Pliler's Place

Carried By Jesus

2011-08-08T09:29:00.001-04:00

The last few months I have been carried by my Lord through a very difficult time. I was in the hospital for abdominal pain then returned a few weeks later for the same ailment. This time I stayed in the hospital for 2 weeks and had surgery for a bowel obstruction.

As we get older it takes a lot longer to recuperate...and it seems like an eternity until we start feeling better. But through it all I knew that my Lord was near, giving me the strength I needed to get through what was going on. After all in Hebrews 13:5 He (Jesus) promises "I will never leave you nor forsake you"
I read this once and it is so true.......

When weakness overcomes you,

Trust in the One who promises to strengthen you.

Turn your eyes upon Jesus

For this is where your strength comes to face each day

The soon you'll find,

That your weakness will slip away.

Techno Dancing

2011-02-17T10:14:00.001-05:00

Last Friday evening our Youth Group sponsored a Valentin Dinner for all with entertainment. Here are 2 of the young ladies from our Youth group with their rendition of Techno Dancing. Enjoy!!!

Quiet Time.

2011-02-16T10:59:00.000-05:00

It has been quiet around here the past week. Weather has been good with a couple days of cold and frost and 1 day we woke up to a bout 1 inch of snow on the ground. This week it looks like clear sunny skies with temperatures in the high 60's.
Rodger has been down with his back. Don't know what is going on but last night I had to help him get up from the sofa. I told him he should good to the doctor because it could be caused by the fall he took down the steps a couple of weeks ago. But he said he will be fine and nothing was broken. I told him I didn't know that I was married to Superman and that he had x-rayed vision. That comment got a laugh out of us.
Tonight he is supposed to go to band practice and choir but he said he is going to stay home.
Found this Bible Verse during my reading yesterday and how true it is. It got me thinking about all the tough times Rodger and I have been through over the years and how God has always been there for us.

When ever we seek His strength, comfort or peace He provides. He is always there when we least expect Him. Here is something I wrote not too long ago when I was going through a rough time.

I Know You are With Me

From the time You breath life into me every morning,

Till You lay me down to rest at the end of my day.

I know You are always with me.

I feel Your gentle touch as the wind brushes against my cheek.

I feel Your warm embrace in the glow of the sun.

I see Your splendor in each day as the sun rises to light my way and bring all things to life.

I see Your power in the lightening and

I feel Your gentleness as the rain falls on my face.

I see Your joy in the laughter of children,

Your sorrow in their tears.

When I look into the night sky I feel Your peace.

But most of all

I see and feel Your love when my eyes look upon Your cross.

Cry Out to Jesus

2011-02-08T08:34:00.001-05:00

One of the men from our choir sang this song Sunday at church. It is powerful and has a message for everyone.
No matter what you are going through there is someone you can call on to meet you where ever you are....Cry Out to Jesus

The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed,

a refuge in times of trouble.

Those who know your name trust in you,

for you, O LORD, have never abandoned anyone who searches for you.

Psalm 9:9,10

Cooking Tips....Marinated Baked Pork Chops

2011-02-05T10:08:00.000-05:00

Checked the freezer for something for dinner and all I had was a package of two boneless 1 1/2" pork chops. What to cook. I wanted something easy and different for a change. After all you can only cook chops so many ways - I have yet to see a cookbook on 365 ways to cook pork--chicken & beef yes but pork no. So I went web searching and found this good and easy way to cook my lonely package of pork chops.

Marinated Baked Pork Chops

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon soy sauce

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons ketchup

6 pork chops, trimmed

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

2. In a small bowl, thoroughly blend soy sauce, vegetable oil, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, and ketchup.

3. Place pork chops in a medium baking dish, and spread with 1/2 the sauce.

4. Bake pork chops 30 minutes in the preheated oven. Turn, and spread with remaining sauce. Continue baking 30 minutes, or until internal temperature of the chops has reached 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).

Serve with rice, vegetables or salad, and rolls.

*****Seeing I only had two chops I still used the amount of sauce thinking I would have left over for chicken some night. However the sauce was just enough for the 2 chops. I added diced onion and then covered the baking dish with foil for the first half of cooking (20 min.). I then removed the foil and poured the remainder of the sauce over the chops and cooked uncovered for the remainder of time (15 min.). Seeing the pork chops were boneless the cooking time was cut.The result was succulent, tender and very tasty Will definitely keep this recipe handy

From: All Recipes

Cooking Tip... Easy Chicken Pot Pie

2011-02-01T10:19:00.000-05:00

This weekend while I was sick I looked for some easy recipes to cook for dinner. Here is one we had last. night. Rodger enjoyed it and went back for second's. Said this was a keeper. Hope you enjoy it.

Prep: 15 minutes

Bake: 20 minutes

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

3 T. extra light virgin oil

2 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell's® Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup (Regular or 98% Fat Free)

2 (15 ounce) cans Veg-All mixed vegetables

3 chicken breast

1 cup milk

1 8 count container Grands biscuits

Directions:

Heat the oven to 400°F.

Cut chicken into bite size pieces and brown in extra light virgin oil.

Add soup, milk and vegetables.

Cook for about 5 minutes

Pour into a baking dish.

Cut biscuits into quarters and place on top of chicken mixture

Bake for 20 minutes or until the biscuits are done and golden brown.

From: Campbell's Kitchen

Miserable Weekend..But Blessed By the Lord

2011-02-01T09:54:00.000-05:00

What a weekend to be sick. The weather was beautiful with temperatures in the mid 60's and I was stuck in the house with an upper respiratory infection. I woke up sick Friday morning with a bad sinus headache, scratchy throat and filling miserable. Come Sunday I was still feeling bad but at least the headache was better. Stood home from church in case I was contagious. By Monday I was starting to feel like a human being but still plugged up. Today I still have the head congestion but at least I can do something. I hate it when your head is all plugged up and every time you look down you feel like your head is going to explode.
But even though I was feeling miserable and couldn't enjoy the good weather I had to take time to Thank my Lord. He sure knows what we need before we even know there is a need. Casey (Eli & Ethan;s mom) called me Thursday afternoon to let me know that I would not have the boys on Friday because she was called off work. So I didn't have the boys on Friday when this all began. How great is our God!!!!!!! He knew I was going to be sick and fulfilled a need.. to be able to rest and take care of myself.
Today it is weather back to normal for this time of the year.. rainy and temperatures in the upper 30's. So it is stay home catch up on my reading and do laundry.
That's it for now. Have a great day. Remember the Lord is with you and will supply your every need..just trust in Him.

Wherever we are, we can trust that God will be there to answer our cries for help.

2011-01-26T10:16:00.000-05:00

David must have been far from home when he wrote this psalm. Fortunately, God is not limited to any geographic location. Even when we are among strange people and surroundings, God never abandons us. His all-surpassing strength is always with us.

Looking Through the Eyes of Jesus

2011-01-24T11:34:00.000-05:00

Three young ladies from our church went to Haiti for a week over the Christmas holiday to help with the Cholera epidemic there. They delivered their testimonies at evening service and it was very moving. They told of many incidences and how God had worked His miracles in the lives of these Haitians as well as their own lives. There was not a dry eye in the church.

Today as I was reading my Bible I thought about those ladies and what they saw and did as I read about Jesus touching and healing the lepers in Mark 1:40-42 ("Now a leper came to Him, imploring Him, kneeling down to Him and saying to Him, “If You are willing, You can make me clean.” Then Jesus, moved with compassion, stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.” As soon as He had spoken, immediately the leprosy left him, and he was cleansed")
We need to see people as Jesus sees people... regardless of where a person lives, what they look like, or their position in life the real value of a person is inside, not outside. Although a person’s body may be diseased or deformed, the person inside is no less valuable to God. No person is too disgusting for God’s touch. In a sense, we are all people with leprosy because we have all been deformed by the ugliness of sin. By sending his Son, Jesus, God has touched us, giving us the opportunity to be healed.
"The Lord does not see as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7
.

Answered Prayers

2011-01-22T10:22:00.000-05:00

What a day.. yesterday I watched my two little friends Ethan & Eli and what started to be a great day took a quick change.
Rodger was going into the basement (Man's Cave) and fell down the stairs. All we heard was a big bang and the house shock. Here I was with a 3 year old boy upset and poor Rodger laying on the floor at the bottom of the stairs. After telling Ethan everything was okay I ran down to help Rodger up, which is a task in itself as I am only 5 feet tall and he is 6' 4". Rodger was fine just a little shaken up and a small cut on his hand from the broken pieces of his coffee mug. Throughout the day I worried about Rodger. I had visions of my mother's fall and how it led to her death because of a tear in the base of her brain. I prayed throughout the day and before going to bed last night. I checked on Rodger and continued to pray for him throughout the night and this morning he woke up feeling fine..just a little sore.. and is now on his way to upward basketball at our church to referee 2 games.
Proverbs 15:29 tells us that "He hears the prayer of the righteous" and in Matthew 21:22 we have a promise from God "And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive."
I know that this verse is not a guarantee that we can get anything we want simply by asking Jesus and believing. God does not grant requests that would hurt us or others or that would violate his own nature or will. But throughout my Christan walk I have seen many answered prayers and God has helped us so many times.

On my hall wall I have a large picture of Jesus carrying a women and it reminds me daily that Jesus is with me everyday and will carry me throughout the day and when things get bad He will hold me close to Him.

Jigsaw Puzzle of Life

2011-01-21T16:45:00.000-05:00

Life is like an enticing jigsaw puzzle.

We look for just the right piece to go into the right place.

We work at it night and day.

So we can see the final picture.

It is challenging, an experience, and at times very frustrating.

We do the same with our everyday life.

We are constantly trying to put the pieces of our life together.

Trying to put each piece in the right place.

Trying to do all we can to see the final picture.

But we can rest.

For in the jigsaw puzzle of life,

There is one who already knows where every piece belongs.

He has already put together the “Big Picture” of life.

For He is the Creator and Master of Life.

He is God our Father.

And only He is trustworthy.

Only He is faithful.

Only He is all I need

For my place is not to create or control but to share in the “Big Picture.”

Wait for the Lord

2011-01-20T11:17:00.000-05:00

"When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them on the road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest way from Egypt to the Promised Land. God said, “If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” So God led them along a route through the wilderness toward the Red Sea,£ and the Israelites left Egypt like a marching army." Exodus 13:17,18
Many times we want an immediate answer to a problem, situation, or decision and wonder Lord do you hear me. Are you ignoring my plea for help. Why must I wait so long for an answer from you. Do you even care.
Then we wait no longer and take the easy way out only to find that in reality it was the hardest possible way. Oh if I only waited for God. If I only seeked his guidance.
You see God doesn’t always work in the way and time that seems best to us. Instead of guiding the Israelites along the direct route from Egypt to the Promised Land, he took them by a longer route to avoid fighting with the Philistines.
If God does not lead you along the shortest path to your goal, don’t complain or resist. Follow him willingly and trust him to lead you safely around unseen obstacles. He can see the end of your journey from the beginning, and he knows the safest and best route.

Love Barbara

Cold & Wet Weekend

2010-10-04T09:55:00.000-04:00

Weekend was cold and wet. Out came the sweats this weekend as temperatures went down to 42. Today is warmer at 46 with clear skies. We even had to turn on the heater and had to use the quilts on the bed. Looks like the cold weather is here and the hot weather is a thing of the past.
Saturday Rodger finished his work outside and did a lot of burning while I did my laundry and ironed. Went to bed early because we had to get up early for church.
Yesterday was church and once again pastor delivered a great sermon. This weeks sermon asked the Question What Might Have Been as we looked into the betrayal of Judas - What was the price of misplaced values, Wasted Opportunity & Tragedy of a Wrong decision. It left you looking at your own life and how we have made some wrong decisions and wasted many opportunities because of misplaced values.
After service we went out to breakfast at one of our favorite restaurants and ran in to people from church. We invited one of the couple to join us at our table. It was a time of great fellowship as we talked about many things with Pat & Bill May, a couple from our Sunday School Class.
Afterwards it was home, a short nap on the sofa curled up under an afghan then back to church for Rodger to play in the worship band. He didn't stay for services because he was tired and was having some bladder problems - the after effects of his treatments.
Today it is work around the house and go through our winter clothes to see what fits and what has to be given away. I am embarrassed to say that I have gained a lot of weight over the past year. I am not too happy about going through my clothes because I know many will be given away.
Well that's it for now.
Have a great day.

Love Barbara

Weekly Devotional - Where Will You Turn

2010-10-03T06:37:00.000-04:00

The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; the statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.

— Psalm 19:7–8

Where will you turn in a time of crisis? When tragedy hits? When disaster strikes? Will it be your favorite Web site? People magazine? The morning newspaper? The evening news? You will need something to give you strength and direction in your time of need, and that will come from the Word of God.

As one writer said, "One gem from that ocean is worth all of the pebbles from earthly streams." Just a pebble from the ocean of God's Word can make all the difference in the world. How many in their affliction have found comfort from Scripture?

I can tell you from personal experience that I have put the Word of God to the test, not only throughout my years as a Christian, but especially in the past 21 months. I have trusted in what the Bible has said, and it has sustained me and given me direction and hope and comfort when I needed it. Little platitudes or clever sayings don't help, but the Word of God does. It has been said that "he who rejects the Bible has nothing to live by. Neither does he have anything to die by."

Things go in and out of style, but the Word of God never goes out of style. It never goes out of date, unlike this morning's newspaper. The Word of God always will be relevant.

That is why I urge you to get a good foundation in this Book, because it is only a matter of time until hardship will strike you. Affliction will strike. Tragedy will strike. It happens in every life. There are no exceptions. But if you have a foundation in the Word of God, you will be ready for it when it comes. Don't wait until then to try and catch up. Get that foundation now.

Greg Laurie Harvest Ministries

Weekly Cooking Tip,- Short Ribs

2010-10-02T10:49:00.000-04:00

I made these the other night and they were good. Rodger said they were a keeper. However they were on the spicy side. So if you don't like your food too spicy adjust the amount of crushed pepper flakes from a pinch to the 1/2 tsp. I served them with boiled potatoes, green beans and a salad

Ingredients

* 1 (28 ounce) can tomato sauce

* 3 tablespoons lemon juice

* 4 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

* 2 tablespoons dried parsley

* 1 teaspoon dried thyme

* 2 bay leaves

* 2 tablespoons brown sugar

* 2 teaspoons salt

* ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

* 1 medium onion, cut into rings

* 3 pounds beef short ribs

Directions

1. In a large pan over medium-high heat, stir in tomato sauce, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in parsley, thyme, bay leaves, brown sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Add onions and short ribs, and stir together until the mixture comes to a boil.

2. Cover, reduce heat to medium low, and simmer; stirring occasionally and skimming fat from surface, until meat is tender, about 2 1/2 hours. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Taste of Home

2010-10-02T10:41:00.000-04:00

48 degrees - 48 degrees - that is what is showing on my computer for the temperature right now here in Tennessee. It certainly has cooled off. Yesterday was Jeans and a t-shirt. No more capris or shorts.
Fall is definitely here.

The week has gone by real fast. Here it is already Saturday and I am wondering - Where did the week go?

When we were young I can remember how long the day seemed especially when we were in school waiting for the end of school day bell to ring. Even working it seemed like forever before the end of my shift. Now the days just fly by. I thought retirement would be boring - but it isn't. There doesn't seem to be enough hours in a day or days in a week.

We didn't do much this week, just hung around the house and did the usual chores and then some shopping. I didn't even watch the boys yesterday. Their Dad took the day off because he had gone on a business trip and didn't get back until late, so he took a comp day.I miss them. Casey called and told Eli )10 month old) took 2 steps. By the time I have next friday he will probably be walking.

Today Rodger is planning to work outside and I got laundry and ironing to do.

Well that's all for now. Have a great weekend.

Love Barbara

Quiet Weekend

2010-09-28T12:33:00.001-04:00

Cough - cough - cough. That is all I am doing. Morning noon and night. I am so tired of coughing. I will be so glad when the allergy season is over with. I guess the next step is allergy shots. Then maybe I can leave the house without suffering afterwards.
Friday I watched Ethan and Eli. We went in the back yard for half and hour and then I suffered the rest of the weekend. But the boys sure did enjoy being outside. Ethan got out Rodgers tools and started digging. He said he was helping Rodger. He said he needed a tractor so he could help Rodger more. Eli just sat in his stroller watching his big brother and laughing. He was having his lunch. He will not eat baby food so at 10 months old he is eating adult foods. His breakfast is yogurt and cheerios. His lunch is a slice of bread and cheese with a banana. He does real good with them. He wouldn't drink his bottle so I put his formula in a sippy cup and added a little strawberry syrup and he drink that down real fast. I enjoy having the boys here and when I don't get to see them I miss them. At church Ethan comes and gives me a big squeeze and tells me he loves me. He is such a charmer and you know he has me wrapped around his finger.
Saturday I stayed indoors because of my allergies and did laundry and vacuumed.
Sunday was church. I worked the nursery during Sunday School and then went to morning services.
The Sermon was - If Jesus was on Face Book would He be your friend? May people are only a Sunday Christian. Through out the week they talk to their friends on Face Book sharing what is going on in their life and asking their advice and help on different things. They spend more time on Face book then they do with Christ. Jesus tells us time and time again that he is our friend. He knows us and loves us (John 2:25), He remains close to us (Proverbs 18:24) , He is our Advocate (1 John 2:1)and our Protector (2 Thess 3:3), He prays for us (John 17:9), and He prepares a place for (John 14:1-4). He is a true friend and He should not be just a Sunday friend. How true this is. How many times do you go to someone for advice instead of God's Word? How many times do you pour out your heart to someone instead of talking to God, and how many times do we let the things of this world take priority in our lives.

And here is how to measure it—the greatest love is shown when people lay down their lives for their friends. You are my friends if you obey me. I no longer call you servants, because a master doesn’t confide in his servants. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me.

John 15:13-15

Have a great day.

Love Barbara

Weekly Devotional - Hear God Through His Word

2010-09-26T16:01:00.000-04:00

Establish Your word and confirm Your promise to Your servant, which is for those who reverently fear and devotedly worship You.

— Psalm 119:38

God speaks to us through His Word and His Word is designed to help us, direct us, and encourage us in our everyday lives. We can hear His voice in every situation because we can find Bible verses or passages to pray in various circumstances. At times, verses or passages will give us remarkably specific, detailed direction. At other times we need to take a nugget of wisdom or a general spiritual principle and apply it to the matter with which we are dealing. For example, listed below are several common, specific circumstances and emotions with which the enemy threatens us and corresponding verses to pray in each case:

* When you are going through a season of difficulty or something that is wearing you out, you can pray Isaiah 40:29: “He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength” (NKJV).

* When you are concerned about the future, you can pray Jeremiah 31:17, which says, “There is hope for your future.”

* When you are struggling financially, you can pray Psalm 34:9–10, which says, “Oh, fear the LORD, you His saints! There is no want to those who fear Him. The young lions lack and suffer hunger; but those who seek the LORD shall not lack any good thing” (NKJV).

I truly believe that God’s Word holds the answer to every question we have and the wisdom to meet every need.

God’s word for you today: Emotions can lead you astray, but God’s Word leads you to safety.

Joyce Meyer From the book Hearing from God Each Morning: 365 Daily Devotions by Joyce Meyer.

Weekly Cooking Tip - Easy Pork Roast

2010-09-25T15:27:00.000-04:00

What You Need

1 boneless pork roast (3 lb.)

3/4 cup KRAFT CATALINA Dressing, divided

2 lb. Baking potatoes (about 4), cut into 2-inch chunks

4 Beets (1 lb.), cut into 2-inch chunks

4 Onions (1 lb.), cut into 2-inch chunks

4 Carrots (1 lb.), cut into 2-inch chunks

Make It

HEAT oven to 350°F.

PLACE meat in roasting pan sprayed with cooking spray; brush with 1/2 cup dressing. Toss potatoes and beets with 2 Tbsp. of the remaining dressing; spoon around meat. Bake 15 min.

TOSS onions and carrots with remaining dressing. Add to ingredients in roasting pan.

BAKE 1-1/2 hours or until meat is done (160°F), basting occasionally with pan juices. Remove from oven; let stand 10 min. Slice meat. Serve with vegetables.

Kraft Kitchens Tips

Keeping It Safe

Always purchase meat towards the end of a shopping trip so that it is out of refrigeration for the shortest time possible. Take home and refrigerate promptly. It is a good idea to put packages of raw meat in plastic bags to avoid any leakage onto other foods, especially produce.

Nice weather & Allergies

2010-09-23T16:14:00.000-04:00

Everywhere you look you can see this plant that causes so much suffering. It is the dreaded Ragweed and with it comes itchy watery eyes, sneezing, coughing and wheezing. This is what I have been going through the past 2 weeks. The new allergy medication the doctor gave me didn't help much - all it did was make me tired and sleepy. I felt out of sorts and did not feel up to doing anything. So I am back on the Flonase and Claridin with 2 Benadryls at night. That seems to help. Oh for the cold weather - then no more of the pesty ragweed.
Rodger is still not feeling good. I am beginning to wonder if he is not suffering from allergies. He was feeling a little better then he went out side to do some yard work and came back in coughing and saying his throat hurt. He was feeling so bad last night that he couldn't go to band & choir practice.
This week we haven't done much because of the way we feel. Tomorrow I watch Eli and Ethan. That is such a joy. Allie comes over and helps me. She keeps Ethan entertained while I chase Eli around the house. He is crawling and is everywhere. He is also standing up and walking around the edges of the sofa and coffee. It won't be long - he will be running around the house. His Mom said she was in the laundry room doing her laundry and he was with her. She turned for a second to take something out of the dryer when she turned back he was half way up the stairs. He will only be 10 months old in a few days.
The weather here has been cool and comfortable. I try to keep the windows open but with my allergies I have to close them when the wind picks up or if the pollen count for the day is high.
So for the last couple of days the windows have stayed closed.
Watched Dancing with the Stars Monday and our favorite is Jennifer Grey. She looks so different. I hardly recognized. her. We got flashbacks of Dirty Dancing and when she broke down, because of the song they would dance to and how it reminded her of Patrick, both Rodger & I cried along with her.
Well that's it for now.
Have a great day.

Love Barbara

Sorry

2010-09-20T10:12:00.005-04:00

It has been a long time since I posted and for those who follow my blog I apologize.
Between Rodger having a difficult time with his chemo and me with my allergies things have been crazy around here.
Rodger completed his three week treatment and is now on a 6 week rest. Once again he had problems with the side effects. Chills, fever, pain, unable to control his bladder, nausea and vomiting. The doctor told him that most people can not do the entire 2 year of treatments because of the side effects. Hopefully Rodger will be able to. He has another bladder exam the second week of October and we are praying the news will be good.
As for me I am having a terrible time with allergies and asthma. The doctor changed my allergy med. but it doesn't help. I guess I will just have to put up with it. I thought I left my allergies in California when I moved here but I have found that this area is bad for allergies. At least I don't have problems all year round - just the beginning of spring and fall.
It is cooling off and I am so glad that we are over that 47 day hot spell we had with temperatures in the high 90's and 100% humidity. Our dehumidifiers were going full blast 24/7
as well as our air conditioner. Another good thing we don't have the high electric bills like California. No more the $500. & $600 bills. It is great with a bill of only $189 and we have a bigger house.
My Dad is doing good in California. He calls me at least once a week. It saddens me to know that he is staying there. I have to pack up the rest of his things and send them to him. It is hard. It brings back memories of when I had to clean out my parents house after my mom died. It was so hard boxing up her clothes and craft supplies but I have a lot of good memories of all the things we did together and the great times we had.
Well that's it for now. I'll try to keep you updated on things here.
Have a great day.

Love Barbara

Weekly Devotional - Keep Walking on the Water

2010-09-19T08:08:00.003-04:00

And in the fourth watch [between 3:00—6:00 a.m.] of the night, Jesus came to them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified and said, It is a ghost! And they screamed out with fright. But instantly He spoke to them, saying, Take courage! I AM! Stop being afraid! And Peter answered Him, Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water. Matthew 14:25-28

Let’s focus for a moment on this part of a well-known New Testament story. The disciples were in the middle of the Sea of Galilee at midnight when they looked up and saw Jesus walking on the water. That is amazing, but as the story continues, Matthew wrote of the boisterous winds, yet Jesus kept walking on top of the waves.

The disciples were afraid—and that makes sense. Who would expect to see anyone walking on top of the water, even under the best of conditions?

Then Jesus cried out and told them, “Take courage! I AM! Stop being afraid!” (v. 27). This is the powerful moment in the story. What will happen now? Do they move over and give Jesus a place to sit in their boat? Should they get out and join Him on the waves? Do they huddle in fear, reminding themselves that human beings can’t walk on top of water?

Peter was the only one who responded in true faith. And let’s make no mistake here. For Peter to say, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water” (v. 28) was a tremendous act of faith. You’ll notice that he was the only one who spoke that way.

That was a powerful moment of faith. It was a defining moment that pointed out Peter’s great faith and belief in Jesus, the Anointed One of God. He was so convinced that Jesus truly was the Son of God that he was ready to get out of the boat and walk on top of the water with Him.

How many of you would get out of the boat? I emphasize this because it would be easy enough to say, “Lord, I see You walking on the water, and I believe I could walk on the water alongside You.” But would you? Do you have the kind of faith that would enable you to step out of the boat? Of the twelve disciples, Peter was the only one who took that step of faith.

I’m not citing this example of faith to discourage you or to make you feel that your faith is somehow lacking. I’m simply pointing out the great triumph of a man who dared to believe! Peter believed so strongly that he took a step of faith over the side of the boat and started walking toward Jesus.

Most of us know the rest of the story. Some might even smirk, saying, “Big deal! He got out of the boat, started walking on the water, got scared, and began to sink. And he also received a rebuke from Jesus: ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’” (v. 31). But think about it—Jesus didn’t say those words to the other disciples. He directed the words “you of little faith” to Peter. The implication is the others had no faith at that moment.

Think of these words not just as words of rebuke, but also as words of encouragement to Peter, the one who had enough faith to step out of the boat and begin walking on the water. “But when he perceived and felt the strong wind, he was frightened, and as he began to sink, he cried out, Lord, save me [from death]!” (v. 30).

What if you saw this as Jesus’ great encouragement, not just to Peter, but also to you? What if you looked at this event as Jesus saying to you, “You started so well. You believed Me, and got out of the boat. You did it! You walked on water just as I did. But then you allowed doubt to enter, and when that happened, you began to sink.”

This powerful story is a wonderful reminder that Jesus is always with you, and He will suspend natural laws to reach out to you and care for you.

Joyce Meyers

2010-09-14T12:54:00.002-04:00

Hebrews 9:27-28 – Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people

Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. – Hebrews 9:27-28

The writer is making a powerful point: Christ died once for all sin! That means that Christ died for every sin that you committed in the past, the ones that you will commit today, and the ones that you have yet to commit. That’s good news! The power of the cross is enough to meet you whenever you turn to God. The Holy Spirit has been sent to convict you of sin and the cross is powerful enough to cleanse you of sin. Christ’s death was once for all so that you and I can face the judgment day with hope.

Today’s commentary by:
Dave Whitehead, Senior Pastor, GraceNYC.org

2010-09-13T11:17:00.001-04:00

Hosea 6:3 – As surely as the sun rises, he will appear

Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.” – Hosea 6:3

Hosea was called into a very difficult situation. God’s people were unfaithful and Hosea was to call them to repentance. Yet in the midst of Israel’s spiritual adultery there come words of hope. When God’s people turn and acknowledge the Lord, He will come to us! Let every sunrise remind you that no matter how unfaithful you have been to God, if you are willing to acknowledge Him, He will come to you. Let every rain remind you of His faithfulness!

Today’s commentary by:
Dave Whitehead, Senior Pastor, GraceNYC.org

Weekly Devotional - All Things Become New

2010-08-23T11:26:00.003-04:00

"As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us."--Psalm 103:12

When a reporter once asked former Cowboys running back Walt Garrison if he had ever seen legendary Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry smile, he replied, "No, but I was only there nine years."

The first few years Landry coached in Dallas, he had little to smile about. The new Cowboys expansion team barely won a game and, shortly after his arrival, the country suffered a tragic blow when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

The dark cloud of Kennedy's assassination would hang over Dallas for years. It was an open wound that didn't seem to heal.

But this all changed when Landry led the Dallas Cowboys to their first Super Bowl win in 1972. The city that was once known as the city that killed JFK became the home of the Super Bowl champions, the Dallas Cowboys!

As I thought about this story, it made me wonder, do you ever feel like you have a dark cloud hanging over your life? Is there something in your past you are ashamed of...or something you just don't think you can overcome?

The enemy likes to remind you of your past and keep you under a dark cloud of guilt and regret. He wants to rob you of joy and hurt the witness you could have for Christ.

But don't let him! Romans 8:1 says, "...there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."

As a Christian, you don't have to live under a cloud of guilt because Jesus paid the price for your mistakes and failures at Calvary. So claim this promise today. Because Jesus wants you to live in victory!

PRAYER CHALLENGE: Thank God for the forgiveness of your sins and praise Him that your past mistakes can't keep you from having a bright future.

Senior Living Ministries

Nascar Weekend

2010-08-20T18:27:00.005-04:00

Yesterday it rained all day with flood warning. Today I woke up to fog so thick I could not see not neighbors house. It didn't last long and by the time the boys got here at 7AM it was clearing up.

Both Ethan and Eli were a bundle of laughs. From Eli trying to stand up and making all kind of faces while eating his baby food to Ethan dancing to one of his favorite cartoons Jack's Music Show. He just loves music and Eli is starting to laugh when the music plays. They kept me going all morning and by the time their Dad picked them up I was ready for a nap and so were they.
Rodger is doing a lot better. Just a little discomfort when he urinates but the chills, fever, and pain are gone.

Tonight we went to eat Mexican food and now we are just hanging around watching TV. Our favorite program NCIS is on. We just love it Rodger's favorite is Tony and Ziva while my favorite is Gibbs and Abby.Can't wait for the new season to start up next month.

This weekend is the Bristol races so everything is racing. At church on Sunday we will have #81 Michael McDowell giving his testimony and the Nascar worship team leading in worship. It should be a interesting and awesome service.
Well that's it for now.
Have a great day.

Love Barbara

Rodger Feeling Sick

2010-08-18T16:02:00.006-04:00

It is finally cooling off here. Right now the temperature is 80 and is supposed to be the same tomorrow. We are staying close to home today because Rodger is not feeling well. Yesterday he started up with his bladder treatments again and had a rough night. He had chills, fever, pain, and up every 2 hours going to the bathroom.
We thought he might be over with his treatments because of the good report he got from the doctor. But we were wrong. In order to prevent the cancer from coming back he has to continue with his treatments as scheduled.
Tonight we will not be going to church and hopefully he will start to feel better by tomorrow.
Well that's it for now.
Continue to keep Rodger in your prayers.

Love Barbara

A Blessed Day

2010-08-16T09:16:00.005-04:00

It continues to be hot with temperatures in the mid 90's. It was reported last night on the weather channel that we have had 47 days of continued high temperatures. Well what can you expect after the cold winter we had. Last year we had a very cold year with record breaking temperatures and snow. I remember hearing people say that there hadn't been that much snow since the 50's. I wonder what the weather will be like this year. But I know that soon the hot weather will be over and I will sitting here telling you that the weather is cool and beautiful.
Well yesterday was a blessed day. Got up early and off to church we went. We get there real early because with Rodger in the worship band he has to have practice before service.
I had resigned as Director of the Nursery because I was unable to fulfill my duties with Rodger and his schedule of treatments and their side effects. But I am still working there.
I had the pleasure of working with the crawlers. It was such a joy to see them trying to get around some crawling on their tummies while others have mastered the all four crawl. My little friend Eli was there and I had a great time with him. He has been having a rough time lately in the Nursery so I was assigned to be his special care giver. He played and crawled all over the place. He seems to do well when there is a lot of other kids around to entertain him. Just before church service was over he fell asleep in my arms. That is such a great feeling. One I truly enjoy.
After church we went for lunch, came home to relax before evening service, and then back to church. Last night instead of a regular service we had a worship service with a choir concert. I didn't get to attend but everyone said it was awesome. I helped Michelle in the Nursery because she had her hands fill with 5 kids, 3 of them babies.
After there was an ice cream social and once again it was great fellowship. We met some new church members and hung out with Lance, Casey my 2 little friends', Ethan & Eli parents.
It was a great day. And even though I wasn't able to attend church service I was blessed.
Those little kids and the things they come out with brings a smile to my face and a joy to my heart. I especially enjoyed the story of David and Goliath by one of the 3 year old boys. It was hilarious. Especially when he acted out the scene with David hitting Goliath in the head with a rock from his sling shot.
Well that's it for now.
have to go get ready to go to the store.
Have a great day. To my friends here stay cool.

Love Barbara

Weekly Devotional - Seeing Through God's Eyes

2010-08-15T06:36:00.003-04:00

The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" Then Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening." 1 Samuel 3:10

Noted English architect, Sir Christopher Wren, was supervising the construction of a magnificent cathedral in London. During the construction, a local journalist thought it would be an interesting read to interview some of the workers and write a story on its progress.

He chose three and individually asked them this question, "What are you doing?"

The first man replied, "I'm cutting stone for ten shillings a day."

The next man answered, "I'm putting in ten hours a day on this job."

Finally, the third exclaimed, "I'm helping Sir Christopher Wren construct one of London's greatest cathedrals."

Life is all about perspective. Do you hold a negative view of life, or a positive one? It is so easy to think negatively about the bad things going on around us and the difficulties we face day to day. But when you put your purpose into perspective, then this Christian life makes sense. When you keep a positive focus on your purpose in life, then the things that bring you down will seem to disappear.

God put each one of us here for a specific reason. Whether it is ministering to others, teaching His Word, providing encouragement and comfort, or something else, God gave you a gift for fulfilling the purpose He's laid before you. Samuel answered the call of God faithfully and he became the spokesman for God's Word to all of Israel.

Listen for God's call and answer it. Respond faithfully and He will reward you for your obedience to Him. Each morning, wake up with a fresh, positive outlook on life and your day-to-day challenges will be easy to conquer.

PRAYER CHALLENGE: Pray that the Lord would continually keep your heart and mind sensitive to the Spirit's calling. Ask the Lord to clearly reveal His purpose for your life.

Senior Living Ministries

Sad Week

2010-08-14T10:46:00.004-04:00

As I look out my kitchen window I can see that the leaves are starting to change colors. Soon this hot humid weather will be over and the cool days of fall will be here. Part of me is happy about the arrival of the fall season but part of me is sad. I will miss the long days and working out in the yard and no allergies but I will not miss the heat, the hot evenings, and the high humidity. The past weeks have been very hot with temperatures in the high 90's and high humidity. So Rodger & I have stayed close to home and go out only when necessary.
My niece Julie, Brent, and Brandon's vacation came to an end last Monday. They had a good time here and we enjoyed their company. Julie and the boys would come over on Wednesday evening and stay until Friday evening then they would go back to Jayme's. Rodger took the boys to the races and to Nascar Speedway Track near Dollywood. Julie and I hung out and went shopping.
It was a sad day when they left. I came down with an upper respirator infection so I couldn't go to the airport to see them off. They came by the house and I cried as usual.
I heard from my Dad and he is going to stay in California. The weather was a little too hard on him and at 89 traveling is difficult. So I have to pack up his things and send them to him.
I am putting it off as long as I can because it is hard. Both Rodger and I will miss him but he calls me every other day.
Well that's it for now
Have a great weekend

Love Barbara

Weekly Cooking Tip - Zucchini Cupcakes

2010-08-14T10:41:00.002-04:00

Here is an irresistible spice cupcake with a creamy caramel frosting that will be a sure winner at your home or for a potluck. They're such a scrumptious dessert you’ll actually forget you're eating your vegetables, too! —Virginia LaPierre, Greensboro Bend, Vermont – Taste of Home

Ingredients

* 3 eggs

* 1-1/3 cups sugar

* 1/2 cup canola oil

* 1/2 cup orange juice

* 1 teaspoon almond extract

* 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

* 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

* 2 teaspoons baking powder

* 1 teaspoon baking soda

* 1 teaspoon salt

* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

* 1-1/2 cups shredded zucchini

CARAMEL FROSTING:

* 1 cup packed brown sugar

* 1/2 cup butter

* 1/4 cup 2% milk

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* 1-1/2 to 2 cups confectioners' sugar

Directions

* In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, oil, orange juice and extract. Combine dry ingredients; gradually add to egg mixture and mix well. Stir in zucchini.

* Fill paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack.

* For frosting, combine the brown sugar, butter and milk in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat; stir in vanilla. Cool to lukewarm.

* Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar until frosting reaches spreading consistency. Frost cupcakes. Yield: 1-1/2 to 2 dozen.

Weekly Devotionals - Moving Beyond Regret

2010-08-01T06:32:00.006-04:00

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

--2 Corinthians 5:17

A young, enterprising store clerk convinced his boss a ten-cent sale would be a great way to reduce inventory. The boss agreed, and the sale was a tremendous success.

This gave the young man an idea: He would open his own store stocking nickel and dime merchandise! So the young man approached his boss and asked him to invest in his idea for a portion of the profits.

The boss said no. He thought the idea was ridiculous, and told the young man, "Honestly, where would you find enough merchandise to sell for a mere nickel or dime?"

The determined young clerk went ahead with his plans anyway. And eventually, F.W. Woolworth had stores all over the country!

Later, his former boss said with regret, "As far as I can figure out, every word I used to turn Woolworth down cost me about a million dollars."

Do you have something in your past you regret? Perhaps it's losing contact with someone you love or holding a grudge. Or losing a relationship. Or being unforgiving. The good news of Jesus Christ is that every day is a new day for His followers! His blood has cleansed you from all your sins and Jesus gives you the amazing opportunity to start anew every day!

That's the power of His grace!

PRAYER CHALLENGE: Thank God for the cleansing power of the cross to erase all your sins. And ask Him to help you with any past regrets you might have. By His grace you can start anew. Senior Living Ministries

Chili Coney Dogs Recipe

2010-07-31T14:27:00.002-04:00

Everyone in our family, from smallest kids to oldest adults, loves these dogs. They’re so easy to throw together in the morning, or even the night before. —Michele Harris, Vicksburg, Michigan Taste of Home

Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon dried minced onion
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
Dash cayenne pepper
8 hot dogs
8 hot dog buns, split
Shredded cheddar cheese, relish and chopped onion, optional

Directions
In a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the tomato sauce, water, Worcestershire sauce, onion and spices.
Place hot dogs in a 3-qt. slow cooker; top with beef mixture. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until heated through. Serve on buns with cheese, relish and onion if desired. Yield: 8 servings.

Weekly Cooking Tip - Watermelon Smoothies

2010-07-24T10:34:00.003-04:00

With today being the hottest day of the year here in Tennessee what could be better that a cool refreshing smoothie. These fast-to-fix smoothies are just the thing to beat the heat!

Jamie Cockerel, Kalamazoo, Michigan –Taste of Home

Ingredients

3 cups cubed seedless watermelon

1 cup crushed ice

1 cup watermelon, raspberry or lime sherbet

4 teaspoons lime juice

2 teaspoons miniature semisweet chocolate chips

Directions

In a blender, combine the watermelon, ice, sherbet and lime juice; cover and process for 30 seconds or until smooth. Stir if necessary. Pour into chilled glasses; sprinkle with chocolate chips. Serve immediately. Yield: 4 servings.

Note: If you use watermelon with seeds, keep the seeds, dry them out, and mix them with your bird seed - the birds love them.

Brent and Julie Arrived

2010-07-24T10:16:00.003-04:00

This week has been great. My niece, Julie and great nephew Brent arrived Tuesday night and it was a time of excitement, surprise, and tears of joy. Brent is no longer the little fellow I remember from just 1 year ago. He had a growth spurt and is now 5"9" and weighs 145. He is staying with us and last night Rodger took him and his brother Brandon to Bull's Gap for the race. They were so excited and are wanting to go back tonight. But tomorrow is church and poor Rodger can not handle another night of getting in after midnight. After all he is so accustomed to going to bed around 8:30.
Today is supposed to be the hottest day this year with temperatures in the high 90's and not cooling down toward evening as it usually does. So I am spending the day inside where it is nice and cool. Rodger has to do his Bible lesson for church tomorrow. Our Sunday school teacher is on mission trip so Rodger is filling in for him. He enjoys teaching and this is his 2nd year as Jeff's substitute teacher.
Well that's it for now. Have a great weekend.

Love Barbara

Weekly Devotional - All Things Are Possible!

2010-07-18T06:18:00.005-04:00

"If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

--Matthew 17:20

There once was an Episcopal bishop in Ohio who stood in his pulpit and declared that flying through the air was both impossible and against the will of God.

It seems, though, that Bishop Wright's sons, Orville and Wilbur, didn't think much of their father's pronouncement...they invented the airplane anyway!

Have you ever felt strongly that something was impossible? Philippians 4:13 says "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." It doesn't say some things. It says all things.

Most would have said it was impossible for Sarah to have Isaac in her 90s. That it was impossible for Jonah to survive three days in the belly of a fish only to be spat out exactly where he was supposed to be.

And that Jesus' death and resurrection was impossible...only for Him to die and rise again so that you might have a relationship with God!

If you have an obstacle in your life you aren't sure you can overcome, don't be discouraged. Take heart because God can do the impossible! Trust in this promise today.

PRAYER CHALLENGE: Thank God that through Him all things are possible and ask for His power to do the impossible in your life today!

Senior Living Ministries

Weekly Cooking Tip - Barbecue Chicken Packets

2010-07-17T14:32:00.004-04:00

With the hot summer days nothing is better than cooking on an outside grill so you don't heat up the house. Here is something different that you can put together no time. Serve with Potato Salad and baked beans. For dessert how about some brownie sundaes

What You Need!

4 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves (1 lb.)

3/4 cup KRAFT Original Barbecue Sauce

1 can (15-1/4 oz.) corn, drained

1/2 cup chopped green peppers

Make It!

HEAT grill to medium-high heat.

PLACE 1 chicken breast in center of each of 4 large sheets heavy-duty foil; top with remaining ingredients.

BRING up foil sides. Double fold top and ends to seal each packet, leaving room for heat circulation inside.

GRILL 12 to 15 min. or until chicken is done (165°F). Cut slits in foil to release steam before opening each packet.

Kraft Kitchens Tips

How to Use Your Oven; Assemble foil packets as directed; place on baking sheet. Bake at 450°F for 18 to 22 min. or until chicken is done (165°F).

Special Extra

Sprinkle chicken mixture in each packet with 2 tsp. KRAFT Grated Parmesan Cheese before sealing packet.

Kraft Kitchen

I'm Back

2010-07-15T11:37:00.004-04:00

I can't believe it!! It has been a month since I last posted anything. I bet you guys thought I had dropped off the face of the earth. Well I am still here enjoying my life in Tennessee and thanking my Lord everyday for his many blessings.
We had a great visit with my brother and even though I was sad when my Dad left to go back to California with my brother, I am happy that life for him there is good. He walks every morning with my brother and niece Julie, goes and visits my Mom's grave, and is really enjoying himself. He calls me practically every day to say Hi and let me know how he is doing. His original plans were to stay there until winter was over but I feel he is going to stay there. Like I told him--he has sacrificed enough for us now it is time for him to do what he wants to do and as long as he is happy then I am happy too. It is not about me but about him.
My nephew Brandon stayed and next Tuesday his Mom, mt niece Julie, and his brother Brent will be coming for a three week visit. I can't wait to see Brent. From what I heard he is no longer my little Peanut. He is 5'8" and weighs 140 lbs. My Dad calls him string bean. When I talk to Brent on the phone I get a limp in my throat because his voice has changed. He no longer has that kids voice that I have grown to love over the years, his voice is deep and at times I forget who I am talking to. I told him that I don't care how big he is I am going to squeeze the stuffing out of him when I see him.
Praise the Lord!!!!!!! Rodger got some great news Tuesday from his doctor after his bladder exam. The doctor feels he no longer needs any more treatments. That the cancer is gone!!
In 1 month he goes back for another exam and to discuss what well happen in the future.
But as it stands right now HE IS CANCER FREE!!!!!!!!
Well that's it for now.
Have a great day.

Love Barbara

Weekly Devotional - Begin Anew with God

2010-07-11T06:20:00.003-04:00

"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 a hope and a future."--Jeremiah 29:11

In December 1914, inventor Thomas Edison's laboratory burned to the ground. Edison, who stood calmly nearby watching most of his life's work go up in flames, knew full well his insurance would only cover a fraction of the damage.

However, Edison's attitude about the fire stunned those around him. The next morning, Edison returned to look at the charred rubble and declared, "There is a great value in disaster. All our mistakes are burned up. Thank God we can start anew."

Just a few weeks later, Edison produced a spectacular invention: his first phonograph.

The story of Edison's attitude is similar to how you and I should view our relationship with Jesus Christ. When we accept Him, He makes all things new. Our past mistakes are gone. Psalm 103 says "as far as the east is from the west," that's how far He has removed our transgressions from us.

God loves you so much that He sent His only Son to erase your past sins...so that you could start anew!

PRAYER CHALLENGE: Thank God for sending His Son Jesus to forgive your sins. And thank Him for the chance to start anew each and every day!

Senior Living Ministries

Where Has This Week Gone

2010-06-10T17:47:00.003-04:00

Here it is already Thursday and I noticed I haven't done any posting since Sunday. Sorry but a lot is going on here.
First of all Rodger is feeling a lot better since this round of treatments are over. He is still getting tired and crashing in the evening - but on the whole he is doing fine.
My brother and great nephew Brandon, arrived here last Thursday from California. It is great to see him and boy has Brandon gotten big. He is eleven years old now and this coming September he will be starting middle school. He has grown since I saw him last year when we all went to Disney World. Jayme has been keeping them busy. They went to a horse show this past weekend to watch Allie and Ashley compete. Then the rest of the week is has been seeing my brother in the morning and then they go to the riding stables in the afternoon.
Vacation Bible School is this week so our evenings have been busy since it started Sunday.
Today we shipped my Dad's clothes and some of his personal items to California. He is going back with my brother and spending the rest of the summer and the winter with him. Then hopefully he will back in the spring. He left some of his clothing and things here - so at least he didn't take all his stuff. So it looks like Rodger and I will be alone for a while. I have mixed feelings about it - part of me is sad and part of me wants what will make my Dad happy. I know he misses my brother and enjoys being with him, working with him, and just hanging out with him. Rodger said he is going to miss my Dad a lot. He likes my dad and they get along good together.
Tomorrow I baby sit for my two little fellows Ethan & Eli - so it is early to bed this evening.
Nothing planned for the weekend except for church on Sunday.
That's is for now.
Have a great weekend.

Love Barbara

Weekly Devotional - Living by the Spirit

2010-06-06T06:41:00.003-04:00

"Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit," says the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6

Plagued by some persistent health issues, Natalie, a retired grandmother was told by her doctors that she had to get regular exercise. He recommended that she begin walking a little bit every day, and eventually build up to longer walks.

So Natalie braced herself for the challenge. She went out and purchased new walking shoes and got ready to make walking a regular part of her daily routine.

And the first week, everything went pretty well. Natalie walked about half a mile every other day. The second week, she skipped a couple of days. And by the third week, with a house full of company, Natalie's willpower gave out.

Disappointed in herself, Natalie told her husband that she didn't know how she was going to make walking an effective part of her routine.

Her husband waited patiently until Natalie had finished then he asked her a question that he already knew the answer to. He said, "Natalie, what is your favorite Bible verse?"

A smile broke onto Natalie's face and she said, "'Not by might, not by power, but by my spirit', says the Lord." And Natalie added, "I guess that means not by willpower, either."

The next day, Natalie had a solution. She combined her walking with an extra hour of prayer time. And it revolutionized her approach.

Senior Living Ministries

Weekly Cooking Tip - Chicken Bruchette Bake

2010-06-05T07:58:00.005-04:00

During one of Rodger's bad week with his treatments the two boys that I watch, Ethan & Eli, their mother Casey brought this over one night with mash potatoes and green beans. We enjoyed it very much and she gave me the recipe- so here it is Chicken Bruchetta Bake.

Ingredients
1 pkg stove top dressing
1 can chopped tomatoes
1 tsp basil
1 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 boneless chicken breast (thinly sliced chicken breast work well)
1/3 bottle of Italian Drsg.

Directions:
Mix in bowl - stove top drsg, chopped tomatoes, basil, and 1 cup mozzarella cheese
Beat chicken breast flat.
Spoon in stuffing and roll.
Place in baking pan sprayed with cooking spray
Cover with the rest of stuffing mix.
Pour Italian drsg. on top

Bake at 350 for 1 hour
Put rest of shredded cheese (1/2 cup) on top.
Place back in over for 5 minutes.
Check chicken for doneness.

Love Barbara

Praise the Lord!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Our Prayers have been Answered

2010-06-03T10:20:00.002-04:00

Rodger had a better night and was able to get a good night's sleep. This morning he is feeling a lot better but still a little weak in the knees. Hopefully he will be better for Sunday 's church service because he hates missing church., hates not being able to play in the church worship band, and hates not being able to feel like a human being.
He is so concerned about things not getting done around here like the mowing and the rest of the yard work, and finishing the painting that needs to be done in the house. But I keep telling him tomorrow is another day. Our next door neighbor Bill volunteered to mow our lawn for us and our other neighbor Bill said if I need any help to just call him. They both are great neighbors and are always there to help anyone in the neighborhood.
That is how it is here..people looking our for each other and taking the time to be helpful.
My Dad decided yesterday that when my brother goes back to California after his visit here that he wants to go back with him just for the rest of the summer and the winter. He said that after last year's weather he had enough of the cold and snow. I must admit it was a bad winter.
We are going to miss him. He has been a big help to Rodger and Rodger really enjoys having him around. They talk go for walks when Rodger is able, and Pops goes out and helps Rodger with his yard work. For 88 years old he puts us to shame. He out lasts us and is always on the move.
But next year he will back around spring time. Most people go to Florida for the winter but Pops is going to California.
Well that's all the news for today.
Have a great day

Remember..........

No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it is painful!
But afterward there will be a quiet harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.
So take a new grip with your tired hands and stand firm on your shaky legs. Mark out a straight path for your feet. Then those who follow you, though they are weak and lame, will not stumble and fall but will become strong. Hebrews 12:11-13

Love Barbara

What a Night

2010-06-02T09:23:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was Rodger's last treatment for this session and once again he had a bad time. About two hours after the treatment the pain began, followed with frequency, burning, and unable to control his bladder. Then around dinner time he started with the chills and flu like symptoms. By 7:00PM he had a fever of 102 and it stayed like that throughout the evening. He was up every twenty minutes coming to the bathroom and this morning he feels like I gave him the beating of his life. His fever has come down to 100.8 but the burning, frequency, etc. continues. He is having a very rough time. He told the doctor about his reaction and the doctor said this is normal. He also told Rodger that sometimes the first treatments are the easiest. I was a little upset because the doctor didn't tell him if there was anything he could do to lessen the severity of the side effects. Everything the doctor said I already knew from looking it up on the Internet. What ever happened to compassion and bedside manner. So please pray for Rodger as he goes through this difficult time. We know that the Lord will gives us the strength to get through this for he has always been there.
As for me all I can do is take care of him the best I know how and to be there for him.
No matter how hard it gets I thank the Lord that it isn't any worst. For when we first found out about Rodger's bladder cancer and the size of the tumor we didn't think he would make it to another year. But the Lord answered our prayers and the cancer was at stage 1, which is good.
Now Rodger has a six week grace period and then an outpatient bladder exam. At least he will have time to get his strength up and be able to do the things he enjoys like playing in our church's worship band.
My Bible verse for the day Isaiah 41:10

Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Have a great day.

Love Barbara

Third Treatment for Rodger

2010-06-01T10:06:00.005-04:00

It is raining here in Tennessee. Not bad just a light rain. The temperature here is 67 and by the end of the day it should be in the high 70's.
Rodger has just left for his 3rd treatment. He is not looking forward to it and I don't blame him. He had such a miserable time the past two weeks with pain, frequency, unable to control bladder, chills, fever and vomiting. This lasted for the first 36 hours but the rest of the week he felt drained and still continued with the pain. Boy will I be glad when these treatments will be over with and I know Rodger will be also.
But for the next two years this is what we have to look forward to.

Today I have to go to the church to pick up another book from the church library. I am reading the Cape Refuge Series by Terri Blackstock. If you are looking for a great suspense book read this series. I am not one for romance novels but I love a good suspense. I have read the first two books and could not but the books down. I constantly had my nose in the book. There are three more books in the series and I can't wait to get them.

Well that's it for now. Continue to keep Rodger in your prayer.

Love Barbara

New Week Begins

2010-05-31T15:26:00.000-04:00

Happy Memorial Day.
Yesterday we didn't make it to church. Rodger wasn't feeling well- still having a lot of pain and feeling just miserable. Pops stayed close to home because his bunion was giving him problems. So both of my guys stayed in and watched TV all day. I read my Bible (reading The Daily Bible in Chronological Order 365 Daily Readins) and played computer games on Face Book.
Today has been a quiet day here in Tennessee. It rained early this morning but right now it is clear skies temperatures in high 70's and a bit on the humid side.
Rodger is in the bedroom watching NCIS marathon, Pops is getting his afternoon nap and I am doing laundry and cleaning house. I noticed that with age comes the fact that a person has to take a lot of breaks during their chores. I get tired, break out in sweats, and my back gives out every now and then. That is one thing I don't like about aging. I don't have the energy that I once had and my body just gives out on me.
Tomorrow Rodger's goes back for treatment #3. He is not looking forward to it. Please pray that this week's treatment won't be bad.
Well that's it for now.

Love Barbara

Weekly Devotions - Just Keep Drivin’

2010-05-30T06:52:00.004-04:00

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. ~Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)
A couple weeks ago, it was one of those breathtakingly beautiful mornings with fog everywhere — white snow, white sky, crisp frost on the branches. I had an hour’s drive ahead of me, so I grabbed my camera to try to capture some of this beauty. Unfortunately, as I drove along the highway, I could never find a good place to pull over to take pictures. Frustrated, I vowed to take the next side road I came to. It snuck up on me in the fog, and I swung onto it… and, moments too late, noticed it was a rutted, muddy dirt road. Not even gravel, just dirt. Great. My clean white car…
I hadn’t gone far before I regretted my decision, but there was no place to stop and nowhere to turn around. There was not a single house or lane to be found. At first it was just messy and bumpy, but before long, I started composing in my head the words to explain to my husband how I got stuck in the middle of nowhere and needed to be rescued.
The muck was deep and sucked at my tires. My car was sliding from side to side when it wasn’t bogged down by the deep wet earth, and the tires were spinning and spewing mud up to the top of the side windows. I didn’t care how clean my car was; all I could do was pray out loud and focus on not stopping. I knew if I so much as slowed down I’d never get moving again. The sludge in the road pulled the car from side to side; my shoulders were tense from gripping the wheel, and I repeated over and over, out loud, “Lord Jesus, please. Lord Jesus, please. Lord Jesus, please!”
After two miles, I came to a crossroads (thank you, Jesus!) and the road was paved (thank you, Jesus!). With a deep breath of relief, I turned onto it, feeling stupid and annoyed with myself. I headed right back to the main road, making sure at each turn that the road was solid asphalt before me, and went directly to town and the nearest car wash.
Sometimes we’re faced with situations we don’t want to be in — usually because of choices (or stupid decisions) we’ve made. Those are the times we need to look for a side road and turn around, or look for the earliest opportunity to get off that path.
But once in a while, we’re in circumstances that are out of our control. A relative is very sick; we lose jobs or friends or money; we’re misunderstood or unappreciated or wrongly treated. Some of these predicaments are small, but some are all-consuming and life-altering.
We may think we can’t bear it.
We don’t have the strength or energy or desire to patience to get through, and our hearts are broken. But more than that, we don’t know how to keep going. We’re being pulled down into a quagmire, under the sludge and muck, trapped and unable to find a way off that path. Those are the times we need to keep the pedal to the floor and just keep going, praying all the way. It may be ugly, and it may be messy, and it may even be a little bit scary. But if we can just keep moving forward, and ask God to help, we will get past the place we’re in.
Kelly Internet Café Devotions

Cooking Tip - Sensational Strawberry Shortcake

2010-05-29T08:27:00.002-04:00

This Monday is Memorial Day and to celebrate this holiday many of you will be having BBQ. Here is a Sensations Strawberry Shortcake that is sure to be a hit at your BBQ.

What You Need!

1-1/4 cups milk, divided

1/4 cup BREAKSTONE'S or KNUDSEN Sour Cream

3 Tbsp. sugar

2-1/4 cups all-purpose baking mix

1 pkg. (3.4 oz.) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding

1 tub (8 oz.) COOL WHIP Whipped Topping, thawed, divided

4 cups sliced fresh strawberries

1/3 cup sugar

Make It!

HEAT oven to 425°F.

BEAT 1/2 cup milk, sour cream and 3 Tbsp. sugar in large bowl with whisk until well blended. Stir in baking mix just until moistened. Spread onto bottom of greased 9-inch round pan. Bake 12 to 15 min. or until golden brown. Cool in pan 5 min. Remove cake from pan to wire rack; cool completely.

BEAT pudding mix and remaining milk in medium bowl with whisk 2 min. Stir in half the COOL WHIP. Toss strawberries with 1/3 cup sugar.

CUT cake horizontally in half; stack layers on plate, filling with half the strawberry mixture and all the pudding mixture. Top with remaining COOL WHIP and strawberry mixture. Serve immediately.

Kraft Kitchens Tips

Substitute 2 pkg. (10 oz. each) frozen sliced strawberries for the fresh strawberries.

Make Ahead

This dessert is best when assembled just before serving. But if you prep all the ingredients ahead of time, it can be put together in just minutes! Bake the cake up to 24 hours ahead of time, then split the cake into layers after it is cooled and store in airtight container at room temperature. Toss the sliced berries with the sugar and refrigerate until ready to use. And refrigerate the COOL WHIP overnight to thaw.

Kraft Foods

Crazy in Tennessee

2010-05-29T08:09:00.002-04:00

Well I bet you guys thought we have dropped off the face of the earth. It has been crazy here in Tennessee and Rodger has not been feeling good. He is back with his BCG treatments for his bladder cancer and has been experiencing a lot of side effects. The first week he had a lot of pain, bleeding, frequency, and was unable to control his bladder. Last week he had high fever, flu like symptoms, pain, frequency,burning, and still not able to control his bladder. It has been rough for him and we are praying that his next treatment on Tuesday will be better. Unfortunately he has to go through this for the next 2 years. His routine is a treatment every week for three weeks, three week rest, a bladder exam called a cystoscopy, six weeks rest then start all over again. We were told that 30% of people receiving these treatments have these side effects and Rodger has to be one of the 30%. But with God's strength we can get through this.
This Thursday my brother comes and visits. He is bringing my youngest nephew and it will be a blessing to see them. We are looking forward to their visit and I am hoping that Rodger is feeling better.
Well that's it for now.
Have a great Memorial Day weekend and be safe.

Love Barbara

Weekly Devotional - Lighthouses

2010-05-09T06:17:00.003-04:00

You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

-1 Peter 2:9 (NRSV)

LIGHTHOUSE keepers have to be a sturdy breed. It can be wearing and lonely to be stationed where they are. The work is generally heaviest when and where conditions are the worst. A lighthouse might be more comfortable stationed inland. But those in the riskiest locations -- out where the wind howls -- have the most opportunities to rescue people.

The glow of a lighthouse isn't meant to illuminate the inside of the building. It's meant to pierce obscurity when darkness descends and storms arise. The noise a lighthouse makes isn't for the keeper's entertainment. It's for cutting through fog too thick for light to penetrate, for raising an alarm, for guiding the lost.

When I see a lighthouse situated at the far edge of safety, I think of our call to light the world. Like the beacons that guide ships to safe harbor, we are the hope of the Lord made visible. We drive our light into the darkness and our voices through the fog of life. "See! Hear! Come! Christ is where chaos ends." Let us shine boldly so that those still tossing in the storm may find their way to the safe harbor that Christ offers.

Teresa Murphy (Oregon, USA) Upper Room Devotional

2010-05-07T19:41:00.004-04:00

Where has this week gone. As I look at my blog I noticed the last time I posted anything was on Saturday when I added the recipe of the week. Now a week has passed and I sit here wondering where the week went. It just flew by. Who said retirement would be boring.....
The weather here has been beautiful. Warm temperatures in the mid to high 80's, and clear sunny skies. I hope it continues throughout the weekend.
Monday was grocery shopping and getting the supplies I needed to make gifts for the parents for Dedication Sunday. We have children dedication on Mother's Day and this year there will be 10 little ones dedicated to the Lord. There will be 7 boys and 3 girls ages 5 days to 1 1/2 years old. I am doing up the kids picture in a frame with a sweet poem. He is a copy of one of them.

Tuesday was Rodger's physical therapy. The therapist told him what inner soles to get for his shoes and they have been a blessing. His feet are feeling a lot better. She also said that the reason he is having so much problem with the air cast is because of the way his feet turn in. So he is no longer wearing the air cast..boy is he happy.
Tuesday I took care of Ethan while his Mom took his brother,Eli to the doctor. Eli was up all night with diarrhea and vomiting. Poor Casey was sooooo tired and was afraid they would put little Eli in the hospital. But they gave him some nausea medicine and changed his formula. Casey started him on Pedilyte, so between the Pedilyte and his new formula he started to improve. He looked soooooo pitiful.
Thursday I went to have a Bone Density test done. It is a test to check for osteoporosis. You just lay on a table and this machine scans your upper body from the hips to the your neck. Looking very carefully at your spine. It took only 10 minutes for the test. so it was a in and out procedure.
Today it was clean house and go to the Bible book store to pick up the little Bibles that will be given in the gift pack with the picture for children dedication.
Tomorrow is laundry and put together the gift packs while Rodger prepares his Bible Lesson for Sunday. Our regular Sunday School Teacher is going away this weekend so Rodger has to teach class.
Well that's it. As you can see we have been busy.

Love Barbara