HOLLY MANIA!!!

Time Flys!

2011-10-17T12:29:00.002-04:00

WOW!

Just cleaning up my email account and changing some things, when I find this here blog that has been quiet since Oct 2009! 2 whole years with nothing new! It was great to look back at the pictures and the posts...wow!

Everyone looks so different. Well, the kids do anyway. They are growing up - and FAST!

I will have to try and upload some pictures. But now most are on Facebook, so I'm not too sure how to move them. We shall see!

Anyway...Happy FALL 2011!! =0)

Great Family, Great Friends GREAT TIMES!

2009-10-30T14:03:00.019-04:00

Here's some pictures of things...Looking back at just a few things I did this year, and counting my blessings for family and friends and time together. I noticed I don't have all my good friends here, but I couldn't find photos of some and I don't even have one of me and my husband together...Maybe we should either spend more time together, or just take some pictures while we are?!?!? Who knows? Anyway I sooooo enjoyed all these wonderful times and am glad I have memories and great pictures to help me remember them since I am getting soooo old and forget easily! I am VERY thankful for all these great people! Enjoy!

Reds Game 2009-Toni, Will, Me & Angi
OVERNIGHTER! Animel and me at overnight for my kids!
FROZEN ICEES LEAVE BEAUTIFUL TONGUES! Rosa, Toni & Sonny ~ Camp 2009

TONY AT CAMP! What can I say???

I CAN PICK GREAT FRIENDS, CAN'T I???? Dellmo, Briano, Jimbo Camp 2009
TONI & WILL Church picnic
GENEVA & KENDALL (HAPPY BIRTHDAY!)5th grade outing
ME & T after her play.
City gang and families at Loveland Castle ~ Oct. 09
My boys and my mom ~ Sean, Mary Ann & William
My friend Savvy while we were in Columbus working at the Lifeline Christian Mission warehouse
Me, Emily, Alicia & Heidi at Vineyard for Beth Moore similcast
Rosa & Layna tailgating before the Bengals game.
Me and my new friend... Marvin Lewis, at Football 101
My friend Rosa (again) at Football 101

SURPRISE!!

2009-07-21T15:37:00.003-04:00

Guess what????? So much has been going on here that it has been very difficult to keep up. Plus, well, there's Facebook! Most of the interesting things are on there, or at least some...heres a recap of some I missed on here. (well, the most recent!)

No, really...this is all I have time for today...xcept...Sara thanks again for the cookies!!!! YEA!!!!! I even shared!

Wow...Slow again...Pictures of the MONTH!!!

2009-02-26T10:06:00.008-05:00

We had snow!!!

Beautiful Sunrises!

Rock & Bowl sponsored by our LCC TEENS!

GAME ON!

Overnighter for our K-5th graders

And...lots of Silly String!!!

This is Dedicated to the one I love!!!

2009-02-05T11:50:00.001-05:00

Lazer Tag & 12 Ordinary Men

2009-02-03T13:44:00.007-05:00

We have started the 12 Ordinary Men curriculum along with "Big Church" and are learning all about Jesus' 12 disciples. Kurt and Alicia teach about the disciple Peter.

Alicia nets a Big Catch!!!

Lazer Kraze Time!!

We had a GREAT night lazer tagging with everyone! We had 39 people!!! There was a limit of 40...if I could have only played too! I missed being able to be inside with all the action!

There was lots going on in the game area too! Everyone had a GREAT time! Next year we just might have to have 2 groups going at 20 minute intervals!!!

Can't Wait!!

WOW!!!

2009-01-13T10:19:00.003-05:00

I think I could type FOREVER about all the great things going on! Unfortunately that would take up way to much time and I wouldn't get all the stuff I need to do done! So...here's just a few!

The Children's Pastors Conference was AMAZING...as always!! It is a wonderful "pick me up" and it is always great to have to rejuvenate my soul for the new year! It was even better to share it with Jen and Vicki! Thanks girls for hanging around with me!!! Let's do it again!!! :)

Mom is doing a bit better at The Lodge! Doesn't that sound like she's at some ski resort??? She's actually standing and walking a bit. The feeling in her leg and stuff has not come back, but I am praying that her recovery will be enough to live back at home someday!

We are having our annual lazer tag night next week!!! woooo hooo!!!

Our new curriculum and coincides with BIG Church has begun with great things already happening for our families! I can't wait to see what will happen next!!! Jill led our kick off this past Sunday and Kurt and Alicia will lead this week talking about our first disciple, Peter.

Our Park Patrol kids have been learning all the new songs and helping to fix up our puppets! They led worship for their parents and other NP-3 leaders...it was great! They did wonderfully!

I'm excited that the Women's Bible Study is beginning next Tuesday! I want to keep my living water filled to help me with my everyday life and craziness...we all need it!!! Thank you Alicia for your servants heart and passion to help us all keep our glasses filled and overflowing!!!

We are having a "LCC Parent's Date Night" to help pay for our hotel when the 4th & 5th graders go to SuperStart! Check out the website or get a flyer Sunday for more information!

AND...I AM STARTING TO WORK ON OUR OVERNIGHTER!!! MY FAVORITE!!! Parents get another evening out...just in time for Valentines Day!!! Friday, February 13 & 14!!!

OK...that's just a "small" bit of info of the wonderful life here at LCC! I really gotta get back to work!

Type to you later!

Photo of the week!

2008-12-29T10:07:00.001-05:00

We Sprung Mom for the afternoon. Sunday Lunch at Bob Evans!
Merry Christmas!!!

Photo of the week...

2008-12-12T16:22:00.001-05:00

Just thought I would add a photo. Nothing really new to talk about. I really love my glasses and earrings! Have a GREAT weekend!

THANKS!

2008-12-08T10:44:00.000-05:00

thanks to Chip for fixing my computer!

Yep...I'm gonna try again!

2008-12-08T10:26:00.002-05:00

It's been soooo very long since I wrote on here. I apologize to those who have asked...it's been a bit of a crazy few months and just so I don't sound like I am whinning, I will just pick up from today!

Christmas is only 17 days away!!! I love Christmas though I never get out and shop anymore till the last possible moment. We are cutting way back this year. Both Bill and my family are, and also we are at home. Only necessary and needed items will be bought and one want item...so as always, socks and undies are always a priority!

I remember opening socks when I was younger. We kids always (as we got older) wore our dad's TUBE socks. Do you remember the sports socks that came to your knee and had the different color stripes on them??? If you don't, just wait, they will be back in style again someday! Dad could never find his socks! But...every Saturday morning I remember a huge basket of unmatched socks were dumped on the family room floor for us to sort! I must say those socks were soooo much easier to sort with the different colors! Today...all the white ones with different lengths and names, with logos and different color stitching...it takes forever! At least the dress socks are a bit easier!

We also went much smaller for our tree this year. William and I managed to get it together this past weekend and surprise Bill. It was lots of fun spending that time with him. We are waiting for Bill to put up our lights outside our house. Our old ones have now been retired to Rumpke and hopefully the ones William picked out will brighten up our street. Looks like after the cold we have had it will be warming up this week for enough time for him to get them up.

NP-3 is now getting a Christmas makeover too! I think I get all my decorating out here at the church and always want to skip all the decorating I used to do at home...maybe that will change again someday...we will see.

So, just to say to you all, Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and are working on a great Christmas season too! I MUST get some work done...it just never ends!

Type to you again soon! (I hope!)

YOU HAVE NO IDEA...

2008-10-01T00:44:00.000-04:00

You have no idea just how blessed I am.

You have no idea just how great my family is.

You have no idea just how many wonderful friends God has blessed me with.

You have no idea just how blessed I feel to work with children in our church.

You have no idea just how much I admire and respect my co-workers.

You have no idea just how much I love my God, family, friends, co-workers, and children of our church.

You have no idea just how many times I praise and thank God for all He has given me...

You have no idea...but

He knows...

that's what really matters...

On the ???? day, I rested!

2008-09-13T18:48:00.002-04:00

Well, not exactly all day...yet! But, our NP-3 room is done and I think it's kinda good! Really there are just a few more things that need a little tweaking, but it has to wait for next week. I must say, I am tired!!! ( and very sore...Emily...help!!)

There are some really wonderful people out there that helped to make our room change to an underwater "DEEP" sanctuary. I always go to my friends with a "vision" of what I would like, and after a meeting or two, which usually includes a dinner or lunch, we put a plan together. Thank you sooooooooooooooooo very much Rosa Miller! She is soooo great at painting!! The mural is BEAUTIFUL!! Thank you Cathy Collett! Her submarine is great and will be a big hit for the children when we finish and allow them to go inside! Heidi Constable, Vicki Charles and Geneva Myers thank you for helping me hang all the "water", making it feel like we are really deep in the ocean! William too for helping out moving & hanging stuff. Bill and William for helping out and not giving too much grief because I was gone late into the evening. Thanks to Vic Miller for bringing your drill that sounds like an airplane taking off and helping hang the heavy stuff. Thanks to Brian and Dan for allowing me time to work on some of it during the day also! We have spend lots of time here at the church, but it will all be worth it tomorrow when the kids see the transformation.

The Weber's were here setting up for Sunday school and the kids PUMPED me UP! I was feeling really tired, and sick of blue, when they came...their reactions gave me the energy to finish up and work on music for tomorrow...so here I am, sitting in the office writing and really ready to go home and sleep. Just a few more things to do, then beddy bye, here I come!!!

Please pray for our children and our ministry here at LCC. We have such wonderful kids and I am so very blessed to be able to work with them all. Thank you God!!

Only have a second...

2008-09-09T12:20:00.003-04:00

We are working hard to complete the transformation of our NP-3 area for our kick off this Sunday...it's sooooooo DEEP! I would share pictures, but then it just wouldn't be a surprise, would it?!?!?!?!?

Hopefully everyone is ready for our DEEP celebration! See you right here at LCC this Sunday at 8:45, 10, or 11:15am! All children will be in their new Sunday school classes at the 10am service time, and all the new kindergarteners will be welcomed into NP-3 at 8:45 and/or 11:15am where we use Kidmo. We use our MAP books and other take home activities called "Family Huddles" to reinforce the lesson from each week.

Here is some information about KIDMO...

Front and central to the KIDMO curriculum is the hyper-video-teaching of Johnny Rogers, a rising force in children’s ministry today. As a virtual teacher, Johnny reaches and empowers kids with innovative messages and engaging interactivity all delivered with his fun, fast paced humor.
Each week, kids take home a MAP (Mission Action Plan) study guide that reinforces the principles of that week's teaching video while engaging participants in real life application.
K'Motion is fun and infectious music delivered in video form, well-illustrated with easy movements, lyrics on screen and lots of energy to invite participation.
Kwizmo interactive games designed for lighthearted team competition. Questions, quizzes and challenges -- all reinforcing the week's lesson and Bible verse -- make for a wild and zany time.
Memory Madness makes the team concept more fun and effective through Scripture memorization.

Wow...it's sooooooooooooooo much fun to learn about our GREAT GOD! Come and join us...won't you???????????????

Type to you later!

BUSY...Not on Vacation anymore!

2008-09-02T14:06:00.005-04:00

Ok, so I'm back to real life again. It was hard to leave the calm and restful vacation to jump back into it all again, but now I think I don't even feel like I had a vacation! But this weekend was a 3 day weekend...(if you don't work Sundays) And, of course when you're off work, there's always something that needs to be done at home!

This weekend we painted our porch. Well, Bill has been working on the porch for a month replacing and fixing up boards. We have sanded and scraped for too long. So, one coat is on, one to go!!! And that's only the pillars and railings! We still have to sand the floor and paint it too. It already looks la lot better, but I will be really happy when we are through.

Rosa and I met this weekend to look at the NP-3 room and figure out how we will decorate for DEEP! My mind always goes CRAZY with ideas! I only wish we had the funds to run with them! The next two weeks will be full of late nights and exciting times to get it ready for the 14th fall kickoff.

I have not had the time to put pictures here from the prior weekend. So here are a few. Kelly, Geneva and I went to Indy to see Joyce Meyer. It was a great and relaxing time! It had been a really long time since I had free time to spend with friends. We left on Friday and came back on Saturday, so it definitely could have been longer!

Sean was in town for the weekend too! We headed to Coney Island. Here's Mom & Sean! See the family resemblance??

Then, we invited a Rock Band to our home!!! Check 'em out! We were ROCKIN!!

Ok...see what you get when you keep asking where I've been!

Type to you later!

SOAR

2008-08-23T20:48:00.005-04:00

Tomorrow in NP-3 will be our last day for "Soar" and then there will be a couple of weeks off to prepare for the fall session...

Here's a preview of

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyUr-cSmqwI

Rainy Day with Fay!

2008-08-20T12:12:00.004-04:00

William and I had a lazy day at home (Sean's) today. It was raining off and on, but no real sunshine, except really earlly! So I took this opportunity to clean up a bit, doing laundry, and helping Sean out some.

We also played Wii (William won, of course), watched a movie, and played cards. It's been really great just having some time with William and nothing else going on. We don't get that often...hardly ever.

We are already packing up and ready to move back home :( It has definitely been a great trip. I have had tons of fun with everyone and had many times of relaxation. We didn't get as much sun as we usually do, but that's ok.

I thought I would put a picture of Fay on here. Seems she passed by us with minimal wind, but lots of rain. Looks like she will be going back to the ocean only to return again over Florida. But, as always, no one really knows!

Our flight leaves tonight at 8pm and we will be back in Dayton a little after 10pm. Seems like we will be coming to 85 degrees and sunny weather for Thursday. Of course, it will be back to work...lots to do cause we'll be home again. Thursday is also school check in day too. So it will be a busy day.

oh yea...here is Sean's new car! See you all really soon! Type to you later!

What a GREAT vacation!

2008-08-19T15:44:00.003-04:00

Yes, really! We went to Epcot again and rode some different rides. One called Spaceship Earth, which is in the Epcot ball. You ride all the way up and learn about how the past makes the future. Under the ride you get the chance to help save electricity and other things all made up as games. We didn't stay long. It would be sunny, then rain, be sunny, then rain.

Here are our postcards to the future!

Later, I washed clothes to send Toni home with clean ones, and took her to the airport. She bravely flew alone and Angi & Tony met her at the airport. She had to get back early for Freshman orientation!

We are getting some rain and wind now. Fay is going slower, but throwing out some tornados along the outside rings. I keep watching the radar...I know Brian would love to be in the middle of it somewhere! Even tho lots of things closed here today, it isn't too bad...yet.

Well, it's off to finish washing towels and going to dinner! Type to you later!

Vacation YEA!

2008-08-18T10:06:00.006-04:00

Today was a lazy day! The sun shined all day! We vegged around, played cards, talked with Sean, and went shopping. Oh, and we took out a bush in front of Sean's and replaced it with new plants.

We were shopping for new plants, while Toni found gifts for a couple friends. William was eyeing the cameras, which is what he wants for his birthday. We bought plants & a shovel. A baby gecko was living on the plant, so William caught him and released him to the plants staying at the store. It would have been interesting to chase him around the Hummer! I thought the kids would need it to dig out the plant. Well, I was wrong. Toni started cutting on the branches...William started pulling. He pulled the whole thing out of the ground! Toni did use the shovel tho to dig a new hole for the plants.

We went out for lunch today and the kids (with a small, really small, help from me) beat the Halo game at Sean's. They have been playing it all week and have been on a mission to finish before Toni goes home.

We are still watching and waiting on Fay! Sean is on the hurricane team at Disney. If they close, we will be going with him to one of the Lodges where he will lead a group of characters to entertain the guests while they are closed. They evacuated Key West and Miami...just of the tourists. The people who live there and all the press are still there. I think it is suppose to hit the mainland sometime tonight or tomorrow. I will take any prayers you have for Fay to stay away! Looks like we are in for some really good rain tho!!!

Type to you later!

Saturday...Still on Vacation! YEA!

2008-08-17T09:25:00.008-04:00

And here we are, with another great day in Orlando!

Sean dropped us off at the Contemporary since it was raining. William and Toni did their pin trading thing there, then we rode the monorail to The Polynesian and another resort, that I just can't remember it's name. They were pin trading the whole way! When we made it to Magic Kingdom for Sean to get us in, it had stopped raining and the sun was out. There were a few more sprinkles later, but cleared up and gave way to a nice, hot day!

Now, I'm not one to really worry about a little rain here or there. Seems like we have definitely had more sunshine than rain. But now, many people have text and called to let us know that Fay is on her way! We are watching the radar and I am praying that she does not interfere with our vacation. Toni leaves tomorrow. We leave on Wednesday, and Sean is coming to Ohio on Friday for a weekend visit. So, please pray that Fay stays AWAY! She could just dissipate and I would be happy!

Anyway, we made it to Epcot by the afternoon. Here William is ready to pitch the Epcot ball!

We rode Soarin. It's a really great ride that you are in a hand glider as a surrounding screen takes you over trees, mountains, ocean, etc. It even has the wind going through your hair!

One of our favorite spots in Epcot is the Cool Club, sponsored by Coke, where you can drink soda from around the world. Some are good...some not so good! (even YUCKY!)

We finished the day by coming home and making pizzas with Larosa's sauce! Just like home! Watched a movie and headed for bed. Another full and fun day here!

Mickey said to say HI to you all!

Type to you later!

Friday in Orlando!

2008-08-16T10:15:00.004-04:00

We started the day off right with William cooking pancakes for us all. They were yummy!

Then...I drove the Hummer! I don't have a picture yet, but I will get one before we leave. It is a great drive and ride! I love it! Too bad it costs more than my house, and it drinks gas faster than you can put it in. The kids were quite impressed that I could drive the beast. The brakes are a bit touchy and I would park away from all other cars since I'm not too keen on parallel parking, but all in all, I think I did ok!

We headed to Orange Lake Resort to swim for the day. William and Toni swam the lazy river, and played volleyball. Here's Toni waiting for the ball and looking beautiful. Then a picture of William sending the ball back over the net. They have a game room also that the kids wanted to go to, but I told them they had to wait until it started to rain. It was 70% chance...but we didn't get any the whole time we were there. It was GREAT! I let them play for an hour, then off to Publix to pick up a couple of things.

Back at Sean's we cleaned up, I cooked (yea...really!), we waited for Sean to get home from work, ate, then played the card game Golf. Sean kicked our butts, and he just learned how to play! Then it was off to bed and another great night of sleeping.

Saturday...today...is Epcot! Sean works till 8pm, so we will be going to Magic Kingdom first then on to Epcot. Bill, Angi, Tony, Grandma...we are having a GREAT time! Love to you all!

Type to you later!

Thursday in Orlando!

2008-08-15T09:16:00.004-04:00

Thursday morning. Sean drops us off at Magic Kingdom. We ride some rides, and then it's off to

Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM). We had a great time, even though it rained a bit. There are many 3D rides here and we love them all. Except the kids nixed my idea of seeing the Muppet one, can you believe it?

Yes, I did cook supper too! Roast, potatoes, carrots...yum yum!

If you watch the slide show here on the right, you will see the alligator that we saw in the town of Celebration. (where Sean lives) Last year I took a picture of the sign, which I thought was funny. Now...not so funny! He looks like the ones from Louisianna...I've seen too many latley!

Vacation Time!

2008-08-14T23:11:00.006-04:00

I sooooo love vacation time! Especially when I get to come to Florida and spend the week with Sean! William and I planned to come and decided to ask Toni if she would like to come with us. We called her the day before we were to leave. I'm so very glad we did! We are having a great time!

Grams drove us to the airport (thank you Granny!!)and I took lots of pictures of the sunrise. It was beautiful! We stopped at Cinnabon, which is a tradition, then had our 2 hour flight to sunny Florida! We collected our luggage and Sean picked us up in Tommy's Hummer. The gas guzzler is a great ride...Sean is expecting me to drive it this week...we shall see! We headed to Sean's, unloaded, took a (very) short nap (Toni & I) went to lunch then took Tommy to the airport in Tampa. He is going to Key West with his family. Since we took him to the airport I need to pick him up on Tuesday. This was so we would have a car to drive. Sean has a new car. A Mini Cooper. Talk about David and Goliath! It should be an interesting week of driving for me! Please pray!

We headed down the road and found a beautiful beach, with white sand on the gulf coast. It was quite windy, but beautiful and there were tons of shells. We stayed there and played for awhile. You can see all these pictures in the slide show I added on the right side of this blog. We finished out the evening with showers, grocery shopping and video games.

The joke of the week (William always laughs tons) is that I am cooking!I used to love to cook, but now, never have much time to do so. But...you will see! I am taking the time to cook for the kids...plus it is lots less expensive!

ok...this is long enough!

Type to you later!

Swamp Thang!

2008-08-01T02:07:00.008-04:00

Here is a few pictures from our swamp tour tonight (40 of us went-we took 2 boats, here is ours)...we got to see some gators...and not ones that are driven in the lake at camp either!

Check out the blog pictures for many more pictures and more information from everyone!

This is our last day, tomorrow begins our "hopefully" 13 hour trip and not any longer coming home. I think we all have mixed emotions of wanting to get home, but also wanting to still be able to help more...thanks for all your prayers!

Here's some pix...check out lovedtolove.org for more!

2008-07-29T22:38:00.006-04:00

Today's rain.

Our first work day!

Computer Time!

Kevin

Still raining...

I'm In Louisiana & Mississippi

2008-07-27T21:53:00.005-04:00

Yep, that's right, both!We are staying in Louisiana & working in Mississippi! I am now on the mission's trip helping to build houses. William and I left with a group of 42 from our church, a church from Brazil, and a couple others yesterday. We begin work tomorrow.

You can see all about our trip and read stories from all of us by going to our church's website and clicking on blog. There's suppose to be pictures there too! Our fearless leader, Brian is keeping up with the pictures. Here is the link...www.lovedtolove.org

I do want to add...please pray for Skip Hardwick's family...He passed away yesterday and he will be missed by many...I know I will miss his great smile and his BEAUTIFUL blue eyes! I am sending LOTS OF LOVE to Jill & Pam and their families! Love you lots!

Type to you later!

It's all GOOD!

2008-07-20T20:48:00.002-04:00

Here's a slimy pix for ya! We had a GREAT time!!!

Alas...

2008-07-19T18:24:00.002-04:00

VBS has come and gone...the great week flew by and slime time is over. I have soooo much to tell you about, but hopefully you actually got to experience the week, or at least a part of it yourself. It was WONDERFUL! All the people were great and now the Worship Center looks quite bare. There are so many people to thank for all they did before, during and after, that I will be saying thank you for a long time! LCC PEEPS-YOU ROCK!!!

Now, last night I decided to skip small group...sorry guys! But it was my sister, Angi's birthday so we went to see Momma Mia!!! IT IS FANTASTIC!!! A relaxing night with so much laughter that my stomach hurt and I had tears in my eyes!!! I had seen the play a couple years ago, and loved it...this movie...I want to see it again!!! If anyone out there wants to go and has no one to go with, give me a call!!!

We then went out to dinner and then home to lay around till I went off to bed! What a novelty!! Bill is off to Pennsylvania for another fishing trip, so I even had "the power" over the remote! I woke up at 3am, watched some more TV, then went back to sleep!! YEA! My mom called at 9am...we went out for breakfast (Mom, Toni, Wm & I)then hung out at Walmart!

William is now the proud owner of "Rock Band" so this afternoon I tried my best to keep up with the thing! I get a bit spastic when the drums have you to push the peddle AND pound on the drums, at the same time...I feel REALLY uncoordinated! The guitar is a bit easier and the microphone...well, if you hum in the right key, it still works! William and Toni are much MUCH better than I am!!! It is quite comical tho.

So... here I am, at home! I even have cleaned up a bit and did some laundry. Tomorrow I will be starting to get all the stuff William and I need for our missions trip! We will be leaving on Saturday morning with a group from church to Louisiana to help build houses! I think playing the drums will get us ready for hammering there! Or...I hope so! Oh yea...we will be journalling (sp?)while we are there. I will let you know where to find us!

Tomorrow, I will hopefully get some pix up from VBS...as usual, I can't do it from my home computer! OK...gotta go, William is waiting for me to try, try again!

Hope to see you tomorrow! Type to you later!

Wish I could...

2008-07-16T22:31:00.002-04:00

find the time to write ALL ABOUT OUR VBS this week, but time is going much toooo fast! It's 10:30pm the last night, I'm trying to clean up some stuff & answer some emails...but really want to let everyone know how GREAT everyone & everything has been! THANK YOU...THANK YOU...THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GOD HAS BEEN WITH US ALL WEEK & I'm ready for one more BIG MIRACLE tomorrow night!!! Will you pray with me????

For lots of pictures, check out the www.lovedtolove.org and click on the picture at the bottom...Thanks Brian for keeping up with the pixs!!!

I will type more later! (after VBS!)

UNBELIEVABLELY FANTASTIC!

2008-07-13T22:48:00.002-04:00

Tonight...the first night of VBS...the children, the fun, the stories, the singing, the smiles, the laughter, the games, the high screeching screams?!!! The crafts, the snacks, the great leaders...so many wonderful people there tonight that made it such a great night! I am TRULY blessed with a fantastic church family and they all came together tonight for our kick off of "The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything"!

There were over 150 kids!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't even remember the total, but I know there was over 200 tonight counting all our adult and teen helpers! We were actually all on time for the first 40 minutes...and then...yep, running late as usual.

Everyone did a wonderful job...Did I already say how blessed we are???? Thank you ALL - SOOOOO VERY MUCH for a great first night!

If you didn't make it tonight...there's always tomorrow!!! SEE YOU THEN!!

Type to ya later!

So busy...and So Blessed!

2008-07-04T00:35:00.001-04:00

Within all the hubub of 4th of July parade & VBS preparations, Williams baseball games, practices and now tourneys, and of course regular work at the church and the city, housework, laundry, bills,comes the North American Christian Conference! I was trying to figure out just why I had said I would help in the Welcome Center at the conference, with all the extra stuff already on my to do list, and thinking I really wouldn't be to very excited about the whole thing...and then...

I attended on Tuesday evening...The Weber family was gracious enough to let me tag along and spend the evening with them. We dropped off an extra table for the "Beading to Beat Autism" booth for Brian, Jen & Lisa. Then off to take the kids to the children's section.

Who is in there???? My favorites (besides Dellmo & Jimbo that is) was Johnny Rogers and Kai! They are from KIDMO!!! Anyone that helps in NP-3 will know these guys and we got to see them in action-LIVE!!! I wanted to stay with the kids SO BADLY! But, since I had to go to the "Big Church" part of the conference Austin & Meredith had to fill me in on all the great things that happened. And then I was really sad I wasn't there! "Kids Blitz" was there also! I had been trying to get William's schedule so that I could help with the children's section, but never had anything set yet, so I was really even more bummed when I saw who was there. :(

But...God did bless me! Jared, the guy who I had been emailing about the kids was the one helping us sign the kids in and I asked if they would be needing any help on Thursday. I had a shift at the Welcome Center but could help in the evening if he needed me...anyway...today I looked him up and YEA!! I GOT TO HELP!!! IT WAS WONDERFUL!!!

There was probably around 150 kids, a few adults and teens in their "Home Depot" aprons and the GUYS!!! We had a blast and I am sooooo very thankful that I could share this experience with the Webers! We got pictures with them and Kai gave us the newest KIDMO called "DEEP"!!! And, we all got T-shirts!!!

So, not only was I blessed with a great week of craziness with busyness, I have been blessed by the craziness of fantasticly crazy people that love Our Lord and love to share it with our children! And...Saving money on new curriculum! BLESSED!!!

I also got to spend some time with some really great people, like the Pachta family! Thanks for giving me a ride tonight, and Patty, thanks for the workshop selection, and not dropping ALL the pills on the floor, and for being a GREAT MOM and always putting your children first! (no, really, you do ROCK!) I got to work with Lisa, Michala Riggle's aunt, and hang out with Brian & Jen for lunch OR dinner (I'm not sure which it was). Thanks for letting me crash your meal!

For the evening, I got to forget all the stuff that still needs to be done, and just worship God and be thankful for all the blessings God has given me with church family and wonderful teachers! I have just a few pics to share. I am at home, so I sure hope these work! Looks like I will have to load them later...night!

Please pray for the KIDMO team, especially Johnny & Kia...thanks!

Type to you later! See you all at the parade!!!

Only have a Moment...

2008-07-02T22:28:00.003-04:00

Here are a couple of camp photos...

The Whole Crew!!!

The Deans!!!

All the next ones are the "Adults" in charge???

Congratulations to Vicki!!!

It was a WONDERFUL WEEK!!! Remember, these are just a few! Check out our church web site and click on the photo link to see MANY more!!!

IT'S AMAZING!!!

2008-06-30T04:21:00.002-04:00

Yes, it's amazing to me, when there is so many wonderful things happening, that there is just not enough time to share it all on here! There are so many GREAT stories and pictures and lessons from camp to share, but just not enough time or space to get it all in! So, you can go to our church web site to see pictures of all the kids and leaders having a great time! Or even on Brian's blog! See them sliding down HUGE inflatable slides, doing archery, the climbing wall, playing in SNOW, reading from their BIBLES, doing silly challenges, EATING, smiling, swimming, canoeing, playing on a HUGE INFLATABLE TEETER-TATER, laughing, singing, and BEING BAPTIZED into Christ! And, that's just what you can see! To feel the excitement, joy and love of the week is just indescribable!!!! You have to come and experience it and be a part of this great week to really understand. It's a fantastically exhausting but such a rewarding week, and it's the GREATEST! It's hard to believe that it's over...

But now...it's on to VBS! I had a really great friend ask me yesterday if they had done something wrong since I had not talked or seen them in awhile...for sure...NOT THE CASE!!! It is MOST ASSUREDLY not the case! I for one, if I have a problem, will come directly to that person, so...do not fret! So, what is going on???

VBS and the 4th of July parade (which we enter with a VBS float) and the festival, which is H20 give-away, face painting & this year, children's crafts! VBS is taking just about every waking moment...which, right now it is 3:30am and I have been trying to figure out some stuff and can't sleep!!! Getting leaders in place, their assignments for the week, paperwork, decorations,and all that goes with it. Along with these HUGE things, William is now in tournaments with baseball (his regular team) and...

HE MADE THE ALL STAR TEAM! AND...BILL IS COACHING IT TOO! This is the first year of "Little League" in Loveland, and if you heard about the team from Hamilton last year, they could be playing for the whole summer if they keep winning! This team will be playing in Warren County this weekend and next week will be in Oxford! I am thankful right now that I will be able to go to these...and try to prepare for VBS. I don't know when their next games will be, but do know that they could go to West Virgina, Michigan and then to Pennsylvania for the Little League World Series. So, I pray they have some great games and enjoy the tourney and that I get to share in as much as possible with my family!

Oh, and I forgot to say, the NACC is here this weekend and what was I thinking... volunteering there...I really could use some extra time...BUT...yep, the holy but...I have found some extra time! If you don't sleep, there is plenty of more usable hours in the day!

PRAYER TIME! Please pray for our outreaches...4th of July & VBS. Pray for those children and families we will reach and all our helpers. Pray for good weather and that we will be able to show Jesus' love to all we meet. Please pray for all at the NACC this week. Pray for our church and leaders to always keep God first and represent Him through our thoughts, actions and words.

Hey...thanks for "listening"!!! It's time for some coffee! Type to you later!

Hello out there!

2008-06-18T15:48:00.003-04:00

We are all at Woodland Lakes having a GREAT time! The weather has been great and the kids are too! We have been eating, swimming, walking, eating, praying, eating, singing, eating, dancing, eating, playing water kickball, archery, eating, doing the climbing wall, laughing, eating, learning lots about Jesus, and did I say eating???

The kids are learning Bible verses and new songs everyday, along with watching their leaders do goofy challanges. Dellmo & Jimbo are keeping us going with stories, visitors from far away, and letting us know lots about why they have joined the mission field! We had a visitor last night that carves the most amazing walking sticks!!! WOW! I'm sure you will hear all about from your children! (if you ask)

Tonight is the Polar Bear swim!!! It might just be cold enough to actually see a polar bear at the pool!

Hope you are all doing well without your children! We are having a wonderful time with them this week!

Type to you later!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!!

2008-06-13T18:41:00.004-04:00

Wishing my mommy a wonderfully blessed birthday!!!
Love you! Here is Mom, Angi & me!!!

Hope everyone is READY! Tomorrow we all meet for our day before camp starts meeting and decorating frenzie! What a great week we all have in store for us...so sorry for those of you that won't be able to make it to camp with us this year!

Maybe next year??????

Type to you later!

Last Weekend...

2008-06-12T13:52:00.010-04:00

There was MORE BASEBALL, between the raindrops & lightning on Saturday,

Setting up for our new NP-3 "SOAR"

and going to Mason's Relay for Life to see my sister, Angi get her hair cut to donate it.

And...of course...more cicadas! Now all over my tree in the front yard of our house. They love to attack you if you walk down the sidewalk...GREAT!

Sunday was our Graduation Sunday. Here is a couple of pictures of our graduates.

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU ALL!!!

Now...this week is full of stuff for camp week! WOODLAND LAKES, HERE WE COME!!!

Type to you later!

PARENTING TIP...WE CAN ALL USE!

2008-06-06T10:18:00.009-04:00

A Work in Progress

How you view your children and what you think about discipline can help you stay calm and use healthy routines when things get tough. Imagine a car dealership where a man named Martin works in the showroom. Martin sells cars to prospective customers. If he sees a car without a door, he’s surprised and upset. He doesn’t expect to see defects. Cars in the showroom are supposed to be finished.

Bill, on the other hand, works in the factory and inspects cars for flaws and missing parts. It’s his job to find problems and fix them. In fact, Bill is prepared with a number of routines depending on the nature of the problem. If a door is missing, Bill doesn’t get upset; he just goes through his routine of obtaining a door and putting it on.

Bill knows that when a car is on the production line it requires continual work. Doors are added, pieces are put together, and workers are continually looking for ways to improve the product.

Viewing your children as works in progress instead of as finished products can help you respond to them without harshness or frustration. Like Bill, you can view problems as opportunities. Misbehavior and relational struggles are indicators of where your child needs help to grow and mature.

Parents are often frustrated by the continual need for correction and the endless number of mistakes that children make. If you can remember that your children are on the production line instead of in the showroom, your expectations will lead you to solutions instead of to anger.

Paul knew that his readers were a work in progress when he said in Philippians 1:6 "he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." God is also at work in your children and sometimes it takes time to see progress.

This tip comes from the book, "Good and Angry, Exchanging Frustration for Character in You and Your Kids,” by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller.

GRACE LOVES CICADAS!

2008-06-01T19:25:00.004-04:00

Hey everyone...

I added pitures tonight on our click here www.LCCKIDS.BLOGSPOT.COM to see Grace and all her friends!

I have a few more pix to share but will wait till you all catch up with all my blogging lately.

We had a winner in NP-3! More info and pix to come tomorrow...and a recap of all that happened today! It was a GREAT DAY AT LCC!! If you weren't here, I'm so sorry you missed everything! But next week!! Oh my, next week is gonna even be better!
Stay tuned for all the BIG NEWS coming up!!!

Check out the kids korner!
Type to ya later!

Saturday is the day

2008-05-31T17:52:00.002-04:00

before Sunday! Wow, am I smart, or what??? The weather is go great today. William had a game earlier and it was great being out in the warm sun instead of the liquid sunshine we have had. My cold seems a little better. At least I'm not having keeping a cough drop in my mouth to keep from coughing up what lung I do have! When I woke up it was horrid...I think all your prayers are working! THANKS SOOO MUCH!

Last night at small group (yea..I know, D Group) LJ, Tawnya and the kids came. It was great to have them as part of our group and to have LJ talk to us about being and Elder and ask us our views on what an elder does, should do, or what we have seen in the past. It was very interesting, but we all decided that those things, or most of them should be done by us all. And, we could help him out. Everyone can do these things...YEP, YOU TOO! B A Disciple!

Anyway...we had a great time together, and the kids must have had a great time too, they were laughing a lot and loving the birthday cookie and ice cream Lisa brought for Dylan's birthday. Lisa's birthday is the same as his, which is Monday. Angi, Toni & William came with me this week, so it was really nice to have some family with me! Toni's birthday was Thursday...so HAPPY BIRTHDAY TONI, LISA & DYLAN!

We haven't started painting yet...gotta get to it! Have a great weekend!

Type to you later!

Another week goes by...

2008-05-30T10:43:00.007-04:00

Really, where does the time go? This weekend is our grand finale of 7 Ways to Praise in NP-3! All of our leaders will try and give a quick review of the last 6 ways and Angi and Heidi will celebrate with them all at the 11:15 worship service.

Our word for this week is Tehillah, the combination of them all! Worship with singing, shouting, dancing and more...It's wild and it's fun so everyone can rejoice before the Lord! NP-3 WILL BE ROCKING THIS SUNDAY!!!

We will also be drawing for the MP-3 player this week...so don't miss it! I can't wait!!!

This past week has been full, as always. Even tho the holiday was in there I seem to not be able to remember it was just a three day weekend.

Here's pictures from Toni's concert. There is a family resemblance...

Bill, and I, with William and his friend Garrett went to see Pete Peel at Kidd Coffee. Many of my D Group was there along with many other of our LCC family.

AND...CICADAS ARE HERE! Well, from what I hear not everyone has the influx of MANY of these wonderful friends. Our tree that evening after these pictures looked like a living/moving tree. We could see all of them coming out of the ground around and then on our feet and up the tree. It was very interesting. Our dog, Mattie LOVES THEM and has been dining on them. You can click on these pictures to see them even better.

There were meetings happening. Our camp week is called "Whatever!" with all the middler kids in June. We met with all the counsellors and Brian, Tony & I, along with Rhonda's help made our CD for all the campers. I just mailed them out today...cept for LCC kids, you will get them on Sunday!

Of course there was work, and work and baseball! William is a great pitcher...it's so much fun to watch him and his team play!

And...here is my rose bushes and flowers. I worked hard on weeding, and planting over the weekend. Oh, and I think we are finished painting our living room. I think our entry way and up the stairs are next. I think...

Well, I gotta get going...can you help me out a little? I have developed a "cold" or sinus infection which is not making me feel very well. Next week I have my checkup x-ray and then meet again with my lung specialist before I go to camp for a week. Anyway, I would love your prayers...there's too much to do and get done to feel so yucky.

Thanks to you all and type to you later!

Hey...Guess what??

2008-05-23T14:54:00.004-04:00

I am at work and can load a couple of pictures...what to put on here????

Here are a couple of pictures of Tyler & Chrissy Avery's wedding...it was beautiful!
And...check out her BEAUTIFUL DRESS!!

It's so quiet here at the church. Preschool is now out and the singing in the hallways are gone. It's really hard to believe there is only a couple of more weeks of school in Loveland. I know many schools get out even earlier!

Summer is here, even tho the weather seems so cool. William finally got in a baseball game last night after 5 rainouts! They won 23 to 3 then it was back to the church for our Middler Camp meeting. It's always exciting to see everyone and get ready for our week at Woodland Lakes Chrisitan Camp! Earlier in the week Brian, Tony and I tried to get our info cd done. Rhonda "DOTSON!" Adamson came to help tape it, but low and behold...no sound! If you get the chance, pray we get this thing done right and sent out for all our campers!

Tonight we are heading to Kidd Coffee to here Pete Peel play! It's gonna be great, so if you have no other plans, or even if you do, come on out between 7-9 and see Pete and have a cup of "Joe!"

Well, gotta get to work! Type to you later!

Summer is ALMOST HERE!

2008-05-21T00:55:00.002-04:00

I know it's hard to believe since we are still having "April Showers" in May, but school will be out within the next 2 weeks! Can you believe it?

I know that summer is upon us because I and my friend Geneva have been working on VBS and our 4th of July outreach, Brian has been getting camp stuff ready, Lynn has been working on Relay for Life, and to go along with those, there is also the Gulf Coast Relief Mission Trip and NACC in Cincinnati! And those are all in June and July!

Does that sound like alot??? I think so! Summer is always my favorite because you can see so many people serving in so many ways. It is a great time to reach our community and have so much fun sharing time with our church family while doing it!

We all have some really great stories to tell from these events in the past and I am sure if you take part in any...or all of our summer events, you too will have wonderful memories to share!

Let's share Jesus' love with everyone...come join us!

p.s. Please pray today for a few of my friends and other things too...Sandy Gentry/a painless day full of love...Alicia Weber/swift healing...Seth Irwin/no more strep...Barb Walchle/peace & love...Groves & Sinclair/peace & comfort...our church, staff, leadership, children's ministry & Summer events. Thanks & type to you later!

Some Women of Faith Pics

2008-05-15T15:43:00.003-04:00

Natalie Grant sang and spoke! WOWSERS!!!

Nicole C. Mullen...sang and danced and spoke! It was GREAT!!! She has some really muscular arms!

Where is the time going?

2008-05-14T10:50:00.002-04:00

My days seem to run together lately...and it seems like I'm not getting anywhere. I always WANT to write here, but seem to never find the time to. I count this as a "reward" when I finish stuff. So, today, before I head off to my other job, I decided to write a little. I have done laundry, moved furniture, swept, filled the dishwasher, worked on my Bible Study, (YEA!)and now I deserve a break!

We are now painting our house. (inside) Bill & I went shopping this last weekend for my Mother's day present and this is what I wanted. I always seem to pick out stuff for the house now...boy, I must be old...what happened to the DIAMONDS??? William had his dad take him to the store on the way to church Sunday to buy me a card! With his own money too!!! What a GREAT & THOUGHTFUL SON! Love you Lots, William!!!

Anyway, last night when I got home from "The City" Bill had started painting our living room. So far, so good. This morning we were moving furniture and rearranging. Tonight is another coat and more moving. Can you believe how much dust gets on the back of your TV...wow! I thought there was something living in there (and I guess there could have been!) My "temporary" phone wire is now gone, thanks to Cincy Bell! What a GREAT GUY and so very helpful! I scheduled it all online~it was great, no animated voices on the phone for 20 minutes or longer till you finally push or say the right number!

And...last Friday I got to see Meredith's ballet recital. How wonderful she and all the girls (and 1 boy) did! And she looked BEAUTIFUL...just like a princess! Thank you for inviting me! I LOVED IT!

I'm hoping to put some pictures in here soon. But, since I'm at home, and I still have dial up...pictures don't work very well. Someday soon I will find some time while at the church to send some up here!

Well, there's lots more going on, but I HAVE TO get to work. Thanks for checking in with me, and I hope to type to you again REALLY SOON!

Words of Wisdom from my friend Sandy!

2008-05-10T11:53:00.002-04:00

My prayers go out to Sandy and her family today and forever! Love you Girl!

Keep Walking Through and Keep Praising

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me…” (Psalm 23:4)

Today is May 9th less then 10 hours 18 years ago my first granddaughter will make her entrance into the world. She will be named Kaitlyn Danielle Gentry. It is a blessing to know God knew her before she was in her mamas womb and in our arms. It is and even bigger blessing that His knew she was to be in our life, my life for 17 years 5 months and 3 days.

It’s evening I’ve learned that evenings and anniversary's are especially difficult. And tomorrow we would have celebrated her 18th birthday.
I am so thankful that Rex is retired and home every night during the week. It is just comforting having each other to lean into. At first I seemed to pass through a cycle of tears each evening as the reality caught me off-guard through conversations and memories that are triggered by pictures and other things, but as you all know, tears can be healing. So I let the tears fall and hope they will provide the balm I need so badly as I trudge through this valley.

I understand these are normal feelings (if “normal” is even the appropriate word for grieving parents, grandparents, brother and sisters cousins aunts and uncles of such a precious life that was taken in her youth), and so we are trusting God as he provides your words of encouragement and the prayers we know you are uttering to see us into each “tomorrow”.

So thank you for continuing to lift us up to our Heavenly Father. I know “God is enough” so I'm trusting He will be enough each and every day as I have a day like today. Your words of encouragement are constant reminders that He is holding me tightly until He brings me home and I'm reunited with our precious Kaitlyn....a wise king said "can I bring the child back"???" NO" but I can go to the child.

Everyone faces challenges and difficulties in life. If you are going through a valley today, know that you are not alone. God is with you! He is working behind the scenes on your behalf, and He will carry you through. Remember, your challenges didn’t come to stay, they came to pass. Don’t get stuck in the valley by allowing your setbacks to become the focus of your life. Jesus endured the pain of the cross for the joy that was set before Him, and when you focus on your victory, you will be able to keep walking through that valley! Shake off bitterness and self-pity and be determined to press forward. With God on your side, no weapon formed against you shall prosper. As you keep an attitude of faith and expectancy, your challenges will become easier, and you will move forward and live the life of blessings the Lord has in store for you.

Father in heaven, thank You for Your faithfulness to me. Thank You for giving me strength during the difficult times. I trust that You are with me today, tomorrow and everyday and I choose to focus on what You have in store for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Another week goes by...

2008-05-03T22:26:00.002-04:00

This week was no slower than any of the previous ones...Between work, work, family, friends, more work, more family and more friends, it goes pretty fast!

This week had baseball games, orthodontist visits, VBS preparation, and a staff lunch which was WONDERFUL!!! (Lynn made a fantastic lunch!) There was work at the church and the city. Shopping,(Penny's actually had really great stuff for $1.97) lunching with friends, going to the library to help William research for a project, I actually cooked this week (shocker!!), reading a book, and another too (Bible), meeting with my small group (YEA! It was great to be back with them all again!), praying with and for friends, calling those that are having difficulties with surgeries, illness or just problems. Spending time with my family...just sitting on our porch and enjoying the weather. Having pizza with William's team after a winning game...William was the pitcher with the save! Bases were loaded, only one out. William struck out the last two batters! GO WILLIAM...YOU ROCK!

Rain cancelled most games for today. But, the sun came out to shine on Tyler & Chrissy tonight. What a BEAUTIFUL wedding. What a BEAUTIFUL bride! It is so fantastic to see Tyler so very happy! Congratulations to you both & Love you lots!

Now, after watching Narnia with William, it's getting late and I need to sleep...tomorrow starts another week full of things. I am hoping to add some pictures to share with you all.

I did want to say, it was sure great to see some friends that I have truly missed seeing for so long. Scott and Terri....wow....it was really wonderful to get those hugs and get to talk with you! Praying I see you again soon!

Well, lets see what tomorrow brings! I know we have a special group here from Brazil that will be performing tomorrow night, and we have pizza with the preachers after church. Sounds like another busy week starting right away. So, enough for tonight so that I can try to get some rest!

Type to you later!

THIS WEEK HAS FLOWN!!

2008-04-25T10:35:00.005-04:00

Sorry to all you Blog Readers out there!! This week has gone by so fast and there is still just not enough time in the day! I have tried to slow down a bit, (not b/c I want to...but have to). So...if you are a NP-3 parent looking for "The Big Question", please see the next entry.

Here are "some" of the activities from the past weekend...The Mother/Son Bash Friday, baseball practice, games, canoeing, beading & all the regular stuff.

Then taking pictures of some things I haven't seen or done in awhile. Rolke Bros store is closing...it's been there for many years. It's sad to see them go. And, my mom and I went to "The Rootbeer Stand"! I haven't been there in years!! It was WONDERFUL! I actually washed my car this week! See, I'm slowing down!!!

Really, I am just trying to do other things than just "work"...like spending more time with family and friends! I love my jobs tho...it's easy to get into them all and get lost for hours on end.

So, gotta go! Geneva and I have some shopping to do and then its off to Women of Faith!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WOOO HOOOO!!!

Have a GREAT WEEKEND!!! I will type to you later!

2 Kids

2008-04-20T14:09:00.004-04:00

Congratuations to Austin W and Jacob P for picking up even more points to get even closer to that MP-3 player!!!

Here are some answers we got back from our question: "What is Worship?" praising God, prayer, singing , doing nice things, reading the Bible, saying nice things to the Lord, following the 10 Commandments.

If you made it to "Big Church" this week, Brian even talked about what Worship is. I jotted down one biggie.... EVERYTHING WE DO! Giving all we have and are for His Glory. Yes, it is our singing time, prayer time, and communion time, but it is and should be all that we do is for HIS Glory.

What are we teaching our children? What is the most important thing in your family's life? Are you doing what you are saying? Here you go parents...

I have started a new blog for our kids here at LCC...you can visit it now and do the next lesson "Family Huddle" for next Sunday. Are you ready? WWW.LCCKIDS.BLOGSPOT.COM will tell you more about what we are learning and how you can help your child know more about Worship. There you will find "THE BIG QUESTION!"

Type to you later!

Our SuperStart Pictures!

2008-04-15T10:37:00.002-04:00

SuperStart Weekend!

2008-04-15T10:30:00.000-04:00

Thanks again...SO MUCH!

2008-04-15T05:25:00.002-04:00

I have lots to talk about from the weekend, which I will surely do. But...I just wanted to take this time to say THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH! Thank you for your prayers! My doc today said I am getting better...my lungs sounded really good-better than he expected.(he seemed to be surprised...not me...got the most awesome prayer warriors out there!) I am now allowed "officially" to return to work! He said to take it easy and not overdo! He wants me to rest enough to get my strength back, but said my job isn't all that strenuous??? So do the best I can without wearing myself out. Also, I have to try and not get sick...cuz backward I will go. (Coughing really hurts!) I am still not allowed to lift anything over 5 pounds for another 3 to 4 weeks, and I go back to see him in 8 weeks with a new x-ray at 7 weeks.

If you figure out the weeks, I should hopefully be back to normal (is that possible?) by camp week! RA! RA! RE!!! And even better by VBS! WOOOO HOOOO! Yes Brian...God's timing is definitely the best~especially when it works in to my planned schedule!

It's great to be back to seeing everyone at church! It seemed like FOREVER! I got to meet some of our newest attenders, actually 6 and I still didn't get to meet many more...it's a passion of mine-to meet every person that comes to LCC. So, if you are reading this and I have not met you yet...look me up this week! It was great to get the hugs and talk to all the LCC regulars and see what wonderful people we have that helped out while I was gone.

Thanks to all who have stepped up to help out! You all have done such a wonderful job and it is greatly appreciated by many...not just me. Our church is blessed with many wonderful people and I am so very thankful that God put us all there together as a family.

Thanks so much to all who sent cards, called, made food, SENT CHOCOLATE, visited, brought gifts, made food, SENT CHOCOLATE, prayed, took me out of the house, taught children on Sunday, did attendance, took care of the bulletins, made food, sent chocolate, answered phones, helped in the office, worked on NP-3 kickoff, learned to use the folding machine?, and prayed...these people are the bestest around! Hope to see you all again this week!

THANKS SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH!~ holly

Yes...I did!

2008-04-10T13:29:00.002-04:00

Yes, I have ventured out! Bill dropped me off at the church yesterday for a 2 hour session to try and get some stuff ready for this weekend. This Sunday is our 1st week of our newest and bestest NP-3 that is entitled "7 Ways 2 Praise!" It's gonna be great with Kurt & Alicia kicking us off with our 1st week! And...the new stage is just about set...thanks soooooooooooo much for all that helped take down the old and all the hard workers who put up the new! Geneva Myers is my HERO!!! Thanks to all who have helped her...I have to have the bestest peeps around!YOU ALL ROCK!!!

Alicia and I were there this morning putting some finishing touches for her lesson this Sunday...You won't want to miss it!

And...This is SUPERSTART weekend too...our 4th & 5th graders are headed there for a great weekend and we will be joined by a group from Michigan too! Please pray for them and us to have safe travel this weekend and that God helps us all to hear what He wants us to hear.

Tonight and the next 2 evenings I'm sending lots of prayers up for Toni Marie too! William & I, Heidi & Mike will be going to see her play MASH tonight! BREAK A LEG TONI! WE LOVE YOU!!!!

Yes, I am resting in between...God always gives us what we need to make it though. Some things just have to be done...and you, yes you wonderful peeps have made it happen! I am very, very blessed! Thank you God!

Getting there...slowly!

2008-04-08T10:27:00.008-04:00

I got this card today and wanted to share. It says inside: I picked the healthiest card I could find ~ Hope it works!
It's been quite awhile, and now there's tons to type about...where to begin???

Surgery day (way back when) Bill and I got there early...Brian stopped by the house to pray before we left. Brad, who has shown up many times in my many trips to the hospital for tests shows up...sits with me for awhile till he heads off to push someone else around! Bob & Jean Wille are there just a few minutes, when off I go to start getting ready. I have always wanted to get that makeover...have you ever seen "How Do I Look?" I know it's gotta really be embarrassing when they first start out, but then, they do miracles! Well, I got a make over at the hospital. New dress and socks! So stylish!! It was such a popular outfit there were tons of people there with the same great style!

Just before I'm scheduled to get into surgery they let your family in to see you. I had Bill, Bob & Jean & Patty Pachta! Bob said a great prayer...thanks tons Bob! Then my Mom showed up to see me off to surgery. William was with Angi and they were going to come up later with Toni too.

I know there were many people who called and came by the hospital while I was in surgery, and I definitely want to thank you all for all your prayers and support for me, Bill and William throughout the day! I am very blessed to have such HUGE & WONDERFUL family! There were some crazy problems to make surgery last much longer than expected, but when I finally came to and was moved back to my room~there was a PAR-TAY goin on!!! Wooo Hoo!! It was FANTASTIC to see everyone...I'm not sure how crazy I might have been, since I was kinda drugged up...maybe a little wacky? (Probably not any more than usual!)With Heidi around who could be wackier???? (Love ya girl!!)

That was the beginning...I have had tooooooo slow of a recoop...it's driving me crazy! I have been back to the "baby stage" eating and sleeping but I am getting better. But I do notice that when I try to do too much I am back on the pain pills and sitting in my chair! I have weened myself off the stronger stuff except sleeping after a full day, then I must regress to those again to get some rest. It feels really weird inside...kind of like someone is putting pressure on my chest and when I move they tighten their hold. Pulling and pushing is difficult, which means no laundry (darn!) and still no sleeping in the bed yet. I have a wonderful chair that my friend Sharon gave me. Bill and William can't wait till I am out of it so they can lounge there!

I did have a reaction to the tape they had on my back...it looks like I had a bike accident and skidded along the road on my back. It is healing slowly and feeling better each day!

Surgery found a 2.5 cm (2 inch)square...my doctor said like a big ravioli (Bill thought the canned size, but found out it was much bigger!)It was a fungus (yuck!) that is called Histioplasmosis. Apparently it is a spore very prevelent here in the Ohio Valley and we all have probably breathed it in at some point & time in our lives here in Loveland. Your immune system will fight it off if it decides to stay in you, unless your immune system is low, which I have been told, mine was. So, this thing imbedded into my right lung and began to grow. When I first heard the size back last December it was 1.4 cm and I'm not sure what it was in October, so it was growing pretty quickly. How did we find it? God! I went to the emergency room back in October with shortness of breath and chest pains...they couldn't find anything...but after xrays and a cat scan (because they thought I had a blood clot in my lung) the dr in the emergency room said I "might want to get the nodule they found in my lung checked out" He didn't say it like it was any big deal...so really December was when we started many more tests, and they gave the nodule the new name of "mass". Each new test and biopsy came out inconclusive so the only thing to do was surgery. What a crazy ride it has been!

During the testing time I really didn't tell anyone...Bill & Brian (since I had to rearrange some work time) I kept thinking that I would get a result and let people know what was happening and to join me in prayer. With every test it came apparent that I needed to let more people know to start praying with me! What a great group of prayer warriors we have...I couldn't have made it without all the prayers and support from everyone. As each test was inconclusive more and more people were told...so...if you had not heard till later, don't feel bad at all. I just really didn't have anything conclusive to tell and didn't want lots of people worrying.

So, here it is...tooooo much type! Thanks for checking in with me. Thanks to everyone for all the cards, phone calls, gifts, candy, visits and FOOD! Thank you to Darren & Geneva for arranging the food deliveries...they have been a godsend for our whole family! My small group and all the others that have made some really delicious meals have helped us tremendously~we have some really fantastic cooks! It's always great to see or hear from you all! I surely do miss everyone and can't wait to get back to church!

Love and miss you! Type to you again SOON!

Today's the day!

2008-03-21T10:06:00.001-04:00

It's surgery day! Keep on praying & I will hopefully blog again really soon!

Love you all LOTS!

From Snow to Flood...to Snow???

2008-03-19T20:32:00.004-04:00

If you live here in the Cincinnati area, you know that you never really know what the weather will be like...even the weather men don't ever know! We have our own weather man here at LCC...MR BRIAN! He loves the snow and sent everyone he knew the weather radar for our last crazy snow storm that dropped over a foot of snow in places around here.
These pictures are of William and Bill sledding on the hill down the road from us. If you notice, sledding too far will put you in the river! Yes, it has always made me VERY NERVOUS and I always make Bill go down to stop him if he starts going too fast. Now he is old enough to roll off...but before...whew!!

Now...look at these pictures. This is the same place that 12 days ago was full of snow! The river is so big and running so very fast! It has flooded many places.It has been raining almost non stop for 2 days!Then, tonight it changed to HUGE snowflakes with a blizzard! Wow! I couldn't get out to take a picture tho.

Well...lets see what the weather brings us tomorrow!

These are the same too!
Type to you later!

Who's on First?

2008-03-17T11:30:00.004-04:00

Do you remember the who's on first saying that used to go on...who's on first, yes, who is on first... here it is...

I kinda feel like this crazy guy with all the hospital visits, for tests, and doctors and test results...who what & where, when, why, I don't know....but...this week it should all be answered...I hope! Was Hope on the team...I don't think so. (No, not him either) Are you confused? Yep, so am I!

But...Here's what I do know....I can find peace and comfort in God's word.

Phillipians 4:5-7 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Matthew 21:21-23 Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done.
If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."

I believe that God is bigger than anything in my lung and that He will use me to touch others in any way that He needs. I remember Howard Wakefield always said...If you pray, don't worry and if you worry, don't pray! So, that's what I am trying to do. Thanks to all of you who have been, are and will be praying with me! I know that He is listening...let's see what He has planned!

I am trying to get everything ready for Friday...getting people scheduled for the office, children's ministry, city stuff set, bills, food, cleaning (yea right!) I just like to have things in order as much as possible...so I could be rushing around alot this week. But I know and I appreciate all that people are doing to help my family out, the cards and words of encouragement from many of you and ESPECIALLY THE PRAYERS! Keep it up & THANKS TONS!!! Friday is coming quickly!

Type to you later!

OK...Here goes...

2008-03-14T19:27:00.003-04:00

I am updating everyone, or just getting some new info to you about me.

I have been having some testing done since Oct for a "spot" on my lung. It was found when I was having trouble breathing and spent the day/night at the emergency room back then. So, anyway we waited and watched to do another scan or two to find out that it had grown a bit.

Now, after many tests and nothing conclusive, I will finally find out what is going on next Friday. Yep...it's been a roller coaster ride of not knowing and it will all be out then. So, Friday morning I have to be at B-North at 10:30am to prepare for surgery at 12:30pm.

The doctor will be doing a resection of my right lung and while I am just lying around, they will test it. If it is a tumor they will be doing a lobectomy/removing the upper part of my lung. Again, I will not know what they have done till I wake up...the first part is a hospital stay of 2-3 days with recovery 2-3 weeks. The second is a weeks stay and 6-8 week recovery....yuck!

I am not looking forward to not feeling well...and not looking forward to being off work for so long. I just might drive my family insane! (oh...I might have already...they are a bit crazy!!)

Anyway...here's what I need...PRAYERS! Prayers for my family, my doctors, my coworkers, all the people that are helping out while I am "recovering" and for me too. Don't feel bad if you didn't know before. I have been trying to not tell lots of people till I had some idea of what was going on...and I have never yet found out, so I have been slowly letting more people know!

I thank all of you that have been praying already. I know that God's timing is better than mine (yes Brian...I get it...just don't like it too much/sometimes!) and hopefully His plan is to get me well quickly! There's just toooo much to do this summer!

Thanks to everyone who is filling in for me at the office and those that are helping with the children! You are all a GREAT BLESSING to me!

Type to you later!

Snow is...

2008-03-10T11:59:00.002-04:00

Beautiful!!! Except when it makes the weekend schedule screetch to a halt! They cancelled our CIY SUPERSTART...LATE, I might add. We were all meeting at the church early, when thankfully I got a call from Robyn! Thank you!!! I had to call everyone and let them know they had cancelled even tho earilier they had told me they would not cancel-NO MATTER WHAT! Our friends from Michigan were more than halfway here...Most of our people were almost to the church. I was here at the church waiting for everyone.

Now...the CIY web site says they are trying to reschedule and will let us know by tomorrow! So, kids...get ready! We ARE GOING SOMETIME!!! Thanks parents! Sorry Kids! I am praying that we can all go when they reschedule!

Instead I know that everyone had a great time playing in the beautiful snow...safe and sound with their families! I have pictures...but they are on my computer at home. Some will come soon!

Hey kids from NP-3...thanks for all the GREAT CARDS!!!!

More Pictures!!!

2008-03-04T15:29:00.002-05:00

I finally got the pictures loaded here for Kid Nation...but there are MORE on our church web site. www.lovedtolove.org. Go to pictures section and enjoy!!

Where Have I Been???? Where Does The Time Go???

2008-03-02T21:06:00.000-05:00

How crazy is my life at times...the overnighter-KID NATION! Wow! It was GREAT! So many people helped and made it a fantastic evening and our LCC kids...they are GREAT too!!! I had soooo much fun with everyone, even the BIG KIDS seemed to get a little carried away at times. (silly string makes anyone & everyone a kid!) I tried 2 times that evening to load pictures here...no luck. I tried to load pictures on our web site...no luck. So, I am putting just a few here for you to see till I can get the bizillion that I took up for all to see.

Parents, thank you sooooo much for sharing your children with us. We LOVE them all!!! We learned that God it always there for us and that we can tell others about Jesus no matter what age we are! That even tho they are young they can still make a difference in our world today! Your children worked together and helped each other in the different "challanges" they faced through the night. And the band played for us to dance and shout and sing for our God.

Sleep...who slept???

Then, Sunday Michala Riggle and her family were here. We had talked about her and her wonderful mission of "Beading to Beat Autism." She and her family are quite an inspiration for us all-young and old! What a great family. They were a blessing to us all and Michala & Dalton sure love their brother Evan tons!

Swimming at Coco Key was fun for many of our LCC families...it was really neat & warm! Well, as long as you stayed in the water. I was warm, cuz I didn't get in the water. That night Julie O'Neal had her interviews with Michala, Brian, and a couple of our kids! Wow!!! Awesome!

It was a full weekend!! Very exhausting, but even more rewarding! Especially since, William, Angi, Toni and I finished off the night with ICE CREAM!!!! What a great weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Type to you Later!

ok...again...I am trying to add photos...I get this error code...alas...no picture yet! I will keep you updated on the "Mystery Kid Nation Pictures!"

KID NATION PICTURES!

2008-03-02T20:02:00.003-05:00

Only got a minute...

2008-02-22T16:28:00.002-05:00

It's HERE! KID NATION DAY!! Can you believe this snow??? And ice??? Well, to get all the stuff in the church I had to slip and slide to the door, then run under the waterfall that is coming down in front of the door! So, anyway, snow shoveling I was! You know, it would have been lots easier if no one had walked on it and the freezing rain had been lighter!!! Oh well, good start of exercise for the night...and I usually get plenty running up and down the steps!!

I can't wait, I am finishing up on the challenges for the night and think everyone will have a great time! KIDS RULE...can you imagine???

Well, if you read this tonight, say some prayers for us all...that we shine God's light for each other and everyone else when we leave here! Thanks for reading!

Type to you later!

TOMORROW IS IT!

2008-02-16T19:35:00.002-05:00

All 4th & 5th graders should sign up tomorrow & pay the deposit to get the early bird pricing for SuperStart! I will be in the foyer tomorrow between services!

Parents...don't forget!!!

Camp is coming up!

2008-02-15T17:49:00.006-05:00

So, Sign ups begin soon, for campers,
but we are always looking for some great counselors!

You too could be part of this great week! Sign up by emailing Brian TODAY!!!
You might just even win the most coveted prize of the week! Just ask Brett!!

Snow day!

2008-02-12T21:23:00.000-05:00

Yes, the weather men were correct...it did snow! I was prepared though. Since I have so much to do to get ready for our next two events for the kids, I brought home plenty of work to keep me busy. Plus I got to talk to many of our church family to reschedule our Olan Mills directory pictures. Oh, and I forgot, I got to talk with Dan Bacon and talk him though the great set up of computers and printers in my office. It was quite an experience for him...i think???

Kid Nation is coming quickly. Right now I have 40 kids signed up! Can you imagine it??? 40 kids in control??? It will be soooo much fun and I am sooo looking forward to it. I have been preparing our schedule for the night and letters to give to the parents on what their children should bring with them. It is always great fun for us all! Special thanks to the adults that come and help me all night. Chip and Jen Baxter, and Angi Gardner. Another adult to be named later will also be there, and our band will be playing before all the kindergarteners and 1st graders leave for the evening. If you didn't get your child signed up...this Sunday is the last chance for all!!!

SuperStart is coming for our 4th & 5th graders! The first weekend of March you will find us having a great night and all day Saturday with many other pre-teens from all over. Last year there were kids from Ky, Ind, Ill, Mich, and W. Vir besides Ohio! This year we will be joined with a group from Michigan. Mel Conover used to go to their church and they will stay with us at our church. It will be a great experience for our kids to meet up with them. Please be in prayer for their group's safty while traveling here for this event!

This weekend our Jr. Highers are heading to Believe. William is going this year and I'm not...I'm sad, since I have been for the past 4 years and love to go but I am excited for William to experience CIY with our group. This year I needed more girls to sign up so that I could go, but that didn't happen...so...hey you 6, 7 & 8th graders...next year sign up!!! Didi...I will miss getting to spend time with you too!!! Please find a few minutes this week to pray for this group. It is an awesome program for our teens and we are very blessed to have Dan and Didi give their time for our kids! THANK YOU BOTH...SO MUCH!

Well, that's it for tonight. I gotta get back to my Kid Nation schedule...woooo hooo!! Type to you later!

What a week!

2008-02-08T13:03:00.000-05:00

I come home to try and get right back in the swing of things only to get sick! It has been YUCKY!! Friday as I was leaving work at the city, my throat started killing me! I had been tired, and I thought it was from getting stuff caught up...never relizing what was coming up! I missed small group "again"...hoping not to "share" sickness with my group. I really do miss them all though!

Saturday I spent on my couch, in and out of sleep. I did shower and make it to our staff/leadership dinner, which, now looks like I might have shared my illness with Brian??? No, I still say Dan was sick first!!! I feel like I am in slow motion...Sunday I came to church and took care of stuff, but I think I was in a daze.

Then, that evening... I, myself, am excited when Super Bowl is here! We make a family event of it. Bill and William bought ribs and the fixins to cook for our event! It was good for me, since I could lounge on my couch and watch the game and the commercials! I Love it!

Football and sports have been a part of my life since I was 6 years old. My brother and I played any and all since we were little and my sister played when she came along too! My mom and dad coached us and others. We learned respect- for our coaches, parents and refs or umps; we learned sportsmanship - it's not just winning that's important, it's how you play and how you lose; we learned to do our best and that if we gave our best, that was all that was expected. We learned to strive to and for our goals and to never give up. We learned to encourage others and play as a team. Not that we were better than anyone else!

I think that sports can be used as a positive influence on our children. It can be used against them also though. I have seen parents irate and crazy that their kid is too good to sit the bench, or play on a non-winning team. I have seen the parent teaching their child they are better by fighting...how crazy is that??? It's really up to the adult. You can use anything and everything in your life as a teaching experience for your children. It's up to you as a parent to be the positive influence for them in every situation. (Even the bad ones.)

A few weeks ago we were watching football...imagine! When one of the players was still on the ground after a play. The camera showed the player with the trainers/drs on the field. It looked like it could be a bad injury. The next picture that showed on my TV was 3 of the players on their knees, holding hands, eyes closed and heads bowed in prayer! It was so awesome to see his team mates praying at that very time while he was still on the field. What a great moment to share with my family that men who are looked up as heros to by our children today would bow in prayer on the football field. Many of our sports heros are Christians and they let everyone know about it. What a great witness they all are! Most don't get the recongnition of being a Christian since our media doesn't promote it...but...you can find out more about each one on their web sites, maybe your child's sports hero is.

Ok...back to this week. The sicko yes, we have a sicko office. (I know...we always have a sicko office) But this time it was for real. Coughing is mainly what you will hear when you come in. It's probably not a good idea to come in though. Hopefully we will all be well and ready to jump back in to things on Sunday!

Thanks for all your prayers!

Welcome Home Holly!

2008-02-01T13:34:00.000-05:00

Yep, I am back to work. I switched my day off to have the extra day for the cruise, so it was back to the office on Wednesday morning. Then off to the city where I worked till I picked up William to go to Larosa's for dinner, then back to the church for our Wednesday night Celebration! It was a long day, but it was GREAT!

I was welcomed home with balloons all over my desk & computer from Emily, then welcomed by many who all had copier problems...oops...looks like the copier decided to take a vacation with me!! Anyway, to all of you out there that had no copies last week, it is now working again! YEA!!!

So I'm back to getting ready for our ALL NIGHTER coming up this month! KID NATION is Friday, February 22nd. All kids need to get their forms filled out by Sunday, February 10th...that's only 1 week away!! You can download them from our web site or get them at the check-in window! Payment is due by the following Sunday, February 17th. Make sure you do your Huddle for this Sunday. Parents should always check them out each week.

AND>>>SuperStart is coming up too! All 4th & 5th graders are invited to go with us on March 7th...it was great last year and I can't wait for this year! I got to see a bunch of the SuperStart people in Florida, even Eric!!! He was doing the dance! If you don't know about the dance, ask a 5th of 6th grader that went last year! They might even dance for you! The SuperStart registration form and $$ MUST be turned in by Sunday, February 17th so we can get the early bird prices!

Well....Happy February Everyone! I'm happy to be home, but sure wish it was warmer and the sun would come out! Type to you later!

Here it is! The story you've been Waiting For!

2008-01-29T12:55:00.001-05:00

I't all smoke and mirrors!! Or, sunshine and ocean! This is suppose to be our boat! I just couldn't smile and pretend it was this way!!! Really!

Here I am with our REAL BOAT! I saw pitures and a huge boat on the way here. Then after you get on the gang plank, you notice you are on a much smaller boat behind the beautiful big boat! No, really!!!

When we disembarked at Nassau, we had this boat take us ashore and we took these pictures to prove to you! no...REALLY!!

Then, they stuck us in a shark tank so we couldn't tell others of our horrors! I was a-feared for my life!!! Yes...really!!!

I took this picture out of the window...I wish I could have really seen the sights!! They look like it would have been really grand!

We are finally off the boat and I fought off security to take this picture of our "room?" I couldn't believe the rooms were so small...now you can see why...they were cages!

I just can't wait to get back to the cold, snowy, rainy, freezing weather! I know my fleece jackets are missing me and I surely do miss them too! See you all really SOON-back in fleece! Oh, and thanks for your prayers too! I never would have made it back alive to tell my story without them!

NO REALLY!!! HERE'S THE SCOOP!

2008-01-29T12:48:00.000-05:00

Cruisin'

2008-01-28T12:42:00.000-05:00

WOW!!!!WOW!!!!WOW!!!!!! The boat is HUGE, the place is BEAUTIFUL, and the people are GREAT! The room is little, and the bathroom and shower is tiny!! The toilet flush would suck a car out to the ocean!!!! They say not to stand tooo close and I surely do believe it!!! :)

You can walk on the boat with the pools, hot tubs, basketball nets, shuffle board, theatre (it's huge!) casino, formal huge dining room, buffets, lounges, shopping and even more and not really know that you are on a boat except when you veer a bit to the side while you are walking. At first I thought my knee was acting up, and then I would see others veer too. It is quite the experience! Internet is 55 cents a minute and realllllllllllllllly slooooow! I thought my dial up was slow!

And...Yes Alicia, you were right...you eat constantly! I know that a cruise would be Brian's DREAM VACATION! There is tons of food/everywhere & ALL THE TIME!

We are back today. I will blog some pictures and more stories! I may use up all the space on blogger to share it all. It has been a WONDERFUL TRIP! Even tho I am sore and bruised! Wait till you hear about my bravery!!!!

Type to you Later!

This is the day!

2008-01-25T12:12:00.000-05:00

This is it! I finally got to bed this am around 2 something, and now I'm running around packing for the cruise to the Bahamas!!! It is sooooo amazing that I am finally getting to go on one and I am sooooooooooooooo very excited! AND NERVOUS!! What a great son I have to take me!

I have packed so many clothes and different types cuz I have no idea what it will be like. From bathing suits & flip flops to shoes and sweatshirts with dresses, (yes I said dresses!!!) and everything else in between!

I sent a note to Brian earlier saying my favorite color is green, but I am really hoping that my face won't be that color while we are cruising!That would not be good!I was hoping to write here while we were out, but I hear it's REALLY EXPENSIVE...so, nope, I won't be!

OK...gotta get going! Type to you again SOON!

A Day at the Conference

2008-01-25T00:26:00.000-05:00

The day started out quite early. I got up by 5am to get Sean to work before 6pm so that I could use the car to get to the conference. It was dark!

My first workshop began at 7:45am, so I thought I would get some coffee before it started. This first one was so great! This ministry had some wonderful ways to help parents keep involved with their children's spirituality beginning at birth through high school. My second workshop was about new technology to use in children's ministry, and they were having tons of technical difficulties! The third one was fun. It was showing us 20 ideas for under $30 and it was PACKED! All the classes I went into had people sitting on the floor since all the seats had been taken. I just kept thinking how great it would be to have more of our leaders, teachers, and/or volunteers here with me. It is a wonderful experience!!!

We then had lunch and I met some really great ladies at my table. People are from all over the US. Kim, from Iowa asked me tons about Kidmo. Their church is about the same size as ours but only have a Sunday School hour for their kids.

In between the workshops and general sessions we get to go in the Rescource Center. This is where all the "goodies" are! Here are some pictures of the venders they have and boy, it's great to pick up all the "FREE STUFF!" My bags were full of stuff! I'm trying to figure out how to pack everything!

At dinner I met a group from Louisiana who LOVED our 4th of July outreach! She called herself back at her church to leave a message so that she would remember. The rest of the group were really excited to try it out this year.

I got to see the Kidmo peeps, the SuperStart peeps, and BIBLE MAN...see the picture!

Then...the bestest of all...GO FISH! Jared let me download their Christmas cd on my computer long ago! Now they are doing children's songs and are still wonderful.They put on an hour concert for us tonight and also performed some during one of the sessions. All parents should check them out! I did buy their new cd...I couldn't resist. So, if you would like to hear it, just let me know!

So, now it is LATE...or early...whatever you would like to say. I got back to the house at midnight and I am totally exhausted, BUT...I have all these new cd's, dvds, books, magazines and I bought our VBS for this year and I want to stay up allllll night to see it all! It's killing me to write here instead of checking them all out, but I needed to do this first.

Tomorrow afternoon we will be going on the cruise! I am so very excited! I'm sure I will have plenty of pictures to post when I return! Until then...oh yea, and thanks for "listening"!!!

From Snow to Sun!

2008-01-23T13:03:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, when I woke up it was not even snowing. It was somewhere around 30 degrees. By the time I went out the door to catch my ride with Mom to the airport it was covering the ground! Mom was very brave and drove me to the airport. God was watching over us, because we left just in time to not have a too awfully horrible ride!

The more we drove, the worse it got. We passed a van facing us that had spun around. We saw a couple more who had slid off the road, and right at the exit for the airport there was a HUGE backup because of a wreck! Blessed as we were, the exit lane was empty and we moved on. THANKS SOOOO MUCH FOR YOUR BRAVERY MOM!

Then, off the plane at Orlando to bright, sunny skys and 79 degrees! It is unimaginable that in 2 hours I could have such a drastic change in my surroundings! I am amazed that when I left home I ran hot water for "a while" to warm up the bathroom, and today I opened a window to get out all the shower steam! Wow!

Looks like soon I will be in the market for a new kitchen....

So, it was off to IKEA to check it out! I so love that store. Sean took me to the one in Chicago, and I couldn't wait to see this one here in Orlando! Did you know we are getting one in West Chester soon! I CAN'T WAIT!

What about the lime green dining room! It's actually Sean's...he takes after me with the lime green! What great taste!!

Today it is conference day for half a day and tomorrow I have to be there at 7:30am till 11:00pm. It sounds like a long and full day, and I CAN'T WAIT! I will try and share more later!

Type to you later!

Pictures tell the Story!

2008-01-21T15:01:00.000-05:00

I gotta share!!! After church the fam usually goes out for lunch. This week was Toots! This HUGE meal was consumed by one of my family...I'm not saying who!

OOPS! :)

Here are the SLIME GUYS!!! Thanks so much to Keith, George & Steve who look great in LIME GREEN!!!

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Brad Estep!

Here is my new fridge and cabinet that started this whole mess we are now in!

And...Here is my kitchen floor before all the layers were gone.Only a very small section is cut out so far. It is now down to the original wood of so long ago! (Yes, I am still sore!)

ok...that says some of the weekend events...I'll be typing to you again from Orlando Florida! Stay warm!!!!

Lots to do, Much to share!

2008-01-20T22:57:00.000-05:00

O.K. So I downloaded all the pictures I need to share about all that has been going on, and I ran out of time to put them on here with some info, so I will warn you now...it's been very, very busy!

Today the "Jolly Ranchers" got SLIMED and it was great! Especially since I got to do the slime pouring! Thank you Alisha for your slime stirring expertise! My hand is very sore since I spent most of Saturday helping my husband rip out 3 layers of flooring in our kitchen. It was suppose to be this easy, move a cabinet and add the new fridge...but...ended up showing us termite damage and now it looks like we have to gut the kitchen. Well, it could be awhile till this new adventure sees the finish line! I have this great idea. After we tear out the last wood flooring, maybe we could just pour concrete and fill it with water for an indoor pool! Well, I think it might just work!

Saturday night I got to attend Brad & Hillary's wedding. What a beautiful couple and what great things God has planned for them both! It was a great night!

Well, that's all the time I have for this evening. I will work on the pictures to follow up this writing. I am heading to bed...it's freezing in here...even with the new windows! I kinda cheat tho...I wait till Bill is already in bed and warming it up, then I go in and bless him with my cold feet! Yes, I keep telling him in the fine print at the bottom of our marriage license it said that he had to warm my cold feet! It's the husbandly duty God gave all husbands. I haven't quite found it in scripture yet, but I'm sure it's gotta be there somewhere!?!

Goodnight all!

Still Here!

2008-01-17T15:48:00.000-05:00

Still here, but going crazy!

This Sunday is our first ZOOM with Keith, Steve & George, come on and have a great time with us this Sunday and join us on our quest to discover more about God at 8:45 or 11:15am in NP-3! IT'S SLIME TIME TOO!!!

Hey...there's also some new stuff on the web (lovedtolove.org) for the kids...THE ALL NIGHTER IS COMING!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Check out the info and get ready for a great time!!!!

2008-01-14T15:54:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile since I've written here...sorry, tons of stuff going on! So, here is a few pics of the "happenins!"

Trans Siberian Orchestra...Ben (my nephew) took me for my Christmas present! It was GREAT! They have a wonderful light show!!! Here are the lazers during one of the songs! It was a great experience! Thanks Ben!!

Then, I had a BIRTHDAY!!!! Oh, no!!! I received flowers from Geneva & the preschool teachers! A card and gift certificates from the Richard family! YUM YUM!!! My boss at the city took us all out for lunch! We have MANY January birthdays! Here is the cake they brought to me at Fridays! And, the pictures are the city gang hard at work! I got many cards...thanks to you all! and...roses and cards and dinner from my family! My mom, bro and sis all called and Sonny even SANG!!! wooo hooo! Mom brought some goodies too! Thanks to you ALL for a great birthday!!!

Well, I gotta get to Toni's BB game!
Type to you later!

All Things Are Possible

2008-01-03T09:15:00.000-05:00

The following is an email I received today from Sandy. She has been battling cancer for quite awhile and I know she would covet your prayers for her today. Could you please pray for her today and this week? Thank you so very much! Holly

Today's Scripture

“Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26 NIV).

Are you facing something today that seems impossible? With man it may be, but with God, ALL things are possible! If you seem to be in an impossible situation, get with God! Sometimes it’s so easy to focus on our problems and try to solve them in our own strength. But remember, the battle belongs to the Lord. He has a plan for your victory. He has a plan to give you a way out. He is making the things that seem impossible, possible. You can trust Him today. The Bible says that He has plans for your good, not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Start believing and confessing today, “I am with God, and with God all things are possible!” Are your bills piling up? With God, all things are possible. Do your relationships need healing? With God, all things are possible. Is there sickness in you body? With God, all things are possible! As you meditate on God’s power, He will work in your life, and you will step forward into that place of victory He has in store for you.

Heavenly Father, thank You for making a way where there seems to be no way. I choose to trust You, and I believe that all things are possible! Show me Your power today. Work through me to encourage those around me to trust You more. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

I lift my eyes to the hills,
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2

In His Hands,
^j^ ^j^sandy gentry

New Year's Eve 2007

2007-12-31T12:46:00.000-05:00

Reflections of the year gone by...wondering what the new year will bring...what are you doing this new year's eve??? Was it a great year, did it stink? Will this year be better? Will it be rougher?

No matter what this past year brought to you and no matter what the new year brings, I pray that you and I will always know that God is in Control and He is still there for us through it all. Through the happy and sad and through the healthy and the sick. I will be praying for you...will you pray for me?

I heard this the other day and love it...

PRAYING SHOULD BE ACTION....NOT A REACTION...

Don't wait for the bad things to happen before you take the time to talk to God...He is always there and wants to have a relationship with you. Talk to Him EVERY DAY! Let Him know what you are thinking and doing, share with Him your life by making Him your life and letting Him take control! He Loves YOU!!!!

What a great way to start off the new year!
HAPPY 2008!

Wishes and Dreams

2007-12-24T13:53:00.000-05:00

We have returned from Orlando, and Disney, and it is Christmas Eve! Boy does time fly by! I just wanted to share some photos of Cinderella's castle and just how beautiful it is for Christmas! All the Disney parks were decked out for Christmas, and they are still singing Christmas songs too! I am so very glad!

Why do people who do not celebrate Christmas say they are offended, when Christians are not offended when someone says Happy Hanukkah or Kwanzaa? I'm not too sure. Anyway, it was BEAU - T - FUL!!! We had a nice vacation and got some rest and relaxation. The weather wasn't the warmest, but it definitely wasn't as cold as here!

Cinderella wanted a beautiful ice castle, so we all helped make her wish come true. Here's to you and that all your wishes and dreams come true too!

With God, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!
Merry Christmas!

Sign, sign, everywhere a sign!

2007-12-18T21:10:00.000-05:00

Signs are so very important and a big part of our everyday lives...check out these signs we have seen so far!

When we got to Florida, we went to Celebration where Sean lives. All over town you see signs all about the SNOW they have nightly in town! Yes, you read right! They have snow every night! We will be going there sometime this week, cause we never get to see snow...RIGHT!

Downtown there is a beautiful lake. It has aligators in it!!! So, this sign is needed!

We had some rain...along with the sunshine. The sign we got a RAINBOW!

We went to the Holy Land Experience on Monday. It was chilly outside, but there were many signs all around us! Yes, He IS RISEN INDEED!

The Ten Commandments and Living Water!Yes, Alicia, I did get to see the tabernacle...can't wait to share with all the girls! It was awesome to see what we had been learning about in our Bible Study!

But the best sign to know is this sign! If you haven't found Jesus yet...check out where you just might find Him!

2007-12-14T10:50:00.000-05:00

I'm finally getting to write a few lines about Sunday...Church, with Patty & Jared Pachta in NP-3...what a GREAT FAMILY!! God Blessed us with many wonderful families here at LCC and they are surely one of them!! After church was the Children's Ministry lunch and White Elephant swap...all went well, I think. There was a few problems, like some kids got great gifts they definitely did not want to give up. But then there were some who wanted to get rid of their gifts, but didn't get to! Well, that's what happens in the white elephant world! Here is Heidi and her new perfume! It's new car smell! Mike wasn't too keen on it, but someone said if it was "new truck smell" he would be all over her!! Oh, no! Not at church!!!!

Steve got some beautiful red "Dorothy" shoes...but Meredith said they would never fit him. She was right, and she ended up very happy since she took them home!

The food was great, the people were great, and what can I say but...GREAT! I can't ever say enough thanks to all who make LCC children's ministry so great! We have so many wonderful people who truly love God and our children! YOU ARE GREAT BLESSINGS TO US ALL!! THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!! I would also like to thank everyone who donated to the lunch...it helped out TREMENDOUSLY!!

After the lunch, we cleaned up the mess in the Fellowship Hall and the kitchen. Thanks sooooo much for Alicia staying to help...but...especially to Geneva, Spencer & Kendall with a bit of help from William! They helped to clean, but then help me load all the gifts from the tree for the LIFE Giving Shoppe! We then all went to deliver them at the shoppe and talk with some of the ladies setting everything up! The volunteers at LIFE are soooooooooooooo very wonderful! They give soooo much of their time and love for our community, and we are blessed to have such a great ministry here in Loveland! THANK YOU TO ALL WHO VOLUNTEER AT LIFE! Since I am writing this on Friday, we (Geneva, Nikki & I) went back to help clean up after the shoppe closed. There were over 180 families that went through.

It is quite an honor to be a part of the community outreach! Did you know that YOU are a part of it? Not only did we buy gifts to put under the tree, but we sponsor them monthly through missions! Yep...If you give to missions at our church, you are part of this great ministry! WAY TO GO!!!

THEN...
back to the church for the Children's Choir Program!!

The kids all did a FANTASTIC job! It was a great show and we had 2 nights of a packed house! WAY TO GO KIDS! After the show Kaitlin sang for those that were left!
What a very full and rewarding day!

Late Night...need to go to bed!

2007-12-12T00:16:00.000-05:00

I've been busy keeping William on task. He has an oral book report due tomorrow which had to have a visual aide. He read about Tom Browning, so it was all about the Reds during the "Big Red Machine" days! It was very interesting listening to him talk about everything and remembering some of the facts he was telling me about. Boy, does time fly!

I skipped out on city work tonight...oops! We had to buy poster board, so we met Grandma for dinner, borrowed her REALLY BIG suitcase for my trip, went to the Post Office to order a passport, (Sean says I need one!) did a bit of laundry, ordered some books online for Sean for Christmas, read emails, finished up on paying bills, actually bought a couple Christmas gifts for neices and nephews, and now, I am just sitting here thinking I'd better head off to bed! But, as always, it is nice to sit here in the quiet part of my day and relax!

I have a full day tomorrow, even tho it's my day off. Things to buy for our trip, more laundry to do, packing to start, work to do at the city, and I really need to finish up stuff at the church so it hopefully won't be tooooo crazy for all the volunteers this next week! I am also hoping I can get back to this blog and load some more pictures from this past weekend. Sunday was VERY busy and I have some really good photos to share!

You can see some I took Sunday if you go to the church website, and click on "photos". The children's choir performed "Fear Not Factor" and I took LOTS of pictures of the kids...check it out!They did a fantastic job! Many thanks go out to Jen Richard & Robyn Kerman for leading the children on this excellent adventure!

Well, I think I will sit and flip channels awhile b/f I head off to the bed!

Gooooooooooooooood Night!!

Show Choir Christmas at the High School!

2007-12-10T12:24:00.000-05:00

Saturday I took a small break from working at the city to see my niece, Toni perform with the Showchoir. The High School and the Middle School all sang togther. My mom, brother, sister and their families all showed up for a great time of Christmas carols! It was a wonderful show! Way to go TONI!!! We are so very proud of you and love you very much!

We even got to hear our friend Samantha Baker sing her solo! We miss her...haven't seen her at church in awhile, so it was great to talk with her and give her a big hug! Nice singing and dancing Sam!!! AND...we got to see Rudolf and Frosty!!

Later that evening (after more hours at the city) I helped out at the Loveland Stage company with Angi by taking tickets and then helping Jared by doing the Hospitality. It was a rather FULL day! I ended the day by going to Larosa's at 10pm for my lunch? dinner? late night snack????

And...that's just Saturday...wait till I write about Sunday!
Have a happy day!

I LOVE SNOW!!

2007-12-08T10:11:00.000-05:00

Our first real snow, and it was beautiful! This week William had 2 - 90 minute delays for snow and then icy roads. I think he would like to get used to that! A little extra sleep always helps! Plus, it was great packing snow...so...he likes to use his mom & dad for target practice! That's ok since we like to use him for our target too!

It was a great snow, since the roads got cleared easily, and now, today it seems we will keep getting rain and it will warm up to melt it all away. It is so sad...

Don't fear tho kids! We have a winter wonderland in NP-3 this week! The stage has been transformed and it is WONDERBAR!!! Thank you soooooo much to Nikki Irwin & Geneva Myers! It is soooooooooooooooo much fun working with these ladies...makes my job even more fun being with them!!! I am soooooooooooo very blessed to have them helping out in our children's ministry!

We have our Children's Ministry Lunch & White Elephant Exchange tomorrow after church. I can't wait to see the "beautiful & meaningful" gifts that are exchanged!
Should be an exciting afternoon! Our children's choir will perform tonight and tomorrow at 7pm...get your tickets online with Jen at jrichard@lovedtolove.org, or see her in between services at the office window. It's gonna be a GREAT SHOW!

Hope you are having a wonderful weekend! See you tomorrow at church!

1st Band Concert for 6th Grade!

2007-12-04T15:01:00.000-05:00

Ok...you know we did all this shopping for the concert. New black pants and shoes, which, by the way he went from a size 7 shoe to a 9 1/2...can you believe it??? Anyway, I went from work at church to work at the city to home long enough to scarff down some cold spaghetti. (yep, Bill made it today, since we had electric, but they ate earlier than me)Then, off to school.

William had to be there by 7:30. When we got there, Grandma B was already waiting with seats saved for us right up front! So, we sat and talked awhile then the kids started coming in and filled the gym. There is no sitting for the band, so we couldn't see William very well. He was back a ways. These pictures tell you how difficult it was to see him. Anyway, the concert began at 8pm with Mr. Hilliker welcoming us all to the concert. Then Mrs. Dennedy also welcoming us and letting us know how and where to pick up our children after the concert.

Then some Christmas songs, (or Holiday Songs...as they say at school) like Jingle Bells, Jingle Bell Rock, and Frosty the Snowman - and they played very well (I am a parent, you know)Anyway...the concert was over...yes, I said over at 8:08pm!!!!!

Talk about quick! It took longer for the parents to file out and find their children in the cafeteria! But it was good to see some of the moms & dads & kids we hadn't seen in awhile.

This weekend we will hear Toni sing with Cocoa & Carols with Santa at the High School and work more at the Stage Company for the Jingle Bell Rock...Christmas is coming!!! And...they say it will snow tomorrow...YEA!!! Maybe I will get out and buy at least one gift!

Merry Christmas to you ALL!!!

Where Does the Time Go?

2007-12-03T14:02:00.001-05:00

Why do the weekends and kid's growing up seem to go so very fast?? This pix was from a shopping trip a couple years ago.

Friday night I went out to dinner with the family then met my small group at the Preston's. It was suppose to be a movie/game night, but Darren managed to sneak in a little Jesus stuff since we seemed to have a full house! It was GREAT!
I can't say the euchre games were so great tho...seemed to me that if 9s & 10s were the highest you could get, I would definitely have been winning but... Sorry Keith!! We did pull out one game tho! If you get the chance, ask Darren & Julie to do the "we're in the barn" mooooove!! Then we played a little catch phrase. I must say, there was a lot of white bread on the sock action ...what about it Randy??? We had a great time!

Saturday was full with cleaning and working and volunteering...it went quickly!

Sunday was the same. Church from 8 to about 1, lunch with the family at TOOTS! We hadn't been there in awhile, then to Kohl's for some new "band concert" attire for William. We then had to get to basketball practice, then to Blockbuster for a new rental game for the wii and stopped at Starbucks for a coffee/hot chocolate. Toni Marie spent the day with me and William. It was great spending time together again...just like the good ole days before she and Wm grew up so fast! We were heading for home when Bill called to ask us to pick up some garlic bread. He was making dinner!!! Spaghetti and meatballs!! YUM! Well, you might know, might not, but it had been raining ALLLLL DAY! Sometimes harder than others. And, as you also may know, it ALWAYS seems to rain harder when you are "outside" of your vehicle, rather than harder when you are "inside". Needless to say, I was SOAKED! I made Tooooo many trips to and from my car! And it was a bit chilly yesterday too!

Well, we got home and guess what...no electricity! Yep, no lights, heat, and NO TV and No spaghetti!! What will we do??? Well, Bill lit lots of candles and we waited for Duke to send their man to fix it, and William ate the meatballs! The electric finally came on around 9:00pm, just in time for Bill to watch the Bengals, and get mad at them and go to bed.

It was a very full day and went so very fast, but was nice spending time with William and Toni...hopefully we will do it again really soon!

It's Saturday! YEA!

2007-12-01T14:10:00.001-05:00

William and I have been cleaning a bit, he is bugging me now for food! Guess I better feed the child and then get to the city for a few hours. After that I must help out at the Loveland Stage Company...

What a great and relaxing day! Yea, right!

Hope all is well with you!

Egyptian Day at LIS!

2007-11-30T15:16:00.000-05:00

They made headdresses and costumes in art and at home. They spent the last few weeks learning all about Egypt and their customs, then celebrated today with games, food, plays, songs, and a movie. It was even a half day so they loved it! Even the teachers dressed up!

Where's your mummy???

This mummy got to help in the game room! I did make ricekrispy treats and cucumbers for the snacks. I even made my name in hieroglyphics! I like signing up to help...I get to be one of the kids!

Blessings in Many Ways!

2007-11-30T05:55:00.000-05:00

Yep, here I am at 4am and can't sleep! I do this occassionally when my mind is full of new ideas and exciting things coming up! I can't rest, thinking of how to make these ideas a reality and wondering who all will be a part of it!

Most people are over Thanksgiving and moving on to the busy Christmas season. I, on the other hand have been working on not just December things, but 2008 EXCITING EVENTS!

I don't have one (1) Christmas gift yet! And, did you know that tomorrow is Dec 1st??
It's really hard to believe! I am hoping it snows soon so I will get out and do some shopping...anyway...

We spent the whole Thanksgiving weekend moving our rooms around. We did accomplish this, with still many things to finish off. But, the rooms are moved, and William is in a much bigger room than before. He is estatic! Not only that, but his big brother decided that the Wii that William has been wanting would be a great gift for his birthday! Yep...it is sooooo much fun!! I love it too! I will hopefully get the rest of the things moved and straightened as soon as I can. The windows are in. They look and feel soooo much better! We still have many projects to do, but they will have to wait.

Today I am going to school for an Egypt Day party for the 6th grade Endevor Team. I think I will be in the game or music room...not sure yet. I had to make treats and bring cucumbers. (what are they for?)We will see! I picked up supplies for treats for our Sunday Beefesians party. (Cow patties for everyone!)and also stuff for our Sunday school class. Not to mention, bread for lunches and my supplies needed for small group tonight. Yep...LJ & Jared P, you can be happy, I shopped at KROGER! Today will be full. I need to finish stuff for the office, type up a Huddle, work on our party for Sunday, the newsletter, pick up and take Toni to school, go to the city and work, and get to small group.

I'm really not stressed tho...it's hard to believe, but it is true. I got to spend time with some great ladies at the Bible Study yesterday. ALICIA WEBER...YOU ROCK! Then got to spend time with Nikki & Geneva as we worked together for our kids at LCC.It was great spending time with them! I am soooo very blessed by God! He has given me some really great friends/family and I sure do love them LOTS! Thank you to all who give so much time, love and energy to our children's ministry!I want to thank Karen Huffman for being WONDERFUL too!Thanks for always being there to help out!

This past 2 weeks (and before) I have been working on our 2008 schedule, but also what will be happening at LCC for our kids before that! We have our teachers in place, new curriculum and some great surprises! Kidmo Christmas is coming our way in NP-3...it will be great! Some great activities for our preschoolers, and a fun afternoon for all our children's ministry volunteers! Then, there is also the kids choir performances, Christmas Eve services and many Christmas parties! Woo HOO!

I met with Rosa and Cathy this week for some exciting VBS talk and got some great ideas from them for our new series in January called ZOOM. Yes, I know VBS isn't until July, but we work on it all year! Brian has been working on camp...so my mind is racing on who will come and share this great week with us and what all we will be doing!(in June)We have lazer tag coming up in January, overnighter in Febuary, SuperStart in March and also a Easter break activity (possibly another overnighter!), and Easter egg hunt...the list goes on!

No wonder I can't sleep! I can't wait!

2008 IS GONNA BE GREAT! Come and join in on all the fun ways to learn more about OUR GREAT GOD!!

Soooo busy!

2007-11-28T09:52:00.000-05:00

Yep, that's right...fortunately all is going well...unfortunately, I don't get to write in here and let you know all that is going on...

Well, I'm off to the City to work! Hopefully tonight I will stay up late and write a few more lines!

Hope you all are well, had a GREAT THANKSGIVING, and will wait for me to find more time for this here blog!Have a great day!

Type to you again REALLY SOON! (I hope!)

Thanksgiving with the Baxter's

2007-11-22T08:38:00.001-05:00

This year we all were invited to Chip & Jen's new house for Thanksgiving. We always celebrate early so we can all hit the other families we are in without it being to hectic of a day. We actually had this last Sunday night, but this is the first time I have had to write. I have LOTS more stuff that happened this week, and of course I always have my camera, so hopefully I will be adding more really soon! Anyway...

Chip bought the turkey...and saved money and then cooked it! Jen made the mashed potatoes...they worked so well together in the kitchen. It was a blessing to see them. All the rest of us brought more stuff to add to our feast! Sonny & Shelby always make the bestest dessert around! You should see the pies! We all waited patiently...kind of...for our meal!

The migration of family to the table to partake of the FEAST! Everything finished at the same time, and we ate, and ate, and ate! It was a great dinner! Thank you SO VERY MUCH Chip and Jen, you are the bestest around! It was wonderful to be with family and the food was FANTASTIC!

Looks like it was a great turkey! Really, there was a little left and Chip was going to share with his co-workers and Jen planned on turkey sandwiches for this week.

Today is the real Thanksgiving that everyone will be celebrating! We will head to the Pop & Mamma Kern's today for another HUGE feast! Holidays shouldn't be hectic and full of stress, so today, take some time and be thankful for your family and how about giving out some of those wonderful HUGS!

Hey...and...HAPPY TURKEY DAY!

We're still havin' a GRRREAT time in NP-3!

2007-11-16T10:33:00.000-05:00

Yep, it's still happenin'. Lots of great times in our children's ministry every Sunday morning! Come on along and visit with us...We'll be keepin an eye out for ya! This Sunday is the GREAT STEVE, KEITH & GEORGE at 8:45 & 11:15am!

The gals are ridin' off to see Angi and Heidi...welllllll,

I thought it was Angi & Heidi! I'm not too sure who this was!?!

Our General Store is now OPEN! Yea! The kids got to shop 2 weeks ago! Last week was Family Sunday, so they need to bring back their MAP Book this week to get more trading points! They receive points for being here, bringing offering for Lomi, their Bible, and a friend also! The next shopping date will be on December 2nd during our Beefesians party!So...rack up them ther' points kids!

See ya all on Sunday!!

Here are some pictures!

2007-11-15T15:19:00.000-05:00

We came and saw the sign. Inside we signed in, got our hats/hair nets, sanitized our hands, then went to work. Each of us had a part of the ingredients that made up a bag that held 6 servings of food. They were then weighed and sealed.

I met Donna Julliard when I came in. She had just finished a shift. William & I, Jared & Patty Pachta and the kids, Samantha, Spencer, Sydney & Shala were at one table. Angi & Toni & my mom were at the weighing stations. Shelby and Sonny (my sis & bro) were heading up this awesome outreach. Ben, Chip & Jen were there all day helping out. Jeannie came and brought the kids. Rosa & Vic were all dayers too!!

I have to say seeing all those people working together for 1000 children they do not know made me feel GREAT! And...

knowing so many of them are part of my life is just even more AWESOME! I am truly blessed to have so many wonderful people in my life!

The truck was filled and we had even more left to go to back to Lifeline. I hear Shelby is working at the Missionary Convention this weekend to do even more! YOU GO SHELBY!!!

What can I say...it was an awesome way to spend some time, actually helping others instead of just talking about it! And...doing it with many people in my life that I love! Thank you God for all you have given me!

I got lots of pictures!

2007-11-12T23:12:00.000-05:00

It was a VERY BUSY weekend! The windows ARE IN!! William and I helped 998 other people get food together for 1000 Haitian children for a year with my FANTASTICALLY, WONDERFUL sister-in-law, Shelby, and the rest of my family and lots of friends! (The pictures are coming!) Cleaned house a bit, did laundry, paid bills, went to the grocery, went to church, taught class, had lunch with family, talked Chip and Jen into having our family Thanksgiving at their new house (you guys ROCK!), read a book Jen gave me, did some of my Bible Study homework, worked on attendance for Monday, and even took a small nap! All not quite in this order!)

All that in two days! And it was GREAT! I can't wait to put all the pictures of the weekend here in the ole' blog! (There aren't any of me napping!!)I need to do it from the church tho, it would take days to load them from home...so...hopefully tomorrow I will have the chance to do that!

Our email is now working again! Way to go Dave!!! So...we are back in the emailing business again!

Type to you tomorrow!

My Kids!!!

2007-11-09T18:41:00.000-05:00

I always wanted zillions of kids! My dream was to live on a farm with LOTS of land, a garden, horses, a big farm house and all the work to go with it! I also wanted to have many (yes I said many) kids! People always thought I was crazy! Yes, I know, so do you!!! I met a lady that had 13 kids and she loved it! She said she had a baker's dozen and that their family was so close. She was even still sane. (or at least I thought so)and I thought, wow, that would be sooooo GREAT!

God blessed me with two children (one more, if we wanna count my husband)and I always wondered why I wasn't suppose to have the dozen or so tht I dreamed about...

Well, maybe it was have time for other children???? When I was still in school I would coach and ump softball. I loved it! I taught in a preschool, and loved it!I coached girls basketball when I lived in Germany, and loved it! I taught bowling to children and seniors, (I think they are about the same...and love them both!)and loved it. I babysat family's and friends children and loved that. I would house/child sit while parents had their break...I loved that! I teach at my church and love that!!! Here are some of "my kids"! This is my Sunday School class with my very best helper, Mr. Mike. We learn LOTS of cool stuff in our class...

JUST LOOK!!!!

How could I have ever have kept up with all the children I have met over the years and still keep up with a dozen of my own? God knew better than I did again...can you believe it???

My favorite thing to do is an KIDS OVERNIGHTER!!! Most think I'm a bit crazy, and I guess maybe I am! I'M CRAZY ABOUT KIDS!!!!

The Windows Are HERE!

2007-11-08T23:22:00.001-05:00

Yea! I am really excited to see these windows! Hopefully we will have less cold air coming in and warm air going out! Bill and a couple of his friends are planning on starting on them tomorrow. Right now it is a dream come true for me! We have always felt the breeze from outside anywhere you would go in our house. I'm excited that maybe our Duke bill will be a bit smaller and easier to pay, and we can wear less fleece while we are inside!

Of course, there will be a good breeze while they are taking out the old ones and replacing them! Our old windows are actually kind of neat! They still have the cord and weights that would hold the window up when you wanted them to be open. When cars go by our house too fast you can actually hear them moan & rattle. The glass has that "melting" look in places. It is another of my amazing thoughts since they were made in the 1800's! Who would have thought that anyone would have kept them for all these years!

I would greatly appreciate it, if you get the chance, to please pray for my husband and his friends that they can get them in with no accidents and that not too much added supplies and incidentals will be needed. Who knows what all the wood looks like under and around these windows! I will definitely be helping out by staying out of their way, but will continually be praying!!!

Here is also the finished steps from our earlier project. I'm thinking they look pretty good! Way to go Bill and you too Harry! Thanks for all your hard work!

Yes, we are still working on changing rooms. I was really hoping to have it all finished by William's birthday, but it is looking a bit undoable...we shall see! I might just have to move my "target" date to Christmas! Yes, we are staying quite busy here at the Kern homestead!

Email Note...just wanted to let you all know that our email isn't working very well right now at the church. If you have emailed me in the last couple of days and I haven't answered, please call me, cause I haven't gotten it! I'm not ignoring you...really!

Can you believe it???

2007-11-04T21:51:00.000-05:00

It's already November!!! 2007 only has 57 more days to go! Where has the year gone?

William's birthday is only 2 weeks away, Thanksgiving, our vacation, Christmas and then 2008! Wow, it's so hard to believe!

I'm wondering if I can squeeze in so much stuff in these last days of 2007. We are still in the process of changing rooms, building closets in our house and now we are getting new windows! (Supposedly this coming week!) Our windows are the original from 1880 also! Back then I wonder if the time seemed to go as fast as it does for us today.

My house was built with no electric. There is a fireplace that heated the house in what used to be the kitchen. It is soon to be our bedroom again. There was no bathroom in our house! I guess somewhere in our backyard was an outhouse...yuck!(it's just tooo cold out there!) Now we have a bath and a half. There was no running water. Our basement is actually a cellar. There is an old staircase in the back that doesn't go to anything anymore, because there is a room added on, and it also has an old coal shute. A neighbor said they remember when it had a dirt floor, but there is now concrete. When I look at the stone that our foundation is made of, I try and imagine how many people it took to build, and how long and hard they must have worked to build it. When I touch the stone I am touching the past of long ago. 128 almost, years ago...it's amazing to me! Did the people who built this house so long ago ever imagine the changes this house would go though? Would they have known it would still be standing strong? Could they even imagine the new fangled things invented today? I think not.

But...God did! He knew me and you before we were born. He knew where we would be placed in this world and with what family we would be a part of. He knows everything about us. He loves us...we are His children...He is our stone foundation! Have we all gone though the changes He planned for us, or are we taking a detour to that destination? Are we putting ourselves first instead of HIM? We have a little time left in this year. Can we try for the next 57 days to spend more time listening to what He wants to tell us by reading His Word, talking to him in prayer, and then STOP...and LISTEN! Take some time to see the changes in the world around us. Let's soar on wings of eagles! The leaves have turned golden, and brown. The frost is back. The sky is still blue. God is talking to you.

Our family-at work & play!

2007-10-29T14:08:00.000-04:00

Here's the family...working to break down the old stepsin front of our house. What fun??!! We are also building closets, painting and moving rooms. Who's idea was this anyway???

Here are my guys! Sean came into town for Susan Ezell's wedding! Congrats Susan! We had a great time going to Larosa's and O'Charlies. Sean also hit The Works with his dad. He always has to get to these great places to eat while he is home!

I want to thank God for my family! Love you guys LOTS!

Late Night/Early Morning

2007-10-27T00:30:00.000-04:00

I just looked at the clock...12:30am Saturday morning, or Friday Night??? I haven't gone to bed yet, so I am counting this as still Friday.

It has been a busy week. Trying to get caught up with all that needs to get done in the office, at home and at the city. Along with all the new things: Getting the General Store ready to open in NP-3, trying to get a 08 budget ready, working on getting a new copier for the office, looking at all the monthly bills we have that could be lessened. Working on moving and cleaning rooms at the house, getting ready to build closets and get new windows, scrubbing bathrooms. (yuck!) Working on piles of filings at the city, along with other duties. Seems like I will be catching up for quite awhile. So, what did I do tonight?

Went out to dinner with Kelly and then to a Worship Concert! I shirked all my "needs to get done" list and worshiped for 90 minutes with LOTS of other people at the Vineyard. It was great! My friend, Linda, from the city, met us there and so did part of my small group! It was so very nice to sing, pray, sing, pray, and sing! Now I feel energized to get my work done! (or, at least work on it all!)

I came home and worked on the General Store points for the children of NP-3. Some of them have been working very hard to get points to trade for their goods! I think they will be excited to see it opening soon! Tomorrow (later today) I will be working on the rest of my list! Hopefully it will shrink down quite a bit this weekend!

Oh, and HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO DARREN & RANDY!!! May this be the very best year ever!!