Wednesday was Mike's Birthday, he came and had lunch with me, then we spent a little time exploring Borders downtown.  I love that place! We got him the new Star Trek movie on Blue Ray for his birthday and we played hookie from church and had a family dinner, cake and movie night.

I took Taylor to the license branch on Friday to take her written test. She passed! Now she has to take her driving test on December 1 to have her official license. She is looking for a job if anyone hears of anything, please let us know.

Last Sunday night, we went to see The Greenes at Bethel Family Worship Center.  It has been too long since we have visited, I love that place! The Greenes were amazing. We got all their CD's! Tony and Taranda are anointed and their testimony of how God brought them together and what He has done in their lives since that time will leave you in tears. To make a long story short. Tony has had numerous health problems and went into renal failure in May. Taranda asked to be tested to see if she could give him one of her kidneys and when the transplant nurse called she was in tears. She told them that they had received a miracle. Taranda was a perfect match, so perfect, she doesn't see twins that are that close!! God is good! They had surgery in August and are both doing well. Taranda has been invited to sing O Holy Night with the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir in front of the United Nations in New York, December 10. I'd love to see that!

Come now, let us reason together," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. Isaiah 1:18

Last night, Taylor helped coordinate a Battle of the Bands at Valley Mills Christian Church. It was to raise money for her SADD club...and raise money it did - $700. We had to spend a little out of pocket to get the food, but to see those kids work so hard to pull it off was worth it. I think Taylor is a natural at event planning! Twelve bands competed. The winning band was 'How I am on Thursday' a group of three young men who go to Charity Tabernacle. I hope I got that name right. Anyway, I remember that it means, they are going to be just as spiritual on Thursday as they are on Sunday.

Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. Psalm 95:1-2

Above all else, guard your heart. For it is the wellspring of life. Proverbs 4:23

To find our stability, we must be rooted and established in Christ and His Ways. (Colossians 2:6-7) Rooted means going deep! Investing time and energy into getting to know God and His Ways. Devoting time with Him so we can have an intimate relationship with Him. And the deeper those roots can dig down, the more stable we can be ...to stand in the midst of trials.

And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us, And establish the work of our hands for us; Yes, establish the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17

Thursday evening, Mike, Chris, Jake and I went with a large group from Charity Tabernacle to distribute backpacks to the homeless.  It was such a blessing to see how many people came out to help! Even my cousin, Michelle, and a friend of hers came up from Bloomington to help. First we went to two separate bridges where a lot of homeless people live. We got out and mingled with them all, prayed with them and gave them backpacks. Everyone was so appreciative.  They loved the backpacks and discovering what was inside. They seemed so grateful for conversation. Most were actually delightful to talk to. We had a good number of children in our group.  I heard one testimony that a man said, with tears in his eyes, that seeing all these kids is like Christmas. Awwww!  The people from the bridges that really stand out to me are Samuel, Mia and Allie. There were a good number of ladies out there on the streets.

After we visited both bridges, we went pass out packs with a group from Manna Ministries.  They feed a hot meal every Thursday night, rain or shine in the NK Hurst Bean Company lot just south of Lucas Oil Stadium. I got to really have some great conversations. A few that stick out to me were Gabe, Mike, Bob, Danny and Dave. These guys were so thankful for something to eat. I learned that they had been praying for a couple of months for God to supply some backpacks. That is about how long we were collecting them, but I wasn’t able to connect with Pastor D from Manna Ministries until the week prior. God is sooooo good!

On Friday, me and a couple of friends from work, Angie and Simone, went out and passed out the remaining backpacks. We had been out the week prior and actually discovered one of Angie’s old classmates, Tammy, was homeless. She said she’s been outside for about a month. We went back to the same area we had seen her before, but she wasn’t there. We gave the packs out wherever we could. One older lady that was in front of the downtown Steak-n-Shake told Simone that she has been a Christian since 1972, and she has been homeless for 3 months. She said she has seen God more in the last 3 months than ever before. We are going to try to go out at least one lunch hour a month and do what we can.

I am blessed to have had the opportunity to be a part of this outreach.  I hope we can continue to serve in some way.

But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. 1 John 3:17-18

My aunt Barbara called me and told me that she has been diagnosed with colon cancer.  She has two malignant tumors and was told that they would need to remove the bottom two thirds of her colon.  Please pray for her! She has always been there for me when I needed her and has been a big supporter of my music. I love her so much!

Today is our 19th anniversary. It is hard to believe how fast time flies! I am lucky to have such a nice husband. I hope God allows us many more years together. We went out to eat and went shopping for new box springs, mattress and bedding. Ahhh... I will sleep like a baby tonight!

We have started a Wednesday night Beth Moore Bible study over the book of Daniel. We are on week two, I already think this one may be even better than Esther.

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ. Philippians 1:9-10

I got a call from my sister, Crystal, I met her when I was 23 and haven’t heard from her in 15 years. She is living in Jasonville and has two daughters ages 6 and 7. It sounds like things are going well for her.  She told me that our dad is living in Franklin, IN now. She said he has changed a lot. He quit drinking 9 years ago. He has been diagnosed with sclerosis of the liver. Our brother, George, has been in prison for 5 years of a 14 year sentence for methamphetamine. It was nice to hear from her, maybe we will get to see each other sometime soon.

Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God. John 3:20-21

Taylor and I went to Conseco Fieldhouse to see American Idol. We had great seats.  It was a lot of fun. I took a ton of pictures…you can see the best ones on Facebook. Before the show we went to the Circle Centre mall, while sitting near the window we saw a homeless man dig into a corner trashcan and pull out a fast food drink cup. He drank what was left inside. It is a shame that there are so many in need in our city.

I've had to sing through some sickness lately. August 29 at Trinity Southern Baptist, September 4 at Pierson's Barn and September 6 at Cloverleaf Baptist. Somehow God carried me through it!! I found out I had Bronchitis last Monday, on the verge Pneumonia. I was given Zpack antibiotic, prescription cough syrup and an albuterol inhaler. I've never had this before, it is very difficult to breath!

Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth. Proverbs 27:1

Taylor and Jake went back to school on August 10 and Chris's first day at Ivy Tech is Tuesday. Back to school is always a busy time of year but I love it! I know I will miss it when my kids are gone.

On the 15th we were part of the BelAire Park Gospel Fest. This has become an annual tradition and we were blessed with great weather and a good crowd.  I loved seeing so many people that I hadn't seen in awhile.

Boy, God has been putting the homeless in our city on my heart so strongly. I went out a few weeks ago on lunch and talked with some of them and took some pictures of the desperate situation that exists in downtown Indianapolis for so many. I was broken and sickened by the condition that many are living in. It makes me realize how spoiled I have become and takes me back to the days when I myself lived on the streets. There are a lot of young kids out there right now. It breaks my heart.

I am helping to organize a backpacks for the homeless drive at church. So many people have expressed and interest in helping with the project.  I am praying God will birth a ministry bigger than just our church. There is a need in our city and God's word calls for us to remember the poor!

This morning, Declare The Glory sang at Cathedral of Prayer.  I love this church and the people there! I always get a huge blessing from ministering there. I am going to go back solo and sing at their outdoor weenie roast, Sunday, October 18. I can't wait!!

She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands tot he needy. Proverbs 31:21

Mike and I also went and cut the grass at the house in Camby. This was my first time using the new mower. I love it. On the way back, we stopped at Southwestway Park for an impromptu hike through the woods. It was too muddy to go down by the river. One steep trail Mike took me up was ridiculous. I was exhausted!!  I don't think I want to do that again - but it was fun.

First thing this morning I broke the coffee pot. Dang it! But, so far the rest of the day has been terrific!  Mike and I are both on vacation so on Wednesday we are taking the kids to Holiday World.  It will be nice to get away and have a little fun!  

Mike and Chris and I went and did a little shopping today.  We had lunch at El Jarepo and got a couple of new games for the Wii...can't wait to play my favorite game of all time - Pinball. Ha! I hope it is fun.

But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God - and righteousness and sanctification and redemption - that, as it is written, “He who glories, let him glory in the LORD.” 1 Corinthians 1:30-31

This mornings service was amazing!  I love being a part of a church that gives way to the moving of the holy spirit and allows God to lead the service. Charity Tabernacle is alive and vibrant and growing in the Lord! From the worship to the messages, I am confident that the leaders are nothing more than vessels and we actually hear what the Lord has to say through them. Hallelujah!

He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord. Luke 4:18

But Jesus called them to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” Luke 18:16-17

Sometimes I feel like I am a terrible parent, but when I put it all into perspective and see the life my kids have and the quality of their character, I know that Mike and I have really done an incredible job with them and we should be proud of that.

He went a little farther, and fell on the ground, and prayed that if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.” Mark 35:36

There was a ceremonial pinning of parents (and Chris gave me the most beautiful flowers) and mentor. Then the boys received their new pins and neckerchiefs. They received plaques and gave acceptance speeches.  Chris gave an amazing speech!  He delivered it so well...here's what it said:

Scouting has been a major part of my life. I have not only learned how to survive in the wilderness but scouting has taught me how to be my own person. It has taught me listening, speaking, and leadership skills. It has taught me morals and character. It has taught me friendship and trust. These lessons will last me the rest of my life.

I have so many memories in scouting, I can’t even name them all. Canoeing with Alex or when Shane, Trevor, Alex and I built a huge tower at camp that held all of us, only to tear it down the next day or all of the fun times at summer camp or even Harlan’s award-winning cobbler and Jim’s charcoal-burnt pizza. These are memories I will never forget.

To younger scouts I want to tell you that the road to becoming an Eagle Scout is not an easy one. But don’t let that discourage you. The things that you will learn along the way through this hardship are the very things that you will never forget. Never Give Up and Never Quit, it’s definitely worth it.

I could not be accepting this honor tonight without the support and encouragement from my parents. My mom has done so much for me in scouting. Everything from making sure I made it to the meetings on Tuesday’s to sewing my patches on to helping put all of this together, I don’t know what I would do without her. And my Dad. He would always make sure I had a sleeping bag and a tent before a campout. I’ll never forget the father/son campout. Burning down the two ropes as fast as we could with our fire or trying to fry our eggs on a stone and they just kept sliding right off of it.

My parents aren’t the only ones I would like to thank; I would like to thank my very first Scoutmaster, Larry Culp, who started me off in scouting in the right direction. I would like to thank my Assistant Scoutmasters Jim and Razz. Jim for his vast knowledge of Trees and knots and sharing that knowledge with me, and Razz for his leadership and help with merit badges. I would like to thank my second Scoutmaster Howard, for reminding that you learn a lot in scouts, but you can have fun while doing it. I need to thank My Teachers, Community, Family and Friends and everyone that is here tonight. And lastly I would like to thank my Scoutmaster Harlan. He has taught me so much throughout the years and showed me how to be a leader. I’ve grown so much because of him. I’ll never forget his Junior Leadership Training’s. He has led me on the path to Eagle Scout and without him I wouldn’t know half the things I know today. Thank you for all the support.

I would like to end this with a quote, “Some people dream of success… while others wake up and work hard at it”

Thank you.

After his speech, Chris presented a very special award for being an inspirational individual to his grandfather.

Jake went to Cedar Point with his friend Nick this weekend, this trip has become an annual tradition.  Nick's mom, who is a saint!! - takes Nick and several friends there every summer. Pretty soon they will be helping her with the driving!

Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? James 2:17-20

I am finding it harder to keep my journal updated, partially because I've had some problems publishing and partially because I have found Facebook. I really enjoy the feedback and interaction that the site offers.  I am never quite sure if anyone reads what I write here... I don't get a lot of guestbook comments.  Anyway, for real time updates please visit me on Facebook. I also have 12 photo albums on there, so check it out!

But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children- with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts. Psalm 103:17-18

I am so thankful that my kids are blessed with a life that allows them to enjoy all the opportunities that are available to them at school and in their extra curricular activities.  They all are amazing kids.  It feels weird to have a child that has graduated from high school and is legally an adult. Wow! Time does fly! Appreciate and soak up and love every second of life because we don't have long here.

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Romans 12:3

Chris got to go to Washington DC with a small group of kids from school. He had a blast! Those who know Chris, know that he is very into politics, current events and... RON PAUL.  Well, he sent an email request to meet Ron Paul and got a response. So, while in Washington DC, Chris spent 25 minutes visiting with Ron Paul.  He says it was the best thing that has ever happened to him.

WOW - Listen to Wait and See by Brandon Heath!!!!!!  http://www.myspace.com/brandonheath I've heard it a few times but recently God really smacked me between the eyes with it. I LOVE IT!!

Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my trust in YOU!!! Psalm 25:4-5

But, as Mother Teresa said "Never place a period where God has placed a comma".

Chris and Taylor went to prom.  They both looked terrific and so grown up!  They did the limo and the whole works. They had 4 couples, all great friends, together. What fun! (pictures on www.facebook.com/pattigault) I can't believe Chris is so close to his graduation.  His girlfriend, Delaney, had an amazing purple dress with a big petticoat and all.  It was fun snapping a ton of pictures of them.

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. Colossians 3:12-13

I've had some terrific opportunities to sing in the past couple of weeks. I've fallen in love with the people from One Way Christian Church in Beech Grove! They feel like family! And with Declare The Glory, I had a return visit to one of my favorite places to sing, Southeastern Christian Fellowship. Wonderful, faithful, loving people.

We still have a lot of Belle of Louisville tickets to sell, so if anyone out there would like to go with us on Saturday, May 2, please get in touch with me.

So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 1 Timothy 1:8-10

One of my favorite things was a drive to the northern side of the Great Smokey Mountains National Park to see the Cataloochee Valley where the Elk are. The beauty of God's creation is overwhelming there.

Yesterday, we were blessed by the congregation of Twelve Mile United Methodist Church. What a beautiful bunch of people. It was a two hour drive to get there and sing for them but worth every mile. Pastor Teri White and the entire congregation made us feel like we were at home.

I will declare Your name to My brethren; In the midst of the assembly I will praise You. You who fear the LORD, praise Him! All you descendants of Jacob, glorify Him, And fear Him, all you offspring of Israel! Psalm 22:22-23

It will be a great time with many friends, such as: The Sonshiners Quartet, The Riddells, The Gospel Light Singers and the Trinity Heirs.  This is a great opportunity for us and we want to share it with everyone.

Tonight after work, I have to go to the viewing of a dear friend, Jim Whalen. He had been battling cancer for a few years, but went to be with the Lord over the weekend. He was a good man, and served as one of the deacons at Marwood Baptist Church for many years.

Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

I haven't written much lately, but I can report that God has continued to be faithful in pouring His blessings into my life.  I feel so grateful for the new friendships He has given and the old friendships He is rekindling and for our church. What an incredible place to belong to the body of Christ. We love Charity Tabernacle and are eager to see what God has in store for His people there. 

I sought the LORD, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears. They looked to Him and were radiant, And their faces were not ashamed. This poor man cried out, and the LORD heard him, And saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him and delivers them. Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him! Psalm 34: 4-8

I thought I wrote about Ryan's but I guess not.  It was wonderful! We had so many friends come out and support us on this night...36 in all. It was especially nice to see people that we haven't seen for awhile. Thank you to everyone - we love you all so much!

Chris got his truck back.  It looks different but very nice. He's happy.

Taylor won both regional and state competitions with a wind ensemble (quintet).

Jake has been on another snowboarding trip with his friend, Nick.  He enjoys the sport and actually made a jump this trip.

The house and garage in Camby and our bus were vandalized last week by a couple of young teenage boys. They made a huge mess and broke and busted about everything they could get their hands on. The whole incident has been draining.  We try to stay positive. But, there is an underlying sadness at the senselessness of it all, even for the boys and their families.

The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD. Luke 4:18-19

Monday, will be a very busy day with an all day staff meeting at work followed by a a Declare The Glory concert at Ryan's Steakhouse on US 31S. I hope we have a good turn out.  It will be great to see the Gospel Light Singers and all of our friends from Mt. Calvary again. 

I've started walking with my friend, Valerie. We are having a great time with it.  This girl is so talented. She plays keyboards, serve's as our children's pastor and started Kidz Network. She's been such a blessing to me.

And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.  1 Thessalonians 5:12-22

Chris was rear ended by a truck and smashed into another truck yesterday. The accident totaled the loner PT Cruiser.  He still doesn't have his Dodge back from that incident.  He is very stiff and sore. I had to take him down to St Francis today to be sure he wasn't too seriously injured and get some pain medication.  His neck, back and knees are hurting bad.

I praise God [once again] that he wasn’t hurt worse!

Taylor had her first drivers ed lesson this morning. She got stuck in a snow bank in Carson Park, bless her heart! The  streets are still a bit nasty. We went to get her prom dress yesterday, its so pretty, like a fairy princess.   

So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written:

“The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me,

Because He has anointed Me

To preach the gospel to the poor;

He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,

To proclaim liberty to the captives

And recovery of sight to the blind,

To set at liberty those who are oppressed;

To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD.”

Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” So all bore witness to Him, and marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth. Luke 4:16-22

It reminds me that I wanna be like my Jesus!!

I came across this scripture and as hard as it can be to swallow at times, it reminds us to pray for all of our leaders and those who frustrate us because God desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of truth. We have to approach life in that way, with a passion to see everyone saved!

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time 1 Timothy 2: 1-6

I want to live a life fully in God’s will – you know, that is hard!

Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing. For “ He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.” 1 Peter 3:8-12

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Now I myself am confident concerning you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. Nevertheless, brethren, I have written more boldly to you on some points, as reminding you, because of the grace given to me by God, that I might be a minister of Jesus Christ. Romans 15:13-15

When I think about being a princess [child of the King], it amazes me all God has done.  He is the father I never had. He is the reason I can find joy and I can get beyond all that has happened in the past.

He’s given me a hope and a future!  PRAISE GOD!

But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. Galatians 4:4-7

Charles Swindoll said in his book Dropping Your Guard “When will we ever learn that there are no hopeless situations, only people who have grown hopeless about them? What appears as an unsolvable problem to us is actually a rather exhilarating challenge.  People who inspire others are those who see invisible bridges at the end of dead end streets. Amen?

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me. Philippians 2:12-17

This week, Chris had an accident - so to speak. It could have easily been deadly - but Praise God, he is fine.  Here's a few pictures of his beautiful custom Dodge truck...

And so the story goes... Chris dropped his truck off at the Plainfield Dodge Dealer for a $80 diagnostic test which would tell him everything that is wrong with the truck. They called him when it was complete and said it would cost $1,300 to fix it. Adrian took the list and found out that Auto Zone would charge $135 for the parts. So, he told Chris he would fix it.

When Chris picked up the truck, they said there had been a recall on the hood latch so they went ahead and replaced it while it was there - free of charge. He left the dealership and as soon as he got onto the overpass at I-70 and the wind caught his hood, it flipped up, the scoop smashed through the windshield, the force ripped the grill off and through it out in the middle of the interstate.  He couldn’t see but made it onto the shoulder.

Mike rushed there and called a tow truck to take it back to over to Dodge. That evening the workers at Dodge refused to take any responsibility. We called for people to pray. Chris was without a vehicle. He gets out of school at 12:30 every day, plus he works, so this was a hassle.

The next day when the main supervisor came in, he told Mike that they were going to make it right. He provided a new white PT Cruiser until the truck is fixed. We serve a good and faithful God!! Amen?

But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; Let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them; Let those also who love Your name, Be joyful in You. For You, O LORD, will bless the righteous; With favor You will surround him as with a shield. Psalm 5:1-2

So, the first chapter was about feelings and emotions. Specifically, the teaching of the church to disconnect your faith from your emotions. There is a culture that says your emotions can't be trusted; that reason, knowledge and logic are the firm foundation on which to build our spiritual lives; that it's our attitudes and actions that matter, not how we feel about things...the author disagrees and says that emotions are God given and the more we live by them the closer we become to our true spiritual path.

My blog for chapter one is:

In terms of emotions in worship, early in my faith I belonged to a church where everyone sat quietly and internalized all their worship. While there, I know I grew in the grace and knowledge of the Lord. I have many lifelong friends there who I believe have a call on their lives to serve God in various ways.

But, when I began an evangelistic singing ministry and I began to experience different forms of worship I felt drawn to a more emotional more charismatic style. This is what is right for me. I believe this is partly because I am by nature an expressive personality. But, I recognize that not everyone is. Not everyone can be on the amiable or emotive side of the personality grid.  Some naturally fall into the analytical and driver categories and expressing emotions is much more difficult for them.

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Chris is a terrific young man.  In the last year especially, he has developed some passionate interests including marketing and politics...those who know him will agree that he's generally consumed with a Ron Paul Revolution and has a goal of starting a Young Americans for Liberty chapter here in Indianapolis. I'm eager to see where the road takes him and what he accomplishes in life. He's worked hard, at his job, in his last year of high school and at achieving the rank of eagle scout. He has a large group of friends who are really solid, trustworthy, fun, descent young people.

I thank the Lord for blessing Mike and I with such a fine young man and for allowing us the joy of seeing our years of hard work and prayers paying off.

In the coming year, I pray that God will give me many opportunities to be an encouragement to others.  I pray that I will walk close to Him and easily recognize His will for my life every step of the way.  I'm looking for God to do big things in 2009!

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age Titus 2:11-12

Christmas was wonderful this year. Christmas Eve was at Mike's parents house as always. What a family. I am blessed! Christmas day we stayed home and played. These kids are literally growing up. Chris will be 18 next week.

I have been praying to hear from my mom, just to know that she is alright.  Nothing on Thanksgiving, nothing on Christmas or her birthday.  I usually send her something but I don't know where to send it. Lord please protect her and please draw her to you. Make a change in her circumstance. I know you can.

I am preparing for a concert at Charity Tabernacle, 2700 S. Tibbs on New Year's Eve at 8:00 p.m. .....

A-hem, I could truly use a little support, so if anyone happens to be looking for a great time of fellowship, food, games (yes! euchre) PLEASE come join us!

And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace." Luke 1:76-79

OMG [Goodness] , Declare the Glory sang at Life Tabernacle last night. The blessings really are too many to count. We had a terrific time. For the short time this coffeehouse has been underway, it is by far the best one I’ve been to in our city. So well organized, clean and friendly. They are having the Freemans in for New Years Eve.  I think we may try to go.

Let me say my biggest surprise was my aunt Barb, uncle Hershel and aunt Shirley showing up. What a treasure they are in my life.  Here’s our picture:

In addition to my family and the Life Tabernacle crowd, I think we had seven people from Charity Tabernacle (the best church e-ver!), a good friend from the IGMA, Jim Thompson (Jim is a awesome singer/songwriter, looking for a group – so let me know if you are looking for a singer!) and some friends that work with Curtis’s wife, Becky.

The spirit was really moving, and we all left with great stories of encounters we had with those who were encouraged by our music. I really love that God has given me the opportunity to meet so many people!

Jake came home yesterday so excited about a book they are reading in school.  The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. He had to show me all about it on the internet. We watched videos of interviews with the author who now deceased was a college professor who wrote the book after he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and given few months to live.  He is renowned for his positive attitude all the way to the end. He asked me to get the book and read it, so I went on my lunch to purchase the book.  I can’t wait to start reading it. I expect it will be a quick read!

Learn to do good; Seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow. “ Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the LORD, “ Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool. Isaiah 1:17-18

Friday evening, some of our dear friends, Rick and Sharon Clayton, called with two extra tickets to the Gaither concert at Conseco Fieldhouse. So, off we went.  I think it has probably been 4-5 years since we've been. We had such a good time.  The music was wonderful and the fellowship even better.

Saturday evening, we went to the IGMA Christmas party at Third Phase. The people at this home for women and children are phenomenal. The testimonies were stirring, the food delicious and we were able to spend some with old friends. Especially Lisa and Kevin Brock, the four of us are going to get together for dinner in January.  I can't wait. The last time we laughed so hard I couldn't hardly breathe. What fun!

Sunday, my boss unexpectedly called with two tickets to the Colts game. This was the first time Mike or I had been inside the new Lucas Oil Stadium.  It was a great game.  I was able to capture some nice pictures. 

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. Hebrews 12:28

The Bible contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers.  Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be  wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you.

It is a traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword, and the Christian’s charter.  Here Paradise is restored, Heaven opened, and the gates of hell disclosed.

Christ is its grand subject, our good the design, and the glory of God its end.

It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully.  It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever.  It involves the highest responsibility, will reward the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with Mike's family. Mike's brother and his wife are great hosts for the big family. I actually played a Wii for the first time...tennis, bowling and boxing. It was fun, I wouldn't mind having one! We also played Ad-Versity, Scatergories and Cranium...I liked Cranium the best but it was just fun to have three generations spending time together around the table.

Chris and Taylor actually got me out at 4:00 a.m. on Black Friday, I usually try to avoid going out that day! But it was fun spending time with them. Jake wanted nothing to do with getting up that early, but later in the afternoon, Mike and I drove him to Illinois to visit his dad and grandparents.  He stayed two nights there and had a nice time. I'm really proud of his dad.  He is working hard to get his life back on track. I'm glad for Jake, because I know that it eases his mind to see his dad doing so well.

Jake's on the freshman basketball team at school. They are doing a phenomenal job, winning their first two games by an average of 30 points.   Chris continues to spend many hours on his eagle scout project. We have been helping him on Saturdays. It is exhausting! Taylor is sweet as ever.  She has two holiday band concerts this week: Thursday and Friday evening.

I haven't been able to reach my mom. She called me with a new number a while back and for some reason my Outlook contacts didn't save the update.  I keep praying that she will call. I got a letter from my brother John, he is in Marion County Jail and on his way back to prison.  I would like to let her know, in case she wants to write him.

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His mercy endures forever.  Psalm 136:1

God see's what is inside of each of us. He sees past the rough and worn out exterior to our very soul, deep within.

Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. Psalm 95:1-2

I think how many people go into a depression through the winter months - and I remember that the joy of the Lord is my strength.  I am salt and light in the world and what a better time to be an encouragement to others!!!!!  This time of year Christians need to RISE UP and SHINE! Be alert for opportunities to help others...to show them where to go to find the source of all joy. Everyone smiles in the same language...

Smiling is infectious,
You can catch it like the flu.
Someone smiled at me today,
And I started smiling too.
    ~Author Unknown

Thank you God for one more day to be your servant. Use me!

And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18

This was a wonderful post on GodTube yesterday, I agree - what other choice do we have? .....

My Hope for a Better Tomorrow is What it has Always Been.

Written by TheIrish

Amen!

Last week, I helped set up for Charity's Fall Fun Fest on Wednesday. Then, worked the edible bracelet table on Friday. It was a blast.  I love Charity Tabernacle because everyone pitches in and loves to work for the Lord.  A lot of places, people hear the word work and they run away.  Here, people hear the word work and they run to help. Isn’t that cool? ... Many hands make light work! 

I also have begun taking a Thursday evening painting class. We made a folk art winter seen plaque on a piece of wood.  I’m surprised how good it turned out. We will do craft type items through the holidays then start on canvas the first of the year!  I can't wait!

Sunday, we went to Mike's parents church for family day. I was asked to sing a couple of songs. We had 26 family members there.  My mother-in-law was beaming! We went to her house after for lunch. I have the best in-laws!  

Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. 2 Corinthians 3:4-6

The kids at the Guardian Home were amazing!!!  It was a fairly small group that came down to be with us and I sang some songs and brought them a message of hope and encouragement.  We had so many heartfelt prayer requests from the young men at the end of the night.  They were crying, I was crying. I will never forget them and hopefully they won't forget me either. Mike got especially attached to one young man named Chris. He was so helpful and sweet. He goes to court November 16 to learn if he will get to go home or if he will go someplace else. My heart went out to all of them but especially Chris, Alex, Davonte and Santos...16 year old Santos was precious to me.  He wanted prayer for his 9 year old sister and 7 year old brother. They are in foster homes.  He told me, through rolling tears, that he prays every night that God will send an angel to protect them because he has no idea where they are and if they are safe.

The house parents are great with the kids! John in particular is a Godly man who works there because his heart is helping those kids feel the love of God. Thank you God for each and every one. We don't know what is happening with the Guardian Home next year.  The state has cut off its funding and is accepting bids to privatize the institution. Let's hope and pray that the workers are able to keep their jobs and the doors will remain open for the kind of outreach that we do there.

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

Well, I've gone and done it! I got rid of my highlights and tried to go back to my original color of medium brown... did you notice the word tried?? Yes, my description of medium brown and apparently the true description are very different ... soooooo, my hair is now what I would call dark brown. Oh well, its just hair - at least I've got some! J In all things, I have to tell myself to look for the good!

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, And sinners shall be converted to You. Psalm 51:12-13

Jake is going to his friend Nick's house.  They are going to go to Martinsville and play paint ball.  I'll never understand why these boys like this game. They come home with huge welts that sometimes last days. That doesn't sound too fun to me!

But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ. For you have heard of my former conduct in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God beyond measure and tried to destroy it. And I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries in my own nation, being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers. But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles. Galatians 1:11-15

I recently heard people like this compared to the story of the withered fig tree. Matthew 21: 18-19 Now in the morning, as He [Jesus] returned to the city, He was hungry. And seeing a fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, “Let no fruit grow on you ever again.” Immediately the fig tree withered away.

I did not realize that when a fig tree gets its leaves, it also gets a small piece of fruit tucked underneath the leaf.  Now the story makes since!  When Jesus saw the fig tree's leaves He thought it was going to be able to meet His need. But when He got closer and looked under the leaves, there was nothing there. It had the appearance of being a fig tree, yet it was an imposter. Like some of today's Christians, they look the part, yet have no fruit. Powerful!

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. Colossians 3: 23-24

Our memory verses this week are:

Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.

John 14:21 He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. Matthew 6:34

My friend Toni and her family have planned a huge party this Saturday, it's called TLC to earth, EVERYONE IS WELCOME and I hope many will attend!! Click this link to learn more - http://www.rushvillerepublican.com/homepage/local_story_288092014.html

Jake is starting to get a cough and chest congestion.  If he doesn't feel better with over the counter within a couple days, I'm going to take him to the doctor.  Our worship leader came down with pneumonia two weeks ago and several other people at church have been sick too.

How great you are, O Sovereign LORD! There is no one like you, and there is no God but you, as we have heard with our own ears. 2 Samuel 7:22

I am blessed, my problems are small, my joys are great. Thank you God!

We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. 2 For He says:“ In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed. 4 But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses, 5 in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in fastings; 6 by purity, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love, 7 by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, 8 by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; 9 as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as chastened, and yet not killed; 10 as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things. 2 Corinthians 1:1-10

The pastor's message yesterday touched on a scripture we had in class on Wednesday evening... boy is it a good one that is timely for me right now! John 8:31-32 - Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

My prayer today is that God will use me. Give me opportunities to be a blessing today. Show me the things that You would have me do. Guide my steps. Lead my words. Don't let me be a stumbling block to anyone but allow me to be the encourager.  Your will not mine, Lord!!

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written:“ For Your sake we are killed all day long We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:31-39

After church this morning we are going to go take a tour of the new airport at its community day event. That should be fun for us because it is basically in our back yard.

Jake took his, friend, Corey, and cousin, Tabbetha, to youth last night. Corey has been to church a couple of times now. When I dropped him off last night, he said "I'm going to try to get my dad to go in the morning".  Bless his heart!

Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise. Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:20- 21

Mike's dad is feeling a little better today - but we need to keep praying that he feels 100% very soon. I made some homemade vegetable soup in the crock pot yesterday. I'm going to take some of that by to them later. I'm lucky to have the in-laws that I do. They are wonderful. I love them so much!

Speaking of prayer requests, I have an urgent prayer request for my father-in-law, George Gault.  He is not feeling well and has been very weak and tired.

We have committed to a scripture memory course. The two verses for this week are:

2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

Galatians 2:20 - I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

I am thankful we live in a country where we are free to pray and read God's word without persecution. It is so easy to take those freedoms for granted. We have the right to speak our minds, tell of our faith and share the plan of salvation with others. That is a freedom we should never take for granted.  We should share at every opportunity.

I am thankful we are free to visit our favorite place of worship in this country to learn and grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is so easy to take that for granted too. I love our church, Charity Tabernacle. At our church we don't see Jesus as a get out of hell free card, we see Him as a live life to the fullest invitation. At our church we believe that we are all broken people in need of a Savior. It is a loving not a legalistic place.

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Please watch: http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=8cf08faca5dd9ea45513

For I know that my Redeemer lives, And He shall stand at last on the earth; And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, That in my flesh I shall see God, Whom I shall see for myself, And my eyes shall behold, and not another. How my heart yearns within me! Job 19:25-27

Today, I am feeling so blessed by the wonderful people God has placed in my life. Who am I to deserve such a life? The best I can do to give my thanks is pray for them - and I truly do. 

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.  1 Peter 1:3-9

Remember Me

 Remember me when flowers bloom

Early in the spring

Remember me on sunny days

In the fun that summer brings

Remember me in the fall

As you walk through leaves of gold

And remember me in the wintertime

In the stories that are told

And most of all remember

Each day – right from the start

I will be forever near

For I live within your heart

 - J. Morse

Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. Colossians 2:7

Today is Mike and my 18th anniversary!  Hallelujah! It is amazing where God has brought us from.  I would be surprised if 10% of the people who knew us when we were married expected us make it. It's been a good day and I feel blessed. We didn't do anything special, just hung out with the family, cooked out on the grill and reminisced about old times.

I did take the day off work because Chris and I went on a college visit to UIndy. I will always call it U of I, but they have reimaged themselves, I guess. I like this school a lot. Its small enough to not be overwhelming and close enough to still live at home and save the housing costs.  He's also visited IUPUI, Butler and Ball State. Decisions - Decisions.

And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11

Declare the Glory had a last minute opportunity to sing at Fleming Garden Christian Church on Monday.  The people there are so friendly.  I've known a couple there, Cecil and Dottie Sprinkle, for several years. This church has a beautiful sanctuary! They had a fellowship dinner and it was great to see so many people engaged in pitching in to do the work. Mike made a group of new friends and I think he's ready to go on their next cruise. 

We have a church wide picnic at Bel-Aire park tomorrow. I'm looking forward to it. It is going to be a nice day. Jake has two friends, Corey and Colin, spending the night tonight and all the kids are going to be able to make it because Chris doesn't work until later in the evening.  We may even have a few neighbors coming!

Pray for our country and our leaders today.

So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. Hebrews 10:35-36

My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world. 1 John 2:1-2

Mike's Lincoln was hit by a drunk driver while parked in the driveway at 3:30 Sunday morning. He took it relatively well. We still have to get an estimate on it. It's drivable, but the frame may have been bent. Chris's truck is completely broke down. So we are having some challenges this week with all five schedules. If you think of of us, please say a little prayer.

I know our problems are so small compared to others and I feel incredibly blessed everyday to have faith, my family and extended family, a roof over my head, health, great friends, a ministry for the Lord, a fantastic job...I could go on and on.  When I think of where God's brought me from - hopelessness and homelessness, sleeping under the stairwell in the winter, with nothing but what I had on and what I could steal...to hope and faith and blessing and geez - with so much stuff. I have more than I deserve, more than I need. Don't we all? Thank you father!

I will walk among you; I will be your God, and you will be my people. Leviticus 26:12

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

Sunday morning was a wild ride! The morning was one disaster after another! I had to truly rely on the Lord to stay focused and get through it. When I got out of the shower and took the trash bag off my clothes, my skirt wasn't there. I cried about it for a minute, then resigned my self to the fact that it-is-what-it-is and just prayed that no one would be offended by my coming in pants...the only bottoms I had with me were the black dress pants I wore the night before when we set up sound.  They were quite wrinkled and rather dirty but again I thanked God that I hadn't put my jeans on before we left.

Mike felt so bad because he was the one who took my hangers, put the bag over them and put them in the car. So, he said lets run to the Super Wal-mart at the next exit and see if they have a skirt. Well...we went the wrong way on the highway, got off on the wrong exit and started wondering about town. With only an hour and a half before we were supposed to be at the church, I suggested we stop in a gas station, get a coffee and ask where to find the Wal-mart. It was the clerks first day on the job and it literally took him 5 minutes to ring up the two coffees.  I remained calm, but inside I couldn't believe this was happening. THEN, I walked out the door and fell - HARD!! I skinned my knee off, twisted my ankle, got concrete burn on my palms, busted my coffee all over me, it even went in my jacket up to my elbow. I was a terrible mess and the entire content of my purse was wading in standing coffee, including about $15 worth of change. At this point, I'm sobbing uncontrollably and have ruined the makeup on my face too.

We still had to go to the store and by now my only pants were completely destroyed. They had one gaudy flowered skirt, so I got a pair of gray dress pants. I got cleaned up and we made it to the church on time, but I felt on the verge of tears until the first service began. Then, God gave me a peace and helped me through. Isn't He good?

My uncle Joe, aunt Sue, and their grandson Joey came to the first service along with my cousin, Carolyn.  They are such a blessing. Also, my cousin, Michelle, and her husband, Greg, go to church at Maple Grove and they decided to stay for both services. My aunt Shirley and several of her friends came for the second service which was wonderful. 

I met so many nice people. The pastor was terrific. I had a beautiful email from one of the teenagers when I got home. I can't wait to be with the ladies again at their retreat in February.

Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. Psalm 42:5

Chris got his driver's license! Yea! I'm proud of him and I know he feels good about himself and is glad that he doesn't have to deal with renewing until 2012.  

Taylor spent the night with a friend Saturday evening but Mike, Chris, Jake and I drove almost to Louisville to see some fabulous Christmas lights set to music.  It was very cool and the boys really enjoyed it. We stopped and had dinner on the way back.  We learned that Jake has sent more than 2,000 text messages since he got his phone on December 14.  How is that possible? Geez. Thank goodness for unlimited texting!! I don't think we could have gotten him a better birthday present.

Taylor enjoyed visiting the youth meeting at Charity Tabernacle on Saturday. She was inspired by the youth minister...glowing because one of her good friends was saved.  The kids have really made her feel welcome there. It is great to see our young people worshiping and praising God. It makes me want to shout! Wooo!

My uncle Billy called me on Friday.  We talked for quite awhile.  It was so nice to hear from him. He seems to be doing well. I remember certain things about my uncle Billy from when I was a child.  He loved Frosted Mini Wheats, Fudge Swirl Ice Cream and told me every single time he seen me that he was going to give me a knuckle sandwich (in a joking way).

I've talked to my mom a couple times this week.  PLEASE pray for her. She is having a rough time with her boyfriend and is considering moving back to Indiana soon.  She needs a place to stay and a job, if she decides to come home.  The timing couldn't be worse for us, because we really don't have the space to take her in. I'm praying God will make a way for her to be safe and prosperous. I would really like to see her reach the place in her life where she becomes self-sufficient and/or finds the person she can love forever and build a life together that will last.

Mike has been so sweet and helpful this week. He's helped with cleaning and grocery shopping. He bought me a beautiful nativity statue. It's funny to see how excited he gets about Christmas. He now has our Christmas tree set to music.  Honestly, he is the only one who can stand it for very long.  All that flashing and hopping of lights makes me dizzy.  He loves to get into the Santa suit every chance he gets too.  Once again this year he played Santa for the Special Olympics Christmas dinner.  He will also be Santa tonight at his parent gathering - which should be hilarious.  I wish I had a video camera! We have six in the family between 2 and 5. I bet they will love a visit from Santa.

I am thankful that the season which celebrates our Saviors birth brings out the best in so many people. I wish generosity and concern for others permeated our culture all year long. 

I have come that they may have life, and have it more abundantly.  John 10:10

Things continue to speed along with Declare the Glory. We are going to Shoreline Studios on January 9 to begin work on our CD. I am downright thrilled when I think about it all. I'm anxious for everyone to hear us. There is nothing like having great harmony!

Taylor is beginning to prep for her trip to New Orleans. She pulls out in just 10 days. The itinerary is packed with lots of community service through Habitat for Humanity and of course, the band is performing during the half-time show at the Sugar Bowl. I'm praying for a safe trip.

I learned today that my uncle Joe's cancer is back- in his lungs, liver and brain. He is such a sweet man. I'm asking God to draw him close and give him peace. I know, like all of us, he has people in his life who need the Lord. I'm praying that eyes will be opened to the hand of God through this situation.

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His mercy. Psalm 147:11

And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled. In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; Colossians 1:21-23

Jake will be coming to live with us this week. It feels like we've waited forever! We finally got the house ready and are asking God for a smooth transition for him, as well as, Chris and Taylor.

I have inscribed you on the palm of my hand. Isaiah 49:16

We've spent the last couple of weeks getting our house ready for Jacob.  We've turned the den into a bedroom.  Mike still has to put a door up  and put up closet rods in the screened in back porch. Both the kids have been through all their stuff and boxed up lots of stuff for Amvets, some for storage and some for the trash man.

Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation. 2 Corinthians 7:4

I performed with the new trio, Declare The Glory. It was our first real concert and the setting couldn't have been better. We were warmly received. It was really a blast. Chris is going to start working on a website for us.  I can't wait to see what God does with us!

God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. 2 Corinthians 5:19-21

We went to Mackenzie's third birthday party. I can't believe she's three already. I don't get to see her enough. She looked so pretty. Her hair was in a little ponytail with a ringlet at the bottom. It was a beautiful day, Mike ran the grill and we had a big cook out. Adrian and Brooke have done so much to their place it really is great.  It makes me want to be in our other house so bad.

Especially, since our nephew, Jacob, is going to become 'officially ours'. Many of you know already because I've asked for your prayers. I've wanted to write about this for so long but have been afraid to until I was sure it was really going to happen. We love this boy! Please pray for him, he's had so many changes in his life - loosing his mom to cancer when he was eight and being taken away from his dad. He has been living with Mike's sister, Diana, for a few years. His dad's parental rights were recently terminated. He's thirteen now, which is the same age I was when my mom's parental rights were terminated. I'm excited about him coming. It is going to be tight in our current house and I do think its going to be a big adjustment for Jake. He is already with us a whole lot, but right now he can leave when he gets tired of being here. Chris and Jake are like brothers, they love to be together, but they also get under each others skin sometimes.  We'll be moving all his stuff in over the Thanksgiving holiday. Praise God - I'll have three teenagers!

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him  Psalm 37:7

On Wednesday morning, I got to sing for the Guardian's Home Guild meeting. This group was such a blessing. I enjoyed being with them and sharing my story with them. Many of them lived in Guardian's Home as children, others just love kids and want to help them. Either way, they made me feel welcome and appreciated. Mike went and set up the sound system before he went to work. When I was done singing, I had to tear down and pack up the system. Whew!  I have a new found appreciation for all he does!

Thursday, Mike worked the concession stand for the 8th Grade football game then headed to Gray's cafeteria for dinner with his family to celebrate his sister Lynn's wedding. I helped the boosters decorate the halls and band room for Regionals. We made posters, hung balloons and streamers, etc.. I really enjoyed it.

Last night, Mike's sister Lynn married Raymond Vanderburg.  The ceremony was held at Mike's parents house and was officiated by Pastor, Carl Coffey. I wish them much happiness. They live in Florida. It was nice that they were able to come to Indiana and share this special day with the family.

We are getting ready to leave to Taylor's regional band competition in Terre Haute. I hope they nail it!  The top five schools in each class get to move on to state competition.

We are still looking for nice used cabinets for our new house if anyone hears of any that are available we would appreciate them letting us know.

Lastly for today, please lift my mom up in prayer. She has lost her apartment and is staying with a friend. This situation isn't the best, and she doesn't know what to do right now. She's also concerned for her job. Seven people were laid off this week. She is relatively new and is afraid she may be in the next round of lay offs.  

I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation of everyone who believes. Romans 1:16

Thanks for your prayers, my aunt Shirley has come through her surgery amazingly well. They ended up only having to take out her left kidney.  Please continue to pray for her speedy and complete recovery.

Mike and his brother, Matt, went to the Talladega race in Alabama this weekend. I expect them back home today.  I've talked with Mike a few times, they are enjoying themselves. Apparently Jeff Gordon won the race and only led one lap - the most important one.

Mike's sister Lynn is coming in from Florida to get married on Friday. It will be great to see her. Marriage makes me think of when we make a commitment to the Lord for the rest of our lives... Praise God it doesn't end in 'til death do us part'!

Friday night, I worked the concession stand for Decatur Central's homecoming game. Whew! That was fun and exhausting! Decatur played Roncalli and won. I saw so many kids that I worked with in the elementary school.  They have all grown up so fast.

Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone. Proverbs 23:4-5

God always knows exactly what I need! His timing is perfect. He's stretching me and 'enlarging my steps'. I'm anticipating that 2008 is going to be a fantastic year!

I'm excited to finally share with everyone that I will begin singing in a trio with Ken Cornelius and Curtis Haywood (formerly of Praise the Lord Quartet). If you've read much of my journal, you know, I love to sing with these great guys every chance I get. Mike and I have known them for many years. After 15 years with Praise the Lord, the bass singer Clark Lemaire and his daughter, Danielle, decided to leave the group to pursue new opportunities in a family ministry.  Even though several opportunities to sing with other people have been offered to me in the past, I would not have considered singing with anyone else.

Ken used to be my choir director at Marwood Baptist Church. He is a great teacher and I've learned so much from him.  He is actually the one who encouraged me to sing my first solo at church! Ken and his wife, Marcia, live in Beech Grove with their dog, Taffy.

Curtis is a funny guy. You'll love hearing the crazy voices he can do. Curtis and his wife, Becky, are always busy working for the Lord. Becky overcame breast cancer this past year. They live in Avon with their beautiful daughter, Kaitlin.

We don't have a name for our group yet, SO if you would like to recommend something - send me an email at pattigault@comcast.net. We are going to sing together Oct. 27, 2007 at 6:00 at Cornerstone Baptist in Elizabethtown. Then, we will take the rest of the winter to practice and work on our program. We will be available for booking after late March 2008.  I know everyone will love our sound. I can't wait to see how God will use this group.

My aunt Shirley goes in for surgery at 8:30 in the morning. She has cancer and will have her left kidney, spleen and possibly part of her pancreas removed. Please remember her recovery and her family in your prayers. I am praying that they will all draw closer to the Lord and put their trust in him through this situation.

Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy gentleness hath made me great. Thou hast enlarged my steps under me; so that my feet did not slip.

2 Samuel 22:36 & Psalm 18:35-36

I'm reminded that life is short. We don't have much time on this earth. I want my time here to make a difference in some way. I want to share the hope I have with others. I want God to use me. I want to look to him for every choice I make in life.

Our time is precious, let's make the most of it. This week I'm going to tell somebody in my life how much I appreciate them each day.

If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face ... then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.  2 Chronicles 7:14

Today, Chris got the day out of school, so I took him to work with me.  He was a big help. Because of his GQE scores, he can also go in at 11:30 two other days this week. I'm going to take him back to work on one of them and he is going to go help Mike's parents on the other.

I'm going to sing at my cousin, Michelle's church, in Bloomington in December. I'm so excited about this. I wish we lived closer, because she is one of those people you just want to be near. Her faith is strong and she is a faithful prayer warrior! Praise God!

The Lord will come like a thief in the night. 1 Thessalonians 5:2

We are going to Taylor's band competition at Warren Central today. She is so focused during a competition. I am PROUD of all her hard work.

Please remember my aunt Shirley Langley who lives in Bloomington. She has been diagnosed with cancer. She is having surgery to have her left kidney and possibly her spleen and pancreas removed on October 4 at 8:00 a.m.

I have sought your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise. Psalm 119:58

The kids stayed with their aunt Diana while we were gone. Taylor couldn't wait to get home. Chris was ready to move in. Bless his heart. Isn't it funny how each one of us are made so differently?

Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel Philippians 1:27

It was good to have a little drive with Chris and spend some time with him. Gosh, I can't believe he'll be 17 in January!

The bluegrass band Two Highways sang before me - they are great! I had never heard them before.

God is really stretching me and I am so excited about it. Sometimes, His timing just blows me away!

Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. Acts 2:28

Mike and I are planning for a quick trip to the National Quartet Convention in Louisville.  We will spend some time working the IGMA booth and some time enjoying great music. I've never been before, so I'm really looking forward to it.

I sing at a music festival in North Vernon at First Assembly of God Church tomorrow. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone there. I haven't seen any of them in a year or more.

Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. John 20:21

After the Day of Enrichment, we went to the marching bands parent preview. I added a few pictures of their practice to my site. Boy they sure do work hard and they've had some extremely hot days!

The LORD is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him. Exodus 15:2

Well, as great as the festival was, it was just the cake...Chris's Boy scout Court of Honor was the icing for the day. That evening when all the awards were being given and Chris received his, he called me up on the stage and pulled out 2 dozen roses and proceeded to thank me for all the things I've done for him and meant to him over the years. Awwww! Now that was a rare and beautiful thing.

Mike, Chris, Jake, Adrian and Mike's brother, Matt, are going to see an Indianapolis Indian's game tonight. How fun for them. We only wish Mike's dad felt well enough to go also.  He is battling with Shingles right now and just can't do much. He's in so much discomfort, please remember him in your prayers.

As you do not know the path of the wind or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things. Ecclesiastes 11:5

Well both of my kids are officially in high school now.  It is amazing how fast time flies.  Taylor has had a pretty intense summer with marching band and it doesn't get any better when school starts.  I'm proud of her for not giving up. She's worked hard. Decatur has its first football game against Pike on 8/24/07. Parents get to have a preview of the bands program this Saturday.  I can't wait!

Chris has to pick his Eagle Scout project, so if anybody out there knows of something that would be a good fit for him, please let him know chrisgault@comcast.net.

On Sunday, I shared the stage with Praise the Lord Quartet at Cathedral of Prayer Baptist Church. I got to sing with Ken and Curtis again. It was so fun, it makes me want to be in a trio!

I talked to my mom on my birthday. Gosh, I miss her.  I wish she could come for a long visit. She's doing great. I continue to pray for God's protection and leading in her life.

This month I moved into the IGMA State Membership Chair position.  Since I think this is a great organization and everyone should join - this is great for me!

This week I've been having to call in every day for jury duty. So far, my number has not been up. I'm thankful. They only seem to call me on Board meeting months. In the five years I've been with Riley Children's Foundation, they have called me three times! Mike served on a jury just last month.

In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33

We met Tim last week, when he stepped in and helped us in a pinch at the fair last Saturday. He is a talented singer and songwriter who plays a variety of instruments. He is a member of Central Indiana Christian Songwriters Association, and I must say he is one cool cat.

Luke Austin Daugherty first caught our attention when he sang at a benefit for Alexa Shank, a beautiful little 10 year old, who lost her battle with leukemia after fighting with it for 4 years. I met her and her precious family through my job with Riley Children's Foundation. Luke ended up writing a song called Lexi Danced about Alexa. It's a great song. We've been big fans ever since!

No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him. 1 Corinthians 2:9

Please help me pray especially for the Jubilation Singers. They came out and did a fantastic job on Tuesday evening. Then, without warning on Friday, one of the singers, Charity Barnes, lost her husband Rick to a heart attack on Friday. The news came as a shock, Rick was 51 and appeared to be the picture of health. Charity will need all of our prayers during this difficult time.

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 1 Timothy 6:6-7

How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. Psalm 36:7

I'm glad the Johnson County Fair is just about here. Please help me pray that everything will go smoothly and solely for the glory of God. I added a poster to my schedule page for those interested in the lineup for the week.

Wealth gained by dishonesty will be diminished, but he who gathers by labor will increase. Proverbs 13:11

Saturday, I got to sing at my cousin Heather's wedding. It was so hot but they had fans under the tent which kept things bearable. It was good to see some of my family. I know that Heather and David will have a long and happy marriage if they put God and His will for their lives in the center of everything they do.

I sang on Sunday at Center Community Church in Plainfield, IN.  The pastor, Roger Foggin, and his wife, Jera, took us to lunch after the service.  We had such a good time fellowshipping with them and another couple. We hope for another opportunity to be with these great Christian brothers and sisters.

So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. Hebrews 10:35-36

Taylor and I went to get our hair cut yesterday.  I just got a trim but Taylor got a really great looking cut. She looks absolutely adorable. I can't believe how old my kids are getting!

I'm really looking forward to this month. So many fun things are coming up! I typically dread singing at weddings but I can't wait to sing at my cousins wedding next week because there will be so many of my family there. Most of them have never heard me sing live. She's so easy going that I don't feel the pressure that typically comes with a wedding either.

And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. Luke 24: 38-39

I have two special prayer requests. The first is for my sister-in-law's dad, Ken. He has numerous health problems including a rare muscular disease, ruptured disks in his back and a tumor next to his lung. The second one is for a speedy recovery for our dear friend, Bob Dailey. He broke his hip when he wrecked his van.

I've added some new pictures from Taylor's birthday and other recent family events.

Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God... John 1:12

Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes. And ye shall teach them your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. Deuteronomy 11:18-19

Chris was home from Cedar Point for only one day when he left for boy scout camp at Camp Ransburg. He just got back today. It was a great week for camp, other than being a little too hot. He earned 4 merit badges: Motor Boating, Metalwork, Basketry and Energy.  I'm so glad Chris has stuck with boy scouts through the years, he's gotten to experience many things he would not otherwise have have had the opportunity to do.

Taylor has gotten to have several friends over during Chris's time away. I'm daily blessed by the character that is developing in her.  At times I can hardly wait to see everything she accomplishes in her life.

Mike, Chris and Jake will spend the day at the track tomorrow for the F-1 race.  Mike enjoys working races at the Speedway.  He's been doing it since he was 18, he grew up with his dad working out there. The whole family loves racing.

I had the chance to practice with Ken Cornelius and Curtis Haywood earlier in the week. We are going to get together again on Monday in preparation for our singing at Myers Dinner Theatre in Hillsboro, IN on June 24.

Which of you by worrying can add on cubit to his stature? Matthew 6:27

This past weekend was the Indiana Gospel Music Association's Annual Retreat - and we had a time! Friday, there was a fun open mic style singing, then a message from Rev. Ken Gates. Saturday, started with a great concert by the Minister's Quartet, a worship service, lunch and fellowship, then an entire afternoon of singing in a public concert style event. Even though the day was so long and we were all exhausted, none of us wanted the day to end. Sunday, was an amazing time of worship with Jeff and Jeanie Shelburne and a communion service.  Mike set up and ran the sound for the weekend, and did an amazing job.  I'm so blessed to have his talent committed to my ministry.

Tuesday, was our regular IGMA meeting, and we had a great special guest - Doug Anderson of Signature Sound Quartet. Neat guy, great voice, super personality, genuine, kind and generous. How cool it was to have him with us! We had a big crowd and yummy catered dinner.

Also on Tuesday our kids headed out for Cedar Point.  Aunt Diana and Uncle Tim have taken the four teen nieces and nephews until Friday. I hope they have an awesome time.

I am the bread of life, He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believe in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35

School is just about over and Mike and I both have a lot of time off scheduled for June. I'm looking forward to the extra family time, and hopefully progress on the new house. 

Tuesday was Taylor's Awards Night. She's amazing! Her teacher hit the nail on the head when he said she's read an obnoxious amount of books this year. I've never seen someone who likes to read so much.  She ended up getting a special recognition in reading for it.  She also received perfect attendance.  All the student who received perfect attendance were put into a drawing for a brand new Dell computer and flat screen monitor. Taylor WON! It was so great to see her get this because she's worked so hard this year. Thanks to Brittany Pierce for praying that Taylor would win!

Thou in thy mercy hast led forth the people which thou hast redeemed: thou hast guided them in thy strength unto thy holy habitation. Exodus 15:13

Mike and I went to the Guardian's Home last night. Boy, it was a blessing!  I think this was the first time the boys outnumbered the girls.  The girls were especially sweet, though.  One girl wanted to lead Here I am to Worship with me, and three girls stayed after for prayer.

I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.  2 Timothy 1:12

Monday evening I got the opportunity to sing a few songs at the Ryan's Steakhouse Gospel Sing. The Gospel Light Singers were there and the Disciples Quartet.  It was a great evening, and I saw many friends that I haven't been in touch with for awhile, so the night was blessed.

Well, there was another benefit for the Johnson County Fair Tent last night. Mike was so excited to get to run the sound.  He got a new digital mini disk recorder and recorded the evening. Sonja Riddell hit-it-out-of-the-ball-park on Amazing Grace!!  I can't wait to play it back.  Both Justin and Kayla Riddell were sick and couldn't sing, but David and Sonja sounded terrific. Unfortunately, Danny McAdams had some problems with his blood pressure and couldn't make it. Palma Conver sang also.  I love to hear her sing, she has a beautiful voice.

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep HIs commandments, For this is man's all.  For God will bring every work into judgment, Including every secret thing, Whether good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

Friday, I went to a charity auction for the Johnson County fair.  I bought too much stuff, but it all went for a good cause. They raised around $1000 for the fair tent.

I talked to my mom this weekend and she is doing great.  I was a bit worried about her taking on a benefit concert with her resources, but it sounds like everything is coming together for her. She has a few friends that are pitching in to get things done. We'll be going down in June to visit, and sing.  I'm praying that God will open another door or two while I'm down there.

This afternoon we had a beautiful time, we cooked out and and hung out and enjoyed the weather with Mike's parents, Adrian, Brooke and Mackenzie.  The new property is perfect for having people over and I can't wait until we are there permanently.

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. Ephesians 3:16-18

It has been a blessed week as always! Friday, Chris and Jake left for Boy Scout camp.  They won first place in Campsite Inspection, Tug of War and Cobbler Cook-off. I'm so glad the weather was great for them!

On Saturday, Mike, Taylor and I had a lovely drive to Elizabethtown, IN where I sang at Cornerstone Baptist Church. The folks there were so special, it was truly a blessing to worship with them. I'm grateful for the opportunity to go back again in October.

Sunday morning I sang at Sugar Creek Baptist Church. It was a beautiful little church out in the country. It sat up on a little hill on a beautiful peace of property.  I don't think there was a cloud in the sky when we arrived. I felt such abundance in that moment. There are some great people there! I pray that God will continue to bless Pastor Carl Coffey in his ministry there.

And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away. Revelation 21:4

There is going to be a Johnson County Fair Gospel Tent benefit sing on May 11 at Meridian Woods Baptist Church.  Food's at 6:00 p.m. and the singing begins at 7:00 p.m. The Riddells will be there and I've been asked to sing.  One more group is being finalized. This should be an awesome evening! PLEASE COME IF YOU CAN, AND INVITE EVERYONE YOU KNOW!! The Gospel Tent is a fantastic ministry that reaches many people by meeting them where they are, not waiting for them to enter the church doors.  We are praying that many people will come to know Christ through the fair this year.

I recently came across this quote which I heard about ten years ago, and loved!

When I met Christ, I felt that I had swallowed sunshine. - E. Stanley Jones

Isn't that so true?  I'm thankful for the joy God brings into our lives when we trust him.

Mike had jury duty yesterday and today.  I think it was refreshing for him to be doing something different. He said it was neat to be a part of the process and that's what I've heard from other people too. I've been called before but never selected.

Chris's new glasses are in and we have to pick them up tomorrow. He's ready!  It's been two years since he's gotten a new prescription. His eyes have gotten much better.

Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5

This morning we were at Eternal Life Baptist Church.  A dear old friend of ours, Charlie Genter sang.  It was so great to be him and his beautiful wife Christine. I hadn't heard Charlie sing for several years. The biggest blessing however, was when a new believer was baptized.  It is a wonderful thing to see the radiance of someone who has just come to the Lord.

Behold, I send an Angel before you to keep you in the way and to bring you into the place which I have prepared. Exodus 23:20

I've been thinking this morning how I'm 7 days from my 12th birthday. In some ways I've come so far and in other ways I have so far yet to go. 2 Corinthians 9:8 says And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. That's a pretty powerful scripture.   I'm amazed that God won't waste one second of our lives, even if we feel we have. I don't want to regret anything when I stand before my Lord.

Easter always feels more like New Year's Day to me.  It makes me want to turn over a new leaf.  It makes me what to recommit everything I am. It makes me so thankful that the hope I have was given by our creator for a wretched sinner such as I. How can I ever repay the Father for such love? May I spend my life trying!

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.  He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.  He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.  Isaiah 40:28-29

Ken Cornelius, Curtis Haywood and I have been saying for a very long time we were going to get together and practice a few songs. We finally got together on Monday.  Wow! I do love these guys, I think it's already sounding pretty good. We'll be singing three songs in June, and they've been kind enough to give me the lead part on all the songs so they won't be too much of a challenge.

Tuesday evening's IGMA meeting was awesome. We had some members there who hadn't been to a meeting in a long time. Ray Seaman is doing a great job as district president.  He's added several things such as a devotion time and cards to sick members that I think is so important. I believe the IGMA is getting ready to explode. Everyone is going to want to be a part of the opportunities that are being open to us. I can't believe that Ray has arranged for Dr. Charles Novell to come to our Day of Enrichment to do some vocal coaching and one on one instruction with members.  That's exciting.

Last night Mike set up the sound for Jeff VanWinkle's concert at Southeastern Christian Fellowship. I'm so proud of Jeff, he really did a great job. This guy has an amazing voice, powerful and smooth. I can't wait to see the way's God uses his talent.

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 

I took a continuing education course this week over communication, I really enjoyed it. We took a communication style inventory, and it was interesting to see where I fell and what my strengths and weaknesses are. 

Well, Mike and I are both on vacation for the next week. Woooo Hooooo!  We are not going anywhere but we're going to focus on getting some things moving forward at our other house.  I can't wait to see how much we get knocked out this week!  We are really looking for some used kitchen cabinets.  We have to find the right thing before we can finalize the kitchen layout. Once the kitchen and plumbing is done, things should move pretty quickly.

When we get moved down there, we are going to have a big open house party ... with great food and lots of gospel music. We may even set our big tent on the property, and invite all the neighbors. 

But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior. Titus 3:4-6

Our God will not give us more than we can handle .... but HE WILL make a way .... I am repeating this to myself right now.  I can't share specifics of a major event in our lives right now, but PLEASE pray for me and my family.  We are accepting a new and exciting challenge and know that its not going to be easy, but our God is able to sustain us and guide us when we put our trust in Him. And, we need him now more than ever.

Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. Daniel 12:3

My goodness, I've been so busy.  Taylor had a Jazz Band concert this week.  I'm not sure if I already bragged that she is the only flute in the jazz band, but she did a great job and looked beautiful. Her concert was tied in with the 7th grade band so we also got to hear our nephew Jacob. He plays clarinet.

We had the biggest IGMA meeting we've had since I joined. Praise God!  I'm really excited about the Day of Enrichment this year.  We hope to get some group and individual vocal coaching sessions set up, as well as, some songwriting workshops ... man it couldn't get better than that!  I hope people who've been on the fence about joining the IGMA will begin to see what a wonderful resource it is and give it a try.  I know that I still have so much to learn about music - and I can't wait!

Last Sunday, we were back in Alexandria. Steve went with us and we did the song I wrote Come to the Lord live. It was pretty awesome. Aren't you glad we we can't out give God? He's so faithful! Please pray for Deanie and Johnny who own the Lighhouse Cafe. I believe that they are at a point where they are going to have to really step out in faith to see God do some thing big through this place. They have a great group of people there for their Sunday church service and it was a joy to be with them.

I have a whole list of things to get done today, but one of the things I get the opportunity to do this year, is to begin working on getting the spots for the Johnson County Fair Gospel Tent filled.  Boy, we have a great list of folks to work with. More good solid names than we have spots, so it will be fun to see how availability works out and what kind of mix we get for each night. We need three groups plus a house band for each night.

He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8

Yesterday, we had a young mother murdered a few houses away from us.  She was shot and killed while holding her 17 month old daughter during a robbery.  The police say that there were 2-3 people involved. I didn't know the family but it's such a tragedy that human life holds no value to many people in this world.

As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts higher than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:9

Friday night, we heard a group called the Gospel Heirs from Illinois, as well as, a lady with a great spirit and beautiful voice, Janine Mahalick also from Illinois.

On Sunday, Chris's scout troop led a flag ceremony at the start of the service at Valley Mills Christian Church.  Chris also had to give a speech about the history of the Boy Scouts and how it is built on faith. He did a fabulous job! He has a nice strong voice. He was so nervous.

I've spent the weekend doing a lot of cleaning and reorganizing. We took several boxes of things to the new house last night.

"They shall be Mine," says the Lord of hosts, "on the day that I make them My jewels. And I will spare them As a man spares his own son who serves him." Malachi 4:17

Taylor went to her friend Haley's house to spend the night and Chris and Jake went to grandma and grandpa's house.  We just weren't sure if it could be fixed tonight.  Anyway, they are out of school again tomorrow for a teacher work day ... after all the snow days this week, it's kind of a shame they didn't use this as one of the make up days they will tack on to the end of the year!

Last Sunday evening, I got to sing and encourage the people at Light of Hope church. I really love them, they are like family to me. The church is very small right now, but I believe that God is going to bless and grow them.  They are always doing things for others, sometimes more than bigger churches with more resources.  I know that much of what they do involves sacrificial giving. I thank God for people like them.  Please lift this small church and it's Pastor, Rodney Fee, up in your prayers.

Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them.  Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Matthew 6:1

God provided a very cool opportunity to go and speak and sing to a Mother/Daughter bible study group this week. I had a wonderful time and was encouraged by their desire to help others. They are "adopting" the Guardian's Home this year. The girls all fourth graders, listened intently, praised God and sang along.  It was great to meet such a wonderful group of young people.

Steve and I practiced last night. We've got a little work to do, but we had some really great conversation and when he left I felt grateful that he was my friend and was wiling to work with me on this.

Tonight we had a great time and saw many friends at the Emerson Ave. Church of Christ.  Bill and Betty Hess organize this great monthly singing. We haven't been able to go for the past several months, its really growing!! I'm sure its in large part to the sweet atmosphere and loving spirit you feel there.  Everyone that sang on open mic did a great job!

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13

God has been moving in more ways than I can explain here, but I my heart is full because of Him.  I love to see Him work in people. I love to see the changes that only God can make in lives. We serve and amazing God!

Steve Brydges is going to try to start playing a little bit of keyboards for me.  We have our first practice on Friday.  I feel so good about taking this step which will allow me more flexibility when I'm singing. I can't wait to see how the Holy Spirit will lead!

And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave - just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. Matthew 20:27-28

Of course, our city's beloved Colts won the Super Bowl tonight! I'm so proud that both Jim Irsay and Tony Dungy gave glory to God when they were accepting the trophy. This team is a great representation of the faith that exists in our city.

Yesterday we met with the Johnson County Fair Gospel Tent committee.  We are going to help as we are able with this event in July. I hope this year even more people come to know the Lord through this ministry.

Last night I sang at the Lighthouse Cafe in Alexandria.  I met some beautiful people and had a really good time. It was a long trek and a cold night, but God blessed and I'm thankful to have signed my name on the wall! You've got to go there to see what I mean! It's beautiful J

Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you. Psalm 9:10

My Heavenly Father has given me more blessings than I can count. How can I ever praise him enough?  How can I ever thank him for turning my hardships into blessings? For turning my valley's into mountains?

Is anything too hard for the Lord? Genesis 18:14

Chris went to Winter Camporee this weekend. On Saturday, Mike, Taylor and I took Mike's parents to the Myers Dinner Theatre for the showing of Forever Plaid. It was a great musical drama full of 50's songs. The food was delicious. It was nice to spend the evening with them doing something a little out of the ordinary. It was so cool to see them light up with memories and hear them singing along. I'm glad we were able to do this with them.

Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him. Job 13:15

I'm thankful I work for a place that allows me to have a flexible schedule to accommodate my singing engagements! I had to leave early today in order to get to North Vernon. I was featured at the First Assembly of God Coffee House. The people there were so friendly and wonderful. And, I had a special surprise from my sweet friend, Marva Watkins, who showed up to support me!

For with the Lord is unfailing love and with Him is full redemption.  Psalm 130:7

After a party with family and friends, we took Chris and a few friends to see Dejavu with Denzel Washington. It was good! We stopped for shakes at the Cold Stone Creamery afterward. I thoroughly enjoyed the Pineapple Cheesecake shake that I ordered.

Saturday was an awesome time at Murray Marketplace.  We got there before 4:00 to get everything set up. The singing started at 6:00. So many friends came that I hadn't seen in awhile.  It felt good to be able to spend the evening with them all.  Leroy Driscoll and Gary Shepard both sang also.  They both did a nice job. Mike had the sound set perfect. I met a lady who recently lost her husband there. She sings also and her husband was her sound man.  She told me how lost she is without him.  I can't imagine.  So much of what I'm able to do is because of the behind the scenes work of my sweet husband. I'm thankful God sent him to me.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27

The IGMA meeting was wonderful this week.  I've learned so much already about the opportunities that are available in our city to sing from being the Indy district events chair. I think I'm a little bit too excited about this role though ... Beth Mexin said I just about sent her into information overload.

I got a call last night that my uncle, David Ward, was hospitalized for chest pains. They weren't sure if he had an actual heart attack at that point, but should know more today.  My maternal grandmother had 13 kids!!!! David is the baby. He's approaching 50. David's daughter, Heather, is pregnant and due anytime. Please pray for this family.

It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. Lamentations 3:22-24

We just hung out at home for New Year's Eve. Taylor's friend Haley spent the night last night.  Jake stayed all night with Chris. At midnight Mike set off a box of colorful fireworks. He made us delicious homemade Frappicinos!

We went to a wonderful service at Charity Tabernacle on Sunday. I can't say enough about how amazing and spirit filled the music was. I believe the message was truly anointed. It inspired me to want to dig deeper, not just keep the status quo. 

Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. Ephesians 5:17-21

I've been productive by focusing a bit on planning ministry opportunities for 2007 for both myself and the IGMA. When I look back at 2006 I can hardly believe all God's done.  I can't wait to see what His mighty hand will do in 2007!!

Also, I can't believe I made it a whole year, keeping this journal...I have never tried to keep a journal before. It's neat to be able to look back and reminisce on the things that have happened. I considered for a moment not continuing the journal next year, but I've learned from several people this week how much they appreciate knowing what's happening in my life. So, with that said - I will continue!

I heard from my friend Stephanie Stewart that her song Jesus Knows has made it to number 18 in the National Country Gospel charts. WAY TO GO STEPHANIE!  Woo Hoo! I know God is blessing Stephanie's ministry because of her faithfulness to Him.  She's had so many opportunities in Nashville and with various agencies.  The thing I love about her is her discernment for the things God would have her do.  She's never blinded by the opportunity, but focused on the Lord's will. She's turned down opportunities that sounded great on the surface, but she could tell there was no depth. She inspires me, and I'm thankful God brought her into my life.

Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him. But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all; And charged them that they should not make him known Matthew 12:14-16

1. I took Chris and Taylor to work with me on Friday.  Wow ... I've got some great kids! I of course already knew that, but I was so impressed with their work ethic. The quality and amount of work they completed was more than I imagined could have been accomplished. Praise God!

2. My mom called me yesterday.  We talked for a long time. She's doing ok, but needs everyone's prayers that she'll find another job. It was so good to hear her voice.  I got a letter from her about a week ago, so I sent her flowers. She's using a prepaid cell phone and has a 14 day card. I'm going to see about getting her another card. I had to break the news to her that my uncle Bill who lived in Virginia passed away on Wednesday. He's had a long battle with cancer.

We are already for Christmas.  I do love this time of year. A time to remember that a baby came to save us! A time to love and appreciate family.

And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book, but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name. John 20:30-31

We're not quite ready for Christmas, but we are getting close now.

Friday night I was featured at Pearson's Barn. I invited Jeff VanWinkle to sing a few songs in the middle of my set. Wow! This guy can SING! And, what a funny guy - he's a joy to be around.  I know God is going to use him as he grows in his ministry.

Saturday morning some of us from the IGMA went to WIBC radio to sing for the Salvation Army's radiothon. That was a fun opportunity.  We may do something more to benefit the Salvation Army next year.

Saturday afternoon I got the opportunity to sing at Expressions Costume Jewelry's Customer Appreciation event.  This store is near the corner of 82nd and Allisonville Rd. I am in heaven in there!! Wow, they have some great jewelry for very low prices.  I purchased some items for Christmas.  But, it will definitely be worth a drive back up there to stock up! The owners are such sweet and generous people.

Mike sent me this crazy link ... I'm an elf, check it out! http://www.elfyourself.com/?userid=4df430fdcec58ad61a749ceG06121618

Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. But go and learn what this means:  I desire mercy and not sacrifice. For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.  Matthew 9:12-13

Yesterday was full of blessings. Mike, Taylor and I were able to be a part of the Special Olympics dinner held at Meridian Woods. The people were great!! Mike played Santa, which all ages loved. Taylor was a reindeer, complete with red nose and freckles. This group sang karaoke and loved it so much. It was truly a joy to watch them.

Also, last night I was privileged to be a part of the Trinity's Promise and Friends Christmas concert at the Jammin' Java Coffee House. What a cool place! It would be neat to own a place like this and be able to encourage gospel music and meet so many people.

Today, the service was wonderful! Pastor Hylton did a great job of really making you think about where you are in your relationship with Christ. I know that I have a lot of work to do, I'm so easily distracted by the things of this world. Too much of my time is spent on things that in the end really won't matter. It's easy to say "keep your eyes on the Lord", but much harder to put into practice.

Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the Lord. Let us lift up our heart with our hands unto God in the heavens. Lamentations 3:40-41

Mike has committed to play Santa at two different places on Saturday. I'm praying either he feels well enough to do it, or the Lord will send another willing heart. We have a great suit already!

Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; Have mercy on me, and hear my prayer. Psalm 4:1

Chris, Taylor, Taylor's friend Hallie and I went to IGMA's Christmas party last night at Third Phase.  The food was wonderful, the company was great, and the residents there were just delightful.  I really didn't feel like going, I felt so drained but once we arrived I was so glad I made myself go. I love all the people in IGMA, and I needed to get my mind on something else for awhile.  We did have special prayer for Mike and I sat in for him, others gathered around and laid hands on me and prayed for him.

From the rising of the sun to its going down the Lord's name is to be praised. Psalm 113:3

After spending the entire day at the hospital getting more tests, we've learned what's causing the pain isn't with Mike's gallbladder. He did have elevated levels of bilirubin and an elevated white blood count. They want to run a more elaborate test on him to try to determine what's causing the pain.  This test will actually track the flow of his bile, but they can't get him in for this until Wednesday, and won't have the results back before Friday. They gave him another prescription and told him not to take what they gave him yesterday. I feel so frustrated right now.  Mike's in so much pain.  It looks like he will be for awhile longer. I just want someone to help him. Please pray for all of us but especially Mike!

Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? Matthew 6:31

I appreciate so much your prayers for Mike.  We spent last evening back out at the hospital. His back pain has moved into his abdomen and nothing is bringing relief. They ran a myriad of tests on him, and finally determined that it's probably his gallbladder. He has to see a specialist at St. Francis Mooresville at 9:00.  I don't know how fast they will move with surgery, I just want them to get that thing out! I can't stand to see him in so much pain.

If you'd like to send a card/note just send it to our home at:

Mike Gault

3241 Collier St.

Indianapolis, IN  46221 or via email at:

mikegault@comcast.net

And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.  Revelations 21:4

I talked with Lisa Brock today, she is interested in joining the IGMA.  She'll make a great addition! I'm really looking forward to seeing this organization explode.  I'm on a recruiting mission! I'd appreciate any leads for groups, soloists, musicians, churches, others in the music industry that may want to be a part of this awesome group. God is really beginning to open up some great connections and provide opportunities for members to serve him with their talents.

Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Matthew 18:18.

When we get home from church today, we are going to put up the Christmas tree. I can't believe it's already that time of year.  This has been an amazing year that gone too fast.

Last night, Rick Clayton came by and we worked on several songs. We'll be singing together at Cathedral of Prayer in January.

I've invited IGMA's newest male soloist, Jeff VanWinkle, to come sing a few songs in the middle of my set at the Barn on December 15.  Please pray we'll have no snow that night so he can make it. Jeff is just beginning to get out there and show the world the magnificent voice God has given him.

For I consider the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Romans 8:15

The Lord, Jesus Christ - Salvation - family: children who are healthy, compassionate and smart, a husband who is faithful and loving - parents who do all they can for their children - brothers and sisters - the many extended family who bless us every day - babies and little tikes - God's word - Wonderful friends - gospel music - a home - freedom - a good job - talents - the Lord's provisions - Our dog Jewel - living in America - my health - smiles - playing games - the right to vote - scented candles - soldiers - forgiveness - the seasons - technology - teachers - covers on a cold morning - doctors - nurses - mercy - the Holy Spirit - police officers - fire fighters - hope - sunlight - mocha cappuccino - fellow believers - clouds - preachers - a car that runs - books - laughter - answered prayers - holidays & weekends - faith - the beautiful world that God created for all of us --- and the list goes on and on.

My brother-in-law, Matt, gave me a newer version of Microsoft Front Page.  I'd love people to let me know if they like the new layout and background on the website.

Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me. And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. John 11:41-43

Last night was so much fun! We got to get dressed up, have a delicious dinner and spend the evening being lifted up by dear friends at the Annual IGMA Awards banquet. If you've never been to the Myers Dinner Theater I highly recommend it!! Oh my gosh, everything there is homemade. Yummy! My favorite things were the broccoli salad and the chicken pot pie - Yes! Homemade chicken pot pie!

I'm thankful to have received the award for 2007 Favorite Female Soloist. The award is just beautiful. It means a lot to receive the support of your peers. Others who received honors were:

• Favorite Group - His Voice Through Us
• Favorite Trio - The Wolfe Family
• Favorite Duet - Trinity's Promise
• Favorite Instrumentalist - Amos Brown
• Original Song of the Year - Lori Rigdon
• Favorite Male Soloist - John Wolfe
• Hall of Fame Award - Jane Wertz
• Don Moon Award - Marva Watkins

We weren't sure if we would make it, we had to pull the car over several times on the way there and back from losing antifreeze and the car overheating. 

Today, Mike discovered that the antifreeze is leaking into the oil, and this will mean a major repair.  Probably $1,000 or more. We really can't afford this. The two house payments and money we've sank into the new house, we just don't have any extra left.  I know that God will provide and work everything out. But, it is frustrating. This is going to be a very busy week for me at work with our quarterly board meeting and annual luncheon. Now I'll have to rely on Mike to get me back and forth until we can afford to get the car fixed. Mike also has a few days he's supposed to work at outlying stores which means I may have to get dropped off extremely early.  Yuck!

Please remember our family in your prayers this week!

Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Proverbs 30:5

I'm excited about tomorrow's IGMA award's banquet.  I've never been to Myers Dinner Theater in Hillsboro, IN.  I can't wait to see it because I may get the opportunity to sing there in 2007 with my dear friends Praise the Lord Quartet.

Tuesday night, the IGMA meeting was awesome.  We got the opportunity to hear song from several prospective members: Brothers Quartet, Jeff Van Winkle, and Steve Brydges.

And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. He hath showed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy Luke 1:46-54 (Mary's Song)

Beloved , now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. 1 John 3:2

Rick and Sharon Clayton, Steve and Andrea Brydges and Debbie Spears all came and sat with us.  There were many other friends there, and we had a wonderful time praising God together.

It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the LORD, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the LORD; 2 Chronicles 5:13

Ms. Gaston, a choir teacher in Decatur Township was there.  She may have me come in and sing for her class and share my story. That would be a blessing! I hope it works out.

I found a new song to sing, it's by Babbie Mason and it's called Isn't That Just Like God to sing. It's great! I'm really itching to record a new project. Please pray that God will work it all out.

On Saturday Evening we went and heard a group called Desert Reign.  They were great! That night God really began penetrating the heart of a friend who ended up accepting Christ Tuesday night!!!! Way to go, Ricky! I praise God for him, and I know that God is going to use him in a mighty way. 

It's been a challenging yet inspiring week for both Mike and I.  Please pray that we'll be able to keep our eyes on the Lord and trust in Him to get us through this busy season.

And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt. Mark 14:36

Wednesday, I got the opportunity to sing at a new coffee house at Southeastern Christian Fellowship. These people are so sweet.  Stella Hanley does a wonderful job of coordinating this, and she has lots of hands pitching in to help. They have a great atmosphere!  I'm back over there on 1/17/07.  If you like to sing, join us for open mic at 6:00, they need more open mic singers!

Friday, I was asked to emcee at Pearson's Bluegrass Acres.  The highlight of the night for me was when a wonderful singer/guitar  player named Arthur Murray got up and sang a couple songs, he just cut loose and gave everything he had for the Lord.  MARVELOUS!!!! I love to hear this guy sing, he's really got soul !   The Lively Stones were featured and did a great job as usual. 

This morning, I was truly blessed with the chance to sing at Trinity Community Church in Daleville, IN. This was an awesome experience!  The people were so friendly. They have a lot of people pitching in to spread out the load, great music , a beautiful building and a sweet, sweet spirit.  Mike did a wonderful job with the sound as always, and Chris is becoming a pro at running PowerPoint for me.  I worked with Taylor today on setting up and tearing down the product table.  That's her new assignment.  I'm thankful to have so many hands willing to pitch in for me. I may get the opportunity to sing in Michigan and Ohio, from people I met there today who said they'd be in contact.  That would be terrific!

But now, O Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand. Isaiah 64:8

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:1

He is your praise, and He is your God, who has done for you these great and awesome things which your eyes have seen. Deuteronomy 10:21

We got all the equipment loaded back into Mike's truck after the festival, and Steve followed us over to Papa Carl's house for his annual gathering. There were many friends there such as: Barbara & Beth Mexin, Paul & Trae McQueen, Rick & Ricky Clayton and Pauline Shipley. There were lots of others there too.  Including Papa Carl's children and their families. We stayed until around 9:30 keeping warm around the fire and singing songs.

Today, Mike picked up Chris from scout camp at Bradford Woods.  Chris received a nice knife for winning the Euchre tournament and he got to be a part of the ceremony and dress as an Indian. Taylor had another tournament game.  It is a double elimination tournament.  They haven't lost yet.  Today they won 3-1 in over time.

And Elijah came to all the people, and said, "How long will you falter between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, fallow him." But the people answered him not a word. 1 Kings 18: 21

Mike took a vacation from Kroger this week, and has been working hard on our new house.  He has a long way to go, but made some significant headway this week. I can't wait for it to be finished. Being down there in the evenings is so peaceful.  It will be great to experience that every day. We want to have an awesome gathering of friends, cook out and gospel music after we get moved in.  It will be so much fun.

He whose ear listens to the life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise. Proverbs 15:31

Tuesday evening, the IGMA meeting was great.  All the new officers were elected for the Indy district. I am going to serve as the Special Events Chair for the Indy District. Woo Hoo! I'm not even sure yet what we'll do, but I know that we'll do it right and have fun. J

Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's. For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I shall not be ashamed - 2 Corinthians 10:7-8

It's been four years today since my precious sister-in-law, Tracy, went to be with the Lord.  It's hard to believe it's been that long. We all miss her so much and are different because of the impact her sweet spirit had on each one.

And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. Luke 17:20-21

I have to say for me the highlight of the evening was a duet by Mike and George Rosas with Steve Brydges on keyboard. They did Power in the Blood and on the last verse George sang in Spanish while Mike sang in English.  It was very cool.

We had so much fun talking and playing around with George and Linda and Steve in the parking lot for an hour afterward. They are great friends.  Please lift Linda and George up in prayer, they are approaching the anniversary of their son's death at the end of October. It's a mentally draining, difficult time for them.

Today, I got the opportunity to sing at Marwood Baptist Church.  Chris did an excellent job running the power point slides for me today. There aren't many people left from the years we went to Marwood, but it was so good to see the ones who are still there.  To my surprise, several people from Bridgeport Central Baptist Church came in.  It was a good to see them all and it turned out to be a blessed day.

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.  Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, And sinners shall be converted to You. Psalm 51:10-13

We went to the Guardian's Home Sunday night and Steve Brydges went with us.  Steve has been a good friend to us.  He's really been there for Mike lately. I'm excited to see what God is going to do in Steve's life.  He is a talented musician and singer.

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. 1 John 2 1-2

Here's the list of awesome performers from Saturday's event: Mike Pender, Stephanie Stewart, Karl Hinkle, Clarke Family Singers, Trinity's Promise, Beth Mexin, Rick Clayton, Leroy Driscol, The Dickerson Family, Praise the Lord Quartet, The Jubilation Singers, The White Family Singers, The Jesus Band and myself. Everyone did a fabulous job and Mike had the sound perfect!  The Lord blessed with incredible weather, it really couldn't have been a better day.

One little guy around 8 or 9 years old told me "You sing good, You killed it" Bless his heart! That's the first time I've heard that expression, but he was so excited and sweet. 

For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid which is Jesus Christ.  Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each one's work will become clear for the Day will declare it, but because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work of what sort it is.  If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will has built on it endures, he will received a reward. 1 Corinthians 4:11-14

My surgery went well, yesterday. Everything was just extremely delayed. I had to be there at 8:45, and they ran some blood and urine tests and got me all ready for my 10:45 surgery... then I had my patience tested. At 10:30 the nurse came in and said they got into some unexpected stuff in the surgery in front of me, and now everything is backed up by an hour and fifteen minutes.  Ok, that wasn't great, but I could live with it...but, that didn't happen either.  It ended up being 1:30 before they took me back. If you know me you'll know laying in the bed in the middle of the day for that long is torture. I need to be moving and doing something.  Recovery also was also delayed. I think they would have just let me sleep there if I hadn't started driving them crazy!! Recovery was supposed to take an hour to an hour and a half and it ended up taking four I think some of the delay was due to the fact that when they had me eat a cracker I got sick to my stomach almost immediately. So, they gave me three more shots and put me back to sleep. 

I am grateful however, that my delay wasn't during my surgery.  I'm sure the family of the person who was in so much longer than expected was anxious and worried.  And, at least I wasn't alone.  Mike and Linda stayed with me the whole time and Mike's mom Joyce and his aunt Sandy came for awhile too. I didn't complain too much!  I think the wait was driving Linda more crazy than me.  She kept asking the nurse if her and Mike could get the dinner menu. She's so funny.

Tuesday evening I went to the funeral of a young man killed in a car accident.  He was 37 years old. His parents Tom and Marion Pritchett are dear friends who sing in a group called the Lively Stones. This is very difficult time for them.

Dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name.... you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one. 1 John 2:12-14

Mike and Chris went to a father/son scout camp at Bradford Woods. I'm sure they are having a great time. I can't wait to hear about some of the crazy things they had to do ... they had to come up with their own song and skit and cook all their own food with no utensils. 

Friday night, I got to sing at Bluegrass Acres - Gospel music night. It was great.  I met a lot of new people. The spirit was wonderful, and the house band was awesome. Beth Mexin, George Pender, Rick and Sharon Clayton and my cousin Michelle and her husband Greg all came out to support me.  It was great to have them there, especially since Mike couldn't come.

Tonight Linda Rosas called and invited me and Taylor to come out and play Phase 10 at Emerson Ave Church of God.  The Foundation Singers and some of their friends get together and play around with music. In Phase 10, you want to have the lowest score, and when we finally called it quits due to time, I had the lowest score!  (But we were only on Phase 7) That game is fun, it just takes a long time.

Taylor and I had been running around all day and I was tired.  I just wanted to do laundry and watch TV. But, I'm glad Linda called and I'm glad we went.  I was struck during the game with how beautiful Taylor is. I love her smile!!!

For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh. Luke 6:44-45

Also, a dear friend, Becky Haywood who has been battling breast cancer is scheduled for a mastectomy on September 7.  Her spirit through this trial has been remarkable. I thank God for the encouragement she's found in the opportunities to witness about how He's carrying her through this.

I learned at BelAire Park last weekend that another friend who used to be one of my best volunteers at Stephen Decatur Elementary school, Loretta Matesick, was diagnosed with breast cancer.  She is currently undergoing chemo.

I will be having an outpatient surgery on September 6.

I'd appreciate any prayers for all the needs listed above.

For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.  Philippians 1:19-20

Taylor had a soccer game yesterday and won 2-0 even though they had no subs. So now their record is 1 tie 1 win! Taylor is playing very well this year.

This morning God provided the opportunity for me to sing at Capital Christian Center. It was a blessing to worship with Pastor Bill Hyde and his family.  They do a wonderful job there. They have an awesome facility and are working hard to fill it up.

They are starting a Friday night "Revival" style meeting at 7:00 and have lots of awesome groups already scheduled to be a part of this.

But now, O LORD, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand. Isaiah 64:8

Mike went and sat up our tent for their revival last Friday night. He'll have to go back and take it down after this weekend. The guys from Meridian Woods are willing to help Mike put the tent up for the Bethany Christian Church event on September 16. This is such a blessing for Mike. It only took them 2 1/2 hours to get it up this week.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  Hebrews 11:1

All the groups sounded amazing.  I met a lady who worked in the infirmary in in the Guardian's Home for years. She ended up adopting 2 girls from there. She had her grandchildren from one of the girls with her. Several people seemed interested in having me come to their church and sing.

Its amazing to think how far God's brought me this year. Please pray that He will continue to bless and enlarge my ministry. I want to be used by God. I know if we are willing, surely God is able!

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. Ezekiel 36:26

Mike, his dad, Adrian and Chris are going to a race in Kentucky this coming weekend.  I love how the guys in this family take trips together. I believe their bond is tight because of it.  Please pray for their safety during the trip.

Consider the work of God; for who can make straight what He has mad crooked? In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: Surely God has appointed the one as well as the other. Ecclesiastes 7:13-14

Well I broke down and went to the license branch yesterday.  I just think something is very wrong about the state making your driver's license expire on your birthday. I'm always a procrastinator when it comes to going to that place...but the thought of sitting in there on my birthday got me in gear yesterday.

Yesterday, Chris and Jake went to Mike's dad's trailer on Lake Monroe and helped him cut grass. They had a wonderful time and played several games of croquet.  They also took a couple shots on the 410 at a Gatorade bottle. I'm glad that my kids are able to have close relationships with Mike's side of the family. I know they'll always treasure the experiences they've had with them.

Things went great last night. We had a good crowd considering so many were gone to Marion.  There was lots of live music, which was great! Les Elkins, Steve Allen and Steve Bridges did a great job of backing up anyone who needed music.

Mike is working at the race track today, and this evening we have a special Court of Honor for Boy Scouts.  I'm so proud of all Chris has accomplished through scouts.  He has learned so much and matured in so many ways through his experiences. I can't wait to see what awards he gets this time.

O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his mercy endureth forever. 1 Chronicles 16:34

Mike and I are running sound and introductions at the Jubliee Friday Night Coffee House tomorrow. I'm not sure what kind of crowd we'll have because a large group went to Marion, IN for the Northern Gospel Singing Convention. I hope they all have a wonderful weekend.

Then Peter opened this mouth, and said, of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.  Acts 10:34-35

Beth Mexin and I got together to practice Another Time and Another Place. It went pretty well, we are very close to being ready to sing it at one of the coffee houses. That will be fun.

Mike is on vacation this week, he hoped to get some things done at the new house the first part of the week and he works at the race track over the weekend.  I'm not sure how much he'll be able to get accomplished in this heat.  I'm just praying that God will bless and multiply his efforts. Mike said he may just work there nights.

I found out tonight that my uncle Bill Boggs is nearing the end of a long battle with cancer. My aunts Shirley and Marsha are going to travel to Virginia to be with my aunt Helen. I'm glad they are able to go and provide support to her during this time.

Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled. Hebrews 12:14-15

Tuesday: I was featured at the Beech Grove Worship Center. Mike's parents came. All the open mic singers were excellent. There were several people there who had never heard me in concert. I really enjoyed talking to folks afterward.

Wednesday: I sang at the Johnson County Fair with the Foundation Singers, In His Love, Leroy Driscoll and Mike Pender. It was hot, but definitely a great time. My cousin, Michelle, and her friend, Jodi, came to hear me sing. it was so great to see her. She looks just the same as she did when she was a kid.

Thursday: Taylor had her first soccer practice of the season.  Her coach is great and she knows several kids on the team.  I think it is going to be a good year!

Friday: Taylor and I went to Jubilee. They had The Rudds featured there.  I really enjoyed them. My little friends Isaac and Hope sat with me and drew me great pictures for my refrigerator.

Saturday: We went to a reunion in Spencer, IN for my moms side of the family. It was soooo nice to see so many people that I haven't seen in 20-30 years. I wish my mom could have went, she couldn't get the day off work. Please pray for my family and I: that God will continue to make opportunities for us to get to know each other and for me to be a witness to them. I gave away many of my CD's there.

I sang at the Going Home cafe with the Lively Stones. It is a wonderful place and we received a tremendous blessing from being there. I secured several bookings and met a wonderful young girl, who is currently in foster care and has been through many of the same things I've been through. I got the opportunity to counsel her and pray with her at the end of the night.

Today, I talked to my mom for an hour and a half on the phone this morning.  It was really nice to hear from her.  Please pray for her.  She is having some problems with her sciatic nerve and had to get a shot from the doctor this week.

Mike's sister Terry had a great birthday party for Mike's dad in Fillmore, IN.  Her house and yard really look great.  It was quite a feast!

I went to hear the Palmer Sisters at Mt. Calvary tonight.  They were filled with the spirit, and by the end of the night the alter was packed with youth, crying out for God to use them. That is great to see!

For I know that my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth; and after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God Job 25-26

Trinity's Promise came and sang. These girls are so sweet.  It is a joy to see them stepping out of their comfort zone to glorify God. I can't wait for their next CD, because Lori Rigdon wrote a great song.  I think it's called Lord, Change Me.

Chris and Jacob are leaving for camp Ransburg today.  They will be gone until next Saturday. This is Jake's first full week away at camp. He'll be fine, but it is going to be an extremely hot week for them to be stuck outdoors 24 hrs a day.

I got a call this week from a pastor in Daleville, IN. They want me to come and do a concert for their morning service in October. I'm excited that God has opened up this opportunity to go and share what he's done in my life with a brand new bunch of people.

For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone. Psalm 91:11-12

Last night Chris, Taylor, Jacob and I went to see Ellen Adney at the Beech Grove Worship Center.  She did a great job as always.  There has been some concern that the Worship Center may cease having a coffee house in September. However, last night they shared that the generosity and assistance of patrons has been overwhelming, and they believe that the coffee house will continue.

It was a long day for the kids.  I got them up and took them to work with me.  They helped assemble 600 My Riley Story packets. Then, I took them over to Gameworks in Circle Centre Mall.  We learned on Taylor's birthday they have $10 Tuesday. They have been wanting to go back ever since. I'm glad it worked out.

Mike's sister Diane is taking the kids to Holiday World tomorrow.  They are going to stay the night and come home late on Friday. I know they will have a blast!  I'm so thankful that Mike has such a great family.

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

I was surprised (and blessed) to receive an email from my cousin Michelle today.  I was probably in 2nd or 3rd grade the last time I remember seeing her.  She lives in Bloomington. I can't wait to see her and hear about all the Lord has been doing in her life.

We visited Trinity Southern Baptist Church this morning.  Our friend Rick Moreland had a concert there.  We saw a lot of old friends, and Rick did a great job. Their youth and several adults are preparing to leave on a mission trip to Greece this week.  What an incredible experience for them. 

The Lord redeems the soul of His servants, and none of those who trust in Him shall be condemned. Psalm 34:22

We've had a busy week, on the Fourth of July we went down to Martinsville for their annual concert and fireworks show. Most years we end up going there. Its a nice relaxing time. The Lions Club sponsors it, and has a big stage, and lots of food vendors.  There is a clearing area that people gather in at the base of a big hill where the fireworks are shot from.

We've gotten a bit farther along on the new house this past week.  We still have a long way to go, but things are going to begin to move quickly. I can't wait to get it done and be able to move in! I'm praying that God will sustain us financially through this time, until we can get our current house on the market and sold. I know that he will and for that I praise Him.

Tonight we were blessed to spend the evening with our dear friends Pat and Ted Maple. They invited about 30 people over for a cook out. We had so much fun it was hard to leave. Pat is truly and inspiration to me.  I hope someday I can exude as much joy and love for the Lord and others as she does. Monday is their 57th wedding anniversary, Praise God!

Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes before you.  He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.  Deuteronomy 31:8

Linda Rosas uncle passed away this morning.  She told a wonderful story about how he held on until his "prodigal son" made it to the hospital. His first question to everyone that came to visit him was "Are you ready?" He got to spend the last several hours alone with his son. Linda is certain he didn't leave without sharing the plan of salvation.

Saturday evening I am singing at the Brooklyn Church of the Nazarene. Mike will be at the race track all day, so it will be a rush to get there. I met these people and got the booking last New Year's Eve when I went to hear Leroy Driscoll sing there. He's been friends with the pastor for many years.

If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.  James 1:26

It's difficult not to let your mind get wrapped up in worry, when the world around you is out of your control. We always want our friends and family to be right with God. Our nature makes it easy to step into a place of judgment. I'm the kind of person that likes everyone and wants to be friends with everyone, so I tend to just avoid conflict, but it still weighs on me at times.

I got a sweet card in the mail this week from our dear friends Ted and Pat Maple.  They are such an encouragement to me. I love being around people who just exude God's love. I believe we should all strive to live in a way that others can see heaven's light shining through us. God gives us love and blessings so that we can give them away.

Mike's sister, Lynn, came in from Florida for Father's Day, it's been nice to have her around. She was able to stay for Taylor's birthday and the Gray Family (Mike's moms side) reunion in Lebanon Park today.  I will take her to the airport at 5:30 in the morning. We are praying for a safe flight for her.

Vindicate me, O Lord, for I have walked in my integrity.  I have also trusted in the Lord. I shall not slip. Examine me, O Lord and prove me; try my mind and my heart.  For Your loving kindness is before my eyes.  And I have walked in Your truth.  I have not sat with idolatrous mortals, Nor will I go in with hypocrites. I have hated the assembly of evildoers, and will not sit with the wicked.  Psalm 26:1-5

I talked to my mom this week.  Great news, her family is putting together a reunion.  The details aren't finalized, but they are talking about July 22 in Spencer, IN at my uncle Joe's house. My mom is going to come up for the weekend. It will be great to see her!

I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men.  Acts 24:16

Sunday night we went to the Guardian's Home. Our special guests were Mike and Donna Pender. They did a great job of connecting with the kids. It was nice to have them there. As always, there were several kids that really get a hold of my heart. I am faithfully praying that God will quickly work their situations for good. And, especially that he will use these struggles to create in them a strong and faithful character.

Tuesday was Taylor's birthday.  I took the day off from work, and chauffeured a group of teens around the town. The best kept secret for teens in Indianapolis is Ten Buck Tuesday at Gameworks!! They had a great time.  We also went to see the Lake House and had some family and friends over for cake and ice cream in the evening.

O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his mercy endureth forever. 1 Chronicles 16:34

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18

Sometimes its good to just stop and refocus.

This week I’ve thought a lot about how I’ve taken so many things for granted, my family especially.  We often say "thank you Lord for the many blessings you’ve bestowed upon our lives", but how often to we really appreciate those things. Many times we just take for granted that they will always be available to us.  As, I think about how quickly my children have grown into young adults I’m struck with the fact that soon they’ll be working and driving, and I will wish they were near more often.   

Taylor’s 13^th birthday is coming up next week. I want it to be a great one for her.  She is a special, sweet, talented girl and I don’t tell her enough what a blessing she is in our family.  Chris has been away at a Boy Scout leadership camp this week.  I sent him a care package, I hope he enjoyed it.  I miss him a whole bunch!!

And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. Ant the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.  However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life. 1 Timothy 1:12-16

They are from Muncie, IN.  They will be in town again for the Indiana Gospel Music Festival at Calvary Temple, 2901 N. Post Rd. in Indianapolis. The festival will be held on Friday, July 14th from 7:00-11:30 p.m. and Saturday, July 15th from 4:00-9:35 p.m. The Blair Family sings at 9:00 p.m. on the 14th.  I hope they get a great crowd.  There are a lot of other great groups there also.

For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  Romans 8:6

I used a PowerPoint presentation along with my songs. It's something I haven't seen done there before. So, I think a lot of people really enjoyed that.  There's one song in particular that I worked hard on finding pictures that went with the message in words of the song. I love to get the opportunity to play it because I don't necessarily feel I'm able to fully communicate the meaning behind the song without the visuals. It's called For Goodness Sake.

God impressed upon me a message for his people last night, it is simply this - BE A BLESSING!

An old friend of Mike's and his wife came (Mike & Debbie Burdine). I'm so thankful they did. Mike B. ended up knowing one of the regulars there, Don Davis. Don sang a song, so I think it was just the encouragement that Mike B. needed last night. I think they are coming back next week and Debbie is going to bring a song to sing! That is awesome.  We've went to an Easter Cantata at their church and heard her before. She is very talented.

Chris ran the video camera and did a fantastic job with that.  He's been such a blessing the past couple of days.  I'm so glad God made him my son.  I wonder what he'll go on to do with his life.  Regardless, I know he'll be a wonderful man with a good heart. 

Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels. Hebrews 13:2

Mike and I had a great time at the Beech Grove Worship Center tonight. Please pray for God's will in the future of this Tuesday night coffee house. Pray that God will send workers to help lift some of the load that Becky and Don and the other regulars, have been shouldering for so long.   but Leroy Driscoll was the featured singer. We have got to get Mike's parents out to one of Leroy's concerts. They would love him!

I tried another song I wrote on the Foundation Singers tonight. Once again, they came through with the music.  These guys are so cool and talented! I love it because Howard Silcox will tell me what key I'm singing the song in. He is a valuable resource!!

I got a sweet letter in the mail from my mom.  She is looking for a new place to live. Please pray that God will provide for her.  She sent me a beautiful bookmark and pin.

In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you.  I go to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to myself." John 14:2-3

I'm so excited to say that a sweet friend named Tammy Davis is going to start giving me piano lessons after the Sunday night service at Jubilee starting next week. We are going to eventually sing a song together too! It's going to be great.  I love to hear her sing.  I think I can learn a lot from her.  I am trying to convince her and her husband Lloyd to join the IGMA.

Friday's group had great harmony.  I forgot to write about them.  Their name was Grace Abounds. Mike, Shelly and Aaron did a great job. They are from Lawrenceburg, IN. I look forward to hearing them again sometime.

I cut Chris's hair yesterday.  I think it looks cute.  Wow, he really looks like a mini Mike with the new do!

Rev. Ken Gates referred to this terrific scripture in his message at this weekends retreat.  I know this scripture is true, but when he called it out I had to read it and read it again.  It's almost unfathomable to really absorb the meaning of this promise. Hallelujah!

But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ form the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you. Romans 8:11

I'm excited about what the future holds for IGMA, it is bursting with unrealized potential, and I feel its only going to be a short time before everybody who loves or sings gospel music in Indiana will want to be a part of it. Members can be not only performers but also associates (people who enjoy or promote gospel music). There are a lot of quality people involved in this organization. I just think of all the undiscovered talent out there, and I think we need to find them and get them involved. The membership application can be found at www.ingma.com.

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10

Last night was so cool! Mike Pender and I hosted the coffee house.  I just love singing with him. He has an amazing voice, and can sing with anybody... unlike me! The featured group was the Hebrew Boys.  I really enjoyed them.  And the spirit in the place was phenomenal. Praise God!

Poor Mike has been out of commission most of the week. He had some major dental surgery this week and has been in a lot of pain.  I'm glad he feels well enough to go to the Indy 500 tomorrow.  If he didn't go it would be the first race he's missed since 1964.

I'm so glad school is finally out. I know the kids are too.

But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. Jude : 20

Chris had a major report due on Mussolini this week.  20% of the grade was scored on how well Chris dressed as Mussolini...yes he was a corporal in the Italian  Army in WWII. So, we had an adventure to three different thrift shops to locate duds that would pass for a period uniform. He debated on whether to shave his head to really try to look like Mussolini, but eventually decided against it.

Taylor is at Kings Island today with the school band. It seems like they ended up with a perfect day for it. Chris and Mike are enjoying qualifications at the race track. After last weekends unstopping rain, I'm glad they will be able to get out on the track today.

Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love. Philemon 1:5-7

Taylor and I went to the mother/daughter banquet at Jubilee Full Gospel on Saturday. Donna Pender did a terrific job of pulling it all together and keeping things on track. The turn out was awesome. The men of the church cooked, served and cleaned. They did a great job. Ellen Abney was the special guest.

This morning we visited a brand new church in Decatur Township called the Salvage Yard. Yes, it is unconventional and very geared toward teens, but the service was fantastic.  We knew a lot of people there. The large praise band, praise singers, lights, sound, PowerPoint, etc. were all run by the youth of the church. I think we are going back on Wednesday night so the kids can really experience the youth meeting, they have adult Bible Study also.  Mike's sister Diana may come and bring our nephew Jacob.

You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance. Psalm 32:7

Saturday was another great day, because Mike, Taylor and I went to Louisville. We enjoyed a gospel cruise on the Belle of Louisville. We saw many friends there. The artists were The Dalton Gang, The Sonshiners Quartet and The Riddells. It was the perfect day, 70◦, sunny with a light breeze. You couldn't ask for more!  Anyway, one of the best parts of the trip was stopping on the way down and have breakfast with Mike and Donna Pender and on the way back for a late lunch.  It was great getting to talk and get to know them a little better. We are thankful God has provided such great friends.

Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another. Romans 15:19

My mom is facing some challenges too. She found a new job which is going well, even though the pay is low. But, as she is trying to live for God, a division is occurring between her and her boyfriend who is an alcoholic.  I'm praying for God's will and protection in her life.

We are going to Louisville on Saturday for a gospel concert on the Belle of Louisville. It's going to be great to have a quick get away!

Mike's starting to get a lot accomplished at the new house.  We are still a long, long way from moving in. Slowly but surely we will get it done, though!

Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer each one. Colossians 4:5-6

My friend Linda, who has also experienced the loss of a child from suicide, has asked me to highlight her hair on Monday.  I sure hope it turns out ok.  I'm not a hairstylist!! It will be fun though.

Mike's on vacation this week.  He hopes to get a lot done on the new house.  It doesn't look like the weather is going to cooperate the first part of the week. He also has to work the poles on Tuesday.  Get out and vote! J

O God, do not be far from me; O my God, make haste to help me! Let them be confounded and consumed who are adversaries of my life;  Let them be covered with reproach and dishonor who seek my hurt. But, I will hope continually, and I will praise You more and more. My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness and Your salvation all the day, for I do not know their limits. I will go in the strength of the Lord God; I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only. Psalm 71: 12-16

I would appreciate any extra prayers that can be sent up for me. I'm really  struggling right now.  Most days are good, but other days I feel like I fall so short of what God expects of me. I get so anxious about what the future holds.  Please pray for me that God would give me peace, direct every step I take and speak through me. I want my life to point to him. 

Tony Crowe sang at Jubilee Full Gospel last night.  He sings Mike Pender's song Graceland.  He is sending it to radio and hopes it will be a big hit.  It REALLY is a great song.  I thought Tony did a nice job on it, but in my opinion no one can sing it like Mike Pender.  Tony said it is his most requested song. Praise the Lord!

We have some sweet friends, Howard and Diane Silcox. Diane has had many health problems and surgeries, and it's beginning to take its toll on both of them. Howard especially who is a talented guitar player for the Foundation singers, is getting overwhelmed with providing care for Diane and doing all the cooking and cleaning.  Taylor and I are going to take homemade chicken and noodles to them today.  I hope it helps give them a boost and helps them have a great evening.  When I think about my struggles compared to theirs, I feel guilty even requesting prayer.

Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself, lest you also be tempted. Galatians 6:1

We are having gutters hung on our house on Stanley Rd. tomorrow. Mike already has a list of improvements the insurance company wants to see within the next 30 days or they will terminate our coverage. Boy, they sure are on it. Mike is taking vacation time the first week of May to get the bulk of these things done.

I'm getting more and more excited about the thought of this place getting done, and moving in!  We are going to have a huge party when we move in.  It will be great to celebrate with all our friends.  There are so many things we are in need of.  A friend of Mike's at work gave us a water heater and dish washer, which is a real blessing.  Praise the Lord!

You don't hear much about Jason in the Bible, but I appreciate this story and why his house was attacked by evil men:

But the Jews who were not persuaded, becoming envious, took some of the evil men from the marketplace, and gathering a mob, set all the city in an uproar and attacked the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.  But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some brethren to the rulers of the city, crying out, " These who have turned the world upside down have come here too. Jason has harbored them, and these are all acting contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying there is another king - Jesus. Acts 17: 5-7

I sang at Southwest Church of Nazarene today.  The people there were great, and want to have me back soon for a Wednesday night service with their youth.  That would be awesome!  I bet I know a lot of their youth from working at the Stephen Decatur.

I went to Jubilee Full Gospel tonight. Pastor Mike had a great message that I really needed to hear.  There were great testimony's shared, too.

Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. Hebrews 13: 20-21

I received a praise report that Ray Seaman's test came back negative for cancer on the growth that was removed from under his tongue.

Please pray with me for Louise Driscoll, who has a growth her back.  She goes May 9 to have it removed.

Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13

I've been practicing my keyboards everyday this week. I need to find someone that can give me lessons. I have an adult learner book, I'm just working my way through that right now.

Eleven years ago today, I ask Jesus into my heart. It is unbelievable to me where he's brought me from. I'm so thankful! I can't truly express what it means to have the love of God real and ever present in your heart. To know the promises left to us in His word, gives me a hope and a future that nothing else in this world possibly could have.

Mike and I spent the day working at our new house.  We got blinds up, light bulbs put in, some brush cut out next to the garage and lots of limbs and trash burned.  Adrian and Shane came and cut the grass for us. I bought a wall paper steamer, removing the wall paper is my next project.

We met our neighbors who live in the log cabin house.  They seem very nice. It took them two years to get their house completely built.

Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted, But He was wounded for our transgressions. He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by his stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:4- 5

So much as happened since the last time I sat down and took the time to write.  Last Friday Mike and I ran the sound and mc'd the Jubilee Full Gospel coffee house. Mike Pender and Leroy Driscoll were at a wedding rehearsal.  We had a blast. The featured group was Face to Face.  They have an awesome sound. Of course Faye Torma is a powerhouse.

Saturday we had so much fun at Bill Hess's church, Emerson Ave. Church of God.  The Foundation Singers were there and I got the chance to sing with them live.  I did the newest song I've written and they picked it up like nothing, it sounded great.  I found out I sing it in a B flat J

Sunday morning I sang with Charlie Wells at Bridgeport.  We ended up having his daughter, Linda, play the piano rather than use the soundtrack. She changed the key from E to C. She inspired me to play around with my key board and practice some! I've got to learn how to really play that thing.

Sunday night we went to see the Freeman's in concert. Awesome! And for me the best part was this old Appalachian spiritual song they sang. I can't wait for their new CD so I can hear it again.  I'd really love to sing it, too! Any, Misty Freeman has worked hard and had tremendous growth in her vocal ability.  I really enjoyed the songs she sang. I'm looking forward to her new solo project too.

Monday was Ryan's Steakhouse with the Smith Family.  I enjoyed hearing them. Our friends Tim & Caprice, and Steve went with us. The Smith Family sang. This was their first "gig" after a four month hiatus. A nice lady I'd never met before, asked me for my contact information. Her church is going to be having a revival and she'd like for me to come and sing. I hope that works out it sounds fun!

Mike met our new neighbors today.  They know his parents and a lot of his family.  He enjoyed talking to them.  They are in their 70's and just got back from Florida.  They go there for the winter. I think they are going to be a helpful resource to Mike, the gentleman purchases houses and has them fixed to sell.  He told Mike about a great place to get gently used vinyl windows. Praise God!

But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you. 1 Samuel 12:24

We had a wonderful prayer time after the meeting and singing. Special requests went up for Ray Seaman, Paulene Shippley and her son Bodey, Don and Melanie Holliman, Lori and her son Garrett and nephew, Tommy Linder's wife, Beth Mexin. Pastor Ken Gates anointed each person with oil and we all gathered around to lift them up in prayer.

My friends Rick and Sharon Clayton came, Rick sang and plans to join as soon as he gets a recording made of himself.  Rick and Mike and I have been working on a medley we are going to try to sing on Friday night.  Mike and Donna Pender will be at their daughters wedding rehearsal, so they have asked us to MC and run sound for the coffee house on Friday.

Check out our new house pictures on my photos page! 

We close on 4/13.Thank you for your prayers!

Let it be know to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole. This is the stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone. Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.  Acts 4:10-12

Rick Clayton and I sang Sing Alleluia at Jubilee Full Gospel.  I think it sounded great. Especially considering we really haven't practiced much. Rick and his wife Sharon have been our friends for a long time. We've had a lot of fun together.  Mike and I are working on putting together a medley of good old songs with Rick and Sharon. It's going to be great! 

We just learned last night the The Freemans will be at Mount Calvary Sunday night.  We will  be there! I always enjoy hearing them sing. 

His Voice Through Us was the featured group last night.  They are so good.  What a blessing!  Ray Seaman shared that he has to have a growth removed from under his tongue this week.  He is such a talented man, I know God will be in control of the situation, I know it's hard not to worry because they told him depending on how deep they have to go, he may loose all feeling in his tongue, which would mean he wouldn't be able to sing anymore.  And, let me tell you this is a talented man that loves to sing for the Lord.  I pray that God will guide the surgeon's hand and preserve Ray's voice and that this growth will not be malignant.  

Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist. Luke 21:14-15

The kids are off on Spring Break. I've taken Friday, Monday and Tuesday off. Mike has all next week off.  We decided not to go anywhere this year, as we need to save every penny for fixing our new house J

I'm going to go take some pictures of the house and property this week. I'll post them for everyone to see.

My friend Becky was recently diagnosed with breast cancer.  I pray that God will heal and protect her. And, strengthen her family through the coming treatments.  It doesn't appear anything has spread to her lymph nodes.  Praise God!  I believe this challenge will give her a special testimony for the Lord.

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. Matthew 7:33-34

We have been in a great house in Mars Hill for our 15 years of marriage (Mike even longer than that).  Now ... God has blessed us with two acres in Camby, and a house that needs a lot of work, but will become our dream home! Our bid was accepted this week, now it's just a matter of getting all the paperwork, financing and our 20% down taken care of.  We have until the end of April. We have to get our current home ready to put on the market.  We expect we'll be able to get an amount comparable to what we pay for the other property from our place. The challenge will be swinging two house payments while having the money to get the new house fixed and livable.  Pray that God will provide!! It's exciting, and scary, and overwhelming at the same time.  It is going to be a busy year! Praise the Lord.

Friday night, a group called The Dotsons sang at Jubilee. They had a great sound. I seen friend there that I don't think have ever come on Friday night before. That was a blessing.  Andrew Robinette was the featured singer.  This young man has a gift, and it is so nice to see him using it for the Lord!

Last night we went to a benefit concert at Word of Faith Church and heard The Lively Stones, Dave Elmore and New Beginning. It was a great time.  Marion of the Lively Stones, asked me to come up and sing a couple of songs and she invited me to sing about a half an hour when they are the featured group at the Going Home Cafe in July. Their bass guitarist, Steve, is talented on any instrument and so friendly.  He is going to come by the house and help Taylor with some things on her bass guitar.  He also plays keyboards and is going to listen to a song I need music for.  I know he'll be able to pick it up easy.  Maybe, I can sing it at the Coffee House with him on the keyboards soon!

I am the vine, and you are the branches. He who abides in Me and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. John 15:5

Our friend Tim made a great PowerPoint with photos from some of the small groups from the church. It had a beautiful song by Sarah Scharbrough.  This girl is amazing! Visit her site and take a listen :-) I have to PRAISE GOD for the tremendous move of the Holy Spirit. We have seen people saved all over the place recently.  We had someone accept Christ and be baptized at Bridgeport.

Tim and his wife Caprice are going to go to Ryan's with us next month! I know they are going to have a great time.

We went and looked at a house yesterday.  It's a repo, which is exactly what we are looking for - Mike is so talented at remodeling and building on.  The house isn't much right now, it needs totally gutted, and built on to, but it has a two car garage and two acres in Camby.  Please pray that God will make a way. I know He will if it's meant to be.

Taylor and I went to Mt. Calvary last night.  Pastor Dailey's message was powerful. It was based primarily on John 18:19-22. Focusing on Jesus' answer to the high priest "ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said." He expected his disciples to testify to what they have witnessed in their time with Jesus. (this occurred just before they scattered and Peter denied three times)

We have all missed the opportunity to witness for the Lord at some point. The message stressed the value of a soul. That is a compelling thought. Our minds should always be concerned for the souls of the lost.

But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:14-17

It's funny how God will put people in our path. I don't believe that any encounters are by chance. The Lord weaves our lives together into a beautiful tapestry. I am also blessed by the people who came for a weigh in tonight.  There were many success stories. People are getting excited about what is happening.

I'm trusting that God will direct and provide.  I will go where he leads!

So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. "For you shall go out with joy, And be led out with peace; The mountains and the hills shall break forth into singing before you. Isaiah 55:11-12

The financial reality of this CD project is setting in.  I'm not sure if we'll be able to swing it. I'm trying not to get discouraged, but if God doesn't choose to put His hand on this effort and make the way, it won't happen.

I'm going to sit down and try to write a few more songs. I'm asking for His anointing and seeking His guidance.  I still need to get my other song copyrighted, too.

Jesus replied "What is impossible with men is possible with God." Luke 18:27

Someone accepted Christ at the restaurant tonight.  God has really been moving and working through those who are faithful to share his salvation plan.  Thank you Lord!

Tonight, Taylor and I went to the library and to the Decatur Township Armstrong Pavilion for a tour and membership pricing information.  I think we are going to join. There is a large exercise room, a track, basketball and volleyball. I need the exercise, and the kids have been wanting to join.  I don't know when I'll fit it in! But maybe if I plan it right, we can get down there a couple times a week. We have a nice large fitness center where I work. But, I don't want to get too sweaty over lunch, and who wants to go to work early or stay late?

And he died for all so that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for the One who died for them and was raised. 2 Corinthians 2:15

We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Romans 5:3-5

So far 2006 has been a time of spiritual renewal for me, I do feel so close to God right now.  I can clearly feel the prompting of the Holy Spirit, and I just want to stay within God's will.

Sometimes that involves telling others things they don't want to hear.  I don't want to ever hurt anyone's feelings, but I have to do what I believe to be right.

I think about how while on this earth Jesus submitted Himself to the Father, so that every word was spoken as God would have Him speak it, and every act was done precisely as God would have Him do it. Boy, I continue to strive in this area, but fall so far behind.

Today we had an all staff retreat and our guest speaker made me realize that I have a bad habit of not giving people my full undivided attention.  Did you know that most people speak at a rate of 150 words per minute, while we listen and think at a rate of 500 words per minute?...hence the susceptibility for our minds to wonder. We had to role play some listening activities using a mirroring technique and I must say that I did truly enjoy the conversation with our IT guy regarding fly fishing more than I expected. I'm going to try harder to be an attentive listener.

I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.  John 5:30

Sunday night Chris and I went to Mt. Calvary Evangelistic Center.  Pastor, Steve Dailey, had an awesome message.  It was exciting and funny and Chris seemed to be hanging on the edge of his seat. (me too!)  We went forward and prayed a special prayer for those in our family who are battling addictions with drugs and alcohol.  

Cappie shared her testimony and sang There is a Fountain, she sounded amazing!

Monday night I practiced with Leroy Driscoll and Mike Pender, then led a Weight Watcher style meeting at Jubilee Full Gospel.  I can’t believe how many people turned out. I’m praying that they all will stick with it, and really get healthy so they can serve the Lord to the best of their abilities.  There were lots of questions and another lady who has had success on Weight Watchers is helping with the program. We are going to start having a weekly weigh in on Friday nights before the coffee house.  I have to find my before pictures as much as I hate looking at them, I know they will provide some inspiration for others.

Your words are what sustain me. They bring me great joy and are my hearts delight. Jeremiah 15:16

I got to sing In My Robe of White with Mike Pender. It was fun and went very well! Eventually, we are going to host and do three or four songs together. That's cool!

The featured group was Crystal Valley Quartet.  They had some terrific songs, and Kassie from Chain of Righteousness and I had a great time clapping and singing along.

Today the kids and I went to the Heartland Healthcare Assisted Living facility with Willie and Betty Wood.  They are known as True Heirs.  They are amazing people. 

You are the light of the world.  A city on a hill cannot be hidden.  Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, an it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.  Matthew 5:14-16

We are going to get to keep our nephew Jacob in mid March.  He is such a neat kid, we love having him around. Continue to pray for God's hedge of protection around him.  At 12 years old he is hungry for God's word, I am so thankful!

Charlie Wells and I got together last night and practiced for our special music on April 9.

I also received 20 songs from an amazing songwriter named Sharron Kay King - Yes that is Sharron with two r's. Anyway, she's from Elkhart, Indiana. Her words are truly anointed. I can't decide yet which songs I'm going to pick, but I'm definitely going to do some of these!

The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay. God has given gifts to each of you from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Manage them well so that God's generosity can flow through you. Are you called to be a speaker? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Are you called to help others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then God will be given glory in everything through Jesus Christ. All glory and power belong to him forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:7-11

Also, today I got the honor of practicing a few songs with Mike Pender.  Wow!  I just love this guy.  He's so sweet. I'm blessed by the time I've got to spend with him and can't wait for the opportunity to sing with him!

Please pray that God will send an abundance of workers to his church.  I'd love to see Mike be able to accomplish all the things he wants to for Christ. This is a man who really loves the Lord, and one thing that is special about him is he is such an encouragement to others. He not only sings, but writes amazing songs also.

I believe God will increase his church and ministry this year. My prayer is that people will be faithful and generous to support his work for the Lord.

I also pray for Mike Pender, that God will keep him strong and healthy. And, will open up tremendous opportunities for him.

Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14

He took a little child and had him stand among them.  Taking him in his arms, he said to them, "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me." Mark 9:36-37

Anyway, the kids were great, very attentive. There was one boy in particular that was so sad he could hardly speak. My heart was breaking for him. It was his first day there. 

Another young lady kept asking me to hide her under my coat and take her home with me.  She really was serious.  Her mom is on crack and stabbed her, she has been raped twice and has tried to kill herself - 15 years old. God help her through.

The kids shared a whole list of prayer requests with me.  Many of them were hurting deeply.  And, it's so difficult to be in a place like the Guardian's Home. Even though people are trying to help you, it's hard not to feel as though you are being punished for the things your parents have done. You feel so alone and helpless. Your future is uncertain.  There were several kids who were experiencing a lot of anxiety about the possibility of having to go to a foster home. I pray they end up in good ones.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. , "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.  I will be found by you," declares the Lord, "and will bring you back from captivity". Jeremiah 29: 11-14

Last night we went to see the quartet Blessed Truth.  They did a great job. The Indy District President of the IGMA sings in this group. I've heard him sing solo before, but the group adds a wonderful facet to his music.

Mike Pender and I are going to work on a few songs together.  This will be a blast. It was the push I needed to get my soundtracks organized. Believe me, I had them stuck everywhere.

We went to our nephew, Logan's 1st birthday party today.  It was nice to spend some time with family. I'm so grateful for the family God has given me through Mike.

My uncle Tommy called tonight to let me know that my uncle Joe is undergoing treatment for lung cancer.  He couldn't tell me anything else.  I'll have to call my aunt Shirley to get any details and Joe's mailing address. My grandmother (mom's mom) had 13 kids. They are not a tight nit group.

When I tried to call my mom to let her know, her phone has been disconnected, again. I'm going to put a letter in the mail to her.  I hope she's still in the same place. I haven't talked to her since January.

Show me Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day.  Psalm 25: 4-5

After a forest fire in Yellowstone National Park, forest rangers began their trek up a mountain to assess the inferno's damage. One ranger found a bird literally petrified in ashes, perched statuesquely on the ground at the base of a tree.

Somewhat sickened by the eerie sight, he knocked over the bird with a stick. When he gently struck it, three tiny chicks scurried from under their dead mother's wings. The loving mother, keenly aware of impending disaster, had carried her offspring to the base of the tree and had gathered them under her wings, instinctively knowing that the toxic smoke would rise.

She could have flown to safety but had refused to abandon her babies. Then the blaze had arrived and the heat had scorched her small body, the mother had remained steadfast. Because she had been willing to die, so those under the cover of her wings would live.

Being loved this much should make a difference in your life. Remember the One who loves you, and then be different because of it.

“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge." Psalm 91:4

Several people shared with me afterward including a man who had been molested by his uncle as a child.  He eventually gave his life to Jesus at 35 years old. After forgiving his uncle, he was blessed with the chance to tell his uncle that he forgave him and lead him to the Lord on his death bed.  What a testimony!

The stories I hear when I'm out singing always amaze me. I'm so grateful that God opened up this opportunity.

You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.  For in just a very little while, He who is coming will come and will not delay. Hebrews 10:36-37

I wish it wasn't a whole two months away. I love singing with other people. I just don't get the chance to do it very often. 

I've had the fruits of the spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 memorized for a long time. But in my studies this morning I was in 2 Peter 1:3-8. It touches on some of the same principles, and I like the section title  "Making One's Calling and Election Sure".

His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.   Through these, he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.  For this reason make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge, and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance, and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.  For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.  2 Peter 1:3-8

Please join me in faithfully praying for our 12 year old nephew Jacob. Today was his mom's birthday.  She passed away four years ago from cancer. Since her passing, he's been taken away from his dad because of a drug addiction and is currently living with Mike's sister Diana.  He's having some struggles in school, which is understandable given all he's been through. (and the fact that he's in sixth grade!)  He told me tonight that he just wants to go home and be with his dad. I can totally relate.  When my mom's parental rights were terminated. It didn't change who she was to me.  I loved her, I didn't know my dad. She was all I had and I wanted more than anything to be with her. I'm just so thankful that Mike has a big loving family that all pitches in to love and take care of Jake.

We never know what the future holds.  But whatever plans you have for us Lord we are willing.  Lead us and provide the way for us to stay completely in your will!

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?  I am making a way in the desert ... to give drink to my people, my chosen, the people I formed for myself that they may proclaim my praise. Isaiah 43:18-21

Bro. Danny was impressed by God for the first time to re-preach on Sunday night the same message he did on Sunday morning. He was hitting the nail right on the head. I believe it was for us ... among the many others who came for prayer last night.  Mike and I just kept looking at each other and saying that is exactly what we've been talking about! Anyway, I guess you had to be there. 

I'm so glad we went.  I needed revved up for this week.  It is going to be a challenging busy week at work, please pray for me.  I also need to receive guidance from the Lord for my message on Sunday at the Cathedral of Prayer.  I believe everything happens for a reason. Why did this church call and ask me to come? I don't know anyone there.

I've asked God to guide those who need to be in attendance and prepare their hearts for the words He has for them. Now, I need to spend every free minute buried in God's word, seeking his direction. I do praise him for this brand new opportunity. 

But when God, who set me apart from birth and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not consult any man, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went immediately... Galatians 1: 15-17a

Mike and I went to a Benefit Concert and Silent Auction at Mike Pender's church last night.  It was great.  Danny McAdams was the featured singer, he did an awesome job.

We got a sweet deal on a nice amplifier. The kids love having a permanent fixture for guitar practice. 

My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:19

I saw several people I know, and even ran into my friend Della. She is a fantastic singer, but didn't sing last night.

Linda and her husband George have faced many tragedies in their 31 years of marriage. It encourages me, just to know them and see them carry on for the Lord as part of the Foundation Singers.

Also, Tuesday evening (1/31) we went to the Beech Grove Worship Center.  Our friend Rick Clayton came, and Mike made him promise that he'd bring his guitar or a track next time and sing. 

Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.  Ephesians 5:1-2

I've put pictures of our tent in the photo section. Take a look, and pass the word!

At the solo & ensemble contest yesterday, I saw so many different faces rushing up and down the halls. The Lord impressed upon me how wonderful and unique he created each one of us.  In that crowded school there were no two alike, but that is just a tiny piece of this huge planet, full of people - each one special to our creator.

"You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created." Revelation 4:11

Chris left for Winter Camporee this morning and Taylor had a performance at the Indiana State Solo & Ensemble Contest. There were five in her quintet.  Two flutes, two clarinets and one saxophone. They did a wonderful job and received a gold medal. 

Southwest Church of the Nazarene just called.  They would like me to do a concert in April. It will be nice to sing there, I know a lot of people who have never heard me sing before. Praise the Lord!

You are my rock and my fortress; therefore, for Your names sake, lead me and guide me.  Psalm 31:3

I'm excited about tomorrow.  We are going to Winter Jam 2006 at the Pepsi Coliseum.  Many contemporary Christian artists will be there such as Newsong, Newsboys, TobyMac, ZOEgirl, Hawk Nelson, and Krystal Meyers. I love all kinds of music. What a way  to kick off a busy weekend!

Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him, tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.  1 Chronicles 16:8-11

She sings, plays guitar and mandolin and writes many of her own songs.  My friend Connie and I have seen her before, but this was the first time Mike, Chris & Taylor met her. It was a special evening. 

I always enjoy seeing everyone from Jubilee.  Lord, please bless them for their faithfulness and willingness to encourage and equip your servants.

Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken.  My victory and honor come from God alone.  He is my refuge, a rock where no enemy can reach me. Psalm 62:5-7

Please pray especially for 14 year old Sara who is trying out for the role of Rizzo in Grease as well as one of the house parents named Diane who is caring for her grandchildren while her son is in some trouble.

There were two large families there last night.  One with five kids and the other with six. One of the girls yelled out as we were wrapping up "Thanks, we love to have visitors"  I continue to pray that God will send quality people to encourage the kids there.  If you know of any groups that do clowning, puppets, mime, dance, etc. have them contact me. I'd love have them come with us some time.

Prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers.  James 1:22

I'm amazed at how many wonderful songwriters have sent me demos to review. All the songs have been solid, but nothing that's a real match for my next project. Until, I received a song called Little Flower from a songwriter named Gary Rayburn from Xenia, IL. I spoke to him today and it looks like singing and recording it is a possibility.

Thank you Lord!

I trust in You, O Lord ... My times are in Your hand. Psalm 31:14-15

I praise God for people like them, who have a burden to share with those who need the Lord.  That is what we all as Christians have been called to do. Last month, one of the waitresses named Crystal accepted Christ! Hallelujah J

Tonight right before the program began Pastor, Steve Dailey, asked me if I'd like to sing a song. I actually ended up singing two: It Satisfies Me & Joy Unspeakable.  I was honored to have the opportunity.  Others who sang were: Chain of Righteousness, the Gospel Light Singers and The Riddells.

“All authority hath been given unto me in heaven and on earth. Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world”   Matthew 28:18-20

Unfortunately he came down with laryngitis.  So, he called and asked if I could fill in for him.  Mike took our sound system down early and got set up. The food was delicious.

The people there were great, many of them stayed after to share with me their amazing stories of all God has done in their lives.

The owner Ron Murray booked Leroy and me to come back on January 6, 2007.  Now I have an excuse to learn a song with Leroy! I can't wait, he has a great smooth voice. We just have to make the time in our crazy schedules to practice.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.  Hebrews 12:2