Friday Food Fun

Don't you love recipes that are super-duper, easy-peasy?!?!?

Yeah, me, too!!!

I get an e-mail from Betty Crocker called "Dinner Made Easy".....

.....and this was one of the dessert recipes:

(photo courtesy of www.bettycrocker.com)

Peach Crisp

1 pouch (1 lb 1.5 oz) Betty Crocker Oatmeal Cookie Mix

1/2 cup cold butter

5 cups frozen sliced peaches, thawed and drained,

or 1 can (29 oz) sliced peaches, drained

1. Heat oven to 375°F

1) In large bowl, place cookie mix. Cut in butter, using pastry blender or fork, until mixture looks like coarse crumbs.

2) In ungreased 8-inch square baking dish or 2-quart round casserole, place peaches. Sprinkle cookie mixture over peaches.

3) Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until topping is golden brown. Serve warm or cool.

Just imagine the other fruits you could use....apples....strawberries...blueberries...cherries....maybe, even pineapple?!?!?!?

Yummy, yummy, yummy!!!

Happy Friday to each of you....hope you have a wonderful weekend!!!

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

Owl-together now!!!

Wonder why I chose 'Wise Old Owl' for the title of this blog?

Huh...do 'ya?!?!?

Since nobody has asked...I'll share a bit of why!!!

I've had an infatuation with owls for many years.

I don't remember when....or how....it started...but it's been a loooooong time!!!

As this little blog progresses....I'll share a few of my favorites in my collection....but until then....here's what Winnie the Pooh (A A Milne) has to say about his friend, Owl:

"Owl hasn't exactly got brains, but he knows things."

(this sounds so much like me...ha! ha!

Could it be why I love owls so much???)

Blessings,

Prayerful Thursday

So many people in need of prayer....so.....I'll get right to it:

1. Family of Mr. Robert Roushey

Mr. Roushey passed away Sunday night. His daughter, Janine, is a friend of mine from church. Please keep this precious family in your prayers as they grieve their loss.

2. Family of Mr. Cecil Cates

Mr. Cates is the brother of Mr. George, a sweet man from church. Again, please pray for this family.

3. Mr. Ken Matthews and Mr. David Seal

These two gentlemen were electrocuted today at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds. Both are in critical condition. Please keep them, their families, and their doctors in your prayers.

4. Mr. Charles Hayes

Mr. Hayes has cancer and hospice is with him. Please pray for his comfort and peace and also for his wife, Ann.

5. Mr. John Watson

Mr. Watson also has cancer and hospice is with him. Please pray for God to provide him with peace and comfort and also for Him to give strength to his family.

6. Miss Brianna

Miss Brianna will be having surgery next Monday. Please keep her and her Mom, Charlotte, in your prayers, along with the surgeon. Also, please keep Charlotte in your prayers regarding a possible new job.

7. Ms. Jill

Please keep her in your prayers as she is very ill.

8. Pastor Search Committee

Please keep the search committee for a new pastor in your thoughts and prayers. Pray for God to give each of them discernment to choose the man God wants us to have.

9. Kenny

Kenny is back home with his Mommy and Daddy and his brothers and grandparents, and is doing really well...gaining strength each day. I know his Mom, Marenda, would love for me to thank each of you for your prayers for their precious son. Please continue to lift him up in prayer for continued strength.

I want to leave you with the last part of a very familiar verse of scripture. It was brought out in our Wednesday evening message:

James 5:16 (NIV)
The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

May I recommend......

.....this exercise DVD????

I know.....who am I to recommend anything....especially something that makes you sweat....uh, I mean perspire?!?!?!?!

But.....

I LOVE to walk....and sometimes I just can't get out and do that....like this morning for instance, because it was pouring down rain!!!

So....I put this DVD on the computer.....

.....and exercised in the privacy of my living room!!!!

There are a lot of "Walk Away the Pounds" DVD's out there....

....so why this one?

Because....the music you walk to is Christian music....

like "Just a Closer Walk With Thee".

(see that little "stamp" at the bottom that says "A Christian Inspired Workout"?)

And....Leslie Sansone talks about praising Jesus during the workout....and at the very end there's a really good audio portion about the Love of God!!!

Blessings,

Fruit of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

A few years ago our Ladies Bible Study group did the Beth Moore study on "Fruit of the Spirit". At the beginning of the class, our leader asked each of us to write down which one of the "fruits" we felt was our biggest weakness. I can't remember which one I chose....but if asked today, it would definitely be "self-control". I talked with a friend on the phone the other night, and another one via e-mail in the last couple of days....and the topic of free-will came up!!! Boy...do I ever wish....that God would give me a list of do's and don't's....instead of that free will stuff!!! That's where my lack of self-control comes in. More on that another day!!!

Anyway....what made me think of the "fruit of the Spirit" was something that happened in our Sunday school class this past Sunday. Our teacher...and myself...haven't been there for a couple of Sunday's because of a committee at church that has been visiting some other churches. I'm not sure which one of us missed it most, but she had really missed teaching our class....and I had missed listening to her teach it!!! I know that each of us should be proud of our teachers and our Sunday school classes...but mine is THE BEST!!!!! If you don't have a class...or even a home church for that matter....and you live close by....please, please visit our church and come to Sunday school class with me!!! I have received tremendous blessings from being in that class. And...sometimes....we have "church" in Sunday school before we ever even get to the worship service!!!

Okay....I got a bit off topic, didn't I?

Can't help it....once you hear Ms. Thelma teach and run cross references in scripture and give historical facts and what certain numbers mean in scripture...well, you're gonna be sittin' there with your mouth hanging open in awe.....dreading for the class to be over!!!

Okay...I promise I'm getting to my point!!!

This past Sunday....

....our class was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G....

....as usual.

Our lesson was actually about the Trinity....but, somewhere along the way, Ms. Thelma talked a bit about the fruits of the Spirit. She prays for our class....she prays for each member of our class individually....and she told us Sunday that when she thinks of us, she's reminded of different fruits of the Spirit...then, she went around the room and pointed to us one at a time, and told what fruit came to mind when she thought about us!!!

I just think that was so very special of her to do....and you could tell it wasn't pre-planned...it was just something that the Holy Spirit prompted her to do...right then and there!!!!

Do you know what "fruit of the Spirit" means?

It's the qualities of character God grows inside of you.

It's more than mere spiritual.....or personal growth....it's God at work within a person!!!

So....it got me to thinking....instead of finding fault in other people, which is what we sometimes do, right? We're often so quick to look at a person's faults, instead of their good qualities....or am I talking to myself here?!?!?

Let's all try....from now on....to get to know a person and try to think about which "fruit" they most display.

It will be difficult to look at any body's faults when we're too busy looking for their "fruit"!!!!

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

Looking for Followers....and Comments

A lot of you might not realize this...but....Wise Old Owl is not my only blog.

If you get a chance, please check out my "other blog".....

Jeremiah 29:11.

I received a super blessing just the other day from a lady....from Canada....who left me a comment on Jeremiah 29:11 that she had made that blog her home page!!!

WOW!!!

Thank you, Lord!!!

Anyway.....I'm looking for lots of followers....and lots of comments....on both of my blogs. I'm approaching 100 posts on Wise Old Owl, and once I reach 100....I'm gonna have a give-a-way...but....here's what you're gonna have to do to be in on it.

You've gotta become a follower on both blogs!!!

So....get busy....just click on "join this site"....I promise it won't cost you any blood....or your first born....or anything as major as that....and...you can also follow as "anonymous".

Although....I would very much prefer you at least put your first name...or a nick-name that I would recognize!!!

It does mean setting up a Google account....and that's very simple to do, too!!!

So...become a follower....and when Wise Old Owl reaches 100 posts (I'm on about 80 right now)....I'll find a little something to give to one of you precious "Followers"....probably something hand-made....by muah!!!!!!
(but don't let that hinder you...ha! ha!)

Blessings,

A Sweet Give-A-Way

Visit Tricia at Boutelle Family Zoo and check out her give-a-way of two subscriptions to Better Homes and Gardens magazine!!!

Become a follower....and leave her a comment....and let her know I sent 'ya...and I'll get an extra chance to win!!!

Thanks in advance!!!

Blessings,

The Breast Cancer Site

~~~~~Just a reminder~~~~~

Be sure to visit

"the breast cancer site"

.....and sign up to receive a daily e-mail reminding you to click to help give free mammograms to women who can't afford them!!!

Blessings,

Are you happy?

Are you happy?

Has it been way too long since you've even felt happy?

Have you forgotten what it even feels like?

I thought a lot about being happy while driving home from running some errands yesterday. It seems that with so many things going on in my life...and the lives of those around me....I've not felt much happiness lately

(well, except for how the boys make me feel)

So many times we allow life in general to rob us of our happiness.

Yesterday....I felt happy.

It must have showed, too....because we were out with Jess yesterday afternoon, and she even commented on my "good mood".

There's a big difference between being "happy"...and being "joyful".

Did you know that?

You can be full of the joy that only being a Christian can bring....and still not be happy. I've had some things troubling me lately...things that have robbed me of being happy. But, even though I might not have felt happiness....I was still very blessed to be full of the joy that the Holy Spirit brings. I've attended some wonderful church services in the past few weeks, where the Holy Spirit was definitely in the house. Sunday night at church, we had an amazing singing group come and bless us in song....and my heart again filled up to almost the point of bursting!!!!

Often, even in the midst of feeling the joy that only the Holy Spirit can bring....we're still faced with problems that rob us of our happiness. I'm so very much reminded of Job when I think along these lines. Job had absolutely nothing to be happy about. He had lost his sons and his daughters and every single thing that made up his "wealth"....but, in the midst of it all....he still remained "joyful" in that He wouldn't turn his back on his Savior...because Job knew where his joy and strength came from.

So...long story short...just because you might not be feeling very "happy"....don't mistake...or even compare....that feeling with the feeling of joy!!!

Definition of happy....glad, or pleased

Definition of joy....the emotion evoked by well-being

What better state of "well-being"...could any of us experience...than the security of being a child of God....even if we aren't feeling very happy?!?!?!

Psalm 146:5-6 (KJV)
Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God: Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: which keepeth truth for ever.

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

Tell Your Hubby You Love Him

ATTENTION:

FOR THE MARRIED LADIES ONLY!!!!

and

VERY LONG POST!!!!

Ephesians 5:31-33 (NLT)
As the Scriptures say, “A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.” This is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one. So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

Now that I have your attention with my title post....and that this post is for the married ladies only.....here's what I want to talk about today....loving our hubbies....and making him feel special!!!

Oh, I know you love your husband....and he loves you.....but....how often do we go out of our way to do a little something extra just for him...just to build him up and make him feel truly wanted and needed? Now...don't be thinking to yourself...well, what has he done for me lately?...or....Why would I want to go out of my way for him when he sure doesn't for me?

Let's get the focus off of self today....and put it on our husbands!!!

I was searching for some scripture to put on a little chalk board that I have in the kitchen. For several weeks now, it's simply said "I LUV MY HUBBY"!!!

In my search for something else to write on there...I came across this web-site that talks about

"101 Ways to Tell Your Hubby You Love Him"...

and wanted to share it with you...so....I picked out 51 of my favorites:

(comments in parenthesis are mine)

As we enter into marriage, we may wonder how we ever lived life without our mate. We're focused on each other, and that makes us close. However, the longer we're married, our focus tends to turn to jobs, bills, or children and less on each other. Unfortunately, this causes many marriages to turn cold and some eventually die. Have you ever wondered how people stay married for 30, 40, or more years? Do you want your marriage to last a lifetime? The key is to stay focused on your mate. Here are some ways for you to show your husband your love. Choose at least five every day and watch your marriage blossom into a wonderful relationship!

1. TEXT HIM A LOVE MESSAGE

Send him a romantic text message on his cell. Make sure it's sweet but spicy!

(Ladies...he's YOUR HUSBAND....it's okay to be spicy!!!)

2. DO ONE OF HIS CHORES FOR HIM

Pick a chore that he dreads, such as mowing the lawn, and do it for him. Watch him as he sighs with relief. (Pappy loves it when I mow the yard and he doesn't have to do it...plus...if you push mow....think of the exercise you're getting!!!)

3. SHOW APPRECIATION

When your husband works hard, or does something for you, let him know you appreciate him.
(I've truly tried to do this one...especially, since I've quit work and he tries to work several hours OT each week to help out with the bills...and give us a little extra spending $$$)

4. MAKE YOUR HOME HIS REFUGE

Let your home be a haven where your husband can retreat from the stresses of life. Do your best to make it a pleasant environment.

5. LAUGH AT HIS ANTICS

Don't let the little things that your husband does get on your nerves. If you think about it, some of these things may have been what attracted you to him! He just wouldn't be the same if he didn't do these things.

(Moment of confession...there are some things that Pappy does that "get on my last nerve"...but....I'm really trying to "let it go"....because....things could be so much worse than him riding a stick horse around the yard....or, clapping too loudly....or whatever else it is....my husband loves the Lord...and he loves me...what more could I ask for??? Plus...the boys love how playful their Pappy is!!!)

6. PRAY FOR HIM

Ask God to give him that extra boost to make everything OK. Let your husband hear you pray too. This will let him know that when you can't make it right, you'll ask someone who can.

(when I hear the garage door go up in the mornings, and Pappy is heading to work....I pray for his safety...and for security of his job!!!

7. CHECK BEFORE THROWING THINGS AWAY

If your husband has some things that seem useless to you, don't trash them until you've made sure he doesn't need them.

(this one I learned the hard way...don't ask!!!)

8. CHECK BEFORE REARRANGING

Ask your husband if it's OK before you move or straighten things on his desk or work area. If he has things where it's easy to find, it might make it chaotic if it's moved.

(without being mean....I wouldn't even know where to start rearranging...so I just don't touch it!!!)

9. DON'T EXPECT HIM TO READ YOUR MIND

If there is something you want your husband to know about you, tell him. Don't expect him to just know what you're thinking or what you need.

(I truly believe this is a MAJOR DIFFERENCE between men and women....don't all women expect their husbands to just automatically know without being told...no matter what it is?!?!?)

10. LAUGH TOGETHER

Forget you're adults for awhile, and just act silly together. Also, if something should go awry, try to find some humor in it somewhere. This will also reduce the stress of the situation.

(this is something that we used to do a lot when Jess was little....not so much in recent years....I'm gonna work on this one!!!)

11. RESIST THE URGE TO SNOOP

Don't sneak around and check up on your husband, if you want to know something, ask him to his face.

(TRUST, TRUST, TRUST!!!)

12. GIVE HIM A ROMANTIC CARD

Don't wait for a special occasion to give him a card. Find the most romantic card you can find and leave it in his car. Don't forget to add your own personal message! Maybe you'll even make him nervous, wondering if he forgot an anniversary!

(I haven't done this one in a while!!)

13. PACK HIS FAVORITE TREAT

Buy his favorite candy bar or other treat, and pack it in his lunch with a love note.

14. TAKE A BUBBLE BATH TOGETHER

This is self-explanatory.
(no personal comment on this one....a girl can't give away all her secrets!!!)

15. LET HIM BUY THAT TOY

Permit him to buy that toy he's been wanting so badly. Better yet, put some of your own things off, save the money and buy it for him yourself!
(oh, I wish I had the funds to do this one for Pappy!!)

16. TALK ABOUT THE FUTURE

The future isn't as far away as it seems sometimes. Talk about where you'd like to be when you're married 50 years, and work on making those dreams happen.

17. GIVE HIM THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT

Don't jump to conclusions if your husband has said or done something questionable. Give him the chance to explain before you pass judgement. (I think this comes with maturity....being married quite a while....and again TRUST, TRUST, TRUST!!!)

18. LET HIM BE THE MAN OF THE HOUSE

Although this is growing increasingly unpopular, it does still work. Just because your husband is in charge of the household doesn't mean that you can't share your opinions, it just means he's captain of the team.

(very difficult for strong-willed women....but it can happen....with practice...just ask me!!!)

19. SAY, "I'M SORRY"

Although you may not want to admit it, there will be times when you're in the wrong. Maybe you've said something hurtful or done something insensitive. Never have too much pride to tell him you're sorry.

(don't have a problem with this one!!!)

20. WRITE A NOTE ON THE STEAMED-UP BATHROOM MIRROR

While your husband is showering, sneak in and write, "I love you" on the steamed-up bathroom mirror.

21. LET BYGONES BE BYGONES

If your husband has done or said something to hurt you, forgive him. Don't keep bringing up the past every time you get into a disagreement, especially if he has shown remorse.

(this one takes a lot of practice...and maturity, too....I should know!!!)

22. BE HONEST

Don't hide things from your husband. Be open and transparent. This will help him trust you more.

23. BRAG ON HIM IN FRONT OF HIS FRIENDS

Men naturally rely on boost in their ego now and then in order to stay confident. Let him hear you tell others about the great things he says and does.

24. CLEAN HIS CAR FOR HIM

Surprise him by giving his car a good detailed cleaning. If you don't want to tackle it yourself, have it professionally done.

25. PUT HIS PICTURE IN WALLPAPER

Let him know that you still think he's a gorgeous hunk by putting his picture on your computer desktop!

26. WORSHIP TOGETHER

The couple who prays together, stays together. These will be very tender and special moments shared between the two of you, as well as important.

(AMEN to this one!!! This is something that Pappy and I didn't do for many years....but once we started praying together...out loud...it really made a difference in our relationship!!!)

27. EAT BY CANDLELIGHT

Cook his favorite meal and light the candles. Take time to focus on each other.

28. BE DEVOTED TO HIM

One of the greatest gifts that you could ever give your husband is your true faithfulness. This includes physically, emotionally, and in your thoughts. If you're struggling with temptation, nip it in the bud. Tell him your feelings in a sensitive and loving way. Don't bottle anything up, this is asking for disaster.

29. RUN YOUR FINGERS THROUGH HIS HAIR

Or massage his temples if he doesn't have any. Do this while he relaxes. Remember, your touch is important to him.

30. DON'T CONTRADICT HIM IN FRONT OF OTHERS

This will only embarrass him and cause people to lose respect. This is especially important if you have children.

31. DON'T CRITICIZE HIM IN FRONT OF OTHERS

If you feel that your husband needs a bit of constructive criticism, make sure it's just that - constructive. Don't offer it at all unless it's in a loving way, and in private. Being criticized in front of others lowers self esteem and causes hurt feelings.

32. DEFEND HIM

Don't let others disrespect your husband. Even just a snide comment can hurt. Stick up for him. Don't let someone drive into the ground the most important person in your life.

33. LOVE YOURSELF

Many times we as women hold back on our husbands because of our own insecurities. Learn to let it go. The things that we're so worried about, usually don't even bother him. What bothers him is when we hold back. Remember, although this may sound strange, you can't really love someone until you love yourself.

(work in progress!!!)

34. PAMPER HIM WHEN HE'S SICK

Men love to be pampered, especially when they're sick. Make sure everything is comfortable and that he has his "special soup."

35. LOOK HIM IN THE EYES

Look your husband straight in the eyes when he talks to you. Not only will this show that you're interested in what he has to say, but there is something about looking straight into his eyes that will give you butterflies.

36. DISPLAY YOUR MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE

Frame the sacred document of your marriage. This will be a wonderful and constant reminder that your love is sealed, and you really do belong to each other.

(hanging on our bedroom wall!!!)

37. DON'T GO TO BED MAD

Although you've probably heard this one for years, and it may have been your grandmother's first marriage advice to you, it is still true. Going to bed hurt or angry keeps feelings under the surface. When you wake up you don't want to continue the argument, so you you hold in your frustrations and they begin to mount. It's best to talk everything out, and fall asleep in each other's arms.

(I love the saying "Always Kiss Me Goodnight"....and I bought a sign that says that for Pappy for our anniversary one year....and that's something that we ALWAYS try to do before going to sleep....how can you stay mad if you're being kissed by the man you love??!?!?)

38. DON'T COMPARE HIM

Don't EVER, EVER compare your husband to another man - not even your father. Your husband is his own person and unique in his own ways. Love him for it.

(sad to say....in the past I was guilty of this one!!!)

39. GREET HIM AT THE DOOR

Don't wait for your husband to say, "Honey, I'm home!" Watch for him, and greet him at the door with a hug and kiss.

40. DEDICATE A SONG TO HIM

Did you have a song that was "your song" while you were dating?

41. GRAB A KISS WHILE YOU WAIT

Kiss your husband while you're waiting at the stoplight or in the food drive-through. Your wait won't seem near as long, and you may wish it could last a littler longer!

(I like this one....and I've done it!!!)

42. BE HIS BEST FRIEND

Let him feel confident that you'll always be there when needs to talk, to laugh, or even cry. Let him be free to be himself at all times and stick with him through the thick and thin.

43. CHERISH THE SMALL THINGS

Concentrate on the way he walks, the way he talks, his smile, or the way he says your name. These are really more important than you think, and no one can do it quite like him.

(As I've gotten older....I sometimes think about things that I would miss if something were to happen to Pappy....sad thought, I know, but it makes me concentrate more on him NOW....before it's too late!!!)

44. KEEP YOURSELF ATTRACTIVE

It's easy to fall into a "house wife" mode and just walk around in "cleaning clothes" with your hair twisted into a mess. That's OK while your actually cleaning, but try to be more presentable by the time your husband sees you. Bathe, put on clean clothes and a dab of perfume, and set your hair nice.

(this one....I've gotta work on!!!)

45. LOOK OUT FOR HIS HEALTH

Encourage your husband to get plenty of sleep and exercise. Try to get him to keep medical and dental appointments. Cook healthy meals, and give him nutritional supplements.

46. SPLURGE OCCASIONALLY

Although money is a precious commodity to many couples, try to find a way to splurge on something now and then. If you can't afford a trip, find a hotel in or near your hometown with a jacuzzi. If it's still too costly, buy something that you both would enjoy, like a new CD.

47. WORK ON YOUR WAYS

It's easy to see and point out flaws in your husband, but if you're honest, you'll realize that you haven't earned a halo yet. Try to work on your own shortcomings and make yourself a better person.

(this one was meant just for me!!!)

48. SEEK HIS ADVICE

Ask for your husband's input and advice on anything from children to what he might like to eat. This will let him know he's needed and that his thoughts are important.

49. SHOP FOR HIM

When you run to the store, see if there is something that you should pick up for him.

50. DON'T TALK HIS LEG OFF IF HE'S TIRED

If your husband is tired and you need to talk to him, go straight to the bottom line and spare the details.

51. JUST SAY IT

Make it a point to say the words I love you every single day, and mean it.

If you get a chance....visit the web-site and read all 101 ways. Some of them are romantic...and might not be exactly what would work between you and your hubby...but think of your own ways to let him know you're so glad you married him...and you'd do it all over again!!!!

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

Sunday Morning Song - Jesus Spoke to Me

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

Cross 4 Crowns in Concert

Just a reminder....

Cross 4 Crowns will be in concert at

Beech Springs Baptist Church

Sunday, July 26th, at 6:30 P.M.

This is a free event...and everyone is
welcome!!!

Please plan to attend....and bring a friend!!!

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

Happy, happy birthday, Big Brother!!!

Our first grandson....as I sweetly refer to as "Big Brother" on my blog....is three years old today. It's so hard to believe that it's already been three years. He's so excited about his "buff-day".....and he tells us he'll be "tree".

Oh, how precious he is....and how very much he's loved.

I thank God (and Jess and The Dad) that He blessed Pappy and me with our precious grandsons!!!

He has to be the most handsome 3 year old EVER!!!

Proverbs 17:6 (NLT)
Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged.

Blessings,

Happy happy birthday, Big Brother!!!

Our first grandson....as I sweetly refer to as "Big Brother" on my blog....is three years old today. It's so hard to believe that it's already been three years. He's so excited about his "buff-day".....and he tells us he'll be "tree".

Oh, how precious he is....and how very much he's loved.

I thank God (and Jess and The Dad) that He blessed Pappy and me with our precious grandsons!!!

He has to be the most handsome 3 year old EVER!!!

Proverbs 17:6 (NLT)
Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged.

Blessings,

A little exposure.....

My precious daughter had a give-a-way on her blog.....

Jessica Leigh Photography....

and asked me to make a couple of my fabric flowers. I made one out of fabric that she gave me that will be used in her brand, spankin' new craft room. The other one....I made up really quickly last night from looking at one I saw selling on Etsy. I knew I could make one similar...but with some fabric on hand. I cut a sleeve off of one of the Sari's I bought for a buck each at a yard sale a few months back

(read about them here)

and added some "leaves", and a big button in the center. It's entirely different than the other ones and I think I like the more abstract...but I guess it depends on what you're going to wear it on!!

Any-who....here are some pics of the flowers....and my gorgeous daughter modeling one she pinned to a cute hat!!!

(photos courtesy of Jessica Leigh Photography)

Blessings,

Friday Food Fun

I know everybody out there knows how to make these...and you've probably made them hundreds of times already...but....just in case....here's the recipe for one of Pappy's favorite desserts:

Chess Squares

1 package butter cake mix
1 stick butter-softened
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 box confectioners' sugar (1 lb)
3 eggs, slightly beaten
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Combine cake mix, butter and egg and pat into 9" x 13" pan. Mix sugar, eggs and cream cheese, and pour on the crust mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes, or until browned. Serves 12.

Hope each of you have a wonderful weekend!!!

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!!

A Couple More.....

My friend called me this morning with a couple of prayer requests that she would like you Prayer Warriors to put on your prayer lists!!!

1. Briana

I hope I'm spelling her name right. She is the daughter of Charlotte, who has been on our prayer list because of her work circumstances (please continue to pray for her to get a job she's interviewing for...if it's God's will!!!) Briana is having some tests run. Please pray that cancer isn't found. Ms. Briana is only 19 years old. Pray for her, Charlotte, and also the doctors.

2. Jill

This is a friend of my friend. Ms. Jill's daughter contacted my friend that she is very ill and that the doctors have advised her to 'get her affairs in order'. Ms. Jill needs the Lord...please pray that my friend can be of comfort to her during this time...but also lead her to accept Jesus into her heart....and also for traveling mercies as she travels to South Carolina to be with

Ms. Jill.

Please remember both of these (actually all 3)....when you pray today.

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

Prayerful Thursday

God Morning, Precious Blog Readers!!!

Can you believe that another week has almost come and gone....

....actually almost another month?!?!?!?

Where in the world does time go???

Remember when you were little and it just seemed like F-O-R-E-V-E-R when your parents would tell you about some upcoming event....or Christmas....or, your birthday????

Boy, now, birthdays come a bit too swift for me!!!

Oh, well....such is life.....and the only alternative is....well...you know what I'm talkin' about!!!!

So...enough said about that....let's get to some prayer requests and praises!!!!

1. Mr. Kenny

I heard from Kenny's Mom, Marenda....and he is doing FANTASTIC!!! Praise the Lord!!!! He has a doctor check up today, and they should be on their way home tomorrow!! Plus....they got into the Ronald McDonald House so that cut down a lot on their expense. Again...thank you, Precious Lord!!!

2. Mr. Charles Hayes

lease keep Charles and his wife, Ann, in your prayers. He has cancer and isn't doing very well at all.

3. Mr. Brock

Please continue to remember Brock in your prayers. He is almost 4 years old and had his tonsils out this week...he's still in quite a bit of pain. It just hurts my heart to hear about kids being in pain. Also, remember his Mommy and Daddy.

4. Mr. Lucas

This is a bit out, but Lucas will be having hernia surgery in August. He's only 2 years old, so please keep him and his sweet Mommy in your prayers!!!

5. Beech Springs Baptist Church

Please continue to remember our church in your prayers, and also our Pastor Search Committee. Please pray for God's will be done in sending us just the right pastor and leader!!!

6. Mr. Charlie Franklin

Please continue to remember Mr. Franklin in your prayers. He is the Dad of a co-worker of one of my good friends. Mr. Franklin has cancer and has been having some other problems, too, such as pneumonia.

7. Ms. Belinda

Ms. Belinda has her last chemo treatment for breast cancer next week .... YAY!!! The shot that she has to take to keep her white blood cell count up causes her tremendous pain. Please pray hard that this last treatment will go better than the last ones....and that the shot won't be nearly as hard on her body. Also, please pray as she will be going thru 6 weeks of radiation....5 days a week!!!

8. Several Anonymous Requests

I've heard this week....actually for the past several weeks....of several couples who are separating and/or divorcing. This just breaks my heart. What is with it when people take their wedding vows?? Don't they listen to what they're actually committing to??? Here's the thing...and please know that I'm not judging...only observing....out of about 7 different couples having problems.....only 2 of them were in church regularly....and one of them, only the wife. Again I'm not passing judgment...but marriage takes 3. I wish people would realize that when they took their wedding vows:

GOD + HUSBAND + WIFE = SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE

Irregardless, please keep all of these in your prayers....

there are children involved in all of the marriages!!!

Okay....that's that about that for our Thursday prayer requests. Please keep each of these situations in your thoughts and prayers that God will bring comfort, guidance, peace and discernment....wherever it's needed!!

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

For Us Girls

I should have prayed this prayer years ago....

I seem to have each of these "problem areas" already!!

ha! ha!

Now I lay me Down to sleep.

I pray the Lord my shape to keep.

Please no wrinkles

Please no bags

And please lift my butt

Before it sags.

Please no age spots

Please no gray

And as for my belly,

Please take it away.

Please keep me healthy

Please keep me young,

And thank you Dear Lord

For all that you've done.

(author unknown)

Blessings,

P-R-I-D-E

Acrostics...remember how I love 'em?!?!?!

Well...here's one that I came up with for the word PRIDE:

Precious time wasted...

Relishing in my own self-centeredness…when…

In fact I can do absolutely nothing without...

Divine intervention-allowing our Heavenly Father help me get rid of…

Envy…jealousy…bitterness…..etc.!!

Several things I've read and heard lately have been on the subject of pride.....I'm not talking about the type of pride that we should take in ourselves...in our appearance....or being proud of our families, or our country, or those precious grandsons who are my "pride and joy".....I'm talking about the pride that one definition describes as: a high opinion of one's self-worth!!!

PRIDE....can rob you of enjoying your life

PRIDE.....can cause you to think more highly of yourself than you should

PRIDE.....can keep you from saying "I'm sorry"...when you really need to do just that to make things right with somebody else

PRIDE.....can keep you from admitting that you were wrong about something...and somebody else was right....and giving them credit

PRIDE....can totally ruin friendships

PRIDE....can make you miserable

PRIDE....can destroy a marriage

PRIDE....can hinder us from having a closer walk with Jesus

BECAUSE.....

....if we're too prideful....then we're going to give ourselves all the credit....instead of allowing Him to have the glory that He deserves!!!

If we're going to be PROUD....be PROUD of Jesus....of what He did for us when He came and bore our sins and died on the cross...so that we can LIVE!!!

Proverbs 29:23 (NLT)
Pride ends in humiliation, while humility brings honor.

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

Special Prayer Request

I just received a call from our daughter, Jess. She would like for all you prayer warriors to pray for her almost 4-year old nephew who is having surgery this morning. Please pray for him not to be nervous, and for very little pain, and quick healing. Also, please keep his Mommy and Daddy in your prayers...and the surgeon!!

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

Promises, promises

You know how sometimes you might read a verse of scripture.....but not really "READ" it...or...you might not get out of it what somebody else does!!!

The following verse was used as part of a message that I heard recently....and I really liked the points that were brought out in the verse....so much so, that I had to write them out in my Bible so I'd remember them later on

(yes I do make notes in my Bible....it's MINE.....and it helps me to remember better!!!)

Acts 18:10 (KJV)
For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee:

for I have much people in this city.

Here is how this verse was broken down:

For I am with thee.....this is the promise of God's presence

No man shall set on thee to hurt thee.....this is the promise of God's protection

For I have much people in this city.....this is the promise of God's people

This verse of scripture was actually the Lord speaking to Paul in a vision. Paul had arrived in Corinth (Acts 18:1)....and the city was so corrupt that he felt totally out of place. Even though Paul was out of his "comfort zone"....the Lord was bringing him HIS COMFORT!!! He promised Paul that He would stay with him....that He would protect him....and that there were other Christians in that city there for Him to be with.

Now...for what this verse means to me:

Even though this was the Lord speaking to Paul....it can still be applied to us today!!! Have you ever felt God's presence? I truly feel for those who have never been filled up with Him!!! Those who don't know, or understand....oh, what a blessing they're missing!!!

"For I have much people in this city".....simply means that we need to seek out Godly people to be around. Find a church where you feel comfortable worshipping....surround yourself with Godly people. If you work, seek out a fellow Christian to become friends with. There's a lot of truth in "birds of a feather flock together". So many times we work with, or in some other way are associated with people who have a totally different belief system than we do....or maybe they don't believe in God at all....their language is different than ours....they are so much more of this world than we are. Should we shun those people and take a "holier than thou" attitude? Definitely not....but....we also don't need to hang around them....because....often we feel like we can "change" them....when in fact so many times their habits and actions will rub off on us...instead of vice-versa. Continue to live as Godly a life as possible....and set an example for them to follow....and whether we think it's happening, or not....they're watching us!!

And, hopefully.....

some day.....

they'll want we we have!!!

They'll want JESUS, too!!!

Keep praying.....keep hoping.....keep trusting!!!

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!

Have you read my blog yet?

Oh...this hurts!! ha! ha!

Blessings,

Did you know?

I found this to be quite scary!!!

Blessings,

A girl's gotta do.....

.....what the Holy Spirit leads her to do!!!

I was talking to Pappy about how God had led me to go back and make amends for some situations in my life....when not a minute later, I read an e-mail I had received....which was a total confirmation of what I had just talked to him about.

Then....in two separate sermons...by two separate speakers...I heard it again....not in the same words, or terms....but....it was all about forgiveness....and letting go....letting go of so many things that the following mentions.

I love how God speaks to me....

how He corrects me....

because He loves me!!!

LETTING GO

by T. D Jakes

There are people who can walk away from you.

And hear me when I tell you this! When people can walk away from you: let them walk. I don't want you to try to talk another person into staying with you, loving you, calling you, caring about you, coming to see you, staying attached to you. When people can walk away from you let them walk.

Your destiny is never tied to anybody that left.

The Bible says, "They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. (I John 2:19)

People leave you because they are not joined to you.

And if they are not joined to you, you can't make them stay.

Let them go!!

And it doesn't mean that they are a bad person it just means that their part in the story is over. And you've got to know when people's part in your story is over so that you don't keep trying to raise the dead. You've got to know when it's dead. You've got to know when it's over.

Let them go!!

If you are holding on to something that doesn't belong to you and was never intended for your life, then you need to......

LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to past hurts and pains ......

LET IT GO!!!

If someone can't treat you right, love you back, and see your worth.....

LET IT GO!!!

If someone has angered you....

LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to some thoughts of evil and revenge.....

LET IT GO!!!

If you are involved in a wrong relationship or addiction......

LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to a job that no longer meets your needs or talents.....

LET IT GO!!!

If you have a bad attitude.....

LET IT GO!!!

If you keep judging others to make yourself feel better......

LET IT GO!!!

If you're stuck in the past and God is trying to take you to a new level in Him.......

LET IT GO!!!

If you are struggling with the healing of a broken relationship.....

LET IT GO!!!

If you keep trying to help someone who won't even try to help themselves.....

LET IT GO!!!

If you're feeling depressed and stressed ........

LET IT GO!!!

If there is a particular situation that you are so used to handling yourself and God is saying "take your hands off of it"....then you need to......

LET IT GO!!!

The Battle is the Lord's!!!

I bet by now....those of you who read my blog very much...think that I must be some kind of really horrible person....because I do tend to just lay my faults out there for all to see....but....I can't even begin to tell you how many of the above "let it go" spoke just to me....just about me!!! For the past few weeks, because of some things that have been happening in my life....and the lives of a lot of those close to me....I've found myself doing some "soul searching"....and truly having to let go of some past hurts....things that I have no control over, and have just used up too much valuable time worrying and fretting over!!!

I've got to let go of past hurts and pains....those who have angered me....addiction (food).....bad attitude.....judging others to make myself feel better (oh, this one was truly hard to admit... :(.....stuck in the past.....struggling with healing a broken relationship (not with Pappy!!!).....trying to help someone who won't help themselves (oh, the story I could tell here...but won't!!!).....depressed and stressed....taking my hands off of certain situations!!!

So...what all of this brings to my mind is this:

LET GO AND LET GOD!!!!

In His Most Precious Love....and with mine!!!