Quoting Axhead

May we wash the feet of those we know are going to betray us…

Wow! I've really been struggling with this lately, but this post puts it all into perspective.

Did that challenge you as much as it challenged me??

Oh, For the Love of Pete! (And Lots More "Check it Out" Bloggy Love)

Meet Pete.

Who is Pete, you ask? Well, Pete Wilson of course! He is pastor of Cross Point Church in Nashville, Tennessee...and HE ROCKS! ;-) Chris and I have never formally met Pete and his wife Brandi, but I can tell you there is no shortage of love for the Wilsons in the Reeder home. They have both been so encouraging to us in this amazing journey called Church Planting, and we will be forever grateful to God (and yeah, His use of the world-wide-web) for introducing us all to each other.

I was "Rocked to My Core" by this post that came in on Pete's blog yesterday. Amazing. My sweet friend, Donna emailed me the link to Angie Smith's blog about two weeks ago, and I was blown away by the unwavering faith of this family, and their sheer determination to allow even the most heart-breaking circumstance to speak Christ's love into the lives of others. Angie and her husband Todd (singer in the group Selah) were interviewed for the message yesterday at Cross Point. It's a series called "Plan B". You gotta check it out. I promise you, after watching, you will NEVER be the same!

So, this morning as I was drinking my coffee, checking my blog, emails, and Google Reader... I noticed something. I'm not the only one out here who's got love for Pete. He is featured today as a guest blogger on Anne Jackson's blog, and his post is awesome!! He's also mentioned on Brewster's blog with the caption, "How cool is this guy?". Well, Brewster...I can answer that question...WAY COOL! (By the way, Anne and Brewster are also pretty awesome...if you're not already, you should definitely be checking them out!)

Having said all of that, the thing that I love most about Pete is that he would be the first to tell you that it's NOT all about him. His heart beats for Christ, and those who are far away from him. It is Pete's passion to share the gospel in a real and relevant way, so that those who have never stepped across a line of faith, would do so...receiving the amazing and abundant life that Jesus promises. His goal is to be authentic and sincere..."without wax". It's not about Pete, it's about the gospel, and that is what Dustin (yet another awesome blogger/pastor) writes about here.

And if, for Pete's sake, (sorry, I just couldn't resist) this post isn't enough...stay tuned. Next week Pete and Dustin (along with some other "cool dudes") will be featured on KISA's blog, in his "Church Planting Advice From..." series. Check that out, too! Chris Elrod and J.R. Lee have already posted!

Sending out an SOS!!

Okay y'all... I mentioned earlier that I am singing a mini-concert for Revival Services at SFBC tonight.  Having had pneumonia a month ago, and sinus related "issues" with my throat/voice last week, to say I am struggling would be an understatement. 

I just finished singing through a tentative set list for tonight...five songs, but I am thinking I need to cut down to four.  I have had two special requests and one song that I would love to be able to do, because I've had it for months and never gotten to sing it.

There's also one that I was thinking of doing, that was given to me by a friend a while back, and I haven't sung it yet, either.  I don't care about "playing to my talents" so much as I want to sing songs that will speak to hearts, and prepare for worship and a powerful message...and hopefully spark true REVIVAL in our hearts.

So, I have said all of this to say I NEED YOUR HELP!  The list of songs is posted below.

Legacy - Nichole Nordeman (*special request)

In Christ Alone - Avalon's version (the one I've had a while...)

The Glory - Avalon

How You Live - Point of Grace (given by friend)

Alabaster Box - CeCe Winans (*special request)

Which one would you cut?  How would you order them??  Is there one that is not listed that you would like to hear?? (Preacher, if you are reading this, please chime in!!)

Leave a comment (or email, Jen :-0) and let me know!

Monday Musings - Big Week Ahead!

So here's my schedule for this week...

Monday: Revival (SFBC) - Mini Concert @ 6:45 pm (yours truly)

Tuesday:  Ballgames!  Jake - 5:30, Em - 7:30 (team pics at 6:30)

Wednesday: Revival (SFBC)

Thursday: Emilee ballgame - 6:00

Friday: Jacob ballgame - 5:30

WOW!  I am getting tired just looking at this! And remember, this only reflects the EVENING activities we have planned.  There are doctor and dental appointments to schedule, and an orthodontist appointment already on the books!  (Oh yeah, and I think hope we have haircuts on Thursday.)

Is anybody else out there living a crazy, hectic life right now??  If so, how are you coping?? 

Enquiring minds want to know!

Orphans of God

Just got in from Friend Day/Celebration Sunday at Spring Valley Baptist.

Got to hear our good friend Jay Hardwick speak to the students.

Heard some awesome testimonies in the service.

And this song...

Who here among us has not been broken
Who here among us is without guilt or pain
So oft’ abandoned by our transgressions
If such a thing as grace exists
Then grace was made for lives like this

There are no strangers
There are no outcasts
There are no orphans of God
So many fallen, but hallelujah
There are no orphans of God

Come ye unwanted and find affection
Come all ye weary, come and lay down your head
Come ye unworthy, you are my brother
If such a thing as grace exists
Then grace was made for lives like this

O blessed Father, look down upon us
We are Your children, we need Your love
We run before Your throne of mercy
And seek Your face to rise above

I am so glad, to be counted among those who have been adopted into the Kindgom of Jesus! God break our hearts for those who are far from you. "We run before your throne of mercy, and seek Your face to rise above". Break us, spend us, use us to reach those who are in need of You!

Friday Five - The Music In Me

Yeah, I know it's Saturday...but let's just pretend, okay?
I have discovered some new music (or at least "new-to-me") that I thought I would share.

1. "No Air" - Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown

2. "Madly" - Tristan Prettyman
(Found this one on Brewster's blog...got to his at Pete Wilson's...both are really cool dudes!)

3. "Oh Love" - Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood

4. "Sweet and Low" - Augustana (Thanks to Jay, for that referral.)

5. "Bleeding Love" - Leona Lewis

Trying to broaden my horizons a little...(that was for you, KayKay).
Have a great weekend, everybody!!

Here She Is!!

Meet the newest member of our family:

"Paola" 

Age:
7

Gender:
Female

Country:
Honduras

Personal and Family Information:
Paola lives with her father and her mother. Her duties at home include running errands and cleaning. There are 6 children in the family. Her father is employed as a laborer and her mother maintains the home.
As part of Compassion's ministry, Paola participates in church activities and Bible class. She is also in kindergarten where her performance is above average. Playing with dolls, jumping rope and running are her favorite activities.

I am so excited the kids are too!! We can't wait to get our packet in the mail...

Emilee said, "Yes! I finally have a little sister!" ;-)

Upping the Ante!

So, before I posted my first blog of the day, I instant messaged Chris, and asked him what he thought.  Our original plan was to wait until this evening, and purchase the nets as a family for our Family Night activity.

Things have changed.

The Movie Pastor has gotten involved and well, we've already purchased the nets.  (He will match the next ten nets purchased and commented on his and Anne Jackson's blogs, so hurry and act now to get in on this!)

 

Just a few minutes ago, this came in on my MSN Chat window...

Chris@Work says:
I was thinking about something... Over the past hour
Susanne says:
what is that?

Chris@Work says:
How about we take the 30 bucks we saved on the Time Warner Cable bill and use it to sponsor a child as a family
Susanne says:
are you kidding me?
Susanne says:
that would be awesome!
Chris@Work says:
let's do it
Susanne says:
COOL BEANS!

Chris@Work says:
we will let the kid's pick a child and then we can pray for him/her each night

Susanne says:
You got it, dude!  btw: I LOVE YOU!!!
Chris@Work says:
hehe
Chris@Work says:
love you too

In the spirit of "the challenge" I am going to extend an invitation.  Won't you join us in this?? 

Many of us are getting unexpected stimulus rebates from the good ol' IRS...what are you planning to do with yours?  Could it be used to sponsor a child??  Or, did you (like us) just cut back on some expenses to "loosen the monthly grip"??  Hey..if I'm gonna be "squeezing tight" for something, shouldn't it be something with eternal, and life-saving implications??  I mean, we've lived tight for this long...

Hope I don't sound too preachy... I'm just sayin'.

So if you haven't already purchased a net (or two, or twelve) I encourage you to do so, but I'd like to "see that net" and raise you A LIFE!  Just thirty-two dollars a month can change one...forever...

Don't you think it's worth it??

 

UPDATE:  Oh yeah, I almost forgot!! If you decide to do this, please leave me a comment!! I want to celebrate that life with you!! ;-)

Thankful Thursday - Opportunity

Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

Matthew 25:37-40

I did something last night, that I rarely do.  I watched the news.  Not just for the weather, or the latest sports score, but I actually watched.  Immediately afterwards,  I remembered why I do not watch the news.  Talk about depressing!  I know, I know...I need to be informed and aware of what is going on around me, but that is what I have all of you guys for, right? ;-)

Anyway, after watching I got grumpy.  No, not grumpy...down right funky!  There was so much to complain about! ...gas prices, local governments gone awry, embezzling town council members, interest rates, the political process...you name it, I thought it...and whined about it! 

Then I remembered something I saw on this blog yesterday. One of my favorite "blogistas" has issued a challenge, and I thought "mental note to self: I need to have a convo with Chris about this, and do something!"  After being hit with the reality, that as a middle-class American, I am one of the richest people in the world, I began to count my blessings...and I fell asleep.

I recently heard that "Give Back" is the new black.  Meaning, it's fashionable... (think American Idol, Oprah's Big Give, Extreme Home Makeover, etc...)  But here's my question.  When did it ever become less fashionable?  I mean, as a Christian, is this not part of my call?  If I am worshipping Jesus from the safety of my own little "Christian bubble", do I even get it?  Do I truly understand what HE is all about?  I think that is what He meant when He told this story...

Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."

When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.

Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.

During my morning routine of coffee, emails, and blog reading, I noticed that my dear, sweet, precious Boo Mama has also issued the same challenge.  I immediately thought in response to my previous Note To Self, "self...this is your chance to ACT NOW...no more sleeping on the job!" Seriously!  I am so tired of being complacent and satisfied.  If I am truly a FULLY DEVOTED FOLLOWER OF CHRIST it is my job, my duty, my CALLING to DO SOMETHING!!  So I did. 

I talked it over with KISA, and we have decided that our Family Night discussion for tonight will be about compassion, and caring for "the least of these".  We are going to donate three mosquito nets, because we have three kids, and we're gonna do it as a family.

...which brings me full circle.  Today is Thankful Thursday. 

• I am thankful for all of the sweet blessings my life holds. 
• I am thankful that, even with all our "issues", I live in a land of freedom, abundance, and opportunity. 
• I am thankful to Flowerdust and BooMama for being wonderful, beautiful women after God's own heart, and for issuing this challenge to me, and all their readers. 
• I am thankful that God is stirring in my heart, and causing me to move, and grow, and not be satisfied with the "status quo".
• I am thankful for the opportunities He gives me each day to shine His light, and share His love with the world. 
• I am thankful for eyes to see that this is what the KINGDOM of God is all about!! 

And I pray, oh I pray, that I will never miss another chance to do just that! 

 

If you would like to participate in Compassion International's Bite Back challenge, go here. 

And, as always, we'd love for you to join in at Sting My Heart for this and every Thankful Thursday. 

Wordless Wednesday - Guess Who?

 

Isn't he precious!?! ...those same eyes stole my heart almost 14 years ago!

 

If you would like to participate in Wordless Wednesdays, go here.

Hunger and Thirst (Revisited)

Fogged out on sinus meds this morning.  Wanted to continue the "discussion" started on yesterday's blog, but afraid I won't be coherent enough...

Decided to repost this. 

04.03.07  Hunger and Thirst...

The Bible says "blessed are they that hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled".  I have always believed that, but it's a whole other thing when you experience it in our own life.  Ever since January of this year, I have been praying for Jesus to ROCK MY WORLD, and give me more and more and more of him.  You know what??? He hasn't left me lacking!!  In fact, I am OVERFLOWING with his love, grace, and promises.

It seems that I literally can't get enough of his word.  I have been setting my clock earlier each day to read and study what the Bible has to say to me.  I have also been listening to sermons on the Internet.  I have left no shortage of links on this blog to a certain pastor that has blessed my heart and soul with his passion and tenacity for the gospel.  But I just have to tell you that God is AWESOME... and  keeps placing more and more SOLD OUT JESUS FREAKS in my life.  (I am particularly excited about that, because my heart's desire has become to be JUST LIKE THEM, and according to this book, the best way to become a better Christian is to HANG OUT --even if it is "virtually"-- with people who display those characteristics.)

I have been reading Steven Furtick's blog for several weeks now.  Yesterday I began listening to a series of messages that he recently preached at his Church.  This is the first time I have ever heard him preach, and I have to say that I felt God's anointing on him through the world-wide web!!  I listened to the entire 5 week series in one 24 hour period.  AND IT WAS AWESOME!!!  God has taught me SO MUCH!!  But of all the things that I have learned, Proverbs 29:18, is the one verse that keeps repeating over and over in my heart.

Do you have a VISION for your life??? Is God calling you to do remarkable things??  Let those things spur you on to obedience.  It is only when we have a vision of God's goodness and promises in our lives that we can strive to go forward in our discipleship with him.  When we get a glimpse of what he wants for us...what he has in store for us...we won't want to settle for ANYTHING less!!  When this finally gets through our thick skulls...at that precise moment...is when we SURRENDER with RECKLESS ABANDON to the plans HE has for our lives!!! 

I am so thankful that God has brought me to this place in my life, and lest I become too "Pollyanna-ish" let me confess that I realize that our enemy wants nothing more than to thwart those plans, and place any stumbling block he can find in my path to stop them.  But through these same messages, God also addressed that issue. 

Last night, I began to take a trip down memory lane.  (One of the devil's favorite places to take me is to the PAST... when I begin to get excited about what God wants to do in my FUTURE.)  I went to bed feeling a bit doubtful and very unworthy of being a vessel used of God.  I tried to pray, but I couldn't.  Thanks be to God that when we have no words, he hears our groans.  This morning as I began my daily chores, I pulled up the last sermon of that series, in the media player to listen to while I worked.  God gave me these words... "No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you"... and then, when I listened to Pastor Furtick quote Isaiah 54:2-4, my heart leapt and the tears streamed down my face...

I was  hungry for a word, and Jesus fed me!!!

He is so faithful!! What are you in need of today?? Just ask Him, my friend.  He'll be there...with the VERY THING you're hungry for...

What if it's Him? What if it's God Speaking?

A couple of weeks ago, on a Thankful Thursday, I posted the video and lyrics to this song. (One of my Mama's favorites.)

I have found that when I quiet myself from the "busy-ness" of life, crawl up into His lap, and lean in close to Him... His voice resounds in my heart in new and fresh ways.  Ironically, the more I force myself to take time, to make time, with Him... the less I have to.  The more hungry, and desperate for Him I become.

Thought I would share a few ways that God has spoken to me today...

Through The Divine Mentor by Wayne Cordeiro:

"Returning for a moment to the Mary/Martha story, let's just say that Martha was the original Martha Stewart.  Completely irritated and frustrated with her sister for not helping out in the kitchen (there Mary was, sitting at Jesus' feet, just listening to Him speak--as if there weren't enough things to be done!)  Martha blustered that she shouldn't have to shoulder the load alone.  But when she complained, the Teacher lovingly told her that there is one thing better, and this one thing is what's needed.

Only one thing.

Mary had found the headwaters of life, the source of heaven's artesian well.  The unambiguous Source for the Christian---that which fuels, ignites, guides, sustains and empowers absolutely everything---is time with the Master. Quiet, reverent, unhurried moments in the presence of Christ, just as Mary modeled for us..."

(Further on in the same chapter...)

"'Be still', the Lord tells us, 'and know that I am God.' 

If we are going to hear Him effectively, we cannot afford to skimp on our daily devotions.  We must, as Mary did, choose the one thing that will affect absolutely everything else.  It needs to be established and guarded with utmost sincerity; out of that sacred enclosure in our life, God will show up, and He will speak."

Through my time being mentored by Esther this morning...

Esther 4:10-14 (Amplified Bible)

Then Esther spoke to Hathach and gave him a message for Mordecai, saying,

All the king's servants and the people of the king's provinces know that any person, be it man or woman, who shall go into the inner court to the king without being called shall be put to death; there is but one law for him, except [him] to whom the king shall hold out the golden scepter, that he may live. But I have not been called to come to the king for these thirty days.

And they told Mordecai what Esther said.

Then Mordecai told them to return this answer to Esther, Do not flatter yourself that you shall escape in the king's palace any more than all the other Jews.

For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance shall arise for the Jews from elsewhere, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows but that you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this and for this very occasion?

(God has placed me in this very location, at this specific time in "His story", to do His work, and rescue His people from perishing.  He wants to use me "for such a time as this"...but am I letting Him??  Am I teachable?  moldable? pliable in His hands?? Oh, Lord let it be!)

Through this video/song, found on this blog... 

(Go here for video link, and here for lyrics.)

WOW!!  It's true...

He'll do, and He'll use whatever He wants to...

To tell us, "I love you"....

How is He speaking to you today?...are you listening?

Friday Five - Just for Fun Favorites

(Yeah...I had to keep the alliteration going...)

It's been a great week.  Didn't get to sleep in as much as I would have liked, but I have none the less had a very relaxing, very low-key Spring Break.

Here are (in random order) some of my favorite events/moments of the week.

1)  Having movie night.  Each night we watched a different movie, and I have to say I enjoyed them all.  I mentioned on twitter that I can never get enough of Transformers (which is weird coming from a girly-girl like me), but I think my favorite movie of the week was Enchanted.  Something about the way "Emmie-G" cuddled close to her Daddy while she was watching...just melted my heart.  She is definitely his little princess!

2) Declaring Thursday "Pajama Day".  We stayed in our pj's all day long!! The kids even played outside in theirs!  So much fun!! (FYI:  After bath-time, and before movie-time, we did change into a CLEAN PAIR).

3) Getting to have lunch with Daddy. On Tuesday, we totally blew our whole "South Beach" plan on Fajita Nachos from Don Jose, but it was SO worth it.  The kids always get giddy about seeing Chris during the workday.  I was very happy to oblige.

4) Treating the kids to a "shopping spree" at Target on Monday afternoon.  They each got to spend a little of their own money on a toy (in some cases, a set of toys) of their choosing.  Jake was stoked about his "Mini Ninja Turtles", Sam got a few of his VERY OWN Power Rangers, and Emilee can now curl and braid Belle's hair, instead of mine!  We try really hard not to spoil them, but I have to admit, it's awfully fun to be able to "grant some wishes" from time to time.

5) Okay, I've already mentioned the movie night thing, but last night was the first time I got to cuddle with Daddy during the movie.  I love my Man!!  I love spending time with him, just holding his hand, or having his arm around my shoulder.  Even if it is in the midst of a jacked up sound track, and imaginative little boys in the floor "being" transformers during the movie.

And KISA, just so you know..."No matter what happens, I'm really glad I got in that car with you."... ;-)

Thankful Thursday - Don't Worry...BE HAPPY!

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7)

I have learned a lot about worry lately.  Dr. David Jeremiah says, in this book,  that "Worry divides the mind and multiplies misery.  It subtracts from our happiness.  But it never adds...Worry is the most ineffective use of your time".

How then, should we be spending our time???  I think the verse above gives a clear answer.  Give it all to Jesus..."with thanksgiving"...and then His peace will be yours.  That being said, here is my thankful list for this week...

• I am so very thankful for my Jesus who bore my shame on a cruel cross, so that I can spend eternity in heaven with him,  and experience his abundant life in the here and now.
• I am thankful that God hears and answers my prayers.  That I can "approach the throne of grace with confidence" knowing that he knows my needs even before I ask him, and that he has my best interest at heart (Jeremiah 29:11).
• I am thankful for all of my precious friends.  Today,  I am particularly grateful for Jennifer, Donna, Keishiah and Priscilla.  These girls will never know the impact they have had on my life, and how very honored and blessed I feel to have their love, prayers, and encouragement.
• I am thankful that when I confess my sins, Jesus "is faithful and just to forgive them, and cleanses me from all unrighteousness".
• I am thankful that each day I am learning more and more about how to stand against the schemes of the enemy, and that when he reminds me of my past, I can remind him of his future!!!
• I am thankful for the Internet!  Yes!! Without the world wide web, I would not have a wonderful community of Christian Women Bloggers, Bloggin' Mamas, and (most recently) an awesome group of Church Planting Wives to "share life" with.  All of you gals have been such a wonderful source of encouragement and inspiration to me.  Just want you to know that I don't take that lightly...you really are a blessing!
• As always, I am thankful for my precious husband, who is "my little piece of Jesus" right here on earth!!! He is an awesome man of God, and I have total faith in his leadership.  So many women have trouble with the thought of submission, but that has never been an issue with me (thankful, again!!) because I know that he loves me as Christ loved the church!!  I covet your prayers right now, that I may be the encourager and cheer-leader he needs me to be during this challenging, thrilling, and frightening time in our lives. 
• I also thank the Lord for the awesome privilege of mothering three of the most precious little souls on the planet.  My sweet little family is something I often take for granted, and I want to take special care right now to say how very much I appreciate this gift.  Emilee, Jacob, and Samuel...I love you all so very much!!  I will always be in awe of the fact that Jesus gave you to me, and allowed ME to be your Mama!!

Man!  I could go on and on and on!!!  God is so very good to us!!!

Isn't it amazing how, when we take the time to count our blessings, that our cares and burdens seem to lighten??  This truly brightens my day, and brings a smile to my face!!

What are YOU thankful for???

Feel free to join us each and every THANKFUL THURSDAY at Sting My Heart!

Because There Was No "Boing" in the Boinga!

Since the perfectionist in me just cannot stand the fact that the video for my first entry of the day (gulp) "failed"...(man, I hate that word!), I am declaring a "do-over".

Here is a post from my old blog.  It's a neat little meme.  You know, one that makes you want to pretend you are Anna from The King and I...

Go ahead, sing with me...

Getting to know you, getting to know all about you.
Getting to like you, getting to hope you like me.
Getting to know you, putting it my way,
But nicely,
You are precisely,
My cup of tea.

So without further ado, here are "5 Things You May Not Know About Me"... in no particular order...

1)  I love to swim!!!  Ever since I was a little kid, I have been likened to a "fish".  My Daddy taught me to swim in the Olympic sized pool at Pirate Land Family Campground when I was about six years old.  After only a few lessons I was jumping off the diving board! Believe it or not, I was a lifeguard in high school and college!  Even now, I can't resist being on or in a body of water.  I guess that is one of the reasons we live on a lake!

2)  While you can't tell it from my "spoken vernacular", I was an English Major in college, and I taught High School English for five years before staying home to have babies.  (I am, currently, a much better writer than speaker. Mostly because I married my KISA, a "good ole boy" from Lancaster, SC, who has unfortunately been more influential on me than I - him when it comes to our "home language".  I am doing my best to rectify that, however...mainly because we have three little Reeders now, and I don't want them to fall into the same trap! )  

I have always loved to read.  I especially love Victorian Poetry and Shakespeare (yes Dad, SHAKESPEARE WAS A REAL MAN!!).  Dr. Jacob's was my favorite prof at FMU!!  I also love the Southern Romance Writers like William Faulkner and Kate Chopin, not to mention Mark Twain.  I still love to read, but most of my reading of late has unfortunately not been any of the classics.  Lately I have been mainly reading about how to be a better mom, wife, and Christian woman.  I also enjoy the occasional Christian Romance Novel. (Currently we are reading lots and lots of books on Church Planting, as well!)

3)  I was born in Birmingham, AL (but not with a "banjo on my knee").  My parents were both born and raised here in Florence, but after they got married my Dad worked for Union Carbide, and was transferred.  They lived there about three and a half years, but I was only there for three months when we all moved back home.  

I love to hear the story of my birth.  Apparently I was scheduled to be born at the Baptist Hospital, but when my Mama went into labor her doctor was at the Catholic Hospital (how dare he??), and my parents had no clue how to get there.  They had to call a friend who lived in the same apartment complex to drive them.  It was the middle of the night, and the story goes that as Daddy was helping Mom into the backseat of the car, their friend Dale came through the hedges pulling up his pants!!  Thankfully they made it to the hospital in time, and I wasn't born right there in the backseat!

4)   I was named after the actress Suzanne Pleschette (from The Bob Newhart Show).  My mom wanted me to be "different" so she chose to spell my name with an "s" in the middle instead of a "z".  I've been told it's the "Italian" spelling, which is cool because I love Italian food and would LOVE LOVE LOVE to someday visit Italy.  

Mama wanted to name me Amanda Susanne (which I think is so pretty) but Daddy vetoed "Amanda", and I was named Pamela Susanne Holladay, instead.  (Sounds like a true southern name doesn't it??...well, that is also just fine with me, because I love the fact that I am a southerner.  I only wish I had been born before the Civil War so I could sit on my front porch in a big hoop skirt, drinking Mint Julep Tea, and fanning off my suitors! "I can't think about that now...I'll think about it tomorrow!").

5)   This may surprise a few of you, but while I absolutely love to sing, I never dreamed of being a big-time recording artist.  Not really, anyway.  When I was younger I would stand in front of the mirror and sing into my bed post topper (make-shift microphone) to the radio, but I never saw myself doing that as a career.  I absolutely love being a stay-at-home mom, and I could never dream of being anything else.  Even when I was in college earning my degree, I always knew that teaching would be "temporary" as long as I could find a "rich, handsome, prince to sweep me off my feet" and let me stay home and raise our family.  (Well, I got the handsome prince part anyway!!)

Don't get me wrong, I love to sing...I feel so close to God and, as my friend Priscilla would say "in my element", when I am ministering in song, but I would never want to give up being a "Mommy" to do anything else.  The ultimate desire of my heart is to be the best wife and mother I can possibly be in Jesus!  I want to raise my children to come to know Him at an early age, so they may each grow to be men and women of God, and great blessings to His Kingdom. 

(Aside - I have, however, always wondered what it would be like to be part of a touring singing group.  My sisters (Karen and Betsy) and I used to sing together a lot, and I miss that. Maybe some day Chris and I can form the Reeder version of the "Von Trapp Family Singers" and tour the country singing four part harmony! --notice I said four and not five...Daddy will have to be the agent/manager!)

Well, there you have it.  Anything interesting you'd like to share??? Dish people, dish!

Almost Everything is Boinga Here

This post was inspired by the Reston Baby blog.  I think it fits right in with my week of frolic, fun, and frivolity.

My kids (especially Sam) love the Backyardigans.  It's really one of the most creative children's shows on television, and the music/choreography is off the hook!  This happens to be one of our favorite episodes/tunes.  Beware: you will be singing it ALL DAY... (we sure have been!) ;-)

5,000,000,000 bonus points to anyone who can guess (no contest if you already knew) who the guest star "Mama Martian" is...

On another note, we are still having a fabulous time hanging out around home this Spring Break.  Last night we watched The Water Horse.  A really great little movie, with a great message.  (Spend time with your kids...and KNOW who they are...)

Techno-Nana is coming to town today to bring my nephews for an all-day play date.  The kids are very excited.  Especially Jacob.  When I told him last night that Nana was bringing Patrick over for the day, his eyes lit up like a Christmas Tree.  But not quite as brightly as Sam's did...just to know that his Nana is was coming in the morning.  ;-)

They are on the way now; it'll probably take them about an hour and a half to make the trip.  For sure, everything will be "BOINGA" here in just a little while!

Disney Princess, Anyone?

Since it's spring break and the kids get to stay up a little later,  we've decided to to make every night "Movie Night".  Last night we watched Enchanted.  So for my "frivolous thought" of the day, I thought it would be fun to see which Disney "Femme Fatal" I best personify...

Expecting  to be Belle or Ariel (I love to read and sing), I was slightly shocked...

Which Disney Princess Are You?
	You are Cinderella. You are hard-working and never complain, however, your trust is sometimes misplaced and people sometimes take advantage of you. Still, you are beautiful inside and out, and one day you will realize it and find true love.
Find Your Character @ BrainFall.com

I definitely do not comply to the "never complain" part of this description, and as much as I was told "Pretty is as pretty does" as a child, I am still not so sure I have mastered that, either.  I have to say though, as much cooking and cleaning as I do, and listening to three little voices beckon,  "Mama, Mama, MAMA!!!!" all day long...I guess I should have expected it!

If only I could get the ducks, geese, frogs and lizards that are so plentiful around here to help out with the chores.  Now THAT would be something!

A Season of Frivolity

Has blogging ever felt like "work" to you??  I've been working hard all week to think of some sort of "deep" and "genuine" blog post that would share a little of my heart, and a LOT of the lessons I am learning, with all of you out there in Bloggity Ville.   Well, it just ain't happenin' folks...

For some reason, I am just not able to get there.  I do, however, have all kinds of silly little things swimming around in my head.  I am beginning to wonder if God hasn't graced me with a season of frivolity, now that the seasons of "stressed to the max" and "sick as a dog" have ended.  Trust me... I am NOT complaining!

For that reason, and the fact that it is Spring Break around these parts, I have decided to take a "Pseudo Blog Break" this week.  I say "pseudo" because I will still be posting, but my goal is to see how many silly little "memey" things I can participate in.  Maybe you'll learn a little more about me...  Maybe you'll laugh... Maybe you will take a "pseudo vacation" from Truly Captivating...

Since my ultimate goal in life is to make sure everyone is happy, and loves me to pieces, I want to share some deeper, more thoughtful blogs/posts you can check out. You know, in case...just in CASE...you get bored with mine. ;-)

(All of these have really spoken to my heart, and challenged me over the last few days.  Maybe they will touch yours as well...)

• Jay Hardwick - My Feeding Plan
• Craig Groeschel - Most Dangerous Prayer
• Susan @ Forever His - Soapbox Sunday
• Lori @ I Will Take it Lord... - Here's to the Week Ahead
• Vince Antonucci @ Forefront Blog - Livin on a Prayer - Part 6

There you go.  One for every day of the work week. 

So here's to my season of frolic, fun and frivolity. (I just love it when a plan , I mean, some alliteration comes together...) ;-)

Have a good one, y'all!

Encore!!!

...This time with "JESUS" included!!! (not that they ever could have really omitted Him in the first one...but in last night's performance, they actually SAID HIS NAME!!)

Get A Load of This!

I got in late (10:40) from Praise Band practice last night, and I missed "Idol Gives Back"...the.whole.entire.thing! Man I was BUMMED! But I caught wind of this at 2nd Cup of Coffee before heading for bed, and I absolutely COULD NOT WAIT for the video to be posted so I could watch and share. Be prepared for goosebumps....

I still cannot get over it!! I thought that "Jesus Night" last week was way cool, with Dolly and The Clark Brothers, but this TOOK THE CAKE! My name ain't Hannah Montana, but being a big fan of "Idol" and loving Jesus with all I am...well, this is "The Best of Both Worlds"!!!

Like Linda, I am not sure what the producers are up to, or even about the beliefs of the individual contestants, but even if they are "playing the God card"... I LOVE IT!!!

I think He was just showing off for us, and I for one am not going to resist asking for an encore!! (Learned that from my Sweet Miss Beth).

YOU GO, JESUS!! YOU'RE DA BOMB!!!

Thankful Thursday - Spring has Sprung!

Flowers appear on the earth;
       the season of singing has come,
  the cooing of doves
  is heard in our land.

Song of Solomon 2:12

I love that, "the season of singing has come"....can't you just hear the birds singing their praise to Jesus, and the flowers offering their beauty for His splendor?  Awesome!

Gosh this week has flown by!  I can't believe it's already Thursday and time to share a little gratitude.  My heart is full of many things this morning, but I will try to be brief...

• I am thankful for the warmer weather, and all the beautiful trees and flowers abloom.  Hopefully I will get to go to the flower show at the Farmers Market this weekend, and get some hanging baskets for my porch.  If the weather is nice, maybe I can get my hands dirty and pot some petunias, too!  Yes, even though the pollen is killer on my sinuses, I love spring!
• I am thankful that my Princess and Jedi are having a ball (no pun intended) playing baseball and softball this year.  They are both starting out with a bang!  Em went 2 for 3 the other night, with 1 RBI; Jake went 3 for 3, with 2 RBIs and 1 run scored!  Go Braves!  Go Astros!  Go Reeders!!!
• I am thankful that I am able to see/met so many old and new friends at the ball field(s).  I was fortunate enough to visit with a couple the other night, from a previous church, that will never know how much they blessed and mentored me 8 years ago.  Chris and I really looked up to them (still do).  So Dwight and Debra, if you happen to stumble upon this...please know how much you are loved and appreciated!
• I am thankful that my dentist was able to work me in today to get my tooth looked at.  It's been pestering me for a while (a wisdom tooth...yes, I still have mine, although I am none the wiser!) and recently it's been keeping me awake at night.  Hopefully after a cleaning and some xrays we will be able to determine a course of action.  This will probably mean that an extraction is in my future, but OH MY...I just don't want to go there this morning. I'll keep you posted... 
• I am thankful for finding such a sweet encourager in Jennifer Antonucci.  Her blog has been a huge blessing to me.  She even took time out of her busy schedule to respond to an email from a "newbie" church planter's wife like me! Thanks, Jen for all your sweet words of encouragment, and your prayers.
• And finally, I am over the moon thankful for SPRING BREAK next week!!  Not sure if that will mean a "blog break" for me or not, but if I don't get to participate in TT, please know that I will be with you in spirit.  Thankful Thursday is always one of the highlights of my week.  I would be remiss here, if I didn't take time out to say a big THANK YOU to Iris for hosting us!! She is such a blessing!

So much for brevity... (but then again, those of you who really know me knew that was a long shot, right??) ;-)

What are you thankful for today?  Please join along at Sting My Heart, feel free to share yours.

Wordless Wednesday - Reminiscing

"The Princess" - 2 years old

To participate in Wordless Wednesday, check out 5 Minutes For Mom.

It's Official! I'm a Twit!

Don't ask me why, but I have felt compelled to succumb to the mystery that is Twitter.

Twitter is a unique approach to communication and networking based on the simple concept of status. What are you doing? What are your friends doing—right now? With Twitter, you may answer this question over SMS, IM, or the Web and the responses are shared between contacts.

I actually signed up a couple of months ago, but never did anything with it because I wasn't sure what it was. (I know...I don't always sound like the brightest crayon in the box, do I?)  In my defense, I just did it because the Stupid Programmer (aka: My KISA) told me to!  And you know, I'm a stickler for that whole "wives be submissive" thing... (at least I didn't break it when I joined, like he did!)

But, after watching this video, I kinda caught the fever, and I've been noticing that a lot of my Facebook buddies do it, too...so yeah, I've jumped on the bandwagon. 

I have to admit, it scares me a little, but since Chris Elrod said that "Twitter is the new “cool kids table”... I just couldn't resist.  I mean, who doesn't want to be cool, right??? (And we all know that Pastor E. is one of the COOLEST cats on the planet!! -- Love ya, dude!)

I'm working on getting it synched with my Facebook account and posted on my blog sidebar, but until then... if you are at all interested in the idiotic, mundane details of this little twit's life, you can follow me here.

Getting Deep First Thing in the Morning!

The kids actually ate breakfast at the kitchen table this morning, rather than at their TV trays with PBS Kids showing in the background.  I had it quiet in the house because Chris was finishing up his Bible reading/ prayer time in the family room. 

After eating, dressing and brushing teeth...we still had about 15 minutes to spare before they left for school.  (It's amazing how much more smoothly the routine flows when they aren't distracted).  I told them that if Daddy was done after we fixed/brushed hair, they could watch a few minutes of "Arthur".

That's when Emilee chimed in. 

"Mom, you know, Mr. Glen got deep in TeamKid last night."

"Really?", I said, "what do you mean by that, Baby?"

She went on to explain that they are studying different aspects of the The Armor of God in  Ephesians 6.  Last night they talked about the Helmet of Salvation, and how it is used to protect our minds against the fiery darts of the enemy.  Apparently "Mr. Glen" told them that they need to be careful what television programs they choose to watch, and what web sites they choose to visit on the computer.

"Mama"...she said, "You have to be careful, because the devil can use those things to speak lies into your head". 

WOW! If only we adults could grasp that as well as an eight year old!

So thanks Mr. Glen, for "getting deep" and allowing us to have a wonderful discussion this morning about the shows we watch and the web sites we visit. (We never even turned on the TV!) ;-) I hope you get to read this, and know what a powerful impact you are having in the lives of your students and their families!

No Doubt!

God has given me much occasion lately to "Be still and KNOW that He IS GOD".  And yet, even in the stillness, I doubt.  Not Him...no, no...I have NO DOUBT my God is powerful, wonderful, tender, loving, and MIGHTY to save.  He is my deliverer, my defender, my rescuer, and my very present help in time of need.  So why am I doubting?  Who am I doubting?

One night, while the disciples were out in a boat on a storm tossed sea, they saw something truly amazing.  Jesus had told them to go on ahead of him, and He had stayed behind to pray.  During the fourth watch of the night, they were startled by what they supposed to be a ghost, walking on the water...coming toward them!  Of course, like all us good disciples do when we see evidence of the power of God, they FREAKED OUT!  Jesus said, "Don't be afraid, guys...it's just me."

Then Peter did something that required immense faith.  He said, "Okay Lord, if it's really you...tell me to come out there and join you, and I will."  Can't you just see Jesus right now??  So thrilled at the thought of working His power through one of his own.  Just as he had done the very first time he'd ever called Peter, he said, "Come".

Peter jumped out of the boat, and he, too walked on water!  What a thrill that must have been! Can you even imagine?? I can just hear him now, looking back at his friends in the boat saying, "Hey, y'all!  Watch this!!"  But then, something happened.  I don't know, maybe a large, swirling wave unsteadied his feet.  Maybe a shark or a whale swam by.  Whatever it was, it caused Peter to take his eyes off Jesus, and examine the gravity of the situation.  Before he knew it, Peter began to sink. 

He cried out, "Lord, save me!! Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, 'O you of little faith, why did you doubt?' "  I love that.  Jesus IMMEDIATELY reached out his hand, and caught Peter.  He rescued him, and took him to safety.  But not without admonishment.  Who was Peter doubting?? Certainly not Jesus.  After all, he had had enough faith to say, "Hey Jesus, if that's you...I'm coming, too!" The one Peter doubted was himself.

Oh, man!  How that truth speaks to me!  I know that my God is able to do "immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine", I just have a little trouble with the latter part of that verse which says "according to his power that is at work within us" (Ephesians 3:20). 

Why would He, the God of all the universe, want to work in ME?  What have I to offer him but filthy rags, a jagged past, and a wretched soul?  My eyes veer off the path way too quickly, for I am easily distracted.   When the crashing waves of life, or the sharks of my past threaten...my first instinct is to bail.  I want out.  I lose sight of my faith in the call.  Sounds like Peter and I have a lot in common doesn't it?

When I doubt myself, and my ability to be used, I consider this passage:

Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."

1 Corinthians 1: 26-31

I am so glad that Jesus uses fools like me! No more doubting!!  I am going to BOAST in MY GOD and His DIVINE GREATNESS!!  I will remember that day that I was called, and I will surrender to the molding and shaping of His will. 

Here I am, God!  Use me! Shake me! Wake me! Spend me!  Work your MIGHTY POWER in my life...for YOUR honor, and YOUR glory.  I am ready to walk on water with You!

Thankful Thursday - God Speaking

I am so THANKFUL that GOD SPEAKS TO ME!!! I only need to be receptive, attentive, and LISTEN for HIS VOICE!!! 

Song lyrics | God Speaking lyrics

Precious Father, Thank You...for doing and using whatever You want to... to get a hold of me...and let me know that YOU ARE ENOUGH...and You love me!! In spite of all my flaws, in spite of all my short-comings...YOU LOVE ME!! And there is NOTHING I could ever do to change that!! Lord open my eyes to see your wonders, open my ears to hear your voice!  Make me hungry for a word from you, every single day!! I love you, JESUS!!

Please join us at Sting My Heart, on this and every Thankful Thursday!

Enough's Enough!

As my "Pa" (maternal grandfather) used to say...

"Enough's enough, and too much ain't good for nobody!"

That's how I am feeling this morning. 

Emilee went back to school yesterday, and I began to try to get back to a "normal" routine around the homestead. Just when I thought I could see the light at the end of the tunnel, Jake woke up at 5:00 this morning tossing his cookies! Apparently we've not seen the end of that little stomach bug.

You know, I've been under many a spiritual attack in my life, but my struggles are more usually of an emotional nature.  This may be the first time ever that I am aware of the enemy is using a physical arsenal. 

I feel a bit like General Lee at Appomattox.  Trying to maintain my dignity, and be true to the "fight" within me, yet all the while realizing my own limits.

So yeah, I'm waving the white flag.  Not as a surrender to the enemy...oh, no.  This is more of an S.O.S to my Savior, my Rescuer, and my Redeemer...

I call to You, God, and you save me.  Even if I cry out in distress evening, morning and noon, You will never fail to hear my voice. (Psalm 55:16-17)

Lord God, You are the Great I Am.  (Exodus 3:14) This is Your name forever! (Exodus 3:15) My enemy cannot begin to stand against you.

Who among the gods is like You, O Lord? Who is like You - majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?  Stretch out Your right hand and deal with my enemy, O God! (Exodus 15:11-12)

Power is made perfect in weakness.  Therefore I will boast all he more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Your power may rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Sunday night, the praise band finished their set with this song (listen