Country Diary Of A Twenty First Century Lady

Sleuth Detectives~Making Memories With Our Sons

2009-03-14T16:55:00.000-07:00

In our series called "Making Memories With Our Sons", it is important to create opportunities and participate in manly activities as a family. This encourages development of masculine sons with the same fervant support of femininity for daughters. Boys love detective type play and we thought it would be great fun to take our son to a "Sleuth Dinner Show". We want our son to enjoy being a boy and though he loves the lessons learned by Mr. Knightly and Mr. Roger Hamley of Jane Austin's Era, he equally enjoys rolling up his sleeves and digging deeper in other wholesome genre's too. This is part of being a balanced boy and I love supporting anything that makes him all he is to be as a complete man.

In addition, we love his cowboy hats, roughing it in the mountains in his Daniel Boone getup and anything outdoorsy.

The "Art of Play" makes the man

How we direct our boys needs to be well thought out and carefully considered. First and foremost is to teach our sons to love God's word, hiding scripture deep within their hearts and embrace the principles that will bless their lives and future families. One concern I have had regarding the training of ones son, is how many young men learn their academia but miss the important aspect that brings a boy into full manhood. If we look to scripture we see the "David's" and "Solomon's" of the bible were not just sitting with tablets in hand. These were boys who loved God and spent time in the fields learning what real manhood was all about. They were strong, ruddy young men with qualities of balance both internally and externally. Look at your boys, see if they need to get out into the fresh air for some body building, tree climbing and tree felling skills. Mothers, ask yourself if your sons are being developed in equal proportion with their mind, body and spirit?

If sons grow up with only computers, television and couch potato training, they will never understand the world of a well balanced man. They need to get out, work in wholesome masculine building skills and develop creative problem solving abilities. I believe it was the famous Captain Cook who said he learned all he needed to know in leading men in battles by what he played in his own back yard.

This particular video was from a recent trip down South. Our son has been studying logic in his home-education and this game really made it fun for him. As we travel, we want our son to experience what he is reading and have a hands on education. We took a cross country train trip and the practical, experiential knowledge our son gained was invaluable. This particular evening was a pure delight as we played a deductive reasoning "Live Clue Game". For those of you who enjoy board games, this was great fun figuring out "Who done it!".

All the characters came to life and our son was asked to play a cameo role in the entertainment. This was his first acting debut with his new friend Jordan from Texas. These two had a wonderful time together on stage and their gypsy presence enthralled the audience. These two young men threw us off kilter as we tried to figure out the suspects. Samuel and Jordan were the

"Sleuth Detectives!"

Highland Tea-"Making Memories With Our Sons"

2009-03-07T23:35:00.000-08:00

In my ongoing series, "Making Memories With Our Sons", I wanted to include a very important aspect of training these valiant lads. Boys need to become strong, godly, masculine men and yet there is often a missing element in their education. A son’s training needs to include but is not limited to the teaching of godliness, masculinity, outdoor skills, "how to" be protectors, providers and leaders in all aspects of life. These are valuable qualities indeed which can take on many forms to implement. There is one element of education that is often overlooked which is greatly needed for the fully trained young man.

It is that of being a real “Gentleman”

We educators need to help our sons establish manners, deference for women and children first, handling themselves in various settings with grace, decorum, especially in environments which call for excellence. This teaching must include the careful provisions for males by encouraging them to rise up to their calling as men.

Every time I visit my good friends on the coast, we have a special "High Tea" together. I mentioned the importance of sons learning this art, including manners and how to handle themselves on such occasions to my good friend Lady Lydia. While speaking together, the wheels of inspiration took off again. That is God’s gift of our friendship. We have such a creative, collaboration of ideas and our families work very well together which makes it a sheer joy every time we meet.

Our friends the Sherman’s and Humphrey’s decided to hold a Scottish Highland High Tea for our young masters, which our families joined together for a day of hearty, happy celebration. This was a carefully thought out time in which our sons were trained in the art of “Highland Traditions” and the “Men of Old”. Our theme transported us back in time to the hearty men who spent their days up in the Highlands with great physical exertion searching for game and daily labor. They came down exhausted and famished, to a hearty tea which was a heavy meal of meats including many delights that refreshed these brawny men, strengthening their ruddy constitutions.

Our boys were given special names of honor for the occasion and learned about the history of these amazing men. The tea was a delightful feast and we all partook in the bounty.

With Trumphets and Fanfare

~Announcing~

Samuel Duke of S.P., Sir Isaac Earl of J. C., Sir John Paul and Sir Joseph of the Clan of Humphrey

Samuel Duke of S.P. sends a very special "Thank You" to Mrs. Humphrey for your creative inspiration and Mrs. Sherman for your excellence in taste of our Highland High Tea.

Afterwards these boonfellows put on their gear and played their outdoor games!

What a joy and delight to raise sons who can roll up their sleeves, get dirty and also become great gentlemen all in the same day!

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T15:15:00.000-08:00

THE STORY OF VALENTINE'S DAY BEGINS IN THE THIRD CENTURY WITH AN OPPRESSIVE ROMAN EMPEROR AND A HUMBLE CHRISTIAN MARTYR.
THE EMPEROR WAS CLAUDIUS 11. THE CHRISTIAN WAS VALENTINUS.

Claudius had ordered all Romans to worship twelve gods, and he had made it a crime punishable by death to associate with Christians. But Valentinus was dedicated to the ideals of Christ, and not even the threat of death could keep him from practicing his beliefs. Valentine as refused an unattested law attributed to Roman Emperor Claudius II, allegedly ordering that young men remain single. The Emperor supposedly did this to grow his army, believing that married men did not make for good soldiers. Valentine, however, secretly performed marriage ceremonies for young men. Valentinus was caught marrying Christian couples and aiding any Christians who were being persecuted under Emperor Claudius in Rome [when helping them was considered a crime], When Claudius found out about this, he had Valentine arrested and thrown in jail. Valentinus was arrested and imprisoned. Claudius took a liking to this prisoner -- until Valentinus tried to convert the Emperor -- whereupon was condemned to death.

"Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you"

Proverbs 9:8

During the last weeks of Valentinus's life, a remarkable thing happened. Seeing that he was a man of learning, the jailer asked whether his daughter, Julia, might be brought to Valentinus for lessons. She had been blind since birth. Julia was a pretty young girl with a quick mind, Valentinus read stories of Rome's history to her. He taught her arithmetic and told her about God. She saw the world through his eyes, trusted in his wisdom, and found comfort in his quiet strength.

"Valentinus, does God really hear our prayers?" Julia said one day. "Yes, my child, He hears each one, " he replied.
"Do you know what I pray for every morning and every night? I pray that I might see. I want so much to see everything you've told me about!"

"God does what is best for us if we will only believe in Him," Valentinus said. "Oh, Valentinus, I do believe," Julia said intensely. "I do." She knelt and grasped his hand.

They sat quietly together, each praying. Suddenly there was a brilliant light in the prison cell. Radiant, Julia screamed, "Valentinus, I can see! I can see!" "Praise be to God!" Valentinus exclaimed, and he knelt in prayer.

On the eve of his death, Valentinus wrote a last note to Julia, urging her to stay close to God, and he signed it

"From Your Valentine"

His sentence was carried out the next day, February 14, 270 A.D., near a gate that was later named Porta Valentini in his memory. He was buried at what is now the Church of Praxedes in Rome. It is said that Julia herself planted a pink-blossomed almond tree near his grave. Today, the almond tree remains a symbol of abiding love and friendship. On each February 14, St. Valentine's Day, messages of affection, love, and devotion are exchanged around the world.

Happy Valentine's Day!

There are many varying stories of Valentinus and of the original Valentine Story. Remains were found in catacombs bearing the name St. Valentine in the area and time frame referencing this particular individual that I write about.

As Christian's we serve the Lord prayerfully while carefully and wisely investing our lives in others like as confirmed in scripture. Some times we will be greatly blessed while other times we will be heartbroken by insults, mockings or persecution. "With gentleness we are called to correct those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth". "For the sorrow that is according to the will of God produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation, but the sorrow of the world produces death." We must understand, if others are unwilling to listen to God's word, to take heart. There are others like "Julia" who will listen, bringing joy to our hearts, that we may rejoice with throughout eternity.

It should also be noted that scripture makes it clear that we come to God through Christ alone, not by any other, be on heaven or earth nor of one given a name by mortals of "Saint".

Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me~John 14:6

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life~John 3:16

True Love

2009-02-14T14:19:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought what the greatest "love" relationship is?

I am sure you have, since it is Valentines Day. True love will lay its life down and sacrifice for another. True love fulfills their responsibility even when it is hard, "As unto the Lord" and does not run away from it. True love says, "Not my will but thine be done". This is the "greatest, Nobelist and purest form of love". It is the similar type of love your parents sacrificed for you or when soldiers including those in "The Force" of public service, lay their lives down for another... it is physically manifested.

God's love transcends all understanding especially by today's Feminist's. The type of love which gives up career and self fulfillment in order to lay it down for a child entrusted to them or their "own" family is difficult for them to comprehend. It is hard for those who are self absorbed, self serving to understand sacrificial love. They say words like "get a life" or "you should have fulfilled yourself" or "you see, you are just wasting your time being co-dependent and can't let go". How sad that is for those who do not understand the kind of love Jesus sacrificed for us. They would have said the same to Him. For He NEVER lets us go once we are His.

Jesus tells us the story of the lost sheep and how the good Shepard left the ninety-nine to go after just the one. The world would consider this foolishness, co-dependency and dysfunctional. They would say, "you've got enough under your charge, stop being so consumed, controlling and let that sheep have it's own life!". Yet Jesus never did. His analogy of how God the Father interacts with human beings shows us what true love really is. God the Father is consumed with His children both young and old alike. He went after "the one" He loved and was not moved by the prevailing culture or how society views relationships.

If God were being judged by "Today's Modern Society" as the example of a true father, he would be considered extremely controlling, co-dependent and dysfunctional.

This is the error the world makes...They DO NOT understand "Love"

God does not take sin lightly and expects His children of "all ages" to submit to Him as their Father and authority even if they don't like it. He wants them to honor him, obey him no matter what, even if they feel misunderstood, "cloistered in" or their life is not as they hoped. His boundaries are set for our protection as He sees beyond our comprehension. He does not accept excuses for rebellion, slander of His parenting skills or disloyalty in the camp. He does not follow opinion polls pulling His daughters far away from home to ministry, that override Him or usurp His authority no matter how sym "pathetic" they may sound. When things were difficult, He would expect His children to be there, trusting that all things would work together for their good as they learned to love Him and are called according to His purpose as "adopted" children. The Lord would not support His sons or daughters taking matters into their own hands or going back to their former father of the world even if they were unhappy. He would still call them back to Him.

You may say, "but my Mom and dad are NOT God, they have not been all that I hoped".

I will answer, "this is absolutely true" and than I will ask you..." are you all that your parents hoped you to be in the way you honored or obeyed them? Was God taken by surprise in the parents He chose for you? Do you think He knew your father or mother were not going to be perfect, that they would make mistakes and maybe even hurt you? Do you think you have done or will do better? Do you believe you will never make mistakes when you are married, never to hurt your spouse or children...even if it was unintentional or perceived wrong? Will you need forgiveness or God's grace to you by those you love?

Dear one...the Lord says, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God". That means "ALL" including every mother or father on this earth not just yours!

True love understands this. In God's amazing plan, He made provisions even for the imperfect parent to be honored, biblically submitted to by sons and daughters of every age, not just until they turn 18. Until a father's authority is transferred through marriage or a son is appointed by the father these are the Commandments of God. Though the dynamics of their relationship changes, parents are still be honored throughout life.

Are you still "keeping a record of wrongs" from your upbringing? Are you trusting God to work His very best plan for you through the parents He chose to raise you? Have you thought what you have learned and how much you have grown as a result? Have you forgiven?

If not, than God's word says you will not be forgiven.

Where is "True Love" for your father, your mother, your sister or brother? I am NOT just speaking to just youth here but to adults too! I have heard that turmoil in ones life may be traced back to how much we honored our own parents. This is not to say that anything specifically happening in your life right now is a direct result of dishonoring or breaking your parents heart. But prayerfully look back and carefully consider your own relationship with them. Is it "well with you" like God promises to those who keep the 5th Commandment? Or is it only "well" because your parents were gracious enough to forgive you in spite of your behavior?

Have you humbled yourself, sincerely gone back to ask them to forgive you for your part? Are you still keeping secret sin because you are too proud to admit your wrong, a failure or full of fear? Have you thought how this is hindering God's blessings in your life? Being a grown adult or under another authority through marriage is not an excuse to ignore past sin or dishonor your parents no matter how many years have passed.

This Valentine's Day, I encourage you to honestly think about how much you love your family. Not just the ones in your life through marriage but those parents given to raise you including your siblings as a reflective barometer of how much you love God. I want you to ask yourself if you are willing to humble yourself, trusting Jesus to work all things together for your good as you submit to His plan of choosing "your parents" to raise "you" and to be your authority.

How much do your understand what sacrificial love really is? Not the kind that gives unconditionally for a while, maybe even years, than gives up when things don't change. But the "True Love" that remains constant, faithful and loyal no matter what. The kind of love that never fails. I pray you continue to grow in this type of love... to love your family by coming home to God through repentance. If you are not right with your parents or your family, ask them to forgive you. Humble yourself and admit your failings then serve them as unto the Lord under your father direction or if married through your husband's leadership, trusting God made no mistakes in choosing them just for you.

It is amazing how much grace the Lord gives parents to forgive their sons or daughters when they are sincerely broken and reverent. Many times parents already sensed something was wrong and were just waiting for their children to finally grow up and show mature accountability.

Now be thankful! You became the wonderful person you are with all the intricate levels of lessons learned because of your family, chosen just for you!

When you humble yourself before your parents or your family, you will be blessed beyond measure and reconciled with God. His grace will pour out on everything you do. You will see many doors open you thought were closed and the desires of your heart will have chance to finally take root. Then the grace of God pour out to helping you to reconcile all your relationships in a way you never thought possible. You will be crowned with a peace that passes all understanding, radiating and reigning in your heart! Then you will find what "True Love" really means.

Happy Holidays and New Year!

2009-01-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

Be Not Weary

2008-11-20T19:56:00.001-08:00

Sometimes, when I am toil-worn and aweary,
And tired out with working long and well,
And earth is dark, and skies above are dreary,

And heart and soul are all too sick to tell...

These words have come to me like angel fingers
Pressing the spirit's eyelids down in sleep,

'Oh let us not be weary in well doing,
For in due season we shall surely reap.'

Oh, blessed promise! When I seem to hear it,
Whispered by angel voices on the air,
It breathes new life and courage to my spirit,
And gives me strength to suffer and forbear.

And I can wait most patiently for harvest,
And cast my seeds, nor ever faint, nor weep,
If I know surely that my work availeth,
And in God's season, I at last shall reap.

When mind and body were borne down completely,
And I have thought my efforts were all in vain,
These words have come to me so softly, sweetly,
And whispered hope, and urged me on again.

And though my labour seems all unavailing,
And all my striving fruitless, yet the Lord
Doth treasure up each little seed I scatter,
And sometime, sometime, I shall reap the reward.

Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Virtue Through Adversity

2008-11-19T12:35:00.000-08:00

It is easy enough to be pleasant,
When life flows by like a song...

But the man worthwhile is one who will smile,
When everything goes dead wrong.
For the test of the heart is trouble,
And it always comes with the years,
And the smile that is worth the praises of earth
Is the smile that shines through tears.

It is easy enough to be prudent,
When nothing tempts you to stray,
When without or within no voice of sin
Is luring your soul away;
But it's only a negative virtue
Until it is tried by fire,
And the life that is worth the honor on earth
Is the one that resists desire.

By the cynic, the sad, the fallen,
Who had no strength for the strife,
The world's highway is cumbered today;
They make up the sum of life.
But the virtue that conquers passion,
And the sorrow that hides in a smile,
It is these that are worth the homage on earth
For we find them but once in a while.

My dear friend Lady Lydia sent me this poem that her daughther Lillibeth memorized as a young woman. It meant so much to me, that I wanted to share it with you all too. This truly expresses the qualities developed as we go through the trials of life. To somehow rise above them beautifully with God's grace as we humbly take refuge in Him.

Harvest Celebration:"Making Memories With Our Sons"

2008-11-09T11:13:00.000-08:00

What could be more glorious!...

for a boy...

Big

....or small,

than to catapult pumpkins high in the air and watch them splat on the ground!

We mothers think, "ohh..no how many pies could I have made from that?"

These are "The happy ways" our family is celebrating the Fall, Harvest and Thanksgiving Season. Our friends the Feist family invited us to join in the festivities and I wanted to share some ideas for those who want to throw their own celebration.
Our son Samuel was having the time of his life. Look at the face of the big guys here, I think the "little boy" in them was having just as much fun as our son!

One, Two, Three....Look at this homemade catapult... "I hope it holds up!"

Our pumpkin flew pretty far before it landed in the fields close to a barrel. It almost made a hole in one!

In this series I call "Making Memories With Our Sons", gathering friends and family together for a harvest celebration is a wonderful memory for the whole family!

No..."We are the Happy Ones!"

We feel so blessed to have such creatively resourceful friends who are so edifying to be around!

We look forward to God's plan and those friends He has yet for us to meet!

Here are some ideas for an outdoor

"Harvest Celebration"

If your friends or family have horses, hay rides are a wonderful experience. If you don't have a horse than a tractor or truck will do. Put some hay or whatever best to sit on-to give a view-in the back of a wagon, trailer or truck bed...then throw a few blankets in and viola! I should add this works best in the country, slow going to enjoy nature at its finest.

You'll Have A Happy Harvest Ride!

Be sure and look at all the beautiful colors and point out God's handiwork to your children. He shows his designs magnificently this time of year. Let us give Him praise for His enduring faithfulness throughout each season. Remember to sing songs while you take your trail ride. I like "She'll be coming around the mountain" and I love "For the Beauty of the Earth"... which is so glorifying to God when sung A cappella.

Games: There are many memory making games that are simple which our Forefathers and the Pioneers enjoyed~ like three legged races, potato sack races, rope pulls, apple dunking and foot races. This year we did blind folded wheelbarrow races (Samuel was in the barrel:>). It takes fast concentration as the lead man gives the instructions with a blindfolded teammate pushing the wheelbarrow as fast as they can through obstacles like cones and flags. One realizes the importance of clear communication! I could almost do a Titus 2:5 humorous analogy on this...but I will leave that for those with comical imaginations! Our son hung on for dear life criss- crossing over dividing ropes and flags as his Christian sister Katie Feist ran full speed to the end. We laughed and had great joy cheering him on.

Making meaningful memories does not have to cost a great deal of money when you join forces with good friends and neighbors. God has given each of us abilities and blessings. Some are talented at building catapults while others have a wheelbarrel, or a field of pumpkins to share. One mother designed beautiful face paintings of horses and animals on the children while another helped them make bracelets..." masculine for boys and feminine for girls". Some young women helped the children color pictures of leaves for a contest while others served refreshments.

To celebrate this beautiful"Season" the Lord gave us, each household can contribute something needed that will make the day special. I recall a book I read to my son called "Bunny Get Well Soup". Each little forest animal brought in one vegetable to the host and working together created a lovely feast that made their soup taste delicious. By sharing of your bounty with family, friends and neighbors, you too can have a delicious day in the Lord!

Happy Trails To You!

Harvest Home

2008-11-06T20:01:00.000-08:00

"Making Memories With Our Sons"

It's that time of year again!

The leaves turn brilliant colors, radiating the excitment of the season. I love the vibrant crisp energy as everyone rushes around preparing for a lovely long winter. The wood piles are bursting at the seams, the happy voices sipping hot apple cider as friends and families gather to usher in another Harvest Season.

This hand carved "Fall Pheasant" is a tradition we just started this year. My nine year old son and I went exploring on our property for Fall colors bringing a brilliant palate to our centerpiece. We were having ministry guests for dinner and Samuel helped create a wonderfully masculine Harvest display for our table. It was so simple and very uplifting in "real life". We had so much fun finding unique fauna while working together.

Making opportunities with our sons is just as important as with our daughters. My boy was such a blessing as he cut sharp, thorny plants for me and helped carry in our bounty. Working with sons, gives them a tangible appreciation of the Lord's faithfulness throughout the changing seasons while touching God's living artwork. These are the memories that will delight a young man's soul... and will last a lifetime.

"his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper"

Men's Elk Advance part (4) Navigation

2008-09-18T21:19:00.001-07:00

"Making Memories With Our Sons"

series has given opportunity to deepen relationships and develop skills on varying levels.

During our Men's Elk Advance, the men had to navigate through the wilderness in difficult terrain while climbing mountains and dangerous cliffs. One can easily get turned around unless a good compass reading is taken before starting out and at various points bringing one back on track.

Many men have lost their lives over navigating with only with their senses to guide them. This is true in the Christian walk. Many forget to study their bibles "our road map for life" and get their bearing before starting out. They easily get distracted, confused and off course by following their senses and the prevailing culture. The word of God is our navigational system giving points of reference for every thought and decision. How easy it is to loose our way especially during difficult valleys and rough terrain. We must be determined to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, looking only to the bible as our guide and only answer. As we do, everything becomes clear again and we will find our way back when lost in the dense forest of life. May God help us all to spend time reading our bibles, lining our thoughts, feelings and decisions with God's word alone. Then we will succeed in the hunt for true trophy, a life which glorifies God.

Men's Elk Advance part (3) Character Development

2008-09-14T15:05:00.000-07:00

I love this picture!!!

In the series of articles I am writing on "Making Memories with Our Son's" this picture surely fits!

Daniel Ruglowski had such a look of surprise as he accidently found himself at the bottom of a mountainside, slidding down in a funny way! These boys were amazing as they tredged through some of the most difficult terrain, floating their clothing while swimming across a large ice cold river, finding their bearings in the darkest of nights, avoiding treacherous cliffs and dangerous beasts around them . They were real troopers too as they followed my husbands "No Scent" rule for their food to keep the game unaware of their presence. Daniel, I think falling down the side of the mountain may have spilled the beans though! Sort of a bugle call all in itself! This picture is worth a thousand words. Any takers? Let's see who can come up with the best caption?

Much character development is learned when young men suffer difficulties while bowhunting. They develop proven qualities such a patience, endurance and longsuffering. These characteristics and more can be transferred in other aspects including spiritual matters, life difficulties, business or leadership skills. It has been said that some of the greatest strategist in history were young men practicing alone in the fields just like this one, pushing their endurance, stretching their abilities and developing the character needed to become the great leaders and world changers of all time.

Men's Elk Advance part (2) Preparation

2008-09-14T07:39:00.000-07:00

"Making Memories With Our Son's"

Bowhunting takes good planning and preparation

It is an "Extreme" form of hunting

Much skill is needed when bowhunting. One must be well prepared, willing to develop techniques and inner qualities that will overcome a multitude of obsticles. Attention to detail is a must! These men were well abled bowhunters and it was a privilege for my husband to share more of his skills with them. We were impressed with our guests mountain abilities. The younger men carried GPS systems while the more seasoned men relied on their personal skills and knowledge.

Our little boy learned so much on preparation, character and wise planning just by watching and observing his daddy and the other men. This too is part of...

"making memories with our son".

Each hunter was put to the test as it took much skill and endurance to navigate through the mountain terrain.

As Christians, we too must carefully prepare our walk with God, considering all aspects in lieu of scripture. We must pay attention to the details of God's word to overcome the many obsticles set before us. Daily we must prayerfully aligning our thinking with the knowledge of scripture and not our feelings. Even with faithful time invested in God's word, we too will be tested to see how well we will apply what we have learned. Too many believer's get pulled into comfortable Christianity which cater to their feelings or the "prevailing culture" as their guide. God's word is the only true navigational system through the rough terrains of life. His GPS (God's Perfect System) is the only reliable compass we will ever need.

Men's Elk Advance "Memories With Our Son's"

2008-09-12T17:54:00.001-07:00

"Here I am"

How lovely on the mountains

Are the feet of him who brings good news,

Who announces peace

And brings good news of happiness...

(Josh Ruglowski high upon the mountain looking for elk)

Who announces salvation,

And says to Zion, "Your God reigns!"

Listen! Your watchmen lift up their voices,

They shout joyfully together;

For they will see with their own eyes

When the LORD restores Zion

Isaiah 52:6-8

I am going to write a series of articles on "Making Memories with Our Son's". One way we were able to strengthen the father son ties was through a Men's Elk Hunt we hosted. I used a term "Advance" from a seminar my husband went to this past year. I rephrased our hunt in honor of the "Men's Advance" developed and hosted by the Serven Family. I liked the idea of men not retreating but going forward and that is exactly what my husband and a few other men did this hunting season.

Our family was blessed to serve these men for a special Elk hunt. It was a time to advance forward into the wilds reaching for higher ground. Our dear friends from Texas flew in and spent a week of hunting, fishing, horse back riding, swimming in ice cold mountain rivers and covering a great deal of terrain day and night. They even got some mountain biking in. What a time of special fellowship and manly activities while they stayed in a log cabin in the wilderness.

It was great fun getting creative with cooking game and lots of goodies hunters love. The men had great stories and gave me a fright or two with their high adventures and late night wonderings in the wilderness. God was so good and they came back in one piece with a happy tired that comes from a great experience. One story really jumped out when told by one of the men describing being sheltered in heavy branches and brush which he broke his way into. As he waited for elk he could hear in the distance a storm heading his way. As it rushed through the mountains he could hear it pass around him in the protection of his covering. It reminded me of how God is our shelter and our strength through storms of life. As we take refuge in Him we can find peace and protection even when all around us is raging.

I hope to post more pictures and give a birds eye view of our Men's Elk Advance as I call it. It was great time to be alone with the Lord and be rekindled afresh in Christ.

He only is my rock and my salvation,

My stronghold; I shall not be shaken.

On God my salvation and my glory rest;

The rock of my strength, my refuge is in God.

Trust in Him at all times, O people;

Pour out your heart before Him;

God is a refuge for us.

Psalm 62:6-8

The Best Laid Plans of Mice and Men...

2008-08-09T21:54:00.000-07:00

"The best-laid plans of mice and men

often go awry"

Do you ever have great plans all laid out and find no matter how carefully you prepare, something still goes wrong? Well, that is how it was with the new organizing and cleaning articles I endeavored to write. For those of you who have waited with bated breath for the next installment and wondered what happened?...Well, life happened. Isn't that the way it is? We set plans in motion, that are "good to go" then destiny knocks on the door and walks right in. It is the surprising manner which catches us off guard. Like as in our case, the house we were in suddenly sold with a very small window of time to find a new place and move out.

Being in a whirlwind of surprises, reminds me of those rare mornings when everything is off kilter. The normal routine of having a nice cup of tea with some quite time to order the day, takes on new wings and heads south. When this occurs, the hamster wheel is set in motion. We madly dash through the house, hair flying everywhere, bed and face unmade with children wondering who the lady is doing the 220 in the living room.

We never seem to catch up do we and spin our wheels wondering what in the world happened?

*commercial break* Though one rises at the same time, this rare occurance was once a normal lifestyle when working outside the home. Thank God for "Deliverance Out of Egypt!" *now back to our story*

Of course this is also the day when everyone decides to drop in for a visit. Murphy's Law has a good laugh. On this auspicious occasion the phone rings incessantly, the UPS driver knocks at the door, the Jehovah Witnesses "you" while forgetting their booklets, unexpected guests come to call and the home you so happily pride yourself in, looks like a tornado hit it. Then to top it all off~your wonderful children who were taught such great manners decide to take the day off with rumpled attitudes to match their choice of clothing. This is the moment we either laugh or cry and I think it best to laugh and learn. Learn to accept that life does not have to go our way, we may not always have it "all together" even with the best laid plans. There are circumstances beyond our control that do put us to the test. Like the old T.V. broadcasts with the high pitched warning,

"This is just a test of the emergency broadcasting system"

I do believe the Lord allows testing to help us evaluate "how we are doing". We must try to remember that when the term finals of life are due, it is time to compare ourselves with the conduct from the last evaluation. Like a parent who measures their childs height on the wall every year, their "little one" may still seem small from all appearances but when compared with the last measurement, "they grew a whole inch" and now it is time to rejoice!

If you are having one of those days or seasons when life seems to be throwing you fastballs and you are stricking out, remember from whence you came. You have grown a great deal over the years and are still growing even if it is in small measures. Be encouraged as you seek to surrender your will to God's plan, that you will succeed and have great innings again. You will be able to look back at this time and thank God for the adversity, the material which develops godly character that wins for Christ.

Let us also try to be flexible and not hold so tightly to the plans we have made, as it hurts so much when God has to pry it from our fingers. Corrie Ten Boom used this same analogy when God was teaching her to lay down her plans for His. This saying helped me a great deal over the years, to let go of "my expectations" and to trust God. Of course this is still being tested to remind me where I am at and where I am going.

"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,
knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him"

"Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit." Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. Instead, you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that." James 4:13-15

A Homemaker's Prayer

2008-06-11T19:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Lord, help me to be a true

Homemaker!

May I have the strength and the will to do the humble tasks, that make a house a fit abode for my loved ones. Clean floors, shining china, dainty curtains, clean sheets, good food, a cheery fire-may my willing hands make these things possible.

But Father, let me remember that man does not live by bread alone, that material things but make a proper setting for life's real treasures of mind and spirit. Give me patience and understanding and kindness and humor and love in abundance, and charity for all. May the spirit of happiness, of joys and sorrows shared, of unity, of the peace that passeth understanding linger here! Help me to keep the path to Thee open and easy to find for the little ones in my keeping. And let there be laughter here.

And last, dear Lord, help me to remember the stranger without the door. May there be warmth enough on our hearth to share with him.

Is this too much for one so weak, so full of faults as I, to ask? At least it can be a goal toward which to strive, and to Thee all things are possible. Amen

-Mrs. Howard Peet, Minnesota

This was written in 1933 in a secular publication called

"The Farmers Wife"

I was raised in a region of the country that farmed floral seeds and produced fields of beautiful flowers spread over an entire valley. One had to travel up a long twisting road with steep curves to arrive at the highest level to view those magnificent acres. It was exciting reaching the top of our "Lookout Point" to see a colorful quilt, covering miles of land. This spread was "tucked in" to the very edges of our little town.

As one stands on higher ground, the scope widens and the topography becomes clearer. It is now easy to see the peaks and valleys, the path taken and the effort made to reach the crown. This view offers perspective as one considers the cost and time invested to create a bountiful yield. At the lookout, it is awe inspiring to realize those carefully planted seeds and faithful labor, produced such a beautiful harvest. A seasoned farmer thinks multidimensional, able to invision his yield long before tilling the ground. He considers all the possibilities and plans ahead preparing from varying levels and angles. He draws his plans from years of experience and the natural laws set by God. In the same way, a seasoned believer applies similar concepts. We do not rely on our experience but as we follow God's word, we see He is trustworthy and faithful. Over time we are able to understand Christ working in our lives. He tills the ground of our hearts, cultivating character, planting His word and pulling the weeds of our sin. In time this brings a bountiful yield both in our personal lives and family.

Through Christ, we are able to rise above our circumstances and widen our perspective. We therefore observe our spiritual fields objectively. It is not just a cliche that God alone gives "the increase". It is understood when we yield to the call as wives, mothers and daughters. These are hard won battles, fought daily as we bring our thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ. There is no place for arrogant commentator's, looking down on those working the land as the owner requests.

Last year I was asked by my dear friend, Lydia Sherman (LadyLydia) to write articles for a ministry called Guard the Home, to share what God taught me as an "older woman" and a Home School Veteran. We have spent a great of deal time brain storming over issues and ways to turn our culture back to the original plan for wives and daughter's. In this particular online ministy, we strive to encourage mother's with real issues and the various struggles raising a generation of godly children. We also attempt to help those currently in the thick of battle, who may be dealing with difficult situations. Through studying God's word, living life and working through the many cycles of raising children to adulthood, we have tread many miles in the shoes of a wife and mother. It gives opportunity to share lessons learned and hopefully edify, exhort and give practical help.

I do want to say this with a loving spirit~ many older woman have failed to fulfill their calling to younger women. They have left these dear one's to themselves, perhaps due to fear that their words will not be honored, welcomed or listened to. Maybe it has been pure laziness or self indulgence. These younger ladies have been discouraged and try to help each other by forming groups that give inspiration and answers. Yet it is a shame that "older women" who have been called to this task, neglect their responsibilites. I am not speaking to those who already raised children and now serve their family in another capacity~ which includes teaching younger women. I am addressing all who may need to rekindle and refresh their biblical mandate. May we let go of our past failings and press on. May we strive to be of service to our dear sister's who need our support and watch God move to win a generation back to Him. Let us see the blessing of the Lord!

"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" Phil 3:13-14

A young married advisor giving counsel~not yet experienced~to younger ladies may still "ring true" as God's word is faithful, yet there is a particular reason why God directed the "older woman" to teach the younger women. When one has raised children to adulthood with all the varying trials, looking back is "realistic" with an understanding that is lived and felt. It also gives opportunity to the see end results of their work, to reassess what was successful or what should be adjusted with time to work it through. These lessons learned add a multifaceted perspective giving a fuller view. Maturity develops from time in the field, living it out day after day, season after season. I appreciate the excellent online ministries that bring in "older women" to give testimony and impart wisdom. This is wise stewardship of their efforts and time if they are prioritized with husband and family first.

Those of us who are older woman, realize the struggle to firmly hold our footing while the dust storms of adversity try to blind us off course. Keeping one's balance and biblical perspective is a prayerful challenge. Rocky terrain, difficult soil's, hard work in severe weather were our class assignments. We learned how children grew best in which types of soil and when to take them from the greenhouse to be cultivated in prepared ground. We also learned from our mistakes, what to avoid, how to handle pestilence and which weeds choke out the growth of our little sprouts. Many times we tripped over own feet or fell in vermin created holes. We spent time on our knees bruised and badly shaken, crying out to God. Christ proved ever faithful, our comfort, strength and our refuge. His love shown trustworthy through years of endeavors and ultimately He won the victory. An older woman is fully aware of her imperfections and failings without dwelling on them as she matures in Christ. It is by the Lord's mercy and grace that we eventually see the fruit of all our labors. Those who have not yet witnessed the harvest, continually labor on through planting, watering and cultivating by faith.

I would like to encourage all the "Older Women" who have a Titus 2:5 mindset and have raised adult sons and daughters in the same vision of faithfulness, to reach out to younger women. We are entrusted with this great responsibility and must consider this as a privilege along with a directive from God. Some of you may feel inadequate to teach younger women or that your failings in life disqualify you. Remember~ Christ is our redeemer, our healer and restores the years that the locusts have eaten away.

So, your life may not be perfect but the "Perfect One" our Lord Jesus, will use you to bless and encourage a younger women to catch a vision of femininity, biblical womanhood and motherhood. Who could better comfort a young struggling mother with compassion and understanding as one who identifies with this trouble? One who learned these lessons later in life, can gently and effectively point ways of avoiding these pitfalls. With love, you can exhort younger women to see feminism for what it really is and how to avoid it even in the church. Your kind words will give inspiration to raise godly daughters and sons with a multigenerational vision of biblical faithfulness.

You can do this in so many creative ways that do not have to take a great deal of time or cost to you and your family. How many opportunities do you have at church, homeschool events or even in town to humbly speak to a younger woman and ask her how she is doing? A listening ear will reveal ways that you can be a blessing. God will tell you what to say and you may save this dear one years of heartache. What a blessing you will be as you share what Jesus has taught you. So ladies, let's link hearts, arms and even some of our sites to each other and rise up against the sweeping winds that want to drive these younger ladies into worldliness and despair.

You are so important and the higher calling to an older woman is clear.

"Older women Likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips, nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young woman to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored. Titus 2:3-4

According to scripture, the passage of time brings forth wisdom, knowledge and biblical qualities that are beautiful in God's eyes as we endeavor to follow His plan. Like the farmer's wife, we continue to look upon the "Lord of the Harvest". Our time on earth is not yet complete, some of the fruits of our labors are still being worked out as we trust and expectantly wait upon Him. Jesus who began a good work, promises to faithfully complete it . "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" Phillipians 1:6

I also pray with God's help, to pass what I have learned from "time in the field", biblical study, my husband's wise counsel, lesson's from others and personal observations. I pray "Country Diary of a Twenty First Century Lady" has been an encouragement, inspiration and an applicable blessing to your life. A verse that has been my faithful friend over the years is~

"Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus"
Phillipians 3:12

With this sincerely and humbly stated, I write to you.

In Christ's love~Lisa Hollinger

(Artwork by W.H. Hinton & Robert Duncan)

Our Beacon Of Hope

2008-06-05T11:31:00.000-07:00

The Keeper's House

A small boat scarcely seen,

In wild, torrential seas.

A rocky coast awaits!

Hear, cry... "Is this my fate?"

A beam of light shines through,

Life line of hope guides true.

He stands with open arms,

Haven's rest, fends the storms.

Whose calling from the sea?

Lord, Jesus "It is me".

Written by Lisa Hollinger

May 2008 copyright

If you have a family member, a friend or a situation that has caused you deep distress, you may be feeling overwhelmed...like a small boat engulfed by torrential waves tossing to and fro. Seeing disaster ahead, you frantically try to steer the boat away from its rocky demise. Shouting “May-day” Is there is no one to help, no one to calm the raging storm, no one to throw a life line if swallowed up or tossed overboard? There... through the fog... a flickering light, a faint hope calls through the darkness.

Jesus, Our “Beacon of Hope”.

There it is again! The light beam brightens, beckoning “come this way” a refuge awaits, a safe haven through the tempests. When we finally stop fighting the heavy seas of adversity and throw ourselves fully and completely into the Master’s arms, He will light our way.

"Master, carest thou not that we perish?

"When He got into the boat, His disciples followed Him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being covered with the waves; but Jesus Himself was asleep".
Have you tried to follow the Lord and the downpour of adversity became so great, that you felt as if you were going under? Do you ask yourself if God still cares, does he hear your prayers, or if you are being punished? Does God seem distant to you, leaving you in a boat, in an ocean of trouble without a paddle? Jesus is right there in the ship with you, just like He was with his disciples who were feeling some similar thoughts. Jesus rested, appeared like He was asleep. He understood all and had the power to calm the storm.

Jesus said, "Why are you so fearful?"

If you are experiencing heavy storms, especially from someone you care about or due to a difficult situation, you may feel pressed from all sides. Fear can hit you like a heavy wave; it floods and controls one's emotions. You must keep your eyes fixed upon the Lord and not lose sight of Him. If you allow bitterness or anger in, you will capsize. When Peter walked on water he became frightened. "But seeing the wind, and beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me! Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" When Peter returned his eyes to Christ, he was delivered from sinking. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus and you too will rise above your circumstances.

Today remember the Master and Commander of your life, the one called Jesus Christ. He will speak "peace" to your confusion, "stillness" to your chaos and "rest" for your weary soul. Let go of the helm of controls to Him who calms the sea. Let Him comfort you, love you and teach you through it all. Jesus is our refuge and our strength.

"And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?"

Mark 4:38-41

"Beacon of Hope is a product of imagination and an allegory of faith. A small boat, barely visible on the horizon, rides heavy seas that surge and crash onto a rocky coast; the lighthouse beacon is its sole guide. The keeper's house is a safe haven against all storms. " — Thomas Kinkade

Let's Clean House

2008-05-13T23:19:00.000-07:00

We all need to find ways to lighten our burdens and refocus our resolve when life challenges come our way. Stress can be emotionally and physically draining when one is overwhelmed and it is important to find ways to constructively turn it around and accomplish something good through it all. It will lift the weary heart, bring clarity to mind, give energy back and bring order out of chaos.

I plan to write a series on "cleaning house" so to speak from a metaphorical perspective as well as physical. I believe it is important to seasonally clean our inner dwellings as well as our material households. We need to check for attitudes that may express one has “arrived” or beyond personal growth. Our "arrival" time will finale when we enter through glory's gate then we will be free at last. Mature Christian’s deeply and humbly understand this though it is easy to forget from whence they came especially after receiving great personal growth in the Lord.

Let us throw back the dusty drapes and let the light of Christ shine through our wintered windows. With God's grace we will enter from glory to glory, honoring him in every nook and cranny of our lives. I love these words my daughter Seanna wrote when she was 18 about this very idea.

“Throw back the drape of self-absorption,

That dims the room of needs unshown,

And let the light of true perception…

Reveal their face, that they be known.”

~ Author Seanna Hollinger

I hope to write this as a series and show you my Spring cleaning as I am able. I will share with you what God is teaching me through it and perhaps encourage you in the process. God will make beauty from ashes in every area of your life and I pray this will inspire you that you are not alone in this difficult yet rewarding challenge. We all need to let God's grace cleanse our inner dwelling and let him rearrange our furnishings if need be. Let us not give up just because we have made the same mistakes over and over again or when it seems we will never see lasting changes. So keep checking back as we "clean house" together!

The Legend Of Saint Valentine

2008-01-24T18:59:00.000-08:00

"Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you"

Proverbs 9:8

"From Your Valentine"

Happy Valentine's Day!

It should also be noted that scripture makes it clear that we come to God through Christ alone, not by any other, be on heaven or earth nor of one given a name by mortals of "Saint".

Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me~John 14:6

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life~John 3:16

A New Year of Joy!

2007-12-30T13:44:00.000-08:00

A little boy

His daddies joy

A bright and happy day.

The snow to clear

A time of cheer

It lifts our hearts today.

And when it's done

A treasured fun

O' memories of play.

Our boy has grown

His daddies home!

A New Year's here to stay.

written by Lisa Hollinger

Our family sends you our happiest of greetings for a wonderful season of joyful memories to come. May you receive continued blessings to your home with a rekindled spirit, refreshed anew in the love of God. May your heart continually stay light and may God guide you with great wisdom and understanding throughout this coming New Year.

Philemon 1:6-8

The Great Trophy Hunt

2007-11-10T14:17:00.000-08:00

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven...
and for our family, this time of year means...

(Brian's Hardwoods design)

Our mighty hunter is off in pursuit of "Great Trophy!"

What can that be? Well, for my rough and ruddy husband it is more then finding a "Boon and Crocket" or "Pope and Young" buck. It is greater then finding the all illusive trophy whitetail he's been after for years. It even goes beyond receiving inspiration while field testing his Hardwoods pattern or creating new ideas.

What is this amazing trophy?
It is the Lord Jesus Christ who is the Greatest Trophy a man can pursue. In receiving salvation from sin, gaining eternal life, he finds healing for the heart and home, giving him real hope for the future. This gain goes beyond seasons or time and is without measure. Inhaling the refreshment of hours spent alone with the Lord, the beauty of the outdoors and seeking wisdom from above is my husbands true treasure house. This quiet time with God makes him a great leader for our family.

An Outdoorsman After God's Heart
Archery develops disciplines which carry over into daily life. Bowhunting takes great skill with extreme patience, endurance, intense planning, self control, ability to overcome varying conditions, adversity, along with gaining many other character qualities. Young men could benefit from the life lessons learned in bowhunting and training in the field. Those who truly know my husband say he lives these qualities out and I agee. I believe bowhunting honed and sharpened his character through it's extreme discipline.

It has been said that love is spelled T-I-M-E. When a man keeps his family a priority all year long, spending quantity time with them, he will find great excitment for his hunting trips. Our home has been blessed with a man who faithfully commits his time to us. We are thankful for the many wonderful ways God has spoken through his hunting experiences and hours in the woods. He comes back refreshed "Super Charged" teaching many biblical principles, adventures and lessons learned. We have great fireside chats but what I love the most is what God teaches him personally through it all.

Let Us Stay On Target

So ladies, do not fret when your husband is gone for a season to hunt. You may find the Lord will speak to him in ways beyond anything you could imagine and in turn you will be blessed. It is such a good thing to be quiet with the Lord, your husband will be strengthend in his manhood, leadership and he will find refreshment for his soul.

"He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water,

Which yields its fruit in its season

And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers."

Psalm 1:3

Gone From My Sight

2007-11-06T18:58:00.000-08:00

"I am standing upon the seashore...

A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean.

She is an object of beauty and strength.

I stand and watch her until at length she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come to mingle with each other.

Then someone at my side says: "There, she is gone!"

"Gone where?"

Gone from my sight. That is all.

She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side and she is just as able to bear her load of living freight to her destined port.

Her diminished size is in me, not in her.
And just at the moment when someone at the my side says: "There, she is gone!" there are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout: "Here she comes!"

And that is dying."

Henry Van Dyke

...before the throne there was something like a sea of glass, like crystal

Revelations 4:6 (a)
Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever. The angel said to me,

"These words are trustworthy and true"...

Revelations 22:1-5

This article is in honor of those who have lost a loved one to death and in

Memory of Eleanor Daehnke

mother of my dear friend Barb Hansen

Designed For Him

2007-09-21T18:34:00.000-07:00

During discussions with my daughter and other unmarried women across the United States including various countries, it is amazing to hear the diverse interests young ladies hold as the Lord prepares them for their future callings. Considering the beautiful role given to adapt "help meet" to one's husband, it is so edifying to hear how the Lord is working this incredible plan in these dear girls. Many interests young women hold, may be the very encouragment needed to help their future husband "win the battle" to succeed in life.

I spent many years considering "why?"

I had interests in filmmaking, nature, business and various outdoor sports then later realized the Lord created me for my husband's good.

( Camouflage pattern designed by my husband Brian)

Brian is an amazingly talented inventor, businessman and Sportsman especially geared in the field of bow hunting whitetail and camouflage design. He loves nature, wildlife photography, creative design, invention, hunting, along with many other gifts of hospitality, counsel and peacefully refreshing the body of Christ. Feeling at one time that my interests and talents did not seem "real feminine", I recall praying that my desires would become more "homemakey"~my terminology.
As I embraced femininity, being a Titus 2:5 homemaker and accepted that these additional talents were from the Lord, I realized I didn't loose anything but was able to give so much more to my husbands calling. As I let go of "my" resolve and adapted "my" plans to his leanings then the Lord opened the windows of heaven and poured out such a blessing I have not been able to contain it. This strengthened my husbands life purpose for I truly understood his heart, his ideas and business with the desires God gave him.

It is such a joy to be designed especially for him as I yield to God's design for me.

So young ladies, take heart!

You may think you have a very odd interest when in fact...

it may be the very thing God gave to be a greater

"help meet" to that wonderful man He has in store for you.

To the wives who wonder what in the world I am talking about, I will ask you this...have you followed the biblical mandate to adapt yourself to your husbands plans? Have you set aside your own agenda? Have you given up "your rights" to have it your way yet? As you take the plunge surrendering your will to His, you will find true freedom, deeper joy, your highest calling and the greatest fulfillment you will ever know this side of heaven.

Then the LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him."

Genesis 2:18

By The Sea

2007-09-01T02:03:00.000-07:00

I have often wondered why the sea has such a hold, drawing me with the ebb and flow of the afternoon tides. Perhaps it is from my youth, living close to the Great Pacific with many happy days on its coastal playgrounds. As a young woman sitting for hours in soft sands, I pondered the magnificence and source of the sea's mesmerizing beauty with a force so powerful and peaceful, it calmed my soul.
I couldn't imagine anything more inspiring, expressing contrasting beauty and awe. God clearly displayed his splendor masterfully revealing His presence.

He is the creator of the universe with a

"controlled strength",

an incredible power and peace contained all in one.

Back when I did not understand God's plan for my life or know Christ as my personal Savior~the lifeline to my soul, I could only fathom a part of His truth. The ocean became an indescribable realization of God's presence that had no way of expressing itself except to honor what my words could not speak. I knew then that my first daughter would be named after the ocean sea glorifying our creator, His power, controlled strength with outpouring grace.

God shows his magnificence through His creations. Even those unaware of the scriptures can find their way to God through His mighty designs. We thus ponder, wonder and hopefully some will come to true humility and thankfulness.

May we give the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob the glory for all His handiwork revealing He is truly the Master designer. May we worship the Creator and not the creation with a desire to honor and fully trust only in Him.

Peace and Calm

2007-09-01T00:11:00.000-07:00

Breathtaking Beauty

Traveling up the Oregon coast at this time of year has many unexpected rewards. The tourist season tapers off creating a quiet, serene drive. The migrating whales make their annual trek through century old territory. Wild seals in sunny spawned seas, float backside then quickly twirl catching their Pacific delights.

Heceta Lighthouse

One feels as if they stepped back in time to a slower pace of life. Taking in the oceanic air with it's enhanced blue sky, brightens one to embrace the beauty. A refreshing respite, strengthens and uplifts the soul.

Father and son rekindled afresh.

Journey to the HEART ♥

2007-08-31T23:20:00.000-07:00

It was truly "A Journey to the HEART" ♥

The Journey was a beautiful opportunity...

For our daughter and her team to explore various types of hearts, identify the attitudes of the heart that please God, enjoy a time of delighting in the Lord, experience special times of personally seeking God in creation, fellowship together, and journal their progress in a valuable 120-page syllabus. They enjoyed a beautiful ten day retreat in the Northwoods of Michigan lodged by the lake in which they studied, prayed, played and sought God together as one team.