Recovery

Angela's recovery is going well. Each day is a little better. She has been blessed to have family and friends calling to check on her daily. On Friday afternoon Kathy came to see her and brought her a gift card from Movie Gallery, her friends Breanna and Brittany came by to see her and brought homemade chocolate cupcakes and some books to read while she's recovering. Our friend, Tom, drove up after work to spend the weekend with us and brought her a pretty bouquet of flowers (and he even brought mom a rose). After Tom arrived, the two of us went to Movie Gallery to pick her out a couple of movies to watch after I cooked dinner. Once we were done eating, her friend Steven came over to watch movies with her and Cheyenne. Later in the evening when she got tired she began hurting pretty bad. She chose to sleep on the couch instead of my bed or her bed. After taking a pain pill, she finally got some sleep.

On Saturday, Phyllis and Jim brought her some banana pudding to enjoy. She spent most of the day relaxing without friends and even took a sponge bath. The bandage can be taken off today but she isn't comfortable yet with the idea of getting in the shower because she has to take the stabilizer brace off to do so. Tom and I talked her into going to Beef O'Bradys last night for dinner just to get her out of the house for a little while. She seemed to enjoy it. Last night she slept in her bed and didn't need any medication during the night.

She is taking fewer pain meds and is learning to fight the pain. She opted to take Advil this morning instead so I think the pain isn't as severe as it has been. Her spirits remain positive and I can tell she is getting restless just sitting or laying around. Later today I will take her to Movie Gallery to get a few more movies and to get her out for a while.

ACL Reconstruction

Angela had her ACL Reconstruction surgery yesterday morning at 7:30. At 9:10 Dr. Shannon came out to tell me the surgery went well and that there were no surprises. He took a graft of one of her hamstrings and made a new ACL by attaching the graft into the tibia and femur with drill guides. Once the graft is pulled through the drill hole and into the knee it is in the same position as the original ACL and it is then held in place with bioabsorbale screws or metallic screws. They did a femur block to help with the pain while she was still under. I was able to go into recovery to help her get dressed for the ride home. She had no problem waking up and was not sick this time. She has on stabilizer brace over the bandage for 3 - 4 days. She is allowed to bear weight on her leg when she is comfortable during so, until then she will use her crutches. I'm going to attempt to get her to start bearing weight on it at least by Sunday. On Friday we will travel to Fort Myers to have her stitches removed and watch the video of the surgery. Dr. Shannon will set up therapy on Friday as well. Thankfully we will be able to do therapy in Clewiston!

We got home around 11:30 on Thursday and she slept most of the afternoon. Around 6:00 p.m. the block began to wear off and she started on her pain meds. By 10:00 p.m. last night she was in intense pain even with the pain meds. Finally around midnight she fell asleep and didn't wake up again until around 2:00 a.m. for more meds. She has done better today but is still taking the pain medication as needed.

Her spirits are great and she is appreciative of everyone that has visited or called. Her best friend, Cheyenne, has been right by her side since she woke up yesterday afternoon. Continue to pray that she will not be in much pain and that her recovery goes well.

Napping once we got home.

Pictures from Surgery that we were given after surgery.

Friday's Feast

Appetizer -On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being highest) how much do enjoy watching sports on television? Depending on what the sport is. . . if it is college football or baseball I would give it a 10.

Soup-If you could completely memorize any one work of fiction, which one would you pick? I have no idea.

Salad-What is your favorite breakfast food? Eggs, bacon or sausage.

Main Course-Name something fun you can do for less than $10.00. Rent a movie. Watch little league baseball or go to a soccer game here in town. Things I can do that doesn't cost anything. . . spend time with my friends in their homes or my home.

Dessert-How long does it usually take you to fall asleep? Most nights in less than 10 minutes.

Waiting

Have you ever stopped to think how our society is a "I want it now" society? I admit that patience is something I struggle with daily. I notice it when I'm driving (and Clewiston isn't a metropolitan area by any means), when I'm standing in line at Wal-Mart checking out, when I'm at the drive thru of a fast food chain, or any given moment. I am part of that society that wants things "now" and waiting is not something I enjoy doing. However, it is clear in God's Word that he desires us to wait. There are around 135 references regarding waiting in scripture. I don't know about you, but when I see that many references to a word in scripture it tells me this is important subject matter. As I've thought about this today I found this quote:

Wait on God and He will work, but don't wait in spiritual sulks because you
cannot see an inch in front of you! Are we detached enough from our own
spiritual hysterics to wait on God? To wait is not to sit with folded hands, but
to learn to do what we are told." ~ Oswald Chambers

So I leave you with this thought: Since patience is one of the fruits of the Spirit, time must be a special quality of the character of God himself. I find that remarkable - - even God must wait patiently for the fulfillment of his own plan for Redemption. So who are we to grumble when we are told to wait? My prayer is that I would wait, and find joy in the waiting. Too many times I've had to learn over and over the lesson of patience only after I've spent all my energies and manipulations trying to do things in my time instead of God's time and God telling me yet again,"It's not going to happen the way or the moment you want it to. You must wait."

Not So Quiet Anymore

I spent Wednesday, Thursday and Friday this past week alone. David left on Sunday afternoon to visit friends in Orlando and Angela left on Wednesday afternoon to spend a few days at Ft. Myers Beach with girlfriends. Everybody knows I don't cherish time away from them and how miserable I am when they are away. The house is eerily quiet without them. I counted the days until they returned and called them daily to see how they were doing. I know I'm pathetic, but they are my life.

With them gone I found things to do with girlfriends that kept me from being alone. On Thursday night, I had the opportunity to help prepare a meal along with my friend, Kristene, for a member of our church that recently was hospitalized. We took the meal we had prepared to them and visited with them for a while. After ministering to their need we returned to Kristene's apartment for dinner and wonderful conversation. Kristene was a gracious hostess and sent me home with a full stomach and several books that I look forward to reading.

On Friday night, I picked up Phyllis and Jessica after work. The three of us drove to Palm Beach to have dinner and watch a movie. We had dinner at Olive Garden and went window shopping at the Wellington Mall before going to see License to Wed. The movie was a great comedy and just what I needed!

David got back yesterday and Angela got home today. Everything is as it should be again. I enjoyed cooking for them today and just hanging out with them. It's great to have them home.

Welcome to the World Phoebe Grace Stowe

Congratulations to Sean, Diana & Hannah Stowe on the birth of their daughter and sister Phoebe Grace Stowe. She weighs 8 lbs 7 oz. and is 21 1/2 inches long with blue eyes. We can't wait to meet this precious little girl!

Friday's Feast

Appetizer-What is your favorite fruit? Watermelon.

Soup-Who is someone you consider as a great role model? My parents. The taught me so much about life and how to raise a family.

Salad-If you were to spend one night anywhere within an hour of your home, where would you choose? It's actually an hour and a half, but I'd spend the night in Miami Shores. It's one of my favorite places to go.

Main Course -Name something you do too often. Talk. . . I should listen more.

Dessert-Fill in the blank: I really like ___________ because ____________. I really like it when my kids are at home because I'm lonely without them.

College Update

After much pray and trying to figure out the financing of college there has been a change of plans concerning David's college education. He will not be enrolling at Full Sail, however he will be attending Palm Beach Community College. David and I have realized that at this time it just isn't in God's plans for him to attend Full Sail. Yes, he was disappointed at first but has come to understand that sometimes things just don't go the way we would desire them to go, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't pursue our goals. So, he is just going about those goals in a different way.

He received several scholarships but even with those scholarships and the loans that he was eligilbe for we still had to come up with a significant amount of money to finish paying for the tuition not to mention living expenses. That in and of itself played a major factor into deciding to attend Palm Beach Community College. His Bright Futures Scholarship will pay 100% for his two years at the Community College whereas it would have only paid 25% at Full Sail. The scholarship he received from the Lion's Club he can use once he enrolls at a University. We are still in the process of checking on the other scholarships he has received to see if he can use them at a later date.

He is up in Orlando spending a week with Debbie and Hope who moved there a few weeks ago as well as visiting Abi for her birthday. He drove up on Sunday afternoon and needless to say I was on edge until he called to say he arrived safely. He will return home on Saturday. Next week he will talk with the advisor at Palm Beach Community College and enroll for classes.

Although I know how much he wanted to go to Full Sail and move out from home, I am happy that he will be living at home and going to school. I just wasn't eager about him moving 3 hours away. He will still obtain the goals he has set for himself and I pray that he continue sees God's hand at work in his life.

Mile Marker O

On Thursday morning David, Angela and I headed out for our family vacation. They both invited a friend to go with us (Tommy and Cheyenne) and we were thrilled they were able to go. We drove to the Florida Keys to spend 2 nights and 3 days. David and Angela had been to Key Largo when they were Elementary School, however I had never been. We had a safe trip down although a frustrating one. Some where along the way I got lost and we ended up in downtown Miami lost. Being a female I was smart enough to stop and ask for directions. Once we were back on the road headed in the right direction the trip was more enjoyable. But like Tommy and David tried to make me feel better by asking, "What is a road trip without getting lost?" Personally I could have done without that part of our trip.

We arrived at our beachside resort in Grassy Key around 4:00 p.m. on Thursday. After checking in we were all starving so we drove 15 minutes into Marathon to eat and pick up snacks and drinks. Once back to the room we changed into our swimming suits. David, Angela, Cheyenne and Tommy went out in the kayaks while I laid in the hammock reading a book. Later that evening a friend of Tommy's (Gracie) from college that lives in Plantation Key came by the room to visit with us and we all drove to Islamorada for dinner at Outback Steak House.

The following morning we drove to Key West for the day. Driving over the bridges that connect all the different islands (there are actually 39 islands connected by 43 bridges) was breath taking. One of the bridges is actually 7 miles long and the water is beautiful on both sides of the bridge. While driving through Key Deer the kids saw a Key Deer but I missed it because I was driving. Once we arrived in Key West we purchased tickets for the Conch Train Tour where we toured the island while hearing the history of Key West. After the train tour we had lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe. From there we went to Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum. The kids enjoyed the museum however I wasn't thrilled with this attraction. Once we left the museum we walked along the famous Duval Street until time to board the Discovery Glass Bottom Boat. Once aboard the Discovery we arrived on a reef where we got to see the colorful coral, exotic tropical fish, and a variety of marine life. The glass bottom boat took 2 hours round trip but was well worth the time. Back on shore we walked around the island just people watching and browsing the shops until we all were ready to eat again. For dinner we choose Guy Harvey's Island Grill. After dinner we went to Mallory Square for the Sunset Celebration. Each night prior to sunset people gather at Mallory Square to watch the sunset as well as various performers and arts and crafts show. On this particular night we saw an escape artist, a fire juggler and a dog performing tricks. Once the sun set we traveled back to our room for the night.

On Saturday morning, Angela and I watched the sunrise on the beach while everyone else slept. We then made everyone get up and we packed the van before heading back to Key West before driving home. We went to the Ship Wreck Museum and then went to the Key West Aquarium. At the Aquarium the demonstrator tried to get Angela to put her finger in a hermit crab's mouth and amazingly she was afraid to do it. So I hesitantly took her place. By the time we finished the two attractions we were hot and hunger so we went to Dante's for lunch. Dantes has a pool that is open to the public as long as you order drinks or food. Needless to say we changed into our swim suits and enjoyed relaxing in the pool before heading to the Pirates Museum. Tommy wanted to see the Pirates Museum so we headed out and I was actually amazed at how interesting it turned out to be. Once we exited the museum it was time to head home. Before leaving the island we drove down to the Southern Most Point in the United States to snap a photo of all of us.

The drive home didn't take as long as the drive to the Keys because I actually took the right highways home instead of taking detours and getting us lost. However, 20 minutes from home I was pulled over by a Palm Beach Sheriff along with another blue van with a Hendry County tag. I knew the other van was the one speeding but as the officer explained he had to pull us both since we were side by side when he clocked us on radar. Thankfully, the other driver was honest and told the officer he was the guilty one.

We enjoyed our time in the Keys but as with all trips we were glad to be home. Here are some pictures from our vacation:
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Friday Feast Courtesy of Mike

Appetizer - What was the first job you ever had?

I worked at Hardees for one night.

Soup - (Taken from Bravo’s Inside the Actor’s Studio) - Name a profession you have always wanted to try. Social Worker

Salad (also from the Actor’s Studio) - Name a profession you would NEVER want to try. Anything in the medical field. I'm too squeamish.

Entree - (also from the Actor’s Studio) - What is your favorite sound in the world?
First my children's voices, then it would have to be the sound of waves breaking at the shore.

Dessert - (and from the Actor’s Studio) - If there is a Heaven, what would you like to hear from God when you arrive? "Well done thy good and faithful servant"

We're Back

We're back from our mini vacation. We arrived home tonight around 9:30. I'll post later about our adventure. Until then check out the Friday Feast courtesy of Mike.

On Friday evening I got together with a friend from church, Kristene Petersen and her friend, Anna Jo Springfield, for a girl's night out. We drove over to West Palm Beach to see the movie "Evening" with Meryl Streep and Glen Close. The best thing I can say about the movie was the scenery was beautiful. After being very disappointed in the movie we ate at Olive Garden in Wellington and enjoyed wonderful conversation with each other.

On Saturday afternoon the kids and I drove to Miami to see the Marlins vs the Braves. Thankfully the rain stopped in time for the game and stayed away throughout the game. As we got onto 595 in Ft. Lauderdale we encountered a downpour. David had planned on arriving at the stadium in time to watch batting practice, however due to the heavy rain we opted to eat instead. Following the game, which the Braves won 6-5, we stayed to watch the fireworks display and Joan Jett and the Blackhearts in concert. Even though it made for a late (we got home around 1:15 a.m.) it was worth enduring the drive in the rain and the lack of sleep. I love watching David at a baseball game. There is nothing he likes better than watching a game.

Friday Feast

Appetizer - How many pieces of jewelry do you wear most days?
Usually it's just 3 - earrings and a ring on each hand.

Soup - What is your favorite instrumental song?
Unchained Meldoy.

Salad - Who has a last name that you like?
Not something I've given any thought to.

Main Course - Name a popular movie you’ve never seen.
American Pie, Shrek 3, Spiderman. The list could go on.

Dessert - Fill in the blank: Nothing makes me ___________ like ____________
Nothing makes me feel hurt than when people I think are friends don't keep in touch or people use me.

Friday Feast

Appetizer: Name a funny habit you have. Can't think of a funny habit, just the annoying ones that I have. So I'll just leave it at sucking my teeth.

Soup: If you could instantly know how to play a musical instrument, which one would you pick. The guitar.

Salad: How long is your hair? Not even to my shoulders. This afternoon it's getting cut again.

Main Course: When was the last time you forgave someone, and who was it? This is a tough one. I can't remember when or who. Now I'm wondering if there is someone I need to forgive or wondering if I'm getting better about forgetting when I forgive someone. I pray it's the latter.

Dessert: What is your favorite kitchen appliance? My coffee maker. I couldn't go without it.

Surgery Scheduled

After waiting for Dr. Shannon's office to call us to schedule surgery for two days I finally gave in and called them. We now have a date. . . Thursday, July 19. We aren't sure of the time yet, because the hospital handles the time not the doctor's office. They will call us at the beginning of that week to let us know what time, go over health history and let us know if there is any pre-op. Angela is anxious to get it done and was disappointed that the date wasn't sooner than that. They only fear she has expressed at this point is having an IV inserted.

Thumpin' Thursday

With summer here we are having Thumpin Thursday's for the youth at church. Mike and Terri Ingram are opening the youth hall on Thursday's from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. for the youth to play games, fellowship, eat and a devotional. This past Thursday the youth went bowling in Lake Placid and then to dinner at Pizza Hut. There were 7 adults and 15 youth that went. Everyone enjoyed the night laughing at each other bowl. None of us are pros at bowling. Here are some pictures from our night out.

Surgery Pending

Today Angela had her knee x-rayed again to see if her growth plates were closed. She has anxiously been awaiting this appointment since November of last year when Dr. Churchhill her that the plates were not closed. All the waiting has payed off and she was thrilled to hear that her wait is over, the growth plate is closed. Dr. Shannon (one of the other orthopedic surgeons in the group) came in to consult with us about the surgery since he will be the one to perform the surgery. He explained to us both the procedure of the arthroscopic reconstruction of the ACL. It will be a same day surgery followed by 3 months of therapy. I have never seen someone so excited about having surgery. Dr. Shannon's office will call us Monday to schedule surgery. Angela has already told them she wants it ASAP.

Friday Feast

Appetizer:
Fill in the blank: The best thing about where I live is that it is only 89.7 miles from where my best friend lives. I wouldn't want to be any further away.

Soup:
Create a new name for a deodorant (like “Flower Fresh” or “Shower Scent”).
Stink Away.

Salad:
What was the last piece of software you installed onto your computer?
iTunes.

Main Course:
If you were to receive a superlative award today beginning with the words ”Most likely to…”, what would the rest of the phrase say?
Most likely to help a friend.

Dessert:
What two colors do you like to wear together?
Black and white.

How Does This Happen

I was looking at Wink News website this morning and came across this headline, "Baby dies after being left in hot car." Turns out that a 22 month old girl died from being in her parent's car that was parked in the hot Florida sun.

As I read the news article I was horrifed to find out that the parents had been painting in the garage while their four children (ages 7, 6,5, and 22 months) played outside. Appartenly the 22 month old child likes to ride in the car and loves her booster seat. It seems that the child got in the car without the parents knowing. They didn't discover her until the mom went out some 30 minutes later to go to the store with two of the older children.

Here are the questions that I find myself asking:

1. How do you not miss a 22 month old child for more than 30 minutes?
2. How did that 22 month old child get in the car by herself?
3. Why haven't they been charged with neglect?

Things like this an unfathomable to me. I'm trying hard not to judge, but where were these parents?

Miami = Good Times with a Good Friend

Angela and I left Friday when I got off work for a fun filled weekend in Miami. We got to Tom's at 6:30 p.m.; actually 30 minutes sooner than I thought we would arrive. After unloading the van and visiting with Tom for a while we all decided to go grab a bite to eat. Tom treated us to his favorite seafood restaurant, Captain Jim's Seafood. The food was awesome. Tom told us before we got there that they actually sell fresh seafood there as well as having the restaurant. While eating Tom and I had a good laugh at Angela's expense. She and Tom were discussing something about Central America (can't remember exactly what it was) and Angela said, "Yeah I know they serve it in New Orleans." Meaning that New Orleans is located in Central America. After dinner we returned home and enjoyed relaxing (as our bellies were stuffed) before heading to bed.

On Saturday we went to Publix and then headed back to cook breakfast. Tom cooks some of the best scrambled eggs you will ever eat. After eating and watching television for a while we went to see a movie. When we got to the movie theater we had just missed the start time so we ended up just window shopping in the mall waiting for the next one to start. This was torture for Angela because I had left my purse at Tom's. Prior to embarking into the mall Tom told Angela to led the way because he doesn't do malls to which she quickly replied, "I don't do malls without money." She was a trooper though and made it through the entire mall without complaint. We still had time to waste so Tom treated us to milkshakes at Johnny Rockets. They were awesome. After the movie we returned home where Tom baked potatoes and broiled some pork chops for dinner while Angela enjoyed the pool for a little while.

Sunday morning came too quickly and we spent the morning enjoying the beautiful weather on the pool deck while Angela enjoyed the pool. Once again the pool followed another great breakfast. While out on the pool deck, Tom noticed a huge spider had built a web in the corner of the screen. He searched for bugs to feed him, but none were to be found. I've never seen a spider that huge and was thankful that while I was taking pictures of him he didn't decide to move or else I would have landed in the pool.


It was a very relaxing weekend and we hope to do again soon either down in Miami or in Clewiston.

Friday's Feast

Appetizer: What do you consider to be the ultimate snack food?
Barbeque potato chips or ice cream.

Soup: On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 as highest), about how popular is your last name?
I had no idea so I googled it. Found out my ex-husband's last name (the one I am stuck with) it is not very common in the US. However, my maiden name is more common.

Salad:Who is your all-time favorite sitcom character, and why?
Andy Griffith because his character was honest, compassionate and trustworthy. Things I respect in people.

Main Course:Do you shop online? If so, name some sites you like to browse for goodies.
I occassionally shop online. When I do it's Old Navy, Amazon.com or Christian Book Distributers (cbd.com).

Dessert: Fill in the blank: I think ___________ should be ___________.
I think employers should be required to give their employees a nap 2 hour nap after lunch with milk and cookies when they wake up.

Surprises

My friend and owner of Common Grounds Coffee Shop, Lori Williams,is one of the sweetest women I know. She always has a positive attitude and on many occassions has shared Scripture that God has put on her heart during her devotional time. It's not unusual for her to tell me when I stop by for coffee in the mornings that she'll be praying for me throughout the day or say, "something woke me up last night and just felt a need to pray for you." She is such a lovely person and I treasure our friendship.

Today I had run some errands for the church and returned to the office to find a message on the church phone. It was her telling me to return her call A.S.A.P. Instantly I wondered if something was wrong and called her back. She was only calling to tell me to stop by the shop before 2:00 p.m. because she had something for me. As it turned out I had planned to eat at the shop for lunch.

This is what she had for me. . . .

The shoes actually match perfectly with the white capris and red tunic that I am wearing today. Thanks Lori for completing my outfit!

The Latest

This is my latest favorite picture of Angela. She is so photogenic, totally unlike her mother.

Paid in Full

Two weeks ago while getting ready for work I discovered that our hot water heater was leaking. If you have ever lived in a mobile home you know that the water heaters are in a closet. Yeah, our water heater is located in my closet! The plumber came out first thing that morning and had our new water heater installed by 11:00 a.m. and I had a bill of $475 for parts and labor! Just what I needed another bill to pay.

Due to all the construction on the roofs at the church and debris falling everywhere we had a plumbing problem here at the church. Our floor drains in the restrooms were stopped up (which we discovered yesterday morning). The plumber was called yesterday and he advised to wait until this morning since his plumbing fees are doubled on the weekends. First thing this morning the plumber was here to unstop our drains. In talking to him about our problem he informed me that he was supposed to call me today anyway because he needed to discuss my bill with me for the water heater. I thought we had made arrangements for me to pay for the services in two installments so I wasn't sure what he meant by his statement and I was worried that he was about to tell me that he couldn't do the installment payments. I was thrilled however to find out that on Saturday he received a payment in the mail for the bill that I owed him. Someone wrote a check (one of those you get from the bank when you run out of yours) to cover my bill! I asked the plumber if he knew who paid the bill and he said he couldn't read the signature on the check and the return address read "Jesus"!

Needless to say I was thanking God for whomever the person was and thanking him for providing for my needs yet again! This was another reminder that God works everything for good for those that love him and that he supplies our every need whether it be physical, spiritual or financially. Not only is that debt paid but the Bible says "the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus, our Lord." That is what Jesus meant when he said, "It is finished" was that the price for my sin had been "Paid In Full" by his death on the cross. It was as if Jesus was taking a big rubber stamp and stamping my life "Paid In Full!"

Friday's Feast

Appetizer : Name something you think is “the best.”
Several things come to mind, the first thing is my salvation. The others are when David and Angela accepted Christ and watching them grow in their walk with him and watching a sunrise on the beach.

Soup: On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 highest), how stressed are you today?
It has been a stressful week, however today my stress level is at 3. The roofers aren't here today and it looks as if the rooms will be ready for Vacation Bible School and the A/C guys are here to restore the a/c in my office!!!

Salad :What kind of cleanser do you use to wash your face?
Aveeno Clear Complexion Cleansing Pads.

Main Course: Tonight is a blue moon! What is something that you believe only happens “once in a blue moon.”
I'll get together with friends.

Dessert:When was the last time it rained where you live?
It is actually sprinkling today! We need the rain badly. They are concerned about the lake level being so low.

My Own Laptop

I am now the owner of a Gateway laptop! When my brother, Robert, came down for David's graduation he brought his old laptop with him and gave it to me. It is so nice to sit on the couch instead of that old uncomfortable desk chair while on the computer. Thanks Robert, I'm enjoying the laptop big time!

Celebrating Friends

Eight years ago this weekend I met a wonderful friend. When we met I had no idea how much he come to mean to me. It's hard to believe with the miles that separate us that we have remained friends all these years. Through the years we have shared laughter and tears. Through email, instant messaging, and phone calls a month has never passed that we haven't been in touch.

Some friendships fade with time and distance or replaced with new ones. Then there are friendships that only grow deeper and stronger with time. I am blessed that the friendship that started eight years ago this weekend is one that has grown deeper and stronger with time. Friendships like these don't happen often, but I am glad I found you.

Construction

It's finally happening. . . the re-roofing process at the church has begun. In 2005 when Hurricane Wilma hit our church sustained some damages and we are still dealing with the repairs. The restoration company that we hired to repair the damages following the hurricane have not done what the promised to do, so our contract with them after 18 months has been terminated. One of the major jobs that had to be done was re-roofing the Educational wing. This roofing job is no simple re-roof job due to the fact that there are 3 layers of roofing on this area which requires removal of all roofs and new one installed.

On Wednesday morning the roofer came into my office and told me that I needed to move my office to the former youth pastor's office. They would begin removing the roof over the offices and old fellowship hall. As of this morning I am at home due to heavy dust that I was breathing in and the fact that I had everything done for the week. Not to mention that somewhere along the way of putting the new roof on this morning, something happened with the phone lines. So instead of a 3 day weekend, I get a 4 day weekend!

Here are pictures of what the office area looked like yesterday afternoon.

Friday's Feast

Appetizer: Name a sound you like to hear.
The voices of my children and rain on a metal roof.

Soup:What is your favorite kind of cheese?
Parmesan cheese on salads and pasta.

Salad:Do you sleep late on Saturday mornings? Why or why not?
I normally sleep later on Saturday mornings than any other morning depending on what I need to do. During the week I have to be at work at 8:30 and Sunday mornings we get up early to get ready for Sunday School and Church.

Main Course:When was the last time you forgot something?
What was it, and how long did it take to remember it?
Just this year I forgot a good friend's birthday until I read her blog

Dessert:Fill in the blank: I notice my day is better when I have begun my day by spending time in God's Word.

Increase My Faith

Do you expect to sin? Think about that question for a moment. . . when you get up in the morning do you say, "Lord, I know before this day is over I'm going to sin today, so I'm going to ask for forgiveness in advance." The word "expect" is defined as having the intention of ; regard as likely to happen. So by saying that we "expect" to sin are we saying that we have the intention of sinning? Is it any different than saying "I expect to return home from work this afternoon."

This was the question that our chairman of deacons, Glen Pridgen, asked last night as he led Bible Study. Glen's question made me think about how often I go about my day expecting that I will at some point sin. Now part of that is because of the sin nature within me, but it is also a lack of faith. As I have meditated on the things Glen said last night, I am reminded that we are to be holy just as Christ is holy. Therefore, if I anticipate or expect to sin I'm willfully sinning and saying that God's grace is not sufficient to keep me from sinning.

My attitude should not be that I am enslaved to sin, however it should be one that is freed from sin. God promises me that he who began a good work in me will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. So my cry this morning is that of the apostles, "Increase my faith!"

We have all heard "when I was your age, I had to walk six miles through the snow to get to school." When a friend of mine sent me this cartoon I couldn't resist sharing it. With gas prices on the rise it's no laughing matter.

More Photos of Graduation

David and Abi waiting in the cafeteria before graduation.
David, Abi and Chris
David and Angela after graduation
Abi and David after graduation




David showing off his diploma after graduation

Dinner with Family and Friends

Last night before graduation we enjoyed a meal at Sonny's with our family and friends. Among those there were David's dad and his girlfriend, Becky,Lawrence and Donna Worth, Elgin Shore, Brian, Katherine and Nathan, George and Grace Thall, Tommy McClusky, David's Uncle Robert, David's Uncle Andy, Aunt Fredia, Angela, Cheyenne, and myself. The Gutshall's came by for a little while but didn't eat with us. This gave David the opportunity to visit with family and friends prior to graduation. As I looked around the table I thought of how each person at the table had somehow influenced David's life.


We are so happy that some of our family was able to travel from Tallahasee for this special moment in his life. David has been blessed to have the support of his family and friends and we know that they will continue to pray for and encourage him.



Mrs. Worth sharing some words of wisdom
Ms. Katherine, Nathan, Ms. Grace and George
Angela, Alan (their father), David and Becky
Aunt Fredia, Uncle Robert, Angela, Uncle Andy, David and Mom

We Did It!

I now present to you a graduate of the class of 2007!

Friday Feast

Appetizer:
List 3 emotions you experienced this week.
It's been a week full of various emotions. The three that come to mind are joy, pride, and fatigue. That joy comes from seeing David completing school and embarking in the next phase of his life and just the fact the God has given me the privelege of raising David & Angela. Pride comes from the accomplishments David has attained. As well as being proud of both David and Angela. Fatigue from all the pre-graduation festivities on top of a normal week.

Soup:
Name a car you’d love to have.
I've always wanted a pick up truck. However, I am content with my mini van.

Salad:
Describe your typical morning routine.
Brush my teeth, drink a cup of coffee, smoke a cigarette while checking my e-mail, wake David and Angela up, shower and dress for work. Take Angela to school. Stop at Common Grounds Coffee Shop for more coffee before going to work.

Main Course:
Have you ever emailed someone famous? If so, who, and what did you say to them? Did they reply?
I don't know anyone who is famous.

Dessert:
Do you listen to podcasts? If so, which ones?
I don't listen to podcasts.

Baccalaurete Service

It's been a busy week with Pre-Graduation festivities. Tonight was Baccalaurete Service for the Class of 2007. This year's service was hosted by New Harvest Church and they did an excellent job of hosting.

It has also been a tearful week for mom. Last night at Class night I got teary eyed as David was presented with the Dan McCarthy Scholarship and talking with parents of his classmates. Earlier this week I got emotional as I read David's blog post about his father coming for graduation. Then tonight again as I tied his tie for the first time. Yes, I actually got it right but only after watching an instruction video off the internet on how to tie one. Tonight at the service as Marci from the Methodist Church sang "The River" by Garth Brooks I got teary eyed again (David use to imitate Garth when he was 3 & 4 years old) . Not to mention seeing the Class of 2007 in their cap and gowns for the first time.

Two of David's classmates, Chantelle Steele and Reggie Gray, sang specials as well at Baccalaurete. The Ministerial Association Scholarship was awarded tonight to Alton Edmons as well as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Scholarship to David Fountain. New Harvest had a drawing for prizes (2 gift certificates, 2 ipod shuffles, and 2 televisions) for the graduates.

Pastor John Hicks from the Methodist Church brought the message tonight from Romans 8:28. Since this particular verse is one of David's favorites it was special. Not to mention that we are currently studying Romans on Wednesday nights at our church.

Following the service David wanted to go hang out with Tommy and Debbie. He's been busy every night and hasn't had the opporunity to just hang out with friends. Prior to the service I had taken some pictures of David in his cap and gown along with other snapshots of his classmates. But somehow they got deleted. I did manage to get home with some from the service.

Class of 2007

Jimmy Pittman speaks prior to announcing the FCA Scholarship receipent

Pastor John Hicks

2007 Class Night

Tonight was 2007 Class Night at Clewiston High School. Graduates were presented with Academic Awards, Scholarships (Academic and Community). It was a proud night for parents and graduates as we witnessed the various achievements of these young men and women. Many of whom we have known throughout the years and have watched mature into the fine gentlemen and ladies they are today.

David received two awards tonight. The Academic Achievement Award for obtaining a grade point average of 3.0 or above. The Bright Futures Medallion Scholarship . He also received the Dan McCarthy Scholarship (valued at $8,000) from the Lions Club.

Tonight Angela and I sat beside the parents of a friend of David's, Kristin Way. They have been in school together since we moved here in 1996. Her mom is a teacher at the Elementary School that David attended. Kristin's dad and I talked prior to the program about the many field trips that we chaperoned when they were younger. It was fun reminiscing about those times and realizing that now they are about to embark into a new journey in their lives.

David and Angela before entering the program

David, myself and Tuesday Tritt, President of Lions Club, with his scholarship award

Spring Fever

I know I should be working. . . but I keep thinking how I would love to be sitting on a beach right now with a book in my hand and a cool drink by my side just relaxing. Every year about this time I begin to have "spring fever" and I want to be outside enjoying the sunshine instead of in an office.

Friday's Feast

Appetizer:
Tell about a time when you had to be brave. Eleven years ago when I moved to Clewiston and became a single mom. Not knowing then how I would do it on my own.

Soup:
Which upcoming movie are you excited about seeing? Fracture (Anthony Hopkins) and Amazing Grace (when it comes out on DVD).

Salad:
Name an item you try to always have on hand. Coffee, I love my coffee.

Main Course:
Imagine the most relaxing room you can think of. Now describe it! A room with a view in the mountains with comfy chair or sofa with candles burning and the lights dimmed.

Dessert:
On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being highest), how spiritual or religious are you? I wish I could say a 10 because that is where I desire to be, but I am a sinner saved by grace. So I am going to say a 7 or 8.

Did You Get a Haircut?

I couldn't stand the long hair any longer, so today I went and had Julie cut it off. At first I wasn't sure what I wanted her to do, but as always she had the answer. . . "Cut it short." This is the longest I've ever gone with longer hair and it feels so good to have it short again. I've had different comments ranging from "I can't believe you cut it" to "I love it." Now that it's short again I feel much better. It's amazing what a haircut can do to make us feel better.

Full Sail Tour Concluded

Our tour of the Full Sail campus began on Sunday at 12:00 p.m. David was excited to have the opportunity to go into the different areas of the school and the main building for show production and touring. Angela and I were unfamiliar with all of the technology that we were surrounded by, yet amazed the people actually know how to operate the equipment.

Full Sail is a nice campus although small in comparison to other ones. David & I were both pleased to learn that show production and touring is kept to a small classroom size. They explained to us that show production and touring students go to school on a 24/7 schedule, learning to sleep in 4 hour blocks. They do this in order to keep lecture classrooms to a 32 to 1 ratio and the labs (where they do hands on) at a 6 to 1 ratio. David wasn't to keen on the idea of sleeping in 4 hour blocks, but I think he can handle if he sets his mind to it.

Another bonus, according to David, is the Project LaunchBox that provides all incoming students with a MacBook Pro notebook loaded with software. It will allow them access to their portfolios anywhere they are.

We all enjoyed the tour and I think David would enjoy being at this school for 13 months considering the passion he has for this field. Now it's just a matter of figuring out the financial end of things.

This picture is actually the Show Production and Touring building. It's across the street from the main campus.

Full Sail Tour Continued

As I mentioned in the previous post, we were ready to relax after looking at apartments. However, since David doesn't own a pair of black dress pants (he has to have them for graduation) we needed to purchase a pair. Since we live an hour away from a mall we decided to purchase them while in Orlando. We found a shopping center nearby and enjoyed window shopping after we purchased the pants. We happened to find a Barnes & Nobles and decided to go in for drinks and a coffee. The coffee hit the spot and to my delight I even pick up a copy of the book Amazing Grace. I have been wanting to see it in movie form, but the book will be just as good.

After we left the shopping mall we headed back to the hotel where David and I went swimming while I started on my book. Later in the evening we went to Olive Garden for dinner and then to Boardwalk Bowl. We bowled for an hour and then played on game of glow in the dark mini golf. I bowl about as well as I golf. Very poorly. The first game I bowled a sixty two, Angela an eighty and David won with 105. The next game was even worse for me. I managed to bowl 5 gutter balls in a row, ending up with a 52. Angela improved with an 85 and David continued to dominate with a 90. The golf game was fun but like I said I'm not good at either one. My golf score on 9 holes 35. Angela scored 35 as well and David won again with 27.

We enjoyed being together just the three of us and laughing at each other. I think this was my favorite part of the trip. It was on the way back to the hotel that I thought about when David is college we won't have those opportunities as often and made me wish we had done more of these kind of things.

Apartment Search

We are spending the weekend in Winter Park, Florida looking at apartments and attending the Full Sail Tour. Today we looked at 5 apartment complexes near Full Sail. We actually had a list of 8 apartments that we wanted to look at but after looking at 5 of them, we were ready to head back to the hotel to swim and relax before going to dinner and bowling. Our favorite apartment so far is University Walk. It is located two blocks away from Full Sail and has an individual lease agreement. The individual lease agreement allows you to lease a 2 bedroom/2 bath apartment for $598 per month. This way if your room mate bails on you, you are only responsible for your lease agreement. The other options for the same size apartment without the individual lease agreement is $980 per month. These apartments also come furnished or unfurnished. The one we got to look at was furnished.

Along with University Walk we also looked at other apartments ranging from $780 per month up to $990 per month with no individual lease agreements. University Walk also has Chick A Fil, Cosco, Target, Burger King, gas stations, and Sonny's all within a block of each other.

We will think more seriously on the apartment front once we figure out the financial aide and student loans. We will have the opportunity to find out all this tomorrow during our tour at Full Sail.

Friday's Feast

Appetizer:

Name something you would not want to own. The first thing that pops into my head is a snake. I'm sure there are other things, but this is top on my list.

Soup:

Describe your hair (texture, color, length, etc.). Since I just colored it Monday it is now a dark brown (which I am not happy with), but it is naturally light brown with lots of gray. I have let it go out and it's down to my collar. The texture is coarse.

Salad:

Finish this sentence: I’ll never forget the day David and Angela were born and how I felt the first time I held them in my arms.

Main Course:

Which famous person would you like to be for one day? Why? I'm happy being myself. But I desire to be more Christ like. Why? To glorify God.

Dessert:

Write one sentence about yourself that includes one thing that is true and another thing that is not. (True statement)I have been saved bygrace through faith and not from myself, but it is a gift of God. (False statement) I am not nervous about David leaving home.

Relationships

One-sided relationships are painful. You are the one that calls just to see how their day is going, but never receive one in return. You send cards, but never get them. You attempt to set dates to get together, but there is always an excuse why they can't.

It’s relationships like these that make you realize how empty everything is without the heart, without mutual affection. In a one-sided relationship you begin to realize that you are the only one reaching out, that nobody is reaching out for you. The other person is just going through the motions to fulfill some sense of obligation, and you feel they would prefer that you left them alone. It’s not a fulfilling relationship, it’s a one-sided affair, and you feel like a rejected fool.

I imagine that this is how God feels with us sometimes. He reaches out to embrace us, but we don’t embrace him in return. He tries to walk with us, but we hold his hand stiffly, fulfilling a duty instead of enjoying a tender touch. We go through the motions, acting like we belong to God, while our hearts are far away. We never reach for him. Sometimes we would prefer he weren’t in our life so we could be free to do the things we really want to do. We claim to be with God, but he knows that we have rejected him.

One-sided relationships are painful for both of the parties involved. The real joy comes in giving yourself body and soul to one who loves you in return. God doesn’t want us to just act like we are with him, he wants our hearts, our passions, our sincere love. That’s the kind of relationship that will last through the ages.

Appetizer:

How fast can you type? Not sure how fast in words per minute. I type faster when nobody is watching.

Soup:

What is your favorite online game? Luxor - Amun Rising. Liked it so much I purchased it.

Salad:

On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 as highest), how intelligent do you think you are? Hmm. . . maybe a 6.

Main Course:

Name three of your best teachers from your school years. Don't know if I can remember that far back. . . the ones that stand out are my 9th grade English teacher, my home economics teacher, and my 7th grade math teacher.

Dessert:

What are your plans for this upcoming weekend? Cleaning the house tonight or tomorrow morning, going to the 21st Annual Sugar Festival on Saturday afternoon and church on Sunday

Studying Romans

At church on Wednesday nights we have an inductive Bible study. We just completed 1 Peter. Jonathan Brooks started the inductive Bible study on 1 Peter and after he left, Pastor Brian continued the study. Both men did an excellent job teaching us God's Word.

Pastor Brian announced last night that our next study will be the book of Romans! Can I just tell you I am extremely excited to be able to have the opportunity to do an inductive Bible study on the book of Romans. Yes! One of my favorite things about an inductive Bible study is that we take the scripture verse by verse. It may take a while to get through a book of the Bible, but by the time you are done. . . you know the scripture in an intimate way.

Pastor Brian whetted my appetite last night for this Bible study. Here are a few things he gave us last night:

1. A simple outline of Romans:
   Chapters 1 - 8: How the Gospel Saves the Sinner
   Chapters 9 - 11: How the Gospel Relates to Israel
   Chapters 12 - 16: How We live in light of the Gospel.


2. A Key to Understanding Romans is knowing what imputed righteousness is. Imputed righteousness is a righteousness given without having to earn it.


3. The main message in Romans is the Gospel.


4. And finally this quote from John Calvin:
   “If a man understands Romans he has a sure road open to help him understand the entire Bible.”
   

Thought Provoking

We are the body of Christ, not in some figurative sense, but we are the flesh and blood of Jesus alive in the world through the Holy Spirit--God's hands, feet, ears.~Shane Claiborne The Irresistible Revolution