Thankful Thursday

I am going to veer off of the path a little bit today, and instead of sticking with the theme for today on Iris' Thankful Thursday post, I am going to share what's on my heart. (Didn't expect any less from me, did you?? ;-))

What (or rather, who) I am most thankful for today is my grandmother.
We call her "Mammy".She is 83 years old and is still as fun, and feisty as she ever was!! I spoke to her on the phone this morning, and as we chatted for over an hour, I realized that she would be the subject of my thankful post for today.

Growing up, I always saw her as a wonderful model of a Christian wife and mother. Sticking to her husband's side through thick and thin, and cherishing the treasures of each one of her five children. When I was about twelve, a devastating loss hit our family. Her youngest daughter (my Dad's sister) was killed in a tragic car accident, along with her own eight year old daughter and husband. It was a terrible time. But through Mammy's grief, I saw the beautiful portrait of her faith. She held on to Jesus and truly was able to praise Him through the storm.

When my grandfather (Pappy) died several years ago, I once again witnessed the strength and comfort that she drew from her Savior.

Up until this past summer, for many years, she has accompanied my extended family on our summer vacations to Sunset Beach, NC. Never failing to provide her scrumptious "chewy cakes" and delectable chicken salads, and pimento cheese (I am not even going to get started on her Spaghetti and cheese biscuits, or her Country Style Steak!!!) to be enjoyed throughout the week. She will clean your clock in Spades and Scrabble, and is nothing less than a joy to sit with out on the screened porch and chat away the hours while enjoying the view of the ocean on the horizon.

Since my parents live over an hour away, when I started my own family, she became my "go-to girl". When Emilee was 7 months old, Mammy was the one that trained me to put her to bed on her own, and give up the restless hours in the rocker. When Jacob had cholic, Mammy was the one who reassured me daily that "this too shall pass". And last year, when I was so worried about Sam and his speech, she is the one that said "Don't worry Baby, he'll come right along...just you wait and see". And she was right...every.single.time. Having raised five children of her own, I consider her an "authority" on the matter and never give a second thought to calling her for advice.

She has also encouraged me over the years to appreciate the wonderful gift of my husband. She loves him as one of her own, and has been known to provide meals and company for him on the rare occasions that the children and I are away from home.

Mammy is truly a treasure. And this morning, as we were chatting about lantana bushes, and family matters, and James chapter 1, it dawned on me how very blessed I am to have her in my life. She is a constant source of inspiration and encouragement to me, and she will never know the impact that she has had on my life. I love her dearly, and I am so thankful to Jesus for allowing me the honor and the privilege to have her as my Mammy.

Who are you thankful for today?...

Head on over to Sting My Heart's blog, and tell us all about it!

May Day Week 16

I can't believe it's been 16 weeks since we started this challenge!  I have to say that I have not done as well as I expected.  I don't know if it was the "summer time" factor, or what...but I just wasn't as disciplined and focused on this journey as I would like to have been.  It's been quite a ride of ups and downs, just to say that I am right back where I was when we started.

BUT!!!  I am not a quitter, so I am going to stick with it to the end (Sept 15) and beyond!!!  This week I have recruited a real-life accountability partner, and we are starting over...TODAY!!!

In order to gain back the control that has escaped me over the last couple of months, I have decided to make gradual weekly changes, so that hopefully by "layering" the discipline, I will have better success at achieving good eating/health habits.

This week, my goal is to get 8 glasses of water every day, and cut out all sweets.  The plan is to do this for 7 days to get my body ready for the South Beach plan next week, and at least two days of walking each week.  I am going to try and implement some activity time during this week, too...but I am saving the "commitment"  aspect for a future goal, so as not to overwhelm myself.  I have a habit of going "whole hog" just to find that I have fallen off the wagon within just a few short weeks.  Again, like the tortoise, I believe for me that "slow and steady wins the race".

I am also going to begin each day with prayer time, dedicating my plans and my schedule to the One who created me and knows me better than anyone.  I know that by giving Him First Place in my life, I will have no choice but to be successful.

For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on.  Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?  Look at the birds of the air, that hey do not sow or reap or gather into barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them.  Are you not much more than they?...

Do not worry then, saying "What will we eat?" or "What will we drink?" or "What will we wear for clothing?"  For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your Heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His Kingdom, and His Righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

(Matthew 6: 25-26, 31-33)

How about you??? How did you do this week??? Do you have some new goals to share, or a re-commitment to voice?  Stop by Tales from the Scales and let us know!!

We Now Return to Our Regularly Scheduled Program...

Okay, now that all the MK partying has played out, and I have gotten back into the swing of the school routine, I plan to get back to my day-to-day posting.
I have really missed my scheduled blogging and I can't wait to get back to it tomorrow with the MAY DAY weigh-in report (which will probably stink, but hey...it's all about accountability, right??).
Also look for my next installment of the I AM Study...coming soon.
I just have to say that I had a great day with my friend Paula. She came over early this morning to help me with some of the ins and outs of my MK business, and I helped her with her blog. (Maybe one day we'll be doing podcasts like Boo Mama and Big Mama!) We ended up having lunch together, and can I just say I LOVE THIS GIRL!!! She is such a blessing to me, and I am thankful to have such a godly woman as a friend and mentor. YOU ROCK GIRLFRIEND!
I have been doing really well with my Fly Lady Baby Steps, and my house is testifying to that fact. (That's right!! Can't you hear it shoutin' Yahoo-Jah???) Right this very moment, even as I type, my sink is shining!!!
But! There is a load of laundry on my bed begging to be folded before I call it a day, so for that reason I need to say, in the immortal words of the Von Trapp children...

So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, good night
I hate to go and leave this pretty sight

So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, adieu
Adieu, adieu, to yieu and yieu and yieu

Catch y'all on the flip side!!!!

Mystery Solved!

Thanks to all of you who participated in my Mary Kay Web Party!!! (Both Blogistas and Email Sisters!!) 26 of you sent in an RSVP...that was awesome!!

And now the moment you've all been waiting for!!! Here are the winners of the Mystery Hostess Prizes:

1st Prize:
The Hostess Gift -  Everything Tote goes to SHARON HOLLADAY!

2nd Prize:
JENNIFER HOWLE receives  a gift certificate for $75 worth of product for $25!

Grand Prize:
And the winner of the 10% of total sales in credit towards her next purchase, is DIANN MCDUFFIE!!

Congratulations to all the winners, and thanks again to everyone for coming to the party! ...and for your patience in solving the "mystery"!!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!!

It's Still a Mystery!!

Okay gang...

I have had several calls and emails asking for a little more time, as well as a few RSVPs that said they weren't sure if they would be able to get online tonight or not, so I have decided to EXTEND THE PARTY!!!

Especially since the GRAND PRIZE is 10% of TOTAL SALES in FREE PRODUCTS, we want to be sure and get plenty of bang for your buck! So here's the deal...

Anyone else who places an order on my website THRU FRIDAY AUGUST 24 (12:00 Midnight EST) will be entered to win!!! And here's what you can do to help...GET THE WORD OUT!!! Seriously!!! Call/email your friends, sisters, mothers, daughters, and ANYONE that you think may be interested and invite them to shop , too!!!

All orders placed tonight will be processed and delivered/shipped ASAP...so don't worry...you WON'T have to wait on your products!!

Anyway, what good would a Mystery Party be if it didn't keep you sitting on the edge of your seat???

Hang in there...it will all unravel soon!

Thankful Thursday - PRAISE

Psalm 150

1 Praise the LORD. ^[a]
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens.

2 Praise him for his acts of power;
praise him for his surpassing greatness.

3 Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet,
praise him with the harp and lyre,

4 praise him with tambourine and dancing,
praise him with the strings and flute,

5 praise him with the clash of cymbals,
praise him with resounding cymbals.

6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD.

I am going to use the word PRAISE as an acrostic for my "thankfuls" today:

P - I am thankful for God's PROVISION. No matter what, no matter where, He is always there for me. "His loving kindness never fails and his mercies are new every morning"!

R - I am thankful that my God REIGNS!!! More and more every day I am learning to relinquish control over my life, and surrender each task, each moment, each experience to His Lordship. Life is never better than when you truly submit yourself to Jesus!

A - I am thankful that my Jesus is AWESOME and ALMIGHTY! Don't believe me??? Just look around you!! His creation declares his glory and majesty. The other day on the way to church we saw a peacock!! Just walking around at the end of someone's driveway!(My husband didn't believe me, and said it was a turkey...but when we turned around to take another look it was a PEACOCK!!!) I just love it when he shows up and shows out!!

I - I am thankful for all of the INSPIRATIONAL people that God has placed in my life. My husband, my parents, my precious friends, my pastor and his wife, and my church family. They are all wonderful examples to me and in each his/her own way they "spur me on" in the faith.

S - I am thankful for the SPECIAL BLESSINGS that God lavishes upon me. Apart from the most wonderful gift of my salvation, He has blessed me with a loving husband (I know, I've mentioned him already...but HE'S DA BOMB!!! And he deserves more love, honor, and respect that I could ever possibly show him, no matter how hard I try!) my beautiful children, precious Sisters in the Faith, a lovely home, good health, and His Holy Spirit to guide me and protect me.

E - I am thankful for ETERNITY in, with, and through my Jesus!! I am constantly in a state of awe, that even if I had been the only person on the planet, he would still have chosen the cross! I mean that much to Him, and HE MEANS EVERYTHING TO ME!!!

Just a few more:

• I am thankful for a great first week of school. The children have awakened every morning full of excitement and are smiling and laughing when I pick them up each day.
• I am thankful for the RAIN!!! Our poor ground was SO THIRSTY and we needed some relief from the heat!!!
• I am thankful for The Fly Lady. She is really helping me get over my perfectionist self and restore order and happiness to my home!
• I am thankful for everyone who has participated in my MK Web Party! You guys ROCK!
  

So what are you thankful for?? Get on over to Sting My Heart and GIVE HIM YOUR PRAISE!!!

Run, Don't Walk!!

Head on over to The Preacher's Wife to find out all about how you could win this!!!

It's the coolest give-away yet!!...And boy do we need "cool" in this heat!!

Let's Party!!!

*************************************************************************************
THIS IS A STICKY POST...
It will remain at the top of my blog until Aug. 22.
Please scroll down for newest entries!!
THANKS!
*************************************************************************************

You are invited to an ONLINE E-Party!!!
When: Tuesday August 21, 2007
Where: My MK Website
Time: 6:00 - 9:00 PM (EST)

Here is all you have to do:

• Get comfortable! You can even shop in your jammies!
• Visit my Mary Kay Personal Website.
• View and shop for the latest and greatest in Mary Kay Products.
• Don't forget upcoming birthdays, weddings, and anniversary gifts! (Let me know and I will even gift-wrap for you for FREE!)
• All orders will come directly to me and will not be part of any mega list sold to other companies. I will personally confirm your order and arrange for shipping via email.
• You can even PAY ONLINE!
• It's so easy and fun, plus you will be ordering from the #1 BEST SELLING Brand of Skin Care and Color Cosmetics for the past 14 years! WOW!!! It's so great to try these wonderful products and know they are 100% satisfaction guaranteed!
• THE BEST PART OF ALL: It's a "Mystery Hostess Party" which means three of you lucky participants will be entered into a drawing to win one of the following hostess gifts:

1. An Everything Tote! This awesome little tote bag is perfect for a weekend getaway, or to organize your home/office necessities.
2. $75 in Product for only $25!!! That's $50 FREE!!
3. 10% of the total party sales in FREE PRODUCTS!!
   

• All you have to do to be entered to win one of these FABULOUS PRIZES is place an RSVP comment on THIS POST! And...if you would like to DOUBLE your chances of winning simply visit my website (sometime before the actual event) and register as a customer!
  
• I will post all three winners at 9:15 pm (EST) on August 21.
  

It's just that easy!! So don't wait another second!! Sign up today!!

I am so excited and I can't wait to PARTY with you all!!

Y'all Come Back Now...You Hear????

Just wanted to remind everyone (hopefully this comes through in your RSS feed reader) about the BLOG PARTY going on RIGHT HERE tomorrow night!!! Don't forget to RSVP on THIS POST to be entered for FABULOUS PRIZES!!! We're gonna have SO MUCH FUN!!!! See you then!

Back to School!

My babies started school today. 

Emilee began 2nd Grade, and Jacob (5K) is officially at "Big School" with his sister.  They were both very excited, and got dressed most efficiently this morning.  (If only that would last all year!!)

We got their new book bags, and other school supplies and were headed out the door at 7:15!  Daddy slowed us down a bit (its okay...we were WAY early) with some camera shots of the big day.

Since they are both on the same hall this year (Jacob's class is actually at the very end of the 2nd grade hall right next to the Kindergarten wing) we dropped Miss Em off first. Her teacher greeted her with open arms (God has truly blessed us with WONDERFUL teachers this year!!!) She was so excited to see her name on her desk, and got right to putting her supplies away. 

Then we walked down to Jake's classroom and he totally surprised me by walking right in, and finding his hook for his book bag.  (Last night before bed, he told me that he was a little afraid of going to a new school, with a new teacher, and new friends.  I asked him what we thought he should do about it, and he said "Pray for courage".  So we quoted Joshua 1:9 and prayed...OBVIOUSLY GOD ANSWERED!!)

I am so proud of them (and of myself, I didn't cry until I got back to my van!!) for the way they began their first day of school.  I can't wait to pick them up and hear all about their new adventures!!

I was blessed by this scripture today... (Psalm 103:17-18)

17 But from everlasting to everlasting
       the LORD's love is with those who fear him,
       and his righteousness with their children's  children-

18 with those who keep his covenant
       and remember to obey his precepts.

My prayer for this school year is that my children will not only bloom and grow where they have been planted, but that they will leave a lasting impact on their friends, their teachers, and their school through their love for the Lord, and the faith of our home.

Thank you Jesus for a wonderful day!!

What Time is It???

We just finished watching the Disney Channel Premier of High School Musical 2, and I just have to say, I was not disappointed! Kenny Ortega provided another thoroughly entertaining ride of catchy tunes and awesome dance routines!

My kids are HUGE FANS of the original High School Musical, and often do their own "productions" using the soundtrack. Jake can even sing harmony!! (Which TOTALLY impresses me at age five!)

Emilee was so excited about watching her BFF Ashley Tisdale (Sharpay) in yet another Disney feature, we had to make a big "event" out of it and order in so we could be sure we didn't miss one.single.second!!

And watch out Zac Efron (Troy) cause Jacob was bustin' some sick moves of his own during the movie.

Sam even got in on the fun and danced around the room during the baseball number "I Don't Dance" featuring Corbin Bleu (Chad) and Lucas Grabeel (Ryan).

My favorites were "You are the Music in Me" and of course the opening number "What Time is It". I am sure that we will have both of these (and more) memorized very soon, since the movie will re-airing on both Saturday and Sunday evenings at 8/7c, as part of the "Premier Weekend Celebration" on Disney Channel.

Here's an interesting twist though, the musical (all about getting out of school for summer vacation) premiered this weekend...our LAST weekend of summer. School starts Monday.

Until then "What time is it??? Summer time...It's our vacation!"

An RSS SOS!!!

Alright everyone, I need your help!!! 

My KISA and I have a friendly little competition going on regarding the number of people who view/subscribe to our blogs.  Yesterday I was at 32, and he was at 33.  Today I am up to 35!!!!...but HE is up to 36!! It seems that no matter what, he is always one up on me!!

So this is where you come in.  If you are a regular reader/visitor here at Truly Captivating and you have never subscribed, PLEASE HELP A SISTAH OUT!! All you have to do is click on the button that matches the huge orange replica above (right up under the "About Me" section in my sidebar) and follow the instructions.  This is assuming (yeah, yeah, I know all about "assuming") that you each have a blog reader in place such as Google Reader or Bloglines.

If you have no idea what I am talking about, this post and the video included are the best resources I can think of to teach you all about it.  And no, the irony of it all does not escape me!!  That will just make the victory taste all the more sweet at the moment when I can look my Stupid Programmer in the eye, and say from the bottom of my heart "Nana nana boo boo!!!"

Y'all have a great weekend now, you hear???

Thankful Thursday - Dancing

Dancing?? Did you really say DANCING, Iris???

OH, I JUST LOVE YOU!!!

I know I have done "praise music" posts before, but I just can NOT help myself here...

I AM SO VERY THANKFUL that Jesus BROKE MY CHAINS, and TOOK THE SHACKLES OFF MY FEET so I CAN DANCE!!!

Come on ya'll!! Sing it with me!!! And get your praise groove on!!!

In the corners of mind
I just can't seem to find a reason to believe
That I can break free
Cause you see I have been down for so long
Feel like the hope is gone
But as I lift my hands, I understand
That I should praise you through my circumstance
Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance
I just wanna praise you
I just wanna praise you
You broke the chains now I can lift my hands
And I'm gonna praise you
I'm gonna praise you
Everything that could go wrong
All went wrong at one time
So much pressure fell on me
I thought I was gon lose my mind
But I know you wanna see
If I will hold on through these trials
But I need you to lift this load
Cause I can't take it anymore
Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance
I just wanna praise you
I just wanna praise you
You broke the chains now I can lift my hands
And I'm gonna praise you
I'm gonna praise you
Been through the fire and the rain
Bound in every kind of way
But God has broken every chain
So let me go right now
Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance
I just wanna praise you
I just wanna praise you
You broke the chains now I can lift my hands
And I'm gonna praise you
I'm gonna praise you!!

Mary Mary Lyrics/Shackles (Praise You)

What sets your feet a' dancin'???  Get on over to Sting My Heart's blog and let us know!!!

I AM Bible Study - Lesson 12

My Answers to this weeks BURNING QUESTIONS... 

1. We discussed how we are God's fame and He is ours. Have you ever been in a situation where you are applauded for your ministry and had to fight back the idol of pride? Ever been tempted to believe your own press? It's okay to admit it! Your testimony will help others in their resolve!

Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy....(alrighty y'all...here it is...in all it's NOT glory).  The answer to this question is yes.  I sing.  I sing in church.  I sing in church A LOT.  Solos, duets, trios, choir, Praise Band...you get it...I SING!!  I sing because it is the way I best commune with my Jesus.  I sing because it is a ministry through which He uses me.  "I sing because there's an empty grave, I sing because there's a power that saves...I sing BECAUSE HIS GRACE IS REAL TO ME!!!"...

BUT...every once in a while...(oh mercy, do I have to say it???)...I get the "big head".  Normally when people compliment me I tell them it is ALL JESUS.  And I would MUCH rather hear someone say "You know, that song you sang really spoke to me", than "You have a beautiful voice".  But, there have definitely been times when I got "too big for my britches" and Jesus had to take me down a few notches.  Because if you know what I know, GOD HATES PRIDE!  He will not stand for it, and I am constantly asking him to GET IT OUT OF MY WAY.  And sometimes he does, right out in front of everyone to see...when I forget the lyrics to a song, or my voice won't hit the "high note" just right, or I lose my voice completely.  Sometimes he breaks me, right then and there...and all I can do is drop to my knees and worship him, and tell him IT'S ALL ABOUT YOU JESUS...AND ALL THIS IS FOR YOU...FOR YOUR GLORY AND YOUR FAME...IT'S NOT ABOUT ME...AS IF YOU SHOULD DO THINGS MY WAY...YOU ALONE ARE GOD AND I SURRENDER...TO YOUR WAYS.

2. Did it ever occur to you in the 3-way drama of God, Job, and Satan that Satan was the only one outside the loop as far as Job's reactions would be? Does this encourage you in resolving to make a fool of him when he attempts to use you to defame the Name?

It is VERY encouraging to be reminded that Satan is NOT omniscient.  That he has NO IDEA how his schemes are going to pan out, and that the simple fact that God has allowed the test in my life shows me that GOD BELIEVES IN ME!! He's rooting me on every inch of the way!! HALLELUJAH!!! (I think I just had a spell!!!)

3. Are you in a situation now where you feel you are being overcome? Better yet, are you in a situation where you should have been overcome but are not?

Oh he would like nothing more than to see me slide right back down into that yucky-blucky pit, and wallow around in the muck and the mire...and trust me, he's been trying to get me there...my paths have been laced with all KINDS of banana peels!  But you see, I'm wise to him now...he can't get me with those old tricks.   I HAVE BEEN RESCUED, and I have learned that the secret to getting through each and every day is to ABIDE in the arms of Jesus.  The enemy might slip me up, but HE'LL NEVER TRIP MY JESUS!!!

4. Have you failed in a Satan-designed trial? Can you recognize God intends for this failure to refine and resolve you for next time? God is not out for your destruction but your perfection!

Oh my goodness!! I don't think I can count that high!!  But I can look back on each and every instance and see where God took something that Satan intended for my harm, and His defamation, and used it for my good and HIS GLORY!!!  Whooooo!!! (Man, this lesson is bringing out the "Nature Boy" ---or girl?--- in me!!!) CAN I GET AN AMEN??? 

5. Can you describe yourself as a Wonders Junkie? Found yourself in spiritual highs and lows depending on whether you perceived God was doing wondrous things or not?

I really can't relate to this one because every single time God's wonders show up in my life, I drop my jaw with amazement!! It's like "WOW!!! LOOK WHAT JESUS DID!!!! And all I had to do was ASK???"  Isn't He just flat AWESOME????? Every. single. time!!

6. Have you ever been like Philip and had God right in your face and not recognized Him?

I think I do this quite often.  I don't really know how to explain it.  It's almost like having special "company"...someone you've always wanted to meet comes to stay with you, and you totally ignore them the entire time they are with you.  As I go around in the hustle and bustle, chattering away, busy as a bee... I often stop and hear that still small voice beckoning, saying,  "Be still my child... I am right here...don't miss me...don't overlook me...just BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD!"  Then I fall flat on my face, and beg His forgiveness. 

7. Journal a brief prayer asking God for His Glory. Let it be the thing we all desire above all else.....

I caught a glimpse of Your splendor
In the corner of my eye
The most beautiful thing I've ever seen
And it was like a flash of lightning
Reflected off the sky
And I know I'll never be the same

Show me Your glory
Send down Your presence
I want to see Your face
Show me Your glory
Majesty shines about You
I can't go on without You, Lord

When I climb down the mountain
And get back to my life
I won't settle for ordinary things
I'm gonna follow You forever
And for all of my days
I won't rest 'til I see You again

Show me Your glory
Show me Your glory
I can't live without You

Show Me Your Glory Lyrics/Third Day

The Stuff of Life...

Needing to share some prayer requests, praise reports, and link love today...

Prayer Requests:

1. Michelle Clonts - a 28 y.o. mother and wife with a very painful tumor on her spine. She had surgery a while back to remove it, but they could only get about 20%. Now tests are showing complications and possibly more tumor has grown back. Medications are not even touching her excruciating pain, and her parents feel helpless at this point. She has two very small children, and was hoping to be recovered from this and back teaching school in October. Please lift her and her precious family up to the throne of grace RIGHT NOW!
2. My sister Karen. She has been faced with some very tough decisions regarding her future in the past several weeks, and is struggling with how to address them. Please pray that God's will for her life will be evident, and that He will give her the courage she needs to follow through with whatever he calls her to do. She is such a precious young woman, and I know he has AWESOME plans for her life!!
3. My new commitment to TIME MANAGEMENT. School is starts a week from today, and with new MK goals, as well as a desire to manage my home well (see Proverbs 31), I have decided to GET HELP!! I am reading/have read a couple of books on this topic and I have enlisted the help of the FLY LADY to take baby steps toward this end each day. (Speaking of baby steps, I am starting Potty Training Boot Camp this week with Samuel!! Please pray for that, too!)
4. My REnewed commitment to GOOD HEALTH!! This includes SPIRITUAL, MENTAL, EMOTIONAL, and PHYSICAL. I have been on a weight loss journey for a couple of months now, and have been yo-yo-ing up and down the scale. I also need to get back into my "daily groove" of having my quiet time every.single.morning. The summer has been wonderful, but I have been "hitting and missing" in this area too often.
5. My Church. Yesterday's service was OFF THE CHAIN!! You can read more about it at my good friend Priscilla's blog. I seriously feel that we are standing at the threshold of something TRULY AWESOME and that God is going to ROCK Florence, SC like never before. And it's going to start at SFBC, in our marriages and families! We are going to fill up that new sanctuary within the first year, I just KNOW IT!! I also know that the devil is SHAKING IN HIS SHOES, and is plotting in every way he can to keep this from happening. Please pray that all of his schemes will disintegrate before ever being launched. Maybe some of his missiles will actually get re-directed back at him!!

Praise Reports:

1. Our blogging class is going so well!! (Check out Chris' blog for all the updates and info if you are interested in how we have formatted and implemented this class). We've added several new members to the blogosphere and I would like to share them with you!! Check out THIS POST for the entire list.
2. MY CHURCH!!! (See #5 above!!!)
3. I was bestowed another award by Connie at Little Red Hearts from God. Thank you, dear friend, for considering me worthy of such an honor as the Nice Matter's Blog Award.

"This award is for those bloggers who are nice people; good blog friends and those who inspire good feelings and inspiration. Also for those who are a positive influence on our blogging world. Once you've been awarded please pass it on to others who you feel are deserving of this award."

I would like to share the love with the following bloggers:

Emily @ One Diaper at a Time, Gretchen @ Quantum Leap, Diann @ Diann's Full Life, and ValleyGirl. You all bless me so!!

Link Love:

(These are some blogs/posts/websites that have touched me in indescribable ways this week. I just HAD to share!!)

1. "Carpe Digital" @ Mark Batterson's blog.
2. "Minor Prophet Major Lesson" @ TammieFay's Blog
3. Xandra's post on "Getting Rid of the Garbage"
4. Perry Noble's sermon on hell (August 5, 2007)

Well, that's about it for now...and quite enough I might add...please forgive me for giving you water from the fire hose today!!!

Blessings on you all!!!

I Am Bible Study - Lesson Eleven

(My Answers to this week's Burning Questions)

1. When is the last time you encountered a Fist Shaker? This may be a stranger to you or as close as a loved one in your own home. Does anything in our description help you to understand their animosity towards God? Are you able to have more compassion towards them?

I absolutely have encountered Fist Shakers, more times than I wish to remember!  It's particularly hard when it's a member of your family who well remembers your "past indiscretions".  When I have tried to speak of Jesus and His redeeming love, and my new life in Him, I am faced with remarks like "well I guess MY sin is much worse than YOUR sin", etc...etc...  To which I can only respond, "NOT AT ALL!! It's because of the enormity of my sin and the fact that I have been COMPLETELY FORGIVEN of it, that I speak this truth into your life!"  I want so desperately for others to find what I have found, to experience what I have experienced...and LOVE HIM WITH ABANDON because of it!!

2. Does anything about Rahab's redemption strike a nerve? This may be a question you would like to ponder privately. Sexual sin and/or victimization can be an area where Satan has an enormous stronghold because it can hold so many painful and shameful memories. If Rahab teaches us anything, please know God can redeem any life and any situation, no matter how heinous it seems, and plant you unashamedly 'in the midst of Israel'. Rahab deserved death according to Mosaic Law, however she was shown nothing but lovingkindness by the God and nation of Israel.

I can definitely relate to certain elements of Rahab's story,  more so than I am even able to share here.  Satan has definitely had a strong hold in this area, but thanks to  the book, Captivating by Staci Eldredge, and the Bible study, Breaking Free by Beth Moore, I can TRUTHFULLY say that is NO LONGER THE CASE!!  I no longer see myself as the scarred, ugly, unworthy victim of circumstance that I used to see.  I now see myself as the redeemed, beautiful, wonderful child of the King that I am!!  Like Rahab, I stand in awe that the same scarlet rope that represented my shame, has been transformed into the vehicle through which I have been fully redeemed and set free!! Amen, dear sisters!!! AMEN!!

3. Is there an area of your life in which you feel you have come full circle? Where you've come to a place where everything and nothing are the same? (I'm thinking Lord of the Rings when Frodo goes back to the Shire after his long adventure. You have no clue what I just said if you are not an LOTR nerd so just ignore this if it doesn't make sense! :)

(Note to Lisa: We are LOTR nerds at our house, too!!! I remember trying to read that trilogy in high school and being totally bored with it all. But when the movies became popular, I made it my goal to read each volume before seeing the movie.  I have never been so enthralled with a set of books in my life!!  What marvelous images of OUR KING, OUR WONDERFUL FATHER, and OUR SAVIOUR!!! Okay, moving on now...)

I would like to think that I am in one of those stages right now. Selling out to Jesus is SO AMAZING!!!  And every time you think, "it can't get any better than this"... IT DOES!!!! 

What I mean is that I've always known that God had plans for my life.  I've been quoting and believing Jeremiah 29:11 since I was a teenager.  But when you actually get to see glimpses of those plans, and when you experience the journey into new phases of that plan, well...there just aren't words for it!! And to think, we wrestled with our call for YEARS!!!  What were we thinking????

4. When you were born again, did you gain a new appreciation for your surroundings as Rahab did when she received the Promise along with the Promised Land? Has some old place, object, or relationship been redeemed by now serving a 'high and holy purpose'?

I accepted Christ when I was eight years old.  There have been years of rebellion, much like a teenager at home, but I have always known that I am HIS child, and as a result, there have been disciplinary measures taken.  I am not proud of my prodigal years, but I am so very thankful that God saw me turn around and head towards home...he got up from his watch post on the front porch, and CAME RUNNING to meet me!!  I have SUCH an appreciation for HOME and the presence of my FATHER that I cannot even begin to describe it. 

During those prodigal years, I met my husband.  Our relationship was different from the start.  But, like he often does when threatened by something, the devil tried to sabotage it.  I was in a stage of my life where my scars were still very raw, and instead of waiting on God to heal them and restore me, I very often tried to "self medicate".  One way I did this was through my relationship with Chris.  I thought I needed him to heal me, I thought that experiencing his love, would make me forget my shame, and somehow deem me worthy of love again.  I know now that this was a LIE straight from the PIT OF HELL, but at the time, I was completely hoodwinked!  After we became engaged, we desperately tried to stop the cycle of sin, but we still fell short.  While we were on our honeymoon, we were watching TV one morning, and tuned in to a certain pastor preaching about Marriage.  (Coincidence??? I THINK NOT!!) After hearing the sermon, we both knelt down beside the bed in our honeymoon suite, and laid it all down before the Lord.  We asked him to cleanse us and free us from our sins.  We dedicated our lives and our marriage to Him right then and there! And yes, I am still amazed at God's forgiveness, and his HIGH AND HOLY calling on our lives!!

5. Believers can still be Fist Shakers. Do you have circumstances in your life in which you find yourself shaking your fist at God? Something He has asked you to endure, asked you to do, seemingly taken away from you? Can you see how shaking your fist is keeping you from your Promise? (I'm not talking eternal security here - Only abundant living.)

With all I have shared up to this point, it's hard to believe that I could still have those "fist shaking tendencies"...but I do.  But you are absolutely right Lisa, those tendencies represent out right rebellion and disobedience in my life, and they DEFINITELY keep me from realizing the PROMISE OF ABUNDANT LIFE in Christ.  Thanks so much for the reminder that instead of clenching my fist, I need to have my hands open in surrender.  Only then, can He place in them exactly what I need to fulfill His purpose for my life!

WOW!!! THIS WAS A GREAT LESSON!!!

I can feel the Spirit all over me right now!!!  Isn't that just THE BEST feeling in the world??? 

Thanks Lisa!!  I am looking forward to reading everyone else's responses, too. 

Have a POWER-FILLED day, girls!!!

Thankful Thursday

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving,and his courts with praise!

Give thanks to him; bless his name!”

~ Psalm 100:4 (NIV)

I am way behind in blogging this week, but I wanted to stop in and do a really quick post for Thankful Thursday...especially since I missed last week!

So here it is...short and sweet... for me anyway!!

• I am thankful for XBOX, Wii, and Carebear and Star Wars dvds that have given us something to do indoors this week during this swealtering heat wave!!
• I am thankful for my MK task list that has kept me busy this week, and for all the great motivation and momentum that I recieved at Seminar in Dallas, TX last week! And for my director Paula, who is a constant source of inspiration and encouragment!!
• I am thankful that school will be starting in ten days, giving my "Mama, we are so bored" little children more structure and discipline in their daily schedules. (It's been a wonderful summer, but I am SO read for a ROUTINE!!) I am also thankful for the great teachers they have been placed with for the coming year. Thank you Jesus for answering my prayers!
• I am SO VERY THANKFUL that my friend Priscilla called me today and invited us to come swimming, rescuing us from the boredom and monotony of the past couple of days, and giving us friendship and fun all afternoon!! (It was so great, we're gonna do it again tomorrow!!!)

What are you thankful for today??? Join in at Sting My Heart's blog and let us know!!

May Day - Week 13

I didn't post last week because I was out of town, but I had a very active week so that aided my progress...

TWO MORE POUNDS GONE!!

Slowly but surely I am getting there.  I would love to be able to snap my fingers and be thirty pounds lighter, but hey...I didn't gain it all at once, so I won't be losing it all at once either!!!

Besides, hopefully by gradually getting down to my goal, I will have larger success at keeping the weight off and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

God is SO GOOD!!!  He knows I want to be healthy and fit, for HIS GLORY and HIS PURPOSES in my life.  I just have to continue to commit everything to Him by "seeking first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things will be added as well".  Another verse that speaks to this is one of my all-time favorites, Psalm 37:4. 

So how'd you do this week?? I'm praying for awesome results for everyone!!

I'm Over the Moon!

 Hey y'all!! Just wanted post a quick note to let you know that I am BACK and I am SO EXCITED!!! 

I had a wonderful time in Dallas at the Mary Kay Emerald Seminar.  I had to keep asking myself, "Am I at work, or at church"???  So many beautiful women from Beauty Consultants to National Sales Directors lifting up the name of Jesus and giving him ALL THE GLORY!! I'm telling you it was OFF THE CHAIN!!!

I've set some great goals for the new year, and I am so motivated and encouraged to complete them!  God is moving so mightily in my life right now (from KISA's call to full-time ministry, to this whole "MK THANG", to just general HOLY SPIRIT UNCTION in my life!!) that I feel like I am caught up in a whirlwind!! But it is OH SO COOL!!!! Y'all keep me in your prayers, won't you??? 

I hope to be posting some pictures of this awesome event soon, so be sure to check back for all the details!!

In the mean time, I pray that each of you will have an awesome week in Jesus!!