tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49372165358755978642024-03-21T09:20:41.456-05:00The Jones Family CircusThe Daily Joys and Trials of Being in the Jones FamilyUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger187125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-36922054876366100122013-04-28T23:47:00.004-05:002013-04-28T23:53:06.377-05:00EphesiansWhere do I even start? I was asked to speak in the morning at our community Bible study wrap-up a few weeks ago. I knew God is good and that I was sure I would always have something to say because, well, He saved me, etc. Lots of good to talk about. <br />
I had no idea of the work that God would do in my heart. I have been saved a long time. I mean over 25 years. I guess I just didn't expect God to do any more in my life. I think I probably asked Him, but realistically didn't expect anything else to change. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dz9ln1Na9yI/UX37VKe1v2I/AAAAAAAAMAM/IpL4Edo8EYA/s1600/Love_Picture_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dz9ln1Na9yI/UX37VKe1v2I/AAAAAAAAMAM/IpL4Edo8EYA/s320/Love_Picture_3.jpg" width="320" /></a>I feel like I have been saved, again. I feel like I would not recognize myself if I looked in the mirror because I am a different person than I was before. <br />
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For as long as I can remember I have dealt with bitterness, depression, paranoia, etc. I would praise God out of one side of my mouth, but not be able to fight the feelings that were inside. I think I would feel justified in being critical of other Christians, people, etc. I'm not sure why, but I always seemed to feel sorry for myself.<br />
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I could go on and on that I let this go on for a long time. I would want to be happy and to be able to truly love people freely, but would always be plagued with these feelings. They were like a family pet. Someone close to me said that they didn't think I wanted to be happy. <br />
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Some truths that God has used to transform my life with these past few months: <br />
- I have a choice to live as a new creation in Christ....to accept the power that has been given to me....the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, or to stay the same.....dead....in my own sins. <br />
- My flesh is a strong force. I do have an enemy, too, but he only has the power that I give him. <br />
- I was created for a purpose....even for good works that were prepared in advance for me. I don't have to be ashamed of the gift that God has given me. It is a tool to be used for Him. Just like when Eric Liddell said that when he ran he felt God's pleasure, I can enjoy singing....it was given to me an it is OK. It is not useless like I have thought in the past. When I sing I feel God's pleasure. He made me this way. I am going to sing at the top of my lungs for His glory! <br />
- Everyone on this earth is not my enemy. I can and will assume the best. It is OK to be happy. Yes, there are really people who live in God's peace. I didn't really believe it. I think I thought that people must have ulterior motives in everything. How could some people be so nice? Well, you become different when you let God's spirit live in you. He makes you different. <br />
- I have a calling.....to live for Christ. I am not my own. It is time to woman up and to step outside my own comfort zone and see the needs around me. <br />
- It is a blessing to submit to others and love people just because you do. No strings attached. Not like in junior high when I wanted people to like me so much and to vote for me for cheerleader. I don't think I was a bad person back then, but people were votes to me. Now, I love people and see them for the creations of God they are. I think about their hearts, their souls. I don't always have the strength or knowledge to know what to do for people, but I am going to do the next thing the Holy Spirit puts on my heart. <br />
- I am going to quit questioning my thoughts and think about what others might think of me. It's not really my business and it does nothing to bring me closer to Christ. <br />
- I am nothing without Christ. I am totally grateful for the life He has put in me. I am alive. <br />
- I am not perfect and am sure that I will fight the flesh and the enemy of our souls, but I am not alone. Like my wise youth director growing up said "A christian is someone who gets up one more time than he falls down." I will live like this and show this kind of grace to others. <br />
- I can't do any of this on my own. I need to be filled daily, hourly with the Holy Spirit. <br />
- If I feel like this, then a lot of other people probably do, too, and would be blessed by hearing about what God has done in my life.<br />
- I am burdened for my children who have lived with my bitterness. I am praying that we break this cycle of bitterness and that they, too, can live. <br />
- ASSUME THE BEST!! And above all....LOVE GOD, LOVE PEOPLE!<br />
The Bible is my food. Stay in it and grow....be fed. Don't be timid. Being timid does nothing for anyone, except keeping yourself and others from a blessing. <br />
I love you, Lord. And I lift my voice, to worship you, oh my soul rejoice, take joy, my King, in what you hear....may it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear.<br />
Have a very blessed week everybody. See you in the morning, Community Bible Study. Thank you, Joan, for inviting me to go with you last August. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-2824923190977518122012-02-19T14:04:00.000-06:002012-02-19T14:04:41.381-06:00Good grief, God is good!Tomorrow is President's Day and the kids and I are going to be at home. Matt is going to Ashland for staff development. He is very thankful to actually have a staff development that he has to attend.<br />
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I guess it is just one of those day when I am overwhelmed at how blessed we are. God has been faithful at every turn in our lives. From the health of our family to providing financially, He has been way better than we deserve. <br />
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God has blessed with that peace that passes all understanding. No matter what lies ahead of us, I pray that we will always keep focused on the fact that He is so worthy to be praised in any circumstance. My only concern is that we are not doing enough to live for Him. I hate realizing that I am so human. It is frustrating to do the things I don't want to do and to not do what I want to do. I hate when I lose my temper or worry about the future. It is amazing that we serve a God that loves us anyway.<br />
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We are blessed to be teaching at Batesville and Hickory Flat, for Matt to be teaching guitar lessons and to be working with the youth at our church. My prayer is that we would do all we can in each of these places to glorify God. Who knows what the future will bring, but I pray that we would approach it all with grace, trusting God at every turn.<br />
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We are coming up to one of the most special times of the year. Passover, Good Friday, Resurrection Sunday are the most important for all believers. I pray that as it approaches we all would realize what it all means to each of our lives. <br />
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God bless!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-1050662583368257872011-05-22T21:28:00.000-05:002011-05-22T21:28:40.009-05:00I waited patiently for the Lord.....I will sing....sing a new song......("40" by U2)So much has happened since my last update that I will not even try to completely catch up. The school year has basically ended and summer is in sight!! I have one more day with students and three teacher days. <br />
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First I want to thank everyone for all of the sweet wishes, cards, presents and presence at my 40th birthday party. I was overwhelmed that Matt did so much to make my birthday special. I could write a long time about the lengths he went to to be sneaky....including having my realtor call me to set up an "appointment" and having my own mother pretend to neglect me. :) It was wonderful!! <br />
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As summer approaches, we are trying to get ahead by planning our upcoming youth/school/family activities. <br />
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Our first big thing is our church's upcoming VBS that will happen June 13th through 17th at Taylor BC near Oxford. This is the first time that Matt and I will be directors of VBS. I am understating it to say that organization is not our spiritual gift. Nevertheless, God has given us this place and we won't question why. :)<br />
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We have several other things going on with our youth and church family throughout June and July. In between all of this I am really looking forward to spending time with our families. <br />
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We're not really sure yet what our exact direction will be next year, but God has blessed Matt with his guitar lessons so much that he could really do that full time. It is all in His hands. I am, again, fighting my impulse to worry. : ) <br />
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I guess that is about all for now. Matt is coming to school to help me build cubbies in my choir room tomorrow. Take care and God bless. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-64959880298828471172010-11-19T22:46:00.000-06:002010-11-19T22:46:15.431-06:00Jones Family Circus, long time no see.....<span style="font-size: large;">It has been a while since I have blogged. Life and facebook have cut into my time. It is amazing to me how things change in life. It is so easy to wake up and realize that you have taken the routine for granted. This has been the most surreal year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">First, Matthew left for MC and really hasn't been home because of football games, etc. For years we were together with no thought at all of things ever being different, and then he left. I am so happy that he is having a great time at school, but it is still strange with him not being home. We miss his face. It will be so great to see him Tuesday. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We were in a transition with jobs, churches, etc. and then God led us to a wonderful group of people at Taylor BC. It has been such a blessing to work with the youth and see our old friends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This school year has been so much better than last year, but still so tough. I know God has put me there for a reason, but it is so hard for my personality to be tough enough to be a strong teacher. Even with the best intentions, it is still not good enough. If anyone ever needed Thanksgiving break, it was me, now. So very frustrating. I get overwhelmed and then disappoint myself when I lose my temper and don't behave like I want to. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, today is the first day of Thanksgiving holidays. I am going to soak up every bit of this break. 2010 is about over. I know God has a plan for our family for Matt finding a full-time job and us settling down. I am going to remember my trust in Him as we go through this time. He is going to take care of us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I guess I need to remember that all things do work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. That is such a comforting thing. Even in our failures, He loves us completely and no less. Thank goodness we can't earn His love. We already have it. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now Matt is in here playing jazz guitar Christmas music. Ahhhh..................</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Great end to the evening. Take care, everybody. I pray that you will know that comfort of knowing God and walking with Him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have a great Thanksgiving!!</span> <br />
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</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-43561196152405574862010-10-01T18:20:00.000-05:002010-10-01T18:20:33.657-05:00Benny's latest<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/TKZswFKcgqI/AAAAAAAAHLY/kjLxyPr98g4/s1600/Top.BMP.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; FLOAT: left; CLEAR: both" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/TKZswFKcgqI/AAAAAAAAHLY/kjLxyPr98g4/s400/Top.BMP.jpg" /></a> I am loving Benjamin's latest artwork. He has always loved sharks and sharks being not so nice to people.<div style='clear:both; text-align:LEFT'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-76889857547742733782010-03-28T15:36:00.000-05:002010-03-28T15:36:55.367-05:00Interesting times.....This has been just about the strangest year of my life. It is like God is just saying wait a while on.....something. I know that He is in total control and I trust Him, but am ready to find where we are supposed to be and get busy. Maybe that is what is going on. Maybe He is just letting me get so excited about serving Him....wherever. I see and hear about so many of my brothers and sisters in Christ being busy serving God in different places and in different ways. It feels good in a way to know that I didn't go to church or try to serve God because Matt was on staff as worship leader, but because I really do love God and really do want to lead others to Him. That, God has made very clear to me. <br />
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Along these lines....it is tough finding the right place to serve God right now. This is a huge compliment to the churches in Oxford. There are so many great churches that are loving people and are preaching His word. We could go to just about any of these churches. Right now, Matthew has really gotten plugged in at North Oxford BC. We have visited there and it is great. We also have gone to the Orchard, and have loved it. They are different, but are both great. We also visited Grace and First Baptist. All great. <br />
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We have great friends at all of these churches and could just about see ourselves at any. We are ready to get involved, though, so please pray for us as we seek God in this. Please pray for us, also, about career directions. Matt has a real heart for leading worship, but he also loves teaching. He had always had the dream to lead worship full-time. He has opportunities in teaching, but God hasn't opened any doors as far as worship leading full-time. It may just not be the right season. We have loved going to home fellowship with a group of folks from FB and Grace. It has been great worshipping and studying the Bible in this small setting. <br />
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April and May are going to be full for our family starting off with Jacob's birthday on April 2. Then Matt is going to be busy getting his guitar and choir concerts together. After all of those, I have concerts, etc. at my school, and then Matthew has all of his graduation activities. He and Benjamin will also have their band concerts. Whew! <br />
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I am excited about what God is doing in our lives and what I see Him doing in our friends' lives around the world. He is so awesome! My job has been a huge blessing and I am looking forward to see what is coming in the future. God bless.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-73683887751854832892010-02-01T19:22:00.000-06:002010-02-01T19:22:56.429-06:00Update 2/1/10So much has happened since my last post. I think last time it was almost November and we were getting ready for the Thanksgiving feast at North Oxford. Well, that all went great, as did Christmas. The Christmas musical at New Prospect went great. So many working together. Christmas was such a blessing, too. As always. God reveals Himself in a new way each year, it seems. The story of Him being born in a manger may seem redundant, etc., but when you think about what it all really means and you have a relationship with Him, it is awesome! <br />
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New Year's was great, too. So much good family time. Over Christmas holidays I also made a change. God just dropped a new job in my lap. I found out about Batesville Junior High needing a new choral director. I made a call and met the principal. It worked out great and I have been there a month now. It was tough leaving my little people. It tore me up calling my boss and telling her, but I knew there was a reason God was moving me. I would soon find out. <br />
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We don't always understand it, but God also closes doors. We are no longer at New Prospect BC where we had been for 3 years. Leaving there was unlike anything I had experienced. It was, sadly, messy and I don't think it pleased God too much, but I just have to trust that it was all in His plan. Even though it hurt incredibly, and the church just thinks that our family "left", I know it will all be OK. I do have a certain peace about it. I just can't think about the church right now without getting pretty bitter. Especially when we were there for 3 years and have barely talked to the people there except a select few. I guess it is just too awkward for most to approach us. Maybe they just don't care. ???<br />
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I know this will ease in time. We have been able to go to my mom's in Jackson and go to church with her, though. (something we couldn't do while on staff) We have also visited North Oxford and are going to FB on Wednesday nights to take the kids to Awana. Who knows where we will end up. We are planning on visiting our friend's church, The Orchard, really soon, too. We'll see. <br />
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I am so thankful that God has given me a family that I love and loves me and the ability to love the people I come in contact. He has given me a job that lets me work with kids and share His love with them. It's all good! <br />
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Well, that's all for now. Hope you are all doing well. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-89383413928118166152009-10-14T07:56:00.002-05:002009-10-14T08:01:08.449-05:00First official night of AwanaTonight is the first night of Awana at my church in Oxford. I am pretty amazed at how much work has been done to bring this all together. My pastor and his wife have bent over backwards to see this happen. This is something that our church really needed and that I am already seeing being a huge tool to reach out to the other kids in our area.<br /><br />My computer was being crazy last night, so I have to finish my powerpoint for tonight, now. I know it will come together, but I am a little anxious. <br /><br />Please keep us in your prayers as we attempt this tonight. It is all for God's glory. Phil. 4:13Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-6027561384582716322009-09-30T10:10:00.002-05:002009-09-30T10:58:51.749-05:00What a gorgeous day!The sun looks so gorgeous outside and coming in through our windows. It has rained so much lately that I almost forgot what bright sun looked like. We needed the rain, I am not complaining, but we got a lot of it.<br /><br />This week has been wild, but really good. We began revival services at our church on Sunday morning. The preacher, P.J. Scott, has been great. I have learned so much from him, already. Tonight is our last night. He has preached on so much that has been on my heart for awhile. How our churches need to change to actually be a place where outsiders would even want to come and join. That our churches have become a closed society. My heart has been breaking for feeling like I didn't have the resources to reach the people around me. There has also been a staggering fear that it would just be too overwhelming to try to invest enough time into the lost people around me when I have a family of 6 who need me. I have let myself be complacent. Even though I was disappointed with myself, I just kept going and passing people and praying that maybe they would meet someone else that could reach them. <br /><br />I have been praying about how God could use me and being disgusted that I felt like my using my gifts at church alone was a cop out and not what I needed to be doing. Ministering to Christians who, I know, need lots of ministering to, but at the same time feeling like I was meant to reach this dying world. Well, not all me, but I hope you know what I mean. At least the part that I am supposed to reach. I get down so easily. It is my temperament. I really have to fight not getting depressed about this all. One thing I really realized is that I have been trying to do all of this in my own strength. I think I have been afraid of asking God for His strength because I know He would give it to me and then I would have to get out of my comfort zone. <br /><br />I have to remember that the entire Christian walk is with Christ's strength. That is the only way it is possible to please God. That is one thing that seperates us from other religions. We depend on Christ. Depend. We are desperate for Him. I know that my "self" is so weak and pitiful on my own. I have to be filled with the Spirit to do anything that He is calling me to do. Yes, it may sound like He is one big crutch. Well, He is and He is supposed to be. <br /><br />My goal for the rest of this year is to start by at least contacting my neighbors. Inviting them to church. Inviting them into our home. Getting outside our comfort zone. <br /><br />I have to be honest. Asking God to totally take over my life is very scary. He may want me to give up some things that I have made myself dependent on. He is so worth it all. It is about walking with Him and fellowshipping with Him. Being a part of what He is doing. He will bless us with letting us actually be a part of His work. <br /><br />Take care,<br />LaurieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-53034321916814961062009-09-02T10:11:00.004-05:002009-09-02T10:18:25.570-05:00I am trying something new<a href="http://www.bonanzle.com/booths/jonesrestoration"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 226px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 81px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376889243581549282" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/Sp6MR3BMCuI/AAAAAAAAFow/qKO6-z5fSTY/s320/checkoutstuff.png" /></a> OK, I have just started calculating how much I am paying ebay to sell my items and discovered that there is another up-and-coming business that is similar to ebay, but whose fees are much lower, etc. It is not an auction site, but instead a storefront, or "booth" like they call it. I only pay if I sell anything. Here is the link if you are interested. Maybe it could help you out, too. Now, I have to get a life and do some house work. :) <div><div>Have a great day!</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-27413939670037463402009-08-29T16:58:00.003-05:002009-08-29T17:09:03.066-05:00Happy Birthday, Benjamin!!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/Spmmb7o2VmI/AAAAAAAAFog/lFvjj7AuVvg/s1600-h/IMG_1260.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 280px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 201px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375510629039101538" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/Spmmb7o2VmI/AAAAAAAAFog/lFvjj7AuVvg/s320/IMG_1260.JPG" /></a>Benjamin is our now 12 year old. Today is his big day. It seems like he always gets the shaft when it comes to his birthday. Like something out of the ordinary is happening and he doesn't get to have just a normal, go out to eat....sing, eat cake, open presents, etc. birthday. Many years ago his brother, Matthew, had an appendectomy on B's birthday, a couple of years after that, or it may have been the next year, Hurricane Katrina came through Mississippi and he spent his b-day in the dark with candles. This b-day his mom is being a dud and is puny in the bed. (Well, now at the computer, because I was going completely stir crazy).<br /><div></div><br /><div>Well, thank goodness we had a birthday party at the Skate Place last weekend for his birthday. He always envisions having a family "party" too. His dad has made his day now, though. He has just taken B and Jacob to Wal-mart to buy Nerf swords so they can fight to their hearts' content for the rest of the night. A birthday cake is going to come in there sometime, too. Happy Birthday, Benjamin!! We love you! </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-25141140576704894632009-08-08T16:29:00.003-05:002009-08-08T16:46:20.631-05:00Life is goodSometimes we think we know what is best for us and we frequently find out later that we really don't have a clue. Well, we may have a small clue, but then we talk ourselves out of it, or rationalize that surely we couldn't be right.<br /><br />Following God and trying to just rest in Him is tough sometimes. Well, most of the time it is hard to not trust our own instincts. We get used to thinking about what we "need" to be able to make it. Well, I have been interviewing and applying for jobs with the thought in the back of my mind that God might have wanted something more simple for me than to be in a fast-paced job with a contract and more income. As much as I have wanted to just provide for my family, I think my purpose right now might be to provide in a different way. After the kids and Matt being back at school for two days, I don't know how we made it with me driving 1 1/2 hours a day and planning, being gone for programs, etc.<br /><br />I know God kept us sane during that time, but made us tired enough to know that there was something different for us. Are we going to realize that peace in our family is more important than more money? I hope so. I don't know if I am going to get a job tomorrow or in 5 years, but I know that God has us in the palm of His hand.<br /><br />Take care.....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-39635902433158097362009-07-17T10:31:00.000-05:002009-07-17T10:32:07.626-05:00Ripley's Believe it or Not in GatlinburgThere is a lot more to come from our trip to G'burg, but here is a start. On Tuesday, the kids wanted to go to the Ripley's Believe it or Not museum on the strip. Here is a pic of them in the "Big" chair. There was a lot in there I could have definitely lived without seeing, but now they can say they went. :) Now the kids are on their way with Mamaw's to meet up with Nana. Matt heads to his guitar workshop in Atlanta on Sunday and I am meeting the family at Lake Tiak O' Khata on Sunday for the Brantley reunion. <br />I can't believe there are only a couple of weeks left of summer.<br /><br />Take care....<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SmCZdcmLbVI/AAAAAAAAFZ0/S2bwZb5A_Ps/s1600-h/IMG_0810.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; FLOAT: left; CLEAR: both" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SmCZdcmLbVI/AAAAAAAAFZ0/S2bwZb5A_Ps/s320/IMG_0810.JPG" /></a><div style='clear:both; text-align:LEFT'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-27684379902041810612009-07-12T14:11:00.002-05:002009-07-12T14:12:09.318-05:00Off to the mountainsI am packing away. Tomorrow we are off to Gatlinburg. Hope you all have a great week!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-84624706345203976472009-07-09T10:22:00.000-05:002009-07-09T10:22:29.462-05:00My family is trying to kill me.....<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SlYLMNOFTwI/AAAAAAAAFWA/P5V5SoMqMDA/s1600-h/IMG_0697.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; FLOAT: left; CLEAR: both" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SlYLMNOFTwI/AAAAAAAAFWA/P5V5SoMqMDA/s320/IMG_0697.JPG" /></a> I am not going to name any names because I love my entire family and don't want to shame any of them, but..................<br /><br /><br />Halfway through my breakfast I glanced into my orange juice and this was what I saw. No matter what I have done...this is just wrong. I did not pour the orange juice this morning. There are only two other people who were awake for breakfast........Hmmmmm.<br /><br /><br />I am going to start sleeping with one eye open. Have a blessed day<br /><br />:)<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SlYLMeCxm7I/AAAAAAAAFWI/iRnJhxzKmLg/s1600-h/IMG_0698.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; FLOAT: left; CLEAR: both" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SlYLMeCxm7I/AAAAAAAAFWI/iRnJhxzKmLg/s320/IMG_0698.JPG" /></a> <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SlYLMwKEbYI/AAAAAAAAFWQ/X5fS8dTrSl8/s1600-h/IMG_0699.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; FLOAT: left; CLEAR: both" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SlYLMwKEbYI/AAAAAAAAFWQ/X5fS8dTrSl8/s320/IMG_0699.JPG" /></a><div style='clear:both; text-align:LEFT'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-66678361182629283842009-07-05T17:45:00.003-05:002009-07-05T18:05:53.630-05:00Summer 1/2 Over<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.twincedarcabins.com/Smoky_Mountain_Black_Bear.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 272px; height: 181px;" src="http://www.twincedarcabins.com/Smoky_Mountain_Black_Bear.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Today has been kind of an odd day. We had church and then the kick-off for VBS which starts tomorrow night. I stayed at church for a while this afternoon to help decorate and then took a long nap when we got home. We aren't having church tonight so I am thinking about buying some fireworks and doing a do-over for July 4th. Not sure about grilling again, but you never know. One can't have too much red meat...well, actually, I'm sure one can, but you know what I mean.<br /><br />What has been up?<br />Thursday we got Matthew back home from Camp Electric. He had a great time and learned a lot. Met lots of rockers from all over the USA. Really funny to hear all of his stories. Now he is an alum so he gets to pay a lot less to go this next year. Yea! He got to hang out with some of the guys in Pillar and other groups and actually got to have Red's set list from the concert they did at camp. He also had them all sign his shoes. He was pumped.<br /><br />I am excited about VBS. I am basically just going to be helping. I didn't sign up to teach a class. I will just be jumping around and doing the music, etc.<br /><br />After VBS we are heading to Gatlinburg with Mamaw for a couple of days. She rented a cabin which looks awesome! Except, we were looking at its picture and there was a black bear in one of them. I guess I forgot about this part about the mountains.<br /><br />I can't believe summer is half over. It has been good in a lot of ways and just surreal in so many others. Grandpa passing away still hasn't totally hit me yet. That was not a good thing at all except for him. He was suffering so much at the end. He was so special and is so missed, but is so much a part of who we are that he won't be forgotten. Grandma is being so strong and Mamaw being there with her has been wonderful. I hope I am that kind of daughter to my moms. I also pray that I have that same kind of daughter when I am in her position. Judy is such a sweetheart. The boys and Matt got to be with them yesterday to grill and hang out. I stayed home with sick Matthew and Claire. We didn't want to share our cold.<br /><br />I am still not sure what I will be doing next year (job-wise). I am really praying about it. I know God had a reason for my not going back to my school, but I am still not sure what that is. We'll see in time, won't we?<br /><br />Hope you all have a very blessed week!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-82009920016045850202009-06-27T20:13:00.002-05:002009-06-27T20:50:03.418-05:00Goodbye, Jonesrestoration.comWell, Matt and I said goodbye to my old friend that has been around for several years, jonesrestoration.com. We decided that we didn't need to spend the money on the site since it has gotten so little traffic over the years. <br /><br />I do have to admit that I have been very blessed by a few people saying that they were blessed by the site, but it has been very few people. We just thought that maybe we should focus on getting out and singing more before we get another website. Not a lot of need for it now and we can always keep people informed through this blog. <br /><br />I have put so much time into the site that it feels very strange to let it go. I do think it makes sense, though. Anyway.......<br /><br />This past week has been wild. I met the kids at Nana's almost two weeks ago to help her with the guys. Matt came down on Friday to get ready to lead worship at Park Place on Father's Day. We really enjoyed the sermons we heard by their new pastor, Keith Grubbs. They were on wisdom and were great. God really taught me a lot through them. <br /><br />Then....Monday we met the other adults and kids from our church at Central Hills Baptist Retreat for kids camp. Monday through Wednesday. So funny that the adults who went on the same trip with the youth were bored some of the time. They had a lot of free-time. We went everywhere the kids went and walked about 100 miles. The kids had a blast and two of our boys asked Jesus to be their personal Lord and Savior. One of the boys was my Jacob. So, you know that I love the camp. <br /><br />I was kind of waiting to pass-out on the trip from the heat and all of the walking and...the fact that I am not in the best shape at this time in my life. I never did and I actually climbed the rock wall and went down the zip-line. Of course the guys working their probably gave me a few extra boosts to get up the wall, but I was happy. <br /><br />We got home Wednesday and were so glad to rest. Matthew found out that he made a 30 on the ACT that he took a few weeks ago. Yea!! Then on Friday Matthew got his driver's license. A lot is happening for him lately. Tomorrow he leaves for Camp Electric in Nashville. He is so excited. I would have died to have gone to a camp like that in high school. It is for worship leaders and bands. They are going to work with a lot of people in the Christian music industry. Fun!! They also get to hear big bands in concert at night. <br /><br />As for me....I am kind of still and quiet and thinking about my second interview Thursday for a position in the Oxford School District. I am praying about it and know if that is where God wants me then I will be going there. I also applied for a job at Ole Miss, so we'll see. Who knows.....<br /><br />Tomorrow is the Lord's day and I am so ready to rest in Him and worship. It will be so great to be back at our home church. I feel like we haven't been there in a month. <br /><br />Blessings to you guys................Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-32492583435613093012009-06-01T16:57:00.002-05:002009-06-01T17:10:37.502-05:00Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, Blogger, Hostbaby, Youtube....is it too much? Nah.I am thinking to myself. How much time is reasonable for one to spend on the computer? What do you think? Is it a fun little outlet that connects you to your friends and family? I think so. Can one spend too much time on these websites? I think so. I guess it is just like anything else. All things are permissible, but not all things are beneficial. <br /><br />I sure like being able to see people who, because of the way our world is, I have lost touch with. I love to see what these people are up to and to hear their thoughts about life. <br /><br />Do I think I need to say no to most of the quizzes, etc.? For me...probably so because I could get a little too into them. Spend a little too much time on them. Is is totally fun to farm on facebook? I think so. Can one get consumed by sending their friends fruit trees? I think maybe so.<br /><br />I remember my dad staying up late at night programming on the computer. It was a sight I got used to. I also remember wanting him to stop and talk to me or play with me. I need to remember that. Computer programming was his career. It's not mine. I have loved creating our website, but I probably should admit that I have spent time on it that I could have used on other things. I prayed yesterday that God would set my family on fire for Him. That we would be sold out and seeking how He can use us. Before I beat myself up about being on the computer too much I will remember that this can be used for God's glory, too. Because this is where people are a lot, I will use the time I am on to be a light for Him. To point people to Him. Otherwise, this time could be wasted. Not that a little wasted time is not OK, but too much would be sad.<br /><br />OK, I have rambled enough. See you around on facebook....the short time in the day that I am on. :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-81998879314313661602009-05-23T17:37:00.002-05:002009-05-23T18:23:48.982-05:00Keeping my coolWell, I'm not doing this so well. No, really, I am OK but so many unknowns right now are really making me make myself give our lives to God over and over and over. Every time I want to worry, I just tell myself to snap out of it and then I tell God thank you for being so constant and my protector and provider and just basically everything to me. He is so good, there is never any reason to worry. <br /><br />I know that is all so vague. <br /><br />I have 3 more days of school. The kids are at Mamaw's for the weekend having a good time. They may stay for Memorial Day, or we may go down and join them for a cook-out. <br /><br />I have been listening to so many good sermons online lately. Andy Stanley at Northpoint just finished a series on "Staying in Love". It is so good. I highly recommend it. :)<br /><br />Well, I am going to stop being a slug and get out into the real world and off of this computer. <br />Blessings to you....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-75881589304109625262009-05-20T21:20:00.002-05:002009-05-20T21:29:35.551-05:00Winding DownIt is glorious. It is lovely. It is precious. It is beautiful. <br />It is the end of school. <br />I basically have no more days with students. I will see some of them around school, but my time of preparing lessons for them is over for this school year. My last program was last night. The 3rd graders did a patriotic program and then got their awards. A lot of work to be over in 30 minutes. I guess it is times like those that will hopefully stick with them. I tried so hard to make in impact with the kids. There are some whose futures are going to be tough unless their paths are changed. Even at 3rd grade. It is great to see the little boy that is constantly in trouble in his classes get up and speak in front of an auditorium of people. Maybe that will make a difference. <br />And.....now it's over. Paperwork, packing up, cleaning rooms, saying goodbye to other teachers is all that is left. <br />What to do this summer? Well, a lot of it is planned out for us already. I am looking forward to the different trips. Taking Matthew to Camp Electric is going to be cool. Well, off to bed. Take care, everybody.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-30665805547004754672009-05-15T19:32:00.001-05:002009-05-15T19:34:36.060-05:00Why I love my job<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/Sg4J80_XEKI/AAAAAAAAEyA/rnpGxtfoCNQ/s1600-h/IMG_0651.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/Sg4J80_XEKI/AAAAAAAAEyA/rnpGxtfoCNQ/s320/IMG_0651.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336213549101813922" border="0" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/Sg4JqLwbDeI/AAAAAAAAEx4/dIZybJpE0tc/s1600-h/IMG_0650.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; clear: both; float: left;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/Sg4JqLwbDeI/AAAAAAAAEx4/dIZybJpE0tc/s320/IMG_0650.JPG" border="0" /></a> These pictures were taken during our last full week of school. I have a class of first grade girls that really like to draw on the board. Since this was the last week of school and I was letting different girls take turns on the keyboard, etc., I let them draw. When I saw what they were writing, my heart broke. So sweet.<br /><br />Next year they will be big 2nd graders. How they change. My Claire is about to be a 3rd grader, Jacob a 5th grader, Benjamin in MIDDLE SCHOOL , and Matthew a SENIOR. I can't believe it. This time of year is always a little emotional. After our concert the other night the kids slowly drift off until none are coming to class for different reasons. Strange building up to our concert and then it is over so fast.<br /><br />For the first two weeks of summer we are doing nothing. I mean no planned activities. After that it all starts, but for those two weeks, I am going to reclaim my house, etc. Just enjoy being together as a family. I wish I were going on a mission trip, but we just didn't work it out. We will have to make our summer one big mission trip.<br /><br />Take care.<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" alt="Posted by Picasa" style="border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" align="middle" border="0" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-17804645839777389752009-05-10T13:23:00.000-05:002009-05-10T13:23:50.906-05:00Thanks, Mom!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/Sgcbtlfm7wI/AAAAAAAAEqA/B1asUZLonfQ/s1600-h/IMG_0597.JPG"><img style="CLEAR: both; FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/Sgcbtlfm7wI/AAAAAAAAEqA/B1asUZLonfQ/s320/IMG_0597.JPG" border="0" /></a>Here is my beautiful mother yesterday at her house in Jackson. We got to go see her for Mother's Day and she baked this awesome cake for my birthday today. We had a great time with them all. Mom, Chuck, the kids, Ron and Steve were all there. <br /><br />The weather was horrible on our way home. We almost stayed in Jackson, but we prayed and drove on. Matt said the weather was better up north. It was a little better. We thanked God when we got home. The kids were pretty nervous about it.....then they fell asleep, which was good. I was glad to be back with my boys. The den was really clean because Matthew cleaned it up so he could have a lady friend over to watch a movie. I was thrilled until I went in my room and saw where everything in the den had gone. :/<br /><br />Today I went to Tequilas after church with the Matt, the kids, Amber and Nathan. Matt surprised me with the hat and song from all of the nice folks at Tequillas, but sadly I missed out on the whipped cream in the face. (sarcasm)<br /><br />I can't believe I am almost 40. wow!<br /><br />Hope all you mothers have a wonderful Mother's Day!!!!<div style='clear:both; text-align:LEFT'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-28519113237487596932009-05-07T21:39:00.000-05:002009-05-07T21:39:58.644-05:00Lafayette's first guitar concert<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SgObfidNkHI/AAAAAAAAEg4/511ls4KjBes/s1600-h/IMG_0574.JPG"><img style="CLEAR: both; FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SgObfidNkHI/AAAAAAAAEg4/511ls4KjBes/s320/IMG_0574.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Tonight I got to go to Matt's concert with his guitar students. They are in his middle school general music classes. He started teaching them guitar last year and built on it this year. They played different places Christmas, too.<br /><br />I am so proud of him. He was surprised how many showed up for the concert. I think they were really proud of themselves. Sweet!<br /><br />Have a good week.<div style='clear:both; text-align:LEFT'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-11938079948371637682009-04-30T20:38:00.002-05:002009-04-30T20:43:48.809-05:00So many feelingsI guess I am kind of a feely person anyway. I have so many going on right now. Praying about a situation, having an opportunity and by faith saying no. Then trying not to second guess your decision. <br /><br />The end of school this year has been trying, but good. The uncertainty of our future is always interesting. God just wants us to trust Him one step at a time. He is so faithful!<br /><br />Have a blessed night.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4937216535875597864.post-26756977319593883832009-04-18T14:20:00.000-05:002009-04-18T14:21:08.034-05:00Jacob's Birthday Party<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SeooIgCsKXI/AAAAAAAAD8w/NBCbZDTcJok/s1600-h/IMG_0531.JPG"><img style="CLEAR: both; FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SeooIgCsKXI/AAAAAAAAD8w/NBCbZDTcJok/s320/IMG_0531.JPG" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SeooIneKgwI/AAAAAAAAD84/P5vQ9TKtm1M/s1600-h/IMG_0530.JPG"><img style="CLEAR: both; FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SeooIneKgwI/AAAAAAAAD84/P5vQ9TKtm1M/s320/IMG_0530.JPG" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SeooI_-HdyI/AAAAAAAAD9A/ZyE4UzOMoQk/s1600-h/IMG_0526.JPG"><img style="CLEAR: both; FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SeooI_-HdyI/AAAAAAAAD9A/ZyE4UzOMoQk/s320/IMG_0526.JPG" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SeooI_ONwXI/AAAAAAAAD9I/pfA3vAkDPSI/s1600-h/IMG_0525.JPG"><img style="CLEAR: both; FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Xcuuc_00mBk/SeooI_ONwXI/AAAAAAAAD9I/pfA3vAkDPSI/s320/IMG_0525.JPG" border="0" /></a><div style='clear:both; text-align:LEFT'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0