Looking Back

I cannot believe it is the end of 2006!! Where has the time gone?! I can recall Y2K and everyone's nervousness with that. I can even remember '98, or was it '99, when I watched the ball go down in Times Square for the first time. And here it is 2007! Wow!

As I look back at all that has happened this year, I can thank the Lord for being there every step of the way. Now, for those of you who know me very well, you would know that this year was not as hard as previous ones! (Thank goodness!) Yet, there have been ups and downs. Let's look back at some of those together.

I didn't get into the blogging world until March, so in February, I celebrated my 16th birthday. I agree with Mom; it seems impossible. I think it's because I look 12 or something. This was the year when I received my beautiful hopechest, made with love by Dad and Garrity. (Of course I cried when I got it!) How thankful I am to the Lord for blessing me with 16 years, and I am excited to see what He is going to do in the many years to come!

March was a highlight because I did get into blogging. Yes, I have to be cautious on the internet, but I love that I have made some like-minded friends. I know friends come and friends go, but you all mean a lot to me.

This year found my family seeing both sets of grandparents. Dad's were here in May; we went up to Montana in July. Even though I differ with them in matters of religion and politics, I am so thankful that they are alive! By God's grace, I have never been to a funeral, and I don't have itchy feet for one any time soon! Yes, both visits had their issues, but I think the good outweighs the bad, or at least, I hope it tries to.

Various other occurrences this year have been all the harvesting we have had to do....Doing MANY things with our church family....Going to the D.'s and L.'s for Thanksgiving and Christmas...Mom and I going to the Philharmonic every month....It has all been fun. (Though I am glad that fruit isn't growing right now! :-)

However, life wouldn't be complete without its hardships. I lost Melody this year. I had some...hmm...what word to use....interesting friendship stuff happen. I quit the bi-weekly get together. It was rough when it all happened. You can't know how many tears I cried. Yet, they are gone now. After you are able to look at a situation sensibly, you can see that it was all for the best. I have Juliet now, and who knows, maybe I can train her to ride on Nikki's back or something:-) The friendship stuff showed me that those weren't the best friends for me. Now, I can't say they would've led me done wrong avenues, but I can't say they wouldn't have either. No doing the get together has opened up my schedule a little more, enabling me to concentrate on schoolwork and I hope to start a group of my own.

This post seems like a Thanksgiving post, and maybe it is. But I don't see how one can look back over the past year and not be thankful. I am not here saying that a relative died or things like that. I know that there are people who could do that, and I am thankful not to be one of them. So, I close the book on 2006. If I had to give it a title, I think it would be: God is Faithful, and How Great is He! For that is what I have seen in my life this past year. God bless, and I will see you in the book entitled: 2007--God is at the Controls; Enjoy the Adventure!

My Christmas 2006 Memories

Well, Christmas is over, at least for the next 362 days. In our house it's back to normal music, and the tree will be gone this weekend. I haven't felt too pressured to post, since I have seen from other blogs, that no one is posting yet, either. Maybe I will get the ball rolling or something! Anyway, I am now able to look back and tell you all about this past weekend.

I think most of you knew that I was to play the piano on Christmas Eve, both in the morning and in the evening. Well, I was nervous, plain and simple. I don't like playing in front of people, and I don't like getting the credit, for God should be getting it. Anyway, I spent most of the morning, up until I played, in silent prayer. I didn't pray for perfection; I prayed for peace. I wanted my nerves to settle down. By His grace, the Lord got me through it, and I played pretty well. I also assisted up in children's church and did puppets, again...But the kids loved it. After service, our family went out to lunch. Now we used to go out on Christmas Eve night to a really fancy restaurant, but that wasn't in the budget this year. So, since we had nothing planned, we went to Macaroni Grill. Our family likes that place, and it was a nice change from past traditions. We then spent a few precious hours at home, and like usual, went back to church Sunday evening for the candlelight service. I was playing the piano again, this time in a duet with the piano player. Well, it didn't go well. I didn't make mistakes that you could notice, but I knew about them, and one of my issues in life is that I am a perfectionist. I don't like that, but it's something I will admit. So, I spent the remainder of the service silently crying and kicking myself over and over. Now, I can tell you the service was beautiful, and that Pastor Jeff sang very nicely, but I can also tell you that the Lord was working in me. He made me realize that I was more concerned with what people thought of my performance, instead of Him. Oops! I had something to confess.

Christmas morning was pleasant. We did our devotional, ate orange bread (the traditional..unhealthy..breakfast) and gave our gifts to Jesus. That was a special time. Then we opened presents. I received some nice ones. I got some dvds that I have been wanting really bad, a painting that I did not expect to get at all, and some books, among other things. Two of the books are more practical living ones entitled: So Much More, by Anna Sofia and Elizabeth Botkin, and Before You Meet Prince Charming, by Sarah Malley. I look forward to reading these two immensely.

(One brief piece of advice for you: Always check your dvds to make sure they work. I had to return the 6 hour Pride and Prejudice because the dvd was chipped, and The Little House on The Prarie Special Edition dvds had to be exchanged because I had two discs of one thing and was missing another. Talk about joyful flexibilty!)

We went over to the L.'s for Christmas dinner. Mr. L. jokes alot about my height, but I take it in good humor, and tease him right back. We ate ham, potatoes, green bean cassarole (at Christmas!!!) rolls, a relish tray, peppermint cheesecake (another tradition) brownies, and fudge. I ate too much, but it sure was good! We played several different games, including pinochle :-) We opened more gifts, and just had a great time. We left their house around nine or thereabouts, came home, did another devotional, and watched, A Christmas Carol. Which, just for your information, that movie creeps me out at parts. The music is so devious.....Ooh!

I believe that is the jist of my Christmas. It is about time to close this chapter of the book, and also of this year. I can't believe it is almost 2007, but that's not what I wanted to talk about. I hope you all felt the Lord in your holiday; I know I did. You can have no idea how much!! I am so thankful to the Lord for the most perfect gift of all this year, one that isn't chipped or wrong...His son, Jesus!!

***Just a word from me concerning the blog. I know that I have Christmas music and all that still up. The plan is for it to be changed this weekend. I might get to it ahead of time, but I am not sure. Besides, I said I would change things once a moth, and December isn't over yet!***

What Shall I Give Him?

Ok, I will be honest. I enjoy receiving presents. I look forward to unwrapping them and seeing what people have given me. However, giving gifts outweighs my own fleshly desires. I enjoy picking stuff out, wrapping it, and keeping it secret. That is so much fun! Yet in the hustle and bustle of things, I think we all can tend to forget someone on our "shopping list." After all, whose birthday are we supposed to be celebrating? We don't, at least intentionally, forget our friends; therefore, how can we forget our Heavenly Father, the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.

Now, I don't want you all to think that I have a problem with presents and that we shouldn't give them to one another. Nor do I want you to think I am belittling you. I just wanted to write about something that has become very dear to my heart for the past two, now three, Christmases.

Mom was the one who started this. She said that we all needed to give a gift to Jesus. I liked the idea. I spent hours trying to figure out what it was that I should give God. Now, I knew he had zero interest in Nintendo, ipods, novels, etc. So, what was I to do? Well, I figured out that He didn't want something material; he wanted something internal. He wanted me to surrender a portion of my life over to Him. So, that first year, I gave him the gift of spending more time in His Word. By the time last Christmas rolled around, I was the one who was all excited to be giving a gift to Jesus. It was pretty much the same as the previous year.

This year, though, I felt him telling me to do something different. At first I wasn't sure, but as I thought about it, I just knew it was the right thing. Do you ever get that feeling? Once I got what to give nailed down, I didn't know how to give it. Again, I spent some time thinking about it. I felt that a poem was the way this year, and that's what I did. So, with my brain going to work, I wrote down what I was going to give. I printed it out on some decorative paper, and wrapped it to be opened on Christmas Day.

Now, it is really difficult keeping true to what I said I would do. I think it will be especially hard this year. But, you know, I believe to know where the key to success lies. If the Lord knows that I really want to remain true to my promise, and I really pray about it, He will give me the strength to leave it in His hands. (However, I think it will STILL be hard!)

Perhaps not giving a gift to the Lord is for everybody, yet I want you to think about it. It doesn't even have to be with family; it can be in the privacy of your own room, just you and God. He knows your heart. I really think He would enjoy hearing from you this Christmas.


(Well, I think this will be my final post until after the holidays. I could surprise you and post, but I think that will be very unlikely. So, may you have a very Merry Christmas. May you have a wonderful day with family and friends as we celebrate this holiday. May the thought of Bethlehem, of the faith of Mary, and the love of Christ, be first in your mind this forthcoming weekend. It will be hard for all of us to remember, but let's try! I love you all, and will be thinking of you. I can't wait to hear of your Christmas Memories! God Bless!!)

White Christmas

Ok, so it isn't Christmas day, but there are two things correct with that statement I just made. The first is that it has been snowing out. There isn't much to speak of, especially compared to the Denver area right now, but hey....it's enough for me. Mom said the roads were slick when she was out, and Dad said they were getting that way. Frankly, it makes me concerned for my piano teacher. Her family were driving to Iowa today, and I know they are going to get involved in this nasty stuff. I hope they didn't leave this morning. Sounds terrible, but I would rather have her family be save than sorry!

The other correct thing with that statement was that I just finished watching White Christmas. That is one of my favorite Christmas movies. (Have I said that before?) I am sure that the tunes will be running through my head for the next few hours. Will it be, The Best Things Happen While Your Dancing, Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep, or will it be the title track, White Christmas? What is ya'lls favorite Christmas movie? (I know we have that forward going around, but some people didn't get it.)

Ok, this was a rather short and mindless post, but I wanted to tell you those two things. I hope to post a longer post tomorrow, but I could be very busy. I promise I will do it to the best of my ability. God bless, and be safe!

It's all Commercial

Well, for those of you that read my last post, you would know that I had something else to talk about, but I didn't right then. I made that decision for space and time sake. Now, I have a whole new entry, and plenty of room for what I wanted to say.

I had mentioned that I had an interesting time on Saturday. Dad and I were out and about in the Treasure Valley, finishing up the little bit of Christmas shopping I had to do. Now, since I was partly getting stuff for Mom, I couldn't go with her; it had to be Dad time. (Not that that is a bad thing! I love my dad!) Anyway, I did get mostly everything, but that's not what I wanted to talk about.

Does anyone get the feeling that Christmas is no longer about the Lord and His Coming to earth in the form of a baby? I mean, you can that impression as you look at people's houses. You see reindeer and Santa and lots of lights. You might see a Nativity once in a blue moon, yet it could be in a house with Santa. It's all backwards to me. Sure, my family every now and then watches Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and we laugh. But, that's not what Christmas is all about. However, I believe if an alien dropped in from outer space and you asked what the holiday was about, I don't think he would say Jesus.

Well, I was really confronted with this fact on Saturday. You watch people go to and fro, waiting in line with several high-ticket items. Lines are sooo long, and usually the people in them are grumpy, rude, or just checking things off their list. No one says, "Merry Christmas. Have a great day." Cars push and shove, not letting people get in traffic or make a turn. All of these things I had to deal with in one from or another. It was sad, really. I tried to spread cheer into people's hearts, but by the end of the day, I was emotionally wiped. I had had enough of dealing with the crowds and the materialistic society in which I live.

If you are familiar with the Steven Curtis Chapman song, "Christmas is All in the Heart," you know that the bridge goes: "No it's not in the snow that may or may not fall, and it's not in the gifts beneath the tree. It's in the love Heaven gave that night our Savior came, and that same love can still be found wherever you are....." Well, I don't think that really holds true, despite the fact that I wish it did. I love Christmas, and all that it is supposed to stand for. Yet, it really is getting a distorted view; I don't like it. I guess you could call me a little bit like Charlie Brown, except that I know what Christmas is all about. It's how to deal with all the other "stuff" that I am trying to figure out.

"Now there were in the same country, shepherds keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shown around them, and they were greatly afraid. The angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you great tidings of great joy which shall be to all people. For their is born to you, this day, in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. Suddenly, there was the angel a multitude of heavenly hosts, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, goodwill toward men." ~Luke 2:8-14

"That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."-Linus

An Edition of the ENG Weekend-Recap

Good evening one and all. I am Abigail Johnson, and this is an edition of the ENG Weekend-recap. The Gardners have had a very busy weekend, but are now available to talk about their memories. With me is Ella, the daughter of the family, and she is my guest tonight. Hello, Ella. How are you?

Ella: I am doing very well, Abigail. I hope you are as well.

Abigail: I am great. Are you ready to begin? Ok, let's start with Thursday.

Ella: Well, Mom and Garrity had to go into town, so I stayed home. I am not sure what I did, but once they got home Nikki, our beagle, had a seizure. They aren't the convulsive kind, but they're still terrible. I am so glad Mom got home before they started. I won't deny I was upset that she had them, but God wanted her to, and it's up to him. In the evening, we went to Pastor Jeff's house for chili and It's A Wonderful Life. Mom supplied the yummy chili, and Mrs. E made corn muffins, a salad, and two different pies. We ate far too much. Thankfully, we were able to veg on the couch and watch George Bailey vs. Mr. Potter in the fight for Bedford Falls. We heard it on their new stereo system, and it sounded great. Nikki came over with us, and while she wasn't allowed in the house, we checked on her while she hung out in the garage. Our family departed the E.'s house around midnight!!! That was probably a bit longer than we should have, but it was great fun!

Abigail: It sounds like you did have a great time. I bet you are so happy that the Lord led you to Fellowship Baptist Church! You spend a lot of time with your pastors or some member of the congregation.

Ella: Yeah...It's funny, actually. I never would have dreamed this would be the case, but it is!

Abigail: So, what about Friday, the start of the weekend.

Ella: I did school. Not much to say there, except that I got more of my Ronald Reagan research done. There's still alot to do, but I am making progress. That night, our family decided to spend time together as a family, instead of Garrity and I going to the youth party at church. (We don't have a youth group, but we do things about once a month.) So, our family went to a living nativity. We did something of the sort when we lived in Florida. It was a fond memory that we all have. Anyway, when we heard there was something like it, we all wanted to go. It was a nice evening. It only took about 20 minutes, and it was on a smaller scale, but it was nice. The story was very well done, and it served as a reminder of the real reason we celebrate Christmas. Christ came!!!

Abigail: Is there anything particular that jumps out at you that you want to tell us about?

Ella: Well, as we were waiting to start, a man in a costume came up to me. He asked where I was traveling from, and I told him. Next, he asked how I got here. I started to think about an answer that would be something like Bible times. So, I said that I came on a four-wheeled machine. That was a dumb thing, because I bet they didn't know what a machine was. The guy then was like, "What's a machine?" Dad got involved, and he and I both replied, "It's like the speed of 450 horses!!! :-) The guy then made a point to tell the Romans that we were rich people. Needless to say, our family got a laugh. (And no, our truck isn't 459 horsepower:-)

Abigail: (giggling...:-) That sounds very funny. It's cool that you were able to play around with the guy. That makes things fun. So, I believe Saturday comes next.

Ella: I had an agenda for Saturday. I needed to go shopping. I had most of the things I needed for family and friends, excepting a few odds and ends. So, I asked Dad to take me. I love Dad time, and also, Mom couldn't be there. Christmastime is a secretive time. Anyway, Dad wanted to leave early, so I was ready about 8:50. Now I know that might not appear early, but I do like sleeping in on the weekends. Well, I had hoped to be back home relatively soon, but that didn't happen! I was gone until 4:30, and I felt emotionally wiped afterwards.

Abigail: Oh, why?

Ella: Not to be disrespectful, Abigail, but I was intending to talk about just that in a later conversation. I hope you don't mind.

Abigail: Not at all.....just so long as it is not with a rival.

Ella: It's not at all. Despite the issues I had, I got mostly everything.

Abigail: That's a good thing. I still have my shopping to do, but enough of that. Was that all you did Saturday?

Ella: No, it wasn't. Our family watches movies every Saturday. This week, as well as next, we watched Christmas movies. We watched a brand new one called, Christmas Child. It was very good, as well as decent. (I never recommend negative things.) Our family intends to buy it after the holidays. Then, we viewed The Christmas Box. That is one of my favorite Christmas movies. So, it was a good movie night.

Abigail: Well, this weekend sounds great. We are almost out of time, but fill us in a little bit about Sunday.

Ella: Ok, I will try to go quickly. Sunday is one of the best days of the week, since we love our church so much. I worked upstairs with the children, and they were great. We did a puppet show; I think that was the highlight. After service, I spent the day with Brianne and her family. They taught me to play pinochle. I wasn't too good, but with practice..... Brianne and I did beat her parents, but they partly helped me! :-) So, that's the end, or at least, that's what I will try to do.

Abigail: Thanks, Ella, for taking time to tell us. We look forward to your discussion on your shopping experience. Well, this has been an edition of ENG Weekend-Recap. I am Abigail Johnson, and to all of you, good night!

The Other Conversation Starter

I had some spare time on the computer, but I wasn't overly sure what to write about. I intend to do a weekend re-cap on Monday, yet I want to write now. So, as I pondered a few minutes on the computer on what to do, I thought to write this.

As I mentioned before, I had wanted to have two different conversation starters at my party last Saturday. Time just got away, and as I think about it now, I think I should have done this one first. It is the more important of the two I had planned. Oh well. Perhaps the Lord wants me to do it with ya'll, instead. Who am I to know his plans?!

So, here is the question: What part of the Christmas Story really jumps out at you? Is it something that makes an impression every year, or are you one of those who find something new upon each new reading? Well, for me, this is really the first year that I have given it some serious thought. The part that got me was Mary and her willingness to carry the Lord.

I will explain why I think this way. According to research and assumption, Mary was a young woman of fifteen or sixteen. She was betrothed. (That would be a scary thought if we did it that way now. I would be either betrothed myself, or considered an old maid!) She probably had her life planned out. She would marry Joseph, have many children, and live happily ever after. Well, that did happen, but there was a curveball thrown at her. (I don't think that is the right word.) God chose her, of all the young women of the world, to carry His son, who would save the people from their sins. Could you imagine if the Lord asked that of you? What would your reaction be? Mary's was one of submission and love. "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said....My soul glorifies the Lord, and my soul rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me-holy is his name." Would you use words like this? I would like to think I would, but I don't know.

Mary, though she was undoubtedly thrilled with the thought of bearing the Messiah, suffered alot of grief for it. She ran the risk of being stoned, because naturally, everyone would think that she had betrayed Joseph. Her friends probably abandoned her, and who knows what her parents thought? Yet, I don't think that mattered to her. I never read that Mary was upset with the Lord's plan. She had amazing faith. She believed that He would do what He said, and that He would not abandoned her in her darkest hours. What a woman she was! If you ponder it, Mary did get everything she had planned. She wed Joseph, had many children, including The Child, and while she might not have lived happily ever after like "Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella," Mary goes down in history as a woman who followed God's call for her life, no major questions asked.

So, that is what I was impressed with this year. What in the Christmas story speaks to you? Tell me about it! And have a fantastic weekend!

Using Words

I know that I just posted yesterday, and some of you may not have even seen the pictures. Go ahead, stop reading, and view them. Then, you are more than able to read what I have written. I just am unable to have pictures suffice for a post. It's not in me. I love to use words. I can express myself far better that way. I know the old adage that says, "Pictures are worth a thousand words." If I was to go by that, I would have to write fifteen thousand words now!!! I promise ya'll I won't do that :-) However, I want to give a first-hand account of the party through my own eyes, and not that of a camera's shutter.

Well, as I had posted previously, I had done a considerable amount of the work already. That was a good thing, since Mom and I had a lot to do on Saturday. In fact, though I had guests arriving at 11:30, I helped Mom in the kitchen for a hour. I didn't want to leave her with all of the work. She had been kind enough to let me have the party anyway. So, that's the beginning part.

I had guests arriving at all different times, so I had to figure our a schedule. I am not that kind of person, but you have to do what you have to do. Well, when Hannah and Melinda got there, I was able to really get started. I had everyone go downstairs and I read, Annika's Secret Wish. After the story, I used the illustration of how the almond was special then, it was a golden peanut butter cup at my part. So, everyone picked a bag and looked in. I knew it was down to the last two, since those bags had been tied with red ribbon. Hannah had it, thus earning the title "Queen for the Day." She was so surprised, and she was bestowed with a lovely music box that Dad and Garrity had made. (I am so indebted to my mom for giving me the ideas of the book and box. Where would I be without her? :-)

We went back upstairs for lunch, and Hannah was served first. The first course was fruit salad, followed by four different tea sandwiches, veggies and dip, and scones with cream. We did eat alot, probably more than seven young ladies should have, but most of us hadn't eaten breakfast. Despite our appetites, we did eat with proper manners. I had decided that a conversation as we ate was to say what our favorite Christmas memory was. And you know, I am pleased with what everybody said. We all talked about the times we had with family, whether it was waiting downstairs until Mom and Dad were set upstairs, or having soup with many aunts, uncles and cousins, or going to a nice restaurant followed by looking at Christmas lights. No one was like, "Yeah...the best year was when we got this present....." I think normally you have a great deal of that. I intended to have another conversation starter, but time got away from me. (I think I will post it and get ya'lls response to it. As well as your thoughts.)

My friend, Ivy, showed up later, but I was so glad she was able to come anyway. We spent the next hour or two playing games. I finally decided on Red Handed, Finish Lines, Taboo, Scrabble, Phase 10, and Scattergories. If you don't know some of those titles, don't worry? Most of the others didn't either, so I had to explain. Thankfully, everybody caught on fast. I had it where four people where at one station and four at another. After ten minutes, you had to draw a new number, and then move to that spot. It was a lot of fun, even it got a bit confusing as to what chair number was where at times. We had the gift exchange, and those are always fun. Thankfully, no one brought junk, and I had set a $5 limit. Most people stuck with what they had except once. Melinda picked a gift and it was yarn. She is a knitter big time, so naturally, she loved it. Well, Grace stole it from her, who is getting into knitting. Ivy stole it from Grace, and then Hannah, who had the last pick stole it for the final time. It was what she brought!!!! We all got laughs out of that one! We played a little bit of Christmas Carol Chrades and then had cookies and more tea. (I wanted Ivy to have something, since she had't been able to dine with us.)

That was the jist of the day, and I loved it. I had asked people, in keeping with the season, to bring canned food for the foods bank, and most did. (Thanks girls!) As I look back, I have fond memories. How the Lord will bless these friendships, or perhaps remove them, I don't know, and I leave it up to him. Sure, I'd love to say in five years, "I am still friends with most of them," but that's, most likely, wishful thinking. The Lord knows what's best, and that is enough. (I say that now, but I bet I will question that at times. ;-) However, the memories I have of the past weekend are enough for now. I do wish some of you lived here, because I did feel that some faces were missing.

Well, I bet this far too long for you, so I will close. I hope you all felt like you were there through my glimpses back. It was nice recalling them with you. May you be having a blessed week, resting in the knowledge that Jesus is the Reason we celebrate this Season!

The Christmas Party

Well, here are the pictures from the party. I hope you all enjoy them. I wish I could post in words, but we need to do our advent book, and then it's bedtime. So, I will do way more tomorrow. I will also fix the links again. Good-bye until it be morrow!

The table setting with my homemade place cards.

The nice napkins that Dad helped me do. I couldn't figure them out on my own.

The Sandwiches and veggies. This was a side view.


Fruitcake scones and vanilla cream. Yummy!

I think it's a nice spread. Garrett bought the flower for me, though I asked him to:-)

The Guests and Games 1

I think we were talking about our Chirstmas memories

Another view. Now Grace has the teacup.

I have the teacup to my mouth, then there's Hannah, Angela, Melinda, Brianne

More of the girls playing Red Handed

The Guests and Games 2

Ivy beginning her charade.

Christmas Carol Charades again. We are still trying to figure our Ivy's. It was The First Noel. I don't think we would have ever gotten that.

We are having the gift exchange. Now that was a funny time! One particular present was stolen three times, and then, Hannah wound up with it. She brought it!


Here are Christina, Brianne, and Grace playing Red Handed.



Ok, here is Ivy, Angela, me, and Hannah playing Phase 10.

Two New Links

I need to go eat lunch, but I wanted you to know that I have put two additional links on my sidebar. (So, there is nothing uplifting in this post today. I will talk about my party on either Sunday or Monday.) I just wanted to explain the magazine links, and let you know that they are decent.

The first is Inkblots Magazine. A friend of mine puts it out, and I heartily enjoyed it. I was able to read all of the issues, and then I have subscribed. It is a literary magazine, so it focuses on either a praticular author, book, or theme. The upcoming one is all about Much Ado About Nothing. I am not a Shakspeare fan, but maybe I will change my tune after I read this edition. When movie depictions of the book are talked about, there is warning if there are negative parts in them. Overall, I have loved this magazine. Past issues have been Literary Heroes and Heroines, Anne of Green Gables, Wives and Daughters, Lord of the Rings, Narnia, etc.

The other is HopeChest Magazine. If you desire an uplifting magazine that encourages us in godly womanhood and things like that, this is the magazine for you. It has been of constant encouragement for me. I always have one or two particular articles that really touch and minister to me when I most need it. I really encourage you to even get a sample of it, though the editors are bad at responding to you right away. I know it would help you in your Walk with the Lord as it has with mine.

So, just wanted you all to know these things. Have a splendid day. I hope you are all doing well. Now, I had better go eat lunch, and then, Ronald Reagan research awaits!! :-) God bless!

Construction Zone

You are probably wondering what the title of this post means. Well, I just want you all to be forewarned that my blog will be under some revamping the next few days. (Hopefully, everything will be done by tonight!) I wanted some addition stuff on my sidebar, without changing to beta blogger. Well, that's a long involved process. Garrity has been doing it for me, for which I am extremely grateful. So, you will be able to come on every day, or how often you do. It just might looks different every single day. Part of me is missing my blue template, but I will get used to this pretty quickly.

Hope you are all doing very well. I am keeping busy. I was in the kitchen for about 3 1/2 hours today working on stuff for my Christmas party on Saturday. I have baby-sitting Friday evening, and then........You get the idea. I am so thankful that I did not have to go anywhere today. I like being able to stay home and veg. Mom is instilling that in me, and it's a good thing to know.

Well, that's all I have time for. I am going to let Garrity get back to work. I'll be on here very soon. Have a wonderful first weekend of December. (Can you believe that?!) I hope you are seeing the Lord in amazing ways today!

Pictures in a Second Installment

I so apologize for this. Until I know how to post more than five pictures, I have to have additional posts. Make sure you read what is after this, and probably before. (If anyone has tips for me, I would be very appreciative.)



Ta-da!!!! The finished project. it looks like I cut off the top, which I did, but there isn't much to see. The tree is touching the ceiling, so the angel was unable to go up there....

Instead, it got to go in my room. I have a little tree of my own, and I didn't want to see the angel go back in the box, so I asked if she could go on mine. Mom and Dad let me. Isn't she pretty?

My little tree that looks bare. Right now, it has ornaments and the angel but I have to get a better string of lights. I didn't take a picture of what it looks like now, but that's ok.

A picture of Juliet that I took as I was decorating my room with gold garland over the window, putting up the tree, and using artificial poinsettias. If she resembles Melody to you, she kind of does.


Ok, this isn't the cutest picture of Nikki. It's fuzzy and dark. I just wanted to show you the reindeer antlers we put on her. (No, we don't do the Santa thing; we just have these.) Nikki can't stand them on her. I was fortunate to get a picture!!!

Deck the Halls, Walls, Trees.....What Else?!

I hope you all are having a fabulous start to December. I know I am. This is always the time of year when we all get really busy with parties, various baby-sitting jobs, caroling, advent stories, and make and buying presents or family and friends. I have either done these things, or I am going to do them. Yet I want to say that I hope we don't lose sight of the True Meaning of Christmas. That happens far too much these days. Christmas has become not a holiday of giving, as God gave His son, Jesus, to us, but now, it's a gimme gimme holiday. Sure, I look forward to the gifts I will receive, but I like giving ones away infinitely better. In a future post, I am going to talk about the best gift that we can give. (Sorry, I must leave you in suspense of a few days...or a week or two:-)

I have intended to post pictures of my family decorating the house for Christmas. We did it on Saturday, and it really didn't take that long at all. We haven't done anything outside yet, and we never do much. However, we have done alot on the inside, and I wanted to show that to all of you. So, enjoy!!!

Yes, we are the people who use an artificial tree. We have used real ones in the past, but Mom thinks she is allergic to pine. We "bought" this tree two years ago, and it was a gift from God. You can read the family blog to know the story. Anyway, here is dad getting the pieces out of the box!

Boxes of garland, table decorations, and ornaments. Doing the garland was my job. Sorry I don't have a picture!

Where are we going to put things?!

Here is the tree all set up, but it's looking kind of bare, wouldn't you agree?

Looking better. Dad is stringing on the lights. The idea was to go all red, but we didn't have enough, so we had to do multi-colored as well.

Let it Snow, Let it Snow

Well, we did have more snow. (Enough to have footprint marks and cover the road.) It was sooo nice. I love when everything is under a mantle of white. However, I don't like the ice part that goes along with it. We were sliding last night as we picked up "Juliet," Dad had some issues getting to work, and Garrity said he and Nikki were slipping and sliding. Eww! I am not sure if more snow is in the forecast, but I have no objection is there is. Yet, let me correct that. Last night, we watched two Christmasy Little House on the Prairie episodes. One is when the entire Ingalls family has a blizzard and gets snowed in. I don't want that much!! (Though Mom does:-)

Now what?!

Well, guys, I don't have time to post something long or meaningful today. (Though I intend to post pictures of our house getting decked out for Christmas this weekend.) We are leaving very shortly to go pick up my bird. In fact, I think we are leaving about now! :-) However, I still don't have a name. I don't want to be calling it "Birdy" for very long, but I don't know what to choose. I think I am between Chloe, Juliet, Harmony, or........You can see how undecided I am. Usually I am not this way; I know what I want to do, o what I should do, and I do it. In this case, I am going against the norm. Oh, I wish it were easy. Too bad the bird can't say, "This is what I want my name to be, and that's the end of it." Haha. I do know this: Since "it" is coming home, I will undoubtedly have to name it something. It WILL have a name by this weekend, especially if my family has anything to do with it. I am so relying on them to help me make up my mind. What would we do without our parents, or even our brothers?!

Winter Wonderland!!!

Ok, I bet you're looking at the picture, and you're thinking, "Is Ella nuts?! Since when is that little dusting of snow considered 'Winter Wonderland?' You can't make 'Parson Brown' out of that?" Well, ya'll, this little dusting is the Treasure Valley's first snowfall. We don't get much; nowhere in comparison to Buffalo. :-) Still, it was exciting to walk downstairs and see a tiny speck of whiteness. I am not sure if we're supposed to get any more, but I do know we will be having cold temperatures. (I think Wednesday is a high of 29 degrees! Brrrr!!!!) Anyway, I just wanted you all to see a picture....

I also need your help...BIG TIME!!! The bird in the front, the pretty yellow one, is my new bird. She is doing very well with weaning and everything that the plan is to bring her home this weekend. Now, I don't need your help with that, but I need a name. I don't quite know what to choose, and Mom and Dad are telling me to decide. So, I figured I'd ask. Please give me advice. There is one thing you need to know: I want a name that is either literary, musical, or something regal/monarch like. Does that make sense? I need ideas really soon, and I am relying on ya'll to help me!!!

Feel Free

I forgot to mention this earlier, so PLEASE make sure to read my other posts!!!! I just wanted you to know that our family has started a blog. If you ever want to read what has gone on in our lives, either through the eyes of Mom, or occasionally myself, feel free to stop by. The address is on my side bar. However, as of right now, you are not able to comment. We might change that in the future, but don't let that stop you. We'd love for you to keep tabs on us, as we are "Celebrating our Joys."

Thanksgiving Through Words

I hope your Thanksgiving day, like these chrysanthemums, was full of beauty, color, and closeness. I know you saw my day with pictures, but being a word person, I had to write a tiny bit about it!

The day started out like I anticipated it would. We ate breakfast, which was the traditional Dutch Boy pancake. (Does your family have those kind of dishes that are just synonymous with the holiday? Well, this is ours.) As we ate breakfast, we all talked about what we were most thankful for on this day. We all had pretty much the same, but we worded it differently. It was a pleasant meal. After we finished, Garrity and I went downstairs and watched the Macy's Parade and the National Dog Show. Again, something that goes with Thanksgiving. I don't know if I had a favorite float, but I do know that I didn't like the Radio City Rockettes. Yeah, their kicks are impressive, but I don't like the outfits! I was also bummed about the dog show outcome. We are beagle fans, and it didn't win in its group. Then, to make things worse, a toy poodle won Best in Show!!! Beagles trump poodles any day!! (Am I biased or what?)

We left for the D.'s house around 2 o'clock. The men watched football or played computer games while we girls talked and ate appetizers. Around five, we sat down to eat. Our meal consisted of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, a broccoli casserole, green salad, jello salad, corn pudding, and rolls. No wonder everyone was so full! We totally pigged out, but that was before dessert,. Our choices were between pumpkin, caramel apple, or chocolate pecan pie. I had pumpkin and apple, along with a cup of green tea.

The adults spent time talking, and we kids went upstairs. the boys went back to playing computer, while Grace and I played video games with the younger boys. Yes, I did play video games. I don't own a gamecum, xbox, nintendo, or anything like that, so when I play, it's a treat. We played a snowboarding game. I stunk at first, but by the end, I got first! I was excited. Now all I have to do is beat Shifty someday, and hopefully, I will!

We spent the remainder of the evening playing Apples to Apples. If you haven't played that game before, you should. It is a whole lot of fun. Even though I wound up with three card, no easy feat with that large of a crown, Mr. S won the needed seven . Oh, well. We had a great time, complete with much laughing. The S.'s left, as did Kevin, the college guy. We G's stayed to help clean up, so it wasn't until 11:30 when we got home. (I slept in until 10 this morning! I needed my rest!)

That was my Thanksgiving day. I hope you can tell that I had a great day, because I did. I thought of you all; I count you among my blessings. I can't wait to hear how your days went!

Thanksgiving Through Pictures Part 2

(I detest when pictures don't go in the order you want them to:-() This is Dad while we were playing Apples to Apples. Does he look like he's enjoying himself? I think he was just full or something.

It was Ben's turn to be the judge. I think Billy was giving him advice on which card to pick. Mr. S. was helping him with the words.

The kitchen..... I think messiness goes with the territory of Thanksgiving. "Thankfully," when we departed at 11:15 p.m., the kitchen looked much better! Never fear, all of the bottles are empty sparkling cider ones. No alcohol was present.

I said that boys are always hungry. It's about 10 o'clock, and the guys are eating more pie. I don't know how many pieces their finished total was. From the left, you've got Garrity, Shifty, Ethan, and Tom.

I don't know who the judge was at this point. All I know is that we were playing a game, and having a great time. From the far left, it's Ben, Mr. S., Mrs. S., Mrs. D., Mr. D., and Grace.

Thanksgiving Through Pictures

Mrs. D. is lighting the candles....we are just about to eat. Isn't the table pretty?

Ok, here is one end of the table. By the look of everyone's plates, we must have been done with dinner. Mom is on the left. Mr. D. is in the yellow shirt; Mr. S. is next to him.

Boys are always hungry. Here are Tom and Ben D. getting more to eat. Aren't they full?

Sorry this picture is blurry. It is just another pic to show how long the table was. Mrs. D. is next to Mom, and I am next to her.

Thanksgiving Thoughts

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. As I anticipate being super busy, I wanted to get a post done today. I wanted to get my thoughts on this holiday out, so you all know what is going on in my head. I want to start out by saying that I hope you all have a very blessed day, surrounded by family and friends, and resting in the knowledge of God's love for you. As I have previously stated, or so I think, our family is headed for the D.'s house. There is going to be sixteen of us...8 D's, 4 G's, (that's us) 3 S's (They're a new family, just arrived from Wyoming) and 1 college guy from church. So, it's a houseful, but I know we will have a grand time, and that we'll eat far too much food. Personally, I am looking forward to the mashed potatoes and green bean casserole. Turkey's great, but I really like the side dishes. Ok....enough with the food.....on to what I really wanted to say.

There is much I have to be thankful for this year. I have been extremely blessed...much more than I deserve. But, praise the Lord, things are not based upon my worthiness. I praise Him this day for my family. Where would I be without them?! My parents are the ones who have shaped me into who I am. They are there for me all the time; I can always talk to them when I need it. They are my cheerleaders, my biggest fans, and yet, they're my coaches too:-)

I am also thankful for Garrett. (Yes, I admit it:-) He keeps our family light and always on the edge. He is the resident comedian in our house, and it just wouldn't be the same without him. I mean, when he is gone for a day, and there's no one joking at the table, you miss it.

I am so thankful for my house and food. I never expected that I would live in a house that I loved so much. If you knew the whole story, you would understand why I am like this. Our house is like a dream house, and we didn't have to build it ourselves. The orchard in the backyard was a bonus. And I am thankful for the bountiful harvest we got this year. (Though I am also thankful that it is over for the winter;-)

My new church is an amazing blessing. I say that about every week, but I am so thankful for it. It has increased my family by several aunts, uncles, and cousins. As in the case with the house, our church was one that I never expected to get. When we left our previous church, I anticipated going to a church amost the exact same. But, the Lord landed us at Fellowship, and it is the best thing that could have happened to us. I am so thankful!

I am so glad to live in the state of Idaho. Not only is it beautiful in a deserty sort of way :-) It is still, despite a California influx, a Republican state, and I am so glad it is. (I could live in Massachusetts.) My prayer is that it will stay that way. I have lived in a few states, but I am like living West of the Mississippi. I am a Southern Belle, but I do have a tiny bit of cowgirl, and I like it!

I said this at election time, but I am so thankful to live in the United States in America. I am glad to live in a country that still allows the freedom to worship the Lord, even though it has basically left the government cycles. Many nations do not have this ability, nor the abililty to cast a ballot or choose their own occupation. I pray that fifty years from now, I will still be able to say this.

I am thankful for my friends. You all, and the few that do not read my blog, have been there for me. You've joked with me and comforted me, and that means alot. I am not able to know if you all will be friends "forever," but I do know that no matter how far apart we are, we will be together in Heaven "forever." You know the Michael W. Smith song, "And a friend is a friend forever, if the Lord is the Lord of them."

Lastly, and most importantly, I am thankful for the Lord. He is the ultimate person who has shaped me into who I am. He is taking me through the Refiner's Fire, but He's there every step of the way. I am so thankful for the gift of salvation that He bestowed on me. I praise Him that I have the knowledge of an eternal life in Heaven after death. I am thankful that He has brought trials in my life (Did I just say that?!) I would not have my life be without them. They bring me ever closer to himself...and I praise him for that.

Well, I know I could have this post run on much long, but I will stop for now. I hope you have gotten a glimpse into my heart, despite the ramblings on. I pray that you have much to be thankful for, and that you have a wonderful day tomorrow. May God blessings be upon you and yours.

He Raised Me Up!

"When I was down, and all my soul so weary

When troubles came, and my heart burdened me

I was still, and waited in the silence

Until you came, and said You were with me~

"You raised me up, so I could stand on mountains

You raised me up to walk on stormy seas

I am strong...when I am on your shoulder

You raised me up to more than I could be."

I wanted to post this picture and this chorus of Josh Groban's hit song. It was so true for me this past week. Many thanks to those of you who were praying for me when I needed it the most. No, nothing Earth shattering happened, but I still had a rough Monday. I wanted to update you all, and let you know that I am soooo much better now!!! In fact, unless I focus on the hurt that was done unto me, I am not sad at all. I can see that the Lord has something infinitely better in store for me. What that is, I have no idea. But, I am looking forward to the new adventure.

Also, I know that these trials that I never seem to get away from develop my character. They shape me into the person that He has for me to be. Therefore, I wouldn't trade any of my problems for all of the acceptance and easiness in the world. My ultimate goal in life is to grow in Christ's likeness and reflect Him to the world. How can I do that unless I have struggles? I can't. Life was never meant to be all fun and games. It wasn't for Christ; then, it definitely shouldn't be for me. Christ didn't give into peer pressure; He always stood for Truth, and that is a lesson I am learning and hopefully, will be able to take into my life.

No, I wouldn't ask for difficulties in relationships. However, I always see the Lord high and lifted up in the midst of them. Also, they draw me ever closer to Him. "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed." ~I Peter 4:12-13~

Something Short

I have no time to post what I wanted to. I hope you all enjoy the pictures that I fianlly got of the Missions Conference. They aren't in the right order, but that's ok. I hope you are all having a great day, whith the Lord being your only source of strength. I can say that today!!! It has been rough this afternoon, but God is with me now. I read this quote, "Every day, even in hardships in trials, we are growing towards God." That is true in my case. He is shaping me into the person he has for me to be!

Here are the Pics....Finally!

Dad surrounded by a mob of adoring fans:-) Just kidding. They are wanting to turn in their chips for frosty coupons

The pinata is broken; bring on the candy!

The puppet show that I did. I was the black haired one.

Pastor Jeff taking a whack at the thing

Dad's lovely pinata before it got demolished

Interesting Asian arragement.

Pastor Ron Allen and our own Pastor Jeff

On end of the Hispanic table. This end was the least nice looking

The grub, or what little there was at the time, with my lovely friends, Brianne and Grace. I don't know where I was. Probably helping Mom.

Thank Goodness!

I believe prayers were working here last night and into this morning. Here in Idaho, not all of the precints are in, but I will update you on what I know so far. I must admit, I didn't know what to expect. We have had so many people moving here, I was anticipating liberal takeover.

Our gubnatorial race is not yet fully known, that is because the democrat, Mr. Jerry Brady, has not conceded. However, it is reported that C.L. "Butch" Otter, our choice, will be elected. He does have a substantial lead, but how can one make predictions when no one has given in to the opponent? That was something Mom and I were trying to figure out all night.

I am pleased to say that the democrat, Mr. Larry Grant, has conceded to Mr. Bill Sali. I was guilty of a lack of faith, for I really didn't expect him to win. He is sooo conservative. How thankful I am that God's ways and thoughts are higher than mine. Mr. Sali will have an uphill battle now in the U.S. House of Representatives, but I pray that the Lord would let him do much good.

Our marriage amendment also passed with 65% of the vote. I would have liked a tiny bit higher, (Tennessee passed the same resolution with 81% of the vote, but hey, it's the bible belt!) Anyway, I a, pleased to say that I know live in a state that only considers marriage to be between one man and one woman.

Our Lieutenant Governor is expected to be a republican, Mr. Jim Risch, as well. The democrats might have picked up a few seats in the local House, but I heard on the news that Idaho still has the most conservative Congress in the entire U.S. I like that!

However, I know things didn't go well in some of your states, and in the Nation, either. I was glued to NBC until 2:30 a.m., so I ought to know:-) We know have to contend with a Democratic control of the House and possibly of the Senate, that one is still too close to call. We now have Nancy Pelosi in charge, and we still have to contend with Senators Hilary Rodham Clinton and Ted Kennedy. Our nation is a precarious position now; our prayers can not cease. I guess I have learned that when things seem impossible, God can make it possible!! It seems like terrible things will happen, but we can't really know that!

That is all I have for now. Thanks for your prayers regarding this. Ya'll will still be in mine. However, please add my family in your prayers. Mom, Garrity, and I are feeling puny. We aren't doing school, though I think watching tv could go as Living History and Political Science:-) Sore throats, sinus pressure, stuffy heads, it's all here..... I intend to spend the day taking it easy, and also watching whatever new things get decided. I love the game of politics, but I am saying that when, at least in my state, we were the victors. I could be singing a new tune in 2008. (Hopefully, and with prayer, we'll get control of Congress back, and that we'll keep the highest job in the land!)Yet, it is in the Lord's hands.

Guess What's Tomorrow?

If you guess it's Tuesday, you score 25%. If you said the D's, you score 50% (not to mention knowing my schedule very well;-) If you said piano lesson, it's 75% for you. However, if you said election day, you got 100%!

You might find it odd that I, as a teenager who can't vote, is talking about a subject like this. Well, that's because I feel so strongly about it. I wish that tomorrow, I would be able to show voter's registration and cast my ballot. There are too many people, including adults, who do not take this privilege we have as Americans seriously. There are people in other nations who would die to have this freedom. I believe that it is a God-given right, and we should use it accordingly. Besides, elections are soooo important!! They can decide which path the U.S.A. will take.

My family is Conservative, and that's how we vote. That said, I don't like the thought of Republicans losing the majority in the House and Senate. Democrats, while I am sure there are a few good ones, give me the creeps. Their policies and social agendas do not line up with my family's and mine at all. What do I mean by that? Well, in a nutshell, we are for anything that the Lord says is good and against anything that He says is bad. (Abortion, gay marriage, stuff like that.)

I really have been praying alot lately for godly men and women who desire Christ and the things of Him would be elected. I know that if Bill Sali, a man who is running for Congress here in Idaho, gets elected, that will be amazing. He is a Christian, a home schooling father, etc. However, all you hear is the liberal news media, saying how the GOP is doomed and this that and the other. I try not to listen, but it is such a loud voice. I only pray they are wrong, like they were regarding the presidential election in 2004.

Sometimes, I wish I was able to run for public office. However, as a godly woman, I know I can't. A woman is not to be over a man, and I believe that includes the government. I know what issues would matter most to me. Thing like ridding this nation of abortion and gay marriage, securing the borders, making English the official language, (Don't think me a racist, for I am definitely not) and getting this nation back on the path that the Founding Fathers wanted it to be, as one nation UNDER GOD! However, my vote will have to be enough.

Our family has a tradition of staying up super late and watching election returns come in on NBC. Don's ask me why, especially when I said that I dislike the liberal news. It's just something we have done ever since 2000. Boy, was I glued to the tv then!

So, how is this post applicable to us who can't vote? Well, I think it starts by voting when we can. Personally, I am looking forward to casting my first ballot in the primaries of 2008. Yet, for now, I think it goes deeper than that. We need to be praying about elections, asking the Lord to let good people get into office and godly propostions/laws get passed. This is so important, and something we can do now. Who knows, perhaps our small voice is ultimately making a big difference. Doesn't it say when two or more are gathered together in My name, I will hear you? Doesn't it also say that when people cry out to God, he will heal their land? Just something to think about as a very important day is fast approaching. May things in your state go well tomorrow. The entire nation will be surrounded in my prayers; I hope the same can be said of yours!

I know you all want pictures, but I don't have any!!!!!!!! I thought I did, but I don't. I didn't take any at the BananaRama, and while I did bring the camera to the Missions Conference, Garrity told me to have someone else take them. So, hopefully, he will send my brother pics, who, in turn, will send them to me, and then I will post them. So, until then, you will have to wait!

The missions conference was very good. I enjoyed the guest speaker, Pastor Ron Allen, a lot. He was very good and extremely passionate about world wide evangelism. His talks really made me think...Do I pray adequately for my missionaries? Also, I really was thinking that I, one day, would love to go on a missions trip somewhere. I feel that since I am blessed here in this country, I should go and bless someone else in turn. Anyway, that was one of the thoughts that was impressed upon me.

Hosting the Hispanic table was a whole lot of fun, though a little on the chaotic side. There was plenty of food. I made flan, and it was fabulous. Normally I don't take something that I have never tried before, but I did this time. Scary, isn't it? At any rate, it was yummy! We made a pumpkin pinata, and the kids loved breaking it. Dad had Pasotr Jeff swing at it, and boy, that was a sight to see:-) We stayed a long time, but when you're with family, that doesn't matter.

Life is pretty much normal at my house. I will admit, we were faithful watchers of the World Series this past week, though. Usually, the tv doesn't come on but once or twice during the week. Anyway, we were super excited that the Cardinals won!!!! That was an exciting series. If you want the full run down, go to Garrity's blog. I won't deny that I jumped a little when vthe fibal out was recorded.

Tomorrow, I have my group with the girls. I hope it will go better. I think the plan is to celebrate Ivy's birthday, and then get a schedule set for Secret Keeper. I bought my book, and I am looking forward to the study. I also bought the devotional, and I believe that will be a good addition to personal use. I plan on post some of the things that the Lord will teach me through it. No, I don't dress immodestly, but still, I assume you might want a thought or two.

Well, dinner is almost done, so I have to leave. I didn't get to say all I wanted, but I was also talking to Dad on the phone at the same time. Anyway, my apologizes if this post sounded trite. I didn't intend for it to be. Hope you are having a great week, and a great time in the Lord. I will post again very soon, or so I hope! You are all in my prayers!!

Ok, something short. I wanted to thank you all for the nice comments and prayers that you all gave me over the loss of Melody. Your friendship means alot! She has been gone one week now, and it still hurts a little, but I am doing much better. On the bird front, I won't be getting one for quite a while. The process is too long involved to get into right now, but I will let you know when I get another one, and also its name.

I don't have the pictures uploaded on the computer yet, so I can't post them. The bananarama was great fun. I was on a team with Hannah, Christina and William L., and Shifty's (and Grace's) brother, Billy. Pastor Chris was our driver. We did have to measure some dumb things, like a person between 55 and 65's arm! That was embarrassing. Our team got back to the B.'s house last, but that didn't matter. While waiting on pizza, we played kickball. Girls against boys, and guess which side won?! The girls did!! That was exciting. After two innings, we enjoyed the aforesaid pizza and banana splits. It was a nice afternoon.

Church was great. We had a guest speaker, and I was not able to hear him in the morning service. I was upstairs working in the three to kindergartens' class. I love being up there, but this upcoming Sunday is my last for a month. Then Brianne will take over! Anyway, I did a puppet show, and that was heartily enjoyed by them, and me. Sunday evening had another finger food fellowship. (Baptists must love to eat!) I got to listen to Dean Loftus then, and his talk was very good. I always enjoy guests, but I always look forward to Pastor Jeff!

Nothing much else out of the ordinary is going on. We ate pumpkin shakes on Friday. I am not sure if I mentioned that before. Talk about a slice of pumpkin pie crammed in a glass. You should try it! Other than that, there is nothing exciting, except watching baseball. As I have said, my family is a baseball watching family, yet only in the playoffs. It has been great fun doing that as a family. Now, on a God-honoring blog, I am sure you don't want sports recaps. So I'll just say that the World Series is tied one ot one, and I hope the home team wins tonight. Yes, my family will be watching.

Well, I will stop for now. Sorry about the pics. I will try to get them up soon. Again, thanks for being there, all of you, when I needed some friends last week. The Lord was always there, but so were you, and I am really grateful. I am truly blessed by God to have the family I have and friends such as you! I don't deserve you, but I am thankful for you!

Oh, my dear bird named Melody. (I didn't think posting this would make me cry:-( Read my preceding post to hear my story.

For my blogging audience, I wanted to say that I am alive and well! I have just been very busy. This isn't going to be a long post either, just enough to let you know that I have not skipped the blogging world. I intend to take the digital camera tomorrow to the BananaRama and post pictures afterwards. I think you will all enjoy that.

I have had a rough week this week. First off, my wonderful bird, Melody, died VERY unexpectedly on Tuesday. It was nothing I did; everyone has said that. The lady who I bought her from said that she believed it was something genetic. Melody was always skinny and wouldn't eat anything other than millet. (That is something she isn't supposed to do:-) Anyway, I found her after I got back from piano lessons, and that was not cool. I was in hysterics and blaming myself. However, Dad and I went to the Bird Barn, where we got her, and I will be getting another bird in about six weeks or so. I must admit, I am nervous, but I will just do what I did with Melody, and see what happens.

Next, I had a difficult time with some friends yesterday. One of the girls statred talking negatively about my church, and that bugged me. Fellowship Baptist Church is like my family, and I refuse to listen to my "family" be accused of being judgmental and things like that. I don't want to get into any more details, lest I become a gossip and a grudge holder. Needless to say, that made my week doubly hard. Yet, I was ok with the discussions we had. It made me really stand up for what I believe in, and situations such as these help shape me into the person I want to be. (That is: a girl who doesn't care what the world might think. As long as she remains true to Her God, her parents, and her conscience, that is what is important!)

However, I will be the first to admit that the Lord upheld me and kept me going through it all. All through Melody's death, and the group problems, I felt my God right by me. I saw His hand and His comfort. How faithful He is!!!! He enabled me to not get angry or lose my cool in any of the situations. I was able to turn it all over to Him, and He took care of the rest. I was just listening to Josh Groban sing "You Raise Me Up," and I listened to the words. The Lord raised me to walk on the stormy seas and I am stong when I am on His shoulder. His grace has been sufficient for me this week. How I praise Him for that! I hope it has been for you!

The week hasn't been all bad. We have had alot of family fun watching baseball. Cardinals did win the NLCS, and you should have seen me last night. I was into the game, so much so that I was talking to the tv. I do that alot. For the record, though, I am an Astros fan, but the Red Birds are ok.:-) How I have enjoyed the memory making with my family! They last forever!

Well, that's it for me for the next day or so. You have had a glimpse of my ups and downs this week. I hope you have had more ups than downs, but if not, I hope you were able to see the Lord give you the strength to meet what comes at you, and be able to pass it with His enablement. It is in these situations that, when we get to Heaven, we may hear God say, "Well done, my Good and Faithful Servant!" I can look back and see that the Lord gave me the strength I talked about; I pray you could say the same. I wasn't perfect, but by His grace, I succeeded! Have a great weekend, and I will post soon...

"Starbucks" Cranberry Bliss Bars

For the cake: 1 cup butter, softened; 1 1/4 cup light brown sugar; 3 eggs; 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla; 1 teaspoon ginger; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups flour; 3/4 cup dried cranberries, diced;

6 ounces white chocolate, cut into chucks (or chips)

Frosting: 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 4 teaspoon lemon juice;

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Drizzled icing: 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon milk; 2 teaspoons butter

Topping: 1/4 cup dried cranberries, diced

1. Preheat the oven to 350

2. Make cake by beating butter and brown sugar together with mixer until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, ginger, and salt. Beat well. Mix in flour until smooth. Mix 3/4 cup diced dried cranberries and white chocolate into the batter by hand. Pour batter into greased 13x9 baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly. (Do not fear if the dough is thick and not more liquid like. It will be fine.) Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until cake is golden brown around the edges. Allow cake to cool.

3. Make frosting by combining softened cream cheese, 3 cups powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla in a bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. When the cake has cooled, use a spatula to spread the frosting.

4. Sprinkle 1/4 cup cranberries over the frosting

5. Whisk together 1/2 powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, and butter until smooth. Drizzle icing over the cranberries in a sweeping motion.

6. Allow cake to sit for several hours, then slice the cake length-wise once through the middle. Slice the cake across the width three times, making a total of 8 rectangular slices. Slice each of those 8 slices once diagonally, created 16 triangular slices.

(Note- It doesn't say to put the bars in the fridge, but I did. You keep cream cheese in the fridge, don't you?)

It's Friday, can anyone believe that? I certainly can't. The week has just sped by! It has been a good week though! Let's see...What to say about it?

First, an update on "Wolfie," as my teacher and I have dubbed Mozart. Actually, he has gone pretty well this past week The real test will be next Tuesday; that's when I find out how I am doing:-) I wish I could somehow find an audio link to put on here; that way, you can hear what it is supposed to sound like. I will tell you that it is Sonata in C. Easy key, but not an easy piece!

The Cranberry Bliss Bars were really good! I will have to post the recipe. Maybe I will do that after I am done posting. Anyway, I have to give the recipe to Mrs. E.; she loved them. I was pleased with how they turned out. I hope you would be too.

School is progressing very well too. I am always busy, but at least, I can't be accused of being lazy and doing the bare minimum. I finished Uncle Tom's Cabin, and it was a fabulous book. Now I am reading Harriet Beecher and the Beecher Preachers. It isn't so good. For one thing, it is on the boring side, and second, Harriet is portrayed in this as a discontent woman who wasn't pleased being a wife and mother, even though she knew it to be the best calling. Also, she seems on the feminist side, and that I definitely don't like. Oh, well. I have Across Five Aprils to look forward to next.

The Ronald Reagan report is taking up all of my free reading time. I don't know if you all have ever done this, but it isn't very enjoyable to read a book, knowing that you have to keep your eye open for notes. I much prefer reading a book and getting absolutely engrossed in the characters. I hope I don't appear to be a complainer, for I am really enjoying learning about our foreith president. I am trying to find a copy of his funeral. I was unable to watch it for some reason, but I think it would be good for my report.

This week, I uncovered my notebook that has my 70 page story, and growing, in it. I love writing in it. I get to make up characters the way I want them to be. It is a rather sad story, but it is God honoring. It is about a girl who is homeschooled and lives in a big family. And the book goes through the trials the family faces and how they rely on God and each other to see them through. Sounds odd, doesn't it? Yet, I love it!!! Right now, the girl's brother has proposed to his "girl" right before he leaves to go to Iraq. I know that when I write the good-bye scene, I will bawl, or at least get teary-eyed. I want to encourage you all to try writing your own story. No, mine might never get published, as much as that would be cool. However, it brings enjoyment, and it really stretches your mind and creativity. You explore things you never could imagine!

Tonight, Mom and I are going to the Boise Philharmonic. Unfortunately, there is a guest conductor, and it's a woman! I don't like that idea. I think we are going to the concert earlier than usual to hear some background on the pieces, but I am not sure about that. This week, it is a "You Picked It" Concert. Season ticket holders got to pick some out of a whole bunch of choices. I know Swan Lake is one of them! I will have to let you all know how it was.

Tomorrow, we are probably going to rake leaves and then go to Brianne's house. On the weather, it is absolutely beautiful. (I think my friend, Alice, is experiencing winter right now!) Anyway, I am enjoying all the leaves and the cooler temps. It is wonderful!

Well, I must clean a bathroom and then change for the concert. I am also partailly watching baseball:-0 Surprising, isn't it? Hope you all have a great week. (Oh, please no more comments about being dead and stuff like that. I don't think that is a very God-honoring topic. Sorry Shifty!)

Let's see.. Bible time, check. Piano practice, check. School, check. Dusting, check. Fold laundry, check. Exercise, check. Make some sort of treat, waiting on an ingredient that Dad is buying at the store. Blogging... uh, check! :-)

Well, that's been my day so far. For those of you who care to know, I spent my entire practice time trying to figure out my original composition. I would really appreciate your prayers on this. I am about to go crazy, or maybe I already have! I am thinking the Irish Jig idea is going to be scrapped, and instead, I am going to do something about Springtime. Who is to say yet!

Again, I am loving my school books, except I have gotten to a rather depressing part in Uncle Tom's Cabin. However, I am enjoying it despite this. My Ronald Reagan report is in the note taking stage. I don't have any idea when that will be finished! Yet I am so glad that I chose to do it about him. He's truly an amazing guy, yet I have said that before:-)

I am waiting to make these cranberry bliss bars when Dad gets home. I have a cookbook that are "top secret recipes" from like restaurants, fast food chains, and things like that. (No, it's not the exact recipe, but almost.) These bars are from Starbucks. I have never personally had them, but the recipe sounds really good. It also is pretty fattening, or maybe the word I want is rich. Anyway, I am waiting on some white chocolate that goes in the batter. I plan on taking these to the Ladies' Fellowship tomorrow night, so I have to bake them this evening.

I am sure you all want to hear about my weekend. Saturday was wonderful. We went to the tearoom, and stayed there for over three hours with Grace and Mrs. D. It was a really nice time of fellowship and food. Then, Mom and I made cards, or rather she did. I couldn't figure out what I wanted to do. I wanted to do a different type of card, instead of the ones I usually do, but nothing was coming to me. I did finish one before Mom and I went to watch Wives and Daughters.

Ok, about that.... I LOVED it. It was a great movie. (Thanks to Melinda for loaning it to me!) It is long, 5 hours, but you get really into the story line. It is entirely decent, and I believe there is only one low cut dress. The realationship between Molly and her dad is great, and Molly's attitude throughout the whole movie is fantastic. I did cry at the end of tape two, though I won't say why. I will tell you that I was on tinterhooks until the final credits. I was hitting the couch and talking to the tv screen, I was so into it. Those who have seen it probably understand my meaning. Anyway, it was good, and I do intend to buy it. It's one of those that you want when the guys are gone on an eighteen hour fishing excursion, as they were this time. However, if I get the movie before or after Christmas remains to be seen:-)

Yesterday was church. I was up with the kids, and I enjoyed it. We did stay down for part of the service but then we went up and traced the kids' hands and feet and talked about how we can use these to serve the Lord. It was great fun. After church, Garrity went to the B's house while Mom, Dad, and I went to Golden Corral with Pastor Jeff and his family, as well as Hannah and her family. We had a wonderful time of fellowship and stayed there until 4:30. Then, we came home for a half hour to take care of Nikki, and then headed back to church. It seems like a crazy day, but it was a great day.

Well, I had better see if I need to help with dinner. It is dreary out here right now. I am wearing a scarf that I made around the house. No, I am not cold; I just like it. However, I did have a beam of sunshine today. I saw the Lord answer a prayer that I had prayed that morning. Isn't the Lord wonderful! I know I can say that today; I hope you can too. Even if not in a form of answer prayer, look and see; you will discover that He IS wonderful, regardless of what things appear like!

I have a brief few minutes, so I figured I would update you all on my life this week. It has been great, and not too crazy!!! Anyway..

Tuesday was piano lessons. They went fine, but I must admit, I am at a block with some of the pieces. First off, I don't like Mozart. I know I have said that repeatedly, but it's the truth!! I am trying to have a positive attitude about the guy, but it is just so hard!! Then, I am still in the midst of composer's block on my original composition. I wanted it to be an Irish Jig, but that's not happening. My few notes sound more like an Arabic terrorist group or something! It is nutty. Oh, how I wish I could get these things figured out! The Lord needs to grant me patience, both with the pieces, and with myself.

Yesterday, we went to the Phillips, Craig, and Dean concert. We got there early like Dad wanted, but we wound up in the middle section of the center. But, I could see!!! We wound up sitting with the Dy's, so that was fun. The music was incredible. (I say I don't like them, as a father/daughter joke, but I am really kidding.) Oh, the lyrics were amazing. I nearly got teary-eyed several times, and I am not sure why. The music was just getting to me. They played my Dad's favorite (but not the one you said, Alice.) They played two songs off of their new cd, and I just love the song, Your Name. Talk about a song with a message. But I liked this other one that went, "Lord, I am amazed by you, Lord, I am amazed by you, Lord, I am amazed by you, that you love me." It was just a cool song, because it is sooo true. How the Lord loves me inspite of myself and grants me grace and mercy every day I can hardly fathom!

We did discipleship tonight, and the subject was on modesty. Oh, that is such an important subject, but one that is not really practiced anymore. We really talked about how modesty is a law by God and it prevents guys from stumbling. That is why I do it. Yes, I do it for Garrity, but I do it for the guys at church too. I just wish there were more people that did things my way. (Actually, it's God's way.) I pray that never will I, even accidentally, do anything that leads a fellow brother, or any guy, down a path of destruction.

Ok, Mom and I have figured out our plan for Saturday. We are making cards, like I said, and we are going to the tearoom. But we decided to go with Grace and Mrs. D. They have never been before, and I bet they will enjoy it. (Though it isn't the Ritz or anything:-) Then, Mom and I are going to watch the new Pride and Prejudice and Wives and Daughters. I have heard the latter is really good. I have seen the former once, and I tried very hard not to compare it with the long six hour one. I don't know how good I did. The scenery and music in the new one is breathtaking! Yet, it left out alot of the book, but it's to be expected with a two hour thing. Something has got to go!

Oh, I don't remember if I said that I decided to do Ronald Reagan for my research paper. Well, I finished one book today, and I wound up with six pages of notes and four pages of quotes. I still have either four or five books left to do!! I have come to determine that he was an amazing and godly president. If only we had about four presidents, each with two terms, that were just like him, our country wouldn't be so far gone today!

Well, I must close. So, there's a brief update. Have a swell weekend, and God Bless!!!