Scripture to Ponder

This is the day the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it!

Psalms 118:24


Thursday, December 5, 2013

Have Joy, Pray, Give Thanks

Well, I apologize for being away for a spell, but you can say I truly enjoyed my break for the Thanksgiving holiday and look forward to the next one, Christmas! I have so much to be thankful for and love this time of year. Maybe that's why God chose the Thanksgiving season for my birthday LOL. Yes, I had a birthday on November the 26th, and was truly given the most wonderful blessing. I went to MD Anderson for my routine 6 month PET scans. I had been studying God's word each morning, praying and focusing on his presence in my life before going to my  appointment. This time, I felt such a peace about it. The verse that kept coming to my mind was 1Thessalonians 5:16-18, a very timely scripture for this time of year: "Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." As I memorized this verse, the part that was difficult was the "all circumstances". We readily accept good from God, but rarely thank him for the bad. I have Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and could not imagining thanking God for that. But in time, I could because my battle and bout with chemo drew me ever so closer to Him. That I can say I am thankful for. If it had not been my cancer, then maybe I would not have grown in my faith. So, to the main point...my doctor came in to share my news that the spot  that we have been tracking for more than two years had completely disappeared! Now that's what I call a great birthday blessing!

As if that was not enough for this season of thankfulness, I was blessed with a new grandson (number 6 grandchild) born on November 29th, which had us traveling to Austin for his birth. There's just nothing like snuggling with a newborn baby. I miss him already, but do have to get back to work.

May you enjoy the upcoming season and focus on Jesus which should be the main reason we celebrate Christmas!

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Isaiah 40:31

Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. -Isa 40:31— Follow Jesus (@FwJesus) November 12, 2013   I needed to read this, how timely for me.


Oh Lord, do I need extra strength today, but more so I pray that you renew strength in my husband and brother as they care around the clock for their father who is critically ill. We are in week 5 and it has been a very stressful and sad time for our family. Please Lord, we know you are in control and your plan we have to trust. In your son's name I pray, Amen.

Monday, November 4, 2013

Your Talent(s) from God

Friday, October 18, 2013

A Thief in the Night

1 Thessalonians 5:2 talks about the "day of the Lord" (punishment and/or blessing) will come like a thief in the night. That scripture has been on my mind lately, when Christ will judge sin and set up his eternal Kingdom. We had an unfortunate event in our family with my father-in-law who fell and received a brain bleed. He is 85 years old and has been living alone for approximately 17 years. He has been in ICU for a week and a half and just recently we had him moved in a rehabilitation hospital. This event has changed our lives and as well as all of his immediate family. From our experience with this, I have one thing to say to anyone who has elderly parents. Get involved! Know where they bank, where they keep important papers, and by all means offer to help them. My husband (he is the eldest, only one other brother) did not expect for this to happen so suddenly: like a thief in the night! Doctors kept asking them if he had a living will or power of attorney. We had to go to the house on a scavenger hunt until we were able to locate the living will. We realized how unprepared we were for such a sad event. Please don't wait for you to get prepared. Write down the information where you can locate it when needed. Don't wait until they get too old to remember and answer your questions. I pray this will inspire someone to get prepared and enjoy your aging parents NOW!

Monday, September 30, 2013

A Thing of Beauty (Controversy)

There are two opposing views on the beauty of the Cross...one considers that it is NOT beauty, but ugly, horrifying death of torture and pain. The other view considers the crucifixion in another light and that's the thought of the cross after Jesus overcame death and was risen! It looks at the saving grace He provides for us. The first article (View 1) was read before our Lord's Supper Sunday. See what your view is:

View 1: Taken from Communion Meditations (blog by George)  "A Thing of Beauty"

View 2: Taken from Pastoral Meanderings (blog by Pastor Peters) "The Cross is Not Pretty"

Saturday, September 21, 2013

Is it Good Luck?




I was reading an article about luck and how that having luck is not really how you should look at things. For someone who is a child of God, luck has nothing to do with it. You should see things as blessings from God whether or not you expected it or if it came as a complete surprise. God blesses His children and many times we have to wait on God, and accept His timing. God's answers are not always immediate. In Romans 8:28 we can read:

Romans 8:28

New International Version (NIV)
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

So the next time someone tells you "Good luck" or says you are "lucky" set them straight by sharing God and explaining that God is good.

Monday, September 2, 2013

95 Year Old Writes Song to Wife

Was very touched by the pure love and devotion of this 95 year old man. Such a touching story, you will be glad you took the time to hear it. It made me appreciate my husband all the more. I want to focus on making more "good times" to do all over again!

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

ABC Family and Superbook

Superbook Summer on CBS and ABC Family
This would be great to record to watch together as a family! I just LOVE, love the visuals on these bible stories. I think they are well done and can be great to teach some basic bible knowledge to your children. My husband watched one with our grandchildren and they stayed engaged throughout the entire movie. Check them out! They are premiering through August 30th at 8:30 am CST.

Thursday, August 22, 2013

Happy Happy Happy

I guess I am just beginning to realize the magnitude that Duck Dynasty is having on our society. I wonder if it is by chance that their show comes on Wednesday night (church night for many) with plenty of time for church goers to return home to catch it. Yesterday, when I returned home from work, my husband shared a video of Phil Robertson speaking out on abortion (see below). It is not his complete speech, but a shortened version. You can catch the complete series at the Berean Bible Church. There are 13 videos and I plan to watch more of them. I knew that he goes has speaking engagements around the country, but have not actually heard him live. They have a huge following on Facebook, each Robertson having their own page. If you are moved by Phil's speech below, consider following and/or liking the Facebook group called a Voice for Hope in support of Pro-Life. I am with him, we need more George Washingtons, Thomas Jeffersons, Andrew Jacksons, etc. People who stand up for what's right... according to the Bible's standards! Hurray for the Robertson Clan! Bring it on! Keep our society Happy, Happy, Happy.

Monday, July 29, 2013

The Definition of Ironic

The Definition of Ironic: This picture is all you need to get you to see the irony! Came across my email, and I just had to share with my readers. How does this make you feel?



Friday, July 26, 2013

Wednesday Church Scare

During our Wednesday night ladies bible class, my cell phone rang during our prayer time. I saw that it was my daughter as I fumbled to quickly shut if off. Thinking she had forgotten it was church night, I focused once again on the lesson that was being presented. We were discussing about Cardboard testimonies that can be searched on YouTube. I had not heard of them and was listening intently when the second call came through. This time I grabbed it knowing that it must be important for her to call back so quickly. Stepping out, I realized that it was an emergency from a text asking us to meet at the hospital and naming my 3 year old grandson. Of course, you immediately start thinking of all the worst things that could have happened. I quickly searched out my husband in his men's class and said let's go, we have to meet Aimee at the hospital! At that point, we did not even know which hospital. Prayers were going up in the ladies bible class that I left and I fumbled with my phone to gather more details. She explained that she thought Ethan broke his arm. My husband and I felt a quick relief, thinking that we can handle a broken bone! After spending a short time at Baptist hospital, we discovered about Nurse Maid elbow. Something that is common, but I have never experienced it. It was a dislocated elbow from the 5 year old sister pulling the 3 year old up the slide. The care at the hospital was excellent and Ethan left there saying, "I like this place!" We all laughed thinking what a miracle we saw comparing his arrival to his departure. Thank God for keeping him safe!
Parents, here are things that can cause Nurse Maid Elbow:
  • Pulling a child up by the hands
  • Swinging a toddler by the arms
  • Jerking a child's arm
  • Breaking a fall with the arm
  • Rolling over in an awkward way

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Bird Nerd

 Ok, I admit that I turned into a bird nerd in my later years. I have developed joy in attracting birds in my backyard. I have two bird baths and used to have bird feeders in the front and back yard, until it attracted unwanted critters. Now I just view them in the back. Last Sunday at church, one of our dear members read this story before we partook of the Lord's Supper. Now, I will think of our glorious Savior each time I see a bird flying free and think about the price he paid for my sins.
Hope you enjoy the story too!


Saturday, July 13, 2013

Freedom is Not Free

Freedom comes with a price. Great time to listen to Ronald Reagan's awesome speech for his inaugural address in 1981. We must not forget the ones who are fighting for this! Heard on  television this morning how the actor, Max Martini is getting support to shoot a movie where 50% of the profits support our veterans. To support Max, you can go to   GoFundMe.com for his project called "Will Gardner". I enjoy reading about the positive roles that Hollywood actors share. You can follow him on Twitter @maxifrage or read his blog here for facts on the veterans struggle once they return home. Hurray Max Martini! You are making a difference!

Sunday, June 30, 2013

Power of God through the Internet

It is Sunday, the Lord's day and I am spending it at home as I recuperate from a successful ear surgery. I am giving God the glory and thanks for it. Today, I experienced what I call a "God wink" in that a small event happened that I think is only by God. He somehow made my two worlds come together and prove how HE is in control of ALL things and at ALL times. As you know, I am passionate about God, my family, and LOVE technology. In this God Tube video that came to me, I can prove how powerful the Internet is and hope that this is a little proof what God can do through technology. I don't know the details of how these three young men practiced or decided on their audition song, but one thing's for sure: God brought them together and I hope they bring HIM the glory. May you experience the same feelings when you watch this.



3 Young Strangers Recently Met Online - And When They Sing It Sounds Like Heaven! from alegator21 on GodTube.

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

God Winks

I went on Amazon and looked up books about "God Winks". I had watched a TV program with Squire Rushnell, the author, and made it a goal to read his book. He has more than one book written now, and I plan to read one this summer. In fact, I so believe that when we become more aware of things and understand that God has a hand in making each event occur in our lives, we become more closer to him. In fact, I just experienced my own God wink tonight. I've been thinking about the life and how we get so caught up in the "busy"ness of it, that we miss out on the little things that mean so much. I have been wanting to simplify my life and get back to the basics, if you say. I read a devotional about "Stopping and smelling the roses" before life passes you by. Well, the God wink occurred when a friend sent me this video to watch. It is called "Life is like Coffee". It is worth the few minutes, I promise, that it takes to watch. This is one I want to keep and re-watch when things get too hectic, and I lose sight of the important things in life. I want to choose the plain and simple!
http://www.flickspire.com/_videos/flash/LILC/LILC.swf

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Stop the Internet Tax

I normally don't cross post, but I have put this on both of my blogs, because it will be so sad if this passes. The Internet has always been open and available for businesses to advertise and market themselves. All good things must end? All for the mighty $buck$...



STOP THE INTERNET TAX
On Thursday, the Senate voted to proceed to the Internet sales tax bill. Unfortunately, the Senate Majority Leader scheduled the vote while Sen. Cruz was in Texas attending the memorial service for the West explosion. Had Sen. Cruz been present, he would have emphatically voted against this legislation because he believes the Internet should remain a haven for entrepreneurial growth. We should protect and cherish the freedom of the Internet -- not pass a massive new Internet sales tax that would impose billions of dollars of new taxes on America's small businesses.
In addition to being bad policy, Sen. Cruz also opposes the way this legislation has been pushed through the Senate -- skipping the committee process in an attempt to stifle debate. That is why Sen. Cruz joined a bipartisan coalition of senators urging Sen. Harry Reid to allow for a thorough vetting of the bill through regular order.

Saturday, April 27, 2013

Enjoy the Ride

A friend from church sent this to me today. Besides truly enjoying the music, it really makes you stop and think about your life, purpose, and how we should enjoy each moment in life. Hope you take the time to watch this.

http://www.lshs64.com/enjoytheride.html

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Freedom Minute

I'd like to take a poll of the many US citizens who are alive today because they protected themselves with their right to keep and bear arms.

Monday, April 22, 2013

Do You Know Him?

One of our church members shared this during worship service Sunday.  He read the script which flowed like prose or poetry. It is actually a sermon from the late S.M. Lockridge from San Diego, California in 1976. As you read it, you will see how he proclaims the greatness of our God and King. At the end of the post, I have included a YouTube version that has 2 million + views.

That’s My King
The Bible says
He’s the King of the Jews
He’s the King of Israel
He’s the King of Righteousness
He’s the King of the Ages
He’s the King of Heaven
He’s the King of Glory
He’s the King of Kings
and He is the Lord of Lords
Now that’s my King!
David says
The Heavens declare the glory of God
And the firmament showeth His handiwork
No means of measure can define His limitless love
No far seeing telescope can bring into visibility the coastline of His shoreless supply
No barriers can hinder Him from pouring out His blessing

Monday, April 15, 2013

ISTE and CoSN ask you to sign White House Petition to Invest in School Broadband Today!


Sign ISTE’s White House Petition to Invest in School Broadband Today!
We are petitioning the Obama administration to invest in classroom broadband
connectivity to ensure that all students are ready for college and 21st century careers. 
Please take just a few moments to sign this vital petition. Then, share this link with at
least six friends to ensure we garner as many signatures as possible.  Together, our
voices will carry! 
This petition asks the Obama Administration to:
Invest in classroom broadband connectivity to ensure that all students are
ready for college and 21st century careers.
Education, like every sector in America, is undergoing a digital transformation.
As students and educators embrace personalized instruction, online and mobile learning,
adaptive assessments and data-driven decision making, and develop critical thinking,
collaboration, communication and digital citizenship skills, demands on school networks
will continue to skyrocket. Unfortunately, unlike the business and healthcare sectors,
K–12 investment in school broadband infrastructure has lagged. Even the successful
E-Rate program cannot meet rapidly escalating school needs for increased bandwidth.
The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) recognizes that we as
a nation must invest in school broadband connectivity to ensure our students graduate
equipped for success. Act now!


Thursday, April 11, 2013

Anticipation

Not sure what is happening with the Southeast Texas weather lately, but the March winds have arrived late...in April! Today was super windy! While leaving in the mornings for work, I have been eagerly waiting for my Amarylis to bloom. I have taken them out of their pots and planted them. They are so happy. Here's the snapshot I took today. Can't wait to share the full bloom soon!

Saturday, March 9, 2013

Spring Time is Here!

 SPRING FORWARD tonight! Looking forward to my spring break, even though I'll be losing one hour because of daylight savings time. Hope everyone is enjoying the warm weather, butterflies, and blooms. Spring is my favorite season.

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Helping Teachers Overcome Obstacles and Focus on Learning - 30 Questions For Teacher Reflection

Edunators - Helping Teachers Overcome Obstacles and Focus on Learning - 30 Questions For Teacher Reflection  by Mark Clements  (permission given to share)

Great article for self-reflection...it has 30 questions that you can ask to help you evaluate your teaching and more.


Modeling Reflection – Questions to Ask With Students
1.Was this activity successful….why or why not?
2.If we do this again, what can I do differently to help you learn more?
3.Did this activity help you learn more than others we’ve done? Why?

Monday, February 11, 2013

Happy Valentine's Day


Free Valentine

Print your own valentines. You have a choice of 4 different designs. Oh BTW...


Monday, January 28, 2013

Using Google slides offline

Create, edit and present with Google Slides offline | Google Drive Blog
I knew we could sync our documents, but now they have presentations able to sync and work offline. Spreadsheets will be next. This is a good benefit...

He is Everywhere!

I was sent this video by a friend and took the time to view it. The end of the video is what is amazing, and verifies that God is in control. He can use the righteous and the unrighteous to get his message across. Hope you take the time to see his work in action.



Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Welcome 2013!


Wow, it's now 2013! Hope everyone has committed to some awesome goals for the New Year. I have several that I will accomplish this year. One is to be more consistent in posting to my blogs. In fact, this is my first attempt to take care of that resolution. I wanted to share a couple of my goals that I hope will bring me joy and improve my life. You know when you post your intentions on the web, it makes you more accountable, so here goes.

1. I was told about the "lpm" (Living Proof Ministries) blog from a teacher in Bridge City. This is the second year for the event for anyone who would like to jump on board and commit to memorizing 2 scriptures of your choice per month. You can read about the details and how you can register with your commitment at the LPM blog. Be sure to follow the instructions with your scripture's book, chapter, & verse.

2. Today, I read about my next opportunity to improve my tech skills by committing to learn 10 new tools in 2013. It's called "Take the 10 Tools Challenge" from Jane Hart's blog called "Learning in the Social Workplace." Part of the requirement is to make a monthly post on a blog about your experiences with the new tool. (This will definitely help improve my blog habit) I hope to have other LCM teachers and staff join me in this challenge for 2013. I plan to post on  this blog for those who want to make sure I achieve it by 2014.

3. I will not go into detail on my personal goals to eat healthy and exercise more. This, I'm sure is the most popular New Year's Resolutions every year and probably the one that is not fulfilled.