Still Having Fun

I want to blog!

2012-02-11T22:28:00.001-05:00

Just stopping by to say hello. I have a lot to blog about but time has not allowed me to stop and write. On Jan. 17th, I began a new job and I have been B U S Y! I am working for Family Service Center with the Midlands Eye Care Clinic. This is a new clinic for the residents of Richland and Fairfield Counties. This clinic is a result of the Medical Mission Fair that took place last summer. There were many people who were not able to be seen during the mission so Palmetto Health, United Way, SCOPA and Family Service Center partnered together to form an Eye Care Clinic. As this clinic began, I walked into a space that did not have even one paper clip. A lot has been accomplished in four weeks, and we had the first clinic on Feb. 7th. Much more needs to be done to get everything up and running. Please pray for me as I continue this new adventure. I know many of you have been lifting me up to God and I appreciate you so much. Please don't stop. I will update more later.

PS. Sweet Marlene volunteered for the first clinic. She is indeed, THE BEST. I love her dearly.

Top Ten predictions for 2012

2012-01-13T11:22:00.000-05:00

My friend, Tammy Williamson, emailed this to me. I liked it so I will share it with you. I particularly liked the last sentence.

TOP TEN PREDICTIONS FOR 2012

With all the problems the World is facing, it can be unsettling to  the mind.

>>> 1. The Bible will still have all the answers.

>>> 2. Prayer will still be the most powerful thing on Earth..

>>> 3. The Holy Spirit will still move.

>>> 4. God will still honor the praises of His people.

>>> 5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.

>>> 6. There will still be singing of praise to God.

>>> 7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.

>>> 8. There will still be room at the Cross.

>>> 9. Jesus will still love you.

>>> 10. Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him.

>>> Isn't it great To Remember Who Is Really In Control, and that;  "the Word of
the Lord endures forever." ( 1 Peter 1:25 )

>>> Sometimes we need the reminder of just "WHO" is really in  control.....

>>> Till the nets are full, keep on fishing.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T21:10:00.002-05:00

We all had a wonderful day at Cynthia and Earl's home today. This is my extended family and we had such a good time together. I have laughed more over the last 3 days than I have in this whole past year. Good times, food and fellowship.

(Back row: Kynn, Tripp, Jeb, Hope, Melanie, Esther,

Middle row: Spencer, Lorie, Beckie, Momma, Cynthia, Jim,

Front row: Christopher, Jamie, Jack, Earl, and James)

We were sad that Gene, Anne, McLean, Ben, Mary Elizabeth, and Patty were not able to be with us. We missed them so much and talked about them a bunch. I did notice as I was looking at my pictures, that in the far background of the above photo, Gene and Patty did actually show up. :)

I have many more pictures to post. I hope all of you had a very Merry Christmas.

Boys can be funny!

2011-12-19T12:06:00.000-05:00

This made me laugh today.

Jamie:" Mom! Can I have your credit card?"

Me:" Why?"

Jamie:" I want to go buy your gift". (I laughed), to which Christopher added, "It's going to be a BIGGGG one!"

Silly boys!

Merry Christmas everyone.

Oh, and just to let everyone know.............Jamie finished his shopping several days ago, and there is a present with my name on it under the tree from him. AND, I did not give them my credit card. LOL

I Cor. 13 Christmas Style

2011-12-01T10:33:00.001-05:00

Cynthia shared this at Bible Study last night.

I Corinthians 13 Christmas Style

By Sharon Jaynes

If I decorate my house perfectly with lovely plaid bows,

strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do

not show love to my family – I’m just another decorator.

If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas

cookies, preparing gourmet meals, and arranging a

beautiful adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love

To my family – it profits me nothing.

If I work at the soup kitchen carol I the nursing home, and give

All that I have to charity, but do not show love to my

Family – it profits me nothing.

If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted

snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties, and sing in the

Choir’s cantata but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.

Love stops the cooking to hug the child.

Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.

Love is kind, though harried and tired.

Love doesn’t envy another home that has coordinated

Christmas china and table lines.

Love doesn’t yell at the kids to get out of the way.

Love doesn’t give only to those who are able to give in return,

But rejoices in giving to those who can’t.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all

things, and endures all things.

Love never fails. Video games will break; pearl necklaces will

be lost; golf clubs will rust. But giving the gift of love

will endure.

Sweet and Juicy

2011-11-17T20:09:00.003-05:00

It' that time of year again. Time to pick our satumas. Each spring we inspect our two trees to see if we have any fruit. We watch all summer long as the fruit begins to form and grow. Each year around this time, we have to watch the temp. to make sure it is not going to freeze. Satsumas just don't like cold weather. Watching the forecast this afternoon, seeing that it might freezer tonight and tomorrow night, I decided that I would go harvest the crop. I was able to get most of them. There are about 2 dozen left on the tree and Kynn will pick those tomorrow for us. Of all of our belongings at our home, this is one of my favorites. Delish!

Encouraging words

2011-11-15T07:20:00.002-05:00

Today is actually my first real day of unemployment. I was given a two week notice and I worked those days. Since the time I heard the news, God has been so good to give me words of encouragement. If you have been one of his people to encourage me, I say thank you.

My immediate supervisor and sweet friend, Cindy Poole shared several devotionals that came her way. (Her hours were reduced). God's timing is always perfect. If you know someone who has been laid off, this is a good devotional to share with them.

God Can Provide Through Any Faucet
Rick Warren

"But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today." Deut. 8:18

The Bible teaches that God is the source of our finances. He is the one who provides for our needs.

What does this mean? It means that, instead of looking to my employer for financial security, I look to God. It means that, instead of looking at my savings account for financial security, I look to God. It means that I don't look to anyone or anything other than God to provide for my needs.

Let me illustrate it this way: When I turn on the water, I know the water doesn't actually come from the faucet. The water comes through the faucet. The water is actually from a reservoir, and the way I happen to receive it is trough the faucet.

In the same way, the income that God wants to give you may come through a job or though something or someone else.

But the source is always God.

We don't need to worry about which faucet God uses to supply our needs. In a sense he says, "If I turn off one faucet, I can just as easily turn on another. If you lose one job, I can give you another. I am your source, not your job. I am your source, not your bank account."

Worry reveals the places where you are not trusting God. Ask God to help you understand what causes you to not trust him, and ask him to teach you to start trusting him. Look for how he does that. In addition, when you start to worry, talk to God about your concerns.

Change!

2011-11-01T16:05:00.002-04:00

My position with Healthy Learners was terminated today. We are a nonprofit and our funding is way down. Same story for so many nonprofits. Several of my coworker's hours were cut too. Hard times. Thanking God that he does not change and thanking him that he is dependable.

We're still having fun!

2011-10-21T17:38:00.003-04:00

I was about to complete my day at work around 1:00 PM today when I received a text message from Kynn that asked, "Do you want to go on a picnic?" I smiled and replied, "Of course I do! Where are you?" "Outside your door" was his reply!.
How fun! I quickly headed out my office door to find him parked right outside waiting on me. He suggested we eat on the capital grounds.

He had lunch with him and off we went. The weather was outstanding and being with him for a surprise picnic was even better. After we ate we walked around the grounds and ended up inside the Capital Building. It has been YEARS since I have toured the Capital. I had forgotten about the beauty of this building. Nikki was not in her office today so we did not get to see her. (We asked) :)

I have no pictures to post, because it was a surprise! No camera!

It was a nice day. We're still having fun!

Hunting

2011-10-15T17:12:00.001-04:00

I hope the above picture does not offend anyone. My men do love to hunt. They said it was a "good" day. :)

A dare!

2011-10-10T08:53:00.001-04:00

A dare from my friend, Kim.
Rather than slipping into assuming the worst, let’s do an “I dare you” this week. I dare you to reject a negative thought when it enters your mind and speak (yes, aloud) something positive! I’m up for a more positive mindset. How about you?

“Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
2 Corinthians 10:5

Please pray

2011-09-29T07:53:00.005-04:00

click on the link below for an update. So happy they were able to remove more of the tumor. Please continue to pray for this sweet family.

Please pray for our friend, David Tucker. He is having surgery today, 9/29/11.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/davidthomastucker

Thank you so much.

Gabriella

2011-09-24T21:37:00.009-04:00

Perhaps my biggest blessing in August was meeting precious Gabriella. I was given the wonderful invitation of being present in the delivery room when she arrived. Seeing the arrival of this precious baby girl, is a gift I will treasure for a lifetime. God's miracle of birth is truly amazing. He is good!!!

Her sweet parents were in our newlywed class several years ago and we are still very good friends with them. Kristi and I have begun hanging out several times a month and always have such a good time. One thing for sure, that girl can make me laugh. :)

Waiting on Gabby

She is here!

Daddy holding his baby girl for the first time.

Yes, those are the proud grandparents!

This past week, Gabby began having a little trouble with her stomach. You know, the baby gas thing. She was not sleeping well at night and sleep was hard to come by for her mom and dad. Kynn and I invited them to come spend the night with us this past Friday night. It was our hope that they could get some sleep and be refreshed for the weekend. They said, "OK!"

We had a great visit with them and baby Gabby slept in the room with us. When she woke for her middle of the night feeding, I took her to her sweet mom. After her feeding, back to our room for a good burp and another several hours of sleep. As you would predict, she was an angel baby. She did not fuss. Ah, babies. Who can understand them?

What do you mean? This baby does not cry!

Mac came with them too. Daisy was fine with Mac, until Kynn started playing ball with him. Daisy did not like that at all.

It was a sweet spend the night party. We hope to do it again soon.

Scripture

2011-09-22T07:11:00.002-04:00

Be renewed!

The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance. Ps. 16:5-6

Work!

2011-09-19T09:26:00.003-04:00

I love how the Lord orchestrates certain devotionals reading or Bible Study lessons to speak specifically to a request or need in my life. No, it does not happen every day, but when it does, it is such a spiritual high. As Beth Moore says, "There is no "high" like the MOST HIGH!"

Speaking of Beth Moore, this past January she encouraged readers of her blog to memorize 24 scriptures during this year. On the 1st and 15th of the month, a new scripture of your choosing, would be added to your memory work. (I am joined by several special ladies, Beckie, Cynthia, Patty, Jennifer, Lisa and Debbie) It is great having the accountability of not only Beth's blog, but these ladies as well.

My scripture for March 15

Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands for us, yes, establish the work of our hands. PS. 90:17

This morning before my feet hit the floor, I was praying this scripture. Kynn and I, along with Cynthia, teach a young couples class at the 8:45 am hour at Shandon Baptist Church. Yesterday we began a new class for this church year. I was specifically praying for our class and the direction that God may lead it. I was asking God to establish the work of our hands, the work that He has for us to do. We are open to his leading. We want to join him where he is at work.

I am currently working through a devotional book called, A 30 day walk with God in the Psalms by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. Wouldn't you just know it! My lesson today was Psalm 90. Yep! That was the verse I was praying this morning.

Nancy DeMoss walks the reader through the whole Psalm. God is our dwelling place, we are frail and will return to dust, we are to number our days, and it ends with establish the work of our hands.

After working through this psalm, I felt an even more urgency to pray, Establish the work of our hands,.....MY hands. Verse 12 reads, "So teach us to number our days, so that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Two questions that she asked in the application part of the devotional included,

1. Calculate approximately how many days you have already lived. If God gives you a lifespan of 70 years (25,550 days), how many days do you have left on earth? How do you want to live those remain days? (ok, I know for the young peeps (lol) out there, this does not mean much, but for older peeps like me, :) well..............) I DID the math! Gulp.

2. What practical difference would it make for you to live your life "in the light of eternity?"

2 Peter 3 says
"But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed."

Our works really do matter here on earth. They will be exposed and judged one day by God.
Whatever your work is today, may it be for God's glory.

Father, I pray today, that you will establish the work of my hands, that it may make a difference for your kingdom, that I will not waste my time, but use it wisely. Help me to be mindful to number my days. Thank you for bringing your word to me. Amen.

(If anyone would like to join the scripture memory, it is not too late. Just let me know and we will add you to our email each 1st and 15th or join in on Beth Moore's blog)

Happy Birthday Spencer

2011-09-16T19:24:00.008-04:00

A Birthday Celebration!

It was time to celebrate Spencer's birthday. We had one problem. Two of our favorite people were not at home. That would be Christopher and Jamie. So, this year, we decided to meet halfway between Columbia, Anderson, and Tigerville. We landed in Clinton, SC for our dinner celebration. The cool thing is that it was 1 hour for all of us. PERFECT! One more cool thing is that Bobby and Marlene joined us and then drove 20 minutes to spend the night with her mom.

We ate at the Blue Ocean Seafood Restaurant. After dinner, the party moved to the parking lot for more celebrating. It was a fun, fun night. It's hard to believe that Spencer is 24. He is currently working at Allstate Insurance Company and likes his job. We are so proud of him. Happy Birthday Spencer Lee. You are such a blessing to us.

Another free digital slideshow by Smilebox

A Special Day

2011-09-16T08:22:00.001-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

SPENCER

Giving Thanks

2011-09-13T14:13:00.003-04:00

Go read this and join in the Thanks giving.

Daddy

2011-09-11T20:56:00.002-04:00

James Manville Patterson
June 10, 1026 - September 12, 2009

Daddy enjoyed cross stitching and made many beautiful pieces. He began cross stitching while he recovered from open heart surgery. It was his therapy. He was very good at it.

We miss his love of having fun. This was a shark's tooth that he found when we were at the beach. He taped it to his face and pretended that he had a nose piecing.

We especially miss him on his special days....Father's day, his birthday.

There is just something about not having your father here on earth with you.

For those of you have lost a parent, you know just what I am feeling today. It seems like it was yesterday that he died, but it also seems like a lifetime since I have talked to him. I am so thankful for our memories. I am thankful for the laughs my family can share when we talk about him. And, I can promise you one thing. If he was visiting me in my home today, there would be a new penny hidden in a very special place. That makes me smile.

WHAT???

2011-08-24T21:26:00.004-04:00

Dear Aunt Cynthia,
You really caught me off guard today. As you know, my dad recently had surgery and can not lift anything over five pounds for six weeks. My mom can not bend over because she has a really bad back. All my brothers have gone somewhere. I get confused when they come home for a while and then disappear once again. So, I knew that baths would be few and far between. (Since mom and dad can't lift me. You know, I AM over five pounds.)
I got so excited today when you came over. I love seeing you. However, today you picked me up and put me down in the sink in the laundry room. WHAT? Did you and my mom plan this? How could you? I was so mad at you! Could you tell?
Tonight I realized that I was totally rude to you this afternoon. I know that refusing to look at you after you placed me in the sink was not kind. I got even madder when you and mom laughed at me. I just get embarrassed when I get wet. I can't help myself.
I would like to say I am sorry and that I do love you. Will you please forgive me? I love you.

Love,
Daisy

Worth the read!

2011-08-23T15:43:00.001-04:00

My sister, Cynthia, shared this with me. I think you will like it too. Be encouraged.

Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. Ps. 27:14

What a valuable asset we have to wait upon. The Lord God Almighty is worth waiting for. It is worth waiting for His joy, because it comes to uplift us when we are sad in heart. His joy brings a smile to our face. It is worth waiting for His peace that calms our soul when we are worried in mind. His peace allows us to sleep at night. It is worth waiting for His wisdom that provides discernment in our conflicting options. His wisdom sets our feet on the right path. It is worth waiting for His strength that propels us through our adversity. His strength gives us confidence and perseverance for life's journey. It is worth waiting for His hope that uplifts us from our despair and depression. His hope keeps the focus on our eternal reward in heaven. He is worth the wait.

Taken from Infusion by Boyd Bailey

Have a great day.
Cynthia

I LOVE a Surprise!

2011-07-29T20:23:00.006-04:00

We have been shopping for a new car for Jamie over the past couple of weeks. His "ride" for the past 4 years has been the old red truck. This truck has been through Kynn, Spencer, and then Jamie so it has a lot of miles under it's wheels. Jamie is transferring to NGU this fall, (he leaves in about 2 weeks :( ) and we knew that it would not be safe for the truck to be on the interstate, thus a new vehicle for Jamie. He knew we were looking, but did not know any of the details. John Wise, (LOVE CHEVROLET) , agreed to help us look for a car.

The phone call came and John told me he had a car he thought we might be interested in test driving. Kynn and I went and picked up the Saturn Ion and drove it home. We had pretty much decided this was the car. We parked the car at our neighbors house and when Jamie went to take his shower, I brought it back to our yard. I wrapped the key and we gave him the gift.

I think he had an idea what might be in the box! When I handed him the box he said, "What is it?" I said, "Open it!" At that time he started grinning. :)

(I am sorry about all this space between the pictures. I don't know how to correct it) Would love someone to tutor me on this!

This was the smile right before he walked outside to see his new car.

His comment on first seeing the car..............NICE.

The very FIRST thing he did when he sat in the car was to check out the radio. It passed the test!

He likes it!! Sun in my eyes kinda picture!

Jamie took us on a test drive around the neighborhood and then we headed to Aunt Cynthia's house to show her. She liked it too. :)

On Thurs. we returned the car to John, at Love Chevrolet, and today we actually went and purchased the car. Jamie went with us to sign the papers and all. John congratulated Jamie on his nice new car.

It was such a blessing to have John help us. He is extremely knowledgeable about cars, after all it's his business. He went the extra mile in service and kindness to us. All his staff at Love are so kind and helpful. John took the time to talk with Jamie and tell him about every feature on his car. All three of us actually learned a lot about cars today.

This picture was taken right before he took off in his new car. I am sure he will travel many miles in this car. We are so thankful to John and to God for allowing us to purchase this for Jamie. He has blessed us.

Jamie, I pray that you will drive carefully and be protected as you travel the highways. May you continued to be blessed by our Lord and Savior.

Love covers a multitude of sins

2011-07-22T12:12:00.003-04:00

"Love covers a multitude of sins."

Have you ever seen the verse, "Love covers a multitude of sins"? It is one of my favorites and I pull it up in my mind often. Jesus is so interested in love and wants us to love like He loves. Notice I did not say "loved" as if He was still dead...

I love it when the Holy Spirit helps me retrieve this verse so I can apply it to my life and extend mercy, cut someone some slack, or react differently than I would have years ago, before I began to zero in on this verse.

Today after work I stopped by a grocery store that I usually do not frequent. I ordered a pre-made raw salad and a nice young man saw me waiting at the deli counter, parked his broom, and offered to assist me. I wondered if he would wash his hands or put on gloves before he helped me. After all, he had been cleaning only God knows what.

He did neither...

He reached for a long-handled spoon to scoop out my broccoli-raisin salad and I thought, "Well, how easily can germs make it from his hands to the broccoli, down that long handle in just a few short seconds?" I let it slide instead of making a big issue out of it...

There was only one problem: some of the broccoli flopped out onto his hand and he just took that spoon and scooped it right back into my container! At that point I had to choose how I would respond.

Instead of giving him a big lecture on why he should wear gloves and how he should not sell food that has touched his hand, I just felt led show some grace and smile, thanking him for the friendly service.

I then had to decide if I was going to march to the manager, demand a free broccoli salad and report the young man...

So I paid for the salad and shared the story with the Lord's kindness, while emphasizing that the man was one of the nicest people I had ever met and his customer service was excellent. All he needed was some training about health codes. The manager said he was new and would explain their policy. I doubt he was ever told about the gloves...

This man didn't "sin" against me as the verse states, but in my quest to grow in love and become more and more like Jesus, I look for little everyday ways I can apply his grace and love to others. I wonder if this was a small, silly way to do this... I really don't know, but just wanted to write about it. Maybe my two sons will stumble upon it one day and use it to address another scenario.

Yesterday while I was in the waiting room at the doctor's office the person at the desk asked each person who checked in to have their picture taken so it appears on their chart. They do this at MD Anderson, too, so they can be assured that you are you. There was a woman who became unglued, verbally outraged, over this and I felt for her, that such a thing would set her off like that. I felt compassion, though, and wondered if a cancer diagnosis had just caused her to cave in.

I think God cares about the little things as well as the big things. He cares about how we treat people - all people. We can exhort people or "teach" them in love and humility. I want to be better at that! I can recall times when I was just like that woman. I want to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord...

Today was a good day. I am thankful for another day. (Anne Buck, July 22, 11)

Blueberry pickin'

2011-07-06T21:47:00.002-04:00

Today has been a fun day for us. Kynn and I set out early this morning to pick blueberries. (I have no pictures) :( Oh well.

As we were on our way to the blueberry patch, I called my mom to chat. We had decided to stop at a McDonalds right before we got to the field and I told mom that I was going to run in McDonalds and passed the phone to Kynn. I expected to get back on the phone when I returned, but the two of them had a conversation going that I did not want to interrupt. I wish the words I heard were recorded because I would love to hear them again.

Kynn said that as he was reading his Bible this morning he was thinking about the pretty new curtains that were hanging in our kitchen. (He hung them for me yesterday.) He pondered on the thought of how much time had been put into making the curtains, and also the time that is took to hang them. Then his thoughts went to wondering how much time does he actually put into hearing the voice of God. At that point, conviction of the Holy Spirit fell upon my heart. Truly, how much time do I concentrate on hearing the voice of God. How much time do I sit still and wait for him to speak to me? It has given me something to think about today.

What a precious phone call. I love the fact that my husband will take the time to have a relationship with my mom. I love the fact that when he hangs up he tells her that he loves her. I love the fact that he has a quiet time in the mornings. I love the fact that God will speak to me out of what He spoke to my husband during his quiet time. And, I love that we picked blueberries today. It was fun. It was hot. We picked 25 pounds. :)

A picture or two

2011-06-20T21:43:00.001-04:00

That would be a bear!

Repairing a fence!

He is having a blast!

Kitty and Joel

2011-06-17T10:14:00.002-04:00

www.joelandkitty.com

These are previous newlyweds that were in our Sunday School Class. Kitty has been having pain in her shoulder/arm for the past year. She had received physical therapy and injections with no relief, so a few weeks ago the doctor ordered a MRI. A tumor was found in her arm. Yesterday she had a biopsy. Please read the blog for an update at this time.

I am thanking God for his MERCY that he gave to this dear couple. We, along we many others, love them very much.

Our anniversary

2011-06-04T21:32:00.003-04:00

We made it to 25 years on May 31st. Kynn blessed me with 25 pink roses and nice words on our message plate. It was a great day and we are hoping for many more years together. God has been so good to us.

Cowboys

2011-05-30T22:35:00.005-04:00

These are the best looking cowboys I have ever seen!!! (Christopher's new friends and co-workers)

Christopher's pictures

2011-05-27T22:23:00.006-04:00

A few of Christopher's pictures!

I want to make a difference!

2011-05-24T16:21:00.004-04:00

I hope you will hop on over to my friend's blog and read her current post. It touched my heart and I hope you will receive some encouragement too.
http://www.maria-lifeonbeechgroveroad.blogspot.com/

Prayer and a yellow ribbon

2011-05-24T15:23:00.013-04:00

My mom is very good friends with a group of ladies from First Baptist Church, in Darlington, SC. These ladies get together on a regular basis to pray for and with each other. I love that they do this because I know they have prayed for me and my family.

Momma's friend Tina, has a son who is currently serving all of us overseas in the Military. These ladies pray together for him and they have all placed a yellow ribbon at their home as a reminder of this young man. Months ago when mom moved to her new apartment at the Bethea Baptist Home, she took her ribbon and placed it on her front porch. Immediately she began being questioned by other residents on the meaning of the ribbon. Her next door neighbor said she had a relative serving and she needed a ribbon too. Several other ladies she has met in her new community also wanted to know the meaning behind the ribbon. Before momma knew it, someone had approached the administration of the Bethea Home and asked if a list of all friends and relatives could be placed on the bulletin board so all the service men and women could be prayed for by name.

One never knows the influence that you may have on others. Momma's yellow ribbon has caused many believers to come together to pray for our military. I think that is so cool. It would be great if you would take a minute to pray for them too. :)

Momma's yellow ribbon

The neighbor's ribbon

Leaving on a jet plane

2011-05-18T21:56:00.003-04:00

Christopher leaves early this Sunday to head to Turpin Meadow Ranch in Moran Wy. This is the ranch that we vacationed on last July. He applied and was hired! Today he purchased his second pair of boots and a lined carthartt vest. Yes, tonight they are calling for a wintery mix right there on the ranch. It is still cold out in beautiful Wy.
We are excited for Christopher love the courage he has to hop on a plane and head to a place where he knows no one. We know he will meet some wonderful new friends. I have clearly explained that he can not fall in love with Wy. :) It is our prayer that God will continue the good work that he has begun in his precious life. I know he has many wonderful blessings waiting for him.

Cheers you should know

2011-05-13T22:03:00.003-04:00

Many, many years ago, I read an article on encouraging your children and the power of positive words. At the end of the article was a list of cheers that could be said to your children to encourage them and build them up. I cut the cheers out and backed them with construction paper and taped them to the side of the refrigerator. I remember some days with all the activity and business of life, it was easy to forget to cheerleader. Having the list on the refrigerator was a visual reminder to cheer on! Even today, with three grown boys, it is a good thing to be their cheerleader and to speak positive words. Below is the list of the cheers. Maybe you would like to put these on your refrigerator as a reminder to use your words in a positive way. So how 'bout it..........can I hear a CHEER? :)

Good Job!

I'm glad you're my son/daughter

I like you!

That was really great!

I love the way you fixed your hair.

You played that song beautifully.

You are a great friend!

You'll make a wonderful wife/husband someday.

Thanks for cleaning your room.

You're so strong.

I trust you.

You are God's special gift to me.

You light up my day.

My favorite part of my day is picking you up from school.

I missed having you around today.

You're such a good helper.

I'm proud of you.

Way to go!

I knew you could do it!

God made a masterpiece when He made you.

You are such a treasure.

You are one of God's greatest gifts to me.

I'm behind you.

I'm praying for you!

That was so responsible.

You're a joy.

How did you get so smart?

That was so creative!

Hurray for you!

Thank you.

Facelift for our house

2011-04-19T16:04:00.008-04:00

After living years in our home, it was time to to freshen up just a little. You know, paint, wallpaper, and a few pieces of furniture. We started with a new couch and of course, a few new pillows. We then got busy removing the old wallpaper in the kitchen and eating area. We decided to only hang the new paper in the eating area. It took all day, but Kynn got the new paper up and it looks really nice.

The wallpaper project started early in the morning.

It's beginning to get a little dark outside.

And finally, the strip between the windows.

Done! A long day. Thank you Kynn. Another project completed. YES!

{Pictures of our new look in the dining room to come!}

What are we up to these days?

2011-04-15T20:46:00.007-04:00

It has been such a long time since I have posted on our blog. We have been busy and tired! :) I'll just list a few things we have been doing.

1. We are giving our den, kitchen, dining room and foyer a face lift.

2. Painted our dining room.

3. Bought a new couch.

4. Kynn hung new wallpaper in the kitchen.

5. We took momma to the airport for a her trip to Mich. to see her brother.

6. We went to the USC baseball game against Kentucky.

7. Out to eat a lot. 8. Layla's first birthday party.

9. Cut the grass, several times.

10. Cleaned out the gutters. (Today in preparation for the storm that is coming our way)

11. Visited Beulah Baptist Church.

12. Gone to work..

13. Went to North Greenville University with Jamie. (He is transferring next year)

14. Celebrated with Spencer over his new job.

15. Knitted

16. Kynn has been to the movies with the Jamie.

17. Visited with Christopher over spring break.

18. Prayed Jamie to Florida and back. :)

19. Took clothes to the consignment store.

20. Baked sugar cookies

21. Made a yummy weight watcher lemon pie

22. Watching birds in our nest outside the kitchen window. No wonder I feel tired. I do have some pictures to post. Hopefully I can do that soon. What have you been doing?

Laura Story - Blessings

2011-03-29T21:14:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Christopher

2011-03-19T22:10:00.003-04:00

Happy Early Birthday Christopher! We celebrated tonight with pizza, cookie cake, lots of presents, and Bobby and Marlene. It was a fun night and I was thrilled to have all my boys home with us. They have all grown up on us. What a blessing to hear them talking and laughing together.

This is Christopher laughing after reading the "inappropriate" birthday card!

Just so you know....this card did not come from anyone in "my" immediate family. HA HA

The traditional birthday basket will all the favorite junk food a guy could eat.

A fun time. Doesn't Jamie look like he's having a blast? :)
We all did have fun.

A good verse

2011-03-02T17:40:00.002-05:00

Rather than waiting for evidence to believe God's promises, our faith should precede the evidence. P. Shirer

But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.
Micah 7:7

We Remember

2011-02-16T21:24:00.004-05:00

Today is Sarah Harris' birthday. She was Kynn's mom and my mother-in-law. And a good mother-in-law indeed. She was such a sweet, sweet lady. There are so many wonderful memories and we have enjoyed remembering her today. Of course, it does make us sorta sad too, because we miss her so much.

She was affectionately known as Grandmomma. My boys loved her madly, and she was crazy about them too. Each summer when our guys were little, we would take them to Alabama and leave them for three weeks. They were loved with a love that only a grandmother can give. We have been told that if one of the guys wanted McDonald's, and one wanted pizza, and one wanted Burger King, well then, they all got what they wanted. They would get in the car and make the rounds. Wal-mart was an every day event. Yes, I mean, an every day event. Baths were not a requirement, and I don't think their hair got washed. Riding a tractor with granddaddy, playing with the water hose, riding the go cart, and swimming at cousin Stan's house were daily activities.

I can remember when we would go visit in Alabama, she would hug Kynn over and over. She would hold his hand, and just want to talk with him. I loved that about her. She still loved "her" baby and wanted to hear all the details about his life. I wanted Kynn to also have a relationship with her and care about her life. In her later years, he tenderly cared for his mom and was a great son.

As a mother-in-law, she accepted me into the Harris family and she would hug me too. :) She was so easy to talk with and I adored her laugh. She was the BEST cook in the world and I always gained weight when we visited. I just could not help myself. I loved her.

So, today we say Happy Birthday Grandmomma. We miss you!

Funny or Not

2011-02-12T21:16:00.003-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone. I hope you are all "feeling" the love.

Valentine's Day was a fun time in our house. Each year we would have a Valentine scavenger hunt. Each one of our boys would find their own clue and off to find the treat or present. We loved watching them run from one room in the house, only to find a prize with another clue that would lead them outside to the yard. Of course, it would be back in the house and then outside again. Both Kynn and I smile when we remember the smiles that this activity brought to our family.

Today, I came across this card. It was given to Christopher a few years ago. It made me laugh then, and it made me laugh again today. Christopher thought is was pretty funny and I'm sure he would laugh again today too! LOL

So, my advise to all of you. Be careful when you kiss your HONEY! :)

Treasures in a Box

2011-01-27T20:17:00.009-05:00

One of my goals for 2011 is to "purge" my house. I have come to realize that we have way to much "stuff" around here. I have decided that I would like to make life as easy as possible when it comes to being around the house and get rid of the stuff that we do not use or want. This has been a long time in the coming. For example, my front hall closet was so full that I did not know what was living in there. It was so convenient to just open the closet and put things behind that door, especially if I didn't have a particular place for that item. I threw out two, yes, two trash bags of unneeded stuff.

In 2003, Kynn's parents moved in with us for a short while and then moved to an assistant living facility here in Columbia. This was an unplanned event and happened quickly. We went for a visit and realized that they were no longer able to live alone. Kynn's dad had cancer and his mom was battling Alzheimer's. We boxed all their belongings that we could and packed our van to the ceiling only leaving space for the four of us to sit. Floor to car ceiling, every space was filled.

When we arrived in Columbia, life was in full swing with 3 children and we were learning to live with two more people in our home. We set up our extra room for his parents and put their extrathings in any available space we could find. As I cleaned out our front closet the other day, I started going through a box and discovered the below treasures. I was thrilled beyond words. You will see why when you look at the pictures. This was one of the boxes that had been packed up and placed in the bottom of the closet. Baby Kynn
Baby Kynn and Baby Herb (and baby ducks.....little Floyds)
This was a family photo taken at a cousin's wedding. These sweet boys were the ring bearers.
Kynn fell asleep waiting on his dad to come home from work. (His mom has comments on the back of each of these pictures.)
Reading with Dad

Giving his puppies a ride in his police car.

He was a model in a style show. That is so funny to me. HA ( Kynn says, "I was LOOKIN" Good!)
Kynn made swings for his puppies out of his dad's handkerchiefs.
More puppies. They always had puppies and Kynn loved them.
School picture. (I see a whole lot of Jamie in this picture) :)
I have heard a lot about their pony, but had never seen a picture of it. I love this picture.
The pony's name was Trigger. Kynn said that they would hold a bottle of Coke up to his mouth and he would suck it down. "He liked Coca Cola!"
This dog was named Frisky. Betsy was the cow. Kynn said his mom and dad hated that cow. She would stick her foot in the milk bucket. Kynn's mom kick Betsy one day for ruining the milk and turned the front of her foot blue.
Christmas morning. A new BB pistol. He was just posing for the picture, not really shooting at his brother. (Do you remember the silver Christmas trees with the rotating color wheels?)

Baseball Team: The Tigers
Kynn's mom sewed tiger emblems on each jersey. She must have been "Team Mom"

This was Kynn's next dog. His name was King. He just told me , "Frisky had gotten run over and King wasn't long for this life either." One had to be tough to live on a farm. What a childhood. Awesome memories. I love hearing about all of them.

2011-01-21T22:36:00.000-05:00

See post below Kynn's post for pictures of our Christmas Cruise.

A post from Kynn

2011-01-15T12:12:00.004-05:00

I was thinking about the circumstances of Jeremiah 29:11 the other morning in my quiet time at the dining room table and they gave me such quiet conviction for this difficult economic period that I thought I would share this.

What thoughts would have been going through my mind if Jeremiah had personally spoke Chapter 29 to me while I was a slave living in circumstances that I didn’t like and didn’t see any improvement in the foreseeable future? Probably something like...

“Are my hopes and dreams dashed for good? How can I keep a “positive attitude” when these feelings of bewilderment, anger and despair keep knocking me off balance like waves in the surf zone.”

“Now, Jeremiah just told me that:
(1) this will last for a while [70 years], so I should
(2) settle in and live [buy houses, plant gardens, marry] with the assurance that
(3) God’s plan for my deliverance and the deliverance of my family is underway.”

“Live as normal a life as possible while I wait for God’s deliverance? Try to bloom where I’m planted? I would rather be transplanted!”

Father God, if Jeremiah 29 applies to me and my family in these uncertain times, help me to live out the perspective of my heroes in Daniel 3. The perspective that “There is no need to waste emotional talk on this. My God whom I serve is able to deliver me from Circumstance, but even if He does not, know this Mr. Circumstance...I will not kneel before you because My God is bigger than your circumstance and He is working His plan for my good welfare even now!

Christmas Cruise 2010

2011-01-07T21:44:00.010-05:00

(Click on the arrow and the pictures will move at a faster pace) :)

Make your own picture slideshow

Several months before Christmas, our guys, (mainly Spencer) suggested that we not give presents for Christmas and spend our money on a Christmas family trip. I asked where they would like to go and the reply was "Hawaii." Well, we all smiled and laughed knowing that would not happen at this time.
Kynn and I talked about it and checked our Christmas savings account and came up with an amount of money that we could spend on a trip. Jamie and I made a trip to a travel agent to investigate and see if there were any cruises available for a family of 5 that was within our budget. Our agent looked at us and said, "let me check". She then presented us with our options and we began to smile. :)
We departed Columbia and Dec. 17th and spent the night in Tampa, Fl. We boarded our ship on the morning of the 18th and departed for the "blue water" at 4:30 PM. As soon as we stepped on the ship the eating began.

Our 5 day Western Caribbean Cruise

Sat. Depart
Sun. "Fun Day" at Sea
Mon. Grand Cayman
Tues. Cozumel
Wed. "Fun Day" at Sea
Thurs. Tampa

Our "Fun Day" at sea activities included, putt putt, eating, ping pong, eating, spa activities, eating, shows, eating, and a behind the scene tour of the ship. (3 hour tour) This tour was on our last day at sea and only 16 guest were allowed. It was very interesting to see the laundry, kitchen, freezers, control rooms, security, employee's lounges. At several points on the tour we had a security guard watching our every move. One very interesting fact is that on each Carnival Cruise, all new linens are used. (Sheets and towels) That, my friend, is A LOT of linens!

For our excursion at Grand Cayman, we booked a guide and headed to Sting Ray Island on Jet Skis. We headed out into the ocean for what seemed like a very long way to me. LOL Our guide was a young man, who had no reason to go slow. He said, "Let's go" and all I saw were a few small dots in front of me. It was great fun and beautiful. Seeing the sting rays was a "rush" to say the least. One should not swim with an animal that killed the Crocodile Hunter, if you know what I mean.

Cozumel was a day of 90 degree weather and four wheeling in the jungle. It was very dusty and bumpy. Oh my aching back. :) We had fun.

We are so thankful that we got to spend time with our guys. We really enjoy their company and always have a good time with them. It is amazing how much we missed them when the holidays were over and they had returned to school/work. 2010 gave us many family memories and for that we are thankful.

Graduation Day

2011-01-01T22:15:00.005-05:00

On Dec. 13th, 2010, our son, Spencer graduated from USC with a Business degree. We are so proud of him. It really is hard to believe that he has completed his time in college and is now moving on to the next phase of life. He is very busy looking for a job. Spencer is such a hard worker and he has a double major in insurance and finance. If you know of any job opportunities or have a contact or two for him, please let us know. We know that God has a special plan for him and we can't wait to see how that plan unfolds for him.

(I have more pictures, but for some reason they are not on my computer. SIGH! Wonder where they went. I will need to download them again.)

A great post by Beth Moore

2010-12-29T16:23:00.001-05:00

I enjoy reading Beth Moore's blog. I have posted her last blog post below. It is well worth reading.

Like many of you, I’m a thinker. Years don’t come to ends or beginnings without me getting caught up in what’s behind or in front of me. That’s good if it leads to change. That’s bad if it leads to dread. We’ve all heard this definition of insanity: doing the same thing the same way and expecting something different. Yet, for the most part, we live life in that maddening loop. One of the things God has taught me along the way is to try to hear from Him about one area at a time that He’s pinpointing for change. Much more than that is too overwhelming. Anyway, He’s a God who’s into process with the lives of His children. We need look no further than Philippians 1:6 for proof of that. What He may begin in an instant He may complete over a lifetime. Instead of making a list of resolutions for 2011 that are broken by the time they’re spoken, is there simply one thing about us we really wish to change? I could think of a dozen things I’d like to change but this is the one I think God is pinpointing as our joint effort for the top of 2011: a mental loop I tend to get into when I get offended or hurt by someone I love. I have come to believe that my first minute’s reaction is what determines the cycle of the next (usually miserable) two days. So, here’s my specific prayer for the end of 2010 and the beginning of 2011.

My Dearest Abba Father,
I’ve lived long enough to know that any 12-month period of time on Planet Earth winds a pathway through thicket and thorns. It’s just too long a period of time not to get hurt or offended. I also know that You have tucked many joys in the oncoming year and I don’t want to miss them because I can’t quit obsessing over what’s hard. You’ve gone to measurable lengths in the last year to show me how the enemy of my soul operates in one specific area: he can’t block You from blessing Your children so he tries to block Your children from enjoying it. I do not want him to cheat me of reaping from anything rich You send my way this year. Even the treasures hidden in darkness. As this year ends and a new one begins, I am so thankful that I have Your Spirit without limit in my life and that, with You, change in a long pattern really is possible. You’ve done it before in my life. Come do it again. I am asking You in particular, Abba Father, to run to my aid in that first moment when an opportunity for offense happens and urge me by Your Holy Spirit to head into a thought-loop that spirals upward rather than downward. Simply put, help me to get over things fast. Honestly, Lord, sometimes I just make life harder than it has to be. Some things that wound me aren’t even about me. Help me to see where I’m jumping into somebody else’s loop and to quit getting hung by my own. I choose joy in resting this petition at Your feet, Lord, and I refuse self-condemnation or fruitless regret. You never would have brought this to the forefront and called for it in prayer if You didn’t have something good in mind. You began this work. Now come and take it to the next level. I’m excited about it, Lord, and see a glimpse of liberty on the horizon. Thank You, Father.

Beth Moore

Thanksgiving

2010-12-26T15:19:00.006-05:00

This year for Thanksgiving we were at home on Palatine. Momma came and stayed at Cynthia and Earl's house for the weekend. They came and joined us for the day. Also, Bobby and Marlene came and brought their whole family to join us. We really enjoyed having Bobby, Marlene, Jeff, Celinda, Maddie, Logan, Greg and Taylor. Kynn smoked the turkeys and everyone else made side dishes. Of course, we had way too much food. After we ate, it was outside to play football, basketball, and ride the four wheeler. It was a great day.

Thanksgiving 2010

Logan tackling Christopher

Logan and Daisy

Kynn and Celinda

Marlene and Christopher

Jeff, Celinda, and Logan

Earl and Cody

Oh Yes!

2010-12-26T11:38:00.004-05:00

We have had such a good Christmas this year. Instead of "major" gifts, we took a cruise with the whole family from Dec. 17 - 23rd. We got home in time for a lazy Christmas Eve and attended our church service. Bobby and Marlene came over after church for breakfast for supper. Christmas day we hung out and ended up at Bobby and Marlene's for steak and a movie. Last night, we got a phone call from Alex and his family (our foreign exchange student from a few years back.) AND, today we woke up to snow. We have had some really nice days at this time of year. What a blessing.

#4 My Bible

2010-12-12T19:33:00.002-05:00

Here is a poem that I have written in the pages of my Bible. I am not sure who wrote this one. If you know, please leave me their name in the comment section. I would love to give credit where credit is due. I hope you like this poem.

Autobiography in five short Paragraphs

Day 1 - I walked down the street. There is a hole in the street. I fall in. I am lost. I am helpless. It isn't my fault. It takes forever to find a way out.

Day 2 - I walk down the street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I pretend I didn't see it. I fall in. I can't believe I'm in the same place, but it isn't my fault. It still takes me a long time to get out.

Day 3 - I walk down the street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I see it there. I still fall in. It's a habit! My eyes are open. I know where I am. It is my fault. I get out immediately.

Day 4 - I walk down the street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I walk around it.

Day 5 - I walk down a different street.

Silent Monks Singing Halleluia

2010-12-05T21:47:00.000-05:00

Just have to say it!

2010-12-04T09:45:00.001-05:00

I know it is silly, but I must say it,

Go Gamecocks! Beat Auburn!

Four Wheeling

2010-11-27T20:51:00.002-05:00

This was just ONE of our fun activities on Thanksgiving day. Not only was it Thanksgiving, it was momma's birthday. One is never too old to have fun.

#3 My Bible

2010-11-17T14:41:00.006-05:00

Here are more words written in the extra pages of my Bible. I wrote these following in my Bible on 4-20-04. I was reading the book Calm My Anxious Heart and thought I might need to read these words in the future. I have read and reread these words many times.

In Times of trouble, say, "First he brought me here. It is by his will I am in this
strait place; in that I will rest. " Next, "He will keep me here in his love, and give
me grace in this trial to behave as his child." Then say, "He will make the trial a
blessing, teaching me lessons he intends me to learn, and working in me the grace
he means to bestow. "And last say, "In his good time he can bring me out again.
How and when, he knows." Therefore say, "I am here

1. by God's appointment,
2. in his keeping,
3. under his training,
4. for his time.

Andrew Murrey

PS I am clueless on why the words are not filling in each line.

#2 My Bible

2010-11-09T16:16:00.002-05:00

More from the covers of my Bible

Do you believe God only when your circumstances are favorable, or do you believe no matter what your circumstances may be? (Streams in the Desert)

Truth is troubling (to the lost) because it will not go away.

For God is greater than our hearts! (I John 3:20) (Thank you Lord!)

Todays successful people make right decisions today and manage them the rest of their lives. Kirk Nowery

When you realize your sins hurt God, it is easy to repent. Adrian Dupre

Unforgiveness is like taking a dose of poison and waiting for it to kill you. A.W. Tozer

There's good stuff in the hard stuff, if you don't sleep walk through it. P. Shirer

My Bible

2010-11-07T20:21:00.003-05:00

I was given the Bible that I currently use by Marlene Chandler for my birthday on Dec. 20, 1997. I love this Bible and have been through many seasons of life with it.. Recently, I have realized that it is time for a new Bible because this one has begun to fall apart. :( I am one who underlines and writes in the margins and in the front and back covers of this special book. I can see certain quotes that I have written and know which study or group of ladies I was with when I wrote it in my Bible. In the next little while I plan on shopping for my new Bible and know that I will have more wonderful memories of God's faithfulness to me. Great is his faithfulness.

The following quotes by my pastor, Dick Lincoln, are written in the front and back covers of my Bible.

12/3/06 (First Sunday in our current sanctuary)
God loves you too much to let you stay bogged down in what you are, instead of being glorified in what you can become.

1/8/99
Don't get discouraged! Awareness is the first step to change.

1/22/00
Christianity has more to do with God holding on to you than you holding on to God. That is why his name is Faithful and True.

12/17/00
Faith is the ability to enjoy what God is going to do before he does it.

3/24/02
The key to the Christian life is to trust without explanation.

3/4/01
Carry on with the good. Leave the bad behind.

9/4/01
We must say "No" not only to things which are wrong and sinful, but to things pleasant, profitable, and good which would hinder and clog our grand duties and chief work.

Sometimes God may prioritize the faith required to continue trusting Him when we don't get what we ask, OVER the faith required to receive it.

11/4/02
Faith unchallenged is faith stifled.

10/28/01
Everything I have is yours. That is the attitude I should have. I feel sorry for the man who puts money in the plate to support the church. It should be an act of worship to God. The tithe is a check on your submission to God.

11/4/07
God is interested in providing for you. Faith must believe this!

12/21/03
If you ever wonder if God loves you, look at the cross. Circumstances do not express God's love. The cross does!

7/2/06
Anytime someone becomes comfortable with sin, it will become a disgrace.

12/07
Have you gotten to the point that you want what God wants for you?

1/17/04
It's not our problems that pull us down, it's our lack of faith.

1/6/08
God called you to be a finisher.

11/16/08
Don't be gripped by a habit! (bad habit) Let it go!

All of these have special meaning to me and God has used them to encourage me throughout the years. He is so good!

Happy Birthday to Jamie

2010-10-31T17:59:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday to Jamie. He is 19 today. May God bless you this year. (Pictures to follow)

Here a few of our pictures of Jamie's birthday.

I really can't remember what we said, but it did make him laugh. He wanted chocolate cake and blueberry cobbler. The chocolate cake is Kynn's mom's recipe and Marlene made the blueberry cobbler. Yummy!
Grandmomma always sends a check. It's a Good thing!.

Daisy loves the birthday boy!

One of our birthday traditions! We have a birthday basket and the birthday person gets a basket full of some of their favorite foods.

And, Daisy wanted a kiss from Marlene. It was a good day.

Happy Birthday to Jamie. He is 19 today. May God bless you this year. (Pictures to follow)

Life Lessons by Regina Brett

2010-10-13T21:40:00.003-04:00

My friend, Tammy Williamson sent this to me. I really liked it. I hope you enjoy it too.

Written by Regina Brett, 90 years old, of the Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio .> >

To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16.. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come...
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

Priscilla Shirer

2010-10-11T18:07:00.009-04:00

Priscilla Shirer was in town this past weekend. It was such a great time of teaching and fellowship with other ladies.

She is an incredible teacher and I learned a lot from her.

Her brother, Anthony Evans lead us in worship. Check him out. You will be amazed at his voice.

Marlene told Anthony to hug her like he loved her. She is too funny.

Momma came with Beckie and they stayed with Cynthia.

Diapers were donated by the ladies for Daybreak Ministries.

Kynn received this smoker for his birthday. Look closely and you will see ribs on the lower level. It is a double decker smoker. When the conference concluded, we had lunch waiting for us. It was great food and fellowship. (Bobby, Marlene, Earl, Cynthia, Beckie, Momma, Lorie and Kynn) It was a delicious treat. So glad he got the smoker for his birthday.

Happy Birthday

2010-09-29T15:40:00.003-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO KYNN

Cake and presents tonight after Bible Study! :)

Precious

2010-09-21T18:31:00.003-04:00

Baby Layla came for a visit the other night. Jonathan and Laura needed some work done on their car and also wanted a quick date night. We got to play a little while with their sweet daughter Layla. We claim her. :) I thought this was a sweet picture.

Baby Spencer

2010-09-16T21:23:00.004-04:00

Spencer Lee Harris

September 16, 1987

8lbs. 11 oz.

6:40 pm

Our first visitors

Granddaddy

Grandmomma

Aunt Cynthia, Gene and Patty

Aunt Melanie and Esther

We are home from the hospital.

Thanksgiving in Alabama. Joe and Spencer

Sweet Baby Spencer

Happy Birthday Spencer. I pray this will be a wonderful year for you. I love you.

Mom

Please pray

2010-09-06T22:36:00.004-04:00

UPDATE: Both of Lee's cats have been missing since the fire incident. She knew they had both been inside right before the fire. We have prayed that they were able to escape at some point. Yesterday, one of them came home! How awesome.

Our neighbor's house burned on Sunday afternoon. It was a very sobering moment to stand with her watching her home burn. Sigh! For the most part, she has lost everything. The firefighters did a great job of saving some of her pictures. Please pray for Lee Mutlig as she deals with this great loss. Thank you.

Four Wheeling

2010-09-04T20:53:00.004-04:00

Bobby and Marlene came over for a fish fry tonight. As usual, Kynn did a great job with the food. Marlene brought some mighty good food too. After dinner we decided that it was time to take the four wheeler for a little spin. We all got a turn.

Marlene took it wide open!

Jamie made her scream a time or two!

Daisy kept watch for the police. LOL

And, Bobby loved the ride. He wants to do this again real soon.

Here we are! Another fun Sat. night.

The Guys

2010-08-19T16:06:00.003-04:00

USC today...

2010-08-14T21:36:00.001-04:00

empty nest tonight.

Friends

2010-08-13T12:41:00.002-04:00

I may have posted this one before, but I smile when I look at this picture. What a fun time these teenagers have had together. I love all their smiles. Good times.

Ways You Can Make Your Marriage Better

2010-08-12T15:36:00.003-04:00

I came across this yesterday while I was cleaning out a drawer. Here's the short version of the article by JB Collingsworth

1. Be nice to your spouse! It is amazing how relationships improve when we decide to be nice and kind and thoughtful.

2. Watch your tongue. We choose our words and they have the power to build up or tear down.

3. Turn away from temptation and evil. God knows we will have opportunity to behave badly, but He has given instructions for our good and for the success of our marriage and family.

4. Read a Proverb a day.

5. Never forget you are not on your own! You will find joy and contentment when you lean on God and allow Him to accomplish His will in your marriage, both in the good times and in the unavoidable bad times.

Put on the Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 13:14

And, I would say, remember to ask your spouse how you can pray for them today. It will bless them and you just might learn what is going on in their heart. God is good. He is all about our marriage.

The Flying Begins

2010-08-09T14:20:00.007-04:00

This past Sunday we set out with a big truck and headed to Anderson University to move Christopher into his new house. He and 3 friends will be living in this house. This is one of several "ministry" houses on the AU campus. To live in a ministry house, an application must be submitted with hopes that you will be chosen. If you live in one of the ministry houses you must host a Bible Study, and have a specific ministry that you will be involved with throughout the year. Christopher and his roommates will have a ministry for transfer students. They are so excited to have a house instead of a dorm room this year.

Kynn's statement of the day, "Isn't there a pillow in that truck you want me to carry?" The answer was always 'NO"! :)

It was a rather HOT day.

One of the bedrooms

Dining room off the kitchen

Kitchen

Daisy helped with the move. She thought it was HOT too.

And now, there is only ONE bird left in the nest. You can just see in his eye that he is ready to fly too.

Little Birds

2010-08-07T13:46:00.005-04:00

There are two birds in the nest right now, but only for a VERY short time. Both have plans of leaving home very soon. Little bird, Christopher, will leave tomorrow and fly to Anderson to begin his senior year. Little bird, Jamie, will leave Sat. and fly to USC to begin his freshman year.

And, little bird Spencer, has never actually moved back to the nest since the day he flew to USC in the fall of 2006. He will begin his last semester at USC in the fall.

Mom and Dad bird don't really know how they feel about all the activity. They are so excited for their birds. What an exciting time of life. However, they are fully award that a major life season has come to a close. All of us are excited to see what lies ahead.

The Rodeo

2010-08-03T17:20:00.004-04:00

Out to Pasture

2010-08-02T22:20:00.005-04:00

Each night all the horses on the ranch ran up the mountain to spend the night in the pasture. The lead horses wore bells around their necks so they could find the horses the next morning. It really is a totally different life than here in Columbia. It is much calmer, less stressful, a relaxed way of living.

The Barn

2010-08-01T22:29:00.002-04:00

Just another picture

2010-07-31T10:39:00.001-04:00

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

July 29, 2010

2010-07-29T13:23:00.004-04:00

Today we are busy helping Jamie recover from his wisdom teeth removal. He took his pain medicine at 3:00 am and had a pretty good night. He has some "large" cheeks today. :) I am hoping to post pictures from our Wyo. trip by the activity and day. Not much time to start with day one right now so below are pictures of the branding of the boots. The symbol stands for Turpin Ranch. It actually looks pretty good on the boots and is most definitely a reminder of a wonderful family vacation.

Wisdom Teeth

2010-07-28T16:49:00.002-04:00

Jamie had all 4 wisdom teeth removed today. The doctor said the bottom 2 were very deep. Yikes. Please pray for him. A few rough days may be ahead of him. Nurse Marlene has been here all day to take care of him. I do love Marlene.

A pretty view

2010-07-26T16:19:00.003-04:00

Our family has just returned from an awesome vacation in Jackson, Wy. The weather was terrific and we are definately missing the cooler days back here in SC. This was just one of our views we feasted our eyes on each day of our trip. We stayed at the Turpin Meadow Ranch for six of our days. The Grand Teton Mountains are in the background of the picture and we just marvel at God's beauty. He is Glorious!
I am catching up on all of the laundry today. We are getting the house in order because Wed. will be a big day for Jamie. Wisdom teeth are coming out. YUCK. More pictures and stories on our vacation will be coming. I hope all of you are doing well. May God send his blessings to you today.

July 4th Party

2010-07-10T22:22:00.001-04:00

A digital slideshow by Smilebox

Baby Love

2010-07-09T14:03:00.002-04:00

Julie, Cynthia, and I all had some "baby love" at the 4th of July party. Julie had her granddaughter and Cynthia and I borrowed two little ones. We are excited that Cynthia and Earl will become the grandparents to a new baby girl very soon. Anne and Gene are expecting a new little one at the end of the month.

A Staycation with the newlyweds

2010-07-01T13:28:00.002-04:00

Last Friday night, our newlywed Sunday School Class came over for a "summer staycation. We began at our house for dinner and then set out on an adventure of geocaching. (A GPS scavenger hunt). After teams were formed we set out for the great hunt. Kristin, Nate, AJ, and Katie

Yummy Beaufort Stew - Thanks Kynn

Here we are!

Our activity for the evening was geocaching. We found several grocery carts.

At this location, which was called, "Off the beaten path", we actually found the the container with a plastic lizard. Thanks to Charlie Davenport for locating the hidden treasure. Our real victory came Sunday morning when our class met our high attendance goal for the summer. Way to go. We are so blessed to have the opportunity to work and serve these young couples. God is at work in their lives. It is awesome.

Gamecocks.

2010-06-30T14:14:00.001-04:00

Nothing really new here except, we are so proud to be Gamecocks today. National Champs! Way to go.

Baptism

2010-06-25T23:01:00.002-04:00

On May 30th we had the privilege of attending Newspring Church here in Columbia. Newspring's home campus is in Anderson, SC. and they have grown and have churches in Columbia, Greenville, and Florence. Christopher attends Newsprings in Anderson during the school year. This summer he has been attending the Columbia campus and recently moved his church membership to Newsprings. He made the decision to be baptised and publicly profess his faith in Jesus Christ. We are so happy for him and have enjoyed watching his faith grow.

Christopher's Home

2010-06-15T10:16:00.002-04:00

Christopher is home from Costa Rica. He had a great time and I think he said about 64 decisions were made for Christ. Awesome. There was some rejoicing in the Heavens.

I will post his thoughts and pictures when I get a minute. We are happy for that he had this experience. God is at work in and through him.

For today, I would like to encourage you to click on the blog (on the right) "Life on Beach Grove Road." You WILL be blessed and encouraged by these words. It is so hot these days. We don't just need to get in the water to cool off, but we need to SWIM.

Stay cool and may you blessed today by the Lord Jesus Christ.

Costa Rica

2010-06-11T08:19:00.002-04:00

Christopher is in Costa Rica for a mission trip. Please pray for him and that God would be glorified. Thanks.

Orientation

2010-06-03T13:31:00.002-04:00

USC orientation went really well yesterday. I have no pictures to post because Jamie would have KILLED me if I had pulled the camera out while on campus. He met a lot of other freshmen that he will probably never see again. :) He got the dorm he wanted and can't wait for move in day. That would be Aug. 14.

24 Years

2010-05-31T09:41:00.004-04:00

It's our anniversary.

24 years today.

I like that.

Graduation Day

2010-05-28T19:18:00.003-04:00

Ready to leave for Graduation

The Processional

Leaving the ceremony
Capital City Club for our celebration

(He has a whole big world in front of him)

Partying with his friends---one more time!!!

(More pictures to come. It has been a great day.)

Jamie and Nic's graduation party

2010-05-26T22:38:00.001-04:00

Digital slideshow made with Smilebox

Long ago up til now!

2010-05-23T16:10:00.024-04:00

I wanted to share some pictures of Jamie. I have spent way to much time on this post and for the life of me can not get the spacing right with the pictures. So, please just scroll and scroll and hopefully you will see his pictures through the years. His picture of his junior year has disappeared and I will RE download it when I have time. Enjoy along with me. :)

Please scroll down. :)

James Patterson Harris

2 year old preschool

3 year old preschool

4 year old preschool

Kindergarten

1st grade

2nd grade

3rd grade

4th grade

5th grade

6th grade

7th grade

8th grade

9th grade

10th grade

12th grade

Count down to Graduation

2010-05-17T16:28:00.012-04:00

In 11 days, Jamie will graduate from High School. He is so excited and if any of you have ever had a high school graduate, you know that he has mentally "checked" out already. For example, like today, he said, "Mom, can I skip first and second period?" We're just going to sit there and do nothing. It is a waste of my time."

So, what would any good mother say? ( How many absences do you have? I'm just telling you....YOU BETTER GRADUATE!!!)

You do know that he is my 3rd child. (He did not go!) :)

But, as we begin our count down to graduation, we would like to say how God has blessed us with this child. Jamie has really matured and done a great job with his education this year. He has received the award of High School Scholar, Academic All-Star, and was voted by his peers, Most Hard Working Senior. Also, he was chosen by the faculty to be one of 10 seniors to be inducted into the AC Flora Hall of Fame.

Boy, we have come a long, long way. As I looked at his Cap and Gown this morning my heart had that bitter sweet sting. He is the last bird in the nest and he is READY to fly. Last night when he was pinching me and standing "way to close" to my face, :), I almost PUSHED him right out of the sweet nest. I will miss him.

Awards night for Richland District One at the Civic Center. We were served a very nice meal.

Here he is with his bling that he receive that night.

Yes, I made him put it all on when we got home.

Here we are with our friends after Senior Class night. We ate at D's Wings.

Sweet Baby Girl

2010-05-16T22:31:00.003-04:00

Kynn and I met Jonathan and Laura Lee a little over a year ago in our Newlywed Sunday School Class. Recently, they had a beautiful baby girl join their sweet family. Layla is her name. I call her Princess Layla, or Baby Girl, or Darling. Oh my goodness, she is beautiful and so much fun to snuggle and hold. I have fallen madly in love with Layla and Jonathan and Laura share her with us. :) She has hung out with us twice at our house and we can't wait to get another chance to keep her. Congratulations Jonathan and Laura. May God richly bless you as you parent this precious little girl. ( You can bet there will be more pictures! :) )

A phone call

2010-05-09T22:16:00.003-04:00

Mother's Day

Ring, Ring

Me: Hello

Christopher: Hey Mom. Happy Mother's day.

Me: Hey! How are you?

Christopher: Oh, just a little aggravated that I could not get the key to my new dorm room. I have to wait until tonight. (He's going to summer school)

Me: I'm sorry Honey. When does your class start?

Christopher: Tomorrow.

Me: When do you think you will be able to come home?

Christopher: Oh, I don't know. It may be in about ....um.....10 seconds!

Me: (Run to the window and see his car)......scream and run to the back door.

Hug...smile....Hug some more.

Happy Mother's Day!

And.....Spencer came over too. I spent the afternoon with all my men. We all hit softballs in the front yard.....just like old times. It was fun. :) Boys, gotta love 'um.

Fun Picture

2010-05-08T21:21:00.003-04:00

I really like this picture. Look at all their faces. They were all laughing. I was taking the picture. Sure wish I could remember what was said that made them all laugh so hard. I am sure it was a smart remark to Marlene.

Good Times

2010-04-29T21:41:00.000-04:00

Do it Lord

2010-04-27T22:43:00.003-04:00

Do It Lord ( My new favorite song for this week. Yes! Do it Lord.

I see Your glory covering the earth,
LordJust as the waters are covering the sea
I see the millions coming to salvation
I see revival fire in the land
I see the lost and nameless ones remembered I see the widows shouting out your praise I see the friendless loved and celebratedOrphans fulfilling, Lord, Your calling on their lives
Do it Lord, do it Lord,Do it Lord we are praying,
Do it Lord, do it that your glory may be seen

I see the lost and nameless ones remembered
I see the widows shouting out your praise
I see the friendless loved and celebratedOrphans fulfilling,
Lord, Your calling on their lives
I see forgiveness overtaking hatred
Pride and prejudice now giving way to love
I see depression replaced with joy and gladness
And Satan's lies now bowing to the Truth
Do it Lord, do it Lord,Do it Lord we are praying,
Do it Lord, do it that your glory may be seen

This is our prayer O God
This is our desperate cry
In these days that we're living now
Let Your kingdom come
let Your will be done

I see the brokenness of families brought to wholeness
I see the prodigals running home to You
Father's hearts now turning toward their children
And the children's hearts turning toward their father's
I see Your Church rising up in power
Laying down their lives in unity and love
I hear the sounds of every tribe and nation
Giving glory to Jesus Christ the Son

Do it Lord, do it Lord,Do it Lord we are praying
Do it Lord, do it that Your glory may be seen
This is our prayer O God
This is our desperate cry
In these days that we're living now
Let Your kingdom come let Your will be done
Let Your kingdom comeLet Your will be done
Let it be on earth as it is in Heaven, amen

Christopher's walking cane

2010-04-21T21:47:00.003-04:00

Many years ago, when Kynn was 10 years old, he found a really neat stick out in the woods behind his house. As he looked at the stick, he thought that he could crave a really neat walking cane for his dad. And that is what he did and for years, Mr. Harris used the cane that Kynn made for him.

Each summer, when our boys were little, they would go to Camp Grandmomma and Granddaddy. They would spend 3 weeks in Spanish Fort, Al. with Kynn's parents. It was such a great time for everyone. Kynn's parents got to have them all to themselves for an extended time. Our boys were able to do whatever they wanted to for three weeks, (and I mean, do whatever they wanted too. Like McDonalds every day, Wal-Mart trips, just about every day and all the cokes that they wanted. It was heaven on earth for them.) It was also a great break from parenting for us. Everyone was happy!

The summer when Christopher was seven years old, the boys and Mr. and Mrs. Harris went for a hike in the woods. When they got to the creek, the boys put their feet in the water. Poor Christopher found a very sharp piece of glass. His foot was cut very badly. When they got back to the house, his sweet Grandfather cut his walking cane, which Kynn had made him, to the perfect length for Christopher to use. As we left to come home, Granddaddy handed us the cane to bring home with us.

All these years, we have hung on to this special cane. For Christopher's 21st birthday, we officially gave him the family walking cane. We also gave him another cane for his birthday. Perhaps through the years, we'll find some really neat walking canes to add to his collection.

This is the cane that Kynn gave his father.

His birthday cane.

Class of 2010

2010-04-14T14:51:00.004-04:00

The time is fast approaching. Graduation 2010. Jamie received his cap and gown, and invitations today at school. Yes, I made him put it on. This is the "first" of many goofy smiles that I will capture over the next few weeks. We have a very busy schedule with all our activities. Where has time gone? How can my youngest be graduating? More on those thoughts later. Here's to the class of

2010

Catch those foxes.

2010-04-13T15:26:00.002-04:00

Boy, I had a "fox" today. :( I was talking to my BFF Marlene and she said, "I have sent you an email that you need to read." This spoke and ministered to my heart. Thank you Lord, for speaking to me today.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Catch us the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vines…"(Song of Solomon 2:15, NKJV)

Most often, it's not the big things that happen in life that keep us from being happy; it's the small things. I've heard it said, "Tornados and hurricanes get more news coverage, but in reality, termites do more damage." That's what today's scripture is saying. Most of the time, we're not dealing with some major crisis like losing a job, a life-threatening illness, or a relationship breaking up. The big things are rare. It's the little inconveniences like not being able to find your car keys in the morning, or being in a hurry and getting behind a driver going 40 in a 60-mile-an-hour zone. It's the little interruptions and frustrations that get our emotions worked up and cause us to lose our joy and peace.
The way we handle the little things will determine what kind of life we will live. When we allow negative thoughts of frustration to come in, we are allowing the little foxes to spoil the vines. Make the decision today to "catch" those foxes by choosing to think on the right things. Let His Word bring new life to your emotions so you can move forward in the life of peace and joy the way God intends.

A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Heavenly Father, today I submit my mind, will and emotions to You. I choose to focus on Your Word and not allow the little foxes to steal my joy and peace. Keep me close to You and guide me in the way I should go. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Floyd Update

2010-04-12T16:06:00.006-04:00

Christopher just called. :) He went for a run this afternoon down by the duck pond. He stopped and called out..."FLOYD!" Well, Floyd came out of hiding and Christopher noticed that the leg tag has begun to cut into his ankle. (Does a Duck have an ankle?) LOL Christopher was able to pick up Floyd and free him of the leg tag. In Christopher's words......

"FLOYD IS OFFICIALLY FREE NOW!"

I must admit, I am happy and sad. I loved being able to know just which Duck was actually Floyd. I'm still hoping for baby Floyd ducklings.

A thought for today

2010-04-09T09:01:00.002-04:00

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues, put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Col. 3

Happy Birthday

2010-04-03T12:48:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday to my nephew, Gene Pierce. We hope you have a great day.