Late July..Larry and I did it. Something I for sure thought I never would. Fell in love!! With a beautiful little 4 month of Multipoo named Isabelle. After the loss of Jackson then my Dad last year I never thought I could risk ever having to say goodbye to another pet. After a year of grieving the loss of both I was looking thru photos and videos and online and saw her. It was then that I realized no matter the pain the love makes it all worth while. I was missing the love. Isabelle is awesome. She's so funny! She walks on her hind legs like a bear more than 50% of the time. She's my shadow for sure. She's almost 6 months now, and she's been spayed last month. She knows most every trick even speak. Now if I could teach her to speak to potty we would be gold. All the sudden this past week my sweet girl started testing me. Running downstairs and chewing on my rug, just testing. Not like she doesn't have a basket of chew toys herself. She's also started barking after about 3 hrs sleep at night wanting out of her room. I finally figured out what is happening. She's turned into a teen. Our baby girl is a teen..oh my goodness we're in for it. This morning I opened her door to let her out and she came dragging her blanket between her legs like a 2 year old. I love it. I wouldn't have missed this for the world. So Larry and I have planned another trip this time to Az in Nov. so he can meet the cousins. We had thought about a long trip but that was before we got Isabelle. I think it will be shorter now. Can't wait, got to get our hotel booked and flight tickets. Still don't feel 100% but life is getting better, I feel happy and blessed. Will catch you up on things later..I wish you love.

March I went to Az to spend time with cousins that I haven't seen for 40 years. Was gone 9 days and loved my trip. Marian, David, Carol and I hung out everyday and had dinner together caught up on all things family. I got to meet their children and grandchildren then we had a cookout at cousin Dave's house the weekend before I left. It was so nice to meet everyone. I'm thankful to facebook, because I was able to search for family that had moved away and pick up where we left off many years ago.

I know I know..I said I would have more to say about our vacation last year.It was nice. We had some time at Disneyland, did plays, movies and really cool dinners. We spent the day at the beach in Newport beach which was absolutely beautiful for Dec. 28th. It was an awesome day of reflection and beauty. When we got home we relaxed in the gym. New Years Eve, we got ready for dinner in a nice place inside the hotel, then to the room to pack. Finished in time to see the New Year in then fast asleep for the trip home. Yes, I know I've left out quite a bit but..it was our first vacation together *winks*.

The photo was taken by Larry, it's a homeless man on the beach that I had some conversation with.

Vacation Dec. 23rd- Jan. 1st to Ca. woooooooooooooohoooooo!

Larry and I finally got away. Our first vacation alone ever after almost 28 years of marriage. First night, not so cool. Took forever to get to car rental place from downtown LA. Then it took another 5 hours to find the hotel in what should have been a 45 min trip to Disneyland. But Larry bought a GPS to find the way instead of asking directions and couldn't find the way. After a few hours of my back killing me and being down right afraid because we were lost we saw a Sheriff on side of the highway and ask him to set the GPS for us to the hotel in Anaheim. Yep he did, he set it wrong :( we finally stopped at a liquor store and ask directions and had to potty inside a bar, but made it to the hotel. You realize at this point I was so upset that I've left a lot of things out. Like the flight, the flight being late yada yada. We get to hotel get bags to room. Get microwave and fridge set up and I'm sooo sleepy. I go thru my bags only to find that we were missing one back at the LA airport 45 mins away which could be up to 5 hours LOL and my pillow is in that darn suitcase. Call the airport and Larry can't understand the woman with baggage anymore than he could understand the GPS lady giving directions. I take the phone and determine that I won't be using my own pillow. Suitcase will have to wait til tomorrow, to late to get it now. Next day we get up and realize that we need to exchange rental cars while we're in LA because the one we had wasn't large enough to get our all luggage in. Might have been good thing we forgot it. Thought we'd try to get a more comfortable car, trade up so we could ride up to San Diego and spend the day at Sea World. Not to be. The one we got was big enough to get all the luggage back to LA when time to leave but the seats were so hard ugh. Next trip ..Sea World, we'll just go there. Will add to this trip later..as you can see 9 days is a long time. God bless, G'night.

Time to catch up.

Wow it's been awhile. So many things (life) have happened since my last post. Dad passed away June 26th 2011. God was merciful to him, he hardly suffered. It was a rough 3 months but I was able to get him into a care home near me and be with him every day. We talked about God and heaven. He didn't have much to say on the subjects. Once while talking about heaven he made the statement that he wasn't so sure that we didn't just go into a box and the ground when it's all over. Broke my heart. Sounded like no faith to me at all. But God is his final Judge and I hope that I lived the life before him that God called me to. I loved him and forgave him. After all we're all human with faults and weakness. It's been a long day and it's late so I'll add some more later this week to try to fill in the blank spots the past few months. God bless.

Sad :(

It's been a rough few months. Jax our 12 year old poodle grew ill with diabetes. Then came down with cushings. I had to send him to the Rainbow Bridge last Wednesday. He is greatly missed :(
Today I got a call from my Brother Don, my Dad has cancer..a lung full of it. He see's the cancer doctor on April 1st, we'll decide what treatment is best then. I guess this must be another growing time in the Lord, certainly feels like a valley to me. So tired of death and dying. Need lots os strength to get thru this one, and another vacation wouldn't hurt. God help me!

It's time to catch up in 2011

First I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year. God's blessings in your lives.

Now I'm going to try to fill in some blanks and catch up the past few years that I've been busy living life.

In late Nov. 2007 my Brother Allen ended his life. He was 49, and way to young to give up. Needless to say it broke my heart and took all my words away. I'm still hurting and missing him we spoke almost daily, but he would want me to move forward with my life and not stay rooted in the pain of loss. Allen was the kindest, sweetest person that I've ever known. I never would have believed that life would get to big and heavy for him. So I am still in some shock.

As some of you know my family has dealt with the power of addictions. My Dad was a drunk and abuser. Two of my Sister's were into medications, three neices, and another brother. They had all been seeing the same doctor that was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison this year and his wife 33 years. For over prescribing medications and robbing the insurance companies.

The good news, my Dad is clean and sober for about 9 years now, and involved in our lives like the Dad I always dreamed of having. He's no longer abusive and he's all about helping his family and trying to repair the damage he caused. He will be 81 this month.

Bad news my Sister Catherine passed away May 2010. That's two family members in a short time. Cathy lost her battle of addiction and ended up with heart and lung problems. Another heart breaker. Sometimes I wonder, God what are you thinking? But I know that He's in charge when we allow him to be.

I became a Great Nana last year to Adalynn, Nathans baby girl and his wife Amber. So along with the pain there's been blessings. We now have 19 grands and one great. Ages 3-22.

Larry and I are doing well, I believe that we have a good relationship with good communication. That's why we're about ready to celebrate our 27th anniversary together.

A year ago May our oldest Furkid Alphie (toy apricot poodle) passed he was 15. This past month our almost 13 year old Jackson (silver toy poodle) has been put on insulin for diabetes. He's almost blind and he has 3 bad disc in his neck that are bone on bone. The fact that he's on steroids concerns me and makes me believe that things are downhill for him now. But we are enjoying the time that we do have left with him.

Our Pom zoe is almost 7 already, times goes by to quickly. We've made up our minds no more pets. We hate goodbyes.

Our Photography business has slowed down, as others have but Nora and I are enjoying the time off. We would rather do what we love when we want to rather than be rushed and not be it enjoyable.

I've joined Face Book and it's allowed me to keep up with my son Thomas in Tx. and Daughter Lorinda in KC. I've also caught up with friends and family members in other states so I'm enjoying that. I've learned this past year that no matter what comes my way, I have the strength to get thru it. How do I know that? Because God promised that he wouldn't put on me more than I can bear. Hopefully this fills in some blanks. God bless you all in the coming new year.

Happy New Year 2010

I've been slack in writing, to busy living life. WOW it has been a while so I'll try to fill in the blanks from the past few years and get this updated. God has been very good to me and I'll do my best to share the good, bad and ugly with you. The Picture I'm posting here is proof of God's miracles.

Happy New Year 2007

Hi Friends, Family and Loved ones..

As the New Year quickly approaches I think of each of You..
Those who have had a lot of love and happiness in they're lives this year..and those who have over come great obstacles..with illness, loss of family friends and loved ones. I have watched many of you go through things that have broken your hearts yet made you stronger. I've talked with you personally and prayed with and for you while many of you have prayed and encouraged me. I can't say thank you enough for being my friend.. for allowing me to know that there's always someone here to turn to that cares.
So Friends Let's hold hands and take one more step towards joy and happiness..towards laughter and fun and begin a new journey of togetherness and love.
Yesterday is gone forever..
Today is today..
Tomorrow is never until it's today..
Wishing You all..strength..love..happiness..joy..and Peace in the New Year.. (2007) Your the best of the best!
God bless You..
Yvonne

Christmas in my heart

Hi Friends...

I wanted to tell You about a Christmas Miracle that happened to me last week. As many of you know, my dad and I haven't spoken for many years. When we did it was always in the company of others and was usually a heart breaking time for me. My dad has a Paranoid mental disorder. That coupled with the fact that he used to drink and use medication have lead him to make bad choices in life. He grew up a very angry man who abused his family in many sad ways. He's always been angry and abusive. We were unable to be a normal Father and Daughter and just avoided each other.
Three weeks ago realizing that my Dad is now about 75 and with Christmas coming I found something I thought he might be able to use. It's a blanket throw that say *I'm smiling because your my dad and I'm laughing because it's your own fault" . So I decided to personalize that and get it for him.
It came two weeks ago. Last week I called and ask him if I could bring him something for Christmas but he didn't return my call. So, the next day my brother called him and set it up for me to go see him the next day.
I made my plans...prayed and went alone to see him. On the way I prayed again, I was so nervous..and thought about the things that I would say to him. You see.. I wanted the war between us to end.
When I got there he had the door open (he lives in an appt.) he left the door open. I think so that I would be comfortable being there with him.
We talked about family and ourselves for about two hours. We hadn't really talked for more than 6 years. We talked about my sisters and they're addictions to medications and how they are doing and my brother that's trying to get Disability etc. and it was a nice chat but just that chit chat. He loved the throw and I covered him with it. Then I sat down beside him and tried to take his hands in mine but he turned his downward so I left mine on top of his. I told him that we were getting to old to continue the old battle that it was time to let things go and move on the best we can.
He told me that he knew how his treatment of me had effected my life and that he was sorry for what he did. I in turn told him that I was sorry for any pain that I've caused him in his life. I ask him if I could pray with him. He looked quite nervous..and seemed that he wanted to refuse (when I was a child he was called to the ministry and turned his back on it to party and gamble)..He looked up and saw my face and said okay. I thanked God that him and I had the chance to talk and make things right.. and I ask God to keep his hand on my Dad and that He would help us to have the Father Daughter relationship that we've never had. When I got up to walk to the door, Dad had tears in his eyes..he walked me to the door and I hugged him and wished him a *Merry Christmas*. It was so refreshing compared to the way things have always been. I believe that at last we have peace between us..lasting peace and for that I'm thankful. It has to be the best blessing..the best Christmas present this year. Possibly the best one I've ever had.
I want to wish each of you a Merry Christmas..I pray that God would help you heal all the broken roads in your life..and that you will never ..ever give up hope and faith in Him. The Baby Jesus born in a stable that came so that we could be healed..have peace and joy and salvation in Him. Celebrate the love of Christ the love of our Father this Christmas and be blessed in Him..Love always..
Yvonne

I am blessed

Today my heart is full and grateful. I have two grandson's Daniel the oldest and Nathan the second oldest who graduate next year. They are such handsome good boys. They have truly blessed my heart watching them grow into young men. It's different watching your own grow and watching your grand children. When you don't live with them you see the changes in they're lives differently. One day they are babies and the next day grown.
I remember holding Daniel at the hospital the day he was born holding the past and future in my hands it was so awesome! Then the day he was about 4 and told me he couldn't get his sandals on when I knew he could. But all the sudden he developed the *I can'ts,* because he said "I'm not big enough"* Things he had been doing for a long time on his own "he couldn't" I had to laugh at him.. he wanted attention. I learned so much watching him grow. The day came that he ask me why I always listened to *Jesus music* I think he was 6 or 7 and I told him because that's the only music that Nana likes. We were in the car and had the radio on. It amazed me that he even noticed though I'm not sure that he cared for my choice in music. A few minutes later we were still in the car and he ask where we were headed .. I told him we had to get Papa picked up and get to church. He said "we're going to church and giving offering?" He liked giving offering. I said yes and then he ask why we give offering. I told him that the bible tells us to give one. Well we had just bought him a little bible of is own and he had it with him He pointed at it and ask "Nana does it say that in my bible too?" I told him yes and showed him. "train them up the way they should go and when they are old they won't depart." I thank God for the wisdom that comes only from him and Daniel' parents who have always guided and loved him and had his best interest at heart. I'm also thankful for the chance to watch him row into a fine young man.
Nathan was a difficult young man at first on the other hand. I would tell him not to do something and he would look me square in the eye and then do it while looking at me. He was not as much fun to be around as Daniel. Daniel was the clown. Well has time as gone by Daniel has grown shy and quiet and Nathan has turned into the young man that wants to please. He always has a smile and a hug and words of love and concern for him. His Mom and Dad have done a great job of raising his in the Lord.
As we prepare for they're graduation and take they're senior pictures I'm reminded that these two will be on they're own soon with lives of they're own. I look forward to them getting they're diplomas..and the things that life holds for them. There's one thing they can count on. They're Nana is in they're corner with love and prayers each day that God will bless them and they will always be a blessing. So boys..go forth : ) Your Nana loves You and she's proud of You.
Picture above (Me and Daniel)

Time passes to quickly. It seems that each month it passes faster. The scripture that says that our lives are just a vapor James 4:13-17 are so true. We're hardly here and then it's over. So many things happen in such a small span of time. We grow from baby to teen to married life to middle age then old age then death.
This is what I want to talk about today. The things that happen between Birth and Death. If You've read my biography you know that life hasn't been easy for me. Although I've had many blessings along the way.
Today as we approach the end of this year and the beginning of a new one I look back in amazement at the things that God has done in my life and the things that I've over come. The biggest I believe was learning to totally let go of self and die to my own desires and allow God to have my desires each day. Living and dying are a process. Just as we die in the flesh with age..we must die in the spirit as we allow God to increase and ourselves to decrease.
Usually by this time of year I'm making plans for the new year. Knowing I've learned from the past one the things that I never want to go through again. But, this year I'm going to do something different. I have only one plan and know that can change. From today on..I'm moving over and allowing God to make the plans. You see it doesn't matter what I desire, if He doesn't desire it for me and doesn't help me bring it to pass it's not His will so it's not mine either. I want HIS will for my life in all things. I desire HIS blessings and the life HE has planned for me.
So, I have recovered from a broken leg and also from a broken heart. I'm laying it all down to cross the line to the new year with a right spirit and a clean heart. My final words of wisdom for this year... we must decrease so HE can increase. God bless You richly in the new year. Yvonne

Our God is an awesome God!

I know it's been awhile since I've written here but I have a few close friends who need this today. (You know who You are) Just for You.

I know you're tired. I know you feel overwhelmed.
You may feel as though this crisis, this problem, this hard time will last forever.

It won't. You are almost through.

You don't just "think" it has been hard; it has been hard.
You have been tested, tried, and retested on what you have learned.

Your beliefs and your faith have been tried in fire. You have believed, then doubted, then, worked at believing some more. You have had to have faith even when you could not see or imagine what you were asked to believe.
Those around you may have tried to convince you not to believe in what you were hoping you could believe.

You have had opposition. You have not gotten to this place with total support and joy.
You have had to work hard, in spite of what was happening around you.
Sometimes, what motivated you was anger; sometimes fear.

Things went wrong....more problems occurred than you anticipated. There were obstacles, frustrations,
and annoyances en route. You did not plan on this being the way it would evolve.
Much of this has been a surprise; some of it has not been at all what you desired.

Yet, it has been good. part of you, the deepest part that knows truth, has sensed this all along,
even when your head told you that things were out of whack and crazy,
that there was no plan or purpose, that God had forgotten you.

So much has happened, and each incident....the most painful, the most troubling,
the most surprising....has a connection. You are beginning to see and sense that.

You never dreamt things would happen this way, did you? But they did. Now you are learning the secret....
they were meant to happen this way, and this way is good, better than what you expected.

You didn't believe it would take this long, either...did you? But it did. You have learned patience.

You never thought you could have it, but now you know you do.

You have been led. Many were the moments when you thought you were forgotten, when you were convinced you had been abandoned. Now you know you have been guided. Now things are coming into place.
You are almost at the end of this phase, this difficult portion of the journey. The lesson is almost complete.
You know....the lesson, you fought, resisted, and insisted you could not learn. Yes, that one. You have almost mastered it.

You have been changed from the inside out. You have been moved to a different level, a higher level, a better level.

You have been climbing a mountain. It has not been easy, but mountain climbing is never easy.
Now, you are near the top. A moment longer, and the victory shall be yours.

Steady your shoulders. Breathe deeply. Move forward in confidence and peace.
The time is coming to relish and enjoy all which you have fought for. That time is drawing near, finally.

I know you have thought before that the time was drawing near, only to learn that it wasn't.
But now, the reward is coming. You know that too. You can feel it.

Your struggle has not been in vain. For every struggle on this journey, there is a climax, a resolution.

Peace, joy, abundant blessings, and reward are yours here on earth. Enjoy!

There will be more mountains, but now you know how to climb them.
And you have learned the secret of what is at the top......abundant life! Freedom!
Everything that your heart has desired. It will all come to pass.

Remember to keep climbing to the top, don't look back. You will make it because Jesus is leading the way and has a hold on you that will never release. He will make sure that you have success. You will make it. Don't give up!
And remember, I love you, but Jesus loves you so much more than I ever could.

Today Mother while other's celebrate the independence of this nation and it's people, I celebrate Your independence of this world and life in Jesus Christ. I miss You and long for the day that I'm with You in His arms. This world has lost it's allure to me, just as it did to You and now I understand, more than Your words could ever say about.. Your longing to be with Jesus.
Happy Birthday Mom..
Vonnie

The ultimate freedom..

May God bless you this day … with the ultimate freedom!


Once when I was shopping at a mall with my Mom I noticed a young mother with her 3 year old son. He was quite attached to her. Literally. She had him in a harness with a lease, and though he struggled, she was able to keep him under control and out of harm. I could tell by his constant whining that he clearly wanted his freedom. Finally the mother's will was broken and she released the prisoner. With a shriek of joy, he ran wildly around the displays, counters and customers, straight into a wall. His screams were deafening.

On July 4 each year, we in the U.S. celebrate Independence Day. It's a time of family, fun, and fireworks. It's also a time when we hear a lot about freedom. Though the word is used quite often, few understand it. Many believe freedom means the ability to say and do and be whatever they want. Sorta like a 3 year old. But such freedom requires making everyone around them do what they want so they can have this freedom. Good for them. Bad for the rest of us.

Freedom must have a reference. There is no such thing as total or absolute freedom, only things we can be free from. But there's also a catch. For every freedom, there is a restraint. We can have freedom of speech, but can't yell "Fire" in a theatre. We can have freedom of assembly but not to cause a riot. Yet for all the freedoms we may hold dear or long for, there is only one that really matters. Only one that carries beyond the confines and reaches of this world. Only one that has lasting meaning.

Once as Jesus sat in the temple courts, a group of people gathered, bringing with them a certain woman.

"Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?" ... But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her. Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?

"No one, sir," she said.

Then neither do I condemn you , Jesus declared. Go now and leave your life of sin. John 8:4-11

This is a story of Freedom ... Man's Freedom versus God's Freedom. On the one hand, just look at all of Man's Freedoms here. This group of guys gathered together, so there was freedom to assemble. They publicly told the truth about this woman, freedom of speech. They were following their own theology, freedom of religion. And as for the woman, well, she was just exercising her freedom to live life any way she chose. But all of these freedoms, those real and imagined, meant nothing to Jesus.

Have you ever wondered what Jesus was writing in the sand? No one is certain, but here's what I believe. As the woman stood before Him and those in the crowd demanded "judgment", Jesus was making a list of the sins of each. Adultery, pride, jealousy, evil desires. They questioned Him further and still He wrote. Greed, anger, rage, malice, slander. So what did it all mean?

For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin - because anyone who has died has been freed from sin. Romans 6:6-7

God grants the ultimate freedom...freedom from sin. Freedom from its effect on us emotionally, physically, and psychologically. Freedom from the shame that it brings. Freedom from its control on our lives and how we feel about ourselves and others. Freedom to enter into a relationship with Someone who will always listen to us, always care for us, and always love, yes, even us.

So what's the catch? What's the restraint we must accept? Simply to love Him in return. When we do, our sins, like words written in the dust, are washed away by the Living Water, never to be seen again.

God bless You with true Freedom today and always,
Yvonne

Paul

Hi Friends,
I called the hospital last night to get an update on Paul. I was told that he was off of the breathing machine and that he had eaten supper. I then ask to speak with him. He said that he was doing ok though he had a rough voice from the tube. He said that he wouldn't be trying that again and that he was sorry. He ask me to thank everyone who's prayed for him. SO here it is. Thank you for Your prayer's for Paul and for Our Family. I know that God had his hand on us and that it was Your prayer's that helped us through.
God bless You,
Yvonne

Prayer request for my Son Paul

Friends Monday morning at 2:00 am. my son Paul was found in a coma. He's in prison as most of You know and He tried to take his life with anti-depressants. He was raised to know God but has lived a very troubled life. As of today at 12:00 noon he was still in a coma and his brain waves showed supressed brain waves. He was having seizures when they life watched him and they had to put him on several medications. In the next 2-5 days they are backing off the medications to see if He will come out of the coma or what will happen. It's not good. I ask you to continue prayer's for Him for God's will.
Yvonne & Family

My Happy Birthday

Hi Friends..
Today is both my Birthday and Father's Day. My mind has so many thoughts running around in it, but I'm going to try and focus on a few good things that I'd like to share with you today.
As most of You know that read this, things haven't been to good in my family with it having a history of chemical abuse, and all the other kinds of abuses that I've spoken about here.
I tried very hard with the event of my 55th Birthday coming to make some sense of my life. Praying and seeking God's face about what He wants from me with the rest of my life for however much longer that is.
This past year has brought family problems, with a broken leg and two operations for me. I reached a point that I didn't want to wake up. I just wanted to go to sleep and be with Jesus. Yes, selfish thought I know. Sometimes we go through things in life and wonder where "our Father" is in all of this. I have prayed for years that my Father and I would be able to talk and be at peace with each other. I have cried and prayed and seeked God's face for us. I've needed a Dad to love me and have a normal relationship with. Not someone who was angry and abusive.
Most of You know that I have two sister's who have problems with medications. Well this past year one of them has OD and had to be put on life support several times. She's addicted to Loritab, Ultram, and Soma. She got into trouble with her doctor for doing what's called double dipping..getting meds from more than one doctor. Then she started getting them online. It seems that You can get just about anything your heart desires online. I think that's why they call it being caught up in the web. The past 3 weeks while recovering from my last operation, I've been trying to help this sister to get off these medications. She's been addicted since the age of 16, she's now 53 so needless to say this has been her life. The past two years she has had accidents and broken ribs and almost died because of this addiction. But, something else was happening that I slowly have became aware of. While all this was happening, our dad was getting more and more caring and concerned where my sister's are involved. He's been trying to help them to get help. He and I had not spoken for more than a year and half until the past week.
It seems that God our Father has been working on Dad's heart to be more loving and caring and involved in this family that he abused and left many years ago. Many prayers have been prayed for God to open this mans heart and heal his spirit. Many years of tears and fasting and wondering and even losing hope at times that I would ever have his love.
Last week he called me and ask me to help my sister get to her appointment with a doctor and asked how my leg was. Well friends, this man is not my Dad. He has never been concerned with asking how I am.
Yesterday we had to put my sister in detox. Today I went to see her. Broken, shaking, scared, in withdrawl. Teeth clenched so tight she could hardly be understood when she spoke. Clenching her teeth, shaking, head drawing back from muscle spasms, chills, sick and restless and knowing that she might die. I prayed with her and reminded her that I love her more than she loves the medications. It broke my heart to leave her today. I guess she called dad when I left her, and told him I had been up. He soon called me, and ask how I was. Yes, our Father God has been listening, even when I thought his ears were closed against me. He has heard our prayer's. Today for the first time in my life, on both my Birthday and Father's Day, I was able to wish my Dad a heart felt "Happy Father's Day Dad" and smile. For 55 years I have longed for this day. With both joy that God is restoring my dad, and tears for what my sister is going through, I thank God for this Birthday, I praise You Jesus! I have longed for and lived for this day. If I never see another day in my life I can truly say, I am blessed and my spirit is finding peace. Happy Father's day to my Family and Friends, and Happy Father's day to my Father in Heaven.

Feeling the heat in Your life?

Malachi 3:3 says: "He will sit as a refiner and
purifier of silver."
This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and
they wondered what
this statement meant about the character and nature of
God.

One of the women offered to find out the process of
refining silver
and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an
appointment to
watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about
the reason for
her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of
refining silver.

As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of
silver over the
fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining
silver, one
needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire
where the flames
were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.

The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot
spot; then she
thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as
a refiner and
purifier of silver." She asked the silversmith if it
was true that he had to sit
there in front of the fire the whole time the silver
was being refined.

The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit
there holding the
silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the
entire time it
was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too
long in the flames,
it would be destroyed.

The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the
silversmith,
"How do you know when the silver is fully refined?"

He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy --
when I see my image in it"

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire,
remember that God has
his eye on you and will keep watching you until He
sees His image in you.

Prayer Request..

Hi Friends..
I come to You with a heavy heart today and a special prayer request. June the 3rd a friend of Mine and Nora's was killed in an accident at one of our area lakes. Here's the information:
Our friend Matthew Crump age 36 was killed yesterday in a boating accident. We did the photography at Him and Tina's wedding two years ago. Please keep this family in prayer while they make arrangements to say goodbye. They are a young family and have children. My Daughter Nora is especially close to Tina who almost lost her Mom a year ago to cancer.
God bless,
Yvonne

Wichita man dies in lake
Dove into water looking for fishing pole:
By Chris Durden
KWCH 12 Eyewitness News
Sunday, June 4, 2006

A man dives into a lake in woodson county and doesn't come up. The sheriff's office says Matthew Allen Crump of Wichita dove into the waters of Cross Timbers State Lake to retrieve a fishing pole.

Divers recovered his body late last night. Investigators aren't sure yet if crump drowned or if he hit something in the water. An autopsy is pending.
Thank You and God bless,
Yvonne
Above is a picture of Matthew and Tina

Message to my friends..

To those of You who remembered me in prayer while I was recovering from a broken.. foot (ankle) (leg) my heart felt thank you so much. You don't know what a blessing You are to me. I wanted to let you know that my surgery to remove the plate and screws two weeks ago went well, and I had the stitches removed yesterday. I still have a pain in my heal when walking and stiffness and some swelling but I'm believing God for a full recovery. Thank you for walking through the valley with me.
God bless You,
Yvonne

Friend..thank you

People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. When you figure out which it is, you will know exactly what to do.

Some people come into our lives and quickly go..
Some people become friends and stay awhile...
leaving beautiful footprints in our hearts...
and we are never quite the same..

When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed outwardly or inwardly. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally, or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend, and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrong doing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up or out and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled; their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and it is now time to move on.

When people come into your life for a SEASON, it is because your turn has come to share, grow, or learn. They may bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it! It is real! But, only for a season

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons; those things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person or people involved; and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships, and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

Thank You for being a part of my life.

call to be HUMBLE

May God bless you this day… to be humble!

once spoke at a minister and lay leadership conference and was amazed how much fun they had together. I mentioned this to the conference chairman and he laughed. Well, here they relax, kick back, and forget about trying to be the only authority this side of heaven. They remember some humility.

Christian leaders have a tough time. They’re charged with sharing the truth, knowing the Bible inside and out, and taking a stand even when others are nowhere to be found. But sometimes, without meaning to, they forget who they are. Suddenly their direction cannot be questioned and their decisions become law.

And the very same thing happens to most of us ! We grow in Christ, study His Word, and pray. But sometimes we take pride in our relationship with God. The Apostle Paul once said, Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. (Philippians 2:3-4)

Susan Paradise is a former Ciloa Director and has an important lesson for us all.

Take care and be God’s,

Chuck

______________________________________________



A few months ago a lady began attending our church immediately after being released from jail. She had accepted Christ while incarcerated and now hungered for His Word and to be a part of a Christian family. Several of us women took her under our wing and ministered to her, buying her clothes and a nice study Bible. Every week she faithfully attended Sunday School and Worship Service.

Then a few days ago, I received a collect call from the county detention center. It was my friend, after having failed a parole-required drug test. She explained she would remain there until at least her sentencing. She asked me to inform the others and to seek their prayers, letters, and any Bible study material anyone could send her. I assured her we would do so.

After I hung up with her, I wrestled the rest of the day with feelings of pity versus feeling like throwing my hands up and saying, I told her not to do any drugs! To call one of us if she was tempted! Disappointed, I steadily grew self-righteous as the day turned into night.

As I prayed for her in my nightly prayer time, my prayer intensified as God began softening my heart. And then He gently spoke to me. You know that “little” sin you’re working on in your life? How you slip up now and again? That’s exactly what she did she slipped up. It just so happens her sin is also illegal in man’s eye and she ended up in jail. But by the grace of Me, so you would be also because all sin is the same in My eyes. Yours is not better or worse than hers. Now, get in the gap and you pray for my hurting child and minister to her as I have taught you.

Oh wow, that was one humbling prayer time! I began to understand how a brand new Christian would not know the power in calling on Christian sisters to help build her up when she was feeling weak. She’d never experienced it. She’d hungered for a Christian family but didn’t know what all it offered. And my heart broke as I thought of Ecclesiastes 4:10,12, If one falls down, his friends can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!...Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

She just didn’t know! The more mature Christians need to do more than buy a nice study Bible for brand new Christians. We need to SHOW them the scriptures that actually apply to what we are telling them and share with them our own experiences with these Truths. We also need to REMIND ourselves that our “little hidden” sins are no different in God’s eyes than their “big visible” ones. It is impossible to minister to these vulnerable babes in Christ, properly, if we can’t humbly identify with them.

Susan Paradise
Ciloa ... Encouraging one another as long as it is called Today!

Time the most valuable thing a person can spend

Time is too slow to wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too quick for those who rejoice. But for those who love, time is too short!

The value of life to me lies not in the length of days, but in the use we make of them; a person may live long yet live very little. To me; it's what have you done in your life to help make this world a better place. It's never to late to change one's ways. Till one matures and understands truly what they are on this earth for, one cannot successfully lead a gratified life. We are all hear to learn and to give. Though many live there entire lives making everyone around them miserable and being takers there entire lives. There is an end. One day everyone will have to stand before a much more powerful being, and will all be judged there. I believe that the bible teaches that we are to be tried in the fire to be like pure gold. In this life if we fail a trial we will be givin that same trial over and over again in many ways in our life times until we pass that test. It's best to remember when we are in that fire being tried that Jesus is in that furnance with US. We are not alone.

Time is truly the most valuable thing one can spend. Time is the moving image of eternity. We put off things; saying to ourselves I'll get to it later or tomorrow. Who says you will have a tomorrow. There are no guarantees in life. There is no guarantee that you or I will be here tomorrow. I read comments just about everyday from friends who lose a love one suddenly. They want to know why? I don't have all the answers. To so many questions there are no answers. Time is what we all want most, but...what we use worst.

You have not lived a perfect day, even though you have earned your money, unless you have done something for someone who will never be able to repay you.

We all need to count on living every single day in a way you believe will make you feel good about your life; so that if it were over tomorrow, you'd be content with yourself.

Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can.

Live each day as if it were your last. We take so much for granted in our lives. Time should not be one of them. Every second that ticks by is now in our history. Time is just about the only thing that money can't buy. Think about that. The richest in the world can't change, alter nor control time. It moves at it's own steady pace and never stops. Make as many moments in time a memorable one. Hopefully a good one to look back upon.

Though this might not be by any means my most uplifting blog I've written, I just want people to be aware of how life works. Not ever to take there lives or their health for granted. Be a better person today not tomorrow. Waking up everyday is a blessing in itself. Making another feel good for no specific reason is one step closer to earning your wings!

"Plan B" ..written by Michael

Nobody's "Plan B" Since I have Fridays off, I was lazily laying in bed, contemplating when I should get up, when my phone rang... on the other end of the line was a sweet friend that I had met on MySpace... as I found out later, she was in a mental funk, and decided to give me a call... we had talked before about the breakup with her former boy friend (hereafter know as EX)... well this weekend she has a birthday and had made plans months ago with EX to do something special... but now EX has a new girl friend, but still talks to her... and she still has a deep attachment to him but EX's new G/F resents the relationship that they still have... and that he expected new G/F to see him way about "open" relationships... I tell you all of that to get to this... during our conversation, she mentioned that if EX's new G/F doesn't work out, he always has her... then something profound came out of my mouth that even surprised me... and that's what I wanted to share it with you...I told her that you are nobody's PLAN B... that you are too special a person to be someone's second choice... you're either first choice or no choice...Gotta say it again so you hear it ring through the rest of you life...No matter what kind of relationship you are in... you are nobody's PLAN B... you are not the fall back position... you ARE NOT anyones last minute call up... you deserve to be first choice... PLAN A... number one on the list... Numero uno!!! Otherwise, it's time to move on... period!!! What we figured out in her case, was that she had romanticized EX into a PhotoShop version of EX... she remembered all the good stuff... but edited out (like with Photoshop) all the bad parts... the things that made her crazy... So now she's a little happier and I have something to remember from this conversation for the rest of my life...And as you read the last line of this, I want you to remember two things... you are very special.... and you are Nobody's PLAN B...Thanks for listening. <3
My comment: Your the best friend that a woman could have and I'm so thankful that You allow God to use You and speak through You. Your so right! We are no one's plan B. We are children of the KING. Never allow anyone to give You less then their very best and first place in their life. Your special you deserve plan A.
I have to share this with You..it just fits.
God bless and thank you Michael,<3 Boo

Waiting For God's Best

Everyone longs to give themselves completely to someone, to have a deep relationship with another, to be loved thoroughly and exclusively.

But to His child, the Lord says: "No, not until you are satisfied, fulfilled, and content with being loved by Me; with giving yourself totally and unreservedly to Me to have an intensely personal relationship with Me alone, discovering that only in Me is your satisfaction to be found.

Only then will you be capable of the most perfect relationship that I have planned for you. "I want you to stop planning, stop wishing, and allow Me to give you the most thrilling plan existing… one that you cannot imagine (Proverbs 3:5-6).

I want you to have the best. Please allow Me to bring it to you. "You just keep watching Me. Keep experiencing the satisfaction that I am. Keep listening and learning the things that I tell you. Just waiting-that's all.

"Don't be anxious. Don't worry. Don't look around at all the things others have gotten or that I have given them. Don't look at all the things you think you want. Just keep looking up to Me.

"And then, when I know you are ready, I'll surprise you with a love far wonderful than any you would dream of. You see, I'm working at this moment to have you both ready at the same time. Until you are satisfied exclusively with Me, and the life I've given you, you won't be able to experience the love that exemplifies your relationship with Me.

"Dear one, I want you to have this most wonderful love, I want you to see in the flesh a picture of your relationship with Me, and to enjoy materially and concretely the everlasting union of beauty, perfection, and love that I offer you with myself. "Know that I love you utterly. Be satisfied in Me."


Author Unknown

My report on surgery

Hi Friends..Just wanted to let You know that surgery went well and fast! Thanks to each of You for prayer. Most of You have gotten pictures of my ankle and the metal that was removed. In Jesus Name I'm going to have a complete recovery~ amen PS. If you didn't get pictures and want them ask me. God bless, Yvonne

Surgery day..

Hi Friends.. for those of you who ask to be updated on my recovery here's the story. Last week I completed two months of therapy and got most of my range of motion back. I go in for surgery tomorrow May the 19, to have all the metal removed. Plate and 10 screws. The doctor gave me a long list of things that could go wrong. Lets see; Blood clots, infection that could cost me to lose my foot, a few other things that would scare any nomal person and even death. Needless to say I'm a little nervous about it. This will be my third operation in about a year and half, and I hate being put under. After the doctor told me all of the bad things that could go wrong I said so, "What's the worse that can happen, I go to sleep and wake up in Heaven?" That doesn't seem so bad to me. So, I ask you Friends to keep me in prayer once again, and thank each of You for Your love and friendship. I am blessed by You. I'll post a notice soon and let You know how things went, and if something should go wrong (which I doubt) I'm believing God for a long life here. But, if it should..I'll see You at Jesus feet. God bless..Yvonne

The DaVinci Code

May God bless you this day… to find the small gate!


It’s hard on a mother when someone puts down her son. Here in the U.S. there is such a high value placed on the freedom of speech that we pretty much allow anyone to say anything about anybody. As for public figures, we can get away with virtually anything, especially if they’re dead. Books about historical figures make all kinds of claims, even with no evidence. Of course, the dead can’t defend themselves against the fiction a writer may use in order to sell more books. And though their mothers usually aren’t here either, it would be terrible for them to read lies about their children.

There once was a boy who had a hard life. Although his family had what appeared to be close ties to the church and he was raised in what appeared to be a Christian environment, the boy was often molested by his father and uncles. When he finally broke free, he traveled across the country and tried to be a singer and songwriter. With little success, he returned home to become a teacher and author.

His first books had marginal success. In one he claimed to be a woman author, but that didn’t really help sales either. Then he came up with an idea. He would write a story about one mother’s son. He would make up a story but write it as though the elements were actual fact. That way he could re-create the son in whatever form he chose. He could make him a wonderful person, but that would not bring in the huge sales or make him rich. Instead, he chose to make the son a deceiving, manipulative liar.

Now, often the key to sales is controversy. So he decided to fashion his story as an attack on religion, particularly the one that failed to protect him in his youth. He would do this by lying about the mother’s son. He didn’t care about the son’s reputation. The son and his immediate family had all died, so there was no one to sue him. And as for the feelings of those who knew the son, he didn’t care about them either. Truth was not an issue. The goal was his personal recognition and wealth.

The book was very successful and the public demanded a movie. The studio brought in a director and an actor everyone loved. Such endearing people could hide the truth and draw upon people’s natural desire to control their own lives, do as they please, see what they want, and live by their own rules.

And so…The DaVinci Code will soon be coming to a theatre near you. Dan Brown writes the elements of what he is presenting as truth, while actual authorities show they are lies. And what are these lies?

Jesus is not God nor the Son of God. He did not die on the cross. He did not atone for our sins. He is a liar, a deceiver, a fraud, a manipulator. Under ancient religious doctrine, Jesus is therefore - evil.

Think of someone you loved who has died. Remember the wonderful things about that person, perhaps a deep kindness or willingness to help others, maybe a desire to make the world a better place or a commitment to be there for you in good times and bad. If Mr. Brown wrote about this person, re-creating him or her into a lying, deceiving, manipulating, self-absorbed individual, would you read his book? Would you go to his movie? Would you pay money for his efforts in demeaning the person you loved?

There are 2 gates. One is wide and broad. It leads to a beautiful lobby where there is food and drink. Beyond is a cushioned chair in a darkened, cool room with relaxing music to help you forget reality. There you will find a message about one mother’s son. The message will appear as fiction, but many will claim it as truth. It would be hard on the mother if she could hear it. And the other gate?

Small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Matthew 7:14

May you find the small gate, remember one special mother, and honor the Son.

Take care and be God’s,

Chuck


Ciloa ... Encouraging one another as long as it is called Today!
Ciloa is a registered trademark of Ciloa, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
A Note of Encouragement is a copyright interest held by Ciloa, Inc.

Newborn's Conversation with God

Newborn's Conversation with God

A baby asked God,
"They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow,
but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?"

God said,"Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you."

The child further inquired, "But tell me, here in heaven I don't have to do anything but sing and smile to be happy."

God said,
"Your angel will sing for you and will also smile for you.
And you will feel your angel's love and be very happy."

Again the child asked,

"And how am I going to be able to understand when people talk to me if I don't know the language?"

God said,

"Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will teach you
how to speak."

"And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?"

God said,

"Your angel will place your hands together and will teach you how to pray."

"Who will protect me?"

God said,
"Your angel will defend you even if it means risking its life."

"But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore."

God said,

"Your angel will always talk to you about Me and will teach you the way to come back to Me, even though I will always be next to you."

At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from Earth could be heard and the child hurriedly asked, "God, if I am to leave now, please tell me my angel's name."

God said, "You will simply call her, "Mom."

Journey of Love

My Precious Mother God created you precious Mother In my eyes you'll never grow old Your smile is made from sunbeams Your heart is pure as gold. A life of hardship and sorrow So much pain and so much despair Yet He gave me someone so special Full of love beyond compare. You remind me of the flower you love Arranged in such lovely array Taking on the challenges of life As you go about your busy day. A Mother's heart brings forth so much hope As it does Mother's love Diligently fashioned by Angels Sent from Heaven above. When God created Mother's He gave you a special touch He knew you were one of a kind Mom, I love you very much. You are a unique Mother All my love is sent your way May God walk beside you This blessed Mother's Day. © Ginny Bryant Journey Of Love

In Honor of Mother..

This Sunday is Mother's Day. Many of You will spend it with Your Mother's sharing a special dinner or phone call or shopping or maybe just watching some TV or a movie. Many of us won't. Some of us will never see Our Mother's again until we see Heaven. I lost my Mom "Phyllis" July the 3rd, 1997. I miss her so much. This Poem is in Honor of Her and all the Mothers who have left us to early.Mothers Never Die~ They Just Keep House In the Sky.When we are children, we are happy and gay our mother is young and she laughs as we play. Then we grow up, she teaches us truth and lays foundation in the days of our youth. Then it is time for us to leave home but her teachings go with us wherever we roam; for all that she taught us and all that we did when we were so often just a "bad little kid". We will often remember and then realize that Mother is special and wonderfully wise. As she grows older, we look back with love knowing that Mothers are "Gifts From Above". And when she goes home to receive her reward, she will dwell in God's Kingdom and "Keep House For the Lord", where she'll light up the stars that shine through the night and keep all the moonbeams sparkling and bright. And then with the dawn she'll put the darkness away as she 'scours' the sun to new brilliance each day...And there in God's Kingdom, Mothers watch from above, to welcome their children with their undying love. So dry tears of sorrow, for mother's don't die they move in with God and "Keep house in the Sky".

"Be still," I hear Him softly say.
"Be still, lay all aside."
He who mad the universe stoops down,
and gathers up my cares.
"Be still," He chides again.
His work begins within my weary soul.
"Be patient. In quiet stay.
Listen to me."
Though pressed in every side,
I clear my heart and mind.
In timid voice and heart,
I lift to Him my praise.
How quiet, His presence.
How healing His words.
In hushed awe, I listen.
I savor each one.
My will He bends.
My heart, He sweeps clean.
My strength, He renews.
My soul, He fills to overflowing.
He teaches through His word.
I heed what He tells me.
I stand and give Him praise.
Together we go forth and serve.

Mercy Me Concert

Hi Friends,
We attended the Mercy Me concert tonight with Phil Wickham. It was Awesome! They really let go in the spirit and allowed God to use them to be a blessing. If they come to Your area, go and be blessed. In the slide are a few pictures from the concert all photo's are ©. I hope You enjoy them. I love the song playing on my profile so much that I'm posting the lyricks to it. Sometime's We don't have the words that we need to speak to God. Sometimes we find ourselves going through things that we just don't know what to say. Those are the times that we need to listen to what God is saying to us. God bless You..Yvonne



Lyricks I'm finding myself at a loss for words And the funny thing is it's okay The last thing I need is to be heard But to hear what You would say [CHORUS] Word of God speak Would You pour down like rain Washing my eyes to see Your majesty To be still and know That You're in this place Please let me stay and rest In Your holiness Word of God speak I'm finding myself in the midst of You Beyond the music, beyond the noise All that I need is to be with You And in the quiet hear Your voice [REPEAT CHORUS 2x] I'm finding myself at a loss for words And the funny thing is it's okay

God always answers prayer

I found this to be both enlightening and comforting. When the idea is not right God says, "No".
No~ when the idea is not the best.
No~ when the idea is absolutely wrong
No ~ When though it may help You, it will create problems for someone else.
When the time is not right, God says, "Slow."
What a catastrophe it would be if God answered every prayer at the snap of your fingers. Do you know that would happen? God would become your servant, not your master. Suddenly, God would be working for you instead of you working for God. Remember: God's delays are not God's denials. God's timing is perfect. Patience is what we need in prayer. When you are not right, God says, "Grow." The selfish person has to grow in unselfishness. The cautious person grow courage. The timid person must grow in confidence. The dominating person must grow in sensitivity. The critical person must grow in tolerance. The negative person must grow in positive attitudes. The pleasure~seeking person must grow in compassion for suffering people.
When everything is all right, God says, "Go." Then miracles happen: A hopeless alcoholic is set free! A drug addict finds release! A doubter becomes as a child in his belief. Diseased tissue responds to treatment, and healing begins. The door to your dream suddenly swings open and there stands God saying, "Go!"~Robert Schuller

If the Lord has you on hold... hold on! If the Lord has said "NO" to you... thank Him! If the Lords is molding your heart and mind... go with His change! If the Lord opens doors that you have asking Him to open... Praise Him! Be blessed wherever you are in your life today! God has His hands on the situation!


YOU SAY
GOD SAYS
BIBLE VERSES
You say: "It's impossible"
God says: All things are possible
(Luke 18:27)
You say: "I'm too tired"
God says: I will give you rest
(Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: "Nobody really loves me"
God says: I love you
(John 3:16 & John 3:34 )
You say: "I can't go on"
God says: My grace is sufficient
(II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: "I can't figure things out"
God says: I will direct your steps
(Proverbs 3:5-6)
You say: "I can't do it"
God says: You can do all things
(Philippians 4:13)
You say: "I'm not able"
God says: I am able
(II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: "It's not worth it"
God says: It will be worth it
(Roman 8:28 )
You say: "I can't forgive myself"
God says: I Forgive you
(I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage"
God says: I will supply all your needs
(Philippians 4:19)
You say: "I'm afraid"
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear
(II Timothy 1:7)
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated"
God says: Cast all your cares on ME
(I Peter 5:7)
You say: "I'm not smart enough"
God says: I give you wisdom
(I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: "I feel all alone"
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you
(Hebrews 13:5)

Tempted?

YUMMMMM....HOT! KRISPY KREME THE GREAT AMERICAN DIET (LOL) TEMPTATION IS NOT SIN, YIELDING TO IT IS Regard it all JOY, When you FACE various kinds of TEMPTATIONS; for you know that all the testing of your trust produces perserverence. But let perserverence do its complete work; so that you may be complete and whole, lacking nothing. How BLESSED is the man who perserveres through TEMPTATION! For after he has PASSED the TEST, he will recieve as his crown of LIFE which God has promised to those who loves HIM. No one being tempted should say," I am being tempted by God". For God can not be tempted by evil, and God Himself tempts No one. Rather, each person is being tempted whenever he is being dragged off and enticed by the bait of his OWN DESIRE. That having conceived, the DESIRE gives BIRTH to SIN; and when sin is FULLY GROWN, it gives birth to DEATH. DO not love the world or the things of the world, If someone loves the world, then love for the Father is not in him, because all the things of the world- the desires of the old nature, the desires of the eyes, and the pretentions of life- are not from the Father but from the world. And the world is passing away, along with its desires, But whoever does God's will remains forever. LET US FOLLOW JESUS' EXAMPLE .......WWJD? WALKING WITH JESUS DAILY (thank you M. Rose)

Portrait of a Friend

"Portrait of a Friend" I can't give solutions to all of life's problems, doubts, or fears. But I can listen to you, and together we will search for answers. I can't change your past with all it's heartache and pain, nor the future with its untold stories. But I can be there now when you need me to care. I can't keep your feet from stumbling. I can only offer my hand that you may grasp it and not fall. Your joys, triumphs, successes, and happiness are not mine; Yet I can share in your laughter. Your decisions in life are not mine to make, nor to judge; I can only support you, encourage you, and help you when you ask. I can't prevent you from falling away from friendship, from your values, from me. I can only pray for you, talk to you and wait for you. I can't give you boundaries which I have determined for you, But I can give you the room to change, room to grow, room to be yourself. I can't keep your heart from breaking and hurting, But I can cry with you and help you pick up the pieces and put them back in place. I can't tell you who you are. I can only love you and be your friend.--Unknown

Two women talking in heaven

Two women talking in Heaven 1st woman: Hi! My name is Wanda. 2nd woman: Hi! I'm Sylvia. How'd you die? 1st woman: I froze to death. 2nd woman: How horrible! 1st woman: It wasn't so bad. After I quit shaking from the cold, I began to get warm 'n sleepy, and finally died a peaceful death. What about you? 2nd woman: I died of a massive heart attack. I suspected that my husband was cheating, so I came home early to catch him in the act. But instead, I found him all by himself in the den watching TV. 1st woman: So, what happened? 2nd woman: I was so sure there was another woman there somewhere that I started running all over the house looking. I ran up into the attic and searched, and down into the basement. Then I went through every closet and checked under all the beds. I kept this up until I had looked everywhere, and finally I became so exhausted that I just keeled over with a heart attack and died. 1st woman: Too bad you didn't look in the freezer . . . . We'd both still be alive!!

R U a Bad Fish?

The kingdom of Heaven is a net thrown into the lake, that caught all kinds of fish. When it was full, the fishermen brought the net up onto the shore, sat down and collected all the good fish in baskets. But, threw the bad fish away. So it will be at the close of the age.
Matthew 13:47-49

I Believe..

Have a seat....relax...and read this slowly. It kind of sums it all up.......... I believe - That we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change. I believe - That no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that. I believe - That true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love. I believe - That you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life. I believe - That it's taking me a long time to become the person I want to be and that's O.K. I believe - That you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them. I believe - That you can keep going long after you think you can't. I believe - That we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel. I believe - That either you control your attitude or it controls you. I believe - That regardless of how hot and steamy a relationship is at first, the passion fades and there had better be something else to take its place. I believe - That heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences. I believe - That money is a lousy way of keeping score. I believe - That my best friend and I can do anything or nothing and have the best time. I believe - That sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down, will be the ones to help you get back up. I believe - That sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel. I believe - That just because someone doesn't love you the way you want them to doesn't mean they don't love you with all they have. I believe - That maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had and what you've learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you've celebrated. I believe - That it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others. Sometimes you have to learn to forgive yourself. I believe - That no matter how bad your heart is broken the world doesn't stop for your grief. I believe - That our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become. I believe - That just because two people argue, it doesn't mean they don't love each other. And just because they don't argue, it doesn't mean they do. I believe - That you shouldn't be so eager to find out a secret. It could change your life forever. I believe - That two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different. I believe - That your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don't even know you. I believe - That even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you - you will find the strength to help. I believe - That credentials on the wall do not make you a decent human being. I believe - That the people you care about most in life are taken from you too soon.

I believe that You should tell Your Friends and loved one just how much You love them, today.
God bless You,
Yvonne

The Body..

God has put the body together in such a way that he gives greater dignity to the parts that lack it. So that there will be no disagreements within the body, but that all the parts will be equally concerned for all the others. Thus if one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it; and if one part is honored, all the parts share its happiness. Now, you together constitute the body of Messiah, and individually you are parts of it. {I want to thank each of My Friend's here, and my Husband for the material that You send me. You give me such good ideas, You are my inspiration to share this blog. You are each special to me and are appreciated so much in my life. I am blessed by You. If You want to post here contact me and I'll add You so that You can do that. God bless You always}.

Who's behind the keyboard?

Do you remember sitting in a chat room, watching people chat, or even chatting yourself? Do you remember receiving so many forwards that your mailbox was ready to explode? How about receiving an e-mail from someone just searching for a friend. Did you wonder who these people might be that are behind the keyboard? Online we meet new people from all around the world. Some we chat with just once and then we go on. Others we chat with time and time again, and a friendship is made. Others become our e-mail buddies, and we look forward to their e-mails each day, but have you ever really wondered who was really behind the keyboard? So often we meet a friend in chat we stay up all night chatting, sometimes we laugh so hard we cannot type, other times we cry and our keyboards are stained from tears. We chat about our lives and help solve each others' problems, we lend a shoulder if we can. Did you ever think to yourself, who is really behind that keyboard? Did you ever chat with someone that promised you the world and that your friendship will be forever, and then they are gone? Do you forget about them and move on, or do you wonder "who was that person really, that was behind the keyboard? Have you ever hid behind your keyboard, pretending to be something you are not, just to boost your ego? As you sat there and typed have you ever lied, thinking "who cares, the person behind the keyboard, it is only a fake person?" Did you ever hurt someone thinking "it's only a game"?Well, behind each and every keyboard is very real people, some might be heartless cold people, not caring who they hurt, but then there are people that are caring, loyal, honest and all kinds of people hoping for some companionship online.Behind the keyboard can be someone who is seriously depressed and their only hope is to make a friend, maybe an aging person who once had a family, but now they live too far apart to see one another, perhaps there is someone that cannot walk anymore or a person so ill they are in the house forever. As we enter the world of the Internet we should remember, it is a very real world and behind each and every keyboard is a person who has a heart. No one has a life that is pain free, so as we go online whether in chat or just e-mailing, we must remember to treat each person the way the we want to be treated, to respect each others' feelings, and to offer friendship, because the truth is we really do not know who is behind the keyboard or what kind of hurt someone may be feeling. To be the best to others that you can be should be the "key" to a good, honest life. Love, Someone behind a keyboard. Thank Hollie.. God bless You

Jesus My Strength..

Jesus is the strength that beats within my Heart, T'is the beat of His unfailing love that sets me apart. Tho' darkness may beset me with fury and might, Nothing can extinguish the power of His eternal light. It burns with an everlasting flame of inner peace, That forever promises of freedom and release. Tho' the world may buffet me with relentless sorrow, I know my hand, my life, is in the gift of His tomorrow. Tho' I may stumble or fall, as weariness seems to flow, T'is when I am weakest, His presence within will surely grow. I can rise up each morning filled with this assurance, That His serenity will surround me in every circumstance. There is nothing that His steadfast love for me cannot prevail, For He loved with commitment, with each and every nail.I can definitely face each tomorrow without worry, without fear,Knowing my name was in His heart, as the Cross He did bear..." For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever , and his faithfulness continues to each generation." (Psalm 100:5 NLT)" The unfailing love of the Lord never ends!" (Lamentations 3:22 NLT)" The Lord has not stopped showing his kindness to the living and the dead." (Ruth 2:20 NIV)" The LORD is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation; He is my God, and I will praise Him." (Exodus 15:2 NKJV)" I will thank you, Lord with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name, O Most High." (Psalm 9:1-2 NLT)" The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger and great in his lovingkindness. The Lord is good to all, and his mercies are over all his works." (Psalm 145:8-9 NASB)" I pray that Christ will be more and more at home in your Hearts, living within you friends as you trust and keep your Faith in Him."" There is no fear in love, for perfect love casts out fear" (1 John 4:18)" Today I sense God filling me with a new joy."" My Faith removes limitations and replaces the fear of the future with the activity of Love."" If I ride the morning winds to the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me." (Psalm 139:9)" Lord, you have crowned us with glory and honor." (Psalm 8:5)" I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)" Courage fills my find and my Heart, for I know in truth that God is my rock, refuge, and my strength upon this life on earth."" Watch, stand fast in faith, be brave, be strong." (1 Corinthians 16:13)" I am brave, for God's power is greater than any situation I could possibly face today or tomorrow."" The bottom line in my life is Faith, not fear."" Through prayer, JESUS is changing me right now!"" Uphold my steps in Your paths, O Lord, that my footsteps may not slip." (Psalm 17:5)" I do not always understand what is happening in my life, but I can thank and praise God always for He is with me."" Let me see your kindness to me in the morning, for I am trusting you.Show me where to walk, for my prayer is sincere." (Psalm 143:8 LB)" May the Lord bless and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you; and be gracious to you, and give you His peace." (Numbers 6:24-26)" Peace fills my Heart and my mind for I know that God is with me!"" I am filled with the triumphant, Spirit of Jesus Christ."Jesus you are my song No sweeter name I know It is your name Your wondrous name that sets my Heart aglow I'll sing you in the morning All day and through the night You are the song I sing Jesus you are my guiding light ! Because He Loved Me." A short Prayer Lord, it is amazing that You love me so, even though I have done nothing to deserve your many blessings and grace. Thank You Lord that You see my ways and count all of my steps as I walk with you everyday. Thank You for your favor in my life. O Lord because of your everlasting loving kindness my life is better these days and my lips shall praise you. Thus I will bless You and bring you glory in all that I do and say. I wil lift my hands to you in worship and praise and sing you a song from my humble Heart always and forever in truth. I Love You Lord with all of my Heart, mind, and soul. You are my God of Love and my Heart is yours. In Jesus name I pray, Amen !!! God bless & take care ! Be Blessed, Yvonne

Overcome

When you're over come with grief and care, And your pain seems deeper than you can bear, You start through a tunnel of dark despair. You stumble and falter and fall to your knee.You cry out for someone to hear your plea. The tunnel seems endless, You cannot see. Then you turn to the Master, and light breaks through. The end is ahead, a beginning too.The length of the tunnel depends on you.~Author Unknown

We are Worthy

A well-known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20.00 bill. In the room of 200, he asked, "Who would like this $20 bill? "Hands started going up. He said, "I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first, let me do this. He proceeded to crumple up the $20 dollar bill. He then asked, "Who still wants it?"Still the hands were up in the air. Well, he replied, "What if I do this?" And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty."Now, who still wants it?"Still the hands went into the air. My friends, we have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth $20. Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value. Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still priceless to those who DO LOVE you. The worth of our lives comes not in what we do or who we know, but by WHO WE ARE and WHOSE WE ARE. You are special - Don't EVER forget it." Count your blessings, not your problems.

R U Judging?..

I was shocked, confused, bewildered as I entered Heaven's door, Not by the beauty of it all, Nor the lights or its decor. But it was the folks in Heaven who made me sputter and gasp--the thieves, the liars, the sinners, the alcoholics, the trash. There stood the kid from seventh grade Who swiped my lunch money twice. Next to him was my old neighbor Who never said anything nice. Herb, who I always thought was rotting away in hell, was sitting pretty on cloud nine, Looking incredibly well. I nudged Jesus, "What's the deal? I would love to hear Your take. How'd all these sinners get up here? God must've made a mistake."And why's everyone so quiet, so somber? Give me a clue." "Hush, child," said He, "they're all in shock. No one thought they'd be seeing you."Judge NOT!!........LaDonna thank you :o)

The Lords Prayer..breaking it down

THE LORDS PRAYER
Rather cleverly done. This is in two parts, The Prayer ( in blue type ) and GOD ( in red type) in response. It is very, very good.
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Our Father Who Art In Heaven. Yes? Don't interrupt me. I'm praying. But -- you called ME! Called you? No, I didn't call you. I'm praying. Our Father who art in Heaven. There -- you did it again! Did What? Called ME. You said,"Our Father who art in Heaven" Well, here I am.What's on your mind? But I didn't mean anything by it. I was, you know, just saying my prayers for the day. I always say the Lord's Prayer. It makes me feel good, kind of like fulfilling a duty. Well, all right. Go on. Okay, Hallowed be thy name . .Hold it right there. What do you mean by that? By what? By "Hallowed be thy name"? It means, it means . . good grief, I don't know what it means. How in the world should I know? It's just a part of the prayer.By the way, what does it mean? It means honored, holy, wonderful. Hey, that makes sense. I never thought about what 'hallowed' meant before.Thanks.Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Do you really mean that? Sure, why not? What are you doing about it? Doing? Why, nothing! , I guess. I just think it would be kind of neat if you got control, of everything down here like you have up there. We're kinda in a mess down here you know? Yes, I know; but, have I got control of you? Well, I go to church. That isn't what I asked you. What about your bad temper? You've really got a problem there, you know. And then there's the way you spend your money -- all on yourself. And what about the kind of books you read? Now hold on just a minute! Stop picking on me! I'm just as good as some of the rest of those people at church! Excuse ME. I thought you were praying for my will to be done.If that is to happen, it will have to start with the ones who are praying for it. Like you -- for example. Oh, all right. I guess I do have some hang-ups. Now that you mention it, I could probably name some others. So could I, I haven't thought about it very much until now, but I really would like to cut out some of those things. I would like to, you know, be really free. Good. Now we're getting somewhere. We'll work together -- You and ME. I'm proud of You. Look, Lord, if you don't mind, I need to finish up here. This is taking a lot longer than it usually does. Give us this day, our daily bread. You need to cut out the bread. You're overweight as it is. Hey, wait a minute! What is this? Here I was! doing my religious duty, and all of a sudden you break in and remind me of all my hang-ups. Praying is a dangerous thing. You just might get what you ask for. Remember, you called ME -- and here I am. It's too late to stop now. Keep praying. ( . . pause . . ) Well, go on. I'm scared to. Scared? Of what? I know what you'll say. Try ME. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. What about Ann? See? I knew it! I knew you would bring her up! Why, Lord, she's told lies about me, spread stories. She never paid back the money she owes me. I've sworn to get even with her! But -- your prayer --What about your prayer? I didn't -- mean it. Well, at least you're honest But, it's quite a load carrying around all that bitterness and resentment isn't it? Yes, but I'll feel better as soon as I get even with her. Boy, have I got some plans for her. She'll wish she had never been born. No, you won't feel any better.You'll feel worse. Revenge isn't sweet.You know how unhappy you are -- Well, I can change that. You can? How? Forgive Ann. Then, I'll forgive you; And the hate and the sin, will be Ann's problem -- not yours. You will have settled the problem as far as you are concerned. Oh, you know, you're right. You always are. And more than I want revenge, I want to be right with You . . (sigh). All right . all right . .I forgive her. There now! Wonderful! How do you feel? Hmmmm. Well, not bad.Not bad at all! In fact, I feel pretty great!You know, I don't think I'll go to bed uptight tonight. I haven't been getting much rest, you know. Yeah, I know. But, you're not through with your prayer are you? Go on. Oh, all right. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Good! Good! I'll do that. Just don't put yourself in a place where you can be tempted. What do you mean by that?You know what I mean. Yeah. I know. Okay. Go ahead. Finish your prayer. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen. Do you know what would bring me glory --What would really make me happy? No, but I'd like to know. I want to please you now. I've really made a mess of things. I want to truly follow you. I can see now how great that would be. So, tell me . . .How do I make you happy? YOU just did.