Memories...The Word Taught

Memories...oh how I love them!  I remember going to Grandma's house in Southern California in the summertime. I always slept with Grandma and she usually had the windows open, and a box fan running. I loved it!  On Sunday night after we got home from church, we'd go to bed and she would reach over and turn the radio on, tuning into "Hour of Power."  Pastor David F. Gray would be teaching. I hear her say, as if it were yesterday, "Oh, I love to hear that man teach!"  As a little girl I couldn't understand her love for his teaching, because I didn't understand everything he taught, but I did feel the depth of his words, and the reverence to the Word he taught. It made an impact on my heart and mind that has stayed with me my whole life. 

One of the things I miss about my husband, not pastoring a church are the many Bible studies he taught on Wednesday night.  He taught with the same depth and reverence his Pastor, Bro. David F. Gray did.  I've told him so many times, "I REALLY miss hearing you teach.  You always fed my soul."  

It's amazing the things that come to my mind.  If you've read this whole status update, then you must be a true friend.  Friends are the only ones who enjoy the ramblings of another friend. Bless you!  

#thinkinoutloud 

Little Impressions

The "little impression" came ever so gently, so gently that I hardly noticed it. I breathed a prayer, yet it came again, as if a feather drifting in the wind touched my thoughts. There was something about it that I couldn't ignore. I once again prayed. "Jesus, please keep your hand on Wendell as he walks outside today. Don't let him be hit by a car. I plead your blood over him in Jesus Name! Amen."

It was a little while later when my husband came back to the room. The first words out of his mouth were, "I've never come so close to being hit by a car like I was today. A policeman driving the car was coming right at me and when he was 4-6 feet from me, he jerked so he wouldn't hit me!" I breathed a prayer of thankfulness that my husband had not been hit, and that God had whispered into my spirit to pray for protection! There's power in prayer!

It amazes me how God works. I was just going about my morning when the "little impression" came. It came so softly that I could have brushed it aside and went about my day. I fully believe if prayer had not been made, if the blood of Jesus had not been applied, that Wendell would have been hit by a careless driver and badly injured, possibly killed. I'm so thankful God I listened to the "voice of God" that morning, and whispered a simple prayer.

"Oh how He loves you and me..."

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WISHES

Today is a very special day because it's my husband's birthday!

He is the greatest man I know and I love him more each day.  Steadfast, loyal, loving, solid as a rock, faithful...are just a few of the virtues he possesses.  Wendell is a true Christian!  I trust him with my life both physically and spiritually.  He has been my friend and sweet husband for 39 years and I'm more in love with him today than ever!  God has been good to us.  I wish him a wonderful day and another fantastic year!  Wendell, I love you and always will!

My Mother-In-Law

Oh my! What an AWESOME Mother-in-law I had! Tonight Wendell and I sat down and watched part of a video interview of one of the greatest ladies that ever lived. Pauline Elms was that lady! In 1985 Royce, my brother-in-law sat down with Mom and Pop Elms and interviewed them about their life. He had to RENT a video camera from U-Haul so he could do this project, and today no one could give me enough money to buy it from me. I wish everyone of my friends who did not have the privilege of meeting her, could have. She was very down to earth, loving, a great mother, a prayer warrior, a Christian through and through, faithful, loyal, and loved Truth and never compromised her love for it. You only have to look at her sons to know her and Pop did something RIGHT!

One time someone that was disgruntled said to my husband..."Your MOTHER called you to preach!" Well, that's laughable, but my husband was telling Mom about it one day and she started crying. She said, "Do they think I would have called all four of you boys to preach, and have you, Royce and David so many miles away? You and Royce in Texas, and David in North Carolina? Do they think I wanted most of my grandchildren miles away where I hardly ever get to see them, and hold their little bodies? I don't get to see them as they grow up and therefore do not know them like I'd like to? Thank God, I have Bernard and Sandy living just down the street, and have Joy and Patti around." Then she would wipe her eyes and say how thankful she was that all of her sons were living for God, and they were doing what God had called them to do. She expressed what a privilege it was to know that GOD would use them. When I stop and think about the sacrifice her and Pop paid to have four "preacher sons", I stand back and admire them all the more!

I've had many people ask me what Mom and Pop Elms did to raise FOUR sons to be preachers. You know, I've thought about that question a lot. I don't know if there IS an answer! All I DO know is, that Mom and Pop Elms were some of the most FAITHFUL and LOYAL saints of God that I've ever met. They made sure they supported Bro. Gray in all things. They never missed church. They were servants to those around them. They did what they did "as unto the Lord". Their home was filled with the presence of God. When they came home from church on Sunday afternoon, they talked about the message Bro. Gray had preached and how wonderful it was. My husband talks about coming home from school, and walking into the house looking for Mom, and within a few seconds he found her because he heard her voice coming from her bedroom where she was in prayer. He said, "Hearing her call my name in prayer has left an indelible memory in my mind." I've watched her as she took care of the sick, and did it expecting nothing in return. I've heard her in prayer as her Pastor was preaching. In later years, Bernard, her oldest son became Mom and Pop's Pastor, and they treated him and Sandy with the same respect they had given Bro. and Sis. Gray. I can hear her chuckle when something was said that was humorous, but most likely the next breath would be a prayer.

I could go on and on about this lady who raised my husband, but let me just say...she was one, incredible woman! I miss her and her wisdom. I would love to sit and talk to her for awhile about some things, but I know what she put into her sons, and somehow I feel I have her with me when I talk to my husband...my friend, my counsellor. Here is one daughter-in-law that realizes I am blessed because I knew her! "Thank you Mom Elms for loving me and for giving me your youngest son! I wish you could see the legacy you and Pop left behind. What you instilled in your sons is being passed from "generation to generation", and we ALL plan on meeting you and Pop on the streets of gold. I really believe it won't be long...it may be SOON!"

Hunting Trip

Wendell and I met Jonathan and Andrew in Wichita Falls so they could go on a long over-due deer hunt. I was so happy for all of them, because they haven't had much time together over the last few years. All three of them were so excited about spending time together on the deer lease. I KNOW I saw the "little boy" in all of them come to the surface as I watched them prepare to leave. They were no longer "pastors and a district secretary". They were just FATHER and SONS enjoying THEIR time! Royce met them at the lease and he shot a hog! I love it when Jonathan and Andrew have the opportunity to be with any of their uncles.
Jonathan shot this beautiful 10 point buck. He was sure happy about it!
Wendell was enjoying watching the deer.
Andrew enjoyed shooting two does.

When they came back to Wichita Falls I could hear the excitement in their voices. I know they are "all grown up" and all that stuff people say, but I sure enjoyed seeing their eyes twinkle with excitement, and I loved listening to my husband as he told and re-told the story.

Happy Mother's Day!!!!

Ok...where do I start? I feel like I am one of the most blessed women in the world! I had the most INCREDIBLE, BEAUTIFUL MOTHER on the face of this earth. She "feared the Lord", worshipped Him in the "beauty of holiness", and "prayed for her children" to "love Him with all their hearts, mind, soul and strength". She has been gone now for almost 8 years, but she lives on in her girl's hearts!

I had an AWESOME Mother-in-law, who raised FOUR BOYS to fall in love with Jesus, their Pastor, and their church. She was successful in her goals, because all four of her "boys" are Preacher's of the Gospel and have pastored for many years! She loved me with an ever-lasting-love, and she prayed for me many times through the years. I appreciate and love my wonderful "2nd Mother"!

I am blessed to have TWO Godly daughters-in-law for my "daughters"! I didn't have any girls of my own until these two came along and I have to say that God blessed me beyond measure when He gave me Brenda and Mandy! They are some of the most wonderful Mother's I have ever known and they are raising my four granddaughters to love the Lord and to worship Him in a beautiful way. I'm thankful for my "girls"!

I have two sons who call me "MOM"! What more could a lady ask for? They have always given me their love and shown me respect and appreciation for being their "Mom". I am a BLESSED woman and I recognize that fact. Both of my sons are preacher's of the Gospel and Pastor growing churches. I am thankful they've had the desire to "serve God", putting Him FIRST in their lives. I'm thankful they have honored me with their lives. My heart overflows with the abundant blessings of God!

I have two sisters who are very dear to me! "I love them, they love me, and we're as happy as can be"! :) They have their own beautiful families and they are very thankful and proud of them! I am BLESSED to have Ronda and Karla in my life!!! We love being together, spending time "remembering", but it's not in a "sad" frame of mind. We always talk about the wonderful things in life that we have experienced as "Lila's girls" and it's inevitable that we will end up laughing about "life's memories".

I am blessed because I have a husband who loves me and honors me in very special ways! I am THANKFUL for the man who has given me his love and support through the years.

YES, I am a blessed sister, daughter, daughter-in-law, mother-in-law, Mimi, wife and MOM!

I want to wish all my friends and family a HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! I know several of my friends who will spend tomorrow "remembering" their sweet Mother's. I want you to know I LOVE YOU and I am so THANKFUL to call you "friend"!

Everybody....have a WONDERFUL MOTHER'S DAY! Enjoy this Special Day to its fullest!

A Few Birthday Pictures

On Wendell's birthday we left Copperas Cove and drove to Andrew and Mandy's for dinner and to spend a little time with them. Since moving to Lufkin we haven't had much time to be with the family, so if we are close enough to either one of the boys we do what we can to see them. Andrew and Mandy took us out to eat, and we had a little birthday celebration.Mandy bought "birthday glasses for Wendell and the girls. As you can see, Ashlyn is "clowning".
Alayna wanted to take a picture with Papa. These are precious pictures and sweet memories.
We really missed Jonathan, Brenda, Savanna and Scarlet, but hoping to get to see them next weekend.

One thing I didn't mention in my last post about Copperas Cove was on Sunday night as we were getting ready to sing, I testified. Then I "took the liberty" to "celebrate" my husband's birthday. Of course, the church didn't know until I told them that something very special was happening on Monday. I asked them all to stand, asked the drummer for a "drum roll". As the drums were "rolling", I said to the church..."Tomorrow is Bro. Elms 60th birthday, and since he doesn't have his own church to celebrate with him, will ya'll be "his church" tonight and join me in singing Happy Birthday?" They were WONDERFUL in making "the moment" a festive one for him!!!! THANK YOU, Pastor Hendrick and the Copperas Cove Church for being so kind in wishing my wonderful husband a VERY HAPPY BIRTHAY!

To My Awesome Husband

HAPPY 60th BIRTHDAY

No words can describe my love for you! I want you to have the GREATEST God has for you, and whatever, or wherever it may be I'll be by your side...for always!

I LOVE YOU!

A Sunday "Hello"

I wanted to drop by and say hello to my friends and family. Tonight was a wonderful night in the presence of God!  We were once again at Balch Springs and we had CHURCH!  Worship and praise was heartfelt and accepted by God.  How do I know?  Because He was there!  "...where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty!"  It was wonderful!!!  At one point in the service Bro. Nathan sang the awesome song, "Through the Fire".  He was so anointed from the very beginning!  He blessed my soul as he was singing, and just about the whole church was on their feet in worship!  Then, as my husband was making some comments before preaching, a man came forward for "special prayer". When he came forward, others followed his lead and came for prayer.  We had a powerful time in the Holy Ghost!  For those who have awesome church all the time, you know of what I speak.  After the "prayer time", Wendell preached and it was incredible!  The church here LOVES preaching and they definitely "preach" with you!  It's so enjoyable!  

Have you ever been so thirsty for a drink of water that you couldn't get to a glass of water fast enough?  I have!  The same thing happens in a church when there hasn't been "fresh water" to drink.  But, when the "rain falls" those who are "thirsty" will drink it in!  There is nothing that satisfies the soul like a fresh drink of water from God!  I thank Him for visiting with us tonight. I feel refreshed in my spirit, and I hope you do too! 

I'm so glad I have all of you as "friends".  It warms my heart to know I can sit down and write on my blog, and there will be someone read it, then make a comment!  :)  I love hearing from you and love hearing what you have on your mind.  Let me encourage those of you who read, but do not leave comments, to do so.  It's not hard and I would love to hear from you!

I don't have a lot to say tonight so I will go for now.  Blessings to you all!  

Time to Laugh

LOL! I just get tickled thinking about what I'm fixing to post! LOL!

You've already heard about my "beautiful FALL" this week. WELL....NOW MY HUSBAND IS BROKEN OUT WITH POISON IVY! No, it's not funny, because he is pretty miserable. We do not have ANY IDEA where he got it!!!

It's amazing how "little things" can attack all at once! I just have to shake my head and say....."oh well....".

I think we could use a little extra prayer!!!! :)

Crazy How Things Happen

It can be a perfectly beautiful day...all things going great, then all of a sudden CRASH!

I was taking care of household duties, going about my own business when I came CRASHING to the floor!!!! Where did THAT come from? My right leg went straight out in front of me, my left leg went behind me and under my body as I fell on my back!!! The whole back of my clothes was soaking wet and I was hurting. What I didn't know was that my washer had a sprung a leak and there was a puddle of soapy water waiting for me to SLIDE through it! When I finally got my senses, and could roll over and get up, I went outside and turned off the water and there was water flowing out from under the motorhome, out of three of the "underneath compartments".
I am okay, although a little sore and achy. I thank God that the only "visible sign" of my fall is a skinned up foot! It could be a cast on my arm, leg, foot, neck, or back! :)

Isn't it crazy how life can be wonderful and something so "unexpected" can happen and turn your world upside down for a little while?

Yesterday we had some dark clouds overhead, but just passed the dark clouds was a beautiful white cloud with the sun shining through it. My husband said, "Look there! The sun is still shining somewhere." Yes! The "sun is still shining somewhere". It may not be in "your world" at this moment, but someone is enjoying the "sunshine".

One thing I love about my life with God is that I might have a "dark cloud" overhead one day, but He won't let it stay for long!! He will make sure that in the middle of my "overcast day" the sun will shine and break through the clouds, giving me the warmth of His presence to make it!

Counting the Days

It's always about the third or fourth day of the "Brother's Reunion Week" that I start missing my husband....terribly! I thought it would be better this year, but I'm still ready for him to come HOME!

I am still with Jonathan, Brenda and the girls. We are having a wonderful time together. I just wish Wendell was here to enjoy it with me.

Ok...I won't whine too much more! :) It's just a couple more days and he will be back!!!

I talked to him on the phone this morning, and I heard the "brothers" laughing. LOL! There is nothing like being with them when they "get on a roll"! If you want your spirit lifted, just hang around one of the Elms Brothers and you will feel better in just a little while. They have their serious times together, but there is never a NEGATIVE time. I've loved sitting around the table with them through the years when they started talking about the work of God. You can sense a deep devotion and respect to their "roots" and to their Pastor, David F. Gray. I love that about them! I just have to say THANK YOU to my husband and brothers-in-law for being FAITHFUL.....never wavering. I love you all!

Now...That's Funny!

Last night while I was blogging, my husband decided to go to bed. He was reading the Bible and after awhile I knew he had fallen asleep, because I heard the Bible FALL! He woke up, picked up the Bible and put it on the nightstand. This happens rather frequently with him so I didn't think much about it until this morning when he said, "I fell asleep last night just as the WALLS of JERICHO were about to FALL! My Bible HIT me in the face and fell to the floor!" LOL! Now....that's FUNNY!

I just had to "share" this with all my blogging friends. :) I hope you enjoy the humor in this little story.

Wendell, I sure do love you! :)

Sand or Gravel?

The other night I walked into the Concession Stand after a wonderful service with the Crusader's and was greeted by my husband with a smile, and with these words. "I might as well go ahead and tell you...." I stopped and looked at him to see what it was he was going to tell me. He had gone fishing with some friends and my first thought was, "You got an ant bite or came close to being stung by a red wasp." Of which, I am glad it was neither one! He can't afford to have either one of these things happen, because he is highly allergic to both of them. The doctor told him he needs to be extra careful because, "the next time could be fatal". Anyway, I was relieved when he told me "the story".

Before he left to go fishing he said, "I might not take my phone with me, because "so and so" seems to always lose his phone in the lake whenever he takes it", so Wendell thought it would be safer to just leave his. Then, he decided to go ahead and take it "just in case" someone needed him. When he got on the boat he looked around and found a real deep, "safe" cupholder to put the phone and glasses in.

They had a wonderful time catching fish! About 3 hours later Wendell went to get his phone out of the cupholder. It was still there just like he thought it would be, but when he got it out it was SOAKING WET! It had rained earlier in the day and the cupholder had quite a lot of water in it. Now, that is something no one thought to check!!!

Do you remember the OTHER iPhone he had a few months ago that was left on top of the car, it fell off, several cars ran over it, and I posted about the SMASHED iPhone? Well, now we have a WATER LOGGED iPhone!!!!! Oh, it looks good on the OUTSIDE, but the INSIDE is in BAD SHAPE! I could teach another lesson about THIS iPhone!

I felt so bad for my husband that I couldn't even get aggravated about it. I just shook my head and said, "Oh well....I guess you'll have to buy another one!"

We went to buy another one today, and wouldn't you know...there are NO iPhones to be found! They didn't even have them at Apple. They said they have sold out and the new one will not be out until July. We were in the store for 2 hours trying to get another phone set up!!! Finally, they called "tech" and they got the problem solved after working for quite a long time on the problem.

We got home and after several hours of my husband "messing" with the new one I think he has decided that when the NEW iPhone comes out he will be taking this one back and exchanging it! Of course, they told him he could when he bought it.

Bro. Graham preached a message at Camp Meeing about "sand in your shoes". It was fantastic! I think we have decided that some of the "sand we've had in our shoes" lately has turned itself into GRAVEL!!!! :) But, I guess "gravel" is really better than "sand", because you can pick the "gravel" up a lot easier and get rid of it. With "sand" it takes a lot more time and effort for it to be totally gone! Besides, it's just an iPhone that's ruined....not our attitude, or spirit, or anything that REALLY matters!