Have you experienced Wordle?

Wordle is a cool site that takes a jumble of words and makes a picture like the one seen here. These are words from my blogs. I love that God and Lord are so prevalent!! Go look at it and give it a whirl. (Click on the picture to see it in all its glory ;).)


“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Are You Prepared?

This time of year causes folks to reflect on what they would like to see happen in the new year or to make resolutions. I found out many years ago that I can't seem to keep any New Year resolution I make, no matter how simple it is. When I fail, I feel guilty and all sorts of other emotions that I have no business feeling. So, I decided many years ago that I would not make anymore New Year Resolutions!

However, this year, I found this post about being prepared for the new year. I wanted to share it and then make it my own. Below is my personalized preparedness...but please go to the original post and read it in its entirety. I believe you'll be blessed by it.

For 2009, these are the areas I intend to focus on:

Me. What adjustments do I need to make in my life in the areas of ministry, Bible study, service, prayer and obedience to what God is calling me to do? As a small group leader, I strive to be the example God would have me be for Him. I want to have His word hidden in my heart.

My husband. Besides my prayers for his salvation, I ask God specifically for ways I can and should be praying for my husband throughout the new year. I pray for God to show me how to be more loving towards him today than I was yesterday. I also pray to be the wife God honoring wife I am designed to be.

My children. My constant prayer is for their protection and a deepening faith, but I also want to be sensitive to what God is doing in their lives. Along with my own concerns, I ask God to show what areas I need to cover in prayer for the upcoming year. How can I be a God honoring mom to them?

Extended family. Who in your family needs special prayers for the coming year? This is a good time to make a list (not too long or you’ll be overwhelmed) of those who don’t believe, are struggling in their lives, or are ill.

Friends. How can I be praying and uplifting the special people in my life? Praying for them keeps me closer to them as well.

Missionary. Do you have a cause or missionary you support? Put it down and make a commitment to pray for them. (Include my pastor here too!)

World. Is there an area God is calling you to pray for on a larger scope? I’m committed to praying for President Elect Obama. (side note: 1/20/09 is the day set aside to cover our President in prayer.)

Finally, write it all down. (#8 & #9 haven't been changed from the original writer's words.) Assign a day of the week to each area (Monday for my immediate family, Tuesdays for extended family, etc.) Give each day a page and list who and what you’re praying for. Then leave space to write in updates during the year. This will help you reassess the following year as well.

Also jot down any promises God gives you in these areas so that you can go back and read them when you find yourself discouraged or off track. You’ll be amazed how much strength you can draw from these reminders that God is personally involved in every aspect of our lives.

I want to give Dineen a big shout out for sharing how she will start the new year. It was exactly what I needed to help me jump start my year!

Share with me your goals and/or dreams and/or commitments for the new year!

“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Really?

God is so awesome! I have entered sweepstakes for years now, and I've never won. I never win the door prize or the contests. Usually, I'm sitting next to the person who wins...you get my drift? Lately, I have been amazed with all that I've won! A beautiful necklace, books, CDs, decorative plate and more books! (I need to link up to all the precious people who have given me prizes because I really apprecite everything I've received!)

Allow me to digress briefly (I promise, I'll try to be brief...I know I KNOW). A couple of months ago, I began crying out to God and holding on to His word as my marriage was quickly crumbing. I knew that if I held on to His promises, then no matter what happened would be for His glory. I was believing God - not just in Him but believing Him.

Here are a couple of the promises I held on to and kept repeating over and over:

Psalm 37:4 - Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV) -- For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

So, things between James & I are steadily improving. Yippee! And, I've won all these prizes and I have had precious people just give me sweet presents and items to let me know "I love you". So to all of them I saw - THANK YOU!!! I honestly feel the Lord used these people and giveaways to remind me of the delight only He can give. So I PRAISE HIM! Thank you, Abba!

Imagine my surprise when I got home yesterday and I had a box from TitleTrakk.com that said "your prize is inside"! WHAT???? I won a stack of Christmas books from TitleTrakk.com. I went to their site to copy what I'd won for the blog, and there was my name! (The list of books has been taken down already.)

Let's give God a big round of applause and praise Him! Thank you Lord finding favor in me and giving me the desires of my heart. I will worship while I wait on You.

Have a beautiful Saturday. And remember to praise Him through your circumstances. He is worthy!


“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Wow...

I was just looking over my previous posts and except for the precious post about my new grandson (29 is really too young to be a grandmother - work with me here), I have only been a copy/paste blogger of late. Well, I did post the snazzy picture of my husband in his uniform all decked out.

I have so much going on, and yet not much going on. You know what I mean? (A lot of busyness...)

(I love the picture of Santa praying to baby Jesus. I have a beautiful figurine and ornament like this. I think I even have a bell!)

Let me just say that I have done not ONE BIT of Christmas shopping. Do you see that - NO CHRISTMAS shopping has been done at my house! You probably wonder why - well financial is one reason and my girls don't know what they want!!!!!! James said he doesn't want anything (that's what he always says) and I don't know what my mom wants. (We don't buy for extended family anymore. Both of my grandmothers are in their mid-80's and are constantly giving stuff away. Why do they want MORE stuff??) We buy for James' youngest son and his mom (the ex-wife, not James' mom - she died when he was 6). Actually we go to her house for Christmas Eve. She has a big shindig (I typed "sindig" at first - I hope that's not a sign of things to come lol.)

I didn't participate in BooMama's tour of homes because our tree isn't up! The girls were going to decorate it this year (after calling me Scrooge) and yet the half assembled tree has sat since Thanksgiving. Who are the lazy ones now??

I was so happy I got my Secret Santa and my Siesta Fiesta stuff out yesterday. I know I'm late, but I always am...Sorry ladies! Mary, I mailed you a book too! I opted not to send Christmas cards this year. If you're on my facebook friends' list, then I sent you some holiday flair!!

Well, I guess that's all I have for now. I hope all is well with you. Thank you for stopping by!

“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Introducing...

...my grandson, Anferny Ian! He was brought into this world on December 8, 2008.

Look at that pure sweetness - can you stand it?

One problem with Anferny is that he lives in Germany with his mommy and daddy! His daddy is my husband's oldest son and he is German! So, I've never met the mommy or the daddy and now I have a precious grandson who I probably won't get to meet anytime soon. But, that doesn't keep me from loving all of them! (Notice the overuse of ! I'm excited!)

Look at all that hair! And I don't know what he's wearing, but it sure is cute!!

So there's my little German angel. Feel free to coo and talk in a funny little voice while looking at the picture. I sure have!

“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Come to the Quiet

Soon after my life was turned upside down by God's unfailing love and mercy, I found a book that really helped keep me "calm" about this little thing called "relationship with Christ" when it came to talking to my husband who "didn't share these thoughts" with me. (There have been many times since then when he's wondered, "Where did I leave my wife and who is this woman???") Bless his heart, he just doesn't know what I know!!! (I try not to be a HUGE Jesus freak but it's so hard!!) Oh, anyway, before I get off on that subject, let me try to keep with the reason I am sharing what I'm going to share! Author Nancy Kennedy wrote a book entitled, "When He Doesn't Believe" that I read and thoroughly enjoyed. I gave my copy away and have yet to replace it (anyone notice a theme with my giving books away???). I enjoyed her writing so much that I have followed her blog and other books since then.

I am currently toting around "Lipstick Grace: Glimpses of Life, Love, and the Quest for the Perfect Lip Gloss" by Nancy Kennedy. Not only does Ms. Nancy write books, but she also write a weekly column for her local newspaper and she's a speaker! Lipstick Grace is a collection of various columns she's written through the years. It's quite enjoyable (if you like to laugh and you enjoy finding out that others aren't perfect either and you love Jesus!).

This one article really spoke to me, especially since it's about Christmas and it's Christmas here. I emailed Ms. Nancy to ask if she had this article somewhere in electronic format or would it be okay if I retyped it and sent it to friends and/or posted it on my blog. She emailed me back immediately and said to feel free to post or send or whatever!

So, without further ado, here it is. I hope you enjoy the article like I have. Thank you Nancy Kennedy for allowing me to share!

Come to the Quiet

Shared with permission by author Nancy Kennedy from Lipstick Grace, Multnomah Publishers

Shhhh. Hush.
Stop all the fighting and sniping. Cease the quibbling and the squabbling over whether “Merry Christmas” is politically correct or not.
Shhhh. Quiet. It’s okay.
Put away your credit cards. Your kids don’t need another computer-digital-anything. You and I don’t need any more debt. Our debt is crushing us as it is.
We need a debt canceler.
Be still, if only for a moment. It’s Christmas-our Debt Canceler has come.
Off in the distance dawns the light for the nations. The darkness is pierced, and the light will never, can never, be extinguished.
Stop your striving. Take a breath. Breathe deeply the life you’ve only dared to dream of. The life where you lie down and sleep in peace and awake with joy.
Put down the bottle. Put away your grudge.
Lower your fist. Kiss your kid. Forgive your dad. Love your wife.
The One who has borne our sin is born.
Our King forever, our Prince of peace, our Mighty God, has come to us, to live with us, identify with us, bear our sorrows, give us rest.
So rest. Stop.
Hush.
At my church on Christmas Eve it’s our tradition to sing of peace and silence. “Pease, peace, peace on earth and goodwill to all.” “Silent night, holy night.” “Now let us all sing together of peace.”
Shhhh. All is calm. Christ has come.
He hasn’t come to wage war on retailers. He hasn’t come to battle Santa Claus or debate whether or not the fir tree is a pagan symbol. He hasn’t come to argue with local governments over crèches and menorahs in the public square.
The government, after all, is on His shoulders. He is Ruler. He is Lord, and He has come to set His people free. To rescue and redeem. To find the lost, bind the wounds of the broken, heal the hearts of the sad and grieving, the lonely and afraid.
He has come to give rest to the weary, direction to the wandering, purpose to those who think life has no meaning. He has come to still the restless hearts of men and women, to give hope to those who cannot even fathom hope, sight to the spiritually blind.
His law is love and His gospel is peace. His yoke easy, His burden light.
He is salve for tired eyes, a hand for the lonely to hold, a lap for the child at any age to climb upon, a shoulder broad and strong on which to lean and to cry.
So rest. Take your shoes off. Turn down the noise. Switch off the TV.
Pray.
Even if you’ve never prayed before, it’s ok.
Do you hear that? Can you feel it? That soft smile? That’s your God, the One who came as a baby, a lamb, a lion, a Messiah.
He smiles!
Shhhh. Enjoy the silence. Cry if you need to. Laugh if you want to. Stretch out your hands. Touch the splintered cross He was nailed to. Accept the gift.
Embrace the salvation offered by the world’s only Savior.
Forget about the sweater that doesn’t fit, the broken gadget that needs to be returned. Exchange your broken life for one that’s new, your sin for Christ’s sinlessness, your peace for His peace, your sorrow and pain for His joy.
All your disappointments, all your unfulfilled dreams, all your confusion and brain noise and heart achings, set them down.
Be still now. So very, very still.
“The effect of the righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever,” wrote the prophet Isaiah. “My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places” (32:17-18 ESV).
It’s Christmas and Chris has come to bring us into His quiet, to hush our fury, to still our rage and fear.
Christ is our gift. Jesus is our peace.
So, shhhh. It’s Christmas.

(Any typos or grammatical errors are all Cathy's.)

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

What would your testimony be?

I'm not sure how big my cardboard piece would be - do you think I could carry a billboard?

Sinner, Unbeliever, Addicted/Grateful Believer of Jesus Christ

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

The Patron Saint of Barbara...?

Last night, my husband (without me because, well, he's in KY and I'm in AL, and it's Christmas so funds are a little tight) went to some ball they had. He was awarded the St. Barbara award. What a strange award to receive, but he seemed pleased that he got it and he enjoyed himself at the ball. I was glad because he was really not looking forward to any of it. So, in honor of him getting the St. Barbara award, I'm going to post a picture of him all dressed in his military dress blues. (I think that's what they are called - I'm not a very good military wife, huh?)

Dapper, no? I asked (begged) him send me a picture, so I could see him in his uniform. I have seen him in it before when we went to Jr. ROTC ball right before we got married, but you know, I wanted to see him again!

Anyway, I thought I'd share the picture and something of a story with you too. Plus, now, no matter where I am, I can come to my blog and see a picture of my hubby.

(P.S. - "Things" are going much better right now, and I can only attribute that to God's masterful hands in our marriage. We still have to work on "things" but at least he wants to stay married!! Praise God!)

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Memory Monday!

I must admit that I have done poorly with Memory Monday BUT I'm not going to get discouraged and give up!!! He will never leave me nor forsake me (Hebrews 3:5-6) nor shall I leave or forsake Him (or forsake my goal of hiding His word in my heart)!

I still have the goal of memorizing all of Jeremiah 29:11-13. Here's what I know for the first verse (which is below): I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not harm you.

I realize that is not exactly what it says (and I could've looked down there for the exact answer, but that would defeat the purpose, wouldn't it?) but it's what I know :-).

I was also sent this nifty Scripture Bell but it won't stay a bell if I post it...*booooo*! Ok, wait, I've tried again...I looks like it's ok, but it might not post correctly. Let me know if you'd like it emailed to you by emailing me at cathy.m.davisatgmail.com

THE BELL
I KNOW WHO I AM
I am God's child (John 1:12)
I am Christ's friend (John 15:15 )
I am united with the Lord (1 Cor. 6:17)
I am bought with a price (1 Cor 6:19-20)
I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1:1)
I am a personal witness of Christ. (Acts 1:8)
I am the salt & light of the earth (Matt 5:13-14)
I am a member of the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27)
I am free forever from condemnation ( Rom. 8: 1-2)
I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant (Phil 3:20)
I am free from any charge against me (Rom. 8:31 -34)
I am a minister of reconciliation for God (2 Cor 5:17-21)
I have access to God through the Holy Spirit (Eph. 2:18)
I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms (Eph. 2:6)
I cannot be separated from the love of God (Rom 8:35-39)
I am established, anointed, sealed by God (2 Cor 1:21-22 )
I am assured all things work together for good (Rom. 8:28 )
I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit (John 15:16 )
I may approach God with freedom and confidence (Eph. 3: 12 )
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil. 4:13)
I am the branch of the true vine, a channel of His life (John 15: 1-5)
I am God's temple (1 Cor. 3: 16). I am complete in Christ (Col. 2: 10)
I am hidden with Christ in God (Col. 3:3). I have been justified (Romans 5:1)
I am God's co-worker (1 Cor. 3:9; 2 Cor 6:1). I am God's workmanship (Eph. 2:10)
I am confident that the good works God has begun in me will be perfected. (Phil. 1: 5)
I have been redeemed and forgiven ( Col 1:14). I have been adopted as God's child (Eph 1:5)
I belong to God
Do you know
Who you are!?

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Memory Monday

When I was visiting crownlaiddown's blog, I saw that she had joined in a new meme that the The Simple Wife has started called Memory Monday.

The goal of Memory Monday is to engrave God's Word on our hearts (or a fancy way of saying we need to memorize some verses). There are all kinds of reasons for this, and all kinds of verses that support it. Simply put, as believers, we need to know the Word. By heart.

So, here are the "rules" to Memory Monday:

Each Monday pick a verse or passage to memorize for the upcoming week. And the next Monday, we'll type it out BY MEMORY and choose another one!

I guess in theory, I don't need to type anything out today, but I want to start, so I'll type out a verse I know by heart:

Be still and know that I am God.
Psalm 46:10

My goal for next week is to have memorized Jeremiah 29:10-13.

I'm working on the button for the blog. I'm having a little issue right now. (I doubt you can click on the picture and have it work. It's cute though!)




For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

The Shack

Have you read this book?

I've heard about it. We had a stack of books at our church "book store" but I didn't see any there. So, when James & I went to Books A Million yesterday, I picked up a copy. I've only read through page 42 and I'm really enjoying it!

I might be expected the book to be earth shattering, given all the attention it's garnered. I probably shouldn't put that much into it, huh?

And, if you have it in you, please say a prayer or two for James & me. We've done a lot of talking, but we have more to go. This I do know - God is good ALL THE TIME!

(I'll be getting the sweepstakes winners stuff out on Monday. So sorry for the delay!!)

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

A United House

There is a reason Beth Moore is wonderful teacher and why I just love her so much!

She wrote this post - A United House. She took the words right out of my mouth (or the words I was trying to come up with).

_______________________________




To my beloved Sisters who I esteem so highly and consistently find to be part of the solution to our problems in the Church rather than the cause.


Please join me in praying for our President-elect Barack Obama, his wife Michelle, and his precious daughters, Sasha and Malia. Go with me before the Throne of our sovereign God and ask Him to grant wisdom from above to President-elect Obama and the indwelling presence and power of Jesus Christ. In the words of the Apostle Paul, "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior..."

Please also join me in the active and deliberate pursuit of unity and purity in the Body of Christ at this historical time in our country. I implore you in Jesus Name to have zero tolerance for prejudice whether it is regarding party-affiliation, color (whether you are Black, White, or Brown), economics or the like. Disagreement is not sin. Prejudice is. Satan has plotted events and planted attitudes that, should he be successful, will result in havoc. We must not stand for his schemes or cooperate in a single way. We would severely displease God and invite untold chastisement upon Christ's Church in our nation.

Speak clearly to your children and graciously but emphatically draw a line in your work places and social circles regarding your stand against prejudice of any kind. "Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, 'Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.'" (Matthew 12:25) A united house stands. A divided house falls. The devil has much to gain. But he also has much to lose.

We are the Body of Jesus Christ and we have an opportunity to show His character. This is our watch. We stand for what is right not from our feet but from our knees. I humble myself before you and make these pleas under such bold direction of God that I could not resist it nor disobey it. He made it a fire in my bones.I love and esteem you so much. Shoulder to shoulder, Dear Siestas. Let's leave not one inch for the enemy to come between us.

Amen!


For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

A Future Hope

A Future Hope

“I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.” Jeremiah 29.11 MSG

God has a plan for your life. Yes—your life and mine. The tragedy is that we often are too busy—too preoccupied—to hear Him or see His work in our lives. If you slow down and begin to “see” Him and spend more time with Him, you’ll see how God gently takes us by the hand and leads us, a little at a time, to the future that only He can see.

By moving us along gently, He gives us the time we need to mature, to develop the skills we need for the work He has planned, and to get us used to the idea that all that has happened in the past may, in fact, be part of His grand plan for us.

By revealing His plan a little at a time, God helps us adjust to the idea that His dream plan may be bigger than we ever imagined.

Prayer:O Lord. I trust that Your plan for my life is perfect for me. Reveal to me, even in small ways, how You are getting me ready to fulfill what You have dreamed up for my life. Amen.

Bible Readings for the Week Ahead
Monday: Jeremiah 29:1-14
Tuesday: Romans 12:1-8
Wednesday: Isaiah 43:6-13
Thursday: Matthew 10:7-20
Friday: Acts 26:9-23
Saturday: 1 Timothy 6:11-16
Sunday: John 17:6-26

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Neat-o Links!

I found some neat-o sites tonight and I wanted to share them! I believe I found them through Bloggy Giveaways (look for a giveaway carnival next week ~ I'm going to go through my Avon and/or Creative Memories for a giveaway. Heaven knows I have alot of both!).

Seems the big craze is vinyl lettering. I gotta admit - I am loving all the things I'm seeing with the lettering. I am loving the sayings on the walls and the thought of having something like that on my wall without having to try and paint it myself is extremely cool!

So, anyway, I went to Tip Junkie first and she has a ton of links to "mom shops". From there, I found this site My Tree House Treasures. She has some really cute products and none of them will break the bank.

Another giveaway site! Great homemade jewelry from RHBDesigns.



Go check these sites out - I know it's helping me pass time on this Friday night.


For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

What I did last night!

Go over to DeeDee's and see what we did last night! It was great fun meeting new people and hearing Trent Monk sing! I think the funniest part was when I realized I knew one of his songs and I said, "That's you?" I just know my face turned bright red!

Thank you Sophie (& Hubs and child) for opening your home for us to come over. It was great getting to see you (or meet you, as the case was for the hubs and child).

*Funny little story - I took my 13 yo daughter with me. When we got there, she looked in the floor board at the CD cover and said, “Is that who’s going to be there? Bart Millard?” “I wish!”, said I. However, I was more than tickled to meet Trent and hear him sing. He’s funny guy (and very talented…which is probably more of what he’d like to hear me say because he’s promoting a CD of songs and not a comedy act…I’m just saying).



For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Thank you Mama Siesta!

Over at AllAccess, they have a blog where you can leave a message for Beth, Travis, the praise team, Living Proof and the Lifeway team and thank them for the ten years of ministry amd how your life has been changed or just to say thankies!

Not wanting to lose what I wrote, I'm posting my message to them here. I encourage you to go over and leave them a message, if you feel so lead.

Like everyone else, I wonder where to begin. Without starting from the beginning, I can only imagine how Mama Siesta is going to feel when she reads all this about her. Truly a humble servant before our Lord, that one is. Sophie, I thank you for opening up the blog this way and allowing us a place to thank Mama Beth and let her know how much she’s meant to each of us.
Several years ago, when I was going through a horrible season in my life, my attendance at church was pretty spotty - at best. I had lost my brother, wasn’t sure if my mom was going to live and was going through an excruciating divorce too. I did get away on a Women’s Retreat and met a few ladies from our church. One of them was doing a Beth Moore study and everyone kept talking about how great Beth Moore was. So, to be quite honest, and I’ve never told anyone this, I thought the lady leading the class was Beth Moore. See, small groups and bible study outside of Sunday School were very novel to me. (This lady who I thought was Beth Moore has been my mentor the last couple of years and she has no idea I had the misperception!) Well, I went to the first class of her study, but no more. As a matter of fact, I didn’t really even go back to church for over 3 years!

In August 2006, I totally surrendered my life to Christ and just in time for the starting of new small groups! My friend (and mentor, whose name is Laura, not Beth) was leading a Beth Moore study, and well, Laura was about the only person I knew from church, so it was a given I would do her class. I really had no idea what I was in for, and it’s probably a good thing I didn’t, because I don’t think I’d ever have done the study! But, in August of 2006, I met one of the most of godly women I’ve ever met when I started Believing God. I finally met Beth Moore and thought she was the most precious woman ever (still do!). I got to hear stories about her love for God, her family, her heartaches, her Redeemer and how to believe God.

There are so many beautiful traits Beth has that I find so endearing. What stands out the most is how God turned her ashes into a picture of beauty and how He gave her such a gift to teach all of us women how to love Him wholeheartedly. She could very easily be put way up high on a pedastal, but she tells you NOT to do that. I admire her so much and I think the world of her, but I pray that I give her the credit she deserves and glorify the One who gave it to her!
In the last 2 1/2 years, I have gone from being so lost to being a small group leader! I’ve had an awesome and dear friend and mentor (Laura), and a wonderful godly teacher, Beth Moore, to help me grow in my relationship with Christ!

Mama Beth (and her precious family), I love you so much (and I told you that at the Siesta Fiesta, even if you just knew my name b/c I had on a name tag, I’m believing that you & Amanda really knew my name, whether I had on a name tag or not!), and I thank you for listening to our Father and for using the painful childhood you’ve had to turn it into a true living proof ministry. Words really are inadequate to express to you what your teaching has meant to me and how life changing the lessons have been. Thank you for sharing your journey with me and teaching me all along the way. I didn’t ever realize such a godly woman could still be so stinking silly and FUN!!! Thank you for showing me how to a godly woman and still love life in a fun and loving sort of way.

To the Moore family, the peeps at Living Proof Ministries and Lifeway, I can’t even begin to imagine how much work each of you invest into this ministry. I thank you for all your support and prayers and sacrifices that you’ve poured into the ministry to help touch so many lives. And to the Moore family, thank you so much for sharing your Mama with us and Amanda, thank you for the blog!!!!

Travis - I’m a new appreciator (is that a word? sure it is) of your music and I just love you and the praise team! Your music has really touched my soul!

I think I’ve written a novel, but I do want to make sure Mama Beth knows how much I just love her! She’s the one who helped teach me about Agape love so it’s only fittin’ I give her some!
I love me some Mama Beth!! Thank you so much for your ministry

(P.S. Did y'all know that Pink's real name is Alecia Beth Moore?)

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Pictures from Siesta Fiesta

Here are some pictures from the Siesta Fiesta from August. I can't remember now what's prompted me to post them - probably a thought that I never showed anyone (and that could be b/c I am not happy with the 50+ lbs the camera always seems to add to me). Anyyyywayyyyy...

Outside the Alamodome

Our reserved seating signs!!

My view!

Our group's picture from the Siesta Fiesta Q&A. There were over 1,000 Siestas there!

Aren't they darling?

This is from the Siesta Fiesta/Q&A Time. You can see my little face in the corner. That's JennyHope from Pelham talking to Melissa about hair! (I didn't realize I was surrounded by people I lived really close to!)

So, there you have it. I wish I hadn't forgotten my camera, but, alas, I did. Thankfully, Rich from Lifeway took great pictures and we got to snag them!

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Twitter Moms!

Sweet Tea anyone?

My friend, Wendy, blogs for al.com. She blogs about all things frugal and if you haven't checked out her blog in the past, I hope you'll take the time to do so! She's a beautiful person ~ inside and out and I feel blessed to call her friend. (And as much as I adore her, I guess you can tell by the title that this isn't an Ode to Frugal Mom blog...) I digress alot, don't I?

I have struggled on how to make tea. Sweet or unsweet - didn't really matter - it tasted gross either way. I like strong tea - not that weak tea like they serve at some restaurants (interestingly, those are the same restaurants that serve Pepsi products...correlation, asks the Coke product drinker?) Oh, I've digressed again, haven't I?

My friend posted a recipe on how to make sweet tea on her blog a couple of months ago and I finally tried it out of thirst desperation ;) and it's GOOD! I substituted the 2 cups of sugar for granulated Splenda and it's a little too sweet, so next time I'll try a little less, but other than that, It's GOOD! I made GOOD SWEET TEA! I know all my readers *cough* are wanting the recipe, so I want to share it with you:

Southern Style Sweet Iced Tea: Cheap and Delicious!
Posted by Wendy McCormick July 31, 2008 9:56 PM
Categories: Food
I love sweet iced tea. I especially love to drink it on a hot summer day with a slice of lemon and tons of ice.

My husband loves to drink Milo's Sweet Tea. I love the convenience of buying tea already made verses having to take the time and effort to brew it myself.

I used to buy Milo's Sweet Tea by the gallon until I realized how much money we were spending each year to buy our delicious drink.

Let's just say you buy two gallons of Milo's Tea each week. (That is a low estimate around our house... we can go through three gallons a week during the summer ---we don't drink many soft drinks.)

If you buy it at Sam's Club, you can get it for $1.99 per gallon. If you buy it at the grocery store, you are looking at around $2.49 per gallon.

Now for the math. Let's take an average of $2.25 per gallon of Milo's Tea multiply it times two for two gallons purchased per week. We are at $4.50 per week. Multiply that times 52 weeks in a year... You have spent around $250 per year (if you include tax) on iced tea!

To make your own sweet tea for a fraction of the price, here is my recipe:
Southern Style Sweet Iced Tea
3 family-size tea bags (I like Luzianne)2 cups granulated white sugar 8 cups cold water
Start with cold water. Bring it to a gentle boil. Add 3 family (large) size tea bags.Remove from heat and let it steep for at least 5 minutes (but no more than 10).Mix concentrated hot tea with 2 cups of sugar and stir well in tea pitcher. Add cold water until pitcher is full and stir to combine. Serve over lots of ice with a garnish of lemon. Enjoy!

_________________

MMMMM, I'm loving my OWN SWEET TEA! I'm excited about this - can you tell? Y'all just don't know how many things of tea I've thrown out and it's almost shameful to be from Alabama and NOT be able to make any kind of tea. I can hold my head up high now :-). Thank you, Wendy. I heart you!




For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Tagged!

I've been tagged by TCKK so I'm gonna give this a whirl. (But, I don't think I have 7 peeps I can tag to carry this forward.)

Seven weird or random things about me (wow, I'm glad it's only 7):

1. Last time I did one of these, I had a hard time coming up with 10 but as I read other people's lists, I kept saying "oh yeah, I do that too". I guess I'm a little more random or weird than I think (or like to admit).

2. My whole house can be turned topsy turvy but my silveware drawer will be in immaculate condition. Everything must be facing the same way and be in there neatly.

3. After a shower, I have to close the shower curtain. It'll bug me if I leave it open. (This goes for the shower curtain in my girls' bathroom...if I go in there, I have to close it. If I come to your house and it's open, I'll close it. Just doing my part to help out - you know?)

4. I change into my jammies as soon as I get home, and then I won't leave. If I have something to do after work, I try to just stay out till it's time to show up.

5. As confident as I might seem in a small group of folks, I'm just that "unconfident" in a big group of people. I'm not shy but I am not overly confident either! In a big group setting, I almost become like a wallflower.

6. I can't seem to finish this because I keep watching TV. So there are times it takes me forever to do something b/c the idiot box keeps distracting me.

7. I don't like to have "new" email messages in my inbox. I don't necessarily read the messages, but I have to mark them as read. It's really annoying that I do that because sometimes I overlook things because I think I've read them when in fact I haven't!

Cathy - I did it! Now, who can I tag?

DeeDee
Patty
Kim
Lisa
Mary
Sallie


Ok, that's 6 and I don't know if any of them will do it!

Thank you for thinking of me and including me, Cathy!


For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Surrendering the Secret

I hope I'm linking this correctly. If you have any trouble with a link, please let me know. ~Cathy


A Giveaway That Keeps on Giving
Do you know that one in every three women has had an abortion? In fact, 43% of women of child-bearing age have this secret. And I don't use the term "secret" lightly. While there is certainly a multitude of unbelieving women out there that tote this secret sadness in their hearts, there are as many BELIEVING women - FORGIVEN, SAVED WOMEN in YOUR CHURCH - who are walking around unhealed. Why? Because they are paralyzed by shame and fear at the thought of surrendering their secret.

You may remember my mentioning Pat Layton, my friend, and the founder of A Woman's Place Ministries in Tampa, Florida. With first-hand experience, she intimately understands the fear and heartache that surrounds women, post-abortion. After she was saved, she looked for material to help her and others heal, but there was none. So, she and God wrote a study that was used for 20 years at her crisis pregnancy center. This year, Surrendering the Secret was released in DVD form by Lifeway, in response to the thousands of hurting women that flooded the altar for prayer in this area, after each of their large events.

While I, personally, have never experienced this heartbreak, I know a LOT of women who have. I bet you do, too. The effects are so far-reaching. As you can imagine, with this situation often being shrouded in secret, even if a woman knows about this study and longs for healing, she's not likely to buy it herself. This is why our churches - EVERY ONE OF THEM - need to have a copy. This is where our giveaway comes in - a chance to win one for YOUR CHURCH!

God has recently impressed upon me that we, the blog community, can partner with Lifeway and Pat, to make a BIG DIFFERENCE in this area of secret pain. Just as He multiplied the five loaves to feed thousands (Mark 6:41-44), I'm believing that He will do the same with this giveaway of the Surrendering the Secret study. So, here it is:
Five (5) Winners
One (1) DVD Leader Kit (including DVD study, leader guide and one member book) PER WINNER
Twelve (12) Member Books PER WINNER
Click HERE to watch the promo video of the study.

Giveaway will run through Sunday, October 12th - WINNERS ANNOUNCED MONDAY, OCTOBER 13TH (per random.org)
Because it is my heart that the word get out to as many churches and people as possible, I'm going to give you two chances to win:
Leave a comment
Link the giveaway in a post on your own blog, then leave a SECOND comment, including the link to your post. This is NOT about blog promotion, but about spreading the word of healing!Other ways to get involved:
Tell your church about the study and work toward getting a copy purchased for their use, if you don't win.

Encourage your pastor to discuss abortion from the pulpit and include it in the sins mentioned from the pulpit that are forgiven through Christ. There are MANY women who walk away from a sermon feeling like their sin is unforgivable, simply because it's never mentioned.
Invite Pat to come and speak to your women's group and/or leadership about ministering to women in crisis, or to train your leaders to present this study.
Consider donating financially.
Join me in thanking God in advance for what He will do! Praise Him that He will multiply this small mustard seed of faith into a great movement of healing across our nation.
THERE IS HOPE AND FREEDOM IN SURRENDERING THE SECRET.
You can make a difference for someone else who is hurting - maybe even for yourself.
In His marvelous love,

(From Melinda's blog - Please visit her blog to enter!)




For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Internet Cafe Devotion: Romans 8:28

Cafe Chat


And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

"What is one thing that happened in your life that initially may have been a bad or painful situation that you saw God work together for good? Please give details…"

Sometimes, when you're going through a situation, you just can't see what could possibly be good about it - at all! Much less, you don't see what can be used for God's glory, especially if you aren't in relationship with Him.

I mean, who really looks at a divorce and thinks "This is for God's glory"? Or, can you really look at a time in your life when you were so far away from even wanting to acknowledge God really loves you that you wanted to even think about the remote possibility of what was going on was for God's glory? What about the death of a loved one? But! Wait! There's is GLORY in EVERYTHING HE DOES!!!!!!!!!! Oh my goodness is there glory! GLORY!

I have such a testimony for God's glory. Have you been through something really bad? So have I! You know what God does? He has me use that experience to relate to you and show you what He can do. If all that I've been through makes a difference for just one person (although, I really wish it would be more, but that's just me, we know how heaven rejoices when even 1 sheep is found) to turn from a life without Christ to a life WITH HIM, holy SMOKES! I'm there!!

I know I'm not really saying anything about a specific time that God has used for His glory. Maybe it's because I can now see what He uses in my life (past and current) to relate to other folks and how He's able to show His greatness and His glory through those situations. I fall short all the time but His mercies and His grace are new every morning!!! Yippee!!!

Thank you, Lord, for loving me even when I didn't love myself. Thank you for continually knocking on my heart and softening me up to the point where I finally let you in. I thank you too for taking away the shame I felt over my past and my being able to use it to glorify You! Thank you for the wonderful people you have placed in my life that help me follow You and see You. You are a wonderfully gracious Father and I love you so much!



For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Thank you, Lord!

Things that make me happy and/or make me giddy, in absolutely no particular order!

Clean Sheets

Getting in bed with clean sheets after a shower

Hearing my kids say I love you!

Hearing my husband say I love you!

Hugs

My puppy curling up next to me

Email from friends!

Comments on a blog ;)!

Clean house (I don't get this one very often.)

Wednesday night Bible study group

Starbucks

Enjoying going to work every day

Being appreciated

Giving encouragement to someone and knowing I've helped in some way (that's a God thing!).

Singing to a great worship song and thinking I sound GREAT!

Quirky sense of humor

New Cover Tune Grab Bag videos from MercyMe.

New features on blogspot.

Chocolate.

Winning a sweepstakes!

e-bay...sometimes...when I find what I want

God is so good - all the time! He's poured out His blessings on me. This week I got hired on as a permanent employee at the place I've been temping. I watched my daughter driving behind me (as I was driving). Both of the girls had a safe flight to see their dad for his 40th birthday surprise. Our church had a tailgating tent set up at one of the HS football teams and we were passing out free food, t-shirts and footballs! All for His Glory! My grandmother had outpatient surgery and is recovering well. God has given the South a bit of fall weather! It feels MARVELOUS!

I have some new bloggy friends! I'm glad to have friends - new and newer ;). I hope you've been having a good week. *hugs*

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Fireproof

I went and saw the movie yesterday. I loved it! (I took the video off b/c it was driving me crazy - always starting.)

ANYWAY, I hope you have plans to go see this movie, for several reasons in no particular order. One - Mike Sever is all grown up - need I say more??? The music is awesome! The storyline is so powerful - can I hear praises for our Father in Heaven?? Oh what a godly movie these men have written. I wanted to throw myself down in the theater and praise Him (I didn't b/c ewwww who knows what's been on that floor). I love knowing that this "little Christian movie" is making a huge splash in Hollywood and the country. Last I checked, it was #4! Praise Him peeps! Praise Him!

This is definitely a keeper movie - I'm looking forward to it hitting the shelves.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Saving Lives for Malnourished Children

Please go here:
connorcolesmom: Saving Lives for Malnourished Children


For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

ta da

This is the face of a very happy 16 year old little girl!

Hindsight

A couple of years ago, I took part in a challenge when I blogged at yahoo 360. My friend Mary at http://www.maryrsnyder.com/ just posted a blog about her younger self and it reminded me of this post from Sept. 2006:


Dear Cathy:
I know you don't like to listen to grown ups and what they have to offer, but I can only hope as I am you as a grown up, that you will listen to me. You're 14 right now and you have your whole world ahead of you. I know what life is going to be like when you're 38 and honey there are just some things you need to not do!
Keep God first. You're active in youth at Church right now. Don't lose it. You keep God first right now, and most of the things we're going to go through later on wouldn't have happened.
QUIT SMOKING. Ugh, you don't really smoke much right now and it won't be so hard. In a few more years, you'll be glad you did. Believe me when I tell you that it's really hard to quit when you've been doing it for so long.
Keep on saying no to drugs. You know it's the one thing I said actually said no to and I'm so glad I did. We'll drink some and sometimes to extremes, but drinking is never a problem for us.
When you start losing weight this year, work on keeping it off. Keep on exercising and make it part of your every day life.
On your 15th birthday, don't go to the golf course. Save your virginity for someone special.
That guy at Aladdin's Castle that you think is wonderful. He's going to be your first husband. I'm not sure if you should go down that path or not. As long as you'll wind up where I am right now, you shouldn't. But, I don't think it works that way. I'm sorry to say that when you're walking down the aisle, 3 days before your 19th birthday, you're going to regret it and wish you weren't. We don't stay married toooooooo long. Hey, on the bright side, we went to school and learned how to type. This will be important. Maybe you should take typing in high school and not worry about failing or passing the class. Just do it!
In your junior year of high school, there will be a Christmas party for the Color Guard at the teacher's house. GO TO THE PARTY. Do not, and I stress, DO NOT go with Mireille to see that guy. That guy is a jerk. Because of the events of that night, you will battle with many demons for many years. Eventually, you will ask God to forgive you, and He will (see, keep God first and this wouldn't even be part of the hindsight), but it's a long and hard battle that you aren't going to share with many folks. You'll regret the events of that night forever.
You're going to become guys' best friend. They will come to you to talk about their girlfriends. Just deal with it. It's not that you aren't good enough for any of them. It's that you're a good listener and you seem to know what to say. This won't really change through the years. Many times, you'll have more male friends than female friends.
When you and Tim break up, you're going to meet a guy named David. Now, listen very carefully, the two of you will get married. It's not a bad marriage, although ya'll don't communicate well. But, you will get divorced. The divorce will be painful. You will do everything you can to make it work but it's just not going to happen. But, here is why you have to marry this guy. You have two beautiful daughters who are your heart and soul. Oh, I just can't tell you how wonderful these girls are. They are so talented in many ways and they just bring joy to you. Oh yeah, sometimes you're going to feel like you're at your wits' end, but then one of them will do something so incredibly sweet, and it will melt you all over.
During this marriage, you will discover the Internet and chat rooms. Listen to me right now...any man you meet who knows you're married and still tries to sweet talk you isn't worth the time it takes to type hello. (If you keep God in that number 1 position, this will be moot.) If you would talk to your husband about these needs you have, you wouldn't have talked to this guy in the first place. That makes us examine the next point..
Learn to communicate your needs and emotions. Be able to tell people no and not feel like they are taking advantage of you, because you know what? THEY ARE! But, dear sweet young Cathy, you are allowing them to do so. Close that open wall up and build a beautiful door which only you can open. Oh you can be such a sucker...don't be a sucker Cathy.
You deserve better than having an affair with a married man. You are better than that. I know at 14 you think I'm insane even bringing this up, but trust me, it will become a huge issue. You deserve someone who will love you no matter where you are. You deserve someone who will hold your hand, call you and not hide the conversation, who will tell folks "Can I call you back? Cathy's on the phone." Cathy you are a wonderful person. All the good things you think you deserve? You do deserve them. (Hey look, again, if you keep God in that #1 position, this won't happen either.)
Sex. I've brought this up a lot, huh? You know what, it's not what's missing from you life. It's not what is going to make you happy. Oh yeah, it feels great, but it feels even better with the right person.
You know that little voice that you hear but then ignore? Learn to just listen to it. I can't tell you how many times that little voice is right. You're going to ignore her and be sorry. And you're going to hear her taunting you saying, "I TOLD YOU SO!!!!!!!"
Here's one thing I don't know if I should tell you or not. Your brother...you aren't going to believe this one....next year when he graduates from High School, the two of you are going to become best friends. I know it's shocking!!! He's still going to act like he's going to hit you and then really do it. For some reason, that never changes. Cherish him. Figure out how to save some of those long and crazy voice mail messages he leaves, because he won't be around to leave them when you're older. Oh Cathy you're going to miss him so much. Your whole world will change on March 28, 2002. It's going to be hard and at first you just won't believe you're going to make it. Just keep on taking it one day at a time. Actually at first, it's one breath at a time. You'll make it through. You have to because shortly after this your mom is going to get really sick. She has to have you be strong for her. You make it through that too. See, you're amazing really at all you can do. You don't think you are sometimes, but you are.
At some point in 2004, when you least expect it, you're going to fall in love with this man named James. DON'T RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!! You'll spend months trying to run from him because of all your past mistakes. But don't do it. He's not going to let you get away. And YOU DESERVE HIM!!! This man is everything you have ever wanted in a husband and soul mate. Neither of you think anything will ever come out of your relationship because you're just friends, but it will. I can't tell you how much you are going to love him. I can't even find the right words to express myself in today's world about him. How can I tell you?? I asked him one day how he put up with me and all my quirks (we have quite a few) and he said he didn't put up with me. He just loved me. Cathy, he's wonderful. He makes the other two marriages and all the heartbreaks in between worth it because he is the one you will go on with for the rest of your life.
You're going to have a bumpy road, Cathy, but if you'll keep this advice with you, you will be ok. All those little bumps and valleys and peaks make you who you are today. Keep seeing the beauty in everything and in everyone. Keep your wonderful sense of humor. Life is pretty funny, even when we don't think it is. You have a way of making people smile when they didn't think they could. You deserve all the good that happens in your life.
Above all, dear Cathy, keep God #1 in your life. I promise if you do this, many of the things I have told you about won't even be an issue. Even if you falter and slide away, He is going to open His arms for you to come running back into. Yippee!! He forgives you so much easier than you will forgive yourself. Good thing is that He is there to help you on your journeys.
Life is beautiful, Cathy, experience it! I love you, don't ever ever forget that!!
Cathy






For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Saturday...

I started out the day just knowing I was going to blog. I had a blog in mind; all I had to do was just write it. I've been on the computer 3/4 of today ~ I had the time. But, the blog I'm writing now is not the one I had in mind. It's been a weird day for me. Has it been for you too?

For some reason, it hit me today that I'm just lonely. And finally vocalizing that just made me really sad. Then, you gotta know what happened next...Oh, yes, pity and self-doubt. I'm sure I make a great target for satan. I just give him so much material to use.

Let's dig into the married/lonely part for a few. So, I'm married woman. I'm on my third marriage...for some reason, each husband has had to travel extensively for job/career. Is it me?? The schedule James is having to keep right now is making communication very difficult. Not only is finding time difficult, but I'm finding myself so darn insecure about us too. Being insecure makes me question everything and I can't stand that! UGH! When did I turn into THAT person? So I am NOT going to be that person!

How do I not be her, though? Well, most importantly I remember that God makes everything wonderful and He made me...that makes me wonderful. He knows the plans He's made for me. And as basic as this promise is - it's the best one I remembered - Jesus loves me! Yes, even me. Such a lowly and unworthy sinner who only by the perfect love of Jesus taking my sin on the cross - in His death and resurrection - am I able to claim the promises of my God as my own. All the seeds He keeps tossing at me, I keep watering with my tears. But, for HIS glory, and HIS glory alone, will those seeds flourish into something beautiful and fruitful.

In all that I do, I will do for my Lord - whether it's keeping a calm attitude when my almost 16 yo daughter is driving or driving in traffic; not having "what if" thoughts when I don't hear from James; using my time wisely at home and at work; trying to keep a house that is pleasing to God and won't embarrass me or anyone else; leading a bible study group; attending church and church activities; with all that I am and all that I have - I want to be pleasing to the Lord.

Colossians 3:17 says: "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." YES!

Earlier today when I was giving satan all sorts of ammunition to use, I should have listened to Voice of Truth from the Casting Crowns. It usually tears me up (in a positive way) and it would've been a good time tearing up today.

What I don't understand is why all these truths won't stick in my head and hide in my heart? Why does seem I have to relearn this every day?? His mercies are new every morning - does my mind think it has to renew every morning too?

Ok well the day didn't stay blecky. I had a Mommy / Kristen time. We went to eat at Moe's (WELCOME TO MOEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!), walked around Hobby Lobby and had alot of fun taking pictures with the props (errrr...inventory), and had a root beer float to support Juvenile Diabetes (Hope Floats it was called at Fresh Market).

I saw this hilariously funny video on Mercy Me's website (thank you Boomama!), and I can't help but think "Do they know they are famous?" Seriously, I didn't think famous folks acted as silly as they do on that video and you know what? I LOVE it! It helps me remember that although they are famous, they are still just peeps, just like I'm a peep. We're all God's peeps! I can't figure out how to get the video embedded in here - the codes just didn't want to work for me but I do have a link to their blog in my blog list thingy over to the right.

So that's been my day in a small nutshell. I'm glad I don't have a lot of days like today *shew*.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11