Excited expectancy

I am sooo excited to share that we had a very good checkup and HaSa is all about the Lord's timing of arrival!!! We are finished wrapping gifts, getting my FMLA papers completed before our snow day so that I will not be returning to school so that I can be with HaSa for the full FMLA regulations. I Have been sooo thrilled along with Kent and the girls excitement! We have a secret that we are anticipating HaSa to be here this week sometime. We'll see!!!

This last month has been a blessing we took our family pictures with a very dear friend who did an WONDERUL JOB!!! ;-)
Oh I love the laughing that has come into our home since last Friday the 19th of December, we found old family videos and laughed together, cried together from our laughter, and we have played games, wrapped gifts, and baked goodies and had parties attended. Now we all are just waiting patiently for our bundle of Joy to fit into our home and complete us! The cutest things have been said around here that we are all laughing together. ;-P !!!

Emily even has a cute little bet with two special teachers. They think HaSa is a boy and Emily is firm in a girl. So she has cookies on the line~~~ :-). Let's see . . . who is going to make and who is going to receive. Mya and Chaz even have their own little thing but theirs is based on arrival of HaSa. Again We shall see.


Sunday - I wanted to cry from getting to be "Mary" and do a special with HaSa - Thank You Abba, for I am truly excited with great expectancy to be blessed once again with a gift from Heaven!!! May you receive all the Glory and Praise! Thank you for your provisions my entire life for all of my children and for one more time to have been done unto me as you have blessed!

Amen and Amen! I too now have pondered many things in my heart with each life my womb has been blessed abundantly even with Jordan. May all of them; Mya, Tia, Faith, Emily & HaSa Love you deeper and richer than I do because you have allowed me to be the pioneer for them for Heavenly riches!

In Jesus Name We praise YOU!!!

Thanksgiving

Wow - Here it comes!!!! One of those days that make you go . . . Awwww family/friends!

Sunday was an incredible day to be so honest and speak and LAUGH - which I love and I didn't loose my bladder (Jen Wah, John B & Brett D ;-P) in the process even while carrying a child 8 months. We were able to just reflect, be serious and LAUGH, LAUGH, LAUGH!!!! It was Great! It has made me remember so many a Thanksgivings over my very, very short life.

Like the ones with Family (blood and spiritually) it is just so refreshing to reflect. The ones that stick out tonight are: The year of the Cornish Hens when Mya was just a wee babe - when we didn't have. Or how about the ones we have shared in many homes of our spiritual families who wrapped us with LOVE as a couple, a small family or now as a large family. One that we have LOVED was one that we made our (Kent & I's) first Bird Yum! Or the one that the girls still talk about because they were all able to remember is the one in our first purchased home -HERE. They still ask to make that same exact meal - YIKES and Tee Hee!!! I think it is because they remember the picture attempts. :-) Or the ones when Lesa and I were deep into talking cowgirl stuff and we (as a young couple with two wee ones) went out to her parents home to be with all of their family. They have known us deeply since 1988. Or the first one I had with the KLUNDTs and laughed so hard I did wet my britches and learned many new recipes to use with our family. I remember the ones growing up with my little Spanish/Mexican Family and ALWAYS having a stranger in the house but neither they or us knew that they were strangers that was just Little Gram'ma & Pompi's way. Oh how we had a "PLETHORA" of not only turkey and all the trimmings but the Frejoles, Fitheo, Spanish rice, munjuellos, torts, papas, pork Chile, sopapillas, biscuichitos, and the special Sparkling Cider for everyone, along with the sounds of pressure cookers, laughter, shewing of the children to "go play", and the many "mini children's tables" everywhere. And Lil' Gramma always wondering out loud "Joedi (Pompis' pet nickname) Did we forget anything ? - I know we did!!!" concern. The many others I could go on and on and on about with in our 21 years together with many of you since we wed. They are ALL very special! Last year . . . was in the freezing cold outdoors but the warmth of a very comfortable family atmosphere that made us appreciate FAMILY near and far once again! My heart strings have been woven with many of YOU in some way through these fast years and for that I am THANKFUL! Many of Thanksgivings have been imprinted on our hearts because in Ministry we often are here where ministry has brought us an now many of YOU are a part of our family - THANK YOU~!!!

As Mommy often told me, "Blood is thick" (spoken in Spanish) and through Jesus Christ it is even thicker! I know it is fast pace - but these are just "snap shots" of the WHY

I LOVE Thanksgivings and Christmas TIME!!! I have much to be Thankful. Jesus who called me, and died for me, and allowed my life to intersect with everyone of YOU over the past 40 + years. Some who are now with my precious Lord in Heaven and those I still have the opportunity to be with NOW and those still I have yet to meet - That is part of my THANKSGIVINGS!

Lord Willing . . . I will get to see you one more time before I go HOME to be in Heaven but if not; God Bless you all and Keep you - I am THANKFUL for YOU!!!!

Thought provoking

Interesting and thought provoking. I love what I do for a living however, this year it has been a struggle because it is all about perspectives. Oh . . . . Like . . . . the incredible reliving the past in a new set of soft souled shoes.

Let me explain. I remember fresh out of college and ready to turn the world upside down only for the AWESOME Lord of all creation to allow us to be put on a T I M E constraint on HIS clock of no time really. :-) 2 years of corresponding in written form, many phone calls and messages (a moment when cell phones where in suitcases and magnetic antennas to attach to your vehicles roof or trunk) left on answering machines, and continual waiting a call to come through our literal phone line to employ us for ministry. Then when the "call" did arrive when after anticipation and preparations were finalizing to go east. Perspiration & realization therefore drawn to our knees, we were granted the decision of going south instead - in faith to reside temporarily and intern a summer awaiting a vote to accept us full time in the fall 3 months later. During that early move Jehovah opened our womb and different prayers - the calling to be a "homemaker" one income family. Both moves were found in continual rooted faith supplication - PRAYER. The best calling we answered to both. Ministry and preparations for a family based on remaining home with the child who had been given from Heaven when it arrived knowing full well that HE would provide.

Now 17 1/2 years later . . . The wonderful blessing returns; the souls of my shoes, proverbially speaking, are a bit more worn with experience but the same joy of AWE! Many prayers, body aches literally ;-p, and the growth of new life granted once more leaves me in a joy of perplexity. May this child and I remain home together (once again for me) to answer what I believe to be a woman's highest calling and responsibility- THE RAISING OF A CHILD -?

Interesting and thought provoking. I was able to go over some fantastic curriculum preparation this week for a children's church program. the story . . . (drum roll please) . . . Genesis 18 - 19. Three very special visitors was part of the focus point. I was teaching due to a "change" in substitute teachers. All week preparing, analysing, reviewing, meditating and soaking (okay, with a bit of stress to be adequately prepared so they would remember the reality of GOD to apply to now only to have too much material and run out of time) only to have an Aha moment when it was all done. Although I am not laughing but joyously smiling, God is faithful in his promises. I know the story and so do you - he provided and blessed even when 'age' seemed "over the TOP" then. I bring this only to share that He is blessing and providing every breath that I take - while the baby growing, moving, kicking, hiccuping, stretching, etc., etc., etc., will be taken care of - and through the last six and one half months (the time when we were excitedly waken with the realization that our quiver would be full with one more ;-} little one) of intersession. The Lord has given once again - we thank him profusely and anticipate great things kingdomly speaking. We trust, we follow, we obey and I know without a shadow of doubt he is providing the means to get to raise yet once again this child while staying at home. :-)



Interesting and thought provoking - JOY.

Awed but not dismayed

"Awesome". I remember in the late 80's when a very dear couple; whom I admire their walks with Jesus Christ, spoke up and said the word "awesome" truly only belongs to GOD - The "I AM" (my input)- the Creator. I pondered that in my very young christian mind and asked for further explanation on our way to a mission in a very hot July.

To be Awed is truly a reverence that really is from the depths with in the marrow of my being and it does belong only to HIM, my Jehovah. I was so frustrated why the believers didn't rally and take a 'stand' but then after looking at Tia when she asked why does the "electoral votes out way what looks like the majority, Mom". I realized that now it was a time to talk to her about God's complete plan and he is yet in TOTAL CONTROL. We talked. Then after everyone turned in for the evening and I had reawakened - I pondered even further.

For example the control of how it is so easy to take the road that "seems" easy. How God is sovereign! "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit YOU will recognize them." (Matt. 13-16a) and "Even a child is known by his ACTIONS, by whether his conduct is PURE & RIGHT. Ears that hear and eyes that see - the LORD has made them both." (Proverbs 20:11-12) there are many things about His comfort that allows me not to be dismayed. And after early Tuesday morning I drew upon his promises. Especially since I have been in the book of Ezekiel with my daily reading (and -OUCH, Wow - very eye opening) seeing God's mighty hand. God doesn't look at the "outward" appearances as man does (nor the skin color). Praise Him for that. I say that very openly since I am a minority and not ashamed to just be HIS CHILD like many other wonderful "SAINTS" in my life all around the globe with every skin color he created!!!

So now I have a new president - elect to pray for fervently- since he is blind to TRUTH at the moment! As well as many others to come to Jesus Christ in a way that will allow the Harvest to be gathered fully during the next four years as God intends it to be. Like every where else in the Globe, where people are realizing the gospel message for the first time by the masses, God is in total control!!! This election not only effected us but the globe. Now God is AWESOME to open the opportunity we have to share the gospel through what lies ahead. Frustrated - yes. But only God is Omnipotent, Omniscient & Omnipresent and he is in complete control despite what seems different. Therefore only in Him can I be Awed but not dismayed. Reassured that he is always with his children in all circumstance. I know he knew about November 4 and the outcome to allow his children to become more focused on HIM and to know there is absolute TRUTH.

Hummmmm . . . .

How many of us look to our past of where America began and why we have been set apart?http://www.liberty.edu/media/1616/email/Chancellors.html Why do we as a nation look at our pocket book instead? Or to man? What happened? Where are we turning?

Aren't we supposed to look at that which is unseen? Hummmmm . . . .

A Day to remember

Today was such an encouraging day! Being pastor appreciation month has been encouraging through out. I have been amazed at some of the "Golden Apples" The Lord has given us to enjoy this month.

Cards, Encouraging words, meat, meals, hugs, chocolates, GC's, smiles, etc., etc., etc.,. Why does it touch me sooooo much? Because of serving the King of Kings for 20 years this past summer and this month I was able to reflect over all these years and I still have some cards, letters, gifts, pictures (AND SCRAPBOOKS) with many of YOUR heart strings connected to them!

From our first internship and ministry I still have special cards & picture from many of you tucked away and some of them are hidden with in my BIBLE and just this past week I have taken some of those out and reflected upon to warm my heart along with those we received this week. Today we had some great time reflecting with a family, laughing, sharing and being real - THAT is what ministry is all about. One note Kent & I read was very encouraging at a time that was needed the most. Satan is alive and a liar but God is the TRUTH that is AWESOME!
Kent also encouraged me just a couple of days ago with a song/video that he said he knew I would LOVE! He knows how much I have ALWAYS LOVED EYES and how fitting that an artist named Brandon Heath wrote "Give Me Your Eyes". It is so true How I beseech the Lord of Lords the "I AM" to allow me to always look into others eyes and to have HIS EYES for humanity.

I know that Kent and I were called into MINISTRY together and I believe that He called me when I was only a little girl by an "angel in disguise" HEBREWS 13:2 (my paraphrase) to follow him
with all my life. Not only do I give him my Eyes but my HEART that I may have His Heart and His Eyes to fulfill my calling to Him!

I have looked into many of your EYES and I know that GOD will do and is doing great things through you. He is calling YOU . . . Will you answer his call if you haven't already? Look into His eyes it is AMAZING to connect with him - BELIEVE ME!!! It is a road you'll never regret and an adventure you can never imagine that will effect you for all eternity. For today is "A DAY TO REMEMBER!"

Only One way

"He who guards his lips guards his life,but he who speaks rashly comes to ruin." Proverbs 13:3. Don't you wish that our candidates would keep this in mind. WE'RE DOOMED then aren't we!!!

My heart is so frustrated that we are so quick to be concerned with our economy, what we think about our leader and all his "errors" but where is the condition of our heart and soul compared to the "I AM", but what about our relationship with the Lord what is it truly like? I really believe with all my heart that we who claim to have a relationship with the Lord and Savior of the world need to truly be on our knees and beseeching HIM for everything we stand for. Because we will be having to make a stand that matters for all of eternity. I know I choose the road less traveled and I see it more each and every day of my short "misty" life but I will live here on earth as long as the good Lord wills. I will share the good news of Jesus Christ being the ONLY way to Heaven, despite that others think there are many different ways. There truly isn't "MANY WAYS" and if it costs me my very life than God be with me to fight to the end to take as many with me as possible to see the TRUTH sharing the depth of His love for all mankind, if they only by their free will choose to follow him. I heard him say, "Come, follow me!" and I am going to follow only him with every breath!

I know that I am one whom is very convicted to go before the thrown of the TRUE KING of KINGS every election year because I want a person who leans upon wisdom and discernment that truly matters. Absolute TRUTH - the word of GOD which is infallible and unmistakably INERRANT! How about you?

The Shack

Yikes and Hummmmm . . . .

My mind is still trying to comprehend and S - T - R - E -T - C -H with each thought. Very provoking for this little Latina mind :-/ Ha - Ha!!!

I do enjoy this book because I am also reading in Jeremiah currently and Hummmmm. Sometimes I feel like a Shack tucked deep in the Rockies, yet as free as the scene depicted. I can feel the wind, hear the bubbling brook or running river, feel the mist faintly upon my skin, and smell everything - refreshing and well not so comfortable to take.

What is your "Shack" and do you go to your "Papa"?

Fall & Harvest :-)

Have a great Day! Fall is upon us here in the Midwest (I know everywhere really) and the change of colors is just awesome! I miss the Rocky Mountains every year around this time but I will always enjoy where the Lord allows these eyes to see him and his wonders!

Wow it is always amazing to me what God does and how the season is continually changing! The seasons colors, the ages of time in every aspect of Life - His creation. I miss my dear friends who are miles away and I enjoy the ones I am able to be with now. I think of the girls and how they give me pleasure. I enjoy the moments my sweet love and I get to share with each passing moment to etch it upon my heart and my memory. I love the crisp cool air when it is brisk and yet I love it when I lift my chin and feel the faint breeze blow across my face and the other moments it blows my dark auburn hair around my face. Winter used to be my favorite season of all times because of growing up in the Rockies and LOVING SNOW however as time goes by I enjoy them all more each year. Always ready for the newness of each season as I live it and await the excitement of another day to breathe, the Lord willing, before return home to Heaven permanently.

This year 16 years ago I remember awaiting the elections of Nov and a special little girls taking her first steps, wow that was amazing and exciting and now her steps are taking her in many other directions. Where her future will take her, how to prepare and so forth. Who would have ever thought that 21 years ago Kent and I would be embarking on a fall with many new memories that would be so found?

Seasons of Fall; the rich colors of reds, oranges, yellows, golds, browns and faint splashes of green kindle in my heart the warmth of changes through the years and how new life will come. :-) Now because of my friends walk to submit her life last week. two others have decided to follow and be obedient to Christ and yield their lives because her obedience caused them to say - I too want Jesus Christ to be my Lord and Savior, I no longer want to wait. Three new lives on a day of a fall will turn over a new "leaf" by dying to themselves and become a new creation! I love IT!!!!! All in the middle of "HARVEST" season.

Remember, ". . . the Harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. . " (Mt 9:37 & Gospels) This year it has been a FULL harvest and for that I love seeing it in the newness that comes with FALL & HARVEST here in MO Town USA! Bring on the Harvest it warms my soul deeply and kindles the fresh breeze I LOVE!!!! :-)

Awed.

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by FAITH in the Son of God, who LOVED me and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the GRACE of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!" Gal 2:20-21

This week I watched a wonderful sister in Christ yield her life to Jesus in full submission to be immersed in Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior and it has made me think deeply that Christ is the KEY for everything especially when people let you down. :-( We can NOT lead others to Jesus when we are FAKE in any sense of the word. People will let us down but JESUS Christ will NEVER ever let us down and for that I am truly grateful. Christ needs to live in me and boy do I have a lot of surrendering to do as well as just serving.

Thank You Lord, Abba Father God because you are my everything, my life! I praise you for LOVING me so deeply and honestly!

Time

Time is so "quick". Last Friday I had a very unique experience and late Thursday evening it was a connection.

I'd been having dizzy spells lately and long story short; after two weeks went into the maternity ward and had some tests run. While there I was taken care of by two nurses; one named Jim and the other Helen. This was amazing because in the coarse of my nurse Jim and I talking about my health, I inquired of his family. Kent just smiled and then later after Kent left, I started putting some connections together, we both had four children he had four boys and We have (currently :-) at the temporary moment) four girls, we both knew Myas' boyfriends family due to Chaz and his youngest son, Jacob graduating together, Then when he asked what Kent does for a living we discovered he knew a very dear family from our church and had the highest respect for them- Arnold and Dorothy Hughes. He mentioned that he was excited that his youngest son Jacob had graduated Last may from High school while I was saying we coming upon that milestone for the first time in about one and a half years. My other connection was inquiring of the other nurse assigned to tag team with him to care for us. Helen - I remembered that name from the end of July 2001 :-( -Yes she was the same one. The nurse who was a pillar during a very dark and hard time for me - Helen cared for me when Jordan went directly went to heaven. Why do I bring up all of this? T - I - M - E. This very kind nurse Jim took very good care of HaSa and me, and since he shared about his love for his four boys and his JACOB who just graduated with Chaz I remember them both. So When Mya came downstairs with the news of one of Chaz's classmates passing and sharing with me a few small details - God brought back nurse Jim and my conversation. Chaz's classmates name was Jacob, but not the one Mya thought but another. However, while she kept saying how we needed to pray for that family I remembered more things Jim had shared and there were too many similarities. My heart dropped because that next morning during our family worship/devotion/prayer time, Mya shared with all of us this young man, then Kent said that at his meeting the night before another individual had asked for prayer for another boy. I asked Kent, "It wouldn't have been Arnold Hughes who asked for that prayer would it?" where Kent's reply was - "yes".

My heart was touched deeply. Because at the very time nurse Jim was taking care of some tests for HaSa and me his son was going through an accident. Time is so short. I remembered how Helen cared for me in 2001. I remembered the call we had March 16th 2006 praying that Mya would live. I remembered how sincere Jim was in saying that my health was excellent and HaSa was doing excellent giving comfort to the unknowns of health a week ago Friday 3 Oct. Time - So now after my daily reading in Thess. - I pray that the gentle nurse Jim and his family know they will see their Jacob again and that many are praying for them. I will always remember my only two encounter nurses from the maternity ward at Heartland in 2001 and now 2008. They were both there for me and now through TIME I pray the Lord's blessing even in the Hard time in a loss of a child. Nurse Jim and his family could use your prayers TODAY and the upcoming days so that through TIME God will comfort them.

T - I - M - E goes by so fast. Pray.

Convicted

Wow isn't it amazing when God brings something he wants done to you how one can avoid it possibly even run away from it? Yikes the last time I had a conviction like this one well . . . I learned a lot about myself!

Could you pray for me please. Thanks a ton!

Ana-Maria

In his hands

I know . . . I know TRUST and OBEY.

John said it best when he said, "He must increase and I must decrease." Also when Paul asked for his thorn to be removed and the Lord let him know that "His (Jesus Christs) grace is sufficient" because when we are weak we lean on him. I like to be fun loving, have a good time and a bit on the dizzy side but not literally ;-/. It is so weird to have a very healthy physical yet be dealing with dizziness. I can still laugh with and at my situation and tell people on the light side that "I always wanted to be blonder (no offense to those of you I LOVE WHO ARE!!) and dizzy." ;-p

But every time I am literally spinning and off a bit . . . I pray - thanking him for a reason to lean more fervently on him! The tests for almost four hours on Friday were a relief that HaSa and I are both healthy and for that I am truly THANKFUL. I can Praise HIM for two lives who lean fully on His promises never to leave or forsake us. I praise him that we have another moment to breathe and testify to His goodness in all circumstances. I cherish the thought that our hearts still beat strong for HIM literally and spiritually~!!!

We are all in HIS hands at ALL TIMES! Have a great moment with Him - for he LOVES you deeply.

For I will praise him with every step that I take and every breath available - for both of us while we rest our heads upon his chest while being held in his arms.

HaSa

Excitement is mounting! Eagerly awaiting a precious FACE!

With each movement and every time I hear the heartbeat I get excited to think of what this precious life will look like, be like, and wonder what God has "called" this child to do because he knows this baby like no other! I can hardly wait!

With every child it has had this profound AWE wonder for me! HaSa . . . I have been praying for you and your future walk with the Lord. That you will be Holy as He is HOLY! I know you will be!

HaSa, I love you deeply and we all are anticipating your arrival. PRAISE THE LORD~!!!!! :-)
Jeremiah 29:11-ff We can hardly wait for your smile~.

Why?

Lately my days are filled with a question that children usually ask, "Why? . . . Yes but - Why?"

Oh my bible reading has really convicted me lately between the what may and can seem like like mundane 'daily' routine. Is it barometric pressure changes in the seasons that effects everyone? Is it the economy? Is it the 'election 2008? Is it . . . (you fill in the blank)?

But as I have been reading I realize it is a condition of the heart trying so hard to be filled with everything but what truly matters. A life of Truth, through the GRACE and MERCY of Jesus Christ the ONLY WAY to truly LIVE! YIKES . . . did I say that? Yep I did.

Oh our home has been on kind of a roller coaster (of majority female emotions at every level -or us anyway) but I realize that it is because all of our walks with the Lord are maturing at different levels which can cause unnecessary impatience with those we love the dearest. (Boy is Satan alive and well, isn't he.) My heart breaks because every morning we sit down and have a family devotion but boy have we been not sincere from the heart. Emily asked my just tonight, "Mommy, what?" to which I asked "What do you mean Emily?" she then was quiet for a moment that seemed like an eternity and replied " - things are just different lately, Mommy. I just don't understand . . . " 'WHAT?' " She made me think. She said that she was sad that our family doesn't seem right. Why we don't act like we really do "Love Jesus this week - we are . . . well not showing LOVE and getting really unkind here at home." Well if that didn't scream OUCH!!! :-( I gave her a huge hug and said, "Emily, I Love You and everyone - Thanks for caring enough to share your concern. :-) Let go to bed - okay?" sending her back to bed a third time with another hug and kiss.

It is true. lately . . . we are being tested. WHY? Yes, but Why?

Because he, the Lord Jesus Christ loves us and is allowing us to each come to him on our own. You know . . . we are responsible to share the gospel in every aspect but after that we each are only responsible for our own walk with the Lord. So I have been realizing even more - I can't make my girls Love Jesus Christ because it is their choice to truly choose him. You know Sunday night a special young man made a statement, "are we really listening? You know what is our communication like with our relationships? Communication is the Key." As I sat and listened to him than after reflecting on listening to the word of God's truth this last week and listening to her simple evaluation this evening - We all make time for What really matters to us and we communicate clearly with those around that matter. Communication!!! Why? Because it is vitally important to us - That's why.

Why don't we give the Lord that importance? Really. I wonder why or why we don't. People can't seem to live with out our cell phones, IMing, or TEXTing CONTINUALLY but will forget to read the bible at huge segments at a time and then we wonder why we are so out of sorts (so to speak). We will never talk to friends or treat them like we would those we live with but is it okay to communicate frustration and not Love? Those who have been "In Love" . . . do you remember all the efforts made to talk to the one that made us "crazy" in every way and it made us make every attempt possible to keep that relationship going? It made our heart and adrenaline pump! Remember? So Why do we not live that way with the Lord, Jesus Christ? WHY?

Lately this relationship that I have been having has been making me change. Is it good? Yes. Is it easy? No. Why? Because next to him - there is great room for evaluation and true improvement - that makes me grumpy because I am seeing how selfish I truly am and through that discovery He shed some light that that has been my idolatry-(selfishness). YIKES.

"Why? Yes but Why?" Thanks again Emily for allowing me to evaluate after a tough two weeks that it is all about the LOVE of Jesus Christ being my focus for improvement. Time is too short not to accept that and to not communicate with him daily how much I really want to Know him because HE is the TRUTH, the WAY and the LIGHT and no one shall come to the Father accept through HIM! Because He LOVES ME and EVERYONE who is willing to FULLY SURRENDER TO HIM and not our self.

Yes - that is the WHY!!!

Where does time go?

Remembering when I was "much younger" I used to think "grown ups were weird and 'losing their minds' " when they made the comment, "Where does the time go?" or "Boy time sure does fly by" & "enjoy them now because before you know it, they're (your children) gone."

Now just a few years later and as a parent, it is so true and I giggle to think, "where did ALL that time Go?" because now, married to the only man I ever dated; who shared all of my "firsts" for (almost & very soon)21 years, & have four beautiful girls who's lives are flying by me and looking at my 'little women' with no regrets but wishing I could have MORE time with them all! I pray now more fervently then ever before on their behalf knowing it is time for them to soon fly solo. Life is a whirl wind and my deepest desire is that they really see the importance of "who they are in Jesus Christ"!

Mya. So quick to want to grow up and be totally independent in so many ways. Not realizing time is quickly flying by for her also. I pray for her so much differently - then even just this summer. Her walk to be stronger, to be a pillar or light house & that she continues to give God all the Glory in everything and not be sidetracked with the world's messages, such as, "why are you trying so hard to fit it, when you are meant to stand out?" from one of her favorite movies quotes. :-) She is definitely gifted with leadership abilities, and it will be very interesting to see how the Lord will allow her to be grown. :-) I know God will use her~and is using her. :-)

She is about ready to fly. Where did it go?

Tia. She has grown up very quickly also. She is her own person :-) and her personality stands on it's own - where she is TIA KLUNDT and known for being herself, not any ones, sibling or child. I like that about her. She to is independent and has done quite well with her new adjustments to the new & very large Sr. High school atmosphere. She works very hard at school and puts forth hard work to just BE. :-) She has also blossomed to a beautiful young lady also. :-)

Oh yes I pray for her much differently now. For her to remain faithful to her goals spiritually (especially since she just shared the depth of her desires this year - huge for her since she is VERY PRIVATE!) since she has let me into a very intimate part of her soul. :-). Her convictions are definitely her own -AWESOME - and her whit makes me laugh! It is great to see her back to her old self but with maturity. She is a Joy - just like her names sake & finally healed from a past circumstances, returned spiritually with depth and character.

Faith. Really breaking out of her shell is just begun but she is ready to start a new season of life's wonders with her personality. She definitely has spirit that is for sure. :-) She has a very large calling and gifts of evangelism and quite frankly - it will be intriguing to see what the Lord is going to do with that also. Her and her older sister are so much like one another that it is uncanny, yet where they are different - it's head spinning. Faith has a drive in some areas, that led correctly can be maybe unstoppable, unimaginable. She is on the verge of an explosion from childhood to growing up. Yikes ( in some ways) and "watch out and this could be interesting." :-) Her faith is deep and at times amazing to witness, she memorizes like her daddy and loves bible stories. Her personality sometimes is very 'grown up' and other times still raw - no need to rush it though.

Emily. :-) Very loving and every now and then ornery ;-D. She still has the biggest heart I've EVER seen (I've seen a heart like hers Once before in my entire life)! She definitely blows mine OUT OF THE WATER. I love her compassion beyond compare. Her little life is FULL. She can get under her sisters skin and sadly she is loosing that special age of innocence faster than I care to see - where did all the time go? (I ask again). She wrestles with herself lately much more than I care to experience to the point it makes me hurt. A little edgy maybe. Will she be the next mother Teresa? Will she go to a far off land, or near and minister in what way? Her hands and her heart are still very eager to LOVE in ways that truly humble me. So I pray for protection over her in that area.

Many times I realize that I am truly Blessed from Heaven with the lives given. I also know that they will be "Wonderful Women of Faith" and can hardly wait to see what the Lord will do with their lives. I love them more than words could truly express and I am ready like Hannah to give them to the LORD knowing they truly belong to him, they are given me to take care of for such a short time. Abba where has all the time gone that you, YAHWEH have given to me called "life".

I can tell you where all the time has gone. On bended knees, ever since we discovered of each of their conceptions, imploring that my children would "KNOW - Jesus Christ; the Way, the Truth and the Life, - much more intimately than I with everything possibly way available."

I pleaded that he would allow me to be the pioneer for them, to be the beginning of generations of blessings and released from my generational life without him! And when looking through many areas I ask myself . . . Where did all the time go? Prayer and petition for new life for the children granted to us to be pillars and followers of Jesus Christ - heirs for eternity. Thank you for the Time Father God, my Abba - Thank you!

It isn't always what it seems

You know after reading a lot of scripture this week it amazes me how we as "a people" gripe and complain. About almost everything. It broke and breaks my heart.

Why is it so easy to be negative? Why do we complain instead of REJOICE in Christ. It is amazing how much we use the tongue opposite of what the Lord Jesus Christ intended us to use it. Then . . . before we know it YIKES! "What you find on your heart, you find on your tongue, once it gets into your mind the journey's just begun." . . . unknown. That is so true. So I choose to try and read more and put into practice what I have learned from scripture. Boy do I have a long way to go but that is my goal and true desire.

Maybe we should try and have a "Polly Anna attitude" although it is idealistic it is not all that realistic. Ideally it is possibly though because in Christ "All things are possible." We should be lifting one another up like Paul mentioned in scripture. Don't we all really desire that truly? I do - NOT FLATTERY but true uplifting! You know there is some struggles and some suffering but doing good for the benefit of the Kingdom is the best thing ever! Many times we are so quick to tear one another down especially our brothers and sisters - because of our "pet peeves" maybe we should stop petting them so much and we won't get peeved!!! Are we forgetting that we should be living quite differently than the world? Aren't we just temporarily just passing through anyway? I'm a visitor hear on earth and my true desire is to be different than the rest of the world so that when I go home the glory is given all to him.

I like the quote from Henry Ford, "The man who says he CAN'T and the man that says he CAN are both correct~!" Therefore, "I CAN do all things through Jesus Christ who gives me strength" and that includes being positive. I have a lot to do starting NOW. :-) Have a great one!

I Know YOU CAN!!!! :-)

Too weird.

Today was a weird God incidence kind of day. Okay those who fellowship with us every Sunday need to know that Kent and I DID NOT compare notes about the heart! YIKES!!!

Okay Abba, I heard you but I really didn't know that you were going to have Kent talk even louder to me with everything about the Heart!

If that wasn't a message to "speak Lord for your servant (Ana-Maria Rosine Torrez de Klundt) IS LISTENING!!!" I was amazed when we were coming home today and discussing then I asked okay did you read my blog last night? When he said no he hasn't been able to read it for a few days; I know the Lord wants me to hear!

When was the last time something like that happened to you when you had multiple messages speaking to YOU and watch out?

Head or Heart

Lately the Lord has really challenged me and also reminded me of something from memory at the same time. What good does it do to have all the knowledge in the world but have a bad heart. There are three examples to illustrate that question.

No heart, A Whole heart & 1/2 a heart. Yes it is amazing to me. Last night after our precious daughter turned in for the night and let us know she was home safely, I was awakened shortly after all the lights were out. Tossing and turning I finally awoke. I started thinking about "hearts" of man. Scripture shares so much about the heart, which tends to be negative. Jeremiah 17 says "the heart is deceitful above all things who can fathom it" and the gospels reveal "where your heart is there your treasure will be also". Proverbs is loaded with wisdom. But when scripture refers in a positive manner it is connected to those close to Him. See on our own we are . . . well frankly put . . . FULL OF OURSELVES! Ouch! But as I read scripture more, I realize that by his grace I can choose to have NO HEART, 1/2 a HEART or a WHOLE HEART after His heart!!!! Is it hard? YES!!! Is it worth the work? YES!!! Is it worth the transplant? YES!!!

Go to the Old Testament and you'll see these hearts illustrated. Samuel is an text with amazing illustration. Saul - Yikes looks like he may have had a heart but really had NO HEART for God, Solomon almost had it, but gave it up for the pleasures of the world (just read Ecclesiastes) so he had 1/2 a heart for God then realized later in life it seemed meaningless at what he attempted. And then there is David - "the Man after Gods' own heart" just read I Sam. 13:14. not to mention some other men like Enoch and Elijah who were amazing~It is all in the God Breathed, inherent Holy Scripture.

When I place my devotion in him my heart is going through the fire and the dross is being scraped off each and every time. Oh it hurts yet it seems lighter. So much of me is being put through the healing of the transplant; so to speak, but when I read, meditate and try and apply what scripture reveals to me, I see I am his recipient of that open heart transplant, it I needed it. The one who died so that I may have His heart was really young, 33 to be exact. My chest beats with a new heart and the medication I take and will continue to have the privilege to take for the rest of my life in order to fully live is . . . 66 doses -Scripture, administered in small doses daily. I need it in order to live and when I don't, boy I can feel the effects because my body starts to try and reject this wonderfully strong, young and awesome heart. It took almost 18 years for this transplant to take place but now that I have this heart I have much to be Praiseworthy for.

One time when we were going through a questionable rough spot and humanly speaking -thinking we needed way more knowledge to amount to anything for living, a very dear brother, leader friend of ours told us that many "men" (mankind) have knowledge, pedigrees, etc. and still miss the target. Why? Because their hearts are hollow-empty of what truly matters. He than told us that he would choose a man with a heart for spiritual truths over a man with all the Knowledge in the world - any day. Now nearly 20 years later - I want to Thank this brother for his wisdom in what matters most - Truth & wisdom to be A man after God's own heart - Amazing and untouchable because of the presence of Jesus Christ who gave up his life for me and for YOU~!!!

So I ask you, Where is YOUR heart? Let him give you his because it is worth every once!

Born or made . . . I believe born.

• Okay, so I have one whom answered the question that I was inferring about. I gave my very brief answer and now I will try to articulate my reasoning. For a very long time I have truly contemplated this question.
• It has come to me after "a coke a cola with a friend" & reading many things in scripture that I believe that TRUE LEADERS are born. I know there are those out there that believe that leaders are made. Okay. Many great men and women believe that however, I believe they are born because not everyone is meant to be a leader and there are many examples of those who think they are or try to be but they didn't have the raw material to complete that task and it is exasperating.
• You know the old saying, "Too many Chiefs and not enough Indians?" Well are you where your supposed to be?
• Leaders. Yes there is the raw material and it is developed through nurturing, influence, motivation, and spurring on and direction. Leaders are those who have God given abilities. Oh just because one may be a "type A" personality doesn't make them a leader. Or even the most "quiet peaceful phlegmatic" doesn't mean they are NOT a Leader. People can have all the knowledge & education in the world or all the popularity but that still doesn't make them a leader! Loud doesn't mean leader. Passive doesn't mean NOT one either. Look at many individuals in scripture. Just because some are leading doesn't make them a true leader. Example: One leads a group of people because they may have all the pedigrees, scholastic abilities, knowledge and people around them however, there is no leadership taking place. The best leaders I have been around have incredible ability - given by God and it has developed them to be able to bring others along side themselves and reduplicate themselves in a fathomable fashion with the influence they have bestowed on aspiring leaders with raw materials. Leaders are also learners and servers! The have excellent mindedness, with the ability to motivate, formulate, and persevere. It is not an easy task and neither is a person leading with a 'wing it' mentality able to truly lead. Leaders are those who delegate diligently, and groom forth coming individuals with leadership abilities. True leaders have a high standard knowing when to push (with insight) and when to patiently wait. They have the bar of standards high but with a hand reaching down to assist upcoming leaders and followers. Leaders groom other leaders and allow them to learn sometimes when it is through a failure but with the ability to communicate perseverance and endurance. Leaders have focus, and a vision with the ability to cast that vision. They also have an ability to work through imperfections to make their surroundings better, sometime requiring patience and God's timing. They also look for the growth of those around them with out wanting to "impart how smart they art" or "belittling" another because they are "not like me". A leader utilizes others strengths for the whole to a vision of excellence "running a well oiled machine" and working through the growing pains for the benefit of vision for the whole.
• See, not everyone was meant to be a leader or has the ability to even be a leader. There are natural followers, and there are those naturally meant to be leaders who will develop their skills altogether; but in the wrong function one trying to lead or a leader not leading can be devastating as well as exhausting. Many of us have sat under those "want to be" leaders and it is deadly, frustrating and pointless. And we have also been with those whom we have been around who truly are leaders that in time are very well oiled, and running machines. Are there kinks? Sure. But excellence in its' best form is just that ~EXCELLENT~ and we all desire to be around that! Leaders lead and groom other leaders around them to be even better than themselves preparing to pass the baton on at it's proper time. So wherever the Lord is grooming you . . . do it with excellence! We all have "gifts" and "abilities" with in our character so live it to the fullest. Ask & seek him with ALL your heart and yield to him 100% and Watch out (you will FIND HIM)!!!
• It is okay where ever HE has called you and LIVE IT TO PLEASE The one and only true King to the FULLEST with what has been given you - it's okay! If you are a leader please LEAD and avail yourself fully to The Lord Jesus Christ.

Leadership . . .

I believe leaders are born.

Do you agree/disagree? It is okay to be honest. :-)

Leadership part 1

Survey Question. A great friend and I were discussing this so I'll comment this weekend after percentages come in. :-)

Are leaders born or created? Explain.

One of those Days

Have you ever had one of those days followed by another one of those days? I have recently been humbled by God's presence. You know the children's' story "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" by Judith Viorst, well that is what yesterday was Kind of like but it began very good for me, just not for a student. Everything just seemed to go "wrong" late to school, spilt breakfast, melt down after melt down until almost total shut down. :-( I got so frustrated because anything I tried to 'help out with' didn't help; it only made matters worse. "I" tried everything possible until The Spirit reminded me that I forgot the most important thing of all - 'Did you pray?' Yikes, not until the little reminder that He is the only one in total control every time. Good thing I had a beginning that was positive and for once it wasn't a regretful day for me to look back on with mistaken 'reactions of impatience'. The student - well - was only reacting to a long weekend and a bad Tuesday beginning. Then one of the girls had that same kind of day. Yikes. :-(

With much prayer, preparations, prayer and eagerness today was a different day. It just seems like things went so much better. Yes today was one of those days that makes you think, why was yesterday so bad really? Mind set - what was the focus? It is so important for me to keep my mind focused on the Lord and the most wonderful gift of the saving Grace of Jesus Christ. I was beat both days but I am glad he sustained and continues to sustain me with each and every "One of those Days" because one day it may be my last before I go home. Maybe just maybe it is time to remember that when one of those days rolls through it is another great opportunity to share the Love of Jesus Christ so that none would perish. We all need him as our Savior, some just haven't been given the gospel message of Jesus Christ to open his gift freely given to all who will take it.

Well, One of those days may end up being the best one yet and getting to share Jesus.

Red Neck Cookout :-)

Hey Ya'll, What has a gun, gills, legs, hooks, hunters and shells all have in common? They are all used for & in a red neck cookout. :-) We were invited to a fishfry/cookout tonight that ended up pretty interesting. When we arrived our host said we had been invited to a true Red Neck Cookout, had we ever been to one before? "No, what is that?" was our reply with a smile. Well we were going to have Bass, Catfish, Dove (freshly shot today) and frog legs along with some fix'ins. It was GRRRRReat! I liked it all, I wish it could be said of all the meat it "tastes like CHICKEN". The fish was great, the dove was seasoned and bacon wrapped, the frog legs -yummy actually (although I laughed really hard when they brought us over some to "try" because it was the lower half of a frog and I giggled at the sight). Fresh fruit, salads, corn bread, and taters along with many homemade icecream, pastries and desserts to melt your buds right off your tongue! Anyone leave hungry and you alone deserved to be "shot", for sure (just kidding) but it was an excellent time.

We laughed, shared stories of "bein' kids" and only the good Lord's protectin' us - (how any of us ever servived we wondered), enjoyed the outdoors, fellowship, the laughter of kids playin' and jumpin' on the trampoline, four wheelin', motor cycles, and a type of football toss, not to mention a hatchet toss target, all we would have needed was to have "granny and Jedd Clampit" roll by to invite us to their "cement pond". :-) The Red Neck Cookout ended up being a shot gun fun time while exposing our past memories and watching our children create their own! :-)

By the way - I loved my very first solo ride on a four wheeler with three others gals on three four wheelers on the dirt road while Emily giggled to share with her daddy that "Mommy drove her own four wheeler Daddy!!!! All by herself! ;-)" It was a great Labor Day (started 1882-83 in the state of New York). All Praise to God and all his creation which was an Out of this world country experience to add to our family's memories! Thanks to those of you we spent our 2008 Labor Day with Ya'll made us feel very welcome and we enjoyed our time with you - another memory with friends we can call family.

What was your Labor Day 1 September 2008 like? Hope you enjoyed your friends/family like we did today. :-)

Fall Fest - YEPPIE!!!

Yesterdays are fond! And "yesterday" was no different. Our Fall Fest was AWESOME. The family at RCC pulled together and gave with all they had and it showed with an over abundance of LOVE! I love it when that happens. Yes I was able to be "Ana crazy" - and did an obsticle course that was so amazingly fun (also funny to witness as I rolled over the huge 'hills')!!!

The vision was cast, we came together and lived the vision out. It was so rewarding to see how everyone pulled together from the backbone unseen to the visuals everyone worked together and shared the love of Jesus Christ to the community giving a family day for FREE to a world that always charges something because "there are no free lunches". Oh to reach out and serve was blessed all day. The gospel was shared in every way.

Advertisements with "no catch". smiles. laughter. meal. wagon pull ride. pony rides. blow up fun activites. children friendly duck pond, balloon darts, facepainting, dunk tank. Pie eating. World Renown Juggler and Gospel quartet brought in all with one come goal - Win - Build - Send for Jesus Christ! It was so refreshing to see all ages come together and smile hearing the message of the Gospel unashamedly and boldly. PRAISE HIM for he gave a picture perfect day. I loved it All!

But my favorite was when our line for the facepainting was very long and it was time to "close" temporarily to go to a main session. The last little boy was given the your the "last one" cut off, so to move along. When I happened to look up between children being painted and smiling I witnessed something wonderful. The "last one" let a few more children step in front of him so that they could get their faces painted while he was still the "last one" before closing. I could only smile and think and then pray for him, "Lord, Bless him because our desire was to give to this community out of Love be not charging one penny to any one. He gave your love be allowing others to come first - therefore bless him abundantly for his very unselfish attitude!" It made me make sure to smile, paint, and bless each little one that allowed me to paint their faces knowing that one little one "got it" and shared love to others also. For everyone who helped Fall Fest - Yeppie~!!! Good Job good and faithful servants - your hard work and Love showed.

Friends

Friends came over today and I loved being with them. 3 generations during this visit and it was sweet! OM goodness I actually forgot to take pictures!!! :-( They made me realize how grateful I am to many of you for your presence in my Life). You are NO MISTAKE! Your a masterpiece created by the CREATOR who blessed me with YOU!

Anyway I am so glad that my visit with my friends today was not like the friends I have been reading for my daily reading lately. Jobs' friends . . . wow were they harsh. I am reading in the New Living Translation and I am amazed at . . . well their forthright attitudes. It almost breaks my heart. Sure there are qualities they bring up about the Lord however, they also just show their human error.

I enjoy my friends. We laugh together, share one another's joys as well as burdens, some have been around to see my children born and others to be there when one went to be with the Lord, some shared practical jokes, as well as my shared prayers, and some have come to know the Lord Jesus Christ through our lives with one another. There are those whom I've known for many years and others whom have just entered my life and they all are important. Some know me quite well (YIKES ;-} ) and others whom are just getting to know me. Some have known me most of my life and see where I've come from ;-( before I knew Jesus and others who've known me after Jesus. Some have the joy of sharing in our yet new beginning again with "HaSa" through all these steps of my life I am grateful for my friends. I even married my dearest friend :-) (Love You B!) Friends - are family and Family are friends - They/YOU are a part of who I am - so Thank You~!

Faithful
Respectful
Itimate (In To Me U Shall See)
Everlasting
Near
Dependable
Sincere

All tuckered Out

Today was a full and HOT one! Literally it was so very Hot outside! The SJSD buildings all had to have had little ones and others sweating like crazy! ;-0

My student is a charmer and I love what I do. Other little ones are just now figuring out that we are with child :-)! That is a fun one! HaSa is starting to move like never before. Maybe my temp was a bit too warm - who knows! ;-p

The "babies" love that we are in the same building because they get a few little "perks" getting to come in the building with me and being "helpers". They will probably really enjoy it later when it gets below zero or close to the freezing temperatures - UGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now (literally) a storm is brewing in. Well . . . tonight is a family night and well . . . we are going to have a good time. Even though a bit tuckered out from a full week and heat.

Joy of "HaSa" and Girls

Well . . . here it is!

"As a mother comforts her CHILD, so will I comfort you;" Isaiah 66:13.

We are with one normal size child, all organs are healthy and we are excited! So You it is one precious gift and not two (although it would have been easier for a playmate :-) ).

Okay the last three mornings have been a huge BLESSING. We have a worship time and Devotional time before we all leave our separate ways. The wonderful thing about it is that the little girl whom I have been watching for the last 3 years went home and told her mom (whom we have been witnessing to) "We Sing and hear about Jesus Mommy!!!" and her mom told me about it when she dropped her off very early in the morning! :-) God is Good ALL THE TIME!!!

Well . . . My student is going to be work but I am looking forward to the year. I enjoy the teacher I work with (and greatly miss Adriana - my teacher last school term)! Both are great ladies to co work with!

"Love so Amazing, Love so Amazing . . . ." Jesus Messiah by Chris Tomlin ~ we sang that this morning and to hear the girls sing in harmony while Kent played the guitar was AMAZING and AWESOME!!! (I can hardly wait for HEAVEN!!!) Well have a Great morning!

Love is Amazing and can be used anywhere you go or do. You want to be LOVED don't you? So go ahead and share it and tell me what it did for you today. :-)

Okay . . . Twins or No Twins?!!!

Well, our sonogram revealed that we are going to KEEP the same Due Date: January 3, 2009. Also very Healthy in all the major organs - YES!!! About whether or not we are with TWINs or NO TWINs you will have the opportunity to discover our news through scripture. Here it is . . . Isaiah 66:13 (Kent's idea-we used NIV translation) :-) and No gender either. Although it was VERY TEMPTING . . . I closed my eyes and said "NO - I don't want to know" so we'll all have to wait until January 3 or around then. :-)

Blessings to you all!

Tell me what you discovered about our NEWS! :-)

Reflections

Good Morning!
What a Wonderful weekend. Excitement is real. I had some appointments with My Family this weekend and it was very well worth every minute. As Mya, Tia, Faith and Emily grow up I realize that I have been BLESSED! Ministry with Kent for the soon 21 years of Marriage :-) has been a ride never to be forgotten through every experience! Our family is growing all around us; immediate & spiritually. When we left our homes and become ONE we answered the call to ministry knowing it would be a LIFETIME experience of being "grafted in" with those we ministered with and to in every circumstance which is something I will continually reflect (over the years) and PRAISE the mighty King of Kings - knowing that life is precious! Our ministries have brought many growth spurts and many aches - all for the BEST of the Kingdom.

Everyone has a purpose for being a part of our lives and there are those yet to come still. Those from our past and present have made our soil of life rich through every circumstance weaved in our life's tapestry. Those yet to come we thank the Lord for their touch and thread in our lives because it will help complete our lives.

God is Good ALL the time and for that I sing Praise because in Jesus there is HOPE no matter the world's influence because He is TRUE to the end of this life I live. Thank you Jesus Christ for the sacrifice you have given so that I may live and share. I only pray that this year is a Harvest that is a huge bumper crop.

Live a Life for Him and there is true HOPE in every circumstance through JOY!

Hurry up and . . . WHAT?

Well . . . today was full of surprises! Yes, the new year has started for me and it was a JOY to be in the building that my children have been a part of for years. The only hard part is that I received a phone call message that needed attending but I had to hurry up and wait.

My doctor appointment I have been waiting for- for two months- to discover if we are having twins or not had been postponed until monday LATE afternoon. The funny thing is that it has allowed me to get to see Faith sing at the opening ceremony for our district! :-)

So Now waiting isn't always so bad - :-).

Faith - we will all be there to support you! Then Monday we get the exciting new of many "Firsts" for the family, the First day of school, our first sonogram, find out if we are going to have two or one. It is going to be exciting! Great things come from waiting just a few more days.

What? Wait? This time is okay for me. Although many family and friends are getting to have to wait with us and it is suspenseful for all. But I'll let you all know late night MONDAY.

1 . . . 2. . .Days to go

One day left and back to SJSD in a new location! Kind of . . . sort of . . . okay so I am in a new building as far as occupation however in the same building I've been highly active in for 9 school terms - I guess until today I really didn't realize how long that truly has been. I am totally thrilled to be in this building. I'll miss my past co workers but relationships last for a very long time - PRAISE THE LORD! It will be a new expericnce working at M.T. Elementary but rewarding to be in the building I've trusted for a very long time.

Two days left and . . . . drum roll we will finally get to "see" if we are plural or single. Meaning yes yesterday at a School appreciation breakfast at our church Kent announced to them that we may be with "2". Those who are on staff at NA School were in AWE, so was I but now there is a joy to share with our "family". I still don't really desire to "find out boy/girl" just if we are having a large baby, farther along baby (to see "HaSa's" face earlier), or two "Babies" (in the vanacular "Uncle Beck" uses :-) which I had a surprise hug from Him and "Auntie Joan" while I was in a meeting luncheon at 54th Street grill. Boy was I blind since they sat literally at the table RIGHT NEXT TO ME oops - I'm glad they can laugh that I am blind)!!! Anyway 2 days and I pray for a Healthy - 10 fingers and 10 Toes and a strong heart beat. Yep, that is what I excitedly anticipate in two mornings from now!

This is all as easy as 1 . . . 2 . . . 3. ". . . and if I knew ALL the MYSTERIES of the future and knew everything about everything, but didn't LOVE others, what good would I be? . . . If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn't LOVE others, I would be of no value whatsoever." I Corinthinans 12:2b-3 (NLT Daily reading). Boy - Love - still have a long way to LEARN about it but eagerly 1 . . . 2 . . .baby steps at a time and working on it continually. 1 . . . 2 . . . days to go but I'll live for TODAY because who knows what TOMORROW will bring, I may be HOME :-)!!!

How about it?!!!

I love this time of the seasons - OLYMPICS! This is the first time in a very long time that we haven't been able to witness the events of the world. Athletes - train, persevere, strain for a split Na no second against time to be the Gold, Silver or Bronze medalist! I love the stories! I love the stamina! I love the underdogs! I love the unusual making titles and buffeting their bodies!

How about it? Phelps! 8 Gold so far! Amazing. Oh and how about Dara Torres (love her name! :-) since it is very close to my Maiden name) a fifth time Olympian at the age of 41 and taking home medals! I love Swimming competitions - I truly enjoy the games! They press on straining towards the prize. I only wish they used that same platform to spread the Gospel toward the most AWESOME medal/ Crown ever - One that Last for all Eternity. How about it?

They could do it, so can we. . . what are we/ am I willing to strain and train to lay that Diadem at the feet of the KING - HOW ABOUT IT?!

Gearing up

A new day to begin. The house is quiet; everyone accept Faith and I are gone. While I've been catching up on my friends many have had their new babies and one more is getting ready.

Sarah - little boy, Joy - little boy, Susan - newborn little boy, I just found out Amy - little boy (sonogram results) who is nearing the end, gearing up to see his face. With all these little men - WOW maybe we'll have a little boy tooooooo! I don't know. But there are a few of us left (unless I discover another little blessing coming).

Okay so here is the wonderful news. - I shared with a friend, "I feel like the Elizabeth among all these young Mary's." I even have two family members getting ready to have little ones, My youngest (12 years younger) brother and his wife, and my neice. We are right in the middle of their babies. I'm gearing up to remain young by starting all over again. The joy of LIFE is incredible. All these boys and the four of us left I haven't heard yet. Gabriel (brother) believes it is a boy. Shannon-? Sasha - ? US - well . . . this baby feels like a leaper. Maybe "HaSa" will have a virtical jump like their daddy :-)!

All I do know is that our entire family is gearing up for the completion of our family. I've been Blessed seven times by God through Kent and the children and my quiver is full. For that I REJOICE! Now I am gearing up for how the Lord will take my family and use their feet for the gospel message - the only REAL TRUTH for life. Where will they all go? What is their "CALL"? Gearing up for their future has been rich - now I eagerly await the answers. I know He is calling them and I can hardly wait to see where their feet will take them all. 24 years after finally answering the Lord and gearing up for my unknown future - I've been BLESSED and look forward to walking to what lies ahead - a bountiful HARVEST!!!

Psalm 139 :-)

Endurance

Encouraging to Endure!

This morning was a day of endurance! I love this season of XC (cross country running)! It has been a pleasure for 5 years and today was no different. Running into old friends (parents & co workers) we were able to exercise while watching the timed mile for XC members. Everyone is very encouraging to one another. Barnabas in the making of 2008! Everyone ALWAYS encourages each other to "Keep it UP!!!" They are wonderful to one another a true "FAMILY" support sport! I LOVE IT! Because of this group over the last 5 years I have been encouraged yet once again. When going to a meet you'll never see just one team cheering only their team they cheer on EVERYONE to endure to the end! You see the most incredible things take place of helping one another. Teams, coaches, parents, fans all encouraging every runner to FINISH - there are NEVER any losers EVER! It is an endurance run that is against T - I - M - E and some day one of my dreams will take place because of what I have watched over all these years.

What are we to endure . . . to FINISH to the End? Maybe it's time to contemplate that and how we will achieve it.

Plan, process, proceed and endure - YOU CAN DO IT!!!

Changing of Seasons

My walk (which is usually with Kent at night) early this morning was a peaceful and ponder moment. As The humidity was slight and a cool breeze with perfect hues of every color of the coming change of seasons I had time to think. I had already eaten breakfast with Kent & the "babies" (which really aren't the 'BABIES' any longer) and read about Nehemiah's perseverance to rebuild the wall. Thus it gave inspiration to take an early morning walk.

Okay enough rambling. Changing of seasons is beginning in many ways ~ especially in our home. Mya and Tia are now both registered for Sr. High - YIKES! Kent has great vision rekindled after Sunday our mission team shared "sermon" and we visited with Ronnie and Darlene Epps until almost 4 p.m. over a meal. I am beginning a NEW position in a different elementary school. So the "babies" and I will all be in the same building at different grade levels. And last but definitely not last we will find out in a week and a half if we are carrying twins or not. :-) Mya is also going Through a new transition herself with Chaz leaving to college. He is a great guy who has been a spiritual pillar who encourages her, and whom we approve of :-) (He's a KEEPER!). Not only are we seeing the changing of seasons but so are our lives experiencing the changing of seasons!

The girls are growing up sooooo very quickly. Our ministry is "happening" and it is going through growing pains of change. Kent and I are "beginning from the beginning again" very soon. The "babies" will pass on their baton. Changing of Seasons . . . I do enjoy them and this morning it was refreshing just to ENJOY everything around me and to reflected and also cast a vision for what God has possibilities for futures.

It is time for us to update our family picture and to remember the joy of the changing of seasons of our lives. It really is but a mist. I just Thank the Lord for the Joys given from Heaven in creation and giving yet another moment to live them together. I have prayed for YEARS for these changing seasons in my life and those who are, and have been a part of it and those yet to come. Now as I reflect I am very thankful for each season, even the difficult ones because it has developed our character to be stronger in HIM!

Refreshed

Wow . . . did I ever sleep soundly. There is so much to PRAISE this morning!!! A new day to celebrate life in every way. Psalm 32: 8-ff; "The Lord says, I will guide you along the BEST pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Do not be like the senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control. Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the Lord. So REJOICE in the LORD and be glad, all you who obey HIM! Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!"

After a good nights rest one feels refreshed, and that is how I feel. A new day to live for him and give it everything to glorify His name. Whom will I see this day? How will I be for Him today? When I surrender everything to him he is my hiding place and he is the one who protects me from touble. Thank you Lord for surrounding me with songs of VICTORY!

Are you refreshed today? How so? If not what will it take to get there? Maybe just stop, ponder and start over again then you will be able to Jump into HIS refreshing waters and have some great laughter in Him reguardless the outcome! Go ahead Jump in and be REFRESHED!

It is soooooo worth living for him! Isn't it worth a try? Share your refreshment with others and maybe they'll just "jump in and be refreshed with you! It is so fun to share life together even thru situations of all kinds to help each other through and experience true JOY!

Life has been good to celebrate each moment, even when a tide may be just rolling in! Go ahead take the Leap of Faith and be truly REFRESHED each and every day - you have nothing to loose!!!