HAPPY NEW YEAR

I am praying for a wonderful 2008! I know God has a lot of great things ahead for us and His church, and I am looking forward to another NEW YEAR. I have many things I would like to see happen, but the main "happening" I would like to see is an outpouring of the Holy Ghost on all those who are seeking for a change in their life and for the backsliders who have wandered away from God to "come home"! He is calling and I hope and pray they are listening and will return to Him soon! I've had a wonderful year and have enjoyed blogging. I have enjoyed keeping in contact with my friends and meeting all the new ones in "Blog World". Thank you all for all your kind words, and for letting me be a part of your world. God bless you all! Happy New Year and Happy Blogging!

Another Relaxing Evening

After going to eat at the Old Hickory Steak House downstairs I decided to come back and try out Windows Live Writer.  After reading about it on Take Two  blog I had my curiosity get the best of me.  I can't stand it when someone is talking about something and I don't know what it is, so I downloaded the Windows Live Writer and that's what this post is all about.  LOL!  Has anyone else tried it?  Let me know what you think if you have.  This is a picture I had from a few years ago at Christmas.  Aren't they just two little dolls?  They were so tickled!  They've always had so much fun together.  I think I might like using this Live Writer!  You can see exactly what your post is going to look like before posting it to your blog.  I know I've just started so I'm sure I will have some questions.  :)  One of my New Year's resolutions is to learn more about blogging and how to use the right tools to make the experience even better.  Although, I have had a wonderful time with what I've already learned.  Ok...enough is enough. 

Christmas Present

For the last 23 years we have pastored a church that loves their Pastor and Pastor's family. Life Tabernacle is a very loving church and I am proud to be their Pastor's wife, but more than that they are our church family and friends. I remember many years ago when we were pastoring in another town, my husband was Home Missions Director for Section 1 (use to be 13) and he scheduled a Christmas for Christ service in Wichita Falls at Life Tabernacle. When we left the service that night and we travelled the back roads on our way home, I looked at my husband and said, "I felt so at home tonight at Life Tabernacle. I felt like I belonged there as Pastor's wife!" Of course, I did not know the plans God had for our lives, but many times wondered about those feelings. Several years later we accepted the pastorate of Life Tabernacle and it has been a wonderful relationship! I love how God "orders our lives" and puts men of God and saints together to accomplish His will. My cup definitely runs over with love and thankfulness for the people God has placed in our lives. Every Christmas the saints of Life Tabernacle have given us a gift, and this year was not any different. This year they presented us with a "two night stay at the Gaylord Texan". They also gave us money to spend while there! What a wonderful, relaxing gift it is and we are enjoying it at this very moment! We arrived here this afternoon after spending Christmas in Pflugerville. After getting settled in our room we went to eat at P.F. Chang's and it was a wonderful experience for us. We had called and made reservations, then decided to "just go and see if we could get in earlier". By the time we got our name on the list my husband was needing to eat!! He can't go too long or he will have a "low" so he asked for "something to drink and a little something to munch on while we waited". The manager said, "Yes sir! I'll get you fixed up." In a few minutes the manager came by and said, "Sir, what is the name on your reservation?" My husband told him and he said, "I'll be right back." I watched him as he cleaned off a table in "record time" and then he went back toward the kitchen. In a few minutes he walked out of the kitchen with a plate of egg rolls and sauces, set them on the table and walked over and said "Mr. Elms follow me." We followed him to the table he had been preparing for "someone" and from that moment we were waited on as if we were "somebody come"!! :) We ordered our meal and as we were enjoying the delicious "Lettuce wraps, Mongolian Beef, Spicy Chicken and brown rice", the manager came by again and said, "You ordered some of my favorites, but I'm going to bring you something else that will compliment those dishes." He brought back an order of "Vegetable LoMein" and served our plates! It was very good and really did enhance the meal. We were so full and as we were finishing up he came back by and said, "I've got dessert for you, too! Do you like chocolate?" LOL! He then brought out a "Chocolate Torte with fresh fruit"!! It was very rich and good, but there was no way to eat it all. It was amazing how he treated us and didn't even charge us for all the "extras"!! You know, there are some wonderful people in this world. We do not know "why" he treated us with such kindness, but we felt "very special" once again. We looked around to see if there was anyone there telling him what to do. My husband said, "Do you think he knew we were coming?" Well, I don't think anyone told him anything, I just know we enjoyed one of the best dining experiences we've ever had, and that I'm so full I can't hardly breathe!! To our Life Tabernacle family let me say, "there was a man at P.F. Chang's who treated us exactly the way you do and he represented you well!" THANK YOU for our Christmas gift this year. We love you ALL!

All Is Calm

The last few days have been "quiet in blogworld". I have checked many times to see if anyone is writing. A few people have written about Christmas and even shared some slideshows, and I have enjoyed them. But, it seems for the most part everyone's letting their brains and blogs rest. I, being one of them. I really haven't had a lot to say the last few days. It just seems we all are relaxing and waiting for the New Year to begin. My mind is wondering about the year 2008. I never thought we would still be here in this world by now, but He hasn't come back for His church yet, and we are still "watching and waiting for His return". Unless Gabriel blows his trumpet in the next few days we will begin another year. What does the future hold for all of us? That is a big question and it is a question no one can answer. So, I will just say...."I don't know about tomorrow. I just live from day to day." God has something special for us, I am sure. I wonder what it might be. I wonder....just wonder....

Santa's Reindeer

I just wanted to show you one of Santa's Reindeer. She came in from the North Pole a few days ago. She's the prettiest reindeer you'll ever see! Have a Merry Christmas!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYBODY!

I trust your day will be filled with

love, laughter, and making special memories.

Love you all!

Savanna and Scarlet

I just received this picture tonight from Jonathan and Brenda and wanted to share it with you. Now that Jon, Brenda, Savanna and Scarlet live so far away I don't get to take as many pictures of the girls as I use to, so I was very happy to receive this one from them tonight, along with some other "Christmas Memories". Girls, I love you "so much I can't stand it" and I will miss you this year on Christmas day, but I know you will have a lot of fun with Nana and Papa! Play until you can't play anymore with all of your cousins, and have lots of fun. I hope Papa and I can see you sometime soon! Love you bunches, and bunches, and bunches!

Ok....now that I've said that, I will just say we had a wonderful weekend in church! The presence of God filled both services and we were surrounded in His love. We also were privileged to have the Kenny Prince family, Doug Boyd family, and Joel Bean family with us! It's always so much fun when those who have been a part of the "Life Tabernacle Family" come home to visit. Bro. Joel preached a wonderful message tonight and stirred our hearts to be "annointed of God"! Afterwards, we all went to eat and definitely enjoyed the time together. We love these wonderful men of God and their families and are so proud of them! They are all doing a work for God in other places now and we pray for the Lord to bless them in their "field of labor".

I don't know how much I will be able to be on to blog the next few days, but until we "meet again in "Blogville" let me just say, "HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS"! I hope you get everything you want and need. If you are travelling, please be safe and enjoy your visit with loved ones and friends. I love you all and will talk to you SOON!

Baby, It's Cold Outside!!

High: 43 °F RealFeel®: 29 °F Winds gusting past 40 mph; mainly cloudy and much colder! This is our forecast for today, but tonight it's this.....Saturday Night, Dec 22 Low: 25 °RealFeel®: 15 °F Mainly clear and cold!! Right now it is only 36 degrees, and it is COLD with the wind blowing good and strong. I woke up this morning, put on my robe and slippers and cooked breakfast (eggs, pork chops, toast and jelly, and coffee) I told my husband that I wasn't going anywhere today, so he built a fire in the fireplace so I could enjoy it the rest of the day and yes, it is still going! I'm doing good putting the "logs on the fire". :) I have been baking cookies and I'm going to make some "Candied Pecans". I have been hungry for them for a long time and decided to find a recipe and "try it". Hopefully, they will turn out. If not....oh well! :) I love the overcast skies, the wind blowing, the crackling fire in my fireplace and the smell of the wood burning! I love the sound of Christmas music coming over the speakers in my home, and the smell of cookies baking in the oven. Earlier I saw a few snowflakes falling. I don't think we will have much snow this time, but you never know when you live in North Texas!! Have a wonderful, delicious, exciting, relaxing, "Saturday before Christmas"! Enjoy the season and remember to enjoy "the Reason for the season"!

P.S. I almost forgot to tell you, but I'm fixing TACOS tonight! I wish you all were here to enjoy them with me. :)

My Friend Susanne

I just had to get on tonight to tell you about my friend, Susanne. I met her this summer when my husband and I went to Nova Scotia to preach for her father, Bro. Gratto. I have known of Susanne for a long time, because Daddy and Mother preached for Bro. Gratto many years ago, and they came back talking about Susanne. This past summer when we were there Susanne and I had so much fun being together. Susanne is "hearing impaired" and I am "sign language impaired" so we had a lot of fun "talking" together! One time when we were talking to each other she knew I wasn't catching on to what she was saying, so she signed to me that she needed a pen and paper so she could write what she was telling me. LOL! I thought that was quite brilliant, since I was the one having trouble! She seemed to do just fine "reading my lips" and undertanding what I was saying. I know it wasn't because I was "good" at communicating with her, she's just good at "understanding" what others are saying!! :) Susanne has a beautiful spirit and is a very cheerful young lady. She lifts your spirit just by being around her. I wanted to let you all know she started a blog some time ago and I just found out about it. I have spent quite awhile visiting her blog and found it so very interesting seeing all the beautiful pictures from Canada and of course, knowing her family. Please stop by her blog and say "hello" and welcome her to our "blog-world".

Checking In

Before going to bed for the evening I wanted to write and say I hope everyone is having a wonderful Christmas Season! I have not been able to sit down and write much the last few days and have missed writing my posts for the blog, but hopefully I will be able to soon. I have pictures to post and things to say, but they will have to wait a little while longer. Today has been beautiful here, but I hear some COLD, wet weather is heading our way. The thing about "bad weather" for us in North Texas is that it seems to always hit us on the weekends! It is so crazy!! I heard the news reporters talking about this the other day and I think they are as baffled about it as I am. We will just wait and see what happens. I think I will do what little shopping I need to do tomorrow, then come home and sit by the fire. I will leave you for now and I trust you will have a beautiful day wherever you may be! Merry Christmas to you all!

Trash Talk

Last night was our "Life Tabernacle Family Social" at the church and we had a wonderful time. After most of the people were gone and we were ready to come home, Andrew and Mandy could not find the stack of Christmas cards they had been given. We searched all over the fellowship hall, on the counter, in the cabinets, in the closet, on the tables, the chairs, in the sanctuary, the offices...you get the picture, I'm sure. We couldn't find them anywhere! I felt so bad that they would have to go home without their cards. I know how enjoyable it is to get home, put on your robe, sit down in your chair with all the cards, reading every word. They are always so sweet! My heart always swells with love and thanksgiving as I read. I was feeling so sorry for Andrew and Mandy when all of a sudden the thought hit me and I said, with great emotion....... "MY CAMERA! WHERE'S MY CAMERA?" By this time no one was at the church except my husband, me, Andrew, Mandy, and the girls. We went back to the fellowship hall to get my camera off of the cabinet "where I had put it" earlier in the evening. My camera was no place in sight! Yes, we looked all over the kitchen once again. On the counter, in the cabinets, on the tables, the chairs, in the closets, drawers, sanctuary, prayer room, offices.....anywhere and everywhere we looked!! Now, I was getting worried that someone had "taken it", but didn't know of anyone that would have done such a thing, so someone MUST have taken it home with them "thinking it was theirs". And the cards....well....it was possible someone had gotten them mixed up with theirs, also. In these situations their are so many possibilities and my mind was going ninety miles an hour trying to...."figure it out"! A few phone calls were made, but NO ONE knew where any of the things were! I called Rita who had been working in the kitchen and she said......"Sis. Elms, ya'll need to look in the trash. There was a trash can sitting right under the counter and it could have been pushed off in the trash." (TRASH! TRASH! OH NO! NOT THE TRASH!) I had already had experience with the "TRASH MONSTER" and did not want to go through that again!! Let's go back: (suspence....I love suspence)

"A few years ago I bought my sister a "special gift". I was so excited about giving it to her, because she had NO IDEA that I would go buy it for her. I had it wrapped up good and "safe" in the bag from the store that I had purchased it from. When I got home with the package I sat it at the end of the counter in the kitchen so that "if she came by my house she would not be able to recognize the package". It was one of those "sneaky times" we all love to enjoy. :) I came in one day and noticed the package was gone. When my husband walked into the house I asked him if he had moved "the package". "What package?" was his reply. "Karla's gift! It was sitting right there at the end of the cabinets," I answered. "You mean the one that was all wrapped up sitting right here?" he asked. "Yes, that one!" I answered as my heart began to skip a few beats. My husband looked at me funny and took a breath and said, "Honey, I didn't know that was Karla's gift. I thought that was trash. With the kids here and all you've been putting the big trash bags right here and I took it to the trash this morning! In fact, since it was so heavy I put it on top of the trash can to hold the lid down." Well, I nearly had a heart attack! (just a figure of speech, don't worry) I knew that the "trash truck" was suppose to come by TODAY and pick up the trash!!! I went into a panic. I double-checked to see if they had already come and they had! Now, "what am I going to do"? I had every emotion hit me at one time!!! I could not believe my "special gift" to Karla was in the TRASH truck and all I could see was the "jazz saxophone player" being SMASHED in the back of the monster TRASH truck!!!!!! To save you anymore details to this story I will just say that after a frantic search for another "jazz player" I found it and Karla got her gift.

Now, back to my camera. Wendell and I were still looking all over the church for it...and the "cards" when Mandy called and said, "Mom, we found your camera. We are out here at the dumpster and our cards were in the last trash bag that was taken out, so Andrew kept looking and he found your camera. It wasn't in its case, so he's looking for the case, now." Once again, I had a lot of emotions flowing through my mind. I could just see my new camera we had bought while on vacation last summer.....down in the TRASH. I could only imagine what it looked like as he pulled it out of the "garbage"! Coffee, creamers, sandwiches, cookies, cakes, tea, and coffee grounds along with no telling what else might be in that dumpster! After a little bit, Andrew found the case, the camera and the cards! He rescued my camera from all of this "stuff" and he is my "hero" today! :) Anyone that would go "digging through the trash" to find anything for me is a very special person! I could spiritualize this, but I won't write it all out for you today. Just remember for future reference that, "there was a babe born in a manger Who came to mankind to dig us out of the trash so that we could be free from sin and have everlasting life"! I think my camera is fine! It has been taking pictures okay. Now, if the mechanisms do not get "stuck" because of the "garbage it was in" I will be using it for many years to come, unless I leave it "on the counter where someone can push it off in the trash without realizing it". I think I've learned a few lessons out of all of this.
1. Be more careful not to leave "valuable things" where they can be "hurt", "ruined" or "trashed".
2. Be careful with "valuables" that belong to someone else.
3. Someone has a "valuable" they have lost. I must help them find it, even if I have to go to the "dumpster"!
4. I will also remember......I have a Savior.....Who came!

Christmastime for Sure!

Whew......I've been too busy to sit down and blog anything! I've been doing things getting ready for different things that are happening this week, so I hope to take a little time in the next few days to write something, but until then...ya'll have a great weekend!

Family

This morning I received a call from my nephew Nathaniel, and I enjoyed the "visit" long distance so much! While visiting with him I learned things about him that I did not know, and admire very much. What a great man he is and has become over the years. Thank you, Nathaniel for calling. Now, let me tell you why I am writing today. I LOVE FAMILY! I know that doesn't come as a surprise to any of you who read my blog, but in my talking with Nathaniel and saying goodbye to him, he said something that brought tears to my eyes and a touch of sadness to my heart, yet I was happy. NO....he didn't say anything wrong....he said everything RIGHT! Families are so neat! It's amazing to me how personalities and traits are handed down from one generation to the next. Today I heard it again and loved it! Keith, my brother who passed away in 2000...SEVEN long years ago (that's hard to believe) had a way of saying one word in a "different" way, and he "came alive" again today. Nathaniel said "that word" today. The word is "a....ryight" (lol) How do you spell it? (lol) Nathaniel said "a...ryight" (alright) just like Keith always did, and that's what made me "sad", yet "happy". I could hear Keith talking to me at that very moment. When I hung up the phone, I then called Andrew, our son who was at the church. I once again heard my brother in Andrew's voice and words! I LOVE FAMILY! Families keep memories alive through their actions, words, voice, and stories told. Andrew has actions "just like Keith" and sometimes I go back in time when I'm with him. Even though my eyes fill with tears, especially this time of year, my heart leaps with happiness to know my brother lives on through some of the men in my life!! I LOVE FAMILY! Now, unless you think I am sad, I probably am a little bit, but that comes with life. I am fine and don't want anyone to "feel sorry" for me. :) Memories are what keep people enjoying life and having them is a blessing! I would hate to live without having the sweet memories of those I love. Enjoy your family this Christmas, and you'll have "beautiful, fun memories" to ENJOY the rest of your life.

Urgent Prayer Needed!

This is a very urgent call to prayer for this lovely young evangelist wife and mother. I am asking all who believe in God to pray for this special lady! I copied this information off of the Prayer of Bethani site so you will have a "target" to pray for. God will hear us as we pray! In Jesus Name we pray healing to come to Bethani at this very moment! AMEN!

Request for Prayer: Bethani had her blood work done yesterday in Redding. She woke up this morning unable to keep her medications down. They called the doctors in San Francisco to discuss her problem today. After looking at her blood work they told them to come straight to San Francisco that her numbers showed that she was in full rejection of her liver.

The family is asking for your prayer! Please pray that God will reach down right now and touch Bethani. God is able!

A Cute Christmas Story

The following story was sent to my husband and he shared it with me. I wanted my "blog friends" to enjoy it, so I'm posting it tonight. I do not know who wrote it or I would give them "proper recognition". As you all know by now, I LOVE children and watching them perform. I remember the many Christmas "plays" I have seen through the years. The children are always so entertaining and the parents proud, yet sometimes "humiliated". LOL! I could keep writing, but I'll stop for now. Enjoy the story!

My husband and I had been happily (most of the time) married for five years but hadn't been blessed with a baby. I decided to do some serious praying and promised God that if he would give us a child, I would be a perfect mother, love it with all my heart and raise it with his word as my guide.

God answered my prayers and blessed us with a son. The next year God blessed us with another son. The following year, he blessed us with yet another son. The year after that we were blessed with a daughter. My husband thought we'd been blessed right into poverty. We now had four children, and the oldest was only four years old.

I learned never to ask God for anything unless I meant it. As a minister once told me, "If you pray for rain, make sure you carry an umbrella."

I began reading a few verses of the Bible to the children each day as they lay in their cribs. I was off to a good start. God had entrusted me with four children and I didn't want to disappoint him.

I tried to be patient the day the children smashed two dozen eggs on the kitchen floor searching for baby chicks. I tried to be understanding when they started a hotel for "homeless frogs" in the spare bedroom, although it took me nearly two hours to catch all twenty-three frogs.

When my daughter poured ketchup all over herself and rolled up in a blanket to see how it felt to be a hot dog, I tried to see the humor rather than the mess.

In spite of changing over twenty-five thousand diapers, never eating a hot meal and never sleeping for more than thirty minutes at a time, I still thank God daily for my children. While I couldn't keep my promise to be a perfect mother - I didn't even come close - I did keep my promise to raise them in the Word of God.

I knew I was missing the mark just a little when I told my daughter we were going to church to worship God, and she wanted to bring a bar of soap along to "wash up" Jesus, too.

Something was lost in the translation when I explained that God gave us everlasting life, and my son thought it was generous of God to give us his "last wife."

My proudest moment came during the children's Christmas pageant. My daughter was playing Mary, two of my sons were shepherds and my youngest son was a wise man. This was their moment to shine.

My five-year-old shepherd had practiced his line, "We found the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes." But he was nervous and said, "The baby was wrapped in wrinkled clothes." My four-year-old "Mary" said, "That's not 'wrinkled clothes,' silly. That's dirty, rotten clothes."

A wrestling match broke out between Mary and the shepherd and was stopped by an angel, who bent her halo and lost her left wing.

I slouched a little lower in my seat when Mary dropped the doll representing Baby Jesus, and it bounced down the aisle crying, "Mama-mama."

Mary grabbed the doll, wrapped it back up and held it tightly as the wise men arrived.

My other son stepped forward wearing a bathrobe and a paper crown, knelt at the manger and announced, "We are the three wise men, and we are bringing gifts of gold, common sense and fur." The congregation dissolved into laughter, and the pageant got a standing ovation.

"I've never enjoyed a Christmas program as much as this one," laughed the pastor, wiping tears from his eyes. "For the rest of my life, I'll never hear the Christmas story without thinking of gold, common sense and fur."

"My children are my pride and my joy and my greatest blessing," I said as I dug through my purse for an aspirin.

Hear Alayna Sing

You can now go to Mandy's blog and hear Alayna sing her first solo in church! We are so proud of her! She will grow up singing and blessing everyone with her beautiful voice. She is only 5 years old and already has a "heart after God". "God, please keep her in Your loving care, and shield her from the enemy. Thank you for our sweetheart, Alayna."

Note: You can also go to this post to read more about our concert night. It is a post I wrote earlier today. Thanks again for stopping by.

Medicine for those in pFLUville!

I visited this blog today and this is what I found! I just couldn't help but post it. LOL! I think my brother-in-law, Gene could have sung this song a few days ago when he was sick with the pFLU! Hope you like this song, Gene!
"Laughter is the BEST medicine!" Hope you're all feeling better now!

Christmas Concert

Last night was a wonderful concert by Life Tabernacle Sanctuary Choir, Children's Choir, and Drama Ministry. We were concerned about the weather, because we had some icy bridges Sunday morning and the reports came in of people slipping and sliding on their way to church. Sharon and her dad were not as fortunate to "just slip" and she lost control of their van as she hit ice on a bridge.We are all so thankful that they are doing fine, except for being sore from the crash! God keeps His hands on us in times we don't even know we are in danger. Thank you, Lord! After discussing about the weather my husband decided to go ahead have the concert and we are so glad he did. We had a wonderful crowd and a great time in the presence of the Lord. Our choir, children's choir, and drama department did a beautiful job and people were touched by what they felt and heard. I do not have any video to show you, but I will give you another slideshow to enjoy. :) You have to go here to understand that last statement. Have a great day and I will "talk" to you again, soon.

Too Tired to Blog Tonight

I really wanted to blog tonight about everything that's been happening here in our church, but I think I'm just too tired!! I'll just say for now...we had a wonderful Christmas Choir Concert tonight and I'm so very proud of Kassie, the choir, and musicians!! Also, the children's choir sang and did incredible under the leadership of Carmen. Ok....that's all I'm saying, but I will leave you with a picture.
I thought you would enjoy my little Christmas Sweethearts! I'm also waiting for Mandy to blog so we can "see and hear" Alayna sing her first solo in church. Ya'll have a wonderful Monday! Hopefully, I will get around to blogging tomorrow.

Cozy Time of Year

I am not a big shopper like a lot of ladies, so I only go shopping if I need to. I know that probably surprises some, but that's just me. I haven't finished my shopping for Christmas, but I will and the gifts will be all ready to unwrap when that time comes. For me right now I am enjoying the Season! I finished decorating my house, minus the tree, and I am enjoying the coziness of Christmas decorations, Christmas music, and remembering the good times in the past. I love the lights twinkling on the houses, shrubs, and trees. I love the nativity scenes in the yards that tell us the story of a time so long ago when the Savior of the world was born! There is just something magical about this time of year. I love seeing the anticipation in the eyes of children as they wait for the night all the gifts they have been dreaming about will be "delivered" by a jolly old fellow, that doesn't even exist. The "dreaming" is almost too much for them to stand! Anyone who knows me, knows me as a "grown-up that's still a child at heart". I love the simplicity of life. I'm not one to leave "traditions" very far behind. My house is still decorated in red and green, Santa and Mrs. Santa, and alot of different Santa's sitting around. Doesn't the song say, "He sees you when you're sleeping. He knows when you're awake. He knows if you've been bad or good so be good for goodness sake"? Well, my house has Santa watching from many different locations. Now, for those who do not believe in Santa, I don't either, but I do believe in the "spirit of giving" that Santa always portrays. I know it's a fairy tale story, but it's fun imagining with the children that there's a "jolly ole fella" off in the cold country, that will be riding in his sleigh full of toys, pulled by Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer and all of his buddies who help keep the sleigh traveling at an incredible speed to get to all the children all over the world giving them presents they asked for when they sat on his lap in the mall! I also love the Christmas programs put on by our children. I love being with friends and family and enjoying the sights and sounds of Christmas at parties that are given to celebrate Christmas! I love candles flickering throughout my home warming our heart as we walk into a room. I love the special night at church we set aside for "Christmas for Christ" when families walk passed the manger placing their offering there so the gospel can be carried to those who are in "darkness". One of the most touching part of this night is when a member of the family who has just given their offering, picks up a candle and places it on the map of the United States of America! Many times they will choose carefully where they place their candle, because they have family somewhere far away that needs God in their lives. You can almost hear the prayer in their heart that "somehow, someway God will send someone to them to show them truth"! I could go on and on about Christmas and what I love about it, but most of all I love KNOWING we have a SAVIOR, and He loves us so much that He came to redeem us. If He had not cared, if He had not sacrificed His life for mine, then I would have no HOPE. Living without hope has got to be the most LOST feeling anyone could ever have. Thank you Jesus for coming so we can have LIFE and that "more abundantly"! Here is a slideshow of our special "Christmas for Christ" service. This is only a "taste" of how wonderful this night is. I trust you will enjoy Life Tabernacle's "tradition".

More pictures of LIFEtimers

I've already posted the videos from tonight, but wanted to say a great big THANK YOU to Carmen and all who helped her with the party. I laughed until I was almost sick with a headache. LOL! I'll tell you what happened, if I can. One of the gentlemen there is very hard of hearing, and cannot hear very much at all and we were having a game that is traditionally done at this party. Carmen reads a story and in the story are the words "right" and "left". When she is reading we are to pass the "gifts" around the table. When she says "right" we go "right", "left" we change directions and go "left". I'm sure you get the picture! Well, tonight we were "passing the gifts" but this gentleman did not know what was going on. He just watched, and watched, then a funny little grin showed up on his face. Bro. Dutton was sitting on one side of him, and Bro. Holley on the other, so they had to take the gift from him and keep it going! After a little while the man said to Bro. Dutton, "Well, I'm glad you've got two hands!" He was getting a kick out of watching Bro. Dutton and Bro. Holley take his gift! I don't think I had seen him smile like I saw him smile tonight. I know it may not be funny to you, just reading about it, and as they say "you just needed to be there", but if nobody laughs but me and those that were sitting at that table, that's fine. At least I have it "journaled" on my blog! LOL! I still get tickled thinking about it! Anyway, the whole night was wonderful and we just cannot thank everyone enough for a great job done. With all the fun we had I can say, "I guess I don't mind getting older"...Not after a great time tonight!

I also want to say we are so happy to have two retired ministers who have recently made Life Tabernacle their "home". (Bro. and Sis. Deavers, and Bro. and Sis. Milstid) We are enjoying getting to know them more and look forward to some good times together here in Life Tabernacle. We want to be a blessing to these two couples who have given their lives to the ministry and helping others know our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I can say without reservation that Life Tabernacle is a wonderful place to be for those needing a place to rest. The saints of Life Tabernacle are wonderful and love the ministry. They also love serving each other and love serving those who come to be fed. It has been said that Life Tabernacle is one of the most friendly and loving churches around, and I am thankful to be a part of this church! I'm glad God sent us here twenty-three years ago and I'm thankful to still be here. WOW! I wasn't planning on writing all of this tonight, but I guess my heart overflows with His goodness to me.

Life Tabernacle Jazz Band

Here is the band jammin' on "Go Tell It On the Mountain"! In the words of my sister, Karla...."they're just good"!! I have to agree with her.

The same musicians are playing, but they've added Kyle on the other saxophone. They were all having so much FUN and we thoroughly ENJOYED it! Thanks again to all of you who played. We love you so much!

LIFEtimers Christmas Party

Tonight was one of the most FUN nights! It was the "Annual LIFEtimers Christmas Party" that Carmen and her committee puts together for those 65+. Carmen asked our very own "Life Tabernacle Jazz Band" to play and they were AWESOME! It's so hard to realize just how much talent this group has until you sit and listen to them for a little while and I am always "blown away" and overwhelmed with thankfulness for the great people God has put in my life. One of the band members birthday was today, but he came to entertain anyway, and it was definitely appreciated by all! THANK YOU Lynn (Dubya) for choosing to bless others, once again, and for putting your desires last. I'm glad your parents could be with you tonight at this gathering. They're not "old enough" to be part of this group, but it was very nice having them there tonight. Here is a video of Lynn playing: Walking In a Winter Wonderland. The lighting was set pretty low, so the video is a little dark, but you will enjoy the music.

The musicians are: James (drums) Jeremy (upright bass) Kassie (keyboard)

Two Pictures I Love

When Jonathan and Brenda came up for Thanksgiving we were thrilled to have them in church with us one night. Scarlet came to the organ to see me during the altar service and Brenda grabbed the camera. Here's the result of her "making memories". I will always treasure this "moment in time".

What Happened?

(ring, ring) I heard the phone ringing and even though I did not recognize the name on my I.D. Caller I still answered it. I heard a ladies voice..."Mrs. Elms? My husband and I were out walking this morning and we found a wallet and a SMASHED iPhone." If someone would have hit me in the stomach it wouldn't have been much worse. After I took a breath, I said, "OH NO! We were looking for my husbands wallet last night. This isn't going to be a good day for him." Not wanting to make the lady feel bad for telling us about finding the SMASHED iPhone, I quickly reassured her by saying, "On the other hand it will be a good day....he'll be glad to know where his wallet is." To make a "sad story" short, and not to pro-long the terrible, icky, feeling you probably have in the pit of your stomach, I will just say, "He got his wallet back and everything was still in it...cash, cards, and driver's license! Let me just say it this way: "His life was in his wallet!" I'm sure you understand what I mean. I'm glad that there are still some HONEST people in the world!! Oh...I'm sure you're wondering how the wallet was lost and the iPhone was SMASHED. Evidently, my husband put them on top of my car and forgot they were there. We were on our way to a very important meeting in town and they FELL OFF about four blocks from our house. There is no telling how many people RAN OVER the iPhone and the wallet. Now, you know "the rest of the story". If you will scroll down you will see a few more pictures of the SMASHED iPhone! By the way...my husband pushed the button to turn it on, and it really TRIED to come on! Poor little iPhone! It wanted to live!
One last note: You should have seen the look on the face of the employee at AT&T when Wendell walked in and said, "I need help with my iPhone....it keeps locking up on me!" LOL! It's okay to laugh. We have! LOL!

Thanksgiving Remembered

I got a call from my wonderful daughter-in-law, Brenda the other day and she said, "Mom! You haven't posted anything about Thanksgiving! I have been on your blog checking and you STILL haven't done anything!!!! What's the deal?" LOL! I must say, "I'm so sorry, Brenda! I don't know what the "deal" is. I guess I just hadn't sat down to put a slideshow together, and then post about it. Please forgive me." :) I sure don't want to bore anyone with "my life", but I really do enjoy talking about what we do as a family and how much fun we have together. So, here is the slideshow for all who are interested. December is moving on so fast that I'm afraid I'm not going to have enough time to blog about everything I want to blog about. LOL! Am I already going in circles? I think so! Have a wonderful Christmas Season....that is....AFTER you watch my "Thanksgiving Slideshow". :)

Just Can't Believe it!

I am now OVER 50,000 HITS! When I started my blog I never dreamed people would want to read what I wrote, but THANK YOU everyone for being faithful readers! Blogging has become one of the most FUN things I do. I guess you can say "it's my hobby"!! Communicating and staying connected is what I like to do best. I don't know what I would do if I couldn't be in contact with friends and family! Thank you, again! Please come back and leave a comment sometime. I love hearing from you.

Beyond Words

Tonight was another night I will not forget. A group of people from Life Tabernacle went to Faith Mission to feed the men, women, and children who are hungry for food, and for God. We have a service before we serve the meal, and while I stood in the presence of God singing and worshipping Him I knew He was touching those who have never known Him in the fullness of Truth! The praise group and musicians played with all of their hearts and did a fabulous job! James spoke for a few minutes and gave hope to the hopeless! Thank you all for showing the love of Jesus to these hurting people. I was privileged to help serve with the other saints who were pouring their love into the hearts of people who feel they are not loveable. I can say without a doubt I was touched beyond words. I could hardly stand there without tears streaming down my face! You could see the longing in the eyes of those who came through the line and they were so thankful for us being there. Everytime I took a tray from Rita and handed it to Sharon I felt the heartbeat of God and could hear Him saying, "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me". As we were leaving Bro. Elms and I had the opportunity to speak to a man who had been "touched" by the presence of God and "fed" by the saints of Life Tabernacle. He was thankful for the hope he had been given and for the food that filled his stomach. As we drove away I was so thankful that I had "felt the heartbeat of God". My prayer tonight is that God will save these precious souls! They are a mother and father's... son or daughter, a wife's... husband, a husband's...wife, a child's...father or mother, a grand parents...grandson or granddaughter, but most of all they are SOULS whom Jesus died for!

Note: For another account of this night go here.

So Cute!

I know I talk a lot about my family and grandkids, but I've got to tell you what happened tonight! The dynamics of "family" is different in each home, but I'm sure there are "family secrets" that all of us have. So, tonight we were eating after service with Bro. Henry, Andrew and Mandy, Alayna and Ashlyn. As we were visiting I saw Alayna whisper something to Mandy, and Mandy answered, "I don't know. We'll see." I knew it was something Alayna wanted to do, so I asked her. "Alayna, what are you wanting to do?" Usually, she tells me, but this time she shook her head and said, "It's just a little of our business!" LOL! I said, "Ok. That's fine." I wasn't about to ask her and dig around her little mind to find out what their "business" was!!!! You know, there are just some places even Mimi's aren't suppose to tread. Mandy saw me laughing and she ask me what it was that Alayna had said. I told her and of course we all chuckled. We didn't want to embarrass her or make her think she had done something "stupid", so we didn't make a big deal out of it. It was a great example of a child being taught the proper etiquette of "family"!

P.S.

I forgot to tell everyone that it SNOWED tonight while we were at church! It was so exciting! LOL! I just had to jump back on here and tell you that it's Christmas weather in TEXAS!

Our God Is Awesome!

Today was another incredible day at Life Tabernacle! I want to report to you all and anyone that happens to come across my blog that, GOD IS DOING GREAT THINGS and HE STILL FILLS HUNGRY PEOPLE WITH THE BAPTISM OF THE HOLY GHOST! YES! Bro. Norman, a man in our church has prayed for his family for many years and two of his sisters, and two nieces have moved here! We are so happy to have them here in our church and city. One of them received the gift of the Holy Ghost TODAY and she was baptized in Jesus Name TONIGHT! God still answers prayer!!!!! I knew you would all be thrilled to hear about this exciting news. Lord, keep bringing the hungry people, so they can be filled. AMEN!

For All You Hunters

Friday morning my husband and our two sons, Jonathan and Andrew went to the deer lease and came back with 2 doe and 1 buck! I thought you hunters out there in the blog world would enjoy seeing Jonathan's FIRST buck!They definitely had a wonderful time and a few funny stories to tell! You might want to ask them how they got the Armada started "out in the middle of no where"! LOL! And...Jonathan and Andrew, what was it that walked by the deer stand you were sitting in? Is your heart still racing from what you THOUGHT just might be a "monster buck"? I tried to convince them they didn't need to GO to the lease to hunt since these beautiful WILD TURKEY'S decided to visit our neighborhood this week!I just couldn't convince them to stay home and let Bambi live! Wendell, Jonathan and Andrew, I'm glad you had a wonderful, relaxing time out in the wild, wild West! I love you all! To close this post I will leave you with a few more comments and a picture of Wendell's AWESOME deer feeder that Chris Isom made.Chris and his helper did an incredible job! At least, that's what I've been told. I'm sorry Bro. Chris, but I just have to take the word of those who are knowledgeable about these things and that just happens to be my husband and sons. Thank you for a job WELL-DONE! You might want to market these. I think you could make some good money on them! Happy Hunting to all you men who enjoy it. For you who are not "hunters", you can sit in your warm home and relax knowing that someone "out there" is keeping the deer population down in Texas!

Thanksgiving Night Post

WOW! What a great few days it has been! This is the first time I have sat down to my computer in a L-O-N-G time...it seems. I am enjoying our family being home! Everyone together! There is nothing like family. When you go home, or as it is with me these days, "when the kids and family come home" it is a VERY SPECIAL time! Jonathan and Brenda, Savanna and Scarlet came in Tuesday night and attended service with us. I absolutely LOVE having them home and in church with us and Andrew and Mandy, Alayna and Ashlyn. What more could I be thankful for? Savanna walked into the living room yesterday with tablet and pen and she asked me, "Mimi, what are you thankful for?" I instantly answered, "I'm thankful that my children are all home with me!" I am also thankful that they are walking with God and servants in His Kingdom. Gene and Karla, Cameron and Chad came in from Pflugerville Tuesday morning at 3 A.M. I told Karla that I felt "dis-com-bob-u-lated" without her here helping me fix the Thanksgiving meal. LOL! So, when she walked in late last night I felt much better!!!! :) I guess I've been so use to her being around for 18 years and just haven't got past missing her and the family. By the time Brenda, Mandy, Karla, Sis. Holley, and myself got finished fixing dinner today we had a feast that was absolutely delicious! (even if I say so) LOL! I hope everyone of my family and friends have had a wonderful, delicious, exciting, and loving day, just being together! I will post pictures in a few days.

Entertained By the Cain Family

After a wonderful service last night we were invited to the Cain's home for a nice time of fellowship and some delicious food. We also enjoyed playing the instruments! If you play any kind of musical instrument and if they have what you play, you do not go to their home without playing something. It is a house that is filled with music and people who have a PASSION to learn whatever they can to be better at what they do! Here are a few pictures of the evening.

Thank you James and Carmen for opening your home to us. We had a wonderful time and left feeling full from the nice meal, fun, friendship and love you have given us. Also, thank you Jeremy and Kyle for the fun time on the organ, piano and drums! Love you both!

Greg Henry Quartet

We were blessed with a special song from the "Greg Henry Quartet Tonight". Bro. Henry was raised in a house full of music! His father, Bill Henry was a wonderful song writer, but he has gone on to be with the Lord and we miss him very much. He was an incredible man and friend to so many people and brought hope and life to our hearts as he sang with the Landmark Trio. (The Hursts and Bro. Bill Henry) After Greg and Jonathan grew up a little, they were asked to play for the trio. (Greg played drums and Jonathan played the bass) and they did a great job! Here we are many years later and Bro. Greg Henry continues using his talents for the Lord. He and Sis. Henry are now training their girls, Macy and Melody, to sing for the Lord. They are teaching them Papa Henry's songs, so tonight they sang one of the songs he wrote. As you watch this video clip from tonight's service you will enjoy the spirit of which Bro. Bill Henry wrote his songs, and the joy that is continuing through his son, daughter-in-law, and grand-daughters! He would be SO proud!

Absolutely Fabulous

Our revival started off with a BANG! Yes, it was an electrified weekend in the presence of God! People came hungry and were filled. There is no telling what all took place in the hearts of those who were in attendance today at Life Tabernacle. If only walls, doors, pews, and altars could talk they would have some awesome stories of deliverance to tell!! Bro. and Sis. Greg Henry are with us in revival and this mornings message was wonderful. Bro. Henry has a unique way of saying things that touches the heart of everyone. At the end of his message the power of God fell and those who were hungry for something different were touched in a miraculous way! Thank God for the delivering power of the Holy Ghost. His power sets people free from sin! We also rejoiced with Pastor and Sis. Doug Boyd and the Life Tabernacle Church of Burkburnett, TX as they baptized three people in Jesus Name! At the ending of our service the Boyd's along with saints from their church came to use our baptistry and we were thrilled to share the "waters of baptism" with them. Great things are happening in the Burkburnett church and we are so happy! Tonight was amazing! From the beginning of the first note played, His presence filled the sanctuary. We are looking for greater things to happen in Life Tabernacle and Wichita Falls! God has promised our church many things and we are looking for the harvest to be brought in. "There is NO TELLING what God will do"! KEEP BELIEVING! We will see it come to pass!

Bernard Here!

We have had a wonderful week! We were privileged to have Bernard Elms with us from California. He came to visit with his brothers, Royce and Wendell and to have a little time of hunting together. He also came to preach for us and he preached a wonderful message! "The Most Important Place In the Church" was the message he preached and it was so good! I think I've already said that, but that's how good it was. If you would like to hear it please go here. Bernard is a great man and I am very blessed to have him as a "brother". Strong in the faith, solid in the gospel, funny just to be around, and unselfish in giving to others! That's the way I know him. Sandy (Bernard's wife) is as wonderful as he is!! I love her beyond words. She is always the same. She was not able to come with him all the way to Wichita Falls, but I know in her heart she wanted to be here. Every Thanksgiving and every Christmas we always, without fail receive a card from her wishing us the best. Sandy and Bernard we all love you! Thank you for being so wonderful! Here are a few pictures of Bernard while here with us.

Andrew loves being with his Dad and Uncles!Here's Bernard!Brothers!Studying for the message.Come back and see us as soon as possible, Bernard! We love having you around. Next time you need to come to Wichita Falls first and bring Sandy to stay with me. :)

He Keeps Blessing Me

I want to share with you a blessing I got this week. I had a call from James telling me about a note on a bulletin board in a country store that read, "Hammond Organ for Sale". I called about it and was interested so I asked him if he would check it out for me and call me afterwards. He called me little while later and said, "You want to buy this organ!" The rest is history. I'll just say this...I never expected to ever have a Hammond organ in my house because they are more money than I wanted to spend, but God just blessed me with this one for under $200! I'm so excited about it and have been enjoying playing and singing in my home. Today as I played I felt the presence of Almighty God come into my home and we had a wonderful visit together. There are so many wonderful people in my life! Some of those special people are James, Carmen, Jeremy and Kyle. They are a blessing to me. I love their passion for the work of God. I want to say a big thank you to them, Trevon and Cosme for taking the time and making the effort to deliver this beautiful organ to my home. I love you all!

They Made It Home!

There was so much excitement in our house Tuesday while we prepared for "Daddy and Mommy" to arrive home! The closer they got the more excited Alayna was until I thought she was going to explode! To keep her occupied we made a "Welcome Home" sign for the front door and she made a card for them.We also had a "Special Cake" to give them when they arrived! Let me tell you about this cake. When Alayna and Ashlyn came to stay with us, Alayna said to me, "Mimi, do you think we could make a cake for Daddy and Mommy when they come home? It would be so neat!" As you know the week went on and during that week both girls got sick, but Alayna was the one with fever and chills, so I was unable to do much except take care of them. I was wondering what I was going to do about "the cake" so on Tuesday morning when I saw there was a box on the porch I went to see what it was. I could hardly believe my eyes when I opened it and saw a beautiful cake that said, "Welcome Home Mommy and Daddy! We Missed You!" You should have seen the look on Alayna's face when I showed her what it was. I proceeded to tell her that Sis. Carmen (our children's choir leader) had made the cake and that Sis. Carmen didn't even know that she wanted a "Welcome Home Cake" for Mommy and Daddy! I said, "Alayna, Jesus knew you wanted a cake so he let Sis. Carmen make your special cake for you! Sis. Carmen made your wish come true!" It was a very special time for us and I couldn't help but shed a few tears as I was explaining to Alayna how God knows when we need something and will help us and give it to us! What a great teaching time I had. Thank you Carmen for "making a little girls dream come true"! We love you! Here is the "Special Welcome Home Cake".Alayna also put a family of "Potato Heads" together to help welcome her parents home. It was so cute. There was Daddy and Mommy holding hands, Alayna and Ashlyn, and the GREAT BIG Potato is Papa! Too cute!They arrived home and it took 5-10 minutes before I even got a hug from either of them! LOL! They were so excited and happy to see the girls and there was MUCH hugging, kissing, and seeing all the "gifts" they had!I love this picture of Mandy. After giving Alayna hugs she see's Ashlyn at the door. Look at the excitement on her and Andrew's faces!There is nothing like being with Daddy and Mommy! As Alayna puts it, "I love my fam-i-ly!"We are glad Andrew and Mandy got to go preach for "Uncle David Elms" but we are more happy to have them home safe and sound! Thank you Lord for a safe trip!

Update On the Girls

I really do appreciate everyone's response to my "call for prayer" for Alayna. Her and Ashlyn are fine today, except for a cough! Sunday morning the girls woke up feeling better, but I thought it best to keep them home and not take them to Sunday School or to be around other children in case they still had a touch of fever, etc. I didn't want anyone else getting sick and didn't feel they were quite over the sickness, but today is a much better day for them and of course for Papa and Me! I think I take it harder with the grandbabies sick than I did when my own boys were sick! It's just different when you're the "grand parent". I can't explain it, so I will spare you my attempt to explain "grand parent-hood"! :) I thank you all for responding to the post about Alayna. I love being around children, for they always have a "lesson to teach" if we STOP, LOOK, and LISTEN!

I received a comment from Anonymous and I want to tell you (whoever you may be) that I am glad you read my "musings on life" and hope that I say something that will help you in whatever need you may have. God is always near no matter where we may be in our walk with Him.

Until I post again (which may be in a few minutes or tomorrow...you never know) have a beautiful evening and may God bless you abundantly!

Child Trust

Upon awaking this morning, Alayna had fever and has been sick all day with aching, coughing, headache, and chills. She wanted to get in the bathtub to get warm and so she could quit hurting. I ran her water and made her comfortable, then walked into the kitchen to make a list for my husband to run to the store. I always have my ears tuned for one of the girls in case they are to need me, and I heard a sound coming from the bathroom where Alayna was. I quickly recognized Alayna's weak little voice as she sang, "God you're so good! God you're so good! You're so good, to Mimi and me!" She continued: God answers prayer! God answers prayer! God answers prayer, He's so good to me!" I almost couldn't finish the list for the tears in my eyes. I peeked in on her after she finished singing, and she had her head lifted up to heaven with her eyes closed and her lips were moving. I'm sure she was praying!

A Prayer Request: Will you please join Alayna in her faith and pray for God to heal her, so she can feel good tomorrow for church? I appreciate you all for praying with us for our precious little girl!

A thought: While rocking her and praying, I thought about how many times I have carried my situation for a whole lot longer than I should have, even though I knew God was waiting for me to give it to Him. God help me to have "child trust" and help me place my problems in your hands. I had to tell Him that I was "sorry" for not "trusting like a child".

Another FUN-filled Day

Today has been lovely with the girls. I couldn't ask for them to be any better than they are! Last night after church we went to eat and the waitress walked up and said, "Hello....I'm Mandy"! Alayna's eyes nearly bugged out of her little head and she said, "AHHH....My Momma's name is Mandy!" :) She wanted to order her own food so I said that's fine, so she said, "Can I have ummmmm...Macaroni and Cheese, please?" I thought "that is so sweet" then she turned to me and said, "Sometimes I forget to say please!" LOL! I told her she had done very well in using her manners. When we were leaving the waitress asked Alayna how old she was and she told her 5, then the waitress looked at me and said, "I have a one and a half year old, and if she grows up to be like her I will be so happy!" Well, I could have told her how that is done. Not by the way I raised our boys, but by the way I've watched Andrew and Mandy train their girls. Am I bragging? Maybe a little, but it is so FUN having the girls and I have to say it's because they are disciplined, trained and taught by loving parents and that's what makes the difference.

Guess what else....we went to eat lunch today and the waitress walked up and Wendell saw her name tag, so he told Alayna to ask the waitress what her name was.....you've probably guessed it....Amanda! Alayna was again SHOCKED!!!! LOL!

On another subject, but still about Alayna and the way she see's things. Are you ready to listen? This might talk to someone's heart. I hope it does.

I took the girls with me today as I did my walking around the neighborhood. That was quite a different workout! Pushing a very large stroller with two girls in it takes a lot of work! After about 15 minutes I told Alayna she was going to have to walk for a little ways. Well, when she got off of the stroller it was amazing how much lighter the stroller felt! She decided she was going to walk the rest of the way. We were walking at a pretty good pace and we were going to have to walk another 10 minutes to get back to the house. We arrived back on our street and walked passed our house a little over half a block, then turned around and headed back home. Alayna looked up and said, "Whoa! It's a long way back!" My mind immediately went to this thought: There are many people who have once known the Lord in the fullness of Truth who have been wandering around the "blocks of sin" and when they finally head back down the street heading for "home" they stop and say, "Whoa! It's a long way back!" After living their life away from God they just seem to think, "it's just too far back for me to get to Father's house"! When Alayna said what she said, I immediately said, "No Alayna it's not a long way back! Look it's just right there", and in her "child mind" she believed me and knew we would be home soon! So, whoever may be reading this that's been gone a long time I will end with part of a song Ronda wrote...."Come on home where you belong, you've been away for much too long and Jesus wants to take you back again." I love you and I'm praying for you who are weary, worn, and tired of..... "walking around the block"!

Ronda...I hope I quoted your song right. I think I did. If not, please forgive me.

FUN!

For the next five days we will be taking care of two little "sweetheart granddaughters", Alayna and Ashlyn while their Dad and Mom go preach in North Carolina. The girls bring me so much joy and laughter! Tonight while giving Ashlyn the last bottle for the evening she fell asleep. Alayna was sitting with us in the chair and was getting so tired and sleepy, yet not wanting to give into it yet, then she looked up and said, "Ashlyn's asleep! I think I'm asleep, too!" LOL! I got so tickled at her. I remembered times I was tired and sleepy, but couldn't close my eyes yet! Anyone else know what I'm talking about or is it just me at this "wonderful age" I'm at? Our family has laughed many times about one of our grandma's that "never slept". I'm beginning to be "her"! It's strange how we take on some of our parents and grandparents traits. This is one trait I wish I hadn't received. Oh well...that's the way it is. I think I may be "sleeping with my eyes open" so I will close them for now and maybe, just maybe they will get some rest!

Quitman 5th Anniversary Weekend

Oh, goodness! Ya'll are all so kind to have missed me so much! LOL! I have missed being able to blog for the last few days, but I did not have internet access. I received a text message today saying, "Are you sick? You still haven't made a post!" :) I haven't been sick, but I have been VERY BUSY since arriving home. Thank you for being patient!

Now, about where I've been and what I've been doing:

Thursday we travelled to Quitman, TX for the 5th Anniversary Services of Keith and Carla Clark. Carla was raised here in Wichita Falls and in Life Tabernacle and always said, "I do not want to marry a preacher, a guy in the air force, and one that has red hair." God had other plans and sent Keith to Life Tabernacle where he found truth, then God started working on Carla. One day she said the thought came to her that "Keith just might be the one you marry". LOL! The rest is history!!! She fell in love with a red-headed, air force man and he became a preacher!!!!! Bro. Keith is a great soul-winner and God called him and Carla to start a church in the town of Quitman. They have done a great job! A little over a year ago they received "Church In A Day" from the Texas District and within a day they had a brand new church building ready to have church in!! We were privileged to be in the first service in their new building, and Bro. Elms was the first one to preach in the new building. It has been our honor to know these precious people and we love them like our own kids. We had such a wonderful time being with them and their church family this past weekend. The presence of the Lord was so rich and we felt "right at home" with the saints in Quitman. We were treated like royalty by the Clark's and their church and I just want to say a great big thank-you to them all!

We were also happy to see Gene and Karla, Cameron and Chad. Gene lead the service on Friday night, and Karla and the boys played for the service. They did such a great job! Cameron and Chad are doing wonderful on the bass and drums!! WOW! Kenny and Karen Prince and two of their sons were in church with us, also. (Kolten and Kory)

It was a very special time being with these three families. They are all part of our ministry and we are so proud of them!! It was hard to see them leave us and go start their own churches, but we knew that God had His hand on their lives and that He wanted to use them in a magnificent way for His Kingdom. It is so fulfilling to see the ministry of Life Tabernacle going forward in other cities! We have been so blessed to have these fine preachers and their families part of our lives!

I haven't forgotten Mallory and Taylor!!! These two Clark girls are just precious! I love watching Mallory worship the Lord as she sings in church. She is such a graceful young lady and she loves the Lord with all her heart! Mallory you have a beautiful voice!! Keep singing for His glory, and remember to start playing the piano in church REAL SOON! Taylor is a sweetheart, also! To me she is so beautiful with her red hair and porcelain skin. She is growing up so fast and is living for God. Taylor, keep following in your parents footsteps and they will lead you to be what God wants you to be! I love both of you girls and Bro. Elms and I are very proud of you.

Away

I am away for a few days with my husband. He is preaching the 5th anniversary services for Bro. and Sis. Clark this weekend. I will return to "my normal" blogging sometime next week. I sure hope ya'll don't miss me too much! LOL! Really, I hope you miss me a LOT! I guess that's just being honest. Everyone likes to be missed. LOL-LOL-LOL! I am definitely rambling tonight. I better go before I get too crazy! Goodnight or good morning, or maybe good day. It depends on when YOU read this silly note. I just hope it makes someone smile!

The Weekend Services

Sunday was a wonderful time at Life Tabernacle! Every year we have Bro. and Sis. C.M. Becton with us on the last Sunday of October. They are always a blessing to us and our church. This year I had Sis. Becton teach my class and it was so special having her in there with us. She didn't have to teach anything in particular, because just being with her and listening to her conversation is enough. She has a beautiful, sweet spirit and is also very entertaining. I love her so much and she taught a lesson on "Getting Beyond Ourselves". It was wonderful! Sunday morning and Sunday night Bro. Becton ministered and he is always so annointed! Those of you who know him understand the depth of Bro. Becton's ministry. We were privileged to here him play FOUR songs on the piano!! It was great!

After church Sunday night our sweet congregation honored us again on "Pastor's Appreciation Month". They are the greatest people on earth and we love them so much! I don't know what I would have done without my church family. They have been loyal, kind, true, unselfish, and they always honor us throughout the year! Thank you all for being awesome people of God! I think you know WE LOVE YOU with all our hearts!

Note: Thank you James and Jeremy for helping me with the picture taking! You did a great job! A few people have "red eyes" but that's because I didn't take the time to "edit" the pictures. I'm sure you will all overlook it this time. :) Thank you!

Monday Night Post

We had an INCREDIBLE weekend and I want to blog about it and will sometime tomorrow, "the Lord willing". Today has been full and I'm very tired tonight. I trust you all have had a wonderful day. I will write more later. Goodnight.....I love all my friends, family and "blog friends".

Hey Everyone....Today is Mandy's Birthday!!!!!

Today is Mandy's birthday and I want to wish her a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Mandy, you are so beautiful to me. You are not only beautiful on the outside, but you are beautiful on the inside. You are one of the best Mother's I have ever met and you love Alayna and Ashlyn with all your heart. You have so much fun being "Mommy" to the girls and I can see you in them, already! I love watching you masterfully "teach" the girls. You not only are serious in your teaching, but FUN! Who wouldn't want you as their "Mommy"? You are also an incredible wife to Andrew! There is no one that I know of that can make him laugh like you do. You are a "dream come true" for Dad and me. THANK YOU for being YOU! I love watching you "serve the Lord" because you are so genuine. There is never any pretence about you and we are PROUD to have you as our daughter! We love you!!