Merry Christmas! xoxo

Merry Christmas, friends!
This song is my gift to you! (Thanks, Travis Cottrell!)

Much love,
Angie xoxo

Cover to Cover... Rejoice...Rejoice!

It's early Saturday morning and we have 3 people all wanting to use this laptop at the same time, so I decided I better sneak on here to do my Cover to Cover wrap up while everyone is sleeping! This week's readings were great. I say that every week! Thank you, Bev for hosting this!!!!

First of all...

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Amen... that could be the end of this post. That's why I can honestly say that if I could only have one book all I would need is my Bible. I'd be okay anywhere. I am SO grateful God planted me where I am free to have access to His Word.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-7)

I love when He repeats things in His Word. I guess He wants us to Rejoice! His peace will guard my heart and mind.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Phil 4:8-9)

Whenever I am in a funk, or am down or negative, I hope these verses come to mind in the coming year. I have learned that sometimes I can control what comes out of my mouth (with the help of the Holy Spirit), but it's my thought life that needs improvement! I hope I am putting into practice all I am learning. I want His Word to change me!

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. (1 Timothy 6:6-7)

We know it... But do we know it? When I get tempted to get more "stuff" (especially during the holidays)?? He is all I need to be content... He's all I need! We can't take it with us. It's one of those sayings I've heard, but didn't know it was biblical. I have known a lot of wealthy people who do not know the real meaning of contentment. I Pray I remember this if there is a time when I lose it all.

I'm SO Blessed by His Word, especially today!
Love,
Angie xoxo


Merry CHRISTmas! You have all blessed me this year and I am SO grateful God didn't make a mistake by introducing me to everyone here on this blog. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being an inspiration and for always pointing me to Jesus!

Angie's 2008 Highlights

Here are just a few of the highlights of this year!
Love to all of you,
Angie xoxo

A Great song!

I. LOVE. THIS. SONG.

I listened to it over and over and over again today in my car. It's called Light of the Stable by Selah. It's so easy to sing with ...and I can pretend I'm one of them. It's on their Christmas c.d. I highly recommend you get yourself a copy!


Hail, hail to the newborn King
Let our voices sing Him our praises
Hail, hail to the guiding Light
That brought us tonight to our Savior

Halle, hallelujah
Halle, hallelujah
Halle, hallelujah
Halle, hallelujah

Come now, let it shine so bright
To the knowing Light of the stable
Kneel close to the Child so dear
Cast aside your fear and be thankful

Hail, hail to the newborn King
Let our voices sing Him our praises
Hail, hail to the guiding Light
That brought us tonight to our Savior

Hail, hail to the newborn King
Let our voices sing Him our praises
Hail, hail to the guiding Light
That brought us tonight to our Savior

Love,
Angie xoxo

Cover to Cover...perfect unity

This has been a busy week around here. We had four Christmas parties the last four nights. It's a lot of fun getting together with friends and family but I have to admit it's a bit exhausting. I am one who needs my sleep or I get a little cranky. I mean very cranky! When I am tired I tend to say things I regret later and overreact to things that don't normally bother me. I am not always the easiest person to live with, especially if I am on overload. If I can offer any advice these next couple of weeks, I suggest you get your rest and keep your focus on the real meaning of Christmas, Jesus! It was no accident, as I sit here preparing for this week's cover to cover, that I came across these verses in Ephesians and Colossians.

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:2-3)

"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold... Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. ...Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Ephesians 4:26-32)

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. (Colossians 3:12-14)

I'm SO grateful for another chance...



Much Love,
Angie xoxo

Trusting God

Please pray for all the people in Michigan who are concerned about their jobs ...and don't know Jesus.



Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." (Deuteronomy 31:6)

Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you. (Psalm 9:10)

When I am afraid, I will trust in you. (Psalm 56:3)

I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." (Psalm 91:2)

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; (Proverbs 3:5)

If I lost everything in the world and just had His Word I know I would be fine. Just fine. So would you! Our God can be trusted. I'm praying for the lost tonight who don't have God in their life and are worried about their future.

In His Unfailing Love,
Angie xoxo

Christmas fun...

My friend, Kristen tagged me awhile ago and since I have a minute, I think I will try to answer these fun Christmas questions. Thanks, Kristen!

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?
I only like Egg Nog while we are decorating the tree. That along with my favorite Oreo cookies covered in white chocolate. It's a family tradition. Normally I love Hot Chocolate better...especially Peppermint Hot Chocolate at this time of year.

2.Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?
He didn't wrap the big things. Now he does and he separates them and puts them on a chair with the person's stocking.

3. Colored lights on house/tree or white?
White all the way with me. My husband and I have gone back and forth on this one and I think he's finally coming my way. He usually likes colored or all blue lights and he likes a white tree. I like a traditional green tree. We've started to use an artificial one these past few years. I know, that's probably against the rules.

4. Do you hang mistletoe?
No... but I do wear Rosy Mistletoe-sies toenail polish. Does that count?

5.When do you put your decorations up?
I don't have any set time. I would like to put them up the day after Thanksgiving, but my daughter and I go shopping because we love chaos. So, it's usually the following weekend.

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)?
It has been our Crabmeat Appetizers. Ask me if you want the recipe.

7. Favorite holiday memory as a child?
Cutting down our Christmas tree. I have an old video to remember. I wish I could post it here. It would have made "Funniest Home Videos" for sure! This is an adult memory... My sister knew I wasn't into "country" decorations when they were "in" and she gave me a (tacky) plaque that said, "Beary Christmas". It has been passed back and forth from family members for years! I wanted to put in her casket when she passed away, but somehow couldn't do it. Now I treasure it!

8.When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
I have no idea. I don't remember!

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
Yes, and ironically it is ALWAYS pajamas!

10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?
I love all of the ornaments from memories we've made and especially the ones the kids made.

11. Snow. Love it or dread it?
Love the first snow. It really is beautiful. I start dreading it soon after Christmas. I wish I were a snow bird and fly south for the Winter. I need sunlight!

12. Can you ice skate?
Since you asked... I am pretty good. Don't ask me to show off or I'll hurt myself! I will never forget when we lived on a lake and my dad made us the BEST skating rinks ever! You'd be jealous if you saw them. SO much fun!

13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
My favorite gifts were when my kids were in high school in a media class. They made a video for us with pictures, video clips and they talked and told us how much they loved us. They gave it to their dad and me and I've never cried so much in my life!

14. What is the most important thing about the holidays to you?
Keeping our focus on Jesus and the real meaning! Going to church, being with family and of course sharing a meal together!

15. What is your favorite holiday dessert?
I love Peanut Butter Buckeyes. I need to make some soon!

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Going to church together on Christmas Eve and coming back to my house for Cabbage Rolls. Don't tell my mom, but I don't love them, I just love the tradition and the smell in the house.

17. What tops your Christmas tree?
An angel.

18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving?
I love to give presents but I have an insecurity problem with wanting to find the perfect gift. I stress out too much. I'd lie if I didn't tell you I also like to receive gifts. Oh, this is a good time to tell the whole world that I really don't like the "white elephant" game. I hate to hurt the person's feelings if I don't want their gift. It's all about stealing someone's gift if you are the last to choose. I hate trying to pretend I like something when it is just plain weird! Sometimes I wonder if people buy the gifts for shock value. "Let's see how excited she gets over this Pet Rock!" Not really. Most are very nice gifts. I just don't like the whole stealing thing. I'd like it better if we choose, keep and say, "Thank You"!

19. What is your favorite Christmas song?
Too hard to choose. I love "The Gift" by Garth Brooks. I also love "The Lord's Prayer" by Johnny Mathis. It was the first Christmas album I ever owned. I also love "Silent Night". I don't know. I love all of them. Never heard one I didn't like! Wait... that's not true... I don't like The Hippo Song.

20. Candy Canes. Yum or Yuck?
Yum! I like to have one every year just for old time's sake.

21. What do you want for Christmas?
I want to give money to someone whose children believe in Santa, yet their parents can't afford to buy them anything.

22. Do you attend an annual Christmas party?
Yes, we have several annual parties. We are so blessed! I feel badly for people who don't have any to look forward to. By the last one, I admit I am ready to be done with them. Our New Year's are often very quiet.

23. Do you dress up for Christmas Eve or wear PJ's?
Hmmm... I try to look nice for the Christmas Eve service, then come home and get comfy!

24. Do you own a Santa hat?
Nope.

25. Who do you normally spend Christmas with?
Christmas Eve with my family. Christmas Day we spend with my husband's family every other year. This is a good time to tell you that I STILL don't like to share Christmas Day with my kids' dad. I don't like when they leave after we open gifts. It's still hard after all of these years. I get this uncomfortable feeling in my stomach and I just don't like it.

What song do you want to add to the end of this post?





"Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
(2 Corinthians 9:6-7)

Now I get to tag 5 people...
I don't want to stress anyone out, so do it if you have time!
Love you all,
Angie xoxo

2008 Tree

I love a tree with white lights!
I love how He is light in a dark world!




Praying for Peace...
Love,
Angie xoxo

Brace yourself

It must be the weather. Today is my day off and I was planning to get a lot of my Christmas shopping done and it is raining here in Michigan. It's raining! Not snowing. Raining. Since I am procrastinating I decided to jot down a little post. It has been on my mind for awhile. Actually for years. I should have added it to my 100 Things About Me post. If you don't mind, I'd like to get it off my chest.

I cannot stand when people write "Xmas". It just bothers me. Is life getting so busy that we don't have time to write out the whole word? Do we really need to abbreviate it? I finally decided to look up the meaning of the whole "X" thing. Click here if you are curious. It is quite interesting. Even after reading the definition, I must tell you it still bothers me! From now on, I think I may just start writing "Tmas", since the "T' looks more like the cross. I am not singling one person out who recently sent me an e-mail. I am talking about everyone. I've seen it everywhere. Maybe it's just me.

Changing the subject...
It seems every day I learn about more and more people losing their jobs, losing their homes, losing their insurance, having health concerns, struggling in their marriages, worrying about their kids, dealing with elderly parents, feelings of rejection, loneliness and other situations that are just plain hard. Sometimes I have to just stop in my tracks. I was talking with one of my colleagues yesterday about how much more difficult it is to talk with our patients these days. So many are hurting and don't want to talk about it. We used to be able to have easier conversations. People are concerned. They come in the chair with an attitude. We have no idea what is troubling them. When someone is nasty, I decided yesterday to just pray for them. They must be struggling. I just want to look them straight in the eye and tell them that everything will be okay if they can just grasp the love of Jesus. They will be okay and can breath easier if they just know Him. I'd give anything if it were okay to have them listen to this song on my iPod while I am cleaning their teeth. I would want them to listen to this song to the end...



If you don't know it today, He loves you so!
I better go put on my rain boots and work on my list!
Angie xoxo

Cover to Cover... By faith...Hope does not disappoint.

I LOVE the book of Romans. If any of you have never read the Bible, I would suggest you look up Romans and read it soon. My favorite verses were again difficult to choose this week in our cover to cover readings.

Did you know you get to Heaven by faith and not by works?
This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. (Romans 3:22-24)

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. (Romans 5:1-5)

I will never forget the time I was separated from my husband and my nephew, Alex called and recited this verse... "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28) I had no idea what His purpose was back then. I have such a better understanding today. God uses every difficulty to transform me to make me more like Jesus.

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. (Romans 8:37)

Thank you for your prayers regarding my last post. Today I had coffee with my new friend and God showed up. I asked Him to use me and I could feel His presence. I was once again grateful for how far He has brought me through the years and I never thought I would be thanking Him for the sufferings around Christmas back in 1993. I'm grateful I was desperate for Him. He has a plan, friends and I know it in the depths of my soul. All we need to do is trust Him with our lives and in those difficult seasons. We are more than conquerors. More.



By faith...
Angie xoxo

Thankful Thursday... He's on her side

God is taking me out of my comfort zone this weekend by asking me to talk with a new friend who needs nothing short of holding her hand and pointing her to Jesus. I pray I can be gentle and give her encouragement to make it through the most traumatic time of her life. I want her to know that hope can ONLY be found in Jesus Christ. It is critical that I have the right words to share. Will you please pray for me... and for my new friend? It's so like God to have me talk with her around the same time of year that I heard words from my ex-husband that no woman wants to hear.



Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Love,
Angie xoxo

p.s. I'm SO honored He would ask...

She runs like a...

I wish I had something profound to write about this video. All I can say is it made me crack up!! I needed a good laugh. You may not think it's funny, but I've watched it SO many times I can't even count! It reminded me of the time my softball coach told my mother I would be such a better player if I didn't run like a... GIRL! It bothered me at the time, but I think I'm finally okay with it! Um... Would it be better if I ran like a guy? Hmmm... I wonder why no one wants to run with me??



Maybe I should stick with something else...?
Have a good night!
Angie xoxo

Cover to Cover...following Aruba

THANKSGIVING 2008


Early this morning we arrived home from Aruba where our family spent Thanksgiving. We were grateful for our time together. We heard it had rained for a week solid before we got there. God blessed us with beautiful sunshine for our entire vacation! We came home to Winter Wonderland! We listened to Christmas music all the way home from the airport!

Honestly, I read some of the readings I had downloaded from our Cover to Cover from my iPod. Note to self: Don't ever leave home without your Bible!

I had a lot of time to think (and listen to my music) while sitting on a chair looking at this...


Some of the verses that stood out were as follows...

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

We all know these verses well. They are read at weddings and funerals. I was asked to read them at my sister's funeral. A pastor once asked us to replace the word, "love" with our name. Wouldn't it be great if these words were true of us?

Angie is patient.
Angie is kind.
Angie does not envy.
Angie does not boast.
Angie is not proud.
Angie is not rude.
Angie is not self-seeking.
Angie is not easily angered.
Angie does not keep record of wrongs.
Angie does not delight in evil, but rejoices with truth.
Angie always protects.
Angie always trusts.
Angie always hopes.
Angie always perseveres.
Angie never fails.

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. (1 Cor 13:13)

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)


He is the best friend we could ever need...
With His Love,
Angie xoxo


(Our Slideshow)

Cover to Cover...giving thanks

I'm still loving our cover to cover readings of the Bible. The most difficult part this week was deciding which verses to add to this post! Wherever you are on Thursday I hope you take time to Thank God for all of your blessings. Remember, you have a friend in Michigan who is thankful for you!

Thank you for...loving me!
The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Gal 5:14)

Thank you for...carrying my burdens and for your gentleness!
Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (Gal 6:1-2)

Thank you for...your encouragement and for always building me up!
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
(1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Thank you for...your kindness!
Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. (1 Thessalonians 5:15)

Thank you for... being such good roll models and for praying for me!
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

I pray this for all of us...
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (Gal 6:9-10)

Happy Thanksgiving to all of my family and friends! I wish we could enjoy a meal together! It would be sooooooooooooo good!
Love you,
Angie xoxo

The way I love you

Not really sure why I have the urge to tell the whole world, but I have had the worse case of PMS today. I need more of the Holy Spirit.
Please More Spirit...
" But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control..." (Gal 5:22-23)



I heard this song at yoga tonight and felt it was God singing to me...

"You don't know what it's like, baby
You don't know what it's like
To love somebody, to love somebody
The way I love you."

I don't think any of us can really comprehend how much He loves us. I needed to hear that tonight. I know there are a lot of hurting people who just may need to hear it, too!

I feel a lot better...
Love,
Angie xoxo

My Pecan Pie and a song

A very dear friend of mine sent me some special pecans yesterday and it was such a treat!! I had told her in passing that I am considered the "pie lady" in my family and am always asked to bring the pecan pie to our holiday dinners! She remembered! Some people are SO thoughtful!
Thank you so much! xoxo
I thought I would share my recipe today! As you can see, it's simple!

Pecan Pie

9" unbaked pie crust

Filling:
4 eggs beaten
1 cup sugar
1 cup dark corn syrup
1 tablespoon flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons butter, melted
1 cup (or more) pecans
2 teaspoons vanilla

Preheat oven 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients and pour in shell. Bake 55-65 minutes. (I had a note to cook it less, because I always seem to burn it.)



For some reason, I decided to add this song to my post. It has always been a favorite and reminds me to cherish the moments with my kids and family. Time passes too quickly! I miss the good old days. If you need the reminder today, listen very carefully... always make time for the people you love!



Love,
Angie xoxo

Cover to Cover... Proof~Perseverance~Powerful Tongue

What lingers from our readings this week? I could tell you all about doubting Thomas. Well, after reading again, I better since too often I am just like him.

"...But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it." A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." (John 20:25-27) Then he goes on to say in verse 29... "Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

If I'm ever in a tough spot, I want to remember these next verses. I need to read them S-L-O-W-L-Y every time I face a difficult situation!

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. (James 1:2-6)


These next verses about taming the tongue are the story of my life. So many times I have hurt people with my words. Probably more often than I am aware. I tend to speak before I think and blurt things out, only to later regret what I have said to someone. I know how important my words are and realize they can either hurt someone or bless them. It's weird how I remember something a loved one told me nearly 30 years ago and the thought still makes my heart sink. On another note, I wrestle with tongues all day long at work. I have to be very careful. (In case you didn't know, I am a dental hygienist.) A strong tongue can make it almost impossible to take xrays and can cause a severe gag reflex. If I can get my patients to relax their tongue, it makes life a whole lot easier! The tongue is very powerful. I can only tame my tongue with the help of the Holy Spirit.

When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. (James 3:3-9)


If I've hurt you by anything I've said in the past, I want to apologize. If you need to hear some encouraging words, please go to Bev's blog and you will be blessed beyond measure! Have a great week!
Love,
Angie xoxo

p.s. By the way... it's never too late... :)

Best of the Best... Lincoln

I am very proud to be the wife of the Best of the Best Veterinarian in our area for 2008. Someone from the local paper came in to my husband's office today to tell him the news. I am speechless (well sort of, hence this blog post) knowing it was totally God working through him since he opened his doors last February. It's been almost a year since his small group wrote Scripture verses on the wall before the final paint was applied. He was surprised to learn of this amazing honor. God deserves the Glory today and always!

I wanted to share this with you because God is worthy of Praise. He is blogworthy of Praise!

Congratulations, Lincoln!



Thank you for celebrating with us tonight!
Love,
Angie xoxo

Thankful Thursdsay... a hero.

Tonight I am on my knees thanking God for an answered prayer. I am also thankful for someone I know who was obedient to God in a huge way this week. I know his decision glorified God. Some need the approval of man, while others only need the approval of God. I am honored to have a friend who chose God. He is humble and would never want credit. Just for tonight, he is my hero... and so is his wife!

I experienced a miracle and don't take it lightly!


Shaking my head,
Angie xoxo

Hallelujah! Amen.

We praise Thee, O God!
For the Son of Thy love,
For Jesus Who died,
And is now gone above.

Hallelujah! Thine the glory.
Hallelujah! Amen.
Hallelujah! Thine the glory.
Revive us again.

We praise Thee, O God!
For Thy Spirit of light,
Who hath shown us our Savior,
And scattered our night.

All glory and praise
To the Lamb that was slain,
Who hath borne all our sins,
And hath cleansed every stain.

All glory and praise
To the God of all grace,
Who hast brought us, and sought us,
And guided our ways.

Revive us again;
Fill each heart with Thy love;
May each soul be rekindled
With fire from above.

Hope you all are having a wonderful Tuesday! I don't know about you, but this makes me want to get a lot accomplished today!
Ready... Set... Go!
Love,
Angie xoxo

Cover to Cover...not just a story

While on my 12 hour drive to see my family this week I listened to a book on c.d. It made the time pass quickly. I listened to a story very unlike THE story I read in God's Word this week in our cover to cover reading of the Bible. Although it was very entertaining at first, it bothered me to hear the voices of someone who portrayed God, Jesus and The Holy Spirit. I finally had to turn it off! If I were being completely honest, I would tell you for a little while it made me question God's Word. I wondered if it was also just a story. Satan was messing with me. Then God immediately convicted me, saying He couldn't believe I could let ONE book on tape allow me to question what I've become SO passionate about for the past several years!

This weeks readings were intense. You can probably imagine how difficult it was to read of Jesus' crucifixion. We all know how it went, but this time it was different. I guess reading the Bible chronologically makes it that much more meaningful to me.

Mark 14:35-36
Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him. "Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will."

Lord, I cannot imagine where I would be today if Jesus had not trusted His father in Heaven. Thank you for loving us that much. You knew what He would have to endure and you did it anyway! I'm thankful for the movie, "The Passion" so I can picture clearly what it was like for Him. I've heard it was a lot worse.

John 19: 26
When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son,"

Lord, I cannot imagine having to watch my son or daughter go through that kind of torture...for me and all of mankind. This is not just a story someone wrote to entertain me or help time pass quickly on the way somewhere. I look forward to the day when I will hear Your voice for myself and look into Your eyes face to face. Your Word is all I need!

I Pray for my friends and loved-ones who are tempted to not believe, especially when life gets hard.
In Christ Alone,
Angie xoxo

Top 10 things I'm Thankful for this Thursday...

In no particular order... :)

10). I'm thankful that both of my kids made it a priority to vote this week.
9). I'm thankful that today while driving to North Carolina (to visit my family), the weather couldn't have been more perfect!
8). I'm thankful for books on c.d. I am listening to The Shack. I'm also thankful for my iPod.
7). I'm thankful for a nice hotel room with clean, soft sheets (and wireless internet) to get a good night's sleep for the rest of the drive tomorrow.
6). I'm thankful for technology. One day this week I talked with a friend on the phone in Houston, Texas. That evening I was chatting on the computer with a friend in England, while chatting with a friend in South Carolina, while chatting with my sister-in-law in Wisconsin, while chatting with my daughter in New York... all at the same time!!! Our world is so small.
5). I'm thankful that God convicted me for not chatting with my husband who lives in the same house (because of the above chats).
4). I'm thankful that I actually cooked 3 meals this week. (Chicken Noodle Soup, Stuffed Green Peppers and Enchilada Casserole).
3). I'm thankful for gas prices being the lowest I've seen in months ($2.18/gal)!
2). I'm thankful that my husband just called to tell me I am his best friend!
1). I'm thankful that at our church service last night, our pastor reminded us of these verses while we were praying about the election...


Have you never heard?
Have you never understood?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
the Creator of all the earth.
He never grows weak or weary.
No one can measure the depths of his understanding.
...But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength....
(Isaiah 40:28-31)



Living a life of gratefulness changes everything!
Have a great weekend!
Love,
Angie xoxo

Sweet peace

At the end of the day, I am praying for PEACE in this country...
I am grateful to live where we are ALL free to cast our votes!
Let's all play nice...



But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:26-27)

Let's keep looking to Jesus for our peace!
In His Love,
Angie xoxo

Cover to Cover... My desperate prayer

I am enjoying our cover to cover readings more than I thought possible. I have never read the Bible this way and to say I am blessed is an under statement! There were so many familiar verses this week, so it was difficult to choose what lingers. I'm loving the gospels.

If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." (Matthew 21:22)

Recently I found an old prayer. It was in a drawer I had saved since 1975. I begged God to save me a place on the JV basketball team. His hand was on my life back then. I must have believed I could only make the team with God's help. I did end up making it and I hope I gave Him the credit!

One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?"

"The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:28-31)

This sounds so simple. It really is simple, yet I make it complicated.

"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean. (Matt 23:25-26)

These verses convicted me big-time. They made me think about how much God cares about my heart! If my heart is like His, the world will see the truth and they'll want Him too! I keep reading it over and over again. I am still digesting those verses. I don't ever want to be called a hypocrite!

"As for the person who hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it. There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day. (John12:47-48)

Honestly, this is one area I struggle with in my life. I am so relieved that I am not the judge! I am NOT the judge!

I'm praying for our country this week and that we all make wise decisions on Tuesday! God won't be surprised by the outcome! I pray His will is done!
Much love,
Angie xoxo

P.S.

p.s. I'm also Thankful that last week this time I was watching Nicol Sponberg sing this song...



I'm Blessed!

Thankful Thursday... find your dream

This Thursday I am Thankful for... my job!
After 24 years, I can honestly say I still love being a dental hygienist. Each patient God brings to my chair is unique and special. I love the one on one relationships I have with them.

Kids don't always know what they want to do with their lives and sometimes they need direction and guidance. I wish I were like this nun, full of wisdom. I know in my heart that it's God who reveals our true passions. I'm praying today for anyone who is searching and I pray they find someone in their lives who can mentor them during these confusing times.



I hope you are Thankful for something huge this Thursday!
I better get back to work!
Love,
Angie xoxo

I doubt I'll be able to speak

God took me (and my husband, Bless his heart) out of my comfort zone this past Sunday. I had met a girl and her two precious daughters at the Selah concert last week. She told me that if I love Praise and Worship music I should go to her church. Well, I woke up Sunday morning and decided to go down to Detroit.

We Praised and Worshiped for about an hour and a half. We sang, danced and shouted to the Lord. In the past I had heard one of my favorite Bible teachers talk about Praising God for answered prayer. She had talked about the way people can yell and cheer for a sports team, yet when it comes time to Praise God, we are quiet and ever- so proper. She encouraged us to give Him some real Praise! Well, let me just tell you that the members of the church we visited knew how to give Him some Praise! I felt like I was not only at the Superbowl Game, but my team had won... and they were the underdog! The band played, the choir sang and we danced and clapped our hands until they literally hurt.

Then I was convicted by God...

I am WAY more comfortable giving God my Prayer requests than I am Praising Him. Can you believe that? I was waiting anxiously for the message so I could get fed. It was all about me! I am embarrassed to even type this.

The message was unbelievable and I wrote notes like never before. The Pastor talked about our assignments (to turn people's heart toward Christ) and the fact that God, through the Holy Spirit will equip us with the power to make an impact on the world if we spend time with Him and have an intimate relationship with Him first. He also reminded me that my assignment starts in the home, with my husband. He told us to pray for supernatural power to love and serve our spouses.

We felt so welcome in their church! I almost cried when total strangers came up to us to hug us. I'll never forget the boy about 13 years old who stopped me to shake my hand as we walked out of the church. I had a lump in my throat and could hardly speak! God is being magnified in that Church and in those families!

I realized during the 3 hour service that God created us all different and loves us wherever we are. There is no right or wrong way to worship Him. Some feel more comfortable in the quietness and others have to jump up and down. I am thinking I am a bit more reserved and quiet. That's okay. I wonder how it will be when I see Jesus one day? Will I be able to speak at all? I can't imagine not needing Prayer requests anymore... just worshiping Him. I better start living a life of gratitude today!



Thanks for listening!
Love,
Angie xoxo

Cover to Cover... He RUNS

Hey friends!

It's time to share what has been lingering in our readings of the Bible cover to cover chronologically. These weeks are flying by! This is what has been lingering...

"...But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him." (Luke 15:20)

The parable of the lost son touches me deeply. I have personal reasons for liking this verse at this time of my life. I have a lot of friends whose children seem lost and parents would give anything for their kids to "get it" since we love them so much! Time is wasting and it's important to us that our children know God and have a relationship with Him. Kids get pulled in so many different directions these days and can get off track easily. It's our job as parents to plant seeds in our children's lives so they learn to trust God completely and know how He feels about them.

You can read the whole story here.

When his child was far off, first his father saw him which implies that he was looking for him. His father must have been been looking for his son for days. If he saw him from way off, it seems that he may have been looking regularly and for a long time. God has the means to drag us back to him, but he is a gentleman and doesn't want to take us against our will. But he is looking every day and waiting. When the father finally sees him off in the distance, he doesn't wait with folded arms to scorn and punish his son when he finally comes back. He RUNS to his son. The son doesn't deserve this, but the father's love is such that he cannot help but run!

I love how he is a gentleman and waits for us to come back home to Him! He is SO good and loves us more than we can comprehend! That's what has been lingering not only this week, but in this season of my life! I'm praying for our children and loved ones!


Have a great week!
In His Love,
Angie xoxo

Do you know what Selah means?

I have so much to do right now, but can't seem to stay focused. I cannot get last night out of my mind. I saw Selah and Nicol Sponberg perform. I felt as if they were singing just to me. There could have been a million distractions in that room, but none would spoil my time with God through these precious people's music. I know for sure that music fills my soul in a different way than a lot other people. I had such a hard time sitting down and being calm like the rest of the people there. I would have been the distraction if I stood up with my arms high like I wanted! You'll be happy to know I stayed sitting while my heart was about to explode.

In my Stepping Up Bible study this week, Beth Moore talked about the Psalms and the songs. She encouraged us to listen to the words of the songs we sing. Really listen. Last night I listened alright. Wow! When they played the song I posted, I heard it like never before. I am so Blessed! I'll never forget the lessons I learned through my divorce many years ago. They led me to Him! I invite you to listen, pause and reflect with me...



If Selah comes anywhere near your hometown you would be Blessed to see them. Go here for their schedule.
Have a good weekend!
Love,
Angie xoxo

Thankful Thursday...one word

Jesus...







You can have all this world... Give me Jesus...
Amen

With Love,
Angie xoxo

In honor of...

my sister, Victoria Ann (who would be 54 years old this Friday), please make sure you have your mammogram scheduled if you haven't already done so. I just had mine this morning. I was glad to answer the question presented by the nurse with a "Yes"... "Is this just a routine mammogram, Mrs. Baylis"? Praise God!

Also, please keep my mom in your prayers this week, as I'm sure she'll be thinking about her firstborn daughter.

I'm praying for all of you who have been touched by breast cancer in any way...





Much love,
Angie xoxo

***Updated note from my mom on Friday, Oct 24th...

"OH, ANNIE. THAT TRIBUTE TO VIC IS JUST BEAUTIFUL. ISN'T IT REMARKABLE THAT IT SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY THAT SHE WAS BORN. I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE SHE IS GONE. I DON'T KNOW IF YOU EVER HEARD THAT WHEN I CAME OUT OF THE DELIVERY ROOM WITH HER IN MY ARMS, DADDY SAID, "SHE LOOKS LIKE A LOBSTER" I WAS SO UPSET WITH HIM BECAUSE I THOUGHT SHE WAS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BABY THAT I HAD EVER SEEN. BUT SHE WAS KINDA RED......

I CAN'T BELIEVE IT HAS BEEN L0 YEARS...I MISS HER TODAY AS MUCH AS I DID WHEN SHE WENT TO BE WITH GOD. SOMETIMES I GET A LITTLE BIT JEALOUS WHEN I THINK THAT vIC AND YOUR DAD ARE TOGETHER AND


THAT HE SEES HER ALL THE TIME. SHE HAD SUCH A WONDERFUL DISPOSITION, SO LOUD, SO FUNNY AND SO MUCH OF OUR FAMILY. I WOULD JUST LOVE TO HEAR HER PLAYING THE PIANO AND SINGING. LIKE MEGAN SAID ON HER 6 YEAR OLD TRIP. " I NEED MY MOM, I JUST WANT TO SMELL HER. THATS WHAT I WOULD LIKE TO DO TOO. I AM SO FORTUNATE TO HAVE ALL OF YOU, BUT TODAY AND TOMORROW I WILL STILL HAVE TO BE SAD FOR HER. I LOVE YOU ANNIE"

Joy

For some reason this movie (The Bucket List) came up twice today in different conversations, then when I was looking for another video it came up again. I think God wanted me to learn a little bit about Joy...

Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for JOY and be glad all our days. (Psalm 90:14)

For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for JOY at the works of your hands.(Psalm 92:4)

When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought JOY to my soul.(Psalm 94:19)

I hope you are finding the Joy in your life!
Joy in Him.
Love,
Angie xoxo

Cover to Cover...Are you Martha or Mary?

This song by George Winston helps me relax when I am entertaining...

I've heard the story about Martha and Mary many times, but for some reason I never seem to "get it" in the depths of my soul. Hopefully by writing about it here for the whole world to see, I will make a much needed change. For any of you who don't know the story, it goes like this...

At the Home of Martha and Mary

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"

"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:38-42)

You see, I am a lot like Martha. I can almost hear God Himself saying, "Angie, Angie, you are so worried about your house being perfect, preparing the perfect meal and worrying about what others think, that you miss out on so many opportunities to welcome friends in your home. And when you do finally invite them, you are so distracted that you aren't able to fully engage and enjoy your company! These are your friends and family and they love you! I have given you a beautiful home, enough money to buy food to offer them, yet you don't because you are too nervous and get freaked out! Have you forgotten you don't need the approval of man, just me? I want so much more for you. I want you to welcome my people in your home and share my love. If you just relax and rest in me, everything will be fine."

And I can't overlook what we read this week about forgiveness...

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?"
Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. (Matthew 18:21-22)

One more thing... We read in Mark 9:23-24 about Jesus healing the boy with an Evil Spirit.
" 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes."
Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"

We also read Luke chapter 11 where Jesus teaches us to pray the Lord's Prayer.

As I am reading His Word I Pray I do more than tell you how much I enjoyed it. I Pray my life is changed forever...

He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it." (Luke 11:28)

Our Cover to Cover readings with Bev and the girls are life-changing, especially when we choose to obey!
Love,
Angie xoxo

A walk to remember...

I took this picture (of my brother-in-law and nephew) yesterday at the Cider Mill. It made me think about the gift of father/son (or daughter) relationships. Some of my best memories of my father were when we ran an errand together and it was just the two of us in the car. My dad was a quiet man and it seemed that when there was a lot of chaos, he sat quietly in the background. When I called my parents, my dad was always quick to pass the phone off to my mom. I remember giving him a hard time saying, "No, Dad... I want to talk to you!" I could always tell when he was home alone because that was the only time he was actually quite chatty. He'd tell me a long story about a project he was working on or all about his garden. I regret those times when I was in a hurry and didn't have as much patience as I would have liked.

This picture made me feel badly for sons (and daughters) who lose their earthly father at a young age. I know one son in particular who would give anything to hear his father tell him how proud he is of the man he has become. Some guys never get the chance to hear those words. I'm thanking God right now for bringing other men in their lives to tell them the words they long to hear! If you are wishing you could go on just one more walk with a loved one right now, know there is someone in Michigan having cider and donuts, Praying for you and hoping you know how proud He is of you!



I hope you are having a great Saturday!
Much love,
Angie xoxo

Vulnerable Post

Whew... I've needed to do this post for a couple of weeks.

I haven't been able to shake a conversation I had with someone whose belief system is completely the opposite of mine. This guy believes in several gods, not just one God. Money is a god to him and he wasn't afraid to tell me! He explained his belief that we put too much emphasis on relationships...

It seems that on several occasions my faith has been challenged. Tonight at church our pastor had an interview with someone who doesn't believe in God. Does not believe in Heaven. Thinks God is..."make-believe". He brought up some good points! He made me think...

I can think of at least two other conversations I have had lately with people who feel just as strongly about their belief system as I do in mine. I've also heard people say they are freaked out by the way Christians say things like, "Saved" and "Born-again"... words that used to scare me not too long ago. And that Christians are just hypocrites! Tonight's church service troubled me. I have always been comfortable with my faith. I've been confident that the Bible is the truth. Why is this happening? I wish this kind of stuff could just roll off me. I couldn't wait to get in the car and listen to my praise and worship music. Oh, and another thing... I was talking with a friend of mine recently who hasn't had access to any of her worship music for the past couple of months. If I didn't have my music would my faith be watered down and weak? It's a scary thought!

The truth is... I don't know why, but I believe. That's all I can say. I don't need to be convinced. I believe the Bible is 100% truth. I just do! I can't explain it, but my faith cannot be challenged.

Will you please pray for me? I need the Holy Spirit to fill me with some peace.
I hope this post wasn't too authentic! I still love Jesus and need Him more than my next breath!

In His Love,
Angie xoxo

Cover to Cover... in Tribeca with Meghan

Hey, Girlfriends!
It's Monday and I just got back home from New York where I spent the weekend with my daughter at her new apartment in Tribeca. It was absolutely beautiful! I honestly think I could live in New York. We had such a nice time together. We ate at fabulous restaurants and walked so much! My legs are still sore. We ran across the Brooklyn Bridge yesterday, too! She lives so close to Battery Park overlooking the Hudson River. We could see the Statue of Liberty! The best part was spending time with Meghan!

I was also able to see my good friend, Sandy who moved there this past Summer! We had a great time together! We also had brunch with Meghan's friend, Sarah and her mom.

Believe it or not, I did my Cover to Cover readings. I am loving this so much that I just didn't want to miss out this week. But, the only problem is the wrap up! There were so many things I read that made me cringe and get convicted. I loved Matthew chapter 6. A lot of what I read is still lingering... especially the part about not judging others, loving my enemies, turning the other cheek, forgiving so I can be forgiven, praying for those who mistreat me, giving to others, doing unto others as I would have them do to me... and MY MOUTH.

Also...

"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,' when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. (Matthew 6:41-42)

And...

"No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks. (Matthew 6:43-45)

When I think of fruit, I always think of the Fruit of the Spirit... Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Gentleness, Faithfulness and Self-Control.

I loved people watching in New York and thinking about this song...


Have a great week no matter where you are!
In His Love,
Angie xoxo