Yesterday was one week since the accident. Our daughter drove to her 50-minute-away-hairdressing-academy alone for the first time since the accident. She was scared out of her mind but she did it and I couldn't be more proud.
People have prayed. I mean really prayed. Not the "I'll pray for you" but then never really prayed type of thing that I am often guilty of. I really don't mean to be that way. I honestly forget. I need to get better at remembering and praying because prayer does work. It sounds cliche to say that but it really does work.
Do you mind if I pray right now? I didn't think you'd mind!
Heavenly Father,
I just come to you now with a heart full of thankfulness. Thankfulness for what You have done and what You will do in our lives. You have such a wonderful plan for each of us and I pray You may help us to recognize it and obey Your calling. Give us the strength, courage and endurance to run this race for You.
I pray now for Sarah as she is driving to school right now. I thank you for sparing her life, Lord. I thank You for the safety of the other driver as well. As Sarah drives to school right now, please help her to replace the fear with courage and the knowing of You are her strength and she can do all things with You by her side. Help her to recognize You in the van with her this morning and give her a sense of Your peace. Thank you, Lord.
There are so many hurting people in the world. Reveal to us the people in our lives who may have a hidden hurt. Help us to speak your words to them in a loving way. Help us to remember to pray for others.
Thank you for your kindness and love.
In Your name we pray, Amen.
I'm linking this with Emily at Chatting at the Sky. She has Thankful Tuesdays which are fun to read. I didn't realize when I started this post this morning how thankful I really am. Travel over to her blog today!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
What a Way to Start the Week
"Mom, I was just in an accident."
I gasped as I could feel blood race away from my tingling face. (She is fine. Sore but fine.)
We live in what some would call the country. We have a farm fields all around and 2 lane square mile roads. We have 2 way and 4 way stops with extra care to be taken when corn is tall.
Writer Daughter, who I will now call Cos Daughter in this post, was starting her 50 minute trip yesterday morning to a city to continue her education in the Cosmetology field. The phone rang not long after she left and caller ID told me it was Cos Daughter. Thinking she must have forgotten something and would be asking me to get and have it ready for her, I answered the phone. When she said those words I really did try to stay calm. Except my heart and my breathing didn't get that memo!
Cos Daughter did tell me during the call the location and the fact she blacked out after the crash. What happened? Less than a mile from our house (yes, you read that right) is an intersection where those who are traveling east or west must stop at the stop sign. side note: our neighbor's son was killed at that exact corner approx 15 years ago If you are traveling north or south (which is our road), then you have the right of way. Cos Daughter had the right of way. The other girl didn't. The other girl DID stop at the stop sign but then proceeded to cross the road RIGHT in front of Cos Daughter. Cos Daughter slammed on the brakes and hit the car. She didn't have time to even slow down. She was that close to going through the intersection. Cos Daughter hit the other car by the front driver's tires. Air bag deployed and she couldn't see. The brake pedal went to the floor and next thing that she knew she hit a tree and blacked out. However, hitting a tree did not come up in the short conversation we had before I tore out of the house to get to the scene.
Cos Daughter was out and walking when I arrived. And my heart started to beat normally again....key word, start. Soon after, the deputy sheriff and emergency personnel started to arrive. I honesty remember hearing sirens in the distance but do not remember the sound after that. After telling her she HAS to go to the ER, off we go. Her way being announce with lights and sirens and me speeding after them.
She is fine. Physically sore and her left knee bothers her. However, we truly believe God had an angel in there with her. No burns or bruises from the air bag which hit her in the face. No seat belt burn. She was going 55, no time to slow down and she hit a tree head on. Head. On. We are praising God for His encasement of protection. He is an awesome God.
Mentally, she could use your prayers. Understandably, she is scared to drive. Her heart beats quickly while driving. She has had some flashbacks and remembers the deafening noise of the crash. Pray for peace and to overcome the fear.
The other girl is fine. The van, totaled. Having our daughter living and breathing, priceless!
What a way to start the week. It was the scariest thing I've ever experienced. But, thank you, Jesus, for our daughter's safety yesterday! Praise God from Whom ALL Blessings Flow!
I gasped as I could feel blood race away from my tingling face. (She is fine. Sore but fine.)
We live in what some would call the country. We have a farm fields all around and 2 lane square mile roads. We have 2 way and 4 way stops with extra care to be taken when corn is tall.
Writer Daughter, who I will now call Cos Daughter in this post, was starting her 50 minute trip yesterday morning to a city to continue her education in the Cosmetology field. The phone rang not long after she left and caller ID told me it was Cos Daughter. Thinking she must have forgotten something and would be asking me to get and have it ready for her, I answered the phone. When she said those words I really did try to stay calm. Except my heart and my breathing didn't get that memo!
Cos Daughter did tell me during the call the location and the fact she blacked out after the crash. What happened? Less than a mile from our house (yes, you read that right) is an intersection where those who are traveling east or west must stop at the stop sign. side note: our neighbor's son was killed at that exact corner approx 15 years ago If you are traveling north or south (which is our road), then you have the right of way. Cos Daughter had the right of way. The other girl didn't. The other girl DID stop at the stop sign but then proceeded to cross the road RIGHT in front of Cos Daughter. Cos Daughter slammed on the brakes and hit the car. She didn't have time to even slow down. She was that close to going through the intersection. Cos Daughter hit the other car by the front driver's tires. Air bag deployed and she couldn't see. The brake pedal went to the floor and next thing that she knew she hit a tree and blacked out. However, hitting a tree did not come up in the short conversation we had before I tore out of the house to get to the scene.
Cos Daughter was out and walking when I arrived. And my heart started to beat normally again....key word, start. Soon after, the deputy sheriff and emergency personnel started to arrive. I honesty remember hearing sirens in the distance but do not remember the sound after that. After telling her she HAS to go to the ER, off we go. Her way being announce with lights and sirens and me speeding after them.
She is fine. Physically sore and her left knee bothers her. However, we truly believe God had an angel in there with her. No burns or bruises from the air bag which hit her in the face. No seat belt burn. She was going 55, no time to slow down and she hit a tree head on. Head. On. We are praising God for His encasement of protection. He is an awesome God.
Mentally, she could use your prayers. Understandably, she is scared to drive. Her heart beats quickly while driving. She has had some flashbacks and remembers the deafening noise of the crash. Pray for peace and to overcome the fear.
The other girl is fine. The van, totaled. Having our daughter living and breathing, priceless!
What a way to start the week. It was the scariest thing I've ever experienced. But, thank you, Jesus, for our daughter's safety yesterday! Praise God from Whom ALL Blessings Flow!
Monday, September 20, 2010
Methinks 'Tis A Very Good Book Indeed
Jody hooked me within the first chapter. I mean, really, what mom wouldn't be hooked by the main character, Elizabeth, trying desperately to help a poor babe whose mother just died. Come on, moms, are you with me on that one?
What really struck me about Elizabeth was her commitment to obey God's calling no matter what the cost. How many times have I said, "Umm, God, are You sure that is what I'm to do? Because if I am really hearing what I think You are saying, other people are going to think I'm nuts!" The Preacher's Bride really had me thinking about issues and how I would react. Would I react in my selfish ways or stand up and stand firm?
The following is from Bethany House (publisher) website. I thought it does a better job than I ever could in describing the story line.
This fall debut author Jody Hedlund delivers an emotionally powerful story that will tug at readers’ hearts. Fascinated with history—and the courageous lives of heroes of the faith—Hedlund pens a dramatic and moving portrayal of people determined to follow God’s will in the face of persecution.
“This story is inspired by real people and real events,” says Hedlund, who, while doing research, was touched by the story of Elizabeth Bunyan—wife of Pilgrim’s Progress author John Bunyan. “But it’s also a tale of Christians facing persecution for their beliefs.”
Yet The Preacher’s Bride is not a fictionalization of the Bunyan’s lives. It’s a story unto its own, compelling and captivating while also insightful and thought-provoking, delving into the difficult decisions and lessons every Christian must undergo.
“God wants to use our hardships to develop our holiness. Sometimes He will lead us down a difficult path or ask us to do hard things, and He doesn’t want us to avoid them for the easy way,” says Hedlund. “Ultimately He uses those difficulties to shape our character and deepen our love for Him.”
It’s also a story that rings true on a personal note for Hedlund.
“Through my own personal struggles, God has emphasized that I need to continue to live a life of obedience to Him and walk the difficult path,” she says, adding that this is what her characters ultimately learn, as well—no matter the consequences.
With a moving plot, a sense of intrigue, and a sweet romance, The Preacher’s Bride is a perfect book club pick and an ideal read for fans of Lynn Austin, Liz Curtis Higgs, and Francine Rivers.
In 1650s England, a young Puritan maiden is on a mission to save the baby of her newly widowed preacher—whether her assistance is wanted or not.
Yet Elizabeth Whitbread’s new role as nanny takes a dangerous turn when John Costin’s boldness from the pulpit makes him a target of political and religious leaders. As the preacher’s enemies become desperate to silence him, they draw Elizabeth into a deadly web of deception. Finding herself in more danger than she ever bargained for, she’s more determined than ever to save the child—and the man—she’s come to love.
I strongly recommend you RUN out and buy this book!! (The author nor her publishing house is paying me to say this...I just think it is a great story!) Official release date is Oct 1. However, it is showing up in stores sooner and you can order online.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Chicken & Noodle Time
This recipe is so quick and easy, you'll send me money for posting it for you!! (hint, hint) ☺
The "creative" title is Mom's Chicken and Noodles. Except it isn't my mom's recipe. Heck, I don't even think they made Ramen noodles when my mom was still alive. So, therefore I will call it....wait for it......
Easy Peasy Chicken & Noodles (creative don't you think?!) ☺
4 pkgs chicken flavor Ramen noodles (found in grocery stores everywhere)
3 c. water
3 small cans Swanson's white chicken meat (I just use what I have here at home and eyeball what I think our family would like)
1 (6 oz) pkg cream cheese softened
Peas
Cook the noodles in the water for the amount of time on the pkg. Add season packets frm the noodles and stir. Stir in chicken and cream cheese. If mixture is too thick, add a little water. Serve plain or with toasted bread cubes.
Peas: heat some water, dump in peas. Cook until desired tenderness. (☺ I had to add peas as a side dish or my new "creative" title would have been just dumb! heeheehee!!)
Slap on a plate, say a prayer and eat!
The "creative" title is Mom's Chicken and Noodles. Except it isn't my mom's recipe. Heck, I don't even think they made Ramen noodles when my mom was still alive. So, therefore I will call it....wait for it......
Easy Peasy Chicken & Noodles (creative don't you think?!) ☺
4 pkgs chicken flavor Ramen noodles (found in grocery stores everywhere)
3 c. water
3 small cans Swanson's white chicken meat (I just use what I have here at home and eyeball what I think our family would like)
1 (6 oz) pkg cream cheese softened
Peas
Cook the noodles in the water for the amount of time on the pkg. Add season packets frm the noodles and stir. Stir in chicken and cream cheese. If mixture is too thick, add a little water. Serve plain or with toasted bread cubes.
Peas: heat some water, dump in peas. Cook until desired tenderness. (☺ I had to add peas as a side dish or my new "creative" title would have been just dumb! heeheehee!!)
Slap on a plate, say a prayer and eat!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
♪Feelings, Nothing More than Feelings♫
I do realize by the title I am showing my age. And you can thank me later when you cannot get that song out of you head...just like I can't at the moment!! ☺
I've been thinking a lot (gasp!) about how we treat one another. Let me tell you, I've been showing an enormous amount of the uglies lately. At home, at work, at Wal-Mart (but can you really blame me on that one?! ☺) , at....well you get the picture. And, by the way, what ever happened to customer service?!
But God wants me to love. Remember that little ditty in the Bible? "And the greatest of these is love." (1 Cor 13) Okay, Okay, I get it. Love. But some people are just so hard to love is the arrogant thought which runs through my stubborn head. It could very well be the un-customer service person is just having a rotten day. Or maybe one too many people yelled at him/her for something that had nothing to do with him/her. Yet, I feel entitled to feel grumpy toward him/her just because I didn't get a friendly hello or he/she didn't take me to the isle to help me find something. Wow, bad case of the uglies! And no showing of grace. Sigh. Sometimes those feelings just really get in the way of how God wants us to treat one another.
Don't get me wrong. God gave us feelings for a reason. However, when those feelings of entitlement for myself come along, I'm sure those feelings are not the love God talks about.
I've been slowly reading a book called "Becoming More Than A Good Bible Study Girl" by Lysa Terkeurst. I'll wait here while you run out to buy it!! It. Is. Good. In one of her chapters, it talks about the uglies we have. It was a very timely read for me. I won't spoil it for you but it has something to do with praise and thankfulness.
Sure we will all have bad days. Awful days. That is where change, grace and forgiveness come into play.
I'm trying. I'm really trying to love people at work, at home, at Wal-Mart, at..... Wanna join me in looking at everyone with love? It won't be easy, but if we can accomplish it, what a better world it will be.
I've been thinking a lot (gasp!) about how we treat one another. Let me tell you, I've been showing an enormous amount of the uglies lately. At home, at work, at Wal-Mart (but can you really blame me on that one?! ☺) , at....well you get the picture. And, by the way, what ever happened to customer service?!
But God wants me to love. Remember that little ditty in the Bible? "And the greatest of these is love." (1 Cor 13) Okay, Okay, I get it. Love. But some people are just so hard to love is the arrogant thought which runs through my stubborn head. It could very well be the un-customer service person is just having a rotten day. Or maybe one too many people yelled at him/her for something that had nothing to do with him/her. Yet, I feel entitled to feel grumpy toward him/her just because I didn't get a friendly hello or he/she didn't take me to the isle to help me find something. Wow, bad case of the uglies! And no showing of grace. Sigh. Sometimes those feelings just really get in the way of how God wants us to treat one another.
Don't get me wrong. God gave us feelings for a reason. However, when those feelings of entitlement for myself come along, I'm sure those feelings are not the love God talks about.
I've been slowly reading a book called "Becoming More Than A Good Bible Study Girl" by Lysa Terkeurst. I'll wait here while you run out to buy it!! It. Is. Good. In one of her chapters, it talks about the uglies we have. It was a very timely read for me. I won't spoil it for you but it has something to do with praise and thankfulness.
Sure we will all have bad days. Awful days. That is where change, grace and forgiveness come into play.
I'm trying. I'm really trying to love people at work, at home, at Wal-Mart, at..... Wanna join me in looking at everyone with love? It won't be easy, but if we can accomplish it, what a better world it will be.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Found By You
(The song starts at about 3:50)
Lyrics:
I'm a little girl
And I'm just trying to figure out this funny world
It's so big
It's got me running around
I just wanna be found by You
Chorus:
Jesus
I just wanna be found by You
Jesus
I just wanna be found by You
See, I
I'm not ashamed
Of being small enough to fit inside Your hand
Take Your cup
And let Your love abound
'Cuz I just wanna be found by You
How will I know if I'm alive if I'll survive
Without Your Spirit inside to guide me
Alone You're making me strong
I'll never feel alone as long as I belong
To You and Your Son
You're the only One I'll ever need
And I just wanna be
I just wanna be
Your little girl
I don't have to figure out this crazy world
Britt Nicole & Brandon Heath ~~ Found by You
On Britt Nicole's album: Acoustic
On Britt Nicole's album: Acoustic
Lyrics:
I'm a little girl
And I'm just trying to figure out this funny world
It's so big
It's got me running around
I just wanna be found by You
Chorus:
Jesus
I just wanna be found by You
Jesus
I just wanna be found by You
See, I
I'm not ashamed
Of being small enough to fit inside Your hand
Take Your cup
And let Your love abound
'Cuz I just wanna be found by You
How will I know if I'm alive if I'll survive
Without Your Spirit inside to guide me
Alone You're making me strong
I'll never feel alone as long as I belong
To You and Your Son
You're the only One I'll ever need
And I just wanna be
I just wanna be
Your little girl
I don't have to figure out this crazy world
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