NEW BEGINNINGS

Today is the last day of 2007. Not one person I have spoken with has said that the end of the year has slowly crept up on them. I felt, as everyone did, that I had just put Christmas 2006 to rest when it was time to decorate the house for 2007. I hardly remember the month of December and now there are just a few hours left in the year. We all remember the excitement, anticipation and anxiety we felt December 31, 1999, yet in only two years a new decade will begin. Our life is truly “like a vapor.”

For most people, January 1 or 2, if you watch the bowl games, offers a new beginning. Most people resolve to start a new diet, exercise regularly, pray and read the Bible faithfully, stop this habit or start a new lifestyle. We have a whole year of choices lying ahead. There is nothing we can do to fix the choices we made over the previous 12 months and nothing good comes from living a life of regret. What matters now are the choices you will make today. You can choose to drown in bitterness or forgive and overcome the hurts you have suffered. You can choose to be consumed by anger or live in the Joy of the Lord. You can choose to live a selfish life or one of compassion. You can choose to follow your own path or the one God has prepared for you since the day you were born. You are standing on the threshold of a wonderful, fulfilled life, but you must step over the threshold to experience God’s blessing. How sad to arrive at December 31, 2008, the beginning of a new decade, or the end of your life still standing on the threshold.

Revelation 3:8 says, “Behold I have set before you an open door and no man can shut it.”

January 1, 2008 …. A new beginning …. An open door …. Don’t get stuck at the threshold.

THOU PREPAREST A TABLE

I have always loved the “finer things in life.” Perhaps it was because my chief entertainment as a child was reading. Like most little girls, I would imagine myself living the life of a princess in a palace surrounded by all the luxurious furnishings described in the stories. Christmas was the time of year I could come as close to a Fairy Tale as our simple life afforded. There are pictures of me at Christmas proudly displaying a fruit salad with the cherries placed perfectly on the top. I would set the table with our finest melamine plates (later graduated to Corning dishes), fold the paper napkins just right, with a fork and a knife (it was Christmas) at each setting. Even as a little girl, I yearned for fine china, crystal, and linen napkins. They were not only unaffordable but not very practical for a family with 6 active children.

I was privileged to marry a wonderful man and give birth to 2 babies that were “ALL BOY.” Again, no one wanted to eat pizza off china serving platters and Mountain Dew was just as good out of the bottle; who needs crystal goblets. At Christmas, my men were subjected to the finest table I could afford. Instead of hastily torn paper towels, they had to at the least, use “paper” napkins. I will never forget Phil’s eyes as he sipped Mountain Dew out of fragile crystal.

This year, once again, I satisfied the princess hidden deep inside by setting a beautiful table. We dined off of snow white plates atop gold chargers, cranberry cloth napkins and crystal goblets. Prime rib may taste just as good off chinet and it may make more sense to wipe greasy fingers on paper towels but nothing replaces the warm feeling of well being as we gather around an elegant table.As I looked at the pictures I had taken of my handiwork, I was reminded of Psalms 23.
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

God has prepared a table for me every day of my life. The blessings He has bestowed upon me are so far above paper plates or even melamine plates, stainless forks and Tupperware cups. I have eaten off china plates, used the finest utensils of pure gold and sipped from delicate crystal. I have the promise of Goodness and Mercy all of my life and a life with Him forever. Truly, My Cup Runneth Over.

MEMORIES OF CHRISTMAS PAST

For the first time in 30 years, Steve and I will spend Christmas Eve alone. The pajamas will remain wrapped under the tree, the games will stay on the shelf, the guest room will be vacant, and there will be no eager faces on Christmas morning or anyone to wear the Santa hat. Am I little sad? The passing of one of life’s seasons and the unfamiliar territory of the next brings sadness, some nostalgia but also hope as a new tradition begins. I remind myself there is a reason my kids are so excited about starting their own family traditions; they can’t wait to pass on the feeling of wonder they experienced as children at Christmas.

My antidote for sadness, the blues, depression, melancholy, whatever it’s called, is to go back to the beginning and remember that I have been blessed more than anyone I know. 50 years ago I had the privilege of being born into a family to whom Christmas was the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” My mom had the gift of making every holiday special. We celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, Fourth of July, 1st day of school, Halloween, Thanksgiving, New Years’ Day, but no day contained the joy, excitement, anticipation and festive spirit like Christmas.

It would begin in mid-December with the Christmas tree. Sometimes Dad would bring one home; a few times we bundled up and trudged through the woods to cut down the perfect tree. One year an old-fashioned Christmas light scorched a pair of pajamas through the wrapped package, that was the end of real trees; we moved to an artificial tree which didn’t dampen the experience one bit. There were no expensive Radko ornaments that little fingers could damage. There were no “theme” trees with white lights and red and gold ornaments, no designer ribbons or garlands. This tree was lovingly decorated with bright multi-colored lights, a few store-bought ornaments, homemade paper chains and whatever ornament each child had made in art class at school. I hated art; I am actually artistically-challenged; I don’t even know why I brought the misshapen Christmas Star home. Mom must have thought it was the most beautiful star in the world because for at least 30 years it hung in a prominent position on the tree. Mom still probably brings it out at Christmas and tells all the neighbors that Sissy made this one.

Oh, the wonderful smells that came from the kitchen for days. There were cookies, pies, Jam Cake, fudge, and hand dipped candies. Mom always sent boxes of goodies to the neighbors, teachers, doctor or anyone else who may be in need of Christmas cheer. A steady stream of relatives dropped in for a cup of coffee, piece of pie and lively conversation. Packages began to appear under the tree and the excitement continued to grow.

Christmas Eve dawned. We would beg to open “just one” present. We knew what that one present would be, but we just couldn’t wait. Finally, mom would let us open a game just to shut us up. That kept us satisfied until evening. In the evening, the real games began, Dominos with Dad, Monopoly for hours, sometimes days, with Mike, and Candy land with the little kids. One more gift was waiting to be opened; pajamas. We all received new pajamas for the pictures on Christmas morning. Sitting around in our new pajamas, Dad would read the Christmas Story. Every year, he would pause when he came to the passage about Mary and Joseph and the Babe lying in the manger and ask why were Mary and Joseph in the manger? As a teenager, I failed to see the humor and thought it was lame. Tonight, I would trade everything under the tree to hear Dad read the story one more time. Finally, it was time for bed. We always sat out a piece of Pecan Pie and a coffee cup for Santa. Santa was sick of all the cookies and milk other kids left for him. At our house he was treated special. Amazingly, Santa’s favorites were the same as Dad’s.

Christmas morning arrived. For me it was usually about 4 a.m. I would wake Mike and we would sit and talk louder and louder to wake up the rest of the family. No one was allowed in the living room until everyone was ready. Bathroom doors would be closed harder, lights flipped on and off, coughing, giggling, anything to get Mom and Dad’s attention. Finally they would begin to stir, never later than 7:00. Mom would get the camera, Dad would give his HO HO HO and we would march down the long hallway to the tree. I realize now how hard Dad and Mom worked to make Christmas special for each of the 6 children. There was always a pile of gifts for each kid, not only things we needed, but something special we had longed for all year. One year I wanted a fur hat with fur balls at the end of the strings; there it was hanging on the tree with the other ornaments. In ninth grade I begged for a long woven cloth purse with fringe hanging from the bottom (it was the early 70’s); again, it was hanging in a special place on the tree Christmas morning.

The first few years of our marriage, Steve and I spent the night at Dad and Mom’s and continued the Hawks family traditions. As our kids came along and we moved to Michigan, we began the Niswonger family traditions, incorporating the old and the new. As I bid goodbye to what has been for 30 years, I eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for the next 30 years.
HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS.

IT STARTED WITH A CABBAGE PATCH DOLL OR WAS IT A BABY IN A MANGER?

The year was 1983, a chubby cheeked baby doll complete with yarn hair and a birth certificate was introduced to the world. It quickly became the top wish on every little girls Christmas list. Mothers and Fathers would rise up early and stand in long lines for the chance to bring home one of these highly coveted dolls. It became an item on the nightly news; reports of mother’s fighting over the last one on the shelf; newspaper ads offering the more affluent shoppers an opportunity to buy their own Cabbage Patch for a mere $500 to $1,000.

1995 brought Tickle Me Elmo. In the 21st century our wishes have moved into the electronic age. Our wish lists include HD flat screen televisions, I-Phones and something called Wii. Fox News reported that in one town more than a hundred people lined up to have the opportunity to purchase 1 of 18 Wii game consoles. A security guard selected the lucky shoppers to enter the store. The losers stomped off angry that their Christmas dreams were shattered.

Thankfully, these greedy, self-serving tales of Christmas are not reflective of the entire population. There have also been many reports of individuals and groups who have been able to capture the true Spirit of Christmas; the blessing we receive in giving. A church gives each congregant $50 to invest in something or someone; a bank bestows a $1,000 Christmas bonus on each employee with the stipulation that it must be used for a good cause, it cannot be given to a co-worker or family member and the employee is also given a video camera to document what they choose to do with the bonus. The most exciting report started with 1 person at a Starbucks drive thru window. That person paid for his coffee and the next person’s order, the next person paid for the one behind him and it continued throughout the day. This event has now continued for a week popping up in different cities across the U.S. The Wii brings a smile only to the lucky recipient and a frown to those unlucky empty handed shoppers, but giving to others brings a smile to the face of the recipient and a lasting sense of fulfillment to the giver.

It didn’t really start with a Cabbage Patch Doll, a Rubik’s Cube, I-Phone or any other “can’t live without” gadget that will be replaced with the “latest and greatest” in 6 months. The Spirit of Giving started over 2000 years ago with a Baby in a Manger. Isaiah said “For unto us a Son is born, and unto us a Child is given. John said “For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son. The beautiful thing about God’s gift is that it isn’t available to just those with enough money, or those lucky enough to be first in line but as John 3:16 continues, “ That Whosever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. God’s gift is available for whoever will receive it today.

IT'S NOT SO DIFFERENT

Once again it is the Christmas Season; once again the “Merry Christmas” controversy rears its ugly head. We are greeted with Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas, town square no longer features the nativity scene, school children sing winter carols and a political ad becomes a news item because of its blatantly Christian message. Today we push Him aside when we forget to celebrate Him in our festivities.

In 1977 Joan Ewing wrote a song, with the words, “It’ll Be Different. “

The first time You cameTo a stable long ago
They pushed You aside
For they really didn't know
Who had come to their world
To save and to heal
So they followed You
And Your cross to the top of the hill

But it'll be diff'rent
The next time You come
Wait and see
You got a lot of lonely children
And one of them is me
You know we want to see You
We're never really at home
So if You're waiting to be invited
Lord Jesus please come

It is a beautiful song, but I wonder if society will be so different when Jesus comes the second time. The world seems at times to be a mirror-image of a world 2000 years ago. The Jews were looking for the long awaited Messiah, but couldn’t accept that the Messiah would come in a way that was outside their little box. Today our box consists of believing that the God we’ve created would never allow evil and suffering or require anything that differs from our selfish desires. Authors are writing books with titles like “God is Not Great” or “The God Delusion.” The great delusion is not the ignorant belief in God, Mr. Dawkins; it is the delusion that causes mankind to believe that we are okay on our own with no need of a Savior.

For some of us, thankfully, it will be different. Hebrews 9:28 says He will appear the second time to them that look for Him. Whether we say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays, Jesus is going to return. We can ignore the nativity and celebrate with trees, lights, and Santa, you may skip Christmas altogether and go straight for Kwanza, but it will not stop His return. Jesus will RETURN the second time, but He will APPEAR only to those who are looking for Him. Jesus, the world isn’t so different from your birth, but this time you have a small welcoming party just waiting for the angel to herald your coming.

OBSERVATIONS AT THE MALL

Friday afternoon, I volunteered to be in charge of the donation table at the local mall for the Saginaw Rescue Mission. The mall was bustling with shoppers but very few people wanted to take the time to give a donation. To pass the time, I began to observe what kind of people come to the mall. The table was set up across from a Tattoo, Piercing, and Body Jewelry Store; this presented a great opportunity to view a variety of characters.
Here are some of my observations:

WHAT KIND OF PEOPLE COME TO THE MALL?
There were mall-walkers with measured strides, children in strollers or wagons and lead around with harnesses. A woman in a wheelchair, a man with a cane and a senior citizen tooling around on an Amigo. Mothers & sons, fathers & daughters, sisters, grandparents with grandchildren, mommies and mommies-to-be; cell phone talkers, security personnel, lonely people, friends in groups chatting excitedly, or sharing a joke. Couples who have spent years together holding hands and couples newly discovering each other, arm in arm. Couples together yet far apart... Caucasian, black, Asian, Hispanic, Indian, Mid-Eastern. Bearded and clean-shaven men; bald men, men with ponytails, short hair, long hair, spiked hair, braided dreds, newly coifed, straight and curly. Hair colored black, brown, red, pink, orange, gray, white, streaked, and two-toned. All joining in the hunt for the world’s greatest bargain.

WHAT DO PEOPLE WEAR TO THE MALL?
Some dress for this all important occasion, others prefer “come as you are” not realizing the personality secrets they are revealing to anyone who will take the time to observe them. I merely observed, you can make the conclusions. There were men and women in dress suits, sweat suits, Army fatigues, torn jeans, camouflage shirts and pants, miniskirts, clothes too small, clothes too big, fur coats, and men in shorts oblivious of 30 degree weather. Many wore Christmas sweaters announcing the season. Team apparel trumpeted team loyalty; Tigers, Lions, Red Wings, San Francisco 49ers jacket, Army, GMI, Grand Valley State, University of Virginia and Syracuse University sweatshirts, University of MI and MI State jackets, but NO OHIO STATE. Their feet were shod with high heels, tennis shoes, fashion boots, snow boots, and work boots, pointed, square and rounded toes. Heads were topped with knit caps, baseball caps on sideways and backwards, fur-lined hoods, earmuffs, felt hats, fishing hats, hunting caps, bandannas and kerchiefs, elf hats, tan hat with feathers, wigs and pink hats on cancer survivors.

HOW DO PEOPLE ACT AT THE MALL?
Some walked fast, as if on a mission; others strolled leisurely peeking into store windows, enjoying the decorations, balls of red, gold, and green, hands in pockets or arms swinging free. People loaded down with shopping bags; bags from stores I’ve never seen. A lady carrying shopping bags layered 3 deep on each shoulder and 2 of various sizes in each hand. Others clutched just one precious package; the one they had searched for diligently, containing the promise of so many dreams. Shoppers ignoring kiosk vendors offering hand cream samples and novelty toys. Excited and exhausted faces, frowning and smiling, afraid to make eye contact; not wanting to be greeted, but unable to resist a friendly smile. Hugging old friends, making new friends; drinking coffee and soft drinks, eating cookies, pretzels, frozen yogurt and other mall culinary delights. Teens with I-Pods singing and dancing, moms checking lists, dads checking wallets. Frustrated parents with screaming children afraid of the bearded man in the red suit. I wonder, how does a man who sits in a mall all day provide toys for anyone?

To a casual passerby it was a typical Friday at the mall but to the more observant soul the faces shown with the wonder of a first Christmas, memories of Christmas past or the boredom of “just another Christmas.” Pausing just a moment, I heard the joyful sound of Christmas music mingled with the dull, distant roar of voices, the click of heels, squeak of canvas shoes, and the plodding of winter boots, babies screams and heartfelt laughter. There were hundreds of strangers brought together by perfect timing with little in common but a need for love, a smile, a hug, a good bargain and most importantly a Savior. Let us not forget the Reason for the Season.

JOY TO THE WORLD

When was the last time you had a feeling of pure, unrestrained joy? Has it been too long? Can you even remember? The dictionary defines joy as an emotion of great delight or happiness, elation caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; rapture or bliss. We get so caught up in our everyday life that we forget to take time to experience joy. After a while, we forget what joy feels like or where we can find it.

My granddaughters reminded me of what it feels like to experience the joy of discovering something exciting for the first time. Laughing at nothing just because you want to hear yourself laugh; finding a hidden ornament on a tree; eating a bowl of ice cream together just before bedtime; wrapping your arms around someone so you can share a little joy with them.

In the book of Psalms, David tells us that there is fullness of joy in the presence of the Lord. David also experienced times when life became overwhelming, but he never forgot the source of all joy. He asked God to restore unto him the joy of salvation. David reminded himself during discouraging times that weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning.

During this wonderful time of year, don’t let the shopping, parties, programs, family expectations take the place of experiencing real joy in the Reason for the Season. Take a few minutes to smell the baking cookies, light a scented holiday candle, taste a chocolate-covered cherry, enjoy the decorations, share a smile with someone you love, or throw your head back and sing this song at the top of your lungs.

Joy to the world! the Lord is come;

Let earth receive her King;

Let every heart prepare him room,

And heaven and nature sing,

And heaven and nature sing,

And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing

NO FEAR

Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, just to take Him at His Word.
Just to rest upon His promise, just to know thus saith the Lord.
Jesus, Jesus how I trust Him, how I’ve proved him o’er and o’er

With all of the events that have transpired over the last week, it is easy to let fear become an overriding force in your life. Thursday, a young man “snapped,” walked into a mall in Omaha and killed 8 people, then committed suicide. Thursday, in New York, a group of young women attacked a man for stepping on a foot. Early Sunday morning a man killed two young people at a mission training center in Arvada, Colorado. Sunday afternoon, a man killed two people in a church parking lot in Colorado Springs and was subsequently killed by a security guard. A woman was found trying to get into Disney Land with a loaded gun. Except for the incidence in New York, all of these events happened in “safe” Middle America in “safe” places.

This afternoon, I volunteered to sit at the mall and collect money for the Rescue Mission. I had to fight a spirit of fear like everyone else. Yes, I am a Child of God. Yes, I know my life is in God’s Hand. Still, I don’t want to die today. This morning I conducted chapel at the Rescue Mission. My subject? You guessed it; Fear.

There were a myriad of different fears discussed. Fear of flying, fear of car accidents, panic attacks, fear of getting shot, fear of dying in general. Luke 21:25 says there will be a time when men’s hearts will fail them for fear; but instead of losing hope, we should look up for our Redemption draweth nigh. I am so thankful God’s Word addresses every situation in our lives and we can rest in His promises. This is what the Bible has to say about fear:

Psalms 23:4
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me

Psalms 27:1
The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalms 56:4
In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me

Psalms 118:6
The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?

Matthew 10:31
Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Luke 12:7
But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

II Timothy 1:7

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind

I John 4:18
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

Tonight I place my life and my trust in you as I rest in your perfect love.

IT'S NOT MY FAULT

PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT WITH YOUR FAVORITE EXCUSE OF ALL TIME.

I’m fat, it’s McDonald’s fault. I made bad grades; it’s the teacher’s fault. I’m late for work; I’m not a morning person. I’m in debt; it’s the credit card company’s fault. I’m mad; it’s my husband’s fault. IT’S NOT MY FAULT!!!!

I can’t help it! I was born that way! It just happened! If she/he hadn’t said that! He/she did it first! If this hadn’t happened when I was a child! My Dad/Mom was an alcoholic, drug user, abusive, workaholic, cheater, liar and thief? I was raised in a bad environment! I wasn’t hugged enough as a child! I was hugged too much! I was in a hurry! I’m Irish, German, Scottish, Indian, Hispanic, Russian, Middle Eastern! I’m white, black, brown, red, green, purple! I’m poor! He’s just a man! I’m a woman! I’m Pentecostal, Catholic, Baptist, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Atheist! The devil made me do it! These are some of the excuses I’ve heard. I’m sure there are thousands more.

Some of my parent’s favorite sayings were, “If she jumped off a bridge, would you too.” Or “I’m not her mom/dad” or “In our family we have different rules.” I remember being so angry at how unfair everything was for me, yet so protected that my parents cared enough to say NO. Also, I was punished for disobeying. Believe me it wasn’t always a time out and never “Positive Diversion or Reinforcements.” Punishment was handed out swiftly and with a strong message that I wouldn’t soon forget.

Being raised in a Permissive Environment may be getting a little closer to a legitimate excuse. Children are being raised to be narcissistic. Parents treat their kids as if they are the center of the universe. How can the center of the universe do anything wrong? Children aren’t told their behavior is unacceptable. It might hurt their self-esteem. If children are spanked when they misbehave, they will turn in to abusers. If a child chooses to let their sin-nature show, reason with them by giving them the correct options. These theories appear in child-rearing books, written by authors that obviously never dealt with a 2, 5, 10, or 16 year old. As a result of parents raising their children based on psychological philosophy instead of Biblical philosophy, we have raised a generation of monsters.

Thursday, a young man walked into a mall and killed 8 people. His suicide note said “I just snapped.” Violence isn’t limited to young men; recent reports state that aggression on the rise in women. Previously, 1 woman for every 10 men was arrested for violence; it has now progressed to 1 woman for every 4 men. On Thursday a group of young women attacked a man on a subway because he accidently stepped on a foot. The young man who had been raised in a non-permissive environment said he did not fight back because his mother had taught him not to hit girls. IT WORKS!!!! Our kids can learn right from wrong, but these principles must be taught.

We may not want there to be any consequences for our actions, but the Bible clearly states that the opposite is true. Ezekiel 18:4 says “The man who sins shall die.” Choose life, take responsibility and let the Holy Spirit give you the power to change. Your children will thank you (eventually).

BORING MINUTES MAKE EXCITING DAYS

Robert Shields recently passed away. He left a 37.5 million word diary, chronicling his life every 5 minutes for 25 years. As Journalist Jim Shea stated, “If I am going to have anything to write about, I might have to do something. But then if I do something, how do I write about it every 5 minutes?” Perhaps Mr. Shields kept hoping something exciting would happen and he wouldn't want to forget even one little detail. Maybe he felt that life was so precious and every moment, no matter how mundane, was important. I can’t imagine reading about all the boring details of anyone’s life in 5 minute increments including my own. Especially not someone who had so little to do in life that he had time to record it every 5 minutes. However, in memory of Robert Shields, here is a snapshot of my exciting day.

Stumbled out of bed at 6:45 AM. Grandbabies are still asleep, but another one will be here at 7:30. Washed my face, brushed my teeth, hair (different brushes, I think), threw on the first outfit I could find. Poured a cup of hot coffee, took a few sips to wash down a vitamin. Prepared two bottles for Caleb, got a burp cloth and bib ready, set up his toys and made sure the wipes and diapers were handy. I know you can’t wait to keep reading. It is now 7:30 AM.

Caleb arrives at 7:40; Mackenzie appears at the top of the stairs to greet Aunt Jenesa. Park Caleb in front of toys, Mackenzie in front of TV. Thank God for Mickey Mouse Club. Scramble eggs for two little girls, couple more gulps of lukewarm coffee. Caleb is ready for his bottle. It is 8:15 AM.

Madison’s voice comes over the monitor. Grandma, Mackenzie and Caleb trail up the stairs to greet Madison. There is a method to my madness. 1 trip up and 1 trip down. Both girls are changed from PJ’s to regular clothes, dry diapers for all. Eggs and fruit for the girls, the rest of the bottle for Caleb. Change dirty diaper, Caleb goes down for AM nap, it is 9:30 AM.

My day continued with many of the same exciting events repeated over and over again. Juggled lunch for a 6 month, 17 month, 3 ½ year old. Made sure each one received often and equal hugs. Found time to use the facilities myself every few hours. Ate a snack on the run. Somehow was able to get two babies down for naps at the same time. It is 1:30 PM.

Washed the dishes, prepared the supper, played peek-a-boo, sang London Bridge, changed a landfill’s worth of soaked and dirty diapers, shared some ice cream, put two freshly bathed girls into pink jammies, read a story, said their prayers, gave goodnight kisses. It is 9:15 pm.

Thank God, this isn’t a typical day, it would be even more boring. There are few monumental days in our lives, and even fewer events that would be of interest to a jaded audience. But, I can go to sleep tonight knowing that the things I accomplished today and the things I deemed to unimportant to worry about made a difference in the lives of 3 precious little people who will always remember how much Grandma loves them.

GRANDPARENTING: A GIFT FROM GOD

It is 9:00, Sunday evening and I finally have a few minutes of time that belong exclusively to me. Yes, I am playing Grandma-mommy to Mackenzie and Madison this week. Phil and Holly are finally enjoying their long-awaited, much deserved cruise to the Bahamas. What a great time for relaxation and fun in the sun. The rest of us Michiganders awoke to a couple inches of snow, which has progressed from rain to freezing rain tonight.

It has been 27 years since I had a 3 year old and 18 month old. I don’t remember it being this exhausting. Maybe because at the time I was only 23 years old, maybe boys are easier, maybe because I was such an organized mom, RIGHT!!! It certainly wasn’t because I was less busy; we went to church 4 times per week. I can count on one hand the times we were late and on two hands the times we missed because of sick kids or inclement weather.

This morning was a piece of cake. Easy? No, that’s what I fed the kids for breakfast. Call them muffins if you want to, Madison and Mackenzie call them cake. Holly, if you are reading this, they also had some scrambled eggs and blueberries. I arrived at church with the two girls in tow at 9:45 instead of the usual 9:00. Partly because it took me that long to figure out how to buckle them in the car seats correctly and partly because I didn’t think our pre-service would be so spiritual, I could justify two kids running the aisles and shouting as praise to the Lord.

Nothing can match the feeling I had as I looked down at the smiling faces of my 3 grandchildren during the worship service. Madison cuddled up to grandpa trying to take it all in. Caleb, in his mother’s arms bounced to the music and cooed at his dad leading the worship. Mackenzie, standing by Aunt Jenesa was singing with the congregation. I’m not sure all the words she said, but I distinctly heard her say toward the end of the last song, “Let God, Let God, Arise.”
All three were in my Sunday School Class, the only three. I sat down in the middle of the floor and tried to teach about Noah; finally I just let them play with the ark, put together puzzles, then rocked Caleb to sleep.

I wasn’t brave enough to attempt our usual restaurant Sunday lunch. Macaroni and cheese, tater tots and chicken nuggets work just as well. A note to Holly, they also had corn, green beans and a few bites of a hastily ordered pizza. Then Mackenzie and I went to Wal-Mart for new “jammies” and all watched the football game to round out the day.

Finally, they are bathed, snuggled in warm new jammies and hopefully sound asleep, surrounded by an endless supply of stuffed animals. Yes, I am exhausted, but also thankful to have the opportunity to have that “mommy feeling” once again. To feel those little arms around my neck, a big wet kiss planted on my cheek and a little voice saying Grandma, I really love you. To go to Wal-Mart and Waldies (Aldi) with a little girl who can’t leave home without a tiara. To realize that it is much more fun to have two little girls performing in front of the TV then to have a clear view of the football game. To have Mackenzie jump up on my lap and share a bowl of ice cream, chocolate and vanilla at her request. Like Grandpa, she thinks this(the ice cream) helps her to have sweet dreams; I have a sneaking suspicion they discovered the secret. And finally, to read a bed time story, say their prayers and tuck them in safely for a few peaceful hours. The greatest gift God gives to parents is becoming grandparents. You get to relive your younger years, but thankfully, only for a week.

MORE PATIENCE, PLEASE

2 Peter 1: 5-7 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue;

and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.

OH GOD, PUHLEEZE, GIVE ME PATIENCE!!!! How many times in one day have I prayed that prayer? This week alone, I can’t count the times I cried out for patience. The turn lane was so long, I had to sit through two lights, Lord give me patience. Shopping at K-mart (big mistake, try Wal-Mart or Meijer), with only 2 people ahead of me, the clerk closed the lane, Lord give me patience. My grandson is teething, and nothing will stop his crying, Lord give me patience. Mackenzie and Madison are coming to stay for a week, Lord, I’m afraid to pray for patience.

God, you have answered so many of my prayers, why can’t you answer this one? Maybe He has, I just didn’t like the answer. If you don’t understand God’s methods go to His Word. Does God have anything to say about patience or is His Word as silent on the subject as I think He is at times? Some versions of the Bible have limited references in the Old Testament, all pertaining to God’s patience with mankind. The KJV contains the word patience 33 times, all in the New Testament, clearly a WORK OF GRACE.

Romans tells us that, tribulation works patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope. Timothy was instructed to follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Patience is obviously a virtue ranked up there with godliness and faith. Hebrews informs us that we have need of patience so that after we have done the will of God, we can receive the promise. James teaches that the trying of our faith works patience and reminds us of the patience of Job and what he received in the end. Of course, we don’t want to leave out Peter who gives us the building blocks of Christian character, including, yes, PATIENCE!! In the same chapter, Peter tells us that all of these qualities are necessary in life so that we may participate in the Divine Nature and escape the corruption of this world.

The muddy waters finally become clear; God doesn’t waste gifts. Every gift He bestows on us is meant to be used to make us into His image and further His plan. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if like the fairy godmother in the children’s stories, God granted every virtuous gift to us from birth? But in His wisdom, He understands that our sinful nature would lay the gift aside, never to be used. It seems that we only appreciate things we learn and earn the hard way.

If I pray for patience and everything is smooth sailing, how do I know that God has given me patience? Every time I pray for God to give me more faith, along comes a situation beyond my control. When I ask God to help me have love for others, someone unlovable comes into my life. The times I went to be more Godly, I’m faced with temptation. God is all about building our character and molding us into a useable vessel. This all takes repetition and, here’s that word again, Patience.

There is an old adage that says, “Be careful what you ask for, you just might get it.” If you don’t want the trials and tribulations, DON’T pray for patience.

THE OLD STORY

I love to tell the story

Of unseen things above

Of Jesus and His glory

Of Jesus and His love

I love to tell the story

Because I know 'tis true

It satisfies my longings

As nothing else can do

I love to read. I enjoy love stories, a good mystery, political intrigue fiction, inspirational and self-help books. Most of all I love the Word of God. As a Christian, I’m supposed to say that, right? I know it sounds trite, but every time I read a chapter, there is something new and exciting. In every verse God reveals a little bit more of himself.

Many may say that the Bible is not RELEVANT to their life. If you want to know how something is supposed to operate, you have to read the instruction manual. The Bible is life’s instruction manual, how can it not be relevant? Genealogy research is an increasingly popular hobby. My Bible tells me all about my Father, who he is, how he thinks and what inheritance he has provided for me. The Bible is full of action heroes, mysteries, thrillers, poetry, and love stories. It contains scientific knowledge, math problems, history, geography and even current events that were prophesied more than a thousand years ago.

I was so very grieved this week when I read an article by a former Pentecostal Preacher regarding his view of the Bible. He said while he believes there are many good things and principles to live by in the Bible, he no longer believes it is perfect, infallible and the inspired Word of God. He states it is merely a book written by men about God and contains many mistakes because it is the authors’ interpretation or view of things. This is how he is coming to terms with the sin in his life. If we can explain away truth by saying it is imperfect and subject to interpretation, then we can soothe our conscience when we choose to go our own way.

Last night, during the Republican Presidential Debates, a viewer asked the question, “Do you believe in the Bible, the whole Bible, that it is all true?” This proved to be a very uncomfortable topic for some of the candidates. They either did not want to offend those who do not believe or they are unsure of what they believe. Romney said he believes the Bible is the Word of God, absolutely. Huckabee, a minister, said he believes the Bible is the word of revelation to us from God himself. Thank God there are still some public officials who are not afraid to say “Yes, the Bible is true and the inspired Word of God.

Jesus said in Matthew 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. Of course if you don’t believe the Bible, you’ll just have to wait until Heaven and earth are gone and all that is left is the Word.

Pick up a Bible today, read it, love it, apply it to your life.

A WORLD GONE MAD

The London Daily Mail recently reported that Toni Vernelli, 35, had aborted her child 10 years ago because “pregnancy is bad for the environment.” She was so concerned and moved by the possibility that the planet might be destroyed that she was also sterilized. In my opinion, the latter action might actually have some effect on the planet Toni was quoted as saying, “Having children is selfish. It's all about maintaining your genetic line at the expense of the planet.” Her hope is that this will keep her carbon footprint to a minimum. How responsible!!! Too bad she didn’t take responsibility before getting pregnant. We are living in a WORLD GONE MAD! Is it possible to actually believe that we can save a universe which God created by destroying the very creation for whom God was willing to die?

From the beginning, man was given dominion over the earth. Genesis 1:28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moves upon the earth. I believe we are to be good stewards over everything that has been placed under our authority, including the earth and our environment. We must never forget, however, that the earth was created for mankind, not man for the earth. The creator, himself, has promised, Genesis 8:22 While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease. So much for global warming.

Has this woman and her Carbon Footprint Extremists considered the end result of mass sterilization to save the planet? It would mean the extinction of mankind including environmentalists. Without human life the earth becomes a huge ball of molten rock and dirt spinning aimlessly through the cosmos. At one time in history, man was so evil that even God was sick of creation. But out of his Holy Disgust, God preserved 8 people. And what do you think God did when Noah walked out into the newly washed earth? He gave him dominion over it all. Genesis 9:1 And God blessed Noah and his sons, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth. 2 And the fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast of the earth, and upon every fowl of the air, upon all that moves upon the earth, and upon all the fishes of the sea; into your hand are they delivered. 3 Every moving thing that lives shall be meat for you; even as the green herb have I given you all things.

The Bible says that God so loved the world that WHOSOEVER not WHATSOEVER could have eternal life. Yes, God does clothe the lilies of the field and sees each sparrow that falls, but he shed His blood for people. People like you and me and even environmentalist.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

DAY 7

Yesterday, my husband and I decorated the outside of our house for the Christmas season. I am a minimalist when it comes to outside decorating. Partly because I know how much Steve dreads this yearly event, partly because I get tired before my ideas run out, but mostly because I hate the obscene displays that some people put in front of their homes. I have a 4 ft. wreath decorated with pine cones, lights and a beautiful red bow mounted at the peak of the garage. Steve was so gracious when he had to get out the 20 ft. ladder to mount a higher hook, hang the heavy wreath and attaché the extension cord so it was tastefully out of sight. The porch railings are draped with evergreen (imitation, for the environment) roping, threaded with rope lights, the posts are wrapped in more greenery and tied with cheery red bows. I have a small Precious Moments nativity scene nestled in the landscape and a smaller wreath hanging on the front door. That’s it, that’s all!!! I couldn’t wait until nightfall. The switch was flipped and unlike National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, they all worked. It was a beautiful sight.

As mentioned above I hate the garish displays that some people cram onto their lawns. We have moved from millions of lights on every tree and bush, lighted sleighs with all the reindeer, plastic santas and snowmen to lighted wire trees, deer, or carolers. One homeowner in our lovely town has a large tractor tire buried on its side in his front yard. In the middle he has a lighted reindeer reaching for the sky. Last year he even had angels on each side of the tire serenading the deer. This of course inspired Steve to write the next great country song “Angel on the Tire.” Listen for it at the next CMA awards.

My personal outrage is the blow-up ornaments. These range from inflated teddy bears, snow globes with animated figures to Santa on a motorcycle. I actually heard a TV commentator call it “Yard Art.” While they may be fine as advertising at specialty shops or the mall, leave them there!!! Every time I pass a yard filled with these vinyl monstrosities, I have the urge to carry a sharp stick. Is there anything worse? YES!!!

What drives me to the brink? People who decorate their trees with Easter eggs, ghosts and pumpkins complete with pink and yellow lights in spring and orange lights in the fall. Is nothing sacred anymore? Leave the lights for Christmas!!! Tulips, lilies and daffodils are beautiful Easter decorations, fly your flag on the Fourth of July and if you must a jack-o-lantern or two on the porch for Halloween is enough.

I ‘m not sure the exact origin of decorating with lights inside and out. Some say it represents the star that guided the wisemen, others use them to guide Santa’s sleigh. I’m sure if I dig deep enough there is some pagan symbolism, but I love them because it makes everything so warm and inviting. They signify the beginning of a season in which we celebrate the occurrence of an event that would change the world.

On this last day of my week of thankfulness, I am thankful that I have eyes to see the beautiful holiday displays, yes; even the ugly, obscene vinyl globes which I’m sure are environmental hazards or at least hazards to my mental health. I am thankful that I have ears to hear Christmas music, praise and worship music, the old hymns and even country music. I am thankful I have legs and feet to walk through the leaves or wade through the snow. I am thankful I have hands and arms to hold a child or bestow a hug. I am thankful for every breath and every heartbeat. Most of all I am thankful that “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

GOD'S FAVOR

DAY 6

Today I am thankful for God’s favor. In the NIV, the word favor is found 116 times. It is referred to as grace or respect in the King James Version.

Although I have done nothing to deserve it, He has bestowed His favor on me from the moment I was born. I was privileged to have parents that not only loved and provided for me, but made sure I was taught to love God, how to be thankful and live in God’s favor. I enjoyed a wonderful childhood with 4 sisters and 1 brother. As I grew, I was surrounded by Godly men and women who loved me and encouraged me to continue to seek God’s will for my life.

It was the favor of God that led my Dad to go to a little church of 30 people when I was 16 years old. There I would meet the person He had created just for me, with whom I would spend the rest of my life. My husband, Steve, has helped me to develop a deeper relationship with God. He has also helped me to learn to enjoy the favor of God without the guilt that blessing can sometimes bring. I have been blessed with healthy children and grandchildren, in which I find great delight every day. He has provided a great home, adequate finances, friends and even 2 dogs, Gabe and Charlie.

Steve and I volunteered Wednesday at the Saginaw Rescue Mission. As we prayed with the people that had come to eat a hot meal and listen to the gospel, I was again reminded of the favor of God on my life. We prayed for people to be delivered from drugs, those who had loved ones in prison, many had lost family members to violence and were just trying to cope day to day. One lady was thankful that she had choked on a pill 2 years ago while trying to end her life. Some had no other place to get a hot meal or a safe place to live in. There were children, teenagers, young, middle age, and older adults.

Acts 10:34 tells us that God is not a respecter of persons. There always questions of why am I favored and others are not; why did God allow me to be born in America to a Godly family; why were my children born healthy and others have defects from birth? I don’t know the answers; I have to trust in God’s sovereignty and His omniscience. I do believe that we are not favored by God as just a random act, favor is bestowed to fulfill God’s purpose. It is up to me to not waste or take for granted God’s Favor. I must continue to be thankful, kind, loving, generous. I have the God-given responsibility to use this favor to bring others into a relationship with our loving Savior, Jesus Christ.

VALERIE DENISE (HAWKS) SANDERS

DAY 5

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Thanksgiving Day, November 22, 1962 had to be one of the most exciting Thanksgivings in the Hawks family. On that day, instead of a turkey, I got a baby sister named Valerie. I had just turned 5 years old and nothing could be better than my very own sister. Everything about her was wonderful. She was so tiny, just a little over 6 lbs with baby-fine hair that would soon turn into golden natural curls. I could not even imagine how thankful I would be 45 years later on Thanksgiving Day, November 22, 2007 to have such a wonderful sister and friend named Val.

It was such a privilege to be raised in a large family, 1 boy, and 5 girls. You learned so many valuable life lessons that stay with you as you move into adulthood. You learn to share, accept different ideas and personalities, and to compromise on unimportant issues. You learn how to rejoice together in each victory and sympathize with each other in the hurtful times. Most of all you realize that if you have a sister, you will always have a friend.

I love Val, she drives me crazy, I love Val, I’m so jealous of her, I love Val !!!! Everyone in the family gravitates toward her. If you want to share something exciting, call Val. If you want to find out something juicy, call Val. During depressing times in Minnesota, she was my rock. Val had the good sense to NOT tell me to pray about the situation. Instead, she was outraged with me and offered to come and help me figure out a horrible fate for such horrible people. She has loved my kids and shared in the joy I felt when my grandchildren were born.

Val is talented in so many ways. She has written several hilarious personal family stories for me as Christmas and Birthday presents. If I need a good laugh, I go back to the archives and read them. She is a great cook; much better than Paula Deen or Rachel Ray. For several years she had her own catering business. Under threat of bodily harm, I have never given her meatball recipe to anyone. Val can sew and is quite crafty in many ways.

The crowning achievement of her life has to be that she is a great wife to Jeff, a wonderful mother to Jonathon, Andrew, Tara and Eric, a fantastic mother-in-law to Sarah, Loren and Justin, a fabulous grandmother to Charlie, Levi and soon to arrive, Emma Grace. In her busy life she has still found time to be the sweetest daughter, daughter-in-law and sister to Susan, Mike, Deb, Nita and Amy. HAPPY BIRTHDAY VAL.

(It’s also the 44th anniversary of President Kennedy’s assassination, you must hate this every year.)

THE MEN IN MY LIFE

DAY 4

Today I would like to thank God for the men in my life, my husband Steve and sons Steven and Philip. I have learned to look at things from a man’s point of view, practical and to the point. They have taught me to appreciate football and always root for the Chicago Bears. I now understand that it’s “not a good job or okay” if you strike out. They would rather lose than tie, but winning is always best. I still disagree that there is no need to make your bed every day and a shirt can be worn for 3 days as long as it is your favorite and you don’t gag at the smell.

I started out with one of the truly great men, my dad. My observation of him over 18 years taught me exactly what qualities to look for in a husband and father for my children. The second man in my life was my brother Mike, who is only 21 months younger than me. As preschoolers we played pretend games endlessly. Of course he was the dad, I was the mom; he was the preacher, I played the accordion. As we grew older, we rode bikes and played baseball in the back yard with all the neighbor kids from sun up until dark. After dark, we played hide and seek and captured fireflies. When I met Steve, Mike would have him over on Saturday night after church, so we could sit up, play games and I could try to catch a husband.

I met Steve at a church Valentine banquet when I was 17 years old. I knew from the moment I saw him that someday he would be my husband. He is 5 months younger than me, so we had to wait for a whole year, until the next May to be married. For some reason our parents thought he should be 18. One of the best days of my life was my wedding day. I had dreamed all my life of being a bride. As Steve says, he was just the missing link. Actually he was and still is my dream man, my knight in shining armor, my best friend, the man who makes me furious one minute and makes me laugh the next; a real HUNK. He is the only one I could ever imagine growing old with. I am also thankful that because he is such a Man of God, we will get to spend eternity together.

Another great day was the day my first son, Steven was born. I wrote all about that day in a previous post. As he was 30 years ago, Steven continues to be a great joy and blessing in my life. He is so talented and smart, loves a good debate and has an opinion about everything. He is also a great husband to Jenesa and a great father to Caleb.

April 12, 1979, a great day in history. My second son, Philip, was born. Phil was a child that everyone was drawn to. He has irresistible blue eyes and a hilarious personality. When you first meet Phil it is hard to believe that he almost has a Masters in Mathematics. He is smart and has a mind like a steel trap. Phil can quote practically every line from all the “stupid” movies he has seen. Like the rest of my men, Phil is a wonderful husband to Holly and an adoring father to Mackenzie and Madison.

I have been so blessed by all these wonderful men. I thank God for their love, strength and faithfulness.

MY DAUGHTERS-IN-LAW

Day 3




Today I am thankful for my daughters-in-law, Holly and Jenesa. Although, I am a daughter and a daughter-in-law or maybe it is because I am both, I was very apprehensive of being a mother-in-law. I had lived in a 3-man world for so long, I wasn’t sure I could relate to young women anymore. Holly came into our lives first. Like an oldest child, she was my guinea pig. I tried to remember everything that drove me crazy and make sure I didn’t repeat them with my daughter-in-law. The first year she was married to Phil, I drove her crazy by trying too hard. Neither one of us could relax. Hopefully by the time Steven married Jenesa, my approach had improved.

I had raised my boys to be independent thinkers, so I was fully aware there was no way I could give them a list of my requirements for a daughter-in-law. My subtle approach must have worked however, because they presented the perfect candidates. The most important thing a mother wants in a daughter-in-law is that she love her son above anyone else and take care of her grandchildren. I am so blessed to have daughters-in-law who are crazy about my boys, are fantastic mothers and are also gorgeous and talented.

Thank you Holly for loving Phil. For putting up with his love of sports, even though it is something you don’t enjoy. For buying him junk food when an apple or broccoli would be so much healthier. Thank you for being such a good mother to Mackenzie and Madison and allowing us to love and know them without any restrictions. And thanks for making all those long trips across the bridge with 2 babies, letting them call me on the telephone, and just being a part of our family.

Jenesa, Happy Birthday. You are a true blessing in our lives also. Thank you for loving Steven. For listening to his “wisdom” and smiling the whole time. Although you enjoy watching sports, I’m sure Michigan and Chicago Bears Football, along with Michigan and Pistons basketball came become a little boring. And I know it is too late to convince Steven that Don Pablos is not a fine restaurant. Thank you for taking such good care of Caleb and allowing us to be such a great part of his life. And thanks for moving across the street from us and all the little ways you show you love us. We’ve only known you for 2 ½ years, but you have become one of our 4 kids.

I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful family. Thank you God for giving me sons to enjoy for 30 and 28 years. Thank you for my daughters that I have learned to love as much.

MARTHA STEWART I AM NOT

DAY 2
Today I am thankful that I am not Martha Stewart. I have never had the inclination or desire to be her. I am fixing Thanksgiving Dinner and it will not be served out of the pan. We do use forks and even knives, since it is easier to butter your roll with a knife instead of a spoon. Caleb and Steven will be drinking out of a bottle; the other guests will use glasses. The food will be the centerpiece, believe me it will cover the table. We will TIVO the football game, so we can watch the Lions lose again. Everyone will eat until they are stuffed, complain when I suggest we go for a walk, and enjoy a piece of pie, cheesecake or a turkey sandwich as soon as the dishes are washed.
By the way, I am taking reservations. There is always room for another friend at the table.

My daughter-in-law sent the following article to me. I hope she appreciates the glaring differences in Martha and me. Enjoy the article. Don’t forget to leave comments on what you are thankful for this season.

For those of you who are coming to my place for Thanksgiving dinner --Martha Stewart ain't gonna be there! Martha Stewart will not be dining with us this Thanksgiving. I'm telling you in advance, so don't act surprised.

Since Ms. Stewart won't be coming, I've made a few small changes: Our sidewalk will not be lined with homemade, paper bag luminaries. After a trial run, it was decided that no matter how cleverly done, rows of flaming lunch sacks do not have the desired welcoming effect.

Once inside, our guests will note that the entry hall is not decorated with the swags of Indian corn and fall foliage I had planned to make. Instead, I got the kids involved in the decorating by having them trackin colorful autumn leaves from the front yard. The mud was their idea.

The dining table will not be covered with expensive linens, fancy china, or crystal goblets. If possible, we will use dishes that match and everyone will get a fork. Since this IS Thanksgiving, we will refrain from using the plastic Peter Rabbit plate and the Santa napkins from last Christmas. Our centerpiece will not be the tower of fresh fruit and flowers that I promised. Instead we will be displaying a hedgehog-like decoration hand-crafted from the finest construction paper. The artist assures me it is a turkey.

We will be dining fashionably late. The children will entertain you while you wait. I'm sure they will be happy to share every choice comment I have made regarding Thanksgiving, pilgrims and the turkey hotline. Please remember that most of these comments were made at 5:00 a.m. upon discovering that the turkey was still hard enough to cut diamonds.

As accompaniment to the children's recital, I will play a recording of tribal drumming. If the children should mention that I don't own a recording of tribal drumming, or that tribal drumming sounds suspiciously like a frozen Turkey in a clothes dryer, ignore them.

We toyed with the idea of ringing a dainty silver bell to announce the start of our feast. In the end, we chose to keep our traditional method. We've also decided against a formal seating arrangement. When the smoke alarm sounds, please gather around the table and sit where you like. In the spirit of harmony, we will ask the children to sit at a separate table.

Now, I know you have all seen pictures of one person carving a turkey in front of a crowd of appreciative onlookers. This will not be happening at our dinner. For safety reasons, the turkey will be carved in a private ceremony. I stress "private" meaning: Do not, under any circumstances, enter the kitchen to laugh at me. Do not send small, unsuspecting children to check on my progress. I have an electric knife. The turkey is unarmed. It stands to reason that I will eventually win. When I do, we will eat.

I would like to take this opportunity to remind my young diners that"passing the rolls" is not a football play. Nor is it a request to bean your sister in the head with warm tasty bread. Oh, and one reminder for the adults: For the duration of the meal, and especially while in the presence of young diners, we will refer to the giblet gravy by its lesser-known name: Cheese Sauce. If a young diner questions you regarding the origins or type of Cheese Sauce, plead ignorance.

Before I forget, there is one last change. Instead of offering a choice of 12 different scrumptious desserts, we will be serving the traditional pumpkin pie, garnished with whipped cream and small fingerprints. You will still have a choice; take it or leave it.

Martha Stewart will not be dining with us this year. She probably won't come next year either.

I am thankful.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

MY LITTLE SISTER, NITA JOY

I would like to give thanks for my sister Anita or Nita Joy as the family calls her, on her 41st birthday. My first memory of Nita was the cutest little 2 year-old with bouncy little pigtails. I was nine years old when Nita was born 5th in a family of 6 kids. As the oldest, I was always excited every time a new baby came to live with us. Although as a teenager I thought they were all little pests, I wouldn’t trade the experience of being a part of a large family for anything. You always had a friend to depend on and there was never a lack of someone to play with or fight with.

Out of all my siblings, Nita has to be the smartest. I of course am a close second!! Nita was the salutatorian of her high school graduating class. She has proven her great talent for writing in songs, Christmas plays and other literary forms. Nita has used her bilingual skills for many years in helping translate for non-English speaking Hispanics. Recently, she completed her degree in Elementary Education while working a job and as a full time mom to Beka and Luke. She is now a proud 2nd grade teacher, wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend.

I thank God that he allowed Nita to be a part of my life for 41 years. Happy Birthday and thanks for being my little sister.

DON'T REFUSE THE GIFT

There once was a father who had many children. He loved his children more than any of his other possessions. He had heard their first cries, watched them take their first steps, and encouraged them through each new accomplishment. Because he loved them so much, he wanted to give them something of great value. Sure, someday all he had would be theirs, but he wanted to give them a gift right now, one they would treasure above everything they owned or would accomplish. The father thought and thought about this special gift. Finally he came up with the most incredible idea. He would give them himself. He would give them the benefit of all the wisdom he had gained over the years. If they came to a fork in the road, he would be there to shine a light and illuminate the right path. When they stumbled, he would be there to pick them up and encourage them to keep going. The father would make sure there was always enough food, a warm coat in the winter and a safe place to rest at night. He would be there with a comforting hug to help dry the tears and a joyous shout at every victory.

All he would require is that they meet with him every day for a short period of time to talk with him and then listen as he would impart everything they would need for that day. The children would need to put their complete faith in him. They could not deviate from the path he would lead them down to follow their own selfish pursuits. Then one day, after they had matured and he could trust them, he would reward them with everything from his vast storehouse. This was a magnificent idea. He could not wait to share it with his children. They would be so excited. Surely they would see how marvelous their lives would be. The day finally arrived; the father gathered all his children around and shared all the details of his plan. He gave them a preview of all the benefits his plan and the future reward that would be theirs. The children were so overwhelmed by how much their father loved them. They were so excited that they couldn’t wait to share it with all their friends. One son began to think of all he would have to do to accept the father’s great gift. What if there was something new and exciting to try? He wanted to experience life on his own. Maybe the plan worked for his father’s generation, but it just wasn’t for him today. If he took the wrong path, well he would just turn around and backtrack until he got it right. It was, after all, his life and his mistakes to make.

The father watched with sad eyes as one son lay down his portion of the gift. He grieved for his son every time he stumbled along on a path the father hadn’t prepared for him. When his son felt discouraged and defeated, he wanted to gather him in his strong arms but his son would not allow his father to comfort him. The son began to grow bitter as he became hardened by life. His sister suggested he consult with the father. The son replied angrily, “Why, what has father ever done for me? If he truly loved me, he wouldn’t let all this evil happen. If he really wanted me to be happy, he would give me what I want. The son continued to sink deeper into hopelessness, never seeing the pleading eyes and outstretched arms of his father. He came to the end. His brothers and sisters were enjoying all the father had to offer, he could only wish he would have made a different choice, but it was too late.

I have talked to so many people who wander aimlessly through life, stubbornly following their own selfish pursuits. When someone dares to mention God to them, their reply I, “what has God ever done for me?” or “How could a loving God ever allow all these bad things to happen.” They never acknowledge the real cause of their mess. They cannot face that it is because they chose to lay the Father’s wonderful gift down and walk away.

God wants to give everyone the most marvelous gift in the world. He wants every one of His children to be filled with His Spirit, the Holy Ghost, just as they were on the Day of Pentecost when the plan was revealed. His Spirit will be with us continually, teach us, guide us, comfort us, and supply our every need. Yet, so many refuse to accept this precious gift. Some may determine that it is not for them today. Others decide that the gift “cramps their style.” Many walk away because the commitment is too great.

There is still time. The Father is still patiently waiting for whosever will to take part in His wonderful plan. Receive the gift of the Holy Ghost today.

I DON'T NEED A RELEVANT CHURCH

Psalms 19:7-10 7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; 8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; 9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. 10 More to be desired are they than gold, Yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

The new buzz word in church growth and evangelism seems to be “Relevant Churches.” We are constantly trying to come up with a new program or gimmick to reach and retain potential members. The more I pondered this concept the more I realized I don’t want something that is “relevant” to the life I have carved out for myself. I want to act and think differently. I need to believe that there is a much greater hope beyond this miserable existence. I want Truth! Instead of making the Gospel relevant to my life, make my life relevant to the Gospel.

I have heard preachers make statements like: Jesus came to earth so He could know what we feel and go through or so he could relate to His creation. There is only one reason Jesus came to earth. Man had sinned, man had to die, God became a man so he could take the place of sinful man. John 3:16 doesn't say God so loved the world that he came so He could be more relevant. It says that He gave His only begotten son so we would not have to die but could have eternal life. The gospel transforms us into God's image. The Holy Spirit helps us to understand the Mind of Christ. We are to put off the old man and become a new creation in Christ Jesus.

I am convinced that a lost world doesn't want a church that is relevant; the next party or bar, latest thrill or movie relates to where they are in life. A lost world wants a church that tells them how they can be free from the chains of sin, experience joy unspeakable and lay down at night with a peace that passes all understanding.

ITS UP TO YOU

Last week a lady I had known briefly passed away. She was one of several women I have been privileged to talk to and pray with at the Saginaw Rescue Mission. Somehow she was never able to grab hold of the only power that can truly change our lives. Katherine died of alcohol poisoning. The mood at Monday’s chapel service was very somber as each lady reflected on how her death affected them. One woman mentioned Katherine’s comedic personality and how she enjoyed making others laugh. Another made the statement, “But for the grace of God…” The comment that continues to echo in my mind was made by one who seemed to be affected the most by Katherine’s death. Ameka said, “I keep wondering if there was something I could have said.” Tragic events always have a way of making us think we have the power to change outcomes. In reality we only have the power to change the outcome of our own lives by the choices we make.

Every day we are presented with different choices. The choice we go with can not only affect that day and ourselves but it can affect the rest of our lives and those we love. Sometimes we can make a correction and go in the other direction but most times we continue down the road hoping that the next choice will lead us back to the path God had cleared for us. In the famous poem, The Road Not Taken, Robert Frost writes how time and circumstance stand in the way of ever going back to where you started and making a different choice. He says of the other road:

Oh, I marked the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way
I doubted if I should ever come back.

Life is so short and so precious. We only have a limited time to get it right. Once that time is up, there are no do-overs. Make sure the choice you make and the road you follow is illuminated by the light of God. The road I have journeyed down hasn’t always been easy, free of stones and tangled roots or the most desirable. I’ve held on to God’s unchanging hand as at times I stumbled. Once again, to quote Robert Frost, “And that made all the difference.”
For you who like poetry, here is the poem in its entirety:

The Road Not Taken
By Robert Frost


TWO roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that, the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I marked the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

NOW THAT IT'S AUTUMN

In the northern half of the United States we have distinct seasons. Although living in paradise may sound inviting, I have to confess I would miss the changing seasons. Winters may seem long and cold but we have Spring that holds all the promises of new life. It is invigorating to see the first crocuses pushing through the chilly ground. The tender buds and tiny leaves on the trees hint at the shade they will provide during hot summer days. April showers…more clouds than sun… keep the winter coat out until May… still the anticipation of summer fun is always in the forefront. Summers, the lazy, hazy days of summer; picnics, vacations, weekends at the lake, warm sun, roses, outside grilling, Fourth of July; summer is full of fun, but oh so exhausting. The flip side of summer brings bugs, lawn mowing, weeding the garden, pruning the roses, sunburns, high gas prices, and rushing here and there to make sure you enjoy every moment of the short three month span.

Finally, summer fades into autumn. Autumn is my favorite season. The days are warm instead of hot, the bugs are at a minimum, the lawn needs mowing less often; it’s time to kick back and relax; really relax. The best thing about autumn is the beautiful colors. The trees and flowers are in all their glory; showing the whole world the fruit of their labor. It is as if they have worked all summer just for this season. There is nothing like walking through falling leaves, smelling the aroma of burning leaves, or jumping into a pile of neatly raked leaves. Autumn is all about comfort; sitting in front of a fire, eating crisp apples, drinking hot chocolate topped with marshmallows and filling our tummies with hearty soups. It generates thoughts of home and family, confidence and security.

Now that I am 50 and have stepped into the autumn, I can appreciate the slower pace of everyday life. I’ve learned to value and actually recognize a Kodak moment. Life isn’t about getting ahead or making a name for myself, it’s about enjoying all the blessings God has bestowed upon me after the long hot summer. I feel like the tree that stands outside my front window. It isn’t a very special tree, really. It has a spindly trunk and its branches aren’t spread out enough to give much shade on a sunny day. There is no fruit or nuts to be picked from this tree. It really isn’t good for much more than a sad decoration until autumn. Then it bursts into a beautiful flaming red. The flowers under the tree which appeared as weeds all summer suddenly blossom into a hundred small bursts of color.

It may not seem that I have accomplished much, though I have been working hard to grow during the spring and summer. Now it’s autumn! My leaves are glowing with beautiful colors as I settle into the plan God has kept just for me since the day I was born.

Thank you God for every season of my life. Sometimes I’ve been too busy or impatient to recognize what you had planned in the years ahead. Help me in this autumn season to shine for You, to use all the many lessons I’ve learned to encourage those still in the spring or summertime of life.

IT'S TIME TO GET OFF THE PORCH

ANOTHER DOG STORY (Charlie had cancer and has gone where all beloved dogs go on March 14, 2007; see picture of Gabe in previous post)

Philippians 4:13 (KJV)
I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.

Have you ever wanted to do something out of the ordinary? Ever hear God calling you to fulfill your destiny, but it was out of your comfort zone? Maybe it is time to get off the porch. God speaks to us in many different ways and through various experiences. This particular lesson was revealed through our two golden retrievers Gabe and Charlie.

Gabe is the alpha dog and usually does his own thing. Charlie, on the other hand, is the beta dog. He has a sweet, gentle personality and follows faithfully after Gabe. I was sitting on the front porch reading a book, the two dogs were at my feet watching neighbors mow their lawns, bicyclists, and children enjoying the sunny summer afternoon. The hum of the sprinkler spraying back and forth on the dry lawn provided a soothing background to all the activities. My husband came out of the garage carrying a hammer. Gabe immediately ran off the porch, braved the sprinkler, following “dad” around the side of the house to offer his expertise in fence-mending. Charlie stood up with longing in his eyes, put one foot off the step, the spray from the sprinkler showered him and he retreated back to the safety of the porch. After several attempts to dodge the spray, Charlie finally lay back down on the porch with a long sigh. He had missed his opportunity to experience something new but more important he lost out on fellowship with “dad.”

Can you name any of the followers who actually walked with Christ? Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, the other James, Simon, Judas, Mary Magdalene, Martha, Mary, mother of Jesus, Joanna, Susanna and many more.

Name the people who were called but said no. The people who couldn’t leave all and follow Jesus for the most part were not mentioned. They faded into the background and were left out of written history.

How many times has God desired to use us in a powerful way that is new and out of our comfort zone? How many times have we cheated ourselves from experiencing fellowship with our heavenly Father because a few little water droplets become an insurmountable barrier? It is time to get off the porch, let God lead us through the sprinkler and into our purpose.

FOLLOW ME BUT DON'T STEP IN IT

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.

Saturday morning, armed with a plastic bag and trowel, I began the highly anticipated job of picking up what the dog had left behind. Wait, that’s not very spiritual. Let me begin again.

As I prayerfully began the blessed job of cleaning up the back yard; yeah, right!!

Okay, here’s what really happened. Our beautiful new maple tree was going to finally be delivered and planted. So that the landscapers wouldn’t accidently step in a pile of dog dung (biblical word), I decided it would be a great idea to clean up the back yard. Actually, I perform this task a couple of times every week but this was the first time I have ever had God teach me a lesson during this distasteful activity. I have to confess the aroma makes it a little difficult to meditate extensively on spiritual things.

I walked across the lovely expanse of green lawn, but my eyes were always watching where I stepped. Each unsightly pile was scooped up and put in the bag leaving the backyard a safe and clean place once again.

Sometimes my life seems like a lovely landscape as I invite my friends to “Follow me as I follow Christ.” However, if it were not for the Lord clearing the path and picking up the piles of my faults and failures, would my friends enjoy the journey or would they become burdened with all the muck and mire I so carelessly leave behind. Instead of love, do they find gossip and judgment? Sometimes the pile of murmuring and complaining hides the joy of the Lord. Do I project anxiousness instead of peace; impatience rather than longsuffering? Not to mention gentleness, goodness and faith are too often covered with harsh words, selfishness, and fear. The piles of willfulness and lack of discipline rather than meekness and self-control are usually so big no one could accidently step in them.

Lord thank you for clearing the path for those who walk behind me. Replace all the things I leave with the fruit of your Spirit.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVEN

I don’t know which is harder to accept that I turned 50 last month or that my firstborn is 30 years old today. November 4, 1977 is as vivid to my mind as if it were yesterday. I can remember the entire day event by event. First of all I had gone 2 weeks past my due date. Our church was having a revival and I was sick of hearing people ask, “What are you still doing here” or “You haven’t gone yet?”

I woke up on Thursday morning tired of being pregnant, tired of being cooped up in a house without a car, tired of the same huge clothes, and tired of eating whatever we had in the cupboard. It was a beautiful, autumn day, so I decided to walk to the grocery store, which was about a mile round trip. I’m sure I presented a pretty picture waddling slowly down the street but at 20 years old, I wasn’t concerned about what anyone was thinking. I bought a can of Chef Boy Ar Dee spaghetti and meatballs for lunch. It tasted so good, but would come into play later.

I took a nap hoping to pass some time until church that night. Yes, I went to church even at

9 ½ months pregnant and went back, with Steven, when he was 3 ½ days old. Steve got home from work and because we had nothing to eat, we went back to the grocery store. This time I thoroughly enjoyed “broasted chicken.” That will also come into play later.

We went to church until 9:00 p.m. when our entire family left so I could go to the hospital and finally have a baby. The entire family consisted of Steve and I, my Dad and Mom, 4 sisters, and my mother-in-law. It was half the church. The evangelist must have wondered what he had said.

At 12:57 a.m. the most beautiful baby boy ever, (until my other son and grandson were born), made his entrance into the world. Back to the spaghetti and meatballs and broasted chicken; that made an entrance back into the world also.

The best thing about raising sons is they give you daughters (in-law) to enjoy without going through the pain of everything that comes with teenage girls. Then they present you with the most wonderful grandchildren in the world. As I watch my grown-up son with his little boy, I am overwhelmed with pride at the man he has become.

Happy Birthday Steven. Thanks for all the wonderful experiences and memories over the past 30 years. I am so thankful I have been privileged to be your Mom.