"Be Still My Soul"

What a week!  Sheila and I spent 3 hours last Monday with lawyers, working on a case.  Then we spent the rest of the day discussing and finishing up the court report.  It was an intense day!

Then we woke up Tuesday morning to the news that Brother Wayne had passed away.  Such a sweet Christian man!  I know it will be difficult for Mayrene to go on without him, after almost 76 years of marriage.  We will all miss him, but I’m so thankful that he didn’t suffer long.  I will always remember, with gratefulness, the time that Ricky was working out in Brownfield and ended up in the hospital with strep and dehydration.  Brother Wayne was there to visit every day!  He also kept trying to get me to come over to sleep, or eat, or shower, or do whatever I needed while there.  It meant so much to both Ricky and me!  He was a good man!

The next couple of days were spent working on another court report and getting things cleaned up around the house.  Our house has been pretty topsy-turvy lately!  We tried to make it more livable, in case someone needed a place to stay for the funeral.  The visitation was Thursday evening, then the funeral and burial took up all day Friday.  I had planned to attend the Lunar New Year celebration with the girls on Saturday, but I decided I’d just stay home and rest up instead.  I’m glad I did!  Turns out, I was going to need it even more than I realized.

About bedtime Saturday night, I received a call from my (ex)sister-in-law (that I still consider part of the family) saying that she heard from someone that an ambulance was in front of Daddy’s house.  So she called and found out that Bobbie was being taken to the hospital again.  She tried to get Daddy to let her drive him, but, of course, he refused!  I gave him time to get to the hospital and then started trying to call him.  After about an hour, I got hold of him.  Bobbie had another spell where she was short of breath.  They started running tests and finally admitted her around midnight.  Tonette was in Corpus, so I kept her and Kathy informed as I found out anything.  Yesterday, I drove to Haslet for the morning assembly, so I could go back to the hospital with Daddy.  They had asked to be taken to a different hospital this time, and I wasn’t sure where she was.  I tried following him to the hospital, but that didn’t work out very well.  I finally ended up calling the hospitals that I thought she might be at until I found the right one.  I ended up getting there before Daddy!  She is actually doing pretty good.  They’ve done several tests and haven’t really found anything noteworthy.  I think there are several issues that are all working together to cause her to continue to have this problem.  They have both always been so independent that it makes it difficult for us “kids” to know how we can help them!  I discussed something I thought might help with Bobbie, and she agreed that it would be a good idea.  So I finally have their permission to go over once a week to help out with cleaning and laundry and whatever else they might need done.  I’m hoping that will allow me to stay on top of their situation a little better.  Things are changing pretty rapidly for them right now, and it is hard for them to admit that they have reached the point when they can’t do it all anymore.  Prayers for them (and us daughters!) would greatly be appreciated!

Dennis is feverishly trying to finish up Jesse’s birthday present this week.  We are leaving Thursday night for Paris and his party on Saturday.  (Friday will be a day of business for the guys…and playing for me and the boys!)  With everything going on, and all the wet weather we’ve been having, Dennis isn’t as far along as we’d hoped he would be by now!  I have faith that he’ll get it all done in time though.  I am really looking forward to some time with the grandsons! 

There are so many that are hurting right now, either physically or emotionally!  We really have a lot to keep us busy in ministering to others!  And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:9-10 KJV)

"Be Still, My Soul" by Catharina von Schlegel, 1697-?
Translated by Jane Borthwick, 1813-1897
1. Be still, my soul; the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul; thy best, thy heavenly, Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
2. Be still, my soul; thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence, let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul; the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.
3. Be still, my soul, though dearest friends depart
And all is darkened in the vale of tears;
Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe thy sorrows and thy fears.
Be still, my soul; thy Jesus can repay
From His own fulness all He takes away.
4. Be still, my soul; the hour is hastening on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul; when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

A very busy week!

There has been a lot going on this week, so we didn't get much accomplished in the kitchen.  Dennis' Uncle Hollis passed away last weekend, so we left Monday to go to his funeral.  Since Paris was practically on the way, we dropped by and visited with the family for a few hours.  The boys continue to grow more every time we see them.  Jesse is getting to where he can carry on a conversation now, so it is really fun to chat with him.  He enjoyed telling us all about their recent trip.  I had Skyped with the boys on Sunday evening.  I told Jesse that he needed to come see me.  He said he would get in the car and come "but not in the airplane".  I guess he wasn't very impressed with flying!  Ha!  Shepherd is growing like a weed!  He is about to catch up with Jesse!  He is learning new words all the time and can say a few sentences.  ("I love you" is my personal favorite!)  It was great to have some time to spend with them.  Mandy also prepared us a delicious supper, and then we were back on the road.  As we drove east, the setting sun cast the most amazing rainbow that I think I've ever seen.  It was a full arch and bright as neon...and a double!  The best part was that it stayed right in front of us for a LONG time...until the sun finally disappeared behind us.  What a blessing!

After the visitation and funeral on Tuesday, we headed back home.  It was about 8:00 before we made it home that night.  All of the time spent in the car allowed me plenty of time to work on Leslie and Teddy's baby blanket.  I got it finished last night.  I still need to press it before giving it to them...hopefully tomorrow.  I'm planning to go with Sheila to Henrietta Creek for services.  I always enjoy my visits over there!

I had court one day this week, plus a couple of CASA visits.  I also had another court report to do and turn in.  It seems like my court dates all fall close together, so that when one report is due, another one or two follow directly afterward!  Two of my cases should be drawing to a close by the end of September (I HOPE!).  We are just waiting on paperwork to be approved before adoption or PMC is granted.  The process takes much longer than it feels like it should, but I've learned that nothing happens in a timely manner in these cases.

Dennis left last night, along with Kyle and Parker, to go to Spur for the weekend.  He is taking Bobbie's new dishwasher out there to install for them, as well as work on stands and feeders.  They may even kill a hog, if the opportunity presents itself!  If time permits, Daddy and Bobbie are also wanting him to cut a hole in the wall of their bedroom and install a new a/c.  I really doubt they will have time for that this trip though.  Since he will be gone all weekend, Sheila and I are having a girls' weekend.  She came over last night, and we talked until midnight!  She has a CASA visit this morning, but we plan to spend the afternoon in FW.  She knows of a Vietnamese restaurant that she wants me to try out.  She is learning all she can about the cuisine and culture of that country.  We hope to learn to cook some of the most common dishes.

We made a quick trip to see Bobbie yesterday.  She is doing much better!  She was sitting in her wheelchair playing dominoes with Daddy when we arrived.  She is now is a "double" room, so that Daddy can stay all night with her.  She says that she is having very little pain (except for when doing therapy). 

We have enjoyed the rain and cooler temperatures this week!  The rain has also interfered with Dennis' work, but we did need it!  He moves his table saw outside onto the driveway to cut boards, so he has to stop working when it starts the slightest sprinkle.  He also can't go buy more lumber when it is raining, and he has run out of drawer making material.  Hoping for a few days of sunshine this next week...but also hope the cooler weather hangs around!

In spite of all the other things going on this week, Dennis still managed to make some progress in my kitchen.  He got the drawers to the left and right of my stove installed, which is a HUGE help!  He also started the facing on the final base cabinet, where my silverware drawer and drawers for casserole dishes will be.  It is so exciting to see how everything is going to look and to actually be able to store my things away in a handy and organized manner!  Here are some pics from this week:

I love having clutter-free counter space...and drawers!

This is my mini-pantry that holds all of the ingredients that I use on a daily basis...SO handy!

This is my miscellaneous drawer:  holds my measuring cups and spoons, hot pads and "junk".

My favorite drawer, so far.  It holds ALL my utensils in a neat, organized manner!

Hopefully this section will be filled in by the end of next week!



Bittersweet weekend

Well, what started out as a great weekend with my kiddos and grandbaby ended up on a tragic note.  Stephen and Mandy made it to town Friday afternoon.  It was so wonderful to get to hold Jesse and play with him!  He is such a sweet little (or not so little!) guy...such a happy personality.  I just couldn't get enough of him!  Saturday, we went to the benefit garage sale at the bank for a little while.  Jesse was a perfect little gentleman.  Then we did some shopping for baby clothes at the outlet store, and he slept right through it.  The girls came over a little later, and we spread a quilt in the yard.  Jesse loved being outside!  It was a nice, peaceful afternoon...until we got the news about Dee.  Such a horrible tragedy!  Stephen and Mandy had planned to leave after lunch on Sunday, but decided to drive back to Sherman early that morning so they could see the family.  My heart aches for the grief that they are feeling.  Monica losing her husband before his time.  Doyle and Dean losing their only son.  Meghann, Emily and DeLynn losing their dear dad.  I pray that God will strengthen and comfort this family during their extreme sorrow.

We also learned Saturday that our dear Brother Gene had to have emergency surgery for a perforated colon.  I know that was scary for his family!  Thankfully, the surgery went well.  I pray that he will have a speedy recovery and feel much better soon.

Seven years ago today was when Toby was killed in a car accident.  I vividly remember that day!  Kay called us because he was being life-flighted to Dallas and she wanted someone there as quickly as possible.  Stephen was here that day, so he and I headed over there as quickly as possible.  There were already several people there when we arrived, with many more arriving as the evening progressed.  My heart aches for the continued feelings of grief and loss that Kay and Leslie...as well as many others...share.

We are transportation-challenged again.  Ricky wrecked his Mustang Saturday night.  The wrecker thinks it will be totaled.  Ricky's neck was giving him fits yesterday morning, so I took him to the ER.  CT scan showed no damage, so they just prescribed muscle relaxers and pain meds.  His bronchitis was worse after nearly a week of antibiotics, so they also provided a new prescription for a stronger one.  He had a pretty rough day yesterday but seemed to be feeling quite a bit better this morning when I took him to work.

All in all, I am thankful for the health and well-being of my family.  Ricky could have been seriously injured, or worse.  My heart goes out to the Westbrook family.  My prayers go up for Bro. Gene and his family.  And my continued love and prayers go up for Kay and Leslie's family.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4  Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; [4] Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

Travels and Rain

We enjoyed our trip to Paris last week.  I usually DO NOT like to discuss financial stuff, but it was fun to watch Stephen and Dennis in action.  (I don't mean to sound like I'm bragging, but Stephen is quite good at his chosen profession.  He sure didn't get it from me, tho!)   I understood the basics of what they discussed, but much of it was way over my head.  It was good to see Stephen and Mandy’s house and Stephen’s new office for the first time.  (Yes, it has been a LONG time since we were last there.) 

We had a bit of excitement coming home.  We could tell on the trip up that we had a problem with one of the truck tires.  (We took the truck to bring home some furniture for Sheila.)  As we headed west on Wednesday afternoon, it continued to get worse.  We had decided we needed to stop in Bonham to look things over real well before progressing on towards home.  (Dennis had looked over the tires in Paris and couldn’t see a problem.)  Well…we didn’t make it!  All of a sudden, BOOM!  The truck was going ALL over the road with Dennis trying to hold on and get control.  I thought for sure that we were either going to roll or run into something.  Thankfully, God was watching over us and we were able to safely maneuver to the shoulder!  The rear tire on the driver’s side was stripped of tread and had beaten up the fender and scratched the side of the truck.  Dennis changed the tire and then we motored on home with no further problems.  (Sheila’s dresser got bunged up a bit, too, where the restraining strap dug into it.)

Saturday morning , Layne and Heather threw a graduation/going away party for Rebecca.  There was a good turnout, lots of goodies, and perfect weather.  Later that evening, several groups went to the Ranger’s game.  It would have been nice if they all could have sat together, but I think all had a good time. 

We were all saddened by the passing of Donna Rue last week.  This was such a loss for Diane… especially so soon after the death of their dad.  There was a very good turnout for the visitation Monday night.  It was nice to see so many dear friends show up to support Diane.  Ken did an outstanding job at the funeral Tuesday morning!  Mary F. rode with me, which made the drive much more pleasant.  We weren’t able to go to the cemetery, as I had an appointment in Weatherford at noon.

We were blessed with 6” of rain last week!  It rained all night on Tuesday, while we were gone.  Then there came a big storm early Friday morning…lots of thunder and lightning.   I can usually sleep through storms, but not that one.  I love lying in bed and listening to the rain and thunder though.  It is a very peaceful sound to me.  Our grass loved it, too!

Guess that’s about all for now.  Take care and God bless!

Pr 30:5 Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.

Do you know someone who is hurting?

Something has been on my mind for a long time, and I finally decided I needed to share it.  I saw an article on facebook today that spurred me on.  It was a story of a young woman whose husband was killed while she was pregnant with their first child.  She had to move back in with her mother and thought she was going to lose everything she owned.  The kindness of strangers proved her wrong.  She received an anonymous gift of $500, plus her husband's boss dropped by with a final paycheck, a bonus plus death benefits that her husband didn't technically qualify for.

How often do we hear, or say ourselves to someone, "If you need anything, just let me know!"?  Let me let you in on a little secret.  Usually the people who are hurting the most are NOT going to ask for help.  If they are struggling with chronic health problems, or grief, or depression, or financial hardship...they are probably in too much pain or feeling too low about themselves to reach out.  THEY need others to reach out to them!

I remember after my miscarriages, when I was really depressed, the feeling that nobody cared.  No one ever said anything to me about it or dropped by to talk or listen.  I was talking to Dennis about it one day, and he told me about all the people who had approached him about how I was doing...and if they could do anything to help.  But I didn't know that because they never approached me.

Folks, if you know someone who is hurting badly...reach out to them!  Drop in for a visit, ask them over for an evening, ask them to accompany you to some kind of activity...ANYTHING.  Don't wait for them to ask you for help.  If you know they can't pay their bills and you have more than you need, drop them a check in the mail.  Don't ask their family what you can do...they are probably struggling enough to try to figure out what THEY can do.  Reach out to them and BE THEIR FRIEND!  There is little in this world that feels worse than feeling like you are floundering to keep your head above water, and no one is there to reach out their hand.  So please, please, reach out your hand!

Mt 25:34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38  When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39  Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

1Jo 3:16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17 But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? 18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.

A Time to Mourn

 

I hardly know where to begin!  Monday was pretty routine.  I attended Bro. Bass' funeral Tuesday morning and then drove straight to the CPS office in Weatherford to observe a visit.  Barely had time to do much around the house before starting on supper.  The roofer was scheduled to begin on Wednesday.  I was awaiting his arrival before heading out for my walk, when Dennis called.  His mother was in very bad shape and they were calling in the family.  I hurriedly took care of making phone calls to free up my week, got cleaned up, and threw enough clothes in a suitcase to last the remainder of the week.  Dennis came in during that time and we left for Arkansas around 9:30.  We were in constant communication with Belinda and/or Warren...getting the latest on Maxine.  Ricky and Sheila were about an hour behind us.  We got the word at 1:26 that she had passed away.  Dennis was really hoping we could make it to the hospital in time, but it just wasn't to be.  The kids turned back around and went home until we could make arrangements for the funeral.  We finally arrived in Benton about 4:30.

The next couple of days were spent making funeral arrangements, going through drawers and files trying to round up all of the necessary paperwork, and beginning the process of cleaning out the house.  (Plus we had to deal with a carpenter ant infestation in our roof, by phone, that the roofer discovered in our absence.)  The visitation was Friday night, and the funeral was Saturday morning with a second service at the graveside in Fouke.  We were all very grateful for the attendance of everyone, as well as the food provided and all the phone calls and messages and flowers!  Maxine was a wonderful Christian woman who was loved by so many.  She will be greatly missed.

After a LONG day of funeral services and driving, we finally made it home about 10:30 or so last night.  As we were unloading and bringing things in, we noticed the house was unusually warm.  Dennis started investigating and discovered that while we were gone, lightening had struck our A/C unit and burned out a wire.  Thankful that was all the damage done!  He replaced the wire and we were finally able to go to bed around midnight.

The roofers finished up today while we were at the morning assembly.  We were really blessed to have found such a reliable and accommodating guy to do the job!  He carried on in our absence and referred us to a good pest control company when the need arose.  Our neighbor kept a wary eye on him and reported that he was impressed by his professionalism and quality work! 

Been trying to catch up on laundry and organizing between and after services today.  I inherited Maxine's phone, so I've been trying to get all of my contacts entered.  We also brought home a dresser and couch, which we moved in today.  I will try to get everything moved and organized and tidied up tomorrow.  Dennis is taking the day off so that we can attend to some unfinished business.  Then, hopefully, we will get back into a "normal" routine.  It has been weeks since we've had anything that resembled "normal"!

Guess it is time to turn in for the night.  I hope that each of you has a good week and no unpleasant surprises!

In honor of my mother-in-law:  1Ti 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;  10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

Blue Norther!

Looks like we skipped fall and are heading straight into winter!  Bring it on...I'm ready for jackets and hot drinks!

Last week was pretty full.  I picked up pecans on Monday.  After cracking and shelling them, we ended up with a gallon of nutmeats...means lots of goodies!  (Ricky keeps saying, "Pie!")  Along with cracking pecans, Tuesday I had to go to Stephenville to observe a visit, and then we butchered deer after supper.  Thursday I drove to Benton for Reba Kelley's funeral.  Got home Friday just in time to meet up with Dennis and the kids for supper at Pastafina.  Saturday, James and Renee invited everyone over to their house for a party.  It was to celebrate Alan White's return to health.  The cake James ordered read, "...we're glad you are alive and well!"  That became the catchphrase for the evening.  (Actually it was shortened to A & W...alive and well, or Alan White...take your pick!)

Emily Westbrook came down and spent Saturday night with Rebecca, so we had all the kids over Sunday afternoon.  We had our first deer steaks of the season...yummy!  This will be the last time Chris will be around for awhile...he's heading home for the holidays this weekend and will be working in Arkansas for the foreseeable future.  We are sure going to miss him!

Last night we all went out to Rosa's to celebrate Linda Moore's birthday.  Good times! 

A couple of prayer requests:  Brother Jim Fox is back in the hospital and struggling to keep his leg.  It has been a constant battle since he developed blood clots a couple of months ago.  The doctors are supposed to be deciding today what course of action to take.  I think Jim is in a better place, emotionally, now than when the issue first arose.  However this is really difficult for he and his sweet wife, Mary.

Also, Gary Bell had back surgery last week and is currently in rehab.  He has been in excruciating pain from back spasms since the surgery.  (He had been in pain for years prior to that!)  Please pray that he will have relief from the pain and that he will heal quickly.

Got another busy week this week...court, one day; possible surgery for Jim; doing a cake for the girls' bank for Friday; helping Ricky with a benefit garage sale for Saturday; and possibly helping with a CASA even on Saturday...along with the usual.  So I guess I'd better get off here and get busy!  Hope your week goes well...enjoy the cold!

 Job 37:9 Out of the south cometh the whirlwind: and cold out of the north.

Back to the real world

Well, vacation is over and Dennis has gone back to work.  It was a great two weeks!  I loved our trip out west and the special time we shared.  I always love the week of Thanksgiving...all the special food preparation and time with friends and family.  I love our family traditions on Thanksgiving, and I love it that my kids feel the same.  Even tho I always like to try out new recipes, there are some things that must not change:  turkey, Maxine's recipe for dressing and candied sweet potatoes, homemade rolls, having deviled eggs and olives on the table, and ALWAYS having pie and homemade candy for dessert (especially pecan and pumpkin - or sweet potato - pie!).  A game of train after dinner is a must...this year made extra lively by the addition of Sherrod!  Then the day always has to end with a viewing of "It's a Wonderful Life."  It does my heart good to watch this beautiful story each year and see the tears being wiped from the eyes of my loved ones...as I wipe my own.

Dennis and I did a VERY laid-back version of Black Friday.  We slept in, breakfasted at What-a-Burger, and then hit WalMart around 9:00 a.m.  So we miss some bargains, but we enjoy a relaxed shopping experience and still find a few good deals. 

We enjoyed another wonderful Lord's Day yesterday.  Mike gave an excellent lesson about not compromising our Christianity.  It was one of those assemblies where everything seemed almost choreographed.  The first song fell right in line with the opening prayer.  The song after the main prayer followed the closing thoughts of the prayer that proceeded it.  I love how the Lord works on the hearts of those leading the assembly! 

We were saddened yesterday to learn of the passing of Brother Emmett Terry.  Our families have been friends for about 45 years.  He was a gentle man with a big heart and will be greatly missed!

Brother Jim Fox is back in the hospital.  He was taken by ambulance on Wednesday...having difficulty breathing.  Turns out that even while on a hefty dose of Coumadin, he had a blood clot break loose and travel to his lungs.  He is feeling much better now!  This morning they are inserting a filter into his veins to keep any clots from going to his heart or lungs.  Hopefully he will be back in rehab in a couple of days and home soon after.  It was good to see him looking good and laughing and smiling last night.  Please continue to keep him and his dear wife, Mary, in your prayers.

Well, I guess I'd better get to my day...back to my "normal" schedule.  I hope all of you had a pleasant time with family and friends over the Thanksgiving weekend and have a good week to come!

Ps 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. 5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

New "job" and a funeral

Update on Debbie:  I told how she decided to quit her job in Granbury and try to relocate here in MW.  She started her new job Monday, working for Solaris Hospice.  She will be working Mon. - Fri., having better benefits and making more money than in her previous position.  I'm so happy for everything working out so well for them.  Until she is able to sell her house, she will be living with Anita.  I'm keeping her son, Caidem, while she works.  Talk about a life adjustment!  I haven't been responsible for caring for a child in MANY years.  I'm having to learn to readjust my daily routine and find activities to keep a 9 year old boy busy!  I see many hours spent playing Parcheesi and going to to library in store for the summer.
Our dear sister, Joyce Phillips Williams, passed away Saturday night.  She was one of the reasons we decided to move to the Highway congregation.  She was such a loving, hospitable woman...making everyone feel so appreciated.  Her health had started declining by the time we moved here and she has suffered from Alzheimers for a number of years.  It has been a long time since she has been able to attend the assemblies.  Such a sweet spirit that was an inspiration to all who knew her!  Her funeral was yesterday morn, and then we served dinner to the family.  It was the first time Caidem had ever been to a funeral.  The Highway congregation + a few others did the singing and he sat with us and was a perfect little gentleman.  I know it was a long, boring day for him, but he held up really well.

Sheila was "sworn in" with CASA last Thursday and already has a case.  Her's is a brand new case, so she will be getting a lot more experience than I have so far.  My case is drawing near to an end, but it has been good experience and a good way to ease into the job.  I have submitted my first court report which went well.  I will make my first court appearance next week.

Hoping that your summer is going well!

Ro 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

"I'll Fly Away"

What a week!  It all started late Tuesday morning when Sheila called to see if I could go to FW with her.  She had a recall notice on her car and was able to schedule an appointment to get it fixed at 2:00.  We grabbed a quick lunch and drove to the Honda dealership on the west side of FW.  While they worked on the car, we did a little shopping.  It worked out perfect.  They called to tell her it was ready just as we were finishing up at Mardels!  I made it home just in time to throw together some supper for the four of us.  After supper, the girls and I worked on their costumes:  a "spelling bee" for Sheila and an owl for Jessica.

I spent all day Wednesday cooking up jerky.  Then James came over so he and Dennis could study with a couple that have been attending services with us for several months.  That night, just as we were about to go to bed, we got a call telling us that they had CareFlighted Dee Jordan to FW after a massive heart attack.  We were awakened the next morning to a phone call letting us know that she has passed away.  Such a shock!  Her Alzheimer's had been worsening, but no one expected her heart to give out like that.  It was a blessing that she died so peacefully, but poor, dear Winston is absolutely heartbroken!  Thursday was a whirlwind of phone calls, cooking and visiting...then crashing that night.  Friday morning, I started preparing for the kids coming in for the weekend and funeral.  Anita had had a rough day on Thursday, so I invited her over for lunch and visit Friday afternoon.  Their family has really been going through a hard time lately and the stress is really working on her.  (They just took her mom back to the hospital this afternoon.  Her diverticulitis has her where she can't keep anything in her stomach.  She keeps getting dehydrated and losing weight.  Please keep her in your prayers!)

Stephen and Mandy got here just in time for supper Friday night.  They had a wonderful trip to NH and Maine.  Ricky came in Saturday night...just in time for supper!  It was great having my kiddos all home.  It is a rare occurrence these days, so I treasure every minute!

Thiess had asked Dennis to speak at Eastside Sunday morning, so Dennis asked Stephen to fill in.  It was good to see everyone there, and Stephen gave a very good lesson on "hospitality."  Ricky wanted to spend more time visiting with our Highway family, so he attended there that morning.  Evening services were cancelled for the family visitation for the Jordan family Sunday afternoon.  Stephen and Mandy left after visitation, while a big group of us went for our usual Sunday night dinner at Rosa's.

We awakened this morning to a gray world...pretty fitting for how we were all feeling as we went to Dee's funeral.  The fog was so dense, it was scary to get out on the highway...visibility was extremely low!  Everyone made it safely, however, and we all said our goodbyes to a dearly loved lady.  Ricky headed back towards Arkansas right after the service.  We set out dinner for the family afterwards.  I finally headed home around 2:00.  An exhausting weekend, both emotionally and physically!  So thankful for my family and my church family though.

Today's verses are in memory of Dee...she was one of the most hospitable ladies I've ever known:
Ro 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;  11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; 12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; 13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

Life goes on

So much has happened since this time last week!  As most, if not all of you know, my Uncle Buddy passed away last Tuesday...on Ricky's birthday.  Our two families are strangely interconnected in death.  My mom passed away on the same day that Anita (Buddy's daughter) received her confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer.  Therefore she will always remember the day Momma died, and I will always remember the day Uncle Buddy died.  (She probably would anyway, but her memory is MUCH better than mine)

The remainder of the week was pretty much focused on the family and the funeral preparations.  His funeral was Saturday morning, with a lunch for the family immediately following.  It was beginning to look like we wouldn't be able to find a suitable location for the dinner...trying to find a facility on a Saturday in the summertime around here is almost impossible.  The family finally located a room at one of the local motels that was available.  We were a little panicky when we saw how small it was (it would only seat around 60 people...which was about how many family were expected).  But everything worked out fine.  The funeral had a huge turnout...standing room only!  Most of the people left before going to the cemetery.  I'm sure the heat discouraged most people.  We got to the room at 11:30, got everything set up, got everyone fed after they returned from the cemetery, got everything cleaned up and were out of there at 2 minutes before 2:00, which was our "checkout" time.  We were sweating it (in more ways than one)!  I think everyone headed home and threw off their sweaty clothes and got comfortable as soon as possible.  At least I know I did!  I know the family will have some difficult time ahead of them, dealing with their grief and missing Buddy.  However, I think everyone is relieved for his sake that his suffering has finally come to an end.  I don't know if I've ever seen anyone as ready to go as he was.  So nice to know that he is at peace now!

We had a wonderful Lord's Day yesterday.  Our crowd was small due to several attending Eastside to be with Frieda, plus others were gone on vacation.  But the assembly was great!  The girls came over for lunch and then the four of us napped all afternoon.  Back to an even smaller assembly that evening, but it was a good group!  Afterwards most of us went to eat together at McAlister's Deli and visited until almost 9:00.  Layne and Heather noticed a woman sitting alongside the road as we arrived at the restaurant, so they went out to check on her situation.  She had no place to stay the night and no money, so Layne took her down to the Super 8 and got her a room.  She was needing a ride to Dallas today, so Charles, Linda and Heather were going to see about taking her.  We spent a good portion of our visit discussing ways to help others in the community.  I'm so thankful that we have such good-hearted people that are concerned with helping those around them!

I heard from Bobbie this morning.  They took Daddy to the hand specialist in FW and everything looked fine.  Daddy's wrist was set properly, so they put him in a cast and told him to come back in a couple of weeks.  He is having very little pain associated with his break.  He took a pain pill on Thursday (the day he broke it) but hasn't had one since.  So very thankful for that!

I hope that everyone's week goes well and no one suffers any ill effects from the heat.  Please keep the Putman family in your prayers.  The reality of losing Buddy will be hitting them now that life is "getting back to normal". 

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

weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning

So much on my mind this week.  Brandon's death was such a terrible shock to us all.  My heart aches for his family and close friends.  I hated having to tell Ricky...I knew he would take it very hard!  We are still waiting to hear when the funeral will be.  Ricky and Josh drove down to Stephen's that first night (was it just the night before last?!) so they could be here for it.  It started to look like the funeral probably wouldn't be until next week, so they headed home last night.

I was too melancholy yesterday to do much of anything...just felt tired and unmotivated (which is typical for me when I'm upset).  Dennis was off, so he and Thiess were able to get our a/c up and running again.  Then he mowed the grass that afternoon.  He accomplished a LOT more than I did.  I bought groceries, went to the library and did a little laundry.  We also went to pick up my mother's day gift from the kids...a chest of drawers for the guest room.  Sheila bought it at a local "junktique" store downtown.  We got it moved into the guest room and I cleaned it up and oiled the drawers.  I'm using it to store bed linens and blankets.  I love it!

Look at the beautiful wood in these drawers!

I selected a library book to read yesterday afternoon:  The Goodbye Quilt.  I knew it was a "dangerous" choice, but sometimes having a good cry from reading is quite cleansing.  It is the story of a mother who is trying to finish a quilt for her daughter while they travel cross-country to take the daughter to college.  I could really identify with the main character's ambiguous feelings concerning her looming empty nest.  I really enjoyed the book, and I did feel better when I finished it.  I had been teary eyed for the past 24 hours, but I needed that good cleansing sobbing!  I also needed the reminder that it isn't my job anymore to pick up after or fix my kids mistakes.  I'm still here to help them, encourage them, and support them.  But they are adults now who should, and can, make their own decisions and reap the consequences...whether good or bad.  That seems to be such a difficult thing to internalize as a mother...at least for me.  You spend practically all of your adult life focusing on caring for your children...taking care of all of their needs...training them and disciplining them.  Then you have to step back and let them go.  Such a difficult transition!  Not only the letting go, but also having to re-find yourself after so many years.  As the book stated so eloquently you don't go back to who you were or what your relationship with your husband was before kids.  You are a different person now, and your marriage is different now.  You have to redefine your life and what it is to become at this new stage...very thought provoking.  (So much for my book review.....)
Well, I need to climb on my treadmill!  Happy Mothers' Day to all of you mothers out there!  I'm looking forward to spending it with 3 of my 5.
Lu 2:51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

A Time to every purpose under the heaven...

We had a nice, but quiet, weekend.  Jessica had gone to Arkansas to be with her family.  Stephen and Mandy were spending the Christmas weekend with the Gaddys.  Ricky spent Friday night and Saturday with a friend's family...coming home only long enough to share our shrimp and crab boil.  Sheila spent Friday night with us.  We decided to do a TV marathon, so we rented a full season of "House" and started after supper dishes were done.  Saturday morn, we woke up and fixed pancakes for breakfast.  Dennis had gone hunting and got home just as we were finishing up (yes, we saved him some!).  I spent the rest of the morning working on our seafood feast:  shrimp, crab legs, corn on the cob, potatoes, sourdough baguette and key lime pie for dessert...happy bellies!  Dennis joined us in a few games of Bananagrams, where the wins were pretty well distributed among the three of us.  Then we spent the rest of the day on our marathon.

We had quite a few visitors at Highway Sunday:  Joe and Leanne's family and several of Jamie's family.  Jared P. was our guest speaker and did a really good job.  After evening services, we had a group of 20 go to Rosa's for more fellowship and food.  Good day!

Monday, I bought groceries, did laundry and ironing, and baked banana bread and kolaches.  (I like to keep kolaches in the freezer to warm up for breakfast.)  Been doing some cleaning and organizing yesterday and today, but not getting too enthusiastic about it.  The girls are coming over tomorrow for supper and our gift exchange.  Then they are having us and a few friends over Friday night for New Years Eve.  I usually have the party here, but this way Dennis can come home and go to bed if he wants.  He isn't much of a late night person.  The past couple of years, we've been in bed before midnight...all of our guests left early.  The girls and I are determined to make it all the way until the new year this time!

So sad about Koh and Michele's baby.  I kept hoping and praying that the doctors would be wrong.  My heart breaks for what they must be feeling.  On a happier note, Whitney, from our congregation, gave birth to healthy twin boys yesterday.  She is a very small lady and was pretty miserable during the last month or so of her pregnancy.  We are all excited and happy for her new blessings.

I hope that everyone has a safe and happy New Year!

Ec 3:1-8  To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;  A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;  A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;  A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

Doctor appointments and funerals

So much on my mind after the week.  My oldest cousin passed away last Sunday.  They had discovered that he had advanced cancer in his lungs and throat about 3-4 weeks ago.  His mother, my mother's oldest sister, lost her husband almost five years ago and now she has lost her oldest son.  I don't know if a mother is ever prepared for that.  He was a veteran, so they planned just a graveside service at the national cemetery in Arlington for Friday.  We planned a dinner for all the family for Thursday night.  I had booked the Cool Community Center, because they don't charge for using the facility for funeral related meals.  I was supposed to meet someone with the key at 5:30 that afternoon.  By 6:15, all the family was there, the food was all there, but no one with a key had arrived!  My cousin's son was able to find us another facility at the last minute, so we all changed location and quickly got things set up and started serving.  I had to leave at 7:00 to pick up Ricky and leave to go to Paris.  I was pretty frazzled by that time!  (It turned out that the lady with the key was running late and didn't have my phone number to call and let me know.)

Tuesday morning, we learned of Sue Avaritt's passing.  Such a loss!  Ricky and I drove up to Stephen and Mandy's Thursday night, and then the four of us drove to the funeral together.  I'm glad we arrived early, because there were many people left standing in the foyer.  Such an outpouring of love and support!  My heart goes out to all of the family for their loss, but especially to dear Kenneth.  Sue was the love of his life (after his love for the Lord) and he will be so lonesome without her!

Aside from the sadness of the occasion, I enjoyed mine and Ricky's trip.  He entertained me all the way to Stephen's house.  That boy can sure make me laugh!  I also enjoyed being able to spend the day with Stephen and Mandy.  After making it back to their house last night, we met up with Gary and Doris and Gray and Vicki for Mexican food.  I always enjoy our time spent with them!  The trip home was tough after that though.  Rick was exhausted and slept the rest of the way home, so I had to sing along with the radio for the next 3 hours to keep myself awake.  It was a struggle after having gotten up at 5:00 that morning.  We made it home at 11:30 with no mishaps, though.  I  was SO happy to crawl into my bed last night!.

Tuesday evening, we were invited to eat supper with the Browns.  That was a treat!  We always enjoy visiting with them and listening to Thiess' stories.  Gina always prepares a wonderful meal, too! 

I ended up back at the doctor on Wednesday.  My first treatment of antibiotics didn't clear up my urinary tract infection, so I'm on a second course of treatment.  I go back in two weeks to be retested to make sure it clears up this time.  If not, they will send me to a specialist in FW to see what is going on. 

James and Renee are having a cookout at their house tonight...using up the hamburger patties we had leftover from our meeting.  I look forward to a relaxing evening of fellowship and fun!  The weather is perfect for sitting around outside.

Rick has a few people from his work who are supposed to be attending Highway tomorrow with us.  They are wanting to come listen to him speak.  He is hoping that one family, in particular, will be interested enough to start studying with him.  The man used to attend the church when younger and has been wanting to start back.  The 13 year old daughter has also been wanting to start going to church.  Ricky has become pretty good friends with the family and is trying to be a positive influence towards them.  I hope that we can help lead them to the truth.

My verse for today is in memory of dear Sister Sue Avaritt:
Pr 31:10  Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. 11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. 12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.