Thursday, July 31, 2008
Permeation
We have a common laugh (all in fun...)at work about a customer who uses the wrong words sometimes. One time she meant to say presentation but it came out "permeation" - we have no idea how the two are related! We now pass this word around the middle of conversations for a laugh or two. But, this word came to me the last two Sundays during worship service. The music was so incredible, I could feel it. I love our praise group - they are so awesome. The music is not only fantastic but it really PERMEATES! When you sing or even listen to them play, do you simply sing and listen or do you really open your heart and let yourself feel it? I close my eyes and sometimes stop singing so that I can just feel it. Now, I will clap along and get excited when Chris roars out "I am Free!" but when he croons something like "Cry Out to Jesus," I close my eyes, internalize the words and really physically and emotionally feel them. Most of the time I will stand there and cry, thinking about the blessings I have received. The music is powerful - given to us with full faith and dedication - a true devotion. Thank you to Center Pointe's most-terrific Praise Team for giving us the chance to really feel the music.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Enabling
The word enable has a positive connotation - you make it possible for something to happen. But, more and more we hear the word used negatively, especially when it comes to parents and their kids.
I spent some time on the phone last night with a dear friend, someone who has the biggest heart that I know - cares for everyone and anyone in any time of need. I adore her and her family. And she always keeps her life on the path with Christ. She and her husband had to make a really tough decision and although I had heard a little about what they had been going through, as she told me, tears rolled down my face. It was a good decision, but so so tough. We talked about the situation and of course, as parents, how when something goes wrong with our kids, we first blame ourselves and I guess most try to do whatever they can to make it better. When they are little, it is easy to give a popsicle to your son or daughter to make them feel better after falling and scraping their knee. When they are teenagers though, when they run into trouble, that popsicle can easily turn into money, television, car, etc. You don't want to see them doing without, hurting, or upset. And here lies the difficulty - where do you draw the line? How much should do or not do? Where is the line between caring for them and "enabling" them on their downward spiral of destruction? It is so hard emotionally to see your child struggle but how much should you help? How much is too much? I don't know.
The easiest thing to do is sit back and watch someone else struggling and say that you would have done "this" or "that" and prevented the situation. It sure isn't that easy. "If they had only..." It just doesn't always work that way. Dave and I have had to deal with 5 teenagers, each with their own personalities and issues. Of course we love our children more than anything so the most difficult part has been knowing when enough is enough. How much do you give? Throughout our relationship, we have been overjoyed, proud, scared, angry, and really any other emotion you can think of. But even after all of these years of experience, we still don't have the answers and it is a daily struggle. Am I helping or enabling?
We have to remember that through it all, God is watching them. Prayer is the best method we have to protect them. When they are ready, He will be there.
We all want to see our kids smiling and thriving, no matter how old they are. But we have to let them struggle some, right? I guess everyone always want more and better for their kids. But sometimes, there just aren't enough popsicles.
I spent some time on the phone last night with a dear friend, someone who has the biggest heart that I know - cares for everyone and anyone in any time of need. I adore her and her family. And she always keeps her life on the path with Christ. She and her husband had to make a really tough decision and although I had heard a little about what they had been going through, as she told me, tears rolled down my face. It was a good decision, but so so tough. We talked about the situation and of course, as parents, how when something goes wrong with our kids, we first blame ourselves and I guess most try to do whatever they can to make it better. When they are little, it is easy to give a popsicle to your son or daughter to make them feel better after falling and scraping their knee. When they are teenagers though, when they run into trouble, that popsicle can easily turn into money, television, car, etc. You don't want to see them doing without, hurting, or upset. And here lies the difficulty - where do you draw the line? How much should do or not do? Where is the line between caring for them and "enabling" them on their downward spiral of destruction? It is so hard emotionally to see your child struggle but how much should you help? How much is too much? I don't know.
The easiest thing to do is sit back and watch someone else struggling and say that you would have done "this" or "that" and prevented the situation. It sure isn't that easy. "If they had only..." It just doesn't always work that way. Dave and I have had to deal with 5 teenagers, each with their own personalities and issues. Of course we love our children more than anything so the most difficult part has been knowing when enough is enough. How much do you give? Throughout our relationship, we have been overjoyed, proud, scared, angry, and really any other emotion you can think of. But even after all of these years of experience, we still don't have the answers and it is a daily struggle. Am I helping or enabling?
We have to remember that through it all, God is watching them. Prayer is the best method we have to protect them. When they are ready, He will be there.
We all want to see our kids smiling and thriving, no matter how old they are. But we have to let them struggle some, right? I guess everyone always want more and better for their kids. But sometimes, there just aren't enough popsicles.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Normalcy...sort of
The Fair has come and gone so my family can now get back to a little bit of normalcy...sort of. We are all still busy with different things but with the fair out of the way, the hype has died down some.
I have to brag "a little" on the kid =) She was awesome! Her horse was still feeling a little sore so Erin couldn't compete in the jumping classes but she shined in the rest. Take a look:
One of the downfalls of this year's fair is that I missed our wonderful VBS program. I didn't want to miss but for safety, I insist on being at all of Erin's shows. I witnessed two incidents this year that confirms my concern. Two different girls were hurt during the show and had to be taken by ambulance to the hospital. God was looking after these kids! One girl flipped over and over and twisted her neck but she had no injuries, just bumped and bruised. The other young girl's horse reared and then flipped and fell on her. That was terrifying and brought tears to my eyes! But, once again, no injuries! There is no doubt that God had his hand on both of these young riders, protecting them. Thankfully Erin's horse is fairly mild tempered so we don't worry too much about Erin getting thrown - but then again, these girls probably felt that same way.
We made it through safely and without any issues - unless you consider sunburnt lips an issue...I qualify for that =)
I have to brag "a little" on the kid =) She was awesome! Her horse was still feeling a little sore so Erin couldn't compete in the jumping classes but she shined in the rest. Take a look:
One of the downfalls of this year's fair is that I missed our wonderful VBS program. I didn't want to miss but for safety, I insist on being at all of Erin's shows. I witnessed two incidents this year that confirms my concern. Two different girls were hurt during the show and had to be taken by ambulance to the hospital. God was looking after these kids! One girl flipped over and over and twisted her neck but she had no injuries, just bumped and bruised. The other young girl's horse reared and then flipped and fell on her. That was terrifying and brought tears to my eyes! But, once again, no injuries! There is no doubt that God had his hand on both of these young riders, protecting them. Thankfully Erin's horse is fairly mild tempered so we don't worry too much about Erin getting thrown - but then again, these girls probably felt that same way.
We made it through safely and without any issues - unless you consider sunburnt lips an issue...I qualify for that =)
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Whew!
I admit it - I am tired. Maybe on the verge of exhaustion -- but with a smile! Our block party has come and gone...and WOW! What a great day! Kids were everywhere eating, drinking, bouncing, tossing balls, and best of all - smiling and laughing. )and running on their tiptoes across the hot pavement if barefooted) It was hot but the community came and enjoyed. It was so amazing to look up and see new faces coming towards us and to be able to share our excitement and enthusiasm about Jesus with them.
We were a little disappointed that the dunking booth didn't appear after all the fun we had with the poll, but the disappointment was lessened when the hula dancers arrived! What fun! I am so impressed with the guys - they stepped up and learned to "hula hula" all the way to huka kuka. (pictures to come...) And they were pretty good!
Thank you Thank you Thank you to everyone who braved the heat to help with festival. You were there and that made all the difference.
Now, we prepare for VBS which is going to be just as grand and just as much fun if not more! Wouldn't it be awesome to see the kids lined up all the way out the door waiting to register? The more kids we reach the more kids learn about the incredible power of the Lord.
Children's church was wonderful today, of course =) We talked about Jesus healing the blind man and then played a few games that included a blindfold. We had snacks (popcorn and goldfish - go figure) and during the whole time, the kids were absolutely great. Thank you to all the kids and to everyone that helped today! Keeping the noise down to a small roar is sometimes a challenge when our room is full but today it was seamless going from activity to activity. Kudos to you all!
Now, we also are preparing for a week at the fair. Soda is in place and the stall all decked-out. The horse show begins on Tuesday and lasts until Friday. Erin will be showing on Tuesday and Wednesday (all day) and then Thursday morning (if not all day again.) Friday is contesting day...barrel racing, flags, etc. I prefer she not participate in those as I have seen too many kids fall off during those events. It is scary enough at a slow pace - forget the racing! Pray for all the kids to be safe this week. Mix the heat with nerves in anticipation and it can be intense. Horses are very sensitive to the riders' emotions and undoubtedly, the riders are dealing with some anxiety.
It may seem a little early but I am tired and ready for bed. =)
We were a little disappointed that the dunking booth didn't appear after all the fun we had with the poll, but the disappointment was lessened when the hula dancers arrived! What fun! I am so impressed with the guys - they stepped up and learned to "hula hula" all the way to huka kuka. (pictures to come...) And they were pretty good!
Thank you Thank you Thank you to everyone who braved the heat to help with festival. You were there and that made all the difference.
Now, we prepare for VBS which is going to be just as grand and just as much fun if not more! Wouldn't it be awesome to see the kids lined up all the way out the door waiting to register? The more kids we reach the more kids learn about the incredible power of the Lord.
Children's church was wonderful today, of course =) We talked about Jesus healing the blind man and then played a few games that included a blindfold. We had snacks (popcorn and goldfish - go figure) and during the whole time, the kids were absolutely great. Thank you to all the kids and to everyone that helped today! Keeping the noise down to a small roar is sometimes a challenge when our room is full but today it was seamless going from activity to activity. Kudos to you all!
Now, we also are preparing for a week at the fair. Soda is in place and the stall all decked-out. The horse show begins on Tuesday and lasts until Friday. Erin will be showing on Tuesday and Wednesday (all day) and then Thursday morning (if not all day again.) Friday is contesting day...barrel racing, flags, etc. I prefer she not participate in those as I have seen too many kids fall off during those events. It is scary enough at a slow pace - forget the racing! Pray for all the kids to be safe this week. Mix the heat with nerves in anticipation and it can be intense. Horses are very sensitive to the riders' emotions and undoubtedly, the riders are dealing with some anxiety.
It may seem a little early but I am tired and ready for bed. =)
Friday, July 18, 2008
Pumped Up!
Dave just called and said..."Less than 24 hours now!" Oh, I know it! I am so excited but all of a sudden feeling a little overwhelmed. I have little cards to give out and other things but is it enough? Do we need...? Do we have...? I know that everything will be fine and everyone will have a wonderful time but that "perfectionist" in me rears sometimes making me feel like I should be doing more. It will pass =) This is the time when I realize that I need to have more faith. We've done the work! Now let's bring it all together.
Congratulations to Scott! I have been watching the poll today and it looks like you are the man! Now, who else? We'll see!
The missions group will be here and setting up for VBS on Sunday. Not sure what help they will need but knowing our group, they'll have more than they need. And more laughs and fun than anticipated.
Update on the horse: In the words of our daughter - She is fantastic! On top of tomorrow, we are also getting ready to spend many many hours at the fair next week. I make it sound like a chore because, well, it is. But it also entails funnel cakes, footlongs, caramel apples, and salt water taffy. Yummmm.
See you at the party!
Congratulations to Scott! I have been watching the poll today and it looks like you are the man! Now, who else? We'll see!
The missions group will be here and setting up for VBS on Sunday. Not sure what help they will need but knowing our group, they'll have more than they need. And more laughs and fun than anticipated.
Update on the horse: In the words of our daughter - She is fantastic! On top of tomorrow, we are also getting ready to spend many many hours at the fair next week. I make it sound like a chore because, well, it is. But it also entails funnel cakes, footlongs, caramel apples, and salt water taffy. Yummmm.
See you at the party!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Relief!
Yesterday was a little rough. First, we were concerned about our daughter's horse, Soda - One week before the biggest show of the year (fair) and she was limping. Soda contracted a virus earlier this year, EPM, and unfortunately it is one of those that could have lasting effects which includes weaknesses in the nervous system - problems with coordination. The vet came to see her and the great news is that has a muscle strain in her shoulder which can be relieved through rest and medication - and she'll be fine by next week! Yeah! Erin (all of us) were so relieved. I think I am most proud of her for being so concerned about Soda's well being rather than the fair show. I said to her that I was glad she would get to show and she said..."I don't care, as long as she is okay."
Next, migraine hit me hard yesterday afternoon! I don't remember ever feeling so bad. Thank goodness Dave was there to assist or I don't think I would have made it home! A little bit better today...
If anyone would like to lend some support for Erin at the fair, she will be showing next Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at the Clermont County Fairgrounds. The Junior Fair Horse show is so awesome - I had no idea until Erin was involved. I think because it is mostly during the daytime (although it extends into the evening hours as well) and is held towards the rear of the grounds that people don't realize it is there. It is a great show though so if you have time to watch, bring a chair and sit with us under our canopy. Expect about 100 kids with horses to enter the ring!
Scott...you have really gained some momentum! Wow! =-)
Next, migraine hit me hard yesterday afternoon! I don't remember ever feeling so bad. Thank goodness Dave was there to assist or I don't think I would have made it home! A little bit better today...
If anyone would like to lend some support for Erin at the fair, she will be showing next Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at the Clermont County Fairgrounds. The Junior Fair Horse show is so awesome - I had no idea until Erin was involved. I think because it is mostly during the daytime (although it extends into the evening hours as well) and is held towards the rear of the grounds that people don't realize it is there. It is a great show though so if you have time to watch, bring a chair and sit with us under our canopy. Expect about 100 kids with horses to enter the ring!
Scott...you have really gained some momentum! Wow! =-)
Monday, July 14, 2008
Getting Closer
Sunday was exciting and rowdy with the kids. We "rowed" our boat out into the sea, got hit with overwhelming waves and rain and wind - then were blessed with the ultimate protection of Jesus. There are some future oscar winners in this group! Kids were being thrown "overboard" and splashed with salty sea water. It was wonderful to see them getting into the story like that.
I think I have found a trend growing though -- as we are going through the lesson, the question keeps popping up of when they get to pick something from my "prize" box. This was something I started as a reward for the end of class and has been a big hit for remembering certain things from class - they whisper the answer to me and get to choose a small gift. I still make them wait until then end though. =)
Last night was amazing! We (Dave, Erin, and I) hung out at the Smith/Simpson small groups meeting. During and after church it usually a little more-than-hectic so to get to sit and talk with everyone was incredible. Scott and Diana - you guys ROCK for having all of us to your home. We had a great time and the kids had a great time. What a great group!
The festivities are getting closer! Are we getting the "word" out? Any spottings? We (Dave and I) tried yesterday while we were working with the Jr. Fair at the Clermont County Fairgrounds but everyone there had the same answer: We'll be here next Saturday... There's no reason they can't take a break and have a little bit of "free" fun though, right? We tried and we'll keep trying.
We (many others) have also placed announcements with KLove, 93.3, cincinnnati.com, wkrc, wlwt...hopefully it will show up on these places. If you see any, let me know. Signs will be ready soon to put near the intersection of S.R. 28. And, there are more flyers, posters available. Let me know if you want more and I will find a way to get them to you. The more people we reach, the more people we can get excited about Jesus!
Also, did you notice how close the votes for the dunking booth are getting? Guys, just think of it as the ultimate flattery! Chris stepped up during church service and agreed to take a turn. And Scott...he agreed to wear a pretty floral hawaiian bikini top - We have witnesses! (and we'll definitely have cameras) It is going to be great! Jeremy has promised to wear his best suit for the occasion - we didn't even have to pressure him! Pastor Ray - well, I think it is just expected now... =)
I think I have found a trend growing though -- as we are going through the lesson, the question keeps popping up of when they get to pick something from my "prize" box. This was something I started as a reward for the end of class and has been a big hit for remembering certain things from class - they whisper the answer to me and get to choose a small gift. I still make them wait until then end though. =)
Last night was amazing! We (Dave, Erin, and I) hung out at the Smith/Simpson small groups meeting. During and after church it usually a little more-than-hectic so to get to sit and talk with everyone was incredible. Scott and Diana - you guys ROCK for having all of us to your home. We had a great time and the kids had a great time. What a great group!
The festivities are getting closer! Are we getting the "word" out? Any spottings? We (Dave and I) tried yesterday while we were working with the Jr. Fair at the Clermont County Fairgrounds but everyone there had the same answer: We'll be here next Saturday... There's no reason they can't take a break and have a little bit of "free" fun though, right? We tried and we'll keep trying.
We (many others) have also placed announcements with KLove, 93.3, cincinnnati.com, wkrc, wlwt...hopefully it will show up on these places. If you see any, let me know. Signs will be ready soon to put near the intersection of S.R. 28. And, there are more flyers, posters available. Let me know if you want more and I will find a way to get them to you. The more people we reach, the more people we can get excited about Jesus!
Also, did you notice how close the votes for the dunking booth are getting? Guys, just think of it as the ultimate flattery! Chris stepped up during church service and agreed to take a turn. And Scott...he agreed to wear a pretty floral hawaiian bikini top - We have witnesses! (and we'll definitely have cameras) It is going to be great! Jeremy has promised to wear his best suit for the occasion - we didn't even have to pressure him! Pastor Ray - well, I think it is just expected now... =)
Friday, July 11, 2008
Sign-ups for Saturday, July 19
It's time to ask...for volunteers! We will need people to oversee the events on Saturday. Here's a list of areas in which we need volunteers:
- Bounce Houses (2)
- Jousting
- Dunking Booth (overseeing and sitting)
- Duck Pond
- Other Games (?)
- Food Table (at least 2)
- Craft Table (at least 2)
- Fish Pond (got it covered!)
Please let me know if you can help in any of these events. It would be great if we could all switch-off and have times for breaks..so the more the better!
I have put in a phone call for a "Surprise" event - details to come but it could be awesome!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Votes seem a little one- (or two) sided...
Of course, the nominees for the dunking booth are simply here for fun...but it may pursuade some of our finest to go for gold! No pressure guys...just because you might be disappointing your biggest fans...that's no reason to step up (or sit down...) Again, this is just for fun, no committments yet! I admit that I might be pursuaded, but I would need lots of encouragement ...and sunscreen. Anybody else? =)
Tonight the posters, flyers, and doorknockers will be ready to hand out to anyone who is willing to hang some up and around the neighborhoods. I will also have these available on Sunday morning so if you can't make it tonight, pick some up Sunday! The only extra work needed will be cutting out the doorknockers - I will be at the church tonight working on those as well.
I received pictures from another church that participated in the Outrigger Island VBS theme. So creative! Giant sand castles made of cardboard, palm trees and beach scenes. Of course, we won't have to worry so much about that as we are so fortunate to have the missions group taking care of the decorations as well as everything else for us. But if we want to decorate some for the Saturday fest, here is the website with ideas. Lifeway VBS Let me know if you see something you think is "do-able" and we can work together to make it happen!
So my car is finished - but we have no idea what went wrong. The mechanic called and left a message stating it is finished - nothing else. He didn't call to tell us what was wrong, how much, when it could be done, or how much. Since it was such a short period of time, I am really hoping that it was something small. Boy, am I hoping. We just had to have our other vehicle repaired so two within one month is a little bit of a strain. Ok, its a lot of strain!
Chris has inspired me to begin reading the Bible every day. (Yes, guilt works well on me.) I have made it to Kings in the past so that is where I will restart. Dave started his journey already so I will have to try to keep up with him.
Back to designing and printing posters and brainstorming for more ideas! Keep praying and thinking about all of our upcoming events and opportunities for Center Pointe. We have such a wonderful group of friends and family - you are all so awesome! Let's all work to get the people around us as excited as we are about the Lord!
Tonight the posters, flyers, and doorknockers will be ready to hand out to anyone who is willing to hang some up and around the neighborhoods. I will also have these available on Sunday morning so if you can't make it tonight, pick some up Sunday! The only extra work needed will be cutting out the doorknockers - I will be at the church tonight working on those as well.
I received pictures from another church that participated in the Outrigger Island VBS theme. So creative! Giant sand castles made of cardboard, palm trees and beach scenes. Of course, we won't have to worry so much about that as we are so fortunate to have the missions group taking care of the decorations as well as everything else for us. But if we want to decorate some for the Saturday fest, here is the website with ideas. Lifeway VBS Let me know if you see something you think is "do-able" and we can work together to make it happen!
So my car is finished - but we have no idea what went wrong. The mechanic called and left a message stating it is finished - nothing else. He didn't call to tell us what was wrong, how much, when it could be done, or how much. Since it was such a short period of time, I am really hoping that it was something small. Boy, am I hoping. We just had to have our other vehicle repaired so two within one month is a little bit of a strain. Ok, its a lot of strain!
Chris has inspired me to begin reading the Bible every day. (Yes, guilt works well on me.) I have made it to Kings in the past so that is where I will restart. Dave started his journey already so I will have to try to keep up with him.
Back to designing and printing posters and brainstorming for more ideas! Keep praying and thinking about all of our upcoming events and opportunities for Center Pointe. We have such a wonderful group of friends and family - you are all so awesome! Let's all work to get the people around us as excited as we are about the Lord!
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Excitement is BUILDING!!
Even after yesterday's issues and little sleep, today I am re-energized and full of excitement! I am pumped-up for the Block Party and VBS! I love the theme - Outrigger Island. With such bright colors you just can't help but smile and feel the energy. (Although I think Jen was having a little bit too much fun with the paint last evening - wish we had pictures! hehe) We barely had the sign up to promote Saturday's festivites when people were stopping to read it! How awesome!
So I still say Bring it On! We are going to need volunteers for Saturday and the following week's VBS. If you can help, let someone know! There are plenty of opportunities and maybe you have exactly what is needed. Areas in which you can help on Saturday, July 19: Food, Bounce Houses, handouts, games, crafts...anywhere! Setting up...taking down. Oh yeah, we also need volunteers for the Dunking Booth...any takers? =)
Don't forget, this Thursday flyers will be available at the church @ 7:00. I will have flyers, posters, postcards and....(drumroll)....Door Knocker (hangers). So come and pick some up and let's get the word out.
So I still say Bring it On! We are going to need volunteers for Saturday and the following week's VBS. If you can help, let someone know! There are plenty of opportunities and maybe you have exactly what is needed. Areas in which you can help on Saturday, July 19: Food, Bounce Houses, handouts, games, crafts...anywhere! Setting up...taking down. Oh yeah, we also need volunteers for the Dunking Booth...any takers? =)
Don't forget, this Thursday flyers will be available at the church @ 7:00. I will have flyers, posters, postcards and....(drumroll)....Door Knocker (hangers). So come and pick some up and let's get the word out.
Monday, July 7, 2008
When I first began posting here, one of my intentions was to keep a public "track" of all the times other people have made me stop and say "Wow!" Those times I have had people be kind to me or someone else - I am so thankful for these incidents. They inspire me - this is when I am reminded that God is always working hard on us.
Today, unfortunately, was one of those challenging days that you wish to just be over. After a night of not much sleep and a morning of a lot of deep breaths and reciting Philipians 4:6-7, I made my way to my destination (Domestic Relations court in Brown Co...) On the way there..."BEEEEEEEP" I look down at my dashboard and there is the little battery light shining back at me. Of all days for this to happen (another deep breath please!)
I call Dave...what do I do? Battery, alternator - is it overheating? No. Nothing much to do except hope I can make it to Georgetown and then call if something else happens. After the hearing (continuance - waste of time, btw), car starts (whew) and I head back home. Almost home, that "something" happens. I exit the highway in hopes of being able to pull off so it will be all better. Of course, that didn't happen! So, a tow truck, $70, and a crowded ride to a repair shop ended the afternoon of events. Oh, and Dave came to our rescue (as always) at the repair shop.
While we were sitting along side of the road, I can't remember how many cars passed us by (many), but I do remember how many stopped to ask if we needed any help: Two. One lady asked if we were lost (I was trying to find the road sign to see exactly where we were) and then one gentleman asked if he could help. For all of those that went on by, the two that stopped made up for. I think people are generally afraid to stop - thinking it might be some kind of ruse to rob them. I am not sure how threatning my daughter and I appeared, especially with me in a long skirt and sweater, but I am sure someone was thinking...maybe they're robbers! lol
It was a challenging day but after taking a lot of deep breaths and saying a few thank you's to God for delivering us home safely, we are off to the church to help with events.
We should sleep well tonight! =)
Today, unfortunately, was one of those challenging days that you wish to just be over. After a night of not much sleep and a morning of a lot of deep breaths and reciting Philipians 4:6-7, I made my way to my destination (Domestic Relations court in Brown Co...) On the way there..."BEEEEEEEP" I look down at my dashboard and there is the little battery light shining back at me. Of all days for this to happen (another deep breath please!)
I call Dave...what do I do? Battery, alternator - is it overheating? No. Nothing much to do except hope I can make it to Georgetown and then call if something else happens. After the hearing (continuance - waste of time, btw), car starts (whew) and I head back home. Almost home, that "something" happens. I exit the highway in hopes of being able to pull off so it will be all better. Of course, that didn't happen! So, a tow truck, $70, and a crowded ride to a repair shop ended the afternoon of events. Oh, and Dave came to our rescue (as always) at the repair shop.
While we were sitting along side of the road, I can't remember how many cars passed us by (many), but I do remember how many stopped to ask if we needed any help: Two. One lady asked if we were lost (I was trying to find the road sign to see exactly where we were) and then one gentleman asked if he could help. For all of those that went on by, the two that stopped made up for. I think people are generally afraid to stop - thinking it might be some kind of ruse to rob them. I am not sure how threatning my daughter and I appeared, especially with me in a long skirt and sweater, but I am sure someone was thinking...maybe they're robbers! lol
It was a challenging day but after taking a lot of deep breaths and saying a few thank you's to God for delivering us home safely, we are off to the church to help with events.
We should sleep well tonight! =)
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Bring it on!
I was looking at my calendar yesterday, trying to plan ahead. With kids and pets, and life in general, sometimes I have to see it in writing. (Other times though, I get too organized and then become unorganized. Makes no sense, huh?)
But honestly, even before I write about what is going on, let me admit that the busier I am, the better I feel. Just ask my family how often I sit still long enough to watch a whole movie. They would probably just laugh because unless I am forced, it doesn't happen. DVR has become my favorite invention.
First -- and the most exciting part!! We (friends at Center Pointe) have been in the beginning stages of planning a huge community festival. It is so awesome to see people excited about reaching out to the Goshen community! We all thought it would have been so nice to have a regular VBS but between the timing and all, we put that as our goal for next year.
But honestly, even before I write about what is going on, let me admit that the busier I am, the better I feel. Just ask my family how often I sit still long enough to watch a whole movie. They would probably just laugh because unless I am forced, it doesn't happen. DVR has become my favorite invention.
First -- and the most exciting part!! We (friends at Center Pointe) have been in the beginning stages of planning a huge community festival. It is so awesome to see people excited about reaching out to the Goshen community! We all thought it would have been so nice to have a regular VBS but between the timing and all, we put that as our goal for next year.
Just as we are trying to figure out things for this festival, God stepped in and showed us His plans. Pastor Ray was contacted by Oliver Hawkins of the Cincinnati Baptist Association who said that a group was planning a VBS for another church but that had been cancelled...were we interested? Wow, are we ever! Bring it on! When Ray called me I didn't know what to say at first. Amazed and overwhelmed with just pure awe at the awesome'ness (my word for the day) of God. After I hung up the phone from Ray, I called Dave, of course, all excited and guess what...he already knew =) He said, I already volunteered to make sure the church was open every night for them. He still let me go on and on though.
So, everyone hold the date of July 19 for our big block community celebration (compliments of the Cincy Baptist Assoc) and then starting Monday (July 21) plan for all the children to enjoy a week's worth of fun, worship, and praise. It's going to be big and it’s going to be fantastic. Isn't God wonderful?
We do have other things going on this month, Clermont County Fair horse show, family reunion, etc. One bite at a time though. =)Tuesday, July 1, 2008
hand in hand...why?
I am so fortunate to be married to my best friend. When I have good news that I can't contain, I call Dave. When I have bad news that I need to share, I call Dave. If I have had a challenging day, I talk to Dave. He laughs with me, sighs with me, and even understands when I vent.
When we were married, the heading on our wedding announcement stated, "As my walk brings me closer to Christ, it is your hand I reach for along the way." All I have to do is reach out and hold his hand. So, through life we go, hand in hand. Ups, downs, and all-arounds...hand in hand.
When we were married, the heading on our wedding announcement stated, "As my walk brings me closer to Christ, it is your hand I reach for along the way." All I have to do is reach out and hold his hand. So, through life we go, hand in hand. Ups, downs, and all-arounds...hand in hand.
My Dave and his son, Dusty
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