M.A.P. 2012 Was Special for Our Family

Our "kids" came to the M.A.P. Seminar this year.  Jonathan and Andrew will meet the board in February and will be getting Ordained in the Ordination Service at Camp Meeting in June.  Having them here at M.A.P. was very special for all of us.  We are very thankful they are part of the United Pentecostal Church, and are the Pastor's of two wonderful churches in our district.  God has been good to Wendell and I, and our sons have honored us with their lives.  Thank you Jonathan and Andrew for being the men you are.  We are also very, very thankful for our "daughters", Brenda and Mandy!  I want them to know we couldn't have had two daughters of our own any more committed to the things of God than they are.  Thank you both for your steadfast, faithful, commitment to God, our sons, and your churches.  You are both beautiful and we love you so much!  Thank you for loving Dad and I like you do.

Following are pictures we took on the last night of the seminar.  I'm so glad we got the opportunity to take pictures with our special guests, Bro. and Sis. Wayne Huntley and our Texas District Superintendent and his wife, Bro. and Sis. Danny Russo.  We love and respect these two couples very much and thank them for taking the time for this "photo shoot".

Our sons, Jonathan and Andrew with their Dad and Bro. Wayne Huntley.

Elms Family with Pastor and Sis. Wayne Huntley

Jonathan and Brenda, Bro. and Sis. Huntley, Andrew and Mandy having fun taking pictures.

It was special having Bro. and Sis. Huntley here this year.

Brenda, Patsy Huntley, Me, and Mandy

Jonathan and Brenda, Texas District Superintendent D.R. Russo and Sis. Russo, Andrew and Mandy

Elms Family With Bro. and Sis. Russo

Jonathan and Brenda

I think the "nerves" finally let go after a very intense weekend of ministerial training.

I'm glad we got a good picture of them before this happened.  :-)

I love to see our kids so HAPPY!

Andrew and Mandy (they held themselves together pretty good)

I think I spoke to fast!  Now it's our turn to have fun as Andrew and Jonathan look on in "wonder".

We did "pull ourselves together".

I think Mandy was teaching me to dance.

I think I got it! 

I want to say a great big thank you to Shayla Smith for taking the time to be our photographer.  She was so pleasant and fun.  We love you Shayla!

Our Weekend In Beaumont

Where do I begin? The weekend with Jonathan, Brenda and the girls was wonderful. We had a great time just being together, shopping, and "hangin' out". (that was for any young people that read my blog) LOL!

Sunday services rolled around and we were so refreshed from being at The Apostolic Church. The presence of God was so sweet and strong. There was unity in worship and His presence touched us all. Sunday night, part of the service was focused on the new school year and those who are involved in any aspect of the educational system, and for the "kids" that were getting ready to start school today. Each student was given a prayer cloth to take with them into the new year, and if they wanted they could put it in their back pack and carry it to school with them. Then, we had special prayer for all of them. It was very touching and I believe God sent angels to surround each one as they began a new school year.

I taught Brenda's class Sunday morning and at the end of my lesson I quoted the song, "Fear Not My Child". So, after lunch with the church leaders and new members, Jonathan and Brenda practiced it, and I was privileged to play the organ with Sis. Karen Hughes as she accompanied them on the piano. Wendell and I enjoyed singing "No Other Name Has Meant So Much to Me". The saints seemed to really enjoy it. Several of them said they enjoyed the "new song". Some of you may have heard my husband say at one time that, "We are singing an old song tonight, but for those who have never heard it, it's a "new song". A "new song" is just one you've never heard before." That's my husband! He has a great philosophy! Maybe I can talk about that one later. :) One of the last things that happened in service, was the "Elms Family Quartet" which was made up of my husband and I, Jonathan and Brenda. Yes, my husband sang the bass! :) We had a good time of rejoicing as we sang "Lord, I've Never Been This Homesick Before". All of us who have loved ones on the other side were reminded that we will see our loved ones again! I love the second verse...

I can see the family gather; sweet faces all familiar.
No one’s old or feeble anymore.
This lonesome heart is crying; think I’ll spread my wings for flying.
Lord, I’ve never been this homesick before.

After church there was a surprise birthday party for Bro. Cole. He turned 80 years old! We love Bro. Cole so very much, and respect him highly.School has started and I am glad! I've been feeling the excitement in the air from children about the first day of school. I love to hear the comments from parents about their house being empty now. Some are sad, some are very happy! That's just the way we're all made up, I guess. I am one of the "happy" parents. Of course, I had some mixed emotions from time to time, but for the most part I enjoyed my boys being in school. It was fun to watch them learn, and I enjoyed the routine of things. Life seems to "get back to normal" when everyone's on the school schedule. I enjoyed taking care of the house in the mornings and preparing for the evening meal. I enjoyed my time at lunch with my husband. I enjoyed hearing all the stories from school. And, I enjoyed the "to bed early" rule we had. You might as well enjoy life as it comes! So many people live wishing this or that was different, but kids are meant to grow up, and when you cut the "apron strings" and let them "take wings and fly" you'll be proud of them, IF you have prepared them for the "big world", and IF you have "done your homework" while they were "under your feet".

Since we were in Beaumont today, I got to see Scarlet go to her first day of Kindergarten. She was so excited! Savanna started 4th grade today. She had a hard time going to sleep last night. she couldn't hardly wait for this morning to get here. Alayna is in 2nd grade now. I'm waiting to see some pictures of her first day of 2nd grade. I know she was adorable, as always. Ashlyn still has a couple years before she's in school. She's going to be "something else"! I laugh just thinking about it. Hopefully, we'll get up to see them soon.

I'm rambling tonight, but maybe you can make some sense out of what I've written, and AT LEAST I'M BLOGGING!!!!! :)

Been Moving In

Tonight as I sat down at my computer I downloaded pictures from my camera, and had over 200 that I had not tagged or filed! All I can say is, "shame on me"! :)

We have been moving and the house is looking good. I still have some organizing to do, a little more decorating, and I'm looking forward to getting it all done next week.

Jonathan, Brenda and the girls came up and helped us and it was so nice having them "home"! It felt so good to have them in OUR house. The girls went outside on the deck and I snapped this picture of them.I haven't taken any pictures of the house, but I'll get around to it someday. One thing I'm real happy about is that I got to use most of my decorations and furniture that I had in my bigger house! I really didn't think I would be able to use them. The house has definitely taken on the "feel of my home".

Last night I was in the bedroom and started feeling a little lonely, so I went looking for Wendell. He was in the office and when I walked in and looked around he asked me if I needed something. I answered, "No, the house is so big and you're too far away." He laughed at me! How could he? I've been use to a 40 foot motorhome for over a year, and the "nurse's station" at the campground for a few months, and I could be near him at all times! Now, we had our own "space" and I was missing him! LOL! I'm sure I will get use to "being away" from him again, but it might take awhile. I LOVE being with him!

I have so much to write about, and when I DO find the time to "catch up" I plan to go all the way back to our California Trip and walk through the "happenings" over the last few months. I really have been missing my time writing on my blog.

I hope all my friends and family are doing good. Let me hear from you sometime!

For Those Who Still Read My Blog

Busy, busy, busy! Once again I've been too busy to turn on my computer and blog! If anyone is still reading my blog, the following is what I've been "busy" doing.
This past weekend we went to Houston so we could attend Jared Gurley's wedding. Ronda, Nathan and Nathaniel flew in from California, so Wendell and I went to visit with them. Gene and Karla also drove down from Wichita Falls, and Jonathan and Brenda came, so I'm sure it's needless to say, but we had a really nice time! Sometimes you need to be with family and this was one of those times. Something weird happened with my camera, but I still wanted to add this picture. This is what we did a lot of the time we were together. We always have so much fun!We got home Saturday. Took care of a few things then packed and headed to Wichita Falls to do some packing in our house. We haven't sold it yet, but we felt like we needed to go and pack! We arrived in Wichita Falls in time for the evening service at Life Tabernacle and surprised everyone! It was so nice getting to be in church at "home". Gene invited Wendell to say a few words and asked us to sing, so we did. It felt natural being there. :) We definitely felt loved! I didn't take a lot of pictures. I was either too busy talking and having fun, or working to much to think of it.

Monday rolled around and Rita and Tammy came over to help me with the house. Rita is amazing when it comes to packing the kitchen! It's amazing how many things she can get packed into a box! LOL! Tammy and I listened for instructions from her and did what she told us to do. :) Thank you, Rita and Tammy for your help! I could have done it, but it would have taken all week to get it done!

On Tuesday, Rita came back over and finished the kitchen while I went through the house getting rid of stuff we didn't need or want. We got so much done!!!!
Wendell worked HARD in the garage and anywhere else he found to work! That is just ONE of the many things I admire about my husband. He is a hard worker! I got a picture of him sitting in his "easy chair" that he misses so much. I love you, Wendell! Kenny came over and helped Wendell with moving some heavy boxes. Thank you, Kenny! I really miss my Music Room at home. Maybe someday I'll have another one. That will be nice! We drove home today. It was kind of quiet. We were tired, thoughtful, and ready to be back home in the "swing of life". We are praying ernestly that the house will sell SOON! It's a beautiful home, and it's very comfortable, and liveable, so someone ought to buy it. Maybe it won't be too much longer. I'm sure God knows exactly what is going on and I trust Him in all things. The "perfect timing" on His calendar usually isn't the "perfect timing" on our calendars. The "will of God" is wonderful to live in, so we are waiting on Him. I'm glad we know that He is in control of our lives. There is no way to explain the peace and contentment we feel, even though our circumstances are not perfect...from the "human way of thinking". If we could see what God see's we might understand "why" He does things the way He does. I just think it's best to "trust Him" completely with our lives. It feels "safer" resting in His hands!

Eight years ago on August 5th, Mother went home to be with the Lord. I miss her greatly! I would love to sit down and talk to her and tell her everything that has been happening in our family. I look forward to the day when we will all meet again..."in front of the throne". We will be able to talk for eternity!

Veteran's Day Weekend In Beaumont

I've been very busy today working on things at the office for future events, so I'm getting this post written later than I wanted to. But, it's been a productive day and that makes one feel good. At one point today all three secretaries were at the computer trying to figure out what I needed done! It was a real funny moment. Like...."how many Aggie's does it take..."Just kidding, girls! LOL!

Saturday we went to Beaumont to be there for the weekend. It had been quite awhile since we had been there so we were wanting to see the family and be in church with them. We had a wonderful weekend! We went around town and enjoyed time together. Saturday evening the "couples" were meeting to eat in Lumberton. It was so good to see everyone! They all made let us know they had missed us and it warmed our hearts. Here's a few of their pictures. Sunday morning in the service they had a time of honoring the Veteran's of The Apostolic Church. It was really moving when all of the men came forward who had served the United States of America in the Armed Forces! There were veteran's from World War II, The Korean War, Vietnam War, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Also, those who served in Peacetime were honored.At one point of the service Bro. Randy Hughes asked for the men to share a memory with the congregation. He gave the microphone to one gentleman who started to speak, then started crying. You could feel the "meaning" of his tears. Bro. Hughes also called for a "moment of silence" in honor of those who are no longer with us. Thank God for those who have fought for our freedom. It was all very touching!

When we walked into the sanctuary for Morning Worship the presence of the Lord met us. It was as if a warm blanket of His presence covered us. We were refreshed once again in the presence of the Lord. Thank you Apostolic Church for following the leading of the Holy Ghost! You blessed us!

After service the Spanish Church served a delicious meal!!! WOW! The tacos, beans and rice were SCRUPTIOUS! During the dinner one of the men in the church brought Jonathan a belated Birthday Cake! We had to cut into RIGHT THEN! It was DELICIOUS! Sunday night I was invited to play the organ for service, and I had a wonderful time. Some of the songs I had to "feel my way along", but I don't think it sounded "too bad". :) I did feel "at home" playing again.

Savanna and Scarlet are growing up more everytime we see them. They're still as beautiful as always! They enjoyed some time with Papa.

Life, Circles, and Storms

Does life ever slow down?  I don't think so, and that's okay with me!  We are in Mineola tonight, preaching for Keith and Carla Clark in Quitman tomorrow.  We had a great time with them tonight.  I will blog about the weekend AFTER "the weekend".  LOL!  I know I'm "going in circles", but that's the way life has been for a lot of people lately.  

With "IKE" hitting so forcefully, many of our friends and their churches have been affected. Jon and Brenda had some damage from water coming in through the roof, but they will get it fixed and all will be well.  I'm glad it wasn't more than it was.  We are just now getting ALL the power on at the District Offices.  The grounds are getting cleaned up from the limbs and trees that were damaged, and things are slowly getting back to normal.  Our "home" is still in the shop.  It's suppose to be ready sometime Monday, but we're not counting on it.  We know how those things go, so we've learned to relax about it.  

Here's a little humor to help get your mind off of your problems:  We have been in so many hotels lately that we don't know which way to turn when we walk out of our room!!!!  Is that because we're getting OLD, or is that what happens when people travel a lot?  :)  What's really bad is when you get up in the middle of the night and run into the WALL! Your nose might look funny for a few days, but at least you FINALLY "find your way" back to bed!!! LOL!

Back to storms:  The weather has been BEAUTIFUL this week!  It's amazing how during a storm you think the skies will never be blue again, but every time, the clouds and rain go away!  This song is one of my favorites.  

Someone said that in each life,

 some rain is bound to fall.

And each one sheds his share of tears,

And trouble, troubles us all.

But the hurt can't hurt forever

And the tears are sure to dry;

And it won't rain always,

The clouds will soon be gone.

The sun that they've been hiding 

has been there all along.

And it won't rain always,

God's promises are true.

The sun's gonna shine

 in His own good time,

And He will see you through. 

BE ENCOURAGED!  GOD IS IN CONTROL!

Catching Up

As everyone else...we've been busy, busy, busy! I think that is the "end-time" word. "Busy" is the word I hear a LOT when I talk to others! "Busy" doesn't necessarily mean that you've been doing something that HAD to be done, it just means, "I've been doing a lot of things". :) You know, like having fun with the kids and grandkids! That's the "kind of busy" I LIKE!

Last Friday, Jonathan and Brenda came to see us. They needed some time off with the girls, and I think they KNEW we NEEDED to see them. We had a wonderful time with the kids here. I found out real fast that I don't need a house to have fun in. Don't get me wrong, I WANT a house so we can spread out, but I don't HAVE TO HAVE ONE to have FUN! You'll see what I mean in the slideshow.

Last week we also had the MAP Committee Meetings, and we were privileged to be part of them. We had a wonderful time! A lot of discussion, reflection, and decisions were being made for the next MAP Seminar in January. If you want to know more about MAP you may go here. I was asked to teach three classes this next time, and I am really looking forward to it. I can't believe I am saying that, but I really am. After our meeting I got out my notes from when I taught "PrimeLife" at our church, and felt a stirring to teach once again. I actually felt an excitement!

Before our meetings began last week, we went to Ralph and Kaccoo's for lunch. (By the way, for all of you who miss Cattle Company here in Lufkin, they have a "Texas Menu" at Ralph and Kaccoo's that comes from the "Cattle Company" menu and recipes. And...their bread is DELICIOUS!) Well, I got sidetracked for sure, so back to what I was saying. We were sitting at our table and saw Bro. and Sis. Carlton Watkins come in, so we invited them to have lunch with us. We had a wonderful time visiting, and discussing things that were of interest to us. We have been in the same district for years and to my recollection this is the first time we have had fellowship with each other. Yes, we have spoken, and said all the "greetings", but never got passed the "hello's", "God bless", and "good-bye's". I can say I feel like we have made some new friends!

I look forward to some more "times of fellowship" with these good people. We also had some extra time with the McLaughlin's after dinner that night, and nearly talked our heads off! :) They are wonderful to be with!

I've been thinking about "friends and acquaintances" a lot lately. We have been in the Texas District for about 30 years, but since moving to Lufkin we almost feel like we are in a NEW DISTRICT! The place of our calling before coming here was many miles away from the "hub" of things. Now that we are re-located to this area we have found out there are so many preachers and wives that we have only "heard of" through the years, yet not met. There are so many towns back in the "Piney-woods of Texas" that we have never heard of, and there are churches in these towns! Please don't anyone feel bad at my "lack of knowledge". What I am saying is that we are thoroughly enjoying learning about these places, and now have the privilege of enjoying time with "new friends". We feel so blessed to have this opportunity!

In our travels I have sensed a great love for God, and for His Kingdom in the hearts of our ministers and wives here in Texas. They are wanting the best for the Texas District. They want their churches to grow and their people to be blessed! They don't want the world and all that it holds. They want to be a separated people to the glory of God, not for men's applause. If I am "dreaming" then let me "dream on". I choose to believe a "good report".

My husband and I have talked about our churches, and the way they do things. It's interesting to see how they "get the same thing done" through different methods. We have been in many services filled with worship, singing, and praises of God's people, and even in the diverse ways of each congregation we have experienced mighty moves of the Holy Ghost! When we come together in UNITY and PURPOSE, bringing praise to God for all He has done, and for "Who" He is, He can't help but come to us!

TEXAS is a GREAT DISTRICT and I can feel God's love in His people everywhere we go! TEXAS is moving forward in REVIVAL and GREAT THINGS ARE HAPPENING! I don't have any "doom and gloom" reports. I'm hearing a lot about REVIVAL and SOULS being saved. We are in a great harvest, and I'm glad to be part of it! TEXAS DISTRICT you have a lot to be thankful for. REJOICE and BE GLAD!

Note: To all those who are not part of our district, please forgive me for focusing on "us" in this post. I just had some things I wanted to say to those we are connected to. Thank you for understanding and rejoicing with us.

The Weekend

We are getting ready to leave for Beaumont to be with our family, and for the Ladies Tea tonight. We are looking forward to being with Jonathan, Brenda and the girls! Wendell said this morning that he can't wait to get there so he can hear Scarlett talk! LOL! She has such a cute, little voice, and the way she says her words is so CUTE! We also can't wait to feel Savanna's arms giving us hugs. She is growing up so FAST, so we enjoy every hug and kiss we can get! We will be staying over the weekend and attending church at The Apostolic Church. We will be back home Monday to have dinner with a friend who is coming for the Board Meetings next week. Then, work begins on Tuesday! :) I am going to enjoy being with the wives who come with their husbands who are on the board, and helping Sis. Russo with anything she needs me to do.

Ya'll have a great weekend!