A CHISTMAS EVE STATUS REPORT

Lisa uses this status report format on her blog and I really like it. It works well for those extreme days when you either have nothing to say or so much that you can't write just one post. Today is a perfect Status Report Day. I plan to update throughout the day and document every possible moment of the "build up" to the much anticipated - Christmas Day!

Sitting... here laughing my head off at C who sat straight up in bed this morning and instead of his usual, groggy "Good morning, mommy" He yelled out, "Well, Mommy, I guess Santa muss be getting dress!" It's going to be a fun day!

Making... a list, checking it twice. This refers to my final final meal list to be sure I have all the ingredients to prepare dinner tonight and tomorrow. Oh yeah, and making breakfast. That is, if you call cereal bars, bagels, strawberries and orange, apple or grape juice making something.

Calling... L with an EMERGENCY. He had to run an errand this morning, but before leaving got B out of bed and brought him into our room with his paci. Now the poor kid is paci-less and melting down! I abruptly ended a phone call with my mother, because B is screaming louder than I can talk. Whoo!

Bending... the rules to let B have candy with breakfast. I have to keep him happy while I find that paci.

Surviving... Barely. The rapid fire of questions C is already asking me this morning. Like..."When is Santa coming?" and "Is it almost dark yet?" and "Is it dark in China, right now?" and "Does that mean they are already having Christmas Eve night in China?" Can reindeer sit down? and last but not least this: "Uh, Mommy, do you remember that list I gave you to give Santa? Did you get it back? I need to look at it." I can only hope he doesn't need to add something. Maybe he just wants to hold Santa accountable tomorrow morning. We'll see. Hilarious.

Drinking... Freshly brewed Folgers Decaf coffee. Medium Roast.

Reading... My Jesus is Everything, by Anne Graham Lotz. She writes:

"He discharges the debtors. He delivers the captives. He defends the feeble. He blesses the young. He serves the unfortunate. He regards the aged. He rewards the diligent. He beautifies the meek. He is the key to knowledge. He is the wellspring of wisdom. He is the foundation of faith. He is the doorway of deliverance. He is the pathway to peace. He is the roadway of righteousness. He is the gateway to glory. He is the highway to happiness. My Jesus is...Everything!"

Praying... for those who don't know HIM. That by God's almighty power they will be led into the way everlasting.

Tracking... Santa's every move! like JMOM & Co. over at Lots of Scotts

THROUGH THE STORM

Old news, maybe? You may have seen this already but before yesterday, I had not. I'd only heard about it. If you aren't familiar with the photo, it is the last house standing after Hurricane Ike flattened Gilchrist Island in September. The debris you see around the house was previously a neighborhood! As I read through my morning Psalms, I was moved to print this and place it in my Bible - right there at Psalms 91.

"A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. If you make the Most High your dwelling - even the Lord who is my refuge - then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near you in your tent, for he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread upon the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. 'Because he loves me' says the Lord, 'I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name." (Psalms 91:7-14, NIV)

Please don't interpret this as my saying the folks who lost their homes on this devastated island were wicked. I am simply saying "See what God can do!"

THANKFULLY FREEZING COLD

Yesterday was the official first day of winter. This morning's temperature was a freezing 18 degrees. You wouldn't know it by today, but the place we call home is sometimes called HOT-Lanta, so we Georgia Peaches are well, um, adjusting.

Even my little B had a hard time thawing out this morning. He must have sensed it was a cold day, because he just wanted to cuddle with his favorite pillow, in his favorite chair and spend the day doing this:




However, we ended up doing something more along the lines of this:



Bundled to the max, on this chilly second day of winter my heart is flooded with thanksgiving. I thank God for the warm house that he woke us up in this morning, because truthfully, before we saw the news we had NO idea it was THAT cold outside. Afterall, it was a toasty 74 degrees inside.

I thank God for our warm home, I thank HIM that we have a home. I thank HIM that once we received the news of the low temperature, we were able to proceed to our closets and pick from a variety of long sleeved shirts and coats to keep warm. After preparing the boys breakfast (I thank HIM that our pantry is full), Dad went outside to warm the vehicles and we headed off to our schools and jobs.

I do not take for granted ALL that God has given us - a warm place to sleep, food to eat, clothes to wear, family to love, vehicles to drive, caretakers who eagerly and lovingly receive our children each morning and jobs to work. He is truly my Jehovah Raah - Lord The Provider. I give HIM all the praise and glory for his gracious provisions (spiritual and material) in our lives. Thank You Lord!

A PRAISE PARTY

Oh, how I wish I had pictures of the fun we had tonight.

While Dad worked to finish some projects on his '08 "honey do" list, the boys and I retreated to their rooms for some good old fashioned fun. After a few games of football (seven touchdowns) and Bob the Builder, C decided we should sing. He selected two songs and with that, "sing time" turned into an all out praise party! The two "favorite" songs he selected were, #1: "Get Up" (Mary Mary) and #2: "I Know Who I Am" (Israel Houghton). He can really belt out this part of "Get Up":

"What are you afraid of? Don't you know what you're made of? One of God's greatest creations!"

Both songs are a part of our Praise and Worship at Children's Church on Wednesday nights, so he is very familiar with them even though he is sometimes too shy to fully participate in the group excercise. However, I saw tonight that even though he is somewhat reserved at church, he KNOWS the words, GETS the concepts and LOVES the Lord!

I pray constantly that the Lord manifest himself through our family and through our children and I am seeing that prayer answered everyday. Tonight was yet another chance for me to witness God moving and it warmed my heart. Just watching C jump around praising the Lord while belting out the words with everything he had was a blessing. I must say, it even gave me a few songs to sing and one in particular came to mind:

"There may be things I do not know. There may be places I cannot go. But if there is one thing I know. Yes God is real. For I can feel. HIM in my soul!"

Praise God! G'night

A MARY CHRISTMAS

The story of two sisters who welcomed Jesus as he passed through their town, can teach us a lot about cherishing HIS presence. It is particularly appropriate as we move towards the last days of holiday shopping and preparations; It becomes so easy to turn our focus towards minor details and miss the opportunity to concentrate on the real cause for celebration - Jesus Christ.

As translated in The Message, the scriptures detailing Jesus’ visit with Mary and Martha read as follows:

"As they continued their travel, Jesus entered a village. A woman by the name of Martha welcomed him and made him feel quite at home. She had a sister, Mary who sat before the Master, hanging on every word he said. But Martha was pulled away by all she had to do in the kitchen. Later, she stepped in, interrupting them. 'Master don't you care that my sister has abandoned the kitchen to me? Tell her to lend me a hand.' The Master said, 'Martha, dear Martha, you're fussing far too much and getting yourself worked up over nothing. One thing only is essential, and Mary has chosen it - it's the main course, and won't be taken from her.'" Luke 10:38-42 (The Message)

Wow! Poor Martha scurried with every ounce of her being to make sure she was the "hostess with the most-ess," for Jesus. However, she missed the opportunity to sit before HIM. Could this be you this week or next week as Christmas Day draws near? I have been there for sure. However, with only seven days left in the Advent season, this passage is a timely reminder for us to stop and enjoy the presence of Christ in our lives. There is so much to thank him for. Resist the temptation to get drawn into the usual last minute frenzies that include things like running back to the mall to balance out the number of gifts you got Person A and Person B, or worse yet, because you realized you spent $100 dollars more on Child or Cousin A than Child or Cousin B. Maybe your frenzy includes stress over the number of green vegetables relative to the number of starches on the menu, or cakes versus pies or China versus paper plates. Whatever's driving your anxiety, take a minute to release it and choose NOT to sit at the head of the table or the base of the Christmas tree next Thursday(exhausted of course!), without having sat in the presence of our Lord and Savior this holiday season. Like Mary, sit at HIS feet, hang on to/meditate on HIS Word and HIS promises and well before the presents are unwrapped or the turkey is carved, receive your "main course," and the gifts that cannot be taken away.

Thank God for the gifts he gives all year long. Thank him for his only Begotten Son, thank him for the gift of eternal life, the gift of abundant life and the gift of salvation. It is easy slip into the preoccupations of Martha, but I hope you’ll join me in these last days leading up to the celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, in being more like Martha’s sister and resolve to have A Mary Christmas, because guess what? Jesus is visiting your home too!

God Bless.

READING THE SIGNS

I was reading my round of blogs last night and ran across a posting on "most memorable church signs." I've seen some really thought provoking ones over the years, but committed little to none of them to memory. But here are some from people who did:

"No God. No Peace. Know God. Know Peace."

"Sign broken. Come Inside for Message."

"Pray Until Something Happens."

"Don’t Make Me Come Down There – God."

"Need a lifeguard? Ours walks on water."

"Stop, drop and roll won’t work in hell."

"If you don’t believe in God you better KNOW hell doesn’t exist."

"Soul Food served here."

"Staying in bed shouting, “Oh God!” does NOT constitute going to church.”

"God answers knee-mail"

"Got faith?"

"Praying. It does a body good."

...and one I managed to recall:

"God invested in you. Have you shown him any interest?"


Okay just a few more (source)


"Does life stink? We have a pew for you!"

"What kind of person does God use? Details Sunday at 11:00 AM"

"Many who seek God at the eleventh hour die at 10:30."

"Prayer. The Best Wireless Connection."

"Cars are not the only thing being recalled by their maker."

"Swallowing pride will never give you indigestion."

"How will you spend eternity - Smoking or Non-Smoking?"

"Come in and let us prepare you for Finals."

BLAMELESS AND FAULTLESS

This week's "Get the Picture?" post came to mind while doing something I do rather rarely these days, ironing. I have used the same brand of spray starch for years and a couple of weeks ago, when I was getting ready to do some ironing, I reached for the can, saw the name and the wonderful love of God came rushing to mind.



"Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen" Jude 1:24-25

OVER THE HILL

Today is Daddy's birthday. The Big One. He is Four-O. Yes, forty! The boys and I started the morning with a few renditions of Happy Birthday. We'll do dinner tonight a party tomorrow and on and on and on until about Monday or Tuesday. I hope to make it special for him. In the meantime here's 40 things about the 40 year old, known around here as "Honey" and "Daddy."

1. I have known him 12 1/2 of his forty years.


2. We have been married 7 1/2 of those 12 1/2 years.


3. He wanted two boys.


4. He got 'em and he is craaazy about them.


5. He is not the least bit interested in sports, excpet the pee-wee teams Chase has played on.


6. He is the middle of five children.


7. The other four say he's his mother's favorite.


8. He is serious on the outside, but really an absolute RIOT, when you get to know him.


9. He loves to travel.


10. His greatest attribute is that he totally understands unconditional love. He has taught me a thing or two, about it.


11. He snores. Loud.


12. He blames it on me.


13. He was baptised for the first time, the night before we were married.


14. He knew what he was getting into.


15. Just kidding.


16. He is the real-life Bob the Builder.


17. His favorite hang-outs are Lowes and Home Depot.


18. He broke his leg in a tractor accident, nine months after we were married.


19. I missed my first day on a new job, while he had it surgically screwed back together. Ouch.


20. He was raised on a farm. His family raised cattle.


21. He helped his father build their family home.


22. He still has (and loves) his college car.


23. He loves to grill.


24. He is a wine enthusiast.


25. He would rather fly than drive.


26. He would rather eat out than in.


27. He was shot with a BB gun as a child.


28. The BB was still lodged in his finger until it was removed about five years ago.


29. He knows every fruit tree there is.


30. He is an accountant - publicly and privately.


31. He picked our first son's name.


32. Larry is NOT short for Lawrence. He would want you to know that.


33. He said he would never move to Atlanta.


34. Almost eleven years ago we moved to Atlanta.


35. He says he will never leave Atlanta. Oh yeah, and "he means it this time!"


36. I met him in Dallas, Texas.


37. Favorite food - meat.


38. Least Favorite food - veggies.


39. He also loves fruit.


40. He plans to retire at 52.

LIVE LIKE IT

"Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ." Philippians 1:27 (NIV)

"Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:1-2

"So, I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live like the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking." Ephesians 4:17 (NIV)

'Nuff said.

A MAMA'S PRAYERS

I pray for my little boys everyday. Last week, the Holy Spirit placed on my heart that I should be more specific in my prayers and also pray unselfishly for them. I began to pray, not only for my desires but that God's sovereign will reign in their lives and that each of them would be led in his own way to advance God's Kingdom. Chase is so loving and is a giver to his very soul, he would rather give than receive - really. Bryce is a strong, leader type who is extremely charismatic and bright. I am blessed beyond measure to have them and I know God can and will use them. While on my nightly computer time, I ran across a blog written by another mom who was being led to do the same thing. God is so good. He brought Angie and I together, virtually that is, because I had a need to know and she - already knowing that which I desired to know more about - did not keep it to herself, but answered the call to share.

Angie wrote this awesome post listing seven prayers a day we can pray for our children, at seven different times of the day - "When they wake up, When they are getting dressed, While they are eating, When they go out of the house, While they are taking a bath, When they are going to bed and While they are sleeping" - making it easy to remember.

I was blessed by this. As the boys grow and do different things throughout the day, or I am led to different scriptures based on their personalities, gifts and challenges I will change it up, but I see it lasting a lifetime. My plan is to head to my local scrapbook store and make some nice little memo cards to keep in my purse, so I can look at them throughout the day.

With 390 (yes, that's three-hundred-ninety) comments on Angie's post, lots of other moms are praying 7 prayers a day for their little ones too.

MY HEART TRANSFORMED

First, we decided on a church home. The next decision (mine) was that, wherever we landed, we would “be more involved,” this time. Looking back, this wasn’t a real substantive decision just one that said we would strive for regular attendance of Sunday service and sign the kids up for something fun and biblically educational.

As it turned out, our church requires the completion of four new member assimilation classes; the four classes cover seven lessons. A week after joining we started. It was the second class that became the catalyst for a life-altering change in my heart and life. In short, one half of the class focused on spiritual disciplines for spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of a quality relationship with God and identifying specific actions Christians should take to grow spiritually: Daily Quiet Time, Reading/Studying the Bible, Memorizing and Meditating on Scripture, Prayer and Stewardship. It changed my plan from what would have been a routine Sunday appointment to one of spiritual transformation that God intends. Even at that moment, I don’t think I was fully aware of the road I was about to take, but I was moved to set aside some time each day to read and study the Word of God.

The Lord led me to some devotional websites and I picked one to visit each morning. Before I started my day, Bible in hand, I visited the site, read the daily writing and studied through the scriptures outlined in that day’s devotion. Each day, I became more and more engrossed in the Word. I would often start to read a scripture and before I knew it, had completely read an entire book of The Bible. I recall studying in the New Testament and then, led by an interest in the historical events that were referenced there, I would flip to the Old Testament and read a book (or two) there. I read and studied and read and studied, progressively more each day. My heart was being transformed.

“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any two edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12, NIV)

Even though I said I was a Christian, I began to see that there were things in my life that were not in line with the will of God. It had never been clearer to me, that while I professed deep conviction and love with my mouth, I did NOT love the Lord with my life. God was revealing things to me that were previously masked by my own self righteousness (i.e. “I’m a good person.”) And a burden was laid on my heart to change them. I realized the magnitude of my sins. I realized that they were completely disrespectful to such an AWESOME God and they robbed me of the life he promises. I began to pray, take ownership and seek forgiveness. These words resonated with me: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-10). I set out to make a change.

I decided to fast, as a mark of re-dedication as well as to petition God for his strength and continued revelation in my new walk of faith. I called up a friend who has always been a strong believer and inquired about a fast I knew she’d done some weeks prior. She did not ask me anything about my situation, but agreed to fast and pray with me (I am thankful for God-Friends!). That was a pivotal week. Things were revealed to me and people were sent to me, confirming what I was studying and reading in Gods’ Word, my prayers were acknowledged by God and I knew beyond any doubt that He was ready to move mightily in my life.

That was almost three months ago that I set out only to find a church and found God. He met me there. And to speak to his kindness and grace and mercy it was not with a fire-and-brimstone sermon, but rather, the meek and humble words of a teacher that set me on FIRE for HIM. I am reminded of one of my favorite songs in which he is called “Gentle Redeemer.” That lesson led me to The Bible. Once there, I was convicted by the Living Word. Once convicted (and repentant and willing to change), God began his redemptive work in my life.

My Heart Transformed.

HOT SMARTY PANTS

Chase loves to change clothes. No less than five outfits a day – if I’d allow. He claims he gets hot and when he cools off and is ready to get re-dressed, he can't find his clothes. This is like a sport to him. I have recently told him if he can’t find his clothes, he has to wait until I can help him. No new outfits without my approval. Tonight in the middle of what I thought was a perfectly normal rendition of Old MacDonald he paused to take off his pants. I had not heard of any bottomless 4 year olds on the farm. I said “Chase, stop! What are you doing? Why are you taking your pants off? And don’t say you’re hot.” The house actually had a nice chill. So, he paused, I guess waiting for the right words. Once the words came, he began to take his pants off again, exclaiming “Mommy, I guess my BUTT is on FIRE!”

Oh, my!

ONLY ONE WAY

I'm having a little fun with ScripICtures. I totally made it up. I actually think it would be a good way to teach scripture to the boys (with more age appropriate images of course), but I've got some other ideas for it here, so check back next Saturday for what will be my weekly "Get The Picture? " post. Here's this weeks:

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6, KJV)

SEASON OF TRANSFORMATION

I am in a season of total transformation - My Heart, My Home (the basement is almost finished!) and now My Blog.

Darcy, designer extraordinaire at Graphically Designing and My 3 Boybarians worked her magic on my little piece of the blog-o-sphere and I just love it. The finished product is so much prettier than I could've ever imagined. I'm amazed at Darcy's talent. She took little tidbits of information that I shared with her, put it with her own know-how and hooked.me.up.

Watching the design come together was such a fun process. So fun, that I'll surely do it again.

SOMETHING ABOUT ME

I am a 37 year old Christian, wife and mother of two. My journey, simply described, is this: raised in the Church, wandered in the world, returned to the Lord (recently). I now seek to live genuinely, by the principles set forth in God’s Holy Word. I have always believed The Bible to be the inerrant and infallible Word of God and the final authority in every matter on which it speaks. But until recently, believing and doing were two separate things. I now aspire to practically apply HIS words to my daily living. You can read about the transformation of my heart here. Though I often fall short, I take each moment as a new opportunity to align myself with HIS will. I find extreme comfort in knowing that God is my biggest fan, that he honors my diligence, and he loves me unconditionally.

Speaking of love, I am “mommy” to two little boys that I absolutely adore. At ages 4 and 1, they give me daily doses of what I like to call Son-shine, filling my heart and life with infinite loads of love, laughter and laundry. I can’t imagine life without them; however, nothing in my journey prepared me for life with them. The amount of work and patience required of a parent is beyond anything I would've ever thought I was capable of doing and even now, I am a true work in progress. I have chased “balance” all over The Peach State (Georgia) and only now do I know that you can never truly attain it (because life is always changing), but God can give you a peace in your situation that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7), so that’s where I am on that – peacefully unbalanced. I try to be intentional in my parenting, focusing on those things that are most important. I don’t give myself a failing grade for not living up to everything else. This has been extremely liberating when it comes to Mommy Guilt. I now accept (fully) that, yes, I am sometimes frustrated with my own children, I will always have loads of laundry that don’t get folded and hot dog night does not make me bad mother. I am growing in God’s grace in this and all other aspects of my life, which speaks to the total power of prayer.

One of my favorite things to do is talk to the Lord in prayer; Formal and informal, public and private, frequent and fervent. On my knees, on my feet, in my closet, at my desk, in my car and in my home I am thankful to God for this privilege. It has solidified my relationship with him. And since I believe the most effective prayers are those rooted in scripture it has increased my desire to study HIS word, one hundred fold. I love to talk with God about his promises and to have him talk back to me (through revelations from HIS Word) about HIS will. I go to him in prayer, he sends me to HIS Word, I go back to him in prayer he sends me back to HIS Word, and I go back to him…..well, you get the point. Our conversations are awesome.

Since, I know personally the struggles of balancing the Mother Load; I am so very compassionate towards women in this season of life, particularly those with children still in the home. I have blogged about it, social networked about it and have overcome many-a-hurdle by the testimony of others. A couple of months ago, I stumbled upon a ministry where seasoned moms minister to newer moms based on Titus 2. I look forward to learning more about it and one day sharing it with moms I know.

Thanks for stopping by. I hope you are blessed, entertained, enlightened and that you decide to come back.

BEING A WIFE

Bible Study has progressed to our lesson on Being A Wife. Much of what is being discussed speaks to my heart, but speaking the loudest is this - LOVE IS AN ACTION. 7 1/2 years of marriage and I don't think I've ever really thought of it that way. It is something I have to learn and I discovered that God has been preparing me for this lesson, making my heart teachable, for at least a week.

While in the bookstore last week I purchased The Love Dare, a book based on the movie Fireproof. Fireproof, is the story of a firefighter who uses a 40-day experiment (the love dare) to save his failing marriage. The book is a "40-day challenge for husbands and wives to understand and PRACTICE unconditional love." I flipped through the book at the counter and thought it would be a fun exercise one that I would breeze through, because I’m already the perfect wife. I didn’t even tell Larry, I was just going to surprise him with 40 days of uninterrupted kindness. Well, I had no idea that not even ten pages in, it would reveal to me that I’m not so perfect after all. My confession to you is that I haven't even made it past Lesson 1 – Patience:

"Love is Patient. The first part of this dare is fairly simple. Although love is communicated in a number of ways, our words often reflect the condition of our heart. For the next day, resolve to demonstrate patience and to say nothing negative to your spouse at all. If the temptation arises, choose not to say anything. It's better to hold your tongue than to say something you'll regret."

By the end of day one, I completed the lesson, but I couldn’t believe how many opportunities I’d missed. I needed to spend some time on Patience, stopping and praying and asking God to conform my heart. This is where this week's "Being A Wife" became invaluable to me.

The first point:

1. Our relationship to our spouse is parallel to our relationship with the Lord. God has many times compared His relationship to the body of Christ to the relationship between a husband and wife.” Required Reading – 1 Corinthians 13.

“Love is patient, love is kind. I does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is no rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, It keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8

Do you ever just get embarrassed in the presence of God? I didn’t make it past the first three words.

The second point ACTION:

2. Love does not need to be felt in order to exist. IT IS AN ACTION.

How did that convict me? Well, whenever I lash out, my get out of jail free card is “I’m tired,” “I’m stressed,” “I’m overworked,” “I have two toddlers,” and on and on. But, I have to make a conscience decision even when I don’t feel like it, to show love and kindness towards my husband, building him up instead of tearing him down with words because I don't feel like playing nice. Nowhere in scripture does it make exceptions for stress, work or small children. This relates to something else God is dealing with me on - Discipline. Amy made a great point “God does not ask us to operate on emotions or to follow our hearts; we must lead our hearts to conform to God’s will.”

The final point was Prayer:

3. Prayer is the key to a long lasting, God filled marriage.

We should pray for the strength or our marriage, solutions to whatever is troubling you (instead of calling all your girlfriends) as well as cover our spouse in prayer so that he may carry out what God ordained him to do. Amy took the point on prayer to express another one. She wrote:

“I want to take this subject matter and use it as an opportunity to express another point: If you have an issue with your spouse, you have no right to speak of that issue to anyone else if you have not taken it to God in prayer and then your spouse. You are your husband’s helpmate. It does not help him if you do not pray on his behalf, not consult with him, or worse gossip about him to others.”

This was a God sent lesson for me. No matter how "right" you think you have it, whatever IT is, when you raise the standard of God’s word against it, you are humbled and your thoughts are forever transformed, I pray that my actions follow.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord" Isaiah 55:8

We are now studying Part 2 on Marriage (submission). It was not a part of our original plan but Amy felt led by God to take a deeper look into the marriage relationship. I am looking forward to it.!

A CLOSE CALL

The majority of the kids' toys are in our family room. There, they can play under my watchful eye, while I cook, clean and do various chores. Bryce's playpen is there, primarily for naps, but he climbs in and out of it, ooooh, a few hundred times a day. He can't get in or out without assistance, so Chase always gives him the necessary push/pull.

Today, Bryce's screams indicated he wanted out, again however, he was unwilling to do his usual part of climbing most of the way. This left Chase struggling to lift his almost 25-pound frame. Chase shouted, "Mommy, I can't get him out!" I offered to help, only after I pulled breakfast from the oven. I found their response (total silence) odd, especially since Bryce usually doesn't stop screaming until he gets exactly what he wants. Well, it was odd and it was not consent, as we sometimes think silence is.

Just as I turned towards the family room Chase was saying "That's okay [mommy], I'll just use this rope," at the same time he was preparing to wrap a belt around his fully cooperative brother's neck and hoist him from the playpen! Oh no!

I thought of the many times a day, I say "Thank you Lord," for keeping an innocent game, an intended good deed, or just plain curiosity, from turning into total tragedy; The answer is hundreds if not thousands. This is just my story, a few weeks ago, I witnessed a neighbor come that close to backing over his son in their driveway, as they were heading out to work and preschool.

Statistics on toddler accidents show that most of them occur at home and result in more deaths than childhood diseases. My prayer is that God continue to keep our home safe and keep me on my toes! Here is a very moving post and testimony on this topic.

ROOTS AND WINGS

"There are two lasting bequests we can give our children, one is Roots, the other is Wings!" ~ Hodding Carter

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This is one of my favorite quotes and today, I think, marked the beginning of both. Tonight at church, all interested parents registered their children for AWANA. The name - Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed - is derived from 2 Timothy 2:15.

"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15

AWANA is a 40 year old program, that meets weekly in churches nationwide to teach children ages 4 - 12th grade about the wonderful word of God! It focuses on building a good foundation through scripture memorization and biblical teaching via interactive learning activities. This is another answered prayer.

I love the Lord's faithfulness to His Word. If you read this post, you know my heart sank when Chase learned there was no group prayer before eating at school. I have been longing to have him in a more Bible based learning environment (i.e. Christian private school), but we have encountered some personal challenges around the execution of this desire - commute, costs, no vacancies at certain schools - to name a few; and then came AWANA.

"If you shall ask anything in my name, I will do it." John 14:4

During the course of my prayers about this over the past few weeks, came the announcement in our church bulletin. AWANA meets one night a week, and focuses on a set, age-appropriate curriculum, running parallel to the school year. Chase has already learned a tremendous amount through attending the less formal children's classes on Wednesday nights. I can only imagine what he will learn in a more formal program. We will even have the opportunity to participate, along with other member churches, in Bible Quizzes, Games & Talent Competitions. This reminds me so much of my VBS, BTU days growing up. A proper foundation is SO important as stated in the divine Book of Wisdom.

""Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6

With these Roots my heart will have peace when it is time to give them Wings.

Oh yeah, an added bonus: Children who complete the entire program receive an automatic $10,000 college scholarship.

TESTIMONY TUESDAY

Amy at In Pursuit of Proverbs 31 started a Bible Study a few weeks ago and I stumbled upon it last night.

I have been SOOO praying that GOD would lead me to a network of women (whether its 2 or 200), that I could study with - virtually, that is. I am not in a place right now where I can take on even one more brick and mortar commitment, but I yearn to know more and grow more in the Lord. He has been placing God-Friends all around me and Amy's Bible study is another answered prayer !


Amy asked that all participants answer the questions below:

What do you hope to get out of this Bible study?
I am seeking to know more about what GOD intends for me as a Christian wife and mother. It is a crazy challenge! But I know that for every life circumstance and condition there is an anointed Word from the Lord - I am seeking to know more about that.

What if anything, has prevented you from studying these scriptures in the past?
I have read P31 and heard women speak on these scriptures many times, but that was well before I became a wife a mother or truly committed in my walk with the Lord; For all those reasons, it is much more relevant to me now.

What have you found helpful or frustrating about living out these scriptures?
Frustrating - The Balancing Act, which I often find myself on the unBalanced end of.

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You can see the outline for our Lesson Plan here

LITTLE DANNY BOY

Bryce has decided not to be called well, uh, Bryce. He has, in one day, one hour, changed his first name.

He is the social butterfly in our family and unlike the rest of us introverts, he never meets a stranger. He's had plenty of experience in meeting people and somewhere along the way, he decided he likes the hand-shaking part best! So he often extends his hand to start a conversation.

Chase, who is very obviously the child of two accountants, is much more reserved. But, he goes along for the meet and greets with his brother, mostly because he is very protective of him and wants to be wherever he is; A strange dynamic in the whole sibling relationship, best described as The 'I'll knock the crap out of him but you don't touch my brother!' Syndrome.

A typical stranger-meet starts off with Bryce begging the attention of an innocent bystander by babbling and extending his hand. Chase wanders over, to check out the scene and usually gives a handshake with a shy, barely audible "Hi, my name is Chase." Apparently, Bryce thinks "Hi, my name is Chase," is a scripted line and when asked his name he says, (you guessed it) "Chase." I started working with him to change that.

"Your name is not Chase," I say. "Your name is Bryce." He just looks at me with this silly laugh and hides his face. He will not say Bryce - ever. He calls himself Dani. So, Dani it is, that's how he introduces himself, he answers to it without fail and until he says different, I guess that's what we'll call him. [exhale!] Good thing I hadn't invested too much in my favorite personalized gifts from Pottery Barn Kids.

A PERFECT SUNDAY

Daily Bread -

Scriptures that got me through:

"I have been young and now I'm old; Yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken, Nor his descendants begging bread. (Psalms 37:25)

"Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!" Psalms 47:10

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Brotherly Luv -

The boys loving on each other while I get ready for church. I cherish these moments. No arguments and violent fits over armless, headless, figure men. 2-Cute!!!










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Speaking of Bread....

Tomorrow I have to take a favorite family recipe to Chase's school (a day late, of course - it was due Friday, oops) His teacher is compiling a cookbook for the holiday season. I am looking forward to it. I love to eat some of the favorite foods of my childhood as well as prepare our house favorites - one of which is the Pumpkin Loaf. I thought I would pass it along here.


I store my "best of" recipes in a recipe box I received as a gift at one of my bridal showers, 7 1/2 years ago now - WOW!!! The box is inscribed with The Fruit of the Spirit:

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."(Galatians:22-23).

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And some other quotes:


"Those who wish to transform the world, must be able to transform themselves."

"The joyful heart is always ready to count life's blessings."

"The true measure of loving God is to love him without measure."

"Nothing is so strong as gentlessness: Nothing is so gentle as real strength."

"Every good work is a grain of seed for eternal life."

"True Peace is knowing God will do what he promises."

"Patience is having the strength to wait for the Lord's perfect timing."

"Faith is the blossom that springs forth the seeds of hope."

"Gather seeds of kindness: Plant each with tender care."

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Oh yeah, the recipe!

Pumpkin Loaf

Instructions for the loaf:

3 eggs
1 cup of sugar
2/3 cup of canned Pumpkin
3/4 cup of flour
1 teaspoon of baking soda
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts
Powdered Sugar (sprinkle a towel large enough to hold the finished cake, with powdered sugar)

Grease 10x15 cookie sheet. Line w/wax paper, grease again. Mix batter in the order of ingredients given. Beat eggs, sugar, then add pumpkin. Sift together flour, soda, cinnamon & salt and add to egg/sugar/pumpkin mixture. Spread batter in pan, sprinkle w/nuts. Bake 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Turn out on a towel that has been sprinkled w/ Powdered Sugar. Roll up in towel w/wax paper & let cool.


Instructions for the filling:

1 (8 oz.) cream cheese
2 Tbsps. Butter, softened
3/4 tsp of vanilla
1 cup of sifted powdered sugar

Cream ingredients w/mixer until smooth. Unroll cake and remove wax paper spread filling over cake. Roll back up & wrap in waxpaper/foil. Store in fridge.

Happy Baking,

MY PURSE PROFILE

I Took the Test

What Your Handbag Says About You

You are concerned with how you appear. Projecting your high status is important to you. You tend to be relaxed throughout the day. You are naturally at peace. You are a high maintenance person. You feel lost outside of your normal environment. You are a very creative person. Your life tends to be a whirlwind, but you always seem to pull it together. You are practical and down to earth. You tend to be a rather reserved and quiet person.

What Does Your Handbag Say About You?

MY SISTERS KEEPER

I attended my first Corporate Diversity Committee meeting yesterday. I enjoyed being in a meeting filled with kindred spirit. You could feel the girl-power at the door. I was one of nine women and likely the least experienced in this initiative. I sat there SO praising GOD for both my Right Now (meaning, HIS allowing this opportunity to happen to me) and my Not Yet (meaning, I know HE has a bigger plan for me).

The highlight for me, was when as a part of our "what we hope to achieve" brainstorming session, one of the more experienced women on the team shared the theory of TURN and PULL. The idea is simple: an organization of women can rise, if as each one advances, she Turns back and Pulls one or more women along with her. I played that over and over in my head. I liked it and I saw it not only as a charge to elevate women at our company and in the corporate-world over, but likewise in the Kingdom of God.

Of course in the context of God the desires differ, they are focused on a strong relationship with HIM and a servants heart - rather than the rise to some C-level (e.g. CEO, CFO, CIO, COO) position of envied authority; But the concept is still applicable. GOD's word charges women to be responsible for each other, teaching one another in spiritual and practical matters (Titus 2:3-5). Turn and Pull. Turn and Pull.

That says to me: Becoming a Proverbs 31 Woman takes a Titus 2 Support System. I think this is a call to action, ladies, we are indeed our Brothers Sister's Keeper.

Who will you TURN and PULL?

"The aged woman likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed." (Titus 2:3-5)

A THOUSAND WORDS

A Thousand Words? That means it's mostly picture day here on the blog.

Here, Chase and Larry headed out to Texas a full day ahead of Bryce and me, to do some male bonding. Chase caught his FIRST fish, and two more after that. He was so darn excited, he could hardly form a sentence to tell me what he'd done. He eventually got it out "Mommy! Mommy! I catched a fish, three of 'em!" he said.

BOYS TO MEN

Friday's "Man Trip" started with breakfast and a trip to Dad's office.

Chase's favorite part was the spinning chair. He has no concept of the years of hard work it takes to get an "Executive" chair. When you think about that, it highlights the craziness of the corporate world. AfterI read the book Three Big Questions for a Frantic Family, Larry & I discussed our personal and family priorities. Both money and material things (while nice and enjoyable - I love a good name brand purse) were so low on both our lists, we surprised each other. I am so glad we agree that our true treasures are in Heaven!!!

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21, NIV)

Anyway, this was a fun time for both Larry and Chase and I am convinced that there are some things that are just easier for a Man to teach a Boy, so I pray for this relationship daily and I am looking forward to Bryce joining the fun.

GO DADDY GO

I don't have daughters, I am blessed with two sons, and they are wonderfully blessed with an awesome father. They adore him and he - them. I also have an adorable niece - "B"- that gives me my girl-fix.

I have found that, once you become a parent you pray for all children - for their well-being and also that they have parents and loved ones who adore them as much as we do the precious babies in my family. Here is a totally cute video from You Tube, meant to highlight the importance of involved Dads; And for those of you with daughters, here's another website you might like.

Say a prayer of thanksgiving and for the well being of all the children God has placed in your life, today.

Enjoy!!!

"Lo, children are a heritage [gift] from the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward" Psalm 127:3

THREE SCORE & TEN

My mother-in-law is celebrating her 70th birthday today.

Larry, the kids and I will attend the official celebratory bash this weekend in Larry's hometown (Marshall, TX.). We are looking forward to some fishing, 4-wheeler riding and good BBQ - sounds like the recipe for a Texas Good Time.

Chase is so excited. He's been talking about it to everyone - the teacher, the barber, the grocery store clerk and just about anyone who will listen - all week long. Along with their cousins, Chase and Bryce will perform a special birthday song for Granny. Bryce, is not yet able to say or sing words as long as "celebration," but to compensate he will serve as back-up dancer. He has been brushing up on his dance steps the past few nights and has the word "Whoo Hoo!" down pact. Right now, he is a dancing-prancing-whoo-hoo machine.

Bryce often gets actively involved in Praise & Worship at church, so he tends to Praise & Worship at the sound of ALL music. I noticed last night when he and Chase were practicing their performance, that even though it's not a Gospel song, he was doing a little "shouting" anyhow. I suspect, he'll steal the show when he closes his eyes, shakes his head and lifts his hands towards heaven (to Kool and The Gang). But that's okay, with his Granny being 70 years young, we all have something to give Praise & Thanksgiving to the Lord about. Go 'head praise him baby.

By the way, we will also get to see Nana & PawPaw (my parents) and Niece Brailey. They are making the 3-hour drive to join the celebration. Whoo-Hoo!

"The days of our lives are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow, for it is soon cut off, and we fly away." (Psalms 90:10).

NO PRAYING ALLOWED

We start every meal with a prayer at home. Chase is pretty well disciplined and says his mealtime prayers along with a Bible verse (“Jesus wept,” John 11:35) often. There are times he wants to eat right away, until we stop and have him back-it-up and bless his food.

Recently, Chase charged the dinner table like he hadn’t eaten in months. I had to slow him down with my “say your verse or you’ll get a tummy ache,” speech. A confused look appeared on his face and I thought he was preparing to debate me on my tummy ache assertion. Not able to articulate what confused him, I helped him.

“Why are you looking like that?” I asked. “Ms. Laurie said we don’t do that," he responded. “Don’t do what?” I questioned. He lowered his head and said “Pray.” My heart sank; Oh yeah I thought, he is in a public school environment. He told me the classroom rules - remain quiet until your food is served and say please and thank you, “but not prayers,” he finished.

For this and other reasons I vowed to find a Christian school, but God said “Wait a minute. Remember, this is your responsibility, first.” Christian school should act as reinforcement to what Chase is receiving at home. We don’t live in a Private Christian World and whether he attends Christian School or not, it is our job as parents to give him the foundation to stand on God’s word everywhere.

Everyday is an opportunity for us to teach more and pray more and say more to our Children about God’s word. In parenting God has given us both tremendous responsibility and opportunity! I told Chase that he was free to say an individual prayer without permission or class participation; Go ahead....pray baby.

“Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it” Proverbs 22:6

THE ECONOMIC CRY-SIS

Admittedly, the recent developments in our economy, have left me wondering whether the bad guys will just get rich and walk away, despite their bad decisions, bad intentions and massive profits; Wondering about those of us who are always careful to do the right thing, those of us who wouldn't so much as dream of being this reckless and dishonest? Do we get left holding the bag - the worthless, empty rescue bag?

It's a crying shame. I have engaged in countless discussions with friends and family, but ultimately, I went where I knew there was an answer for our current state of confusion - God's Word - where every life circumstance and condition is addressed. I started with a familiar scripture (Galatians 6:7), that I learned in Vacation Bible School as a teenager and have never forgotten.

God's word is clear that there are consequences for our actions. No person on this earth - as HE is not mocked - will fail to reap what they have sown. I found it comforting to read the words that God gives on how we should react in distressing times and his promise of what His children will receive. We are not to become discouraged but rather, reassured in our reward of everlasting life! Now, that's ahhh'right with me - smile :)

"For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" Mark 8:36

"Be not deceived for God is not mocked. Whatsover a man soweth, that shall he reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit, shall reap life everlasting. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." Galatians 6:7-9

HOME SWEET HOME

We are so blessed that the Lord has led us to a church home. We diligently sought deliverance from our self described serial-visitation and after what seemed like an endless search, we are very excited to be members of Elizabeth Baptist Church, Pastor Craig L. Oliver

Elizabeth is a LARGE church (e.g 11,000 members), which initially concerned me, but we feel so embraced and comfortable there. This church has such a "small church" personality with a lot of opportunities to fellowship and serve, and you feel as though you are amongst old friends from Day One. Pastor Oliver is a dynamic minister and leader and as evidenced by our experience thus far, he is accompanied by an equally strong and spirit - filled ministry staff. We have spent the last three weeks in our New Members Classes (three down, one to go) where we've heard some anointed words from the Lord and met some very inspiring people. The kids love it too, especially Chase. Each Sunday, he heads anxiously to Children's Church where he engages in his own learning activities and conversations about Jesus.

During our phase of serial visitation, I ran across an awesome blog - SisterHill.com. The young lady who started this site lives in Atlanta and is searching for a church home for herself and her young daughter. I think she has done a great job of outlining and speaking to some key points that are often considered when searching for a place of worship to call home like, location, service times, denomination, church size, children's programs and much more. If you are in the Atlanta area, her site can be very helpful to you, and if not, perhaps you might be inspired to do something similar in your city or state.

"And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is, but exhorting one another and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." Hebrews 10:24-25

MOM 2 MOM

Eager to share this Moms Ministry with you guys (as soon as I get all studied up).

In the interim I am participating in an online study group at IPOP 31 (In Pursuit Of Proverbs 31) I'll share my learnings and blessings as we progress. Here's our 10-week lesson plan (yes, a lesson plan, Amy rocks!)

1. Proverbs 31 - Shattering the Myths
2. The True Woman of Proverbs 31
3. Proverbs 31 on Relationships with God
4. Proverbs 31 on Being a Wife
5. Proverbs 31 on Being a Mother
6. Proverbs 31 on Management
7. Proverbs 31 on Resourcefulness
8. Proverbs 31 on Ministry
9. Proverbs 31 on Matters of the Soul
10. Proverbs 31 and You

CONTACT ME

PHOTOS

PRAYERS

My first cousin (Marcus), is currently hospitalized. Pray that the Lord restore his health.

"I pray for you, you pray for me and watch God change things." from the song Be Blessed by Bishop Paul Morton. Click on song title to hear.

With less than 30 days left until our Presidential Election, let's start praying for our elected leader; whomever that may be.

"I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead peaceable lives in all godliness and honesty." 1 Timothy 2: 1-2

100 THINGS I'VE DONE

Lisa Q posted this and I thought it was a fun thing to do. Everything in BOLD CAPS, I've done. If you post this leave a comment, so I can check out your list.

1. STARTED YOUR OWN BLOG.
2. Slept under the stars.
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii.
5. Watched a meteor shower.
6. GIVEN MORE THAN YOU CAN AFFORD TO CHARITY.
7. BEEN TO DISNEY LAND. Been to Disney World
8. Climbed a mountain.
9. Held a praying mantis.
10. SANG A SOLO.
11. Bungee jumped.
12. VISITED PARIS.
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea.
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch.
15. Adopted a child.
16. HAD FOOD POISONING.
17. WALKED TO THE TOP OF THE STATUE OF LIBERTY.
18. GROWN YOUR OWN VEGETABLES.
19. SEEN THE MONA LISA IN FRANCE.
20. Slept on an overnight train.
21. HAD A PILLOW FIGHT.
22. Hitch hiked.
23. TAKEN A SICK DAY WHEN YOU'RE NOT SICK.
24. Built a snow fort.
25. Held a lamb.
26. Gone skinny dipping.
27. Run a marathon.
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice.
29. Seen a total eclipse.
30. WATCHED A SUNRISE OR SUNSET.
31. Hit a home run.
32. Been on a cruise.
33. Seen Niagra Falls in person.
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors.
35. Seen an Amish community.
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. HAD ENOUGH MONEY TO BE TRULY SATISFIED.
38. Seen the leaning tower of Pisa in person.
39. Gone rock climbing.
40. Seen Michelangelo's David.
41. SUNG KARAOKE.
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt.
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant.
44. Visited Africa.
45. WALKED ON A BEACH BY MOONLIGHT.
46. Been transported in an ambulance.
47. HAD YOUR PORTRAIT PAINTED.
48. Gone deep sea fishing.
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person.
50. BEEN TO THE TOP OF THE EIFFEL TOWER IN PARIS.
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling.
52. Kissed in the rain.
53. Played in the mud.
54. GONE TO A DRIVE-IN THEATER.
55. Been in a movie.
56. Visited the Great Wall of China.
57. STARTED A BUSINESS.
58. Taken a martial arts class.
59. Visited Russia.
60. Served in a soup kitchen.
61. SOLD GIRL SCOUT COOKIES.
62. Gone whale watching.
63. Gotten flowers for no reason.
64. Donated blood, platelets, or plasma.
65. Gone sky diving.
66. Visited a Nazi concentration camp.
67. BOUNCED A CHECK.
68. Flown in a helicopter.
69. SAVED A FAVORITE CHILDHOOD TOY.
70. VISITED THE LINCOLN MEMORIAL.
71. Eaten caviar.
72. Pieced a quilt.
73. STOOD IN TIMES SQUARE.
74. Toured the Everglades.
75. BEEN FIRED FROM A JOB.
76. Seen the changing of the guards in London.
77. Broken a bone.
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle.
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person.
80. Published a book.
81. Been to the Vatican.
82. BOUGHT A BRAND NEW CAR.
83. Walked in Jerusalem.
84. HAD YOUR PICTURE IN THE PAPER.
85. Read the entire Bible.
86. Visited the White House.
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating.
88. HAD CHICKEN POX.
89. Saved someone's life.
90. Sat on a jury.
91. MET SOMEONE FAMOUS.
92. JOINED A BOOK CLUB.
93. LOST A LOVED ONE.
94. HAD A BABY.
95. SEEN THE ALAMO IN PERSON.
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake.
97. BEEN INVOLVED IN A LAWSUIT.
98. OWNED A CELL PHONE.
99. Been stung by a bee.
100. READ AN ENTIRE BOOK IN ONE DAY.