Mornin' Thoughts

No Good Deed Goes Unpunished...

2011-08-07T13:04:00.009-06:00

It was raining like crazy and I was hungry, so I was giving serious consideration to a Texas muffin from the vending machine. Bad idea. But thankfully I was saved from myself by a ringing phone. It went downhill from there.

Most of the people who work at our company are legally or totally blind, so transportation is a huge issue. I've forgotten to give non-drivers messages a couple of times in 29+ years and I can tell you I feel almost as rotten as they feel mad. Being transportation-challenged myself, I take such things seriously.

Back to the story...The husband of one of my employees said he was broken down and he wanted me to find his wife who was still on the property. He had tried her cell phone, but it kept going to voicemail. I said, "Sure. What do you want me to tell her when I find her?" He suggested she call her nephew to pick her up.

Off I go to deliver the message and wouldn't you know the trek takes me right by the vending machine?! But I'm on a mission; maybe then a muffin as a reward? Obviously the wife is not inside the building. Do you know what rain sounds like on a tin roof? Now imagine what a monsoon sounds like...and I'm going out in that?

I push the steel door open an inch and get a face full of water, so I step back and regroup. The glasses come off and go in one pocket. The watch comes off and goes in the other. I take a deep breath and step outside. With what I thought was a firm grasp on the door, I yelled toward the weather shelter. And then it happened. The monsoon wind yanked the door from my hand and slammed it shut...LOCKED.

I wish I could take take a moment to think, during which time the door would magically open. It ain't gonna happen. And this is not a pouring-straight-down rain storm. The wind is whipping the rain in all directions. I'm under an awning and already drenched to the bone. There's no help for it; I'll have to walk around to the front of the building.

I walked to the end of the sidewalk and yelled again. Thankfully she heard me and I relayed the message. Now I have to make my way around the building. Did I mention I'm blind? Okay, it probably took about a minute instead of the 45 minutes that it felt like. I didn't fall down, for which I can only thank Jesus.

You know how hard the air conditioner works to cool in this kind of heat and you still feel hot? It's a lot cooler when you're soaking wet. I was making little puddles with ever step I took, so I knew I couldn't sit down in my office. Paper towels had to suffice for the dripping hair. And I did wring a half cup of water out of my blouse. But nothing help the wet jeans. Now that's not a good feeling; wet jeans are heavy and clingy.

I'd like to stop and give a Shout-Out to the people who make Merrill shoes. While I was drenched from the top of my head to my ankles (not a dry thread on me, as they say) my feet were completely dry!!! Thank you, Merrill folks!!!

You know, for about 30 seconds after I refused to put my hand between the wind-driven steel door and the steel door frame I was very angry at myself. Then I stopped and considered that no real damage was done. I might rust, but I wouldn't melt. It was RAINING, which we so badly needed. The temperature had dropped about 20 degrees. And more importantly, the employee got a ride who picked her up within 15 minutes. Several good things did happen, and there was no punishment - only a little discomfort. Now what's that verse? Oh, yeah. And we know that God causes all things to work for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 (NASB)

Family Doin's

2011-07-23T15:33:00.006-06:00

Our Sunday school lessons this quarter are from Jeremiah. In this week's lesson God has Jeremiah write a letter to the Hebrews who were already in exile. The letter was to encourage the exiles in their current circumstances. He told them to build houses, marry, have children, and support and pray for their communities. In other words, He wanted them to re-establish some normalcy while they waited for God to bring them back to their homeland.

After a season of tension and uncertainty, I'm getting some balance back in my life...especially in the 'family' department. The last 2 weeks have been filled with family activities.

First, the kids and kidlettes took Terry & me to Mountain View, Arkansas. We really like that place. We had 2 cabins within walking distance of the square so there was lots of trekking around. And early morning coffee on the front porch is a nice way to start the day. But don't let anyone tell you it's cooler in the mountains. The day we left the temp was 101*. We had a great time, though and it was the greatest gift ever.

For the last several years, Terry's siblings and their families have gotten together one Saturday in July. It's always such a great visit that lasts all afternoon and into the evening. There are some really good cooks in the Peters family!! Oh! The highlight of the day for most of the kids was the horse ride. A very gentle, very old horse was perfect for the smaller children and they seemed to love the experience.

Sunday afternoon we had a family b'day party for Tucker at our house. He suffers from Lego-mania so his Aunt Laurie made him a cake that looked like a giant Lego block. Too cute. And a happy Tucker got lots of $$ for his birthday.

Thursday evening we joined Tommy & Nancy (Katey's in-laws) in their 45th anniversacelebration at Romie's Grocery - a misnomer, if ever I heard one. They have some really fine food. Again, a time of fellowship with blended family.

We really are blessed that holidays and family celebrations include in-laws and outlaws who love each other and get along. My return to normalcy and balance is working out very well. My sanity seems to be intact. (You laugh?) And there are certain to be more challenges to my routine, but I'm refreshed and relaxed from all the family time. That should help!!

Divine Laughter

2011-07-02T17:05:00.007-06:00

I have a friend who knows you and I was wondering if you know him. His name is Jesus. I'd been going to church for a long time and I knew of him, but I didn't know him until I was 19 years old. You see, I followed some friends down the church aisle during revival when I was 10. I spent the next 9 years trying to figure out the next thing I could do to try to please him because the last thing I had tried hadn't worked.

One Wednesday night during prayer meeting, on my knees, I tried to rededicate my life to Jesus Christ. He spoke very clearly to me, saying, "You can't rededicate what you've never dediccated." And in that moment I surrendered and Jesus took over. What a relief! What a joy! What a peace! And all that can be yours!

There's something else you can think about. We're told in the Bible that the angels rejoice when someone surrenders their life to the only Way, Truth and Life - Jesus - who gave his all to make that possible. With all he gave, I wonder if there's more to the heavenly rejoicing...

He's waiting for you; he's sent his Spirit to work on your heart to draw you to him. He's sitting there beside the Father...waiting. Then Jesus sees the door to your heart open in surrender and he smiles; then he grins from ear to ear. And then...He SHOUTS with glorious, divine laughter born of victory, joy and undying love! For a moment all the hosts of heaven stands in stunned silence at the beauty of that laughter. Then they, too, begin to laugh, sing and praise God in joyous thanksgiving that another soul has surrendered to "joy unspeakable and full of glory"! Divine laughter - it's how Jesus' love for you sounds.

I have a friend who knows you and I was wondering if you know him. His name is Jesus!

Mountain-High / Valley-Low

2011-05-21T12:19:00.016-06:00

Mine is a simple mind; the obvious sometimes eludes me. If our lives were made up of mountain peaks, how would we know? The valleys are a must if we are to know the wonder of the mountaintop. I know this because the last several months have been filled with both.

There have been some unusual and challenging times at work, but it's been that way for the last 16 years. Believe me, I've learned some hard lessons during my time as leader of an average of 45 people in a manufacturing setting. First, if you have more than one person working in a business, there will be personality differences; learn to deal with it. Second, pick your battles; no one can fight all the battles and have enough energy to fight the ones that really matter. Third, be sure to have a friend who will let you vent, keep all your confidences AND hold you accountable.

One thing you can count on when on the mountain - SNOW. And we had some beautiful snows in January and February. But April brought deadly tornados and May brought devastating floods. See, there are even highs and lows in the weather.

As a family we rushed to Molly's side when she had 2 serious seizures. And we mourn, even now, the passing of our friend, Tony, who died much too soon. We prayed as we awaited tests results which would reveal whether our cousin had multiple sclerosis. Today Molly is doing much better on meds. Tony's death has been another time for God to show His glory as we looked back on his life and the impact he had on all of us. And my cousin doesn't have MS!!

Our church family has seen the home-going of several precious saints. Their absence has left a hole in our hearts, but we know we will see them one day. We've also seen God heal some folks here on earth. We celebrate with those who are in remission, and we love on the ones whose health becomes more precarious by the day.

There have been two very personal mountain-high experiences for me. On Palm Sunday morning the BBC choir, orchestra and audio folks led us in worship through the musical, Love Is Alive. Those who know me, know that music touches my soul and spirit in a way only God can manage. And this past Thursday morning as I read Psalm 15 and Isaiah 40, I released a burden that has caused me much pain over the past months. In Isaiah 40 I saw the greatness of God and was reminded that He is sovereign and nothing happens without His directive or permissive will. I was also reminded that I cannot change other people; I can pray for them, but that power of change is not in me. In Psalm 15 I was reminded that there is a particular way that God calls me to live and I will do better to work on that in the power of the Holy Spirit and leave the heart-changing work in others to the One who can handle it.

The release of this burden to my Holy Father was a freeing experience. As my pastor told me weeks ago, there was a mighty warfare going on over me and it was making me sick. Now I can smile and laugh again; major irritations are now only minor and better laughed at than cried over. I think Chuck Swindoll was quoting someone else when he said something to the effect that Peace is that moment between battles when both sides stop to reload. I don't doubt the devil will try to create havoc in my life again; he hates that we love Jesus and want to be like Him. But God has given me this respite to rest in Him and reload through His word and prayer.

Mountain-Highs and Valley-Lows. They're the stuff of this earthly life. But with Paul we say, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14 (NASB)

Important Things

2011-04-16T07:40:00.017-06:00

There was no single point that screamed, "WATCH OUT!" This week started out like most other weeks. Because the paths of our lives are never completely flat and smooth (who'd want that?), I really didn't notice that the grade was mostly downhill until it got steeper and I had trouble keeping my footing. Before I knew it the steep downhill grade had become a slippery slope and Friday morning found me going over the cliff. Dealing with personnel issues is a challenge, but Tuesday brought three very surprising and unusual, uh, people-problems. Sending an employee home with a cold (he works with food-condtact items), having a grown man leave in tears and finding a ride home for an hallucinating employee would tax the wits of anyone. Then, there are shipping issues. Do you deal with longhaul carriers? Enough said? Usually the brokers, dispatchers and drivers are salt-of-the-earth people willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. And at other times, well, l et's just say that by the end of the day we were all ill and LaRue wound up being the bad guy (gal). That was Wednesday. Have you noticed that when the ba*etric pressure starts dropping, all of us get a little anxious? When it actually starts to rain things get a little calmer, but by then some irreparable damage can be done with words that hurt. But what happened Friday morning made me realize that all the events leading up to Friday were absolutely nothing in the -grand scheme of things. Tony died Friday; he was 46 years old. It's hard to type in past tense when describing Tony, so I may slip up. Tony, Sandi & their two boys lived by Katey & Andy on Marquette and they quickly became a part of our family. When we had get-togethers, they were there. Sandi & Katey share a birthday so there were great parties. Tony razzed me unmercifully because I was a Rusty Wallace fan (NASCAR). I gave him grief because he was a Dale Earnhart fan. But we laughed and grinned all the while. When Katey & Andy moved, we didn't see them as much, but there is still a connection that bonds people for life that time, distance and absence can't break. So my heart hurts. It hurst for the 2 teenaged boys, other of Tony's family members, his friends and church family, Andy, Katey & others who loved him like a brother, and for myself who thought of him as another adopted son. Tony, I'll miss you, but I know you're keeping everyone laughing in heaven. Have you seen Earnhart yet? Y'all will have a ringside seat for Talladega, so enjoy the race and we'll see you someday! Love you, son!

Our Molly

2011-04-09T04:53:00.003-06:00

Easter Sunday, April 11, 1977, was High Attendance Day at our church. Druther David told me that being due to deliver a baby at any moment was no excuse for missing church; he'd have an ambulance waiting outside at noon on Sunday just in case I went into labor. The best laid plans... Molly had other plans and those included being born on Good Friday! Wanda, Druther David's wife, came to visit while I was in labor. I don't remember this, but she told me later that I looked at her with tears in my eyes and said, "I'm going to miss High Attendance Day." Dr. Bourland was there at the beginning, but he went off duty and when Dr. Sanders came on my mama said, "Surely that young boy isn't going to deliver my grandbaby!" Dr. John asked Dr. Brouland if he should give me an epidural (sp?) and Dr. Bourland said, "Son, you won't have time; you'd better get in there right now." (I'm one of those blessed women for whom 4 hours of labor was a long time.) I don't remember much else except that I was in a semi-private room with a woman who smoked. (Shouldn't they have already known that smoking is bad for everyone, especially newborns.) Maybe this is the reason Molly was plagued by allergies the first 3 years of her life. The allergies were bad enough that Dr. Hilbun sent us to LeBonheur for allergy tests and Molly had shots for several times a week for a few years. It always surprised Nurse Delores that an 18 month old toddler would want to give her hugs and kisses right after she had given that same toddler an allergy shot. All grown up now, Molly teaches 6th grade math and scored 5th out of 54 sixth grade teachers in her county in a composit teachers' evaluation in her county. She would tell you that she doesn't know if she has any impact on her students. (6th graders = raging hormones) But her 6th grade principal and her Middle School principal would tell you differently. The kids learn more than math from her and all those other values stick, too. She'll be here in a little while and we'll go to breakfast and spend a little time together on this, her 34th birthday. Happy Birthday, Molly! Blessings all day long!!

They'll Always Be Your Babies

2011-04-02T12:11:00.006-06:00

Are you a young mother? Were you ever a young mother? Then you know that feeling of wishing you were sick yourself if it meant your child could be well. You know that feeling of wanting to take the shot or the finger-stick or the bllod-drawing yourself rather than have your baby go through that. Let me tell you - they're always your baby. It doesn't matter if they're 3 or 33, you'll always feel that way. Molly (she'll be 34 in a week) had a medical crisis yesterday. Kevin said when Molly got up yesterday, he heard a muffled scream then a crash. He found her on the floor of the toilet room in the middle of a grand mal seizure. He body was in rigor, eyes fixed, small tremors and drooling. He moved her to the middle of the bathroom, arranged towels around her head, made sure she was breathing and grabbed his phone to call 911. She was unresponsive until the EMTs started moving her to the ambulance. I learned many of the details later, but this is not something a mom wants to hear. After many phone calls Laurie & I were going to the hospital. Katey was going to take me to meet Laurie, but decided she would go, too. I called Mama & she wanted to go, also. Meanwhile, Kevin called back and said the ER doctor had gotten to her quickly and into a CT scan. As soon as they finished the CT, she had another seizure. Having refused anti-seizure meds initially, Kevin gave permission for them to administer by IV. (He had refused until Molly saw a neurologist b/c he didn't want them treating what they didn't know.) But he knew after the 2nd one that they needed to prevent it happening again in such short order. Yesterday they did the CT scan, EEG & MRI and she saw the hospitalist. I was very impressed with her - a no-nonsense doctor who said emphatically, "We want to find out what happened to you and why it happened." She came back in today and is ordering physical therapy for the soreness in Molly's neck, shoulders, back and legs. This is probably due to the fall and being in rigor for about 10 minutes 2 separate times. The neuro- nurse came in and asked a lot of questions and said the neurologist would be there in a few hours. Both the doctor & nurse implied she would be in hospital again tonight for observation. Oh, I forgot to mention her heart rate went to 180 for several minutes, so she's on a heart monitor. We are so grateful for prayer warrior friends, prayer warrior church staffs (Southwoods, Belden, Parkway & others) and prayer warrior family members. What a blessing to know Molly's name was so constantly going up to the Great Physician!! We are also grateful for compassionate, skilled medical professionals who continue to take care of her. I'm grateful for a dear friend who lives in Molly's area and has made herself available to help in any way they need. Is it not an amazing thing to see, hear and feel God's people being God's people in times of need !! So as I said, this is scary stuff for a mom whose baby isn't feeling well. It doesn't matter that she's almost 34 years old. She'll always be my baby, as will her 38yo sister and her 36yo sister.

Laurie Lee

2011-03-11T17:19:00.002-06:00

Today is my Laurie's 36th birthday. Wow! Where did the years go? Our big girl, she weighed 9lb/12oz (the exact same weight as both me and my brother). And as red as her hair is, we didn't know it was red until we got her out in the sunlight that beautiful day when we took her home. When she started talking, Katey had to translate for the first 3 years. And since then I've noticed that's not unusual with first-born & next-born. As she grew, the hair got redder - not strawberry blonde or auburn, but every single shade of red all mixed together.

Those of you who know her now will be surprised to know that when she was little, she would hardly talk to anyone besides Katey, Terry & me. Even people we saw frequently caused her to scamper behind me with an occasional peek around to see if they were still there. Yes, you read that right. Do you know Laurie now? She never meets a stranger. The first time she meets you, within 15 minutes she will have found an acquaintance, friend or family member that you have in common. And she will remember you forever. No longer that shy little girl who hid from everyone!!

I've been thinking about her all day. (And you wonder why I'm tired?!) The mother of 6 children ages 9, 7, 5, 4, 3, and 1 she still finds to cook amazingly delicious meals, make craft-y things out of sheet metal, sell Taste of Gourmet food mixes through networking and work/serve in her church. (Are you tired yet?) Oh, and she homeschools her children!!

Smart, beautiful and very artistic, she walks her own path. It's not always easy, but I do so admire her for being more concerned with what God wants her to do than with what others think of her. She and husband Dewayne trust the Lord and follow Him.

My Laurie. She'll be here soon and we'll eat spinach/artichoke dip from Old Venice. We'll talk and laugh and she'll be on her way. (Tonight she's helping Katey with Kids' Disciple Now - the craft part.) And I'll be tired when she leaves. I do love that girl. Happy Birthday, Laurie.

Happy Birthday, Katey!!

2011-01-20T06:35:00.002-06:00

There was an ice storm in January 1973. I remember this because Dr. Walter Bourland called me and told me not to step foot outside my door. Good advice considering I was 9 months pregnant. The storm came and went, but still no baby. I use the generic term "baby" becuase in those days doctor's didn't order sonograms to determine the sex of the child. (Gee, Katey, that makes you sound old!) I also remember - and this is rich if you know anything about Katey's life today - that on January 11th (my due date) I went to an evening women's event at Parkway Baptist Church. (Katey has been going to Parkway for 16 years and is Children/Education Minister.) Someone at the event asked me when I was due and when I said, "Today!" they wanted to know why I wasn't parked at the hospital.

But it would be another 8 days before Terry & I made that trek and 9 before she would be born. On January 19th at my regular doctor visit Dr. Bourland said as I walked out the door, "I'll see you tonight." Too naive to panic, I went home, washed my hair, took a bath and waited...and waited...and waited. Terry came home from work and we went about our normal routine. Of course, by this time I was having contractions, but it didn't seem so bad; and besides, Terry wanted to watch Johnny Carson. As The Tonight Show was going off we were headed to the car because these mild sensations were a lot closer together.

Let me apologize publicly to that nurse - the one that I back-handed when she tried to put a needle in me. Too bad she was between the bed and the wall because that made her a fairly easy target. Yes, she got her revenge; the needle went in. And I was out like a light and remember nothing about the birth of our first daughter at 4:16am on January 20, 1973.

But I remember a lot that's happened since. She's a grown woman now with children of her own. What a joy and a blessing she has been and is. I love you, Kitty-Kat.

Friends & Memories

2011-01-16T15:47:00.007-06:00

The Backstory...

In early 2009 God put an old friend on my mind; someone I hadn't seen or talked to in years. The throughts were so strong that I called Debbie (Rankin) Herring and asked if she had heard from Bethellen (Lowe). A few weeks later Debbie called me and said that out of the blue she had heard from Bethellen. We connected on Facebook and it was great. In September that same year another school friend's mom died. Several of us talked and made plans to go to the funeral. We went to the funeral and a reunion broke out. Judy (Dye) Harrison's mom, who had died, would have loved it!!

There were six of us who ran around together all through school and I wanted us to get together. We made plans for Oct 17th and along with those already mentioned Susan (Shumpert) Schlicht and Sharyn (Johnston) Knight all came to my house to spend most of the day. We stayed in touch, some of us more than others, by email and facebook and the occasional phone call but we didn't get together again until October 2010.

In 2010 we met at Riley's in Nettleton for lunch and several hours of visiting. Judy Harrison didn't get to come, but Peggy (Weeks) Burnside did. We decided then to meet again in January 2011.

Happening Now...

Through email, facebook and phone calls, we let others know we were gathering at Riley's again on January 15th. We weren't sure who would show up and I was pleasantly surprised at the number of folks who came. Thirteen of us gathered and shared some great memories and a lot of laughter. We realized that several of our friends have passed away; we would miss them. And we decided that it was important enough that we needed to gather again. Maybe in April there will be even more people there, adding to the shared memories of wonderful years of growing up in a small town.

To me, personally, it has been a true blessing from God to reconnect with Bethellen. For one thing, she has been gracious in picking me up for all these events. But more, it is such a joy to see who she has become in the LORD. There was a definite purpose that God put her on my heart in early 2009. We may not know the full reason until we step into glory, but for now her friendship has added tremendously to my life.

Our class will turn 60 this year. I'm sure that all of us begin to deal with this season of our lives, we will need each other from time to time. Reconnecting through regular meetings will strengthen bonds; we'll be more aware of needs in others' lives. It's hard to put into words how much I love these folks - the ones I know well and the ones I don't know so well. What a blessing this has been in my life. God is good all the time!!

Present: Buddy Coggin, Mem Riley, Jimmy Bryan, Bill Farrar, Shelia Morgan Sudduth & husband, Peggy Weeks Burnside, Sherry Hipps Ashley, Debbie Rankin Herring & grandson, Sharyn Johnston Knight, Susan Shumpert Schlicht, Bethellen Lowe Nicholson and LaRue Gregory Peters

Call Me Weird

2011-01-11T09:33:00.004-06:00

There's a huge snow out there and it's beautiful. I'm off work for two days because of the weather, which I have no control over. So why am I miserable? Lots of people would be jumping for joy if they didn't have to go to work. Yet I'm anxious. Yesterday wasn't too bad. I studied my Sunday school lesson and caught up on some computer work that I had put off. We had pinto beans, mashed potatoes and cornbread for lunch and that was good. And I watched too much TV.

Maybe that's the problem. The non-stop coverage of the tragedy in Arizona can wear on the spirit. It's not that I don't feel for all concerned; it's just that a surfeit of bad news isn't a good antidote for cabin fever.

And I blame my parents for my heightened sense of guilt when I don't go to work...even if I can't go to work. Don't get me wrong - my parents are/were great. (Daddy G has gone home, but Mama G is still around to make sure I do what's right.) But surely they didn't have to instill such a sense of responsibility. Yeah, I guess they did, and it stands me in good stead most of the time. I'm just feeling.......miserable.

Are you tired of my whining? I am. So, I'm going to put the clothes in the dryer, fix some lunch, turn off the TV and go vote (later). Sounds good to me.

It's A Wonderful Life

2010-12-28T08:10:00.009-06:00

Am I the only person i the world who has never seen the movie, It's A Wonderful Life? It seems to be everyone's favorite Christmas movie, but my attention span doesn't usually allow for movies. But I'm living a wonderful ife so maybe that's why I have no desire to see the movie.

It's the time of year for reflection and evaluation so here's a look back in no particular order of priority...

The holiday season last year was very different at work. We had some very large orders in one department from November - February so we only got the usual paid holidays and not a full week like we're getting this year. Some were a tad disgruntled at not having time off but we all kept reminding ourselves of how fortunate we are to have a job. We got a breather after the facial tissue orders, but in May we started seeing large orders in plastic flatware. Overtime, again. And this time it lasted all summer. Do you have any idea how complicated it is to schedule production when 90% of your employee group has a cap on how much they can make in a month. Talk about disincentives to work! But we have jobs!!

In our family we were anticipating the birth of the 8th grandchild. At one point he was breech, but we prayed & prayed and then he wasn't breech!! Easter morning I talked to Laurie & she was getting her 5 children ready to go to church before she went to the hospital to have Harris. After five uneventful, fast birthings, we weren't anticipating any problems. HA! Harris wouldn't drop into the birth canal & contractions were squeezing him to death. A "splash&grab" C-section (less than 30 seconds start-to-finish) relieved his distress and he was fine immediately. Then Laurie lost 2/3 of her blood volume on the operating table but Dr. Crecelius is a great doctor and Jesus is THE Great Physician. Today both Harris & Laurie are doing great.

Katelee surprised us all by going out for cross-country running and doing well. (I think she takes her athletic abilities from me.) Tucker plays baseball and basketball and loves them both. Who knows which he'll gravitate toward! The Witt family went on a cruise in the spring and then on a familymission trip with 8 Days of Hope in November.

Carter was saved in July at Kids' Camp. His dad, Dewayne (an ordained deacon) had the privilege of baptizing him with many family/friends in attendance.

We were blessed to get together with extended family several times through the year to celebrate birthdays, holidays and other special events. When I say "extended" family, I mean all our girls' in-laws. Our joys and our challenges are shared by one and all. What a tremedous gift God has given us in the Witts, the Phillipses and the Tates.

This year has seen some "old" friendships reforged. I keep using the word blessing, but I just don't know how else to describe all these events. It has been a delight to get to know the grown-up versions of childhood friends.

There have been so many other blessings this year that I can't count them all. My Heavenly Father has blessed me beyond measure and far beyond what I deserve.

Middle of the Day Thoughts

2010-12-12T13:28:00.007-06:00

Yesterday was a wonderful day. Bethellen came down from Horn Lake to get me and we went on to Nettleton to attend the celebration of Mr. Lester & Mrs. Gracie Weeks' 65th wedding anniversary. WOW!! Sixty-five years together! He's 89 and she's 87; they married when they were 24 and 22 respectively. As Peggy, their youngest daughter, said, "In those days Mama was an old maid." Well, she didn't stay an old maid and here they are 65 years later. Their 3 daughters did a wonderful job on the reception - decorations and food. And amazingly, they cooked lunch for an indeterminate number of people. There was fried chicken, bar-b-q chicken, meatballs, roast beef, all kinds of vegetables and all kinds of salads and desserts. While the food was very good, the fellowship was even better. I got to talk to many people that I haven't seen in years - people I went to church with, former teachers, friends of my mom & dad and so many more.

And I really enjoyed spending time with Bethellen. She's one of the friends I went all the way through school with, got in trouble with, laughed with, cried with and then separated from. Funny. We tell ourselves we'll be friends forever, then life happens and we move on. The blessing is that some of us have gotten together through Facebook, email and {gas} telephone. Oh, what fun!!

This morning we woke to light snow flurries and they have continued throughout the day. Did I mention that it's extremely cold and the Weather Channel alert for tomorrow predicts a wind chill of 3*. Can you say B-R-R-R-R? It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas.

I have the absolute best Sunday school class of older ladies. Last Saturday we had our Christmas party at Old West. You'll never meet a group that enjoys life more. There's always plenty of love and laughter and some pretty sneaky tricks. For one thing, how did everyone get such nice Dirty Santa gifts for just $5? Methinks someone spent more!

Our Christmas lunch at work will be Tuesday. Everyone always gets a nice gift and a nice gift card to Wal*Mart. We're hoping the nicest gift will be the decision to close the plant the week between Christmas and New Year's. It's been quite a few years since we've had a full week off and we'd all love that Christmas gift!! Our orders have slowed and we have some good stock, so as one of my employees said, "I'm just having a lot of faith this will happen."

Don't you think it's about time for a cup of hot chocolate?

By definition...

2010-11-13T08:03:00.003-06:00

Accident: An unexpected and undesirable event, especially one that results in damage or harm; an unforeseen incident.

Yesterday business unit managers were "invited" to a big pow-wow (conference call) to discuss the increasing number of accidents at work. Believe you me, I don't want anyone getting hurt at work, or anywhere else for that matter. That's the very first consideration. But I especially don't like it when employees get hurt on my watch. But there seems to be some unreasonable expectations - we're supposed to foresee and correct any potential for an accident. If I were omniscient I can guarantee I wouldn't be working for a living. How am I supposed to perform this superhuman feat?

The last three incidents at work have been in the category of Slip/Trip/Fall. Two employees tripped over each other while rushing to the time clock. An employee was trying to unstop a toilet and slipped on a wet floor. Two employees were going to their work stations and one tripped over the other employee's cane. In all three cases, the potential was there for an accident, but how do you stop these accidents before they happen?

By definition, an accident is unexpected, undesireable, or unforeseen. If you asked the people involved in the incidents described above, all of them would tell you they did not plan the accident; nor did they want it to happen. So how do we eliminate accidents? Because, yes, as the responsible person at our facility I'm being held accountable and responsible. It's a huge stressor and burden.

So when I go back to work Monday staff will do a walk-through and try with all our human might to see the potentials for accidents. But if we correct every single possibility for an accident, we might as well close the doors and go home. What to do? What to do?

2010-10-30T10:15:00.002-06:00

Can you hear the laughing and fussing and encouraging? And can you see me smiling? My 3 girls and oldest granddaughter and oldest grandson are having a craft-y morning here at our house. They saw some "picture frames" at the Mistletoe Merchant Event in Memphis earalier this month and decided they could do that very thing for very little money.

And now Laurie is making a white chicken pizza for lunch, along w/ some sort of chocolate/peanut butter concoction that's already making my mouth water. I hear Katelee outside hammering on sheetmetal and they're still discussing the pros and cons of certain colors and decorations for the frames.

We all spent a few minutes congratulating Molly on a job well-done. Scores are in for teachers in the Desoto County school system and Southaven Middle School 6th graders scored very high marks. Out of 54 6th grade teachers county-wide, all six of the 6th grade teachers from last year scored in the top ten. And Molly is #5 overall. Yea! Molly! See..what you do matters for a lifetime.

We'll eat lunch and all go our separate ways - Katey to a State game, Laurie to Ole Miss, Molly to her in-laws, Katelee & Tucker to a fall party and me to the BBC Fall Festival - but it's been a wonderful morning. It's been a blessing to have all my girls here.

2010-10-27T13:07:00.002-06:00

It's usually a riot at the Phillips Phamility abode. When you have six children and you homeschool, they're always there to provide entertainment. Laurie posted this on fb today:

My 3yo daughter asked my 4yo son, "Marcus, you think I pretty?" My son replies,"I guess so." My daughter tilts her head a little, smiles, and begins to bat her eyelashes. "Ok, Marcus...NOW you think I pretty?" He says, "Yeah Marlee...you're real pretty!" (He was sincere!). When I find out who taught this little "move"... to my daughter, I'm going to hurt you. Then lock her in her room until she's 30.

Reminds me of the saying... She's payin' for her raisin'.

Yesterday was Katelee's 12th birthday. Gracious! We went over last night for a pizza/cake/ice cream supper for friends and family. She's growing up fast, as are all our kidlesttes. Before you know it, Harris (almost 7 months old) will be crawling, then walking; and I won't have a lap baby anymore. Hey, MOLLY!!!

2010-10-25T13:57:00.003-06:00

All the negative things I anticipated happening today didn't. I told Terry this morning that he was being mean to make me go to work, but it didn't sway him. He brought me right on up to the end of the sidewalk and told me to get out. Well, actually he said, "OK, I love you; bye-bye; have a good day," all in one breath. It's not that I don't like to work; I do. But I've been coming to the same place for 29 years next Tuesday and a body gets tired of the sameness. Or maybe I'm just tired of dealing with folks who don't appear to be grateful for a job in this stinking economy. And besides, what would I do at home by myself all day, every day? I'd last 2 weeks, max!

On a brighter note, we had a wonderful, unusual, beautifuly worship experience yesterday at Belden. One of our members is from Central America and some of her family, not conversant in English, has been visiting Belden. Yesterday when Bro. Jim got up to preach, Margie went to the pulpit with him. Hmmmm..what's going on? She stood right up there with a microphone and translated the entire sermon. You could tell it was an effort for both of them, but it was beautiful and not distracting at all. One of the men told the congregation, through Margie, that he could really feel the presence of God in that place. He was very appreciative of the love and acceptance he felt from our congregation. Looks like we have a mission field closer than we knew as our area has a large population of Hispanics and Latin Americans.

It's hard to believe, but Katelee will be 12 years old tomorrow. Seems like only yesterday we were welcoming a tiny 3lb/12oz girl into our lives. Now she sings at church and school and has started running cross-country. I wonder if Katey feels any older?

2010-10-24T17:19:00.004-06:00

It's been a while - about 2 years - since I've posted here. First was the move to xanga; then the move to Facebook. fb is the fast-food of networking, but I've felt the need lately to write in more detail about my daily life. A few friends and family might be interested enough to read occasionally, but that's okay.

A lot has happened in 2 years. Terry & I have another grandson - Harris. He's our miracle baby and his mommy is a walking miracle, too, after a harrowing Easter Sunday afternoon birth. We're thankful every day to have both of them with us. Another momentous event (2 of them, actually) is reconnecting with dear friends from high school. We got together in October '09 and again in October this year. We're going to make it a more regular meeting and try to include some others.

One more thing that has happened, and probably the reason I feel the need to post here, is the rapid decrease in my visual acuity. Over the last 2 years I've lost more peripheral and central vision. And recently there have been several times when everything has gone very dim. It won't surprise you if I say this is scary. A friend asked me recently how I kept from getting mad about going blind. As I told her, I got over mad a long time ago; I can still throw a fairly dismal pity party from time to time, but I'm not mad. I believe God is sovereign, working in all events through His directive will or His permissive will. Blindness didn't happen to me without His permission so I have to believe He has lessons for me to learn through this. No, it's not a pleasant process, and I pray I'll continue to learn the lessons God has for me. And I'll continue to post here occasionally to vent, to praise God and to record what I'm going through.

Truth is, God has graced me with so many wonderful blessings, that it's hard to be mad about one little inconvenience.

2008-09-24T10:15:00.002-06:00

A few weeks ago in SS we were discussing the difference between joy and happiness. It seems Christians have a different perspective on these two emotions. We decided that happiness is dependent on happenings. If I lose two pounds I’m happy; if I gain one pound I’m not. This produces a rollercoaster effect on our emotions. Other people can make us happy or unhappy, leaving us with little control of our feelings.

Joy, on the other hand, is something very different. While Webster’s gives similar definitions for joy and happiness, using them almost interchangeably, to a Christian, there’s a huge difference. Joy is something God gives us. It isn’t dependent on people or happenings; it’s dependent on our dependence on God.

Try to explain joy to someone; it’s an almost indescribable peacefulness deep inside. True joy from God is not an up-and-down feeling. Even when I’m not on top of the world, even when I’m struggling with challenges that seem to overwhelm, even when my heart is heavy, I can feel joy. It’s not worldly giddiness; it’s peace in the midst of the storm.

Joy is knowing that our Heavenly Father is in control and that Jesus is seated at His right hand to intercede for us. Joy is waiting for the Father to heal the hurt and knowing that He will. Joy is deep inside where others can’t see, but it produces outward calmness, wisdom and peace. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit and comes directly from having a relationship with God. As Peter the Apostle says in 1 Peter 1:6–9,

In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.

2008-09-05T09:16:00.002-06:00

It’s time to start a new church year. Our class has just wrapped up a study of The Acts of the Apostles. It’s my favorite book in the Bible! (Inside joke: Every time we start studying a new book I say it’s my favorite.)

The study of Acts has given me a renewed awe regarding the power of the Holy Spirit to impact our world. The writers of our SS literature do a very good job of putting together lessons that build on each other each week. From Acts we learned that there are some things that only God can do through His power. But we also saw Him at work in individuals – Paul, Peter, Stephen, Philip – using their unique personalities in the work of Kingdom growth. We also studied different cities/towns where churches were planted and we saw that many of the challenges we face today are the same as they faced in the first century.

As I read through the first chapter of Acts last week (one more time before we closed out the study), I could just see the apostles and other Christ-followers trudging up the stairs to the place where they had been staying. After Jesus’ ascension, don’t you know they were confused, frustrated, concerned, downcast? As they sat in that upper room I can imagine that Bartholomew was asking himself, “Why did I run away that night in the garden? What’s going to happen to me now? What did He mean, ‘…the gift the Father promised?’” And wouldn’t Peter have been beating himself up over the fact that he had verbally, and very publicly, denied even knowing Jesus? Not once, but three times? The silence in that room must have been deafening.

But then, maybe in a back corner, Matthew stood up and started praying. He sat down and after a time, Philip stood up to pray. Slowly their moods began to lighten as they turned their focus to the Father and stopped thinking about their shortcomings. Maybe in painful honesty Peter admitted his sin and others began to do the same. And then there was more of peace than of a pall.

And then they heard it…the sound as of a mighty rushing wind. And it was inside, not outside; but nothing stirred. As they held their collective breaths the appearance of the fire flaming over each of them is a sight I hope to see on God’s heavenly TiVo some day.

These same people who trudged up those stairs in despondency would now trek down those same stairs in determination. The change was not of their making; it could only have been the power of the Spirit. And that power would change the world. Today I can give thanks that those 120 men and women waited in obedience for God to indwell them, then moved in obedience to the Spirit’s leading. The church was born that day and nothing can ever destroy it. How fortunate we are that they obeyed. It’s time for us to do the same. My prayer is for a fresh indwelling and working of the Spirit in my life. And may I be faithful in obedience to His leading.

2008-08-26T16:55:00.003-06:00

Mama told me there would be days like this...

First, I didn't sleep well, possibly anticipating the harrowing day to come. When I got up about 4am there was a visitor - pleurisy. Not an horrific case, but aggravating, nonetheless. (Why do I use that word when I write, but seldom use it in conversation?) Anyway, pleurisy, sniffles and a sinus headache were my morning companions.

Right after morning break my favorite tattler came to tell me about some other employees' work habits. I told her to go back to work. I should have known it wouldn't be that simple. Another employee came to tattle on her and we went downhill from there. I've never had a problem with tattlers until this particular person came to work a little over a year ago. Makes me want to pull my hair out. None of the usual tricks stopped her. Oh, was she ever gonna get her comeuppance today, and all by her own hand.

Not one to take anything with a grain of salt, my problem child burst into my office as I was investigating a charge of harassment, demanding to know what was going on. I told her I was busy and would talk to her later. Well, who am I to put her off? She demanded more loudly to know "what you're going to do to me" and again I told her I would talk to her later. I instructed her to go back to her workstation. "I have a right to know what you're going to do to me right now," she shouted at me. I firmly told her to go back to her workstation. Out she flounced, slamming the door and screaming, "I'm going home." Oh, yeah, please don't anyone stop her. It's called job abandonment and is considered self-termination. She screamed and hollered her way right out the door and I finally breathed a sigh of relief.

I won't even stress over going on vacation in October now that the troublemaker is gone. In my own defense, I went several extra miles to try to save her job; she has some deep-seated issues that I'm not equipped to deal with. Maybe there's someone out there who can help her because I certainly don't wish her ill. I just wish her on someone else. Sorry, potential employer, but she's all yours.

And so it goes in the life of a working girl...

2008-08-25T14:49:00.002-06:00

We had a Women’s Ministry brunch at church Saturday. What a wonderful time we all had. After all the games, food & general hilarity, Dr. Leanna Hollis spoke about different women of differing gifts and talents carrying on the work of ministry. It was a very inspiring talk. There were over 60 ladies of all ages bonded together by a love for the Lord and His church and by a love for each other.

As an Icebreaker we all had cards with a question. We were to talk to as many people as possible, write down their names and their answers. Mind you, all of us had different questions. One lady approached me (who was that woman?!?) and asked, “What’s your favorite book of the Bible?” I almost fell out of my chair laughing and my Sunday school members around me thought it was too funny. You see, each quarter we start studying a different book of the Bible, and for as long as I’ve been teaching the class – 7 years – I start each quarter by telling them, “This is my very favorite book in the Bible.” Yes, I have lots of favorites; 66, as a matter of fact.

It rained off and on all weekend and we’ve been thankful for every drop. In this part of the state rain has been scarce this summer. But the rain didn’t stop us. Even when the umbrella turned wrong-side-out we just laughed and trekked on. All of us were sporting that wind-blown look.

And it’s been a calm day at work, strangely enough. I have several projects going on so I only get out of the cubbyhole a few times a day. Never have understood how I’m supposed to “supervise” when I’m tied to a computer. Oh, well. I’m glad to have a job and benefits. I’ll leave the “understanding” to my bosses.

2008-08-23T07:19:00.002-06:00

As they gathered 'round to sing Happy Birthday, the young waitress asked, "Are you 29 again this year?" "No," I replied, "I'm 57 and proud of it." They sang anyway. I'm not sure why people are ashamed? embarrassed? to tell their age. And it's not just women; men don't like to tell, either. Of course, the older we are, the closer we are to the grave, but why not be thankful for life and all the years God has graced us with?

I've been celebrating all week. My Sunday school class went to Olive Garden Monday night - our monthly get-together. Thursday night Katey, Andy, Katelee & Tucker took me to Outback. And today I'm going to a brunch at the church. All of these were not birthday celebrations, but I'm enjoying them all nonetheless. I'll see Laurie & Molly today, so you can see that it's been a good week.

Last week I went for my yearly physical. Pami was impressed with my weight loss (at least 39 pounds since last year) and my cholesterol & triglyceride counts. (Except for this week) I'm eating a lot healthier and staying with the treadmill & cardio workouts. My tendency to start well, then backslide is something I battle all the time, but feeling better and the prospect of longer quality of life keeps me grounded.

2008-07-04T04:30:00.003-06:00

I've always envied people who can "sleep in". It's a holiday and I didn't have to get up early, but guess who was awake at 4:30? Yep, yours truly. Part of it is my normal routine. I'm usually up by 4:15am so I can be at work by 6:15am. Being a morning person, my brain works better that time of day; it's the best time for me to have my devotions. Since Brad put the NASB on my iPod, I can listen to about 7 chapters and then spend time in prayer. As you might have surmised, getting up this early leads to going to bed really early, too. I used to think my parents were just weird for going to bed at 8pm. Company would have heard my daddy say, "Well, Sue, I think we'd better go to bed so these folks can go home." If the phone rang after 8pm, daddy answered with, "WHAT?" Now I understand why they retired early. And my family completely understands.

It will be a quiet day for me: Terry will be at work and the kids will be at in-laws' homes. It will be a good day to finish Part 2 of Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan. I hadn't realized until a few weeks ago that there is a Part 2. Christian's pilgrimage makes up Part 1 and so far as I can tell from the Prologue, Part 2 is the pilgrimage of Christiana, his wife, and their four children. I read this classic when I was a teen so was surprised at how much I remembered. But I didn't know about Part 2 and I'm excited about starting it today.

I'll have to be very careful about downloading to the iPod. Pilgrim's Progress was a free download, but let me tell you, other books are not cheap. You'd think that since publishers don't have to pay for ink, paper, shipping, etc., these downloads would be less expensive. Not necessarily so. I'm trying to find some trustworthy sites with less expensive products. Cathy, if you see any downloads by some of the Christian authors you know I like - Lucado, Swindoll, Tozer, Blackaby - please let me know.

Have a happy and safe 4th.

2008-06-26T11:56:00.000-06:00

Don’t you just love nice surprises? Monday afternoon I was working hard…smile…at my computer when I heard the front door open. I looked up (with my computer glasses on, which prevented my seeing anything except a blur) and saw a wild woman standing at the counter waving big-time. Quick! Change glasses. Oh my stars, it’s Cathy. How great is that?! She had spent a couple of days w/ her grands and was on her way back home. We only got a short visit in, but Friend Cathy, it was wonderful to see you.

This past weekend was a sweet one for our family. Katelee was baptized Sunday morning with lots of family there to share the experience. It turned into a really busy day. Some of us went to lunch after church; then L & I went to a bridal shower. At the house K & kidlettes came by twice and M dropped in for a while. WOW! How often do I get to see all my girls in one day? Not nearly often enough.

I finished my work projects that were stressing me out so much. Of course, there will probably be things to correct but it will come in smaller, more manageable increments.

I fell off the wagon last night. Yesterday was our 37th anniversary so Terry & I went out to supper. Do you know how hard it is to manage portions when you go to a place that is strictly buffet? Oh well, let’s just say it was a reward for making a drastic lifestyle change. I’m back on the healthy eating wagon again today so maybe there wasn’t too much harm. On Monday afternoon I added a cardio workout to my routine. I can tell you, about 10 minutes into the program I could feel every single one of my 57 years. Can you say “the oldies were sweating”? Oh…but I feel so much better.

2008-06-21T05:57:00.002-06:00

It’s been an emotional week. I’ve had two large projects with a 6/20 deadline that threatened my sanity. Not one to procrastinate, the tendency on these two projects caught me completely off guard. Mine wasn’t a “drop-dead” timeline, but I was strongly encouraged to get it done. I’ll be sending off a large package Monday & finishing the rest this coming week. In my own defense, the procrastination stemmed from lack of resources – people, information, direction. Oh well, it’s almost over and I’ll find out soon enough what “they” think of my work.

An employee has been very sick – in hospital last week & then again this week. He finally got a diagnosis Wednesday and had surgery Thursday. Ramon is a lovable teddy-bear of a man and we’ve been very worried about him.

Carter & Laurie were going w/ the church group to the Creation Museum in Kentucky and to the Cincinnati Zoo Thu – Sat. Those plans changed slightly when Marlee Kupcake got very sick. She went to the doctor Tue morning and when she wasn’t doing better Wed morning (in fact, worse) doc told Mommy to bring her in and be prepared to go directly to the hospital. Yep, she was admitted. At first it was precautionary, but then tests revealed salmonella and a severe UTI in a 16-mo old. She didn’t like the IV and hated the blood pressure cuff they put on her ankle. The IV was taken out yesterday morning and she was home before lunch. She’s doing much better but still recovering.

Because of her hospital stay, we weren’t sure about Carter going on the trip, but several parents said they would be glad to take care of him as their own. He spent the night w/ us and we got him to the church early Thu morning. Laurie’s talked to him and some of the adults. He’s having a great time and will be home this afternoon.

In the middle of this I took a vacation day on Tuesday. (use it or loose it) MomaG and I went shopping. TA-DA…I’m down another clothing size. The weight is coming off 2-3 pounds per week and I feel so much better. My yearly physical in August will reveal significant weight loss and I’m hoping better cholesterol and triglyceride numbers. Never one to take vitamins, it’s a necessary part of my routine now, along with a fish oil pill.

Since I don’t usually read the Comcast Cable emails I hadn’t realized until last night that onDemand has finally plugged in Exercise TV. Now I can vary my treadmill time w/ some great cardio workouts. I’m excited. Measurable results when I step on the scale serve to keep me on the straight-and-narrow. Salads, fresh fruits and vegetables, Weight Control oatmeal (which I now swear by) and lots of water have this reformed eater living a much healthier lifestyle.

2008-06-16T04:01:00.000-06:00

5 THINGS YOU NEVER KNEW YOUR CELL PHONE COULD DO
(Print and put in yourcar glove box)

There are a few things that can be done in times of grave emergencies. Your mobile phone can actually be a life saver or an emergency tool for survival. Check out the things that you can do with it:

FIRST: Emergency
The Emergency Number worldwide for Mobile is 112. If you find yourself out of the coverage area of your mobile network and there is an emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search any existing network to establish the emergency number for you, and interestingly this number 112 can be dialed even if the keypad is locked. Try it out.

SECOND: Have you locked your keys in the car?
Does your car have remote keyless entry? This may come in handy someday. Good reason to own a cell phone: If you lock your keys in the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their cell phone from your cell phone. Hold your cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock. Saves someone from having to drive your keys to you. Distance is no object. You could be hundreds of miles away, and if you can reach someone who has the other 'remote' for your car, you can unlock the doors (or the trunk).
Editor's Note: It works fine! We tried it out and it unlocked our car over a cell phone!'

THIRD: Hidden Battery Power
Imagine your cell battery is very low. To activate, press the keys *3370# Your cell will restart with this reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery. This reserve will get charged when you charge your cell next time.

FOURTH: How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?
To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following digits on your phone: * # 0 6 #. A 15 digit code will appear on the screen. This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe. When your phone gets stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use/sell it either. If everybody does this, there would be no point in people
stealing mobile phones.

FIFTH: Free Directory Service for Cells
Cell phone companies are charging us $1.00 to $1.75 or more for 411 information calls when they don't have to. Most of us do not carry a telephone directory in our vehicle, which makes this situation even more of a problem. When you need to use the 411 information option, simply dial (800) FREE 411, or (800) 373-3411 without incurring any charge at all. Program this into your cell phone now.

2008-06-12T10:37:00.005-06:00

The world of work is changing all the time; and with changes come longer hours with more work crammed into each of those hours. Sometimes it feels as if I don’t have a life outside the plant. Let me think….9 more years to retirement. (Who can retire before they're eligible for Medicare?)

But I do have a life outside work and it’s a good one. Family and friends are happy and well, which is an abundant blessing by itself. K is in N.O. with her youth for a week of ministry and clean-up. L is home w/ her young crew. She & Carter are going w/ the church group to the Creation Museum in Kentucky(?) later this month. Molly is subbing at not one, but two, middle schools this summer. All the guys are working hard and all the kidlettes are fine. Terry is busy even though the economy is in a slump. (Not a recession. By definition a recession is two consecutive quarters of negative GDP, which we haven’t had, at least not yet.)

Healthier eating habits and more consistent treadmill time leads to consistent weight loss. I've reached two goals in the last three weeks. YEA! A friend has put the NASB on my iPod so treadmill time will be time well spent, in more ways than one. Thanks Brad.

Life is on an even keel. Things can change in the blink of an eye, but I'm grateful for the moment. God is good all the time; all the time God is good.

Marlee Kupcake w/ her mom (a Chuck E. Cheese sketch)

2008-05-10T06:09:00.002-06:00

Why would someone who is so obviously imperfect have perfectionist tendencies? I just went back in my previous post and corrected a word I'd misspelled. Now why did I do that since the 4 people who read this blog have probably already read that post, noticed the error, laughed a little and moved on to other more interesting things? Who knows. Friend Cathy, do you want a crack at psycho-analyzing me? Ha! I'll bet you've already tried after all these years.

Not sure why I'm here posting; it's going to be a busy two days. I need to work on the SS lesson for tomorrow and polish up a short talk I'm giving at Parkway's Mother's Day Brotherhood Breakfast in the morning. This afternoon MomaG, my brother Darrell, his wife Kay, Terry & I, all our girls, all their husbands & kids and all their husbands' families are having a cookout at K&A's house. Whoo-Hoo!! It's supposed to be stormy but Katey assures everyone their new house is not a showcase and she doesn't mind sweeping up the dirt later.

Happy Mothers' Day to all who are mothers and to all who have mothers!

2008-05-09T10:27:00.003-06:00

We really appreciate all who called to check on us yesterday. There's a reason they call it Tornado Alley. Laurie's family got the brunt of it last weekend and yesterday was our turn. It's amazing that an F4 tornado can come through & do surprisingly little damage. Of course, the folks that are having siding & roofs repaired don't think it's so "little". But for the size and strength of the four tornadoes, we really dodged a bullet.

In our neighborhood there are lots of uprooted trees, shingles blown off, siding torn off, portable storage buildings gone and some very fortunate, uninjured people. In the hours after the storm Terry said there were two to three hundred people in our subdivion cleaning up. And that didn't count the sightsee-ers getting in the way.

It was a difficult day for me. If you read my other blog you know I have a wounded heel. The antibiotics are causing some emotional ups & downs. (What's up with that?) And I have the responsibility of keeping 40+ people safe at work with no control over what storms do. And yesterday we had corporate company. All-in-all yesterday was a traumatic day. Only our Heavenly Father could have carried me through it all. I know it wasn't my strength.

2008-05-03T07:30:00.009-06:00

Hello, Everyone! I've taken a sabbatacal from blogging. Work? Writer's block? Who knows, but I'm here today and that's all I promise. Later there will be some thoughts about my spiritual journey, but first I'd like to start w/ a few pix. You can find more here and here.

2008-04-04T12:41:00.003-06:00

There is life outside work. I know there is; I just can’t seem to find it. Now that Glenda is back at work maybe those hours will level out and I can actually do a few things when I get home instead of dropping into the recliner for a hour or so, then going to bed with the chickens. Nah….I’ll always go to bed with the chickens.

Glenda is doing great after her surgery. She's lost weight and STOPPED SMOKING!!

Of major import: Tucker will be baptized Sunday. glory!! The entire extended family is going to Parkway for that milestone event, then we’re all going out to eat for Molly’s & Aaron’s April birthdays. There are so many of us now that we have at least one & sometimes two or three special events to celebrate each month. Fun! Fun!

Friend Cathy has insulted me yet again ~smiles~ by generalizing that many Republicans are a dishonest lot, doing the cross-over voting thing to spoil the Dems’ chances. Come on, Sweetie. Surely you’ve said that Reps are not very smart; could we even figure that out? You can’t have it both ways.

Sorry to disappoint, but in the general election they’re going to let me vote for whomever I please. Here you'll find: “A voter who votes in the primary of one party may not "crossover" to vote in the run-off of another party…The general election ballot contains the names of the party nominees, plus any independent or third party candidates who have qualified.”

It’s our differences that I love!!

2008-03-22T12:36:00.003-06:00

It’s been the strangest weekend. It began Thursday night with the arrest of the carpenter. Of course, we’d all heard of him. He’s stirred up some mighty powerful men to an ungodly anger. These Jewish leaders are even breaking their own laws and trying to get people to testify against him. But the witnesses don’t corroborate each other’s testimonies. It’s been a madhouse, and I’ve never seen Pilate so upset. He looks like he’s been pulled in every direction at once. He wanted to placate the Jewish leaders; but he also detests these people and resents having to deal with them. He wanted to set the carpenter free; but he also wanted to use him as a scapegoat. He began the weekend hating Herod; but ended it with a strange friendship.

Finally, Friday morning he handed the carpenter over to us soldiers for a little sport. It’s always been this way with criminals who are about to be executed, but there was something different about this one. He had already been beaten and flogged several times. Why, even his own mother wouldn’t recognize him. But all of us were tense from all the goings-on in Jerusalem this Jewish holiday season and we were ready for a little distraction.

Timnus found a discarded scarlet robe and put it over his shoulders and the others began bowing down to him in mockery of the claims we’d heard about him being the King of the Jews. Someone blindfolded him and started hitting his head, demanding that he tell who it was. Seems such a childish passtime, doesn’t it? He’s been slapped, hit, beaten, flogged and spit on. Mockery is probably the least of his concerns. Usually these guys look either angry and defiant, or they look resigned and defeated. Not the carpenter. I can hardly describe it, but in that swollen, torn and bleeding face his eyes were absolutely blazing with victory. Now why on earth would he look victorious? He was about to die, for heaven’s sake. That look kind of shook me up.

Then it was time to go. You know, we’ve only used crucifixion as a means of execution for a few years. It’s supposed to be more humiliating, and it is. It’s supposed to be more torturous, and it is. Makes you wonder if even the most heinous of criminals deserves this. We were walking up that path to Golgotha and it just amazed me that he had the strength to carry that cross on his back after all he’d already been through. His breathing was labored and he was sweating like a horse. Just to make sure he didn’t die before we got him up on the crossbeam, I grabbed a man out of the crowd to carry his cross for him. The carpenter could hardly walk even without the weight of the timber.

I’ve been involved in these executions from the first, and found out early that if you drive the nail in the wrong place on the wrist, blood just gushes out and the criminal dies in a matter of minutes. That happened the first two times. And I soon learned that you have to drive the nail in right under that strongest bone in the wrist so they’ll stay put. It’s the same with the nail in the foot. The wrong position starts that blood spurting again and it won’t hold.

Anyway, Anthony stepped forward to push him down on top of the crossbeam, but he just laid right down without a word. I can’t count how many times I’ve done this, but this is one I’ll remember forever. I positioned the nail just right and was about to drive it in when I sort of felt him move his head. Now most criminals turn their heads away. I guess they think if they can’t see the source of the pain, it won’t be so bad. But not the carpenter. He turned and looked right at his own outstretched left arm. I always try to drive the nail in exactly right the first time so they won’t have to suffer it again. It’s a small thing and I would never tell my fellow soldiers. So I drew back the hammer and hit the mark dead-on. I heard him gasp and looked over at his face. Such a look of pain in such distorted features, but at least I couldn’t see his eyes. He was holding his breath as if it would lessen the pain, but then he let his breath out. And he opened his eyes and looked right at me. There was no anger there, no accusation. Oh, sure, there was pain, but (you’re not going to believe this) there was also that look of victory. And something more – a look of...forgiveness? I could hardly tear my eyes away from his, but I finally ducked my head and quickly finished the task. I took care of the feet and the right wrist, but I surely didn’t look at him again. It made my heart hurt when I looked in his eyes, and soldiers aren’t supposed to have hearts.

It took three of us to pick the crossbeam up and drop it in the hole. Timnus and Anthony gave a kind of nervous laugh when the beam dropped and the carpenter grunted in pain. They quickly found something to occupy themselves elsewhere. The rest of the detail left to be replaced by a fresh group of soldiers. But I hung around. Well, that’s a terrible pun, but I stayed to see what would happen. It was one of those days when the ground just didn’t feel right – one of our infrequent earthquakes, I guess. And the sky turned black as pitch for hours, but it never rained. There was lots of thunder and lightning, almost as if the gods were upset about something.

I heard it all – how he said he was thirsty; how he asked his father to forgive ‘them’; how he took care of his mother’s future; and finally, that desolate cry of anguish. What was it he said? Oh, yes. “My God, My God, why have You forsaken me?” Then he whispered something else and hung his head and died. And I thought to myself, or maybe I said it out loud, “Truly, this was the Son of God!” (Matthew 27:54)

So, what made Him do it? For surely it was His choice. The nails didn’t hold Him there. Something else did…love, forgiveness, a willingness to follow the divine plan all the way to death. Did it end there? You know it didn’t. There was that story of Him rising from the dead. Do I believe it? You bet I do. And I’ll never be the same again.

~lp 4/13/01

He's Alive !!!

2008-03-15T06:37:00.005-06:00

Is this the complaint department? Can you handle a whining complaint? Last night I got upset; shoot, I got mad - something I haven't done in a long while. And all over a box of tissue. Several years ago when I was working some 12-hr days, Terry lined up a friend to clean our house every two weeks. Even though my schedule is not quite that bad now, she still cleans for us. And I love her dearly. But... She forgets that I need things put back in the same place. Last night, in the dark, (lights on, lights out - not much difference to me these days) I reached for a tissue and the box wasn't in its usual place. For just a moment it flew all over me (a good ole Southern phrase).

My anger lasted less than a minute, but it shook me that it happened at all. You'd think I'd be used to this handicap by now, but occasionally my anger with the entire situation rears its ugly head. The truth is that I turned my blindness and all its attending complications over to Jesus years ago and mostly I'm able to cope (only by His grace). But {gasp!} I'm human! And here's a little secret we may all cherish deep within: Sometimes I just enjoy getting mad. How sad is that!

The tissue issue was the trigger, but, as with most manic emotions, things had been building for a while. For instance, I've had two different short Bible studies that I've been wanting to write for several weeks. In the past I could pick up my Bible any time and read/study. But now I have to go to the office, turn on the computer, load the Bible program. It's just slightly more complicated and that has stifled the creative process for me. This has been a difficult transitional time - changing reading/studying formats - and there will probably be more breakdowns.

So I'm done whining (for now). The computer is on; the program is loaded. Now's the perfect time to work on those two studies I've been thinking about. Prayers, everyone! (and thanks)

2008-03-12T08:18:00.002-06:00

It's recuperation day. Occasionally I can get together w/ all the girls and make a day of it. Yesterday, since Laurie's birthday and Spring break coincided we made it an Event. Monday Laurie & children (w/ the help of a college student friend) went to Southaven to get Molly. Molly spent the night w/ us and we got up Tuesday prepared to roam. Voting was first on the agenda.

Laurie got sitters lined up for the four oldest children, but had to bring Pearce with her. Not a problem for this Mamaw. She picked Molly & me up and we met Katey at the mall area. There are a couple of new stores - Ross's and Maurice's - that we wanted to visit. I found an Easter suit at Dress Barn. Then we met Nanny, Katelee, Tucker & Christina at Logan's for lunch. (I need to come back to the food issue.) After a very good meal, we started shopping again. I found some skirts and tops at Kohl's, but no dark chocolate shoes, which I now need. Katey left us at Kohl's and we went on to the mall. By this time Pearce & Mamaw are beginning to get tired so it's home for us.

But our day isn't over. Terry & I took Molly home to Southaven. Of course, since Terry got Brewster gift certificates for Christmas, we had to stop there for ice cream. It was a very long day & I finally got in bed after midnight.

Now back to the food issue...My friend, Glenda, is having surgery Friday. The type of surgery required her to be on a semi-liquid diet for 2 weeks prior to surgery. As support for her, and because I need it, I joined her in the semi-liquid diet. Some soups, yogurt, jello, puddings, Carnation Instant Breakfast, V8, juices, coffee (lots of coffee), water (lots of water) are on our menu. So you might understand that when I put something solid in my system like salads, hamburgers, etc., my body goes a little haywire. Net result is that in a 1.5 weeks I've lost 5 pounds!! Yea! It will be over three months before Glenda can go back to a regular diet (sorry, modified diet) so here's hoping I can continue to lose more weight. Just so you'll know, her's isn't one of those weight loss surgeries, but it does involve her digestive system and will result in a significant weight loss. Yea for her! This has been so hard for her. For me it's been a choice to support her, but for her it's been a mandate. Naturally, when you're told you absolutely cannot do something, it's harder to do. Add to this that she plans to quit smoking when she goes into hospital, she is going to have a tough time. But she's strong and I expect great things for her.

2008-03-11T06:48:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday, Laurie! It's hard to believe you're 33 years old. It seems only yesterday you were hiding behind your mama when someone tried to talk to you. Those days are definitely gone; you're a people person if ever there was one. I'm looking forward to spending the day with all my daughters today to celebrate "your day".

The weekend was a mixed bag for me. The snow was refreshing and beautiful. Terry & I, Katey & Andy went to the Regional Rehabilitation Center's benefit concert at the Davis Center on the ICC campus. It was a night of bluegrass music with Connie Smith (not quite bluegrass), the Chuch Wagon Gang, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver and Rhonda Vincent. Bluegrass is not my very favorite genre, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. Since it was Daylight Saving Time weekend, it made for a short night's sleep before church. SS class was unusually lively. We did a little role play with Jacob, Rachel & Leah from Genesis 29. It was fun and we all learned a lot.

The blessings of a nursery worker: About every seven weeks I keep nursery during morning worship service. MomaG is not on the volunteer list, but she always works when I do. Another friend of ours was with us Sunday and it's a good thing. We had six little girls from 8 months to 18 months. Gracie & Katherine played the entire time; Rebecca fussed occasionally, but mostly played by herself; Marlee K sat in my lap a while, but eventually decided to play; Hannah talked up a storm w/ a strong vocabulary for an 18-mo old; and AJ cried and cried and cried. Some children just don't do well with strangers and she had a bad day. We changed diapers, mixed up sippy cups, crawled around on the floor, rocked and generally managed the chaos. It was fun and I took a nap as soon as I got home. ~smiles

2008-03-09T17:10:00.003-06:00

Frustration...

I spent about 30 minutes yesterday morning writing a post, then when I tried to publish it, wouldn't you know, I got an error message. Usually I write in MS Word, but I didn't yesterday. My gripe about doing that is that when I write in Word, my codes (bold, italics, underline) don't paste over into my blog. You'd think it would be a simple thing for Blogger to do. I mean, even xanga will accept Word codes. And I don't know enough about html codes to bother with that.

Oh, well, by now you know we had the perfect snow. Blows in overnite; wake to a pristine covering; it's gone by 2pm. If there's a perfect snow, that's it. No sludge; no mess; no ice.

I'll post again when I'm not so frustrated with Blogger. (And if I've totally missed the instructions for pasting Word codes, would some kind soul let me know? Thanks.)

2008-02-16T07:43:00.002-06:00

I’ve missed posting this week, but every time I started to write something it sounded whiny. My work life is a series of challenges and has been for over a year. I know it’s where God wants me to be – what He’s called me to – but the path is rough and my inadequacy is showing through. My boss tells me that in this last series of challenges I may feel inadequate, but the truth is that many of us haven’t been given the tools to do what is required of us. (He always knows how to make me feel better.) Ever heard of ISO9001-2000? 5S/Lean Manufacturing? Kaizan? Me neither until recently. Now I have to become an expert on the fly. It ain’t gonna happen. Oh, I’ll learn, but it’s going to take time. I dreamed about all this early this morning; alll those stacks of paperwork woke me early. That’s not a good sign.

Couple with all this the fact that I haven’t seen my kids and kidlettes in at least 2 weeks and you get a grouchy Mamaw. The sinus bug bit me and I’ve been staying away from them all, especially the tiniest, since they definitely don’t need this respiratory problem. A shot and a Z-pak have done the trick and I may actually get to see at least some of them today & tomorrow. You know I’ll feel better then.

Missing church last week also made me crankier. Being involved in Bible study and hearing God’s Word preached each week breaks the fast of the previous days. You know I do have my own worship time, but God created us to want/need corporate worship. It’s who we are in His body of believers.

For those of you who missed it, Pearce McGuire Phillips made his entrance into our world on February 1, 2008. He’s a laid-back little fellow, according to his mom. You can read more about that family right here. And I really need to see Katelee & Tucker real soon. OK, kids & kidlettes, Mamaw needs an infusion of family time.

2008-02-09T10:29:00.000-06:00

There are many daily Bible reading plans that will take you through the entire Bible in one year. This year I’m going straight through from Genesis through The Revelation, which means that right now I’m in Leviticus. A dear lady in my SS class, who loves and faithfully studies the Bible, is reading in Leviticus and Numbers and commented on how burdensome and boring these two books can be.

Genesis is God’s way of taking us back to our beginnings to show us how He planned, created and orchestrated all of this for all of us. Here He first teaches us of the gloriousness of His plan for us; He reveals as much as we can understand of why He created us. God also shows us how He is always at work in the lives of people, especially the ones He has chosen to carry on His work. Genesis shows us that nothing ever occurs to God; He’s known all of it from forever.

Exodus is the exciting picture of God showing off His glory to a heathen people and to another people who would be His own. It’s a story of millions who would be released from bondage if they would only believe that I AM had come to save them. It would be about brave souls who stepped onto the floor of the Red Sea with a wall of water on the left and another rising on the right. (It makes me laugh to think of the fish that bumped their snouts into the invisible barrier that was God’s Breath holding that water back. ~grins) Exodus is a story of people who wanted to be free, but had trouble putting God’s commandments into practice. An exciting page-turner if ever there was one.

Then we stumble up on Leviticus. There’s a strange feel to this book; it tells of customs and cultures most of us have no knowledge of. Blood sacrifices are abhorrent to our culture, and we wonder at a God Who would give so many laws governing so many different aspects of life. Lots of what God deals with has to do with the health of His people – protecting them from possible infections that could be passed around in a deadly way, teaching them which foods would be healthy for them to eat. And He wanted His people to be different; to look different and act different, to be set apart (holy).

But we do tend to get hung up on the blood sacrifice. There’s blood on the altar, on the mercy seat, and on the priests’ clothes. It’s hard for us to see what the lesson is for us in these passages. Then a verse in the middle of many takes us by surprise. Several years ago I read this verse, did a double take, read it again and ever since it has been very important to what I know about what God did for me.

‘For the life [soul] of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you on the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood by reason of the life that makes atonement.’ Leviticus 17:11 (NASB) [emphasis mine}

God stopped right here in the middle of all the blood and gore and told us about Jesus Christ. You see, it wasn’t just any lifeblood; it was "the blood by reason of the life.” The blood of bulls and goats and lambs would have to be shed over and over again in a never-ending ritual. The same is true if any other human being had tried to sacrifice their lifeblood since none are perfect (spotless, unblemished). But because Jesus Christ lived a perfect, sinless life, His Blood would suffice once for all - "the blood by reason of the life." (Rom 3:25; Eph 1:7, Heb 9; 1Pe 1:19)

Jesus appears numerous times in the Old Testament – never by His earthly name. This is just one of those times that we might miss if we’re not careful. The whole of the Holy Writ is important and can speak volumes to us today. Are you reading God's Word every day? (Psalm 119:105)

2008-02-07T09:33:00.000-06:00

The storms of Monday night came too close for my comfort since Southaven was in the storm path. Terry walked into the bedroom about the time Molly called. He was telling me there was a bad storm where she was and she was telling me the sirens were going off and she was getting Tip and going to the toilet room. Their house was built for wireless Internet so she took the laptop w/ her so she could watch the radar. Kevin was traveling between Germantown & home in the middle of all this. Terry & I talked to Molly on the cell phone the whole time this was going on just to keep her company. It was a horrendous night and my heart goes out to those who are hurt, have lost loved ones or have lost their homes/businesses. Union University got a bad hit, but they will rebuild and go on. I saw a woman on CNN this morning who had no shoes and it was 33*. (Note to Terry: Thank you for making us all put our shoes beside the bed all these years.)

In the aftermath, there was a little comic relief. Tornado Monday & Super Tuesday are vying for air time on all the cable news programs. This morning as Terry & I watched a segment on the storm damage, he mentioned a now-infamous Mississippi lawyer who probably wanted to get things settled quickly so he could sue someone over the storms. I wondered aloud who he would sue this time. Terry responded that he’d probably sue God and win, but he would definitely lose it on appeal. (Terry has a dry sense of humor that catches most people by surprise.)

Katey & Andy closed on their new house yesterday and were able to keep it within the budget they’d set. Andy was in Memphis Monday evening during all the storm trouble, but made it home safe & sound.

Laurie & Pearce are doing fine, but she can’t get all her other babies home at one time. She’s ready to have them home and settled into a routine. L&D are fortunate to have his parents living near them; they are super about keeping the kids.

2008-02-01T18:15:00.000-06:00

Welcome to our world...

Pearce McGuire Phillips
9lb/1oz, 19"
February 1, 2008

2008-01-30T08:29:00.000-06:00

We’ve been all over the place this week. All were anxious for Katey to get home after her 9-day ministry trip to Chile. They arrived safe and sound yesterday. She called as soon as they touched down in Atlanta – 5:25am CST. As a mom I’m always torn. It’s a great concern when your child goes to a foreign country. But it’s also a blessing that she is willing to do God’s will and that Andy supports her and is so great w/ the kids.

And Laurie thought she would have Pearce Monday or yesterday. Didn’t happen. She’s very disappointed and very uncomfortable. Dr. C will put her in Friday if nothing has happened before then. Here again, I’m torn. L&D have 5 (almost) children, with the oldest just having turned 6, so I’m concerned about her health. But I also know they have prayed about this and are following God’s plan for their life together, which is also a blessing.

Molly & I talk on the phone often, but I’d like to see them more. And she would like to be closer to be a part of what little drama we have in our lives. You need to click here for The Saga of the Phones.

2008-01-23T10:44:00.000-06:00

Life has a way of ordering its own priorities. Work takes up a good portion of my waking hours so sometimes the daily challenges / frustrations / aggravations can leach over into my personal life. But in the last few months family has ruled.

We certainly enjoyed all the family festivities during the Christmas season. And Sunday all the extended family came over for Katey’s & Marcus’ birthday lunch. These times of fun, food and fellowship serve to warm my heart and calm my soul when the work aggravation rears its ugly head.

I told Molly that I’d surely been bending God’s ear a lot lately with family issues. Katey, Andy & kidlettes needed to sell their house and move into their new digs. Katey had to make a decision about going to Chile and when the decision was made we all started praying in that direction. Molly & Kevin, while not facing any traumatic events since their move to Southaven, have dealt with strep and a boatload of respiratory ailments. Laurie is 10.5 months pregnant with child #5 (so she thinks) and caring for four small children. Dewayne who does his fair share of caretaing will have oral surgery tomorrow. Marcus had surgery several weeks ago.

So, you see, God has been hearing from me a lot lately about all those near & dear to me. And I am persuaded that our Heavenly Father wants to hear from me regarding these matters. But this morning as I finished reading my Bible, I heard that still small Voice reminding me that I need to spend more time in prayer praising Him for Who He Is. He wants me to consult Him about every aspect of my life; and He certainly wants me to acknowledge to Him my sins so He can lead me to repentance and cleansing.

Am I the only one who tends to rush through prayer time in order to get on with my day? Martin Luther rightly said, “I have so much to do (today) that I must spend the first three hours in prayer.” The frenetic pace of our lives would be ordered properly if we spent more time in prayer and less time trying to figure things out for ourselves.

2008-01-16T12:36:00.000-06:00

I like Joseph; he’s extremely fascinating. His life’s story, so concisely told in Genesis 30 – 50, is one of human error (sin) and divine intervention. When I start reading his story I can’t stop until I reach the end. And when I get to the end, I cry. Why does it make me sad when he dies? Everyone in the Bible died, and stayed dead, except Jesus. There are lots of folks in the Bible that I really like, but Joseph feels like a personal friend.

Joseph’s story has all the human elements imaginable: jealousy, envy, greed, sex, power, lying (not an exhaustive list). The read will keep you on the edge of your seat if you’re reading it for the first time or for the thirtieth time. His is certainly a success story, but that’s not what appeals to me. Maybe it’s that so many events in his life were beyond his control coupled with the obvious workings of God through these events that gives me hope.

He didn’t have humble beginnings; Jacob was rich and powerful. And in his younger years he seemed an obnoxious little pipsqueak – bragging about his dreams and wearing that favorite son symbol in front of his brothers. But life taught him some tough lessons and he matured through his difficulties. A tiny glimpse of the old Joseph shows through when he hides his identity from his brothers, but he can’t sustain the charade and all is forgiven on both sides.

My life is a lot like Joseph’s. Oh, I’ll never be the #2 person in Egypt, powerful beyond thought or measure. But…a) Many events in my life are beyond my control; and, b) God is working through all these events to mold me into the person He wants me to be (if I cooperate). Bro. Jim’s email message today is about “sticking our neck out” for God. That’s what Peter did, and so did Joseph. God did some extraordinary things through both of them. What extraordinary thing might God have planned for me?

2008-01-13T06:42:00.000-06:00

Dire straits...People are concerned about the presidential election. People are concerned about peace in the Middle East. Mississippi people are concerned about the special congressional races. Me? I'm worried about a cut & color.

That's right. My sister-in-law, Betty, has taken care of these naturally curly locks since we married brothers oh so many years ago. I just don't trust anyone else to do it. She knows just how to cut this curly hair to make it manageable; and when the gray started sticking out every which way, she said, "It's time to start coloring this hair to give it some conditioning." I listen to her. If she says it needs to be done, it gets done.

The problem? On Tuesday before Thanksgiving Betty was playing outside with her grandson, stepped in a hole and suffered a spiral fracture to a major bone in her ankle. The nature of the fracture has necessitated a long recovery. In fact, she's still home, in a cast, unable to put much weight on that foot. Walking cast? It ain't gonna happen. Poor Betty. In pain, very uncomfortable, inconvenienced, confined, loss of income. But enough about her. What about me? I need a cut & color.

2008-01-10T14:25:00.000-06:00

Call me crazy, but when the barometric pressure starts dropping, I get sleepy. I mean lie-down-on-the-floor-under-my-desk sleepy. Kids get cranky; I get sleepy. Terry watches the Weather Channel; I go to bed (with my clothes and shoes right by the bed, at his insistence). Where would we go if it “came up a cloud”? Our house is about the soundest structures within miles. Oh well, maybe he’s concerned that I should be properly dressed if the house blows away.

Laurie had a doctor’s appointment this morning and Pearce McGuire should be making his appearance Feb 1st, if not before. She is sooooo ready. Her nights are spent moving from the couch to the recliner to the bed to the couch… Katey & crew are moving into their new house this weekend. We are so proud for them; they’ve sold their other house and are ready for larger digs. And she leaves for Chile on the 21st. Pray for my baby and her family as they face all these new events. Molly & Kevin has strep and stayed home from work one day to let the antibiotics kick in. She still doesn’t feel well, but was going to work, anyway.

.
Couldn’t sleep long under my desk b/c of tornado warnings. The weather’s been nasty in all parts of the state. Closing this out for the time being….

2008-01-08T15:18:00.000-06:00

A trip to the optometrist and ophthalmologist yesterday netted no good news. The double vision I’m experiencing when trying to read is caused by the RP and will not get better. Surely no one likes all the lights they shine in your eyes; for a person w/ RP it’s a nightmare. Big, bad headache. And to make the headache worse, I had to pay $416 just for lenses for two pairs of computer glasses. Merry Christmas, LaRue.

On a happier note…we got a picture of the whole clan Christmas Day. Aren’t we a blessed bunch!

2008-01-04T11:32:00.000-06:00

http://www.xanga.com/kingmookaThis week has gone a lot better than anticipated. When a plant has been shut down for any length of time it’s hard to get equipment to run and employees to cooperate. But things have gone smoothly and it’s been a good week.

My time off from work over the Christmas holidays was such a relaxing, fun vacation. There were a few get-togethers, which we thoroughly enjoyed, and several days of peace & quiet.

The visit w/ my mom, brother, sister-in-law & nephew went well. I was anxious for nothing. Guests started arriving at 3:30 and started leaving about 9:00. There’s no gift-giving at this gathering – we make donations to Foundation Fighting Blindness in memory of DaddyG. We ate and visited and ate and visited and ate some more. Fun!!

News on the family front: Katey is going to Chile this month to work with MKs whose parents are missionaries in South America. And K’s crew will be moving into their new house soon. Marlee K took a few steps Wednesday night and she stands for long periods of time w/o holding on to anything. Check this out for the “sock” story. Pearce McGuire will be making his appearance near the end of this month. And Tip stays in the house on these cold days. A few years ago you’d never have made me believe that Molly would let a dog stay in the house.

Oh, Terry & I didn’t buy the minivan. Too many other things have a higher priority this time of year – taxes, Sep IRA, taxes, EDU funds, taxes…..You get the picture.

2007-12-30T14:48:00.000-06:00

As I wait...

The family will be here in an hour or so. You'd think I would be frantically trying to clean/straighten/organize. Not me. I'm a "Mary" kind of person. I say that almost honestly. The problem is that while it's not crucial for me to have every speck of dust relegated to the trash heap there's a tiny part deep inside that really feels inadequate. You see, some of our guests today are used to linen napkins while 3-ply Vanity Fair is as close to linen as we'll get today. They pour tea from a crystal pitcher while the large plastic canister will have to suffice here. These are folks I love with all my heart, but I do occasionally feel like trailer park trash next to Beverly Hills glitz. Strange, but true.

On a happier note, Terry & I are trying out a '04 Ford FreeStar minivan. Who knows...we might actually buy it.

2007-12-29T12:02:00.000-06:00

It's been quiet around here since Christmas Day. The Kids & Kidlettes departed and left the echoes of happy sounds. Oh, I've talked to all the girls & some of the kidlettes several times since Tuesday, but there've been no small feet running or tiny hands/knees crawling through the house. I've spent these few days napping, computering, studying and eating (which I'll have to give up on Jan 2nd). Terry's worked all but Wednesday so the quiet has almost shouted at me. But I'm one of those people who needs some serious downtime a lot more frequently than I get it. I could have filled my days off with activities, but the need for quiet introspection won out. And, yes, I'm ready for the human interaction again. Good thing, too, since tomorrow is Sunday, which will include church and my families' Christmas meal.

When the TV has been on this week, it's sad message of tiger attacks and martyrdom made me seek other things to do. Thankfully, I discovered iTunes about a year ago and the praise & worship music I've accumulated soothed my heart, mind & soul. And I'm ending the year reading in the book of Isaiah. God's message through this great prophet is not always a happy one, but it is always a hopeful one. There's so much of Jesus, the Christ, in Isaiah's writings and He's so much about hope and life. It's hard to stay sad when reading the scriptures.

I'm looking forward to tomorrow night w/ my mom, brother, sister-in-law, nephew & all our crew. We so seldom get a chance to be together. This year DaddyG has been on my mind more than ever. The first moment I see Darrell is always a shock; he's so much like DaddyG. Can you say "spittin' image"? There's also a funny side to our get-togethers. MomaG, Darrell, Kay & Craig are not used to the chaos associated with lots of little ones. You can see them begin to get antsy after about an hour. Oh, well, it's the price they pay for being kin to this prolific side of the family.

2007-12-26T06:43:00.000-06:00

Christmas Day was a wonderful day at our house. Kids & Kidlettes started arriving about 9:30. Our friend, Janice, also joined us for a few hours. While brunch was warming/cooking, Kevin read the Christmas story from Luke 2:1-20 and led us in prayer. Marlee Kupcake was sitting in Papaw’s lap – next to Kevin. She didn’t make a peep but kept her eyes fixed on Kevin as he read the scripture. Occasionally she’d look back at her Papaw, eyes wide, then her gaze went right back to Kevin. She was enthralled.

One of the funniest scenes of the day was Marlee’s reaction when Papaw took off his cap. She would cry loudly until he put the cap back on. Needless to say, after trying to leave the cap off a couple of times, he finally relented and left it on.

The kids prepared all sorts of food: pancakes, sausage balls, ham/biscuits, stuffed crescent rolls, Morning muffins, breakfast pie and all sorts of snacks. For some reason I didn’t sleep well last night. Wonder why!

For Mamaw’s sake we open gifts one-at-a-time so we can see what each one has gotten. The Kidlettes racked up, as always. The adults didn’t do too badly, either. I got a digital picture frame – something I’ve been wanting; a shirt that says “Somebody special calls me Mamaw”. Make that 6.9 special somebodies. Papaw and I got calendars made with Katelee & Tucker’s artwork. I’ll try to scan some of those for later posts. There were several cameras flashing so I’ll have some pictures to post, too. My most special Christmas present was having all the family together for most of the day. The Kidlettes were in good moods, w/ the occasional whine when hunger or tiredness struck. It’s amazing to me that little ones can act so sweet when their little bodies, emotions and minds are on overload from all the food, attention and new stuff.

What a day! Thank You, Father, for all the blessings You’ve gifted us with.

2007-12-23T14:03:00.000-06:00

He leaned against the splintered post, chewing a piece of straw, while surveying the scene before him. He should be tired, but he wasn't; and neither, apparently, was anyone else. The young teenaged boys sat in wide-eyed wonder, even after working all night. It was the strangest thing: They'd wandered in as if drawn there, as if they belonged. And he didn't have the heart to tell them to leave.

He almost laughed out loud at a tiny lamb that tripped over it's own feet, but his gaze caught the shy smile of his young wife and he didn't want her to think he was laughing at her. She'd been through such a difficult time and had handled it with a quiet dignity beyond her years. The rumor mill had run rampant; and many a time he'd wanted to stuff sackcloth in a gossiping old biddy's mouth. But his wife's calm acceptance of it all had taught him some lessons. He'd thought he would be the teacher in this relationship, but he was learning differently. She'd taught him that if he pleased God, he didn't have to please anyone else; and if he didn't please God, it didn't matter who else he pleased.

The young boys were looking at him with concern and he realized there was a whimpering sound coming from the makeshift bed. He glanced at Mary and saw that she was asleep. No need to wake her. He straightened from the post and walked over to the tiny Babe. Not much experience with infants, but this One apparently needed comforting and he was going to learn. Joseph didn't know why he'd been chosen, but he would give all he had to give to do the right thing.

He smiled in wonder as he picked up this Infant, this King, this Jesus.

~LaRue 2005

A small hand waved in the cold Bethlehem night....

2007-12-22T07:30:00.000-06:00

The infant had somehow escaped his swaddling...again. He seemed to be directing some unseen orchestra. Before she tucked him back into the warm strips of cloth, the young mother checked...again...to make sure he had ten toes. She smiled at his dimpled knees. And she wondered at such an aristocratic nose on such a tiny face. As his soft, tiny hand brushed her soft, nurturing hand, she checked there for fingers and thumb; and lingered to look at his palm. A scripture from Isaiah, one she’d heard her brother repeat, came to mind. “Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands...” (Isaiah 49:16a nasb). This was the first of countless times in the next thirty-three years that she would ponder deep, hidden treasures in her heart. That same heart would turn over with laughter at a toddler’s antics; and catch in her throat with unshed tears when the crowds jeered him; and break half in two when she witnessed his death. But that was for later. For tonight, there was the joy of motherhood. She caught his tiny hand, tucked him close and knew she held a most precious gift in her arms
...really.

Merry Christmas with love,
Terry &LaRue

2007-12-17T09:24:00.000-06:00

I’ll be hard pressed to relate all the wonderful events of last week. Thursday night our SS class went out to eat. Mind you, that’s not all we did. Katrina Estes Hill – author, illustrator & storyteller – entertained us with tales from her childhood. All her stories were in poem format and hilarious. Those of you raised on a farm or near a farm will be delighted by her books. We also played “dirty Santa”. We firmly believe in “stealing” and newbies get the brunt of this tradition. Bro. Kelly (minister of music) had a book, a pair of binoculars and a cake stolen from him. He did finally get a chance to steal the binoculars back & went home happy. My ladies are so nice to me all year ‘round, but at Christmas they shine. Last year I got a beautiful clock from them and this year they gave me the most beautiful afghan, which is a misnomer. It’s a rich wine color velvet that looks more like it should be the focal point on a wall somewhere.

Saturday MomaG & I went to Katelee & Tucker’s Christmas program dress rehearsal since we couldn’t attend Sunday night. Talk about a couple of little hams. They danced and sang with all their hearts. Katelee’s solo was great even though she was upset about some props that were missing.

Katey, Andy & I drove up to Memphis to eat dinner with Molly & Kevin and attend the Memphis Symphony Orchestra & Choir’s performance of Handel’s Messiah – the whole 3-hour piece. Words cannot describe how beautiful it was. We were all awestruck that one man could write all that. The only thing that would have made it more perfect would have been having Laurie with us, but at this stage of her pregnancy she definitely couldn’t sit through the performance, even with the intermission. The Cannon Center for Performing Arts is a huge place that can accommodate lots of activities at once. The auditorium where we were seats approximately 2200 people. Saturday night’s proceeds went to the Orphanos charity. It was so much fun to laugh with the kids – lots of laughter before & after the performance. We got home about midnight - late for this Mamaw.

Last night was the BBC cantata – On This Very Night – a labor of love and you could hear it in every part from the choir and the orchestra. It takes a lot to make something like that come together. Kudos to the choir, soloists, instrumentalists, sound guys, audio/visual team, narrators and Bro. Kelly. And hats off to those who volunteered to kept the nursery.

There's lots going on this week at work; then a long break. If nothing happens, we should be off all next week and the first two days of the next, coming back on January 2nd . Let’s hope nothing happens!

2007-12-10T14:54:00.000-06:00

It was a nice weekend. I planned more for Saturday at home than I was able to accomplish. I wrote my own Christmas cards this year, and while that was done back in April (who knows why it came to me in April??) I didn’t leave enough time for printing. That’s how I spent Saturday morning. And naturally, when you need a printer to work efficiently, it doesn’t work at all. But they’re done and will go in the mail tomorrow.

Last night I went to Parkway for a bar-b-que supper and the Christmas cantata. There’s a young man named Matt who played 2 keyboards and a computer. It was magnificent, as was the entire cantata. The Parkway choir has an unusual amount of depth in all sections for a small church choir. I’d sit through it all again!

This will be a busy week. Darrell is coming over to spend a few days and we’re going out to dinner tonight with MomaG. Thursday night we’re going to the Country Squire for our Sunday School Christmas party. Saturday I’ll go to Katelee & Tucker’s dress rehearsal, then to Memphis for Handel’s Messiah. Sunday night is the cantata at BBC. Somewhere in there I need to work on Sunday school lesson preparation. (Genesis, praise God!) Whew! By then I’ll need to take a vacation.

Those who know me know that music is my heart, so even if I’m tired, it will be worth it. Merry Christmas with love.

2007-12-06T11:03:00.000-06:00

Disappointment reigns. The Kindle did not help me. I think it is a great product – slightly pricey – for someone who is not fighting a battle with double vision. It only happens when I’m using my bifocals to read, so I’m back at my computer using the Libronix Library to read the NASB. I was excited and hopeful, but I’m not devastated that the Kindle didn’t work out. Thank goodness, Amazon has a great return policy.

There are numerous web sites that contain the New American Standard Bible that I could read from, but I chose to buy the Libronix version because I can highlight and make notes. The cross reference feature is easy to use and there are lots of other learning tools that came with it. So I’m satisfied that I have the best thing for me right now.

Laurie’s family is on the mend. They finally decided to join a blogging community. You can find them here. Don’t even ask what Kingmooka means.

Katey’s crew is working hard on their house. They probably won’t be in by Christmas but consider that a blessing now. It might have been too much stress to move during the holidays. Katey is in adult choir which will present their cantata Friday night & Sunday night. And the kids are in the children’s musical. Lots to keep them busy.

I’m hoping we’ll be off the week of Christmas. I am so looking forward to some family time.

2007-12-04T11:02:00.000-06:00

The Kindle is coming! The Kindle is coming! They kept pushing the shipping date back as late as end of year, but I got notice today that it shipped and should arrive tomorrow. Can you guess how excited I am?!! Calm down. Remember, expectations sometimes exceed reality. You can bet I'll let everyone know if it works for me.

My first purchase for the Kindle was the New International Version of the Bible. My second choice, really, but the New American Standard Bible is not yet available in Kindle format. And, yes, I've already written to the Locman Foundation asking them to partner w/ Amazon to make the NASB available. I already have an extensive list of books I want to read, so restraining myself from such easy purchases will be a challenge. Can you say NO?

A trip to the ophthalmalogist yesterday resulted in a horrendous headache. In order to see the backs of my eyes to make sure nothing strange is going on, he had to shine lots of lights back there. Not fun. I don't have diabetes and there doesn't appear to be a brain tumor, so here's what's going on (he thinks): The vision in my left eye has worsened over the last couple of months and my brain (gee, aren't you glad to know I have one?) is refusing to connect info from my left eye with info from my right eye. Poor brain! I thought there was smoke coming out of my ears the other day.

2007-12-02T15:56:00.001-06:00

The entire thing is filled with history, science, math, language, poetry, social studies and civics. Everything we need to know has its' foundation in this collection of books. We might not enjoy all those subjects, but there's one thing we can't resist: It's written by our Heavenly Father.

Today we started studying Genesis (beginning), not as history, but as His Story. The first four words of chapter 1 give us lots of information. Who? God. When? In the beginning. (Ours, not His. He has no beginning or end.) In the beginning God tells me that He planned it all and carried it all out. And our Father started early on eaching us about the Trinity. In fact, the first three verses tell us that at that moment of creation's beginning there was God, Spirit and Son. Oh, the Son is implied (and supported by many other scriptures) by "spoke". You see, John 1:1 tells us that In the beginning was the Word; and the Word was with God and the Word was God.

And if you look at Isaiah 40:22 you'll see that old Chris Columbus could have saved himself a trip. Over 2000 years before he sailed off in the Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria God told us the earth was round. It is He who sits above the circle of the earth...

Of all creation, human beings are unique. God created us for a special relationship with Himself. And at first that relationship was perfect. Do you think Adam and God had fun naming all the animals? A black & white striped four legged animal scampers by and Adam turns to God and says, "Zebra?" God says, "That's good Adam. I like that name." But you know, as much fun as God must have had creating the zebra, He didn't plan to die for the zebra. And He probably smiles when He smells a rose, but He wasn't going to shed His life's blood for a rose. He formed Adam from the dust of the earth and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. (Genesis 2:7)

And God did all this, knowing one day He would lay aside His glory and come to earth to tabernacle with us. He became one of us, only sinless, so that He could save whoever would believe in Him. He lived; He died; He rose again. And He did it for you and me. It's all part of His story and you can read about it in the Bible. When you've read it, or re-read it, go out and tell someone the story of Jesus. They're waiting to hear.

2007-11-30T07:29:00.000-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CATHY!!

Cathy and I have been friends for the longest time – since 1978, in fact. We went to church together back in those days; she played organ & I sang in the choir. Our kids played at Cecil’s and we went out for supper on Sunday nights. We even sang together – Christian music and country music.

Those of you who read her blog surely know she’s a free spirit – always has been – but her move south seems to have freed her spirit even more. We disagree on most things – theology, psychology, politics, social issues – but on this we do agree: we can love and respect each other despite the differences.

Even after all the years and miles between we can pick up conversations and talk as if we only spoke yesterday. I love her smile and her nervous laughter. Her insight into others’ motives and feelings is uncanny. She is not afraid to put her vulnerabilities out there for all to see. And she’s not afraid to step on toes with her opinions. (God love her)

Cathy, my friend, have a joyous, blessed day!

2007-11-24T09:13:00.000-06:00

Friend Cathy has pointed me to a new technology that I hope will be an answer to my reading challenge. It's called a Kindle by Amazon.com. It uses a new technology known as ePaper that eliminates a lot of glare caused by backlighting. One feature that sold me on this reader is the ability to manipulate text size. But that would be useless if there were no books I wanted to read. Yea! There are plenty. Amazon carries a lot of my favorites in Kindle edition: Lucado, Swindoll, Lotz, LaHaye and many others. And there's a ton of other features. It's what Terry is getting me for Christmas...and it may be that late. It's on backorder and they keep pushing the ship date out; right now it stands at 12/6/07.

I hope my expectations don't exceed reality. I read all the pro/con reviews, and came to the conclusion that each person had to try it for themselves. It's pricey, but books are $9.99 and it holds over 200 titles. The only drawback is that right now I can't find a Bible in Kindle edition. If anyone sees one, please let me know.

Kids & Kidlettes are coming over today for Thanksgiving lunch. They're bringing food and I'm only required to make tea. Better get at it.

...in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus...Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 5:18, 23 NASB

2007-11-11T16:10:00.000-06:00

Trustful thanks. It doesn’t roll off the tongue easily. Maybe they meant something else; maybe thankful trust? But, no, it stuck in my mind as trustful thanks. And here’s where it led me….

First, there’s praise. Praise is the awe-inspired, reverent acknowledgement that God is, well, God. He is Creator and Sovereign Ruler. He has always been and will always be. The Triune Godhead is three in Person and one in nature. Praise has nothing to do with me and everything to do with God.

Then, there’s thanks. Thanks is an acknowledgement that God in all His deity and sovereignty rules over my life for His purpose and my good. He has created a beautiful planet for me to live on, replete with all I need to exist. And there are the everyday blessings of family, health, job…I could go on for hours. Thanks is what I give for all the blessings.

But what is trustful thanks? It means giving thanks to God for what He will do in the future. It’s giving thanks when I don’t feel like it. It’s giving thanks when I have no clue how He will answer my petition, but trusting that He will answer to His purpose and my benefit. It’s giving thanks in an information vacuum and trusting Him to work it out.

Trustful thanks is important to where I am right now. Example: This morning it took over an hour for me to read three chapters in the gospel of John and one Psalm. Not too long ago it might have taken 30 minutes. My vision seems to be getting worse. My eyes don’t work together, giving the sense of being cross-eyed when I'm reading printed text. In the near future I may have to read my Bible on the computer. Nothing wrong with that; I just love to hold the book in my hands. Scripture has always been alive to me, running up through my fingers and arms to settle itself in my heart and mind. Reading on the computer will take some getting used to. (And to my friend: No, I don’t worship the Bible, but I do worship the Author and anything He writes to me is very special.)

So, back to trustful thanks. I’m going to thank God in advance for the way He’s going to work in all this. And I’ll thank Him for all the friends and family who pray for me. And I’ll thank Him for Jesus Christ, Who went through so much more than I can ever imagine.

O LORD, You are my God; I will exalt You, I will give thanks to Your name; For You have worked wonders, Plans formed long ago, with perfect faithfulness. Isaiah 25:1 (NASB)

2007-11-10T06:26:00.000-06:00

Weeks of stress and pressure at work finally took a toll and I played hooky yesterday. Those of you who know me know that's way out of character. I don't call in sick unless I'm so physically ill that it would be harmful to others if I showed up. But yesterday was different. In fact, while talking to one of my direct reports (I have two) on Thursday she told me to take a sick day. And I hadn't even told her anything was wrong; she's a very astute person.

It's not that I'm irreplaceable; my parents raised me to know that there are plenty of folks out there who can do the job. My responsibility is to do the very best I can and stay strong. That means going to work every day even if a hangnail is bothering me. It means giving all I have to my job and the people I work with. None of us are owed a job or a paycheck unless we earn it and don't you forget it (I can hear my daddy say).

I'm taking full advantage of this mini retreat. Yesterday I spent some quality time reading the scriptures and praying; there was a little tv watching; a short nap; and Domino's delivered a pizza. {To digress: Laurie says it's a very pitiful thing when the pizza delivery place answers the phone saying, "Hi, Mrs. Peters. The usual?" Glenda & I eat pizza once a week at work and they know us well. It may help that we tip these folks well for bringing our lunch to us. That first bite of a deep dish double pepperoni pizza makes everything better. Talk about comfort food.}

Today will be much the same as yesterday, sans pizza. Some self-examination of my feelings, words and actions over the last few weeks may warrant a trip to the doctor. Or maybe I should just cut myself some slack, do the very best job possible at work and let the rest go. I certainly don't want to start taking anti-depressants again. They are a wonderful thing when prescribed appropriately, but they make me extremely hungry and the weight starts piling on. I'll probably just start using some of the vacation/sick time I've accumulated and see if that helps first. And there'll be a lot more prayer time. Jesus is still the answer.

2007-11-02T07:13:00.000-06:00

Ordinal numbers. Do you know what they are? Early in the week Laurie called and asked, “What are ordinal numbers?” Absolutely nothing came to mind, but I didn’t feel too dumb until she said, “Carter brought home a worksheet and the instructions say to color the ordinal numbers. When I asked him if he knew what they were, he said, ‘Do you mean first, second, third…?’” Note: we should have listened to him.

Oh, yeah, it gets weirder. Not having a clue, I recommended she consult one of our family’s math whizzes. She called Katey and Katey said, “Do you mean first, second, third…?” OK. That cinched it, but we weren’t through yet. Katey said, “I wouldn’t have remembered but Tucker had homework on that subject last week.” Mind you, Carter is in kindergarten and Tucker is in first (ordinal number) grade. And the adults can’t even help them with their homework??

Weirder still…. Last night on So You Think You’re Smarter Than a Fifth (ordinal number) Grader one of the questions for Regis Philbin was “What is the ordinal number for ten?”

Stranger things have happened, but this one has made my week!

Merriam-Webster:
Main Entry: ordinal number
Function: noun
Date: 1607
1 : a number designating the place (as first, second, or third) occupied by an item in an ordered sequence — see number table 2 : a number assigned to an ordered set that designates both the order of its elements and its cardinal number

(Do you know what a cardinal number is?)

2007-10-28T05:36:00.000-06:00

We're waking to a cool Sunday morning. This weather makes me feel better, more relaxed, less lethargic. We're so blessed to have different seasons, each making us appreciate the next and long for the former. When it's cold & dreary will we long for the sweltering days of summer? Well, maybe not long for. Most people probably enjoy spring and fall for the same reasons I do - less extreme conditions.

My friend Cathy told of seeing a beautiful moonrise yesterday. What's more beautiful than a harvest moon peeking over a field, then rising in majesty? It seems so close you could reach out and touch it. Since I'm a morning person my favorite is sunrise, especially when rain is in the forecast. Red sky at morning, sailors take warning; red sky at night, sailors' delight. (Technology that allows a screen as opposed to a tiny viewfinder on a camera is a wonderful thing for people w/ vision impairments.)

In a few hours I'll join many others for a time of fellowship, Bible study and worship. My mom, Laurie & I go to BBC, so there are four generations of us there every Sunday. Laurie couldn't be in this picture because she was the one w/ the camera phone. Maybe next time.

2007-10-20T06:32:00.000-06:00

Surely there’s more going on in the world than what’s in my tiny sphere, but 12-hour work days have kept my focus tight. I’m coming up for air, though, and hoping the long hours are over. Ha! New directives/programs came down this week that ensure more of the hectic schedule.

I probably didn’t miss much. The cursory glances I gave to headlines showed the Dow on its usual rollercoaster, politics as usual inside & outside the Beltway, mudslinging as usual in federal/state/local elections, the usual cultural tensions agitated by outsiders who need a life (and to stay out of my community, thank you very much!).

There are unusually bright spots, though: sweet (but too short) visits with family, dinner with friends, church. Oh! Sunday night a ladies’ ensemble (Laurie included) sang an A cappella version of Gentle Healer. It blew us away; the entire congregation was stunned into silence for an instant, then erupted into applause.

To digress for a moment…applause in worship services bothers some folks while others feel it’s appropriate. Surely there’s not a “right” or “wrong” feeling about this issue unless the applause is strictly performance appreciation. At Belden amens are heard throughout the service and on a few occasions applause has punctuated some much-agreed-with points in Bro. Jim’s sermons. Both amens & applause follow some music – it’s not performance appreciation. It’s a recognition that God has blessed BBC with some extremely talented people who use that talent for His glory. Sometimes the heart, soul and spirit are so moved by a display of God’s glory that only an outward manifestation of praise will suffice. So if you don’t “amen”, applaud or raise your hands in worship, please don’t criticize those who do. And if you do all those things, please don’t criticize those who don’t. End of digression.

2007-10-04T09:31:00.001-06:00

Older people say a baby will “get up out of the way” when there’s another baby on the way. There has to be a kernel of truth in every “old wives’ tale”, so it’s no surprise that Marlee Kupcake has taken to the sippy cup at less than 8 months. And she’s crawling all over the place. It won’t be long before she’s pulling up, then walking, then running. Goodness, the time flies by as the babies turn into toddlers; then toddlers into children; and so on until they’re grown & gone.

Terry and I are so blessed !! (Psalm 127:4-5)

2007-09-30T05:39:00.001-06:00

We’re studying through the gospel of Matthew this Sunday school quarter. As we begin each new book of the Bible I have a fresh appreciation for both the author and his writings. But even more, my appreciation includes God’s use of different personalities. As the Holy Spirit inspired these writers, He used the distinct individualism God graced us all with. For instance, at first reading Matthew’s account of Jesus’ life on earth might seem dry and boring. Not so! He was a tax collector – a record-keeper. His account gives facts with an eye to detail. Mark, a young man, roars through his account like a biker on the open road. You’ll notice frequent use of the word “immediately”. Luke, a physician, tells the story from a caregiver’s point of view, offering more of the human factor – more of what people felt. John’s account soars with the deity of Jesus. All four gospels state clearly, and in so many ways, Jesus’ Messiahship and divinity. As John the disciple tells us, if all Jesus did during His time here was written down, th earth would not hold all the books.

But we do have the treasure of God’s words to us – a tiny glimpse of all the many things He did from the beginning to the establishment of the church. And it is a joy, a privilege and an awesome responsibility to be called to lead others in a study of His word. This year I’m staying a week ahead of the lessons. Each week I hand out a study guide with questions and scriptures that are not in their Learner books. Some use these guides; some don’t. A few actually “study” and some just read the lesson on Sunday mornings before they come to class. Whatever the case, I want to at least provide them with some extra material to use if they so desire.

A teacher knows she’s called when she has the burning desire to share all she learns with everyone around her. That’s how I feel. And it’s not just about teaching. The whole process is a learning experience for me: I learn from my studies and I learn from my ladies. And there’s always a surprise, a nugget of something valuable that God has hidden for us to find. He graces me with more than my heart can hold and He is worthy of my praise.

2007-09-26T12:23:00.000-06:00

Life is sometimes overwhelming when you live where the buck stops. Sandwiched between employees and upper management, those of us in the middle can really feel the squeeze. This has been borne out in the lives of family, friends and my own personal experience over the last few months.

On the one hand, I’m so thankful to have a job – a calling, really – where my abilities find a home and where I can help others. On the other hand, the person in the middle gets all the complaints and none of the credit. And where’s the support? Is it true that everyone is out for #1?

So how do we survive this pressure? As I’ve been praying about it, the first thing that comes to mind is this: My worth is not found in the voices of those on either side of me; my worth is based in Jesus Christ, Who is my Lord and Savior. And it’s really not “my” worth; it’s His. It’s only mine because He graces me with worth.

Second, God is in control. Easy to say; hard to understand. But the truth revealed throughout scripture is that nothing happens in His creation without His express consent. God can change the hearts of our enemies; He can hold us tight and teach us lessons while we go through the storms; He can test our dependence on Him; and He can answer with a greater “yes” than we ever imagined.

Knowing that God is in control and that my worth is bound up in His worth frees me. He will do what is best for me, tough as it may seem at the time. My responsibility in all this is to glorify Him in every circumstance.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24 NIV

2007-09-06T14:43:00.000-06:00

The weeks before and after a holiday are always crazy at work. Everyone is anxious to get a long weekend; then they wish it had been longer. Add to that the fact that the office air conditioner went out and it was 89* in my office for two days with no fan. Got a fan and the air conditioner repaired about the same time. Oh, yeah, the 89* temp was up from the normal 86* is has been in my office this summer when the AC was working. Meltdown!

Terry & I have started a little tradition this summer that we’ve enjoyed. Most afternoons when we get home from work we cut a watermelon (or take the other half out of the fridge) and dig in before supper. We don’t eat a lot (who needs the tummy ache), but we sit where it’s cool & share the day. He has spoiled me by cutting out bite-size pieces for me. We had a few watermelons in a patch at his sister’s house, but the weirdest thing was the voluntary vine that came up under our bedroom window and grew out over our patio. There were a couple of tiny watermelons on the vine, but we also had one at 55 pounds and another larger than that which he didn’t weigh. (Sounds like the fish that got away, doesn’t it?! But other people saw these melons & will testify.)

Our chief chef has been at my house cooking. Laurie is enjoying having all the boys in school. Carter goes to kindergarten every day, and Aaron & Marcus go to preschool Tuesday & Thursday. Those days give her a much-needed respite and some special time with Marlee. Anyway, cakes and pies await me, as well as spinach artichoke dip. Let me tell you….NO ONE can make spinach artichoke dip like Laurie can. Oh drat, every stinkin’ bit of this has lots of calories and loads of fat, but if I divide it up in tiny pieces to dole out sparingly, I can continue the slow pace of weight loss.

2007-08-29T09:19:00.000-06:00

My brother, Darrell, lives in Alabama so we don’t get to visit as often as we’d like. Last night was one of those too rare occasions when we got to sit down and talk for a while. After dinner at MomaG’s the conversation turned to memories of the past.

Like me, Darrell doesn’t have a lot of childhood memories, but some things are imprinted on our brains. He was one year old when we moved from New Chapel to Nettleton, so that’s when his recollections start. I do have some memories of New Chapel, including getting a whoopin’ for throwing rocks at my aunt who is only a few years older than me.

MomaG was surprised at the stories we related, and she told one I’d never heard. They owned the Western Auto & a doctor’s wife asked DaddyG to order her one of the first dishwashers. It was much like the portable ones you can still get today that you manually hook up to the sink faucet. MomaG decided she needed one, too, but it wasn’t money well spent. She said it wouldn’t wash dishes worth a hoot. DaddyG would buy and sell almost anything & one day he loaded up the mattress & box springs off their bed and sold it to someone who’d bought a bedroom suit from him.

Like most towns, Nettleton has a large ditch that runs through it. Darrell & friend Steve decided to try to dam up a section and fill it with water so we could swim. No telling how much water was wasted before they were caught & stopped. And one day I was filling up the plastic pool and didn’t stop at the parent-designated level, so Darrell got a hoe and chopped the water hose in two.

More memories surfaced as we talked and it turned out to be a wonderful evening. I hope we’ll do it more often.

2007-08-28T09:32:00.000-06:00

Being #1 is nothing to brag about. A foxnews.com headline reads, “Mississippi Ranked as Fattest State in U.S.”. Well, gee, who’d-a-thought. A full 30% of Mississippians are obese. (Check out your Body Mass Index here and get more information about weight/health.) The article made me more conscious than ever about my weight loss. It’s a slow go, but I’ve been able to drop a pound or two every month. It doesn’t sound like much, but at least the numbers are going down & not up.

A friend of mine works in the lunchroom at a county school. She says that no matter how appetizing they try to make the healthy foods, kids won’t eat them. So they offer lasagna, spaghetti and other high-carb, high-calorie foods that the kids will eat and offer very little in the way of physical activity. According to the article, schools will have to change their ways this year and next. Let’s hope it works.

2007-08-27T12:57:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was a really good “church” day. At BBC we’ve gone back to the tradition of Sunday school promotion. We all met in the sanctuary and classes were dismissed by age. Quaint, you might think, but it was very effective; just what we needed to stir the spirit of Sunday school. Of all the programs of the church, Sunday school is surely the most critical to the life of a church. This particular program provides for small groups of people who get to know each other (fellowship), study together (discipleship) and meet each others’ needs (service). Most people who are saved have been involved in Sunday school where Christians have witnessed by testifying to what Jesus has done for them. How great is that!?!?

Sometimes the Holy Spirit so fills the sanctuary during worship service that mere words can’t describe the moment. I can tell you what happened in sequence yesterday – we prayed, we welcomed, we sang Days of Elijah and Glorify Thy Name – but if you weren’t there you can’t know the true sense of worship that permeated the room. Every song, every prayer, all the preacher’s points brought us closer to our Father.

And there’s the matter of naps. Huh? Here I was talking about high and holy things, then I switched to naps. Well, that is an important part of my Sabbath experience. After working hard all week, I need to recuperate and rejuvenate. A nap usually does it for me.

Last night I visited Parkway Baptist to hear their choir present a summer musical – Sanctuary. There was a very good balance of praise songs, old Southern gospel and traditional songs. There’s a thread you’ve probably picked up on: music leads my spirit to worship.

And I got to see some of the kids and all the kidlettes this weekend. See pictures here.

2007-08-22T07:05:00.000-06:00

Yesterday ended better than it started. Maybe it has something to do with expectations. It was just another day at work, but after work I had a treat. MomaG and my cousin, Susan, from Atlanta picked me up at 4:00 and we took the grand tour of the Nettleton/New Chapel area. We spent a lot of time revisiting the past by going to sites where our parents/grandparents/great grandparents lived years ago. MomaG remembers a lot of our family history. We made a brief stop at New Chapel cemetery where many of our relatives are buried, including my dad, Susan’s mom and our grandparents. Susan commented that we’re probably kin to most of the folks buried there.

Our meandering led us to Applebee’s for supper (Southern for dinner). Calories don’t count on your birthday, do they? Then we backtracked to see the progress being made on Katey & Andy’s house. I hated to leave the good company, but this chick goes to bed with the chickens in order to be up at 4:15.

There were phone calls from my girls and my brother, a very sweet post from Carolyn, cards in the mail and emails – all sending birthday wishes. (And a Terry rendition of “Happy Birthday”) All in all it was a very good day.

2007-08-15T15:09:00.000-06:00

It’s almost intolerable, and I’m inside. How on earth do people work outside in this heat?? The air conditioner in our office hasn’t cycled off all day and it’s still over 80*. Do you know how hard it is to cool a metal building?!? Tempers aren’t faring very well in this extreme heat, either, and we’re moving about as fast as molasses in winter. Ah, for winter. Laurie expresses my sentiments when she says, “I don’t do HOT.”

For those of you who believe it has to do with global warming, I remind you that in the 1930’s the South experienced these same kinds of consistently HOT days. And, no, I wasn’t alive then, but I’ve seen some of the data. Most seniors I've heard talk about the weather say it goes in cycles and this just happens to be one of the hot ones.

Stay cool. Stay hydrated.

2007-08-12T11:29:00.000-06:00

It's been a Mamaw kind of weekend. Marlee Kupcake kept me company Friday night for a few hours while her mom & dad had some much-needed alone time. Then she stayed with me a few more hours yesterday afternoon. We ate, we slept, we talked. She told me all sorts of secrets that I'll never tell. { 1. because I can keep a secret, and 2. because she was speaking another language. :-) } And her brothers visited for a while, too. Lest I forget, Laurie & Dewayne were here. Now I understand how my mom & dad felt when we took the girls to visit them; they hardly knew we were there for all the attention they were giving the little ones.

The Sunday school lesson this morning came from Malachi 1, about how worthy God is of our love and how that love should manifest itself in our daily lives and our corporate worship. Lots to digest and evaluate. The entire worship service was very powerful. Anyone who knows me, knows that music is, to me, the purest form of worship. The Offertory, How Great Thou Art, lifted us up to glimpse God's Glory. The special music, a very different genre, got us pumped up and ready to hear God's Word. Bro. Jim preached a powerful sermon about keeping the lighthouse clean. First Corinthians 5 is a very difficult scripture and much shunned by today's church, but Bro. Jim's teaching showed that scripture is very clear about church discipline. Lots more to digest and more examination needed in my own life first. I do love God's Word.

It's back to work tomorrow with triple digit temps and even higher heat indices. Everyone should remember to stay hydrated - water or power drinks, not carbonated or alcoholic drinks. Have a great week and remember Whose you are.

2007-08-10T07:53:00.000-06:00

A much needed day off. YEA! The down side is that our work has slowed some, but we're hoping we'll have only a few short weeks. The up side is a break from the daily grind. And we conserve energy by turning off the air conditioners and lights and all the equipment for an extra day. Thursday the air conditioner in the office area never cycled off and at 3:30 it was still 80* in there.

Hey, the Tupelo plant won the LC Industries Safety Award for the second year in a row. Our percentage of workers' comp related injuries/illnesses per employee was the lowest of any other site - 2.2%. We had a pizza party and extended lunch break yesterday to celebrate. Our Health, Safety & Environment Manager is working on an incentive program (more than a pizza party) that will reward locations throughout the year for staying safe. One reason competitive industry hesitates to hire people who are handicapped, especially those who are blind, is a fear that the person will pose a safety hazard. Actually, the opposite is true: we have a much better safety record than other like industries.

Here's a look at "my folks".

2007-08-07T11:20:00.000-06:00

I promise it's not laziness; there's just no time for two posts today. Click here for news about my kids & kidlettes. Cathy, you can share my secret now & thanks for keeping the confidence. You're a friend, indeed.

2007-07-30T14:14:00.000-06:00

The computer hasn’t been on all weekend and I’m far behind in posting. Maybe the muse has deserted me. It was an extremely busy weekend – busy for this homebody, at least. Friday night and Saturday morning I went to a Growing Churches Conference at 1st Baptist. Talk about a bargain: Attendees got to choose 5 classes for the sum total of $5.00. You can’t beat that, especially since the classes were well-prepared, well-lead and very helpful. The conference wasn’t just for pastors and other church staff. There were more lay people there than ministerial staff.

Katey & I left the conference and headed straight to Carolyn’s house. She started a tradition 4 years ago where all Mrs. Virginia’s kids and kidlettes and great kidlettes get together the last Saturday in July and grill burgers. Every family provides a side dish. For the longest time in the Peters family there were no little ones to coo over and rock to sleep, but now we have a passel of them. If I didn’t leave anyone out, the latest count is 14 under the age of eight. Rowdy times, but what a blessing!

The only regret this weekend is that I didn’t get to go to the Plantersville Reunion. Read Cathy’s post and George’s post if you’re interested. (And to make it even more fun, the link function isn't working properly. You can link to Cathy's site to the right and from her site choose The Plantersville Connection.) Sounds like everyone had a really good time. Buddy, Betty Sue & CD went before lunch at Carolyn’s and got to see lots of folks they knew. Who ever thought this up had a really great idea. Kudos to all who worked on it !!

2007-07-30T14:01:00.001-06:00

The computer hasn’t been on all weekend and I’m far behind in posting. Maybe the muse has deserted me. It was an extremely busy weekend – busy for this homebody, at least. Friday night and Saturday morning I went to a Growing Churches Conference at 1st Baptist. Talk about a bargain: Attendees got to choose 5 classes for the sum total of $5.00. You can’t beat that, especially since the classes were well-prepared, well-lead and very helpful. The conference wasn’t just for pastors and other church staff. There were more lay people there than ministerial staff.

Katey & I left the conference and headed straight to Carolyn’s house. She started a tradition 4 years ago where all Mrs. Virginia’s kids and kidlettes and great kidlettes get together the last Saturday in July and grill burgers. Every family provides a side dish. For the longest time in the Peters family there were no little ones to coo over and rock to sleep, but now we have a passel of them. If I didn’t leave anyone out, the latest count is 14 under the age of eight. Rowdy times, but what a blessing!

The only regret this weekend is that I didn’t get to go to the Plantersville Reunion. Read Cathy’s post and George’s post if you’re interested. Sounds like everyone had a really good time. Buddy, Betty Sue & CD went before lunch at Carolyn’s and got to see lots of folks they knew. Who ever thought this up had a really great idea. Kudos to all who worked on it !!

2007-07-19T14:33:00.001-06:00

“…let them not look at God through difficulties, as we see the sun shorn of splendor through a fog; but let them look at difficulties through God. Let them put God between themselves and the disasters which threaten them. Let them cast the whole responsibility upon Him. Has He not thus brought you into difficulties, that He may have an opportunity of strengthening your faith, by giving some unexampled proof of His power? Wait only on the Lord, trust also in Him: His name is Jehovah-jireh; He will provide.” Abraham, or the Obedience of Faith by F.B. Meyer

It’s not a disaster that I face, but an uncertain time at work. There are some personnel issues that are plaguing me now and the deep breathing is not quite enough to decrease the stress level. But I can depend on God to show up and prove His transcendent power.

And while I’m waiting…..Think of family. Think of friends. Think of mountains and gurgling brooks. Think of baby kisses and husband hugs. See! My blood pressure is going down already.

2007-07-13T14:31:00.000-06:00

Sweet, messy, wet baby kisses are a treat. That’s what I got yesterday after Marlee Kupcake finished her bottle. She took a little catnap while drinking her afternoon snack and woke up in a sweet mood. Even at 4+ months, she likes to “give sugars”. Little Miss Bright Eyes laughed like she’d done something great. Mamaw thought so, too..

Those sweet moments make up for some of the rougher ones that come during working hours. But there are some bright spots. One of my employee’s went to a convention in Atlanta the week of the 4th. His group toured the Coca-Cola plant and he brought me a 6-ounce Coke. I don’t even care for the Coca-Cola drink, but take one of the little ones, ice it down until crystals form and there’s absolutely nothing better.

I’m not the nostalgic sort, but the little Coke brought back a couple of good memories. While I was looking for a bottle opener (who uses those any more?) I remembered that when I was growing up, there were no canned drinks and none in the plastic bottle with the screw-on top. Every single time my friends & I opened a drink in a glass bottle, we ran our fingers around the mouth of the bottle to remove the rust (?), then put our thumb inside and “popped” it.

Another memory is of the old Catfish Hotel on the Tennessee River. We had to climb a narrow set of rickety old stairs to the restaurant. They served the best slaw – my first memory of paprika. And they kept bringing the little Cokes as long as we asked for them. By the time we finished our catfish dinner our table was littered with a sea of empty Coke bottles. Daddy, Mama, Darrell & I always went with Mama’s sister & her family who lived in Corinth. (We did a lot of vacationing & weekend loafing with Uncle Paul, Aunt Ruth, Richard & Susan.) We’d sit there over the empty bottles and the bones of those fish, look out over that muddy river and laugh about eating fish from it. I do miss my Aunt Ruth.

2007-07-11T09:31:00.001-06:00

We’re beginning to feel almost human again. Rain on Saturday morning, Sunday afternoon and this morning. It’s too late for most of the vegetables in Terry’s garden, but we have really needed the rain for other reasons, too.

I’m one of those people who need a rainy, gloomy day occasionally. I would have enjoyed staying home this morning just to soak up the dreary day. Sunshine is great, but the inner me needs the opposite. People who suffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) use light therapy. Is there a “dark” therapy? Oh, yeah, it’s called “blindness”. Seriously, it’s not what I can or can’t see; it’s what I can feel. Weird, huh?

2007-07-07T10:30:00.000-06:00

It does me good - spirit, heart, soul, mind & body - to spend time thinking about Who God is and how I fit in to His creative purpose. That's what I did this morning on the treadmill.

God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit - three in person; one in nature. These three Persons of the Trinity work in various ways in Their creation. Two places in scripture place all three Persons in our world at one time in special ways. The first chapter of Genesis records these words, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters. Then God said..." John tells us in his gospel that, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." (1:1) The second place can be found in Matt 3:16-17 where Matthew records, "After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him, and behold, a voice out of the heavens said, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased.'"

There's a picture in my mind of the Father, seated on His throne in Heaven, completely Sovereign and perfect in all His ways. He tells us in Isaiah that He knows the end from the beginning; therefore, nothing is outside His control. He doesn't fret or wring His Hands when humans make mistakes; there is no Plan B with God. As hard as it is for us to understand, He got it right the first time and there is no do-over. Our Father is just and will not abide or tolerate sin. So how can sinful man have a relationship with Him?

We can see the Son, Jesus Christ, seated beside the Father, who has given Him all power and authority. (Matt 28:18; Rom 1:4; Eph 1:18-23) The Son paid the perfect price for our sins and only through Him can we approach our Father. (1 Tim 2:5) Can't you just hear Him!

"Look, there she comes through the throne room door. Your daughter's heart is shining with joy that she belongs to Us. Just hear the praise pouring from her. Don't We love her beyond words or measure!"

"Look, there she comes through the throne room door. Your daughter's heart is dark with sin she wants to confess. Isn't it right that she runs to Us instead of away from Us when she's done wrong! Don't We love her beyond words or measure!"

"Look, there she comes through the throne room door. Your daughter is bowed down with a burden much to heavy for her. Isn't it good that she comes to Us for relief. Don't we love her beyond words or measure!"

The third Person of the Trinity is the Holy Spirit: Indweller, Comforter, Friend, Guide, Teacher, Convictor, Remembrancer. Christ dwells in us through His Spirit. Col 1:26-27 says, "...the mystery which has been hidden from the past ages and generations, but has now been manifested to His saints, to whom God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."

This is all so far beyond my comprehension, but I have no trouble believing it because on occasion the Father, Son and Spirit smile on me, as if to say, "Let's give her a glimpse. She doesn't deserve it, but don't We love her beyond words or measure!"

2007-07-07T06:32:00.000-06:00

Normal people sleep late on Saturdays - especially rainy Saturdays. No claim to normalcy here. I was awake and out of bed before 5am. Of course, the benefit is a quiet time with the sound of gentle rain and the smell of brewing coffee.

No long post right now. I'm scanning pictures that you'll be able to see in my xanga photo album later this weekend.

2007-07-06T06:56:00.000-06:00

It’s been a strange week. With a holiday smack in the middle, there’ve been two Mondays and two Fridays and two Saturdays. Weird. Our company allowed anyone who wanted to take a vacation this week to do so. We’ve been working w/ a half crew, but it’s been a lot quieter, for some reason.

An employee and friend lost her baby brother this week. This 43 year old man worked Tue morning, mowed the yard Tue afternoon, laid down for a nap Tue evening and never woke up. How very sad for this dear family. Another employee’s dad is on total life support and they are agonizing over the decision that could end his life. Been there, done that. Hurts terribly. (Note to self: Make a living will very soon. Note fo family: DNR)

On a lighter note......

Home-made strawberry ice cream….yum-yum. Laurie & crew came over Wed afternoon bearing a sweet gift. David (D’s dad) makes a mean ice cream. I’ve been rationing it and I’m already looking forward to the last installment tonight. It’s not helping my weight loss effort, but IT IS SOOOOO GOOD.

Look on my xanga site tomorrow for a few new pics.

2007-07-02T11:40:00.000-06:00

It’s a matter of semantics to most folks, but ask a person who is blind, deaf, paralyzed, etc., and they will tell you it matters greatly. People who don’t have a physical handicap are prone to refer to those who do as dis-abled. News flash! We’re not dis-abled; we’re handicapped. “Disabled” implies we are not able and that’s far from the truth. And it’s not just the people who have physical challenges who are handicapped. There’s the man who can’t get a job; the single mom w/ no financial support; the teen w/ abusive parents; the successful career woman who hides her crippling emotional baggage. Whether it’s chronic back pain or chronic heart pain, it’s a handicap. And we all have them.

I thought of Mike Orman recently and it brought all this to mind again. If you’ve heard my “Mike” story, just skip this part.

Mike used to build street rods, work on motorcycles and race both. After he went totally blind from diabetic retinopathy he still built street rods and worked on motorcycles. And occasionally some dummy would take him out on a back road and let him drive. One night Mike and his wife went out to dinner at Malone’s Fish & Steak House. When they were about to leave they ran into a sighted guy and his date. Since James worked w/ Mike, there was lots to talk about, but it was sprinkling rain. Mike’s wife noticed they had a flat & relayed this info to Mike. James said, “I’ll get my date seated and come back to help you.” Mike was removing the flat when he heard James walk up behind him and start talking. Since he didn’t offer to help, Mike continued the messy job of putting on the spare. When he finished, he put all the tools and the flat in the trunk and they were on their way. He sneered when he said to Wanda, “James certainly was a big help.” Wanda laughingly replied, “Yes, he was. He stood there and held the flashlight for you the whole time.”

You see, James didn’t think of Mike as disabled. To James he was just another guy who could take care of things. It probably took Mike a little longer to change the flat (hence the description handicapped), but he still accomplished the task with no help. Oh, except for the light of the flashlight, which he couldn’t see!

So when you catch yourself referring to someone as disabled, stop and think. Are they really? Or do they just have a handicap, like most other human beings?

2007-06-30T10:21:00.000-06:00

My life hasn't been this busy since the girls were living at home. Work takes up way too many hours of my day, especially days when there's a conference call that prevents me leaving work until 6pm; and inventory days; and evaluation days. Since my work day begins at 6:15am, these sorts of things make for long, tiring days. It's hard to get in any treadmill time when I leave home at 6a and get home at 6p. There will be a smaller group at work next week. Quite a few employees opted to take their vacation time now. Entirely too hot for me. I'd just as soon be in an air conditioned building and take my vacation in the mountains in October. Add to my hectic work schedule a trip to Southaven to look at a house Molly & Kevin are making an offer on and a couple of hours at the salon getting my hair color rejuvenated. Now that I think about it, I do need a vacation.

One way to use my vacation time is a few days off before the new Sunday school quarter begins. That way I can do some indepth study of the Bible book we'll study for 3 months. Nothing satisfies like burying myself in God's Word and letting His Spirit teach me.

Kevin's mom & dad are being displaced by the new Toyota facility, and Terry is going to wire the new house they will build. Kevin & Molly are starting new jobs and buying a new house. Katey & Andy are building a new house & putting the kids in a new school. Laurie & Dewayne have their hands full w/ babies & work. Our lives are full and blessed. How rich can one family be?!?! And how grateful we are to our Father for all He does for us!

2007-06-26T13:27:00.000-06:00

Anniversary # 36 !!!!! Terry & I celebrated 36 years of wedded bliss yesterday. Well, there may have been a few rough spots along the way, but we persevered and here we are, together still. Sometimes he worked at it harder than I did and sometimes I did all the work. What you call compromise? We’ve both mellowed over the years and to be honest, he spoils me rotten. There’s a song the Forester Sisters recorded several years ago that says what I feel.

Looking in my life thru
the eyes of a young girl,
Growing older all the time,
maybe just a little wiser.
I can clearly see all my
mistakes keep coming back to visit me.
Pointing out the roads not taken
So much I'd like to change,
but one thing I'd do the same.

I'd choose you again
I'd choose you again
If God gave me the chance to do it all again
I'd carefully consider every choice and then
Of all the boys in the world,
I'd choose you again

Given the chance, I’d do some things differently – better. But I wouldn’t change Terry. I’d choose him again.

2007-06-23T07:56:00.000-06:00

The weight loss effort is an up and down process. PUN INTENDED. I was thrilled Wednesday when I stepped on the scale and had lost 5lbs. Ha! The next day a pound reappeared from somewhere. Just how many calories does a chicken BLT salad from Wendy's have? Thursday night my SS class went to Bonanza and last night Terry picked up supper from Old West. Let me tell you....this morning I walked 30 minutes and plan to walk another 30 minutes this afternoon. People, please do not put food in front of me.

MY BABY'S HOME! Well, almost. Katey called this morning as soon as they landed in Atlanta after flying most of the night from Keto Ecuador. (Yes, Terry, their arms were very tired.) Oh, did I mention she called at 5:15am? That's perfectly OK. I needed to know she was back. Lots of family & friends went to Atlanta yesterday so they could meet the plane this morning.

Habakkuk calls. I'm outta here.

2007-06-18T08:58:00.000-06:00

George gave some more details and some different scenarios about the voting issue, and I appreciate that. I understood all that, but here are the problems I have with it:

1) There probably are some people who are dishonest enough to try to pad the votes for a certain person. Please do not assume that it is only Republicans who might do this. Dishonesty knows no party affiliation. Would it be that many in the grand scheme of things? Enough to change an election outcome? Surely not. Usually, you can't get 10 people to agree on anything, much less try to influence the outcome of an election.

2) I've always been opposed to the primary system. There have been candidates in both parties that I really wanted to see elected. If I was voting only for sheriff, there'd be no problem. But maybe I want to vote for a republican sheriff and a republican tax collector, but there's a democratic constable I really want to see elected. I can't even vote to make sure that person gets into the general election.

OK, I'm gonna get off this kick for a while, but thank you George, for weighing in. I like to have different perspectives to consider.

On a more positive note....Janet, Laurie's mother-in-law, MomaG and I kept nursery at church yesterday. That's always a hoot. We had Marlee K and 5 other babies between 2 & 8 months. We were hot and tired at 11:30, but when all was said & done, we were 3 happy Grandmas.

2007-06-15T10:43:00.000-06:00

See links below for a Daily Journal article and an opinion.

It’s true. We will no longer be able to vote for “the person.” We will be required to declare a party affiliation or “unaffiliated”. If we declare “unaffiliated”, who can we vote for? We also will be required to show a registration card and a photo ID in the primary, something that has been struck down by other courts in other states. Wouldn’t it be more fair to allow one person to vote for one person, no matter the person’s party affiliation? As a Mississippian I feel like the proverbial red-haired stepchild.

Opinions I’ve read seem to stick on the issue of Republicans “raiding” the Democratic candidates, therefore changing the outcome of elections. No one seems to see the deeper, more sinister issue of citizens being denied their right to vote for the person of their choice. And, to me, that’s what it amounts to. Why should either party be afraid of the other. If candidates and supporters get out and work to get voters registered (period), then a few folks from one party would not be able to influence the outcome of an election.

Color me disappointed, frustrated, irritated, oppressed and abused. And yes, I would say that even if I leaned toward democratic candidates. I DO NOT like being told who I can vote for. So, there!!

Article
Opinion

2007-06-14T07:39:00.000-06:00

Maybe I should just weigh once a week. It’s disheartening to step on the scales and not see any change. That’s been the case for 3 days. And the kicker is that I walked 31 minutes yesterday afternoon and 16 minutes this morning at 4:15. And, no, I didn’t overindulge in food yesterday. Oh well, maybe there will be an improvement tomorrow.

A local political candidate told me something yesterday that irritates me. I’ve always thought my voting rights were being abused when I had to choose which party I would vote for in the primaries. Sure, I lean more in the Republican direction, but occasionally I’d like to vote for a particular Democrat. This guy told me yesterday that even the current law is about to become much stricter. After next year I will have to register as a Republican or Democrat and I will not be allowed to cross-over and vote the other way even in the general election. Can someone tell me? Is that information correct? How can that be right? When I pointed out that I know of other states where you can vote for either party, even in the primaries (as long as you only vote for one person), he told me that we are covered by the Voting Rights Act and some other states are not.

Now, I understand the reasoning behind that law. Blacks, in the 50s & 60s were treated terribly at the polling booths, but thankfully, things have changed. My voting rights are already restricted too much, and now my rights will be restricted even more. How can this be right?

2007-06-13T16:38:00.000-06:00

Cathy made me do it. Yes, she did. It's all her fault. Mommy, I don't want to exercise! Whine/Whine. Yep, Ms Sippi, I broke out the old treadmill and walked for 31 minutes this afternoon. I hereby try to promise to try to walk 15 minutes every morning to get my metabolism kicked into high gear and at least 20 minutes in the afternoons. Are you happy now? Huh? Is that enough for you? And BTW, I've lost 4 lbs, also. I'm already on the Calorie Count site and it's great. Don't pout when I tell you I can consume 1928 calories/day. Of course, my daily life is significantly different.

I'd love the water aerobics, but with the challenges I have, the treadmill will have to be my pal. It's a really good time to pray and sing praise songs. This afternoon as I was breathing in through my nose & out through my mouth, it occurred to me that I could inhale the Holy Spirit and exhale my sins. When I started naming them specifically it took me all of the 31 minutes and I still wasn't finished. And that's just today's sins. You know, dear friend, I'm really glad to have been inspired by you. Let's get healthy together!

2007-06-12T11:52:00.001-06:00

We had the best time Saturday. After photo sessions Katey, Laurie, Molly & Carolyn came over for pizza. And naturally they brought all the kids. (Ha! I wouldn’t let them come if they didn’t bring the younguns!) We all enjoyed pizza then just visited for a while. It’s been too long since we’ve done that. Anden, Carolyn’s daughter, let me rock her to sleep and so did Marlee Kupcake. (Was I in heaven, or what!) I just love being around the little ones. And the big ones are kinda nice, too.

But, if you’ll remember, I was sick all of last week, so when they all left, I crashed. Goodness, I didn’t know sitting around, talking & rocking babies would wear me out. I made it to Sunday school, but was coughing so much I didn’t stay for worship service. Katey, Katelee & Tucker came over for Sunday lunch, but didn’t stay long. Getting ready for Ecuador takes a lot of her time.

It’s awfully hot here. Cooling a 25,000 sq ft room takes a lot of energy & BTUs, but I definitely want my folks to be comfortable if at all possible. And, BTW, where is the rain? Our yards & gardens put me in mind of Ezekiel’s dry bones. Lord, please send a soaking rain for this drought plagued area.

I’m so disappointed. The Plantersville reunion is the same day that I’m signed up for a morning seminar, then a family event – both planned long in advance. It would be great to see all those folks who were such a big part of our lives.

Lunch hour (a misnomer) is over and it’s back to the salt mines.

2007-06-09T07:53:00.000-06:00

Finally! I may actually live. Several times during this week Terry's mother's words came to mind. "I'll have to get better to die." My two biggest failings with sickness are: 1) hating to go to the doctor, and 2) refusing to stay home & rest. Gets me every time. One day there will be a really big price to pay if I don't change my ways.

I finally got my voice back yesterday and had some of those one-minute manager moments w/ some folks. And, no, they weren't all of the negative sort. My comeuppance arrived in a phone call yesterday afternoon. Don't you just hate it when you do what the boss tells you, then he backpedals when his boss questions it. I was left in the commonly known position of "holding the bag." Oh well, it's why they pay me the medium bucks.

Good news: The staples seem to be working. I lost 3 pounds in a week. Whether it's physical or psychological, I'm just glad it works for me. For those of you considering this method for weight loss, be VERY SURE to use a reputable healthcare provider. Video store clerks are not recommended and should be shut down.

My friend, Cathy, is (almost) inspiring me to exercise. I have a treadmill, but the carport will have to be cleaned out before I put it out there again. And there's no room inside the house. Excuses, excuses.

Laurie & family had a great vacation in the Ozarks last week. And lived to tell about it, even while traveling with 4 small children. Her in-laws went with them & brought the kids back a day early so Laurie & Dewayne could have some much-needed alone time. The carpenters have started framing Katey & Andy's house. A plus to building outside city limits is that there are no street lights so you can see the stars. They're excited. And Katey leaves for Ecuador next Friday. I'm praying hard & leaving it in my loving Father's Hands. They've raised the money and made all the preparations. Molly & Kevin celebrated their 5th anniversary yesterday. He starts his new job the 18th and they're still looking for a house. Molly will start teaching in the fall. MomaG just got back from Gatlinburg. "You go, girl" can always be applied to her, although her trips are not as long as in the past. She does love to travel.

Katey, Laurie & Carolyn are taking their kids to have pictures made today. Molly is going along for crowd control. So there's a better than good chance that I'll get to see my kids & kidlettes today. Mamaw is happy. :-)

2007-06-03T06:00:00.001-06:00

Most of us were taught, early in life, to share. In some cases sharing is not a good thing. Some of my employees brought a respiratory virus to work and shared it w/ me. And I'm sure that I shared it with others. I still feel absolutely yucky, so no church today. But no choice about going to work tomorrow. The guy I depend on in my absence is on vacation. Since he'll retire in October, it's time to start getting someone else trained for the job. It's not as easy as you'd think. Employees tend to take advantage of a new person - much like a substitute teacher.

Last year I began a weight-loss regimen that worked for me. I was able to lose and keep off about 18 pounds. The Thanksgiving/Christmas holidays put the brakes on, and now it's time to start again. Acupuncture worked the last time, so that's my method of choice again this time. Dr. Z uses needles on some who are allergic to nickel, but for those of us who have no such allergy, we get staples. Yep, she uses a small staple gun to put a staple in each ear. Skeptical? It doesn't work for everyone, but it surely did help me. And, yes, I realize there's a psychological aspect to it, but if it works, why not? About 10 minutes after she put the staples in, I felt as if I'd just eaten. Maybe the staple pressing on a particular nerve tricks the brain into thinking I'm full.

We got rain yesterday----YEA! The rain guage showed 1-1/4", which was almost a flood for the Tupelo area. It's been dry as a bone here. What we really need is a 3-day soaker, but we're thankful for every single drop. The forecast for the next seven days is DRY & HOT. Crank up the air conditioning.

2007-05-28T07:01:00.000-06:00

She's mean.
She doesn't like me.
She's on the warpath.

WELL!! Yes, all those statements are true if you consider that I was trying to get some grown people to do what they're paid to do. Can you spell W.O.R.K. ?? I can laugh about it now, but it's very frustrating when one or two new people can stir up so much trouble. As you might guess, last week was a bully-wooger. Am I getting too old for this? At any rate, it's been good to have a long weekend to regroup and chill. (Yes, I said chill.)

Last night's phone call really put my priorities in order. Katey called as she & Andy were enroute to the hospital to be w/ friends. Kylie Grace (5 months old) was born w/ numerous health problems and has undergone a lengthy, complicated surgery. Her road to good health will be lifelong. In a fluke accident last night her mom fell while carrying her in the yard. Now Kylie Grace is in LeBonheur w/ a bruise on her brain and a fractured skull. Please pray for this precious baby and her parents. They've been through so much. Their faith is still strong and the family/friends support around them is great. Pray for God's healing power to work in Kylie Grace; for His peace to pour over Casey & Phillip; for His knowledge to be found in the doctors & other caregivers; for His arms to wrap around this family as they go through this newest trial.

Molly's going for an interview tomorrow at a DeSoto county school. She & Kevin spent Saturday looking for a house near Memphis. Kevin starts his new job June 18th and they don't have a place to live, yet. They're not worried and neither am I. God has a plan. Laurie & family are going to the Ozarks for a vacation this week. Can you imagine traveling with 4 younguns, 5 years & under?!? Katey is getting ready for VBS, then her mission trip to Ecuador (while they build a house).

I love standing on the sidelines and watching their lives unfold. We are so rich and blessed.

2007-05-20T12:57:00.000-06:00

Occasionally I assign homework to my Sunday school class. (They grumble.) Our assignment for this week was to read Psalm 119 and pick out any verses that did not refer specifically to God's Word. Yesterday I read through all 176 verses and underlined every time David used words (interchangeably) to mean Law. In the NASB he used word, way, law, judgments, ordinances, precepts, testimonies, commandments and statutes. In a couple of cases I felt David's use of word conveyed more of the meaning of future promises rather than being a synonym for law. I could find only 4 verses that didn't specifically mention the law. That's right - 4 out of 176.

What does this teach me? God's Word was important to David. God's Word should be important to me. In two verses David tells us he hates false ways. How did he recognize false ways? He thought about, meditated on and prayed over God's Word. We have to remember that He didn't have the 4 Gospels or Paul's letters or John's or Peter's. He had the Law handed down at Mt. Sinai, and he loved it. What, to some, is a dry, obsolete, useless document was, to David, alive, fruitful, worthy of his total attention, meant for his instruction. By constantly reading the Truth, he was able to easily recognize a lie.

Our defense against false teachings and spiritual errors today is to immerse ourselves in God's Word. Don't even handle the counterfeit stuff; it begets a dangerous temptation. Some will say we live in a different culture and we must move with the times. To them I would say that God does not change. The Creator of all things is the same yesterday, today and forever. His Word, from Genesis through The Revelation, is relevant for us today - necessary to our total spiritual health. In the Bible we find the answers to all the questions that we have about life and living.

Think about God's Word; meditate on it; pray over it. Soak up the Love Letter from your Father, and depend on the Holy Spirit to lead you to God's Truth.

2007-05-14T12:21:00.000-06:00

It was such a nice weekend. Saturday was quiet and uneventful – just the way I like it. Then, in an unplanned moment everything fell in place for all the kids & kidlettes to be at the house Saturday night. The kidlettes were in a good mood and played while all the grownups actually got to eat at the same table and carry on some (semi)-adult conversation. Did I just refer to my daughters and sons-in-law as grownups? Where does the time go!

In case I’ve never said it before Terry & I have super-terrific daughters who married super-terrific young men and have given us six super-terrific grandchildren. (More to come, I’m sure.) Makes Mother’s Day a really special time.

You’d have laughed to see the dining room table. I really wish I’d taken a picture. Since I don’t cook much (ever?), we ordered from Malone’s Fish & Steak. The table was awash with Styrofoam take-out plates. There was hardly room to sneeze with 8 adults juggling plates, salad containers, glasses, butter, salt…..you get the picture. But it was so much fun.

In case I haven’t mentioned this – my girls have some super-terrific in-laws. As much as possible we all celebrate special occasions together. This year Andy’s mom hosted the celebration. It makes for a full house, but there’s some wonderful love and laughter when we get together. We’re blessed by God’s grace to have a strong Christian foundation in all our homes, which accounts for the camaraderie. And over the years, we’ve just come to love each other a lot. I’m very thankful to have all of them in my life.

So it was a nice weekend, a nice Mother’s Day, a nice celebration of family.

A Lamp Unto My Feet

2007-05-12T09:11:00.000-06:00

Our Sunday school lesson tomorrow deals with the importance of God's Word in our lives and to our lives. Several years ago some of us were asked to give a testimony at Thanksgiving service of what we were thankful for. I'm thankful for God's word in printed form.

What if I lived in a time before Christians had access to the Bible? Would it be less important to me? more? I can only say that I love the Scriptures. There's nothing magical about leather, paper and ink, but because His word is alive and active it sometimes literally jumps up off the page. There have been times when it pierced me to the bone with conviction of sin. Other times it has reached up to wrap me in the comfort of its truth.

And it has the power to make me laugh. I smile when I read in Numbers 22:28 And the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?" It doesn't surprise me at all that God can make a donkey talk. But I have to laugh out loud when I read in verse 29 Then Balaam said to the donkey...

The importance of God's written word is found in the very first phrase of the first chapter of the first book - Genesis. "In the beginning, God..." Every word, every phrase, is filled with love. He teaches us, He reproves us, He corrects us, He trains us (2Tim 3:16) for His purposes. As Rick Warren says, "It's not about you." It's about God; it's about His work for His glory.

Jesus says in John 14:26, "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you. If we spend time in His Word He will press it deep within us to be our guide, our light. David said that God's word was a lamp to his feet, a light to his path. (Ps 119:105) And he said in 119:11 that he had hidden God's word in his heart so he wouldn't sin against Him.

God has given us a great gift - His word. It is our instruction book; it holds the keys to our spiritual, emotional, mental and physical well-being. It is God-breathed, infallible truth. And this world needs that truth.

Heavenly Father, thank You so much for Your word. And thank You for Your Word, who became flesh and dwelt among us. Your grace, mercy, forgiveness and love are beyond my comprehension. Press Your word deep within me as a treasure to be used for Your glory and honor. Amen