Computer land joys and sorrows

Well, I am still experiencing computer woes. I am currently using my brothers laptop, which by the way is SLOW AS MOLASSES. I am getting used it it slowly. I should be thankful that I even have something to use at home, and not have to get bundled up and go to the library...Thanks Doug!

Talked to our youngest son tonight. It seems he is sick with a cold, but is hoping to come home for the weekend. Bless his little heart. That will make my weekend happier.

I am hoping to get all of my computer "work" done by Thursday if it's possible. I have a few devotionals that I need to ready for the web, and a couple that I have to edit that were sent to me to put on the web. We're hoping for a February 2 launch... we'll see.

I haven't shared one of our greatest joys in recent weeks. On January 11, our oldest son Micah was ordained at his church. We made the trek to Virginia a day earlier than planned due to a snowstorm coming to our area. We left at about 4 PM on the Friday before and got into town at about 10:15 that night. Despite the nasty weather. We stayed at the Executive Pastor's house (thanks again Jane and Kelley) and had a great time. On Sunday evening we gathered at the church along with the other pastors and support staff along with their families to watch, listen and pray.

It was so amazing to me to hear all of the things that were shared with Micah from those in attendance. I have always felt that way about my son, but to hear others say the encouraging things, and humbling things were amazing! Then to hear Micah share his testimony with everyone well... this mom was about to bust! The tears ran freely and the pride I felt was overwhelming. I am so blessed to know that my oldest son is serving God with his whole heart, and his job certainly shows it. I felt so honored that Pastor Gary and the rest of the pastors wanted to include us in this special event.

It is a big responsibility to your congregation to usher everyone into the presence of God. The pastor depends on people's hearts being prepared to hear the message they have prepared and are sharing. I have a couple of pictures I'd like to post. Here is Micah sharing his testimony, then the pastors and Jeff and myself all praying around Micah.there was a lovely celebration reception afterward in the cafe and fellowship hall where we all enjoyed wonderful goodies made by Terri D.(spelling), the Virginia version of NewPointe's "Queen Jean". All was wonderful, tasty and very encouraging.

Another really great thing about having been there was the fact that we got to meet several other people that we hadn't been able to meet on previous trips. Marilyn one of the administrative assistants, another admin by the name of Rosa, that will try to help Micah learn to delegate some of his duties. Marilyn seems to be a real kindred spirit and we shared a giggle or two at what God has been speaking to Micah for about the last 18 months. Sometimes God speaks things through other people that we have a hard time receiving. Right Marilyn? I'm still trusting the Lord for the last thing you mentioned to me about where God puts us.

Jane and Kelley we enjoyed our stay with you. We appreciate your kind words about Micah as well as the opportunity you gave to him to come to Cornerstone. I am so glad you asked Steph about a worship leader from IWU! Thanks for opening your home to us, for sharing your hi def TV and "24"with us. It was a lot of fun.

Pastor Gary and Terri, thank you for your loving words and sensitivity, and including Jeff and I in all of this. It was nice to meet the rest of your family this trip. We look forward to many visits in the future.

Moving on to other blessings.

I mentioned that our son, Jordan, was going on a missions trip to Africa in May, and that he needed to raise $4200 for the trip. Well bless God the money has come through, and he's thrilled. What an amazing God we serve! Thanks to all of you that have so generously shared with him. We would ask that you continue to pray for him and for the trip.

I think I'll end it here before this turns "novelish."

Computer insanity or just me?

I have discovered that if you are not already insane before you TRY to wipe your computer clean of malware, you will be before the process is done! I am still trying to fix things on this STUPID computer. Everything seems to be working ok except for the monitor. I look at pictures on here, and everyone and everything looks like it is in negative mode. (like I am looking at a photo negative) Yet, on my outlook everything is fine. Can anyone that is computer literate explain that to me ????? PLEASE!

I am losing patience.

I am getting old.

Only 10 days before I hit "49". I think a lot of those days I feel more like "94". I cannot say that 50 looks overly attractive. Ugh. Although I am on the way to being healthier than I have been in years, not to mention much lighter, I still struggle. My life is not quite on the path that I thought it would be.

I have decided and claim that this is the year that I am going to let God "take my heart by surprise." Yes, I have come to the conclusion that I will not try to tell God what I want, and that I will let Him do what He wants in me. Sounds simple right? Not exactly. I like being in control. I like having my ducks in a row (even if my row is a bit cluttered) I am a list maker, a planner. I HAVE to know what is going to happen, a schedule, have a map or directions. I tend to get into God's way and not let Him do things in my life because I always have to know.

I have been hugely surprised that since November when I spoke at the Moravian Women's Conference, I have been invited to share with Hiland schools 7th grade girls and their moms. Sharon Conservative Mennonite Church (2 weeks ago), United Dayspring Mennonite church (this Sunday night) St. Joseph Catholic church (during Lenten season) , and Jerusalem Church (April 23) Why now? Why me?

Perhaps it's taken God this long because I stood in His way?

I am trying to step aside, and that my friends is why this year is taking the direction that it is.

Surprise me God!

Broken computer

I truly haven't fallen off the face of the earth. I don't have a working computer. I am currently sitting in the public library writing this, just so you know I'm still here. It is an amazing thing to realize just how important it is to communicate to others via the computer. I am feeling rather "out of the loop." I am headed out to buy the needed things to get up and running again, so hopefully I'll be back in the saddle again soon.

I'll see you all soon!

Happy New Year

Can you believe it it's 2009?

Amazing.

When I thought about the date being in the 21st century way back when I was a kid it seemed like it would have to be like the Jetsons. All space-agey and stuff. Then when I would think about how old I would be...oh my!

Well, yes I feel "old as dirt"...some days! As I have told a few of my friends "this is the oldest I have ever been!" Yes, in less than a month I will see my 49th Birthday,UGH. I don't cherish the thought of 50 being just around the bend. Not that I want to miss my 50th, but I guess when you think about it, it is a win-win situation. To live is Christ (good) and to die is to gain! I'm not being morbid, I'm being realistic! If you know where you are spending eternity, you'll certainly understand.

Recently I read (in my daily read Bible) that in Malachi (Old Testament) God turned down the sacrifices that were being offered to Him because they weren't the "best that they had" they were often blind or wounded animals. God was very explicit when He told His children what they were to offer to God as sacrifices.

Well, that got me to thinking about what I offer to God. I know that since Jesus was the living sacrifice that we no longer have to sacrifice animals on an alter to our God. But what I started to think about is what do I personally give to God? Do I give Him my best? Or am I offering Him my "half hearted" sacrifice? Sort of like a blind animal or wounded. Sometimes I feel wounded, and I guess when I offer myself to Him fully, no matter how I feel, that is the only thing I have to give Him. Have you ever thought about that? Have you ever wondered what God thinks about what you give Him?????

I have a terrible problem about having "clutter in my life." I have written about my organizing abilities that sadly lack. So, as my husband has pointed out, if you just do one or two things it won't overwhelm you. So the day after Christmas I began to clean out my kitchen cupboards. Not because I wanted to look like I was organized. It was really out of necessity. When I went to put away dishes that I don't use very often, I couldn't fit them into the cupboard they came out of. So, I decided to clean it out. then that cupboard led to another...and another...and so on. The last cupboard that I did was probably the one that needed it first. My spice cupboard. I love to use spices, and It is a healthy alternative to many unhealthy things. Although you took your life in your hands when you opened the cupboard door. You had to back up to not get hit with falling bottles! Well, I have made a sacrifice of my time (for not only God, but for my family and myself) Here is proof! My youngest son, Chris also did some repair work and we had to put up brackets to hold the shelves from warping. The shelf it warped up now instead of down as we flipped it over after the repairs. God bless Chris. He was right there cheering me on and offered his help in bracing it up!

So, now I have closets that need re-organized. A laundry room to re-do. The basement to finish ...and so on. I don't want to drive myself bonkers. But I want to be able to tell God that I used my time wisely!

Today we also cut up our third deer. Chris got two, I got one. Jeff and Chris skinned it, quartered it, then cut it off the bone. I cleaned all of the "silver and nasty stuff off. The guys started at about 11 AM, and they finished at about 3 PM. I started my part at 3 PM and finished about 6PM. I'm tired... But it will be so nice when we get the summer sausage, and deer sticks back from the processor. We have roasts, steaks and tenderloins all ready in the freezer, so we should be set for a while. I'll need chicken and turkey, but beef, and deer we have!

I also helped Jordan make Thank You notes for Jordan to send out. He is trying to raise money to go on a trip to Zambia. He needs $4200.00 and is almost half way there! He has to do this trip for school, and he was one of the eleven chosen to go. Thank you Jesus. So, we sent out 18 notes today. I made them, he wrote the notes and we attached them to the inside of the card. They were not "foofy" I had a ton of the "foofy" ones he could have chosen from. He very nicely said "Um, I don't think I'll use any of those". He was completely frustrated when he couldn't decide what he wanted. So, I suggested I make some for him. He's very happy with the results. I'm very happy he's sending them!

The boys go back to school next week. I cannot believe they have been home for almost a month! Although I have had a lot more cleaning and laundry and of course cooking to do. Well it will soon be just Jeff and I again. I have a few projects for Jeff after the guys leave...I'm sure he'll be thrilled!

Well, I think it's time for a shower and pj's. I need to unwind before bed, so I'll go watch Star Wars episode 2 with Jeff. G'night!

Christmas is over already?

Why is it that you work so long and so hard for something that is over in a flash? I absolutely love Christmas, but even if you decorate at Thanksgiving, it is still over way to soon. I don't want to take the decorations down, I'd like to leave them up for at least another month...that won't happen. I guess with the break in the weather I should take down the outside stuff. It's so pretty. I'll leave the tree up for another week.

Micah went back to Virginia this afternoon. He slept much better on the new mattress. It's hard to believe he's been here and gone already. He really had fun shopping for all of us this year. I got a cast iron pot (I've wanted one for years)It's gonna be great. It's an Emeril pot! And I also got a real chef's knife. It's REAL SHARP! I also got a wonderful set of knives and block to put them in from Chris. I got a new keyboard for the computer from Jordan.I am still getting used to it. The keys are more like they are on a laptop (flat) and real quiet. I can actually come down and type in the middle of the night and not wake Jeff up "clacking" away.

Jeff got me a bunch of stuff from Christopher and Banks (my favorite store in the Mall) he got me a gift certificate too, and when we were at the mall yesterday to watch a movie, we went shopping and I spent my "wad" so I'll have to wear new stuff to church tomorrow. Since NewPointe is not having services, we are going to go to church with Chris down in Uhrichsville. It'll be nice to see old friends we don't see often.

Chris and a couple of friends are getting ready to cook deer steaks over an open fire. They have red potatoes, and veggies and who knows what else. It's going on 9 PM and they are cooking? I'm gonna head upstairs to bed. I bought some old movies as stocking stuffers, and I got one for myself. Sleepless in Seattle. It's one of my all time favorites, so Jeff will have to watch a "chick flick" he'll humor me since I watch his movies all the time.

Well it is Sunday now, so I'll finish this so I can post since it's been too long between postings.
we had deer steaks for lunch today after church. They were really yummy. I never thought I'd hear myself saying that, but they really were good. So tender, and such a mild flavor. I don't really care for strong meat.

I am about ready to take a nap, it's my traditional day for napping. I have to say that I have a Facebook page, and I am so excited. I have made contact with so many long lost friends and past roommates from college and beyond. Yesterday I found a family that I have known for about 25 years that I haven't seen for about 5 years. It was so fun to make contact! Hi Amy, Karen, Melanie and Carmen!

I found out just before Christmas that the other story I submitted did not make the cut for the book. I was pretty bummed out, but my writing group really liked the story and encouraged me to continue to submit it to other places, so next week I'll start over. I have to work on Through The Tears also. I need to re-write it and have Lee help me do the line by line edit. Maybe I'll have it ready to submit to Howard Publishing in May. They were very interested last year and said if I'm not published by this May to let them know....

What a beautiful day it is today. Windy, but beautiful! The sun is shining, and it looks warm. Jeff was out earlier in his "sun booth" trying to catch a few rays. He cracks me up when he does that.

I am trying to get my brain wrapped around that 2008 is drawing to an end! I am just getting used to writing 2008, now I get to be corrected each and every time I write it wrong...2009 WOW! I'll be 49 this year. I CANNOT believe I'm that old. (my kids can, and they love to comment about Jeff and I being old). Of course I comment about Jeff's age since he's 53 already!

This year will be the year that I no longer have any teenagers. Chris will be 20 in March! Liz would have been 26 on March 20. Then in August, Jordan will be 22 and September, Micah will be 25...INCREDIBLE. How did they get that old???????

I guess I need to take it one day at a time. Let's get through the end of 2008, and have our pork and kraut to begin 2009. Then I'll think about what is next. Have a great rest of the weekend.

I'm almost ready

The decorations are done, the cookies are baked, the candy is made, the stockings are hung...hmmmm what else? I guess if the weather is lousy tomorrow I'll wrap presents. I don't have many, but I haven't done any wrapping. I have a couple of loads of laundry to do, and sheets to change... and a mattress to buy (this weekend Jeff says).

I am pretty excited about what I am seeing on the scales too. I have gotten past the plateau! Woo-hoo!!!!!! I have 14 pounds to get to my goal! Maybe I can lose some more before we go to Micah's ordination in January. Maybe.

The boys got their grades, whew... they both did well. Now we have to pray in the funds for Jordan's trip to Zambia, as well as tuition for two! Well Lord, how are you gonna supply this time?

We had our family picture done before Thanksgiving.

Here is a preview:

I have been in a very nostalgic mood these past few days. I guess the holidays tend to do that. I know that's the case, I teach my GriefShare groups that! It's so hard. It's hard not seeing Liz in this photo.

This one doesn't look quite right...it's a bit out of focus (I took a picture of a picture)

I seem to be skipping around in my normal ADOS fashion (Attention Deficit...Oooooh Shiny) maybe I can blame the caffeine (I had a bottle of Dr. Pepper today the first one in over a year) I also had something that has caused me to break out in an itchy, blotchy mess on my face. Oh joy, something else I am allergic to.IT BETTER NOT BE THE CHOCOLATE! I was making chocolate covered peanut butter crackers, and chocolate covered marshmellows. UGH!

My guys are watching the movie Flyboys, so I am curled up in the corner with my computer! I guess I am bored. I have things I need to do, but I DON'T WANNA.

I have been wondering about the stories I submitted. I heard from the Gary Chapman people, I didn't make that cut, but I am still waiting to hear form the Jim Bell people... I e-mailed my contact person (she's probably thrilled) to see if they have heard from the publisher as to who made the cut. I keep hoping!

My Writer's group met here on Monday (minus one person). It was still a good meeting. I read the story I submitted to the Jim Bell "people" and got a positive response from the group, let's hope the publisher agrees.

I have been contacted by two other churches to speak. St Joe's Catholic Church in Dover asked me to speak during Lent, and Sharon Mennonite asked me to come on January 4th. Maybe this will be the year I can be put on the "circuit" of professional speakers and writers association. You never know what will happen.

Well, I cannot think of anything else to write tonight, so I'll go get my "jammies" on and call it a day. I hope to blog before Christmas, but just in case I run out of time Merry Christmas to all of you!

Another happy moment

By supper time today I'll have two of my boys home for almost four weeks! I'm one happy mama! They each have one more final, then they hit the road for home. I am planning one of their favorite meals for tonight. Gotta celebrate.

I am hoping for a break in the rain to get the outside decorations up. Seems that time is quickly slipping away from me. I will be working for the next two days at the church. Jean and I will be preparing food for about 600 people... whew! It's fun but really tiring. Sunday night we have small group here at our house. It'll be our Christmas party. Monday I am having our writer's group here in the morning through early afternoon, then I'll be back at the church to help with the staff Christmas party.

I have most of my baking done, but I have yet to start my candy. I have the stuff, but ....

So much to do, so little time to get it all done. I am still amazed by the fact that I used to do all of this and work! No wonder I would get sick.

I know this is a short update, but I have toilets to clean (oh joy) and floors to sweep and one last load of laundry to fold.