A Day in the Life...

We Are on Our Way!!!!!

2009-07-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

By the time you read this we will be up in the air on our way to East Asia!!!!! I want to give you 12 things to pray for while we are gone. One for each day!

1. Travel Safety and no delays (we have some tight connections)

2. Protection and strength for the family members left behind

3. Adjustment to new culture and time zone

4. Satan be bound

5. Safety as we prayer walk

6. Camp logistics(remember we are doing a youth camp)

7. No one will be sick

8. Translation issues

9. Money will be sufficient

10. Travel safety

11. No Delays

12. Prepare our hearts to come home

I will be sure to post LOTS of photos when we get back. Again I thank you in advance for all your prayers! You guys mean the world to me! I love each one of you!!!!!

It is Time

2009-07-11T13:23:00.002-04:00

In a little over an hour we will be headed to Atlanta to spend the night for our 6 am flight tomorrow. Pray for safety and our families while we are gone. I will post tomorrow with a list of 12 things to pray for... One per day. Thanks I love you all!!!!!

It is Sooooo Close!!!

2009-07-01T18:13:00.003-04:00

Well we are about 10 days away from leaving for our trip... You know the one to East Asia. I can't believe it is almost here! God is going to do some big things! I am getting excited, scared and sad all at the same time. Excited to be travelling the world with my best friend and soul mate. Scared to go that far away from home, and sad to leave my babies behind.

As one of the characters in the Veggie Tales movie "The Pirates That Don't Do Anything." which we saw today at the Free Family Movie said, "I(God) hasn't brought you this far to not be with you. He has left you pieces of Himself along the way."

We still need @ $800 or $900 to pay off our trip. I know God is going to come through. I am just hanging on for the ride.

I say all this to say, that if the Wootten's pop into your mind over the next 10 days, please pray for all of us. Love you all bunches!!!

Happy Birthday to My Baby Boy!!!!

2009-06-29T20:30:00.002-04:00

Today is my baby boy's birthday. I can't believe that my Jarrett is 4!!!! Jare, Jare, Mommy loves you, and I am so thankful that God gave you to me!!! You are my sweet boy and I love you very much!!!!!

A Disturbing Night!

2009-06-22T21:58:00.003-04:00

It has been a while, but I had to jump on here really quick. Did you watch Jon and Kate tonight? I am so upset!! They are getting a divorce. I understand how badly she treated Jon, but how about fighting for your marriage? You made it through the difficulty of rearing 6 babies. I can only imagine how hard that was, but how about using some of that energy to fight for your marriage?

I feel badly for all of them. BTW, where is their church family? Where is someone from Lifeway, or these other Christian bookstores who sell their books? I can only hope and pray that someone will come into their path and provide some godly counsel.

Let's remember to pray for the Gosslins and their kids.

On Vacation...

2009-06-09T22:02:00.002-04:00

We are enjoying a week of vacation this week. We have been to Atlanta, come home for a trip meeting and tomorrow, are headed out again probably to the beach for a day or so. I will post pictures and detail our trip later. I hope you all are enjoying your summer... Talk to you soon!!!

It Went by So Fast...

2009-06-01T22:38:00.002-04:00

This last week went so fast. I know I promised to post some pictures, but it was crazy. I am going to post about my middle girl Hannah Beth. She had her first ballet recital on Saturday. Ya'll I am not just saying this because she is my daughter, but she was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. Here she is:

I told you! Doesn't she look like a princess? She had the best time and this totally made her feel special. Have you seen the movie "Cheaper By the Dozen" with Steve Martin? IF you haven't you should it is totally funny and a glimpse into our life, but ours is much smaller. Anyway one of the middle kids has the nick name "Fed Ex" because they say he is not like the rest of them so the Fed Ex man must have left you on the doorstep. Hannah Beth is our Fed Ex. she does her own thing and is the only one of our children that could be an only child. The classic middle child. For her to be on that stage with all of us watching and cheering her own was by far the greatest moment of her life! Mom and Dad were proud too. It was the best $3

5 a month we could have spent to see the joy and happiness on her face.

Her is our ballet girl on the big stage!

Hanny, Mommy and Daddy are so proud of you! You are such a joy to us and we love you "Ballet Girl!"

Catching Up

2009-05-24T22:04:00.002-04:00

Boy how time flies!! I can't believe that it has been a while since I updated. Tonight the older 3 are spending the night with a family from church, so Jamie, Chara, Jarrett and I were going to watch the race, but since it is rained out, we are watching Night at the Museum in stead. Great movie and maybe we can see the new one soon. Not sure what we will do tomorrow, but it will be relaxing.

I hope you all have a good relaxing day tomorrow! I will post some new photos this week. Have a good rest of your night.

A Busy Weekend!

2009-05-10T18:57:00.010-04:00

We have had such a busy but good weekend! Friday we went to Darlington to the race. It was my first NASCAR race and it was so much fun. Here are a few pictures...

Darlington Raceway

Me, Kaylee, Jamie and Noah

Me and My Man

The Kids

Saturday we had a car wash and bake sale for our Mission Trip. We did really well. Thanks to everyone who helped out with it!

Sunday was a great Mother's Day! It was a great family day. It rained some but all in all was great. This was over our house after the rain!

I am so glad that God keeps His promises! Whatever He promises, He will do. We can trust Him! Take that with you this week! Trust Him!

2009-05-08T15:00:00.000-04:00

If you haven't seen my facebook update today, then this will be news to you. As you read this we are on our way here:

This will be my first race to see in person and I am so excited!!!! I know it won't be the big boys but I will still be able to see some of my favorite drivers. Jamie, Kaylee, Noah and I and going as well as 4 others. I will take LOTS of pictures and will share next week! I hope you have a great weekend!

PS: If you are in the Williston area, stop by the First Citizens Bank in town tomorrow, we are having a car wash and bake sale and all the proceeds go towards our mission trip!

It's Been a Year?!!!

2009-05-05T03:42:00.005-04:00

Can you believe that today is my "Blogoversary"? It has been 1 year already since creating "A Day in the Life."

God has taught me so much in the last year! He has also allowed me to do some really neat things. I was able to go to San Antonio to the LPL there. I got to hug some of my Siestas as well as meet Amanda Jones and Melissa Fitzpatrick Beth Moore's daughters. I watched God heal a little girl named Harper and asked for prayer for an angel named Emma.

God is using this blog world in mighty ways. I do not think I could have ever imagined that I would be able to get to know people in Tennessee, Texas, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, California, and lots of others in between! People read my blog that I have never met and a lot I have. I just want to use my blog for God's glory.

So, I think in honor of this day, I will make a cake! Know that each of you is invited to share some! This is the great part, for those of us who are trying to lose weight, it doesn't have ANY calories! Have a great day and thanks for dropping by and helping me celebrate my Blogoversary!!! Don't forget today is

To! So eat some Mexican and have a great day!

Turtles, and Birds and Berries Oh My!!!

2009-05-02T15:47:00.001-04:00

This is such a fitting title for our week. We have had an adventure it seems like everyday!!! It started on Monday when I picked up some fresh strawberries at the stand in Aiken. They come from North Augusta and are so good.

My friend Lisa about 7 or 8 years ago refreshed my memory to freezer jam. My kids love it and we try to make some every year. So, on Tuesday part of our school day was spent doing that.

Also on Monday, Jamie was trimming some bushes around the house and found this:

Look really closely and you can see the yellow beak of a baby bird. He found a nest.

Thursday

The kids were playing outside and I heard Chase(our dog) barking like crazy. Kaylee comes running in with this:

I told her be careful because it might be a snapping turtle. Ya'll, she screamed and I told her to not drop it. We put it in a box and eventually took it to the pond by the part and let it go.

It has been an eventful week! I will close with this:

Jarrett sitting on the toilet at Jamie's softball game tonight. Pulls the the toliet lid where it touches his back and says, "Look Mommy, I'm a turtle!" Hysterical right!!! I hope you have a great weekend. Stay turned for the net fun filled episode!

What Do You think?

2009-04-29T07:15:00.002-04:00

I found this this morning. I think I would probably do the same thing. What about you?

A Must Watch!

2009-04-23T09:52:00.002-04:00

I knew they were coming up, but forgot that they were tonight. The Dove Awards, which is Christian music's award show come on tonight at 8:00 pm on the Gospel Music Channel. We haven't had cable in the past several years, but we have it now and I am so excited to get to watch. I promise you won't regret this 2 hour event. IT is very worshipful. So, support Christian music and watch. Clink on Dove Awards above to go to the sight so you can see who is performing!

A Nightmare

2009-04-21T06:57:00.002-04:00

Kaylee woke up a few minutes ago crying and saying she had a bad dream. Listen to this dream. God had kicked Jesus out of heaven and therefore never died on the cross which meant we all went to hell. I think at that moment this she realized what it would be like to not have Jesus. I was in the middle of my quiet time and I just stopped and thanked God that it did not happen that way.

Stop right now and thank God that He DID send Jesus and that he DID die on the cross to take all of our sins on Him. What a true nightmare that would be if redemption had never happened.

Need a Good Laugh?

2009-04-19T17:41:00.002-04:00

Go here for a good laugh! Our Siesta Mama is too funny! Those of us in ministry do not need take our selves too seriously! We could learn a lot from her.

Thanks

2009-04-19T16:32:00.003-04:00

I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who bought a ticket and donated to our spaghetti dinner for our mission trip. We cleared $670! That will help the group with food, cabs and hotels! Thanks again! Now we just need to get our plane tickets payed for! Keep praying!

Easter Pics

2009-04-15T07:16:00.004-04:00

Here are a few pictures from Easter. We are back into the full swing of school...Counting down the days until we are done!!! Enjoy the pictures!

He is Risen...He is Risen Indeed!!!

2009-04-12T07:20:00.002-04:00

This week has been hard. Even though we were on spring break, it was still hard. At least we didn't have the pressure of school too. That being said, I have not focused on the meaning of this week. Here and there yes, but consistently no. Last night it hit as I was doing PowerPoint for church today that it felt like just any other normal Sunday. I am dead wrong in that thinking. God convicted me and said you have to put aside your feelings and think of me and how I am feeling! How true!! I have been so caught up in me that I forgot Him. Jesus who did the most amazing thing!!! In all other religions the god or person is dead! Our Jesus is ALIVE!!!!! As Georgia Jan says, "I .Will. Never. Get. Over. That!!!!!" Can that be said of you today? Are you over Him? Maybe you have never known Him. If so, pray and ask Him to forgive you and tell Him you want to follow Him and you believe what He did on the cross was for you! That's all you have to do.

God I NEVER want to get over you! Thank is not big enough for what You did, but that is the only word I know. How awesome and powerful You are!!! Your Son is Risen and Risen Indeed!!!

A Call to Pray

2009-04-06T11:53:00.001-04:00

I hope you are having a good week! I wanted to share a prayer burden with you. Some of you know that Jamie and I have been called to go on a short term mission trip this summer to East Asia. For security reasons I cannot give the exact location on my blog, but you can email me privately and I will be glad to tell you. With this calling comes many obstacles. One being the kids. Who will watch them for 12 days? How will be pay for it as it will cost about $5000 for both of us.

We do not know these answers but know God does. Would you be in prayer for these BIG things. If you fell God leading you to help financially, please email me and I can give you our address. Thanks again for you prayers! Jamie and I look forward to seeing what God does!!!

Spring Break is Here!!!!!

2009-04-05T23:45:00.003-04:00

I must say that this week could not come fast enough!!! I am looking forward to having the week off of school. Don't get me wrong, we still have a busy week, with holy week services everyday at noon, and the Maundy Thursday service and then getting ready for Easter. The thing is that I won't have the extra pressure of school too. I am looking forward to getting up a little later and just relaxing some this week. I have a few projects I HAVE to get done, but I just wish I was as fortunate as my friend Lisa who gets to have the week off without her kids!!! Wouldn't that be nice (i will have that soon enough I guess. Read more about that tomorrow.) If you aren't off this week , I am sorry. But then again you have already have your break haven't you!!!!

A Day to Celebrate!!!!!

2009-03-31T09:32:00.003-04:00

March 31, 2009...

12 years ago on Easter Sunday, Jamie and I got engaged(March 30).

Jarrett has been trying to earn these for months.

The stipulation was he had to poop in the potty not in his pull up or underwear. Last night was his last night. So that means today....he is officially potty trained!!!! (he still will wear a pull up at night for a while.) It has been a long road, but it is all worth it today!

It Was a Tie.

2009-03-27T09:22:00.005-04:00

Kaylee and Noah had another game last night. It was back and forth, 2 outs and no one on base, and the score was 15 to 14. In coaches pitch there are only 9 batters so the last one runs until they touch home plate. Look who scored the tying run...

Ya'll I didn't think she was going to make it around the bases. I got so excited that I forgot to take a picture when she came to home plate. You can get the idea though. They ended the game with a tie 15-15. I have never heard of that in baseball, but it is just coaches pitch. I am so proud of Kaylee and Noah! Noah did well also and got a couple of hits and some RBI's. We are loving baseball season!!! Have a happy Friday everyone!

My Boochee

2009-03-24T20:25:00.002-04:00

Chara turned 5 in February and I haven't had a chance to blog about it yet. So Booch(the nickname Jamie gave her. I don't know why but Boochee she is.) Momma loves you and wants you to know that our family would not be a full if you weren't in it. God knew what we needed when He gave us you. I love you!!! My little Ladybug!!!!

We Thought You Should Know...#3

2009-03-21T13:51:00.002-04:00

The Life of a Ministers Wife - part 3 from stephen proctor on Vimeo.

We Thought You Should Know...#2

2009-03-20T23:05:00.000-04:00

The Life of a Ministers Wife - part 2 from stephen proctor on Vimeo.

We Thought You Should Know....#1

2009-03-19T12:33:00.001-04:00

The Life of a Ministers Wife - part 1 from stephen proctor on Vimeo.

LPL with 1200 Ministers Wives From Around the Country

2009-03-18T11:45:00.005-04:00

All I can say is WOW!!! 1200 Minister's Wives, Beth Moore and Travis Cottrell in Nashville, TN at Two Rivers Baptist Church. I went this past weekend with my friend from high school Cindy. We recently met up again on Facebook and realized both our husbands are pastors. She has a sister that lives in the Nashville area so it worked out great!

Here is a picture of Cindy and I...

God moved in such a way that I was left speechless. Beth was, well Beth, and gave us a word from God that is still speaking to me. I was able to find the joy of my salvation again and a freshness in my calling. We all need that every now and again. We also had a time of prayer for Cindy Lee Winters who is the wife Fred Winters who was shot a week ago in Illinois. Beth had some boxing gloves that she used in her teaching and we were able to sign those and send them to Cindy Lee as a reminder that we are all fighting for her and for her not to give up. What a testimony she has. Cindy Lee is truly fighting the good fight!

Later Living Proof is going to be making the conference available for digital download. All I can say is find a way to get those ministry wives in your life a copy.

Beth had several ministry wives to write in on her blog. The topic was "So you are going to speak to a bunch of ministers wives, I think you should know that..." Before every session the comments scrolled on the screen. Over the next several days, I will have these for you to read. So many of these are exactly where I am. This will give you some insight into my life as a pastor's wife, and also help you to see where those in your life are coming from and have to deal with.

Today, I am going to post the photo video from the weekend. We were not allowed to take photos during the conference. Enjoy and let the words of the song penetrate your heart today.

LPL Minsters' Wives Nashville TN from Rich Kalonick on Vimeo.

Great news!!!!!

2009-03-17T10:23:00.002-04:00

I had a great time on my trip and will post a few of the pics I took and describe the weekend tomorrow. This post is for God and the HUGE hand clap He deserves. This morning Ken who you have been praying for prayed to receive Christ!!!!!! When I found out I was in tears! I am so excited and my heart is so full. We have been praying for this for a LONG time.

There really is no change in his physical status and it is just a matter of time, but spiritually, he is healed!!! Praise God to whom ALL blessings flow!!!!!!

Continue to lift up Rhonda, Kenny and Mattie as the road is still hard, but the load is a little lighter because we know where Ken will spend eternity!

God You are so good! I praise Your mighty Name. Thank You that You do answer prayers!!!!!

Well, I'm Off...

2009-03-12T14:12:00.002-04:00

By now I am on my way to see this gal and this guy in Nashville for the LPL Minister Wives conference. It is a great time to be with a group of ladies that are in actually the same boat as you. This year I am going with a gal I hooked up with on Facebook. She and I were good friends in high school and her husband is a pastor. It will be great fun revisiting the past and building our relationship now for the future. Pray for safe travel and that God will truly speak to me. I am ready to hear a fresh word from Him. Hopefully I will get to see some of you Siestas! I will post pics when I get back! Have a great weekend!

Ken Update

2009-03-12T07:22:00.002-04:00

Ken did not have a mini stroke but a massive one on the left side of the brain that has affected his speech. He is alert and knows who you are, but cannot talk or move his right side. Please continue to pray for Rhonda, Kenny and Mattie as they take care of Ken. He still remains in ICU as the wait. Thanks in advance.

Pray for Ken

2009-03-09T22:36:00.003-04:00

I wanted to hop on here really quickly tonight before bed and ask you to pray for Ken. He is the husband to one of my really good friends Rhonda. You might recall her from this time last month when her mother unexpectedly passed away. Ken has cancer and it is pretty much terminal. He is taking treatments and the tumor is shrinking but today he has has a mini stroke. He is in ICU for monitoring and they are going to do more tests tomorrow. Please pray for peace and healing, both physical and spiritual. Ken's biggest problem isn't the cancer, it is that he doesn't have a relationship with Jesus. Pray that as Jamie gets to go and visit Ken that he will realize his need for a savior. Pray for strength for Rhonda, Kenny(son) and Mattie(daughter). I will keep you posted. Thanks in advance

A Movie to NOT See

2009-03-07T10:16:00.003-05:00

There is a movie that opened yesterday that in my opinion, Christians can not go see. This movie The Watchmen masquerades as a superhero movie with action much like the Dark Knight, but it is filled with pornographic scenes and other sexually offensive scenes. Focus on the Family's Plugged In Movie Review says it all here. It lays out every disgusting detail. It is too graphic for me to place on my blog so if you would like to read it go here. I am going to worn you though even the explanations are very graphic.

This movie is rated R so that should clue you in right there. I know what you are thinking, everyone has different judgements and convictions about movies. I totally agree, but I also think that if something is this sexually graphic we all need to think about whether or not it would be pleasing to God for us to go see this. Those images will be in our mind forever. I went to the movie's website last night and started watching the trailer for the movie. In the first few minutes of the trailer there was an unkind reference to God, and I turned it off.

I will get off of my soap box for now, but please think twice before supporting this movie. I think we as Christians should let Hollywood know that we WILL not stand for these kinds of films. The best way to do that is to not support them with our time or our money.

In the Quiet

2009-03-05T10:46:00.002-05:00

As I sit here in the quiet while my kids are at "recess", I am just reflecting on how great our God is. He has given me so much... A great husband, great kids and a great church family. He is truly awesome. Last night in choir as we were rehearing the special we are going to sing, it hit me. There is nothing I can do to repay Him for what He has done. There is no amount of money or things that can cover that debt I owe Him. All He asks for is my life. Think about that today. All He wants from us is us! Maybe I should get still before Him more often.
Have a great day in Jesus :)

The Best Day Ever...

2009-02-28T16:50:00.004-05:00

Today was a rare treat for us. The kids' class from church went on an outing to a place called Monkey Business which meant that Jamie and I had most of the day to ourselves!!!!! It has been wonderful. As you can imagine we do not have that very often.

Thanks to Lisa and the crew for taking the kids and allowing us to have an all day date!!!!

To my man:

I love you very much! Thank you for loving me just as I am.

This song from the nineties sums it all up

A Little Concrete

2009-02-24T20:54:00.002-05:00

Today was an exciting day. The sidewalk was poured from the EYB to the church. It was really neat to see the concrete coming from the truck. The kids really enjoyed it. Sometimes real life is more educating than what you can learn in a book. I will try to post some photos later.

Tonight some of the guys from church went to visit the 9 people that made decisions for Christ at the banquet on Friday. You can read more about the banquet here.

I hope you have a great rest of your week!

2009-02-18T23:11:00.000-05:00

This week has been strange. It has been a week where Satan has been at work. He is trying to get right in the middle of Jamie and me. There has been a lot going on and it is starting to take its toll. Friday night is the Wild Game Banquet at our church. Dr. Paige Patterson is coming in to speak and it is going to be a great time, but the prep work is totally stressing out my husband. I will be glad when Sat. comes. If you are in the area and would like more info on the banquet, you can go here.

Please pray that things come together and that we make it through the rest of this week!

2009-02-14T14:46:00.004-05:00

Just remember that Jesus is the best valentine you could ever have! He always gives just the right gift! Have a great day!!!

I love you all ;)

Pray for the Landis Family

2009-02-10T09:09:00.002-05:00

If you read my earlier post you know about the situation with Ms. Gloria. We got the call @ 2am that she had passed away. Please keep, Tommy, Rhonda, Pam, Mattie, Kenny and Tucker in your prayers. This is going to be a tough road, but with God's help we will all get through this. Thanking you in advance!

Glory....

2009-02-09T11:38:00.002-05:00

This weekend has been such a whirlwind. Friday night as I was baking Noah's birthday cake, when we got a call that saddened our family. The lady that kept Jarrett last year when I was teaching and mother to my really good friend had an asthma attack we thought and had lost consciousness and wasn't breathing. We call her Glory(Jarrett couldn't say her name Gloria.)

Things went from bad to worse on Noah's birthday Sat. Jamie was gone in the morning to the hospital, because she had very little brain activity. We decided to have Noah's party but cut it short. Gloria's granddaughter who is 14 had spent the night with us and wanted to go to the hospital. We got home very late on Sat. night.

This is such a shock to everyone. Yesterday we canceled the pm service and the am service was as Jamie said, "The saddest most satisfying service I have ever been to." We went back to the hospital right after church and stayed until 9pm. They moved her out of ICU into a private room so the family could be there 24hours a day.

This has just about torn up our church not to mention my husband and our family. Tommy and Gloria are like family to us. Please pray for the Landis family, Tommy(dad) Rhonda (the oldest and mom to Kenny 20 and Mattie 14) Pam(the youngest and mom to 2 year old Tucker.), and Glory(Gloria) we are praying for a miracle but trusting God because He knows what is best.

Thanks in advance. I will keep you posted.

Gearing Up

2009-02-05T17:22:00.004-05:00

This week has been a long one but we are getting ready to party this weekend! Saturday is my first born son's 8th birthday!! I can't believe it! This year have adopted the every other year birthday party policy to help with the cost involved in parties. With 5 and 2 ofthem in Feb. it helps out a lot!!! So far it is working out pretty well. They are not disappointed and it helps us out greatly. This year Noah and Kaylee will have one and next year the other 3 will. We did it so that their party would fall on the even # years. Which works out well for Chara since she only has a true birthday every 4 years (Feb. 29.)

So tomorrow we will construct "The Swamp" in our front yard. I know imagine that Noah wants a Florida football party. On Sat. we will have a yard full of little boys being boys. I can't wait! I will post pic. of the big event.

In the meantime, pray that the stomach ailment that seems to be slowly going around our house stops and doesn't infect any more of us!

Until then, have a great night!

Weekend Randomness

2009-02-01T16:40:00.002-05:00

Will this weekend has been a little bit of everything. Friday night Jamie and some of the guys from church went to the FBC Woodstock Men's conference. We went to Columbia and ate dinner with my Mom and sister and picked up a doughnut order from Krispy Kreme. Saturday went cleaned up a bit and headed to Target. Where we picked up Rock Band for PS2. We had received some gift cards for Christmas and were going to get a Wii, but they were out and we realized that we could get more for our money with a PS2 and wait until next year when the Wii 2 comes out.

Last night Jamie and I were up until midnight playing it. Granted a lot of the songs are not all that great, but it is fun, and it is something that several of us can do together.

In a few minutes we will be going to church to get ready for the Super Bowl party. It is always fun. We have a chili cook off and great fellowship. Not sure if we are going to watch half time or not, even though it is The Boss. I hope the rest of your weekend is great!

Have You Ever?

2009-01-27T19:27:00.002-05:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you are not sure what you are doing? Today was one of those days for me. I am not sure exactly what God is in the process of doing with our schooling. This year has been very tough with the type of schooling we are doing. I am just not sure what next year will hold. We are praying through some things in that area. But it seems like every day is a struggle just top make it through.

I think my kids are going through phases and I am not sure what to do. The older 2 especially. Things are very busy at the church in the new building and Jamie is distracted with that, and I am trying to hold everything together. It has been one of those days. I am thankful that God has the answer and it is Him. I went for a walk today and just cried out to Him. I think Kim says it best here.

We Can Learn A Lot From "W"

2009-01-22T18:48:00.004-05:00

If you are like me on Tuesday you watched as our country sworn in our new President. Yes, I saw the pomp and circumstance, the enormous crowds, the hundreds of news people, and everything in between. The thing that I witnessed that touched me the most was the way our outgoing President conducted himself.

The way George Bush has handled himself was nothing less than top notch! The Bush's have received the Obama's with open arms and have been nothing less than cooperative during the transition. It brought me to tears to see how genuinely President Bush smiled and even the

news people commented on how he handled himself.

Whatever you think of George Bush and his politics, one thing is certain, a finer man you will never find. We as Christians can be proud to know that he upheld his office with honor. He made Christ look good, especially at the end.

We all can and should learn a lesson of how to handle people that we do not agree with. The 43rd and the 44th Presidents have VERY different views but found a way to have a mutual respect for each other. This is the very thing Christ did. Even though He did not agree with people He still loved them.

May we learn to respect, pray and learn to love our new President. Not because of the views he holds or the things he votes for or against, but because as Christians this is what we are called to do. "Love the sinner, not the sin."

Lord, I pray for the Obama family. May I learn to love and respect them as humans beings. If they do not know You in a personal way, bring those in their path that will share Christ with them. If they do, may they lead this country in a way that pleases You. Thank you God for the Bush's. May they continue to follow You. Bless them greatly for the way they have conducted themselves the last 8 years. In Jesus' name. Amen

It Did Snow...Sort Of!!!

2009-01-20T19:02:00.003-05:00

God does answer prayers, even those of little ones. We had snow showers all day, but unfortunately it was a few degrees too warm for anything to stick. See, just to prove that it did here is a photo I took with my phone, because of course the battery was dead on the camera and not charged!My friends in the Raleigh area were way more blessed with snow today than we were. Makes me wish I were there! I hope you all had a great day! Love you all!

Pray for Harper

2009-01-19T20:40:00.002-05:00

As some of you guys know there is a fellow Siesta blogger Kelly whose newborn daughter is very ill. Click on the "Praying for Harper" link on the sidebar to find out more of their story. Please join me as we pray for this sweet little baby!

Let it Snow Pleeese!!!

2009-01-18T17:35:00.002-05:00

One thing about living in the south, you have to beg to get snow. Oh how I wish that when we woke up this morning it was just a few degrees cooler. It has rained all day and had it been colder, we would have had some snow. Oh well, it wasn't meant to be this time, but who knows maybe we will have some before spring.

Idol Returns!

2009-01-13T08:34:00.005-05:00

Starts again tonight!!!! I can't wait! I must say I am not sure about how this new judge is going to work out. It will be strange to have someone there every week. But I will go into it with an open mind. Have a great day!

2009-01-12T08:31:00.006-05:00

This made my son's day!!! Thanks for being the great inspiration you are to my Noah! Now we just have to get him to a game! Anyone with tickets???? GO GATORS!!!

The Day That Was

2009-01-09T10:09:00.002-05:00

Well I must admit the game wasn't as exciting as I thought, but Tim Tebow rose to the occasion. Needless to say, my son was beside himself. This morning we all have the late night hangover because we went to bed @1:00am, but hey if this guy gave it all he did, why shouldn't we! Way to go Gators. Tim, please stay one more year!!!

Way to Go GATORS!!!

2009-01-08T23:55:00.002-05:00

Yes, I know it is late but I had to jump on here really quick and say way to go GATORS!!!!! My son (and us too now) LOVE YOU!!!!! Congrats!!!!

It Came

2009-01-07T15:23:00.002-05:00

My Bible came home today. It feels good for it to be back. I looked at the receipt for the shipping. It was $21.88!!!!! It only came from Myrtle Beach(@3 hrs away.) Jamie said that we could have driven there for that! Oh well, God's Words are worth it right! Got to go work on music TTYL!!!

2009-01-05T06:32:00.004-05:00

****Update**** I called the hotel and they do have my Bible. They will be sending it to me. Hopefully it won't be as much as they say $20. Please pray that that Bible will weigh less than I think. $20 ouch!!! At least they had it!
You know this is not a very good way to start your day much less the new start I was trying to have this morning.

I did some exercise and then was going to do my quiet time when I discovered that my favorite Bible was not here. I looked everywhere. I took it with us on vacation and it seems like I left it at the hotel. This is my NIV study Bible that my husband gave me on our first Christmas. Not to mention I also left my Believing God workbook. I am going to call the hotel in a few hours but I am just sick. Now I know a little bit of how the woman in the parable of the lost coin felt. Please pray that the hotel has my Bible. I know that God can handle this, I just hope that I can.

I hope your Monday starts of better than mine!

Back to the Grind

2009-01-04T23:14:00.002-05:00

Well here it is 11:15 pm on Sunday night and I am dreading getting back in the swing of things. I hope to be more diligent in blogging this new year. I really love being able to keep this journal of sorts going. I truly think God is going to be up to some great things this year. As Jamie said tonight in his sermon, " We need to trust God." That is what I am gong to be doing more of this year. I want to trust God because He can do "immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine." Have a great first day back tomorrow! Love you all!

Just Checking in

2008-12-30T20:32:00.002-05:00

Well we are on day 4 of 6 at the beach. We are having a good time just being together. I just wanted to let you know that I am alive and will get things cranked up next week. God has some things for me to do this next year and I can't wait to share them with you. Well, the fam is waiting for me to come play dominos. I will talk to you later with pics from the trip. Have a Happy New Year! Love you all!

My Christmas Surprise

2008-12-25T14:12:00.005-05:00

Merry Christmas to you all!!! I could not help but jump on here really quick and post about my Christmas surprise. My wonderful husband of 11 years got me what I have wanted for as long as I can remember. This!

Thank you my man! The tears this morning only reflect the fact that you "Got me!" The longer we are together the more and more I love you!

Merry Christmas! I Love You!!!!!!!!

I Wish You a Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!

2008-12-23T13:33:00.003-05:00

I know, I know, I know!!! It has been a while. The last few weeks like most of you have been CRAZY. Things are finally beginning to slow down just in time for Christmas. I have been busy with Christmas musicals, parties and everything else. I am looking forward over the next few days to reflect about the real meaning of this season. Tomorrow we will have go to a candlelight Christmas Eve service, then Christmas day spend time with family. Friday we will pack and on Saturday we will go to the beach for a few days. Yes, God finally provided that much needed vacation. God has been SO good to us this year. He provided money and a way for us to go out of town for a few days.

Just remember to make time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. That God sent His one and only son to earth to save us all. From our family to yours, The Woottens wish you a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
I will try to check in while we are gone to the beach. But if not, See you in the new year!!!
Love,

My Ornaments

2008-12-15T08:00:00.002-05:00

Before I start, I just want to say thank you to Patty for coordinating the Siesta Ornament Exchange. It has been a blast to get to know my Siesta Lisa. She has been a great encourager and I have enjoyed getting to know her.

Here is what she sent me:

That sweet gal sent all my children an ornament as well as my husband. Thanks again Lisa!!! I hope you all have a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!

I Promise

2008-12-09T23:13:00.002-05:00

I know I said that yesterday I would post some pics, but Chara has had an asthma flair up so she has been home this week. Hopefully she will go to preschool tomorrow and our life can get back to normal, whatever that is! Anyway, I didn't want you to think that I lied and didn't get those photos up, I just haven't had time. I hope your week is going well!!! Love you All!

Just Checking in

2008-12-07T21:37:00.002-05:00

Today was a great start to the Christmas season. We sang a few Christmas hymns in church, and Jamie will actually let me play Christmas music in the house. All of our decorations are up at the house, and I must say they look nice.

The Williston Christmas parade was today. We had a great time! Our float even won first place. I will post some pics tomorrow.

I couldn't end this post without shouting: It is Official!!! Gators vs Sooners for the National Championship. Now the only questions is will Tim Tebow win the Heisman again????

A New Favorite!

2008-12-06T21:17:00.002-05:00

Since Noah has begun his love of Tim Tebow, I must say that I find myself turning into somewhat of a Gator fan myself. We spent the afternoon watching the SEC championship game. What a game!!! Hey, at least they are winning!!

All I have to say is GOOOO GATORS!

Is She 9 Already????

2008-12-01T20:40:00.003-05:00

I hope you have all had a great weekend and had a great time with friends and family as well as did some great shopping!!!! The best thing that happened over the weekend was that my Kaylee girl had a birthday. Yesterday she turned 9. I cannot believe that it has been 9 years since she was born. The old cliche is true," They DO grow up too fast."

My Kaylee girl, you are turning into a great young lady. Hold close to Jesus. Trust Him always and know that you can always trust me and your Dad. We love you very much and are so proud of you!!! Our family would not be the sane without you! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

FYI

2008-11-25T13:41:00.003-05:00

If any of you are into NASCAR and are a Jeff Gordon fan, a friend and I are selling some signs that can be illuminated. We have one listed right now on Ebay. Click here to see it. If you are interested or want more info, email me. Have a great day.

A Great Day!

2008-11-24T20:10:00.002-05:00

I hope you all had a great weekend and are gearing up for the BIG weekend! We had such a great day at church on Sunday. It was homecoming and the first time for us eating in the new building. I wouldn't know exactly how the eating went because one of my children woke up throwing up on Sunday morning. I did the music and fixed us a plate and ate at home with them. There were over 100 people and everyone really enjoyed themselves. Check out this video we showed. Jamie beat me to the punch so it is on his blog. It is a little long, but well worth your time. Have a great rest of your day!

A Thanksgiving Classic

2008-11-20T17:27:00.001-05:00

We have been playing Christmas music in our house and it is about to drive my husband CRAZY!!! He refuses to listen to it before Thanksgiving. This post is just show that I do love all things Thanksgiving. Wanted to post Adam Sandler's Thanksgiving song, but too many bad words. Cliff and Theo will just have to do! BTW, I do just like Christmas more!

Just Checking In

2008-11-18T11:47:00.003-05:00

I know all 2 of my faithful blog readers have been wondering where I have been. Well, just busy I guess. I am ready for the short week next week and of course all the shopping!!! Over the weekend I did get a bladder infection Yeah!!! For any of you who have had one, you know the agony and needless to say, I did not feel much like doing anything, but I persevered and ended up at the "Doc in the Box" after church on Sun. Thank the Lord I am on the way to recovery. Just a side note, if you have a Publix in your area, the offer FREE generic prescriptions on certain antibiotics. MY doctor graciously prescribed me one of them!!!

Anyway, Friday Jamie and I were supposed to go to the high school playoff game, but it got rained out so we went on a semi-date night. I say semi because we went computer shopping for Jamie a new laptop. I would post a great pic of the new equipment, but our camera died. The battery compartment cover crumbled. It is 5 years old and we cannot complain, but I do not know what I am going to do without a camera! You can click here to see Jamie's post on it.

Just to close, I am participating in the Siesta Ornament exchange(if you want to know what that is click the banner on the sidebar.) I have been hooked up with a great gal from California. She is a great gal, and I have enjoyed getting to know her via email and blog. She sent me an e-card today that had the verse "Be still and know that I am God." That hit me like a ton of bricks. Especially when you wake up to discover red crayon all over the clothes in the dryer, a few days ago your camera breaks and oh yeah, Christmas is coming and how are we going to get gifts? I could go on and on, but God spoke in His still small voice to me saying, it's okay, I will take care of it!! I am so glad that God gives us those little reminders that He is God and as I heard on the radio the other day, that, "God has the ultimate bailout package. All the resources are His." Thanks for checking in, I will try to do better updating this week! Have a great day!

It's Better to Give...

2008-11-12T03:09:00.003-05:00

I am so proud of my kids. Monday when I came home from taking HB to dance, Kaylee was outside in the dark with the rake. Before you call DSS, Jamie was out in the new building where this week they are putting in the electrical work. She proceeded to tell me that she and her brother were raking up the church yard. I told her, "You know you aren't going to get anything for doing that right?" To that she replied,"I know." (Keep in mind that most of the time this is the child who is always looking out for herself first.) She then said, "Big people do things for the church why can't us kids." To that I replied, "Well carry on then." They finished gathering all the leaves on Tuesday so I had to snap some photos.
We have so much to learn from our children. How many times have I only done something because of what it was going to get me in return. We have been trying so hard to work on the selfish attitude with Kaylee, and maybe just maybe we have had a turning point. Will she always do it, no, but it is a gigantic step in the right direction. We could all learn a lesson from the leaves this fall. Do you know someone who needs their yard raked? Why not as a family get out there and rake their yard. What an example of serving others. I promise it will speak volumes!!!!

Lessons Learned

2008-11-11T09:25:00.002-05:00

God showed me something profound in my quiet time this morning. I try to read a Proverb a day and I felt like I should read something else as well and God led me to the book of Philemon. God showed me a little truth in verses 4 and 5.
Listen to this, "I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints."

That phrase,"I hear about your faith" struck me this morning. Can others say that about me, that they hear about my faith? As I have now launched into Facebook and am making contact with people from high school and college can they say that they have heard about my faith. Am I making every effort to use my blog and Facebook to encourage and share my faith with those who choose to read it?

We as Christians are called to bring Jesus wherever we go even onto our blogs, Facebook, My Space, Youtube or wherever we go in cyberspace and the real world. Can you honestly say today that people hear about your faith? For me it is sometimes but I want my answer to be honestly be yes!! Will you take Him WHEREVER you go? Let's hold each other accountable.

This is my prayer today. "I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ. Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brothers(and sisters), have refreshed the heart of THIS SAINT." (Philemon 6-7 emphasis mine)

Frustrated with Facebook

2008-11-09T16:44:00.002-05:00

Friday night while Jamie was at the Williston-Elko game, I decided that I wanted to try Facebook that everyone is raving about. Well, I am not all that thrilled. Yes it is a neat way to catch up with everyone. One of my college roommates said she has been looking for me on there and was glad that I finally got on there. Anyway, I was trying to make a photo album of the kids and every time I try to add photos to the album, it closes the entire browser. I have doe this several times and it is just so frustrating. I want to be able to have photos up there, but if it keeps this up, I will have to give up on Facebook. If anyone has any suggestions, please let me know! I hope you all had a great day!
Until then, I will remain frustrated with Facebook.

God Stop Friday

2008-11-07T10:24:00.002-05:00

It's Friday again, and already November. I can't believe it. I love fall. The trees seem to be more vivid this year, or maybe it is just me taking time to notice. Thanks to Patty for helping us to take time out to remember what God has taught us this week.

God has shown me this week that He is in total control. This was the week to get things together for the new budget year at church. I was so looking forward to getting a raise. We got one but are putting the entire amount into retirement. I am thankful that we can do that because as of now we have nothing. The money has just never been there. Anyway, I always look forward to a little breathing room in the budget, but it will not come this year. We will just continue to spend every cent every month but that is okay. Even if we end up with $5 left over we at least had something.

God is just showing me that I need to be content and allow Him to work it out. If I do my part God will make up the difference. After all, He is the ultimate banker. Thank you God for continued provision for my family. Help me to make wise decisions financially. I 'm Believing You!

The Day After

2008-11-05T15:03:00.002-05:00

Well it is over and we have a new president. I must admit that I have had so not so good feelings about him. After I went to LPM blog today, I must say that I have my head screwed on right now. Yesterday I just added a link to the blog but today it was so good that I just pasted it on mine. I honestly could not say it any better. Please as Beth Moore states in the last part of her post. Pray for the Obamas. Pray for their salvation and that God will give him wisdom as he leads our country. I hope you I am not the only one who gets a tail kicking after reading this.

"To my beloved Sisters who I esteem so highly and consistently find to be part of the solution to our problems in the Church rather than the cause,Please join me in praying for our President-elect Barack Obama, his wife Michelle, and his precious daughters, Sasha and Malia. Go with me before the Throne of our sovereign God and ask Him to grant wisdom from above to President-elect Obama and the indwelling presence and power of Jesus Christ.

In the words of the Apostle Paul, "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior..."

Please also join me in the active and deliberate pursuit of unity and purity in the Body of Christ at this historical time in our country. I implore you in Jesus' Name to have zero tolerance for prejudice whether it is regarding party-affiliation, color (whether you are Black, White, or Brown), economics or the like. Disagreement is not sin. Prejudice is. Satan has plotted events and planted attitudes that, should he be successful, will result in havoc. We must not stand for his schemes or cooperate in a single way. We would severely displease God and invite untold chastisement upon Christ's Church in our nation. Speak clearly to your children and graciously but emphatically draw a line in your work places and social circles regarding your stand against prejudice of any kind."Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, 'Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.'" (Matthew 12:25) A united house stands. A divided house falls. The devil has much to gain. But he also has much to lose.We are the Body of Jesus Christ and we have an opportunity to show His character. This is our watch. We stand for what is right not from our feet but from our knees.I humble myself before you and make these pleas under such bold direction of God that I could not resist it nor disobey it. He made it a fire in my bones.I love and esteem you so much. Shoulder to shoulder,

Dear Siestas. Let's leave not one inch for the enemy to come between us."Then will I purify the lips of the peoples, that all of them may call on the name of the Lord and serve Him shoulder to shoulder." Zephaniah 3:9" Beth Moore on the LPM blog Wednesday, Nov. 5 2008.

History Will be Made

2008-11-04T11:58:00.002-05:00

Today, history will be made. Even if we don't agree with who is running or what they stand for, it is our duty as Americans to go vote. Even if we have to grin and bear it, we still must do it. So, if you haven't voted today, go do it. Take your kids with you as we did. Help them understand the privilege it is, and that one day they will have the opportunity. For some today isn't a great day but I think Beth Moore says it best on her blog today. Go check it out. I cannot say it any better.

What a Week!!!!

2008-11-03T12:29:00.003-05:00

Sorry I haven't been around a lot lately, but last week was our Fall Festival, and soccer and our last co-ed softball game. Needless to say something had to give and blogging was it. What have I missed? Anything big? I am posting a few pictures of the kids in their costumes and I will post more about my week later. I hope your first week of Nov. goes well. Sorry to all you Tennessee fans, I have a feeling Mississippi State will not be far behind you!

Tim Tebow and Indiana Jones of course

A cowgirl, Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz & Miley Cyrus

Sheer Joy

2008-10-26T17:25:00.005-04:00

Friday night we went out for Family Night. It has been a while so we were all ready. We went to a local town that has a new Book a Million. We sat and the kids [played with the Thomas the Train set, read some books and we just hung out. It was GREAT!!! Somewhere they found a Jack in the Box. And I guess that Jarrett has never seen one before. We had so much fun watching him play with it. The great hing about this video is that this was about his 10th time to do this and this was still exciting and new. (I took this with my cell phone so the quality isn't great.)

How like Jarrett we are(or we should be) when we see God do something great in our life. At first it seems scary, but then we laugh and enjoy then moment. We had a moment like that at church today. Jamie's laptop has been dying a slow and painful death. Over the last year or so, he has had it repaired several times. This past week the screen went out and he lugged in the desktop monitor to it so he could work. The treasurer stood up today and asked the church to vote to buy Jamie a new one. And they said yes. Only Jamie and I had talked about him just getting a new one. Know one else but God even knew we had that conversion. This was a scary moment at first when we did not know what he was going to say and then it turned to shear joy.

Thank you God that You alone supply our needs. Help us to be faithful to thank you and to enjoy the moments when we see you! Help remind me that serving you should never get old. Everyday is a new day and a new adventure with You. You are mighty to save and will move the mountains for us! Thank you Jesus for your provision!

God Stop Friday

2008-10-24T13:17:00.003-04:00

It'd Friday and you know what that means! Time for God Stop hosted by a great gal Patty.
This week has had it's ups and downs I am not going to lie. Most of all, I have seen me pour my heart out in prayer over some things and seen Him answer. Some in ways I am thrilled with and some that I am not, but that's okay at least He is letting me know that He is listening when I talk to Him. God is so very interested in every area of our life and I think it thrills Him when we bring big and small requests to Him.

I will end this God stop with this photo. Look closely, what do you see? To some a shadow, to others a building and to others you see the cross on the side of the new building that God is going to use in great ways! In order to put this building up, we had to move a power pole over where it is directly behind our house. Every afternoon this is what happens to the side of the building. It will be a constant reminder to us that God is totally in control of that building, our church and our life.

Have a GREAT weekend and be on the lookout for God. I bet it won't take you long to find Him!!!!

Poor Indy

2008-10-23T17:23:00.003-04:00

Well Indy(Indiana Jones aka Jarrett) has had a casualty. His NaNa...aka Ms. Donne who is a lady from our church whose family has adopted us. She treats my kids like they are her grandchildren. Since Jamie's parents are dead, this is the kids other set of grandparents... back to the story... She took him with her on a field trip today with her other granddaughters school and there was a petting zoo. Jarrett was minding his own business when the ferocious miniature horse bit him on the fingers(they are the ones that are dangling in the photo.) NaNa said that he set in her lap for a long time and then he was fine. If you guys don't know, Jarrett LOVES Indiana Jones, and Ms. Donne saw this wooden gun in the gift shop and bought it for Jarrett. Ever since he came home, he has not let that gun out of his sight. AS we speak, he is sitting on the couch watching The Temple of Doom holding that gun. All in all I think Indy had a good day in spite of his injury what do you think?!

Our Little Soccer Star

2008-10-21T19:52:00.003-04:00

Mia Hamm better watch out because our Kaylee Jane is on the way! Kaylee has wanted to play soccer FOREVER and tonight her dreams came true. She played in her first ever game, and I must say that she did an AWESOME job. She almost scored a goal. It does help that at 8 almost 9 she is the oldest on her team, but hey, you can't help it if you are just that good (LOL) :)

Here are a few pics and I mean a few. Our camera is on its last leg so especially at night, this is as good as it gets! Enjoy my little soccer star! Don't stop until you reach your goal!!!! I love you!

This Says It All

2008-10-19T17:37:00.001-04:00

This video shows everything that happened this week. What a great testimony in song. Please take time to watch it, I promise, you won't be disappointed!

We Have Walls!!!

2008-10-15T08:43:00.001-04:00

The Construction Workers

2008-10-14T07:08:00.003-04:00

The first day of construction was GREAT!!! They got a lot done as you can see from the pictures, but the only problem was those construction workers! I'm not sure how they got so much done!!!

More updates later!

Weekend in Review

2008-10-13T06:52:00.002-04:00

I hope you all had a great weekend! It was kind of a relaxing one around here. Friday night Jamie took Chara to the high school football game. They each have had a turn and this was here turn. She had a good time. Saturday, Jamie played in a golf tournament to benefit the building fund. After breakfast, I decided to take get the kids out and we went a did a little shopping. We picked up a few mums to plant in my planters on the front porch, went looking for a pattern to make Chara's costume for the Fall Festival which I didn't get because it cost $16!!!! When did patterns get so expensive??? It is almost cheaper to buy your clothes and costumes and such than it is to make them. While HB is at ballet, I am going to look for the costume and if I can't find one reasonable, I will be forced to make it. She wants to be Dorothy, and already has the shoes, we just need the dress. Hobby Lobby does have their patterns on sale for $1.99 this week so that will help!

WE had a good day at church yesterday! Not very many people there, but I think God was moving. Last night was a sweet time! Jamie was preaching on what makes a great church. We sang songs like "The Family of God and Bind us Together" We spent some time just walking around and hugging necks. It was great! We need to spend time as the body loving on one another like that.

Today begins the biggest thing in our church since we have been here. They are even as I speak getting the equipment in place to begin putting our building up! As the week goes along, I will post pictures, but needless to say, my man cannot stand himself. This is one of the benefits to being the pastor's wife, I get to see him with ALL his emotions. Ya'll he is beside himself!!! You know how it feel when you finally get to see your vision coming together; it is sure bliss with God. Keep that in your prayers this week, and I will keep you updated! Have a great Monday!

God Stop Friday

2008-10-10T15:12:00.004-04:00

Thank goodness it's Friday!!!!! Thanks to Patty for hosting this as we reflect on our week!

I think God has shown me this week the need for us Christians to support our local Cristian radio stations. Our local station WAFJ is really growing and reaching people here in the CSRA. I went there yesterday to make an announcement for our church(I am the designated announcement person, I don't know why, I hate how I sound recorded, but everyone says I sound good.) Anyway, we are having our Fall Festival in a few weeks and they will record your announcement for free. While I was there I was talking with David the guy who records all the announcements and was just asking him how the station was doing financially. He said that they are getting ready to have a fund raising event for the next year and that they have already met 100% of their budget for this year.

Jamie and I started last year giving to the station and I have been blessed by it. After yesterday, God is giving me a burden for this ministry. Because of this station my 4 year old goes to sleep listening to God's Word. When we drive around town and go places we hear God's word. Without WAFJ it would be really hard to find uplifting music in this area. David also reminded me that they reach people who do not have a church family and they find the comfort of the Savior through the station. I have even heard testimonies of people who are just flipping through the radio channels and they get saved because they hear the story of Christ through song.

My God stop is this, if you have Christian radio station in your area, are you supporting them financially? If not, why? This is a great opportunity to build the kingdom. It doesn't take much money. Whatever you can give they are more than willing to accept it. If your station has a fund raiser soon, consider giving. You never know how that little bit of money can help reach people who may never darken the door of a church, but they can hear about the great love of our Savior through song.

Consider giving to your local station, or if you do not have one , consider giving to WAFJ. I put a link to the station on the side if you want to listen to them online click here.
Have a great weekend!

Just Call Me Crip

2008-10-08T13:37:00.002-04:00

As some of you know I have been playing Co-Ed softball for our church. We have had a good time, but last night I pulled something on my left leg. Hamstring , quad or whichever muscle is on top of your leg. Needless to say last night I played 1.5 innings. I was bummed because they let me play first and I was doing actually fairly well. So today I am limping around, and trying to prop it up whenever I can. For all of you out there, yes I stretched out(really good too.) It is just one of those things that happens when someone my age tries to play a game they haven't played for probably 20 years. I am just not as young as I used to be!! Have a great rest of your day!

The Next Tim Tebow????

2008-10-04T14:30:00.004-04:00

Well, you are looking at the next great quarterback for the Florida Gators!
Now, I don't know if Noah will be big enough have the talent, etc. to truly do this, but this I do know, whatever God has purposed for this guy to do, He will make it happen. If God chooses to give my Noah the talent of football and Noah uses it as Tim Tebow does for God's glory, then I say go for it!

The point of all this is to say isn't it great when our kids want to be like a great Godly influence such as Tim Tebow. Because of this guy, Noah likes the Florida Gators and wants to imitate him and possibly even join the Gator Nation one day. As a parent it is my job to encourage my children to find good Godly heroes. Tim Tebow, thanks for being a person my little boy can look up to. If you don't know who Tim Tebow is or want to know more about him, go here.

2008-10-03T16:15:00.004-04:00

Today is Friday and you know what that means! Time for a weekly time to stop and reflect on what God has shown you this week. All hosted by Patty a great gal!

This week God has truly reminded me that my children and a special heritage God has given me. I am to pour God into their lives. I have not done such a great job of that this week, but I am really going to try to really invest in them this next week. I only get 1 shot at this. If I do not pour God into them now, it will get increasingly harder the older they get. Take time to serve them and teach them to serve. Take time to hug and love them. Take time to discipline them and mold their heart.

Psalms 127:3 says, " Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from Him." Being a parent isn't always fun and most of the time it is hard, but it is worth every gray hair I have on my head!

I am going to end this GSF with the video I took after dinner last night. "Sons ARE a heritage from the Lord, and children are definitely a reward from HIM!" Have a great weekend. Go hug your kids!!!!

God at Kroger

2008-09-29T21:36:00.003-04:00

Well today I did my usual trip to Kroger after Hannah Beth's ballet class(this is her first year taking and she LOVES it!) With all this talk today about how bad the economy is, I just wanted to give a little testimony of God's faithfulness at Kroger today.

This week Kroger is having a decent sale on the items we use. I was able to get everything on my list, and also stock up on a few things that we use regularly. I was looking at the meat and said, "Man meat is so expensive." As if EVERYTHING is not expensive right now. I no sooner had gotten those words off my lips when I spotted 2 packages of marked down ground beef. You know the kind that expires in a day or so and is perfectly fine if you are going to freeze it or cook it that day or the next. They were marked down about half of the other. Y'all, I wanted to lift my hands and shout right there, but I refrained and just said thank you God! Thank you God. What a great opportunity to share with your kids about the faithfulness of God. I went down a little farther and some deli meat that was on sale last week and I failed to get any was on sale this week too.

God just continues to remind me that He cares about the smallest details of our life. Since I have been struggling with that over the last few weeks, it was great to see that in action. You just never know where God is going to show up! Keep your eyes pealed, because God WILL be at Kroger, and Target and Wal-mart and the mall and...

God Stop Just in Time

2008-09-26T22:43:00.003-04:00

Well I made it! There are still 1 hour and 15 minutes left on this Friday. It has been a long day. Form the time my feet hit the ground I have been going all day. Schooling, Doctor Appointment and doing clothes in between. Amidst the mounds and piles of clothes I am stopping to think back over this week and what God is showing me.

Thanks Patty for being faithful in the And reminding us to take time and think about what God is showing us each week.

I am not going to lie and say this was a fun week. It seems like over the past week and a half really, things are happening one right after the other. First it was the car(the new to us car that we have only made 2 payments on), then Jarrett needing stitches, then I tore my only pair of contacts and haven't been to the eye doctor since we have been here(3 and a half years)so I can't order more. Several other things have happened too, but this was just a bad month financially for us. God is showing me that 1 there are a lot of people worse off than me. 2 Strangely I have had a peace during this whole thing. 3. I am Believing God to take care of these needs. I know he will in His own time, but I think God is teaching me to walk with Him even though I can't see where I am gong.

Wed. night I led the youth in a similar trust game. They all wore blindfolds and I led them around the church grounds. They had to totally trust me. Even though they couldn't see where they were going they all relied on me to lead them because I could see where we were going. God is teaching me the same thing. God is saying, "Amanda even though you don't have a clue where I am leading you, come go with me. IF you do, I will give you the ride of a lifetime but you HAVE to totally trust me." That is powerful. Only God could lead you to do that activity with the youth the very week that I was struggling with all these things going on in my life. Thank you God for reminding me this week that I need to trust you in every area of my life even in the smallest things like your contacts.

Trust Him with everything because He is who He says He is!

It's That Time of Year Again

2008-09-25T10:36:00.002-04:00

Well, I don't know about you but I LOVE fall! The crispness in the air, football, and the leaves changing colors are some of my favorite things. There is one thing that I dread though. The clothes switch over!
Since we have so many kids we cannot keep all their clothes in their draws or in there closets so we have to rotate them in the spring and in the fall. As you can imagine, it is an ordeal. I know that a lot of people do this and experience the same dread as I. I am going to begin the process today of getting the clothes from the storage building choosing what is going to be worn this fall and winter and then washing them all. I then have to empty all the drawers and put away or give away what we are going to save for the next child. It usually takes me about a week to do this and our house is upside down. With schooling this year and everything I am going to attempt to get this done over the weekend. We will see... I hope you are all having a great week. See you back tomorrow for God Stop! Have a great day! :)

Another One Down!

2008-09-23T06:54:00.004-04:00

Noah lost his first front tooth last night. Of course the battery in the camera is dead so I had to take the picture with my phone. The quality is not great but you can get the idea. Loosing a tooth is always so exciting! Have a great day!

A New Day!

2008-09-22T06:46:00.002-04:00

Today is a new day! Aren't we glad that God allows us to start fresh everyday. What a mess I would be in if I couldn't! This week starts a busy time in our life. We start Co-Ed softball tomorrow night and Jamie and I are both playing, we have meetings just about every night, not to mention that dreaded thing called school.
I know that school should not be a dread, but that is what it is to me right now. Please pray that God will reveal what we are supposed to do. I really struggle with this on a daily basis. Also, finances this month are tight for the last week and a half. With the extra trips and paying taxes(as a pastor Jamie is considered self-employed and we have to pay quarterly.) God has never let us down before but it is always a hard week and a half.
As I read in my Believing God study this morning that I will bless the Lord no matter what. His praise will CONTINUALLY be on my lips.
With all that said, I pray that your Monday goes well. "I will Bless the Lord at ALL times."
Love you!

Our Pitiful Bulldogs :(

2008-09-20T22:17:00.004-04:00

This is how Saturdays should be spent! Today we just hung out around the house, done a little work and laundry and spent the rest of the day watching football.
Yes, I am a gal who LOVES football. We spent the first part of our football day watching the PITIFUL Mississippi State Bulldogs get pummeled by the Georgia Tech Yellow jackets. Jamie and I have come to the conclusion that our team is sorry. It got to the point today that I would just laugh when we messed up to keep from crying! We may not win another game this year. Next week we play LSU, then Vandy, then TN and the list goes on and on. We have come to expect this as State fans, but always hope it never comes. Oh well another day in the life of a Mississippi State fan!
I hope you all had a great day and have a great day in the house of the Lord tomorrow. Love you!

God Stop Friday

2008-09-19T15:59:00.012-04:00

I know, I know, I know, it has been a while. If you could have only walked with me this week, you would understand.

Thanks to Patty for hosting God Stop Friday!

This week has been a roller coaster ride. Monday we were doing great until I got in the car to take Hannah Beth to ballet(this is her first year and LOVES it), and the air did not work at all. We rode to a neighboring town about 20 minutes away in 95degree heat with no air. It was miserable! Jamie took it in the shop the next day and we had to replace the air compressor. Nothing like having to put your new to you car in the shop after having it for only 2 months! God provided us not having to pay the entire amount, but the amount we did have to pay, we had to put on the CC that we are trying to pay off! There have been a lot of other financial strains this month already on top of the car.

Then on Thursday Jarrett fell and we had to take him to get 3 stitches in his head(see previous post). In the midst of all this we are still schooling which is a totally another post.

Right now I think that God is showing me that I must totally trust Him. If I don't my life will crumble. I have had a peace throughout this week that He is going to pay for everything, but it still weighs on you.

Thank you God that You are sufficient to take care of everything in my life as long as I rely on You. Please help me to continue to give all to You!

Gashes and Stitches

2008-09-19T15:59:00.011-04:00

Well yesterday was an adventure to say the least. The kids and I were in the kitchen doing schoolwork when I heard Jarrett crying, I mean screaming in the back. I ran back there and scooped him up only to find blood coming down the side of his face. I took him in the bathroom and saw a pretty big gash. I called Jamie and the his pediatrician. They told me to bring him right in.

Have you ever been in a hurry with an emergency like that and go out of the door not caring what you look like? That was me. (when I got to the doc office and went to the restroom, I looked in the mirror and saw someone with ratty clothes and no makeup. At least I had brushed my teeth.(it was about 11:00)) Back to the story, I jumped in the car and headed t the docs which is about 20 minutes away. I got behind every slow person. I went the back way so that I could drive a little faster, because I had heard somewhere that is you don't get gashes stitched up within a certain amount of time, they couldn't stitch them up. I was going to pass this UPS truck and it went in the middle of the road so I couldn't pass. How rude I thought, so I turned on my flashers. Jamie told me later that night that it wasn't that much of an emergency, but you know us Mom's!

The doc examined him and said that he would need 2 stitches. He ended up using the big stitches and it took 3. Y'all he had gashed it open to the skull! Sorry for those of you who have weak stomachs. He is fine and doing better, but last night I wasn't too sure. He was very dazed and tired. God protected him, because he could have easily cracked his skull. This is my little man's injury.

The doc told me to keep neosporen and a band aid on it, but of course we had no little ones and this is the best I could do.

Stay tuned to the next exciting adventure in"A Day in the Life......

(this is Jarrett making his silly eyes!)

Back to the Grind

2008-09-15T06:35:00.002-04:00

Mondays are always hard aren't they! They are especially hard if you have had some time away from your daily routine. I tell you I was not ready to come home at all!!! The time always goes by too fast. My man and I had a good time away and had some great discussions. We got to preview the new movie Fireproof that is coming out Sept.26. All I have to say is that if you are married or thinking of getting married, it is a MUST!!! The movie is done by the makers of Facing the Giants. Unlike FTG, Fireproof is dealing with adult marriage issues that would not be great for little ones. Oh yeah, did I forget to mention that Kirk Cameron from Growing Pains is in the movie too! Please, please, please support this movie! Even if you NEVER go to the movies (like us) make it a point to go on opening weekend and see this movie. Take your lost friends with you as it clearly gives the gospel message. If I haven't peaked your interest enough, watch this! They told us at the preview that Kirk Cameron was not paid for doing this movie and at the end, there is a kissing scene where they flew his wife in so that he would not kiss anyone but his own wife. This movie was done with great integrity and as I said before it is a MUST. I hope you have a great day! Love you all!

Greetings All

2008-09-14T17:40:00.003-04:00

We made it home from our trip. I will post more about it later. Check yesterday's post from my man. This is awesome. More times than not, things don't just happen, they happen over time. I will give more background on it later. I hope you have a great rest of your Lord's day! Talk to you later!

Some Time Away!

2008-09-10T06:29:00.004-04:00

Well, I am glad this day is here! In a few hours Jamie and I will be heading to a Pastor's Conference in Gatlinburg. We do this once a year, and have gone to Atlanta the past few years but decided to do something different. This is such a nice refreshing time. The conference is put on by Johnny Hunt from FBC Woodstock, GA. They do a great job and the best part is I get to go too! I am so looking forward to getting away and regrouping. I believe God has a specific word for me and I am open so speak Lord! I will try to blog while I am away, but if I don't I will catch you up on everything when I get back. If you are going to be at the conference let's try to look for each other! I hoe you all have a great rest of your week. My Texas siestas, stay safe!

Sing to the King!!!

2008-09-07T17:28:00.002-04:00

What a great day in the house of the Lord! Jamie reminded us today in scripture that our King is coming for us! He preached from John 14:1-6. Anytime we are down about the things of this world let us always be reminded that our Bridegroom has gone to prepare a place for us! We sang this song this morning(minus the guitars and drums. all we had was piano, but listen to the words.) it is a great reminder of what we have to come! Have a great rest of your day!

God Stop Friday

2008-09-05T07:01:00.003-04:00

As most of you know my Siesta Patty hosts God Stop Friday as a way to reflect on the way God has worked in our life this past week.

God really showed out in the midst of tragedy and sadness. As I posted earlier in the week Jamie's sister passed away. It was a tragic accident, and Jamie was able to speak at the funeral and share the gospel. What a great opportunity God provided. Next week we are going to our annual Pastor's conference, and with Jamie going to this funeral it left us with our gas budget gone. I didn't know how we were still going to be able to go. We were both discouraged because it seems like every time we make plans to go somewhere, another financial need comes up and we a, are not able to go or b, we can't enjoy our trip because we are stressed out about money. Over the course of this week God provided enough money to pay for the gas as well as have a little left over to pay down some of the cc debt I have been praying we would be delivered from.

God you are too much. Whatever need you have right now, give it to Him. His resources are so vast that He can take care of every area. All we have to do is be obedient to Him. Praise Gos to Whom ALL Blessings Flow! Have a great weekend. Remember this song from the children's department, " My God is so GREAT so strong and so mighty, there's NOTHING my God cannot do!!!"

*A funny note to leave you on, We were talking this morning about getting older and not being able to eat certain food after 8:00pm at night. I made the comment to Jamie that were are just getting older. MY gracious oldest daughter said, "Momma when Jarrett is 8 will you be a Granny?" MY mouth fell open and I told her, "No, but I will be 39!" Ouch!!! I can't believe I am this old! Go ahead have a laugh at my expense! Hey, I am secure in who I am in Christ(and I am definitely NOT a Granny!)

Thankful Thursday

2008-09-04T16:12:00.002-04:00

Isn't is great how God takes care of us. I am thankful to Him for bringing my man home safe and sound. I am dying to post about God's provision for us this week, but I will save that for my God Stop tomorrow. Thank you God for protection my husband on his trip and how you took care of all those on the Gulf Coast! Check back tomorrow for my God Stop! Have a great night!

Wonderful Wednesday

2008-09-03T06:54:00.002-04:00

I hope your week is going well so far. Mine is a little stressful. Jamie is gone to Mississippi for his sister's funeral(Jamie's dad was married before and had 2 daughters. His first wife died in a tornado.) She died in some sort of pool accident over the weekend. The funeral is today at 3:00 and then he will be driving back tonight. It is a 7-8 hour drive. Please pray for his protection and my sanity. I don't do well when he is away.

Please continue to pray for our schooling as well. It is still very stressful and I am really struggling right now. Thanks for checking in on us! Have a great day!