a refreshed heart.

Friends! Fun! Food! and Favor!

2009-08-22T14:53:00.000-07:00

Can I just tell you?...I have felt the Lord's favor this week. Sweet favor. Undeserved favor.

And it all began Monday.

I love to entertain, love parties, love cooking and boy do I love my sisters-in-Christ! I had the sweet privilege to have my bloggy buddies Jean Stockdale and Fran Thomas for lunch on Monday. We sipped tea, lunched and talked!...(did I say we talked?!). Put three women who love the Lord and have been called to teach together and you'll hear some talking! (none of those awkward silences around here...*grin*).

Jean has taught a Moms group at her church for over 20 years. In fact Fran went to her class many years ago when her children were younger. Well, Jean is just "a tad" bit older than we are...(she's entered that wonderful season of grandbabies.) So you can imagine how Fran and I wanted to hear every word she had to say...Such wisdom. Wisdom that flowed effortlessly from her lips. Later as I reflected on that, it dawned on me that the reason wisdom seemed to drip from her was that...she had actually lived it. She had lived out what she had taught. She and her husband had raised two Godly young men---they didn't just talk about it. And that was the reason she could share wisdom so easily. She is the real deal!

And speaking of real deals...meet my friend Fran. She and I met through this bloggy world and I adore her. She is hip and cool and soooo stinking funny! (Everything I want to be and am not!) And she has a passion for the Lord that is contagious. I can't wait to see where the Lord leads her in using the gifts He has bestowed upon her gorgeous head!

I really didn't want Monday to end...(wow! never wrote that before!). But the Lord had more sweet favor in store for me. This weekend I packed an overnight bag, tossed it in the ole' suv and headed to a wonderful place, filled with some of my most favorite people! YADASISTERHOOD
We laughed, we cried, we took in the Word, we ate and we worshipped!! The speaker was one of my favorites- Lisa Harper. I had the opportunity to visit with her and was truly blessed by her attentiveness and real interest in what was going on with me. She ushers us INTO the Word. And I love that!

Jean and Fran!

Needless to say, I have enjoyed this week immensely! It's not every week that I get to sit, unhurriedly at the feet of such women and be ministered to one-on-one. Thank you, sweet Jesus, thank you so much. I enjoyed every minute.

Praying that I will bless others this week!
Teresa

Company's Coming!

2009-08-16T13:58:00.000-07:00

Company's coming! Company's coming!

Polish the silver! check
Set the table! check
Chicken salad made! check
Apricot Tortoni made! check
Almond Lemonade Tea made! check
Stuff all the toys in the closet! check

Can you tell I'm a little excited about some visitors I'm having for lunch tomorrow? Well! I am! Tomorrow morning I am having two bloggy visitors over for lunch and a visit. This is such a joy for me considering I approached this blogging thing quite reluctantly. But oh how I've been blessed. Blessed by other's words, struggles, joys. And these two have most definitely blessed me. And now we get to visit! How cool is that! How cool is it what has brought us together is... our Lord, our love of a Savior, our love of the One and Only.

Acts 2:26b-47
They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,
praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

I think we might just have a little "church" on the front porch tomorrow.... (know what I mean?:)

Check back later in the week and hopefully I'll have pictures!

Blessings,
Teresa

I'm Back...sorta of...

2009-05-28T07:14:00.000-07:00
Hello friends!
I have missed you! Not sure how this bloggy break got to be sooo long. But glad to be back.

I have spent a little time in the desert recently..(and not completely out yet..but getting there)...I was trying to discern how I got here...here being-empty, drained, dry, burned-out...you know what I'm talking about. For the past 5 months I have been spent...totally spent...for everyone else. Starting in January there was....

* A major shift in a Bible Study I am involved in with more responsibilities, along with some personnel changes that were both sweet and hard.
* The flu...tough stuff!
*Major trip and training on the end of that flu...
*May! (school activities-need I say more!!)
*Major family events here at our home...(parties for loved ones!)
*Disappointment at the hands of friends...

Whew! I just feel better writing that out! All this to say (and thanks for letting me whine/ I mean share *grin*)...God is good! And while I am empty at the moment...He is in the business of "filling" up! Two more projects on the table and then I'm going in for a full tank refill!!!
I share this to remind YOU...get your tank filled...filled with His Word, His presence..filled with HIM!

Habakkuk 3: 17-18 Though the fig tree do not blossom nor the fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my strength.

Filling up and praising!
Teresa

PS: I would consider your prayers precious...(and if anyone has a quiet, deserted place a worn out gal could use to retreat to..let me know!!:))

Smiling

2009-03-28T06:48:00.000-07:00
Things that make me smile.

*A job well done.
*A kind word well-spoken.
*Cooking and entertaining for my friends and family.
*A certain blue-eyed, blond-haired boy's hugs.
*A well-earned nap.
*Seeing God's Word take root in someone's life.
*Positive people.
*Unexpected kindness.
*Planning surprises.

Heavenly Father, How great is Your Name! And how worthy is Your Name! May we praise You this day with all that is within us! Teach us Your ways, give us wisdom and revelation to understand Your Word. And Father may all we do and say bring a smile to Your holy face!
In the saving name of Jesus!
Amen!

What makes you smile?

Smiling and praising!
Teresa

Pleading The Case...

2009-03-18T05:12:00.000-07:00
December 19. January 19. March 16.

Three dates on the calendar.

Three Christian friends.

Three set of tears.

Three funerals to plan.

Three widows leaning on their Lord.

....Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow. Isaiah 1:17

Do you know a widow?

Pray for her.
Go see her.
Hug her.
Cry with her.
Include her.

Praying,
Teresa

Having Fun!

2009-03-12T07:01:00.000-07:00
I had the sweetest morning yesterday.

We are on spring break this week-(which is a little misleading because at the moment it is 31 degrees and sleeting). I took a little time out from the kiddos yesterday morning and got together with one of my mentors from way back that lives in another town. Another one couldn't meet us but we talked on the phone for 30 minutes! These are godly women a little older than me with young adults, (some in college, some out). They have always shared their wisdom (& struggles) with me anytime I needed them. They have prayed with me, over me, listen to me pitch fits and rejoiced with me! I love them bunches!

I just wanted to share a couple of things they reminded me about this job of raising children:

1: Praise them! Praise them!- Praise their character traits, not always their performance. Sometimes this takes intentional means on my part. My 3 children are all very different with different temperaments and personalities they have different strengths and struggles, it is my job as their mom to know those strengths and struggles.
2. Have fun with them!- Now for some of you this may be a no brainer, but for those of us who were born going on 40 (as my daddy used to say about me!) this too takes a little intentional planning on my part. Now, I'm not always a stick-in-the-mud, BUT I like routine, and my quiet time, and reading, etc...you get the picture..:)

SOOOO.....here I sit in a quiet house with 4 precious, sleeping (although loud at 2am) teenage girls among a BIG pile of dirty dishes, clothes thrown everywhere kind of mess...trying to have fun...*grin*...no really it was fun! and I am filled with His joy this morning!

Do any of you have any "fun" ideas that you have done with your children to share?
I would love to hear about them!

Filled with His joy this morning (sleepy joy!)
Teresa

ps: Don't worry about me...the cavalry (that tall handsome hunky husband) arrives at 12:30 to whisk them (and the other 2) off to the movies so I can have the whole afternoon to write next week's teaching!!! YEAH!

Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

2009-03-01T11:19:00.001-08:00
About 3:15 Saturday afternoon, the Lord opened His storehouses of snow on our little corner of West Tennessee and for about 6 hours decorated our world in the most beautiful, breath-taking way. Never mind that I've had buttercups blooming for 2 weeks, this was the prettiest snowfall I can remember. So pure and white, blinding white and sparkling like diamonds! As I wandered around applauding our Lord for His handiwork, my heart felt as though it would pop...

Could it be true? Really true?
Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. Isaiah 1:18
Oh Yes! my friend it is true!!! Through the blood of Jesus our sins are washed white as snow!

In just a few short weeks this is where I'll be sitting with a tall glass of tea, studying God's word, and drinking in His sunshine!

And this tree to the right will be covered in dogwood blooms!

In case you can't read that very well it says...12 inches!!!! Yes sir!!!!

Beautiful! Simply Beautiful!!

Now I know for some of you sweet, Northern sisters this is small potatoes; but for us Southern sisters this is a BIG deal!!! I'll try to post more later of the children, but I better take advantage of this quite house and study for Bible Study!
Soaking in His beauty and (washing clothes! good grief, snow produces a lot of laundry!)
love,
Teresa

Hellooo Again!

2009-02-15T17:09:00.001-08:00
Sorry, long bloggy break! Let's just say..."Whew!" I couldn't begin to tell you what all has been going on, but I think it's safe to say, the Lord is doing some molding and stretching of this old gal!!

I mentioned in an earlier blog that I am studying and teaching on 1 Samuel. This week we are in Chapter 17...One of the greatest battles ever!! So I've got giants on my mind. Let me share an encounter with one....

On Sunday afternoon October the 3rd 2004 my telephone rang. Chester and I had just returned from a weekend trip to Knoxville to watch a little football..(that was back when there was something to watch:)….after exchanging the usual pleasantries with my mother she said,"they think I have a brain aneurysm and I have to see a neuro-surgeon at 7:30 in the morning…”well people, it is rare that anything good comes out of a 7:30 dr. appt…a giant had just walked into my perfect, well-ordered life…I would like to say I grabbed a stone and sling right then and laid that giant out and that the next morning the dr. found nothing…this was not the case…in fact the giant walked in and stayed a while…in the weeks and months that followed I would watch my 60 year old mother have extensive brain surgery, a stroke and grueling physical therapy…Being the first born child, people pleaser person that I am I just wanted to fix this problem (this giant) myself and move on…You don’t fix giants like that on your own…this battle was to be the LORD’S…was I going to walk in that?
Yes! How did I do that? By reminding myself daily (sometimes hourly) that this was the LORD'S battle, by gathering my stones (scripture)...and then slinging those stones (saying them out loud).

I am sure there are those of you who have faced much bigger giants than a sick mother...but that's just it...the size of the giant doesn't matter, what matters is the size of our God!!!!
So...if you are facing a giant today may I remind you that-
our God is bigger than:
*a lost job
*a shrinking 401K
*a miscarriage
*divorce
*a church split
*a lost dream
*a wayward child
*a mean-spirited spouse

and our God is bigger than-
*death

Rejoicing and slinging stones!
Teresa

...For the battle is the LORD'S, and He will give all of you into our hands. 1 Samuel 17:47

Making Room for More of HIM!

2009-01-26T04:56:00.000-08:00
I LOVE studying Old Testament! Just love it! I am studying 1 Samuel right now and it is amazing how much is packed in this book...good stuff...stuff for us today!

1 Samuel 7:3 And Samuel said to the whole house of Israel, "If you are returning to the LORD with all your heart then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths and commit yourselves to the LORD and serve Him only....."

Samuel, being the prophet he was, needed to discern if the people Israel were serious about returning to the LORD. So he told them, "Ok, Israel...you serious about this? Then get rid of the idols. Period."

Christian Americans, You serious about national revival...then get rid of the idols...
Teresa, You serious about drawing closer to the LORD...then get rid of the idols...
And serve Him only!

If I am serious about wanting more of Him, then I've got to get serious about removing from my life...idols, false gods...anything that is taking His place in my life.

Our idols may not be made of wood and melted gold, but they are nevertheless idols…pride, money, children’s success, husband’s position at church, the opinion of people, a certain dress size, a bigger Bible, another Bible study, a tidy checked off to-do-list, sleep.

What are the idols you need to rid yourself of today so you can commit yourself to the LORD and serve Him only?

Holy Father, Forgive us for settling for the cheap things this world has to offer. When You are all we need, You are more than enough, You are abundantly more...Father, I pray this day that You would show me the idols that need to be removed. Allow the scales from my eyes to fall so that I'll see with Your eyes those things I need to dismantle. I want to make more room for You. Enable me to do that through Your Holy Spirit. In the precious saving name of Jesus. Amen!

cleaning out and lifting praises up!
Teresa

You Were Created...

2009-01-14T05:06:00.000-08:00
I can remember as a child looking intently into the mirror and wondering..."Why in the world was I created?"..."Why am I here?"... I certainly wasn't pretty..stringy hair, braces, glasses...(I'll spare you the pictures..) or rich, or popular....

The answer to that question came many years later. It wasn't until I became a daughter of the King did I understand why He created me....

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9

...And so on this day- January 14- my birthday- ....I will do what I was created to do...

PRAISE HIM!

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord! Psalm 150:6

Praising Him and wishing you were here to join me,
Teresa

A Nugget or a Rock

2009-01-12T05:35:00.001-08:00
I love a good Bible study retreat! Time to get away and listen uninterrupted to the Word of God. And most always I have prayed that God would give me a "nugget", a truth, a Word, something to ponder, a word of encouragement. This weekend was such a time. And I had asked the Lord for a nugget. But this time it wasn't a sweet word of encouragement like I was secretly wanting...it was a rock of conviction.

We heard a gentleman tell a story....He was preaching at an outdoor service and they had predicted rain all week, the morning of the service dawned with pouring rain, the man continued to beg the Lord for the rain to stop, just as he had all week, and while standing on the platform in pouring rain, arms lifted high, angry at the Lord, not understanding why the Lord had withheld this blessing -

the Lord spoke..."you have been more concerned with the absence of rain, than with the presence of Me."

I am still moved to tears as I write those words.

Holy Father, God of the Universe, Maker of heaven and earth,

Forgive me:
forgive me for seeking the praise of men...... more than the presence of You
forgive me for seeking the lack of problems.... more than the presence of You
forgive me for seeking blessings..... more than the presence of You
forgive me for seeking health.... more than the presence of You
forgive me for seeking to finish my list.... more than the presence of You
forgive me for seeking comfort ..... more than the presence of You
forgive me for seeking financial peace.... more than the presence of You
forgive me for seeking this world..... more than the presence of YOU.

Father give me a heart that is unsatisfied with anything but You.
in the saving name of Jesus, Amen

I've got some seeking to go do.
much love,
Teresa

A New Year Means.....

2009-01-07T05:43:00.002-08:00
....A new fitness program!! Of course it does! And, yes I've started a new one! One I'm really excited about... AND I need some new MUSIC!

If you have any suggestions I would love to hear from you!

Running, walking, dancing, praising Him!
Teresa

ps: and sore as can be! :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-01-01T15:44:00.001-08:00
Just wanted to share one of my favorite quotes...(ever)...

from Oswald Chambers..."Leave the irreparable past in His hands, and step out into the Irresistible future with Him."

Won't you join me?
Blessings!
Teresa

Reflections of Christmas 2008

2008-12-28T14:27:00.000-08:00
A belated Merry Christmas to all! I pray you and yours had a Christ-filled Christmas and now eagerly look forward to the New Year and all the Lord has in store for us!

Our Christmas was wonderful...even after a "scrooge" start to the month...let me explain...

Shortly after teaching on Ruth and Boaz...(thank you for your prayers..the Lord was good!), I crashed...spiritually, emotionally, and physically...I was soooo tired, everything was a struggle and the whole time...I'm feeling like..."I know this is an attack", but I did nothing... just continued to struggle...the computer crashed, I was grumpy, I forgot important stuff and I was NOT walking in the fullness of the Holy Spirit by a long shot. Finally, I had enough and in the quietness of my room I sought Him...you know Him...the One whose birth I was supposed to be celebrating....and I am still overwhelmed that no matter how hard we tumble..when we earnestly seek Him...He comes...always...

And that is what we just celebrated..His coming... His coming to earth..AND His going...His going
to the cross... For some reason this year, every time I pictured in my mind the babe of Christ in the manger, I saw the shadow of the cross....for that is why He came...to go - to the cross. And I found comfort in that, comfort in the fact that the enemy is defeated and I may walk in victory.
So, a season that started out as an attempted hijack by the enemy turned into a season of victory! Praise Him!

Father! I praise You ...for Your plans always prosper. Forgive my shortsightedness, my inability to look past the present and trust Your plan. I pray that I may listen more closely to Your voice, and heed it. Thank You for coming when I call...You are Holy, righteous and loving!
in Jesus name, Amen!

Some sweet highlights:

*Finally finding THAT special gift!

*Our 11th annual cookie party...25 girls, many moms and countless sprinkles!!

*Peeking in the first-grader's room Christmas eve and seeing him and his boy cousins (ages 26, 23 &19) all laid out on the floor with the most amazing farm set up you have ever seen playing tractors!

*Not having to travel anywhere!...Having everyone here...19 in-laws Christmas eve...19 of my family Christmas day!

*Going to bed at 7:30 Christmas day night!!!

*Taking my freshman shopping the day after Christmas and having lunch with friends I have know for 35 years!

*Slipping way with sweet hubby for a night away!

Rejoicing in His victory!
Teresa

My Redeemer Lives!

2008-12-01T06:59:00.000-08:00
I have been knee-deep in the book of Ruth preparing a teaching for this Thursday. And as the old saying goes....I am on fire! I have always loved the story of Ruth. It is such a complete love story. And I'm a hopeless romantic that dearly loves a happy ending. But having soaked in this precious Word for a couple of days, I am acutely aware that this is OUR love story...we are living this story...If you have approached the threshing floor of our Lord and accepted His offering of covering as our kinsman-redeemer, then you are His bride! You have been spoken for, bought back, redeemed from this pitiful world.

AND it is time that we (the bride of Christ) arise, stand tall, shoulders back, head held high and with one eye to the east...live out radiant lives as the precious bride that we are! Will you do that today? Will you do that for your King? And bring a blessing to the very heart of God!

Please join me in shouting with Job...
I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet my flesh I will see Him with my own eyes - I and not another. How my heart yearns within me! Job 19:25-27

Oh heavenly Redeemer!
You alone are worthy! I don't think there are words to express what my heart feels...while I was a sinner..(a foreigner, like Ruth) You planned to be my redeemer. Father forgive me for flirting with the world, for looking too much like the world and not like Your bride. I pray for the Holy Spirit to seek out those places in my life that need to change so that I can live out a radiant life in You before others!
in Jesus Holy Name,
Amen

Praying you have a productive, radiant Monday!
Shouting and yearning!
Teresa

A Little Project

2008-11-19T08:01:00.000-08:00
Ok! For the two of you out there that care what I've been up to...here it is:
I have been busy getting ready for a big bash here at the house. My darling mother-in-law is turning 80 and we are having a big party here Sunday. So a little sprucing up was in order...this is our hall guest bath:

Before

Before

And after! These lights have to go!

I hope this color shows up well. It is the yummiest (is that a word?) color ever! The shower curtain has a charcoal background color with big peacocks.

Ok! Break's over...I've got to get back to preparing for 200 people to wander through this dirty house...and make sure I have enough food...and don't lose my mind...and keep a smile..:)!!
Just joking! Who am I kidding? I love this sort of thing!!!!
All prayers greatly appreciated
love,
Teresa
ps: will try to have pics of party next week and then something really worthy of writing about!

Whew!

2008-11-16T17:08:00.001-08:00

Just a quick update...Chester and I had a grand time in Knoxville!...the football...not so grand..:
Only in K-ville would you see this...

But this is even better! I truly believe this was one of the most beautiful falls ever!

And the best part of a trip is....
Coming home!...
Jake was a "little" glad to see us!

I'll try to post some pictures of my "little" project in the next day or so...I don't want to overload this tech-challenged brain with anymore pics...:)!
love ya!
Teresa

A few..Day After Election ...Observations

2008-11-05T08:29:00.000-08:00
Just a few random things I observed this morning... the day after election.

*the sun still rose on time... in all it's glory

*my sweet husband still took me in his arms and prayed for me... and I am so thankful

* God's word is still true... Hallelujah!

*my home was filled with my children's laughter... and a little fussing :)

*there is still laundry to be done... lots of it!

*my walk still energized me... and I'm still out of shape

* my salvation is still secure... YES!

*my God is still on His throne... and all God's people said
AMEN!

Almighty God! Holy is Your name and most worthy of praise! I thank You that Your promises are still true and we are still Your children and I pray that You will equip us to wear Your name in a most pleasing way. I pray that You will draw us near and we will feel protected, safe and loved by You, the Lord Most High! in the precious saving name of Jesus! Amen

I have really neglected my blogging (and other things) this week...I've been quite busy with a little project! And hopefully I will have pictures to share next week..:)

And!!! Sweet Hubby and I are hitting the road! YES! We're heading east to K-ville to see a little football...(Yes! I AM a true fan..win or lose!!) I cannot wait! I love east TN this time of year and can't wait to see the Master's touch this year! Soooo...hopefully I be back next week with some pictures!

rejoicing and packing!
Teresa

Season's end

2008-10-22T07:30:00.000-07:00
It's official. Soccer season has ended for our varsity girls team. And I am sad. We lost a heart-breaker last night. And another season has ended. My freshman and her friends were especially sad because it was the last time for them to play with this group of senior girls...an awesome group of older girls who encouraged, challenged and just flat-out made our freshman girls feel special. There were many tears shed and many hugs shared...many! (I thought we'd never get to the car!:) The mood in the car was one of reflection and sadness. But then after some good grub, I watched it happen...hope emerged...hope for future seasons. The tears were gone and the laughter had returned. There would be other seasons to come and with the knowledge of that...hope.

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: Ecclesiastes 3:1

Are you nearing the end of a season? Is there sadness over that? Sometimes a season ends before we are ready and other times we think the season will never end. But you know, today I am thankful for the rhythm of seasons. It gives us a something to hope for...the wonderful possibilities of a new season. And it gives us reason to...trust...To trust in the One who orders the seasons... of this world and of our lives. So if a sweet season is nearing the end, take heart, the next one may be even sweeter...and if you are waiting for an difficult season to end...take heart the sweet One is in control.

Father, my heart is tender today when I think of Your love for us. That You knew our hearts would need hope, and change and trust..and so You created seasons for us. And You give us sweet release with our tears and time for our hearts to soar with new possibilities. May You be praised this day Holy One! Almighty God! In the tender name of Jesus, Amen.

What's that I hear?....Could it be?....the sound of a basketball bouncing?...OH YES! Another season is here!!

Catching my breath and praying for you,
Teresa

Happy Anniversary!

2008-10-07T07:09:00.000-07:00
Eighteen years ago last night I married the sweetest, most handsome fella around. And not a day goes by that I don't say.."Thank you Jesus!" Did I say eighteen years? Man! that doesn't seem possible! Some days it seems like maybe eight years, but then that beautiful teenage daughter will walk in the room and I'm reminded that maybe we have been married a while. He is still as handsome as he was 21 years ago when I met him on a blind date...he is still as compassionate, kind, easy-going and fun-loving! And I wouldn't trade him for the world! And so I lift him to our Lord...

Heavenly Father, You know how hard it is for me to put into words what Chester means to me..and so I simply say..thank you...thank you...Father I pray that Chester will run hard after You, that You will surround him with mighty men You hand pick. I pray for health and strength and wisdom in guiding our family during these trying times. I thank You for his sweet disposition and his gift of laughter. Lord, forgive me for not always being the wife You intended me to be and I thank You for Your grace in those times. I pray that You will bind us even tighter together as we continue to reach for You. In the precious name of Jesus, Amen.

And in case you were wondering how we celebrated....two soccer games and two trips to the farm to 'round up a bunch of cows that decided the grass was greener on the other side..(of the fence, that is)...Oh well...guess we'll just have some making-up to do...*grin*

singing and rejoicing! (happy anniversary, baby...)
Teresa

God's Workmanship

2008-09-22T05:39:00.000-07:00
For we are God's workmanship..... Eph. 2:10

You are a masterpiece of the Master! I just wanted to remind you of that this morning. You were specially created just...for His good pleasure. Sometimes we just need to be reminded of that fact. Sometimes in the midst of being everything to everybody we forget how very special we are to the God of the universe. You are fearfully and wonderfully made and are beautiful to the King!

I am working on a message I have to give in October. I have been pondering something and I would love to have your input.

Why don't we live like the beautiful daughters He created us to be?
What keeps us from believing we are truly beautiful to Him?

Father of all creation,
Please forgive my unbelief. I have believed the world's lies about beauty. I want to walk in that NO MORE. I want to live the abundant full life in Christ that You have for me. Help me to walk in the full confidence of that, saturated in the fragrance of Your Son. And to always be ready to give the answer for that confidence. Father, You are the creator of all good things. All of creation if full of Your glory! From the smallest flower to the mountains to the smiles of my sweet sisters in Christ is all Your beauty. Lord, allow me to see all Your beauty this day and not miss one glimpse! In the beautiful, saving name of Jesus! Amen

Praying you have a beauty-filled day!
Teresa

A Smile

2008-09-17T05:48:00.000-07:00
Walking through the waters of parenting a teenager can be a bit treacherous at times. You are never quite sure what you'll get.

Actual conversation at our home last week....

Mom: "Darling, I just wanted to let you know ahead of time about something so you wouldn't freak out tomorrow at school if someone says something....last night at the Jr. High game I was throwing the football with Eric and Thomas." (If you don't have a teenager let me explain...Mom is NOT supposed to talk, smile or much less throw the football with anyone in High School...)

Darling Daughter: No response

Darling Daughter: Still no response

Darling Daughter: "Mom?"

Mom: "Yes?

Darling Daughter: "You did throw it good...didn't you?"

Mom: "Yes, darling, a perfect spiral every time."

Darling Daughter: Big smile

Mom: Bigger smile!!!!

Thankful for smiles and perfectly thrown spirals,
Teresa

Amazing God

2008-09-14T14:32:00.000-07:00
Joshua 3:5 Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you."

LOVE the book of Joshua! And that is what we are studying in Bible Study this year..(Joshua, Judges, Ruth 1 and 2 Samuel). And I love this verse..."Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you." Don't you want to see the Lord do amazing things? I do!..it's that "consecrate yourselves" part that always trips me up. Consecrate: to set apart; to devote to some purpose....I desperately want to see God do amazing things, so according to this scripture I need to consecrate myself...to actively set myself apart for His purposes. While there is nothing I can do without Him...including putting my feet on the floor each morning...each new dawn He gives me a new day. Now...I can go about this day in my way or His way...I have the choice. It is a no-brainer if I want to see Him do amazing things...it's His way! What does that mean in an ordinary day for me?

It means:
1. Taking His divine appointments as they really are...and not as interruptions
2. Realigning MY schedule if He chooses to realign it
3. Not always having to be right OR to have the last word
4. Studying His word
5. Keeping the communication lines with Him open at ALL times

Do I do these all the time? No...On those few days that I do...do I always see the Lord do amazing things? No Have I seen Him do amazing things on ordinary days...Yes...But you know what?...the days I don't make a conscious decision to set my life apart for Him, my heart is not tender toward His voice and my eyes are not tender toward His amazing things...And it grieves me to think of all the amazing things He has done for me that I simply missed...they were there, they were amazing but I missed it because I hadn't set myself apart for Him.

Holy Amazing Father,
I long to see You do amazing things! Forgive me the times I missed You. I don't want to miss You this day. I want to see ALL You have for me. Quicken my spirit, allow the lenses of the world to fall from my eyes so I can see all You have planned for me. Don't allow the enemy to steal that which You wish to give. Your love is amazing, breathtaking and incredible and I love you so. In Jesus precious name, Amen

What amazing thing have you seen the Lord do lately?

Loving and looking for the amazing,
Teresa

PS: Thanks to Karen for telling this tech-challenged gal how to do this linky thingy! ( I think I did it right! Whooo hooo!)

Give-a-away!!!

2008-09-09T07:22:00.000-07:00
My friend, Leigh is having a fabulous give-a-way WEEK!!! Don't miss it!

As some of you have figured out by now I am not the most techy blogger in the world...soooo I don't know how to put her link here........ but you can click on her link on the side...Speaking Thru Me...

And if you are feeling really sorry for me you can leave me a comment and tell me (in simple terms, please) how to do that linky thingy....

Love and laughs!
Teresa

Football and Friends!

2008-09-06T10:24:00.000-07:00
Whew! what a week! I'm sure my week wasn't any crazier than yours, but I sure was glad to see Friday night roll around! After soccer games, homework, Bible Study and football I was ready for some old-fashioned SLEEP! And the Lord provided! (doesn't He always!) I slept sooo late today and it felt soooo good (and no... I'm not tell how late!)

I have "met" so many of you through my friend Fran. And if you read her post from Friday you'll know that her boys played a little football Thursday night...welllll... they played our team..and ....I got to hug Fran's neck!

The blogging world is so fun and I am enjoying my new friends, but there is something about a real, live hug! I knew Thursday was going to be a long, long day full of things that had to be done and I was just plugging along, when I double checked my planner and noticed that Cortland's game (she's a cheerleader) was against TC ...oh my! wonder if Fran is coming..."Lord that sure would be a treat to see her today" And sure enough...after a short text message...it was set and a couple of hours later I got to see my sister in Christ's smiling face...and I smiled to the Lord and said..."Thank you, Abba, thank you for the sweet "happies" you send my way and thank you for friends to walk beside us on this way!"

Smiling along this way and resting in His love,
Teresa

God's Goodness!

2008-08-25T04:43:00.000-07:00
God's goodness overwhelms me. His provisions never cease to amaze me. Sometimes that goodness is something special just between me and Him. But many times His goodness comes to me though one of His children, one of my sisters-in-Christ. I want to share with you His goodness this past week.

* Two buckets of the yummiest figs you've ever tasted..(gonna make one of those fancy tart things today!)

*5 pair of shoes, 3 pair of pants, 2 sweaters, 1 shirt (with tags still on them, and fancy lapels) for Jake from the sweetest neighbor in the world!

*A check for some sewing I had done...with BIG tip...(DOUBLE!)

AND the kicker!

* A very special friend offered a plane ticket to me to a very special place...and even though it didn't work out...I was moved to tears by her generosity!

I am reminded of Acts2:44-45 All believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need.

Those sisters didn't know that Jake needed some pants or that I needed that extra money, but my Lord did. What my sisters did know was that when it is in our power to do good we should not withhold that good. They were simply being Christ's hands and feet. I know how happy I was...and I imagine that our Lord was pleased too!

Abba Father!
Holy is Your Name and most worthy of praise! I thank You for your abundant blessings and I especially thank you for my sisters-in-Christ who shared with me and my family. Lord, fill me to overflowing of Your Holy Spirit this day, so that when You prompt me to share with others I'll not hesitate to give. I pray that I will hold loosely to these material things so that I may share with others. I want to be Your hands and feet this day. And I want to speak Your words to comfort and encourage. In Jesus Holy Name, Amen!

Is there some good you could share this day? Let's not withhold any good this day!!!

Standing amazed at His goodness!
Teresa

ps: I would love hear of His goodness in your life this past week!

High School and Roller Coasters

2008-08-18T04:58:00.000-07:00
It had to happen, I knew it would. I just didn't anticipate it happening so soon. Last Wednesday I watch my beautiful brown-eyed first born walk into High School. She looked totally together and ready to conquer the world. I on the other hand, did not look totally together and it took every ounce of self-control I had not to start a major meltdown in the school parking lot. I mean how much can a momma take for goodness sake!...I just sent my baby to kindergarten this time last year and I'm still adjusting to that!!

It seems like for so long a mom can't see the light at the end of the tunnel for all the diapers, sippy cups, potty training and barbie dolls. Now I not only see the light at the end of the tunnel but I am staring at a flood light and it is blinding me. In four short years she will fly from the nest and I am filled with conflicting emotions about that...Will she be ready? Will she remember who she is and Whose she is? Will she make the right choices? (not my choices..the right choices for her)...but isn't this what all this parenting is about...training them up to fly on their own...to live out our faith so they want to make Jesus their own. To transfer their hand from ours to His.

And so Gracie it is with much love and loosening hands that I bring you before the throne of the Lord Most High. Fourteen and half years ago God placed you in my hands and your physical beauty took my breath away, now your beautiful heart takes my breath away.

Almighty Father,
I pray that Gracie will be passionate about gaining wisdom and
passionately in love with You.

I pray that You will protect her from harm and the evil one
and protect her from thinking too highly of herself.

I pray that You will give her like-minded friends
and those friends will seek You.

I pray that she'll share her clothes, her study notes, her laughter and the Gospel with others.

I pray she'll hide Your Word in her heart
and be careful who she lets in her heart.

I pray she'll know the power of saying.."I'm sorry" and "I love you".
and she'll experience the power of the name of Jesus.

I pray that her heart will be tender towards others that are hurting
and she bring her heart to You when she's hurting.

I pray Father that she will walk in Your Spirit all the days of her life
and experience Your goodness all along the way!
in the precious saving name of Jesus, Amen!

Lord, hold me tight! I don't like roller coasters in any shape or form , but that is exactly what I feel like we we are on! A roller coaster that is gaining momentum with every passing day...Lord remind me daily that You are in control of this ride and if I'll just open my eyes every now and then You have some awesome views for me!

Hang on Gracie and take it easy on me!
much love all...white knuckles and all
Teresa

ps: Just in case you got the feeling she's the perfect teenager..let me just share that she has left for school and left dirty dishes everywhere and her bed unmade and shoes in the hall...etc....AHHHHH!

Count 'em 1....2....3!

2008-08-15T17:02:00.000-07:00

We interrupt this incredibly busy first week of school for an important announcement!.....

At approximately 7:00 Thursday night a very surprised momma cow of ours gave birth to TRIPLETS..that's right- triplet calves..count'em 1...2....3.....For all you city girls...let me tell you in the cattle world this is HUGE! (and sorry Fran...didn't have my camera!) ...Unfortunately one died early this morning... Triplets are rare indeed, and even more rare is for all three to survive. Needless to say we've had some excited children around here (big kids too!). I will try to have pictures next week of the twins...they are adorable.

As I was watching them try to take those first wobbly steps, I was filled with wonder. New life, triple blessings, life's surprises. I thought about when I first became a Christian..new birth..and all those wobbly steps! How many times I would take two great steps in faith only to fall to the ground with the next step. But just like the momma cow nudged her babies up, I was fortunate to have some sweet ladies nudge me up and along. Do you know a new Christian who could use a little "nudging" (aka: encouragement)? Please don't hesitate to offer encouragement when it is in your power to do so. We have no idea of the impact of our positive words. I know that my faith has been shaped by some pretty awesome women who took the time to pray with me, encourage me and just spend time with me. I'll be grinning when the Master says to them.."Well done, my child."

Sharing His wonder,

Teresa

Dancing Joy!

2008-08-12T05:21:00.002-07:00
One of my most frequently read books, beside the Bible is Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest. Love it! It has spoken to my heart for years. Everytime I read today's entry I am moved by one phrase...he is talking about "missing it" missing the chance to walk in big faith and he writes..."And what a pang will go through us when we suddenly realize that we might have produced down right joy in the heart of Jesus....." Oh! oh! oh! I so want to do that! ...produce joy in the heart of my Savior!...real joy, deep joy, smiling, jumping, dancing joy...not for me but for Him.

The kind of joy in Luke 10:21 At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure. The ancient Greek word for joy literally means.. thrilled with joy! Jesus was genuinely excited in this passage. And I want Him to be filled with joy because I...His child chose to walk in big faith this day.

So...why not? What is keeping me from doing this? I have the Holy Spirit residing in this earthly body, He has thoroughly equipped me to accomplish His will...And so this day I resolved to walk in big faith and take Him at His Word and maybe, just maybe produce a little joy in the heart of my Savior.

Holy Father! My heart is full...fill me to overflowing this day with Your powerful Holy Spirit. Enable me to walk in big faith and bring glory and honor to You this day! I praise You because You are high and lifted up! You are still on Your Throne, there is no one above, beside or even close to You! What comfort that brings to me! Praise You! in Jesus precious name, Amen!

walking in His joy!
Teresa

Oh My Toe!

2008-08-11T04:41:00.000-07:00

A week ago yesterday as I was taking a stroll across the lawn at a church pool party, a nasty sidewalk had the audacity to trip me- in front of everyone- and break my big toe (left foot, ouch, no running 6 weeks, double ouch!). Then yesterday our minister had the audacity to step on my broke toe! OK, not literally...but it still hurt...He was teaching on "Do no harm" Galatians 5:13-26. And one simple statement stuck my heart..."Do you harm others with your silence?" I knew immediately the Holy Spirit had spoken. Now normally I am a easy-going, optimist, mercy-giving kind of gal. BUT there have been many times that I have felt slighted or left out and have used my silence to do harm to that person. How? By not giving my approval, by not giving an affirming word when the opportunity arose, by deliberately walking the other way to avoid them. Gal. 5: 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Oh Father, forgive me for not keeping in step with the Spirit. I have sinned against You and my brothers and sisters. I thank you that Your Holy Spirit resides in me, Your child. Father, allow my words to be life-giving and not let me use silence to be life-stealing. I pray that this day my life in the Spirit will bring You glory and honor and a smile. In the saving name of Jesus, Amen!

TWO DAYS and counting!

School starts on Wednesday and I'm not sure I'm ready...this has been a fun summer. The children have been great and even though I function the best on routine, this is going to be a crazy year...My Gracie starts high school (don't get me started, that's another post), Cortland will be in 5Th grade and Jake 1st grade!

Keeping in step (broke toe and all) with the Spirit!
Teresa

Goodbye Reluctant Heart

2008-08-08T05:28:00.000-07:00
Goodbye, so long, farewell- reluctant heart! For so long now I have had a hesitant, reluctant heart concerning this blog thing. Not blogs in general. I love other people's blogs and have meet some sisters-in-Christ whom I adore. I've just been so reluctant to start my own. What on earth could I possibly say that others would want to read? As I prayed through this, looking for guidance and the right balance concerning this..."it" came..softly..but there it was...God's Word from the recesses of my mind to the forefront of my heart..came Song of Solomon 2:14....show me your face, let me hear your voice: for your voice is sweet,... One of "my" verses that the God of the universe reminded me of. HE wants to hear my voice. And so I begin this blog journey taking hold of His hand and walking with Him, sharing my heart with Him and if it is His will that others read and are refreshed in heart by His Word-then so be it.

Almighty Maker of heaven and earth, Holy one who sits enthroned,
Holy is Your Name! May Your Name be glorified this day in all I do and say, fill me to overflowing with your Holy Spirit. I don't want to miss one thing You have in store for me this day. I pray that the world won't have a chance today to steal my joy. Lord, You alone know my heart concerning this blog thing and I give it all to You, for Your safe keeping. May everything I do and say be pleasing to You this day. In the saving name of Jesus, Amen

So goodbye reluctant heart...Hello refreshed heart!...I pray that every now and then another might be refreshed by the Lord when they stop by here...he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. Pro. 11:25

Well it is off to a soccer scrimmage game...first one of the season...YEA!!
Blessings!
Teresa