Living In the Fast Lane

As you can see, I haven't stopped by for a few days, and the reason for that is I've been "tied up" doing some work in the District Office. Also, we've been traveling to Sectional Conferences. I am happy to report that there is a beautiful spirit of unity in our district. It's so enjoyable getting to visit each section and see friendship abounds.

I was at the office for about 6 hours today and while I was working on a part of the "new system" we are setting up, I felt a feeling of thankfulness wash over my spirit. As I typed hundreds of names of ministers and wives I thought how blessed I am to be a part of such a great group of people. Then, I thought about all of the names of those who make up the TEXAS District, and again realized there are a LOT of preachers who have chosen to be connected to something bigger than the world they live in. You know, we could all go off and possibly exist by ourselves, but we have found the beauty and strength of "being connected" to those of like precious faith. I feel SAFE here!

I'm not going to keep writing tonight, because it's time to go to bed and get some rest, but I trust you all have a wonderful Sunday, and when you enter into the sanctuary of the Lord I pray He will meet you at the door.

Blessings to you all!

Interesting Sunday

Today has been one of those days that I wish could have been different, but in the midst of sickness and pain I was able to still be in the presence of God. Wendell got sick a few days ago with bronchitis and evidently everything that goes with it, because the past two days has been terrible for him. Then, I had a strange pain hit me in my back, so needless to say, we haven't been good for anything or anyone.

I'm so glad God doesn't feel like we're not worth worrying about. He came to us even though we couldn't get dressed and "go to Him" and worship in a church someplace today. We were suppose to be with our dear friends, Carl and Veda McLaughlin, but it just wasn't possible. I am not writing this for anyone to feel sorry for us, but I would ask for a few extra prayers to be sent Heavenward on our behalf. We have a busy schedule and responsibilities to fill this week and really would like to be able to do them.

This morning we were blessed to "tune in" to Life Tabernacle, our home church in Wichita Falls, and was blessed to be a part of the worship and praise. We also loved hearing one of our favorite evangelists, and dear friend, Greg Henry preach. What a message he brought about "A Positive Repentance". Thank you Life Tabernacle for making the services available to those who are not there.

As the day wore on I knew we were not able to go to evening worship anyplace, so we decided to visit The Pentecostals of Alexandria. What a time we had in the presence of the Lord as we viewed from afar the heartfelt worship of the POA. We also enjoyed a message/lesson brought by Mark Morgan. As Pastor Mangun went back to the pulpit, after Bro. Morgan was finished, another sweep of the presence of God filled the sanctuary. It was wonderful! I want to say thank you to POA for being available to us.

I have said in the past that I am very thankful for technology. I can only imagine being a missionary on the other side of the world who gets to tune into any number of services here on our side of the world. It's wonderful to know that when you're going through a troublesome time and CAN'T get to church you can join with those who did, and get a touch from our great God. When you're alone, and feeling down because you're not able to "be there" with your friends, it's great being able to "sign in" and be a part of a church family. It really helps lift your spirit!

So...on we go into another week. I feel blessed to know Jesus, and to have you as my friends. I hope your week is filled with the blessings of God, and if you happen to go through a trial, know there are friends "out there, somewhere" who care. If, for some reason you cannot connect with any of your "earthly friends", be sure and "connect" with your greatest FRIEND...He's always available. Jesus is there whenever you want to talk to Him. He's ALWAYS wanting to "be with you".

Jumping to Conclusions Isn't Fun

Definition for Jumping to Conclusions: to judge or decide something without having all the facts; to reach unwarranted conclusions.

"The only exercise some people get is jumping to conclusions, running down their friends, side-stepping responsibility, and pushing their luck!" ~Author Unknown

While looking at pictures tonight of friends and those they love I saw people who are living life "to the best of their ability". They have had troubles and trials, been tested and tried, yet I saw people who love God and are doing their best in serving Him. I had a warm feeling come to my heart while thinking about my friends and their families. In my mind I could see them all together and knew the love and loyalty they feel. Why could I imagine that? Because, we all have family gatherings and have wonderful times with those we love. There's really not a whole lot of difference in the human race when it comes to "relationships". We were made to share our lives with each other, and none of us are complete and totally happy if we withdraw from family, or friends. It's wonderful being with family, and it's also wonderful being with friends.

I have no idea why I am thinking along these lines, except I have found that none of us are perfect. I know there is pain because of sickness, grief in losing a loved one, and disappointments for many reasons. I know everyone cannot have a smile on their face at all times, although we all really try to "put our best foot forward". This is LIFE and there are times we just can't bring ourselves to be that "happy, bubbly" person we know others are expecting. Life can be hard! Life can be frustrating! Life can bring on unpleasant "surprises"and there's not one thing we can do to stop it!

We have a God who understands those "hard, frustrating, unpleasant times", and I'm so glad He does. "To be like Jesus" is a cry of my heart. I want to show compassion and mercy like He showed! I'm not wanting to sound like I "know it all", but I know "what Jesus would do" if He saw one of us laden down with an unpleasant situation. I know for sure He would not condemn us, and would definitely have an encouraging word. I think He would even pat us on the shoulder to let us know, "it's going to be alright". I'm sure that when we walked away from Him we would know we were loved. A song I love says..."Mercy...rewrote my life! Mercy... rewrote my life! I should have fallen my soul cast down. But, mercy rewrote my life."

Our human nature causes us to "jump to conclusions"! We try to "figure it all out" and decide if "THEY would have done something different THEY wouldn't be in the situation THEY are in. If THEY would have done it the way we would have, that wouldn't have happened". Yes, we've all heard it. Yes, we've all said it. We all know that none of us are perfect, so let's remember to "do unto others as we would have them do unto us."

As we walk along this road called LIFE let's lend a hand to those who have lost their way. Let's make sure when we are with someone who has decided to "jump to conclusions" that we don't fall off the cliff with them. There will definitely be a rude awakening when they hit bottom, and they'll need you to pick them up and help them get their footing again.

After writing my thoughts tonight I ran across this quote that I liked. I would acknowledge who said it, but there was no one listed. (sorry) If they happen to run across my blog and see I used it I hope they would be happy to be quoted. LOL!

"Jumping to conclusions seldom leads to happy landings."

As our friend Ron Mullings wrote: "People Are Pitiful...and We're All People".

A Memory of Mother

I don't know why, but for some reason while sitting in my recliner tonight a scene from Ladies Prayer started "playing" in my mind. Someone had given a devotion, we had taken prayer requests and given praise reports, then we went to our knees in prayer. Mother had been diagnosed with cancer and had been sick for some time, but she was able to come to prayer that night. I loved having her there, and loved to hear her pray. I had heard her voice in prayer all of my life and still loved hearing her as she walked into the throne room of God to talk to Him.

While we were praying, a lady who was hungry to find God came in, so I stepped over to speak to her and see if I could pray with her. She was needing someone to talk to, so I took the opportunity to try and help her. The ladies had been praying for sometime, then one by one they started getting up and waiting to see if we were going to pray with the "new" lady. Being the Pastor's wife I was wanting to take care of ALL situations. This lady needed me, my ladies were looking for direction on what to do, and they weren't about to leave if we were going to pray for someone who needed God. All of these thoughts were going through my mind when out of the quiet of the moment I hear a familiar, clear, sweet voice as Mother began to sing. It was a song I didn't know real well, but as I listened I sensed a "holy hush" that swept across the Ladies Prayer Meeting. Even though Mother had not been a Pastor's wife for many years she quietly took the lead as her daughter, the Pastor's wife was busy taking care of a "lost sheep".

I cannot tell you the strength I felt when I heard Mother's voice. It was as if she was pouring herself into me like she had all of my life, and once again I was aware of the "strong pillar of strength" she was to me.

Note: I know my sister's are wanting to know what song it was that Mother sang, but since I'm the daughter of Lila Marie, that gives me the right to "not remember". Our Mother said so many times when we asked her what the name of a song was that she heard and loved..."Oh, I don't know! It was a song about God, or Jesus, or something like that." LOL! How many times has she said that to us???? Well, I'm HER DAUGHTER and for the life of me I cannot remember right now...but I will!

Always a Christian

I recently signed into a Chat Room, of which I never do, but since it was connected to a service I was watching online, I thought it would be okay. I quickly found out that not everyone has the "same purpose" for being there. I didn't read ALL of the comments, but as time progressed I noticed there was someone who took the liberty to "be the judge" of those who were speaking or singing at the service. I have no idea "who" this person was, and don't care to know, but I was disgusted to think they called themselves a Christian. After the degrading comments about people I loved and respected, and "listening" to others who were defending our friends, I decided I was better off to get out before I found myself in the "mix". It would have been easy to get caught up in defending those I loved, yet I knew it wouldn't do any good, because when bitterness takes root in someone's heart there is no one that can do anything about it except the one that is suffering from it.

I guess some people think it's okay to talk derogatory of others since they are typing on a computer and no one really knows who they are. But, let me say...It doesn't matter if you're face to face, talking on the phone, texting, talking online...or any other means of communication...we must be Christ-like at ALL times. I know no one is "perfect", but if we profess to be true believers we should make sure our actions line up to our profession. Any other actions should not be acceptable to us. I know God is not pleased with a forked tongue, a back biter, a tale bearer, or a spirit of criticism. God, help us ALL to be CHRISTLIKE at all times!

Songs I Remember

I was rummaging through a box tonight and ran across an old songbook and while thumbing through it memories flooded my mind. One time when Keith and I were sitting in church together and the congregation was singing "out of the songbook", Keith leaned over and said, "Linda, let's sing it EXACTLY the way it's written." We both were in choir at school and knew how to read music, so we began. Oh my word! We weren't too far into the song when we realized our Pentecostal congregation wasn't singing the song the way it was written. We almost couldn't sing for laughing, because we sounded REALLY OFF from everyone else. I tried hard NOT to laugh for fear of being "called down" by Daddy, but it was impossible. I'm glad we weren't caught that time!

As I was looking through the songbook I had so many wonderful memories of singing around the piano with Grandpa Pound leading our family in song making sure EVERY part was sung. I saw him go find Mother in the house, take her by the hand, and start leading her through the house. I heard her giggle and asked, "Daddy, where are we going?" (I'm sure she already knew) Grandpa didn't answer, he just kept walking taking her straight to the piano. He then motioned her to sit down, and then he sat beside her. He had already picked out a new song he wanted her to learn and play for him. She started playing, then I heard him stop her and say, "No, that's not the right timing." They worked at it until they got it right, and the most beautiful music would come from the living room. In a little while Grandma would go sit on the couch with her "tatting" and listen and "tat". As a little girl I would come in and stand by the piano and watch Mother's hands sweep across the piano keys. I LOVED listening to the piano as Mother played, and loved hearing her and Grandpa sing! There are so many memories of when the family came together for Thanksgiving or Christmas. I can hear the Pound Family singing as if it were yesterday. Grandpa took the lead, or whatever part wasn't being sung, Mother sang alto, C.W. lead or tenor, and Uncle James sang bass. Those were glorious times in a little girls life.

Some of the songs I saw in the songbook I remember learning for the first time around the piano at Grandpa's house, then we would go to church in Bloomington, CA and Grandpa would teach it to the congregation. What fun we had! If Grandpa didn't hear EVERY part he would stop everyone and point out the people he knew should be singing lead, alto, tenor, and bass, and make sure they knew their part, THEN we could sing the song. The singing was like Heavenly music. I wish I could explain to you how I felt as a little girl when I would hear and sing with Grandpa leading the congregation.

Does anyone remember these songs?

1. I Have Found the Way
2. I'm On the Stairway to Heaven
3. When I Reach That City
4. Let Me Walk In the Light
5. The Love of God
6. When the Redeemed Are Gathering In
7. How Long, O Lord?
8. Living By Faith
9. He Is Coming - Vs. 1 When the Lord went back to heaven to prepare for us a place His disciples stood and gazed yup in the air....
10. Thank you, Dear Lord - Cho. Thank you, thank you dear Lord, for all you have done for me; You rescued my soul from the bondage of sin, and gave me victory.
11. I Know I'm Saved
12. Joy Bells In My Soul - Cho. Waves of glory, wondrous glory, Over me like the sea billows roll; And the joy bells, mighty joy bells, Keep a song ringing out in my soul.
13. Way Up In Glory Land - Cho. When I get inside the portals, way up in glory land. I'll sing and I'll shout hallelujah, way up in glory land.
14. In the Sweet Forever - Cho. In that beautiful city (beautiful city) Of the sweet forever (some happy day) Where the river of life (where the river of life) Goes ebbing by (goes ebbing by) We'll look upon the beauty (look upon the beauty) that fades no never (fades not away) And happy we''ll be (and happy we'll be) While the ages fly. (while the ages fly).
15. Take the Name of Jesus With You - I loved it when Daddy would sing this song at the close of the service, just as everyone was starting to gather their things together and head home.
16. I Want To Hear "You're Welcome"
17. I'm Bound for That City
18. When I've Gone the Last Mile of the Way
19. He Saved My Soul - Vs. 1 The Savior said come follow me and from your sins I'll set you free. He saved my soul, from sin and shame. When I bowed down upon my knees and cried "Dear Jesus, save me please." He saved my soul, O praise His Name.
20. When Our Lord Shall Come Again

I've gone through about half of the book and found some of the ones I remember so I'll stop now. If you happen to be one of the ones who remembers these songs, I know you're having your own special "memory moment". There was something about singing these songs that made our spirits soar and our hearts were made glad. Or, if it was a song about "being ready to meet Him" then you were made to think about your soul, and see if you were "right with God". There were many nights during "song service" conviction would come sweeping through the congregation and I had such a longing to be SAVED! Other times when we were singing about "being brought out of sin" and "what the Lord had done for us", there would be a great excitement feel our hearts, and there was dancing in our feet, because we had been "set free". I get excited remembering the great times we had in the presence of the Lord. I still get "happy" (as the old timers called it) when I go to church and we sing the songs of the redeemed! There's nothing like being in a Pentecostal power-packed service!

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!"

Blessed Beyond Measure

Hello Friends! I trust your week has been filled with the blessings God sent your way. My husband and I have been traveling and enjoying seeing ministers and wives of the Texas District, and I'm thankful to say that God has kept us safe.

As we have met with four different Sections this week, I started noticing a spirit of unity that is prevalent in our district. Unity is a powerful force against the enemy that loves to destroy what God has done. When we come together, reaching for the presence of God and supporting each other it feels so good when God comes walking into our midst! In each Section we have been blessed with the love we have felt. I love being part of the Texas District Family!

I've had many thoughts as we traveled this week. Let me share a few of them...

1. I LOVE my FRIENDS!
2. I ENJOY our LIFE!
3. I have CONFIDENCE in our YOUNG preacher's and their wives!
4. I am THANKFUL for the Word of God that is preached when we come together.
5. I am HAPPY my life has been surrounded by those who love TRUTH.

I have other thoughts and will share them with you at a later date, but let me leave you with just one more tonight...

6. I feel SAFE because I have FRIENDS in my life who love me and CARE!

Thank you and may your life be filled with His presence!

A Whole Lot of "Little Things"

The last two nights Wendell and I have gone to Sectional Conferences. We have enjoyed both of them. We've enjoyed the fellowship and hearing Bro. Russo preach. There's been a "good feeling" in the air!

Last night while traveling home, the Lord spared our lives from having a fatal accident. The truck that ran a stop sign going at a fast rate of speed came within a half a second of hitting us broad side. He never stopped! We kept traveling, but after driving a few minutes I turned to Wendell and said, "We could be dead right now." I felt a little sick to my stomach just thinking about what "could have" happened. I'm so thankful God keeps His hand on us as we travel. It seems the fact that "life is so fragile" has hit home way to much lately, so to be able to write on my blog tonight makes me really happy!

Years ago I sang a song that said..."It's a whole lot of little things that makes me love Him so." I wonder what all we could write down over a period of a few days that God has done for us? The "little things" that we take for granted everyday that God does would probably surprise us.

Tonight, at Section 3 Conference, Sis. Beasley, a retired missionaries wife, and my husband's Sunday School teacher when he was a little boy spoke for a few minutes in our ladies meeting. She told how at the beginning of one year she had challenged the ladies of her church to "keep a journal" of all the things God did for them. After about six months one of the ladies started having many problems, and was feeling frustrated and wondering if God was ever going to do anything for her. She picked up her journal and started reading what she had written. She was amazed at the prayers God had answered, and things He had done for her. She said after she read her OWN JOURNAL of the greatness of God, that she was encouraged and knew He would come through again. I'm sure it would do us all good to write down at least one thing God does for us everyday of this year. It would help us to understand how much He loves us, and cares about all the "little things" in our lives.

"This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most." (Hebrews 4:15-16 NLT)

As usual, I started out to write just a few lines tonight, but have ended up writing a lot more. :) I guess when I start typing my fingers signal my brain and says it's time to "think". I don't know if there is an explanation for how that works, but if there is I'll let someone else figure it out. I'm going to sleep!

Goodnight! Sweet Dreams!

Whew...I'm Tired...but HAPPY

As I've said many times since moving to Lufkin...this time of year is one of my favorite times. A lot is happening and we get to be involved in "building the kingdom of God".

MAP was wonderful this weekend. The Lord visited with us and touched us through the ministry of the Word and worship. It's always good to know His approval is on you and the effort that is put forth for meetings such as MAP.

It has been cold and rainy today. Snow has fallen in many places, but we haven't seen any. I don't think it will be coming our way, so we will just enjoy the quiet rain, cold atmosphere, and the FIRE in the fireplace. I love hearing the crackling of the wood, and feeling the warmth that's coming across the room to my recliner as I read, write, and enjoy resting this evening.

I've been on Facebook for a few minutes tonight and have loved seeing the pictures of the new fallen snow. I also love reading comments of friends telling about their services today, and how God did some great things at their church. To hear great reports makes my heart happy! I love hearing that God has filled someone else with His spirit, and someone got a touch they had been longing for. I love how God works on a "personal level". He knows exactly the needs of His people everywhere and performs miracles in our midst. "Thank you Lord, for loving us the way you do! Your mercy endures forever!"

I hope you all have a wonderful Monday. It's another day to serve the Lord with GLADNESS! Walk into your work place with JOY in your heart, a spring in your step, and a SMILE on your face. Let the world know He LIVES and there's still HOPE!

And So It Begins

The time for relaxing has come and GONE! Tomorrow evening begins one of my favorite times of the year. The Ministerial Advancement Program (MAP) starts tomorrow night when ministers and wives come for training. All levels for licensing in the TEXAS District, UPCI will be represented. (Local, General, Ordination) One of the reasons I enjoy it so much is that those who come are hungry to learn all they can about ministry, and improving in whatever way they can. It is a pleasure to be with these men and women who have committed their lives to the calling of God. Another reason I love this time is that I have the privilege of being part of it. I will be teaching some classes, and will enjoy being with the beautiful ladies that will be in them. We also have the opportunity of spending time visiting, and getting to know each other. Please say a prayer for all the teachers and participants that God will walk into our midst and speak to our hearts in a special way.

After MAP ends we will be starting our Sectional Conferences, so we will get to see many of our TEXAS District ministers and wives. I love it when we get to be around all of these wonderful people! These are the conferences where business is conducted that keeps the organizational machinery running well. Also, our Superintendent, Bro. Russo brings a message to all of us, and I always look forward to hearing from him. We will have a great time! God is moving in the TEXAS District and I am thankful! We get reports of revival springing up all over the district, and it's wonderful to hear how God is touching lives, bringing them to know Him. Isn't He a great God to have MERCY on all of us mere humans? His love still AMAZES me!

There's been a lot of WORK going on in the District Office over the last few weeks. It's been "exciting and mind bending" on those who are involved, but when you're moving forward to greater things it involves getting out of our comfort zone. It also takes a lot of work and dedication. Let me say, there are a lot of DEDICATED people who are working for a great cause and we appreciate and love them all.

This "busy day" comes to an end. It has been a good day! God has blessed us with His presence, His peace, and His strength. I trust you have felt His presence today. Maybe it was from a "word of encouragement" spoken by a "friend". Maybe it was a "smile" given from a "stranger". Or, maybe God came to you in a special way through His word as you read and meditated on Him. Whatever means He used to touch you, you were blessed. What more could one ask for? I'm so glad I know HIM!

What Does THAT Mean?

We have all been around someone that seems to ALWAYS be "out of breath" from having SO MUCH to do! When you speak to them and ask how they are doing, you get an AVALANCHE of words telling you how BUSY they are, and how they just don't know HOW this happened. I can hear them now..."I plan and plan what I'm suppose to do, but INVARIABLY something comes up and OBLITERATES my plans! I don't know what I'm going to do! I've got to have this done and there is NO WAY POSSIBLE that I'll be finished by the time it's suppose to be finished!" (panic-panic) Off they go TRYING to get all their work done. After all, they are the ONLY one that knows how to do ALL of that work, and NO ONE really cares to LEARN, so "Poor-martyr-me" runs off to accomplish the WORK ahead.

I have to laugh at these people. I'm sorry if you're one of those, but people like this make me laugh. Do they REALLY believe they are the ONLY ONE that can do that JOB?

I loved watching my Mother when someone like this came around. She was always such a patient, loving, sweet LADY. Nothing seemed to "ruffle her feathers" and when they did she hid her feelings very well. But, for those very close friends and family members who knew her really well, we could read her. For instance...she had a way of "pursing her lips" that let you know she was perturbed about something. She also had a "twinkle in her eye" that only those who knew her well understood what it was about. When she was "put out" with someone she knew how to "ignore" without them knowing she was a "put out" with them. Now, you must understand, that her family knew what was happening, and for SURE Daddy knew. She didn't have to say anything to him and HE knew he "shouldn't have done that", or "shouldn't have said that". :) I loved watching Mother in "situations". She was much a queen!

When Mother happened to be around "Poor-martyr-me" she had a phrase she used. After one of these people walked away from her she would say: "They're always in a TIZZY!" She would shake her head just a little, and go about her own business in her own patient way. It was very seldom you would see HER in a TIZZY! There were times when I would get impatient about something and she would say..."Linda, sit down and don't get in such a TIZZY!" Some people use the word "dither", but they mean the same thing. I have never thought to look the word TIZZY up in the Dictionary until today, so I decided to after all these years. I found out that it really means exactly what she meant..."a nervous, excited, or distracted state". I didn't know if TIZZY was a REAL word, or if it was a word someone made up. It's definitely in the Dictionary, so someone, somewhere, sometime decided it was a good word to use for that "nervous, excitable, distracted" person.

For those who seem to "live in a TIZZY" why don't you try to RELAX a little, get some help to accomplish the job you're trying to get done, and learn to ENJOY LIFE? There are a lot of things in life that really aren't THAT urgent! It's usually "urgent" that steals away from "important" and when life is finished you find you've left the "important thing" undone. Live life with purpose and direction. Don't run around like "a chicken with its head cut off". (another one of Mother's sayings) Do your work, perform your duties well, and see if you can actually go through a day without being in a TIZZY. People would enjoy being around you more if you were more RELAXED!

I'm learning to live life more relaxed and not worry over what others think of what I've DONE or haven't DONE. Over the last 10 years I have learned a little more about what's important and what's not. I understand that "life is but a vapor...here today, gone tomorrow", and it's only the time spent building my relationship with God and what I can do for Him, my family, and my friends that really is the MOST IMPORTANT THING IN LIFE. For it's through these relationships that you find purpose, true love and fulfillment. So, with 360 days left in this year, I want to do my best to ENJOY what I'm doing, when I'm doing it, then sit back and ENJOY less stress and for sure not get in a TIZZY!

Something to Make You SMILE

I couldn't resist to bring you a couple of pictures that I KNEW would make you smile! How can anyone resist smiling when you see FOUR SWEETHEARTS with Santa? Of course, I'm sure I'm the one that's smiling bigger than anyone else since they're my GRANDdaughters!
I love this one of Savanna. She loved her new doll I got her for Christmas. Alayna said the doll looks like Savanna. I think I have to agree.
To my four lovely granddaughters...I love you SO MUCH I can't stand it! (hugs and kisses to you all) I could squeeze you to pieces if I could get my arms around you right now!

There you have it "blog world". I hope these sweet pictures brought you a SMILE!

Life Moves On

It's already the 3rd day...well, since it's after midnight I should say we just entered the 4th day of 2011. It's unreal how fast time FLIES! The thing about that is...we better get our wings on and fly with it, because it's going to be Christmas before you know it! Oh, how well I remember hearing my Mother say things like that. WHEN did I turn into my Mother? I don't know when it happened, but I did.

Recently, I was "musing" about different things, and talking to my husband about them. We laughed about some of the things we were discussing, and then took some of them seriously. We weren't so serious that we became stressed, but we discussed how sometimes a person can see things differently than others. So, today I had a phone call from one of my sisters, and was telling her some of the things I was saying to my husband. I was so happy to find out SHE thinks the same way. Whew! I was so glad to find out I wasn't alone in my thoughts. :-) I said to her, "Sometimes I wonder about myself. WHERE did I get that from?" I knew if anyone would be honest with me my sister would be. She said what I've always known..."Well, we were raised by Murray Layne you know." We had to laugh, because we both knew she was right. We agreed that "being raised by Murray Layne" was a good thing! Our parents were quite a pair and raised us to have "common sense". Oh my word! Did I just hear that? What? "Keith...is that you?" I DID hear you say it..."Well...now...that's debatable. There's a lot of things you have, but "common sense" isn't one of them!" That's a brother for you! LOL! I can hear him saying those words, and hear the chuckle as if it were yesterday! I love how memories flood my mind at different times. That's one great thing about growing up in a fun loving family. When your loved ones are no longer with you, you have wonderful "memories" to enjoy!

I am typing with a smile on my face. In fact, I'm about to laugh because there are so many crazy things running through my mind. While growing up, we had so much fun in our house! There was a time when Keith, Ronda, and I would race to the phone to see who could answer it first. Daddy had told us to stop, but we continued. (Thankfully, he wasn't home that day) So, one day the phone rang and we went tearing through the kitchen. One of us fell, and one of us answered the phone, but it wasn't the correct "hello" like we had been taught. Instead of "hello" she yelled....M-O-T-H-E-R!!!!!!! On the other end of the phone our Grandma said, "Well, that's just who I wanted to talk to." LOL! Boy, were we glad it was GRANDMA calling!

When I was about 12 years old I loved reading Nancy Drew books. I could really "get into" the story, so much so that I lived a little "on edge". Keith knew how "jumpy" I was, so one night I left my room to go to the kitchen for something. Just as I was walking by the table I felt a hand come out and grab my ankle! I'm sure the neighbors heard me scream! Oh my word! He nearly scared me to death! Shortly after that I decided I was going to share part of the book I was reading with my parents. When I finished reading Daddy said, "Linda, I don't want you reading anymore of those books." I almost couldn't believe what I was hearing. I asked "why". He said, "You are so afraid of everything anymore, and there's no sense in you being so jumpy all the time." I started to protest, and he said, "You heard what I said!" Yes, I heard him, but I was so disappointed. After all, who wouldn't be "jumpy" if their brother was hiding under the table and grabbing their leg when they walked by! As I recall I never read anymore Nancy Drew books! Wouldn't it be nice if it was just "Nancy Drew books" that we had to worry about with our kids today?

This post is getting way too long. I started out by saying, "time is flying by". But it's never going so fast that you can't stop and "reminisce" about the fun times you've had in life. In fact, if you never stop long enough to remember...what's the use of "making memories"? So, my advice to anyone who might have stopped by to read my few scattered thoughts is this:

Live TODAY so that TOMORROW you'll be able to look back and "remember" what fun you had YESTERDAY!

Today - 1/1/11

The first day of the New Year is winding down. It has been a wonderful day for Wendell and me. I got a little more organized in different areas of my life, and relaxed. The beginning of every year is very busy for us, so it felt good to be home drinking in His presence and strength.

This coming weekend is the M.A.P. Seminar where we teach ministers and wives who are applying for or upgrading their license to another level in the United Pentecostal Church International, and it's always a wonderful time. The next week we begin our travels over the district for our Sectional Conferences. I love the traveling and having the opportunity to see many of the ministers and wives of the TEXAS District.

I am looking forward to this year. There is an underlying excitement in my heart. I don't know why I feel this way, but I look forward to great things happening in all of our lives. I think we ought to "go all out" for greater revival than ever before! It's time for a mighty sweeping of God's spirit and Truth to sweep our country. There are so many people who are hungry for a real experience with Jesus Christ, and there are many backsliders that are pondering in their heart about what they've always known. I fully believe when they lay down at night, and the lights are off that they are hearing the voice of Jesus beckoning them to "Come Home". His voice is gentle, His touch is soft, but His presence is very strong as He talks to their heart.

While I'm on the subject, let me ask the question...you don't have to answer...Are YOU one of the ones I'm referring to? Are you tired of running away from God? Are you hurting and lonely? Are you searching for HIM, but you know you won't find Him where you are? I beg you to COME HOME!

After receiving an Anonymous Comment on my post entitled "Stranger Danger" a song has kept coming to me. I know it's for someone who reads my blog, but I don't know WHO that someone is. Please listen to your heart as you read these words.

HE RESCUED ME

On the stormy sea of sin I was sinking
Never to rise again
The wind and the rains ‘round me crashing
Had battered and torn me within

But He rescued me, Jesus rescued me
From the cold dark waters of sin’s troubled sea
He rescued me, new life I can see
Jesus reached down in love
And He rescued me.

I could feel death’s arm around me
As I struggled for my life
I could see his angel waiting to claim me for his prize
In my hour of desperation I almost lost my mind
But somehow I cried to Jesus
And He saved me just in time.

Oh, how my heart cries for the "one" I am speaking to. I may not know you personally, or I may, but it doesn't matter. I beg you to let Jesus speak to you. Don't shut Him out! He will rescue you and bring you to a "safe" place. My heart has been heavy for that "one lost sheep" and I have been praying for you.

For my many friends...I am so blessed to have you in my life. I trust you will all have a successful 2011. I don't know what your goals are, but I know if you want something bad enough you will get it. It's not easy to discipline ourselves to get to where we want to be, but it's worth it. Let's join our hearts and hands with the One who can help us. Jesus will always be there to bring strength in the times of weakness. Oh...how I love HIM!

Blessings...

2011...Just Around the Corner

It is now 11:21 PM in Texas, and I have been thinking about 2010. There has been a lot of things happen over the last 12 months. Some happy, some sad...and God has been FAITHFUL through it all. He's always been by our side and has given us strength to face whatever the obstacle. I'm so thankful He has stood by us all the way!

I always get excited when the "old year" is coming to a close. I love the fact that the "new year" has yet to be written on and we have the chance to change those things we want to change, and to strengthen areas of our lives that need to be strengthened. There's a new year getting ready to be born! I already hear fireworks going off from those who are celebrating, and that's alright, but my heart is having it's own "fireworks of anticipation".

We are just 35 minutes away from opening the clean white pages of 2011!

I wonder...what great things will happen this coming year?
I wonder...who will our new granddaughter look like?
I wonder...which backslider will be the first one in the altar this year?
I wonder...how many souls will come to know Him in the fullness of truth?

And...I wonder...will Jesus appear in the clouds and take us all HOME?

What a great year awaits all of us. What are you planning to do with it? I hope you're making God-centered plans for the new year. I want to be better in many things, and I'm going to work towards "being the best I can be".

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all my family and friends! Thank you for another great year of friendships and love. I wish you all the greatest God has for you, and love you more this year than I ever have! YOU are wonderful!

May God bless you in 2011! Let's celebrate His goodness!

I'll leave you with one of my favorite pictures of 2010. In November we were invited to preach for Bro. Huntley in Raleigh, NC, AND he invited us to go hunting with him and is sweet wife, Patsy for a couple of days. Here we all are before heading to the deer stand! By the way...Patsy Huntley shot a deer! It was my first experience of sitting in a deer stand. What fun we had!

Stranger Danger

Sometime in my grogginess this morning I prayed a prayer I have prayed many times. "Lord, keep Jonathan and Brenda, and Andrew and Mandy in the Truth. Don't let anything or anyone turn them away from what they know is RIGHT." I sleepily mumbled and thought nothing more of it. As a parent I have full confidence in my childrens walk with God and know the love for Truth that is in their hearts. But as I have said many times in their growing up years..."I trust YOU, but I don't trust the devil." Our sons are grown men and Pastor two great churches. They are both married to beautiful young ladies that love truth, love God, and love the ways of holiness. I am not worried about their walks with God. I could go to either one of their churches knowing that I would be led in the ways of righteousness and holiness, and I would hear truth preached. I am confident in their relationship with God, but I'm also aware of the "roaring lion that's walking about seeking whom he may devour".

My husband and I were at lunch today talking about this very thing when he made a statement that I will not soon forget. Many times he will say little quips that are simple in thought, but deep in meaning and this was another time his words caught my attention. He said: "The devil always wears a smile." That's it! He said it without fanfare. He wasn't in a "preaching tone". He just said it and he didn't have to say much more to impact me.

Satan is in the business of deception, and he's a good salesman! If you're not aware of what he's doing he will sink his deceptive claws into your spirit so gently that you will not even feel the tearing of your heart, then lead you straight into false doctrine that is deadly. After he has done his damage to you he quietly walks away chuckling to himself, and goes searching for another victim to take to hell with him. His prime target is the ministry and their families. If he can get them to fall he knows there will be untold hundreds of people that will be affected. They might even question God if their Pastor/Preacher goes astray! He "smiles" to himself and says, "Yeah...let me get my hands on the ministry and their children and I will destroy the church of the living God!" Slowly, meticulously, he works, and "smiles" his way into the hearts of those we love and we sometimes stand by watching, because we are too busy in our own world and really don't want to get "involved"!

I saw a video clip on a friends Facebook page this morning that really got me to thinking, along with some other things the Lord quickened to my spirit. It was a "staged abduction of a child" and over a period of several hours NO ONE stopped to help. Finally, someone took action and decided they needed to DO SOMETHING! It's not only the child that is being abducted "on the street" that should concern us, but our children are being "abducted spiritually". Are we going to walk by those who are being abducted by the deceptive spirits walking around "with a smile on their face" and do nothing? Children are in danger! They are crying for our help! Can we HEAR them?

Listen...listen closely...

"Someone please help me! I'm reaching for you! I'm asking for your help. Please don't shake your head and sigh as if there is nothing you can do, then keep walking! You give me no hope when you act as if nothing is wrong. How am I suppose to act when I am approached? What am I suppose to do? What am I suppose to say? How do I protect myself? Please be open to my call for help! Please stop and get involved! If you don't help me, then who will?"

I appeal to all of us today to STOP and GET INVOLVED in the salvation of the generation following us! They are counting on US! I want to be saved and I want my children and grandchildren dancing on the streets of gold with me. I will not sit idly by and do NOTHING!

Christmas Memories 2010

Today has been a quiet day in my house. It feels so empty! Empty of decorations, empty of laughing little girls, empty of banging pots and pans in the kitchen as our daughters work to keep it all picked up, empty of deep "men voices" discussing things of interest. Yes, my house has felt empty, but my heart is full of all the love and memories we have from this week of Christmas! There is nothing like having our children and grandchildren home for the holidays!

It has been FOUR YEARS since "the kids have come home for Christmas". The last Christmas we had in our home was in Wichita Falls! Since we share with the girls families every other year, the last Christmas the kids were suppose to be with us, we were living in our motorhome, so WE went to the kids house (Jonathan and Brenda's) and had our "family Christmas" there. We had a great time! But, this year I was REALLY ready to have Christmas in our home! If you could have seen inside my heart you would have been able to see a little girl jumping up and down with excitement! I could hardly wait to hear the door bell ring and to open it to excited, happy, smiling little girls and feel their arms around my neck! I couldn't wait to hug my grown sons and their sweet wives (our daughters) and to hear...."Hello Mom!" Yes! I was excited and standing beside me was my husband who was like a little boy. I could almost see him shifting from side to side, not able to stand still because he was just as excited as I was!

We had a wonderful time in our "new smaller home" this year. I was concerned that it might be too small, but everyone got moved in to "their" room, and was happy. As the week went on I told Wendell that I kind of liked having a smaller house, because everyone had to be in the same area of the house...most of the time! I love being "together"! I am sharing with you some of our pictures from this past week. My heart is full and running over with thankfulness for another year of blessings and happiness!

Wendell read "The Christmas Story"
My Mother's Bible
The granddaughters listened intently
Ashlyn placed Jesus in the Manger
Here is one happy, spoiled, loved Papa
And...a HAPPY Mimi and PapaWhere's Santa???? Here he is!
Opening gifts began







God BLESSED us with FOUR granddaughters after us having TWO sons! Now, the doctor says the baby that's on its way is another GIRL! FUN! FUN! FUN!

Several years ago we decided to give the parents of these awesome little girls, money. But, I cannot write a check, put it in a card and hand it to them at Christmastime! For me, part of Christmas fun is opening gifts, so I try to figure out a way to give the adults their "money gift" so they have several packages to open.

Andrew is giving me that "look" like, "Mom, what are you up to now? I can't hardly wait to open it!" LOL! I have to admit that I have a lot of fun shopping for these "little gifts". In fact, I was standing in the aisle of one store trying to figure out what to do when one of the ideas came to me and I started laughing just thinking about the reaction. I had spotted what I call a "Shower Foo-Foo" and decided right then and there that I would get a bunch of $1.00 bills and fold them up real small and stick them in the "foo-foo ball". So, I did! I took 50 of those little bills and made a "money ball". I think I have more fun than they do figuring it all out! Although, I'm SURE they enjoy the money. I always seem to come up with different ideas from year to year. I'm hoping I don't run out of ideas very soon! There were more "money gifts" to follow on this night, but it would take too long to tell you all about it.

I think Jonathan got his gift opened first.

"Great idea, Mom!"

Jonathan counting his money...making sure it was all there.
Andrew got all of his...
Mandy seeing what she got. By the smile I see, I know I've done well. :)

Brenda's happy!
I love gifts!

"Santa" even gets to open a gift...or two.

The "traditional ending" of a great night!Evening Christmas Dinner. Totally relaxed and thankful...
Another year has swiftly passed, and God has been FAITHFUL once again! Thank you, Lord! And, thank you our wonderful family for such an awesome time this year!

Mimi...What If...

It has been a "hustle, bustle time of year" around our home, and we have enjoyed our family being with us so very much. I will post pictures and a post later, but our little Ashlyn, three years old said something to me as she was getting ready to get in the car to leave to go home with her parents that will not leave me alone. After all of the gifts she received for Christmas her little mind went back to the "real reason for it all." I can hear her little voice as she asked..."Mimi, what if we were all in one room and all of us opened just one present, then...JESUS walked in?" I answered by saying, "Oh, Ashlyn that would be AWESOME! That would be a whole lot better than Santa Claus, huh?" And to that she replied, "Yes, ma'am!"

As this day has been passing by I find myself in the quiet of my home. The kids are gone back to their homes, my Christmas decorations are all put away, and my house is clean, so I am relaxed and pondering over the Christmas holiday, and Ashlyn's voice keeps resounding in my mind.

I sat down at my desk to do some updating on my computer and decided to check the blog world. My sister, Ronda posted the other day about the song that follows.



Out of all the new "things" Ashlyn received for Christmas she brought me back to the reality of what it's all about. JESUS...you're the real reason for it all. Help me remember in my "grown up world" to welcome you into the activities of life, because..."Of all the gifts I may receive, there’s only one I really need. And it’s Your presence, Your presence for Christmas."

Christmas Fun

The last few days has been so much FUN with our family at home! We are having a great time being together. Laughing, talking, eating, playing games, relaxing, and just being together is what it's all about! I hope you're all having a wonderful time celebrating the birth of our Savior, and showing love to each member of your family and your friends. RELATIONSHIP is what matters MOST in life. Thank you for your love and friendship through the years.

Here's a sweet picture that will bring a smile to your face. These are our four granddaughters on Christmas morning as they were waiting to open their stockings from "Santa".

(L-R). Savanna, Alayna, Scarlet, and Ashlyn.