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!

• See the last photos uploaded to our Gallery (http://www.christianphotographers.com/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=lastup&cat=1)

 



Morning Devotional...


"Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound. And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and entreated him." Luke 15:27-28

How difficult it is to understand the reaction of the elder brother on this joyous occasion, the return of the prodigal son. The outburst of anger, pride, resentment, jealousy, and discontent was the outward manifestation of what was inside the heart of the elder brother all the time. It simply took this occasion to bring it to the surface. How true is the Word, "The heart is deceitful above all things...who can know it" (Jeremiah 17:9). Unknowingly, we harbor attitudes and feelings within our heart. Look at the attitude and reaction of the older brother on this occasion and the disastrous consequences that resulted from his selfish judgment.

When invited by the father to join in the celebration, he refused. When they rejoiced in the prodigal's repentance, he boasted of his blameless and meritorious conduct. His self-centeredness was very evident. With anger, he proclaims that sufficient respect had not been given him. He rehearses with malicious exaggeration the misconduct of his brother. Because the feast was not in his honor, he found no pleasure in it. How sad, lonely, insecure, ungrateful, and discontented is one's life that is primarily concerned with its own selfish interests. Self-righteousness frequently is accompanied by a thousand evil tempers, personal conceit, a supercilious contempt of others, and a rooted aversion to grace and mercy as God's way of salvation.

It is a self-imposed bondage from which one will suffer the heartache of not knowing the joy and eternal blessing of giving, sharing, loving, reaching out to be a companion in need, and being an encouragement to others.

What a radical difference it is to experience the exchanged life. The Lord makes all things new and sits upon the throne of our hearts in full authority as our Sovereign Lord. Then it is not I, but Christ. It's no longer what I want, but what He desires of me. My heart focuses on the Lord, who is my life. What an exchange! What a different outlook, because of the change within wrought by the Holy Spirit. Our whole perspective on life is changed toward ourselves, others, and God!

Let's look at the reaction of the father. I must say this was a very special, long-suffering, gracious father. As he had dealt with the sin of the prodigal son in his departure, so now he deals with the pride and obstinacy of his envious and jealous brother. Notice, the father does not send a servant, but goes out himself to invite his son to the feast. He informs his son that nothing that he desired would be withheld from him. Nothing would be more gratifying to him than for both of his sons to partake of the same happiness and share in the same joy, united in the same bond of love and brought together in a oneness of spirit that would glorify God. Oh that we may choose to live under the blessing of the Lord, get self out of the way, and let Christ be our all in all. Receive from Him the bounties of His love, and appropriate the riches of His grace, while seated at the Father's table. It is His covenant with us, because we are now in Christ. Don't let "self" rob you of God's best for you.

© 2007 by Ed Powell.

Quote from: Marilyn on May 04, 2008, 09:29:22 PM
I'm Back, had a very ice weekend. Made a short call to Nita to ask how Rocko was doing? He hasn't been well lately. Still trying to catch up on my reading, just wanted to tell you that I made it home safely although I did get a speeding ticket coming back home.

Hmmmm  made a call to Nita but not to Jane ...   :(  Oh well, I guess I'll forgive you (especially since you got a speeding ticket ... You must've been in a hurry to get home to your furkids.   :)

Hi everyone.  Pat that was a very good devotional.  Unfortunately I have had personal experience with the Prodigal child situation and have a sense of the joy when the child returns, whether a physical or mental separation. 

It is another beautiful day with low humidity and it will be bright and sunny today.  The housekeeper is coming today so by tonight we should have a nice clean house.  I have an appointment that will take up the morning.

Marilyn, glad to see that you are safely home, if a bit poorer from the speeding ticket.  Glad you had a nice time and I am sure your dogs were glad to see you back.

LIz, hope you enjoy another nice day up your way. 

Judy, sorry to read you have come down with a cold.  This is a bad time of the year for one, although anytime is never right for a cold.

Jane, I agree with you and certainly didn't consider Pat as being old anymore than I consider myself old.

Etta Sue, it is probably those days you don't want to go to church that you will benefit most from it. 

It is going to be a busy day so guess I had better get started,

The parable of the prodigal son is one we in prison ministry use extensively.  Early on we learned that it's important to use BOTH the sons as an example.  Folks often blow by the older son that stayed at home but, there is a lesson to be learned from him as well.  Many of Christ's parables are only half-told/taught.  It's important to get "the rest of the story" out to put things in perspective.

Yes Jane I was anxious to get home but truthfully I did not see the sign and my  mind was elsewhere on the dogs. Mimi told me that they really missed me and I could sure tell that when I opened the door and and they greeted me. Sorry that I did not call you my cell was getting low on battery and I think you may have been at church at that time. Really Jane no excuse is good enough.

We went shopping at Wal*mart and the weather was super, a little wind but warm. When we came out of Wal*Mart the clouds were dark, the wind had picked up and it was cold.We went back to the   house and built a fire and watched a DVD movie. He chopped more wood and I made spaghetti sauce and a cake.

I have to go  buy a few groceries today as I pretty much ate everything edible before I went to Oregon. Not even any milk for my oatmeal this morning so I will eat a chicken sandwich for breakfast.  :-[

TTYL

I'm so happy that you, Larry and Gary, enjoyed this week's devotional.  It really blessed my heart when I read it and thought I'd share with everyone here.  What a wonderful God we have!

Thanks, Pat, for the devotional this morning/week. I didn't comment last night but I did read and enjoy it.   <3

Marilyn, I didn't go to church yesterday.  I really enjoy the teaching ministry of our pastor, but he wasn't teaching yesterday.  There was a guest speaker there and I just didn't feel impressed to go.  Mike (pastor) will begin a teaching journey through the book of the Revelations next week.  It may take the rest of the year and then some.  He just finished the book of Luke two weeks ago and he'd begun it over a year ago!  ???

Actually, I kinda thought you would use a local phone to call (Keith's?) since yours would be long distance.  You were at Wal-Mart?  So was I.   :o

Not much happening around here today ... that's a good thing.  Pretty overcast and prediction of "possible showers" later today.  That's not so unusual, either .... This is Oregon in the Springtime! 

Great devotion, Pat.  Both sons were wayward in their own way.  I try my best not to let jealousy enter into me.  It is hard not to have grandchildren to dote upon but there is nothing I can do about that so I must accept it.  I just borrow others... ;)

I have a book titled 'The Book of God' with a subtitle of 'The Bible as a Novel'.  It is written by Walter Wangerin, Jr.  I read it when I was a baby Christian and now that I am maybe a teen Christian, I decided to read it again.  Since I saw the musical about Joseph, reading about Joseph in this book gave me better perspective.  Now I am reading about Moses.  It is really fast reading. 

I got a call from the doctor's office about my echo-cardiogram.  I have a slight blood backup...the blood flows backwards a tad bit.  But no further testing or doctor's appointments and no added medications.  Continue as I was.  Good news.  God is good! 

It is to get to 75° so I have all the windows open and the breeze is running through the house.  Nice to hear the birds chirping and singing.  It is a bit chilly right now but will warm up! 

This afternoon I will be calling the 60 Chix that don't have email about lunch Thursday at noon.  The restaurant needs a count so they can have tables set up for us. 

Hi again folks...

Just waiting here for a couple of important phone calls so thought I'd check in.  I just spent some time looking at the awesome photos in our newest challenge suggested by Karma!  Wow!  We have some great photographers on this site!

Yes, Etta Sue, jealousy could eat a person up and we much always avoid it.

Really good news from your doctor. 

Taking a quick break - our friends left about noon on their way to Minnesota.  The grands we had for two days & everyone really enjoyed the musical "Cats".  Now back to prep work for a person is coming through on Thursday. 

Pat:  Thank for devotions.  Looking at self - Last week, I was lamenting the fact that a wealthy cousin in Seattle did nothing to their house, stuck out a sign and a couple from China (working for Microsoft) immediately bought their place & has gutted the interior of the house & even added on.  My dear husband said to me, "you would never want her life, would you?" Of course not - she lives one of the most predictable lives ever & never meets anyone new - she also is judgemental of everyone. 

Al:  It really helps me to come in here and "find myself" - thanks for your comments. 

Larry:  Do hope that Pat has the right  B.P. meds and everything is helpful to her.  This a showplace?  Not a chance - the agent wants focus on the view though and less furniture helps. 

Janet:  How wonderful that Beth has had a lot of fun visiting lately and now she is even able to wear shoes.  Blessings to you!

Gordon:  It sounds like super news for your grandson! 

Gotta go - beautiful day here now that winter just possibly ended.

Hi y'all.

Got back yesterday from a weekend get away for our anniversary.  We went on a Dinner/Dancing cruise on the Mississippi River!  I thoroughly enjoyed, but Terry is not much into dancing.  But he took me anyway!  What a guy! <3 <3 <3

I'm not much of a photographer, but I got a few pictures of sunsets.  They are pretty to me if no one else.  The land is the state of Arkansas, not sure about what city claims the land though.

Enjoyed the devotion, sometimes I feel like the brother who stayed (selfish selfish me :ticked:)   Thanks for the reminder.

Later,
Samantha 8)

Those are great photos Samantha, I really love sunsets.

Jane what church do you go to? Keith goes to Christian Missionary Alliance, on Johnson when he does go. When I use my cell phone it isn't long distance because I am charged the same amount every month. I couldn't find his  cordless phone at the time. Yep we were at Wal*Mart about noon or there about on Saturday.

Quote from: Marilyn on May 05, 2008, 06:54:29 PM
Those are great photos Samantha, I really love sunsets.

Jane what church do you go to? Keith goes to Christian Missionary Alliance, on Johnson when he does go. When I use my cell phone it isn't long distance because I am charged the same amount every month. I couldn't find his  cordless phone at the time. Yep we were at Wal*Mart about noon or there about on Saturday.

I usually go (with my neighbors) to Shoreline Community Church which meets in the Seventh Day Adventist church (next to Wal-Mart).    I was at Wal-Mart for most of the morning on Saturday, but I think earlier than you were there.

I know where that Seventh Day Adventist church is, Keith  designed part of that church. He showed it to me the first time I was up there. That is not far from his house.

Samantha, those are lovely photos! 

I so enjoy the way our Creator paints the sky!

Quote from: Marilyn on May 05, 2008, 08:40:48 PM
I know where that Seventh Day Adventist church is, Keith  designed part of that church. He showed it to me the first time I was up there. That is not far from his house.

I know... that's why I said he is in my neighborhood the first time you mentioned where he lives.  If you mentioned to him I live in Shore Pines he would know exactly where that is, too!

Thanks Marilyn, that means a lot to me <3

I didn't know he lived so close to you. I will mention that to him. Wow I am so glad to know that.

you are quite welcome Samantha.

Samantha, how long were you away?  Did you stay on the boat?  As I said above, sunsets are just beautiful times of the day.  Love them.

Sunsets are beautiful, and my most favorite time of the day immediately follows sunset - when the sky is still lit and all the shadows of the evening are falling. To me, that's when the world seems so still and quiet, as if God is tucking us into bed for the evening. :)

Again, I'm mighty tired, so won't stay long tonight.

Jealousy  is a difficult problem to deal with and sad as often leads to anger and bitterness that blinds a life.  We have seen that in my sister and she is only beginning at this late stage in life to realize she had it for no reason.  I am grateful our children have all grown away from those problems.   I think they learned big lesson's from their aunt and sadly their cousin who has carried on this sad problem.

Our house is on the market now and we may have a buyer only on contingency so far but we are hoping.   Now just being patient until  it is the right time and person. We are still cont. to show the house.  So many strange events going on around the world I often looke up and say come quickly but then think of how many I pray to be saved.   Still come quickly Lord Jesus.  aw

Hi Alice!

It's so nice  to see your post.  I'm so glad you have a buyer.  It's awful sitting waiting and waiting.  I pray that it won't be long.

Hi everyone.  It is suppose to be another beautiful Georgia morning and eventually get to the lower 80s.  We still haven't had to turn our air conditioning on.  It does get pretty warm around 5 pm but doesn't last too long and the humidity has stayed down.  They were saying yesterday the city is suppose to have bad air quality today but we live 30 miles out so don't too often experience that. 

I have a light schedule today.  I will attend a meeting this morning and then the day is clear.  Of course, will go up to coffee shortly and then we will likely walk at the gym.  I have found that about 10 laps is all I seem to be able to do without causing chest pain and residual tiredness for the day.  So that is what I do with some resting a couple of times during the process.

We have a nice clean house as the housekeeper was here yesterday.  I am going to have to call a plumber today as we have a couple of drains that are slow and another plumbing problem as well. 

I have read all the posting since yesterday.  However, since I can't think of much to say will just sign off for today. 

Good Morning Larry!

I can't even imagine your house being dirty at all for a house cleaner to clean!!!  :)

It's a beautiful day here too.  Yesterday I had my windows open throughout and got the winter air changed.  This was the first time to open them and they were open all day.  It was lovely!

My goodness folks!

Have you been to view the entries that are being entered for our challenge?

Karma sure chose a subject that was just wonderful and I have no idea how we'll all vote for this challenge to be sure!

HAVE A LOOK! (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=6888.0;all)

Pat, we were only gone overnight, but it was great to get away from it all, and the kids got to spend the night with their grandparents.  We spent the night at a nice hotel.  The boat was just dinner and dancing but the meal was great and the dancing was fun!  We haven't been dancing since Terry got saved in 93.  (Dancing is for heathens!Just kidding!.)  We did the line dancing and slow dancing and really just had a great time together.(https://www.christianphotographers.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbestsmileys.com%2Fdancing%2F7.gif&hash=f2ae344ecd0c280db6cfaee21d4c9c3828adbf81)  There was another couple there celebrating their 30th anniversary, so they played a few slow songs for them and us too.

The menu was so good, prime rib, roasted potatoes, green beans, rice, shrimp creole, rolls, and of course dessert.  And it was my favorite - all you can eat, and boy can I eat!!!  (https://www.christianphotographers.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbestsmileys.com%2Feating1%2F15.gif&hash=44b1dab628a74da0105a5c0802b91b95ceb4bae4)

I'm trying to get out and take more photos, but can't seem to get with the program.


Marilyn, sounds like you had a great time on your trip this weekend. 

Enough of my rambling,

Later,
Samantha :)

Well, I have a sparkling white deck.  I would scrub awhile, sit awhile, then hose it off.  Then squeegie it.  And then do it again.  Bless her heart, Ivalou called when I got done and asked me if I would like to come have pizza with her.  So I didn't have to cook last night. 

But I was so tired.  And I didn't get to bed until late.  The furgirls wanted me up at 7 something but I went back to sleep when they gave up and I finally got up at almost 10am!!  I must have been sleeping good!!  I ate breakfast and read my devotions on the deck at my bistro table.  So nice to hear the birdies.  Quiet..not so much.  The sod farmer was cutting sod so it was clickety-click.  And big gravel trucks were on my road today. 

Then Ivalou called and wanted to know if I wanted to go to Lapel for lunch.  So we went.  When I got home, I got in my car and went to the elementary school and voted.  Today is voting day in Indiana. 

As soon as I got home, I changed clothes and mowed the grass.  Once again the yard looks great.  Tomorrow those pesky dandelions will pop up again. 

I have all the windows open.  Funny, it is 76° in here but I am chilled sitting here in the breeze and the ceiling fan on.  WeatherBug says it is 80°.  Nice weather! 

Samantha, what a lovely evening!  That meal sounds yummy for sure.

Hi Etta Sue. 

Samantha, your evening/night out sounds just lovely!  Good for you and Terry, good for the kids, good for the grandparents, too.  I enjoyed your sunset photos.

Etta Sue, good for you, getting the deck bleaching done.  Feels good to have it done, huh?  I still haven't recovered from working too hard on Saturday.  Sore muscles, for sure!  But I don't regret it, had to get it done, and the sooner, the better, I feel.

Larry, you wondered about the stairs and the garage.  This building is a metal, farm shed type of structure, and part of the inside is two stories.  Not the garage, it is ground level.  But there are actually two upstairs sections, one houses Darrel's office and my framing room, the other a huge bedroom and storage area.  Clear as mud?   ;)

We went to Garden City today to look at an alarm job.  The lady is buying a restaurant---and talk about a filthy mess!!  My goodness.  She had lots of people in there cleaning, scrubbing, putting up new sheetrock, working on plumbing, etc. and the sign on the door said they will be open on Friday of this week!!  If so, they are miracle workers!  Then again, on Extreme Makeover, Home Edition, they destroy an old house and build a new one complete in only one week!  So it is possible.  Darrel told her he will wait until later to install the alarm, though.  ;)

I don't have to work at Park View until Thursday, and I am glad.  Tomorrow the Red Hats are meeting at the Main Artery (art gallery) where we will be served lunch and treated to some kind of art demonstration.  Should be fun!

I'm feeling kind of antsy because I didn't get much accomplished today.  Why is that?  Why should I feel guilty if I'm not working almost every waking moment?  I hate that, and am still trying to get past it; have been for many years.  I know it's a hold-over from my childhood, but still can't completely shake it.  :-\

I called a dear friend in the next town this morning, as we planned to stop by and see her husband in the hospital.  She said he is failing fast, doctor said to call the kids, and they were going to put a "no visitors" sign on his door.  I'm so sad about that.  He is a wonderful guy, would do anything for you, has gone on missions trips at least once a year (often more) for the past 20 years or so.  It's so tough on his wife...... :'(

On a happier note, Beth called to say John sent her roses, "Just because he loves her" and she wants me to come see them.  :)

Janet, how lovely of John to do that.  I hadn't heard his name for awhile and wondered if he was still in the picture.  ;)

That's sweet for John to send Beth the roses, Janet.

I met with yet another insurance representative about their offering for my after-Medicare insurance coverage. Yikes! I may have to get a job to afford my medications.  :(

Etta Sue, it's always good to read your posts - lots going on in your life, and thoroughly enjoy hearing about it.

Well, I'm saddened tonight - I heard that my insurance man (and former minister of music) committed suicide today. There's nothing but shock and disbelief all through our community at the news. He and his wife and daughters are deeply committed Christians. I wonder if he had some sort of mental lapse or something that would drive him to do such a thing.

Well, it's late and I must find something to eat. Y'all have a nice evening.

Jane called me today to let me know the baby swans have arrived.  She had told me the swan on the lake near her was nesting.  They were all waiting.

I went over and took pictures of the family, in case anyone wants to see them. Click on the Baby Swans album to see them using the slide show option.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/nita_hrnr/

Ohhh, Nita.  How lovely.  I love that one you called "Proud Mama"

 :)  Well good evening to all.  I have read Pat's devotional  and thanks Pat for it it is a story that I have heard preached on in so many differen't ways.

Thank you Pat for my birthday greeting and it has been a birthday that I soon won't forget.  Last night as I was  at my computer it was like I got a message in my mind that my best friend would either call today or he would show up at my place in the morning and the second one happened.  He cancelled all his appointments for the day and arrived at my front door this morning at 10-30 a.m. and he had his scottish towel that looks like a kilt on around his waist and also a scottish jock hat on well talk about preminitions this one came true.   We had such a good day and did so many things and this is what I needed to get me going since I had my Angina attack.  We went riding our bikes then we had lunch then my wife and I and Doug all went to the Y.M.C.A and did aquatics in the pool and then my friend and I went and worked out for 3/4 of an hour sssso we had a good time.

Then my wife took us out for dinner to a beautiful restaurant which has a lot of natural food and used many types of organic things.
So it turned out to be a great day.  Praise the Lord for a wonderful day.

Larry:  If you are getting pains when you are doing the track you need to do only five laps then rest and then do some more and that is what the  Heart and Stroke  Foundation staff tell there clients.  So please look after yourself.

Well I must go as my son-in-law wants me to come and play golf on the t.v. and it looks so real.  Good night and God Bless you all. :coffee:

Good Morning Everyone!

Here it is the middle of the week already!  Time is flying past for me right now!  So much to do and so little time to do it.

Hi everyone.  Nothing much new here.  We have Bible Study this morning and then have to get home right afterward as have the air conditioning man coming to check the unit for the summer season and also the plumber is coming about the same time to attend to a couple of problems that have developed.  Nothing too serious I think but will still be expensive.  I have used the services of both of these men since moving into this house.

Gord, it sounds like you had a wonderful day yesterday and I hope it truly lifts your spirits.  On my walking I am doing three laps and then resting, another three or four and resting and then the final laps to bring me to 10.  I am getting along pretty good with that plan.

Nita, those are sure cute pictures.  The little ones are so cute and the swans so stately.

Ruth Ann, I am sure that was a terrible shock to all you knew the man and his family.  We just cannot know what goes on in the mind of an individual or what brings them to that breaking point.  

Janet, it sounds like you need to give yourself permission to have days when you don't have to accomplish something all the time.  You deserve rest and relaxation and those things that need doing will almost always wait and in the long run won't make much difference whether done to today, tomorrow or next week.  It was nice of John to send the roses and know it means very much to Beth.

Etta Sue, I called the man we have had pressure wash our house a couple of times.  I haven't heard back from him so hope he is still in business.  He does this work when he is off from the fire department so well could have been working yesterday.

Samantha, that sounds like a very nice evening and a nice break for you and your husband.  I know what you mean about buffets.

Pat, our house usually doesn't get more than dusty and a little cluttered but it is always nice to have everything cleaned well at one time.  

Time to leave for Bible study.  Hope everyone has a wonderful day.

Have a wonderful day, Larry.

Please give Pat a big hug for me.  You both are very special to me.

Good Morning everyone (all y-all).

Gord your day sounds like it was very special for you and will be remembered for along time.

Nita the Swans are so beautiful and the little ones  awfully cute. Good that Jane called to tell you about them.

Please pray for Keith's ex wife  Nola, she has Uterine cancer and is having surgery today. His youngest son  told Keith yesterday.

Janet I am glad to hear that you are feeling better after all the work you did  on Friday, sorry to hear about your friends husband.

Ruth Ann one never can comprehend another's reason for suicide. It all just seems so terrible.

TTYL

I'm sure we've all heard of the cyclone on Burma...

Here's an email about it that I receive regularly.



Dear Mrs. Scott,

I am in India right now and feel that I must share a very serious situation with you. The news from Burma (Myanmar) is desperate. Reports estimate more than 22,000 people died in the recent cyclone, with another 41,000 missing. At 2:30 a.m. on Saturday, winds of 120 mph and walls of water devastated the southern part of the country.

In Rangoon (Yangon), Burma's largest city, our Bible college suffered heavy damage, and we are still trying to find out just how many of our 400 churches and 250 mission stations have been destroyed.

The suffering of the people is unimaginable. Hundreds of thousands, perhaps millions, are homeless. Food is in short supply, and prices are skyrocketing. Electricity may be out for months. People have lost literally everything.

Yet God is also opening miraculous doors, and you can make a difference.

In a land where Christians are a small minority, we are now being asked to help. Where official government policy has banned relief work by non-governmental organizations, the police in Rangoon have come to our Bible college, openly seeking assistance.

Refugees from a nearby orphanage and even Buddhist monks have come looking for food and shelter. And of course, we are doing everything we can to minister to them in the name of Jesus.

Because communications are down and transportation crippled, we do not yet know how many of our Christian brothers and sisters have lost their homes. But we do know that, regardless of their own suffering, they are volunteering to share the love of Christ with those who have lost everything—and who have no hope.

But these battered believers need your help—not only to rebuild their own lives, but to provide the emergency supplies that will bring life and hope to those around them.

Please click here (http://links.mkt561.com/ctt?kn=1&m=1064932&r=NTE2NDU0Njg0MQS2&b=0&j=MTA3MTI5MzE0S0&mt=1) to send what you can today to support their sacrificial work. Your gift will make a huge difference in the lives of those who are suffering so terribly, and it will bring them the hope that can only be found in Christ.

Thank you for your love and compassion.

Yours for the suffering of Burma,

K.P. Yohannan
Founder & President

Please read this:

Surviving Cyclone Nargis (http://www.gfa.org/survived-cyclone-nargis)

Well, since I have worked hard the past two days, I am taking a day off today.  Not planning on doing much of anything.  Just picking up and piddly jobs. 

Tomorrow is 60 Chix.  We are going to a restaurant in Noblesville that I have never been to.  We need a count so they will be ready for us and so far 8 of us.  Nice small group. 

I have been mulling it over in my head to have the entire class and their spouses come here in July and have a picnic back in the woods.  First I need to ask Kaye Don since it is his woods and to see if we can use cut wood back there.  It's really a no-brainer picnic.  I will furnish the condiments and perhaps plates and plastic ware and each person would bring what they want to fix over the fire, chairs to sit in, their own drinks and a dish to share.  And also tell them to not wear anything they don't want to get dirty.  We now have water...not drinking water but clean up water and a restroom (toilet) back there.  So what else would we need? 

The sun is peeking out from the clouds right now.  It was raining earlier.  I have a window open and the side door so there is still a slight breeze blowing through.  Love it!

Ivalou just came in.  Gas in Noblesville is $3.85.9 a gallon!!!

Oh, my, what troubles this old world has today.  Suicides, soaring gas prices, devastating tornadoes, deaths of dear friends......what on earth do people do, who don't know our Lord?  I cannot imagine.

My friend's husband made the transition from earth to heaven shortly after I spoke to her yesterday morning.  I am so sad about that, but so happy to think of Ed in heaven, with a whole new body that will never again know pain or suffering.  And we will see him again soon.

I'm ready to go to Red Hats, and need it.  It will be fun and a welcome relief from so much bad news.

Nita, I love the pictures of the mama swan and her little cygnets!  Such cute little fuzz balls!  And such good photography!  Thank you, Jane, for alerting Nita so she could share them with us.

I went to see Mom and Beth this morning but didn't see either of them.  Mom was in exercise class, and they were giving Beth her bath.  So I will have to go back after lunch.

Gord, your day sounds lovely, and I'm happy for you.  What a good friend you have!

Etta Sue, I wish I had your woods to use during family reunion!  Sounds just perfect!

Pat, I can only imagine how busy you are right now.  Remember to take care of you for us, and don't work too hard.

Larry, thanks, and you are right.  I do need to take some days just to "be still and know..." 

Hmmm....no posts since I was here earlier today.  We have had a bit of rain and are so thankful for it.

Our new Tempur-pedic bed was delivered this afternoon, sure hope we like it.

I'm shutting down here for the evening.  Working tomorrow again.

Hi Janet...

I've heard good things about those beds.  Let us know how you like it.

I've often thought one of those would be great, Janet. We'll be waiting for a "consumer's guide report" from y'all. :)

Those swan photos were so cute.

This afternoon was SO enjoyable.

In my medical "tuneup" today was the day to visit the tummy doc and the neuropathy doc. The tummy doc says no yukky stuff to drink this year - come back in a year. Then, the other guy was out, so I rescheduled.

I decided not to return to work - so it's been fun to experiment with being retired.

Y'all have a great day.

Sounds like an enjoyable afternoon, Ruth Ann.

Glad you don't have to drink the yukky stuff!  :)

Interesting we have the Tempur-pedic pillows and do not like them at all,  I hope the bed is different for you.   Money wasted  Sorry to say.


Ruth

Janet - I've heard (no personal verification) that those beds are ok unless the temperature in the room where they are drops.  They then become hard and unmanageable.  Sure would like to hear how it turns out.

When we've been up to Victoria, BC. we've been to the park there, and there's a man who's earned the nickname "The Swan Man."  He calls all of them by name, and they come to him

I dinno, I think I will stay with the matress I have, it is worn in to fit our shapes and we find it comfortable....Someday that may change.  Now I will be looking into new pillows as the ones we have are flat and hard.  I have four garbage bags of scrap foam that I think I will turn into pillows.  That may hold up better than the other pillow filling.

The cold is hanging on...no matter it will go in time. 

We saw an awesome site this week.  Three deer were bounding across a major 4 lane road in the middle of town and all the traffic stopped and let them go.  When they got to the other side they all stopped, turned around and looked at the stopped traffic.  Saying thank you?  Perhaps.  Then they wandered down to the lake for a drink.  Amazing to see in a city.

We have puppies due the last week of May.  Is mommy ever getting BIG.  Kass counted 8 last night and she says they are big for our spaniel.  Their dad, Gyp is a big dog so it will be interesting to see.  They are due the Tuesday after Pat's wedding.

Well I must go.  Today is slower than yesterday.  But I must get, I have a parcel to get shipped off to Kirkland Lake.  So I am off

Have a Great God filled day everyone

Computer problems again.  I notice on my Embarq Online Security that it hasn't updated since I re-installed it April 30.  And where it says the next update it, it says 'Suspended'.  I called Embarq.  He said I need more RAM.  I only have 512 and it takes 200mb for Windows XP.  And most websites are 300mb+.  Why did I just start having problems?  Anyway I have Belarq Advisor on my computer and have printed out everything about my computer and after 60 Chix I will go to Frye's in Indy to see if I can purchase more RAM and install it myself.  Maybe my Tax Rebate Check will help purchase a new computer.

As I said above today is 60 Chix.  So far there will be 10 of us.  Nice bunch.  It is raining so I hope it seizes while we are walking from a public parking lot to the restaurant and back.

   

May 8, 2008 - As we reported a few days ago when the cyclone disaster hit Myanmar, Roger Oakland's ministry Understand the Times has four orphan homes in Yangon, Myanmar, and the welfare of the children and staff at the orphanages was unknown. We are overjoyed to report that Roger has now received emails from the homes, and all the children and workers at all four homes are safe! We are praising the Lord with Understand the Times for His graciousness and mercy to these precious ones. The devastation and loss of lives in Myanmar is staggering, and we pray that many there will turn to the Lord Jesus Christ and accept Him as Savior during this terrible time, where the death toll may rise as high as 100,000 with over a million people now homeless.

The following is a statement by Roger Oakland; also we have included two of the emails he received from Myanmar:

Update on Situation from Bryce Lodges in Yangon

Early this morning I received two more letters from our Understand The Times representatives in Yangon. All our immediate family have been preserved from the storm.

We are presently in the process of sending someone over to Yangon to provide assistance and to help organize the dispersal of assistance through Understand The Times in the surrounding area.

Please pray for favor that we may receive the necessary visas and be able to go.

A fund for supporting the victims of the Myanmar disaster has been established at www.understandthetimes.org.

Checks can be sent to our two offices in Canada and USA.

Following are the two letters that were received today:

Dear Roger,

Internet access was down, now only I can email you again. Hope that you are getting better in these days. With our children we are always praying for your health.

At the time thousands of people lose their lives, by His protection, we are survived but our programs and plan of wedding was failed on Saturday and changed on Sunday. It turned to helping others in needs especially for our members. Since every one was busy with his own work, phone line and transportation problems caused by the storm and flood, so we just called a church pastor, Philip and Dante and only some of our neighbor and made wedding at home.

We learned so many lessons from those things happened. we felt that God has taught us not to love the world neither the things that are in the world. It made clear that our earthly life is just really temporary and unreliable. Now, the city of Yangon and it's surrounding areas lose it's beautifulness. It has a lot of changes and different from the time you came to Myanmar.... [The prices] of things are getting higher day by day.

And unlimited numbers of outskirt people are in trouble because they are homeless and without food. By His grace in this time we have privileges to show our love, care and concern to our church members at Shwelinpan who are in trouble by giving rice and the funds they are really in need.

Among our members at Shwelinpan, two of the tents (houses) were fallen down and faded away. another one of the roof was destroyed. One was survived.

If we can not continue to supply their need, they will be without food and house. So, I let you know the condition of our church members at Shwelinpan. Beside, thousands of outskirt people are in great trouble. they can not solve the problems they have by their own.

Please pray that these things lead them to know and trust the Saviour alone.

Your brother in Christ

Elisha

Dear
Brother Roger:

I am so sorry that I could not give you information about us earlier.

I know that many people concern about our situation. We are saved.

Bryce Lodges One, Two and my family are saved. We do not suffer any serious damages.
But the prices are sky rocketed.

Thank you so much for your concern.

Prayer Requests:

1. Give thanks to God for He has saved us from this storm.

2. Pray for all the Bryce children for the coming admissions to the school. Usually,
admissions start about May 20.

Sincerely yours,
Mang

Hi everyone.  This has been a rather laid back day and most enjoyable.  I attended my retirees luncheon at noon and there were only 5 of us present.  However, it was nice to sit at a table where all could share with each other.  I have known these men and worked with them for many years now.  On my way I stopped at Fry's to return what I had purchased last week.  The telephone didn't work at all as couldn't get a dial tone and the 4 gig memory card will not read in my Palm TX and that was where I wanted to use it.  On the way back I stopped at MicroCenter and got a set of headphones for my friend, Rob.  They are made by Altec Lansing and  fit so nicely in the ear and have such great sound.  I bought a pair of them last week for myself and even my wife has been them comfortable, which I would never have expected. 

Pat, that is a terrible disaster in Myanmar and appears to be getting worse by the day as the world is waiting to be allowed to bring the relief supplies and aid into the county and the military junta in power won't grant the permissions necessary.  It is hard to understand such thinking. 

Etta Sue, I think you will see a major difference in the speed of your computer in its internal operations with the increased memory.  Memory is very easy to install in the computer.  I have 2 gigs of memory in my desktop and only 1 in my new laptop and can notice a difference.  It won't make the Internet work any faster as that is dependent on the servers and the sites being accessed but on the things you do locally on your computer it will.

Judy, I am sure you all are looking forward to the new puppies.  They are so cute when they are small. 

Ruth Ann, it sounds like you are getting glimpse of the freedom you will enjoy when you retire.  It is nice to be able to do things when you want to do them.

Janet, I hope the new mattress works out well for you and that you really like it.  That is something we need to replace one of these days.  I hope you had a great time with the Red Hats yesterday. 

Marilyn, sorry to hear of Keith's ex-wife having cancer. 

Yesterday we had both the air conditioning man here for the annual service of the units (all was fine) and the plumber to fix a couple of problems.  Needless to say my wallet is quite a bit flatter today but the problems have been fixed.  We are going to have to cancel plans to have our house pressure washed as it is not allowed under the watering restrictions.  It is certainly not a major priority for this year.  I called and was advised you can get a licensed professional for the work but don't believe we will try to do that this year.

I have been running full steam ahead all day.  Went to work at 6 AM, off at 2, home to my waiting class (Darrel was keeping them entertained while they waited for me) and taught until after 5.  Need I mention I am a bit weary?  ;)

Ruth, they gave us two of the tempur-pedic pillows when we bought the bed, and we do not like them.  I am trying to get used to the contour one as it is supposed to be better for a side sleeper, which I am sometimes.  They are too thick for my short neck, and Darrel finds them too hard.  The price on the boxes they came in was $99.00 each!!  :o  So we surely wouldn't have them had they not given them to us!

I was awake every few minutes last night.  But Darrel thinks he will really like the new mattress.  I think I will too, once I get used to the feel--it is quite different from a conventional one.  My daughter and son in law got one a few months ago and really like it.  Interesting thing about that---Jeff is a terrible snorer, would keep Diane awake or she would go sleep with Abby; but with this bed, Jeff goes to sleep, sleeps without all the tossing and turning, and doesn't snore!  So for them, it is a real blessing.

Red Hats was fun, but the meal served by a girl who calls herself "The Rebel Gourmet" was very skimpy.  More like you would expect for a High Tea, I think.  For ten bucks, I expected to get enough to eat, at least.  Oh, well........

Ruth Ann, glad you don't have to drink yucky stuff, and that you are adjusting to retirement.  Still praying for you, my friend.

The mess in Myanmar is really sad, and to think those anxious to bring help are being refused entry into the country.

We are under severe weather warnings, tornadoes and hail warnings in our corner of Kansas, so far, they are well to the north northeast of us.  The big house with a basement is empty, so we can go there if necessary; hope we don't have to take shelter though.

Judy, I'm sure glad we are not expecting puppies!  Cute, but so much trouble.  Darrel does want to get another dog before too long, he is a life-long dog lover.  I like them, but nothing like you, Darrel and Marilyn.  Now, Geordie?  He's not a dog, he's a member of Pat's family!  ;)  Sort of like Beth's Mieka was.

I'm giving myself permission to relax for the rest of the evening!

Keith's ex, Nola's, surgery was successful, they found NO cancer but had to do some repairs and I think probably a hysterectomy since  she is 55 years old. Thank you for the prayers. I told him yesterday that he should go visit her since she is the mother of his children and they were married for 29 years. So he went to see her today, the visit was short, she was sleepy, but he thought she was glad to see him. I am glad he went.

If any of  you notice on the news the tornado damage in Tupelo, MS, that is about 45 miles SW of me.  The same storm system came through my town, and praise the Lord no tornados touched us.  They spotted three around the town but no touch downs.  God is so good!!!!  (We spent a good hour in the storm house this morning) :crazy:

I was wondering about you Samantha, if all  y-all were alright.

We drove in snow and it has been snowing off and on all day.  We are at son's newly purchased house/cabin at Grand Lake.  I was able to take a refreshing walk this afternoon and spotted many tracks of moose and elk & other little critters.  It is perfectly quiet here - there is no t.v. but they have high-speed internet because they both keep in contact with their jobs.  Don and I needed to get away - the house is shining from all the tender care of these last few weeks & tomorrow someone will go through it.  Am sure my BP is up so I really need to just veg out as they say.

Sorry for the loss of friends for some of you.  I am glad that you are all safe. 

Hi everyone.  Just a few minutes this morning as have a full day and probably wouldn't be able to get back here later today.  This is one of the Golden Games days for Pat and I.  We are suppose to play Rummikub this morning.  I also have our SeniorNet Volunteer meeting and then the computer user group this afternoon.  As soon as that is over I am heading to Atlanta to pick up our daughter, who is coming for the weekend to be here for Mother's Day.  She wants to take Pat and I out to lunch on Sunday.  I think this may be a first.  She did see her cardiologist yesterday and he has ordered another echocardiogram as her heart rate remains too high and also increased her medicine to try to get it down. 

Carol, glad you could get away from the house selling.  We always left the house when a buyer came through with an agent as never wanted to deal directly with a buyer.  Hope you have a restful time at Grand Lake and know it must be beautiful there.

Samatha, know yesterday was a scary day for you all weatherwise.  We were worried all evening but don't think we even ended up with a drop of rain.  There were tornado watches in some parts of Georgia but not here.  Glad all was well for you.

Marilyn, it was nice of Keith to visit his ex-wife.  That is an act of kindness.

Janet, glad to see you granted yourself an evening off.  :)  Of course, it looks like you might have been running on empty in terms of energy after the day you described.  Hope you can have a quietly and less busy day today. 

Well it is time to head to Friday Men's coffee.  I made a belated birthday card for my friend Rod and the other man we walk with and provide transportation to is going to bring a cake to celebrate.  His birthday was on Wednesday.

Ruth Ann ~ You will soon wonder how in the world you had time to go to work!!  Look forward to doing things when you want to do them and go when you want to go.

I now have 1.5gb of RAM.  And I do notice a difference in speed when opening a folder.  I still have an empty 'slot' so may purchase some more RAM in the future. 

I went to photo classes last night with Cherie, Kitty's sister-in-law.  Kitty was still in Ohio...coming back home today.  Most of the photography guild uses PhotoShop but some things are still the same in PaintShop Pro.  Last evenings class was on Selections.  I learned some new shortcuts and ideas! 

Tonight I am going to Tony and Charlene's and then to a local Mexican restaurant for Mother's Day.  Charlene's grandson, Donovan, is graduating from pre-school at 7:30pm so we are going there after eating.  The graduation is at the Methodist Church that my Grandmother attended while she was alive.  I remember her 100th Birthday celebration was in the basement way back in 1976!!

Kind of chilly in Indiana.  Only 53°F.  And overcast.  Not a warm day at all.

     One thing unique about the story of the Prodigal son, is that in the time of Christ, the Father would be the one for bearing the shame of his son behaving in this manor, and we see a Father that is not only forgiving but was willing to ignore any comments from those around him. God is not embaressed by our behavior, but is a proud Father upon our returning to having a relationship with him...such a forgivng God, so much to be thankful for Amen....
                  LarryBoy

Where is everyone? I guess I'd better come in to post so I won't be one of the missing.  Keith will be here  in a couple of hours. He left work at noon but has to make 3 business stops on the way down the coast.

Etta Sue it sounds like you are going to have a very nice eveing with Tony and Charlene.

Larry What is Rummikub?

Janet I don't think I would like one of those tempur-perdic pillows either, I like to bunch my pillow up to fit  under my neck, since I have so many neck problems anyway. Like right now it is hurting a bunch.

LarryBoy it is good to see you posting in this thread, glad you jumped over here.. We could call you LarryB couldn't we? So not to confuse you with the other Larry.

Today was an easier day for me, at least in some ways.  Pat did my hair this morning, I got all the laundry done and put away, went to eat with my Youth Friends and helped them make Mother's Day cards.  Came home and changed, then we drove to Lakin for our friend's funeral service.  It was a lovely service, they talked about Ed's many good qualities and works for the Lord.  It makes me smile to think of Ed's joy in the presence of the Lord.  One new thing I learned about him, is that he wrote poetry!  One of his poems was on the back of the folder they handed us.

I have to work early tomorrow, and after I get off at 2 or so, I will drive to Abby's to help her get ready for her dance recital, as her parents are having a big garage sale and her mom might not be able to get away when she needs to.

Carol, glad you are in a beautiful place and getting a respite from all the work.

I'm going to relax a while, then watch The International Intelligence Briefing with Hal Lindsey.

See you later!

Larry Boy - we should be reminded that the angels in heaven rejoice at the repentance of one sinner.  I think that's an indication of God's own response to  it.

Hi, friends,

I haven't been home very long. My daughter took me to a really nice restaurant not very far from my home. Usually we have to drive to the other side of town to go to nicer restaurants, but now this one's only about 3-5 miles away!

She ordered way too much for us, so I ended up bringing almost my entire entree home. The food was mighty fancy, though. :D Almost "too rich" for my tastes. That will be one of those once in every 2-3 years because I'll need to save up to eat there.

I have learned that return of a brain tumor may have caused my friend's thinking to be so goofed up that he committed suicide. How sad.

Well, must go - am worn out tonight.

Hope the weekend goes well for everyone.

Hi everyone.  What a busy day I did have yesterday and was really tired when I got home.  I left the house at 7:30 yesterday morning and it was about 5:30 last evening before I got back home.  Needless to say I slept very well last night but still feel the effects of yesterday today. 

I was eliminated in the first round of the Rummikub game in the Golden Games.  We played three hands and then the person with the lowest score advanced.  Pat did go to the second round.  It was fun however.  Marilyn, it is a tile game played a bit like rummy in that you use books and runs but the tiles on the table can be rearranged to make new groups or books when you play one more tile from your hand.  It is a fun game and very easy to learn.  We then moved to the next room for the SeniorNet meetings.  About 2:15 I headed towards downtown Atlanta (actually one of the suburbs to pick up our daughter.  We were on the way back out here when Pat called asking me to go by Kaiser for a prescription she hadn't picked up yesterday as initially planned.  We we made a little sidetrip and got that and then I took our daughter to the chiropractor and finally we stopped at Kroger where she bought her mother some beautiful red roses for Mother's Day. 

Today should be much quieter as just have one short activity planned.

Ruth Ann, it sounds like you dined royally and I am sure it was the time with your daughter that met the most. 

Welcome Larryboy.  It is nice to have another Larry participating here in this discussion.

Etta Sue, I see you were also treated to a night out by your son and DIL. 

Time for coffee.

I didn't get an email notification for this thread.   :-\  :'(

Yes, I had a great time last evening with Tony, Charlene, Audrey, Donovan, Brad, Vince, his girl-friend, Ruby and Nate.  The food was great at a restaurant I had never been to before.  A little pricey but then all restaurants are raising their prices. 

Then we went to the Methodist Church in Fortville where the pre-school graduation was.  The morning class got up in front and sang a few songs and then the afternoon class did the same.  Then one teacher annouced the child's name for them to come up.  A second teacher gave them their diploma and a ribbon and stated their award.  Donovan's award was The Good Manner Award.  Then the teacher asked each child what they wanted to be when they grew up.  Donovan told his Dad that he was going to say he was going to be a Navy man...his Dad was in the Navy.  He told Grandma Charlene he was going to say he was going to be a Policeman...his Dad is a policeman.  But...when Donovan was asked what he was going to be when he grew up, Donovan said, 'I am going to be Darth Vader!'  Seems he watched Star Wars one night last week.   :o

Tonight Ivalou, Jane (my best friend growing up, now my next door neighbor and she is recently widowed) and I are going to the Lapel Show Choir 40th Anniversary Celebration.  If it is half as good as 'Joseph' was last week, it will be good. 

Aaron just called.  I think he probably wanted to go somewhere for lunch but I am in the middle of doing laundry and have to get cleaned up myself before going this evening. 

Here in the mountains, it has snowed another five inches.  We took son & family out for breakfast and came back & I had a morning nap.  Don is playing bowling with grandson on Wii - I did better than I thought last night.  It is early enough here that I may try to fit in another nap today.  Really need this down time as neither of us can sleep very well.  Tomorrow, driving back but meeting with all the rest of the family for lunch & visit.  Lots of people going through our house.

Beautiful snow here as I look out at all the big windows, watching the tall lodge pines sway in the breeze coated with heavy snow.  We all need this peace this weekend.  Son gets on a plane for Boston tomorrow. 

Welcome LarryB.  This is a place rest and refreshment. 

Lovely work of the Lord in nature and we are blessed to be viewing this place.

Hello all!

We are in Pigeon Forge for our Anniversay/Mother's Day/mini-vacation weekend.  The kids wanted to stay in a motel, so here we are.  Kristi is taking a nap, and Travis is watching "Robin Hood" (a classic movie, not a new one or Disney) with his dad.

The motel has fee wireless, and my anniversary/mother's day present was a new laptop, so all is cool.  :)

Larryboy, every time I read your name, I think of veggie tales.  :)

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and Happy Mother's Day to all of you mothers.

Hi everyone.  We got through another very stormy and violent night in Georgia, but certainly nothing compared to Oklahoma, Missouri, and other states where lives were lost.  There were storms to the southwest of Atlanta.  I was awake a lot last night listening to my radio to be sure we weren't under tornado warnings (we only had a watch). 

Our daughter took us out to a very lovely dinner last night.  We decided to eat out last night rather than today because the crowds on Mother's Day are always huge at the eating places around here.  Our daughter asked me a little while ago to go ahead and take her back to her apartment this morning.  She and her mother did grocery shopping yesterday and when we get to her apartment I am going to put in a new sound card in her computer since she has had no sound for a long time.  That really shouldn't take very long.

A word of warning if you are running Windows XP on your computer and have an AMD processor.  My wife's computer has this arrangement and when I tried to update to SP-3, which I had done successfully on my computer, I couldn't even load the operating system.  I had to reboot in safe mode and restore to the point before the update.  I did some maintenance and found a bad sector and fixed it and then tried again yesterday with the same results.  Microsoft is aware of this problem but has offered no solutions as of this time.  This doesn't seem to be a problem with Intel chips.

We will not be attending church this morning since we will be taking our daughter home.  The choir isn't singing or occupying the choir loft as it is youth Sunday and our choir director is leaving for Berlin this early afternoon.  The Atlanta Symphony Chorus has been invited to perform with the Berlin Philomonic Orchestra in several concerts. 

Carol, you are fortunate to have traffic looking at your house.  I have a friend I had coffee with yesterday who has had his home on the market for quite awhile and have had no lookers even.  Enjoy your day and have a good drive back home.

Karmat, you must tell us about your new laptop.  I know you will really enjoy it.  Hope you have a great mini-vacation and the weather cooperates during the time you are there, at least during the daytime.

Etta Sue, your Darth Vader story is sure cute.  Those little minds are very impressionable.  Glad you enjoyed your meal out.

I think the others are ready to head for Atlanta.  Hope everyone has a good day.

The show last evening was fantabulous.  There were over 150 past show choir members from as far away as California and Texas.  There were 15 members of one family...sisters, brothers and cousins.  The show was 2 and a half hours long with lots of singing, dancing, solos and duets.  Miss Terhune was honored by forever in the future a scholarship for Music will be given to a Senior each year.  Great show.

Well, today it is winter again in Indiana.  I wore a crocheted jacket to church and those holes aren't warm!  I got soaked by rain just going to the garage.  When I first went out the door it was barely sprinkling but came a downpour before I got to the garage.  I had to run my wipers on FAST four times in the 25 miles to church.  On a side street in Greenfield, all I could see was headlights coming my way.  I prayed that God would keep us on our side of the road.  He did. 

Church was packed for Mother's Day!  The singing and sermons were great! 

I ate at Taco Bell, then went to AutoZone to get an oil filter for the lawn tractor so Tony can change it when he gets time.  I then got some Murphy Gas at WalMart @ $3.78.9 a gallon.  Not even half empty tank took $29!!!  I was sure happy to get back in the car with the heater on!  Brrrr!!!

It is warm and toasty here in the house. 

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL THE MOTHERS!

Larry, I hope you can have a few slow days now to get rested up again.

Etta Sue, I don't like to get wet and cold at all, either.  Not fun.  Glad you had such a good evening of music, and the kindergarten story was so cute.  That boy changes his mind quickly!  (Reminds me of some of our politicians!  ;))

Carol, glad you're having a respite from the busy-ness at home.  Sounds as if your house will sell quickly.  Our daughter's house was supposed to be sold, but the couple buying had their financing fall through at the last minute.  But one of the churches is looking at it in view of using it as their parsonage.  So they will get it sold before long, I feel.

Abby's dance recital last night was cute, but WAY TOO LONG.  She was only in two numbers, being the first one and one at the very end, so we couldn't even leave early.  I was so tired, hurting so bad I thought I couldn't stand to sit there another minute, but I made it.  Then Diane gave me some Ibuprofen, so I made it home safely, and of course was very glad to get to bed.

CONSUMER'S REPORT:  We are liking the Tempurpedic mattress better and better.  It seems there are no pressure points on your body with it, and much less tossing and turning.  But we still do not like the pillows.  For one thing, they are really heavy, and of course, you cannot fluff them or wad them up to fit your need.  I will let you know again later, as time does change opinions sometimes.  :cool:

For Mother's day at church, as we left, each lady was given a pretty key chain, heart-shaped, silver, engraved with the words "All Women are Special."

There is a Mothers' Tea at the care home at 3:00, so I will see Mom and Beth then.

Hope you are all having a great day!

Keith has just left for his return to Oregon. It was a very nice weekend. Before he left we  took the dogs for  a walk  and it sure is windy out there.

I do hope every one in  the path of the tornados is ok. I see where one passed awful close to Nashville I hope Ruth Ann is ok too. Thanks for letting us know that you are ok Larry.

Lots of reading to catch up on so will stop here.

 :)    Good afternoon to all.  I have just been catching up on the post's and as per usual very interesting.  Our daughter-in-law was involved in a rear ender this past week and thank the Lord she was driving there larger S.U.V. and had lot's of protection.  The person that hit her was charged and she had the baby and the dog with her when it happened and of course she was pushed into the car in front of her.  She has a sore neck but thanks to the Lord protecting them she is o.k.

Larry you soud very busy man it seems that you are always going somewhere and I guess I am to.  But since the angina attack I have slowed down a lot. :thumbsup:

We are having a crazy kind of day with regard's to the weather it was nice this morning but now it is very overcast and raining. :)

Pat:  How are things going at this very special time ?  I hav not heard from you in a while.  Have a great day sis.

Judy B.  Also hope all is well and John is doing well too please say hi to him.

To everyone else hope you have a wonderful week and  may the Lord richly bless you and give you all strength. I thought I would put down this Proverb and see if anyone had some new comments about it as it does say a lot. Again may the Lord Bless.  Gord and Noreen. :coffee:

 :)  Sorry I forgot to put the reference.  Prov.28. 1-28   :coffee:

You know what spoke to me just now in that scripture? The elder son was bitter at the return of the prodigal son, he had seen him go, and yes, he had squandered the money that he'd been given, this older brother may have been building up this resentment for some time. They must have known of the younger sons activities, for the older brother to have this resentment, and the father to go out to meet his younger son on the road home, I may be guessing, but scripture does seem to indicate this.
   The crux of the whole story here, is that, the younger son receives reconciliation and forgiveness. The elder son then pours out his bitterness, and resentment to his father, what does the father do, he uses tact, there is no harshness there, just a loving explanation. The fact is that elder sons perhaps bottled up resentment is poured out in the family home, and if the father loves the older son as much as the younger son, then even that bitterness once connfessed can be minitered too.
   The father has the fatted calf killed for the younger son, but then all the family will eat and benefit of it in the same proportions. The fathers not distinguishing between one son and another, but laying on a meal in which all the family can be reconciled by eating of it, one son needed his fathers reconciliation, the other needed healing from a hurting heart. We have all fallen short of our Fathers goodness and love in one way or another.

Good explanation of the scripture, Summicron.

I was in Memphis last night and, although the storms were fierce and the rain really came down hard, we were safe.

I got a dozen roses while there for Mothers Day. What a special treat! And, I heard from all the kids and grandchildren, so that made today extra special, too.

The winds also were gusting as I was on my way back to Nashville today. Occasionally the truck would sway in the wind, so I was extremely careful and kept my speed no higher than 65. This saved a good amount of gas, too, thank goodness!

I agree, Etta Sue, "winter" certainly felt just around the corner down here in Tennessee. As I was buying gas in Jackson, I got really chilled. And, that station's pumps had none of the little notches in the handles that let you put the gas on "auto-feed" - so I had to stand there and hold it! Brrrrr.

Well, y'all have a great evening.

Ruth Ann

Happy Mother's Day ladies, I hope you all had a wonderful day.

We went to the storm shelter again last night.  Nothing came by our way but it was better to be safe than sorry.

I miss my mother terribly on days like today.  <3 <3  We will see each other again one day, praise the Lord!

Later,
Samantha 8)

I saw Beth today, did not hear from any of my other kids.  Did get a nice call from grandson Curtis, though.  So, while tempted to cry and feel bad about being "forgotten" I choose rather to thank God that I'm in great health, and they all know I'm strong, so don't need the pampering.  (I would really enjoy it, though.)  To be fair, Abby and Diane did give me a card last night.

I'm heading to bed, have to be at work before the crack of dawn again tomorrow.  Good night and sweet dreams!

I had a nice weekend with Keith, we didn't do much, took the dogs for walks, went to the store, watched TV, and ate. I fixed him a lemon cake with chocolate frosting, marinated pork tenderloin, sweet white corn on the cob, mashed potatoes and gravy and salad. Bacon, Eggs, Strawberries and toast for breakfast, take and bake piza on Friday night. All things consdered we ate pretty darn good.I will be going to Oregon again on the 22nd returning on the 26th, he gave me a very lovely gift of "green" to help with the gas and the ticket. Gas here is up to $4.09 for regular, $4.29 for plus, $4.49 for premium and $4.59 for diesel. The kids came to meet Keith and brought me a nice card that Savannah made and a bouquet of flowers from their garden.  

Well, let's do it again! -CLICK HERE (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=6926.0)