Wednesday, May 23
Homecoming!!!
Everybody dance now - my Babies are coming home from the west a week from today!!!!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/23/2007 04:40:00 AM   0 comments
Tuesday, May 22
Reflections and Promises
Since Mother's Day, I have had many opportunities to observe the young mothers of our church family, listen to my own three daughters (in-laws included in the number) talk through their present day 'mothering' experiences, converse with my "Mothers" as I reflect on their wisdom in childrearing, and meditate upon biblical examples of both great and inappropriate matronly figures. The most thought provoking lessons I have learned about motherhood/mothering has not come from the above sources but rather from their offspring - the blessings of GOD - the children!
I learned from a very visible (and cherished by other adult women) lady's kiddos that they can see Mom for what she doesn't say and that superficial 'agape' and concern is just skin deep. They are learning firsthand by her actions that when one does not meet her expectations it is acceptable behavior to ignore the problem (person) away and just not deal with it. How very sad that type of adult behavior is because how is the person wronged (ignored into oblivion) suppose to know that this Mom has issues that involve her past. The kiddos see it and think "Mom does it so when my friend isn't "qualified" in my eyes, I don't have to be a friend with him." True AGAPE toward another would meet, discuss, express emotions and pray with the other. (I must mark my book of THINGS TO DO - approach with love and kindness this lady...see how I can help if she wants help. And pray - pray that she will do what Jesus did with the woman taken in adultery...forgive her and love her enough to help her not to sin again.)
I watched as several young mothers rejoiced with two of our other young mothers who were trimphant against severe fleshly trials. One mother was able to conceive and is about to deliver her first child after three consecutive miscarriages. How truly blessed the fruit of her womb will be as she brings daily happiness into her young parents' lives causing the sorrow of lost children to only a dim remembrance! The other single mom was able to adopt not only the first child she began caring for (as a result of abuse from biological parents) but ALSO this little daughter's brother who is just a month old! Jewels in her crown and a grand inheritance indeed! (I will add these young mothers to my prayer list that their futures will be transformed with many more awesome acts and answers of their personal prayers to the FATHER!)
As for my own daughters, the eldest (DiL) along with my son made the decision to assist her unwed sister in Atlanta who is due in September. She'll be there to financially assist for at least a year providing relief for a very stressed sister as well as work toward gaining that ever necessary experience in her chosen field of employment. Selflessly, my son has agreed to the arrangement as he knows he must finish as many courses at his college before he redeploys to Iraq. The college town is within an hour's driving distance of Atlanta and so they can be together throughout the week and weekends until he leaves. And while he's away, my oldest will have the comfort of being with and helping out her sister. (Again, pray for sister, daughter and son to be aware of each other's spiritual, emotional, and physical needs in such a world as this.)
MY daughter out west will be coming home to Dixie in two weeks. Hubby (my only SiL) will be deployed in early August to AL Asad. He will make ready a house/home while he's here so that his girls (daughter and their two daughters) will have natural and church family to care for them in his absence. My daughter is pregnant with their third. This will also give me a chance to 'get to know' their second daughter (my third grandbaby) who was born out there - a treat I'm really looking forward to whole heartedly experiencing! I will be able to reconnect with my longest known granddaughter AND be able to assist my daughter with the girls during the pregnancy. (Remeber to thank GOD daily for my son who is willing to sacrifice for his country and unconditionally loves my daughter and their children enough to give me such a priceless gift - time to watch, play, and grow with his family.) MY daughter's sweet and undying love for her family has rubbed into the grain of character in my second granddaughter - she (g-daughter) expresses her undying admiration and LOVE to her Daddy daily - and almost daily to her Mimomma and Granddaddy when she can get ahold of the phone!
My youngest daughter (who is married to my oldest son) gave my life regeneration with the birth of our fourth granddaughter. What a treasure to actually hold the newest when she was less than 15 minutes old - something I will hold in my heart forever! She allows us to tend to her oldest (my oldest granddaughter who is actually a 'step' in reality but more and more precious each moment she spends with me) daughter. I was able to see the tenderness Mommy taught her as she remarked while holding new baby sister, "I love you, I have always loved you, and I will always protect you because you are my baby sister." That's hearfelt agape that is learned by example and practiced through experience with your own mother! (Ask GOD to protect the tenderness of this family and to grant me the precious gift of my granddaughter's tender, sweet heart - to love others just because we are 'related' in HIS eyes.)
This concludes part one of Reflections and Promises - look for part two tomorrow night!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/22/2007 12:42:00 AM   0 comments
Sunday, May 20
Saturday Snicker



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posted by Marsha @ 5/20/2007 12:14:00 AM   0 comments
Saturday, May 19
Photo Hunters


At 48 hours old, our newest little blessing, Abby Grace is very alert and just ready to get 'into' the swing of things! Of course, Mimomma is doing a deja vu on this one as her Daddy has equally alert and slept his first night all the way through at 15 months old!!! (Just too much going on in 'the nut house' as Uncle Cameron labeled our home with his TAG teacher in first grade!) You can enjoy some of our first 60 minutes with Abby Grace at the video shares below!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/19/2007 12:17:00 AM   0 comments
Thursday, May 17
Video Picture Share!!!!
I'm hungry!!

Now that I'm holding her, what do I do with Abigail?


posted by Marsha @ 5/17/2007 08:21:00 PM  
She don't know she's beautiful! by Sammy Kershaw

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posted by Marsha @ 5/17/2007 08:43:00 AM   2 comments
Wednesday, May 16
Madison waits for Baby Abigail

posted by Marsha @ 5/16/2007 04:53:00 PM   0 comments
Wordless Wednesday - GRACE as arrived!
My oldest holding his brand newborn - who has a ton of blonde hair just like he did - 27 years ago!!!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/16/2007 04:44:00 PM   1 comments
Sunday, May 13
Happy Mother's Day
Well, I'm back - had to keep the Shoppe while Hubby was away out-of-state at a vey close friend's memorial service in NM. I was kept soo busy! Tomorrow I will resume my writings and postings...hope to update one site and begin a new one as well this week. But for now,
I've earned the 'privilege' of resting on this, my shared day, with all of the fortunate "Mothers"....enjoy your day as I know I will!!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/13/2007 02:30:00 PM   0 comments
Saturday, May 12
Photo Hunters This Week: FIVE

Yay! My oldest granddaughter is FIVE - 5!!!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/12/2007 01:12:00 AM   0 comments
Wednesday, May 9
Wordless Wednesday
Firefighter Val as she pretends to be Uncle Trae the fire medic.
posted by Marsha @ 5/09/2007 10:07:00 PM   1 comments
Saturday, May 5
Saturday Snicker

Trouble with dying and 'going below' is when you get mad at your friends, where are you going to tell them to go?

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posted by Marsha @ 5/05/2007 10:12:00 PM   0 comments
Read the Bible in a Year Readings for May 6 - 10
May 6: 2 Samuel 7-8, 1 Chronicles 17, 2 Corinthians 1, Psalm 2
May 7: 2 Samuel 9-10, 1 Chronicles 18-19, 2 Corinthians 2
May 8: 2 Samuel 11-12, 1 Chronicles 20, 2 Corinthians 3, Psalm 20
May 9: 2 Samuel 13-14, 2 Corinthians 4, Psalm 51
May 10: 2 Samuel 15-17, 2 Corinthians 5, Psalms 32 and 71
posted by Marsha @ 5/05/2007 10:12:00 PM   0 comments
Weekend Reflections
After such a busy last week, I felt a crash coming on, so I tried to take it easy. On Monday and Tuesday, I spent the majority of those days putting 'finishing touches' on one of my new blog spots I have labeled, "When Life Hands You Lemons,". It's to be dedicated to tiny snippet stories I have heard from PB's sermons the previous week. These Biblical 'paraphrased' stories will springboard ideas for teaching little kids from different areas of curriculum while using a variety of teaching activities and learning styles. Hopefully, I'll be able to continue 'teaching' this way while giving a few interesting tips and resources for those of us with small children and grandchildren. So far response has being very supportive and great!
Wednesday was spent helping Hubby 'get ready for his trip' this coming weekend. I'll have to run the Shoppe while he's gone....no easy fete since I'm not very knowledgeable in the areas of gunsmithing, gun products, etc. Trae plans to drop by and help some - if Abigail Grace doesn't arrive before her Granddaddy returns from the West. That evening after church service, I spent until 5 a.m. glazing Sherry's watermelon bowl. (It was a great success at the ceramics shop and a really big hit with Sherry. Time well spent!)
Crash day came Thursday afternoon and lasted until Friday evening. I tried (and wasn't very passionate) to help at the store, go to scripture reading class, and get ready for Santuck Flea Market on Saturday. But it was all overwhelming. So choices were made - a long night of rest on Friday evening and no Satuck on Saturday (boohoohoo ;-[ ) But I did get such a pleasant response for the birthday gift Sherry received and the birthday party grub was good.
This evening was spent talking to my lovely grown stay-at-home Mommy of two Daughter Hayley! 29 days until she returns to Dixie with Hubby, and girls (and one in the oven ;-)) Sad thing is that Kenny is scheduled to return to Iraq in early August for 6-9 months and will not be here for Hayley's 25th birthday, the new baby's birth, T-giving or Christmas! But LORD willing, he'll return by Valentine's Day and be relocated to the east coast upon his return.
I am thankful that he'll be in a safer area than most serving our country although his job demands no less than 100% accuracy. I'm thankful that they've already secured a rental home - just three doors down from Hayley's oldest brother Trae who was involved in a freak accident while attending a victim (He's a fire medic with the local FD.) I'm thankful that Trae is very much alive and on the road to recovery and that his new sweet baby should be here by next WR. I'm thankful for my children, grandchildren, and for those bloggers out there who offer strength and encouragement like Annie and Val, Dirkey and Laura, Heather and tegdirb82, and Rachel - a fellow textile artist - who took time to send a message all of which brightened my days this week.
And I'm thankful that LORD GOD blessed me with enough talent to see a way to help others this week. HE's always there just when I need HIM to carry me through it all. May HE bless your LORD's Day and the upcoming week with many wonderful SON-filled days!
grins,

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posted by Marsha @ 5/05/2007 10:12:00 PM   2 comments
I like playing in mud!



I am a retired professional educator with nothing to do except play with mud! Oh the memories it churns up when I think lovingly and longingly back to my early childhood when I was the BEST mud pie maker on the whole block! (Don't take my word for it - ask my brother and sister as I tested every single recipe out on them.)

When I had to retire from classroom work, I was completely void of what to do with my 'spare' time. Boy, oh, boy, was there ever lots and lots of it! At 48 (at my last day of public serving), I was too young for a nursing home, to shaky due to PD to work as the Tech Ed/Coord. for my school and county system, and too ornery to sit back and rest like the neurologists prescribed that I do.

Luckily for me, I was introduced to the art of ceramics by a colleague at my school. She just came over one Thursday afternoon after school and said get in the car. You're not going to just sit there and do nothing the rest of your life! Dutifully, I obeyed - after all, you must follow Doctor's and Teacher's orders.

At first, My motor coordination made everything to do with ceramics very tedious. But Judy the encourager kept after me. And I've regained my love for 'playing in mud' as I craft one of a kind gifts for family and friends. Above are two of my latest works. Both were birthday gifts to my daughters-in-law. The spaghetti gift basket was Steph's gift last week - the pasta bowl in the middle was my personal contribution crafted solely by me! The watermelon bowl is one I just picked up today. I've filled it with Cucumber-Melon 'stuff' and it's sooooo sute! I can hardly wait for her to open the wrappings today for her (Sherry's) birthday!

Thank you to my brother David, my sister Beth, and my fellow ceramist Judy for encouraging me to find the child from within!

P.S. She loved it!!! And will hhm please send an email addy - who knows you might get one similar to it....but I have to know who you are!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/05/2007 02:04:00 PM   4 comments
Friday, May 4
Bubbles Everywhere





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posted by Marsha @ 5/04/2007 11:35:00 PM   0 comments
Candy!!
(Friday Favorites is sponsored by Moments Amid Messes.)
My Friday Favorite -
My Favorite Candy is LICORICE - I'm digging that anise-flavored shoelace right now!! On the banks of the Wabash in my younger years it was a treat that no one else in my immediate family showed any interest in - so I got to savor each piece, slowly and to its fullest! jelly beans, gumdrops, shoelaces - mine all mine!



In 1993, I took the Kiddos to Europe for a 17-day, 11-countries whirlwind 'on-economy' tour and we all were quite delighted with the stronger taste of German licorice. It was less sugary than American versions and had a plethora of combinations not sampled aforetime! Our favorite combo Euro-style was coconut sandwiched between two licorice squares. (My children also share my passion for coconut!)

Big thumbs up for this licorice wheels my paramedic son brought to me this week - thanks Trae-Boy!!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/04/2007 01:43:00 AM   0 comments
Wednesday, May 2
Get Real - Bloggers without Make-up

So here we are in the "buff" so to speak!!! Neither of us are wearing make-up! HA!! Photo is linked to contest site!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/02/2007 09:48:00 PM   2 comments
Trae's Wedding and the "Best Girls"

Trae and wife are expecting Abigail Grace any day now. I wanted to share my granddaughters, Vallie - who returns for a visit one day soon - and Madison, Trae's first daughter who becomes the Big Sister when our Abby G gets here!
posted by Marsha @ 5/02/2007 02:43:00 AM   1 comments
Win an iPod!

Go register now!!!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/02/2007 02:08:00 AM   0 comments
How did she do that?
To keep it interesting without re-inventing the wheel, I borrow scripts from my favorite Javascript site, Dynamic Drive. Just cut-n-paste in most cases for a really terrific added feature to your blogspot!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/02/2007 01:51:00 AM   0 comments
Trae at Wedding - 3 years ago!



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posted by Marsha @ 5/02/2007 01:37:00 AM   0 comments

She returns from the West Coast very soon! Here's my Vallie-Girl catches bubbles - even with her nose!

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posted by Marsha @ 5/02/2007 01:26:00 AM   0 comments
Tuesday, May 1
Time Travel Tuesday

(Wherever possible, words are linked for further info.)
The year was 1967-68. Notables were:
Film - Bonnie and Clyde, Cold Hand Luke and The Graduate
World Series - Cardinals beat Red Sox in seven
Politics - Thurgood Marshall is sworn in as the first black Supreme Court Justice
NASA - Three astronauts are first Americans killed in fire on launch pad
Academy Award for Best Picture - A Man for All Seasons
Cost of bread: 22cents per loaf

My fondest memories: Being one of the 'guys' riding around with Dad's baseball All Stars with the top down in his new 1967 candy apple red Mustang, 4-H club activities, staying with Grandma B helping with my gravely sick Grandpa reading him the Psalms and watching "Captain Kangaroo" - he LOVED Mr. Green Jeans, meeting Barbara Eden ("I Dream of Jeanie" fame) and our family vacation all the way to the Little Big Horn Mountain in Wyoming!
My saddest moments included: Going to Junior High (I was SOOOO shy and didn't want to go without my brother who was two years younger), knowing that my Grandpa was dying (which actually happened less than a year later), not being an active part of my favorite aunt's wedding because I was too 'big' for a flower girl and to 'young' for a bridesmaid, and the 'poodle' perm my Momma gave me right after she cut my waist length, straight, thick, naturally blonde hair.
I was not boy crazy - why should I be? I helped out on the ball field as one of the guys!!! I dearly loved Nancy Drew books and would walk several miles to the town library to check out 3 at a time, have them read in a day, and return to the library the next day for more.
My best friend was my brother David. And our favorite pasttime was to walk to Welch's store, a couple of blocks from our tiny home, picking up glass bottles to redeem for 3-5 cents each. Then, on the spot, we'd buy 'slappin' taffy and enjoy it all the way back home. (I'd always get vanilla and he'd get chocolate. Yummmmmm!)
I was carefree and loving life in '67. Good thing, too, because it was the year just before such civil unrest and the most controversial murders of the century (King and Kennedy).

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posted by Marsha @ 5/01/2007 03:54:00 PM   0 comments
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Thursday, October 11
ABCs of Righteous Living
Excellent timing on this one, Mom! My love to you:

A lthough things are not perfect
B ecause of trial or pain
C ontinue in thanksgiving
D o not begin to blame
E ven when the times are hard
F ierce winds are bound to blow
G od is forever able
H old on to what you know
I magine life without His love
J oy would cease to be
K eep thanking Him for all the things
L ove imparts to thee
M ove out of 'Camp Complaining'
N o weapon that is known
O n earth can yield the power
P raise can do alone
Q uit looking at the future
R edeem the time at hand
S tart every day with worship
T o 'thank' is a command
U ntil we see Him coming
V ictorious in the sky
W e'll run the race with gratitude
X alting God most high
Y es, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad, but...
Z ion waits in glory...where none are ever sad!


Mom adds (and I concur):
'I AM Too blessed to be stressed!' The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance between your knees and the floor. The one who kneels to the Lord can stand up to anything. Love and peace be with you forever, Amen.

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posted by Marsha @ 10/11/2007 10:35:00 PM   0 comments
Tuesday, September 25
Wordless Wednesday - I didn't tke any of thesebut,
I wanted to share my Grand"angels" - especially the unborn Cadence through the 'eyes' of technology. (She's sticking out her tongue in that pic!)









posted by Marsha @ 9/25/2007 10:33:00 PM   2 comments
Wednesday, September 19
Wordless Wednesday - Pastoral ASF




























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posted by Marsha @ 9/19/2007 08:42:00 PM   1 comments
Tuesday, September 18
My Fork Is Ready
There was a young woman who had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and had been given three months to live. So as she was getting her things "in order," she contacted one of her pastors and had him come to her house to discuss certain aspects of her final wishes. She told him which songs she wanted sung at the service, what scriptures she would like read, and what outfit in which she wanted to be buried.
Everything was in order and the pastor was preparing to leave when the young woman suddenly remembered something very important to her. "There's one more thing," she said excitedly.
"What's that?" came the pastor's reply.
"This is very important," the young woman continued. "I want to be buried with a fork in my right hand."
The pastor stood looking at the young woman, not knowing quite what to say.
"That surprises you, doesn't it?" the young woman asked.
"Well, to be honest, I'm puzzled by the request," said the pastor.
The young woman explained. "My grandmother once told me this story, and from there on out, I have always done so. I have also, always tried to pass along its message to those I love and those who are in need of encouragement. In all my years of attending church socials and potluck dinners, I always remember that when the dishes of the main course were being cleared, someone would inevitably lean over and say, 'Keep your fork.' It was my favorite part because I knew that something better was coming like velvety chocolate cake or deep-dish apple pie. Something wonderful, and with substance!' So, I just want people to see me there in that casket with a fork in my hand and I want them to wonder, 'What's with the fork?' Then I want you to tell them: 'Keep your fork.... the best is yet to come.'"
The pastor's eyes welled up with tears of joy as he hugged the young woman good-bye. He knew this would be one of the last times he would see her before her death. But he also knew that the young woman had a better grasp of heaven than he did.
She had a better grasp of what heaven would be like than many people twice her age, with twice as much experience and knowledge. She KNEW that something better was coming.
At the funeral people were walking by the young woman's casket and they saw the pretty dress she was wearing and the fork placed in her right hand. Over and over, the pastor heard the question "What's with the fork?" And over and over he smiled.
During his message, the pastor told the people of the conversation he had with the young woman shortly before she died. He also told them about the fork and about what it symbolized to her.
The pastor told the people how he could not stop thinking about the fork and told them that they probably would not be able to stop thinking about it either.
He was right.
So the next time you reach down for your fork, let it remind you ever so gently, that the best is yet to come.
Friends are a very rare jewel, indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed. They lend an ear, they share a word of praise, and they always want to open their hearts to us.
Show your friends how much you care. Remember to always be there for them, even when you need them more. For you never know when it may be their time to "Keep your fork."
Cherish the time you have, and the memories you share. Being friends with someone is not an opportunity but a sweet responsibility.
Send this to everyone you consider a FRIEND even if it means sending back to the person who sent it to you.

Personal note - thanks, Momma! I've got my fork ready!
And keep your fork...

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posted by Marsha @ 9/18/2007 04:30:00 AM   0 comments
Thursday, September 13
Wordless Wednesday - Better LATE than Never!!
Very Late Wordless Wednesday!!

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posted by Marsha @ 9/13/2007 09:56:00 PM   0 comments
Thursday, August 23
Does "LIFE" really have a Silver Lining?
My granddaughter Ansley was diagnosed on Monday with pneumonia. That was after paramedics, ambulance workers, and hospital ER personnel poked and prodded for the better part of the day on her little 15 month old body and emotionally on her 25 year old pregnant Mommy. I didn't think we could have a worse day - until I experienced first hand the run-around with Ansley and Mommy today.

Mommy called early to ask about sending Ansley to MDO but had reservations because the 'labored breathing' had not really subsided. While Mommy talked on the phone to me, I made plans to go sit with Ansley as Mommy slept - very rough night for them both. Just as I walked out the door the phone rang - Mommy was headed to 'doc-in-a-box' because Ansley had worsened. I headed to the same location and was greeted by rude receptionist-type personnel who, three times when asked, replied "They left." She seemed annoyed at best that I'd even think to use her time asking where my daughter had taken my grand baby.

Two and a half hours later, searching two local hospitals and Mommy's physical address, I returned home to discover a message from my daughter that she and the baby had been 'sent' to the next small city's LARGER "better equipped" medical facility because pediatrics could tend to the baby's needs more efficiently and quicker. This is what military intervention had recommended via the doc-in-a-box facility. That was the first BIG lie told to my daughter.

I arrived at the hospital at 11-ish a.m. "They" were sending someone immediately to diagnose etc. and so forth. BIG LIE #2 (An RT did come every four hours or so to administer breathing treatments to Ansley - THE only consistent professional ALL day long.) My grand baby labored for hours with her breathing - she was scared of the seemingly unconcerned staff and terrified that she could not breathe. Her little face told the whole story - petrified sunken eyes, red tinged feverish cheeks, and uncontrollable twitches (at times) of fear and sobbing.

My wearied worried daughter, although 7 months heavy with a new little life growing inside, cuddled and comforted Ansley as best as she could. Her little wiser yet still youthful face told the same sort of story only from an adult "Mommy" viewpoint - dark circled sleepless eyes slightly reddened from pushing back the tears trying to be stoic, intermittent Braxton-Hicks contractions...a reaction, I believe, from sleep and nourishment deprivation (unable to rest for fear that something will happen to Ansley and "no food or drink permitted in the ER" .). ER personnel promised "to see what they could do" at 1:30 about getting Mommy something to eat - BIG LIE #3 - I broke the rule at 3 o'clock because Mommy hadn't had anything since sending Big Sister to school at 6:30 a.m..We gave anything Ansley wanted from our purses just to get her some kind of sustenance - she tried to eat fruit bars, Nerds, peanut butter from crackers and water. My two actually three "babies" were being mistreated by professionals who had promised to CARE for them!!

Gratefully, Mommy has a beautiful MiL who retrieved Big Sister from school and joined us at the hospital. That was at 4:30 p.m. Since 10:30 a.m. Mommy and Ansley had inhabited ER #22 triage 'closet' - waiting area at the point I arrived at 11-ish was COMPLETELY vacant; when Big Sis and MiL got there the same area was overflowing with all sorts of ailments. Ansley still had not seen a physician.

After a brief visit with Mommy and Ansley, I took Big Sis to my house (I needed an extra change of clothing for tomorrow) to see Granddaddy. Then we headed to her home where Big Sis would feel more comfortable and be ready for the school day tomorrow after a good night of sleep. (Big Sis's wish) At 9 o'clock a physician was on his way to check things out and admit Ansley. BIG LIE # 4. I requested that Mommy call me with room info as soon as that was available. Big Sis finally drifted off into a fitful 'sleep' - but not before expressing her 'Big Sister 5 year old fears' for Ansley and Mommy as well as for Daddy - he's out of the country with the military doing what he does best for the rest of us in the USA. Tearfully she said her little heart is "'broken" (her word for her feelings) because she could not do anything to help - "I'm too little." Good opportunity for object lesson about GOD's love and care for us AND the POWER of prayer. I know Daddy's heart is "broken" as well for his adoring pregnant wife, his temporarily 'guilt-ridden' oldest daughter, and for his sweet yet very sick baby....8,000+ miles around the world having to rely on professional personnel who have yet to put their ducks in a row....wishing he was the one HERE pushing to get comfort and relief for his young and growing family...Please GOD ALMIGHTY grant him peace perfect peace throughout this ordeal.

Mommy returned the promised phone call - ER #22 triage closet would be their room. Seems that Someone dropped the ball at 11-ish that morning and forgot to tell Anyone that little Ansley was struggling so that No One would be able admit Ansley because Everyone had completely filled the pediatric unit/floor. Mommy had tried to get assistance all day long....I had asked question after question to get the process moving to get relief for my Babies....MiL made phone call after phone call to find that elusive Someone or aid for Mommy and Grand baby... And now there's "no room in the inn" - so what about another floor? Did Everyone get all those spaces, too?

For those of you who know me, I usually see the silver lined clouds when the 'sparkle' is not yet evident. This post is a very raw self-examination of my emotions. I cannot seem to find the Silver Lined Cloud tonight. I am "broken" - not just my heart...my feelings, my thoughts, my actions, and as of right now my words. I am thankful that Big Sis fitfully tosses and turns in the bed so she does not experience my doubtful disposition. I guess, in a simple way, that can be the beginning of the SILVER LINING HUNT.

I ask for prayers on Ansley's and Hayley's behalves. I DO believe that Phil 4:9 holds a promise and blessing for me - in HIS time....maybe tomorrow.

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posted by Marsha @ 8/23/2007 02:13:00 AM   1 comments
Thursday, August 16
Photo Hunters: Twosies-twosies
"The animals, they went in,
They went in by twosies-twosies;
The animals, they went in,
They went in by twosies-twosies-
El-e-phants and -- kangaroosies-roosies
Children of the LORD"
I gave my Baby Ruth a Noah's Ark set to play with this week. I believe I'm seeing double - two of everything including Baby Ruth!!!



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posted by Marsha @ 8/16/2007 11:04:00 PM   21 comments
Wednesday, August 15
One HOT ZOO Trip





















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posted by Marsha @ 8/15/2007 12:53:00 AM   1 comments
Friday, August 10
Ducks in a row - NOT!!!
I had a little trouble getting my ducks in a row this week. I spent five hours in the country garden....

Such CONFUSION....

Finally got'em in a circular group!


But I had better luck with my vegies...



They kinda resembled ducks, I thought!





The end result was beautiful - and YUMMY!!











posted by Marsha @ 8/10/2007 06:55:00 AM   6 comments
Tuesday, August 7
Wordless Wednesday - Gardening can be tough on a 5-year-old!!










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posted by Marsha @ 8/07/2007 10:19:00 PM   0 comments
About Me
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Name: Marsha
Location: Sweet Home,, Heart of Dixie, United States

Dynamic, passionate, and a little crazy!

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Thursday, October 11
ABCs of Righteous Living
Excellent timing on this one, Mom! My love to you:

A lthough things are not perfect
B ecause of trial or pain
C ontinue in thanksgiving
D o not begin to blame
E ven when the times are hard
F ierce winds are bound to blow
G od is forever able
H old on to what you know
I magine life without His love
J oy would cease to be
K eep thanking Him for all the things
L ove imparts to thee
M ove out of 'Camp Complaining'
N o weapon that is known
O n earth can yield the power
P raise can do alone
Q uit looking at the future
R edeem the time at hand
S tart every day with worship
T o 'thank' is a command
U ntil we see Him coming
V ictorious in the sky
W e'll run the race with gratitude
X alting God most high
Y es, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad, but...
Z ion waits in glory...where none are ever sad!


Mom adds (and I concur):
'I AM Too blessed to be stressed!' The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance between your knees and the floor. The one who kneels to the Lord can stand up to anything. Love and peace be with you forever, Amen.

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posted by Marsha @ 10/11/2007 10:35:00 PM   0 comments
Tuesday, September 25
Wordless Wednesday - I didn't tke any of thesebut,
I wanted to share my Grand"angels" - especially the unborn Cadence through the 'eyes' of technology. (She's sticking out her tongue in that pic!)









posted by Marsha @ 9/25/2007 10:33:00 PM   2 comments
Wednesday, September 19
Wordless Wednesday - Pastoral ASF




























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posted by Marsha @ 9/19/2007 08:42:00 PM   1 comments
Tuesday, September 18
My Fork Is Ready
There was a young woman who had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and had been given three months to live. So as she was getting her things "in order," she contacted one of her pastors and had him come to her house to discuss certain aspects of her final wishes. She told him which songs she wanted sung at the service, what scriptures she would like read, and what outfit in which she wanted to be buried.
Everything was in order and the pastor was preparing to leave when the young woman suddenly remembered something very important to her. "There's one more thing," she said excitedly.
"What's that?" came the pastor's reply.
"This is very important," the young woman continued. "I want to be buried with a fork in my right hand."
The pastor stood looking at the young woman, not knowing quite what to say.
"That surprises you, doesn't it?" the young woman asked.
"Well, to be honest, I'm puzzled by the request," said the pastor.
The young woman explained. "My grandmother once told me this story, and from there on out, I have always done so. I have also, always tried to pass along its message to those I love and those who are in need of encouragement. In all my years of attending church socials and potluck dinners, I always remember that when the dishes of the main course were being cleared, someone would inevitably lean over and say, 'Keep your fork.' It was my favorite part because I knew that something better was coming like velvety chocolate cake or deep-dish apple pie. Something wonderful, and with substance!' So, I just want people to see me there in that casket with a fork in my hand and I want them to wonder, 'What's with the fork?' Then I want you to tell them: 'Keep your fork.... the best is yet to come.'"
The pastor's eyes welled up with tears of joy as he hugged the young woman good-bye. He knew this would be one of the last times he would see her before her death. But he also knew that the young woman had a better grasp of heaven than he did.
She had a better grasp of what heaven would be like than many people twice her age, with twice as much experience and knowledge. She KNEW that something better was coming.
At the funeral people were walking by the young woman's casket and they saw the pretty dress she was wearing and the fork placed in her right hand. Over and over, the pastor heard the question "What's with the fork?" And over and over he smiled.
During his message, the pastor told the people of the conversation he had with the young woman shortly before she died. He also told them about the fork and about what it symbolized to her.
The pastor told the people how he could not stop thinking about the fork and told them that they probably would not be able to stop thinking about it either.
He was right.
So the next time you reach down for your fork, let it remind you ever so gently, that the best is yet to come.
Friends are a very rare jewel, indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed. They lend an ear, they share a word of praise, and they always want to open their hearts to us.
Show your friends how much you care. Remember to always be there for them, even when you need them more. For you never know when it may be their time to "Keep your fork."
Cherish the time you have, and the memories you share. Being friends with someone is not an opportunity but a sweet responsibility.
Send this to everyone you consider a FRIEND even if it means sending back to the person who sent it to you.

Personal note - thanks, Momma! I've got my fork ready!
And keep your fork...

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posted by Marsha @ 9/18/2007 04:30:00 AM   0 comments
Thursday, September 13
Wordless Wednesday - Better LATE than Never!!
Very Late Wordless Wednesday!!

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posted by Marsha @ 9/13/2007 09:56:00 PM   0 comments
Thursday, August 23
Does "LIFE" really have a Silver Lining?
My granddaughter Ansley was diagnosed on Monday with pneumonia. That was after paramedics, ambulance workers, and hospital ER personnel poked and prodded for the better part of the day on her little 15 month old body and emotionally on her 25 year old pregnant Mommy. I didn't think we could have a worse day - until I experienced first hand the run-around with Ansley and Mommy today.

Mommy called early to ask about sending Ansley to MDO but had reservations because the 'labored breathing' had not really subsided. While Mommy talked on the phone to me, I made plans to go sit with Ansley as Mommy slept - very rough night for them both. Just as I walked out the door the phone rang - Mommy was headed to 'doc-in-a-box' because Ansley had worsened. I headed to the same location and was greeted by rude receptionist-type personnel who, three times when asked, replied "They left." She seemed annoyed at best that I'd even think to use her time asking where my daughter had taken my grand baby.

Two and a half hours later, searching two local hospitals and Mommy's physical address, I returned home to discover a message from my daughter that she and the baby had been 'sent' to the next small city's LARGER "better equipped" medical facility because pediatrics could tend to the baby's needs more efficiently and quicker. This is what military intervention had recommended via the doc-in-a-box facility. That was the first BIG lie told to my daughter.

I arrived at the hospital at 11-ish a.m. "They" were sending someone immediately to diagnose etc. and so forth. BIG LIE #2 (An RT did come every four hours or so to administer breathing treatments to Ansley - THE only consistent professional ALL day long.) My grand baby labored for hours with her breathing - she was scared of the seemingly unconcerned staff and terrified that she could not breathe. Her little face told the whole story - petrified sunken eyes, red tinged feverish cheeks, and uncontrollable twitches (at times) of fear and sobbing.

My wearied worried daughter, although 7 months heavy with a new little life growing inside, cuddled and comforted Ansley as best as she could. Her little wiser yet still youthful face told the same sort of story only from an adult "Mommy" viewpoint - dark circled sleepless eyes slightly reddened from pushing back the tears trying to be stoic, intermittent Braxton-Hicks contractions...a reaction, I believe, from sleep and nourishment deprivation (unable to rest for fear that something will happen to Ansley and "no food or drink permitted in the ER" .). ER personnel promised "to see what they could do" at 1:30 about getting Mommy something to eat - BIG LIE #3 - I broke the rule at 3 o'clock because Mommy hadn't had anything since sending Big Sister to school at 6:30 a.m..We gave anything Ansley wanted from our purses just to get her some kind of sustenance - she tried to eat fruit bars, Nerds, peanut butter from crackers and water. My two actually three "babies" were being mistreated by professionals who had promised to CARE for them!!

Gratefully, Mommy has a beautiful MiL who retrieved Big Sister from school and joined us at the hospital. That was at 4:30 p.m. Since 10:30 a.m. Mommy and Ansley had inhabited ER #22 triage 'closet' - waiting area at the point I arrived at 11-ish was COMPLETELY vacant; when Big Sis and MiL got there the same area was overflowing with all sorts of ailments. Ansley still had not seen a physician.

After a brief visit with Mommy and Ansley, I took Big Sis to my house (I needed an extra change of clothing for tomorrow) to see Granddaddy. Then we headed to her home where Big Sis would feel more comfortable and be ready for the school day tomorrow after a good night of sleep. (Big Sis's wish) At 9 o'clock a physician was on his way to check things out and admit Ansley. BIG LIE # 4. I requested that Mommy call me with room info as soon as that was available. Big Sis finally drifted off into a fitful 'sleep' - but not before expressing her 'Big Sister 5 year old fears' for Ansley and Mommy as well as for Daddy - he's out of the country with the military doing what he does best for the rest of us in the USA. Tearfully she said her little heart is "'broken" (her word for her feelings) because she could not do anything to help - "I'm too little." Good opportunity for object lesson about GOD's love and care for us AND the POWER of prayer. I know Daddy's heart is "broken" as well for his adoring pregnant wife, his temporarily 'guilt-ridden' oldest daughter, and for his sweet yet very sick baby....8,000+ miles around the world having to rely on professional personnel who have yet to put their ducks in a row....wishing he was the one HERE pushing to get comfort and relief for his young and growing family...Please GOD ALMIGHTY grant him peace perfect peace throughout this ordeal.

Mommy returned the promised phone call - ER #22 triage closet would be their room. Seems that Someone dropped the ball at 11-ish that morning and forgot to tell Anyone that little Ansley was struggling so that No One would be able admit Ansley because Everyone had completely filled the pediatric unit/floor. Mommy had tried to get assistance all day long....I had asked question after question to get the process moving to get relief for my Babies....MiL made phone call after phone call to find that elusive Someone or aid for Mommy and Grand baby... And now there's "no room in the inn" - so what about another floor? Did Everyone get all those spaces, too?

For those of you who know me, I usually see the silver lined clouds when the 'sparkle' is not yet evident. This post is a very raw self-examination of my emotions. I cannot seem to find the Silver Lined Cloud tonight. I am "broken" - not just my heart...my feelings, my thoughts, my actions, and as of right now my words. I am thankful that Big Sis fitfully tosses and turns in the bed so she does not experience my doubtful disposition. I guess, in a simple way, that can be the beginning of the SILVER LINING HUNT.

I ask for prayers on Ansley's and Hayley's behalves. I DO believe that Phil 4:9 holds a promise and blessing for me - in HIS time....maybe tomorrow.

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posted by Marsha @ 8/23/2007 02:13:00 AM   1 comments
Thursday, August 16
Photo Hunters: Twosies-twosies
"The animals, they went in,
They went in by twosies-twosies;
The animals, they went in,
They went in by twosies-twosies-
El-e-phants and -- kangaroosies-roosies
Children of the LORD"
I gave my Baby Ruth a Noah's Ark set to play with this week. I believe I'm seeing double - two of everything including Baby Ruth!!!



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posted by Marsha @ 8/16/2007 11:04:00 PM   21 comments
Wednesday, August 15
One HOT ZOO Trip





















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posted by Marsha @ 8/15/2007 12:53:00 AM   1 comments
Friday, August 10
Ducks in a row - NOT!!!
I had a little trouble getting my ducks in a row this week. I spent five hours in the country garden....

Such CONFUSION....

Finally got'em in a circular group!


But I had better luck with my vegies...



They kinda resembled ducks, I thought!





The end result was beautiful - and YUMMY!!











posted by Marsha @ 8/10/2007 06:55:00 AM   6 comments
Tuesday, August 7
Wordless Wednesday - Gardening can be tough on a 5-year-old!!










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posted by Marsha @ 8/07/2007 10:19:00 PM   0 comments








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