Tammy's Blog

Ryan is 21!!!!

2009-07-17T22:45:00.004-04:00

I figured since it had been a while sense I had posted anything, today seemed like the best time. Our son, Ryan is 21 today. Ryan wasn't sure he wanted to come into the world 21 years ago, but with time and some help for the Dr. he did finally come. Our family was complete, well for me anyway.

I am sure that Todd would have wanted another little one but for me I was finished.

To say the least, we are very proud of Ryan, he recently finished

the ISOM (international school of ministry) certificate that our church was facilitating. He is an honest and considerate young man. God has been faithful in his life. From the moment he was born there have been times of great challenges for him. When he was born he needed oxygen to wake him up, he had the cord wrapped around his neck. He fell down the stairs in his walker when he was only 9 months old. He had his challenges in school, but most of all God has been faithful in is 21 years.

We believe God has some great assignments for his life, missions is a big thing for Ryan. He went on his first missions trip a year and a half ago to the Philippines. He loved every minute of it, and I do believe he plans to go on another one soon.

So today, I honour my son Ryan.

Happy Birthday and may you dream big and may they all come true!!!!!!!!!

Ambitions and Dreams!!!

2009-03-17T22:32:00.002-04:00

Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart!!!!!!!!

I have had a dream for a very long time. I wondered if it would ever come to past.

Over and over there would be confirmations, but I still waited. This was one of those dreams that you take off the shelf and then put back on the shelf and wait and then wait some more.

Well, the time has come and my dream is about to come true. I am heading to Westport, Ont. tomorrow to record my very first CD. Yes, it's true, I can hardly believe it myself.

God has brought some wonderful and talented people into my life that have made this truly possible.

Dan Cutrona and Andrew Martin will be producing it and of course John Wendling has been the P.R. man. Of course, how could I forget my loving and faithful husband. God knew that I could not have done any of this on my own. Dreaming was about as close as I could come to making this a reality. They just put it all into action. Thanks so much guys... It has all come together so quickly!!!!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and don't trust in your own understanding but in everything acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths. Prov.3:5-6. (My life verse)

Interesting Fortune cookie sayings.......

2009-02-14T22:35:00.003-05:00

A while ago Shari put some fortune cookie sayings on her blog along with some interesting ones from Vicki's too, and if we ever had any interesting ones. Well, my husband Todd and I went out for chinese tonight for a Valentine's supper. Here are the fortune cookie sayings that we got tonight.........

Mine was, "You can be a victor without having victims."

Todd's was "When you have no choice, mobilize the spirit of courage."

How true is that, so we always have a choice even when we think we don't, have courage when life seems to be throwing us curve balls!!!!!

We are Victor's not Victim's!!!!!!

I must admit we have has some interesting fortune cookie sayings over the years.

God can keep secrets!!!!

2009-02-07T09:54:00.006-05:00

Well, here are some pictures from our vacation in Mexico. We had a great time and the extra special surprise was that our best friends of over 20 years were there. They were able to keep it a secret and we had absolutely no clue that they were able to come.

I say that God can keep secrets because usually I can pick up on surprises and usually know about them and God didn't give me any insight at all. Julie and I raised our kids together and we have been through probably every milestone together. It was so fun to just "have fun" together. I highly recommend it to everyone.

I just want to thank Roger and Julie for surprising us and finally after all these years going on vacation together. Here's to more vacations and other milestones together!!!!!

This one is for Rhonda!!!!!!

2009-01-07T11:58:00.004-05:00

I just want to say thank you to Rhonda, she posts some great recipe's. I know their not her own but she inspires us that don't bake, to bake!!!! Me being one of them.
So in saying all that, I took the liberty of taking a picture of some muffins that I baked this morning from the recipe (banana muffins) that Rhonda posted a couple of days ago.

Yes, yes I know you're shocked. Shari, I hope you didn't fall off your chair!!!!
Don't my muffins look Great!!!!!! LOL!!!!!
Hope to do another post soon...... keep watching!!!!!!!

Home For Christmas

2008-12-18T10:06:00.004-05:00

Well, this year is a year of Firsts for our family. First time we have a son-in-law, first time our daughter is not a home and first time we are not traveling to my parent's home for Christmas. Now to give you a better understanding of this, we have traveled every Christmas for 23 years. Yes, we are starting new traditions after all this time. It was bound to happen, with work schedules and just getting tired of driving we are staying home.

I have mixed emotions about but I know with great friends and my family around me I am sure we will make some new and wonderful memories.
From my home to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!!!

Bling n Things

2008-11-26T14:31:00.003-05:00

Well, here it is..... Ashley and Haley's store, Bling n Things.
It open Nov 1st. They are doing well, lots of learning curves along the way.
Such a big jump but God has given them the courage and strength to do it.

Just in case your wondering, Stirling is have a moonlight shopping Thursday and Friday. So if you haven't had a chance to go this may be a great time to go out. You even might find the gift for the person that has everything.

Blessings to them both!!!!!!

Happy Birthday Ashley!!!!!

2008-09-25T09:50:00.005-04:00

It's hard to believe or even say it but Ashley, my oldest is 22 years old today. I can still recall the day she was born like it was yesterday. We were living in Peterborough, on Water St. Not the best location, however it was our first home together. (Todd and I) Todd had just gotten home from work and I had been punky all day. I just got up to figure out what we were having for supper and my water broke. I instantly panicked, ran to the bathroom and cried. I was not sure if I was ready but I didn't have a choice in the matter.

We had a lovely couple near by that had become our adoptive parents, she told Todd it was probably wise to get to the hospital. So away we went, I was quite uncomfortable but not in a lot of pain yet. As we made our way to the hospital we seemed to not be going very fast. Todd turned to me and said "don't panic, but we just ran out of gas". Don't panic, ok........ I yelled at him to get out of the car and find someone to take us to the hospital, so he did. This angel from heaven came to our rescue and drove us to the hospital. She was quite nervous because as she was trying to turn around she hit the curb. OUCH!!!!!!

After I got all settled in Todd then left to go get the car. So here I was all alone in the hospital, now you have to understand something I was only 17. Yes, it's true, now you know why I look so young that's because I am!!!!!! Needless to say the nurses weren't sure what to do with me, they weren't the nicest, that's all I will say about that.
Seven hours after my water broke, she was born. Ashley Kristen Pratt came into this world as a true life form of God's Grace. We were either going to name her Amanda or Ashley, and the first time I say her I knew she was Ashley
.
I could go into more of my journey but I will save that for another time. All I can say is that I am proud to the mother of Ashley even though I am sometimes mistaken for her "sister", like today. We have a relationship that is irreplaceable.

Ashley, be blessed today as you venture into new and exciting times. She also got married this past June and is opening up a business with Haley Robinson and the store's name is "Bling n things". So if your ever driving through Stirling drop in to see them. Just putting a plug in for them!!!!!

Mentality Makeover

2008-09-03T11:00:00.002-04:00

“…Love others as you love yourself” (Galatians 5:14).

What you believe about yourself—your self-esteem, your sense of value, your sense of worth—sets the limits for your life. It sets the limits for your ability to love others the way God intends. The problem that many people have today is they don’t really even like themselves. They constantly focus on their faults and shortcomings and then wonder why they don’t enjoy life or have any enthusiasm or why their relationships aren’t working. Understand that you cannot be negative toward yourself and expect to live a positive, faith-filled life. In order to love yourself so that you can love others, you have to have a mentality makeover. If you’ll get your thinking corrected and start thinking like a champion, like a child of the Most High God, like you’ve been crowned with favor, you’ll be amazed at what will happen. When you change your mentality and allow thoughts of faith and victory to fill your heart and mind, that faith and victory will spill over onto the people around you. When you love yourself the way God loves you, that love will pour out on others as well. As you live and love the way God intends, you will find peace, joy, and victory in every area of your life!

"Joel Osteen devotional"

What a great devotional to start the new season off with. There are tons of people around us that need to know about the love of Jesus. Who better to show them His Love then us. Let's be Jesus to them!!!!!! Who knows what purpose God has for them and also for us.

Be Blessed and be a Blessing!!!!!

Pictures of Zena

2008-08-18T22:44:00.007-04:00

Zena has a thing for shoes....

Her pretty pose!!

Pretty girl.....the Princess's

New Addition!!!!!

2008-08-17T21:19:00.004-04:00

I thought I would send a blog out and let everyone know that we have a new addition to the family............ Tyler and Ashley have a puppy!!!!! Her name is "Zena" the warrior princess. And that she is, Ashley and her are battling over who is the actual princess of the home.

They got her from the Smolder's litter. She is very cute so she has that going for her. I will post pictures at a later date.

Yes, I have a grand-puppy!!!! Sort of a grandma, I just love her.

Happy Birthday RYAN!!!!!

2008-07-17T21:29:00.005-04:00

Well, this day is set apart for our son, RYAN. 20 years ago today I was in labour and finally after 20 hours of labour Ryan was born. It some what of a difficult labour, he did not want to come out. When he did decide to come the umbilical cord was around his neck and he was not conscience. Oh and also he was a nice tint of blue.
He finally came too with the help of oxygen. Needless to say it was a little stressful.
Ryan has had many challenges over the past 20 years of his life. But with the help of the Holy Spirit he has risen to the challenges over and over again. He fell down the the basement stairs when he was only nine months old. He had chronic ear problems which has resulted with hearing damage. He developed Asthma when he was 4 years old. He also was labeled in school as having learning difficulties. However, despite all the obstacles in his way he has pushed through them. He is a kind and loving young man. He works harder than any other 20 year old I know. I know God has big things planned for him, he has a growing passion for missions. And loves spending time with his friend's.
I want to say Happy Birthday to the best son ever!!!!! We are very proud of you Ryan, you've come along way baby!!!!
Blessings to you!!!!!!

Weekend with Friends!!!

2008-07-08T12:51:00.005-04:00

Who would have thought that a weekend away with friends could be so rejuvenating. Well, it was. We went biking downtown Ottawa. The waterfront trails are gorgeous and they go on forever. We went over to Quebec and back.
Couldn't have asked for a better weekend retreat. Lots of fun, great friends and awesome food!!!!!! and some R&R.......

Here we are standing at the museum in Quebec with the parliament buildings in the background.
So I thought I would share with you a little of what we did on the weekend.

Thought for the Day!!!!!

2008-06-24T10:51:00.002-04:00

Say this quote in one of Joyce Meyer's magazines........

It's not our circumstances that makes us so unhappy.

It's our attitude towards our circumstances.

To All My Beautiful Women Friends!!!!!!!

2008-06-19T12:39:00.006-04:00

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.

For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day.

For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.

People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone.

Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms.

As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.

Poem by Audrey Hepburn

THE BIG DAY!!!!!!

2008-06-17T09:11:00.007-04:00

Well, all I can say is I can't believe it's over. All the preparation and now it's over. I think I have recouped, it took a lot out of me last week. Plus, we have a wedding to attend each Sat this month. So July I am wedding out. I have to say though I enjoyed every minute of Ashley and Tyler's wedding, all day I would look at Ashley and think she's getting married, she is married. How did we get here? I remember as a little girl asking me if she will get married, when will she get married. She has always wanted to be a wife. Well now she is.
Shari, take in every moment because it goes by so fast. Enjoy being the MOG!!! (Mother of the Groom.) It truly is one of the most incredible moments in a mother's life, except the day their born.
So without further a due, here are some pictures of this beautiful occasion.........

This car belongs to Wayne Hampton which he drove from Grimsby, Ont. Just to drive Ashley and Tyler around after they were married. Thanks again Wayne!!!!

Mother and Father of the Bride!!!!
Spectacular looking, ( if I do say so myself) :)!!!!!

Best friends for over 20 years!!!!!!
What can I say, they were there for whatever we needed.
Roger and Julie, We love you!!!!!
Here's to the beginning of another stage in our lives, marrying off our children together.

My mother, well what can I say. I don't know what I would have done if my Mother hadn't been here. She is a trooper, she cleaned, fed and kept everyone in line!!!!
Thanks Mom!!!!!!

OF course, there are soooooo many other's that made this day go off with out a hitch, well OK there were some hitches but there were people in place to take care of those things. Thank you just doesn't seem enough in those cases. However, I am so grateful to have people in my life that love and care so deeply. Like Kevin said on Sunday, we are so BLESSED!!!!! and RICH, just by the people in our lives. I love you all so very much and you mean so much to Todd and I. Our lives are fuller because you are all in it. And yes, that means YOU!!!!!!!!!
Blessings and God's best for all of you.
Shari, lets party it up!!!!!!!!!!

Three Days left!!!!!

2008-06-04T15:05:00.005-04:00

Well, as some of you may know our daughter is getting married on Sat June 7th. Yes the time as come when we as parents transition into consultants. Let me tell you it's not a easy transition. We love to be able to tell them what is good and not because we have been there. But like ourselves we had to learn by trial and error.
We are truly blessed to be at this stage of our lives and to be able to release our child into her new life with a partner. What a change that will be. Change is never easy but it does cause us to keep moving and growing. At least for us they will be in the same town, but won't be seeing each other every day.
I decided when I became a mother that I would have a policy that the door of communications were always open. Didn't always like the topics but I knew if I ever closed that door it may never be open again. Through this whole wedding process I found out one thing about our relationship, we are best friends. Now that for me is a huge compliment, I guess I did my job with the help of the Holy Spirit. I have cried, laughed, yelled, walked through a broken heart, and rejoiced with her as she found her life partner. Truly what a blessing it has been to have Ashley has a daughter. From the moment she came into my life God has shown me Grace and Mercy through her.
Some one said to my husband this week, it's when we release them that they truly start walking into their destiny and who they are met to be. So Ashley, be released to run and dance and laugh. May you be blessed far more and go further than we have gone!!!!!!

Reno continues on the P&B home

2008-04-29T15:12:00.003-04:00

Well, were starting to get down to the wire now on the reno. Things are coming together very nicely.
On the weekend my Dad, Tyler's Dad, Uncle Kevin (Tyler's Uncle) and Todd dry walled their back room. They all pitched in and they worked hard. I can't wait to see how everything is going to look once their in.
So as we continue to do some necessary changes I will try to keep up on the pictures. We have less than 6 weeks to go until the wedding so the next little while I may not be blogging as much, but I will try my best because this is a very exciting time and I do want to share as much as I can with you all.
The next big phase is new windows and a bathroom reno!!!!!
I will keep you posted!!!!!!!!

Sweet Fragrance

2008-04-23T12:40:00.004-04:00

For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ which exhales unto God…” (Psalm 42:1).

Did you know that your life is a sweet fragrance to God? Think about how a wonderful aroma affects you personally. When it’s springtime and the flowers are blossoming, everything feels new again. The sweet aroma in the air is a sign that the flowers are fresh and alive. It catches your attention! It makes you want to take a deep breath and partake of the wonderful sweet fragrance. God feels the same way about you! He loves wonderful aromas and when you are living your life to please Him, it’s a beautiful fragrance that captures His attention! Just like the aroma in springtime is a sign that the flowers are alive, the aroma of your life is a sign that Christ is alive in you. It is pleasing to the Father! The next time you experience a fresh fragrance, remember that your life is a fragrance unto God. You can rest in knowing that He is pleased with a heart that seeks after Him. As you continue to seek Him, you’ll be that sweet fragrance and you’ll experience His wonderful hand of blessing in every area of your life.

**from Joel Osteen's daily devotional**

The Shack Book Club

2008-04-17T10:27:00.003-04:00

excerpt from "The Shack"

Almost as if on cue, a blue jay landed on the kitchen windowsill and began strutting back and forth. Papa reached into a tin on the counter and sliding the window open, offered Mr. Jay a mixture of grains that she must have kept just for that purpose. Without any hesitation, and with a seeming air of humility and thankfulness, the bird walked straight to her hand and began feeding.
"Consider our little friend here," she began. "most birds were created to fly. Being grounded for them is a limitation within their ability to fly, not the other way around." She paused to let Mack think about her statement. "You, on the other hand, were created to be loved. So for you to live as if you were unloved is a limitation, not the other way around.".......
"Living unloved is like clipping a bird's wings and removing its ability to fly. Not something I want for you."
"Mack, pain has a way of clipping our wings and keeping us from being able to fly." She waited a moment, allowing her words to settle. "And if left unresolved for very long, you can almost forget that you were ever created to fly in the first place." (Pg, 97)

What an incredible analogy of how we were meant to live as God's children. How truly we are to live, to be loved and to love. But unfortunately life has sometimes clipped our wings and we don't live up to our full potential of what God has designed for us. Are there things in your life that have been unresolved? Have you forgotten how to fly?

Matt. 6:26 Look at the birds of the air, they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father (Papa) feeds them. Are you not much more VALUABLE then they?

Just for FUN

2008-04-16T15:12:00.003-04:00

What I was doing 10 years ago:
I was babysitting in my home and I had decided to go back to school to become an esthetician. I went to a private school in Richmond Hill.

Five Snacks I enjoy: (not in any kind of order!)
1. Chocolate
2. chips and dip
3. dorito's
4.Chocolate
5. cracker's & peanut butter

Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
1. Pay off debt
2. Buy my husband an Escape (Ford)
3. Go on a family vacation
4. Pay off Ashley and Tyler's house
5. Give a big chunk to the church

Five jobs that I have had:(most recent first)
1. Mommy
2. child care provider in my home
3. Child care assistant at a daycare
4. Esthetician
5. Business owner in my home

Three of my habits:
1. Drink a lot of coffee
2. eat a lot of chocolate
3.watch t.v. more than I should (but not right now because were working on another house)

Bad Habits...
1. worrying
2. checking e-mail (like Holly :) )
3. eat junk food

Five place I have lived:
1. Kemptville, Ontario (where I was born)
2. Peterborough, Ontario
3. Grimsby, Ontario
4. Belleville, Ontario

Five things not many people know about me:
1. Dislike camping, rather hotel it!!!!
2. Not a good organizer
3. Finished my grade 12, 9 years ago
4. Really enjoy working at home, I am a home body.
5. Would love to own a red sport's car!!!!!

Take Refuge in Him

2008-04-15T07:56:00.003-04:00

“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him” (Psalm 34:8).

Where do you take refuge when the storms of life come? Where do you go for comfort and safety? Some people find it easy to turn to their friends, their job, or even a bowl of ice-cream! There’s nothing wrong with any of those things, but God the Father wants us to turn to Him first. He wants us to take refuge in Him. He longs to protect us and defend us and give us His strength. We serve a good God, and when we take refuge in Him, He will pour out His abundant blessing in our lives. Taste and see that the Lord is good today. Taste and see that His promises are good. When you turn to God, the Bible promises that you will find rest and refuge for your soul. No matter what you may be facing today, come to the Father. He will give you His peace and strength, and you’ll live the blessed life He has prepared for you!

from Today's daily devotion by Joel Osteen.

Pratt/Butcher home--part 2

2008-04-13T21:31:00.007-04:00

The front entrance.
Tyler painting the closet!!

YAH!!!
The Kitchen is all painted!!!!

Ashley is hoping she
picked the right colour...
I love it!!!!!

So here are some more pictures of the house. We painted the kitchen and the living room on the weekend. We had a lot of family bonding time. It's amazing how quickly you can paint when there are a lot of hands.

Of course there were coffee breaks in there too......
I have to say Tyler and Ashley are truly blessed, what an awesome opportunity to purchase a house and watch it become their future home.

The Pratt/Butcher Home

2008-04-10T22:19:00.006-04:00

The Kitchen!!!

The Dining Room!!!

The Living Room!!!
The Mom's!!!!

I thought I would share with you some pictures of Ashley and Tyler's house. They have been working on it since they took possession a week ago.
The owner before had lived in this house for 48 years and raised her family of 5 kids. Her husband had died years before, so now the house is having a rebirth. They have ripped up carpets and now will start with the painting. New life, new beginnings, new memories ahead.
Pray blessings, and a full house for the future!!!!! (but not to soon......)

Book Club week One

2008-04-09T15:25:00.002-04:00

Well I know that I am a little late in posting my thoughts on our Book club. We are reading the book "The Shack" by William Young and it started last Wed night and we will be meeting every other Wed night. We had 11 ladies out and the discussion was so good. The things we got out of the first couple of chapters were amazing.
I asked Maureen if she could right down a few thought on how the evening went and what we got out of it. So here are a few of her thoughts. Thanks, Maureen for your insight.

Nature vs Nurture perhaps will be apparent as we delve deeper.

I also thought and I agree with Julie that Mack was a religious man a pharisee of sorts.

Book smart but not life smart in the sense of a personal relationship with God however Nan was just the opposite her relationship was purely personal.

Her comfort in knowing The Father as Papa kinda like Gary calling God Daddy.

I think Mack loved her way of worshiping but was conditioned as we all may have been growing up.So he clung to her freedom in Christ to get him through the Great sadness.

Stay tuned, I am sure there will be other comments to blog. So if your reading this book but can't make it out to our discussions please feel free to comment at anytime. Look forward to hearing what you get out of this book.

Happy Reading!!!!

HAVE FAITH.......

2008-03-26T09:04:00.002-04:00

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1).

What are you hoping for in your life today? The Bible says that faith gives substance to the things you hope for. Notice this verse starts by saying, “Now faith…” It’s not “later” faith or “one day” faith. We have to believe that God is working behind the scenes right now. Faith is simply believing that God is a good and faithful God—that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Can you believe that God wants to move in your life, today? Do you believe He can provide for you need, today? Do you believe He can heal your relationships, today? Do you believe He can give you that promotion, today? Whatever you are hoping for, open your heart and expect that God is working on your behalf. Stand strong and declare that victory is already yours. As you face each day with faith and expectancy, you’ll increase in strength and see God’s hand in every area of your life!

**excerpt from Joel Olsteen's devotional......

The Shack

2008-03-23T19:23:00.005-04:00

Well I thought I would just let people know that I am going to be hosting a book club starting in April. A lot have already read the book "The Shack" or are in the midst of reading. If you have already read it that's OK because there is so much in the book to discover that we can together read it again and will probably see more in it the second time around.
So mark April 2 on your calenders and plan to attend. My house starting at 7pm.
It should be a time of exploring our walk with God.
I am going to include some comments about the book that I got off the website. So see you April 2.

**Jason the lord has led us to a small number of life-changing books and this one heads the list. When you close the back cover you will be changed.

Dale Lang, (rockcanada.org), father of student killed in Columbine copycat shooting

**You will be captivated by the creativity and imagination of the shack, and before you know it you’ll be experiencing god as never before. William Young’s insights are not just captivating, they are biblically faithful and true. Don’t miss this transforming story of grace.

Greg Albrecht, Editor, Plain Truth Magazine

I read and wept and slept and read again. I am full of words, inexpressible thoughts, shades and hues of hope and light and joy.

Larry Gillis, pastor/counselor

This is from the author's bio:

These are some of the facts of my life, but they don’t begin to tell the real story. That would take much more room than is available here. The journey has been both incredible and unbearable, a desperate grasping after grace and wholeness. These facts don’t tell you about the pain of trying to adjust to different cultures, of life losses that were almost too staggering to bear, of walking down railroad tracks at night in the middle of winter screaming into the windstorm, of living with an underlying volume of shame so deep and loud that it constantly threatened any sense of sanity, of dreams not only destroyed but obliterated by personal failure, of hope so tenuous that only the trigger seemed to offer a solution. These few facts also do not speak to the potency of love and forgiveness, the arduous road of reconciliation, the surprises of grace and community, of transformational healing and the unexpected emergence of joy. Facts alone might help you understand where a person has been, but often hide who they actually are.

The Shack will tell you much more about me than a few facts ever could. In some ways my life is partly revealed in both characters—Willie and Mack. But an author is always more. I hope that someday we can share a cup of coffee, or for me, an extra hot chai tea with soy. If that happens, and if you want, I will tell you a little more about the bigger story and you can tell me some of yours.

That about sums up my life. For me, everything is about Jesus and Father and the Holy Spirit, and relationships, and life is an adventure of faith lived one day at a time. Any aspirations, visions and dreams died a long time ago and I have absolutely no interest in resurrecting them (they would stink by now anyway). I have finally figured out that I have nothing to lose by living a life of faith. I know more joy every minute of every day than seems appropriate, but I love the wastefulness of my Papa’s grace and presence. For me, everything in my life that matters, is perfect!

God is giving you HOPE today

2008-03-20T12:56:00.004-04:00

“Find rest, o my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him” (Psalm 62:5).

God is constantly planting seeds of hope and victory in your life. He’s constantly trying to deposit His faith on the inside of you. Often times, when we’re anxious and worried, it’s difficult to hear His voice of hope and confidence. But when we stop and quiet ourselves, when we find rest in Him, we will recognize His voice of hope.

You’ll hear Him saying to your heart, “Your best days are still in front of you, you are more than a conqueror, you’re the head and not the tail.” As you receive His hope, it creates a foundation for faith to rise inside your heart. The Bible says that faith gives substance to things hoped for. In other words, your hope gives your faith something to work toward. If the cares of this world have left you frustrated and empty today, make the decision right now to open your heart and allow the Lord to deposit His hope on the inside of you. It doesn’t matter what you are facing today or what’s happened in your past, God wants to give you hope today. He wants to pour out His blessing in every area of your life so that you will live the abundant life He has for you!

**excerpt from Joel's devotional**

Cat and Mouse.....

2008-03-19T18:25:00.004-04:00

Well, our cat is now suffering from post-traumatic stress order. Why you ask? Well our cat has not seen the outdoors her whole life. Well, she as ventured out on to the deck but that is about it. Which brings me to this story. Charlie caught a mouse last night, yes in our HOUSE!!! YIKES!!!!!
I am not very happy about this either. Anyway, she was very jumpy after the whole ordeal. She is very skitish, and is not liking her space being invaded by little rodents. Anyway, I took matters into my own hands, I went today and bought those ultra sonic sound wave thingys you plug in and also bought some of the big gun stuff. Anyway, I am hoping Charlie won't need extensive counseling for the next few years.
Welcome to spring!!!!!!!!!

When you show LOVE, you are showing God to the world.....Part 2

2008-03-19T13:24:00.003-04:00

A few weeks later, I received a letter from that young lady. I had no idea that she had recognized Victoria and me; she hadn't given us any indication that she knew us.
Her letter began by asking, "Do you remember me? I'm the girl who waited on you at what was probably your worst restaurant experience ever?"
I smiled as I read and thought, I know exactly who you are. She went on to tell how she had been raised in a good christian family. They went to church every Sunday, but in her late teens, her family was hurt by a leader in their congregation. Somebody did them wrong. Consequently, the entire family had given up on God and dropped out of church. Over the last year or two, however, they had been watching me on television. The waitress related in her letter, "I told my parents I know those people are real. Something on the inside tells me they're sincere and we need to get back in church."
She continued, "Joel. when you and your wife came in the restaurant, and we got your order all mixed up, most people would have really gotten aggravated and upset, but you two were so nice and kind. And on top of that, you left us that big tip." She said, "That confirmed what I already knew in my heart. I went home and told my parents what happened, and now we've gotten our lives back on track, and we're worshiping the Lord at Lakewood every Sunday morning."

Learn to be good to people. That's one of the best witnesses we can possibly have. Now, when I tip people, I tell Victoria, "We're going to sow a seed into their life. Here's an opportunity to do good." When I leave that place, I want them to be able to say, "That couple sure is generous; they are good people."
The world does not need to hear another sermon nearly as much as it needs to see one. Learn to give your time, your money, and an encouraging word; meet a need.

When you show LOVE, you are showing GOD to the world.

**excerpt from "Become a better You by Joel Olsteen**

When you show LOVE, you show God to the world....

2008-03-18T16:48:00.001-04:00

excerpt from Joel Olsteen's book, Become a Better You!!!

Victoria and I went to a restaurant where we had eaten a number of times before. We practically knew the menu by heart, and we knew exactly what we wanted. When we sat down, we ordered right away. I was hungry, but it seemed to take forever for the cooks to prepare our food. We waited and waited. It didn't make sense. The restaurant wasn't even busy. When the waitress finally brought the food, our order was incorrect. She returned my dinner to the kitchen, and it was another long delay. Finally, I got tired of waiting and began eating off Victoria's plate. It was the worst service that we'd ever had in that restaurant.

When it came time to pay the bill and leave a tip, I thought, God, now you just say what happened. And I know that you're a just God. Surely, you don't expect me to leave a good tip.
Almost immediately, I knew I was wrong. I said, "Okay, God; how about five percent?"
Let me tell you a secret. Don't ever negotiate with God, because you will never win. I said, "Okay, God, how about ten percent, fifteen percent? That's the normal amount. God, you know that's the going rate. I should be able to do that." But I still didn't have any peace. I knew God was saying, "Don't miss this opportunity to do good. Don't miss this opportunity to show MY MERCY." We can be good to people when they're good to us. That's easy. But God wants us to be good to people even when they're not so good to us.

I eventually changed my attitude and thought, I'm not just going to give this girl a tip, I'm going to sow a seed in her life. I'm going to go the extra mile and be good to her. We left a twenty-dollar tip for a thirty- dollar meal. But we did it as sowing a seed.

This is not the end of the story, I will continue it tomorrow.......
Great lesson in this, who in your daily life should you sow a seed? People that you work with, socialize with, go to church with? Stay tuned!!!!!!

What's Your Title?

2008-03-12T11:59:00.003-04:00

A woman named Emily renewing her driver's license at the Transport office was asked by the clerk to state her occupation. She hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself. "What I mean
is, "Explained the clerk, "do you have a job, or are you just a ? "Of course I have a job," snapped Emily. "I'm a Mum." "We don't list 'Mum' as an occupation...... 'housewife' covers it," said the clerk emphatically.
I forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the same situation, this time at our local police station. The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised, efficient, and possessed of a high sounding title like, "Official Interrogator" or "Town Registrar." "What is your occupation?" she probed. What made me say it, I do not know... The words simply popped out. "I'm a Research Associate in the field of Child Development and Human Relations."The clerk paused, pen frozen in midair, and looked up as though she had not heard right. I repeated the title slowly, emphasizing the most significant words.
Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was written in bold, black ink on the official questionnaire! "Might I ask," said the clerk with new interest, "just what you do in your field?"Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice, I heard myself reply, "I have a continuing programme of research, (what mother doesn't), in the laboratory and in the field, (normally I would have said indoors and out). I'm working for my Masters, (the whole bloody family), and already have four credits, (all daughters). Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities, (any mother care to disagree.?) and I often work 14 hours a day, (24 is more like it). But the job is more challenging than most run-of-the-mill careers and the rewards are more of a satisfaction rather than just money." There was an increasing note of respect in the girl's voice as she completed the form, stood up, and personally ushered me to the door.
When I got home, buoyed up by my glamorous new career, I was greeted by my lab assistants -- ages 10, 7, and 3. Upstairs, I could hear our new experimental model, (a 6 month old baby), in the child development programme, testing out a new vocal pattern. I felt I had triumphed over bureaucracy! And I had gone on the official records as someone more distinguished and indispensable to mankind than "just another Mum."
Motherhood.....What a glorious career! Especially when there's a title on the door. Does this make grandmothers "Senior Research Associates in the field of Child Development and Human Relations" , and great Grandmothers "Executive Senior Research Associates"??? I think so!!! I also think it makes Aunts "Associate Research Assistants". Please send this to another Mum, Grandmother, Aunt, and other friends you know.

Author unknown..................but very smart

Have Faith..........

2008-03-11T09:44:00.003-04:00

“According to Your faith, be it unto you” (Matthew 9:29)

A lot of time people think that when they have a need, that if God wanted to, He could just automatically meet it. But Jesus didn’t say, according to your need be it unto you; He said, according to your faith.

That’s why it’s so important to have an attitude of expectancy every single day. If we want God to move in our lives, we have to approach every day filled with faith and hope. The scripture tells us in Romans that “faith comes by hearing the Word of God.” The more you have the Word of God in your life, the more your faith will grow and the more you will see Him working in your life.

God longs to bless you, and He’s given you everything you need to be successful in life. Remember, all things are possible to those who believe! Believe in His goodness today and take a step of faith toward the life of blessing God has prepared for you!

**from Joel Olsteen's devotional**

Snowy Days......

2008-03-09T18:40:00.007-04:00

Ok, so after seeing the pictures on Shari's blog I thought I would post some of my own. Now these are actual pictures taken today (Sunday) of our house and there is one of our neighbours who's car is buried under the snow. (second top left pic.)

I must say it's kind of fun, if only we had little kids we could go tobogganing down some hills. Maybe we'll rent some.....I'm kidding. Hope everyone is digging out ok.

Until next blog, happy shovelling!!!!

Gratitude Saturday

2008-03-08T14:52:00.003-05:00

Well, 22 years ago today, Todd and I were married. We had this much snow for our wedding day. I remember staying at the Westin Hotel in Ottawa, and the snow was falling just like today. Not that I am a fan of the snow but it's good to reminisce.

I am grateful for having a loving husband who makes me laugh on a daily basis.
I am grateful for having two wonderful children.
I am grateful after 22 years we are still in love with each other.
I am grateful that we can look back at the last 22 years and see the adventures and situations that God has been with us every step of the way.
I am grateful to say that we are best friends and enjoy our time together.
I am grateful that we both enjoy traveling together.

I am looking forward to what is ahead for Todd and I, with weddings and some day grand-babies, we will enjoy growing old together.

Ryan's Trip

2008-03-07T14:16:00.006-05:00

Well, Ryan is home!!!! I thought I would post some of his

pictures so that you get an idea of what he experienced.

He arrived home last night or early this morning, I think very happy to see us and be home in his nice warm bed. He did show me the mysterious soars on his knee and elbow. He seems to think they were bed bug bites. YUCK!!!! Just the thought of that gives me the willies.

Anyway, just thought I would share some of his journey with you all. He took some pictures of cars for his dad and he took a couple of pictures of the bathroom that they had to use when they were in Malita. Grace, Grace........

We are proud of Ry, and he had a blast!!!!

Over flowing Blessings

2008-03-04T12:15:00.004-05:00

Our God is a running-over God! He doesn’t want you to just have barely enough to meet your own needs, God wants you to be so blessed that when other people get around you, it overflows onto them! He wants you to be so blessed in your finances that not only can you pay your bills and accomplish your own dreams, but you can be a blessing to others. In the same way that a parent loves to see their children doing well and excelling, God wants you to do well and excel in every area. He takes pleasure in prospering you. But the key is that you have to make room for it in your thinking. You have to expect that He wants to bless you. Take a step of faith today toward the dreams that are in your heart. Begin to thank Him for His abundance in every area of your life. Declare that because you walk in obedience, God’s blessings are going to chase you down and overtake you! Don’t just settle for a “good enough” mentality, develop an overflow mentality, and you’ll see God’s hand of blessing in every area of your life!

Let the Lord be magnified Who takes pleasure in the prosperity of His servant (Psalm 35:27)

The sky is the limit!!!!!!!!!

**excerpt from Joel Olsteen's daily devotional........

Finally have contact....

2008-03-01T22:17:00.003-05:00

Well, after a long week I heard from Ryan. If anyone knows him well, his email was short and sweet. He has been enjoying the hot weather, taking pictures of fish and having a case of the well shall I say it......."the runs"!!!! I am sure he will appreciate me sharing that with all of you. We have sure missed him being around but know that he is experiencing things that will change him forever.
I think there have been a few sick this journey, so continue to pray for them and their health.
Can't wait to here all the stories from the trip!!!!!!

Don't Worry, Be Happy........

2008-02-26T13:33:00.006-05:00

5 Things Happy People Do.....

They find their most golden self: Picture happiness. What do you see? A peaceful soul sitting in a field of daisies appreciating the moment?

They design their lives to bring joy: It may seem obvious, but "people don't devote enough time to thinking seriously about how they spend their life and how much of it they actually enjoy," says David Schkade ( a psychologist)

They avoid "if only" fantasies: If only I get a better job...find a man....lose the weight...life will be perfect.

They put best friends first: It's no surprise that social engagement is one of the most important contributors to happiness. What's new is that the nature of the relationship counts. Compared with dashing around chatting with acquaintances, you get more joy from spending longer periods of time with a close friend......

They allow themselves to be happy: As much as we all think we all want it, many of us are convinced, deep down, that it's wrong to be happy(or too happy). ....just think of how much more you can help the world if you allow a little happiness into your life.

** excerpt from Oprah's magazine, article written by Gabrielle Leblanc.

I thought I would look up the word "HAPPY" it means, enjoying pleasure or good, successful, prosperous, living in concord; satisfied, propitious, felicitous.

Proverbs 11:25 A generous man will prosper, he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

Life Lessons are Priceless.....

2008-02-23T15:16:00.002-05:00

Bill Gates recently gave a speech at a High School about 11 things they did not and will not learn in school. He talks about how feel-good, politically correct teachings created a generation of kids with no concept of reality and how this concept set them up for failure in the real world.

Rule 1 : Life is not fair - get used to it!

Rule 2 : The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself

Rule 3 : You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice-president with a car phone until you earn both.

Rule 4 : If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss.

Rule 5 : Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your Grandparents had a different word for burger flipping: they called it opportunity.

Rule 6 : If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.

Rule 7 : Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you were. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.

Rule 8 : Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life HAS NOT. In some schools, they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life

Rule 9 : Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you FIND YOURSELF. Do that on your own time.

Rule 10 : Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.

Rule 11 : Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one. If you agree, pass it on. If you can read this - Thank a teacher! If you are reading it in English - Thank a soldier

Moments in Time.....

2008-02-22T10:37:00.009-05:00

Well, this is a milestone for me. The first time Ryan has been away for any length of time. He has done well, 19 and this will be his first time flying and on a missions trip. Ryan has had it in his heart for the last couple of years to go to the Philippines. He has a missions heart that is for sure, I have a feeling though that this may be just the beginning for him.

Needless to say, I was up often wondering how he was and where they would all be. He was funny though, anytime I would ask him about anything, he would just say, "it's fine, I'll be fine". I was hovering soooooo bad!! I am still on that journey, it's not an easy one. One child is going across the world and the other is getting married!!! No wonder my grey hair is growing in faster, HELP!!!! I am not old enough for this.

Well, all I can say is bless you to the ones who are coming behind, I will do my best to encourage and help you along the journey.

It's a sweet ride!!!!!

Leave it to the Professionals.......

2008-02-21T11:18:00.003-05:00

Ok, to the faint of heart, just want to let you know that this story may cause you to feel faint. Now, this story was sent to me through an e-mail and thought that because waxing is one of my professional duties I would share this story with you. This is why I have titled this one "leave it to the professtionals"

Also you will have a good laugh!!!! Since our theme for this week is laughter, I thought I would include this story in my blog.

My night began as any other normal weeknight. Come home, fix dinner, playwith the kids. I then had the thought that would ring painfully in my mind for the next few hours:"Maybe I should pull the waxing kit out of the medicine cabinet." So, I headed to the site of my demise: the bathroom. It was one of those"cold wax" kits. No melting a clump of hot wax, you just rub the strips together in your hand, they get warm and you peel them apart and press them to your leg (or wherever else) and you pull the hair right off. No muss, no fuss. how hard can it be? I mean, I'm not a genius, but I am mechanically inclined enough to figure this out. (YA THINK!?!)

So I pull one of the thin strips out. Its two strips facing each other stuck together. Instead of rubbing them together, my genius kicks in so I get out the hair dryer and heat it to 1000 degrees. ("Cold Wax",yeah...right!) I lay the strip across my thigh. Hold the skin around it tight and pull. It works! OK, so it wasn't the best feeling, but it wasn't too bad. I can do this! Hair removal no longer eludes me! I am She-ra, fighter of all wayward body hair and maker of smooth skin extraordinaire. With my next strip I move North.

After checking on the kids, I sneak back into the bathroom, for the ultimate hair fighting championship. I drop my panties and place one foot on the toilet. Using the same procedure, I apply the one strip across the right side of my bikini line, covering half of my *hoo hoo* and stretching down to the inside of my butt cheek ( Yes it was a long strip) I inhale deeply and brace myself...RRRRIIIIPPP!!!!!!! I'm blind!!!!!! Blinded from the pain!!!! OH MY GOSH!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Vision returning, I notice that I've only managed to pull half the strip.) CRAP!!! Another deep breath and... RRRIIPP!!! (Everything is swirly and spotted. I think I might pass out...must stay conscious... Do I hear crashing drums??? Breathe, breathe... OK, back to normal. I want to see my trophy-a wax covered strip, the one that has caused me so much pain, with my hairy pelt sticking to it. I want to revel in the glory that is my triumph over body hair. I hold up the strip! There's no hair on it. Where is the hair??? WHERE IS THE WAX!!!!!????? Slowly I ease my head down, foot still perched on the toilet. I see the hair. Then I make the next BIG mistake...remember my foot is still propped up on the toilet? I know I need to do something. So I put my foot down. DANG!!! (I hear the slamming of a cell door.) My *Hoo-Hoo*??? Sealed shut!! My Butt??? Sealed shut!! I penguin walk around the bathroom trying to figure out what to do and think to myself, " Please don't let me get the urge to poop. My head might pop off!!" What can I do to melt the wax? Hot water!! Hot water melts wax!!! I'll run the hottest water I can stand in the bathtub, get in, immerse the wax-covered bits and the wax should melt and I can gently wipe it off, right??? WRONG!!! I get in the tub - the water is slightly hotter than used to torture prisoners of war or sterize surgical equipment - I sit. Now, the only thing worse than having your nether regions glued together is having them glued together and then glued to the bottom of the tub...in scalding hot water. Which by the way, doesn't melt cold wax. So, now I'm stuck to the bottom of the tub as though I had cement-epoxied myself to the porcelain!!

God bless the man who had convinced me a few months ago to have a phone put in the bathroom!!!! I call my friend, thinking surely she has waxed before and has some secret of how to get me undone. It's a very good converstaion starter~ "So, my Butt and my Hoo Hoo are glued together to the bottom of the tub!!" There is a slight pause. She doesn't know any tricks for removal but she does try to hide her laughter from me. She wants to know exactly where the wax is located, "Are we talking cheeks or hoo hoo?" She's laughing out loud by now...I can hear her. I give her the rundown and she suggests I call the number on the side of the box. YEAH!!!!! RIGHT!!! I should be the joke of someone else's night. While we go through various solutions, I resort to scraping the wax off with a razor. Nothing feels better than to have your girlie goodies covered in hot wax, glued shut, stuck to the tub in super hot water and then dry-shaving the sticky wax off!!! By now the brain is not working, dignity has taken a major hike and I'm pretty sure I'm going to need Post-Traumatic Stress counseling for this event. My friend is still talking to me when I finally see my saving grace... the lotion they give you to remove excess wax. What do I really have to lose at this point?

I rub some on and..."OH...MY...GOSH!!!!!!!!" The scream probably woke the kids and scared the heck out of my friend. It's sooooo painful, but I really don't care. IT WORKS!!! It works!!! I get a hearty congratulations from my friend and she hangs up. I successfully remove the remainder of the wax and then notice to my grief and despair....THE HAIR IS STILL THERE... ALL OF IT!!!!!!!!!! So I recklessly shave it off. Heck, I'm numb by now. Nothing hurts. I could have amputated my own leg at this point.

Above & Beyond.......

2008-02-20T10:48:00.003-05:00

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us…” (Ephesians 3:20).

God is able to do more than you could ever ask or imagine! But notice that this verse says it’s according to the power that is at work within you. How does God’s power work within you? God’s power works in you when you are walking in love. God’s power is at work in you when you choose to forgive those who have wronged you. God’s power is at work in you when you bow before Him with a humble heart. He is at work in you when you are serving others by putting their needs above your own. Remember, God wants to move on your behalf. He loves to bless you! Choose today to let God’s power work in and through you! As you allow Him to work in your life, He promises blessing beyond your wildest dreams! He will do immeasurably more than you can ask or imagine. He’ll cause you to live the abundant life He has in store for you!
**from Joel Olsteen's devotional.

Blessings to you all today!!!!!!!

Are you LOW!!????

2008-02-19T08:22:00.004-05:00

Well girls, I am finally writing this story. Rhonda, Shari, Roxanne and I went to here Mary Audrey Raycroft on Sat over in the county. We decided to go for lunch before heading to the meeting. We found the perfect spot, we went in and settle in for a great lunch. As we sat in the bright eating area, we enjoyed looking at the menu and deciding what would be great for lunch. The server came over and were telling us the fine specials for the day. Well Shari, asked how much one of the specials was. The server said let me check and I will get right back to you, after she left, Shari asked if that was proper to ask what the price was, I said if you have to ask then you can't afford it. She comes back and says, "it comes to $10.17 with tax, are you low"? Well, Shari was stunned and wasn't sure what she meant, do I look like I am having a bad day? The server said, " we can adjust the price if your low". Basically saying that if she didn't have the money to spend on lunch than she could probably work out something for her to have lunch. Well, we had a great laugh about that. The server told us of a couple that had come in for Valentine's day and the man ask everytime they order something how much it was with taxes. How would you have liked for him to take you out? Anyway, after that we decided this was a blog story, I of course grabbed it since I need to blog about something.

So girls I hope I did justice to this story, I think though that it won't be as funny as being there, I think you will agree. It was a great day for having lunch in the county and going to here a great speaker, Great food, fellowship and of course fun. The company was great, and we will have to do that again. Hopefully next time, more can come and join in the fun. So I guess I have to ask, is anyone low?

Laughter, it is good for the soul!!!!!!!

2008-02-08T10:23:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday, Shari.......

I just want to take this opportunity to say what a blessing it is to have you in my life, and how much I appreciate your friendship.

I want to honour you on your "Birth"-day.

I also want to say that "you are blessed among women".

So here's to you Shari..... Be blessed, honoured and cherished today!!!

Love you lots, Tammy

Echos/Reflections

2008-02-07T10:17:00.000-05:00

This is a story about a man and his small son who were hiking up a mountain. Suddenly, the little boy slipped and slid about thirty yards down the mountain side, getting caught in some brush. Unhurt but frightened, he called out, "Somebody, help me!" A voice called back, "Somebody, help me!" The Youngster looked surprised and confused. He said, "who are you?" The voice shouted back, "who are you?" The boy began to get aggravated. "You're a coward!" He yelled. The voice shouted back, "You're a coward". The boy shot back, "You're a fool." The voice repeated, "You're a fool."
By then, the boy's father had reached him and helped extricate his son from the brush. The boy looked up and said, "Dad, who is that?" The father chuckled and said, "son, that's called and echo, but it's also called life." He said, "son let me show you something." The dad shout out, "You're a winner!" the voice shouted back, "You're a winner!" The dad's voice boomed, "You've got what it takes." The voice boomed back, "You've got what it takes!" The dad shouted, "you can make it!" The voice shouted back, "you can make it!"

"Son, that's exactly how it is in life," the father explained. "What ever you send out always comes back to you."

*excerpt from "Become a better You" by Joel Osteen.

Thought for the day.....what messages are you sending out?

Abundant Blessing!!!!!

Refiner's Fire

2008-02-01T13:18:00.000-05:00

I recieved this through an e-mail today and thought that this story would be a great post. What a true picture of who God is. Purify my heart Lord, as pure gold and precious silver........

Be Blessed by this story.....

Malachi 3:3 says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining Silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.

The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver." She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?" He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it."

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has his eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you. Pass this on right now. This very moment, someone needs to know that God is watching over them. And, whatever they're going through, they'll be a better person in the end.

It's been a while.....

2008-01-28T11:44:00.000-05:00

Well, I am back after some time off. I can't believe it's been since June since I have blogged anything. It's true what "they" say, time flies when your having fun.
As most of you know, we have had an engagement in the family. What a time were having, it's like going to a amusement park at times. Going on different rides, experience things we have never experienced before. I must say though, God is Faithful and He is blessing us!!!! Everything is coming together quite nicely. Ashley and Tyler are seeing the faithfulness of God. God's timing in bringing two people together is impeccable.
Ryan is going on a missions trip which he has been wanting to go on for a couple of years now. He is ready for what ever God has for him too. God has been faithful at coming through for this event as well.
Well I leave you with this thought, delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart!!!!!
sorry there are no pics, I'm not sure how to do that. Once I figure it out I will put some on!!!
blessings.......

New Chapter Begins!!!!!

2007-07-05T18:33:00.000-04:00

Well the day finally arrived and Ryan graduated. Yes, this is about a week late reporting on it but I had to get my pictures downloaded and get some from my Dad.
What a challenge it has been for Ryan but with perseverance and determination he did it. Some of you may not know but Ryan had some major hurdles to overcome in school. He was sent from school to school and one year we even took him out of school and home schooled him. Wow!!! I commend you Mom's who home school your children on a full time bases. It was definitely a challenged but it was worth it for Ryan.
What is next, well he will be taking the school of ministry program that is going to be running this fall at our church. After that were not sure but Ryan is very interested in doing a missions trip. We are very proud of our children, Ashley and Ryan both. They are a huge blessing from the Lord!!!!!

CONGRATULATION RYAN!!!!!

Oasis

2007-06-14T12:11:00.000-04:00

Well, I have been saying for a couple of months now that there was going to be an anouncement. As some of you may know already I now have my business in my home. The picture that is up was taken when I was still working on the room. It is now completed and I am now up and running.
Soooooooo.....for all your esthetic needs, you can get me at home. God has been so faithful through this process. And the encouragement and support from my friends and my husband, Todd are so greatly appreciated and I love you all. Shari, I just needed that push to jump and do it. It's like bungee jumping, it's overwhelming and the drop is scary but once you do it, it's exhilerating. I didn't think you could have the best of both worlds. I love being home and I also love what I do, What an honour to get to do both. Which means that I can do coffee with the "girls" more often now too!!!!!!
Proverbs 3:5-6 rings true again and again!!!!!!

I looked up Oasis, and it means a fertile spot in a barren, sandy desert.

My prayer is that it will be a place of new life and hope for all who come to see me!!!
Blessings to all!!!!!

One big family

2007-05-07T18:35:00.000-04:00

This is short and sweet, we have a new member to our blogging group. IT's Maureen!!!!! Yaaaaaaaa!!! You go girl, and welcome.
I still have to figure out how to get some pictures up from my trip but I have had a very busy week and most of you all have too.
Please bear with me as I will post another blog soon. Big news coming!!!!!
Blessings, Tammy

Valued Relationships

2007-04-27T22:35:00.000-04:00

This was today's devotional from "The Word for you Today". I thought this would be a good one to pass on to you all out there in blog land.
"A friend loves at all times." Proverbs 17:17

Dr. John Maxwell writes: "If you want deep, lasting friendship, you cannot always be the strong one. And that can be frightening; especially if you've had someone hurt or manipulate you. But you must let a friend see you in your weakness. Some of us have never done this, and we wonder who we're lonely. We're going to have to get vulnerable to have a true friend.
"Friends serve each other. When's the last time you performed an act of servant-hood for a friend to whom you're devoted? If you can't remember, you're probably living with a core of loneliness. A friend is someone you commit to not because of what they can do for you, but just because they're your friend. And friends listen, even though they're busy. Listening is an act of love. It says "I'm going to put my own agenda on hold and devote myself to knowing and caring for you." Friends are not generally looking for someone who can talk very impressively or cleverly or with great wit. Mostly what they're looking for is a world class listener. Furthermore, when something goes right, friends celebrate. Do you do that? When is the last time one of your friends had God bless them-and you threw a party?
"If you're not in this kind of relationship right now, you can't make it happen, but you can open yourself up to it. You can start pursuing it. You can ask God to guide you. You can take little relational risks. And if you already have friends like this, prize them, protect them, enrich them in every way, and take that friendship as deep as you can".

Here are to my dear friends that I value and cherish. Thank you for your support and encouragement!!!!!
Your loyal friend, Tammy

How many more sleeps?!!

2007-04-13T23:54:00.000-04:00

You know when you were kids and you were excited about going somewhere, maybe a special birthday party or vacation with the family. You would count down the sleeps that were left, maybe you do it with your kids too because they would continually ask "how much longer?"
Well, I am sitting here and I have four more sleeps until I go away to sunny Florida. YIPPEE!!!!
Putting all the fun aside, I am truly amazed in how much God is intimately aquainted with our lives. He knows all about our struggles, joys, fears and dreams. He loves us so much that He truly wants the best for us. He knows exactly what we need before we know we even need it. I am so grateful for that. I have a friend that sent me this little poem that I want to send to you all out there in blog land. You may be needing the encouragement or just to strengthen the fact the God knows all about you, the small and big needs in our lives. As women I think He is even more attentive to those needs.

There is no one else like you,
You have gifts, that only you can give,
You have blessings, others can only receive through you.
The Lord designed every detail of who you are.
He cares about you!!
You are special,
You are loved,
You are YOU!!!!
And the world is blessed to have you in it.
AMEN, Tammy

Friends are friends forever.

2007-04-10T22:48:00.000-04:00

The Gift Of Friends
by Karin Schaefer
There are days when bubbling from us comes the innocent child within,who giggles at the little things and wears a silly grin.There are days when melancholy comes to visit for a while; the mind feels tired, the body weak; we have no strength to smile. There are days when joy abundant grabs a hold of you and me; wraps us up in all it's splendor, lifts us up and sets us free. There are days when sorrow wraps us in its cloak of grief and fear, 'till our hearts ache to the breaking, 'till our eyes can't shed a tear. There are days when love bestows us with its wonderment and light; with its beauty and its mystery, its power and its might. And there are days when life rewards us and seems to make amends by granting us a marvelous gift, the precious gift of Friends.

Just want you all to know how much I appreciate your friendship.
Thank-you. Tammy

I'm Finally Here!!!!!!

2007-04-09T17:35:00.000-04:00

Well, I am finally here. I am feeling rather green, but I hope that by looking at yours I can do it. Cheryl, I finally did it, I will try to get a picture of me with coffee in hand. I can't wait to join the club of bloggers.
Happy blogging, Tammy