tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-156341322024-03-08T04:05:53.199+07:00"Be transformed" Romans 12:2My journey in discovering what it means to be transformed.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger237125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-17032098081542789182017-01-10T02:00:00.000+07:002018-07-06T21:14:37.634+07:00Loving Your Enemies<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="76t5u" data-offset-key="dk7eh-0-0" style="color: #4b4f56; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
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<span data-offset-key="dk7eh-0-0">Studying Matt 5:43-48 this week and I am so challenged. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="dk7eh-0-0">As I have been praying about what the Lord wants me to learn I am driven to ponder the very thing that drives people to hate. </span><br />
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<span data-offset-key="dk7eh-0-0">What causes people to hold on to past hurts? </span><br />
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<span data-offset-key="dk7eh-0-0">What benefit is derived from cutting people off and never having anything to do with them? </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="55s22-0-0">I understand hurt, I have been hurt. I understand disappointment, I have experienced my fair share of people not living up to the person they said they were. I understand being wrongly accused and even falsely judged for things that you would never do yet, someone believes you to be capable. I have been on the side of rejection. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="k840-0-0">I understand coming to the place where you can not have a "friendship" with someone who has done these things to you. I understand that unless repentance is present restoration can not fully take place. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="c2n72-0-0">I struggle with loving people for where they are in their process of growing in Christ or in their lostness. But I strive to do just that.... Love them. I strive to work it out in the mess of confrontation and rebuke. In that I find I am also confronted with my wrong behavior and I accept rebuke. I struggle too. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="7ff45-0-0">Matt 5:43-48 says, " You have heard that it was said, "You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy'. "But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? If you greet only your brother, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="5mev7-0-0">Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect" </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="7c4b6-0-0"> Today, I pray for my enemies, today, I pray that I will be perfect as my heavenly Father is perfect- today, I pray that I do not allow myself to be conformed by the world around me but that I would be transformed - Because I am different, I am a Child of the MOST HIGH GOD, the daughter of the King!</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="e8ff2-0-0">1 Peter 1:13-16</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="70ih2-0-0">"Therefore, prepare your minds for ACTION, Keep Sober in Spirit, Fix your HOPE completely on the GRACE to be brought to you at the Revelation of Jesus Christ. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="ap0m0-0-0">As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves all in all your behavior; because it is written,</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="ap0m0-0-0"> " You shall be Holy , for I Am Holy"</span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="3oju3-0-0">In and of myself I am not capable to accomplish this but in Christ, I can. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="e2her-0-0">2 Peter 1: 2-4 - "Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="euagp-0-0">It isn't for me to wonder how one can not follow God's commandments. Or why one does not believe in God. It is for me - a choice to be obedient. To love unconditionally. To show mercy. Be kind when wronged. Be gentle in spirit. Be gracious. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="a7dab-0-0">To genuinely pray for those who see me not as I am. And when I am confronted or rebuked that I would listen, repent, and be restored. Not just in word but in my actions! </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="7pv7l-0-0">I pray that I might by my love and sincerity be found faithful and obedient to what Christ calls me to. It doesn't mean it is easy but I am making the choice today to be different than I once was and to learn how to better love those who are my enemies. Those who hate and are unkind, those who are not children of obedience but choose disobedience. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="7pv7l-0-0">Loving your enemy is hard to do on your own but much easier to do when we see our own brokenness. </span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="7pv7l-0-0">What is hard about this for you? </span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Annapolis, MD, USA38.9784453 -76.49218289999998938.879686299999996 -76.653544399999987 39.0772043 -76.330821399999991tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-9253959724336890922014-05-09T16:41:00.000+07:002014-05-09T16:43:14.038+07:00You are a God Who Sees - Gen. 15 & 16 Married life is never easy!<br />
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Oh what a wonderful message this morning as I read through Genesis 15 & 16. I was reminded of the beauty of our lives and the complexity of our decisions when God gives us options in how we ought to obey. What really struck me this morning is that God spoke directly to Abram yet His promise would affect Sarai, Hagar, Ishmael and all of his children who followed after.<br />
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One promise, that Abram's seed would number as many as the stars in heaven and yet, the impatience of one affected the lives of so many.<br />
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When I was a young wife some 20 years ago, I remember sharing a prayer request with a friend about our call to the mission field. I was so frustrated because I was about 2-3 steps ahead of Dwayne in the surrender process. I kept saying to my friend, " I don't understand? He says he wants to go yet he won't commit and surrender to the Call "officially" in church." We were praying together and after we finished praying she looked me in the eye and said, "Melissa - you do not want an Ishmael - so be patient and allow the Lord to work in Dwayne's life".<br />
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That day is seared in my mind. I took heed of that admonition and I kept silent. I did not talk about it with him, instead of working it into conversations I relied on the Lord to draw Dwayne to surrender and commit to the call we both felt and knew the Lord was calling us to. The neat thing is He did! I just needed to allow the Lord to work it out in Dwayne.<br />
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Today you may be faced with a big decision maybe you can see the bigger picture, maybe the Lord has spoken and you are ready to walk in obedience if you are waiting on your spouse to meet you and join you in that decision - I encourage you to be patient. Wait! Wait! WAIT on the LORD! He will work with him or her and He will see it through to completion. It may take time, It may require some growth on both your parts but wait... pray and wait! It will be worth it to see the Lord accomplish His will in your lives. Just don't rush in and try to make it happen. The Lord doesn't want you to have suffer through an Ishmael either. So wait .... it will be worth it! <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-55718526576719073582013-10-18T18:13:00.001+07:002013-10-18T18:13:44.498+07:00In the Desert Places<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span id="goog_1810945639">Psalms 78 </span></div>
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<span id="goog_1810945639">"That they should put their confidence in God</span></div>
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<span id="goog_1810945639">And not forget the works of God,</span></div>
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<span id="goog_1810945639">But keep His commandments,</span></div>
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<span id="goog_1810945639">And not be like their fathers,</span></div>
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<span id="goog_1810945639">A stubborn and rebellious generation,</span></div>
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<span id="goog_1810945639">A generation that did not prepare its heart </span></div>
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<span id="goog_1810945639">And who's spirit was not faithful to God." </span>vs. 7-8</div>
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Over the years I've often said, "I sure feel like I am in the desert" when it come to my walk with the Lord. As I think about those words and what they communicate it's just not a place I enjoy. </div>
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The desert is lonely, dry, and while there is growth for living things there it is slow and measured. If you have found yourself in the desert place and feel alone, dry and like there is little growth. Take courage and put your confidence in the Lord your God. Keep a daily reminder of His faithfulness and hold tight to His Word and His Commandments. Trust in His faithfulness to continue to provide even when He feels far away- Remember though He is not far from you!</div>
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Psalms 91:1-2</div>
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"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High </div>
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Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.</div>
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I will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress,</div>
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My God, in whom I trust!"</div>
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Today ~ renew your strength in His Word and trust in His Ways. Recount His faithfulness and dig deep into His promises..... Enjoy the desert place and know that even there He is with you! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-14047673258997269312013-08-09T16:04:00.001+07:002013-08-09T16:04:22.061+07:00The JourneyAfter some time way from writing I've felt that pang with in me to get back to the very things that bring fulfillment. This is one of those things that, over the years, has brought me much fulfillment and it's writing. My dad, Chuck Emmett, a very godly man once sat me down and told me that I needed to journal my thoughts. I started this discipline when I was in my teens and have continued to journal all my life, writing. So, my journey back to writing. Where am I today?<br />
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We, my beloved, Dwayne Hughes and I , are in Naples, Italy. We just arrived in June and it has been refreshing to say the least. I have missed being overseas more than I realized. However, I miss our kids and being involved in their lives but as with all stages of life there is always something to glean from where are and I pray that I will glean much from this stage of life.<br />
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From here on out I will be writing weekly of what the Lord is teaching me. I pray that who ever falls upon this blog will be blessed, be challenged, be changed ~ "Transformed" not by what I write but rather what the Lord has been doing in my life. Maybe by my sharing others will begin their Journey seeking "Transformation"......<br />
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Blessings,<br />
Melissa Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-3368182929156271832009-09-18T04:35:00.002+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.398+07:00The Women<div style="text-align: center;">I have been wanting to see this movie for some time and finally I did....<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Here's the thing....<br />Life is full and I've been so blessed!<br />This movie made me think of all the women who have been in my life -<br /><br />I am so thankful for you all....<br />Past<br />Present<br />Future<br /><br />I wish we could have watched this movie together..<br /><br />2 things that really I absolutely loved:<br /><br />"The Vault" Steeling that one!<br />&<br />The moment when Meg Ryan and Annette Bening are sitting on the steps outside;<br />when Meg says, " It feels like when you lose an arm or leg and you have... you know that phantom feeling.." and she begins to cry. Then, Annette says, " Oh I know it is hard.. I know you miss him".<br />Then Meg says, "No, not him... I miss you! "<br /><br />For all those who have come into my life and for whatever reason: a move, relocation, job changes... that is how I feel about you...<br /><br />I hope you know who you are!<br /><br />I love you ~<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-79219094587706268022009-06-04T07:33:00.001+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.494+07:00Abiding, Pruning, Sin.....<div style="text-align: center;">These last few months of studying in John has been so good. It has taken me some time to really get through it but now that I'm finished I really feel I've grown in my understanding of what the Lord has been doing in my life these 4 + years.<br /><br />Pruning....<br /><br />It's something we know is necessary for trees to bear fruit. Interesting that the Lord uses Pruning as an illustration for us, as we try to grow in our own understanding of Bearing Fruit in Christ and striving for maturity in Him.<br /><br />Several things discussed in this little book have really made sense. It is cool to actually be able to read something and say, " Oh that's what I've been going through" . Or like Dwayne, said, " This is what I'm going through now." Mind you, we all are in out of the pruning process. It's really never ending for us as believers.<br /><br />This week the Lord has brought some real closure to some things and allowed me to see that pruning was necessary to allow me to grow in ways I would not without being pruned. I've also realized for the first time what it means to produce fruit more abundantly. I've been producing but to yield more than what I have done in the past - Pruning is necessary. It's not always easy to go through that process. I've also realized that sin has played a part in some of the less fruitful times of my life. What I mistook for the Desert experience was partly true but I was in the desert because of sin... not because of other reason. We often hear people say it feels like I'm living in a drought. God just doesn't seem near..I've been there... what I realized was that Sin was yet again the cause of my feeling so alone. I had to recognize what it was I was doing or the thing that I was holding on too so tightly that I wouldn't allow the Lord to complete His work in my life.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Interesting enough in <span style="font-weight: bold;">SECRETS OF THE VINE</span>, by Bruce Wilkinson, he shares that sometimes we confuse pruning for discipline. When discipline occurs it usually has consequences attached to it. We can confess our wrong and forgiveness is given but sometimes we have to allow for the consequences to pass before we can see the end to the situation. There is no fruit being produced when sin is present. The only way to end the discipline is to stop sinning and ask for forgiveness. Unfortunately, most people don't even recognize their own sin but cast blame on others rather than accepting their own responsibility.<br /><br />When Pruning is taking place there is always pain involved. Usually your doing something right because your growing and maturing. Your producing fruit in the Spirit but the Lord sees your Potential ( which I think is so beautiful) and so He prunes your life, so that you can become more fruitful. There isn't a sin involved. Usually it's a you issue. Maybe your holding on to something or trying to do something on your own. ( This could become sin but maybe it's not to that point.) Our response ought to be to trust in the Lord and seek His kingdom. Seeking after His will . Allow God to have His way in your life and walk in Obedience to what it is He's asking of you.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">It's been a special study for me. I see the Lord using this to heighten my awareness of Him at work in my life. Now when something happens or I sense something changing - I immediately think. Lord, is there a sin in my life or is this your hands gently pruning my life. <br /><br /><br />" In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing , you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory. 1 Peter 1: 6:8<br /><br />I pray you abide in Christ in ways you've never experienced before and that you experience His gentle pruning that causes you to grow deeper in love with Him which will then produce<br />lasting, ever lasting fruit that will not perish but will then grow and multiply.<br /><br />Here's to living and abiding in Him.<br /></div></div></div><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMzg0S1UqTaLk-39HSYqDeBP_QqDrK0uCk4PnsgvMS35PaFlqfNBPeA3_mrzuxNT5BUgVSsX2TH32-tCI4vQy0VT0Zvu1nV8pl7zMxWVgTGCdImVjCXO3167g1YUVM0t_2RaOe/s1600-h/Secrets3D.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 197px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMzg0S1UqTaLk-39HSYqDeBP_QqDrK0uCk4PnsgvMS35PaFlqfNBPeA3_mrzuxNT5BUgVSsX2TH32-tCI4vQy0VT0Zvu1nV8pl7zMxWVgTGCdImVjCXO3167g1YUVM0t_2RaOe/s400/Secrets3D.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343254487180264050" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-7630016875583572382009-05-29T11:20:00.002+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.477+07:00Getting Stuck<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_TQ0YFCOK_zo7xWDSOvNoHG4R_saAKFndjkPeYSxJpc0EwwZV1bmAFEI5_oSU4nb9h6V4seKHkD9Y-PwqkHshyphenhyphen3CJzy1jDfXjCeSDqrF4Zeaq7LDMlT8mVfmG8QVZW_4XOdFbJg/s1600-h/zni7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 262px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_TQ0YFCOK_zo7xWDSOvNoHG4R_saAKFndjkPeYSxJpc0EwwZV1bmAFEI5_oSU4nb9h6V4seKHkD9Y-PwqkHshyphenhyphen3CJzy1jDfXjCeSDqrF4Zeaq7LDMlT8mVfmG8QVZW_4XOdFbJg/s400/zni7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341096602112972754" border="0"></a>I am thankful that in the past few years the Lord has taught me alot. These past few months I've been digging in the Word and reading about pruning , abiding , sin and how these have a huge affect on me bearing fruit in Christ. <br /><br />Several years ago the Lord used a situation in my life to really catapult me into what felt like the miry clay. He allowed me to sink just deep enough to realize I couldn't get myself out on my own. I had to spend some time seriously looking at myself rather than others. Accepting my part and taking the steps to make things right. How or what other do is in His hands. I am only responsible for myself and my actions. I realized that I was unaware how my words were being received. - Words take on a life of their own even if you think you are communicating clearly... sometimes, words shouldn't be spoken. A lesson I have learned.<br /><br />This past month the lord has shown me how what I use to think were seasons in my life really were.... the problem was I only ever recognized 2 seasons... I only ever saw them as Summer or Spring.... I was totally missing the boat.<br /><br />In my study of the vine.. I am realizing that there are times when sin causes me to become withered and fruitless... until I confess and make things right - I won't reach my full potential.<br /><br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-91180512681895868312009-05-11T22:19:00.002+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.512+07:00Blessings....Our Daughter is getting married May 23, 2009. She has been dating her boyfriend for over a year now and they had plans to marry this time next year. That would have been a perfect time to marry. However, things got bumped up due to Dwayne's pending deployment to Iraq. <br /><br />It was brought to my attention that there are some who aren't Happy for our daughter's pending marriage. I guess I shouldn't be shocked to hear their concerns as they were some of my own concerns but<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-7877405049095256622009-05-11T22:19:00.000+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.490+07:00Blessings....Our Daughter is getting married May 23, 2009. She has been dating her boyfriend for over a year now and they had plans to marry this time next year. That would have been a perfect time to marry. However, things got bumped up due to Dwayne's pending deployment to Iraq. <br /><br />It has been<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-85171558038999533682009-05-07T11:46:00.002+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.507+07:00The Vine....<div style="text-align: center;">John 15<br /><br /><br />I want you to read this passage of Jesus talking to the disciples and he talks about abiding in him and bearing fruit.<br /><br /><br />It shouldn't surprise me how the Lord brings topics up again, and again, and again.<br /><br />Bearing fruit and living at peace with men has been just 2 topics that the Lord continues to refine in my life.<br /><br />This study in John though has been so meaningful and I've been touched so deeply. I pray you will read it. I'll share a bit of what I've been pondering and chewing on tomorrow. :)<br /><br /><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-76495796812317522922009-04-17T06:47:00.002+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.480+07:00Moving on...<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCqrTbNkDr-t4JuxFqXmRPC9bFurWspptsEOd8LWO0hMzs_LwdqGJASrF78xc8ZLflooYRHM8r3TUedn2GVwn8c6UkYY1FCi9BjjqFFq_5Z0FyReoY_wUQl5I_BLfY7ydk4firw/s1600-h/3118_69837027450_515127450_1539611_356929_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCqrTbNkDr-t4JuxFqXmRPC9bFurWspptsEOd8LWO0hMzs_LwdqGJASrF78xc8ZLflooYRHM8r3TUedn2GVwn8c6UkYY1FCi9BjjqFFq_5Z0FyReoY_wUQl5I_BLfY7ydk4firw/s400/3118_69837027450_515127450_1539611_356929_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325440786872837202" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I think pictures have the power to evoke emotions and bring to mind stories from our past or dreams of where we hope to go. Our daughter is getting married in less than one month. This is one of their engagement pictures. When I saw it I thought of several things.<br /><br />Two things caught my attention right off the bat. First was how Kayla and Nick are on different tracks but yet still heading in the same direction. How true it is that sometimes those we walk along with are heading in the same directions but we may be on different tracks. If we are fortunate enough to have people in our life that we can speak frankly with, talk openly with, and share all our thoughts and feelings with we are blessed. The second thing that caught my eye was how Kayla and Nick are holding hands. It's so true with life that as we walk along our own track it's so much easier when someone else walks with us. It's especially hard to do that for long by yourself.<br /><br />I am so thankful for all the people in my life who have held my hand along the way and have walked through life with me. Even those who chose not to have anything to do with me now. We once walked and held hands, helping one another along life's journey.<br /><br />I'm grateful for you all....<br /><br />Especially my family ~ My beloved!<br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-61595112904312125222009-03-26T06:44:00.000+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.451+07:00What comes around goes around <br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-6209277379921954712009-02-27T22:34:00.002+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.455+07:00Eternity ~ Life ~ Hope<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihLeN_4qTU7yJ4xbBlcJME6bSc7HsODG_ihUgXGzJkBNFBB7lnlhFdtcQ65thO7N28cplb9K9Q1Vg7f1cZsWvGtFjkxqVCBISqpOfx25DkagOoMWN0dtFHVZKfvMTHV_ZdcIQUdg/s1600-h/hubble-eagle-nebula-wide-field.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihLeN_4qTU7yJ4xbBlcJME6bSc7HsODG_ihUgXGzJkBNFBB7lnlhFdtcQ65thO7N28cplb9K9Q1Vg7f1cZsWvGtFjkxqVCBISqpOfx25DkagOoMWN0dtFHVZKfvMTHV_ZdcIQUdg/s400/hubble-eagle-nebula-wide-field.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307502581935240402" border="0" /></a><br />I hate when I haven't blogged in a while and it seems like that is happening alot lately. I'm just too tired to really have time to sit and write. I love blogging though and I pray that as the summer moves into sight I'll have more and more time to blog and get back to writing again.<br /><br />In the mean time though I'll just pop in and pop out as time permits.<br /><br />This month has brought some serious changes to our family. Our Daughter's boyfriend Nick, asked for her hand in marriage! So they are engaged now and a wedding is planned for May of this year! :) I am very excited for her and Nick. They both love the Lord and desire to serve Him.<br /><br />Our work among our Men and Women in Uniform, US ARMY, is going well. We stay busy but it's been good. Just two days ago I was able to share with a young woman and she believed. It was a blessing to me that the Lord allowed me the privilege of leading her to the Lord. I am so excited for her!<br /><br />That is the reason for the title... Eternity, Life, Hope.....<br /><br />She now has all three and so much more!<br /><br />To God Be the Glory!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-1364617331182247712009-01-30T02:27:00.003+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.362+07:00Actions say what's important to us<div>Ever just hear someone say something like, "My family is important". </div>
<br /><div> </div>
<br /><div>What is your first thought? Wow that is great. But once you watch that person for awhile you begin to see that what they say and what they really value isn't the same. </div>
<br /><div> </div>
<br /><div>I was taking a class once that talked about Values and Goals. </div>
<br /><div> </div>
<br /><div>We set goals for ourselves and they often times reflect our values. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-86724014188427610732009-01-01T01:15:00.002+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.509+07:00Fun in the snow<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44jNk0WF0XyJQ10myyLgFSusTuwW6X4B0lpcPHx5RuyID7lah5RQDYf8Ss54VhNx4BZ7uNFqLOyYcvMyWEcrKuZyFrnALfoV1JZKUAN_ElMl3GnL1WLHljotcHK1PIQYKH8SvQQ/s1600-h/Leavenworth.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44jNk0WF0XyJQ10myyLgFSusTuwW6X4B0lpcPHx5RuyID7lah5RQDYf8Ss54VhNx4BZ7uNFqLOyYcvMyWEcrKuZyFrnALfoV1JZKUAN_ElMl3GnL1WLHljotcHK1PIQYKH8SvQQ/s320/Leavenworth.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286023148951106050" border="0" /></a><br />What a great time with the kids. Dwayne and I as apart of their Christmas gift took them on a skiing trip. It was the first time for the kids to go snowboarding and the first time for Dwayne and I to ski in over 20 years. Nick was the only one who had recent skiing experience.<br /><br />We laughed and had a great time. We even took the kids snowmobiling which was a first for us all.<br />We enjoyed our time together but it was just too short!<br /><br />Happy New Year to you all!<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-55872870543400473882008-12-27T01:26:00.002+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.436+07:00The Day After ~<div style="text-align: justify;">No, it's not a movie or even a book. It's just the day after Christmas. I love reflection and having the ability to look back and think about how things have gone either for the day or for an event. Christmas is so different in the states then when we lived overseas. It's not that it is different in a bad way it's just different. For instance, overseas it's just another day for most people in China don't really celebrate Christmas. More and more people are but still the vast majority do not. There aren't any holidays off from school or work and there is no special music playing. No rush to buy that special gift or that feeling of being bombarded with JUNK. No fattening foods or stress in thinking did I get everything I needed to get.<br /><br />Instead, it was relaxed and the focus was on giving parties in hopes of sharing the True meaning of Christmas. It was calm and full of joy. It was refreshing to not see a Santa Claus on every store front ringing a bell or turning on the t.v. and seeing advertisements for that special gift. <br /><br />This year as I reflect back on Christmas Day and the days leading up to it, I have a smile on my face. It wasn't just like being overseas but it was nice. It was calm and full of joy. It makes all the difference when we keep our focus on the true meaning rather than all the hoopla of shopping and stress of buying....<br /><br />I received the greatest gift I've ever received in Christ Jesus and while it is nice to remember what God did for us all during this holiday season - one thing we must remember is that His gift keeps on giving. I hope you were able to share it with someone during this holiday season!<br /><br /><br />If not, make plans now for next year. Think about what you could differently and plan it out. Make it happen and be bold to share with others what a special gift you have in Christ Jesus!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-58310634311537682392008-12-24T07:03:00.002+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.442+07:00Christmas Eve<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB8Jz8dcjszvfRrV4aIL-lbcjFrnRFNsBVYjBfO5GJxQmAEnDRp_UEYjkpABP9_jauF9v2q7bzENCsltunrqjo4a7Fuqr7TlERyTR4CVaegDVCbD0zeXTxqnfaXuiw2Q5yZzKJEw/s1600-h/trees.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB8Jz8dcjszvfRrV4aIL-lbcjFrnRFNsBVYjBfO5GJxQmAEnDRp_UEYjkpABP9_jauF9v2q7bzENCsltunrqjo4a7Fuqr7TlERyTR4CVaegDVCbD0zeXTxqnfaXuiw2Q5yZzKJEw/s320/trees.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283372093001415042" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">It is Christmas Eve the snow was falling earlier this morning but now it has warmed a bit and it's mixed rain and sleet. I can't hardly believe how fast this month has come and is about to go. However, I want to enjoy this special time of the year as we celebrate the Birth of our Savior.<br /><br />I'm so very thankful for so much this year. I am reminded of the greatest gift ever given by a Loving and Caring God who wanted to provide a way for us all to live eternity with Him.<br />He did this by sending His Son, Jesus Christ to live a life of true sacrifice for all who would believe.<br /><br />Salvation is truly a precious gift. I can't help but be a bit sentimental about all that God has done for me....<br /><br />I just thank the Lord for calling me into His Family and for giving me such a precious gift in His Son, Jesus Christ!<br /><br />Merry Christmas Everyone<br /></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-3066614422558880332008-12-24T00:35:00.002+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.397+07:00It all starts with....<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;">What we think!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">I have been reading a devotional with my husband, Dwayne, this year and it's been such a good book I wish everyone would buy it and read it. Every day there is such a good word to walk away with. This month there have been so many good things to ponder and to re-examine.<br /><br />One of the areas where I feel the Lord has really grown me in is in the area of Disciplining how I think. You know the verse that says, "Take every thought captive".<br /><br />Isn't it cool how we can look back over the year and see the ways the Lord uses situations, events, and people to teach us lessons.<br /><br />I never really realized how out of control my thought life was until I had a huge break down in communication with someone who I thought was a very dear and close friend. It was so painful to hear her say very hurtful and attacking things about me that it really did cause me step back and evaluate who I was. I take my friendships very seriously. When I call someone a good friend it really is because I have found that person to be someone who I feel betters me and causes me to want to be a better person. I do not use that word very often and I can truly count on one hand the number of GOOD friends I've had over the years. <br /><br />I realize that friends even though they are good sometimes are for a season. I can think of several Good friends I've had during different seasons of life that had I not had them I think I would have had a hard time making it through that season of life. They were a great source of comfort, encouragement, strength, wisdom, sounding blocks and most importantly helped correct my wrong thinking.<br /><br /><br />It is never easy to be blind sided though and to hear someone say things about you and to hear them attack you. I guess as I look back on this event now I am thankful for what it has produced in me. I can honestly say that it allowed me to see what kind of person I was being without even realizing it.<br /><br />What kind of person is that, you ask?<br /><br />Well, it's the kind of person who see something happen and assumes the worst not in every event but with a select group of people. Assumes that it was meant for harm. It's the kind of person when something happens tries to see the positive but rehashes the event over and over which eventually blows it out of proportion.<br /><br />I had been doing this with a handful of people in my life. Mostly those who I wanted a closer friendship with but it wasn't reciprocal. I tend to want deep friendships and have a hard time accepting it when people don't want that with me. I mean I think I'm a pretty nice person. :)<br />Actually it goes a bit deeper than that but thats another blogging moment. ;)<br /><br />Anyway, the Lord used this event to really teach me how important it was to let things go and not dwell on them. To allow an event to happen without obsessing about it. To not think more deeply about what was said nor think I could even really understand what the other person meant or intended to say. I had to learn not to read more into what was being said than what was actually being said. MAN IT WAS HARD! Two things I had actually allowed to get totally out of control are : Assumptions, Presumptions....<br /><br />But in this situation that actually drug on for years... finally - I was able to say, Okay. I can't make people want to reconcile. I can't make people believe the truth or accept my apologies, I can't make people understand or see the situation from my point of view and I surely couldn't make people believe the best about me.<br /><br />However - I could do all those things for them. I could reconcile and say Your forgiven, I could believe the truth and accept their apologies when the time came that they offered it. I could be willing to understand and see the situation from their point of view and I most definitely could believe the best about them.<br /><br />It has changed how I see conflict - how I perceive people and their actions.<br /><br />It has made me wish I had learned this lesson years ago.....<br /><br />Because friends really Good friends ~<br />are hard to come by.<br /><br /><br /></span></span></div><iframe id="AnswersBalloonIframe" src="javascript:false" style="border: medium none ; z-index: 99998; position: absolute; width: 490px; height: 306px; visibility: hidden; background-color: transparent; top: 484px; left: 106px; margin-left: 10px; margin-top: 10px;"></iframe><div style="width: 490px; position: absolute; visibility: hidden; z-index: 99999; text-align: left; top: 460px; left: 106px;" id="AnswersBalloon"><div id="AnswerTipHook" style="background-image: url(http://www.answers.com/main/images/hook-topR.gif); width: 67px; height: 24px; margin-left: 400px; position: relative; 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display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzN6Jzhl5gRB9HtdFVe63tQ3xskAdvKftfFibAwDnP1hrcBje5OeR_l3LwRT4apsVYDXnEqfFvSjWNkexBQrdsRBEErYpkdsNMdtGqONFUy-7xlakB900yoeJRgzLUOUKkIQOkQ/s320/lighttheway.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282419211663899362" border="0"></a><br /><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-45682523533551337792008-10-30T21:13:00.003+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.424+07:00Walking as Wise men<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Z66aq9qpd8gHVUb8YWnzGSIgdQ6KuWeevKo-z_S4p_I9hMRF1M8gwbkbdF6EeS1kGabRXVs9DqjUNtflV5-bZuKhUXEfGuKT6nTPdWSbt_6Gm8QY_qVbhiWzA0deHK4SRwFHTg/s1600-h/DSC07666.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Z66aq9qpd8gHVUb8YWnzGSIgdQ6KuWeevKo-z_S4p_I9hMRF1M8gwbkbdF6EeS1kGabRXVs9DqjUNtflV5-bZuKhUXEfGuKT6nTPdWSbt_6Gm8QY_qVbhiWzA0deHK4SRwFHTg/s320/DSC07666.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262950219780114178" border="0" /></a><br />"Therefore, be careful how you walk not as unwise men but as wise"<br />Ephesians 5:15<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><br />Since moving to Washington, Dwayne and I have had a hard time sleeping. Well, we sleep but it seems we are up before 3am every day. It's been this way since our arrival. As fatigue began to set in we kept asking the question "why". It's been hard to figure out. Usually if the Lord wakes us up we know He's prodding us to pray for someone or something. There were times we prayed but really neither one of us really felt that was the cause of us waking up. After a full month we finally feel we know why.<br /><br />It's becoming apparent to us the road Father has called us to walk. It's not one that we haven't walked before but it has been a long while since we have walked this road. Have you ever hiked before? If so, maybe you can identify with us. When you hike you sometimes hit different terrain. If you aren't use to hiking on gravel you will soon start feeling the pain in your feet. If you have your feet become calloused and don't hurt so much.<br /><br />We feel we have hit a new kind of road. It's been a bit bumpy and we have some blisters and now the Lord is beginning to shed some light on how we ought to train in order to be victorious. It doesn't however, mean that we don't have alot more training to do. But this is the lesson for this week. And might I add our morning still come very early however, rest is finally coming in those few hours we do get! Thank you Lord!<br /><br />In short: I was prodded to go back to studying the word based on impressions from what I felt the H.S. was trying to teach me. Being Careful in my walk. So I began studying scripture that dealt with this. As I was studying this Dwayne was doing another study which led him to Ps. 119. As we shared what the Lord was teaching us in our study time at the start of the week on Sunday, we began to see how Father was teaching us both the same thing but in different ways. How cool is that! :) It was confirmation to us that we were on the right path and that Father was doing something exciting.<br /><br />Don't you just love how when we seek the Lord for wisdom He answers.....<br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-26468021517504616852008-10-09T06:17:00.003+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.387+07:00Job hunting<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6Bw378JrQfJ2wa_ekXJlZqpC9xMKvlNx7qJbRxnlJ_ip7qg8Nn3awhsQGvpyB7cqCvPnN0MKmq43TpZYqk501aSWUk6ETQavcCOtZ0tIxl9GWhq7mhje6kA1WkkgBsF1SyJzEQ/s1600-h/cainsmel.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6Bw378JrQfJ2wa_ekXJlZqpC9xMKvlNx7qJbRxnlJ_ip7qg8Nn3awhsQGvpyB7cqCvPnN0MKmq43TpZYqk501aSWUk6ETQavcCOtZ0tIxl9GWhq7mhje6kA1WkkgBsF1SyJzEQ/s320/cainsmel.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254926430314983138" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I really wish that job hunting was as easy as going to an orchard and picking an apple. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Alas~ it is not! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've been working on sending out resume's and doing interviews but so far nothing. It's been discouraging since I started looking. Mind you its only been 2 weeks but man it feels like a month. I definitely want to wait for the right one but there are moments when I think. We have 3 kids in college and I'm about to go back myself.... Hellow- it's not cheap and I need a job! ;) </div><div style="text-align: center;">However, I know the Lord is caring for us and we aren't really in need of me working I just want to help in the load. Especially this year while I wait to get into nursing school. I should hear though in the next month if I am accepted into one of the schools here. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Again, I find that the Lord is stretching me in new and different ways. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">anyway- here's to job hunting - I have a job fair I'm going to on the 15th. Lord willing- I'll be offered a job! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's Pray'n for something to sweet to fall in my lap! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-24300612110722229682008-10-07T10:25:00.000+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.383+07:00Fall Changes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSYtZqBruyZk2q9RnBv6oau73AGfx5vrGSSsh_l-URgs3KDtb13BHF4tIEi8-LLfJMQQwyK2eZBQNxrHereyY2iHKGqAhH0VwOp35PPC7YZRrNFigD1umldp1En3q-mfRw_O0mg/s1600-h/colors3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSYtZqBruyZk2q9RnBv6oau73AGfx5vrGSSsh_l-URgs3KDtb13BHF4tIEi8-LLfJMQQwyK2eZBQNxrHereyY2iHKGqAhH0VwOp35PPC7YZRrNFigD1umldp1En3q-mfRw_O0mg/s320/colors3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254248206655588498"></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdds-gG2q6ODVeBSsT4BdcsLhll-uOFnXsuf4lY2oEvIl54w8pJ5oZf4pRVpg38Tcw0kafN_mSjDKsIMXEvuZM5CFOvUwXMCQB-Biu2vUq1Jcf0TgjhUphoDsurF3fYzE5d_OWg/s1600-h/colors5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdds-gG2q6ODVeBSsT4BdcsLhll-uOFnXsuf4lY2oEvIl54w8pJ5oZf4pRVpg38Tcw0kafN_mSjDKsIMXEvuZM5CFOvUwXMCQB-Biu2vUq1Jcf0TgjhUphoDsurF3fYzE5d_OWg/s320/colors5.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254248214353132530"></a><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-3920630480675315402008-10-07T05:25:00.002+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.410+07:00Time AwayWhere to begin? <div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I guess the best place is to start now. The Lord saw fit to call us to serve in a new capacity. Dwayne is officially, Chaplain Hughes. He is serving our men and women in the Army. In one year we went from reaching the lostness of Asia to now reaching and ministering to our very own... men and women in the Army. </div><div><br /></div><div>We were thrilled to hear our first duty station was going to be Fort Lewis, Washington. We love the outdoors and so this seems like a great fit for us. We have loved it so far and have enjoyed settling into our home. </div><div><br /></div><div>More to come later. </div><div><br /></div><div>It feels good to be back to writing. I am sorry for having gone missing but I'm back! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-33985874420251367612008-03-06T19:16:00.003+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.401+07:00Giant Red Woods<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNVwONXaXH3YUxuw3rBtYpxf0LRQjagY6QbERUWaBzDRtsezTHZMda13EdCsd6RxWqT7feAeQhGZS4KX7GKXfMrK6Zp_hgfWHrycTQgMZUsMMdfs1xWQANrk5BBOBJC7HBY58zOQ/s1600-h/116349-R1-01-1_002_1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNVwONXaXH3YUxuw3rBtYpxf0LRQjagY6QbERUWaBzDRtsezTHZMda13EdCsd6RxWqT7feAeQhGZS4KX7GKXfMrK6Zp_hgfWHrycTQgMZUsMMdfs1xWQANrk5BBOBJC7HBY58zOQ/s400/116349-R1-01-1_002_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5174601840767057554" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bfHFHiCkG18HklliR4SlgnA-ryidUKln7oq_72JzQF1lq-qsuj2VGuTSfA2zlb_OUgPOUlwKustd4JxRLdnrZkPEmsaTQoOmvwMCcw5RhaaqGmzMS4xUCEGc01Af5qsQ80OUnA/s1600-h/116349-R1-02-2_003_1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bfHFHiCkG18HklliR4SlgnA-ryidUKln7oq_72JzQF1lq-qsuj2VGuTSfA2zlb_OUgPOUlwKustd4JxRLdnrZkPEmsaTQoOmvwMCcw5RhaaqGmzMS4xUCEGc01Af5qsQ80OUnA/s400/116349-R1-02-2_003_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5174601849356992162" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHQdb69lKW-8lGmhM-KWV0YQhaCGOYnRWJSqd5fCbbL1K8XIyQe4WZ0M-RyT7uGGIv1916jLsXqH2NjUJbTc8nchYA48WPqjZVo3c6vWbFoE-bS-ntiZmU-d_P6DDxTk0uTVxNA/s1600-h/116349-R1-08-8_009_1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHQdb69lKW-8lGmhM-KWV0YQhaCGOYnRWJSqd5fCbbL1K8XIyQe4WZ0M-RyT7uGGIv1916jLsXqH2NjUJbTc8nchYA48WPqjZVo3c6vWbFoE-bS-ntiZmU-d_P6DDxTk0uTVxNA/s400/116349-R1-08-8_009_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5174601853651959474" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTbQLorG1rQ6Sg5vYcKXkq4EpL65twIN1V7Y6YJkMX-qe-1sIQpJ3HcPdeNs5HR6NxkfihuD2noRQi4kX1iz3Z7Ok2kj0N2xbSj5mTK13UrXweWEPkoKA6ABcRJBTmgKO2H54cpw/s1600-h/116349-R1-10-10_011_1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTbQLorG1rQ6Sg5vYcKXkq4EpL65twIN1V7Y6YJkMX-qe-1sIQpJ3HcPdeNs5HR6NxkfihuD2noRQi4kX1iz3Z7Ok2kj0N2xbSj5mTK13UrXweWEPkoKA6ABcRJBTmgKO2H54cpw/s400/116349-R1-10-10_011_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5174601866536861378" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDeKNizi8uTDKyg7D0wZjYMqccZTN2QhLV-sRBV4Ued5nD4c__0flGagVX5Qd83A8ECYjkfNjNcHdnRedPCglr1lrcYsJ6USrrew_gTpJWfizhfQdm9x2mCtnDusqX2i81GMRrzg/s1600-h/116349-R1-07-7_008_1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDeKNizi8uTDKyg7D0wZjYMqccZTN2QhLV-sRBV4Ued5nD4c__0flGagVX5Qd83A8ECYjkfNjNcHdnRedPCglr1lrcYsJ6USrrew_gTpJWfizhfQdm9x2mCtnDusqX2i81GMRrzg/s400/116349-R1-07-7_008_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5174601866536861394" border="0" /></a><br />Dwayne and I traveled to California this past weekend and we had a good visit with some pretty neat folks up in Bakersfield, California. We had a few hours on Saturday once we arrived and we went to see the Red woods. It was just amazing. Here's the thing though, we have never left home without a camera until this trip! We could not believe it. So these pictures aren't near as good as they could have been had we had our digital cameras. However, they did capture the moment!<br /><br />We had a good time ~Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15634132.post-67341323359929452232008-02-16T10:51:00.003+07:002013-08-09T15:53:12.462+07:00Back from a tripIt's been a good month but I've not had much time to post. I'm in school full time and trying to manage work with travel too. I am not sure when I'll post again here but if you come by just pop over to our family blog. I'll likely be posting there each week ~ time permitting. :)<br /><br /><br />have a great weekend!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0