well.........

God has decided to add to our family! I missed my period yesterday and took a test this morning. The result was pregnant. I never miss my period. I'll take another one in the morning,then Monday I'm calling my CNM and going to schedule an appointment. We're both really excited! I am not terrified like I was with Daniel. We do have to get another vehicle now. Our truck will not be big enough. So be praying for us. I know God will supply our needs. He always has. We told our parents and they are excited, a little hesitant I think,but excited. We don't plan or not plan our children,God plans them. He knew this baby before he formed it in my womb,it says so in Jeremiah 1:5. God knows when to give us children,so we won't question Him. :-) If anyone has any advice on safe exercises,food,or anything else I'll take it! I'm already looking at names!


We are getting new cabinets this week starting Wednesday. I hate taking stuff out when I have it organized, so pray peace for us. We'll probably leave the house that day so Daniel will be able to nap, he won't if we stay here and they're beating and making noise. I'll be back later on. God Bless!

whew, it's been a looong week!

It feels like this week had lasted forever for some reason. Daniel turned 1 on Monday and it was so hard to believe in some ways,but not in others. He is so grown up acting and independent for the most part. Mike had to work Monday so the party was Thursday,but I looked at the schedule wrong and he was working that day too. It all worked out though. Our vacuum cleaner broke again. Our maintenance man told Mike how to fix it,but he didn't get it fixed. We'll just have to get another I guess. It has been nice weather and Thursday it got cooler. I love this time of the year,I love cold weather!

The party went great! We got cleaned up for it and everything was ready when the families got here. All were present except my Daddy and brother-in-law,they were sick. I baked cupcakes with the confetti mix and decorated them with blue icing,red sprinkles,and green sprinkles. They were cute! I got decorating tips to decorate with. I really enjoy baking and such. I had a blast during Christmas doing all the candy and pies! We had chips,dip,cookies,and drinks. Our apartment is pretty small when you pack almost 20 people in it haha The kids had fun,including Daniel. Mike's brother has 2 girls and my brother has 2 girls,the same ages. So they paired up and played. Landon just played with everyone and Daniel was squealing with delight! The adults mingled and chatted. Our family friend Brian was here too. Well, it's Mike's best friend. Actually, I used to date him haha We dated off and on for 2 years and I just knew that was my husband,funny how God works huh? Well, we're very close to his family. Amy the woman I have wrote about previously is his younger sister. Anyways. He fits right in! We didn't get Daniel anything for his birthday,just 2 shirts. He really didn't need any toys and I found these clothes back in November on sale. I don't really want him to think just because we are celebrating his birthday it means he has to receive presents. My parents didn't have to money for a gift,but she got something anyways. They got him a nice,thick jacket for next year. Mike's family got him a rocking horse (he LOVES horses dearly),a few shirts,and some pajama's. He also got some books,a Sheriff gun and badge,and a Playskool Swing 'n Score baseball. So it wasn't that much and I was glad. It was so nice having our families here! I love to have people over,but with the drive and all, we don't get many visitors. Mike said he was proud of me for planning Daniel's first party. Wow, I mean I am a Mom. I have a 1 year old son. I just never thought I would,not this soon. I'll be 26 February 20th and got married when I was 23. It's like sometimes I'm living on the outside looking in. It's really neat. Children are not a burden,but a blessing. Yes, there are very challenging,hectic,hard,and bad days,but isn't that with everything? Without struggle we don't grow, is what I believe and from experience I know. I feel sorry for those couples who do not want children,what a blessing they are missing. It's so neat to watch Daniel grow and learn. I never paid attention in detail to Tabitha and Marley while they were his age,but I notice everything with him. He can do something a hundred times and I still swoon and say 'Look baby, look what he's doing!' Mike says 'I know baby, he's been doing it.' He truly has won my heart. Between him and his Daddy I don't know if there is anymore to give out. ;-D

We have done so well budgeting so far. I am really proud of us for listening to God and disciplining ourselves. We cut our power bill,tithe,and paid the phone bill. We were able to give the money we wanted for the missionary couple and VOM. It feels good to budget and stay in order. We were wanting to give out,but were not being a good steward of what He was giving us. We realized if we didn't get a hold on it,then He would not give us more to be a steward of. We also put back the amount for our family savings. I think $6 every check will be good to start off. We are also putting back a $1 every day for Daniel,so when he turns 18 he will have some money to either get married with,start in ministry with,or college with. Mike makes good money,well enough for us to live on. For starters, we don't live outside of our means. We drive a '97 Ford F150 and live in a 2 bedroom apartment, that really isn't modern in it's decorating and appliances. God has blessed us here though. We get free rent; We got a brand new fridge last January or February; We are getting new cabinets and granite counter tops in the kitchen,bathroom,and vanity area next week; We also don't wear name brand clothes,unless they are on sale. I love name brand clothes,but I'm not paying $30 for a shirt or $50 for a purse. The scripture is true when it says in Matthew 6:21 "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." Is it bad to have nice things? Nope,but if it is causing you to not be a good steward of the money God has given you, then you should rethink how you are spending it. It is His money in the first place,we are only borrowing it. So we are setting out to try and give more to others and live comfortably,but not beyond our means. I never want to have to work outside of the home because of our spending. I never want Mike to have to work 2 jobs because our spending. So we'll sacrifice somethings,but really it's not a sacrifice for us that much.

Oh the True Woman study I'm doing through email is amazing! I got behind yesterday because I was so busy. So I have to listen to Day 8 & 9 tonight. I am really learning new things and seeing where change needs to take place. I want to be the woman God wants me to be,the wife God wants me to be,and the mother God wants me to be. I cannot be those apart from Him though. I encourage anyone that wants to be a Biblical,submissive wife more than you are or aren't now,to try this study. Well, I should be going. Daniel has been playing with his toys and squealing,but it's close to his bedtime and mine too. The post about my Daddy is before this one,so please check it out.

Update on Daddy

It's been a long week at our home,but not in a bad way. First, I'll update on my Daddy. I took them to the doctor this morning and it was so cold,still is. It didn't take long to get back and see Dr. Faggard. The people at this hospital were so nice too,unlike the one where I had Daniel at. Wow, I'm seriously contemplating using that place maybe next time. The nurse asked him some questions and then we waited for Dr. Faggard. My parents are so funny. They're just so country. It's a good thing I went with them. Dr. Faggard asked some questions and examed his right hand. He said the symptoms sound like Psoriatic Arthritis. I did not know psoriasis could cause arthritis. He told him that they would take some blood and have him back in 2 weeks. Daddy is in pain,but he didn't give him anything for it. I'm not sure if there is anything,well I just read about one and I will not let him take that mess. I'm going to try and find some sort of natural/herb medicine. That would be much better for him. If anyone has any info please share it with me. He will go back February 16 at 4:00 pm. It's been going on for 8 months and he's worked maybe a month out of the 8 months. They are living off of my Mama's income,which isn't much. Thankfully, we are getting on our feet and we are going to help them,if my Daddy will let us. He does carpentry work and his shoulders may be bothering him because of that. He's always done hard,manual labor. Thank ya'll for praying and please continue.

I'll keep everyone updated and will try to write about the party later tonight or tomorrow. I am sorry for the lack of me at everyone's blog,it's been a busy week! I've missed fellowshipping though!

Prayer Request!

Ladies, I have a prayer request. I thought I posted it last night,but I forgot.

My Daddy has been having a lot of trouble with his hand/wrist since the summer of '08. He went to a specialist today in Lucedale. Well, that doctor sent him to Mobile this afternoon for a nerve testing. Well, they checked them in and all,but for some reason the testing doctors were not notified. They sit there for an hour and a half. He has another appointment with a different place Friday at 9. I am gonna try to get them to stay with us Thursday night and let Mike keep Daniel while I take them there. He was not happy today when they got there and waited that long. Soooo the appoinment with that place will be next Wednesday. Mama can't take off too many times or she'll get fired. Wal-Mart is so ridiculous.

It will hurt so bad and swell. Most nights he's not slept. He has to sit a certian position and it'll be fine for a few hours. It's had him out of work since August or September. They're making it on my Mom's meager pay from Wal-Mart. Thankfully, their church gave them a $2,000 dollar check around Christmas and they paid bills. We've not been able to help much,but my sister and her husband have. Pray God will heal Him somehow,someway. We've been praying for a supernatural healing,but I don't guess that's the way He wants to do it. Which is fine,He can use doctors too.

He cut the tip of one his fingers off while working one day and instead of going to the doctor he just wrapped it with black electrical tape,not smart. So they believe it has something to do with his nerves. They don't know why it swells though,it will be huge! I'd appreciate your prayers. Thank you! I'll keep you updated.

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5

Daniel is 1 today!!!

This was my precious baby boy the day after he was born,January 26,2008.











This is my happy toddler now January 26,2009.





Wow, time sure does fly. I can remember when we first found out we were pregnant with a baby. I was scared slap out of my mind. I got over it and enjoyed the pregnancy. We were waiting for Daniel to arrive an he was 6 days past the date the hospital gave me. My due date by the ultrasound was January 20. I went into labor on January 24 and had him on January 26. Click here to read his birth story. It's been a wonderful year with Daniel. At times I thought I would loose my mind,but I made it. I'm so grateful for my little boy. He's a toddler now. It's unreal. Oh God is so good to me. I would do anything for Daniel Paul. He's such a special little boy and an awesome call is evident for his life. So happy birthday Daniel Paul! I love you!!

Our Trip To Laurel & then some

This was at the park Monday. A lady offered to take a family photo of all 3 of us.









At SBC in Robyn's office

We played some basketball,Daniel had fun!

Aunt Heather and Daniel.

Gee, I'm a little guy.

Look Ma,what I can do!

Happy about all the new things he could find.

We had a wonderful trip to Laurel. I spent 3 years of my life there and miss it dearly. I wanted to visit the college (Southeastern Baptist College) I graduated from and it so happen that my SIL,Robyn, works there. So we headed out early for a 2 -3 hour trip. Daniel was in a pretty good mood,just doesn't like his car seat ever. I really haven't found any solution to this either. Any tips? We made it to Laurel a little before 11. Ah it felt great to be in that town again,though it's not the same town it once was. They say crime has overtaken it. Glad I'm not there now. Anyhow. Class was in when we made it there,can you believe I forgot the times of the classes?! Wow, I thought I never would. Robyn was so happy to see us and Heather,well she was still primping at Rob's place on campus. Girls, ;-). I went to get my camera out of the truck and stop back by the student center. David R. was in there and was shocked to see me. The campus is very small and everyone knew/knows everyone. I just loved that aspect of college. One of my old teachers was teaching her class and I was ready to see her. Mrs. Windham taught me Western Civ. I&II and .... Snap, I forgot the name of the history class. It was something like World History or American History,shoot! Anyhow,she was super hard and the queen of LONG notes. After her class was out, I went in the hallway and called her by name. I could not believe that she did not know who I was. Have I changed that much?! I mean I know I'm not the 118 lb,size 4 wearing,tan young woman I was,but come on! I had to tell her I was Heather Fryfogle (maiden name). She then knew who I was and was very happy to see me. I introduced her to Daniel and Mike. She kept saying how cute he was,Daniel of course. ;-) Lee was surprised to see me too! Oh he used to be SO mean to me,in a joking way of course. Dale and Lee were like big brothers to Rob and I. He has been activated again,just got back from Iraq last year,so he was in uniform. I met some of the new students,which was nice. I also got to see Trey. He is married with 3 step-children and 2 of his own. He did not recognize me either. ha! Oh and Rick, boy has he changed. Suit wear,Southern Gospel music lover. Wow. He used to wear the name Rick the rapper and he did rap. Wow, Bro. Coy has changed him all around. For the good, I suppose. He got married last month too and I met his wife. Poor girl hehe.. She's so quiet. I wonder how long she'll make it at SBC,where debates are daily and well the joke is always on you.

We decided to go to Ryan's for lunch. Just like old times,geez. I miss that part of life. I am so glad I had a wonderful college experience. The only person who came along was Lee. The others went to one of the 6 Chinese places to eat. Daniel was so tired by then,so on the way back to the campus he went to sleep. Mike took him up to Robyn's apartment and I went back to her office with her. It was nice to just be there again. I saw Dr. Parker,Dean of Academics,that man has not changed a bit. He's still funny,but at times so overbearing. Glad I am done with his class,which was hard too. Once Daniel woke up, we took him to the gym. Oh the memories in that place. We used to shoot hoops during breaks or after class or if we skipped class. Did I just say that? ;-) Daniel had fun,except there was NOTHING he could tear up. I thought it was quiet hilarious. We hung out the rest of the afternoon in Robyn's office,just chatting. Her place is the hang out,dude. We used to have so much fun there. None of the gals we went to school with are back. Claire still lives on campus though,that goofball. I did find out some news I didn't want to hear. Dale and his wife are no longer in the ministry. I just pray God uses them where they are. Enna and her husband are going through a divorce also,which saddens me. She was one of the girls we were really close too. She got into a situation that truly wasn't her fault and got pregnant,then married the father. I miss that girl. So be in prayer for those both please. I got to see Ms. Sandy,Mrs. Ginny,and Dr. Savell(the Dean). I finally got to see Bro. Joey. He taught most of my classes. He was happy to see us. It was so strange to be back their married with a baby. Wow. That's a place God used to mold me and shape me for what He had in store for me. I can't ever go through college again,or that college,but I have plenty of memories.

Mike's been working since Wednesday and he's on afternoon/night shift. Daniel is growing and walking great! He walks mostly and crawls if he falls and is running from me or Mike while playing. He'll be one on Monday!! Today a year ago is when I went into labor with Daniel. Awww.... I can't believe it! I'm having a family party for him on Thursday,so pray it all goes smooth. It'll only be our parents,siblings,and a few family friends. He's got another tooth on the bottom,so that makes 7 total. He isn't getting affectionate,as I hoped he would. He will give me sugar sometimes and cuddle with me. It's like when he knows he's doing that though, he stops immediately. Is that the man coming out in him? ;-) Some days I want to pull my hair out and others it's a piece of cake. I do have to say it is getting easier in general. I'm SO used to a routine or schedule. He is beginning to get on a constant one. It's rather nice. He plays peek-a-boo now all the time,it's so cute! He gets really excited too and just falls over in laughter. He's got the funniest personality for a baby really. He loves my hair. Oh my. He'll just chew on it,roll in it, or cling to it when he is asleep. He loves any hair,whether a stuffed animal or another person's. I just love his eyes,they're so big and so blue. He will drink from a sippy some,but still is adjusting. He'll drink water from it,so I'm happy. If I do something to him like make a sound or do something with his toys, he will pick whatever it is up and give it to me,as if to say 'Here do it again.' It's really cute. Oh and I have to share this. I wrote in an earlier post how I was trying to teach him to stack his blocks instead of destroy them. Well, tonight he stacked some of them and then took some down! I was so happy!! He really does listen or pay attention to what I am trying to show him. Sometimes I do wonder. He is over the cold again! I used the herbal medicine along with putting Vick's Vapor rub on the soles of his feet during naps,try that if you haven't it works great! Hopefully, it'll stay away,but the weather here is crazy! Last week it was in the 20's,this week it will be in the 70's. Oh we got a converter box for the t.v. too. It's nice. We can pick up our local channels and a few extras. The extras include: TBN,The Church Channel,JCTV,Smile of a Child,and a Local Doppler channel. I'm very excited about the Christian stations. The Smile of a Child is wonderful! It's Christian cartoons or puppet-like shows. I love getting to here preaching or watching various things on TBN and TCC. I do wish we had the Weather Channel and Gospel Music Channel,but for now these will do. I guess I need to go on to bed. Mike is working overtime and I'm tired. Oh and I have a prayer request: My Daddy. He's going to a specialist about his hand/wrist Monday. He's been having a lot of trouble with it since the summer of '08 and hasn't worked a lot because of it,leaving them to one very small income. Pray God gives the doctors the wisdom to find out what is wrong. We've been praying for a healing,but God hasn't granted our request yet. He can use a doctor too I know. Thank you! God bless and have a wonderful week!

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”- Philippians 4:8

Proverbs 31 Woman

Joyce @ Joyfull Living posted the True Woman website on her blog a few days ago. I decided to check it out and I'm glad I did. I took up the True Woman 30 Day Make-Over. So far it's amazing! I've never read anything by Nancy Leigh DeMoss this is my first time and I highly recommend her. She challenged us to read Proverbs 31 for the next 31 days and write down things God gives us or how we interpret scripture. So I'm going to share what I wrote from yesterday and today,along with somethings Nancy shared.

Day One:

26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Proverbs 31:26-27

These are my 2 favorite verses out of Proverbs 31. These 2 verses can sum up what we, as women, should look and act like. We cannot do all the things listed in Proverbs 31 all the time. Though,we can speak with wisdom and kindness daily. We can also take care of our household,which is our family. Is says not to eat the bread of idleness. I know this does not mean taking a break during the day. More less, I would interpret it to mean, not just sitting down all the time when there are things to do. Like cleaning your home,spending time with your family,or even helping someone else. If anyone has more thoughts on that part,please share with me. I would love to hear them!

Nancy said that the heart of the chapter is the woman's heart,not in all she does. She does all these things because her heart is full of God. We aren't to get caught up in the doing and our character become hideous. God is far more worried about our attitude, than our works. Doing things for the Lord is wonderful,but we can get so busy like Martha and let our heart grow apart from the Lord. All this woman was doing can be summed up like this: Taking care of her househould and being a servant.

Day Two:

28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

What example are you giving your children? Will they do what verse 28 says? How we live our life in not only important for on-lookers,but for our children also. We are an example to our sons of what a wife should look like and an example to our daughters of what a wife should act like. Our sons look to us and search for a wife. He'll more than likely choose someone similar to you. I pray I set an example for Daniel that can be Godly and virtious. Our daughters watch us to see how she should treat her husband and children,also others around her. She also looks to us to see how she should keep the home,even if she does have a job outside of the home. We are not only examples to other women,but most importantly to our children.

Those were my thoughts. I feel imtimidated sometimes because my writings are so simple compared to most of you ladies. I just write improptu,sometimes write it out before hand if I'm studying. I hope you got something from this.

Now here are some thoughts from Nancy:

Proverbs 31 is a description of womanhood.- DeMoss

Three keys points about the Proverbs 31 woman:

1. She fears the Lord
2. She is a lover
3. She has a servant's heart

I really like the 3 things she pointed out. That, to me, is the outline of Proverbs 31. We may not be able to do everything that is written in those passages,but we can surely do the 3 things above.

I encourage you to check out the website. It's been so wonderful for me! God Bless!

Thankful Thursday-Freedom

Today Iris is out,but Lori @ Lori's Reflections is our host.

If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. - John 8:36

Today, I'm thankful for my freedom in Christ. No matter what someone wants to make law or pass, I am not bound by the law. I am free in Christ. No one can take my freedom in Christ away. That's something I, too often, take fore granted. So many people are not free in the Spirit and there are so many people in other countries are free in Spirit,yet are bound physically by government. Thank You, Lord for the freedom that you died to give me.

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. - Romans 8:2

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. - Galatians 5:1

Some food for thought

The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him. - Nahum 1:7

A have a calender from David Wilkerson's ministry and each day it has a verse to look up. The above verse was yesterday's scripture. How fitting. I do believe we face much trouble ahead and the Lord is my strong hold.

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:
And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. -I John 5:14-15

This was today's verse. It was encouraging. What do we know is according to God's will? If it's holy,pure,and righteous. Many times I have to stop myself in my prayers and say, Lord, I want this,but let Your will be done in the situation. Oh boy, I didn't use to pray that. It's so reassuring to know that what we ask of the Lord, He will do if it's according to His will. Isn't it good to know you don't have to know the future? I would mess things up everyday if I were the one making the calls and not depending on the Lord.

These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him:
A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,
An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,
A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.
My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:
Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck.
When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee.
For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:
Proverbs 6:16-23

I put in bold the part that talks about shedding innocent blood. That doesn't just mean abortion either,but it doesn't mean the death penalty either. I haven't ever been able to explain to people why I do believe in the death penalty. Well, I can now. The Bible says nothing about shedding guilty blood. I do want to highlight abortion though. This nation has killed so many babies in the womb. I was so happy when President Bush passed the ban on partial birth abortion. I will be so saddened if President Obama ( I still shudder when I say that,sorry I do) passed the Freedom of Choice Act(FOCA) that would overturn anything pro-life. I pray he doesn't,not only for the innocent babies,but for his own good. Oh the horror.

Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.
Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.
Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.
Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.
Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God;
And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.
Colossians 3:18-25

If everyone would abide by this,our country would be a better place. Sadly, everyone doesn't,even Christians.

Our trip was great!! I'll write about it later. I'm going to start our supper.

late night

It's late and I'm still up. I hate going to bed before Mike gets home. We went to eat with his family this afternoon (first time his whole immediate family have came over here at once) at Logan's Roadhouse. We had a good time. Daniel was still sleepy,so he wasn't the happiest. He ate a little bit,but just wanted me to hold him. He's so sweet! They all wanted to go to the mall,so we ventured there and didn't realize it closed in 15 minutes. Oh well, it was fun anyways! We decided to go to Super Target instead. Mike had been on the clock before we got to Logan's,so he wasn't with us. Daniel had so much fun though! Pawpaw carried him around and they had a lot of fun. Uncle Jamie even bought him a pair of tennis shoes that he's been lacking. I am not young like I used to be. Boy, I was ready to get home,just after an hour in there. ha! I am so glad I like to be around my in-laws. We have a lot of fun together. I'm very blessed.

After Daniel went to sleep, I folded up his clothes and decided to clean his closet out. He had a good bit of stuff he couldn't wear anymore,so I put it away.

I won't be around the next 2 days. Tuesday we are going to Laurel,MS to my old college. It should be fun! I'll get to see my old teachers and some old students. My SIL,Robyn works there and we'll visit her too. It's the main reason we are going up there. It'll be a pretty long trip for Daniel, 2 1/2-3 hours. So pray for our travel!

Something to chew on

9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:

Colossians 1:9-12


I read this passage yesterday. Then I read something that Charles Stanley wrote concerning it. I wanted to share it.

In seven requests Paul covers every area of our lives that needs the daily touch of God:

1. May we be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding(v.9). Ask God to fill you with the spiritual understanding you need as you walk in His will and study His Word.


2. May we walk in a manner worthy of the Lord Jesus Christ (v.10). Jesus lived a blameless life, exactly what we should pursue.


3. May we please God in all respects (v.10). Paul encourages believers to live a life pleasing to God and to excel in their Christian walk.


4. May we bear fruit in every good work (v. 10). We prove we are Jesus' disciples when we bear fruit.
   
5. May we increasingly grow in the knowledge of God (v.10). We should ask for more and more knowledge from His tremendous resources.


6. May we be strengthened with all might,according to His glorious power (v.11). Ask God to strengthen you to do His will for His glory- and He will do it.


7. May our lives express joyous thanks to the Father for His grace to us (v. 12). Our love for Him should run so deep that we can't help but give glory and honor to Him.
   

I thought this was very helpful. I love anything just about from Charles Stanley. This morning I woke up earlier than Daniel finally! The last few nights he's not been sleeping good,which causes me not to sleep good. So I haven't been getting up earlier than him,but last night he slept good. Thank You,Lord! I was so happy! So I got up earlier than him,but not as early as I wanted. I did get to do my study first thing and pray for the day and various things. It felt so refreshing and wonderful! I've been doing it during his nap,but really want to do it in the mornings. So I am hoping I can start doing it then,if not I will during his naps. I started reading at Galatians a few weeks ago and now I'm in Colossians. I'm going to share some more from that book.

13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood,[c] the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 13-14

21 And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled 22 in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight— 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister. - Colossians 1:21-23

We are to live above reproach,I've always heard that preached. I just never knew it was in the scriptures.

6 As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, 7 rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it[a] with thanksgiving. - Colossians 2:6-7

I love these verses! After we receive Christ we are to be rooted and built up in him. We start as small seeds and are go grow as olive trees as the scriptures says many times.

16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ,[a] for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.”[b] - Romans 1:16-17

I also love these verses. In the past, I said I wasn't ashamed of the Gospel,but did I share it? Not all the time,therefore I was ashamed. The Gospel is the only thing that will lead you to salvation. No. Other. Way. So many are led astray,even in our Christian world. Verse 17, is a particular favorite. If we don't have to live by faith,what do we live for? If we know how everything will turn out,then we don't need faith. Faith is what keeps us going. Knowing that someone else knows what the future holds. So have faith. It is said so much today,but the meaning is very deep.

Here is something else from Charles Stanley:

The Spirit-filled life is a life of faith. It started by faith and it runs on faith. It is faith from start to finish.

Then we believed that Jesus saved us from the guilt of sin; now we must believe that He saves us from the power of sin. Then we trusted Him for forgiveness and it became ours; now we must trust Him for righteousness and it shall become ours also. Then we took Him as a Savior from the penalties of our sins; now we must take Him as a Savior from the bondage of our sins. Then He lifted up out of the pit; now He seats us in heavenly places with Himself.

Have a wonderful Sunday!

The story of Christianah

I just read a very disturbing story. I have heard about it on the radio,but reading it was worse. A Christian teacher named, Christianah Oluwasein worked at a government run school in the Northern part of Nigeria,Africa. Before giving a final exam to her class of girls, she took up book bags so there could be no cheating. This upset one girl to the point of tears,then rage. She was upset because the teacher had "desecrated" the Quran that was inside of her bag, by touching the bag. The whole class became outraged. They started shouting "Allahu Akbar" meaning God is great. Another teacher got Christianah out of the classroom and took her to the Principal's office. Soon Radical Muslims nearby heard the outrage and came to see what was going on. They were told what Christianah had "done". So they dragged Christianah out of the school,clubbed her to death,and set her body on fire. She left behind a husband,Femi,and 2 children,a son and daughter. I was saddened and angered by this. Her husband spoke with VOM and told them it was very hard,but he still had his children.

This just shook me. She wasn't witnessing to anyone. She wasn't trying to win anyone over to Christ. She simply was being a teacher and for that she was murdered. Wow. I am holding my tongue.

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. - II Corinthians 12:9

When I read the stories of the persecuted Christians, I think of this verse. Wow. I know most of them know it by heart. They live by it. Lord, forgive me when I complain of my problems. He cares about my problems too,I know,but I do not have it as bad as some do. I think Americans should really realize that sometimes. I mean, we aren't having to die for our faith,that is yet.

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: - I Peter 4:12

I think of this verse too. I cannot imagine going through what some of these people go through. Your house being burned,you or your family being beaten or even killed,simply because you are a Christian. Wow. I cannot empathize with them,but I can sympathize.

If you would like to know more about persecuted Christians go to Voice of Martyrs and to write a letter to the imprisoned go to Prisoner Alert.

Blessings!

feeling defeated

I'm feeling defeated right now. I'm not sure why. All last year, I let little things defeat me. The smallest thing gets me irritated or defeated. I just don't know why. I have tried and asked the Lord to help me stay calm and cool. I don't want to feel defeated or live defeated. I have all the riches through Christ Jesus and I want to live victorious. *sighs* I just need your prayers.

As I was reading my daily verse it was one that I definitely needed. He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. Proverbs 16:32 Thank You,Lord I needed that. I tend to get angry easy. If something doesn't work at first time I get angry. I've always been this way,but my fuse is shorter for some reason now. I'm adding this to my wall with verses taped on it. It's all a part of dying to self. Geeze, who likes to do that? No one really. But like I read in another post we have too.

I have the Charles Stanley Life Principles Bible and love it! Mike got it for me on Mother's Day last year. Here is something that caught my eye in some of the commentary of it. His purpose in allowing a delay to meet your need is to strengthen your faith and reliance on Him, and consequently to wean you of your self-sufficiency.- Charles Stanley. God doesn't delay because He likes to see us in pain,but because He wants us to trust Him more. He wants our faith strong in Him. Ah, Father. Why am I so small minded? We learned through the pregnancy God wants us to just trust Him,with whatever comes our way. It's so hard sometimes,but it's so worth it. Something else I am learning or actually practicing is: God wants to intervene daily and show His mighty power to us. Even if it's small things that don't work out for us. He wants us to ask for His help. He wants things to work for us,not against us. Before I got married or really had Daniel things went smoothly. I mean, when I lived my parents I had no one to think about,but myself. Once I got married I added another person to that,but he could do things for himself. Now, I've got Daniel and well I do everything for him,just about. So now I am learning that when things don't go as planned,God wants me to call on Him. It doesn't have to be some life-threatening ordeal. It can be as simple as I am very tired and worn out,please help Daniel to ease off to sleep. And He does it. In a way, I thought I had a lot figured out,but I didn't ha! How prideful of me! God is teaching me for sure now. I'm willing to let Him because I need Him every day,every minute,every second.

Being a Mother is so rewarding. I love Daniel Paul so much! Goodness, I really can't imagine life without him. I cannot believe he is almost a year old. He is so playful and fun! He's not really affectionate. I thought he would be,since he loved to be held when he was a small infant. It's rare that he lays his head on your shoulder or cuddles up to you in bed. When he does, I treasure the moments! This morning he started crying,so I pulled him to me and he went right back to sleep. It was so sweet! He even snores some hehe.. He likes to play peek a boo now all the time. It's so cute! He is walking too! He started taking steps a few days before Christmas and now he's hardly ever crawling. Wow,times flies! I just can't believe it! He is so smart too! I'll repeat a word to him and point to the object. He stores it away because a few days later I'll say truck and he'll point to it or go get it. hehe.. I love it! He knows what ball,truck,tree,drink,dada,mama,blocks,and duck are so far. He is pretty destructive when playing haha I'll stack the blocks and he'll knock them down. I try to show him how to take them down one at a time,but he insists on knocking them over. He loves music too. It's so awesome! Sometimes he'll try to sing along with music on t.v. Mike calls him our lil' worship leader. When he wakes up from a nap, I go in the room and he reaches out for me. He'll rest his head on my shoulder for a few minutes,then pop up smiling. He's got the best smile in the world! He loves his Daddy. Mike and him rough house and play. He likes to sit on Daddy's shoulders. He's a Mama's boy at heart though. He loves other kids too! He gets SO excited around babies or older kids. Now that he can walk, he'll be following them around. He loves to eat bread,like I did when I was younger. He'll eat somethings when we eat and some baby food still. He just loves bread and chicken. Do I want more? Yes. When? Whenever God sees fit. I never imagined a baby would love me like Daniel does. A baby's love can melt a heart of stone.

Here are some verses from my reading today:

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. Philippians 4:11-12

Thankful Thursday-Nothing Is Impossible

I love the verse that Iris @ Grace Alone posted for Thankful Thursday. "And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible." Mark 10:27 Iris will be trying her hand at photography,so Lori @ Lori's Reflections will be hosting Thankful Thursday the next 2 weeks.

Thinking about possibilities is exciting! A whole new year has begun. A time to start something new. My husband and I set some goals for ourselves this year. We haven't ever done this and he is the one who started the conversation. I was very shocked. He isn't a "planner" and doesn't write things down. We have pretty much the perfect set up,money-wise. We stay at our apartment free of charge,have a phone bill,power bill,truck insurance,cell phone bills,and the groceries. We should already have plenty of money put back,but we don't. So we discussed things and wrote down some goals. Mind you,they're small,but it's better to start off small,than big sometimes. I want to share them with ya'll. This is a new year for us,a year for endless possibilities,a year to give what God has given us.

So here are our goals:

• Pay tithes and bills first
• Reduce grocery bill
• Take $50 out of account a piece for our "spending
• Give money to Voice of the Martyr's
• Give money to Lance and Brenda(missionaries)
• Put $5 a check in money jar
• Put money in my account once a month
• Pay cash for anything we can and only write checks if have too
• Eat out 3 times a month
• Eat fast food only is necessary(when we travel to see family)
• Get a Bible study for us to do regularly
• Make only 5 trips a month to our hometown

These are somethings we need to do and have to do. We have the amount we'll give to the ministries,but wasn't going to share that. We want to have a good bit in savings by the end of the year. We are planning a trip out to Texas to see Aunt Melinda and Richard(family friends) between July-October. We want to have money for that also. It felt good to hear Mike suggest most of these things. He just doesn't do these type of things. I hate to continue to suggest things and we never get them done. I know it was God working through him. I know we can do these things and continue to add more to the list. This is another verse I love: "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13

I am thankful for the peace of God. This year has already been shocking,discouraging,and upsetting to say the least. But God has given me peace through the deaths and other situations. -Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Romans 15:13

I am thankful for the Word of God. We normally run to the Word when we are in hard times,but thankfully I'm learning to run to it in good ones too. We need God everyday,not just on bad ones. Keeping a close relationship with Jesus daily, helps to lessen our "bad" days attitude wise.- The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever. Isaiah 40:8

I'm thankful for God's comfort. When no one else seems to understand you, God does. When no one else understands how you feel, God does. I didn't have a clue how my cousins were feeling about loosing their Daddy,but God did and He comforted them. - And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; John 14:16

I'm thankful for my life. I'm living my dream in many ways. I have a wonderful husband and son. I have a wonderful home. I have a wonderful church to attend.

I'm thankful for family. It was great seeing my family,though the circumstances weren't great. We are such a close,loving family. We've just all got children and "lives" now.

Have a blessed Thursday! Don't forget to visit Iris @ Grace Alone.

yet,another death

Mike's Granny passed yesterday afternoon. It was his Daddy's Mom. So remember the family. We'll be going down on Tuesday for the funeral. This new year has been really rocky and just blah so far in some aspects. Uncle Raymond's funeral went well. Just about all of the nieces and nephews were there,all his siblings were. It was nice seeing my family. His children are doing okay,it's just hard. Amy and the boys are still in MO. We sent the boys some warm jackets,since she left with sort of a scattered brain. They should get them at the first of the week and it's a good thing since the weather is extremely cold. We've been enjoying off days since Friday. He's got 2 left. Our nieces b-day is Tuesday and my brother's is Wednesday. It sorta of stinks being so far away during holidays,birthdays,and times of loss. I know God knows best though. I'll be back sometime this week. Love you all!

passing through

Uncle Raymond passed away this morning. Be praying for the family. Christy is holding up best. Stanley and Kathy are more upset. He went peacefully they said. Mike,Daniel,and I went back up there last night for a good bit. Daniel had them all laughing and was cutting up. It was good for them I think. Daniel and I made it there this morning right after he passed. The funeral will probably be Friday and Mike will take off. It's good to see all my family again,just wish it wasn't under these circumstances. Gosh, I miss them. I miss our huge family gatherings. Maybe this will spark something and we'll do one soon. There are like 35 grandkids and I don't even know how many great grandkids. It's a huge family! Just keep us all in your prayers. Thank you so much!

a little catching up

This was us last Christmas.

Here we are this Christmas. How awesome is that!

Well, 2009 has surely started with a bang. Some good and some bad ones. I'm just still sick and in shock over my friend and her husband. She isn't talking to anyone right now. She sent an email out letting us know she appreciates the kind words and wisdom,but right now she just wants to be left alone. She said she is just trying to comfort her boys and praying that he will come back with a changed heart. So keep praying for them. Their names are Amy and Matthew,the boys are Trevor and Samuel. Amy and the boys went to see her brother for a few days in MO,it'll do her some good to get away. Thank you very much.

Another prayer request is my extended family. My Dad's youngest brother is in ICU right now. He's got several things wrong and his son told us they are just trying to make him as comfortable as possible until he passes. It's the first of the siblings to pass. So pray for the Fryfogle family and Uncle Raymond's family specifically. He's got 1 son and 2 daughters,3 grand babies. He's not married,but divorced. He said that he asked Jesus into his heart last year,I pray he has. We went by there this morning,but didn't go in to see my Uncle. With him having staff as one of the problems, we figured it best not to go in. Everyone was doing okay. Stanley,his son, is really taking it hard. Christy and Kathy are doing better than I thought they would be. Continue to pray for them. This year has definitely started out just blah.

Onto more happy things. Things at our home have been wonderful. Christmas was wonderful at our home. We had a great time the Tuesday before with our friends. My candy I made was a hit and Daniel had fun with all the kids,minus one boy. He kept bullying all the babies and children. Christmas Eve we exchanged one gift and watched The Nativity Story. We let Daniel open a gift our neighbor got him and he went crazy haha It was so cute! Christmas morning we got up around 8 and let Daniel sleep in. We prayed and read the account of Jesus' birth in Luke. We exchanged gifts after that. Mike loved his gifts and I loved mine. He got me some nice things. I got a pair of new tennis shoes I've been needing too! We had a good time before we got Daniel up. I got the video camera and we went to wake him up. It was so fun! He sit up in the bed and just looked at us,like why are you doing this? hehe.. He really wasn't sure what to do about the presents. He would tear some and just sit there,I think he was still sleepy. He did like his puzzle and rubber ducky. We made it to my parents on time and alive ha! It was not even close to being cold outside,which was a bummer. We had a great time there! Daniel got some neat things. I got some jewelry and a huge collage picture frame. Mike got a tool box and some clothes. My Mother was so happy about the family portrait we gave her and so was Daddy. It was framed and everything! We had some great food and I got some pics. You can see them here @ Beauty of the Lord. Our last stop was Mike's parents. They were waiting on Karen to bring Maycie over. They all had been waiting all day on Maycie. She finally arrived and we did the gift exchange there. Daniel got a really neat Leap Frog Alphabet Pal. It will come in so handy in the next few years. He loves it! Mrs. Glenda LOVED the family portrait as well. I was so happy! All the women loved their make up too. Mike got some more cologne and some p.j. pants. I got some more p.j. pants and a Mossy Oak t-shirt,which I love,it's PINK! Daniel had fun there too,but was ready to go home. The Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Pie turned out great!! I didn't have time for homemade Peanut Butter Cookies,so the ones you bake is what I did. The cookies and candy,everyone loved. It was a wonderful Christmas. It's hard to believe next year Daniel will almost be 2 by Christmas!! Our New Year wasn't eventful. Mike was working and I was at home. Daniel and me just played and had fun. This is very late,but it's done at least.

Thinking about 2009 is exciting and scary at the same time. I wrote down some goals and aspirations for the year. I've been doing that since 2005. Just things that pertain to the physical or spiritual part of life, that I want to work on. This year will be really neat with Daniel turning 1 and really learning more. It'll be a neat time for us as parents and as a couple,we'll be married 3 years by December. It'll be trying at times I know,it's a part of life. I mean it has already been trying. But if we hold fast to the faith we have in Jesus Christ, we can make it. We can make it through whatever God wants us too or whatever the enemy may throw at us. I'm confident in Jesus and the Word of God. I want to grow much more in the Lord. I have really been grasping living it day by day,even when no one is watching. It is a daily choice to live for Christ,in ALL I do. I choose what to watch,how to talk,what to listen too,how to dress,how I think, and so on. I want this year to be a year of more growth and more dying to my selfish flesh. My verse this year is Galatians 5:16, "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh." It is not about me. This life is not about me,no matter how hard my flesh tells me it is. It is about Christ and being like him in all I do. It is about being a servant and about others. I may try and share my goals later this week. I pray you all want to be more like Christ too. It does matter how we live our day to day life,it matters so much. I love you all!! Until next time!

Urgent Prayer Request

A really close friend of ours find out something horrible New Year's Eve. Her husband had been seeing another woman. He didn't want to stay with her or their 2 young toddlers. It came as a complete shock to Mike and I. We know them both very well. The woman's extended family is like our own family. She needs prayers and so do her boys. They are only 3 and almost 2. They don't understand why Daddy left. He has no desire to see them or her. He needs prayers too. Pray for her Mother and brother also,they are very close to her and will be helping her financially and with everything else. They have a small goat and chicken farm they just started before he left them. I've cried and cried for her. We saw her Thursday and sorrow as well as angry rose up within me. How could someone leave their kids? They're just children. This made me realize even though I do guard my heart,I need to guard it more. Even though I do guard my marriage,I need to guard it more. Like Proverbs says, Keep thy heart with all diligence for out of it are the issues of life. Thank you for your prayers.