O Holy Night!

Last night someone sang "O Holy Night" at my church. Just the title alone can get you thinking. Imagine what that night must have been like! The Holy Child was born, in a barn and laid in a manger. And that same Child came to Earth for the sole purpose of saving us sinners! Wow! Can you imagine? I know I can't. What was it like for Mary, to hold the Son of God in her arms? She held a sinless child. How heavenly that must have been:0) She held Him, rocked Him, sang to Him and nursed Him! I cannot begin to imagine how unworthy she felt while doing this. I am so thankful that God was able to find a woman with whom he could entrust this mighty deed with. Mary must have worshiped God with a pure heart and she must have been kind. I know as a Christian, I need to strive to be more like Mary. If the Christ Child would have been born today, could God have looked upon my heart and said "there is a young lady with whom I could trust the life of My Child with"? I know the answer and it makes me want to try harder to be a better Christian. What is your heart like today? If you are a lady, could God have used you to bring His Child into the world? In the Bible it is written, "Be ye holy for I am holy". That's a lot for me to think about. As Christmas approaches, let's not forget the reason we have Christmas. It's all about Jesus! I hope you have a very, merry CHRISTmas!

Feliz Navidad!

It's December! I love this season. It's the time of year when most people remember the Saviour's birth. I was at Sea World the yesterday and they were playing "Silent Night". So even worldly places acknowledge the true meaning of CHRISTmas! It's so wonderful to know that God sent His only begotten Son to Earth to save us sinners. God is so wonderful! I hope this month is going well for you and that you have a very, merry, CHRISTmas! (I said that just in case I don't get back to my blog any time soon). God bless!

Hello!

Ok, so I have this blog, but I don't get around to updating it too often. But, here I am, signing in and saying hello! I keep a busy schedule, but nothing too exciting goes on for me to report. I will say our church just had a huge outreach and praise the Lord, 27 people got saved! Three people got baptized too! God is so wonderful! I love my church. But more importantly, I love my God! He is so amazing and He is so good to me, even though I am not worthy of Him! It never ceases to amaze me that God would send His only Son to die for me. What a wonderful Saviour! I love the Lord!

Soul Warning!

For the past two weeks our church has been having a huge outreach. We do this a couple times a year. We go out to the surrounding neighborhood and invite people to church. But more important than that is showing people how they can have a home in Heaven. God is so wonderful, He sent His only son to die for our sins so that we can live with Him! Isn't that just wonderful?! So many people think that just being good, or worshiping false idols will get them to Heaven. But the Bible makes it clear that Jesus is the ONLY way! In John 14:6 it says "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth and the life. No man cometh unto the Father but by me." That verse says it all! I am so glad I attend a church where we warn souls about Hell. No one has to go there. Won't you trust Jesus today?

Me and Justin on a hay ride

My sweet nephews, Justin (8) and Erik (1).

I took my nephews to the pumpkin patch last Saturday. It was fun. Even Erik enjoyed himself. I have a picture of him (not posted) on the swing and he has a smile on his precious face. God is so good to give us family. I love my boys (Christopher is my oldest nephew (16), but he wasn't with us during this time). Have a wonderful week!

Autumn!

I love Autumn! It's such a nice time of year. The weather is cooler, people decorate with pretty colors and the wind gently blows the leaves off of the trees. Someone once said (about trees losing their leaves) that only God can make death beautiful. That is so true. The leaves change to beautiful colors, but in reality they are dying. As a Christian, when we lose someone we love, we can rest assured that death is a beautiful thing. That person goes from mortal flesh to immortal soul and that is marvelous! That God should love a soul like mine, how can it be? This Monday, we will hold a memorial service for my dear friend, Mrs. Wade. Her family all made it out here for the service. It will be a time of joy and laughter and also a time for tears and heartache as we remember her. I know that she is in Heaven enjoying it's splendor. She is not sad. She is not in pain. She is full of peace and she is full of the love of God! To know that even as I write this, she is standing before her Saviour, brings me great happiness. I will always miss her. She was a blessing to me in my life, but she is right where God wants her.

In Loving Memory

A dear friend went Home to Heaven on Friday night, September 25th. Mary Wade was a wonderful lady who lived life to the fullest. I am deeply saddened by her loss and I grieve with and for her family left behind. She leaves behind her husband, Jeff, daughters Jennifer, Ruth and Sarah and grandchildren, Eric, Ashley, Jackson, Matthew, Benjamin, Marley and Maryanne. Also many friends and relatives who will miss her dearly. Mrs. Wade loved the Lord and was a wonderful prayer warrior. She had a southern accent that could make you smile. Heaven is a better place now that she's there. In loving memory of Mary Wade, a southern lady, who loved the Lord! RIP my friend!

Mrs. Wade

A very dear friend of mine is very ill. In fact, she is so ill, she isn't expected to make it through tonight. She is on life support. The family plans on taking her off of the life support once her oldest daughter arrives. Mrs. Wade is a very dear lady and will be sorely missed! I lived with her and her husband for 5 yrs. In those years I gained many fond (mostly funny) memories. The things that stick in my head are numerous. But I am going to name a special few.
1)I was upstairs in my room. The Wade's and their daughter were downstairs. Suddenly I hear some shreaking. I run downstairs only to see Mrs. Wade and her daughter, Ruth, up on the couch and Bro. Wade was running around the living room with a poker from the fireplace. Apparently a rat had entered the house. So funny! (The rat got away).
2)One day, I was downstairs talking with the Wade's. Mrs. Wade got all serious and says "Karen, come here". I walk over to her and without warning, she reached out and pulled me into a hug. She laughs and says "It just looked like you needed a hug and I knew you wouldn't just let me give you one". (I'm not a big fan of hugging, although that has changed some through the years).
3)I remember taking Mrs. Wade with me on the Single's Ministry Christmas cruise. She went as my "mom" since parents were invited.
4)I remember all the times she would tell me she was praying for me. I'd see her list and she had specific things on there that I had asked her to pray about. (Even a few things I didn't ask for).
5)Mrs. Wade had been in a car accident right in front of our house. While she was still in the hospital, I noticed in a dish by the sink, that she had put all her jewelry there. When she got home that night (with a broken right arm and sprained left arm), I asked "How your jewelry get home before you?" She answered "I ran in and put soap on my fingers and got them off before the ambulance arrived. I knew my arms were broken and I didn't want those doctors cutting my rings off!" Only Mrs. Wade would think of something like that:0)
I will stop with that for now. Right now, as I post this, her family is saying goodbye to her. I loved her dearly and will miss her so very much. She was a godly lady who loved to pray for you. May God's peace be with her family during this trying time.

Pray for our President!

I just heard on the News about a "Baptist" "Preacher" in Arizona who preached a message titled, "Why I hate Barrack Obama". He mentioned how he'd like to see the President die somehow, preferrably by brain cancer. How sick is that?!?! I have met this so called preacher before, and he only preached his opinion. He does not preach the Gospel. I did not want to attend his "church" (aka cult) that night (in December 2008) but I had promised one of my friends young daughter that I would go. So, I only went to fulfill my promise. This "preacher" does not like my Pastor or any other well respected man of God that I know, so he treated me kindly at 1st, but when he heard who my Pastor is, he turned his back and walked away from me and did not speak to me the rest of the night. Not very mature. Anyway, there's a bunch of hoopla in the news about this man and I started thinking about how wrong he is. I don't like Obama myself, but I would NEVER wish death on him. Especially because Obama is not saved. He needs salvation. I think it's horrible that any person would wish someone would go to Hell. I am guilty of not praying like I should for this President. I was thinking on some Scriptures after hearing what that man said and I thought, we need to PRAY! 1 Timothy 2:1-4 says "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." God wants us to pray for our leaders, he isn't willing that any should perish. If Obama was to get saved, that could lead to revival in America! Oh, how wonderful it would be to see revival. But, revival begins with us Christians. We need to PRAY, PRAY, PRAY! Also in Romans 13:1-2 says "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power, but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation." The Bible makes it very clear that we are to be subject to our authorities. The "powers that be are ordained of God". God allowed Obama to be the President. We may not understand why, but He knows why. So, my hope, is that through all of this, we will be more aware and pray more for the President of the United States of America. We still are, at least for now, the greatest nation! God bless America!

God's goodness!

View from the airplane.Tree lined streets in Texas.

God is sooooo good! I am so happy! Three weeks ago, my mother got saved! What a blessing to me and what a huge relief! I have been praying for her salvation for about 18 years! I'm still praying for the salvation of the rest of my family, but I am just so overjoyed that my mother is now also my "sister" in Christ! I had a nice trip to Texas to visit with my friend. We went to a rose garden, swimming in a lake, to an aligator park, the zoo and of course, church. It was humid, but otherwise, nice weather. I'm glad to be back in San Diego though. It's 77 degrees today and there's a nice breeze! No need for A.C. or anything. I am so blessed! Truly, I am. So are you if you're saved. We serve a God Who answers prayers and still works miracles! Thank you so much, Lord, for all You have done for me!

Texas

Well, I finally decided to update my blog. Tomorrow is my last full day of work before and 2 week vacation!! Woohoo! I am going to Texas to visit my friend. It's been a year since I've been on an airplane, so I am excited to get back on one. I love airports and I love flying. It's interesting to watch people. I am also hoping to visit another friend who moved to Dallas, although I will only get to have dinner with her. I will spend a week in Texas then I will come home and spend the rest of the week enjoying some time at home. God is sooo good to give me so many blessings, undeserving, that's what I am. Thank you Lord for so much love and joy! I love you Lord! Trust Jesus, He's the best!

25 years!

On Sunday and Monday, our church celebrated our Pastor's 25th anniversary as a Pastor. For 25 years, my Pastor has been faithfully serving at our church. I am so thankful for a Pastor who has a walk with God. A man who is not afraid to preach the truth, with all honesty and love. My Pastor is not afraid to take the Bible and preach the truth within, yet he does it with love and without judgement. My Pastor is fair, honest, kind and a good leader. Who could ask for anything more? I am not mentioning his name because I'd like to keep my personal life personal. I just want to say, thank God for this man of God and his sweet wife. They serve together and they are both so genuine. Those of you reading this from my church, know who this is, but please, do not mention names, for my safety and privacy. I don't know who reads these blogs and would rather not give them access to me. If you have a great Pastor, don't hesitate to thank him. God is so good.

Busy, busy, busy

I have been so busy lately! Since I got back from my vacation, I have been running around everywhere! I guess I can say I hit the ground running:0) I am still amazed at God's grace. He has blessed me beyond measure. Right now He is answering a prayer that I have been praying about for many, many years. Although it is a 2 step process, He has answered the 1st step!!! I am in awe of Him! I love the Lord, He is so faithful and me so unworthy. I love the Lord, He heard my cry, He lifted me way up high, set my feet upon soild Rock! Just think of it, the Lord and King, the Creator of everything, loves me with a love that won't stop!

Montana!

I am in Montana right now and it is soooooo beautiful!!! I love it up here and I am enjoying every moment of it. I come up almost every year for the Big Sky Bible Conference. It is so great and there are so many great preachers that come up for this. And of course, where Baptist's meet, Baptist's eat! So, the food here is great as well and it's nice to reconnect with friends from the past and it's also nice to meet new friends. This morning was awesome with three great messages from three great men of God! God is so amazing and I look forward to the rest of the week!

My brother is home!

My brother, Kelley, is finally home after spending nearly a month in a Las Vegas hospital recovering from a broken back. He got injured in a boating accident over Memorial Day weekend and has been 300+ miles away since. He's home now though!

Stressed

I have had the craziest past 2 weeks. It's been awhile since I've been worn out or "bone weary" as I've heard it called. Since my brother was injured in a boating accident, I have been trying to take care of Claire (my sis-in-law) and her 2 young boys (my adorable nephews). I also feel like I have been invited to a million things and I am TIRED! This past weekend wasn't a break, I feel like it was more work. I actually looked forward to going to work so I could have a break. I was so busy running around with my sis-in-law and my friend (after the dog kept me awake until 2:30 a.m. Sat. morning) and then I went to church, worked nursery, bus class and military ministry, then I went to a graduation party for a kid I was a nanny to years ago and that was all the way in Mission Hills. Then, I went home for 30 minutes before heading back to church! I went to bed early last night but woke up still feeling tired this morning. So, I think I have to try and get to bed early again tonight. I am going to a ladies Bible study, but it shouldn't be too long. Tomorrow I plan on going to spend time with my sis-in-law, Wed. is Spanish church, Thurs. is English church and Friday is another Bible study. When will it ever end??? I guess I should be thankful that I lead a very busy and very full life. I leave in 17 days for a one week, much needed, vacation! Montana, here I come!!!

Stubborn?

Today as I was trying to convince Caroline (age 3) to stay in her bed and take a nap, I began wondering if we are as annoying in God's eyes. Okay, maybe annoying isn't the right word, but maybe I should call it stubborn. EVERY DAY I put Caroline to bed for a nap and EVERY DAY she decides she can do what she wants. EVERY DAY I have to go down to her room, yell at her and then lecture her on why she needs to stay in bed. But, Caroline is stubborn and gets up anyway. She loses priveledges, but I guess the joy of doing her own thing outweighs the consequences. Yet, as adults. we tend to do the same thing with God. He gives us instructions, but we are stubborn and think we need to do it our way. God chastises us, we whine and then we disobey again. Eventually He gives someone else the blessing or we get a good "spanking" from Him. I can honestly say, I have learned more about my relationship with God by watching my relationship with children, more than any other thing ever taught me. We are God's children (if you are born again) and He is our Father Who guides and directs us. If only we would do what He asked, then life would be grand! I am going to try harder to listen to His voice and do what He asks when He asks the 1st time. I won't master it, but I'm going to try. I want to be a good child of God.

My brother.

On Thursday, May 21st, my brother, Kelley, broke his back in a boating accident. He is doing okay now and is just trying to live with the pain. He had surgery on Friday, the 22nd, and they put titanium rods in his back. They have fitted him for a back brace and are hoping to get him walking today. The doctors think he may be able to go home tomorrow or Thursday. He will stay with my parents for a short time, then drive back to San Diego to reunite with his wife and sons. I spent Memorial Day weekend up in Bullhead City, Arizona with my parents and I made the short trip to Las Vegas to visit my brother in the hospital. I arrived safely back in San Diego last night with my sister in law and 2 of my nephews. All is going well and I am so happy to be back in normal 70 degree weather. It was 104 degrees in Arizona! Yuck! God is so good and He hears our prayers. I am so thankful for all my friends who are willing to pray when I ask them to. I hope I can always return the favor. Proverbs 3:5-6

Thankful for the man of God!

I just have to say that I am so thankful to the Lord for allowing me to attend an awesome church where the Pastor is full of wisdom and walks with the Lord. I love my Pastor and as I see some others, it makes me more and more thankful for him. My Pastor is not afraid to preach about seperation (from the world) and he preaches with authority and love at the same time. I have 2 friends who have been having a hard time with their Pastors. One left the church and my other friend is still praying about what to do about it. These friends live in two different states (from me and each other), so you don't know who I am talking about. But as I listen to their complaints, I am reminded that I have a godly Pastor who knows the Book and uses it a lot during his preaching. So, thank you Lord, for my Pastor and my church. Thank you for allowing me to live where I live. God is so amazing, and me, so unworthy. I love the Lord!

Hi; Hola

Hi folks!
I know I haven't been writing in this blog all too much, but here I am once again. I have been busy. These next 3 weekends will be busy too. I'll be up in Santa Barbara,CA this weekend, then I have to take photos next weekend then I'll be in Arizona again the weekend after that. Busy, busy, busy. The weather here has been great. Today it is 77 degrees with a cool breeze. It's perfect. I am hoping to go out soul winning with the Spanish ministry tonight. They are having "Dia del Amigo" next Sunday and we are trying to invite as many Spanish speaking people as possible. So far, God has been blessing them. Not only are people signing up to come, but people are getting saved! God is sooooo awesome! "Jesus le dijo, yo soy el camino, y la verdad, y la vida, nadie, viene al Padre, sino por mi". Juan 14:6

The birds are singing:0)

Well, today is another beautiful day! I am so glad I live in San Diego (sometimes). I do long for the country though. There is nothing quite like sitting on a front porch in the middle of nowhere on a summer evening and listening to the crickets sing. There is a bird feeder on the balcony where I work and the birds have been going crazy eating all the seeds. I love it though because they sing and chirp. Mostly sparrows come to it. It makes me think of the song that says "His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He's watching me". Yesterday, my Aunt passed away. It was unexpected. So, today, I am thankful for another day. I am sad that she passed so suddenly and I wish I had gotten to know her better. But, when someone you care about dies, it sure makes you grateful for another day of life. God is so good to us!

In loving memory of my Aunt, Ruth Kathleen Bonner
March 1947-May 2009

The countdown...

Well, it's the end of April. Two more months before I leave for a week long trip to Dillon, Montana. I look forward to the beautiful state, great preaching and meeting up with friends I haven't seen since last year. It's always a great time at the camp meeting up there. Not to mention good food! I don't really have much to put down here right now. I will say, my nephew is getting his mickey button put in tomorrow (it's replacing the g-tube). So, no more bulky feeding tube 24/7! Now we can feed him every 4 hours like a normal baby (except through the tube and not with a bottle). God is so good. I have been thinking a lot lately about how far Erik has come since he was born. I was looking at his newborn pictures and videos and it's amazing how tiny he was. I praise the Lord and thank Him for allowing Erik to live. Most babies that size don't make it. God protected him though and for that I am thankful. Many people prayed for Erik and now we see the result. Well, that's all for now.

Heat Wave!

Ok. So, it's HOT here in San Diego. Yesterday it was 101 degrees and today it is 99 degrees. I have complained about it like everyone else. But, you know what? It's hotter in hell. People are going to hell as we speak. Hell is never satisfied. Scary! I am so glad that I am going to Heaven. God is so good. He took a lump of clay, formed man and breathed life into him and man became a living soul. Then He came to Earth and died for that same man (lump of clay). People reject Christ everyday! It's so sad. They are bound for hell where they will never find relief. At least I can use an air conditioner or get a drink of ice cold water. And so, with that thought, I will end this note with this, it may be 100 degrees and it may seem horrible, but it sure beats living in hell. If you are reading this and you are not saved, then please, won't you trust Jesus as your personal Saviour?! He is the ONLY way! "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth and the life. No man cometh unto the Father but by me." John 14:6

Another day.

Well, today has been perfect. I often imagine that the weather in Heaven will be similar to the weather in San Diego. As I feel the cool breeze on my face, I think "Heaven is the only thing better than this!". I look forward to the Spring weather staying here. It makes me feel cheerful. God is so good to us! He loves us no matter what we do. He is always there. "I will never leave thee nor forsake thee" that is His promise to us. What an awesome God I serve!

Arizona again.

The family having Easter dinner.
Justin coloring eggs.

Justin being crazy.

Erik smiling:0)

Erik in a size 3 month outfit.

For Easter weekend my brother and his family and I all went to Arizona to visit the folks. We went to Nevada to do the Riverwalk and the rest of the time we hung out at my parents house in Arizona. Justin behaved for once and Erik did well too. Erik even showed us some smiles. He is growing for sure. The Lord is so good. I am so glad He arose!

God is good.

Well, not much to say other than, God is good! Maybe that's all that needs to be said. I am keeping busy. I am leaving bright and early (4 a.m.) tomorrow morning to head to Arizona to spend Easter weekend with my parents. I spent today with Jackson and Caroline doing lots of fun stuff. The weather has been a little chilly, but not too bad. Erik is gaining weight finally and was able to wear a size 3 month outfit for the 1st time ever. Hopefully Erik is on his way to recovery. God is always good!

Another beautiful day!

Well, I woke up this morning, got ready for work and headed out the door. When I went outside, I was so happy that the day was just gorgeous!! There was a slight breeze and it was already 60 degrees! Woo-hoo! I tell you what, going outside on a clear, beautiful day, is like an instant pick-me-up. My heart filled with gratitude to God as I thanked Him for giving me such a pretty day to enjoy. Sometimes we get so busy running through life, we forget to stop and praise God for the simple things. I don't want to become one of those people who only thank God for the big things. God is everywhere, all the time. I am not perfect at this, but I do try more often than not, to stop and think of how good God is. I feel like I just went through a stressful time with my precious, 13 month old nephew spending 12 days at Children's Hospital having major surgery, plus another situation that I can't mention. But, through it all, God is there. Always. When I would start to worry about Erik's future, God would gently remind me that He has it all under control. God has a purpose for Erik in life. He may or may not reach great goals, but he has already taught me a few lessons. One big one being, be thankful for your health. I'm glad Erik is doing better and was able to go home on Saturday. He is gaining weight and healing. Precious little man. Anyway, I am rambling on. I am just so thankful for ALL of God's wonderful blessings, I guess it just turned into rambling. Be sure to hug your child if you have one, and be thankful if he/she is healthy. Have a wonderful day! God is ALWAY'S good!
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy path". I love this verse!

Jessie

So, last night I went to Spanish church as usual, and I came home a cat owner. A teen from Spanish church was trying to give this 6 wk. old kitten to another family. The other family didn't want it. I was afraid she'd end up in a shelter, so I took her, hoping that Tami would fall in love with her and adopt her. Before I moved in, I mentioned that I'd love to have a cat, and Tami remembered that and said I could keep her. Well, I said I wanted a cat, but I really didn't have the time, so I didn't plan on adopting one. Looks like I have no choice. Tami doesn't want the kitten and I can't bring myself to take her to a shelter. So, I named her Jessie and I went out and bought her the basics (food, toys etc...). Today I put the stuff out for her, showed her where her litter box is and then left. So, if my room is still in one piece when I get home tonight, and if she didn't poo on my carpet/furniture, then I guess she can stay. If there is any mess though, she's gone. I need to take her to the vet for her shots and make sure she's healthy. And I know cats don't like baths, but I think I need to bath her. She smells like wet cat food. So, this is my new kitty, Jessie. We'll see how this goes:0)

National Atheist's Awareness Day

"The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God." Proverbs 14:1 a
Today is April Fools Day and I have a keychain that dubs it "National Atheist's Awareness Day".
I think that's a good name for April FOOLS day. I don't really understand how anyone can look around at this amazing world and think it just happened by chance. To believe nothing exsisted, then suddenly something did exsist and then another thing came into exsistence and they came together and BANG! an earth was created. Uh, yeah, I don't think so. The people who believe the big bang theory claim they are smart. However, what they believe makes no sense and there is absolutely no evidence to support their theory. Scientists cannot even make dirt. Life comes from GOD. There is just no other way for it to exsist. "All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made." John 1:3. We need to reach this lost and dying world. Our church is doing a 2 week outreach. We are going out each night and telling others how they can be saved. We need to pray for a revival before all these foolish atheists claim control. When I was in high school, evolution was taught as a fact, and that was many years ago. I can only imagine what they are indoctrinating our kids with today. Anyway, my thoughts for today are that I need to be a better soulwinner. "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth and the life. No man cometh unto the Father but by me." John 14:6.

My sweet, buddy, Erik

So little Erik is undergoing his surgery as I write this. The surgeon decided that Erik needs a valve in his esophogus too, so it lengthened the surgery and they expect it to take 2 1/2 - 3 hours. So, it should be over soon. I am praying for his safety and that God guides the surgeons hands and that soon Erik will be well enough to go home and start growing and developing. He will now get the much needed nutrients he has been lacking. I just hope he doesn't have to spend his whole life in pain. He is so precious to me and I know he is even more precious in God's eyes. Seeing him in this condition makes me want to cry. The one good thing though, is, at least we are figuring out everything that is wrong and getting it fixed so he can feel better. I am also very thankful that he won't remember this part of his life. He will only know what we tell him and he will see these pictures. God is so good and I thank Him for giving us Erik. Considering Erik's small start (1 lb. 3 oz. and 12 inches at birth), I am just amazed he's here. Most of this stuff is typical preemie problems. I do hope and pray that they can correct themselves. So, for now, my thoughts are on Erik. Please continue to pray for him. Thank you.

JOY

Tonight the preaching was on having a heart full of joy. I needed that! I am glad I am keeping this blog, like I said in a previous entry, I might need to look back and remember how good God is. I didn't think I'd go through a valley so quickly after writing that! But, with my precious, 12 month old nephew in the hospital, undergoing a battery of tests with negative outcomes, I must admit, I have been worried to the point where I cry if I think about it too much. Finding out that Erik will probably never lead a "normal" life has been hard. As his Aunty, I only want the best for him. I love him so much. I adore having 3 nephews, they are all so special in their own way. Erik is such a huge miracle though! I know I can trust God through all of this and I know Erik has a purpose in life. God makes no mistakes and although it is hard to accept all of this, I know God is in control and He will see us through and He will take care of Erik. Erik needs meds for his seizures, he needs a feeding tube and tomorrow they are testing his hearing and vision. Hopefully soon, he will get to come home. My little sweetie:0) I just love that baby! I am still remembering to be thankful though. I am thankful for salvation. I am thankful that Erik is alive. I am thankful for a great church and friends that care. I am thankful!!!

Erik update

I just got off the phone with my brother and they have gotten a result back from one of the tests. Erik does have a seizure disorder (I don't know what kind) that can result in mental retardation. They are hoping that the medication they give him will work and help him to grow normally. Please pray that they find the right meds so Erik isn't brain damaged. It is sad news for us to hear. I love this baby no matter what, but I'd love for him to be able to learn to walk and talk. He is so special to me and I just adore him. At 1:15 this afternoon (3-25-09) They are going to do the suck and swallow test to see if the food goes to his lungs. I hope he passes this test, because if he doesn't, they'll have to put a "button" in his stomach to feed him formula. They are also going to do an MRI today to see what's going on in his brain. Hopefully there isn't too much brain damage. I know he's intelligent right now because he recognizes his family, he smiles and coos and he also has an opinion when you do something he doesn't like. Last night when the doctor was trying to measure him, he fought her. When the nurse started messing with his IV he fought her. When I was aked to help hold his arm still so she could change the shunt, he was calm and peaceful, which, of course, made me very proud. I know he know's who I am. He didn't fight the nurse or cry because he had his Aunty. Once, he did start to fuss, but then I just kissed his chubby cheeks and he relaxed right away. If Erik does need a "button" in his tummy, then they will be doing a surgery today. PLEASE PRAY!! I know most of you don't know Erik, but you know me and I am begging you to pray! "The effectual, fervant prayer of a righteous man availeth MUCH".

Erik

Sweetie Pie!
He was so cute. I took him out of his carseat and he gave me these big smiles.

My nephew, Erik, is back in the hospital. The pictures above were taken last night just about an hour before they had to take him to the hospital. I took him out of his carseat and he was just so happy, he gave me a huge smile. He kept smiling so I grabbed my cell phone. Of course, he kept moving, so these pictures are sort of blurry, but you get the point. Anyway, Erik has lost some weight and the doctors are concerned. He was already small to begin with, only 9 lbs. 6 oz. at a year old, but he dropped down to 8 lbs. 12 oz. The doctor wants to run a battery of tests to see what could be causing his weight loss. Also, he has what appears to be small seizures. So, he'll probably be seen by a neurologist. So, please pray for my little buddy. I already know he's a fighter, but as his Aunty, I hate seeing him be in the hospital. I just want him healthy. Maybe they can figure out what's wrong so he can start growing and maybe even start learning to crawl and eventually walk. Thank you for your time. Please pray.

Blessings!

God is soooo good to me! I love Him more and more each day. Just this morning my heart was full of love for Him. I just moved on Feb. 28th and the room that I got is similar to a small studio apt. So, I have my bed in it along with a dresser and a table and chairs set. My mom gave me a recliner, and that was a huge blessing because it was free. Well, last night, my friend who helped me move called to tell me that there was a brand new futon sitting at his workplace that they were going to throw away and he wondered if I'd like to have it. I told him sure and this morning he and his friend dropped it off before I left for work. It is a nice futon, it is off-white and I think the material is suede, or something similar. It is very comfy and it will also make a nice extra bed if someone wants to stay the night. It was cool because after he put it in my room, he smiled and said "Now you have a couch". What a blessing! I have a place to offer someone a seat and it's comfortable. Then, after I got to work I had to go to the bank. When I got there, I realized my drivers liscence was expired, and it expired on my b-day 16 days ago!! Bummer! I thought "Oh no, now I have to go sit at the DMV for hours!" When I got to the DMV, there was only a small crowd and my # was called within 10 minutes of my arrival. When I left the DMV, the line was out the door! Again, God is so good. I was in and out of the DMV within 20 minutes. That in and of itself is a miracle! Anyway, I just wanted to brag on God. He is so wonderful and I am so thankful to serve the risen Saviour. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

Cookies inside and out.

Today I made some choc. chip cookies from scratch. I had Caroline (age 2 yrs. 11 mos.) helping me. I was telling her "this is called cookie dough, they will be cookies after their finished baking". Well, Caroline couldn't quite see how the lump of dough could possibly become cookies. I said "all the ingredients are in there that makes it a cookie, they just have to bake" and all of the sudden something clicked in my head. I wish all the people of the world would view unborn babies in a similar way. They say "oh, they're not human yet", but that's the farthest thing from the truth! They are human. All the genetic make-up is in them that makes them human, they just have to finish developing. In fact, they look very human by only 3 months along. It irritates me so much that people justify the murder of all these innocent babies. Everyday 1,000's of babies are murdered in America and that is WRONG! Look to the margin in my blog here and you will see how many babies were murdered just since you opened the page. It is very alarming! Oh, how I wish it was illegal. I know it wouldn't stop it altogether, but it would lessen it. So, that was my lesson learned today while making cookies from scratch. On a positive note, today was another beautiful day! Perfect temps and clear skies. Enjoy life, God never promises you another day. Remember to tell loved ones that you love them. And don't forget to tell the Creator that you love Him!

Another beautiful day!

Today I took Caroline to Sea World. The weather was perfect at 71 degrees and the sun was shining. There was a cool breeze at Sea World too and the flowers planted all over the place were fragrant and made the air smell so sweet. It just fills my heart with joy and gratitude towards my Saviour when I have days like this. There is a song that says "God is so wonderful, I can't explain, I want to SHOUT and sing, glory, hallelujah, praise His holy name!" I'm so happy the Lord has put a song in my heart. If you are having a rough day, just look for something positive about your life and "think on these things".

Arizona

Me with Justin and Erik in Oatman, AZ.

My cute nephews.

For some reason the pictures get put out of the order I put them in, so pardon the fact that these are backwards.

Anyway, I took a trip with my SIL, Claire, and my 2 youngest nephews, Justin and Erik, to Bullhead City, Arizona to visit my parents and see their new house they just bought. We had a short, but nice visit. Arrived at 1 a.m. Sat. morning and left at 1 p.m. Sunday afternoon. On Saturday, we went to Oatman, Arizona to visit an old town. It has been 20 yrs. since I last went there and it was just as cool as I remember it. Donkey's roam around town and the wild west is emphasized there. We also went to a few stores in the later afternoon. We then went to Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday morning before heading for home. Trinity Baptist was a nice church and I am glad I have a church to visit when I am in Bullhead City. That's all for now.

God, the Artist!

Although the above picture was taken in Wyoming in 2007, I thought I'd add a picture just for effect. Anyway, my thought today is about how beautiful the world can actually be. Sometimes when I am just driving along the freeway here in San Diego during Spring, I see flowers EVERYWHERE! I love Spring. It's a time of rebirth. I was just thanking God today as I drove along, for putting the yellow and orange flowers all over so I can enjoy their spectacular color and beauty. God is so thoughtful to share His handiwork with us. I have traveled to many different places and they all hold some type of beauty. I love to travel in Montana and Wyoming, as you can imagine, both of those states have so many pretty places to visit. The picture above is of Red Canyon, just outside of Riverton, WY. I took it on my way back to SD after visiting some friends. I love the Lord and sometimes I just sit back and thank Him for all the beauty that surrounds us. It's easy to just rush through life and not admire the simple things.

"Thou are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created." Revelations 4:11

In the news...

I have been having some awesome days the past couple of weeks and I am thankful for that. But today, in the news (I usually don't read or watch the news for this reason), I heard about a man in Alabama that gunned down his family, his neighbors and some innocent bystanders. In all, 10 people lost their life including an 18 mos. old girl and a 15 yr. old boy. A 4 mos. old was also shot, but is recovering. (Her big sister and mother were killed). Then, new headlines came out that a 17 yr. old in Germany shot and killed 15 people at random at the high school he used to attend. All of those lives lost in such a brief time and for what??? Someone's selfish motives? As the world slowly pushes God out, evil is becoming more prevalent. We as Christians have got to take a stand. I am just as guilty as the next guy for not taking a stand. I do not go soul winning enough and I don't witness to people in my everyday life. I needed to read todays articles, perhaps, to become more aware. Christ is the only answer for this sin-sick world. In John 14:6 it says "Jesus saith unto him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life, no man cometh unto the Father but by me'". My prayer is that I'll stop being lazy and start going soul winning more often. With that said, I will say, God is still on the throne and I am still sooooo thankful to be serving the true God. Praise the Lord for yet another day to serve Him! Have a great day everyone and be thankful for your family and friends.

March 10th

Today is such a beautiful day in San Diego. It is sunny and breezy. I took Caroline to the story time at the library and then to In-N-Out for a burger. I then took her to a park to play in the sunshine. God is so wonderful, isn't He? He just continues to bless me. I am so unworthy. I live with a great family, I go to an awesome church, I have wonderful friends and the perfect, true, holy, God as my Saviour!! What more could I ask for? (The answer is nothing for those who don't get it). Sometimes I stand amazed! One of my favorite Scriptures is Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths". Sometimes trusting God is the easiest thing to do, and yet at other times, it's the toughest thing to do. I hope that this blog is a blessing to someone out there. I hope it is a blessing to me in the future when I go through trials. I can hopefully look back at days like this when I see how much God has blessed me. Trust God!

Disneyland!

For my birthday, Lindsey and Jocelyn Wiggins took me to Disneyland. (Of course it's free on your birthday). They bought me lunch while we were there too. It was a lot of fun and although it drizzled off and on throughout the day, it was a good day. The lines were short (5-20 minutes), and it wasn't overly crowded. I had a great birthday!

Thoughts for today.

This is my 1st entry in my new blog. I have a blogspot for my nephew Erik, and I will continue to update it. But, I wanted a blog for my own personal use where I can post pictures of things I have done or where I can post my thoughts. I want Erik's blogspot to remain only about Erik. Recently a friend of mine went through a situation at her church. Someone posted a comment on Erik's blogspot telling me that my friends 12 yr. old child is a "lunatic" and that I should delete her ability to follow Erik's blog. So, my 1st thought is, "Why on earth would an adult attack a 12 yr. old child in such a way?" The answer is "I don't know". All I can say is, I don't know enough about the situation to pass judgement, nor does anyone else who was not there. Nor was I asked to give my opinion. I truly believe that being a friend during this trying time is the best thing to be. I do hope to call them soon, but not before praying hard. I want them to know I care, but I do not wish to be tied in with that whole mess. So please, if you read Erik's blog and you see a 12 yr. old that follows it and you go to her blog, please do not think that her opinion reflects mine in any way. But please, be mindful of the fact that I have known this family for years and I will not pass a quick, harsh, judgement on them. Jesus is my Saviour and His opinion is the only one that matters to me. I love the Lord and I am so thankful to Him for all He has done in my life.

Things to be thankful for today:
Another day to serve the Lord
A child's hug:0) (Thanks Caroline)
Friends
My job
A nice, cool breeze