Merry Christmas from the Nowlings

I'm guilty of not getting Christmas cards out and thus no Nowling letter reviewing 2009. 2009 was a year of much excitement.


God has blessed us all with good jobs in a time when people have been laid off God has taken care of us. Jody and Jessa continue to work at Alaska Airlines. Jenna is still a definite valuable employee at The Hotel Captain Cook (5 star Alaskan hotel), I'm still at The Anchorage Daily News and in May Joleesa came to work at the paper in the classified department.


In January Jody went to Colorado as the evangelist for their men's retreat. He preached at several of the churches in that area. He truly enjoyed the fellowship of the precious brothers and sisters in that region.

In April I had the chance of a life time in going to England on a mission trip. It was an experience filled with many memories and new friends. On the trip almost the whole team got sick and whatever we had it passed through the churches that we visited but fortunately our brothers and sisters still love us. The Lord bless wonderfully and hopefully they are reaping some results from the teams work.

Upon my return we went full swing into getting ready for camp with Griffins as our evangelist and the Anders as our guest AND the excitement of Jessa's wedding. It was such a pleasure to have Brother Tim, Sister Sharon, and Victoria in our home. We shared so much together and then to have them be a part of this big day. Sharon played the piano and sang and Victoria was one of the flower girls for Jessa's wedding. What a beautiful wedding it was. I know as girls we dream of our wedding at a very young age. I don't know if this was all that Jessa dreamed of but it was a beautiful and LOVE prevailed both in the form of the love between Jessa and Levi AND the love of the Lord. We were privileged to have not only the Griffins and the Anders with us but I am so thankful that my mother-in-law, my dad, my brother Kelly, and my nephew B.J. were all able to share in this special day. Along with sharing this special day, they were able to share Alaska with us. My dad is going blind and I'm so glad he had enough eye sight to enjoy the beauty of Alaska.

Shortly after Jessa and Levi's wedding we received an announcement that Joleesa is pregnant. This is always a life changing experience but for Joleesa, God is making her into HIS young lady. The baby's daddy, Dallas is still very much in her life. He's a good young man but doesn't know Christ as his personal Saviour so we covet your prayers for him and for Joleesa's future. We'll be welcoming a new granddaughter on March 13th (but I think she'll come early). It has been quite the experience watching our little girl becoming a mother.


I believe it was in August we had the privilege of having Keven Lewis from Pueblo, Co hold a weekend revival for us. Keven is like family to us as we pastored him and his brother and sisters when they were teenagers. He was a great blessing to us and once again it was fun to share Alaska with him. Hopefully some day his wife and children will be able to come for a visit as well.

Jenna has been had a year with a camera forever in her hands as she found herself being able to put her passion for photography into use. Weddings, baby bumps, family, friends and Alaska memories have been caught through the skills of Jenna's eye for photography. I am so proud of how she is using this God given skill. Also, Jenna recently accepted God's calling on her life not be a teacher like she had thought, but acknowledged and accepted that God has called her to preach.

Then December brought another exciting announcement. Levi and Jessa are expecting their first child! Can it get any better!!!!

A wedding, and two grandchildren in the year that Jody and I turned 50 made for a year of all years. 50 is a 1/2 century, the year of Jubilee and we are so blessed to have our children near and serving God and growing. We covet your prayers for 2010 and the babies that will be entering the world as well as the lives that have been changed.

Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year to all of our dear family and friends across the world.

Totally Exhausted

I should be wrapping gifts, Christmas shopping or making out my Christmas cards but I'm too exhausted. Friday night and Saturday morning and afternoon was spent shopping for Christmas. Christmas gifts, youth Christmas party and our Christmas dinner. Then the youth Christmas party in which I spent big bucks on a gingerbread house (which I thought was 3 houses but it was 3 ways of decorating)for everyone to decorate. We decorated ornaments first. Which was fun but took longer than we thought it would Then we started the gingerbread house, we didn't have enough time to wait for it to set up (I know I should have read the directions before, ugh). So as we tried to put it together we were getting frustrated and by now we're tired and some had petered out on us. So then we went ahead and did our Chinese gift exchange (for the record, I like secret Santa 10x better), went back to the gingerbread house only to decide it's going to have to set over night. I have no idea when we'll get back to it. I'm afraid it was money wasted.

Then Sunday morning got up and made the jello, headed to the church, came back from church where Jody, Jenna and Joleesa were awesome really stepped in and helped even under my stressing. Jody worked until 5:30 am too, so he had very little sleep. Getting the food ready wasn't the problem, it was figuring how to keep it warm and transported to the church (next year it's going be at our place even if it means setting up a table in the living room). We got it done and I had 2 crock pots, a rice cooker to keep the potatoes warm, jello and Waldorf salad in ice cream bucket and Tupperware. I brought my nice glass dishes with and transferred them. We had so much stuff and I was hurting so bad already and Jody was already exhausted, Joleesa and Jenna were limited on how much they could carry but the Lord knew and He sent Matt to load the cars and then Tim and his uncle were waiting to set up the church. We kept telling them they weren't suppose to do anything this was for them, but they insisted and I am so grateful as I was getting to the end of my strength. I planned to decorate the tables like gifts with white table cloths, red ribbon down the middle and across one end with a big red bow. I wasn't sure how it would look but it looked really cool. Then I had gotten striped candy cane like pillar candles on mirrors to go across the ribbon. A little extra was the mint peppermint Andes candy that I was going to put in a dish but decide to scatter along the ribbon too. Finish that with red plates and napkins, clear cups and silverware. The finish product turned out better than I thought. The three guys were great at decorating the tables. I had told Tim's Uncle Tom how to fold the napkins and put the plastic silverware out and he said he could handle. He got it all done and I was looking at it and he had the knife and forks in the wrong place. I was standing looking at it (I think I may have been on the cell phone) and I was trying to decide whether to say anything to him when he asked if he did it right. I said not quite and I switched them. He laughed and made some comment about how he had no idea and I told him I was trying to decide whether to say anything. He was awesome. After having to send Matt for more punch and Jody for butter as I forgot my crystal dish that I had washed and put fresh butter in on the counter, ugh, we were finally able to eat. Ham potatoes, green beans, strawberry applesauce jello, Waldorf salad, honey wheat buns, pickles, olives and cherry delight for dessert. Then good old Uncle Tom and Tim start picking up (after having come around with the coffee pot). I had found information on the various general Christmas traditions and had each one read the tradition and then share a personal tradition (there are some interesting traditions out there)mingled between were Christmas Carole's. The Peter boys sang "We Three Kings" where I'm sure the floor vibrated by their awesome bass voices. Joleesa and I sang "Silent Night", as well as congregation Carole's. A 94 year old lady who's been coming lately played the piano while we all cleaned up. The guys loaded the cars, Matt and Nathan helped unload and we went to bed with a mess in our house, our bodies worn out, physically exhausted but our spirits great as we think of how good God is because He has blessed us with such precious people. We had 14 people. We had six missing and we pray God will bless them with a blessed Christmas and we hope they all know how much we love them. By 9:30 pm I think we all were in bed. I know I was.

Thus tonight it's just relaxing as Jody cleaned the house and is now out with Jenna for her company Christmas party with steak and shrimp. Jenna asked if I wanted to go and I asked if she'd like it if her dad went and he was thrilled to. So he looked sharp in his black suit, red shirt with black, red and gray tie and her beautiful in black and deep purple dress on a night out with her dad.

Grandma x 2

I know I just posted but this was must. In my year of Jubiliee I am not going to be a grandma just one time over but I'll be a grandma x 2. Jessa and Levi are expecting in July. Joleesa and Jessa are only 4 months a part. God is good.

A Great Start to my 50th Year

There's a book out there called the Language of Love (or something like that). It talks about how different people are when it comes to the language of love. Whether they're one of words, of actions, gifts, etc. Not that long ago Jessa and I were discussing which language we speak. Everyone is so different. Some, words are enough. Others like to have something done for them and others like gifts. I'm a gift person. In saying that it makes me sound shallow but I hope that's not the case. I love taking the time to find the perfect gift (or card) for a person. I can shop for days for one person in hopes of finding that "special" gift for them. It doesn't mean it's something they've asked for either. It's something that I listen to them in and try to dig into their personality and find that "special UNIQUE" gift that they will love AND will truly surprise them. I like the same in return. It's not a matter of the cost, the size, etc. It's a matter of KNOWING me! My girls did great this year. First Jenna. She is one that gets gifts for people way in advance and can't stand to wait to give it to them so gives it right away. She bought mine several weeks ago but resisted and didn't give it to me until last night. I've said how for many years when I was in college and as young adult my mom (and mother-in-law) bought me things to decorate the house with. Then it stopped for various reasons but I've been saying I'd like some new things but can't justify it. She listened and bought me BEAUTIFUL salt/pepper shakers in a holder that are deep red with pointsettas (matches my dining room table settings) and elegant pine cone candle holders.

Joleesa comes in last night with my gift but won't let me open it. This morning when I pull it out of the bag, she's got the tissue paper rubber band around the gift so I couldn't even snoop (bummer). She tells me there's a card (she doesn't usually do cards). I open the card, and my little girl shares her heart to mother in such a way any mother would weep. Then I open the gift and it's a music box (like I've always wanted but never told them because I wanted them to WANT to give it to me) that says "MOTHER - My heart is filled with love & appreciation for your guidance, support & inspiration. The Lord bless you and keep you. Numbers 6:24" This could not have been a better gift for Joleesa to give in her whole life, but most importantly at this time of her life. Also she had a yellow coffee cup that says "There's no love like Grandmas". Not a big screaming of being a grandma but a quiet celebration of it.

Then I get to church and our young church sings Happy Birthday to me. And you have to realize, I usually lead the singing...everyone started singing, in their own key and to a certain extent their own version. It was like about 14 individual songs of happy birthday. It was awesome.

Then I get home, and Levi gives me Jessa's and his gift. Now since they've got married they've gotten about 20 beautiful quilts that I've coveted and begged for (I believe his aunt has made some of them). They gave me the one that matches our bedroom with burgundy and green. Jody is going to take the quilt my sister made us probably about 20+ years ago and get it mended and dry cleaned and then pack it away for safe keeping.

As far as what Jody got me, we don't buy for each other on our birthdays, we just are allowed to go out and get something we want. Although I didn't do it with the intent of it being my birthday, but I found the movie "Newsies" and so today we sat back and watched it.

Then I received a phone call from Minnesota...as I answered it I hear the whole Thompson family singing happy birthday to me. One by one they wished me a happy birthday. The best wish was from Dorn...he wanted to send me a cane (Dorn I'll get one and use it on you the next time I see you). Mitzi then shared with me how Dorn was sharing with his family his first memories of me. They were all precious. Thompsons if you're reading this...what you did will be one of my greatest memories.

Top all of this with all the birthday wishes from around the world (England friends too) on Facebook. It has been great.

I laid in bed this morning asking Jody if we could just skip today. As I can't believe I'm 50. That was my parents. Christ was going to come back before I ever reached this age. But it's here and 50 is the year of Jubilee and with becoming a grandma (that just still seems so weird)it truly will be that for me.

The day is still not over. But it sure has been a good one. I thank God for my dear family and friends at home, at church and around the world. I am truly blessed.

What a Week and it's only Wednesday

Well I got released from the criminal trial today. So I won't be a juror on this case. I've got mixed emotions about that. It was a case of a young man with charges of murdering a teenage girl back in 2007 when attending a party with underage drinking. I truly think I didn't get selected due to my working at the newspaper even though I knew nothing about the case. I don't read the newspaper. It's not my thing, and seeing as I work in advertising if I see one my ads messed up on a Sunday in particular, it makes me dread even more going in to work. And some times ignorance is bliss when my advertisers complain about the editorial.

When I got back to the office Joleesa wasn't feeling well. She was having severe cramping. First it was coming and going and then she sat at my desk for about 20 minutes with severe cramping and her face was so flushed I got on the phone to her triage nurse, who wasn't going to have her come in for 2 1/2 hours, and told her my concerns. She then she had me bring her to the hospital maternity triage. As we watched the machine she was having some major contractions. It turns out she was dehydrated. Fortunately it didn't go beyond the contractions. But after 3 hours at the hospital and 3 hours of jury duty and jury duty yesterday, I had to work late. A different kind of stress that's for sure.

Fortunately I don't have jury duty tomorrow. I have to call tomorrow night for Friday and then I'm done. Yes. It's been an interesting experience.

I can't wait for Friday.

Jury Duty

This weekend I turn 50 years old. I almost made it 50 whole years without doing jury duty. Almost as today my number was called along with 600 others. Once you get there you are no longer a number they actually refer to you by your name. I was in the first group of 50 plus potential jurors sent to a court room. From there I became a part of the first group of 14 potential jurors. The DA spent 1 hour asking questions of individuals. I was only the only individual that didn't get questioned. Kind of strange. Tomorrow the defending attorney ask questions. This is really scary for me. I have said I NEVER wanted to do jury duty as I am so afraid of being a part of possibly making a mistake and putting an innocent person away. Then I get called to this case. A serious criminal case. You sit there looking at the defendant. As much as I haven't wanted to do this, I kept feeling such a drawing in my spirit that God wants me on this one. If I could give you some details I know many of you would understand where I'm coming from. As I sat there listening to the charges while looking at the person I realized this was real life not television. My stomach churns at the seriousness of it. If I get selected as a juror it will be a 3 week case. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursday 8 am to 1:30 pm and Wednesdays all day until December 23rd. I get paid from my job but I need to go in every day and cover things that my co-workers can't. It'll make for a very busy December, but my evenings and weekends will be free until the deliberations. The whole process is very interesting. The attorneys are quite young and it was evident that the DA was quite nervous. Some times the jesting was border on irritating when you consider the seriousness of the case. I couldn't help but think if I was the defendant and the people that held so much of my future in their hands was joking around; I really wouldn't be a happy camper. But then again I've never been around a possible criminal before.

Bottom line, I need your prayers. If I get selected, I believe this will be one of the scariest if not THE scariest thing I've done. I truly want to serve the Lord in this a very new role for me.

Growing Pains

Our family is feeling the growing pains as we go into the holidays. Marriage for Jessa means she will be starting her own traditions. With Joleesa expecting her mind is on her baby. We have a son-in-law and our granddaughter's daddy/Joleesa's boyfriend to add into our celebrations. We had everyone here for Thanksgiving. PTL Dallas came, stayed and visited (sucking on a pink pacifier while watching movies ~ grinning and shaking head ~I'm glad he felt comfortable enough to goof off). It was a good Thanksgiving but it was difficult for me to figure out what our three grown girls roles were suppose to be on Thanksgiving. Unfortunately they're not ones to define them on their own. Well maybe they did; no longer kids so I'm not to tell them what to do but they're not ones to just pitch in. Maybe because in the past I've made them feel like if they didn't do it my way it was wrong. That was never my intention. I guess I just hoped there were some things that I've done over the years that they liked enough to do it because their mom did it. Jody fit into his role perfectly as he goofed off at the table keeping everyone at ease.

Now as we go in the Christmas season I'm feeling the growing pains even greater. The shopping is quite the challenge but add to that to having two adult girls in our home that would like to have a home of their own to be decorating puts a subdued excitement on it. See the three girls taste is as different as their personalities. Jessa loves the rustic, old fashion Christmas decorations and is thrilled to be able to decorate her place to that theme. Jenna is the more modern, while Joleesa seems to be the more traditional. I am one that doesn't mind CHANGE when it comes to decorating. I'm ok with whatever they want to do. I just want them to come together and enjoy doing it and enjoy doing it together. My days of refereeing SHOULD be over but it doesn't seem to be. Mom the peacemaker is still my major role. Thus taking away some of the fun.

I'm sitting here in the living room with baby stuff in the dining room next to an undecorated Christmas tree and a few decorations sitting around; we need to bring the rest of the Christmas stuff up. We all want everything to be decorated but no one seems to be motivated enough to do the heavy work that comes with it. Jody works weekends while I work the week days making it very difficult for the two of us to do it. I don't have the strength to do it myself so we'll see how long it takes to all come together.

I know the growing pains are only just beginning. I also know that they're not a bad thing it's just another thing for me to find my way through. My apologies for the melancholy spirit. I'll work through it. Lord help me find my way as only You can do.

Dinner and shower

Let's see last Friday Micah and Megan, a young couple from our church had Brother Nowling and me over for dinner. Other than Jessa and Levi we haven't been over to anyone's house to dinner since moving here. We're the ones having people over. They out did themselves. It was better than some of the fanciest restaurant's. We had steak and scallops. I've never had scallops as it's seafood and I don't like seafood usually so I won't spend the money to ever try it, because in my mind I won't like it. Micah did a Mediterranean marinate in it and it was AWESOME. We had to laugh because he said he spent the day trying different recipes before he settled on that one. It was good. We hand Quinoia, which we also had never had before but both of us loved and Brother Nowling kept hounding me to get the recipe so this weekend I'm sure I'll be picking up some. We had asparagus with a mushroom sauce over it and then stuffed tomatoes. Dessert was homemade apple crisp. The whole meal was great. The two of them worked together in the kitchen and there wasn't any part of it that didn't turn out. We enjoyed visiting with just the two of them also. Usually there's others around. I know I told them before but I want to tell them publicly on my blog Micah and Megan thanks so very much. That was very special for us and meant a lot to us.

Saturday was our youth Bible study at Tim and Larry's and we had a good turn out and a great Bible study. Then Sunday morning Jenna asked if I wanted to teach the youth if there weren't anyone for the adult class. I love teaching our youth. They all really get involved and I love it. Sunday night was VLB's and the Lord really blessed.

Now for the shower...I decided to do Joleesa's baby shower early so she would know what she needed and have time to plan financially for things AND Christmas. So several weeks ago Jenna made the invitations and we sent them out to the coworkers at the newspaper, church people, her friends from when she worked at McDonalds, Target, and Captain Cook Hotel. By Monday before it looked we would have about 30 people attending and I was freaking out. The day of we had some cancellations and I was ok with it. Because it was a work night (because Jessa didn't USUALLY work Tuesdays) I decided I would fix tacos for everyone. One of the ladies brought taquitos and jalapeno poppers and another gal from work made mini cupcakes for me (and she wound up being sick and couldn't come but made sure I got the cupcakes). Jessa brought the chips and did dip. It turned out we only had 13 in attendance but it was good party. Jenna had taken the day off and finished up the cleaning and added some more decorations. She made a great diaper cake and put up pregnancy pictures up around the cake. As people came in I encouraged them to eat and then we started the games. We had a total of 5 games. "My water broke" where they melted the ice cube and got the pacifier out. The Wright game where a story was read and the prize was passed around going right and left as the story used those words. Naming the items on the tray with tiebreaker of describing what Joleesa had on. The pin game where they couldn't say "baby" or "Joleesa" or they'd lose their pacifier off their pin. That became really tough as I had them o around the room and introduce themselves and how they knew Joleesa. The string game where they cut off a piece of yarn the length that they thought would go around Joleesa's baby belly. And then those that brought diapers put their name in for a drawing. It was fun and went well. Then she opened her gifts. She got some great gifts. She could mark several "needs' off her list BUT she's grounded from buying more clothes in the 0-3 month size. The shower ended with Jenna giving the grandmother's a picture of the baby's parents. A b&W picture that she took of Dallas and Joleesa that was she printed out and framed. It was a great end.

It still seems so seril that there's going to be baby in the house. That I'm going to be a grandma.

This weekend is our youth activity. Jenna's in charged and we're having a picture scavenger hunt (fitting) and then coming back to our place for home made pizza.

So every week is something and I'd not have it any other way.

What's Been Happen'

It's been a while since I've posted because not a lot of things going on here. October was a good month at work. As a whole the advertising had the best month they've had in a very long time. We actually beat budget which maybe only occurred once all year. AND I made "Big Bear" (sales person of the month)which also it had been a very long time (a year ago September actually; actually I won for September). I was totally shocked and everybody loved the shock expression. Joleesa had a good October too.

Two weeks ago Sunday I went to Bethel and covered their morning service in Brother Grant's absence. I stayed with Sister Connie Peter and I enjoyed my time with her and Isaiah and Sarah came over Saturday evening and we played aggravation with Ernie and her older foster kids. Oh my it's been a long time since I've been around kids. You actually look away for a moment and one or another is cheating. Oh but wait a minute I think I've known of some adults that are like that ~ smile. That Sunday night we had an evangelistic service and Brother Nowling said he wanted me to lead an extended time of worship. At first it was really tough for my spirit was feeling heavy but we came to a place of a true HOLY worship and it was great. I so love to worship the Lord. We get so caught up in asking the Lord for things all the time, to lose ourselves in His love, bringing you to that holy place with you and Him is awesome. That's what it was like that night.

Things have slowed down for November at work though. We have Joleesa's baby shower next Tuesday. It looks like there will be approximately 20 people at the shower. Between church, her former co-workers and current ones. When I first told her how the rsvp's were coming in her response was "wow, it'll make up for my graduation open house". She had only two people come to graduation open house. Isaiah Peter came from Bethel and then one of her co-workers from McDonalds. We had been here only a year, but still it was sad because we really thought some people would show and they didn't. She never let on to her disappointment as the girls and the two guys went off and found somethng to do. But three years later she showed me really how much it did affect her. Any way, it's on a Tuesday night right after work so I'll be doing tacos. One of our co-workers are going to make mini-cupcakes for the shower, while another one is going to make taquitos. Though these kind of things are not my forte, I know there's a lot of things she needs and these people want to help her and I hope to make it fun. I still have struggles that go on within me over the circumstances but there's a baby girl going to be coming into the world and I want Joleesa and her to know they both are loved.

Thanksgiving is going to be even more exciting for us this year. I am thrilled to have Levi be with us. Then we'll have Matthew Peter joining us at our table as he's not able to go open AND please help me pray, I've invited Joleesa's boyfriend Dallas to join us. He has not committed. It would mean so much to all of us for him to be present. We really don't know this young man and yet he is a big part of Joleesa's life. So please help me pray.

Obviously after Thanksgiving the Christmas preparations begin. We have our youth Christmas party. Jessa has a women's tea planned, and then Brother Nowling and I'll be putting on our Christmas dinner again.

Then Tim Osborne is going to be getting married January 2nd so I want to do a little shower for her. So in the midst of Christmas celebrations I've decided the best way to do it is to take her to her favorite restaurant and do a small shower for her. I want her to know that we are very much looking forward to her becoming a part of us.

In no time at all after Christmas it'll be baby time with Joleesa and Megan both being do in March. Megan has chosen to have her baby shower after the baby comes, when her parents are here and have it be a part of the babies dedication. So before all that takes place, I'm going to make a trip to Minnesota to see my dad for his birthday and hopefully before that make a trip to Colorado in January. Brother Nowling wants to go to men's retreat and I'll probably go and spend time with the women. So to say the least life will be busy going forward.

Oh did I tell you we've already started our Christmas shopping. I love the fact that I started already as it makes it so it's not so stressful. I love being able to take the time and look for the perfect gifts and I have to say this year has been the hardest so far seeing all the changes my family's experienced this year. Snow on the ground makes it seem right.

So now that I've rambled. Let's see how long it'll be until the next time ~ smile.

Ummmmm

Not a whole lot to blog about. This week has been a week of feeling a heavy burden for so many people. It seems like on every turn someone is suffering physically. Jeremy and Heather Adams have been hit with so much but I know that God has been there for them. Then there's different ones at work, friends around the country that have been need in prayer. I thank God that there is power in prayer. So many times we feel ALL we can do is pray. Do we realize PRAYING is the best thing we CAN do.

There are a lot of things on my heart and mind that I long to share but I know I can't because though there are those out there that would understand and encouraging, there is always that don't. Don't you ever wish you could ever just say what you want to say and not worry about others. Some day....

Tomorrow I'm headed to Bethel to preach as Brother Grant is in Idaho for their convention. I'm looking forward to visiting with our Saints in Bethel. It's probably going to be pretty cold as today the wind made it really chilly here so I'll be pulling out the winter coat and wearing sweatshirts and sweaters. Remember me in your prayers if you would. I want to be a blessing to the Bethel people.

I'm getting a Granddaughter

Yep, another girl. Today Joleesa had her ultrasound. My how advanced those things have become. And the little one wanted us to know she was girl as she was positioned perfectly with her little legs up for us but she also showed she was embarrassed as she had her arm over her face. It was so obvious and cute, especially when they did it in 3D. Jessa and Jenna got to be in the room with us along with Dallas of course and his mom came too. They were all pretty confident it was a boy. Joleesa had our co-workers assuring her it was a boy as well as the customers that came in. I wouldn't make a guess as that's truly all it is a GUESS. It was fun watching the faces of everyone in the room. The ultrasound doctor wasn't the friendliest man in the world but the first thing he did was find out the sex so we didn't have to wait. This is one excited grandmother (that sounds so weird).

I had and have so many emotions going through me right now that I can't even begin to put them into words. As a mother you take so many things/people into consideration when thinking about things. I am so thankful that God is control. So far we know everything is showing we will have a healthy granddaughter. Her name (at this moment, who knows if it might change ~ grin) will either be Savannah Lynn or Isabella Lynn. I'm thrilled with "Lynn" as that's my middle name. It's fun listening to people give their thoughts on which one. Dallas wants Isabella, I think Joleesa likes Savannah. Jessa and Jenna like Isabella (I think) but Jessa had a good idea, wait until she's born and see if she looks like a Savannah or an Isabella.

On another note; my heart and mind has never been off Heather Adams during this time. We are waiting for a miracle and I know that God can give it to them. Last night in service we had prayer for her and Brother Nowling had told me our Bible Study was going to be on the priest's ephod and going on into the putting on the "garments of praise and of salvation". As I was asking the Lord to show me what songs to lead I truly felt Him guiding me to songs of praise. As I was leading, singing, and praising Him; Heather's name and face was there constantly be lifted up through the praise in my heart and mind. I was reminded of a time Sister Tami Adams shared how she was really sick and crying out to God to touch and God told her to praise Him and as she praised Him she received His healing touch. I praise the Lord for breathing life into Heather. For being with her through this. I know He has a plan for her and her family and we're going to watch it unfold before us.

In other news we had our minister's convention last week and it was good. Due to some misunderstanding we didn't have a guest evangelist. Everyone dig a great job on their boosts. Megan had us laughing as she shared her childhood experience of harvesting ocra (and I actually learned some things) and she used that as her analogy. Jenna did great with her cpma boost reminding us that Christ sees His bride as Perfect. Levi preached a message that got right to the point about being used of God. I preached the Saturday evening message on "despise not thy youth". Though several things were pointed out the main thing was that we need more Elijah's and Elisha's.

Well I'm going to go get some supper and go shopping with Joleesa for GIRL things.

For Jessa

Jessa is telling me I need to blog so she has something to read at work...I love you Jessa.

I haven't blogged as there hasn't been too much new to blog about. Ever since getting back from the assembly and then Juneau I have been swamped at work. More accurately put I feel like I have been drowning. All newspaper businesses is full of deadlines. With the economy in a down slope we are trying all kinds of things to help the businesses to continue advertising so they can still grow their business and also ours. The last two months have very slow on my desk but this month it seems like it's raining down ads. I have to watch that I don't complain as this is a good thing. Couple this problems with our press causing my clients ads to run dark (thus having to gravall and give credits) and with yahoo sales that are tedious and a moving target of inventory, there have been days that I've had things given to me and said I need it before the end of day. Friday our Financial analyst that's office is right next to mine, came out and told me to remember to breathe. I have been going 100 miles an hour plus and by the time I get home the stress release takes several hours. I'd like to say next week should be better but I can't as my co-worker is on vacation and I have to cover his desk while still dealing with my own work. BUT God ALWAYS gets me through.

We have minister's convention this next weekend. So I also try to pull the state financial report together (thus why everyone else is taking their Sunday nap and I'm not as I need to work on that as soon as I get done with post). I have my ABM boost to pull together. God has put something on my heart that may seem quite different but I know that if God is in it it will minister. Then shock of all shocks, Brother Grant put me on to actually preach the Saturday evening message. "Let no man despise thy youth". Someone said but you're not a youth...oh Lord why did you give me this burden for youth so late it my life. I've tried to lay it down and relinquish it for someone else to pick up the mantel because my body is just not allowing me to do all that I need it to, but God WILL NOT release me. As I prepare for this message I truly feel the Lord is so many directions. I desire God to use me to minister as He desires to through me.

Friday night I would not allow myself do anything but relax as well as yesterday morning and afternoon. I went out to eat with Brother Nowling only to have him go down a one way the wrong way. He caught himself right away and was backing back into the road he turned off and it was a police car that let him in and then proceeded to pull him over as well as have another officer pull up. He told the officer the truth and said he just spaced out which road he was turning on and PTL they checked his license and told us to be careful.

Yesterday I did some shopping, nothing major just felt good to get out. Last night I worked on the bulletin, the monthly state books, played a game of bowling on wii and went to bed but was up until the wee hours of the morning praying for one of our young people who was in desperate need of God's intervention.

This morning we had a good SS (I really miss teaching the youth though), worship and message. Now I must get the state finance report done. If I don't do it today I'll be having to do it in the evenings after hard days at work when I'm brain dead. So until the next time.

Wisdom

I sure know why Solomon asked for wisdom when he could have asked for anything. It is the most needed attribute (if that's the word to use) ever in the Christian life. Wait a minute, even if you're not a Christian, wisdom is needed. As parents, as adults. In Christian service it is a must. I so need wisdom. It's the cry of my heart constantly these days, for home, church and work. For LIFE in general. Please help me pray for wisdom?

PTL it's Friday.

Our Anniversary

Brother Nowling and I went to Juneau for our anniversary. It's amazing how, though we've been married 28 years the need for the two of us to get away alone is so much needed. It was a great time, beside the dreary weather. Our flights went well and when we first got there seeing he worked all night before and we couldn't check into our b&b until 3 pm we went downtown, he parked and I walked the shops as I was also making contacts for the paper on before of our Alaska visitor's guide. A cruise ship had come in and the shops were busting at the seams, especially the ones that 60% - 80% off (I got a few great buys too) end of the season clearance. There's all kinds of languages all around me. I walked a long way and when I call Brother Nowling to pick me up his phone went to voicemail (ugh). My feet were killing me and after 3 tries of getting him to answer I started walking. It turned out the last time he talked to me, when he closed his phone it turned it off. We then went to a nice yogurt shop that had great soup and sandwiches and was own by Christians. From there we went to our B&B. We had such a great experience at the B&B in Valdeze I chose this over a nice hotel. Ugh, we felt like we were in a stranger's home. Don't get me wrong they were friendly enough (actually she talked non-stop until we couldn't get a word in edge wise), but our room was across from theirs. The last B&B the guest rooms were on their own floor with their own entrance. I don't know it was just more awkward this time. We felt like we had to be careful not to offend them. I also felt almost claustrophobic as she collects precious moments statues and has over 2000 of them throughout her house. In our room alone I stopped counting at 56. It was a beautiful log house and the walls were so covered with plaques and shelves you lost the beauty of the logs. Any way, we went to our room and I took an hour nap while Brother Nowling slept 3 hours. In the morning they had breakfast for us. She made french toast and eggs. Has anyone heard of spruce tip syrup? She made some, yes from spruce tree needles. It was a different flavor altogether. Not bad. Then we headed back to downtown for me to meet with more businesses and the town was dead. Everything was closed. It was amazing the change overnight because the cruise ship had pulled out. We drove around town and I took down names of businesses for me to call when I got back to the office. We then went to lunch and had some of the best pizza ever at Pizzeria Roma. The service was poor as the waiters were in the kitchen gambling, but the food was delicious. After eating we headed to the Mendenhall Glacier. I had made the statement that all the glaciers were the same, but not so. This one was a gorgeous blue and had a huge waterfall next to it. We went up to the visitor center and technically it closed the day before so it was free and we had the ranger almost to ourselves and I made contacts for our paper with them and we enjoyed looking at the glacier from a higher view as it was built up into the rocks. We then went driving from one end of Juneau to the other. Remember Juneau is surrounded by water, so we drove one way until the road ended and then headed the other way but due to road construction turned around just a couple of miles before it ended. We went to Auke Bay and it was another gorgeous site even in the rain. We stopped at sheep creek, and though we didn't see any sheep we say lots of eagles. I tried to get some good pictures but unfortunately I had some problems but I'll post one of the better ones.

We then headed back to the Hangar restaurant for our anniversary dinner. Juneau doesn't have any "fancy" restaurants just costly ones. We had been told the Hangar had great food and it had a view of the ocean. We made reservations but we got there early so had to wait about 15 minutes. If it hadn't been so dreary out the view would've been nice, it was terribly noisy but the food was absolutely delicious. He had shrimp and I had Parmesan halibut and it was so good. We then did a little more driving around and then headed back to our room. We slept in until 8 am. We had a good breakfast and then decided to take an earlier flight out as it was pouring out. When we got to Anchorage the sun was shining and it was a beautiful autumn day. Levi and Jessa invited us for dinner and we truly enjoyed it.

It was a great time away and I'm thankful we had the time together and I'm really grateful that the newspaper is picking up most the bill of it all too.

Here's few pictures.

About Me

Let me prelude this post with I usually don't bare my soul on my own blog because I don't want to offend, upset, or disappoint anyone. But I haven't blogged for awhile as I need this blog to truly be MY blog and I need to be able to share my heart and so that is what I am going to do.

As I was spending time on flights and airports on my way to IYC I determined in my mind, this assembly was going to be for me. I was going to be praying for me. Seeking answers for me. The first service at IYC found me praying Lord help me to know how to be there for Heather. Then Lord show me how to share this special time with Megan and Micah. Also, Lord I feel like I've gained a son but in gaining the son I've lost a daughter, help me to find my relationship with Jessa. And my prayers continued through the various people that are so much a part of who I am, Jenna, Lord let her find someone (not just a guy) but someone here to share life. Josh and Jackie, oh how I miss them Lord show me how to reach them so they will draw closer to you. Their faces went before my face one at a time Matthew, Tim, Nathan, Larry, Jeremy, all of them one right after another. Lord help me to serve them truly was my prayer. Always hanging over every prayer was Lord give me WISDOM. I found myself feeling like Solomon as more than anything I want wisdom. My love is so great for these souls that God has put in my life that I need wisdom as to know when, what, and how to be what He needs me to be for them.

In every prayer there was one huge plea for wisdom that was on behalf of a new road that I'm having to walk. A road that is filled with huge amount of love for my daughter Joleesa but a cry for wisdom to help me in being the mother to her and a grandmother to the baby she is carrying. Yes. I am going to be grandmother. Not in the way I had ever dreamed of becoming a grandmother, but none the less a grandmother. God forgives the repented heart and forgets. We are to be like Christ. I had to find my way in forgiving as Christ does and I truly have. Many individuals turn away from God and go into sin. Some sin is easy to forget but sometimes God allows that sin to bring good and all life exists only if God allows. As Joleesa has turned her life back to Him and as she finds her way in her walk with Him she now has a child to lead as she walks that walk and I will be right there with her (as will all her family)helping, rejoicing and loving this new life. Life changes around every corner and I committed this road to Christ a looooong time. As I help Joleesa make preparations for this precious little one, my prayer continues to be for wisdom, not only for me, but for mother-to-be Joleesa, along with a strength that will help her in this time that is very joyous but also very challenging. I am already watching her as she looks at life in a whole different way then she ever did before. My ultimate prayer is that this little life will be healthy and be given the opportunity to know the love of Jesus right from the early years.. Joleesa, with God's help, love and wisdom can give that to this child.

Yeah, this assembly was about me finding all that God has for me as person, as a pastor's wife, as a leader in the church, as a wife, as mother but the biggest goal was finding me as a grandmother. I thank my precious Lord and Saviour that He never fails us...Jada Nowling is going to be a grandmother. Wow!!!

It was a glorious assembly where every message spoke to me. I stand in awe at how precious His anointing was and I thank God that He allowed me the privilege to be a part of IYC and the 104th general assembly.

Leaving Tuesday

Well I'm leaving out Tuesday night. I'm flying positive space (secured seat but we pay the taxes. Gift from AK Airlines to employees). I'm hoping to upgrade to first class if a seat is available so I can sleep. I fly to Chicago on the red eye flight, land in Chicago at 8:05 am, leave out at 10 am on US Airways to DC and then DC to Chattanooga to be picked up by the Williams and Sister Debra Perkins will be with them. I'm so ready in spirit to go but I haven't started packing and I'm so physically tired. Brother Nowling leaves out on the red eye on Wednesday red eye (positive space) to Chicago, from Chicago to Charlotte and Charlotte to Chattanooga. Arriving 1/2 hour after Levi and Jessa. They'll drive over to IYC together.

In other news, the bank returned the money to our account that was taken fraudulantly. I don't know what the next step is, we just notice it was returned to our bank account.

Well, I better get packing and I want to try to get to bed early...yeah right.

Sick, long week, check book stolen

Yeah the title sums it up. I have been having terrible headaches and tightness in my chest. My blood pressure's been up and I've been stressed and drowning at work. But today I feel the best I have all week.

I know that's not the part you're wondering about. On Thursdays Brother Nowling does our bills and he called me at working saying I forgot to leave the checkbook for him. I told him I didn't have it. He said he put it in my purse Wednesday night as he was leaving for work so I could have money for the offering. I knew nothing about it and it wasn't in my purse. Levi remembered him doing it too. So we back tracked over all my steps Wednesday night. Going to the church twice, ransacking Jenna's car (I rode home with her) and mine and nothing. So he went to the bank and two checks had been cashed with an individual's name and business on it that we had never heard of. The checks equalled up to over $200. We flagged all the number sequenced checks in that book and put a flag on our account so no checks can go through without us being called and proving ID. He then proceeded to go file a police report, actually two. One for fraud and one for forgery. Had to go back to the bank (after paying $12 for the police reports ~ how wrong is that) and was sent to the fraud department. Then everything started really coming together. The first check was actually cashed Tuesday and the second Thursday at the AK USA bank right across from the church. It wasn't Wednesday night that he put it in my purse it was Sunday. I did take it out and write a check for the offering and as it was VLB service I was at the pulpit and I left it and all my notes on the pulpit. If you remember it was our 1 year anniversary in the building so we took church pictures before church. Jessa had to work late so Jenna took her picture afterward and was going to photoshop her into the picture. I was in the way at the pulpit so I moved leaving everything there and forgetting everything (not even thinking about the checkbook). I received a call Monday from the property manager of the building the church was in asking if we had blocked the door open, let anybody in that we didn't know, or knew if someone had followed us in. After declaring no she told three of the suites had been broken into Sunday night. On Wednesday night Brother Tim mentioned that he had gone over to the Church to pray on Monday and the door was unlocked. Jeremy had locked the door Sunday night, I was standing next to him, he went on a head and I double checked the door just to be safe so I KNOW it had been locked. The property manager told me today when they got the break in call early Monday morning and they checked all the suites ours wasn't locked but didn't show any forced entry like the others. But apparently they got in and took the check book. As far as we know that's all that's missing but we really weren't looking for anything so we'll have to check things out thoroughly this weekend.

So back to the bank, because the person that cashed the checks didn't have an account with AK USA they had to show ID and the bank has driver's license number, name, address and phone number. They're from Wassila (if their ID isn't fake). The bank is confident that they'll be able to re-coup our money and with the police's help catch the woman. Tomorrow morning I have to go to the bank to sign papers as it's my name they forged AND I believe the checks were time stamped so they can pull the surveillance camera's and get a visual as well. So wow...too many thing happening to us that you never thing will happen to you but only on tv or to someone else. In the end though maybe we'll also be able to catch who's been breaking into the building. This is actually the second time in a couple of months.

So it's been a long, sickly and wild week. I need to go return some things to JC Penney, and get some groceries. Tomorrow is a pot luck at our place as it's the Mack's last weekend with us before they head back, hopefully they'll be able to come along with Heather and Jeremy if Heather's feeling up to. I hope every one's praying for precious Heather. She needs a miracle.

Have a great weekend.

Reminiscing

I've been helping my husband clean out the garage and while he laid down for a nap. It dawned on me had been about a year ago that my mom passed away so I decided to look back at my blog and it was a year ago last Sunday. I began to read over the posts from then forward.

This has been a year of loss (my mom) and gains (a son-in-law). It's been a year of heartaches, trials and tests but it's also been a year of triumph and celebration. I looked back on my mom's passing, funeral and then on to the church moving into it's own building (space) On August 24th the church finally had it's only building. It was great step of faith as we took on rent of $1073/month. I was a nervous wreck as to whether we could do this, but knew we needed to and knowing also that God had provided the space. Our people, 95% young adults, have been awesome in their giving. We had a few months that some struggled making their pledges, and though we got behind (the car wash almost got us out of the red). God has helped us. God honors faithfulness.

Then as I continued moving through my blog, on to ministers convention and revival with Byers. I still remember the strong preaching on love. As I moved on I was reminded of the changes at work and then went on through Thanksgiving and Christmas. The new year brought a lot of sharing about Mt Redoubt with March being eruption after eruption to the point that youth convention in Bethel had to be cancelled. Then April brought a once in a life time mission trip to England (I am really looking forward to seeing some of the dear brothers and sisters at the assembly). May brought looking for a place to live and then June actually moving, camp and Jessa wedding.

As I read through my blog though I saw I shared some of the heartaches, I read many posts of how good God was. How God had blessed in our services. How He proved His faithfulness. Even now I have Christian music playing and Pam Thum's song "Life Is Hard (God is Good)" is playing and it really summed up the last 12 months from August 2008 to now.

Lot's of changes still ahead for us. Lot's of trials, tests, joys and triumphs but I'm not in any of it alone. My God is there with me. He truly proves He never leaves us, nor forsakes us.

By the way bloggers, don't forget to blog. It truly becomes a diary of memories of our lives and those we care about. It helps to remind us of the victories along this pilgrimage.

Well I need to go get my husband up from his nap. We're headed to Popeyes for dinner (not my favorite place due to the spiciness but he has been wanting it) and then going to JC Penneys to get a few things we need for IYC and the assembly. Oh, oh, I don't think I told anyone my husband actually gets to go not only to the assembly by IYC. It's really a miracle. We were flying on positive space (secured seats at n/c due to his working at the airlines) but he couldn't find a flight open for the dates for the assembly. His supervisor was helping him look one night and Thursday, Sept. 3rd had one positive space seat open in the early morning but he works Wednesday nights. His supervisor said she would work for him and listed him. He has Thursday and Friday off so it worked perfect. So I fly in Wednesday and the Williams and Sister Perkins will pick me up and we'll be spending Wednesday evening together and head to IYC Thursday morning (I'm taking the red eye flight Tuesday night so I'm trying to get first class so I can sleep.) Jessa and Levi will fly in at 5 pm Thursday night, Jody and 5:30 pm so they'll drive over to IYC together in time for that evenings service. How cool is that. Then Jenna will fly in on Sunday. (Joleesa won't be going this year. Please pray for her. God knows what all she needs.) I'm so looking forward to IYC and the assembly.

Well off to Popeyes. Have a great Sunday everyone.

A Quiet Strength

Our revival is over and Brother Keven Lewis has made it home. We switched flight to an earlier flight as he would have stuck in Portland as the plane was over booked. Flying standby is always a "hold your breath" experience. There were 9 seats open and he got the 9th seat and it was aisle seat at that.

It was so good to have Keven in our home. He is so like family to us as we pastored him when he was in his early teens. He has become a brother to us and an uncle to our girls. When you watch a young person grow up and become an adult and go into the ministry and raise a family in the love of the Lord, you stand in awe at God.

The revival was not a victory shouting revival, but a quiet strength was bestowed by the Word and His Spirit. Our little group here in Anchorage are experiencing trials and tests on all fronts. We needed words of encouragement and strength and that's what was preached and shared. Megan declared that it was like standing out in a gentle rain and allowing it to wash over you, refreshing and cleansing you as it came down. Jessa sang a song Sunday night that added to that refreshment for me, Holy, Holy Holy (by Hillsong). It talked about praising and "adoring" Him. I so want to ADORE Him every day of my life. I want that power of "first love" partnered with "mature love" in my life.

Brother Keven made it obvious he was here for "us" the Anchorage church. His first time in Alaska and time was short. We usually try to do as much sightseeing as possible when we have visitors. Though we did go Beluga Point and Portage Glacier (where he didn't get to see any ice bergs as they were all melted to the point that the water was over the side walk)Sunday we took as a day of rest at home. He did get to see moose, not just one but six when Micah, along with Nathan took him to Flat Top yesterday.

I feel bad that not everyone was blessed as they could've been because they didn't come out. We have had very few revivals here, and this was just a 3 day revival and I wanted to gain from every moment of it. Life gets tough, we need times of revival to see us through. This was revival for US. We now need to move out and with a revival for the community but Lord prepare our people to move beyond and reach out to the world.

Please pray for me today as I am so very tired as I took Keven to airport and didn't get home until after midnight and then had a rough time sleeping. I was already tired and had a hard time staying awake yesterday and today is going to be tougher yet. But I truly can say my Spirit is refreshed.

Revival in the Land of Anchorage Alaska

We're excited for revival. No one realizes how difficult it is to get evangelists to Alaska. When you consider just the travel time let alone the cost, it's not an easy thing. PTL! There has been someone that we have been trying to get to come since we came to Alaska and God has worked it out. It'll only be three nights, but we have a people that don't waste time. They are hungry and ready. The devil's already been fighting so it is just proof that God is going to really move.

Oh I suppose you'd like to know who's coming. Our brother (who is like an uncle to our girls) Keven Lewis. We are so excited. We wish his wife and family could come but they're not able to, but that means he'll have to come again ~ smile.

Please pray that NO ONE is hinder from coming out and that God is allowed the liberty to move. The revival is Saturday, August 15 - Monday, August 17th. So we covet your prayers. He's flying standby so please pray everything goes smoothly with the flights as well.

The Church of God Pirates Out Did Themselves

I know you're saying "huh". We had a car wash today. We asked Matthew Peter to take charge of it for us and he came up with a brilliant (and I mean that seriously) idea to have a theme and have it be pirates. I know, how does pirates fit with church, God, etc. Who cares. It was fun. A couple of weeks a go several of the youth came over and we did homemade pizza for them while they made some pretty cool posters with the "pirate" theme. Then today was the day. We were all praying hard for good weather as this is our raining season and that's about all it's done for a couple of weeks. We woke up to a gray day that quickly turned into a beautiful summer day. We were going to have the car wash in the back parking lot of the building the church is in, which is the door we go in for church BUT the picket there didn't work. Brother Nowling called the maintenance man and he told us we could use any of the spigots and there was up at the front right hand side. This was perfect. We set up our hot dog stand and money booth at the front off a busy road, Northern Lights and washed cars along the side of the building. The plan was to go from 10 am to 2 pm. We were asked to dress up as pirates which all the Peters did an awesome job of (pictures to come probably on Jenna's blog and facebook). Matthew sent pirates Micah and Megan, and then our beloved Timothy Osborne (aka our marketing tool) to the streets with signs. Micah and Megan in their costumes and Tim's non-stop crazy jig (Matthew, Nathan and Jenna also took a turn; even Matt's dog Kershaw was out there with a sign; but the pros were Micah and Tim) they brought the cars in. The goal of the car wash to get our rent fund out of the hole. I didn't remember what that amount needed to be but I had a goal of a profit of a minimum of $200. PTL. 28 cars in 4 hours, hot dogs, chips and soda (one of the businesses came out and bought $20 worth of food for their employees for lunch) brought in $325. After deducting the $58 for the hot dogs, buns and chips (everything else was donated with everyone giving something) we cleared....drum roll please, $267. 21 cars from the street, 7 of our cars and food. It was pretty cool as they washed some pretty nice cars. We charged $5 for the car wash and $4 for the dog/chips/soda. Only 4 of the people actually paid $5 the rest were $7 or more. We had some give $20 and $15. It was funny as the couple with a Corvette gives only $5, but after talking to me and asking what it was going for, he gave another $5.

Without a doubt God is good. Several people told me God had to be in this because of the beautiful weather we had after several days of rain. We were able to share about TCOG quite a bit. Matthew even met TCOGOP man (may have been a minister, I can't remember) that knew him in Bethel.

We had comments about it being a great idea to have a theme, about our "marketing" people on the streets doing such a great job, about loving the hot dogs, it just went really well.

I can't thank our youth enough. We had about 75% participation in the car wash. They sacrifice so much. They donated the stuff for the car wash, their time PLUS most of them pay pledges to make the rent. God has blessed us with great youth and I KNOW God will return back to them ten fold.

Every third Saturday of the month we have a youth activity and a different youth is in charge. August Levi is stepping in for Jeremy as he'll be out of town. He said he would like us to do one more car wash before winter sets in. So Lord willing we'll try it again. What will we do different...our signs will be on cardboard and sticks (as life was tough for them to hold the flimsy poster board), we will get a longer hose and another hose with a splitter, we will bring old towels for drying (they seemed to work best) and I'm not sure what else.

Oh, oh, oh...also the lady that came out to buy for their business said we should something like this more often and I mentioned a bake sale and she LOVED that idea. The doors are opening and I thank God for it.

I need to finish getting ready for youth Bible Study tonight. Yeah, car wash and then several are helping Micah and Megan move, then youth Bible study. A very fulfilling day.

Everyone have a great day in the Lord tomorrow.

Quilt of Holes

A precious sister back in Menomonie sent this to me and I thought I'd share it.



As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls.

Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life.

But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all.

I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the
bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened.

My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.

Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up
their tapestries. So filled their lives had been. My angel looked upon me,and nodded for me to rise.

My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.

And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.

I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light. An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes.

Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes,
creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with
warmth and love in His eyes. He said, 'Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles.

Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you.'

May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing Christ to shine through!

This sums things up for me lately

2 Corinthians 4:7-9

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

Hang on tight as the storms spins around and you feel like your right in the eye of the storm. Then you look around and see several others right in the eye of the storm. You're all bearing your personal pain but you're reaching out to each other. Riding the storm together. Waiting for the storm to calm, but while it is raging allowing God to calm you in the midst of the storm. Then it begins to rock you again and you drop that anchor down in Christ and you know with Him aboard you'll make it and so will everyone else that has their anchor secure in Him.

He truly is "my Rock of Ages" and "my shelter". Though my mind has major arguments with my soul, my heart is settled in Him so my soul will win and I thank my God for the decades that He been with me through the fire and flames. I love Him so much!!!

What an Awesome God we Serve

First He was in our SS class with a very active and personal discussion on sanctification that almost everyone participated in. Then we went from there into a FANTASTIC service as the Lord moved during our worship and the Spirit broke out and moved upon individuals reminding us He's there for us and lifting us from a place of burdens to a place of worship. The guys and gals broke off to pray together. When the ladies got done we began to sing and we watched the Lord move mightily on ALL the men as prayed one for another, linking arms together in a circle (it reminded me of a football huddle) praying for one another and worshipping together. What a glorious to sight to see these young man with pastor broken before God and not embarrassed by it. These are TOUGH guys but they know how to be sensitive before their God.

We had moose roast for dinner and then I went to play frisbee golf with Matthew, Nathan and couple of Matt's friends and one of their wives. It truly was a lot of fun. My body feels so old though. I stopped throwing at the 9th hole as my bad arm was beginning to really hurt and lost what little strength it had. I continued to walk the rugged course though. I enjoyed my time in the sun and with these people. They seemed like real good people.

Then we had another good service and Jessa shared scriptures on being a servant of the Lord's. Brother Nowling then preached the message he didn't get to preach this morning on the covenant. We then had a time of worship in song and a time at the altar.

So to sum it up; my body is old and tired, but my soul and spirit is refreshed and light. Now I'm going to bed as the "tired" has won. I just hope my aching body will allow me to sleep.

Another Beautiful Day in Alaska

It is almost a perfect day here in Alaska. The sun is out and there is a breeze. The skies are still hazy over the mountains due to the 70 or so fires. The air has been so heavy it has been difficult to breathe. But all and all still a gorgeous day.

Have a wonderful weekend with a Glorious Lord's day tomorrow.

Interesting analytics

June 7-July 7 (Cool but scary)

United States 706 (only 13 states haven't been to visit me)
2. Canada 9
3. South Korea 2
4. Malaysia 2
5. Italy 1
6. Romania 1
7. Spain 1
8. Australia 1
9. France 1
10. Indonesia 1
11. Japan 1
12. Brazil 1
13. United Kingdom 1
14. Israel 1

It looks like the out of the county ones came either during Jessa's wedding time or my 4th of July Valdez trip

Our Trip to Valdez = AWE!!!!

We had a glorious trip to Valdez. It seems like forever since the two of us have truly been alone to talk with no people, no computer and no tv to distract. We left at noon on Friday and were headed to Kenny Lake (outside of Copper Center) to a B&B. The drive there was beautiful and we stopped several times for pictures, bathroom breaks and souveniers(I got this carved bear holding salt & pepper shakers that is so cute). We got to the Copper Moose B&B at 5:15 pm (I had figured between 5 & 6 pm so perfect). The place was a gorgeous log cabin. C.D. the host took us downstairs to choose a room and then showed us around. It was a 3 story log home with the downstairs having 4 guest rooms and 2 bathrooms. The main floor the kitchen, living room, dining room and a bathroom. The loft was the where the owners bedroom, bath and office was. The carvings the decor, the deck, the view, the hosts, couldn't have been any better. Jody had worked the night before so after the long drive he wanted to sleep for a couple of hours. C.D. and Kathy offered for me to stay upstairs and visit with them. Then as they began to get their grandson some moose stew they insisted I have some. It was delicious. I visited with these two as if I had known them forever. We talked about the Lord even. Then their guests from Scotland came in and oh how I loved visiting with them. When I went to London, I was only 6 hour drive from them (that would've been so cool). Then I played bowling on the WII with Jude their grandson. Then some more guests arrived. I got Jody up and then several of us went on walk down a trail that led to a gultch that was beautiful. It was just a great day. Weather wise it would rain, be sunny, sprinkle, pour, and more sun. We actually got up to 80 degrees. God was so good.

This morning we got up at 7 am, showered, and went up for coffee, french toast, bacon and fruit. The food was great and what made it even neater was sitting with all the guests enjoying it. We left at 9 am and then headed to Valdez. Oh what a beautiful drive. The weather was perfect again. I stood in AWE at God. As we saw glaciers, waterfalls, mountains, canyons. Every corner was a different view. It was so glorious. We got to Valdez at about 11 am. Drove down Allison Point in hopes of seeing bears. We saw the ocean, ships, seals, a sea lion. Once again another glorious view. We then ate at this little shack called Old Towne after asking a young couple at a coffee shop that argured between them as to what place would have the best burgers, and the young man won and he was sooooo right. The best burger and the best halibut & chips. We then headed out at 1 pm to head home and got home at 6:15 pm. We stopped just a couple of times coming back so we made great time so that we can be ready for church tomorrow. Here's some pictures, though good, it really doesn't show how big and glorious the sights were. Everyone have a great time with the Lord tomorrow.


The Copper Moose B&B ~ I recommend it to anyone headed to Valdez



The view from the B&B


Our room

Allison Point and the Prince William Sound (part of the ocean). At one time we counted 12 seals out there feeding but my camera would snap fast enough for me to catch them when they came up.


Keystone Canyon


Worthington Glacier

Driving to Valdez over the 4th

I'm excited for just my husband and I to get away over night. We were going to fly to Kodiak (although he wasn't to anxious to FLY) but AK Airlines cancelled one of the flights on the 4th so we would just get there to only turn around and come back. Don't think so. Some day before we leave Alaska I want to see Kodiak.

So we went back to our original plan to drive to Valdez. The problem was he has to work Thursday night so he has to sleep in the morning. It's about a 6-8 hour drive depending on how much stopping you do. He said he'd still like to take a road trip so I got online to see what towns were part way there. We are actually going to stay at the Copper Moose B&B in Copper Center. I've never stayed at a B&B and I've really wanted to. The chain hotels were booked and Copper Center is about 2 hours from Valdez. We'll get up and a full spread breakfast with blueberry pancakes and all and head to Valdez (this part of the drive is the best so I've been told). We'll get Valdez probably in time to get lunch and make the 6-8 drive back to Anchorage as to get ready for church Sunday. People at work on one hand think we're insane but at the same time helped me to figure out how to make it all work.

I'm excited to spend some quality time with my husband, enjoy a road trip, get to stay at a B&B, and see another part of this gorgeous state that I can't get enough of.

I've been told by Mrs Stephens that I need to Blog!

The past two weeks I have been in recovery mode from moving, camp and the wedding. Creating a new "NORMAL" is what I've been doing in these two weeks. Being in a new house, having our oldest married, and some other changes.

Looking back at camp...we had a 12 car caravan going 3 hours to Sterling AK for camp. We had all 5 of my family cars being used as to cover all the visitors that flew in. We took our time allowing photography ops along the way as we had so many visitors from the lower 48 and this is a beautiful drive. We usually get to the campground about 5 pm, have supper and then start service about 7:30 pm. I believe we got into camp about 6ish. While the guys were unloading the vehicles of the food and luggage, Brother Nowling and I went and checked out rooms as the dorms had beds all switched around. We were able to put all the older couples in individual rooms with king beds. My mother-in-law who is 83 years old was there and it was her first time ever at camp, so I was glad we were able to give her her own room with a king size bed. She slept well. The challenge with these beds was that I had brought bedding for double, king and twin beds. I had no king size bedding. But between sleeping bags and flat sheets we made it work. Upstairs on both girls and boys sides there was one room that now had a double bed and bunk beds so that helped with the ones that had little kids. Spaghetti dinner was well on to completion when we got back to the dining hall. I believe service started at 8 pm. As tired as everyone was from having company, state convention and traveling, everyone got right into the service. It was great having Sister Amy Anders there to do the worship. Though Sister Griffins messages was short it spoke and the Spirit moved and the altar was full.

Monday was full with devotion, classes, games and service. The Griffins taught relationships class (splitting up the boys and girls). It was great fun listening to what the gals and guys learned. That night's service was awesome as Sister Griffin preached on taking back the arrow. Lives were definitely changed that night, but war was also waged at the altar.

Tuesday was the combined relationship class and it was a lot of fun, laughs and truth. Then we had the banquet with a theme of Battle for souls. Jenna did a great job of creating "hell" with flames and lots of glitter (that several helped to decorate) and then we had the road that led to a big cross with every one's name written in "blood". All the tables were done in red or white table clothes with candles and then cross key chains made of nails as place settings. CeCe Winans song "Waging War" was played while Brother Anders (dressed in black) took his place in hell and Brother Griffin wrapped in white sheet protected the saints. Satan would come out and try to get one of the saints and Christ would push him way. Little Brother Anders and big Brother Griffin, it was moving to me. Then we went into the service. After worship Sister Griffin had the ministry pray for the children. In no time the Holy Ghost took over and we had a POWERFUL altar service. She then preached a short message on the Holy Ghost and then we moved down to the lake for our baptismal service at 11 pm with the sun still shining bright but the water quite chilly. Brother Anders and Brother Griffin did the baptising. It too was awesome. The water was so cold at first but they said they truly felt the Lord warm it up for them. (By the way, we had some really warm weather and some chilly weather. I believe it got into the 80's one day; so everyone got a taste of what summer in Alaska is like). The young people still wanted their bonfire so we did a small one about 11:45 pm for about 45 minutes and we were blessed to have a moose walk by the lake behind the bonfire. How cool is that.

Camp ended on Wednesday morning after devotions, breakfast and cleaning up. We had a total of 41 campers/staff. I can never thank the Anders and the Griffins enough for all their work. Brother Anders taught, helped with the music, allowed the Lord to use him during the altar work and participated in all activities. Sister Anders worked so very hard beside Sister Connie Peter in the kitchen (and ladies I promise paper plates next year) plus helped me put the crosses together (which was more difficult then I thought they would be). Amy and/or Bev was there with the music whenever it was needed. Brother and Sister Anders, I don't know if you'll ever read this (but hopefully Amy will) my deep gratitude goes out to you for what you gave to our camp. You were precious and a blessing beyond measure to everyone but I am forever grateful for the help it gave me and the lives you touched.

Brother and Sister Griffin our very precious. They gave themselves in so many ways to the camp. I don't think anyone will ever forget your classes. Your sensitivity to the needs of the people and the Spirit was a blessing. We worked you every way we could, although Brother Griffin and Brother Nowling really became fond of Fred Meyers...I can never thank you enough, but my heavenly Father will reward you greatly. And Victoria, you are a beautiful, precious young lady for the Lord. I hope your first camp was a good experience for you.

To everyone that came and gave camp was about all of us and allowing God to do a work in us. We came expecting and jumped right in from the very first moment and we were rewarded greatly because of it. Hang on to what you received. Continue to grow and GIVE and SHARE God's goodness with others and we'll see many things happen.

Though camp already seems like so long ago. And though I had thought that once I got to camp I would be able to relax and that didn't happen; it was time that I wouldn't have traded any moment for anything. It reminded me once again why I love the camping program. Those days at camp, we are secluded from the world. We deal with the effect that world has already had on us without having to deal with jobs, school, etc. I love camp and I pray that God will continue to give me strength to work it until I die.

My next post; I'll outline the days after camp and Jessa's wedding.

Sorry I haven't blogged details

I feel like I need a month to catch up on sleep and just out and out relaxing. Even my boss left telling me to get some rest tonight.

I promise I will share details soon. This weekend is going to be just a time to have no real plans. I'll pack up the wedding things (flowers, shoes, etc) and all for Jessa as they're sitting in the living room. Then put away some laundry but beyond that NO work for me.

Tonight we're watching classic movies. I haven't watched tv or movie for weeks. It feels good.

God is good. Have a great weekend.

More pictures

I still don't have the brain power to lay out the wedding events. But here are some more pictures. They are from various cameras and have not been cropped or anything as you will see for yourself. Hopefully they'll help you share the day with us though. Jessa and Levi these are for you as I know you're both anxious to see pictures.

Forgive the random posting. Oh and yes Brother Ray, Jessa was very tired but she also had contacts in that she just started wearing again about a week earlier.