tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6585421494649287912024-03-19T22:59:14.474-05:00Living Above MinistriesPennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.comBlogger368125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-73152791704845431042013-07-11T10:28:00.003-05:002013-07-11T10:28:46.450-05:00I've moved!!!Yep! Not only have I moved to Washington State... but I've started a new blog. I will no longer be posting on this blog site. I will keep it up for memories sake... but please come over to my new home<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://watchingthefinches.com/" target="_blank">His Eye is on the Finches</a></div>
<br />
Here I will be writing my normal devotionals - like I used to do so long ago... and sharing our new family adventures of living in the Northwest... versus the deep South!<br />
<br />
I hope you'll come over for a visit. Sign up to receive these updates in your inbox... so grab a cup of coffee and let's get caught up... it'll be like old times!<br />
<br />
Can't wait to see you there!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-26147707223780341692013-05-16T20:05:00.001-05:002013-05-16T20:05:12.404-05:00So... what's going to happen?!<div>
Well, now that perhaps the shock has subsided that I'm getting married - I can answer a few of your questions....</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you don't see the answer to one that you have - feel free to call, text or email. I know that many of you may be wondering why you didn't get a personal call about all of this - and had to find out online. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I can understand your thought and feelings. I would probably feel the same if I were in your shoes. I only ask that you put yourself in mine... if but just for a moment. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Nothing about my life has been conventional since December 30, 2010. Nothing! I have moved, started a new career, found new friends, slept in a different bed, driven new roads, gone back to school and the list goes on. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Why would my life start looking conventional now? I truly believe that God has called me to live an untraditional life. One that requires that I constantly be ready to say, "Yes, Lord! and "Let's go!" all at the same time.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So... without delaying your answers - let's get going on your questions.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i><u>Why so fast?!</u></i></b></div>
<div>
This has not been the most asked out loud and to my face - but I know it's in all of your minds - mainly because I see it all over your faces or in your voice. Please keep in mind that Alan and I have been talking through email, text, phone calls, and FaceTime since September. So while it may seem all of a sudden on the surface - there is so much you've never seen. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In this time we have asked SUPER hard questions of one another. Sure - we asked the fun and simple ones too. We've talked about politics, religion, Jesus, church, children, until we were falling asleep... </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And the more we talked the more we found ourselves missing each other during the day - couldn't wait until we could talk again. So finally we both knew we had to meet in person. We had a feeling it would only get better - but we just didn't know. So in March he flew to Texas. We knew the minute we saw each other - face to face - in the same time zone - that what started in September was the real deal.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
He's been married before - I've been married twice before.... we don't need or desire a big fancy wedding ceremony. We just want to begin our lives together. We know that this is God's way of answer our heart cries - this is God's provision of blessing - and we're ready to get that started.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So... we're getting married in Washington on May 25.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i><u>Are you taking the kids?</u></i></b></div>
<div>
The quick answer to this is no. "Oh my goodness! Why would you do such a thing!" I can hear the outrage through cyberspace now. Please allow me to explain.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I originally wanted to get married in Texas. I thought probably everyone who knew me would need to see this beautiful event as a way to complete their own personal healing - from John's death. But to be honest, the more I talked with friends and family - the more I realized they were more excited about my future with Alan - than they were about a small ceremony.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At the time of Alan's proposal - I already had plane tickets for May 25th and June 1st weekends. Graduation festivities for his son. The more we talked, the more we just wanted to be together.... So here's a crazy - UNTRADITIONAL thought.... why not get married when I come to Washington next - on May 25th?? I know I have to return to Texas to do 2 more weeks of school, but should that really delay anything though?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We both felt a real peace about this decision. Then there's the big question... do you fly the kids up for this ceremony? I could. But let's be reasonable here... I could spend the $1000 to fly them up. We're getting married at noon on Saturday. So - spend all that money for them to then spend the rest of the weekend with their new grandparents. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now - let me just say - they are already super loved and they LOVE Alan's parents. It would be a joy for both sides to hang out.... But our thoughts were to have another Texas ceremony that would be more family/kid focused in June. So this is what we've settled on and we're ALL (Alan, me, Jordan and JP) very thrilled with this plan.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i><u>Where are you going to live?</u></i></b></div>
<div>
Like ripping off a bandaid - let's do this quick - WASHINGTON. I know, I know. Seriously??! I've heard these words more times that I can count. Why? Really? You just got here! I know. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I know because these were all questions that I asked myself. So - I know I must allow you to take the same journey - in your own way, and in your own time. If you're ready to read on - please do so. If you need to take a breather - no worries. I understand.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i><u>Why? </u></i></b>To brag on my future husband for just a bit.... <i>(actually I'll be doing a lot more of this!)</i></div>
<div>
It hasn't always been a given that we would move there. The last time he came to Texas he worked diligently researching his business and other business opportunities here in this area. However, he has experienced much success with his business where it is and it makes much more financial sense to continue there. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We separately made lists (pros and cons) for each location. And wouldn't you know it - his pro list was longer for moving to Texas and my pro list was longer for moving to Washington. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love. That's love in case you missed it!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, yes. We're moving to the beautiful state of Washington - and soon! I've already been asking questions about schools, t-ball leagues, and dance companies. I'm doing my homework folks! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This next part probably still falls under "why?" - but it's more than just why Washington - but rather why Alan too.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I wish you could see my journal (not really, but humor me). It's filled with the cries of my heart. Prayers about being lonely. Prayers about security. Prayers about the future. Tears over things like spiritual leadership in my life. Godly manly examples for both my son and my daughter. Feelings of being overwhelmed by the everyday. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I know on the outside - on the surface - it looks like I'm keeping it all together and that I don't need anyone or any help. Let me just say - what you've been seeing is God at work... big time!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'll never forget standing in Alan's dining room. I had somehow found myself there alone - looking out the window at the beautiful scenery. I'm telling you the Holy Spirit and I had a moment - a very special moment. We reviewed my journal prayers and the Holy Spirit showed me that through Alan, He (the Lord) was checking off my requests, concerns and desires. Then He asked me a very profound - yet simple question...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Was I willing to deny all that God had planned for me over a place. Was I really going to pick a place over a person - God's person for me?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
NO WAY!!! It was then, that I got 100% on board with God and was confident that He would work out all the details. Alan & I knew that if God could divide the sea, drop manna from Heaven, He could work out our distance issue too! Since this moment, I have had complete peace about our move to Washington. I know that God has big plans for us there and we all - all 4 of us are ready to be His servants!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i><u>When? </u></i></b>Well - that's another bandaid moment - June 16th.</div>
<div>
I must teach until June 7th. Then I have committed to VBS at my church and I wouldn't miss it for anything. That takes us to June 14th. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So we've decided to have a Texas ceremony/reception on Saturday June 15th <i>(details to follow)</i> - and then head out June 16th. Could anything be more perfect.... On Mother's Day I get engaged and on Father's Day the kids get a new "dad" in their life! You should see JP - everywhere Alan goes - JP is just a step behind him. He want to sit beside him at meals and copy everything he does. It's just precious! Jordan sneaks out of bed to come say hello on FaceTime. Oh! Sorry - this had nothing to do with moving....</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Please remember that I'm still in the middle of all of my Master's classes - and we need to get back to Washington so I can do my assignments - not in the car on my iPad!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i><u>What will you do there?</u></i></b></div>
<div>
The quick answer to this is substitute at first. I will need to retake every certification test. Since I'm heading to being a school counselor, I may sub until I get my Masters - which will be next summer. Then search for a school counselor position. I even feel that God may be leading me to get my LPC license... those are details still in progress. However, after getting settled in - I might take the certification tests and jump right into WA teaching. I cherish your prayers where these details are concerned.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I do know that after working the past 2.5 years, I enjoy working outside the home. I totally enjoy the social aspect of it all and seeing that I only know a small handful of people - this will be a great way to make friends.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i><u>How do the kids feel about moving?</u></i></b></div>
<div>
Great question! Please remember that they have moved their entire little lives. I wanted for them security. I wanted roots for them. I wanted to stay put for more than a couple of years. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
However... they have never experienced this and wouldn't even begin to know what roots feel like. We spent 4 years in Houston, not even 2 years in New Orleans, 2.5 years now in Lufkin and they are ready for whatever is next!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On Saturday night - our last night in Washington, as I tucked the kids into bed, I asked them if they were ready to go home. They both looked at one another and then agreed - they did not want to go home. They both said, "'we're ready to be in that home" - and pointed out the window towards Alan's house. Just this morning Jordan asked me how long we would live in Washington. I told her I didn't know - but I did know that God was telling us to move. I asked her if she was truly okay with this change.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
She and JP again, looked at each other and said, "We hope we can live there forever!" They are used to change - they are used to meeting new people. What a blessing for this life that God has called us all to!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think this may be enough for now... if you have more questions - please let me know! I'm happy to respond.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I may not call you directly because I'm still:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
working on my Masters,</div>
<div>
doing the laundry</div>
<div>
making all the meals,</div>
<div>
teaching 6 chemistry classes</div>
<div>
taking out the trash, </div>
<div>
breaking up sibling fights,</div>
<div>
yelling at T-Ball games</div>
<div>
dropping off and picking up from dance class</div>
<div>
talking to Alan at night</div>
<div>
cleaning house</div>
<div>
Women's ministry at DABC</div>
<div>
Vacation Bible School.</div>
<div>
and</div>
<div>
and</div>
<div>
and..... so much more.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-45016737495129177892013-05-16T19:04:00.003-05:002013-05-16T19:04:43.781-05:00From Survivor... to Back to the Future<br />
<div class="Body1">
"I
haven't seen you much on Facebook lately, I'm hoping that means you're out
enjoying life!" This was recently
said to me by a dear friend & mentor. </div>
<div class="Body1">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
I have
been a little absent from my social medias lately, but I've really been AWOL
from my blog for sure. So.... I thought
I would take this opportunity to catch everyone up with the happenings of my
life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
My
friends that know me best know that I am shamefully a closet reality show
watcher. I used to watch Survivor
religiously. I'm not sure why I liked
that show... The whole premise of the show is to manipulate everyone you
know. Shortly after John died, I wrote a
blog about being a real Survivor. I guess I couldn't get out of my head that
this was a new category given to me in the obituary. What does it mean to
really be a survivor?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
John
& I used to talk about the future all the time. We used to talk about what
it would look like to be grandparents. We wondered what "retirement"
would look like for a ministry family. Just lots of "future things"
made up our hopes & dreams. However on December 30th, 2010 all thoughts of
future hopes & dreams ceased. I entered into a new world of just being a
survivor. Scratching & clawing to make it through each new day trying to
find victory in the many overwhelming challenges God was allowing me to
experience. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
It's been
a very long 2.5 years! Sometimes it
feels like a lifetime ago, especially when I see how much the kids have grown
since that day. At other times it seems like it was just yesterday that we were
talking about the new year (of 2011). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
Today I'm
a chemistry teacher, certified in every science, ESL, and GT. I'm currently
working on my Master's degree in school counseling. This past August the kids & I finally got
our own house. And yet, I still felt like I was just surviving each day...
Moment by moment. Still no talk of "future things."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
Until.... </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
Yes, until recently. I can't tell you how many people have eluded, hinted,
suggested, asked, about God sending someone new for me to love - someone I
could share life with again. To be
honest I wondered too. Would I be like Ruth in the Bible who was given another
chance at love & happiness or would I be like Anna (Luke 2:36)? Who was married 7 years
and then died a widow at age 84.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
As I
looked around, I wondered if a man that would meet all of my expectations even
existed in Lufkin. Every Sunday, from the choir loft I would do my standard
cursory glance across the sanctuary. Just to see if I noticed a new single man
worshipping with us that day. Each
Sunday brought the same reaction... "He's not here today." <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
However,
all of this changed when a dear friend of mine introduced me to Alan. I know
that if you're my friend on Facebook you've seen us together & may have
wondered... Who is that? Is she dating?!
What is going on? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
(Oh... by the way... to say, "Are you dating?" implies to me that I'm seeing many different people in a casual manner. Let me certainly clarify that I NEVER did this!!!)</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
So... I'm
going to answer some of the questions I know are going through your minds....<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEp1wfWzM546nhSMaLNn1O7aXTuFFxvS2Xtsi6jOzUH7pshObztWDsGfWa7VnU3TxMNY0xP7BZ2FO98imBXwfSZmsLzCpr34BooVp_Re-fJ26dl0oau35S5oAirCha1wg-bJLGfhMoAQ/s1600/IMG_2952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEp1wfWzM546nhSMaLNn1O7aXTuFFxvS2Xtsi6jOzUH7pshObztWDsGfWa7VnU3TxMNY0xP7BZ2FO98imBXwfSZmsLzCpr34BooVp_Re-fJ26dl0oau35S5oAirCha1wg-bJLGfhMoAQ/s320/IMG_2952.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b><i>Where does he
live?<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
Washington
State<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b><i>How did you
meet?<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
We were
introduced back in September. His sister used to live in Lufkin. She & her
family sat right next to my parents every Sunday for years. My sister taught with his sister in Lufkin. After she moved
back to WA, some mutual friends of ours
went to visit her. While there, they met Alan. They then thought we should
"be friends." He contacted me on my birthday! What a nice surprise! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b><i>So is this
serious?<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
Yes! We spent months corresponding - emails,
Facebook, texting, phone calls, and now we FaceTime every day. Much of our
early conversations were like any other relationship, just regular getting to
know you type of stuff. However, given the trials & tragedies we both had
"survived"... We were also sharing how God was healing us &
keeping us in His perfect peace even though our lives looked nothing like we
expected. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<o:p> </o:p>Alan
loves The Lord with all his heart. He has an active & daily walk with God.
We encourage each other often with verses from our own personal prayer times.</div>
<div class="Body1">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
We're
both finding that we do remember what it feels like to laugh. I must admit that when I talk to him my
cheeks often hurt - from all the smiling & laughing. I guess I hadn't
realized that those muscles had become dormant. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b><i>What about your
kids? Do they like him? Does he like them?<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
Yes! I don't have the space here to tell you all
the neat conversations I've had with the kids about him.... But they truly
adore him. They've shared with me that they don't want me to be alone forever.
Yes! He loves them too... Course -
what's not to love? LOL!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3z1ELfwTRidr5zDPZvPnxAalnenFu5iefly6DSlrX1IUQ2ZpBw7BxicGfe40otE3Qdr4wJ8h1EEeDqamQyyKo5W2Ti_PyaYJYhDHDVCfOh_UqfbDXIgYN66Ui4vgaPQcdoQxeqNAzuDE/s1600/IMG_0091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3z1ELfwTRidr5zDPZvPnxAalnenFu5iefly6DSlrX1IUQ2ZpBw7BxicGfe40otE3Qdr4wJ8h1EEeDqamQyyKo5W2Ti_PyaYJYhDHDVCfOh_UqfbDXIgYN66Ui4vgaPQcdoQxeqNAzuDE/s1600/IMG_0091.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3z1ELfwTRidr5zDPZvPnxAalnenFu5iefly6DSlrX1IUQ2ZpBw7BxicGfe40otE3Qdr4wJ8h1EEeDqamQyyKo5W2Ti_PyaYJYhDHDVCfOh_UqfbDXIgYN66Ui4vgaPQcdoQxeqNAzuDE/s320/IMG_0091.jpg" width="240" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1k6n4iwEWnssrP7lyRw4Kqf9DPr2IfxkivkSsev0QoHqazAg4LYGr4poTvd2aVGbcX2k8RqB36XmLZYn04lWpaLBwsPq1kovyrt2jiVs0QJxRO1KvxKPvC3FMdNrjkSpprx0saaeIu8/s1600/IMG_0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1k6n4iwEWnssrP7lyRw4Kqf9DPr2IfxkivkSsev0QoHqazAg4LYGr4poTvd2aVGbcX2k8RqB36XmLZYn04lWpaLBwsPq1kovyrt2jiVs0QJxRO1KvxKPvC3FMdNrjkSpprx0saaeIu8/s320/IMG_0031.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDETEQZCYAYxKfOfXXPvtwzJdbcTaq6a-WxDyl6lQVIej0Dznuv2g7EFAIoBKydOmOxbDQCtlG18v9EcIMhv_23KoCydST0ef6QTKU34-TEjDa-pHfc_93xoI9WfeDcPCjqu3lFH4Pzk/s1600/IMG_0093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDETEQZCYAYxKfOfXXPvtwzJdbcTaq6a-WxDyl6lQVIej0Dznuv2g7EFAIoBKydOmOxbDQCtlG18v9EcIMhv_23KoCydST0ef6QTKU34-TEjDa-pHfc_93xoI9WfeDcPCjqu3lFH4Pzk/s320/IMG_0093.jpg" width="240" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-6bIWVKqv4627lfIjenuleLxAA_Gsqo75YKzBpdqpPUCzI_iimsY0GEbExtomt2d9iZj_dO2YeTf07aIykuy-464dO13B7XkC5DXl59V7yjXav9EUFo_Kw-zz9cqv147Keh7fo9Znag/s1600/IMG_0090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-6bIWVKqv4627lfIjenuleLxAA_Gsqo75YKzBpdqpPUCzI_iimsY0GEbExtomt2d9iZj_dO2YeTf07aIykuy-464dO13B7XkC5DXl59V7yjXav9EUFo_Kw-zz9cqv147Keh7fo9Znag/s320/IMG_0090.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<b><i>So...
Washington?! Seriously? What's going to happen?<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="Body1">
I initially wrote this blog on the plane to Washington - on my way to see him Mother's Day weekend. I wanted to show it to him before posting it, just to make sure he liked what I had said about him.</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
However.....</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
When I got to Washington I received the best Mother's Day present! We arrived Thursday afternoon. We had a great time just hanging out - the four of us. For dinner we had a cookout - so the Franklin kids could meet the Finch kids. Of course his 3 boys are 18, 20. and 24 - and mine are almost 9 and 6.5. Eventually it got dark and it was time for the Franklin children to go to bed. We always stay with Alan's parents when we go there - so I tucked them into bed, gave them their Daddy blessing and kissed them goodnight.</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
Then Alan & I sat out on the back porch to enjoy the beautiful Washington weather and gaze at the stars. Moments later, he was down on one knee - asking me to marry him! It was a beautiful night! Oh, of course I said yes! </div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
I'm very
happy to report that my life is no longer like the realty show Survivor, but
instead... More like the movies... I'm finally heading Back to the Future! We find ourselves talking about "future
things" all the time and what a feeling to know that we both will be doing much more than just surviving... we will be doing our future - TOGETHER!</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5fFH_VH6_x7IT-JRtLfUqmu-SNC2XvNXRkSXiR4JAtZX-w-MhpTUDhk58BVWwDzwSvtB4o3STOdUUBl-PgJ8rE-ohQCicpMfLR_DKVUc_mFs0G-tXzShqgQBHSUJKKRjgXj44SR8zso/s1600/IMG_0037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5fFH_VH6_x7IT-JRtLfUqmu-SNC2XvNXRkSXiR4JAtZX-w-MhpTUDhk58BVWwDzwSvtB4o3STOdUUBl-PgJ8rE-ohQCicpMfLR_DKVUc_mFs0G-tXzShqgQBHSUJKKRjgXj44SR8zso/s320/IMG_0037.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
I know many of you have MANY more questions. You've been lighting up my cell phone with calls, texts and filling my inbox with them all. I'm happy to answer them - but perhaps I can streamline them a bit here.</div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
Stay tuned for Part II - the answers to more questions.....</div>
<div class="Body1">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="Body1">
<br /></div>
<div class="Body1">
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-64489341075362103762013-01-21T06:33:00.001-06:002013-01-21T06:33:36.237-06:00"What do I have in here?"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSaHpVMqSnY9PP02fzrzn-zEWcsgOE64GzhJkrt8rOt8FjNd5NCG9gNvEKmwwYaO4DxY995SPf9uOpkZfNKj0L0fX0YQC9uinFA8nsZus_ktDK2aCO8ypuziQ7JFn5ewnu-TUDS4Rihyk/s1600/teacher+training.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSaHpVMqSnY9PP02fzrzn-zEWcsgOE64GzhJkrt8rOt8FjNd5NCG9gNvEKmwwYaO4DxY995SPf9uOpkZfNKj0L0fX0YQC9uinFA8nsZus_ktDK2aCO8ypuziQ7JFn5ewnu-TUDS4Rihyk/s200/teacher+training.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Today is a Teacher In-Service Day at school. My kids get to enjoy a lazy Monday, while I learn how I can better equip my students with updated learning tools.<br />
<br />
I'm actually looking forward to today. It's all about technology - stuff I absolutely love!<br />
<br />
However, on most days as my students enter my classroom a common question they ask me is this, "What do I have in here?"<br />
<br />
By this they mean, what is their current average. Sometimes they need to know so they can participate in extracurricular activities, sometimes they need to know for their parents-sake, most times they are just curious.<br />
<br />
There is no way I can remember over 100 students' averages, so I have a place at the back of the room where I periodically post their grades. Funny, even though they are posted, they still find comfort in asking me this question.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bfqbWYV3cHaKgD1ePmXkxFpfz8fyfefIP2pH3RZaWj3Sc9kAIANVr5WPerSN1lJ5uE64jM_qgzuLSZK1nNFzuXbDIeQpm80Y3-vfwrclTotxY4OUAxrquCWfur215ON_yiyQJp38cgA/s1600/report+card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bfqbWYV3cHaKgD1ePmXkxFpfz8fyfefIP2pH3RZaWj3Sc9kAIANVr5WPerSN1lJ5uE64jM_qgzuLSZK1nNFzuXbDIeQpm80Y3-vfwrclTotxY4OUAxrquCWfur215ON_yiyQJp38cgA/s200/report+card.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The grades that I post reflect simple daily grades, projects and of course major tests. The daily grades are not worth as much as the tests. Sometimes I think they try to figure out how many good daily grades they need to make up for bad tests. LOL!<br />
<br />
I absolutely LOVE my One Year Bible. I've read it over and over ever since 1999. God shows me something new from familiar stories every year. Recently I read about Abraham and Isaac - and their journey to Mount Moriah. <br />
<br />
Genesis chapter 22 starts out like this, "After these things, God tested Abraham and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here am I."<br />
<br />
Then the Lord commanded Abraham to sacrifice his son! We all know the end of this beautiful story. Abraham passed his test with flying colors.<br />
<br />
I know the Lord has had me in a season of testing. He took the love of my life and everyday I struggle. Every day I miss him terribly. <br />
<br />
As soon as I read this verse about God testing Abraham. I thought about the testing the Lord is requiring of me. And, I guess it was just because I hear this so often, I asked the Lord,<br />
<br />
"What do I have in here?" Am I passing? Am I passing enough to enjoy a few extracurricular things in life?<br />
<br />
I know I've failed some daily grades. I know of my shortcomings - getting upset with the kids over small things, feeling lonely and forgotten. But hopefully I'm performing well on the major stuff.<br />
<br />
After each major test I remind my students that I arrive early every morning and stay late every afternoon for tutoring. I practically beg them to come and see me. I know that if they will give me 30 minutes I could help them raise their grade.<br />
<br />
You know what? My God does the same for me. He begs me to meet with him every morning. I know that by spending time with Him I can raise my grade with Him too.<br />
<br />
So, how about you? Have you asked the Lord if you're passing the tests He's given you. Just ask. He'll tell you. And if the answer is not what you want - He's always available for extra tutoring!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-33849310420453151402012-12-30T07:42:00.003-06:002012-12-30T07:42:39.041-06:00Way More Miles!December 30th. What a date! It's after Christmas and not quite January 1st. It should be just a relaxing day in any life. Closing out the old and about to bring in the new. <br />
<br />
Yet for me it was a day that my entire life changed forever. I have to admit it seemed like it was little like hell on Earth at first.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-1zyPtT5oMZfG-VDVqqmvelm1RXj5VLreok_3ynVFqUQBwvN30weCiinF8fQDNFW_R5uj7JD9eh-fXRcgGhaFK4VvMWKZHMn6tnq-uEsICCgOL0-GJ_90kJsjNr8m7EjqsQrKIydX5Y/s1600/SANY0244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-1zyPtT5oMZfG-VDVqqmvelm1RXj5VLreok_3ynVFqUQBwvN30weCiinF8fQDNFW_R5uj7JD9eh-fXRcgGhaFK4VvMWKZHMn6tnq-uEsICCgOL0-GJ_90kJsjNr8m7EjqsQrKIydX5Y/s200/SANY0244.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
5pm on December 30, 2010 my hero husband stepped into his forever Home... Heaven. We had made many moves in our short-lived married life, but we always made them together. Here was a move he made without me.<br />
<br />
I had so many things I wanted to say to him and yet did not get the chance. I had so many questions - really about how to handle his death, and could not talk with him.<br />
<br />
Today, 2 years later, I'm leaving to go to Dallas, TX to do something I've never done before - run a half marathon! I chose this race, at this time, on this day for a very specific reason. I want it to reflect the miles the Lord has carried me since John moved to Heaven.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYm14tkEYd_H765zZl7vZ_7pdJukX5f9MF0ZBfvGPdkOsxRPowbp4wnM_OBDnCVbN7UmU8eipSldjr9eb2LPAEXeOmeHiFDSsFv5Uwkqoj1AKo8DjfpxYtGpHTJoqIm7dWzzGJAT_m_JU/s1600/13.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYm14tkEYd_H765zZl7vZ_7pdJukX5f9MF0ZBfvGPdkOsxRPowbp4wnM_OBDnCVbN7UmU8eipSldjr9eb2LPAEXeOmeHiFDSsFv5Uwkqoj1AKo8DjfpxYtGpHTJoqIm7dWzzGJAT_m_JU/s200/13.1.jpg" width="200" /></a>Oh the miles! I've heard it said many many times that our time here on Earth is preparing us for Heaven. As I've been training for my race - I can see how my training is going to get me through and allow me to complete my goal. One day as I was running, it began to rain and rain and rain! I somehow ended up on a very busy road that had very little shoulder. So cars were splashing huge amounts of water on me as the Lord was dumping water on me as well. I've checked the weather report for tomorrow and it's supposed to... yep... RAIN.<br />
<br />
I'm so glad I've trained in these conditions - otherwise I would be freaking out! One day it was freezing... but I ran in layered clothes and trained in how to remove them as I got hot. Yes, it is also supposed to be about 38 degrees. <br />
<br />
Cold & Rainy. No problem. I'm prepared.<br />
<br />
But... how in the world does living in a world without the man God gave me, without my children having a father prepare us for Heaven - a perfect place filled with unspeakable beauty?<br />
<br />
I have to be honest - I've only been on this race - I've only run these miles - 2 years - and I'm still trying to get my head around what God wants of me now. There is still so much I don't know about running. You see, I'm not really a runner. I'm just one over-determined lady.<br />
<br />
I think it's very similar with God. Most of the time I don't feel very saint-like. Yet the Bible says that I am one. I know that I have been bought with a price and that my whole life belonged not to John - but to God. I am over-determined to live my life for Him. If He says this place here is a training ground for Heaven then I must trust Him and run for the prize every day.<br />
<br />
As I run tomorrow I have a few verses that are going to keep me running... mainly because I know He wants me to keep running in life until it's my turn to go Home:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>1 Cor 9:24</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>"Do you not know that in a race all the runner run, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>but only one receives the prize? </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>So run that you may obtain it."</i></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Joshua 1:9</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."</i></b></div>
<br />
And finally - no matter what happens tomorrow on the 13.1 mile journey that I'm running or in the miles that I run in life... God is for me!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Psalm 56:9</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>"Then my enemies will turn back </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>in the day when I call. </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>This is know, that God is for me."</i></b></div>
<br />
Babe, I don't even know if you'll know or even see what I'm doing tomorrow. But I do know that the Lord sees. I pray that He gives me strength, stamina and good health to complete this goal. I want to show our children that no matter what happens in life - God can carry you way more miles than we could ever imagine! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-9518925104008504342012-10-03T05:34:00.002-05:002012-10-03T05:37:42.615-05:00Can I go with?Have you noticed that we live in a world of shortened phrases and that abbreviations have replaced almost complete sentences?<br />
<br />
My children have a favorite and it seems like they say it all the time... "Can I go with?"<br />
<br />
They say this for almost every place I go... for instance..<br />
<br />
Me: "Kids, I'm going out to the car to look for something."<br />
Them: "Can I go with?"<br />
<br />
Really?<br />
<br />
Me: "I'll be right back... I'm going inside the house, I need to go potty."<br />
Them: "Can I go with?"<br />
<br />
Not really. But almost! Most times, it's not even about where I'm going - they just "want to go with." They could tack that on the end to wherever I'm going - whenever I say I'm going someplace. <br />
<br />
I want to explain to them that I can be out of their sight for one second and they will be just fine. However, I also know that they may fear losing another parent - so I do my best to have patience when they want to CONSTANTLY be with me.<br />
<br />
I saw something in scripture today that really blessed my heart. So often we wonder if God is really "with" us. We wonder if at times He's busy with someone else and has forgotten all about us.<br />
<br />
Check out what He told Jeremiah....<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Jeremiah 1:7-8 (ESV)</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>But the Lord said to me,</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>"Do not say, 'I am only a youth';</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>for to all to whom I send you, you shall go,</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>and whatever I command you, you shall speak. </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Do not be afraid of them, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>for I am with you to deliver you,</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>declares the Lord."</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
After reading this verse, I just had to stop. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"I am with you - to deliver you."</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Almost daily I need some type of deliverance. From dishes, laundry, quarreling children, bills....</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And He's right here with me. Perhaps it's just a moment of silence - just to catch my breath. This would be a temporary deliverance.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
However I saw this morning that He is ever present - ever with me - to bring me complete and total deliverance - to see Him face to face someday. And I need Him with me to make it to that day!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's really not a matter of has God forgotten me - but rather... when God says, "Penny, can I go with?" I need to say, "Yes Lord!"</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For when He comes with - He brings deliverance! Praise God for His temporary and complete deliverance in my life!</div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-37787771279376541432012-08-10T07:19:00.002-05:002012-08-10T07:19:11.814-05:00Loose ClothesYesterday I did something that my Mom always used to do - once a year - with me & my sister... we went school clothes shopping in Houston!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYA72W5zNvz8zK0nucl7VXJqQj4RFNm5jrAd2q9c7OAUhR5ZNvb-QBonWHt4PSs2K8U-mwqI5ilnwunsAbuAxUNV6_pxEzPEgWShe5Vk0g4dyiOwSIIKZeJGncgPvUnIrUS6DmoIyt9o/s1600/mall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYA72W5zNvz8zK0nucl7VXJqQj4RFNm5jrAd2q9c7OAUhR5ZNvb-QBonWHt4PSs2K8U-mwqI5ilnwunsAbuAxUNV6_pxEzPEgWShe5Vk0g4dyiOwSIIKZeJGncgPvUnIrUS6DmoIyt9o/s200/mall.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
For the first time every in Jordan's school history - no uniforms are required! So instead of robotically purchasing 5 different colored polo shirts and 5 khaki shorts - I took the kids to The Woodlands to shop for fun school clothes!<br />
<br />
We had a blast! Of course the kids learned what the word "appropriate" means - crazy shorts, glitter shirts will not last past the first wear, and rain boots are not "school shoes".<br />
<br />
At the end of our shopping - I asked the kids if I could have a turn. So my Mom very graciously watched the kids for me while I went to try on "just a few" things.<br />
<br />
Now here's where the story takes a bit of a sad turn...<br />
<br />
For the past 2 weeks I've been working out like a crazy woman. Not only am I on a serious marathon training schedule - but I've also added INSANITY (by Shawn T) workouts to my days. I'm kind of putting myself through my own version of "two-a-days".<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdGvTpb1WGEJP-LNLtOMIOFdISZCAqBOSkN3MTXMEygEnyRjGDrlgKRvM6Lefb7KXzyxsAbL-04SGvu4bzctKejTHDQH49BHRu_fWIGErwGj6aahyV3OlA7yrfnDsJ2z1YrmPz9PkH6o/s1600/charts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdGvTpb1WGEJP-LNLtOMIOFdISZCAqBOSkN3MTXMEygEnyRjGDrlgKRvM6Lefb7KXzyxsAbL-04SGvu4bzctKejTHDQH49BHRu_fWIGErwGj6aahyV3OlA7yrfnDsJ2z1YrmPz9PkH6o/s320/charts.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">charts of my different workouts - with stats</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Before going shopping I checked my stats - I've lost 9 pounds and 1 inch in my waist and legs! Yay! Right? <br />
<br />
I wonder - how many pounds lost would equal a new size - or<b><u> loose clothes</u></b>? I hate women's sizing! <br />
<br />
Let's just say I was not the size I was hoping I would be after such loss. <br />
<br />
But you know what - these are just physical clothes. I know one day I will reach my fitness and weight goals - in time. However, there is another fitness and size goal that I have set my mind to and it has nothing to do with something I would find in Macy's!!<br />
<br />
The Bible speaks of another kind of loose clothing!<br />
<br />
Check this out....<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Psalm 30:11 (ESV)</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>You have loosed my sackcloth </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>and clothed me with gladness, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>that my glory may sing </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Your praise and not be silent.</i></b></div>
<br />
Did you catch that?! I'll exchange loose clothes for gladness! How exciting!!!<br />
<br />
I have many fitness goals - but did you hear the greater ones found here?<br />
<br />
1. For mourning to turn into dancing<br />
2. Loose clothing exchanged for clothes of gladness<br />
3. To not be silent about my Lord<br />
<br />
One day my size 12 clothes are going to be too big... one day. And believe me, you'll hear about it! <br />
<br />
However, the desire of my heart would be that you would hear about how great my God is more than something I find in a store. That others around me would know that no matter what tragedy I experience, my God is big enough to loosen my sad clothes & replace them with glad ones... and that I would one day dance again!<br />
<br />
Are you tracking your progress for these kinds of loose clothing? Where do you stand?<br />
<br />
I must admit - I'm still on the journey - but working towards it every day!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-21114458680847425572012-08-03T08:30:00.001-05:002012-08-03T08:30:46.741-05:00Even If...I posted this on my church website today...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial Black';">Even If...</span></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
This morning I was reading about Josiah in the Old Testament. Josiah was an amazing king. He became king at the age of 8 years old and by age 16 he was cleaning house! Meaning, he truly began to seek the Lord with all his heart. He put into action what he felt in his heart.</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
Most of you know the story of Josiah. He was the young king who commissioned the leaders to clean out the temple. In this cleaning they found "a book". Yes, it was the Book of the Law! King Josiah listened to the words read to him from this "book" and was devastated at how far the people had drifted from the Lord. He tore his clothes in response to what he heard.</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
He inquired the wise counsel of a prophetess, Huldah. She did confirm that the devastation that was prophesied in the Bible would indeed come. However, she gave this word of hope to Josiah...</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<i><b>2 Chronicles 34: 26-28 (ESV)</b></i></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<i><b>"But to the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord....</b></i></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<i><b>Regarding the words that you have heard, because your heart was tender</b></i></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<i><b>and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and its inhabitants,</b></i></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<i><b>and you have humbled yourself before Me and have torn your clothes and wept before Me,</b></i></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<i><b>I also have heard you, declares the Lord. Behold I will gather you to you fathers,</b></i></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<i><b>and you shall be gathered to your grave in peace</b></i></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<i><b>and your eyes shall not see all the disaster that I will bring upon this place and its inhabitants."</b></i></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
<u><b>Lesson #1:</b></u> We too need to seek the Lord with all our heart and humble ourselves before God. In fact I see a little list forming here:</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
1. Seek the wise counsel of the Lord</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
2. Be humbled at His word</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
3. Hear His Word</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
4. Weep before the Lord</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
5. Demonstrate how we have messed up</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
6. Make your heart tender toward the Lord</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
And look at what God did for Josiah in response: Peace. His eyes would not see all the disaster that was planned! What an amazing promise. </div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
Wouldn't you like to hear something like that from God? "Humble yourself before me, and you will see no disaster!" </div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
Where can I get in line to "humble myself"? I'm totally up for seeing no disaster!!!</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
<u><b>Lesson #2: </b></u> We can totally copy Josiah's obedience to God's Word - but we need to allow God to do an<span style="color: red;"><u><i> individual </i></u></span>work in our lives. This was God's promise for Josiah. Even if God has a different plan for you - TRUST HIM!!!</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
I know we have all seen more disaster in our lives than we thought we would see. And I would imagine there's even more to come. However, I believe that we are still to follow the list above - seek Him, be humbled before Him, hear His word and TRUST.</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
I heard a song this week that illustrates no matter what - we can still praise Him. I know that many of you are praying for a miracle to come in your life. You've been praying for this relief from disaster for quite some time. It could be for physical healing, emotional healing, financial relief... What if no relief comes? What then? What if in the midst of following the list above - we still see disaster? What happens to our faith?</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
It would be really easy to get mad and be jealous of Josiah. However, we must belief the truth - that God is for us!</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><i><b>Psalm 56:9 (ESV)</b></i></span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">
</span></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;"><i><b>This I know, that God is for me.</b></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">
Listen to this song and let it minister to you today as is has done for me.</div>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/HqOkZiOb9u0" width="310"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-30836323855277539682012-07-25T08:40:00.000-05:002012-07-25T08:40:00.534-05:00My Multitude<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuS6sSHF68Cn9vy8vemLUaOdce4luBL4QH4F3hItsrEZo1iDh_HOtWXN4X3YRWjXpa8tCV1yBVXrFlr8ard8K5DqkYOhookD-QlXO2kuhtAc-fx4s5F1-y-Er3iED2sDcdNhr1lh3Kl4/s1600/chess+pieces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuS6sSHF68Cn9vy8vemLUaOdce4luBL4QH4F3hItsrEZo1iDh_HOtWXN4X3YRWjXpa8tCV1yBVXrFlr8ard8K5DqkYOhookD-QlXO2kuhtAc-fx4s5F1-y-Er3iED2sDcdNhr1lh3Kl4/s200/chess+pieces.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
One week. There's only 1 more full week of July remaining. I don't know about you, but when August starts - my mind is directed towards school stuff. <br />
<br />
Next week I'm going to start working in my classroom. I've already been salivating at the new fun school supplies. This morning I looked up the dates for our Tax Free Weekend to plan some "school clothes" shopping!<br />
<br />
As I sat down to pray and read my Bible this morning, I asked the Lord to direct my focus on Him. The list of things I wanted to pray about were - in my mind... GINORMOUS!<br />
<br />
Don't you ever long for simple peace on all sides? No drama. God gave this to some of the kings in the Old Testament. This verse is King Asa of Judah speaking...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>2 Chronicles 14:7 (b) (ESV)</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>We have sought Him and He has given us peace on every side.</i></b></div>
<br />
"Peace on every side" - can you even imagine a life like that? I would be thrilled with just a <b><u>DAY</u></b> like that!<br />
<br />
So in my Bible reading - I just stopped and asked the Lord for "peace on every side".<br />
<br />
But... then I read further... I quickly learned that King Asa still had to fight. And he didn't just fight small armies - check out his prayer when he was faced with an army of a million enemy soldiers!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>2 Chronicles 14:11 (ESV)</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>And Asa cried to the Lord his God, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>"O Lord, there is none like You to help, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>between the mighty and the weak. Help us, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>O Lord our God, for we rely on You, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>and in Your name we have come against this multitude. </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>O Lord, You are our God, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>let not man prevail against You."</i></b></div>
<br />
Want to know the outcome? God allowed King Asa and his army to leave not one of those million enemy soldiers alive! They were allowed to plunder a ton of stuff from the enemy too! They won!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
But they still had to fight.</div>
<br />
Now, I'm so thankful I'm not facing a million soldiers with weapons. But... in my prayer journal, I made a list of my own <i>"multitude." </i>The things that are staring back at me - the things that I'm facing.<br />
<br />
Here's just an excerpt: raising Jordan & JP without their Dad, new job, finances, marathon training, JP's salvation, will God bring another "someone" in my life again, many other questions about my future....<br />
<br />
This list can be overwhelming! I'm sure we all have our own <i>"multitude"</i> that we face every day.<br />
<br />
I took King Asa's prayer and made it my own this morning. I may not have all the answers for <i><u>my multitude</u></i> - but in His name I can come against them all and you can too!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-59220540709495845332012-07-11T07:39:00.001-05:002012-07-11T07:39:51.437-05:00NewnessesDo you ever long for just a regular day? A regular-no-drama season for your life? The kind of time in your life where you know what you're doing, you know all the answers and life is predictable and manageable?<br />
<br />
This sounds kind of dreamy to me! However, it seems at every turn, I still have new adventures ever before me. <br />
<br />
As many of you have heard... I have a new room in my house. I realized the more Jordan was growing that she didn't need to share a room with her younger brother any longer. Therefore, I gave her my room. We fixed it all up - nice and girly. I updated JP's room a bit with some Spiderman accessories.<br />
<br />
Then, with the help of my family and some very strong guys from my church we moved all my stuff to the upstairs (converted attic) huge room! I love it!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhb-DQwFh_K0wpuljWJbBqLNBOtbEExnV-5Zxg-7SwonJBXcIWG9WuHOV4FlhB3Hh2p7aRQJhyphenhyphenqHtKI-O0i53cuZFrq6bfjZrKLZpm4IgCmUEz_cqgHMenJYDL1vvb427yfSE6UWTKbM/s1600/Image+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhb-DQwFh_K0wpuljWJbBqLNBOtbEExnV-5Zxg-7SwonJBXcIWG9WuHOV4FlhB3Hh2p7aRQJhyphenhyphenqHtKI-O0i53cuZFrq6bfjZrKLZpm4IgCmUEz_cqgHMenJYDL1vvb427yfSE6UWTKbM/s320/Image+1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new bed! <br />(really my old bed that I just now got back!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqigiYyLACcbirNToG_dKP-L5AwsXiyLhpF99tTwWU4UlWb9Bet9SkdMFyOPLH-D1mcuMzBGph96yrkGSN6S9erYoMehJBbu-YCTXVP4n1HMVbAKYXWhOiCfv20dS1NdkAPMn0BRgLqCs/s1600/Image+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqigiYyLACcbirNToG_dKP-L5AwsXiyLhpF99tTwWU4UlWb9Bet9SkdMFyOPLH-D1mcuMzBGph96yrkGSN6S9erYoMehJBbu-YCTXVP4n1HMVbAKYXWhOiCfv20dS1NdkAPMn0BRgLqCs/s320/Image+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new vanity area! Cool huh?!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
In just a few short weeks, I'll be embarking on another new thing... Chemistry Teacher at a new school district. I'm super excited and nervous all at the same time.<br />
<br />
During my prayer time this morning I wrote in my journal about all the "newnesses" that I'm experiencing. I read a verse that confirmed just how close I need to be to the Lord to make it through all these new adventures.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Psalm 9:9-10 (ESV)</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>a stronghold in times of trouble. </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>And those who know Your name </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>put their trust in You,</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>for You, O Lord, have not forsaken </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>those who seek You.</i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
I love the end where David reaffirms that the Lord will not forsake those who seek the Lord.<br />
<br />
I realized that I have a lot of seeking the Lord to do in all my newnesses. I know this is probably not real word - "newnesses" - but it doesn't mean I don't still have these in my life.<br />
<br />
I bet you have some too. So how do we deal with them all? David encourages us to know the Name of the Lord, put our trust in Him, and seek Him. As a result - He will not forsake us!<br />
<br />
I made a list of as many of my newnesses that are currently in my life - and committed to seek the Lord in them all. What will you do with your newnesses?<br />
<br />
I love you all dearly!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-56818524437864222892012-07-09T08:20:00.000-05:002012-07-09T08:20:12.875-05:00Hope for the Charred RemainsI have so many things to say on my blog today! <br />
<br />
For starters, I really have missed writing on my blog. New adventures and crazy new schedules got the best of me. I like for everything to have it's proper place - especially my schedule. And for the past 18 months I've been in some sort of survival mode where tyranny of the urgent took over my life.<br />
<br />
I would like to tell you that I'm getting that under control and all will be as it should be soon - but to be perfectly honest - I'm enjoying a restful, undisciplined summer. In about 3-4 short weeks I'm going to need to turn my mind and my heart to discipline but for now I'm soaking up all that this summer has to offer!<br />
<br />
Having said that... let's move on to this past weekend. It was John's birthday and we seem to have created a beautiful tradition of spending the weekend with the Barnabas Contagion and their families in Bastrop. These people are truly amazing! I could go on and on about these folks I call family - but I don't think there are enough words!<br />
<br />
On Saturday afternoon around 5pm - the hottest part of the day - I decided I wanted to take the mile hike to see the deer stand where John breathed his last. Too many times I close my eyes and wonder what the scene looked like on that day. I'm not a hunter, but I've seen many different types of stands, and I wanted to clear up as many of the unknowns in my head as I could.<br />
<br />
As it turned out - all of the men that were there - came with me. As we hiked we recalled many fun memories of John. Some remembered great things he used to say, some shared really cooky things he used to do - it was really a nice walk.<br />
<br />
It was filled with many emotions, because as most remember, last summer much of Bastrop burned in a fire. My friends' 200-acre property was completely burned! Their house, John's tree and a few other precious spots were miraculously saved.<br />
<br />
So on our walk we saw many many charred trees, holes in the ground were huge trees once towered the property, and washed away roads. However, we also saw more sunflowers than I've ever seen in one place! The green over-growth was up to our knees! Green leaves were found on several trees!<br />
<br />
While the layout of the property looked completely different - it was still very beautiful. Even though there was devastation all around, it was still very peaceful. And as I walked, anxiously awaiting when we would arrive at John's final spot on Earth, I took in the beauty of it all.<br />
<br />
I thought about how our lives are much like "The Bastrop" (as Jordan used to call this place). Jordan asked me as we arrived on Friday if this place would ever grow back. As we hiked you couldn't help but see the new growth that God was allowing to happen. <br />
<br />
Green amongst the charred remains.<br />
<br />
Isn't this just like our own lives? Devastating events happen to us all. And perhaps leave us a bit charred in places. But with His love, strength, and light - new growth will appear. Yes, it may look different and strange. Yes, scars and evidence of a tragedy may remain - but if we embrace His plan and accept His changes for our lives - we too can experience peace and beauty again.<br />
<br />
We can have beautiful green spots sprouting all around our charred edges! We too can "grow back"!<br />
<br />
I thought I might just share a few pictures from my weekend at The Bastrop.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCsubsFfYUJt5DoP-h72tRoKokt4-Ho3sk-cctpiEa1-s7zABpAgxqomeSpyL9l41NMm_rFGIQIJHzaiR3OkzEtTKF_jIiGH5fOmql5AfAessDPFpFMorUx0_RQYuBimd7xyfZte2sRTw/s1600/IMG_2146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCsubsFfYUJt5DoP-h72tRoKokt4-Ho3sk-cctpiEa1-s7zABpAgxqomeSpyL9l41NMm_rFGIQIJHzaiR3OkzEtTKF_jIiGH5fOmql5AfAessDPFpFMorUx0_RQYuBimd7xyfZte2sRTw/s320/IMG_2146.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flowers on the hike</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg727p-IJ7F_KR5UVtoczMDku6ciHfhrWAUSOTnaTMDO0BfyVTUOfP8Qjv5hCA3XuKTGw2WQMdVDS37PmAmGSkklYjGcXrxXjesHFNoa2k-6iyLz7HcwDzc1lfd5VJNPjboV9zT44ytySo/s1600/IMG_2148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg727p-IJ7F_KR5UVtoczMDku6ciHfhrWAUSOTnaTMDO0BfyVTUOfP8Qjv5hCA3XuKTGw2WQMdVDS37PmAmGSkklYjGcXrxXjesHFNoa2k-6iyLz7HcwDzc1lfd5VJNPjboV9zT44ytySo/s1600/IMG_2148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdF4mq2EiiLdSd_lqCC0L41a8pBi5EWmZTQQojIZRiG4l4eG2xP9h_JJvzCqJwdskENdseTwfi9YayMmmqFkQGwC0jCJznO5JXtJDvSSfCCK-j-mzi0e6oPLQ3gy3iU-yLDIbmvvlBlaQ/s1600/IMG_2147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdF4mq2EiiLdSd_lqCC0L41a8pBi5EWmZTQQojIZRiG4l4eG2xP9h_JJvzCqJwdskENdseTwfi9YayMmmqFkQGwC0jCJznO5JXtJDvSSfCCK-j-mzi0e6oPLQ3gy3iU-yLDIbmvvlBlaQ/s320/IMG_2147.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful berries were found everywhere!!<br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSnR1r3cDQ3anUHKbV4Wa0iySgqYeMbL2PE3J4OhpXpXivtuY0apBdW6Nhdrexw0SjrrLZEtvQ-T5n9lRsgTWN-DCHQpvwi4EAxpgyx36UcggT7KEKJ8Wi8m-VEiqUHJY5XxxKe0BoNdw/s1600/IMG_2151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSnR1r3cDQ3anUHKbV4Wa0iySgqYeMbL2PE3J4OhpXpXivtuY0apBdW6Nhdrexw0SjrrLZEtvQ-T5n9lRsgTWN-DCHQpvwi4EAxpgyx36UcggT7KEKJ8Wi8m-VEiqUHJY5XxxKe0BoNdw/s320/IMG_2151.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep holes left by completely burned trees. <br />The small holes were where the roots once were.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg727p-IJ7F_KR5UVtoczMDku6ciHfhrWAUSOTnaTMDO0BfyVTUOfP8Qjv5hCA3XuKTGw2WQMdVDS37PmAmGSkklYjGcXrxXjesHFNoa2k-6iyLz7HcwDzc1lfd5VJNPjboV9zT44ytySo/s1600/IMG_2148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg727p-IJ7F_KR5UVtoczMDku6ciHfhrWAUSOTnaTMDO0BfyVTUOfP8Qjv5hCA3XuKTGw2WQMdVDS37PmAmGSkklYjGcXrxXjesHFNoa2k-6iyLz7HcwDzc1lfd5VJNPjboV9zT44ytySo/s320/IMG_2148.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hike to the deer stand. Notice all the green!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxgXVYsKk8jmCeQbkwcxJCb1f2RPn2ZW3I9DAXfl-WOUQFPM5kjKhFK9vk3d67L83pGOLh5VBQ3uGV33OMpvUtYE3qvr561VtjPQQtTWu_X0AqsQ2TCsUHOWhmJK4xjUv7-t10H8a4Nw/s1600/Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxgXVYsKk8jmCeQbkwcxJCb1f2RPn2ZW3I9DAXfl-WOUQFPM5kjKhFK9vk3d67L83pGOLh5VBQ3uGV33OMpvUtYE3qvr561VtjPQQtTWu_X0AqsQ2TCsUHOWhmJK4xjUv7-t10H8a4Nw/s320/Image.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here it is. You can't see the stand. <br />But this is the tree where John said goodbye to this Earth.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvUErQOPDfQn8MjCnOlUML36q6rcKWc-noRqVCc8BZFwNFFAwyDWLs_u-2ys7jvTlTwYLkaRZSg-ggA-iB0_31h9kcOvWjxk8oO5eIFgKDIFLClcDbbdX1PbZQyX4wfcFRFjklmQoEfeQ/s1600/IMG_2156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvUErQOPDfQn8MjCnOlUML36q6rcKWc-noRqVCc8BZFwNFFAwyDWLs_u-2ys7jvTlTwYLkaRZSg-ggA-iB0_31h9kcOvWjxk8oO5eIFgKDIFLClcDbbdX1PbZQyX4wfcFRFjklmQoEfeQ/s320/IMG_2156.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The scene leaving The Bastrop.<br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityyPCMZ7_3cVcEZdoAUOLaccLjDjfiaV6WxoAfBRfh5lnR5XPtY5SHG9AFYeSS1rlopGxL84EE3G_Ht0XyzoXTC16Bbi6thkG7pQDuF-ryQhzeXBB1HhMo5lLBqn8jTkRXwSN8Iqd6eo/s1600/IMG_2152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityyPCMZ7_3cVcEZdoAUOLaccLjDjfiaV6WxoAfBRfh5lnR5XPtY5SHG9AFYeSS1rlopGxL84EE3G_Ht0XyzoXTC16Bbi6thkG7pQDuF-ryQhzeXBB1HhMo5lLBqn8jTkRXwSN8Iqd6eo/s320/IMG_2152.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was the last thing John got to do with the kids.<br />I'm so thankful this tire swing - hanging from a tree - survived!<br />What fun memories for the kids! <br />This is their favorite spot on the property!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>
</div>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-62846103656599685662012-06-08T06:22:00.001-05:002012-06-08T06:22:14.655-05:00Coming in for a landing...This week has been filled with an awesome week of Vacation Bible School! As of yesterday we had 17 professions of faith! God is so wonderful!<br />
<br />
I had the humbling experience of leading a little 4th grader to the Lord on Tuesday! What a way to start the week!<br />
<br />
Today we wrap things up and although I'm ready to get some rest... I'm going to be sad to let these precious little lives go...<br />
<br />
Please continue to pray for these 17 young kids as they continue to grow in Christ this summer. <br />
<br />
Next week is a whole new summer adventure... Jordan & I are going to GA Camp @ Pineywoods Baptist Encampment. We're both super excited!!!<br />
<br />
(Oh! But before we go.... Jordan has her very first Dance Recital on Saturday! - be looking for pictures of that soon!)<br />
<br />
I thought it was only fitting to put up our VBS theme song as my Friday Song. (if it's going to be in my head all week - I might as well pass on the joy to you guys! LOL)<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/TB_Yt-mONIo" width="272"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-76841640859115530172012-06-01T13:27:00.001-05:002012-06-01T13:27:44.278-05:0010 years...It's Friday. The normal time of the week when I post a song.<br />
<br />
This Friday is very different. Today I should have been soaking up some beautiful rays on an amazing beach holding hands with the love of my life. That was the plan anyway. John and I so very much wanted to take a second honeymoon to some tropical location to celebrate our 10 Year Wedding Anniversary.<br />
<br />
Apparently God had different plans. I still cannot believe we're not holding hands today. Many days I look down at my empty hands and wonder... "What do I do with them as I'm walking into a store.... as I walk into church.." <br />
<br />
Here's what I do know though.... I know God is holding me. I know He never gives up on me - even though many times in the last 17 months I've wanted to do just that.<br />
<br />
Today - to celebrate a beautiful relationship - even though we must live in different locations - I thought it was only fitting to share one of my favorites of John's songs.<br />
<br />
The Way. Some of my favorite lines...<br />
<br />
I love the way You take me by the hand - lead me on. <br />
Love the way You hold me to Your heart to love me Lord. <br />
I love the way You lead me to Your teachings for my life,<br />
I love the way You don't give up, though I give up on the fight.<br />
The way You love me through it all, the way You died to save my soul,<br />
I stand in awe of You.<br />
<br />
(if you listen all the way through - you'll hear him talk)<br />
<br />
Enjoy your Friday!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/EDoZMggGwBo" width="275"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-85917126295402148922012-05-27T06:49:00.003-05:002012-05-27T06:49:43.703-05:00His Word SundayThe first Sunday of Summer 2012...<br />
<br />
It feels good. Yesterday, I got to spend quality time with my kids. It was wonderful! We went swimming, washed the car, had lunch at Chick-fil-A, and watched a movie.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-dAIJVCIsZQ2AYTa8Mhws3II1fE0lb-thbKlnuL_QiEjDSCVuTuqBzqYtfKBwcK8uBPCJw_K4T2NjUFIdCiUaM7JA_i8VzYB2n9oARKno5_TkTQjeJi_gJnufNT8vZRycEZwECOPdcA/s1600/IMG_1833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-dAIJVCIsZQ2AYTa8Mhws3II1fE0lb-thbKlnuL_QiEjDSCVuTuqBzqYtfKBwcK8uBPCJw_K4T2NjUFIdCiUaM7JA_i8VzYB2n9oARKno5_TkTQjeJi_gJnufNT8vZRycEZwECOPdcA/s320/IMG_1833.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to a summer that is not consumed with school stuff - preparing for a new career. I am so thankful for all the Lord has brought my way in the past 17 months.<br />
<br />
I thanked the Lord for His ever-present faithfulness in my life this morning as I read Psalm 119..<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Psalm 119:73-77 (ESV)</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Your hands have made and fashioned me; </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>give me understanding that I may learn Your commandments.</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Those who fear You shall see me and rejoice, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>because I have hoped in Your word.</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>I know, O Lord, that Your roes are righteous, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>and that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Let Your steadfast love comfort me </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>according to Your promise to Your servant.</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Let Your mercy come to me, </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>that I may live; for Your law is my delight.</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Have a great Memorial Day Weekend - as we remember those who gave everything for our country!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-29168466705222362542012-05-25T05:17:00.001-05:002012-05-25T05:17:50.729-05:00Never OnceThis is a very different kind of Friday. This is the last day of school!!! This last day marks the completion of my first year of teaching! Success... Victory!<br />
<br />
I didn't do this year on my own. I had many many praying and still to this day have a very faithful God carrying me through each new day's adventure.<br />
<br />
You may not have realized it - but it was you and God that were there in all those testing rooms - in those classrooms that were beyond challenging - And today I thank you! I thank you for believing in me.<br />
<br />
Today is also a sad day. I have loved this year being a part of Panther Nation. I have immense pride teaching at the school where I graduated. And yet... today is my last teaching day at Lufkin High School.<br />
<br />
This was not a decision that was met with ease - but was bathed in much prayer and counsel. Next year, I will start a new adventure teaching Chemistry and Advanced Chemistry at Hudson High School (for all my non-local friends - this school is still in this area - no I will not be moving).<br />
<br />
I'm really excited about this opportunity God has brought my way and am looking forward to what He has in store for me there.<br />
<br />
One thing I know about the past year and the ones to come - I'm never alone! Never once has God ever left me and I know He is always faithful. That's why this is the perfect song for this week.<br />
<br />
Have a great Friday - enjoy your summer!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/n1bXG4WIesA" width="320"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-70415741423971752802012-05-18T04:20:00.000-05:002012-05-18T04:20:17.369-05:00Roaring Like a LionYay Friday! Today I'm traveling to New Orleans to celebrate a beautiful relationship. My dear friend and John's former secretary is getting married. I can't wait to get there and share this wonderful time with them.<br />
<br />
But before I get there - I still must do Friday. That means run 3 miles and give the last IPC test for the year. Since I've been running I've been listening to some fun, fast, Jesus music to keep me going.<br />
<br />
Today's song is one of my new favorites. It helps me to keep going for sure! One of my favorite lines is "this world... I'll overcome!"<br />
<br />
Whether it be the next mile that I'm wanting to finish or the last week of school, or any challenge that I'm facing - Jesus tells me that HE lives inside of me and I'm sure to overcome!<br />
<br />
Enjoy your Friday!<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="412" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ghC3gqNQJPQ" width="372"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-82192180614966700322012-05-04T05:06:00.001-05:002012-05-04T05:06:58.627-05:00This LifeHave you ever gotten to the end of the week and thought, "I meant to do _____" (fill in the blank) - but it just didn't get done?<br />
<br />
This week, I meant to have more patience. This week I meant to spend more time in prayer. I meant to teach more than just Science.<br />
<br />
One morning as I was preparing for the day in my classroom - I heard this song come across my Pandora. It actually made me stop what I was doing and really listen to the words.<br />
<br />
Whatever is on your "To Do List" - we are meant to shine - for as long as we're here. God knows this is not our home - we're not supposed to settle in and get comfortable. But we are supposed to shine.<br />
<br />
This weekend - here are the places I can shine:<br />
1. I'm running another race - The Fredonia 5-Miler<br />
<br />
2. JP's T-Ball Game - somehow I've become the Dugout Mom. I'm in charge of making sure the right kid goes out to bat, and maintain order with the rest of them in the meantime.<br />
<br />
3. Cheering on & encouraging all my little friends as they try out for Drill Team (Panther Pride)<br />
<br />
Wherever you go this weekend - remember to shine!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="272" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/6AECFlbFep4" width="372"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-38083641405506760872012-04-27T05:54:00.001-05:002012-04-27T05:56:07.870-05:00How far?Whew! It's been quite the week! It started off with my last certification test... and yes... I PASSED!!! On Monday I took the ESL Certification test, on Tuesday I finished my 4th GT online class and passed that test, yesterday we had a school function for Jordan, a T-Ball game for JP and in between those to events, I went to a visitation for a student's family member who passed away.<br />
<br />
Oh! And did I mention this has been TAKS testing week at school? I'm quite weary to say the least. One day as we were coming or going (who can keep up?) with the kids... JP was looking up to the sky and he asked me how many miles was it to Heaven.<br />
<br />
Then later in the week, I heard this song on my way to work. It was just too fitting for me to put it on my blog. The song talks about how weary we sometimes get in this life. And how we just "gotta know" - how far is Heaven.<br />
<br />
I told JP that we can't get there in a plane - or even a rocket ship - but it only takes a second to get there - when God's ready for you to be there. Until that day.... like Judges 8:4 says, I'm "exhausted yet pursuing."<br />
<br />
Have a great weekend!<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="272" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/sY_6JRqmFTc" width="372"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-47724842908742054632012-04-22T06:23:00.000-05:002012-04-22T06:23:14.463-05:00His Word SundayWhat is your desire?<br />
<br />
Yesterday the Lord allowed me to reach yet another goal - to run a 10K! I have an even bigger goal - to run a marathon... but this was one of those pitstop goals that I still needed to conquer.<br />
<br />
Many of you cheered me on through Facebook as I ran - I heard all of those cheers through my phone as I ran - thank you so much!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigdPxXZ0LnXeQj9aXGKNrZsJ19XSQDZV_Scz1_4OQinAz60PNdrJvIzcouvo8nN0odghGkqNBvD9ueB1zxhKqpxRiDk3dyvHim_6iecd3umyKG3XLAAlYlU29LtEW02mh0_UI9QsUSYYA/s1600/IMG_1819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigdPxXZ0LnXeQj9aXGKNrZsJ19XSQDZV_Scz1_4OQinAz60PNdrJvIzcouvo8nN0odghGkqNBvD9ueB1zxhKqpxRiDk3dyvHim_6iecd3umyKG3XLAAlYlU29LtEW02mh0_UI9QsUSYYA/s320/IMG_1819.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I read a verse this morning that speaks of accomplished desires.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Proverbs 13:19 (ESV)</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>A desire fulfilled is sweet to the soul.</i></b></div><br />
As I had my prayer time this morning, I thanked the Lord for helping me to fulfill this minor desire of mine. An even greater desire to show others just how great my God is - and what sweetness it is to my soul when I am found obedient to His ultimate desires for my life.<br />
<br />
What is your desire today? I pray you find sweetness in your soul when it is fulfilled!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-17069214612974227802012-04-20T05:17:00.000-05:002012-04-20T05:17:23.643-05:00One FootHave you ever had a weekend that was over-scheduled? I'm pretty sure the Pickard-Franklin Family is really close to this mark for this weekend.<br />
<br />
Today is actually quite manageable. JP's Field Day is today and I even get to attend! However, tomorrow is going to be the fun one! Here's what we've got from 8am-2pm: Me & the kids are running in the CASA Race, Jordan is performing in the LHS Drill Team Spring Show at 1pm, then JP has T-Ball game at 2pm. (oh! I almost forgot! I'm taking another certification test on Monday! I'm no where near ready for it - so I've got to study this weekend... sometime...)<br />
<br />
Whew! I'm super excited about them all! <br />
<br />
The race though... I'm nervous and excited! I'm running in my very first 10K. (6.2 miles - and yes, I can run the whole thing without stopping!) This is all part of my new journey to train for a marathon! I have thoughts like, am I totally crazy? Can I even do this at age 41? What am I thinking?!<br />
<br />
But in this new life that God has allowed me participate in - I've learned several things.... but one is, to put one foot in front of the other. I know on some days, that's all I can do. And for this race, (that seems super challenging) - I'm going to do the very same thing - one foot in front of the other.<br />
<br />
How can you help?! Yes - you can by the way! Send me messages on FB during the race. I have this app that turns your comments into cheers! I listen to a ton of upbeat Christian music while I'm running. This one here is one of my favorites! I listen to it every time I run! It reminds me that I can do this task and so many others that are difficult & challenging!<br />
<br />
I'll see ya at the finish line!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="272" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/k9jid16vzKY" width="372"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-37250416662169420272012-04-09T06:27:00.000-05:002012-04-09T06:27:58.262-05:00What's the good word?Have you ever noticed how contagious a smile can be? Same goes for laughter. Every now and then (usually when I'm super tired) someone will say something funny and for some reason - I continue to laugh... far beyond the normal limits of what was required.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgEyXg-E_-tB3k81GG8T6SOHC34WPVqT90GNoS-9lD9EEDPe66cpNQyDTWvFhyxCQpijcRbfIqSL2JQi_qdcfIpAHV3YMaQIywA47Y2X-5mQja-aURV2vU-wmZvHkNN5wDhW7NoFX8t0/s1600/heart+scale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgEyXg-E_-tB3k81GG8T6SOHC34WPVqT90GNoS-9lD9EEDPe66cpNQyDTWvFhyxCQpijcRbfIqSL2JQi_qdcfIpAHV3YMaQIywA47Y2X-5mQja-aURV2vU-wmZvHkNN5wDhW7NoFX8t0/s200/heart+scale.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Don't you wish you could lose weight laughing? Wouldn't that be wonderful?!<br />
<br />
Well... you might not lose weight - but hearing good things makes us feel lighter. Check this out...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Proverbs 12:25 (ESV)</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>but a good word makes him glad.</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>"Weigh him down"... I don't need anything more making the scale numbers increase! Therefore I need to get rid of anxiety in my heart and in my spirit.<br />
<br />
Anxiety is normal... I think about providing for my children, remaining financial stuff left over from John's move to Heaven, crazy schedules, commitments, the health of my family, so on and so forth.<br />
<br />
God wants me to have a good word about all of these things instead of letting anxiety rule. Almost every time John would call me on the phone I would answer in this way, "What the good word?"<br />
<br />
We all love to hear a good word. Instead of letting these things "weigh you down" - lift them up! Lift up these burdens and concerns to the Lord. We should never underestimate the power of prayer in our lives. He is so much stronger than me! He can take care of my burdens way better than me. When we pray we should ask the Lord, "So, what's Your good word for me today?"<br />
<br />
So - for this morning... I'm going to change my perspective on these "anxiety" issues and see them as good words - so my heart will be glad. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-15054914847523706652012-04-06T06:52:00.001-05:002012-04-06T06:53:15.912-05:00One footI woke up this morning - early... because I've trained my mind and body to do so... but then just laid there - doing nothing, because I could! No school today!!!<br />
<br />
I love No School Fridays!!! <br />
<br />
Ok... school is winding down, my certification is almost complete. As most of you know, I've always got some kind of goal in front of me. I now have a new goal. It's going to require quite a bit of training and will be a huge physical feat for me.<br />
<br />
Last Saturday, as I was running, beginning the very first steps of my brand new goal - I was listening to a song on my iPod. I loved it! It fit so perfectly with running - and yet fits so perfectly with my life in general.<br />
<br />
When we see HUGE obstacles in front of us - the only way we can attack them is just one foot in front of the other. Not necessarily huge leaps!<br />
<br />
Yesterday I did a Physics Lab with my students. We were calculating Work & Power based on data collected while running up a flight of stairs. The students asked if they could skip steps. The answer... NO! It was important for our data for every student to actually step on every step - one at a time.<br />
<br />
We are to do life with God the exact same way.... taking every single step with Him & no skipping steps!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Caution! This song is perfect for running -</i><br />
<i> so it's kind of a rock song! </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Not my typical smooth easy listening ballads. </i><br />
<i>I'm just warning you!)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="272" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/k9jid16vzKY" width="372"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-23529140625813431502012-04-01T06:30:00.000-05:002012-04-01T06:30:25.517-05:00His Word SundayIt's quite common to look at others and wonder why you can't have what they have. Sometimes we want the simple things... sometimes we want the big things.<br />
<br />
I was reminded this morning by a wonderful Psalm to not set my heart on other people's "things" but to keep my heart totally devoted to the Lord. He alone knows what's best for me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzH5JeWds8K7iWklc6oQJJkq5Q7QCgAq6u-lth_-jskbCiGMD30vegbIhmaWDWOdLQ6iurOynDWaw0kcTaAv_YwBAMpHPHfuYNeVurMm1awlHiRWj4AVQ0n7zvcRd6_7XYYwPWJpFEGfA/s1600/strength+of+my+heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzH5JeWds8K7iWklc6oQJJkq5Q7QCgAq6u-lth_-jskbCiGMD30vegbIhmaWDWOdLQ6iurOynDWaw0kcTaAv_YwBAMpHPHfuYNeVurMm1awlHiRWj4AVQ0n7zvcRd6_7XYYwPWJpFEGfA/s320/strength+of+my+heart.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Psalm 73:1-3, 16-17, 25-26, 28 (ESV)</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Truly God is good to Israel, </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>to those those who are pure in heart. </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled, </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>my steps had nearly slipped. </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>For I was envious of the arrogant when I saw </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>the prosperity of the wicked.</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>But when I thought how to understand this, </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>it seemed to me a wearisome task, </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>until I went into the sanctuary of God, </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>then I discerned their end.</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Whom have I in heaven but You? </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides You. </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>My flesh and my heart may fail, </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>But for me it is good to be near God; </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>I have made the Lord God my refuge, </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>that I may tell of all Your works.</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-68355371356089979932012-03-30T05:35:00.000-05:002012-03-30T05:35:34.317-05:00New Day - New SmilesDo you ever feel like some weeks are longer than others? It reality each week only has 168 hours. But in my life some of those hours seem to be on fast forward and at other times they seem to be marching time. Can you relate?<br />
<br />
I experienced the latter this week. We had STAAR testing at the beginning of the week. Therefore I didn't see some of my students for 2 days. No worries... we had enough drama with them Wednesday & Thursday to last me for the rest of the semester! <br />
<br />
But here we are (like every week) staring at Friday... finally! I've already given this day - and all that it may hold to the Lord. Even though it was a hard week - He has sustained me. It didn't beat me!<br />
<br />
Just a quick update on Franklin happenings....<br />
1. I only have 2 more online classes and an ESL test and I will be COMPLETELY done with my certification. In fact, I've already signed my contract for next year with LHS Science.<br />
<br />
2. I'm speaking at a local church's Women's Retreat in April. I'm really excited about this!<br />
<br />
3. Jordan & I are going to NOLA at the end of May for a wedding! John's secretary is getting married. I can't wait to share this super special day with them!<br />
<br />
4. JP has started T-Ball - Jordan's dance recital is in June. It's going to be a busy season!<br />
<br />
5. The summer is filling up quickly with GA Camp, VBS, Youth Camp (I'm a counselor), Grandmother & Papa Camp, and just plain old relaxing..... I'm NOT teaching Summer School!<br />
<br />
<br />
In lieu of it being Finally Friday and the hope of all that's coming our way... I thought we could all use a happy song! I pray you have a great "morning" - and an even better weekend!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="272" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/g4Sj6TmSG4w" width="372"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-658542149464928791.post-53093892426715617512012-03-26T05:48:00.000-05:002012-03-26T05:48:32.840-05:00Prop me up!The Final Stretch!!<br />
<br />
I can't believe my first year of teaching is in the final stretch! What a year this has been! There are only 9 more weeks of school left. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.<br />
<br />
I only have 2 more G/T online classes and an ESL Certification test remaining and this excites me!<br />
<br />
However, even though I'm excited, I still want to finish strong. It's not over yet - so much can happen in 9 weeks. I've had some recent days where I think all I can do is just survive until May. I want to do more than just survive.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHPrchYtEJfzWXqXSky_w1-F0u2Frwb6X3gv_rNxYUthbOUkEaaEWiverBbmoVBn5q8bdVzHnocbQ9s5B57Dl27C7KSC1BpiotF5jl_eBhIEUNratwyQStmSvqqES67XGKOz0nypx0-Rg/s1600/kiss+in+pocket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHPrchYtEJfzWXqXSky_w1-F0u2Frwb6X3gv_rNxYUthbOUkEaaEWiverBbmoVBn5q8bdVzHnocbQ9s5B57Dl27C7KSC1BpiotF5jl_eBhIEUNratwyQStmSvqqES67XGKOz0nypx0-Rg/s1600/kiss+in+pocket.jpg" /></a></div>When Jordan first started preschool - she and I both were a little nervous. I was sad not to see her all day and she was scared about going to a new place with new people. So I gave her a kiss and told her to put it in her pocket. If she got to a point in her day where she missed me - just take out that "kiss" and put it on her face and it would be like I was right there with her.<br />
<br />
Somehow this worked for her! Today I read a verse in Psalms that I'm going to treat like this "kiss" I gave Jordan so many years ago. I'm going to tuck it away in my pocket and when I feel I can't finish strong - I'm going to pull it out and remember that the Lord is right here beside me.<br />
<br />
Ready for the verse? Me too!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Psalm 68:19 (ESV)</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; </i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>God is our salvation.</i></b></div><br />
With His daily bearing up I can conquer these next 9 weeks!<br />
<br />
Have a great day everyone!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71kxSo2rzSpcmGsmbbigqTTmgebEOIjbXtYasKrwp8W-YTz0NJ02KUdeuRXS5KH9ixVASaDXO_8W-2yBrWF5UoGBomCZNMicM16jOYqkBP1skrSUyvGoI720Djbv2JyYZnRRD384NTBaL/" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Pennyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04268584870305231307noreply@blogger.com0