BOOK REVIEW: Almost Heaven

This is the first book I have read by Chris Fabry but it definitely will not be my last. “Almost Heaven” is set in Dogwood, West Virginia. Billy Allman is the son of a miner who has a dream of having his own radio station, a little unusual for a young boy. Billy is faced with many trials but he always clings to God and the knowledge that if you trust in Him, He will get you through this. Billy believes he is called to get the word and music of the Lord out to the people of Dogwood, the people living in the holler.

Billy amazes people by his ability to take junk and make it work, but music is his dream, and boy can he play his father’s mandolin, he almost becomes a part of it when playing. His high school teacher introduces him to the right person who happens to be in a Bluegrass band. The band loves him and this gives Billy the opportunity to play and make a little money on the side. This opportunity has its benefits but it also has its drawbacks. Things happen that will change Billy’s life forever, but is it a good change? Does Billy ever start his radio station? How about Malachi, Billy’s angel what is his role in this story? The answers to all these questions and many more can be found in this wonderful novel by Chris Fabry.

MY THOUGHTS: Amazing; at first I was not sure about the angel input, but Chris does a wonderful job of putting it all together, and it flows so smoothly. I laughed and cried right along with the characters. This book reminds you how God can use ordinary or less fortunate people for His glory! Chris does a wonderful job of making you feel like you are right there with them. I cannot wait to read “Dogwood” and “Junebug.” I highly recommend this book to everyone.

Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.  The opinions I have expressed are my own. 
 until next time... nel

Random Rumblings...

Just thought I would drop in and let you know I am still kicking.  We had a wonderful time in Arkansas.  Busy as usual, well maybe a little busier than normal.  I think it has caught up with me the last few days, I seem to be dragging.  Didn't even have the energy to join in the memes that I usually participate in.  Hopefully next week we will be back at it! 

My whole schedule was thrown off while in Arkansas.  First of all I was sick one day and that through it off.  Then the plumber could not come out until the day we were supposed to head home, so we stayed 3 extra days, of course Eden and Cain thought that was good news. We finally have water but not hot, the hot water heater was leaking.  So we will replace it next month when we go for Christmas.  The new faucets and new toilet look so good.  I told Stan I really felt old, I got excited about a new toilet.  lolol.  It is sad how we take so much for granted.

We actually had our Thanksgiving dinner a week ago at my daughter's house.  I fixed Turkey and dressing, and all the extras.  Jan helped and Gina brought a couple dishes.  We had a house full.  There were 13 eating, Janice's dad and step-mom and her two kids joined us, and they brought Gina's mom and Doc's mom.  It was really good to see her, I had not seen her in a long time, she is still my mother-in-law, always will be.  She is a special lady!  Then Clint's mom and grandma stopped by and they ate with us.  Eden and Cain had their 3 grandmas and 3 of their great grandmas.  We had a lot of fun.  Good food, good family and friends, good fellowship, not much better than that! 

I am going to share a few pictures below.  I can't believe I did not take very many pictures and hardly any of my kids.  I bet I do better when we go back for Christmas. 

The leaves were really pretty while we were there.  I think they had a prettier fall than we did, however they were really glad it rained while we were there, it had been so dry.  Me not so much!  My son-in-law works for Arkansas Forestry, so during dry spells he is always on call.  This first picture is taken a few miles from their house.  It is such a pretty area. 

 This next one is taken on Cloud Mountain Road, the road going to their house.  Yes, it is fun if you meet a vehicle or if a calf gets in the road and you can't get around it.  Yep lots of fun! lolol.  But it is a pretty drive.  They are about a mile and a half off the blacktop.  They have quite a little farm started and hoping to start on their house in the next two years.  My son-in-law is a hard worker and I love it that they have goals.

This is a picture taken from their front porch across their field.  There is a pond to the right and Clint has it all fenced.  Their horses were out there this time, last time the cattle were in there.  They also have sheep.

And this is the newest addition to Lusk Farms, my grandpup, Dexter.  He is a 6 week old Bloodhound.  This is Janice's Christmas present that she asked her hubby for.  She wanted a dog that would grow up and be lazy and lay on the porch.  He is a handful, already spoiled.  And is so cute, he already has a few of the wrinkles on the sides of his face and his paws are huge.  The lady said he would probably be 110 lbs when he is grown, he will way more than my daughter...lolol. 

Hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving!  We have so much to be thankful for.

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love god, to them who are the called according to his purpose."  Romans 8:28

until next time... nel

Oh by the way, if anyone is interested in Precious Moments Figurines, we finally have ours inventoried and have them for sale.  They are all dated 2000 and before.  We have member pieces, chapel exclusives and regular ones.  We have approx. 1,000 pieces in stock.  If any of you are looking for anything just contact me.  Thanks!

Giving Thanks - Day 23

Today I am Thankful for Being Able to Work In My Yard.  We trimmed 2 bushes today that were totally overgrown.  Nothing like fresh air and a little physical work.

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 22

Today I am Thankful for running water!  We have not had water since March this year at our house in Arkansas.  Pipes froze and busted last winter.  We have been hauling water and having to heat it for washing dishes and taking showers at my daughter's.  It is a whole lot more fun when you are camping than everyday living.  It is amazing what we take for granted.  I had contacted several plumbers and finally we had one that returned our call.  And yes, today I am thankful for running water!

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 21

Today I am Thankful for Road Trips.  We took a road trip today with Janice and Eden Jade to pick up Jan's newest baby.  I now have a grandpup named Dexter.  He is a 6 week old Black & Tan Bloodhound.  What a face, talk about cute!  This is her Christmas gift from her hubby.  It was a wonderful day for a road trip!

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 20

Today I am Thankful for Thanksgiving Celebrations.  We had our dinner today and had such a good time.  We had a house full, Janice, Clint, Eden, Jan's dad Doc, his wife Gina, her two kids Erron and Justen, Doc's mom, Gina's mom, Clint's mom, and Clint's grandma, then Stan and myself.  Nothing better than good food, good friends and family and good times!

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 19

Today I am Thankful for Friday Flashback meme.  Linda at Mocha with Linda hosts this and it is a fun meme.  She gives us prompts and we have to search our memory back to share our thoughts.  If you have never joined us try it out - you might be surprised at what you remember also.


until next time... nel

Thanksgiving Past...

It is time for Flashback Friday once again. You know that time when we try to search our brain and remember things from long ago. If you would like to join in click on the button above or stop by and see Linda from Mocha With Linda to get the complete prompt.

This week we are remembering Thanksgiving Pasts – who would of thunk it? So off we go to the memory bank…

Thanksgiving was always a big deal in our family when I was growing up. If I remember right we usually ate at my Aunt Mildred’s and Uncle Colie’s. That was one of my mom’s two sisters that lived in Illinois also. They had a big house with a big basement that had an extra kitchen in it. There were booths to sit at just like a restaurant and then a pool table, card table and all kinds of toys for us kids to be entertained. We always had fun getting together with cousins.

I was in my early teens when that quit happening, you know at that age that you don’t pay any attention to your surroundings especially if it is family. But looking back I do remember something about my aunt putting the turkey in the oven and it did something to her back. Actually her back was already in bad shape, she just had not realized it. Several years later it was determined she had cancer.

I know that my mom and her other sister always brought all kinds of side dishes and goodies. I remember mom made loaves of yeast bread, oh that was so good, and the smell! I still have not run across her recipe, my luck she probably had it in her head. I also remember fruit salad that she made; basically it was fruit cocktail, marshmallows and coconut. I hated that stuff, but somebody must have liked it cause it was always gone. She also made a fruit cocktail cake, I ran across her recipe the other day, I may get brave and try it. Lol. I am sure mom made other things, just not sure what she made. I was never in the kitchen, when I tried to help I was always told maybe next time and next time never came.

And of course we had the usual Thanksgiving spread, Turkey, Mashed Taters and gravy, a vegetable or two, coleslaw, bread along with all the pies and baked goods. My Aunt Mildred was the pie maker… oh my gosh! She could of opened up her own bakery.

After we no longer went to her house, mom would fix Thanksgiving Dinner at home. And it was always good. Mom was a good cook. It was just a lot more fun with the big family.

Next week I will talk about Thanksgiving Dinners after I married. Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday.  We are having our dinner tomorrow, wish you were here!

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 18

Today I am Thankful for Holiday Baking.  I love the smell of pumkin bread and other treats baking.  I am beginning to get thinks ready for our Thanksgiving Dinner on Saturday.  Pumpkin Bread and a Pumpkin Roll are on the list for tonight, plus a hamburger casserole for supper.  The pumpkin bread is a recipe my mom has made for years, and you actually bake it in 1 lb. metal coffee cans.  It is a favorite in the family and it freezes really well also.  My son-in-law loves it when we are in town cause I usually cook for all of us.  A treat for them and one for me!  Patt does the cooking at home.  I love to cook!   Yes I would think Holiday Baking is the best!

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 17

Today I am Thankful for my pacemaker.  Without my pacemaker I would not be here.  Scary thought at times.  I was born with an electric short and it did not show up until 8 years ago.  Yeppers, today I am Thankful for my pacemaker!
Isn't technology wonderful!

until next time... nel

Wednesday Hodgepodge From Arkansas...

It is time for Wednesday Hodgepodge again. A time where blogging buddies reveal a little more about themselves and enjoy reading about others. It’s a wonderful way to meet new bloggy friends!

We thank Joyce at “From This Side Of The Pond” for hosting this fun meme. If you would like to join in just click her button on top (I can see it today Joyce) or her blog name above, grab the questions, and answer them on your own blog. When you are finished make sure you link back up at Joyce’s so we can all enjoy your answers. Would love to learn more about you!

So without further adieu (that’s for you Joyce), here are my answers:

1. What is the most amazing weather you’ve ever seen?

This was years ago, Janice was small, and we had stopped by my parent’s house here in Appleton, AR before we went on home. We lived next door to them. Anyway, it was a beautiful day, not a cloud in the sky; the sun was shining, when all of a sudden we heard something, it sounded like a herd of animals running. We were sitting in the back under their pavilion and we looked up and you could actually see the downpour coming down the road. The pavement was getting wet as it moved closer. It came as far as their front yard, Jan’s dad had run out to roll up the windows on the truck and he was soaked, but it never rained in the backyard. Really strange…

2. What is a sound or a noise that you love?

Now Joyce you really do not expect me to pick out just one do you?

I love the sound of my grandkids laughing. They have such fun together and Eden Jade has such an infectious laugh. There is nothing like hearing kids laughing. You know they are enjoying life and life is so short.

I also love the sound of Arkansas at night in the spring or summer. You can hear so much standing out in my daughter’s yard; the crickets chirping, frogs croaking, the bobwhites calling and the coyotes howling, every once in awhile you can hear an owl hooting. What wonderful sounds God has given us if we will only take time to listen.

3. Do you like seafood? What’s your favorite seafood dish?

I love shrimp! Boiled shrimp is the best, but I do like it fixed other ways also. I have an easy shrimp dip recipe that I love and yes I could make myself sick on it. There is a catfish house in Bee Branch that we go to when we are in Arkansas sometimes. The catfish and hushpuppies are to die for. They also have crab legs, but I am not fond of those, but bring on the crab cakes or stuffed crab, those are delicious. I like trout also as long as they take the heads off. There are a lot of dishes I have never tried and I would love to.

4. What part of your day requires the most patience?

Boy that is a hard one! Probably when I first get up requires the most patience for me. Patt, Stan’s niece, lives with us and she tends to be very talkative in the morning. I am really not a morning person. I like to get up, drink my diet coke, and grab something to eat, check my emails, read blog posts, and wake up before I start conversing with people.

5. What is your favorite shade of blue?

I actually like all shades of blue but Royal Blue is my absolute favorite!

6. Do people underestimate you?

At first glance of this question I thought No, but after talking to my hubby, I decided yes, maybe some people do underestimate me. I am not one to talk and brag about what I can do, so I think sometimes I surprise people with my creativeness and abilities along with skills.

7. When is the last time you had butterflies in your stomach?

It has been probably a week ago while we were still at home in Missouri. Every time my hubby walks up behind me and touches my neck it gives me butterflies and cold chills. And that is all I am going to say… I know hard to believe!

8. My own random…

Yeah, all of you knew what this random would be about. Lol. Having a great time in Arkansas. Cain and Eden are both growing by leaps and bounds. Janice will be looking up to Cain in a year or two; he is only 9 years old now. She has about 2 inches on him if that much. Eden is getting taller and really slimming down like her momma did. She loves to sing, there are a few country songs she can sing word for word, and she love to sing songs she has learned in school. But it really does this granny’s heart good when I hear her singing songs like “The B-I-B-L-E,” “I’m in the Lord’s Army,” and “Father Abraham.”

That’s All Folks…

Internet service is very limited so I apologize for not commenting this week. I promise I will catch up next week!

Until next time… nel

Giving Thanks - Day 16

Today I am Thankful for my hairdresser in Arkansas.  Yes, we drive 4 hours to get our hair cut.  Actually, we always set our appointment during the time we are visiting my kids.  We like the job she does so why switch.  We both had haircuts today and it feels so much better.  Yep I am Thankful for Carolyn, our Arkansas hairdresser.

until next time... nel

BOOK REVIEW - Within My Heart

In Tamera Alexander’s book “Within My Heart” Rachel Boyd is striving to keep their ranch running along with raising their sons after she lost her husband in a hunting accident.  Ben and Lyda Mullins, the owners of the general store in Timber Ridge Colorado have become quite close with the two boys and the young mom.

Rachel happens to be in the store picking up supplies when she is summoned to the storeroom finding Ben crumpled in the floor and Lyda hovering over him. Checking his pulse and listening closely she instructs Lyda to keep his head elevated and keep him still, she was going for the doctor.

The doctor was a young eligible bachelor who seems to rub Rachel the young way. Rand Brookston was nice enough but he was a doctor just like her father, wasn’t he? And she would never find another love, Thomas was her first love and her only, or was he?  Rachel checked at the doctor’s office, only to find his assistant Angelo standing at the worktable. When she realizes the doctor is not there she starts searching the shelves for medicine, in doing so she knocks a bottle off and it shatters as it hits the floor. Angelo assured her the doctor would not be angry and he would clean it up. Looking at the scattered glass, Rachel could not help but notice 2 wooden crates of lamp oil in the corner.


Rand Brookston seems to have problems of his own. After several attempts Angelo finally revealed the doctor’s whereabouts. He was at Miss Bailey’s on the other side of town, close to the saloons and gaming halls. Rachel was unsure of what his real business was there but she would find him. There were things that puzzled her about the doctor, for instance why he had enough lamp oil to last an entire year. Was darkness an issue for him?


Will Rand and Rachel ever enjoy each other’s company? Will Rachel ever open her heart to another man? Will Ben recover or will he need surgery? And if he does who will assist Doctor Brookston? Will Rachel and the boys ever be happy again? Find the answers to these questions and a lot more in this fast paced book.


MY THOUGHTS: I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Throughout the book you can feel and see how Rachel's faith in God helps her to overcome what she is faced with.  Tamera has a way of putting you right there with them. This is her 3rd book in the series “Timber Ridge Reflections,” however it is the only one I have read. This was complete by itself but I am looking forward to reading the previous two books. I highly recommend this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House a division of Baker Publishing Group as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Giving Thanks - Day 15

Today I am Thankful for my Church Family.  We attend a little Free Will Baptist Church at the edge of Springfield, MO.  When I moved to MO not only did I leave my family I left my church family and I was so afraid I would not find a country church like I was used too.  But the Lord Blessed and I did.  We are not big but we are family and while I do enjoy myself in Arkansas I miss my church family.
Today I am Thankful for my church!

until next time... nel 

Giving Thanks - Day 14

Today I am Thankful for my Crockpot.  Do you realize how many terrific meals you can make in a Crockpot.  Tonight we  are having Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs.  mmm Sounds good!  I love the fact you can put everything together in the morning and have a great supper at night without a lot of work.  Crockpots are wonderful.  Yep that is what I am Thankful for today.

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 13

Today I am Thankful for my lifestyle.  I am so glad that I do not have to work and that we can take off to Arkansas when we have the desire.  We do not have to make extensive plans, we just go.  For this I am Thankful!

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 12

Today I am Thankful for our little house at Appleton.  This is where my mom and dad lived at one time.  This is our home away from home in Arkansas. The really great thing about this is my grandkids can still come to granny's house.  And guess who is spending the night with us tonight?  You got it... Eden Jade and Cain Alan.   What fun!   Yep this I am Thankful for!

until next time... nel

A Standing Ovation To Our Veterans...

Flashback Friday is here again. This week we are remembering Veteran's Day and any personal impact veterans and wars have had on our lives. To get the complete prompt make your way over to Linda’s at Mocha with Linda and see what she is jogging our memories with this week. Then remember to link up so we can all enjoy yours.  

My Dad was a WWII Army Veteran.  He was in Germany.  He never talked about it at all.  I wish I would of asked him a few things.  Looking through some old papers I found where he received his purple heart.  He actually was shot in the foot by the enemy.  I knew that he was shot but I thought it was an accident.  After Dad had went to the nursing home one of the guys sent a picture to mom.  It was of four of the guys standing outside a bunker and one of them is looking the other way.  In his letter he said he had looked over towards some French men because they were hooping and hollering that the war was over.  I wish I would of asked him what he was feeling at that moment.  And I understand that alot of the military especially those that were in combat do not talk about it, but still I wish I would of asked.

My brother Tom was in Viet Nam.  It was a scary time.  I was around 12 or 13.  There was a period of time that we had the Red Cross looking for him because we had not heard from him.  They finally found him, he was in Sniper training and was on the front lines.  Not a good feeling.  He never talked about the war either.

There were alot of protests and riots that went on during the Viet Nam War.  I remember during 1967 and 68 when the presidential race was going on in Chicago there were alot of problems.  We lived 30 minutes from downtown and were told to stay in our homes and be safe because a protest walk was taking place on a road that we could see from our house.  It was a scary time.  We were lucky though the protesters never made it all the way to our neighborhood, they were disbanded before they got there. 

They were the only two of my immediate family that were in the military.  I do have a great nephew that is stationed in Toyko in the Air Force, and I have two nephews on my ex's side that have been to Afghanistan. 

I get teary eyed when I see someone in uniform.  I think about how they willingly put their lives on hold to stand up for our freedom.  I always try to at least look them in the eye and mouth the word Thanks!  We owe them so much more than we give.  God Bless them!

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 11

Today I am Thankful for all the Veterans that are fighting or have fought for our freedom!  Thank you to all the men and women who put their lives on hold so we can live in the USA.  For that I am Thankful!

until next time...nel

Giving Thanks - Day10

Today I am Thankful for Joyce and Wednesday Hodgepodge.  This meme will be alot of fun and I have already visited several new blogs.  It is a great way to meet new friends.  Thanks again Joyce!

until next time... nel

Debut of Wednesday Hodgepodge

Yeah for Joyce!  She has created a new meme called Wednesday Hodgepodge!  Alot of us were missing the Random Dozen that Lid at 2nd Cup of Coffee had graciously hosted for us, so Joyce decided to have a go at it.  If you would like to join us Joyce will post the questions on Tuesdays at her corner of cyberspace at From This Side Of The Pond and then on Wednesday mornings she will have Mr. Linky waiting for us.  It may take a little while to get the kinks worked out but she will be rolling them out before we know it.  The button above is still not working quite right, unless it is just on mine.  It will take you to her blog but the picture is not showing.

Well here we go:

1. Do you think you're more like your mom or your dad?
That is a hard one, the more I think about it the more I guess I am like my mom at least in a lot of ways.  My dad was always pretty quiet, never talked alot especially to strangers -definitely the opposite of me, did I ever mention I love to talk.  I did get my tempermant from my Dad though, it took a lot to make him mad.  He never let things get him down, and I guess I am alot like that.  I always believe you pick yourself up, you brush yourself off and continue on.  And it does take a lot to make me mad but if I get there hold on to your hats, cause she is going to blow.  Doesn't happen very often, the Lord and me worked that out quite awhile ago.  Amazing how He can change your life!


2. Do you like roller coasters?
No, not even.  I never have liked them.  I have been on a few small ones and even those I would have my eyes closed.  lol.  But now not such a good idea with the pacemaker.


3. How did you name your blog and do you now wish you'd thought about it maybe another five minutes before you hit publish? Would you change your blog title if it were not a huge pain in the derriere? (French makes everything sound a little nicer doesn't it?)
I guess my title is kinda boring, but I kinda like it.  I am glad to have the Fastenau name... Have I ever mentioned life is good!  Alot different than the first time around!

4. What is the best wedding gift you received? Not married? Didn't get any gifts? Then what is the best wedding gift you've given?
Wow, we got several nice gifts.  We got several frames and a couple of photograph albums those are always great to have especially for a photo addict.

5. What is the one bill you most hate to pay?
It bites me to pay the Dish bill.  Part of that is because I very seldom watch TV and the other part is because there is never anything worthwhile on.


6. Is the glass half full or half empty?
Half Full of course.  Life is what you make it!  If you have the Lord in your heart that glass should be half full or full!


7. What is your favorite word? Okay okay. Calm down. How about one of your favorite words?
I think Arkansas - If were talking Arkansas then I am usually planning a trip to see my daughter and grandkids!  And yes we are on the road again come Friday!  So definitely Arkansas!


8. Now, this is where you insert one random thought of your own.
The thing that keeps going through my head is how glad I am that Joyce started this Wednesday Hodgepodge.  You rock Joyce!

Well that is it folks, hope you enjoyed yourself!  I had fun!

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 9

Today I am Thankful for all of my blogging buddies and friends.  We are a different breed.  We laugh with each other, wipe tears together, and pray earnestly for each other.  You can't get much better than that.  We read each others posts and think "wow I know what they mean," or "yes I remember that."  Most of us will never meet in this walk of life but I really feel like one of these days there will be a bloggy reunion on the other side!  Praise God!



until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 8

Today or I should say tonight (running late)  I am thankful for my friends and family.  I have alot of friends who are very dear to me along with family.  Nothing like family! 
Growing up there were always family activities going on, camping during the summer and get togethers during the winter.  And I have a few cousins that I am partial to. Debi, Cheryl and myself spent alot of time together growing up, but my cousin Kathy is my partner in crime.  And I do miss her very much!  There are others I miss also but Kathy and I were like the sisters neither one of us had.  We both grew up with brothers.  So yes tonight I am Thankful for family and friends!

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 7

Today I am thankful for my salvation.  Without Him, we are nothing.  I look back over my life and think of how He saved me from myself.  He has always had my best interests at heart, wish I could say the same.  I am so glad that when I was running there were still Christian people praying for my salvation.  They did not give up!  And finally one Sunday morning I realized I could not do it alone anymore!  And I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior!  So if you have someone that you are praying for, do not give up!  It is doing more good than you will ever know!  Praise The Lord!

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?   Psalm 27:1


until next time... nel

Thankful - Day 6 and TSMSS - The McKameys

I am going to combine two posts today.  One of them is for the meme Then Sings My Soul Saturday over by Amy at Signs, Miracles, and Wonders  and the other one is the Giving Thanks Challenge over at South Breeze Farm.  If you would like to join us at either one just click on their blog name, and don't forget to link up so we can all enjoy your thoughts.

Today I am Thankful that we have gospel singing groups that are not afraid to share the story of Jesus Christ through song.  We had such a good time at The McKamey concert last night!  They were so good, I laughed, I sang and I wiped tears.  They are so real and so in love with the Lord!  As we left Peg was at the door hugging necks and speaking to everyone, you don't get much more country than that!  Just good people!

The two songs I picked out really touched my heart last night.  The first one is "Right On Time."  This one really spoke to my heart, He is always Right On Time.  I could not find a current clip of the song, but this is a good one, listen to the message Peg has.


This one is "The Shepherd's Point Of View."  This is a beautiful song.  How many times if we looked back only one set of footprints we would see.


Here are a few pictures I took at the concert.

If you like Southern Gospel and ever get a chance to see them I highly recommend it!

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 5

Today I am Thankful that we can worship as we choose.  My life is not in danger for worshipping our Lord!  I can worship him through preaching, praising or song.  I can read my Bible and study God's word as I please.  And tonight we will praise Him in song.  Headed to the McKamey Concert!  Ain't God Good?

until next time...nel

And The Vote Is Counted...

It is time for Flashback Friday again. Linda over at Mocha With Linda hosts this fun meme. Some of the prompts that she provides I can go on and on about but some not so much. And this week is a not so much week. If you would like to join in stop over by Linda’s and get the prompt for this week then make sure you link up so we can enjoy yours too.

This week we are remembering politics and voting. As I said this is going to be a short week. To be totally honest with you, I know my mom was not registered to vote, and I do not think my Dad was either. I had never really thought about it until now. I can’t really remember them discussing politics. I do remember them being upset when President Kennedy was shot. And I remember a few remarks about peanuts when Jimmy Carter was president, but that is all. As for myself I registered to vote when I turned 18 and have voted in the majority of the elections since then. We discussed voting alot in school, and I had a History teacher that really encouraged us to register to vote as soon as we could.  I think it is our duty as Americans to exercise our right to vote.

until next time… nel

Giving Thanks - Day 4

Today I am thankful for my daughter. She is my one and only. Not only is she my daughter she is one of my best friends.  It seems like yesterday she was that little girl that loved to sit in my lap and chatter up a storm or make faces at her daddy. 

Her and I were discussing Eden and things that she says and comes up with, and I had to remind her that she was the same way when she was little, however Eden is a little more outgoing than her momma was.  Anyway I reminded her about a particular incident where we had went to a hamburger stand called Fat Willies, you ordered at the counter then you waited in the car.  When our order was ready Janice went back up to the counter with me.  After I paid the lady I asked her for some more napkins, and her reply was "I'm sorry I should of given you more since you have a little one with you."  Now I want you to remember Jan was around 3 years old and she stuck her foot out and put her hand on her hip and said, "Oh they are not for me, they are for my momma, she is the messy one in the family."  I thought the lady was going to die laughing and she said "out of the mouths of babes!"  So as I reminded Jan she agreed Eden bless her heart comes by it honest.

It seemed like life passed us by so quick before I knew it she was over playing with the barbie dolls and interested in the boys. 

She was 22 when Clint and her married.  They were high school sweethearts, but went their separate ways, he had some wild seeds to sow.  Her getting married was hard, we had lived just us for a couple of years.  She helped me get through some really hard times after her dad left.  But I was so happy for her.  I actually could not even help her get dressed because every time we looked at each other we cried, and it was doing a number on her make-up.  When I went home that night after getting the church cleaned up and put back in order, she had left me a note thanking me for everything.  And she had wrote I will call you tonight tomorrow.  I had to laugh, I still have the note!

And all of a sudden time passed and she is the momma.  I am so proud of her, Eden was a special needs baby until she was almost two.  Jan had to feed her through a tube and never once did she complain or throw up her hands. She just did what she knew she had to do.  And even now she is working full time and taking care of two kids and her household along with her hubby and on top of that working on her bachelor's degree online.  She continues to amaze me.  I love to sit back and watch her interacting with Eden.  She is such a good mom.  And I am so proud of the beautiful lady she has become.  And extremely thankful for her!

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks - Day 3...

Today I am thankful for my other half, Stan.  He is my best friend, my soul mate and my lover all rolled into one.  You can't get much better than that. You know he has to be a special kind of guy to put up with me. 

Part of you have heard this story before, but the newbies have not.  We actually were friends at Yahoo Personals for awhile before we met in person.  I told him one weekend I would not be online because I was going with my cousin to Eureka Springs and his response was, "OK why don't I come and take you out for dinner.'  And my thoughts were, 'Oh my gosh what am I going to do now,' and I think I finally said OK sounds like fun.  And the rest is history...  we dated for almost a year and then married.

He has added so much to my life I cannot even begin to tell you everything.  He cares for my daughter and grandkids as his own and there is no way I can make you understand how much that means to me.  He enjoys spoiling me, I have to get after him about that sometimes.  But above everything else I am most thankful for his love and for being my companion!  I cannot imagine life without him!

until next time... nel

Random Thoughts...

Just a little Random thinking.  Kinda scary huh?  Well here we go...

1. Yep, we did our part, we voted!

2. And I think everyone in the town of Willard was voting also, which is good, I am not complaining. It actually was wonderful. We were in line for an hour before we could cast our votes. The line was actually out in the parking lot, too cool! I have never ever seen a turn out like this!

3. My hubby took me out to breakfast before we voted; good thing or I would of starved to death… yeah right!

4. Then we did all of our monthly shopping, Sam’s Club, Wal-Mart and Dillon’s. Do you ever shop at Sam’s? We get a lot of our paper supplies there, and a few canned items, along with coffee among a few other items. But we have started buying our meat there. It has been really good! We have been very happy with it.

5. I am sure most of you know I enjoy photography. I am putting together some greeting cards and will be showing them in the future. I included a few of them in the giveaway that Betty won. I actually order the card stock from a Photography Shop. The photo gets slipped in and fixed where it does not move then I fold the cards, add an envelope and put them in a storage bag. They are note cards with a space on the back that I write where the picture was taken. I will share them when I get them together.

6. My hubby used to sell Precious Moment Figurines at shows and flea markets. Needless to say our extra garage is overcome with boxes. Our most recent project is to organize all the collectibles along with an inventory, and then we plan on either placing them on e-bay or opening an online store, where I can do something with my photos also. All of the figurines are retired pieces, and we are listed as a secondary market dealer at the Precious Moment Chapel in Carthage MO. We have received several phone calls, but did not have an inventory of what he had. I told him this is something that we needed to do now. Plus I am planning on using the small section of the garage where the lady before had a beauty shop as a craft room. My Space! Doesn’t that sound heavenly! lolol.

7. Soooo if you or you know someone that is looking for Precious Moments figurines, send them our way! I am not finished entering the inventory into the computer yet, but we are up to 860 items. Yeah I think a store is a good idea.

8. Did I mention I miss the Random Dozen? I understand why Lid is not hosting it anymore, but I sure do miss it. Trying to come up with 12 random things is hard, I have no idea how she did the questions each week.

9. I need to get back working on my genealogy, which that is always a good cold weather project, so I am sure I will pick it back up. On my dad’s paternal side, I have not been able to get beyond my great-great-grandpa. It is like there is a brick wall there. And on my mom’s paternal side I cannot get passed her grandpa. I have to look at that closer. I am thinking maybe someone else raised him. It can be like a big puzzle when you really start working on it, sometimes the pieces are hard to fit, but it is so interesting.

10. As most of you know because I have mentioned it before, we are going on a little road trip this weekend. Friday night we will be in Branson. Looking forward to seeing The McKamey’s. They get so excited and are so on fire for the Lord!

11. I have a question for anyone older than me, is there a reason when you hit your fifties all of a sudden every bone in you hurts. And for some reason the floor is just so much farther away than it used to be. And speaking of farther away, I think they moved the stairs too. They are farther apart and steeper than they used to be. lol.

12. You know what though, I will take any day getting older compared to the alternative. I am not ready to die, let me explain that, I am not ready to die because I do not want to leave some of my earthly family and friends. I know most of them I will see again but I hope that the Lord gives me the opportunity to witness to those who do not know Him as their personal savior; I want to see them in Heaven on the other side. What A Day That Will Be! Can You Imagine?

Well peeps, I think I made it to 12, and I am finished. Ok, hold the applause down. Don’t get too excited! Hope all is well in your world and you have a blessed week!

“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”                                     Philippians 4:19

until next time... nel

Giving Thanks... Day 2

Today I am thankful for my grandson Cain.  He has brought so much to our lives.  He is nine years old now but he was only 3 when he joined our family with his Dad.  He was the ring bearer at their wedding.  He is such a happy go lucky kid.  Very inquisitive about things, loves to learn about new things and has an opinion about everything.  He has grown by leaps and bounds. 

I love the picture of him eating an ice cream cone.  He said that was the first one he had ever had.  And it was funny because when we handed it to him he just sat it on the table and didn't know what to do with it. 

Then Jan picked it up and held if for him.  It was cute.

For several years Cain has played baseball, but this year was his first year on the peewee football team.  I think he may have found his niche.  He actually seems to pay attention when he is on the field and even on the sideline.  We went and watched several games this fall and of course took several pictures.  He looks so big in his uniform.  His little sister Eden thinks her bubba is something special.  She looks up to him and is his biggest fan.

So yeah today I would like to say I am thankful for my grandson. 

until next time... nel

We Are Thankful For...

After much prayer I decided to take on this special meme for the month of November.   I happened to run across it in my friend Jewel's valley.  If you get a chance stop by and see her at Down In My Little Valley.

This meme is hosted by Leah over at South Breeze Farm.  She is challenging us to post everyday something that we are thankful for.  It can be a complete post or just a few words whatever you prefer to do.  Please feel free to join us if you would like to.

Today I am Thankful for:

My grandbaby Eden.  She is our miracle baby.  I look at the pictures of her in her Minnie Mouse outfit and think back four years ago when she was in NICU and they are hard to look at without tears forming much less comprehend that it is the same kid.  You can read more of her story here:  Eden Jade's Story  or you can look at her pictures here: Eden's Hospital Pictures.
Yes today I am Thankful for Eden Jade.

until next time... nel

Did I Ever Mention I Love Pictures...

I received these late yesterday, just had to share them with all of you.  The first two are my daughter Flo alias Janice.  I guess if her job doesn't work out she can attach these pictures to her resume and apply at Progressive Insurance.  She might not have any training on the job but at least she could look the part.

And then there is Minnie, she didn't win the contest but she is a winner in my book!  Look at that hand on the hip, you would think she has had her picture taken before.



Nothing makes my day like getting pictures of my kids when we can't be there

Hope everyone had a wonderful Halloween. 

We went to church last night, but we did have about 7 trick or treaters when we got home.  Love seeing the kids dressed up and enjoying life!

Speaking of enjoying life, we are off to Branson Friday night.  We are going to see the McKameys.  They are a Southern Gospel group, I posted three of their songs about a month ago.  Looking forward to a fun evening.  We are planning on going up Friday morning and coming back Saturday afternoon.  There is a quilt/fabric shop on the main drag that seems to always call my name when we are in town.  Shhhh  don't tell my hubby!  

until next time... nel