Amid the hustle and bustle...

I have tried to stay busy the last couple of weeks. With Christmas so close I've had plenty of things to keep me going. I did two Christmas angels again this year. One at the tribal office, a little girl, age six, and a boy thru the SA tree at KMart, a boy, age nine. I had done so much shopping at the last minute that finances were tight after I did the two angels. But, with frugal watching we made it to payday. Thank God! Whew! Most years I do my shopping over several months or weeks and that keeps the cost from blowing us out of the water. This year that just didn't happen.

I baked three small loaves and two large loaves of pumpkin bread on Monday. I took the three down to the SPD for the officers on all three shifts. I sent a large one to work with hubby and sent one home with my sister for her family. She works full time at the hospital and I know she has so little free time for baking. It made her so happy. She said she wasn't sure if she was gonna share with the family or not. lol

At the moment I have two more large loaves in the oven, and mix ready for the three small ones. I will do a cherry cobbler later and take the two larges loaves and cobbler to the SA dinner for residents tomorrow. :) It makes me feel good to do this as they don't even have homes, so a home baked dessert may make the holidays a little brighter in their hearts. I hope. The three little loaves will be distributed according to hubby's family rank. lol

Over Thanksgiving, daughter and I baked some goodies and took them to SA for the dinner there. We agreed we will do this annually in memory of her (paternal) Grandma Pug. She was such a great cook and baker. Her greatest joy was doing Sunday dinner for her family. She was a great example of a dying breed. Who cooks Sunday dinners anymore? Well, now my daughter does. :) My daughter was such a loving granddaughter to her. She went every Sunday that she possibly could and in the last months of her grandmas life she would scrub the bathroom every Sunday. Or, pick up prescriptions and such. All the family drama that occurred when she died has really been heartbreaking for my girl.

I did the same kind of stuff the last years of my step-moms life. When they are gone, it sure leaves a big hole in your heart, and in your life when you get used to being there for someone. But, I know from my own experience that in time, my daughter will come to cherish her memories, and the memories will sustain her. Right now the grief is so hard for her. This will be the first Christmas without a big DO at grandmas.

So, I am not having dinner. Dinner will be at her house. I know she feels a little overwhelmed because she is stressed. Not only that she works a very demanding full time job. But, I will do a good portion of the cooking and that will ease her burden. I think it will do her good to be at home, and experience the thrills and frustrations of a big DO at home. It will help her to take her first steps in following...

gotta take bread out of oven... timer is going off...

OK, last three in the oven.

in following in her grandmas and my footsteps. She does dinners large and small all the time but has been very hesitant about turkey and dressing. It is time. :) I know part of the reason is that grandma made the best dressing in the free world. But, she watched her often enough I know she can do it. With practice she can perfect and carry on. I make very good dressing but not the same as her grandma. I found my own variation years ago. We all do.

Tomorrow I will make my pumpkin pies and one pecan pie for Christmas dinner at her house.

I have rambled and babbled here to pass the time. My eyes are a bit blurry, but I just try to stay occupied. Idle hands and all that. lol For me it is an idle brain that causes so much trouble.

The bright spot in my days is knowing my son will be here, he is driving in for a couple hours on Christmas day. Oh, how I have missed him running in and out of here. But, he is so happy in his new home and the life they are building in Texas. They will run from house to house to try and visit all the relatives on both sides. :)

I don't know if I will get to see BoBo, but, I just keep praying for his health and safety. When the battle between fear and faith hits, or my vivid imagination goes into overload, I pray or read my Bible. My God is Able!

So, as the battle between good and evil continues to rage in the lives of all my loved ones, I just keep praying and trying to walk in faith.

December drivel...

Been running in circles. Had a major drama unfold just before the Thanksgiving holiday that left me reeling. Still trying to make a comeback from this situation. Baby Mama came to my house to pick up BoBo and proceeded to give me a tongue lashing for what she said was "telling her how to discipline her child." It was so bad. I tried to deal with it by being quiet for a couple minutes and then told her not to talk to me. She kept on and I kept telling her not to talk to me, and I finally lost my patience and told her to "shut up". She kept mouthing off and it escalated and I told her repeatedly to get out of my house. Now, I have not seen BoBo since then. This is a very short version of the whole crazy incident. A couple months ago Mommy and Daddy got back together and I am no longer the much treasured babysitter. They are ready to play house again, and that means my dear sweet BoBo becomes the little soldier. It breaks my heart. I must continually turn it over to God in prayer and it has been a rough month.

I have been told by Daddy when I Apologize to her we can make peace. But, I cannot accept the disrespect and be treated this way. I know if I aploigize it will set a pattern and she will be rolling over me from now on. She was so hateful and rude until I made her leave. And even then she was ranting as she went down the driveway.

AS for the holidays, I went through the shopping and wrapping process. I am joyful about my Savior but am too torn to be merry about all the hoopla. We have not put up a tree. It seems silly when there are no small children around to enjoy it. It has been so hard for my daughter to as they have placed her right in the middle. Since her grandma died she has grieved so much. WE have been clinging to each other through this ordeal. It would have been wonderful to have others of faith to turn to for both of us. Most of our families, including our husbands are not faithful in going to church or in their spiritual walk. We both have come to realize that a womens ministy would be so important at a time like this. It has made us stop and realize what we are missing in such a support system. I dread to think what life would be like for her without me and what my life would be like without her. I hope we can find a way to move into the future through all the drama. Like I say, I pray.

I got up this morning at 1:00a.m. as I could not sleep. Worry took over so I prayed and then I got into a Bible study of Angels. I am amazed at all the scripture there is where God used Angelic messengers and forces to deal with his children. It is odd how you can read something over and over and miss something important.

Lately I have found things in scripture that I never noticed before. Perhaps it is growth in my walk, or that I am ready as never before. Time will tell... I will post some insights in a blog later to follow up on these moments of Bible study. It keeps me sane and helps with the strength of my faith to stay in the word.

What a time of heartbreak!~

My kids paternal grandma got sick and the last month has been a nightmare. She passed away last Saturday. Our friends David and Diann had a son named Dee and he died last week of a brain aneurysm. The funeral was Thursday. Last Sunday night my nephew (19 yrs old) committed suicide. The funeral was this week. His mom is so sickly and very near her own time as it is and this was almost the final straw for her. Neighbors down the road from the store lost their son too and his funeral was last Saturday. It seems like I cooked food day and night this last week for funerals or to send to the hospital waiting room. By Sunday this week I was on crash and burn.

Grandma Pug's funeral is this Thursday. I just keep praying my way thru it all.

The computer crashed yesterday. Been having problems with it. Took it to the Shawnee Computer Hospital late yesterday. The guys there are so awesome. The had it ready to go at 7:30a.m. this morning. There were grandma pictures on there that my daughter wanted for the funeral collage. I got the puter home and emailed the pics to her so she has them now. Whew. SCH techo guys told me I probably need to upgrade to a new computer tower. I will no longer do the Facebook/Twitter social networking. It is far to easy to get hit by a virus. This is the third crash we've had to deal with in the last 9 months.

I draw strength in all this heartbreak from the knowledge that There is a God. That there is a heaven and that Jesus saves. I am so thankful for that spiritual confidence and I am so blessed to know that my son and my daughter and my grandchildren are Christian's. They are not as active in church as they should be, but, Oh, "thank God", the are praying people and children. They could not have survived all this without him. The other members of Grandma's family are really struggling with this loss.

~Native Americans~

Native Americans

We once roamed the plains, mountains and hills
Deer, Buffalo, and Antelope, our food to kill
Rivers, creeks, ponds and lakes
water free for all to take
Brother Bear his fur kept us warm
Buckskin dressing on legs and arms
Our dwellings were made from such as this
Fires would warm us into sweet bliss
Wood carried loads down rutted trails
along with babies, and elders who ailed
It gave us spears, bows and arrows
Crafted to be light, slim and narrow
Trees provided more than fire
treated with care never sold for hire
Children were taught to cherish the old
keeping them warm and out of the cold
Elders who taught us Dignity well
lessons to keep us from being shells
Great Spirit was always worshipped and praised
for peace and contentment, no social craze
We credited him with honor and thanks
Land it was valued as home for all
So many trees majestic and tall
All Creation lived in the world we knew
Her Bounty was shared not by a few
Mother, Daughter, Father, Son
lived in harmony with nature as One,
Creatures then were free to run
Now we race from work to bank
Joining the frong of social rank
Lessons we learned from our New Brother
forgetting that we knew the Other.
It saddens this world and tears at the heart
what is it we are as we all live apart
Brother, sister, it’s time to make a new start

Shirley F. Haley
Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
September 2006

My God is Able!~

‎19. Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses. 20. He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions. (King James Version)

I am standing on his promises. Believing his word in all things. My husband, my children, my grandchildren and my great grandchild. The grand kids have had their share of drama and crisis lately. My second to oldest grandson was jumped from behind while sitting in his seat in class last week. Both boys ended up in ER. The attacker was suspended for only three days. He is now back in school. I pray for the guidance in the life of my boys. Youngest grandson was with me at the doctor for a much needed asthma/allergy shot when the incident happened. The same day my oldest grandson headed for the doctor as he was coughing blood. My granddaughter is having problems with annoying health issues too. BoBo has had an off and on rash lately. He has been moving with his mama and there has been drama. My babies, my babies. My God is Able!~

The Apostolic Life by David K. Bernard

The Apostolic Life by David K. Bernard was a fascinating and very informative book. I learned so much and this book answered so many questions. I came away with a clearer understanding of the differences in trinitarian and oneness beliefs for one thing. This was the kind of book that after each chapter I had to take time to think it over and process the reading material. Chapters in this book included information on Science and Scripture, Evangelism, Ministry, Outreach, roles of women in church and so forth. There were chapters here that did not apply to me personally, but the reading was still very interesting. The areas that I found to be useful for me on a personal level, left me with guidance for spiritual growth and enlightenment.

So many of the books I read in all honesty are just drivel. Some are very highly entertaining but, provide nothing more. Entertainment is great too. But, sometimes the mind, body and spirit need so much more than entertainment fodder for the brain.

I borrowed this book from my Pastor and I so wanted to keep it.

Several months ago during a sermon he preached on how we need to fuel our spirits with positive reading materials. I am making a conscious effort to add spiritual guidance materials to my piles.

Last week I went to the T-Town Library book sale, and came away with two bags. One is loaded with books by authors like Corrie Ten Boom and Joyce Meyers. The other bag with books to add the the winter stash for entertainment. This year is fast flying by and I have had so little time to read. I did read one other book recently and it took me over two weeks. I am an obsessive reader and a paperback never takes more than a day or two. But, this has been a hectic demanding year and this month more than all the others. I will try and take a day a week this fall to do some catch up reading. :

Another month almost over~

Whew!~ What a month.

Ephesians 6:13 (King James Version)

13. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Yep!~ It's been that kind of trials and testing for me. Whew!~

blowin ' the place...

Whew!~ Been runnin' in circles all day. Finally slowin' down. Sittin' at my daughters house using my granddaughters laptop. lol Took her internet for my blog time. lol

Fought with the flea problem for days now. Finally made contact with a very reputable exterminator and they are spraying my house, so, I am staying away for a few hours. I hope this solves the problem. We bought the very good once a month pills for our dogs, but, I don't know if this will eliminate the bugs. Our neighbor still has her pack of dogs and two cats. Time will tell. *sigh*

I have not had BoBo this week, so in my down time I got almost all of my huge pile of mending caught up. Just a few more pieces left to do. Yipeeeeee!~ I put new zippers in three pair of hunnys pants, mended and patched three pair of Putt-Putt boys blue jeans. I put new buttons on several things, and finished three new undertank type teddy tops. :) To anyone else all this may be humdrum, but, the pile has grown for sometime now, so, I feel I accomplished a big project. lol It's just life in the fast lane for granny. lol

My hunny has been working such long days. Going in at 5am and heading to the hayfield at 4pm to mow, rake, or bale hay. Getting home around 8:30 or 9:00pm. He is such a hard worker, and I so wish he could slow down. Hay season will be over for him soon though. I think we need to plan a week-end get-a-way in mid September. Take a fall drive and see the sights somewhere down the road. I need to add that to my list of things to do. :) :) He is an amazing man, and this is sometimes the only way to get him away for a break.

Daughter and her little extended herd are planning a road trip to Wichita Falls, Texas. This place they are going to, Castaway Cove has all of the kiddies pumped. lol I can only imagine what the trip will be like with all the kiddies and their grand kiddies. lol Been there, done that! While the memories and pics are great it sure can wear a person out. lol

I have not talked to my son or his boys all week. :{ Such is life sometimes, I guess. It makes me sad to know that my youngest grandson is mad at me. It may be that his being mad translates into his older brother being mad too. Oh well. Not much I can do but let things go for now as is. I don't know if since their Dad is in Texas if either of them told their Dad what happened between young one and me. I will not tell him. If they want to tell him, I will talk to him about the situation if and only if he brings it up first. *sigh* No one can say I am a tattletale. lol


My verse today that keeps cropping up has been:

Ephesians 6:13 (King James Version)

13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

I have rambled enough for now. I have a book with me and I am so ready to get back to reading it. :)

Finding...A Man of God. ~2~

When I was in and out of churches it doesn't take much to figure out that I was living in a worldly place. I was struggling to be a proper mother to my two children and still living a wild life in some ways. I was making sure my children knew about God as best I could. I taught them to say prayers, especially at bedtime just like my Mother did for me. My mother used to read me Bible stories so I knew all the basics. I thought I knew enough about God. Oh, how foolish we can be!~

While trying to maintain the home life for the sake of my children, I was drinking and prowling when they were away for the week-end or the night. At one point I was working three jobs just to make ends meet. I did not get child support and I did not qualify for any kind of assistance. I worked day care during the week, did babysitting as needed nights and week-ends, cleaned house for a couple of ladies, and waitressed three nights a week at a local club. And there, I found a way to self-medicate. Alcohol is one the devil's greatest and most subtle tools of trade. It anesthetizes. And heaven knows that considering the emotional state I was in, I need something to dull the emotional pain.

From a childhood of confused roots I was also sexually abused by my Dad. Born to an Indian girl during the early 50's, and abandoned by good ole Dad while she was pregnant, I was a prime candidate for "looney ala halfbreed" from the start. She was a very wild and misguided young girl who abused her firstborn, lost her second child to the father, and gave birth to me in the middle of it all. In all fairness to Dad, she was too wild to be settled with him or anyone else. In just a few years she was forced by courts to turn me over to the custody of Dad. He had married in the meantime to a very good citified christian lady. I am sure she took one look at me and knew I was in need of proper civilization efforts. lol

I was used to using an outhouse, drinking water from a hand drawn well, and eating my veggies while sitting in the dirt of the garden. I spent a lot of time with my Indian grandpa at the time, and one of my earlies favorite memories is sitting there, eating cucumbers while he hoed his garden. I loved being at his house as did all the other children in the family. When our mother married an older man and became pregnant, we lived in our own little shotgun shack some miles away from dear Grandpa. Some of my earliest memories include watching my young drunken mother abuse my sister Jeannie. She wound hit, throw shoes, and we would hide behind the wood burning stove. I remember going to school with Jeannie and walking home from school cold and hungry. This is the mid 1950's please remember.

Grandpa was an Indian preacher so he was gone sometimes for days on end. He traveled to meetings all over the country. He would bring home a treat called sweetmeat and it was so delicious. I remember my older cousins hunting squirrel for food to eat in winter. I remember the smell of wood fire smoke as it haunts my memories of a wonderful Grandpa who simply could not care for all of us children on a long term basis. But I remember him with a loving heart. To this day one of my favorite foods in just a plain old biscuit. :) This dear sweet Man of God never learned to read, never went to church, but he knew to worship his Creator. He did it the Indian way.

When my Dad got custody I had to learn all things related to a White world. I do not mean to say that hatefully. The two worlds were as different as night and day. When Mom first tried to feed me spaghetti I thought she was trying to feed me bloody worms. My first restaurant experience she offered me a burger and french fries. I did not want any of that food. When the fries arrived I was so upset because I wanted some fried potatoes too. Five years old is too young to get specific with questioning in some areas. lol

My Dad's dad, Grandpa S., was very religious, as was my stepmother. While they were a religious family the demands on my simple culture shocked mind were just too much. Over time I did adapt to electric lights, running water, proper english, the food, and overall lifestyle changes, other things took more time. Emotionally I was still a little Indian girl missing her family so much.

The only Man of God in my life was this Grandpa S. and he was a southern transplant who really resented his oldest sons, bad seed, half-breed, born out of wedlock child. Were it not for my stepmother and her Christian grace, my faith would never have rooted in early childhood. I did grow up to be so confused by it all. She got sick around three years later and started spending lots of time in the hospital and my Dad took full advantage of the opportunity to start doing a lifetime of damage.

to be continued...

Finding...A Man of God!~

I've been thinking a lot lately about the Man of God. Not just the Pastor at my church, but, the Biblical Man of God. Men like Moses, Elijah, Elisha, Joshua, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Hosea, Ezra, and so many others. Men who took up their faith and walked in his light regardless of worldly influences.

Over the years I have visited so many churches of various doctrines. It took me almost a lifetime to find a Man of God in this day and age, who is committed to bringing truth, and guidance, that brings the joy and peace the Bible teaches. I have read my Bible over and over through the years. So many times I was tripped up by things that no one had answers for, or explanations that seared as truth in my soul.

Baptism is one example. I was baptized twice in years past. Once as a young teen in a Baptist church. The feeling of well being and the sense of spiritual purpose did in fact enter my soul. But, there was always something in me that seemed to be missing. I was filled with a sense of love for my God, and I understood that Jesus died for me. But, something was missing in me. I thought for years it was because I was just too unworthy.

The second time I was in my late twenties and the church was a very good church with an awesome pastor. This denomination used only the New Testament. I was at peace during the music services and the preaching did in fact make me want to try harder to be a better person, but there was still something missing in me. And, I knew it. I continued to believe that I was just too unworthy, and had lived a life too evil to be fully accepted by God, or to be forgiven. But, the Pastor was a very Godly man, and later I realized that he had tried so hard to reach his congregation with what he had to offer. He did an awesome job of teaching the New Testament. But, I knew that we are to use the teachings of the Old Testament to support the New.

Baptism this the last time was a life changing experience and and I was tingling and actually felt the Holy Ghost and rebirth as I left the water.

I would be in churches and out of churches. One church, sadly to say, I took my kids and visited three times and no one ever spoke to me. I went to the dinner after service the third time thinking I could get to know someone there. No one spoke to me. It was SO weird. I never took my kids and went back. Even my children said they felt it was unfriendly and they were still in elementary school.

Now, I know I was seeking, but, was lost as to what I was trying to find. That confusion, that outer darkness I was stumbling around in, perpetuated the feelings of loss and emptiness.

I am happy to say that I went to work at a Religious college. One of the Father's there befriended me. He was very instrumental in showing me the Love of God. A story in itself. I will tell of him another time. Suffice to say that this was the beginning of healing for me. Father Joe, what a good Man of God. The problem was that He wasn't teaching me the Bible, he was teaching me years of church doctrine developed over time and it was not easily found and applied in the Bible. AT least not for me. I did receive a touch during that time and it made my feelings of spiritual need more intense. I continued to seek.

To be continued...

Another week-end over...

Ok, it is Monday morning and I have been up once again since 4;15a.m. Hunny rolled outta here at 4:30am ad I got putt putt boy up at 4:45am. I am so thankful they both have good jobs but the schedules are changing daily. It sure keeps me running. lol

We are still fighting the flea problem. I have spent a small fortune the last few weeks trying to control this problem. WE bought pills at the vet hospital for both our dogs. (NOT CHEAP.) The pills are working great as the fleas that do get on them are dying. But, the young lady next door has four or five dogs and two cats and that seems to be what is causing the problem. We have sprinkled our yard three times, sprayed at least five times. We bombed on Saturday and he sprayed again later yesterday and still have fleas entering the small bath on the South side of the house which is near her garage. ARGH!!~ Maybe I should buy pills for everyone that enters our house. We live in a very nice neighborhood and this girl is a teacher. So, I just don't understand how she can live with the problem. Gripe, gripe, grumble, grumble.

I heard a very much needed sermon yesterday. I am so thankful for my Pastor. It is so sad to think of all the people who go to churches seeking guidance and never find a pastor who is a true Man of God. I was blessed with the greatest inflow of God's presence and felt so at peace when the feelings flowed through me. I am so thankful that Jesus did not leave us comfortless. I sometimes wish I could just stay right there in that place forever. But, I know that someday I will be there forever and it keeps me going. Such blessed feelings of peace and joy when his spirit fills me.

BoBO was not so good during service yesterday. He is wanting to play and travel and he even crawled under the church pew. I swatted him to get him to crawl back out from under and that was embarrassing. I guess for the next few weeks I will spend time with him in the baby class so he can get used to being there. He is now two and a half and it is time for him to be in with children his age. It just took some time for him to adapt to being out in a large group. I didn't want to just start leaving him as he is a very shy timid baby due to the lack of interaction in his past. But, after yesterday (lol) I feel he is comfortable enough at the church building and with the people there, that he is ready for the transition to Sunday School. I know that NaaiNaai got mad at me for trying to discipline him, as she is such a softy. She doesn't get to spend much time with him because she works a very demanding job. I on the other hand spend a lot of time with him and I have to use discipline to try and control the boy in him. And, he was disturbing the man at the end of our pew, and I know how that feels.

I sure stay tired most of the time now. Either too many irons in the fire or not enough time to keep up with everything I am called on to do. I will try to rest more. It helps when the first of the month rolls around and I get my B12 shot.

Sunday morning...

BoBo and I are meeting NaaNaai at church this morning. It really troubles me that he is not so good at sitting still during services. But, most of the time he is quiet so I guess we have to work on being still as time goes by. He is watching The Ant Bully at the moment and I am just out of the shower. He slept so good last night. Asleep at 11:00p.m., (kinda late) and he slept until 8:15a.m., so we are ready to go and enjoy a great sermon. I need to feel the presence of my God.

I can sometimes pray and read my Bible here at home and pray thru to that all encompassing presence and feel so good for it. This week has been so demanding that my Bible study time has been hampered. We got up most days at 4:15 a.m. as hunny had to be at work. Putt-Putt Boy had to be up and rollling most days by 5:15 a.m. so the in and out of it all made it difficult for me to be emotionally involved in my study. I was also soooooooo tired it was hard to focus. Maybe it will be better next week. But, Monday will be another 4:15a.m. morning so I don't know how things will flow.

My Boy Boy sent me a text picture over the week-end and he shaved his moustache. He also sent me pics of yard flowers that looked almost exotic. wow!~ His yard appears to be so beautiful. I miss him.

I had an bad situation earlier this week with my youngest grandson that I have been praying about. I haven't talked to him since then, as he is now mad at me. But, sometimes you have to set your foot down and everyone lives with the consequences. I know someday he will really regret what happened. But, for now, I feel a loss in my heart for my young "Israel". I will just keep praying about the situation and for his young heart.

July 2010 almost over...

Where does the time go? What a month. Spent this month chasing my tail. Kids and grand kids and home fires. Whew!~Let's see... Dogs had fleas. Been dealing with that. Baby got stung three times yesterday by red wasps. Made me crazy and it was none too pleasant for him. But, I called his NaaiNaai, my daughter at work, and she told me to use baking soda paste on the burns and that works great. The swelling went down fast and he did not suffer with the stings for long because of that suggestion. It works.

There was a wasp nest underneath her grill and he walked under the sidebar and got stung on the head and twice on his little hand. I was in a panic it scared the hoooohaaaa outta me. She has such a beautiful back yard and it was so cool early in the morning. I thought it would be nice to sit on the patio and enjoy the morning breeze. BoBo was just walking off the patio and stumbled right under the nest.

Hay season has started and hunny is working full time on the job and doing hay in his spare time. So that translates into 15 hr days for him. I so worry but he is committed to keeping the hay rolling. I winter it makes a difference for the cows staying well fed. What an amazing man. He can fix any tractor, mower, baler, rake, dozer, trucks, cars, and any number of smaller implements and tools. Very talented that man.

This week just rolled into one long hard effort. We were up at 4:15 am four days as he had to be at work at 5:00a.m. I am still tired. Got up today raced around for five hours and later on took a thirty minute nap.

BoBo is in the process of potty training and it is going so good. I guess I should stop calling him my baby. LOL He is my first great grandchild and will always be my baby. I so enjoy his company although it is harder and harder for me to keep up with him. He is lightening. Like McQueen!~ whew~ lol

I went to Camp Meeting Sunday night and the sermon was great. I was a little disappointed with the start of the meeting. It was the 50th anniverary of the camp meeting so they had programming to commemorate the big day. I was just so pumped I was not wanting to celebrate that, I was wanting the worship to start. the sermon and worship after the celebration was very good. I had hoped to go back later in the week but, life just flows with family stuff and here it is Friday. Oh well!~ Such is life. But I made one night and that is a blessing. The meeting was over an hr drive away from home, so, it is not easy for me to make that kind of drive alone. Especially the drive home late at night.

Garden veggies. YUM~ Brother-in-law Bill has been sending fresh tomatoes, corn, peppers, and last but not least a bit of okra. :0 oh happy happy me. I am a veggie junkie. I could live without meat but not my vegetables.

I'm a babblin' fool...

I Tried to go to the followers listed and send a message to a friend thru my blog here. As it asked if I wanted to send a message I had to sign up so I did. Then I found that I am now a follower of my own blog. Once again I am a victim of my own idiocy. The only difference between myself and many others is, I am always more than willing to admit to it and laugh at myself. LOL Hope someone gets a laugh or two from my foolishness. It gets better. I tried to unsign and it would not let me :P So, here I sit totally befuddled. lol

As to my day, I finally got some mending done and a bit of new sewing finished. I have BoBo so much I hate to drag out the sewing notions for fear I will leave something he could get in his little hands. He is a prowler in the worst way and I have to watch him like a hawk. So, I have so many projects on hold or on my to do list. Whew!

BoBo was out of town this week with Mama and I will see him as usual on Saturday evening for the night and following day. I missed him like crazy but made the most of my time. I wanted so much to get all my mending done but other things came up this week.

I also wanted to finish a book I started. Yes, I have started The Apostolic Life, and it is very interesting. I am finding answers to so many spiritual questions. But, I will do a book post on it when I finish. I have not had time in weeks and weeks for reading and am starting to feel so deprived. There has been so much going on with family and whatnot that I've had to leave the books on the shelf. *sigh* For this bookworm it has been a long dry spell. I still make time for my Bible most days in the early hours but, other books are stacked and sacked here and there. If you know me you know how piled my books can get. I have a box by the front door ready for winter. Rarely in my life have I had a winter book stash as early as July. LOl I usually create piles and stash sources after the Library book sale in October.

I took my oldest grandson for two long and tiring days with medical appointments this month. I hauled my granddaughter to the dentist and will go again in the morning. I have chased Bobo to and fro a good number of days. He is learning to potty. :) Yipeee!~

I fell on the porch last Wednesday and really banged myself up. Good Grief!~ BoBo and his mama were here thank the Lord. We were cleaning the driveway and everything was wet. I stepped up onto the porch and my foot slipped and I did a free fall. The blessing is that I did not break anything. And, I was so blessed that I did not form a hematoma in the bruise on my hip. Since I take blood thinners this can be and has been a serious problem for me in the past on one occasion. it took a few days for all the aches and pains to subside but I am doing great. Praise the Lord!~

I so miss my son now that he is living in Texas. But, we adapt even in old age. lol He got hurt on the job a couple of weeks ago and his leg is all banged up. The residual damage is that he will or could have a calcium deposit the size of a small apple on his leg below the knee for a long long time. But, the damage could have been far worse so I praise God for that in itself. His youngest son has been spending time with us of late and that has been so sweet. I know he misses his dad. He and big brother went and spent a week with him, but that still leaves a lot of time without dad here at home. He does enjoy being here and going out for prowling the farm with Papa or the oldest grandson. Priss and I will go pick him up at his Moms after the dentist appointment. Then Priss and Jake can argue over computer time and turns and whatnot today. LOL

A real bright spot in my world has been that my sister seems to be back in church. I am so thankful. We plan to go to camp meeting this next Sunday nite. I am so excited as I have heard of camp meetings all my life but this will be my first. I expect a mighty and powerful spiritual experience with my God when I go. So, I am pumped. :)I am certain the worship will be powerful and the teaching will be mighty. Oh, how I love to worship. I have a lot of years to make up for from my days lost in the darkness.

My daughter has a very dear friend,who, well, actually she is a dear friend to my son as well...duh~ Barbara is very dear to me as well. Barbara and her girls are like extended family to all of us. Her daughter Crissy was in a horrific car wreck this week, and prayers are ongoing for Crissy and her friends. One girl died in the wreck and the two boys are still on ventilators. Crissy has been transferred to a Bone and Joint hospital. I have prayed and prayed for all the kids and their families. I hope and pray I can post praise reports to my Book of Remembrances here soon. Until then I will continue to pray. When you read this say a prayer for these children and their families please.

My sister Juanita has another infection in a wound. She had same day surgery last week and goes back to the doctor tomorrow. Another prayer situation that I believe will be positive. It will be okay for I serve a God who is Able.


Deuteronomy 4:39 (King James Version)

39 Know therefore this day, and consider it in thine heart, that the LORD he is God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: there is none else.


Amen!~

I changed the comments settings!~

I got an email from a friend who said it was impossible to comment on my blog. So, I changed the settings. thanks!~ Plz try again.

Dumpster Divin'???

LOL In the Spring and Fall each year our city has a citywide bulk waste curbside clean-up for residents. LOl This means that if you don't want to have a garage sale you can pile all your junk at the curb and the city will haul it off. I know. I usually pile a ton of stuff at the curb and by the time the trucks come most of it has been carried off by those who have a use for all my miscellaneous junk. LOL It is a great giveaway kind of thing. LOL

I know. Hubby and I drive around town and look at all the piles and sometimes carry stuff home. LOL Actually we sometimes carry a lot of stuff home. Last Spring I rescued an Ivy plant from the curb, along with a couple of beautiful potted ornamental shrubs. The Ivy was root bound so I re potted it and now it sits on the front porch and has exploded into all its majesty. I will need to find a home for it before winter as it is so huge now I have no room for it inside the house. LOL The ornamentals are planted in the backyard.

I also found BoBo a tiny little Red Rider bicycle and a Jenny Lind rocking chair just his size. Both were in mint condition. I wiped them down and he was thrilled.

I was driving along last spring and there was a very nice recliner sitting at the curb. I tried to get it into the back of the Suburban and got it stuck. LOL I called my son. He was so embarrassed to come and help me. LOL :P But, the recliner was of great thrills to a young couple we met who needed it for their new place. They had nothing and were overjoyed to get it along with a fan and a few other things we had at the curb here at home.

Now, this mobile high-pile dumpster divin' hubby and I are into is a source of great embarrassment to our children and grandchildren. LOL Hey!~ We're hicks!~ What can I say. And, anyone who knows me at all knows that I am a full blown dyed in the wool bargain hunter. If it ain't on sale, I ain't buyin'. Sooooo, free...FREE!~ How could I resist that I ask you???

btw, ain't is "hick speak" for I am not, or, is not, etc. etc.

There have been bulk waste days where my sister and I have driven' around town for a couple of hours just lookin'. It is amazing what people will throw away. I know that from my great bulk waste escapades. LOL

Ok, so fast forward to this week. My hubby went to pick up our granddaughter of 15 the other night. She was talking to her mom about the winter formal. She was saving her hard earned nickels and dimes to buy hair accessories for the upcoming winter formal and wanted a pact with mom. She would save and mom would supply a matching amount. She told mom she did not care about the dress so much, but, would be happy to shop for a special dress for the prom instead. LOL As they were leaving to come back to our house my daughter heard my hubby tell her he thought it was time for him to take her to look for a winter formal, and he would take her dumster divin'.

I still laff so hard when I think of what must have been the horrified look on her face. what a hoot!~

I am posting this one for the kids and grand kids alike.

Babysittin Dixie...LOL

Sis is going out of town for the weekend and Ric is still at church camp. Dixie, Ric's little teacup yorkie is here again for a couple days. I am rotating the dogs. Got Noodle in the bedroom, and our big dog, Lady Bug is out back and in and out of the garage for a few hours. Lady is big and scares Dixie, Noodle is old and cranky with her.

I had BoBo all day yesterday so I didn't get a thing done. I am doing laundry and listening to the news to catch up on current events. There were six or seven earthquakes in Indonesia this week. I hear about all the signs we are being hammered with and I am reminded we really are living in the last days.

I am heartsick like so many others over this epic oil crisis in the gulf. My heart goes out to the people, the wildlife and the aquatic creatures. I know that we were given dominion over the earth and all the creatures. It is enraging that mankind can create this kind of devastation on this our good earth. It is truly amazing what God allows. And, people wonder if he exists or if he loves them. Mind boggling!~

I have a very special book to read in the coming days. It is titled "The Apostolic Life" by David K. Brennan. Pastor loaned it to another member and I saw it laying in the pew when he was to return it. I was blessed that Pastor stopped just then and I got permission to read it too. :) Good spiritual guidance books aside from the Bible are hard for me to find.

Spiritual Awakening

For the last five years I have been back in church. For the first two of those years I attended a non-denominational contemporary church because my son and my daughter were taking my grandchildren there. It was a very nice church and the pastoring was very inspiring and as close to Biblical as I thought it could be. I was raised Baptist and while this was not a Baptist church the teachings seemed relevant and very good.

I tried time and again to get my sister to go to church with me. She did attend one of the women's ministry meetings with me. But, that was the extent of her desire to participate. Then three years ago, around the Fourth of July, I came home one Saturday afternoon and found a church flyer on the porch. I could see young people up and down the streets leaving them on doors. It was so hot and I was so impressed with that group of teenagers. They could have been doing any number of things on that hot Saturday afternoon. Yet, they chose to do a faith based outreach. It was touching.

Later in the evening my sister called and was telling me about the kids passing through her neighborhood that day. She was curious about this church and asked me to go with her and see what it was like. I was thrilled and was more than ready if it meant she would get back in church. So, we made our plans and attended Sunday morning service. I would probably have attended almost any church to get my sister off her duff. Things were really bad for her and I knew how much it would help to find a place to fill her heart with his peace. I had found something that was helping me.

I was however, a little apprehensive about this plan. It was a Pentecostal church and I was raised to believe certain things about those pentecostal people. I figured I would go a few times until she was more comfortable and then return to my little church. She attended a Pentecostal church years ago and said it was the only denomination she would really feel at peace with if she attended a church.

Growing up Baptist I was firmly ensconced in the idea that the pentecostal people claimed to have the Holy Ghost and they claimed to speak in tongues. Now that,according to the teachings I'd been bombarded with was against all our beliefs. I was taught that tongues were for the early Christians only. I wondered all my life why Jesus would give it to them and not give it to the rest of his followers.

Never mind the fact that in the course of my adult life I had visited Church of Christ, Methodist, Freewill Baptist, Episcopal, and even took catechism in the Catholic church for a time. I was a seeker. Some will say that kind of person just hops from church to church. But, there always seemed to be something critical missing. I would find a sense of peace and the worship was sometimes beautiful. I got some great Biblical teachings. I knew I had been touched and felt his touch many times, but I could never get past the feelings of unworthiness. I never felt the feeling of forgiveness. The guilt and shame always lay just below the surface. Something was always lacking in me or in the church and I knew it.

Salvation in a Baptist church at the age of 13 was beautiful. But, over the years I knew something was missing in me. I would feel the touch, the move of his spirit and then in no time I was floundering spiritually once more. That was how I lived over the years as I tried one denomination after another.

I was in that church that first Sunday and I knew within just a few minutes they had something special. The praise and worship during the music was filling my heart with longing and need. I was reaching out to him and the people in that church were doing it too, right out loud! I could hear people praying and I too had my hands raised praying silently.

I know that He hears our prayers when we pray silently, but, there was something so powerful in the outright prayers of these people. It carried me home and back again, time after time. I was seeking with all my heart. When the Pastor approached me and talked about the Holy Ghost I was a bit confused because of former teachings. But, I kept listening and learning. I was still reading my Bible daily, but, this time, I was finding that my understanding was growing by leaps and bounds. I started to understand Acts chapter 2.

With the help of Pastor Bowman, Brother Roberts and the women who surrounded me in prayer, I finally prayed, (out loud) and prayed through and got the Holy Ghost. It is the most incredible, amazing, peace filling, happy, extremely joyous feeling I have ever known. I was so filled with the Holy Ghost and started speaking in tongues. My entire body felt warm and at peace, relaxed and joyful. I even had revelations during my second experience. But, that is a story for another time. But, I knew Jesus so intimately in that one instance and I knew he was living in me. I was down in front of the altar. I looked up and around and my Sister was several feet to my left and she had renewed her gift of the Holy Ghost at the exact same time. She was standing there reaching to the heavens and praying in tongues. It was amazing!~

All my life I had tried to be good to people, do good works, pray and seek, all to find that something was still lacking in me. I was a sinner and the shame and guilt was there like a great shadow making me feel unworthy. Now I know without question that he died for me, for you, for all who will seek his face. I have found his grace in full, and it is the thing I cherish above all else. This experience was my greatest blessing in life.

I decided to get baptised. Again. Ihad been baptised in two other churches. BUT!~ But, this time, when Pastor said the words, " In Jesus Name", I felt the washing away of my sins. I came up out of the baptistry with my entire body tingling and I knew as I stood there I was a new creature and that I was washed and made whole. Made whole!~ Whole for the first time in my life. Joy filled my soul again, and I was walking on the moon. God is good and I try and encourage my loved ones to seek his face.

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6

If you are reading this I will say again; I started this blog so that if I pass on, my children and grandchildren will have something to turn to in my absence. It is my greatest desire that they seek his face by going to church and reading the Bible. But, my mother wished the same for me. I went to church after church, fell and stumbled and lost my way so many times. I know how hard it is to find your way in the midst of the darkness and confusion this life creates. The battle rages for every soul and every life.

Most churches don't preach the Holy Ghost experience and talking in tongues is considered taboo in most of todays churches. But, I would rather lay down and die than deny what I have been blessed with. I have been touched and filled by my Jesus and life is worth living. "Because He lives I can face tomorrow." Words from an old song. Words I now live by.

Empty Nest Syndrome

I am 57 years old. I thought for months I was 56 and lo, and behold, I just found out I am 57 and will be 58 on my birthday. It is amazing how the old mind works. Or, should I say how it doesn't work. LOL

My daughter came for lunch today and we commiserated about the Empty Nest Syndrome. Her youngest, 15 year old (Miss Priss), has a busy summer schedule this year. Lately it has been drivers education. Next comes the trips to Church camp, followed by Cheer camp, and another church camp and so forth and so on. Mom said this will be her last summer to constantly haul to and fro from one activity to another. Miss Priss even has a part time summer job this year helping her dad work the concessions at the school ball field. Daddy and his wife open up and Miss Priss goes up later and works the counter during games, for evenings and week-end tournaments. Busy girl!~ Mom knows that next year Miss Priss will be doing her own driving.

This leaves her hubby to go to his fishing tournaments and fish days (that last all day) without her this year. She wants to closely track the travels of our girl during her summer, as it should be. So, she has had to make choices about some of the week-end and evening activities that she and hubby are accustomed to participating in. She has been to a number of ball games and tournaments when His grandchildren were scheduled to play. He should try and be more understanding about her desire to be a good Mother.

For my part in all this, my 39 year old son has moved to East Texas about 20 miles from the Louisiana state line. For all their lives my son and daughter have been within hollering distance almost. He could stay for dinner, drop by anytime and he did. I got used to him popping in and out during the day, sometimes for lunch, for a drink, use the directory, or computer, or just hangout. It has been hard the last week or so for me to know he isn't doing that anymore.

His boys are still here with their mom for the summer activities. I will see them. My oldest grandson, 21, stays a night or two a week over here. I still have BoBo at least two nights a week. Were it not for the time I have with him, I think the grief over my son moving would be very difficult for me. But, I know the work situation there as a result of this economy is much better than here in Shawnee. He has already found a beautiful house and is making arrangements for it. He sent pictures and we text back and forth. I try not to bug him. So, I only text the morning scripture and wait for his contact. I Don't wanna be a tiresome mom. Momma misses him so much though.

Not just a month ago, he had some free time so he mowed and was going to do the weed eating in the backyard. While he was out in back he started raking leaves under the Magnolia tree and picked up a small copperhead snake. That has been a real worrier for me since then. LOL I've been convinced since that the retainer wall is housing a nest. But, I digress. My point is, he was in and out and now he is in Texas. Oh! woe is Momma! LOL

WE have always been such a close knit bunch it is very hard on his sister too. I am just so thankful that for so many years my kids were right here. WE had impromptu lunches and dinners, visits and get-togethers. I am blessed.

I just pray that all goes well in Texas. And, I pray all goes well with drivers ed and Miss Priss traveling on the road. LOL

Trials and a time of testing.

My son and my daughter are both going through a time of trials and testing right now. It is so difficult to walk through this world and still hold to faith. I keep trying to remind them that My God Is Able. I wish I could help them understand using the Book of Job to guide them that the battle between good and evil rages in their lives and in the lives of their loved ones too.

The battle is fierce and the Devil really does prowl the world seeking to destroy and he is vicious.

I Peter 5:8. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.

Yes... he will devour the mind or the body or even worse the spirit.

The two scriptures I offered for their guidance are:

Psalm 37:4,5
4. Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
5. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.

It has been my experience the last few years that when a crisis hits, if I can just turn my mind from negativity and pray with the knowledge that nothing is impossible with God, prayers are answered. Some examples in my Book of Remembrances are when loved ones have been healed. He is so mighty, so merciful, and so compassionate. I reach out to him because I am only human and without his touch in my life, things get so crazy or complicated, or confusing. The mental and physical healing I have received has strenghtened my faith. The mercy I found has made me whole mentally and in so many other ways. I am a woman who has been loosed. I have found my "fix". I don't need to shop til I drop, or go out and party. I don't need to roll with friends, or battle the gossip wars to survive. I don't need a drink, I don't need what the world has to offer. When financial woes hit I am ready and have found how to offer it to him. My comfort comes from the knowledge that God is going to win the battle between the good and evil. My comfort comes when I stop and hold my heart and mind up to him.

So, as the battles rage in the lives of my loved ones, I will seek his mercy and carry the thought that I can now come boldly into his presence by the blood of Jesus. Boldly!~ I will carry the pain or heartbreak, or confusion, or complications to his presence. I do this daily. I will reach out to my provider, my healer, my rock, my strength, my fortress, my stronghold.

He provides emotional and spiritual guidance, as well as guiding me financially. My healer can heal the heart, mind, body and spirit. My rock can hold me steady emotionally. My Strength can carry me through those moments when the battle weakens me. My fortress is where I can hide emotionally and gain stability. My stronghold is there to protect me and to give me rest. He is all!~ He is Jehovah Shalom, my God of Peace. He is Jehovah Shammah, my God who is Present. He is Emmanuel and he dwells in me. IN ME!~

Book of Remembrances! My Heart!~

Wow!~ Ten years ago on June 1, 2000, I had open heart surgery. When people hear the words open heart surgery they immediately assume I had bypass surgery as it is quite common. But, my surgery involved replacing the aortic valve. For many years now the practice of replacing a valve with a pig valve has been successful, but the pig valve would sometimes fail after ten years or so.

God bless Dr. Paul Kanaly of Oklahoma City. He decided to replace my valve with a metal valve. Yes... I said metal. It is coated with something similar to teflon. LOL No joke. The beating of my heart and the flow of blood keeps the valve moving in motion with the rest of my heart. Personally, I think it is a God deal in more ways than one. The story of how I came to get an implanted heart prosthetic is now mind boggling to me. Since I lived it day by day the reality of how close I came to meeting my maker at the time is very real to me.

Most of my life I was pretty healthy, and rarely went to the doctor. But, as a child my parents were told I had a heart murmur, and that I had to be careful with athletics and such. Being a kid I thought it was all nonsense coming from the doctors. Well, about the time I hit the age of 45 I was having numerous health problems and then the heart trouble started. *sigh*

I went to the doctor repeatedly telling him about the chest pains. The doctor here at home finally told me there was nothing wrong with my heart. In fact, he said I needed counseling. He, Dr. McB. had labeled me as a hypochondriac for all the complaining. I had even made trips to the ER on a few occasions with chest pain and they too treated me as a joke. It was frustrating.

There is nothing so scary as having chest pains day or night and not knowing what to do about it. Thank God my husband took me seriously during the first part of this ordeal or I would have lost my mind. He would haul me to ER and or the doctor and they would listen and even do EKG's. Nothing showed up or sounded abnormal. So I was patted on the head and sent home. The final straw came one night when the chest pain was so intense I could barely breathe when I woke up. Later at the ER they called Doctor McB., and he told them to give me some kind of cocktail and send me home. Apparently the cocktail was a mix of drugs commonly given to pregnant women to subdue them??? I refused the drugs and left.

Not long after that it hit again, in the middle of the night. My Husband and I decided it was useless to go to that ER. So, he took me halfway across the state (or so it seemed) to the ER at Carl Albert Indian Hospital in Ada. By the grace of God the doctor on call took me seriously. He said it could be my heart or my gall bladder or both. He put me on an aspirin regimen and told me to call his office and make an appointment. (This Doctor it turned out had a two year waiting list.) When I told the receptionist that he told me to call she made the appointment immediately. During the months that followed he and his staff treated me with dignity and professionalism. On more than one occasion he did an EKG and nothing showed. May God bless my Dr. Mason!~ My God is Able!~

One day he decided to try a test call an Echo Cardiogram or ECG. I learned from those tests that my aortic valve was severely closing. Because I do not live in the district they could only see me in the doctors office and I could not be referred out. So... back I came to the idiot doctor McB.to tell him because I needed his referral!! When I met with him he started the same old routine telling me there was nothing wrong with my heart. I had to set my foot down and tell him I was going to sign a release and have the test results faxed to him. He was so condescending and treated me like an idiot child. I went to the records and signed a release for the fax and left there feeling hopeless.

The very next morning I get a call from Dr. McB., who sounded almost in a panic. He said my tests showed severe damage and dysfunction in my aortic valve. NO KIDDING???

So, after months and months of this ordeal, He was finally ready to give me a referral and I went to see Dr. Kanaly the heart surgeon. Praise the Lord!~ Dr. Kanaly had the aura of a calm, peaceful, competent professional. He immediately showed me the "teflon coated" implant and said my valve was over 50% shut down. He also said I had a window of surgical success of three months. So, I knew it had to be done right away.

By this time I could barely walk down the hall without a rest. I would walk to the bedroom, stop and rest. Walk to the front room, stop and rest. My heart was pumping blood into the chambers and it was not pumping out fast enough so my heart was on overfill. It was very painful too.

In the few weeks leading up to my surgery, knowing the risks, I made my husband and my 11 year old grandson learn to do the laundry. :P Among other things.

The surgery was a success, obviously. I am so blessed to be here. Above all else I do believe that I was given a second chance to grow in my relationship with my God. The last five years have been a time of renewal for me. I am back in church, I have found what I sought for so many years. Amazingly, I found spiritual strength and so much more in my little United Pentecostal Church. Having grown up Baptist it is amazing the road I have traveled to get here.

During the days leading up to the surgery I felt so unworthy of God's grace that my prayer was not about me but about my grandchildren. I wanted to see them get just a little bigger. I have lived to see my first great grandson. I even take him to church with me. Praise the Lord!~

I have the Holy Ghost from my Jesus, to sustain me, comfort me, guide me, and love me. Oh!~ How I wish I could find a way to share this with others so they could understand what it is like to come through the darkness and into His beautiful light. Yes!~ My heart beats strong in more ways than one. My God is Able!~

Three Dogs and a Baby!

My day started around 4:30 a.m. Grandson is going back to Northern Oklahoma to work and will be gone overnight. I forgot to turn the alarm down and it woke BoBo up. :{ After daddy left he was ready to roll. I was ready to drop. Got hunny off to work at 6:00a.m. and tried to get him back to sleep. yea right!~ Like that's gonna happen. So we waited around and to take Ric to school at 8:00a.m.

Yep!~ Today is a three dog and baby day. Usually it is my two old dogs and baby. They sleep a lot so it is usually very quiet except for BoBo. LOL Everyone is without power from the storms. My son s helping clean trees and debris from a friends house. Daughter is sleeping at various places and her little dog, Dixie a Teacup Yorkie is here for a day of babysitting. She dropped Dixie off when I took Ric to school.

This is not a bad thing, but... Early in the day around 8:30 a.m. I put the our old black lab mix Ladybug in one bedroom and shut the door. I put Schnoodle our Schnoodle in the other back bedroom. Schnoodle is a silver, 12 year old, baby dog, that usually rules the roost. Today not so. LOL

I went to the bedroom and forgot to shut the door. A little later I guess he came in and got on his pillow under the table by my rocker. :{ I didn't know it until I heard him growling at little Dixie as she was attempting to get friendly and invade his space. She came running from behind my chair and I immediately led the Dog Boss down the hall and he went under the bed in the sewing room. Whew~ I shut the door. :P

Then BoBo decided to get excited about the little dog. He was pushing his black monster truck to and from the living room and kitchen, and screaming with glee. Little Dixie was running back and forth with him. It was total mayhem just from listening. I had to be very cautious not to trip in the melee'.

Around 9:30a.m. I decided it was time for both of them to have a snack. After snacks things started to settle down and BoBo let me know in his sweet little way it was time for a nap. I put him down and then settled Dixie into her carrier and she too napped.

I let LadyBug out and opened Schnoodle's door but he did not come out. He either had his feelings hurt or was napping. Lady went to the yard to prowl for a bit. I had peace at last.

I guess because he was up so early BoBo slept for four hours. Then the fun started. I got him changed and gave him juice. He wanted Dixie out of her carrier. WE loaded up and headed out to pic Ric up from school and it was getting close to 3:00p.m. Ten minutes down the road I realized I left my cell phone. We drove back to the house and I ran and grabbed it. Down the road we roared. Then it occurred to me I needed to check for messages. Sure enough, Ric had sent a message for me NOT to pick her up.

WE turned and headed forthe shoe store. We got BoBO a new pair of tennis shoes. We stopped back by Burger King and came home. It was no time til He was trying to feed Dixie thru the carrier door. He was sharing his chicken tenders. A NO NO for Dixie. He finished eating and while I was in the bathroom for a much needed facewashing, took his baby tools and tried to free her. It didn't take long for him to realize his tools would not do the job. He did manage to work one corner hinge loose. When I came back in the room he was trying to unlatch the side panels of the carrier. :{

WE freed Dixie and leashed her for the great outdoors. Schnoodle had been out and was now back in under the bed with the door shut as was Lady. WE took her out and she just sat there trembling as she is not familiar with a leash. We came back in and in less than two minutes she did her little leakie on my carpet. oh well...clean what u can and keep truckin'.

WE went out on the porch so he could play outside for a little while. She stood at the door wanting out. I did not dare let her loose. I could never chase her down and still keep track of BoBo. After five to ten minutes BOBo wanted his other truck. He has learned to open the door so in the house he went with her trailing him out of site. About that time I heard him say, "POOPOOO!" Dixie had perched in the doorway for her moment of glory.

Back in the house, using a paper towel, I banished her little trophy to the trash. The racing to and fro started again.

BoBo has his own little cabinet with a shelf for cookies and treats. He just got the box of vanilla wafers and tried to give Little Dixie a treat as I sit here regaling the cyber world owith their exploits. A vanilla wafer doesn't sound like a big deal. But, for a teacup yorkie with a stomach no bigger than a marble it is nothing short of a great feast. Once again I raced to grab. She ate maybe a forth of the wager. **sigh*

Sis will pick up Dixie at 5:30ish. Mommy just texted and will be here in about an hour. Yepo!~ 5:30ish! The countdown has begun!~

Ladybug keeps whinning at the bedroom door and Dixie is racing back and forth getting excited over that too. And so the saga goes raging on... In Mema World.

Weathering the Weather!~ And, the power of Prayer!~

Well, I am so grateful and thankful to my God.

My son lives in an area of Tecumseh where the streets and houses around him were hammered. My heart goes out to those who lost loved ones and who have suffered loss. This is the second time my son has lived right in the middle of a hard hit area. I do believe in the power of prayer.

My two youngest grandsons, his boys, were at their mom's house. The house around the corner was totally demolished. This poor couple lost everything. But, they are safe and that is what matters. I do believe in the power of prayer.

My sister was on her work shift at the hospital, and could not locate my nephew who lives right on Lake Thunderbird. It was tense for some time, later around 10:30 p.m., we learned that when his family packed and moved to safety he decided to go on to work. He did not want to lose his job. So, everyone was in shelters and he was at work with his phone turned off. The Marina right down the road now sits in the middle of the lake with boats destroyed and piled everywhere. I am so thankful he is ok. I do believe in the power of prayer.

We also could not locate my oldest sister who also lives in the Lake T-Bird area. She and her family are all ok. I do believe in the power of prayer.

My brother-in-Law lives right along Hwy-9, and was in the path of the storm. He could see the tornado as it headed his direction from miles away. His neighbor behind him has a barn sitting on top of the back of his house and a tree was on top of his van. My BIL is fine. He raced South down the road to his little boy who was with his mother at her house in a trailer. They were in the tub with a mattress on top of them. The roof and siding were severely damaged. I do believe in the power of prayer.

My other BIL and our Aunt live side by side, also in the path of the storm . They came out of his shelter to find debris all over their yards. Insulation, magazines and what not. Thier homes were ok. I do believe in the power of prayer.

My daughter was on the road headed home East of town, with her hubby and her daughter. They saw the swirling and the lowering of yet another and different tornado, as my SIL raced at high speed to get away to safety. They were in a rural flat area with no visible place to hide. She was terrified as she could see the debris cloud. I do believe in the power of prayer.


Country Boy grocery on Hwy-9 East of Norman, is a total loss. I shop the meat market there. I hear that they herded everyone into the meat locker and everyone is ok. I do believe in the power of prayer.

Loves country store on I-40Est of OKC, was also hit and is a total loss. The employees herded everyone into the cooler and they hid in a closet. One of the young girls who is employed there said they just prayed to God that everyone would be safe. I do believe in the power of prayer.

Today my oldest grandson was sent to Northern Oklahoma to work on repairs. I will be praying as the storms may hit West and North later today. And, again I say, I do believe in the power of prayer.

Spring Cleaning!~

I've been sorting through so many nooks and crannies here at home. I cleaned out the file cabinet this morning. Whew~! It was packed. I tossed so much old paperwork. I have slowly sorted and cleaned a number of trouble spots in the last few weeks. I have an ongoing To-Do list that I am slowly marking down to the end.

We've all had allergy problems and BoBo was soooo sick. Hunny is still fighting with his and he will not go to the doctor or take any meds. Maybe this week-end he can rest and fight it off. I sure hope so.

Week before last we sorted stuff in the garage and got ready for a garage sale. Then the forecast called for rain. I decided to wait until this Saturday. Then I found out the church picnic is this Saturday, so I postponed again until next week. LOL We will see... I have a ton of good stuff to sell. WE are such pack rats.

I have been in good spirits and that is totally due to the good pastoring and preaching from my Pastor. So many good sermons in recent weeks. But, then again, he always has such good guidance for everyday living. And, the spiritual growth I have experienced since I started this church is almost mind boggling.

1) I am learning to "gird up the loins of my mind, and bring all things into the captivity of Christ." I need these reminders from my Pastor. I read my Bible everyday, or at least almost every morning. But, his guidance is critical as the Man of God in my life. I feel so sad for people who do not have my kind of Pastoral leadership. So many churches are just drifting along and the membership must really struggle with stresses. A good pastor can make all the difference.

2) He recently taught on "Evidence." I am using the evidence I find in the Bible, and in my life, to remind me of his everlasting power, and presence in my life and in the world around me.

3) I was amazed by his teaching on Wednesday nite. He used scripture to remind us how the "meek" can be so spiritually ready for all things. I forget... and need the reminders. Iwas really surprised at the scriptures on Meekness throughout the Bible.

It helps to remember that every miracle in the Bible was awesome, but was only performed by God after some major disaster or crisis. I have seen miracles in my life and they are always following some major valleys in my life or the lives of people around me.

I am in good spirits and even tho my allergies are still annoying me I am prepared to picnic tomorrow. I am about to head to the store for my supplies. i am taking a few condiments, a selection of chips, large cooler of iced tea, and desserts. My job is mostly shopping and baking a couple of cakes. :)

I did invite several friends and family to the picnic, but almost all of them already have plans. My daughter is going to a late funeral, and hubby has to help a friend work on vehicles.

But, my sister and her son are going with me. It is good to have my sister and her son back in church. :)

A Fish outta Water!~

Like the old saying goes, sometimes I feel like a fish outta water. I missed church Sunday nite and on Wednesday nite too. This Fish needs the Water of Life on a daily basis. When I am floundering in the woes and darkness of life around me it helps to remember that Jesus is the Water. And, I need him to see me through this life.

When I get caught up in life drama and or the darkness around me I can get really crazy. Or, when I wake up in a bad place, I have to pray my way through into the light. Then out the door I go to face the people on the roads. Sheesh!~ I am not a patient person on the road. I want to tell people how to drive but they won't listen. Just yesterday I was driving along and someone did something to annoy me. I was almost ready to wave my arms and hands to give them the road guidance they needed. When it hit me. If they were to visit my church I would welcome them with smiles and the love of Christ. But, on the roads I just wanna box 'em. I need to work on this issue. It seems to be my lot it life to get behind Farmer Dave or Mrs. Farmer Dave. They pull out in front of me. Or, the worst of the worst, they are so busy talking on the cell phone they park at an intersection and all the other three corners wait for them to Mooooove!~ I must try to remember that even if I never meet them, they need the love of Christ and have his forgiveness just like I do. :}

This fish went to the Doctor yesterday. I actually drove myself and had a quiet trip all alone. The roads were clean and everyone was driving nice. I did my lab work on Monday so I figured things would go well. Well, Doc wanted more lab work. So after I saw him I went for more labs. EEEEEEEEW!~ Oh, how I hate needles. Since I had this open heart surgery almost eleven years ago, I am more accustomed to the poking and prodding now. But, I still cringe when the lab tech turns to me with a needle. It is a blessing. I know it is. If I were not afraid of needles I might have ended up an addict. lol Who knows?!

On my way home I found the most wonderful Gospel music channel. 88.7 based out of Ada, Oklahoma. But, when I turned in my area I lost it. They played a couple of songs we sing at church. It was such a blessing. I listen to Oasis and Bott here and they are great. But, this was a more apostolic venue and I was so thrilled. It was a good trip. Aside from all the aches and pains, and stiffness, it was a great trip for me. I had the opportunity to engage in praise and worship all the way home. When hubby drives me I usually listen to his selections, or we play CD's. The music is good too, but, it doesn't give me the spiritual high.

I need the spiritual renewal that comes with music and the quiet times with my God. I face the drama and darkness in the lives of people around me and I have to work at maintaining my spiritual strength. I was once just as lost and the darkness pervaded and invaded my entire world. I struggled to find my way through the darkness and did not know why things were so crazy. I have to remind myself constantly that my loved ones or even someone on the street may be struggling with that same darkness.

This world, this life is so full of chaos and everyday things that clamour for our attention. For my kids and grandkids work and school have so many pressing struggles. I am amazed that I once lived just like that without the renewal and constant guidance from above. Oh, I prayed and read my Bible from time to time. But, the commitment to my spiritual walk was not there. So, from my own experience, I know that they too flounder and don't even know it.

It comes down to this: We are all fish outta Water without Jesus. Thank His precious name He is the Fisher of men, and the Water of Life.

I hold fast to his promise that my children and my husband are included in his Redeeming Grace.

Birds and Plapples and Flowers!~

I was out working in the yard the other day and sat down to rest. I was going slow trying not to overdo. Lo, and behold, one of the local male Redbirds flew down in front of my by the garage and just watched me. I finally realized he was waiting for me to clean and fill the birdbath.

So, I got the hose and sprayed out the birdbath and added fresh water. The "Plapple" tree flowers had blown in from the windy days and the bath was so nasty. I filled it about half full and went and sat down to finish my restation. LOL

I looked back over and there he was slapping the water with is wings and dipping his head and shaking it. He finished his bath and then I noticed her on the lower branches of the Plapple just beyond the rim of the birdbath. She was the lookout for any and all predators. When he finished, and hopped out, she jumped in for her bath. It was such a lovely sight. SHe just slapped and splashed and preened in the water for him. What magnificent creatures. When bath time was over they both sat on the branches and preened their feathers. Amazing!~

The Plapple tree is actually a wild plum tree a friend gave me. I planted it close to the house because all wild plum trees are usually so small. I figured it would be ok. Well, I watered and used Miracle Gro and that tree is big. lol Most years the plums are marble size as is typical of wild plum trees. But, a couple of years ago, the tree produced plums the size of small apples. My Hunny has called it a "Plapple" since then. My brother-in-law made several pints of wild plum jelly from that crop and it was a bountiful crop. lol

My Azaeleas are blooming and they are so beautiful this year. Five pink bushes and one crimson. I was so worried the snow would destroy them during the last cold spell but, they survived. I have Irises too. Yipeee~ MY tulips this year were monstrous and right at Easter. I am concerned about my flower bed under the tree in the front yard. I pulled a lot of poison ivy this time. sheesh~ I need to check into that shake and weed stuff. :{

It took a couple of days to get over the aches and pains from the yard work. But, I do believe that God in his infinite wisdom knew I needed to see his handiwork every time I walk out the door. I love to take quiet moments to sit out there and reflect.

Plowin' along...

It is a quiet Saturday afternoon and I am finishing up a few things around the house before I go pick up BoBo. I don't bother with anything other than chasing him around when he is here. Aside from cooking or a bit of laundry I don't get much done. I do have quality time with him and that is all that matters. I wonder if that sweet great grandson of mine will remember me when he is grown. I cherish him with all my heart. It is such a joy to see him smile and when he is happy, I am happy. :P

I am so blessed to have such good boys for my grandsons. All of them are the kind of kids that make grandparents so proud. Even when they are less than perfect they are still so far above some of the other kids seen out in public today. good parents... they aren't perfect either, but they try and see to their kids. I am a proud mama and mema. I wonder if anyone reading this later on can tell? I love my kids and grandkids. Just for the record!~

It is rainy again today so BoBo will not be able to go into the backyard and play on his tractor. He will be full of energy. I usually let him run amuck riding his toys and pushing some of the push ones. It helps to burn up some of his excess energy and helps to slow the little fella down.

It amazes me that he really is such a good boy during church usually. here at home he never slows down. I so hope we can keep the routine going and I can keep him in church as long as I am able.

I am still so sore from the yard work. I will take a couple of tylenol before I go to pick him up. LOL It is the only way I will be able to do the bending down to him.

I just found out that my son made a tentative deal on a house in East Texas over last week-end. So, it looks like he will be moving soon. *sigh* I so hope this works out for him and his family. I will miss him so much.

We got up early and hit the grocery store for a big sale at FireLake. Spring produce!~ Got a ton of fresh strawberries and veggies. I cleaned and stored six quarts of strawberries for the freezer. I did fresh broccoli and cauliflower for the fridge. I love this time of year. We sure enjoy the fresh cucumbers, tomatoes and other goodies from the garden during summer.

My daughter does not like strawberries because of the seeds. But, my hunny can eat them fresh or frozen. It is so much healthier to freeze them myself and add sweetener rather than a ton of sugar.

I am just rambling and will stop for now. I need to get busy and stop piddling around. lol

Beautiful rainy day~

It's been a beautiful and cloudy rainy afternoon here. I so love a quiet rain without the threat of storms and or tornadoes. Woohooooo!` I took a wonderful afternoon nap. I was laid out on the heating pad and it eased the pain and I slept. LOL I soooo needed it too. I worked like a crazy fool yesterday in the yard getting the front cleaned up and ready before the rain. I am just too old and decrepit to overdo like that anymore. I can barely bend over to the floor to pick something up today. I hope I am better tomorrow as it will be a real problem trying to pick up BoBo. LOL But, hey, my front yard looks so much better. whew!~ Bwaaaaaa, my hands and muscles and arms and legs and back hurt... even myneck...old age is not always fun. I used to tell people I wanted to grow old gracefully. Ha~! I had no idea that the pain was so total body impacting. hee hee hee Forget gracefully. I will settle for less painfully.

I am so awed by the wonders of nature. I love to admire Gods handywork and the beauty of the trees and sky, clouds, and even rain, can leave me in awe. The recent natural disasters like earthquakes remind me that He is so powerful. The volcanic eruption in Iceland and all the earthquakes remind me that as prophesied n Matthew Chapter 24, time is fast approaching Jesus' return.

It troubles me that people are so mindlessly living lives and running along without a thought to life after flesh. It concerns me greatly that my loved ones don't seem to be aware of His ultimate plan for mankind. Everyone seems to operate on the current level of live for today.

Today for me starts with prayers and a quiet time of Bible reading. That is unless, I have BoBo and he is up early and running amuck. It is kinda hard to find quiet time with a two year old who needs food and attention. lol I am teaching him to love his little books tho'. We start there.

Pastor recommended a Max Lucado book, and I now have it, and hope to find time in the next few days to read it. Maybe next week.

Note to self: still need to try and locate the youth group link here.

Runnin the roads...lol

Between chasing back and forth to school and doctors visits with my grandson things have been hectic. I haven't been on here for several days now. Last night Pastor told us the youth group started a blogspot so I made myself take time to get here. I tried to get to their blog and could not find it. I will check with pastor as I want to find their blog and be as supportive as possible. Our youth group kids are the greatest.

My grandson went to the doctor twice this week and drove himself both times and that was a blessing. Testing that lasted for hours on Tuesday and a return trip on Wednesday. No word on all the testing as I guess that takes a few days. Hopefully and God willing things will be figured out soon and he can get back on track.

My granddaughter just made the Cheer leading squad at her school and I am so proud of her. She makes good grades and is a good kid. I know this meant a lot to her as she is the type to press and work hard. The school does not have football but they do boast great championship teams in baseball and basketball as well. I know she looks forward to next year with great anticipation.

My son and his wife are planning to move to East Texas when school is out due to economic woes in this area. There's just not enough new construction to keep him busy and he is a master craftsman at trim carpentry. But, the thought that he will be so far away tears at my heart. WE are a close family. My son and my daughter and I have always been very close and I cannot imagine either of them being far away. *sigh* But, life takes the turns and we have to walk in faith. The work and housing in the area he is planning to move to is very promising and I don't blame him at all for thinking about the move. But, oh, how I will miss him popping thru the front door every few days.

I had an Education meeting on Tuesday night. Since it was a Fire training course with guest speakers providing information we had refreshments. The Ed Director ordered cheese and fruit trays and I volunteered to bake a couple of cakes. I made one chocolate and an orange cake. I took the leftover orange cake by the park to my son. He and his wife were watching the kids play basketball. I won't be able to do those kinds of things if he moves. Orange cake is his favorite. Oh, Mamma if feelin' sad about this situation. But, our problems are small in comparison to others in the world around us. The EAC is still my only commitment outside my church, home, and family since I retired.

A Time of Testing!~

The last few months have been such a time of testing for my entire family. So many things going on that cannot be posted in respect for others' privacy. But, just waiting for the biopsy on my daughter is trying for the senses. Now my oldest grandson is going thru much the same thing, in that he will be undergoing testing for colon cancer. I keep holding fast to my faith and believing that My God is Able to deliver and to heal. But, there are those moments when I have to really pray my way back to sanity. The mind starts wavering and the spirit feels weak. Whew!~

But, early in the mornings when I pray and read my Bible I can seek and find those quiet moments in his presence. When that happens and I feel his touch I am strengthened and my day is so blessed with peace. I know that everything happens for a reason and we must walk through the valleys and look for his light.

I have had so many demands that I have not a book for weeks now. But, in the meantime I carry my sewing bag with me. I have managed to catch up on some mending and needlework.

BoBo is doing so good and that makes me so happy. Last week-end the little stinker woke-up Sunday morning at 1:00a.m. He went back to sleep at 5:00 a.m. after a good breakfast. I was exhausted all day and took him home late that afternoon and fell into bed very early. This old lady is not as spry as needed to keep up with him when he is in dynamo gear. lol

I so hope he gets a good nights sleep tonite so we don't have to miss church tomorrow morning. I was so punchy last Sunday I wasn't too pumped about even driving down the street to take him home.

My oldest sister is finally feeling some better. She's had some kind of chest congestion for three months. She finally went to a different doctor and the meds he prescribed are helping. I am thankful she did get a new doctor. She has been so sick.

Dogs have been a big problem for months at the farm and so many calves and cows have been chased and chewed just for doggy sport. My brother-in-law, his best friend, and hubby have finally solved the problem for the moment I think. You don't wanna know what they did and finally did to deal with the dogs. I would like to get my hands on the idiots who dump their dogs and the neighbors who think they should let the dogs run free. duh!~ morons!~

Week before last the old store where Paul lives got burgled three days in a row. So hunny and the crew, did a lot of looking in the surrounding area for a truck caught on camera. Some one was going out back and carrying off anything they could find to sell for scrap and aluminum. But, third night my b-i-l was driving by just after dark, and saw a truck and pulled in and caught them. The driver of the truck got away with all the stolen goods, but, two teenagers he had with him were not so lucky. They both had the opportunity to visit with county law enforcement. LOL We may never get hunny's old tractor motor back, but at least the boys now know they are being watched. The law was very interested in this because several homes have been burgled just down the road in recent days.

I do not know how this will all turn out, only time will tell.

I am content in the knowledge that MY God is still on his throne. With this country in a tizzy over health care and other issues, I just keep turning all things over to his care. "Yea, tho I walk... for thou art with me."

Desires of the Heart!~ and my Vision!~

I wish I were strong as a horse. I was very strong and healthy in my youth. I wish I had a billion dollars. I could do so many things like help with the new church, and help my kids, or, drill water wells in areas of the world where it is so desperately needed. I wish for a lot of things.

BUT, the desires of my heart, are far simpler and far removed from those things I just mention.

In Psalms the Bible says:
Psalm 37:4
"4. Delight thyself also in the Lord, and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart."

And in the Book of Habakuk:
Habakuk 2:2,3,4
"2. And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.
3. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.
4. Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith."

I do delight myself in the Lord. My greatest peace and joy comes when I am reading my Bible or during prayers or worship service at church. He knows the desires of my heart. I am working on a constant walk in faith, and now, the belief that he will give me the desires of my heart.

I have heard a couple sermons over time about the Habakuk verses and writing down our vision. So, taking these two segments of scripture. I am writing my vision down.

The desires of my heart are that my husband, my son, my daughter, my grandchildren, my great grandson and the extended families of my son and daughter all get in church. My Vision is for each and every one of them to find spiritual guidance, grace and redemption. My vision includes their repentance, and their receiving the Holy Ghost and Baptism of cleansing, renewal and regeneration. My vision is now written. I pray it is received.

Having read Matthew chapter 24, Mark 13 and Luke 21, many times over the years, I believe that the end is so near. I just pray that my precious loved ones are ready for His coming.