A Lazy Christmas

We had a lazy Christmas. Due to Brother Nowling and Jessa having to work. Jessa got in at 3:30 am and Brother Nowling at 8:30 am. Jessa had to head back to work at 2 pm and Brother Nowling at 9 pm so we decided to have our Christmas dinner on Saturday. We opened gifts as soon as Brother Nowling changed into in his pj's (I know kind of reversed). This year I did what I haven't done for several years, the girls all got the same things just in different colors or styles, so I played Santa and passed out the gifts so they would be opening the same gifts at the same time. Though it's not the way I like to do things, it worked this year. They seemed to like everything they got. I got Brother Nowling a camera. He's always relied on the girls or me to take pictures. But he'll be headed to Colorado next month to be the evangelist for their men's retreat and he's going by himself. I was trying to figure out what to do about a camera for him when he actually ASKED for one. So I got him a Nikon, point and shoot as we keep calling it. He's funny with it as he learns to use it...which he is doing. Then I got an I Phone. He is so cute, as he is so proud of himself for pulling it off as I had no idea. AND he got a great deal. He knew one of the guys at AT&T as he works with through Alaska Airlines. Anyway through his AA discounts and some other strings they pulled, he actually got the phone for half price. I bought an I Touch a while back with a bonus check from work. I was kicking myself for not just waiting for the I phone to come out and he kind of uses my I Touch more than I so...he did good. He's so proud as he did my birthday and Christmas by himself. Any way after gifts Brother Nowling, Joleesa and Jessa went to bed. Jenna and I watched movies, and played on the computer. Joleesa got up and fixed baked ziti for supper and that was our Christmas. Saturday we had brisket and though it cooked all day, it wasn't the best brisket but I think it was the meat itself and it could've been my frustration that Joleesa went into work at McDonald's because they were short so we still weren't all together. All in all it was still good.

Today's SS and service was really good. Lately I've been thinking a lot of how easily people give up on God. I heard on Dr. Dobson that Christians go into marriage thinking it's for life. And though they don't always "feel" in love, they know they still love each other and when things get tough they just hang in there and watch their love grow deep. Well we're in this relationship with Christ for life (more ways then one). When the going gets tough and we're not "feeling" God we have to know He's still there and our relationship with Him is growing stronger through each trial. We can't just "give up". Well today's lesson on "watching" for Him brought so many thoughts along that way. We don't know when He's coming and I'm one that hates to wait...but I have to live like it's today. And when it talked about temptations...we may not be tempted to do drugs, smoke, drink, etc, but our temptation may be to be discouraged, frustrated, disappointed, etc so much so that it becomes the enemy's snare to get us to give up. Watching is two fold here, watching that enemy doesn't lure us away AND watching for His return and making sure every second of every day we are ready.

Then Brother Nowling preached on sorrow turning to joy...he referred to the song "Give Them All". It was really an encouraging message after a time of worship.

I have determined no matter what anyone else does, I'm going to worship, I'm going to glean from the time we are to be learning of Him. I get so frustrated to the rudeness and disrespect some individuals have texting, writing notes, playing games on their phones, being on their "little" computers, whispering, etc. I tell you the day of judgement is coming and I don't want to lose out on any opportunity and I only wish those that do this would recognize that recompense is hard thing. BUT no matter what I want to reap all that I can from Him to help me to make it to the end. There are days my mind wonders and I find myself fighting a physical battle reining it in...but I don't want to be found guilty of purposely missing something OR of being a distraction to someone else.

Wow. I've really strayed from my subject line...sorry. I think I'll go take a little nap.

TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY IN BLOGLAND

Snowzilla

With all the talk and pictures of snow storms in blogland I thought you would all enjoy hearing about Snowzilla. This has been a huge story across the U.S. ADN.com's Snowzilla stories on 12/22 got 1.2 million page views...more than Palin's stories. Here's the pictures. The first picture is the original Snowzilla (16' tall) and then the city knocked her down because it broke city ordinance...during the night it got rebuilt at 25' tall, and no one is owning up to it. The story made Yahoo's home page on Monday (thus the pageviews to adn.com). To follow the story and look at more pictures go to http://www.adn.com/. The hat is a collapsible laundry basket, the pipe a manila envelope...you'll find the details and more pictures at adn.com. It's quite the story.

A Good But Busy Weekend

Well another weekend has passed and what a busy one it was. Friday night Brother Nowling and I headed to the party craft store to find stuff to decorate the tables for our Christmas dinner that we put on for the church on Sunday. Then off to grocery shop and then pick Zay and Nathan up from the airport. It's always fun to have them come. We stayed up late of course on Friday night but I determined that I wasn't going to sleep the day away on Saturday but I wasn't about to set my alarm. I actually woke up at 9 am. I made sausage and pancakes while Brother Nowling was being goofy and got Zay motivated with a cup of snow applied to his head (isn't he mean). Nathan was already up. Then the kids headed out to do things while we finished our Christmas shopping.

Saturday night was our youth night at Sister Heather's. We walked in her door and oh it smelled so good of her Carmel popcorn balls. We watched Pilgrim Progress (if you haven't got the DVD it's worth it). Then headed back to the house. I put the boys peeling potatoes while they were watching TV while I made the jello and the cherry delight pies for the Sunday dinner. Plus I finished the bulletins. Another late night.

Then we had a good SS and service. The boys helped out setting up tables, moving the piano by to the back of the room by the Christmas tree and then back home to get the dinner all together. They all took off for a couple of hours to go sledding while we finished things. Brother Nowling was awesome, right there helping me however I needed him. I was panicking early on trying to figure how I would get everything to the church and keep it hot. Potatoes were my biggest concern. One of the gals at work suggested I borrow her rice cooker. We both forgot about it during the week, and even though she lives in Eagle River, she made it a point to come to town and drop it and a crock pot off for me. Isn't it something how God uses those in our lives in the least expected way. So my cherry delight, and my tropical fusion jello (Larry's mom thought I called it confusion Jello and it was quite fitting as you tried to figure out the flavor~tee hee), mashed potatoes, brown gravy, green beans, ham, buns, punch (with sorbet as Zay can't have dairy), pickles, black and green olives and the meal was complete. Everything ready by 4:45 pm (was to start at 5 pm). There were some that came in late ~ here it I am the one doing all the work and was on time. Everyone knew the time it started, but what is it with some always having to be late (not counting those that worked). We went ahead and started at 5 pm. The rice cooker worked perfect for my potatoes (I want one) as they were still steaming when we went to clean up AND they were moist. How cool is that. I'm not sure what everyone else thought, but as tired as I was, I so loved being able to give in this way. We had 15; with only 5 missing, Jessa (who was working the horrible crowds at the airport), Jeremy Adams and Don Texter, Jr both working and then Micah and Megan were in TN. All in all I was very pleased.I am so thankful for Zay, Nathan, Jacob , and Joleesa's help and of course my husband ~ although it was his idea.

But the best part of the night was the time following. I had the piano moved by the Christmas tree because I wanted to have the ambiance of an old fashion, family Christmas around the piano and tree. We sang caroles (I have really enjoyed the caroles this year and we started singing them as soon as Thanksgiving was over ~ grin) and then Jenna shared scriptures from Luke on Mary's Manificant. I then shared a tradition we had with my extended family when all the nieces and nephews were little, we had a Christmas story. There are so many touching story books out there. A couple of years ago I bought "Mary's Treasure Box" and I had Joleesa read it. She is so like her dad as she pretended everyone were kids ~ grin. With her goofiness she was referring to pictures of donkeys as horses and after having been corrected with laughs, she then referred to a cow as a donkey. It was great. We sang some more caroles, had prayer (I am so kicking myself I forgot to take up the VLB offering ~ I had forgotten it was a service, it was family~smile) and then some had brought gifts, so those were distributed. Then it was clean up time and once again Zay and Nathan, Jenna and Joleesa were right in there helping clean up.

Tonight Jenna went to her apartment, Joleesa was sleeping, Jessa and the boys out with Matt, I took advantage of having time alone and wrapped gifts. I decided though to use gift boxes for as much as I could. Joleesa said she wanted me to at least wrap her gifts, but Joleesa dear, mom is too worn out. There are some wrapped gifts but mostly they're in gift boxes. It's actually pretty.

Now to leave you with some pictures of church dinner and oldf ashion Christmas around the tree.

Overwhelmed by our Winter Wonderland

It's a good overwhelm...I am awe when I look out at the beauty of winter this year. We have over a foot of snow. Some trees have layers of snow on them giving them a grandeur of white, but after the snow came cold and hoar (?) frost and I love it. The skies have had the alpine glow of pinks with clear blue skies around the cloud. Some times a fog adding to the perfection. Such beauty that I can't believe I'm experiencing it first hand not just looking at a picture. Jenna captured it when she did Jessa and Levi's engagement pictures. She hasn't gotten any of the hoar frost or the awesome skies. I don't ever have my camera with me.

This morning I went in to work late so that I could drive out to Girdwood with Jessa to look at the Girdwood Chapel. They want to get married in Girdwood as this has been one of Jessa's favorite places and Levi proposed to her there. The Lady of the Snow church would be nice but it's $1600 for the chapel for 4 hours on the wedding day and hour the night before rehearsal, AND the reception hall. Though it's nice and the nature surrounding it is awesome, $1600 is ridiculous to pay. So any way she called on this little chapel that would only be $150. 50 would be a crowd for it but they said it would work and that we could do the reception there too. Yeah, funny. It looked like a visitor's center from the outside. It was one room with 6 pews and then chairs. 50 would definitely be the limit. And to do the reception we could set the pews off along the walls and move the chairs out of the way to set up tables. The BEST part (I'm being sarcastic here) is there is no indoor plumbing. All they have is a porta-potty. Yeah, I don't think so. The scenery is awesome but that's it. So after having driven in the dark on the uncertain winter roads, we head back disappointed but under a gorgeous pink and blue sky surrounds by white covered mountains, and iced waters. It was an awesome drive back.

I get into work and my office doesn't have any windows but as I walk around to other parts of the building I don't know how many times I stop and just stand at the windows, commenting on the beauty to whoever will listen. It has been an absolute awesome winter wonderland. Hey Levi, all this beauty ALMOST makes me want to insist you have a winter wedding (not that it would work, and don't get any ideas, I did say almost).

ADN.com has a map where we can find Christmas lights to look at, so seeing as we don't have the Christmas parades that Sister Tammi gets to enjoy, or the acres of lights that Sister Becki Horne has seen, maybe we can take a drive to look at lights. Sister Grant's brother drives limos taking people around to look at the lights. That's something I would love to do.

Maybe I'll take my camera to work tomorrow to see if I can catch some of the beauty I see from our windows. With my luck tomorrow it will be a dreary day.

By the way for those of you who wonder how many hours of daylight we are getting, tomorrow were expected to get 5 hours and 28 minutes...yeah. At least they've been beautiful.

Can We Go Back to Friday Night?

It's been such a busy weekend. Brother Nowling and I went out for dinner Friday night. I was so craving halibut, though I would've loved to go to Sea Galley I knew it's just way too expensive and usually packed on Friday nights so we went to the Sourdough Mining Company. It too can be expensive but I knew that I could get the Motherlode which is a sampler of of halibut, chicken strips and potato skins for $12. It satisfied the craving. Then we went to find my dad's gift. With him being in the nursing home I wanted to find him an Alaska blanket. I've looked and though some had moose or bear on them, they could have been from anywhere and they anywhere from $70-$100 (more than I could spend). But we found it at "Once in a Blue Moose". It actually is a heavy throw that says Alaska, the last frontier and then has scenes of Alaska all over the blanket. It's perfect. Every year there's a "perfect" gift that I find for someone and this year it's my dad.

Then we went to Target and got a few things. Then Saturday morning we actually slept in until 9 am. I got up and fixed french toast and bacon, started laundry, we picked up the house, went to a coffee shop and got ourselves some coffee, visited our dear Sister Texter. From there we headed to the post office with the intent of getting my passport so I could go to England. Yeah right, at Christmas time. The lines were soooo long so I picked up the application and I'll fill it out and try to take it in soon. Then we headed to Walmart and Cosco. I dropped Brother Nowling off, headed to Michaels and then the grocery store. And before we knew it Saturday was gone.

Sunday, I got stew put in the oven, and we headed out to church. SS was great and Brother Nowling preached a really good message on the Ugliness of Christmas...the sin of the world that made it necessary for Christ to come. It was really thought provoking. Tonight is our Christmas program and then Brother Nowling will be preaching on "The Beauty of Christmas". It sounds like we'll have some visitors. We'll then be having refreshments afterwards.

So the weekend is flying by and I have so much to do. Brother Nowling wants us to put on a ham dinner for the Church next Sunday. I love the idea. It's our family thanking the church for their love and giving...but it's not going to be easy as there is no kitchen at the church. I have to transport everything. I don't want to do it just do it half way either. I want it to be perfect from the decorating to the food to the fellowship. Though I'm looking forward to it, I'm also stressing over it so please pray that I stay calm and that everything comes together.

Everyone have a great week.

CHRISTMAS JOY 100 FOLD!

If you have been to Jessa's blog you already know this but for those that haven't ... Levi Stephens proposed to Jessa today. Sunday night he asked Brother Nowling for his permission to marry his daughter. Though they had talked of it, set the date, started the wedding planning, he still wanted to be sure he had our approval. Brother Nowling kept telling him he needed to have his "last supper" as Brother Dupre called it. So finally Sunday night, while the youth were having their practice, we took Levi to Village Inn. Though there were serious moments, like when Brother Nowling told Levi, his main request was that Levi does his part in making sure she makes it to heaven and that he doesn't break her heart which was very precious ~It was kind of backwards because Levi hadn't asked him yet ~ giggle. I was trying to make it difficult for him but Brother Nowling wouldn't let me. We talked a little but we all knew the youth were going to be meeting up with us and time was getting away and he still hadn't asked. Then suddenly we see Josh and I told him "Levi just ask". He quickly says "can I marry your daughter." And Brother Nowling laughed and then said "yes, Levi, you have my blessing and permission." We knew they didn't need it but it was great that they still wanted it. He then wanted to do an official proposal so what better place than in the winter wonderland of Alyeska (go to Jessa's blog godcanIgohomenow.blogspot.com for the story and pictures).

We are so thrilled that God has brought these two precious young people together. God is already using them. Best of all is HE IS MOVING TO ALASKA. Though we know we won't have our daughters with us forever, the longer the better and we are so grateful that God has led them to each other and they will be here to work with us for Him.

Now the next neat thing is there wedding date...JUNE 13, 2009, Heritage Day. This means the weekend following camp. Though it'll make for a hectic week for me, we will be blessed with possibly visitors to Alaska camp and the next best thing is Sister Sharon Griffin will be our evangelist for camp AND she, Tim and Victoria will be staying for the wedding and she has agreed to be their pianist.

God has shown Jessa and Levi that faithfulness to Him will bring them their hearts desire. It is so good to see Jessa happy. He leaves out tomorrow and I'm not sure when they'll be able to see each other again, but God will sustain them and each conversation and moment they do have together will make that June 13th date even more special.

Great Birthday!

It has been a very busy last few days. My body is truly wearing down from the lack of sleep but it has been worth it. This is been one of the best birthday's I've had in many years. Not because of the gifts (I'll talk about them in a little bit), but because of family. These days it is very difficult to get the three girls and Jody and I together at the same time and I really wanted that for my birthday. I not only had them but Levi as well.

It started Friday night (even though my birthday wasn't until Saturday). I walk in the door and Brother Nowling points to my chair and tells me to try them on...he got me Alaska Airlines polo shirt, fleece sweatshirt and an awesome jacket (all with various Alaska Airlines logos on them). Now to let you know how special this alone was, for years the two of haven't bought birthday gifts for each other we just pick out something for ourselves, but he not only bought these for me, but he had to go to a lot of effort get it from AA their employee store is open very limited hours. I was trying to help Jessa get dinner on the table as she and Brother Nowling had band service at 7 pm. He is so wanting me to try these on, so I tried the jacket on first in a hurry and got the zipper stuck. He's trying to help me and it's not happening, Jessa calling for help in the kitchen so Joleesa comes and gets poor mom unstuck (is that a word?). Then I go get the macaroni and cheese in the oven and then try on the other two. They all fit perfect. Then Jenna walks in the door and she can't resist giving her gift as it was too big to wrap so she brings in two boxes taped together with beautiful touch lamps that have light houses on them. They are for our bedroom. I had eagle ones that got left behind in Wisconsin as I was confident they wouldn't make it one piece, so this is something I've really been wanting. Brother Nowling, Jessa and Levi head off to band service while I clean the kitchen and Jenna starts putting the tree together. Joleesa gets home and she heads down to the crawl space to bring up the decorations but the tubs are too big and heavy for her and to try to get up so she starts handing thing up to me one by one so we can get started on decorating. Jessa heads off to work (poor girl had to work 9:30 pm to 2:30 am) and when band service is over Brother Nowling and Levi head home to help us. The rest of the decorations are brought up, Brother Nowling chooses to put my lamps together and leave the decorating to us. Levi, Jenna and Joleesa do the tree with lots of laughs along the way, while I'm hanging the stockings and putting the other decorations around. Along the way Joleesa brings out her gift and says she wants to give it to me now and when I say let's wait until tomorrow she's telling I have to stay up until midnight then and sits it in middle of the room to see if I can resist the temptation. Throughout the night she keeps asking "you want to open it now don't you?" It was so cute and sweet of her. Finally when all the decorating was done and we were all sitting down, it was about 11:15 pm and I said I'm not staying up until midnight so I'll open it but no one had the energy to get out of their chairs to bring it to me. Finally when Brother Nowling walked in to the room they had him bring it to me and it was a beautiful sweater AND the reason she wanted me to open it; a Michael W. Smith Christmas CD. We always have Christmas music playing while decorating and she was wanting me to play that. I goofed on that one, but we still had a lot of fun. Then there's Jessa and Levi's gift. I knew they got it in VA as Levi called and said they'd got my gift and I was really going to like it. Then Jessa gets on the phone and says but it's gotta be a birthday and Christmas gift because of what it cost. So funny. Then we're headed to church Wednesday night and Levi asks me if I'm curious as to what they got me. There's a couple of things you've got know here; this is the first I've met Levi AND Jessa has missed my birthday on occasion in the past. Left at that, due to the youth activity in the evening I said I wanted us to go out for a birthday breakfast to Qwennies (an Alaskan Restaurant). Now Jessa had asked me when I wanted their gift and I told them to wait until breakfast, so seeing as everyone else had given me their gifts, before we headed out for breakfast I said why don't I just open it now so we don't have to carry it in and out...ah she forgot it at her apartment and needed to wrap it. So funny. As the day got busy I wound up not getting it until after the youth activity but you know what, it was worth the wait. It's a bell symphonium (music box with 16 discs; 8 Christmas and 8 classical). We saw a huge one in a KY gift shop years ago on our way to the assembly and then we've seen the small ones at Cracker Barrel in the past. I've even bought a CD of the music. So it was very cool, and Levi picked it out without having actually met me yet.

So why was all of this so special? I am one that when I buy cards or gifts I try very hard to think of the person and find something that is perfect for them. That's what my family did this year. From spending time with me, to the gifts. It was all very special!

We then had the youth at the church last night decorating the church tree. It's a very pretty tree that I was able to buy for $20 from one of the ladies at work that got laid off and is moving to CA. It's one of those tall skinny trees. I love it. But the night didn't start out too well. The stand was missing the two bolts that hold the tree up straight. We were having a dinner and someone forgot the drinks, and I forgot bowls, and we ran out of hooks for the ornaments so people were running to the store. But the good news was we had all but two of our youth there (Josh and Jeremy, we really missed you) and we had two visitors. While everyone was eating I shared a devotion on Mary and her emotions in having been chosen, the responsibility, the fears, etc that had to be a part of her in baring the Son of God. There was good participation and a lot of great reflection.

We came home, and I was already exhausted but the girls and Levi and I sat around visiting. I find it so hard to go to bed when we have company. I really want to get to know this young man who has become so very special to my daughter. So it was 1 am before I went to bed and I was so tired but I couldn't sleep. It was after 3 am before I finally fell asleep.

Then this morning I got up finished up the bulletins, put the makings for Swiss Steak in the oven and Brother Nowling, Levi and I headed out for church. Once again it was a great SS class. I love our young people and teaching SS. I love to bring it home and get them involved and I'm rarely disappointed. Then we went into a great worship of "Adoring Him" and then Levi preached a whirlwind message. What I mean by that is this is a young man that waste no time behind the altar. He hits the floor running with what God has given him. Jessa then followed it up with a special song (her at the piano and Micah on the guitar) during the altar call. God was present and it felt real good. God is going to use this couple in a great ways. I am so proud of them already.

Tonight we're having a singsperation and then the youth have their play practice while Brother Nowling and I get some time alone with Levi at Village Inn (oh yeah ~ smile)and the rest will meet up with us afterwards.

Hopefully tomorrow we'll get to play some games and I believe Levi leaves out on Wednesday.

Thank you all for the birthday wishes. And a special thanks to my family who made the day special and really made me feel special. It's been a great weekend that I don't want to end.

Treasures

Job refers to snow as "treasures". Well this weekend we received LOTS of treasures. It has been beautiful to look out on but treacherous to be out driving on. I still can't use to the fact that Alaska just doesn't do much plowing and NO salting and very little sanding. Yes, we're allowed to have studded tires, but when you have to plow through snow the studs aren't enough. We have had our fill of having to unbury our cars wherever we go as the snow has been like the energizer bunny, it just keeps coming and coming. I had to go grocery shopping and I didn't think I'd ever get the cart out to the car as I pushed, and shoved it through the snow. I was so afraid it was going to tip over and by the time I got to the car I was breathing so hard I felt like I had ran a mile.

So what happens when the snow stops? Below zero weather. I'd rather have more treasurers then the bitter cold. And if anyone tells me what do expect you live in Alaska, I'll, I'll, I don't know what I'll say or do ~smile. I've said it before, Alaska's weather (Anchorage any way) is not much different than Menomonie, WI. So I'm use to it, but it's a longer season here than in Wisconsin. Considering we got our fist snow in October, we're in for a lonnnnnnng winter. But with it comes so much beauty.



Have a good week everyone.

The Weekend Ahead

I had a good Thanksgiving. It started at 8 am. I made homemade cranberry compote (a first for me) using a recipe one of the ladies at work brought for our potluck, then added a little bit of my own creativity. It had granny smith apples, orange zest, orange juice (and I added chunks of oranges), golden raises, and chopped walnuts. It was tart and good. I set that in the fridge to chill and started on the dressing and stuffed the turkey (I use the turkey bags so I didn't need to start it just yet), I peeled potatoes, made my Waldorf salad, then put the turkey, and the squash in the oven. By this time Joleesa was up so we headed to Fred Meyer to pick up a couple of things that I needed and do a little shopping of course (in Wisconsin I did Kmart and they had gifts to the first 100 customers on Thanksgiving day-not here). I was surprised how busy it was. Jenna met up with us at Fred Meyer. Joleesa actually found some things to put on her bedroom wall. Here is my daughter, 19 years old and bare walls as she never bought anything for them and I had no idea what she would like. We're going with the theme "Live, Love, Laugh". We bought a variety of things that say that on it. So we'll be fixing her room up for Levi ~ you should feel special Levi ~ smile. Then back home and the girls set the table, made the punch and started dishing things as they were done and I continued the cooking. The day at first started out kind of lonely, thinking "I have 3 girls and not a one of them were in the kitchen with me". But in the end we put it all on the table at 3 pm just as was planned. I love it when I can make that happen and have everything hot. Our company arrived about 10 minutes late but no problem. We quickly overate, they then went to the living room and watched Wall-E while I cleaned up (Joleesa took a nap, Jenna and Jody helped out some) and the kitchen was put back in order. Then about an hour later we had some Boston cream pie that our company brought. Josh and Jackie showed up for the basketball game and quickly fixed plates of leftover (they were working). The four left for the game, our company left, Jody went to lay down, Jessa got off work, fixed left overs, I had some of the delicious pumpkin pie that Heather Adams made and brought us (it was so sweet of her), Jessa took off to spend the rest of the night on the phone with Levi while I had a relaxing evening watching The Ultimate Gift (a great movie that I saw last year, but didn't remember a lot of it). The girls got home from the game, Jessa and Jenna left for home, Jody for work, Joleesa to bed and eventually I went to bed as well.

A very different Thanksgiving then what I'm use to but yet a good. I am sooo thankful for my family.

Now I have a weekend of shopping and getting my hair done. Yippee!!! I love to shop and find those perfect gifts. No gift cards from me ~ smile (inside joke).

Happy Thanksgiving

Tomorrow is a day to look forward to. And I do, but for some reason I really am missing going to be with my brothers, sisters and dad that we have done several years. Though I've not been close to my family we always had Thanksgiving and Christmas to come together with some of them. Just knowing this year it's not even option (as it wasn't last year either) just is leaving a little longing. Then add to that the fact that Jody has to work tonight and tomorrow night so we're having a late dinner. And no matter what time we tried to have it Jessa can't be there because she works noon to 8 pm (or something like that) so any way it's going to be different which I should be used to by now. We did invite a couple of people to join us and then after we eat Joleesa and Jenna are going to go to the Alaska Shootout college basketball tournament. Jenna got two free tickets as did I so Jackie and Josh are going to join them and it's in the evening.

Life is full of changes. And as your family grows up the changes keep coming. Levi will be here for a visit for about 8 days. We'll be meeting what will probably be our first son-in-law. I'm looking forward to it.


Today I worked 12 hours. Our graphic design department is so short staffed and whenever there is a holiday the paper still has to get out. So I volunteered to step in and do whatever I could to help out. I couldn't believe how appreciative so many people were for my doing it. And though I was more than happy to help out, it was overtime for me. So that means money to put away for my England mission trip. It wasn't tough work so yes it was a long day. But it felt good to be helping, to be appreciated for helpingn AND for the extra money.

Well enough of my rambling. Everyone have a blessed Thanksgiving.

Please Pray

For the Dorn and Mitzi Thompson family. Dorn's sister passed away on Friday. They won't know until after the autopsy exactly what the cause of death was but she wasn't recently diagnosed with diabetes and was having a difficult time regulating her blood sugar. I remember Julie from when we were just young people ourselves. She is a just a few years younger than I am and I don't believe she ever married. Though she was raised in the church she was not saved, unless in her last minutes she called upon God. She met Connie Wilson during one of the times she was in Minnesota and stayed in touch with her, so Sister Connie is travelling up to do the funeral. This is very close extended family. This was so sudden it really has got to be difficult for them.

Oh for the Lord to bring some good out of this. Lord give Sister Connie the Words of Life and comfort for this family.

I'm Excited for Today!

Today I'm going the Arts and Craft Emporium. Yeah, not show it's an emporium. Don't ask me why they call it that except that it's a little classier and it's going to be in our new, beautiful Deni'na Center downtown. This is a beautiful building with lots of windows. My work is having a booth there selling their Moose calendars and needed volunteers. I love craft shows (even if I never buy anything as costs are usually high. Not that the items aren't worth it). Anyway they needed volunteers and seeing as I had no plans, love crafts shows and can get in free this way, I thought why not. So I'll be working the booth from 2 pm - 6 pm. Our moose calendars are a hot item every year. ADN sells thousands of them. The newspapers photographers, as well as readers pictures of moose throughout the year are looked over and an committee decides which 12 pictures will go in the calendar and ADN prints them. They have done it for years and have quite the following. So I expect the booth will be quite busy. So here's my plan for the day....
-clean house
-go to the 5th Avenue mall to JC Penney to look for winter boots and possibly some Christmas shopping.
-get some lunch
-head over to the Emporium a little before I start so I have a chance to walk through before I have to work the booth.
-drop the booth money at the safe at the office
-fix supper for my husband and whatever girls are there
-work on the church bulletin
-try to convince someone to play some games (I really want to play games and everyone is working these day - the nerve of them)

Tomorrow we will have a very skeleton congregation. We'll have 4 (possibly 5 out because of work), 2 out because of anniversary...Happy Anniversary Micah and Megan! And another 5 that we don't know for sure as they don't always come; so yeah a very few...but where two or three are gathered together in My name...Jesus will be there and that's what it's all about.

Have a great weekend and a blessed service.

So Very Tired.

Please pray for me today as I slept rotten last night. I feel like I didn't sleep at all. I actually am so tired I am feeling nauseated. With this being the busiest time of the year at the newspaper, and us being so short staffed. There's no way I can't go in...not that I wouldn't any way. If I go 6 months with out a sick day, I earn an extra vacation day and with going to England and all the different things going on this next year, I need as many vacations days I can get.

Today is our Thanksgiving potluck luncheon with Turkey and Ham (and then everyone brings a dish to pass). I'm looking foward to that, but then you know how turkey makes you feel after you eat it...So any way, I would really appreciate your prayers.

What Would Jesus Do?

I really had to ask myself that question today. With the many changes in our office from accounts being switched and commissions being changed things aren't as clear as they use to be. To make a long story short there was an ad that I initially gave the quote for prior to the changes made to my former boss' position. When everything came down today my former boss tried to insist it should be his. He made some very lame reasoning and all. Bottom line was it qualified to be on my desk but I knew if it was to stay there I would have literally fight for it. It was over $7000 of revenue for this month with more coming throughout the next year. It would've made a big difference in what my commission be. Though the facts showed it should be on my I kept hearing Mark's arguments and hearing almost a desperation in his voice (he is experiencing a big difference in pay, I'm sure and has a big mortgage payment as he lives in one of the ritzier parts of town). He's been at ADN for 31 years and though there's several reasons for the demotion, it's still got be rough. BUT the account really was mine. If I didn't just give it over to him, I would have to go to the VP of advertising, who is so overwhelmed that he doesn't have time to blow his nose (and leaves for a week of vacation on Friday) as to keep it. I literally sat at my desk asking the Lord to show what HE would have me to do. Not was fair, but what was the best witness in this. So I gave it to Mark. Though I was really disappointed that he (Mark) made it come to this I felt at peace about having done it. Then only moments later another order came in that has always been mine but they hadn't advertised for months, and I had to ask him a question and after he answered it he asked me if I was going to keep it on my desk. Shockingly I told him it always had been on my desk and never was considered national. His response was just ok. Ugh!

Anyway, every now and then we have to remember good work ethics even need the help of the Lord. I still feel good about what I did and now I need to just keep a good attitude going forward. I know God will provide for me and I will NOT have a dog eat dog mentality. God's been good to me in my job and I know He'll continue as long as I keep a Godly attitude.

Oh to be Young Again....

I am so physically exhausted. It was a busy day. Brother Nowling and I actually slept in. I believe we got up about 8:45 am but we both set to cleaning house, me laundry and then the bulletins, him doing the bills and then vacuuming. Then we had errands to run. We mailed off a box of things for the Williams, then headed to the Sear mall for several things. Brother Nowling desperately needed new shoes. Last Sunday he stepped out the truck and the heal broke of his church shoes and his work shoes were separating from the sole. That man wears the shoes until they literally fall a part. The church shoes he's probably had for 5 or more years. Though the work shoes hadn't been but a year or two he wore them a lot. He had found himself some work shoes at Famous Footwear on Friday and realized he could half off a second pair, so I insisted we go back with his receipt and he get him some dress shoes. Thus we did.

Then we headed to GNC as he was told by his doctor he needed to get some special vitamins to build the cartilage in knee. And I got my blood work results and the average vitamin D level is suppose to be 32 and mine was only 7. What does that mean...I had to google it to find it. Vitamin D helps the bones and lack of it can cause bone and muscle aches...oh you mean it's not just my age and being overweight. Anyway so we picked that up, then Brother Nowling went and sat in the truck well I went grocery shopping.

We then met Josh back at our place as it was youth night and it was to be dinner at Spago. Italian. We went at sat up the church with red and white, candle light and classical music (couldn't find Italian). Then came back and I assisted with the salad and the drinks while Josh prepared spaghetti and chicken Alfredo. It really turned out good. I think everyone enjoyed it, it just got over too soon for some. But by the time we did all that, transported everything there, and then back. I am absolutely exhausted. That's why I say I wish I was young again...although several of our youth are working a lot so they are either working or sleeping to the point that "youth" isn't what it use to be.

By the way, PTL Joleesa got on at Target. They just opened here in Alaska in October. She applied online on Saturday, got called Monday for an interview, got offered the job on the spot, and had orientation today. She officially starts Friday. They actually had her scheduled to work Monday, but she has to finish out at McDonald's this week. She is so glad to be getting out of McDonald's as are we. We pray this works out for her.

In regards to my post for Levi...Levi thanks for allowing me to have so much fun. It was great reading the comments. I wish I could've seen some of the faces as they read the post and heard their on the spot comments. I want you all to know that I kind of got of "taste" of Levi that Saturday Jessa was travelling back home. We were texting back and forth and I got and idea of his sense of humor so I figured he could take. I'm sure we'll have great fun when he comes.

Tomorrow obviously is church. I pray we have a good service. I really long for all our members to be out. Work is keeping so many a way. Please help us pray that changes. For their sake and the sake of the church. Also, tomorrow night is my youth service...usually I have it pretty well put together by now and maybe just have to put some finishing touches on it, or review it, but I have NO idea what I'm going to do. I have been praying and seeking inspiration but NOTHING has come. So please pray for me tomorrow as I have to get it together tomorrow afternoon. I don't want to be doing something just to have something either.

May God bless all the church services tomorrow.

This Is For You Levi

Well Levi wanted something from the parents. He won't get from the dad (he reads blogs, tells me I have to blog, and chews me out if I say anything about him that he doesn't like on my blog but that's as far as it goes) but you'll get something from the mom.

I am so glad you have come into Jessa's life. You have made her very happy.

As the mom, I want you to know in a world where everyone thinks they have to live together before getting married to decide if they're right for each other, I'm so grateful that God has made it clear as to he right way to "be sure". A loooonnnnngggggg courtship. The more time you can spend together, in a group and with chaperones of course, the more you can be sure.
Because as you know marriage, is for life.

I also need to be sure you can lead her Spiritually first and utmost. Support her financially and be "the man" of the house as well. You need to know how to work on cars so her dad doesn't have to work on hers any more. You also, need to be able to fix things around the house, so her dad doesn't have to any more. You see her dad has had to take of 4 women so, we want to know he can turn at least one of them over to someone else to relieve him of some of the responsibility.

IF you do plan on marrying, as much as I look forward to being a grandmother, it is very important that you two allow yourselves time to get to know each other. Get settled in and have some fun together. So I strongly recommend you wait 3-5 years before you have children.

Having said all that, I must tell you Levi....I'm JOKING!

Seriously now, I thank God daily that He has brought you and Jessa together. There is not a single person that has said anything negative about you. Your testimony goes before, literally because most of what we know of you is from other people. That says so very much. I am confident that it won't be long that I will get a son-in-law, and from what I hear, you'll make a good one. Her dad and mine heart's desire for our girls is that they find a Godly man and what we have heard, is that she has found one. Wherever God takes you in this relationship, I know that you will be good to her and she will be good to you. Enjoy yourselves, but keep God as the main focus in your life.

A good weekend!

It was a good weekend, it has just ended too soon. I woke up yesterday morning to my cell phone ringing at 7 am. It was my dad. The time difference has made it very difficult for me to catch him. He is doing good and keeping busy, so he's not in his room very often. I'm a morning person, so though I planned to sleep in until at least 8 am it was ok.

Brother Nowling then got up and the two of us worked on cleaning the house. Then we went to Golden Coral for their breakfast buffet. It was awesome and the price was cheaper then any other place that we would have gone (except I do have some buy one get one free coupons ~ oh well, it was good). We then headed to the Book and Bible store to see about getting the communion things as we were having communion today...OUCH! Each piece was over $40 and we just couldn't do it. So we bought the disposable communion cups and I used the plastic tray and bowl that we've used before. We then went grocery shopping and then came home. Brother Nowling is walking with a cane. Though his knee is doing somewhat better, he still experiences bouts of excruciating pain.

I then worked on the state books...ugh. It is soooo frustrating when you're off! I knew where the mistake had to be but I couldn't figure out why. After sever hours I got them to balance and then Josh and Jackie came for dinner and we talked a little about the next youth activity that Josh is in charge of. We're going to turn the church into an Italian restaurant, Spago, and put on a spaghetti dinner with an ambiance of Italy and Chef Joshua doing the cooking, Brother Nowling and I and probably Jackie doing the serving. I'm really hoping the young people will invite someone out. We have these monthly youth activities for the young people to keep busy but also so that we can have an opportunity to bring our friends to fellowship with us. This is something totally different for us but I know Josh can pull it off and I'm excited to help him.

Then this morning's Sunday School lesson was great. I got a lot out of it and I spoke pretty strong and clear to the youth. We are always talking about God's faithfulness to us, but what about our faithfulness to Him. We are more faithful to our jobs, family and friends then to our Lord and Saviour. It is so easy to leave Him out of plans. To have excuses why we don't have our devotions, aren't in church, etc. We desire faithfulness in our relationships be it work, family or friends AND we desire God's faithfulness to us...but what about our faithfulness to Him. Brother Nowling then preached a good message from Ezekiel.

This evening at 5 pm we had our first communion and feetwashing in our new building...that is it was suppose to start at 5 pm but some had to work and just couldn't make it that soon so we started at 5:30 pm. I, myself had a hard time getting into the right spirit as I was really frustrated for those that were missing. Whatever their reason, it was a great disappointment from me, and I can imagine from our God that we were honoring, that I had to fight to rise above, but once I did. A sweet spirit settled over us. It was a good feeling. Our God is soooo good and He deserves everything from us. Then Jessa had her WMB service. It was short but encouraging as she reminded us that we all have "a story" of things that have happened in our lives that we can use to share with someone and help them to come to the Lord. Then we went to a little restaurant and fellowshipped and ate.

Now I'm off to bed as another week faces us. The Lord has really been helping me to have more of a positive attitude at work. The staff is dwindling as is our commission. I will receive the lowest commission I've had since I started there (and yet this new plan was to help us make more money A good number didn't make any commission. The CFO is actually stepping in and taking a look at things and we hope to re-vamp the plan before we lose any more people.

Oh and by the way, I'm going to England in April Sister Sharon asked me to join the youth mission that's going there in April. Though I'm stepping out in faith for the finances (especially with the lack of commissions). I know I'm suppose to go and I am so excited. I resigned from direct ladies retreat as it takes place the weekend I get back. Things just weren't coming together for me to plan it and I looked at the calendar and realized why...I'm going to England and I'm not the one that is to be in charge this year. So I resigned. I am confident that this is the Lord's will on both issues, England and ladies retreat.

This year and 2009 holds a lot of exciting things for us. Many of you have been reading of the love story of Levi and Jessa....I'll leave it with this fact ~ I'm excited for Jessa and I'm anxious to meet the man personally that God has brought into her life. Then I'll have England and then excitement is all around regarding our camp with the Griffins. Yes, Sister Sharon is our evangelist. Brother Tim and Victoria will be coming. They are going to teach a class on relationships. And our theme is "Waging War!" This is Alaska and we have young people that are in the military here. This theme holds great meaning and I'm excited to see what the Lord is going to do for us this year.

Have a good week everyone.

Please Pray for Brother Nowling

Last week it was his tooth, this week his knee. He is horrible pain with his knee. Some time ago he twisted and then he did it again Monday night. He was in so much pain Tuesday night he couldn't find a comfortable position. He went to an orthopedics doctor (it happened on the job so workman's comp says he has to). They are thinking he tore the muscle (maybe just stretched it, but considering the pain more likely torn). They also found the one side of his knee is bone on bone (no cartilage) nothing to do with the twisting just years. They gave him a cortisone shot and then sent for an MRI. We don't know the results of that yet. He made it through church last night but him and I went out to eat afterwards and we wound up getting it to go because he was in such pain, he was fighting tears and ready to throw up. If it's torn, it means surgery, so please pray for him.

I Asked for a night of Laughs and I Got It!

A couple of weeks ago Matthew Peter and I were texting each other and I asked next time he was home if we could have a game night as I needed a good laugh. He promised me pizza and games...and he kept his promise last night. He brought Nathan, Micah, and Megan with him. Earlier in October I bought UNO attack for a youth night. I think we played about two rounds of it after Jackie's cool group games that she had us do and everyone seemed to enjoy it. I know I did. So that was the game that I wanted to start the night with. A game that took no thinking, didn't last forever, and that I stood a chance to win (remember my losing streak about this time last year). We'll part of that came true. The "didn't last forever" came true for the first game to 500 as it took Micah I believe only 3 hands to hit 500. The second game we played two rounds and no one reached 500 as each round lasted FOREVER. Uno Attack has some cards that regular Uno doesn't have; trade hands with another player, "X" means lay down all your cards of that color. Now remember the name says "attack" so instead of drawing you hit the launcher and it does just that it LAUNCHES cards at you. There's a 2, ? (hit until you get something) and everyone has to hit it. Now see the deal is, it doesn't launch every time. When you hit you may not get anything, or you may get 3 cards, 5 cards, I think the most is 10 (and that I know because it spit 10 at me several times). We laughed so hard. The game changes constantly. You may have UNO one minute than someone trades their hand with you and you have 20 cards, OR you don't have a card to lay down so you hit the launcher and you get "vomited" a bunch of cards. Sister Vicki and Sister Becki, the laughs you two would have would have your sides hurting. It is so much fun....but after 5 hours of it and 2 hands being probably about 3-4 of those hours, I don't mind waiting awhile to play it again. BUT I WON the first game well guess who lost...(my winning score 60, Micah's losing score 619). The second game we called it quits at 1 am Matthew won with 199 and Nathan lost with 425. Oh and Nathan was a laugh in itself, he loved to get the cards. He'd get his hand built up (and never organized the cards) and then get a trade hands and trade someone almost ready to go out, and then do it all over again. That was his strategy and it was great fun for him and us.

If you've never played the game, get it. It's worth it.

Well I got get some work done and then we have youth Bible Study tonight. Everyone have a good weekend.

He's doing better1

Thanks to those that prayed for Brother Nowling. Though he is still experiencing pain it has lessen considerably. The dental work isn't done yet. You know they keep you coming back so they can get every dollar possible. But he finally went.

I'm excited for the weekend. Other than youth Bible Study at Heather's and Jeremy's tomorrow night and getting to possibly play some games tonight, I have no plans for the weekend. That's what makes it good.

I think I have an answer to prayer. I feel like I do but I've got a couple of things to have come together and then they'll be no doubt...but you know what, God is GOOD all the time.

Brother Nowling had a Root Canal

Please pray for Brother Nowling, he had a root canal today and is a lot of pain. He has infection as well so to say the least he is not doing too good.

I am pretty frazeled from work as more people are quitting...yikes! I covering service tonight due to his mouth not working.

It's been only 10 degrees today...cold. It's all those people that start decorating for Christmas before halloween, it makes weather think it has to be cold.

Gotta run!!!

Reflections of the Heart

It's been a week of tug-a-war with the enemy. Stress has been trying to be my best friend. I thought when you're almost 50 acne doesn't know you any more, but when stress is your friend, so is acne. Couple all that with fighting a cold (scratchy throat, chest and sinuses hurting). Ugh! I am working in the most volatile atmosphere that I think I have ever been in. The last batch of lay offs last day was this week. They are putting all these new procedures into place without consulting the very ones that do the work to know if they will work. I cost the company over $12,000 by accidentally not scheduling two major ads. The graphics department who are stretched so thin...dropped a wrong ad so I had to issue a big credit. There has been so many tears shed by various ones that are just having "melt downs" trying to get everything done. No position is safe.

I did have a good short visit with one of the gals who is a Christian. We both were saying how we couldn't handle things if it wasn't for God. As stressed as we are, we were both saying how our hearts ache for those that were laid off and those in graphics that are putting in long hours and not able to get everything done. I made the statement (which I've been saying a lot lately, and have declared many times throughout my life), I am so glad that God never changes. When everything is shifting around you, I am so thankful for my ROCK, Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

I've also noticed that God has really been testing me regarding the lesson I taught on Sunday regarding allowing Him to be I AM in every part of my life. Allowing HIM to examine us and show us where He isn't the "I AM". I have truly felt a tug-a-war as I know I have to give over to Him things but finding it so very difficult. I remind myself that I'd rather have these things revealed to me now, then to possibly miss out on the "well done, thou good and faithful servant".

The song "Shut in with God" has been being sung in my heart a lot this week as that will truly be where I'll get the power to make it each day. Today, I was really thinking how homesick I am for heaven. This world, thankfully, is NOT my home and I am soooo longing for those streets of gold. To see my mom, grandpa and the grandma I never knew. Though my mom's and my relationship here on earth was far from perfect, I know she loved me and was always praying for me. When I see her in heaven, our relationship will be perfect.

Tomorrow I have no big plans. I hope to get some rest as to get rid of this cold once and for all. I also, hope to go with Jenna car shopping. Beyond that sleep and cleaning house is in my plans.

The door of happiness....

Not a whole lot going on here. Saturday we went to our new Target only to be disappointed due to bare shelves and lack of selection. Then we had our youth activity at the church with Jackie in charge. It was great. I think everyone enjoyed the new games that she taught us and then I had got Uno Attack. Between the games and the variety of food, it was a good night. Get this here we have a youth event where everyone is to bring their favorite treat to share AND we had NO SWEETS ~ giggle. Quite the mature group of young people we have.

Sunday was my youth service...after some charades of people who tried to hide from God; I brought out the "goalie" masks that I bought for each youth (they were called goalie masks but they looked like the mask worn by phantom of the opera). I wanted to find the plastic snow white, Cinderella, spider man, superman, Garfield, etc...but do such masks even exist any more? They were all rubber, scary masks...but I felt the goalie mask wasn't too bad (although the groans from some was obvious they didn't agree ~ grin). Any way, my point was we can't hide from God and how we need to take our masks off and be true to ourselves and therefore to God. I wasn't dealing with sin, but just being real. Recognizing where we are weak, searching ourselves to see where we're lacking and ask God to show us "us". Get out of our comfort zones and allow God to use us how He sees fit.

Then off to work today, for an announcement of even another change. My former boss's boss, who is now my boss, announced he accepted a position at a Honolulu paper and will be leaving in three weeks. UGH! He is a great guy that carries a lot of responsibility. There were several groans, jaws on the floor, and even some tears. He said it was the most difficult decision he's ever had to make as he didn't go to them they came to him. I don't know if we can operate with any smaller of a staff. Wow. What next.

I came across a saying the other day that I put in our bulletin...
When the door of happiness closes, another opens, but often times we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one which has been opened for us.
I have been thinking for several days on this. It is so true.

Thank you for those that have been praying for Brother Nowling and myself. Please continue as we are still dealing with things that we really need God's help in.

Pourin' My Heart Out

I would like to pour my heart out about some things but I don't feel the liberty to do so. What I will do is plead for prayer for Brother Nowling. He has some HUGE things facing him that He needs God's wisdom, guidance and boldness to deal with. Also, pray for me that I can be the support that he needs me to be and not an added burden.

Thanks in advance.

Revival's End!

Well tonight was the last night of revival. The Byers are very precious people. That man preaches the Word straight. I know it hit home to many. Last night he preached on Power, tonight he preached on...salvation, hell...and if you're not saved that's where you're going. To say it was straight forward is nothing but truth, but unfortunately the Spirit didn't break loose. We had a couple of visitors and they heard the Truth and all have had some meat to chew on throughout the week. I pray that as people dwell on what was preached that lives will start to change. Sunday night was the best for me. I'm still rehashing so much of it in my mind and reminding myself and asking God to remind me to love. There are those that I have been afraid to "show" love to and really put myself out to because I have been hurt. I told Brother Nowling, I don't want to purposely walk into the Lion's den and he reminded me, that God was there in the lion's den because Daniel was obedient to Him. So Sunday night's message is still doing it's work in me.

Tonight, I am so physically exhausted I even turned down fellowship afterwards. I feel myself coming down with a cold as my chest, throat and head really hurt. It never fails that the enemy always tries to rob me of the blessings of good services by getting me down sick afterwards. I know it's because I push myself between job, home and church...but I truly feel it's just one more way the enemy waits outside the revival ready to bring us down. Well my spirit has been blessed and I truly thank the Lord.

I'm headed to bed now. Tomorrow I go to get the eye exam that I messed up by being late to on Saturday. Then off to work...tomorrow night I will have a home cooked meal (of what I'm not sure yet, but I haven't ate much this week and what I did was eating out and I'm tired of it) and just relaxing.

Revival!

Convention was good. Brother Byers preached falling my ABM boost on Friday on "love" and then Saturday night he preached on . Last night was the first night of revival (Sister Vicki, revival will go through Wednesday). Last he preached on "stepping in the light of love" basically. He had Brother Nowling up there with him almost the entire time. It was almost like tag team preaching as he would say something, Brother Nowling would respond and he would finish the statement. It was 1 1/2 hours of this. I was so tired, but the annointing was so strong that he never lost me for even a second (even though my lower back and hips were crying out from sitting). He minced no word regarding, love, forgiving, etc. It was powerful.

They both are such mellow people. They do NOT like cold though ~ giggle. I was feeling bad that we didn't take them anywhere, as initally we we're going to just drive to shipcreek. But the weather, though pretty, was nasty. They said that's ok it's warm in here and cooold out there ~ grin. I tried to get him to recline in the chair and he said he had his wife for a pillow, thus the picture below.

Pray for the next tonight. This gets really tough for me as I don't get off work until 5:30 and basically I head right to the church. But I am sooo excited for what God's going to do. The Holy Ghost worked on about 1/2 the congregation now for the other 1/2 ~smile.

A Day of Rest

We woke up this morning to to a true winter wonderland with big flakes coming down. Brother and Sister Byers have been saying all weekend that it hasn't been as cold as they thought it would be but now they've got a taste of the snow. I fixed Moose/Beef stew and biscuits and the Byers, Sister Connie Peter, Micah, Megan, Nathan, Isaiah, Ernie and the girls came to eat with us. I sent Brother Byers and Brother Nowling out for pie as several said they were wanting some. With stomachs full, the young people a very spirited came of "I Buy" where Joleesa won (which is VERY rare) and Megan lost. While Brother Nowling, Brother Byers, Sister Connie and Ernie all fell asleep.
To get a true picture of our "day of rest" I'll leave nothing to your imagination. Enjoy ~smile.

Minister's Convention & Revival

Tonight starts minister's convention that will go through Sunday morning and then we go into Revival starting the Sunday evening service. Brother Byers is our guest and we're so looking forward to what the Lord has for us.

It's been another stressful week at work and then trying to get ready for this weekend.

First work...the changes continue and this time it hits me. My boss who has been with the newspaper for 31 years has been basically de-moted. He will no longer be a manager (therefore he won't be my boss any more) but will go back to being a sales rep. In so doing he will be taking the national accounts that I handle. These are the largest dollar accounts that I enjoy the most working with. They are also the ones that make the biggest difference in my commissions....BUT at least we both have a job. The morale at the office is the worst of any place I've ever worked. I need God's help that I keep the right spirit. It's been tough, but I'm trying.

Then for convention. I just found out Sunday night that I will be the state ABM coordinator. Along with that I am to boost VLB's as the Rusty Cabelas (?) who is to be the new leader has a wedding and won't be there until Sunday. Then I was asked to teach the adult SS class. That along with the state books, the camp and retreat reports and boost. You know I want to work for the Lord, and I enjoy it all, but I usually like to have more than 4 days notice. Along with that we needed to get out sandwich boards done for outside the building, and the Mission wall letters laminated for Jessa to put up, and fliers done for revival. Well at this moment I have everything but the revival fliers done. Jackie helped with the sandwich board (we did only get one side of one board done), Jenna made the letters and I cut them out, laminated them and cut them out again, and then I got the other stuff done. I'm excited about what the Lord gave me for the ABM boost and even VLB, and SS (although I teach usually teach the youth SS so I was kind of prepared for that already-but I love teaching SS). I did finally say no to something. The Nowling sisters are on to sing tonight. Brother Grant said it could be all of us, one of us, two or three what ever "sisters" wanted to sing. We were all going to sing but it's really hard getting us all together to practice....so I made the "mother" decision and seeing as Joleesa and Jessa both have today off, they'll be able to practice this afternoon.

Tomorrow I have an eye exam, after our leadership meeting. Then the Byers will be spending the afternoon with us (so I'll have to be up early in the morning to clean).

Though life has been busy I am sooooo looking forward to REVIVAL

Pray for us.

It's Snowing!!!!

I know there are those that are rejoicing...but it's only October. Not even halloween. No snow, no snow not yet. I can't even say it's pretty because it's tooooooooo early!

My week and weekend

The week was very stressful at work. When 47 people get laid off that means more work for those that remain. I feel I'll never be on top of things, but I am so grateful that I still have a job.

We were able to purchase a Kirby vacuum cleaner and shampooer. With all the money we've put into carpet cleaning and cheap vacuums we decided this was an investment that we needed to make. We had owned a re-built one years ago that served us well and with all the traffic that we get here on a light colored carpeting we really needed. So Saturday was cleaning day. It was the first Saturday that Brother Nowling was at home and not sleeping. In the past our bedroom has been very neglected. Working opposite shifts means someone is almost always in the bed. So being he didn't have to sleep we planned a thorough cleaning in our room. We cleaned out closet, shoe bins, draws, stripped the bed and took our vacuum to the actual mattress (recommended by the Kirby salesperson-as he puts it, it's place with the most dust mites because of the dead skin and no one thinks to vacuum it). It almost seemed like we had a new mattress. We vacuumed the drapes, the pictures the corners, the bookshelves, my stuffed animals, my porcelain dolls, anything that had collected dust got vacuumed. I was sneezing like crazy. We brought out the flannel sheets and our winter comforter and we sorted and put away laundry. The only thing we didn't do that I really wanted to, was re-arrange our bedroom. Brother Nowling said he like it as it was, but I don't think he'd have admitted it if he didn't because he doesn't like to move furniture around. But that was ok, we really accomplished a lot in our room.

From there we headed out run errands. We stopped for lunch and then headed over to the Ulu Factory. We had bought an Ulu for them when they were here and they used ours, and were so sold on them that they bought several as souvenirs. Now they are wanting more for Christmas gifts so they called in an order of I think 13 Ulus and asked if we could pick them up and mail them to them as the factory wanted to charge $8/Ulu for shipping...rip off. Of course we would, and I just remembered it at about 3 pm yesterday and I didn't know when they closed. So we booked it from the restaurant and they had them all ready for us. We too got another "bigger" Ulu per Brother Nowling's request and a beautiful metal state of Alaska key rack. We then headed home for me to study some more for our youth Bible study. I just love Brother Covey's "Delving into the Depths". If yo haven't read, you really need to. About 40 minutes before the study, my youngest brother called just sobbing. I tried to stay calm, trying to pull out of him what was wrong...he as quickly as he could told me dad was ok, so then I was just patient to let him get his composure and then talk. He really needs our prayers. He is the one that is really trying to be there for dad. He lives about 3 hours from the nursing home, but since my mom passed away he goes to see dad every Sunday and calls him every night. Dad does fine during the day but has a difficult time in the evenings and weekends as there's nothing for him to do and he's pretty much stuck in his room. Bottom line, between all the hours Kelly's been working and his feeling the loss of our mom, coupled with his trying to be there for dad, he was overwhelmed and rightfully so. He is not married, and though has come back to the Lord doesn't have a close church family either, so he has no one to share the burden with. So he needs our prayers as does dad. I sent the Jenna, Joleesa, Jackie and Josh on to Micah's and told them to start eating and I would be there as quickly as I could for the study. I felt like I had to be there for my brother, and I wanted to be. I still had to cut him off about 7:30 pm but by that time hopefully he had felt some relief. I then went to the study, came home and continued getting ready for church.

Then of course we had church today. It was good to have Jeremy, Heather, and Lillian out. This next week will be preparing for minister's convention and revival with Brother Byers. We still haven't to finish the sandwich boards that will be our signs outside and then we want to get our mission wall done.

So that was my life this past week. Everyone have a great week.

God's blessing!

We couldn't have asked for more beautiful weather for our anniversary. I didn't get out of work as early as I was suppose to, but it was ok, because I won $50 cash for making the first sale of the day, and decided that since I was already late, I might as well stay round and collect it. God is good. When I got home, Jody and I headed first to the church as we picked up the American Flag and the poles, stands and toppers today. The Church flag came Thursday so he took it to the flag pole place to get it put on correctly, etc.

I need to back up, we had originally received the flag that was part of the flag program, but it was an outdoor flag and it wouldn't work for us. I emailed Brother Werkheiser and asked him to go ahead and send us the 3x5 indoor flag with fringe and express mail it so we could have it for the Adam's baby's dedication. We figured we pay for it and take up an offering later as to cover whatever we could get. Every church we have ever pastored, we have never had an indoor flag (outside one in Menomonie). This represents who we are and we have been so excited about getting it. Any way, Brother Nowling found a flag pole place here in town so he went and ordered the American flag and the pole, etc for the Church flag. We were literally shocked at the price (Tammy K. they are VERY expensive), but this was the finishing, and BEST touch for this space that God has provided in making it into His Sanctuary. Brother Werkheiser had emailed and said they hoped it would be there Friday or Saturday as that's what they were told. Fortunately it came Thursday, but it came certified mail and Brother Nowling was sleeping so they didn't leave it so he had to go down to the post office to get it. Fortunately it was at the airport one that stays open until midnight so he just went on his way to work. Oh, but I need to back up again...(sorry~grin) as I was leaving for work Thursday morning, my cell phone rang from a number I didn't recognize, I answered as I was going out the door and this woman's voice says "Sister Nowling, I just wanted to tell you somebody paid for your church flag. You'll receive a bill in with flag, but just ignore it as it's been paid." I was in shock and fighting tears. I had to ask who I was speaking to and then thanked Sister Wendy. God is so good. And so is the precious person that paid for this special gift. So back to our Friday; I didn't want to leave town without seeing them. They looked awesome, although our ceiling was too low to fit the cross topper on so we had to saw the poles down.

Back to our anniversary trip now. We decided to eat the Double Muskie. It is famous for their steak and is in Girdwood. About an hour away. They don't take reservations but they said there were tables open and no waiting list at that time. By the time we got there an hour later, the 40 minute wait they told us turned into 1 hour and 45 minutes (and we had to stand the WHOLE time ~ ugh). We were standing by the men's restroom and a lady and kept joking with Jody that he needed to charge for the guys to go in and that way our supper would be paid for, or he should hold the door knob when they were coming out. He was too chicken and wouldn't do it. It was a long wait, and usually we absolutely wouldn't wait, but we were there and it was our anniversary. This restaurant was weird. It wasn't very big and the tables were jammed in to fit as many people as possible. But their decor was everything and anything plastered on every inch of space on the walls AND the ceiling. It kind of was a Louisiana flavor...with other strange things missed in. When we did finally eat we ordered their Peppered steak (it was huge, I think 16 oz), baked potato, salad and jalapeno bread. It was worth the wait. We then went on to Cooper Landing to The Hutch B&B (which is really a 3 story lodge). It was a beautiful, clear sky night so the drive was great. We got their about about 10 pm and just wanted a comfortable bed. The man was really friendly. When Jody asked what floor we were on and he said 2nd, I groaned. Remember we stood for almost two hours. I've been having a lot of problem with my back and hips and Jody twisted his knee the other day, so we really didn't want stairs. The groan was enough, the man says, "oh it's late, and out of season, take this room" and opened the door right next to the lobby. It was a roomy room (smile) with two double beds (I had reserved a queen bed). It was very nice. As we got ready for bed, I used the bathroom and upon flushing the toilet it over flowed. Jody wouldn't let me get the guy as we weren't dressed, so he took the plunger to it and we had plenty of towels so we cleaned it up. Though the bed wasn't a queen it was a VERY comfortable bed. We got up at about 6:30 am, had coffee and muffin, visited with the owner's wife and a couple that were guests and then started on our way. Temperature was 35 degrees but the sky looked promising to warm up. We ran into some hard rain along the way but not for long. It was a beautiful, clear day that required only a sweatshirt (I don't know what the temperature got to). We stopped at a couple of shops along the way and then headed to "the spit". A finger of land that protruded out into the bay. The bummer of it was almost, all the shops and restaurants on the spit were closed for the season. BUT Land's End Resort was open. We had an awesome lunch of fish (halibut) and chips with a window view of the bay. We saw the volcanoes and beautiful colors. I'll post pictures later. We saw the fairy loading so I pulled out my magazine and saw that it goes to this small island called Solvia (?). It leaves at 11 am on Saturday and comes back at 5:15 pm. I so wanted to go. Jody's response, we didn't plan it. So!!!! And he just drove on. I started with an ugly attitude until he said if you really want to go I guess we can, but I could see his ugly attitude starting so I said it would be no fun if he wasn't wanting to go and we left it at that. Later he said we would have to plan on it some time when we weren't having to be back early. Ugh! Why didn't he just say that. We had to get back to do some things to get things ready for church because of the dedication and baby shower(Sister Twana convinced Heather to let us give her shower, so it'll be following the morning service). AND it dawned us that we had to give ourselves plenty of time to get in case we ran into any problems we'd have time to deal with them and still get back, as we were the only ones that have keys for the church. Like I said, why didn't he just say that in the first place. Anyway, we drove around Homer a little more and then about 2:30 pm headed back.

God blessed us with such beautiful weather after days of rain. We felt like we in a golden state as the yellows were so vibrant (we don't get the reds and oranges here like we did in Menomonie). The rivers had the blue/green glacier color, the mountains had the greens and golds. It was all just majestic.

It was a good weekend and now I need to get to bed as to get up early enough to get the rest of the stuff together for the shower tomorrow. I am so looking forward to the wonderful service we're going to have. We will be blessed to have both the Adams and the Macks as well as Lillian. Most our church people haven't even seen her. I just saw her for a few moments myself. And then of course it'll be good to have her parents Jeremy and Heather there as it's been several weeks since they've been out. Most importantly I am confident our Lord is going to pour His blessings out in a wonderful day with Him.

Looking Forward to Friday.

Friday is Brother Nowling and mine 27th anniversary. (Would I really have had to clarify "Brother Nowling and mine" ~ smile ~ I would hope if I said it is my 27th anniversary, everyone would know what I meant). After much searching, and many phone calls we were finally able to find a hotel (actually Hutch's Bed & Breakfast lodge) that wasn't closed for the year or booked as we make our way to Homer. We haven't been to Homer yet, but it's about a 5 hour drive and by the time I get off work at 3 pm (I'll go in at 7 am and work through lunch ~which I always do any way) it would be late by the time we got there. But we also want to enjoy the beauty of an area we haven't travelled before. Brother Nowling suggested that we get the hotel in Soldotna/Kenai area. So we'll be staying in Cooper Landing. We've been in this area before and it's beautiful. The B&B looks nice from what we can tell and serves a "full" continental breakfast. We'll then get up in the morning and enjoy the drive to Homer. We'll just bumm around town. Hopefully I'll remember to take my camera since I don't have the photographer of the family with me, and we'll enjoy the beauty of another part of Alaska, stop in at the souvenior shops, and eat at one of the finer restraunts (which I don't know what that is yet), but most importantly, I'll spend time with my best friend on earth and the love of my life for 27+ years. AND Micah is helping me surprise him with a specail gift.

We'll be coming back Saturday night as to be in church Sunday. I really look forward to Church. This Sunday will be extra special as we'll have some special people there.

Battle of the Tears

Ugh! This weekend has been the battle of the tears. Friday night I left work and almost walked out without signing off on my Sat, Sun and Monday ads. Although I had clocked out something told me I needed to do it. Thank you Lord, I had missed scheduling a $6,000+ ad for AT&T for Sunday. It would've been no body's fault but mine. That would've been not only a loss of $6000 of revenue but according to their contract if WE make a mistake we have to run the ad at n/c. Anyway, God was looking out for me and the sweet lady in the lay out department worked feverishly with our editorial department to get it in. I was fighting the tears the whole. Tears of frustration at me for making the mistake in the first place. Tears of thankfulness that God helped me to catch it. And tears of thankfulness to Robin and Michael for the extra work I put them through because of my mistake and yet they were so nice about it.

Then on Saturday, I sat at the breakfast table with my husband and just wanted to cry. No reason, just wanted to cry. He was so sweet as we separated for him to go home and sleep and me to go and get my hair done as he told me to smile, gave me a kiss and told me to have fun. That really made want to cry. Then I sat in the hairdressers chair and my hairdresser wasn't talking so I was left my own thoughts, and the sounds of the young lady next to me who recently turned 30, was a Florida but was here in Alaska because her husband asked to be stationed here and didn't ask her about it. She was having her hair colored. She was blond but wanted a sun bleached blond look as she had been use to her hair being bleached by the sun. Her hairdresser tried to convince not to go so light, but she was determined. When it was all done, I understood why. Her hair was a white blond, she said it would taking getting use to but she liked it. In between her conversations I sat there fighting the tears. Tears for NO reason. It's been a long time since I've had one of "these" emotional battles.

Saturday night I then battled more tears as several of our youth couldn't make it out to our youth activity due to jobs (please pray, I know they need their jobs, but more and more of them are having to miss church activities due to their jobs. I KNOW God can work it out. I've seen Him do it before). I had to change some of my plans. But I think they enjoyed decorating pumpkins, gourds and fall leaves (which I will use for tonight's youth service), and then carved two pumpkins to say "Victory Leaders". Then tears came again, but this time through laughter as I was sitting in the rocking chair Jenna suggested Joleesa climb in my lap and be my baby again...well Joleesa didn't but Jackie did and then we reversed it. I won't go into the details but I laughed so hard I was crying. It was great. I will post the picture of Jackie in my lap once Jenna sends it to me...but you'll never see the one of me in Jackie's lap! Anyway, the decorated autumn ornaments turned out great. Tim Osborne really surprised us in his creativity.

This morning during worship I had us focus on "the blood" and once again the tears were there...but this time I didn't battle them. I let them flow as I rejoiced in the power, strength and comfort I receive because of the blood my Lord shed for me. Brother Nowling then preached on challenging us to reach a level with the Lord as we haven't experience before . Finding a joy within the Church that only comes from a close relationship with the groom. All that after a great Sunday School lesson that was pretty straight forward to the youth on Rebekah and Isaac; reminding us that we must have God present in ALL relationships. It was a great morning.

This evening is youth service. For some time the Lord has placed on my heart "He Prepareth a table before us, in the presence of our enemies...." so that is our theme for our youth service. Please pray that Lord has His way. Once again there has been several ways my mind has gone with this. I'm anxious to see how God takes it.