A Masterpiece

Surely you expected more baby pictures. This was taken the day after Easter, I believe. No frilly Easter dress yet, but then, we don't know yet whether she will prefer frilly...or not. Her expressions don't appear to be the frilly girl, but we'll just wait and see. Whatever the case may be, she is a masterpiece, for sure. I love her so much and have not yet had the chance to hold her. But the time is coming. I just need to be patient.


Patience is a virtue. And it is one of the most difficult virtues to have. Life forces us to wait and be patient for many things, and it often proves difficult. So what does the Bible say about patience?

These verses on Patience can help you understand why we must wait through trials and tribulations to fulfill God's plan for us.

Psalms 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Romans 5:3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation works patience;

Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

James 1:19 Why, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger

James 5:7 Be patient therefore, brothers, to the coming of the Lord. Behold, the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, and has long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.

James 5:8 Be you also patient; establish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draws near.

If you want to know more, or do not understand some of these verses I have copied from  God Vine, you may go here: http://www.godvine.com/bible/category/patience

Doubly Beautiful

Yes, it was a mistake to post the same picture twice, but she is just too cute. You can't see her too much. So, get a good look at Ava. Both layouts are staying. I'm at a loss to say more right now. I don't see her enough.

These pictures were taken at her grandmother, Bonnie's house.

Now for an opinion. I've been in the pits about the election, more so even this last month. I feel like I'd just like to do what way too many people have done, that is  to just zone out and ignore the whole thing. BUT, we just can't do that. It is critical that we choose a president this time who loves our country and is willing to step up and do what it takes to bring our country  out of dire debt and free small businesses to grow and hire more people. That is not Donald Trump. He is upset with the status  quo, but I'm not sure he can handle the job. Although, I will vote for him, if he is the choice others make.

I like Cruz. He and Carly Fiorina make up the perfect pair to bring us back to work. I understood  them when they were on Hannity's show tonight. He makes sense. It won't do any good to pay the entire cost of college tuition and end up with millions of graduates who can't get jobs because there aren't any. We need to concentrate on making sure there are jobs available for all our graduates. You can't make me believe that all these 'kids'  want to live in mama's basement, when they could make a good life on their own in a good economy. And besides, even mom and dad will go broke as the taxes get higher and higher and people are pushed out of the job market before it is time to retire.

Father and Daughter

Once in a while, I misplace some pictures. Thankfully, most of the time, they show up later. However, sometimes, they show up after I've made the book in which they should have been. That is the case with these two of Greg and Ashley that were taken in December last year. They were much too good to skip, so here they are.

I used a new method, which I truly like,  for the black and white, where I worked with gradients instead of the artist filters. I know, that probably makes no sense to most of you. Just saying...


Well, a comment off the subject, but very much on my mind today. Several of us ladies' were discussing it at lunch and we are  all quite upset by it.

In some areas of the country people, who are extremely easy to take offense, have been crying that they don't feel comfortable going into restrooms (and even locker rooms) which match their God given sex. They prefer to assume there was a mistake and they are the wrong sex, so they have decided to make a change. That's ok with us. It is their lives and this is a free country. However, this less than 1% of the country wants to push it in our faces...literally. Now as much as it frightens us ladies to have persons with male equipment in our restrooms, it is ever worse to think that men will use this permissiveness to enter our private spaces with recording equipment...which has been done, or even worse, to attack us or our children, when we are vulnerable.

Now, imagine locker rooms. Well perhaps you had better not. It is preposterous to think anyone would be so dense as to think we should have to endure their folly.

Sure do all that you want, but keep it to yourself. Keep it out of our faces and those of our children.

Middle Tennessee Anime Convention

I have another layout from the MTAC last month.  I was following instructions as to what all had to be included on the page. I'm sure it would have looked quite different had I started out with my own creativity; but it was fun meeting the challenge.  This drawing  on your right is by Ashley. It is her character, Little Medusa.

Julia Dawn

One of the first things we noticed about Julia is her long fingers. They are just the opposite of my short stubby ones that have so much trouble with the piano, even though I took lessons for 5-6 years. I  could never reach some of the chords. It is definitely a handicap. Julia won't have any trouble like that!

I am so anxious to hold her in my arms and kiss her little cheeks. It won't be long.

National Pet Day

Well, so much for planning ahead to work on my blog earlier in the day. Another busy day,  too much playing to get work done. If I told you all I had to do today, you might laugh and say that is nothing, since I didn't have to go to work and sit at a desk for 8 hours, but my days go soon fast.

It is a good thing that I was able to do this layout yesterday, because I didn't get one done today. 

Not Your Usual Easter Pictures

This past Easter was a little different this year. It was special for Caleb and Oliver because their cousins were here from Ohio. It was also just 20 days after the birth of their little sister, Julia...who didn't get any eggs from what I know... They did their egg hunt in the back yard with Mommy and Aunt Sara watching.

If you've forgotten why we celebrate Easter, it is to acknowledge that Christ  Jesus the Lord died, was buried and rose again from the grave to life, so that we too can look forward to an eternal life with him, if we accept him as our savior and lead a life that proves our faith. That does not mean we will never be sinless, because he one is. We all sin and fault short of what we should do, but if we love God and His son and attempt to live as Jesus did, loving other people as we love ourselves, our Lord will forgive us when we fail him.

This Man's Best Friend

 Think  I had better start blogging earlier in the day and I don't mean 12:15 AM. I am aging and  my brain starts dozing before I know it.  

Just a quicky tonight, so that I can get some sleep. 

I think Ron's hobby has become shopping online.  It is obvious from the number of UPS trucks that visit us each month. And of  course, Amazon appreciates his business.  Broke and happy...;)

Little Medusa

Ashley's Dad, Greg is the show business personality who sparked Ashley's interest in Anime, a form of Japanese cartoons. There seem to be many 'conventions' for celebrating this art form. I believe Ashley and her dad have attended several. This time it happened to be right there in Nashville, which was very convenient. I believe the next one they plan to attend is in Ohio in June. 

For this one, Ashley made her own costume with her mother's help. She is Little Medusa from Soul Eater. Greg  took lots of pictures of her. 

It certainly was a weekend for making memories.

A Happy Heart

Even  though I haven't completed this layout, it is here on the blog tonight, because it is the only one I took time to do today...I want to share these pictures that were taken in the back yard of her grandmother's house. I'll finish it later.

The little cheerleader outfit is really cute and descriptive of this happy little girl. Yes she could look a little more happy in the pictures. I'm not sure, but maybe it was taken on a busy day, that wore her down a bit. We all have those days.  This is my third this week. And it doesn't look as though it will be any more restful any day yet to come this week.

I pray that those in authority, in this area at least,  will keep our restrooms safe, especially for little tykes like Ava. If you don't know about this controversy, make sure you inform yourself and stand up to those who want to tell us we don't have a right to separate restrooms.

Middle Child

At this date, our little Oliver is fine with being a little brother and a big brother at the same time. He certainly has a pleasant attitude and a sweet smile. He is, like his bigger brother. very good with his baby sister. 

I can hardly wait to see them in person again. Face Time is a God send, but that personal touch beats all the technology in the world. 

Pi Day 2016

This year  March 14th was another happy family time to remember.

Chelle and the triplets have celebrated Pi day for several years now. While I'm glad  they like to do it, because  I like the pictures; I'm also glad I don't have to party with them. 

Their funny practice was new to me when they first started. I guess I just run in the wrong circles, because as far as I know, none of my friends celebrate in this manner. If we were to do anything, it would probably be to see who could eat the most pi, or make that pie.

Big Brother Caleb

Caleb is now big brother, not only to his little brother, Oliver, but also to Julia. as well. He is a very loving little boy and the younger siblings are so blessed to have him.

One of my playmates had an older brother who was protective of her, I am an only child, so  all my life, I've thought I'd like to have an older brother. However, I know that not all older siblings are as loving and kind as was my friend's brother or Caleb.

River Boys and More

Here is another layout of the boys on their last hike by the river.

Their little sister, our newest grand baby is one month old TODAY and we have not yet held her. It won't be long though. I'm counting down the days.  Can't wait to see the boys as well. Now, if only we had settled our dog sitting problem.

We had our Ladies' Retreat for church this weekend. The weather was fantastic, which was especially nice since it has been so cold/ snowy/rainy recently.

I'm the one who had always taken pictures, but thankfully some of the younger ladies are much more proficient than I. I didn't take a single picture this past two days. No one seemed to be taking them, at least I didn't notice any cameras or pointing telephones. But the cool thing is, at the end one of the photographer ladies took several group shots. I'm anxious to get a copy, so that I can make a layout to remember this great retreat. It was held at our church instead of the National Park where it has been held for many years. I was disappointed when the  decision was made to do it in our building; but, I have to say it worked out really well. It was memorable and much less expensive.  I actually enjoyed the meals much better than what we had had before. Or course, that is just my opinion; but, isn't  that what this blog is all about?

Survivor

The boys learn about more than crops and animals at farm school. This day in March, Caleb was learning survival skills. He is purifying water from the stream. Of course where he is, the water is probably already clean, but it is still good to know this. Good job, Caleb.

It's been a wonderful day. Ron has gotten quite a bit of yard work done, while enjoying the sun.

I'm a little bit concerned myself. The doctor told me that I would have to be careful in the sun because with my new medication, I will burn easier than before. He is talking to ME, the one who always got sunburned in college while going from class to class.  Can it be possible to burn easier? We'll see before too long  now.

Myth

I am quoting from Lipscomb Now:, The magazine for Alumni and Friends Winter 2016

Celebrating a Decade of Growth.

The picture is of the founders of Blackbird Theater, the first being our son in law Greg Greene. I'm not sure the print will be large enough to read once you enlarge it, but I hope so. It is a very interesting story about Greg, his company and his plays.

Baby Julia Dawn

Baby Julia didn't have a middle name until after she was born. Lots of names were tossed about, but none had stuck. But when you've read the story above, you will know when and why she got her middle name.

After this was over and Beth looked so good, I told them that since it was so easy they should have 6 or 7 more. I think that suggestion will, probably go unheeded, since the early days of a child's life is so very demanding, especially on the mother but  even on the father.  Just finding a few hours to sleep is not always possible in those first weeks or months.  But of course, in the long run, when one can catch her breath, it is SO worth it.

God bless the family.

More Birth Day Photos

Don't suppose we'll ever get tired of baby pictures. I am far behind, as usual though. These pictures were taken the day Julia was born. It is a good memory for us, because this larger one of her has a little picture of our admiring faces up in the corner. It was a still taken while  FaceTiming.

The smaller picture will always be a favorite, because  it shows the sweet love in Caleb's expression as he views his new little sister.

The Poudre River

The Poudre River runs through the Ft. Collins city farm. Caleb and Oliver were photographed hiking there in mid March. Caleb was surprised to find a heart shaped stone among the many through what I would call the flood zone. I actually have more pictures taken here that day. Still have another layout to do, but was anxious to post these.

The kids are very blessed to have two farms that are learning centers for them.

I am thankful to God for making John and Beth both good at taking photos and that these boys are good about posing.  I also thank the Lord for trusting us with such beautiful, sweet grandchildren.

We have many on our hearts tonight who are suffering the loss of loved ones, who are sick or who  are undergoing operations. May the good Lord give them all comfort and/or good health.

Horizon Super Squeeze

Is happiness a Horizon Super Squeeze? It surely makes for a contented little girl.

We haven't seen Ava in person for quite a long time, but we are happy to have pictures pretty regularly. She is growing so quickly.

She seems to like her mother's workout gym, because they have this cool area for the kids.
She really enjoys playing with the other kiddos, but she's happy when Mommy comes to get her as well.

I've always felt like there was too much to do and as far back as I can remember, I 'burned the candle at both ends' as a doctor told me when I was in high school.  That never changed. But in spite of my continuing to keep busy, I am not getting everything done. It seems there are not enough minutes from the time I pull myself out of bed in the morning, until I have to go back at night. I'm not sleeping more, it is just the days go sooooo fast.

This is a big question I want to ask God when I get to heaven.  How does that work? Why can my 24 hours go so fast, while this little sweeties' days are so long?

Colorful!

Fads come and fads go and at my age I can't keep up with them...however, it isn't really necessary because my friends and family keep me entertained by them. 

I can't get into this last new thing, coloring ones hair bright colors. Of course, I didn't even get into coloring mine at all. I'll just keep what God gave me. Thank you, Lord...it is so much easier that way.

The story that goes with this layout tickles me. Chelle and the kids went into Chick-fil-A to eat. The kids took a seat and Chelle ordered. Then she told the fellow at the register to deliver it to the table where the kids sat with their purple and blue hair. He glanced at her and said, "I see it runs in the family."   

Sometimes when I'm writing the blog, I feel like Nero fiddling while Rome burned. But then we have

to take a break now and then from the reality of the world around us and rest our minds for a few minutes. That activity and prayer is what keeps me going today. 

God bless you all.

New Tot Discovery Center

These pictures were taken March 1 of this year. Oliver was checking out the new tot center at the Ft Collins, CO Discovery Museum. I can't imagine getting any better pictures anywhere else. These are just delightful.

This has nothing to do with these pictures, but I just thought about this today and want to pass it on in case it might mean something to you as well.

God's second commandment is to love our neighbors as ourselves.   If you do love others as yourself, then when they get something very good, as a new house, car or have a vacation someplace really nice, then you would be very happy for them...as you would be if it were you getting the goodies.

That rules out envy and jealousy. And doesn't love feel better than envy or jealousy? Sure does. When God gave us the commandments, they were for our own good. He/she who obeys God will lead a much easier, peaceful life...one of contentment.

God bless you all..

Friends Forever and Ever

We have bonded. We are truly friends. Sad to think some may need to move away for work. But we don't have to worry. We live such a short time on earth compared to eternity. We can always be friends forever and ever through eternity.

We were sorry to be missing some of our number last night for the movie, Pam and John couldn't make it, Cynthia couldn't be there. We have others who attend some nights, that couldn't make it. Three: Dave, Tammy and Randy could not come early enough for the movie because of working; but they met us for dinner. We certainly have a good time together.

If you don't have a church family, I recommend that you find one. Find one where the common denominator is the Bible. True Bible study should unite you. If you pray for understanding, God will grant that for you...and you will also have this hope that is within us, and a peace that passes all understanding.

God's Not Dead 2

Have to admit, I get tired earlier than when I was younger...last month. So I'm just dropping a picture and running to bed. I hope to be back tomorrow night with a layout. I have plenty tonight, but would rather post this picture of a large percentage of our life group at the movie tonight.

I would recommend this movie to all. It is very well done, story line was not just of importance, but interesting, thought provoking, held our attention. Acting was very natural.   I don't generally say this, but I want to see it again...soon even. Yes, it was good. Even better than it's predecessor.

If you go see the show, you may understand later the meaning of all the cell phones.

God bless you and good night.

Simba and Times Square

In February, Lauren and Pat were able to make a trip to the city, the big city, New York City. They spent their  time in and near Times Square.  Looks like they had a good time.

Lauren's mother's birthday is today. She has been exceptionally busy this past week or so and forgot that this was her birthday until after she got up this morning. She drove home last night so that her husband could be rested for today. They arrived at home at about 3 AM .  She make the comment that birthdays after 50 come closer together.

How can she be older than 50? It really hasn't been that long since I was 50, or has it? Let me count the years.  I guess it has, but as the trite saying goes, It seems like yesterday.

And who knows what tomorrow could bring?...

I read this on Max Lucado's daily message a few days ago...

"to us he shared the same message, 'Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust in me. . .I will come back and take you to be with me so that you may be where I am' (John. 14:1,3).

Live with an ear for the trumpet and an eye for the clouds. And when he calls your name, be ready. You will look up, and he will reach down and take you home. . . when Christ comes!"

That's right. You don't have to be old to look forward to seeing God. You never know when that will be.  Be ready.

Only in Colorado

As far as I know this could happen only in Colorado. Here we have long sleeve t-shirts, snow, bright sunshine and lady bugs  all at the same time, February 10th.   

It was a while before I saw the ladybug on Caleb's shirt. I kept wondering why he was looking at the ground. 

If I didn't know that God is in control of the weather, I might fall for this climate change hooey, but I do know that the climate has changed from hot to cold, from wet to dry, from calm to stormy over and over again since the beginning of time. At one time there was no rain.   But then He caused a flood. He warned those he loved to build an ark, a big boat, to house the people whom he would keep safe and two of each animal, and bird. All Noah had to do was listen and obey.

Life is much easier with a trust in God. We know that He controls the weather, only He controls the weather...whatever we do, we cannot control the weather without His consent. It is interesting to watch what He does, while keeping a peaceful mind. All we have to do is praise Him and adapt.

It is a fight of mine at the present to bring down my blood pressure. I know that it is affected by stress and worry. God is the answer. Trust in Him, brings about a more calm spirit. Thank you Father.

And thank you for these precious boys. We love them very much.

Born at Dawn

Can't believe I hadn't published these pictures of the proud Daddy. It been been 17 days already, since Julia's birth on the 16th of March. And Daddy played a very important  role. It was into his hands that she was born at dawn, not willing to wait until they could get to the hospital.

 I think she will be a mover and a shaker. 

I glanced through google tonight and found this poem that I really like. Again, it is not my own. However I can't give credit to the author, because it wasn't  given on-line.

Dear God,

Bless this little girl

Guide her with your light

fill her life with joy and love

And make her future bright.

Nurture her and comfort her

Protect her day and night.

Hold her close at heart

And keep her always in your sight.

Amen.

Super Mama

Unique, Loved, Special, these are just a few words to describe Alana Beth. She is a very special lady. When I am thinking of those things in  Philippians 4:8, Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. I can most definitely think of her and the other mothers in our family. I am thankful to God to know that she is always there for her kids, going the extra miles that are necessary to care for little ones day to day.

If you are one whom I should have praised like this. Stay tuned. I will, but I had to start somewhere and it just struck me tonight that you all are so marvelously praiseworthy, enough to make it public.