Weigh-in Wednesday

What a great way to end the year with a final 2009 "weigh-in" just a couple days shy of the new year. I'm not saying this as a negative, but as a positive. I'm excited to leave my poor eating habits and lack of exercise behind me in 2009 and start 2010 fresh and re-ENERGIZED. With today's weigh-in, I will move forward to a healthier style of living with healthier habits . I look forward to continuing with "The Sisterhood of Shrinking Jeans" for encouragement, support and motivation.

Todays Weigh-in: 154 (I've stayed the same weight over the holidays)... This is my starting weight for 2010 with my goal to lose 10 lbs in the next 7 weeks (Feb 17th goal to be at 144!), and another 10 lbs the following 7 weeks.

MY PLAN~

• Scripture Memory (to keep empowered through God's word and His strength)
• Journal food and calorie intake (keeping a balance of proper Exchange amounts withing 1400-1600 calories ~ this was successful for me when I was in First Place)
• Power 90 with my husband, Kirk; as well as make efforts to be more active all around
• Stay faithful to my accountabitlity (my friends in "The Hood", Kirk, my exercise partner, & my real-life sister Traci, a fellow sister in the Hood)
• Stay focused each day and not let distractions keep me from my goals!
  
  

MEMORY VERSES~ Psalm 121:4-6

Continuing on with memorizing Psalm 121, I will add verses 4-6 to my previous 1-3 verses...

Psalm 121 A song of ascents. (NIV)
1 I lift up my eyes to the hills—

where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the LORD,

the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip—

he who watches over you will not slumber;

4 indeed, he who watches over Israel

will neither slumber nor sleep.

(When I pray this back to God,

I'll insert "Children of God" for Israel)

5 The LORD watches over you—

the LORD is your shade at your right hand;

6 the sun will not harm you by day,

nor the moon by night.

Psalm 121:1-3 *20*09* personal challenge (Walk with the Lord #7) week 44 & 45 and LPM challenge verse 23

World AIDS Day

My family and I sponsor a sweet girl from Ghana Africa through Compassion International and we have been blessed by her ever since. "Alice" was 6 when we began our sponsorship and is now 10. We exchange letters, pictures, share the love of Jesus, and pray for each other. We know we are making a difference in Alice's life, but she is also making a difference in ours. Last year, Compassion International asked us if we could help Alice beyond our regular sponsorship ($38.00 a month) and add $8.00 a month addition to provide AIDS preventative treatment for Alice. The risk for Alice getting AIDS is extremely high in South Africa, so we knew immediately God was giving us an opportunity to use the resources he has given us to help Alice and make a contribution to impact the world.

Today, December 1, we celebrate World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day was founded in 1988 by the World Health Organization. Compassion has been able to implement comprehensive and holistic services that allow us to proactively address this widespread disease one child at a time. Join us as we celebrate the global impact and the work our Savior is doing in the lives of children.

THINK ABOUT THIS~ Have you ever considered making a long term, life changing difference in a child's life?... let alone some one who is a complete stranger in a foreign land? Have you ever considered sponsoring a child through Compassion International? To be honest, before we sponsored Alice, I had a hard time with the thought of giving up a chunk of money each month to a complete stranger. But God quickly changed my heart and showed me He blesses us so we can bless others. When we do acts of generosity and kindness we are doing them unto the Lord; we are not to give reluctantly or out of compulsion... He loves a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:6-7)

Jesus tells us in Scripture that "Whatever you did for the least of these... you did for me." (Matthew 25:37-40)...

Wednesday Weigh-In

This has to be a real quick blog entry, since my kids are home from school today, I have Girl Scout errands to run for our upcoming troop meeting, a Christmas tree to pull out of the attic, some Thanksgiving prep to do, the list goes on... YES, today is a busy day.

As for my "Sisterhood" weigh-in...

Last week= 154

This week= 154.5...

I GAINED +.5

UGH!... my struggle continues



My goal for this next week with all the Thanksgiving goodies, will be "portion control", for sure! I need to get motivated to start exercising, too.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

BRITTNEY... Always and Forever

Two weeks ago my beautiful niece, Brittney Rogene Jennings joined the Lord in Heaven (on Nov. 8, 2009), as the result of an automobile accident in Corpus Christi, Texas. Born in White Salmon, WA on Dec. 17, 1991, Brittney loved playing sports and being with her friends. She was active in soccer, softball, basketball and volleyball, until the age of 16 when she underwent spinal fusion surgery at OHSU. She attended Carson Elementary in Carson, WA, Castle Rock Middle and High schools, in Castle Rock, WA and then transferred to Kelso High School in Kelso, WA for her junior year. In July of this year she moved with her family and boyfriend, Sean Miller, to Corpus Christi, Texas, where she was an honor roll senior at Calallen High School. She developed wonderful friendships wherever she went, and her friends and family meant the world to her. Brittney had the ability to light up a room with her personality and sense of humor... (portion from her obituary)

CLICK HERE
for Memorial Video

A celebration of Brittney's life was held at the Castle Rock Christian Church on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2009. Brittney loved dye-dye, so to honor her, friends and family made tye-dye shirts to wear at her memorial.

To some, death seems so final; to others, it's just an address change to their real "Home". Brittney changed addresses early in her earthly life, and out of selfishness I'm sad. But out of selflessness, I rejoice for Brittney and am comforted to know she is in God's hands at "Home". Someday, I will see her again when it's my turn to change addresses and go Home. For now, I miss you, Brittney! & hold a special place in my heart for you always. I love you, Britt.

Change Requires Change!

Today is WEDNESDAY and my day to "weigh-in" for the Sisterhood of Shrinking Jeans Challenge. I really wasn't looking forward to the report of my scale, those big digital numbers that somehow influence my mood. I stepped on the scale, and I knew deep down the report wouldn't be good since I did absolutely nothing this past week to make any changes in my poor eating habits and lack of physical activity (exercise). Sure enough, as I looked down at those big red colored numbers, the report wasn't good... I gained back 2.5 lbs this week from the 3.5 lb. weight loss from last Wednesday. I'm still down 1 lb, from when I originally started this challenge (on Nov. 4)... but with a sigh of defeat, I say to myself, "That's o.k...today is a new day; I'm not going to be discouraged. I can still do this." (Phil 4:13) As of today, I choose to get on track to lose 2 lbs a week for the next couple months only by taking control and making some changes. (Matt 6:33)

I sat down and made a list of my health habits that aren't good; things I know I need to change to be more healthy. I made an action plan for each bad habit and will implement them full force this week. These "ACTION PLANS" are goals that are deliberate to move me forward. I will keep a journal in a spiral notebook for better accountability and follow through. Hopefully my list and journaling will help me be more focused as well.

Since I'm getting this post done late, I won't include my "list" or "ACTION PLANS" until next Wednesday (more typing than I'm in the mood to do right now). Hopefully next week, I'll share a good report on my progress and how well this new direction is working!

One thing I recognize through my struggles this week and actually this year~ If I want to make changes in improving my health, I must make some changes.

No more just talking about it...
I NEED TO TAKE REAL ACTION!

CHANGE REQUIRES CHANGE.

MEMORY VERSES~ Psalm 121:1-3

Since the passing of my niece Brittney, I have found myself in a funk. Psalm 121 gives me comfort and hope. It reminds me that my help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth... He never sleeps, He never gets tired. He watches over all of us and doesn't want to harm any of us. He is with us always.

Although I don't understand why Brittney was taken from this earth so early in her life, I know she is with the Lord in heaven and His plans for her continue. He loves us ALL so much and has a plan and purpose for each one of us.

In the Message translation of Jeremiah 29:11, God tells us, "I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for." His plans are to be fulfilled both on earth and in heaven, but either way, His Word promises He will never leave us nor forsake us and He loves us and cares! We are to be strong and courageous as He is with us where ever we go (DT 31:6). I know in time my funk will pass and having God's Word in my heart helps that much more.

Over the next 6-7 weeks to the end of December, I will be imprinting these verses on my heart~

Psalm 121
(NIV) Psalm 121 A song of ascents.

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?

2 My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;

4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
(when I pray this scripture back to God,
I will replace "Israel" with "His children")
5 The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
7 The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
8 the LORD will watch over your coming
and going both now and forevermore.

Psalm 121:1-3 *20*09* personal challenge (Walk with the Lord #7) week 42 & 43 and LPM challenge verse 22

TODAY~

TODAY is my day to log in my "Sisterhood of Shrinking Jeans" weight loss... but TODAY I have so much more on my heart and in my thoughts than weight loss.

TODAY~ I think about life... how precious it is, and how each day we have to take a breath is such a gift...

TODAY~ I think about the ones in our lives we love, those who God has put there for His purpose...

TODAY~ I think about hugging my children, saying, "I love you!" to those who I love and not waiting for tomorrow or the next day to do random acts of kindness towards others....

TODAY~ I do not celebrate my weight loss...

TODAY~ I grieve the loss of my sweet 17 year old niece, Brittney, who left this earth on Sunday through a tragic car accident to be with Jesus...

TODAY~ I celebrate Brittney's memory at the same time am heartbroken she is no longer here with us...

TODAY~ I am inspired that her last words to her mom (my sister) were, "I love you, mom", as she went out the door to "chill" with her friends...

TODAY~ I am thankful Brittney found true peace and joy these past couple months that overflowed onto those people closest to her; she was beaming with joy last time I saw her...

TODAY~ I pray for my sister (Traci) and her husband (Ryan) who lost their only child so suddenly and tragically and are going through the biggest heartache of their lives.

TODAY~ I pray for her boyfriend, Sean, who loved Britt with all his heart.

TODAY~ I ask anyone reading this post to please say a special prayer for Traci, Ryan, Sean, and ALL those people Brittney left behind who are trying to understand and absorb what happened... pray that God will heal their hearts during this sad time...

TODAY~ I encourage YOU to not put off anything for tomorrow you should and could do TODAY...

say "I love you"...

give a hug...

forgive someone...

ask for forgiveness...

take steps to overcome an addiction...

make good choices...

give the gift of your time to those in your life...

extend random acts of kindness when the opportunity arises...

I encourage you to do it TODAY~
you might not have a tomorrow.

In loving memory of my sweet angel niece,

Brittney Rogene Jennings

December 17, 1991 - November 8, 2009

PRAYER: Lord, thank you that You have Brittney in your arms and she is in your holy presence. I lift to Your loving care Traci, Ryan, Sean and all those people who are brokenhearted by Brittney's passing. I ask you give those grieving Brittney comfort that only You can give and Your peace which surpasses all understanding. Lord help us ALL appreciate the people in our lives, to not take each day for granted, and to honor the loved ones in our lives TODAY and EVERYDAY through words and deeds. God rest Brittney's sweet soul. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

A "Weighty" Issue

Over the past 12 months I have put on 20 pounds. My energy level has suffered because of this weight and I don't like it! On top of that, I turned 45 a couple months ago and fear that as I get older, the weight is going to be harder and harder to lose the more I put it off. I've been on a roller coaster of being encouraged one day to take control of my additional weight issue- to do something about it, followed by discouragement of failure after I have an afternoon pigout (afternoon and evenings are when I'm the weakest). I get discouraged when I plan an exercise program and don't stick with it. I tend to get easily distracted and end up not following through with the program. More failure! I have been frustrated with myself because I know better! I know all the things I need to do... how to eat healthy, drink lots of water, get good sleep, exercise regularly... but I lack discipline! I have identified I need accountability- flesh and blood accountability. I seek God about this and ask him to provide accountability for me and so far, I really have none that works.

This morning, as I was peaking over my blog list getting updated with new posts, I read penguinsandladybugs blog post about her struggles with weight and a "Starting Point" post. I choose to join Penguin on her journey and am excited to add myself to this "Sisterhood" group- "The Sisterhood of Shrinking Jeans". I need to be encouraged that my shrinking jeans don't need to keep shrinking and get them to fit again like normal... I need to reclaim the energy back I have lost. For me, losing this weight it about being healthy and feeling healthy and then the vanity part trails in. I don't like looking and feeling "thick". I'm hoping to continue searching for flesh and blood accountability like maybe a walking partner, but for now just posting my journey is going to help me be motivated to stick with it. I'm EXCITED to band together with "The Hood".

I weighed in this morning and have 20 pounds I plan to lose in the next 10 weeks (week of Jan 11)... that's 2 pounds a week. VERY DOABLE! I hope to "check-in" every Wednesday with my progress, successes and frustrations. I took some before pictures of my problem areas... they're GROSS!... like a muffin top belly and cottage cheese thighs. I will keep them private for now.

MEMORY VERSES~ 2 Corinthians 9:6-7

I love these verses, but have never committed them to memory until now. I always seem to easily relate to verses that pertain to gardening, planting, sowing, harvesting, etc., because I am an avid gardener. Praise God He is the Master Gardener of our lives and provides us the seed to sow. He gives us free will as to what and how we will sow and how fruitful we become. My prayer is that my harvest is pleasing to the Lord and as I give love to others, give of my time, and give my resources to further God's kingdom, that I bear much fruit for God's glory. Here are my memory verses for the next couple weeks.

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 NIV)

2 Corinthians 9:6-7~ *20*09* personal challenge (Walk with the Lord #7) week 40 & 41 and LPM challenge verse 21

MEMORY VERSE~ James 1:21-22

Wow! Life has been filled with such "busyness" these past months having just come off the summer filled with activities then getting right into the school year with my four children all at different levels of education (K- 2nd grade, 8th grade, 11th grade). My head spins just thinking about how God has blessed my with ways to serve Him. I love being busy serving but certain things I enjoy end up being sacrificed (like craft projects and blogging).

I so badly want to get on-line more often to blog, but I'm usually on-line just long enough to quickly check email, peak at my favorite blog postings, and do an occasional google search. Soon, I plan to get back into crafting and blogging as they're such great outlets! For now, I remain faithful to growing in the Lord through memory verses, applying them to my everyday living, and to my memory verse blog posts and the LPM Challenge~ which by the way, I am looking SO forward to the January Siesta Celebration in Houston... I can hardly stand it!

God has been working on me in certain areas I have a struggle~ not listening carefully, speaking too quickly and becoming quick tempered and angry too fast (mostly with my kids). The last couple week's verses (James 1:19-20) have ministered to me tremendously and praise God I have written his words on my heart so I may not sin against him! As the Holy Spirit frequently brought to mind my memory verses when I needed them at particular times, I felt his prompting to memorize James 1:21-22 as my next verses for further growth and application. These verses hold a treasure of truth and I am thankful for God's word to be my guide and salvation.

Therefore, get rid of all moral filth

and the evil that is so prevalent

and humbly accept the word planted in you,

which can save you.

Do not merely listen to the word,
and so deceive yourselves.
Do what it says.
James 1:21-22 (NIV)

James 1:21-22~ *20*09* personal challenge(Walk with the Lord #7) week 38 & 39 and LPM challenge verse 20

MEMORY VERSE James 1:19-20 (NIV)

These verses hold so much wisdom! I'm reminded that I have two ears for listening and one mouth for speaking, so I should listen to others more than I ramble my voice (and opinions) at them. If I become angry, hopefully it's not an anger outburst due to a hot temper... man's anger does not please God.

Everyone should be quick to listen,

slow to speak and slow to become angry,

for man's anger does not bring

about the righteous life that God desires.

James 1:19-20 (NIV)

James 1:19-20~ *20*09* personal challenge(Walk with the Lord #7) week 36 & 37 and LPM challenge verse 19

MEMORY VERSE Revelation 17:14 (NIV)

I'm joining Siesta Mama, Beth this week with her memory verse and will be memorizing the same verse from Revelation. Beth commented in her post she chose Revelation 17:14 "because one of the commentators I’m studying, W. Hendriksen, Th.D., who wrote a 1939 classic called More Than Conquerors, says the entire Book of Revelation can be summed up in that one verse." Sounds good to me! Here's my newest memory verse:

"They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them because He is Lord of lords and King of kings--and with Him will be His called, chosen and faithful followers." Revelation 17:14 (NIV)

Revelation 17:14~ *20*09* personal challenge
(Walk with the Lord #7) week 35 and
LPM challenge verse 18

MEMORY VERSE John 10:11

I have been enriched and empowered through memorizing Scripture each week this past year. As another week is upon us, I have selected a Scripture from the book of John, Chapter 10. This entire chapter is about The Shepherd and His Flock.

My memory verse this week is Jesus speaking,

John 10:11 (NIV)

"I am the good shepherd.

The good shepherd lays down

his life for the sheep."

In my husband, Kirk, and my bedroom, on the wall next to our bed is a picture (above) of The Good Shepherd, OUR Good Shepherd. This picture was in Kirk's bedroom growing up as a child and continues to adorn the walls of his bedroom to this day. My memory verse is in honor of my Jesus, my Good Shepherd and is a reminder that we are His sheep, He is our Shepherd and He laid down His life for us!

John 10:11 is for my *20*09* personal challenge
(Walk with the Lord #7) week 34 and
LPM challenge verse 17

SURVIVOR... one of my dreams!

My name is Teri, and I'm a SURVIVOR fan! There's a very large group of die hard SURVIVOR fans who share the same dream of someday actually being on the CBS reality show, SURVIVOR. We apply season after season holding onto the hope of someday getting "the call" to come play the game. There are thousands of us, and only a few select are chosen. And I mean FEW!

I'm one of those "die-hard's" who has applied for 10 different seasons (multiple times) with the hope to be chosen... See my video below.

With the newest SURVIVOR season getting ready to begin September 17~ SURVIVOR Samoa, my mind is racing with what twists and turns this season will reveal, the different story plots, the conflicts, the challenges, and the variety of characters portrayed... It's exciting for me to dream of the prospect of someday having the opportunity to experience this adventure of a lifetime first hand... I'm ready to OUTWIT, OUTPLAY, and OUTLAST and be the Sole SURVIVOR!

Here's my most recent SURVIVOR application video I submitted for SURVIVOR 19/20 (the actual video I sent to casting had an intro title and end with my phone number as well as the last 26 seconds chopped off where I am babbling; videos must be no more than 3 minutes long)

My video is nothing outrageous,
and is NOT performed.
It's just little ole me being real.

"Shoes"

I have not received a "call" yet... I will keep applying, waiting, and hoping, knowing that God has His hand in everything, and IF it's HIS WILL, He will make it happen for me.

I continue to dream and hope.

MEMORY VERSE Proverbs 13:10

I need this verse as I fall into the trap of being an "arrogant know it all" on occation... I hate discord and want to strive to be a person of peace through wisdom. Thank you Lord for your word and for people in my life that give me godly counsel! Help me listen to You through your word and godly counsel.

Arrogant know-it-alls stir up discord,

but wise men and women

listen to each other's counsel.

Proverbs 13:10 (Message)

Proverbs 13:10 are for my *20*09* personal challenge
(Walk with the Lord #7) week 32 and
LPM challenge verse 16

The Power of Connection

I ran across this inspiring video and wanted to share it. This short video reminds me the importance of loving others, of giving of my time and how compassion can make a profound difference in others' lives.

After watching this video, I am challenged to be more deliberate about demonstrating stronger compassion to people, especially my children and the children who's paths I cross. ENJOY~




THINK ABOUT THIS~ Who, TODAY, can you "connect with" and "make a difference" in their life by showing simple acts of compassion?

I challenge you to be deliberate to invest in a child or teenager; give them heart felt compassion, encouragement, and your undivided attention for as little as 5 minutes a day for the next week and be ready to be amazed at how you will connect with them!

Wymore Family Summer 2009

It's funny how "Back to School" seems to traditionally mark "the end of summer". Summer officially begins June 21, so when the kids go back to school, it's hard to say "summer is over". Here's my current reality~ since we live in South Texas, it feels like it's "summer" 9 months out of the year, so summer doesn't ever really feel like it's over! My kid's are on a year around school schedule, so their summer break consists of 7 weeks; a time frame that speeds by! Over this time we had many good memories~ we ate lots of ice cream, swam in our swimming pool, the little ones indoor camped, we camped as a family, went to the beach several times, got projects done around the house, and just hung out together. I treasure my family and all the memories we make together. Each day I am reminded how blessed I am as I reflect on the time I am given to spend with the ones I love.

Eating Ice Cream!!! MMM-MMM Good!

Painting the trim on the house...

(actually we had a fun time saving the cash as DIY'ers!)

Indoor Camping

The boys...

The girls...

"Let's see how deep we can dig..."

"... ok, that's deep enough!"

Feeding the seagulls~

they actually will get the food from our hands!

Watch those fingers!!!

Play hard~ Sleep hard!

First Day of School! July 20, 2009

MEMORY VERSE Proverbs 16:18 (Message)

This weeks verse...

First pride, then the crash—

the bigger the ego, the harder the fall.

Provers 16:18 (Message)

So, TRUE!!!

MEMORY VERSE Proverbs 12:18

To continue on the same theme from the past couple weeks, the Lord has laid Proverbs 12:18 on my heart to learn and live. I've recently been put in situations of conflict where my mouth is tempted to sin (I pray Psalm 17:3b)... and times I actually have to clinch my teeth or bite my tongue not to say something I shouldn't (I've prayed Psalm 141:3). When I do speak, whether it's a situation of conflict or not, I need to be aware of my words I choose. I need to be sensitive about what I say, how I say it, and the timing of what is being said. This week's memory verse is one I choose to learn and live.

Reckless words pierce like a sword,

but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Proverbs 12:18 (NIV)

Prayer: Lord help me do everything, whether in word or deed, as a reflection of Your character all for your glory. Help me bring words of encouragement to the discouraged, hope to the hopeless, and words of love to the lonely as you cross people in my path. May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to You! You are my Everything! In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

MEMORY VERSES Psalm 17:3b & Psalm 141:3

Today I join my Siesta gal-pal, Beth in memorizing her Scripture selection for the next couple weeks, as I feel God prompting me to live these verses as well. I love how Beth posted at the end of her blog, "I'm not just looking to memorize, Sister. I'm looking to change. Scripture memory alone will just make you arrogant. Lapping up those Scriptures like they are the only spring in your desert will make you different." Amen, sista-gal-friend! Lord, I pray you change me for Your good through these verses!

"I have resolved that my mouth will not sin."
Psalm 17:3b NIV

"Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord;
keep watch over the door of my lips."
Psalm 141:3 NIV

Psalm 17:3b & Psalm 141:3 are for my *20*09* personal challenge

(Walk with the Lord #7) 28 & 29 and

LPM challenge verse 14

21 years ago today...

...I married my best friend!


July 16, 1988

ILYSFTHAAFTDDUP!
(I Love You
Straight From The Heart
Always And Forever
Til Death Do Us Part!)

TEXAS!

I got this as an email forward from my friend Melissa and laughed out loud! This is so, SO true for what us Texans experience in July! Can anyone else relate?

YOU KNOW YOU ARE IN TEXAS IN JULY WHEN. . .

• The birds have to use potholders to pull worms out of the ground.


• The trees are whistling for the dogs.


• The best parking place is determined by shade instead of distance.


• Hot water now comes out of both taps.


• You can make sun tea instantly.You learn that a seat belt buckle makes a pretty good branding iron.


• The temperature drops below 95 and you feel a little chilly.


• You discover that in July it only takes 2 fingers to steer your car.


• You discover that you can get sunburned through your car window.


• You actually burn your hand opening the car door.


• You break into a sweat the instant you step outside at 7:30 a.m.


• Your biggest bicycle wreck fear is, 'What if I get knocked out and end up lying on the pavement and cook to death?'


• You realize that asphalt has a liquid state.


• The potatoes cook underground, so all you have to do is pull one out and add butter, salt and pepper.


• Farmers are feeding their chickens crushed ice to keep them from laying boiled eggs.


• The cows are giving evaporated milk.

Ahhhh, what a place to call home.
God Bless The State of TEXAS!!!

Canyon Lake Camping Trip

We just got back a couple days ago from our "Wymore Family" annual camping trip at Canyon Lake. This year our camping time was cut short due to excessive heat-over 103F everyday- with heat index around 109F, extreme drought conditions which took away the campgrounds designated "swimming area", and a strict burn ban that took away our fun of making "smores" over a campfire. Thank God we have an air-conditioned travel trailer we spent time in when we weren't on the lake otherwise we would have all cooked! Here are some of our family memories of

"Canyon Lake, Texas~ 2009"

(Hill Country north of San Antonio)

The swimming area... all dried up, so our swimming was cut short! But we still had lots of fun on a rented ski boat swimming and tubing even though the lake level was low!

The sunshine of my life~ Kirk.

Hanging out in an air-conditioned trailer (below)... I know, not quite the "roughing it" camping, but hey, what can we say!

Joe turns 5 while we're on our camping trip!

We saw many deer. This one was right outside our trailer.

Music Monday! In God We Still Trust

This song is by Diamond Rio and it speaks to my heart as it may to you as well. I wanted to share it with my friends and loved ones as we come off of the 4th of July weekend. Think about the lyrics as you listen and watch the video... Enjoy!

Independence Day!

It is for FREEDOM that Christ has set us FREE... (Gal 5:1)

I thank God for our founding fathers who built this nation "one nation under God", for each person in the past who has fought to establish our freedom as a country, and for each person who is currently defending that freedom serving our country in different capacities.

Prayer~ Lord protect and comfort all who are currently serving in the military especially those who are unable to be with their families at this time; also, comfort and strengthen the families of our service members who have to endure the hardship of their loved one being separated from them as they serve. May God continue to bless America. In your Son's precious name, Jesus, I pray, Amen.

MEMORY VERSES Matthew 23:11-12 (NLT)

I absolutely love how the Bible is God's love letter to us giving instruction on how to "do life". Memorizing Scripture for me is a way to imprint the "how to's" on my heart so I can be right with God and bring Him glory. I am challenged each day to not just read Scripture, or memorize it, but to live it. Having Scripture fresh in my thoughts gives me God's supernatural power to live right in His sight.

I've selected two verses from Matthew for the next couple weeks that help me remember that God wants me to have a heart to serve Him and others. When I'm prideful, self serving/self centered and think I'm better than others, I WILL BE HUMBLED! (Been there, done that, don't like it)... But when I humble myself, being aware of others' needs, not focusing on myself, and keep a humbled heart before my Lord, God my Father raises me to a high position in His sight. I do not seek greatness in the sight of humans, but in the sight of my God. My memory verses from weeks 19 & 20~ Philippians 2:3-4 partner nicely with these verses I've chosen for weeks 26 & 27.

Matthew 23:11-12 (NLT)

11) The greatest among you must be a servant.

12) But those who exalt themselves will be humbled,

and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

Matthew 23:11-12 are for my *20*09* personal challenge

(Walk with the Lord #7) 26 & 27 and

LPM challenge verse 13

For Today...

Outside my Window... Clear blue sky, mid 90's, TROPICALLY HOT weather (heat index over 100)!

I am thinking... How blessed I am to have such awesome friends! Seriously!!! I reflect on my school friends, church friends, military friends, internet friends, neighbors, every person who has crossed my path truly has a special place in my heart! I'm blessed!

Personal growth I'm focusing on... Accountability, dreaming my dreams and staying encouraged, being content and thankful.

I am thankful for... Breathing!

From the kitchen... I have no idea! I need to make a trip to the grocery store.

I am wearing... Tye-dye tank, grey Capri sweat pants, and Birkenstocks

I am reading... The Bible, & just starting "Seven Pillars of Health" By: Don Colbert

I am hoping... The kids aren't too bored while they are on summer vacation, that I can get some painting done on our house today, and get the lawn (mostly weekds!) mowed today.

I am hearing... Sponge Bob Square Pants! (Kid's TV Program) & the dishwasher running

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...
Same ole, same ole...
swimming with the kids, laundry, house work, de-cluttering, maybe a little yard work, reading, go to church then have family movie night Sat PM... Kirk and I will be focusing on putting a huge dent in painting the trim on our house... we are working a couple hours every day this week and 4-5 hours each day this weekend.

Summer Vacation~ Kids are Indoor Camping

It's school summer vacation (as of end of May)... the two older kids (Kelsie and Andrew) are keeping busy with odd jobs, volunteering, and hanging out with friends. The two younger kids (Jessie and Joe) have been swimming, playing PS2, and bickering at each other... they complain occasionally, "we're boooooored!".

As something fun and different, we decided to let the kids (Jessie and Joe) "camp" in their bedroom. We set up the portable tent (we bought it at Academy several years ago for 20 bucks)... we even put "stars" on the ceiling. They have "camped" all week and seem to have enjoyed themselves!

Jessie and Joe, Indoor Camping

We'll be going real camping as a family in July up at Canyon Lake (near San Antonio, TX).

MEMORY VERSES Colossians 3:12-14 (NIV)

12) Therefore, as God's chosen people,

holy and dearly loved,

clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness,

humility, gentleness and patience.

13) Bear with each other and forgive

whatever grievances you may

have against one another.

Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

14) And over all these virtues put on love,

which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Prayer: Thank you Lord for Scripture and showing me how to live through your Word. Help me to clothe myself with You, reflecting your character, and help me be the person you have called me to be. Help me put love for you and others above all else. Thank you Lord for everything and for being my Everything! It's in Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Colossians 3:12-14 are for my *20*09* personal challenge

(Walk with the Lord #7) weeks 23, 24, & 25 and

LPM challenge verse 12

Music Monday! Stand in the Rain

I have always loved SuperChick! Their music rocks. This song is called "Stand in the Rain" ~ from the "Beauty from Pain" CD and has been a song that has ministered to me a number of times when I'm in a place of doubt, fear, sadness and overwhelm. I've shared "Beauty from Pain" with friends (sending them the SuperChick CD), because the ENTIRE CD is awesome.

Listen to the lyrics, absorb them,
and be strengthened!

"Weekend to Remember" Marriage Conference

Hi friends, Kirk and I attended our first "Weekend to Remember" in 2007 and since then have supported this ministry and it's mission to strengthen marriages. We just received this email and I wanted to share this awesome opportunity of *FREE ADMISSION (while available) that is extended to honor the Military. Whether your in the military or not and whether your marriage is strong, struggling, or somewhere in the middle, the "Weekend to Remember" conferences are worth the time! Check out the links below for more information. Kirk and I will be attending the Nov 13-15 San Antonio Conference... can't wait! Here's the email I received:

From: Glen Solberg
Sent: Tuesday, June 09, 2009 8:47 AM
Subject: Weekend to Remember - Free Registrations Available for Military Couples - register by June 30th for any 2009 conference

"Be strong and let us fight bravely for ourpeople and the cities of our God.

The LORD will do what is good in his sight."

2 Sam 10:12

FamilyLife has had a donor provide funding that will allow 10 military couples to attend every conference in our nation for FREE for the remainder of 2009. I thought that you may wish to take advantage of this offer to continue to invest in your marriage - OR - you may know of other military couples that this weekend would bless. Your personal invitation to the Weekend to Remember could be what the Lord uses to give hope and life to the military marriages around you. You are welcome to pass this invitation to as many military couples as you wish.

The first 10 military couples that register for each 2009 conference can register for free by using the Promo code "Military". You must register by June 30th to take advantage of this offer - but you can register for ANY conference between now and December 31st, 2009. You can see more information at www.FamilyLife.com/MilitaryMarriage .

Please call or email if you have any questions.

By God's Grace,
Glen Solberg

"I am the LORD, the God of all mankind.

Is anything too hard for Me?" Jeremiah 32:27

Glen Solberg - Event Ministries Promotion
Phone: 1-800-404-5052, ext. 2557
Email: gsolberg@familylife.com http://www.familylife.com/

*This offer is for FREE ADMISSION (hotel and travel costs are not included)

Music Monday! Whatever You're Doing

This song by Sanctus Real reminds me that when I go through the valleys of life, God is at work and I simply need to surrender to Him so He can do something "heavenly" ... larger than life. May this song also minister to you.

A FAVORITE RECIPE! Deluxe Baked Beans

Summer is a time for back yard B-B-Q's, family reunions, pot lucks, or simply hanging out with friends and family. This baked bean recipe has been a favorite of mine for over 25 years and when ever I make it, it's gobbled up and often, I'm asked if I'd share the recipe. I've taken this dish to many pot lucks and never have leftovers. I just made some "Deluxe Baked Beans" not too long ago and thought I'd share it on this blog. ENJOY!

Deluxe Baked Beans (Mike's Beans)

1/2 lb ground beef

10 slices bacon - chopped

1/2 cup chopped onion

1/3 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup Ketchup

1/4 cup B-B-Q sauce (whatever brand you like)

2 TB cup pure prepared mustard

2 TB cup molasses

1/2 tsp salt

1/4- 1/2 chili powder (depending on your taste for spicy)

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 (16 oz) cans kidney beans (drained)

1 (16 oz) cans butter beans (drained)

1 (16 oz) cans pork-n-beans

• Brown meats in separate pans; drain grease.
• Combine meats and chopped onion in large pot or sauce pan. Cook together until onion is tender. Remove from heat.
• Add sugars, sauces, and seasonings; mix well.
• Add beans, stiring gently.
• Bake at 350 degrees for one hour
  OR- what I often do, transfer the mixed beans to a crock pot for 4-6 hours on LOW.

Old friend, Mike Hannan found this recipe way back in 1981 and shared it with my family, at that time is was named something like "Best in the West Beans"... My mom still refers to them as "Mike's Beans" and now that my kids know the story of the beans, they also call them Mike's Beans.

MEMORY VERSES Romans 7:15 & 18 (NIV)

It's time again for my new memory verses... I have been so blessed by planting Scripture in my heart.

I selected these verses from Romans 7 because I currently struggle with knowing what I "should do", but "not carrying it out" and doing it... healthy eating, lack of exercise and lack of discipline in other areas of my life. My biggest struggle these days has been in not honoring God with my body. I find myself falling into the old habit of trying to do everything in my own strength and not in God's strength. I'm thankful God included these words in Scripture to show me that even the apostle Paul, a man who fervently served our Lord Jesus, also struggled with the battle of knowing what he should do, but not doing it. I am certainly not alone in my struggles and praise be to God He gives us His Word to teach us, rebuke us, correct us, and train us. So as I memorize Roman 7:15 & 18 over then next couple weeks, I will be encouraged that I am good company with my friend, Paul.

I do not understand what I do.

For what I want to do I do not do,

but what I hate I do. (vs. 15)

I know that nothing good lives in me,

that is, in my sinful nature.

For I have the desire to do what is good,

but I cannot carry it out. (vs. 18)

Romans 7:15,18 NIV

As I memorize these verses, I will follow them in my thoughts and heart by other Scripture that helps me know and remember that through all my struggles, Jesus is my everything and my victory, and "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength"... and, "in all things I am more than a conqueror through Him who loved me".

Romans 7:15 & 18 are for my personal challenge

(Walk with the Lord #7) weeks 21 & 22 and

LPM challenge verse 11

Memorial Day

Prayer:
Father, help me to not take our freedom for granted. Thank you for all those who have risked their lives for my freedom. Please be with those who have sacrificed so much to protect our country and our liberty. Intercede on behalf of those who are currently serving in the military, protect those who are in harm’s way, give comfort to each military member's family as their loved one is serving and bring peace to our world so that everyone can live in harmony to worship openly and freely. It's in Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

My husband, Kirk Wymore,
United States Navy (17 years service)
Thank you for your service!
I love youand am honored tobe married to you!!!

God's Chisel

This video is new on Youtube and worth a share! Many of you may have already seen it, but if you haven't, the next 9:03 minutes would be a great investment of your time to watch this video! ... sit back and enjoy!

God doesn't make junk...
YOU are a Masterpiece!

For we are God’s masterpiece.

He has created us anew in Christ Jesus,

so we can do the good things he

planned for us long ago.

Ephesians 2:10 -NLT

*For more information on this skit AND OTHER skits available by this very talented team, go to http://www.skitguys.com/

Girl Scouts Rock!

Girl Scout year 2008-2009 just finished for us this week! My sweet heart, Jessie, had a great "Daisy" year and will officially be a "Brownie" next school year.

I personally had a blast leading the Daisy Girl Scouts this year and will be taking on a bigger leadership role next school year as Troop Coordinator (all levels for our troop, #9691) as well as lead the Brownie Group of girls.

Jessie, 1st grade... my Daisy Girl!

...learning the

"Girl Scout Promise"

On my honor, I will try:

To serve God and my country,

To help people at all times,

And to live by the Girl Scout Law.

girls working on a craft project to earn a Daisy Petal (badge)

Through the year, the Daisy Girls earned their petals
through fun projects geared around the

"Girl Scout Law":
I will do my best to be
honest and fair,
friendly and helpful,
considerate and caring,
courageous and strong, and
responsible for what I say and do,

and to respect myself and others,
respect authority,
use resources wisely,
make the world a better place,
and be a sister to every Girl Scout.



Our year end celebration...
"Girl Scouts Rock!"

MEMORY VERSES Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)

3) Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit,

but in humility consider others
better than yourselves.

4) Each of you should look not only

to your own interests,

but also to the interests of others.

The above memory verses are for my personal challenge
(Walk with the Lord #7) weeks 19 & 20 and
LPM challenge verse 10

How do you eat an elephant?

I really don't care for this analogy since it has to do with consuming such a large portion (who eats elephants anyway?); God only knows how many calories eating an elephant would be, but you get the point!

I'm struggling these days with a couple frustrations~ first, my feeble attempts to healthy eating and exercise (I'm failing terribly)... I know what to do, I just haven't been faithful in doing it! Next frustration~ not getting a number of goals started that I once was motivated to do at the beginning of the year; I look at the "bigness" of many of my projects, and procrastinate even beginning them because I allow myself to over think them, as well as become distracted and overwhelmed by them. I love to accomplish goals I set for myself and fulfill my dreams and aspirations; that's the kind of person I am. I know that in order to be successful in what I set my mind to, I must break down my big (long-term) goals (like weight loss total or specific projects) into small (short-term) manageable goals.

O.K. That's what I'm committing to do~ break everything down and focus on short term goals and not the big picture. I will also be a better time manager. Woooohoooo! I feel better already now that I've blogged myself a pep talk....

One day at a time...

One hour at a time...

One minute at a time...

One manageable task at a time...

One calorie at a time...

ONE BITE AT A TIME!