Do You Know What You Believe?

That's the question I recently posed to the Monday night class.

So why is it important to know for yourself what you believe? Because chances are if you don't know, someone else will decide it for you (notice the someone is not capitalized).

Paul makes it very clear in 2 Corinthians 4:1-5 as to the danger signs that were prevalent then... and even more so today. In contrasting his ministry with those of the false teachers in Corinth, God uses Paul to describe them in more detail (He wants us to know what to watch for!):

• Secret and shameful (Paul kept nothing in "hiding" -- there was nothing to hide!)

• Deceptive (craftiness): the word means "shrewd" - "under the radar" and it gives the idea of one who would stoop to any level to get their message across.

• Distort (or adulterating) the Word: to distort means to deceive by mixing error with truth. First, they begin by sharing truth, and in doing so, they disarm the hearer. It's not until later that error, flesh, and their own desires enter into the mix. Those who are not discerning truth from error, will assume that because some truth was spoken, then everything must be truth. That's why we need to know what we believe!

We then went to 2 Peter 2:1-3:

"But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them -- bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with stories they have made up. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping."

The word "false" in this text is the same word we get the English word "plastic" from. Funny thing about plastic. You heat it up and you can do practically anything with it. One commentator pointed out that false teachers often get their crowd emotionally charged up - making it easier for them to say practically anything they want and have it received by most. They are master manipulators. That's why we need to know what we believe!

"For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake." - Paul

Someone in class shared how they pray every day for discernment because it is so necessary in this day and time.

I couldn't agree more.

We're So Proud!

Jim and Tammy Slice, along with Brian and I, are tremendously proud of our kids!!!

This past weekend, Sarah was FIRST RUNNER UP for Homecoming Queen at North Greenville University!!! The NGU Club Ultimate (Zach's frisbee team, whom Sarah represented!) WON homecoming and their float came in SECOND place!!!

In last night's study we talked about 2 Corinthians 4:7 -- unspeakable treasure within earthen vessels. With that still fresh on my mind, I can't help but share how thankful we all are that Zach and Sarah's "accomplishments" are simply icing on the cake. Their real treasure lies within, and we thank God for the work He is doing in their lives.

Congratulations Sarah & Zach!

(What a schweet ride!)

A Picture Says A 1000 Words

Yes indeed.

Both Brian and Megan shared great insights on the upcoming election.

Dittos!

A Trip Down Memory Lane

This morning I headed to Spartanburg to visit my great-aunt, Helen, my grandmother's sister.

Visiting Aunt Helen is always bittersweet in a sense. I obviously enjoy my time with her and I know she enjoys the company, and yet, every visit reminds me of how much I miss my sweet grandmother.

The childhood memories begin to trickle into my mind from the moment I pull into her driveway. The unmistakable scent of muscadines, the sound of laughter, and the sight of colorful impatiens that once encircled a gigantic oak at the end of the driveway all still linger in the air. The deck built many years ago now covers the old cement steps that led to the back door. The same steps where many a mud pie was created as a little girl. (Who says "onlys" have no fun?)

Perhaps today's visit was especially poignant as I missed hearing her sing "Happy Birthday" to me over the phone this past Tuesday. That's something she had done all my life. Sometimes I would let the recorder pick up so I could hear it more than once.

As much as I would have loved to have heard her voice once more, I find joy in knowing that she was singing on Tuesday -- not to me, but to her Lord, and that's the greatest gift I could have asked for.

Make Your List and Check it Twice

Real Simple magazine polled 882 readers on the amount they will spend on Christmas gifts for others:

4%: $0 to $99
25%: $100 to $399
34%: $400 to $699
19%: $700 to $999
18%: $1,000 or more

Christmas dollars represent big bucks -- God's bucks. So, is there anything on your list or mine that will leave an eternal impact or does it represent all "stuff"?

Believe me, I enjoy receiving gift cards just like the next person, but can we get real for a minute? Is there anything you truly need? Do you know of a person in your circle of family/friends who are truly in need? Do we even understand the concept of what it means to truly need? I don't. I've never had to go without a meal, a roof over my head, medical care, or warmth.

Don't get me wrong. I have nothing against gift giving! Seeing Brian and the kids open gifts they've wanted is a gift in itself for me - there's nothing wrong with enjoying gift giving or receiving, but is that all there is to your Christmas list and mine?

(Click images to enlarge)

For the past few years, we've used the Samaritan's Purse Gift Catalog (1-800-353-5957) to find gifts for part of our shopping list. If you've never browsed this catalog, I encourage you to do so before making your final Christmas list. Inside, you'll find a variety of life-changing gifts, some beginning at only $4.00! Not per month -- but a one time gift. And the best part? The Gospel of Jesus Christ is shared with every person who receives your gift.

This kind of gift may not be wrapped in colorful paper or tied with a bow, but it is wrapped in a promise:

"I tell you the truth,
whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me."
-Jesus

The Best $3.99 I Spend Each Month

I recently entered the vault -- the Lesson Vault that is, designed specifically for Bible teachers by Josh Hunt. The cost of admission? $3.99 per month (the cost of a grande vanilla latte with whip cream. Trust me, I know.)

When I stumbled upon this Web site several weeks ago, it came as no surprise that Josh Hunt was behind the idea. He has written two books, "Double Your Class In Two Years or Less" and "The Disciple-Making Teacher" that have fueled my flame for teaching over the years. In each of them, he shares practical suggestions for growing the class, both spiritually and numerically.

Specific things I appreciate most about the Lesson Vault:

• First and foremost, I appreciate Josh Hunt's desire to minister to the heart of teachers. Do you hear a faint "rah-rah-rah!" in the background? That's the sound of Josh cheering you on as you teach and minister to others.
  
• It provides extremely helpful questions for class time. They're broken down into three simple categories: Accountability, Open and Dig. Remember the recent quote I shared by John Milton Gregory? "The true function of the teacher is to create the most favorable conditions for self-learning... True teaching is not that which gives knowledge, but that which stimulates people to gain it. One might say that he teaches best who teaches least." Good questions lay the groundwork for favorable conditions.
  
• It is not static. Josh is continually updating and improving the information/site. His most recent improvement involves adding creative elements to each of the lessons because he understands the importance of visual aids. Studies show that most people have the potential for remembering only up to 10% of what they hear. If seeing or hearing is added, the potential climbs to 50%.
  
• The e-newsletter, which includes additional tips and ideas.
  

So, why blog about these resources? Maybe Dr. Howard Hendricks puts it best: When searching for good teachers, he always looks for FAT people -- those who are Faithful, Available, and Teachable. I desire a teachable spirit -- first through prayer, the Word and the Holy Spirit. Secondly, through other wise and discerning teachers. This type of learning can obviously be accomplished in many ways and I've found Josh Hunt's resources to be one of those ways for me.

Birthday, Part 2

Brian and I arrived home tonight to find a yellow gift bag by the back door. The little gifts inside were awesome (they know what I like!) but the card was priceless. Check it out.


OK. My day has been made.

Love you girls!!! Your card is going in my "card box" and I'll treasure it forever.

I'm A Year Older... Really?

Yep, today I'm another year older -- physically speaking. But does another year reflect more spiritual growth?

Isn't that the question we should really be asking ourselves? After all, our age - defined by years on a calendar - is not necessarily a reflection of our spiritual "age", our maturity in Christ.

"Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil." Hebrews 5: 13,14

So, what are some indicators as to how a person is growing in righteousness -- more like Christ, and less like me? I came across this blog that helped me to get started. I tweaked them a bit for my personal use:

1. A Growing Christian has a hunger for God in their heart and life. Brian and I celebrated our 18th wedding anniversary yesterday. The more I know him, the more I love him. And because I love him, I want to know what delights his heart. Same is true in a growing relationship with God. You want to know more about Him. His likes and dislikes. You literally hunger to know Him.

2. A Growing Christian has an increasing desire to know God's Word. You want to read God's Word, study God's Word and memorize God's Word. It is God-breathed - living and active! You look forward to your time with Him every day -- and you find yourself constantly amazed that He is even more interested in spending time with you. You'll read the Word as if it is a personal love letter to YOU... because it is. It is written with costly "ink"... the blood of Christ, which runs from Genesis through Revelation on your behalf.

3. A Growing Christian has a greater sensitivity to sin in their life. Sin bothers you because you hate anything that hurts your God. Like the Corinth church, you're willing to do whatever necessary to correct the problem (2 Corinthians 7:10-14).

4. A Growing Christian has a decreasing desire for the world's system. You want to be different from the world, not conformed to the world (Romans 12:1-2).

5. A Growing Christian's sphere of love is continually increasing. You find it easier and easier to love those different than yourself. It doesn't matter what their skin color, belief system or likes and dislikes. You find it easier to love more and more people, knowing that it is through this unconditional love that others see Christ in you.

6. A Growing Christian finds it easier and easier to forgive others. You realize you've been forgiven, and you didn't deserve it, so you're willing to forgive others too. No more petty score cards of who hurt you. Grow up!

7. A Growing Christian has a concern for the spiritual condition of others. "It's not about me" is your mantra -- you are concerned for others. You pray for sensitivity to other's needs -- physically, emotionally, and especially spiritually. You are careful not to be a stumbling block to other's spiritual growth. You pray for salvation -- confident in the fact that your God IS mighty to save!

8. A Growing Christian wants to be constantly growing. As our boys were growing up, Brian would mark their height on a board next to their bedroom door. They were always excited to see how much they had grown since the last time they were measured. Wouldn't it be nice if we had that kind of excitement about the growth of our spiritual lives? By the way, when we moved, we took the board with us. They weren't the only ones excited. :)

"It is written: 'I believed, therefore I have spoken.' With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak, because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in his presence. All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day." 2 Corinthians 4:13-16

I think I'll have them put this on my cake next year!

Where Has The Time Gone?

It seems just like yesterday when our families drove up to Pretty Place (near Caesars Head) on a breezy, but clear and chilly afternoon -- eighteen years ago today.

It was there that I married the love of my life, Brian.

Where I, or the boys, would be today without him, I can't imagine. He has showered me with unconditional love in ways I never deserved and he has loved Brandon and Zach as his own since day one. Brian has always been, and always will be, a vivid reminder of God's great love, grace and mercy.

I hope you enjoy the mini-flashback....

I believe it was at this moment in the ceremony when we were listening to a song being played by the harpist which lasted approximately two minutes, but felt like forever. Brian, however, helped to pass the time in his own special way. He couldn't figure out if that was the time he was supposed to kiss me or not, so after about a minute of the song, he began to lean forward -- at which time I had to gently swat him away! ha... We've enjoyed recalling this moment many times since.

Check out the spectacular view behind us! No ferns required.

Notice the two cuties down front?
It's pretty amazing, considering Brandon was married last year
and Zach is in his senior year at North Greenville.
Time truly does fly.

"He has made everything beautiful in its time." Ecclesiastes 3:11

Check out another special anniversary happening today!

We're Back!

What a trip! Never having stayed at the Boykin Cottage, we weren't sure what to expect - but our expectations were exceeded.

The cottage is nestled in acres of woodlands, but not too far from Saluda's quaint downtown. The original cottage is very old, but since purchasing the surrounding land, the owners added a bedroom and sunroom, updated the kitchen, and now rent it for weekend getaways.

These pictures do not do the cottage, nor the surroundings, justice -- but here goes!

The screened porch on the front of the cottage was very nice. I awakened early Friday morning to the pitter-patter of rain on the tin roof, so I jumped out of bed, perked my coffee,
bundled up and rocked on the porch for over an hour.
No book necessary.

"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10

Here's the kitchen - nice, clean and updated.
It was also immune to cooking this weekend.
Now that's my kind of kitchen. :)

Here's the den - comfy, clean and great magazines. It also has a working fireplace but we didn't use it this time. It was chilly on Saturday, but not enough for a fire. The windows behind the couch still have the old wavy glass. Love it!

This picture doesn't do the sunny exposure justice.
Outside the windows were cedars, oaks and other beautiful trees. Just like a treehouse!

And now to true beauty...
God's handiwork at its best in the Carolina mountains.
(Click picture to enlarge)

The road leading to the cottage. The road less traveled.
That's what I like.

The view just outside the cottage.

It's the little things that matter.
These red impatiens and nandina's lined the screened porch.
A simple but colorful greeting.

Another view just steps away from the cottage.
The owners have made several small trails throughout the property.

Look closely and you'll see a hammock surrounded by
fallen leaves and beautiful trees.
It was one of my favorite places to be this weekend.

Here's why. Check out the view (below) while lying in the hammock:

Looking straight up! (Click picture to enlarge)

And last, but not least, another piece of God's handiwork... Rupert.

Some hearts skip a beat at the sound of a roaring ocean. Not mine. This heart is drawn to, comforted, and soothed by the beautiful NC mountains.

But it's always nice to return home.

We're Outta Here!

Brian and I will be heading out soon for our annual Anniversary/Birthday weekend in NC, with Rupert of course! ha... Thankfully, he's a good traveler. Much better than me. :)

Today I called my favorite bakery - McFarlen Bakery (located in the beautiful downtown area of Hendersonville, NC) to place an order -- for my birthday cake! I've ordered my own cake for years - not because Brian wouldn't - but because I... well, like it a certain way: WHITE cake (not cream, light yellow or butter yellow -- white!), thick white buttercream icing (no whipped junk!) and lots of piped flowers and leaves in Fall colors! Gee, I feel so transparent.

So, the real fun always begins when I place the order. Like today. After giving her all the specs, she asked if I'd like any writing on it. After a little hesitation (and I do mean little) I asked her to write "Happy Birthday Cathy" on the cake. Then came the dreaded question. And, what is your name? Umm.... Cathy. Once she finished giggling, the order was finally completed. I'll take a picture of it and post it on a future blog.

I think the only internet access we'll find is at Black Bear Coffee Company, also located in downtown Hendersonville, and one of my favorite places to be. Hopefully we'll be able to catch up on emails and perhaps post a quick blog before we return.

I have lots more packing to do -- can't decide which books/magazines to take, or maybe I should say, which ones not to take. Brian and I are looking forward to rocking on the screened porch and seeing nothing but beautifully painted leaves by our Creator. The fresh cool air will be much like a welcome mat to this old soul.

NC, here we come!

Hide and Seek... Baker Style!

At the cookout on Sunday, I let it slip that some women (whom shall go unnamed) have been known to occasionally tuck things in the closet for awhile so that when the husbands ask when we (I mean they) bought it, they could say "This old thing? I've had it my closet for awhile". It was at this point in the conversation that Brian asked, "Is that what happened with the chair I found in our laundry room?"

Really? The one time he ventures into the laundry room and he discovers my hide-a-way?

Rewind. A week or so ago I posted a blog about my little neighbor cleaning out her garage and how she had all kind of neat old things. Well, I spotted an old solid wooden office chair and fell in love immediately! Who cares if it was missing one of the casters? Apparently Brian did. He shook his head like I had lost mine and walked away saying he didn't think we should bother with it. So, being the submissive wife that I am, I waited until he went to work and then fetched my "new" chair! Dragging that baby through the grass on three casters was not a pretty sight.

Because I wasn't quite sure how to break the news to Brian, the chair was stored away in the laundry room. That was the one place I knew he would never find it. How could a person find a room they didn't even know existed? :) The Lord has a strange sense of humor.

As it turns out, Brian shared with the group that he DID like it after all and that he was now willing to fix it for me! I guess he was waiting to see how much longer I was willing to crawl over the chair to get to the washing machine before sharing that little tidbit of information.

We laughed so much (and so loudly!) that people in other parts of the house stuck their heads in the door wanting in on the story. Because some of you requested a picture of the infamous chair, here goes!


Although it didn't cost me anything, the laughter this little chair produced Sunday night was priceless.

What A Day!

Where to begin?

This morning's class covered 1 Samuel 16:1-13. When Sherri read verse 1, I felt a flood of emotions rising up within me.

"The LORD said to Samuel, "How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king." verse 1

We had already decided to make our membership at 1st Baptist official this morning, but these words wrapped around me like a divine hug from my Father, confirming what we already knew to be true.

Sherri followed this verse by asking if anyone has ever allowed disappointment to keep them from moving forward, pointing out that God intends for us to move forward in joy.

Then there was the first song in today's set-list, "Whatever You're Doing", by Sanctus Real. Check out the lyrics.

It's time for healing time to move on
It's time to fix what's been broken too long
Time to make right what has been wrong
It's time to find my way to where I belong
There's a wave that's crashing over me
All I can do is surrender

(Chorus)
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos somehow there's peace
It's hard to surrender to what I can't see
but I'm giving in to something heavenly

Time for a milestone
Time to begin again
Reevaluate who I really am
Am I doing everything
to follow your will
or just climbing aimlessly over these hills
So show me what it is you want from me
I give everything I surrender... To...

(Chorus)

Time to face up Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out
That I've wanted to say for so many years
Time to release all my held back tears

Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but I believe
You're up to something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly

Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but now I can see
This is something bigger than me
Larger than life
something heavenly
Something heavenly

It's time to face up
Clean this old house
Time breathe in and let everything out

Joy and gratefulness flooded my heart (and eyes) as I sang this song, confident in the fact that the Lord truly was up to something bigger than me.

I didn't think the day could get any better -- that is, until we attended a cookout with lots of friends I hadn't seen in awhile. Rooms were filled with laughter and the fellowship was sweet. I believe I caught a glimpse of heaven tonight.

It Was a Good Day. A Very Good Day.

This morning, Brian and I headed over to Zach's Ultimate tourney being played at Furman. While it's always a blast watching him use his mad skills in the game, I especially enjoy watching him lead the team. He's their biggest cheerleader (sans pom-poms -- another thing I'm thankful for!) It was also fun catching up with Sarah. (She was in DC on Fall Break last weekend.) Check out a couple of photos and brief videos if you like!

The day was off to a great start.

This afternoon, Brian laid out the remaining pavers for the garden paths (what a guy!) while I prepared some for Monday night, with the caffeine assistance of a Java Chip Frap.

A few minutes ago, I returned from a prayer time that occurs every Saturday afternoon at 5:00 at Simpsonville First. It's a time set aside for anyone to come and pray for the Sunday services as well as other needs. It was one of the most humble and sincere prayer times I've ever been a part of. Prayers for the Holy Spirit to reign and move in His church -- for the lost to be drawn to Christ -- for every teacher on Sunday to be filled with God's Spirit and speak forth truth boldly -- all these requests and more were uttered by people around the auditorium. I went there knowing no one, but returned as someone who is very thankful to be joining this church tomorrow.

As I close this post, I also notice the GA Dogs are winning with only seconds left -- and the Gamecocks won today as well! And did I mention there's a race tonight in Charlotte? Oh my. It's a great day for the whole family. Thank You Lord!

Somebody Turned 5 Today!

Happy Birthday Rupert!

Constructive Criticism Paid Off

Literally.

Last Monday, after class, Karen (my personal for-my-good-wardrobe-critiquer) and Carolyn (her assistant) quietly pointed out that my new jeans, shall we say, didn't fit quite right. I believe the lead-in question went something like, "Cathy, have you lost weight?", which in my book is equivalent to a Southern "bless her heart."

So, I gathered the receipt, tags, and original bag and headed back to the store. I had purchased them on sale for $33.00 a week ago. After trying on numerous pairs, I finally narrowed it down to two favorites, each on sale for $26.99. I thought I'd let Brian decide which he liked best and return the other one. At the register, they discovered that neither pair was "in the system" so a manager called the floor manager. She turned and asked me if $7.00 a pair would be okay (any item not "in the system" is considered on clearance). I challenged her on the price because they were nowhere near a clearance rack, but she insisted on sticking with the $7.00 price.

Needless to say, I'll be keeping both pairs of jeans, and thanks to my two awesome friends, I'll have a little extra moolah to buy a tri-fold mirror.

It's A Plan!

After years of poring over gardening and landscaping books and magazines, and numerous sketches, we finally have a plan! (Click to enlarge)

Brian has a way of making all my dreams come true, and this drawing is no exception. He took our house plat, along with a rough sketch, and began working his magic. Everything, other than the house and buildings, is Brian's artwork. To see our ideas in color is simply thrilling!!!

The white curved area, located behind the soon-to-come 8' pergola (shown on the drawing), is now filled with Tea Olives, Beautyberry bushes, a crepe myrtle, and hydrangeas. Once the pergola is built, the three-tiered fountain will be moved close by. Is there anything more relaxing than the sound of trickling water? (Of course, the churning sound made by the Dunkin Donut Coolata machine comes in a close second. Have mercy!) At the time of the drawing, Brian was unsure of the plant colors, hence the white space.

Although it's not a large gardening area, I'm trying to make the most of it by planting my favorite fragrant heirloom plants, shrubs and trees, while incorporating winding paths which will be "hidden" from certain views in the garden. Within 5-8 years, the plants should grow large enough to form the different garden rooms and I look forward to enjoying these "rooms" with my grandchildren one day.

Here's a picture of the latest addition to the garden, Echinacia Purpurea Coconut Lime, thanks to a gift certificate to White Flower Farms.


We'll do as much as we can through November and then enjoy a winter break, which to me, means dreaming/planning the front and side yards!

Sunday Snippets

• It was a blessing to see the hubster playing in the praise band this morning at 1st Baptist. Actually, that's an understatement. Today's set-list:

Not To Us - Chris Tomlin

Lead Me To The Cross - Hillsongs

Captivate Us - Watermark

Give You Glory - Jeremy Camp

• Friends we'd attended CRCC with joined Simpsonville First Baptist this morning. It was a bit surreal seeing and hearing their names as they joined another church. I'm really happy for them and I look forward to seeing them on a regular basis as we also plan to join very soon. I don't mind sharing that, while most of me will be rejoicing on that day, there will also be a place within me that will grieve for a moment when I hear our names being spoken before another church. Grieving over what could have been. What should have been, in our opinion. Not just for us, but for so many other faithful families who, over the years, poured their time, energy, and very heart into partnering with the Lord in helping grow CRCC. Their names will also be spoken or recorded in other churches throughout our community one day soon. It's not what Brian and I, along with many of those who have left, ever wanted or sought after. We wanted to continue giving to and faithfully serving in the church we had initially signed on for, but we feel that church no longer exists. A part of me will always be at CRCC. I love that church, the leaders and people, and I pray God's best for them. I am confident God will use the dispersed crowd for His glory -- I believe He already is doing so. The day we join forces with 1st Baptist will begin a new chapter in this book called "life" and I'm looking forward to it!
  

• We enjoyed dinner with Zach tonight. It's great having him home for Fall break. It's great having him home any time. Everything is so different with the kids away (we miss you Brandon and Megan!) But again, it seems God accomplishes much through the "different" situations in life. We're proud of all our kids -- Brandon, Megan, Zach and Sarah. There are moments when I tear up at the thought of the type of kids I should have had, based on my past sins and mistakes. I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for God's mercy and grace. We're talking about the Old and New Covenant in class tomorrow night. Preparing for that lesson gave me a fresh reminder of our many blessings on this side of the cross. Thank You Jesus!
  

• I ran into an old friend at Bi-lo tonight who recently came out of a difficult church situation. Since that time, he has refused to get involved in any small group setting because the thought of growing close to another group of people who could potentially hurt him and his family was too much to bear. Interestingly enough, we had just finished speaking on how the enemy disguises himself as light (2 Corinthians 11:14) - he sounds like light/truth, he looks like light/truth, he even "feels" like light/truth, when in fact, after all is said and done, he leaves behind only destruction and confusion. To say that the enemy has honed his disunity skills is an understatement. I shared with my friend and his sweet wife that we cannot allow the enemy to deceive us through the guise of discouragement. By staying out of class, my friend has unknowingly allowed the enemy to keep he and his wife from a deeper study in God's Word, prayer, and the ability to sharpen iron with other believers. To allow past disappointments to rule today's relationship with Christ is to crack the door open for the enemy's foothold. And we all know he never stops there. We all parted ways encouraged and I hope to see them in Sunday School next week!

So much for "snippets!"

Catching Up

This Sunday, my hubster is going to play bass in the praise band at 1st Baptist. He's missed playing over the years, and I have to tell you -- I can't wait to see him using his God-given talents again! He went to practice last night and it was exciting to hear him share about the different people and their heart for ministry. He loves the songs they're playing and I think I'm humming them in my sleep (he plays them over and over for practice!)

On a different note (no pun intended)... my sweet neighbor, Mrs. Barnette, shared a few treasures with me from her garage today. She has stored things in there for years so it was interesting to see what emerged from the darkness. The main find was a small round table with two chairs that were originally used in the old Simpsonville Drug Store located in downtown Simpsonville many, many years ago. I was psyched (and still am!) She also gave me an enamel bucket and a few old jars.

Life is good.

Man's Best Prop

Brian has started reading some each night before bedtime. Of course, who wouldn't with such a warm (and dare I say adorable?) book prop.


Rupert will do practically anything to stay close to Brian. He's definitely a "daddy's" dog. Have mercy.


Interestingly enough, the Lord has taught me many spiritual truths through 'ol Rup. I'll have to share them one day soon, but not tonight. It's been a crazy two weeks. Second Corinthians has been a great study -- very timely -- but I agree with the commentators who feel this is one of Paul's more difficult books to teach. It's been a challenge, but I'm up for it, thanks to the Comforter and another one by the name of Teresa. :) Love you friend!