Better is One Day . . . . . . . .

Purty as a . . .

2012-01-27T21:17:00.003-06:00

All the fun of going to College brings out the REAL YOU.

Doesn't it?

Well Golly, Your as purty as a pick ture!

Like a 3-D er, Egh!

Naw just Rooomies havin' some FUN!

51 days

2012-01-26T18:11:00.002-06:00

There are 51 days and the Lord is blessing us with a wonderful addition which really is a multiplication.

I Love the moment of the soon to be the Present which will be a PRESENT to our family!

This moment is precious!

Surprised! YEP she sure is!!!!

2012-01-16T19:22:00.010-06:00

Daughter Surprise Weekend

Successful

She never knew.

We worked out all the details:

Fiance: CHECK

Responsibilities cleared: DOUBLE CHECK

Coaches: CHECK

Invitations: CHECK

Set Up: CHECK

OCC B-Ball Game Location: CHECK

Family Ready: CHECK

Plan of attack: CHECK

Shhhh, here we go.

"SURPRISE!"

Personal surprise

Now . . . . Off to catch a bite (CHIPOTLE) & set up for next surprise

SURPRISE (number two!)

The Tea Set from her Great, Great Grandmother,

Cake from Anna R. and "Jingle Juice" from Cynthia's recipe;

made from Mentorship Sisters

Surprise (number three)

Her LOOK from another special sister: Amy P. Mark Kay

Who says Friday the thirteenth is bad luck? For one VERY SPECIAL PRINCESS and FOUR OTHER PRINCESSES it was FULL OF BLESSINGS! Giving and watching the RECEIVING!

Off we went to the game in Omaha, NE (Fri. 13 January 2012) to see her game. To have a fun filled weekend of surprises! It was so worth every effort. We so enjoyed the moments of the thrill of anticipation and SHOCK! What a thrill! She never knew! She LOVED it so much it became one of her status remarks on Facebook ~ "BEST DAY EVER!"

FANTABULOUS WEEKEND!!!

More? How?

2012-01-13T00:03:00.004-06:00

Before

12-13ish- 2008

December 24, 2011

Three Years Later

Same Month

Then there were MORE

12-28-2011

After

December 24, 2011

More said? No.

Just January JOY reflections past

all in 2011!

Today 65

2012-01-12T20:28:00.002-06:00

An amazing wonderful Joy is the JOY of how fast time really does fly by.

I am so grateful for the the opportunity of sixty five wonderful days and he is going to be walking our little girl down the isle into the arms of another to care for her from that day forward.

We are so deeply moved for this moment!

The desire of my heart

2012-01-11T17:09:00.009-06:00

When I met him, and his family I was so excited because I wanted a family like his.

BIG, LOVING and ONE.

I am still thankful for that desire.

He has a great heart,

as the Lord has allowed us to be stretched and He given us a wonderful family.

I am so Thankful for the man of my heart, my first True Love

and the children we have been blessed to grow in memories

And for the Joy they create!

I praise the Lord for JRP & L;

the way they love the Lord and our princess.

I am so thankful for so much,

how over all these years we have become very close.

The Joy of our family is a gift we cherish.

Philippians says:

Rejoice in the Lord Always and again I say REJOICE!

All I wanted for CHRISTMAS

2012-01-10T18:51:00.002-06:00

Well . . . I GOT IT!

THE KING brings us together!

2012-01-09T17:32:00.007-06:00

Who would of thought that driving up to OCC one fall

would brings these five princess to meet & reveal how our

first Son-In-Love from

Ozark Christian College

2011

The joys of a full quiver full + OUR SON!!!

2012-01-08T19:52:00.005-06:00

Our JOYFUL QUIVER!

"Children are a heritage from the LORD,
offspring a reward from him.
⁴ Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
are children born in one’s youth.
⁵ Blessed is the man
whose quiver is full of them.
They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their opponents in court." Psalm 127: 3-ff

Copy right : Nova Hughes

May the lord continue to Bless You as he continues to bless us.

New, new or new

2012-01-07T18:03:00.003-06:00

So many NEW that makes my heart and voice sing "WHEW!!!" So much "To Do" and not a lot of time to DO IT!

But what a JOY to be able to get to do! All the joys of so many celebrations and Joys for 2012!

What . . . how many

2012-01-06T20:35:00.012-06:00

Christmas 2011 with Her family as "FAMILY"!

Dreaming of their Wedding Day - Engagement Photos

Copy Rights: Beauty of Grace by Jessica Cash

Fall 2011

Wow how time flies! We are on the eve of 70 days left before we inherit out Son-In-Love for LIFE! Our first SON!!!! It is so close! I am just as excited for that as I was for the joy of our first born to arrive and see that B E A U TIFUL FACE!!!! YES!!!!

Philippians 4:8

Where it all began Early Spring 2011 with the poser fun!

unedited and full of fun

One of these is NOT like the others

We're thrilled to be getting a brother!

"Awww Jordy and HR!!"

71 Days it is HERE!

We are putting leg work together with the wonderful family she is gaining at the same time!

Thank YOU ABBA, FATHER, GOD!!!!!

and Thank You R and P for his heart grown to mature as a Man of God!

True Joy

2012-01-05T18:29:00.005-06:00

Goodness Gracious God is GREAT!!!!

So many times there is so much to be grateful for! In our western culture I still cling to the mighty hand of God's outstretched hand! One thing that is really bothering me lately is the fact that there are so many diseases. The one I HATE IS CANCER!!!! I ABSOLUTELY HATE IT!!!

It is a dividing rod in so many ways and now I have heard of two possibilities of prescious people who have been going through it's vile venom!

I realize that God is in control of life. I know he is more than gracious! I believe he is still soverign and I know that he is the comfort of all comfort. I know so many times I take for granted the health given unto me. I rest in his arms and through some troubling news once again of this wicked aliment with a dear loved one, I will continue to lay my head in HIS LAP and pray, pray, pray. I LOVE YOU Abba, Father, MY GOD, Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit and in you I will TRUST and BELIEVE even more in YOU

Psalm 139 You have shown me your ever loving arms and the way that you are in control! Thank You Abba, Thank You!

Four . . . no not golf

2012-01-04T16:38:00.002-06:00

Remembering that "Four" is a golf term and we had four daughters for 10 years. Then the Lord blessed us with a wonderful package during a wonderful year working in the school district with amazing co workers that I am still very close to and will ALWAYS Cherish! Matter of fact I am currently caring for the One I had been praying for an open womb!

Four teachers since that time have had precious children. Ang, Julia, Adriana and now Shelly. Yup we all worked together in the same wing. We laughed a lot, started a book club, had a prayer club, and had the Lord Bless all our wombs with children. Although I was teased for my matured life producing once again and now the last isn't all that far removed from having hers near the same wonder years. ;-)

Four more Son-In-Loves being prayed over to be answered just like the ONE we are gaining soon, yes VERY SOON! ;-)

Four - Kent is the eldest of four and I knew I wanted four or more because of them.

Four - My Mommy has four sisters. Just like my girls have Four SISTERS.

Four - One of the Lord's significant Numbers! AMEN!!!

Philippians 4 is loaded with words of WONDERFUL NEWS! Well for that matter sixty-six books of the BIBLE have many ways to celebrate "four".

I am living the years in fours! Teee heeee!!!!

Kent is double fours! Hahahaha

Wow can you believe it?

2012-01-03T21:34:00.003-06:00

There is so much to complete

Yet there really is plenty of time!

There are greater things at stake than "things"

A walk that is eternal with the ONE and ONLY SAVIOR

Are you WILLING?

I know that life is really short

so today I hand over every breath in PRAISE

of the one who continues to allow me to take another one.

Three days into the new year and praising him that

he allowed me to come into HIS PRESENCE as his PRESENT to all who

will follow. Do you want that same gift?

Here I am on the precept of knowing that we are getting ready to experience

our first wedding and our first Son and our first family dynamics changing.

For that I will sing Praise

knowing that he KNEW it would take place.

I believe Jesus Christ is the ONLY way to get to heaven.

I believe that Jesus Christ came so that we may live.

I believe that He is the Savior of the World.

I BELIEVE in Abba, Father, God created the world in SEVEN days.

I Believe in the Holy WORD of God, THE BIBLE to be absolute TRUTH.

I Believe He came and is coming again.

I Believe He is the I AM.

I Believe that because of his GRACE and MERCY we have the most wonderful gift right at our disposal, if we choose to FOLLOW HIM!

I Believe there is Heaven and Hell.

I Believe that scripture is God Breathed. It is inherent. IT IS available to EVERYONE though not everyone will choose to follow him.

Won't you come with me to church? Won't you accept the gift of eternal life? I so desperately want to know that you will be in Heaven with me.

Love the Lord your God with ALL YOUR HEART, ALL YOUR SOUL, ALL YOUR MIND and ALL YOUR STRENGTH. And LOVE your neighbor as yourself!

Well . . . what do you believe? A lie or the ABSOLUTE TRUTH?

The joy of Family!

2012-01-02T16:49:00.003-06:00

It is just a little treat from us to you!

New Year NO RESOLUTIONS

2012-01-01T15:33:00.007-06:00

There is only Praise for this new year! There is FOUR NEW CELEBRATIONS taking place under our "family roof" in 2012 and we sing praises to the LORD!

Philippians 4:19

I have grown to Love Family More because of the tragedy of separation. I have grown to learn the need for me to forgive more than I will ever understand. I have learned JESUS is all that is worthy of Love, regardless and with out expecting anything in return. I've learned the joy of receiving the gift of a Son-In-Love and many answered prayers of and for him, his parents, his sibling, and his grandparents over the course of twenty one years specifically! Knowing and believing he is answering the prayers of four others as well!

I've learned that absolute truth has high costs. 2011 has been amazing and hard. It was also realized due to sadness one year and heart the past two Christmases there were no letters/card/pictures taken and sent out so . . . This year it will be NEW YEARS CARDS to those I have current addresses for.

I have learned to say, "I am sorry, I was wrong, will you forgive me and I LOVE YOU much much more frequently!" and I have also learned the beauty of life and how short it really is. I have learned that the Lord is working on my heart more and more everyday. Although the lessons learned have been stretching, HE is continually teaching me to look for and pray for the good that there is in people. HE is their Savior, not me. So this new year of 2012 I just give him my life. I know that I am not perfect and have never claimed to be, I am a sinner in need of a Savior and that I can ALWAYS PRAY no matter what or who tries to dictates differently. For His is the KING of Kings and the LORD of Lords. He is the I AM. He is Jehovah Jirah. HE IS THE SAVIOR of the WORLD! I Believe in HIM and will continue to LOVE HIM, and FOLLOW HIM.

This is a NEW YEAR!

But MY HEART IS HIS and will continue to be HIS.

I still pray for you, your health and your futures. I will continue to pray for each and everyone of you because . . . I LOVE YOU and I WILL ALWAYS CARE! For my immediate loved ones ~ ALL IN COLORADO, ALL IN ILLINOIS, ALL IN ARIZONA, ALL IN IOWA, ALL IN MISSOURI (yes to OUR IMMEDIATE FAMILY) I LOVE YOU!

May He be with everyone of YOU!

Philippians 4:19

Jeremiah 33:3

Please make yourself comfortable

2011-12-29T18:22:00.001-06:00

The Valet very Pretty and a Lady, Opened the door and ushered the unassuming couple in. Then It all began with the friendly greeting,"Welcome to _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Bistro! The wait is going to be just a little while, Please make yourself comfortable, have a seat and enjoy a short film for your entertainment." The ambiance of the atmosphere absolutely soothing and breath taking, they smiled, wondered and gentle sat down.

Their seating very calming and comfortable beyond compare. The Christmas decor, gentle to the eyes and the music soft, a "KENNY G. - White Christmas, in the background" sang out to them while the twinkle in his eyes as they gazed at one another spoke "surprise" because neither of them knew exactly "who" was surprising who. (sigh) Both of them taken off guard, but drifted into a dream.

The aroma's tantalizing and teasing them of what lay ahead. The Christmas lights on the tree glimmered, sparkled and almost whispered - began singing. The viewing entertainment a Christmas classic, from their past.

The Hostess Very striking to the eye, very pleasant and warm to the couple. Very professional yet welcoming. Her voice soft. The second, a beautiful server, asked if the couple would like anything while they waited. The film drew them away. They held hands gently, their eyes caught one another, and they smiled. The savory seasons wafted about the Bistro. The comfy seating relaxed their tense muscles and the staff eased their minds. The Hostess took them back to their elegant fine table laced in Red and Cream and an appeasing candle flame drew them in to a subdued warmth. As they were seated off to the tranquilized romantic corner, they both melted in one an others gaze. The couples smiles teased one another as they both grinned and locked their eyes on one another passing through the years of time spent together. As they both gazed through the menu a gentle tear escaped her eye, then every so slowly rolled trying to hide quickly from the staff.

His eyes gave her chills of joy knowing they were together as he walked her to her seat and gently guided her to the table. His saunter still taking her breath away as he took his chair. The moment to dulcify the evening and their souls reached a moment of speechless wonder - joined through True Love, they know commitment to one another is real. So real they almost forgot those about them. The first waitresses came, took the drink orders and floated away with a very inviting grin. The curly amber haired server smiled as the soft banged brunette server worked as one with her almost as if they were one. Quickly they brought the chilled Caesar dinner salad and steamy cheesy garlic bread.

They couple of twenty four years union in marriage became one mind, one heart, one Love. The entire staff at "The _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Bistro" mitigated the worries of the world. Much like one slipping into a Calgon Bath. He looked up, caught her gaze and they both cried. The Steamy Homemade House Lasagna served with care; Complements to the Chef, as his appearance to offer his Finest Red and White "Wine" (Sparkling ;-) Grape style). Permissimo!!! Their mouths watered with every bite as they reminisced every memory past and now the one lived as a wonderful "Present"!

The last lovely server brought A Vanilla dessert speckled with Chocolate treats and the Chef put a finalizing touch with a "Chocolate Ritz" covered treat! Perfect! The evening absolutely PERFECT.

Then it happened. The cutest wee little server presented him with a grin, walked over to her and gave her a gift. "Fank You for coming! This is for YOU!" . .. "CAN I HEP YOU?!!" We all smiled and then we opened the gifts after our dessert.

Happy Twenty fourth Anniversary!!!

Love,

Valet/Dessert Server ~Mya

Hostess/ ~Tia

Server/order ~ Emily

Server/ ~ Hot meal Faith

Chef/ ~ Jordan (Son -In - Love)

Server/ Gift bearer ~ Hadassah

"Wine" ~ Sparkling Grape Juice ;-)

The Finest Bistro In History!

2011-12-29T17:03:00.005-06:00

A Peek - a - Boo Into Our Memory of a Lifetime:

Sneaky, Sneaky - Shopping groceries, gifts, "fake shopping" to detour, doc appointments to delay, friends in Mall delay unexpected but warmly accepted!

Here is a peak! Here are the pics

Merry Christmas

2011-12-26T09:09:00.003-06:00

I just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!

Okay so there is so much to share and so much to be excited about. The wild thing is that we didn't get Christmas cards out this year. So be looking for them to come after this week since we have a moment to be thankful and celebrate with our entire family here very soon.

The girls picture will be uploaded soon. ;0)

Love always, our family!

The shepherd

2011-12-17T23:34:00.004-06:00

There is a shepherd who means the world to me.

He anoints my head with oil when necessary

His staff comforts me

His hand guides me

His voice soothes me

His love fulfills me

His patience astounds me

His discipline completes me

His eyes melt me

His feet are quick to defend me

His staff keeps me from harm

There is a shepherd that loves me

His words go noticed

His arms surround me

His leading stretches me

He is the only voice I know I can ALWAYS trust

He carries me when I hurt

He holds me when I am afriad

He shields me from evil

He looks out for my well being

He is worth dying for

for he risks it all on my behalf

His love is unending

His ways are becoming my ways

I love this shepherd with all that I am

He fills me with joy

He holds me together

I call him - Jehovah Jirah -

The LORD, Jesus Christ, The Holy Spirit your are my great shepherd, I shall not or need not want!

UNIMAGINABLE upon the TWELFTH DAYs BEFORE CHRISTMAS

2011-12-13T20:43:00.004-06:00

The soil to those who are Khmer is called home. For those who step into their shoes . . . life usually is NEVER the same. From expecting up to the "potential" of 150 children, receiving a phone call at the FREEDOM SALON that we needed to come soon because the children were waiting. We stepped into about 350 possibly 400 children who filled the alley leading to the RAPHA HOUSE KIDS CLUB location. WOW!!! Amazing. We now sponsor _._. in Brown top.

As it was time to get the day started, David one of the Social Workers, and "T", gave the word and IMMEDIATELY all - YES ALL THE CHILDREN - listened and got into lines. I was so amazed at their attention and Obedience that I tried to get a picture off as they were forming their lines. However, by the time I did they were already beginning their day in full order!
When we were all dismissed I was humbled to get to talk with one of many but a very SPECIAL woman named "_". This is their home property where her husband, she and her children make a significant difference in their Islamic saturated area to share the LOVE of Jesus Christ! I was imploring and inquiring her to find out of the precious girl on my right side's name. She melted my heart. From the moment she came over to me when we first arrived until we left late that night. I knew that the Lord, through the Holy Spirit was prompting to take a huge step of faith to sponsor and older child.
Not until later and having someone (the girl in the white) go and find her and bring her back so that we could take pictures together. I found out that she was NOT sponsored. She Was the First one I knew and I prayed for the Lord to lead to just one more to sponsor and it was the girl from with in my random pictures that is pictured in first photo. This sponsor ship means, meals, a uniform to go to school, and the ability to come to Kids Club and not be at a very huge risk to be trafficked and exploited! The smile of the girl when she realized the reason for "finding" her was to let her know that she was now a sponsored child. Her literal sister happened to be the one who went to find her and bring her back. They both hung around calling me "Mum" and telling me I LOVE YOU - repeatedly holding my arms, hands, and hugging me until we literally left that night!

Now here is my Challenge to YOU . . .

TODAY

There are TWELVE Days Left BEFORE CHRISTMAS.

On the left side of the Picture, which Randy Wheeler took the week before we arrived, are

the children who are NOT SPONSORED. They received something to show that they to

are valued, while the ones with the back packs are the ones who are already sponsored.

Amazingly since our return in Late October they went from having around 140 sponsorships to have right now today 297 sponsored children.

So they are thrilled to say the desire is to "find" just three more to have 300 BEFORE Christmas.

IN THE TWELVE DAYS BEFORE CHRISTMAS

Can we together sponsor 53 children and exceed 300?

Can we think "OUT OF THE BOX" and

IMAGINE the UNIMAGINABLE?!!!

Ephesians 3:20 - Well What do WE THINK?

Are WE up to the CHALLENGE?

Here is the quote from the Wheelers - the RAPHA HOUSE KIDS CLUB

Wall Photos

The haves - and the have nots. The kids on the right are a small portion of the "sponsored" kids with their nice backpacks filled with school supplies and uniforms. The kids on the left are the kids not yet sponsored and their bags with a few pencils and comic books. My heart breaks for them. They were happy to get their goodies but I could see some of them looking longingly at the other kids and wishing they could go to school as well. In a little over a year we've managed to find sponsors for 148 children. There were twice that many today who are waiting. Please pray that they'll all be sponsored soon.

By: Rapha House Kids Club

Birthday wishes

2011-12-10T23:30:00.005-06:00

"But the LORD said to Samuel, 'Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things human beings look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the HEART!" I Samuel 16:7

The amazing walk of one of our Princesses is so precious! I look at her and her smile warms a room. She has always had a knack for memorization and a love for puzzles. But her heart is huge. Every day not matter what she always gives warm fuzzies by earnestly seeking a genuine love to hear about the families day. Every meal we sit together, and after we serve out and after our prayer time, she smiles and ALWAYS asks, "So, how was your day _____?" while she sits and LISTENS intently. If by chance we let down our proverbial "hair" she tries to move on and make a smooth and positive transition.

She has beautiful curly hair that everyone always asks, "Is that naturally curly?" And not until last year did she begin to appreciate it. I believe when the commercials came out with Troy Polamalu and individuals shared their like of her brown curly locks which to them they admired, we enjoyed the moment since we hadn't seen them yet, then we all had our laughs when we did.

Her laugh . . . is contagious! Her joy is fun! Her heart is amazing! I always try to make each Princess know that they are my LOVE! MY FAVORITE DAUGHTER (and we put in our special family insert phrase that we ALL HEAR and LOVE to KNOW in our HOME) and it makes them realize that They are LOVED DEARLY because they are UNIQUE and they ARE A MASTERPIECE!

So Here is to sweet Sweet PRINCESS - Happy HAPPY BIRTHDAY to YOU!!! YOU WERE RIGHT ON TIME! On your first Christmas Day, when you were only days old; Nana & Papa LOVED ON YOU with such tender grandmotherly and grandpa Love and Care! Your Sisters and Brazilian Sister were overjoyed at the gift of your life as well! Daddy and I couldn't have been more excited for you. For when we found out you were a part of our LIFE, I SCREAMED with such excitement that the nurse and doctor inquired, "Oh . . . Is this your first child?" To which I replied, "No, this baby is our third!" and they smiled then both said, "We don't think we have ever seen some one THAT EXCITED for their third baby! CONGRATULATIONS!!!" To which I sang and cried all the way home, so excited to share the News with your daddy (we didn't have a cell phone back then) ;0) since I was going in for another "possibility" only to discover the reason it was taking place was because we were going to be seeing your wonderful face due on our TENTH YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!!

Here you are ~ Wonderful and so caring. Never change Princess -NEVER, and keep remembering to "SHINE FOR JESUS!!"

Christmas broken aching heart

2011-12-09T23:11:00.003-06:00

Hi Sister 1,2,&3,

I received this message about your sponsored girls:

_ _ _, _ _ _, and _ _ _ are sisters. This family very poor, these kids are help family to do some work to make money. They don’t have house they live at hospital the place that they can live for free. However this family parent don’t have work. They can do what people asking them to do, by laundry, take care baby for other family, this work not make much money. And at night time or day time without school all this kid do recycle stuff not good for them to walk around and do that but this time we was talking with family asking them we may can help more rice and food but we don’t want all these 3 girls do recycle because not safe. However this good: study hard, been good at school. Come to kid’s club every time and she learn how to dance at Christmas time too.

Blessings,

This (above) was the letter response i recently received about the girl I just recently sponsored and her sisters (literally). Thank You Abba, Father-God for bringing this to my attention. I Love You "C" for sharing with me and the recently sponsored sisters care providers, Sincerely - from the bottom of my aching heart.

Wow - Do You Hear the what of I am hearing?

2011-12-07T12:27:00.007-06:00

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more that all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, " -NIV or "God can do anything, you know - far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your WILDEST DREAMS! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us." The Message : Ephesians 3:20

NWMO FCA "information without inspiration provides direction without motivation, inspiration without information provides motivation without direction" - Unknown

I do not know what your ear is telling you, or even your heart for that matter. I have so much on my mind it just blows me away. Like a child who earnestly and incessantly says, "why?" "But WHY?" How about the moments that the silence is so very quiet that it SCREAMS OUT TO your soul? Yes and what about the moments of the earth's creation unable to cease from what the bowls desire to exclaim?

Do You and Can you hear it? Oh listen to that. It is AWEmazing. The child (NOT FETUS) in the womb who is so eager to share the wonders of the creator from the

moment of conception. Or the parents so thrilled to finally get to see what HE, the I AM already knows from before time. Or the cries of a baby to convey the vocabulary of the heart. The wonder of the ear to hear as He created us to hear.

Are we, are YOU, am I really lending a very attentive ear to give way to the voice of the whisper? Can you clearly hear? Are we LISTENING?! Really listening?

When I was in preschool, I remember going to my first Christmas Musical put on by the Senior High School just on the next block and the song, "Do You hear what I

Hear?" was sung with an amazing vocals! It still gives me goosebumps. I was in AWE, for it allowed me to revisit that wonder and smile. I was in utter amazement of the thought of listening? Then recently one of my favorite films: August Rush and the amazing dipictions through sound barriers and of being allowed to hear. To have ears that could and can still distinguish the thoughts that are going on while listening to the stupendous thrills surrounding us.

I began to listen. Sounds such as the giggle from a baby, the gurgle of mouth wash, the sound of a tear falling from one needing tender care, or the voice from a bubbling Brook flowing down a stream in the Rockies, the song sung from one with all their enriched being, the voice of a preacher, the buzz of the bee, the conversation of the insects with the season of Spring. How about the birds chirping their own melodious tunes, the rapid speed of the wings of the humming bird, the bark of a loyal dog, the meow of a cat. the song of a girl across the world asking you if she can call you "MUM" and consider you to be one who will advocate for her as a

mother soothing her child, the laughter of a daddy while giving advise.

Do You hear with the wonder of "what" I am hearing?

I am so thankful for the ability to still hear, even though it is rapidly diminishing - I sing praise and Glorify the Lord for the ability to still listen and hear.

Ahhhhh December

2011-12-04T22:51:00.005-06:00

Sweet, Sweet December here we are again. You never cease to Amaze me. The Joy you provide. The sorrow held at bay. There are five wonderful women; Amy S. (locally),Kelsey I. (out of town) and Stephanie (out of town), Julia G. (out of state) and two new mommies announced from our body of Christ Lyndsey and Sierra, I know right now who carry a child with in their womb. It so reminds me that just a few years ago we awaited with excitement that which was born to us around Christ's Celebrated birth ~ the last child that last joined our family. My life and first breath out of my mothers' womb came to be - all in December. Many Christmases, New Years Eve's and many many births in my family - Ahhh December, the exquisite Joy, like a snow flake Big and uniquely all it's own. That is like the adventures I have had all in December.

Ahhh December I love the time of the year. Why, because LOVE

PREVAILS in so many ways. The quote I heard in the past is so true, "I just wanna be LOVED, is that so wrong?" - unknown (really I forgot who said it, however it is only right to properly give credit where credit is due). No it is not wrong to want to be LOVED. Quite Frankly, December brings that out in MOST individuals for they begin to think of Others and not themselves. The joy of giving, the joy of forgiving, the joy of just LOVING come through the month of December!

Ahhh December. On my birthday you, oh Abba, allowed a day that SNOWED in my native growing up soil. The laughter of my brother and the voice of my dad gave me joy. A sweet text from on of my Sister in Loves brought the joy through a soft tear all in December. My Daughters (all of them!!!) have giving me many years of JOY through the month of December and now my new Son in Love shares in the wonder of December.

Ahhh December, I enjoy that I am married to the LOVE OF MY LIFE ~ to the only man I have EVER dated, and carried all of my "firsts" with and there will never be another. And this year the Lord of All is allowing us another anniversary all in DECEMBER.

Ahhh December. Thirty one glorious days to just say THANK YOU for the evidence of LOVE! To grow up in a mountainous area and call it home, and to experience the grandeur of Purple Mountains Majesty. To discover the Christ as my Personal Savior and to call upon him from Christmas Caroling - all in December.

I LOVE DECEMBER. The Laughter, the CHRISTmas Joy, the Magnificent Proclamation, the Wonder of the Birth of the Christ Child - all remembered through DECEMBER! From my first Breath, to a nuptial Kiss, a commitment of LOVE - during a BLIZZARD, vows declared, births granted, children carried, songs sung, hot chocolate, Christmas Carols and many traditions - all in December.

Ahhh December. Family - the importance of FAMILY - and now I get to experience my first Christmas with our Son-in-Love to be. Ahhh December.

I will rejoice and Thank You dear Lord for what I do NOT deserved - all in DECEMBER a time to LOVE!

Philippians 4:19

Thanksgiving Thankfulness

2011-11-29T19:58:00.005-06:00

Thanksgiving was wonderful!

Family are wonderful ALL THE TIME! I love the moment to be truly Thankful for everything that the Lord has granted over the last year. It all makes me so very appreciative that at all cost - family is very special. And one of the added joys is a txt received from one of our special and loved nephews. " :) Awe thanks :) You have a great thanks giving spending it with all your girls love you."

He continually reminds me of how I am Thankful for ALL of my Family! Blessings to you sir and All of my entire Family!

This year Princess One was able to come home and it was wonderful to have all of our Princesses home together and get to spend it with family. Although I did truly miss our Prince who will soon and very soon begin to be a part of our family, ;-) !

Hearing the girls laugh and giggle and just enjoy one another gave my heart great pleasure. Joy of realizing that there is so much to be grateful for is a moment to relish the time to be able to know how blessed we truly are.

So I count it all joy to say THANK YOU to the the Lord for what he has allowed me to be given so that through him Love Lives brightly.

Dreaming

2011-11-19T13:18:00.002-06:00

A look from one

of the

Wonder of the Worlds

Don't be afraid to Dream

The little girl is running at lightening speed, Her laughter from with in bubbles over and over and her imagination runs wild. The tall grass tickles her limbs beyond control and she begins to enter into another world. It is amazing.

What is she "gathering wool" about?

Does she see visions?

Does she dream dreams?

Does she live them in her heart to one day live them out?

She plays to the imagination that one day, yes one day, she will live the visions and dreams to completion.

Keep Dreaming.

Keep Reaching.

Step out in Faith.

Don't be afraid to take the Step and Jump into your Dreams.

You'll never "wonder" about the "IF" when at least you take the step and Jump in Faith.

I BELIEVE IN YOU!

I ALWAYS HAVE!

I ALWAYS WILL!

You have been CALLED by HIM so "GO!"

Don't let ANYONE take that Dream away.

I LOVE YOU. ;-) "GO"

Seeker, who is it really?

2011-11-12T21:00:00.004-06:00

I love how many scriptures there are on him seeking, and then allowing us the choice to select to seek him back out of FREEWILL! Jeremiah 33:3 has been one verse that has been carrying me for some time now and I am so glad that it has brought me the joy of HIM! I know that everything else is futile really.

All I have desired after discovering that I was going to be in ministry answering his call on my life was to share Jesus with those He would bring into my life. I hungered to know him since I was almost finished with my teens. When I met a youth group on an outing I knew, "I WANT WHAT THEY HAVE - because they ARE DIFFERENT." Where there obstacles? Yes. However, the rewards of eternal ramifications far out weigh the "feelings" of trying to discover "something" that is fleeting and dead.

My desire than became to pray for loved ones to come to know him. To see him. To far surpass my desires for him. I just desired for them all to choose him like he has chosen us to answer. My heart bleeds for my children to always follow HIM! Always put HIM FIRST! To die for HIM! I LOVE THEM SO and those he keeps bringing into my path. I at times have held back and for that I am learning to not with hold his gift from anyone. I am realizing how much He has given me and there is much to share. To pray for and through. I LOVE JESUS CHRIST so much that after placing my feet on foreign soil in October, my life is so different. My heart more tender than it has ever been. As I have recently learned in the past few weeks, If you'll forgive my very loose translation point - "You in America believe in God, but we in ??? (sorry I forgot where I heard this, so I don't want to misquote the location) DEPEND on GOD!" -UNKNOWN

So I inquire of you, Who is it that really depends on Jesus Christ, God's son through the guiding of the Holy Spirit to follow and seek Him back with ALL their heart? Has he sought you out already? And the answer? Therefore - (may I share) However, When we seek HIM and HIM ALONE we receive FULL SATISFACTION! I know with out a doubt he has called me since i was very very young. As I look back I have been searching him out. NOW I DESIRE HIM to be my ALL! He is coming and I am running to find him and bring as many with me as possible. I only pray that they choose him and chase him with out stopping and hold on tight to bring them to LOVE him out of serving with true passion to give love in a way that can never be reciprocated - other than to serve others!

The questions that some ask is who is the Seeker? I believe that we are all people who seek for something or maybe even someone but the one who matters above all else is. DRUM ROLL . . . .. . . . . . God- Jehovah, I AM! He has had you and me on his mind since before time! That is right. And soon, very, very soon He is coming! Coming to gather those who have listened and responded to his seeking.

"Yet a time IS COMING and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks." John 4:23

2 + 5 = 5 + 2 or is it 2+5 = 2+5

2011-11-10T22:15:00.008-06:00

5 + 2

With the adventure of today I realized that I absolutely just LOVE the moments of now. The princesses of my life are a mirror. Let me explain. I LOVE the womb blessings that the LORD has bestowed upon us.

or is it

2 + 5

I LOVE the ones the Lord has allowed us (2) to birth (5)

and now there are seven to love from Cambodia (5) from safe home and (2) from Prevention homes

I just want them to know I am praying my one of my favorites over them ALL

Jeremiah 33:3

Philippians 4:8

Ephesians 3:20

knowing He has created them from the BEGINNING

Psalm 139!

They both come to a sum of SEVEN - Thank You Jesus!

I LOVE you ALL until the day I breath no longer on this side of HEAVEN!

Shane & Shane: The One You Need

2011-11-09T12:06:00.001-06:00

A dear friend of mine revealed this to me via the written blog - For that I am so thankful because their child is precious and it makes me THANKFUL for ours naturally and now in CAMBODIA!

Blessings to ALL!

Jeremiah 33:3 and 11b

wisdom from a child ;-)

2011-11-05T17:58:00.005-05:00

Ramblings of the enjoyment called "Today" a day of Joy. The wisdom of the simple pleasure in things that matter - life. Only a Life in Jesus can give what today reminded me of!

Through my ramblings let me try and just be unedited - me.

The moments to be on two dates in less than twenty four hours = a sweet autumn weekend. The joy of these moments have be freeing. We were able to laugh, walk, go out to eat and just enjoy one another company over an appetizer, sit with hot chocolate while enjoying a football game together, which they won; laugh with the girls when we returned home.

Only to have a full day of the same! Yes date number two - WONDERFUL! More laughs, quiet walks, a nice stake dinner after fall browsing and shopping with princess number five and watching her giggle just to be with us. A bright red balloon tied to her wee little wrists and to be so excited to have new pajamas. :-) Simple pleasures today. But my favorite? Just being with him. Only to be confident that we were hearing one another like the years have given us. JOY!

We didn't need to spend money. We just enjoyed the night and day together. I enjoyed watching him smile over the simpleness to let him know that we could go to a football game and just enjoy the atmosphere. He lit up! He enjoyed the idea but our company - Jesus Christ in the simple pleasure. Also today was the same. Just talk, walk, hold one another hand be quiet and comfortable with knowing we have and continue to share a lot together.

We've grown older but that is okay. We've experience a lot together and that is why we are here - LOVE from above. Ministry - wow! Life in marriage, to the love of my life - unending. Persevere. Remain Faithful. Believe. Trust. Take up your cross. Revival. Prepare for the Harvest. Endurance. Love - true agape love! Love that has given us five beautiful Princesses and Princess Hadassah made us smile all day long today.

Allowing us to remember every time all five of them have brought us the same pleasures! Joy through Love and this wisdom they have enlighten us with! She reminded me of all five of them. And now the new seven of them that are connected forever to them! Lord Thank you so much for Kent and all the children you have given me to learn from and now the seven others in another land to connect to these here in our home. I am Blessed and wisdom was with us today Thank You, Abba, Father, God - for I know I have lost a lot here on earth but In YOU we are RICH beyond measure. This little one showed us your wisdom for that I am so humbled.

Yes today and all of yesterday has been sweet and when we sat at our lunch date and our 'server' returned to take our order a precious little princess said, "who's that?" "Taylor" "Sheeee's Perty!" and a grin of approval and a giggle as she sat with us and said, "that's okay!" and she began to "dance" in her seat but with manners.

Today made me think of the road we have traveled with one another for over the last twenty six years and I wouldn't trade it for the world. Today - I just enjoyed the simple pleasures and the wisdom received through a god fearing man and a child and her child like faith with the creation crying out to the Master - Salvation awaits all that choose to pluck it's fruit that lasts for all eternity! Riches of the world mean nothing, when left hurt and all you have is Jesus to cling to you can endure. Love is the greatest of these. Today I know I am loved and can love because he has granted forgiveness to me when I don't deserve it. Thank you Abba for wisdom and how you allowed me to see you through the last forty eight hours.

"Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are reaches and honor. her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tee of life to those who embrace her: those who lay hold of her will be blessed." Proverbs3:13-18 NIV

The wonder of it all

2011-11-03T11:33:00.006-05:00

"Whether you eat or drink or WHATEVER you do, do it ALL FOR THE GLORY OF GOD!"

Cor. 10:

I am amazed at so many things. Last night I had a wonderful guest stop by our home. One that wanted to share, ask questions about Cambodia, the "whys?" and watch Baht.

It still chokes me up with everything. I think about how each time one of our Princesses were born it made me think of all the things layed before them in their future. How the moment we found out that LIFE existed from conception the wonder and the desire to pray for their purity and for the men that would come into their lives to be pure as well. The years, and years of endless prayer.

As their mommy my desires were for them to Love God, Follow Jesus Christ and accept the invitation for eternal life through Salvation with Yahweh. To listen to the calling of the Holy Spirit and to follow His counsel all their days designed here on earth. For them to Love like he lived out love. To be protected from all evil and harm. It was the burden of my soul, my heart, my desire for the girls to live with a peace knowing that they are covered with the Blood of Jesus because they choose to follow. As their mommy my heart ache was for them to be holy as he is holy! That men would not harm them.

Little did I know that what took three years and four months to have an answer would change me for the rest of my life. I remember sitting and crying with one very special lady long ago over a life lost. A life that from that point I knew would be with Jesus but it still hurt because I would never see that precious face. That is how it is once again, the ache but now there are faces and names connected to the faces. Ones that mean a lot. Princesses as precious as our five Princesses that when I look into their face I also see them.

Someone needs to pray for them. Someone needs to be their voice. Someone = my heart felt prayer to be their intercessor along with interceding for M, T, F, E, HR with Passionate Agape Love and stand in the gap.

The wonder of it all for me is to know that the Holy Spirit knows my pleas. My desires. My dreams. And I believe with all my heart he hears and is answering these prayers for these precious gems called his children!

I thank You Lord Jesus for the chance that all the girls have to hear about Jesus Christ and His LOVE and they now have a treasure to accept your gift. The wonder? Not at all a question but now I know you are true and faithful and are healing. Thank You for the joy of life and allowing me to Love our girls. To be able to pray on their behalf and now there are those that are connect to their lives through the same spirit because now they are loved with deep compassion.

In Jesus Name - be with them who are yet to come. Be with them that are healing right now. Be with them who are with them. Just continue to BE! Amen and Amen!

The walk of a Princess

2011-11-01T12:51:00.013-05:00

"Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD. " Psalm 150

How Great is Our God - Chris Tomlin

She walks down the hall way

pitter, patter

a smile cascades from ear to ear

The sound of joy through a giggle

Dress up

finding high heels

quiet . . . silence

a sigh

she reappears

hair bundled in a doo

She appears

she sighs

she walks ever so precious with each step

she looks earnestly up into his eyes - searching 'the king' for his approval

He smiles, with an extension of a gentleman's hand

'the queen' pauses with a gentle tear

they smile with the eyes of wonder

The Princess gleams

puts up her parasol

walks away on cloud nine

to be able to leave the castle and then enjoy the evening

Princess five . . . .

the days of her joy begin

Princess four . . .

so sweet and excited

Princess three . . .

ideals all her own

Princess two . . .

Beauty that is ready to fly soon, very soon to arms of interest

Princess one . . .

Flying and soon very soon

preparations

ready to be with the one called her Prince

The Kingdom belongs to Him and Him alone. However, now the earthly king . . . shines with a joy that comes from the humble gifts and honor of watching them Gleam and Glow with Joy of the Beauty from with in that was there from the beginning; Psalm 139. The queen also knows it is only T - I - M - E and all five will reside in their own kingdoms. The beauty of bitter sweetness - they are pleased and filled with joy.

Now seven other Princesses are being prayed for to be a radiant bride one day as well in a foreign land. That their Prince will honor them just like those here. God is so Good ALL THE TIME!

A True Love Story - Redemption through Jesus Christ and Rapha House

""He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes, with the princes of their people. He settles the barren woman in her home as a happy mother of children. Praise the Lord!" Psalm 113

Bride and Groom at Angkor Waht October 18, 2011

Speaking or not speaking both are loud

2011-10-31T09:43:00.010-05:00

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy." Proverbs 31:8-9 "

Through www.raphahouse.org we can be that voice!

"Lord, bring me five for five and two for two!" to represent our family -

He answered !!!! Seven came forward and there is now connection.

. . . If Anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceiveshimself and his religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this; to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:26-27

Last night the second wave of tears gently fell. Fell for the faces and names forever engraved upon my heart, my memory, my soul. Even as they asked me to remember me by name I too will remember them by NAME and FACE. With Joy there are seven precious PRINCESS I have and will continue to pray for DAILY by name!!!

Whether or not I speak continually, I will live as their advocate with PASSION

I will forever Love them like my own and remember that they asked me to be able to call me "MUM!" It is humbling and YES most definitely Yes, they can call me and I will PRAY for their FREEDOM!

We are bound by Khamitasitic LOVE grounded in AGAPE!!!!

Singapore secret prayer ;-)

2011-10-30T05:35:00.008-05:00

When is Singapore International on Oct 12, someone felt the need to keep my Creative Memory sports pull over jacket, with precious goodies in my pocket and a prescription. However, it is just something material. In the whole outlook now the royal blue one hanging in this picture, is the one I am praying through and for you with true joy. The prayer is saturated for warmth of your heart and soul and your physical body. I forgive you truly. For in the scheme of everything . . . it is for you - so that now I may earnestly be connected to you and pray for your salvation. That you may come to receive and have the best life ever for all eternity!I have been praying for that YOU ever since that early morning. That you may come to the Savior to be free and that your entire family; they all may come to know the Savior of the world Jesus Christ and know that HE LOVES YOU! And now we have a connection spiritually so that I may lovingly keep your heart and soul lifted before him.

Yours truly - your sister in Jesus Christ!

Designed by the Master Designer

2011-10-28T05:45:00.005-05:00

Each little one is so precious. A purpose designed by the Master Himself

and when one desires to leave them as ashes He grants another to place His crown

to reveal they are His PRINCESS, His Bride - From ashes to HIS CROWNED BEAUTY!

"The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is one me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, . . . and provide for those who grieve in Zion-to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, . . . They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor." Isaiah 61:1 & 3

So many times we as human beings are filled with a bit of a broken life however with the Lord we are arrayed in His splendor. We may feel like we have to walk through the mire at times, but you are beautiful! Maybe one reading this is brokenhearted, or is a captive to anger, or a deep thought process. There may be even those who feel hopeless and alone. Please understand the Savior has a hope for you. A hope that will sustain in a way that is incomprehensible to most because it just doesn't make sense. It is the gift of Salvation. A Free gift for you and me that cost one very Loving God his everything: His Son!

For those who look to "see" only the beauty of of their desired perfection we forget that our lives may just seem like broken pieces and not whole and we may think, "how can this possibly be beautiful?" But our lives filled with what may seem like a pile of burnt ashes is really a relic, one of a crown of beauty that is placed on our head to display His splendor in our lives! You my friend, such as I have recently experienced, are not a mistake. Regardless of what life may have been lived by the choices we have made; or other choices may have made by others that can affect our life; both may leave a blemish of some kind on our life however, it is part of our character building. How?

How will we handle it? How will we reflect the design of the master creator? All I know is that after working with a wonderful Non for profit organization- Rapha House, I witnessed one beautiful redemption, a series of healing and a love story ~ all of these were taking place in a the darkest of spiritual warfare. A story one after another of true love. True fulfilled redemption. We are all broken pieces but in the heap of ashes "we are bestowed a crown of beauty , the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair!" like Isaiah 61:3 reveals. Let Him grab your hand, show his Love for you like a "Mum" who desires to lavish Love upon a child left for broken. He Loves you that much! And through the Love of Jesus Christ, we are the hands of the master himself for one another.

You are designed with intent. You are designed with a beauty from deep with in from the master designer himself ~ because you are of Wonderful Value! You are BEAUTIFUL!

pictures by Randy Wheeler

"Songkum" and Rapha House | Rapha House

2011-10-26T20:58:00.000-05:00

This is one of the girls I worshipped with on Sunday October 16, 2011

(Sat. night back home 12 hours behind CST)

"Songkum" and Rapha House | Rapha House

Forever Changed

2011-10-26T13:25:00.012-05:00

Meeting thirteen individuals in Texas. In route for over thirty hours. The heart has forever been changed. Now I may understand what David Livingston meant!!!

"But do not forget this one thing, dear friend: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day." II Peter 3:8

A time to reflect

2011-10-25T09:57:00.004-05:00

Three of these four girls are sponsored monthly! Won't you

consider to be the other ones' sponsor?

Which prevents them or a family member from being a victim of Human trafficking

When thinking about how to put it all into mere words, it seems unfathomable. However, when one writes from the heart how can the flow of emotion not be shared by the wonders lived in a different but very real culture.

I came back forever different! Along with thirteen other individuals! I can not begin to try to even explain fully what transformed; other than to share that God is AMAZING in his Grace and Mercy. That He still gives opportunities for his creation to choose HIM.

Flying for such a long period of time and leaving on October 10, 2011 to arrive fifty one + hours later at the destination of ministry. With absolutely no expectations or preconceived ideas my heart and eyes took in everything. Every stop made there was prayer literally laid before me. From meeting for the first time: the TEAM that would be my living family over the next few weeks, getting to the location terminal and gate with only one phone number in hand, there was no anxiousness but only peace. When I met them - again PEACE!

The peace of the Holy Spirit. The lessons of learning forgiveness over the past several months; a forgiveness that really only prepared me for the moments for living on foreign soil that temporarily was called my home. The peace for traveling over five thousand miles away from where it is comfortable to a foreign land, a different dialect, and a very different way of living. One thing that remains the same: The beating heart, the soul and spirit, the gospel is forever absolute TRUTH, even to a deprived wondering people who choose not to follow Him. There is a remnant that is there where my feet walked. A vibrant small spark that is really burning and making a difference Yes Jesus Christ is there.

That very presence of the Lord did grant a confidence and peace that only comes from the Master himself. From a very significant family where the spirit definitely is living in them. To a man who is a very godly man, who knows the Savior and lives it out with his life and the passion to carry out the vision of the gospel through rescue and passion. The staff that the King has brought together at every location - WOW. All of them are filled with Heavenly peace, and it shows. They run like a well running engine: Abba he is "motor" truly the King. The fuel is the Spirit. And the longevity of true comes for Jesus Christ's blood that is like the oil that keeps it all flowing and running smoothly. God is so wonderful in how he is working. I only wish that humanity and it's fall had not taken it's toll on the precious lives that it has.

Rapha Kids Club - prevention at the core and so many to reach! Many sponsored; 140+ but we need so many more sponsorships to be met! Safe houses/freedom centers prayer, support and so much more yet needs to meet. My prayer was for the Lord to give five for five! I have five princesses of my own granted from Heaven so it was asked of the Lord to grant five to pray for regularly to remember their faces. He fulfilled for now I know their names, I touched their hands and they are forever imprinted upon my heart by name, face and touch! They have names that I know but for their safety remain anonymous to the electronic world for now! But I know them and they know me, I will be their "mum" as they pleaded for me to be. I know Yahweh is their Jehovah Jirah! I Believe they will be FREE like the one I met on Sunday morning October 16, 2011. I know it full well.

My emotion is stirring right now, therefore it is time to draw this to a close. But if you would remember the one hundred and thirty nine girls and all of the staff that care for them right now and the others who may have wondered in your daily devotional prayers. I implore you for it would be deeply appreciated.

They are girls who need a "mum" interceding for them and their safety and healing. Please, Please won't you be their PRAYER WARRIOR as the natives literally love on them to FREE THEM?!

All in the name of Jesus Christ I write and try to be a voice through pen.

Amen and Amen

Rapha House Trailer

2011-10-17T03:06:00.000-05:00

2011-10-17T02:54:00.002-05:00

Tarah Has a wonderful blog chronicling our adventure up to this point so let me direct you to her blog: This is one of our sisters who has been writing our journey along the way and thought I would direct you to her pen/type. Until we meet again. Take if Tara. ;-)

http://totallytarah.blogspot.com/

how to convey it in words so late

2011-10-16T04:12:00.005-05:00

Colossians 3:16 "Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with with all wisdom through psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your heart."

As I sit with these girls I am amazed and sit in awe wonder. Wonder because I will not ask any questions yet I know with out a shadow or doubt that they have heard, have seen and have experienced no little girl or young lady should ever experience. EVER! Explotation is wickedly evil. And the demand seems to me to be even more evil. If there were no perversion then these sweet flower fragrented girls would not be ones who would have been abused in this way. The sweetness of their new home is wonderful. The girls are smiling again.

Safe House Wonders of Cambodia

2011-10-16T03:10:00.004-05:00

Hello from Cambodia,

The moment of Today is a reflection of how big our God is! God is Amazing in how he has granted great provisions. However what is AWFUL is the people here no not of our AMAZING God! How great He is and how lost they are! When riding the "Tuk-Tuk" today I sit in wonder of how the " Men are like Gold and the women are like cloth." Let me explain that phrase,

Gold when it is dirty can be cleaned up, polished and still have it's worth. Material when it is dirty it is forever stain and considered worthless. Women and children here are considered property. Little girls, young girls are seen as the ones to take care of their family however, they are "sold as property" with no value.

My five girls are the MOST VALUABLE assets that we have been humbly privileged to have as PRINCESSES! I Praise my Lord and Savior for giving them to us in the USA. I look into these most wonderful eyes of every girl and my heart aches for them. Aches to want to show them they are wonderful!!! Psalm 139! They are so BEAUTIFUL! Yet they are so hurt from what their culture handed to them. Rapha is a wonderful HOPE for them. Hope because this morning sit next to "_ _ _" she smiled and said, "I am a Rapha girl and I FREE for FOUR YEARS!" with the most wonderful smile in her eyes and across her face as she shined for Jesus! WOW!!!! She brought her sister for the very first time from a "far away province"because she is excited to share her JESUS with her people. May there continue to be more "_ _ _ 's" and someday there will be no more need for RAPHA TO EXIST!!!!! That is my PRAYER - the safe house that is NO LONGER NECESSARY!!! It will Happen!

In Jesus most wonderful name AMEN AND AMEN!!! God Keep Blessing the Family you already have been working with. For their safety I will keep them anonomous.

"Exhausting Yet REWARDING" - Ana Salas

2011-10-13T09:16:00.003-05:00

Psalm 82:3-4

Ana Salas, is so right in how it was today! We went to Women's' Island, and to Kids Club in Phenom Penh. Oh how do I try and convey that? One can not put it into words correctly. Rapha House is a wonderful mission based out of Joplin, Mo.

One that makes a difference due One Christian meeting another Native Christian man who had a passion and a vision. One that led to a wonderful program to save the Heart and the awful atrocities of Human Trafficking or call it what it is . . . . sex trafficking. Girls as young as 4-6 years of age to the late twenties. In a country that had the killing fields of Karon Rouge in the seventies both heart breaking.

Yes today was exhausting but very REWARDING! Praise the Lord!

One more flight

2011-10-11T17:38:00.003-05:00

Wow! It has Been AMAZING how the Lord is working already!!!!

We are almost there. Been in route for about 48 hours! GOD SPEED!!! Have to run it is time to catch the NEXT and last flight before on the right "SOIL"!

I Love YOU ABBA!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SAFETY!!!!

I met my Brothers and SISTAS and they are AWEMAZING to be with!!! I sing to the Heavens rejoicing. Movie preview: While on one of our very long flights I recommend to watch. However be Ready. Oranges and Sunshine. Let me know what you think. IT MADE ME THINK!!!!

I forgot to mention that I am thirteen hours ahead and on a different day then my family back HOME. It is October 12, for me and for them it is October 11. WOW!

All my days

2011-10-09T06:52:00.003-05:00

". . . All the days ordained for me were written in you book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How Vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, They would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you." Psalm 139:16-18

I am so thrilled to know that it is a time to "GO" and know that my life is in His hands. I know full well the wonders of my life and my name are engraved in the Palm of His Hand. I am in AWE of that. Last night I went to a Salad Supper at CCC and sat by some wonderful women of God. Those I sat with Last night Sweet to the Soul. Tatia, Kathy, Jeanenne, Linda, Sally Jo, Terry, Kim, Teresa and many more. It was sweet. He has ordained my life to reflect HIS and it is very humbling. I am in AWE of this wonderful Abba, Father, GOD - I AM!

So today Abba, I give you all of my Life and I thank You for the family of God and how you are bringing our first son into our home. Thank You Abba, THANK YOU for "All of my days!" for they are rich.

Jordan and Mya Engagement

Copy rights apply to photo above!

Amazing

2011-10-07T22:23:00.004-05:00

How is it one could think of harming little ones like this? How?! Around the world there are children and young girls neglected and abused by the ugly harshness of Human Trafficking. The next time you look into their eyes pray for the many who are Human Traffic victims and know that the Lord asks us to speak up and against such travesty. Read Luke 18:16 - ff.

Titus 2:3 Ladies, speak up and be set apart. "Teach older women to be reverant in the way that they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to too much wine, but to teach what is good."

Anxious?

2011-10-05T12:42:00.008-05:00

Why? Why do we become anxious? Why do we think we need to be "in control of EVERYTHING?" What is the struggle about? really?

I am so excited for what is in my life right now. God has really been working on my heart A LOT and it all began with a study on Unconditional Forgiveness & "The Joseph Journey" - both by Brian Zahnd. Cultivating, burying, dieing, watering, sprouting, journey to growth. So much has been permeating this heart, soul, life of mine. It is inexpressible. Why? Because it is a journey with my FIRST LOVE!!!

OUCH. Yet very necessary. Pruning. rightfully so. Vices necessary to be rid of. Pent up pasts now is the time to take care of . . . and boy is He.

He has been speaking to me for quite some time. It has brought some pain. Some deep stretching. Like I said before agonizing pruning but very necessary. When walking with Jesus it requires FAITH! BELIEF! Obedience!!!

Then His voice whispers to me, "Ana, are your ready?" my sheepish soft reply, "I don't know but I am willing. Is it going to .. . . you know hurt?" "Yes. It may be harder more so in some areas than others. But are you ready? Some others are not going to understand." I trust you Lord, Your the only one I am truly able to fully trust. I am ready. Hold me please. And as Hadassah has been saying, "Don't LEAVE ME, please don't leave me!"

Then he says,

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with Thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the PEACE of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" - Philippians 4:6-7

It is time. Our journey has begun. Don't run. Just persevere and remain steady and OBEY.

Thank You, Lord. I LOVE YOU! I TRUST YOU. I am willing - YOU WILL BE DONE!

It's Time

2011-10-04T08:48:00.007-05:00

I can not believe it. It is here. Time to serve on the long awaited prayer since June 2008. It is actually here. Amazing how much has happened since that summer! I have been having dreams. Dreams that well . . . are HIS!

In the natural face before getting ready I want to say:

To my precious family- I LOVE YOU MUCH!

Kent Thank You, Girls walk in Jesus ALL the days of your LIFE!!! SHINE for Jesus!!! Our family mantra since . . . goodness me I don't know how long it has been since we started that cliche in our home as you walk out the door! Just KNOW that I LOVE YOU six so much!!! Thank You for the moments to right now. Upon my return I am so exited to share with you what the Lord has been revealing! I LOVE YOU JESUS with ALL MY HEART, SOUL AND MIND! WOW and Thank You for allowing me to be a part of answered prayer!!!!

Answered prayer is now here; October 2011.

Jeremiah 33:3, Philippians 4:8 and Ephesians 3:20

When the Lord

2011-10-01T18:33:00.010-05:00

When the Lord leads, and we listen there are wonderful dividends filled with adventure. Even when we are shaking our heads because "we are not in control" of the situation.

soon to be wed

Jordan and Mya in worship together with Tennessee Musicians;

John Martin Keith and Sacred June

Other four Princesses

Where I have been praying about since June 2008 with conviction

and Below are some of the TEAM I will be with in nine short soon days!

The Lord is AWESOME and WONDERFUL even in the most of true Joy. Because it is not surrounded by the circumstance of "happenstance" about us but a lifestyle engraved in the palm of the Lord our SAVIOR!

So here is just a few snap shots of my life to make me smile!

A daddy with three of his Princesses!

See Ya!

I Samuel 15:22-23

Remember, "When the Lord . . . leads where will you follow?"

Baht Trailer - CIY Move

2011-09-23T20:30:00.000-05:00

Oh my gooooodness, omgoodness

2011-09-23T20:04:00.004-05:00

Have you ever a met a group of people and began to well up? Have you ever "knew" they were so as you thought they may be? Well Have Ya?

I am so excited. Why? Because in Late June 2008 I was carrying a precious little life in my womb and being convicted at the same time from a video I watched called BAHT at a CIY Youth event in Holland MI! My mind went into overdrive. My heart began to feel heavy and then tears slowly left a small trail down my check. Victims. Children. Girls from 4-27 years of age. Human & Sex Traffic victims. These ages covered all the ages of my children - ALL OF THEM! And to know that I was carrying another child at that time Crushed me!

I tell you all this because I began praying. Praying, PRAYING. Investigating. Researching. RAPHA HOUSE. I found a sponsored trip. My oldest child and I both ended up applying.

One thing led to another. One trip, two trips passed by however another was available. Left in the Lords Hands. We received the acceptance letter. Mya was placed on an October team 2010 just shy and under a year later because of timing of school. Finalization made. Acceptances cleared. We discovered we BOTH were accepted. Change of plans. Mya to DR. and myself to destination of origin. Pray, letters, Prayer, wait. W - A - I - T. decisions to post pone further- a decision well made; Grace extended. W - A - I - T ~ GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME, all seems positive! Hardship, sorrow, PRAYERS, "why's?" (like a child's question) - grief. Sorrow and Service to remember. W - A - I - T. Prayers, Prayers, PRAYERS. Many seasons of change. Placement made. OCTOBER 2011! It's here.

Skype - WE meet! We discuss! We introduce! They touched my heart more than they will know for all that has gone on during this journey. For Abba, Father, God knew "now is the time! NOW!!!" This will be part of your new family that you will be working along side for things you do not know. NOW!!!! WE smiled, we laughed. JOY to be encouraged by the timing of a PRAYER ANSWERED just shy of three and a half years. Oh my goodness. Oh my goodness! IT IS HERE in 17 very short days!!!!!

Jeremiah 33:3 has been discovered to touch my heart this past year. A time to think of many things and while it has brought me through a great deal over this coarse of the past year, it has also allowed a learning for great things through Jesus Christ. A time to be a servant. He knew it was necessary for me to learn a lot.

finding pasture through LOVE

2011-09-19T21:40:00.007-05:00

1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes[a] so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.

9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. 17 This is my command: Love each other." John 15:1-16

To Love with all your heart is the only way to LOVE. There are those who think I don't LOVE them, however, that is not true. I do. The more I think about it, the more I pray for their blessings and joy. Even though. The more I realize no one can make me stop LOVING them - never. Love is a choice. Yes a choice and one that I know is more precious than all the gold or silver in the entire world. More precious than any words. LOVE is still Loving at all costs. No, i am not perfect. I have never claimed to be. It has been touched and retouched upon my heart, Love because He first Loved me. So it is my passion to LOVE to find pasture no matter to outcome while walking on this earth - LOVE.

"I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture." John 10:9

the question remains.

2011-09-17T17:54:00.004-05:00

Spending a day with these women and having a great time with them, I turned to God and mediated on how much I do love family. ALL of my family - NO MATTER WHAT! These girls made me realize today how many prayers have been answered and how many more are being answered for the BEST in His Glory and his bidding.

So after reading scripture today, the question remains. What have I done in my life for the kingdom? If the Lord were to solidify my heart right now; would i be satisfied? Would I desire ever more and better results? If I were to be frozen in a picture frame would the "thousands words" be worth His Full Glory and not the worlds glory?

"Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what they have DONE."

Revelation 22:12 (September 17, 2011)

What have you done with your life?

eyes awakened, heart convicted

2011-09-16T14:09:00.009-05:00

Sunday 9-11-11 a day to prepare for DR. A day that this heart of mine was being broken to really evaluate what God sees. This day when our country was remembering 9-11-01 ten years ago . . . TODAY (9-11-11)these hands were preparing for a future to reach out through hard work that would measure a harvest in such greater dividends. See after two very brutal storms in NW MO, a farmer allowed us to live out the gospel by gleaning his cornfields that the combine cannot pick up the abundance left behind. That gave an opportunity to prepare and pray over what lie ahead. Young to old alike working hand in hand our eyes are awakened and our hearts to be yet convicted. May we live to be scripture breathed in reality of the Harvest of souls!

I loved working this day and the next early Monday morning with a team of twelve to fill another harvest wagon.

"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in Harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as afar as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written; "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary;

"If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:9-21

"Remember this: Whoever SOWS SPARINGLY will also REAP SPARINGLY, and whoever SOWS GENEROUSLY will also REAP GENEROUSLY. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all Grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written:

"He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever."

Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. you will be made rich n every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.

Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the Gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.

And in their prayers for you their heart swill go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Tanks be to God for his indescribable gift!" II Corinthians 9:6-15

College here we come

2011-09-14T12:42:00.005-05:00

Brye, Megan, Landin, Heather, Tia

Friends immediately FUN!!!

The day was a wonderful day!

Tia

Mya

Jordan

Landen

Heather

Brye

Megan

College Tour

Family

Friends

Campus

Schedules

luncheon

Sitters

Hadassah

First Impressions

Hope

Excited Anticipation

Wait

Joy

Calm

Peace

Expectations

walking

talking

Dinner

gathering

laughter

Pictures (finally)

Family

laughter

ornery fun

Hugs

Lost

search like mad

Craze

attempt to stay

FOUND

fuel up

LOST

walk

ask

call

stop

second attempt to stay

retrace

call . . .

FOUND

depart.

Talk, TAlk, TALk, TALK . . . . giggle, laughter, giggle, LAUGHTER - unending texting Laughter

Silence - HOME!

Great day! "This is ONE OF THE BEST DAYS EVER! . . .." Tia

whenit rains it pours

2011-09-08T14:14:00.003-05:00

Okay so this week has been just a bit unusual. But I like it!

I have the joy of remember three special individuals from TN on a daily basis now. Thanks for the Westinghouse nostalgia there is now always some free flowing air. I love it. But also some new tunes to reminisce about the sweet time together. I just LOVE IT!

Also I have been enjoy our Creator. I've been making an unusual appointment lately and well . . . it is really early (OR LATE) in the wee morning dusk hours. But it is so sweet. Our last encounter took place by a beautiful moonlit night outlooking the window. Okay so a few tears fell because it ended with humming my sweet princess to sleep while rocking her to the point that my appointment was very unexpected but deeply appreciated and very gratifying. My mind has been traveling at very rapid paces and boy is that AWE mazing because these little eyes are NOT naturally a NIGHT OWL. ;-)

A year ago today I was sitting with my family, processing many things. a year later . . . processing again. It hit me. people. creation. it's filled with awe. Like the soft rain pitter pattering. Or the Harsh wind that blows at volocity and feriousness . . .. So when it rains . . . our roof has been leaking at odd moments but that is not the pouring I am talking about. Have any of you ever wondered, why does it seem that "things" are just so temporal, and unnecessary? Like who defines the rules of what we "need"? Or how we live temporarily? Okay, so isn't it the need that is, 'it' - the jist of basic shelter, food and covering (clothing)? Why do we get so caught up in the frivolity of 'things' that really don't matter? Is this what Solomon was referring to? See spiritually it is so pretty AWE mazing. All the things have been taking place in my life over a years; give and take, time. A weird one is a book I have been returning to and reading just "disappeared" after I took it with me to read and laying it down. It just about drove me crazy looking for that crazy book. Then, I realize - them 'awe' moments - everything were reflected on and through & after re uniting with three special SAINTS from MIT! Can I say, that is when it was recognized, that it has been "pouring" for a bit in our home with EVERYTHING IMAGINEABLE! Everything. The old movie titled "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly" with Clint Eastwood . . . I like that title; Yeah - EVERYTHING.

In all of "IT" God is So WONDERFUL in his disclosures of still loving at and in all circumstances and that has made the "everything" more shall we say, enjoyable as well as endurable and everything in between - it is "wonder"full and filled in every way.

So just remember Christ died for EVERYONE! And that he LOVES EVERYONE! Therefore, because He first Loved me, I am really working on loving. Most of the time it is a BLAST and the rest of the time it is a 'blast'. Love never gives out, never fails, well you get the picture. So the next time you hear, "When it rains, it pours." Look for the BLESSINGS in them; raining and pouring moments, because usually that phrase is in a negative connotation, so why not put it in terms of Discovering or RE-Discovering The Lord Jesus Christ and His Love.

What will it be?

2011-09-02T13:13:00.005-05:00

I love what a sweet sister in Christ reminded me today. Amy Coy Simmons ‎"To avoid criticism, do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing." -Elbert Hubbard

There are so many times that we are so worried about things that don't matter. What about WHAT DOES MATTER?

Salvation?

Freedom? True FREEDOM?

Joy?

Peace?

LOVE? TRUE LOVE?!!!

I am talking about the one that is AGAPE and not really comprehensible to the average mind! One that makes us step back and say, "That really wasn't me, I don't know where that came from, other than from the Creator of ALL!"

I know that many times there is always a critic. Even it is from ourselves. But what is the true barometer of that critic?

Is it the world? Humanism? or is it from the only source that truly matters. One that when the difference is about the unknown of the seem of all Eternity. ETERNAL ramifications. I am not perfect by any stretch of the means but I know that I am learning each and everyday so many lessons and I am leaning even more with every breath, step, thought and action.

For our to the Heart the mouth speaks. TRULY SPEAKS. I am learning to use my ears more and my tongue less. Maybe just maybe that is why He gave us two ears and one mouth.

hummmmm . . .

His Love

2011-09-01T22:52:00.003-05:00

His Love ENDURES ~ FOREVER!!!

Go ahead read it ~ Psalm 136

then enjoy . . . a fun moment to get you through all moments together.

And after having FUN with Faithy well this is what made us BOTH SMILE TODAY!!!!

I am so THANKFUL for the PRINCESSES

that have made my life what it is and for them allowing me

to laugh with them and just have fun together ~

Knowing that: GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME

and sometimes we look crazy while enjoy one another!

Who knows what the PRINCE will look like after

well . . . You know the rest of the story

or should I say "Fairy tale?"

:-)

pst this picture does belong to someone else but I don't know who to credit it to rightfully with their Copyrights. SO UNKNOWN (as of right now).

"I tell You"

2011-08-31T11:55:00.006-05:00

Thank you Abba, Father, God for the sweet reminder through your love letter to me, us. As I am sitting with you and for Today's DAILY Scripture reading to remind me; of how before discovering your then finding you ~ I was your enemy. For the reminder of an earlier posting:

Gianna Jessen Abortion Survivor In Australia Part 1, truth story; and JJ Heller song What Love Really Means. It just refreshes my memory; How through your love, this very verse shares your love as well as the ultimate example for me to follow - DAILY!

"BUT I tell you who hear me: LOVE your enemies, DO GOOD to those who hate you, BLESS those who curse you, PRAY for those who mistreat you." Luke 6:27-28

Thank You Abba, truly thank you.

Never Once - Joplin Video

2011-08-31T11:51:00.000-05:00

Joplin is where My daughter goes to college and many sweet LOVED ones Live that are a part of my heart strings. This song is so fitting to our walk with Jesus Christ.

And another sweet SISTA is the one who wrote a poem; "I AM JOPLIN" became a slogan and mantra that sprang from her heart. God is so AWE. . .MAZING!!!!

though

2011-08-30T23:04:00.003-05:00

Though I walk . . . .

I will continue to walk with THEE and THEE ALONE

servitude

humbly I seek

for then thy others will receive all that you intend for me to truly express and be

Though . . . .

ALL PRAISE I SHALL SING

Sit

Wait

Give

Remain

Though . . . .

With soft tear

whether sorrow or joy

smile or calm

ponder

expressive

Though . . . .

Life in THEE is ALL I DESIRE TO SEE

so That they call

I shall be

Though . . . .

As you wish

I KNOW THOU ART WITH ME

Selah

I will

2011-08-30T10:10:00.003-05:00

Psalm 91:14 "Because he loves me, says the LORD, 'I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.' "

Today as I sit in my thoughts, much like pictures I remember of a special Ballerina; I WILL PRAISE HIM through HIS PROVISIONS through the preparation and the wait I wait her perfect timing and ques!

The Lord is awesome. Through my Faith, my walk REMAINS in HIM! For that I am truly grateful for what he is preparing. Through the moment of wait ~ it is anticipated with joy.

IN ALL THINGS

2011-08-29T00:39:00.009-05:00

Matthew 13:24

So much has weaved its way into the tapestry of my life! I cling to the cross, read, read, and reread a wonderful series of written print in book form along with the greatest book EVER and count it all good. Especially since today's stretching lessons in two separate hours and a youth overview.

Life is truly amazing - TRULY and for that I AM THANKFUL! Why because the truth of His word is full of moments of incredible growing pains. Ones that are so eagerly awaited with the utmost respect of the Creator of ALL THINGS! In all things the Lord has granted greatness in all circumstances. FAMILIA, Te AMO!!!! With all that I possess this is truth from the deep inner most parts of my being.

In all things I count it pure joy my brothers, IN ALL THINGS. What a week. I discovered the joy of talking with Jen O. that it is confirmed after three years. The date is set and eagerly awaited to accomplish. Timing. Awaiting. Love. Sorrow. Wait. Pray. Struggle. Stretch. Wait. Strength. Wait. LOVE. LOVE. LOVE. Proposal. Wait. Preparations. Acceptance. Relationships. Confirmation. God Is Good ALL THE TIME, ALL THE TIME God Is Good. (Right Susie and many others; like we used to say at WCC back in the day?)

Bought. Baht. now it is reality of opportunity. New unexpected anticipation. Joy. The seed is growing. The fertilization and watering accepted. The breaking of new ground and soil. Now for the growth above soil. IN ALL THINGS God IS HERE!

Boy has He ever been stretching me. It's TRUE.

After a drive to meditate

say Hello to daddy

leave a message for LT

a sweet text from my LOVER

a quick conversation with all of my daughters

a drive by an "Oh Parents . . . . ;-) " insider picture.

The windows rolled down and the soothing sweet smell of dew and an odd over cast drive that came to an ending at one of my new favorite spots.

Step out in soft drops of rain

walk in and order

pick a table by the window to feel the presence of someone very special.

The sound of the broom sweeping short brisk swaths

Then to read two books.

His presence is real

washed all over and through me.

We met He and I,

It took place Over a sweet tea with Lemon

an overcast day that had the ray of sun to warm while shining upon my face

reading two wonderful printed books

one which he personally wrote and the other well guided.

They both stimulated the thoughts and amazingly they both peeked my interests.

It awakened my soul and simultaneously brought realization

even more Ana - LOVE at all costs.

Thank You so much for allowing me to sit with You today ABBA!

Thank You for sitting with then speaking to me.

Thank You for holding my hand, my heart, my every portion - THANK YOU.

Thank You for the time to converse with YOU openly and sharing yourself freely with me.

Thank You for allowing me this week.

Thank You for the very breath you've granted.

Thank You for the many individuals who are in my life and those I will yet meet.

Laughter. Smiles. Music. Silence. Wind. Rain. Sun. Clouds. Human beings. Day. Night. Single. Married.

IN ALL THINGS - I WILL PRAISE YOU, I WILL LOVE.

Why?

Because YOU FIRST LOVED in the most catalyst way, for that I am ETERNALLY GRATEFUL. Jeremiah 33:3 is still showing me to keep learning and growing

~ IN ALL THINGS.

August 21, 2011 "DAILY BIBLE VERSE"

2011-08-21T16:49:00.002-05:00

AFTER READING TODAYS DAILY BIBLE VERSE I REALIZED I still have so much to continue to learn.

James 2:1 is what God is really convicting me of TODAY.

Here she goes again

2011-08-20T22:30:00.004-05:00

Wow . . . time flies But we LOVE ONE ANOTHER DEARLY!

Take Care Sweet Princess 1 - We're excited and thrilled for you.

"SHINE FOR JESUS!!!" Love Marmie

FIRST & LAST

2011-08-17T19:16:00.002-05:00

Em, My, Ti, Manaithy

I LOVE YOU ALL!!!

Shhhhh, Haddy is SLEEPING; the batteries were "recharging."

The First Day of School for THREE that involves FOUR of the FIVE!

It is also the Last time that we will have ONLY SISTERS on the First day of School!

I don't know whether the tear will fall from well . . .

I enjoyed taking this photo revealing the FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL.

Here is what is weird about it though:

It is the Last Year to have the three at the Highest level

A Senior

An Eighth grader

A Sixth grader

And the Last First day as a Single

WOWSIE!

Change.

Firsts AND Lasts

Seven Months Away

2011-08-17T19:10:00.002-05:00

Wow it is so hard to believe that we are only seven months away from a grand day. SEVEN.

The time is flying by so quickly. She radiates with Joy. He smiles grandly. Life is on the precept of CHANGE. Their first and lasts of many moments are taking place for them and will continue over the course of the next few months. I just pray that every takes a deep breath and enjoys all of them for it is full of excitement of the unknown. It is also a moment to never rush and push the Master, however a moment to give it ALL over to the King and Bathe everything in the BENDED KNEES of a servitude Heart FOCUS on the KINGDOM DIVIDENDS. Request and await the answers sought for what is BEST for the future that will very soon be the PRESENT.

Jeremiah 33:3

stop praying NEVER

2011-08-14T23:29:00.004-05:00

The one thing that makes Satan quiver with true fear is the power of the knees bending fully and trusting in the one and only true King of Jesus Christ!

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives. Colossians 1:9

The weaving of life

2011-08-11T08:05:00.003-05:00

Oi! Uh! Hola!

I miss this vocabulary! I so miss when time goes by so quickly and as one thinks about all the special individuals that have come into ones life the heart begins to see how wonderful people are! I agree that we all have our moments. I also agree that there are times that we just go absolutely crazy with our time. Whether we use it wisely or we waste it. We all have the same 24 hours; 7 days a week; 365 day in a year. We all desire to be Loved. Therefore shouldn't we Love back in return?

I ran into so many "past" relationships individuals this week it was amazing to not realize just how much we need to simply stop, take a breath and say "Hello" to those about us! Old, new, steady - make the moments of the now a sweet hello!

So to the individuals from Brazil - OI!!!!!!

To the Yanks in America - HI!

The loved ones in South America - HOLA!

To those from other locations I don't know the dialect - GREETINGS!

Grace and Peace to everyone of you! Know that Jesus Christ has an open invitation to have you be a part of the family! I am so glad that I have had YOU in my life, my tapestry and the loom that is allowing me to being weaved by the wonderful I AM - Thank You for how your touch is part of me. As Philippians express the words so wonderfully, I to am Thankful for you and how you've touched me.

To all of you - I just want to say "I Love YOU, from the bottom of My Liver!" - Ana

Wowsie, DISCIPLESHIP heart awakening

2011-08-09T16:14:00.001-05:00

Reposted from BabybeBlessed and off of

DiscipleBlog.com

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Walter A. Henrichsen writes, “Discipling must begin with our children if it is ever to affect the rest of our culture. Before we go looking for people to disciple, we should start with our own families. For a few short years, God has entrusted our children to our care. Whether for good or bad, we will mark them for eternity.”

The Bible directs us to: “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it” (Proverbs 22:6). Our primary goal is for our kids to love God – for them to learn to know Him, walk with Him and serve Him.

So, how do we begin discipling our children? Here are a few key principles that work!

Know God Intimately

God has given parents primary responsibility for the spiritual training of their children. But many parents don’t know where to begin. Proverbs 1:7 offers an insight: without knowledge and fear of the Lord, children cannot learn anything worthwhile. Education begins with the pursuit of God—who He is and what He is like.

Many children have only a vague understanding of God’s true nature. They have been exposed to ideas about God that may not match what the Bible says. Your kids can know God intimately. Introduce them to the Lord’s character and qualities. Explore each facet of His magnificent perfection!

Love God Passionately

Jesus summed up all 613 Old Testament laws into two: love God and love people (Mark 12:30-31). But beware of the simplicity of Jesus’ words. To love God with ALL the heart, soul, mind, and strength does not mean “business as usual.” Loving God demands effort, action, and passion.

Most children today love peer approval more than they love God. They are more concerned about “fitting in” than they care about being set apart for God’s special purpose. Your kids can love God passionately. Encourage them to enjoy His presence moment-by-moment throughout the day. Determine not to lose touch with God’s Spirit. Express adoration and delight in unbroken communion with Him!

Serve God Selflessly

Most kids serve themselves before they consider the needs of others. Selfishness is natural—part of being human. But God extends a higher calling to His followers. The Lord challenges Christians to demonstrate faithful conduct that honors God and helps people. This requires supernatural strength from the indwelling Christ (Galatians 2:20).

Lift your child’s eyes from his or her own interests to see the world from God’s point-of-view. Christ has promised to meet all our needs (Philippians 4:19). That is His job. Our job is to walk by faith, serving Him in all we do. Your kids can serve God selflessly. They will usually follow the example of their parents and influential teachers. When you model selflessness, your children will respond in kind!

Celebrate God’s Greatness Together

God is the focus of the entire universe. He enjoys being Lord of the heavens and the earth! God also deserves to occupy the central focus in the minds, hearts, and souls of every human being. Life begins and ends with Him. Determine to know God on a more intimate basis each year. The better you know Him, the better you and your children will be prepared to face life’s challenges. Celebrate God’s greatness together!

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Let's disciple! Our kids are SO WORTH IT!

We wouldn't send our soldiers out to battle without proper training or weapons! They would be destroyed or fall in the hands of the enemy in the blink of an eye...so why would we send our children out in the battle field of this world? Let's give them the proper training and the proper weapon (Sword of the Spirit -God's word) to fight in this world! This all starts and ends at home. The church can only do so much and is designed to walk along side the parent.

One day we will stand before God and give an account of what He has entrusted to us. Our children are our biggest blessing, privilege and gift from the Lord.

Let's pray together and seek God's direction. He is FAITHFUL and will show us how to disciple our children. Yes there will be many mistakes along the way...He knows we are but dust, but oh how He loves us and simply desires every single thing mentioned above....

I've mentioned this before...but may we as parents LIVE OUT OUR FAITH in front of our children!! The good, bad, the ugly.... and the Grace that only comes from Christ!

to date or not to date . . . That is the question!

2011-08-09T15:44:00.003-05:00

wow my mind was quickly put in amazement of something that Kent and I have often tried to share and show individuals. But after seeing a twitter . . . well let me just let you read for your self.

"Tips for soon-to-be college students: If your dating relationship doesn't honor God, your marriage probably won't either." Scot Irwin twitter.

Hey I was am sitting here and reflecting on many things. Like I have a daughter who is getting married. The journey to this point a bit bumpy at moments in the latter; however, I can not tell you how many times these knees have bended and fervent equity in prayer has been taken very seriously. And the quote from our college minister/dear family friend hit the nail on the head. It is not just college students who need to take heed of this quote but Human beings all together.

Why because it all stems from the heart. Soul. Integrity. Character. Morals. Ethics. Thoughts that only expose the heart of reality of the human being are exposed. Jeremiah says: " The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?" Jeremiah 17:9

We need to realize that God is Amazing and the things of God are AMAZING with him as the FOCUS !!!!

When, where and why

2011-08-05T16:32:00.003-05:00

When did I arrive to today? Where did the time go? Why can't the moments of sheer joy and pleasure last much longer then just a nano second?

Human beings, not human doings are so very precious! As I grow a little older I realize that time is very very precious! I can not even begin to comprehend the magnitude of the moment of the present because it is just so "quick" It is so amazing to me the rapidness of it all.

I want so much to experience so many different things that it just blows my mind.

So much has simply flooded the electrodes of the neurological processing of my very simple yet completely complex thought process. I think until it almost hurts and at other times just enjoy the immeasurable moments of solitude.

The momentary wonders of it all just absolutely blow my mind. The beginning of. The middle of. The end of. WOWSIE!

When did "he see you/me?" From before it all began. Where did it matter that it was meant to be? At the creations beginning. Why did he want it to be? Because WE/YOU/I am his "Master Piece" He has ALWAYS had YOU in mind! ALWAYS!!!!!

I am just in AWE today of the magnitude of His Grace to include us (YOU/ME) in His ultimate Plan!!!!!!! May you know that you are HIS When, Where and Why with every intention and that you are NOT a mistake!!!

One week later

2011-07-30T17:14:00.001-05:00

Have you ever had a week that simply just flew by and absolutely AMAZED YOU? Oh my goodness gracious great balls of fire!!! Yeah!

taste and see

2011-07-23T06:27:00.002-05:00

I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. My should will boast in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the LORD with me; Let us exalt his name together.

I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.

Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. Fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing. The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.

Come, my children, listen to me' I will teach you the fear of the LORD. Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, KEEP YOUR TONGUE FROM EVIL AND YOUR LIPS FROM SPEAKING LIES. TURN FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD' SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT.

The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their cry; the face of the LORD is against those who do evil, to cut off the memory of them from the earth.

The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

a righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken (reference to Christ). Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned. The LORD redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him.

Psalm 34

There is so much meat in this Psalm. Refreshment like no other. Remember, much like I've recently been reminded; Your value is not found in man, your job, your doings, but ONLY in the LORD, JESUS CHRIST and the guiding of the HOLY SPIRIT! He is the rock. The I AM. Jehovah Jirah - our Provider; in ALL THINGS, that means EVERYTHING!

Remember it said "Taste and see that the LORD is good; BLESSED is the man who takes refuge IN HIM. Fear the LORD, you his saints (believers), for those who fear him lack no good thing." verse 8

So Taste him today and BELIEVE in the reformation of a NEW DAY called your TODAY to live for HIM!

Blessings to you! With all my LOVE, "From the Bottom of My LIVER!!!" ;-)

wrong

2011-07-22T20:51:00.002-05:00

With this fresh new day I realized that I am wrong. Boy it seems the older I get the more that I am. Ha - note to self, remember what Jesus Christ has done for me and extend that example in my own walk. Why because I realize that I need the Savior more and more every day. Because I realize even more so that I have yet a lot to grow on and through.

His ways are much higher than my ways. I also see that I have quite a bit of selfishness to remove from my life. Also that Satan is a liar. Note to self - remember that; and live with my Faith by leaning more and more on Jesus Christ.

So it is okay to say, I was and am wrong. I'm sorry. Will you forgive me?

Todays' revelation through conviction.

2011-07-22T08:10:00.003-05:00

"Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit (Only those honest with God receive pardon. NIV study bible). When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Selah

Then I acknowledged my sins to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ' I will confess my transgressions to the Lord' - and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah

Therefore, let everyone who is godly pray to you while you may be found; surely when the mighty waters rise, they will not reach him. You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah

I will instruct you to teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. Do not be like the horse of the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD'S unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him. Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!' Psalm 32

This morning this is where my reading ended and it just reminds me of how sweet his mercy and Grace is to me and I deserve none of either really. Therefore, today is a day to rejoice and be very heartfelt thankful for what he is granting.

Live at peace with the Lord and seek guidance through Jesus Christ and be led by the Holy Spirit. Love Ya

THe memory of a life time

2011-07-21T00:20:00.003-05:00

Every mother is looking forward to the day that they get to see their "baby" grow up and get married. Well Oh my goodness that is getting reedy to happen and it is wonderful.

My heart stopped a beat with many mixed emotions when I received the phone call. My breath still and the then the wonderful drive home after picking her up to hear all the details gave my heart an extra beat. The clients I met made me smile and the joy to ride back home arriving shortly after midnight seemed like only like normal when their is excitement in the air.

Her story. Her smile. Imagine the thoughts, excitement and anticipation of his request. JOY.

Catching up on everything and the tears that rolled down my cheeks pure JOY. It's here. The moment of seeing the excitement of what will be here before we know it.

All I could say after it was sinking in, "It's Your Day, Enjoy every moment of it. It doesn't matter, for it's both of YOUR DAY, It's YOUR DAY!" I imagined what it would be like to sit along and soak it all in an just allow her to smile, giggle, sigh, and ramble on to allow her to ENJOY the moment. :-)

Then today . . . . Taking the day off of work to spend it with all of the understanding and comprehending Princesses to go on another stupendous adventure then capture it on film!!!!! AWEMAZING (I'm aware of the incorrect spelling but I was definitely in AWE!) can not even begin to explain what it was like. However, I will cherish this moment to "Ooooo and Ahhhhh" and sigh deeply with ecstatic thrill. She radiated today and We tried to capture it all on film. And amazingly we found it - we definitely FOUND IT! Bought it! Then she Called with Her excitement to Him. :-) Here we go - JOY found through Jesus Christ and so many answered Prayers!

She radiated in a glow that was leaving us speechless. Breath taking. (maybe even stopping). She rang the Bell and will "always here them from this day forward!" Because they walk in Jesus Christ, separately and soon united as one! Praise the Lord. We are inheriting a son.

All I can say is that the drive, the Panera drinks and cookies and the wait for all these years . . . . PRICELESS!!!!

Thank You M, T, F and E for a stupendous day of a memory made and the moment to enjoy the season in preparation! I can't reveal to you anything other than it is B E A U TIFUL absolutely precious what today imprinted on my heart with full gratitude then to end it with a Celebration with J's Birthday Surprise.

Thank You Lord for a glorious Day that out weighs what brought us to today.

A son

2011-07-19T08:31:00.006-05:00

"May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. We will shout for JOY when you are victorious and will lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the Lord grant all your requests." Psalm 20:4-5

Oh my, Oh my the joy of receive after numerous years of PRAYING. Yes the JOY of hugging a young man that is my inherited son to be and his family a godly family. If they only knew how I have prayed over ALL of them for specifically - HE IS AMAZING how HE ANSWERS ALL OF THOSE PRAYERS! Since the moment each have been conceived; and it was made our breath of knowledge, this has been my prayer and now it it HERE.

I have prayed for him and prayed for him and prayed for him. I have prayed over his entire family and it brings such tears of incredible JOY to see and hear those prayers answered. Especially after getting to be all ears and hear a part of that joy last night on our way home it was wonderful to share in their JOY last night in full !!!!!! I am thrilled for them and what lies ahead! Thank You Perian and Rodney for raising him up the way you have, and the heritage that you have given for their future - Blessings to you all!!!!

May the Lord watch over them and keep them in the most precious spot of his heart and protect them in their new journey.

Congratulations Mya and Jordan - with all my love - BLESSINGS to you!

wow and Todays' scripture verses! AMAZING

Luke 6:31 "Do to others as you would have them do to you!" May They both know how much I LOVE THEM~!!!!! May they both know how TRULY EXCITED I AM FOR THEM!

Geeeeeeesh

2011-07-17T22:06:00.001-05:00

OH MY GEEEEEESH!!!!!

Yup that's all folks, OH MY GEEEEESH!!!!

"Look to the LORD and his strength; see his face always. Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced." I Chronicles 16;11-12

HOME they're coming home

2011-07-16T16:27:00.004-05:00

SHE'S HOME SOON!

Oh my goodness, both are traveling and soon to be HOME!

One back on home soil, one travel through home soil - - - - I am just glad they are returning.

Missions, Serving, Challenged, Changed, New set of eyes, New set of outlook - HIS forever.

I say again, "SHE's coming HOME!!!!" referring to two returning from to different destinations.

This mama says,

"Love ya CHICKAS! I'm so glad I get to see you both soon!"

HOME

2011-07-16T16:27:00.001-05:00

One of my SHE'S HOME SOON!

Oh my goodness, this is wild both are traveling and soon to be HOME!

I say again, "SHE's coming HOME!!!!"

Love ya CHICKAS!

Freedom

2011-07-16T12:33:00.000-05:00

www.primerica.com/arklundt

Primerica Scam - The Real Picture

2011-07-15T11:07:00.000-05:00

I believe in giving individuals the opportunities to be able to be properly protected, debt free and financially independent. If that interests you, I would love to connect with you.

www.primerica.com/arklundt

However FREEDOM BEGINS HERE!!!

2011-07-15T10:17:00.004-05:00

Okay so the past few blogs I've been writing about freedom or life's freedoms but here is something so dear to my heart. That is why I am a Christian FIRST and then my way in Primerica is my career and my passion for ministry lives in my being. Because I live with truth being taught in and through my life in a time where many think of only self. Boy has it been stretching me in a great way. So here is another thought to the root of my life and where true freedom begins.

"But I will truss in your UNFAILING LOVE; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, for he has been good to me." Psalm 13:5-6

"Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart and has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman, who despises a vile man but honors those who fear the LORD, who keeps his oath even when it hurts, who lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken." Psalm 15

Oh to live true FREEDOM comes only through the Grace that is like an ocean! OH come, drink in the FREEDOM of Christ that sets our (mine and yours) souls FREE! As an American we think we are free but the only ones really and truly free are those whose walk is honestly and fully in JESUS CHRIST. The Lord is a release of the anguish that this world will let you think is freedom, however, to be in a real relationship with the Lord, Jesus Christ is to be able to withstand all things that come your way no matter what comes in the walk of life.

I have drawn upon this since March of 2009 through the present which has upheld me time after time after time. In the good times and the times that seemed like they could be devastating - HE has granted the reality of FREEDOM through the beauty and the storm of life when I think of Him, I AM FREE! And have been since March 18, 1984. I WILL PRAISE THE LORD FOR THE FREEDOM BEGINS HERE - in a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ!

So how about it? Would you like to be a part of that freedom? The invitation's open to you, come. Oh yeah and don't forget about "today's bible reading"

"You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possible dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us!" Romans 5:6-8

FREEDOM DOES BEGIN HERE!!!!

Freedom Lives Here

2011-07-14T22:45:00.000-05:00

I am looking for seven to ten key people who are Entrepreneur minded and focused on doing what is right for people.

www.primerica.com/arklundt

Freedom Lives Here - My Career

2011-07-14T15:10:00.002-05:00

Let's be good stewards of what the Lord has given us in all areas of our lives.

"In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, 'You have faith; I have deeds.' Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do." James 2:17-18

Contact me, our company is growing exponentially.

www.primerica.com/arklundt

Walk by Faith

2011-07-13T23:01:00.003-05:00

So many times we say we have faith but we wimp out. We coward at the fall of what others think, or MIGHT think. Or give to much credence to the "what if's" that never really happen or the "hypothetical" exercising excuses for reality of nothing more than "what if".

Yikes. I am being challenged in so many things and so many steps during the life I live. I am a simpleton; with a heart desiring to please God. The ONLY TRUE GOD - YahWeh, Adoni - JEHOVAH! I AM.

"Therefore boldly declare what God says you have, and He will accomplish what you believe. You must, however, exhibit genuine faith and trust HIM with your entire being. Crumbs

'We Must be willing to live by faith, not hoping or desiring to live any other way. We must be willing to have every light around us extinguished to have every star in the heavens blotted out, and to live with nothing encircling us but darkness and danger. Yes, we must be wiling to do all this, if God will only leave within our soul an inner radiance from the pure, bright light that faith has kindled. Thomas C. Upham ' "

Therefore, (What is it there for?) well let me tell you;

"Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. " Romans 5:1-ff

Words of Encouragement for Honduras ;-)

2011-07-13T22:39:00.005-05:00

" He knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold. Job 23:10

Faith grows during storms. These are just four little words, but what significance they have to someone who has endured life-threatening storms!

'Faith is that God-given ability that, when exercised, brings the unseen into plain view. It deals with the supernatural and makes impossible things possible. And yes, it grows during storms-that is it grows through disturbances in the spiritual atmosphere. Storms are caused by conflicts between the physical elements, and the storms of the spiritual world are conflicts with super natural, hostile elements. and it is in this atmosphere of conflicts that faith finds its most fertile soil and grows most rapidly to maturity.

' The strongest trees are found not in the thick shelter of the bear down upon them. The fierce winds bend and twist them until they become giant in stature. these are the trees that toolmakers seek for handles for their tools, because of the wood's great strength.

' It is the same in the spiritual world. Remember, when you see a person of great spiritual stature, the road you must travel to walk with him is not one where the sun always shines and wildflowers always bloom. Instead, the way is a steep, rocky and narrow path, where the winds of hell will try to knock you off your feet, and where sharp rocks will cut you, prickly thorns will scratch your face, and poisonous snakes will slither and hiss all around you.

' The path of faith is one of sorrow and joy, suffering and healing comfort, tears and smiles, trials and victories, conflicts and triumphs, and also hardships, dangers, beatings, persecutions, misunderstanding, trouble, and distress. Yet "in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us' Romans 8:37.

' Yes, 'in all these' - even during storms, when the winds are the most intense- 'we are more than conquerors.' You may be tempted to run from the ordeal of a fierce storm of testing but head straight for it! God is there to meet you in the center of each trial. And he will whisper to you His secrets, which will bring you out with a radiant face and such an invincible faith that all the demons of hell will never be able to shake it.

E.A. Kilbourne (Streams in the Desert)' "

The Theory of Decreasing Responsibility

2011-07-12T13:05:00.002-05:00

http://www.primerica.com/arklundt

WANNA BE FREE???? DEBT FREE.

2011-07-12T13:01:00.003-05:00

Super Saver Tip #1 Reduce big-ticket items. Since the majority of us spend the most on housing (26% of income) and transportation (14%),[1] it makes sense to focus on trimming these areas first. Many super savers buy more modest homes than they can actually afford. For example, if you buy a $200,000 house rather than a $300,000, you’ll save $6,444 a year (not counting property taxes and insurance).[2] While downsizing to a smaller home saves you the most over time, selling these days may be tough. For a simpler way to save, focus on your next biggest expense: your car. Driving it after the loan is paid off can save you about $1,670 a year (based on skipping new-car payment and typical ownership costs for a five-year-old car).[3] Could your household get by with one car? Even better.

Super Saver Tip #2 Save, or invest any windfalls – including tax refunds.This year, about 66% are planning to save or invest their refund.[4] Make sure you are among them: If you turned last year’s average refund of $3,003[5] into a $250 monthly investment compounded monthly for 35 years, you could have $357,958 if you earned 6%, or up to $1.6 million if you earned a 12% rate of return (see chart). That’s a sum that could significantly improve your retirement – long after a new chair or other item you could have bought has been given away.

Super Saver Tip #3 Don’t buy anything until you can pay cash. Period. Not only do you avoid the burden of more credit card debt and costly interest, but you’ll spend less—approximately 10-35% less than those who pay with debit or credit card.[6] That’s instant cash you can stash into savings.

Super Saver Tip #4 Set Manageable Goals. Don’t overwhelm yourself with a list of 10 things to accomplish all at once. Set your priorities. For example, start building up an emergency fund by putting $50 a month into savings. Or pay more than the minimum on your lowest balance credit card. Or, start contributing monthly to an Individual Retirement Account.

Super Saver Tip #5 Make Saving Automatic. All the smart spending in the world won’t help unless you invest your savings. Most super savers know this, so they let computers do the work and automate their savings. For example, set 5% of your paycheck to go automatically into a retirement plan. Ask your Primerica representative about how you can get started saving in an Individual Retirement Account for as little as $50 a month.

Super Saver Tip #6 Take on Extra Work – and Stash the Cash. You’ve set your savings goals, trimmed your expenses and are still coming up short. What’s a wannabe super saver to do? Take matters into your own hands and get aggressive about reaching your goals. Is there a way to turn your talents and interests into part-time cash? Consider tutoring, childcare or taking on a part-time job. If you’re interested in learning more about financial goal-setting and helping families with their finances, talk to your Primerica representative about the part-time opportunity. It’s a great way to educate yourself and take your savings to the next level!

written by: Amy Wilson

questions? contact www.primerica.com/arklundt

A Firsthand Report on the Joplin Tornado

2011-07-11T13:47:00.000-05:00

So what is your microphone?

A Firsthand Report on the Joplin Tornado

Jesus IS REAL, Joplin will be renewed on wings like eagles

Press forward and BE the Hands and FEET of Jesus Christ! Like I was challenged by a

still small voice that shared, "I heard on my way to church this morning something that made me think,

What would I be If my heart was solidified RIGHT NOW?"

So What would my life be speaking if it were to speak into a microphone

at the state it is in right now in a solidified form? Is there enough evidence in my life

right now that it would be solidified for Jesus Christ - For all eternal purposes.

The world is watching. What cost am I willing to step into for HIS NAME for the world is always

ready to "watch".

A place of Rest

2011-07-11T13:05:00.003-05:00

A place of Rest.

What permeates your mind and thought when someone inquires; What do you call a place of Rest?

A location?

A state of being?

Happy place?

Quiet? Solitude?

Noise filled area?

Many People?

What?

For me it is deep with in my soul! Only HE can grant me a fulfilled place of rest. Fully one hundred fold percent of the time! There is no where other. No way other. No human being can fill that place - Only the Creator Himself in the rest of salvation through Jesus Christ. Everything else - useless. Jesus Christ and true salvation = PRICELESS!

He is everything that truly encompasses a "Place of Rest!"

It can be in all avenues that we may stretch our proverbial hands out to reach but only in HIM is there rest. Oh there are moments. Yeah. However, only fully filled in the arms of Jesus Christ. Why? Because we are created for a purpose. We ARE SOMEBODY! We are worthy of His Glory through our lives.

I know I have been on a kick lately of "life being but a flicker" and it is so true. We all wanna be LOVED and not alone. We are have with in us the desire to "BE SOMEBODY" and when we are willing to work through the obstacles of life it can be possible to reach it. But are we truly willing to give it all it takes? ARE WE?

We may want to quit at times. Keep striving forward. Lies from the evil one will permeate our thinking. Keep pressing on. We may get scrapped up, cut up or become weary, press on!

Even on the HIGHEST of HIGH and the LOWEST OF LOWS only a place of true rest comes by grabbing the hands of Jesus Christ and fully surrendering our hearts and lives to Him! THE I AM! That grants you the "You are my MASTERPIECE." With Excellence in MIND.

YOU MY FRIEND ARE NO MISTAKE! Pick up today and know there is a place of REST waiting for YOU! Go Forward and walk the incredible journey to live out your LIFE in the FULL to BE ALL YOU CAN BE for HIS GLORY and EDIFICATION!

Enjoy your place of rest.

In the wake - clear vision part 2

2011-07-10T16:21:00.010-05:00

Did you know "the National Weather Service in Springfield, Missouri, later determined the killer tornado’s path was 13.8 miles long and just shy of 1 mile at its widest. At last tally, the nation’s deadliest tornado in 60 years claimed 153 lives, injured 1,150 people, destroyed 8,000 homes, mangled 18,000 vehicles, demolished 400 businesses, and displaced 5,000"

Christian Standard

This is where it hit me I couldn't remember my bearings.

As we headed to see Bethy, "not far away from this point."

"My, it should be right around here where I remember we need to turn."

Just two and a half blocks away to the north;

This is where I turn to see Bethy. I didn't recognize the turn.

from here south . . . total devistation.

After a wonderful visit with Beth heading back east before turning south.

heading south from twentith on main.

above is just a bit east of hospital

heading east .. . .

A kitchen is all that was left standing.

Joplin High: above and below

These trees below. . . where once bear. However, now they and many

others have begun new life and growth.

I think, this may be the apartments complexes where Bri may have lived

Bri, from House of Hope lost her place of residence,

car and belongings but her heart is filled with

life that is amazing!

Jeremiah 33:3

We prayed with her and her boyfriend and what lies ahead.

We still need to give our support to Joplin and the people;

through prayer and giving in anyway possible.

"THERE WILL BE A DAY" (Official)

2011-07-09T01:00:00.000-05:00

Laura Story - Blessings

2011-07-07T01:33:00.000-05:00

In the wake - clear vision

2011-07-06T23:28:00.004-05:00

Wow, what a day. I can not even begin to tell you what has gone on and in my life. Yet here we are again on this crazy thing called "blogging" allowing others in to whom I am and what is taking place in what is my mist.

The devotion this morning amazing! Absolutely AMAZING. It is so fitting to what is swirling around in this moment of a "flicker" ( I believe it is so real and true - this flicker of time ). I believe I will just encourage you to go and get it and read it for yourself. It came from the scriptures and then from the book/devotional: Streams in the Desert WOW!

(I'll show pictures later - added on asap)

I have been pulled like salt water taffy to the point it felt like it would all just tear apart. However, it never has. It was a time to sit in the overcast day with a splash of sunshine and an soft gentle breeze, ever so gentle. Then the still small voice. Let me A_ _, gently guide you.

A.C.T.S. and then a ride through town.

A small stop.

A gust of wind.

A visit.

A conference call.

The vibration of attention (3 hours later).

A text.

pause. . . . . . tears.

Revisit to prayer.

Release.

possible restoration.

deep breath in.

quite disbelief and the beginning.

smile.

QUITE.

gentle breeze, eyes closed, vision heaven focused.

joy in the storm.

Storm of life.

Personal.

Storm of aftermath & actual literal location.

Joplin.

New life and chance for growth.

both.

As Mymy and I drove to and through Joplin the tears just kept coming. It all came flooding. Final emotions - healing. bottled up emotions kept at bay - tears; they just kept rolling. My eyes beheld indescribable to articulate in words. My heart beat differently.

Lately in the midst of the efforts of reconstruction - it felt like what was being seen physically and experiential living mirrored one another. However, there was and is PEACE. Much to be unleashed and released. The gate unlocked. Squeaked. Slowly opening to the other side. Rushing to bubble over with unexpected cleansing.

The one thing that stood out today. We all are like the nature in the trees I saw today. There are moments when we feel exposed, stripped of everything, and left bear to all the "elements" yet something strange. Strange. Bright. Green. Fresh in the wake of unbelievable destruction - the ability to breathe. With an exhale then inhale - life again. pruning, watering, feeding - a ray of sunshine. the breeze across the face. felt like a precious and sincere kiss that warms to the core in the depths of the soul. healing. New living organisms - a Genesis.

Yeah - This entire day gave these eyes newness and a fresh spirit. The long over due awaited and anticipated time to reveal with longing for a very long time - a time for restorations. Only by His LOVE. Now growing to give through my love.

His time.

Today.

A New day.

Great quote of thought

2011-07-05T21:17:00.002-05:00

I am sitting her editing a piece for someone PRESH and in his piece: has brought some great thought to meditate one.

"I'm not sure what mistakes you have made. I don't know what sinful memories are etched in your cerebral cortex. And I have no idea what failures form guilt around your life. But I don know this: God has not given up on you. He can't It's not in His nature. There are moments in our lives wen we fail so badly that we feel absolutely unworthy to receive the grace of God. And it is those moments of vulnerability that make us or break us spiritually. Either we lock ourselves in a cage of guilt and never come out, or we discover new dimensions of Gods grace that enable us to become a kingdom worker with big ideas.

"Post denial Peter had a been living in his guilt for several weeks when he was recommissioned by post-Resurrection Jesus. And the way it happened was no coincidence. John 1:15-17. . . . It was a reminder of his re-commissioning that produced feeling of gratitude. It gives a heart to seek after Him and become a kingdom worker. Think of it this way:

"Sin - Grace = Guilt

"Sine + Grace = Gratitude" by (to be revealed Mid July)

The joy of a fun filled day

2011-07-05T20:51:00.002-05:00

"Oh my Geessh" ( i honor of Mya and Jen). We had a very full day yesterday but well worth it all.

We had our kickoff for VBS, 8 - 12:ish & then off towards home to celebrate. We got everything put together while wishing all our loved ones we weren't able to be with our love. On our way to celebrate with another family. It was a blast. I only wish I would have remembered my camera battery ready to shoot only to realize I put right next to the camera before gathering the food and FORGOT IT. So it will just have to be recollected in our hearts and our Memories. The funny one liner: "OH my Geeesh mom, Look at all the red hair in this family" ;-) I laughed when I was talking with Shannon that beside immediate "units" they all were not biologically related!!!! :-) But you would have thought they were. Brunettes were oddly out numbered. ;-)

So lots' of laughs, new memories, wonderful fellowship, plenty of swimming which we haven't had the opportunity to experience this summer so our girls LOVED the water time and fun. Even Hadassah has had fun being like a fish Friday and Monday in two separate private pool festivities! Goodness we made rekindled fun and then met wonderful new families that were absolute joys. It made for a great day then off to home to experience plenty of fireworks and our our display of sparklers. We needed that fun joy of being together. ;-)

So I pray your Independence Day brought warmth to your heart and he enjoyment of of being together in celebration.

Have a great time the rest of what is now your "today" and cease the moments. Time is fleeting so enjoy.

The 2011 July 4 - Monday

2011-07-04T22:33:00.002-05:00