my cup runneth over

Food For Friday

2008-10-03T00:50:00.013-04:00

Here in the midwest, fall has definitely arrived! Last night, we went to our nephew's football game immediately after work and we were FREEZING in the stands! Even those dressed in sweaters & sweatshirts were cold! (I must admit it was quite nice to be snuggled extra close to my hubby as we both were trying to warm up!) We truly love the fall season. The leaves here this week have really started to change...it's so beautiful! (Oh, and my nephew's team won -- woohoo!)

Kim from Seasons of my Heart and a few of her friends take part in "Food for Friday" so I decided to jump on the bandwagon to share some of our fall favorites, too! Today's recipe comes from our lovely friend, Susan Sumner. She was a former neighbor, and one we just adore! I think of her each time I make this. It is WONDERFUL and seemingly foolproof. (I've made many times and it always turns out yummy!)

Pumpkin Bread
(makes 3 loaves)

3 cups sugar
1 cup oil
4 eggs
1 reg. size can of pumpkin
1 1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon cloves
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
3 1/3 cups of flour

Oatmeal or Sliced Almonds (optional)

Pour batter into 3 greased and floured loaf pans. If you'd like, sprinkle on a little oatmeal or a few sliced almonds on top. Bake for approximately 90 minutes at 325 degrees (or when toothpick inserted comes out clean). As you might have guessed, this is not low-fat...but it is DELICIOUS! Enjoy!

Happy weekend to you!

Word-Filled Wednesday

2008-10-01T00:07:00.026-04:00

I've known since early Monday morning what I planned to share today. I was reading my daily Bible, disappointed in myself for falling a few days behind (I was then reading the passages for Friday, 9/26). That morning found me in Isaiah 43. As my eyes fell upon this portion, these words seemed to be highlighted-in-neon, bold print and underscored:

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past;
See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up;
do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert
and streams in the wasteland."

I read this phrase over and over. I finished my quiet time encouraged and at peace, thinking in God's perfect timing, I was intended to read that on Monday. I say that because in the hours before bed on Sunday, I was praying about something I’ve prayed over for years. It was one of those moments I just felt so weary, deep within my heart. I suspect you've been there too. You pray about something for so long, yet see no evidence of change. And though you haven't "given up," you sometimes surrender to the discouragement. Tears falling, heart aching...I was there.

Had any doubt remained that God intended that truth for me on Monday, it disappeared soon after I arrived at work. As I began checking e-mail, a devotional message I receive regularly arrived. (You're probably smiling now, knowing where this is going...) Bet you can guess what scripture was the basis for that devotional message...yep. Then, later that same morning (because God knows I sometimes need a virtual 2 x 4 to the forehead), I received a message from a friend, quoting yes, this same scripture! Wow! Got it, Lord! You can bet this week, I'm praying with renewed purpose and excitement about this long-standing desire of my heart. Thank you sweet Father, for this undeniable encouragement from your Word. I praise you that you love us enough to show us these glimpses when our faith begins to wane.

Where does this find you? Is there something that's burdened your heart far too long? Are you discouraged and hurting today, looking with human eyes at what seems like a hopeless situation? I pray as you read and ponder this promise from our Lord, you too will be encouraged. Keep trusting, believing and resting in Him. He is able, but even more importantly, He is faithful.

For more Word-Filled Wednesday posts,
join us at 160 Acre Woods!

Seven Random Things...

2008-09-29T08:42:00.017-04:00

Good morning!

Both Lea of Shabby Olde Potting Shed and Kristi of KiKi’s Corner have tagged me for Seven Random Things. The rules are to share seven random things about you, tag seven friends, then visit their blogs and let them know they’ve been tagged.

I came to a conclusion while trying to think of what seven things to share…I need a little more adventure in my life! Hopefully, you will find these at least somewhat interesting. If nothing else…insight into my quirkiness. Here goes…

1. I can’t swim. I can float, but only on my stomach (strange, I know!) I’ll go into water up to my chin, but never deeper than that. (Call me chicken…it’s ok.)

2. I love to create things (ornaments, note cards, scrapbooks, etc…)

3. I’m an organizer. In fact, you could say that’s how I make my living (setting up and organizing large files and projects for a law firm). On the home front, I’m not quite as good at maintaining the organization (which somewhat defeats the purpose of trying to be organized in the first place…)

4. Due to circumstances completely beyond my control, I was 20 minutes late for my own wedding! (In fact, I had a friend who nicknamed me “10 till 8,” because my wedding, though scheduled for 7:30 pm, didn’t start until 7:50 pm!)

5. I love to color. When Tom and I were first married and money was in short supply, we bought two coloring books and a 64 pack of crayons. When we couldn’t afford dinner and a movie out (which was often), we’d fix grilled cheese sandwiches and pull out the coloring books. We spent many weekend nights coloring Snoopy and Masters of the Universe (I still have these somewhere in storage!) lol

6. When I was a little girl, I always wished my name was Julie or Holly. Most of my Barbies, stuffed animals and baby dolls were Julie or Holly. I always chose one of those two names for myself when playing school or office, too.

7. I love talking to people one-on-one, but public speaking before a group absolutely scares me to death. Just thinking about it quickens my pulse and causes me to break out into a sweat!

Still with me? Still awake? (Hope so.) These are my tagged friends…can’t wait to see their answers!

Cheryl of Hope for Each Day

Cindy of 12 Arrows

e-Mom of Chysalis

Julie of Jewelz Sightings

Krista of Krista's Chronicles and Coffee Talk

Lynn of Somewhere in the Middle

Tricia of It’s All About Him

Be a blessing to someone today…
Tracy

Thankful Thursday

2008-09-25T08:43:00.008-04:00

Good morning,

First, I want to thank Iris for faithfully providing us the opportunity to share our thankful hearts each week. What a blessing it has been, and continues to be. I understand this sweet sister has a birthday this weekend…Happy Birthday Iris! ☺ We’re so thankful for you!

Today also finds me thankful for…

♥ The hope and promise we have in Christ. As we’ve spent time with Karen’s immediate family, we’ve been able to encourage a number of them with God’s word. Her family is a very musical one, so we knew songs like “With Hope” by Steven Curtis Chapman “Homesick” by MercyMe and others would be especially encouraging, so we’ve shared those with them over the past few days, as well. In our conversations, several of them told us they struggle with things of faith, yet they were so grateful to be reminded of what God promises for His children, because Karen had that faith. It is our prayer that they too will come to embrace or restore their faith in Christ through this loss.

♥ The Holy Spirit. Tom and I have been more aware than usual of His presence throughout the past few days. You could undoubtedly sense Him in her room during prayer, and we have felt His promptings and guidance in many of our interactions and conversations.

♥ Your faithful prayers and kind friendship. What an encouragement you’ve been! Karen’s sister, MaryBeth, told me she knows it is the prayers of friends and family that are sustaining them right now, and will continue to in the time to come. Thank you for being willing to pray not only for their family, but for lifting us, as well. It means more than I can adequately express.

♥ The eight people who will benefit from Karen’s loss through organs she donated. What a gift to pass along! She was a registered dietician, so she understood the importance of eating healthy and exercising, so her organs are likely very healthy ones. I always thought I wanted to be an organ donor, but having a better understanding of the process has confirmed it. (I hope you too will think about it. If it's something you would like to do, tell someone close to you and indicate your wishes on your driver's license.)

May this Thursday find you thankful…
Tracy

To read what other thankful hearts are saying, join us at Sting my Heart.

Word-Filled Wednesday

2008-09-24T00:01:00.004-04:00

(from Heartlight.org)

For more Word-Filled Wednesday posts,
join us at 160 Acre Woods!

Please Pray - UPDATED

2008-09-21T00:50:00.008-04:00

Tom and I just returned home from the hospital. Earlier tonight, we received one of those dreaded and surreal telephone calls saying that Tom's cousin, Karen had suffered a "devastating head injury" today. She was airlifted to a local hospital and after a battery of tests, confirmed to have no brain activity.

We know God can do anything, so of course we immediately prayed that if it be within His will, He would work a miracle and bring about some activity, and ultimately restore the damage that had been done. We headed to the hospital and were shown the way to a waiting area that was absolutely overflowing with family and friends, most of whom are in shock. Around 10:00 pm, her parish priest arrived and called everyone to her room for prayer. There were so many people filling every space around her and spilling out into the hallway. She is undoubtedly well-loved.

Karen is one of the most kind and caring people you'd ever want to know. She has a very strong faith in the Lord and is an incredible servant. This month, she and her husband, Mark are celebrating 25 years of marriage. They have three sons. One who is a sophomore in high school, one who is a senior and their oldest, who is a junior in college. The oldest has been on a mission trip in Spain. He's in the process of trying to get home as quickly as possible. Karen and Tom are the same age (51). They grew up together. When Tom and I were engaged and then married, she was one of the first people in the family to reach out and try to make me feel welcome.

Even though there are already many praying for Karen, her husband, their boys and her siblings, could you please pray, too? We pray with hope, yet fully trust in God's sovereign will. Many thanks.

UPDATE (Sunday afternoon): We learned a short time ago, Karen has passed away. God did indeed heal her body...though not the way we would have hoped. I do ask your continuing prayers for Mark and their boys. They're all great guys and they adored Karen. Please also pray for her siblings. Their family is strong and very close. They have endured a number of tragic losses and difficulties in the past few years. This loss will be felt deeply. Thank you so much.

Thankful Thursday!

2008-09-18T09:26:00.006-04:00

As you can imagine, after Sunday’s windstorm I am so very thankful this week…

♥ First, that our damage was truly minimal. I’m especially grateful none of the trees surrounding our home came down. There are so many in our area who lost very old, large trees and many suffered substantial damage to their homes. There were a number of people who died as a result of fallen trees or power lines. The husband of a good friend narrowly missed being hit by a falling utility pole while driving their van on Sunday.

♥ That our power was restored by Monday night! You really don’t know just how much you utilize electricity until you don’t have it. I truly have a new appreciation this week for lights, my appliances, computer, tv, air conditioning, etc. I still have several co-workers and extended family without power.

♥ The weather since the storm has been absolutely beautiful, and there is no rain in the forecast until early next week! This has been and will continue to be a huge help to the linemen working to restore power, as well as the contractors trying to repair home and roof damage.

♥ That we were able to call on linemen from North and South Carolina to assist our crews in repairing downed lines, replace transformers/utility poles and restore power. They’re still working around the clock to get power back for the remaining residents (about 200,000).

♥ The opportunities for service this has provided. One local ministry gave out thousands of bags of ice. Several churches have provided dinners for those in the community without power. I’ve also heard of those who have grilled what was left in their freezer and shared it with friends and neighbors. I was able to talk with many co-workers and offer to have them in our home either to stay, to take showers, etc. I offered to do laundry or anything they might need. Most importantly, I was able to encourage them and let them know I would pray for them. I believe God was planting some seeds through those conversations.

♥ That I have an even greater understanding and compassion toward those who endure hurricanes year after year.

♥ That my fridge and freezer haven’t been this clean since they were new. ☺

♥ That I now have the opportunity to be a bit more prepared next time!

Please continue to pray for those affected in any way by these last few hurricanes.

May this Thursday find you thankful!
Tracy

To read other Thankful Thursday posts, join us at Sting my Heart.

Ike's Remnants Felt Strongly Here

2008-09-17T00:01:00.016-04:00

(Photo Courtesy of Cincinnati Enquirer - Anna Listerman)

Would you believe substantial remnants of Hurricane Ike made it all they way up into the greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area?

I woke up Sunday morning thinking it was quite windy. By midday, as my husband was watching the Cincinnati football game, the local channel kept losing their signal due to high wind. Within about an hour, it went from high winds to really intense, sustained winds. There were intermittent clouds and sun, but no rain, no storm warnings, just this crazy, continuous gusting wind that didn’t let up for more than three hours. (We later learned they were 75 mph.) Our electricity went off at 2:00 pm. The winds continued. These were the hardest sustained winds we’ve ever experienced and we began to see shingles from our roof tumbling into the back yard. Then we started praying and tried not to worry about the old, large trees surrounding our house that were taking quite a beating. There were huge limbs and branches everywhere.

Around 6:00 or so, things seemed to start settling down. We went outside to find we had lost a fair number of roof shingles, and a number of our landscape plants were mangled, but minimal damage considering what could have been. By now, we were hearing sirens continually from fire trucks, police, paramedics, etc. all throughout the evening into the overnight hours. We went to bed late still with no power, not having any inkling of how far-reaching the outage was.

Woke up Monday still without electricity. Both Tom and I took a vacation day. We placed a call first thing to a contractor for our roof damage and started cleaning up some of the mess in our yard. We were still working in the yard (as were many around us) Monday afternoon when our next door neighbor returned home from work. He told us the power outage was enormous, and had affected 90% of the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area. There were trees and power lines down everywhere. The energy company had restored power at that time to 200,000 people, but there were still a vast number of people without. Apparently our linemen had headed to Texas to assist with Hurricane Ike, leaving very few to service our area.

Our neighbor also told us all the local groceries were without power, that Kroger was rationing ice to two bags per person and the police were stationed in those areas. There were long lines at the gas stations, but most weren’t working because the pumps were electronic. I was stunned. In my recollection, nothing like this has ever happened here. Our energy company had called in crews from North and South Carolina to help in getting power restored. Our neighbor said news reports were estimating it would be the end of the week before all power in our area was fully restored. We began to consider how blessed we were. The weather after the windstorm was unseasonably cool and breezy, unlike the heat and humidity we had just a few days ago. This was no doubt a huge help.

Despite feeling blessed, I must admit I did get a bit heartsick about the food I had to throw away from the fridge and freezer Monday night. (I had just done our grocery shopping on Saturday.) The outage had extended beyond the point where the food was safe, and trash was to be picked up the next morning. I was washing dishes by candlelight just before 9:00 pm, when our power was restored. I don’t think I’ve ever appreciated it more. I kept walking through my house just thanking the Lord. Then we turned on the news. Talk about eye-opening. It confirmed everything our neighbor had told us, and then some. Seeing there were still over 500,000 people without power and images of severe damage (trees into homes, telephone poles down, fires, water main breaks, etc.), my loss of groceries and roof shingles was nothing in comparison. We were able to go to bed Monday night with our electricity restored. Many people on our bus and at our workplace yesterday were still without. Even in downtown Cincinnati, I saw two buildings with shattered windows and severely damaged revolving doors.

I feel both blessed and very sympathetic to those who don’t yet have electricity. (As of now, approximately 350,000.) Many of the local fitness centers and the YMCA branches have opened their shower facilities to the general public, for those who don't have friends or relatives with power. Local hotels that are operational are offering rooms at discounted rates, as well. One of our local ministries has been passing out free bags of ice by the thousands and nearby churches are providing dinners for those in need.

I don’t begin to compare this to the devastation in Texas. Doesn’t even come close. The local weather forecasters say this was a highly irregular phenomenon for our area that a took everyone by surprise. Even so, I discovered just how ill-prepared I was for something like this. I had allowed my cell phone battery to get very low so when the power went out, I hardly had any charge with which to call or hear from anyone. I had only one working flashlight in my house, no batteries and very little in the way of non-refrigerated, ready-to-eat food. I will definitely be a little better prepared should this type of thing ever happen again. Hope you will take this as a loving reminder to make sure you, too are prepared in the event of an unexpected emergency or power outage.

Some additional images of damage to our area…

(Photograph courtesy of Cincinnati Enquirer - Charles Kapiotis)

(Photo courtesy of Cincinnati Enquirer - Brock Heterington)

(Photos courtesy of Cincinnati Enquirer - Scott Martini)

(Photo courtesy of wcpo.com - dmrsrn)

Please continue to pray with me for those everywhere who sustained damage, but especially those in Texas who received the brunt of Hurricane Ike’s wrath. Please also pray for the service men working around the clock to repair lines and restore power.

Happy Anniversary to my Sweetheart!

2008-09-12T14:41:00.015-04:00

Hope this finds you well. Thanks once again for your prayers and kindness for my hubby and I. We’ve been able to spend some sweet and precious time together in the last couple of weeks. A few rough moments (as we expected), but we’ve truly sensed God’s unmistakable presence through your prayers.

In the midst of my blogging break, Tom and I celebrated our 24th wedding anniversary. If you wouldn’t mind, I’d like to reminisce a bit, and share some sweet thoughts, both to and about my beloved.

Here we are, September 1, 1984. (I dare say a few of you weren’t even born yet!) Would you just look at my man. Is he handsome or what!?! I had always wished as a little girl my hubby would have brown eyes. God certainly delivered that and then some! ☺ I can’t help but smile when I see my hat in this photo. It started in the right place, tilted down at the front in a very sophisticated way, but after several hours, many hugs and a few dances later, it looks more like I was a cowgirl bride. (lol) All kidding aside, we had a beautiful wedding. I remember thinking that day I couldn't possibly love him any more. All these years later, I'm thankful to know that was but a glimpse of the love I have for him today.

As others have done, I want to share with Tom 24 special things I love about him.

1. I love that you always reach over and take my hand when we pray.
2. I love that you call me “your very best girl.”
3. I love that you always make a point of thanking me when I make a meal.
4. I love watching what an amazing Dad you are.
5. I love they way you're so attentive to take care of trees, our yard and especially the flowers I plant.
6. I love riding the bus to work with you each morning.
7. I love the way you sneak and do the laundry sometimes to surprise me.
8. I love that you’re so careful to keep your side of the vanity so nice and neat.
9. I love your sweet e-cards.
10. I love the name game we always play.
11. I love that even when you’re tired, you’ll often ask, “What can I do to help you?”
12. I love watching storms with you from the back porch.
13. I love that anytime we finish a meal, you insist on clearing the dishes and putting away the leftovers.
14. I love that you’re a kid at heart.
15. I love that you’re a man of a thousand faces and voices.
16. I love watching movies with you, especially when they make you laugh.
17. I love how much you love everything about fall.
18. I love the way you call me outside to see a beautiful sunset or starry sky.
19. I love the way you surprise me with sweet treats.
20. I love how excited you get about Christmas.
21. I love taking walks with you, especially on snowy days.
22. I love how excited you get and how much you want to “see all there is to see” when we travel someplace new.
23. I love that you always encourage me more than usual on Bible study days, because you know I get a bit anxious.
24. I love that you truly cherish Brennan and I.

I could honestly go on and on…there so much more I love about you. I’m beyond blessed. Happy (belated) Anniversary, Sweetie!

Taking a Little Break

2008-08-29T13:00:00.004-04:00

Just wanted to let you know I'm taking a blogging break. Planning to spend some extra time with my hubby. Be back soon.

In the meantime, here are links to some of my favorite previous posts...

Worth the Wait

The Potter & the Clay

Commit and Rest

A Loving Reminder from God

Lessons for Life (Through an Old Man at the Airport)

A Gracious Second Chance

Opposite Extremes

Thankful Thursday

2008-08-28T08:00:00.000-04:00

Today, my heart is overwhelmed with thanks and love for you. My blog and e-mail inbox has been flooded with kind words, prayer and encouraging scriptures, since sharing our need earlier this week. Quite a number of them came from those who were introducing themselves for the first time! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, God is so good to me through you! My husband, who didn’t even know yet about the post (or your many kind words) even expressed he now has peace. This is not to say there won’t be many tears as we say good-bye, or some difficult days, but that dread and heart heaviness we were both feeling has lifted. I feel certain your prayers helped us through the period of “Acceptance.”

You must also know my heart is so grateful that in the most important of all ways, Brennan is ready for this. That’s huge! He may forget some of what we've taught him about doing laundry, or balancing a checking, but his heart for God has never been stronger or more prepared. His passion is a joy to see. Throughout his young life, he has seen God do some amazing things, so He places no limits on Him (that I and many others are sometimes inclined to do). He has some God-sized dreams that he awaits with much hope. Tom and I pray God will use him greatly, and believe with all our hearts that He will. Words can’t even express the joy and peace that gives.

Once again, many thanks…for your love, friendship, prayers and encouragement. "For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers."
~Ephesians 1:15-16

Hugs,
Tracy

To read other Thankful Thursday posts, join us at Sting my Heart.

Confession Time

2008-08-26T06:00:00.010-04:00

Can I be really honest with you? My hubby and I could really use your prayers. Hearts are tender and somewhat heavy in my house these days. Soon our one and only son, Brennan will depart for college, over 400 miles from home. In one fell swoop, we will become empty nesters. Unlike some of our friends with a house full of kids, we’ve never been eager for this stage. Our little family has always been very close. I wouldn’t trade that for anything, nor would I change it if given the chance to do it all again. But it does make this particular time especially difficult. There are no other kids in our home clamoring for our attention. No other babies for the tending. (We don’t even have a dog, for heaven sake!)

My hubby and I both know God’s grace is more than sufficient to meet our needs and ease our heartbreak. We are confident He has gone to great lengths to prepare us for this time. We’re leaning hard on that, in fact. We also know countless parents have experienced what we’re preparing to walk through and just like them, we’ll be alright, we just dread the process. Typically, Tom and I are much more inclined to the giving of prayers and encouragement as opposed to the asking for it. But because I consider you friends, I want to be real, transparent and honest before you. Several of you have already been praying for us. We can’t express how much we appreciate that. We also know that in the grand scheme, there are those with far greater needs and certainly far deeper pain than ours.

For those with little ones, I know this day seems far away. Believe me when I tell you it will be here before you know it and you’ll wonder how in the world it happened. Can I give some advice you can never hear too often? Cherish the everyday moments. Read the extra story. Play a bit longer. Talk a little more. Hug & kiss them every chance you get. Speak words of love and affirmation daily. Linger over them as they sleep. Pray for God’s greatest blessings in their lives. Savor them like never before. You’ll never regret it.

Here's a little glimpse of Brennan's first 19 years of life...

Form Letters to God

2008-08-25T08:00:00.011-04:00

Not long ago, I received the following message, written by Jon Walker (one of my favorite devotional writers). It was very impacting and I must admit...convicting.

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself up for me.” (Galatians 2:20 NASB)

There’s an amusing story of a business executive who, at the end of a long day of travel, climbs into bed at a hotel. As he begins to nod off, he feels something crawling up his legs.

Leaping up and fumbling with the light, he throws back the sheets to discover the bed is full of bugs. Changing rooms was not enough to satisfy the man’s disgust. When he got home, he wrote a letter of complaint to the hotel’s corporate headquarters.

Weeks later, he received a reply directly from the president of the company:

“We are absolutely appalled that a man of your position and reputation should have had such an experience in one of our hotels. We are deeply, deeply embarrassed, and we assure you that we are working diligently to correct this problem. It will never happen again.”

As he read the reply, the businessman felt great! The hotel management had heard him; they’d committed to making a change; and now every customer would benefit from the businessman’s initiative.

As he folded the letter, a small Post-it® note floated to the floor. Picking it up, the man saw, in a hand-written scrawl, “Send this guy the bug letter.”

Have you been sending “bug letters” to God? Form letters that cover any concerns and commitments between you and the Father; standardized responses to God’s commands, directions, or promptings; a file full of templates that allow you to walk by sight and not by faith?

It’s easy to say you’ll be a more supportive husband and a more attentive father. Will you allow God to lead your transformation, or will you send him a form letter?

It’s easy to say you’ll be a more loving mother and a more encouraging wife. Will you allow God to lead your transformation, or will you reach into the file cabinet for another form letter? Don’t waste God’s grace, my friend. Let him transform you. Let him teach you to walk by faith and not by form letters or ritual reactions.

See yourself in this story? Consider this...

· God is not surprised – He knows the intent of your heart and the truth of your priorities. He knows when you’ve sent him a form letter. His desire is not to condemn you, but to grow you. What form letter to God will you tear up today?

· Be authentic – Speak to God from the depths of your heart. Tell him about your fears, your hurts, your dark places, your sins – and allow him to be your Heavenly Father.

· Jesus is personal – Jesus doesn’t keep you at a distance, thinking of you as just another standard, typical, “templated” believer. He lives in you and guides you, and you access his power through faith: “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” (Galatians 2:20 NASB)

Lord, may I not waste your grace by sending "form letter prayers." The price you paid was far too high that I should treat you as I often have. I want so much to walk by faith, to be changed. Do a work in my heart, Father. I want to always show you the love, reverence and respect you so deserve. May it be so, Lord Jesus...Amen.

Be Still Sunday

2008-08-24T10:55:00.001-04:00

God's Cake

2008-08-22T08:23:00.009-04:00

All this talk about cake reminded me of an e-mail I received a while back. You’ve probably seen it, too. It’s called “God’s Cake.” Though not deep theology, it is quite a vivid illustration of the way God blends everything (even the seemingly bad) in our lives, for our ultimate good.

A daughter is telling her Mother how everything is going wrong, she's failing algebra, her boyfriend broke up with her and her best friend is moving away.

Meanwhile, her Mother is baking a cake and asks her daughter if she would like a snack, and the daughter says,

"Absolutely Mom, I love your cake."

“Here, have some cooking oil," her Mother offers.

"Yuck" says her daughter.

"How about a couple raw eggs?"

"Gross, Mom!"

"Would you like some flour then? Or maybe baking soda?"

"Mom, those are all yucky!"

To which the mother replies: "Yes, all those things seem bad all by themselves. But when they are put together in the right way, they make a wonderfully delicious cake!"

God works the same way. Many times we wonder why He would let us go through such bad and difficult times. But God knows that when He puts these things all in His order, they always work for good! We just have to trust Him and, eventually, they will all make something wonderful!

I hope your day is a "piece of cake!"

Word-Filled Wednesday

2008-08-20T01:58:00.005-04:00

(Photo source: Google images)

For more Word-Filled Wednesday posts,
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Taste and See that the Lord is good! (Psalm 34:8) - UPDATED

2008-08-19T05:27:00.026-04:00

I recently tasted a most amazing and wonderful cake. I've had wonderful cakes before, but this is possibly among the most delicious of my entire 42 years of life!

At work a couple of weeks ago, we all received an e-mail from Brad, one of our summer interns (a 19-year-old college student) saying his Mom had sent in cake in honor of his birthday. He said he had left some in the kitchens of every floor of our office. I immediately thought, "Wow! how nice...that's a lot of cake!" In an effort to "be good," I quickly decided to forego a trip to the nearest kitchen and resumed work on my task. Moments later, a co-worker of mine came bursting in saying "I brought you some of Brad's cake!" For a split second I was disappointed, but then quickly decided it was only right that I should partake. After all, she HAD made a special trip trip just to deliver the goods...it was such a kind gesture...how could I say no? ; )

Let me just say as soon as I took the first bite, I knew I was in trouble. Wow! In a matter of moments, the cake was gone and I was literally sad! It was that good! Soon thereafter, I saw Brad. I said..."that cake..." He just started smiling and nodding... "yes...I know." I decided to be bold..."Do you think I could get your Mom's recipe?" "Sure" he said. I walked away thinking I better start searching the Internet, because 19-years-olds have a lot more important things on their minds than recipes. After searching every conceivable description of the cake on Google, I gave up. Would you believe a couple of days later, he stopped by to see me...recipe in hand?! I was so impressed. My happiness spilled over when I looked at the recipe for "Brad's Cake" and realized that it was incredibly simple. I've already made it...twice! It's pretty much foolproof, and perfect for those times you need to whip up a quick dessert. In honor of your sweet friendship (and with Brad's blessing), I'm sharing this deliciousness with you! Enjoy!

1 white cake mix
1 can "Thank You" brand chocolate pudding
(I found this near the instant cheesecake mixes at our Kroger)
2 eggs

Combine these three items until smooth. (Batter will be thick) Spread in 9 x 13 pan.

In a separate bowl, combine:
1/2 cup of sugar
1 cup chocolate chips (I used milk chocolate)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (I used walnuts and chopped them very fine)

Once well blended, sprinkle over the cake batter. (There is enough to cover the top of the entire cake). Bake at 350 for 45 minutes. That's it!

(Variation: You can also use 1 box of yellow cake with butterscotch pudding and chips in place of chocolate.)

One other sweet blessing that came about because of this cake...I spent more time talking with Brad. I learned he is a Christian (which I should have suspected based on his demeanor around our office). He's a great guy. The Mom heart in me then thought of his Mom. I asked how she was doing with his fast-approaching return to college. He said, "She's doing well...she's quite a tough cookie." He then went on to tell me how she fought two different types of cancer during his high school years, and now is cancer free. She is considered quite a miracle. Her oncologist even nicknamed her, "Lazarus." Seeing her faith through such a difficult journey has obviously made quite an impact on this young man. His love and admiration for her is evident, as is his gratitude to the Great Physician who brought about her healing. I can't tell you how much that blessed this Mom's heart. Something tells me I'm going to think about Brad and his Mom each time I bake that cake, making it even sweeter than ever before.

UPDATE: I'm so sorry for those of you who haven't been able to find the canned pudding. Our local Kroger carries it, but I had to enlist the help of a manager in order to find it. My first suggestion would be to ask at the service desk, or ask a manager. (Only because I had looked so carefully and felt certain they didn't have it.) Another option is to try using chocolate pudding made from a mix, or better still, the predone style. (Thanks Elaine!) The can size is 15.75 ounces, so if you simply measure out about 16 ounces, it will be about the same amount in volume...I'm hopeful that it would still taste good, as well. (If you do try this option, would you let me know how it turns out?) One final option...here's a link where you can actually order the pudding online!

Blessed and Honored

2008-08-18T00:00:00.005-04:00

Greetings!

Hope this finds you well. It seems as though there have been a flurry of awards circulating the last couple of weeks here in blogworld. I am grateful and humbled to have received honors from a number of sweet friends.

If you're like me, you so appreciate the kindness with which these awards are given. If I can be completely honest, though...I much prefer being on the giving end of affirmation and awards than the receiving. My favorite part is always passing them along to others, and yet that presents a new dilemma all its own. What if in doing so, I hurt someone's feelings, or unintentionally overlook a sweet sister who is very deserving of one of these honors?

I pray you will understand the intent of my heart when I say I'm not going to chose individual recipients of these awards. I don't do so out of selfishness, but rather out of a heart that wishes to honor ALL of you. I'm grateful to God for each and every one of you, all of whom have enriched my life in some way. God has chosen to cross my path with yours at this time because He knows I need what you have to share. He is so good to me through you!!!

I do want to express special thanks to those of you who shared these awards. If any of these sisters are unknown to you, please make it a point to stop by their blogs. You WILL be blessed!

To my gracious friend, Nancie of More than Conquerors, who recently shared the Gratitude with Attitude Award and later the Friendship Award...thank you precious friend. You may be far away in distance, but your impact on the hearts of those of us in blogworld seems to know no limits! Nancie has a definite gift of loving and encouraging others with her kind words and sweet prayers. She has brightened many days with her caring heart.

Thank you also to Jenelle from Life in the Woods, E-Mom from Chrysalis and Peggy from Mazes, Messes, Miracles...aMazing Grace for the Brilliante Weblog Award.

Jenelle is a sweet young stay-at-home Mom of an ADORABLE little man, Colter. Her blog is a delightful mixture of real life, humor, loads of great photography and inspiration. Visits to her never fail to bring a smile.

E-Mom's blog is filled (and I mean filled) with an amazing array of resources...from marriage, parenting, politics and countless other topics through an evangelical Christian world view. Her blog is truly like a mini news network for Christians. It's impossible to visit without learning something each and every time!

Peggy is a delightful soul who exuberantly worships the Lord! The time she invests in special offerings on her blog often staggers my mind! She is truly a woman devoted to the Lord, and she loves to encourage and bless her friends in Christ. A perfect example of one such offering was her 100th post. It was the most incredible, all-encompassing post I have ever seen. She shared verses, songs, video clips, prayer challenges, and then presented the "Sharing the Love" award to 100 blogs, complete with LINKS to each and every one! I was privileged to be among the recipients and I offer my thanks to her again today.

Again...if you read this blog, please consider yourself a recipient of all of the awards above!

Finally, I want to express thanks to my new friend Colored Heart at Clay in the Potter's Hand...she honored me recently with her own blog award which truly touched my heart. She and her beautiful family have an awesome ministry in the Phillipines, and she has yet another blog that is LOADED with incredible Christian resources, and a feast for the eyes, as well.

Thank you again for these special gifts! My life has been immeasurably blessed by the friends I have made in the blogging community. I pray God will bless you abundantly for your kindness!

Word-Filled Wednesday

2008-08-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

For more Word-Filled Wednesday posts,
join us at 160 Acre Woods!

Family Reunion

2008-08-12T19:58:00.011-04:00

This past Saturday was so much fun! You may remember I posted about my Grandparents, Walter & Elsie...well, this past Saturday was the reunion in Ohio with that side of our family. It's quite a large crew, and I hadn't seen them for several years, so it was especially sweet. As always, there were some who couldn't make it. I especially missed seeing my Grandpa and my Aunt and Uncle who currently take care of him in their home in Georgia. He's too frail to make such a long trip. (I also missed seeing my sweet Georgia cousins and their families!)

Brennan's girlfriend, Brianna "Breezy" came with us for the first time. She very sweetly commented she's never seen so many red-haired people in one place! (lol) This coming weekend, we have the reunion with Tom's side of the family! (And there are hardly any red-heads in that bunch!)

P.S. For my cousins or my sister, who might be reading this...I need to (once and for all) settle a long-standing family debate (lol)...it's official, Uncle Graddie says, I am his absolute favorite niece! ; )

Beth Moore - Final Portion

2008-08-10T08:18:00.008-04:00

Sorry for the delay in getting this posted...
(Continued from Thursday, 8/7)

(4) “Dig the Roots”

Our roots are as deep as we are convinced of God’s love for us. “Are we convinced?”

Ephesians 3:17- 19 That He would make His home in our hearts and we would trust him. Our roots would grow down into God’s love to keep us strong. That we would have the power to grasp how high, long, wide and deep is His love. And that we experience His love, even though we can’t fully understand it.

“I have to know that I know He loves me.” The words of Jesus Loves Me can carry you through great difficulty (loss of loved one, betrayal of your spouse, etc.)

2 Kings 19:29-31 “Take root below – bear fruit above.”

(5) “Stop the Choke”

Anxiety chokes the Word right out of us and keep us from maturing in our faith.

Phil 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but with prayer and thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.

The cure for anxiety is prayer! We need to be Warriors not worriers! We can have that peace. He will release us if we trust – tell Him we claim the promises He gives! (She shared that God completely restored her thought process, her sanity.)

So often we insist on a life of “feeling good.” Will we so resist trials that we have no crowns to cast?

1 Cor. 1:5-7 God has spoken blessings over us; He has made us rich spiritually. Remain competently competent in the Word of God! (Those are true riches)

Romans 10:8 We need to keep His message close at hand -- on our lips and in our hearts.

Be genuine before others (no “performing”). Hear and Retain the Word in a good, and noble, persevering heart. Noble (Gr. “Kalos”) meaning beautiful, harmonious. Good (Gr. “Agathos”) beneficial. We are here to be a benefit! (to share Christ, serve, disciple and encourage others).

Phil. 2:17-pour yourself out as a drink offering for others for Him!

Be glad about it! We can survive and thrive! We do not have to live in defeat as emotional disasters.

Start your day in the Word…our capacity of hearing from God in the morning is supernatural. (Eccles. 11:6 & Isaiah 50:4-5)

We need to think of PMS as “Please more Spirit!”

(6) “Retain the Word”

Retain (Gr. “kateche”) meaning to hold in a vice grip; to possess with.

Always pray before reading the Word. Ask God to fill you with His Spirit. Then ask Him to raise a specific word or phrase that resonates in your life. Meditate on it that day. Sometimes He will give you “Daily Words.” Other times He will give you “Destiny Words.” Press your hand over your heart so that you can retain it there! (She writes scriptures on index cards and places them where she will see them.) Continuously learn both New and Old testament scripture! (Recommends "Daily Light" by Anne Graham Lotz)

(7) “Press Forth to Your 100-Fold Harvest!”
We are in a culture of “now,” but harvest doesn’t work that way. We have to sow it, wait, and sometimes even water it with our tears. It’s normal in the midst of a long obedience to be tired, worn out and want to quit. Hang in there, press through the discouragement. Harvest takes time, but you will persevere in His strength!

Heb. 11:2-3; Rev. 10:5-7 There is a day coming when we’ll know all the answers. We’ll know He was right and faithful.

Until that time, we are to tell the knowledge of the secrets we know! It doesn’t matter where you come from, what kind of background you have, every one of us can be a woman of spiritual substance and means!

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *
It's been impossible to share these notes with you without feeling their impact afresh. For those who, like me, were privileged to attend, I pray God has spoken afresh to your heart as well. For those who were unable to attend, I pray that the power of these insights has not been lost in translation. If you are unfamiliar with Beth Moore's ministry, take a moment to visit her site. There you will find all sorts of information about her Bible studies, books, speaking engagements, etc.

More Beth Moore...

2008-08-07T08:01:00.006-04:00

As promised, here are some additional insights from the Living Proof Simulcast...

You may remember, her overriding message was based on the parable of the sower (Luke 8:1-15), and was entitled "100-Fold Word"

First, we must increase our confidence and competence in His Word (the seed), so that it can have Maximum Impact in our Lives!

Gen 26:12 – Isaac reaped 100 fold because the Lord blessed him.
Gal. 3:29 – We are Abraham's seed, we have been called as a blessing of God!
Mark 10:29-30 - Anything we suffer or lose for God’s sake will return to us 100 fold!

“Just Do the Thing”
Hosea 10:12 – Break up your unplowed ground for it is time to seek the Lord until He comes and showers righteousness on you…
What have I never let God touch and change in my life?
What if I were to let Him!?

So how do we begin to allow God to work in us for 100 Fold Harvest?

(1) “Treasure the Wonder.” We need to recapture our wonder for the Word of God. Spiritual power is released when you read God’s word!

What makes for the closest relationships (with both God and others)?
The knowledge of secret, personal and intimate things. Secret (Gr. "mysterion") - meaning the revelation of the revelation (ongoing in nature). To those who want to receive, He shows them more and more. (Matthew 13:12) Scripture is the very breath of God. We need to breathe it in every day. Can’t go on last Sunday’s sermon for a month…we need a “now” word for today!

(2) “Protect your Heart.”
John 10:12,12 – He has come that we may have life and have it to the full.
Psalm 119:10,11 – We need to seek Him with all our hearts, as well as hide His Word in our hearts, so that we will keep his commands.

We need to fill our hearts with His Word and then firmly place our hand there to keep it. Faith, Deliverance and Freedom are inseparable. The time for obedience is now!

“When the season of testing exceeds the season of believing, we are headed toward a season of falling.”

(3) “Expect the Test”
When a profound Word comes – expect you will be tested. Testing (Gr. "Peirasmos") means both Trials and Temptation. Trials come from God to make you stand. Temptation comes from Satan to make you fall. The Word was meant to be applied when trials come! We must have Word abiding in us.
Whatever is not under authority, that is where we’re vulnerable to bondage and temptation.

Memorize 1 Cor. 10:13! Everyone has temptations, but God is faithful and will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can stand. He will ALWAYS give a way out. (Take it! Run!)

When you’re overwhelmed, call on the power of His Word. Desperation can be your best friend.

Psalm 126:5-6 Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy. This is a promise!

Water your dry times in the Word with your tears…it will return as fertile soil!

Psalm 105:17-22 He refines us and proves us true, genuine. God wants us to be real...that same person everywhere. Burn away the fake!

Come back for the final portion...

Word-Filled Wednesday

2008-08-06T08:20:00.005-04:00

This week's choice was inspired by the Living Proof Live Simulcast. (If you have a moment, check out some of the highlights in the post below.)

from Heartlight.org
To see other Word-Filled Wednesday posts,
join us at 160 Acre Woods!

Beyond Description!

2008-08-05T00:08:00.009-04:00

I’m still having a hard time trying to "sum up" the amazing blessings from the Beth Moore simulcast this weekend! I was invited by my long-time friend, Sue to join her and several other friends who were attending. These precious ladies didn't know me, but welcomed me with open arms (truly a blessing all its own!)

We were blessed to be among the 70,000 women overwhelmed by God's unmistakable presence this weekend! You may have already heard, the simulcast was shared in 715 locations (representing 49 states and 4 countries)! (Wow!)

Incredible praise and worship by Travis Cottrell and his team prepared our hearts beautifully for the rich teaching that was to follow, both Friday and Saturday.

All of Beth's messages centered around the parable of the four soils in Luke 8, but it certainly didn’t remain there. (We were all over that Bible!) I’m not kidding when I tell you I’ve never taken notes faster. I didn’t want to miss a single thing the Lord had for me. If you've ever attended a Beth Moore conference, or even a simulcast, you know there is so much information, it's hard to even begin to summarize or describe it. I've decided for now, just to share a few highlights. These were the things on my notes that were marked "*" or "!!"

On having "Maximum Impact and receiving a 100-fold harvest..." She was not referring to 100-fold harvest in the "prosperity sense." She reiterated 100 "fold," not 100 "folk." Harvest doesn't mean serving more people. (Jesus had only 12 disciples!) She urged us to forget about the numbers and just do the thing God is calling us to. God wants my faithfulness in the now, where He has me, at this time. When He has my faithfulness, he promises to return it 100-fold! (Mark 10:29-30)

God has made us "Competently Competent"
She shared 2 Timothy 3:16-17:
"All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching,
rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that
the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every
good work."

She reiterated by giving us the Greek translation of the phrase "thoroughly equipped." Thoroughly (Gr. "artios") means now, just now, complete, sufficient, competent. Equipped (Gr. "exarizo") means essentially the same, although expressed in a more intensive way. Both come from the same root word. Put another way, He has made us "competently competent" to do that which He's called us to do, but only through the power of His Word!

We can't wait! When God places a desire within us to do something, He not only makes us competently competent, He simultaneously gives us the power of obedience at that moment to do it. (NOW!) Waiting only serves to give Satan the opportunity to begin planting doubts, fears, discouragement. (Isaiah 55:10-12)

God's Word never lays idle within us, even in the seemingly "dry seasons." It is always at work. When we don't cooperate, "fires" will come to "burn the fake out of us," and make us genuine. (Psalm 105:17-22)

Anxiety at its root, is our desire to maintain control! What you're going through is not just about you! He will birth your passion from your pain. (Philippians 2:17) She asked "Will we so resist difficulty that we'll have no crowns to cast?"

The importance of sowing God's word in our hearts in the morning. Whether we're "morning people" or not, our capacity for hearing from God in the morning is supernatural. (Eccles. 11:6, Isaiah 50:4-5) What a difference when the first influence of our day comes from God's Word, before the distractions and worries of our day have the opportunity to crowd out His voice!)

As I look upon pages and pages of notes, there is much more I'd like to share. I hope to do so by later this week. Meanwhile, I pray these initial insights have challenged and encouraged you, as they did me! Be blessed.