Twenty Things To Remember!

1. Faith is the ability to not panic.

2. If you worry, you didn't pray. If you prayed, don't worry.

3. As a child of God, prayer is kinda like calling home every

day.

4. Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of

shape.

5. When we get tangled up in our problems, be still. God wants

us to be still so He can untangle the knot.

6. Do the math. Count your blessings.

7. God wants spiritual fruit, not religious nuts.

8. Dear God: I have a problem. It's me.

9. Silence is often misinterpreted, but never misquoted.

10. Laugh every day - it's like inner jogging.

11. The most important things in your home are the people.

12. Growing old is inevitable, growing up is optional.

13. There is no key to happiness. The door is always open.

Come on in.

14. A grudge is a heavy thing to carry.

15. He who dies with the most toys is still dead.

16. We do not remember days but moments. Life moves too fast so

enjoy your precious moments.

17. Nothing is real to you until you experience it; otherwise

it's just hearsay.

18. It's all right to sit on your pity pot every now and again.

Just be sure to flush when you are done.

19. Surviving and living your life successfully requires

courage. The goals and dreams you're seeking require courage

and risk-taking. Learn from the turtle, it only makes progress

when it sticks out its neck.

20. Be more concerned with your character than your reputation.

Your character is what you really are, while your reputation

is merely what others think you are. No matter the storm,

when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.

Leave gentle fingerprints on the soul of another for the

angels to read. I don't want to get to the end of my life

and find that I lived just the length of it. I want to have

lived the width of it as well.

Did You Know?

Add Random Facts to your profile!

funny myspace comments

Vrrrrooooommmm!

I suddenly remember why I stopped going to the races....SUNBURN! I am miserable! My oh so tender neck is like a fiery furnace radiating heat to my already scorched face. I used sunscreen, but of course the sun felt it necessary to show me that the application process needs to be repeated several times throughout a 3 hour period....


Anyway, I managed to get a few decent pics...those rockets zoom by just a little to fast for a quality shot....

A View From Heaven--Devotional

Encouragement for Today - Oct. 4, 2007

October 4, 2007

A View from Heaven

By Van Walton

“I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one…” John 17: 21 (NLT)

Devotion:

Fall has arrived, meaning football season reigns, All across the U.S. family rooms, sports bars, and stadiums rock and roar with victory chants, loyal cheers, and triumphant shouts. Nothing is quite like a sports stadium full of excited fans where everyone comes together to cheer the home team to victory.

Most Saturdays my husband and I can be found right in the middle of the spectator storm! Recently, while sitting in the stands, God invited me to witness the game from His point of view. That’s right…. at a football game God showed me a glimpse of His desire for humanity.

For two consecutive seasons our tickets have been located in the end zone – not a bad place if you are high and lifted up, sitting inside! From that vantage point I watched as over-the-top pomp and circumstance ushered in our team. Thirty minutes before kickoff, the caged and snorting mascot arrived, led by a high-stepping band and adoring cheerleaders. The drums and trumpets might as well have announced the arrival of a supreme world leader the way the fans went crazy while a mere pig rolled around the track! When the entire band marched onto the field, the crowd roared, stood, and, all in one accord, sang the national anthem and our school song. Then, in no time, a perfect human A-shaped runway took shape complete with flying flags, banners, pom poms, glitz and glitter. Just when I thought the noise had climaxed, the entire stadium began to rock and thump. The frenzy gone wild has to be experienced in order to understand how out-of-control 75,000 men, women and children behave seconds before their team runs out on the field.

For the next two hours scores of people worked together to win a game. From ushers to vendors, water boys to coaches and every fan - all united for one common cause – to win. And win we did!

While I sat in my comfy seat God turned my thoughts heavenward. In the midst of fan frenzy I began to reflect on His position – high and lifted up, sitting in His throne watching the game of life we all play. From my position in The Hog Heaven Club– yup that is the name of the club house in the Razorback Stadium - I understood how He delights in His children when they unite for one cause.

I left the game that Saturday with a new goal – work at all costs to unite with my fellow Christian brothers and sisters to delight my Father. I am without excuse because He has given me a clear illustration as to how I am to live. He has called me to cheer on those who fight life’s battles. He has called me to march beside those whose goal is godly victory. He has called me to encourage those who struggle. Above all else, He has called me, and you, to experience such perfect unity that the world would know that God sent Jesus to show His love for all.

All together now – Go! Fight! Win!

Father, You stop at nothing when You want to teach us life’s lessons. I stand amazed that You would chose to reach me in the midst of a loud and crazy football stadium. I want to play life’s game well, pleasing You in all I do. It is an honor to be part of Your team, but I need Your strength and encouragement to participate consistently. I ask for Your wisdom to play well, in Jesus Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

From the Pound to the Palace by Van Walton

Welcome to Community by Brian T. Anderson & Glynnis Whitwer

Sponsor a child through Compassion International

Application Steps:

Read the following verses that give insight into God’s will for our lives:

John 17, Matthew 18:10-14, 21-35, 20:25-28, Luke 10:25- 37, I Thessalonians 5:12-13, James 1:27

Reflections:

Do I live to please myself, others, or God?

How can my life reflect that of a spiritual team player?

Power Verses:

Galatians 5:14-15, “For the whole law can be summed up in this one command, ‘Love you neighbor as yourself.’ But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another.” (NLT)

Colossians 3:1-2, “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set you sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven…” (NLT)

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G, Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.Proverbs31.org

Countdown!

I am ready already!

So, I have been watching the Together DVD on the Gaither site for about 2 days now....It's not helping me be patient for September 16! I can't wait! Although I am excited I am also depressed. This will be our last concert for this year--number 8.
I have a feeling I will be forced to attend a Gaither Homecoming date just to curb my concert appetite....but it's just not the same :-(

Wow! What else can be said about such a night! First off, we left extremely early to stand outside in line in the 105 degree (no joke) heat. By the time we got inside we were on the verge of heat strokes. We RAN, not walked, RAN to claim our treasure…2^nd row seats! WooHoo! That made all the heat a little more bearable! After claiming our seats, we went back out to the product tables and graced the guys with our presence once again. We took a few pictures and talked with a couple of message boarders. Doug said “Man, it’s been a LONG time since we have seen you guys!” Haha…it’s only been 12 hours! All 5 of us wore our matching shirts so they really couldn’t miss us…we stuck out in a good way!

After the opening “concert” from Bill Gaither we all joined in the clapping chant for our SSQ! They ran out on stage and the fun began! They opened with “Someday” and went right into “Our Debts Will Be Paid”. “Glory to God in the Highest” came next and that’s when I lost the note pad….all it takes is one “jumping up and clapping fit” and I lose my note pad! I do apologize so very much for not having a “real” song list. I will try to make up for it!

Gordon sang his new song, “Don’t Let Me Miss The Glory” and I bought the CD just for that song. It’s wonderful! He sang a few more while the guys were taking a little break. He talked about his wife and the new arrival that is soon to join this world sometime in September. What a super guy…there are just no other words to describe him. I must give two thumb up to our crowd…we were very motivated! Gordon Mote came back from intermission in an Alabama Football jersey….we love our football here! The back of the jersey said “G. Mote”…too funny! Gordon was trying to explain to Ernie the love we all have for some good college football here in Alabama, which led to a new twist on an old joke from Ernie. The guys did a couple of songs with only Gordon playing…those were a nice surprise for us!

How could I not mention the “Happy Bear”? He made his big entrance and had the whole crowd singing along. I bought one of the bear’s last night and I love it! I have played it several times since then. It makes me feel like I am at a concert!

After Gordon sang another new song for us, Ernie’s stories of George’s neighbor brought tears to every eye in the crowd—including the ones on stage! George ‘loved him’ to Jesus….that is a great story! I will never get tired of hearing it!

After “I Pledge My Allegiance”, Ernie had all the veterans to remain standing—the thing about tonight that was different from any other concert I had been to was that Ernie had the guys passed out special made T-shirts for all the veterans. I cannot remember exactly what they said, but you should have seen the number of veterans that were there—Thank God for our troops! That particular part of the concert was very moving and Spirit filled….we applauded our veterans for what felt like an eternity. I still have glory bumps and if I could put in words what I saw on the faces of all the guys, you would cry. I am still wiping tears off my face.

As the concert progressed you could really tell that the Spirit was in Birmingham Alabama. This, by far, has been the best concert I have seen. There was not a dry eye in the house during Ernie’s stories and speeches. Doug’s tears brought tears to my eyes and from there on out we all needed a little Kleenex. This is the first time I had ever seen Ernie in tears—what a blessing to hear and see the love he has for his Lord and Savior.

During “He Made A Change”, I always love the part where Ernie and Doug sing together. There’s just something about those two voices together that I love. Gordon stepped up and helped out some on that one. I feel like that song was meant just for me….HE MADE A CHANGE!

During “Pray For Me”, we had a little surprise for all the guys that went over perfectly! I hate to give the story away because we talked it over with Ernie about doing it again at the Macon concert in September since we have front row seats. Ernie had a great suggestion about it….so, I won’t spoil the surprise. Those of you that saw it…you are sworn to secrecy…..All the guys loved it! Doug caught us coming out after the concert was over and he LOVED it! I wish I could have videoed it, but I was a part of it. Ryan’s exact words were…” You guys are CRAZY!” (That should be enough to keep your interests peaked!)

“John In the Jordan” always cracks me up! That Ryan…he is quite a sight to see! His grandmother was there for the show. She sat right behind us and she was a darling! She jumped up and cheered her grandbaby on during “Get Away Jordan”.

“I Then Shall Live” is the real tear jerker of the evening. I know I have said this before, but I am going to say it again….when the music is building up and they burst into “Your Kingdom come…” I could just leap out of my skin! I love that song and from the applause and tears, so did everyone else. Ernie was really feeling the Spirit by now. There are no words to express how genuine and wonderful this concert was. And on top of the heartfelt speech after, Ernie sang “Oh What A Savior”….he was just determined to keep us all crying, but in a good way.

After the concert, we got to spend some “quality” time with David and Ernie…what crazy guys! I love the pics we got with them. Thanks Ernie, for being so….You! Doug makes me smile no matter what he does, can’t help being drawn to his personality and smile. Ryan still amazes me…he used to be so shy….what happened to him!? Tim….what can you NOT say about Tim!

This has been the BEST concert I have seen! I hope that SSQ decides to come back next year! We were a full house, but more importantly, we left with the Spirit of God in our hearts and minds, and a sweet sweet sound in our ears! I love you guys! Thanks for all you do!

Fun Fun Fun

I am just gonna start at the beginning! We left our house pretty early—around 1:00. GA time is an hour ahead of us and I knew they would be doing road work, so better safe than sorry!!! We got to the church about 2 hours early so we rode around for about an hour just looking at stuff. They opened the doors early—thank goodness! It was so HOT out there!!!!!! When we first went in, we found our seats and tried to take a few pics and talk to the guys before the concert started. We got our pics taken with all of them including Gordon Mote. That was my first time meeting him and I must say, what a sweetheart! He is a very nice man. He was telling a lady standing near us that Kimberly is due in another 6 weeks or so. He was praying the baby could wait till then so he could be home for the delivery.

We made our way up to the tables to see the guys when all of a sudden a guy with a video camera comes our way. Lindsey and I part, thinking he just needs to walk past. Nope, he told us to get back together and he started asking us questions…”Why are you here, how many concerts have you been to, etc…” Well, we had no clue what the interview was about until after he had already videoed us making idiots of ourselves….he works with Muzik 3:16—we may possibly end up on EH&SS TV. Just a warning in advance…..we had no clue what he was up to, so we look like absolute morons talking to that camera!!! When we talked to the guys Ryan said, “Haven’t I seen you two lately?” We told him Ft. Worth was the most recent time that we graced them with our presence J He was a little shocked that we came from Alabama to Ft.Worth. We bought a bear—haha…I asked them to sign it and Doug laughingly said, “The only place there is to sign him is on his butt.” The facial expression that went along with the statement was priceless! In conversation with Doug, we were telling him we would be at the Birmingham concert also since we live right outside of Bham. He asked us all about Wright’s Music Hall—how big it is, where it’s at….that kind of stuff. He said they have been waiting all summer for the Birmingham venue…they were really looking forward to it. He graciously thanked us for “always showing up” hehee…we have turned into to groupies! Tim was so nice, as always. He also thanked us for coming….again! Ernie was hiding—we thought either Doug or Ryan may have given him the heads up that the “crazy camera girls” were here….hehee

As the concert started more people filled the church. The entire lower section was sold out and there were very few seats available in the balcony. I did not make a song list...bad Jennifer! We clapped and clapped and screamed and screamed! The night was perfect! Aside from being a little warm in the church—I could not have asked for a better trip! All my favorite songs were done, Gordon did a few songs, Ernie talked about some stuff…I know we have all heard it before, but I never get tired of hearing what he has to say. I will never get tired of the same jokes or stories—we have too much fun to get tired of it!

During intermission we looked for Ernie—still MIA—we were sure of it now…they DID rat us out! Gordon opened the show back up and the guys came in shortly afterwards. About another hour of clapping and clapping, screaming and screaming….fun fun fun! “I Then Shall Live” always gets me….that part where the music is building…then BOOM! “YOUR KINGDOM COME…..” Oohhh…glory bumps still!

After the concert we spotted the one the only—Ernie. We chatted for a brief minute or so and got him to sign our posters that we bought in Ft.Worth. He signed our bear and he told me to play it every day before I get out of bed to give me a good start for the morning…don’t worry, just be happy! He took a pic with me and my mom—that one is becoming my favorite pic. He thanked us for showing up—again! He gave us the official name—ROADIES! We have progressed to the roadie category. I guess by telling them we were coming to a concert the very next day didn’t help our cause….it’s OK to be a roadie….I like it!

I'm Baaack!

Wow! Where should I even start! Our flight left on time and we arrived in DFW at about 10:30 Saturday. We then proceeded to the "Fridays" at the airport. We had to waste some time until our check-in at the hotel. We rented a car...a PT Cruiser....man, that thing was U-G-L-Y!!! That was pretty much all there was left to choose from! After renting the car we checked into the hotel. This was by far the nicest hotel I have ever stayed at....I felt a little uneasy driving around DFW with only mapquest at my side, but it got us to the hotel so I guess I can't complain too much. When we got to the hotel, the two lazy folks took a nap while I tried to get all our stuff together for the concert. I took my photo album with all our concert pictures in it for the guys to sign. (I was hoping they wouldn't put out a restraining order on me after seeing ALL those pics). Good news, we only missed 2 turns on the way to the auditorium Saturday! :-)


As soon as we drove up into the parking lot, we got out and took a few pictures of the auditorium. We started to walk back to our car when what did I see.....Erniefan and her brother, Warren! I spotted Warren's red suspenders and then Erniefan's curly hair and I knew that had to be them....I hurried over to their truck and there it was.....instant hugs and laughs! We waited a while to actually get in the auditorium, so Erniefan, Warren, Lindsey, mom, and I just stood around talking for a while. Lindsey and I went in to find a restroom and we saw a few familiar faces. We took a peak inside the seating area but got run off by a "mean old lady" sitting in the back row eating popcorn...she was really rude! I guess she thought we were gonna steal a chair or something...LOL We DID have PERMISSION to be in there....anyway, when the doors officially opened, we found our seats....WAY up in the balcony, then went back down to take some pictures with the guys and MB'ers. I met sweet miss Hannah and her mom~such sweet smiling faces to remember! I met Janet...it was so nice to finally "see" the real person! Of course, long awaited hugs were exchanged and pictures were taken ***Janet, if you are reading this, don't forget to send me a copy of our picture together***


The funniest part of the Saturday show had to be when they sang "John In The Jordan". There are no words to describe how funny that was! After the concert, we went to Chili's and ate supper. I don't know if we got there really early or really late because we missed the MB table until we had already ordered....OOPS! After we ate, we went over and took some more pictures with the MB and talked for a while. I met several MB'ers~ Janet, Brayden, Kylan, Pam, Gran, Hannah, Diane, Kay, Warren, Aleisha, Misti, Ricks, Mitch...I may have left someone out. My memory is still fried from all those concert memories :-) After all that talking and eating, it was probably close to 12:30 AM before we got back to the hotel, so we were really tired.


Sunday, we got up late so we were rushing to get checked out on time. We left the hotel around 11:30 and ate "breakfast" at Denny's near the auditorium. Afterwards, we kept looking for a grocery store or department store of some kind to buy some sunglasses for Lindsey....no luck! We eventually parked at the auditorium about an hour before the doors opened. We got more pictures and more hugs from all the MB'ers there. I tried to get a poster signed, but Ernie was really hard to keep up with that night. I got the poster's signed by everybody but him....oh well...I will try again in Georgia. Thanks to a **MB angel**, we got the center section, 3rd row seats for Sunday's concert!!! That was so much better than sitting way up in the balcony! I loved every minute of the concert! "John In The Jordan" was even funnier sitting up close!


We had to leave the Sunday concert early because we had a plane to catch so we left around 5:30. We had to return the rental car and find our way to get our plane tickets and the correct gate. As luck would have it, our flight was delayed over 2 hours and switched gates 4 times! We could have stayed for the entire concert! Ahhh!!! We ended up getting home at 2:00 AM and I had to be back up at 4 for clinicals....I am still recuperating from the lack of sleep! I had such a wonderful time in Texas this weekend! A little sleep deprivation is a small price to pay for such a wonderful trip! I hope to do it again soon.....just maybe with a better airline experience and better directions! Being lost in a big city with a time limit is scary!!!!

What time is it?

It's almost concert time! Only 2 days and a few hours stand between me and a plane leaving for Texas! Can't wait to blog about it!

You can say that again...

“Experience is what you get when you do not get what you want.”
~Unknown

“When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us.”
Helen Keller

“Once the game is over, the king and the pawn go back in the same box.”
~Unknown

“To avoid criticism do nothing, say nothing, be nothing.”
Elbert Hubbard

"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."
Eleanor Roosevelt

I have really been thinking about the quote that says "To avoid criticism do nothing, say nothing, be nothing." I kept thinking about Ernie's post on the MB about the "distractors" and I think that particular quote fits in well with the post. No matter what you say or do, there will always be someone there to critique what you are doing. Basically, to avoid criticism you must do nothing, say nothing.....BE nothing. What a way to live....

Only 10 more days....

Oh I can't wait any longer! Ft. Worth here we come :-)

I have not had the opportunity to fly anywhere in years, so this is going to be great! My niece will be experiencing her first flight encounter as we load up on the plane to Texas. I am hoping she does not have some sort of hypochondriac spell and think we are doomed to crash...nah, she is excited about it as well. I think she may actually already be packed! I am usually the first to do such craziness....packing a week early!

My mom is going to have a wonderful time I am sure of it! She really needs this break. I cannot wait for her to see a EH&SS SOLO concert!
In amidst all the excitement, I can't help but think of the worst....missing our flight home! I am on a very very tight schedule! Nursing school has no mercy over family issues, sickness, death, missed flights, etc...

On the other hand, I am so excited about meeting my message board family! There are so many great people that I cannot wait to meet. My camera will be full of so many great memories!!! This wonderful Ft. Worth weekend will be tucked away in my "memory chest" forever!

~Stop And Smell The Roses~

I feel like I have been going nonstop for so long....how do you adjust your 'breaks' on life when you have been speeding for so long? As most of you that read my blogs know, my step-father passed away last Friday after a long drawn out sickness. He had Alzheimer's and dementia along with the recurrence of cancer. My mom and I have been through a lot the past few years, so trying to get back into the swing of "normalcy" is going to be difficult for a while. After a LONG week behind me I start to wonder...."What would it feel like to stop and smell the roses?"

So, I did!

I made the first effort to "slow down" today after I got home from class. With the funeral just 2 days behind us, there are flowers everywhere at my house. I decided to fiddle around with my camera and try to relax. I took picture after picture of flowers, plants, and 'pretty things'.
Then (as always, I have enlightening moments when I least expect them) I thought about how much God loves us. Just think, these flowers are so beautiful and perfect....God made them just for us to enjoy....E-N-J-O-Y! When was the last time you really "enjoyed" something???? Yes, me too....it's been a while. So for now, I am sharing my moment of enjoyment with you. :-)

The Good Stuff

No explanation needed! :-)

On Our Independence Day

To be perfectly honest, the whole "4th of July" thing has never been a big deal at my house as far as the fireworks and cookouts go....I really started thinking about the 4th today on my way home from clinicals. Traffic is already a disaster in preparation for the upcoming holiday. I watched several cars go by with beach supplies, bags of ice, coolers, and fireworks hiding out in the back seats and I thought to myself, "Another family celebrating the 4th", but the 4th isn't all about cookouts and fireworks.
In passing all those going to the beaches, I also passed a SUV with a bumper sticker that said "I love my marine." That sticker is what sent the nuts and bolts turning in my tired head. I don't think we give enough credit to our soldiers....we get to sleep in our comfy beds while they have to sleep on the ground, we can sit around in our air-conditioned homes when it's hot, they have to be out in the heat all day, we can sit back and relax on the porch swing, they get no relaxation, we can come and go as we please while they are off fighting to keep it that way.
So in preparation for the 4th, go here: www.faithflashes.com/mpp.htm
Let's be sure to remember our military in our prayers not only on the 4th of July, but everyday!

**No exchanges or refunds**

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39

Ah! Isn't that great to know! Once we accept Jesus Christ into our lives, NOTHING can take that away. It's our eternal gift that has already been paid for. God doesn't do "exchanges or refunds"....it's ours for the keeping!

No I'm not....Ok, so I am!

I checked my comments on myspace the other day and noticed one that had not really caught my eye to begin with. One of my nieces had left me a comment about my new pictures that I had posted from the Jackson, Tennessee Signature Sound concert. Contrary to popular belief from my niece, I am not *obsessed* with EH&SS. Obsessed is such a strong word....I prefer "gung ho" or maybe "fascinated by"~~ It doesn't have such a straight-jacket feel behind it! When asked "What is the big deal about them?" I just simply reply,

"I enjoy the harmony, joy, peace, smiles, laughs, tears, glory-bumps, chills, cries, delight, comfort, excitedness, exhilaration, liveliness, vivacity, rejoicing, blessedness, hopefulness, bounce, pep, zing, surprises, bliss, calmness, cheer, and just good ole' fellowship that comes with a concert setting. You can't find anything like it! There is no "music channel" or "top 20 countdown" that can give you what I receive every time I go to a concert. "

To give you a little insight into my happiness, picture two little ones~~Austin 6, and Lana 5. These two precious young'uns tugged at my heart strings when they were at my house and requested to hear "He Made A Change"~~My eyes watered the entire time they were singing along at the top of their lungs, never missing a word! THAT is the stuff that counts....who cares what MTV says....I have found the top 20 in my book!

~It Is Well With My Soul~

As a pianist, I find joy in learning the background for certain songs. I have heard this particular story many a time, and every time I play this song, I almost cry.

"....And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul..."

Even so, IT IS WELL with my soul!

This hymn was writ­ten af­ter two ma­jor trau­mas in Spaf­ford’s life. The first was the great Chi­ca­go Fire of Oc­to­ber 1871, which ru­ined him fi­nan­cial­ly (he had been a weal­thy bus­i­ness­man). Short­ly af­ter, while cross­ing the At­lan­tic, all four of Spaf­ford’s daugh­ters died in a col­li­sion with an­o­ther ship. Spaf­ford’s wife Anna sur­vived and sent him the now fa­mous tel­e­gram, “Saved alone.” Sev­er­al weeks lat­er, as Spaf­ford’s own ship passed near the spot where his daugh­ters died, the Ho­ly Spir­it in­spired these words. They speak to the eter­nal hope that all be­liev­ers have, no mat­ter what pain and grief be­fall them on earth.

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Refrain

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

Refrain

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

Refrain

For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.

Refrain

But, Lord, ‘tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh trump of the angel! Oh voice of the Lord!
Blessèd hope, blessèd rest of my soul!

Refrain

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

Refrain

Excerpt above from www.cyberhymnal.org

~Everything will make perfect sense~

Don't you wish things were as easy to DO as they are to SAY?

Oh, I have been thinking here lately about all the things that are happening in my life. I feel sometimes like I have such a heavy load on me...between school, clinicals, home life, and my family, I just feel like I am running around in circles. Have you ever been swimming in a lake or ocean and had to "tread water" for a while waiting for the boat? I feel my life sometimes is a giant ocean and I am treading water....not making any progress.
I know that everything happens for a reason and that God has a plan for me. I just wish He would post it on a billboard or something :-) Hey, I am trying to go by my own advice....laugh at the confusion....it will all make sense later!

I am so tired

What a week so far! I am exhausted...I need one of those LONG relaxing vacations where I can just sit on the beach and watch the waves come in, see the bright blazing orange sunrise and the deep passionate red fading into indigo sunset, white sparkling sand between my toes, cool, crisp, salty breeze on my face, no sunburns, no sweating, fresh exotic fruit, beautiful soothing island music, grass skirts, sailboats, dolphins, seagulls, buoys clinging gently in the ocean waves, a lighthouse on the shoreline, palm trees as far as the eye can see, and a tan hottie to bring me ice water on demand! OK, now that I am back in reality, a good week free of studying would be just as appealing to me!

What A Sweet Sound

What an afternoon! I have spent several hours today playing feng shui with my bedroom furniture, which caused great fatigue! As I was cleaning up the last of my mess, I heard my phone ring. I checked the caller ID and was little weary of answering the "unknown" number. I answered the phone and heard this:

"Hello, who is this"......

"Jennifer who?"........

"Do you know who this is?"........

The name game continued for about another 30 seconds when that one of a kind laugh came through and a huge smile ran up my face.....Oh how wonderful it was to hear such a sweet voice! I had not really spoke much to Brian since our "split" about 2 years ago. We kept in touch every now and then, but I hadn't heard from him in months. An hour after he called, we were still talking about old times, new times, and keeping in touch. So much has happened with the both of us in the 2 years or so that we have been apart. Nothing like a sweet phone call to make a hectic day a good one.

Down in the dumps?

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. (Psalm 55:22)

---

You heard my cry for mercy when I called to you for help... Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord. (Psalm 31:22,24)

---

Look at the birds in the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they??? (Mathew 6:26)

---

Answer me quickly, O Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I'll lift up my soul. (Psalm 143:7-8)

---

The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. (Psalms 9:9)

---

The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. (Deuteronomy 33:27)

---

You are my lamp O Lord; the Lord turns my darkness into light. (2 Samuel 22:29)

---

A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all. (Psalms 34:19)

---

If the Lord delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumbles, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand. (Psalm 37:23-24)

Psalm 91:4

If This Is What God Says....

"If this is what God wants, If this is what God says, Then who am I to doubt and try to figure out the circumstance, If this is what God chose for me In all His Majesty, Surely I can trust and lean on what God says...."

You say: It’s impossible
God says: All things are possible

You say: I’m too tired
God says: I will give you rest

You say: Nobody really loves me
God says: I love you

You say: I can’t go on
God says: My grace is sufficient

You say: I can’t figure things out
God says: I will direct your steps

You say: I can’t do it
God says: You can do all things

You say: I’m not able
God says: I am able

You say: I’m not smart enough
God says: I give you wisdom

You say: I feel all alone
God says: I will never leave your or forsake you

You say: It’s not worth it
God says: It will be worth it

You say: I can’t forgive myself
God says: I forgive you

You say: I can’t manage
God says: I will supply all your needs

You say: I’m afraid
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear

You say: I’m always worried and frustrated
God says: Cast all your cares on me

(Chorus above from "If This Is What God Wants")

Oh The Places We Will Go!

I sit here on this Wednesday night reminiscing about the places I have been this year. For starters, I have been to Pensacola Florida for a Signature Sound/Gaither Vocal Band concert, followed by a day at the beach, to Birmingham Homecoming with GVB and Signature Sound along with other artists, then to Six Flags over Georgia, and this past weekend was spent in Jackson Tennessee at yet another Signature Sound Concert. I have been blessed to be able to go and do things this year. As I think about what good times were had, I think about all the good times yet to come. I am patiently awaiting our departure for Fort Worth in July followed by the Cummings Georgia and Wright Music Hall performances of Signature Sound in August. Fort Worth will be exceptionally appreciated because my mom can finally take a little "break" and I get to meet so many of my message board friends! I feel like I have known them forever! Oh the places we will go this summer!

I Need A Rewind Button

Oh what a great weekend! Two girls could not have asked for anything better than a Signature Sound concert! Wow, it was just wonderful! The day started out by driving a somewhat uneventful 264 miles across to Jackson, Tennessee. We stopped a few times along the way. I felt this was like a journey across the Southern states, so I took a picture of the Mississippi and Tennessee welcome signs. My sleeping niece in the passenger seat made no effort to hold her eyelids open through this journey. Shame on her! When we got to the hotel, we were a tid bit early to check in so we embarked on another journey....to find the church! About 8 miles later there it was....this was a huge church. We don't have many churches in my neck of the woods that seat 3,000 people! The outside was gorgeous, leading to even more pictures.

As concert time approached, the butterflies in my stomach were telling me it was time to go! My niece and I (along with the butterflies) loaded up in the car toward the church. We got there 2 hours early and stood in line, hoping for excellent seats. As we stared at the double doors, hoping and praying they would suddenly open, I saw out of the corner of my eye a man wearing a red/white striped dress shirt waving from inside. Who else but sweet Doug would remember us! He just smiled from ear to ear after we waved back in excitement.

As they opened the doors to let the crowd in, we rushed to what would soon be deemed "OUR seats". We were lucky enough to get the first set of non-reserved seats....the third row! After claiming our "treasure" we started back out to the product table to get pictures and scope out Ernie's suit. We were hoping that we would not get that "Century 21" suit AGAIN! Ernie let us know real quick that he had retired that suit from the summer tour. We were introduced to his.....well...."bunnies". Only Ernie could make such a suit look good.

Who ever would have thought Ryan to have such great dance moves! If only I could describe in words what I saw with my very own eyes!! I guess "cowboy" would be the best title for such a dance move...Oh, the memories! I wish I could've captured that one in video, but I will just have to rely on my memory! Doug was stepping up the comedy part also. He was the "tattler"of the group. The little "tattle" notebook he kept was so very funny. He played that part well. Tim had the guts enough to make a wife joke while HER parents were occupying the front row....bravery was shown and he succeeded! Ernie's humor of course included Bill Gaither and also, a new face--Christopher Phillips. The babyfaced 26 year old was introduced by Ernie as "12 years old". Christopher took the sarcasm gracefully! In addition to the Gaither "special talents" moment, Ernie allowed us the pleasure of almost falling off the stage....Oh, if that was rehearsed, he did a wonderful job of scaring me to death! I thought the bunnies were going to take a tumble for the worst! And last but definitely not least, I finally got to meet David. Just a quick "can I take a picture with you" was enough to tell that David is a super sweet guy. He had to "approve" our picture before he left! Too sweet :-)

As I think back on the events of that night, I smile. I had the best time and I just oh so wish I had a rewind button. All they guys are so good to take "just one more" picture. I know they must have thought my camera was somehow surgically attached to my hands....I went just a little bit camera crazy. I am sure they understand....we don't get many opportunities to sit up front, so I took advantage of that blessing!

It was so good to see all the guys! I just love em! They sang most of the songs from the Get Away Jordan CD in addition to Forgiven Again, Then Came The Morning, Pray For Me, I Then Shall Live, Sweet Sweet Spirit, Glory To God In The Highest, and I am sure there were others! My mind does not function for at least 2 weeks after returning from a concert.

~Excitement,~

The time is getting closer and closer to CONCERT TIME! Only about 12 more hours stand between me and the alarm announcing "Time to go." I plan on making an early departure from the nice little confines of Alabama. We should be arriving in Jackson around 12 noon. From there it's just a few hours of grabbing lunch and getting ready to go, then it's off to the concert! I am sure I will just be blessed to the point that I probably won't be good for anything when I get home. I tend to lapse into a "post-concert" phase where I can think of nothing else BUT the concert. Oh, the stories I will have to tell! For starters, a very sweet lady has warned me about Ernie's "bunny pants"....I am definitely looking forward to that photo opportunity. Ernie's attire never ceases to amaze me, well....that really goes for all the guys. It takes a "one-of-a-kind" person to pull off some of the suits they wear! I will also get to see a special performance from Christopher, whom I hear is just like Anthony Burger...oh, I just can't contain myself any longer. I have been packed for 2 days.....yes, 2 days! I check the bag at least 3 times a day to be sure I have not forgotten anything.

Who Is Jesus?

"Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?" ~Matthew 16:13

To the artist, He is the Altogether Lovely,
To the astronomer, He is the Sun of Righteousness and the Bright and Morning Star.

To the baker, He is the Living Bread,
To the biologist, He is the Life,
To the builder, He is the Sure Foundation.

To the carpenter, He is the Door,
To the doctor, He is the Great Physician.

To the editor, He is the Good Tidings of Great Joy,
To the educator, He is the Great Teacher,
To the engineer, He is the New and Living Way.

To the farmer, He is the Sower, the True Vine, and the Lord of Harvest,
To the florist, He is the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the Valley.

To the geologist, He is the Rock of Ages.

To the hopeless, He is our Hope.

To the juror, He is the Faithful and True Witness,
To the jeweler, He is the Pearl of Great Price.

To the lawyer, He is the Counselor, the Lawgiver, the Righteous Judge, and the Advocate.

To the philosopher, He is the Wisdom of God,
To the proud, He is the Rebuker.

To the sculptor, He is the Living Stone,
To the straying sheep, He is the Good Shepherd.

To those who suffer, He is the Comforter,
To the thirsty pilgrim, He is the Water of Life,
To the troubled soul, He is the Pacifier.

To the sinner, He is the Savior.
To the Christian, He is the All in All.
~~Author Unknown.

Hear My Song Lord....

O Lord, I call to you; come quickly to me. Hear my voice when I call to you. May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.
Psalms 141:1-2

I bought a devotional today and I have been flipping through some of the pages and I saw the scripture from above along with a little story about an evening prayer. As I read the scripture I kept hearing a song over and over in my mind. The song is called "Hear My Song, Lord". This is a beautiful song in lyrics alone, but to hear the soothing music that accompanies it just makes it even better. I have heard a couple of versions of this song, but my favorite is off the Love Can Turn The World DVD/CD. I am a little biased I suppose, Doug has a solo part, and I melt every time he opens his mouth. It's good to know that even when we feel like we can't hear anything for all the noise of life, that God still hears our song!

....And I will give you rest.

"Come unto me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Matthew 11:28

~*Hope*~

What is hope?

An everyday dictionary may tell you that hope is to cherish a desire with anticipation, but what exactly IS hope? A few years ago at the "little church" that I used to play the piano for, the pastor gave us this quote about "hope". His definition of hope was this:

"My visions of the future are greater than my memories of the past."

Just think about that for a moment..."My visions of the future are greater than my memories of the past". That just blows my mind sometimes. Maybe I am thinking to deep or maybe I need to think even deeper. That quote has stayed in my Bible ever since the words escaped our pastor's mouth. I often look back at this quote and reflect on the things that I have "hoped" for in my life and how those things have either come to pass or have disappeared completely from my mind. I do not know the origin of the quote. I am unsure if it was from our pastor, or if he was inspired to share it from a devotional, but the words of that quote stay with me even now....2 years later.

Just a little something to think about the next time you are hopeful about something.

~A New Look~

As I left the college from a long 4 hour study session, I thought to myself..."Self, you need a new look". To my surprise, the wonderful lady that cuts my hair had an available appointment at 2:30. I was there at 2:20 looking through different magazines when I saw "The Look" I was trying to achieve. A gentle reminder of my previous hair "nightmares" lay near the money stash in my car...a note to myself saying "Um, you remember what happened the LAST time you had a bright idea!" That played no part in my decision making for the day. So, the coloring began!

After almost 2 hours of just sitting there while she foiled my hair, I began to recall that "reminder" again....Why did I do this?

After another 35 minutes of letting the color "set", I REALLY thought about that note...Why did I do this?

Then came the rinse process....I have a lot of hair, and with that 'lot of hair' comes a 'lot of tangles' and with those tangles comes a lot of ouching and a lot of scary faces. Still thinking....Why did I do this?

After 45 minutes of blow drying, the finished product became a little clearer. Ah, I see.....
I DO know why I did this!

My new "do" is about 6 inches shorter and now has a touch of warm caramel creme highlights to tone down the "black coffee" look I had previously been accustomed to. Now looking in the mirror at the big picture, enduring a little torture wasn't so bad.

~Another day closer~

As the weekend draws nearer, I am increasingly excited about the Jackson concert. So excited in fact, that it is hard to focus on the major studying I should be doing to prepare for the huge test that will await my return.

I have this "complex" about applying situations to my spiritual walk. For example....I have charged several sets of batteries, checked my camera, confirmed reservations, and made sure my directions were printed and tucked safely away with my tickets. I treat this like a very special moment in my life......

What about God? Have I charged my soul for worship and for following Christ? Have I checked my relationship with our Heavenly Father? Have I confirmed my love for Him by my actions? Have I been following God's directions? How will I know which way to go? This way, or that way.... Everytime I think about a "direction" to take, I think about the poem that every high-school junior had to memorize....The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost.

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth.

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

Though as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same.

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.


In this crazy thing we call life, there are so many distractions, temptations, and evil "lures" to drag us under. I hope, that in addition to being prepared for a weekend trip, that I have prepared myself spiritually for the real "special moment" in life.....following Christ.

When you conquer one, up comes another

After a sudden scare with breast cancer, my sister-in-law has yet another demon to face. Tomorrow's MRI will soon tell us why she has been having numbess, tingling, and a feeling of "electric shock" over her arms and legs. I am so worried. She is my brother's world....literally! He is a big worry wart anyway, but this is so frightening for all of us. As a special little prayer for her goes up, I pray that those of you reading this will do the same.

Dear Lord, I pray that all goes well in tomorrow's MRI and that it is nothing serious. Lord be with the doctors and with the patient. Please put your touch on this entire situation. They say the results will take about a week.....please put your comforting hands over my brother and his wife. One week is a long time to worry. Lord, you have healed her from breast cancer and I know anything is possible. I ask for all these things in Your precious and Holy name....Amen.

The Nursing Student's Prayer!

Lord: I know we go through this every day but please give me the knowledge as to why I actually wanted to go to nursing school. Lord, give me the strength to make it through those boring five hour lectures without falling asleep. Lord, please give me the patience to make it through twelve hour clinicals with instructors that can't just give you the right answer and on the same note, give the nurses the ability to remember what it was like to be a student and give us just a little more respect. Lord, give me the endurance to read all the assigned readings and be able to remember it when I am taking a test with four right answers. Lord, give my family and friends the ability to realize I really am on the edge of insanity. Finally, Lord, give me the vision to see that one day I will be a real nurse and I will never have to wear this ugly uniform again!!!......Author Unknown

This really does sound like a nursing student. Sometimes I get so stressed about the tests and clinicals that I can't even remember why I went back to school. Lord, make me mindful of the responsibilites ahead and be with me through the next year.

Why?

Why is that when you need something the most, it's "unavailable"??? I have had the worst internet problems this weekend....and it's still on the fritz! Of course, you call Tech Support and what do you get.....someone who can't speak English! I couldn't understand over half of what was said, then they get all grouchy when you ask to speak to a different agent! AHHH!!! I was really needing to catch up on some emails and bills. I guess I will just have to tough it out a few more days....I am surprised I stayed connected long enough to vent! LOL

Who do you love more?

Oh the exhaustion brought on by two little ones....I now know why I do not have any children of my own...LOL. "Aunt Boo" is completely worn out. Who would have ever thought that two bundles of joy would grow up to have such insatiable energy! In amongst the high energy levels crept a burning question....

"Boo, do you love Austin more than me?"

No Lana, I love you as much as I love your brother.

"Are you sure you love me as much?"

Silly girl, of course I love you as much.

As I sit here and think about the craziness of my day, I wonder if God feels the same way that little Miss Lana did.

"Do you love your job more than Me?"

"Do you love your new truck more than Me?"

"Do you love fishing more than going to church?"

These are all questions that I feel I need to ask myself daily. I know I have put things before God in the past. I am trying so hard to mend that. I have prayed for a "revival" in my soul. I am still not where I need to be in my "walk". I have come a long way from the things that I used to do, but still, I need that extra "pep" to get me back on the straight and narrow.

Last one for today, I promise :-)

What makes you truly happy? Walking on the beach, taking a picture of the footprints you made?? Yes, that simple task of walking and looking at my footprints made me happy. What makes you happy? Well, here are some rules to get you jump started!

Rules for being HAPPY!

God didn't promise days without pain,

laughter without sorrow,

sun without rain,

but he did promise strength for the day,

comfort for the tears,

and light for the way.

Disappointments are like road bumps,

they slow you down a bit but you enjoy the smooth road afterwards.

Don't stay on the bump too long.

Move on!

When you feel down because you didn't get what you want,

just sit tight and be happy,

because God is thinking of something better to give you.

When something happens to you, good or bad,

consider what it means.

There's a purpose to life's events to teach you how to laugh more or not to cry as hard.

Never abandon an old friend.

You will never find one who can take his or her place.

Friendship is like wine. It gets better as it grows older.

Remember the five simple rules to being happy:

Free your heart of hatred.

Free your mind from worries.

Live simply.

Give more.

Expect less.