Saturday, March 31, 2007

In loving Memory of my cousin Shawn

I was very close to my cousin growing up. Our Grandpa and Grandma would make sure we were together as a family a lot. As we both got older and had families of our own we grew apart. I loved to play Barbie dolls when I was a young girl. The only one of my cousin's that I could talk into playing with me is Shawn. He always had such a sweet personality. He will be missed by all!

Hall, Shawn C.
Hall, Shawn C. Milan, MI Age 38, died unexpectedly on March 28, 2007 at his home. He was born on December 7, 1968 in Ann Arbor, Michigan to Lester and Jacqueline (Woolcott) Hall. Shawn was a graduate of Forest High School in Ocala, FL and was a carpenter and tile layer for many years.Shawn was dearly loved by his parents, sister, brother, nieces and nephews, and he loved fishing with his grandfather in the Upper Pennisula at Lake Gogebic. He is survived by his parents; his children, Zachariah, Tori, Isaiah, Hezakiah;sister Ranae of Saline and brother Bryan of Dundee. Shawn loved all his children very dearly. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Chuck and Lucy Woolcott and Elizabeth and Bernie Hall. Visitation will be Sunday from 2-5 and 7-9pm at Ochalek-Stark Funeral Home, Milan where funeral services will be held Monday at 1pm. Burial will follow at Marble Park Cemetery, Milan. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family. Condolences may be sent to the family by signing the guestbook at www.ochalekstark.com.
Published in the Ann Arbor News on MLive.com on 3/30/2007.

Living for the simple things in lifeThis is Chuck and Lucy Woolcott our Grandparents that took us Up North.

Living for the simple things in life: Mackinac BridgeThis spot was special to all of us.

Fruitfulness in God

I personally desire to be planted as close to God as I can, so that I can drink from the living water and grow spiritually. I don’t want to plant myself near the television or the movie theater or the porn sites. If I feed on all that the world’s “junk food,” my spiritual condition will reflect that. By planting myself near God’s resources, I have the promises that I will flourish in the courts of God, I will bear fruit even in old age, and I will be fresh and flourishing to declare that God is Good!

The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing, to declare that the LORD is upright; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him. Psalm 92:12-15

This Psalm gives us a glimpse of what fruitfulness in God looks like. A person’s lack of fruitfulness in God can be a major foothold of condemnation from the devil. It can be easy to get overrun in our sin, stalled in our faith and convinced that God is out to punish us. If that’s your situation, take comfort that Jesus bore God’s entire wrath toward you on the cross. You now have peace with God (Romans 5:1) and can boldly come before God for help at any time (Hebrews 4:16).

God’s gift to you along with the forgiveness of your sins is that he counts you as righteous through the blood of Jesus. As such, you may claim the promises in the Bible toward the righteous (Romans 3:21-29). The above Psalm contains several such promises. The one requirement is that you must “plant yourself” in the house of the Lord. This means we should be well grounded in the word of God (the Bible), plugged into a good church and pursuing a relationship with God.

Friday, March 30, 2007

The Church Gossip

Below is a little tale about "The Church Gossip". It was sent to me in an email. Before I get to the email, let me tell how church gossip can destroy lives. This email had me thinking of all the gossip that I have heard in the past and what the scriptures tell us to do about it.

Gossip can and will destroy people! I have seen this in my own church on many occasions. If we are saying things that are not building people up, then we are tearing them down.

What about the person that has gossiped about you? Do you have the right to turn around and gossip about them to your friends because they have gossiped about you? NO!!!! You don't!

I even heard of a trained Christian Councelor, after meeting with someone that came to him. Go to a person that this councilee brought up in their meeting and told the person that this person came to him and what the person said. (How this person gossiped about him and how others were gossiping about him) I pray this person sees his sin, repents and turns from this evil. The other person thought that this behavior was o.k. I did council this person to go back and confront this sin. I don't think I will be going to this person for counceling anytime soon. Who knows who they will tell that I have been to see them. If I am going to go to someone for counciling, I want to make sure they can keep things to themselves. I promise if they tell you about someone else, they are telling someone else about you. (Again, this person doesn't attend my church)

How long will people let this evil live?

Another thing that people don't understand is how clever people can be when they are gossiping. A person came to me about a letter that was written about them. This letter was placed on the car of a young lady concerning this other person (The two people involved in this no longer attend my church) I don't know what was said in this letter, just what this person shared with me. For starters, if a person comes to you with gossip about another person, don't go to that person and share what was said. Why tear a person down in this way? It sounds to me like someone was jealous of the two of them spending time together or something. I really didn't know either one of the people very well so I don't know what there relationship was at that point. The funny thing is the two of them spent a lot of time gossiping about people in our church that they thought might have written this letter. (This letter was placed on a young ladies car) I couldn't even believe some of the people they accused of writing this letter. They tore down innocent peoples reputation! I told this person to get the letter so innocent people were not gossiped about anymore. The other person would not provide the letter to this person. If this person really cared about this man as she said she did, would she really tell him of the things that were said about him? or did she do it so she looked like she was the victim? and all the other ladies that they gossiped about were evil. Why would she not go to an Elder or Pastor regarding this? How many other people did these people share this with? The people they were gossiping about could not even prove they were innocent or defend themselves.

The person came to me with this so I told him this was just another form of gossip. I do pray that these two people will repent and turn from this sin.

I believe the Bible is clear on this. I have spent sometime this morning looking up and studying scripture.

Gossip destroys relationships, friendships and reputations.

I tell my children if you have nothing good to say about someone, just keep your mouth closed. We are not always going to get along with others; some people will rub us the wrong way. This doesn't give us a right to gossip about them.

The Christian who gossips doesn't really care about others, especially the ones they're gossiping about. They really care more about themselves. They just want to have juicy information to attract others to themselves. The apostle Paul said in Philippians 2:3, "Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteems others better than himself. 4, Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others."

1Corinthians 13:5 "Love...thinks no evil..."

Paul also said in Romans15:2, "Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification." Only words of edification, building up should come out of your mouth as Paul also teaches in Ephesians 4:29, " Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers."

Only Good words!

Only Encouraging words!

NO tearing down words!

I have even heard these words from people. "If they mess with you they mess with me". I have heard other words that are similar to these. "When people say things about you I take them personal because I care about you" Sure, it sounds good to the one that has been gossiped about. It's flattering to hear something like this but are theses really Godly statements? I think not!

Only Good words!

Only Encouraging words!

NO tearing down words!


What about the friend that has heard gossip about you and comes and tells you all about it. They say they tell you so you know what is being said about you, because they care deeply for you. They tell you because they want your attention. They want you to think they are standing up for you, they are tearing you down. Stop listening to this evil!

A word to those that listen to gossip:

Proverbs 17:4, A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.

If someone comes to you with gossip - Don't listen! If they blurt something out about others, tell them that they need to GO and talk with the person that they seem to be offended by. Tell them you'll give them a few days or a week to reconcile with this brother or sister in Christ, and that you'll be checking up on their progress of reconciling with the person they're gossiping about. This method will normally stop people from coming to you with gossip.

Proverbs 10:19 says, "When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise."

Plain and simply, the person who's always JUST TALKING TO TALK, will eventually fall into many sins of the tongue.

Psalm 34:13, Keep your tongue from evil, And your lips from speaking deceit.

The word "keep" in the Hebrew has the sense of watching and guarding. You've heard the expression, "Watch your tongue." That's exactly what we must do. Guard what comes out. God has given us two lips and two sets of teeth to guard our speech. Don't be involved in the Devil's business of destroying the testimonies of the Saints. Do speak the truth in love, Only to the one that you're concerned about. If you've struggled with Gossip it's time to repent and develop godly speech patterns that build others up.


The Church Gossip
>Mildred, the church gossip, and self-appointed monitor of the church's morals,
kept sticking her nose into other people's business. Several members did not
approve of her extra curricular activities, but feared her enough to maintain
their silence.
>
>She made a mistake, however, when she accused George, a new member, of being an
alcoholic after she saw his old pickup parked in front of the town's only bar
one afternoon.

She emphatically told George (and several others) that
everyone seeing it there would know what he was doing. George, a man of few
words, stared at her for a moment and just turned and walked away. He didn't
explain, defend, or deny. He said nothing.
>
>Later that evening, George quietly parked his pickup in front of Mildred's house...walked home...and left it there all night.
>
>You gotta love George!

What do we do if our brother sins? These verse are very plan on how to handle sin. I'm saying a brother or sister in the Lord is going to take being confronted well. We do have Scripture as to how we are to handle this situation.

Matthew 18:15, "Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother."

Luke 6:41 & 42, "And why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye, but do not perceive the plank in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me remove the speck that is in your eye,' when you yourself do not see the plank that is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck that is in your brother's eye."

James 3:2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.

James is not saying that this man is sinless, but rather that he is spiritualy mature. The spiritually mature believer has control of his/her tongue. It does not control them, they control it.

James says that a mature believer can control the tongue. So what does he mean in v. 5-8?

5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! 6, And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

One little match can burn down a whole forest. One little tongue can cause so much destruction. James is illustrating for us how destructive the uncontrolled tongue can be. Gossip and Slander is SO damaging within relationships. The person who gossips really does not care about others. In fact, the gossiper is prideful,wanting to have juicy information to share in order to get others to listen to them. People caught up in the sin of Gossip need to understand that James says that the tongue is "a world of iniquity."

No Christian should have the characteristics of the wicked's tongue. But sadly, some do. Christians need to realize just how much God hates the sins of the tongue:

Prov. 6:16, These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 17 A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,


Lying is listed amoung the most vile of sins. Gossip can be a form of lying and God HATES it. Christian, if you struggle with Gossip - repent of this sin

Thursday, March 29, 2007

The Funeral is going to be Monday

Death is so very hard! I don't know if my cousin was a believer or not. I know he attended church for sometime after his divorce. I went and took my Aunt and Uncle some money this afternoon before I went to my route. I know nothing but God's Word can bring them any comfort but I just wanted to try and help out as much as I could. (My husband was more than willing to let me give them money)

When my son passed away we received a great deal of help from our community, our parents and relatives. It doesn't help the pain go away but it might help with the funeral expencises.

My poor Aunt and Uncle, they look so very bad. My heart breaks for them.

The Veiwing is Sunday and the Funeral is going to be on Monday.

My Cousin pasted away last Night he was only 38!

I just found out my cousin Shawn past away from a heart attack last night. He was only 38 years old, he had five children under 11.

We just don't know when it is our time to go. He was sick with a sinus infection yesterday, I guess he went to the Doctors, they put him on medication for the Sinus Infection, he felt good enough last night to help some friends move. I guess he told them he wasn't feeling very well so he went and layed down. After a few hours they checked on him to make sure he was o.k. and he was stiff by that point.

I just feel so badly for my Aunt and my Uncle. My Uncle and cousin were suppose to start a business together soon. It is just so heart breaking, then I think about his poor children!

You never think you are going to bury your own child. I know from losing my own son how hard this is going to be on my Aunt, Uncle and his brother and sister.

May God be with them at this time.

“Therefore be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” (Matthew 24:44.)

- Paul

The hour is approaching when the souls of man will hear
A mighty shout resounding in the sky
In power and great glory King Jesus will appear
And take His children home to paradise
It will be a celebration for the ones who chose His name
But total separation for the ones who turned away.
Are you ready for the trumpet?
Are you ready for the call?
Soon the angels will assemble to usher in the Son of God
Will He come and find you faithful?
Will He know your name at all?
Every moment brings us closer
Are you ready for the call?

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

Dusting!

A.J. was sworn into the Navy today. He leaves August 23, 2007 for a 5 year deployment. There will be time for dusting when my children are grown and gone.

Living for the simple things in life: The Navy Recruiter

The moral to this story below isn't that there is dust on my tables or my house isn't clean. The moral to this story is take the time for your children and your family. Make life fun for them. There will be time for other things when they are gone. It comes in a blink of an eye! I promise, I know first hand.

Dusting

"A house becomes a home when you can write "I love you" on the furniture." AMEN !!

And my house is sure a home!!

I can't tell you how many countless hours that I have spent CLEANING! I used to spend at least 8 hours every weekend making sure things were just perfect -- "in case someone came over." (Maybe this is a hyperbole for me).

Then I realized one day that no-one came over; they were all out living life and having fun!

Now, when people visit, I find no need to explain the "condition" of my home. They are more interested in hearing about the things I've been doing while I was
away living life and having fun. If you haven't figured this out yet, please heed this advice.

Life is short. Enjoy it!

Dust if you must, but wouldn't it be better to paint a picture or write a letter, or do some Bible study, spend time with a friend bake a cake or plant a seed, go play golf, ponder the difference between want and need?

Dust if you must, but there's not much time, with rivers to swim and mountains to climb, music to hear, songs to sing and books to read, friends to cherish and life to lead.

Dust if you must, but the world's out there with the sun in your eyes, the wind in your hair, a flutter of snow, a shower of rain.

This day will not come around again.


Dust if you must, but bear in mind, old age will come and it's not kind. And when you go -- and go you must -- you, yourself will make more dust!

It's not what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived.

Live well, Love much, Laugh often!

And when this world closes in on me,
let me follow the example of Jesus --
to ask my closest friends to keep watch,
and then go and find a quiet place to pray.

Preparing for Awana

I have switch up a little bit from Bible Trivia to Bible searches for my Awana girls. They seemed to be getting a little bored with the Trivia each week.



















These are the songs I prepared to lead the girls in tomorrow evening at Awana clubs.

My Savior Lives

Our God will reign forever
And all the world will know His name
Everyone together
Sing the song of the redeemed

I know that my Redeemer lives
And now I stand on what He did
My Savior my Savior lives
Every day a brand new chance to say
Jesus You are the only way
My Savior my Savior lives

The King has come from Heaven
And darkness trembles at His name
Victory forever
Is the song of the redeemed

My Savior lives
My Savior lives
My Savior lives

words and music by Jon Egan and Glenn Packiam
© 2006 Vertical Worship Songs
c/o Integrity Media, Inc., 1000 Cody Road, Mobile, AL 36695
All rights reserved. Used by Permission.


Everyone (Praises)

Great in splendor
Lord of everything
Worthy is Your name
Never-changing
Ever-reigning King
Worthy is Your name
All creation rises up
To declare Your wonders
As people everywhere sing

Praises
To the One Who saves us
Through His blood He gave us life
And now we come
Everyone

More than able
Always faithful friend
Worthy is Your name
Bright and burning
You’re returning again
Worthy is Your name
All creation rises up
To declare Your wonders
As people everywhere sing

Hallelujah
Hallelujah
words and music by Glenn Packiam
© 2004 Vertical Worship Songs/ASCAP

Song: God Of Wonders
Artist: Chris Tomlin

Lord of heaven and earth Lord of heaven and earth
Lord of heaven and earth Lord of heaven and earth

Lord of all creation Of water, earth, and sky
The heavens are Your tabernacle Glory to the Lord on High

God of wonders, beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy
The universe declares Your majesty You are holy, holy

Lord of heaven and earth (2X)

Early in the morning I will celebrate the light
And as I stumble through the darkness
I will call Your name by night

God of wonders, beyond out galaxy You are holy, holy
The universe declares Your majesty You are holy, holy

Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth (4X)

God of wonders, beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy
The universe declares Your majesty You are holy, holy

God of wonders beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy
The universe declares your majesty You are holy, holy

God of wonders beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy
Precious Lord reveal your heart to me Father holy, holy

Lord of heaven and earth
Lord of heaven and earth

Monday, March 26, 2007

Before I was a Mom

We have a flu bug going around our house, I have a bunch of sick children today! It's just a part of being a mom. I love every part of being a mom, the good times, which is always fun and the bad times, in which I can grow in practice and kindness.

Before I was a Mom

I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.

I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.

I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom

I had never been puked on.

Pooped on.

Chewed on.

Peed on.

I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.

I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom

I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests.

Or give shots.

I never looked into teary eyes and cried.

I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.

I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom

I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put them down.

I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.

I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.

I never knew that I could love someone so much.

I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom

I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.

I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.

I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.

I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.

I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache, the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.

I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.
********************************

Saturday, March 24, 2007

Sunday Devotional

I want to live Unselfishly!

I have thought about this a lot lately! Over the last two years I have become a very selfish person. I was, the kind of person that would give without ever even thinking or needing something in return, even if it were just someone's love. With Christ's help, (being in His Word and praying daily) I am getting back to my old self. Not my old nature before Christ but my old self. A person that doesn't need or want anything in return for the things that I do or did for others. I can't change the past or my past actions. I have to set the stage for the here and now.

I am so very ashamed of my behavior, may God forgive me!

I want to "Love", expecting nothing in return. I want to "Give", though I may never receive a thank you. I want to "Forgive", even though they might not forgive me. I want to invest everything I have in people even if nobody notices. Isn't this "the high calling" Paul talks about in Philippians 3:14-15? 14Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 15Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only;

Love is a choice - one that costs! I can't love others while I'm starring into a mirror or give to others while I'm clinging to what I've got. Love will cost me time, my money and my preoccupation with myself. I know that I'm not going to just one day turn back into this person. To be loving I've got to take up the cross daily, deny myself and make others my priority.

I remember the woman that was caught in adultery? Jesus stooped down to reach her, stood by her under attack, then sent her home redeemed and refocused. I want to be like Him. I want to be more like Christ! I need to go and find people who are hurting, hopeless, and even wrong. When I do, I need to minister to them until they're redeemed, restored and right. That is, I guess, what I believe to be me living unselfishly!

This verse says it all!
Luke 6:31-35
Chapter 6
31"As you would like people to do to you, do exactly so to them. 32If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive back as much. 35But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing back; and your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind toward the unthankful and evil.

Friday, March 23, 2007

I was asked to pray over a meal for a Bridal Shower!

I spent most of the night tonight shopping for a Bridal shower gift for a dear young couple that will be getting married on April 28th, 2007. I bought them a Punch Bowl set that they wanted from "Bed, Bath and Beyond". I have known the young man since he was 3 years old, I've known the bride for at least 8 years. This is one of my good friend’s sons. I have sung with this woman for 15 years; In Trio's, duets, at concerts and on our Worship team. I was asked to pray over the meal tomorrow for the Bridal shower. I get very nervous when I have to speak in front of people. I know I am a singer but it really is different than speaking and praying in front of a large group of people. I also said I would help in anyway needed; they asked if I would buy the products needed to make the punch. I just thought I would get everything tonight and take it to church so I wouldn't have to worry about it in the morning. The shower is at 12:00 p.m. Jimmy and Jon's best friends are spending the night tonight and Bo is in Lansing so I thought this would be the perfect night to slip away and handle everything that needed handled for tomorrow.

With the Lord's help, it is really to Him, I have come up with this prayer for the young couple and the meal:

Lord God, Creator of the universe, Father of us all, we have gathered here to celebrate the up and coming wedding that will soon take place between Amanda and Bradly. Bless, oh Father, this food that we are about to receive with grateful hearts as a sign of your continuous bounty and providence. May your generous blessing descend also upon this young couple, their families and friends present here today. I thank you for the hands that have prepared this meal. Amen!

I just don't want to get up and babble because I am nervous.

Father, help me not to babble tomorrow, thank you for putting these words on my heart to say to You.

Side note: Bo called about 8:30 p.m. and said they made it safely to Lansing and that he made weight. He said the hotel was “GREAT” and that they were about to go swimming. Bo was so excited this morning to be able to stay in a motel all weekend and go to States. He has a bad cold so I am a little worried about him. I am leaving him in the Lord’s hands. He will keep him safe and sound.

Bo and Josh are going to States this Weekend!

I didn't get a chance to post about last weekend. We took the kids to Clarkston for Regional’s in Wrestling. Bo won first place and Josh won in Third place! The top four Wrestlers in each class qualify for States. My other boys didn't make it. My son B.C. and Jess are going to take Bo and Josh to Lansing this weekend to Wrestle at States. They are leaving when Bo and Josh get out of school. The boy’s have to weigh-in tonight. They will wrestler for the top eight slots tomorrow. If they get past this cut they will wrestle on Sunday. How very exciting for Josh and Bo.

Thursday, March 22, 2007

Exercising and Enorphins Release

I'm faithfully exercising an hour everyday, the scale is moving but not as fast as I want it to. I guess I want results right now!!! I hate every minute on the treadmill. The only part I like about it is the five minute cool down when I am all done. I know that sounds bad but it is the truth. I do like how I feel the rest of the day when I am all done and have had my shower and I am cleaned up for the day. They say your body gives off a natural ENDORPHIN RELEASE. (See Endorphin Release below)

I was waiting to exercise until after I got the kids off to school, I find that not to be the best for me. I got up and exercised early today. I think this will work out a lot better on the days I don't have to work until 4:00 a.m. in the morning and try to get up at 5:30 a.m. and excercise.

A.J. just left for school, Jon is in the shower, I need to get Jimmy and Bo up for school. I am getting my two of my Grandchildren this morning at 7:40 a.m. I'll feed Josh and take him to school with Bo. I get to keep Ethan until 12:30 p.m. today. I love spending time with all of my grandchildren. I am sure Ethan will want to spend time in the game room today.

I have the route to do this afternoon and Worship team practice tonight at 5:50 p.m. Work at 10:00 p.m. (I feel like I am a news reporter, details at 11:00 p.m.) O.K. I'm being a little silly.


HOW DOES EXERCISE AFFECT ENDORPHIN RELEASE?

Blood levels of beta-endorphins have been found to increase to as much as five times their resting levels during a prolonged bout of aerobic exercise (over 30mins). This measurement varies from person to person and is affected by how much regular exercise you take part in.

As tolerance of the body to opioid drugs increases with increased use over time, the pattern of tolerance to endorphins follows a similar path(3). The more regularly you exercise, the higher the body's natural tolerance to endorphins. This means that as you exercise more, you require a higher intensity of exercise in order to produce the same endorphin release. As with opioid drugs, exercise can become addictive, as athletes begin to require the analgaesic effects of the endorphins. This analgaesic effect is sometimes referred to as "the runners high". Like any addiction, exercise addiction can result in dependence, tolerance, and continued use or participation despite adverse affects, leading to the sacrifice other activities to devote more time to exercise.

The "runners high" is said to be experienced by 60-70% of well conditioned runners.



EXERCISE!

Every day I am bombarded
In each direction that I turn
By those who claim that EXERCISE
Causes flab to crash and burn!

I did jumping jacks and sit ups
Went out and bought that darn machine
The one that guarantees in 30 days
I'd be trim and fit and lean...

I put it in the extra room
That we affectionately call the "gym"
With all the other paraphenalia
That will one day make me slim!

Ab mats for doing crunches
A small tramp to run in place
That awful, go-nowhere pedaling bike
That only leaves me red of face!

I have workout clothes and sweat bands
Even a "get-fit" coffee cup!
But that scale hasn't budged an inch
So, I'm on the verge of giving up!

I've just about convinced myself
That it's true what some folks say...
You have heard it too......Eat Right!
Get Fit? Die anyway!!

So for those who are devoted
To trying to make me over, PLEASE!
If God wanted me to touch my toes
He would have put them on my knees!

I believe He loves us as we are
That includes both big AND small
So when I reach the gates of Heaven
It will be with flab and all!

Copyright; Dusty Tincher

Wednesday, March 21, 2007

The Pinetree Crosses

Last April on a Sunday we took one of our "nowhere" drives, my husband was quietly driving a back road. I was occupied in the front passenger seat watching the scenery.

I noticed out of the corner of my eye that my husband was straining to look out my window. This startled me, since his eyes should be on the road in front of him. I asked him what he was looking at out the windows, and he quietly replied, "Nothing." His eyes went back to the road in front of him.

After a few minutes, I looked over at my husband and noticed a tear running down his cheek. I asked him what was wrong. This time he told me, "I was just thinking about Pop and a story he had once told me." Of course, because it had to do with his Pop I wanted to know the story, so I asked him to share it with me.

He said, "When I was about 8 years old, Pop and I were out fishing and that's when he told me that the Pine trees know when it is Easter."

I had no idea what he meant by that, so I pressed him for more information.

He continued on... "The Pine trees start their new growth in the weeks before Easter -- if you look at the tops of the Pine trees two weeks before, you will see the yellow shoots. As the days get closer to Easter Sunday, the tallest shoot will branch off and form a cross. By the time Easter Sunday comes around, you will see that most of the Pine trees will have small yellow crosses on all of the tallest shoots."

I turned to look out the window and I couldn't believe my eyes. It was a week before Easter, and you could see all of the trees with the tall yellow shoots stretching to Heaven.

The tallest ones shone in the sunlight like rows of tiny golden crosses.

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Tuesday, March 20, 2007

I am a knuckle head!

I'm back up and running!

Oh my, sometimes I have to wonder about myself. How in the world has my husband put up with me for the last 21 years? I am sure at times, he wonders how too!

I do have to laugh at myself for something really dumb I did yesterday. (My husband wasn't laughing) I sat down to "download" my pictures from this weekend and knocked out the plug to the keyboard. While trying to get it back in, I broke it. (Famous Family Matters line: Did I do that) We went tonight and purchased a cordless keyboard. My husband is a Computer Systems Specialist. He works on computers all day! You would think I would know how to plug in a keyboard.
I did tell him I was sorry. : )

I have to leave for work now, I'll journal as soon as I can.

Thursday, March 15, 2007

What a Blessing!

For starters, I have a free night! I don't have to do anything until I go to work at 10:00 p.m. The boy's are all gone to their wrestling practice at the U of M. A.J. is watching the new Netflex movies we received in the mail today. I thought I would sit down and journal for a while. This week has been a little slow for me. I asked if I could have Josh and Ethan Tuesday and this morning before I had to leave for work. I picked the boy's up at 7:30 a.m. and brought them back to my house. I fed them breakfast and then took Bo and Josh to school at 9:00 a.m. I then got to enjoy Ethan the rest of the morning. I kept him until 12:30 p.m.

That little boy just blesses his Nana's heart. I get to hear how beautiful I am and how much he loves me all morning. What Grandma wouldn't love to hear that? He brings life to this house when the boy's are in school. I am very grateful for my daughter-in-law for letting me get him whenever I want him.

I will be busy this weekend! Tomorrow morning I work at my house cleaning job. I will do my route when I'm done at my house cleaning job at 12:30 p.m. I think the twins best friends are spending the night Friday evening. Jon called me when I was on my route and asked if they could, he said it was o.k. with dad. Tomorrow evening I also have to take the boy's to the High school to be weighed for there last winter wrestling tournament on Sunday. That doesn't take very long and shouldn't get in the way of there playing to much. Saturday Bo has soccer practice in the a.m. and Awana Olympics at 1:00 p.m. in Jackson. It will be off to my Janitors job when it is over. Sunday after my route I will be heading to Carleton for the last wrestling tournament this winter. I think we get a month off before summer wrestling begins. That covers my life for the next few days. I'm not sure if I'll have time for to much journaling until Monday.

I'd better start making dinner before the troops come home from wrestling. I'm making spaghetti with garlic bread for the boy's. My husband and I are eating Barbeque Vegetable protein sandwiches, my husband made this up before he left to take the boy's. My boy's are always very hungry when they are finished practicing

I wasn't going to post this email from my Step-dad but it really blessed my heart to see how much he loves my mom. I thought maybe you'll would be blessed with it as well.

Hello Lori,

Yes, those pictures cracked me up !!!!!!!

We had to go to the U yesterday and I had a Heart Monitor on me yesterday from 11:00 AM to 11: AM Today. Then I took it off and they gave me an envelope to send it back to the U so they can check my Heart Beat to see if it is keeping the right beat.
Now I am to have lung surgery May 2, but before that I have to go back to Dr.Sisson the lung doctor. Who knows what will happen from there except the Lord.

I am some what better than I was the last time I saw him.
Since I have retired I have a whole different look on life. Now I see how important each new day is. I have realized how important family is. And to stop and look at every thing God as made for us to enjoy. Before the Devil destroys it all.

Some time I will just sit down and rest and look at all the beauty God as made. And listen to the birds. When I was working it was hurry, hurry all the time from 4:00 AM to late at night.

God watched over me that whole time. I know one thing when you reach my age you know time is getting short. I have a hard time dealing with that.

I could not have a better wife, she as been there for me my whole life. And when I
Was working she waited for me for many hours to get home from work. She has always loved me and took care of me and all of you children. I guess I got winded.

As far as my B-Day there is a place called Rallys we like to eat at on the way to the Lake Sometimes. I just love that place. They don't have gift cards. So just give me what ever, you always over due it any way.

Well I better go for now,

Love, Dad

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Just when I thought I'd seen just about everything?


I think Bo would do just about anything to get his picture taken.














I received these pictures from my step-dad today. I thought the tree in the middle of the road was very interesting.










Monday, March 12, 2007

Update on my Step-dad

I emailed my mom my post this morning. I know they are going through some very tough times right now. My Step-dad has already had Heart bypass surgery almost a year ago. He is now having lung problems and he has had three strokes. I think my poor mom is beside herself with worry and frustation. My mom's email will update you all as to what is going on with him now.


My mom just sent me this picture of my adopted sisters; Shiyona (9 years old) and Maali (4 years old).

Living for the simple things in life: Mini-Stroke

Living for the simple things in life: My Step-dad and Mom




THANK YOU MY DAUGHTER

HOW IN THE WORLD DID YOU KNOW I NEEDED TO BE UPLIFTED.

I have been doing okay until the past week. I guess with Dad's surgery rescheduled for May and knowing that we are going into spring with things we would like to do. Dad always has his agenda for spring. I told him to get it canceled until at least the middle of the month. He gets a heart monitor tomorrow to see if he is having any A fib with his heart. (too fast at times). Last week we went to the neurologist, they said he cannot be off aspirin for any length of time so to share that with
the surgeon.

He is just so different, I am sure he is overwhelmed with fear about if he will ever be well. He says it now and then. He sleeps a lot during the day and sometimes even when we are watching TV in the evening. We have not been in church a lot lately, he does not feel good in the mornings. We go on Wednesday evenings though.

I think he gets tired of everyone thinking he is fine and he does not tell them any different. I am sure it is getting to him. He just says I'm not in the hospital.

Anyway I am thankful you let me know about the boy's, I do love each of them. How is Aaron doing? How are you doing?

I wrote Jessica our mary-kay rep (LOL) to tell her I do want to order when you all order again. I found some cheek blush I like.

I love you Lori and I miss you too.

Love
Mom

Consider the Lillies

My weekend was packed full of fun events! Saturday's tournament was fun! My boy's didn't bring home a trophy but I don't think they always have to win for a parent to have fun. Sometimes just working together and doing things as a family is as important as winning. Don't get me wrong, I love to win as much as the next guy. This is how the boy's did; This tournament was very hard, there were many great wrestler's competing. Jimmy went 2-2, Bo went 2-2, Jon went 0-2, Josh went 1-2. I worked one of the tables with my husband and my son's friend. My daughter and her friend worked a different table; A.J. worked even a different table. B.C. and Jess sold U of M shirts/sweatshirts. We all went out to eat afterwards.



















































Sunday, I led worship at my church! I had lifeline last night, I was a bit busy all day cooking and cleaning. I made roast, carrots, and potatoes for dinner, for desert I made sugar, choc. Chip and macadamia nut cookies. The Rains brought bread with a zucchini dip (Yummy) Faye brought a Marshmallow salad (Fabulous) and The Fouts brought a Chicken Casserole (Delicious) we played "Imagine If" after we were finished eating. The time went by so fast, before I knew it the night was over. I had a great evening!

Today is my housecleaning/laundry day. The house got cleaned yesterday so I just have to pick up and do laundry. A very easy morning for me, this afternoon I will be off to my Motor route. It is suppose to be a beautiful day here. I love doing the route this time of year. Tonight, Bo has wrestling practice, daddy normally takes him to this but I'm going to see how my husband is feeling. He was pretty sick this weekend with a bad cold. If I can get my papers on time I might be able to make it home in time to take him myself.

I have already gotten Jimmy and Jon fed and off to school, I have to get Bo up, fed and ready for school. I'd better run!

I am thankful for God's provision for my family. He is so very good to us.





Jesus said: "Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?" (Matthew 6:28b-30, KJV),



"Consider the lilies of the field,
how they grow, how they grow."

"Consider the birds in the sky,
How they fly, how they fly.

He clothes the lilies of the field.
He feeds the birds in the sky.
And he will feed those who trust him,
And guide them with His eye."

"Consider the sheep of his fold,
How they follow where he leads.
Though the path may wind across the mountains,
He knows the meadows where they feed."

"He clothes the lilies of the field.
He feeds the birds in the sky,
And he will feed those who trust him,
And guide them with his eye."

"Consider the sweet, tender children
Who must suffer on this earth..."

The pains of all of them he carried
From the day of his birth.
He clothes the lilies of the field,
He feeds the lambs in His fold,
And he will heal those who trust him,
And make their hearts as gold."


This is the way of the Master. He tells us plainly that he has given us weakness to bring us to Him. When we come unto Him, He teaches, counsels, and heals us, replacing evil with good, pouring Himself into us, a spiritual transfusion where His light replaces our darkness. The light He has put into us works its way through everything we know and feel and draws us to yet greater light.

One day, if we continue, we will be like Him, for His light will have chased every trace of darkness from us, and will have drawn into us all the light He has. I can't wait for that day I'm talking about, when I'm in heaven with my heavenly Father above.

Friday, March 09, 2007

Lifeline

Things have been pretty busy this week for me. Something had to go, so I had to give up journaling for a while. I'm trying very hard to stay faithful to exercising every day. Hopefully I'll have time in the near future to get back into journaling again.

Tomorrow I am working at a Wrestling tournament all day. It should be my children's last Saturday tournament.

A friend of A.J.'ss is spending the night tonight. I had to run them to his friend’s house so his friend could clean his room. It is about a 15 minute drive away. It took them about 45 minutes to clean the room. I have to run back out and get them. This is all the time I have for journaling today. When I get home I have to get clothes ready for everyone to wear tomorrow. We have to be at the U of M tomorrow at 9:00 a.m.

Sunday I have a group of people from our church coming over for some fellowshipping. Our church has a program called Lifeline. People sign up for different homes each month for the purpose of fellowshipping. The people in charge of the program asked me if I could do it at my house this month. It is only the first two Sunday's of the month from 6:00 until 8:30 p.m. last week was a lot of fun.

Here are some pictures of the group of people we had over.




Tuesday, March 06, 2007

My Family

I wanted to find the perfect poem to go along with who my family is. The poem I came up with fits my family to a tee. I put the poem I found at the bottom of this post after all the pictures of my beautiful and lovable family.

This is my little silly writings about my family. (I'm not a writer but I'll give it a try)

Our house is loud and full of fun; we never stop playing until the day is done. My house is full of hugs and kisses, wrestling, running, tickles and giggles. What I love most about my house is that it is not just a house; it is my castle, my home. I always allow friends in to play and to roam, it might not be the cleanest but it is O.K. It is full of God's love, forgiveness, and cheer. It is full of His grace, and the things I hold dear. I can't write down in this post all the wonderful things that I love about my family. I will say these words for everyone to hear: I love my family and friends alike, I love being a mom, a grandma and a wife. I wouldn't trade my life for anything in this world. I thank you my Savior my Father my friend, without you in my life, it would truly come to an end.

(I feel like I should have added; to the top of the porch, to the top of the wall, now dash away dash away dash away all) Hee, Hee



Here are the pictures from Jenna and B.C.'s Birthday party.


Jenna eating her first Birthday cake











Nana, Jenna and baby











Bec and Jenna







Papa and Jenna





My little grandson "Jack". I love his little smile. It brightens my day. Jack spent the night with Nana and Papa last night. He is down stairs eating pancakes with Bo.




A.J. enjoyed crawling around on the floor playing with Jenna.














This is my daughter-in-law and my best friend Jess with her $5000.00 smile. Jess just got her braces off not long ago.





This is Jenna with big brother Josh. Josh loves his baby sister.




I think B.C. liked his gifts. Hee, Hee Bo what are you doing in the picture again.


Josh, Bo and Jenna. This is Jenna's new stroller from her Gram and Granddad.



This is what I love most about my family; All the smiles and love. These smiles are not just for the pictures but this is what my family is all about.
These are some nice smiles, o.k. even if one is mine. Bec, Lori and Michele.

Our House

By Edgar Guest

We play at our house and have all sorts of fun,
An’ there’s always a game when supper is done;
An’ at our house there’s marks on the walls an’ the stairs,
An’ some terrible scratches on some of the chairs;
An’ ma says that our house is surely a fright,
But pa and I say that our house is all right.

At our house we laugh an’ we sing an’ we shout,
An’ whirl all the chairs and the tables about,
An’ I rassle my pa an’ I get him down too,
An’ he’s all out of breath when the fightin’ is through;
Am’ ma says our house is surely a sight,
But pa an’ I say that our house is all right.

I’ve been to houses with pa where I had
To sit in a chair like a good little lad,
An’ there wasn’t a mark on the walls an’ the chairs,
An’ the stuff that we have couldn’t come up to theirs;
An’ pa said to ma that for all of their joy
He wouldn’t change places and give up his boy.

They never have races nor rassles nor fights.
Coz they have no children to play with at nights;
An’ their walls are all clean and their curtains hang straight,
An’ everthing’s shiny an’ right up to date;
But pa says with all of its racket an’ fuss,
He’d rather by far live at our house with us.

Monday, March 05, 2007

Nothing but the blood of Jesus

My little Jenna benna is home and doing better. She stopped vomiting around 2:00 p.m. yesterday. I took Josh home at 9:00 p.m. and got to see for myself that she is doing o.k.. I wanted to thank all of you for your prayers and kind words concerning Jenna. It has been 20 years since we lost our son to crib death but I still get upset when one of the little ones get as sick as Jenna was. I know that it is all in God's hands, I do trust Him to take care of all situtions in my life, at times I try to take back control of things. I do have to say, I still get upset and fret about things I can do nothing about, I'm working on it. God was watching out for Jenna and brought her through for us.

Living for the simple things in life: Joshua's Story

Jim and Mrs. Jim,

My prayers are with you at this time with your loss.

Are you willing to cast the first stone?

One night in a church service a young woman felt the tug of God at her heart.
She responded to God's call and accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior.

The young woman had a very rough past, involving alcohol, drugs, and prostitution.
But, the change in her was evident. As time went on she became a faithful member of the church. She eventually became involved in the ministry, teaching young children.

It was not very long until this faithful young woman had caught the eye and heart of the pastor's son. The relationship grew and they began to make wedding plans. This is when the problems began.

You see, about one half of the church did not think that a woman with a past such as hers was suitable for a pastor's son. The church began to argue and fight about the matter.

So they decided to have a meeting. As the people made their arguments and tensions increased, the meeting was getting completely out of hand. The young woman became very upset about all the things being brought up about her past. As she began to cry the pastor's son stood to speak.

He could not bear the pain it was causing his wife to be. He began to speak and his statement was this:

"My fiancée’s past is not what is on trial here. What you are questioning is the ability of the blood of Jesus to wash away sin.

Today you have put the blood of Jesus on trial. So, does it wash away sin or not?"
The whole church began to weep as they realized that they had been slandering the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Too often, even as Christians, we bring up the past and use it as a weapon against our brothers and sisters. Forgiveness is a very foundational part of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. If the blood of Jesus does not cleanse the other person completely, then it cannot cleanse us completely. If that is the case, then we are all in a lot of trouble.

What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus! End of case!!!!

"Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved." Psalm 55:23

Saturday, March 03, 2007

Cast all your care upon Him for He cares for you. (1 Peter 5: 7)

Have you ever had a sleepless night when the cares of life, the stresses of your job, or some family crisis has had you so concerned that sleep left you? Just this past evening that happened to me. There were many things that weighed and are still weighing heavy on my soul, I woke up way before I had to get up for my route and I couldn’t go back to sleep. I came here to write a devotional, but erased it because I did not feel it was exactly what the Lord would have me to share. For starters, my little Jenna, (my Granddaughter) has been vomiting since Thursday evening. At this time Dad and Mom have her at the hospital were they have kept her all day. She was dehydrated and she is running a high fever. I think they plan on keeping her over night tonight. I have Josh, (my 8 year old grandson) he is so very upset about his baby sister. I have prayed with him and tried to comfort him and assure him that Jenna is in good hands. He really loves his baby sister.

Last night when sleep wouldn’t come again, I began to read some blogs until I could finally go back to bed. It was there that I began to pray and talk to the Lord about what was troubling me. I knew that the issues that concerned me were beyond what I could fix, and it was then that the words of 1 Peter 5:7 came to my mind, "Cast all your care upon Him for He cares for you." I simply prayed, "Lord, I trust You." I placed the situation in His hands. I felt such a great sense of peace. When the troubling situation would come back to mind I would begin to feel anxious, but as soon as I looked to the Lord and reminded myself to trust in Him the peace returned. I know God will take care of Jenna and the other situations in my life that are out of my control.


When I think of the situations that trouble me I still don't have the answers, but I know the One who does, I am going to spend tonight meditating on Psalm 91 especially verses 1 & 2 which say, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, "You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust” I will trust in Him tonight. He is able to do for me way beyond all I can ask or think (Ephesians 3:14-21)

Friday, March 02, 2007

My house cleaning Job!

It's been a very busy day today!

I had to work this morning at my house cleaning job, my route this afternoon, I had to go shopping after work for some much needed items. I went to pick up my grandson after shopping, he is going to spend the night. Bo and Josh have a soccer clinic at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow. I can't believe it is time for soccer already. Wrestling is almost over just a few more weeks and we are done until summer wrestling at the end of April.

I took some pictures at my house cleaning job this morning. One of the things I love about my house cleaning job is the view from the back window. I love just looking out at the lake and the animals. It is very peaceful!

God sure knew what He was doing when He created the world!









Thursday, March 01, 2007

My Awana Girls



Awana went so fast last night! Before I knew it, the night was over and I was home.

This is a picture of me and my group of Awana girls. I can't believe we only have 10 more weeks of club and the Awana year will be over. Many of the girls that I work with will move up to Guards next year. Booohoooo!

I have a busy day again today! I'm watching my adorable grandchildren this morning, also a friend of mine that sings with me in the Worship team will be coming over to look at some work he will be doing for us while we are on vaction. I have my route to do this afternoon, Bo has wrestling practice this evening, it is then off to work at 10:00 p.m. I think that just about fills my day.