Walter Home - est. 1979

2010-04-20T18:09:00.003-04:00

MY SUNNY FRIEND

I remember him so well. He was always there for me from the moment I turned 16 until that fateful day six years later. I learned so much while we were together. He patiently stayed with me while I learned how to drive stick shift, yet he never reacted. Well, he did shake a bit, but that’s what made him so special to me.

With him I always had a ride wherever I wanted to go. We even took a road trip together through the night to visit my sister who lived 500 miles away! That was an experience -- full of laughter, mystery and paranoia. When we stopped to fuel up in Georgia at two in the morning, I was convinced that the station attendant was acting suspiciously. He quickly got me out of there!

We loved to listen to music – the louder the better. We would head to the beach with the windows down and bands cranking. It didn’t matter if the weather was nice or not, just being together was what made the time worthwhile. He was adept at getting in and out of the tightest spots.

Our devotion to each other was mutual. I was proud of him and loved helping him look his best, especially when he had passed through muddy waters. All my friends knew that when they saw him, there I would be too. We were inseparable. I had my parents to thank for bringing us together, and my husband to blame for setting us apart. Yes, after only six years, my husband said it was time to trade my first and most beloved car in for a newer model.

My 1973 yellow Volkswagen was more than a car – he was a friend. I named him Sunny, because he always made me smile. How much I loved him. I cried when the time came for me to drive him one last time. I knew that this was the end of an era for me. How special he was, and I always wonder where he is today. Every time I see a yellow bug I look and smile, just in case my old friend is smiling back.

2010-03-25T11:06:00.002-04:00

Get Googling Orlando!

Have you heard? Orlando has been nominated to be chosen by Google to showcase their new high speed internet through fiber optics! If chosen, we would have internet access that is 100 times faster than what we have now! Mayor Buddy Dyer has sent out the request for us to show our creativity in asking Google to pick our city. So....I pulled out the Dr. Seuss thinking cap once again, and here is what I wrote:

Orlando, the City Googleful
by Debi Walter

We've heard it said
Oh yes, it's true
That fiber is so good for you.

It's good for you
Yes, indeed,
So certainly
It must truly be
Good for Google to offer thee
A chance to test fiber optically!

Fiber Optics is the way to go
So please, oh, please won't you let us know?
Let us know if we're to be
The place to experiment
With high internet speed

Speed we want
Speed we need
Speed will help us
Talk with ease

Ease is fun, ease is good
But only when it's in our 'hood
Orlando is the City Beautiful
How much more the City Googleful

Googleful, now is that a word?
A word I'm sure I've never heard!
But like it, yes, like it, I do!
But do you like us?
You certainly should!

Should is the word we want to use
Should is why we are good
Good for you
Good for me
Good for Googling rampantly

So now that my poem has been quite heard
I hope you think it not absurd
Absurd it's NOT, absurd it ISN'T
But this I'm certain my poem is
FINISHED!

2010-02-25T12:29:00.001-05:00

February 24, 1979 - February 24, 2010

Celebrating another year of God's faithfulness to us as husband and wife! Click on the picture to view all.

Anniversary - 31

2010-01-20T11:07:00.004-05:00

This past week we received more devastating news...one of our co-workers grandson who is only 4 months old and a twin was shaken by his father in an effort to get him to be quiet. Sadly, little Camron will probably not survive, unless God performs a miracle, which we know He can.

This brings to my mind the hypocrisy of our government's support of abortion since 1973. If Camron's mother had decided 5 months ago that this baby would be inconvenient, she would have legally been allowed to end his life. What a horrible truth that many children - millions of children - an entire generation of children have been robbed of their God-given right to life! Who is man to take life from such helpless babies?

This weekend there will be an historic March For Life in Washington D.C. The message is loud and clear - we, as Americans and Christians, oppose this practice and want to expose it for the money factory it is! For those who are unable to make it to Washington in person, there is now a Virtual March For Life in which you can take part. Simply click on the box in the right hand column of this blog. There you can sign up and start walking immediately! Won't you not only stand - but "Walk for Life"?

And continue praying for Camron and his family. He has a twin brother and two older siblings making this time even more of a challenge for his mom and grandparents.

2010-01-05T18:27:00.001-05:00

LOVE YOUR NEIGHBORS

Brad Summersill and Brian Walker

There are times in our lives when the command to "love your neighbor" is a difficult task. And there are other times when you wouldn't hesitate to show love to them. Today I am experiencing the latter by the grace of God.

On New Year's Eve our neighbor's 22 year old son, Brian Walker and his friend were killed in a car accident. We went to the funeral today, and it was difficult. We listened to the stories told by friends and family with tear-filled laughter; we watched slide after slide of pictures captured in time of his life here on earth; we witnessed God provide strength to his only brother to stand and share from his heart; and we were in awe of the power God provided to his grieving parents to comfort the rest of us.

It was a day where loving my neighbor was easy. As I worked in the kitchen making sure the food was supplied and the hot drinks were ready I heard relatives comforting each other in their loss. I heard neighbors recounting memories of what Brian meant to them. I watched the family dog wander around wondering why more than 100 people were over for lunch.

Tonight we grieve with those who grieve. May God comfort them in their loss and help us to love them - not because they're our neighbors, but because we've become friends.

2009-12-27T22:43:00.001-05:00

2009-12-10T08:52:00.000-05:00

DAY 31:

LEVELING THE FLOOR

OUR LITTLE BIT OF CHRISTMAS

WE'RE FLOORED!!! THANK YOU, GOD!

2009-12-08T23:10:00.001-05:00

Day 29 and 30

2009-12-05T20:57:00.001-05:00

Days 27 and 28

Please pray - I'm not feeling so good, and it really wouldn't be good for me to get sick right now. I'm planning to go to bed early...we're supposed to babysit Bradley all afternoon tomorrow!

2009-12-04T08:54:00.004-05:00

Day Twenty Seven

Somehow my family all seems to crave Gabriel's Subs at the same time...so I took a much needed reprieve from the mess and enjoyed lunch with the gang. It was delicious as always! The pictures say it all!

2009-12-02T20:58:00.000-05:00

Day Twenty Six

2009-12-01T21:56:00.001-05:00

Day Twenty Five

2009-12-01T08:28:00.002-05:00

Day Twenty Four - these are actual work days!

We started the project on October 26th, and I've been without a kitchen sink for 37 days and counting. This is by far the hardest part! As you can see, we're making progress and by the end of the week, I may have a sink again! One can only hope...

2009-11-29T21:08:00.002-05:00

The Five Longest Days of our Renovation - no work accomplished!! UGH!

But I have an amazing husband who helps me make the best of it - the pictures say it all! I am blessed to have such a man to love! Thank you, God! Tomorrow more work begins in earnest - I pray!

2009-11-24T21:21:00.003-05:00

Day Twenty Three

Today they worked on the interior door going to the garage. It's frame wasn't square so it took quite a bit of time to fix it. I decided not to bore you with a photo. They also started the door trim around the new interior doors down the hallway.

Here's the plan - granite is scheduled to arrive on Monday - we'll see if we're ready for it. We found out we need corbels to help support the weight of the granite, and we haven't ordered them yet. So, this may be an unplanned delay - I pray not. The trim crew is supposed to come again tomorrow and then they'll all be off for four days. I'm actually looking forward to a few days off myself!

So, Happy Thanksgiving to you all! Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!!

2009-11-23T20:44:00.000-05:00

Day Twenty Two

2009-11-19T22:39:00.002-05:00

Day Twenty One

There really isn't much new to see today other than a new toilet installed in our very small guest bathroom. We decided to spare you! :-) We went to the granite fabricator today to look at the final measurements of our two slabs of granite. It is beautiful! We will most likely have it installed the week following Thanksgiving.

In the meantime we have interior doors, trim and wood flooring to install. This will be like a new home when we're finished. What a blessing from God! We plan to celebrate with a huge Open House to commemorate the graduation of our son from college with his English degree. We are so very proud of his willingness to stay the course and finish, even with a new wife and two babies within the past three and a half years. It took him 9 years, but he did it!!! Woo Hoo!

2009-11-18T18:06:00.000-05:00

I almost have a new kitchen!! I am blessed and grateful beyond words...

2009-11-17T22:05:00.001-05:00

Day Nineteen

Today is the first day we've made real progress in seeing what my new kitchen will actually look like. I love it! I can't wait to cook and bake again!

2009-11-17T08:56:00.001-05:00

Day Eighteen

Today we encountered our first real problem. We realized that when the door going into our laundry room was removed, three inches went away that are needed to line up with the cabinets on that wall. In addition the knee wall (actually the supporting wall) for the island is over too far - by 5 inches!! It took all morning to decide the best option in fixing these two problems. I must say Monarch Kitchen and Bath and Greenwich Construction conducted themselves in a professional manner; Not our normal experience with remodels - for this we thank God - and them! It is a relief to work with such people. Anyway, the plan is to add the missing three inches to the back wall and remove the extra five inches from the knee wall on Tuesday. These pictures show the discrepencies.

2009-11-16T09:27:00.001-05:00

Day Seventeen

2009-11-13T14:17:00.001-05:00

Cabinets are here!!!

2009-11-13T11:23:00.001-05:00

Day Sixteen

2009-11-11T23:21:00.002-05:00

Day Fifteen

It was another one of those days when no one showed up until the afternoon , but they still managed to get the ceiling primed and completely painted in the kitchen and laundry room. The tile guy is coming first thing tomorrow morning to grout! Then, no more mess!!!

AND...the best news of all...our cabinets will be here on Friday! I can't wait to see them - that's right, we've never actually seen our cabinet in the stain and glaze we picked. Pretty crazy, I know. No wonder I can't wait to see them!

2009-11-11T09:41:00.001-05:00

Day Fourteen

2009-11-10T10:41:00.002-05:00

Day Thirteen

2009-11-07T17:17:00.001-05:00

Day Twelve

They finished texturizing the walls and ceilings today. Next is to paint and lay tile. I'm starting to see it come together and I love it!

2009-11-06T17:23:00.001-05:00

Day Eleven

Pictures aren't much to look at from today - they finished the drywall and did the knockdown on the ceiling. It's a real mess!

2009-11-05T21:01:00.001-05:00

Day Ten

I must admit - the dust is starting to get to me and we're only about a third of the way through. But it will be so worth it when we're finished. Here's what was accomplished today:

2009-11-05T08:56:00.001-05:00

Day Nine

And there was light! Voila! Today they finished all the recessed lighting in the ceiling and drywalled everything in. It's starting to look like a real kitchen - minus the cabinets, appliances, flooring, counter tops, etc. :-) But it's progress!

2009-11-03T10:15:00.003-05:00

Day Seven - The knee walls have been installed, and the electrician worked all day fixing the existing wiring and adding new. The messiest part? Digging the trench in our foundation for a floor electrical outlet in the living room! We're making progress...

2009-11-01T21:33:00.002-05:00

Day Five and Six

I'm sorry to say no one showed up to work on these days either. It is tempting to be greatly discouraged, but it's only a house! We must keep the right perspective on things. Tom spoke with our contractor, and we're hopeful this coming week will be busy indeed!

2009-10-29T22:06:00.003-04:00

Natalie Joyce Taulbee - 7 lbs. 14 ozs. 20" God is Good!
Day Four

There was a misunderstanding about who needed to do what and when...so no one was here today. It actually worked out well, because I was able to be at the hospital for the birth of my dear friends' daughter (Jeff and Vicki Taulbee). Tomorrow the framers are coming...more pics then!

2009-10-29T09:35:00.002-04:00

Kitchen Renovation Day Two and Three: the cabinets have all been removed, the wall is completely gone between the kitchen and living room as well as the laundry room/kitchen. The tiles have all been taken out, and they are beginning to saw through the concrete slab in order to put in an electrical outlet in the floor of the living room. Ah! One day closer to being finished!!
Day Two Photos:

Day Three Photos:

2009-10-26T22:18:00.001-04:00

Kitchen Renovation Day One

2009-10-23T10:19:00.003-04:00

Our old kitchen in total disarray as we prepare for the new kitchen!

We have finally made the decisions concerning the layout. Now the work is set to begin on Monday. I'm so excited, but apprehensive as to the mess I'm about to encounter. It's only for a few weeks though...so I'll manage.

There are so many changes happening at once in our life, but God is the anchor of our soul. He is keeping us tethered to Him, and this is good!

Blogging on The Romantic Vineyard takes up the majority of my computer time, so this site has been sorely neglected. I post quickly and frequently on Facebook, so if you're not on FB, I apologize for my lack of communication.

I'll post pictures here as the renovations progress!

2009-09-07T22:37:00.002-04:00

2009-08-27T10:38:00.001-04:00

Bradley has partial webbed toes on both feet. Here is a close up of his adorable toes! I didn't know until now that my Mom also has webbed toes, so I guess it runs in the family - who knew?

2009-08-24T14:22:00.003-04:00

Unexpected Blessing!
Today I received news that I've won the grand prize in WLOQ's Jazz Up Your Kitchen contest. Monarch Kitchen and Bath Designs are giving me a $15,000 cabinet makeover! I can't believe it! Here is the poem I submitted that won:

If Dr. Seuss lived in my house...

I want to win oh yes I do - I love to cook but this won't do
"Won't do" you say, what do you mean?
You're kitchen looks so shiny and clean!
Clean it is, I will admit, but these old cabinets are warped and split
They split and warped when the rain clouds came
The rain it came without refrain
It rained inside like a faucet true
It rained so hard I knew not what to do

But now I have this chance you see
I'm grateful for the opportunity
Opportunities come but once they say
So please won't you consider my kitchen today?
Last week I turned the big 5-0
And what a gift this would be you know?

You know it's time for me to stop
Like a cocoon that's finished sealed to the top
I want my kitchen to break free and be
A Monarch flying quite easily
It's beauty is there for all to see
Please oh please won't you consider me?

So now I'm waiting to get a phone call from them to schedule our first consultation. What a blessing! Thank you, God!

2009-08-22T09:53:00.001-04:00

Since we were celebrating Tom's 55th birthday, I decided to give him a day of doubles; fried eGGS and coFFEE for breakfast, guMMy bears and a HaPPy Birthday baLLOOn delivered to his oFFice, then, the pictures below tells the rest - it was a fun day!

2009-08-18T15:34:00.002-04:00

We had a wonderful evening celebrating Tom and Ashley's birthdays with all of Tom's family. His Dad and Stepmom are in town from California! What a blessing Tom is to so many. What a gift Ashley is to our family! We're thanking God today for both of them.

2009-08-11T13:13:00.003-04:00

Tom took me to see the movie, Julie and Julia last night, and I wasn't expecting to be affected so emotionally by it. It was one of those movies where I could relate on so many fronts - blogging, writing, cooking, and a special love for France. What a memory. If you haven't seen it yet, I recommend it!

However, be warned that the previews to this movie were disconcerting to say the least. There is one movie coming soon titled, 2012, about the end times, and it brought me to tears. And that was only the trailer! There were others that were just as disturbing.

All in all it was a wonderful evening with my husband. We've been bowling for the past 12 Monday nights, so it's nice to have our Monday nights back for just us!

Now I have this craving to cook - Bon Appetit!

2009-08-06T21:22:00.002-04:00

I know its been too long since I've posted. I've been busy on Facebook, but I have this really adorable picture I wanted to share. It is the first time all four grandchildren have been to Papa and Nana's house together. Bristol and Norah share everything together...even becoming BIG sisters. Aren't they cute? All four of them?

2009-07-14T09:58:00.004-04:00

This is a glimpse into my day yesterday! It was a typical hot and humid Florida day, but the sun was shining warmly in this Nana's heart! (If you click on the picture it will take you to my Picasa Web Album where you'll get to watch an adorable video of our walk!)

2009-07-09T10:49:00.000-04:00

We gladly welcome Willow Journey Walter into our lives this day! She weighs 9 lbs., 2 ozs. and is 21.5 inches long. Ashley put a 3 month outfit on her, and it fits! No newborn clothes for this healty little girl! We couldn't be happier for this blessing from God. As Bristol said so sweetly, "I wike her!"

2009-07-05T22:18:00.003-04:00

It's been a long weekend, but strange...we haven't been able to make plans, so everything we do takes place at the last minute. Why? Because we're waiting for Willow and Bradley to enter our world. It's a great thing to wait for, but it feels as if life is on hold. And once the hold button is lifted, life will never be the same.

It's amazing to realize that only two years ago I didn't know what it would be like to be a Nana. Now I can't imagine life without Bristol or Norah. I know that this will be true with Willow and Bradley too. But I haven't a clue.

So, we wait. And wait and wait and wait. Tracy is trying desperately to get Bradley to turn from his breach position - even attempting some unconventional methods; I pray they work. Part of me remembers being in the same position with my second child only to discover that she (being Tracy) was breach too. The only difference...I didn't find out until I had been in labor for 12 hours. An emergency C-section was my only option.

So I ask for your prayers! Please pray that Bradley will turn, and that Willow will arrive strong and healthy. I do know one thing for certain...this time a month from now I'll be holding both of these little babies in my arms, amazed once again at the miracle of life! It doesn't get any better than that!

Good night!

2009-06-29T09:09:00.000-04:00

FAMILY GARAGE SALE!

Our First (and maybe last) Garage Sale wasn't as good as we'd hoped, but it was good enough to provide the money Tracy and Ashley needed for some things. Thank you, God! The girls did well for the most part. Here are a few photos - I didn't take many because it was hot and we were busy doing other things. Big thanks to Great Grandma Germain who came on Friday to help with the girlies. I don't know who had more fun - the girls or the Great Grandma!

2009-06-22T17:51:00.002-04:00

Father's Day 2009

These pictures say it all - we had a full, but fun day!

2009-06-19T17:04:00.003-04:00

Another Father's Day without my Dad. It is difficult, yet I rejoice knowing he is in the place where he was ultimately created to be and with the One for whom we were all made! I still miss his voice and his hugs; I guess I always will. Happy Father's Day, Daddy!

On a happier note, another Father's Day with my sons and their children - what a blessing it is to be the grandparents! Time never goes more quickly than when you're watching little ones grow. Next year we'll add two more to the pics.

2009-06-16T14:24:00.004-04:00

MOTHER'S DAY WITH ALL MY CHILDREN!

It is summer - Tom is away for two days for continued education for Nass' gas license - and everything that was pending on our calendar has passed. Now we're waiting for two little babies to arrive - Willow in the next three weeks and Bradley in the next 6 weeks. We are excited!

Heather has completely recovered from her medical nightmare and returned to work last Tuesday. However, she learned on Friday that she was laid off. :-( That's right - no nepotism at Nass Parts and Service! Tom knew that she had dreams of going to cosmetology school, so this seemed to be the right time for it. She is planning to start in August for a 10 month certification program. It also looks like she may have a part time job available to her...we'll see. She is also going on a Missions Trip to Dominican Republic the end of July.

Jason and Ashley are in the throes of buying a house. We're helping them get quotes on repairs, work with the Realtor and the financial adviser towards the mortgage, and babysitting Bristol when they need it. A contractor has been secured to begin the bidding process on the necessary work. He thinks they may be able to do all the work in 2 - 3 weeks! That's amazing!

We're playing on our church's Bowling League again. Our team is called Bosse Bowlers because we play with friends, Bob and Bonnie Anderson, who live in our neighborhood! Besides, I can be bossy! :-) It's a lot of fun playing with friends and family for 10 weeks each summer.

I guess that's about it! I'm spending a lot of time writing, but not on my book. Hopefully, this fall I'll be able to get to work on it.

2009-06-12T08:59:00.001-04:00

Tea For Two - A Tradition begins...

Yesterday was Bristol's 2nd birthday and tomorrow is Norah's. I love spending time with these two little two year olds! I have always loved a good cup of tea, so it's only natural for me to want to share this enjoyment with my little girlies.

Yesterday the tradition began at The Hart Sisters Tea Room located in downtown Sanford. Ashley, Bristol, Tracy and Norah met me there to enjoy our first Birthday Tea. As the girls grow this will be a time for the three of us, but at the tender (and clumsy) age of two I didn't think I could handle the two of them with all that fine china! :-)

Bristol and Norah, I am looking forward to a lifetime of loving you and demonstrating for you the love of Christ. I have committed to pray for you diligently and to come alongside your parents to help you grow in godliness for His glory and your good. Your Papa and I love you more than we ever imagined was possible, and we want you to know we are ever interceding before the Throne of Grace for you!

2009-06-08T12:32:00.001-04:00

Bradley Vincenzo Lytle's baby shower was yesterday, and what a wonderful celebration we enjoyed. Below are a few pictures:

2009-05-31T17:02:00.005-04:00

Norah Lytle loves horses

Seth and Tracy Lytle - Happy Anniversary!

Jason, Ashley and Bristol - Happy Anniversary!

We have had quite a gambit of emotions taking place in our family:

Heather celebrated her 23rd birthday the day after receiving a vaccination for her upcoming missions trip to Bolivia. However, she is in the hospital with an adverse reaction to it. This after visiting the ER three times in one week.
Tracy and Seth celebrated their 4th wedding anniversary.
Jason and Ashley will celebrate their 3rd wedding anniversary on the 3rd of June. And Bristol and Norah will turn 2 on the 11th and 13th of this month respectively.

Where has the time gone? In only 1 month we'll add Willow Journey Walter to our family tree and a month after that Bradley Lytle will arrive.
And smack in the middle of their arrivals I'll turn the big 5 - 0!!

God is good.

Even in the uncertainty of Heather's stay in the hospital there is an overriding peace that God is in control. He cares deeply for Heather, and we are certain that He is guiding us as well as the doctors through these times. As I sit here in the hospital room waiting for another test to take place, God is here. He has promised to never leave me or forsake me - what a promise!

2009-05-14T15:50:00.005-04:00

We've started a tradition in the Walter family - Annual Easter pictures. Here is the one Tracy had made for me for Mother's Day. I think it's adorable, so I had to share it with you. Bristol and Norah will be 2 on June 11th and June 13th respectively. And they've become big sisters in July and August - Bristol to a baby sister, Willow; and Norah to a little brother, Bradley. What a blessing to go from 0 - 4 grandchildren in two years. God's kindness is overwhelming!

Norah's Rainy Day

2009-04-23T23:35:00.001-04:00

We haven't seen rain in Orlando in quite awhile. It was quite the event - worth videoing. Norah loved it, but it was quite c-c-c-cold! As Piglet would say.

Norah's Rainy Day

2009-04-23T23:34:00.001-04:00

We haven't seen rain in Orlando in quite awhile. It was quite the event - worth videoing. Norah loved it, but it was quite c-c-c-cold! As Piglet would say.

Heather's Metro BB Game

2009-04-19T21:56:00.001-04:00

We spent the afternoon at our church's gym watching Heather play. Here's a clip of one great assist! Way to go, Heather!

2009-04-07T16:26:00.001-04:00

We had an exhausting day yesterday having Easter pictures taken of Bristol and Norah. Norah fell asleep right away, but Bristol fought it. This video says it all!!

2009-03-27T17:59:00.000-04:00

This is a recent picture of Tom with his Mama - isn't it great? We are blessed to have her and Pops live here in Oviedo where we get to see them often! We love you Mom!

2009-03-26T18:53:00.002-04:00

My fourth great niece was born on Wednesday morning at 1:40a. Riley Ann McKelvey weighed 8 lbs. 9 ozs. and is 20.5 inches long. As you can see by the picture she is absolutely perfect!

Chris (Daddy), Amy (Mommy) and Peyton (big sister) are very happy to have a new little one to love. Isn't God good?

2009-03-17T15:16:00.001-04:00

AN IRISH PRAYER

May God give you...
For every storm, a rainbow,
For every tear, a smile,
For every care, a promise,
And a blessing in each trial.
For every problem life sends,
A faithful friend to share,
For every sigh, a sweet song,
And an answer for each prayer.

2009-03-12T08:17:00.003-04:00

How Rich Are You?

I recently came across this site that takes your annual income and figures out how rich you are compared to the rest of the world. In these difficult economic times, it helps to remember how blessed I truly am. I can't complain - I have a home, a car, food to eat whenever I want, family, friends, a God-glorifying Church, and a Savior who guarantees I have a future after this life is over.

Thank you, God, for this simple tool to remind me of your goodness, and help me to remember EVERY DAY that my abundance is for Your purposes not my own. In Jesus' precious name, I pray - Amen!

I'm the 29,907,929 richest person on earth!

Discover how rich you are! >>

2009-03-10T10:41:00.002-04:00

A Fun Day At Nana's - yummy kettle corn, good books and a breeze that sings! Click on the picture below to view the slideshow.

Fun at Nana's

2009-03-05T08:04:00.006-05:00

Thank you all for praying for my Mom. She is recovering well! I am on my way up to the hospital for the day. My sister spent the night with her and said they were up every hour, but that my Mom is doing very well.

In my quiet time this morning I read this Grace Gem that is so good I had to share it with you. I have another granddaughter due in July; her name is Willow Journey. I have jokingly said, "I pray she isn't a weeping willow!" But after reading this devotion I pray she is! Oh, Father, give Willow the tears of a repentant heart that fall like diamonds from her eyes! Enjoy!

A choice mercy!

(Thomas Watson)

"Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered." Psalm 32:1

Pardon of sin is a choice mercy. This jewel God hangs upon none but His elect.

Pardon of sin draws the silver link of grace, and the golden link of glory after it. It is a voluminous mercy--there are many mercies bound up with it.

The pardoned sinner is a weeping sinner. Never did any man read his pardon with dry eyes! Look upon that weeping penitent, "she stood behind Christ weeping." Tears were distilled out of her penitent heart! O, how precious were Mary's tears--surely more costly in Christ's esteem than her ointment! They dropped from her eyes--as so many
diamonds!

Her amorous eyes, whose sparkles had so often set on fire all her lovers, she now seeks to be revenged on them--and washes Christ's feet with her tears! Her embroidered hair, which had so often as a net, ensnared others--she now makes it towel to wipe Christ's feet! Here was a pardoned penitent. A pardon will turn the stony heart into a spring of tears! O sinner, ask yourself the question--Is your heart dissolved into tears? Does it melt for sin? God seals His pardons only upon melting hearts.

Nothing can melt the stony heart of a sinner--but the blood of Christ.

The pardoned sinner looks upon a bleeding Christ--with a bleeding heart.

(Notice the Verse of Day above: Deuteronomy 6:6-7)

2009-03-03T13:02:00.000-05:00

Double the fun at the water fountain!

2009-02-25T11:30:00.002-05:00

What a beautiful day we had yesterday. Here are some pictures I took of my granddaughters as we played in the leaves.

2009-02-24T09:27:00.001-05:00

I'm working on a romantic dinner for Tom tonight - it's our 30th anniversary! He sent me this cartoon that made me laugh!!

2009-02-23T10:09:00.001-05:00

Here's the slide show of Pooh's Mountain Adventures, including all the pictures we sent home to Bristol and Norah while we were gone. I think we enjoyed sending them as much as they enjoyed receiving them.

2009-02-23T09:42:00.008-05:00

It is good to be home! We had a wonderful time away with Mike and Cindy Gilland in the cold mountains for North Carolina. Here are a few (66) of the many (almost 400) pictures we took this past week. There are stories and memories we will hold close for a long time.

Thank you, Mike and Cindy, for your friendship and for joining us on this vacation. We love you!

Swiss Mountain Village with Gillands

2009-02-19T15:51:00.004-05:00

First of all I want to say, "Happy Birthday" to my wonderful Mother-in-law, Dolores Germain! What a gift from God you are to our family!

We have been away in North Carolina where it is very cold. We are missing Bristol and Norah - very much! They both love Winnie The Pooh, so we brought one of Norah's Pooh bears with us on our trip and have been sending them pictures of "Pooh's Adventures" through Tom's iphone. I think we've had more fun taking the pictures - lol!

This morning we awoke to 50 mph wind gusts and snow flurries with a temperature in the low 20's. Brrr! So what did we do? We put on layers of clothes, found a scarf for Piglet and headed out to the swingset so we could video a Pooh's Mountain Adventures. Mike Gilland put it together for us in the following movie that we lovingly dedicate to Bristol and Norah!

2009-02-13T09:30:00.001-05:00

Happy 30th Anniversary, Tom. I love sharing life with you!

2009-02-09T09:29:00.006-05:00

We are on the beautiful island of Provenciales in the western Turks and Caicos Islands. The resort that Tom is working for is called Beaches and is an all-inclusive resort - kind of like a cruise, but on land. I'm loving it! Tom left to work with Andre' today going through all the kitchens in the new Italian Village section. He is hoping to finish quickly so we can have some time together while here. I'm planning to work on my book while he is working, so it will be time well-spent for me.

Now for the cool part. Those of you who go to Metro Life Church know that we recently went through a series called "Proclaim" - Joining God in the Unstoppable Spread of the Gospel. It's about sharing the Gospel with everyone we associate with on a daily basis. We were talking about how God postponed our trip so many times, and wouldn't it be just like Him to make it so we could meet certain people that wouldn't have been here if we had come sooner? We prayed that God would help us to share the Gospel.

As soon as we got in the hotel's shuttle from the airport the radio was playing Christian music! The song playing was one I had never heard before, but the message was quite current: "I am not ashamed of the Gospel!" How kind of God to remind us of our desire and to let us know that He had heard our prayer.

That evening as Andre' was taking us for a walk around the resort, he told us that he had been in Orlando only a week ago! He asked us where we live because he has a townhouse there. After telling him we asked where his townhouse was located - he said in a city called Casselberry! We couldn't believe it - of course we told him that's where our church is located! He asked what church and so the dialog began. Tom left this morning to spend the day with him equipped with the How Good Are You tract. Pray that he will have an opportunity to share the Gospel with him today. Pray that we will have even more opportunities as we enjoy the beauty of God's creation.

2009-02-06T10:15:00.001-05:00

The NAFEM (North American Food Equipment Manufacturers) show is currently at the Orlando Convention Center and has kept us busy with meetings, dinners and surprisingly - awards - for Tom and Nass Parts and Service.

We were invited to dinner by Manitowoc, a manufacturing company that we provide parts and service for; it was held at Epcot's America Pavillion in their Grand Rotunda. This is the same company that honored Tom in 2004 with the National Award of Excellence. After photo ops with Mickey Mouse, and a nice dinner they announced four national awards. Tom was surprised to hear Nass Parts and Service's name called for the "Excellence For Training" award. What an honor (for Tom) and joy (for me) to watch my husband commended for his pursuit of training those in his company. What did he do with the award as soon as he sat down? He handed it to Jim Kramer, our service manager, because Tom said he is the one who should have this award for the way he leads our Service Department. That's my husband - and I couldn't be more proud to share life with him. Congratulations Tom - I love you!

2009-02-02T21:30:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful rainy day we had today! Who doesn't enjoy finding a great book and comfortable spot to relax while the rain pelts the window? You're never too young to start such a comforting practice. Here are some pics I took today while I was babysitting Norah this afternoon and Bristol tonight. When we did our addition to our home 6 years ago, and I asked the contractor to design a window seat for me, this was the dream I had - one day snuggling up with my grandchildren and sharing a good book with them. Today that dream was fulfilled. The book of choice? Why Winnie The Pooh - of course! Silly ol' bear!

2009-01-31T08:06:00.002-05:00

Will You Pray For President Obama and Our Nation?

There is a prayer initiative to commit to pray for President Obama's first 100 days from his inauguration on January 20th to April 29th. All you need do is sign up HERE and an e-mail will be sent to you each morning with a prayer. How our nation needs prayer - how our President needs God's wisdom and direction. Will you join me?

2009-01-27T08:25:00.005-05:00

Family Reunions are a lot of work to organize, but the pay off is priceless. This past weekend we gathered my maternal grandfather's side of the family together at a hotel near the Orlando Airport. It's About Time was the theme because we haven't had one in a long time. Ashley Walter provided the perfect cake, and it was delicious too!

We had over 60 come from all over the country - California, North Carolina, South Carolina and Oklahoma, not to mention all my cousins from Lake and Polk Counties. We ate a delicious catered lunch from Bubbalou's Bodacious BBQ, shared stories, took pictures (thanks to Aubrey Reel!) and made a huge family tree on the wall with 3 x 5 cards. This was the best visual aid ever, and it saved my Mom from having to say answer this question over and over again, "Now how are we related?". If you are working on a family tree I highly recommend MyHeritage.com to you. What a helpful program to organize and research your family roots.

Tom added his part to the family tree showing how we all connect; He added "Adam and Eve" at the very top - thanks, Sweetie, that really cleared things up!

My favorite part of the weekend was Saturday evening when all the out of town relatives gathered around a large table and took turns drawing cards from my Table Topics for Family Gatherings cube. This is a wonderful tool to use whenever you want to have a meaningful conversation, but aren't sure how to get one started. The stories we heard made us laugh, made us cry, made us reflect and made us grateful for all that God has done in our family through the years.

2009-01-15T15:43:00.000-05:00

I have been quite busy the past few days setting up all the e-mails for our Route 66 Club. This is a read through the Bible e-mail group I started a couple of years ago that has continued to grow each year. It's basically encouraging ladies to make God's Word a priority by committing to read it daily. They can choose whatever plan works best for them. I send out encouraging e-mails every now and then to help keep everyone motivated and focused. Last year we had 13 ladies read through the Bible. I'm having them all over the end of the month to celebrate their accomplishment. This year we have 55 ladies and several men (Tom is heading up that group) signed up - isn't that wonderful? How about you? Have you ever read through all of God's Word? May I encourage you to give it a try. God promises that His Word never returns void. If you would like to join simply comment to this post and I'll add your e-mail to the list as well as send you more pertinent information.

On another note, my son-in-law, Seth, is celebrating his 28th birthday this Saturday! What a gift he has been to my daughter and to our family. Thank you, God, for sending Seth to us - we love him and can't imagine life without his laughter and love of life. And having Norah is an added bonus with another little Lytle on the way. Happy Birthday, Seth. I love you bunches!
Below are some pictures of a night out we had with Seth and Tracy to the Texas de Brazil Restaurant on I-Drive.
He had a couple of half off coupons, and I must say the food was incredible. We had a great time, but only wish we didn't fill up so fast.
You can sign up on their website to receive a free meal on your birthday

2009-01-07T09:20:00.001-05:00

Both Ashley and Tracy had a difficult moments last week when their midwife couldn't find the heartbeat of their little babies. Both had to go for an unplanned ultrasound, and both (joyfully) received the good news that all is fine in the hidden place where their new baby is being knit together by God.

As we waited I was amazed to see how they walked through this trial. Neither gave into fear, at least not for long, but they displayed a faith-filled confidence that God was in control. How this glorifies our God, and displays it beautifully for others to see.

Arthur Pink said, "As there are certain vegetables, fruits, and flowers which cannot be grown in lands which are unvisited by nipping winds and biting frosts--so there are some fruits of the Spirit which are only produced in the soil of severe trials, troubles and tribulations."

Ashley and Tracy evidenced peace that surpasses understanding, which is a fruit of the Spirit. They may not have realized that this fruit was growing in the soil of their hearts, but this trial revealed that it certainly is - God is at work and making them into the Mommies their babies will need to lead them to Him. What a day that will be!

This picture was a drumming session that erupted in our kitchen with Heather at one end and Papa on the other helping them "feel the beat". Bristol drums with her feet better than her hands - we call them "happy feet". Norah seems to have the rhythm built into her bones. The matching Christmas jammies are from Papa and Nana! Adorable - and to think that there are two more on the way! We are rich indeed!

2009-01-02T23:43:00.000-05:00

This is a sample of our New Year's Day together as a family. Ashley and Tracy weren't feeling very well, the guys were watching football, and Heather was pretty tired from being up all night at a youth Lock-In at our church. So, Tom and I took the girls out for a walk behind our backyard where we just happened upon an orange tree. The pictures say it all! Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-01T08:30:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year!

It's 2009. I received this amazing article from Pastor John Piper this morning. What a perfect declaration to make the first day of this New Year. The verse at the end is my life verse - 1 Peter 1:8-9. I couldn't agree with his declaration more!

I Love Jesus Christ

An Unforgettable Moment in Seminary

December 31, 2008
By John Piper

Read this article on our website.

One of the most memorable moments of my seminary days was during the school year 1968-69 at Fuller Seminary on the third level of the classroom building just after a class on systematic theology. A group of us were huddled around James Morgan, the young theology teacher who was saying something about the engagement of Christians in social justice. I don’t remember what I said, but he looked me right in the eye and said, “John, I love Jesus Christ.”

It was like a thunderclap in my heart. A strong, intelligent, mature, socially engaged man had just said out loud in front of a half dozen men, “I love Jesus Christ.” He was not preaching. He was not pronouncing on any issue. He was not singing in church. He was not trying to get a job. He was not being recorded. He was telling me that he loved Jesus.

The echo of that thunderclap is still sounding in my heart. That was 40 years ago! There are a thousand things I don’t remember about those days in seminary. But that afternoon remains unforgettable. And all he said was, “John, I love Jesus Christ.”

James Morgan died a year later of stomach cancer, leaving a wife and four small children. His chief legacy in my life was one statement on an afternoon in Pasadena. “I love Jesus Christ.”

Loving Jesus is natural and necessary for the children of God. It’s natural because it’s part of our nature as children of God. “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God” (John 8:42). The children of God have the natural disposition to love his Son.

Loving Jesus is also necessary because Paul says that if you don’t love Jesus, you will be cursed: “If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed” (1 Corinthians 16:22). Loving Jesus is an essential (not optional) mark of being a beneficiary of God’s grace. “Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible” (Ephesians 6:24). If you hold fast to the love of anything above Jesus, you are not his disciple: “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me” (Matthew 10:37).

Loving Jesus is not the same as obeying all of Jesus’ commands. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). That means that obedience to the commandments is the result of loving Jesus, not the same as loving Jesus. Love is something invisible and inside. It is the root that produces the visible fruit of loving others.

So here at the beginning of 2009, I join James Morgan in saying, “I love Jesus Christ.”

And as I say it, I want to make clear what I mean:

I admire Jesus Christ more than any other human or angelic being.
I enjoy his ways and his words more than I enjoy the ways and words of anyone else.
I want his approval more than I want the approval of anyone else.
I want to be with him more than I want to be with anyone else.
I feel more grateful to him for what he has done for me than I do to anyone else.
I trust his words more fully than I trust what anyone else says.
I am more glad in his exaltation than in the exaltation of anyone else, including me.

Would you pray with me that in 2009 we would love Jesus Christ more than we ever have? And may our Lord Jesus grant that from time to time we would deliver quietly and naturally a thunderclap into the hearts of others with the simple words, “I love Jesus Christ.”

“Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory” (1 Peter 1:8).

2008-12-27T19:01:00.004-05:00

Today we decided to visit an authentic German Bakery and Deli that my mom has been telling us about. It's in a little town called Yalaha, and it's appropriately named Yalaha Bakery. They have lots of events on the weekends. Check out their website for directions and let us know if YOU think it was worth the trip. We sure did - thanks, Mom!

2008-12-24T09:12:00.005-05:00

From our home to yours - Merry Christmas!

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ, the Lord!"

2008-12-17T16:49:00.008-05:00

Out With The Old, In With The New

Tom gave me my Christmas present a little early this year; he bought me a brand new kitchen table complete with four chairs and a bench. I love it!

As Tom was busy putting it together in the garage, I was moving our old set onto the back patio. Unexpectedly, I had feelings of sadness - what fond memories this table holds - this is where we shared thousands of meals, conversations, prayers, laughter, tears, and...life...our family's life! This is where I taught my girls how to bake. This is where we dissected and labeled various things for science class. Now it was no longer holding such a prominent place in our home, in fact it is now listed for sale on Craigslist!

Of course I realize that selling this table is the right thing to do. We have no room for it anywhere else. Soon it will belong to someone else. All I will have is a photo to remember it by, and I do have a very nice new set. This is the table that will capture many new memories - teaching my granddaughters how to bake, having all the family over for a spontaneous meal that's sure to include laughter and tears. The kitchen table doesn't make the family, but the family that gathers together at the kitchen table - that's what memories are made of!

NOTE: I just found a great product to help families that gather around the table have meaningful conversations. It's called Table Topics and would make a great Christmas gift. There are several editions sure to fit the age group of those who gather around your kitchen table.

2008-12-13T13:24:00.002-05:00

Walter Girls' Baking Day 2008

Sadly, Grandma Germain and Heather couldn't join us this year and were greatly missed. But the little girls had a great time!

Walter Girls Baking Day

2008-12-11T09:46:00.004-05:00

Just What Is A Bash?

For the past few months we have been busy getting ready for our church's Christmas Bash. This is a night to celebrate what God has done in us during 2008, as well as a time to laugh at ourselves. Tomorrow night is the big event! If you live near, why not plan to join us - the cost is only $5 and the doors open at 7p.

Are you not sure what a Bash is? Read the poem I've written below - in Dr. Seuss style:

Twas the week of the Bash and all through our church

Questions were stirring for answers they searched

Just what may I ask what is a Bash

A Bash you see is a memory that lasts

Lasts? So you say if it lasts tell me why

Why must we answer this question? Please try!

Try yes, indeed, try yes, I will

The Bash is the time where we gather and fill

We fill our hearts full way up to the top

We fill it with laughter until the tears drop.

We laugh at ourselves, we laugh at the jokes

We laugh at Mike Nash who’s hilarious when poked

The skits are quite funny the props add so much

The people who do things - surprises and such

Do things, you say, what things do they do?

Oh, I can’t tell you that – it’s a surprise for you too.

I think I’m beginning to see it quite clear

The Bash only comes around once in three years?

Three years it is since we last had a Bash

And three it twill be once this one is past

The time is well spent and the money not much

In fact you can come – for only 5 bucks

5 bucks did you say? That’s less than a movie

And I might add the skits are quite groovy

Groovy, oh my, that is such a word

A word I think another’s preferred

Smashing, would work, it is smashing indeed

All who have come can testify our creed

Creed, please do tell what is the Bash creed?

It’s to take time to gather as a church family

We laugh at ourselves we laugh quite a lot

But this isn’t half of what makes the Bash hot

The best part you see, is seeing God’s hand

And how He has worked in helping us stand

We’ve had quite a year, we each can so tell

We tell how God’s faithful He leads us so well

So this will conclude our rhyming and prose

We hope you will join with us and with those

Who are working to make this year’s Bash quite a smash

And hope yet again it’s a memory that lasts.

2008-12-02T07:44:00.004-05:00

Nana's Ark (and Papa's too!)

Have you heard our news? Jason and Ashley told us three weeks ago that they were expecting another baby the first of July 2009. We are so excited and celebrate with them. She even made a cake to depict this glorious announcement! You can see it HERE on her blog.

Well, more as a joke, Tracy and Seth decided Thanksgiving morning to do a pregnancy test to see if she was pregnant too, since they were expecting together last time. (If you recall Bristol and Norah were born 41 hours apart!) They certainly didn't expect a faintly positive result (the test they used was old). This took them quite by surprise sending them to Walgreen's to purchase a brand new test. This one left no doubts; Seth and Tracy are expecting another baby too, three weeks after Jason and Ashley. Can anyone say, "Deja Vu"? You can read their story HERE.

So, it seems God is filling our ark two by two maybe we should call it Nana's "Heart" - I like that! Ashley is really sick with this pregnancy - if you think of her, please pray that this will pass quickly. July is a long way away.

2008-11-29T21:32:00.003-05:00

We are blessed as Americans to have had the leadership of President George W. Bush these past 8 years. Has he made mistakes? Yes, I'm sure he has. But has he led us from convictions that were unwavering? I believe the answer to this is a resounding YES!

Stephen Curtis Chapman has written a very special song to honor this man who is a man just like us yet has carried the burden of keeping the citizens of our nation safe. He is about to close the door on this chapter of his life, yet his concern will remain. Listen to this song and pray for George and Laura Bush as they must hand over their responsibilities and their home to Mr. and Mrs. Obama. God help us through this transition.

2008-11-26T18:41:00.003-05:00

A Thanksgiving Quote worth remembering:

For, after all, put it as we may to ourselves, we are all of us from birth to death guests at a table which we did not spread. The sun, the earth, love, friends, our very breath are parts of the banquet... Shall we think of the day as a chance to come nearer to our Host, and to find out something of Him who has fed us so long? - Rebecca Harding Davis

Don't you love this picture of gratefulness for all that God has spread before us since the day we were born? Times are difficult for many of us this year and life has taken an uncertain turn, but may we never lack gratefulness to God for all the rich bounty He has spread before us. And most of all - We have Him! The greatest gift of all!

2008-11-25T20:24:00.000-05:00

Tracy came over today, and we enjoyed a nice cup of hot tea together. Check out these cool tea bags that Kathy Morgan gave me for my birthday. I had Earl Gray and Tracy had Chai - it tasted as good as it looks too (thanks, Kathy!). The last picture is a candlabra we made together. I found the wrought iron piece in a dilapidated barn in the back of our cousins antique store in upstate New York. After a bit of paint and bling, I think it looks pretty amazing!

Tomorrow I'll be baking all day, except for having lunch with my Aunt Hazel at the nursing home. We went last year, and they do a very nice dinner for the residents and their families. She is declining quickly, mentally that is. Physically she's a fit as ever at 89 years old. There's no way she can go out of the home now, which is so sad, but she doesn't really know it. However, she did manage to say when we saw her last Sunday one coherent sentence; it was "I miss you!" It brought tears to our eyes.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving as you reflect on all that God has provided for us through the Cross. Amazing grace so vast and free!

2008-11-25T07:51:00.002-05:00

Look Who's One!

I was tagged by Praise - and this is the picture I was told to post. Aren't they adorable? This is from Peyton McKelvey's first birthday party. The girls in the background are from left to right: Chloe Graham, Alexis Graham, Mason Bryan (my great niece).

It's my job to tag 5 more bloggers: Stephanie Jessee, Tracy Lytle, Ashley Walter, Tammy Griffith, Cissy Vanlue

The Rules: go to Your Pictures file go to the 5th folder open up the 5th picture and post it then tag 5 people when you are done.

2008-11-21T07:53:00.004-05:00

Dahlia from the Biltmore Gardens

Thanksgiving is next week, and I haven't had much time to even think about it. Life has been full of caring for sick grandchildren, sick children as well as taking care of the normal routines of life. I am tired, but underneath it all is the overwhelming sense that it is God who gives meaning to everything "my hand finds to do!"

What if my life were to change? What if our nation's economy doesn't bounce back quickly? What if the trickle down effect of poor, greedy choices by those in high places, causes my daily routine to change?

The Truth remains: God is still the One I live for. He is my Father, the One in Whom I trust! I remind myself of what His Son was willing to do for me (suffering and dying on a cruel cross), so that I might live for Him. How can I complain? How can I grumble? My greatest need has already been taken care of, my sins are forgiven, and I am free to love and serve God the way He created me to do from the beginning of time.

These are the thoughts I'm choosing to meditate on this Thanksgiving. God is in control, and He alone is worthy of my heartfelt praise. Our culture encourages us to "give thanks", but often focuses on giving thanks to those we love. I want to make sure that I'm giving thanks to the only One truly worthy of Praise - Our Heavenly Father! He holds everything in the palm of His hand, yet He takes thought of you and me. What a Savior - What a Friend!

We Gather Together Hymn

We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing;
He chastens and hastens His will to make known.
The wicked oppressing now cease from distressing.
Sing praises to His Name; He forgets not His own.

Beside us to guide us, our God with us joining,
Ordaining, maintaining His kingdom divine;
So from the beginning the fight we were winning;
Thou, Lord, were at our side, all glory be Thine!

We all do extol Thee, Thou Leader triumphant,
And pray that Thou still our Defender will be.
Let Thy congregation escape tribulation;
Thy Name be ever praised! O Lord, make us free!

2008-11-14T15:57:00.003-05:00

My First Sunflower Garden!

Can you believe that these beautiful flowers came up from seed? I'm amazed at how the stalks are able to support the weight of the large flowers. Did you know that the face of the sunflower follows the sun as it rises and sets each day? God's creation constantly reminds us of biblical truths.

The Word of God is like a seed planted deep within our hearts where the Lord causes it to grow. As we mature we learn that true nourishment comes from the Son - God's only Son. He causes His grace to shine upon us each and every day until The Day when He will take us home to be with Him forever.

The Preeminence of Christ - Colossians 1:15-23

15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by [6] him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.

21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation [7] under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.

2008-11-12T08:23:00.003-05:00

Today is the day after Veteran's Day, and I just heard Stephen Curtis Chapman's tribute to a wounded soldier named, Corpsman Thomas McBride. He is offering a free demo until November 15th. Click here to listen to how this meeting affected SCC so much that it caused him to pen this song. It was delivered to Mr. McBride as a personal thank you by President George W. Bush - and he didn't invite the media to join him. This is what I love most about our President...he lives his life from conviction not popularity.

We, as Americans, owe a huge debt of gratefulness to all of our veterans and active military. May this song reach out in a way to communicate our thanks in a way that we never can.

"God bless you, Thomas McBride!"

2008-11-10T13:56:00.003-05:00

Annual Corn Maze Adventure!

Maze Quest 2008

Click on the picture to access all photos.
We had perfect weather for a wonderful day together on the farm. My brother was the only one who made it through all four color-coded sections of the maza - but he cheated...he used his Magellan Explorer!

2008-11-08T15:28:00.000-05:00

Have I mentioned that my "daughter-in-love", Ashley, loves to bake and decorate cakes?

Last night we had an engagement party here for Brittany Jarvis (Ashley's younger sister) and Stephen Morgan who became engaged yesterday. Ashley made this whimsical cake for the occasion. Isn't it the cutest one you've ever seen? I wish you could have tasted it - just as good as it looks. We are so happy for Brittany and Stephen. May their life together be as sweet as the icing pictured here! An old James Taylor song comes to mind:

"How sweet it is to be loved by you!"

2008-11-06T14:24:00.004-05:00

God has chosen Senator Barack Obama to be the next President of the United States of America. It has been a long campaign, and I'm relieved that it is over and a decision has been made. This is the eighth presidential election in which I have been privileged to participate. Out of all of them, though, this one seems the most sobering to me. So much in our country is at stake and the decisions made now will effect the lives of my children and grandchildren and beyond should the Lord tarry. How I long to see God move in our country, so now is the time for us to pray. God hears our cries, and He never sleeps. What good news when we're tempted to despair.

I decided this year to take my ipod with me to the polls. Sovereign Grace has put out a wonderful new project titled, Psalms. You can find it on itunes or purchase it directly from Sovereign Grace Ministries. As I got out of my car I hit the play button and allowed the Holy Spirit to choose which songs would play while I was checking off my ballot. I had no idea how this would minister to me. It gave me a fresh perspective on Who and what really matters. You may be wondering which song played as I finished voting; It was one of my favorites titled, Glorious and Mighty. It's not yet available for my playlist, but I've pasted the words for you below. God is sovereign, and he has a plan for President-elect Obama. I will pray for this man and his family. Will you join me?

Majesty, You fashioned the heavens
Your decrees can never be changed
Over all the plans of the nations
Your judgments reign

Glorious and mighty
You're awesome in beauty
Joyful songs we raise
Glorious and mighty
You're awesome in beauty
Greatly to be praised

2008-11-04T07:47:00.002-05:00

ELECTION DAY HAS ARRIVED!

May this letter penned by John Newton in 1776 encourage your soul as history is being made today. God bless and keep you.

"The Lord reigns! Let the earth rejoice!" Psalm 97:1

1776.
My dear madam,
He who once bore our sins, and carried our sorrows--is seated upon a throne of glory, and exercises all power in heaven and on earth! Thrones, principalities, and powers, bow before Him! His providence pervades and manages the whole universe, and is as minutely attentive to every part--as if there were only a single object in His view! From the tallest archangel--to the smallest ant or fly--all depend on Him for their being, their preservation, and their powers. He directs the sparrows where to build their nests, and where to find their food. He over-rules the rise and fall of nations; and bends, with an invincible power, and unerring wisdom--all events to His sovereign will! So that while many intend other outcomes--their designs all concur and coincide in the accomplishment of His holy will.

Jesus restrains with an almighty hand--the still more formidable efforts of the powers of darkness. Satan with all his hosts cannot exert their malice a hair's-breadth beyond the limits of His permission!

This omnipotent Savior is the head and husband of His believing people. How happy are those whom it is His good pleasure to bless! How safe are those whom He has engaged to protect! How honored and privileged are those to whom He is pleased to manifest Himself, and whom He enables and warrants to claim Him as their Friend and eternal potion!

Having redeemed them by His own blood--He esteems them as His treasure, His jewels; and protects them as the pupil of His eye! They shall not lack any good thing. They need not fear. His unerring eye is upon them in every situation; His ear is always open to their prayers; and His everlasting arms are under them for their sure support! On earth He guides their steps, controls their enemies, and directs all His dispensations for their spiritual good. While in heaven He is pleading their cause, preparing a glorious home for them, and communicating down to them reviving foretastes of the glory which they shall shortly enter into!

We sinful worms were once blind to His beauty, and insensible to His love, and would have remained so to the last--had He not revealed His goodness and grace to us!

"Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns!" Revelation 19:6

2008-11-03T15:45:00.002-05:00

We are home, and we hit the ground running. I finally finished Randy Alcorn's big book on Heaven while we were away. The last part of the book was worth the two years it took me to get there! God is preparing us for the time we will spend with Him forever on the New Earth! So often I am consumed with the here and now that I forget about the there and then! Here's an excerpt that I hope will bless you:

Heaven should affect our activities and ambitions, our recreation and friendships, and the way we spend our money and time. If I believe I'll spend eternity in a world of unending beauty and adventure, will I be content to spend all my evenings staring at game shows, sitcoms, and ball games? Even if I keep my eyes off of impurities, how much time will I want to invest in what doesn't matter?

What will last forever? God's Word. People. Spending time in God's Word and investing in people will pay off in eternity and bring me joy and perspective now.

Following Christ is not a call to abstain from gratification but to delay gratification. It's finding our joy in Christ rather than seeking joy in the things of this world. Heaven -- our assurance of eternal gratification and fulfillment -- should be our North Star, reminding us where we are and which direction to go.

2008-10-29T19:27:00.000-04:00

Today we drove to Asheville and toured the Biltmore Estate. We have both been there (five years ago), but not when the fall colors were so vibrant. We had a wonderful time exploring the beautiful grounds. The weather was in the mid 50's - too cold to play golf (which was our first choice) so we took a road trip instead. The best part? Besides being with my best friend? Finding a Starbucks right outside the Estate!! The cappucino was magnifique!

2008-10-29T09:16:00.005-04:00

Last night Tom and I ate dinner at the Jarrett House in downtown Dillsboro. It's a hotel and restaurant that was established in 1884. I remember eating there when I was young with my family, and also when our children were little. They serve dinner family style - I had their chicken and dumplings, and Tom had the fried trout. Along with our entrees we were served, buttered mashed potatoes, pickled beets and onions, green beans, stewed apples, biscuits, and iced tea. Yum-O!

As I type this, Tom is frying up some bacon and I'm cooking some fresh stone mill grits that we bought in Cherokee yesterday. A great vacation is not only about the rest and relaxation, but also the food we eat. We have thoroughly enjoyed the great food North Carolina offers - did I mention the Stayman apples we bought? Hopefully there will be some when we get home. I'm wanting to make an apple pie!

Have I made you hungry? I know I am! Time to stir the grits...