Gilligan Island Type Day!

Today I left home without a book to read, no laptop to connect to the internet with, and nothing for lunch. I felt like Gilligan's Island and their three hour tour:) I only had a doctor's appointment, which doesn't take very long and then pick up my medicines and go home. That's it. Simple day. Instead, I find out I have to wait three hours for an x-ray on my ankle. That meant I had to kill those three hours in town somehow.

I did, at least, have a cell phone that I can now text from. I also dug around and found some money so I could get lunch. Do you know that for $2.14 you can get a double cheeseburger and a large sweet tea at McDonalds? I took my lunch to our State Park so I could sit by the water and think and pray but the park was being worked on and there was no good place to sit. I did go to the amphitheater. It was pretty but the mosquitoes were so bad that I quickly returned to the car. I scrounged around until I found an old pen and note pad where I quickly wrote out this blog entry:)

Its just like our struggles in life. We can't see all the good that happens because of the pests that get in the way. Instead, we take cover and get in our survival mode. My Gilligan's Island type day did finally end. That's why this is now getting written (because I'm finally home) It was a pain but:

I have a friend dealing with her dad's recent death and having to say goodbye to her daughter and grandkids because they were moving.

Another friend who is knee-deep in fine arts camp at her church texted me and said she couldn't move her neck from side-to-side.

My day suddenly doesn't seem so bad. I had pen and paper, air conditioner in the car, and a cell phone. Really, what more could I ask for?

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Our Comfort

I got a call early this morning from my very good friend, Mari, from Washington. Her dad had died a couple hours before that. He fought a hard battle and after about four months, he was taken home to be with his Lord. It has to be such a relief to his family for them to know he is finally in no more pain but now they all have so much grief and pain of their own to go through.

The other day I was going through a rough time and was on the phone with Mari. We kept losing reception so I finally drug myself out of bed and went to our pool deck. I lay down and was looking up at the sky. In the clouds I saw what looked like an x-ray of a gigantic hand. I imagined it to be God's hand. It reminded me of how He is always here for me. He is here as each tear drips down my cheek. He is now there for my friend Mari and her family.

And He is there for all of you, too. He is our Comfort.

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Mixed Blessings!

We now have internet but it is definitely a mixed blessing. So far it is very slow. Ugh... It is storming, though, so hopefully it will get better. I won't say too many bad things about it yet. And with the storm, I got a powerful headache so it just isn't a very pleasant evening. But as in all things, "this too shall pass." I am thankful to be able to get online again. Jim worked on it during his lunch hour. He really tried to get me connected this afternoon but it just didn't happen.

And I got an email from my friend Laurie. Her son is flying home from Japan soon and she would like prayer about that. He's been teaching English in a high school there. It will be so nice to have him home again.

So, I am back online again, thanks to my talented husband and Skyway USA.

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So Many Questions

If anyone reads this that knows anything about writing for kids, I would love to be able to talk to you! I'm having trouble finding out what is an average word count for the different age groups. Do I just keep writing now and try to market it when I'm finished? Should I start now instead, while I'm still writing?

Maybe someone is reading this that knows someone that might know:) Is that sentence clear as mud? I really do want to finish it by the time summer is over. That gives me about a month. Surely I can get it done. But I have so many questions!

I would love to learn from anyone that has the answers or by anyone who has gone through this process. That would be awesome! So there it is, I've been reduced to begging! Please help me!!!!

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Random Sunday Thoughts

I have almost made it through the entire month of July blogging. That's pretty exciting and a big deal considering I've been on vacation for one week of it and then another week or two without the internet.

I know people who truly don't understand my pull to the internet. It makes me feel foolish to admit how much I really miss my internet at home. If I could pull out each friend I've made through Faithwriters, though, and through some of these Christian blogs I've found, and stand them up and introduce them to all of my friends from home, I'm sure everyone would understand. They are truly awesome, every one of them. So, I wouldn't say I'm addicted to the internet. I am drawn to my friends and the way to them is through the internet.

But, I do have to say, since my internet has been down, I've been writing on a project that I started through one of my challenge entries. I have over 4,000 words now. That is a really good chunk of a young teen book. I'm hoping to get it finished by the end of the summer. That is very exciting for me. To start something and finish it -- oh wow! what a concept!

And today, Kristen from Exemplify, said this about my blog:

Laury at In My Daddy’s Arms – Her blog is brilliant because of the rare glimpse she affords her readers into the real, raw, honest life of someone struggling with illness and aiming to live for His glory even still. Some days I read her words and am instantly reminded and encouraged of the eternal awesomeness coming for us.

The button to her blog is on the right side. You should go check it out. She is an awesome young writer. I just love reading her blog each day.
http://www.kristenschiffman.com/2008/07/brilliant-weblog-award-oh-me-oh-my.html

I pray for all of you who faithfully read my blog. I cherish your comments and prayers that you send my way. Hope your Sunday is mightily blessed!

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Culver's Food and the Net

Jim, Nik, and I are hanging out at Culver's while waiting for our food so I can be on the internet. I have to grab a signal whenever I can. Our new system has been mailed out so it will probably be here on Monday. But Jim is busy on Monday and can't set it up. I am still hoping it comes today but that really would be a miracle considering it was in Tennessee yesterday afternoon. Oh well, I still believe in miracles.

My cheeseburger is here now. Can't wait to be able to spend time with you all on my own internet:) Later, later:)

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Live in the Moment

I have now given over to whining. Be glad you aren't around me. Am a big ball of whiney mess. I called our new internet provider and the system hasn't been mailed out yet. Hopefully today it will get sent out but for sure tomorrow. Jim isn't home all day and night Monday so it really needs to come before that. Oh man. I can't believe how much I depend on the internet. So many of my friends are found in there, so it is for all of you I'm whining.

I do have something else to look forward to. In a couple of weeks, Peej and I will be taking a road trip together to Ohio. Maybe I've mentioned it here, don't remember, though, so I will repeat myself. It is well worth the repeat!

Peej and I have never once met but only live a few hours from each other. I can't wait to be "stuck" in the car with her. I am expecting it to be loads of fun. We are going to see our good friend Dee, another FW, who lives in Ohio. She is hosting another FW friend, Chrissy, from Australia. I can't wait but I am trying to learn to live in the moment. I did that while in Washington.

I truly enjoyed each moment there and it did make time seem to stand still. Usually I'm always looking forward to the next thing. I think this is one thing God is trying to teach me: to live in the moment. What a hard lesson but a very good one.

These are Mari, Amy, and my feet as we lived a most delightful moment at the Mari's beach on the Columbia River. What awesome memories I get to keep with me forever and ever.

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Baby Smooches

Today I am at my neighbor's house using their internet. Well, have been doing that all week but today I am going to babysit the youngest and the oldest kids while the rest go shopping. I love getting baby drool smeared on my cheek as Colten attempts to kiss me. So sweet. There's nothing like baby drool to get you up and wiping your face off:)

I am so ready to have internet again. Our provider came and took away our equipment yesterday. He said he couldn't get a signal anymore and let us out of our contract. We are very limited in our options so that was very scary. We chose Sky Way USA. I hope it was the right decision. It was made rather hastily but Jim knows how much I depend on the internet. I was really upset, am very upset. We've been without it since last Wednesday. That seems like an eternity.

But the good thing is that I'm getting loved all over by little girls and a baby boy. That is a really good thing right now. Am feeling very isolated and so lonely. Hopefully, between 3-5 days, we will have our internet back up and running (I hope running smoothly and fast) We've never heard of this company so that is kind of scary.

For now, I will get on whenever I am able and will enjoy the baby smooches I get while I'm logged in, with Colten sitting on my lap:)

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Pressing on...

I have been feeling incredibly good. I still have times that are bad, but for the most part, things are wonderful! I now have to learn to be well. Does that make sense? It doesn't to me, yet it does. I've been sick for so long that I have to turn my mind around and think opposite. "What do I get to do today?" instead of, "What can I do?" Many things are limiting me right now, such as money, but not my health. I am struggling with so much but I know I will come out better and stronger because of it.

"Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:13-14)

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I am sick of having no internet. Ugh. The internet guy called finally and said he will be out Wednesday or Thursday. Please pray for me. I am really sinking. I want to go back to the Mt. Ranier again. I want to walk down the path and look for wild flowers and throw snow balls.

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So Thankful

I am so very thankful for each breath I have so that I can praise God for the boatloads of blessings He's given me. I have a husband that puts up with me and my crazy moods. He loves me just because. Imagine that! I have kids that are pretty special, too. Wouldn't trade them for anything.

I have parents that support me and pray for me all the time. Am very thankful for that, too. They raised me to love the Lord and follow Him. What a blessing! Wow!

I also have friends who love me no matter what. I have friends here at home that I get to see and touch. They are incredibly special. I have a core group that listens to me and we get together for lots of fun.

I also have internet friends that keep me in check. We are together in an instant. It takes no pre-planning. Just turn on the computer and there they are, except, of course, when our internet is down. Then it isn't so easy.

Each family member and friend adds something special to my life. I am incredibly grateful for the powerful ways God has worked in my life. He gave me an amazing vacation with my friend Mari. I got rested and relaxed. Wow, was I ever relaxed. And the beginning of August I get another road trip with another Faithwriter friend, Peej, that I've not yet met but feel we have known and loved each other forever. We are going to Ohio to see another FW friend, Dee, along with Chrissy, from Australia. We'll be there for a couple of days. I can't wait for another adventure.

I am also feeling really well. The medicine is working great. I still have some down times but overall, I'm feeling wonderful. Best I've felt in eight years. Its scary for me to declare that but I am stepping out in faith. For now I will enjoy it. If circumstances change later, you all can help me deal:)

I, Laury Hubrich is so very thankful for all my blessings and if I were on the mountaintop again, I would shout it out for all to hear.

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What to do when the Internet is Down:)

One morning, I opened my eyes, stretched, got out of bed, turned on my laptop and the internet did NOT connect. Oh my! What to do? I remembered there is a whole big world out there, outside of the net:) Really!

Let's see:
*I cuddled with my hubby more.
*We've swam lots, even had a family moonlight swim last night.
*Got stung by wasps 3 times now (not so much fun but memorable! UGH...)
*Visited friends that I probably wouldn't have went to see that night (I needed to use their internet connection) but we also had a very nice visit, too.
*Let's see, I played with our neighbor girls and went swimming with them.
*Talked to my daughter up in her room late at night.
*Sat outside and talked on the phone, enjoying the full moon.

It hasn't been all that bad BUT I'm so ready for our internet to be fixed. Really I am! I hope to be online soon, on my own line:) Can't wait and I will be so much more grateful for it!

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Restaurants

aren't just for eating. They are an internet connection when your own is down. Even when you have to drive 20 minutes to get there. Hopefully I will weather this storm and last until we are online again. Ugh... Restaurants are NOT just for eating. They are for connecting with my friends when they live far away.

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Watery, Floaty Thoughts

While in the pool this morning with Nik, I lay on my back floating and thinking. I also looked for eagles that weren't there. Funny the thoughts a person can have while floating on top of the water. Watered down thoughts. Especially when your ears fill up and all sound is muted. Watery, floaty thoughts. That's all I've got for today: watered down thoughts that make no sense.

Our internet is still down. Please pray that it is fixed soon. Thank you:)

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Of Wasps and Pools

I discovered something this morning. I was happily splashing in our pool, the very first time this summer because it just now got clean enough for this girlie-girl:) and reached in to check the filter and got stung by a wasp. It wouldn't let go so I dunked down into the water. I really hope it drowned! Ugh...

My son said he knew the wasp nest was there. I'm really hoping Jim didn't know or I will be slightly irritated that he didn't do anything about it. I spent a nice time in the pool stretching, exercising, and floating but did my best to stay on my own side of the pool -- far, far away from the stingy wasps. They were very irritated that I dare invade their territory.

As I hung up clothes, though, they dared invade my area. Wasps, pools, and clotheslines don't mix. Something has got to go and I do believe it should be the wasps. That is only my opinion anyway. I'm sure they would have a different take on the matter.

I lay in bed this morning, struggling to get up, but knowing I needed to do it when I get the crazy idea to go swimming. For my reward, I get stung. Life seems to be a stingy experience somtimes. In order to live life, you sometimes have to hurt. Living and loving is so very painful but is so very worth it so I choose to live and love some more. I will try my best to stay away from the stingy stuff that will attempt to knock me out of life but if it attacks anyway, I'll get up, brush myself off, and go at it again. C'est la vie.

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The Day After

I am safely home. I've slept off and on. Such a hard trip down the mountain. Thank you to everyone that prayed and continues to pray. Looking back at the pictures, I see that I was incredibly swollen. My face is bad and when I got home last night I noticed my feet and ankles are, too. So weird. Hopefully its not my new medicine because everything about that medicine has been so good so far. At least I think so. It may have been God working in my life instead of the meds. I just don't know.

Our internet is down so this will be short. I'm at a friend's house cluttering up their dining room table. Hopefully I'm up again soon. I am really struggling to complete my blog entries each day for this month. Figures!

This picture is of Amy, Laury, Mari, and Janelle in front of their house. I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends!

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16 back to 45, ugh!

Today I have now come down from the mountain top. I have had such amazing experiences. Mari and I have been a couple of teens, out gallavanting around the mountains and causing a splash wherever we went but now we are coming back to reality. Mari's dad is back in the hospital again. I'm sitting in the bus terminal at the airport waiting to be taken the three hours back home.

This picture is taken from my webcam this morning, right before we left for the airport. God has blessed us both so very much by giving us each other and at such a time as this. I am amazed and so very blessed to call her my friend.

I want to thank everyone for praying for this trip. It truly has been a healing time. I can't wait until we get to meet again. I can't wait...

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Hotel Adventures:)

Mari colored my hair tonight at the hotel. I think I goofed. I bought a color that's too dark. Jim's not going to recognize me. At least it isn't purple or green. No pictures for today. I'll catch everyone up when I catch up with myself, whoever myself is.

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100 Post Party!

I missed my 100th post because I was having such a great time in Washington:) Its been so good and is the best way I can think to celebrate. Last night, Mari and I spent about an hour on her deck watching the falling stars. It was really cold so we were huddled in a thick blanket. Today Mari and I went to church together. It was so much fun to worship together, something I'd been looking forward to doing for a very long time. After church we met Amy and Janelle Wiley and went to Mt. St. Helens. We had fun together and laughed lots. Afterwards Mari and I went to see Wall-E. It was very cute and was fun watching it together, laughing outloud with all the little kids.

This is my last night at Mari's house. We're both feeling very melancholy. Tomorrow Mari's family is coming home so I will get to meet them. I'm really excited about that, too. Its a very good way to end our time together. Tomorrow night we're going to splurge and stay at a hotel near the airport since I have to leave so very early.

I have been feeling so very good. I am very thankful. The weather has been just perfect, too. I had no doubts that it would be:)

The

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Ocean Fun

Laury & Mari

Two dizzy people trying to hold each other up:) not a good combination.Shadow friends (Amy, Mari, & Laury)
Amy making a drip castle at Seaside, Oregan.

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My first bald eagle sighting!
Mari made a latte that Laury liked:)

Amy &; Laury, the first time the laptops meet:)

We are all having so much fun, it shouldn't be legal. I am having a most awesome time! Tomorrow Amy, Mari, and Laury are going to the beach tomorrow at Seaside, Oregan and will most probably go see Wall-E, too. Can't wait. Tonight we're having a slumber party and watch some movies together. Already our ribs and cheeks hurt from laughing so much. Wish you all were here:)

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Going to the High Places!

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Latte Experience -- Mission Aborted!

The latte experience at Starbucks was definitely a bust. "It tastes like coffee," said Laury.Marita took a sip to make sure it was made right and couldn't even tell there was coffee in it.Needless to say, Mari drank the rest and the mission was definitely aborted! Sorry Kristen, sorry, Laura. I gave it a go. I guess I'll try it again, though. This time a mint mochachip frapp.Hello from Washington, by the way!

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I AM Because He Is!

Sunday's sermon began a new series in the book of John. Our preacher challenged us to read the book from beginning to end once a week for the rest of the summer while he preaches from the text.

Jesus defined Himself in these seven ways:

I am the Bread of Life. (John 6:35)

I am the Light of the World. (John 8:12)

I am the Gate. (John 10:9)

I am the Good Shepherd. (John 10:11)

I am the Resurrection and the Life. (John 11:25)

I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. (John 14:6)

I am the Vine. (John 15:5)

Because of who Jesus is, I have a much different way that I can describe myself than someone who doesn't have a relationship with Him.

I am a child of God.
I am a daughter of the King.
I am saved.
I am free.
I am Spirit-filled, water/fire baptized.
I am loved.
I am because He is!

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Mar-E!!! Laur-E!!!

Somewhere, lost in Tabor, Illinois, lived a woman looking for a best friend to share her most intimate secrets with. She was surrounded by the greatest of friends but they were all so busy with their own lives. It wasn't enough. Poor Laur-E needed more.


Far away, in a foreign land, clear in Washington State, lived a woman named Mar-E. She was a pastor's wife that didn't realize just how much she was in need of a friend.

Somehow, through circumstances beyond their control, the two above-mentioned characters, were introduced to each other. They both shared a love of writing and both had a love for the Lord and their families. Being the same age and much the same season of life, the two hit it off and have become fast friends. It started through the Faithwriters Boards, http://http://www.faithwriters.com//">Faithwriters then e-mails. It soon progressed to Instant Messages and phone calls. The latest mode of communication is web-cam, which put a whole new dimension to the relationship. They are often caught by their families visiting on webcam, talking on the phone (because Mar-E doesn't have a mic) and instant messaging, all at the same time. These two truly are funny, middle-aged women.

The way hasn't been easy. Each experienced horrific storms through their six-month friendship but the other was always there to help pick up the pieces and keep pointing up to the One who holds the true comfort.

Separated by thousands of miles, the two were destined to never meet face-to-face. Divine intervention and friends who desired to make dreams come true, soon changed the destiny of these two very lonely women.

And on Tuesday, July 8th, the two will meet in the Portland, Oregan airport. Who says dreams don't come true? They do. They really do. A week together will seal their friendship tightly.

**Author's note: Two most awesome friends, Am-E and Janell-E will also be anxiously waiting at the airport. Laur-E is prepared to pounce on all three and lots of hugs will be shared! Thank you to everyone who has had to put up with their trip count-downs and their constant talking about the trip and each other. Also, thank you to all of you who have prayed for this to happen and who are praying for travel safety for Laur-E as she flies.

Friends are a true gift of the Lord! Oh man! Are they ever! and this author (Laur-E) has so very many! She is bountifully 'bundantly blessed beyond belief! Truly!

**If you don't know, this is Disney Pixar's newest animated movie, Wall-E at a theater near you!

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Majesty!

To watch this video, you will have to turn off the music on the music player. So sorry.

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Freely and Lightly!

I am beginning to think about my trip. Oh, I know, that's very funny. Actually, I've been thinking of it for a very long time! Umm... now I'm at the stage where I'm actually deciding what to take with me in my carry-on. I won't check a bag. I want to travel light.

Any ideas? I'm traveling on Tuesday, then I have Wednesday - Monday, then traveling early on Tuesday again. I was thinking of just taking two pairs of capris jeans and enough blouses/shirts for every day. I'll wear my tennis shoes there and pack flip-flops so it will be lighter.

I'm also trying to decide if I should stick my laptop in my carry-on. I have a very long day traveling on Tuesday. A bus ride to Chicago to the airport and then a loooong wait for the plane. Hmmm? What do you all think? I suppose I can get it out of my carry-on if I decide I want it but don't want to do that on the plane. Either it stays with me or it stays in carry-on.

Anyone have any travel tips they would like to share? I would love to hear them.

I don't want to be loaded down with stuff while I'm traveling. The same thing goes with life. The more I let things work on me and through me without me letting them go, the heavier my burden becomes.

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." (Matthew 11:29-30, The Message)

I'm ready to live freely and lightly. If you're following along behind me, don't trip over my stuff as I cast it off! Watch me walk with "unforced rhythms of grace." Just watch!

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Friday Fiction! Daddy's Arms

I wrote this piece for a FW challenge, “every dark cloud has a silver lining.” It is my life. I live a life filled with physical pain and I have attempted to put a face to that pain, which helps me so much. The blue parts are newly written, just specially for the Friday Fiction. August 25, just the black parts will be highlighted in the Faithwriters Front Page Showcase. I am very excited about that!

Be sure to check out all the great Friday Fiction selection links at Patty's Patterings.

Daddy's Arms

The sun peeked in through the drawn curtains, waking me from a restless slumber. I roused myself off the couch, where I had finally dropped off to sleep. Five hours is not much to rejuvenate this tired body. I whispered a prayer, “Another day You have made – Lord, will you please help me rejoice in it?”

I did my everyday morning activities. Meanwhile, the critter, the varmint that grabs hold of me every single day, latched on, attaching itself to my head and squeezed with all its might, with its two paws. I said, “You’re not welcome here today, Old Pain.”

The life-sucking varmint cried out, “I deeeelight in causing you pain, my Pprreeettttyyyyy. Just try to do your tasks today. I will torment and cajole you until you run back home, screaming for me to let go.”

“Not today,” I cried, “Be gone, in Jesus’ Name.”

“Boogertiboo – I have my talons in YOU!”

I gave in, head down, having lost the fight once again. I spilled out my morning medicines into my hand and swallowed the colorful variety in one gulp. I trudged out the door, splashing through the squishy wet yard and climbed into my van to drive to work.

“Okay men! The perpetrator is called, Varmint. It will leave the subject for a time but will start the attack once again.”

I turned the key and music automatically filled the space. Lifting one hand to Heaven, I belted out songs of praise, certainly making a joyful noise. For a time, the varmint fled, knowing that the van ride to school was not the place for it.

One young teen with keen eyes caught sight of the pain. “Sir, I see it up ahead. What do you want me to do?”

The officer in charge gave orders to stand their ground and wait for the next assault.

But occasionally it would return, in spite of the music. Offering me an out, it would whisper in my ear, “You could end the pain now. It would appear as an accident.”

“It’s snuck back in. How can it get by us so easily?”

Gabe shushed the young man. They both listened and studied the Varmint’s every move.

“It wants the subject to kill herself, Sir. What can we do?”

The blatant wickedness from this ugly varmint caused me to tremble. I shook my head to break up the thoughts that sought to ravage my mind. I continued on with my drive, calling out to my God to keep me safe, and to keep others on the road safe from me.

“No worries there. She has Christ living in her. The thought may cross her mind but she would never give in to Satan’s evil ploy."

Making it to work, I walked down the corridors, teens coming at me on all sides. Lightheaded, I grabbed for the wall. The critter, the pesky varmint had found me once again. It affixed itself onto my head, poking its grimy fingers into my ears. It made them ring. I wanted to fall to the ground to stop the world from moving at such a dizzying pace, but I didn’t. I continued on. I trudged, barely picking my feet up off the floor. I got to my destination, God led me there.

“Good work men. The key is to keep her moving. If she stops and thinks about the pain she’s in, all is lost. While she’s going about her business, let’s get a good look at the perp.”

I did my work, but had to force myself to do these things I love. I smiled; I said I’m fine. Meanwhile, the varmint stepped up the attack. It worked its way into my body and caused my heart to race and my blood pressure to skyrocket. My face grew red and hot to the touch.

“It’s lying to her, Sir. Making her think she’s having a heart attack.” The young man’s face grew hot with embarrassment. To see the enemy that close and not know what to do was a hard thing for him to swallow. What was the point of standing down? Why not attack?

I let it win every time. For some reason, God was allowing this creature the freedom to harass me. Or was I allowing it? I finally gave up, but I couldn’t run fast enough or far enough. It clung to me – screeching in my ear – delighting in my pain, delighting in my discomfort, delighting in my desperation.

Alarms sounded in the ear pieces of the young soldiers. All stood at attention, alert, hands on their weapons, waiting for their marching orders.

“God help me!” I got home and crawled into bed, tucking my blanket to my neck. Tears formed in my eyes and spilled down my cheeks. “I can’t do this anymore. I’ve tried to be faithful, tried to learn what You’ve been teaching me. Can it be over yet, Lord, please?”

“Men, hold your ground. Hold on.”

“But Sir…”

“Hold your ground.”

A soft IM chime came from my laptop. It was my friend Shirley.

“We’ve got outside help.” All looked up at the monitor. What they saw was a young boy on his knees praying for a woman he had never once met. His only thought was that it was his mommy’s friend and she hurt.

“Braeden asked me who I was writing to. I told him it was my friend Laury, and that you get bad headaches. He said, ‘Mommy, can I pray for her?’ Laury, he’s standing here praying for you right now.”

“But we could easily stomp it out, Sir. Why aren’t we allowed to? Its right there! I can see it. One shot and it’s gone.”

“Men, watch and learn.” All eyes moved to the monitor again.

The varmint cringed in fright as a seven-year-old stormed the Gates of Hell. It howled and stomped its feet. It turned purple and steam flowed out its ears. The varmint then threw itself on the floor: shaking, writhing, and twisting itself into strange contortions. I smiled while watching this creature in pain for once. I whispered, “Jesus. And then I said it louder, Jesus!”

“Men, go! Chase it now! Go but you are not allowed to kill it.”

Heaviness was lifted off me. I laughed aloud as I watched the varmint let out an ear-piercing scream and fly out the window.

The men did as they were told. A massive attack was made on the varmint. It turned tail and ran screaming and writhing in pain.

"Shirley, tell my small prayer warrior ‘thank you.’ I’m going to sleep. I know I’ll be able to rest easy in my Daddy’s arms now.”

The men returned to their post, arms at their sides, relaxed, but on guard.

It is with tears in my eyes that I write these blue parts. I don’t know why God doesn’t just stomp out my pain. He is Ruler of all things. He has dominion over the varmint. He gives the orders and they are carried out. I started a new pain medicine today. Am hoping and pray that it helps me much more than anything else ever has but whatever. Whatever happens, I know that God is with me and because of Him I will be able to stand my ground and win the battle. -- Laury

15-17So, friends, take a firm stand, feet on the ground and head high. Keep a tight grip on what you were taught, whether in personal conversation or by our letter. May Jesus himself and God our Father, who reached out in love and surprised you with gifts of unending help and confidence, put a fresh heart in you, invigorate your work, enliven your speech. (2 Thess. 2:15-17, The Message)

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I LOVE BOOKS!

I have been tagged by Kristen at Taste Buds. This is all about books so of course, I would gladly comply!


1. Do you remember how you developed a love for reading?
I've always loved to read. Can't remember not ever being able to read but I am most assuredly positive that I didn't come out of the womb that way! ROFL!

2. What are some books you read as a child?
I loved the Bernstein Bears and Little House on the Prairie. Oh, of course, Dr. Seuss.

3. What is your favorite genre? I love Christian Fiction.

4. Do you have a favorite novel?
Ted Dekker, Hannah Hurnard, Dee Henderson, Jan Karron, Janette Oke...

5. Where do you usually read? I read at drs. offices, in bed late at night with a flashlight:), in the car waiting for my son's practices to be over, anywhere and everywhere!

6. When do you usually read? Whenever my eyes and head allow me to.

7. Do you usually have more than one book you are reading at a time?
Yes, always reading more than one book at a time. Oh, are we supposed to read one book at a time? Oops!

8. Do you read nonfiction in a different way or place than you read fiction? I usually take notes with nonfiction.

9. Do you buy most of the books you read, or borrow them, or check them out of the library?
I beg, borrow, and steal books:) Well, not steal, but you know what I mean -- ROFL!

10. Do you keep most of the books you buy? If not, what do you do with them?
Yes, I keep my books if I like them.

11. If you have children, what are some of the favorite books you have shared with them? Were they some of the same ones you read as a child?
Oh, I loved How to Eat Fried Worms:) Read lots of Dr. Suess to my kids!

12. What are you reading now?
Am re-reading Hinds Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard and Adam by Ted Dekker.

13. Do you keep a TBR (to be read) list?
No, but a very good idea!

14. What’s next?
I have the newest Jan Karon book that a friend let me borrow:)

15. What books would you like to reread?
Anything by Dickens..., Chronicles of Narnia

16. Who are your favorite authors?
Ted Dekker, Francinne Rivers, Jan Karon, Dee Henderson...


Okay, I have to tag two people. Hmmm... who will it be? I choose Vonnie at My Backdoor Ministry and Patty at Patterings.

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Sink or Swim?

Remember your child's first grade Science experiment? No, not a volcano erupting making a mess everywhere. I was thinking of the Sink or Swim experiment. You take a bucket and then each child carefully places an object into the water. The very first thing, though, as any good scientist can tell you, a hypothesis must be made. Will this object sink or swim?

The rock most definitely sinks. Plop. Yup. Sinks right to the bottom.

The cork swims! Well, it floats. The cork floats.

We can't always look at something and know for sure what it will do. The very first boat ever built was by Noah. He had no idea what it was really going to be for. He had never seen water. Quickly he learned what floating meant! And many people learned what sinking was.

Remember when the Israelites stood at the Red Sea? They thought they were looking at death but instead, God turned things around. He parted the sea and they were able to walk across. Of course it was a different story for the Egyptians. As soon as the Israelites crossed, the sea fell back into place and the Egyptians in the middle soon sunk to the bottom.

Remember when the disciples were being tossed around in a bad storm? Who came out walking to them? They thought it was a ghost, but no, it was Jesus. And Peter dared walk out to Him. Would he sink or swim? Well, we know that Peter was able to walk on water until he looked down and got afraid and then he quickly sank.

The Bible is full of very unscientific stories. If we were to make a hypothesis about these accounts, we would most definitely say the opposite of what actually happened.

BUT God is the God of the impossible. Even though all looks lost, we are able to swim. Even though life is piled on until its hard to breathe, we are still able to swim. When all seems lost, we are able to swim across to the other side. The way might be stormy. We might lose sight of the shore at times, but we KNOW that it is there.

28Peter, suddenly bold, said, "Master, if it's really you, call me to come to you on the water."
29-30He said, "Come ahead."
Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. (He floats!) But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, "Master, save me!" (No, he sinks!)
31Jesus didn't hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand. Then he said, "Faint-heart, what got into you?" (They float!)
32-33The two of them climbed into the boat, and the wind died down. The disciples in the boat, having watched the whole thing, worshiped Jesus, saying, "This is it! You are God's Son for sure!" (Matthew 14, The Message)

So when we are saved once again by Jesus, it is another reminder that YES, He is God's Son for sure! Its our choice what we do. Will we sink or swim?

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Quarter of a Million

Now that I have declared I was going to post everyday in July, everything is falling apart. A writer that can't think of anything to write, well... that is just unnatural. Actually I have many things I could write but the bad thing is, someone might read it. Not good...

I just googled the question, how many words are there in the English language, and in a round-about way, it finally reported that there are approximately a quarter of a million. That's quite a few words. To think that they all come from twenty-six letters is even more amazing to me. And then, to think how words can be spoken or written -- wow! Okay, words can also be used for good: to lift someone up and to teach. They also can be used for the bad: they can rule over someone, they can tear down, they can even destroy.

James talks about words and the power that they have.

3-5"A bit in the mouth of a horse controls the whole horse. A small rudder on a huge ship in the hands of a skilled captain sets a course in the face of the strongest winds. A word out of your mouth may seem of no account, but it can accomplish nearly anything—or destroy it!

5-6It only takes a spark, remember, to set off a forest fire. A careless or wrongly placed word out of your mouth can do that. By our speech we can ruin the world, turn harmony to chaos, throw mud on a reputation, send the whole world up in smoke and go up in smoke with it, smoke right from the pit of hell.

7-10This is scary: You can tame a tiger, but you can't tame a tongue—it's never been done. The tongue runs wild, a wanton killer. With our tongues we bless God our Father; with the same tongues we curse the very men and women he made in his image. Curses and blessings out of the same mouth!

10-12My friends, this can't go on. A spring doesn't gush fresh water one day and brackish the next, does it? Apple trees don't bear strawberries, do they? Raspberry bushes don't bear apples, do they? You're not going to dip into a polluted mud hole and get a cup of clear, cool water, are you?" (James 3:3-12, THE MESSAGE)

I used some of those quarter of a million words today to hurt a friend. Out of twenty-six letters, I pieced together the ones that would do the most damage. Why did I do that? I'm not sure but I am so sorry that I did. Words thrown out there can't be taken back. You can't retrieve them from the mailbox after you shove it in the slot. You can't grab at misspoken words after they leave your mouth. You certainly can't erase them off of IM. Words are a blessing and they can also be a curse.

My life's attempt is to have well-placed, meaningful words scattered around me, not loosely said, misplaced words for others to trip on. That is my goal, that is my prayer.

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NaBloPoMo Challenge

I have just committed myself to blogging every day for the month of July and since today is July 1, I guess its time:) To give you an update, I'm not doing the backstroke in the quicksand anymore. I started to flail a bit and have now righted myself and am trying to pick up one foot after another. Its such an exhausting thing to do, floating on my back is much more enjoyable. Trudging is still much better than sinking, though. Will trudge any day, anything to keep my head above the sinking sand.

I went to my church library on Sunday and picked out a book to read this week. So now, not only am I reading Hinds Feet on High Places (my fav book of all time) but I'm also reading the new Ted Dekker book, Adam. I'm plowing through it quickly. I don't usually like suspense-type books, but LOVE his. I get so wrapped up in the story that I can't put it down.

Psalm 51 (The Message)
1-3Generous in love—God, give grace! Huge in mercy—
wipe out my bad record.
Scrub away my guilt,
soak out my sins in your laundry.
I know how bad I've been;
my sins are staring me down.

4-6 You're the One I've violated, and you've seen
it all, seen the full extent of my evil.
You have all the facts before you;
whatever you decide about me is fair.
I've been out of step with you for a long time,
in the wrong since before I was born.
What you're after is truth from the inside out.
Enter me, then; conceive a new, true life.

7-15 Soak me in your laundry and I'll come out clean,
scrub me and I'll have a snow-white life.
Tune me in to foot-tapping songs,
set these once-broken bones to dancing.
Don't look too close for blemishes,
give me a clean bill of health.
God, make a fresh start in me,
shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life.
Don't throw me out with the trash,
or fail to breathe holiness in me.
Bring me back from gray exile,
put a fresh wind in my sails!
Give me a job teaching rebels your ways
so the lost can find their way home.
Commute my death sentence, God, my salvation God,
and I'll sing anthems to your life-giving ways.
Unbutton my lips, dear God;
I'll let loose with your praise.

16-17 Going through the motions doesn't please you,
a flawless performance is nothing to you.
I learned God-worship
when my pride was shattered.
Heart-shattered lives ready for love
don't for a moment escape God's notice.

18-19 Make Zion the place you delight in,
repair Jerusalem's broken-down walls.
Then you'll get real worship from us,
acts of worship small and large,
Including all the bulls
they can heave onto your altar!

This is my prayer today, "Soak me in your laundry and I'll come out clean,
scrub me and I'll have a snow-white life." I especially need laundered, floating/trudging through all this quicksand. Happy floating/trudging/running/soaring/sailing -- whatever place you are in at this second -- have a happy!

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