The long weekend was much needed. I had to get caught up on some of the details for next Saturday's Southern Gospel Spectacular and Silent Auction. We are praying hard for an incredible turn out.

My cousin, Michelle, has a great blog: www.findingyourselfbylosingyourself.blogspot.com she posted this great quote from Samuel Chadwick: The one concern of the devil is to keep saints from prayer. He fears nothing from prayerless studies, prayerless work, prayerless religion. He laughs at our toil, mocks our wisdom, but trembles when we pray. Isn't that true? Prayer is so important.

A book I'm reading right now talks about asking others "How can I pray for you"? Sure, I do it - but do I do it enough? This isn't a question that most people hear on a daily basis.  Many have probably never had anyone ask them is question, but it is a practical demonstration of God's love and believers need to be asking. We can ask people we just met. We can ask old friends. If we ask simply and sincerely, people will tell what's on their hearts.

When we set aside the time to pray for others needs, we become invested in them.  We want to follow up to see how they are doing and how God answered prayer. I'm going to make a concerted effort to start asking this question to people I work with. Who knows, maybe we can even start a small prayer group that will focus just on the requests from our employees.

I have finally made it to the book of James in my journey through the Bible.  And this morning's passage fits right in with what God has put on my hear this weekend...prayer:

Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms.  Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:13-16

We had the most beautiful weather for the Bel-Aire Park Gospel Fest. It wasn't too hot.  My favorite blue skies with cumulus clouds. I got to catch up with old friends and make a few new ones.  What could be better?  I love getting to sing outdoors.

Heck, I would stand on the street corner in downtown Indianapolis to sing about Jesus!  Maybe someday I'll really do that.   I remember as a kid going to my grandmother's house.  She lived in a rough part of town, and there was a small strip mall with a grocery store, drug store, pizza place and Goodwill. There was one scruffy man who would faithfully sit on the sidewalk with a cowboy hat turned upside down for passersby to drop in change. He probably sang country music, I don't remember. What I do remember is that I loved to run and see if he was there, and sit right in front of him and listen for hours. AND, I would think to myself, this is what I want to do when I grow up! HA!

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." So we may boldly say: "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?" Hebrews 13:17

Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord's work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work. And live peacefully with each other. Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone. See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people. Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Stay away from every kind of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-22

Saturday, Mike worked at the race track.  Jake spent some time with his dad and went to see a movie. Chris had to work and Taylor went to her friends 16th birthday party. I sang in Austin, IN. It was a great time of Christian fellowship. The crowd was small...that means a lot of people missed a real blessing. Every group was fantastic. We had a special time of prayer for the son of one of the singers. She hadn't seen or heard from him in five days, but during our prayer she got a text message from him asking if he could come home and get some clothes. Praise God! There is power in prayer. As I left the church there was the most beautiful cloud with silver lining.  All the way home the skies were so beautiful. I'm glad I got the chance to be a part of this time.

Today, all the boys went to the Brickyard 400. Mike works every race they host at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but this race is his least favorite. He is truly an IRL fan and complains that the stock cars look like turtles out there. HA!

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. Ephesians 3:14-21

Taylor started back to band camp this week. They are learning their new drill and having a great time. This girl amazes me.  First of all, she loves band but more than that its her commitment and hard work is a joy to watch. Chris has been so helpful in volunteering to take her.  So far, his driving has been nothing but a blessing!

This is a busy weekend coming up.  Friday, I sing with Declare the Glory at The Barn, I don't think I've been out there in a year or more, so it will be great to see everyone. Saturday, I'm singing solo at a church in Austin, IN with some fantastic groups: Kenny and Donna Morss, Lisa Herald, The McCoys, Right Spirit, Face To Face, Sharron Kay King This will be a great time!

Mike works at the race track on both Saturday and Sunday.  Both of the boys are able to go to the Brickyard this year.  I know they will enjoy it. Hopefully the weather will hold out and not be too hot for them.

Long ago the LORD said to Israel: I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself. Jeremiah 31:3

Restore us, O Lord God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved. Psalm 80:19

My mom called me today. It was great to hear her voice. She's been keeping in touch with her brothers and sisters back home and that makes me happy. She comes from such a big family (one of 13 kids), they haven't always been close, but I want her to feel like she has family that loves her and cares for her.

Jake spent the day with his dad and grandpa. His dad actually had hernia surgery this morning. Even though he lives in Paris, IL they sent him to Indianapolis for the surgery. Jake's grandpa was so appreciative for the time with him.  He came up and hugged me when he dropped Jake off.

The benefit for First General went well.  We raised nearly $2,000 in the offering and there were only 64 people there. Rick Clayton came and sang some of his songs. He and Mike are good friends and do lunch together often. I'm glad Mike has such a great friend. It rained so hard when it was time to leave the guys got soaking wet!

We took Taylor and Jake to Mike's dad's trailer on Lake Monroe one night. It was so beautiful. The following day we took them to West Baden and French Lick.  We took a two hour train ride on the Indiana History Museum. It went through the Hoosier National Forest to a little town called Cuzco. We would have stayed longer, but Chris was home because he had to work and the first night we were gone he was at work and had his tires slashed and his truck keyed. I just hate to see him have to experience senseless acts of vandalism.  He's such a good kid, and he works hard.

Trying to keep up with "Through the Bible in 90 Days" has consumed all my extra minutes.  I must admit there have been times when I have felt like I skimmed through it, either because it was familiar or I was just trying to stay in check with the passages on the outline. So, I'm not convinced this is better than the "In A Year" version. But, when I got to Psalms I deliberately slowed down and many chapters I've read over two or three times. I'm to chapter 94 now. I've gotten myself a little behind this way, but I know that I'm getting more out of it, so, I've decided to read the rest at my own pace with the commitment to read some daily. God has really been restoring to me the joy of my salvation through this process. I find myself marveling at His handiwork and talking everything over with Him in my mind as I go about my day.

There's so much more I want to say but my eyes are getting droopy and I have to get up for work in the morning. So, I'll write more soon.

As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. For who is God, except the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. Psalm 18:30-32

I can't wait for this weekend.  Declare the Glory is doing a benefit concert at First General Baptist Church on Friday. I hope we have great attendance!! This is Mike's parents church and we just love the people there. They need to remodel and make the basement handicap accessible so that everyone can reach their fellowship hall.

On Saturday, we sing at the RedBarn Jamboree in Nashville, IN. I have a bunch of advance sale tickets for $7.00, at the door tickets will be $9.00. Mike's dad has a place nearby on Lake Monroe  and we will be staying there Saturday and Sunday and coming home on Monday.

Today's reading had a very familiar passage near the top... 2 Chronicles 7:14 If My people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. That's powerful stuff! Mostly, I'm struck that after Solomon's death, his son Rehoboam became King and he had the power to show kindness to his people, but instead he rejected the advice of the elders and he chose to beat them and force them into heavy labor. He was on such a power trip that he abandoned the law of Lord, and God's wrath was poured upon them. 

None of us may ever be kings, but there are always people God places in our lives that we have some influence over: our children, people who work for us, etc. When humans are put in a position of power, control and manipulation are dangers. We have to be careful to always choose to lift others up, and be kind and encouraging to them and help them see the Lord in us, so that corruption doesn't sneak into our relationships.

Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:2-3

We’ve had a FANTASTIC weekend. Saturday, I got up early and went to the store. Of course, it was pouring down raining, but God gave me a opportunity to be a blessing to someone else.  I love it when He does that!

Anyway, I made a couple dishes and we spent the evening with a lot of our old friends from Marwood Baptist Church.  Celebrating and reminiscing about the times we had with Pastor Gary Felton and his wife, Pat.  There was a lot of laughter and some singing. 

About 30 of the people from this gathering decided to come over to Five Points Baptist Church and hear Declare The Glory on Sunday morning.  I praise God for them, because the attendance was really down, due to extensive flooding in the area the day before. It was great to share the time with them and sing for them.  We even got Pastor Gary up for one song.

A bunch of us went to Poe’s Cafeteria after church.  We were offered the opportunity to sing at the Felton’s church Homecoming in October in Mississippi.  I’m not sure if we’ll be able to work it in or not but I think it would be a blast to make the 10 hour drive to be with them.

I went to the dentist yesterday and found out that I’m going to have to have a root canal on Thursday morning. Waaaa! I don’t want to!!!

The LORD is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation. Numbers 14:18

Ok, so Leviticus and Numbers have made it kind of tough to hang in there with this Bible study...BUT they sure make me thankful that we are under the blood.  Christ has already paid for our sins, and what freedom we have today because of His sacrifice for us.  Praise God! 

Now, in Deuteronomy we are reminded that God has brought us this far. He has provided for every need. When we get caught up in all our 'stuff' and activities and  accomplishments, it is easy to put our trust in our own abilities. To feel like WE are somehow the ones responsible for it all. 

It reminds me of a song Sheri Easter sings called You Give, part of it goes:

You work in my weakness, its there I am strong.  I don't understand but it's true. So, I will not glory, except in the cross and I'll carefully give all the honor to you. Cause I know the truth, Lord it all comes from You and I want to give all the praises You're due.

You give and You give, again and again, every gift I can trace to Your hand. Out of Your love and compassion for man You give and You give and You give - again.

What a beautiful song. I'm so grateful that God has given us the incredible gift of music.  My favorite part of David Piper's book 90 Minutes in Heaven is his description of the music in heaven! That is going to be something else!!!

We had an unexpected surprise at church on Sunday.  Our former pastor, Gary, and his wife, Pat, were there. They moved to Mississippi about five years ago, but are back in town for their grandson's graduation. 

There's going to be a pitch in tomorrow at the hotel they are staying at to give everyone a chance to catch up. I can't wait to see everybody.  Boy, we sure had some great times with them - 'back in the day'!

Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Romans 5:1

Mike loves race month. He's working out at the track every weekend. I don't think he would ever want to live anywhere but Indianapolis. This year he got my cousin, Michelle's husband, Greg, to work with him. Chris requested the day off and went to the race.

Instead of the race, Jake chose a trip to Cedar Point with his friend Nick. They were gone for four days. Nick's mom is a saint!  She took Nick and three friends on this trip, and everything was going well until the drive home when they had a flat tire on the busy interstate.  Thank goodness a police officer came and put her spare on for her, but then she had to take the back roads all the way back to Indiana.

My friend Becky Haywood and her daughter, Katelyn, brought me a bible to work on Thursday.  It is The Bible in 90 Days. Their church, Indian Creek, is doing it right now. I'm excited about it, and I hope I can stick with it. It's about 45 min of reading a day.

We learned this week that John Myers appeal was denied by the Indiana Court of Appeals. I am praying God will surround John and his family. I can't imagine being put in this situation, I know that as a mother, if I believed in my child's innocence, it would be so hard to even consider giving up fighting for them. 

But I trusted in thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my God. My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me. Make thy face to shine upon thy servant: save me for thy mercies' sake. Psalm 31:14-16

Jake had a band concert this week. He did a great job. He will be a freshman next year! There is only four days of school left.

Last night Declare The Glory sang at a benefit concert for the New Life Apostolic Lighthouse. We had a terrific time. We got to catch up with old friends. The others who sang were The Gospel Light Singers, The Disciples Quartet, The Smiths, Dana Wright and Beth Mexin. Everyone did a great job and the spirit of God was there with us. We met some wonderful people. I feel so incredibly blessed for the opportunity to be a part of this event and pray that God will continue to open more and more doors for us.

Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. How awesome is the Lord Most High, the great King over all the earth! Psalm 47:1-2

I have a few prayer requests. I would appreciate all that would join me in faithfully lifting these individuals/situations up in prayer.

Earlene, this is a lady I helped at the grocery store a long time ago. She called me the other night to tell me that she wanted me to know she prays for me all the time. I was so blessed by her! I want God to reward her faithfulness. I’m sending her all my CD’s in hopes that she will enjoy listening to them.

Shirley Langley and family, My aunt Shirley had one kidney removed in December and was supposed to have part of the other kidney removed on 5/8.  When she got to the hospital, the surgeon reviewed her ct scan and told her that they found a spot on her adrenal gland and one on her hip bone. The surgery was cancelled again. A bone scan will be done on Tuesday. Please pray for her and her children, that God will fulfill his promise in Roman 5:8 through this situation.

Sue Stowinsky and family, My uncle Joe passed away in March. His wife Sue and his daughters are still having a very difficult time with this loss. I’ve sent a copy of the book 90 Minutes in Heaven to my aunt.  I’m hoping that it will encourage her to know that Joe is in such an amazing place and that she will see him again.

John Myers and family, John was convicted of murdering IU Student, Jill Berhman, but it is hard to believe. An appeal has been filed, but it is a long difficult process.  John's mom, Jodie, has a beautiful heart and strong faith in God. I want his exoneration to come quickly, especially for her and his sweet daughters.  You can learn more about the case by visiting: www.justiceforjohnsite.com

I talked to my mom this week.  She seems to be doing well, but as always can use our prayers. Happy Mother's Day, mom!!

Taylor and Jake and I put together flowers for Tracy's grave, and went for a visit yesterday.  Mike's mom has made the most beautiful flower arrangements down there. In some ways it's hard to believe it has been six years since she passed away. Then, as I watched Jake yesterday, I thought it's been nearly half his life. Please pray for him, he's at a very difficult age and beginning to have a lot of questions.

Chris came in from work last night with a beautiful bouquet of flowers for me for mothers day. They are so colorful. It was such a surprise for him to do something like that for me.

I have so much more to say - BUT, I've got to go get ready for church.  Taylor is in a human video today. She's excited, and we have to pick up her friend on the way there. 

And we can be confident that He will listen to us whenever we ask Him for anything in line with His will. And if we know He is listening when we make our requests, we can be sure that He will give us what we ask for. 1 John 5:14-15

One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple. Psalm 27:4

Last week, Taylor did a 'human video' with the youth group at church. It was really powerful. She enjoys doing stuff like that. She is even considering singing a song with her friend, Haley.  I hope she does!!

Chris left for Atlanta, GA early Saturday morning. So far, he is having a blast.  He's staying at the Hilton. He says it's 30 Stories with glass elevators on the outside so you can see the city. Last night, they had opening ceremonies inside the Georgia Dome. I'm praying that he has an incredible experience and makes it home safe on Wednesday.

Jake's new basketball team won two games at Crispis Atticks yesterday.  The games were blowouts, they won by more than thirty points each time. The coach of this team is Decatur Central High School's coach. It's a great opportunity for Jake.  He is enoying it.

Yesterday, we ministered at the Guardian's Home. A new friend, Kent Taylor, came and played his guitar sang some of his original songs.  He did a fantastic job! The kids loved him and we were especially blessed. The house parents were so encouraged, many came to us for prayer at the end of the evening.

Our sister-in-law's dad, Kenny Skirvin, passed away. He had been sick for awhile. Today, after church we went to the showing at Forest Lawn. This is a great family, it is a real testament to the kind of father and example he was for them. We saw our old friends Pastor Larry and Wanda Johnson at the funeral home. I love these sweet friends who are truly considered family.  They have been there for us through so many tough times and joyful times too.  I know that they are being challenged right now.  Please pray with me, that God will carry their burdens and lead them in every decision.

I've been listening to Joyce Meyers, Power Thoughts when I'm in the car. I'm on disc 2 of 4. You know it must be good when I'm able to go without music, and I can't wait to listen to the rest of it. 

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. James 1:5-6

On Saturday, Taylor had an ISSMA band competition.  Decatur received a gold.  Taylor was soaring because this is the first time she didn't get nervous. She had a flawless duet with another flute and for a sight reading piece, her teacher asked her to take the solo, which she nailed.  I'm so proud of her. I'm glad she loves music and enjoys being in the band.

Chris and the others on his DECA team were recognized at the school board meeting last night. They looked so happy. These kids are getting excited about their trip. It's not long now, they leave April 26.

Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father. John 10:17-18

Chris went to the dentist after school yesterday because he's been having some pain in one of his back teeth.  I didn't expect them to say he has an abscess and needs a root canal.  They gave him penicillin, and scheduled him for the procedure next Wednesday.

My sister-in-law Terry has moved back to Indianapolis from Fillmore, IN. She works on the weekends, but is going to go to church with me tomorrow evening. Yeah!

On Sunday, Pastor Gibson was talking about how important it is to set goals and have to do lists to keep us focused on what we have to accomplish. He said "If you don't know where you want to go, any road will get you there". That is so true!

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. James 1:8

According to the news reports, Steve shot and killed his wife Renee and their 14 yr old daughter Becky. Then, he killed himself.  I cannot comprehend why he would have done this. It is just tragic.  I just got an email from Steve a week ago. He was my first 'fan'...he used to secretly record me every time I was on the schedule for special music at church.  He put together his own CD, and told me jokingly that when I make it big, he would get rich off the recordings. Renee and I taught children's church and VBS together.  She was one of our teachers during our Wednesday evening kids program. Renee was so creative she loved crafts. She could take something that just looked like trash to me and do something amazing with it. Becky was a beautiful girl. She was Taylor's age. I can't imagine anyone, especially Steve taking her life.

To Ms. Ruby, Scott, Rosella, Lacey, Lindsey and the other family members, we are praying for you. Remember Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble...even in times like this, when nothing makes sense.  

George William Childs said "Do not keep the alabaster box of your love and friendship sealed up until your friends are dead. Fill their lives with sweetness. Speak approving, cheering words while their ears can hear them, and while their hearts can be thrilled and made happier".

Be anxious for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6,7

Now that Declare the Glory is well on its way to establishing itself as a new trio, it's time to begin planning new songs for my solo ministry.  I am so excited about this wonderful songwriter who has found me.  Her name is Sandy Bloemer.  She has written many songs and so far, I absolutely love everything she's sent me to listen to. I've been wanting to go in the studio and do a solo project ... now I just have to! It's like her songs were written for me. I feel incredibly blessed that she would allow me sing them.

We recently had a staff retreat at work, the meeting kicked off with this quote from Michelangelo: The greatest danger for most is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that its too low and we hit it.

I'm going to wrap this entry up by asking for prayer for my sister-in-law, Lynn. Her husband, Raymond, passed way this week. They were still newlyweds. She lives in Florida and is separated from  from the rest of the family, with no support system nearby.

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 2 Corinthians 4:7

I was locked in an area with several men who were tied up waiting for execution. I kept trying to comfort one in particular, he was lying barely clothed and beaten on a dirt floor with his hands tied behind his back and his feet tied together. He was so burdened, I could see in his eyes that he knew what was coming. His tears just kept flowing. I continually tried to wipe them away and tell him how sorry I was that he had to go through this. I was wearing a long roomy dress and shawl and it was very chilly. I tried to lay close to Him and use part of my clothes as a blanket to cover His body as As I wiped away His tears and apologized again, I could see his mind was somewhere else and I remember thinking that he couldn't hear me because he was deep in conversation with God. I felt desperate to free Him and protect Him from what was coming but at the same time I knew deep in my heart that I needed him to go through with this in order for me to live. That's when I realized that I was with Jesus and I felt disgusted that I would allow this wonderful pure innocent man to take my punishment. So, all I could do was cry and say "I'm so sorry, please forgive me"

I'm thankful for such a powerful reminder of the sacrifice that was made for me. I can't wait to tell the world!

From that time forth began Jesus to show unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men. Matthew 16:21-23

The youth watched The Passion of the Christ on Saturday evening. As I think about everything that Christ went through for me, I feel so unworthy. The fact that He rose on the third day, just as he said He would, gives me hope that never gets old. I am soon coming upon my thirteenth anniversary as a believer.

I want this next year to be the best one I've ever had for God.  I want to lead more people to him and make a difference in the world. I want to keep my eyes on Him rather than my own circumstances - my hand in His, walking more closely.

(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled. 2 Corinthians 10:4-6

My mom made it in safe today.  We spent part of the day looking for a small efficiency apartment but had no luck. She is eager to find a job. Please pray for her and pray that God will open the door to meet her needs.

Because of your great mercy, I come to your house, Lord, and I am filled with wonder as I bow down to worship at your holy temple. Psalm 5:7

Live your life in such a way that when your feet hit the floor in the morning, Satan shudders & says...'Oh no....she's awake!!'  I love that!

My mom is getting on a bus this morning to come back to Indiana.  She will be staying with us until she can find a place to live. She had hoped to see my uncle Joe one last time, but he passed away last night about 8:30. Please pray for us all, but especially her that God will provide a job quickly and a permanent place to stay. I'm going to have to treat her like a child and be very strict. She doesn't drive, so in addition to making space there will be all of her running and such.  I am trusting that God has a plan in this unexpected situation. 

We've had a bit of delay with our CD production.  We are hopeful that things will get back on track Monday so that we will have them in hand by the end of the month.

Tragically, the Dutch Mill Amish Buffet caught fire and was a total loss. I already had my solo booking there, and these are WONDERFUL people, who wanted to make this restaurant a special place to share God’s love with others.  I was especially impressed that Toni and John would go the extra mile after working a long day to deliver and donate their remaining food each day to a local shelter. They sank everything they had into this restaurant to get it going – and it was beautiful. My heart is heavy for them.  Please keep them in your prayers. News link: http://www.wthr.com/Global/story.asp?s=7971016

I spoke with Toni Decker last night and despite the set back, they do plan to rebuild.  I'm thrilled to hear this! She had a sweet grandbaby born less than four hours before the restaurant burnt.  That is something to praise God for.  Also, they had insurance. The fire is not suspected to be an arson. They were told that the fire burnt so hot they will never know the cause.  There will be some kind of benefit sing organized to help them either in the summer or in conjunction with the re-opening.

And they overcame him by the blood of the lamb, and by the word of their testimony Revelation 12:11

Please continue to remember this family in your prayers.

I love when you can see God's hand working and making unlikely connections. I've been a witness to that this week. I am praying that God will allow Mike and I the opportunity to encourage and minister to a fellow believer from our past who is hurting right now. 

Unbelievable blessings have been pouring in...a lady at the drugstore gave me a free tester of my favorite perfume because they no longer carry it anymore. Woo Hoo! Mike found $250 dollars under the back seat of the car. Hallelujah! We have found kitchen cabinets and appliances for the new house for a very reasonable price. The only thing we will still need to purchase is a refrigerator. I'm trusting that things will move along much more quickly now!

Spring is coming! There is beautiful sunlight in the window today.  Thank you Lord!

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

Pastor Larry Johnson at First General Baptist Church is going to let Declare the Glory practice at his church tomorrow evening. We will be able to do a full set up with the sound system, and continue getting Mike comfortable with blending our voices. I'm glad he has a new challenge! He could run my solo stuff blind folded.

Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. Matthew 21:21-22

We finished the mixing stage of Declare The Glory's CD this week.  We just have to have it mastered now, finish up the graphics and we are ready to print.  I am really getting excited about this project. I can't wait for everyone to hear it.

My car did breakdown on Wednesday night after we finished up our mixing on the CD.  Mike had to come pick me up that night and take me to work the next day.  He got it working again, there is some kind of electrical issue with it.

Freely you have received, freely give. Matthew 10:8

Yesterday, I spoke and sang at Maple Grove Christian Churches ladies retreat.  What a fantastic group of ladies.  The turnout was wonderful and the conversation was great. I wish I could have been there for the whole retreat.

Chris seems to be really enjoying his job at Kroger.  I'm thankful. He's a hard worker so I'm sure he will continue to do well.

For you, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in mercy to all those who call upon you. Psalm 86:5

Jake wants to learn to play the guitar.  We have to find someone to give him lessons.  We talked to a young man at church who may be interested. He tried out for the AAU basketball team yesterday.  I'm not sure when he'll learn if he made it or not, but basketball is his other passion. 

All three of the kids are getting excellent grades in school. Taylor is trying out for the Wind Ensemble and Chris finally began working at Kroger this week. He seems to be enjoying it pretty well. I think what he likes better than anything is driving the Dodge truck instead of my little Malibu!! I can't say that I blame him.

This coming week is going to be jam packed: at work, home and in ministry.  Please keep us all in your prayers!

Be strong and courageous...do not be discouraged, for the Lord is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

We are getting a little farther on the CD - we are up to 8 songs. Only 2 songs left to record. I think we are taking this week off from the studio. It's now time for a photo shoot and design of the cover.

Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. Isaiah 40:31

Declare The Glory has 4 songs down, 6 to go.  We will be in the studio two days next week.  It is so much fun - yet extremely exhausting. I find I feel completely drained the next day.  Please say a prayer for me this week if you think of it! And, don't forget Mike also. The schedule doesn't slow down just because I'm gone a few evenings. He has been great about helping with chauffeuring the kids, etc.

What does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?  Micah 6:8

We are well on our way! It was a blast to be in the studio. The place is just beautiful and Dwayne Smith is very easy to work with. Lord willing, we go back again next Wednesday. I'm not sure how long it will take us to complete the CD. It is a very time consuming process. Stay tuned! J

To You, O Lord, I lift up my soul, O my God, I trust in You. Psalm 25:1-2

When I think of it, it amazes me how He put us together and how our sound has jelled so quickly. We've all worked hard, but God has been giving the increase to our efforts. I praise Him for that.  

Chris is officially 17 on Monday. He didn't want the traditional cake and ice cream. He wanted pizza and pie. We had a great time celebrating him!

Sing praise to the Lord ... and give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. Psalm 30:4

I cannot fathom all the things the Lord has in store for this new year. I am waiting with anticipation to see the work of His mighty hand.

I got the tree taken down today, and Mike rearranged the bedroom. We've enjoyed so much time off it is going to be hard to go back to work tomorrow!

Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's spirit lives in you? 1 Corinthians 3:16