Reign from Above

Sunday's Thought

2009-06-28T17:03:00.004-05:00

1 Corinthians 15:36 - ...Every time you plant seed, you sow something that does not come to life unless it dies first.

This passage made me think of disappointments in my life. How many dreams and plans have I had that have not come to fruition?
-First, I have to consider the seed I am sowing. Is it the type of seed God wanted in my life in
the first place?
-Second, if it was, and the plan or dream hasn't come forth yet, according to this scripture, it has
to die, anyway. What does this exactly mean? I don't really know, but it obviously means it
probably won't fall easily in my lap. Dieing doesn't sound like a lot of fun to me. It sounds like
self sacrifice, and a willingness to say, "Not my will, but Your will."
-Third, then, that means trust. Do I trust God with my dreams? I say I want His will in my life,
so am I willing to let him mold these dreams as He sees fit, or am I insisting on my own way.
Well, God is going to win, so if I'm not willing to yield, that means disappointment.
-Fourth, I can be assured of victory, if I've done the first three steps. However, it will be in
God's timing, not mine. Verse 57 says - Thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory through
our Lord Jesus Christ. I have to stand on this verse in faith, regardless of what circumstances
show. God is true and trustworthy.

In otherwords, one day my God given dreams will come to pass!!

Saturday's Thought

2009-06-26T23:02:00.007-05:00

A friend of mine posted this quote on facebook yesterday. She doesn't know where it came from originally, but it was just too good to pass up, so I thought I'd make it today's thought.

Watch your thoughts; they become words.
Watch your words; they become actions.
Watch your actions; they become habits.
Watch your habits; they become character.
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.

Friday's Thought

2009-06-26T22:29:00.002-05:00

1 Corinthians 14:1 - Eagerly pursue and seek to acquire this love (make it your aim, your great quest)...

This has been the cry of my heart for the past few weeks. I am desperate for the love, the compassion, that God has - especially for those that do not have a personal relationship with Him. It really does come down to the fact that there is a heaven and there is a hell, and everyone will spend eternity in one of these places. True love casts out fear. I need to love people more than I fear their responses. THIS is the type of love God is talking about. This is the type of love Paul had when he spoke earlier in this book about being compelled to share the Gospel.

Oh God, help me to eagerly pursue and acquire this love. Let it be my aim and my great quest. Don't let me feel satisfied with anything less. Change my heart and my nature and grant me the honor of having Your compassion and love for those who need You.

Thursday's Thought

2009-06-25T20:52:00.002-05:00

This thought comes from 1 Corinthians 13 - the famous "love" chapter. This is a huge chapter that has so much in it - how do you touch it? Humbly I will point out a couple of things that struck me, knowing there is so much more!!

Part of verse 7 says: Love does not insist on its own rights or its own way for it is not self-seeking...
- For the first time I noticed that this continues on a theme I've noticed in 1 Corinthians about
the rights we have in Christ and yet it's those same rights we must lay down. When we lay
them down, more in concern for others than ourselves, this shows true love.

Verse 5 also continues: it (love) takes no account of the evil done to it
-Wow! That is quite a challenge to live up to!

Verse 7 states: Love...is ever ready to believe the best of every person...
-It struck me that when I think of this verse, I have always focused on that I should believe
the best of somebody who I could easily believe "bad" about for whatever reason. But, how
about that I should think the best of somebody who has thought bad of ME. Now, that is
much more of a challenge...to lay down my rights to be angry and upset that they dare
accuse ME of something...and instead to believe the best in them. That is love!
.

Wednesday's Thought

2009-06-24T21:29:00.003-05:00

1 Corinthians 12:31 But earnestly desire and zealously cultivate the greatest and best gifts and graces (the higher gifts and choicest graces)....

This chapter focuses on the spiritual gifts God gives His church. Everybody receives gifts from God. This last verse talks about desiring the "greater gifts". However, what really caught my eye is the "earnestly desire and zealously cultivate". Gifts are just that - gifts. I can't, in my own strength, get a gift. However, God does seem to favor those who REALLY want it. Now, in non-spiritual things, if I REALLY want something, I start doing something to get it. I think about it, research about it, lay a plan to get it, and probably drive everybody nuts talking about it. So, that makes me wonder, in spiritual things, if I REALLY want something, do I show that type of enthusiasm? Do I think about it, research it, dream about it, and talk about it? Or do I just mumble a prayer every now and then and think about how nice it would be?

Oh, if my heart would change and desire these spiritual things as much as "regular" things! If I would truly "earnestly desire and zealously cultivate" and my actions would reflect this, I wonder what the result just might be?

Tuesday's Thought

2009-06-23T22:26:00.002-05:00

1 Corinthians 11:1, 31: Pattern yourselves after me [follow my example], as I imitate and follow Christ...for if we searchingly examined ourselves [detecting our shortcomings and recognizing our own condition], we should not be judged and penalty decreed.

I must evaluate myself prayerfully on a regular basis, and then ask God to change my nature and cover my shortcomings with the blood of Jesus so that I am followable.

Monday's Thought

2009-06-22T09:43:00.002-05:00

This thought comes from 1 Corinthians 9: 16, 22, and 27

My heart needs a change. Father, give me the heart of Paul - that I would be COMPELLED to share You with others. Not because I HAVE to, but because it is my nature to do so, and that it wouldn't even dawn on me to do anything else. Missionary Dick Flores said, "The wishbone will never replace the backbone." Oh, how true. I can WANT to do this all day long, but wishing and doing are two very different things. Let me become who I need to be to reach each person You have planned for me to reach. And always keep me close to You so that I may never become unfit for the destiny You have for me.

Monday

2009-06-16T00:13:00.002-05:00

I have a thought today, but I am going out of town tomorrow and have not had time to post it. I also won't have internet access while I'm gone. I plan on posting again next Monday. Be blessed!

Sunday's Thought

2009-06-14T18:01:00.002-05:00

1 Corinthians 7:17 - Only, let each one seek to conduct himself and regulate his affairs so as to lead the life that the Lord has alloted and imparted to him and to which God has invited and summoned him....

This is the cry of my heart. I looked up a few of the words from good 'ole Webster's to get a better understanding:

allot - to assign as a share or portion
impart - to give, convey, or grant from; to communicate the knowledge of
invite - to request the presence or participation of
summon - to bid to come; send for; to call upon for specified action

So, to rephrase: Let me seek to conduct myself and regulate my affairs so as to lead the life that the Lord has assigned and granted me and to which God has requested my presence to participate and bid me to come.

It's all my choice...and what an honor! Lead and guide me, Lord, that I may accomplish Your purpose in my life.

Saturday's Thought

2009-06-13T16:19:00.002-05:00

This came to be from 1 Corinthians 6, specifically verses 7, 12, and 19-20.

Even though everything is allowable for me to do, not everything is helpful and good for me to do. And for the sake of others, there are things that may be ok for me, but I need to let go of my right to do them so that I don't cause harm to others. I am not my own because Jesus purchased me. Now that sounds wonderful and all Biblical, but it's hard to let go of something that is "my right". What do I feel is "my right" to hang onto in my life that really isn't beneficial to myself, either for my sake or for others? What actions or what thoughts cause my life to be less than God wants it to be?

Friday's Thought

2009-06-12T14:33:00.003-05:00

1 Corinthians 5:6-8 - ...Do you not know that just a little leaven will ferment the whole lump of dough? Purge (clean out) the old leaven that you may be fresh new dough, still uncontaminated... Therefore, let us keep the feast, not with the old leaven of vice, malice, and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of purity, nobility, honor, and sincerity, and unadulterated truth.

Lord, whatever old leaven is inside me, keeping me from faithfulness, or anything unpleasing, purge it out so that I may be fresh and new. That is a scary prayer because purging is never fun. But, I am desperate. Show me the truth about what is in my life that is displeasing to you. Bad attitudes have to go. Self-consciousness and self-centeredness have to go. Show me Lord, and make me new - pure, honorable, and most of all, useable for You.

Faithfulness

2009-06-11T11:48:00.004-05:00

God is calling me to be more faithful...in many things, but mainly with spending time with Him on a DAILY basis. Oh, I'm good at running in and out of His temple...spending 3 or 4 days a week reading and/or praying. But God wants me to be faithful. He's telling me this in church AND where I'm reading in His Word. And not just to read so I can say I fulfilled my "obligation", but to hear His voice daily in what He is saying to me specifically.

So, with that in mind, I have a plan. I have decided that I am going to post God's daily thought to me in my blog. It's more of an online diary for me...a way to permanently record the thoughts I get. Anybody who wants to read my journey is welcome to, and any thought I post is what God spoke to me...it's not meant to "judge" anybody else. Comments are welcome, but don't feel obligated. If my journey helps anybody else, then I am the one who is blessed.

Today's Thought

1 Corinthians 4:1-2: so then men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the secret things of God. Now it is required of those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.

In order to become a trustee of the secret purposes of God, I must be faithful. This is why I have a tendency to remain on more shallow ground - because I have not abided with God - not faithfully communed - but run in and out of His presence. So as I am faithful, I become trustworthy with God's thoughts, dreams, and purposes. May the blood of Jesus make me faithful!!

2010 Spring Break

2009-04-26T21:24:00.002-05:00

Ok, I realize I may be jumping the gun here, but I found something out about Spring Break for next school year that I am NOT a happy camper about. Josh (my hubby) and I both teach, but we are in different parishes (aka counties). Well, next year, our two school systems have scheduled off DIFFERENT holiday dates. This means that Josh, Beth and Ben will have one holiday week, and Matt and I will have a different one. This happened one other time a long time ago, and it was horrible. When I was talking about this to Josh, Matt was in the room and started crying. (He's my sensitive one!) Phft!!!! :(

Matt's Quote of the Day

2009-04-18T22:01:00.005-05:00

Today Matt told me that the "cookie dough in the freezer is lonely. Its purpose is to be made into cookies so I can eat them." He really said this...I am not embelishing!! Gotta love that kid.

Funny Matt Quote

2009-04-18T00:44:00.005-05:00

Today we were talking about how quick the Easter holidays are coming to a close. He made the comment that he wanted to go to Toys R Us, but I informed him that wasn't going to happen. He then said, in a joking manner I might add, "Sadness from toes to hair". We all had a good laugh about that one.

Facebook

2009-03-03T17:30:00.002-06:00

For anybody interested, I just joined facebook. If anybody is on it that checks my blog and would like to add me as a friend, I'd love it. I'm still figuring out, but I know it doesn't take as much time as blogging. I don't even know how you'd find me to add, but I guess you'd type in Ruth Burton??

Maybe this will get me back to my blog.... I miss you all!!

Blogging Break....obviously

2008-04-13T21:02:00.002-05:00

Hi!

To those of you who haven't forgotten about me and still check to see if I'm alive, I am very grateful!! I have obviously been on a blogging break, although it really wasn't planned. I have been trying to add exercise into my daily, already packed to the gills, schedule. I was successful for awhile, but then we all caught the flu and then I added bronchitis to the mix, and I've fallen off the bandwagon. However, I am trying to re-add it, again. All that being said, I've just had to nix a lot of computer time. For awhile I tried just reading all of your blogs to stay in touch, but I was just falling further and further behind. So, I figure, I'm pretty much on a blogging break until summer. I realize summer is exactly when a lot of you GO on a blogging break, but that is the only time I have extra time. I really do miss you all and knowing what is happening with whom...but, it's a matter of keeping priorities in line. If anything major happens, please feel free to post a comment on my blog or e-mail me at joshruthburton@bellsouth. net (take out the space). May Jesus bless you and keep you safe!! I miss you all.

You Know You're Starting a New Habit When...

2008-01-14T23:02:00.000-06:00

You know you are starting something new when....after you return from an hour of "working out", your 8 year-old tells you that you don't look like a "workout person". Just you wait, buddy. I will look like one yet! =o)

Sniff!

2008-01-06T22:21:00.000-06:00

Well, vacation is over. Back to school and work tomorrow. It's been good, but it's never long enough. Grades are coming due soon, so I'll be busy. I'm already behind in everybody's posts, but I'll be by soon. Blessings to you all, and have a great week!

Happy 2008!

2008-01-01T21:42:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year! Yesterday our family went over to Trella's and spent the afternoon and early evening with them. It was good to see them and catch up. I caught her up a bit on blogland. The kids had fun playing the Wii.

Today Josh and I took down the Christmas decorations. However, this year we did it RIGHT. I went to Walmart and bought some red storage containers. We sorted through all of our Christmas stuff and weeded out what we wanted and what we didn't. Everything is now stored in the nice red bins for Christmas next year. I even straightened out all the wrapping supplies! I commented on how nice it was going to be decorating for Christmas next year!

Ben and Matt both have a friend over for the night, so there is a little extra activity here tonight. Everybody gets along great, so it really works out great. With the rest of the week, we want to get a few projects done plus see 2 movies. We NEVER go see movies, but we both want to see National Treasure and Waterhorse. Maybe we can get one in tomorrow.

I hope everybody had a great start to 2008 today!!

You Know You've Had a Rough Night When...

2007-12-30T23:38:00.000-06:00

You know you've had a rough night when you wake up in the morning and your quilt is completely turned over and the backside is face up! (Needless to say, I'm making Matt sleep in his own bed tonight....)

It's almost 2008!

2007-12-29T22:35:00.000-06:00

As the New Year approaches I find myself pondering on what I want to accomplish in 2008. Then, more to the point, I realized I needed to ask myself what does GOD want me to accomplish in 2008. Oh, I don't have the answers yet, but a few are:

1. I want to lose 50 pounds (at least)
2. I want to listen more and talk less
3. I want to become more of a giver and less of a taker or a "non-player"
4. mostly I want to become the type of person that draws people to the Lord...
believers and nonbelievers alike

What are your goals for 2008?

Logan, the Sky Angel Cowboy

2007-12-28T22:38:00.000-06:00

A friend from school e-mailed this to me today. I had to share it.

Laying Down the Crown

2007-12-22T10:29:00.000-06:00

Many years ago, our school did a play at Christmas (before I even worked there). I will never forget it. It covered the entire life of Jesus from birth to resurrection. The beginning of the play started in Heaven right before Jesus came to earth. He stood and was removed of His fine clothing of honor, and then He removed his crown and laid it down and then exited heaven in the company of angels. The next scene was His birth in the stable. The play went on to show scenes of His life, death, and resurrection. The last scene of the play showed Him arriving back in Heaven where He was again dressed in robes of honor, and at last, His crown was replaced and He sat in His throne.

It then became real to me at how much Jesus sacrificed for us even to leave Heaven in the first place, not to mention how He died. He literally left His glory and honor and willingly humbled Himself for us all. I am so grateful that Jesus chose to lay down His crown.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL!

I Made It!

2007-12-20T20:48:00.000-06:00

Yes! Open House is over. The Christmas performance is over. Phew! It all went very well, so I am glad. It is just such work getting ready for Open House. I stress over "do I have enough stuff to show the parents", and then I have to clean my classroom. OY!! The piles grow and grow, so decluttering is quite the battle. By the end I am doing the "stash and dash" method and hope I find everything later. We don't have a lot of meetings at our school, so we do have great turn out for these events, which is wonderful...but you feel "in the spotlight". But it's done. I have a staff brunch tomorrow, and then my cell group from church has a party tomorrow night. So, now I'm off to get those gifts wrapped and make my grocery list for the dips and dishes I am bringing for tomorrow night and Christmas Eve. It'll be a mad dash until Christmas, but then I get a nice long break. I don't have school until Jan. 7th!! YIPPEE!!

I hope everyone is having a good few last days until Christmas. In spite of the rush, I am focusing on Jesus and His love for us. Perspective. Perspective. Perspective. That's what it's all about. Blessings to you all!

Phew! What a day!

2007-12-18T21:28:00.000-06:00

I'm exhausted. My day started at 5 a.m. and didn't get home until 9 p.m. Why? I am now the thankful new owner of a 2006 Toyota Sienna. The mechanic reported dismal news on our old van, so we traded it in for the parts. I must admit, paying a car note again wants to cause me to breathe into a paper bag, but it is nice to have a trustworthy and NICE vehicle. It really is a dream come true for me. Not only is it a Toyota, but it has a CD player AND a DVD player for the kids. I never, ever expected to be able to have a DVD player in the car. I've dreamed about that since they came out. The salesman turned out to be a guy we go to church with, and I really feel we got a great deal. I'll post a picture in the next few days. For now, I'm going to bed....after I finish breathing in my paper bag. =o)

Christmas is a week away! AAAAAHHHH!!!!!

2007-12-17T21:39:00.000-06:00

Yes, I am still here. Life is just a tad bit ...um...busy...shall we say. (I've got to learn how you all write a word and cross it out!) I know I am surrounded by those of you who decorate the day after Thanksgiving and do such a great job of decorating. Well, I WISH I were one of you. I desire to be one of you. However, I am not. Because of circumstances largely out of my control, here we are one week before Christmas, and my tree JUST got lights on it tonight. Now, when the ornaments are going to be hung is another matter entirely. (Sigh.)

WHY? you may ask, has it taken me so long. Let me sum it up in the short version: church, school (as in job, not kids fault), broken air conditioner (yes, necessary here in Louisiana in December), OPEN HOUSE coming on Thursday at school (uggg!), broken van (left me stranded on a nice, busy highway).... Now, I've done most of my shopping...thank goodness. But, have I wrapped a thing yet? Nope. When do I plan to get it done? Not a clue. I guess this weekend, somehow.

Ok...I'll stop whining. I stopped throwing hissy fits awhile back, but I must admit to throwing one or two in the last two weeks. HOWEVER, God is good, with His help I will get it all done, and with a little faith thrown in there, I'll do it without any more hissy fits and maybe even in a new van (said with a deep breath and closed eyes).

And, I have decided to start posting my every day life MUCH more regularly. It may not always be accompanied with pictures and clip art, and I plan on keeping the entries on the brief side, but if anybody is interested, I plan on posting regularly now. I have been reading everybody's blogs pretty consistently, but I just haven't been posting.

And with that...I'll leave you with this thought. Here is Louisiana this morning it was 30 degrees. By Thursday, our highs will be in the 70's. Again. Nobody around here wonders why everybody is sick....when your low of the day and your high of the day are 30 to 40 degrees different. I WANT SNOW. =o)

E-mail button

2007-11-26T16:10:00.000-06:00

I've noticed that many of you have an "e-mail me" button on the side of your blog. I'd like to add one of those, but I don't see where that is located in the "add" section. Would anybody have a tip for me? Thanks!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T14:34:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to take a moment and wish everyone a very blessed Thanksgiving! It's been an honor and privilege getting to know all of you in Blogland!! Thank you for including me in your world. You each are very special. Have a great day celebrating God, family, and blessings!!

Handwriting Fun (it was quite accurate for me!)

2007-11-15T18:03:00.000-06:00

What Your Handwriting Says About You

You are a laid back person with rather low energy. You aren't lazy... you *are* sensitive and empathetic.

You are somewhat outgoing, but you're not a natural extrovert. You think first before you act. You tend to be independent, rational, and logical.

You are balanced and grounded. You know how to get along well with others.

You need a bit of space in your life, but you're not a recluse. You expect people to give you a small amount of privacy, and you respect their privacy as well.

You are conservative, old fashioned, and a little stubborn. You are resistant to change.

You are a decent communicator. You eventually get your point across, but sometimes you leave things a bit ambiguous.

What Does Your Handwriting Say About You?

It was really pretty accurate about my personality. I had Josh do it, and it pretty much nailed him, too. Thanksgiving break is almost here. I will try to post soon. One...more...day....

Laundry

2007-11-04T17:18:00.000-06:00

I am sick of laundry. I JUST emptied the "dark" basket, and here it is...full...AGAIN. I announced to my family that we are moving to a nudist colony so I don't have to do laundry anymore. They just looked at me and went back to what they were doing. Sigh. I guess I'd better come up with plan B. Oh, that's right...I need to remember to be THANKFUL for all of these clothes. And I am. But, jeesh.

Ok...off to pm church. (Do you think I should make my announcement there?) LOL!!

Friday Fun

2007-10-19T18:29:00.000-05:00

I found this on U Tube and I thought I'd wish everybody a happy weekend with it. (Stop the music on the side bar first) (Does anybody know how to stop the music temporarily on the side bar without removing it from your blog?)

More of Him Monday

2007-10-08T21:55:00.000-05:00

Diana is hosting More of Him Monday. The directions are to "share a specific piece of scripture that has spoken to your this last week. Share what you feel God is telling you through that passage and how you wish to apply it to your life." Head over there and check out what God is saying to people!

Yesterday, God spoke to me from Colossians 1:10, which says:

And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God

It is my prayer that my life makes a difference for His kingdom. Of course my family is my first ministry, but even more so than that. I don't want to be just "a nice person". I want the life I live to draw others to Christ. I shared in a comment I left at Ginger's today that I tend to be on the wimpy side with my mouth. There are things that I know I should say to others that I let slip by because of fear. I need more of Christ and less of me!! I want my good works to be more than just good works...I want them to bear fruit...fruit for His kingdom. It does little good for me just to be "nice" but let opportunities slip away. Yes, I know...some plant, some water, and others harvest. But I mean when I let opportunities slip by and I'm just "nice" when I need to be more, and I fail to even plant or water. This scripture has become my reminder and my prayer - that my life is worthy of the Lord and my good works bear fruit for Him.

2007-10-06T08:24:00.000-05:00

I was over at Karen's blog and saw her wonderful plans for today. Her day sounds awesome. I then started telling her about my day, and I had to laugh as my "to do" list kept growing. So here are my Saturday plans:

10:30 haircut appointment for the boys

grocery shopping

housecleaning (at least the bathrooms cuz they are disgusting)

get the laundry started (this is an all weekend event)

chauffeur Beth around

grading papers

make chicken noodle soup IF I can fit it in (that takes awhile, but boy is it good!)

And then I realized the scary part. I am looking forward to today because this is a CALM Saturday. Yow!! I wonder if Karen will trade Saturdays with me??

I guess I'd better go get started... I hope everybody has a blessed weekend!

Self-Esteem

2007-10-04T19:57:00.000-05:00

This is a picture of my daughter's bedroom door. She wrote this tonight on her "announcement" board. Do you think she might be suffering from low self-esteem?

TEENAGERS! LOL!!

Happy Birthday Matt!

2007-09-22T15:42:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm running behind, but Matt turned 8 on Monday. We had his party the Saturday before. It was just family, the little boy from down the street and one friend from school. I can't believe my baby is 8. He is such a miracle, too. (One day I'll have to post his story.) Anyway, here are some pictures from the event:

Here's Matt's "cake". He doesn't like regular cake or cupcakes, so we always do a brownie cake or, in this case, a cookie cake. This isn't the best shot of him, but it's the only one I have.

I had to laugh when I took this picture. Do you remember when YOU had friends come over and play? What did you do? Maybe go outside, play dolls, etc. Well, today's generation is different. Here's what THEY do when they get together:

PLAY VIDEO GAMES! And not on the TV. No, they each have one of the hand-held ones. Oh, the one that Andrew is holding (the redhead on the left) is the one that got "baked" (see post before for explanation).

Of all the things he wanted, a $3.49 puzzle from Wal*Mart got this enthusiastic response.

So, Matt is now 8. I'm the mother of two teens and an 8 year old. How did this happen? I'm still 25...aren't I????

(Sorry for the weird way this post is laid out. I tried to put the pictures in a different place and this is what happened. If I had to redo the whole thing, it'd be next week before it happened!)

Baking....electronics??

2007-09-16T00:27:00.000-05:00

Here's a good story from today. Matt had a friend over who just loves to play Matt's Nintendo DS (a handheld gaming system). He walks around our house playing it when he's involved in a game. Of all places, the little boy takes it in the bathroom, trips, and SPLASH goes the DS into the TOILET. (sigh) I just took a deep breath and reminded myself it was an accident...but what a costly accident this could turn out to be! Of course, it has water all through it. We dry it. We shake it, use a blow dryer, etc. It keeps trying to turn on, but you can just tell there is more water in it. (sigh) I figure it's finished.

During this time, I was telling my brother-in-law the story from 2 weeks ago about how Matt put a DS game in his shorts pocket and forgot about it. (They are very small.) I found it in the dryer AFTER it had been thoroughly washed and dryed. Guess what? It works just fine. I have been so impressed. He commented that it was probably because it had been dried in the heat that saved it. Hmmmmm....

We couldn't very well put the DS in the dryer. Where else could we get an intense heat source that wouldn't smash it to pieces? THE OVEN. Yes, we baked it. For 30 minutes at 175 degrees. Guess what? IT WORKS!!

Lessons learned today:
1. Do not take the DS into the bathroom.
2. When trying to salvage wet electronic products, use the oven.

I think I've created a very unique, yet valuable, lesson. Do you think I could get it published somewhere?! Or even better. Maybe I could start a recipe blog....

Blog Virus?

2007-09-15T16:22:00.000-05:00

I think I may have some sort of blog virus. When I go to post a comment, the screen keeps going back and forth with the "Do you want to display the nonsecure items". I have to go back to the main blog page and hit "comment" a second time for it to work properly. Is anybody else having this problem or know anything about it? Thanks!!

BEHOLD! She Posteth!!

2007-09-12T16:54:00.000-05:00

I have a "thought for the day". As I was praying this afternoon, the Lord gave me this:

Lord, rewrite the thoughts of my heart so that my words may please You.

A Real Ebay Listing

2007-09-02T21:44:00.000-05:00

A friend sent me this in an e-mail. It's an actual ebay auction that was put up on ebay when her kids sneaked a package of Pok-e-mon cards into her cart. It is hysterical!! All of us who has ever had to drag multiple children to the store will appreciate this.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayIAAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130144061675&ru=http%25

I guess I'm on a blogging break. I am reading blogs, but I just don't have time to post much right now. I will be back with posts, though, so don't forget about me! I am enjoying everybody's blogs. Be blessed!!

Name Meme

2007-08-19T22:40:00.000-05:00

I posted all of the names that were made for me on the side of my blog. Did I miss anybody's? I feel like I might have missed one, but I can't find it, so maybe I didn't. Anyway, if you made one for me and it's not there, please leave me a comment. Thanks to all who made one for me. I love each one of them!!

Have a blessed week!

Humph! HOMEWORK!!

2007-08-18T11:27:00.000-05:00

So sorry I haven't posted in awhile. As most of you know, the school year has begun. Normally, after a day or two, I jump right back in. However, several of my classes were changed this year, and it has thrown me for a loop. I'm sure that after I get used to the new classes, preparation won't take as long, but for now...it does. I haven't even been able to check blogs as often, so you KNOW I am swamped. I may not post every day, but I sure do make the blog rounds daily! Today will be filled with laundry and lesson plans. I hope to be back in blogland consistently soon. I hope you all have a blessed weekend!!

Name Meme

2007-08-12T22:02:00.001-05:00

I have been tagged by both Leigh Ann and Diana to do the creative name meme. At first I didn't know what to do it with, but then I asked myself what I had an abundance of. The answer came very quickly....beanie baby sized stuffed animals! So then I thought, "Why not." However, it was a lot harder to do than I thought!! So, I spent quite awhile writing as many names as I could. Some of you have been tagged before, some of you haven't. If you'd LIKE to be tagged, I'll happily shape more beanies in your honor. If you are tagged and would like to participate, this is what you do:

Jennifer @ Pen of Jen had a great idea - "to write 8 of your blog friends names in a unique way and post them. . You must write the blogger's name that tagged you, then add 7 others. Be creative and if possible use the natural wonders of the world!"

Now, I didn't use any NATURAL wonders, but, personally, I think it's a WONDER that I have so many dog-gone beanie babies. You should have seen my kids' faces as I started dragging their beanie baby hamper to the living room and spreading them all over the floor. Josh was gone on an Encounter, so I was spared his weird looks until we down loaded the pictures. =o)

So, here are my names. Some of them you may have to take my word for that the names are what I claim they are!

Leigh Ann @ Momma Roar - Her name was so long, I had to do it in 2 shots!

Diana @ Sunshine on My Shoulders

Lyndy @ Oh Fiddle-dee-dee

Jenn @ God's Not Done with Me Yet

Susan @ Penless Writer

Christy @ Mommy Brain

Lori @ A Mother's Heart is a Garden of Love

Jen @ This is the Day

Christie @ Keepin' the Homefires Burnin'

So there ya have it! Phew!! Have a great week everybody!! I start school tomorrow, so I may be a bit scarce for a few days. But, then again..... =o)

The Dream Giver

2007-08-10T22:57:00.000-05:00

Hi Everybody! I'm sorry I haven't posted in awhile. I'm kind of on a blogging "slow-down". I've been reading blogs, but I haven't been posting.

I've been working in my classroom getting ready for the new school year. I'm doing a Mexican theme in my classroom this year. I've hung pinatas from the ceiling and added other appropriate decorations. School starts on Thursday. Here we go again.

A couple of you have tagged me for the original name writing meme. I think I have a good idea and will work on that this weekend!

On a different note, have any of you read this book? While on my little get away, my cell group leader read us the first half of this book. While we were on the beach. We all just sat and listened. Even those of us who burn easily stayed and listened. By the end, I had a towel draped over my shoulders and head and was sweating profusely. Now, for me, you KNOW that has to be good for me to sit under those conditions!! LOL

Here's what the description of the book says: This compelling modern-day parable tells the story of Ordinary, who dares to leave the Land of Familiar to pursue his Big Dream. You, too, have been given a Big Dream. One that can change your life. One that the Dream Giver wants you to achieve. Does your Big Dream seem hopelessly out of reach? Are you waiting for something or someone to make your dream happen?

The first half of the book is the parable, the second half tells what to do with it. I've heard the parable. As I said, it was good enough to sit in the sun and sweat while listening to it. I ordered the book, and when it came in, I had Beth read the first chapter (grudgingly). She didn't put it down until she had finished the parable! I haven't had a chance to read the second part. I highly recommend what I've read so far. It's been one of those life changing books.

Have a blessed weekend!!

One Last Little Vacation

2007-08-02T09:29:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to say I'll be gone until Sunday. My cell group is taking a team building retreat to Dauphin Island. I hope everybody has a great weekend, and I'll catch up on blogs when I get home.

Look Ma! No Cavities!!

2007-08-01T00:13:00.000-05:00

I am proud to report that all 3 of our kids went to the dentist today, and nobody had any cavities. WOOT!! (Insert happy dance!) This is a first in quite awhile. Beth was also told that they rarely see teeth with braces taken care of like she does. YEY!! Now, if these nice, clean, cavity-free teeth would all get STRAIGHT on their own, I'd be even happier. =o) Beth is the fish with the braces and the boys are the other two. Perfect. LOL!!

T V Give-Away!!

2007-07-29T20:30:00.000-05:00

Ginger posted on her blog that 5 Minutes for Mom is having an awesome giveaway! It's a a 37″ Flat-Panel LCD HDTV from Best Buy.

Gee, how could I NOT enter?? You can, too. Just head over to 5 Minutes for Mom and follow the guidelines. May the best...er...luckiest blogger win!!

Redneck Tenors

2007-07-28T21:09:00.000-05:00

Ok, this is talented and hysterical!! You'll have to stop the music on my music player first. Hey...3 posts in one day. I've set a new personal record! =o)

Matt's Baptism

2007-07-28T09:38:00.000-05:00

Matt was baptised a few weeks ago. He asked about it a couple of times during the school year, so I figured he was ready. We have a fountain in front of our church, so that's where they did it. I thought I'd share the pictures.

This is our children's pastor, Pastor James, talking with Matt.

Here they are praying right before.

Yey Matt!

I hope everybody has a great weekend! =o)

An Award

2007-07-27T23:02:00.000-05:00

Susan from Penless Writer has nominated me for this award.

It is described as: For those who answer blog comments, emails & make their visitors feel at home on their blogs. For the people who take others feelings into consideration before speaking out & who are kind & courteous. Also for all those bloggers who spend so much of their time helping other bloggers design, improve & fix their sites. This award is for those generous bloggers who think of others.

Susan so sweetly said this about me: "Ruth is another one that really deserves this Thoughtful award. All her posts are just that, Thoughtful, and her comments are always sweet and share in your feelings of your post. Ruth is also the one that first introduce me to Blogger Chick on her blog and I had to have one, too!!! Thank you Ruth for your friendship."

Thank you so much, Susan. I have loved getting to know you and all of your adventures throughout life. I greatly admire you and your blog, so the nomination from you is very special. Thank you for this award. I enjoy reading and commenting on peoples blogs, and I value the friendship of the people I have gotten to know. However, I, like you, have not been able to contribute to the technical aspects of blogs, but I'm still learning!! Susan, I must tell you that it was Lyndy who introduced me to blogchick.

I would like to bestow this award to EVERYBODY on my blog list. You are all very special. I feel so encouraged when each one of you comments on my posts. I've tried several time to "pick 3" or "pick 5", but I can't. You are all thoughtful, helpful, wonderful people. So, although it seems I'm taking the easy way out, I'm really not. I looked at every name on my blogroll, and each one of you deserves this. (If you regularly visit my blog and I have mistakenly left you off my blogroll, please leave me a note and I will add you.) Thank you each for welcoming me into your world.

Gasp!

2007-07-26T10:13:00.000-05:00

I must let you all know that I am now the mother of TWO TEENAGERS!!! I'm a little late posting this. My son Ben turned 13 last Thursday. We didn't have his party until Friday night, so I waited to post a few pictures.

Ben is such a blessing to us. He has accomplished more than we ever thought possible, and I know he will continue to amaze us. When you get an "autistic" diagnosis for your child, your brain automatically heads to the worst case scenario. But with a lot of prayer and hard work, Ben has gone further than I ever thought he would. I no longer have limits in my mind.

He has certain things he thinks a teenager should be able to do, especially since he's watched his sister do them...like stay home alone. I'm still trying to delicately explain why, even though he is now a teen, that he can't. His voice is in the process of changing, and he has that classic squeak to low voice. I teach kids his age, and he has the most classic change of voice that I've ever heard. =o)

He is heading into 7th grade in the fall. Things are getting harder quickly school-wise, so I am a little nervous about next year. In 7th grade our school ups the expectations, so I know we'll be doing more at home, which I am not looking forward to. However, God has a plan for my little man, and I will wait in expectation for that to unfold.

HAPPY 13TH BIRTHDAY, BEN!!

Lions! Tigers! Bears! Oh My!!

2007-07-19T10:30:00.000-05:00

We have reached the next stage of decluttering. Thus far the kitchen, our bedroom and closet, and the attic have all been gone through and TONS of stuff have been pitched, given to the neighbors or to Goodwill. We have now reached the boys (aka toy) room. The first step undertaken today is STUFFED ANIMALS. Let me proceed to amaze you at the amount....

This picture I think gives the best perspective of the amount, although I couldn't quite get all of them in this shot. My dog Toby fits right in....

Here is a shot of Matt with a pile of "keepers". They have just started sorting. (Did you notice I said THEY?!)

This is a closeup of the biggest pile. I wish I would have grabbed the camera before they started sorting. I tried to get them to repile, but they refused. LOL!!

So here is today's project! I wonder how many I'll be able to part with. (Did you notice I said I'LL?)

Obedience vs. Passion

2007-07-18T10:32:00.000-05:00

I have been praying a lot this summer about my motivations of why I do things, especially in serving God. I realized that somewhere along the way I had begun to do things strictly out of "have to" instead of "want to". And I wondered why it had changed and what to do about it. I didn't want my activities to change because I knew they were the right thing for me to do, but I wanted my attitude to change toward them. My prayer has become, "Lord, change my obedience into passion!"

There is a little boy who lives down the street whose parents are involved with drugs. The whole family lives at his grandma's house, who has been my neighbor for years. This little boy and my son have become friends, and he spends a lot of time over at our house. He likes to eat supper with us, and his family is fine with that. Then the other day, I realized that he doesn't get fed lunch very often. I told him to come over at lunch time and I'd feed him lunch. (Of course, this has broken my heart.) When I was talking to my daughter about this, she said, "God is going to bless you for this, Mom."

I realized that, even though that would be great, that is not why I am doing this. I am doing this for the sole reason that I want to, and my heart would break if I didn't. It dawned on me that THIS is the attitude I need to have in all things Christ has called me to do. I don't want to do them because I "should" and God will bless me for it, but because I really want to and my heart will break if I don't. That, to me, is passion.

Lord, change my heart. Break my heart over the things that break yours. Let my obedience become passion.

Take a poll!

2007-07-15T22:46:00.000-05:00

Leigh Ann from Momma Roar showed me the new poll option in blogland. Perfect timing! So, if you don't mind, feel free to vote on my side bar for the look of my blog. Do you like this new pink look or do you prefer my old subtle green dot approach? It's not like this affects the state of the nation or anything, but I think voting is fun!! Thanks for you input.

Pink or Dots?

2007-07-15T00:13:00.000-05:00

Should I change my blog to this new pink or keep the green dots? That is the question. Voting polls are now open. =o)

Internet purchases

2007-07-12T23:57:00.000-05:00

How many of you have made internet purchases? It has become a norm for me over the years. Well, amazon.com has this lovely little purchasing tool called "purchase with one click". Fast forward to this afternoon. Beth is on the computer looking at a video game she has been thinking about buying. She usually surfs, finds what she wants, calls me, and I place the order. She was checking out both ebay and amazon. I'm in the kitchen scrubbing a huge pot, and she comes in with this sheepish/panicked look and asks for my help. I didn't want to go to the computer with spaghetti up to my elbows, so I asked the simple question of, "Why?" She said, "I think I just purchased something from amazon." I asked, "How?" She said, "I didn't think if clicked on 'purchase with one click' that I'd actually purchase it." My eyebrows raised. She then commented that the screen said "Thank you for your order." Let's just say that we had a little chat about what "purchase with one click" means and THEN she forked over the $30 bucks she now owed me. Good thing she was planning on purchasing it anyway.... I guess I should be thankful she wasn't "looking" at a $1,000 flat screen tv (however much one of those might cost). Sheesh!!

Nails

2007-07-11T13:15:00.000-05:00

My sister-in-law sent this to me. I hadn't seen it before, but I thought it had a good message behind it, so I thought I'd share it.

There once was a little boy who had a bad temper. His Father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into the back of the fence. The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Over the next few weeks, as he learned to control his anger, the number of nails hammered daily gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence.

Finally the day came when the boy didn't lose his temper at all. He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper.

The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone. The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence He said, "You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out. It won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound is still there. " A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one.

Isn't that good? I do disagree, however, with the idea that the wounds can never go away. When we process hurts and wounds at the cross, the hurt and wounds CAN be healed. However, I thought it was a valid point to remember that words are so easy to release from our mouths and yet they cause much damage.

Have a blessed day!

A Fun Day!!

2007-07-05T11:19:00.000-05:00

We had a great time yesterday. In college my husband and I were involved in a Christian organization called Chi Alpha. It sounds like a sorority/fraternity, but it's not. It is a Christian fellowship that are actually on college campuses throughout the U.S. This is where Josh and I met. It is also where Trella and Bruce met. Many of us have maintained close friendships from this time together. We get together twice a year at 4th of July, which we usually host, and Christmas which another couple hosts. It is always a lot of fun gathering and watching our kids grow up. Yesterday, to my best count, we had 33 of us (counting kids) smashed into my little house. It rained the first half of it, but then the rain stopped and the kids were able to go swimming.

Here is a picture of all of us. We were missing several families, so our count was a little lower than it is usually, but we always have fun seeing whomever can come.

Here are the kids in the pool. They were feeling a little claustrophobic in my house before the weather finally cleared enough for them to jump in.

I really felt how much our decluttering worked to my advantage yesterday. It was pretty easy to get my house ready for the party, and it was so nice to bring people into my bedroom to see some pictures on my computer and not have to make excuses for the mess. It's not like I've redone anything, but it finally looks like a bedroom is supposed to look...dresser tops and floor visible without stacks of clutter and dust everywhere. I told Beth that a miracle had occurred...I was actually able to vacuum the entire floor of the house. We still have some work to do, like the attic and the boys' room, which is MAJOR, but it feels so nice to look like a house should look.

I hope everybody had a great day yesterday! TTFN!!

Happy Birthday America!

2007-07-04T09:15:00.001-05:00

I wanted to wish everybody a very happy 4th of July! I hope that your plans turn out wonderful and your BBQ is delicious!! =o) Also remembering our soldiers past and present because our nation would not be here without them. Freedom is not free. Thank you, Lord, for this great country. Have a great day!

Lookin for a few good...

2007-07-02T11:27:00.000-05:00

FISH RECIPIES!!

I know that many of you are experts in the kitchen. I am lacking in good fish recipies. My family loves fish, but I never cook any. If you have any you'd like to share, I'd be most obliged. The simpler and quicker the better, but even a yummy, more complicated recipe would be ok, too. You can post it in the comments, e-mail me (joshruthburton@bellsouth.net), or send me a link if you already have some posted as I know many of you blog recipies.

Thanks for your help!

We're Back!!

2007-06-30T22:15:00.000-05:00

We had a great trip to Destin. The weather was great, and everybody really enjoyed themselves. Even I, the sand and sun "hater", enjoyed being in the ocean. By the end of the trip, Josh agreed with me that I basically burn and freckle instead of tan. Matt was our little fish. He couldn't get enough of the pool. He took swimming lessons last week, and he just practiced and practiced his new skills. This was probably my most relaxing trip because everybody was basically old enough to enjoy themselves, and I didn't have to worry quite so much about waves snatching anybody into the sea. Here are a couple of pictures.

I love this picture because it shows all of my kids personalities to a "T". Beth with the teenage "cool" thing going on. Matt with the crazy kid stance. And Ben with the distracted "stimming" that he does constantly.

Here is Matt and Beth relaxing on the bench in front of our condo.

In the ocean playing with the waves. Isn't the water gorgeous?! It took Matt until almost the last day to start to really enjoy playing in the waves. Salt water was not his favorite. He sure loved the pool, though. Beth loved the boogie board, and Ben did good until the last day. I think he decided he had had enough water activities.

I will be catching up on everybody's blogs over the next few days. The one and only downer to our week away was no computer access. I think we all went through withdrawal. However, I'm sure that was good for us all, too. =o)

Have a blessed Sunday!!

Destin...Here We Come

2007-06-24T19:55:00.000-05:00

Once again, I am heading to the beach. However, this time it is a family vacation! We are all looking forward to it. My only hang up is that I personally don't care for the beach!! LOL!! I'm not a sun/outdoorsy type. However, the place we are going is just beautiful, and my kids haven't been to the beach in 3 years. My parents are taking us, which is totally awesome. They do so much for us, and we are very appreciative. I just wish we lived 4 hours from the mountains instead of the beach. LOL!! =o)

Matt has an ear infection, and I think Ben might, too, so both are going to the doctor first thing tomorrow. Please pray for a quick healing!! They aren't running fever, but I'm concerned about the doctor saying "no swimming". We'll deal with that as it comes.

So, I won't be online until Sunday. I will catch up on everybody's blogs then. I hope you all have a blessed week!

Good News!!

2007-06-21T12:59:00.000-05:00

Oh, I just had to share some good news we found out today. My husband is a biology teacher at our local high school. His schedule has been getting more and more challenging because he keeps getting classes he has never taught before. Josh is not the type of teacher to do things the easy way, so a new class means LOTS and LOTS of preparation time. The year before was tough, but this last year was horrible, awful, and difficult. Did I mention it was terrible? Towards the end of this last school year, Josh went in to talk to his principal and told him that I was researching moving to Alaska because of the stress. The principal promised to try to find another science teacher that was capable of teaching chemistry (which is the class that made this year just awful for us). Well, we found out today that he hired someone to take all the chemistry classes!! HIP! HIP! HOORAY! This will leave Josh with just Biology, Biology Honors, and Anatomy & Physiology. My family was laughing at me as I did a major happy dance in the kitchen.

We are still decluttering. Another 4 huge bags of clothing plus several boxes were dropped off at Good Will. We've also tossed bags and bags of junk. We really wish we had weighed everything so we'd know how much we've gotten rid of.

I figured out the picture thing. Thank you to those of you who offered me assistance. It really was quite easy. I'm still looking for THE picture I want, but the one I have for now is cute.

Time to go work on laundry and more decluttering!!

A Little Blog Help Needed

2007-06-20T21:54:00.000-05:00

How do all of you get your picture, or a picture representing you, to come up when you make comments on other people's blog? I'd like to add this, but I can't figure it out. Thanks!!

Decluttering

2007-06-16T22:21:00.001-05:00

Just had to show you what I pulled out of my clothes closet to get rid of. I haven't gone through my clothes in years. Do you know how much this was? EIGHT garbage bags full!!! I'd say one bag was some clothes of Beth's I had planned on ebaying when I had a chance, but the rest came from my closet. Just stuff I didn't wear because I didn't like it anymore or it was dreadfully out of style. I think my house feels lighter....

Show and Tell Friday

2007-06-15T15:08:00.000-05:00

If you'd like to participate, head over to Kelli's blog and sign in to Mr. Linky!

My show and tell today is my dog Toby. He is a maltipoo (Maltese poodle mix). This is him really needing a trim! He will be 2 in September.

We didn't have him as "our" dog as a puppy. He was our pastor's dog. I saw him one day up at the church office and just fell in love. I told Pastor Diane that if she and Pastor Bray ever needed us to puppysit when they went out of town, we'd be happy to. Well, four days later, she called. From that moment on we were "THE puppysitters". We loved to keep him. I told Pastor Diane she didn't even have to ask, just call and tell us when and where to get him. Now, our pastors travel a lot and are just plain busy. Last summer we had Toby for almost the entire month of June.

In September, four days after we adopted a new kitten, Pastor Diane called and said that they knew they just couldn't keep up with Toby's needs and their busy lifestyle and did we want him? Well, of course we said yes. He is exactly what I want in a dog.

This is Toby after a trim. He needs to be cleaned up occasionally, but I really prefer his messy look!

We really became even more thankful for him the other day because he almost drown in our swimming pool. We have one of those Walmart above ground pools. It had slumped over for a couple of days, and apparently Toby kept jumping in. We didn't even think about it when Josh got the pool back in order and started filling it up again. Ben came running from the back of the house yelling, "Dad! Toby is in the pool!" He had jumped in because the sides still weren't up very high while the pool was filling, but then he couldn't touch bottom to jump back out. We don't know how long he was swimming before Ben saw him out of the window, but we are very grateful because it could have ended up with a very sad ending!!

So, Toby is my show and tell for today. You should see him and the kitten play!!

Oh What Fun it Was!

2007-06-14T09:55:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm back. I had such a great time. It was just so wonderful to get together with all of the teachers and staff and get to talk to them and spend time with them instead of having one minute conversations in the hall as you hurry off to class! It was so fun to see people's personalities come out in a relaxed atmosphere.

We basically had the same schedule every day. We did whatever we wanted until 6 pm. We'd walk, swim in the pool, go shopping, and such. I actually did not go to the beach. Yes, I know. Some of you are scandalized by this. I love seeing the ocean, but I am not a sunbather. My skin is too fair, and all I do is burn and freckle. We had to drive to the beach, and I just didn't want to stay out there for 4 hours. However, the pool was just downstairs, so I could come up when I wanted. I would have made myself go, however, except that my family is going to Destin in a couple of weeks, and I will get plenty of the beach scene then.

In the evenings our director did our ministry time. The first night we did a personality profile. That was not only informative but also hysterical. The point was really for us all just to recognize how everybody handles situations differently because we have different personalities. It was a lot of fun. Then the second night we talked about the fruits of the Spirit...and then we evaluated ourselves. Ouch!! As we talked through it, many of us could hear God pinpoint the areas we needed to work on individually through the others. It was hard, but good. We ended with an affirmation circle, which, of course, uses up tons of kleenex!! This was the best team building retreat I've been on. Plenty of time to relax and have fun, but then enough ministry for God to speak to you and show you what to work on without feeling overwhelmed.

I've missed a lot of posts on your blogs, so I will be working my way through them over the next few days. Now, I guess since I've had some time off, it's time for me to get working on projects. I think I will tackle the clothes closets first. If I don't make it back for awhile, you know I got buried in an avalanche!! (Listen closely for cries of help....) =o)

Going to the Beach!

2007-06-09T22:21:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to let you know that I'll be on a blogging break for the next few days. I will be on a school retreat at the beach. We are leaving right after church tomorrow and won't be back until Wednesday. Sounds just awful, doesn't it?! My school is taking all of the staff on a team building retreat to Orange Beach, which is on the Alabama/Florida boarder. We'll be (cough! cough!) working (ahem!) for the next few days. Hehehe!

Josh will be in charge of the kids. He does a great job...except he forgets to feed them. I'm about to go show the kids all the groceries I bought so that they at least know what to ask for.

I hope everybody has a great few days, and I'll catch up when I get back on Wednesday. TTFN!!

A Recipe For You

2007-06-08T23:53:00.000-05:00

I've acquired several new recipes since entering Blogland, so I thought I'd share one of my family's favorite summer recipes. It uses lots of fresh veggies and is just superb (in our humble opinions). I got this recipe from my mom, and I can't make it often enough.

Seashell Salad

2 cups sea shell (small) macaroni (uncooked)
1 bag frozen peas (thawed)
2 cups chopped cucumber
2 cups chopped tomato
2 cups chopped celery
1 purple onion (medium) sliced and separated (optional)
2 to 3 cans tuna

Sauce
1 cup mayonnaise
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Cook seashells 10 minutes, rinse with cool water, drain. Mix all sauce ingredients together in small bowl. Combine cooled seashells, vegetables, and sauce in large bowl.

Of course, you can adjust this to your own taste. We really like it juicy, so many times I double the sauce mixture...but that adds calories, so use your own judgement. The purple onion adds color and taste to the salad, but delete if you don't like that raw onion taste. I like things peppery, so I put in more pepper. This makes a bunch, but I usually double it for a HUGE batch. It lasts my family about 2 days when I do (but they eat it for lunch, supper, and sometimes even breakfast). It's great for a potluck or gathering. I hope you enjoy it!

Show and Tell Friday

2007-06-08T23:15:00.001-05:00

Kelli is hosting Show and Tell Friday once again. If you'd like to participate or see the other show and tells, then visit her site to see all of the particulars.

I'm sliding in with my show and tell a little late, but it's still Friday in my time zone. I wanted to show the first thing I ever collected. I've never been big into collectibles or nick-nacks, but when I saw these in a local jewelry store, I fell in love. Over the next year, I collected as many as I could before the jewelry store no longer had them. I don't know who the artist is, but each piece is initialed, dated, and numbered. I just thought they were precious. So, here are my angels.

Happy Hearts!!

2007-06-06T23:41:00.000-05:00

Beth (14), Matt (7) and Ben (12). I know I've posted this picture before, but it's one of my favorites of all my kids and especially shows a great picture of my "special" boys!! (Click on it for a better view.)

I am behind in my posts, once again, but I did want to give a quick post before I go to bed. Both of my boys had their yearly cardiology check-up today. Matt (who has the major heart condition) is doing just fine. He is on a 24-hour monitor to check his heart function since he's been telling me that his heart has been "beeping" fast occasionally. After he finishes up the 24 hour monitor, he'll be on an "event" monitor for several weeks. (When he feels his heart beating fast, he presses the button on the recorder so it records the episode.) Although I am slightly concerned, his heart function and everything looked just fine, so I feel good about that.

Ben's heart (who has a more minor condition that has not needed any intervention at this point) looked fine with everything being the same as last year. I was feeling a bit worried about him, but all seems to be well. I was afraid of the "surgery" word. He doesn't even understand that he has a heart condition. We just can't tell him because his autism would cause excessive worrying. I am so relieved I don't have to tell him anything at this point.

So, basically, all is well. God is good.

Here is a picture of Matt with his 24 hour monitor from last year. He doesn't like it, but he deals with it like a trooper! He's been counting the hours until we can "unpeel" him. =o)

Weird Pet Behaviors

2007-06-04T10:45:00.000-05:00

Beth and I made a discovery this weekend. My cat, Pipsy, kept digging in the bottom of my pantry, and we couldn't figure out why. She also kept chasing something around on the kitchen floor. Eventually we saw her drag a baby sized marshmallow out of the bag she had put a hole in, and carry the marshmallow in her mouth. She then put it down on the floor and batted in about. It then "disappeared". We're pretty sure she ate it. She did this all weekend. If I closed my pantry doors, she'd try to get it open or just waited for one of us to get it open, and off she was again. Now, I never SAW her eat the marshmallow, and Josh says the dog probably got to it and ate it, but I haven't seen him be all that interested in marshmallows before. My theory is she played with it and ate it. I'll be looking to prove my theory. She was so determined to get those marshmallows...it HAD to be more than a toy.

(5 min. later) Ok, my theory was wrong. She didn't eat them. My hubby came to inform me that after sweeping in the kitchen, he discovered "a million" marshmallows under the stove and refrigerator. BUT, she still dug them out of the bag and played with them...and boy, was she determined.

I love pet stories. I'd love to hear about some of your funny/weird pet moments!

Hope vs. Faith

2007-05-30T22:21:00.000-05:00

I have been asking God lately to increase my faith. One of my favorite scriptures is Hebrews 11:1 that says: Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation or title deed) of the things we hope for, being the proof of things we do not see and the conviction of their reality. (Amplified version). So, basically it is saying that Faith is TRULY believing that something we have prayed for is definitely going to happen...no doubt in our minds....it will occur...even though it hasn't happened yet. It is receiving a promise from God about something and having no doubt it will occur.

The Bible is filled with promises for every believer. There is a bunch of personal things that I'd like to see happen, too. The problem is, I realize that I live much more in the world of HOPE instead of FAITH. There is a fine line that must be crossed. I can hope for stuff all day, but it's faith that moves God.

So, how do I move from hope to faith? My pastor and cell leader have talked about this. Everything starts in prayer. I have to pray through my "hopes" until I hear God's voice (in prayer or in His word) promise me that that "hope" will be taken care of. Then I have to choose to believe that He will actually do it. Once I believe that, then I am in faith. I have the "title deed" to that promise, and I believe it will be done. Now I don't have to "worry" about it, because I know God WILL move...in HIS timing...without a doubt.

Now, that's hard. I can honestly say that I don't have a whole lot of those title deeds. I have a bunch of "hopes". I am asking God to enlarge my faith so that I can move out of the realm of hope and into the realm of faith. That takes work, too. I have to spend that consistent time with Him so that I can hear His voice and receive those promises that move my hopes into faith.

My favorite scripture is Luke 1:45 - Blessed is she who has believed what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished. (Elizabeth is singing to Mary...so the Bible actually does use "she", which I love.) Sounds like faith to me.

So, what do I believe the Lord has said to me WILL BE accomplished, and what do I just HOPE will be accomplished? Such a fine but imperative line to cross. Oh God, enlarge my faith so that Your will in my life can be accomplished!

On a different note, my husband helped Trella and Bruce move a uhaul full of stuff into their new house today! YEY!! I believe they were spending the night there tonight. I haven't seen the house yet, but I can't wait.

Memorial Day

2007-05-28T11:42:00.000-05:00

Thank you to all soldiers who have fought to keep our country free. All have sacrificed, and some have paid the ultimate sacrifice. Thank you. Freedom is not free. I pray for everyone who is in active duty now for their safety. God bless you and your families. (Jason, I pray for you and Christie everyday -- Thank you!)

Blogline

2007-05-27T16:44:00.000-05:00

Just curious, but how much of a delay do you notice between somebody posting and it showing up on your bloglines? I have noticed that it takes quite awhile, like several hours, for a new post to show up. Am I the only one who has noticed this? Any ideas??

Show and Tell Friday

2007-05-25T21:30:00.000-05:00

Kelli is hosting Show and Tell Friday. Head over to her blog and check out all of the people who are participating. If you'd like to participate, just link to her site.

Here is my new iPod shuffle

Since I am behind with my posts, I am combining Show and Tell and Mother's Day. Now, I know this isn't old or "crafty", but it is what my family surprised me with on Mother's Day. I was so thrilled!! I don't listen to music all of the time just because, as a teacher, I feel 'silence is golden' during the school year. However, as summer approaches, and also occasionally as I do housework, I think, "Gee, it would be nice to listen to music as I do housework or walk." My daughter got one of these for Christmas, and since then I've been eyeing it. I never even thought to ask for one of these, but Beth knew what I'd like. You could have knocked me off my computer chair when they brought it to me. I have downloaded a handful of favorite songs and have many CD's waiting to be gone through. I've even purchased a song or two. This will be a big motivator for my walking program this summer! Thanks Josh, Beth, Ben and Matt!!

OK...So I Like It Cold!

2007-05-21T22:54:00.001-05:00

I must admit to being very hot natured. Even before I had all of this 'extra insulation', I was always hot. I live in Louisiana where not only is it hot, it's humid, which is a sticky-yuck kind of hot. I guess I get carried away trying to get comfortable. This is a picture of Josh and Beth watching tv tonight trying to stay warm. Did I mention that I LOVE air conditioning? Here they are huddled under a blanket for survival, so they claim. I'm wandering around in a sleeveless night gown and not a bit cold. After snapping this picture, I relented and made it just a tad warmer in the house. However, I think they're still under the blanket in the living room. It's not THAT cold in here!! =o) And summer has just begun....

Beth's 8th Grade Graduation

2007-05-19T19:36:00.001-05:00

Beth graduated Thursday night. She has been at Harvest Christian Academy since she was in K-4. Out of her 10 years there, I have taught there 7 years. It will NOT be the same going to school next year without her. (Sniff!) We are so proud of her! We really did not do a good job with the pictures. I don't have a picture of her up close with her hat on or one with all the awards she received. She was Salutatorian and received the Language, Math, and Science awards, and the "Lifer" award. She received medals for each of the academic awards and 2 beautiful trophies for Salutatorian and Lifetime. I took a picture of them, but it's not "in the moment." I know friends and family snapped pictures. Hopefully somebody got some of the pictures we missed. CONGRATULATIONS BETHIE!!! We love you and are so proud of you!!

So Many Posts, So Little Time

2007-05-18T22:17:00.001-05:00

Al...most...there! School is almost over. The kids basically have 6 days or so left, and I have a few more than that. I am dreadfully behind in posts. Show and Tells, Mother's Day, Beth graduated from 8th grade last night so of course I have pictures.... Hopefully tomorrow I'll get Beth's graduation post up.

I did want to say that where else but Louisiana can you eat crawfish bread and stuffed artichokes for dinner?! Well, I'm sure there ARE other places, but it just seemed like a unique supper to me. I picked both up at the local outdoor market/veggie place. Yummy!! =o)

I hope everybody has a great weekend. Even though I haven't been posting, I sure have been reading everybody's blogs daily. I really enjoy them all.

I'm Still Here

2007-05-11T22:25:00.000-05:00

I know I haven't been posting much lately. Don't give up on me. This last month of school is so hard, as you all know! When I'm finally NOT at school or doing school work, my brain is just tired. I am enjoying everybody's blog, however. Bloglines is a great way to keep track of everybody...thanks Candy!

I will share one little thing God showed me the other day. I had been praying at the House of Prayer (Our church has a small building dedicated 24/7 to prayer. It has worship music playing, comfy chairs, and a large cross. It is such an anointed place, I don't know how I survived without it. Isn't that neat?!) and was almost packing up to leave when God brought my name to my mind. He reminded me that the meaning of my name is 'Faithful Friend'. Then He so gently said, "That's what I want you to be to Me. Be 'Ruth' to me." Now, our pastors have been talking lately about DAILY prayer time in order to have that stress free life I've mentioned before, but I was not expecting that little twist! It was God's way of calling me to a more consistent prayer life. So that's my on-going challenge...one that I'll gladly take!

A big Happy Mother's Day to all of you out there!!

Mother's Day Give Away

2007-05-06T22:38:00.000-05:00

href="http://www.5minutesformom.com/1477/mothers-day-giveaway/">

5 Minutes for Mom is having several give away contests for Mother's Day. Head over there and check it out! (I can't figure out why some of the Html code is showing, but oh well!)

Ruth Interviewed

2007-05-05T19:25:00.000-05:00

Trella did this interview the other day and asked if anyone wanted to take part. I volunteered myself and here are her questions, and my answers. According to the rules, I must answer at least 5 of the 6 questions. I actually answered all 6. Drumroll please....

(I don't know why this post is skipping spaces and lines. Sorry!)

1) What is the most beautiful thing you have ever seen?
Now, I'm not trying to be overly spiritual here, but honestly the first answer that came to
my mind was the cross. At the cross I can find everything I need for a victorious life here
on earth, and at the cross is where I received salvation for eternity. At the cross is where
I can place all my problems and fears. Although there are many views more aesthetically
pleasing, to me, the cross is a beautiful place.

2) What do people like best about you?
Well, Matt (my 7 year old) says I'm cuddly. However, I think others that I spend time with
would say that I make people feel comfortable - both friends and new people in new
situations. I am definitely a peacemaker. (Now, that can be good AND bad.) Even in
ministering to people, when someone I have worked with in the past has left the church and
is ready to come back, they feel free to call me.

3) What person has influenced your life the most? why?
This is hard because there are SO many people to chose from. However, at the moment, I
would have to chose my pastor for the past 16 or so years, Pastor Bray Sibley. The past 5
years has especially changed my life and who I am. I could write a book about it, but I'll
summarize. Our church moved into having weekend Encounters, where you basically have
a 'face to face' encounter with God. Wounds are healed. Strongholds are demolished. Faith
grows by leaps and bounds. My life has been drastically changed by this. Now, not only
do I and my family benefit, but I seek to help others do the same. There is nothing more
rewarding then watching somebody you reached out to become who God created them to
be as THEY get healed and set free. Pastor Bray's anointing, obedience, and leadership
has influenced me and continually challenges me to reach God's destiny for my life.

4) If you could choose to be an animal, what animal would you choose to be? why?
I would want to be a spoiled, lazy housecat. I could sleep as much as I wanted. I would deal
with people when I feel like it. I would be queen of the household!!! (At least, that's how MY
cats act.)

5) What would your family say you're like first thing in the morning?
They would say I am slightly grumpy and very schedule orientated. My husband says I am
humorless at that hour. In my defense, my alarm goes off at 4:40 a.m. (I don't get up until
5:10), and I have to get 4 of us out of the door by 7 a.m. I am a night person, so I usually
don't go to bed early enough. Any night person that has to get up so early every morning
would agree with my evaluation of this being cruel and unusual punishment. My principal
doesn't seem to agree with me.....

6)Share a quirky habit you have. How long have you had it?
Hmmmm. I read books I like over and over and over. I have to be in the mood to read a new
book, even if it's from my favorite author. My husband says I say things 3 times in a row
quickly when I feel an urgency in something, like "Watch it! Watch it! Watch it!" while he's
driving.

Are you interested in being interviewed? Just tell me in the comments, and in a few days I will post some questions for you to answer. The rules are: You must answer at least five of the six questions. You will update your weblog with the answers to the questions and include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions (that you write). So on and so on...Have fun, and thanks for volunteering!

Get Your Tissues

2007-04-28T19:41:00.000-05:00

I just figured out how to add music to my site. I've enjoyed everybody's lists so much, I decided to do it, too. The song that plays first is an older one by Mark Shultz, and you probably have heard it. It is a heart-rending song of a daddy praying for his son. This song meant so much to me during the times of Matt's heart surgeries (and still does), but also it continues to remind me of my prayers for Ben as he battles autism. The first time I heard this I was driving, and I almost had to pull off the road. It SO mirrored my prayers that it took my breath away, and I just sobbed. I also think that every parent can sympathize as well, because which one of us wouldn't want to take a physical or emotional pain for our children so they don't have to hurt? This song is really every parent's cry at some time. Here are the lyrics:

I'm down on my knees again tonight
I'm hoping this prayer will turn out right
See there is a boy that needs Your help
I've done all that I can do myself
His mother is tired I'm sure You can understand
Each night as he sleeps She goes in to hold his hand
And she tries not to cry As the tears fill her eyes

CHORUS: Can You hear me? Am I getting through tonight?
Can You see him? Can You make him feel all right?
If You can hear me Let me take his place somehow
See, he's not just anyone He's my son

Sometimes late at night I watch him sleep
I dream of the boy he'd like to be
I try to be strong and see him through
But God who he needs right now is You
Let him grow old Live life without this fear
What would I be Living without him here
He's so tired and he's scared Let him know that You're there

CHORUS
Can You hear me? Can You see him? Please don't leave him He's my son

A Quick, Random Thought

2007-04-26T17:20:00.000-05:00

I'm planning on writing something soon, but until then, here's a little fact that I found amusing...At three minutes and four seconds after 2 AM on the 6th of May this year, the time and date will be 02:03:04 05/06/07. This will never happen again!

You don't even have to comment...but I thought it was cute! =o)

Show and Tell...Saturday (?)

2007-04-21T22:34:00.000-05:00

Even though I missed Show and Tell Friday, I didn't think anybody would mind if I extended it to Saturday. =o)

This was my grandparents grandfather clock. I have loved this clock since I was a little girl. My grandparents lived in Wisconsin, and we lived in Louisiana, so I'd only get to their home once a year at most, but I distinctly remember the layout of the house, the special smell of that house, and...the chimes from this clock. As my grandparents grew older, I remember one of my aunts commenting that, one day, all she wanted from their house was this clock. I never, as a grandchild, thought that I could ever have it, but when I heard that comment, I remember thinking, "Oh well. So much for that." Years later when my grandparents passed, my other aunt called me to see if I was interested in having this clock! Now, I never had mentioned to anybody (including my mom), that I loved this clock. I was excited, but I was so surprised that the other aunt didn't want it. Sure enough, she didn't. So, now I have the clock!! It is such a special piece of memory for me. Isn't God good? He gives you more than you can hope or imagine, and even the little wishes count. It chimes every 15 minutes and on the hour and has such a nice sound. It will be a wonderful piece to pass from generation to generation.

A Stress Free Life

2007-04-17T18:21:00.000-05:00

We talked about this in my women's cell group and then at church. It's pretty good, so I thought I'd share some of my notes on this. I need to process it MUCH more, so the best thing for me to do is blog it!! =o)

Is a stress free life possible? Well, it's what God wants for us. Take a look at a familiar scripture, but in the Message Bible:

Matthew 11:28 -30
Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly.

Wow! I like that version of this scripture. I know the Message isn't the most "accurate" translation, but boy, it can sure get an idea across!

The first step to a stress free life is "Come to me." If we are stressed, the first thing we need to check is are we going to Him, or are we allowing our busyness or circumstances to keep us from Him? He is where we find peace, joy, strength, etc.... No wonder we can quickly stress out when we don't take the time to spend with Him. Just daily routine can quickly zap the joy and pile on the stress, not to mention when a "monkey wrench" gets thrown in the routine! Our pastor always says to make an unbreakable appointment with God...and keep it! So, in order to live above the stress line, we must take time to run to God, lay everything at His feet, and let Him "watch our backs".

To be continued....

Happy 14th Birthday Beth!

2007-04-14T11:29:00.000-05:00

(Beth surfing at Universal in January)

My baby turned 14 yesterday. (Sniff!) For her birthday I gave her a surprise shopping spree. There isn't a mall in the area we live, so we have to drive a bit to get to one. She knew we were going to the mall, but what she didn't know was that we were picking up 3 of her friends on the way. She also didn't know I was giving her a gift visa card once we got there. AND she didn't know that I was letting them shop without my worthy assistance. I headed off in my own direction. She had a great time and got a lot of new clothes, which she really needed. (I also got the reaction I was hoping for...that drop-jawed look when she got her visa.) It went later than I thought, so I wound up taking everybody out to dinner at The Olive Garden. She said it had been her best birthday yet. =o)

I still can't believe she is going to high school next year....

"Real Mums"

2007-04-11T23:02:00.000-05:00

Ashley tagged me to do this "Real Mums" post. I've been reading some awesome posts on this, so I must admit to being a bit intimidated....but here goes:

(as I'm typing these, I realize it is a bit heavy...sorry! I have 3 wonderful kids, 2 of which have special needs in one way or another...so some of this is spilling out here)

A real mom lets her 7 year old child sleep in bed with her because he needs the security.

A real mom lets her child sleep in bed with her because he could have easily grown up in heaven instead of earth, so he can stay with her until he is 18 if he wishes.

A real mom summons the strength to turn her child over to the surgeon 3 times his first year of life so he can live, even though she wants to die from the hurt of having to do so.

A real mom always watches for blueness in her child's lips and fingers (without seeming to do so) while letting him participate in normal activities even though she is sometimes afraid.

A real mom studys for hours with her child so he can pass a test because he can't focus in class.

A real mom cries when she realizes her child will always have problems making friends.

A real mom prays for God to send a real friend to her child even though he is unable to be a typical friend, and then rejoices when it actually happens, to her utter amazement.

A real mom spends hours on the phone and internet researching what will help her child best thrive with a condition that seems completely hopeless to combat and then turns life around to do it.

A real mom does her best to make her "regular" child not feel left out in the wake of all the special needs.

A real mom stays up past midnight talking with her child when she has a personal crisis.

A real mom cries when she realizes her child is heading to high school.

A real mom has melt downs sometimes.

A real mom believes that God will perform miracles in her children.

A real mom takes a nap for her own sanity and the sanity of her children.

A real mom gives her child that last yummy bite of her favorite food.

A real mom apologizes to her children when she is wrong.

And mostly, a real mom cries out to God for wisdom to raise her children.

I'm not sure who to tag because I think most of you have already been tagged. I know I can tag Tonja and Nancy. Have any of you not been tagged yet? Let me know and I'll gladly tag you!

Isn't He Sweet?!

2007-04-11T14:45:00.000-05:00

Josh brought these home for me today. It's our 15th anniversary today! Although we are comfortable and "used to each other", I love him more today than ever before. He is a wonderful man, he loves the Lord with all his heart, he's an awesome dad, and he is a great friend.

(Can somebody tell me how I can put words above a picture? I keep trying, but the blog won't let me.)

A Little about Me

2007-04-10T13:36:00.000-05:00

I enjoyed reading these on several blogs, so I thought I'd do one today. I copied this from Trella's blog (hope ya don't mind!).

01. What time is it? 1:40 pm
02. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? The Nativity
03. Diamonds or Pearls? Diamonds
04. What is your favorite TV show? Extreme Home Makeover
05. What did you have for breakfast? a hard boiled egg
06. What is your middle name? Helen
07. What is your favorite cuisine? melted Mexican cheese for chips
08. What foods do you dislike? liver, brussel sprouts, etc...
09. What are your favorite chips? Sun Chips
10. What is your favorite CD at the moment? Leeland (it has the song "Carried to the Table" that really, really touched me)
11. What kind of car do you drive? Mercury Villager
12. Favorite Sandwich? chicken sandwich with bacon and cheddar cheese from Chili's or Cracker Barrel
13. What are characteristics you can't stand? undependable, untruthful
14. What are your favorite clothes? my nightgown at the end of the day =o)
15. If you could go anywhere on vacation, where would you go? back to Disney World
16. Where would you want to retire? somewhere cooler than Louisiana
17.Favorite time of day? late at night
18. Where were you born? Kansas City, Missouri
19. What is your favorite sport to watch? Football...especially the Saints or LSU
20. Coke or Pepsi? Coke! Coke! and more Coke!
21. Beavers of ducks? hmmmm.... how bout penguins
22. Are you morning person or a night owl? night owl
23. Pedicure or manicure? pedicure
24. What did you want to be when you were little? a teacher
25. What is your best childhood memory? a vacation to Disney World with my parents and best friend. We had sooooo much fun.
26. Ever been to Africa? no
27. Ever been toilet papering? No (I helped plan one, though, but "couldn't" participate)
28. Been in a car accident? Yes, but nothing too serious
29. Favorite day of the week? Saturday
30. Favorite Restaurant? The Melting Pot, Chili's, good Mexican....anything to not cook!
31. Favorite flower? rose
32. Favorite ice-cream? chocolate chip
33. Favorite fast food restaurant? Chick-fil-a or Canes
34. How many times did you fail your drivers' test? passed the first time
35. From whom did you get your last E-mail? somebody from one of my heart e-mail loops
36. Which store would you chose to max out your credit card? Dillards...as long as somebody else is paying the bill!!
37. Last person you went to dinner with? my friend and principal of the school I teach at
38. What are you listening to right now? nothing...silence is golden
39. What is your favorite color? purple
40. How many tattoos do you have? none
41. How many are you sending this e-mail to? I am not e-mailing this
42. Favorite magazine? Quick Cooking....but now it's called Simple and Delicious
43. Coffee or Tea? tea but only if it is iced and pre-sweetend
44. Do you tan easily or burn easily? burn and freckle
45. Do you color your hair? yes...I was born blond and plan to stay that way
46. What was the first car you ever purchased without the help of your parents? the Mercury Villager I now drive
47. What is your most dreaded household chores? dishes
48. Do you like life? yes, but I want it to slow down
49. Is there anyone that you just can't stand? yes, but I really am working on that because I don't like that I feel that way
50. Are you anxious about tomorrow? I try not to be

Thinking Blogger Award

2007-04-09T14:05:00.000-05:00

This was awarded to me by my good friend Trella at Word of Truth Christian Academy. I've only just begun blogging, so I was very touched that she nominated me. Her blog was one of two that I read daily, and I enjoyed it so much, I decided to give it a try.

So now, in turn, I will award 5 others for this award. It comes from The Thinking Blogger, so if I gave this award to you and you'd like to participate, go check out that blog for the rules on participating.

1. My friend George's blog "The Secret Place of Elyon" I've been checking out his blog for a long time. He has been battling cancer, and his blog has been such a testimony of his love to God and God's love to Him.

2. My friend Tonja's blog "Raising Eagles" She is a friend from college and has always had a deep love for the Lord and great wisdom and insight.

3. My friend Nancy's blog "Are We Having Fun Yet?" Nancy and I are friends who have "never met". We met in the "heart world" online. Both of us have a child with a major congenital heart defect. Her child, Jessica, has a terminal condition. Nancy is so much fun and positive through it all, and I have very much enjoyed her blog.

4. I also wanted to award Ash's blog "Life is a Fairy Tale Written by God's Fingers". She has been so encouraging to me since I've started, and I've enjoyed her blog immensely.

5. And I must award this back to Trella, even though she gave it to me. I wouldn't be blogging if it weren't for enjoying her blog so much. She also introduced me to all of her blogging friends, who I have really enjoyed.

I've met a whole bunch of new friends through this blog, and I really enjoy each blog. They are all unique and have great humor and godly wisdom. Please visit each one of the blogs I've listed in my "Blogs I visit daily". Each one of them deserve all the awards around. It IS hard to pick when all are so deserving and you don't want to leave anybody out or hurt anybody's feelings. So, thanks to everybody....you are ALL awesome!!

Happy Easter!

2007-04-06T15:02:00.000-05:00

Ben (12) at MGM at Disney

(I can't get my post to skip lines....so I've color coded. Anybody know why this is happening?)

It is Friday, and I am glad. It is time for Easter holiday. No homework for a week. Yahooooo!! I know everybody starts dragging this time of the year, but I feel so worn out as far as school goes. My middle child, Ben, is autistic. He is very high functioning, but he is not an independent learner. He "spaces" out during class, and really seems to miss a lot. His reading comprehension is terrible, and I think it's mostly due to lack of focus, because he can read the words and not have a clue about what he just read. It's also processing....which is what autism is all about. We have to work hard at home after school is over just to keep up. We are BOTH so sick of homework that summer can't come quick enough. All the kids go to the Christian school I teach at which has no resource room. So, we make do with some accommodations. He's so smart, but it gets buried under all that processing. This is one of those areas I struggle to leave at the cross, and it's definitely one of my "joy-zappers". I working on that....

I was praying yesterday, thanking God for sending His Son. God reminded me that every drop of blood that Jesus shed was for a purpose. Every drop signifies a promise, a victory, an overcoming. I prayed that I would not allow one drop of that precious blood to be wasted...that I would fulfill the destiny God has for me...that I would claim every single thing that that blood purchased for me. Jesus already paid the price, so I sure don't want any of it to be wasted.

I hope everybody has a great Easter weekend. We are going to my parents house for a crawfish boil. It has become a wonderful tradition that I plan to keep. However, we have a cold front right now, and the high tomorrow is only 58!! Now, I realize that some of you live in the north, and that is warm for you....and, for that matter, the thought of a crawfish boil is alarming! However, us Louisianaians LOVE our crawfish!! Not to mention that it is supposed to be a lot warmer than 58 in April. However, I'll eat crawfish in any weather!!

Have a blessed Easter!

Joy of the Lord #4

2007-04-02T22:09:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to say how much I've enjoyed meeting everybody who has stopped by my blog. It's been wonderful getting to know everybody! I am now making my daily rounds to many different blogs and thoroughly enjoying all of the posts.

I wanted to post point #4 about the joy of the Lord because this is the point that REALLY hit home for me. It must be where I am at the moment and where I need to focus. I have found that rewriting and rephrasing these points for others to follow has helped me tremendously to process and retain it all....which was my hope from the get-go. =o)

#4 Enjoy the Process

I've mentioned it before, but we must remember that ALL THINGS, be it "good" or "bad" are working together for us...for God to form character in us, for us to conquer the enemy, for us to grow in strength and faith, etc.... And, you know, I can live with that. However, I'm not so sure about "enjoying the process". Is that really necessary??? Isn't sheer obedience enough?

Well, obedience is a start, but we can't park there. At first obedience is a good step, but do we really give it our all just because of obedience? It might carry some weight at first, but eventually I tire out of doing it "because it is right" and begin to "go through the motions". But, when my passion gets involved, THEN I do things because I want to, and I have energy and desire to do it the best of the best...not just get it done.

Joseph spent time in the prison and the palace. He excelled in both places. Now, I can't imagine he LOVED being in the prison, but at some point he moved beyond obedience to give it his all. I've got to learn to give whatever growth situation I am in my all, regardless of where I consider it puts me...in the prison or the palace. It's kind of like hearing God say, "Until you enjoy cleaning the toilets, you're not going to be released from it." Why? Because I'm not giving the situation my best...I'm merely existing until it's over.

Being upset and worrying about it won't add anything to life. So, even in stressful situations, I am trying to learn to stop and laugh at the situation...knowing God is in control. Worrying won't help, anyway. I can't see the "big picture", so I am trying to count it all joy....even when I don't understand.

Lord, help me to embrace what you have for me, even when I don't understand. Let me laugh as I learn to follow Your process in my life. Don't let me get stuck just obeying, but let me find joy in the passion of pursuing Your ways and leaving mine behind.

So, anyway, I don't know if that makes any sense to anybody else. It's probably still obvious I'm processing that step. I guess I need to laugh as I sort it out. =o)

Joy of the Lord #3

2007-03-31T09:14:00.000-06:00

HOORAY!! It's Saturday. I love weekends. This weekend I am home just running a few errands, bringing Matt to a birthday party, and trying to take it easy. I wasn't home last weekend, and next weekend will be very busy as well. At least I have a week off after that. Beth is on a youth Encounter this weekend, and I am praying God will touch her in a special way.

I thought I'd post the 3rd point in the Joy of the Lord sermon. It was quite good!

#3 Receive His Word

Joy is a gift from God. You just ask for it and receive it. It works like any other type of spiritual gift or promise. We can't earn it or work ourselves up to it; we have it because Jesus paid the price for it and delights to give it to us. We just have to ask and believe in faith that we receive it. It's kind of like the gift of wisdom, or salvation, for that matter - ask for it and receive it by faith. So now in the mornings, one of the things I do is ask for joy and wisdom and then thank Him that I will have both of those this day.

God's word also says in James 1:2 to consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds. Now, that doesn't sound near as nice, does it? BUT James goes on to say, basically, that the reason we should rejoice in the trials is because God wants to develop us. If you are like me, you'd rather escape then deal with problems! The problem with that is, if we keep escaping, we never develop God's character in us, and we keep circling around the same mountain over and over. I'd rather face new mountains than carve a rut in a path around the old one!! The situation that feels like it will bring nothing but lack actually causes you to lack nothing!!

So, now, every time I deal with an irate parent (from school), or I'm having to face some issue in life, big or little, I am doing my best not to get aggravated that I have to deal with it. Instead I try to see it as a way for God to form some character in me. It's still not FUN, don't get me wrong. But if I can see some Devine purpose in it, it tends not to steal my joy.

Have a blessed weekend!!

God's Coffee

2007-03-29T17:11:00.000-06:00

My friend, Sharon, sent me this e-mail. I thought it was too good not to share!

GOD'S COFFEE

A group of alumni, highly established in their careers, got together to visit their old university professor. Conversation soon turned into complaints about stress in work and in life.

Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an assortment of cups--porcelain, plastic, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite--telling them to help themselves to the coffee.

When all the students had a cup of coffee in hand, the professor said, "If you noticed, all the nice-looking, expensive cups were taken up leaving behind the plan and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress. Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to the coffee. In most cases, it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink."

He continued, "What all of you really wanted was coffee, not the cup, but you consciously went for the best cups...and then you began eyeing each others' cups. Now consider this. Life is the coffee; the jobs, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life, and the type of cup we have does not definite, nor change the quality of life we live. Sometimes by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee God has provided us."

God brews the coffee, not the cups...

Enjoy your coffee! The happiest people don't have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything!

Blessings!!

Ruth =o)

Joy of the Lord #2

2007-03-28T15:03:00.000-06:00

It's been a busy few days as I've had grades due. Report cards go out Thursday, and, boy, was I behind in grading. I have cell group on both Tuesdays and Wednesday nights, so I keep plenty busy. We had a Women's Encounter at church this weekend, and it was awesome! However, while I was there, God did not grade my papers or average my grades....unfortunately. =o)

Point number 2 of the sermon is pretty short, so I thought I'd try to squeeze it in here quick. It's one we've heard so many times, but somehow it is not that easy to implement.

Point #2 - Don't Worry or Be Anxious

Luke 12:25 says, "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life." There are a multitude of scriptures about this topic, so apparently God is serious about it. We are to be "anxious for nothing". I always try to remind myself that nothing takes God by surprise; He is aware of everything that has happened, is happening, and will happen. Everything, even the bad stuff, will work out for my good IF I give it to Him. The secret is to give it to Him and let Him keep it!! We need to take our concerns to Him in prayer....pray about them....and then leave them there and not worry or stew about it. Easier said than done, but I can sure see how that would help me keep my joy!! So, I am asking the Holy Spirit to tap me on the shoulder every time I worry about something instead of pray about it.

Have a blessed few days!!

Joy of the Lord #1

2007-03-25T15:13:00.000-06:00

I am avoiding grading papers. Once I get started, it isn't too bad, but boy, the anticipation of it is terrible. So, I thought now would be a great time to blog!! =o)

We recently talked about the joy of the Lord at church. I was in desperate need of that message and need to get the CD! It has really had a great impact on my life in the last week. One of our youth pastors, Trey Bollinger, shared with us.

Jesus was anointed with the "oil of gladness" which is why so many followed Him. He gave us 6 steps to receive joy. I guess I'll cover them one at a time so this doesn't get too long.

1. Be Thankful

Psalm 100: 4 tells us to Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. No matter what our circumstances are, we can still be thankful for the many blessings in our lives. Did you wake up today? Do you have food to eat? Are you thankful for your family? God has already done so much for us that we can't let present problems overshadow our thankfulness. After all, Paul rejoiced in his chains. We may not FEEL like being thankful, but it's the key to get out of our "funk".

There is the story of when Jesus healed the 10 lepers. They all went off to show themselves to the priest to be declared clean. Afterwards, only 1 of the lepers came back to thank Jesus. How many times has God fixed something for us....something just "happened" to work out....and we didn't even think about thanking him? I personally don't believe in coincidences. I know when I get to heaven, I'm going to be able to see everything He did for me, protected me from, etc. , and I didn't even realize it.

One thing that I am working on is even being thankful in the midst of the "unfun" stuff. Today, on the way to church, we blew a tire. Instead of getting aggravated about it, I chose to be thankful that it happened AFTER we got off the interstate, and we were right by an empty parking lot. I bet an angel was holding his finger over that hole so that when it blew, we weren't going 70 mph (ok, 65 because Josh was driving). We were safe, the kids and I were only 15 minutes late to church, and the van now has a nice, new, safe tire.

Tune in tomorrow (or the next few days) for step #2.

Ok, I've procrastinated long enough. I guess I must continue on with the never ending laundry (Thank You, Lord, that we have PLENTY of clothes to wear) and the non-stop grading (Thank You that I have a job). Have a blessed week!!

2007-03-22T17:51:00.000-06:00

These are my precious children...Matt (7), Beth (13), and Ben (12) This picture was taken at Give Kids the World on Matt's Make-A-Wish trip in January.

Welcome to my blog!

2007-03-22T17:26:00.000-06:00

Since I have been enjoying the posts from several friends' blogs, I decided to give it a try. I'm sure I'll figure out all the fancy stuff as I go. I've also desired to have the discipline to journal and reprocess Words I get from church and cell, but I just don't seem to have an affinity for paper and pencil. Since I enjoy being on the compter so much, it hit me that I could "blog" it, and not only would I get something out of it, but maybe somebody else would, too.

Just a brief intro. I am married to Josh...it'll be 15 years in April. He is one awesome guy!! He teaches at the local high school and leads a cell group from our church. He has also written a Christian sci-fi fiction book. Our oldest child is Beth who will be 14 in April. She is finishing up her 8th grade year at Harvest Christian Academy where I teach as well. I can't believe my baby is heading to high school next year. Ben is 12 and in 6th grade. He loves playing Nintendo, thinking about Nintendo, writing about Nintendo, and dreaming about Nintendo. He is autisic but high functioning. Most parts of school are a challenge, but with accomodations and extra work on our part, he's hanging in there. He also has a heart condition that has not required any surgery at this time. We are believing for a miracle that he never will. Our youngest is Matt who is 7. He is a lot of fun and becoming more social all the time. He has a major heart condition called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). He had 3 open heart surgeries to toally rewire his heart and blood vessels his first year of life. He is SUCH a miracle. I'll tell the whole story one day. I put a website together for him at www.geocities.com/mattburton_99 that tells a lot of his story.

As for me, I teach middle school Language Arts at Harvest Christian Academy, which is an excellent school. I am also very involved with cell groups from our church. I love to read; Lori Wick is my favorite author. I don't have much time to pursue personal hobbies, but since I check out several blogs daily, I thought I'd try to see if I can make time to blog on a regular basis.

So, welcome to my blog. Even if I'm the only person to read it, I know I will benefit by getting my thoughts concrete enough to write about them. LOL!!

Blessings!

2007-03-21T21:10:00.000-06:00