Merry Christmas!

In the Bible, in Luke 2. I hope you'll sit down and enjoy the story of our Savior Jesus Christ's birth. What a wonderful and miraculous event. If only for a little, let's forget about the lights, commercialism and everything else. And remember what the true meaning of Christmas is. I'm so excited about seeing my kids and nieces and nephews open their gifts, but we always make sure they know the real reason for this awesome occasion.

Praying you have a wonderful and safe Christmas!!!

Illnesses and Injuries

I hurt my back real bad Tuesday night. That's why I haven't been online much. I'm still in pain, a lot of pain in fact. But I can actually sit down now. The past few days, I had the choices of sit or lay. Nothing in between. So while I was in tears feeling sorry for myself. Yes, I know....we're not supposed to do that. I got to thinking about all these other people that have cancer and other things that some still don't have a cure for.

A teacher at my daughters school found out she has Breast Cancer, her old bus driver has it also. I found out my cousin who is 6 years younger than me, has Colon Cancer. And countless people at our church has cancer and other illnesses. So I quickly quit feeling sorry for myself. My back injury will heal, might take a while. But the treatments that these others has to go through is far worse than what I'm going through.

I was told once by a person dear to me, that if I don't slow down, God will take steps to slow me down. Soon after that was said...I got a really bad case of the stomach flu. This time...I hurt my back. I slowed down on my feet, but my brain didn't slow down. My point is; while you're sick or whatever, think about the other people with far worse problems. That need your prayers, smiles, notes of "I'm thinking of you" and your help. Maybe take them a meal, send them a note, call them or whatever. Because like my Pastor said "if your focusing on others and their problems, you don't have time to focus on yourself and feel sorry for yourself."

No Snow....

I was praising God at 4:30 a.m. I got up, took a shower and was so happy to see.....yes, you know...NO SNOW!! It was raining, but that's just fine. Now, my kids along with a lot of others were very disappointed. They were counting on a snow day. But Praise the Lord, no snow and by lunch it was beautiful outside. Some of the mountains had snow on them, which is absolutely beautiful to look at. As long as I don't have to be physically in the snow.

The weather people were so sure of the snow and freezing rain coming at us here in Rockingham County. I'm sure God laughed at them and said "No snow for ya'll" (I like to pretend God has a Southern accent, like me). When my 15 year old son was in John Wayland Elementary School, the weather was calling on this bad snow storm and possible blizzard. And if you looked on the radar it showed bad weather was coming. So Rockingham County School's called off school for the next day. Keep in mind when they did this there was no inclement weather happening. It was just cloudy and cold. So they called off school, of course the kids were happy. The next morning everyone wakes up ready to go play out in the blizzard like weather. Guess what? There was absolutely no snow, no rain, no sleet and no freezing rain. In fact that day ended up being the warmest day in about 2 weeks. It was an absolute gorgeous day.

Well people really had a lot to say to and about the school board for that mess up. Up to this day I find it very funny and I've told my kids that story several times, but I can assure you they have not made that mistake since.

Too Cold For Me

Well, Virginia...particularly Rockingham County, Virginia...your prayers were answered. We got rain. Actually, we're getting a lot of rain. Maybe snow tomorrow. I love weather in our area, because it's usually pretty mild. If we get snow, it doesn't amount to anything. If we get rain, well sometimes it floods. But it's been too cold. It's been a hard rain all day. And cold. I hate cold weather.

Our snow works like this; it snows one day and either that evening or the next day, it melts. That's how I like it. And usually this only happens twice per cold season. Once it hits the West Virginia mountains, the strength of the snow dies down. And we get the "leftovers".

Now ice is a whole other story. We get some bad ice storms. My kids always say we get it worse because we live high on a hill and we're closer to God in Heaven. So the ice doesn't have far to go. I know...my kids are too cute. LOL.

Anyway, I'm not complaining about the rain. I've been praying for rain. You don't pray for something, expect it to happen and than say "hey I really didn't mean that". God hears and if it's in His will, it will happen.
Every ounce of my body aches in cold weather. I'm only 28 and holding, LOL, so I'm not so old. But the cold weather makes me feel very very old.

A family at our church is from Montana and they have been praying for alot of snow. But one of their boys wants to move to Hawaii (they're a Military family, God Bless them)). I hope they're not holding their breath for alot of snow. Now if you look through history, you can see Virginia has had their fair share of big snows. But not lately. My daughter saw a snow mobile on t.v. she got excited and of course wanted us to buy one. We laughed and told her, we dont need one here.

Well, enjoy or tollerate the weather. Stay safe and warm. Remember in this area, 1/2" of snow hits the ground, people loose all their senses and forget how to drive.

Baking Home Made Bread

Today, my friend Sally from church taught me how to make home made bread. Mmmmm, it was so delicious and easy to make. But I had a wonderful day of fellowship with her. My daughter had fun playing with her kids and reading to them. Sally's a wonderful and patient teacher. I went to Wal Mart and got more baking supplies so my daughter and I can make more bread tomorrow.

Sally is an extraordinary cook/baker/chef and I just wanted to thank her for taking out time in her busy day to teach me how to make bread. It really means alot to me! Thank you Sally!!

It's All In The Name

So here in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia everyone's related to everyone. When dealing with out of town friends, I often hear the comment "Gosh you're related to everyone." And quite frankly, I am...we are. It doesn't matter how close of a cousin you are, we're all family. Plus everyone in my family believed in big families. So it kind of expanded from there.

Here is some but not limited to some of my family names. And these are ones based in Virginia. I have a lot of family all over the U.S. If you have any of these names, let me know.

Rhodes...Showalter...Burkholder...Smith...Joseph...Huffman...
Shipe...Arey....Reese...Liskey...Piner...Gaines...
Gladwell...Rexrode...McDorman...Dove...Turner...

If you want to know my out of state family, let me know. I'll be glad to share.

Milestone In Our Home

Well, we come close to having a milestone in our home. Our son will be 15 1/2 years old on December 14Th, 2008. That officially means he is able to get his learners license. So God willing on December 15Th, 2008 we will drive out to the DMV in Harrisonburg and take this big step. He's excited, I'm...well, I'm a Mom. LOL, what can I say? He's really been driving around our property, on the farm and other places since he was 10 years old. So he's actually a pretty good driver. And while I'm driving we go through various instructions, tips, etc. I'm confident he'll be a great driver. I'm just a worried Momma and this means my "baby" (who is almost 6 feet tall) is getting older.

Angels On The Moon

There's a song out now that I absolutely love. But it's more than just the song that's great, it's the lyrics. My cousin John died a few years ago of a rare and unknown cancer. He was only 1 1/2 months younger than me, we grew up together as did all of my cousins and we we're all very close. He lived with cancer for 18 months before he went home to be with our Heavenly Father. He was the type of person that was always smiling. Even during his battle with cancer, he smiled and he was more worried about everyone else than he was for his own health and happiness. But this song reminds me of him. Even when he knew he was dieing he kept living. I miss him so much and I know one day I'll be with him again.

Angels On The Moon
by Thriving Ivory

Do you dream, that the world will know your name
So tell me your name
Do you care, about all the little things or anything at all?
I wanna feel, all the chemicals inside I wanna feel
I wanna sunburn, just to know that I'm alive
To know I'm alive

Don't tell me if I'm dying, cause I don't wanna know
If I can't see the sun, maybe I should go
Don't wake me cause I'm dreaming, of angels on the moon
Where everyone you know, never leaves too soon

Do you believe, in the day that you were born
Tell me do you believe?
Do you know, that everyday's the first of the rest of your life

Don't tell me if I'm dying, cause I don't wanna know
If I can't see the sun, maybe I should go
Don't wake me cause I'm dreaming, of angels on the moon
Where everyone you know, never leaves too soon

This is to one last day in the shadows
And to know a brother's love
This is to New York City angels
And the rivers of our blood
This is to all of us, to all of us

Don't tell me if I'm dying, cause I don't wanna know
If I can't see the sun, maybe I should go
Don't wake me cause I'm dreaming, of angels on the moon
Where everyone you know, never leaves too soon

You can tell me all your thoughts, about the stars that fill polluted skies
And show me where you run to, when no one's left to take your side
But don't tell me where the road ends, cause I just don't wanna know,
No I don't wanna know

Don't tell me if I'm dying
Don't tell me if I'm dying
Don't tell me if I'm dying
[ Angels On The Moon Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]

When They Were Little

In my office on my desk, I have a picture of my son, my daughter and one of my nieces. The picture is so cute, they're all beside each other smiling. My son was about 8, my daughter was about 1 1/2 and my niece was just a couple months old.

Like many people they keep family photos around their house, on their desks, on their shelves. I have another purpose for putting this photo on my desk. My son is now 15, my daughter is now 8 and my niece will be 7 in a couple of weeks. They've grown so much, not just their height, but their personalities. They've each developed their own special personalities and have changed so much since that picture was taken. I keep it there to remind me that even when they all act outrageous for whatever reason, act out with bad behavior or fight with each other. They are and were once, innocent little kids that has the whole world ahead of them. They have so much to look forward to and grow into. I get so excited when I look at them because I cant wait to see what type of an adult they'll be, what type of career they'll choose, who their spouses will be, how many kids they'll have. Even now as they get older, their personalities still change so much.

It saddens me as they grow, because they will eventually grow up, move out and have families of their own. But I keep that picture close to see that they are just that....little personalities that are strong willed, bad tempered at times, big sweethearts that do little things to make you happy or cry tears of joy. All three of them will always be babies in my heart, but they will get their wings when they're ready to fly.

Obama or McCain?

The 2008 Presidential Election that will make history is almost here. I'm very excited, yet very nervous for the outcome of our U.S. economy. My son will be 18 in 3 years. This newly elected president and his choices, will affect my son and his future, just as well as everyone else's.

As ya'll know Veterans have a big soft spot in my heart. And I'm wondering which presidential candidate has our Veterans in their best interest. I always get all these email's about how this person opposed this bill for Veterans, etc. And I consider myself a fairly smart person. But let me tell you....the election is just a bunch of bull being thrown out to the proper audience at that time. The candidates may say they cater to Veterans and respect them, blah blah blah. But then when the voting for different bills come in, neither one of them step up to the plate to help them and/or protect them. It depends on who they're talking to, in what they say.

I've honestly made up my mind about who I'm voting for and I suspect most people have too. Come on McCain and Obama, show the Veteran's what you two REALLY got!!

Technology....Handwritten Letters

I love to write old fashioned handwritten letters and send out cards via snail mail. And I love receiving them too. But honestly, I hate talking on the phone, so email and text seems to be on my "necessity" list. The other day I was handwriting a letter to my cousin in Texas. And unfortunately my brain had been dismissed for a short time and in my "handwritten old fashioned letter", I was writing short form "text" words. Oh my, I had to laugh when I finally welcomed my brain back. Now keep in mind, I'm still learning a lot of "text" language from my kids (while they laugh at my back woods old fashioned brain) . But here's a few words/abbreviations that I used. "Lmk when u r out of the hsptl, Il cal u sune aftr."

My cousin is older than me, so I'm sure if she would have received this, I would have received a phone call of confusion. Most of us can probably understand my above text language, but it's kind of like reading a license plate while sitting at a stop light. Most are pretty easy and quickly jump out at you, but others...goodness, some are really hard. It will bother me relentlessly until I figure those out, so I usually write them down, go home and figure them out or initiate my kids help. I guess it's a fun game to play while sitting at one of Harrisonburg's long and unending stupid stoplights. I live out in the country, we don't have stop lights. So when I go to Harrisonburg or other cities around here, I have to find something to entertain myself while waiting. Okay, so I'm getting off the subject.

Today's technology is so advance and fun, that sometimes they crossover with each other. And confusion may arise. I enjoy email, text and blogging. But I try not to forget the old fashioned joy of handwriting a letter. The first time I ever wrote my cousin in Texas, she replied via email that she hasn't received a handwritten letter in a very long time. I encourage the "art" of handwritten letters and I hope it's something everyone will try again.

One of many wonderful memories I have is, when I was growing up, one of my Aunt's moved to different states and she used to write me letters all the time. I treasured those letters so much. And I have one from my old Sunday School teacher that she wrote me. I was maybe 9 or 10 when she wrote it.

I challenge you to pick one person per month and just write a letter to them. Not on your computer or typewriter. Simply with a pen and paper. The recipient will be both surprised and delighted.

I John 1:4

I Am

I'm not sure where I first saw this, but ever since I did find it I absolutely love it. And I keep it on my desk to remind me that I shouldn't dwell in my past mistakes and regrets, because God doesn't.

I was regretting the past

and fearing the future.

Suddenly my Lord was speaking,

"My name is I Am"

He paused, I waited.

He continued,

"When you live in the past

with it's mistakes and regrets,

it is hard. I am not there.

My name is not I WAS.

When you live in the future,

With it's problems and fears,

it is hard. I am not there.

My name is not I WILL BE.

When you live in this moment

it is not hard. I am here.

My name is I Am.

Written by; Helen Mallicoat

You Know You Have Kids When....

I love being a Mom. I've always wanted to be a Mom and one of my main goals in life was to have kids. I have a wonderful 15 year old son and a wonderful 8 year old daughter. My kids are my life and I pray that my husband & I do a great job raising them. Don't get the title wrong, I absolutely know I have kids. They're with me all the time and they're especially in my heart.

This week I've been noticing even more that I am absolutely truly blessed with kids. And anyone who knows me or is around me, knows how blessed I am.

So I found that my kids had written their names all over my Grand Caravan in the dust left from our long road...this isn't the first time and wont be the last. People at church seem to get a kick out of "reading" my van each week. They [the boys] usually have "Redneck Transportation" written on the back, with all their derby car numbers. Today, I found cooked oatmeal in my purse at the bank...imagine the look on the bank tellers face when I pulled my hand out of my purse with a glop of apple cinnamon oatmeal. Oh yummy, NOT! I was taking a shower the other day and my 6 year old niece and my daughter used almost 5 lbs of sugar to make a "surprise". We are well familiar with the emergency room that my son, his friends and my daughter have particular seats in the waiting area they always sit in. My son and his friends like demolition derby cars and lawn mower derbies. So if I leave them at the house by themselves for a short time, my rule list consist of....no guns, no shooting guns, no fires, no blowing up stuff and of course no girls. So far, so good. My daughter whose bedtime on school nights is 8:30 P.M. always decides at 10 P.M. that she wants to do her hair, play with Lincoln Logs or go outside to play with the cats. And let's not forget about the bicycle that's parked right along the drive way where Mom can back over it. Uggghhhh.

So, yes, I am very blessed. My kids are polite, Christians, attend and participate in church activities faithfully, they're good friends and I can't say they're "typical" kids, but they're my kids. And God blessed me when they arrived. Praise God for all things!!

My New Cruet

Okay, so the title already has you bewildered. Right? Well, my Mom bought me a new Cruet.
I know everyone has some weird obsessions. Well, ONE of mine is my Cruet. And during
the summer some little kids (I wont mention any names, LOL) broke mine. We keep vinegar in
ours. And we use vinegar on almost everything we eat and I clean with it too. So it's a well used item.

Why post a story about it? Well, apparently Cruet's are a special obsession in my family. My Mom, my Aunts
and Grandma's all have one. Now, I know...most families have them. But we hit panic mode when ours is
out of commission. So when my Mom surprised me with this, I was so excited and I felt like my little friend
was back on my kitchen counter waiting to be used. So I went to the store bought red leaf and green leaf
lettuce so I could make lettuce salad with our home made dressing using vinegar, of course. Thanks Mom,
I love it!!

So what's an obsession you have? I also have a big obsession with baskets and paper. I have an
abundance of both! Share your normal and/or weird obsessions with us. I know my friend Sally from church on her blog shares that she loves animal crackers. Come on, share with us!!

Prayers For My Dad

My Dad left for the Ukraine this morning for a Missions trip. He is a "Building Missionary", he helps rebuild churches and some homes due to natural disasters. He's spent most his time in Mississippi rebuilding from Hurricane Katrina, most recently in Iowa from floods. Now he's on his way to Ukraine to help build churches.

I'm asking everyone to pray for his safety and all the people traveling with him. My Dad is a Christian and faithfully let's God direct his path.

Praying for you Dad!! Thank you to everyone who prays for him and his friends.

I'm Glad I'm Not A Teenager Again

I'm so glad I'm not a teenager again. The things teenagers go through, I'm so happy I'm married with kids. I'm around teenagers all the time, I have a teenage son and I have a teenage niece. In one week they can go through tears, fights, anger, happiness, big mood swings and than start back over again. Whoohooo, I'm so glad I'm not a teenager again. Ummm, did I already say that?

As Youth Director at our church and than various other youth ministries I do at our church, I am constantly confronted with "teenage issues". I have learned that when teen guys get mad at each other, they usually fight it out and become best of friends again the next day. Now the teen ladies, that's a whole other issue. Usually tears and screaming are involved. And then they hold grudges for a long time.

Now I'm not saying I was any different when I was a teen, because I'm sure if you ask my parents....they'll have that same dazed look that I have on my face all the time now. And as much as I shake my head in confusion, I'm surprised I haven't knocked a few important brain cells loose up there. God bless my parents for tolerating us. And by God's Grace they "survived" our teen years.

My advice to parents; just keep smiling and look as though you actually understand what your teen is talking about. And just remember the teen years don't last forever. ((we hope and pray))

My advice to teens; please enjoy these years, they'll go by too fast. Than you'll join the "real world." Your parents may be confused during the entire duration of your teen years, but we still love you!!

Another Favorite Site....

Evan Dyson is an awesome photojournalist. His site is filled with stories and photos of events that happen in this area. And I have to say that 90% of the time, he has the photos and stories before the Daily News Record and WHSV does.

Please go visit his site and dig through all the older articles and of course the new ones. I know you'll enjoy
your visit.

www.valleyobserver.com

Alex Owah...........I Saw His Face

In our area, there has been a problem with one of the local high school football teams and a few players. They broke the law and basically only one got in trouble for it. And one of the players that are out of jail and playing football, should not (in my opinion) be playing football. But in this area, football and especially this team....football is everything. A "take no prisoners" sort of deal, just win, win, win. So an opinion of alot of people is, he got off because of his "big name" football player status.

I personally have been very adamant about him not playing. I still feel that way, but...........

I saw his face, I saw him up close and personal. I've seen him play before, I've heard and read a tremendous amount of news about him. But this time was different. I didn't see him in a way of spoiled athlete, the "almighty" player alot portray him as or how the high school acts like he's the only player.

I saw him as a teenager that still has a future, as I want my kids to have. I saw him as a young man that could some day grow up to be a corporate lawyer, a Dad, a teacher, a Pro-football player and maybe a Pastor.
I saw him in a way any Mom would want other's to see their kids. I saw the teenager that messed up, but plans on going to a good university and make something of himself.

I saw myself as a person that is far from perfect and a person that hopes other's will forgive me when I make mistakes. Alex and I are alot alike....we're both human. And if we ask, God will forgive us. I do hope Alex straightens up and makes a good life for himself. Alex use your talents God gave you for good. Tim Tebow is one of my favorite football players, I pray his life is an inspiration to you as it has been for me.

I apologize to Alex for the coldness and harshness that I've presented towards you. I pray you do good and make Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, Virginia proud.

I'm still a Broadway High School fan, but I know Alex will do what's best for the Harrisonburg High School football team.

Fall Is Almost Here......

I'm so excited Fall is almost here. The weather this week has been absolutely perfect. We have the windows open at night and it's just wonderful sleeping weather. This evening when I went out to feed all the animals, I actually got cold.

Football games, making apple butter and apple cider are just a few fun things to do and take part in, here in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. Churches are having Harvest Festivals. The church up the road from our house has been making apple butter this week, they auction it off to help raise money for the different things. Each town has their own festivals. I think the biggest (correct me if I'm wrong) is in Dayton. That was started when I was little and it is huge now. But too crowded. They try to stuff too many people and businesses on a few streets and it's just not fun. I actually quit going a few years ago because I feel you can't enjoy what they have to offer when you're too busy crawling through a little space in the crowd. Dayton....I ask, can you please expand to other streets?

Broadway's is very nice. Some good things about this one is, they get more kids and schools involved. Plus you can actually walk around without running into people. Yet, it's very well attended. Enjoy the Fall weather. I feel it's God's break to us for our hot summer. Check out our local newspapers to see what is going on and where.

Do You Really Pray?

You see a friend you haven't seen in years. Ya'll get to talking and your friend shares with you, different health problems they've had. Towards the end of the conversation, you say "I'll be praying for you." As many times I've heard people say that to me and others, I just wonder how many of those people actually take the time to pray for that person?

In a way, not only is that person putting their faith in God. But they're putting their faith in you,that you'll pray for them. "I'll be praying for you" has become such a cliche, that I don't think alot of people are actually putting their promises into action. I don't think prayer is as meaningful to them as it is to some people. Prayer is very important to me. To me as a Christian, it shows that I'm putting all my faith in God. It's my way of expressing needs, concerns, praises to Him. It may be a small prayer request to you, but it could mean the world to someone else. Most likely when people ask for prayers, they're not telling you the whole story or they have alot more problems than they want to mention. So spend a little extra time praying for them.

God hears our prayers, God is faithful and prayers are very powerful! Pray for everyone!

Demolition Derbies

We made our way to the annual Rockingham County Fair Demolition Derby. My family has been involved in Demolition Derbies as long as I can remember, most of my life I guess you could say. My Dad has a huge collection of trophies, mostly 1st place. My brother is following in my Dad's foot steps and has a great collection of trophies, a lot of 1st place. And now starting this year my son was in his first derby in Winchester, Virginia in the north end of the Shenandoah Valley. He placed 4th in his first derby.

Like I said before this has been something in our family which seems like forever. And as I've grown, it seems the demolition derby popularity has grown too. A long time ago, I would only see country people, rednecks (as my son puts it) and the families of the drivers. Now just over the past few years, there is a huge variety of people there. All walks of life. I find that very exciting. We have so much fun at the derbies because it's a family event. And we've also gotten to know other drivers families. I've watched some of the drivers kids grow and that's just fun in itself.

There's some derbies that are horrible. There's cheatin' going on, the officials do not call out anything. And if you have alot of hours on your hands, go to one of these derbies. They are very poorly ran. And they dont seem to care of they have a big audience sitting there waiting, waiting and waiting for things to roll along. I'm not gonna name which ones they are, but I'm sure if there's any drivers and/or their families reading this....they'll know which ones I'm talking about.

My two absolute favorite derbies are ran by Mangled Metal Productions and Nation-Wide Derby. Their whole crew is just awesome and the announcers....well, they make you feel like you're right down there in the drivers seat. Cheating is not allowed, safety comes first and they always make sure everyone knows we're here just to have fun! Great job everyone.

My point being; next time there's a demolition derby around your area...go to it. It's a cheap family event that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face, an extra thump in your heart and make your hair on the back of your neck stand up. Hows that for fun?


**please note, I do not and have never worked for any of the above businesses.I'm just a derby Mom, derby Sister and derby daughter**

How to Have a Good Friendship

1. Pray before I speak

2. Slip up, pray after I speak

3. Plan ahead to avoid calamity

4. Choose the words that fill my mind

5. Choose the words that come from my mouth

God, creation and....

In the Daily News Record, here in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley there has been many Letters To The Editor about God, creation, belief in God, etc. You can go online and post your comments. And quite frankly there's just been too much of the letters and comments.

As a Christian, I don't have to and will not agree with everyone. I am going to take the "Road less traveled". I read online all the time how you can't force someone to believe in the same thing as someone else does. You're absolutely correct. I can't force you to believe God is our Creator, I can't force you to believe you're only way to Heaven is being saved through the blood of Jesus Christ our Savior. I can't force you to go to a great Bible believing church and participate in different church activities. I really can't force you to do anything.

A few months ago my Pastor had a sermon about "Empty Christianity". My Pastor is very to the point, no tip toeing around the point. He doesn't make everything sound all nice and gooey. He speaks the truth as it does in the Bible. But here's some points to his sermon (from my notes). In I Corinthians 15:14-21, it describes an "empty Christianity". You basically have no hope, no message, no salvation, every ministry offered is empty, every belief we have is empty, we are false witness, we are fools and our faith is wasted. If Jesus wouldn't have died on the cross for us and rose again...we would have an empty Christianity. BUT He did do all that. So we don't have to play the "what if" game. By the way my daughter loves that game. :)

Jesus did do all that. So instead of no hope...we have hope. In I Corinthians 15:58, we are given hope. We can put our faith into accurate scripture, we can proclaim the Gospel and we can have hope in Christianity.

No, I can't force you to do anything, I can't force you to change your views about God.
But I can and will plant that seed. I will witness to you, I will pray for you and pray God softens your heart. I will pray for your salvation.

Romans 10:13 For whosever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Canning Tomatoes.....

My daughter and I did our tomato canning today. I love canning and it's special because I'm teaching my daughter something that will be passed down to her daughters and granddaugthers, etc. Just as my family did. And sometimes one of my nieces helps, but she didn't get to this time.

As we were going through the tomatoes, she threw a few out that looked horrible on the outside. So I picked one up, cut it open and showed her that the inside was perfect. So of course I found this to be a perfect lesson on how to treat others.

Not all people are absolutely beautiful and perfect looking. And even those perfect looking people have flaws. But some people will not have anything to do with "ugly" people. Those people might not be so flattering and beautiful on the outside, but if you get to know that person....their inside is absolutely beautiful. They might be the nicest person you'll ever meet in your life and you will miss out on a special friendship. Because you didn't look on the inside. Just as my daughter may have missed a great tomato because she didn't look on the inside.

Kindness.....

We live in the Land of the free, because of the Brave! Remember our Troops of Yesterday and Today !

Kindness is the language the blind can see and the deaf can hear.
- Mark Twain

A great example of why we should be kind and patient.

*taken from an email I received

What's In A Name?

All of us have several names. I'm not just talking about our first, middle and last names...I'm talking about our other names. Like Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt, Uncle, etc. but you get the idea. And in today's world, we even have online names. One of mine is farmerswifederbymom. How does each name define us? I'm Mom the overprotective Lion, I'm also called the "mean" Mom sometimes, LOL. I'm the "cool" Aunt, and wife. I'm Sunday School teacher, Youth Director and my names go on. So do we bend to be the person that name defines? Or does all those titles fit under one person? I think sometimes we do bend to be one person or the other. Sometimes we cant be all those people. Sure maybe I am all those people all of the time. But when I'm with my kids...I just want to be "Mom".

It's kind of like when people say when they go home, they want to seperate their work from their home and personal life. When I'm with my husband, spending quiet time with him...I just want to be his wife.When a person is defined by their title or name, much of the time that title is well deserved. My Pastor said we can call him by his first name, last name or Pastor. He said whatever we're comfortable with. But I call him Pastor, because I feel that title is well earned and deserved. I call my Mom...."Mom" because she has definately earned that title, LOL.

So again I ask....do we bend to be the person that name defines? Or does all those titles fit under one person? I personally think it's different for each person.

Growing Too Fast

It struck me today, that my kids are growing too fast. My son turned 15 in June and my daughter will turn 8 on Monday. I don't feel old, because of their ages and how fast they're growing. I just feel panicked. Think about this, in December my son will get his learners license. Soon after that he'll have his driver's license.

My son has always hung around with his friends, but they are always here and still are. And I love having all the kids here because I know they're safe and what they're up to. But now they're starting to go to the mall, ball games and to lawn parties by themselves (without me). We're a very close family and I think that's why it's so hard on me. Now when my son asks if he can go somewhere with his friends, in my heart I want to say "no, stay home with me", but realistically I have to let him go and grow. We pray that our kids do good in life, grow healthy and strong, stay safe. And most important keep God in their lives even when they grow up, move out and have families of their own.

We let our kids grow, instruct them and nourish them....but we also give them their wings. Like my parents, especially my Mom. They were over protective but they gave us wings. They still keep us close to their hearts and under their wings.

My kids are everything to me. I pray they grow up to be good Godly young adults. But most of all, I pray God gives me the grace to help me, "let" them grow up. Hug your kids and tell them how much you love them. Before you know it....they'll be on their own!

A Few Favorite Links

Here are just a few of my favorite links in reference to our area, enjoy!

www.shenandoahmagazine.com
~local magazine ran by a close friend and her colleague
www.republitarian.com
~blog ran by my cousin
www.heritagecenter.com
~our local historical society
www.mrlib.org
~our local library main branch
www.bigboysplaygroundllc.com
~a great and fun place to be, but expect to get very dirty :)
www.klinesdairybar.com
~yummy ice cream treats. My two favorites are Banana and Pumpkin
www.dnronline.com
~our local newspaper
www.whsv.com
~our local tv station
www.rockingham.k12.va.usa
~our local schools, if you're ever fortunate enough to move here. Here is the information you
need for the schools.

How Do You See Other People?

In today's society, where you live, where you work, where you're from, your family surname seem to play a huge role in how other people see you. If you say you live in a trailer park in the mountains. They probably see you as a hick without any brains. If you say you live in a mansion in Malibu, they probably see you as an intelligent person.

Let's say you send your kids to private school, you're most likely considered rich. Because other than a few fee's at the beginning of the year and lunches, public schools are perceived for the not so rich. If you go to church you're considered a nice person, if you don't...you're considered a bad person.

Homeless people must be lazy, as I've heard alot say. Illegal immigrants are thieves and druggies. If you hear of a murder in your hometown, you automatically think it's someone of color that committed this horrible crime. If there's a bad wreck on I 81, you automatically assume it's an elderly person that has bad vision or a drunk.

How about just once we see people for who they REALLY are. That person living in the trailer in the mountains, might enjoy being in the gut of God's country, maybe not needing anything bigger than that trailer. Have you ever sat and asked a homeless person how they got in that position? I have and they all have a heart breaking story. Laziness wasn't apart of their story. Guess what? Thieves, druggies, murderers come in all shape, sizes, color and nationality. There's nice people that don't go to church and there's hateful people that do go to church.

Until you know that person's heart, that persons story...dont judge. Dont put them in front of the firing squad before you get to know them. And if then, you still dont care too much for them....move on. Dont cause trouble, dont judge them, dont be hateful to them and certainly dont put yourself above them. God created all of us in His image.

Swimming Pools In This Area

I take my kids, nieces, nephews and their friends swimming alot during the summer. And because I get bored very quickly, I like to switch pools we go to. But I found that we keep going back to one pool. That is Broadway Pool down in Broadway, Virginia. Now keep in mind, I haven't been to all the pools. Here is the pools we have visited this year and past years. Grand Caverns Pool, Grottoes, Virginia, Timberville Pool, Timberville, Virginia, and West Over pool in Harrisonburg . I haven't gotten up to Natural Chimney's pool, but my niece goes up there with her maternal Grandparents and they like it. Now those names are not the "official" names of them, but that's what I call them because of where they're located at.

Timberville pool is alot smaller than most, the floor of the pool is horrible. It's very rough and your feet end up feeling rough and cut when you're done. But they do have diving boards. So the kids seem to like that. They don't have enough chairs to sit on to take a break, eat, etc. So you end up sitting in an uncomfortable place...dry grass or hard cement. They do have a decent changing area that seems to be kept clean and a decent snack bar, with cool varieties of treats. The Grand Caverns Pool, has went down hill over the past few years. This year was no different. I took a large group up there, without visiting it this summer first. And well, we wont be back. No snack bar, changing area was okay, little if any chairs to sit it, the grass was really dry, hurt your feet to walk from the pool to your blanket area. And no diving boards. I took a bunch of kids up there, most of them love to dive...no diving board.One positive thing is, the pool is a nice size. But I keep in mind...I should have checked first, my bad.

Westover Pool in Harrisonburg, has alot more activities, like slides, diving boards, etc. But for me personally it's too big and too crowded. As I've said before, I take alot of kids and it's nearly impossible for me to keep watch on all of them. In conclusion, I love Broadway Pool. It's very nice, big and has nice diving boards. They have alot of seats, nice snack bar, nice changing area and the floor of the pool is very nice. I cant say the life guards are the friendliest, but I guess they're not there to make friends. All the pools have good prices, so if you want a cheap place to go. And sometimes we pack our lunches, so that helps with cost.

Where ever you go, enjoy your summer, wear sun block and keep everyone safe!! By the way...we're leaving to go swimming now.

*I do not work for any of the above pools, nor the towns there located in. This is just my opinion on area pools.*

Our Veterans Deserve Better

In today's Daily News Record, Harrisonburg, Virginia. There's an editorial about Vets deserving better medical care. www.dnronline.com

These men and women, risked their lives for OUR freedom. They risk their lives, so WE can sit in our comfy house, enjoy satellite tv and have a nice meal. Whether they fought for 1 day, months, years or never made it home alive. They deserve our respect and thanks. My Dad enlisted to go to Vietnam. He's had some rough years and he has more of those years to come. But he has never once regretted going over there to fight. He fought for our freedom just like other soldiers. When he got back home, he was treated like dirt by hippies and war protesters who had the FREEDOM to stand at the airport and the bus station that Dad arrived at. My Dad and alot of others, fought so those people could have the freedom to do that. Sad but true.

Veterans need better health care; physical and mental, better benefits in all areas. Each Veteran needs to wake up each day with the medicine he/she needs and not worry about how they're going to have to pay for the next supply of medicine they need, wake up with a place to live and food they need. They need to know if they have a mental break down, (and it's likely to happen) they will get the help they need without all the "red tape". Which lets face it, slows them down for years.

I have a huge soft spot in my heart for Veterans, but especially homeless Veterans. Alot of people send millions of dollars to other countries helping others with food, physical and health needs and other causes these people find. But what about our Veterans? They're here in your community, but you reach over seas to help others. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying stop helping others. Because it is important to help others in need. But our priority should be on those who fought for us. Some people are so against fighting in the war(s) that they wont even look at a soldier.

This world is hard enough. And the government and some people, treat soldiers as if they have a skunk attached to them. Come on people, our Veterans stood up and fought for us, we owe them so and we can never repay them. Their service was invaluable and without their service, I may not be able to sit here and type all this or wear the clothes I want. I might not be able to go to the church of my choice or choose what religion they want. Next time you see a Veteran or active Soldier, shake their hand and thank them for serving our country. And Thanks Dad!!

Drive-in Movies

My son, cousin and their friends went to the Valley Mall free movie drive-in this evening. And it brought back cherished memories. My parents used to take us all the time. I used to love it. And then when my son was little, we used to take him back to West Virginia because as far as I know that was the only drive-in movies open close by. But I think that shut down a few years later. Not 100% positive about that.

We used to love taking him too. I love the little food stands that you walked over to, the smell of fresh popcorn and the night air. Everything was wonderful. I dont even think it mattered how good the movie was. It was just fun being there. Seeing your friends and family who were sure to be there too. I wish someone would open one here during the warm months. Tighter security of course. When I was little you just didn't worry about all that. My how times have changed. I'm not even that old, but things have changed dramatically.

Anyway, I hope they enjoy the movie and make more memories.

The Story Tellers

My Granddaddy Rhodes used to sit with us on his front porch and tell us all kinds of stories. Not stories you read out of a book. But stories about his life, his parents, grandparents, etc. When we were growing up, like most kids we wanted to go climb a tree or ride bikes, instead of sitting there listening to old stories...some about people we never met. But most of the time we did listen. I think he thought we weren't listening because under his breath he'd say things like "well, if you're not gonna listen or I guess you don't care to hear about your family." Truth is, I was listening, I just couldn't sit still long enough to listen...I still cant.

I love to hear stories about our family. Honestly about anyone's family. That's one reason why I became a Professional Genealogist. My son says it's because I'm nosey, but I guess it goes with the territory. I want to know everything about everyone, especially about your family. If you meet me, I'm gonna ask you about you and your family clear back as far as you know and where they're from. I want to hear your family story.

Think about this; it's important that at this moment you be the story teller. Just as you parents were, just as your grandparents were and so on. You're kids, nieces, nephews, etc. will act like they're not listening. And some might not be, but most will be listening in their own way. Most will go to school and tell their friends the story, they might even write a report about it. Once you have the stories in their heads, they don't forget them. They'll grow up and tell their kids and grand kids.

This is how your family legacy is kept alive. You don't have to come from a famous family and your family doesn't have to be rich. The stories that keep your family going, are exactly that....stories that kept your family together, that got your family through hard times, memories your family made during good times and bad. It's especially fun for a kid, when they hear about the family member they act like. I tell my niece (brother's little girl) and my kids about my brother growing up, and they hoot, holler and laugh. My son acts exactly like my brother, so he's especially curious with all the stories.

Keeping your stories alive, is keeping your family history alive. Once they are no longer told, your family history disappears. After a few generations...the gap is so wide and the stories no longer can be told.

Be the storyteller in your family.

Parental Forgiveness

So many times other kids hurt your own kids and it seems that the parents have a harder time
forgiving the other kid, than your own kid does. I know I do. I know if other kids hurt my kids, forgiveness and forgetting is a long way off. But how are we to teach our kids forgiveness, when our own hearts don't follow that rule at times? And can a parent truly ever forgive someone that hurt their kids? As a mother, I find it quite hard at times to do this. Like my Mom, I've always been super over protective of my kids. Even now, my brother, sister and I are all grown up and she's still the same way. I'm not complaining, just stating a fact. So because of our love and strength for our kids, it's hard.

I found that I do eventually forgive. I just don't trust that kid(s) enough to allow my kids with that person(s). Trust me, I've been tested during last school year. So I did learn...I do forgive, I just don't trust anymore.

So what if my kids hurt someone? And their parents react like I would. How do I deal with that? Well, I pray that those kids will forgive my kids eventually. But I have to remember that their parents will have the same "trust" issues as I do. So I try (key word being try) to remember that they need time too. And I try not to let my anger set in too deep. Eventually, it all works out in God's time.

As parents we need to remember to forgive those who hurt our precious gifts from God. But we also need to be patient with other parents. In our lifetimes, we will be hurt, we'll actually be hurt alot. And we will also hurt others, maybe a lot too.

To Our Youth

"Don't let others influence you, be an influence to them"

My drive today

Now a days with gas prices so high, I only go where necessary. But when I do go, I always check out the scenery. Since I was born and able to comprehend things. My parents, grandparents and aunts & uncles have always stressed how important it was to enjoy God's beautiful earth. Where we live, we're surrounded by mountains. Everywhere you look there are mountains. We grew up with stories on how the mountains protect us, but especially how beautiful they are. Everyday we would go out and my family would point out how beautiful everything was. We could look at the same thing every single day, but they always pointed out the beauty. Especially my Mom. She was very persistant that we appreciate what God created.

So of course now, I do the same thing with my kids, cousins, nieces and nephews. Where we live, we have a complete view of the mountains, absolutely breath taking to wake up to. And when we go everyday I make sure the kids look at the beautiful mountains. And it's so amazing that each day the mountains look different. Sometimes they look bigger, smaller, darker, taller, etc. But each day my kids and I take the time to admire what God created, just as I was taught. And I pray that my kids will do the same with their kids.

I can remember on several trips to Florida. I love Florida, I love the beach....but I was so happy to see our mountains when we hit Virginia. And I thank God everyday for giving me the grace to live in our beautiful area. Even if you dont live here....learn to appreciate what God created.

Storms in the Valley

We live in the western part of Rockingham County, Virginia. And over the past few years our thunderstorms and lightning storms have increased dramatically. And just over the past few days we've had storm after storm. Yesterday it started storming around 1:30 P.M. EST and it didn't stop until about 6:P.M. and that was constant rolling thunder and lightning. It took a couple hour break and started again after we had gone to bed. But this time it was worst. I had almost started thinking a tornado might be headed our way. These aren't whimpy storms. These are almost deadly and scary storms.

Today brought the same activity. After church it stormed for about 3 to 4 hours and it stopped. But now as I type this I hear thunder rolling in. I love storms and I love watching them. But for the past few years, we've had storms that have actually scared me. I've always taught my kids to be safe around storms and take cover. They've always been given all the safety instructions for all the weather that may come our way. But also not to be afraid of the storms. Lately that's hard to live by, when they [storms] get scarier each year.

So I'm wondering where are these storms coming from and why are they getting worst? I have a lot of family in Missouri, usually I watch their weather online. If they have storms coming, I know we have storms coming.
What do you think? Some say it's Biblical and some will say it's scientific.

Are we the next big city?

Down here in Rockingham County and Harrisonburg City, Virginia. We're not a real big city, but
we are growing. When the college kids leave for the summer that promotes a sigh of relief if only for a few short months.

I have family all over the United States. When out of town family comes to visit, they're amazed with our area. They love everything about it. They even call our area a "small town". I have to laugh because it's not small to me anymore. It's growing quickly, even when the college kids aren't here. Alot of people in Harrisonburg welcome the growth and then alot of other people criticize the city of Harrisonburg for trying to grow too much too fast. I feel we are growing too fast and too big. I don't want to look or be like Northern Virginia or Richmond. I have family in both places. I know what it's like. My husband drives truck up there, he doesn't enjoy it too much. Don't get me wrong there's plenty of nice people up there in Northern Virginia and down in Richmond. But both areas are congested and too many people. I dont live in the city area, I live out in the country. But I have to deal with the city everyday. It's not fun.

So Harrisonburg please stop the growth. If it's for the money, find other ways to make money. If it's for the honor and glory of being "big"....our area is filled with honor and glory. Check out our history, we don't need help in that area. Check out our mountains, we don't need help in that area. Check out our beautiful towns and our country side. We have so much to offer. Good food, great people and absolute beauty!

Still Undecided?

I have to say, I'm still undecided about who to vote for in November for President. I've been a Republican forever. But the caos that this country is in, even down to a county level. I'm afraid to vote for Republicans. My mind is leading towards one side as of now, but with lots of prayer I'll see where God and my heart leads me.

This year are you gonna vote on the party you always vote for, lean the other way or what are your plans?

Family in the Shenandoah Valley

I was born and raised in Rockingham County, in the Heart of the Shenandoah Valley. It's beauty is overwhelming and the people here are kind and courteous. If we wave to ya, dont get worried or scared, there's no hidden agenda. Just wave back! Most families live all of the United States, only seeing eachother maybe once a year. They visit eachother through phone calls, email and now a days, blogs. But in this area alot of families and their immediate family stay right here. We are a very family oriented. God, church, family and friends are all on the top of our lists.

Tell me about your wonderful experiences of living here, being raised here or visiting here. I challenge you today to find something in this area that you've never visited or experienced and go out and enjoy it.