Walk With The Woods'

I Am A Procrastinator

2010-06-22T05:46:00.000-07:00

I got my first speeding ticket on March 24 of this year - in a school zone, no less and in front of the kids school with the police officer right behind me in the pick up line. Not good to say the least. At least there is the option of defensive driving. I figured thirty or forty or maybe fifty bucks plus a free meal and the ticket would be gone.
Not so fast. A lot has changed since I received my last ticket in October of 1994. No longer do you just have to pay the cost for defensive driving and have it done. You have to pay certain fees at the courthouse in the city where you received the ticket before you can consider taking defensive driving. So I did that - to the tune of $132.00 BEFORE Defensive Driving! I couldn't believe it. Oh well, I thought. I have 90 days to take this course and I'll still have it taken off my driving record. It would cost me basically the same expense as paying the whole ticket, but in taking DD the ticket would be taken off my record. And now I could just take it online, be done with it, and the ticket is gone. Not so fast.
Fast forward to today, the morning of June 22. You know what today is. Of course, I just told you. Today is June 22, the 90 day deadline to turn in my Defensive Driving certificate saying that I've completed the course and get it turned in at the courthouse. No worries - I can get that done today. No so fast - again. I could get it done today, except 16 years after my last ticket, you now have to turn in a certified copy of your driving record along with your completed DD certificate. Guess how long that takes? 2-3 weeks is the best case scenario - or so it looks like. I will find out in a bit if I can go down to the DPS and get a copy of my driving record today. I don't have my hopes up. It is a government agency, and I don't suspect that they'd do anything near that quickly.
So here is my confession. I am a procrastinator. I had 90 days to complete this DD course and get a copy of my official driving record. 90 days. 3 months. 13 weeks. You know what that is. You can fill it your word. My word is ridiculous. Lazy. PROCRASTINATOR. No excuse. I'm to blame. What can I say? I didn't even read all the info I got the day I got the ticket 3 months ago. I didn't know I needed my driving record to turn in with a completed DD certificate - until today. I read it about 30 minutes ago.
I'm sure there's a life lesson to be learned from all this. More than that, I'm sure God has something to remind me of that I've probably reminded my kids of more times than I care to count. I'm a procrastinator. I'm lazy. I put off something that I had 90 days to do until the day it was due - much like a kid who puts off a homework assignment that he has a month to complete. And now, as a result of my slothfulness, I will go down to the City of Hutto and pay the remaining $58.00 balance and have a moving violation on my driving record for the first time in my married life - over 15 years. Way to go John! I can only hope and pray that it's at least that long or longer before the next moving violation. posted by John, the procrastinator

Family Updates!

2009-09-06T09:20:00.000-07:00

Well, school has been in session for 2 weeks now and it seems that our 3 oldest have adjusted quite nicely! I'm thankful to our great God for their teachers. The kids really like them, and they all seem to be awesome teachers. Our baby girl is excited to be starting preschool next week. We went to "Meet-the-teacher" night for her a few nights ago and she is very excited to begin. She still seems so young to be in the pre-K class. She has a wonderful teacher this year, and we are excited to see how God is going work in her little life.

We also started Upward soccer. Bradley and Brenna are playing again this fall and they are excited to be on the soccer field again. We love the Upward organization and are glad to have the kids playing. John is helping coach Brenna's team this season and she loves that. Of course, this subject came up at the dinner table last night and Bradley told his daddy that he was going to help coach his team next year. Brenna chimed in to say, "Daddy, we'll see if you do a good job and then you can coach my team again next year." (or something like that). That girl is very funny, and I never know what she might say. They played their 1st games this past Saturday. Each of them scored 2 goals. Bradley's team won even though they don't keep score in Upward. Brenna's team did not win, but she played very well too. I missed their games because Brandon woke up sick that morning and I had to take him to the dr. So, I'll have to see them play next week. I've posted a couple of pics below of our Soccer players!

Bradley's ready to go!!

Cute Brenna is ready to play!

The other day, Bethany and I decided to make play dough. She loves helping in the kitchen, so I thought this would be a fun activity to do while the others were at school. She helped pour in the ingredients and stir them up. We added pink coloring which is what she asked for. The girl loves pink. After the play dough was done and had cooled off, she sat at the table and played for a long time. We'll definately be doing this again! Here are a few photos of her helping in the kitchen!

Stirring the dough!

Look at what we made!!

Aunt Janie gave us this play dough ice cream maker at Christmas time (I think). The kids have spent so much time sitting at the table playing and playing with this. What a great gift! Bethany tried it out with our homemade pink play dough!

1st Day of School

2009-08-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

Well, we've survived the 1st day of school! Brandon started his 4th grade year. Bradley started his 3rd grade year. And, Brenna started Kindergarten. They all woke up yesterday morning ready to go. After getting ready and eating breakfast, John had a short devotion and prayer time with them. He took them to school and walked them inside since it was their 1st day, and since Brenna is new at this "going to school" thing. They took Brenna to her class first. John has struggled with Brenna starting Kindergarten, so there were some tears. No tears from Brenna, all from Daddy. Brenna walked in like she knew exactly what to do and ended up having a great 1st day. It was even better because her friend Jordan is in her class, so she had someone to play with that she already knew.

John then took Brandon and Bradley to their rooms. They are on the same hall, which I like. As they entered their hallway, their classmates were sitting in the hall waiting until time to go into their classrooms. As Brandon passed some of his classmates, a girl who was in his class last year, said something to him that was not very nice. Brandon sat down in the hall with his class, while John walked Bradley on down the hall to his room. When he got back, Brandon was in tears. John took him into the bathroom to talk to him and to encourage him. Before John left the school, he went back by his room to check on him, and he seemed fine. When John got home and told me about that, this momma's heart was broken to know that someone had made fun of my son on the first day of school. It was one of those moments where I felt completely helpless. I prayed God's protection upon him and asked that God would bless him with a good day in spite of what the girl said to him. And, I'm so thankful that God did that very thing. Brandon went on about his day, not letting what the girl said bother him. I was super proud of him for handling it well. Thank you Lord for taking care of my children when I am not there with them.

Here is Bradley before leaving home on his 1st day of 3rd grade. He had a wonderful day. He also has a great teacher, and we are so thankful for that.

Brandon is ready to head to school. He looks so big in this picture. I can't believe that he is now in 4th grade.

Brenna was so ready for Kindergarten. She's so funny!

Posing with Daddy before leaving for school!

Off they go. I love this picture!

My baby girl is 4!

2009-08-22T20:50:00.000-07:00

Well, I've gotten a bit behind on my blogging this summer. There are many other things I could blog about, but instead of trying to go back and catch up, I decided to just start with now. One of the most recent things that has happened in our family, is that our baby girl, Bethany, turned 4 this month. I still can't believe that she is that old. She tells me often "Mommy, I not a baby!" I assure her that she is not a baby girl any more, but a big girl.

John took her to Build-A-Bear, which is a birthday tradition at our house that all our children really look forward to. She decided on the Hello Kitty which you will see in the picture below!

Here's the silly birthday girl posing with her cake!

My little birthday girl!

Bethany with her Papa John!

I'm so thankful to God for the gift of this precious little girl! I love you Bethany!

The Summer of 1989

2009-07-31T05:52:00.000-07:00

What a summer it was. The summer of 1989. The direction of my entire life changed that summer. I changed schools, I changed majors, and my career path changed forever. Much of it transpired with a trip down Tenneryville Road between Longview and White Oak that June 17 Saturday evening. I had just finished my sophomore year in college, and God put a song on the radio that He used to speak to me so clearly about the direction of my life. I wanted to go into some kind of field that had to do with math - most logically accounting. God had other plans. And when Steve Camp's song "Don't Tell Them Jesus Loves Them" came on the radio that evening, I finally surrendered to what I knew God was calling me to long before I actually gave in. He wanted me to be His servant as a minister of the Good News of Jesus Christ; and do it for a living. All my excuses were no longer legitimate; and I had no choice but to obey. And I'm glad I did. The next morning, June 18, I made that calling public that God was calling me into the ministry; and six weeks following (July 30), I was licensed as a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. One month later I was enrolled at East Texas Baptist University (thank you Don Page), and the rest is proverbial history.
Now here I am 20 years later and still on the journey. I am honored and overwhelmed at where God has taken me and what He has done through me. I am privileged to be the husband of a great wife, Jennifer, and four beautiful adopted children (Brandon, Bradley, Brenna, Bethany). I serve at a great church, and God continues to faithfully use me. Amazing. 20 years of ministry. Some words that describe the journey so far: incredible, painful, overwhelming, rewarding, children, mentors, salvation, camps, Longview, Breckenridge, Paris, Pflugerville, Kelly, Jonathan, Jenny, love, friends, faithfulness, joy, tears, hope, family, eternal, life, fun, investing, family, God. The list could go on and on and on.
God doesn't call the equipped. He equips the called. I'm living proof of that. Thank you God for 20 great years of ministry - for using me beyond my wildest dreams or expectations. I pray for 20 or more years of faithful ministry to come. May I be found faithful to the call - so that when the summer of 2029 rolls around, I can look back at the summer of 2009 the same way I look back today at the summer of 1989 to the present - with no regrets and great anticipation. You are a great God, and I love you.

Happy 8th Birthday to my sweet boy, Bradley!

2009-06-26T21:36:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrated my baby boy's 8th birthday. What a fun day it was for him, one he will never forget. He started his day with his best friend Austin. John took them to Austin's Park and Pizza where they played mini golf, rode bumper boats, rock climbed, played video games, hit in the batting cage, ate pizza, etc., etc., etc. What an awesome time they had together. Then, John took Bradley to Build-A-Bear, which has become a birthday tradition for our girls and now for our boys. This was Bradley's 1st time to go so it was extra special. He's been planning since January which animal he would get and how he would be dressed.

After that, they came home for supper. Bradley chose chicken-n-dumplings for his birthday meal, Yum!! We ate, opened some gifts, sang Happy Birthday, and then enjoyed birthday cake. Hope you enjoy the photos of Bradley's Big day. Oh yes, he also got a new Longhorn t-shirt from Papa John, some new swim goggles from his brother, and an MP3 player from his dad, sisters, and I.

Bradley and Austin cooling down on a bumper boat ride!

Soaked!!

Bradley dressing his puppy in a Dallas Cowboy uniform. It even had a helmet and cleats! Too cute!

Bradley and John at Build-A-Bear with his football dog "Max".

This year, Bradley wanted a simple cake that he could put his Lego creations on top of. I thought that would definately be easy for me. He built this pirate ship, shark, and treasure chest. They made great cake decorations!

Happy Birthday Bradley! I love you and I'm very proud of you! I'm so thankful God gave you to me.

The Young, The Old, and Between

2009-06-25T21:25:00.000-07:00

My day started with a 10 a.m. appointment with 7-year old Kacey Stewart. This beautiful 2nd Grader to be wanted to visit with me about becoming a Christian. (What a great job I have to be able to get to visit with children about the most important decision they'll ever make in their life). After about 45 minutes, Kacey left my office with a helpful book to help her continue on the journey to becoming a Christian. It won't be long, Kacey. God is working in your life.
Immediately following that appointment, I had to go make an unexpected hospital visit to another beautiful child. This one; however, is only 2 years old and has cancerous tumors on her brain and brain stem that are terminal. Unless God miraculously intervenes (and I know He can), little Amber Rendon will leave this earth for her eternal home very, very soon. Would you please pray for God's best for Amber and for God's sufficiency and strength for parents Virginia and Art and the extended family? Thanks.
I made it back to the church just after 2 p.m. for our first "Seize the Summer Service Project" with our pre-teens. After some team-building activities, we went to DQ for a quick blizzard fix and then on to the Pflugerville Care Center to play bingo with the residents there. All of them elderly and many of them hurting, it was a time to love, encourage, teach, learn, and play. What a blast it was to help these beautiful senior adults in an afternoon game of bingo. We were able to escort them from their room and back to their room. My 'tweens did a great job as did my Children's Ministry Assistant Kristie LaGrone.
Here are a few life lessons God reminded me of today: (1) Children are precious to God. (2) Life is valuable to God. (3) Life begins and ends with God. (4) I am very blessed and have much to be thankful for. (5) I am not in control. (6) When all I can do is pray, praying is enough because God is enough. (7) Pre-teens love ice-cream (and other assorted DQ treats). (8) Senior adults are serious about BINGO! (9) People all around me are in great need. (10) A person's greatest need - young, old, or in between, is Jesus. (11) I am helpless to help people in need on my own; but I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. (12) It is more blessed to give than to receive. posted by John

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-25T13:47:00.000-07:00

We had a great Father's Day! We started our day with a Celebration service at our church. We've been anticipating the completion of our new Worship Center, and Sunday was our 1st service in our new building. What an amazing time of Worship it was.

We came home to a yummy lunch that was waiting for us! Gotta love Crock Pots!!! After lunch, the kids gave their Daddy some new board games that he loves! One of them, he's not played since he sas a kid. It's fun getting to teach our children the games we played when we were little!

Here's the proud Daddy before church!

I love this photo! Look at the smiles on all their faces!!!

Daddy with his new gifts!

We also had John's dad here with us on Father's Day! John got him this football magazine and a big box of Coca-Cola!

Father's Day reminds me how thankful I am for several people. First, I'm so thankful for my Dad, Don Brown! Thank you Dad, for the investments you've made in my life. I love you!

I'm also thankful for my husband, John. I'm so glad you're the father of our children. You are a great daddy and I thank God for you! I love you!

Vacation Bible School - Boomerang Express

2009-06-25T13:29:00.000-07:00

Last week, we travelled on the Boomerang Express to Australia and had some VBS fun!!! We didn't really travel to Australia, but that was our theme for VBS this year. What a great week we had together as a church family. We had lots and lots of children come (close to 300 I think). We also had about 8 children come to know Jesus as their Savior for the 1st time. We serve a BIG God and we thank Him for an amazing week of Vacation Bible School!

Here is one of the extremely handsome guys we had in crafts! And yes, I'm proud to call him mine!

And here's another handsome young man who came to crafts. I'm also proud to call this one mine too!

Brenna is posing for the camera at the closing worship ralley!

Bathany coloring her boomerang during preschool crafts!

My "Goofy" children after family night!

Catching up with Brandon & Bradley

2009-06-25T13:14:00.000-07:00

John posted earlier this month about Brandon & Bradley's 5 year anniversary of being in our home. Here is a photo of them with their balloons their Daddy brought home on June 1st. They were so surprised to get these. John found this huge #5 at the party store and knew it would be perfect for this occasion. He also got blue balloons and a baseball balloon for Brandon, and red balloons with a soccer balloon for Bradley. We are blessed to call them our sons. I still find it hard to believe that they have been mine for 5 years! They are growing up so fast!

Here is Bradley participating in Reader's Theatre on the day of his awards assembly.

Bradley with his sweet teacher Ms. Wilson. This is his certificate that he received at his 2nd grade awards assembly.

Brandon receiving his certificates from Ms. Ballew, his 3rd grade teacher.

Brandon drew this hippo picture for a contest the 3rd grade students had at their school. In case you don't know, the hippo is our school mascot. The winners of the contest, got their pictures on the cover of the yearbook. Brandon's drawing came in 2nd place and was placed on the back cover of this year's yearbook. Pretty cool, huh?? Brandon is very detailed and particular about his work, and I guess it paid off. We are extremely proud of him! I was a very excited Momma when he came home and told me his picture won!!! Way to go Brandon!

Brenna's Preschool Graduation

2009-06-25T13:01:00.000-07:00

Well, it's hard to believe that Brenna is already old enough to graduate from preschool. Her graduation from WeeOnes was the end of May. What an amazing little girl she is and we are so proud of her. She had a great year with a great teacher. Ms. Robin, Ms. Sonya, and Ms. Kim were so good for Brenna and I think she is more prepared for Kindergarten because of her time in preschool. Thank you Lord for Godly teachers who take their time to invest in the lives of my children.

Brenna receiving her diploma from Ms. Carrie (our preschool director)!

Here is Brenna marching in.

Brenna with her sweet friend Lauren!

Here are Brenna's certificates, photos, etc. Lots of great memories!!!

Splash Day

2009-06-25T12:56:00.001-07:00

Well, I'm a bit behind on my blogging, so I'm going to back-track a bit and catch you up on a few fun things that have happened in the lives of the Woods'. The girls finished their preschool year with Splash Day. What fun it was! Here are a few photos of Brenna and Bethany playing on the water slide.

Weeeeeeeeeeeee!

Cute Bethany sitting on the edge of the slide!

What FUN!!!

Brenna with her sweet friends waiting to slide!

20 years

2009-06-21T21:11:00.000-07:00

Father's Day 20 years ago - June 18, 1989 - to be exact. That was the day I surrendered my life to God to follow His call into ministry. I didn't know what exactly that meant at the time; I just knew that was His call for me. I only had one viable answer to His call - obedience. I had come up with every excuse to that point why I couldn't, shouldn't, or wouldn't. No excuse would suffice. Only yes. My college major changed from numbers (accounting) to people (ministry). Because of His call, I've had the joy of serving four different churches full-time and reaching out to people with the Good News of Jesus in seven different countries (USA, Canada, Mexico, England, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Australia) on four different continents (North America, Europe, Africa, and Australia). I've traveled through four different schools (Kilgore College, East Texas Baptist University, Southwestern Seminary, and Southern California Seminary). To think about the numerous people who have encouraged me, invested in me, helped me, prayed for me, and believed in me on this journey overwhelms me. To try to name them all would be impossible, so here are the few I can think of: Margaret Rhodes, Betty Berry, Don and Marie Page, Tim Snowden, Wayne Gooden, Dorothy Acree, Merle Moreland, Johnnie Henderson, Allan Thompson, Dr. Don Potts, Dr. Bob Utley, mom and dad, Dr. James Pierce, Jerry Campbell, Robbie Wooten, Diana Jennings, Don & Doris Bearden, Don & Diane Brown, my wife Jennifer Woods, Eric Luptak, Kevin Preston, Michael Julian, Michael & Helen Young, Neil Thornburg, Chris Moore, James Dawson, Gary Newman, Jerry Newman, Andrea Jones, Carl Glaze, Mike Westbury, Brenna Dossey, MeMaw and PaPaw, Greg Bell, Erik Roddy, Alex Hamilton, Carla Early, Paul Rotenberry, Alita Hacker, and my children (Brandon, Bradley, Brenna, Bethany). This list could go on and on and on. Thank you from the depths of my being to these family members, teachers, pastors, professors, counselors, judges, attorneys, mentors, co-workers, deacons, friends, students, and children who have helped shape my life. Someone wiser than me once said that God does not call the equipped, but He equips the called. I'm so glad. I'm so grateful. I serve a great big God. O God, help me to remain faithful to Your call - wherever you lead, whatever the cost, for however long. Help me to pour my life into others just as so many others have poured their life into me. I am honored. I am humbled. I am yours. Give me 20 more years and beyond to follow you, serve you, and lead others to do the same. posted by John

Mission: Ecuador

2009-06-19T05:07:00.000-07:00

In 1956 Jim Elliott, Nate Saint, and three other commrades adventured into the jungles of Ecuador with a heart to reach the Auca Indians with the Gospel of Jesus Christ - because they had never heard. They gave their very young lives doing so. Their story and the rest of the story that follows is captured in two movies The End of the Spear and Beyond the Gates of Splendor (also in book form). Now these Indians are believers. Their story, in part, can also be heard on the album "Declaration" with emphasis on the song "No Greater Love" by Steven Curtis Chapman.
And today, 22 friends of mine (teenage students and adults) from East Paris B.C. in Paris, TX are leaving for an 8 day excursion to Ambato, Ecuador and beyond to continue the journey of sharing the Gospel there in Ecuador. You can keep up with their journey beginning today through the end of next week. Please check out their Mission: Ecuador blog and pray for them. http://epstudentmissions.blogspot.com posted by John

Facebook - Take Another Look

2009-06-18T05:35:00.001-07:00

Facebook is a social networking website that boasts over 200 million persons that are connected to it. That number has more than doubled from 100 million just since last August. WOW! In less than 10 months, the number of people "Facebooking" is up to 200 million. And it is only four years old, having started in 2oo5. When I heard that statistic, it got me to thinking. This week in our Vacation Bible School, themed the "Boomerang Express" (Australian theme), I am responsible for, among other things, the Missions Harbor each day. That is where we teach the children (and adults) about how God is at work through missionaries in this country and around the world reaching people with the Good News of Jesus. When I heard that Facebook touts 200 million plus persons as a part of its network (and growing), I thought of another number as it relates to missions. 8 x 200 million is 1.6 billion - that's the staggering number of people on the planet that have never heard the Good News about Jesus - that He loves them, died to save them, and has a plan for their life. 2 Corinthians 5:19-20 says that "...we are His ambassadors..." That means it is my job, responsibility, and privilege to make Christ known to those who have never heard. How are we doing? Facebook numbers are growing; we don't want this number - 1.6 billion - to grow. Maybe we should take another look at spending so much time facebooking and a little more time proclaiming Jesus to those whose faces represent names that need to be written in another kind of Book - the Lamb's Book of Life, which is only filled with names of those who have trusted Christ with their life as personal Savior. Are you networking because your name is in this Book? God help us. posted by John

Where'd the Time Go?

2009-05-23T06:22:00.001-07:00

5 years later

(National Day of Prayer rally with Brad McCoy

at our church)

May 21, 2004

(the day I met my boys for the first time at their foster home)

It seems like every week that I'm celebrating (and maybe mourning) an anniversary that is yet another reminder of how fast my kids are growing and how time flys and how critically important it is to, as Scripture implores us to, "...make the most of every opportunity, for the days are evil..." Yesterday the boys were out of school, so we took them and the girls to Texas Jumping Bean for an afternoon of fun and celebrating. That's right - I can't believe it has been five years either since the day I met Brandon and Bradley (see picture above). It was May 21, 2004. Brandon was 4 1/2 and Bradley was soon to be 3. Ten days later on June 1 they came to our home to be a part of our forever family. Where did the time go? Brandon is finishing the 3rd Grade and Bradley is finishing the 2nd Grade. Both are doing incredibly well. Brandon is making straight A's, playing baseball, and is as handsome as ever with those dimples he came with at age 4. Bradley has been tearing up the soccer field (he scored all three goals in our final game of the year), doing very well in school, and does everything he does at Mach 1 speed. Brandon will actually be old enough this summer to go to Pre-Teen Camp; Bradley will be starting T & T in AWANA at church in the Fall. WOW! I wish I could slow it all down. They grow right before my very eyes; and there's nothing I can do to stop it.

Dear God, help me to not be so busy that I miss the moments to enjoy and treasure. Help me not to be distracted by things that don't matter and neglect the things that do. Help me to leave work early from time to time instead of staying so late so often to get one more thing done and miss the treasure of moments at home in the process. Help me to be more patient and not get upset about things that really don't matter. Help me to love my boys unconditionally and train them up according to their way - that is, the way You made them to be. I need Your help God to give my very best with them and for them and to them - just as You have done and do for me. These boys are worth it; and they just don't need to hear it from me, they need to see it as well. I can't change the past and I don't know the future; but I know that right now in the now I need to cherish my boys and teach them to be godly young men - in word and in deed. I love them, God. Help me to show it and say it more. Because before I know it, it'll be May 21, 2018 and then 2019; I'll be blogging about where'd the time go, and these boys will be leaving high school and embarking on life away from home and living for You, Jesus (I pray!). Time may be the most precious commodity I have. Help me to use it wisely. So that as the time goes by, I will have no regrets. posted by John

When Its All Been Said and Done

2009-05-18T18:20:00.000-07:00

I sat on the back row of our FBC sanctuary today (Monday) and listened as one person after another came to the front to share about the impact, influence, and investment that their deceased friend had made in and upon their life. Compassionate, minister, faithful, musician, kind, caring, genuine - just a few words that described the life of a man well-lived. It made me wonder: when my time comes to meet my Maker and men and women sat in a room around my vacated body (I'll be in heaven) at that event called a funeral/memorial service, I wonder what they'll say. If they are honest and truthful, what words will be uttered from their mouth or in their heart when they reflect on my life? What will my friends say? What will my co-workers say? My acquaintances? My family? My children? My wife? I don't know about you, but that's a convicting thought. The truth is this: I've messed up a lot. Often times more than I'd like to admit. I'm thankful for a God who gives grace and second chances and do-overs. Even still, the Bible says in James 4 that my life is like a vapor - here for a moment, then gone. When will that moment come? I don't know. You don't know. Only God knows. According to Psalm 139, He had every day of my life numbered (and yours) before I even had my first day. My days on this planet will be brief, whether my time comes sooner or later. And question begs to be asked: will I be ready? What will really matter then? Enter the lyrics to a song entitled "When Its All Been Said and Done" by Irish worship leader Robin Mark:

"When its all been said and done, there is just one thing that matters. Did I do my best to live for truth? Did I live my life for you?"

There you go. Did I do my best to live for truth? Jesus is the truth. Did I live my life for You? So what will people say when that day comes? Awards, accomplishments, degrees, education, family ties, political ties, powerful and prestigious friends, abilities, portfolios, bank accounts - none of those things will really matter.

I hope and pray that, when its all been said and done for me, that I will have left a legacy - Like Daniel Nash. Nash was the behind-the-scenes man who traveled with evangelist Charles Finney in the mid to late 1800's. He would come into town several weeks or more before Finney was scheduled to preach a revival. His one purpose - to pray for God to do great things through Finney when he preached. The result - the 2nd Great Awakening. Thousands upon thousands of lives won to Jesus Christ as a result. According to Jim Cymbala's book Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, if you were to go find Daniel Nash's tombstone in a secluded cemetary in upstate New York today, here's what it says: Daniel Nash, Laborer with Finney, Mighty in Prayer. That's a legacy.

So what will people say about you when its all been said and done for you? A better question might be: what will Jesus say? I pray the words of Scripture from the lips of Jesus might be the words He utters to me when I stand before Him: Well done, my good and faithful servant. posted by John

2 Sweet Years

2009-05-14T08:53:00.000-07:00

Two years ago, this week, our sweet little Bethany came into our home permanently. I will never forget that day. We waited for her since the day she had been born, knowing we would eventually get her, but didn't know when. Her caseworker drove her all the way from Abilene to place her with us, her forever family. Her proud big brothers and sister were so excited she was coming. Brenna greeted her at the car, took her by the hand, and walked her into our home. So sweet!! What a blessing she is! I can't imagine our lives without her. Thank you God for the gift of this little girl. I'm so thankful you've allowed us to be her parents.

Here is the proud big sister walking Bethany in. She was 20 months old.

This picture was taken the first time we met Bethany. She was 11 months old.
Under the circumstances of her case, we did not get to keep her then. We had to wait a little bit longer, but when she came back, it was for good. I'm still very thankful that I had the opportunity to have her as an 11 month old baby, even though it was only for a few short days.

Where's My Baby????

2009-05-14T08:41:00.001-07:00

I'm sure that most people who are reading this blog know that soon after we began to pursue foster care/adoption, the 1st child God placed in our home was a beautiful little 3 month old baby girl. That beautiful little baby is now 5 years old, has lost her 1st tooth, and is now registered for Kindergarten, "sniff, sniff"! I can't believe it! Time has gone so quickly. It doesn't seem that way, until I begin to look back at the day a caseworker placed her into my arms, and I wonder, where has the time gone? I'm sure all of you ask the very same question, but this week, it has been very real to me. On Tuesday, Brenna's tooth was barely holding on. She finally let me get a good grip on it, and with a loud holler and a firm tug, the tooth popped right out. She was so excited!! That night was Kindergarten Round-Up at our elementary school. Brenna Woods is now registered for Kindergarten and will start this fall. She thought she would be meeting her teacher and all her new friends that night. When I explained to her that she would not be starting until late August, she thought that was entirely too long to wait.

Here is Brenna showing me the hole in her mouth!

Brenna sitting on the hippo after registering for Kindergarten

One Blessed Mommy

2009-05-14T08:23:00.001-07:00

On Mother's Day this year, God reminded me of a few things. He reminded me that I've been so blessed with a wonderful husband, 4 amazing children, and a mom who encourages me. Wow, what blessings from the Lord. I was treated like a queen on Mother's day by John and the kids and I thought I'd share my day with you. It started the Friday before when John took all 4 of the kids to do their Mother's day shopping, leaving me with some wonderful time to myself. Thanks Honey! He even took them out again Saturday for a little while to finish up. On Sunday after lunch, the kids presented me with picture frames they had painted themselves. John had pictures of them printed to put in their frames. What treasures!! They also made Mother's Day key chains for me. John had lots of pictures printed of the kids from when they were small until now, and placed them in a huge collage frame. You can see my treasures in the pictures below.

Me with my 4 gifts from God! John took this picture after church on Sunday.

My two very handsome boys!

My beautiful little ladies!

Here we are with my hand-painted picture frames. I also got the "Woman of the Year" Certificate. My family is so great!

Here is my collage frame that John put together for me. I love it! Thank you John for making my Mother's Day very special. I love you!

I also wanted to take a minute to say that I have the greatest Mom in the world. I didn't get to see her on Mother's day, but I'm so thankful for her! She has taught me how to be a wife and mother and I'm forever grateful. I love you Mom!

Awana Awards Ceremony

2009-05-14T08:15:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, we had our Awana Awards Ceremony. The kids all earned awards for completing their handbooks this year in Awana. I was very proud of all of them for all their hard work. We love Awana and we love what it stands for. My children have memorized so many verses from God's Word, verses they will remember from now on. I'm thankful they are hiding God's Word in their hearts. May God use it to change their lives forever! Enjoy the pictures of the kids with their awards.

Brandon earned the T&T 1st book award

Bradley earned the "Sparky"Award for completing all 3 Sparks books. Way to go Bradley!
He will be moving up to T&T next year. I can't believe it!

Brenna earned the Cubbie 2nd book award and will move up to Sparks next year!

Bethany earned the Cubbie 1st book award

Exciting things in Preschool

2009-05-14T08:04:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share with you a few exciting things that happened recently in the lives of our two preschoolers. They attend an amazing preschool at our church. It is a wonderful program and I thank God that they have the opportunity to be a part of such an amazing little school. They are learning so many things academically, but more than that, they are learning so much spiritually. Thank you Lord for Wee Ones!! Here are a few pictures from TX Day, "The 3 Little Pigs", and their Spring Music Program.

Here is Brenna doing the TX Tumble at TX Day! Roll Brenna Roll!!!

Bethany is "digging for gold"!

Brenna played the part of the big gad wolf in their production of "The 3 Little Pigs"!

Brenna singing "Sing Hosanna" with her class at their spring music program.

Bethany, giving her daddy a grin at the end of their music program!

Five Years

2009-04-25T15:23:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Brenna

Brenna and Daddy on her 5th BD.

Sweet little 3 month old Brenna, April 2004.

On Tuesday, April 21, we celebrated five years since Brenna (then Selena) came to live in our home. Initially it was a temporary emergency placement; but it only took a matter of moments when we placed our eyes on that tiny three month old (see picture above) to know that we wanted her to be a part of our forever family. Nine months following we changed her name from Selena to Brenna Michelle Woods, and six months following that only July 1, 2005 she became ours officially and forever. Thank you God for having Brenna as a part of Your forever plan for this family. We are so blessed. I can't believe how fast the time has flown by. I can't believe how fast she has grown. I can't believe how beautiful she is. I can't believe how blessed we are and how good God is. But she has, she is, we are and He is. She has grown. She is beautiful. We are so blessed, and God is so very good. posted by John

It Must Be Love

2009-04-20T22:06:00.000-07:00

I left Monday morning for Paris, TX where I am speaking at a Children's Crusade. My five-year old Brenna has been begging, pleading, and bargaining to go with me for the last two days. She has come up with lines like this: I need to go daddy so you won't be alone and its ok if I miss my soccer practice and my preschool graduation pics and BSF and Children's Choir and two days of school (whew!). For every reason I gave for her not to go, she had an answer and explanation as to why she could go. The truth is that I wanted her to come to Paris with me. She is the consumate daddy's girl; and I love having her with me everywhere I go. Mommy was most concerned with daddy not being able to prepare for my crusade responsibilities each day if Ms. Brenna was with me. Brenna had an answer for that as well: I'll just bring my coloring book and color. Well, the drama turned very sad this morning with a tearful goodbye - for Brenna and for me. But as I drove away and embarked upon the 4 1/2 hour journey to Paris, I couldn't help but smile and think extremely grateful thoughts to have a daughter who loves her daddy so much that she wants to be with him everywhere he goes, no matter where he's going or what he'll be doing there. I love her that much too. I always want to be with her. It must be love. If I love my children this much, how incredible to think how much more my heavenly Father loves me as His child. Now that's love! posted by John

A Trip To The Zoo

2009-04-20T09:07:00.000-07:00

Last week, we had the opportunity to take a trip to the Waco zoo with Brenna's preschool class. We decided it would be fun to take the whole family. We had a great time seeing all the animals and spending time with the kids. Here are some pictures from our day. I had lots more I could have posted, but for some reason, this blog will only let me load 5 pictures per post. If you know how I can fix that, please help me! Thanks!

The littls meerkats were my favorite. I could have sat and watched them for hours. Here is a cute photo of one sitting on top of this rock.

Wow, look at that elephant!!!

Cute Brenna in front of a slithery snake! Yikes!!!

Everyone with their lion faces!

John acting silly. I love the funny look on Bradley's face as he's looking over at his dad.

Easter 2009

2009-04-20T08:53:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe Easter has come and gone already! We had a very nice Easter weekend at the Woods' house. The girls celebrated Easter at their preschool on Thursday prior to Easter. They had a special lunch and a fun Easter Egg Hunt. We had a special church service on Good Friday. A drama was presented and then we celebrated the Lord's Supper, remembering the price Jesus paid for us when he died on the cross. I'm so thankful Jesus chose to do that for me! On Saturday morning, we had an Easter Eggstravaganza at our church, which included a huge egg hunt. Lots of fun!!! Easter Sunday morning, our music ministries presented a wonderful music production celebrating the Ressurection of my Lord!! It was fabulous! Here are a few family pictures of Easter!

My 2 Handsome young men and my 2 beautiful "Little ladies" on Easter morning!

After the egg hunt at church!

"Look at alllllllll these eggs!!!"

Silly Brenna before her egg hunt at preschool!

Bethany and her best buddy, Kenlie, at the egg hunt at church!

Baseball Brandon

2009-03-30T12:30:00.001-07:00

I posted pictures of my two soccer players in earlier posts, so I thought it was time I show you my baseball player! Brandon is playing baseball this spring and really loves it. He's playing with the big boys now in kid-pitch. He's done very well so far and is still learning lots of new things about the game. He had his first game about a week ago, so here are a few pics from that night!

Brandon scored a run for his team!

This picture was too cute not to share. Brenna and her daddy at Brandon's baseball game.

Me and my silly girl, Bethany!

Storms and Rainbows

2009-03-24T21:01:00.000-07:00

Every Tuesday morning I get to drive my girls to Wee Ones at our church early for a teacher's devotional that I lead. It has become tradition (a potentially dangerouos one) for me to read my girls one of their library books or a Bible story as we're driving to the church. They love the stories and I love reading them. This morning I pulled out Brenna's "Jonah" movie book that she had checked out. It was too long to read in the fifteen to twenty minutes it takes to drive to the church; so I decided to just tell them the account of Jonah (which is much safer as well!). As I talked about the events from chapter 1 of the book of Jonah, I mentioned how God sent the storm when Jonah was on a ship trying to run away from God. I really tried to emphasize with my girls (Brenna especially) that sometimes God sends storms into our life to get our attention when we mess up, just like He did with Jonah. Without missing a beat, my five-year old Brenna, who is a social butterfly and has an opinion about everything, said, "God sends storms, daddy, and then He sends the rainbows." Sometimes it scares me to think of what might come out of Brenna's mouth; but at other times, like this, she says something that is simplisticly profound. This was one of those times. She got it. I needed it. What a great reminder. For every storm filtered through the hand of God in my life, whether it be financial, familial, relational, spiritual, emotional or otherwise, there's always a rainbow to follow. That was God's promise to Noah; that's His promise to you. When we are faithless, He remains faithful. He always keeps His word. I can trust Him - going into a storm, coming out of one, or in the midst of one. So can you. The rainbow will come. Take it from a five year old. posted by John

Bethany's Funny Faces

2009-03-24T08:16:00.000-07:00

I thought I would post these pictures just for fun. While we were at my parent's house, my sister was holding Bethany taking pictures of her. She would have her make a silly face and then take a picture. I thought these were too cute. Enjoy!

Spring Break at Home

2009-03-24T07:56:00.000-07:00

Well, after returning from Longview for the first part of spring break (see previous post), we had some company come to visit us at home. After much house cleaning on Wednesday, my sister-in-law, Janie and her family, came to visit on Thursday. They were on their way to Dallas to participate in a BMX race, so they came here to spend the night with us before heading to Dallas. The kids love to spend time with their cousins and we are so glad they came. We can't wait to go and see them race soon! I'm sad to say that I didn't take any pictures to share while they were here. What was I thinking???

Then, on Friday, we spent the entire morning cleaning up the yard. Late that night, my sister, Kimmy and her boyfriend Joe came for a visit. We were excited that they were coming to spend a couple of days with us. Here are a few pictures from their visit here. Again, thanks Kimmy for taking pictures, since I didn't. I was a bit lazy with my picture-taking!

Kimmy and Joe took a stroll down by the capital building in Austin.

John and Kimmy posing for a quick pic!

Kimmy and Brenna in the backyard! "Cheese!!!" (Bradley sneaking in the picture from the trampoline)

We went for a walk Sat. night and the boys rode their scooters. Here's Brandon cruising down the road on his scooter!

Joe pulling Bethany in the wagon!

Spring Break at MawMaw & PawPaw's

2009-03-24T07:27:00.001-07:00

The Woods family had a great spring break. It was busy, but lots of fun. It started with a trip to Longview to visit my parents and sister. The kids absolutely love to be at their MawMaw and PawPaw's house. They think it is the greatest place on earth. They also think that their PawPaw has the biggest yard ever. I just love it!! We spent Sat. thru Tues. there in Longview visiting family. We also got to see John's grandparents for a little while. We don't know how much longer they will be with us, so every opportunity we have to spend time with them, we take advantage of it. Enjoy these photos of spring break. Would you believe that I didn't get my camera out the entire time we were there. Thanks to Aunt Kimmy for taking some pictures.

Here is one of Bethany's favorite people in the world, "Aunt Kimmy"!

Brandon taking Brenna for a spin in the go-cart! Everyone Look Out!!!

Bethany spent some time bouncing on the trampoline!

MawMaw & PawPaw surprised the kids with a Wii. We all had fun playing games! It was great to have since the weather was chilly and wet the first 2 days we were there. A big

"THANK YOU" to MawMaw and PawPaw for getting the Wii. We had a blast! This picture is of Brandon and Bradley playing tennis (i think)!

Daddy taking his girls for a spin in the go-cart. They would both say "1-2-3 GO!!" and then John would take off really fast. They loved it. I think John liked it too!

Awana Grand Prix

2009-03-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

Three Sundays ago, we had our Awana grand prix at church. John and I have prepared for and run many grand prix's, but this was our first year to have children who were old enough to race a car in the grand prix. So, not only were we trying to plan the grand prix, get all our leaders in place, and set up for the race, we also had two race cars to build. For those of you who are not familiar with the Awana grand prix, is is much like the Cub Scout Pinewood Derby. So, John and I ordered a "how-to" book to help us build these cars. I talked with many people who had done this before. We knew everything to do, but when it came down to getting it done, it was much harder than it looked. We quickly found out that we didn't have the right tools, or the know-how to get the job done. So, I'm so thankful that God provides people in our lives to help us accomplish certain tasks. Different people helped us cut wood, drill holes, etc. We actually did the sanding and painting all ourselves. Our boys enjoyed the race! Their cars were pretty fast, but there were several others that were much faster. They were a bit disappointed that they didn't get a medal, but we learned alot of things that we will do differently next year. Brandon has already begun to plan his car design for next year. Here a couple of pictures of them with their grand prix cars.

Brandon smiling about half way through his races.

Bradley had to force this smile. He was disappointed that his car didn't win.

1st Soccer Games

2009-03-24T07:03:00.000-07:00

Bradley and Brenna had their first soccer games a few weeks ago. This is Brenna's 2nd season to play soccer and she really likes it. She is playing with two of her friends that were on her last team, and she also has the same coach this season. Watching their team is so fun. I get so tickled at them as they learn to play soccer. I'm also glad for the good exercise Brenna is getting from playing this sport. She's doing great and I'm very proud of her. Here are a few photos from her first game.

Brenna had the first kick-off of the game!

Cute Brenna giving Mommy a "cheesey" grin after the game.

Bradley is having lots of fun playing soccer again. He played when he was in Kindergarten for one season, and now decided that he wanted to play again. I think soccer is Bradley's sport. He is doing so well and seems to love every minute of it. His daddy is doing a great job coaching his team. He is so patient with all the boys and seems to be enjoying himself. Bradley likes the fact that his dad is his coack. I like it too! Enjoy these photos from Bradley's first game.

Stopping briefly to smile for Mom!

As you can see from this photo, Bradley goes 90 miles an hour the entire game. He plays with everything he's got. He never wants to come out of the game and take a break. I love watching this kid play ball and I'm very proud of him.

Just a thought...

2009-03-11T14:34:00.000-07:00

"My worth to God in public is what I am in private." - Oswald Chambers (posted by John)

Remembering Kelly

2009-03-10T18:57:00.000-07:00

It was the year 2ooo. Jennifer and I were in our pursuit of having children, but struggling. We were knee deep in debt and numerous trips to the fertility clinic in Shreveport, and then little 3 year-old Kelly walked into our lives. Actually, her aunt Barbara was a part of our life already. She worked for the chiropractor we went to, and she knew of our plight and desperate desire to have children. Her sister was Kelly's mom - a 28 year-old drug addict who had lived a rough life filled with numerous bad choices and had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Her dad - a deadbeat deluxe named Dennis with the same type of lifestyle. Kelly's Aunt Barbara started talking to us about giving Kelly a home. At the time we knew little to nothing about foster care or adoption or the legalities of either. We were elated and simply desperate beyond belief to have a child to call our own. We were also naive and vulnerable but willing to take the risk. Sometime in late February Kelly's mom died. And so we took the risk.
March 10 rolled around. It was a Friday. I was the Children & Youth Pastor at a church in Longview. Our Disciple Now weekend started that night. It was overshadowed by the entrance of beautiful little three year-old Kelly. She was the child we had hoped for, dreamed of, and wanted. And she was ours for a brief two and a half months; and then she was gone. Our hearts were broken and dreams were shattered. To say we were devestated would put it mildly. She was given back to her deadbeat dad by a crazy Upshur County court. We saw her on June 12 when she turned 4 to celebrate her birthday at her Aunt Barbara's. I was leaving for a mission trip to Australia when I saw her for the last time on Tuesday, July 4. It was a bittersweet time. I cried like a baby as I left the country and Kelly left our life.
Now as I sit in my home some nine years later to the day that Kelly came to live in our home, I remember. And I wonder. I wonder about Kelly. And I pray for Kelly. She is 11 years old now. I pray that she is safe. I pray that she is in a home with loving, caring parents. I pray that she has encountered Christ in a personal way. I pray that God will use her in a mighty way to change her world and the world for His glory. And I pray that somehow, someway God will take the investments we made in the short three months of our experience with Kelly and bring those young seeds to fruition and growth. And I wonder. And remember. Remember Kelly. And smile. posted by John

The Struggle

2009-03-09T19:56:00.000-07:00

I was downstairs folding clothes when one of our favorite shows was coming on - CSI Miami. We watch it religiously. However as I watched the opening scene this evening, I was convicted. Let me explain. The opening scene was a wedding ceremony scene, but there was only one person - the bride. The ceremony was in reality a mock wedding ceremony that was celebrating her freedom from the man she had been married to. In other words, it was celebrating her divorce. The mock minister went through vows that included something like do you solemnly swear to live your life to the fullest, free from this man. It made me ill. It was convicting. I decided to come upstairs, finish folding and hanging up clothes, and forego watching one of my favorite shows. Now I'm writing this post. And the struggle is this: I enjoy watching CSI and CSI Miami. I enjoy it a lot - ashamedly I must admit I sometimes enjoy it more than I enjoy pleasing God. And as I watched the opening scene tonight, God really spoke to my heart. I was convicted. He brought Philippians 4:8 to mind, which says, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things." Another translation ends the verse by saying "...think about such things." What things? Whatever is right, true, noble, just, pure, noble, pleasing to God, in harmony with His Word. What about things that don't fit the criteria? What about things that are wrong, false, untrue, dirty, of bad report or reputation, evil, unjust, yada, yada, yada? What do I do with that which promotes such an unhealthy diet of thoughts? According to this verse (and many others), I should avoid it like the plague. The show tonight made a mockery of something God loves and established - marriage. It also glamorized and justified as the norm something that is sinful and hated by God - divorce. No, it is not the unforgiveable sin; but it is sin nonetheless. And God just doesn't hate divorce, He hates all sin. We have just grown so callous to so many sins that are commonplace - at least I have in many respects. And I certainly have when it comes to what I watch. I have to ask myself the question: When I've watched CSI Miami or other shows like it in the past, why haven't I been as convicted as I was tonight? Good question. It's not like this or any other number of shows I watch haven't promoted this that are ungodly or displeasing to God. They do. And the struggle is that I still enjoy watching the shows for the sake of entertainment. And all too often, I'm afraid, I justify it by making it out to be not a big deal. It should be a big deal, and most of the time its not. I've got such a long way to go.
Does it mean I'll never watch again? Not necessarily. Its not about being rigid. It is about being honest. And the honest truth is that I do think it is a wake-up call for me to again make priority the things that should be and must be that will bring life change to me each day, and that is personal time with God - not anything else. Everything else is a poor substitute and leaves me, for the most part, unchanged or callous or justifying. God help me. Help me to renew myself to carry out Matthew 6:33 each day, which says, "Seek first God's Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." posted by John

My Soccer Players

2009-02-28T12:30:00.000-08:00

Here is a sneak peek at my two Soccer Players. They had soccer pictures first thing this morning so I thought I would snap a few photos of them in their new uniforms. It was very cold and windy this morning, so I'm sure the group pictures of them with their teams will be something to see.

Brenna is on the lime green team. They don't have a name yet, still trying to come up with one.

Bradley is on the maroon team. His daddy is his coach and they came up with the name "Flames". I thought that was a cool name! The only thing Bradley was concerned about was the color of the uniform. You know, we're all about burnt orange around here, Ha! Go Longhorns!!

Be watching for pictures of my baseball player! He doesn't have a uniform yet, but I'm sure it is on it's way. Our lives are busier because of sports, but it sure is fun watching them play.

Updates and Valentines

2009-02-27T19:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I thought I would update you since my last post. I think I told you about Brenna and Brandon being sick, and also about Brenna's little accident with her tooth. Well, Brandon finally got well and is doing great. Brenna was diagnosed with a sinus infection and the beginning of an ear infection. She had a very rough week that week, but I'm thankful that she too is now well and doing great! That same week that Brenna was sick, Bethany got the flu, and by the end of the week, she had double ear infections. So, we've had our share of sickness since the start of a new year, and I'm ready for all of us to be healthy and stay that way for a while. Right now, everyone is great, and I'm rejoicing in that!!

About Brenna's tooth: We thought we would have her tooth pulled because of the injury to it (see last post for more details). But, she saw the dentist this week and he said the tooth has tightened up, is not as dark, and actually looks great right now. So, we decided to leave it alone and let it come out when it's ready. Brenna was very glad, because she had already told me, "Mommy, nobody is taking out my tooth!!" I'm thankful I didn't have to fight that battle!

I thought I would post a few Valentine pictures. My girls were both sick and missed their Valentine parties at preschool, but they were very excited when their daddy brought home all their Valentine goodies. Brandon and Bradley both had fun parties at school.

Here is a sweet picture of Brenna helping me get she and Bethany's Valentines ready to send to her friends at school.

Here is Bradley at his "Cookie Decorating" Valentine Party at school. Loads of fun and lots of sugar.

Here is Brandon showing off all his loot at his Valentine Party.

This picture has nothing to do with Valentine's Day, but I didn't have a Valentine picture of Bethany. So, here is Bethany and her best buddy, Kenlie at Pajama Day at preschool.

I'll close for now. Be on the lookout for more to come. Soccer season and baseball season have begun. Bradley and Brenna are playing soccer, and Brandon is playing baseball. So, I'm certain there will be more posts along with photos in the days ahead. Thanks for reading!!

Sick Children and a Loose Tooth

2009-02-08T08:19:00.000-08:00

I'm at home from church today with my sweet girl, Brenna. She seemed very tired yesterday, but I thought it was because we've had a long weekend of preteen Dicscipe Now. She took a nap yesterday, which is totally not like her, and then woke me up at 6:24 this morning saying she couldn't sleep. She climbed into my bed never saying a word about not feeling well. I got up to get ready for church, and as I was just about ready, I heard John call my name. After picking Brenna up and carrying her downstairs, he noticed she was rather warm. Sure enough, she was running fever. So, I'm afraid that her congestion that she's had for a few weeks now, has turned into an ear infection. She'll be the third one of our children who has had one since the first of the year.

Bethany started out with congestion a few weeks ago. After one night of almost no sleep and a terrible earache, I took her to the dr. to find that she had a yucky ear infection. Then last week, after developing congestion, Brandon had a night with a terrible earache. It was Super Bowl Sunday night. I ended up taking him to the ER because his ear was hurting so badly. They didn't do much for him there and recommended that we see our pediatrician the next day. His ear was so bad that his ear drum burst. He and Bethany are much better now, Thank the Lord!

Brenna has also had some other things happen to her since her birthday. I posted earlier about Brenna's birthday and how she and a few of her friends went to an inflatable place to play. While there, Brenna climbed to the top of one of the slides, bounced at the top before sliding down, and then hung her top front tooth on the safety net at the top of the slide, pulling it loose and cutting her gum. I took her to the dentist the next week, after the tooth began turning dark, to find that the root was dead and the blood supply to that tooth had been cut off. So, she goes back on the 24th for her annual check-up, and on that day, the dentist will pull her front tooth. I'm sure there will be pictures to follow that visit!

Other than that, things are going pretty well. I'm thanking God for his healing when we are sick. Also, for His provisions for dr.'s, medicine, etc. Thanks for reading our blog! No pictures to share this time, but I'm sure we'll have some soon!

Happy 9th Birthday Brandon!

2009-01-24T20:40:00.000-08:00

Boy, do we have lots of birthdays in January. Today we celebrated Brandon's 9th birthday. He is growing up so fast. He had a very fun day that started at Churck E. Cheese. John took he and his friend Cory there to play games and eat pizza for lunch. They had such a great time! Then, it was Brandon's turn to go to Build-A-Bear. The tradition that John started with girls has been passed on to the boys. We ended our day with another family party. Enjoy these special photos from Brandon's birthday.

Brandon and his friend Cory at Chuck E. Cheese!

Brandon decided to build a Longhorn today at Build-A-Bear. He named him "Leo Longhorn". He's wearing a Tx Longhorn t-shirt, jeans, and is holding a football. Too cute!

"Look what MawMaw and PawPaw sent me for my birthday! You guys are awesome!"

Brandon blowing out his candles on his Longhorn cake!

Happy Birthday Brandon!

Happy 5th Birthday Brenna!

2009-01-24T20:23:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm still having trouble believing that my baby girl is "5" years old. She has grown so much this past year. Her birthday was this past Wednesday and we celebrated on Friday. She started her day with 4 of her friends. John took them to "Ready, Set, Play" for some inflatable fun! Then they went to Chick-Fil-A for lunch! What a great time with great friends!! After that, John took Brenna to Build-A-Bear. He started this tradition last year for her birthday and decided that he would take her each year on her birthday. We ended the day with a family party at home. Enjoy the pictures from her special day!

Here is Brenna and her buddy Garrett sliding down one of the inflatable slides. What fun!!

Instead of getting a bear at Build-A-Bear, she decided on a lab puppy. She named her "Labbie" and also got her a house to sleep in. There are two things that Brenna loves, teddy bears and puppy dogs. Labbie has on a very cute outfit that you can't see because she is in her house.

My boys were so sweet to their sister on her birthday. This is a card that Brandon made for Brenna. He drew a picture of the two of them and then put $5 in this card that he made because she was turning 5. We really try to teach them to put others first, and then sometimes they really surprise us, and do such sweet things for each other. Bradley also gave Brenna some of his money in a little coin purse. She really has great big brothers.

Getting ready to blow out the candles!

Me and my girl!!!

Happy Birthday John!

2009-01-24T20:13:00.000-08:00

On January 12th, we celebrated John's 41st birthday! We had a family party at home. I cooked one of John's favorite meals, the kids and I had gifts for John, and then ended the evening with strawberry shortcake, Yum! Papa John also joined us for the celebration! Here are a few pictures for you to enjoy!

Our silly kiddos with their birthday daddy!

A big birthday hug from Brenna! So sweet!

Bradley and Daddy with their horns up! Bradley got this Longhorn t-shirt for John.

When Bethany saw the older kids wrapping the gifts they had gotten for their daddy, she filled a gift sack up with some her jewelry and gave it to John for his birthday. She was so excited, especially when John put on one of the necklaces. When I took their picture, she also thought she was supossed to get her horns up!

Here is John as we sing "Happy Birthday" to him!

Back to "Normal"

2009-01-05T17:38:00.000-08:00

The last few weeks have been anything but normal around the Woods' house. John has been off work, which has been nice for me and the kids. The kids have been out of school for the Christmas holidays. We've spent lots of time together as a family which has also been nice for the kids and for John and I. But, tomorrow, everything will seem to be back to normal. John went back to work today, the boys start back to school tomorrow, and the girls start back to WeeOnes tomorrow. Then, on Wednesday, BSF will begin again for the girls and I. I will be back to getting up early, making lunches, getting kiddos off to school, running errands, doing laundry (somehow the laundry never stops no matter what time of year it is), picking the kids up from school, etc., etc., etc. I've been ready to get back to a normal schedule, but I've also enjoyed my children being home and John being here with us for a few weeks.

As 2009 us now underway, I think about new beginnings. I don't usually make new year's resolutions, because I seldom follow through. But, I've been convicted about my personal time with God. I don't spend near enough personal time with the One who loved me enough to die for me. The One who has forgiven me of everything I've ever done wrong, and the One who has a place prepared for me when I die. The One who cares for me day after day, providing for my every need. The One who is my Savior and my friend. The One whom I can call on any time. The One who longs for me to spend time with Him. It is Jesus! I've committed to get up earlier, to win the "battle of the blanket", to not let busyness get in the way, and to start my day with my Lord! I've tried to face each day in my own strength and have failed miserably. I need God's strength to be a Godly wife and mother. My Sunday School teacher challenged our class this past Sunday to read a Proverb a day, and I'm going to take him up on his challenge. I'm also going to stop waiting until the last minute to work on my BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) lesson. Lord, please help me to follow through with my commitment to You. I love you and I want my life to show evidence of that. Thank you for convicting me when I am not walking with you!

On another note, my Bradley lost another tooth yesterday. That was big news in his 7-yr. old world. The only two pictures I have to share today are of my boys in their Longhorn attire. They took a nap today so they could stay up late tonight and watch the Longhorns play football.

Yes, Brandon is actually watching the football game with his Longhorn helmet on. Funny!!!

Bradley with his "Hook 'Em Horns" sign! They are true fans! I guess it runs in the family!

Christmas Day

2008-12-27T20:39:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas Day at home. It started early with some very excited children, ready and waiting to open gifts. We enjoyed the morning sharing gifts with one another. The kids had used their own money to buy gifts for each person in our family. John and I had separately taken them to the Dollar Tree, where they carefully picked things out for each person on their list. The boys wrapped their own gifts in the privacy of their own room. John helped Brenna get her gifts for others wrapped. It warmed my heart to watch them give the gifts they had purchased. I'm praying that God will use this to help them understand that it truly is better to give than receive.

After opening gifts, I finished cooking our Christmas lunch while the kids played with some of their new things. Papa John came over and joined us for our yummy lunch. John, the boys and Brenna took turns reading the Christmas story from God's Word. That afternoon, we went outside to take a walk and let the kids ride their bikes. We ended our day with a birthday cake for Jesus that the kids decorated themselves.

Here is John with his new Ipod docking station.

Brandon and Bradley got these football suits for Christmas. Here they are showing me their best football faces!

Here is Bethany with her new baby stroller, playpen, and swing. She is a sweet little Mommy to her baby dolls.

Ms. Brenna has grown so much this year that her bike from last Christmas is too small. So, she got a new one for Christmas. We let her take it for a spin and she did really well. The next step is to get rid of the training wheels. Maybe soon!

We made a heart-shaped cake to show how much God loved us by sending His Son Jesus to be born on earth. The kids loved decorating the cake, and then blowing out the candles.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

What a Great Visit!

2008-12-27T20:17:00.000-08:00

We had an early Christmas visit from my side of our family. My brother and his daughter Alex, flew in from Chicago. They, along with my Mom, Dad, and sister Kimmy came to our house for several days. They were here until early Christmas Eve, when they had to travel back to Dallas for my brother and neice to catch their flight home. We had lots of fun while they were here. We played games, watched movies, finished shopping, and had lots of laughs. They were all here for Brandon and Bradley's baptism too (see next two posts). We celebrated Christmas with them on Monday evening. John shared the Christmas story with everyone in a very creative way, and then we opened gifts. It was such a treat to have them all here. We are so thankful they were able to travel to our home to spend time with us. It was sad to see them leave, but we made lots of Christmas memories while they were here. Enjoy these photos from the week.

Myself with my brother (Jeff) and my sister (Kimmy). There are always lots of laughs when these two are around.

My brother and his daughter Alex (my sweet neice)

PawPaw opening his gift from Brenna (his favorite, Butterfingers). He had been teasing her the whole visit trying his best to get her to tell him what she got him for Christmas.

Mom, Dad and myself at church on Sunday.

Christmas with Family

2008-12-27T20:09:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, the 21st, John's sister Janie and her family drove up from Houston to be here for the boys baptism (see next post). John's mom was also here with us for this special occasion. We had fun after church eating lunch and opening gifts with all of them. We're so glad they were here and enjoyed our day with them.

Here is Uncle Darren and Brenna.

John and I with our nephews Blake and Rayne, and our neice Jordan

John and his sister Janie with their Mom (Linda) and Dad (Papa John)

The grandkids with Moms and Papa John! Aren't they all so cute???

Brandon & Bradley's Baptism

2008-12-27T14:03:00.001-08:00

Sunday, December 21st was a very special day for our family. Brandon and Bradley were baptized by their daddy! What an honor for John to be able to baptize our boys! They were able to share with our entire church family, plus grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, that they had accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Their MawMaw and PawPaw, Aunt Kimmy, Uncle Jeff and cousin Alex were all there to share in this exciting event. Plus, Papa John, Moms, Uncle Darren, Aunt Janie, Cousins Blake, Rayne and Jordan were also able to be there. It meant a great deal to our family that all of you came.

After church, we had a family lunch at home and opened Christmas gifts with John's sister Janie and her family. What an exciting day!!! Here are a few pictures to share!

Bradley is looking on as Daddy gets ready!

John and the boys before their baptism.

John baptizing Bradley

John getting ready to baptize Brandon

Brandon & Bradley, your daddy and I are so proud of you for the decision you've made to follow Jesus! I pray that you will always strive to know Him more, and to love Him with your whole heart. We love you boys very much

14 Years, Wow!

2008-12-27T13:17:00.000-08:00

December 17, 1994 was one of the best days of my life. I remember it like it was yesterday. It was my wedding day, the day I married John A. Woods, the love of my life. I remember the excitement and joy I felt that day. I wasn't nervous at all, just so excited that our day had finally arrived. I remember all our family and friends being there to share our special day with us. I remember wishing the day would never end. But, as our wedding day came to an end, our new life together as a married couple began.

This year on December 17, 2008, John and I celerated 14 years of marriage. I can't believe it has been 14 years since we said "I do", but it has. After getting the kids all to bed, John treated me to dinner and a movie right here at home. He also surprised me with 15 dozen roses. Yes, that's right, I said 15 DOZEN. I was shocked to say the least. And, they didn't cost him a thing. I'm not sure how he did that, he never would tell me. But, they were absolutely beautiful. We didn't have enough vases to fit them in, so we had to leave them in the lovely buckets they came in. He said it was one dozen for every year we had been married, plus one to grown on. I've posted pictures to prove it. It doesn't look like 180 roses, but it really is. Scouts honor!!!

Thank you John for 14 great years. I know we've had our ups and downs, but God has sustained our marriage. I'm thankful for you and your love for me and our family. Thank you for working so hard to provide for us and take care of us. I love you more and more each day and am looking forward to the next 14 years to spend with you. Hopefully it will be many more than that! God has done so many things in our marriage over the past 14 years, and I praise Him for all He's done. Thank you John, for the yummy dinner, the movie, and the beautiful roses!

Any PCD fans in the house????

2008-12-16T15:08:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday night, my sweet husband took me to see Phillips, Craig & Dean in concert. They are one of my all time favorite Christian singing groups. They've been singing together 17 years, Wow!!! I'm beginning to feel old because I've been listening to them a long time. Anyway, we had seats on the 2nd row and it was awesome! Here are a couple of pictures below from the evening. John took them on his phone, so the quality is not the best! Thank John for a very fun evening! I loved the concert and I love you.

Christmas Concert

2008-12-14T20:31:00.000-08:00

Tonight was a special night in our church. Our preschool, children, youth, Sr. Adult, and Adult choirs sang special concerts! Brenna and Bethany sang with the Preschool choir, and Brandon and Bradley sang with the Children's choir. Below are some pictures from the evening.

My cuties after the concert! I was desperately trying to get them to smile together!

My silly boys before singing!

Here is Bethany singing. She is supossed to be rocking baby Jesus back and forth in her arms.

Brenna and her friend Garret, singing during practice!

Awana "Happy Birthday Jesus" Party

2008-12-14T20:15:00.000-08:00

We had our final Awana meeting for the semester yesterday morning from 10 to 12. We had a birthday celebration for Jesus, along with a live nativity for the children to enjoy! One of our student ministers dressed as a shepherd, and took the kids to the manger scene, where he told them the story of Jesus birth (Thanks Douggie!!! You did an excellent job!) The kids seemed to enjoy it. One of the funny things about the morning were the live animals. We were supossed to have some sheep, possibly a donkey, we even checked into having camels. As it turned out, none of those animals were able to join us. The only animals available were these two sweet little baby pigs. Now, I'm not sure if pigs were present when Jesus was born, but our living nativity was equipped with 2 shepherds standing watch over the pigs. Funny! The kids loved them and our morning went very well! We celebrated with birthday cake, a message from John, gifts, and of course, a visit to the manger where we were reminded about the reason we celebrate Christmas! May we not get so busy that we forget the birth our our Savior! Enjoy the photos!

Brandon, Bradley and Brenna are checking out the pigs.

Here is some of the cast of our living nativity! Thanks guys!

This picture is so funny! John was in charge of picking the pigs up and taking them back home. So, we followed him to take them home so the kids could see all the pigs at the farm. Now, pigs don't usually smell like roses, and when I opened the van door, Bethany soon learned this to be true. She said, "OOOOH, Mommy, Poop!!!" She did not let go of her nose until we left the farm. I laughed watching her hold her nose!

Thanksgiving Day

2008-12-01T20:31:00.000-08:00

Well, John blogged about Thanksgiving several days ago, so I wanted to share a few photos with you from our wonderful day! We spent the day with my family having tons of fun, eating yummy food, riding the new go-cart that MawMaw and PawPaw bought, playing baseball, and lots of other fun things. As John posted earlier, we also remembered how thankful we are for all the blessings from the Lord. I'm thankful for my family and the time God allowed us to spend together this past week. What memories were created!

Here are a couple of photos of our go-cart adventures. The top picture is of Bradley driving John, and the bottom picture is of Brandon driving Bethany and I around the yard. It was so cute when Brandon said as he was zooming in the go-cart, "Ain't this fun, Mommy?" And at some point during the ride, Bethany said, "Hold on tight!" So funny!

Brenna's favorite thing is for her PawPaw to pull her in the trailor behind his riding lawn mower! The faster he drives, the more they love it!

We also had the privilege of meeting my sister, Kimmy's boyfriend, Joe. We had lots of fun getting to know him and spending time with he and Kimmy!

The day after Thanksgiving, we got to visit John's MeMaw and Papaw. We had not seen them since we moved so it was a treat to get to visit with them. We also got to visit with John's mom. That's one thing I love about the holidays, is that we get to see people who we don't see very often. Here is a picture of the kids with Memaw and Papaw.

The next day, Sat., we travelled to Paris to visit some of our friends there. We had dinner with our dear friends, Mark and Meredith, and Kristi. The kids had a blast playing with their buddies Josh and Noah, while I had some time to catch up with my dear friends. Brandon and Bradley even got to spend the night with them. We love you guys! We were also able to attend our previous church in Paris and had the chance to see lots of our friends there.

I'm thankful for the time away to see family and friends. It's always good to travel, but it is also nice to be back home. Our 5 hour trip home turned into an 8 hour trip because traffic was so bad. God brought us home safely and we thank Him for it.

A Blessed Day, 1 year ago, November 27, 2007

2008-12-01T14:55:00.000-08:00

This past Thursday, Thanksgiving Day, reminded me that one year ago, we adopted our beautiful little Bethany. We travelled out to Abilene to join 4 other families who were also experiencing the incredible gift of adoption. Five families on November 27, 2007, gave 9 children the gift of a forever family. What a glorious day it was as Bethany officially became a Woods. She has been such a joy to us, as well as, to all who know her. She is now 3 years old and has grown in so many different ways. She can sing "Jesus Loves Me" so sweetly and it makes my heart smile every time I hear it. She may not probounce all the words, but the melody is almost perfect pitch. What a blessing God has given us in this little girl. I look forward to all He has in store for her as she continues to grow. Thank you Lord for Bethany, our beautiful daughter, a gift from You! I pray she will grow up to know You, love You, and serve You with her whole heart.

I thought I would share some photos from that special day! Hope you don't mind!

One Proud Mommy!!!

Here is our family with Judge Alita Hacker. She has done all 4 of our children's adoptions.

Here is Brenna, Bethany and their cousin Mary Grace. What a sweetie!

This is my dear friend Shanna, and her precious daughter Mary Grace. We were so thrilled that they could spend our special day with us!

Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T21:12:00.000-08:00

What a great day it has been today. Thanksgiving. Giving thanks. Today could be described with five words: fun, family, food, football, and faith. We spent the day at Jennifer's mom and dad's house along with Jennifer's sister, Kimberly and her boyfriend Jo, along with my dad and my crew of six. There was the traditional turkey and dressing with all the trimmings as well as pumpkin and chocolate pies for dessert. There was also the traditional watching of football games galore today, including two resounding victories by the Cowboys and the Longhorns! There was also the non-traditional activities of riding go-carts & taking tractor rides around the yard as well as a four-inning family-friendly game of baseball. After an overcast start to the day, the sun came out and shone brightly (in answer to our prayers this morning) and splashed our game with its presence and warmth. This day started off right with Jennifer and I having our personal quiet time with God, including time praying together. It was during that time that God reminded us in a fresh way about the meaning and importance of gratitude. I'd like to share a couple of excerpts from a book I'm reading entitled Every Day Deserves A Chance by Max Lucado. From the chapter entitled "Gratitude for Ungrateful Days", here's some good food for thought on a day when you've probably had your fill of food. Chew on this:

"Gratitude is the firstborn child of grace, the appropriate response of the blessed." (We are the blessed indeed!).

"God notices the grateful heart. Why? Does he have an ego problem? No. But we do. Gratitude lifts our eyes off the things we lack so we might see the blessings we possess."

One final thought: Today is the one-year anniversary of the adoption of our youngest child, Bethany. She is a beautiful, wonderful blessing, as are Brandon, Bradley, & Brenna. Thank you God for Thanksgiving. I am overflowing with gratefulness. posted by John (and I'm sure there will be pictures added after we return home).

Quotes

2008-11-25T22:17:00.000-08:00

Here's a couple of good quotes to chew on:

"It is never right to do wrong; it is never wrong to do right." - Ryan Dobson (son of Focus on the Family founder James Dobson and found of Kor World Ministries) www.ryandobson.com

"What you think about God is the most important thing about you." - A.W. Tozer (as quoted by James McDonald on his show Walk in the Word). http://www.walkintheword.com/

posted by John

A Date with My Husband

2008-11-15T20:42:00.000-08:00

I actually got to go on a date with my husband tonight. This is something we don't get to do very often, so when we do, it's a real treat! Someone in our church blessed John with 2 tickets to the Lady Longhorn basketball game. Now, I'm not a big sports fan unless I'm watching my boys play baseball, or my daughter play soccer. Then I get really excited! But, I do like to watch basketball. I don't care to watch it on TV, but to see it in person is fun. John took me to the game tonight and we had a really good time watching the game and munching on popcorn! The Lady Longhorns won the game, so that made the night even better. Thanks John for a great evening!

Aunt Janie, Uncle Darren and their kiddos happened to be here this weekend for some fun BMX bike racing. Brandon and Bradley got to hang out with them at the track this afternoon, while my friend Jennith watched our girls for us. Brandon even took his 1st spin around the track and actually did pretty well! He came away with a nice scrape on his ankle, but other than that, he was ready to go again! Thanks Uncle Darren and Aunt Janie for keeping the boys this afternoon and evening! I know they had a great time!

Jennith, a great big "Thank you" to you too for keeping Brenna and Bethany! We appreciate you guys very much!

Salvation

2008-11-13T20:58:00.000-08:00

"Salvation is found in no else; for there is no other name under heaven given among men whereby you must be saved." Acts 4:12

Conditions or Circumstances That Will Not Get You to Heaven (i.e. - save you):

1. Being Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, or any other denomination or label of religion.
2. Being Good Enough.
3. Going to church.
4. Reading the Bible.
5. Having parents or grandparents who are Christians
6. Being baptized
7. Praying
8. Giving enough money
9. Performance or ability
10. Achievements or merit of any kind (educational, religious, social, economical, political)

The Bible states the truth clearly in John 14:6. In that passage, Jesus said, "I am the (only) way, the (only) truth, and the (only) life; no one comes to the Father except through Me." italics mine

Nothing and no one can get you to heaven. Only a personal relationship with Jesus will lead to eternal life here and now and in heaven one day. Jesus is the only way. posted by John

It's A Girl!

2008-11-12T19:58:00.000-08:00

That's right. I was witness to the birth of a child tonight. It was a girl! Congratulations Erni family. You've been doubly blessed. You're daughter, Christine, is just beautful; and now she's a part of God's forever family. Oh by the way - just in case your wondering - the birth I refer to that I witnessed tonight was a spiritual birth, not a physical one. Nine-year old Christine Erni came to my office before church late this afternoon to visit with me about becoming a Christian. After we went through God's plan of salvation from the Bible, Christine took God at His Word and trusted Him with her life as her personal Lord & Savior. Understanding that she was a sinner, she turned from her sin and turned to Jesus alone to save her. She did what Romans 10:9-10 says, "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made, resulting in salvation." Way to go, Christine! I am proud of you. This is the most important decision anyone can make.
On a personal note, in 19 years of ministry, having the privilege of leading a child to faith in Jesus Christ never gets old. It is always an incredible experience. I'm humbled to be one whom God would choose to use to lead & help children on the great journey - the journey of faith with Jesus.
Christine - now it's time to grow! This is just the beginning of the journey. We serve an awesome God. There's nothing like a new birth - physical or spiritual! posted by John

Flowers and Crazy Hair

2008-11-12T18:35:00.001-08:00

Alot has happened this week. Alot happens every week in the Woods' house, but this week I thought I would post about 2 things. The first pictures I have posted are of my children on "Crazy Hair Night" at Awana. We have "Crazy Hair Night" every year in Awana and they never grow tired of it. They love wearing their hair in some kind of crazy way out of the norm. So, enjoy the crazy hair pics below.

Here, Brandon is giving his Dad the side view of his wacky hairdo!

Would you look at that mohawk? It's amazing what a hand filled of hair goop will do!!

My four darlings with their crazy do's!

You might be wondering why I've posted a picture of these beautiful flowers. My husband brought these home to the kids and I Monday evening after work. We were very surprised and immediately got a vase with water for them. He wanted to let us know how much he loved us by saying, "These roses will die, but my love for you will never die!" What an awesome picture to show myself as well as our children. John, you are an awesome husband and father and I love you very much! Thank you for giving of yourself for our family. Thank you for working so hard each day to provide for us. We notice all you do and we appreciate you! We love you! I love you! And, I thank God for you!

The Good News

2008-11-06T08:28:00.000-08:00

Did you know that Taiwan is a country where 97% of the people are Buddhist? That means if they died today, they would do so without a relationship with Jesus Christ and would spend eternity separated from God. Franklin Graham, son of world-renown evangelist Billy Graham, has just finished preaching a festival in Taipei, Taiwan over a four-day period. In that time, 183,000 persons heard the Good News of Jesus Christ proclaimed to them by Graham. Of those people, nearly 10,000 made a commitment of their life to Jesus as their personal Savior and Lord. WOW! The Gospel is still the best news available, and people responding to it is Good News indeed! You can read and see more about the Taipei Franklin Graham Festival at www.billygraham.org posted by John

Trunk Or Treat

2008-11-01T09:39:00.001-07:00

Last night, we had a terrific opportunity to reach out to our community, to share the love of Jesus and let them know that we love and care about them. Our church did our 1st Trunk or Treat. We had many families participate by decorating their trunks, helping with set-up and clean-up, providing candy, etc. Thank you to our great church family for making this event a huge success. We handed out many gospel tracts, booklets about knowing Jesus as your personal Savior, and candy packets with the gospel message printed on them. We also got to speak to many people who do not attend our church or any church, with words of love and encouragement. John, you did an awesome job organizing this event! Way to go, Honey!!! Also, John's secretary, Jo, was an awesome help getting all the details in order. Thank you Jo!

Our family decorated our trunk with Veggie Tales. We've always been a huge fan of Veggie Tales, and since John was showing a Veggie Tale video at the end of Trunk or Treat ("Where is God when I'm Scared?"), I thought it would be a great idea to decorate our trunk with the characters. So, I traced them on cardboard and the boys helped me color them. The kids had a blast going around to the different trunks and playing their games. Bethany had to stay close to our van so I could keep an eye on her, so she really enjoyed putting candy in other kids sacks. She was very generous too, giving out lots of candy to each child.

Papa John even came along and handed out candy to the kids.

Here is Sweet Brenna. She got the most candy of all. I don't know how many times she went around to all the trunks, but it was alot! She would say, "Mommy, I'm going around again!" I finally had to tell her she had enough when her bag was so heavy that she could barely carry it. Too funny!!

One of our trunks was actually 3 trunks put together, and they had Karioke (sp?) set up for kids to come by and sing their favorite song. Here is a cute picture of Bethany and Brandon singing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.

Bethany and Bradley are chillin' in the back of our van enjoying a piece of their candy!

Here are my BMW's smiling one more time for their Mommy! Aren't they cute???

We pray that God will take this event, and every tract, booklet, piece of candy, etc. that was handed out last night, and use it to bring many people to know Him. Thank you Lord for allowing us to participate in this ministry.

Visit With A Dear Friend

2008-11-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday, our dear friend Kristi, from Paris, had to come to Austin for training related to her job! Lucky us, because we got to see her for a few hours. She even got to go to Brandon & Bradley's baseball game. What fun!!! We had a little bit of fun taking some pictures after the game too. You can see one of them below with our Hook'em Horns signs. Anyway, what a treat to get to spend some time with our sweet friend whom we don't get to see very often. We thank the Lord for the few hours we got to visit, laugh, and catch up on things we've missed. Friends are such treasures from the Lord. We love you Kristi and want to say "Thank You" for coming to see us! Meredith, we wish you could've come too!!! We love and miss you guys very much!

Moms Visit

2008-10-21T20:21:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, John's mom came to visit. What a treat to have "Moms" (this is what the grandkids call her) in our home. She got to see Brenna play soccer and also got to see Brandon and Bradley play baseball. We were thrilled to have her here for a visit. Moms, please come back again really soon! We love you!!! Enjoy this picture of she and the kids!

Heartbeats

2008-10-18T12:27:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who has prayed for Emma Cox. She is the two week old baby in our church that had open heart surgery this past Thursday to close a narrowing in her aorta and to see if the dr. could turn her one ventricle heart into a two ventricle chamber heart. God was awesome; and the dr. was able to do both of those things successfully. After an initial prognosis that was bleak in Austin, the doctors in Dallas at Children's Hospital have now given her a great prognosis after this successful six-hour surgery, despite being diagnosed with Down Syndrome. The most amazing thing for me was to see little Emma after the surgery. I stood in the hallway with Kristin and Chris, Emma's parents, outside the Operating Room as they rolled Emma back to her room after surgery. The dr. had spoken to us already to let us know that they left Emma's chest open because they did not want to add any more trauma to her already long day of surgery (the dr. closed her chest yesterday). So when we saw Emma, the incision in her chest was only covered with a piece of mesh or some kind of surgical tape. When her heart (which is only the size of a walnut) would beat, I was able to see the heart literally lift out of her chest through the opening. I was simply speechless. What an incredible, awesome God our heavenly Father is. He literally holds our heartbeat in His hands.
Please continue to pray for Emma's speedy recovery and complete healing. posted by John

A Trip to the Farm

2008-10-17T21:03:00.000-07:00

Bethany's class at her preschool went on a field trip yesterday to Crowe's Nest Farms. I had the opportunity to go with she and her class. What an adventure with three 3-yr. old preschool classes at a farm. Thankfully, lots of parents went along to help keep up with all the little adventurous preschoolers. Here are a few photos from the day. We did lots of fun things. We went on a hay ride, saw lots of farm animals, had a cow-milking demonstration, learned about ostrich's, and had a picnic.

Bethany liked these little animal statues. Thought she'd try one out!

They had several snakes there to look at. Bethany was not scared of these at all. You can see how closely she was looking at them. This particular snake was even moving his head close to the glass, and it didn't even bother her. She said, "I like it, Mommy!" I'm glad she does, because I hate snakes!!!!

She's not afraid of goats either! Here she is climbing on the fence right up next to this goat's face! The goat thought one of us was going to feed it. I'm glad Bethany didn't try to feed him!

Here we are in front of their pumpkin patch! What a fun day!!! Thank you Lord, for all you've made for us to enjoy!

Views on Marriage from McCain/Obama

2008-10-17T20:48:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of issues in this presidential race between McCain & Obama. The economy has taken center stage. Iraq, the war, national security, and foreign policy have gotten a lot of press as well. All of those issues and others are important to me. But for me as a Christian with a biblical worldview, where the candidates stand on the family, marriage, and abortion are the most important issues in determining who gets my vote. Here's a link that gives the candidates clear views, in their own words, on marriage and gay rights:

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29148

Here's a link from a lady whom God physically saved from death at birth, despite the fact that her mom attempted to abort her. Check out her story at the following websites & her crusade to take on one presidential nominee's record on abortion:

http://www.citizenlink.org/content/A000008470.cfm
www.bornalivetruth.org

God help us. posted by John

The Great Moon Adventure & Worship

2008-10-14T19:14:00.000-07:00

Sunday night after AWANA, Brenna wanted to ride home with me. As we drove home Brenna was looking out the window; and as I turned from going one direction to the next, she noticed that the moon would change locations (from her perspective) when I turned. It struck up a very unique conversation with me and Brenna (mostly one-sided) about - of all things - the moon.
The conversation went something loosely like this: Daddy, why is the moon moving in the sky? The moon actually stays in the same place, honey. It just looks like it is in a different place every time daddy turns or goes a different direction.
Daddy, if you touched the moon will it burn you? No, the moon won't burn you.
Daddy, have you ever been to the moon? No, I haven't Brenna. I've been to the moon, she said. How did you get there? I inquired. It's a long, long way to the moon. I stood on top of MawMaw and PawPaw's head. Oh really, I said. MawMaw and PawPaw are not tall enough to help you reach the moon. If you stand on their heads, you won't be able to do it. Well, she said, there were a thousand stools stacked up on top of each other to help me reach the moon. Where did you get those stools? MawMaw took me to all the Wal-Marts in Longview to get all the stools. Who paid for all those stools? MawMaw and PawPaw did. I don't know if you could reach the moon even if you're standing on top of 1,000 stools. If you can't, how are you going to touch the moon? PawPaw will throw me all the way up to the moon. You're PawPaw must be very, very strong. :)
Well, you get the picture. Brenna has a very active and creative imagination. Thank you, God, for giving it to her. She also has the gift of gab; and in this 15-minute ride home from church where Brenna barely came up for air in-between all her moon questions and my feeble attempts to answer them to her satisfaction, something unique happened. I had an encounter with God. That's right - I worshipped God with my four-year old through a silly conversation about the moon. Thank you, heavenly Father, for creating the moon as an instrument, not to be worshipped, but that could stimulate worship. It did for me. I look at the moon and am in awe at Your incredible handiwork. I look at and listen to Brenna; and I'm likewise stunned and amazed at Your masterpiece work of human art that she is. Help me not to miss the 15-minutes of memorable, magical moments of worship that are waiting in future conversations with each of my children or my wife or a stranger as well as in Wal-Mart or at the gas station or in my car or at work. I'm sure I miss them way too often. But I know that only You, God, can take the mundane and average elements of daily life & use them to create personal, life-changing reminders of Your greatness, goodness, and faithfulness. Help me watch for Your creative genius in these times; and when I do, to stop and worship You - in prayer or in song, out loud or in silence, at work or at play, at home or away, whether pleasant or painful. Because when I truly encounter You, I can never stay the same. In the words from Steven Curtis Chapman's song "Moment Made For Worshipping", every moment is truly one that is made for worshipping:

This is a moment made for worshipping

Cause this is a moment I'm alive

And this is a moment I was made to sing

A song of living sacrifice

For every moment that I live and breathe

This is a moment made for worshipping

Now, who's ready to go to the moon? posted by John

Needs Prayer

2008-10-13T21:19:00.000-07:00

We have several critical needs in need of prayer in our circle of family and friends. Thank you for praying on behalf of these we love: 1) Emma Rae Cox (10 days old) pending heart surgery sometime the end of this week at Children's Hospital in Dallas; 2) One of my sister Janie's very good friends, Jamie Young, passed away today after nearly a five year battle with leukemia. She was only 36. Pray for her husband Ty and her mom and their family. 3) Beth Lee - diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. She'll be having a mastectomy on Wednesday. She and her husband Paul and boys Austin and Adam are good friends of ours and are a part of our previous church (East Paris B.C.) in Paris, Texas. 4) Pete Sisson - critical condition after surgery with infection and pneumonia. Pete is the husband of the financial secretary that I worked with at East Paris. Her name is Betty Sisson. Please remember each of these very important needs in prayer. We serve a big God; and he implores us to "...approach the throne of grace with confidence that we might find help in our time of need." Hebrews 4:16 posted by John

Christmas Trees, Pumpkins, and Lots of Fun!!

2008-10-13T15:20:00.000-07:00

We made a trip today to the Elgin Christmas Tree Farm! The boys were out of school today, so we thought we'd enjoy some family time! They had lots to do there! The kids enjoyed seeing some farm animals. They jumped in the hay, went on a hay ride, ran through a hay bale maze (being chased by their daddy), chose a pumpkin to bring home, and smiled for lots and lots of pictures for their mommy! Here are a few shots from today!

Cute, Cute!

Posing on a tractor made from hay bales!

I love this picture! Here are the guys in mid-jump, jumping from the hay bale tractor!

Bethany was walking up ahead of me at one point today. I called her name and as she turned to look at me, she posed for the camera! Look at her foot! Too funny!

Brenna is sometimes my hard one to get a good picture out of. But, I actually got this really good one of her. She was looking at her daddy, but I thought it turned out really well. You can even see the Christmas trees in the back ground. I loved this place! We'll definately have to go again!

Two Praise Reports!

2008-10-11T17:21:00.000-07:00

I have two praise reports to share with you. The first one is about the darling little baby girl in the previous post, Emma Cox. She has been moved to Children's Hospital in Dallas, and will have surgery the end of next week. She is not out of the woods, but the family is very hopeful by the news they received yesterday. Please see their website below for updates on baby Emma! Also, please continue to pray for this precious baby and her entire family.

www.caringbridge.org/visit/emmaraecox

The other update I wanted to share with you is about our friends, Kevin and Shanna Sherman. You probably remember from previous posts that Kevin had brain surgery not long ago. I spoke with Shanna on the phone today and she said they are doing really well. Kevin has been in rehab but is now home. He still has some obstacles to overcome but this will take time. Please continue to pray for them. Two specific things to pray for are his vision and his speech. These were effected by the surgery. Thank you for remembering our friends and for continuing to lift them up. God is so BIG and is totally able to heal him completely. I'm asking Him to do that! Kevin and Shanna, we love you and are so thankful for what God continues to do in your family. He is good!

Emma Rae Cox

2008-10-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

This beautiful baby is Emma Rae Cox. She was born last Friday, Oct. 3. The proud parents are Chris and Kristin Cox, the proud big brother is 15 month old Colton. This sweet young family are a part of our FBC Pflugerville family, and they need your immediate and constant prayers for Emma. They knew she would be born with some major heart problems that would have to be treated with medicine and surgery pretty quickly after her birth. What they did not anticipate was that she would be diagnosed with Down Syndrome. As I was in the room with them late yesterday afternoon, the dr. confirmed this diagnosis. With Emma's heart condition, this is not a good combination. Their options are limited; but we serve a great God. Please join me in praying for wisdom, strength, guidance, grace, mercy, life, health, & healing for Emma and this sweet family. You can check out more info regarding Emma's birth and family and condition at the following website: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/emmaraecox

I will keep you posted on her condition and prognosis. She is currently at Dell Children's Medical Center here in Austin. Thank you. posted by John

Happy 66th Birthday Papa John!

2008-10-07T19:25:00.000-07:00

Today is Papa John's 66th birthday! John and I treated him to some yummy Mexican food for lunch today, his choice (pretty good choice in my opinion). The kids showered him with surprises this afternoon. They always get so excited when it's time to give gifts. They wrapped the gifts themselves and proudly came downstairs for Papa to open his prizes. Brenna and Bethany treated him to a new Longhorn t-shirt. Brenna also made him some pictures. Brandon and Bradley bought him a new Longhorn ball cap with their own money. Bradley also drew Papa a picture of a Longhorn. You can see it in the picture below. Overall, Papa had a great day! Happy Birthday Papa!!! We love you and thank God for you!

Look At This Cute Little Pillow

2008-10-07T19:11:00.000-07:00

I was letting Brenna watch her favorite cartoon, "Barney" yesterday. I walked into the living room and saw her curled up in this pillow case. I had a stack of clean laundry on the coffee table and she helped herself because she was cold. I thought she looked so cute so I grabbed my camera. There have been so many cute moments that I've missed because the camera wasn't handy. But this time, I was able to capture this cute moment! Enjoy!

A Trip to the Dinosaur Park

2008-10-04T16:21:00.000-07:00

Brenna's preschool class had the opportunity to go the Dinosaur Park last week. John was also along for the fun and got some cute shots of Brenna and her friends. Someone even got this funny one of John & Brenna in the mouth of a T-Rex! Yikes!!! They had a great time! WeeOnes is a wonderful preschool program and our girls are enjoying it so much!

I love the grin on Brenna's face here!

Daddy had lots of fun too, can you tell??

Here is Brenna and her buddy Garret. John said they held hands all day! When I asked Brenna about this, she said she was keeping Garret from going into the woods. Garret called it the forest! They are too cute! Hope you enjoy the pictures!

Bye for now!

Praise Report and "Thank You" from Kevin & Shanna Sherman

2008-10-01T12:01:00.000-07:00

I spoke with my friend Shanna on the phone yesterday and was thrilled to hear her say that she and Kevin were on their way to Abilene (which is where they live). Kevin has been released from the hospital in Dallas and has moved to a rehab facility in Abilene for a couple weeks. He is doing well and Shanna was very excited to be going home to see their children and to sleep in her own bed. She also wanted me to thank all of you for praying for them during this difficult weeks. Thank you Lord for all you've done and continue to do. We continue to ask You for a complete recovery for Kevin.

Go Diamond Jaxx!!!

2008-09-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

Saturday was Brandon & Bradley's 1st baseball game of the fall season. They are both on the same team this season, The Diamond Jaxx! This is Brandon's 3rd season to play. His 1st season of baseball was interrupted by a broken wrist, so this is actually his 2nd season to get to really play ball. He's working so hard and doing very well. He had the option to play one more season of coach pitch, so that is what we decided to do. It will give him another season of practice before moving up to kid-pitch.

This is Bradley's 1st time ever to play baseball and he has taken it very seriously. The only position he has shown interest in playing is catcher. He's talked about buying his own catcher's equipment and is actually saving his own money to buy it. He was so excited Saturday when his coach started him out as catcher. He was grinning from ear to ear as he walked out on the field with all the gear on. Of course, it is so bulky, it's hard to move about quickly. We were very proud of him. He did very well as catcher! At one point, Brandon played on the pitcher's mound alongside the pitching coach. He actually caught a pop-up ball hit by the other team which resulted in an out! Go Brandon!!!

Here are our guys ready to go! They were ready to get dressed way before it was time for the game to start!

Here is Brandon up to bat for the 1st time in the game. If you can enlarge this picture you will see him grinning from ear to ear!

Bradley's big "Catching" debut!!!

FIREPROOF

2008-09-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

"People never crumble in a day. Daddys never crumble in a day. Families never crumble in a day. It's a slow fade." - Mark Hall (lead singer for Casting Crowns from the song "Slow Fade")

What a penetrating truth that is. People don't crumble overnight. Families don't disintegrate and deteriorate in a day. Marriages don't go into shambles in a week. It happens day by day. Days turn into weeks, then months, then years. Convictions compromised. Expectations lowered. Time passes. Hearts harden. Spouses grow a part. Anger escalates. Faith diminishes. Priorities change. Consumed by busyness. Do more - accomplish less. Children neglected. Pain intensifies. Emotions drained. Foundations fractured. Commitments forgotten. Love replaced. Pornography. Debt. Stress. Collateral damage. Desperation. Separation. Divorce. Dysfunction. Broken lives. Devestation. It's a slow fade. Sound familiar? Look familiar? Look around. It's everywhere. What is the answer? Is there an answer? Yes there is. His name is Jesus.

Our marriages and our relationships within those marriages (husbands & wives; parents & children; siblings with siblings) need desperate attention. The movie FIREPROOF comes out today. It is a movie with a Christian worldview that addresses many of these issues; and most importantly, points people to Jesus. I want to strongly encourage you (and your spouse, if you're married) to go see this movie. I would also strongly encourage you to invite others to go with you, especially those who may be struggling within their marriage or in their walk with God or who may not have a relationship with God through Jesus. You can check out info regarding the movie at: www.fireproofthemovie.com We spend our time and money on a lot of insignificant and meaningless movies. This movie will be a wise investment of your time, money, and future; and could change their eternal destiny (and yours). Tell everyone you know about it. posted by John

Out of the Mouth of Babes

2008-09-25T20:20:00.000-07:00

I had the joy of going on a field trip today with Brenna and her Wee Ones class at church. We made the venture to "The Dinosaur Park." It was a very fun trip with Brenna and 31 other 4-year olds. While walking down the trail looking at the dinosaur replicas, I was visiting with our Youth Pastor, Tom Cottar, about he and his wife Heather who just found out that their expecting their 3rd child. Their son, Dillon, is in Brenna's class and will turn five years old on Friday. I was talking to Dillon about his birthday plans when he made a startling announcement. "I'm having a baby," he said. I said, "Really, I'll have to tell your mom that." Without missing a beat, Dillon said, "She already knows." I cracked up outloud seriously (as did his dad). Happy Birthday, Dillon! Congratulations, Tom and Heather. posted by John

More Encouraging News!

2008-09-25T06:54:00.001-07:00

Here is the latest update on Kevin. Thanks for continuing to pray for his complete healing!

Kevin worked hard today, he even sat up in an uncomfortable chair. We saw the speech pathologist and the physical therapist today. The physical therapist got him in the chair and left, but the speech pathologist evaluated him. She got him to write and discuss his job among other things. He was able to get his thought across with a little help and she was very encouraged. She says it is to early for a diagnosis, but he has a little receptive and expressive aphasia. That means he has a little trouble understanding (receptive) and speaking (expressive). The good news is that he knows he has the problem. Many patients who come out of surgery don't realize they have a problem which makes it much more difficult to fix. Kevin is extremely motivated to do better. He wants to keep talking and working on getting things in order. If he improves as much tomorrow as he did today he will be back in no time. One of the residents talked to Shanna and Kevin about a two week in house rehab program to expedite the recovery process, so I think we are going to look into it. The first 3 months are the best for a fast recovery and Kevin is ready to learn. All in all the best day yet.

A Great Report on Kevin

2008-09-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

I received this wonderful report on our friend Kevin this morning! Praise the Lord for all He continues to do!

He is back. I just had an hour and half conversation with Kevin, and I mean the old Kevin. He called me by my name for the first time and asked me when I was going to Corpus to put the house back together after the hurricane. He still isn't thinking real clear, because when I asked him if he remembered that I told him that the Cowboys won their second game he said (with tears in his eyes) that he did but that, that didn't matter to him for some reason. What mattered to him was us and friends like Leck and George, so we got all emotional about what is really important and how to hang on to it. Now you can see that he is really back to the old loving and caring Kevin. Iwish all of you could be here to see and feel what we saw and felt, he was more eloquent than usual. He is ready to get into a room so he can keep talking and get things sorted out, but guess what, he is 8th on the list and it is NOT going to happen today unless we get lucky. Kevin was selling, selling, selling, and even tried to bribe them with cup cakes, all to no avail. Well that's all for now.

Let Us Pray

2008-09-24T06:04:00.000-07:00

"Prayer does not equip us to do the greater work of God. Prayer is the greater work of God." - Oswald Chambers

That true quote on prayer debunks all the gobbly-gook about prayer being an idle pastime or a waste of time. Quite the opposite - it is the best possible use of my time.

Today is the international student day of prayer - better known as "See You at the Pole." It started some 19 years ago with a group of students in Burleson, Texas who wanted to make a difference on their school campus for Christ. I would say that they succeeded.

The first SYATP happened on Sept. 12, 1990; and around the world (literally) today millions of elementary, pre-teen, jr. high, high school, and college students will stand up, stand up for Jesus on their campus. My boys, Brandon and Bradley, were two of those students (way to go, guys. Daddy is so proud of you!). We went to their school campus, Nadine Johnson Elementary School, early this morning. We arrived about 7:15 a.m. There was no scheduled or structured time of prayer. So we went to the flag pole and prayed. What a thrill and joy for me as their dad to pray with and for them on their school campus. We prayed for their campus, administrator, teachers, and students - many who don't know Jesus in a personal way. I prayed that God would use Brandon and Bradley as a shining light in this dark world shining their light - Jesus - to all who see them. We prayed the same for students worldwide today. I hope you will as well. Parents, grandparents, church leaders, fellow brothers and sisters in Christ: join me today and everyday in prayer for this generation of students to make an eternal difference for God's Kingdom on their greatest mission field - their school campus. In the words of Steven Curtis Chapman from his song "Let Us Pray":

Let us pray, let us pray; everywhere and every way

Every moment of the day it is the right time.

Let us pray without end and when we finish start again

Like breathing out and breathing in

Let us pray.

"Pray without ceasing." 1 Thessalonians 5:17

posted by John

Whose Your Real Daddy?

2008-09-23T18:43:00.000-07:00

Jennifer took the boys to baseball practice tonight, and I stayed home with the girls. Jennifer needed some time to work on her Bible study, and she did that while the boys practiced. I played "crack the egg" with the girls on the trampoline for a while. After that, they got a bath and got ready for bed. We came downstairs where I read them two of our favorite books, both by Liz Curtis Higgs - "The Pumpkin Patch Parable" and "The Pine Tree Parable." After reading both these books, which emphasize spiritual truths about the seasons of harvest and Christmas, Brenna began a discussion about God and her "real" daddy. "I want to talk to my real daddy," she said. "Baby," I said, "we don't know who your real daddy is." Little did I realize that her thought process was much deeper than mine. I was thinking in the physical realm. She was on the spiritual realm. "I'm talking about God, daddy. God is my real Daddy." "Yes, He is. He is your real Daddy." I didn't have to tell her that. I just had to agree and affirm the truth that she was stating. I'm not sure that she grasps the truth fully; but I believe she gets more of it than I realize she does.
The physical truth is that we don't know who Brenna's biological dad is. We never have; and we never will - never. Now Brenna may struggle with that when she gets a little older; but I'm hoping and praying and believing that it won't matter. I say that with cautious confidence because she, as a beautiful 4 1/2 year old, understands something much deeper and much more significant than knowing who her biological dad is. She knows that I'm her daddy; and that I love her very much as my own. She also knows that God, our heavenly Daddy, is "a father of the fatherless..." (Psalm 68:5). Simply put, God is her biological "real" daddy, and I'm her earthly "real" daddy. So as she gets older and wants to know more about who her biological father is and struggles with the reality that she'll never know, I'll be honest and open and transparent with her (and Brandon and Bradley and Bethany) and remind them all frequently that God is the Father to the fatherless and pray that they will rest in that reality and truth. posted by John

More Good News!

2008-09-22T20:29:00.000-07:00

I received more good news this evening on our friend, Kevin.

The day is almost over and he is totally disconnected from all lines. He still wants the oxygen line on, i think it is a safety blanket. He has his favorite nurse tonight so we are looking for a good night. He will probably be moving to a room tomorrow. When he gets to a room he will have to go to the bathroom by himself and eat on his own. It will be a little scary but we are ready and excited.

Another Good Report

2008-09-22T08:29:00.000-07:00

Here is another good report on our friend Kevin sent this morning at 9:55 a.m.

This is the email I have been waiting to write.It is a great morning. Kevin smiled, he is coming out of the anesthesia He knows Shanna and even said her name. He recognized Martha and called her Mom and asked about Dad. He knows he will get better and said "it will come". the nurse said it (his awarness) will still come and go. A 1 degree rise in fever could set him back or even getting hungry, so for us not to get upset at a momentary set back, but he was coming back from the anesthesia and drugs. Now we just need to see how far back he comes. We are all smiles. No matter how much or many times we are told about the effects of anesthesia it is good to know that they told us the truth. we are smiling so big it brings tears to our eyes. thanks for all your prayer.

Kevin...Making Good Progress

2008-09-21T19:28:00.000-07:00

This update was sent tonight:

Dear all Doctor just left and is really happy with kevins progress, the fact that heis talking is huge, many don't talk this soon after surgery. He said "I spent a lot of time moving his brain around and it is swollen and until the swelling goes down he is going to be cofused. We/he is going to see a speech pathologist tomorrow. He may get to eat soon. He told shanna he loved her. Things keep looking up.

Thank you Lord for more great news!

More Kevin Updates - Great News!!!

2008-09-21T12:09:00.001-07:00

I received two more updates on our friend Kevin that I wanted to share with you. They are posted below:

This update is from Saturday, about 3:45 in the afternoon:
Little update. The breathing tube is out. Oxygen levels are good. HE CAN TALK, not making much sense, still coming out of the anesthesia, but the words are clear. We are getting happier.

This update is from today shortly after noon:
Well he is being funny. The anesthesia is still in his system and he is talking silly. It is making for some funny stories. The nurses say they are really surprised at how quick he is coming back. The tube is out he is drinking and the 17hrs are starting to wear off. It could take a couple more days.

It sounds like he is coming along nicely! Praise be to God!!!

Another Update

2008-09-20T12:57:00.001-07:00

I just received this update on Kevin:

Kevin slept good. He did wake up a little and wanted tubes out. Bloodpressure good. They are not letting anyone back to see him. They want himcalm. He is pretty swollen. The artiria (sp) gram showed that they got itall. Shanna stayed with him last night. Everything is moving forward. Thenext 48 hrs are the critical ones. More later.

Thank you for praying for he and his family. I'm praising God for a successful surgery! I'm now praying for minimal or no effects from the surgery. I pray that his eye sight, speech and memory will be completely normal when he wakes up fully. Please continue to pray for Kevin, Shanna, their children, and the rest of their family.

"Soccer Ball" Girl Debut

2008-09-20T08:29:00.000-07:00

Today was Brenna's very first soccer game and she was very cute! She calls the sport "Soccer Ball" instead of soccer. Her team has 3 boys and 3 girls on it, and they played 3 kids at a time. We had lots of fun, and also had lots of laughs. At this age, they are very cute and also very funny when they play. I got some cute pictures of her before the game.

My "Soccer Ball" Girl! Please excuse the shin guards. Mommy didn't realize that they were supossed to be inside the socks! I'm still learning! We fixed them at the field.

Brenna and "her boys" (so she calls them). They were proud big brothers today!

Daddy and his "Soccer Girl". He couldn't be more proud!

Mommy and the girls!

Here she is about to kick the ball!

Kevin's Surgery is Over

2008-09-20T06:05:00.000-07:00

Well, Kevin's surgery is finally over after about 16-17 hours (not sure of the exact time). Below is an email update from Shanna's mom:

Kevin is out. It is over. The AVM is gone. Dr. said it was tenacious. They took their time and felt like they did a really good job. It took 7 units of blood. You can imagine what it would have taken it he had not had 3 embolizations. The skull bone is left out because of possible swelling. They just closed his skin. The bone will be replaced in about a month. The Dr. said our guess is as good as his about speech, sight, etc. After Kevin wakes up we will know more about any problems that he may have. Dr. Welch is on call this weekend and Kevin will be waking up slowly because of how long the operation took. Tomorrow morning at 7 they will do a routine angiogram to check for bleeding. The Dr. said that he would be surprised if there was any bleeding because they were so carefull. Shanna can see him in about 30 minutes, and for the most part the rest of us are going to the hotel to rest. We will give another update after the angiogram. Thanks so much for all of the prayers and thoughts. You helped Kevin pull through.
Love to you all,
The Family

The Wal-Mart Witch

2008-09-18T20:39:00.000-07:00

The onset of Halloween propaganda is upon us; and it's only September 18. And it started well before this day. Only six weeks to go - great. Lest you have any doubt about what I think and how I feel about this "holiday", let me set the record straight - I hate it. There's not one single thing that I like about it. What's to like about witches and ghosts and goblins? My wife walked in to Wal-Mart this afternoon with my four kids no less; and right at the front of the store in full view of everyone was a life-sized, green-faced, decked-out-in-black, eerily-talking, scary-looking witch holding a crystal-ball with a skull inside. Yeah - that's what I want my kids exposed to. Thanks Wal-Mart (and every other retailer going the extra mile to promote the most wicked and evil "holiday" on the planet)! I'm glad we can depend on you to promote & choose that which is family friendly over the almighty pursuit of another dollar - NOT!
OK - enough already. Wal-Mart and other like-minded, Halloween-hungry retailers are an easy scapegoat; but they're not the reason I have such disdain for this. The truth is that I'm a Christian; and I don't want my family and children exposed to anything that is remotely related or connected to (as far as it is within my control) Halloween. Although the Bible does not give direct prohibitions regarding Halloween, it does give clear admonition and caution regarding that which is evil and dark in 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22. It says, "Test everything. Cling to that which is good. Abstain from every form of evil." BE CAREFUL. BE SURE. BEWARE. posted by John

Kevin Is In Surgery

2008-09-18T20:01:00.001-07:00

When I got home this afternoon, I checked my email and found this email from Kevin's wife, Shanna. I thought I would share it with you:

To Our Precious Family and Friends,

I just wanted to send a quick note to you all. They took Kevin back at @ 6:30 this morning. He was a little groggy from lack of sleep and many, many drugs. He saw the kids this morning and they got to tell him they love him. He was secure in the knowledge that all is in God's hands. I read Due. 31:6 to him and that is where we left it. I want to let you all know how much I appreciate everything you have done for all of us. We could not make it without your love, suppport, and prayers. Please continue to pray for us today as we finish up with his surgery and in the days ahead as he recovers. God is so good.

We love you,
Shanna, Kevin, Blake, Connor, Daniel, Nikki, MaryGrace

Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or terrified for the Lord your God goes with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you.
Deu.31:6

What a wonderful verse to hear before going into surgery. The promise that we do not have to be afraid, because God is with us through every circumstance of life. Thank you Lord for always keeping your promises.

Something else I wanted to mention that I thought was very sweet. This prayer came from my 4-yr. old daughter at the lunch table today. After singing her "Thank you God for the food" song, she prayed ever so sweetly, "God, please help our friend Kevin, and help the doctor's not to make any mistakes." I couldn't have said it better myself. I'll post more as I hear!

3rd Embolization is Complete

2008-09-18T20:01:00.000-07:00

Below is the update I just received about Kevin:

To all. He is out. And all is well. Took over 5 hr. No complication. Next procedure6:30 in the morning. We are all a little shakey, but hanging in there. The kids will be here soon and that will help shanna get through. The operationwill be a long one so don't expect anything early. Hopefully before 5:00.

I talked with Shanna on the phone this afternoon and she sounded good but very tired. She has been staying in the hospital with Kevin except when he's been in ICU.

Thank you for your continued prayers for our friends! Tomorrow is his actual surgery and it could take up to 15 hours. I will post an update when I receive it.

Good Night for Kevin

2008-09-17T13:11:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone! I just got another update on our friend Kevin Sherman. Below is a note from his father-in-law:

Good morning to all.

Kevin had a good night last night. He slept good or as good as you can when you get prodded every hour and a half. The schedule has changed. He was going to have the procedure at 7 this morning, but he is now going 2ND, not first. I'm/we are not sure what that means time wise. The procedure will probably start by 11 or 12, which means it will be over between 3 and 5. I will update you then if I can, because if it is to late my relay manager (Omar) may be gone. As a side note Shanna got a good nights sleep and is ready for another day of waiting. All in all things are going great.

Please continue to lift him up in prayer! Our God is Big and He remains faithful! Thank you Lord for what you've done so far and what you are going to do in healing Kevin!

Harder Day for Kevin

2008-09-17T13:11:00.000-07:00

I just got this update on our friend Kevin Sherman. Please continue to pray for he and his family. He has 1 more embolization procedure tomorrow and then his brain surgery is Friday. Here is the update from his father-in-law:

Last night wasn't good, lots of pain and discomfort, which causes his blood pressure to go up. Imagine laying on your back for a 4 hr procedure and then 9 hours to keep you leg from bleeding. You would have back pain too. His head is hurting too. They want the blood pressure below 120 so keeping him out of pain is important. If we get the pressure under control he will move to a room if not he will stay in ICU till the next procedure tomorrow. I will update you more when there is more to report.

As you can see, his day yesterday was much harder. I also had an email from his wife Shanna that said he has been in alot of pain and they pretty much have to keep him knocked out to keep his blood pressure down. One good thing is, their children are coming to Dallas to the hospital tomorrow night and will be there on Friday for the surgery. I know they will be thrilled to see their kids.

So, if you keep up with our blog, please stop for a moment and lift this family up to the Lord. They need God's healing power to touch Kevin's body and bring complete healing to him. I'll update when I hear more! Thanks for praying for our dear friends!

The Reality of Life in a Fallen World

2008-09-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

"Thank You." "The Anchor Holds." "I Pledge Allegiance to the Lamb." "The Altar." "Watch the Lamb." "Feel the Nails." This list could on and on and on. The question: what do all these song titles have in common? The answer: they're all songs by former contemporary Christian musician Ray Boltz. If you're remotely familiar with any of his music, you probably know that it is widely popular in Christian circles and sung probably weekly across the nation. I even sung his song "Thank You" when my grandparents renewed their vows at their 50th wedding anniversary.
I was in staff meeting yesterday when I heard the news. Our associate pastor got the email. He gasped out loud. Ray Boltz admitted that he has been and is currently living a homosexual lifestyle. No hint of change. No sign of repentence. No kidding. If that's not a reality check, I don't know what one is. I guess I shouldn't be surprised or shocked. But the truth is, I was and am. Our world is messed up. I may write more on this later - after I finish throwing up. God help us. posted by John

My Adventurous Little 3-Year Old

2008-09-15T20:26:00.000-07:00

As you scroll down and see the photo at the end of this post, you will see a situation that my sweet little 3-year old often finds herself in. She so often gets herself in a place where all she knows to do is cry out for help. That is what happened this afternoon while I was trying desperately to finish cooking supper. The girls were playing out on the back porch while the boys finished their homework. When the back door opened, I heard sounds coming from Bethany that indicated there was a problem. I walked over to the door to find her hanging from the top bar of the porch swing. She was afraid to let go and looked even more panicked as her hands began to slip. She seemed relieved when I walked over and helped her down. I caught her not long ago in the same type of situation except she was hanging from the ledge at the bottom of the stair rail. I'm thankful that God's hand is on her protecting her in ways that I don't even see. She's my child who has scared me the most. She's also been to the ER more than any of my other 3 children. She climbs, flips, hangs from things, and thinks she can try to do anything her siblings do. So, hope you enjoy the picture. It will definately be one I have to scrapbook!

Big Girls Bunk Beds

2008-09-14T20:49:00.000-07:00

Brenna and Bethany now think that they are super big girls after sleeping in their new bunk beds. A family in our church blessed us with these beds and the girls are so proud of them. Brenna is the queen of her castle now, and Bethany is enjoying a bigger bed. This is a step up from the toddler bed that she is used to. Thought you would enjoy this picture of the girls on their new beds.

Another update on Kevin

2008-09-12T10:11:00.000-07:00

I received another email update this morning about our friend Kevin Sherman. It is posted below:

Just left Kevin and he is doing great. I had about a 15 minute conversationfrom health to hurricanes. He had a good night all in all. They did a CATscan at 2:00 for everyone on the floor (they do that every night) and thedoctor said that everything was normal(no bleeding). His eye lid still won'topen all the way but he can see out of it, and the doc says he is pleasedwith it. It may still take a month or so to get back to normal. He has aheadache which is to be expected. he will be getting into a room thismorning or early afternoon. his spirits are good. Carolyn and I will becoming back to Abilene this afternoon for homecoming. The next embolizationis tuesday so don't expect much more updating till then. No news is goodnews.

Thanks for your continued prayers!

1 Embolization Down, 2 To Go!

2008-09-11T17:57:00.000-07:00

I received an update on our friend Kevin Sherman today. His first embolization was this morning and went well. Below is the email update I received from Shanna's dad:

Well the good news is it took a little longer than we thought so they plugged
a few more vessels than they thought. Kevin's left pupil is a little larger
because the had to tug on one of the vessel to remove the needle and they
bruised a nerve, he will have good night vision for a while, but it should go
back down in a month or so. They did a CAT scan to check for bleeding and
they did not see anything bad. He is in ICU today but will probably get into
a room on Saturday and then the next embolization will be on Tuesday. All is
well so far. Keep us in your prayers and things will be okay.

Kevin's next embolization is next Tuesday, the 16th. Please continue to pray for him and his family. If you're not aware of this situation, please scroll down to a previous post titled "Please pray for our friend" and the details are there. I've sent word to Shanna that all of you are praying for them. She was very encouraged and said she felt "covered in prayer". Praise God for a good report today!! Thank you Lord!

Declarations and Questions (of a four-year old)

2008-09-10T20:30:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday night I was on my way home from church with Brenna. We stopped at a red light just a few blocks from the church. As we waited for the light to turn green, a big firetruck came roaring past us. Brenna asked me if they were going to help someone who was hurt. I told her it was very possible that they were going to help someone in need. Without hesitation, she made her first amazing declaration of the evening, "We need to pray!" she said. And so we did. We prayed for unknown people facing unknown challenges being cared for by unknown firemen and paramedics. We prayed. Brenna informed me that everytime she hears or sees sirens, she stops to pray and ask God to help those in need. When I told Jennifer about our firetruck encounter, she told me that Brenna had been praying each time she saw emergencies in progress. Sirens. Emergencies. People in need. We need to pray! If my four-year old gets it, I can't believe how often I or others like me don't get it. When the sirens of life indicating an emergency go off, our initial and immediate response should be to pray. Thank you, Brenna, for reminding your daddy about the priority of prayer. God says, "Call unto Me, and I will answer you..." (Jeremiah 33:3)

Later that night, I was praying with Brenna at bedtime. I had just prayed for our families in Houston and for their safety and protection from the approaching storm off the Texas coast. Brenna asked me if the storm was coming towards Houston where our family was. I told her yes, and that is why we were praying for them. As I was leaving her room, she asked me a speech-stopping question. "Why is God doing this, daddy?" For Brenna, my silence was deafening and all too long. I'm sure my speechless seconds seemed like an eternity to her. I couldn't believe the question on everyone's mind was verbalized by my concerned, compassionate four-year old. After an eternity of silent seconds, she asked a second heart-wrenching question. "Is it so people will die?" For a change, there was not a hint of sarcasm or silliness in her voice. She was as serious as could be. And I remained, well, speechless. I knew in my mind that people had already died in the path of Hurricane Ike. And I knew the likelihood was good that others possibly would when it hit the U.S. mainland on the coast of Texas. So in her mind (and maybe in yours or others' mind), if God allowed this storm and could equally make it stop (as he did in Matthew 14:22-33) but chose not to, then is He responsible for any subsequent deaths from the storm that He allowed?

I prayed for wisdom in those brief but life-changing moments that God would give me the words to share with Brenna. I wanted to be honest with her, but I didn't want to wax eloquent in a manner that she wouldn't understand. In a nutshell, I simply shared with her that God allows storms like these so that people will trust Him and turn to Him. Do we really mean it when we pray and ask God to do "whatever it takes" to turn people to Him or turn people back to Him, especially those whom we love and care about? Will we trust Him even when He works in ways that make no sense humanly speaking? Thank you, Lord, for reminding me through my four-year old and Hurricane Ike that You are truly in control and completely trustworthy. posted by John