tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-267588562012-01-26T17:16:55.118-05:00Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands. Deuteronomy 7:9Brendanoreply@blogger.comBlogger1741100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-2311635759956476232007-09-02T18:15:00.000-05:002007-09-02T17:17:45.152-05:00

As I mentioned previously, I'm making some changes around here. I've decided not only to change my blog name, but the location as well. I have imported this blog and my prayer blog from here to one blog on WordPress. You may want to update your links to Rocks Cry Out. Hope to see you there!

Brendanoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-56538146491981326702007-08-26T16:18:00.000-05:002007-08-26T17:01:42.336-05:00

by Lanny Wolfeverse 1There’s a voice calling meFrom an old rugged treeAnd He whispers draw closer to meLeave this world far behindThere are new heights to climbAnd a new place in me you will find chorusFor whatever it takes to draw closer to you LordThat’s what I’ll be willing to doFor whatever it takes to be more like youThat’s what I’ll be willing to do verse 2Take the dearest things to meIf

Brendanoreply@blogger.com84tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-66965525954476035352007-08-25T17:40:00.000-05:002007-08-25T22:39:31.421-05:00

Tomorrow (Sunday) marks one week since I have spoken to Sarah. I would almost bet money that she won't call.Lindsey is working two jobs and learning the art of money management. It's funny how much less stuff she needs now that she has her own money to spend.One of our dogs has heartworms. Sarah has asked me a couple of times if we're going to get her treated, but I really don't know what to

Brendanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-2200389236934400822007-08-18T22:14:00.000-05:002007-08-18T22:20:49.565-05:00

At 22 months apart, they are as different as night and day, save their mutual dislike of one another. I find it interesting that the resentment seems more pronounced when they are separated than when they are together (unless they're with their dad). Sadly, I understand the frustration that Lindsey must feel when she is constantly being compared to Sarah and found lacking. My heart aches for her,

Brendanoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-27243168812400678572007-08-17T00:17:00.000-05:002007-08-17T00:21:33.693-05:00

Late Sunday night, Lindsey was on the phone with a friend who told her Sarah was there and they were going to watch a movie. For some reason they wouldn't let Lindsey talk to her, so I called their home number. No one answered the phone. After several more attempts to reach Sarah on her cell phone, I finally called the friend's cell. Still no answer. Eventually, Sarah did call from their home

Brendanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-24359690185310905502007-08-12T19:46:00.000-05:002007-08-12T20:19:33.963-05:00

Friday morning, Lindsey took me to work so she could take the car in for an oil change and run some errands. She had asked Sarah the night before to go with her, but Sarah told her to wake her up in the morning and ask her then. As we were getting ready to leave, I noticed that Sarah was up and out of bed, which was very unusual for that time of morning. She came in from the garage with her

Brendanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-89777942414540862412007-08-07T11:48:00.000-05:002007-08-07T10:48:46.216-05:00

If you've never spent countless hours in a car with 2 teenagers and a 7-yr-old, you don't know what you're missing. It's a lot like a regular road trip, but with triple the potty stops. And double the decibels. At least. Oh, and the bickering. And oh, the blog fodder.Like the time we saw a tractor trailer rig with the company logo on the side of the trailer. "Aunt Brenda, what does that say? I

Brendanoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-20606529882779873672007-07-21T09:54:00.000-05:002007-07-21T10:02:01.860-05:00

Click here for details on how you can help.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-66135244080413749322007-06-29T22:21:00.000-05:002007-06-29T22:34:31.384-05:00

I've got lots of great ideas like this one. Other items can be seen here.A VBS design is coming soon!

Brendanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-16570400230612439552007-06-27T21:12:00.000-05:002007-06-27T23:49:39.680-05:00

Thank you all for your prayers. Our Little Miss Handbasket has returned safely to her dad's, and he is now on his way with her to the bus station. She'll be arriving in my neck of the woods tomorrow evening.I'm manning the battle stations and battening down the hatches. And praying. Lord, keep me from aborting my teenager.I tracked her down last night and called the police station this

Brendanoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-54775282383526767052007-06-26T23:29:00.000-05:002007-06-26T23:39:58.060-05:00

Lindsey's dad called to inform me that she left his house earlier this evening without his knowledge. She didn't leave a note, nor did she take any of her belongings. He has no intentions of going to look for her because he suspects that she's gone to her boyfriend's apartment. Please pray for her safety and my sanity. God help us.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-9986463515987947672007-06-25T22:36:00.000-05:002007-06-26T00:00:57.970-05:00

I had almost forgotten to do this. Last month, Sandy at Because Nice Matters tagged me for a Random 7 meme, and my friend Gordon at Incrediblog! tagged me last week for this one.I hope nobody minds if I combine the two. I'll randomly list 8 things about me and tag 7 people. Here they are in no particular order:3. I love chocolate (who doesn't, Barb?) but I can't stand YooHoo.8. My shoe size is

Brendanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-33173328227058530162007-06-05T20:54:00.000-05:002007-06-07T21:25:03.560-05:00

Hello, internets. Fortunately, I'm back. Unfortunately, I am terribly behind in my blog reading. I've missed a lot of good stuff while I was away. I hope to catch up with all of you soon! Fortunately, we had a nice vacation. Unfortunately, a week isn't long enough. Fortunately, I did get to spend it with both my girls. Unfortunately, only one of them (Sarah) came home with me.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-83930147622460279052007-05-26T13:13:00.001-05:002007-05-26T13:37:25.474-05:00

Well, it's not like I don't have anything post-worthy. It's just that I don't have a lot of time to compose a well-written post. Not because the days here in Georgia are shorter than anywhere else, but because I've got a lot of different things going on all at once. For instance, this and this. Oh and, of course, stuff like this:If things go as planned, I will be starting a blog for each of

Brendanoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-53364791813940006082007-05-22T17:40:00.000-05:002007-05-22T22:09:22.425-05:00

It's been a rough few months around the Rainbow household - oh, who am I kidding? Years would be the more accurate term. Anyway, you get the picture. I don't like to sound like I'm complaining, but I'm sure it must come across that way, so I want to take this opportunity to point out the good stuff. And there's quite a lot of it, actually. I just hadn't noticed for all the whining.Several

Brendanoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-41955145931014648782007-05-19T00:01:00.000-05:002007-05-19T03:31:17.328-05:00

Wow. Has it really been 3 months since my last update on the wayward offspring? Well, allow me to remedy that. See, I am nothing if not prompt. Now let's see... where did I leave you hanging? Ah yes, in our last episode, the red-headed problem child was off visiting her boyfriend and his parents. The story resumes as Smarty McMoutherson returns home with no major incidents to report. She

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-54897979955990568362007-05-17T13:13:00.000-05:002007-05-17T22:00:17.304-05:00

Well, it's been a while. I've been keeping busy with my online gift shops, trying to learn as much as I can about graphic design and experimenting with different programs. I've got a long way to go, y'all. Here are a couple of my latest designs:This one's perfect for the college grad, don't you think?This one was inspired by Melanie, whose poem last month had me in stitches. Y'all have a

Brendanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-63285103367014611192007-05-07T19:41:00.000-05:002007-05-07T20:06:21.320-05:00

Hi again, folks. I'm back with a couple of prayer reminders and a new request. I've been remiss in keeping you up-to-date with Heather and Kelli, so I just want to take a moment to remind you to continue praying. Please make it a point to visit their blogs if you aren't already following their stories. Amazing women. Amazing grace. Amazing God. Also, one of my fellow shopkeepers is needing

Brendanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-80507079649927327632007-05-05T11:08:00.000-05:002007-05-07T19:40:59.078-05:00

Hi, y'all! It's been crazy around here lately, and I'm having a heck of a time keeping up with the blog. Last weekend, after my wonderful visit with Dawn, I came straight to my computer to tell you all about it, and the blasted thing froze up on me - right in the middle of my post! After hubby got it running again, he sorta took it over. His laptop is also on the fritz, and we're having to

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-54592111120218822222007-04-24T14:59:00.000-05:002007-04-24T16:08:09.025-05:00

April 22, 2007 for many was known as Earth Day, but for one unsuspecting blogger, it was just another date on the calendar. Until today, when I remembered that I have an anniversary coming up. Woot!! Happy Bloggiversary to me!Except that it already came and went, and I missed it. Darn! And I was gonna throw a party or something.Oh well, we can still eat cake.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-63789688505656183752007-04-18T07:05:00.000-05:002007-04-18T08:18:20.663-05:00

Today is the day! Once again, we've been afforded the unique opportunity to reach out through the blogoshpere and touch someone in need. By making a contribution of as little as $1 or as much as a commitment of faithful, fervent prayers on behalf of our beloved Heather and her family, we can make a difference! For more information about this love offering, click here. As many of you are aware

Brendanoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-76185211119541877142007-04-14T23:28:00.000-05:002007-04-14T23:46:13.754-05:00

Welcome back, y'all! I trust you've had ample time to think since my last post. I know I have.Here are a few of my thoughts:You really don't know how much you have to be thankful for until you have to pay taxes on it.If nobody likes Sanjaya, why are so many people voting for him? (I like him, but I don't vote.) I think he's more popular than folks like to admit.It's foolishness to expect my

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-19132113481447217802007-03-30T18:51:00.000-05:002007-03-30T23:40:09.411-05:00

Well, bust my buttons! A very dear friend of mine has bestowed this award upon me for making her think. I think most of the time she's thinking "that woman ain't right." (You think that, too, don't you? It's okay. I get that a lot.) Seriously, I can't tell you what an honor this is. Thank you, Barb, for thinking of me! And just when I needed a lift. You bless me. More than you know.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-50037866935992448392007-03-20T21:27:00.000-05:002007-03-21T11:37:14.885-05:00

Spring FlingSpring is an old man in Bermuda shortsand sandals with knee-high black socksshuffling across the deck of a Disneycruise ship to pick up a blue-haired dame.She watches him stagger toward herwith the youthful confidence bornof Old Spice and new socks, making her feelyoung - like she was 70 again, and foolish.The salty breeze of déja vu whispers,and she starts to hum a song from

Brendanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-55534736639493665172007-03-14T18:48:00.000-05:002007-03-14T20:32:16.681-05:00

You could say I'm not a big fan of network television. In fact, I'm LOST when it comes to discussing the latest episodes of 24, Desperate Housewives, Grey's Anatomy, or just about any other serial drama out there. Pretty much, the only show I watch with any regularity is American Idol. House is becoming a favorite, but not yet to the point that I can't stand missing an episode. The only

Brendanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-70456333012127812872007-03-09T11:36:00.000-05:002007-03-09T12:30:51.840-05:00

Okay, folks, before this party winds down, we're gonna play a game. I'm going to give you a list of names, and you have to guess what they all have in common. The answer will tell you something about me. Are you ready? Oh. Yes, you may Google.1. Amerigo Vespucci2. Will Geer3. Mickey Spillane4. Raul Julia5. Charles Gibson6. Barbie7. Linda Fiorentino8. Ford Mustang9. Brian BosworthForty-one

Brendanoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-62643838760687034612007-03-03T02:44:00.000-05:002007-03-03T04:22:42.804-05:00

Oh, hi! Glad you could make it on such short notice. I really wasn't planning on having a party, but I've just redecorated (my blog, not my house - that's still on my to do list) and I'd be delighted to show you around. No, that isn't my front porch, nor did I snap the photo. Credit for the image, which I found at MorgueFile.com, goes to Mary R. Vogt. Come on in and take a Tour of My Home.On

Brendanoreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-9105079273747325552007-02-23T18:50:00.001-05:002007-02-23T18:50:42.639-05:00

Do you find yourself nodding off during long, boring sermons? You won't sleep through this wake-up call!

Brendanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-73175212511503520232007-02-22T19:11:00.000-05:002007-02-22T19:20:47.038-05:00

Because some of you have asked, here's an update on my girls.Sarah is doing well in school, spending a lot of time with her friends, and going to church sporadically. That's all I know. I don't hear from her very often. I don't know how often she checks her voicemail, but I call her daily and leave a message.Lindsey is currently visiting her boyfriend and his parents. One of the things I

Brendanoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-28691834464713304972007-02-18T23:48:00.000-05:002007-02-19T01:18:51.642-05:00

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (Galatians 6:7-8)How can we be sure that the one we have led to the Lord is truly saved? The truth is, we can't be absolutely sure. Good works don't always

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-36020337169453581082007-02-10T12:37:00.000-05:002007-02-27T22:49:52.443-05:00

In my previous post, I linked to a site that referenced a very sobering article at WorldNetDaily. If you missed it, you can read it here.Who would have thought that in this country it would be politically correct to persecute Christians? In the name of tolerance, we have exercised our right to remain silent. Shall we now face prosecution should we choose to give up that right?It was to be

Brendanoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-9056592562612212402007-02-09T13:11:00.000-05:002007-02-07T23:38:25.418-05:00

You've gotta read this.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-254182436162468722007-02-04T22:04:00.000-05:002007-02-04T22:56:17.149-05:00

Lindsey had been after me all week to schedule her flight to Memphis for her birthday on the 21st. She's turning 17, and she wants to go spend a few days with her fella. The girl is relentless. I had told her I would think about it, and she took that ball and ran with it. I needed to talk with his mom first to make sure that she was aware of the plans and is, in fact, willing to take

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-28282874905800324402007-02-01T22:28:00.000-05:002007-02-01T23:11:49.586-05:00

Lindsey and I made the trip to Arkansas last weekend, without knowing exactly what to expect when we got there. She was interested only in seeing her beau, and I wanted to spend some time with Sarah. I had told her that I didn't feel right about allowing her to see the boyfriend behind the dad's back. While I don't agree with his tactics, I do not wish to undermine his authority. Nor do I

Brendanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-38462850309215712562007-01-20T21:40:00.000-05:002007-01-20T22:05:39.177-05:00

Now that I've spilled my guts all over the blogging community, I'm feeling much better, though I'm afraid it may have left some of you feeling a bit queasy or uneasy. Sorry about that. I hope it doesn't ruin your shoes.I realize that I'm all out there with my stuff, maybe a little more than your average basket case, and I'll bet you've wondered "What is she thinking?"Well, I'm about to tell

Brendanoreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-12978568166435119862007-01-16T21:02:00.000-05:002007-01-19T13:43:58.723-05:00

** Updated to add: Yes, Lord! Yes and amen! $9160 has been given so far. Blessings abound! **Today's the day! Go here to find out how you can help.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-11088866891725362622007-01-16T01:52:00.000-05:002007-01-16T02:23:04.097-05:00

Welcome back to my roller coaster. Thank you all for your encouraging comments and prayers. I kinda left you hanging, didn't I? Hopefully, this post will bring you up to speed.By New Year's Day, Lindsey had come to me a few times to strike a bargain for their return to Arkansas. Can you meet halfway? What if dad pays for your gas? Can you talk to him? He offered to pay for the gas if I

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-39365051092907003722007-01-11T16:51:00.000-05:002007-01-11T16:56:28.126-05:00

Brace yourselves for the ride, folks. There are lots of twists and turns up ahead.When I picked up the girls on Christmas day, they wanted to know when I would bring them back. I wasn't sure how to answer that because I was hoping that they would decide to stay. Lindsey demanded that I take them back on the 1st, and I reminded her that we had agreed to seek the Lord's will and do what He leads

Brendanoreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-88666358196563351082007-01-08T01:06:00.000-05:002007-01-08T01:12:11.386-05:00

I've just spent two weeks with both my girls, and I'm blown away by how much has happened in such a short time. I picked them up from their dad's in the wee hours of Christmas morning then drove to my mom's to spend a couple of days. It was a very pleasant visit, with the exception of having my daughters tell me that they would only go home with me if they don't have to stay. Sheesh, who's the

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-43355330616841014792006-12-21T01:13:00.000-05:002007-01-21T21:00:53.558-05:00

I've run across several Christian debates in blogland over whose doctrine is most biblical. The interesting thing is how many points of view there are, and the funny thing is that these same debates have been going on for centuries. There really is nothing new under the sun. The sad thing is that, much like a political debate, each side has a tendency to misrepresent the other side's stance.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-36002438531899549842006-12-16T12:46:00.000-05:002006-12-16T16:48:17.896-05:00

BooMama's Tour of Homes™ Christmas Edition is well under way, and I'm not ready for it. Maybe in the next day or two, or perhaps later tonight, I will have a few photos to post. That is if my cheap digital camera will work. Unlike this family from my hometown, I'm not big on stringing lights "all over the where" as my brother used to say.Their display grew so large (3 million lights, Barb)

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-490168210754288902006-12-11T23:47:00.000-05:002006-12-12T00:25:36.389-05:00

Last week, one of my favorite people in the blogosphere decided that I deserve an award "Just Because" I'm on her blogroll. Thank you, Grafted Branch! I am touched and honored. You are truly a blessing!In other news. . .Last Thursday after our handbell performance at one of our local hospitals, I had the privilege of fellowshipping with some of the other ringers (or ding-a-lings, as our

Brendanoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-96135240569462662006-12-03T00:19:00.000-05:002006-12-03T01:04:44.171-05:00

1. Egg nog or hot chocolate? Hot chocolate. With or without marshmallows. My grandma (dad's mom) made the best hot cocoa ever.2. Does Santa wrap presents or just set them under the tree? That Santa is so unpredictable. Sometimes he wraps, but usually he doesn't.3. Colored lights or white? I prefer white, but since my beloved does the honors, we always have colored lights. We don't do lights

Brendanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-88276056508782721962006-12-01T19:19:00.000-05:002006-12-01T19:36:18.509-05:00

Okay, I've been looking around at all the options that are available, and I'm overwhelmed. I had no idea there were so many choices!I need recommendations for curriculum for high school students. I keep coming back to Alpha and Omega, and I'm also wondering about Abeka. Anyone tried these or know someone who has? If not, what do you use and how did you decide? Anything you can tell me will

Brendanoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-13203755991341078612006-11-27T22:50:00.000-05:002006-11-27T22:53:45.369-05:00

I've been thinking. I could be just a tad warped. I don't know where this stuff comes from, but sometimes I crack me up. Is it possible to be too easily amused?Perhaps. Still, I can't help wondering if it occurred to any of the fine folks at Fisher-Price that "Tinkle Me Elmo" might be a good name for this toy.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-86132367536153198852006-11-26T12:11:00.000-05:002006-11-26T16:18:16.917-05:00

We are back home after 3 full days of family fun. And I do mean FULL. Oh my goodness, all the food! We spent Thanksgiving day visiting with my mom and dad and my sisters and their husbands and kids. What a crazy bunch of folks. I don't remember when I have laughed so hard. On Friday, we gathered around the TV to watch the Hogs lose to the LSU Tigers, then I ventured out with my girls to do

Brendanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-68485068644784037372006-11-21T23:44:00.000-05:002006-11-22T01:57:33.799-05:00

This is pretty much a token post because it's been almost a week since my last post, and I'll be away until Sunday. Thought I'd make that little announcement in case the Ring of ThievesTM wants to pay a visit to my humble abode. Maybe whoever-you-are wouldn't mind tidying up the place a bit? I'd be ever so grateful.Okay then, on with the randomness.You won't believe what I've been up to. Barb

Brendanoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-91224488932248514712006-11-17T00:16:00.000-05:002006-11-17T01:01:00.375-05:00

Hi! Didja miss me? I've been keeping busy (not really, but it sounds good.) I have accomplished a thing or two, though. Like cleaning the kitchen and cooking a few meals. And watching back to back episodes of Star Wars while snuggling on the sofa with my beloved. Good stuff, that. The snuggling, not Star Wars.Now I must confess that I'm not ready for Christmas. In case you haven't noticed

Brendanoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-69904977046291245042006-11-09T12:35:00.000-05:002006-11-09T12:44:34.338-05:00

I received this notice in my inbox this morning, and I couldn't resist passing it along.Athens, (GA)--UGA football practice was delayed nearly two hours today after a player reportedly found an unknown white powdery substance on the practice field. Head coach Mark Richt immediately suspended practice and called the police and federal investigators.After a complete analysis, FBI forensic experts

Brendanoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-91772646446048228812006-10-31T22:52:00.000-05:002006-10-31T22:59:57.414-05:00

Found this article at The Sacred Sandwich. In light of yesterday's post, I just had to link it.Browse around while you're there, and be sure to check out their photo gallery. Enjoy!

Brendanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-76541651420856335802006-10-30T19:17:00.000-05:002006-10-30T23:35:18.564-05:00

Our pastor said something yesterday that sounded a bit strange to me, but I don't think it's the first time I've heard him say it. Before I tell you what he said, let me tell you about the service.Since it was a 5th Sunday, the ministerial team decided to try something new. If it went over well, it would become a regular event. Rather than having the pastor preach a traditional sermon, we had

Brendanoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-35911548206978935822006-10-23T20:58:00.000-05:002006-10-23T21:36:47.530-05:00

Wednesday, November 1, Everyday Mommy will begin sharing some ideas for keeping Christ in Christmas. On the eve of that day, many Christians will be participating in another kind of celebration. I know that many churches provide an alternative to this pagan holiday, such as "Trunk or Treat" or "Harvest Festival", but I wonder how many of us see this not as an alternative to, but as an

Brendanoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-88635710362148079792006-10-21T16:24:00.000-05:002006-10-21T19:13:41.548-05:00

My beloved is away for the weekend on a camping trip with Andrew's Boy Scout troop. He tried to talk me into going along, but really, I'd rather do laundry. Now I do love me some camping, you know, when there's fun to be had, like the last time we went. It was an adventure for me because the only kind of camping I'd ever done was in a camper or in a designated campsite at a state park. The

Brendanoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-87625086301244210332006-10-14T15:41:00.000-05:002006-10-14T15:51:35.966-05:00

Lindsey seems to have changed her mind already about coming at semester. Her dad rescheduled her orthodontic appointment, on his own, and she got a job at Sonic. Some things are just too good to be true. Still praying that she'll come around.Sarah went to church Wednesday night for the "Heaven's Gates, Hell's Flames" drama production that they put on every year at this time. Following the

Brendanoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-87408951274868280912006-10-09T22:03:00.000-05:002006-10-09T23:30:47.154-05:00

Most of you know about the situation with my girls and have been lifting us up in prayer, and I am ever so grateful for your caring hearts. More than that, I am thankful for God's faithfulness to His children. You may recall the word of encouragement I received a few weeks ago at my women's retreat from our speaker, who shared with me her vision of a train as she prayed over me. She felt that

Brendanoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-50619215789066881802006-10-01T22:00:00.000-05:002006-10-01T22:09:34.100-05:00

God began a good work in me during a revival service, when at age 9, I followed my parents and sisters to the altar to join the church we had been attending. We were all baptized the following Sunday. We attended church faithfully for a few years, then my dad stopped going altogether, and my mom continued to take us or to put us on the church bus when she didn't go herself.We were well-behaved

Brendanoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-64875930620965385282006-09-28T00:04:00.000-05:002006-09-27T23:08:00.033-05:00

1) Exercise - I seriously need to get up off my computer-chair-shaped behind and go walking.2) Cook - It's been too long since I've fed my husband a home-cooked meal.3) Clean - The bedrooms are disaster areas. My husband cleaned the kitchen and living room while I was away on retreat, and I really should tackle the rest of the house.4) Sew - I've outgrown most of my clothes, and I've got

Brendanoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-90017762265099894302006-09-26T17:11:00.000-05:002006-09-26T19:33:12.468-05:00

Life seems to have suddenly gotten in the way of blogging. I know I'm not the only one who has had to step back and take a hard look at my priorities. For me, blogging began as a way to connect with other Christian women. It was to be a place to share experiences, good or bad, and to encourage and to be encouraged. It has done that for me, but it has also taken up a large portion of time that

Brendanoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-70134494819320749282006-09-22T13:38:00.000-05:002006-09-22T13:42:48.349-05:00

Y'all enjoy your weekend! I'll be back Sunday evening.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-46726636200492315552006-09-18T00:04:00.000-05:002006-09-18T01:02:36.209-05:00

Some of you may be aware that I have a second blog. I had planned to use it as sort of a personal prayer journal, but since I began blogging, I have encountered many people for whom I have felt a burden to lift up in prayer. You may find your name or the name of a loved one mentioned there. Some have not been mentioned for the sake of confidentiality, but I have committed to pray daily for each

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-23902513323921192202006-09-16T12:44:00.000-05:002006-09-16T13:19:50.514-05:00

Kristen over at Mama's So Called Life has reached her 125th post. She's hoping to mark the occasion by getting 125 comments. Will you help her out? Please drop by her place and leave her a comment (or two.) Thanks!

Brendanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-29139918396056644882006-09-14T22:57:00.000-05:002006-09-12T23:07:52.273-05:00

My good friend, Barb, at A Chelsea Morning asks "How Did You Meet Your Honey?" I'm a couple of days behind, but I thought I'd share, since so many of you have. I've enjoyed all the stories I've read so far.I've mentioned before that Carl and I met online while playing trivia in a chatroom on MSN. I was separated, living in an apartment, and trying to save up enough money to file for divorce.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-32699564669868847812006-09-10T16:39:00.000-05:002006-09-10T16:49:48.950-05:00

Everyday Mommy has called into question the veracity of statements made in a commercial for the United Methodist Church. She writes:In the commercial two statements were made:"None of us is qualified to judge others.""When you truly embrace diversity you embrace God."Are these statements Biblically accurate?I have not seen the commercial, so my assessment of the accuracy of these statements is

Brendanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-52506508889829324332006-09-08T17:32:00.000-05:002006-09-08T17:55:54.230-05:00

Please, before you read any further, pray for Amy.For those of you who have had trouble leaving comments from beta blogger to blogger or vice versa, there is a solution.At the bottom of the comment box, if the blog allows anyone to comment, you'll see "Choose an identity" - this gives you three options:a) Google/Blogger, which is supposed to allow you to use either account. So far, it hasn't

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-73422609166336253142006-09-06T19:13:00.000-05:002006-09-06T19:49:01.631-05:00

This whole Beta Blogger business is just a wee bit flusterating. I can leave comments only on blogs that allow anonymous comments. For those of you who don't, just know that I am catching up on my reading, and if your email link is provided in your profile, I will let you know that I've visited.Alrighty then. I've been tagged by Cheryl who's wondering just how much we southern women have in

Brendanoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-14782730698804450782006-09-04T14:30:00.000-05:002006-09-04T15:37:34.785-05:00

I'm ba-ack! Thank you all for your prayers concerning our trip. And you were right - God did surprise us. Even before I saw any of your comments, I knew that we were covered in prayer. We arrived Saturday morning to find out that we were all invited to a birthday celebration for my aunt and my granddaddy that evening. We got to visit with my grandparents, my aunt and uncle, my cousin and his

Brendanoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-3437474325062666122006-09-01T18:37:00.000-05:002006-09-01T19:06:36.527-05:00

I used to love 3-day weekends, but these days all my long weekends are spent on the road traveling to visit my daughters. Now I do love to travel, and I am longing to go somewhere peaceful - camping in the mountains or relaxing on the beach - anywhere but Arkansas. It's not that I don't like Arkansas, it's just that we go to the same place every time. Yes, most of my family is there, and I

Brendanoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-7459937742761503282006-08-30T17:03:00.000-05:002006-08-30T17:12:23.973-05:00

I've been asked about making the switch from Blogger to Blogger beta, so in the interest of keeping my faithful readers (Diane and Barb) informed, here are a few of the differences I've noticed so far about Blogger beta:Email notifications now indicate on which post you received a comment and include a link to that person's blog as well as a link to your own post.Switching is easy, but it takes

Brendanoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-4684545388294983742006-08-29T22:01:00.000-05:002006-08-29T22:20:59.778-05:00

I was tagged by Kelli, who was tagged by Barb for this meme adapted by Code Yellow Mom from a game she saw on a pizza box.What was your favorite thing about being a kid?Weekend visits to my grandparents' farm. We'd get so dirty playing outside until dark, climbing trees and pelting each other with china berries. My cousin started it.What was your favorite subject in school?In elementary school, I

Brendanoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1156736520184850212006-08-27T21:50:00.000-05:002006-08-27T22:42:00.946-05:00

Well, Barb's at it again. She does this thing that inspires me to post when I would otherwise have been uninspired. I just love her. Can't you tell? Hers is the first name in my word cloud. You were probably thinking that's just because it's alphabetical, and while that's true, it's also true that we're like twins separated at birth by a few years and biological parents. Seriously! Yeah,

Brendanoreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1156702500569979812006-08-27T12:23:00.000-05:002006-08-27T13:15:05.660-05:00

Yes, I've done it again. I went and changed my template. I get bored too easily, which is really a shame because I'm one of the most boring people I know. Makes you wonder how I stand myself, don't it? The porch in the photo isn't mine, but I do wish it were. I found the photo online at a free site a while back, and I've forgotten the name of the site. I will be researching that today so I

Brendanoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1156619633623149792006-08-26T13:54:00.000-05:002006-08-26T18:20:41.520-05:00

San Francisco, March 2006Grab the Scavenger Hunt code.Photo Theme List. Join the blogroll. Visit participants.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1156615995312438902006-08-26T13:11:00.000-05:002006-08-27T11:55:07.303-05:00

I saw this at Robin's and at Barb's and I thought it was pretty cool. If you'd like to see yours, go here.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1156478195267812072006-08-24T19:04:00.000-05:002006-08-27T12:22:18.966-05:00

My good friend Barb has tagged me yet again. She knows I can't resist any opportunity to talk about my kids. Fortunately for you, I only get to share 3 things about each of them. This is the best photo we have of all of them together, taken several years ago, and it's one of my favorites. Lindsey:1) She's 16 going on 21. She's fashion-conscious and loves to shop. I miss having her as my

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1156209820930935202006-08-21T19:36:00.000-05:002006-08-21T20:23:41.576-05:00

I've been tagged so much lately that I'm starting to feel like Minnie Pearl. Lauren tagged me for this one a while back, and I'm just now getting to it. Sorry, Lauren! I think it's been around a few times, and I don't know who else to tag, so I'm just going to put this one out there. 1. One book that changed your life: Besides the Bible? Returning to Holiness by Dr. Gregory R. Frizzell.2.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1156130185023738592006-08-20T21:43:00.000-05:002006-08-20T22:18:18.683-05:00

Barb and Laurel Wreath both tagged me for this fun meme. I knew I shoulda done it already, then I could have tagged Barb before she got me. Ah, well, here goes:If you could write a novel about any subject, what would it be?(Just the subject–don’t give away your plot idea!)Mine would be the story of a young maiden who isn't aware of her beauty. She longs to be adored, but she has been deceived

Brendanoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1156033513827072282006-08-19T18:16:00.000-05:002006-08-19T21:31:21.740-05:00

I was born and raised in Arkansas, and I moved to Georgia a little over two years ago. When I was a kid, our vacations were road trips. Twice, we drove west to Merced, California to visit relatives, and once, we drove north into Canada. When I was in high school, I went on a youth mission trip to Fort Wayne, Indiana. I've flown to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and vacationed several times in

Brendanoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1155867319902544802006-08-17T20:36:00.000-05:002006-08-17T21:15:20.110-05:00

Trying to think of a hundred interesting things about me was harder than I expected. I'm sure there are tons of things no one really wants to know, so I'll just keep those to myself. I have tried not to repeat the things I've already mentioned in previous memes. To those of you who were looking forward to this, I hope you're not too disappointed. Well, let's get on with it, shall we?1. I am

Brendanoreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1155700851107960182006-08-15T22:14:00.000-05:002006-08-15T23:00:54.993-05:00

In light of the fact that my next post will be a doozy, I'll keep this short and sweet.I've been tagged by Lauren and Laurel Wreath for a couple of book memes, and I'll get to those as soon as I can. Thank you ladies for thinking of me!I learned from my little girlfriend Kayla's dad today that she's been in the hospital for a week(!) recovering from a car accident. Kayla is my daughter's soccer

Brendanoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1155404669028616062006-08-13T22:40:00.000-05:002006-08-13T23:28:58.863-05:00

Last week in Blogland proved to be quite interesting and thought-provoking. Boomama started it off with this discussion about the Sovereignty of God, which led to many more discussions and shared testimonies, lots of encouragement and prayers for those who are struggling, and most importantly, evidence of the very topic of discussion. The way I see it, it was no coincidence that some of those who

Brendanoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1155271444090624092006-08-10T23:39:00.000-05:002006-08-11T00:37:41.743-05:00

First things first: Please go here and pray for Kim's husband's safety. I'll wait until you get back.This is the first year I haven't had to buy school supplies. I didn't get to take my girls shopping for school clothes, not that I miss shopping, it's just... different. I'm not fond of shopping, especially with my older daughter, who is so picky - MY WORD, that child is impossible to please. OK,

Brendanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1155098529283881582006-08-09T23:00:00.000-05:002006-08-10T00:25:46.593-05:00

A week and a half ago, I made the trip to Arkansas fully expecting my girls to come home with me. I have explained to them and their dad (and anyone else who'll listen) my reasons for believing that they need to be here with their mother. They don't necessarily disagree, it's just not what they want. Their dad disagrees that it's what they need because it's not what they want. I've been praying

Brendanoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1155076607281524342006-08-08T16:55:00.000-05:002006-08-08T17:36:47.506-05:00

I love summer. I thrive in warm temperatures. I'm cold natured, which means if the air conditioning is working like it should, it chills me to the bone. My office building is so cold that I look forward to getting into my car at lunchtime just to thaw out. I keep a sweater in my office so I won't freeze to death. I'm the last person you'll hear complain about the heat. You know if I'm hot,

Brendanoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1154963800169447352006-08-07T09:46:00.000-05:002006-08-07T10:16:40.373-05:00

Allow me to direct your attention to my sidebar. See my new button? (Pray for Emma Grace.) If you click on it, you can read more about her and get the code to add this button to your site. Go get yours today!

Brendanoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1154649618948145232006-08-03T18:32:00.000-05:002006-08-03T19:00:18.993-05:00

By now, you've seen the update on Addison, who is in ICU recovering from surgery. As you continue to pray for her and her family, please include Peyton, Vicki's granddaughter who was born 3 weeks early in respiratory distress, and is also in ICU. God is working in mighty ways to remind us of His faithfulness.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1154579732826008872006-08-02T22:56:00.000-05:002006-08-02T23:35:33.046-05:00

First, remember to pray for Addison, her doctors, and her family. Her surgery is (tomorrow) Thursday.Second, if your family is intact, if your husband is a godly provider and spiritual leader in the home, if your home is filled with love, if your marriage is solid and your children are safe and sound, hit your knees and thank Almighty God for His blessings. Pray a hedge of protection around

Brendanoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1154478007015425552006-08-01T19:16:00.000-05:002006-08-02T00:17:15.530-05:00

Great news, y'all! Amy is in remission. Praise the Lord! I'm so excited for her and her family! If I hadn't been raised a Baptist, I'd be dancing!Thank you all for your prayers for me and my girls. I nearly 'bout cried myself sick all the way home Sunday, and I looked a sight Monday (had the day off work, so I didn't scare anyone), but I'm ok now. For the most part. I know God has it all under

Brendanoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1154305365957826782006-07-30T15:06:00.000-05:002006-07-30T19:22:46.466-05:00

I've just returned from a gut-wrenching, teeth-clenching weekend at my parents' home. After having spoken with my daughters, who informed me that they would not be coming home with me, I almost decided not to make the trip. It's no fun having your heart ripped out, but I couldn't not go. I woke my husband around 3 am and told him I had to go. We took turns driving and napping, and I prayed

Brendanoreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1154056193875723462006-07-27T20:42:00.000-05:002006-07-28T07:54:51.670-05:00

Welcome! So glad you could stop by. Our house was built in the '60's and was one of the first in the neighborhood. It needs a bit of a makeover, but it's home. Come on in! Here's my little corner of the world, where the bloggy magic happens. Can you see whose blog I'm visiting? It's BooMama, blogger extraordinaire! She's the organizer of this tour, so be sure you drop by her place when you leave

Brendanoreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1154030855521346972006-07-27T14:47:00.000-05:002006-07-27T15:07:36.010-05:00

Okay, yeah, I know it's a dorky title, but what do you expect from the likes of me? So here's the deal. There's a brand new blogger in town, and I think it would be really swell if we all went over and gave her a warm bloggy welcome. Tomorrow is her one-week bloggiversary, so don't forget to wish her a happy one! Well, what are you waiting for? Go!

Brendanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1153968831966837872006-07-26T18:29:00.000-05:002006-07-27T14:46:58.383-05:00

The coming weekend holds a lot of uncertainty for me, and although I am very much looking forward to seeing my girls again, I'm also dreading the battle of wills that is sure to ensue. Being apart from them is difficult, and phone conversations with them are almost painful. Scratch that. They are painful. Hearing my child tell me that she doesn't care what the Bible says and I can't make her live

Brendanoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1153798990850631022006-07-24T21:34:00.000-05:002006-07-24T22:43:10.946-05:00

Got this one from Grafted Branch.1. NAME: Brenda2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Everyone named before 11:45 pm on March 9, 1966.3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Last night, over my kids4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? not really5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCHMEAT? bologna (pronounced baloney)6. KIDS? Yeah. Wanna trade? They behave better for other people. 7. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE

Brendanoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1153694881149460792006-07-23T15:52:00.000-05:002006-07-23T17:48:01.443-05:00

I've spent the afternoon catching up on some of my blog reads and thinking about the people I've encountered through blogging. I would never have met so many were it not for the internet, and I'm thankful that God has provided this means to reach out to others. In my little world, my trials are a pretty big deal, but they're pretty insignificant when I consider what others are going through.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1153602879756180672006-07-22T14:56:00.000-05:002006-07-22T16:14:43.086-05:00

Thanks to Lori, I just had to find out for myself just how nerdy I am. Okay, I realize it isn't an IQ test, but 45? So I don't really qualify for geek status, no big surprise there, but I'm a little disappointed that my score isn't a little higher. I guess I was hoping to be more geek-nerd than dork-nerd. Is there a difference? The fact that you asked means you probably don't consider

Brendanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1153525138088669872006-07-21T17:40:00.000-05:002006-07-21T18:38:59.330-05:00

Melissa at Breath of Life has come up with the fantabulous idea of recognizing a person, place, or thing that has had an impact on your life each week and giving a shout out to God for using him/her/it to bless you. Well, I don't know about you, but I sometimes need to be reminded to be thankful in everything. So how 'bout it? Let's lift our hearts toward heaven and praise the Lord!This week,

Brendanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1153443636990616162006-07-20T19:13:00.000-05:002006-07-21T07:50:42.420-05:00

Usually I put these posts on my prayer blog, but it doesn't get as much traffic, and we need to get the word out. Please pray for Amy and her family, Elise and her boys, Paulette and her children, this family, and this family. Updated to add Addison and her parents.If I've missed anyone, please let me know. I consider it a privilege to lift up my brothers and sisters in prayer, whether or not I

Brendanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1153412293937510642006-07-20T11:18:00.000-05:002006-07-20T12:21:59.336-05:00

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 (New International Version)A few years ago, my church participated in the Purpose Driven Life study, and I don't remember the scriptural soundness of the book coming into question. I'm sure if there had been any doubt, my pastor would have declined to participate.

Brendanoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1153285041683099022006-07-18T23:01:00.000-05:002006-08-27T12:11:24.623-05:00

Emily, far left, is Carl's oldest child and the youngest of our three girls. Andrew, far right, is his son and the youngest of the bunch. Sarah, 2nd from left, is my youngest, and Lindsey, 2nd from right, is my firstborn and the oldest of the bunch. I've written quite a bit about Lindsey and Sarah, but Emily and Andrew don't get as much air time, mainly because they don't cause me as much grief,

Brendanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1153168679238100632006-07-18T08:30:00.000-05:002006-07-18T09:28:46.410-05:00

It's been quiet around the blogoshpere lately, at least in these parts. Summer has finally caught up with us, and we've been busy enjoying the great outdoors. I've also been playing around with my template, looking for just the right picture to put in my header, and experimenting with the digital imaging software that came with my new computer. It's not as versatile as Photoshop, but it will do a

Brendanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26758856.post-1152987203298399942006-07-15T12:20:00.000-05:002006-07-15T13:13:24.066-05:00

Y'all, you may remember my mentioning that I get a lot of email from family members, but very few of them are ever personal messages. Most often they're those crazy "say a prayer and pass this on to 7 people and you will see a miracle" ones that have the opposite effect on me (irk rather than bless). But sometimes, something worth reading makes its way into my inbox. Usually it's something I've

Brendanoreply@blogger.com14