Christian Photographers Community

Come and join us this week and share with us your plans and thoughts for the week!  We sing, share and encourage other members here.

Hope to see you posting this week!

• 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!

 






"Give us this day our daily bread..."

Your first step into the house of God was not to the kitchen but to the living room, where you were reminded of your adoption. "Our Father who is in heaven." You then studied the foundation of the house, where you pondered his permanence. "Our Father who is in heaven." Next you entered the observatory and marveled at his handiwork: "Our Father who is in heaven." In the chapel, you worshiped his holiness: "Hallowed be thy name." In the throne room, you touched the lowered scepter and prayed the greatest prayer, "Thy kingdom come." In the study, you submitted your desires to his and prayed, "Thy will be done." And all of heaven was silent as you placed your prayer in the furnace, saying, "on earth as it is in heaven."

Proper prayer follows such a path, revealing God to us before revealing our needs to God. (You might reread that one.) The purpose of prayer is not to change God, but to change us, and by the time we reach God's kitchen, we are changed people. Wasn't our heart warmed when we called him Father? Weren't our fears stilled when we contemplated his constancy? Weren't we amazed as we stared at the heavens?

Seeing his holiness caused us to confess our sin. Inviting his kingdom to come reminded us to stop building our own. Asking God for his will to be done placed our will in second place to his. And realizing that heaven pauses when we pray left us breathless in his presence.

By the time we step into the kitchen, we're renewed people! We've been comforted by our father, conformed by his nature, consumed by our creator, convicted by his character, constrained by his power, commissioned by our teacher, and compelled by his attention to our prayers.

The prayer's next three petitions encompass all of the concerns of our life. "This daily bread" addresses the present. "Forgive our sins" addresses the past. "Lead us not into temptation" speaks to the future. (The wonder of God's wisdom: how he can reduce all our needs to three simple statements.)

First he addresses our need for bread. The term means all of a person's physical needs. Martin Luther defined bread as "Everything necessary for the preservation of this life, including food, a healthy body, house, home, wife and children." This verse urges us to talk to God about the necessities of life. He may also give us the luxuries of life, but he certainly will grant the necessities.

Excerpted from Any fear that God wouldn't meet our needs was left in the observatory. Would he give the stars their glitter and not give us our food? Of course not. He has committed to care for us. We aren't wrestling crumbs out of a reluctant hand, but rather confessing the bounty of a generous hand. The essence of the prayer is really an affirmation of the Father's care. Our provision is his priority.

From The Great House of God
Copyright (Thomas Nelson, 1997) Max Lucado[/i]

What a mighty God we serve!  All powerful, all loving, infinitely creative, and surpassingly intelligent!  How we should praise Him constantly.  Thanks, Jeanne, for the good thoughts from Max Lucado.

And what a difference a day makes.  Yesterday we praised God for preserving my Mom for a while, and today we got another early morning call telling us Darrel's Mother passed away this morning at 5:00.  It's been a rough day for him, and for me as well.  I loved Pauline, too, but Darrel was close to his mother all his life, and it's hard for him to believe she is gone.  But we thank God for giving her 98 years to live here on this earth.

Our Valentine's banquet last night was so nice.  The young people did a great job, and their leaders are certainly to be commended.

And today Abby danced in the ballet Cinderella.  It was a lovely show, and the kids all did such a good job.  They had some tiny little boys who were mice, and they were simply adorable!  SO cute!  I took lots of photos with my new camera, using the big lens.  Soon I must re-learn how to post photos on here.

Abby was a butterfly, she looked lovely.  And she helps a lot with the little kids, so she is an appreciated member of the dance academy.

Mom made it fine today; and I will be checking on her early tomorrow.  We are waiting for word from Darrel's brother as to whether or not he is coming, before final plans can be made for Mother.

Larry, sorry you weren't up to attending your Seniors Valentine Banquet.

I only had a couple hours sleep Sat. night :D (Thyroid med, hormones, sleep apnea, and who knows what else!) O and there were these good Christian movies on TV real late, based on Janetts Oke's Books, and then more of them today on TBN, (not promoting TBN, most of the stuff on there is really bad), but these movies are good. They are available on DVDs and VCR tapes if you want some good Christian movies. This site shows the names of them http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1031745/


I was running late for Sunday School, but almost everyone else was later than I was! One of the nice things about a small class of people who know each other well you know it does not bother anyone if you come in late, we would rather that than not see each other!  :) :)

Got to do my Sunday country drive.  :)  Extras, some snow still left, and a blue sky perfect for pictures! ;)

I took a late nap, so here I am up in the middle of the night! ::)

Etta Sue, I meant the book, Women in the Bible , you said you got a good bargain on it. I am in Clarksville, on the border of TN and KY.

Janet, what a scare with your mom! Lifting her and everyone around her in prayer!

Pat, Thank you dear. Congratulations on being great Grandma!
The radio station is WNKJ (The world needs king Jesus) You can listen on line to, www.wnkj.org  I have  met most of the people working there, real sweet people. One of them is a friend I sang in a choir with a few years back. There are a couple other Christian stations here now, but they have all kinds of adds, have almost all music no teaching, I want some meat! (And most of the music they play is not music to my ears.)

Larry, I am sorry you are weary. Lifting you in prayer!

Judy B, Lifting you and your dear John in prayer as he travels the roads and you wait!

Carol, Glad you got to visit with your cousin. (I understand the high pitch dog barking, it actually hurts many of our ears as we mature.)

Jeanne Lee, Yes, the sun and Son was shining so beautiful today! And the sky was blue, perfect picture taking day in the country! :)

Jury duty....YES!  I am ready to take the trash and head to downtown Indy!  I maybe slept 2 hours last night so I hope I find coffee!  And I dreamed I couldn't find my way out of the parking garage...walking and when coming home...driving!  Maybe they will think I am to dingy to be a juror!

Happy Valentines day everyone.

John called me early to let me know I am loved early this am.  I was so startled by the phone ringing I automatically used my bad arm..... Ouch.  He is leaving New Liskard (sp) heading to his drop.

We have had a snow dump today.  Still snowing.  As if we haven't enough snow!

Jeanne thank you for the devotional.

Carol sounds like your friend with the dog needs the Dog whisperer.  I have seen him stop other dogs from their incessant barking.

Vapor I understand sleepless nights.  Many of us here do.  Once you get into that cycle it is hard to get back to sleeping nights.

Etta Sue you will be fine.  God has a plan for this.

Janet I am glad Abby is doing so well.  Praying sis.

:-\ Did NONE of you read that Darrel's dear Mother passed away yesterday morning????

Yes I said I was praying..  I am so sorry for your loss, and at a loss for words.

Hi everyone.  I have just a couple of minutes before needing to leave for an appointment and then will go to my Monday men's luncheon.  It is a beautiful day here in Georgia and already 45 degrees.

Janet, so sad for Darrel as I understand a son's love for his mother.  I lost mine at 81 and it still leaves me sad when I think about it.  You certainly had a full day and it sounds like it was fun. 

My wife gave me a beautiful Valentine's card with beautiful words on it.  I gave her several of the small bags of no sugar Russell Stover and Dove candies as she likes those. 

Judy, hope you don't get snow bound up your way and that John is able to make it home without difficulty.

Etta Sue, will be interested in reading about your courtroom experience.

Vapor, I believe your prayer for me (and the others that have been offered) really helped as I feel more like my normal self today.  Yesterday I knew I wouldn't be able to keep my appointment or attend my luncheon today if I felt as tired today.

Jeanne, thanks for the devotional.  I haven't had time to read it yet but will do so.

Dear Janet,

I read about it late last night and thought and prayed for Darrel and you..... but didn't post..... I am sorry; I tend to do things like that!!

I remember when Everett's Mom died, in 1907, how he needed comforting.... and still does! He loved his Mom dearly and misses her, to this day.

Please let him know we are upholding him in prayer.

Ruth V   what year did Everett's mom die.... surely not 1907!!!

Larry, glad you are feeling a wee bit better.  Take care my friend.

:bonk:
Because my memory for dates is soooooo bad I rely on a spreadsheet I saved "Dates to Remember"
I copied down her birth year!!! She died at the age of 85 in 1992.

Etta Sue: Thank you for the Valentine.... it's gorgeous!

@ RuthV  LOL

Janet I am so sorry to ready of Darrel's mother's demise. I am praying for you both at this  time. I read that yesterday but I didn't post anything  in CP I just came to read. I am sorry that I didn't say something when I read it. Please forgive my negligence.

Janet& Darrel    so sorry to hear that your mom passed away, it will be a time of sorrow and a time of praise.

An update Mel's surgery was yesterday at 9 in the morning lasting 3 hours and if after he woke up things did not respond correctly he would have to go back into OR thankfully that did not happen.  He was released from hospital this morning so now the long progress of healing, followed by therapy.     He is now sleeping but I am so glad that it is over.

I am so very tired but in time I will recover.

Thanks, friends.  And best wishes for Mel's recovery.  Plans still not finalized for Mother's service(s) so we are a bit frazzled.

Janet, I'm sorry I was remiss in offering my sympathy and assurance of prayers for you and Darrel and the family.  I did read about it but what with closing one topic and opening another and posting the devotional I guess this old brain just frizzled out.  I know how Darrel will miss her.  My mom died 2 1/2 years ago and I still keep thinking, "I'll ask Mom about that." 

It's okay, Jeanne.  I was just hurting, and having nothing said sort of caused more pain.  But I know these things happen every day, and that nobody here meant to ignore my post, so I apologize for my question.  Thanks for the thoughts and prayers.

Even if we are in our 70s, we still like to consult a parent sometimes, right?

I'm looking for someone to sing a solo at Mother's graveside service....finally got a pastor.  It is hard not having a pastor at times like this.  Our new pastor will be here the end of this month, but that doesn't help this week!  I did find another one we know, though.  We just didn't want to have someone that none of us know.

Janet: My sympathy to you and Darrel on the loss of his mother.  It is such a defining moment when you lose your parents. 

Vapor:  Well, when I think of your name in here I am reminded of a jet airplane flying high and watching the vapor - it is something I just love to watch.  Love airplanes so I will think of you.  What an unusual pen name but good for sure.  Sorry about your sleeping recently. 

JudyB:  Well, that dog they brought was found lost in a rough area of Arizona so it hasn't been trained very well.  Good idea for training though.  Grandson is playing in Manitoba I think this coming weekend - a big tournament.  Hockey - the Canadian game.  But - his team won all four games last time in your country - shocking! 

One of the best parts of having this cousin visit is we speak about our blessings and have great prayers for saying Grace.  Love them and so grateful for good relatives. 

Morning everyone.  What a morning this has been.  John  came home last night and had a good rest.  This morning he was backing out of the driveway and promptly got stuck.  This truck has no weight on the drive wheels and he has been stuck more times than he can count.  Same with the last International he drove.  He came in wishing he had his old Peterbilt back again.  Well he will get his new truck in the next week or two. 

We had -25*C temps this morning when I woke up.  Brrrr cold.  Yet on Friday it is to be +9*C.  Big change. (15.8*F to 48.2*F) .  That will be good for the wood/oil burning.  If the melt is too fast we will get flooding.  One thing, the rise in temperature will cause the sap to run in the maple trees.  The syrup producers are getting into high gear now.

Have a great day everyone,  This is the day that the Lord has made let us rejoice and be glad in it!!!

Hi everyone.  Another beautiful day in Georgia and the temperature is already 64 degrees and it isn't even noon yet.  Pat and I have something to attend this morning and then we are going to Ruby Tuesday's for a nice lunch.  That will be the big activity of the day.

This morning I downloaded the new iBooks application for my iPod Touch and there were several free books so I downloaded a few of them.  I don't mind reading on the Touch although the screen is a lot smaller than the ebook reader. 

Janet, when my mother passed away she had been in the nursing home in Iowa for a couple of years and the minister at her church where my folks had lived for many years was no longer there.  Fortunately the new minister was a nice young man and he was agreeable to doing the service.  He did a good job considering he had never met her.  I am glad you found a minister to preach the funeral.  Do you have to line up pallbearers?  That was also a problem we had.  It was all worked out and things happened on schedule. 

Judy, what type of new truck will John be getting?  Will it have a better sleeping compartment?   

Ruth, certainly glad the surgery is past for Mel and that he didn't have to return to the operating room.  That would have been a bit discouraging. 

This pastor is one we (Darrel and I) know for a few years now, and respect.  He is very kind and loving, and asked me to think of what Scripture I wanted to use.  We see him often at the senior center, where he comes to help out in whatever ways he can.  So I feel comfortable about his doing the service.

And our new pastor who is coming soon called us yesterday to express his sympathy and regret that he cannot be here now.  He is a breath of fresh air!  Praise God!

Gotta run!  We are heading to Amarillo soon.

Janet ~ So sorry for not commenting on CP about Darrel's mother and her passing.  I read it on FB and commented there...I think.   :-[  I guess it was the lack of sleep, early in the morning, facing the drive to downtown Indy, not getting lost in the parking garage and finding the right room in the huge Federal Building that was on my mind yesterday morning AND posting the CP Valentine for you all!

No, I wasn't picked for jury duty.  Once I got to the room I was asked my name, mileage from home and the cost of the parking ticket at the garage.  There were 20 prospective jurors.  Only 7 were to be chosen.  After an orientation, we were lined up...like going to the restroom in grade school and went into the courtroom.  I did get to sit in the jury box.  Then we were all sworn in and the judge came in.  Tanya Pratt talked to us and asked questions.  If our answers were yes, we were to just raise our hands.  If answers were too personal we could ask to approach the bench and then the judge turned on white noise, the plaintiff attorney and the defense attorney went to the bench as well and the juror told their story, all while the court reporter was doing his thing.  It was a civil trial that was to be only one day and no more than two days.  Questions were asked about how we felt about the homeless and policemen, the town of Plainsfield, did we watch CSI, have you been in a lawsuit or have you sued anyone, etc.  The only time I spoke in the microphone was when we all were to tell our name, our marital status, our occupation  and our hobbies.  I thought...me being quiet is that good or bad?  Most of these other people have sued or been sued.  Or family members were.  Some had family members as policemen or friends...not me.  But when the plaintiff attorney and the defense attorney took their choices to the bench and the judge checked them out and said she would say 7 names and if your name was not called, you are free to leave!  I left! 

From what was said I am thinking that the plaintiff was a homeless person and was in a park in Plainfield in 2006.  The plaintiff was suing two policemen and the town of Plainfield because the two policemen used too much force or abuse to remove the man from the park.  I know there are good cops and bad cops but also feel that when a policeman says to do something you should do it without question.  But I didn't hear the whole story so I don't know what the outcome was.  Only saying this much because I am sure and positive the trial is over by now.

The drive home was so much better than the one going...it wasn't dark...I didn't have to be home at a certain time. 

So I decided to reward myself with a Chinese lunch at my favorite restaurant. 

I called Tony to see if he was home and took his jumper cables to him...we have seen each other 4 times and both forgot about them.  He goes back to work today!!  Yay! 

Then I came home and caught up online.  Inky and I took a nice nap in the afternoon, then had a big bowl of popcorn.  I watched The Bachelor and went to bed! 

And I didn't have to drive to downtown Indy today!  Yay!

This afternoon is Euchre.  Fun!

Goodnight all or good day if that suits your rtime zone.  We are going for two nights to visit friends - first a lunch tomorrow with 2nd. cousin & wife, then we will drive to dear friend's home (they have been here often to go to Mayo clinic treatments) and he is feeling well enough for a visit.  I am sure she wants to spend a day just with me and our yearly routine of hitting a few craft stores. 

JudyB:  I am just now starting to knit one of the two sleeves.  this is the most knitting I have ever accomplished. 

Janet:  You next days are going to be difficult.  Sending you a hug & a prayer. 

Hi everyone.  Suuppose to be another beautiful day and the weather gizmo on my computer says it is 64 degrees already this morning but another source says 42 degrees and that is more in line with the way it felt when I put out some trash a few minutes ago.

Today is Wednesday Bible study with the pastor and this evening is choir.  Our director is back from New York where she spent a week in a choral workshop.  She sent out a couple of reviews from the Sunday afternoon concert they gave at Carnegie Hall and they were superb.  There were 40 some from the Atlanta Symphony Chorus chosen to participate and they joined with some others to form the large choir.  When she is away for a few days we realize how much we miss her not being available to direct and guide us in our singing.

Etta Sue, I know it is both a relief and a disappointment not to be chosen for a jury.  Glad everything went well.  Hope you are thawing out up that way.

Carol, hope you have a delightful visit with your friends and find some new craft stores to check out.  You sound like my wife as she usually has done her internet research in advance of going somewhere so she can locate the quilt shops. 

Janet, I am keeping you and Darrel and your family in my thoughts and prayers as know these will be some tough days for you all.   

Yes, we are thawing out.  I can see brown grass again!  Still a lot of white but less and less white all the time.  I was determined to leave for Euchre by going out my side door.  I took a hammer and the snow shovel to the deck.  I hammered to break up the still 4" of ice and then pushed it off the side with the shovel.  Even then when I walked across to Ivalou's to drive her car, I slid on the ice over the grass.  So when I came home, I walked the driveways and the road. 

Jake's is here as I am typing...praying that this will be their last trip here.  It has been a long ordeal (7th trip) but hopefully a learning experience for them.  I see a large box in the back of their truck...perhaps they are going to replace the whole unit instead of a pipe where the freon is leaking!  I just know when I feel hot air coming out of the unit inside, the furnace thermostat will be lowered.  Enough of the high gas bills! 

Tonight is Bible study at church.  I got my Andy Stanley book in the mail.  He is a good writer, for sure.  And his videos keep your interest also. 

Bright and sunny here today!  It is 46 degrees right now and suppose to get to 51 degrees.  And it says the low tonight is to be 47 degrees.  Yes, the heat pump will be fixed.  I have said when the heat pump is fixed, the temperatures will rise!!

Janet, praying for you and Darrel and all the family.

Well Here I am, This has been a no make up, staying in my sweats all day, kind of day. I didn't have to go any place except to the Fitness Center this morning, I've worked on graphics for my groups most of the day. It is too cold to even take the dogs for their walks. It has been up and down in the low to mid 30s all day, with rain, sleet, a little sun and thunder. It really poured sleet for just a little bit but it left the street and the decks and grass white with  ice balls. I have been freezing all day long  and I have spent the day in the computer room with the heat on.

We have two of the bathroom sinks plugged up, Keith will go under the house this weekend and unplug them. I know it is my long hair, both sinks are on the same  pipes, so when one plugs up they both do. The sink in the main master bath has only had hot water for months, Keith wanted to change the fixture and can't get the old one off. So I have to wash my face and brush my teeth in the kitchen sink.

Yesterday we sprang a leak in one of the overhead neon fixtures in the kitchen, we took off the  covers and  the tubes started working.We  haven't put the covers back on because of the rain.

OK enough of our household problems,  Janet I am praying for you, Darrell and all the family including your mother and Beth.

Etta Sue I hope this was Jake's last trip to fix your heat pump. What did they end up doing, did they replace it.?

Hi everyone.  Another beautiful day and suppose to get to 70 degrees this afternoon.  In a little while we will head down to our daughter's apartment and meet her across the street at the Shepard's Center to have lunch and visit awhile.  It is a nice day for the trip.  That is all that is on my schedule for today and that is enough.

We had a very nice choir practice last evening.  Our director had been in New York for a workshop and concert at Carnegie Hall last week.  On Saturday afternoon she was leaving the Hall and took a misstep and fell.  She strained or bruised one ankle, hurt the other leg and also hurt her back.  She could hardly get around last evening and was in a lot of pain.  She already had a back problem so this didn't help at all.  She has fallen several times recently.

Marilyn, it sounds like you all have a full plate of household problems to deal with.  Have you thought of using a mesh screen to catch the hair before it falls into the drain?  Hope it warms up for you.

Etta Sue, hope they were able to get your heat pump fixed for good this time.  I am sure the repairmen must be very frustrated as well in not being able to solve the problem.  Did you win at Euchre?

Heat pump is fixed!!  YAY!!  I immediately turned down the furnace thermostat!  My house was comfy all night long even though, the outside temp never got below 50° all night!  And we still have snow and ice on the ground after above freezing temps for over a week!

The heat pump guys said it was a freon leak all along but when they checked for a leak they didn't find one.  They removed the freon and replaced it with nitrogen...still leaked.  They put high pressure on it and it still leaked but where was the leak?  Finally they found the leak...IN the compressor unit itself.  They checked from outside to compressor unit to the inside unit and no leak.  But they found it was leaking at a coil in the bottom of the compressor.  They replaced that coil and hot air came out of the unit!  Only on the 7th visit here.  And it was a win/win situation.  My unit was under warranty and since the leak was found IN the compressor, Jake's will get reimbursed for some of their cost as well!  Whew!  Glad that fiasco is over! 

Wednesday Night Live Bible study was last night.  I think people need reminders...there were only 7 of us last night but no email was sent out!  I really like Andy Stanley...his writing and his speaking.  He seems a little nervous but has a very quick wit about him.

Only laundry being done today and hopefully I can start my 'Then the Rain Came' book this afternoon.  Late start today.  I can't believe I didn't get out of bed until 9:30 this morning!  I missed half the morning!

Marilyn ~ It sounds like you had 'Dip 'n' Dots' on the ground at your place.  Neat looking, isn't it?  Little pebbles of ice!  That is why it is taking so long for our white stuff to thaw! 

Larry ~ It is always a win when I play Euchre.  We have so much fun!  But I did come out ahead and thanks for asking.

Ivalou just called.  She needs medicine at the drug store and that means going out to eat also!!  Whoo-ee!

Larry I was thinking of a mesh screen as well for Marilyn. 

It is a foggy day and appears to be +5*C (about 41*F)  our roof looks like it is raining.

Have a great day!

Light of the world
You stepped down into darkness
Opened my eyes, Let me see
Beatuy that made this heart adore you
Hope of a life spent with you

Here I am to worship
Here I am to bow down
Here I am to say that your my god
Youre altogether lovely
Altogether worthy
Altogether wonderful to me

King of all days
So highly exalted
Glorious in heaven above
Humbly you came to the earth you created
All for loves sake became poor

Here I am to worship
Here I am to bow down
Here I am to say that your my god
Youre altogether lovely
Altogether worthy
Altogether wonderful to me

I'll never know how much it cost
To see my sin upon that cross

Here I am to worship
Here I am to bow down
Here I am to say that your my god
Youre altogether lovely
Altogether worthy
Altogether wonderful to me

That is one of the "spiritual songs" that I enjoy.  How many times do we take our salvation for granted and forget what it cost our Lord to be our sacrifice.

Judy I love that song we sang it almost every Sunday in the church in California.
I am going to check at Walmart to see if they have those little dome shaped screens that fit over the drain.

My friends, thank you so much for your care and concern, and for the prayers.  I am glad Darrel and I were able to be in Amarillo to support his sister, who is frail both emotionally and physically.  She left the planning of the serv ice here up to me, and since we don't yet have our new pastor here, the first item was finding a pastor we know....and with God's help, I did.  He did a wonderful job; used personal anecdotes about Mother that I had written, the scriptures and poem I chose, and added a few remarks of his own.  I wanted to make it as easy as I could for him, since he had never met Mother.

Our church prepared a wonderful meal for us after the service, which was such a comforting, loving thing to do.  How  do people make it through this life without knowing the Lord, or without having a church family to help them through the tough times?

We are mostly resting today.  God has and will continue to sustain us.  He is our refuge and strength, a very present help in  times of trouble.  And I learned that Mother had accepted the Lord at the age of 17, so that was a great relief to me!  Praise God.

See you tomorrow.

QuoteHumble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7/KJV

This just caught my eye in the side bar. Sometimes I feel so humble before the Lord that all I can do is cry. It seems like every time I go to church all I do is cry when we are called to the front for prayer, and during the worship. I am fine during the sermon.

When I was putting on my make up before church Keith said "I don't know why you bother with  eye make up you are just going to cry it off"

How true, Judy - we don't often reflect on what it cost our Lord.  In fact, one thing we seldom realize is that our Lord, in suffering Crucifixions, was being accused of each and every sin we've committed - as though He were guilty!  And oh how He loved the father and would only do what glorified Him.  That's what broke His heart on that Cross - to be treated as though He had done those wrongs against His Father.  I think of J. S. Bach's famous words,

O blessed Jesu, how hast Thou offended,
That such a doom on Thee has now descended?
Of what midseed hast Thou to make confesseion -
Of what transgression?

And too Al we far too often don't count the cost to us to be believers.    It is not an easy path we are to follow to be like Him.

In fact, really, how can we be like Him?  We truly can't experience the depth of His love for sinners.  But we can begin to do so, a tiny bit.  Oh may He increase it in us!

Hi everyone.  This is going to be another beautiful day here in Georgia.  Still a bit overcast but should burn off before long and get into the 70s.

Went to coffee this morning and now have the rest of the day to work on some projects here in my office and rest.  I didn't feel up to par last evening and not too good this morning.  Northing serious, just minor discomfort but it tires me out quickly. 

Etta Sue, glad you got the heat pump fixed finally and that it was under warranty.  I know it has been an aggravation.  Hope the ice and snow are gone soon.

Janet, we experienced the kindness of the church ladies in serving us a fine meal after the services for my mother.  It gave us a chance to visit with the relatives and special friends who attended that we could not do at the funeral home or cemetery. 

It is February and we are getting our January thaw.  I really don't like the games the weatherman is playing, a promise of spring and then the temps will drop again and we will have snow....again.

John is in Guelph.  Unfortunately I doubt that he will be able to get together with Pat.  He has a meeting to attend and then a trip north. ;( but it will be good to have him home for a day or hopefully 2.

Had an email from Ruth.  Please keep her and Mel in prayer...he is in a lot of pain.

Have a great day everyone.

This week's promise: God is in charge of the world

Do You Sense God Working in History Today?

O God, declare [my enemies] guilty. Let them be caught in their own traps.

Drive them away because of their many sins, for they rebel against you.
Psalm 5:10 NLT

A refuge to rejoice

Things didn't look good for Martin Luther when he was summoned to Augsburg in late October 1518. He was being charged with heresy. Up to this point Frederick the Wise, elector of Saxony, had protected Luther from the church authorities, but now the prince was under pressure to withdraw his protection. It seemed only a matter of time before he would.

In Augsburg, Luther was asked, "If the elector of Saxony abandons you, where will you find shelter?"

The Reformer responded, "Under the shelter of heaven."

In the last part of Psalm 5, we find that David, like Luther, trusted in the Lord to rescue him from his enemies. Did the psalmist escape from the trap? We don't know, but the psalm closes with "joyful praises," because David knew that he was now surrounded by God's protection. Like Martin Luther, he found refuge under the shelter of heaven.

Under his wings, O what precious enjoyment!
There will I hide till life's trials are o'er.
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me;
Resting in Jesus I'm safe evermore.
WILLIAM O. CUSHING

What was going to be a lazy day yesterday turned out to be a busy day.  Ivalou needed meds at the drug store so we got those and ate at Woody's in Lapel.  We both decided we needed things that Lapel doesn't have so we went to WalMart in Noblesville. 

That means we didn't get back home until almost 3pm.  Then an email asked me to come to the preacher's home at 7pm for the Womens Retreat planning committee.  So I went.  The theme this year is 'Wonder Full World' with visiting all the continents.  I am in charge of Africa.  One thing we will be doing for Africa is getting the pre-cut material that is printed with 'God is Good' on fleece and making the blankets that you tie the edges.  Ruth Ann and Steve's son went to Africa last year and he said he could have the team that is going this year take our blankets to Kenya!  How neat to know that the blankets that we tie will go to Africa!  But now I want to find an animal print blouse or top to wear and maybe a straw hat with a band of animal print!  Our retreat is Mar 31-Apr 2.  A wonderful time with our Sisters.

Not much planned for today.  Kitty Skyped me and she is going to wash windows outside.  Not me!!  It is bright and sunny and only got down to 44 degrees last night but I noticed I still have a bit of snow at the end of my drive where the farmer piled up snow!  And this has been a week of above freezing temps now!

Oh, how I like the way my heat pump is keeping the house warm and comfy!

Hi Everyone...

Without internet, it's terrible.  My modem decided to quit and the technician came and installed a new one for me.  I think it's faster now going from page to page.

So glad that the church folks gave you a lovely meal, Janet.  This time of fellowship after the funeral service is such an important time to start to heal.


Vapor, it's so good to see you posting in here.  Thanks for the newsy post.


Ruth if you peek in, I'm remembering you and Mel in prayer.

Good Morning everyone. Good to see you posting again Pat.

Ruth If you happen to peek in I am praying for Mel and of course you too.

Etta Sue don't take any chances of slipping and falling on you deck to wash any windows.

I have been tot he gym and today I am going to do some house cleaning, vacuuming mopping etc. Friday is Take Out day. Keith wants to go to the Safeway deli for Chinese, I was thinking Subway for Spicy Italian subs. 

Thank you Judy for today's Promise.

Hello friends, I visited here last night I think it was and sort of caught up reading for the last few days.
I was too tired to post so I didn't sign in at that time.  My husband Earl was in hospital with congestive heart failure from Saturday until Wednesday afternoon, and at that time he was transferred to a rehab facility for 3 weeks of physical therapy.  He was so weak and unstable that he needs PT to gain strength and able to walk again.  While in hospital he was so full of fluids that they drained off a lot. He lost about 25 lbs. and is down to 130 now...he is skin and bones almost.  He is gradually improving though. 

Today is the first day that I have not gone where he is.  I was just so tired and weary, and my feet had been swelling every day, so I tried to rest today.  I am waiting for another doctor's call about that biopsy from last week at the dermatologist. If he needs further surgery it will just have to wait awhile.  He has had numerous skin cancers over the years. After that call comes in, I will go down to where he is. 

Janet, I am so sorry to hear about your MIL passing.  I know it is hard to let go, but also a blessing that our loved ones who know Christ as Savior are with the Lord after they leave this earth. 

Etta Sue, did you get called up for jury duty at federal court?  You said you had to go to Indy.   Our dtr has received notice she will be on call too, to go to Santa Fe for the April/May time period.

Greetings to all of you.  ~Janice

Back from Tucson and now I have a new problem - a chip came off my front tooth and it is the main tooth that hit the concrete when I fell in October.  It was right at the end of the work day - well, dentists were not answering here at 2:45 PM.  I hope to find a walk-in dentist tomorrow in Scottsdale.  My dinner was cooked noodles tonight. 

Sad phone call yesterday that a rather new friend lost her husband suddenly.  They are about to move into our neighborhood back home so she has a lot of changes ahead.  We have mutual friends & go to the same church. 

Janice:  Nice to hear from you.  We like to stay in Santa Fe on our trips to and from Arizona.  The courthouse is in such a picturesque area.  Good wishes to Mel for his therapy and I hope you can rest too. 

Janice so sorry to hear about Earl.  I will be praying for you both.

Hi everyone.  Just back from coffee and enjoying the beautiful weather we have today.  It is bright and sunny and is to warm up again into the 70s.  Nothing on my schedule today except will attend a meeting this morning and then take it easy the rest of the day.

Janice, it sounds like Earl is getting the help he needs and I hope he will soon be strong enough to walk.  I always worry about my wife when I am in the hospital as I think it is harder on her than on me sometimes.  Sure understand your being worn out.

Carol, always fun to have to get medical or dental attention in a new area.  Hope you found a dentist.

Marilyn, was it Chinese or Italian?  :) 

Pat, nice seeing you back on line.  When I have been without internet I have spent time each day at the library or Barnes & Noble utilizing their free internet service. 

Etta Sue, doing things on the spur of the moment sometimes turns into some very enjoyable days.  Your women's retreat sounds interesting.  It sounds like your planning went well.

Judy, hope John is able to spend a couple of days at home.  Sorry to read that Mel is suffering with his arm.

Larry it was neither, we both had the steak and Cheese  from Subway, I had mine on flat bread and Keith on Italian bread.

Marilyn ~ The only windows I have to go outside to clean are the outside door windows and the front window.  I use a squeegy for the front window and can reach the door windows just fine.  All the other windows I can clean both sides from the inside. 

Janice ~ Yes, it was Federal Court that I was called for jury duty but I wasn't kept...only stayed about 3 hours. 

I went to breakfast alone this morning to Woody's, to the bank to cash my Federal check for jury duty and to Dollar General for a couple of night lights...two burnt out this past week.  When I got home, I decided to wash my car windows...so dirty from all this snow and ice and dirty roads lately. 

I came in the house and noticed I missed a call from nephew, Aaron.  I called him back and he wanted to know if he could buy a stamp from me.  He came and we fixed up his letter to mail his check for the electricity off in the mail.  He found his bill in the snow where it blew out of his mailbox.  When anything is not routine, he gets so nervous.  He asked me to look at the check and the address on the outside since he couldn't used the envelope provided from the electric company and make sure everything was okay.  Bless his heart.  He was the nephew that when born the cord was wrapped around his neck.  They were told he wouldn't live to be 4 years old.  Aaron will be 34 this August, on this 15th year working as custodian at the local elementary school and is buying his own home where he lives alone.  He drives a moped to get where he wants to go.  He graduated from high school and is a blessing to whoever he speaks with.  He is a walking sports encyclopedia.  Ask Aaron about sports and he knows!

Anyway he didn't leave until after noon and now I am catching up online.

Ivalou has company this weekend.  Daughter, Teresa and her husband, Doug are there.  Also a pug named Mr. Jeeves.  Mr. Jeeves had to check me out while I was washing car windows.  He's so ugly, he is cute!!

I didn't really drop off the face of the earth.... just can't keep up with all the activity around here & IN here.  Been on the phone for over a week doing "leg work" to find my son the generator he wanted.  Nearly every place I called had a different price the 2nd time I called back, or had given me the wrong model number because they didn't know there are 2 generators with same numbers except for one word.  I don't mind doing all the calling, this son will drop whatever he is doing if we need him, so we go out of our way to not ask unless absolutely necessary.

Etta Sue, this son started out in the world like the nephew you talked about.  He was also born with the cord around his neck and had to be cut before he could get all the way out.  His lungs didn't inflate, he was blue, so was in an Isolette for 10 days.  The little ward nurse took him out to feed the 2nd day and nearly killed him so they had to "up the oxygen to a dangerous stage".  The doctor came in to tell me that he could be born "blind, deaf, mentally retarded or all of these things". 

For 2 years I was sure he couldn't hear because he didn't jump at noises.... thought he was "slow" because our daughter was talking at 5 months & he didn't, & so on.... but by the age of 2 I realized he was just a happy little boy, had allergies, but was out smarting his mother!  I have thanked God over & over for this blessing, he has such a good heart everyone that meets him, loves him.  I wish your nephew all the love in the world for the life ahead, everyone has challenges, it's learning to make the best of what we are.  My son had Perthes' Disease (balls in the hip sockets sluffed off until circulation was restored)... spent a total of 4 years in braces on his legs, the principal told me during his first grade that "the braces only slowed him down enough to learn."  He has a degree in electrical engineering and has done things that engineers around the world couldn't.  But like your nephew, coping with life is never easy. 

Been trying to catch up on all the posts... hugs to all.  God Bless!

Etta Sue and Tisie, thanks for the encouraging stories about your special guys.  The human spirit is a wonderful thing, so resiliant!  Beth continues to be a wonder to me--how she keeps such a great attitude and stays so happy in spite of her physical condition.  She keeps saying, "One of these days  I will WALK down the aisle to become John's wife!"  I pray her dreams will come true.

I was supposed to be in my portrait class all this coming week; howeve I think I'm going to have to miss it this time.  We need to go to Amarillo to help clear out Mother's apartment, then later to Los Lunas to help move Curt and Toni back to Kansas.  Sigh.....  Too much all at once.

Janet don't take on too much.  Your energy reserves are already low you son't want to depleate them much further.

Etta Sue Mr Jeeves sounds like he could be the hilight of your day.  Dogs really do have personality.

Tissie nice to see you here.  I enjoyed the story of your son, 

Marilyn I hope you enjoyed your steak and cheese dinner. 

Larry I wish I had your temps.  I have been freezing all evening!

Night all, John is home so I am off here,

Etta Sue and Tisie:  Thank you for writing about your very special guys in your lives.  They should be proud of their achievements.

Larry:  I am waiting for Monday morning appointment.  I had to tell the truth that the tooth wasn't hurting but I am being so careful because it sure is iffy.  Being open Saturdays does not mean that you can get in without paying an Emergency Fee.  Our family doesn't consider many things an emergency. 

I picked up a Jan Karon book from the library and we have a load of movies borrowed as well.  It is a rainy and very windy time and no malls in the area so we just feel too chilly outdoors.  While we are here in Arizona, our sons are high in the mountains snowmobiling and other outdoor activities.  I don't know if we even want to take our snowshoes out anymore and it was always so enjoyable.  Time for knitting and reading meanwhile. 

Janice, it's so good to see you on here and Tisie too.

Janice, I'm sorry to read what you've been going through with Earl.  As Larry says, "looks as if he's getting the treatment now that he should be getting".  That's good.  Please keep us posted.

Mobiles vs THE BIBLE

I wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our mobiles?

-What if we carried it around in our handbags or pockets?
-What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
-What if we flipped through it several times a day?
-What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
-What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
-What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
  -What if we used it in case of an emergency?
-What if we got it out to show our skill in knowing how to use it?
-What if we groaned when we dropped it?
-What if we always had it close for easy access?
Oh, and one more thing....

Unlike our mobiles, we don't ever have to worry about our Bible being         
disconnected, because Jesus already paid the bill!

Pat: So true!!!

Dear CP friends: In prayer for all your needs.

Janet, I am sorry, I did not see that Darrel's dear Mother passed away. I am sorry and praying for all of you. I so often think and say what you said: How in the world do people make it with out trusting our wonderful Lord!

Ruth, How is Mel doing? I hope continuing to heal.

Judy, Thank you for the reminder, under God's shelter! I love that song, Here I am to Worship!

Etta Sue, I am so glad your heat pump is fixed!

Larry, I hope you are doing better, Glad you had that special fellowsip with church family after the service for your mother.

Marilyn, I know the humbling peace is wonderful!

AL, You are so right! We do not think enough about the price Jesus paid for us! I am reading the book Slave by John MacArthur, it really has me thinking about the price God paid and how we do not really honor and serve Him the way we should!

Janis, I am sorry your husband is having such a time, glad he is doing better, I hope he is continuing to recuperate quickly. How are you, putting those feet up as much as possible I hope.

Pat, Thank you for the welcome! New Modems can be such blessings! Where I live there is only 2 choices for fast Internet, Charter I had for years, service would be good for several days then go out several times a day for days. I finely got tired of bad service and continuous price rising and switched to ATT. It was wonderful for a couple weeks then starting going out a lot, and then I got the bill! $150. more than they said first month! 2nd month $100. more! They told me my bill was going to go down, because of a bundle special! I am on the 3rd month now and it is sill a lot more! And I have spent hours on the phone with them.

Carol, Sorry to hear of your tooth, did you get to see a dentist? I had a bad dentist visit this week! Sorry to hear of your friend's loss. The name vapor is to remind me we do not know how short this life is James 4:14 (and that the next one is forever!) I had no idea that most people use thier real name here!

Pat, I love the Mobiles vs THE BIBLE! So true!

Tisi, How blessed to have a son like yours!

Ruth V, Thank you for praying for everyone!

The weather has been so beautiful this week!
I had a horrible dentist visit Monday. He was in a hurry to go to lunch and did not wait for numbing shots to work for a filling. I thought I was going to pass out. Then he said it was under the gum line and big so I really need a crown. I am not doing any more crowns or permanent bridges, I have dry mouth, they do not stay tight, food gets under it and rots teeth so then I end up with oral surgery trying to get them out.
I was still felling week by Friday and noticed a fungal rash on my stomach so I went to doc, she said she thinks it might be starting to get a bacterial infection to and since I am felling so bad I should take booth anti fungal and antibiotic. When I picked them up at pharmacy the antibiotic is one that made me very sick when I took it several years ago.  Pray for wisdom of taking these meds, remembering when to take, etc. Thank you.
The doc gave me a brace for my arm for tendinitis to, but one plastic thing was broke off so I had to fix it! Sew it. Better than having to buy one. :)
Between the Tendinitis and this lap top jumping back to the middle of previous words I spend a lot less time on the Internet!
My 4 year old grandson called me 2 times this week! :) The second time to tell me all about the Charlie Brown cartoon, he knows I love Charlie Brown cartoons. :) My 1 and a half year old granddaughter said Hi and blew kisses! :) I got to see and hear my 4 month old granddaughter in a video on facebook! :)
My 14 year old grandson called me to read the Bible to me, because I cut his cell phone off. We had an agreement I would get him a cell phone and keep it on if he would call and read a chapter of the Bible to me every day. Some times he forgets. (It is wonderful to be able to cut it off and on over the Internet!)
I hope everyone has a wonderful Sunday and week! Lifting everyone in prayer!

I doubt if Vapor has seen the illusion above.  Keep watching it and get a surprise!

I am all ready for church.  Today and next Sunday are my days to run the projector system so I need to go in a half hour early.  It is getting easier and easier...or at least, I am not freaking out when I make a mistake! 

I don't know what else is on for today.  Ivalou will probably go out to eat with Teresa and Doug.  I will probably go with some ladies at church. 

Also I crocheted a pair of Mary Jane's for baby Ellie...the Youth Minister, Brad and his wife, Krista's baby.  Hope she likes them and keeps them on!

Hi everyone.  Have had breakfast and am ready for church but it is still awhile before we leave.  We are suppose to have another beautiful day.  Yesterday was down right warm but beautiful. 

After my meeting yesterday morning I went to lunch with a friend.  Pat and her friend were making a trip to the quilt shop and went to O'Charley's for lunch.  So there was no need for her to fix dinner.  She had a carry home from her lunch and I was still full from my lunch.  I had a nice nap and then a quiet evening.  I finished reading the Sherlock Holmes story "The Study in Scarlet".  I really enjoyed it and have several more of the Sherlock Holmes book on my ebook reader.  I have done more reading since I started reading ebooks than I have in several years.  I think I have over 200 books I picked out on the ebook reader from the free books available from various sources.  I can also read books on my iPod Touch and find that quite enjoyable.  That open up the books from the library to be downloaded.  I have yet to buy a book and Pat gave me a gift card for my birthday to do that very thing. 

Lot's of interesting posts since I posted yesterday morning.  Pat, I got lost on your piece about mobiles and the Bible.  Is the mobile a cell phone?  That is not a familiar term for me.

Vapor, it sounds like you might want to find another dentist.  It doesn't seem that he treated you very well.

Janet, hope is a wonderful motivator.  It is so sweet that Beth is anticipating being able to walk down the isle to meet John at the altar.  I am sure she has played this out many times in my mind's eye.  Who knows, God performs miracles.

Tisie, nice to see your post.  It sounds like you have been very busy. 

Etta Sue, it sounds like Aaron would be a neat person to get to know.  He obviously care a lot for you and has a lot of respect in asking you to help him be sure he had his bill envelope correctly done. 

Well, hope everyone enjoys today and takes time to enjoy God's many gifts to us that are all around us. 

Good day everyone. Not much going on around here. WE have been to Walmart to do some weekly shopping and I can't believe how high the prices are getting. $3.48 a gallon for regular gas. We don't buy our gas there. But prices were up on the things we did buy.

God is good and in control of everything.

Marilyn you are not up to our price yet, we are at 4.43 per gallon.

Larry I am craving your weather.  Can't wait.  It seems I can't get warm this weekend.  I am contemplating another hot shower to warm up!!

I am heading to rest my shoulder and arm.  Bumpy roads have done me in.  The frost heaves on the road we travel are horrendous.  We had that thaw in December and then the hard frost. 

Services were good today.  Pastor was speaking on the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit worked in the Old Testament. Very interesting study.

I am off  Have a good day everyone.

Time to start a new week  Here (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=11490.msg160448#msg160448)