In Heaven We Shall Meet

After a three day struggle, at 10:23pm, August 5th, Aunt Lottie finally went to be with her Savior, at her age of 97. Mom, Papa and my Christian sister Michelle sat with Aunt Lottie. Papa, struggled with his health had been staying home but Mom insisted on picking him up and having him come usher Aunt Lottie off to Heaven.

Michelle had an "urging" to get Mom out of the room for a few minutes. While they were gone, Papa got on his knees down by Aunt Lottie's head and started singing to her. She opened her right eye and looked at him. He finished his song, then got up and went to sit on a chair. When he turned around to look at her, she was already gone. She must have been waiting for time alone with him, her nephew, whom she adored.

I met her last summer and fell in love instantly. All who knew her will miss her dearly.

Aunt Lottie was a sweet little old lady, but don't let her frail frame of a woman fool you. Her boisterous voice, heavily accented with her Hamtramck and polish upbringing would put you right in your place in an instant should you get out of line.

Her, "OYE…YOY…OYE" will live on in those she knew forever and those she recently met. It's her trademark and one we all can appreciate. Her hand made doilies she crocheted kept her hands busy for years, but her love of Jesus kept her heart and her mind focused.

Reading her Bible was her favorite thing to do. She loved to pray…with you or for you, she didn't care; she knew there was no problem greater than her Master, Jesus could handle. And she would be the first to tell you so. Loving and bragging on Jesus is what she loved to do.

As the end drew near for her, she asked everyone, do you know Jesus? She wanted to make sure they were going to the same place she was going…Heaven. It was her life's work. Her mission. Her calling. Please be certain of your salvation so you can meet up with Aunt Lottie again.

Until We Get To Heaven, Uncle David...

My Uncle David went to be with Jesus a couple of days ago. It was a very peaceful passing from this life to Heaven's gates. After suffering from Alzheimers for several years, it was time for him to be released. A kinder man I have not known. No foul thing or sarcastic speech came out of his mouth. He was a man with integrity and grace. He was the true, "Real men love Jesus" poster.

Uncle David was like Jesus with skin on…his touch was gentle, his speech soft and always an advocate for right and good and his laugh genuine. Knowing his hands and his arms were always available for hugs and comfort was a very important comfort to me growing up. So many years have passed and memories faded, but this I will never forget. I didn't feel much love growing up after Dad died. There were few folks I actually knew loved me and Uncle David was one even when I was in rebellion I would see his face, see his grin, hear is laugh and know I was loved.
The earth lost a great man of God, but Heaven has received a jewel. Finally, he gets his prize of the race he ran faithfully…slow and steady. Good job, Uncle David…tell Dad we'll see him soon.

So much to talk about...

Where do I begin? Let's start with thanking God for his mercy and grace and all of His wonderful goodness. I've been very busy with my Doreen's Doggie Delights dog cookie business. Included in that, I've been doing a lot of rescue with a fantastic group of folks. We've saved a lot of dogs from death and that is a wonderful feeling. I'm partnered with a rescue in GA...www.pitprintrescue.com. They do some fantastic work with pit bulls.

Let's see...I guess, I'll start with the most recent...Last night we were having a fire outside with the neighbor and I decided to go get some sausages to cook. When I brought them to the table, it was too much stimuli overload for Wrigley. He attacked Lucy. We didn't think it was bad, cuz we didn't see blood, but it was dark outside. When we came inside, I noticed her wounds and then when I got up this morning, I shaved the areas because I didn't want them to get infected. He really did get her pretty good. It looks like the flesh is torn, more than punctured. Actually, I guess that is better than the puncture, so it will heal better but it looks worse. Wrigley really needs to be an only child, but he needs to learn to get along completely. We will go back to seperating them for a while and put him on restriction. It really grieves my heart that this happened.

Okay, the other thing that happened is, Gary's neice called to say Pat was going on hospice. That is a very sad thing to us. She's in Tennesee and with gas prices it's just too far to go...so now we just pray and wait for the call.

I updated my website...www.doreensdoggiedelights.com. It is much faster and I have some of the rescue work I do posted under Rescue Stories where there are lots of pictures. Come and visit!

Doreen's Doggie Delights goes to Frankenmuth?

Maybe...I got a call from someone yesterday offering me a booth for Memorial Day weekend. The cost is 400 bucks though of which I do not have. However, I would get my "business" out to 40,000 people! So, it's a great opportunity for me. Must pray and pray for financing. God is really good! :)

Lucy's Leg

Two weeks ago, I was in the backyard playing with Lucy. The snow was melting and it was wet and heavy. Lucy loves the snow and needed to run off some energy and she wanted some one on one time with Mom. I grabbed the flirt pole and we began a slow game. I always play slow with her because of her size and age. (She'll be 7 next month!) Anyway, as she ran to grab it, she jumped into a deep section of the snow and stopped dead in her tracks. With the look of panic on her face, and the sound of a POP, I knew I broke my dog. Terrified, I ran to help her. I quickly flexed her knee and felt it POP back into place. Hoping for the strength of angels, I picked up my eighty pound girl and headed for the door. She struggled for me to put her down. I didn't get two steps. I had about forty to go. I tried for the angel strength again and picked her up again, knowing I had to get her in the house. Again, she was having none of the carrying. I put her down. She was too heavy for me. I didn't know how I was going to get her in the house. Gary was inside, obviously with the doors closed. Finally, I pulled my scarf from around my neck and put it under Lucy's belly and used it as a sling to get her at least to the gate.I opened and propped the door and yelled for Gary to kennel Wrigley. I was exhausted by this time. I told him I broke Lucy and needed his help. Wrigley came flying out the door to see what was going on. Gary helped me get Lucy in the house and on the couch. She did not have a broken leg. We decided to let time heal her. I couldn't take it any longer and took her to the vet. Sure enough...blown acl. Surgery is not an option.Dr. put her on Rimadyl. 75mg twice a day. 40 bucks for 2 weeks. Anyone know of generic and/or where to get it cheaper? Also...she's on bedrest till further notice.

Can you help Dolly and Luna

As you already know, I'm very active in a rescue group on MySpace. Currently, I'm working with an awesome lady named Lillian. She has recently rescued two dogs, one named Dolly and one named Luna. Here are their stories:

Luna is Star's sister. In one of the pictures you can see them both laying on the bed together. Luna got adopted out along with her other sister Lilly to a couple who did not take care of them. Lilly is still in their custody. Luna's life had to be bought back in order to save it. The man (and I use the term loosely) is a drug addict and now has 21 other dogs in his care or lack of and is getting ready to abandon them. My friend Lillian is trying to prepare people to get ready for them. They will need a lot of care, as you can see by Luna's condition. Apparently, she is the worst of the bunch.

She weighs about 25 pounds compared to her sister who weighs about 65. She is hungry for attention but afraid of being touched at the same time. She won't eat unless the others eat first and she has chronic diarrhea, so much so that it's hard to get her house trained. She is in major need of medical help but there are no funds for her or for the others that will be coming.

Lillian is doing a great job working with rescue organizations and different places trying to get funding for medical care and food for these two but money is tight and hard to come by. Won't you please help us help these babies? They deserve a chance at love. They didn't ask to be starved, neglected or abused and Lillian is available to nurture and care for them. All she needs is some funding to get them healthy. We are now...begging for your help. Please click on the donate button below and help us.



Luna...doesn't feel very good.

Luna on left and Star on right...same age should be same size

Luna...skin and bones.

Dolly with her foot as a flipper.

Dolly is the most critical case. She needs surgery. You can see how horribly her leg is broken by looking at the picture but what you can’t see is that her hip was also broken at the same time. At age 12 weeks she was struck by a car. Nobody cared enough to help her recover or get her fixed. The owners let her suffer with a broken hip and leg until they didn't want her anymore and gave her away. She is now about 9 months old. The new temporary owners kept her outside in a pen that they never cleaned, so she lived in filth. When the rescue person came to get her she walked in inches of dung just to get to her. The make shift shelter had fallen on top of Dolly and clipped her scalp as you can see in the picture. Again, no medical care was given. She was covered in fleas and her water bowl was frozen solid. The way she is forced to walk, is affecting her shoulder her hip. Her hip needs repair and her leg may need to be amputated. Along with regular dog maintenance, spay, shots, food and love, this girl just needs lots of TLC. The owners of Dolly came to the temporary home looking for Dolly to put her down. When they found out she was gone, they returned with the sheriff and a court order. Dolly is a happy girl who has been abused and neglected from a very young age. Please help us help her. Donations big and small are accepted. Thank you and God Bless! If you want to make a larger donation (and please do...you can email or message me)

Here's how you can help...we put an eBay donation link up for Dolly but the donations will go to both dogs: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&Item=330209222512

Catch up

Well...I haven't written in a long time, partly because I don't know who even reads what I write. Nobody ever comments but I guess some folks do read it so I'll write an update and let ya know what's going on.

Yesterday was an awesome surprise from my Bible study group of women. One of the ladies caused a "distraction" and called me out of the room. When they called me back in they handed me an envelope full of money. They took up a collection for my cookies. They said to get at least 2 of my cookies lab tested and into the pet stores. Now, that can happen. Two down, four to go. I will send these off after the snow storm is over and get that started. Then I have to get my license from the state of Michigan. :)

I am also doing research to see what it takes to get them into pet stores in other states. If you have any leads or suggestions, please contact me. Remember, my cookies are wheat, corn, salt, sugar and preservative free. Check out my website at: www.doreensdoggiedelights.com

Bye Aunt Gaye

Aunt Gaye died this week at 74, complications from pneumonia. Unexpected, I always thought I had time to call and tell her I loved her. She knew it though, but I didn’t tell her enough. I thought it all the time, but the words never came out of my mouth for her ears to hear. God knew. She had to know, but she didn’t hear.

Today is her memorial service. I won’t be there, but she knows I want to be there, right? Life happens and I just can’t make it.

So, I’ll have my own farewell send off in my heart and on my blog for the world to see. I’ll remember the good times we had.

I’ll start with the birthday parties at her house because my day was the 4th of July, she always had it at her house around her build in swimming pool. I always got to invite my girlfriends and favorite cousin Janice. We had red, white and blue cake and swam till it was time for the fireworks.

If you wanted her to share gum with you, she would be glad to do it, but you only got half a stick! Between her minty fresh breath and her Taboo perfume I always knew Aunt Gaye was somewhere around. Even to this day, the combination reminds me distinctly of her.

At Christmastime, she was bigger than Santa in us kids’ eyes. Around the corner she’d come with the greatest gift of all. A pantyhose stocking stretched to its limit filled with nuts, and apples, oranges and gifts of all kinds…dolls, books and candy. We were kept busy for hours.

One Christmas she made a surprise visit. Guess what she had? No, it wasn’t a pantyhose stocking but it was a stocking stuffed full of things just for me, making a memory!

I loved going to her house at Christmastime. Her house was always heavily decorated. Must be part of where I get it…between her and Aunt Joyce and my mom, I come by it honestly.

Well, Aunt Gaye…say hi to Uncle Joe, and Aunt Jackie and Grandma and Grandpa and most of all tell my dad hi and I miss him the most.

I love Thor!

Sadly, I write about my buddy Thor. I've never met him...yet our hearts have connected. I loved him since the first picture I saw of him waiting for someone to rescue him. He was hairless due to demonex mange and was sentenced to die. The treatment the shelter was giving him wasn't working and they had given up but Sam came along with something special for this guy.

Hope. And it went a long way. She brought him home and completely changed his treatment to one that actually began to work at least for a while. For a few months, he got good exersise, loving and playtime. He had fun and playmates. He even got out of his crate and got to sleep in the bed! :) Then he got a skin infection along with possible food allergies. Now, the mange has returned and the poor boy is suffering. It is time to let him go and end his pain.

My heart goes out to Sam and the work she's done with him. He is scheduled to cross over the Rainbow Bridge sometime on Friday. Please pray for Sam and Thor and our group as we will mourn this loss of life in a great way.

Life Update

It's been a while since my last blog...what's up? Well...I'm trying to get a new doggie cookie business off the ground. Check it out: www.doreensdoggiedelights.com

But...I suppose the most import praise right now is that my Papa Wally made it through a quadruple by-pass surgery on Thursday, November 2, 2007 with flying colors. I didn't expect anything less! He's alert and active and feeling great. He's recovering as I type, faster than the nurses expected for a 78 year old man.

Mom has a lot of work ahead of her, with changing thier diets and getting some exersise incorporated in their lives, but God will work it out and show them what to do.

Papa came into the hospital for a stent and is leaving with practically a new heart!

God is very good indeed!

ABC Home Makeover

Date: Sep 20, 2007 5:02 PMPet Rescue by Judy is where I got Moose. If you haven't met Moose and haven't seen that he's the best dog ever, you're missing out! If it wasn't for Pet Rescue by Judy...he would have been put down at the shelter they got him from. They are up for the possibility of having Extreme Home Makeover build them a new shelter. All of you know how crazy I am about animal rescue so I think this is just fabulous. I agree a that she's a little nutty, but she finds a lot of homes for animals and I sure can't fault anyone for that! I think you have to be crazy to be as wonderful as these people are.Please sign the petition of you have time! THANKS!!-----------------------------------------ABC's Extreme Home Makeover

Petition to help Pet Rescue by JudyGuess what! Extreme Home Makeover is considering building us a shelter!This is what happened: Rose, the owner of the Red Lion Pub, contacted them a couple of months ago and told them about how Judy lost her kennel due to zoning issues. They were intrigued because they had never done anything like a kennel before, so they asked for a video. That was a trick, getting a video of Judy and her home without her knowing it but fortunately our treasurer, Abel, is pretty darn clever and pulled it off. Weeks went by with nary a word, then a phone call: can you get together a petition to show local support for Pet Rescue By Judy? Can we ever!!! And that's where we are now. We welcome out-of-state signatures as well as a demonstration of the national interest in animal rescue! If you would like to sign the petition, please go to http://www.petitiononline.com/sep2007/petition.html and let your friends know too. And keep your fingers crossed! Of course, we still need the 3 to 5 acres on which to build the shelter, but we are hoping that someone will step forward and help us in that area too. I don't suppose any of you know a banker or investment councilor with a client who needs a tax break..... The down side to all of this is that we had to let the cat out of the bag and tell Judy about the possibility of Extreme Home Makeover helping. She was stunned and thrilled. And afraid to hope. But hope is what has kept her going all these years! Let's all hope together!

Please sign the online petition:http://www.petitiononline.com/sep2007/petition.html

Thank you

LasVegasWrinkleRescue Rescued Houston Dogs

I'm sure you all heard about the dog bust in Houston where there were about 100 dogs found but only about 30 were able to be rescued? Well...Jennifer is a member in my group and they called her to see if she could handle them. She is normally a 2-4 dog rescue, but she couldn't say no. One more time, as a group, we rallied to send her what we could. Old towels, blankets, sheets, money...one girl had a PetSmart gift card she was waiting to use and just sent it to her! Jennifer needed more. Granted, we all wanted to rush down there and put hands to the efforts, but that was not practical on many levels, but our hearts and prayers are with her. She knows we are thinking of her and that we would be there if it were possible. So, with our tears, we listen, with our hearts we pray and with our arms, we wrap them around our pups and promise them they will NEVER have to worry about being mistreated ever again.

Donations can be made directly on her website.

Here's Jennifer's words as she described the situation and her heartfelt thanks in a thread in our group:

Towels will sooooo come in handy!!! Animal Planet is "supposed" to do a "Where are they now" story sometime in the future. Our local station called today and interviewed both myself and my partner. EEEEEEEEEEE I don't like public speaking! I felt like a second grader during a spelling bee! Oh and ended up choking up and tearing up when speaking of a little girl I named Prissy Priscilla. With all she's been through, she still such the little lover! heres a couple pics of me and her.

To all of you, your support means more to me then you'll EVER know!On Monday Sept. 19th the Houston Bulldogs FINALLY arrived in Las Vegas. The magnitude of this situation finally came into focus.They all are massively underweight, with slight fevers, some have eye irritations, and many with strange unexplainable skin lesions. These babes arrived looking somewhat defeated, broken down shells of the dogs they use to be. Despite the trama they have been through, they still remained happy, smiling bullies!They are all still horrendously underweight, with severe upper respiratory infections.

The staff at Durango Animal Hospital came in early or on their days off, to insure that the absolute best care was available for ALL dogs. On arrival, their weights were charted, temps taken, and body condition evaluated, they were feed and given a chance to rest.We previously only had numbers to associate these dogs with, but upon their arrival we were able to give ever number a name.

After giving them a chance to settle in, they were individually taken out, walked and given the attention they soooooo desperately craved. We spent more then twelve hours making sure they were bathed, comforted and loved on.Their road to recovery and rehabilitation will be a looooooooong complicated process, but we will be there with them during their entire journey.
To our family(who won't be seeing a lot of us for a while) our friends and everyone else that enables us to do this, our deepest heartfelt THANKS!!!!! We are emotionally, physically, and mentally drained, but relieved they are here. So their journey begins! PLEASE keep them in your thoughts and prayers!these pics were taken yesterday during their evaluation

thanks all of you!!!! its just sooooooooooo flipppin hard to wrap my head around this! I mean seriously, the bitch LIVED on the property! How do you stuff your face with food paid for off their backs and watch them STARVE?!?!?!?! For the moment she's in jail awaiting her criminal trial. I'd LOVE to fly down there and testify against this bitch! I'll send pics as I get them. Honestly, there are some that are way to F'd to post anywhere! My daily ritual has become, get up have some coffee, feed my dogs, take the kids to school, come home and network, answer emails and phone calls, and go visit the dogs in ISO. Then its time to pick up the kids, strip in the garage, and wash my clothes so I don't transmit anything, shower, cook dinner, answers emails, network return calls, and colapse into a pile of blah, with my dogs! Some of these dogs still have an if'y prognosis and I can't bare to loss another one! PLEASE all you bully lovers, hugs your pups, keep them close and pray for these guys to get through this.

What's On My Mind?

Finally the HSPCA to the rescue!

Rescued pup scared going to Jennifer in Las Vegas

Rescued scared dog going to Jennifer in Las Vegas

Rescued scared dog going to Jennifer in Las Vegas

Well...lots! There is a soldier I read about who has fallen in love with the cutest little black and white pup over in Iraq and is trying to find a way for him to get back to the USA. It was a story of true love. As a dog lover, I can't imagine falling in love with Lucy or Wrigley and then having to leave them in another country to fend for themselves. So...that weighs heavy on my heart and in my prayers.

Another thing on my mind of course is the misuse and abuse of my favorite breed...the pit bulls. Jennifer, a gal in my group who runs a very small rescue (2-4) dogs is getting 30 on Saturday from Houston. Out of 100 dogs, only 30 lived. These poor babies are so neglected they are skin and bones and starving for not only food, but love and attention. How can people be so cruel? I wish I could go and help her with them, but she is in Las Vegas, and being out of work, doesn't really leave much resources for me to work with. So...I'll send what I can...I have some blankets and towels and old sheets. I'm sure they will help. One good thing is, Animal Planet is sending a reporter to cover the story. One of the girls from the group, sent an email to them to ask for a donation to help. For those that want to make a monetary donation, they have a paypal account set up, the email addy for that is lvwrinklerescue@hotmail.com.

We have been watching Mamma and her babies on line thanks to Patrick. He set up a webcam at his home and is letting the world (and our group) be included in the rescue of this sweet girl and her babies. She gives him lots of kisses and lets him sit with her while she nurses the babies. It's really something to watch!

I've started helping teach the kids at church. We have a computer game/program which will allow us to email messages to the kids so they will have them whenever they log on to play the game. I don't have all of the specifics as I've just started, but it seems pretty cool. I'm excited to be with the kids and give back to the Lord.

I put in several applications at Mercy hospital yesterday and spoke with the HR assistant and another person in the department. I felt encouraged when I left. I know it may take some time as most places do but I believe that will be my next employer. :) Of course, I also got a call from 911 to go to the next step and take a test on Saturday, so I'll follow up on that. I could easily do that job too...well...not easily as I know there is much training involved, but that does sound like a very interesting job as well.

And then there is my job/house situation that still weighs on my mind but I can only do one day at a time and there is only so much I can do. So, I do what I can and let God do the rest.

Life is Da Pits

Yeah, I know, but it's a good thing! That's the name of the MySpace group that I belong to and in it is the best group of people I've never met in person. LOL In fact, we've laughed together, and most definitely cried together. Sharing stories of our own pit bulls or bull dogs in the news or if we've made a news story like Patrick. Our hearts break when we try and rescue and time runs out and the party is on when the last minute redemption happens as in Mama's case and her 8 puppies. She had been in the shelter, and her 1 week old puppies had been dropped off all around the city and were brought in 2 and 3 at a time until there were 10! Two died...we cried. But Sam begged for more time for Mama because the shelter didn't have room for her and because she was a pit they wanted to euthanize her. Sam came to the board almost daily in tears begging for someone to do something...she already had 41 or something like that of her own rescues and fosters, she could do no more. Finally...the last day...God showed up...and so did Patrick. LOL So, three of the group members took them to his house, bathed them and got everyone set up. Another case I can and must share, although, I will do it through tears is Coco. Originally, she was in the shelter and was about 3 months old. She was in NY (I think) and Sarg wanted her in Chicago, but the shelter didn't want her going out of state. So, they found another home. A few months later, she ended back into the shelter after being bashed in the nose with an ax, losing her eye! Yes, that got all of us riled up. We had banned together in the first place trying to find her a good home when Sarg came forward and wanted her...and to be turned down! Now this? We were horrified to say the least. Eventually, Sarg worked hard on getting Coco placed with his cousin. Another happy ending. Then there's Missy...coco's twin. When Skye found her in the shelter, her heart melted because of Coco and our history with her, plus, she too was blinded in the same eye! Someone shot her with a bee bee gun! We rallied again to get her a forever home and it was decided that Kelly from Georgia was going to come to NY and get her for her parents. The shelter freaked out and refused to let Missy go, out of state. The found a home for her. Within 2 weeks, she was brought back and was scheduled to be put to sleep because they said she, "bit a little boy." Skye went ballistic and so did the group. We made phone calls and demanded to see police reports and dr reports for proof that it was a bite. Skye did her own temperament testing on Missy and in NO way was she aggressive, however, the people that adopted her didn't know how to handle a dog of this nature, much less know how to handle her around little kids. Dogs jump until trained and Missy jumped up on the little boy scratching him. NOT biting! So, someone in our group came forward and adopted her once they rescinded the euthanasia order. Thank God! At the same time we were dealing with Missy, we were also praying for and working on Miller. He was with Missy at the same shelter. He was a white pit bull, and white ones for some reason are usually deaf which was true in Millers case. The shelter didn't like Miller. He gave them the creeps for some reason because he "looked at them weird." Did they ever stop to think he was looking at them weird because HE COULDN'T HEAR??? Stupid people! Anyway, he did get a forever home and we hadn't heard from him and hopefully that is a good thing. Then we have Sissy and Mr. T. LOL yeah, they were a couple of sweethearts. Some girl came on the board asking if anyone wanted them because she had to get rid of them. Fine...we worked on a way to get them from her to Lillian. (Illinois to MO) Come to find out, this 20 something girl is living with this 50 something mean man who was abusing the dogs. They had to stay in one crate together most of the day. He smacked the cage and yelled at them a lot. In fact, while Lillian was on the phone getting directions, she could here him doing this in the background! These dogs were only about 6-9 months old...brother and sister. They were scrauny and very stunted for their age and not yet house trained. They needed away from the mean people that's for sure. By the time they got to Lillian, she was ready for them with open arms. Her and her dog, Star Baby and the cats taught Sissy and Mr. T how to love and receive love. They were no longer hand shy or starving. They learned how to play and be content. Then there's Thor...I have to tell you about Thor. He's about 4 months and was scheduled to be euthenized because he was covered with mange. He was so bad, there was NO hair left on him. His eyes got me...so sad, but Good ole Sam, she said, "I'll take him." And she did just that. She has nursed him back to health...he still has a ways to go, but his hair is growing in nicely, he isn't coughing and he doesn't have to die! I could tell stories after stories, but now I'm in tears. There is so much need out there. So many to rescue. So much abuse to these guys because of their breed. What is wrong with people?? As I type this, Wrigley is sitting on my lap, under a blanket because he's cold. Real vicious!


Missy after

Missy before

Coco with her new mommy! Coco now...

Coco before

Mamma Sissy after

Sissy before

Mr T after

Mr. T before Miller
Thor before

Thor in process...

We make a difference...one at a time! So, when I email you about "another pit bull story" now you will have a face to he story and see the good that comes of it. :)

Jobless...but not hopeless

Yep...my job at the courthouse has ended. I'm kinda glad though, because I would have stayed as long as they paid me no matter how boring the job was. For those of you that know me, I need to be busy, my mind needs to be busy...and this job wasn't it. No biggy. God has one for me and I'm hoping in him that together, we'll find it next week, or at least walk in the right direction.

I want a job that I enjoy...a job that is rewarding, pays decent and is in the helping field. I have a big heart, so in the mean time, I'm going to see about doing some volunteer work as well. Maybe that will put my foot in the door at the hospitals. :)

Pray for us, please and thanks.

Labor Day Weekend

What a weekend! (Tired but happy) Mom and Papa came over Thursday afternoon, I took off work a couple of hours on Friday. Although, Papa wasn't feeling well, he was a trooper to hang in there. Friday, Mom and I just bummed around Wal-Mart and picked up a few things for breakfast and dinner...sausage gravy was on the menu for Saturday, and Gary was going to make a beer can chicken on Monday, plus we needed fudgecycles!

So, we tried to not throw everything else in the cart, we gathered our stuff and went home, where we found Papa working on the Kluski's. (Polish potato dumpling) We were having my favorite supper...Kluski's, polish sausage and sauerkraut. Okay, so yeah, I'm blowing my WW plan for the week I know, but life will go on. I refuse to beat myself up over food anymore.

Anyway...we messed around the house and the plan was to go to Klackle Orchards in the morning. Breakfast was a nice change...something Gary and I hadn't had in a long time, sausage gravy, biscuits and eggs. Yikes! I know...and no, we didn't just eat the whole weekend, but we had to prepare a lot of food because Papa's diabetic and needed to eat so, I guess, we just ate with him. Yep, I'm stuffed full and will probably not eat all week! LOL

Anyway, after breakfast, we already had Wrigley medicated, we left for about 4 hours. I get twitchy if we are gone much more than that, knowing he's in his kennel. We went and got tomatoes and corn on the cob...yep...supper. On the way home, we stopped for a cup of coffee and took it to Long Lake park. It was a very quiet little park with a lake, however, no motor boats allowed. Papa fell in love with the lake and wanted to come back for a picnic then next day.

We decided to give Lucy a chance and see how we had done with our training. So, Sunday, Mom and I got a picnic lunch put together and I took both Lucy and Wrigley on a walk, thinking if I took them for some exercise, they would be tired on the way...wrong. Lucy cried a bit, but not as much as I expected. I don't think she even knows what she is crying about. Wrigley acts like a pro at riding, sitting up front with both feet in the middle of the console leaning the way he should as the car turns. Funny to watch from behind. Both were very excited to be able to go.

Once at the park, Mom and I walked my two and her Zipper, chihuaha. My two did really well at the park until some stupid girl decided to run way to close with her black lab in town. What are people thinking? It's a good thing my kids are NOT dog aggressive or we would have had problems. She had NO business coming so close to us knowing we had 3 dogs. It could have been a potentially dangerous situation. People don't think. She should have stayed at least minimal twenty feet away, if not fifty! It was a big park. And the dog was bigger than she was, there was NO way she could have pulled him off if there were problems and who do you think they would have blamed? My Wrigley because he's a pit bull. Anyway, Thank God, he's friendly and a good boy and nothing happened, but it just goes to show you, it just takes a second.

Papa and Gary and Mom all took their shot at fishing and all got skunked. We stayed about 2 hours and then came home, but it was really nice to be able to take the dogs and be out and not worry about Wrigley left at home.

Monday, Gary made the beer can chicken, Mom and I made spaghetti squash and fresh tomatoes and corn on the cob, along with Mom's apple pie. Oh yeah...Mom made a homemade apple pie. They left after dishes were done. LOL I'll post some pictures later, when I pull them off of my camera, but it was a really good, fun weekend. Of course, Mom helped me around here as she always does.

God works in mysterious ways!

Funny how God works...The other day, I was on my way to work and as I was praying, I asked Him about my writing. Since I had basically stopped, I was wondering if He wanted me to -continue or if it was okay for me to not be writing or what. Writing has been a real release for me in the past, but it has also been quite stressful...well...the book part of writing. So, I didn't get any big flash of lightning or booming voice, but through out the day, I had three different...very different instances come to me to encourage me in my writing. So, I guess, that is my answer

I don't have a lot of books left, not sure if that is a good thing or what, don't have ANY money to re-invest. Since I got laid off and have not had a "dependable" schedule and have let myself get stressed out over my work situation, I've neglected my writing altogether. So, now I'm working my way back to being productive in writing. I didn't realize how rusty I'd become. :)

God Loves Honey too!

After making some collections at work last week (from just a couple of folks) and knowing what a tall order the Lord had put on my plate for donations for Honey, I wondered how he would fulfill it. I knew I wasn't going to go door to door and that I hadn't heard from anyone from my email who wanted to donate yet, so I was wondering where the money was going to come from...but God had a plan. I talked with Val and she "came across" a lady that wanted to bless her with a 200% discount off of the heartworm meds! So...instead of 13.50 per pill, it is now 13.50 per 6 months worth of pills, which by the way is about how much I've collected for each dog, so all of her dogs have about 6 months worth of heartworm meds, which was my initial goal. I'd love to push it and get them a years supply, but this is a great start! Nothing is impossible with God!

Have a Heart for HUNEY

Huney has been passed around from abusive home to kill shelter to abusive home to foster home to kill shelter to rescue... The last person that adopted her from one of the shelters, had her taken from him, when a neighbor heard a terrifying scream in the middle of the night. He looked over his fence to see the man and a friend holding Honey down and cutting off her ears.

Huney is now safe with a loving young girl who has a passion for rescuing pit bulls. Having 4 others in the home, I’m sure she would be grateful for any help. She has not asked for anything, but I feel compelled to try raise donations to assist her with heartworm meds. Just her basic food must be costing her a fortune. That is why it was laid on my heart to “Have a Heart for Huney”. J Helping others do what we can’t.

Heartworm Medication is $80.00 for 6 months and vets want dogs on it year round now a days.

You can help by buying some of the medicine. She has 4 other dogs also on heartworm meds, so you can see the magnitude of the expense. Yes, it seems like a big chunk, but remember every little bit will help.

Each pill is about 13.50 Could you buy one?

You could send donations to my email by paypal using your credit card or bank card: doreentheauthor@gmail.com or if you can just give me a check or cash and I will transfer the money to her vet’s office for the meds.

Major Update

Well, I say major, nothing in the move area and nothing yet in the job area LOL, but seems like a lot has been happening. One thing new is I'm the proud new owner of a Pet Food company. Check it out..it's not just pet food, it's more than that but since I joined because of the pet food, that's what I'm calling it. www.TopNotchPetFood.com That's my name for it. Anyway, part of every sale goes to a dog rescue. That right there sold me! And, the food is human grade, which means that instead of the pet food company collecting all the food that is discarded because it's not good enough for humans to consume and making our pets eat that, my company collects only the ingredients that humans CAN consume and creates quality pet food out of that. So, I know that I'm feeding my pets a good quality food. The other thing is it's no older than 6 weeks old. Can't say that about any other brand. Who knows how long it's been sitting on the shelf?

Also, my very good friend is back in my life! Milton Niles, Author of: "The Remaking of Earth" is back in my life. He got very sick and his computer got sick and he dropped out of sight, but he is back, encouraging me to write again. I'm very thankful for his friendship!

We are taking Lucy down off her bromide a little bit, her levels are a bit high, which may be why she is stumbling around. Wrigley is doing well, still as silly as ever. We have a great dog sitter, named Zach. The kids love him!

I have several resumes out, please keep praying for a "good" job for me. I have one up for 911 dispatch in Muskegon. Interview on Aug. 30. Also, putting one in Mona Shores today for HelpDesk. :) Either one would be good. Still trying to break into the hospitals...

I'll try and keep up on my blog. Thanks for reading!

Pit Bull Revelation

Actually, this could go on to both categories, Pets and Religion. Reason being is...I was on my way to work yesterday, and as I was praying, I feel like I got real revelation from God on my stand and assignment from Him.

Here's the deal, I have really been struggling with the issue of ministry. I have also been struggling with my purpose and what He wants me to do with the passion I have for dogs, especially the Pit Bull. Confusing myself with issues of, “Well, God is about people not animals…and what is the difference going to make in the long run? Animals don’t get saved, they are already innocent beings. I should spend my time and energy in a more productive way, the way of bringing others to salvation.” But then I have a hard time, not being around people per say, but I’m not around a whole lot of people, and I let my faith speak for itself, and minister when I can, but my heart cry is not there for salvation, and then the guilt comes in and then I feel like a bad Christian.

So…as I was praying and really seeking the Lord on this yesterday, I finally got some of the pieces of the puzzle to fit into place. You see, I belong to a great group on MySpace for Pit Bulls and reading and studying about the bans that the politicians want to put into place and the BSL that is going on all across the nation breaks my heart. Not only for the dog but the owner as well. It’s not fair or right too put racism on our animals! We don’t do it to people, why would we do it to animals? And, with the pit bull, it’s looking more and more like genocide! It’s crazy!
Seeing the cry of the people for help made my heart hurt. Knowing that I can’t really do anything but right a letter, I did the only thing I knew would make a difference. I went to my Father. Praying will be the ultimate weapon in this warfare and it looks like we need a lot more prayer warriors to pray for this fight. How does this help God? Well, this is the best part! God gave us the animals in the first place and told us to take care of them! He gave them to us so that “your joy may be full.”

So…with that being said, my mission is to pray in the spiritual battle that is going on in this country against BSL. Yes, it is a huge undertaking and we need many, many more. You see, there is a lot of folks trying to do stuff, but they are doing it in their own strength, NOT God’s. So, as a prayer warrior, we need to pray for wisdom and God’s guidance for the folks that are fighting the politicians that God would help them make good decisions for HIS kids and animals.
I have a new excitement in my step. I don’t feel guilty for not being some “holy person.” Dogs matter to me. So do their owners. So do the issues surrounding it and if some get saved out of the deal…Good for God!

Please pray with me if you think about us.
Thanks and God Bless!

It Finally Happened!

My folks came over for the weekend. It's been quite a while since they've seen Gary. I knew it would be a long day for them and us, so I put a meal in the crockpot first thing this morning. Hungrily and hurridly, we sat at the table, my two dogs plus moms little one all scurrying around it trying to find the best place to beg. Finally, everyone sits, prayers said, we dig in. Chatting away mom finds her eyes bigger than her stomach and she is getting full.

"I can't eat the rest of this." She said.

"You don't have to finish it. Just eat your veggies!" I said. When I realized what I had just said, I started to laugh, we all did. Mom grinned. "Do you know how long I've waited to tell you that? Eat your veggies!"

You never know when opportunity arrises. :-)

Something to think about…

As I approach the date of my dad’s death anniversary I am once again reminded of a very weird thing. I am older than my father. Huh? You might ask, but yes, it is true. For those of you that don’t know, my father was murdered in cold blood when I was only ten. He was only thirty three. I am, ah-hem…older than that, and have been for some time. When I turned thirty four, I was really weirded out. It is hard to imagine being older than a parent.
I remember being thirty three and how grown up I thought I was. Dad had three kids! I didn’t have any. At Thirty three, I didn’t even have a house yet, I was still a happy renter, but he and Mom had a house, cars, solid work, kids and lots of family. As I reflect, it looked like the "perfect" life. Of course, I know it wasn’t, but as a daughter and his little girl, it was!
Now, as an adult, I know the problems for a thirty three year old…house, cars, solid work, kids, (even if mine have fur) and all of the stress that puts on me at my age, much less at Dad’s age. It’s just a weird thing, knowing that I am older than him. I’ve matured, grown up without him. I used to think about it when I was little, after he died that I’d live a day past my thirty third birthday day. Maybe I didn’t want to, or maybe I just couldn’t imagine it, but whatever it was, I’m way past that, and it’s weird. I’m glad I’m here. I’ll be here till God is ready to take me home, where I’ll see God and my dad again. That will be a really cool day, but for now, I suppose, I’ll just have a weird time being older than my dad.

Happy Daze

God really does work in mysterious ways...

Last Friday I was so sick, yet I still went on an interview through Man Power. Later that evening, my best friend Jeanne, came over and had received from a friend from work a bag full of clothes. She hadn't looked at them yet and sent Chelsea her niece out to retrieve them. When we opened the bag, it was full of dress clothes, our size. (Exactly what I would need if I got the job I interviewed for.)

Over the weekend, as I took my antibiotics and began to feel better and think clear, I decided to pursue the Health Unit Secretary idea and see just what it would take to get certified. There were semester classes and hundreds of dollars that could be spent getting the certification, both of which I didn't have...time or money. However, after looking over the curriculum, I noticed, I could already perform half of the duties and with a bit of training, I could learn the rest. I decided to search Amazon to find a book on the subject and sure enough there were plenty out there, a little out dated, but recommended by the board. So, I ordered one and am now waiting for it to arrive.

I feel like I now have a path forward and a plan for what God wants me to do. I know, I keep saying I think God wants me to do this or that, but now, I really think this is the right path. So, while I study, I will work the temp job. (They called me today and offered me the position.) It's long term, forty hours a week and right on time.

So, yes, God is right on time.

Feeling Better...thanks!

Geeze...I was about to wonder when I was going to get well again. I started coming down with some kind of sinus crud the Saturday before Easter. And since I never, ever get sick, it really took it's toll on me. Thank God for Gary, who took very good care of me. Finally, Friday, I went to the doctor, insurance or not, I had to get some antibiotics to kick this thing. Today, after my two naps and a shower, I feel (and smell) much better. Now...to get on with the bigger things...like job hunting. Please keep praying for us.

Thanks! :-)

Seizures Again

Last night was kind of sleepless for most of us around here. I decided to try and sleep in my chair, sitting up. Gary went to the spare bed, thinking I would sleep in our bed with Lucy, leaving Wrigley the couch. Well...with me in my chair, Lucy came out of the bedroom around two, to see where she was supposed to go, since I wasn't in bed. I didn't want her in my lap so I acted like I didn't hear her. With the hardwood floors, I couldn't help but hear her pacing, which woke Wrigley from the couch. They both went into the spare room to check on Gary and I think got into bed with him for a while. I tried to ignore them all hoping for a little bit of sleep.

About an hour and a half later, the train started again, Lucy tried to get into my lap, then Wrigley, Gary checked my forehead before retiring back to his sleeping quarters. Finally, six forty five, Lucy came and rested her head by my face on my pillow and whined. I knew why. It was medicine time. I told her, "Go tell your daddy." She ran into where Gary was sleeping and whined. He knew the drill too. Thankful he was letting me sleep; he got up, let them out and passed out meds and breakfast.

Lucy was relentless. She wouldn't take "no" for an answer, so, I let her up on my lap, where she flipped her back on my pillow and we cuddled and went back to sleep. Eventually, she slid off of the footrest, disgustingly, but went to the couch. As she began to fall back to sleep, she went into a seizure. Gary got to her first, then me, then Wrigley jumped up behind me, whining and resting his chin overlooking my shoulder.

We reassured Lucy that we were with her and she was okay, petted her until the seizure passed and then she recognized us. Gary left us and went for her medicine, while I sat stroking her side. It didn't take but a moment, and she was ready to take off on her ritual. We give her bites of a creamcycle to boost her sugar level and she is very thirsty, then she paces the house. She wasn't interested in eating food this time, but she did eat a couple of cookies, so that helped too. within an hour and a half she is taking a nap. One very tired girl. The rest of us will be on edge for a while, hoping a praying there is not another one.

Song Anyone?

Gary received a harmonica in the mail one day last week. Little did we know the joy it would bring. Lucy doesn't care about the noise it makes and she looks at her brother funny when he makes such a fuss. Wagging his tail, ears perked and eyes wide with anticipation, Wrigley waits for his queue from his dad. Carefully, he watches as his dad reaches for it and puts it to his lips. With the first blow, Wrigley bounces on his feet happily ready to play. He loves the sounds his dad makes out of the little box. The bluesy, higher pitch makes him throw his head back in a full howl. Other sounds make him give a growlish song to the tune Gary plays. It's quite comical, which goes along with both of their personalities.

My comedy team, the comic relief of the house.

Total Determination

Yesterday morning, while still recovering from whatever cold/sinus gunk I caught from my Papa Wally, I was sitting in my chair watching TV. Not an unusual occurrence since the loss of my job several months ago. Generally, the routine goes as follows, Wrigley stands guard at the bedroom window for about thirty minutes, while Lucy takes her morning nap on the couch. However, this day, Lucy decided she wanted her mama. I lifted the covers up so she could get in. Climbing into my lap, she nuzzled up close and got comfortable and quickly fell asleep. When Wrigley was done with his patrol, he came to the end of my recliner and stood up and looked at me with his face all wrinkled up as if to say, "Where am I supposed to lay?" Knowing I couldn't just toss the sleeping Lucy off of my lap to satisfy him, I tried to shew him away, but he kept going in circles, the couch, dad, and the bed and back to me. Finally, he decided not to take "no" for an answer, he carefully climbed up on the side of my chair, and laid himself on the top of my chest, with his butt on the arm of the chair to take some of the weight. His head he rested across the top of the back of Lucy's neck. It was so sweet. He was cold and a bit shivery. All he wanted to do was cuddle and get his morning nap. Lucy, didn't seem to mind. She wasn't moving.

So there they were, both my kids...seventy five pounds of lab fur Lucy and sixty three pounds of muscle of Wrigley. I always wanted kids, so now I have them in more ways than the original one.

Be My Valentine

What a wonderful day we had! Gary surprised me with a mushy card first thing with my morning coffee. We were to get out of the house and go to some antique stores towards Grand Haven and putts around. However, we started our journey too early so we kept driving and went into Holland, ending up at Steak and Shake for a morning burger! An excursion we would not normally take. On the way back we stopped at the now opened store. We took a trip back in time and shopped but didn't buy anything, then headed back home where we exchanged our boxes of chocolates.

The real fun came when we started dinner. We had planned on eating in regardless...German dinner is what we planned along with all of the fixings: Polish sausage, sour kraut, spatzle, red cabbage and potato pancakes. As I attempted to set the mood with red, I discovered that I didn't have anything, not one red napkin, dish, nothing! So, we improvised. I tore off several pieces of butcher paper and grabbed the colored markers and we sat down at the table and created each other's place mat and the one for the center of the table. It was fun.

Finishing the cooking, glass of wine along with Dean Martin playing in the background was a great way to set the mood for the rest of the night. Great food, great music, great company.

After twenty years of marriage, it's wonderful to be able to still be wined and dined at home and still have it be romantic. :-)

Good Bye Hal

Ludington Daily News Posted: 2-7-2007Harold E. Reuter • Mr. Harold E. Reuter, 75, of Walhalla, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 6 at his home. Wyman Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. Stephens Funeral Home in Scottville is in charge of arrangements. Post a Tribute Date published: 2-7-2007 � 2002 Ludington Daily News.

Strange feeling getting the news of my former step-fathers death. My pre-teen and teenage years were quite rocky following the death of my father and I often wished as well as spoke the words to the step-father, "Drop dead!" Now, he did, after fighting a losing battle with Alzheimer’s. After years of not seeing him or hardly thinking about him, the time has now come to stop in my tracks and look square in the face of the past at what I've long tried to bury. Feelings.

What were my feelings? MY feelings? They have been so polluted by how others felt about Hal or how they thought I should have felt about him that I always went to the place I knew only so well...denial. Quiet, dark and almost peaceful. Denial allowed sleep and permitted me to stay out of arguments. Not that I wasn't used to arguing, but as I grew up and left home, I was trying to get more in control of my life and fighting was not part of it anymore. Still, I didn't know how to stand up for myself, so I put this part of my life on a shelf in order to deal with it later.

One time, Hal sent me a plane ticket home for Christmas. Of course, Mom and he were getting their divorce and I was feeling very torn. I wondered, "Why after all the fighting that we did, was he being nice?" He bought me some beautiful ruby earrings for Christmas. I didn't know how to receive them or the niceness this man was showing me. The following year, he came to Texas to see me. It was so odd. "What does he want from me?" We had ice cream, went out to eat and had a very pleasant time.

But then the divorce got bad between Mom and him and of course, I chose to take sides. There was no pursuing relationship with this man. I ran as fast as I could into my safe place called denial and didn't deal with it again.

Many years later, after I got saved, the Lord instructed me on forgiveness. There were many people I had to forgive for some terrible things done to me. He had me forgive Hal for all of the fighting we did and laid it on my heart to write him a letter. I put it off and put it off, scared of reconciling a relationship of which I was not in control. In my heart, I extended forgiveness, but Hal didn't know it. I don't know what he ever thought about me after that last visit in Texas.

When we moved back to Muskegon, I often thought of driving the 60 miles to his house, but never did it; once again, fear of man ruled my heart. I know that I've changed in the years since I've seen him, surely he'd changed too.

Maybe, just maybe he wanted to be friends. Now, I'll never know.

Heart for the homeless

After helping out at the Supper House the other night, I can't get the people that came out of my mind or heart. I see their faces, young and old, black and white. Their dirty hands reaching out for more to drink, purposefully, our fingers touch as they hand me their cup. Silently, I pray for God to meet their need.

"Thank you." They respond as they suck down the contents. I pass behind them and pat their back.

"You are very welcome." It's the least I can do, I think to myself. Fill up...it's going to be a long, cold night.

I can't get the images out of my head. My heart breaks. Tears, stream down my face. Maybe it's because I understand the devastation of drug addiction. Maybe it's because I understand what it's like to be homeless. Granted, I put myself in the situation and I've gotten myself out or rather, allowed the help of God and others. But looking into the eyes of these folks, some were tricksters and were taking life as it came. A free meal was a free meal and they were glad for the system in place. But there were others who had tired, weary eyes. Those are the ones that grabbed my heart. Are they crazy? I don't know, maybe. Does that mean they don't deserve a place? No. With all of the billions spent on other nations, we shouldn't have homeless, hungry, cold especially elderly homeless folks, in the good ole US of A. But, I guess that is for a different entry.

I know it's touchy subject. I also know the truth is still out there, that we have hungry, cold, homeless people right in our neighborhood. What can we do about it? Short of going and adopting a homeless guy, I'm not sure, but I do know that God is stirring my heart for a reason. Please help me pray through this. Pray for the homeless guys and gals that are freezing out there especially this weekend.

Supper House

For years I've complained about wanting to do something for someone, help someone, "get out of myself" so to speak. Last night was my opportunity. Our church helps at the Supper House every once in a while and I signed up. Unsure of what to expect, I knew it was something I was supposed to do. As I watched the church folks get things in order I was a little nervous, not knowing what to expect. They explained what my part was and we had time to get to know each other while we waited; we were finally prepared to meet the people.

Homeless and hungry began to come through the doors. Layered in coats and sweaters and steatshirts, they piled into the gynmasyum, turned dining room. Sitting at an empty spot at a table and we served them. Someone brought their plate of food and dessert, while others brought them their drinks of choice. I was on the drink detail. "Juice, milk, water or coffee?" Sometimes the answer was all of them, sometimes they wanted just a hot cup of coffee to warm their bones from the freezing cold temps outside. Many came in from being homeless, all came in seemingly...happy. They were gracious, thankful and polite. Some bowed their heads and prayed over their food before they ate.

I watched as they ate, drank and sometimes had conversation with their tablemates. Then, the saddest part of the night came when a gentleman asked, "Can we have second's?"

Of course, being new, I didn't know the rules, so I went to check.

"They can have extra bread and butter, that's it."

Sadly, I walked back with a piddly piece of bread and butter, knowing the man also wanted a piece of meat with his bread and said, "No seconds, only bread. I'm sorry."

He knew the drill and knew the answer before I got back to him but also knew it wouldn't hurt to ask, but my heart broke. I know my husband would have to have seconds. I understand they need to have enough to feed everyone and everyone needs to be equal, but if they are going to be fed, then can't we get them full?

As I reflect on the time I spent with them last evening, I hope I am forever changed. I pull out my housecoat and am warm. I toast my bread and think of their cold bread with their meal. I have a snack before bed, where will they sleep on these bitter cold nights of winter? How sad for them, how grateful I need to stay.

I am now trying to think of how we could send them with some food as they leave. A packed mini snack for later, cheese and crackers, chips, apple, juice box? I don't know how it would work but, I'm thinking God has a plan...

If you agree please pray with me about this. We need to put feet to Jesus' heart.

Is there any healing for Lucy?

Lucy had another seizure last night. Gary and I were sitting in our chairs just talking about our future and the way my chair is placed in the living room, I can see straight into the bedroom. I noticed Lucy stretching, which she often does, but she wasn't stopping the stretch. I tossed my water bottle in Gary's lap as I threw my blanket off my lap and said, "Lucy's having a seizure!"

By the time I got into the bedroom to her, she was completely into the spasm. Her body contorted and twisted. Wrigley jumped up on the bed to see what the commotion was all about. Ears perked, he began to shake, shiver and whine as if to ask, "What's wrong with my sissy?"

Not wanting to completely wreck him, we shielded Lucy from him incase he decided to play, all the while I was rubbing Lucy's head letting her know she was okay and we were there. I know she goes blind while in a seizure, but I don't know if she goes deaf or not. Either way, I rubbed her and talked to her. This one was one of the longer ones that she's had, although she didn't cry. I'm grateful for that! It lasted about a minute, maybe a bit longer; Gary got her a cool washcloth. Once she came out of it, I wiped her face and tried to hold her still until she regained her vision. Gary brought her an extra dose of medicine and cheese which she gladly took. She couldn't see it but she smelled it, and then wanted to get off of the bed to follow him for more. A few more seconds and her sight came back.

She went for the water and the pacing began. I was out of creamsicles but had some frozen cool whip and gave her a couple of bites to help her increase her sugar. A few minutes later, Gary took her and Wrigley outside and the fresh cold air seemed to perk her up quickly. In she came looking for something to eat. So, we fed her another full meal, of course we had to feed Wrigley some more too. She paced for a little while but soon settled on my lap. I massaged her muscles which were very tense. I just wish there was healing for her instead of just trying to maintain her illness. It's heartbreaking to watch her go through this. Please pray for her.

Happy Anniversary Wrigley!

Yesterday was two years since we rescued Wrigley from the bitter cold, January day. His front feet frost bitten by old man winter and his ribs were sunken in from near starvation. Had we not stopped he would not have lasted much longer. Although he was skittish and scared, the spunk never left this little guy. We had our hands full trying to incorporate him into our predictable lives. Lucy (our lab) wasn't too sure about having a brother, but she adjusted and eventually enjoyed having a playmate. (That is until he tore up all of her fluffy toys!)

Trial and error lead us with instruction with our bully boy along with our vet. Wrigley was quite spirited and had a lot of energy, something we were not used to, but walks and eventually pheromones and medication helped to manage him. Not knowing how he was raised from a pup, with only his behavior to guide us, left us to believe that he was pretty abused and was actually abandoned to the woods that wintry day or days before we found him.

Now, he enjoys the benefits of being wanted and understood. Yes, a pit bull is a much misunderstood breed. High spirited and full of energy, but given the right parents, love and attention, they are very loving and devoted. Wrigley is a bit manipulative too, I must say. With his almond shaped eyes, he can give a look that will melt any heart. He loves to be held and cuddled, but only on his terms, kind of like a cat. He also enjoys going for walks. His best treats are Milk Bones, the large ones along with spray cheese. That is what we put on his medicine in order for him to take it and he drools before it ever gets on the pill. Just seeing the can gets the drool machine running. The funny thing about him when he takes his treats is it's like he's taking them for the first time ever. He is so very gentle. Sometimes when we get something new, unlike Lucy, who gulps hers down in two bites and is back for more, he looks it over, sniffs it, licks it, then takes a little bite to check it out before enjoying the whole treat. He does this all the while Lucy is standing over his shoulder, coaching him on as if to say, "Come on, eat it, it's good!" or "Eat or I will!"

He's taken Lucy's post as guard dog; actually, he's taken the dominant role between the two of them on most things. Since Lucy was submissive to Blackie, she is used to being in that role and well, there was no making Wrigley submissive. LOL! I'm thankful he is not food or animal aggressive, but he doesn't like hats.

He suffers from major separation anxiety along with Closter phobia, according to our vet. Even so, we have to keep him in a cage when we go away to keep the house and Lucy safe because he tends to be a bit hyper at times and we are concerned that if we are not home to control him, who knows what will happen. We hate putting him in there but there is nowhere else for him to go. Pray for him as you read this part as I need him to settle down in there. The funny thing about his cage is when we sit down at the kitchen table to eat supper, he wants to go inside his cage. He actually barks or whines at us to open the door so he can go in and lay down. Somehow he feels safe in there. I know, it’s twisted, but when we leave, he goes crazy while were gone and hurts himself. Just please pray for him. I’m really hoping and praying for the day that he can come out and I’m hoping it’s soon.

The last two years have not been easy, they've been quite costly, financially as well as emotionally, but having Wrigley as part of this family has been very rewarding and I can't imagine him not being one of us.

Good Bye Aunt Vi

Until we meet again…

I’ll meet you on the other side, Aunt Vi, beyond the pearly gates. Down the streets of gold beside the river of life, you know the One that fills your cup. To the place of no more pain and suffering where we’ll know everlasting joy. That’s where we’ll meet on the other side.

Let me tell you a little bit about my Aunt Vi. She went home to be with Jesus the other day. She slipped away quietly while everyone was sleeping. Suffering with a repair that refused to heal in her stomach, she decided against anymore procedures. Determined to see a healing or her healer she used the key she knew that would reach both…prayer. Praying every waking moment in her heavenly language, she was unwavering.

Her main concern for staying around this earthly realm was to make certain her grandchildren find Jesus, oh how she loves them. When I had a brief visit with her in ICU a couple of weeks ago, I anointed her with oil, which she was very glad for and we prayed. Her whole prayer focus was that she get well, so she continue to minister to her grandchildren. They must be very blessed having her as a grandma. Lord, Jesus, please hear this Gramma’s prayer.

Aunt Vi was the kind of lady I wish I were, gracious and kind and selfless. She always talked about Jesus and how good He is or how prayer can and will help any situation. Her faith was solid. Even when she learned of her illness, she was not concerned and didn’t want to talk about it, not because she was in denial, but because she knew Jesus had it under His control, so she didn’t have to worry about it. Now, THAT is faith!

Meeting her for the first time at my nephew’s graduation, I was disappointed that we had not met sooner. I fell in love with her instantly. We bonded at once and spent much of that day sharing our faith and love of God. From that day forward, we kept in touch always praying for each other. What a hole in my heart she has left. There is no one quite like her.

I will miss you in my earthly life, Aunt Vi, you were a great role model for me. I wish we could have spent more of our lives together. But for now, I will take what I’ve learned and share it with others. I will try and be more like Jesus, because that is how you were…Jesus with skin on.

I love you very much! Until we meet again, someday soon.

Doreen

A Trip back to Family Values

A Trip back to Family Values

Recently, I took a mini vacation. I went to see my father’s sister, whom I haven’t spent any quality time in person with in about ten or twelve years. It’s been over thirty since I’ve been in her home. Aunt Joyce and Larry, her twenty-six year old grandson picked me up from the airport.

Anyway, once we returned to her home, it was like a flash to the past. Being an antique collector as long as I can remember, she retained many of the pieces I remembered. From the Tiffany style lamps to the beautiful hutches which enclosed china and Hummel figurines along with porcelain dolls or treasures from family members.

The harvest gold stove and oven next to the golden tones to the rest of the kitchen took me back to the seventies. Her appliances were immaculate as were her pots and pans from fifty-eight years ago when she got married. I learned her secret for keeping them that way. She uses a piece of brown paper bag, (which she has several cut up and ready for use in her cabinet) and Comet. Her comment was, “If you use this every time for prevention, they will always stay new looking and easy to clean.” I quickly thought back to my pans, which aren’t but a few months old and already they are discolored on the bottoms. I made a mental note.

Watching her perform in the kitchen, as a seventy-seven year old woman, was no different than it was thirty years ago, although she moves a bit slower, she moves with purpose. I watched in awe. Still, she sifts her flour three times before she uses it for her cookies or cornbread. Everything she cooks is from scratch, including her sweet tea and she still has no dishwasher, nor does she want one. She has a special plate, cup or spoon for whatever she is making or serving. Each piece has either sentimental value or a certain function.

As I watched, day after day, I noticed more and more similarities between the two of us. Even though I haven’t watched her, I still have somehow managed to get some of her behaviors or quirks. I’m certain she was influential with my mom too so I probably got them there too. One thing is I have a love of antique jars, but I know that started from looking at all of hers when I was a child. She had so many and they were all filled with different candies, teas, and cookies. It was like going into a store.
We sat at the kitchen table most of the time and had our visit there. She showed me the silverware my father gave her because he was tired of seeing her use mismatched pieces. Talking about this with such endearment always brought tears to her eyes. She eventually had some of the pieces put in a shadow box frame to capture the memory. Along with that, she framed the baby spoon she fed her grandson with. Mixed with some antique plates, this was her kitchen décor. A kitchen full of memories.

As we talked about years gone by, I became deeply saddened. Reality sank in. Life for her was about God, her kids and husband first, then her siblings and mom and dad next, all of them after God. My sadness came, I suppose because it seems that people are too busy for family in any capacity, immediate, extended, let alone starting with God. Too busy for God, kids, family, that’s sad, and yet, I am the first one to plead my guilt. Our families are so spread out across this continent that there is no room for unity, closeness or special times to develop. Each of us has our own little life and it seems we don’t want anyone to get into the way to interfere.

Personally, I’m sorry. I’m sorry I’ve missed out on the swim meets and the ball games and the wrestling matches the kids were in. I’m sorry I’ve missed out on the birthday parties, holiday functions and gift giving. I’m sorry that I didn’t feel worthy enough to participate in my own family. But, I’m going to change that now. I don’t want to miss another thing.

Fine Line to the Promised Land

There is a fine line about salvation. Some folks think they are saved because they know who Jesus is. And they know who Jesus is because of the Christmas story. That is a good thing at least the word is out there, but that is where the fine line comes in. On one side of the line is the knowing of who Jesus is, the other side of the line is living for Him, submitting your life to Him and believing everything He says…and doing it!

I remember before I got saved, I never wanted to talk about Jesus, just His name made me cringe! I’d go right up to the line and back away. I’d play around on this side of the line, talk about the need for church, being a good person, doing the right things, helping others, being loyal and faithful to your mate, but whenever I’d come close to the line of Christianity, I’d get very scared and back away.

Why? I had my doubt that it was real. I wasn’t sure that Jesus was even real. I wasn’t sure the Bible was real. What if I became a goody two-shoe? What if I lost myself and became someone else? What if nobody liked the new me? I was afraid to have faith. I was afraid to trust. But, God didn’t give up on me. Eventually, the line came so close to me that I had to cross it, by faith.

On the other side, faith carried me. I had to trust that the Bible was truth. Once I crossed over, the whole world seemed to change! Oh, I know it was me, but at first, it seemed like it was everyone else. But the fine line that seemed so scary, was really all about faith and trust. Once I made my decision to follow Jesus, I had to learn about Him and I did that by reading the Bible, starting in John. It wasn’t really that hard. But I’m sure glad I did. I remember it was a hard decision crossing that line and it seemed like it took forever to cross, but once crossed, my life has been truly blessed.

Come on over into the Promised Land!

The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard

Matthew 20:1-16 1 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. 2 Now when he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 And he went out about the third hour and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4 and said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right I will give you.’ So they went. 5 Again he went out about the sixth and the ninth hour, and did likewise. 6 And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing idle,[a] and said to them, ‘Why have you been standing here idle all day?’ 7 They said to him, ‘Because no one hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right you will receive.’[b]8 “So when evening had come, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, ‘Call the laborers and give them their wages, beginning with the last to the first.’ 9 And when those came who were hired about the eleventh hour, they each received a denarius. 10 But when the first came, they supposed that they would receive more; and they likewise received each a denarius. 11 And when they had received it, they complained against the landowner, 12 saying, ‘These last men have worked only one hour, and you made them equal to us who have borne the burden and the heat of the day.’ 13 But he answered one of them and said, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? 14 Take what is yours and go your way. I wish to give to this last man the same as to you. 15 Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with my own things? Or is your eye evil because I am good?’ 16 So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen.”[c]

After reading this for the umpteenth time, I once again had to repent before the Lord. I am so much like the first set of workers and so much like the Lord. I would easily give the last workers the same money (if I had it to give) knowing they needed it for their family's welfare just as much as the first workers, yet as the first worker, I would feel cheated. Why can't we just mind our own business? Is that human nature, part of the sin/selfish nature? And what do you think Jesus meant when he said at the end "the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen." I always thought that meant something way different because it was spoken out of context, but here in context, it is clearly saying something important. What is it? Don't be so darn selfish? Think of someone besides yourself for a change? Am I called or am I chosen?

Lord, help us to answer these questions and be in the right place at the right time for You.

We love you! Amen.

9.20.06 Daily Entry

I had another nerve injection in my back yesterday. I don’t mind them because after the initial down time, they do make me feel much better and I get some longevity out of my day. OH...I lost two pounds from my last visit. I knew I had lost, but I had also gained and lost and gained and lost, but having an overall loss on the books is a good feeling. :-)

Gary is such a good nurse! I know I drive him crazy even when I’m not needy, but he is very good natured about it and takes it all in stride. I’m so glad he’s mine and that we don’t fight. We are such a suited pair. Thank You, God, for connecting us. I really don’t know what I’d do without him. (And I don’t want to find out!)

I’m feeling better today, even though I couldn’t sleep. I’ve been stirring since about 2:30 this morning and decided to get up. My internet is down, so I couldn’t get my favorite Christian station, http://www.kvtt.org/, but I have plenty of music on my computer, so me and Terry MacAlmon are being mellow together with God. Both kids are sleeping, Lucy is on the couch snoring away and Wrigley is under my keyboard on my lap. He is contented to stay put until I start moving too much then he gets aggravated and moves to a more peaceful place…his own bed.

I’m hoping to get some stuff done around here today. I have a bunch of craft stuff I want to take to Brookhaven. Since my writing career took over my life, I don’t have time for crafts anymore and they are just collecting dust. I know they can bless someone and Mom suggested the nursing home. When I called they were delighted to receive them, so I went downstairs and put them all together. Now I just have to get them up there.

So, that is about it for now, still job hunting, please keep that in prayer. Thanks and God bless!

Journey Back to the Lord Book Signing

Saturday evening I had a book signing at my friend Gentry's house. It turned out very successful and I sold a few books. She and her granddaughter cooked up a feast of fried chicken, chicken salad dips with crackers along with veggie and fruit trays. I brought the cake.

The group started small and gradually increased as the evening went along until there were about seven of us total. It was nice and personal. I was able to read some of my book; we talked about how I got started and why. One lady, Erma, has been writing her book for several years and asked me for pointers and advice! I was flattered and honored. God moved very strongly that evening. Folks prayed for one another and for me. I needed a night of fellowship with the girls and with the Lord. Selling books was just a bonus.

I came home very inspired to keep writing and to get back into God's Word. I've always known God's Word and had it in my heart, but if you don't use it, you really do lose it and well, I'm ashamed to say, that I've lost a lot of it. I don't think I'd fall for false teaching, but I know I couldn't quote Scripture like I could once upon a time and that only comes from reading the Bible, so that is what I've been doing and it feels so good!

I like doing the book signing in people's home rather than in a store. Much more personal and people know what they are there for...to buy books. But, my books, being Christian books, I usually will have a Christian crowd, so it easily can turn into church!

Isn't God good?

General Week Catch-up

It's been one busy week. I got my unemployment set up, not too hard but you really have to make sure all of your i's are dotted and t's are crossed so it doesn’t get goofed up. I do NOT anticipate spending the next six months unemployed, even though it sounds good I know it won't get us where we want to be.

After registering on Monday, I pretty much took Monday and Tuesday off and hung around here messing around. Wrigley had a nail appointment on Wednesday, so we took extra time and walked a couple of extra blocks before we got there. He really needed some exercise! He's been so hyper lately. I don't think the rainy weather has helped him.

Lucy had a mild seizure on Sunday while I was at Church, thank God; Gary didn't go and was here with her. That is such a fear of ours is that she will have a seizure while we are gone. To our knowledge this hasn't happened. Dr. Carin increased her meds from 1 1/2 twice a day to 2 twice a day and she seems a bit sleepy and somewhat sad sometimes, but much better.

Thursday and Friday were kind of "wash" days as I did NOTHING around the house. We had errands to run, but did have some fun. We got to see Thom when we went to get my last check. Also, we finally used my gift card for The Station restaurant. WOW! They sure have good burgers. Gary and I got them to go and went to the channel and had a picnic. Once again, I didn't have a fleece in the van and I was cold! Gary laughed. We keep promising to keep something in there but always forget. Sometimes to my advantage because last time we did this, I had to buy a sweatshirt. We ate quickly and fed the seagulls our leftover bread and came home.

Here it is Saturday and I haven't done any writing! I have just about gotten Journey Back to the Lord ready for publishing. Now, I wait on the Lord.

I have a book signing today at a very good friend’s house. It will be with a bunch of her friends from church. I'm looking forward to it! So, today will be getting the last of the things ready for that. It is from 4-7. Somewhere in there will have to be a nap! :)

Parting Is Such Sweet Sorrow

Yesterday was my last day at work. Running through my list of final task made the day go pretty quick. I packed the remaining few things in my van then went on a fast "Good-bye" tour through the plant. With a lump in my throat and a smile on my face, hard hat and safety glasses in hand, I marched on.

I was met with a lot of "well wishers." The ones I saw were divine appointments. I had said "Good-bye" to the other shift and there were a certain few that I really wanted to see before I left and God made that happen for me. One guy in particular I had prayed about having a face to face meeting and then got so busy leaving that I forgot to make that happen. In my walk through, I walked straight into him and said what I needed to say. It was good and so is God.

Finally, my day at work ended after lunch and I went home to prepare for the party. I was unsure who all would show up from work at the local pizza place, but I knew it would be fun and it would be the right mix. Sure enough, folks started drifting in; I think there was someone represented from every area of the plant. Some of the folks that were no longer working there came to the party and it was great to see them. At one point there were more of the ex-employees then current workers.

As the evening drew to a close, the moment I silently dreaded all day came; saying bye to Thom, my best friend at work, my defender and my confidant. I was going to miss our time together. We were a good team, either in accounting or IT, we worked well together and I was sad to see eight years go. I'm thankful that Gary and he are friends too. We'll do lunch and hopefully more than that, but it was just so final and sad.

So, with a kiss and a hug we said good bye and went on our way...

Seizure Number Two

Last night after another stressful day, I went to bed very tired, but couldn't sleep. I lay there for about ten minutes and got up, leaving Lucy in the cool room. After about thirty minutes, Gary heard her and looked at me with the look I know all too well. I jumped up from my chair and ran to the bed and sure enough, she was having another seizure! This one didn't seem quite as bad as the one from the day before, since she didn't have the heartbreaking cry which usually accompanies them, but still the more she has, the harder they get on her and us.

Reassuring her that I was there and that she was okay is basically all we could do until she comes through it. Once she is done, she is so happy. She is clumsy and very confused and often blinded, but still very happy.

I don't know if she remembered the treats from the previous night or not, but after she had her medication, she was ready for more. I reached into the freezer and she knew she was getting the orange treat. Wrigley wanted some too. This time, I used a very sharp knife and cut it in chunks for slower eating, but still she gobbled it down pretty good. Then she got more food and within forty-five minutes she was sleeping.

I'm so glad that it is not lasting the three hour sessions like before. I'm very glad I read: http://www.canine-epilepsy-guardian-angels.com/. This site gave me some great information on dealing with an epileptic dog.

Lucy seems fine this morning. I'll call Dr. Carin again. It may be time to increase her meds.

Seizures and Stress

Stress Relief

Friday is my last day at work. I am very excited to move forward in what God is planning. After all of the mounds of stress that I have felt over the last several months and then the last couple of weeks, I have been very worried about Lucy. You see, she has epilepsy. Dr. Carin says that they can come about if she feels the stress of her humans

So, you can see why I’ve been so worried about her. But…no seizures! Although, the last couple of days have been a bit different about her, and I can’t tell you what the difference has been, but I have been expecting and watching her carefully out of the corner of my eye. Gary has too. We didn’t talk about it because we didn’t want to “jinx” her, not that we believe in that kind of thing but we just didn’t want anything to come against her.

Last night, I was talking to Mom and telling her about my “release” from my job and our plans going forward, along with trying to help her fix her printer, (while she is 1100 miles away) when I looked over on the couch and Lucy was just beginning to go into a seizure. Quickly, I dropped the phone and ran to her aid, as she lay paralyzed on the couch, in one huge muscle cramp.

Gary turned down the TV and ran and got an ice pack and an wet rag to wipe her head. She was overheated. Did that make her have a seizure? I don’t think so; it wasn’t that warm in here, but maybe. Was it the release of my tension that she somehow felt? I don’t know. I think it’s awful coincidental though, don’t you?

Anyway, the seizure lasted about a minute and seemed very intense, more so than any in the past. It always blinds her and makes her very confused when she comes out of it. As I was talking to her, she sniffed me as if to say, “Is that you, Mom?” But then she dropped her head back to the couch and wait about twenty seconds and do it again.

Once her eyesight returned, she wanted water and plenty of it. Gary was already getting her extra pill ready. She had just had her evening medication an hour earlier, but she got another dose, just like the doctor instructed.

I read on a website somewhere that after a seizure it’s helpful to give them something sweet like ice cream because it brings up their blood sugar. Well, with Gary and I doing the Weight Watchers thing, I don’t have ice cream in the house, but…we had creamcyles! And they worked perfectly. They also said that going through a seizure was like running a marathon and that they burned a lot of fuel and needed replenishing, so I gave her another scoop of food. (Of course, little brother Wrigley had to have some too.)

She drank at least one bowl full of water if not two. Gary is the water bowl filler, so I’m not sure, but it was a lot. And she paced the living room for a little while, but not nearly as long, I’d say a quarter as long as ever before after applying the little tricks we read from the web. I think cooling her down, which we did with an ice pack and the cool rag and the creamcycle along with more supper made a huge difference in her recovery.

It seems so tragic to watch her go through such a thing. Gary had to immediately kennel Wrigley. He wanted to play with her cuz he didn’t understand what was going on. When he came out of the kennel, (he wasn’t in there ten minutes) she sniffed him in her passing as she paced, as if to say, “Oh, you’re my little brother.” It was cute to watch them.

Of course, now that she’s had one, Gary and I won’t get a good night sleep for a while, both will be on guard waiting and watching every twitch she makes. Usually, she has them at night as she is going to sleep, so when she had it last night, it was close to her bedtime, 7:30. Hopefully, and prayerfully, this was a fluke and we won’t have anymore.

It's a Date!

Last night we had the perfect date! Leaving the kids behind, we headed off towards Grand Haven to watch the Musical Fountains. Even though it was muggy outside and I was a bit sleepy, I agreed to get out of the house for a little while. Ordinarily, I'm such a "stick in the mud" and never want to do anything, but I wanted to please my husband and he said it wouldn't be too long.

Once we got there and found a parking spot, we decided to get an ice cream. Instead, we went into the coffee house on the boardwalk. We opted for a frozen chocolate mocha. Then we found a table outside to sit at and watch the people. I was dressed in shorts and a t-shirt and became so cold I wished I'd have brought a fleece. Being the wonderful date, that he was, Gary took me to one of the shops and bought me a sweatshirt souvenir. It's a beautiful orange/peach color with a lighthouse embroidered on the front.

Finally warm, hand in hand, I was able to concentrate on the enjoyable conversation and the dancing fountain. My husband...very generous, loving and so sweet!

Instruction

Psalm 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.

I have been thinking a lot about this Scripture lately, wondering just how does God instruct me with His eye? I do a lot of teaching or "instructing" others on the computer. I can "see" where I want them to put the curser and where they need to put the curser to complete the task they want, but rarely do they ever put it where it needs to go the first time I give them the instruction. They haphazardly move the mouse around the screen searching for a place to land, hoping it is the right place.

All the while, I'm in the background, watching, mumbling, "stop, there, no, here, nope too fast, go back, there, wait, uh, okay, stop for a minute and wait for that to finish and go back." Watching them click away as if they knew what they were doing, in the beginning was very frustrating for me, but over time, I've learned that that is what folks are going to do until I tell them to stop and go exactly where I say. It stops their frustration and we can both get on with our business. Now, all the while, my eye is on the goal, but they can't see it and they can't see me trying to instruct them with my eye. They don't even see me looking at the goal.

We must have to be pretty connected to God in order for Him to instruct us with His eye. I mean, really, think about that for a minute. For Him to gaze at us and then request something from us and then us actually respond? That is pretty incredible, don't ya think? Psalm 34:15 says, The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous.

Back on Track

Well, it's been three weeks since Mom and Papa left and I've lost about five pounds. Not that I put it all on when they were here...it started when Gary and I went on vacation. I knew it was coming and was okay with it, but when we came back to company and out to eats it was very difficult for me to make healthy Weight Watcher choices. But, once they left, Gary and I were able to jump back on program and get the weight back off.

I'm very grateful that I went to Weight Watchers and learned about the points plan and how to eat healthy. I sure feel better when I do. I have not gotten a lot of new clothes because I wear a uniform at work and don't wear much at home other than pajamas or a pair of shorts. I did buy a pair of jeans that fit and then I bought a bunch of smaller t-shirts. Gary too lost so much that he needed new jeans and shorts and shirts. Hopefully, they will all be too big for us for next summer as we still have much more to go.

Being back on track in my writing has taken a much longer time frame than I am comfortable with. I actually wrote on vacation, but sometimes, I let things bother me to the point that I can't even write about them. And now, I just feel "stuck." Writing in my blog is a huge step forward, so maybe, I can get back on track with some of the projects that I started before vacation. I hope so.

Not Perfect

Dear Friends and Family,

I regretfully must inform you that, well...I, uh...am, not perfect. I know. I can hear your questions already, "What is she talking about? We already know she's far from perfect! We know her!"

Well...thanks for that, but really. I guess I just needed to say it for myself. You see, I know that I write good stories about how God saves and rescues us, which is all good and true, but until we get to that point, there is usually a very strong emotional struggle. Unfortunately, that is the part most people see, at least with me. And then they see me good again, but they are quick to judge and judge harshly. I suppose, that is only human and I should just let that go, but sometimes, it's hard when I'm trying to see through the fog of enemies plan.

So, what am I saying now? I guess that I'm not perfect and I know it, but I am forgiven by the One who counts. I do always try and live by the Golden rule and treat others as I would like to be treated. Even if they "don't deserve it." Who am I to say? God may be giving me a test? Am I going to pass it? Sometimes I fail miserably and end up feeling so sorry for myself, crying, "Why doesn't anybody like me?" The real question is: Does it matter? God loves me and that should be enough. But, sometimes it isn't and I need to get back to the truth.

We are in a spiritual battle and our battle must not be fought in the flesh, against people, where I get my feelings hurt. That is the truth and that takes the sting away! Thank God for the answers! So, no, I'm not perfect and I struggle with everyday issues but it makes for great writing material! I love you guys!

April May Fox

April's mom was out of town for over a week and we were her caretakers. We didn't mind as we love her like our own. She looks like Wrigley and at the fence they look like mimes, jumping at the same time, barking and running at the precise time. It’s quite comical. Although she stayed at her house, she was a very good girl. She kept Gary and me very busy during the heat wave we had here this week. You see, April is used to being outside, but her mom left the air on, so we left her inside most of the time. I bought her a bone like Wrigley so she would have something to do. She loves it! Now, she runs to get it whenever we go check on her. Although I worried about her like a mom, I'll be glad when her mom comes home and so will she. Yesterday, she pulled a pillow out off of the back porch and put it by the driveway gate and laid on it and waited. She knows her mom is coming any minute.

Home Sweet Home

We had such a wonderful time in Frankenmuth! Mom and Papa did a fantastic job with Lucy and Wrigley. It was hard to come back to reality although it was time for some visiting, since I hadn't seen my folks for over a year. Talking to them on the phone and via the internet just isn't the same as reaching out and touching them. I'm trying hard not to be a pushy daughter, but I do feel that it will be time soon for them to come home. Texas is a long way away. They don't want to deal with the winters, but I don't want to deal with the distance. So, we'll see what God wants to deal with.

They went on their journey to the east side of the state for vacation and ministry. Please as you read this, say a quick prayer of protection for them. They took along with them 40 of my books, so they will also be my traveling salesmen. :-)

The temps and humidity are in the 90's so I'm hybernating in the air conditioning. Gary and I are also dog-sitting for our neighbor. She is so sweet, but she is a jumper, so I have some training to do.

Anyway, hopefully, I'll be back in the swing of things soon. Back to blogging and writing.

Frankenmuth Trip

7.19.06

Finally in Frankenmuth!

After receiving an early checking, Gary and I came to our room. Waiting for us inside was a rose and box of chocolates along with several coupons good for food, carriage ride and other goodies. Excited to be here and tired from the ride, we tried to rest after unpacking, but couldn’t stand the wait any longer and headed off to Bavarian Inn for an early chicken dinner. We ordered an appetizer, which we didn’t need, but we only tasted one of each and boxed up the rest for later. Pacing our treats for the four days of our vacation…oh yeah, my folks invited us to stay an extra day!

The “Muth” as is known by us and the Saunders hasn’t changed and is as wonderful as I last remembered. It is in its mid-week lull so it’s nice and quite. I’m going to the employment office this morning. After talking with several of the folks around and watching the website for so many years and staying here, I’d love to work here. And the dresses, well, God dealt with me and wearing dresses a couple of years ago, so it’s no big deal, just another uniform.

Yesterday was a really long day, quite unusual for a fun day. After we ate, we went to Kroger and bought some snacks and stuff we forgot for the room. Then we took a nice nap. We got up and went downstairs to the gift shops. They have some really cool stuff but is it stuff I need? It’s still out for debate. We went to the lounge to see Marko, but he wasn’t playing. There was another team playing. Last night was their first night and they did really well. It was a light crowd but it was fun and something to do. We had a snack…Ruben egg rolls. Very tasty.

Mom called earlier, around 7 and told me that Wrigley misses me. He really does have sad eyes, but we knew he’d get her with them. After talking to him on the phone, I got him riled up. He started barking and I had to have Mom tell him to go get his bone so he would have some way to release his energy.

I am so blessed they are in good hands with my folks. I have no worries at all!

Thursday was so much fun! We did a lot of running around but there were two very special memories that we had. The first one is about my book. We went to give one to Mr. Bronner at Bronners CHRISTmas store. I asked if Mr. Bronner was in because I wanted to give it to him personally, but would drop it off if that was the only way. The receptionist called him and he wanted to speak with me on the phone. I refreshed his memory of who I was and he remembered! He said he was very busy, but wanted to come and greet me himself but could only take a few minutes. I said I understood and we hung up. Before I knew it, he came through the door, grinning. I showed him my book and the things that I had for him and thanked him for his time. I told him that I cared about him and needed to “connect” with him. He thanked me profusely, kissed me right on the lips and gave me a great big hug! I floated out of the office and throughout the rest of the store. I would like to sit down and have a cup of coffee with him some day.

The next memory we made was much later in the day. We went to the lounge to see Marko…the live entertainment here at the Bavarian Inn Lodge. He is a funny guy, plays a guitar, sings any song, any genre, plays the crowd and helps people have fun. In the lounge folks bring their kids, old and young alike come to hang out, have dinner or snack food. Gary and I got there kind of early, close to 8. They play a song, called the “Snitlebunk Song” and it takes some of the wait staff to help him, along with the audience to sing. I had never heard of it, but Gary had and wanted to hear it. They only play it every so often, so we were there early enough to hear them and participate in the sing-a-long. We had our picture taken with Marko on his stage and then through out the evening, he kept giving Gary hints to get out on the dance floor with me, but Gary wouldn’t take any. Finally, around 10, we were getting ready to leave, the place was packed and we were waiting for the check, Marko called everyone’s attention to the couple at the back of the room…US! Explaining that it was our 20th anniversary and wouldn’t they love to see us dance. Then he played a song, “First dance, for the rest of my life…” it was so romantic. Of course, the crowd went nuts clapping and Gary couldn’t not dance with me so we went up and danced and then some others came out to help us out. Another couple had been married 43 years. When the song was over everyone clapped and we went to our table. Once our check came we started to leave and Marko made another comment. “Say good night to the honeymooners” And everyone said good night and waved and made comments about “I know where your going” it was silly and fun. We had a lot of attention.

On the way back to our room, we met three girls and one of them said, “This is the bride to be…” I said, good for you, we’ve just been married twenty years. They said, “Wow!” We had this conversation as we passed in the hall.

It was such a fun day, I wonder what today will bring? God is so good!

Preparation

My mother is coming! :-) And it is good. After being disappointed about not going on vacation over our birthday and anniversary, my mom and stepfather came to the rescue and agreed to come a couple of days early for their visit to play with the kids. Please pray for their safe travel as they are driving up across the country, headed in this direction. It will only be for about two and a half days and then we will be home.

I need the break away from work...a nice get-away to our home away from home. Frankenmuth, what a sweet little town, we just love it there. We can feel God's peace on the town. I'm hoping to meet Mr. Bronner again, but if not, I will leave a copy of my book for him along with the picture we took last year at his book signing. He will remember me. What a nice man!

I have a ton of things to do today to prepare for mom's visit and it's going to be very hot outside, so I will have to do my outdoor chores early. Of course, I do have to wait for the hay maker to come out and give me some light first. :-) And hopefully, my back holds out.

I haven't written much this week. I wrote one story to enter into a contest and have gotten good reviews so far. I've sold quite a few books and ordered my second hundred. I've been working on Journey; it's almost ready for print. So, the next funds go to printing Journey!

Also, I've been letting people know that I'm available for speaking engagements at churches. As scary as that is, I know it's God's time and will. So, I will be preparing something on paper but I know once I get in front of people, it will only come from my heart. I've done it before, but it's been years ago. God is up to something good. :-)

Well, dear readers...I think I'll go work on building that computer and getting that off of my list.

God bless you!

It's about Forgiveness

Colossians 3:12-13 NKJV

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another, even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.

Often times, after being hurt in some way talking about forgiveness is not what I want to do. However I always know I must come back to this truth in order to get free from the bondages that deceive my mind. You know the re-runs of the wrongs that the other guy did? The tape plays over and over until we’re all worked up again. The enemy once again, gets a foothold and we’re back where we started.

We feel bitter, resentful and angry, possibly even towards God for letting the situation happen in the first place. I certainly have been there, too many times to count. And why? Because I refused to look at the truth, which is the Word of God. And why? Because I think I can do it myself. It’s a trick of the enemy for us to be self sufficient, instead of relying on God and His power. God, our Father has given us His power to conquer the schemes of the enemy if we will read His word and find the truth.

And the truth is to forgive as Christ did. It takes the power out of the hurtful punch.

Heavenly Father, we come before you with broken hearts. We need healing and forgiving. We ask not only that you heal our hearts, but Father that you heal the hearts of those that have hurt us. Please help us to forgive those who we have harbored judgments against and held resentments against. We ask for Your divine healing in all areas of our lives, that we may be Your witnesses, in Jesus name. Amen

Fizzled Out Firecracker

Yesterday was my birthday. Today, my 20th anniversary. After such a disappointing Sunday with our vacation plans ruined and Monday we just hung around here, did a little grocery shopping to prepare for the fourth, yesterday went off without a hitch. Well, it started out at 2:30 in the morning with a car load of teenagers knocking at our door. Of course, they either realized they were at the wrong house or that the dog sitter wasn't there, I'm not sure which, but I think it was the latter. They heard Lucy and Wrigley barking and raising cane and they got out of their. The neighbor lady asked them what they were doing. Needless to say, we were awake, so I got up, Gary waited while I took the kids out and I stayed up for a while.

My heart has been having those palpitations ever since Friday when I had a discussion with my boss regarding work conditions at the office. Then the ordeal with the vacation just made it worse, so it was obviously stress related. When I woke up so early, I just knew what I needed to do...write. After writing a couple of letters, getting things off of my chest, I feel much better.

I went back to bed around 5am and slept till 8:30! We hung around and Gary grilled short ribs. He went and bought us some potato salad and baked beans, along with a dozen peach and pink roses. The flowers are so pretty. Lucy and Wrigley and I sat outside while he grilled.

A lady walking her dog down the alley sparked the interest of Lucy and Wrigs. Gary tried to warn me, but not fast enough. By the time I swung around to grab Wrigley's collar, he was already taking off. Rather than risking breaking the extenda leash, I decided to drop it, but not before he pulled me off my seat and on the ground. I hit my knees so fast, I didn't know what happened. Laughing, I just let myself go, so I didn't break something! The lady in the alley asked if I was all right. Of course, just a bit embarrassed. I walked back to the fence to retrieve Wrigley, as he was coming to see if I was okay.

After dinner, we took a ride around the lake in Grand Haven, saw the traffic and the people and came home. Mom was on line, so we watched the Macy's fireworks on TV together. It was nice because I didn't miss them and we got to oohhh and ahhh together, even though we're 1200 miles apart.

It was too late for me to go see them here and with Lucy and Wrigley, I'm actually glad we were home. There's no reason to upset them. All of the racket and the folks in the neighborhood playing with firecrackers, it is just good that we were home to make sure they were safe. Yes, it was very disappointing, but I think I'd rather be disappointed, knowing that my kids are safe, than worrying the whole time I was away, supposedly having fun. So, our weekend was pretty uneventful, but everyone is safe and relatively happy and very full.

Vacation Woes

“But God, I don’t understand. I’m trying to get over it and stop worrying, but the feeling in the pit of my stomach, You know, the one that makes me feel kind of sick for no apparent reason? It won’t go away. I call it my peace indicator. When I have Your peace, I don’t have that feeling in there, but I don’t have Your peace and I can’t seem to get it. I don’t know if I should be grateful or devastated. At first I was the latter, but after having some time of reflection, now, I’m disappointed for sure, but at least I know everyone is safe and relatively happy.” Discussing the situation with God, I wiped a run away tear from my eye.

“I thought our plans were pretty solid. We trusted the boy to be here when he said he would. Leaving the dogs with people they know and that we trust is important. We prepared them and him for a month. I am totally surprised still, that he called as we were half way to our destination to find he was in another city two and a half hours away from home! I should have listened to my gut then that said to turn around and come home, but I wanted to go on to celebrate our 20th anniversary. I somehow wanted to make it okay so we could still go on our vacation. After all, our friends were meeting us there, the next day. The boy’s story became a wild tale as he rambled on until I just couldn’t let it be okay anymore.

The more I thought about what he said, the more it didn’t make sense. Did he think I was an idiot? I had my husband call him and see what he got out of it. Now the boy was saying he might not be home until later that evening. We turned the car around after being ten minutes away from our destination and drove the three hours back home. Thank You, God that my kids were safe and they didn’t have any accidents in the house. They were so excited to see us! And we were relieved to see them and the house in one piece.”

After I unpacked everything, I still had the stomach thing and the heart palpitations going on. Not being able to find God’s peace, I prayed and forgave the boy for being irresponsible. God knows, I’ve been irresponsible a time or two in my life, especially at eighteen. I feel bad for the boy, but he still refused to take any responsibility for his actions. It was his friends fault or our fault for not trusting him, when we couldn’t trust him…he wasn’t here! He didn’t get it, but I hope and pray someday he does.

I suppose it could be worse, we could be having our vacation and he could have abandoned the kids or something could have happened and we really should have been. Lucy could have had a seizure, anything. Only God knows the plans he has for us, plans to prosper us.

As hard as this was to take, it was a lesson well learned. We can only have people care for the dogs that know them and that we know personally. And, leave wiggle room in your plans, something I don’t know how to do, but will have to learn.

Stolen Kiss

It's 5:15 Saturday morning. The cool Michigan morning air is cranking in through the window fan filling the bedroom. Lucy (my lab mix) must have gotten a sniff of something because she decided it was time to wake up. Quietly, she whimpered. I heard her but didn't make a move as I wasn't ready to start my day yet. Although we knew each other's next move, it was fun to play the game. I tried to stay in "snooze mode", while she attempted to wake me again…this time a little less subtle. Sliding over closer to me, she crawled across my stomach. Trying not to laugh, I scolded her, "Lucy, go back to sleep!" I threw the covers over her. She twisted the other way and threw herself back towards my head so she could lie in the crook of my arm, facing me. Still, I didn't move. We lay that way for about twenty seconds, then she put her paw on top of my hand and licked me ever so gently right on my mouth! I busted out loud laughing. The gig was up.

Holding her in my arms, like I have done since she was a little pup has always brought me joy in the morning and this morning was no different. I held her for a few minutes, relishing the time just to hold her. She is so soft and such a cuddler, I couldn't resist any longer. Of course, knowing we are going on vacation for a few days didn't help as I started to feel a bit guilty. I always miss her so terribly while I'm away. I can't tell you how many mornings she has made me laugh right out loud, just by being silly. I know there are plenty of folks that don't want their dogs in bed or on the furniture. In some ways, I don't blame them. I didn't want Lucy on them either when we got her. But you know what? You really miss a lot of their personality by keeping them at arms length away.

God's Job

Yesterday was a blast! I sold about 27 books at work and had so much fun talking to people. While I drove to work, I had a chat with the Lord. I prayed over the sales of the book and the book project. I asked him to help make the selling and the marketing part of being an author a fun joyful experience, because it wasn't my most fun part. I really just liked the writing part and wished someone else would do the selling piece. I also asked Him for financial backing. I need product to sell. I'm willing to go to churches, but it's hard to set appointments with only a few books on the shelf, so I need someone to buy books for me/Him...deposit into the book fund. It was quite a nice little discussion we had.

As the day went on, I sold all the books I had on hand, I sold to folks I wouldn't have even bothered asking before and I sold some of my first book too! I got some ideas for sales, like church bazaars, and possibly setting up a booth at Unity? I will need more books for that, so I need God to come through with the finances. Please people...pray. This is God's deal not mine. I would not have gone this far on my own. He wants these books out there so He'll make a way. Do you have any ideas? I'd love to hear them. Do you want a book? I'd love to sell one! :-)

Stories For Your Enjoyment

I belong to a wonderful website called Faithwriters. There is a bunch of great Christian writers here, who have inspired and helped develop my skills. I am very glad to be a member. I decided to post a link to my writings that I have out on their website, in case anyone wants to read them.

http://www.faithwriters.com/member-profile.php?id=15471

My short story book came out today! I'm very excited about it. The cost per book is 10.00 plus shipping, so if you want a copy, let me know. Send me your address and I'll get a copy to you. Heck! I'll even sign it for you. LOL

Thanks for your support, you guys, really. :-)

Brotherly Love

While staying with my brother this weekend, I learned some pretty interesting things. We chatted, (not near enough) about long ago family stuff, about our kids, (both his two legged and my four legged kind) and life in the fast lane. He wined and dined us, took us for ice cream and was a very gracious host. What I re-discovered is that he's a pretty great guy!

I have missed a lot of years in relationship with him which I regret. It's sad when family members are so spread apart in miles that their relationship never really develop much past the "Hi, how are you" stage. Can I blame the miles? I want to. I don't really want to take responsibility for being a bad sister but knowing me, I will.

My plan forward is to continue praying for strong family relationships. I do see where God has answered many prayers already. I mean, I was comfortable to invite myself to his house, so I didn't have to wait for an invitation. It's good to know the door is always open. It is also open in my heart. I love my brother very, very much, and I'm so proud of him!

Answered Prayer

The premise of my first book started because God didn't answer my prayer in the way that I wanted it answered. I was specific and as detailed as I knew how to be. I spoke it and called it, told folks and well, I just trusted God that it would be as I said. It wasn't. I was devastated! My life shattered, I didn't know how to proceed in relationship with God, since now, I didn't trust Him. I had to dig deep and after several months of living a lonely life without Him, I asked for His help. What He showed me was incredible. My prayer really had been answered. It just didn't look like it. I had prayed for a closer relationship with Him and me not getting my own way brought about a closer relationship with Him. As rough as that sounds, it really did turn out okay.

Yesterday, I got news of a very dear friend, an online writer friend, was in the hospital. The doctors were running tests and it could have been very serious all the way to just an infection. Rallying the prayer warriors, on line, at work...wherever God had people praying healing for him, he came home yesterday with antibiotics for the infection. Now...that was answered prayer! Thank You, God!

Father Figures

How many times have you written a piece at school about "What does Father's Day mean to you?" Well...that is what I'm going to do here, I think. Because I have had so many "father figures" in my life and because today is Father's Day, I thought it would be good.

My first father figure of course was my Dad, Luke Edward Calloway. I loved his name because it was different from most but it was the same as his dad’s. His friends and family called him Sonny. I never knew why, but after I grew up, I figured it was because he was the baby of the family. He was the only boy and the youngest and most cherished. Having a charismatic personality, everyone liked him and wanted to be around him, even his nieces and nephews. Smoking Lucky Strike cigarettes and drinking Pabst Blue Ribbon beer, I remember the combination scent mixed in with the Wild Country cologne on his leather jacket. His smile was big and charming. I was his only daughter and he was proud of me. Why, I don't know. I guess, just because I was his. I sat on his lap a lot and hung around him as much as possible.

When he was murdered around my tenth birthday, my life as I knew it was over. Because it was an unsolved mystery and still is to this day, I went into denial. Even though there was a funeral, I still didn't believe he was dead. I fantasized that someday he would return from the trip he was on. The longer he was gone, the more disappointed I became because he didn't tell me where he was. Eventually, I lost hope that he was coming back for me. Depression grabbed me and wouldn't let go.

By the time I was out of high school, I was a mixed up kid, on drugs, rebellious and hateful towards my stepfather, Hal, my second father figure. I remember when he came to live with us, right before my dad died, Mom married him. He tried to be nice to me, but then he stopped. I felt rejected and I guess at such a young age, decided that I wouldn't ever let anyone hurt me like that again, so I put up walls to defend myself. I began to act out. I started smoking at age eleven, and started drinking and doing drugs by the time I was twelve and thirteen. Whenever he tried to discipline me, I went off on an out of control tantrum. As I replay the scene in my head, I just needed a good old fashion spanking! But of course, that wasn't going to happen. I was too big and too far gone. Having such bitterness and hatred in my heart and no where to vent it, he got all I had. I put as much of a wedge between him and Mom as I could and eventually, their marriage fell apart. Not that it was my fault, but I didn't help it.

The next father figure was Mom's next and final husband, Papa Wally. He adored Mom from the start and wanted to be a part of us kids lives as soon as he met us. After hearing from Mom what all us kids, (my older brother and younger brother) had been through, he felt compassion on us and wanted so much to change our past for us. After receiving Jesus, he became a man of prayer and compassion. After losing my father, I had a hang up on calling another man "Dad" because my dad told me not to. I toyed with Hal, calling him dad and when he made me mad, taking it back or if I felt guilty for calling him dad, I'd stop, until I just didn't call him anything after a while. But I was a grown woman when Papa came into my life, so I wasn't going to call him Dad, although my little brother didn't have a problem with it from the start. Eventually, I thought it would be good for the grandkids to call him Papa Wally. He looked like a Papa Wally and it fit for me too. It was/is a term of endearment.

Mr. Wega, my best friend's dad, when I was in 5th and 6th grade, was a father figure to me. I really loved him. I didn't spend any real time with him, but like me, Licia was the only girl in her family and he loved her the same way my dad loved me. So, when he looked at me, it was a lot the same way my dad looked at me, very familiar and it felt good. He called me, "Buttercup." I melted every time.

Also, Mr. Smith, from church, right after I got saved, he hugged me like I believe my father would hug me. It wasn't a wimpy side hug you get from most men at church, which is understandable, but from Mr. Smith, it was a complete hug that fixed my Spirit too. I don't know how to explain it, but since my dad is gone, I never had a hug from a dad like this until I met Mr. Smith.

And then we come to my Heavenly Father. He has shown me how much I mean to Him and how valuable I am to Him. He has given me a lot of direction for my life. Being His daughter has been an honor and privilege. Calling my name and even changing it. Making promises to me without breaking them and actually following through on them makes me trust Him. Being a Father that I can trust at all times to listen when I need to talk, cry or vent my frustrations, is wonderful. Having a Father that is always available to deal with the stresses and take away the worries of life is precious. Letting him hold me and rock me to sleep when I’ve had all I can take for a day is awesome, knowing I’m not too big for his lap and that my issues are not too dumb or heavy for him to handle.

Father’s have their place in our lives but we can’t do without our Heavenly one.

Here is a link to a story I wrote: http://www.faithwriters.com/wc-article-level2.php?id=9170

Catch up...

Happy Father's Day to all of you dad's out there and to You, Heavenly Father.

I wanted to write something about Father's Day all week, but have been busy getting my Short Story book ready for print and it's on its way to the printer! I'm very excited about that I should have them in a couple of weeks, so look for them and please ask me for them. The title of the book is: Short Stories for Life's Journey and the cover I picked is of a bridge over a rocky area going over a lake. It looks good. The books I'm going to sell for 10 bucks and use that money to get Journey Back to the Lord, Second Edition back up and marketed. I'm very excited. I might use the same printer for the Second Edition, I'm not sure, and I’ll have to see how the pictures turn out when I print them. Anyway, please keep that in prayer. I have to have a new cover for that book too and have picked out a nice one of a cross. So...I've been very busy this week.

Also, Mom and Papa Wally are coming for their vacation from Texas at the end of July, so pray safety for their visit. They will be driving. I worry about them being on the road.

Gary and I are looking forward to our vacation over the 4th! Can't wait, but since Mom is coming, I have a lot of housework to do to keep me busy! :-)

Busy Weekend

This was a busy weekend for me, not a normal one. Usually, I spend most of my time writing, dodging as much housework as possible because, well...I have too much on my mind to write about, but this weekend, was "catch up." Plus, I had some "extra" work computer work that I was getting paid for so that kept me running up and down the stairs. I got quite a lot accomplished and feel good about it. I did not get much writing done, but that is what I will work on this week. Thankfully, I do have a task list that will keep me on track.

Father's Day is coming up and I think I will write something about that. I have some things stirring on the inside regarding all of the fathers in my life. So, we'll see how that plays out.

I'm also getting ready for a trip to Detroit...I say Detroit cuz it's easier, but that's not where I'm going...I'm actually going to the Pontiac area which is north of Detroit...West Bloomfield/Orchard Lake. I'm going to visit my big brother and his wife. It's been way too long since we've visited so my friend, Jeanne and I are going on a road trip. It will be fun. Then when we get back we're going to Frankenmuth for our birthday and 20th anniversary! That will be so much fun! We can't wait to go! Thank God for dog sitters! Yes, Lucy and Wrigley have to stay home, but they don't mind. They get spoiled rotten.

I Am Not Ashamed of the Gospel of Christ

In the writing class that I'm taking, it is suggested that Christian writers write devotions everyday. What a concept. I never thought of that. One, it gets them in the Word of God every day, which I surely need! And two, it is short and gets the writing out. So, I think I will put my hand to the plow and give it a shot. The first one, I sent in for my assignment, so I can't post it here. If they choose it, you will be able to read it in the magazine called Reflections. If they don't, then I'll post it here. Until then, I'll start with this one:

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the rightewousness of God is revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, "The just shall live by faith."

Wow! What a statement. I like to paraphrase sometimes to make things a bit more clear. I am NOT ashamed for it is the power to save everyone who believes. The righteousness of God is revealed and we are moved from faith to faith, never living in doubt. Yikes! That's pretty cool.

All it takes is believing. I believe and I want others to as well, but they don't. I am not ashamed of the gospel but I don't share it like I want to, or preach it like I wish I would. There are so many around me that need to hear the Word of God and need a touch of God but I don't open my mouth. Am I intimidated? I don't think so, but maybe I am. Am I like Peter, afraid of the mockery or worse? I'm not sure. I do know I want to see salvation come to others, so I pray, but then do I pray enough? It seems like there are always thoughts of doubt and condemnation coming in causing me to stumble that makes me lose my focus. I know where the thoughts come from and they are not from God and it is not living in faith.

So, where's my faith? Sometimes, I wonder, but most of the time, it's on God's Word and His promises. If He said it, I believe it. The best part of hearing God's Word once you become a believer is the comfort His Word, the Bible brings to your heart. It makes your faith so strong that nothing can come against it! That is the best place in the whole world to be. Standing on His promises, knowing His truth, believing...no lie from the enemy can penetrate that, no way!

My question to you is this. Are you ashamed of the gospel of Christ? Do you even know Him? Would you like to? He wants to meet you. In fact, He loves you already. Remember, living from faith to faith means not letting doubt inside your head.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for our Savior Jesus, who died on the cross for our sins and gave us the Gospel to be proud of and share with others. Lead those who read this and want you to salvation. Open their hearts to desire Your truth. Show us all how to line up things of the world against Your Word so we know what to believe. Teach us, Oh God, how to pray and believe in faith. In Jesus name we pray...Amen

God Lives in My Life

Today at church, Pastor Gary, had us repeat the phrase, "God lives in my life" a couple of times. Then he expanded on it and asked what types of questions did that conjure up in our minds. A couple that he tossed out for us to think about were: Are you excited about God living in your life? Since God lives in your life and He knows what you did yesterday and today is he pleased with the way you are living? God's power lives in us...are we tapping it? Or are we just having wishful thinking regarding it. I suppose for me the thought of having God's power living in me is quite overwhelming, let alone, God living in me! If I would think about this more often, I probably would think about what and how I said things...my tone and my words.

I would have more confidence in my prayers; I would speak in faith, really believing prayers would be answered, instead of hoping they will. I would live generously sharing what I have with others, knowing that when I run out of stuff, God would provide it again.

So, let me see, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, lives in me and I'm not using it? What's wrong with this picture?

Dear Heavenly Father,

Please forgive my ignorance, doubt and unbelief. Help me to live my life for You with You the leading force, not me. Help me tap into Your power. Please show me the way.

In Jesus name I pray...amen

Life is Good

As I was going to work the other day, I was praying and thanking God for His wonderful goodness and grace. Most of all I was glad to be glad again. What has changed? I asked myself why I was happy. It sure wasn't my job. Was there something in my life that was changing? You know, change always brings about emotion and usually it's happy, but that wasn't it. Continuing my prayer to God, I came to the conclusion that the reason for my joy must be the Joy of the Lord! I grinned up towards Heaven and gave thanks again, knowing that it had nothing to do with me, but everything to do with Him.

Aunt Stella

My Great Aunt Stella was a lady of awesome faith. In her late eighties, she had kidney surgery and bounced back so well, you wouldn't have believed she had recent surgery. Her faith was strong and solid. Sharing her faith was important and she did it with grace and wisdom. She was a happy woman of God. It didn't seem to me that she was shaken by much. She loved her family and she loved me. I remember the last few times that I was with her; I noticed how she looked at me, with the eyes of Jesus. She loved me so much. I remember my dad looking at me much the same way. It was weird. I say weird only because I didn't really know how to receive it, but I did notice.

My first memories of Aunt Stella are from the delicious homemade rolls she made for each and every family gathering. The aroma filled every nook and cranny of the house. You couldn't escape it and they were always saved for supper! Of course, if you got to Aunt Stella with Mom's back turned, she'd sneak one to you, but you had to be careful because then she'd have all of the kids lined up waiting for one!

A widowed woman as long as I can remember, she never missed an opportunity to get together. She loved to play card games and laugh.

Last week, Aunt Stella went to be with Jesus. Sad as it was here, I know she was well received in Heaven. Yesterday, while washing dishes, the Lord reminded me of the healing that has taken place in my family. I was taken back to a time when Aunt Stella came to Texas and stayed with my mom and her husband, my stepfather, Papa Wally. I too, was staying with my folks and Aunt Stella and I bunked together. Every night, she and I would lie in bed and talk. We had missed out on many years of being together with the loss of my father and there was much to catch up on. She wanted to hear about my salvation and my folks. Mostly, she was concerned with the rest of the family and how they would spend eternity.

After the years of animosity and distrust, Aunt Stella felt perfectly at ease spending an entire week at Mom's house. Why? Because we were all Christians, washed by the blood of Jesus...sins forgiven. We all had a common bond of Jesus, not my dad. It no longer was the hurt and pain of his death that brought us together, but the healing hands of Christ our Lord. As I thought about this miracle that took place in our lives, tears of gratefulness began to pour out of me. Sure, I was going to miss being with Aunt Stella and the faith she loved to share. But mostly, I was overwhelmed at the grace that Jesus shared with a hurting family.

Dandelion Hunter

While waiting patiently for the short ribs to BBQ, Lucy and Wrigley and I sat at the fence line and visited with April, the dog next door. April is an exact replica of Wrigley, only female and taller. We were caring for her while her mom was gone and even though it was hot, I wanted to give her some attention. I dragged a chair to the fence line, had Wrigley on the extenda-leash and we proceeded to visit. Miss April, was frustrated with the fence between us and kept jumping up on it. Eventually, she lay on her side of the yard and rested in the shade.

With her and Wrigley resting side by side, Lucy went on her hunt. Carefully, eyeing each dandelion patsy she began to roam the yard to determine which head got snatched. She didn't care if the head was empty or bright yellow or if it had the puff ball on top. All she wanted was to snap it in two. Finally, she found a patch and began her rampage. Seizing each dandelion head, one by one, quickly she plucked it between her teeth, shook her head to make sure it was dead and spit it out, then she moved on to the next victim.

After she was finished, she came and lay down, completely satisfied with her hunt. Continuing to watch the yard closely, she looked for her next victim. Eventually, eyeing another seemingly trouble maker several feet away, she walked past several dozen until she came to the one that was getting the axe. Snap! She bit the head off, spit it out and came back to lie down, next to me. I think she would have cleaned my whole yard, if we would have stayed outside, but it was getting too hot, so we had to come in.

Lemons and Lucy

Yesterday after we went out for a ride, we came home to a surprise. We had friends over on Friday for a fish fry, had lemons cut up in a bowl for the fish, but of course, we didn't use them all, so they stayed out on the counter. Not giving them a thought, when Gary and I went for our little drive yesterday day afternoon, not being gone more than an hour, we returned to an almost empty bowl! I asked Gary, "Did you toss these lemons?" He heard, "What should I do with these lemons?" He was standing down by the back door, I was in the kitchen, and Lucy was standing at the top of the stairs. I said, "No. I asked you did you throw these away?" As I walked over to the stairs to show him the bowl, Lucy let out a big ole burp. We both looked at her in disbelief! No way! We said as we looked at each other. She wagged her tail as if nothing happened. I gave her a piece of bread, a cookie and a Tums, hoping for the best. She took a big drink of water and had no problems at all with the lemons. Thank God!

I wonder, what was she thinking as she ate them? There must have been ten very thick slices of lemon in the bowl. Knowing Lucy like I do, she is always hungry. That is the result of her seizure medication. There was, however, a loaf of bread on the counter; I would have much rather her eaten. But, it was sealed and the lemons were in the open and smelled good.

Made me think of choices I make. Thing I put in my mouth that are quick and easy and smell good or do I put for a little effort and go for the nutrition. Works for the Word of God too. Sometimes, I'm too lazy to pick up my Bible and open the package and dig out the meat. I'd rather snack on the things that smell good and tickle my ears.

It's My Bone

We bought one bone and thought both dogs could share. What were we thinking? The bones were expensive, and Lucy didn't really chew it as much as Wrigley did, but she did gnaw on it occasionally. Christmas came and we bought two of the largest bones they had...19 ounces each! At first, both dogs went to their perspective corners and chomped away. Eventually, Lucy got board. Noticing an extra bone, Wrigley quickly ran to survey the damage, picked up the bone and took it to his kennel where he could work on it himself. The sibling rivalry began. Whenever Lucy picks up a bone, Wrigley is quick to snatch it away from her, regardless if he already has one.

Sometimes, Lucy will pick up a bone on purpose so that he will come and get it and start chewing it to get him out of trouble. She is a good big sister and very smart. On this particular day, Wrigley was laying on the bed, looking out the window. He had already been chewing earlier. Lucy plopped down and fell asleep. I couldn't resist the picture.

It made me think about my "bones" and how willing I am to share? There are some that I am very willing to share, but for the most part, I am very selfish, like Wrigley, I want mine and yours too. I don't mean to be that way, I just am. The "bones" in my life that I have to share, be it, time, money, things are hard for me to give up. I've either worked hard to achieve them or keep them.

Grateful Heart

Today, I'm feeling grateful. Grateful for my faith, my husband and my life. I know that God has a purpose and a plan for me. I understand that I need to walk by faith, not by sight. I also understand that as a writer, I have a lot to learn, but people want to read what I write. That is very encouraging. I'm thankful for my teachers and friends who have developed me and brought out my gifts. :-)

God's Peace

Yesterday, while praying I was asking God about what to do with my books. I asked Him to help me hear Him and be sure about His answer. Then I thought about how my friend, Milton commented and said that people hear God in different ways. I agree with that. Some people actually hear Him with complete sentences and directives. Me? I get His peace on situations. In this case, I must have forgotten, because I had peace, then when it was questioned, I got shaken. As I was asking God to direct me His answer was clear, "Be lead forth with peace."

As I thought about that, I remembered all of the times in the past, where He had me use that as my guide. If I had peace I could go, if I didn't, then I had to stop. Who can argue with God's peace? I wish I had such a close relationship that I could hear Him tell me stories and tell me of this thing or that thing. I know others that do, and I'd love it, but that is not what I have, yet, or for now. But, I'm not going to beat myself up over it, or stress myself out over it. God loves me, of this I'm sure.

Prayer Needed

I need prayer warriors to pray over me and my writing projects. I want/need to hear from God. Last time Journey was published, I was so excited to be writing for the Lord. I was in constant prayer. I knew that I knew how He wanted to finance the project. I had heard from Him and I knew what I was supposed to do. I didn't have any money to start with, so I started pre-selling copies. That started some funds. As I prayed, more money and donations started coming in. My faith was strengthened. I started speaking out God's plan for funding the book. Of course, I ran across resistance from my then editor and publisher. They pushed me to start before I was ready.

One night I had a dream. In this dream, there was a lady on the platform at church. She pointed to me and said that God was going to abort my book. I woke up scared. I knew that I had come too far to have the book aborted. I also believed the dream was not from God because God doesn't want abortions. So, at the thrill of seeing God's project complete, I pressed in with my strength, and forgot to consult God. I buckled under the pressure of the editor and publisher to spend finances that God didn't provide.

Eventually, I had a book, but it wasn't the book that I could be 100% proud of because I knew that I had gone out from God's grace and did it myself. As consequences, I found out that the publisher was not all I had expected, the editor was far from professional and there are errors that got left in the book.

So, God is giving me a second chance. The book, Journey Back to the Lord has a very good message, one I need to listen to myself again. It is a message about hope and pressing through the hard times. I believe that producing it as a Second Edition is God's will. It is basically ready. All accept the finances. I am back again where I was when I started the first book.

I need prayer for clarification so I can hear from God. I do not want to mess this up again.

Journey Back to the Lord, Book Update

Well, this is the direction that I believe the Lord is leading me in. Since my fiasco with my first publisher, which is the reason why you can't buy it on line or at a book store. I have decided to re-publish with a different publisher. Now, most everyone that knows me and many that don't have already purchased a book from me, so they probably won't purchase another one, however, I do need to get the book redone so that it can go out to the bookstores etc. The issue here is of course money. The money that I have from the books that I've sold is not enough to cover the publishing and the marketing and purchasing books.

So, what I'm thinking is, writing a book of short stories because I have quite a few of them. I sent out an email to my friends a family around Christmas time explaining a contest I had looking for a title. But anyway, if I publish a book of short stories, it would be a mix, fiction, pets, Christian, personal and devotional. If I were to purchase these books, then I could sell them to help generate funds for my Second Edition of Journey. Then, when I'm out there, marketing Journey, I would have two books people could buy if they wanted, while I'm writing my third! I really believe this is God's plan and I'm still praying about it.

Of course the short story book is not quite ready to go to print, but its close. Come back for more details.

Define Joy

According to John 15:11, NKJV, Jesus says, "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.

Now, my thoughts on this:

What was Jesus' joy? He said that His joy may remain in you. What was His joy? I know, or at least think I know when my joy is full. Like I said earlier, my joy was pretty full, but did I have His joy? Hmmm...something to think about.

Joy

After spending about four hours at work this morning, (which wasn't particularly joyful,) however, I did have a great deal of the Joy of the Lord in my heart. I left home about 7:30. On the way to work, I had an old song in my spirit, you know the one, "I will enter the gates with thanksgiving in my heart, I will enter His courts with praise. I will say this is the day that the Lord hath made..."And so my day began. I thanked God for being thankful. Have you ever done that? I love being grateful. It puts a bounce in my step and joy in my heart and a smile on my face. People wonder what I've been up to. I'm thankful for being an author and the road that I'm on. It has been a road of heartache and pain, but also a road of unspeakable joy!

My book, Journey back to the Lord has helped a lot of people in a lot of different ways. I'm glad the Lord showed me how to write it and that now is the time to put out the Second Edition. I'm looking forward to marketing it and getting in into the hands of people that want it.

Having a heart full of joy and gratitude is such a good thing because it doesn't have room for frustration. Negative emotions seem to dissipate into the air when you are full of the love of God.

Anyway, on my way home from work, I was listening to Third Day, Denis Jernigan and Darrell Evans and taking the traffic in stride. I wasn't in a hurry, although, after getting up at 4:00am, I was sleepy, I was very relaxed. I had peace and joy. I feel very mellow. God is so good!

Writer's Block

I'm trying to write a story or a little something about Joy. Now, as much as I love the Lord, my husband and my kids, you would think that I would have plenty to write about. Wrong! I've been up staring at a blank Word document for about an hour, at least and I have a couple of lame beginnings, but nothing I can really use. So...I decided to come to my blog site. If I'm just going to ramble, I might as well, ramble here and who knows, maybe the Lord will drop an idea into my tired brain and I can go write something. I know I haven't written everything under the sun about Joy.

What brings me Joy? Jesus brings me Joy. Why? Because I can trust Him and I can count on Him. I don't worry when I leave things in His hands. He loves me and He loves you. He is my answer. He is my strength. He gave me Joy for my strength!

Gary brings me Joy, especially when he does like he did last night. ;) He is so sweet and special to me. I want the whole world to know that I am proud of him and glad that he is my husband! He is a great man of faith. He has wisdom from above. God's favor rests on him daily. He leads our household with wisdom. "As for me and my house...we will serve the Lord." This is our statement of faith for our home. Can you believe that we will be married twenty years in July? TWENTY! I can hardly believe it myself. Yes, I expect, I will get a couple dozen peach colored roses after we get home from our home away from home...Frankenmuth.

Let me see, what else brings me Joy. Lucy and Wrigley, they also bring me Joy all the time. Just watching them interact with each other or with their dad. Lucy is a little cuddle bunny. When she gets tired she hops up into my lap and lays down or if she just wants Mom's attention. Then she flops herself backward so that I have to cradle her like a baby. That brings me a lot of Joy. Watching her run and play in the backyard with the neighbor dog, April. Lucy can hardly wait to get outside to see if April can come out to play. They run the fence line and get their exercise.

Wrigley, he is just a mushy mutt, especially when he is sleepy. He never waits for an invitation to come get on my lap. He just steps up on the chair and lays down. With his big brown slanted eyes, he melts my heart when he looks at me. He sometimes gets into a rambunctious streak in him, but when he is sleepy or in a mellow mood, he couldn't be a bigger cuddle bug. His fur is thin, so he has a lot of body heat. When I'm cold, I encourage him to come and get on my lap. Of course, both dogs know they have to share it with a keyboard. I did however have to get a cordless, because I got tired of having to rescue my computer from the floor as they would get their heads caught in the cord.

Meet the Kids

Meet Lucy and Wrigley. Lucy is the protective yellow lab, laying on her little brother Wrigley. Wrigley, who insists on laying on my foot. Lucy just turned 5 and Wrigley will be 2 in about six weeks. We rescued them both, Lucy from a shelter and Wrigley from the woods. He was a drop off. Both are wonderful kids. Gary and I don't have children other than these two. :)

We wouldn't trade them for a million bucks! God has shown me so many things about myself as I've watched and trained these guys. I will share some experiences as I blog away. Stay tuned...

Hi

Welcome to my blogging posts.

I decided as an author that it was my turn to begin blogging. I don't know what I will write. I'll leave that up to the Lord to lead me.

Touch base and see what is going on. I have several writing projects in the works.