Mother's Day Ramblings

Mother’s Day is an extremely bittersweet day for me. I am grateful for my sons who I can see, hug, and hear. They bring me joy and laughter and sometimes, a few other emotions that I won’t speak of today. (hehe) However, my mind thinks back in time when this day arrives. I find myself thinking about Christi and Bobby more than I normally do. I wonder many things. Are they married? Do I have grandchildren? Are they happy? Are they serving Christ? Are they missing me as much as I miss them? Do they remember their daddy and me? I wonder.

Yet, God has given Mark and me the grace to continue despite the pain, despite the unknowing, despite our broken hearts where our precious two older children are concerned. God has shown His love and care to our family. And, we believe we are blessed.

Today, I am totally and completely exhausted. Mark and I had a 20 hour day yesterday chaperoning his band students to a concert festival and then a trip to Six Flags over Georgia. We awoke to raging storms and yet still proceeded to shower and get ready for our church service. Both boys went with us today. It was so good to see their faces as I sat in the choir loft. After the choir special, the choir left the loft and sat with our families. That is not a normal happening in our church.

This was Dr. Perry’s last Sunday as our pastor. I ache inside. I have come to dearly love Margaret and Dr. Perry. Mark adores both of them. I wonder what changes God might have in store for my husband’s ministry. Yet, again, I believe we are blessed. The Perry’s have enriched my life.

Mark and the boys wanted to take me out for Sunday dinner but I didn’t want to fight the crowds. I just wanted a still day with my sons. I had baked a big hen on Friday evening and had put it in the refrigerator. I told Mark that I wanted to come home and cook some veggies and eat here. So, that’s what we did. I made stir fry fresh green beans, summer squash with sweet Vidalia onions chopped in them and baked potatoes.

I didn’t tell Mark this but whenever we eat summer squash, I think about his daddy. Mark’s daddy loved to garden. He grew the most wonderful squash, beans, peas, and watermelon. I am thankful for sweet memories. I am blessed.

Today at church, I was one of two moms who had four children. So, we each won a bouquet of roses because we were the moms with the most children. When I sat down, my friend who sits next to me in choir, leaned over and said, “I didn’t know that you had four children.” I just smiled and nodded. Smiles can be such a façade. She didn’t know the pain behind that smile. Thankfully, by the end of service she had forgotten her question and didn’t seek me out to ask more questions. I was blessed.

Oh, back to our dinner. Mark wanted to know if I had everything needed to finish dinner. I told him that I only needed the ingredients to make my strawberry cake. We stopped at the grocery store, and purchased fresh berries, sour cream, whipped topping and cake mix. The cake is made. Paul came in the kitchen when I was icing it and ended up helping me complete the cake. This cake was my sweet daughter’s favorite cake. It was the one she’d request for her birthday. While the memories are sweet, they also bring sorrow. But, God is good and He gives me strength to endure.

My thoughts and emotions are so mixed today, yet, I have an assurance. My Christ loves me and my family. I choose daily to trust in His love. I am blessed.


Michael and Me


Paul and Me


Being Silly


Paul, me and Michael


Mark and the boys


Mark and Me: two very tired parents!

Hearing God in the Silence

As we travel our life’s journey, we can get enticed by the glitter and glamour of the world. Our eyes are drawn to bright lights and our ears begin to listen to strange music. This infatuation with the world begins early in our lives often starting when we are but babies in the crib staring at the mobile spinning round our heads. We become accustomed to noise and forget that in silence we often find sweet repose.

Silence can be unnerving and the source of discomfort for many individuals. Yet, the scripture informs us that God speaks in a still small voice. When I recall some of the most touching moments in my life, they didn’t take place under bright lights and loud music but in calm stillness. I remember whispering in my babies’ ears as I rocked them to sleep that I loved them. Holding those wonderful gifts from my God were precious and memorable times.

I remember the first time that Mark told me that he loved me. He said it in a soft voice while his arms were wrapped around me. He didn’t shout it at the top of his lungs but quietly told me with a sincerity that I knew was real and lasting.

As mere mortal men and women, we understand that often the most cherished things in life are said during peaceful, quiet moments. Yet, we frequently wonder why we can’t hear the voice of the Father amidst the chaos and confusion of our lives.

The past week, I have been able to be still and listen. I have had the time to seek my Father in quiet moments. As I began to plan activities for today, I realized that I had a peace and joy. This joy wasn’t because of the tasks that I had laid out to do, since usually cleaning the refrigerator, microwave and changing the bed lines doesn’t excite me, but because I had a sense of His Divine Presence and His Perfect Peace.

During my sweet husband’s sermon on Sunday, he spoke of doing all things (from the great to the small) as unto God. That part of his message came back to me this morning. All things we do as unto Christ whether singing in a service if front of hundreds or cleaning the oven. Our attitude is so important because it is a reflection of the condition of our heart.

Heavenly Father,

Allow my heart reflect your loving presence in my life. Please let my actions, words and decisions show others how much I love and trust You.

Please watch over all of my children this day. Guide the steps of Christi, Bobby, Michael and Paul. Cover them with Your love and protection. Restore this family.

Be with and protect my dear husband this day. Give him joy and laughter.

In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.

Diplomas

After starting and stopping and starting and stopping, I finally managed to complete a college degree. This has been a desire of mine for years. However, due to life's circumstances, it got put on hold several times. I received my diploma in in the mail with an official graduation date of April 4, 2008 which was one day after my fiftieth birthday. Mark bought me a frame for it.

Well, I went into the office with it and looked at the available wall space. LOL We have a large window on one wall the back wall is lined with bookcases and over the desk is "Mark's shrine" (LOL).

Mark's wall!


Now, granted, I hung all of those diplomas, ordinations, and awards up to honor my sweet husband. This man means the world to me. I am proud of him and can't imagine my life without him.

A favorite picture of my Wonderful Husband and me!


Spring Concert at Brewton Parker College


However, back to me and my diploma, I then turned to the remaining wall and managed to find a small space to hang my diploma over the piano along with other stuff of Mark's - his antique music and a cross-stitch that I made for him when our sons, Bobby and Michael, were young.

Finally, my little lonely Diploma!

Renaissance peasant Paul

SONS

The things that we do for our children sometimes amaze me. Paul had told Mark and me about the Renaissance costume he needed for school sometime last week but he added, “Don’t worry mom, I know exactly what I am going to be and wear. I am going to be a peasant – simple and easy.” I thought that meant he had his costume ready.

Monday night, while eating supper before rushing out the door to get to revival services where Mark is leading the worship, I nonchalantly asked Paul what he was wearing for his costume and what day was he supposed to wear it.

He begins describing to me how he is going to make his costume. I asked him what shirt and pants he was using to do this. He innocently replied, “Oh, I don’t have the clothes to use, you have to go buy them for me.”

Shock. I asked him, again, when he needed this costume and he replied, “Wednesday. I wear it to school on Wednesday.”

The last time I checked this small southern town doesn’t sell Renaissance peasant costumes. My plan changed – totally – for both Monday evening and Tuesday day. A friend called and wanted to know if I would grab dinner with her, I told her that I had just finished eating. So, we decided I would go with her and watch her eat while I drank something. Then, we went to Wally world where I bought fabric and a pattern.

Tuesday, I started preparing the pattern to cut out Paul’s costume at 7:30 AM. My phone kept ringing off the hook. I had originally planned to make him: pants, shirts, hat and shoes and if I had time (what was I thinking?) a vest. I got the pants and shirt completed before I had to get ready to leave the house at 3:00. I finished the shoes last night after revival services. He didn’t get a hat or vest. LOL

Here’s a picture of him. He wouldn’t smile for me because he told me that he was a poor and sad peasant. BTW, he really liked his costume.

Looking sad and poor.


Finally a smile.

My Amazing God

Today, He revealed His amazing care and guidance to me, again. Why do I go through periods of doubt? I have been praying for His direction and for His still small voice to lead me in the direction that He would have me to pursue.

This morning, I was chatting to my Father God. I say “chatting to” because that’s what I was doing. I was just telling Him my feelings and thoughts and not really expecting to hear anything specific from Him. But then both suddenly and gently, He spoke to my spirit. I was telling Him that I knew, practically, that I needed to try and get hired by a school to teach next year but that my heart’s desire was to spend time on my writing and to try and get published as a Christian author.

I stopped chatting for a moment because I was, even while talking to God, doing my usual multi-tasking as I sat at my computer. I had opened my emails and there were several that I needed to read. But, God only needs a moment to claim our attention. I felt my spirit stirred and the thought, not my thought, came to me, “Debbie, you can do both.” I realized that God had stopped whatever He was doing and was speaking to me.

Tears welled up in my eyes, not because of the message, but because my Father had spoken to me. He could have told me, “Take the dog outside or feed the cat,” and I would have been just as moved. However, He spoke to my deep desire. He had been listening to me as I was mindlessly rambling away.

I had my first official job interview this morning at a local elementary school. I was preparing to go while still very undecided about the path that I needed to pick for next school year. I prayed that God would be with me during the interview and just let the experience be a positive one for those involved.

That was my only attitude as I went into this interview. I wanted to be in the Will of my Father. The interview was possibly the most enjoyable one in which I have ever participated. The principal was affirming and encouraging. She was open and caring. And, she unofficially offered me a position teaching fifth grade language art. This position would include reading, writing, grammar, and spelling. (I know a shocker for those of you who read my blog and have witnessed my grammar and spelling skills!) She has to check my references to make it official.

I told her that I would accept the position if she officially offers it. Needless to say, my entire morning seemed blessed. I left the interview on cloud nine and believing that my God was truly in control and concerned about me. As I neared our home, the thought popped into my brain, “What about Paul?” Mark and I have been trying to decide if we were going to let him continue in public school or go back to being homeschooled. Again, God spoke. The thought, “Paul will be fine. It’s under My control.”

I was broadly smiling as I was driving down the road. I was filled with a sense of my Lord’s peace and presence. He had clearly spoken to me twice in one day in a matter of hours. I had been telling Him that I needed Him just come sit with me on my sofa and speak to me about my future and the plans that I should follow. And while, He wasn’t sitting on my sofa sharing a cup of coffee, He had spoken.

Today has been an amazing day. I have truly felt the presence of my God all day long. I am blessed. God is good and His mercy is ever present in our lives. God revealed an important truth to me today. He is always speaking. He is always directing. He is always trustworthy. I am not always listening, following and trusting. I become entangled by the many voices of the world and allow those voices to block out His precious perfect Voice. I forget how much He loves me and my family. I forget but God doesn’t forget.



Father God,

Today make your face to shine upon me and my loved family. Guide our steps. Give us courage. Speak to us with soft words and shape our lives with your loving hands. Show us how to walk in trust and in faith. I pray these things through the name of your beloved son, Christ Jesus.

Amen

Getting to Know You!

I've been tagged by Kearsmom to play a “Who Are You?” Meme.- The rules of the game get posted at the beginning.- Each player answers the questions about themselves.- At the end of the post, the player then tags 5 people, posts their names, and then leaves a comment on their blogs, letting them know they've been tagged.

What was I doing 10 years ago?
Mark planned me a surprise 40th birthday party that ended up getting moved to a basement because of tornadoes!
I was still homeschooling Michael and Paul. Paul was doing kindergarten and Michael high school.
Mark was in full-time ministry.
I was thinner. LOL

5 Things On My To-Do List Today:
Well, today is just about over; however, I did my last day of Student Teaching. That was about all the things on my list. 5:30 comes really early. I also showered ate breakfast, lunch and dinner and picked up Paul from school.

5 Things I Would Do If I Were a Billionaire:
1. I would give to several ministries - I would dig a well in Africa or several. I would give to the Mission Board several thousand dollars.
2. I would hire a detective.
3. Buy a house and new cars.
4. Take all of my friends and loved ones on a cruise so that everyone could meet each other.
5. Start a retreat center for ministers and their families who have been hurt by churches.

5 Bad Habits:
1. Eating.
2. Not exercising.
3. Not ironing like I should.
4. Not dusting enough.
5. Staying up late when I need to be in bed.

5 Places I Have Lived:
1. Warren, Michigan
2. Brentwood, Tennessee
3. Murfreesboro, Tennessee
4. Rome, Georgia
5. Louisville, Kentucky
6. Arcadia, Florida

5 Jobs I Have Had
1. Waitress
2. School secretary
3. Accounts Payable Clerk
4. Private Piano Teacher
5. Hotel Clerk

5 Tags:
1. Deborah
2. Luska
3. Texee
4. Jennie
5. Swanny

I am officially done with this degree!!!!!

This has been a long road and lots of work but it's finally completed. I remember looking at the work load for various classes and thinking - no way!! But, with God there is always a way. God has been so gracious to me through this entire process. He is my source of wisdom and strength. Praise be His Name.

Western Governors University sent me an email on Thursday, April 3 (my birthday) and said that I was finished with all requirements and could file for graduation. So, my college mentor sent me the form and I filled it out and sent it back to the school. I was told that this process would take at least two weeks. However, on Saturday, April 5, my mentor forwarded me an email telling me that I had officially graduated with a Bachelor of Arts IN Interdisciplinary Students PK-8. I was shocked to receive that email so quickly. I am expecting my transcripts and diploma in the mail this week. All of the state tests have been passed and I am now completing the final application for certification.

Now, more news......... let's see. I turned the big 50 last week. Totally depressing. I really had no idea it would hit me so hard. Mark threw me a small surprise party while down in Florida on Tuesday evening. I am posting pictures for that evening. Friends came with sweet gifts like black roses, over-the-hill cards and ribbons, pantie liners for irregular bladders, and an array of other thoughtful gifts. Despite the gifts, the evening was pleasant.

We were back home in Georgia on my real birthday on Thursday. The boys gave me some movies. Mark gave me a beautiful watch and a nice camera. Then, they took me out to Ruby Tuesdays for dinner. I wanted to order lots of appetizers and share them for our meal. It was yummy.

Easter 2008: Michael

Easter 2008: Paul

Surprise 50th Party in Florida
Here is the old woman trying to read!

The Owens, Paul and me

The Prices, Mark and me

Linda, me, Mark and Doug

March 18, 2007

I turned in my LAST paper for this degree today. It was a short reflection. I have to make one more Cohort call next week and that’s it. I am in week 10 of Student Teaching. I will teach one more week and then have spring break and come back and do observations of different grades my last week. My final day is April 11. My host teacher asked me to come back to proctor her Georgia required testing near the end of April and I told her that I would.

All this to say…….. I have completed all of my requirements! I am thrilled. This has been lots of work but I see the light at the end of the tunnel. I made the right choice in deciding to get this degree. God has been gracious in providing me with time and wisdom. My precious husband has been super supportive. I am so grateful for Mark’s love and encouragement throughout this entire process.

I told Mark that I am NOT going to know what to do with myself after I get done Student Teaching. What will it be like to have free time? This is the question to which I look forward to finding the answer! I hope that I can work on my devotion book.

Blessings,
Debbie

Waiting..................

Although, I really enjoy TEACHING and will probably try to get a position for next year, I am trying to figure out how to fulfill my calling which includes being a Women's conference speaker and writer. I am in prayer.

I am planning on contacting a dear friend and a member of a church where we served at in Rome, GA who has this type of Ministry. I want to pick her brain and try to figure out my next steps.

If God leads me to take a teaching position next year to help out financially - I will do that without complaint. However, I have been very faithful in pursuing and nearly getting this degree which I fully believe God called me to do. When I started this degree, I was working on some devotions and wanting to really begin a speaking and teaching ministry.

However during all of that, I truly felt like I heard from my Father to FINALLY complete this degree that I had started so many years ago. I think that He led me to do this for a couple of reasons. First, I have always felt like a failure because I never completed my college degree. There was a deep need within me that God knew and understood me and those feelings. Secondly, I believe that He instructed me to go to school in order to prove Himself strong in my life.

I have tried to remain positive. When I was originally supposed to start (I had enrolled and paid) Paul had a severe asthma attack and was airlifted to an out-of-town hospital. I had to begin the following January instead of that August. One of my friends wondered if God was telling me that He didn’t want me to pursue this degree. That suggestion pained me. My God will use circumstances to direct us but He is never the author of evil. I felt that Satan was attacking my son, family and me.

I know beyond all that is in me, that God has literally carried me through this degree. He has given me wisdom and time and a husband who has supported me tremendously. He (God) may want me to teach school. Yet, I know the desire of my heart and I believe that God will open doors and windows and direct me as to exactly how He is going to fulfill my calling. I also believe that God puts those desires within us if we stay at one with Him.

If not for my faith and my dear husband’s faith, this family and our marriage would not have survived. Yet, we have survived and our marriage is a strong testament to God’s grace and His love. I think that God can use my life to speak to and bless other women about His faith and strength when all seems lost.

Right now, I am waiting. Waiting to see where God opens doors. The high school principal has told Mark that he would hire me but I would have to take more GACE tests to get certified in High School. That is an option. I know that there will be positions open in the elementary schools in my area. Those are options. But, I am hoping and praying that God opens now the windows of heaven and allows me to begin a ministry as a conference speaker and teacher.

I have even thought about applying at some local churches to see if they need a Minister of Education. I am waiting.

Blessings,
Debbie

Beginning to see the LIGHT!!

The past two days have been extremely productive for me in the way of school papers! I have managed to write and submit four papers which were nearly forty pages of writing. My grades were posted this morning and I have passed all the assignments with good grades and nice comments. I have two more Teacher Work Samples to prepare and write. After those last two are graded, I will be able to load everything into my portfolio.

Tomorrow, I plan on writing up my Science Unit that I am doing with my class for the next couple of weeks. It should be fun and I hope that they will enjoy it. And, I have to plan my all of my lessons (that I will be teaching) for at least the next week.

Paul is playing in a concert tonight. Maybe, I'll remember my camera and post some pictures tomorrow. His band is doing a spaghetti supper fund raising today.

Michael has started editing his short film that he wrote and directed over at his college. I can't wait to see it. It's supposed to be about 5 minutes long. I think that he told me that he still have to film the last scene.

Well, I guess I need to just start writing after I compile all of this data from the post assessment.

Blessings to ALL!!
Debbie

So, how many assignments have I completed today?

NONE!!! Ugh! Yesterday was a busy day with church and then having to drive back to Twin City for the Valentine Banquet. We got home last night after 9 PM.

Today, I went to the orthodontist and then to the dentist and then got my nails done. (LOL, I guess the nails were a fun thing for me to do but not a necessary thing!) I came home and talked with my College Adviser. Mark had a doctor's appointment this afternoon to get his blood pressure checked and our PA put him on a diet. Maybe, both of us will lose weight.

My dentist office called and wanted to know if I could get Paul there real quick because they had a cleaning cancellation. I had to cancel Paul's cleaning two weeks ago when he was so sick. So, we rushed back to the dentist and he got his teeth cleaned. He needs the bottom wisdom teeth pulled and one filling, so I scheduled two more appointments for him.

Now, I am home. I rented "Becoming Jane". After my Cohort call tonight, I plan on watching it. I hope it's good. I guess today was my real day off. Well, I did talk through some lesson plans with Lauri for my science unit. I tried calling my friend, Deborah during the day on Saturday, but her line stayed busy for hours. I wonder if it was busy or taken off the hook? LOL Deborah is a homeschooler and she had offered to give me some suggestions for this unit that I am working on for my First graders.

I was very glad to talk with Gay, my Adviser. She really assured me about my teaching practices and strategies. She has been reading my Reflections and KNOWS what I am up against with my Clinical Supervisor.

I have been battling either depression or sadness or disappointment. I tried to talk with Mark and his advise, though godly, didn't help me. I am struggling with lots of feelings of longings and hopes and dreams that haven't or will never be fulfilled. I am hoping to spend some time in the Word this week. I have been so busy lately, I haven't been studying and mediating except when it's my turn to teach the Adult Sunday school class. Perhaps, my depression stems from being out of deep prayer and study with my Father. Mark keeps telling me to enjoy the journey and that is normally my stance on life. However, with so many changes and seasons changing in my life right now, I am struggling with this journey.

I had so hoped for a great Student Teaching experience and that's simply not the case. I have stayed stressed out and on edge most days. That really wasn't my plan. My students seem to love me and I know that I love and pray for all of them. Perhaps, God is wanting me to just focus on them and forget trying to please the clinical supervisor. I am tired of jumping through hoops only to be slapped.

Well, I am going to find the phone number for my Cohort call. Perhaps, I will hear a Word from God and be changed. If anyone read this cry-baby post, I should send you some chocolate.

Blessings,
Debbie

Winter Break

I am thrilled because I do not have to Student Teach next week. The elementary school is on winter break. I do have six involved college tasks to submit and 12 reflections for my Cohort class. I find that the Cohort call and reflections are a waste of precious time. I also have to write up some lesson plans for school and prepare and write this science unit that I will be teaching. So, while I get a break from daily teaching, I will be staying extremely busy.

Monday I have an orthodontist and dentist appointment. Fun.

Mark is off this next week, too. I hope that we can steal away for a few lunches out during the week.

I have completed the first six weeks of Student Teaching and I am SO very glad.

Paul played in his very first official soccer game this morning. Mark and I were there to cheer on our Jr. Varsity team. They lost. But, it was still cool to see them play. The first half of the game, our team seemed out of rhythm. However, the last half of the game they really came together and did a tremendous job.

My favorite show is back on television - LOST!!! It's my little escape from reality.

Well, I need to run. I hope everyone had a sweet Valentine's day.

Blessings,
Debbie

Update on me.

This has been a busy several weeks. I began my Student Teaching on January 7, 2008. The principal placed me with a kindergarten teacher. I really enjoyed this teacher and her class; however, my college does not accept kindergarten placements. He left me there for one week and then placed me in a first grade classroom.

Totally different styles and personalities of the students and the teachers but I am enjoying my class. My new host teacher is a sweetie and I really like her. Mark taught two of her sons in his Middle school band last year. Her husband is Homeschooling them this year. She is a Christian and so we share a common faith.

I have 16 students in my class and while some are super sweet, a couple of them know how to try your patience. LOL There are ten boys and six girls in my class. I have been teaching math for the last three weeks and doing the morning routine. The past two weeks, I have been teaching Language arts and this week the editing (morning message) and Social Studies was added to my responsibilities.

I think that it is going okay except my Clinical Supervisor stresses me out completely. Most of the teachers have told me that she does this to all of them. Sigh. WGU pays for someone to be my Clinical Supervisor (from my INCREASED tuition during Student Teaching) and the college allows the principal to choose the person if he/she wants. WGU recommends a retired classroom teacher. My principal chose his Curriculum Specialist.

I have completed three of my six observations with her. Y’all will hear me scream when I don’t have to deal with her anymore. My host teacher has told me that I am doing a great job. And, I appreciate her support and encouragement.

Paul and I both have been sick this week. So not fun. I went to work yesterday morning only to have to leave. I went to our PA and he put me on some meds and hopefully, I will be on the mend and feeling good by sometime this week-end.

I have several papers to write for my college Cohort and class. I also have to write up my two week unit to go into my Portfolio. I am also writing a two week science unit. My friend, Lauri, has given me some great suggestions for that unit. As I have my students do it, I will post pictures.

Well, I need to go and lay down.

Blessings,
Debbie

My life is fixing to change...........

Changes. Changes are often difficult; yet, as we live on this old earth we will face changes. Changes. Our children grow up. We move to a new location. Loved ones die or move away. Changes.

King Solomon talked about changes in Ecclesiastes 3:

1 To every [thing there is] a season, and a time to
every purpose under the heaven:

2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,

3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,

4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,

5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,

6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,

7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,

8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

The past few years have brought about many changes in my life and in our family. We moved back to Georgia after living in Florida for seven years. I went back to college. Paul decided to start attending public school. Now, I am getting ready to start Student Teaching next Monday. Changes.

I have been telling Mark that my life is changing again and I am not sure if I am ready for the changes. I wish I could slow down time. I wish I had the years back when Christi, Bobby, Michael and Paul were babies. I would live this live again because despite the sorrow, my God has never left me.

There were times when I felt alone and forsaken but looking back I see that I was never alone. God always surrounded me with his loving children who took our family under their wings and displayed the love of God in our lives.

People will fail and disappoint but God never fails. He uses those sorrows to shape and mold us into his image. The point of our lives is to display the love of Christ to those around us.

Change is like the seasons. Winter must come before the spring. Summer's heat gives way to fall's breeze and coolness. Our lives are like those seasons. We have to embrace each one in order to be ready for the next.

I wish I could homeschool my sons again. I would do it so differently. I would focus only on them. I wouldn't be consumed with the minor things of life. I wouldn't worry about tomorrow but I would see the joy in every moment spent with them.

Life is so very precious. Our children, family and friends are so very precious. We need to live our lives with no regret for the words we speak, or the thoughts we have. We need to keep our hearts and minds focused on Christ and his desire for us.

A few pictures in Tennessee at Mark's Mom's.

Grandma and Michael


Mark and his mom


Grandma and Paul


Playing Monopoly

Christmas eve....... hanging stockings......

I left our stockings at home, so Michael hung a doggie stocking and Paul a giant ugly one. Neither my sons or Lauri's kids wanted these photos made. Too bad!

Christmas pictures........

A few Christmas 2007 Photos!

Posting a couple of Christmas pictures for Deborah.

I didn't decorate much this year. But here are a few photos!

My piano Christmas party.........

Here's a group shot of some of my students. They all seemed to have a good time. Once everyone got here, they played their Christmas pieces on the piano. Then, I finished putting out our spread (which I forgot to take pictures of but it was pretty) One of my students prayer over the food and then everyone ate.

Oh, my final menu for the party was:
Sausage Balls
Pigs-in-a-blanket
Meatballs in BBQ sauce
Chips
Veggie tray with ranch dressing
Pickles
Chex Mix
Iced sugar cookies
Chocolate chip and nut cookies
Chocolate/peanut butter fudge
Divinity
Dipped pretzels
Brownies
A Christmas punch

You could not tell from the weather that it is December. Everyone ate out on the screened in porch. After we ate, we came in and I gave the students their gifts and opened my presents from them.

I am freezing lots of cookies to carry up to Lauri's house. I have all the Christmas baking done that I plan in doing. Well, I may make some Cranberry orange loaves. I found a recipe and now I just need to find it, again. I bought the cranberries to make the bread. LOL

HoHoHo and Merry Christmas to All!!!

Blessings,
Debbie

Big Band Christmas music playing......

Cookies baking, lights on the tree........

I love this time of year.

I am always amazed at the hope of the season. Even with the deep longing for my children, I have hope because of my Lord. This is the time we celebrate God becoming a man and living among us.

I love the name....... Emmanuel .... God with us.

Blessings,
Debbie

Assignments are all submitted to WGU!!!!

I finally got my last assignment written up and submitted to my college before I begin Demonstration Teaching in January. I am thrilled to pieces. I can now finish getting ready for the holidays with a little less weight on my shoulders.

This is such a busy time of year without having to worry about school assignments.

I have lots to do but not school. Anyway, sharing my joy!

Blessings,
Debbie

Hohoho!!! I hope this works.

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Blessings,
Debbie

My thoughts this evening.....

As we were driving home a little while ago, Paul had the group Yellow Card on the stereo. They were singing a song that contained the words, “Do You Remember When?” My mind started reliving all my years with this man that God gave to me as a husband. It went back to all the firsts. I was lost in thought and overwhelmed with my emotions and was saddened about how quickly our life together is flying by. We have had sorrow and heartache more than I ever thought that I would have to endure; yet, by God’s grace, we have endured. We have also experienced great joy and laughter. I remember the day each of our children were born and the day I picked up Paul. What amazing joy!

Tears swelled up in my eyes, as I realized that since we have already been married twenty-eight years, and we may not live to see another twenty-eight. Silently, I thanked God for this man. I adore my husband. He has always been my friend as well as my lover. God has blessed me beyond measure.

Young wives love your husbands and treasure each moment that God gives you with them. Don’t get caught up on the temporal things in this life. Life moves by all too quickly. Take time everyday to build your relationship with your husband. Enjoy each other.

Blessings,
Debbie


Our Wedding Day, December, 1979


Our Vacation this Summer, June, 2007

My new Christmas quilt and other ramblings.

My friend, Linda, from Florida surprised me by FedExing me a Christmas quilt. I just love it. I thought that I would share a photo of it.



I got my official scores on the GACE exams. That was such a wonderful feeling. I passed my last objective test with WGU for my degree program on Wednesday morning. I have gotten one of my six assignments completed and submitted yesterday. It only took me five hours. LOL

I am hoping to finish another one today. That will leave me with four to get done. My adviser told me not to kill myself trying to finish them all by tomorrow. So, I will work on them over the week-end and the beginning of next week.

Merry Christmas! Tomorrow is December 1. Sunday is the first week of advent. Mark bought a new Christ candle a week ago but I have to go and buy the tapers for the advent wreath. Our tree is up and I am so glad. We have a busy schedule over the next three weeks. I have lots of my Nativities out. I love Christmas. It's my favorite holiday.

Blessings,
Debbie

I passed my GACE exams!!

I got my unofficial test scores in an email yesterday. That feels like a huge weight lifted off of me.

Tomorrow, I take my last proctored test for this degree. Now, I need to study for it. I also have to complete 6 more assignments by Friday night.

The GACE exams were two sets of the area content for Elementary education.

Blessings,
Debbie

Thanksgiving..... thanks!

Today was Thanksgiving! It seems like yesterday when we were celebrating the last Thanksgiving. I am so blessed because God is so good to me. Today, has been sweet. The weather has been lovely with the fall colors proclaiming the artistry of God. This first photo is one of Paul earlier today in the backyard.



This photo is of Paul cooking the green beans. He loves fresh stir fried beans. And, he's a pretty good cook.


This photo is of the boys and me. Not the greatest photo, but I thought that I would post it anyway.


I spent all day yesterday cooking our feast. It was just our family this year. Today has been pleasant. I made quiche and grapefruit compote in rosemary syrup last night for our brunch today. After our brunch, Mark and I put the turkey in the roaster and while it was baking, we all played Pictionary. Mark and I beat the boys! The turkey got done quicker than I was expecting, so we all got busy and finished the last minute dinner items (mashed potatoes, gravy, fresh green beans) while the cornbread dressing and sweet potatoes baked in the oven.

Later, Mark and I watched the movie, "Amazing Grace." I highly recommend it.

Today has been a day of gratefulness. I am so thankful.

Love,
Debbie

Today........ has been fun!

I got to meet Miss Jean from my ChristianMoms board. Our families met for lunch.

And, Paul decided to get his hair cut short! I couldn't believe it! Here are some photos from the day!

Me and Miss Jean


Our families.


Paul getting his hair cut.


Paul and Missy after his cut.


After the hair cut, Mark and I went grocery shopping and finished picking up the last things that I needed to make our Thanksgiving dinner.

Then, we came home and this evening watched "Hairspray".

Blessings,
Debbie

Bobby

Tomorrow my oldest son will turn 26 years old. I remember the day that precious child was born. He was a doll. I couldn’t get over all of his dark hair and huge blue eye. I remember crying when they told me he was a boy because my first thought was what would I do if he ever got drafted? ? Just the thought of the possibility of not knowing where he was or if he was safe caused me pain. Yet, I have had to live with unknowing since 1989.

Bobby was always happy. He never met a stranger. He would walk up to people and introduce himself and ask them if they had gone to church that morning!

He was my climber. I remember after the children got their swing set, I ran into the house for a minute to do something in the kitchen. I looked out the kitchen window and Bobby was sitting on top of the swing set. I went running out the back door totally afraid my precious child was going to fall off it.

I never go a day without thinking of my Christi and Bobby. I pray that God grants me my deepest desire, to see my children again in this life and for our family to be whole and reunited.

Tomorrow, I will weep. I will remember and I will pray. I will pray that God has blessed my son with joy and happiness. I pray that Bobby has found a lovely wife and that he has a child that he loves as much as I have always loved him. I pray that his life is filled with joy and that someday, he remembers his mom and dad and our life together before my parents stole him.

Moving Along with school...........

Because I know y'all are dying to know... NOT!! LOL

I know for sure where I will be Demonstration Teaching in January - just not the teacher or grade yet. I requested 3rd grade. We shall see what they give me.

My FBI background clearance finally got completed and I have mailed a copy to my school (along with my NEA membership) and taken a copy to the School Board. I had to join the NEA in order to get their liability coverage.

I am waiting for my last task in Teaching Math and Science to be graded.

I have only completed one task in Teaching Reading and Spelling.

I had a headache yesterday which put me further behind than I intended. For some reason these reading and writing tasks look horrible to me. Now, everyone (my mentor and the other students) says that the Math and Science tasks are the worse.

Well, I kind of liked doing those. LOL And, my grades were all really good on those tasks, too.

I will not find out my Content area GACE exams (state ones) until Nov. 27.

I take my LAST objective test with WGU on Nov. 28. I have taken and passed the pre-assessment with a high score, so I am not as worried about that test as I was.

Today, I have to clean my house and TRY to get serious about these tasks.

Then, I pick up Paul from school and take him to tutoring. Hopefully, Michael will stay at Brewton Parker and drive him home for me because Mark and I have a meeting (at our house) this evening.

Blessings,
Debbie

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Go take a look!!!

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Blessings,
Debbie

Saturday, November 3.... update.

Somebody tell me why at probably one of the most stressful and busy times in my life, do I decide to make a Martha Stewart sausage stew recipe that is served in little baked pumpkins? I must be insane. Or, my mind has turned to mush and I no longer possess the ability to think logically.

Anyway, I did do part of this recipe on Thursday. I soaked the beans and cooked them and then put those in the refrigerator. The presentation was lovely. But, the stew was so hot that all three of us were screaming. Anyway, I took pictures to show off my hard work. I hope y'all enjoy the pictures. Michael has been at the college all day. I guess he ate there. He's helping to make a movie.




I have managed to complete 8 papers this week! I have to complete the equivalent of 12 semester hours this month in order to Demonstration Teach in January. The school changed the time requirements on me after accepting me into the January DT cohort. I am treating college like a full-time job with horrible pay.

I hope that everyone else is having a lovely Saturday. I just may call it quits and not do another assignment since it's now 10:00 PM.

Blessings,
Debbie