Christmas at Loriannhouse's House!

The Jr. Christmas Cantata is over, the school concerts are done, the decorations are all up and my Christmas shopping is coming to and end. My Sailor received his Christmas package and my baby girl is coming home for good. Tonight, I'll be spending a bit of time wrapping presents but I wanted to take a minute and write about how much Christmas means to me. It's not the gifts that I get or the snow that is on the ground. It has nothing to do with that jolly man that you see at the malls.

This year for me it means a second chance. It means a chance to love, serve and show the people that are close to me how much they mean to me.

It is spending the money for someone to do one of my routes so I can spend that few extra hours with my husband during his vacation from work.

It is taking that second out of my day to listen to Boaz sing Silent night in German for the 10th time.

It is the chance to take that minute to make a cups of hot chocolate for the men in my life after they get done shoveling snow.

It is taking that second to listen to my grandson sing me his solo from the Christmas play, that one last time this year.

It is taking a minute to hug my boy's when they walk past me.

God has given me more time! I don't want to waste it on being upset or angry over things I can do nothing about. God opened up my eyes these last nine months as I battle with breast cancer. Each day I wake up. I thank Him for giving me one more day on this earth to serve Him and show other's how much I love them.

Don't waste your life on things that don't matter. Christ can change you today.

Christmas is Christ and His example to us! He loved us so much He gave His life so those who except Him will live forever. He died for me so I could have eternal life.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

John 3:16

This is my home and all the wonderful things the Lord has blessed me with.
My sliding glass door where I like to put my Christmas cards.
One of my living room walls with my son John relaxing on the coach.

Our Christmas Tree 2008.

My two new items my husband bought me for my mantel.

Our fireplace plus my full mantel.

Our living room with all the pretty lights and Jimmy relaxing on our love seat.

Last but not least, this little thing was passed down from generation to generation. My grandma made one of these for all of us kids growing up. After I got married, I wanted my children to have one. My mom was kind enough to make one for our children. My grandma would tie hard candy to this; I loved butterscotch. Down below is what is written on it.

December first till Christmas is the longest time of year
seems as though it will never get here.
How many more days till Christmas its so mighty hard to count.
So this little candy ribbon will tell the exact amount
Untie a candy everynight when you finish your evening meal.
Start at the bottom of your ribbon only one then stop.
Now when you do this daily Christmas Eve will be here by the time you reach the top.

Every year at Christmas when I pull this out; I remember my Grandma and what Christmas is really all about. The love that she brought, the closeness I always felt, I don't know how to write down what is in my heart. I know she loved us with all of her heart and wanted us to stay close. I want to pass that little bit along to my children and grandchildren.













This is my Grandfather and Grandmother in May after they got married in 1945, What an adorable couple. My Grandparents were so good to us kids; They would take us Up North to there Cabin on the lake every summer until my Grandmother got sick with cancer when I was a young girl. She died of Breast Cancer when she was 54; I was 13 at the time. My Grandfather died of cancer when he was 73; I was 24.

What have I been up to this month Next week Christmas at Loriannhouse's Place

We have been a bit busy this month we had to add steps to our back and front porch for our insurance copy.

Here are a few pictures

Why Jesus

JESUS was born,
that I might be born twice.

HE became poor,
that I might possess wealth.











HE became homeless,
that I might have a mansion.

HE was stripped,
that I always should have clothes.

HE was forsaken,
that I always should have friends.

HE was bound,
that I might have perfect liberty.

HE was saddened,
that I might have full joy.

HE descended,
that I should be lifted up.

HE became a servant,
that I might be a son forever.

HE was made sin,
that I should share HIS righteousness.

HE died,
that I should never taste eternal death.

HE will come down,
that I might go up.

All of this -- that HE might display
in me the riches of HIS grace,

and so I can dwell with God in heaven.

What God has done for Me

My quiet time thoughts~

He has only saved me from torment in hell because of my sins...
He has only sent His SON to die a horrible death for my sins...
He has only conquered death by rising from the dead...
He has only forgiven me for practially putting His Son on a cross...
He has only given me a new heart...
He has only cleansed me...
He has only given me new desires...
He has only given me a testimony...
He has only put me with a family that tests me, encourages me, and lifts me up...
He has only given me Godly friends to have sweet fellowship with...
He has only given me a letter 66 books long...
He has only let me experience true joy that only comes from fellowship with Him...

This list could go on forever...

Scripture I was in today!

giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. (Colossians 1:12-14 NIV)

giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. (Colossians 1:12 NIV)

in whom [Christ] we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. (Colossians 1:14 NIV)

For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness… (Colossians 1:13a NIV)

…and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves… (Colossians 1:13b NIV)

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory. (Ephesians 1:13b-14 NIV)

What has God done for you? Great things already!

A Different Christmas Poem

A Different Christmas Poem
By Michael Marks


The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.
Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.
My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know, then the
sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.
My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.
"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,
"Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts..
To the window that danced with a warm fire's light,
Then he sighed and he said "Itʼs really all right,
I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."
"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm proud to stand here like my fatherʼs before me.
My Gramps died at ' Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers."
My dad stood his watch in the jungles of ' Nam ',
And now it is my turn and so, here I am.
I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.

Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red, white, and blue... an American flag.
I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home.
I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..
Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall."
"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."
"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."
Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.
For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."

What Christmas means to Me

C is for the Christ child who was born nearly 2,000 years ago in a manger in Bethlehem.

"And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS." Luke 1:31

H is for the HOPE that Jesus brings to all who believe in Him and trust Him with their salvation.

"By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God." Romans 5:2

I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11

R is for resurrection of Jesus Christ who was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, was both man and God, died on the cross for all of our sins, and then was raised from the dead (resurrected) and is now sitting at the right hand of God in heaven.

"For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." 2 Corinthians 5:21

I is for Israel who God chose to bring forth the promised saviour of the world.

"Of this man's seed hath God according to [his] promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:" Acts 13:23

S is for the salvation that Jesus offers to all who are willing to confess their sin, believe in Him, and confess their belief in Jesus with their mouth.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16

T is for the empty tomb on Easter morning.

" He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you." Matthew 28:6,7

M is for the mercy God has shown the world by sending His only Son to suffer for our sins and bridge the gap between man and God.

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16

A is for our AWESOME GOD who loves us all unconditionally.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13

S is for the shining light that Jesus brought
to the world!

"Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." John 8:12

I pray you all have a very "MERRY CHRISTMAS" and a "Happy New Year" from me to all of you!

I've been pretty busy since Thanksgiving, with not a lot of time for blogging. I started my radiation treatments Wednesday, that, with trying to keep my house up, help with Jr. choir, sing on the worship team, work.... has left me with no time.

It will be very light postings until after the first of the year. This week Caty and I will be trying to put the stage together for the Jr. Choir Christmas Cantata this weekend. I then need to start my Christmas shopping. The only person that I have done is my Sailor because I needed to get his package out to him by Thanksgiving if we even had a choice of him getting it by Christmas. It is taking about a month and a half for him to get our packages.

Happy Thanksgiving from our home to all of You!

From Living for the simple things in life

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to all of you!

I pray you all have a Happy and safe Thanksgiving.

I have been very busy getting my house ready to have everyone over tomorrow for Thanksgiving. We will be having 27 guest over tomorrow. My son and my daughter-in-law helped me come up with the menu and they called everyone as to what they should bring.

What a grand day it will be!

This is my our menu unless I think of something else that sounds good when I'm out at the store this morning.
Turkey (Jim, Lori, Bret and Jess)
Mashed Potatoes (Jim and Lori)
Stuffing (Jim and Lori)
Biscuits and gravy (Mom and Dad)
Cheesy Potatoes (Jim and Lori)
Green bean Casserole (Jim and Lori)
Corn Casserole (Bret & Jess)
Green Salad (Jim and Lori)
White Salad (Dad & Mom)
Veggie tray (Grandma H)
Relish tray (Matt & Jen)
Homemade rolls (Bret & Jess)
Lots of deserts
Pumpkin pie (Don and Kim)
Apple pie (Don and Kim)
Cherry pie (Don and Kim)
Pecan pie (Donnie)
Cupcakes (Grandma H and Mike)
cookies (Jim and Lori)
coffee with all the good stuff (Donnie)

I will be very busy the rest of the day and I am sure I won't be able to post tomorrow. I just wanted to wish all of you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.

I am Thankful for so many things the list could go on forever. I have posted many posts about that this week.

I think the Word sums up what we should be thankful for.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you

My baby girl made it home safely last night! I get to enjoy her for a week. My son Aaron is overseas on his seven month tour in the Navy right now. I am sad he won't be able to be with us tomorrow but I'm so very proud that he was willing to serve our Country. You will be missed Aaron!

This truly will be a great Thanksgiving for me.

Be Thankful as Paul was Thankful

I really want to focus all my thoughts this week on being thankful as Paul was thankful.

We don't hear Paul say, "for health and strength and daily food, we give you thanks, O Lord." Paul makes no reference to the blessings we often speak of when we offer thanks--no mention of friends and family here. Usually we give thanks for something: I am thankful for good health, an education, a loving family, good friends, an autumn maple tree flaming red. We have been taught from childhood to "count our blessings," to be grateful for what we have.

In contrast, Paul invites us to be grateful. Simply be grateful. It doesn't mean we don't rejoice in the blessings we can count, but that our sense of gratitude is not dependent upon these things.

"Rejoice in the Lord always." With these words Paul helps us live into a different understanding of what gratitude is, of who God is and who we are.

Paul invites us to see God in a different way. I want to see "thankfulness" as Paul has seen it. This is a wonderful example for us to follow.

Phillipians 4:4-9:

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

"If the only prayer you ever say in your life is thank you, it will be enough."
- Meister Eckhart, (1260?-1320?)

"Throughout history wise men and women have encouraged us to feel grateful for what we have. Why? Very simply because gratitude makes us feel good. When you're feeling grateful, your mind is clear, and therefore you have access to your greatest wisdom and common sense. You see the big picture."
- Richard Carlson, Ph.D., (1995)

I am thankful that God has given me hands to type my devotion, eyes to see the scriptures and lips to speak to others about what God has done for me.

Being Thankful

With Thanksgiving coming up, I am reminded of God's goodness to me. My daily devotion today is on just that; Giving thanks to God.

I have so many reasons for being thankful to God. He has done so many wonderful things for me. Even if He didn’t do anything here on earth for me, The assurance of my salvation is good enough. Knowing that because of what He did for me on the cross has provided me a place in heaven if I except Him as my Lord and Savior is a good enough reason to give Him many thanks. Giving thanks to God is not an optional thing for the Christian. I am thankful to God for His love, care for me, and His provision.

I have many reasons for giving thanks to God but the scriptures gives many reasons why I should be thankful to God.

Here is a partial list from the Bible:

God's offer of salvation:

Psalms 50:23, 106:47, 118:21, 142:7, Jonah 2:9, 1 Corinthians 15:57, 2 Corinthians 2:14. 4:15, 9:15, Colossians 1:12, 2 Thessalonians 2:13 God's works and deeds:
1 Chronicles 16:8, Psalms 26:7, 75:1, 105:1, 107:22, 139:14, Isaiah 12:4, 25:1, Revelation 11:17

God's help for us:

Psalms 28:7, 107:8, 15, 21, 31, Daniel 2:23, Romans 1:8, 6:17, 1 Corinthians 1:4, 2 Corinthians 9:11, 12, 1 Thessalonians 2:13, 3:9, 2 Thessalonians 1:3, 1 Timothy 1:12

God's character: (goodness, loving kindness, righteousness, truth, and faithfulness)

1 Chronicles 16:34, 35, 41, 2 Chronicles 20:21, Jeremiah 33:11, Ezra 3:11, Psalms 7:17, 52:9, 106:1, 107:1 8, 15, 21, 31, 118:1, 29, 119:7, 136:1, 2, 3, 26, 138:2, Isaiah 25:1, 38:18, 19

For believers thankfulness should flow naturally out of our mouths. Jesus suffered the penalty for what He did not deserve (all my sin), then freely offered to me the reward (eternal life) that I did not deserve. What an awesome God!


My goal is to be transformed into the image of Jesus Christ. I want to be more Christ like. As a model for us, Jesus often gave thanks for food and answered prayer.
The Bible does tell us to give thanks in everything. I often complain to God about all the bad things that have happened to me - things I did not deserve, and definitely did not want. How can I be thankful for everything? I need to first remember I have a God that answers prayer, I should never be anxious about any situation. Second, although things may seem to be bad, I am told that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose. Some examples of how God uses "bad" things in our lives can be seen from my personal story about Joshua, my husband's brain tumor and even more recent, my battle with cancer. God used and is using this to work in our lives to better serve Him.


Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth.
Serve the LORD with gladness;
Come before Him with joyful singing.
Know that the LORD Himself is God;
It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving,
And His courts with praise.
Give thanks to Him; bless His name.
For the LORD is good;
His lovingkindness is everlasting,
And His faithfulness to all generations.

I'll be back real Soon!

I'm still cleaning.....I'll be back as soon as I'm done! Hopefully by the end of the week if not sooner!

Cleaning for the Holiday's

I've been busy, busy, busy cleaning up my house. I started my holiday cleaning. I started with my front closet. I donated or threw away two big garbage bags full of clothes and junk. The guest room is all clean and ready for Rebecca's visit. My next stop is my boy's room! I have worked my way around the whole down stair of our house. The basement will be next! I'll make sure I take some before and after pictures.

This is the guest room. All neat and clean and ready for our daughter's visit.This is my front closet that I spent all evening on.
Different shot of the front closet.
This is the front view of my closet.
This is my living room. My husband moved all the furniture for me last night so I could wipe down all the windows and clean under everything. I then took the shop vac and went around baseboard and was able to get all the little things hiding in the cracks.

This is my Kitchen; The colors from the seventies but I love the size of the kitchen. I've been working hard to clean my floors and bookshelves. This is the rest of my kitchen. I'll show you a picture of the dining room when I get my carpet cleaned next week.

I am Thankful for so many Things

Have you let someone know how thankful you are for them today? : )












I love Thanksgiving and the Christmas holiday. I love getting together with family that I might only see once a year. It is that time that I get to see all my nieces and nephews, my sister and brothers, my Dad and mom and adopted sisters. It is always loud and crazy but I have to say I love every minute of it.

Here are a few things that I am thankful for today.

1. I am thankful that I have faith in God; for His sacrifice on the cross for my sins ; for His unselfish act of Love.
2. I am thankful for my Husband, my children and grandchildren and their good health.
3. I am thankful for my church, were I can go and Worship my Lord and Savior.
4. I am thankful that I get to see my daughter soon.
5. I am thankful that step-dad is doing better.
6. I am thankful for all of my friends, church friends, soccer friends and all the friends I have made through blogging.
7. I am thankful for my home, my front porch, were it has a swing that I can sit on to read my Bible and drink my glass of tea. It is a little cold for this right now.
8. I am thankful for all the beauty of nature- I love all the fall colors.
9. I am thankful that God still sits on the Throne regardless as to who are President is.
10. I am thankful for all the people in the Armed Services that help protect our freedoms. (Thank you Aaron and friends)
11. I am even Thankful for my Cancer; Because God is really doing a mighty work in my heart.
12. I am thankful for the jobs that the Lord has provided for me.

What are you Thankful for today?

Lots of Fun!

I've been keeping myself pretty busy lately but I wanted to post these recent pictures of my babies and give a little update on Bo's soccer team plus the Awana Grand Prix.

Boaz' soccer team finished second in his division. The boy's did a great job this year. I think Boaz is going to play indoor soccer starting in January. It has become a year round sport.

Boaz won first place in the Awana grand prix. That is first place in the T & T boy's and first place over all. He beat me by seconds, darn it. I wanted my name on the big trophy. LOL!! I have to get a picture of the trophy next Wednesday. He even wanted my favorite color (RED). I got stuck with green. I wonder if that is why I didn't win? Hmmmmm, there is always next year. Hee, Hee

I'm feeling good. I'm getting more and more energy back every day. YEA!!! Enough said about that.
This is Boaz the Pirate. He doesn't look like a very friendly pirate in the pictures.

This is, Donnie, my daughter-in-law's brother and the one who made the pirate costumes. This is Boaz and his hearty mate Joshua. Ahoy mate! This is my oldest grandson, Joshua. The blond pirate.
Oh no, it's Ba ba ba Batman! You look good, Ethan. This is my middle grandson.
Oh my! Here is my little Bumble bee, Jenna. She is so cute! Buzzzz! When we walked up to the doors, Jenna, would say. "Thanks for the candy". I had so much fun with her and the boy's.

Here is a picture of my lovely daughter and her work mates. They got to decorate their work stations to win a prize. They did walking with the stars! My star is the beautiful, and tallest women, she is the second one in, on the right hand side.

Pumpkin Pasties

I have so much to share about my weekend! BUT no time to share today.

My husband made these yummy little treats last week. I thought I'd share the recipe.



2 eggs, slightly beaten
3/4 cup sugar
1 1 lb. can pumpkin
(or 2 cups fresh, roasted in the oven then pressed
through a strainer to save your Pumpkin Juice to drink!)
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ginger
1/4 tsp. cloves
1 2/3 cups evap. milk (1 can)
1/2 tsp. allspice
9 oz pie crust pastry (enough for two single standard pie crusts)

Bake the pie filling only (no crust) in a large casserole dish in hot oven (425 degrees) for 15 minutes. Keep oven door closed and reduce temp to moderate (350 degrees F/180 degress Celsuis) and continue baking for 45 minutes or until table knife inserted in center of dish comes out clean. Cool on wire rack.

Make or purchase pie crust pastry. Roll thin and cut into circles approx 4" in diameter. Put a spoonful of the cool pumpkin mixture towards one side of the center of the circle. Fold over the crust into a half-circle and firmly crimp the edges closed. Slice three small slits in the top for venting, place on a greased cookie sheet, and bake only until crust is a light golden-brown. Great served at room-temperature, then you don't have to worry about your guests possibly burning their mouths from the steaming hot pumpkin inside! :)

I'm singing for all the world to HEAR! God Is Good… All the Time! He’s put a song of Praise in this heart of mine!!!!!!

I feel so good this morning, I thought I'd post this on both of my blogs today.

WooooHooooo!!! No more Chemo, no more chemo, no more chemo!! It felt so good to wake up and remember I don't have to go to chemo. It's been a long seven months but the worst is over.

Today I feel like dancing, I'm gonna dance the night away. Oh yes I feel like dancing.... I’m walking on sunshine, wooah I’m walking on sunshine, wooah
I’m walking on sunshine, wooah And don’t it feel good!! It feels GREAT!

I have the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart, down in my heart to stay! Yes, I'm so happy, so very happy I have the love of Jesus in my heart. I can't even begin to write down how I'm feeling today. Relief, joy, full of life.....Oh my, I could go on forever. Well, I'm just really, really happy.

I have slept more in the last week then I have in a long time "BUT" this morning, I feel well rested and really, really good.

Yea!!!

Have a blessed weekend all! I do believe I'm going to.

I'll never Forget

Joshua would have turned twenty-two yesterday! I pulled his picture book out and looked through it; as I do each year. It sure doesn’t seem like it has been 22 years since I had him. My husband stayed home from work yesterday but we never mentioned Joshua. My husband got the kids off to school and believe it or not, I stayed in bed until 10:00 a.m. I have been a bit tired lately. I felt almost normal when I woke up. God has healed our hearts over the years but you never forget about your children.
My boy's and daddy carving pumpkins.

Jimmy, John and Bo's carved pumpkins.

We had a bit of a busy evening. Boaz had soccer practice. While he was at practice my husband and I had to run and get paint for my Awana car. The paint he bought last week from Rider's hobbie shop was dried out. The race is on Saturday so we really needed to get the paint so my car will be ready. Boaz is our last Bo in Awana; this is his last year to race as an Awana clubber. After getting Boaz from soccer, we spent the rest of the evening carving pumpkins. Jimmy, John and Bo carved their pumpkins; while daddy helped. I got the job of picking through the pumpkin yuck for seeds. We finally got all done around 10:00 p.m. We had a fun time creating more memories.


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

My life is so Good!

Things are getting back to normal around our home now. Aaron called from the ship on Tuesday. He is in the middle of the Indian Ocean right now. He said that he is going to Bible study on Wednesday evenings. He wrote this in his email.

Aaron wrote "i went to bible study last night, they taught about building on the foundation. like you have to build down, before you go up. the higher you go, the deeper you go. it was really good. Rob and I got 1 person to come to bible study with us and hopefully two for Sunday service". I asked Aaron what he was learning on Sunday mornings. He wrote "last Sunday we went over punishment for sins, judgement day and other stuff along the same lines, we worked out of 1 kings for most of it". How that blessed my heart to hear him talking about spiritual things.

The holiday's are normally my favorite time of year. My brother called today to let me know that he won't be having Thanksgiving at his house. We have spent at least the last five years together as a family. I understand that he and his family have to give up a lot of time to get their home ready to have all of us over. The family is really to big for that anyway. Many of our kids have kids and kids have boy friends.... At first, I was very sad about this. I love spending time with family. Who knows how much longer any of us have? Regardless of how I feel, my home is just not big enough to have everyone here. Now that I have had time to think about it. I decided I am not going to let it rob me of my joy. I have been happy all week because tomorrow is my last Chemo treatment. Hip, Hip Hooray! I have so much to be Thankful for this year, regardless if things change or not.

For starters, my baby girl is coming home for Thanksgiving. I talked to Becca today. My darling daughter is doing fabulous! We talked about all the things we are going to do when she is here. Bec is even going to give me my first hair cut. I think it might be long enough when she comes to at least get a little trim. Could a mother be anymore blessed!

Aaron and Becca won't be coming home for Christmas. BooHOO! I'm finally adjusting to all of this. I understand that my children might not always be here with me for the holiday's or even live around me. I know they really wants to be home with us but it will be o.k. Our bond goes much deeper than the miles between us.

As for me! I've been pretty busy with the Jr. Choir Christmas Cantata right around the corner plus everything else I am involved in. I've just been really busy! Our Awana grand prix is November 2nd so there are cars that need to be painted. I also love spending time with my family and friends; it brings me much joy to do so! With Thanksgiving coming up and Christmas right around the corner, my paper route has been booming. Let's just say "BIG PAPERS" lots of adds. I'm not complaining, it sure keeps me busy this time of year. By the time November hits, I'll have to start delivering my advances ahead of time on Sunday mornings. It normally only lasts until January.

I'd better run and get Boaz from soccer practice! His team is 5-2 right now. He has three more games to play still.

I almost forgot the most important thing of all! My husband bought me A carrot cake and muffin on Saturday. I think it was just because he loves me. Could a woman ask for anything more!

Life is good!

This reminds me of what God has done for me:

John 3:16 says that He loved the world so much that He gave His only Son. His Son is Jesus Christ. God saw that we had all sinned and that sin must be punished, but He loves us too much to let us all die. To account for our sins, He sent Jesus to come into this world to die so we wouldn't have to. We have done nothing to deserve this, but it is a gift from God. Jesus came to this earth and not only revealed more to us about the character of God, but, took our place in death for our sins.

The gift I received from my husband was a very thoughtful gift. I did nothing that would cause my husband to buy me the cake and bring it up to church while I was working with the Jr. Choir. He is just a very loving, precious man.

The gift that the Lord has given us, is way beyond what I can even imagine. It was a gift from God. I didn't deserve it and did nothing to earn it. I am so thankful to Him for giving me the gift of salvation.

Living for the simple things in life: Being Thankful

The two kinds of Wisdom

This morning in my time with the Lord I focused on Wisdom.

“For the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God” (1 Corinthians 3:19).

As I started seaching the scriptures, I began to reflect on how little any one person knows and how limited one person’s wisdom is.

I would like to say I am good at what I do, I have gained wisdom and foresight regarding my special interests and experience. But if I were suddenly placed in a new, unfamiliar position or found myself in a foreign city unable to speak the language, not knowing how to even find a bathroom, I would become aware of my limitations. My Knowledge and experience would not help me. I would need someone to help me.


Compared to God I have next to zero knowledge of Wisdom. In this world with billions of people I wonder how much wisdom each person possesses?

I started thinking about the wisdom of God. He knows everything and is all wise. Even if I compiled all the wisdom of everyone in the world and measured it against God’s wisdom, it would be almost nothing.

Also, when I remember that everything I know and everything I have comes from God anyway, how can I think that I hold much wisdom, this sure humbled me this morning.

I remember the “wise advice” Job’s friends gave him when he had lost everything? They thought they were very wise. Job himself questioned God about why this disaster happened to him. God was not impressed by any of them. ( Job 38 to 41)

What is wisdom? This is what I found the Bible to say about wisdom,

“The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 1:7).

When I begin to recognize that my life is about God, not about me - that is the beginning of wisdom.

How do I get more wisdom? One way is to read God’s Word and to learn from Him.

“Nothing is perfect except your words. Oh, I how I think about them all day long. They make me wiser than my enemies, because they are my constant guide. They make me even wiser than the aged” (Psalms 119:96-100).

I need to fear God. I need to know God and the only way I can know God is by reading His word and obeying the things that are in it.

Wisdom from Above and From Below

Jam 3:13-17 (Phi) Is there some wise and understanding man among you? Then let his life be a shining example of the humility that is born of true wisdom. But if your heart is full of bitter jealousy and rivalry, then do not boast and do not deny the truth. You may acquire a certain wisdom, but it does not come from above--it comes from this world, from your own lower nature, even from the devil. For wherever you find jealousy and rivalry you also find disharmony and all other kinds of evil. The wisdom that comes from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, approachable, full of merciful thoughts and kindly actions, straightforward, with no hint of hypocrisy.

1 Cor 1:18-31 (Phi) The preaching of the cross is, I know, nonsense to those who are involved in this dying world, but to us who are being saved from that death it is nothing less than the power of God. It is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the prudence of the prudent will I reject." For consider, what have the philosopher, the writer, and the critic of this world to show for all their wisdom? Has not God made the wisdom of this world look foolish? For it was after the world in its wisdom had failed to know God, that he in his wisdom chose to save all who would believe by the "simple- mindedness" of the gospel message. For the Jews ask for miraculous signs and the Greeks an intellectual panacea, but all we preach is Christ crucified--a stumbling-block to the Jews and sheer nonsense to the gentiles... for God's "foolishness" is wiser than men.... But God has chose what the world calls foolish to shame the wise... that no man may boast in the presence of God.... And this makes us see the truth of the scripture: "He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord."

1 Cor 3:19-21 (Phi) Let no one be under any illusion over this. If any man among you thinks himself one of the world's clever ones, let him discard his cleverness that he may learn to be truly wise. For this world's cleverness is stupidity to God. It is written: "He that taketh the wise in their craftiness", and again, "The Lord knoweth the reasonings of the wise, that they are vain." So let no one boast of men.

I have come to the conclusion this morning, even if I add up all my wisdom with the wisdom of everyone I know, it will be nothing compared to the wisdom of God. I need to be in the Word to grow in Godly Wisdom.

God cause me to want to read your Word more, build in me a healthy fear and reverence for You. Cause me to soak up the wisdom of Your Word - the only perfect words. Help me to be humble. Amen.

My busy but rewarding Weekend!

My girls night out pictures!

Here is a picture of my nieces. My brother Derik's girls, minus one.
This is a picture of my two sister-in-laws, my daughter-in-law, My daughter-in-law Mom and ME!
At times I have no idea how I get through the day. I had to leave church early today so I could take Boaz to his soccer game in Wixom at 1:30 p.m. After the game, I got home just in time to drop Boaz off at my sons house so us girls could have a little girls night out. Dinner and a movie! I went with five of my nieces, two of my sister-in-laws, my daughter-in-law and my daughter-in-laws mom. I even got to have my own bag of popcorn. When I go to the movies with my family, Bo and I always share a bag of popcorn. I think he decided I eat to much popcorn before the movie starts because he told me we should wait until the movie starts before we eat our popcorn. LOL!
I had a great time with the girls.

Bo's team lost again today. they are now 5-2. I just love to watch them play. I love being a soccer mom and grandma. My grandson's Josh and Ethan both play on a team too. Ethan scored his first goal yesterday. Way to go Ethan!! I am so grateful I was able to be their to see him. Josh did a great job as well! Two more weeks of soccer and our season will be over. Soccer has been good for one other thing. I use to be so nervous about driving to area different cities. I can really say, I no longer get all nerved up. If I get lost, I'll just ask for directions. LOL!!

I had a wonderful weekend!

Update on Aaron and Rebecca/ A double Blessing

My son Aaron is on his seven months deployment overseas right now. I receive emails from him about twice a week. I was so blessed by a line in his email this morning, I just felt the need to share!

Aaron wrote this to me this morning:

"I just got a new second class in my shop and he is a licensed pastor. he is really cool, i go to church and bible study with him. he let me borrow his bible till i get one. I'm starting in Genesis and working my way back".

I can't even begin to describe how much this email blessed my heart. When we raise our children we can only pray that they will follow Christ when they are out of our home and on their own. I am blessed!

Home for the Holiday!

My daughter Rebecca is coming home for Thanksgiving. We just booked her flight! Woohoo! I am so excited! I haven't seen Becca since two weeks after my surgery. I just need to see my girl! I can't wait to give her a real live hug! I love hugs!!I am a Blessed Mama.

I had my baby girl on my mind when my husband and I went to Aldis grocery shopping yesterday. I was so excited about her coming I bought a turkey for our Thanksgiving dinner. LOL!! I can't believe my husband let me buy it. Needless to say, once I figured out that Thanksgiving is over a month and a half away. My husband and I decided that maybe we should cook that turkey now and buy another one next month. I don't know what I was a thinking!

I'd better run I have lots to do! I need to decorate my house for Thanksgiving.

PTL!! Our God Reigns! I am a blessed and happy woman!

Life After Chemo

Just some thoughts: These are some questions that I have been asked. "Do you think about your cancer everyday and are you scared? I can honestly say "NO." I've always been fairly upbeat and positive about everything. I have my times but I don't think excessive worrying is going to do much good in this situation. I can honestly say there are times I forget that I have cancer. I turned all of this over to the Lord months ago. Even this last bought with reaction I was having to the Taxol treatments. I really didn't know what to do but it was all in His hands. I am now on a Chemo called Abraxane. It is a form of Taxol but without all the side effects that I have been having.

After the shock, I can really say I've had such a sense of peace about everything: the diagnosis, the treatment and all my caregivers. For that I am so very thankful. I think I mentioned way back in the beginning that I just feel this is something in my life I've got to get through. I've talked to so many folks who do nothing but feel SHEER PANIC. That would be horrible. In some ways I'm a totally different person than I was in March of last year when CANCER became such an integral part of my life, but I think the differences are positive rather than negative. I may not have been a worrier, but I've definitely always been an over-achiever. If I did it; it had to be the best. You know that saying "Stop and smell the roses?" Hey, that's what life is all about. Slow down, don't fret the small stuff and appreciate/cherish/embrace every positive aspect of your life. Do what you can -- the rest is going to be there tomorrow -- and if not tomorrow, the next day. Somehow I just never learned that before now. I have learned to take "One day at a time".

LIFE AFTER CHEMO: I will start my radiation treatments three weeks after my last Chemo. My last Chemo is on October 24Th, 08. I should be finished with all of my treatments the middle of January 09.

My hair continues to grow and thicken each week. It is about 1/8 inches long at this time. From what I've read -- and, believe me, I've read alot -- research is trying to find a chemo treatment that won't cause hair loss. I'm here to tell you that would be a GOOD thing! It's pretty traumatic looking at your BALD self in the mirror. I think/I pray I've handled it pretty well, but so many ladies really have a major problem with this. I CAN REALLY UNDERSTAND WHY! I've searched everything that I could get my hands on to find out how fast my hair will grow back. I wonder if fertilizer would help the head hair? OK, I'm just being silly! There is little to no information on how quickly hair grows back other than 6 months to a year. I wanted to know how much there would be after a month, two months, three months, etc. Time will tell!

I'm sorry I'm so far behind in my updates. Life didn't stop for me when I found out I had cancer. It really was just the beginning! I'm busy enjoying my family and helping others in need. I praise the Lord every day that He is not finished with me. I think back on my life before March 17, 08. My pre-cancer days. I'm trying to learn and grow from my mistakes and I am putting the past, in the past. I don't know what the future holds but I do know that I am going to enjoy each and every day that the Lord give me.

There is life after Cancer/Chemo.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY BROTHER!

HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY

WE LOVE YOU

Love
Lori and family

Why so many Birthday Posts?

I'm sure your all wondering why it always seems like I am posting someone in my family's Birthday.

Well, this is why!

I have three sister's.

My older sister, is 46; She has 8 children and 7 grandchildren.

I have 7 children, I am 45; One died of crib death when he was three months old (I posted about a while back) I have 3 grandchildren.

I have two younger sister's; They have no children yet.

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

Living for the simple things in life: A little more about Me

I have two brother's

My little bit younger brother is 43; He has 7 children and 4 Grandchildren, Plus grandchild on the way.

My youngest brother is 33; He has 5 children and one child on the way.

Christmas time is wonderful!! Yes, we all still get together at my Mom and Step-dad's house.

I'm doing a happy dance Today!

I'm doing a happy dance today!

I'm soooo happy very happppppy. I'm on a different Chemo. NOOOOO meds! I feeeellllllll ggggrrrreeeaattttt!

I'll blog all about it later but I wanted to update my blog right away.

4 more Chemos to go!!! Woooohooooo!!!

My Fall Schedule

The school year has started out with a bang! I have two freshmen and a 6th grader still in school. It took me a few weeks to get back into the swing of things but I am enjoying all the action. Bo is in Soccer, he has had two games already. He is on a travel team so we will be traveling a bit. Last week, and this weeks games were home. Next week we will be traveling to Howell. Bo's team is 2-0 so far. This pretty much ties up our Tuesday and Thursday evenings for practice and Saturday or Sunday afternoon games. I just love watching him play.

I've been exercising everyday, I also try to mow the lawn when it needs it and get as much extra exercise in as I can. They say Chemo patients have a tendency to gain weight when they are on steroids. I have still kept my weight to a twenty pound weight loss. Exercising also helps if you are going through a hard time. My spirits have been up and I see things in a whole new light. Even with my boy on his seven months deployment and my daughter being in Texas I am doing pretty good.

My twins are conditioning with their dad for their up coming wrestling season. They condition three days a week. At first, I thought the boy's weren't going to be able to handle it. I really think they enjoy working out with their dad. I'll write about their season when it begins.

Our Wednesday evening programs starts up next week. I won't be working in Awana this year. I'll be taking the year off and going to Bible Study with my husband. I will be helping out in Jr. Choir again this year. It will start up the first Saturday in October.

I have two cleaning jobs that I do now, one of them is on Tuesday and one is on Wednesday. This is only every other week. This is in addition to my 2 motor routes and my Janitors job. I like to stay busy! The extra house cleaning jobs don't affect my family because they are all in school now. I think I have my schedule for the Fall and Winter months pretty well down now.

Yes, I'm still singing on our Worship team at church. We are starting up a new service starting tomorrow. It is a full contemporary service in addition to a Blended/contemporary service. I will be singing on our Contemporary service at
11:00 a.m. each week. I'm so excited to see what the Lord has in store for our church now. I pray this brings in a lot more people. I'll update what the Lord is doing in a few months.

Well, I'm off to my Janitors job.

20 Ways To Maintain A Healthy Level Of Insanity

20 Ways To Maintain A Healthy Level Of Insanity

1. At Lunch Time, Sit In Your Parked Car With Sunglasses on and
point a Hair Dryer At Passing Cars. See If They Slow Down.

2. Page Yourself Over The Intercom. Don't Disguise Your Voice.

3. Every Time Someone Asks You To Do Something,

ask If They Want Fries with that.

4. Put Your Garbage Can On Your Desk And Label it "In".

5. Put Decaf In The Coffee Maker For 3 Weeks Once Everyone has
Gotten Over Their Caffeine Addictions, Switch to Espresso.

6. In The Memo Field Of All Your Checks, Write " For Smuggling
Diamonds".

7. Finish All Your sentences with "In Accordance With The
Prophecy".

8. Don't use any

punctuation.

9. As Often As Possible, Skip Rather Than Walk.

10. Order a Diet Water whenever you go out to eat, with a
serious face.

11. Specify That Your Drive-through Order Is "To Go".

12. Sing Along At The Opera.

13. Go To A Poetry Recital. And Ask Why The Poems Don't Rhyme?

14. Put Mosquito Netting Around Your Work Area and Play tropical
Sounds All Day.

15. Five Days In Advance, Tell Your Friends You Can't Attend
Their Party Because
You're Not In the Mood.

16. Have Your Co-workers Address You By Your Wrestling Name,
Rock Bottom.

17. When The Money Comes Out The ATM, Scream "I Won! I Won!"

18. When Leaving The Zoo, Start Running Towards The Parking lot,
Yelling
"Run For Your Lives! They're Loose!"

19. Tell Your Children Over Dinner, "Due To The Economy, We Are
Going To Have To Let One Of You Go."

20. And The Final Way To Keep A Healthy Level Of Insanity .. SMILE>>

Learning to be content in all Areas of my Life

Contentment is a state I want to be in everyday of my life. With the help of God's words I am getting there.

Contentment by William Cowper
(Phillipians, iv.11)

Fierce passions discompose the mind,
As tempests vex the sea,
But calm, content and peace we find,
When, Lord, we turn to Thee.

In vain by reason and by rule
We try to bend the will;
For none but in the Saviour's school
Can learn the heavenly skill.

Since at His feet my soul has sate,
His gracious words to hear,
Contented with my present state,
I cast on Him my care.

"Art thou a sinner, soul?" He said,
"Then how canst thou complain?
How light thy troubles here, if weigh'd
With everlasting pain!

"If thou of murmuring wouldst be cured,
Compare thy griefs with mine!
Think what my love for thee endured,
And thou wilt not repine.

"'Tis I appoint thy daily lot,
And I do all things well;
Thou soon shalt leave this wretched spot,
And rise with me to dwell.

"In life my grace shall strength supply,
Proportion'd to thy day;
At death thou still shalt find me nigh,
To wipe thy tears away."

Thus I, who once my wretched days
In vain repinings spent,
Taught in my Saviour's school of grace,
Have learnt to be content.

Contentment

"Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:11-13

"Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, 'Teacher, what shall we do?'
And he said to them, 'Collect no more than what is appointed for you.' Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, 'And what shall we do?' So he said to them, 'Do not intimidate anyone or accuse falsely, and be content with your wages.'” Luke 3:12-14

"Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition." 1 Timothy 6:6-9

Reasons for Contentment

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil; for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psalm 23

"Let your conduct be without covetousness;

be content with such things as you have.

For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

So we may boldly say: 'The Lord is my helper;
I will not fear. What can man do to me?'” Hebrews 13:5-6

Hindrances to contentment

"He [Jesus] turned and said to Peter, 'Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.'" Matthew 16-23

"...all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus." Philippians 2:21

"... in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!
"...all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But you must continue in the things which you have learned..." 2 Timothy 3:1-14

His way to contentment

"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world." 1 John 2:15-17

"And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15

"For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body...." Philippians 3:20

No man knows the time or the Day!

I won't write about my personal life on this blog today. There are so many wonderful posts giving tribune to the 9/11 victims today. I feel for all the families that have lost loved ones to this tragic event.

We have no assurance today won't be our last day here on earth. We need to live each day as if it were. Those people got up as if it were just another day, not knowing it would be their last.

We have read and heard about all the calls that were made to loved ones from the airplanes and the Towers. We can make a change in our lives today. When we leave our homes, do we have any idea if we will return? We could get in a car accident or have a heart attack, anything could happen.(Do you think those people thought someone would take over their plane, or a plane would crash into their building) Look what happened to my 3 month old baby; I left for work, two hours later he was dead in his sleep.

I am going to start treating people as if this will be the last time I might see them. . I spent a lot of time with my husband and children this weekend. I put things aside that I could do when they were gone to work or at school.

What if you knew today was the last time you would see or talk to your loved ones, friends, co-workers, would you treat them any different? Would you tell them about Christ? Would you be a little kinder to them? Would you take the time to just listen? Would you take the time to call someone you haven't talked to in a while to tell them how much they mean to you? What about that person you might be fighting with, if you knew this was your last day, would you call them to make it right? Would you take time for that "I love you" or "A hug" or when the kids call you do you tell them I'll be their in a minute and never come. When that car cuts you off, (And it will) maybe say a little prayer for that person instead of a curse word?

God tells us in His word to keep watch. No man knows the time or the day that He will come back. I think our lives would be a lot different if we live as if each day could be our last.

"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.

"Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. I tell you the truth; he will put him in charge of all his possessions. But suppose that servant is wicked and says to himself, 'My master is staying away a long time,' and he then begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards. The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 24:36-51).

No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. It's like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with his assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back--whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!' (Mark 13:32-37)

If we examine these passages carefully, it is apparent that Jesus is warning us to stay alert and “Watch!” as we see the Day of the Lord approaching. However, we will not know “the day or the hour.” Do you know this isn’t your last day?

Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour (Matthew 25:13).

Ethan's first day of School

There is so much going on since school started but I really don't have time to write about that today. I have to head off to work this morning but I wanted get my babies pictures posted. I couldn't miss taking pictures of Ethan's first day of school. I was just blessed to be able to see all of my Grandchildren that morning. I have to admit it is handy living three minutes away from them.

This is my grandbabies, Josh and Ethan. They are just about to get on the bus.
I couldn't help but capture this picture of my granddaughter, Jenna. She looks so pretty in all of her pearls.
The bus driver was kind enough to let us run across the road and get a picture of Josh and Ethan inside the bus.

Keeping the Romance Alive!

It's Marriage Monday; C h r y s a l i s is the host of Marriage Monday. Don't forget to click over and see what other christian women have to say on this subject!

Want this button?
My husband's big saying is "Don't they say romance always starts in the kitchen". This is where we spend most of our time. Cooking together and talking while we cook, seems to keep that spark going. Oh, I might get a kiss on the back of my neck as he passes by to get something out of the refrigerator. The mood just seems to carry us through the evening. I love that our children see us enjoying one another. It has kept the "SPICE" in our marriage for over 22 years. Hee, Hee

We don't go on a lot of dates. We still have 3 children at home that takes up much of our time. What we do is; each Saturday morning we set aside time to run errands together. We go to Whole foods, or Krogers, the bank and sometimes even out to lunch...You get the point. We just make sure we set this time aside for one another. I have to say, it really is a time that I have come to look forward to. We normally let the kids sleep-in and it is just the hubby and I.

I think another part to keeping your marriage alive is giving up those little things that don't really matter. Sometimes it means listening to my husband rather than reading or going to sleep. I stopped harping about who is going to take the garbage out. Nagging will take all the romance and fun out of your marriage. My husband likes to know that I think about him when he is not around. Little acts of kindness helps and keeps that spark going. The way I respond to my husband can kill the romantic mood. I really do try to think before I speak.


I also look for ways to serve my husband, not be served. These things I'm mentioning go both ways.


Keep the "FUN" in your marriage. Be silly. Write each other notes or poems, buy little gifts, call just to say I love you, give many hugs and kisses, and consistently encourage each other. A fellow my husband works with divorced his wife after many years of marriage. My husband asked him why? He said, "I wasn't having fun any more". I'm not saying run out and get a divorce if your not having fun. What I am saying is get that fun back in your marriage.

My husband and I have a daily sharing time. We get up early before my husband leaves for work (15 minutes) and just talk. We laugh together, mainly because my eye-balls are hardly open when he wakes me at 5:00 a.m. it is still a time we cherish.

Finally, keep God at the center of your marriage. Read Scripture together. Talk about how God has answered your prayers. How God is working in each of your lives, your families, and how He is working in your marriage. We also like to discuss what we learned from our Pastor's sermon on Sunday. It keeps us close and the conversations flowing.

Happy Birthday to my lovely Daughter-in-law, Jessica.

This is my daughter-in-law, Jessica, my son, Bret, and my lovely Granddaughter, Jenna.

This post is dedicated to my "Best Friend" Jessica; My lovely Daughter-in-Law.


Happy Birthday Jessica!

You keep yourself busy raising my three grandchildren, yet you are always there for me. If it weren't for you, I don't know how far the cancer would have spread before I went to the doctors. You loved me enough to call me over and over again to ask me to please go. I really don't know what would have happened had you not been so persistent. Even using the love of my grandchildren. : )

You are always there when I need you. You are there to listen when I need a friend! You know I don't like to cry in front of people, yet, even through my tears, you haven't looked down on me but have been my support. Thank you for even being there when I lost my hair. I still can't believe that while you were on vacation, you thought of me and brought me all those pretty scarves. I love all of them! Finally, thank you for taking care of my son so well and my three Grandchildren. BTW-Your a good listener too!

Words will never describe how much I love and care about you.
You have been a big support to me for many, many years.

I am so happy that Bret recognized you with such a wonderful Birthday surprise today. A day at the SPA and a Lap Top computer! I can't wait until I see you tomorrow, I bet you are more beautiful (if that is possible) then you were when I saw you yesterday.

Love and Hugs,

Lori

It's that time of year Again!

Every time school starts up I get a sick feeling; I know I won't get to see my children very much. With all of their after school activities, school all day, homework, sports, Awana and youth group, there isn't much free time.

I home-schooled my children for 5 years before making the decision to put them in the public school system. My husband got very ill and was home from work a lot. After months of being sick with bad migraine like headaches, he lost his vision in his right eye, they diagnosed him with a brain tumor. (Prolactinoma) After this, we sent our 4 younger children to a Charter school. I home schooled my daughter until she was going into her ninth grade year. My children ask me every year if they can just be home-schooled again. I know I just don't have it in me to home school again.

I just can't believe that it’s time for my children to go back to school. With everything that has been going on in my life, I haven't spent enough time with my children. I can't believe Boaz (My baby) will be in 6th grade. My twin boys (14) are going into the 9th grade, and my Sailor will be leaving for his 7 month deployment in a week. He said, he would be able to email me some when he is over seas and he will try to call a couple of times. BooHoo, I talk to him almost everyday now. Ohhhh, poor me! It's just going to be another adjustment is all. My daughter has been in Texas for almost a year and a half now. My oldest son is 30 (He is a district manager over 8 Auto port plants) with a beautiful wife and 3 children of his own. I can't believe my middle grand baby is going to start Kindergarten tomorrow. Guess who will be running over to Ethan's house in the morning. Yes, Me! I have to get pictures of him leaving for school for the first time. I pray I don't cry when he gets on that big yellow bus. Little Ethan and I have spent a lot of time together in his little life. Oh goodness, it's not like I won't ever see him again. I really enjoyed our mornings together when the other children were in school. Oh my, am I a whiner tonight. It will take me about a week before I get into the swing of things again.

Ohhhh, I don't like growing up. I think back to the years when all of my children lived at home. Those were some fun times! Enough of my whining and boohooing (is that a word) for one night.

I spent a bit of time today getting everything ready for my boy's to go back to school. I do believe we are all set! It is now time for showers, prayers and off to bed. We have a very early start tomorrow.

Ways we can show our gratitude to God

I couldn't sleep tonight so I went to God's Word. I was looking up different ways we can show our praise to God.

After reading the Psalmists' instruction, I asked myself if I truly live my life expressing thankfulness to God? Or am I numbered among those that are living a life of ingratitude. I pray I never forget who God really is and what He has done for me.

Thank you Lord For leading and teaching me in Your ways, for loving me unconditionally and teaching me to love others as You love me. I want to thank you for my home and the truck that I drive, for running water, for electricity that is turned on by the flick of a switch. For protecting me and keeping watch over me to make it safely through each and every day. For the family You graciously provided, the grand children who I love with all of my heart. I thank you for the friends You have sent my way, even if some of them were only for a short time. Last of all today I want to thank You for sending your Son to die for my sins.

I need to praise God with my mouth, not just my mind
Psalm 51:15, O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise. 63:5, 66:8, 66:17, 71:8, 15, 24, 105:2, 109:30, 119:171-172, 145:21

I need to seek God, thirst for Him
Psalm 22:26 The poor will eat and be satisfied; they who seek the LORD will praise Him, may your hearts live forever!

Psalm 42:2, 63:8, 105:4

I need to thank God continuously
Psalm 71:6 From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother's womb. I will ever praise you.

Psalm 8:14-15, 75:9, 79:13, 92:1-2, 115:18

I need to tell people about God's wondrous works
Psalm 26:7 proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds.

Psalm 96:3

I need to thank and praise God in front of my brothers and sisters in the congregation, among many people
Psalm 22:22 I will declare your name to my brothers; in the congregation I will praise you.

Psalm 22:25, 26:12, 35:18, 68:26, 111:1, 116:19

I need to praise God in front of the unsaved of all nations
Psalm 18:49 Therefore I will praise you among the nations, O LORD; I will sing praises to your name.

Psalm 57:9, 96:10, 108:3

I need to praise God to the next and all generations
Psalm 79:13 Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will praise you forever; from generation to generation we will recount your praise.

Psalm 102:18, 145:4

I need to sing praises to God, I need to sing with understanding, and make it glorious
Psalm 7:17 I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High.

Psalm 47:7, 66:2, 66:4, 9:2, 27:6, 28:7, 57:9, 61:8, 63:7, 68:4, 32, 69:30, 71:22-23, 92:1, 96:2, 101:1, 104:33, 105:2, 135:3, 146:2

I need to even sing for joy in my bed
Psalm 149:5 Let the saints rejoice in this honor and sing for joy on their beds.

I need to praise Him with all my heart
Psalm 9:1 I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders.

Psalm 86:12, 111:1, 138:1

I need to be glad and rejoice in God
Psalm 9:2 I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.

I need to fear God, honor Him, glorify Him, revere Him
Psalm 22:23 You who fear the LORD, praise him! All you descendants of Jacob, honor him! Revere him, all you descendants of Israel!

I need to love and respect God's house
Psalm 26:8, 138:2

I need to stop sinning and seek righteousness
Psalm 33:1

I need to shout for joy, rejoice
Psalm 33:3

I need to be creative in my praise
Psalm 33:3, 149:1

I need to stand in awe of Him
Psalm 33:8

I need to remember and praise God's names
Psalm 44:8, 45:17, 54:6

I need to lift up my hands to Him
Psalm 63:4

I need to think about God at night
Psalm 63:6

I need to encourage other to praise and thank God
Psalm 67:3-5

I love to do this behind close doors, I need to praise Him with dancing
Psalm 150:3, 30:11, 149:3