Praises 2 Sing

Whomp Charm Giveaway

2011-01-06T21:18:00.000-08:00

I just love free stuff. Anyway I can get, I just want it.

There is another website giving away Whomp Charmz. You probably wonder what in the world this is. Well it's charmz for your silly bands. You can go to www.whompcharmz.com to view all the different kinds of charms.

But to get your free ones, you must enter at this following website...

http://mommyenterprises.com/freebie-blog/

Find her post about the Whomp Charmz and follow her instructions. Be sure to leave a comment on her page or you will not be entered into her drawing.

Well, good luck.

FREE Bible software

2011-01-02T17:53:00.000-08:00

I know at this time of year that there are lot of people who are thinking of New Year's resolutions. Well, if you have a resolution to read your Bible more, then I want to tell you about a this Bible software that my husband and I use. The best thing, is that it's completely FREE! Yep, I said FREE!

It comes complete with Strongs' Concordance, Topic notes tab, Study notes tab, Journal notes tab, dictionary, search button and many more. You can read your Bible straight from your computer and type in your daily notes under the journal notes tab. It automatically adds the date for you. So no more keeping up your your Bible and journal note book. It's all in one place. If you are preparing for a message it has a Topic notes tab or a Study notes tab to collect all your scriptures. It even has room for you to make your own notes.

The software comes with the King James Version. There are over 20 versions to choose from. Some are free and some require a small fee. I personally like the Amplified or the Easy to Read version.

All you have to do is click on this link...E-Sword to download. This is not just a free trail. It's the complete updated version.It's virus, malware and spyware free. But be sure to run it through your spyware before completely downloading.

Of all the New Year's resolutions that you could make this year, I pray that you make this one and keep it. Just think how spiritually fit you will be this time next year. I would love to hear your comments about this program.

Happy New Year,
Love to all,
Dee Dee

SEE HERE: 24 Photo Cards FREE! Deal ends 12/31

2010-12-28T22:37:00.000-08:00

SEE HERE: 24 Photo Cards FREE! Deal ends 12/31

Have a birthday, baby shower or special event coming up soon? Do you want to send out New Years or Valentine cards with a recent family photo? How about “Thank You” cards? Well – you’ve only got a couple days left!

SeeHere is still offering their fabulous FREE photo card deal through 12/31 ONLY. Now is the time to think ahead - don’t miss out on such a great deal!
•Log in or sign-up with SeeHere
•Create your 4×8 cards (only works for 4×8)
•Add exactly 24 to your cart
•Checkout with promo code 25cards (case sensitive)
•Your total will be $2.49 Shipped!!
This is a great deal, but will end on 12/31 – and you know you won’t want to be up making these on New Years Eve

God's goodness through His children

2010-12-26T18:07:00.000-08:00

So, I have to share this short story of what happened to us the other day when we were going Christmas shopping.

We were on our way to the Spanish Fort shopping center and were crossing the bay. And for those of you who are not from Mobile, the Mobile Bay is what divides Mobile and Baldwin county. Those are 2 counties in lower Alabama. There is some really good shopping on the eastern shore. The bridge is about 7 miles long. So, we were on this bridge crossing the bay and our tire blew. To me, it is the absolutely most scary place to blow a tire. There is not much of an emergency lane. This is interstate and there are cars, trucks, SUV's and 18 wheelers, flying by at 70 MPH. There are a lot of horrible stories of what have happened to people when they have broke down on this bridge because the emergency lane is so small.

We pull over and we notice that we are about 1 1/2 miles from the nearest exit which is about half way across the bay. We are not sure what to do. There is really no room to change a tire. It takes us minutes to decide if we are going to even get out. Well, trying to stay calm because we have the kids with us, we pray, rebuke fear, the enemy and his plans and ask for God's angels to come and minister and war for us immediately. I did not want us to be a bay bridge statistic or on the nightly news.

Lynn gets out to check the damage. And boy, is there damage. The 2 mo. old tire is completely shredded. This is the 3rd tire on this same side that we have replaced in a year. Thank goodness it was on the right side closest to the bridge wall. But we were still too close to have room to change it. Lynn checks the spare tire. And to no surprise, the spare tire is flat as well.

After a few minutes of prayer and asking God what we need to do in this situation, Lynn calls a dear friend from church. Our family members were in not available at this time to help us. Figures, right? But thanks to God and our church friend (who is church family), he is available and drops what he is doing and goes and gets us a tire. While we are waiting, Lynn decides to drive about 5 MPH in the emergency lane to the nearest exit so that we could change the tire when he got there.

What started out to be a very scary and stressful event ended up being a fun one. Because the car was wibbling, wobbling and galloping about, we pretended that we were horsemen on a journey to the east singing the "Round Em Up Cowboy" song. Singing that song led to another song and then to another song and then to another song. What a relief that was. The kids really helped me out in this situation. Not only was our friend on his way with a new tire, but our kids were lightening the load by singing songs.

We finally made it to the exit. It was really a pretty day and we got to enjoy the scenery. As well as watch people fish. So after about an hour, our friend finally arrived with our new tire. Merry Christmas, Lynn. You got another new tire for your car. Maybe this one will last longer than a few months.

I don't know what we would have done if it were not for our friend. Not only was it a blessing that day to have a tire and be able to go on our way, but that blessing has stuck with me for a few days now. The thought that someone would drop what they were doing, get a new tire and wheel, drive about 45 min. and help us replace our old tire, has just put me beside myself. What a true test of friendship. We were in need and God had someone he wanted to use on our behalf. What a blessing.

I hope you have a friend that would do that for you.

So, my praise for this story is...
I praise you God for our friend that you gave us.
I praise you that he had the cash to pay for it.
I praise you that we had the money to re-imburse him.
I praise you that it happened when it was pretty and day light outside.
I praise you that it didn't happen to Lynn when he was on his way home from work at 2am on a dark country road.
I praise you for my kids that sang songs to lightened the load.
I praise you that we made it back home safe and sound.
I praise you that the car was not messed up in any way.
I praise you Jesus for sending your angels to watch over us.
I also praise you for my readers that will hopefully be blessed from reading this story.

Now an Amazon Associate

2010-12-24T22:43:00.000-08:00

I am now an Amazon Associate." What does that mean?" You Ask. Well, when you are on my blog and you click on Amazon and you purchase something from them then, I get a cut...They pay me some money.

If you are interested in becoming an Amazon Affiliate Associate, just email me or leave a comment below. It's really easy to add to your website or to your blog.

Now, that you've heard enough from me...go get shopping!

Merry Christmas!

Lryical Letters New Products

2010-12-24T22:13:00.000-08:00

With much prayer, God has led me to an incredible source where we can carry merchandise. Lyrical Letters has just introduced a new line of products. These products are available for viewing and ordering at www.LyricalLetters.blogspot.com. or by emailing me at LyricalLetters@yahoo.com. This is only temporary as LyricalLetters.net is down for updating. (That sounds kinda weird saying it like that, ha!)

We will be carrying any product that can be personalized. That is, if you wish. Such items include: (Scroll down to view pictures)

Handbags                                Tumblers                             Coffee mugs
Sports Bottles                         Cowboy Rain boots             Houndstooth Accessories (RTR)
Auburn Accessories (other colleges as well)
Watches                                  Jewelry                                Baby items (bibs, bloomers, diaper bags)
Kids and toddlers (sippy cups and neat snacks holders, back packs)
Wedding gifts                          Car tags
Fluer De Lis accessories (You don't have to be a Saints fan to appreciate this nice stuff)
Buckets                                   Laptop bags                        Cake Carriers

Most items carry a $5.95 personalization charge. But as I mentioned earlier, personalization is an option.

Also, you can shop on my Lyrical Letters Facebook page. Click on the tab at the top "Shop Now" and it will take you to a shopping page. Just follow the drop down menus to place your order view email and PayPal.

I am so excited about offering so many more items to my customers. You all have been so great and I feel this is just a way of saying thank you for being so loyal. I love to design and decorate things for you. You make my job so much fun. Besides, who said you couldn't have boutique beauties at your manicured fingertips at discount prices? Well, shop Lyrical Letters and you will find out that you can.

Be sure to refer a friend and receive a coupon via email. Also, be sure to follow my blog or be-friend me on Facebook to hear about the latest merchandise as well as any specials or coupons.

Now for those pictures I promised you...

Monster Azaleas

2010-04-22T20:35:00.000-07:00

OK, so this post is for everyone, but mostly for my Chattanooga friends that didn't believe me when I said that the Azalea bushes in Mobile were bigger than my van. They only have the small/miniature ones there. Still very pretty.

I have enjoyed this spring more than ever. I haven't had much of an allergy problem. (Thank God) Mobile really is the prettiest city to be in during this time of year. There is so much new life and a plethora of color.

The Azaleas come in different colors, like white, pink, purple and a deep pinky reddish purple and lavender. I am not an expert by no means. Just one who loves their beauty. I hope you enjoy as much as I have.

Running Again

2010-03-20T21:32:00.000-07:00

I have started running Jan. 17th. I found this website...www.runnersworld.com. It has a page for beginners. It gives a schedule to start running. This schedule helps builds muscles as well as get your heart in running shape. It starts out like walk 2 min. run 1 min. for the first week. Then, run 2 min, walk 1 min. and so on. Check out the website for more details.

This website is awesome. It talks about running etiquite, how to tie your shoes, what shoes to buy, what to eat before and after a run. It has been very helpful to me.

What has helped me out the most was the discussions/forum. There were many who talked about how they have not lost a lot of weight but have lost a lot of inches. That was a really revelation to me. I would always get so discouraged when I excercised because I was not seeing the results quick enough and so I would give up. Running gives me those results.

With running, you loose lots of inches, gain muscle which burns fat and then you might loose some weight. For me, as of March 20th, I've lost 9 in. total and 10 lbs. and 2 dress sizes. I feel amazing. I can't wait to get up and run. If I don't get to run some mornings, I almost cry.

Running is not only changing my body, but it is teaching me about my mind. I've had to learn to push past how I feel and really engage my mind. Mind over body stuff. It really does work. It also gives me time to be alone. I can pray, think about the day, relieve stress and do something for myself. I can't gather the words right now to explain how I feel after a run. It's just amazing.

So, I encourage to try running (or really it's jogging) If you can't run, try something. Just get out there and do it. You can do it, I believe in ya!

Have I told you lately that I love ya, well I do and God does too and has awesome plans for your life.

Shoes on the wrong feet! Moving to Mobile, AL

2009-11-14T19:02:00.000-08:00

Our lives have not been normal for over 9 yrs now. We have been functional and somewhat productive on the outside. Have you ever put your shoes on the wrong feet? We've all done that. It feels funny don't it? You can feel shoes on your feet, but when you start to move in them and take a step forward, something just don' feel right. Your feet still get you somewhere. And as you walk, you know that it does not feel right, but you don't take the time to fix them. Or maybe you don't even realize that you have them on wrong. But you keep going. After a while, you began to get sores, bruises, blisters, corns and callouses. You develop a limp and start to walk funny. You might even favor a side.

There is this little 3 yr old boy in our neighborhood. Precious as can be. He loves to dress himself. I don't think I have ever seen him put his shoes on the right feet. I've even pointed it out to him and asked him if he would like for me to help him put his shoes on the right feet. But he politely says "NO" and goes about playing. It really is spectacular to watch a child in the midst of learning to care for himself. That is a time to worship our creator.

So along our journey in Chattanooga, we've discovered that we have our shoes on the wrong feet. So what do we do? We just tried on another pair. That does not work, so we tried another pair. Well, that didn't work either, so guess what? You are right, We tried on another pair. And each time we tried them on, we continued to put them on the wrong feet.

Have you ever been disgusted with something or someone and didn't let them know about it? You didn't confront them? So, you left them alone and found another friend. But then you found yourself in the same situation and did the same thing as before. You just left them alone. Before you know it, you've left 3 or 4 really good friends just flapping in the wind like some old dirty underwear.

How about a church? Have your ever tried another church because you didn't like what the preacher said on Sunday? Maybe you didn't agree with the way they handled a situation that involved you. Maybe there was a lot of gossiping and very little praying. Maybe it was filled with religion, rules, elitism and programs. That maybe a legitimate reason for leaving. But anyway, you found yourself church hopping.

We did! We church hopped (changed shoes), job hopped (changed shoes), school hopped (changed shoes) and even did some friend hopping(changed shoes again). Let me add here that there are some unhealthy friendships that you need to seek God's wisdom about. You may have to walk away from those unhealthy relationships. Back to my story. We were trying on other shoes and still putting them on the wrong foot. But you know what? I would not trade that for the world. We have learned so much about ourselves, each other and our children. God has not pulled us out of some situations so that we can be taught of him. There is no price for that.

In the end, we just took our shoes off and we didn't wear any shoes at all. Our feet got torn, bruised, blistered, cut, bumped, stepped on, dirtied, calloused and corned. We humbly came to Jesus, confessed our sins, accepted His forgiveness, gave forgiveness to each other and stood face to face with Him. God arrested my husband during a revival in September 2009. I mean seriously arrested him. He layed out in the floor for hours that week. God was cleaning him up, doctoring his sores, restoring his feet or should I say, his walk. Healing him completely. I knew what was going on and because it was an answered prayer to see my husband laying with God, it was healing to me. God put a new fire in us that week. He also brought some seeds forth that he had deposited many yeas ago.

Now, God has put a brand new pair of shoes on both our feet. And they are on the right foot. He didn't put shoes on dirtied, calloused, bruised and blistered feet. He didn't put old shoes on clean healthy feet. He didn't put the wrong shoes on the right feet or put the right shoes on the wrong feet. He has put a specially made pair of shoes for my husband's feet and a specially made pair of shoes on my feet. (Guess what? my shoes match my honey's, but fit my feet perfectly! I just love that)

What I'm trying to say is that after 7 yrs of a long slow learnin sabatical, we are joining forces with God like never before. We are moving forward stronger than we ever have before. We are returning to the ministry. God has laid Mobile, AL on our hearts. We don't know why Mobile. We wouldn't care if it was New York, Spokane, Little Rock or Las Vegas. We will go where ever He sends us. We are more that exstatic that it is my hometown. I get to be with my family again. I have missed them more than words can say and I know they feel the same way.

We have a passion for the lost. We also have a burden for a generation that is willing to stand up and take back what the enemy has stolen. We are not looking for any wimps. A generation that is ready to take their place in the Kingdom with faith and boldness. A generation that wants to be His hands and feet and get dirty doing it. A generation that will worship foolishly before their Father. A generation that is filled with the Holy Spirit. A generation that will love the Lord God with all their heart, soul, mind and strength and love their neighbor as we love ourselves so that the world will know that we belong to the one and only Jesus Christ. We are not playing games and are tired of wasting time. Jesus Christ is coming back really really soon. And he is looking for a bride that is willing to obey His word and His spoken command with out fear or question. A bride that is spotless.

So, we will be starting a new church somewhere in Mobile. More than likely in West Mobile. We need to get to the city and do some major praying to find out for certain where God wants us. A well as meet the people that God has lined up to help us. I know what you are thinking..."Another church?" "Mobile does not need another church!" I thought the same thing. But who am I to question God. When he says do something, we just do it right?

We will obey his first instruction to us and that is move. We will be moving Dec. 16th. Just in time for the holidays and just in time for the In The Midst New Year's gathering. In the meantime, please be in prayer for us. Our current prayer request and needs are finances, wisdom and devine revelation and appointments.

I hope to keep you posted in the up coming weeks. Thanks to all for all your love and prayers. I'm so excited to see what God is up to. He sure is Jehovah Sneeky!

Freebie Friday Starts Oct. 2, 2009

2009-09-30T15:17:00.000-07:00

Starting this Friday, October 2, 2009, Lyrical Letters will be giving away 1 free item. All you have to do is visit the Lyrical Letters blogspot and post a comment under the Freebie. Or Are you a Facebook person. Find me (Dee Dee Coaker Huey) and leave your comment under this week's selection. Your name will be entered for that give away. If your name is chosen, I will contact you. Check back weekly because the items will change every week. You never know what you might get.

This week's Freebie is a University of Tennessee Car Tag. Keep it for yourself or give it away.

Valued at $20.00

www.LyricalLetters.Blogspot.com

2009-09-17T20:08:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

Wanted to remind everyone about my other blog. This one is my home business. I've told you about it before. You know, the one where I make really pretty things for your home or for birthday and Christmas gifts.

My blog is somewhat under construction. I am working on making it more user friendly and organized. So bear with me.

Head on over there right now and check it out. It's www.LyricalLetters.blogspot.com

Have I told ya lately that Jesus Loves Ya?
Well, He does and so do I!

DD

Candy Favors

2009-08-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share with my great friends that love to do crafts as much as me. I found this idea on www.pinkstamper.com Robyn is so good. He blog is rated #1 right. So you need to head right over there right after this blog and check hers out. She always has free stuff to give away.

I made this candy favors for my parent's 50th wedding anniversary celebration. They were given away to the guest upon leaving. It was just a simple thank you. Here is the picture.

They are easy to make. I got all of my materials at Hobby Lobby.
1. Get help, especially when crafting with chocolate. This can be very dangerous.
2. Hersey's "nuggets" candy.
3. Clear bags. The smaller work perfect. You can find them for $2.00 at Hobby Lobby.
4. 2-3 different designed scrap book paper.
5. We used address labels that we printed with my computer and then with the printer. We printed "Thank You The Coaker Family". We wrapped these labels around the candy and placed them in the plastic bags.
6. Cut your scrapbook paper 3 1/2 x 4 1/2 and fold in half longways. Then place your paper on top.
7. I taped then stapled the plastic bags on the inside of the folded scrapbook paper.
8. Cut enough of small ribbon and tape the ends to the front inside of the scrapbook paper then glue shut. Add a small piece of ribbon to the front tying only once.
You can add something small to the front like a letter or a sticker. You be creative.

Below is a link to the you tube video that Robyn did. Have fun! I can't wait to see what you have come up with.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgAm7RP6lcE

If you have any questions, please be sure to ask in the comments section. I will try to help you as best as I can.

Have I told you lately that I love ya? Well, I do.

Be sure to visit our family company website at www.vitalstreams.net

Neighbor has Benedryl

2009-08-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

I just had to share this with you all. The other day, my youngest daughter came home in a frantic. If you know her, you will know that this is not unusual. She is very dramatic. She rushed in to tell me that the little boy (about 9) across the street ate a watermelon and his eye got swollen and now he has benedryl. I asked her if it was contagious and she said with great emphasis, "Yes". I asked her if she got benedryl too. With her hands on her hips and big bright brown eyes, she said "NO". I told her to stay away from the neighbor so that she would not get it either.

I just left it at that. It was too funny for me to tell her then that benedryl was a medicine. I really didn't have to because her older sister came in and sarcastically informated her that she was a big dummy. Everyone knows that benedryl is a medicine.

My Ancestors

2009-07-09T20:30:00.000-07:00

Recently, while I was waiting on my dad to come out of another heart cath. I was talking to my Aunt Peggy. She showed me a clipping from a newspaper that talked about the 80th anniversary of my grandmothers brother who died when he was 15. It was really interesting. He passed out on the basketball court and never regained consciousnesses. His name was Ike Prescott. So this took place some time in 1929. I had never heard this story before.

Well this just really sparked my interest even more into my really large family. I don't know much about them except what my mom as mentioned. I began drilling my aunt with many questions. She was so helpful in answering them.

This blog is more for my kids. I want a record of what I have found.

So this is what I have learned so far.

My maternal mother's name is Myrtice Stanley Coaker. Her mother was Eunice QV Prescott Stanley. (QV was really her middle name. It does not stand for anything.)Her mother was Sallie Lou Prescott. (I do not know her maiden name as of now)Sallie married John Isaac Richard Prescott. I love that name. My grandmother Eunice married John Lewis Stanley as her 2nd husband. I am still researching her first husband. I know his last name was Thompson. They had 2 sons. Wildon "Toy" Thompson and Leo Thompson.

Eunice and John Stanley had 4 girls: Johnnie Stanley Head, Peggy Jean Stanley Sumrall, Myrtice Stanley Coaker and Betty Sue Stanley Squires. (I may have some of their names wrong.)

My mother is Myrtice Stanley Coaker.

I was reading earlier that my Grandmother, Eunice, had a brother named Dothan Prescott that died Dec. 24 1956 and was buried at Evergreen Cemetary in Elba, AL. Jan. 1, 1957. My great grandmother, Sallie was buried at Evergreen as well June 6, 1957 at the ripe old age of 84. She was a widow.

I will try to post these names on the online genealogy site if I can remember the name.

Custom Vinyl Give Away Thurs. 6/18

2009-06-18T10:04:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS, SUSAN! Because you voted for Lyrical Letters and that being the name that I chose, you are are my winner. Please email me at www.LyricalLetters@yahoo.com.

Also be sure to check out my Lyrical Letters blogspot at www.LyricalLetters.blogspot.com. There will be many more give aways to come.

Love to all

SKG Date

2009-06-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

New Vinyl Business

2009-06-05T12:36:00.000-07:00

Lyrical Letters it is.

I have decided and thanks to many who have helped with your input. The winner for the free wall art is... Susan. I will talk you with you later to see what you want. Anyone can visit this site at www.lyricalletters.blogspot.com at any time. I decided to make it seperate from my personal blog. It is still in the very beginning stages. I am in the process of collecting pictures to add so that you can see for your self just what it is that we do. Just be patient with me as we get this going.

As always, I love your comments. It's what keeps me blogging. I will keep you all posted on my progress. Be sure to subscribe to Lyrical Letters. There will be more give aways.

Have I told you lately that I love ya, well I do, in Jesus Name.

Dee Dee Huey

Custom Vinyl Lettering Business

2009-06-04T13:00:00.001-07:00

Here is a link to a current website of a business that is similar to the one that I will be starting.

www.wordsanywhere.com

Let me know what you think. I will be posting pics later. I'm just beginning and therefore I am trying to get as many pics as possible.

Love to all,
Dee Dee

Starting A Small Business+ Give Away

2009-05-30T21:42:00.001-07:00

I have been praying about starting a small business for extra money for all the things the kids want to do. I have been blessed with a machine from my mom and it will do endless things. It will cut any paper, vinyl, cardstock and the like. I have bought a program so that my computer can talk to it. It will cut letters and any design. Right now I'm going crazy making sayings to put on walls. I also have the tools to do etching on glass or mirrors.

I have met some ladies online that have the same machine and they too have blogs that show their work as well as list things for sale. So I thought if they can do it, then surely I can too. Since we will not be doing much school this summer I will have more time to get something going.

So, this is where you all come in. I have a few ideas on what to name my business, which will also be the name of my website/blog. This is what I have so far:

Lyrical Letters (This is my favorite)
Del Dolche Designs (Which is Italian for Sweet Designs. I'm a sucker for anything Italian)

I really like the idea of alliteration, which is using the same letter for different words like I did with Lyrical Letters and Del Dolche Designs. Tell me what you all think and if you have any more great name ideas, please share them with me. This seems to be the hardest thing because it says who you are and it stays with you for life. If I choose your idea, then you will get free wall art from me. So spread the word and help me get started.

Love to all

New Music

2009-05-30T20:40:00.001-07:00

Well, some of you that know me well know that I really like music and movies. We listen to all kinds, some good and some not so good. We keep our minds open to all sorts, looking for new music. Well, I had heard about an independent movie (We like independent films) called "Once", so I ordered it from Netflix. It was about a man and a women that met and ended up having the same love for music. He played the guitar and she the piano. They were both very good. Lynn and I especially liked that since he plays the guitar and I the piano. (Not as well as the actors)

They both wrote music and ended up writing some together. We just loved the different sounds that they were able to put together using those 2 different instruments. We found out that his name is Glen Hansard and her is Marketa Irglova. I can't remember which country they are from, but it is not America. I don't know much more about them. I don't know if they are married to each other. I did however see them on a GMA show not too long ago. The song they played captured my heart. It was "Falling Slowly".

I have added their music to my blog for your enjoymnet. Let me know what you think!

Have I told you lately that I love ya, well, I DO! :)

Since watching the show, we have been able to find their music on www.imeem.com. (One of our favorite places to listen to live streaming music for free). I have not been able to play with Lynn yet because of him working so much, but I have managed to pick out and play my favorite song "Falling Slowly".

If you don't watch many independent films, I encourage you to do so. They are not the top quality stuff as the blockbuster movies, but they have great plots. Let me give you some caution, "Once" was rated R for language. If you have a "curser" which my kids call it, you know one of those machines or DVD players that will bleep out all the curse words for you, then you definitely need to see this movie just for the music.

2009-05-23T20:06:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since I've blogged. I can't believe how busy we have been. The kids are involved in so many activities: karate, Boys Scouts, Chattanooga Girls Choir and softball. (I'll have to tell you the story about the softball team later.)It almost seems as though we don't even have time to school most days. (Don't worry, we still manage to squeeze it in) I have really missed my blogging. There have been so many things to write about. I will have to work on getting you all caught up. For now, hope you all have a wonderful Memorial Day. Me and my family are going camping at Cloudland Canyon State Park in GA.

I know I haven't told ya lately that I love ya, well I do...

Dee Dee

Coupon Shopping

2009-02-25T13:28:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've posted. Man, I've missed it. I have a few minutes while my family is out running errands and so I thought now would be a good time.

I have been saving my family $60-$100 a week in shopping. I shop Bi-lo, CVS and Walgreens. Our Bi-lo will double coupons up to $.60. The best way to get savings is to apply the your double coupons to the sales. I got smoked sausage for $.12 a piece yesterday. I am so pumped! This is so addicting. It keeps getting better.

Here a few sites that I use to get my coupons. Of course, I go to www.bi-lo.com, www.cvs.com, www.couponmom.com. www.iheartcvs.com, www.iheartwags.com (for Walgreens), www.coupon.com for online coupons and my favorite yahoo group is "How to shop for free" The lady that started the group only spends about $60-$100 a mo. for a family of six. I'm still trying to figure that one out.

I can't wait to tell everyone I know about my deals. This is something that anyone can do with just a little time.

Hope this help everyone. Let me know if you find any more websites.

I know I haven't told you all lately that I love ya...Well, I do.
Your sista,
Dee Dee

The Team Room-Manners

2009-01-18T06:18:00.000-08:00

I have been helping our pastor's wife, Pastor Deven and our children's pastor's wife, Pastor Ashley with the young ladies Tea Room at our church. We meet once a month and we have lunch and tea after church. It is a mentorship program for girls ages 8-12. They learn what God says about beauty and modesty. They learn Bible verses and earn great rewards. They also learn table and conversation manners which I have been blessed to teach. (I love to teach.) This has been so much fun for me. I hope I get to do it again in the fall.

I thought I would share with you all my lesson from January. You just might learn something.

The Tea Room Table Manners January

"Mabel, Mabel if you're able, keep your elbows off the table!"

“Please Pass the Jelly”:
It is correct to reach for anything on the table that is close to you and does not require that you reach across your neighbor or leaning far across the table yourself. Simply ask that the person nearest it, “Would you please pass the jelly, Maryann.”
It is polite to ask the host if for an accompaniment if it is not on the table. Just don’t ask for something unusual.

The Silverware
You should always start with the silver farthest from the plate. Start outside and work your way in.

Using the Knife and Fork
The American method is you may cut with the knife in your right hand and hold food with a fork in your left and then switch fork to right hand to eat. This is “zigzag”
The European method is leaving the fork in your left hand after you have cut your meat. Therefore eating with your left hand. Either way is suitable.
A knife is a great pusher when you don’t have a piece of bread. It is held in the left hand.

Types of Foods:
Bread and butter: cut bread in small size pieces; place a small amount of butter on the edge. This can be eaten with your fingers.
Spaghetti: Use a large spoon, knife and fork. The fork is used to spear a few stands of spaghetti, the tips are placed against the bowl of the spoon, which is held in the left hand and the fork is twirled, wrapping the spaghetti around itself as it turns. If no spoon is provided, the tips of the fork may be rested against the curve of the plate.

The following foods can be eaten with fingers:
Apples Watermelons
Cherry tomatoes Raw cherries and plums
Bananas (if in peeling) Olives
Sandwiches Pizza Tacos

General tip: Never do anything unless the host/hostess does it first. Don’t know how to eat something, watch the host/hostess. “When in Rome, do as the Romans do”.

Our 14th Wedding Anniversary

2009-01-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

Well, I can't believe that we have made it another year. Time is just flying by. God has blessed us and protected us in many ways.

With all the bumps, humps, mountains, tears of sorrow and tears of joy, I am still as happy today to be Mrs. Lynn Huey, III as I was 14 years ago. It's not been easy but with God on our side, we have grown as individuals and as a couple.

As I look back over our wedding pictures, I see how happy we were. Even though our faces show some extra pounds and some time lines. The love that was started 15 years ago has not faded and burns even stronger today. I'm glad that I will (If God willing) get to experience forever with you, Lynn. You are the light of my life and my prince.

I said "I do" 14 years ago (Oct 1, 1994)and I will say "I do" again. No matter what life brings us, I will be his faithful wife. I'm excited about what God will bring to us. He is the creator of the love we share. Without him, none of this would be possible.

"My Everyday Blessing"
Every morning I wake and see, The most handsome man lying next to me. He's the one I cherish and love, A blessing sent from heaven above.I will love him as a faithful wife should, And do everything for him I could.I will let him know everyday,That I love him more than words can say,For the three children we have together... And the love for God in each other.He will keep our love going strong, And the Lord God will guide us away from all wrong.

For the man in my life, I love you more than anything...

As it was 14 years ago, so it is today...

I hold you in my heart for we have shared together God's blessings. Philippians 1:7

-Dee Dee

Who Do You Pray To?

2009-01-08T11:01:00.000-08:00

This is my first lesson on prayer. I wanted to be sure to cover the basics. This maybe elemetary to some, but just hang with me. You never know you may find a gold nugget in here somewhere.

My first question, is "Who do you pray to?" Is it buddha? He's not real. Is it Islam? Is it new age? Or maybe you don't even pray at all. Prayer is simply just talking to God. The One True God. God our Father, the Most High. You can talk, right? You don't have to use fancy words. Talk to him like you do your mother, sister, spouse or best friend. He is not waiting in heaven to strike you dead if you say or do something wrong. He is a loving father. He wishes to hold you in his lap and wrap his arms around you. He loves more than we will ever know here on earth. If you have never had an image of a loving father here on earth, then I challenge you to seek God as your heavenly father. He is waiting for you. Here is the revelation that God gave David about us...

Psalm 139:1-18
O LORD, you have searched me and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.
You hem me in—behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.
Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,"
even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!
Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you.

After David wrote the above, he closed it off with this...

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24

What an awesome prayer to pray. If you don't know anything else to pray, then pray Psalm 139:23-24.

I hope this an helped someone out. If you have any questions, or you would like for me to pray with you, then please email me. My next prayer lesson will be on the Father's Prayer. Jesus himself taught us how to pray to his father. So check back next week.

I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. Eph 1:17.

Have I told you today that I love ya? Well, I do!

My Brother and Sister

2009-01-05T21:31:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of my brother, Jayson and my sister, Pam. My brother is 23 mo. younger than me and my sister is 13 yrs older than me. She is amazing. Isn't she just beautiful. She has 3 grandchildren, 1 girl and 2 boys. I hope I look as good as she does at that age. She takes really good care of herself. My brother is one of the craziest people I've ever known. He is always full of so much fun. He has the most beautiful wife and 2 young boys. You know I've heard that every family has to have a crazy uncle, right? Well, my brother would be that one for us. Never a dull moment. You never know what he is going to do or say next.

I don't remember my sister living at home with us. I was 5 yo when she married at the age of 18. My brother was 3. She was more like a cousin. We saw each other about once a week. We really didn't have anything in common until I married. However, I did grow up with my brother right beside me. He did everything I did and as a kid, that got on my every nerve. He taught me a lot about sibling rivalry. We fought like cats and dogs and mom and dad would just let us work things out on our own. But if you dare lay a hand on my brother or look at him wrong, I was ready and willing to knock your lights out. I had had practice. Remember, the sibling rivalries?! So you could say that I grew up closer to my brother. I would do anything to have those days back. I miss him so much.

So my sister is 13 years older than me right! We have the same mom and dad. I know you are probably wondering why? Well, I'm glad you asked. My mom had 5 miscarriages between my sister and I. So, I have some more bro. and sis. waiting in heaven for me. My mom had a lot of problems with her pregnancies. When she found out that she was pregnant with me, I know she was excited to some degree. She had gone into a protective stage at the time because of the previous heart aches as you can imagine. I know that she started having some complications(my memory does not serve me well) but she had to quit her job and result to complete bed rest. Thank God for my mom's loving mother and my sister that could help around the house. I know that the enemy wanted to have his hand in on my life at this time, but God had other plans. And still does but he is defeated. (That's another whole story) So after many weeks in the bed, my mom carries me 2 wks over my due date. And that's just plan funny if you know my family...they are late for everything. I mean everything. Thank God for my husband who has taught me better. So, I was born, April 16, 1973 with absolutely no complications. I was 8 lbs. 14 oz. and 23 1/2 inches long. (If you know me now, that would explain why I'm 5'10") Well, and as far as the weight, well, we just won't go there now will we? :) God brought me forth from my mother's womb with no problems. Now what does that say in the face of the enemy?

I know this started out about my brother and sister, but it just led to some celebrations that any of us are even here. I praise God for keeping his hand of protection on all of us. I'm so thankful that I have them. I could have been the only child. Sometimes in my childhood, that would have been fine! Remember the sibling rivalry. But, I would give my life for them. They are everything to me. I miss them so much. (They live in Mobile, AL)

My mom had to do the same thing when she was pregnant with my brother. Shortly after he was born, she had to have an emergency hysterectomy. I guess her uterus had just had enough.

I could not imagine life without them. They have no idea how much they mean to me. I love them dearly. Dear God, Thank you for my earthly brother and sister. I praise you that we are all healthy. I praise you for giving them to me. I praise you Father that they call you Savior.

For you created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! Psalm 139:13-17

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog. I pray that I was a blessing to you today.

Have I told you today that I love you? Well, I do :)

Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra

2009-01-02T20:03:00.001-08:00

The kids are I went to the Chattanooga Symphone Orchestra back in the fall. So far this year, they have studied Antonio Vivaldi and Johann S. Bach. They are really loving listening to the classics. We had so much fun. None of us can wait to go to another one.

One of the pieces of music was about Peer Gynt. It was moving. The best part, was the kids recognized some of the pieces of music.

Have I told you today that I love ya? Well, I do :)

dee dee

Save your plastic bags

2009-01-02T20:00:00.001-08:00

Here is a quick tip on what to do with all those plastic bags that you get from the stores. I use a milk jug (gallon size). Cut a medium whole in the side. Then when you get those bags, just cram them in. This is a "green" way of cutting back on the plastic in the land fields. You can either take it the recycle center, you can use them in your small garbage cans or even reuse them as grocery bags. The ideas or endless. If you have any, I would love to hear your comments.

dee dee

My new black Clarke's

2009-01-02T19:54:00.000-08:00

Do you remember when I blogged about my black Clarke clogs? I was so upset that they had to go. But when I was on my church's ladies retreat in Pigeon Forge, I went to the Clarke store and found some new ones. They are much better than the ones I had before. They are so comfortable. They were $84 and I got them for $32. What a deal?! I just love Clarke shoes. I can't wait to go back and get me some more.

Love ya much,

dee dee

A new apron

2009-01-02T19:08:00.001-08:00

I have sown my very first apron. It was sew (hee hee) much fun. Here is a pic. My youngest wanted to model it for everyone.

Love to all,

dee dee

My antique Tea set

2009-01-02T18:51:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics of my Tea set. I didn't want to get all the peices out. They are all wrapped individually and it takes a while to unwrap and then re-wrap. I knew that you would understand.

I love how one of the pics really captures the blues. I wished you all could join me for a cup-a-tea.

love to all,

dee dee

Praises Challenged

2008-12-29T22:20:00.000-08:00

How many of you know that when you set out to do something, you WILL be challenged. Either by your friends, spouse, family, the enemy or even God. This is a test to see if you were for real.

I know your wondering what in the world am I getting at. Well, if you will notice the name of my blog. It's "Praises 2 Sing" or praises to sing. I did the #2 cause it was kool. Anyway, when I set out to do this blog, I wanted a title that fit me. At that time I had been going through some tough times and God was in the process of pulling us out of the pit. (Like Joseph when he was thrown into the pit by his brothers.) I vowed then, that I would forever praise my heavenly Father. That no matter what come my way, I would praise him. If he never did anything for me again, I would praise Him; especially because of what he had already done for me. Saving my soul from hell for one, restoring my marriage and giving me 3 completely healthy children, just to name a few.

I have found that it is easy to praise God when things are going good. When the sun is shining, you have money in the bank, your marriage is real peachy, the kids are doing well in school and are not sick, no one has died. Things are real quiet in your life. Well, what happens when there is no money to buy Christmas presents? No money to travel to visit family for the holidays? You have lost your job or your pay has been cut? What do you do when all your kids are sick at the same time? Or maybe your best friend has abandoned you? I have been so down in the pit financially that I couldn't find two quarters to rub together to buy toothpaste. (We used baking soda.)

We have been in the pit in many areas of our lives. What I mean by "the pit" is - the dumps, in really bad, things not going well on the inside of you or the outside.

When you make a vow to God that you will praise Him no matter what it looks like on the outside, you will find something to praise him for. You praise him for the stained shirt you have on your back. You praise him for the roof over your head. You praise him for the 13th mess that you have cleaned up today, because there are people out there that don't have children and want them so badly. You praise Him because you can breathe, you praise Him for the food that you have on the table. You praise Him for saving your soul. AND when you begin to praise him, your spirits will lift. Just like in Psalms if you begin to praise your heavenly Father, you will take off the spirit of heaviness and put on a garment of praise. When you praise your heavenly Father, things begin to fall into place. Your mind lines up with scripture. In Phil. 4:8 it says "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

In Acts, Paul and Silas began to sing praises to God while they were in prison and the chains of heaviness (shackles)was shaken from their hands and feet, the walls were torn down and they and all the other prisoners were set free. Praise frees us from our current circumstances.

I said all this to say, that I have been challenged in the past few weeks to really praise God for what I do not see. I have been praising him for the things to come, things that he has shown me and promised me. It is so easy to take our eyes off of our blessings. The enemy makes things so appealing to us. But we can not for one minute give him an inch. You know what he will do with that.

So I challenge you, now that Thanksgiving is over. Are you still praising God? If not, take the time now to do so. Ask him to give you the words to praise him with. He will do that. He has done it for me. Don't wait on "the feeling". You can not depend on them. Praise Him no matter what you feel like.

Love to all,
Dee Dee

Prayer Blogs

2008-12-29T08:38:00.000-08:00

Many of you know that my husband and I have pastored before. We are currently in between ministries at this time. So, While we are waiting on God to open a door, I have discovered that there is already a door open. It's my blog. We both have a desire to teach/preach and so I will use my blog to do so. And for me, this will be great practice.

So, My husband and I have been talking a lot about prayer. We have learned a great deal about this subject and I would like to share what we have learned. So, I am going to try to post something about prayer every week. We have been surprised at how many people really don't know a great deal about it. Stay tuned for teachings on this subject. And as always, I welcome your comments and suggestions. If there is a topic that you would like to know more about, please just let me know and I will do my best to get the info you need.

I keep praying that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. Eph 1:17

Abiding in Him,
Your friend

All I want for Christmas is...

2008-12-29T08:05:00.000-08:00

There were many things that I wanted for Christmas, but like everyone one else, there was more want and not enough money. I asked for PJ's (Which is my most favorite thing in the whole world) from several people and didn't get any. (That's a good excuse to make my own...hee hee). I also asked for Christmas socks. Didnt' get those either, but found several on sale.

The two greatest things I wanted for Christmas, I did get. (I'll post pics later) I wanted a complete Tea Set. It didn't matter how many pieces where in it. It really didn't matter what print was on it. I just wanted something really pretty. Well, my mom went way out. She got me this 24 piece antique set. It even has the ceramic spoons to match. It is the most beautiful set I've ever seen. It's the willow blue color with birds and it is trimmed in Black. Yes, I will post pics later. I can't wait to use it. She has a friend that is an expert antiquer and she had her looking for weeks. There were other things that I really needed, but this is just one of those things that you've just got to have. Forget about your needs right. My mom is the greatest. Thanks Mom.

Now the other thing that I asked for was a picnic basket. We go to a lot of homeschool functions that involve picnics. (Which I absolutely love) I don't have a picnic basket like all the others. I became very envious. (Yes, I know you're not suppose to be, I'm working on it) I had an insulated back pack which works really nice, but it was not a picnic basket. I asked my in-laws for one and really didn't know what to expect. Well, they definitely exceeded my expectations. I've never seen one like this. It has sturdy handles that velcro together at the top. It comes with over 20 pieces inside. Plates, spoons, knives, etc. And to top it off, the bottom has an insulation compartment for all your food and drinks. It's just the perfect size. I can't wait to use this bad boy. Yep, I will have a picnic in the cold just cause I can. And better yet, I can't wait to show it off. Thanks Ed and Sharon for an awesome gift.(I will post a pic later)

Love to all,
Abiding in Him,

Favorite Time of Year

2008-12-04T21:47:00.000-08:00

I just love Christmas. It's my most favorite time of year. "WHY", you ask! I'm glad you did. It's a time to be with family and friends that you hold dear. "Time" with me is my love language. If you spend time with me, then I know that you love me. It fills my love tank. But most of all, it's the celebration of our dear Savior's birth. Without Him, life would not be worth living. I really hate what the world has done with commercializing this season. I have to fight hard to not get sucked in. I really like to go to parties. I try to make it to every one. It's making memories that is important to me also. No one will stop me from saying "Merry Christmas". I refuse to be politically correct. My husband has been getting some slack from his work. He has a manager that reminds him to say "Happy Holidays" but he refuses. He is willing to loose his job! I'm proud of him.

Read Luke 2 for the story of Jesus birth.

Merry Christmas

"Thankful For"...Good words

2008-11-25T09:37:00.001-08:00

I just love words. Good words. I love to read. (If it's decent and moral) I'm still praying that my children will catch the same spirit. I thought I would post this poem that my children had to do for their copy work this week. I hope you all enjoy it as well...

"We Thank Thee"
We thank thee for mother-love and father care,
For brothers strong and sisters fair,
For love at home and here each day,
For guidance lest we go astray,
Father in heaven, we thank thee.
For this morning with it's light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food,
For love and friends,
For everything his goodness sends,
father in heaven, we thank thee.

author unknown.

That about sums up what I'm thankful for. How about you?

"Thankful For"... A lot of things!

2008-11-22T19:46:00.000-08:00

OK, so you might have noticed that I haven't posted in over a week. It's not that I'm not thankful, it's that I've been really busy. I'm sure you can relate. So, I will make this quick and just post a list. So here are just a few...

1. My BFF Miranda! Isn't she just amazing. My best cheerleader.

2. My sister. She knows me so well. Especially when it comes to what I want. She just gets it. Like my giraffe purse. Thanks, Sissy.

3. Cool Whip. I know that's funny. But we put cool whip in almost everything...coffee, hot chocolate, chocolate milk, yogurt. The little things are everything.

4. I'm thankful that my parents are still married. I know it's not been easy. They will be married 50 years next year. If they can do it, so can I.

5. I'm thankful that God made a way for me to go on a church women's retreat. I didn't come back the same person. It was awesome. Thanks honey, for being willing to take care of the kids while I was away.

6. Sour Cream...Like cool whip, we put sour cream on everything too. Baked potatos, burritos, soups, tortillas. We've always got some in the house.

7. My new pair of black Clark shoes. I will have to post a picture later. They're are better than my old ones. I got them in Pigeon Forge.

8. My sewing machine. I've been learning for about a year now. I don't think I'm getting any better though. I really need classes.

9. My church. I couldn't find where I had posted this before. I thought I did. We have been looking for 4 yrs for a church. It's not perfect, but it's where God wants us. We are so excited about what He is doing there.

10. I'm thankful for my faith being restored. I had lost it there for a little while. He has given me so many things to praise him for. Faith being one of the first. Thank you my faith giver.

I hope you all have had as much fun as me posting all that you are thankful for. It really makes you stop and think. It's also biblical. We are to put on a garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. When you're feeling down, just praise Him for the things you have and the things you don't have.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE! May His thankfulness forever be in your hearts!

I keep praying that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. Eph 1:17

"Thankful For"... Women's Retreat

2008-11-13T18:07:00.000-08:00

A few months ago when we first started visiting the church we now attend, they were taking names of those that wanted to go on the women's retreat in Pigeon Forge. Well, of course I wanted to go but didn't know if we would still be going to this church and I didn't know a soul. But after attending the church for 2 months, we knew that we would join. So I started asking God to make a way for me to go on this retreat. I've never been on a women's retreat with a church before. I've have dreamt of going and imagined how it would be. I'm so excited. It will be a time of praise, worship and refreshing. I can't wait to see what God has in store. There are so many women praying for this weekend. I can't believe I'm going to have a weekend with no kids or hubby. I will be so glad to get back to them after 2 1/2 days. So, if you guys think about me this weekend, know that I am having a blast with my new church friends. Of course, when I get back, I will be so pumped and will be sure to let everyone know how it went. TTFN

"Thankful For"... Music

2008-11-13T18:02:00.000-08:00

I am so glad that we have music. I love to listen to music of all kinds. I just took my kids to hear the Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra Tues. We heard the "Legends" one about Peer Gynt and the other was Firebird. What amazing songs. Of course they loved it and wanted to know when we could go back. They can't help but love music. Afterall, they are Huey's right. (That's an inside family joke. They Huey's all love music, most of us play something) I go to sleep listening to some kind of music every night, usually praise and worship. I wished I had more time to play my piano. I have thought about what I would do after my kids graduated, I will probably go back to school for piano performance. (Just dreaming)

"Thankful For"...Family

2008-11-13T17:53:00.000-08:00

I just couldn't leave out my family. I don't have them near me and so it has made me even more thankful for them. However, Lynn's parents and sister are here, so that does make things a lot easier. When we need a family fix, they are always there to the rescue. My family lives in Mobile/Saraland. I have 1 sister who is in her late 40's (She would kill me if I told her age) and 1 brother who is 2 years younger than me. Of course they have kids. Actually my sister is a grandmother x 3. My parents are doing well. We almost lost my dad 1 1/2 yrs ago. We are a blessed group of people. I only get to see them about 2x a year. It's amazing how time flies when you're gone. It's hard when I hear of things they are doing without me. They have always been there for me. I know that they always will. I will not get to be with them Thanksgiving, but Christmas is just around the corner. We usually go the weekend before. Thank you Jesus for my crazy disfunctional family that loves you very much.

"Thankful For"...Freedom to Homeschool

2008-11-10T13:38:00.000-08:00

I LOVE HOMESCHOOL!! I never thought that I would say that. But God has done a number in my heart. A complete change. I have gone from not being able to wait til my kids went to school so they could get out of my hair; to me actually loving to be with them. Those who've known me since childhood can't attest to that fact that I didn't like kids. I have seen my kids grow and mature in ways that I could never imagine. To see them play with kids and be able to encourage others to act right and fair has been a huge blessing. God called us to do this and he has really blessed our obedience.(This is our 4th year) I love the fact that I get to customize their education. All 3 of them are so different and learn in different ways. Plus, I get the education that I didn't get as a child. I remind myself daily that my worst day has got to better than a public/private school good day. I thank God for helping me think outside the box. He has lead and guided me every step of the way, just like he said that he will do. I depend on him more than ever, now. He has provided every need that we've had, in homeschool or else where. I thank God for the lessons that we learn from each other. I mess up and I can go to my kids and let them know. They forgive and we keep trucking on. They have made me better in ways they will probably never know. Because of my love for them, I am driven to be a better person and mom.

Most of all I thank God for the freedom that I have right now to homeschool. I pray that God will protect that. The new president elect is against parents choosing which school their child attends ...public or private. But if worse comes to worse and my kids have to go to a public school, I know that it will not be the end of the world and as least they have gotten a good foundation in Jesus Christ in their homeschool. Thank you Jesus that your miracles never cease. You really knew what you were doing when you asked me to homeschool the children that you have blessed me with.

If you ever have any questions about homeschooling, I would love to asnwer them and help you get started.

"Thankful For"...Sundays

2008-11-09T19:54:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful for Sundays. As a child we went to church everytime the door was open. After Sunday morning worship we would come home to the biggest Sunday dinner. (You would think it was Thanksgiving). THEN...we would take a long Sunday nap. I'm so glad my mama trained me right, hee hee!! (I was joking about the naps, but serious about the church thing) To this day, I still go to church and come home and take a nap. But Sundays mean so much more to me now. I appreciate them now as a day to get together with my brothers and sisters in Christ. To worship our heavenly Father together and experience the power of the Holy Spirit. It's a time to bring what God has done in our lives that week and share it with one another. There is nothing more refreshing and renewing than to be with other believers. I really like that fact that there is one day set aside just for my Savior. If you do not have a home church, I encourage to find one. Ask you heavenly father to lead you to one. He will. He has done so for us. We have been seeking his will for 4 years now and just found where he wanted us. It was a hard and trying road, (That's another really long story) but we made it. Thank God we did. We were not put on this earth to be alone. We need each other. We need to worship corporately. God loves to see his sons and daughters worship him together. Don't worry about what anybody thinks, just go for HIM!!

I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. Eph 1:17.

"Thankful For"... Alabama Football

2008-11-06T20:21:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful for college football. There is nothing like it on this earth. Especially the SEC. Even more, I am thankful that Alabama is finally having their turn in the spot light. In case you didn't know. The Tide has done it again. They won 27-21 in over time against LSU. It has been the best game I've ever seen all year. RRROOOOLLLLL TIDE RRROOOLLLLL all the way to the SEC Championship. Les Miles is not going as far this year. (Hee hee, I made that one up myself. We've been saying that all day)

Much love

"Thankful For"...My Old Washer and Dryer

2008-11-06T20:05:00.001-08:00

I am so thankful for my washer and dryer. They are both refurbished. They are extra special to me because when we moved from Bethel Bible Village in Chattanooga to Kentucky to help a friend start a church we didn't have any. So the church gave us money to buy some but not enough to purchase new; so we found this older gentleman in the paper that bought broken washers and dryers and refurbished them. They are not the newest or the prettiest but they get the job done. We have had them now for 6 yrs and have not had anything go wrong with them at all. Now watch, after posting this blog, something will happen to one of them. I hope not.

Happy washing :)

"Thankful For"...My Children

2008-11-06T16:55:00.000-08:00

Me, Em, Cherry and Dill Pickle

Sunset Rock on Lookout Mtn, TN. 11/04/2008

I am so thankful that God has chosen me to be the mom of these three wonderful children. It has not been easy. I have my ups and downs as mom and homeschool parent. I think God puts you in uneasy positions so that you will go to him for help. And yes, that works with me. They keep me on my knees and they are not even teenagers yet. (I keep praying that Jesus will come back before they become teenagers. It just might happen)

Dill Pickle is 200% boy, if that's possible. He's my wiggle willie. I think he might even be ADD. Not sure. I know he is always distracted and is distracting. He challenges me to become better at everything I do. My toughest job with him is to keep him challenged. He is so darn smart. He loves to figure things out on his own. And his comprehension in just impeckable. Give him something to play with while I read a story and he just about can tell it back word for word. He remembers things I don't. He is involved with our local homeschool boyscouts as a 2nd yr webelos. He is on his way to getting his black belt in Ishyru karate and is the video/sound engineer for the children's ministry at our church. You can tell he just loves life.

My Em, is passionate about anything girlie. She is a princess at heart. She's my perfect paula. She wants to own her own salon one day and design clothes. I have to go to her for clothing ideas. She knows what's in. She loves to be with her friends. She will come up with a reason to have a party. Have you seen my blog about our High School Musical Slumber Party. If not, check it out below. She definitely has the gift of helps and loves to give things to people. I wished she could stay so cute, sweet and innocent forever. I just love this age.

My Cherry is my social susy. She is so much like both her sister and brother. Itsn't that weird. She loves girlie stuff but boy she can get dirty and hang out with the bugs and boys. You should see the boys in the neighborhood. They follow her around. She has them wrapped around her finger. They're usually after a bug or lizard she has in her hands. I also call her my sticky fingers. She always has a way of finding things and moving things around. If we've ever lost something, we can go to her room and find it there. She has a wild imagination, is very strong willed almost as bad as her brother. She LOVES her daddy. I'm so glad I had her close to her sister. They are really close and do everything together. I pray that they will always have that closeness.

My children are special in their own little way. I don't know what I would do without them. I would not have a reason to get up in the morning if it was not for them. They have changed my life and I would do anything for them. I know God will use them for his kingdom. I'm blessed everyday by them and their close relationship with their dad. Thank you Jesus for my family. You have blessed us with 3 very healthy children.

"Thankful for..." The Love of My Life

2008-11-06T06:25:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful for my husband, Lynn. He is better than a bra...hee hee! I had to add that. He will get a huge laugh out of it. OK, what I mean is, he is my greatest support, the love of my life, my best friend. He's my all. He's our family priest, protector and provider. If it was not for his words of encouragement, I could not be the wife, mom, friend or homeschool parent that I am today. I thank God for him everyday. No matter what he is going through at that time in his own life, he is always there to lend an ear, a shoulder or a word of advice. He is so patient with me. I know that he was made specifically by God for me. He

completes me. We are so the opposite, where I'm focused, serious, organized, scheduled, he is the footloose fancy free light hearted always laughing kind of guy. You never know if he is serious because he is always playing around and goofing off. He was recently in nursing school but because of a test grade that was less than 80, he was removed from the program. He still holds a 3.7 GPA and finished those 2 nursing classes with B's. I am so proud of him. They don't know what they are missing. He could not make me any happier. We are not making any decisions right now. We are just waiting on God. We both know that we have unfinished business to attend in God's kingdom. So, God has closed a door and we are waiting on him to open another one. It doesn't matter what Lynn does, where he goes, who he becomes, he is a child of God and belongs to Him. With that, I know that he will never be mislead, misguided or fall where Grace does not exist. It is most comforting to know that. No one would ever know that we went through a 9 mo. seperation and was almost divorced 4 1/2 years ago. God did a miracle in our marriage and healed us both. Our marriage has never been the same since, and frankly I don't want it to be. I would go through that hell again for what we have today. Now, don't get me wrong, we are not perfect in any stretch of the imagination. God is still working in us.

Since he has been out of school, he has been able to help me teach the kids in their school. Wow, what a great help he has been. It has been a blessing to see him interact with his kids once again. I know these are days that they will never forget. I have already began to see a greater bond and a different dynamic in our family since he is more involved and can be the priest and teacher God has called him to be. I love him more than words can say. I'm so glad that we have a chance of forever with each other. Please pray for us as God leads. We are so excited about what is about to happen in our lives. We don't know just yet. And that's exciting too.

"Our" song is Everyday by Rascal Flatts. Lynn plays the guitar and I the piano and we sat down one day and picked this out together. We love to play it. So as you read this blog, you will be enjoying "our" song as well.

Thank you babe for being my rock and standing by me no matter what. I love you more than chocolate, money or music.

This is a picture of us Tues. 11/04/08 at Sunset Rock on Lookout Mtn. We went on a family hike.

"Thankful For"...the right to vote!

2008-11-04T18:44:00.000-08:00

OK, I had to pick that one for today. I mean, how many times do you really get to vote in your life time. I'm thankful for all the women that have made the way for us to vote. We can't forget those who endured beatings, being spat upon, ridicule, slander, death and who knows what else. I couldn't help but stand in line at the poll today and think about them. I hope you all got out and voted and I hope you candidate wins. In the mean time, we need to pray for our president elect. He has a big mess to clean up.

Happy voting Day!!!

House Keeping Tip

2008-11-03T13:37:00.000-08:00

OK, here's a short house keeping tip. Notice I said House KEEPING. I can't remember where I learned this from. But anyway... You should throw away at least 10 things a day. This helps to cut down on clutter. Me, I have no problem throwing things away. My children go through so much paper it ain't funny. If it's old worn out underwear, that thing in your fridge that used to be meatloaf, a broken toy, (Shh don't tell your kids). Whatever it might be. Throw it away. You will be amazed at how things begin to collect if you don't stay on top of it. Hope this helps. Happy house keeping :)

Snaggle Tooth

2008-10-31T14:31:00.000-07:00

Em and Cherry

This is one of my most favorite things about kids. Here are my girls, both missing a tooth in the front. I couldn't help but share this with my friends and family. I know that you all will get a kick out of this picture.

Em has lost 4 across the front and is now getting her "big" ones in. Cherry just lost her first one and is about to loose the second. I often tell them that "This is the only time in their life that they can have missing teeth and be soo darn cute so they better enjoy it"! Hope you all enjoy!!

These Shoes Aren't Made for Walking

2008-10-31T13:54:00.000-07:00

Well Ladies, it's time to say goodbye to my most favorite shoe in the whole wide world. I'm sure there are some of you who've been there and done that. As you see the pics of these shoes, you will know why. As many of you may know me, I'm not big on material things. I'm blessed and make the best of what I have. But these shoes are my most favorite thing. I have had them for so long I don't remember when or where I got them. I mostly wear them from fall to late spring. (They made my feet sweat too bad in the summer) They were the most comfortable shoes I have put on, until I found Chacos. I have walked hundreds of miles in these shoes. I looked forward to wearing them every year. They were my everyday shoe. They would go great with almost anything.

However, Sunday afternoon on our way in to church, I felt a pop. To my dismay, my shoe just busted. I didn't know what else to do. It really wasn't that noticable, so I just continued to wear them the rest of the night. After getting home and inspecting, I noticed that my right shoe as well had a split across the center. Neither shoe can be repaired. Well, you think, "No big deal, just get another pair". It's not that simple. I've gone through many shoes and had to throw them away but I just couldn't do that with this pair. We've gone through too much together. I still have been wearing them around the house. (I can't believe I just said that)

So, I came up with the idea to take pictures and blog about my loss. Whoa and behold, I feel much better. (That and I figured you all would get a kick out of it, No pun intended) I think I can get rid of them. I guess this is my way of saying goodbye. I've had my pitty party, now it's time to move on. I am now on a hunt for some more black clogs made by Clarke. Thanks for helping me say goodbye.

HSM3 Slumber Party

2008-10-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

My middle child, Em has been wanting to see High School Musical 3 since we heard that they were going to have one. I promised her that I would take her opening night. (My kids get to choose one movie a year to see on opening night) Em and Cherry'swas HSM3. She came up with the idea to have a slumber party after the show. She wanted to invite some of her HSM friends to see the movie with her. Well, her dad and I agreed that we would let her do that but she could only invite 3 friends. (Movie tickets are not cheap you know) So after the movie, her friends came home with us. They were up til 3:00am. We had snacks and decaffienated drinks (I don't think that helped). They sang and danced most of the night away. Of course, to fall asleep, I let them watch the other HSM movies. They were quite so I went upstairs to bed. Well, when my hubby came in from work at 1:30 am, they were still awake. He went to bed and heard them a few minutes later. He stumbled down stairs and sat in a chair waiting for them to go to sleep. Sure enough, they did. But boy, my kids were sooooo tired the next day.

We will never forget that night. We definitely made a memory. Which is a big saying around my family. When we are doing something special, we always whisper to each other "We're making memories".

I hope you all get a chance to see it. It was good but not one of my favorites. I liked HSM I better.

Moses Sanctuary

2008-10-27T10:31:00.000-07:00

Friday, October 24, 2008, we visited a life-size replica of Moses Sanctuary. This included the Courtyard, the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place. Also, there were life-size replicas of the furniture. It was a 75 minute tour. The young lady explained to us each step that the Israelites made and the role of all the priest including the High Priest. She thoroughly explained why the furniture was on certain sides of the sanctuary and what the different colors meant. It was the best presentation I had ever seen. She gave scripture reference and then tied Christ' Crucifixion symbolically to every thing in Moses Sanctuary. I thought I knew what there was to know about the Ark of the covenant and everything there in. But was I wrong. I walked away from there feeling as though I had been in God's presence.

The tour was completely free. I was surprised to see Hamilton County school buses parked in the parking lot when we arrived. I was so glad that they got not just a history lesson that day, but they were shared the gospel as well. I know that a seed was planted in their lives that day.

As for my kids, they really enjoyed it as well. They made several comments about how it was so neat to see things that we had read about in the Bible. You don't see much of that these days. I was also surprised at how much my kids remembered some of the things that she talked about. She asked my kids a lot of questions (They were the only kids on the tour). We were some really proud parents that day.

God has really blessed this company "Messiah's Mansion". It was by His acts that got this to Chattanooga. It was no easy task. It takes over 700 man hours to set up and tear down. They travel all over America sharing the gospel. Look for it your hometown. You must see it.

Blogging Ideas

2008-10-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

Okay....My best friend in the whole wide world has encouraged me to try to blog everyday. I told her I didn't think that I would have anything to say everyday. But since that comment, I have come up with so many things to talk about it ain't funny. I am working on a few right now. So some of the ideas that I have come up with are things like recipes, things we are teaching our kids, struggles that we and our children are going thru(You never know who might be going thru the same thing and could use your words of wisdom) things that God is teaching us or showing us. You know whatever comes your way. Maybe even Christmas gift ideas, where to find coupons and maybe even create a coupon swap (I would be glad to mail you what I have collected that I don't need), we could share prayer request and of course those things that our Savior deserves the glory for. So what do you say? I would love to have as many people as possible. I would really like for this to grow. We could learn so much from each other. So please leave your comments on the matter. I would love to hear your ideas.

TTFN (Ta Ta for Now)

Dylen's Puppet-"UPS Man"

2008-10-20T19:21:00.000-07:00

So this is the UPS Man. It's Dylen's stick puppet made from a plastic spoon. He has a mohawk from a small black feather boa. He has arms and legs from pipe cleaners. Dylen spray painted a shoe box for his truck and then constructed a wheel out of pipe cleaners as well. He is almost finished earning his Arrow of Light badge. Once he does that he will officially be a Boy Scout. In the boy scouts, you are not a boy scout until you are about 11. You have to go thru cubs, bears, tigers, something else and then 2 years of Webelos. Which is what he is in now, his second year. For the past month he has been studying puppets and how they are made. We went to a puppet show. The most professional I have ever seen. It was really good. Chattanooga is so full of the arts. Then the guys had to contruct their puppet by hand and write a puppet play. They rehearsed it tonight. They will perform it next week in front of the entire pack. Which will be all the boys in our homeschool troop 3280. It's about 60 boys. The compiled several stories with puppets from the 3 goats, with the incredible hulk, Jack and the bean stalk, Elmo, a UPS man, gingerbread man and others I can not remember. I will keep you all posted on how well their show went. I will include an updated picture as well.

Get acorns and throw them in our yard.

2008-10-19T05:23:00.000-07:00

Last Monday, I had taken my son to boy scouts on the other side of town. My girls had to go with me since their dad was at work. The meeting was at a different church than usual. Behind the church was a small playground, ball field and lots of oak trees. Well, on the ground under the oak trees where more acorns that I have ever seen in my life. Which really says a lot if you knew how many oak trees I grow up living under. At least 15 in our small yard. So acorns was not a new thing to me. What was so eye catching was how many were on the ground. There were millions. Really! I've never seen so many on the ground before. As I stood there and watched the girls play. I began an acorn fight like we used to do as kids. I just kept talking to the girls about how many acorns were on the ground. I was really astounded to say the least.

Well on Tuesday we were working at our church's pumpkin patch selling pumpkins. I took my Farmer's Almanac, which I love to read. (Corney I know) But in the almanac it said that if you have a lot of acorns on the ground then you will have a big snow that winter. Weeeellllll, I just about freaked. I screamed for Madison and told her what I had read and she said that we needed to go back to the church and get some acorns and throw them in our yard. I about fell out of my seat. See, we don't have any trees in our yard. So of course, we don't have acorns. And like any child, she wants to have a big snow. I just explained to her that we would get a big snow in our yard even if we didn't have acorns in our yard, that the almanac meant that for the whole city/area. And I continued to tell her that there were a lot of acorns on the ground every where in Chattanooga. So far, the almanac has been right on everything that I have tested. This will be another big test.

I still LOL everytime I think about that comment. I knew that ya'll would enjoy that story as well. So, we will see about the big snow. Forecasters have been saying that Chattanooga is way past due on a big snow. I just hope that we will be ready when it does come. I plan on emailing our favorite weather man and asking him about the Farmer's almanac's predictions. And of course, you all will know if we get any snow, period.

I would love to hear your comments so that I can share them with my Madison.

Be blessed, in Jesus name.

My Dear Husband - Daddy Hue Baby

2008-09-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

This is my dear hubby Lynn. A few years ago he felt the Lord pulling him toward the nursing field. After much time in prayer, he has chosen to follow and is now in nursing school. It was a tough decision for him as he is the main provider. God has been more than good to us. We have never gone without. You will never see the righteous forsaken and begging for bread. Anything that we have ever needed has always been provided with extra left over. God's promises have been right with us. He said he would give back to us pressed down shaken together and running over. We are still hanging on to those promises. When we have a need, we just ask our Heavenly Father and he provides.

I am so proud of Lynn for being obedient. He has worked hard and still to this day holds a 3.7 GPA. It has been God that has helped and sustained him. Even here in this picture, he looks very tired but he always has the energy to keep pushing. So for those who think that they are too old to go back to school, don't believe that lie any more. If my husband can do it at 38 with a wife, 3 kids and a job, then you can too.

So if you know my husband, will you please send him words of encouragement. We all need those every once in a while. He would love to hear from you.

I will keep you posted on his progress. I already have some really funny stories to share. His projected graduation date is May 2010. It will be here before we know it.

Love to all,

A Mother Prayer

2008-09-05T19:06:00.000-07:00

This was in a homeschool news letter and I wanted to share it with all my mommy friends. Be blessed.

Dear Lord, it's such a hectic day,
With little time to stop and pray,
For life's been anything but calm
Since You called me to be a mom.

Running errands, matching socks,
Building dreams with wooden blocks,
Cooking, cleaning, finding shoes
And other stuff that children lose,

Fitting lids on bottled bugs,
Wiping tears and giving hugs,
A stack of last week's mail to read
So where's the quiet time I need?

Yet, when I steal a moment, Lord,
Just at the sink or ironing board,
To ask the blessings of Your grace,
I see then, in my small one's face,

That you have blessed me all the while
And I stoop to kiss that precious smile.
-Author Unknown

Update on New Church

2008-08-28T12:56:00.000-07:00

I wrote earlier about Lynn and I looking for a new church. We have been visiting Mountain Meadows Church of God in Ooltewah, TN. It's not far from where we live. We have been going there now 4 weeks.

The first Sunday, the pastor was out of town at the Church of God General Assembly in TX, so there was a guest speaker. We have never seen or heard him before. He gave a message that just pierced both our hearts. We cried almost through the whole message. At the end he gave us a word of encouragement from our Heavenly Father.

We went back the next two weeks and the same thing happened. Except it was with the Sr. Pastor. We have never seen or heard of him either. He knew nothing of us and so we knew that it was God. The Holy Spirit really ministered to us and has healed and delivered us from many past hurts all in about 3 weeks. That is a huge miracle in our lives. We were just about to call it quits on God. He heard our cry and answered our plea. Our lives have been turned around for him, again.

His love, grace and mercy never changes. I thank you Father for the valley. I thank you for the mountain top. I thank you for friends and family that have been praying for us and most of all, our divine intecessor, Jesus Christ himself.

Psalm 40:1-
1 I waited patiently for the LORD;he turned to me and heard my cry.
2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,out of the mud and mire;he set my feet on a rockand gave me a firm place to stand.
3 He put a new song in my mouth,a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.
4 Blessed is the manwho makes the LORD his trust,who does not look to the proud,to those who turn aside to false gods.
5 Many, O LORD my God,are the wonders you have done.The things you planned for us no one can recount to you;were I to speak and tell of them,they would be too many to declare.
10 I do not hide your righteousness in my heart;I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly.
16 But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, “The LORD be exalted!”

I don’t want to conceal His love and His truth and I hope you won’t either. Let’s share with others about His greatness. Let’s exalt Him for who He is and the wonders He is doing in and around us.

Praise the Lord

2008-08-28T12:26:00.000-07:00

I have been reading in Psalms lately. It has really pulled me from the pit. I would like to share one of the passages that has stood out to me the most...

Psalm 113

1 Praise the Lord

Praise, O servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord.

2 Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore.

3 From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.

4 The Lord is exalted over all the nations, his glory above the heavens.

5 Who is like the Lord our God, the One who sits enthroned on high

6 who stoops down to look on the heavens and the earth?

7 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap;

8 He seats them with princes, with the princes of their people.

9 He settles the barren woman in her home as a happy mother of children.

Praise the Lord.

I really like the theme of Psalms. It shows the true human nature through David's life. He was so real. He had problems just like you and me. He made mistakes just like you and I. But yet, God called him "A man after God's own heart". David went through more problems and torture than me or your will ever encounter in our days here on earth. David praised God no matter what. It doesn't matter what the world says, no matter what our bank account reads, no matter what our friends or family members say, no matter what the doctors say. David praised God and in doing so, it lifted his spirits. He understood that there were things going on the Spirit that were not seen in the natural. Praising God changes things in the Spirit world way before you see them in the natural world we live in. Praising God changes your situation, changes your attitude toward yourself and what you think other people think about you. With my experience is it really frees me up and kinda gives me this attitude of "I don't care, because my God is in control." That is freeing.

I encourage you to praise your Heavenly Father, exalt him over the nations. His word promises you that he will raise the poor from the dust and lift the needs from the ashes and sit them with the princes. I don't know about you, but I want to be raised from the dust and ashes and seated with the princes. (Whatever that may look like, I don't care) Praise Him until something happens and then praise him some more...

Consumed by HIM

Preparing for 5k

2008-08-13T12:25:00.000-07:00

OK, so my husband and I have been talking about making goals that outlast just loosing weight. What happens after you loose the weight. What will be your next goal? So we have entertained the thought of running/walking in fun runs/walks or marathons. Well I'm tired of just the talk so I have decided to do it. So now, starting off I am training for a 5k that will be Mon. Sept 1, Labor Day. I probably will not be ready for the run, so I will walk. I have to start somewhere, right? Hopefully by the next 5k (Sept. 28, I will be running) I am on a schedule to be running in 10 weeks.

If you live in Chattanooga, I would love for you to join me. Think about it and let me know. Let's do this together. If not, just give me your words of encouragement. I will be sure to keep you all in touch with how my training is going.

Here is a local site for races...www.chattanoogatrackclub.org
and how to start running your first 5k at http://www.active.com/running/Articles/How_to_Run_Your_First_5K.htm

Proud of Dylen

2008-08-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

OK, now that I got the serious blogs out of the way for now, now's time for some good news. I wanted to blow Dylen's whistle and let everyone know how proud I am of him. He has been working really hard doing his chores and school work the past few weeks. He has finally realized that good choices births great rewards. He is earning points from Handipoints.com. Earning points gets him rewards like prizes or money. Right now, he is saving his money for a new skate board. His broke last week. I'm glad that I have stuck with Handipoints. It's now working great for Dylen. And of course, it's beginning to work well for the girls.

For a reward system for your kids go to www.handipoints.com

Recant: Looking for new church

2008-08-10T19:31:00.000-07:00

As I was re-reading the blog about looking for a new church, I thought "boy, what was I thinking. I need to get rid of that." But then I thought again. I was frustrated? Yes. Upset? Yes. Beaten down? Yes. But it's a fact of life. I've dealt with it and now I'm over it. I never do like anyone to be fake. So, I'm not going to be. I am a real person with thoughts, feelings, ideas, dreams, challenges and hurdles just like the rest of the world. I certainly don't want to appear as though I have it all together. Here is your memo, I DON'T HAVE IT ALL TOGETHER. I am just as impatient, unorganized, quick tempered, judgement as everyone else. I know that I am a sinner. I totally depend on God for every step that I take. So, I am not going to apologize for what I have said. But I will make myself a little more clear. I surely didn't mean to put any one or anyone's church down when I called some churches, patty cake or mansy pansy. I was simply referring to the churches that don't realize their potential. They just go thru the motions, the programs and just pat you on the back and just say, "Well bless your heart" or don't say anything to you at all. My husband and I are called to much more than that. We have experienced God's healing miracles, His power and His love very deeply and strongly. We are looking for where he wants us. I feel like a puzzle piece that is just waiting for it's turn to be moved.

While you are reading this and you feel compelled to pray, please pray for us. Stop right now and pray. Don't tell your self that you will pray tonight when you go to sleep. Pray now! We certainly would really appreciate it. I truely love my friends. God has given me a deep passion for people. (That's a totally different blog) I also would like your comments and words of encouragement. We are here for each other.

Lord, I pray that as those eyes read this blog that they will see You thru me. I ask that they would hear you inspite of what I am trying to say. I ask that you send your love thru the words they read and that you will join us together as your body. You are our greatest encourager. Encourage us now, Lord, I pray. Forgive us our sins and help us to turn from our wicked ways so that You will heal our land. I thank you God that you have plans for us to prosper and you don't have any plans to harm us. You love us and knew us before we were even born. You are a great God and I love you and thank you for the people you have placed in my life at this time. Bless them and give them the desires of their heart, in Jesus Christ holy name, Amen.

Looking for new church

2008-08-04T20:34:00.000-07:00

We are currently seeking God about where he wants us to attend church. We have been in a whirl wind for about 4 years now. We are tired of the enemy robbing us. We know God's calling is irrevocable. We have been blessed with gifts and want to use them for his glory. We are tired of the patty cake, mansy pansy church crap. We are in a valley and know that God is pulling us out. At the same time, I know that He is writing our testimony. We are being tested. We are getting better, not bitter. Lately we both hear God say "full circle". We've just been asking him exactly what does that mean. "Call unto me and I will show you great and mighty things that you do not know". Jeremiah 33:3

It's been hard to pray, the only thing I can say lately is "God Help". Does he really hear my prayer (I ask myself) There's that spirit of doubt. Why can't I feel him or hear him anymore? How long will this go on? Man, I hate being in the fire! But the gold sure does look good when it comes out. (Thanks for listening as I process my thoughts)

He is the potter and I am just the clay. The soft ooshy gooshy clay.
Thank you Jesus for dieing for my sins!

Homeschool Intro

2008-08-04T20:01:00.000-07:00

We are beginning our 4th year of homeschooling. As I look back over the years, I can't believe that I am sitting in this seat. I ran from homeschooling ever since our oldest(son) was 3. My husband talked to me about homeschooling but I told him I couldn't do it. I could not wait to get my kids in school and get back to my career in the business world. The world in which I thought I belonged. We put Dylen in the public school system here in Chattanooga. He had problems right off the bat. He finished K5 and then off to a really rough start with 1st. His teacher was unbelievable. I could not believe some of the things that were coming out of her mouth to me and to my son. He was always in trouble, said he was bored, didn't want to add any more because he already knew how to do it. After consulting several Phd's, M.D.'s and counselors, all said that there was nothing physical wrong with Dylen, just intelligent. I asked his pediatrician what was I going to do, He said "Finish first grade by the skin of your teeth standing on your head." It was now March and I knew he was correct. After the summer was over and time to register for the new school year, we met his teacher. I went home and cried the rest of the afternoon. I went to the school the next day and un-registered him and his sister. I knew then that I had to try homeschool. I had tried it my way and now it was time to try God's. I told God that he had 2 years and He needed to show up and help me with this. I reminded him that His Will would not lead me where His Grace can not keep me. He has taught me so much about my kids. He is the one teaching them, not me, I'm just the conductor.

Well after just 2 years, I began to really enjoy my kids. I loved to teach them. I found myself happy. I still struggle like all homeschool moms do. Am I teaching them enough? Are they learning the right thing? Will I ever get to do anything by myself? When will dad get home so I can leave? I have found so much joy in just being obedient. I learned so much about myself the first year. I think I learned more than the kids did. God is still teaching me. I'm not perfect by no means. I have just learned to trust Him no matter what comes my way. God really knows what he is doing. He is our heavenly Father and he really does love us more than anything or anybody ever could.

Thank you my Jesus, for loving me and giving me the Faith that I need to please you. Everyday is another faith walk with you. You are such a BIG GOD!