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!

Music Monday! Perfect People

My sister, Traci, was visiting from WA state over the past couple weeks and just left yesterday to go back home. We had a great time visiting and Traci soaked as much of the sunshine as she could during her short time here. While visiting, Traci had a couple job interviews and was offered a new position that she's accepted starting next August. She's a Middle School Language Arts teacher and has had the desire to move to south Texas since she visited in April of last year (2008). Just this past December, she made the decision to pursue career opportunities in the Corpus Christi area and I'm so excited that she took this step of faith and will be moving down very soon.

Over 2008, Traci had experienced a number of personal challenges and trials, but God in His love and sovereignty has been turning her hardships and trials around with His favor and blessing all for His glory. It's so exciting to see (and experience) how God restores, renews, and heals those who seek Him diligently... exactly what my sister has been doing and God has been blessing her tremendously. (earlier post)

This past week, both my sister and I discussed our personality characteristics of "perfectionism"... a characteristic that can be very negative. My own "perfectionism" in life has often left me feeling like an inadequate failure never being able to measure up. As I've grown my relationship with Christ and let go of my need to be perfect, He has set me free. I constantly thank God that He does not expect me, my sister, or anyone to be "perfect". My sister and I have heard this song on the radio a number of times while she was visiting, and I wanted to share it as a dedication to my sister and any other "perfectionist" out there in blog land. May this song minister to you as it has ministered to my sister, Traci and I...

There's no such thing as perfect people
There's no such thing as a perfect life
So come as you are, broken and scarred
Lift up your heart and be amazed
And be changed by a perfect God

Perfect People by Natalie Grant

Cinco de Mayo

Living in South Texas has exposed us to the Mexican culture and we've very much enjoyed learning about our neighbors to the south...(Mexico is about a 3 hour drive from Corpus Christi).

Yesterday was Cinco de Mayo, and besides eating Mexican Cuisine, we enjoyed a Ballet Folklico performance by our daughter, Jessie (age 7). She's been involved in a dance group (K-3 grade) through her grade school learning a traditional dance that her group performed last night at the school's PTO meeting. (A small snip-it below)

Jessie, age 7

Music Monday! Dreams

This song by Michelle Tumes inspires us to have vision, faith and power to believe in our dreams. God plants dreams and desires in our hearts to give us hope and to grow our faith in Him. Have faith and power to believe in your dreams!



I'm a huge "Dreamer"!How about you?
Think about this~ What "dream" do you have right now that God has planted in your heart?

MEMORY VERSES 1 Peter 1:14-16

With my family in town all last week, I neglected to memorize a verse for the week. My whole routine was thrown off and my quality time with God in His Word was totally neglected. With that in mind, I've chosen several verses out of the book of 1 Peter to memorize to make up for last week and include for this week. I love these verses because they tell me God called my to be "holy" in all I do... because He is holy! Verse 14 also reminds me that I need to guard myself not to default back to my sinful nature (like what I lived when I lived in "ignorance"- before Christ was the center of my life). How easy that happens when we allow ourselves to compromise our quality time with the Lord seeking Him regularly. Been there, done that!

1 Peter 1:14-16 (NIV)

14) As obedient children, do not conform to the

evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.

15) But just as he who called you is holy,

so be holy in all you do;

16) for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."

(quoted from Leviticus 11:44-45)

Verse 9 of LPM Challenge

Week 16, 17 & 18 of personal challenge
(Walk with the Lord- #7)