Minister Mentor Mom

Making it Right

2012-01-18T13:51:00.000-06:00

So many times we get things wrong. What we do in response to a wrong action, word spoken out of turn or even a harsh look makes all the difference. Today, I went to lunch with my daughter and her little family at a very popular restaurant in the Houston area. Everything there is usually just great. This time they got my order wrong. Honestly, it really did not bother me too much because my expectation was positive - I was sure they would just apologize and make it right and offer a small discount. Well, I was half-correct.

I asked to speak with the manager but he never showed up. I decided when there was no genuine offer of an apology or discount or anything that I would just wait until the meal was all done & paid for and then quietly go speak with the manager on duty. I don't like it when people are mean and I don't like it when people make a scene. Thinking of Proverbs 1:7b, "only a fool rejects wisdom and good advice" - I decided to just introduce myself, tell them something nice about their establishment and let them know I thought it was important to communicate about my negative experience...hoping it would encourage a positive response. YES! It did! Both managers were present as I relayed my thoughts, they both thanked me and then offered me a gift certificate as a way to express their apology in a tangible way. I told them that I had no intentions of taking the voucher - but they insisted, so I accepted. How nice it is when things are handled in a positive way, making it so much easier to get on to the next thing.

This week in our Bible Fellowship class we talked about "Encouragement" and how it has several meanings, all important, and how they vary in intensity. Remembering the words of the Hebrew writer; from chapter 3, "encourage one another each day" helps me stay focused on the outcome that I want, ultimately what God wants for us all - instead of something more surface level. Encouragement that brings a course correction can mean the difference in behavior and eventually keeps us out of problematic situations...even keeps us heading toward a full life with our God.
Good Stuff!

Stationery card

2011-11-21T14:54:00.001-06:00

Vintage Snapshots Christmas Card

Customize your Christmas cards this holiday at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

Holiday Pumpkin Bread

2011-11-09T08:08:00.000-06:00

My daughter requested this recipe post; this is for you, Sarah!
My family LOVES it when I make this during the holiday season...well, so do our friends. I often will make mini-loaves and give this as gifts, as well. I do hope you'll try it and that you'll serve it with love at your Thanksgiving table.

Ingredients

4 C unbleached flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
3/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. ginger (and 1/2 tsp. ground cloves, optional)
3 C sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 C canola (vegetable) oil (try using applesauce instead for a “no oil” recipe)
4 eggs
2 1/2 - 3 C pumpkin, cooked and mashed - water drained out (canned will work, too).
note* 1/2 C water may need to be added if the pumpkin has very little moisture

Directions

In a large bowl, place 1st 7 ingredients, combine well.
In a medium bowl, mix together the next 4 ingredients.
Incorporate the mixtures from both bowls. This forms a sticky bread dough. Unless you have an amazing mixing machine that can deal with larger quantities, use a long handled flat spoon or strong spatula to mix. Electric mixers usually have difficulty with this because of the consistency.
Fill coated loaf pans 2/3 full. You can do any size and you can also line the bottoms of loaf pans with parchment paper for easier removal after baking. Bake at 350 in a preheated oven, middle rack. For small loaves: 35-40 minutes, for medium: 45-50 minutes, for large: 55 minutes to an hour.
You can also make these in muffin tins with paper liners and frost with buttercream frosting or confectioners sugar icing for a different treat! (reduce baking time to approx. 20 minutes)

Weekly Tip From Home

2011-10-27T07:39:00.000-05:00

As the Fall weather approaches, I look for recipes that are tasty, nutritious and warm. Today I am posting a recipe from my Grandma Hull. She made the old-fashioned dumplings and dropped them in soups. Try this easy recipe and use instead of rice or pasta in your soups. I hope you enjoy this as much as we do.

Dumplings

Ingredients
1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter (room temperature)
1/2 cup milk

Directions
Stir together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in medium size bowl. By hand, cut in butter until well blended and crumbly. Stir in milk to make a soft dough. Now, you have two choices: You may flour a clean counter top and roll out the dough and cut small triangles or just skip this step and drop by spoonfuls into boiling soup. Reduce heat on the soup (or stew) once you add the dumplings)- cover and simmer 15 minutes without lifting lid.

Enjoy!

Weekly Tips From Home

2011-10-16T15:36:00.000-05:00

The BEST Pumpkin Pie, ever!

Once you have tried this, you will never go back.
Ingredients
2 1/2 - 3 C fresh pumpkin (cooked/mashed well) and liquid pressed out
For variety: (this is my favorite way: mix your Pumpkin with mashed Butternut squash, equal parts)
Note: you may use can pumpkin but fresh is always preferred - and mixing any of the winter squash varieties with pumpkin works very well when making breads or pies.
2 eggs
3/4 C Organic sugar
3/4 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ginger
1/8 tsp. clove
1 1/4 C evaporated milk (can)
1 pie shell (deep dish) - or a pie pan with your own pie crust, pressed in (unbaked)

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a bowl, combine: all ingredients very well. Pour into the baking pan.
Put this in the oven for about 55 minutes - middle / top rack, center.
It is fine to cook two pies at once - half-way through cooking, rotate pans so they cook evenly.
TIP - to avoid the crust browning too much... take small strips of foil and gently cover the crust only, around the pan edges. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes.
Once done, remove from oven, let stand at least 30 minutes (pie will “finish” as it cools). Cut into 8 slices, serve with real whipped cream on top!

Weekly Tips From Home

2011-10-11T08:07:00.000-05:00

Oatmeal Apple Crisp... Just in time for Fall

INGREDIENTS
5 - 6 granny apples (green) or mix sweet and tart apple varieties - peel and slice
3 Tbsp. sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 C lt. brown sugar
1/3 C flour
1/2 C quick oats
4 Tbsp. butter (soft but not liquid)

DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly butter a glass pie pan.
In a bowl, combine: apples, cinnamon, sugar, and half the salt. Put into the baking pan.
Mix together: oats, brown sugar, flour and remaining salt. Blend in the butter with this mixture with a fork or by hand - make sure it is well combined.
Put topping mixture over apple mixture and bake in the oven for 45 min - to 1 hour.
Cool for 20 minutes. Serve with vanilla ice cream, while warm.

TIP
Making Dinner Easy
Sometimes we need simple ideas for dinner but we still want it to be wholesome and home-cooked. I started making "oven-sandwiches" years ago when we were a very busy family but I needed a way to fill hungry teens. You can use all natural (nitrite free) sliced meats; these are getting easier to find now and the cost has come way down over the years. Use various varieties and combinations of cheeses to change these up... think about your favorite sandwich shops and what you like to get there - then, create your own!
Here is what I do - open up sub-bread, put lots of shredded or sliced natural cheese on both sides, heat under the broiler for just a couple minutes - add on various sliced meats and seasoning like cajun, put it back in the oven to heat up a little more... once it is hot from the oven, top with lettuce, tomato and anything else such as pepperocini or black olives.
Serve with fruit and chips. It's easy and it's dinner!

Weekly Tip From Home

2011-10-04T20:45:00.000-05:00

This post is inspired by my only daughter who is married and also a mom of a toddler. She's a lovely daughter, good wife to her husband and great mommy! She was telling me today about how their son, my only grand-baby, is getting "picky" about eating. Man, I remember those days. I recall doing lots of talking with other moms when mine were young and reading about children... everything from eating habits to discipline. One thing stuck out; when children eat, look at their diet over a period of several days, not just one day. Make sure it is balanced with proteins, carbs, fresh foods and grains. I remember my pediatrician saying something like, if they eat a good variety over several days time and they are well hydrated, then everything is probably just fine - they phase in and out of preferred foods. So - got picky eaters that just like cheese? Ok. Steam some veggies and put cheese over that! Alternate foods they are usually fond of. And, try one new thing at a time...and don't give up. The first time you get some vanilla soymilk, they may not like it. but the second time, they just might. Peaches on Tuesday and apples on Wednesday. Picky toddlers eventually turn into teen-agers that NEVER stop eating! It will happen. Most of all, try to enjoy those endlessly busy days... you can never retrieve a day that has already gone by.

Weekly Tip From Home

2011-09-27T15:32:00.000-05:00

French Onion Soup

Ingredients
1/4 cup butter
2-1/2 cups thinly sliced onions (2 large)
2 C fresh mushrooms, clean / sliced (optional)
28 oz. canned/boxed beef broth or 28 oz. homemade beef stock
1/4 cup dry sherry or dry white wine
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Salt, to taste
1 small garlic clove chopped well
4 1/2-inch slices French bread, toasted
3/4 cup shredded Swiss, Gruyere, or Jarlsberg cheese

Directions
In a 3-quart saucepan melt butter. Add onion and cook, covered, over medium-low heat for 12 - 15 minutes or until tender, stir periodically.
Take the lid off; cook and stir onion over medium-high heat about 10 minutes more or until onion is golden. This is where you add the mushrooms, if you want this option. Stir in broth, sherry, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper. Bring to boil then reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
While this is cooking, preheat broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil; put bread slices on baking sheet. Broil/toast bread for 2 to 3 minutes or until light brown, turn once. Top with cheese. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes more or until cheese melts and is light brown.
To serve, ladle soup into bowls. Top each serving with a cheesy bread slice.
Makes 4 main-dish sized servings.
Another option: French Onion Soup with Beef: Prepare as above, except add 1 - 2 C chopped (small) cooked beef with the broth.

TIP

Making and serving soups and stews can satisfy your family members in the cooler months. These can be prepared, reheated, and frozen for the future, too! Serve with a simple salad on the side and enjoy.

Weekly Tip from Home

2011-09-02T08:23:00.000-05:00

Italian Sausage / Pasta Bake

Boil some pasta such as elbow macaroni or rotini... you’ll need about a 16 oz. package.
Pan fry 1 lb. mild italian sausage (pork or turkey sausage), after 3 minutes, add in 1 C chopped onion, 1-2 finely chopped garlic pods (or 1/2 tsp. garlic powder), 1 package (8 oz.) mushrooms & some Italian herbs seasoning. After another 3 minutes add in one big can (about 24 to 28 oz) crushed tomatoes, stir then add at least 3 C fresh spinach leaves (frozen is o.k., too). Once every thing is nearly cooked, add in a little salt, 1 C mozzarella cheese and 1/2 C Parmesan Cheese (grated) - combine and transfer to glass baking dish. Sprinkle another 1/2 C grated cheese over the top and bake at 350 for 15 minutes until it is bubbly and cheese is melted.
Serve with a small salad and some warm bread!

TIP: Eat at the TABLE with your family - not in front of the TV.Dinner time should be enjoyed together as much as possible. It’s a good time to unwind and catch up with each other. When everyone is at the table, you can thank God for providing, make eye contact, speak freely and take a break from a busy day.

Chicken & Salsa Bake

2011-08-31T08:06:00.000-05:00

I made this one yesterday. David took the "leftovers" for lunch, LOL!
If you want Mexican food but don't want to pay for someone at the restaurant to cook it for you, try this.

1 1/2 to 2 lb. chicken pieces cooked and cubed - or use ground chicken or turkey meat - or you can use any boneless skinless chicken, including baked chicken leftovers :-)
1 can cream chicken soup
6 oz. sour cream
8 oz shredded cheese (mild cheddar or colby jack will do)
1 small jar (about 8 oz.) mild salsa
2 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
8 flour tortillas - med. size
chopped green onion tops, for garnish (optional)

Directions

In a medium size bowl, combine soup, sour cream, spices and salsa.
In a small bowl, set aside one cup of the mixture and stir grated cheese into that.
To the mixture in the medium bowl, add cooked meat and stir well.
Spray glass pyrex (casserole pan) with cooking spray - or line bottom (only) of pan with foil.
Fill each tortilla with chicken / salsa mixture, roll and place in baking pan - seam-side up.
Just warning you - this is a little messy - but once the tortillas are nestled together and the thick cheesy mix goes on top, it all works out. Pour mixture from small bowl over the top pan contents and bake for 40 minutes. Serve with a side of black beans.

Crock-Pot Beef

2011-08-29T15:10:00.000-05:00

My Recipe of the Day

I put a 3 to 4 lb. chuck roast in the crock pot, sprinkle both sides with garlic powder, Cajun or All-purpose seasoning and add a cup of water around the sides. Cover tightly. Cook on low, all day (6 to 8 hours). It's tender and pulls apart with a fork. With shredded meat, I often serve with mashed potatoes and green beans... or for a "Mexican twist," I put meat in warm tortillas (flour or corn) with a little chopped onion, scoop of black beans, cilantro and salsa! This is just great with a side of spanish rice or melted queso and chips!
YUMMY!

Weekly Tips From Home

2011-08-27T12:44:00.000-05:00

I have decided to post "weekly tips from home."
After being a homemaker for more than 25 years, I figured I had something to offer young families!
This week, I am posting a couple recipes that are easy and affordable for anyone on a tight budget. In addition to that, I have a few suggestions for those of us who need to plan meals for our families. Enjoy - and feel free to comment on anything you like.

Baked "Ranch" Chicken
Using a package (2-3 lb.) of boneless skinless chicken pieces - rinse them and leave wet.
In a flat pan, combine 2 C bread Crumbs and one packet of Hidden Valley Ranch mix and 1/4 tsp of garlic powder.
Lightly Spray a baking dish with cooking spray, take wet chicken pieces, coat them well (press) with bread crumb mixture, place in pan, bake at 350 for about 1 hour (covered with foil). To brown, uncover and bake 5-10 more minutes.
Serve with veggies and any of your favorite starches, such as baked mac-n-cheese or mashed potatoes.

Baked Mac-n-cheese
Easy and quick!
Boil some pasta such as elbow macaroni or rotini... you’ll need about 4 C cooked.
In a bowl scramble one egg, add to that 1 C milk, 1/2 stick melted butter, and 2 C shredded cheeses. Stir that to combine.
In a baking dish sprayed with cooking spray, put in your cooked pasta, and stir in ingredients from bowl. Top that with more cheese, Bake at 350 for 20 minutes.

TIP: When you are cooking...
sometimes simple is better - it does not need to be complicated or expensive to be good tasting!

Pondering Dependence on God

2011-05-16T15:32:00.000-05:00

These are some of my favorite quotes regarding relating to God

Such is our dependence on God that we are obliged not only to do everything for HIS sake, also to seek from HIM the very power. This happy necessity of having recourse to Him in all our wants, instead of being grievous to us should be our greatest consolation. What a happiness is it that we are allowed to speak to Him with confidence; to open our hearts and hold familiar conversation with him by prayer! He invites us to it!
Francois Fenelon 1651 – 1715

He that seeks God in everything is sure to find God in everything. When we thus live wholly unto God, God is wholly ours and we are happy in all the happiness of God; for by uniting with him in heart, will and spirit we are united to all that He is and has in Himself.
William Law 1686 – 1761

We are all pencils in the hand of a writing God, who is sending love letters to the world.
Mother Teresa 1910 - 1999

Committing each day’s details to God in prayer (requesting “our daily bread”) can deliver us from pointless pursuits and wasted time. Such prayer paves the way to victorious days.
Submit your day to the lord and ask Him to provide for your needs. He faithfully responds as we set our times in His hands.
Dr. Jack Hayford

Can it be that we find freedom by giving control to another? Yes, absolutely! Can we be free when our only desire is to submit to the will of another? Certainly! Freedom is not about being in control, it's about no longer having to struggle every day to satisfy our desires. The ultimate freedom comes from the knowledge that our desires will be fulfilled by our God who is in control.

Therein lay the peace and freedom, which Christ promises, but we have to take it for ourselves. We have to decide to lay down all other desires and take upon ourselves a single desire, which is an intimate relationship with Jesus. We must surrender to Him in every way, and we must do it daily. By doing this, all other desires disappear except the one which never disappoints, and that is when we become truly free.
Delve Christian Ministries

The point is: that we don't have to worry about {anything} once we surrender to God. We simply trust in the Lord with everything we have and He will see us through. God never said it would be easy, but He did say He would sustain us through the hard times and welcome us with open arms into His Kingdom when our time comes.

Scripture support

Matthew 16:24 (The Message)

24-26 Then Jesus went to work on his disciples. "Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You're not in the driver's seat; I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I'll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What kind of deal is it to get everything you want but lose yourself? What could you ever trade your soul for?

(New King James Version) Take Up the Cross and Follow Him

24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.

1 Peter 5: 5 – 10

…all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for

“ God resists the proud,
But gives grace to the humble.”

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Mentoring

2011-01-14T12:11:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite scriptures is Philippians 2: 1-4
Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

The key here being, value others before your self. This is the ultimate goal. Jesus set the example in leading others by listening to their questions and comments, preferring them, recognizing their needs and leading and communicating with them in ways that they could understand. Good mentors do the same thing. I desire to be more like this with those that are in my sphere of influence.

Another of my favorite scriptures from the same book is found in Ch. 3 vs. 12-17.
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Following Paul’s example is not easy. After all, he wrote this letter from prison! Could we keep our perspective that well? Good question.

He goes on to say, All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained. Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.

Wow. You know, there are reams of pages written on the subject of leadership and mentoring others. I have ready many of them. Many are good. I still go back to the example that Christ and other very Godly people, then and now, have set for me and I gain the most from learning important lessons from them... experientially.

Robert Clinton refers to mentoring like this: Mentoring is a relational exchange between people, which will have various levels of involvement and degrees of intensity.

This year, I have several young ladies that I am mentoring - each on different levels, based on their needs and positioning. One is more intense; where I coach and disciple, another more occasional; where I counsel and teach. Each of them requires a different amount of my time. Each of them will have different durations (time lines). The thing that is the same with all of them is that we will work toward our goals and the end the mentoring when it is appropriate and goals are reached.

Howard Hendricks says, “At their best, mentors nurture our souls. They shape our character and look inside us and find the man (person) we long to be. Then they help bring that man (person) to life.”

My husband and I are in mentoring relationships with other couples - both upward and downward. These have been and are very important to our long-term spiritual and family life growth. It’s been said that all of us should be in these kinds of relationships because we all have something to give and we all need to receive input. I wholeheartedly agree with this statement.

So, who are you mentoring? Who is mentoring you?

Cinnamon Pumpkin-Sweet Potato Souffle

2010-12-25T11:26:00.000-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS, ALL!
This is a wonderful holiday side-dish that is easy to make.
Cook 2 large yams and scrape contents out of the skin. Preheat oven to 350. In a mixing bowl, Combine 2 cups of (fresh cooked or canned) mashed pumpkin with 2 large mashed yams, then add 2 eggs, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 stick of butter and a teaspoon of salt. After combining ingredients well, transfer to a baking dish. Optional topping: place pecans in rows over the top of the mixture and sprinkle cinnamon-sugar and drizzle butter. Bake for about 45 minutes. Voila! This is a wonderful alternative to marshmallow yams, or anything similar. The combination of the pumpkin and yams make a great texture and they compliment each other, well. If you're not a big fan of pumpkin, try this with butternut squash, instead. Enjoy!

Cheesy Jalepeno Cornbread

2010-11-28T10:33:00.000-06:00

Mix two boxes of Jiffy Cornbread mix as directions indicate. Add to that a can of cream style corn and stir well. Put 1/2 that mixture into a 13X9 glass pan sprayed with vegetable oil. Sprinkle on some (about 1 1/2 C) mild cheddar cheese and some cut jalapeno peppers (I use the ones in the jar *hot*). Now, cover the layer with the remaining batter and bake in the oven at 375 for 40 minutes.
Enjoy with any meaty stew or chili!

Car crash

2010-11-01T13:49:00.000-05:00

On March 9, 2010 I was driving home down Hwy. 36 south, I slowed down and put on my right signal as I prepared to turn on to a side street. All of a sudden, I was hit extremely hard from behind with no warning – the impact sent our car (with me in it) across the road, airborne, spinning, whipped around and I landed in a deep ditch facing the opposite direction from where I was before. I landed very hard, the back windshield exploded out, I was so scared, I heard myself screaming…the feeling of loosing all control was awful. I felt pain immediately in several parts of my body but because of the shock of everything all I could think of was, can I find my phone…can I dial 911…was anyone there… what just happened… was anyone going to help me? There is much more to this story but THIS is why I have not been blogging since the spring. It's been a difficult several months, to say the least. There have been months of physical therapy and doctor visits and such things related to dealing with coming back from something like this.

Alas, I am back! I have lots to write and thought at the least, I would begin with the reasons I have been gone! I am doing better, though not completely on the other side of all of it just yet. If you are inclined, I'd love for you to say a prayer for me. Not just for the rest of the physical healing but for the resolve to all the "business" side of settling the matter. Thanks.

more to come about family, ministry, cooking and issues of life...

I am Caleb's "nonni"

2010-02-25T10:14:00.000-06:00

Wow - could my heart be any more full? The answer, of course, is NO! I knew I would love him but unless you have already become a grandparent, no one can tell you what this is like. I am so proud of Sarah, my only daughter, for being such a good 1st time mommy. And our little one, only 8 days old, is the joy of my heart, even at 1:30 a.m.! Ha!

One funny thing, I had the hardest time knowing what I wanted to be called by our grandbaby. Why? Well, I am relatively young so pet names like "granny" just didn't work for me. I did quite a bit of searching and came on the term "nonni" which comes from "nonna" and is the Italian term for grandmother. I like it! I think I can teach him to say it, too. that's what's most important. I want him to always know David ("papi") and I and always feel that when he is with us he is very loved.

I am so proud!

Taking Time to Be Kind

2010-01-29T12:12:00.000-06:00

I am actively involved in something called the Love Challenge http://thelovechallenge.net/challenge/ and here are some recent results of taking that challenge seriously.

Yesterday I was putting gas in my car and a man rolled up to me at the pump; he was in a wheel chair and I knew what was coming next. He asked for money, of course. But God tugged on my heart and instead of reacting, I stopped and just looked his way and asked, so what's your story? I think I took him by surprise but he did answer after a brief hesitation and told me that he was hit by a car several years ago and his spine was fractured in three places. He said he had some ability to walk, now, but it is painful so he is in the wheelchair most of the day. I expressed by regret for what he had been through but asked if he was living somewhere and why did he need money - didn't he have family to help or a provision of some kind? Well, through our conversation I saw that, really, he just wanted someone to listen. I did give him the little cash I had, he said thanks, very sincerely and was also grateful for the conversation. I also told him where he could get some practical help with food, as the little money he has just doesn't cover all his needs.

I am making a conscious effort to observe, just a little more and see if maybe God wants to "speak to my heart" when I encounter things through my day. I am sure I have missed too many opportunities to show kindness and the Love of God to others and I want that to change. We cannot rescue everyone and we do need to exercise caution, but no so that it stops the flow of love to other people we come in to contact with. Love really is Compassionate and Kind.

Easy Chunky Tortilla Soup

2010-01-13T14:16:00.000-06:00

Several of you have asked about my Tortilla Soup recipe so, here it is! Enjoy!

In a large pot boil chicken pieces (I use 6-8 thighs, no skin). After they are cooked (20 minutes or so), remove from pot. Let Chicken pieces cool off then tear the meat from the bone into bite size pieces. To the boiling broth add: a chopped garlic pod (one or two), a large can of black beans (rinsed/drained), 2 cans of Campbell's Fiesta Nacho Cheese soup and one can of milk, one small bag of frozen corn, one jar of salsa (I use spicy!), and 3 cups of cooked brown rice. Stir this while bringing everything up to a boil. Then add the cooked chicken back to the pot and salt to taste. Cook everything together for about 10 minutes and dinner is ready!
Total cooking time: 55 minutes

Serve this chunky soup over tortilla strips or corn chips of your choice with shredded cheese on top and an avocado slice to garnish!

This recipe freezes well and is a real crowd pleaser. Let me know how you like it!

Family and Holidays

2009-12-25T11:24:00.000-06:00

This is a wonderful time of year. The world seems to slow down, briefly, and it gives us time to spend with our family. Days of no work, few distractions, more food than usual and time to reflect on our blessings are important. No matter what life on earth brings, I wish you joy, peace and hope which comes from God, from whom we have obtained grace.

Love, Anna L. Valle & Family

Unto us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His
government and of Peace, there will be no end... Isaiah 6:6 & 7 MERRY CHRISTMAS

Guardian Angels and Christmas

2009-12-14T18:38:00.000-06:00

Psalm 91 is wisdom poetry and song mixed with an oracle of God – it speaks of the security that Jesus (Yeshua - hebrew) the Messiah brings to all his followers. Because we are in the Christmas season and we are remembering the birth of our Savior on earth, it is very fitting to remember a portion of Psalm 91, as it pertains to us and to the angels.

Psalm 91:9-12 Because you have made the Lord your refuge, and the Most High your dwelling place, There shall no evil befall you, nor any plague or calamity come near your tent. For He will give His angels charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways. They shall bear you up on their hands, lest you strike your foot against a stone….God created angels and they serve in the heavens and Earth in so many ways.

Angels are SPECIAL Messengers, according to Holy Scripture, Hebrews 1:14 “…Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?
We can gain understanding through knowing the word origin for "ministering" and for "angel." Word Origin for ministering = leitourgos (gk) Definition = of or for service
Word origin for angel = malak (heb) Definition = a messenger or ambassador or envoy

Isn't it comforting to know that the angels are there to accompany, defend and protect us and act on the will of our God! The next time you sing a song about angels or think about "The Christmas Angel" or anything like that, be sure to thank God for dispatching these powerful beings on your behalf. Although there is so much more to say about these created beings, I will leave that for another time. What we do know is, angels were here before we were and they will serve God for all of eternity. From the various descriptions we find of them from Genesis 3 (1st mention) to Revelation 22, they are authoritative, inspirational & beautiful and exist to worship the God of Creation. One of their shining moments came at this special announcement...

From Luke 2
"...And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ[a] the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

Merry Christmas

Storms of Life

2009-12-03T09:35:00.000-06:00

A friend sent me a portion of this message based on Ps. 30:5 and I have added to it.
"Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning"
Hope for you and I, today for whatever we are facing:

A commentary on this Hebrew word translated as 'endure' says that it is the same that you would use for a short stay - like a wayfaring stranger taking up lodging for an evening but being on his way at the break of day.

Thought there is a time for grieving, weeping is not intended to be a permanent resident in our life. God's favor is forever and does not go away... underneath it all is God.

The psalmist says, "Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: Thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness; To the end that my glory may sing praise to Thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever. (Psalm 30:11-12.)

"God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.' So we say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.'" (Hebrews 13:5-6.)

Gloomy or Brokenhearted - This will pass with time - Give thanks to God. Facing a crisis in life? Praise the everlasting God who gives favor and help. He is our hedge of protection & the anchor of our soul, our deliverer, my fortification, defense against the enemy of this world; my shield against any fear that would overtake me.

The forecast may be menacing but God is greater than any calamity. After Israel and Judah failed and were scattered among the nations and it was not comprehensible to them that they could ever be restored and find their way back home the word of the prophet came: "I will whistle for them and gather them, For I will redeem them." (Zechariah 10:8.)

Once we make that decision and commitment to follow Christ, and our Sovereign God of the Universe, we are in His care and keeping- all the time. A storm is temporary - joy comes in the morning!

My Story - Part 3

2009-11-20T12:14:00.000-06:00

By July 1985 David and I were married and in early 1987 I found out I was pregnant with our 1st baby. We were excited but both of us were young and really clueless when it came to parenting. I began to think a lot about how I wanted to raise our children and what our values should be regarding family. I was working at a department store, at the time, and one of my friends was always talking about what Jesus would say...about anything. She used to drive everyone crazy but she made me curious. She and a few of her friends invited me to a church rehearsal for their Easter Celebration. Enticing me with phrases like, we have dancers and they are really good and you’ve got to come give us you input, from a professional perspective. So, of course, I obliged and as I watched the beautiful banners process down the aisle, dancers worshiped with their movement and majestic music was played, my heart melted and I finally got the picture of God that I needed to see. My eyes were opened and my heart softened... I was touched. They finished their rehearsal, came to me for comments and ended up praying with me as I gave my life over to God, that evening.

One of the music leaders asked me if I would teach dance there, at the church. I was humbled and felt so inadequate. But I knew that I could do this with help from the worship leaders and others involved in ministry and arts. That began my journey of discovery on dance as a expression of worship. After taking baby steps in learning what the Bible says about worship expression and meeting with people who had some experience in this, attending conferences on worship and the arts and such, I launched out. This is where dance ministry began, for me.

Over the last 22 years I have learned so much. I have also continued to find that dance is not only a valid form of worship but it is an expression that God enjoys. I recall the time I was on my knees in a worship conference in Dallas....the Lord CLEARLY spoke to my heart: Lay all your expectations down and I will show you dance, my way.

I have had opportunities to tour in a professional Christian dance company in America and Internationally. I have also been partnering with the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem since 1992 as a dancer and more recently as choreographic staff for their yearly Feast of Tabernacles ministry events in Jerusalem, Galilee and other locations in Israel. I have had precious people in my life who have mentored me... passing on the gift. The amazing thing about that is, I still get to work with high-level dancers with a heart to worship God from many different nations. I never dreamed that or anything like it would be possible 20 years ago. There are many other interesting projects and ministries I have worked with like Integrity’s Hosanna Music, Ballet Magnificat, Project Dance New York, The Bard Project, Ad Deum Dance company and more.

The Lord has also given me the sincere privilege of founding the dance ministry at Sugar Creek Baptist Church in 1998. My husband served on creative arts staff developing drama ministry, at the time, and little did we know that God would use us to bring in elements of dance, too. Here we are, almost 12 years later and this ministry has stood the test of time and remains stronger now than ever. Under the current direction of Lori Frazer, we are now expanding and teaching children as well as adults....believing God, like Abraham, for His vision to continue through each member He brings us.

Psalm 135... Praise the name of the LORD; Praise Him, O you servants of the LORD. You who stand in the house of the LORD, In the courts of the house of our God, Praise the LORD
I do praise God - for who He is and for what He has done.

Psalm 138... In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul.
God did this for me, He met me right where I was, He answered me and gave me strength. He will always meet you when you cry out, too.

Ps. 138 continues... For great is the glory of the LORD. Though the LORD is on high, yet He regards the lowly; the proud He knows from afar. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Your right hand will save me. The LORD will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O LORD, endures forever.
I love knowing that His glory is great and so is His Love for us - He cares enough for us to see us, know our need and provide and answer to our questions. He is sovereign and answers us in His own time. He gives us mercy when we need it and deals with our concerns. God strikes down the enemy of our soul and defends us. The key is humility - as we stay close to Him, He stays close to us. If we are proud, He let’s us go our own way until we cry out for Him. It is HIS way.

Psalm 145... The LORD is righteous in all His ways, Gracious in all His works. The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them.

John 14... "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well." more words of Jesus: John 15... "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
It really is true. Coming to terms with our deep need for an ongoing connection with the God of the Universe is critical to living a fulfilled life. It’s also what brings us to our knees on one day and on our feet with hand raised high, on another day.

Psalm 149... Let them praise His name with the dance
God wants us to be abandoned in our worship. The reason we were created was to be in close relationship with our creator and to reflect His Power and His Glory in the earth.

For me, it is about how God rescued me from my SELF and the destruction of a performance based life. He took me out of the pit, rescued me and showed me how to apply the gifts He gave in the arts to worship Him and attract others to do the same.

God can take us from the pain of perfectionism to passion for His Presence. Today I remain firmly grounded, even in all of the twists and turns life has brought. David and I rejoice over having a lasting marriage, that we continue to work on even after 24 years. It's worth it. We celebrate having 4 children, now all young adults, and each of them are doing well in their own journeys. What more could I ask for?

My Story - Part 2

2009-11-20T12:09:00.000-06:00

Two guys, twice my size were following me and one sped up, I could feel his breath behind me. Tapping me on the shoulder, he asked if I had change for a dollar. his tone was snide and threatening. I didn’t answer. This made him mad. He grabbed my shoulder, spun me around, his cohort pulled out a gun, he pinned me to the warehouse wall, stuck a blade into my ribs and started yelling obscenities and telling me to give him money. I fought and shouted back “I don’t have any! Let me go!” I screamed for anyone who would help, and no one responded. I knew I would have to fight for my life. The men were pulling on me, grabbing the dance bag off my shoulder saying I had money in there and if I didn’t give it to them they would, well, they would hurt me in many ways. I kicked, bit and screamed; fought with all the strength I had under the flickering lights of the warehouse wall. While trying to free myself, the second man rifled through what I thought was my most precious possession.... my dance bag. Finding nothing he wanted, he threw my stuff in the sewer water that lined the street and as I broke free from the aggressor, I ran as fast as I could down 8th Avenue toward the 34th street police precinct, still crying, still screaming. I was violated and no one cared. No one.

Later that night after telling my plight to the policeman, he brought me back to the scene to collect anything left behind. While they looked around to see if they any clues as to who these guys could be, I looked for anything I could salvage. They found nothing. I found my few valued possessions strewn in the sewage. Everything that I had left was gone. My life was in the gutter. Distraught, scared and not sure what to do next, I got back in the police car, they drove me home, and as they left, so did I. I walked more than 20 city blocks in the wee hours of the morning all the way to St. Patrick’s Cathedral; surely, God was there. I probably passed several churches on the way, but this one was the only one I really knew of.

Finally arriving, I found the doors locked up. So, I sat in the corner on the top stair and waited. I woke to the sound of someone unlocking the huge doors. The priest asked me to come in. So, I did. I declined his invitation to talk; really, I didn’t know what to say. I sat for a while in the back wooden pew and thought about God and silently asked why bad things happened to me. Even though I got no answers that morning, I did sense something different.

After a while, I knew what I had to do. It had been an adventurous two years filled with challenges, surprises, growth and serious bouts with perfectionistic and self-centered behavior. Things were not working out the way I thought they should and given the horrible experience I just had, I knew it was time to go back home. My parents sent me a ticket, I got on the plane and headed back down south.

Once home, I dealt with lots of emotional issues including a sense of loss. I soon looked to fill that with something to do. I saw a poster advertising auditions for the musical “My Fair Lady” at the local civic theatre company. I thought, why not? It was there that I met David. I engrossed myself in performance opportunities with the local ballet company and the theatre group and kept very busy - never really dealing with deep feelings of some unfulfilled need that I couldn't identify.

Continued in Part 3

My Story - Part 1

2009-11-20T11:59:00.000-06:00

I was raised in Louisiana and Texas and have faint memories of having all I needed, fighting with my brother, going to school, playing with friends as a young girl, attending church, piano lessons and dance classes. I loved dancing. What I don’t have memory of is a real solid connection to God. I recall being very curious, asking questions, attending confirmation classes and memorizing scripture. I just never made the jump over to seeing the need to be saved and changed. Once in high school, my family rarely attended church and I really didn’t feel compelled to go on my own.

About My journey as a dancer: I trained professionally from age 10 and began performing in a ballet company at the age of 14. I was determined to be a performer professionally after I graduated high school. I loved doing musical theatre, too and took several opportunities to be involved in this kind of thing, too. So, I started making plans for my life beyond high school, auditioned for and was granted a placement to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, in NYC. I left for NY in July of 1982, with my mother, who put me in a Ladies Christian Boarding home on the lower east side of Manhattan.

After a year of theatre school, countless hours of dance classes and disappointing relationships, I was getting discouraged. The second year got even harder, and much of my problem was self-inflicted. However, I was finally given an apprenticeship in a jazz company in NY. Being in front of a mirror 5 days per week, rehearsing, competing & trying to earn the favor of everyone around you gets exhausting. The pressure began to take a toll. Perfectionism became a huge struggle and I began to act out, I wouldn’t eat for days, quit developing friendships and having no real God concept....I was getting more lost as each day went by.

Evoking images from the streets of my past is not something I do often but it is what compels me to share my story.

This account begins on a chilly night in the spring of 1984 when I was heading home through Times Square. After living in New York for two years, it had become a familiar scene and I knew how to look past the city and people around me... Long days consisting of technique classes and dance rehearsal in midtown was the norm and today I was tired and had no money for the bus, so I packed up and began walking toward my apartment. It was getting dark outside so I took a short cut, heading from midtown to the lower west side. As I turned the corner on to 38th street, I got the feeling I was being followed. My heart quickened, I picked up the pace, hoping it was just me being paranoid... but what I hoped was not happening, indeed was....

Continued in Part 2

My Story - full post coming soon

2009-10-29T11:49:00.000-05:00

Evoking images from the streets of my past is not something I do often but it is what compels me to share my story. This account begins on a chilly night in the spring of 1984 when I was heading home through Times Square. After living in New York for two years, it had become a familiar scene and I knew how to look past the city and people around me... more to come.

Rosh HaShanah: September 19 - Biblical year 5770

2009-09-15T10:45:00.000-05:00

5770 years after the creation of Adam and Eve, on the sixth day of Creation - All Jewish holidays begin at sundown on the evening before the date shown.

Rosh HaShanah is the Jewish New Year. It falls once a year during the month of Tishrei and occurs ten days before Yom Kippur. Together, Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur are known as Yamim Nora’im, which means the Days of Awe in Hebrew. In English they are often referred to as the High Holy Days. The Jewish New Year is the symbolic anniversary of the creation of the world. The words Rosh Hashanah literally means "Head of the Year." In addition to being the anniversary of the past creation of the world, Jewish tradition sees everyone as being created anew at this time every year. Rosh Hashanah occurs on the first and second days of the Hebrew month of Tishrei (which usually falls sometime in September or October). It is also the Day of Judgment. On Rosh Hashanah, also known as Feast of Trumpets, God opens the Books of Life and Death. Jews ask to be forgiven for their sins in the hope that God will give them a good signing in the Book of Life for the coming year. In order to enter the new year with a clean slate, Jews ask for forgiveness and annul all vows before Rosh Hashanah. Slichot, which means forgiveness, is a series of prayers recited daily in preparation for the "Days of Awe", Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

There are many unique prayers on Rosh Hashanah, and one main theme is that GOD is KING and He rewards those who observe His commands. The essential mitzvah of Rosh Hashanah is to hear the sounding of the shofar. The blasts of the shofar are reminiscent of:
1) The sound of a King's coronation
2) The wailing of a Jewish heart
3) A spiritual wake-up call for Jews to repent
4) Abraham's great faith in God

The Feast of Trumpets can be a very special time for believers in Yeshua (Christ Jesus). There are many parallels to coming to faith in Messiah and This Feast of Trumpets. Look at Scripture: Our sins are not forgiven just when we “believe.” James 2: 19-23 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? Do you see that faith was working together with specific evidence, his actions (or his works) and by works faith was made perfect? To be forgiven, we must ask for forgiveness. God will forgive us, as a loving Father forgives his child if we truly are willing to change. That forgiveness, which we seek, has been granted – bought and paid for by Messiahs’ atoning sacrifice. At that point we begin to be transformed through the study of Gods Word and applying it to our lives. This is the daily "renewal" process all God followers must go through. This brings joy to life and is the strength at the point of our greatest need! God is sufficient!

SHANA TOVA! HAVE A GREAT YEAR!

Don't fret about evil men - Trust in God or more aptly "When good men go bad it makes us mad"

2009-08-18T13:46:00.000-05:00

Over the years my husband and I have witnessed some difficult things. No doubt you have, too. I have wanted to address some important issues concerning our sinful actions or the sinful actions of others and how much focus we really should put on that. We know it affects us in a real way but, what does God want us to know about this subject?

We are created by God for relationship and this is one reason why other peoples actions can positively or adversely affect us. If you have lived a few years then you have, no doubt, witnessed people in your own life do terrible or hurtful things to themselves and/or others. In the Christian realm this can be fairly damaging because if we claim to be God followers then do something that is quite to the contrary of what we say we believe, we now have big problem! Over the last 20+ years, I have personally been affected by Christian leaders who have stolen money, cheated on their spouses, lied to the point they cannot even remember their own lies, broken many promises and more. I am a Christian and so my response should be in line with what God instructs. First of all; I am not with out sin, so I cast no stones. I sincerely want to deal with this issue because, in some cases it causes people to "throw in the towel" where their faith is concerned and it really shouldn't! Humans are not God and never will be.

The Bible says we are not to be led astray by the works of evil men, instead we are to trust GOD and do good and we will live in safety. I believe this. We always need to remember that our Church or Synagogue leaders are not perfect and should never be put on a pedestal. On the other hand the Bible is clear that they will be held to a high standard regarding their conduct and He will judge them in His own way. Well, that really frees us from having to deal with much, right? Well, sort of. We are told to keep our own hands clean and our heart pure so we can be in God's presence. We know this and want the leaders in our lives to do the same. Most of the time they do.... sometimes they don't. It doesn't mean God is any less sovereign than He was yesterday. It just means we are disappointed and they now have the fall out to deal with. The other important thing to remember is, release yourself from these people and let God deal with them. He will, it is His way. He is full of Love and Righteousness; He knows best how to bring things to light then how to restore if there is cooperation. Operative word here: "IF."

The Bible also says that evil men will eventually be cut off and those who trust in God will have an inheritance. I have been pondering these things as I wonder about the state of the Synagogue, Church and even our good ole' USA. Commit YOUR way to God and trust in Him...

Scripture reference focus: Psalm 37 and Psalm 24

Tell me what you think!

Freely understand God

2009-06-11T14:18:00.000-05:00

1 Corinthians 2:10-13.... The Message
^10-13The Spirit, not content to flit around on the surface, dives into the depths of God, and brings out what God planned all along. Who ever knows what you're thinking and planning except you yourself? The same with God—except that he not only knows what he's thinking, but he lets us in on it. God offers a full report on the gifts of life and salvation that he is giving us. We don't have to rely on the world's guesses and opinions. We didn't learn this by reading books or going to school; we learned it from God, who taught us person-to-person through Jesus, and we're passing it on to you in the same firsthand, personal way.

WOW - The Creator God of the Universe teaches us what His thoughts and plans are! THAT, is cool! We are not wandering around, aimlessly, we can know the plans of God for our lives. Yes, some things remain a "mystery" until God reveals them, in His timing, but we are "in-the-know"because we have the helper; Holy Spirit. What's the catch? How can we know? Scripture says that spiritual things are revealed through spiritual language and spiritual connections. I equate this to trying to unlock a door with the wrong key. Hmmm, will it work? No way. But if you have the right key, the door will be opened. In the same way, if we have a true spiritual connection to God, we can understand His Word and His Ways!

Connect with God today - it's not rocket science. It's the call to get real with your person-to-God relationship, realize your need for God and connect with your savior. John 3:16. do it today - then, let God open up His wisdom and knowledge to you, and find a sincere relationship with the loving God like you never have before. Interested? What's your spiritual story?

Friendship

2009-05-20T14:29:00.000-05:00

One definition I found: Friendship is co-operative and supportive behavior between two or more people. In this sense, the term connotes a relationship which involves mutual affection, trust and respect. Another source said that Friendship is a distinctively personal relationship that is grounded in a concern on the part of each friend for the welfare of the other and involves some degree of connection bound with intimacy.

God created us for relationship; with Him and with each other. From the beginning He did not want us to be alone....remember the 1st man, Adam and his lovely wife, Eve? It just went on from there. Of course man and wife are more than friends but the marriage relationship must include friendship, to be sure.

The reason this subject is on my heart is, I have been observing a few "notable" relationships in my life....people that have professed friendship or demonstrated friendship on varying levels (long and short term) and the effect they have on me. And this led me to ponder friendships and if I have done my part in demonstrating "real" care for others I call my friends. And, have they done so to me?

The best example of friendship I can find is in the Bible - there are many! Jesus, exceeds them all... He says He is the friend that sticks closer than a brother; He did give up His life for us. He urges us to do the same....WOW, that is a really tall order. That goes beyond our human terms of friendship, for sure. How can we be able to do this? Only by letting God's life dwell and flow through us. Human nature dictates selfishness and would not allow, in real circumstance, for us to throw our own body under the bus unless something BEYOND our self was at work. God in and through us is able to be a good friend and demonstrates affection and care in a big way!

Proverbs 17 states that A friend loves at all times. ALL times. This means when we are on the receiving end of all kinds of selfishness, unfair circumstances and the like. Not just when it is convenient. This does not mean we accept wrongs but it does mean that bad deeds do not dictate the love we demonstrate. I want to be a friend like that. Don't you?

Listen... God is speaking softly

2009-05-05T12:38:00.000-05:00

I was about to go on a short lunch break - eat a salad at my desk. Well, I was so cold because of the air conditioning that I decided to go outside and sit under the trees. Well, wouldn't you know, it was a God thing.

I had eaten most of the salad and then I heard the back door of the office building swing open and an older woman walked across the stones and asked if she could leave her coffee cup next to me and she would be right back. Of course, I said, yes. And as she turned to go back toward the building, I stopped her and asked if she needed any help, she answered, yes, saying that her husband is in a wheel chair and she could do this but it would be nice to have help.

Well, I knew God had put that scene in motion so I went with her, we got him and wheeled along and talked a little. She is a strong woman of 78, and losing her husband, slowly to Alzheimer's disease. I asked her to tell me a little of her story and she did. She said nearly 8 years ago he started to fade from her. They have been married and in ministry for a very long time and done pastoral ministry in a few places, the last one being in Alabama. As she told me of their life, she teared up...joy mixed with grief. She says they have had such a wonderful life, even arguing about who would take out the trash never lasted very long because other things were more important! She really misses him, even though his body is here.... After several minutes I began to talk with her about our eternal life. We talked about how great it was going to be when God restores us, including her husband, to a glorified state. We also mused about how short our journey on earth really is and how we need to keep perspective, love each other, ignore faults, forgive quickly and things like that. I know she was encouraged but so was I. God is at work and speaking through everyday circumstances. Today, I happen to be listening and He was saying, "don't take the people in your life for granted." Are you listening? What is He saying you?

Make-Up is Your Friend - ask Leslie!

2009-05-04T11:56:00.000-05:00

http://www.lazymoms.com/make-up-is-your-friend/

Have fun reading this blog by Lazy Mom, Leslie!

Make-over fun with Lazy Mom, Leslie

2009-05-01T10:29:00.000-05:00

http://www.lazymoms.com/
Check out their site! It has wonderful fun, practical and often humorous blogs all about the life of a mom. Today, I will be meeting with Leslie and we will do a fun make-over as a part of their series of blogs on looking good.

More to come....

Really, do we have to leave Colorado?

2009-04-24T19:55:00.000-05:00

http://www.highlandhaven.com/index.html

This is where we have been....well, one of the places we stayed over the last 7 days. Amazing (upscale) B&B in Evergreen, Colorado. We actually landed here quite by "mistake" but, be sure, it was no mistake. We love this state and have been in Denver, Evergreen, Kitteridge, Idaho springs, Breckenridge, Silverthorne, Dillon, Winter Park, Canon City, Colorado Springs, including several parks, hiking nature trails and more. You know when you go somewhere and you feel very "at home" and can easily find you way around but have never been there (or at least it has been a long time)? Well, that's how it's been all week. We have enjoyed the grandeur of "God's Country" and the majesty of creation - loud and clear. There is just something about the mountains...clears your head. The Bible even says, "...the mountains bring peace to the people..." Yes, I believe it.

It's a little like Texas in that the people here are so friendly! That's important because I hate traveling somewhere only to discover a bunch of rude, easy to ignore people....NOT in Colorado.
Don't get me wrong, we love our friends and family in Texas but want to come here more... maybe it's the fact that the topography and lifestyle is so outdoorsy and refreshing. I just have to get accustomed to the altitude. We've been from 4500 - 12,000 high over our time here. Still. Amazing.

Even better, concentrated time away with the love of my life, David. 24 years and counting. Reconnecting with out distractions is incredibly important and good for the soul. Who knows what comes next but what ever it is, I am sure it will be good!

The Feast of Unleavened Bread / Passover

2009-04-09T13:37:00.000-05:00

Pesach (Hebrew) means Passover. It refers to Exodus 12:23, when God passed over the Israelites that obeyed His command to place the blood of the lamb over their door posts. Passover celebrates God liberating the Israelites from Egyptian bondage and is probably the single most theologically important holiday in the Biblical calendar. (No pressure.) The holiday lasts eight days, though some may celebrate only a week, and even work on the middle days but certainly not on the Sabbath. It usually falls in April of each year but as always, the Biblical calendar dictates where this 8 day feast falls each spring. Traditionally, devout Jews eat no bread or leavened food on Passover, and do eat matzah an unleavened bread. The seder (holiday meal) is held the 1st evening of Passover and this includes the retelling of the story of the Exodus from Egypt. Messianic Jews include the story of how Jesus (Yeshua) fulfilled the Passover through his coming. I believe it is important for Christians to be aware of Biblical Holidays, like Passover, and remember how He fulfilled the Feasts in the 1st Covenant (Old Testament) through Jesus... this is our ancient faith. God commanded that we keep the Feasts as a reminder of what He has done for us. Consider holding a seder in your home or attending one if you never have. It's a wonderful way to build a family memory and stay focused on what blessings God has given His people over the centuries. This leads us to Good Friday (remembering the sacrifice) and Easter (celebrating the resurrection). Have a great Holiday!

Servant Leadership

2009-03-24T21:42:00.000-05:00

Jesus and so many others, like Peter, gave us the pattern to follow: 1 Peter 5: 3, "Be the example to the flock." Paul said it well when he said, "Follow me as I follow Christ" 1 Co. 11:1

Servant leadership is not: defensive, quick to judge and is NOT self seeking. Real loving and Godly, caring leadership does not get puffed up and exhaust itself trying to get recognition or have a need to be right all the time.

Servant Leaders empower others... they are people with the heart to run with the God-vision, be excellent examples and have a lead-by-example style.... I would advocate for someone like that. I would follow someone like that! A special package. Worth waiting for. Someone who can reach to many age groups and who is a natural gatherer...maybe this person has done a lot but not shouted that out from the mountain top. Know anyone like that?

Times are changing, this world is changing - Thank GOD - He stays the same!

Leading with vision is no small task and takes a small army of like minded God-followers to do it.

If you just had a name pop into your head...someone you know fits this description, comment and let's discuss why!

Collaborating

2009-03-19T22:58:00.000-05:00

Collaboration - by definition - co-labor. I have to say that our Creative Communications Team at work is really good at this. So is our dance company leadership. When we collaborate and come to the finish product, as a team, the end result is always better. The day of the superstar or one man show is over. We have to get over ourselves, work together and let the creative juices flow. Releasing the need to sign our name to the project is really important. Sometimes God sends His creativity through several of us to accomplish a central goal. I truly believe that we would see more beautiful dances created, read more wonderful stories and see more poingnant art come to life if we collaborate more. Is this always gonna be the case? No, of course not. I have just experienced working both ways over more than 22 years in creative ministry and the more we focus on the goal and the less we do so on our selves, the better the result.

Spending time with our young-adult children

2009-03-16T21:18:00.000-05:00

It is so important to take the time just to sit and talk...even doing things like cooking and talking will do. I just spent a good amount of time this evening with my only daughter - and it was awesome. Really. Maintaining relationships takes time and effort but is always well worth it. Funny how time flies. One day they are going to elementary school and you're talking to their teachers about having too much homework and the next thing you know, they're in college! AAHH!! How in the world does this happen? Well, we are incredibly thankful for the 4 really great people we call our "kids" and glad they are turning into beautiful young adults.

The Rodeo with Friends

2009-03-11T09:52:00.001-05:00

Friday, we are going to the rodeo with friends. We're pretty excited because these guys are the kind of friends you have for a lifetime and it's been too long since we hung out. I'm looking forward to some fun and conversation - not to mention we get to see Clint Black! Yee Haw!

Chocolate Cake Recipe to Die for!

2009-03-09T18:04:00.000-05:00

Here is a recipe for all you chocolate lovers...you'll never find anything this good, I promise.
Grandma's Chocolate Cake courtesy of David Valle - my husband!!

2 sq of baker's choc (1 - semi-sweet and 1 - unsweetened)
2 sticks of butter (NO marg.)
1 C water
2 unbleached flour
2 C granulated sugar
2 eggs
1/2 C milk
1 tsp bkng soda
- heat oven to 350, melt choc sq, butter and water together in glass dish in microwave...stir as they heat and melt together. In lg bowl mix all dry ingredients and sift together. In a sm. bowl mix together eggs and milk then combine with melted ingredients while mixing. Last - combine contents of both bowls with elect. mixer. Pour into a prepared 9buttered/floured) glass rectangle dish (13X9) and bake for 25 - 30 minutes. Caution!! Do not over bake. test with a toothpick near center of cake - if it comes out clean...you are done.
Cool cake for at least 30 minutes then frost warm (not hot) with frosting as prepared below.
2 sq of chocolate (same as in cake) and 1 stick butter - melt and combine. Add these next:
1 tsp vanilla (pure)
6 TBLSP sweet condensed milk
2 TBLSP water
1 box of confectioners sugar.
~This will be a thick Icing and is the best!
ENJOY
David said be sure to eat this with a Tall, Cold Glass of Milk!

setting up my blog

2009-03-07T22:24:00.000-06:00

so, I decided to take down my antiquated website and do a blog, instead. I am new at this so it's a "learn-by-doing" kind of thing, right now. My friend from work, Stephanie Click, helped me get going. Thanks, Stephanie. my husband says I am turning onto a "geek" but I disagree. Here's the thing: I love to learn and most of all I love to be creative in lots of ways. this is just one of them. Stay with me as I develop things....