spiritual Sundays

There is no place so desolate that you cannot find ME there. When Hagar fled from her mistress, Sarah, into the wilderness, she thought she was utterly alone and forsaken. But Hagar encountered ME in that desolate place. There she addressed ME as the Living ONE who sees me. Through that encounter with MY PRESENCE, she gained courage to return to her mistress.

No set of circumstances could ever isolate you from MY loving PRESENCE. Not only do I see you always; I see you as a redeemed saint, gloriously radiant in MY righteousness. That is why I take great delight in you and rejoice over you with singing!

Gen 16:7-14 (amp) Psalm 139:7-10; Zephaniah 3:17
Jesus Calling

Thankyou Charlotte and Ginger for hosting Spiritual Sundays


May each of you be blessed on this Sunday

Book Review

This was my first introduction to this Best Selling Author and Women of Faith Speaker, Sheila Walsh and I have to say....I like her, I really like her.

Sheila's Book "Let Go" came at a very appropriate time in my life, but isn't that the way the Lord works if we allow HIM to and are aware of His voice speaking to us. This book is about women living free of the burdens we all know and experience at different times in our lives. Sheila knows there are times that as women we may feel "overworked, overcommitted, overtired or underappreciated." What do you do when you are walking through those times? Who do you turn to? Who do you seek assistance from or whose voice do you long to hear?

In this book "Let Go," Sheila shares topics ranging from deliverance, Gods grace, judgement from others and judging ourselves to letting go of our past ~ bitterness, unforgiveness, and making peace with those things that have happened in our lives so that we can live the life we are called to. Often times when dealing with these issues we "feel" we are in a dry desert and it is then that temptation comes a knocking. Her chapter on dealing with temptation is excellent and even her view of crying out for a miracle (which I have been guilty of alot lately) she speaks pointedly about: "Jesus knew: miracles don't change hearts. Obedience does." Sheila says:
"I don't know what situations you are facing right now, but I know that Christ our Saviour has left his footprints in the desert sand for us to follow. What Satan tempts us with is never what we are really longing for. It may appear to meet a need at the moment, but it will just take us deeper and deeper into the wilderness. Christ's steps keeps us close to the heart of God."

Sheila has given you questions at the end of each chapter along with scripture verses and even a prayer regarding each subject. As with everything what you put into it~ that~ you will get out of it. Spending quiet time in the presence of the LORD and searching to get to the root of these questions can be very powerful and truly you can find yourself free of so many of these burdens along with the tools to keep you from becoming overburdened the next time they come your way.

I recommend this book to any woman young or old or for any group of women who might be looking for something during the interim time when your bible study might be on break!

Awards

I have been blessed with two awards that are very special to me

This one came from Christy Rose



It is the Loyal Friend and visitor award. This is the exact thing I have experienced from all of you this week especially. While I haven't been visiting everyone as much this week you all have remained to come here and share your love, prayers, encouragement and have been completely LOYAL to me and I am so grateful and humbled! If you all don't know Christy Rose please go visit her here YOU WILL LOVE HER and learn so much from her. She is an amazing mother and wife and has a gift of teaching no matter the subject! Thankyou Christy! Your loyalty and friendship is such a gift.

This award came from Andrea at Arise 2 Write




If you know Andrea you know what a mighty prayer warrior she is. And if ANYONE is in need of being prayed for ~ you will most likely find out from Andrea. She has such a heart for intereceding for people in need and the Lord uses her in a mighty way! She just doesn't share the needs, she also contacts Edie and helps in getting those prayer buttons you see. Edie does the work and what an amazing job she does but Andrea plays just as much of a role and I know as a person who has experienced seeing the power of prayer by so many that I don't even know It is truly inspiring!

Honestly, I am constantly inspired by each of you, your loyalty of those who follow me, those who just leave loving or encouraging comments so I am offering these awards to all of you .....seriously if you haven't received them please post them and receive them in love! One other thing I would like to point out. The most inspiring award was made by Kats (heart2heart) daughter. Isn't that awesome! What a sweet and special award to receive!!

Blessings to all of you and Happy Friday everyone!

thankful Thursday

It is Thursday again...wow! Iris has many joining her today on this day in which we offer our thanks so please go see others grateful hearts and join in if you want!

Today I am thankful to say....

The are allowing my Dad to go home!!! He is going home on Oxygen but it is only when he is up and around. His spirits are great as usual and he is proven to be a fighter no matter what comes his way! This I am so thankful for!

I am thankful to be returning to Florida even for a week! and this time my brother will be joining me the latter part of the week! wahoo!

I am thankful for the gift of friendship! I have been blessed with the love of my friends here at home and by so many of you in the blog world! I see the Lord in each and everyone of you and it humbles me and fills me with so much LOVE!!

I am thankful for the gift of a handwritten letter.....how many times do we make the daily walk to the mailbox and pull out nothing but ads, bills, and yet when you see a special stamp and stickers :) along with your name handwritten you know you what a joy that can bring! Inside I received a note from my dear friend Kat at HEART2HEART. She sent such encouragement and love and it just made my day!! Thankyou Kat

I am so thankful that my kids are adjusting to school so wonderfully. They have great teachers this year and truly are enjoying school so far!!

and to the Lord..... I am so thankful for HIS daily and sometimes hourly touch, word, peace and overall assurance that HE is with me, strengthening me and allowing my honest and transparent worries, fear and concern over these past few days to just be covered by HIS grace and mercy. He is Faithful and JUST. HE is LOVE. HE is my STRONG TOWER and knows that while I may allow these things to enter my mind or consume my thoughts at times HE waits for me to crawl into HIS lap, HE longs to bring me security and hope and for me to understand that NO MATTER WHAT .....HE IS WITH ME.

pondering thoughts

In todays society or what the Christian circles call us.....the Western world who doesn't see or experience Gods Miracles in a powerful way like those in foreign countries ... I just want to thank the Lord for the Miracle that HE has given us in my Dad still being here. To me ~ clearly ~ to have doctors at the Mayo Clinic scratching their heads and saying "you are lucky to be alive and we aren't sure how that is in your condition" is nothing short of the LORD ALMIGHTY performing a miracle!

I wanted to share how the procedure went and have been waiting for some answers as well but as you know sometimes in situations such as these we don't always get the answers right away.

Yesterday the procedure went well. Dad was even asking for food afterward so that is a great sign. I spoke to him last night and other than sounding exhausted his spirits were good and he was greatly encouraged. He did share with me that this procedure while one doctor has such positive things to say there are still others that shared we are still in serious condition and there is no guarantee. So I just have to pray and ask for these remaining clots to dissolve and call upon the name of the Lord for that peace that passes all understanding and to REST and KNOW, that HE is in control (no matter the outcome!) Not being there to ask the questions or to truly grasp the way the doctors are collaborating in regards to my dad and his situation is frustrating to me. I have read alot about pulmonary embolism and also heard the comments from my dear friend Rosel and have taken these things to the Lord. My husband and I are seeking HIS will and HIS wisdom in our decisions.

In asking my stepmom about returning she doesn't feel it necessary at this time while dad is still in the hospital but does feel it would be a good idea upon his release so that he won't be at home alone if she has to go to work or just tend to the everyday things of life. My husband has alot of traveling to do this month so I need to be here and also have the scheduled surgery on my shoulder but these things are secondary when it comes to my dad and I will quickly and without question reschedule that if necessary. I guess, all in all, I just want to be honest with myself about Dads situation and yet not react out of fear but do what is right for everyone! I just smile knowing the Lord knows my heart and if I could only hear him say audibly what HE wants me to do. I am so thankful that I have such a supportive husband and praying friends that will stand in the gap for my dad and our family in this time of waiting and for the gift of Faith. It is in times such as these that we see the fruit of that gift come into play. It is in these times that the Lord takes us deeper into HIM, our trust and assurance no matter what life brings us can be in people or in can be in the Lord.....I choose to place my trust in the Lord and know that this road will lead me closer to HIM the author and finisher of my Faith.


IN HIM

God is Faithful

This is an update to the post below:

They will be performing a procedure on my dad where they insert a filter into his groin to keep the clots that are in his leg from going any further up. The Dr.'s name is Waltzer and my Dad likes him quite well. He answered all of his questions and seems to be very hopeful. Dr. Waltzer said that in 85% of the cases it is effective and the clots dissolve.

They told my dad and Barb that it is a miracle that my Dad is alive with the number of clots he has in his legs and the size of the clots in his lungs. AN ABSOLUTE MIRACLE!!! PRAISE THE LORD!!!

This procedure will be done in a couple of hours. I know they will also be looking into changing his chemo medicine since they believe this may be the cause of the clotting.

I am praising the Lord and thanking each of you for your prayers, love and concern!

Update

First, I must say thankyou for to outpouring of love and prayers.

My Dad was admitted into ICU @ the Mayo Clinic, early last evening because as the day progressed he felt worse and put up no fight whatsoever to go to the emergency room. Upon arriving he was in severe pain, very labored breathing and moaning and nauseous. They took his pulse which was 120 (wayyyy too high) and his oxygen saturation was only 86 (wayyy too low). So they immediately put him on oxygen and began iv fluids, and then started running tests.

Here is what I know so far.....

A CT scan revealed:
He is in serious condition due to 2 very large blood clots in his lungs (pulmonary embolism) At the present time the only thing they can do is administer medication so that they (clots) will dissolve. The possiblities of them traveling to the heart and erupting are what puts him in serious condition and causing great concern. The doctors this morning will discuss the possiblity of them doing a procedure to put an umbrella in his legs to prevent further clots which apperently is common once these start to form. The doctor just notified my stepmom that his clot is exceptionally large and may not dissolve and may leave a scar but I am not sure what all of this means but they are doing a sonogram on his legs to see if they will put the umbrella in his stomach or the legs. I hope I am not confusing you, I am just sharing as I get information in. She also shared that my Dad may not come off of the oxygen again. All of this is breaking my heart. My mind goes to Exodus 14:14 "The Lord will fight for you, you need only be still."

I am asking for believing Doctors and that they would seek the Lord for what to do for my Dad. I am asking for nurses who know the Great Physician and Jesus as their Savior and would share Him and HIS love with my Dad and Barbie. (Nurses like Rosel and Micey.) I am praying for this exceptionally large clot to dissipate without scar tissue and that there would be no need for oxygen. Wisdom to all and healing to go forth. Salvation.

My Dad is still being strong and fighting this with amazing strength. He is so precious.

The good part is that my dad is receiving fluids and pain meds through the IV along with nutrition so he is feeling better and sleeping which is a gift at this point.

Will continue to update as I know more...thankyou all for your continued prayers

Prayer needed

I am coming to my mighty prayer warriors asking for prayer today for Dad and my stepmom (Barbie). Here is an update.

Dad has his final radiation treatment on Friday and his last chemo for this round last Wednesday. During chemo this time they had to give him fluids for the first time ever. This means he is not drinking enough on his own and mostly this is due to the pain he experiences in his throat. Eating and drinking have become quite the challenge. He has lost 12 lbs in 15 days and that is as of last week so I know the number is higher. He didn't work last week except a few bits here and there from home because he mostly slept. I talked to him and he says other than feeling tired he feels pretty good. (putting on the good front for me) The doctors told him it will probably take 4-6 weeks to gain his strength back.

He will have a brain scan Sept 10 to see if the radiation that was done in the beginning got those 3 spots on his brain!
He will have another round of chemo Sept 11 which will be 5 hours long instead of 3. They will administer more chemo meds and more of the other now that he is no longer taking radiation. Sometime in October he will have a scan on his chest to see how the tumor is reacting to the treatments.

I received a text message this morning from my stepmom asking for prayer. My dad woke up having a HORRIBLE coughing spell, breaking out into a sweat and was in alot of pain along with just being completely exhausted. I have been at the feet of Jesus this morning and feel his LOVE, PEACE, and STRENGTH and am asking you all to lift up my Dad and my stepmom as well.


Philippians 1:5-7 (The Message)

A Love That Will Grow

Every time you cross my mind, I break out in exclamations of thanks to God. Each exclamation is a trigger to prayer. I find myself praying for you with a glad heart. I am so pleased that you have continued on in this with us, believing and proclaiming God's Message, from the day you heard it right up to the present. There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.
It's not at all fanciful for me to think this way about you. My prayers and hopes have deep roots in reality. You have, after all, stuck with me all the way from the time I was thrown in jail, put on trial, and came out of it in one piece. All along you have experienced with me the most generous help from God. He knows how much I love and miss you these days. Sometimes I think I feel as strongly about you as Christ does!

I have been a part of Lisa Shaws "ladies on a mission" and she had this verse for us to read today and as I typed this out asking for you all to pray, I immediately thought of you all, along with the women in this group. It means so much to know that others are praying for my Dad. In church you often hear, "You may be the only representative of Christ others see," or" you may be the only person that is praying for this family member" (if they are not believers) so I humbly thank each of you the lifting dad & Barb to our Heavenly Father, the Great Physician and asking for Salvation, Peace, Healing and relief in the pain so that he can eat and drink.


In HIM

Spiritual Sundays

Here is one of my favorite songs by Matt Gilman and Cory Asbury. They are prophetic worshipers from IHOP (international House of Prayer) in Kansas City. Enjoy......



for other Spiritual Sunday posts please go visit Charlotte and Ginger here

Friday Funnies

OK you know I told you all Brian took Jantzen on his "adolescent trip" this past weekend. They had alot of really good discussion and some much needed fun.

When Jantzen immediately got out of the truck I gave him a big hug and said How are YOU???? HE looked at me with this look and said "ALOT SMARTER" LOL

When I took Jen we had a picture made for a memory of out time together ~ Here is that pic from back in 04'




Now here is the one that Brian and Jantz took together to remember this time in their lives


Have Mercy!!

For other Friday Funnies go here
Happy Friday everyone!

Thankful Thursday

I am joining Iris and a thankful bunch of gals on this Thursday. We have so much to be thankful for and God loves a thankful heart. I am thankful for much today.....

* After a rough day at chemo yesterday and finding out my Dad has lost even more weight (12lbs just since I left) and having to have fluids intraveneously for the first time during chemo, he had a much better evening and was able to eat some soup. Again my opinion is the dehydration issue and am praying that he too will see AND recognize this to be a serious issue. He is pretty much bed-ridden and I found out the doctor has asked that he at least get up and make the long journey out to his mail box at least once daily but preferably twice. We will see.

* I am so thankful for my sweet and kind husband. I had alot of pain yesterday in my shoulder and have had alot going on since I have been home. (I did schedule surgery for Sept 18) When he got home from his long day at work he noticed my pain and went and ran a hot bath for me and made sure I was taken care of....what a gift he is to me.....Thankyou LORD!

* We spent some time with the kids in Colossians 3 last night. Each reading a portion sharing what it meant to them specifically and then moving on to the next. Funny how the LORD orchestrated who read what :) (my husband read the part about not embittering your children or they will be discouraged, Jen read about anger, I read about clothing myself with kindness, compassion etc) because I had spent time earlier in the day reading this and repenting and felt the Lord prompting me to share this with the kids and HE sooo anointed this time together! Thankyou Father!

* I am sooo thankful the kids had a great first day. Jantzen was thrilled with his teachers and although he didn't get to lunch until 1....yes they arrive at 7:30 and normal lunch was at 12:10 it is just a part of the first day adjustments and praying today is much better. He told me he couldn't wait to go back ....oh ya KIM, he didn't get his locker open for a while either but finally it worked ....PHEW! :) Jen had a good day! Math has always been her weakest subject but this years teacher is straight from JESUS. doesn't like giving homework ~ they work together in class and she give quizzes not tests..." can I get a HALLELUAH!"

* I am also thankful for Bailey the horse. He was able to roam the pasture in total freedom and bliss Tuesday. He is such a fighter and I just praise God for helping him and allowing him to be ok!

LOVE AND BLESSINGS TO YOU ALL......I am thankful for each and everyone!

1st day of School

I truly can't believe it......summer is gone and school has begun.

Jenna is a Junior this year. She was up and ready to go EARLY. A big group of friends met for donuts so when I asked for the traditional "first day picture" she was rushing me to say the least ;)



Notice, she has her back pack on, IPOD in one ear, keys are in her hand along with her Training clothes so she is prepared for the day.

Jantzen is in the 6th grade. This is the first year that all of the elementaries (total of 8) come together and go the 6th grade center. It will be quite a change and he definately had those 1st day butterflies.



I am so anxious to hear how their day went!

August 18,2009

August 18, 2009
For Today...

Outside my window... RAINING :) & much cooler HALLELUAH

I am thinking...about my Dad, school starting, and so many who are struggling right now

I am thankful for... a home filled with Love, Friendship, and Laughter. One final day before school starts. The Strength the Lord is giving me each day in regards to my Dad.

From the kitchen...salads, I am going to make fish tacos here for the first time (wish me luck), brisket, chicken

I am wearing... Jeans, meet the rams tshirt and a rain jacket to go out today.

I am reading... When Jesus speaks to your Sorrow by Nancy Guthrie, Take 2 by Karen Kingsbury, The Principle of the Path, and The Noticer

I am hoping...and trusting that all that we have been praying for in blogland feel the Presence of God falling on them each and everyone.

I am praying.. for my Dad, for Alleluiahbelle & Ron, Kats Uncle who just passed away and her mother, All of those on Beth's page and Andreas page, Rosel & Donna @ Seaglass, Lisa and her 7day Lay it down girls, and for all of the kids starting school

Around the house...getting things ready for school and sooo not ready for my kids to go back!!!

One of my favorite things...seeing my precious grandaughter, she is just soo cute and funny

A few plans for the rest of the week... going to get school clothes, taking my son to get a haircut.....oh my!! and going to pray over their schools tonight. Meeting with some friends in the morning to have coffee and catch up :)

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you.
.


Isnt she silly.....clearly I didn't know what she was doing or I would have been cracking up!!

Love and Blessings to you all today!

A day at the Movies, a win, and a prayer

After I had seen a couple of friends post about this movie plus my mom telling me how good it was, I asked my DH to take me to see this. I also wanted to see the Time Travelers Wife as well, so we decided to make a day of it. I really liked the Time travelers Wife but I must say I have been in a romantic gushy mood since I have been home with my honey! Upon reading about this movie on FocusontheFamily.com I knew it wasn't a movie that I wanted to take our teenage daughter along with her boyfriend to see, so, we invited them to go with us to see Julia & Julie. My daughter was bummed but it is one I will see with her on a girls day :) It truly is PG13

On Julia & Julie, I must say, I agree .....any and all bloggers must see this movie! We can so relate! Being somewhat of a new blogger myself I saw the transformation in Julie that I have experienced. Such as....the excitement of our first comment, our obsession, our realization that we can, and do at times, put this blogging above our families and balancing that out in time, and even the point in which she is told by her oh so sweet hubby "DO NOT BLOG ABOUT THIS!" hee hee! Yep I have experienced each and every one of these! This movie is wonderful....I laughed, I cried, I learned alot about Julia and didn't know this was a true story even about Julie! I love the wonderful portrayal of marriage in this movie because their husbands were supportive and they communicated, loved, worked hard TOGETHER no matter what life threw at them and they believed in each other! It just made me love and appreciate the relationship I have with my husband because he is sooo like the men in this movie! I think too after seeing this movie he understands why I love blogging so much and here is just why I say this:

When I opened my computer this morning I went to Incourage to read their post for the day and they happened to be announcing the winners of their Limited Edition Incourage tshirt. Out of 250 "what incourages you" posts I was one of the lucky random chosen WINNERS!!! I called my husband and told him and he was earnestly excited with and for me! He is so precious!
This is Holley with DaySpring sporting modeling this tshirt! She is a sweet lady as are all the women involved in this website!



On a side note I have to ask for prayer for my Dad today. This has been a hard weekend and today he actually cancelled all clients and for the first time is NOT going to work because he is just tooo exhausted. He is sleeping most of the time and I found out yesterday that most food has become to painful to eat. He was able to eat a shake yesterday but that is it. Smoothies have become to painful due to the acid from the fruit. I know the Great Physician is at work and I just ask that you all would come in agreement with me for the Lord to strengthen Dad, mininstering to HIM and as HE draws him near that my Dad would long to know and accept JESUS! I love each of you and thankyou as you come before the Lord on my Dads behalf, it humbles me so!

Love and blessings to you all!

Spiritual Sundays

I am reading Hearing Jesus Speak into your Sorrow by Nancy Guthrie. This is from the chapter Hear Jesus Speak of His healing for YOU.

I am Jehovah=Rophi, the Lord who heals. Healing is not just something that I do; it is my very nature, reflected in my name. I am the source and sustainer of life itself. So in your sickness, look to me. I want to heal you.

And I mean really heal you-not just heal your body in a temporary way, but heal your spirit, soul and body in a pervasive and permanent way. I want to bring you to the place of complete wholeness I created you for. My healing work has already begun in your life--it began when I first drew you to myself. The deeper you go in me and the longer you abide in me, the more healing you will experience.

It is my healing touch that soothes your ailing body, your aching heart, your troubled mind, and your weary soul. It is my touch that heals you from the self-absorption that consumes you, the apathy toward me that depletes you, the lust that brings you shame and regret, the materialism that leaves you unsatisfied, the unforgiveness that isolates you from others- all the sin that has made your soul so sick.

I know it is never comfortable when my Spirit shows you the areas of your life the are offensive to me. I'm not trying to hurt you by calling attention to your sin; I'm helping you. Won't you let me love you in this way? Just turn toward me and begin to confess those sins rather than ignoring them or trying to hide them. I wont turn away from you. I will cleanse you.

This repentance Im calling you to is not a one time things. Im asking you to make it your way of life. As you live in brokenness before me, I will continue to show you the things in your life that keep you from closer fellowship with me--not to condemn you or discourage you, but to draw you into the full and free life I have for you.

On the cross I dealt decisively with your deepest and most destructive disease, and even now you are being healed by my wounds. There I destroyed the power of sin to rule your life and determine your destiny.

I am not unmoved by the pain in your life. As you lay it before me and invite me into it, you will find me moving toward you bringing you peace.

adapted from Exodus 15:26, Acts 17:25, Heb 1:3, Rom 6:13, John 15:4 NKJV Luke 6:19, Luke 5:31-32 Mathew 13:15, 1 JOHN 1:9, Eph 5:26 Phil 1:6 John 16:8 Col 3:5 1 Pet 2:24

for other posts go here

Note from Dad

I have to be honest. I was broken hearted when I read this weeks note! I did NOT want to post it and I think you all will understand why. Satan counterfeits everything from Jesus. A sermon, power, a book. Gods power is available to all of us Eph 6:10 says be strong in HIM and in His mighty power. Jesus teaches the true sermon on the mount in Mathew 5,6, and 7 in HIS WORD. I shared with my dad when I spoke to him on Friday that sooo many people had prayed for him on Thursday and I believe that is why he felt so much better on Friday. (This was before he ever wrote this note)

As I prayed, cried out to the Lord asking for the deceit to be revealed and Truth to be received by my dad, it was in that time that I knew I should ask you all to come in agreement with me. I read a story posted on the InCourage website written by SarahMae about her mother who was an alcoholic and only had 2 months to live. She heard the voice of God clearly telling her to put down her Vodka which she did and has since surpassed her doctors diagnosis and 10 months later is still here and living for HIM! It gave me great hope and has encouraged me to continue to believe that my dad can also accept Jesus! His gift of Salvation, His Forgiveness and life Everlasting!

My dad knows that I post his notes but he does not read my blog. I am not sure why. He has seen his prayer button and I would read comments to him from each of you which he appreciates and is very humbled by but for whatever reason he doesn't read my blog. Anyway ~ here is his note.

Doug Woods: "The Sermon on the Mount" by Emmet Fox

Doug's Notes|Notes about Doug|Doug's Profile
"The Sermon on the Mount" by Emmet FoxShare
Yesterday at 10:07pm
I’ve been out of pocket this week – mostly because of fatigue. I couldn’t even muster the energy to get on Facebook. I think the accumulated radiation treatments took their toll on my energy. I worked each day, but then I spent the evenings resting and trying to get my energy back. My best day was today – after yesterday’s chemotherapy treatment. I felt the best I’ve felt all week.

Fortunately, yesterday’s chemotherapy treatment went without a hitch again. I did react to the sedative they gave me. It was the first time the sedative had an effect on me. The way I knew things weren’t going well was when it took me an hour to write a 4-line email to my assistant. I couldn’t get my fingers to type correctly and I kept starting over and making errors. After I finished that one email I shut my laptop down and didn’t work anymore.

This week I finished 5 more radiation treatments (bringing the total to 23 of the planned 28) and another chemotherapy treatment (for a total of 5 of the planned 8). I will have my next chemotherapy treatment this coming Wednesday and my final radiation treatment will be on Friday. After this week’s chemotherapy treatment, I will have two more – each three weeks apart.

Besides fatigue, my throat is still sore from the radiation and I still have a cough. For my throat, I am taking some medication before I eat. It helps. For the cough, I take some medication when I go to bed. At least it allows me to get some sleep.

Barbie and I made some progress on preparing for the EMDR but we didn’t get started on the actual process. Hopefully, we will do something this weekend. I am very anxious to start as I feel there are some big rewards that will come from the going through the process.

-----------------------

Personally, one of the most important books I think I ever read is a book by Dr. Emmet Fox entitled “The Sermon on the Mount”. I read this book about five times during my second year of sobriety. It had a profound impact on my life and how I viewed and dealt with things. Dr. Fox’s book was very influential in formulating many of my views. I picked it up again this week and began to read it again.

Just to sidetrack a minute…I think that the period around the mid-1930s was a remarkable period. There is so much correlation among the great thinkers of that period. Some of the people who lived at that time were Dr. Fox, Carl Jung, Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob (AA’s co-founders). One thing I think is remarkable is that they all had a hand in the formation of AA and in a couple of cases they did not know their actions contributed to the formation of the organization.

Back to “The Sermon on the Mount”: The following statement by Dr. Fox is one of the transforming statements that had an impact on me. Dr Fox wrote: There is “a source of universal power that is rightfully yours. ‘This Power’ is the real source of all things that exist. It needs only to flow into your being and transform itself into health, into true prosperity, into inspiration, or into anything else you may be needing. The Power is there. It is present everywhere. It belongs to nobody in particular because it belongs to all. It is waiting at all times for men and women to call it into use – not merely in crisis, but in every problem however small every day of your life.”

Dr Fox continues: “The fact that most people do not suspect the existence of the Power does not change the fact that it is there.”

It was the idea that this Power was available to me (and everyone else) that opened my eyes to the possibility that I could open myself and let It transform me. All I had to do was to “seek systematically to destroy in myself everything which I knew should not be there, things such as selfishness, pride, vanity, sensuality, self-righteousness, jealousy, self-pity, resentment, condemnation, and so forth – not feeding them or nourishing them by giving into them, but starving them to death by refusing them expression.” Obviously, I fall far short of achieving this lofty goal, but it is something I work toward each day. When I am aware of one of these defects, I try to not give into it and by doing so I grow.

This approach applies to how I deal with this cancer. I don’t fall into self-pity – nor do I give into fear. I have no resentments about this disease. I know the Power is available to me and I am trying to let it transform me into health, true prosperity, and anything else the Power thinks I need. I have come to trust this Power and let It work in my life in any way It thinks best. I expect to continue this approach and attitude as I deal with this tumor.
Doug Woods

Please join me in praying for the TRUTH to be revealed to my Dad. JESUS the one and only is the teacher of all of these things and the giver of life, the healer. He alone will show us how to live, renew our minds, and how to die to our flesh by giving us HIS nature. It is in HIm that we grow and it is in HIM that we have Power!

Love and blessings to you all

Friday Funnies

I got this in an email and knew instantly I wanted to share this as my Friday Funny this week. For other laughs go visit Kim here.


Life's Two Questions:

Should I get a dog?



~ OR ~

Should I have children?



No matter what situation Life throws at you....No matter how long and treacherous the journey may seem...
Remember there is always Light at the end of the tunnel



Have a great day and remember....always give thanks



Cats are so very dramatic ;) I love them soo!

Happy Friday Everyone!

Love and Blessings to you all!

Thankful Thursday

I have been waiting for today to share with you many reasons I am thankful today!

I am thankful that I have a husband who cares about our children and today he is taking our son away to have some quality time and have "THE TALK" I did this years ago with Jenna. We call it the "adolescent trip." James Dobson has a tape series and he covers everything....peer pressure, purity, body changes, sex and making the decision TODAY to say NO! etc. Moms take their daughters and Fathers take their sons. Go away to somewhere fun and listen to the tapes while driving and you have LOTS of discussions. I have referred back to this time with Jenna in numerous conversations still today. I Highly recommend this but the information is very direct and only you know your children and what information you want them to know.

I am thankful for the gift of friendship. Rosel made a gift for many of us. It is a gift from her heart. She is an amazing woman of God. A prayer warrior and a woman who KNOWS and SHARES the Word with all who come in contact with her. Here in blog-land or those that she meets at work or in her daily life. She a such a blessing and I have come to cherish her friendship more and more! Isn't this beautiful! I can just see and feel the Love she poured into doing this! Thankyou Rosel!



I am also thankful for Kat! She has been such an amazing friend to me. It's like we are sisters! We share a deep bond and the Lord is definately the head of our friendship. Kat had the creative idea to highlight new blogs and she chose mine to be the first one. So during the time I was traveling home she gave this award to me for being her blog of the week. She too, designed this herself! WOW .....these women are so talented! I love this woman and thankyou Kat from the bottom of my heart!




I am also thankful that in a post like this I can share a prayer request and KNOW that you all will pray fervently! That means so very much. From the day I left my dad has gone down hill. He has become extremely fatigued, has no appetite and sleeps alot. I know all of this is because of the treatments so I am not scared or panic but it just is hard to see him like that. Trust me ~ I know this could still be much worse!!! But I am just praying for his Mind. His Spirit, His appetite but still most importantly ....SALVATION.

Love and Blessings on this Thursday....I am oh so thankful for each one of you

HOME SWEET HOME

Can I just say that being home has been absolutely heavenly AND absolutely crazy at the same time? Can anyone relate? Catching up and listening to my kids share has been wonderful. I LOVE listening to my kids, being with them, laughing and being silly too. We have been doing that non-stop it seems since Sunday. Along with that we have been picking up their schedules and doing all the necessary things before school starts. Both kids are attending new schools this year(meaning moving from MidHigh to Highschool or from elementary into Junior High) so we have spent ALOT of time walking their classes making sure they have their schedules down and won't be lost on the first day! This is also the first year my son will have a locker so we "made sure" he was able to do his combination many many times. (This has seemed to be his biggest concern) It has been fun watching them get excited for the new year and seeing all of their friends and finding out if they have classes together.

Praying for what teachers they will get begins way before the next school year starts and this year the majority of the teachers are really good (thankyou LORD!). My daughter has a class with a group of kids that she is already saying "OH BOY, wonder what the Lord is going to teach me with this class." Hearing her say that made my heart fill with joy! This group of kids would not be her favorite group but she has learned over these past few years that turning away from such situations DOES NOT make them go away, they will come up somewhere else in someone else, or in some other situation, guaranteed IF you don't listen and learn to what the Lord wants you to see, to learn or to know and/or understand!

One thing we started doing a few years back is going to their schools the night before school starts and taking who-ever of their friends wants to go and allowing each one child to speak out any concerns/fears they might have regarding the schoolyear. This may be peer pressure, teachers, friendships/relationships/ purity etc. Whatever is spoken we pray against these things and cover them with Gods Word and promises asking HIM to cover and protect each one represented. We allow the Holy Spirit to bring whatever HE wants spoken to and for these kids. It has proven to be such a peace-filled thing and a foundation for the school year. Living daily for HIM and seeking HIM daily is key to making these things come to pass but knowing that a foundation has been laid has been a gift to me, and to our kids and their friends. They see their parents, and know that we earnestly care for them, and their friends and their school year, but more importantly they KNOW their Heavenly Father is with them and will walk with them each and every day. HE is there protecting them, giving them wisdom and speaking through them to other children who may or may not know HIM. It isn't just going to school to learn~ it is being a light for JESUS that really matters.

Love and blessings to all of you!

A new website

I shared with you all about my friend Jennifer and the new website she has been able to be a part of called InCourage. Well, today is the grand kick-off and they are asking for us to share what (In)courages us. I have to say, for me, I am filled with (in)couragement by so many things but today I have to say.....It is truly by the man the Lord chose and made just for me. My husband ~ Brian.

He has been an amazing support to me this summer. He has been mom, dad, housekeeper, caretaker (yes my daughter had her wisdom teeth cut out while I was away and he is THE BEST nurse!) chef, and so much more. All of this and he still went to work everyday and he has NOT COMPLAINED one bit! He has been there to listen, encourage and pray for and over me no matter what time of day or night! He has given me laughter on days that literally carried me through !! When he was able to come to Florida to spend time with my Dad he worked tirelessly on whatever my Dad needed him to do. My Dad told him

"Brian...A few days ago I told Loren how grateful I am that you are her husband and Jenna, Jantzen's & Krista's father. You are an example of what every father should be. You have a deep spiritual life, you show how much you love your children, you are a light for them to follow, and with Loren you have created a family that everyone wants to model. It has been my pleasure to know you!"

Yes, this is the man the Lord chose for me....THAT.....Incourages me! Thankyou Honey for EVERYTHING you have done, for loving and caring for me so wonderfully, for supporting me in everything I do and for being the most kind, loving and caring Father. For working so hard for all of us each and every day no matter where you are ~ at work or here at home. For being the example of Christ and ALWAYS pointing us to HIM! I love you and praise God for you every single day.

Spiritual Sundays

Ezekiel 22:30 (New International Version)

"I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none.


Do you have a friend who stands in the gap and intercedes for you or do you stand in the gap for someone during difficult times and intercede for them?

Do you know Jesus is intereceding for you?


Jesus Prays for All Believers

20"My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message

I don't know about you but It gives me so much peace knowing Jesus is interceding on my behalf and then add to that friends and fellow believers and WOW!

I know this group of bloggers and you all are one of the best armies of prayer warriors! Thanks for standing in the gap for me, for my dad, and for my family and being a living breathing example of this scripture! being DOERS of the WORD! :)

for other spiritual sunday posts go here

HAVE A BLESSED SUNDAY......I"M LEAVING ON A JET PLANE......I DON'T KNOW WHEN I'LL BE BACK AGAIN.....couldn't resist!

Dads note for this week Aug 7, 2009

I can't believe this will be my last day here. I leave Sunday morning and will arrive back home in the early afternoon. This week has flown by. My husband shared with me this past Sunday as he sat outside having some quiet time with the Lord. He said "Treasure this week with your Dad, it will be priceless. I feel it in my spirit and don't allow the enemy to take anything from the two of you. This week belongs to you and your dad forever." When he told me this of course I cried first and then as the week went by I actually experienced just as he described. The enemy did try and move in. Last night I was encouraged and prayed over by Kat and I spent some quiet time with the Lord just seeking HIS wisdom and today I have to tell you ....I was amazed at how God took this and turned everything around and brought me closer to my Dad than I think I have ever been. I had to stand up and face some issues and discuss things but IF I would have stayed in that place of worry, doubt and fear I would have probably gotten on the plane and everything would have been left unresolved. But the Lord allowed restoration and healing! I physically felt the shift in my dad, in myself and later on after taking some of these issues further ....I saw them in my stepmom as well. God gets all the glory and all the praise! God is so faithful to His word and truly HE does work good for those who love HIM and are called according to his purpose! Again I just have to thank each one of you for your prayers for my dad. This has truly been a good week again for him. I was really scared after his chemo but my dad just continues to amaze me with his fighting spirit and positive attitude. He worked all 5 days this week and actually got out and did a little yard work last night. I say..... God is good and is working, healing and restoring my dad!! It is to HIM that I give thanks, glory and honor!
I am not sure when I will return at this point but I am ever so grateful to have had this summer with my dad. To know him all over again, to restore our relationship on so many levels and to share the love of Jesus with him is the ultimate gift! You remember that "tribute" I wrote? Well, I will be reading that to my dad tomorrow with my husband and kids sharing in that experience via Skype. I am so looking forward to this!

Here is Dads note for this week.....This week‘s medical treatments were identical to last week’s. I finished 5 more radiation treatments (bringing the total to 18 of the planned 28) and another chemotherapy treatment (for a total of 4).
On Thursday, I met with my oncologist and she told me that the chemotherapy treatments will continue as long as the radiation treatments. That means that I will have 2 more chemotherapy treatments – bringing the total to 6.

Even after all of my treatments, I feel good and I still haven’t suffered any significant side-effects from the chemotherapy. The only side-effect I feel is the one I mentioned last week. My throat is sore from the radiation. I am taking some medication about 30 minutes before eating to soothe the pain. I mentioned last week that it’s a side-effect they told me would come and it has. I learned this week that the soreness will last a couple of weeks beyond the end of the radiation - so I’ll deal with it for another month and a half.

When I first learned of the tumor I began to do some research. During part of my research I read a story about a woman who was diagnosed with cancer and given six months to live. She went through the recommended treatments (chemotherapy and radiation) and did some of her own stuff. One thing she did was whenever she showered she visualized the water dissolving her tumor and washing it down the drain. She did this everyday and eleven years later she is alive and still visualizing the cancer being washed away.

I liked the idea so I created two signs that I taped to the walls of our shower. The signs read: “Dissolve IT!” The signs serve as reminders for me to stand under the hot water and have it pound directly on the location of my tumor. I visualize the tumor being dissolved by the water and running out my body into the drain. So far, I don’t know if this has had any effect, but I can visualize the water dissolving each of the growths from the main tumor into my lymph glands and I can visualize the main tumor shrinking and dissolving to where it is much smaller. I haven’t been able to completely dissolve the tumor yet, but I get closer each day.

And there are some things I am going to do beginning next week.

EMDR is a relatively new psychotherapy technique (invented in 1987) which has been very successful in helping people who suffer from trauma, anxiety, panic, post traumatic stress and other emotional problems. EMDR is considered a breakthrough therapy because of its simplicity and the fact that it can bring quick and lasting relief for most types of therapeutic problems.

I used EMDR several years ago to deal with some issues and I found it to be the most effective therapeutic technique I ever experienced.

Luckily, Barbie is trained and certified in EMDR and I asked her to work with me to use EMDR to explore this disease and to explore additional things I can do about it. We will begin the process next week.

There are several things I want to explore with EMDR. First, I’ve been told by several people that lung cancer is a manifestation of repressed grief. I don’t know if this is true or not, but I am going to explore the possibility to see if there is anything to it. If so, I want to know what I need to face and I will use EMDR to deal with it.

In addition to the grief issue, I want to know if there is anything that is holding me back from really wanting to beat this disease. I don’t think there is but I want to use EMDR to see if I am hiding something. If there is something in me that questions whether or not I can survive I need to know what it is and use EMDR to eliminate the obstacle.

Another thing I want to know is if this tumor is a part of me or if it is its own entity. This may seem like a strange question – but I feel like I may want to adjust my approach for dealing with this tumor depending on the answer to this question.

These are but a few things I want to explore. Next week, Barbie and I will begin working with EMDR and see where things go

Doug Woods


I thank each of you for your continued prayers my blessed and wonderful bloggy friends! Love to you all!!

T.G.I.F.

Trust everyone will have a Fabulous Friday! Enjoy :)



For more friday funnies go see Kim and laugh some more

Love and Blessings