Birthday Celebrations

Dear loved ones,

As you well know, we are getting closer to my birthday. Every year there is a celebration in my honor and I think that this year the celebration will be repeated. During this time there are many people shopping for gifts, there are many radio announcements, TV commercials, and in every part of the world everyone is talking that my birthday is getting closer and closer.
It is really very nice to know, that at least once a year, some people think of me. As you know, the celebration of my birthday began many years ago. At first people seemed to understand and be thankful of all that I did for them, but in these times, no one seems to know the reason for the celebration. Family and friends get together and have a lot of fun, but they don't know the meaning of the celebration.
Remember that last year there was a great feast in my honor. The dinner table was full of delicious foods, pastries, fruits, assorted nuts and chocolates. The decorations were exquisite and there were many, many beautifully wrapped gifts. But, do you want to know something? I wasn't invited. I was the guest of honor and they didn't remember to send me an invitation. The party was for me, but when that great day came, I was left outside, they closed the door in my face, and I wanted to be with them and share their table.
In truth, that didn't surprise me because in the last few years all close their doors to me. Since I wasn't invited, I decided to enter the party without making any noise. I went in and stood in a corner. They were all >drinking; there were some who were drunk and telling jokes and laughing at everything. They were having a grand time. To top it all, this big fat man all dressed in red wearing a long white beard entered the room yelling Ho-Ho-Ho! He seemed drunk. He sat on the sofa and all the children ran to him, saying: "Santa Claus, Santa Claus".. as if the party were in his honor!
At 12 Midnight all the people began to hug each other; I extended my arms waiting for someone to hug me and ... do you know ... no one hugged me. Suddenly they all began to share gifts. They opened them one by one with great expectation. When all had been opened, I looked to see if, maybe, there was one for me.
What would you feel if on your birthday everybody shared gifts and you did not get one? I then understood that I was unwanted at that party and quietly left.
Every year it gets worse. People only remember to eat and drink, the gifts, the parties and nobody remembers me. I would like this Christmas that you allow me to enter into your life. I would like that you recognize the fact that almost two thousand years ago I came to this world to give my life for you, on the cross, to save you. Today, I only want that you believe this with all your heart.
I want to share something with you. As many didn't invite me to their party, I will have my own celebration, a grandiose party that no one has ever imagined, a spectacular party.
I'm still making the final arrangements. Today I am sending out many invitations and there is an invitation for you. I want to know if you wish to attend and I will make a reservation for you and write your name with golden letters in my great guest book. Only those on the guest list will be invited to the party. Those who don't answer the invite, will be left outside.
Be prepared because when all is ready you will be part of my great party.
See you soon.
I Love you!
Jesus
P.S. Please share this message with your loved ones, before Christmas.

Jesus is Better than Santa

Jesus is Better than Santa

Santa lives at the North Pole.
JESUS is everywhere.

Santa rides in a sleigh
JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

Santa comes but once a year
JESUS is an ever present help.

Santa fills your stockings with goodies
JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited
JESUS stands at your door and knocks.. And then enters your heart.

You have to stand in line to see Santa
JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

Santa lets you sit on his lap
JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa doesn’t know your name, all he can say is “Hi little boy or girl, What’s your name?” JESUS knew our name before we did. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future and He even knows how many hairs are on our heads.

Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly
JESUS has a heart full of love.

All Santa can offer is HO HO HO
JESUS offers health, help and hope.

Santa says “You better not cry”
JESUS says “Cast all your cares on me for I care for you.

Santa’s little helpers make toys
JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.

Santa may make you chuckle but
JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree
JESUS became our gift and died on the tree.

It’s obvious there is really no comparison.
We need to remember WHO Christmas is all about.
We need to put Christ back in Christmas.

Jesus is still the reason for the season.

May the Lord Bless and Watch over you and your loved ones this Christmas 2010 and may He prosper and bless the work of your hands in the New Year.

I am the Christmas Spirit

I am the Christmas Spirit
by Irving Caesar

I enter the home of poverty, causing pale-faced children to open their eyes wide in pleased wonder.

I cause the miser's clutched hand to relax and thus paint a bright spot on his soul.


I cause the aged to renew their youth and to laugh in the glad old way.

I keep romance alive in the heart of childhood and brighten sleep with dreams woven of magic.

I cause eager feet to climb dark stairways with filled baskets, leaving behind them hearts amazed at the goodness of the world.

I cause the prodigal to pause a moment on his wild, wasteful way and send to anxious love some little token that releases glad tears-tears which wash away the hard lines of sorrow.

I enter dark prison cells, reminding scarred manhood of what might have been, and pointing forward to good days yet to come.

I come softly into the still, white home of pain; and lips that are too weak to speak just tremble in silent, eloquent gratitude.

In a thousand ways I cause the weary world to look up into the face of God, and for a little moment forget the things that are small and wretched.

I am the Christmas Spirit.

Christmas Quizzes

I took a quiz about carols and this is the results;
You got 64% correct. Tsk. You have been shopping and eating too much and not singing enough. Study up, study up, study up let's go! The questions were a lot harder than I expected.

Which Reindeer are you?
You Are Cupid
A total romantic, you're always crushing on a new reindeer.
Why You're Naughty: You've caused so much drama, all the reindeers aren't speaking to each other.
Why You're Nice: You have a knack for playing matchmaker. You even hooked Rudolph up!

Merry Tossmas

Check out this site.

I had a friend who I worked with in North Carolina and this was a big deal for her. She wouldn't even accept Christmas cards if you wrote Merry X-Mas. I am going to admit, I am lazy and have carpal tunnel and I abbreviate. If you write a ton of cards then you understand. I am not leaving Christ out of Christmas but by the same token everyone who who says Merry Christmas isn't including Him. This isn't something that the Holy Spirit has convicted me of so I will probably keep doing it. I do resent those who want to take away my rights as a Christian because they are offended by my beliefs. I am offended by their lack of belief and stupidity.

Then sings my soul Saturday- Precious Promise

An absolutely lovely song. Lets never forget that wonderful Christmas promise given to us that we might live in Heaven eternally.

Precious Promise- Rick Trevino with John Covell

Then sings my soul Saturday- How Many kings

Down here- How many kings?
I hadn't ever heard of this band nor this song before but thought it was very blessed to hear today.

Christmas-v-Halloween

This man is new to me but I liked this video. Check out Brad Stine.

Advent Conspiracy

There is a very valuable lesson in this video.

Decorating for Christmas

Our family tradition has always been that we decorate the tree the weekend after Thanksgiving. I thought this year I might let these guys take over for us.

Happy Thankgiving

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

The things I am grateful for this year are:
1. Salvation: the most awesome free gift I ever received.
2. Family: No matter how much they get on my nerves at times I love both my girls dearly and there aren't words to describe how much I love my grandchildren.
3. Friends: I have a very dear circle of friends that I can call upon when I am troubled. There are a number of family members in this category also. Isn't it nice when your friends are also your family. You can't help if you are related to them but that you have become friends means you like them regardless.
4.

Thanksgiving quiz

I found this quiz and let me tell you its hard. I got 11 out of 20 and that was mostly by guessing. Its not stuff you normally know about Thanksgiving.

review Febreze Home Collection Wooden Wick Candle

No fireplace, no problem. Breathe a sigh of relief because the new Febreze Home Collection Wooden Wick candle has you covered. Bring the calming crackle of a burning fire into your home anytime of year with 80 hours of "ahhhhhhhh.
I was recently sent a set of 3 Febreze Home Collection Wooden Wick Candles to try out and review. I loved them. I am a candle freak and these were tall heavy glass containers that burn a long time.
Available in nine premium scents, these tranquil candles are specially designed with a wooden wick to recreate the ambiance and sound of a crackling fire indoors. Offering a brilliant range of everyday fragrances, Febreze Home Collection Wooden Wick candles can help inspire a scent and design transformation in your home. Each candle is in a clear glass jar with a Home Collection label and a wooden removable lid.

Made of a soy blend that releases fragrances as the wooden wick burns up to 80 hours. Febreze Home Collection Wooden Wick candles can be purchased at your local Walmart in fragrances like Green Tea Citrus, Pomegranate Mango, Cranberry Pear, Orange Honeycomb, Rosewood Plum and Willow Blossom; as well as seasonal scents that include Anjou Pear Spice, Gingersnap Vanilla, and Yumberry Sangria.

For review I received Anjou Pear Spice, Cranberry Pear, and Rosewood Plum. Anjou Pear Spice is a light sweetness of fresh fruit lingering in a comforting blend of spices. Cranberry Pear is a snap of cranberries blended with the crisp scent of pear. Rosewood Plum is scented with the warmth of rosewood harmonizing with the rich sweetness of plum.
My aunt who was visiting immediately wanted to smell the Rosewood Plum. She loves the rosewood fragrances. My favorite of this set was the Anjou Pear Spice. I like spice scents but I am going to have to go buy a Gingersnap Vanilla to try out. It just sounds yummy. The Anjou Pear spice is s very light scent that just hints the air with fragrance but isn't overwhelming. You wouldn't go chasing through the house trying to track the scent down, it just gently whiffs through the air and makes you smile.
The candles come with a wooden lid that I used as a coaster to sit the candle on. I don't know if thats what its for but its how I used it :). I thought the square wooden wick was just the neatest thing though. So you can smell the wood burning! How genius is that! I haven't ever had a candle with a square wick.

If you want to find out some more information you can find out at Febreze on Facebook or Febreze on Twitter.

Disclosure: I was provided with three Febreze Home Collection Candles and a $15 Walmart gift card from Febreze and MyBlogSpark. The opinions here are mine alone, and not influenced by the sponsor in any fashion.

Win a bounce house

I found an amazing contest at Momdot and I would so love to win a bounce house for the granny babies. They would have a blast on this. Tell me I am not the coolest granny out there :)

Lesson on Pumpkin Carving

Found this link and was amazed. It must be wonderful to have such talent. Can you make your pumpkin like his :).
On that note here is a very cool lesson for youth during this time.

How a Christian is like a Pumpkin

A lady recently being baptized was asked by a co-worker what it was like to be a Christian. She replied, "It's like being a pumpkin:
God picks you from the patch, brings you in, and washes all the dirt off you may have gotten from the other pumpkins.
Then he cuts the top off and scoops out all the yucky stuff.
He removes the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc.
Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see."

1. Take a pumpkin. "You aren't a pumpkin, but all of us are something like one. God picks you from the patch, brings you in, and washes all the dirt off you may have gotten from the other pumpkins." Talk about how a pumpkin is like us: it has an outside and an inside. The outside is what people see. The inside is like our soul or our heart. A pumpkin left to itself will soon rot and die. We will die some day too."

2. Carve out eyes and a small "o" shaped mouth. As you make the holes and pull out the pieces of rind, ask people what they see inside (yucky stuff). "This is what we look like to others and what we are like when are hearts are not changed. The hearts of men are full of evil and there is madness in their hearts while they live (Ecclesiastes 9:3). How can we get rid of this icky stuff?"

3. "God is the only one who can change our heart. But in order for God to change our heart we must become open to him." Carve an opening in the top of the pumpkin big enough to put your hand through. You might want to quote Revelation 3:20: Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.

4. Put in your hand and pull out the insides. "God scoops out all the yucky stuff inside of us. He removes the seeds of doubt, hate, impurity, and greed." Talk about the cross and how Jesus was willing to become messy for us, so that we might be clean. I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. (Ezekiel 36:25b-27).

5. "But if we leave a pumpkin with just the insides taken out, then it's just hollow. We need to have a light inside that will truly make us alive! Jesus said, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.' Add a light to the inside of the pumpkin. "When Jesus lives inside of you, you can glow! You will want to be kind and honest. You will want to please God, to help others, and to tell other people about your Friend and Lord."

6. At this point you might want to carve the mouth into a smile! "God carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see."

Reason's dogs hate their owners.

I confess, I am one of those people who think dog outfits are cute. Are you the type of owner in this video?

The purchase price

There once was a man named George Thomas, pastor in a small New England town. One Easter Sunday morning he came to the Church carrying a rusty, bent, old bird cage, and set it by the pulpit.
Eyebrows were raised and, as if in response, Pastor Thomas began to speak….
“I was walking through town yesterday when I saw a young boy coming toward me swinging this bird cage. On the bottom of the cage were three little wild birds, shivering with cold and fright.

I stopped the lad and asked, “What do you have there, son?”

“Just some old birds,” came the reply.

“What are you going to do with them?” I asked.

“Take ‘em home and have fun with ‘em,” he answered. “I’m gonna tease ‘em and pull out their feathers to make ‘em fight. I’m gonna have a real good time..”

“But you’ll get tired of those birds sooner or later. What will you do then?”

“Oh, I got some cats,” said the little boy. “They like birds. I’ll take ‘em to them.”

The pastor was silent for a moment. “How much do you want for those birds, son?”

“Huh??!!! Why, you don’t want them birds, mister. They’re just plain old field birds. They don’t sing. They ain’t even pretty!”

“How much?” the pastor asked again. The boy sized up the pastor as if he were crazy and said, “$10?”

The pastor reached in his pocket and took out a ten dollar bill. He placed it in the boy’s hand. In a flash, the boy was gone. The pastor picked up the cage and gently carried it to the end of the alley where there was a tree and a grassy spot. Setting the cage down, he opened the door, and by softly tapping the bars persuaded the birds out, setting them free. Well, that explained the empty bird cage on the pulpit, and then the pastor began to tell this story:



One day Satan and Jesus were having a conversation. Satan had just come from the Garden of Eden, and he was gloating and boasting. “Yes, sir, I just caught a world full of people down there. Set me a trap, used bait I knew they couldn’t resist. Got ‘em all!”

“What are you going to do with them?” Jesus asked.

Satan replied, “Oh, I’m gonna have fun! I’m gonna teach them how to marry and divorce each other, how to hate and abuse each other, how to drink and smoke and curse. I’m gonna teach them how to invent guns and bombs and kill each other. I’m really gonna have fun!”

“And what will you do when you are done with them?” Jesus asked.

“Oh, I’ll kill ‘em,” Satan glared proudly.

“How much do you want for them?” Jesus asked.

“Oh, you don’t want those people. They ain’t no good. Why, you’ll take them and they’ll just hate you. They’ll spit on you, curse you and kill you. You don’t want those people!!”

“How much? He asked again.

Satan looked at Jesus and sneered, “All your blood, tears and your life.”

Jesus said, “DONE!” Then He paid the price.

The pastor picked up the cage and walked from the pulpit.

Then Sings My Soul-Dogs of Glory

I read a Joyce Meyer's book this week Woman to Woman and it deeply blessed me. I came away from the book with the revelation that Jesus died that I might have life and have it more abundantly not that I might be so miserable. I have wallowed for years in unhappiness due to one thing or another but now I am clinging to the thought that I am meant to be happy.

I found this cute little song made me happy and I had to smile watching it.

Found some more deals

I did some great deals at the drug stores today.
Went to Walgreen's and they have the new lemon raspberry halls on sale for $1 and it prints a $1 register reward plus the latest edition of all you magazine has a 75 cents off coupon for the same product in it so you will actually make 75 cents on this deal. Todays coupons has a coupon in it for $1 off 2 bags so you could still get 2 bags for nothing after the rr prints out. I have a couple more deals I plan to do at Walgreen's this week but had to wait until I clipped the coupons for them. Crest Pro-Health Toothpaste 4.2 oz or Oral-B Advantage 1-2-3 Toothbrush $2.49 = $1.50 RR Use the $1/1 Crest Pro-Health coupon from the 9/26 PG or use the $0.75/1 Oral-B coupon from the 10/10 PG) I only have the coupon from 10/10 so mine will be .24 for the toothbrush.
Final cost as low as FREE!

Went to CVS and scanned my card and a coupon printed out for 99 cents off brachs candy corn and it was on sale for .99 so that made it free.

I also got some more free toothpaste. You should never have to buy this as often as there are deals out there. Colgate Total Advanced or Enamel Strength Toothpaste 4 oz. $2.99 = $2.99 Each (Limit 2). There is a coupon in the All You magazine plus todays paper or here so this is a money maker.

Also I had read this one online but my CVS had no sign to say it was a deal but I tried it and it worked, AZO Maximum Strength Itch Relief Cream 1 oz or wipes 12 ct $6.99 get a 5 Ecb (Limit 5!) There is a $2 coupon to print here that makes it free. I printed my 5 and will get a mix of cream and wipes. Never tried this product but you know how I feel about free.

I also did a great deal for Quaker instant oatmeal. I printed 2 coupons for $2 off from here and it was on sale for 2/$5 so the coupons made it $1 plus there was $2 ecb (limit of 1) back on it so I made a dollar on this deal.

Garnier Moisture Rescue from Target Just signed up to get one of these from Wal-Mart a couple days ago and now Target is offering one. I love samples. BTW these make great gift ideas to put in gift baskets for the holidays. I usually collect samples all year and give them to the elderly, my girls and teenagers. All three groups love to get these type baskets.

Also grabbed this coupon from the Parade magazine in today's paper. 2 FREE 5×7 HP Photo Greeting Cards Coupon (Valid a new HP Kiosks– located in Walmart) I got 3 Parades in my paper for some reason so I have coupons to get 6 cards free.

Dove Damage Therapy Daily Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner Sample this is from Costco and the first line asks for your Costco membership number but it doesn't have an astrick so you can order it without one.

Some freebies and deals.

I am burned out on Facebook games hopefully for good. I spent most of the last couple days catching up on some emails. I had quite a number of product review offers and some great freebies in there. I will be having another blog giveaway in a couple weeks. In the meantime, here are some freebies I have sent off for in the past couple days.

Garnier Anti-Dandruff shampoo I really like the Garnier line of products and can't wait to try this one out. Don't forget to check the Wal-Mart site often. They usually have 3 or 4 samples at a time. Right now they are also offering Tena and Crest samples.

Kleenex Tissues send a pocket pack to a friend.

Mercury Magazine Redbook offer I got a 3 month subscription from here but some people have said they got a year subscription.

Target Samples Target currently only has a Tide Original with Acti-Life Laundry detergent but when I was there a couple days ago they also had a Glad trash bag sample. So keep checking this page.

Advil they say the first 500,000 will get a coupon for a free bottle of Advil. I signed up for mine.

Shout Color Grabber
I have no clue what this is but figured I would find out.
These aren't freebies but are really good deals. McDonald's, Burger King, and Wendy's are all offering trick or treat coupon books for $1. They have coupons in them for free products.
McDonald's offers
(3) FREE Apple Dippers
(3) FREE Small Cone
(3) FREE Small Apple Juice or Milk Jug
(3) FREE Hamburger
Coupons are valid for use 11/1/10 – 12/31/10 Redeemable by children 12 and under.

Burger King offers
(7) FREE Value Size Fries
(1) FREE Small Soft Drink or ICEE
Coupons are valid 10/1/10 – 12/31/10! There is no age restrictions on the coupons, but they do limit one coupon per customer, per visit!

Wendy's offers (this one is my favorite)
10 FREE Jr Frosty Coupons! The coupons state no purchase necessary to redeem, one coupon per person per visit!
The coupons are valid 11/1/10 – 2/1/11

The Lord's Ballgame

found this will surfing blogs. I have no idea who wrote it. I googled it but never found it attributed to anyone. So here it is.

The Lord's Ballgame

Freddy and the Lord stood by to observe a baseball game. The Lord's team was playing Satan's team. The Lord's team was at bat, the score was tied zero to zero, and it was the bottom of the 9th inning with two outs.

They continued to watch as a batter named Love stepped up to the plate. Love swung at the first pitch and hit a single, because "Love never fails."

The next batter was named Faith, who also got a single because Faith works with Love.

The next batter up was named Godly Wisdom. Satan wound up and threw the first pitch. Godly Wisdom looked it over and let it pass: ball one. Three more pitches and Godly Wisdom walked because he never swings at what Satan throws.

The bases were now loaded. The Lord then turned to Freddy and told him He was now going to bring in His star player.

Up to the plate stepped Grace. Freddy said, "He sure doesn't look like much!"

Satan's whole team relaxed when they saw Grace. Thinking he had won the game, Satan wound up and fired his first pitch. To the shock of everyone, Grace hit the ball harder than anyone had ever seen! But Satan was not worried; his center fielder let very few get by. He went up for the ball, but it went right through his glove, hit him on the head and sent him crashing on the ground; the roaring crowds went wild as the ball continued over the fence for a home run!

The Lord's team won!

The Lord then asked Freddy if he knew why Love, Faith and Godly Wisdom could get on base but couldn't win the game. Freddy answered that he didn't know why.

The Lord explained, "If your love, faith and wisdom had won the game, you would think you had done it by yourself. Love, Faith and Wisdom will get you on base, but only My Grace can get you Home"

For by Grace are you saved, it is a gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory ; no good thin will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11

Life update

I haven't been updating lately because my life has been in a huge turmoil. My car blew up so I had to quit my job. Since I had no job I decided to move back to North Carolina because I have family there and its a lot easier to get around. They have public transportation plus there is a lot of local stuff to do. My oldest daughter and her boyfriend moved out here also. We all applied for city housing (sort of like HUD but not quite) and are on the waiting list now. I have applied for unemployment and am waiting to hear if they are going to let me have it. It has to be reviewed since I quit my job. I have actually interviewed for another state job and if I would be offered it at a good salary I would move back to WV and stay with a friend until I got paid and could afford a place of my own.
I am missing my grandkids like crazy. I broke up with the boyfriend because after 2 years we weren't going anywhere. I honestly believe he won't ever marry anyone. He was an awesome guy but I don't have 20 years to wait for him to make up his mind. I am spending a lot of time studying the bible and praying. I am staying with my aunt. Thankfully she has a big house since its me, her son and his 4 kids, 1 other granddaughter and her and her husband. Its hard to find alone time. I haven't gotten to go to church since I have been here because I have no car. I am hoping I get an apartment soon and I can walk to church at least.

the Father's song

I heard this while browsing some other blogs and just thought it was so lovely that I wanted to share it this week. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

Some nice freebies

I love taking pictures with my digital camera I got using my swagbuck Amazon dollars. I like offers that let me print them for nothing. Here is a great offer from Kodak that lets you print a small 5x7 photobook for only $1.99 shipping. The book is free. My granddaughter loves photo albums. I am not sure if this will be a present for her, my mother, my daughter or the other mamaw yet. If it comes by next week when I am hoping to go visit my mother, then I will take it to her. She hasn't ever seen her only great-grandson in person.

I also ordered me another years subscription to Woman's Day, this link was working earlier but the free mags go fast so I don't know if its still good.

Shadow Puppets

Do you remember being a kid and making shadow puppets? My cousins and I were fascinated with this. We got to the point we could make rabbits, ducks and a couple of other animals. What all can you do with shadow puppets? I saw this video and was amazed. This man is really talented.

Find more videos like this on www.truveo.com.

Akiane

This little girl is amazing. God is such a miracle worker.

Babcock State Park

My boyfriend and I have have made a couple trips now to Babcock State Park. Neither of us have ever been before so it was a unique experience. We are trying to do more of the tourist things in our own state. The first day we went was on Saturday evening and we got there just after 5pm. They have a grist mill there but it closes at 5 so we didn't get to see it. The next day we got there early and was able to tour the mill. They do need to replace the floors in it though. I am sure its original flooring but its quite weak in some places and if not repaired soon there will be an accident. Also it has a lot of mill equipment sitting around on the floors and if you look in the handout it tells what the equipment is but I think it would be better to have it labeled. They actually grind corn meal there at the mill, they weren't grinding the day we were there because the water levels were too low they said but we were able to buy some corn meal they had on hand. I made corn bread as soon as I got home and it was honestly hands down the best cornbread I ever ate. It also stayed soft longer and didn't get hard setting out like it normally would have. I let a few other people try it and they agreed it was amazing tasting. Fresh is better than chemically processed from the store. The recipe I used is here.






We did some fishing but all we caught were tiny baby bluegills. I would like to spend some time exploring the trails. It is very beautiful there. Here are some pictures from our 2 trips there. This is the lake.




Here are a couple the fish we caught. My boyfriend caught the second one and I caught the first one. I didn't put mine on the ground, he jumped off the pole and I had to chase him around to catch him to put him back in the water :). I promise you they were much smaller than they look in these pictures. I have seen minnows bigger. We are catch and release people so these naturally are back in their home to grow some more.



This is a dragonfly I saw hovering around so I snapped a picture.

Evan Roberts

The 1904 Welsh Revival moved a nation. One of the most famous men from that revival was Evan Roberts. Evan had led a life following Christ up to this point but still felt led to draw closer. One night he was woken from his sleep and led into a deep communion with God for hours. This experience was to continue every evening for the next few months until he went away to the school at Newcastle Emlyn. 2 weeks after arriving at school he went to a revival and received a fresh Baptism of the Spirit. Sometimes we all need to refreshed in our walk. Cares of life and daily living make us tired and we need to be renewed. Look at walk God accomplished because Evan was willing to respond.
Within a month he felt compelled to share this message of the reality of God and the possibility of complete forgiveness of sins with his home youth group at Moriah Loughor.

Summing up the message in 4 parts, Evan pressed it home to the astonished church

1. Confess all known sin

2. Deal with and get rid of anything ‘doubtful’ in your life

3. Be ready to obey the Holy Spirit instantly

4. Confess Christ publicly

By the end of the last week over 60 responded. By the end of the second week Evan had already started on a whirl-wind tour of the South Wales valleys with his team of 5 girl singers and within a year or so 100,000 converts were said to be added to the Welsh Church.
I encourage you to spend some time in prayer, read the Word and see what God wants to accomplish in your life.

Taylor Made

On July 3rd, we all went to Fayetteville to the weekend celebration for the 4th and saw Taylor Made. They are a local WV band that has been on the Nashville charts for new music. You can tell by watching them, that they love to perform. Some people work to make it in country music and then retire once they make a lot of money and some stick it out for the long haul. You can imagine that the ones that stick it out are the ones who love performing and need to make music to satisfy their souls. Here are a couple of videos I made. Keeper of the cage is one of my favorite songs and the Billie Jean video has some crowd clips. One boy started some kind of weird convulted dancing and there was a little girl dancing who was absolutely adorable. There is a lot of static I think because we were so close to the speakers.

Goodbye Mr. Byrd

Its been several days ago but on June 28th 2010 the greatest politician the state of West Virginia has ever known passed away. Robert C Byrd was the longest-serving member in the history of the United States Congress. He was first elected to the US Senate in 1958 after being a member of the House of Representatives the previous 6 years. He served and was elected to an 9th term in 2006.
I can remember watching him on television and being amazed at his knowledge. He could quote from the Bible, poems, stories and legalese with ease. He didn't use notes and would just go from one thing to another. He was already an old man suffering from Parkinson's at that point. My grandmother had Parkinson's also so maybe that's why it struck with me. He was responsible for over a billion dollars being funneled into WV for building roads, bridges and buildings. Many have criticized by many for his pork belly spending but isn't that why states elect senators, so that they will work to promote the well being of the state in the federal government? Recalling Byrd's ability to bring billions of dollars to West Virginia, former President Bill Clinton said he told the senator: "If you pave every single inch of West Virginia, it's going to be much harder to mine coal." Byrd responded that "the Constitution does not prohibit humble servants from delivering whatever they can to their constituents."
He was a man who made mistakes along the way but wasn't afraid or ashamed to admit that he was wrong. Looking at his voting record you can see how he changed over the years. We must continue to grow and learn and not stay stuck in our ways during life's journeys. There will never be a man to equal him in Senate again. This was truly the passing of a legend. These words from 2 Timothy 4:7 certainly apply to him
"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith". R.I.P Mr. Byrd and enjoy the rewards you earned on this Earth.

Then sings my Soul Saturday- Pledge of Alliegiance and You're`1 a Grand old Flag

While surfing the net I found these pledges. I remember doing the pledge of Allegiance to the Flag in school but not one for the Christian flag or the bible.




I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

I pledge allegiance to the Christian Flag and to the Savior for whose Kingdom it stands. One Savior, crucified, risen, and coming again with life and liberty to all who believe.


I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God's Holy Word, I will make it a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path and will hide its words in my heart that I might not sin against God.


I remember my daughter singing over and over the song "You're a Grand Old Flag" when she was in kindergarten and first grade in Virginia but once we moved back to WV no one sang it. We used to sing it while waiting at the bus stop but over time we just forgot. I thought it would be appropriate for here. I searched and searched but almost all versions on You-Tube are simply the tunes. I like the words.

Happy 4th of July

Have you ever wondered what happened to the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence?

Five signers were captured by the British as traitors, and tortured before they died.

Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned.

Two lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary Army;

another had two sons captured.

Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or hardships of the Revolutionary War.

They signed and they pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor.

What kind of men were they?

Twenty-four were lawyers and jurists. Eleven were merchants, nine were farmers and large plantation owners;
men of means, well educated, but they signed the Declaration of Independence knowing full well that the penalty would be death if they were captured.

Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the British Navy. He sold his home and properties to pay his debts, and died in rags

Thomas McKeam was so hounded by the British that he was forced to move his family almost constantly.
He served in the Congress without pay, and his family was kept in hiding. His possessions were taken from him,
and poverty was his reward..

Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of Dillery, Hall, Clymer, Walton, Gwinnett, Heyward, Ruttledge, and Middleton.

At the battle of Yorktown , Thomas Nelson, Jr., noted that the British General Cornwallis had taken over the Nelson home for his headquarters. He quietly urged General George Washington to open fire. The home was
destroyed, and Nelson died bankrupt.

Francis Lewis had his home and properties destroyed. The enemy jailed his wife, and she died within a few months.
John Hart was driven from his wife's bedside as she was dying. Their 13 children fled for their lives. His fields and his gristmill were laid to waste. For more than a year he lived in forests and caves, returning home to find his wife dead and his children vanished.
So, take a few minutes while enjoying your 4th of July holiday and silently thank these patriots. It's not much to ask for the price they paid.

Remember: freedom is never free!

4th of July

Most people have no clue what the government is even means. I thought this video did a good job explaining it all.

Then sings my Soul Saturday- Sanctus Real- I'm not alright

I couldn't think of anything for this week. I have had a very stressful week. My mother who has emphysema got pneumonia this week and has been in the ICU on life support. Today they are going to try to wean her off the breathing machines and see if she can breath on her own. I have spent much time in prayer because even more than a physical healing she needs a spiritual healing. She isn't ready to meet the lord and I pray He gives her one more time to make things right. We should never assume we have enough time since no man knows the day nor the hour when the Lord will return. Nor do we know how much time we have here on earth. If you aren't where you need to be then take some time and search the Word and give yourself to God. You won't regret a single minute of it. You will spend more time regretting the fact you waited so long.
Anyway, like I said I couldn't come up with anything for this week's meme and then when I went to Amy's page and heard her song I loved it so I looked up a few more by Sanctus Real and found one that I thought I would share.

Judge Not

Just a little poem I got in the mail and thought I would share. For the past week or so God has really been dealing with me about forgiving others in my past and not being bitter. I have had 2 church services preached on that message from 2 different people and then I was at someone's blog and they had a posting on the same thing. I think judging is another form of being bitter and not letting go of the past. When you do this you are allowing those people to control your current life not just the past.

Judge Not
I was shocked, confused, bewildered
As I entered Heaven's door,
Not by the beauty of it all,
Nor the lights or its decor.

But it was the folks in Heaven
Who made me sputter and gasp--
The thieves, the liars, the sinners,
and the trash.

There stood the kid from seventh grade
Who swiped my lunch money twice.
Next to him was my old neighbor
Who never said anything nice.

Herb, who I always thought
Was rotting away in hell,
Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,
Looking incredibly well.

I nudged Jesus, 'What's the deal?
I would love to hear Your take.
How'd all these sinners get up here?
God must've made a mistake.

'And why is everyone so quiet,
So somber - give me a clue.'
'Hush, child,' He said, 'they're all in shock.
No one thought they'd be seeing you.'

JUDGE NOT!!

Remember...Just going to church doesn't make you a
Christian any more than standing in your garage makes you a car.

Every saint has a PAST...
Every sinner has a FUTURE!
Now it's your turn... Share this poem.

Alphabet Meme

Found while surfing around so thought I would post it. I used to post stuff like this on Myspace a long time ago.

Alphabet Meme
A is for your age: 42
B is for your burger of choice: cheeseburgers with tomato and mayo. I really liked the new grilled cheese burger from Hardee's though.
C is for the car that you drive: 1994 buick regal grand sport (I think)
D is for dog's name: I don't have a dog anymore
E is for an essential item you use each day: computer
F is for your favorite television show: House but I watch it online
G is for favorite game: lately its been facebook games but I am taking a sabbatical from them.
H is for hometown: Most of my life has been spent in small town West Virginia
I is for instruments played: none... I would love to learn to play the piano...
J is for favorite juice: concord grape juice
K is for what you'd like to kick: poverty
L is for last restaurant you dined at: Captain D's
M is for your favorite Muppet: Kermit
N is for number of piercings you have: nothing crazy... only one in each of my ears
O is for overnight hospital stays: growing up I thought I lived at the hospital I was there so much but the last time I was in the hospital was when I had my gall bladder out in 1997 I think
P is for people you were with today: home alone all day
Q is for what you do in quiet times: surf the net, blog, read
R is for regrets: I try not to think of them since you can't change them.
S is for status: unhappily single
T is for time you woke up today: 6 something
U is for what you consider unique: not sure
V is for favorite vegetable: corn on the cob
W is for your worst habit: thinking too much
X is for x-rays you have had: I am probably glowing I have had so many x-rays
Y is for yummy food you ate today: so far just can soup
Z is for zodiac sign: Aries but I trust in God for my guidance not some stars alignment

Happy Birthday West Virginia

Technically June 20th is WV day. But I work for the state and this year since June 20th is a Sunday, they are observing WV day on June 21st. West Virginia is the only state to be birthed from the Civil War. During the Civil War, the Virginia General Assembly in Richmond chose to join the Confederate States of America, much to the chagrin of some of the leaders in the trans-Allegheny region of the state. These leaders gradually pushed for the creation of a new state. After two years of legal maneuvering, West Virginia was formally admitted to the United States of America on June 20, 1863, it is the only state created from another state without the parent state's permission, and that it is the only state to achieve statehood by the proclamation of a president (Abraham Lincoln). It was on June 20, 1863, the Reverend J.T. McLure offered the State's inaugural prayer. Referring to the fact that the State was created in the middle of the American Civil War, he prayed:

"We pray Thee, almighty God, that this State, born amidst tears and blood and fire and desolation, may long be preserved and from its little beginning may grow to be a might and a power that shall make those who come after us look upon it with joy and gladness and pride of heart."

If you have never been to West Virginia, you are missing a treat. Its beautiful country full of mountains and rivers. I often post pictures and will post again I am sure.
When I lived in North Carolina and was homesick this is the song I would listen too. I grew up hearing this song.

On Trial

As usual, while blog surfing I found this and wanted to share it. Too often we are guilty of the same thing. Perhaps if we stop and realize that each time we question someone's past we are questioning the power of the blood of Jesus, then we will stop it. I pray God helps me use this in my life.

One night in a church service a young woman felt the tug of God at her heart. She responded to God's call and accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior. The young woman had a very rough past, involving alcohol, drugs, and prostitution. But, the change in her was evident.

As time went on she became a faithful member of the church. She eventually became involved in the ministry, teaching young children. It was not very long until this faithful young woman had caught the eye and heart of the pastor's son. The relationship grew and they began to make wedding plans. This is when the problems began.

You see, about one half of the church did not think that a woman with a past such as hers was suitable for a pastor's son. The church began to argue and fight about the matter. So they decided to have a meeting. As the people made their arguments and tensions increased, the meeting was getting completely out of hand. The young woman became very upset about all the things being brought up about her past.

As she began to cry the pastor's son stood to speak. He could not bear the pain it was causing his wife to be. He began to speak and his statement was this:
"My fiancee's past is not what is on trial here. What you are questioning
is the ability of the blood of Jesus to wash away sin. Today you have put
the blood of Jesus on trial. So, does it wash away sin or not?"

The whole church began to weep as they realized that they had been slandering the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Too often, even as Christians, we bring up the past and use it as a weapon against our brothers and sisters. Forgiveness is a very foundational part of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

If the blood of Jesus does not cleanse the other person completely then it cannot cleanse us completely. If that is the case, then we are all in a lot of trouble.

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

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

Then sings my soul Saturday- Jason Crabb

This past week has been campmeeting time for my church. Unfortunately I was sick the whole week and was only able to attend Ladies Day on Wednesday and Friday night. Last night instead of the normal services they had a special singer come in and he also preached. His name is Jason Crabb and he is originally part of the Crabb Family. I really loved hearing him talk. His singing is a mix of all genres. Jason is a simple country boy from Kentucky that God has used in a mighty way. He related the story of when he went to California to receive a Grammy and the next day he stayed to fulfill a lifelong dream of being on the Price is Right. He is different from your ordinary preacher but that doesn't make him wrong. He was very funny and down the earth. I was so blessed from his preaching. Jason brought a message about if Satan had to tell the truth. The whole sermon was the point out how each and everyone of us has a God given destiny and yet Satan lies to us and makes us think we are nothing and it won't get any better. I think he probably has done a lot of time as a youth preacher. I bought his latest cd and these songs is on it. There is another song on it called Walk on Water that I also liked a lot but I couldn't find the video for it.

Rain

I was so disappointed yesterday. We were supposed to go to Babcock State Park. It was free fishing weekend in WV and since I can't afford to buy my license until Tuesday, I was looking forward to fishing. I also wanted to go on the paddle boats. I haven't paddle boated (?) in years but it rained then rained some more and then finally rained even more here in Southern WV about all day.

We were in the mood for fast food so we went to Hardee's. The boyfriend got the mushroom swiss burger and I got the new grilled cheese bacon cheeseburger. That burger is awesome. I am sure the calorie count is out the window since its got 2 slices of melted cheese on the top and 2 on the bottom but it was worth it. I have been wanting a burger for days. I wish they would make a grilled cheese hot ham and cheese like that. I love cheese. Then we ended up going to see the new A-Team movie. We both loved watching the A-Team growing up. We both loved the movie. It was a great mix of comedy and action. There was a lot more cussing then either of us would have liked but anymore its hard to find adult movies that aren't like that. This movie would have been killer in 3-D though. Bradley Cooper was hot although I have to admit I really still prefer Dirk Benedict. But since Dirk was on the show weekly he had a lot more time to build up the humor. I think this group was as good a mix as the original. I would like to see this brought back as a weekly show but since I doubt that's going to happen, thankfully you can watch the original shows at Hulu for free. I love Hulu btw. I will leave you with a picture of Bradley Cooper. He has awesome abs and the face isn't bad to look at either, of course I didn't tell my boyfriend that :)

keep on trying

Have you ever just had a job where you didn't fit. It wasn't what you were called to do. I think everyone has a calling on their lives, it just takes some of us longer to find it. I thought this information was neat, its from Hardly Famous. So if you hate your job then ask God to help you find what you were meant to do and keep searching until you find it. I don't think you have to be rich or famous to find your calling but I do think once you find you calling you will be content and happy.


Michael Jordan – His first job was in a hotel and it lasted a week. (I actually loved working in a hotel, I like talking to different people all the time and helping the lost travelers find their way)
Bono – Gas station attendant. (I didn't mind this job except for the grief you get when you have it I.D. people or dealing with the thieves who steal gas and you are accountable. I loved talking to the customers though and I can honestly say I did a great job and my customers all loved me because I went the extra mile.)
Al Pacino – He got fired from his first job as a cinema usher.
Mariah Carey – Hat checker (she got fired).
Stephen King – Janitor.
Robin Williams – Ice-cream scooper.
Jennifer Aniston – Telemarketer. (I sucked at this. I am not aggressive enough and I don't like using the phone)
Warren Beaty – Rat catcher.
Tom Hanks – Popcorn and peanuts vendor.
Madonna – Worked at a Dunkin Donuts.
Clint Eastwood – Pool boy, gas station attendant.
Brad Pitt – Dressed as a giant chicken for a Mexican restaurant.
Ellen Degeneres – Cleaned cars.
Rod Stewart – Grave digger.
Mick Jagger – Porter in a mental hospital.
Nicolas Cage – Sold popcorn at a theatre.
Julia Roberts – Worked in an ice cream shop.
Quentin Tarantino – Video store clerk.
Danny DeVito – Hairdresser in his sister’s salon.
Keanu Reeves – Janitor.

Bible Study- The Heart of a King- lesson 5

Lesson 5 talks about redemption. Hezekiah made some bad choices and didn't ask God for guidance nor did he seem to trust in the Lord for his help. There are times we all make decisions without consulting God. Sometimes its because we think we can manage on our own, sometimes we let emotions cloud our judgement so we aren't thinking clearly, sometimes its just ignorance but whatever the reason anytime we make decisions without the will of God in our lives there are going to be consequences. The bible tells us that God is faithful and just to forgive us when we humble ourselves and confess our sin. We have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus. Redeemed means to buy back, so Jesus bought us back from Satan since due to sin we became property of Satan.

Personal Reflections
1. Have you ever given in to the pressure of the enemy or of the world? Have you succumbed to fear, bitterness, anger, etc.? Have you handed over any precious things of God in your life to sin? Explain.
I am one of those people who react emotionally and then have to deal with the results.I left church at a very crucial point in my girls teen years and now I am still dealing with the issues. Neither of them are saved but I am trusting in the promises of God. His word tells us that if we train up a child in the way when the child is old he will not depart from the Word.

2. Look up the following verses. How do they encourage you?

* Ephesians 1:7-8
7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence;

* Colossians 1:13-14
3 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:
14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

It is so wonderful to know that you can fully trust in the promises of God. Sometimes as humans we make promises but aren't able to keep them. God keeps every promise and that is our security because one of the most important promises is that if we confess our sins He will forgive us. Confession has to come from the soul though, lip service isn't going to work. There are so many blessings promised to us in the Word if we would just work to claim them in our lives.

Bible Study- The Heart of a King- lesson 4

Lesson 4 is about how choices you make can and do affect future generations just like the ones from the past affected you.

Personal Reflections
1. Are there any areas of bondage in your life that are related to generational issues? I will be honest and say that I think weak morals have affected my family for a goodly while and I think it has created bondage for a lot of the family.

2. Are you willing to be the one God uses to deliver your family from that bondage? Yes but I am not sure how God could use me for it.

3. Look up Philippians 4:13 and write it out. What does this verse tell us? How does it encourage you? Whatever changes need to be made in your life, Christ can strengthen you to take the steps necessary to make those changes. With man, things may seem impossible to accomplish. But with God all things are possible.
This is one of my favorite verses and God has really been reaffirming this in my life for the past month. About a month ago the Holy Spirit just showed me how incredibly powerful this verse was. We tend to use the word all when we don't mean it. We mean most of the time or much. But if you take that verse and substitute the words each and every one for all its mind blowing.

I can do each and every thing through Christ which strengtheneth me.

I have gotten such a powerful blessing from that and its been going on for a month.

Bible Study- The Heart of a King- lesson 3

Lesson 3 is about learning to be careful in who we take advice from. Sometimes even when they mean well our loved ones will steer us in a direction that isn't the one God would have us to follow. Its not human nature to pick the harder course, even water follows the path of least resistance but by following that path we don't grow strong.

Personal Reflections
1. Are you careful about who you listen to and what advice you follow? I usually will consult a variety of friends and family and pray about the right choice. Thats not to say I always take it but I try at least.

2. Look up Scriptures that talk about seeking Godly counsel. Write each Scripture reference down and share with the group.
Psalm 1:1 says How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers

Proverbs 13:20 says He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm

Proverbs 14:15 says The naïve believes everything, but the sensible man considers his steps

My favorite is Jeremiah 29:11 which says For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. In the New International Version it goes like this 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.

June 7th 2010 blog contests

I found some more to enter. I am just a person who does stuff in phases apparently. 3 links are all I could manage before I was too distracted to surf :).

1. Cartoon Lovin' Mama if having a contest for Burn Cream Md. I haven't tried this but would be awesome to add to the first aid kit. Ends June 16, 2010 @ Midnight CST.

2. Wishing Penny is having a contest to win a Shawn the Sheep DVD which ends on June 13th at 11 :59 am EST. I won a Shaun the Sheep dvd several months back and the grandkids loved it. I would really like to win another one for them since we have a birthday coming up in 2 weeks.

3. Coolest Kid Reviews is having a contest for another dvd. Its called Secrets of the Mountains ends June 17th. I have vaguely heard of it but not a lot. She is also having a contest for some awesome light up marble racers ends June 16th. My grandson would love these.

Blog Contests to enter

I have really been missing winning prizes. As most of you know who follow the blog I was smoking hot the beginning of the year and then I had a lot going on in my life and stopped entering contests. I love the blog contests because normally the prizes are something that is new to me and that I wouldn't have thought to buy for myself. So today here are a few contests I have entered this morning.

1. over at The Homemade Guru they are offering a contest for some bath products from Catie Beth ends Thursday, June 10, 2010. Now anyone who knows me, knows I am addicted to pampering products. I have tons of bath products that I can't seem to stop buying :). I would love to win this contest.

2. Chubby Cheeks Thinks is having a giveaway for Lady Anti-Monkey powder and Baby Anti-Monkey powder ends on June 10, 2010 at 11:59 pm EST. I am told this stuff is awesome and I want to win.

3. One Scrappy Mom is having several giveaways. I want to win the creatively speaking prize pack which ends Saturday, June, 12, 2010.. Lets face it, I have no creative talent on my own so I need a kit to get anything done.

4. Stay at Home Mom is having a book giveaway ends June 18, 2010 11:59 PM EST. I love love love books and this book- Muffins and Mayhem sounds like a great book. I would really love to win this book. I read so much I can't afford to buy enough to keep me reading. Most authors can't keep up with my reading appetite. I read a book at least every other day. If I have time I can read a couple a day but those days are rare anymore.

5. Able2Able is having a Wanchai Ferry giveaway. The prize is a coupon for a WanChai meal and 2 of the cutest tea cups. I want those cups. This contest ends at 11:59 pm (CT) on Thursday, June 10th.

So there you have it, 5 great contests for some really neat prizes. Good luck

Bible Study- The Heart of a King- lesson 2

Lesson 2 is about fighting your own battles and not allowing others to do it for you.
I am really bad for this one. I hate conflict and will give in every time until you have backed me in a corner. I know there are times we are supposed to fight our own battles but lets face it, a lot of us have the Snow White mentality waiting for the prince to ride up and save us.


1. Have you ever made a decision out of your frustration? Yes __x__ No ____
If so, what was the result? I often seem to pick the wrong choice because in the past, I haven't always asked God for His guidance in my life.

2. Can you think of a time when you were really frustrated yet, instead of hastily reacting and making a decision, you prayed about it? What happened in that situation after you prayed? These are the times that have turned out best. It seems like the more desperate the situation, the more I trust God. I think sometimes in my mind that I don't want to bother Him with unimportant details but I know that He cares about everything in our lives. If I would come to Him with the little stuff then it wouldn't be such a mess for him to fix.

3. Have you ever wanted someone else to fight your battles for you? When you are tempted to pass the baton to someone else and bow out of the fight, what are some things you can do to keep your eyes focused on God? the last really big problem I was having, I kept asking God to fix it or make it go away. Neither happened and someone at church told me that God was helping me through it not past it. My boyfriend relates a story that bears on this. When you see a chick fighting to get out of its shell, you are tempted to step in and help it by picking the pieces. Unfortunately if you do this the chick isn't strong enough and usually will end up lame and unable to get around on its own. If God or anyone else fought all our battles for us then we wouldn't build any strength up and would crumble in the face of adversity. We are being tempered in the fire so that we can stand for eternity.

Bible Study- The Heart of a King- lesson 1

While surfing around on the links for the Then Sings My Soul meme, I found a bible study meme that is very good. I am about 2-3 months late starting it but that's ok. I love to study the Bible and get closer to God.





An Online Devotional Study Based on the Life of King Hezekiah

By Karen Lowe

This is the first lesson in the series and its basically about learning to be content with what you have, where you are at. I don't think we should stop striving to improve our lives and do better than we are doing but I also don't think we should
let it overtake us. Sometimes people are so busy making money or chasing dreams they pass up the very thing that God wanted them to have.

Personal Reflections
1. Have you ever had the “grass is always greener” mentality?
Yes __x__ No ____
I often am discontent with my life. This is a very area that I need God to work in. I am going to have to really strive to seek His answers here.

If you answered yes, did you take actions to gain what was on the other side of the fence where the grass seemed greener? If you got what was on the other side of that fence, were you really content in the long-term? Explain.

I left church chasing after the things the world had to offer. I was sure I could find love if I just searched hard enough. Its very hard to for me to step back and let God work in my life. I want to do it my way and this has been a horrible mistake for me. The men I choose didn't bring me love or happiness or contentment. They left me hollow and feeling sadder than I was to start with. Now I have come back to God and yet I am still struggling with this same thing. I still want the happy, enduring love that I see others have. I am still struggling to let God control this area for me. I am very much a work in progress.


2. What are some ways you can cultivate the attitude of contentment in day-to-day living? (I'd like for us to definitely discuss this question in the comments and on our blogs.) I find I am most content when I stay focused on God's teachings. I do this with Bible study, worship songs and fellowship with God's followers and much much prayer.

Then sings my soul Saturday- Keep me in your will.

I went to a revival a few weeks ago and this song was sung. I really liked it. I am sure I have heard it many times before but it meant something special to me that night.

Fun facts about states

Saw this and thought it was pretty neat. I remember when I was in 5th grade I bought a book that listed fun facts about states and it created in me a desire to travel to every state and see what they had to offer. Thus far I still haven't achieved it but only God knows what the future holds.

A Fun Fact for Each State:

Alabama....was the first place to have 9-1-1, started in 1968
Alaska....one out of every 64 people has a pilot's license.
Arizona...if the only state in the continental US that doesn't follow Daylight savings time.
Arkansas....has the only active diamond mine in the US

California....its economy is so large that if it were a country, it would rank seventh in the entire world.
Colorado....in 1976 it became the only state to turn down the Olympics
Connecticut....the Frisbee was invented here at Yale University

Delaware....has more scientists and engineers than any other state.

Georgia....it was here, in 1886, that pharmacist John Pemberton made the first vat of Coca-Cola. I think this man should have gotten a medal of honor for this.

Hawaii....Hawaiians live, on average, five years longer than residents in any other state.

Idaho....TV was invented in Rigby, Idaho, in 1922
Illinois....the Chicago River is dyed green every St. Patricks Day. Wouldn't it be neat to see this in person.
Indiana....Home to Santa Clause, Indiana which get a half million letters to Santa every year.
Iowa....Winnebago's get their name from Winnebago County. Also, it is the only state that begins with two vowels.

Kansas....Liberal, Kansas, has an exact replica of the house in the Wizard of Oz. I love that movie and would so love to see this house.
Kentucky....has more than $6billion in gold underneath Fort Knox

Louisiana....has parishes instead of counties because they were originally Spanish church units.

Maine....Its so big, it covers as many square miles as the other five New England states combined.
Maryland....The Ouija board was created in Baltimore in 1892. I can't say I would consider this a fun fact.
Massachusetts....the Fig Newton is named after Newton, Massachusetts.
Michigan....Fremont, home to Gerber,is the baby food capital of the world.
Minnesota....Bloomington's Mall of America is so big, if you spent 10 minutes in each store, you'd be there nearly four days.
Missouri....is the birthplace of the ice cream cone. Now this is a fact to be proud of.
Montana....a sapphire from Montana is in the Crown Jewels of England. Thats pretty cool

Nebraska....more triplets are born here than in any other state. I should have moved there when I was having kids. I always wanted triplets.
New Hampshire....birthplace of Tupperware, invented in 1938 by Earl Tupper
New Jersey....has the most shopping malls in one area in the world
New Mexico...Smokey the Bear was rescued from a 1950 forest fire here. I loved watching the Smokey the Bear videos and see the forest rangers in school growing up. I don't think they do this nearly as much anymore.
New York....is home to the nation's oldest cattle ranch, started in 1747 in Montauk
North Carolina....home of the first Krispy Kreme doughnut. Now you have to love this state. I love the donuts filled with custard.
North Dakota....Rigby, ND, is the exact geographic center of North America

Ohio....the hot dog was invented here in 1900. OH!!! As American as apple pie
Oklahoma....the grounds of the state capital are covered by operating oil wells.
Oregon....has the most ghost towns in the country

Pennsylvania....the smiley, :) was first used in 1980 by computer scientists at Carnegie Mellon University

Rhode Island....the nations oldest bar, the White Horse Tavern, opened here in 1673

South Carolina....Sumter county is home to the world's largest ginkgo farm
South Dakota....is the only state that's never had an earthquake

Tennessee....Nashville's Grand Ole Opry is the longest running live radio show in the world
Texas....Dr. Pepper was invented in Waco Back in 1885

Utah....the first Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant opened here in 1952

Vermont....Montpelier is the only state capital without a McDonald's. Ronald must not like maple syrup.
Virginia....Home of the worlds largest office building...the Pentagon.

Washington....Seattle has twice as many college graduates as any other state.
Washington DC....was the first planned capital in the world
West Virginia....had the world's first brick paved street, Summers Street, laid in Charleston in 1870 It would have been so cool if they had been yellow :) BTW I have seen this. Of course the neighborhood has went downhill and is now known as a place of ill repute.
Wisconsin....the ice cream sundae was invented here in 1881 to get around Blue Laws prohibiting ice cream from being served on Sundays. What kind of idiot would prohibit serving ice cream?
Wyoming....was the first state to allow women to vote.