Christian Photographers Community

• Prayer and Praise (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?board=3.0)    Thanks for visiting this area of our site to share prayer requests and items for praise!

 



1 Samuel 2 : 1- 10 NKJV

And Hannah prayed and said:
"My heart rejoices in the LORD; My horn is exalted in the LORD. I smile at my enemies, Because I rejoice in Your salvation.
"No one is holy like the LORD,For there is none besides You, Nor is there any rock like our God.
"Talk no more so very proudly; Let no arrogance come from your mouth, For the LORD is the God of knowledge; And by Him actions are weighed.
"The bows of the mighty men are broken, And those who stumbled are girded with strength.
Those who were full have hired themselves out for bread, And the hungry have ceased to hunger. Even the barren has borne seven, And she who has many children has become feeble.
"The LORD kills and makes alive; He brings down to the grave and brings up.
The LORD makes poor and makes rich; He brings low and lifts up.
He raises the poor from the dust And lifts the beggar from the ash heap, To set them among princes And make them inherit the throne of glory.
"For the pillars of the earth are the LORD's, And He has set the world upon them.
He will guard the feet of His saints, But the wicked shall be silent in darkness. "For by strength no man shall prevail.
The adversaries of the LORD shall be broken in pieces; From heaven He will thunder against them. The LORD will judge the ends of the earth.
"He will give strength to His king, And exalt the horn of His anointed."

My times are in thy hand.  (Psalm 31:15)

One of the most beautiful, Spirit inspired psalms of joy in God's sovreignty was sung by a woman, Hannah.  How she rejoiced when her prayer for a son was answered! I know how she must have felt.  I had one daughter, and then I prayed for thirteen years for another child.  Then God gave me Lori.

Again and again since that thrilling day when Lori was born, I have realized that God's timing was just right.  On many other occasions I have been aware that my times are in His omnipotent hand.  So I have learned to trust His timing instead of my own, to rest in His soverignty.

God is in charge.  We Christians do not have to worry and fret, as the lost do, about what is going to happen on earth.  The heathen may rage, but God shall laugh at them (Psalm 2:1-4).  Someday His Son shall rule the world.  

Inflation and unemployment may run rampant, but God will supply all our needs.  Wars and rumors of wars, earthquakes and hurricanes, famines and pestilences may come, but our times are in God's hands.  Nothing can separate us from His love, (Romans 8:38,39).  Nothing can touch us unless it comes  through His hand of love, in which we Christians rest. (John 10:28).

So rejoiice in God's soverignty, sister/brother in Christ.  Praise and thank him that He is overall and in all.  With the great multitude of revelation 19:6 say, "Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth."

Taken from Joy Every Morning by Muriel Larson

I remember singing this chorus in Sunday School, it has bubbled through my Spirit many times since.

I have always love the story of Hannah, Great devotional this morning.

We didn't eat up all the candy and had several   kids come to the door for treats. The dogs did real good about not barking after the first batch  of kids came and left.

There was no way we could hide from the kids as we were watching the U of Oregon and U of Southern Cal football game on the big screen TV int he family room. Keith is an alumnus of  U of O. They beat USC 42-20, Good game very exciting.

Al how is Marbeth doing.?

Larry so sorry to hear more bad news about Stacey. God is in control though and I will keep on praying for her.

Good words to start the new week, Judy.  When Hannah was praying in the temple so earnestly and heartbroken from wanting a child, the priest thought she was drunk!  And then she gave Samuel to the Lord, and what a mighty man of God he was.  It is good to revisit the stories of Bible people often, I think.  So many lessons we can learn from them.

We don't have any kids on Hallowe'en as we live in the country.  But we saw a few when we went to the Pizza Hut last night, and those we saw were accompanied by parents, a good thing, I think.  The waitress at the Hut had her face painted white, and had on a costume.  We coundn't figure out who or what she was so Darrel asked, and she said she was Dracula's wife.  I said I didn't think I would want to marry him, and she said, "But he has money!"  and showed us that she had cuff links that were big gold dollar signs!   The girl who waited on us at Applebee's in Garden was a strawberry daquiri--we had to ask about that one, too.  She had a little hat thing on her head that was supposed to be the little paper umbrella in the daquiri glass.

Since I believe Hallowe'en to be the devil's holiday, we don't "do" it either.

I have spent a couple more hours fighting with this Cricut firmware--still no success, and I am very frustrated.  :ticked:  It just shouldn't be so hard.  :(

Darrel is snoozing away with the game on TV.  Kerri used to tease him about watching football on the insides of his eyelids.

I hope everyone's week is off to a great start.

Hi everyone from Branson.  We decided yesterday to drive on down here and left this morning abour 8:15.  We are spending the afternoon in the motel resting and around 5 pm will go next door to the Andy William's Moon River Restaurant for dinner and then attend his Christmas show at 7 pm.  This is the first night of the show and we were able to get tickets.  Andy William's has always been one of my very favorite singers and I never expected to see him in person.

Tomorrow we have tickets to see a Variety Show and then tomorrow evening we will see the 12 Irish Tenors.  We will head for home on Tuesday morning and expect to be home Wednesday afternoon.

I am happy to report that everything came off on time yesterday and we made the 5:15 dinner appointment at Pat's aunt had planned for us.  We had a very nice time and a delicious steak dinner.  There were many trick and treaters at her house but they weren't there until after we finished dinner.  Before we went Pat's sister's little great grandchildren came in costume and were very cute.  This afternoon I got some photo's of my great grandchildren in their costumes.   

Judy, thanks for the devotional for this week.

Marilyn, you must have missed my previous posts. Marbeth is home and doing decently well, PTL.

Al I saw the previous posts, But you never know how quickly things can change, I only wanted an update for the last 24 hours.

I'm home, too, and the Lord Himself blessed my visit in Atlanta. Praise His Holy Name!

Larry, I've been thinking of and have prayed for your daughter. I had a friend who developed the same foot syndrome. Her doctor (who is also my own foot doctor -- I referred her to him) had saved her feet twice through surgery and use of the new-at-that-time wound vac. However, through stubbornness and noncompliance, she has ended up a double amputee over the knees.

I truly hope your daughter will be able to make the correct decision for her through God's help.

Much love to everyone. Thank you for your loving service to our Lord.

Ruth Ann

Happy Monday, all you wonderful people!  Today is the day.  For months now, I have been saying I was going to get back to my exercise program, and THIS is the day!!  Yep, I am really gonna do it.  I have excellent health, and feel so much better when I exercise, and I know it is very good for me, so I am going back to the gym at the rec this morning.  Kristi there is a very good trainer, and watches over everybody to avoid injuries, etc.  I am excited.

Ruth Ann, what a blessing for you to have that time with the kids/grands in Atlanta.  God bless you.

Larry, we had planned to go to Branson this Fall with our senior group, but that trip was cancelled.  I was looking forward to it.  I used to love Andy Williams' show on TV, and know you will enjoy his and the other shows, too.  Glad you are getting to do those things.  Our next big adventure will be in April, a trip to Guatemala and Costa Rica.  I sure hope Denver isn't snowed in with a closed airport when the time comes!

We are having friends over for supper on Thursday, then will leave Friday morning for Amarillo to help celebrate Darrel's mother's 97th birthday.

Church was great and it was real nice to eat out with the ladies at a Steak house.  After that I went to Staples, WalMart and Walgreens.  I was looking for another air brace for Ivalou which the PT said I could get at any drug store.  Well, three of them didn't have one.  Now I have located them online but I think we will wait until a PT comes to the house to see if it is the right one to order.

I went home and fell asleep while catching up online. 

Then it was time to come back here to Ivalou's house.  She was tired last evening but we still stayed up until 11pm and watched a Hallmark movie. 

So far today, no calls from a therapist!  Not sure what we are to do if no one calls!

The winners are in!

Come see the winning photos in our latest mini challenge "Devotion" Click Here (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=9073.msg140408#msg140408)

Hi everyone.  Awaiting time to eat lunch and then attending a variety Christmas show at 3 pm.  We will see the 12 Irish Tenors at 8 pm.

It is a beautiful day here in Branson.  This is not the place to be if you have a bad heart or a bad knee.  Pat and I had a hard time getting up the steep incline from where we had to park last night but we made it and it was a great show by 82 year old Andy Williams.

Hope everyone has a good day.  We will be driving back home tomorrow and Wednesday.  I will try to check in tomorrow night from the motel.

Jeanne thankyou for your help.

I am again at Doug's, and unfortunately won't be back here again in the near future as the H1N1 is in the house.  Megan is just over 3 months pregnant, and has the flu.  This is a high risk pregnancy as it is without this added on.  Please be praying for her.  We have the flu in the schools and some are on the verge of shutdown.  Heather is sick as well.  So far our house has stayed well.

I have to get and meet John.  So everyone have a good evening and may God be with you all through out this week.

I saw my doctor today, and he gave me another pneumonia shot (it's been 10 years since the last one). And, he specified that with various health problems, it's a necessity that I get the H1N1 vaccine when it becomes available. I'll call the health department tomorrow, since they're saying they'll only vaccinate children and pregnant mothers.

Oh, yes, and although only the doctor's nurse and I can tell it, fully dressed shoes and all, my weight was down 9 lbs. Not much, but I'm certainly thankful for it.

Y'all have a great day with our Lord.

Ruth Ann

Judy, so sorry to hear the flu has msde inroads there.  Pray you all stay well, and that you get your computer back soon.  We miss you.

Ruth Ann, I think 9 ppunds is great!!  Kristi weighed me yesterday, and since I had stopped going to exercise regularly months and months ago, I have gained eight pounds.  I guess that isn't too bad, but I want it off, and 20 or so more along with it!  So rejoice over that missing 9 pounds!  Your comment about the pneumonia shot makes me wonder how many years it has been now since I had one.....hmmmm.

Praise God for another day to live and breathe and do His will.

I went to church council meeting last evening.  Neighbor Marge came to be with Ivalou.  Today I would like to go to SAM's lunch.  Senior Adult Ministery lunch.  We don't have anyone to sit with Ivalou but she says she will be fine.  We will see how things go before I decide to go. 

I am getting a little overwhelmed.  I was thinking in the beginning I would have Friday and Saturday nights at home.  But it seems I will only have Saturday and times when I have appointments or things I have to do or want to do.  No ME time.  Time to just sit and relax.  It could all be worse.  I could be having to take Ivalou to therapy instead of home therapy.  We still haven't heard from PT and OT.  Maybe today.

Barb and Kaye Don are leaving Friday or Saturday for Florida.  Neither of them have stayed with Ivalou.

I can understand about the difficulties of communication, scheduling, etc. that go along with someone recovering from a devastating condition.

Give Ivalou love from us, and please know that all of us are praying both with and FOR you, Etta Sue.

I'm expecting to hear from some friends, so need to be ready for them when they call.

Y'all have a great rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

I am just in for a few minutes as I need to place a Sear's Catalogue order, hubby needs some special order items.

Liz: I am older than dirt as well, but thanks for sending it along as I will be sending a copy to a couple of older than dirt folks as well, thanks for sharing memories.

Larry: Glad to hear that you are enjoying your vacation.

Janet: Auction's not to many years ago brought in a fair dollar but in this area the numbers have hit bottom, I feel that in some instances it would be best to give it away or throw in the garbage.

Etta Sue:  Keep strong.

Winter is on its way - Have a great evening      
Ruth

Well, thanks - I am older than dirt!  But - our daughter and neighbors do still have home milk delivery in glass bottles - organic milk and it truly has kept our grands from growing up too quickly - more normal than their peers.  Black gum.  Don't they still have it?  If you had metal ice trays, do not try to bring them out of the freezer when your hands are wet.  Yikes.

I worked for the airlines and Don was military - we would have lost jobs or been demoted for being late.  No excuse. 

We are back from working on the cabin.  I can put in closet shelves pretty good now & was gopher for Don for two days.  Barely any snow at the cabin but the mountain tops are coated heavily and ski resort of Winter Park was gearing up for skiing as we passed. 

Janet:  I feel the same as you on knowing just enough to be dangerous on too many things but computers especially.

Larry:  Are there any other opinions from doctors for Stacey?  My prayers for her and this tremendous decision. 

Janet:  Are you watching the voting results in several states?  Very interesting. 

Etta Sue:  I know what you are saying - my prayers for you too as I know that the others just assume you will be there for your sister.  Been there - hugs to you.   

I'm watching, Carol.........

We are not long in from Liberal.  It's been a long day and my eyes are burning, so I am heading for bed now.

Daughter-in-law, Linda, was here this morning for 3 hours to give me some time off.  But I went to the bank, the grocery, Dollar General, brought things back here, then to my house, then took a shower and washed my hair, fed the cats, then worked on the desktop to see how to print postcards.  Also got my gift for my Secret Sister ready to take to the revealing Sunday afternoon.  Also got Ivalou's gift ready.  By then it was 12:15 and time to come back here.  Rush. Rush. Rush. 

Linda asked me what time I wanted her to be here Saturday morning.  I said as early as possible.  She looked surprised and asked if I would rather someone be here Friday night.  So I said that no one had ever discussed the times but since I know that none of the three kids can stay here during the week, that I am willing to stay Sunday night around 6pm through Friday night around 6pm.  And if I have something I need to do during that time, it is up to me to find someone to stay with Ivalou.  So if the three kids and their spouses all have something to do during their time, then it should be up to them to find someone...not rely on me to stay because they want to do something.  I am willing to do more than my part but I also don't want to be taken advantage of or not have any ME time.  Linda agreed.  And it seems that all three kids have something they want to do Friday night.  We will see what happens.  I won't leave Ivalou alone but I also know that if some guidelines aren't set, then I may be here all the time!

Don't get me wrong.  I can leave Ivalou for an hour or two but that is when I rush home to do things at home or go to Lapel for things.  It isn't relaxing.  And living alone for 18 years, I do have relaxing times that I am used to having.  I never was one to have to be doing something all the time.  I am not constantly doing things here for Ivalou but being at someone else's home isn't like being at home.

I sure hope you all don't think I am awful but I sure don't want to get to NOT wanting to do for Ivalou.  And again, it will be harder once home therapy is over.  But then, she should be able to help herself more then, too.  It's hard when your routine is interrupted and when you don't know what your future is going to be. 

Thanks for letting me vent.  I know, you didn't let me...I just went ahead and vented anyway!

Father, I pray You'll move in the hearts of all concerned to pitch in and do their parts in taking care of Ivalou.  And Father, give wisdom to Etta Sue to know how to deal with this through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Etta Sue, it is important to set up a schedule for others to take some turns.  They must understand that you need some time for yourself.  It's OK for you to be the main caretaker, but they need to take responsibility, too.

Hi everyone.  We got home about 1 pm this afternoon and it sure looked good.  I think this was the longest vacation we have ever taken.  We had a good time but Branson about did us in with the hills.  Between Pat's knee and my heart we both had problems but still had a good time.  On Monday we were able to park close to the entrances and didn't have to walk up a steep grade.  Almost all of the people we saw there were older and know that many others must struggle with the inclines. 

We had a lovely drive from Memphis to Birmingham.  However, I-40 was something else and I don't think I have ever seen as many trucks on the road going in both directions. 

I have choir practice this evening.  We have only 5 or 6 practices left before we perform the Christmas Cantata on December 6th.

Etta Sue, I think you did the right things to let Ivalou's children know how you feel and that you need your own time. 

Carol, Stacey has seen various doctors and they basically agree.

Ruth Ann, congratulations on your weight loss.  I think 9 lbs is a very good start.

WELCOME HOME, LARRY!!!

We are so glad you are safely home.  There's no place like home!  ;)Yes, Branson surely is hilly, and that's too bad, because so many older folks love going there for all the shows.

Etta Sue, it really is necessary to talk it out and set up definite times for Ivalou's care.  You don't want to wear out or burn out, and like you said, after having your own space for so long, you need your time alone, or to do what you want to do.  Just because you live next door doesn't mean you should be on call 24/7.  And vent all you want to!  We will listen and love you. {{{{{hugs}}}}}

Carol, was your grin as big as mine when you watched the news this morning?  :D  If the results had been different in NY, it would have been an outright laugh!  ;)

I took my friend Pat to Red Hats today.  She is only able to be up part of each day.  She will have back surgery on the 12th, and I am really praying that does the trick for her.

Where is our Pat now?  I miss her.

Liz, how is the weather up your way?  Has the construction around you stopped yet?

My prophecy programs are going to be on before long.  I love Wednesday nights!

Larry:  Welcome home.

Etta Sue:   Many of us here know the feeling of stress, do your best to let others know that you do need me time, which is much easier said than done especially when you are a giving person.

Today both Mel & myself had doctors appointments all with good reports, I still have follow up ex rays but I am not concerned at all.  God is good all the time.

How many have heard of unravelling knitting - well for me with Mel's help it was  unravelling an afghan that was almost finished - I was joining new colors every few rows and did not like  the join, I have changed how it is done and am very pleased no ends to tuck in when I have it completed.

Mel  also had some problems with winterizing his boat a phone call to our son and up he came to do the small job. He then had dinner with us something we really enjoyed then on his way home, he was going to take some dessert to his great aunt/ my aunt on his way home.

See ya'll tomorrow       Ruth

Hi, y'all,

Larry, next time thru Nashville, give me a holler and see if I'm available to meet y'all somewhere. I live less than a mile from I-40, so it's easy to get on the interstate and meet friends if scheduling allows.

I had my first phys therapy appt today and of course, with the therapist's assessment, it took a while and while she was gentle, at times I winced with pain. She suggested that the winces and grimaces let her know the stress levels my shoulder would tolerate.

I laughed and told someone on the phone this morning, that I was going to physical therapy to "learn how to fly" again.  ;)

One of the exercises is to move a broom handle back and forth by holding that handle near the broom and then at the end with my left hand, thus using my right one to help the left one get better in the arc again. (hope this makes sense)

Now, it's time to literally "chill out" and let the swelling go down with that ice therapy.

G'nite, friends.

Hi everyone.  I have spent the morning catching up on paperwork, including looking at the change in fees and coverage of our health insurance for next year.  Our policy goes up $28 a month in premiums and from $25 to $30 for non-generic prescriptions.  Also specialist doctor visits go up from $20 to $25 per visit. I am thankful to have good health insurance.

It is another beautiful day here in Georgia.  Our next door neighbor is getting a new roof put on his house and they should finish up this afternoon.  I need to have my roof checked out to see if I didn't have hail damage as he did.

Nothing on the schedule for today but resting up from the trip.

Ruth Ann, we didn't come back through Nashville on I-40.  Rather when we got to Memphis we took off on Hwy 78, which was a delightful drive with little traffic.  I think this may be our preferred way to Kansas City in the future as Memphis is about halfway and we wouldn't have to deal with St. Louis.

Ruth, unraveling knitting doesn't sound like much fun.  I see my wife occasionally remove stitching and know that isn't her favorite thing to do.

Janet, I liked the news from the election also.  I just hope the politicians are getting the message that many Americans don't like the way things are going.  Sorry to hear that your friend, Pat, is having a bad time with her back. 

I am in a much better frame of mind today after talking to Linda.  It is an ease to not have to think about who will be staying with Ivalou from Friday around 6pm to Sunday about 6pm.  Just hope that many of them don't come all the same weekend but that's not my problem.  Lauren, the 22 yo granddaughter, wants to come see Grandma.  She started chemo 10 days ago and is feeling much better now.  So maybe Teresa and her can come Saturday and spend the night with Grandma. 

Kitty and I want to swim Saturday afternoon.  Then I have been asked to run the overhead again Sunday morning.  Then in the afternoon is the Secret Sister Revealing party.  Ivalou has opted not to be a Secret Sister next year and I am thinking I may not either.  I am thinking I need to slice my extras a little.  I am thinking I will busy during my 48 hours.

Kaye Don finally got Ivalou's handicap placard after three trips to the BMV!  They are leaving for Florida Saturday morning, I think.  They haven't said for sure.  Just know they haven't spend over a half hour with Ivalou since her coming home!!  So they might as well be in Florida where I know they can't help.

It is bright and sunny today.  Trash day and it was pleasant taking the trash to Kaye Don's drive.  Almost missed it last week so this week I took it early.

Etta Sue, that's good news that you have things settled for your weekends to be free.   ;)

Our latest mini-challenge, #38, is open.  The topic is "I SEE GOD", suggested by Laughing Peppers the winner of the last challenge, and you can read all about it here:  http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=9163.0 (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=9163.0)

>:( >:( When I was right in the middle of typing my post, this computer decided to shut down and update itself.   >:(

I was saying something about the shootings at Ft. Hood, Texas.  Seven dead, 20 wounded, three shooters at latest report.  This sounds like a conspiracy.   :'(

We are hosting some friends for supper tonight, so I can't be here for long.

Ruth, what a sweet husband, to help you unravel the knitting!  I know nothing about knitting, but admire the work of others.

Darrel just got home from Liberal, where he was working on an alarm system.  One of our customers absconded to Mexico owing us over $4000.00.  Grrr.

Talk to you later.

Janet:  A pox on the thief - (I wonder where that saying came from? )   ;D on the voting results - I listened to two different stations on t.v. with entirely different views.  One is well known for omitting parts of every story. 

Ruth:  You have the patience of Job to unravel an entire afghan.  I would have donated it as is and started another one. 

Called a high school friend who fell off a ladder and broke about a dozen bones in her leg.  She was mad at first but is now able to say each day is a bit better.  Around the clock help from family and friends plus nursing care comes in daily too.  She lost her husband less than a year ago.  I wish I could help but she is miles away. 

Etta Sue:  Good that you talked with the family because you must take care of yourself too or you will become run-down and catch a bug. 

I am signing on for Don and I to go to the neighborhood dinner at December.  It is one way to stay in touch with the 100 homes in this area.  I can only hope that there isn't a lot of background music because the piano playing they had last year will drive Don half crazy - he had to walk out of the Dollar store today because of the loud obnoxious music. 

Hi everyone, I guess you could say I have been here lurking for a few days.
Pat left a note on  S&F. She is home and needs our prayers for  her injured shoulder. I am sure she will stop by here and tell us how and when it happened. So far she is in a lot of pain.

There is supposed to be a big storm coming in here today so far it has not arrived although on last nights news it said it would be here at 6:30 this morning.

All is well here, the two cats are getting along fine and Grubby  is now getting along with the dogs. He still wants to go outside a lot but  think he enjoys being int he house. He is not neutered and Keith doesn't want to neuter hims as long as he goes outside  most of the time. I think he should be neutered regardless if he is an outside  or inside cat.

Keith's boys will all be in town  for Thanksgiving at their mother's house but will come here too and  spend at least one night here.I am going to  Eureka for Thanksgiving but will return home the day after to be with Keith and the boys.

Not really much new except to say that this was one of those days that we got many phone calls. In fact it is ringing now. grrrrr.

Marilyn: Thanks for letting us know about Pat.

Also we got our first blast of winter earlier this afternoon, this way we know that more is to come.

Ruth

Our day is just beginning.  Big day of laundry and getting prepared for me going back home and all.  Ivalou is to get a shower this afternoon. 

I got a call from Kaye Don last evening.  They were suppose to bring us Chinese food (makes me think of Mieka  :) ) but they had bad news about Keri, their daughter that had the bilateral mastectomy Sept 11,  went to her doctor and he put her in the hospital.  She has had a lot of infection and drainage.  She has already had an incision opened and cleaned previously.  This time she is on IV anti-biotics and if that doesn't help, she will have surgery to remove the expanders.  I have no idea what that means.  The expanders are to expand the muscles for reconstructive surgery later on.  Just hope she can still have that. 

So say a prayer for Keri.  Seems like my family is having too much going on right now.  But God is in control!  Barb and Kaye Don are delaying their leaving for Florida until Keri is out of the hospital which will be at least 3 days.

On a happier note, Lauren is to come see her Grandma tomorrow for a night and Sunday!  That will make both, Lauren AND Grandma, feel better! 

A cloudy, dreary day in Indiana!

Hi everyone.  Another sunny beautiful day here in Georgia.  It was quite chilly this morning but has warmed up a bit. 

We had a good turnout for the men's coffee at the Senior Center.  Our attendance has been down recently but everyone seems to be back in town.

This afternoon we are going to go down and get Stacey and take her to the grocery store so we can help her stock up for the month.  She can handle a few things but there are some big items and canned goods that are difficult for her to handle.  She has made spaghetti and we will share lunch with her today. 

Etta Sue, glad you will have a couple of days off.  Sorry to read of the problems for your other niece.  The IV antibiotic makes me wonder if she has MERSA (think that is what it is called).  Infections seem to be so prevalent with surgeries now.

Marilyn, thanks for sharing that piece on Christmas.  I was pleased at two of the shows in Branson related to Christmas.  Andy Williams recited the reason for Christmas and in the variety show the lead singer also made a definite point of what is the reason for the season.

Carol, you and Don sure don't want to go to Branson as they seem to have the volume at a level that is very unpleasing and would undoubtedly bother anyone with hearing problems.

Janet, sorry to hear of the person owning you money skipping the country. 

Greetings, friends, God loves us and I believe He knows our pain and the problems we have. Yet I know that, while He's there to listen and act in our behalf, imagine the comfort we can gain by thinking of Jesus, sitting at the right hand of the Father praying for us while at the same time, our Comforter is beside us to let us know how much He loves and cares for us.

As my grandparents used to say as they rubbed the joint that was hurting, I b'leive this cold snap has set in for a while - my bones tell me so. I wondered about that when, of course, I was young and never a pain in sight. :) Now, it seems easier to understand.

I awakened this morning under my light quilt shivering. Hmmm - time to either turn up the heat or bring out the heavier comforter.

Today's PT at 4:00, supper with my 84 year old cousin at 5 (I'll need to call to either cancel that or reset - the PT will last an hour!), and then take her to our Trevecca homecoming at 7:00. While several of our family members including her and me have graduated from Trevecca Nazarene University, she also taught speech and speech therapy. It was sooo lovely to see her tiny form near our postal boxes the first day I moved in.

God is so good to us, even through test and trials.

Much love to you through Christ Our Lord.

Ruth Ann

hello all i am doing well... just working and getting things ready for the baby :) only 7 weeks until Christmas day! I have decided that i will take off about a week before the baby is born so i'm not leaving the store stranded for a manager! anyways i must be off going to meet mom for lunch have a good day!
Sarah

Don't forget, folks!  Our latest mini challenge is titled "I SEE GOD".  Do you see Him in autumn colors?  In cloud formations?  In spring blossoms?  In drifts of snow?  In a newborn baby?  In a Baptism ceremony? 

Just a few suggestions, but let's have some pictures of what says "GOD" to you.  Click here:  http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=9163.msg140557#msg140557

Sarah, I think of you often. I'll be praying for you as time for the birth draws near. I ended up being a single mom shortly after my daughter's birth, so definitely can encourage you to stay strong,  believe, and as St. Paul wrote, possibly you'll want to remind yourself often, "I can do all things through Christ Who strengtheneth me."

Well, I'm mighty tired tonight. My odyssey for the day began when I left home about 11 am. First took my CPAP to get a new mask and headgear. The other one is "kaput." Well, of course, it must be approved by Health Spring ...... soooo, I suppose I'll struggle on with this elderly mask for a few more days.   grrrr

Then, off- hurry scurry - to an Aldi store. Needed to get lots of eggs for breakfast casserole tomorrow morning. We're having a morning meeting at church. Aldi's has the eggs for 49 cents a dozen this week. I bought 4 dozen, knowing that I'll be using quite a few during Thanksgiving weekend, and the sell-by date is after Thanksgiving, so I know they'll still be fresh then.

Then, barely made it back to the phys therapy place by 4, where she worked me until 5:20. I had to leave then, for next stop was to pick up my 84 year old cousin for a presentation at the university.

Picked up a barbecue sandwich on the way there, got her at 6:10, and then we parked near the auditorium. Whilte sitting in the car, I took my meds, and drank my diet coke, and got a call from my busy brother while we were waiting for the beginning of the presentation.

Near the correct time, off we went to the MOST MARVELOUS evening I've had in years!!!

It's homecoming week at the University, so they planned a presentation modeled exactly like Garrison Keilor's Prairie Home Companion. That's one of my most favorite PBS radio program -- I enjoy it on Saturday nights, then listen to the replay on Sunday nights, as well.

Now, I'm worn out, but so glad we went. I met several friends from years ago. One couple really stood out to me - they had come to my church in the '80s, a struggling-financially young couple getting their degrees a bit older than most college students. Well, I didn't see his wife at first, but knew I recognized the man's face. Went up to him, we established the communication, and it makes my eyes fill with tears at the nice things they said. They both talked about how much they had loved me because I showed love and kindness to them, welcomed them into my little home, and fed them several times. Also the wife told me all the words of a poem my daughter Becky had written for them about their friendship with us. Here it is, about 24-25 years later, they still cared and shared loving thoughts with me.

Well, I've gotta close this "epistle." Betcha y'all are tired of hearing my nattering tonight.

Rest well, friends.

Hi everyone.  Just a quick stop by this morning.  Just back from coffee at McDonald's and then have a meeting later this morning.  Expect to spend the rest of the day resting and watching the football games.  Pat is going to the grocery store this morning as our cupboards are getting bare of some of the essentials and perishable items since we didn't want to leave those items while we were away.

We had a nice visit with our daughter yesterday.  She invited us down to have spaghetti and meat sauce that she had made, garlic bread, chocolate chip cookies and brewed ice tea with her.  This is first time we can remember she has ever done this.  Of course, that met she was on her foot way too much.  She talked with her mother this morning and is suffering from all she did yesterday but know she enjoyed doing it.  After lunch we took her to the grocery store and helped her get her groceries back up to her apartment for the month.  It is hard for her to handle much on her electric wheelchair especially if it is heavy. 

Hope everyone has a nice weekend.

I am home.  Busy morning though.  I have already made some Party Mix for Ivalou and I.  When you buy all the stuff for it, it makes two big batches so now the cereal boxes are empty!  And I mixed together the ingredients for Sausage Balls to take as an appetizer for the Secret Sister Revealing Party tomorrow afternoon.  All I have to do now is put them in the oven after I go out to eat with the ladies tomorrow.  Then they should be hot when I get to the home where we find out who our Secret Sisters have been this past year. 

Kitty called and we are going out to eat somewhere before swimming.  Also there is a swim gear store that we want to go to before swimming.  Then swimming.  I doubt if we eat after we swim...I don't know.  Kitty is driving today.   

It is a beautiful day in Indiana today!  Sunny and bright!  Just wish the cornfield across the road was picked!  This time of year, all Hoosiers are getting tired of seeing tall cornfields.  About all the soybean fields have been combined and a few cornfields.  It will make the crossroads safer for driving when the cornfields are down.  You have to assume that the cars will stop when they are suppose to stop! 

Where is everyone? The posters have sure been dwindling down over the last year or so. we get new people and it seems like they never post in this forum and maybe they post  photos now and then.  I have not been posting as much as I used to. My life is kinda boring, I spend  much of my time on the computer  doing  things in PSP, making stationery and participating in those creating groups. I do  participate over at S&F.  I don't get out much except to go to Walmart or shopping at some other store, however twice per week I go to exercise class and see Jane there as well. I walk my dogs separately every day sometimes twice per day. Some weekends we go for a drive and I do still go to California to see my family. I was there over Labor Day and I am going down for Thanksgiving, but coming back right away because Keith's son's are coming  the day after Thanksgiving.

Etta Sue I have been following your time spent with Ivalou and I am glad that you are getting to have some time for yourself, that is so important when you are a caregiver. I used to get so upset when Ruth would call me at all  the wee hours to ask me what time it was. She had her days and nights mixed up, if she wasn't calling me the Lifeline people were to tell me that  she was scared and could I go over there. I had to tell them no that I would call her. She would even call 911 just for the attention of another human being int he middle of the night. Then the hospital would call me and ask me to come get her to take her home, I told them to call her son that I was not a 24 hour caregiver. So I know that you have to put your foot down and get some of the others to help you so you can have time off.

It was nice yesterday to go to Ivalou's and visit....not have to stay.  I got to see Lauren and she looks great.  I still cannot get it in my head  that she has this chemo to go through for 7 years! 

Kitty and I ate at Chili's and then went to a Swim Gear place in Indy.  I got a new nose clip and a swimsuit.  Much needed and they don't sell them in many stores in Indiana this time of year!  Then Kitty went to a Quilt Place and then to swim.  I swam 30 laps and walked 4 laps.  It certainly was a time that I was only thinking of swimming.  I will get my breathing and swimming synchronized one of these days! 

We came home right after swimming and I visited Ivalou again taking a card from Kitty for her.  I watched TV last evening and still not caught up with my recorded shows. 

Today I am running the overhead again...Sunday School...eat out with the ladies.  Then come home and bake my Sausage Balls and take them at 3pm for the Secret Sister Revealing party.  Then come home, change clothes and go to Ivalou's for the week. 

Both the furgirls have slept with me both nights and when I am watching TV or on the laptop, they are right beside me or on the back of the couch!  They miss me!

I am praying that everyone has a God-filled day!

Hi everyone.  Once again we have a delightfully sunny and cool morning.  We are going to church early this morning to meet with one of the elders.  They are doing a survey of all members on 5 questions and this was basically done while we were away.  I think we are the last ones for this particular elder and the project must be completed by this next week.  This will save him a trip to our house since we will be there anyway. 

Etta Sue, when we drove through Illinois, Iowa and Minnesota on our trip we saw many, many field that had not yet been harvested.  We also saw some flooded fields.  I know the farmers are very concerned.

I followed the health care bill debate and voting on my iPod Twitter account last evening.  In my view we are headed into very troubled waters here.

Hope everyone has a wonderful day.  Etta Sue, glad you have had a weekend off to recoup.

Marilyn, at least say hi when you read the posts so we know you are OK.  We are an extended family here and when someone doesn't post it causes concern.

The theme of the sermons lately has been about living with less and the pastor mention half of the world lives on less than $2 per day.  Here, it is easy to spend that amount on a coffee - perhaps as much as three days of the poorest income.  Very good sermon and they have ordered 4 hearing aids for the chapel, which is the early morning service we prefer.  For the very first time, I heard a baby cry in there as otherwise no one brings their children to that 7:30 am service.

Marilyn:  Your life doesn't sound boring but it is peaceful now.  So happy for you. 

Praying for all the injured and families of Fort Hood and we prayed for the soul of the shooter as well.  Such sad news we have in this country. 

Hello, everyone.  Darrel and I had a nice visit with his family Friday and Saturday.  We (or should I say I) helped with the preparation, serving and cleanup of the birthday dinner for his Mom's 97th birthday.  She is still in good health, has trouble hearing, but otherwise is doing well.  She announced to us that she has decided to live to be 110!  I say, good for her!  :)  We got home around 1 this morning or so.

Larry, I sure agree with you about the health care thing.  I think we will see a big LACK of health care if this mess gets pushed on through the Senate.  It seems those in office now, the majority, don't care what the American people want, they intend to have their way, no matter the cost.   :ticked:

Sarah, nice to see you posting.  I hope you are feeling well, and that the baby will be strong and healthy.  Please try to take care of yourself.

Ruth Ann, what a lovely post, and what a busy time you have had lately.  You are such a giving and caring person, we are privileged to know you.

I have a less busy week according to my calendar, we will see what else comes up as time goes by.  :cool:

I am REALLY tired of football already, especially on Sundays.  :P  I don't mind one game, but.......  Of course, I never saw a football game until I was grown, then it took a while before I understood it, so I will probably never be a dyed-in-the-wool fan.  (Why do we say that??)  ???  Anyway, I think I will go to the bedroom so I can watch something else for a while.

 :)Good evening to all.  I have looked over the posting and it seems that you are all very busy.  Today we have had what we call our Indian summer and for the past few days also.  It is so nice to get this warm weather today it was almost 70 degrees F. so did enjoy it a lot. :thumbsup:   Tomorrow I have a doctors app. to do with my carpal tunnel which I hope he does not want me to have surgery but if it happens I will leave it in the Lords hands. :)

My wife has also not been having a very good time with her back and she has had a lot of spasm's and it is very hard to move around so please pray for her and my app tomorrow. :thumbsup:

Judy B.  I hope that you do not get sick with this H1N1 flu that's all you would need.

Well will sign of for now may the Lord give you all a wonderful week. <3 Gord.

Time to start a new topic for the coming week.

Click HERE (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=9172.0).