Bickler Bulletin

2009-07-20T16:36:00.001-07:00

Make your Stick Figure Family at FreeFlashToys.com

2009-05-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

Lord, Disturb Me

Pastor Marvin Williams

I follow the Radical Rabbi named Jesus, but I am too safe, too comfortable, too undisturbed.

I hang the Do Not Disturb sign on the door of my life because I don't like my comfort, safety and status quo living being interrupted by the turbulence of big dreams, the deep waters of radical obedience, the rough seas of suffering, and the dark nights of uncertain adventures.

The other day, I ran across a prayer, written by Sir Frances Drake (explorer and naval pioneer during the Elizabethan era), that disturbed me. This prayer affected my spiritual equilibrium so much, that I want to share it with you, in hopes that it will disturb you like it did me.

Don't just gloss over the words; sit with it for a minute and then spend some time, dissecting and parsing its content. Then ask God to help you identify "smooth sailing" areas of your life. Next, ask him to disturb the places in your life where you are safe, comfortable, undisturbed.

Here's the prayer:

Disturb us, Lord, when we are too well pleased with ourselves, when our dreams have come true because we have dreamed too little, when we arrive safely because we have sailed too close to the shore.

Disturb us, Lord, when with the abundance of things we possess, we have lost our thirst for the waters of life; having fallen in love with life, we have ceased to dream of eternity; and in our efforts to build a new earth, we have allowed our vision of the new heaven to dim.

Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly, to venture on wider seas where storms will show your mastery; where losing sight of land, we shall find the stars. We ask you to push back the horizons of our hopes; and to push us into the future in strength, courage, hope, and love.

I know I have been sailing too close to the shore lately and I am asking Jesus to disturb me to action.

In what areas have you become too comfortable and need to pray: "Lord, disturb me?" In what areas in your life have you been traveling too close to shore and need to pray: "Lord, disturb me?"

2009-04-03T17:07:00.000-07:00

But let the Lord Jesus Christ take control of you, and don’t think of ways to indulge your evil desires. — Romans 13:14 (NLT)

A story (author unknown) has been told about a grandfather trying to teach his son about life. “A fight is going on inside me,” he said to the boy. “It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One is evil – he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is good – he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. This same fight is going on inside you, and inside every other person, too.” The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win?” The grandfather simply replied, "The one you feed."

Each one who follows Christ lives with the struggle of conflicting desires and behavior. On the one hand, we want to be obedient and pleasing to the Lord. On the other hand, we still live with our natural, sinful desires that seek to please ourselves. This is real: there is tension between the two. What is clear from the Scriptures is that we become slaves to whatever we give ourselves to (see Romans 6:16) – or as the story would put it, to whichever wolf we feed.

Christ died to set us free from being slaves to sin. Though we still struggle, we can experience victory over our sinful desires. How? By focusing on God; by feeding on His Word; by receiving the nourishment that comes from pursuing our relationship with Christ – who said, “I am the bread of life.” The Apostle Paul encourages us to be intentional about gaining the advantage in this struggle, saying “...count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.’ (Romans 6:11)

Today, feed the good wolf. Remind yourself that you belong to God and with the Holy Spirit’s help in your life, count yourself dead to sinful desires and behaviors and alive to Jesus.

Resolutions...

2009-01-06T13:31:00.000-08:00

This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden

All athletes practice strict self-control. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step. I am not like a boxer who misses his punches. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.—1 Corinthians 9:25-27

This time of year consumers are inundated with advertisements to lose weight, quit smoking, to finish school and more. Companies do what they can to cash in on a tradition called "New Year’s Resolutions." It is common during the first weeks of a new year to be asked what your resolution is, and then sometime in February to be asked if you’ve been able to keep it. In early January, the weight machines and cardio areas of fitness clubs everywhere are filled with people who are still hoping to lose those last 5 pounds or get into better health. However, the busyness won’t last long. By the end of February or beginning of March, the annual fitness fad dies, and the crowd thins out as the unmotivated drop off.

Here’s a challenge for you. Don’t refer to your spiritual commitments as "New Year’s Resolutions". Generally, people tend not to keep them. An athlete works out each day and slowly builds muscle, stamina and endurance as they train over the long haul. Paul, in his letter to the Christians in Corinth, tells them that they must discipline themselves like athletes. The Christian walk requires hard work, self-denial and difficult preparation. You are called to be on the field, not merely a spectator. Christians are called to be disciplined in prayer, reading the Bible, and worship. It is these areas that will help you live with purpose and stamina.

Resolve to be disciplined each day by spending time in God’s word and praying so that you can build your spiritual muscles.

2008-12-27T13:42:00.000-08:00

How long will my prayers seem unanswered?
Is there still faith in me to reach the end?
I'm feeling doubt.... I'm losing faith
But giving up would cost me everything
So I'll stand in the pain and silence...
And I'll speak to the dark night

I believe in the sun even when it's not shining
I believe in love even when I don't feel it
And I believe in God even when He is silent
And I, I believe
Though I can't see my stories ending
That doesn't mean the dark night has no end
It's only here that I find faith
And learn to trust the one who writes my days
So I'll stand in the pain and silence
And I'll speak to the dark night

I believe in the sun even when it's not shining
I believe in love even when I don't feel it
And I believe in God even when He is silent
And I, I believe

No dark can consume Light
No death greater than this life
We are not forgotten
Hope is found when we say
Even when He is silent

I believe in the sun even when it's not shining
I believe in love even when I don't feel it
And I believe in God even when He is silent
And I, I believe.

The Uniqueness of Christ

2008-10-27T16:42:00.000-07:00

The Uniqueness of Christ
This devotional was written by Jim Burns

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
—John 14:6

"No person who has ever walked this earth even comes close to comparison when placed up against Jesus Christ. He is unique. He is incomparable. He is our Lord. Here is what one unknown person wrote about Him years ago.

More than 1900 years ago there was a Man born contrary to the laws of life. This Man lived in poverty and was reared in obscurity. He did not travel extensively. Only once did He cross the boundary of the country in which He lived; that was during His exile in childhood. He possessed neither wealth nor influence. His relatives were inconspicuous and had neither training nor formal education.

In infancy He startled a king; in childhood He puzzled doctors; in manhood He ruled the course of nature, walked upon the billows as if pavements, and hushed the sea to sleep. He healed the multitudes without medicine and made no charge for His service.

He never wrote a book, yet all the libraries of the country could not hold the books that have been written about Him. He never wrote a song, and yet He has furnished the theme for more songs than all the songwriters combined. He never founded a college, but all the schools put together cannot boast of having as many students. He never marshaled an army, nor drafted a soldier, nor fired a gun; and yet no leader ever had more volunteers who have, under his orders, made more rebels stack arms and surrender without a shot fired. He never practiced medicine, and yet He has healed more broken hearts than all the doctors far and near.

Every seventh day the wheels of commerce cease their turning as multitudes wind their way to worshiping assemblies to pay homage and respect to Him. The names of the past proud statesmen of Greece and Rome have come and gone, but the name of this Man abounds more and more. Though time has spread 1900 years between the people of this generation and the scene of His crucifixion, yet He still lives. Herod could not destroy Him and the grave could not hold Him.

He stands forth upon the highest pinnacle of heavenly glory, proclaimed of God, acknowledged by angels, adored by saints, and feared by devils as the living, personal Christ, our Lord and Savior." -Anonymous

2008-10-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

UPDATE !
We took max to the vet and found out max...had been shot by a pellet gun. The pellet is lodged by his spine in an area that makes it nearly impossible to remove. But he seems to be responding to pain meds and anti-inflammatory meds (you ever try to get a cat to swallow a pill? I might be taking Jim and Tawni to the doctor next!!!) We are keeping him locked in Tawni's room and watching him...if he does not get better the vet will refer us to a specialist. So keep him in your prayers !!

2008-10-14T08:10:00.000-07:00

This is Tawni's baby Maximous James(aka TROUBLE). He disappeared about a week ago ( we assumed it was because Jim's parents brought their dog) We have been praying and putting up flyers....well he showed up this morning...injured. He can not move his back legs...and even as I am typing this Jim and Tawni are on their way to the vets office. So could you say a little prayer for Max, for Tawni and that it won't cost to much....(Jim is on strike...) Thanks !

2008-08-05T23:38:00.000-07:00

Possessing a rare combination of wisdom and humility, while serenely dominating your environment you selflessly use your powers to care for others.

Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.

I was suprised, I was actaully hoping I would be Sam. I find Sam to be loyal, trustworthy and a friend no matter what evil you might be facing, even when Frodo rejects him and asks him to leave....he still sticks by him. I have found myself in need of a Sam latley.....I hope if you ever need one I can be that for you.

2008-06-20T13:32:00.000-07:00

Yep...I did it again...stoled something.....but I am sure the young men at the Rebelution wont mind !

Character (Part 4): Choosing The Bible And The Bullet
Read this story. It could change your life.

The Communist soldiers had discovered their illegal Bible study.

As the pastor was reading from the Bible, men with guns suddenly broke into the home, terrorizing the believers who had gathered there to worship. The Communists shouted insults and threatened to kill the Christians. The leading officer pointed his gun at the pastor’s head. “Hand me your Bible,” he demanded. Reluctantly, the pastor handed over his Bible, his prized possession. With a sneer on his face, the guard threw the Word of God on the floor at his feet.

He glared at the small congregation. “We will let you go, “ he growled, “but first, you must spit on this book of lies. Anyone who refuses will be shot.” The believers had no choice but to obey the officer’s order. A soldier pointed his gun at one of the men. “You first.”

The man slowly got up and knelt down by the Bible. Reluctantly, he spit on it, praying, “Father, please forgive me.” He stood up and walked to the door. The soldiers stood back and allowed him to leave. “Okay, you!” the soldier said, nudging a woman forward. In tears, she could barely do what the soldier demanded. She spit only a little, but it is enough. She too was allowed to leave.

Quietly, a sixteen-year-old girl came forward. Overcome with love for her Lord, she knelt down and picked up the Bible. She wiped off the spit with her dress. “What have they done to Your Word? Please forgive them,” she prayed.

The Communist soldier put his pistol to her head. Then he pulled the trigger.

~ Jesus Freaks, by dc Talk and The Voice of the Martyrs ~
I have a question for you: was this girl’s sacrifice worth it? I mean, it’s one thing to lay your life down for a family member or friend or instead of denying Christ, but all she was asked to do was spit on the Bible for goodness sake! If I were in her shoes, with Communist soldier’s invading my Bible study, I’d be praising God that they came up with such an insignificant requirement! I don’t intend to be crude, but if you’ve ever sneezed or coughed when you were doing devotions, you’ve probably already gotten spittle on there. So what’s the big deal?

If you are inclined to agree with the last paragraph, I beg you to realize that her decision was one of extraordinary significance. She chose the precious Word of God over her own comfort and safety; a decision you and I make every single day, but almost always in the opposite direction.

Her sacrifice was worth it because it symbolized something much greater than simply a leather-bound Bible and a quarter-teaspoon of spit. It was a choice between her earthly home and her Heavenly Home, between her persecutor’s threats and her Savior’s promises. She had nothing to lose and everything to gain by choosing God’s Word over earthly comfort. Are we ready to make the same choice?

The answer is that we do make that choice, and we almost always choose comfort. We choose to “spit” on rather than sit under the perfect instruction of Scripture. You and I are constantly “spitting” on the Holy Word of God when we aren’t willing to sacrifice our meaningless comforts for some truly meaningful guidance. And I don’t care if that offends somebody. We offend God, my friends.

A sixteen-year-old girl in Asia laid down her life rather than neglect God’s Word. Are you willing to lay down your magazine? Pray to God that He will grant you the grace to be faithful to His Word. Because, honestly, most of us are too weak to shut-off our computer in order to have some distraction-free devotional time. It won’t get easier till we work harder.

You could say the Bible is “Chicken Soup for the Christian’s Soul.” It feeds our spiritual well-being and our strength of character. “How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your Word.” (Psa. 119:9) We will leave our souls starved and our character unguarded if we fail to make the Bible top priority.

Do you want to impact this world for Christ? Do you want to be a Godly young man or woman? Sidney Howard said, “One-half of knowing what you want is knowing what you must give up before you get it.” What are you willing to sacrifice? When will you stop offending God by neglecting one of His primary means of grace in your life, His written Word?

Do not let the opinions of your friends or the customs of your family get in the way. Make the change today.

Start asking yourself the questions, "What does priority mean to me?" "What does it look like when something is top priority in my life?" "What does neglect look like?" "What other means of grace am I neglecting?" and most importantly, "What does the Bible have to say about all this?" Start with Joshua 1:8 and Psalm 1:1-2. Ask yourself, "What are these verses saying? What do they mean for me?"

Was that girl’s sacrifice worth it? You can bet the world it was.

In Christ, Brett Harris

Judas the man who never knew Jesus

2008-06-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

I read this chapter in Max Lucado's book "On the Anvil" recently and it really struck me....it's not a long chapter ...it's is worth the read.

I've wondered many times what kind of man this Judas was. What he looked like, how he acted, who his friends were.

I guess I've always stereotyped him. I've always pictured him as a wiry, beady-eyed,sly,wormy fellow, pointed beard and all. I've pictured him as estranged from the other apostles. Friendless. Distant. Undoubtedly he was a traitor and a quisling. Probably the result of a broken home. A juvenile delinquent in his youth.

Yet I wonder if that is so true. We have no evidence (save Judas's silence) that would suggest that he was isolated. At the Last Supper, when Jesus said that his betrayer sat at the table, we don;t find the apostles immediately turning to Judas as the logical traitor.

No, I think we've got Judas pegged wrong. Perhaps he was just the opposite. Instead of sly and wiry, maybe he was robust and jovial. Rather than quite and introverted , he could have been outgoing and well-meaning. I don't know.

But for all the things we don't know about Judas, there is one thing we know for sure: He had no relationship with the Master. He had seen Jesus, but he did not know Him. He had heard Jesus, but he did not understand him. He had religion but no relationship.

As Satan worked his way around the table in the upper room, he needed a special kind of man to betray our Lord. He needed a man who had seen Jesus but who did not know Him. He needed a man who knew the actions of Jesus but had missed the mission of Jesus. Judas was this man. He knew the empire but had never known the Man.

We learn this timeless lesson from the betrayer. Satan's best tool of destruction are not from outside the church; they are within the church. A church will never die from the immorality in Hollywood or the corruption in Washington. But it will die from corrosion within - from those who bear the name of Jesus but have never met him and from those who have religion but no relationship.

Judas boar the cloak of religion, but he never knew the heart of Christ. Let's make it our goal to know....deeply.

2008-04-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

THE REBELUTION IS COMING !!!

ROLLING HILLS COMMUNITY CHURCH (Church Website)
9AM-5PM, SATURDAY, MAY 3RD, 2008
3550 SW Borland Road - Tualatin, OR - 97062

2008-01-03T14:45:00.000-08:00

PARENT - Job Description
This is hysterical. If it had been presented this way,
I don't believe any of us would have done it!!!!

POSITION :Mom, Mommy, Mama, Ma
Dad, Daddy, Dada, Pa, Pop, Pop-Pop

JOB DESCRIPTION :

Long term, team players needed, for challenging
permanent work in an,
often chaotic environment.
Candidates must possess excellent communication
and organizational skills and be willing to work
variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends
and frequent 24 hour shifts on call.
Some overnight travel required, including trips to
primitive camping sites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities!
Travel expenses not reimbursed.
Extensive courier duties also required.

RESPONSIBILITIES :
The rest of your life.
Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily,
until someone needs $5.
Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly.
Also, must possess the physical stamina of a
pack mule
and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat
in case, this time, the screams from
the backyard are not someone just crying wolf.
Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges,
such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets
and stuck zippers.
Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and
coordinate production of multiple homework projects.
Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings
for clients of all ages and mental outlooks.
Must be willing to be indispensable one minute,
an embarrassment the next.
Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a
half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices.
Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.
Must assume final, complete accountability for
the quality of the end product.
Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and
janitorial work throughout the facility.

POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION :

None.
Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills,
so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE :

None required unfortunately.
On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.

WAGES AND COMPENSATION :

Get this! You pay them!
Offering frequent raises and bonuses
A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because
of the assumption that college will help them
become financially independent.
When you die, you give them whatever is left.
The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that
you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.

BENEFITS :
While no health or dental insurance, no pension,
no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and
no stock options are offered;
this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth, unconditional love,
and free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right.

Forward this on to all the PARENTS you know, in appreciation for everything they do on a daily basis,
letting them know they are appreciated
for the fabulous job they do...
or forward with love
to anyone thinking of applying for the job.

** AND A FOOTNOTE - THERE IS NO RETIREMENT -- EVER!!! **

2007-12-24T20:21:00.000-08:00

My Tawni turns.....14! Yep..in just a few short hours my baby will be 14. I can not believe it ! I have often had a shutter run down my spine....sometimes I even break out in a cold sweat when I think of the teenage years....one year down and I am happy to report...that we have not shipped her off to boot camp. Actually, I am very proud of her. She has stepped up to the plate and started really pitching in around the house with me working, she does her school work...even without someone there watching..and I always have reports of her refusing to do something she knows I wouldn't want her to...even when she could have gotten away with it! She was awesome in Peru and while feeding the homeless in Everett a few weeks ago....She has a sweet heart and I love her more than words can say.....the only problem I have with her...she's growing up to fast.

WE LOVE YOU TAWNI VERN GIRL !!!! HAPPY 14th BIRTHDAY !!!

2007-12-24T20:01:00.000-08:00

Having fun with the family in Montana!! We hope you and yours are haveing a wonderful Christmas and we pray you are blessed in the coming New YEAR !!!

2007-12-09T22:08:00.000-08:00

I had a habit when I was young ....I would adopt families....Have you ever seen "what about Bob?" the one where the crazy patient moves in on his Doctors family...well ...that was me...anyways...this picture is of one such unsuspecting family....They are the Howard family of Pocatello Idaho. They were my family during some rough teenage years.....Darlene (the mom) was my sunday school teacher at church, her son was one of my first offical boyfriends (after the age of parental concent to date), their daughter Pam was my best friend.....I love them dearly and to this day keep in touch though I do not get to see them nearly enough!!! I am telling you all this to ask for prayer.... Walt (the Dad) fell and severly injured his back.....he has been flown to Colorado to see specialist there....I am unsure of the details but the whole family could use your prayers.....I know alot of people think..."I don't even know them..." thats ok...God does...and He knows how to help better than any of us would....so when you are done reading this...PLEASE...say a little prayer....

What if?

2007-10-26T18:07:00.001-07:00

What if God couldn’t take the time to bless us today because

we couldn’t take the time to thank Him yesterday?

What if God decided to stop leading us tomorrow because

we didn’t follow Him today?

What if we never saw another flower bloom because

we grumbled when God sent the rain?

What if God didn’t walk with us today because

we failed to recognize it as His day?

Wat if God took away the Bible tomorrow because

we would not read it today?

What if God took away His message because

we failed to listen to the messenger?

What if God didn’t send His only begotten Son because

He wanted us to be prepared to pay the price for sin?

What if the door of the church was closed because

we did not open the door of our heart?

What if God stopped loving and caring for us because

we failed to love and care for others?

What if God would not hear us today because

we would not listen to Him?

What if God answered our prayers the way

we answer His call to service?

What if God met our needs the way we give Him our lives?

Author unknown

HELP !!!

2007-10-25T05:58:00.000-07:00

The Cucjens have been asked to evacuate their home ! They had to leave without most of there belongings...and even their money!! They run on a cash system, so they can not just go to the bank and withdraw......and it is looking like their home will not make it through the fires !!! They also have a couple of Birthdays coming up for the kids (I am going to assume the twins..)this week !!! Can you even imagine??? Maybe losing everything you own in one day??? No money ? and 5 kids ?? If you are interested in helping Kimi found a way to wire them money through Walmart of all places! She has been sending it to the Mercy Creek Walmart on Arrow Drive in San Degio. If you need more specific info call Kimi !!!

The Irish Man returns ! With a family.....

2007-09-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

Hey.....I got a strange comment on one of my posts...from a stranger in a far away land....unsure of who this mysterious commentator was...I bravely clicked on the name...and what did I find??? TONY !! Yep, it is TRUE! Tony finally decided to join us here in blog land !!! I have added a link to my link list....but I am sure some of you have noticed strange comments as well......don't be alarmed. Welcome to our world Tony & Maria ! We are glad you are here....

Refiners Fire

2007-09-21T23:10:00.000-07:00

Someone passed this along to me and I wanted to pass it along to you!

Allow this to richly bless your day - The day that the Lord has made.

Malachi 3:3a says: “He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.”

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.
That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn’t mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining Silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.
The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: “He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.” She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, “How do you know when the silver is fully refined?” He smiled at her and answered, “Oh, that’s easy — when I see my image in it.”

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has his eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.

Weekend getaway.......

2007-09-15T08:54:00.000-07:00

Last weekend our family snuck off to Birch Bay for a 2 night stay at a Trendwest resort. We had bought a "trial" membership almost 2 years ago and our points were about to expire..so we decided we better use them.....It was awesome to get away if only for a little while..here are the pics!!

My girls.....

2007-08-13T09:47:00.001-07:00

Tawni......My Mermaide.......
An afternoon of fun in the sun at Lake Goodwin !

My Sweet Kenzie

2007-08-03T21:06:00.001-07:00

2007-08-03T16:08:00.000-07:00

VBS is here !!!!

This year our theme is Dinosaurs !! It is a really cool program, with skits and music to match ! Come and explore Rex's Dino cave or the Jungle room !!!

It's Aug 8,9, & 10th !!! 9:30-12:30 !!!

Ages 4-12 !!!

Christian Worship Center

18008 Bothell Everett Hwy Suite H

Bothell, Wa 98223

To register call 425-478-2253
Leave a message with the names & ages of each child !

Why I choose to say NO to Harry Potter.....

2007-07-31T22:55:00.000-07:00

In response to a recent post on a dearly beloved friends blog(feel free to read it here)....I am going to voice my OPINION on the whole Harry Potter debate. I have held my tongue for a very long time, because I really felt it was up to each parent....and though I might not agree with their choice, I was not going to condemn them . This is an area that I have struggled with for a LLLOOONNNGG time. Not only with Harry Potter...but....dare I say it?? Narnia....Lord of the Rings......the list goes on......and I will admit that I have justified the Narnia and Lord of the Rings for years......but I am finding more and more...that I don't feel right about that.

Harry Potter has brought all of this to a head for me. I guess it comes down to this:

"When you come into the land which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you anyone who:
* practices witchcraft
* is a soothsayer or a sorcerer
* interprets omens
* conjures spells
* is a medium or a spiritist
* calls up the dead
For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord…." (Deuteronomy 18:9-13)
All "these things" are demonstrated in the Harry Potter books. These stories are every bit as spiritual as Christian literature, but the spiritual power they promote comes from other gods. If you treasure God's truth, may I suggest you encourage your children not to read these books? I know such parental intervention sounds grossly offensive, in fact, downright muggleish, to children who love Harry’s magical world and reject Biblical absolutes. Yet, just as "progressive" leaders fear the influence of Biblical truth on budding world citizens, so Christians parents need to guard their children against all kinds of occult "counsel:"

Either we believe the Bible for what it says or we don't.......There are so many other books that my child can read that involve or encourage-"relationships, laying your life down for those you love, choosing the hard road, doing the right thing even when it is painful, trust, discipline, faith, failing and then getting up again and becoming a better person, in a word, redemption. This book is about finding out your purpose and then fulfilling it, even when you don't have all the answers and allowing others to walk along side of you because none of us can do this thing called "life" alone.

PLEASE DO NOT GET OFFENDED HERE:

I wish parents would read the Bible with their kids with the same enthusiasm and passion as they have the Harry Potter books! Then maybe our kids would be running around praying for people instead of casting spells on them!!! Maybe our kids would be just as excited about the fact that the KING of KINGS lives in their heart and wants to use them to do even more powerful things that Harry Potter could even dream of doing!!! Maybe their kids would want to emulate real hero's !!

Our kids see enough and hear enough of things that they shouldn't without me adding to it with things that "aren't that bad"

"Everything is permissible- but not everything is beneficial" 1Cor 10:23

Remember, this is spiritual warfare. God's enemy fights as hard as ever to win the hearts and loyalties of our children -- and he has added all kinds of high-tech tools to his armory.

To resist his strategies, they first need to understand the Biblical world view. That's why God told His people long ago to base all conversation -- day and night -- on His unchanging truth:

"These words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit... walk... lie down, and when you rise up." Deut. 6:6-7

Everything we say must reflect the reality of God, His love and sovereignty, His promises and His warnings. To prove that our God is far greater than the pantheon of alternatives, our lives must demonstrate faith in the midst of difficulties and His triumph in the midst of turmoil. This is possible, not by our own strength, but by His power and grace. Then, seeing His greatness, children learn to trust His promises.

P.S. Just for the record, I told Tawni when she turned 13 that the choice was up to her if she wanted to read it, and the Lord the Rings she still has yet to see or read as well. I gave her the facts as I saw them and told her she can make this decision for herself. Many people that I know, love and respect do not feel there is anything wrong with the book.....but I have to stick with my convictions.

Were....BBBAAACCCKKKK !!!

2007-07-26T17:18:00.000-07:00

Tawni and I on the banks of the Amazon!
Tawni talking to a woman at the market(above) a little girl prays to receive Jesus! (below)
You missed us...come on...admit it!! We finially made it back Wed. morning after a 50 hour trip home !! We are still recouping.....Peru really kicked our butt's ! We had a great time and some awesome things happened ! I will be posting the official story later......when I am feeling more myself !

Can you hear it??? The clock is ticking...time is running out !!!

2007-07-13T00:07:00.000-07:00

We have good news and bad news.....
Good news....we have all the money we need for Peru!
Bad News...IT'S STILL IN YOUR POCKET!!!

Only 2 more days!!! 2 more days and we go to Peru!!! I am excited and....well ...a little scared. But I heard a quote the other day that said " Do it Scared" so I am gonna do it scared....not gonna let my queesey stomach and knocking knee's stop me......Keep us in prayer !! Thanks for all your support !! We could still use more if there is anyone out there who wants to help...we would greatly appreciate it !!!

2007-06-22T18:08:00.000-07:00

WHAT'S YOUR EXCUSE?

DID THE DOG EAT YOUR CAR?

WE DIDN'T SEE YOUR MUG TODAY !

Ok..it was kinda slow today! We made about $200.00 today.......we still need about 1,100 EACH!

Come on you know you need more junk...and we have some good stuff!! There are pictures below to entice you !!!

RUMMAGE SALE !!!

2007-06-22T07:11:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that today and tomarrow we are doing the church rummage sale to make money for our mission trip to Peru !!! Tawni and I are heading up the work today !!! We have TONS of great stuff !!!!

-A Pond

-Beautiful Entertainment Center

-Oak kitchen cabnets

-Law mower

-Ski's

-Snowboards

-Pasta makers

-T.V.

-LARGE upright freezer

-Stackable washer/dryer

So come on by and chek it out !!

GOOD NEWS !!!

2007-06-18T07:58:00.000-07:00

Seth is ok!!! The 2 area's of bleeding have stopped ! They are letting him go home sometime today ! The bruises will take about 2 weeks to absorb !! Keep praying for a quick healing, no headaches, memory stuff...ect. !!!

Thanks for all your prayers !!!

PRAYER!!!!!!!

2007-06-17T20:20:00.000-07:00

I just got word from Jen Dodge that their son Seth was in an accident while playing basketball. He got hit in such a way that it flipped him and he landed on his head. He has a sever concussion and bleeding on his brain, they are taking him to Harborview. PLEASE PRAY ! On top of all that ..a few days ago T.J. got hit in the nose and he has a fractured nose! When it rains it pours !

My Grandma.....

2007-06-16T22:46:00.000-07:00

Isn't she beautiful? This is my Grandma......I just love this picture of her. She is not only beautiful, but smart,witty and strong. I love her so much.

Last night they had to rush her to the hospital in an ambulance. She called today to let me know she was ok....only to find out no one had bothered to call me. Anyways, she is still kinda loopy from it all, so all I know is she had quit taking her thyroid medicine......and it has caused other problems....so now they want to put in a pace maker, but she doesn't want to have it.....

Anyways, I tell you all this to ask you to pray for her......I love her and I need her.Pray for me too.....

Ummm...I think I will stay home.....

2007-06-13T23:47:00.000-07:00

Oh..My Oh My......Well...it is kinda like this...Jim finally got my car fixed on Sunday .....Tue night.....it broke down again while I was at our church in Bothell....so I had it towed home and as we pull up the driver says..."I've towed to this house before! Do you own a green truck too??" Anyways.....Jim fixed it this morning for me.....and it broke down again......in Lynnwood......really embarrassing part...more embarrassing than calling AAA two days in a row.......it was the same tow truck driver!!

OOOOHHHH....but ya know what ??? Through all this I have NOT lost my peace or my joy....normally these things would have frazzled me......I would be so stressed I couldn't see straight. But God has really been reminding me to keep my eyes on Him, no matter what storm is raging... He can get me through. I heard someone say " A person that is easily angered ...is easily controlled." And I think that applied to alot of things....easily stressed, easily depressed......So when I worry...I just say a quick little prayer and move my thoughts to the things I am most grateful for!! I am thankful I have a nice Suburban ( even if it is broke) I am thankful I have a husband who can fix such things ( with a limited amount of swearing) I am SO grateful I get AAA as a Christmas gift every year from my sister (BEST money she has EVER spent) I am grateful I can give me daughter joy..(she just about wet her pants when I told her it was the same driver!) I am thankful I have friends to share my trials with !!

The blonde babe's birthday !!!

2007-06-11T22:11:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU..........ok so I won't sing...that will be my birthday gift to you my friend !! I hope you have a great birthday and an even more wonderful year ! You are my movie buddy, my sounding board, an inspiration and I am so jealous of you !!!
LOVE YOU my Kristina!

2007-06-07T23:06:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 40th BIRTHDAY JIMMY !!!!!!!

It's official .....I am married to an OLD man!!! I know it's hard to believe!

Happy Birthday Jimmy! You are a strange man that I have yet to figure out.....but I love you! You have a big heart, and make me laugh... I don't know what I would do without you.

2007-06-02T19:56:00.000-07:00

MY MATER( 99 Suburban) IS SICK........Please pray that Dr. Jim will find a cure quickly and it won't be to expensive !!!! 2 cars in 2 days.....a record even for me.......

2007-05-31T12:16:00.000-07:00

Well......we didn't make it to California. Do you ever have times when everything in the universe is working against you??? For months I have been trying to save for this trip.....and everything that could come and soak up every last little cent did.....I mean stupid things like...both pairs of my pants riped last week....(I only have 2 pairs of pants), brakes going out, teeth problems..........huuuuuuu anyways.....I didn't have the money to fly..so I reserved a rental car....then when we didn't have the money for that...we borrowed a car......it broke down . So I made it home with ALOT of prayer, and thank goodness it is something Jim can fix.....but there goes what money I did have for gas.......aaaaaahhhhhh. Pray for me I am so frustrated I could spit.......

So Miss. Lizzy ....I am SOOOOOOO Sorry!! I would give anything to be there with you and celebrate this AWESOME occasion ! You know I love you but I am going to tell you anyways ! I love you and I am so proud of you...life has not been easy but you keep going.......You are a wonderful girl......!

2007-05-11T09:52:00.000-07:00

We are some difficulties getting the Mission Fish account set up...so there will be no auctions with the ribbon right now....I am however giving half of everything made on ebay to the mission team ! I will let you know when we get the "Mission Fish" issues resolved !

WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE......

2007-05-07T17:12:00.000-07:00

PERU !!!

WE (Tawni & I ) are going to Peru!

That's right PERU ! A team from our church is meeting up with teams from all over the U.S. to combine our time , talents and resources !

Our trip is planned from July 14-24rd ! THAT IS COMING UP QUICK! I know this is short notice but we need your help getting there!
We will be doing different fund raisers in the next 2 months but there is one we are starting now and we need your help!

We will be selling things through my EBay store( Tatiana's Trinkets) , with the help of a company named MISSION FISH. Mission Fish takes the money from the sales and gives it directly to the non profit of your choice...in this case that would be Christian Worship Center....... this is where you come in...I need items to sell ...and I need people to SHOP...I know some of you are VERY good at that.....come on you know who you are !!! All you need to do is follow the link to my store and BUY BUY BUY !!! If you have stuff sitting around that you would consider donating....I can come and get them...or you can drop them off but the sooner we get things the better (as they will have more time to sell) So let me know if you have anything that you can donate (tax deductible) I will include a list at the end of this post... OH...ALL THE ITEMS THAT ARE FOR THE MISSION TRIP WILL HAVE A LITTLE RIBBON SYMBOL BY THEM

All the other items go to support my chocolate habit, and to help us open our home to foster care children ( I desperately need to increase my slave labor force!)

Tawni and I need Approx. $1,500 a piece ($3,000 total) That is for everything !! Though I am looking for a SMALL digital camera/video camera that I can take !!! On our Mexico trip 2 years ago I took disposable camera's and the pictures were AWFUL !!!

MOST of all we need your prayers...we want God to be with us every step of the way ! We also need His grace to learn as much Spanish as possible before we go, and we both have a goal of losing some extra baggage (if you get my drift) before we leave...SO PRAY PRAY PRAY !!!

List of easily sell able items:
Computer software, Baby clothes, Toys, Video games, WILLEMS ARTWORK (HINT HINT HINT KRISTINA KLUMPER) , audio books, games, HOMESCHOOLING STUFF, TOOLS, old grill cheese sandwiches with a picture of the virgin Mary on them....(NO REALLY IT HAPPENED!)
You name it!! It is worth a try...all the items that don't sell before July 1st will be put in a garage sale....if it still doesn't sell we will re-list it on EBay and use it for future mission trips !!!

If you just want to donate hard cold cash...we take that too!! Contact me and I will let you know where to send it !!!

THANKS !!!!!

A.S.L.

2007-04-29T22:55:00.000-07:00

HEY ALL !!

If any of you are interested in learing A.S.L.(American Sign Language) I just found an AWESOME site that is FREE !!! It is called A.S.L. University CHECK IT OUT !!!

Defining moments.........

2007-04-20T22:54:00.000-07:00

This is a plate I painted for Amy on our 25th Anniversary !
This is the card I got it off of.......

They...(I am not completely sure who"they" are but "they" seem to know everything) say that every person has 5 defining moments, 5 moments that create or change their lives......32 years ago today I had one of those moments......It was the day I met Amy.....I was only 4 but I remember it like it was yesterday...we were instant friends....and though I moved out of the state when I was 12 we maintained a close relationship......she was the Abbot to my Costello...she was the Jelly to my peanut butter.....She is such a part of who I am.......

And in 2 days there will be another "defining day".....the second anniversary of the day I lost Amy to a grand mal seizure......I am sure I will not forget that day either.....

Update...and some cute pictures.....

2007-04-13T20:27:00.000-07:00

Kenzie's surgery went well, the doctor thinks she might get good sight out of the eye.....so we will know in the next few months......These pictures are some cute ones I took the night before....

Bragging......

2007-04-09T23:13:00.000-07:00

I CAN do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength !!!
Be strong and courageous, DO not be terrified, do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you WHEREVER you GO !!!
BLESS is the man who preservers under trial......

I just had to show you all what I have been up to.......I have been working on these for the past few months...(I did have some help)they are not completely done but I am so excited about having them this far !! They really add something to our kids room at church !!

I was trying to show that no matter what we face in life GOD is with us, as I was doing it God also showed me that He didn't save these godly men BEFORE they faced these awful things...but HE was there keeping them through each situation.....as they believed and depended on Him....He was faithful to make wonderful things happen for them !!!

2007-04-09T22:40:00.000-07:00

My Kenzie is having surgery on friday.......she just turned 3 months old.....and she has a cateract (sp?) so they have to operate on her eye. Please keep her in prayer...and me and her mom......it's just scarey to have such a little one going under a knife.........

Foster family....

2007-03-05T16:37:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone !

We are looking for advice ....We are looking at becoming foster parents....and I am amazed at how many agencies there are out there for becoming a foster parent....I was hoping that someone out there has been or knows someone who has been through the process..that could give us some feedback, things to look out for and how they feel about the agency they went through....so if you know someone...point them in our direction !!! We would like to get the process started as soon as possible !!

The Cutest Babies in the WORLD !

2007-02-26T23:12:00.000-08:00

My little Kaiden Elf....

Kenzie and Kaiden

Kenzie and her man Elmo

Peek a boo!!!

Our Philly !

2007-02-05T23:58:00.000-08:00

Well, Our Philly has gone and done it!! He grew up and joined the Marine Core !!!! I know most of you have heard but I thought there might be a few who don't read the weight loss blog to find out all the latest happenings....so I thought I would let you in on the news ! Keep Kimi in prayer....her boy is gone! And I am sure even our tough, take no prisoners Kimi is having a hard time without Phil around!

I have his address at boot camp so if you want it drop me an email or phone call , I will give it to you ! I would love to see us all send him letters and care packages ! Maybe we can send a few to Kimi as well......

Tatiana's Trinkets....

2007-01-25T11:46:00.000-08:00

Yep...we did it...we joined the "IT" crowd.....you know...you can find "It" on E-Bay! (admit it you have always wanted to know someone in the "IT" crowd) We have opened an Ebay store! Right now we are selling an eclectic array of odds (Jim has a lot of those) and ends, and I have recently started selling for others as well ! I am hoping in the near future to morph my inventory into some custom personalized items ...like commemorative plates for baby's births & weddings, hand painted furniture..... Tawni is going to be making and selling jewelry.....you get the idea !

We just thought we would let you in on our little venture...we are hoping this venture will enable me to stay home, not only to homeschool Tawni but to be able to open our home for foster care!

So if you have old stuff cluttering up your pad or you have something you want to sell...let me know !!

The store is called Tatiana's Trinkets....we added a link on our sidebar !!

Just a reminder.....

2007-01-24T17:03:00.000-08:00

Remember to pray for all our guys and gals serving us .....and their families.....and the people we are fighting for....and the people we are fighting against......

I thought this picture was awesome !

The caption under the picture reads:

Air Force Master chief Sgt. John Gebhardt of the 332nd Expeditionary medical group at Balad, Iraq, cradles a young girl as they both sleep in the hospital. the girls ENTIRE family was executed by insurgents: the killers shot her iin the head as well. The girl received treatment at the military hospital , but cries and moans often. According to nurses Gebhardt is the only one who can calm her- so he has spent the last several nights holding her while they both sleep in a chair.

Torn between 2 loves.....

2007-01-19T21:12:00.000-08:00

I just downloaded a free trial of Scrapbook Max......I have been very against these digital scrapbook programs.....and I still prefer the look of the hand done pages...but the ease...the no mess...and less cost...plus the fact that I can print Multiple copies of the same page with just a click of a button have pages done for family members........NO NO don't worry I am not the new rep. for Scrapbook Max......just sharing a private battle.......to scrap the traditional way...which is an art all to itself.....or to move into the future and actually get these scrapbooks done ! What do you think???

BIG Brother Kaiden

2007-01-15T22:32:00.000-08:00

What a ham!! I just had to put these on...he is so darn cute! The other day... with a totally straight face I sat down next to Jim and said I am in love with a guy I have only known for a year........He gave me a funny look like "what?"...then I smiled and said...yep..Kaiden Robert...he's the cutes boy ever !!!

More Kenzie !!

2007-01-13T11:21:00.000-08:00

Kaiden is not to sure of Kenzie but doing much better than we thought he would be ! Kenzie is home...and oh yeah...I guess mom is too. Everyone is doing good....other than mom being so tired she can't see straight......!!

Kenzie Ruby Vogan....

2007-01-09T21:21:00.000-08:00

Sorry, I forgot to bring my card reader...so I could only download photo's from my phone ! But I wanted to get these up for the world to see my newest baby!!! Kenzie Ruby Vogan 8lbs 3oz 19&3/4 inches .....she was born at 8:28am!! Everyone is doing good and the girls are so excited!! Kaiden...well...not so much.....but he will learn to love her!!

Thank you Josh and Jessy for giving me another baby to hug, kiss and love.....spoil and send HOME !! WWWOOOHOOO !!

2007-01-07T18:46:00.000-08:00

Hey, I know death and the following grief is not something most people want to think about, but it is a fact of this life, try as you might you can not escape it. I have been through several HUGE losses in this life.....I mean we all lose people, Grandma's & PA's.....and not to belittle those losses, but you kind of expect those...you know in the back of your mind that someday you will most likely have to deal with the loss of this person...and in a way you unconsciously prepare yourself . The kind of loss I am talking about is the sudden unexpected loss, the one that hits you like a semi truck going 80 and then stops and backs over you...this time slower......I hope and pray that you NEVER have to experience this type of loss....I would not wish it on my worst enemy. I am writing all this to remind you.....that we have a friend who has experienced this kind of loss......she has started a new blog...trying to reach out and help herself and others ......I am hoping that you will pop in a support her during this time...but also that you will spread the word.....there may be someone you know who has experienced a loss and could really use a blog like this.....misery loves company.....but it helps to know that what you are feeling is normal...you are not crazy ...and there is hope !

tlclimited.blogspot.com

2006-12-29T21:23:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAREN !!

Karen,
I feel truly blessed to call you a friend !
You are such an inspiration to me, You are always there to share your wisdom, a comforting hug or a laugh ! You are one of those people who can inspire without making me feel less..does that make sense?
You have such a sweet heart, one that truly seeks to honor God in all you do. You are someone who is always seeking to be more like Jesus and you’re not afraid to do the work that it takes. I look at you and see what I aspire to be...A woman who loves the Lord, honors her husband, loves her children, and blesses her friends ! And you do it all with a sweet and humble heart. I admire you more than words can say ! I hope you have a wonderful Birthday and a blessed year ahead ! I wish I could be down there to hug you in person...so just consider yourself HUGGED !

2006-12-27T14:18:00.000-08:00

Noah's Ark Everything I need to know, I learned from Noah's Ark.

ONE: Don't miss the boat.

TWO: Remember that we are all in the same boat.

THREE: Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.

FOUR: Stay fit. When you're 60 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.

FIVE: Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.

SIX: Build your future on high ground.

SEVEN: For safety's sake, travel in pairs.

EIGHT: Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.

NINE: When you're stressed, float awhile.

TEN: Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.

ELEVEN: No matter the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.

Shocking ...I know!

2006-12-24T22:57:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas !!!

I know it's hard to believe....a family picture of the Bicklers!! We only do this about once every 10 years...so take a good look...you probably won't see another one for a while...unless of course I drop a million pounds like some other unnamed person .... or persons.......

We wish you all a blessed and wonderful Christmas ! We feel truly honored and extremely blessed to have such awesome people in our lives !!! **We love you man!!** SNIFF** I'm not cryin...it's just my allergies.....**Sniff**

A picture is worth a thousand words...this one maybe more....

2006-12-19T14:16:00.000-08:00

That is Jim's guilty "who me?" look..... That's me saying "you just wait till there are no witness's!!! This moment captured by our very own Julie Paine!! Thank you Julie!

Our Little T

2006-12-07T16:06:00.000-08:00

Lorrie has started a web page honoring the life of her little T . It has some great pictures and Lorrie really shares from her heart! I know my "Amy" blog has really helped me through the grief process and I added Thomas and Lorries site so we can support her during this time! It's going to be a LONG , very hard road, the whole family will need our continued support, but most of all our prayers! Get your tissues, take a few minutes, let them know you are thinking about them ! I added a link at the side called Our Little T...go check it out and leave a note !

I'm dreaming....Of a white Christmas.....

2006-11-29T15:02:00.000-08:00

WOW ! I don't know about the rest of you but the first day we got 11 inches!! And we have only added to it since then !! Makes it really feel like Christmas for Jim and I !!! I know it's not as easy to get around...but in Idaho and Montana ...we do this for at least 4 months out of the year !! Jim and I love it!!! We dont love the 4 hour commutes home in the middle of the night...but hopefully that will get better!!

Do you ever wonder???

2006-11-28T18:40:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wonder what your kids are doing when your not paying attention?? I laughed so hard when I saw these I had to share them with you.....and just a note...this isn't ALL the pictures....just a few of the best!!

2006-11-09T17:26:00.000-08:00

There are 299,968,595 people in the United States of America. If everyone in the U.S. lined up single file, the line would stretch around the Earth almost 7 times. That's a lot of people.
The U.S. Census Bureau statistics tell us that there are at least 88,799 different last names and 5,163 different first names in common use in the United States. Some names are more common than others.
There are 49,535 people named John Smith in the United States. There are 1,048 people named James Bond, 113 people named Harry Potter , 503 people named George Bush, and 31 people named Emily Dickinson. However, Johnny Cash (39 people) songs aside there are, statistically speaking, no boys named Sue.
What about you? How many people share your name? Enter it and find out how many of you there are.

HowManyOfMe.com

There are:
0
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

WOW ! What a suprise! NOT ! God knew there could only be one me!! But it also said there was no one else with the name Sundee....I know that is not true...there is a whole Sundee group on "My Space"

There are 12 Jim Bicklers !! AHAH ! If that don't scare ya ....nothin will !

15 years......

2006-11-09T16:36:00.000-08:00

WOW ! 15 years ! I know I should be getting some type of award for this.....15 years with a Bickler man? It is not for the faint of heart that's for sure !

Yes, it's true...15 years ago today Jim and I snuck off and got ourselves hitched! Life has not always been easy and there are times I am amazed we made it through....by Gods grace alone I assure you !
We have learned to laugh at ourselves, and hold on tight through what ever life has to throw at us ! Jim , you may be a pain in my behind some times but I love you and I don't know how I would live without you !

2006-11-02T20:06:00.000-08:00

Here is another wonderful one......does anyone have any idea whats up?? I have not been able to get a picture to load for days....it goes through the whole process fine...but this is the best I can get....alot of the time I get nothing!!! AHASHAHA ! I am very frusterated!!! HELP !!!

2006-11-02T20:03:00.000-08:00

I am having problems posting pitures!~~~~ IS anyone else???

Little Thomas......4/27/06 -10/25/06

2006-10-27T21:52:00.000-07:00

For some reason I have been unable to even look at this picture since I heard the news.....It was sent to me the night before.......and I have thought about putting it on here many times....but was so unsure of what to say......there are no words that can express how our heart aches for the whole family......... Keep them in your prayers.....It is a hard road they must travel from here......They will need all the love and support we can give them!!

A word from the family and funeral info:

Dear Friends and Family, near and far:

We are sad to share the news of the loss of our 6-month-old baby son, Thomas Michael Boettger II. His death occurred in the early hours of Wednesday October 25th in San Diego, CA at the end of a Disneyland family vacation. The cause of his death remains unknown at this time, but many suffer the loss and we as his family are grieved beyond measure.

We now await the return of our sweet son from California, which should occur on Tuesday this coming week. A service to honor his life and to remember everything about this wonderful baby boy will be held Saturday November 4th at 2pm at St. David's Episcopal Church located at 324 Cedar St., Shelton, WA.

We have received offers by so many of assistance of any kind; though at first we did not even know what to ask, we as a family have discovered that we do have needs and we have been told that we should allow our friends and community to help...so here we spell out those needs:

A fund has been set up at Lynch Creek Floral here in Shelton for flowers for our little guy’s service. Any and all contributions of any amount will be greatly appreciated, so that we may have our little man surrounded by a “sea of white roses”.
Please contact Colleen at 360 426 8615 and state that you are contributing to the “Baby Thomas Fund”. The deadline for contributions to this fund for ordering and arrangements will be close of business on Wednesday November 1st.

The daunting cost of having Little T cared for after his death has become immense. Because he is in California he has to be prepared, flown from California to Washington and transported to the funeral home...this leg of his journey has already proven to be unbelievably costly. There are numerous other arrangements to be made from that point. Simply put, we want to honor our son and make opportunity for all who knew him and us to visit and say a last farewell, and we are asking all of our friends and family for whatever help they might be able to offer toward these expenses.
Our dear friend, Marie Lindeen, is handling the details of these financial matters for us. Should you feel in your heart to contribute, please give her a call {(H) 360-432-9753 and (Cell) 360-463-6206 } and she will handle everything directly.

We cannot express our gratitude enough for ANY help. It goes without saying that while our family walks through this terribly difficult and painful situation, the biggest blessing to us would be to see our friends and families join us for our son's service on Saturday. We covet prayers and thoughts on our behalf and we are so thankful for the support and love that we feel from so many people.

Sincerely,The BoettgersLorrie, Thomas, Natanya...

Happy Birthday Jessy!!!

2006-10-16T09:17:00.000-07:00

Wasn't she sweet??? Aka..sessy ree ca (tawni at 2) Jessica Marie (when she is in trouble...which is alot!)

The most recent photo....I could find anyways!!

The "LOOK"...(photo on the right)her face stayed this way through most of her teen years.....it occationally pops up now...and she has passed it on to one of her daughters........

HAPPY 25th BIRTHDAY JESSY !!!

Jessy is the thief who stole my Crown as baby of the family after an 11 year reign.

Jessy is the one who brought us hours and hours of laughter, always making faces or sayin something funny..... ( I had some pictures to prove this point but Jim wouldn't let me put them on here!)

Jessy is the one who was the biggest PAIN IN THE BUTT during her teenage years. (stealing the crown from my older sister!!!)

Jessy is the mother of my beautiful babies..... (she does make some CUTE babies!!)

Jessy is my clothing critic

Jessy is my shopping buddy

Jessy is my best friend.

She makes me laugh, she's a pain in my butt, she my sounding board, she's my baby sister, and I love her.

Happy 1st Birthday Kaiden !!!!

2006-10-15T20:50:00.000-07:00

My Kaiden boy turned one on the 8th...I am a little late..but I had to share these photo's !! Kaiden is the CUTEST, SWEETEST boy EVER !!! He is such a blessing and I don't know how we made it through a day without him in our lives!!

2006-10-08T21:18:00.000-07:00

On the road again........Don't ever want to get on the road again..... Hee hee..just kidding.. We made it back safe and sound from our long journey. I have to admit it was a beautiful drive....sometimes I fail to notice what a beautiful drive it is. We went to Montana first to pick up the junk..I mean stuff we had in storage at Jim's parents house. (As if we " needed" these long lost treasures) Do you ever wonder where all this "stuff" comes from and why we seem to need it so much??? Anyways we now have all our junk..ooops stuff in one place.......

Then we went to Pocatello, Id....my home town. To get some chairs from my granny that belonged to her mother . It was great to see her and everyone else.

Cassie's family still needs lots of prayer, there were over 500 people at her memorial. The whole city seems to be mourning her loss . I can't even begin to imagine their pain.......

Please pray..... A life cut far to short

2006-09-30T20:50:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of Cassie Jo Stoddart, 16, of Pocatello Idaho. She is the daughter of one of our cousins. She was raped and murdered by two 16yr old boys last weekend while she house sat for another cousin. I never had the honor of meeting her but we are still shocked and saddened by the loss. Please keep the family in prayer.

Blessings.....

2006-09-27T00:07:00.000-07:00

Well , if you are even a semi faithful reader of our blog then you have heard me rant and rave for years over all our problems and woes......I have to be honest.....even with the new house I have been waiting for the "other" shoe to drop.....for something bad to happen and take it all away........Well are you sitting down??? I don't want you to get hurt when you pass out, I am here to share about the blessings that seem to flow from every direction. There is of course the house........We really would have been excited and happy with just about anything as long as it was ours.....but this house was by far the best we had seen, the whole thing...though trying and a bit stressful went very smoothly.......they closed a VA loan on a little over 2 weeks....MIRACLE!!! Since then it has been one blessing after another.....All I have to do is say "God, I would really love these curtains for my house" BOOM..next day found them for $5 bucks a panel !!! "Lord, I really need a new vehicle......." BAM.....New Suburban, at the price and payment I had asked God for........It has been happening everywhere....I was looking at our kitchen chairs and thought...we could use some new ones.......Next day linda pulls up and asks if I need some....her mom was getting rid of some......they even match the colors I am using in my house......I kinda feel like a kid in a candy shop with Grandpa.........all I need do is ask......... I am truly thankful !!! I am almost afraid to buy things I need....cuz I keep thinking...nope I am gonna wait and see what God's gonna do....cuz He's been gettin me much better deals then I can get on my own......

I see boxes..............

2006-09-06T10:32:00.000-07:00

Boxes here.......
Boxes there......
Boxes everywhere......
This is the only view I have seen for over a month now.........just when you think your getting somewhere....more boxes appear........They seem to be multiplying all on their own.........
I have nightmares about being buried alive in boxes!!!! By the way....has anyone seen my husband????

2006-08-24T09:37:00.000-07:00

Tagged again thanks to Karen

Five things in my freezer:
1. Chicken Strips
2. Lemon aide ( A MUST during summer.....unless Kie is around to make it for me!)
3. Organic Beef- I have enough estrogen without adding all the fake stuff!
4. Frozen mixed berries -For smoothies! Want one? come on over!
5. ummm not much else...we are moving....trying to keep it low

Five things in my closet:
1. 6 boxes- full of ? who knows...I can't keep track any more!
2. A desk- (it's a huge walk in closet...I will miss this part of this house)
3. A computer (on the desk)
4. A printer
5. Me (It's so big we used it as an "office" as well!)

Five things in my car:
1. Boxes-They are everywhere.......
2. Fast food bags and cups
3. MORE boxes.....
4. a few tapes...yes I said Tapes...some people still use them and are to poor to buy a CD player!
5. Did I mention Boxes ???

Five things in my purse: (A new one I got for my Birthday...thanks MRS. PAINE !)
1. Wallet
2. cell phone
3. Pens
4. Address book
5. keys...to my new house!! WHOO HOO !!

Five people I tag:

KRISTINA
LIS
Nikki
Elicia
TawniVern

It has COME !! FREEDOM FEST!!!

2006-08-19T09:56:00.000-07:00

Today is the day !! WWWWOOO HOOOOOO !! Bryan plays at 1:00pm on the second stage and again at 11pm !!! We hope you can all come out and support him, we know most of you don't even know him but you can do it for Jim and Kristin...!! He is an awesome young man and has a great future ahead of him....you will be able to say "I met him when......." Hope we see you out there!!!

2006-08-05T08:46:00.000-07:00

We have decided to become Omish. I was suppose to leave for Idaho to see my Granny last night, but my sisters van broke down.......for me this is the 3rd major break down this year.....2 of the cars are completely dead. We are taking it to the doctor later....PLEASE PRAY that the operation will go well and my sisters van will make a full recovery!! I need to see my Granny!! Oh ! To top this off...we thought ...hey lets just rent a van...our Granny is worth it!! There is not a van or SUV available in WESTERN WASHINGTON !!! I even called the Bellingham AIRPORT!!! AHAHAHAH !! SO frustrating !!!

So if ya see us goin down the road in horse and buggy....you'll know why........

MINE...MINE....Alll.....ooops OURS...OURS...ALL OURS!!!

2006-08-04T11:41:00.000-07:00

WE GOT THE KEYS !! IT'S ALL MINE...ooops...OURS !!!

** PROUD MAMMA NOTE: the flower picture was taken by Tawni Vern!! I am thinking of blowing it up and using it in my bedroom!!

Waiting.....

2006-07-31T14:28:00.000-07:00

Well it is a V. A. Loan...so we were not completely surprised when the closing got delayed....Hopefully tomorrow !! PRAY nothing goes wrong......!! For now...we just wait..........

**UPDATE: Still no word from Escrow company...so hopefully we can close on WED now......(I leave on Thursday for 10 days...going to Idaho to see Granny Gish) Please pray...I really want to do a little dance in my living room....roll on the grass in the back yard...you know...all the usual stuff a first time home buyer dreams of.........

UPDATE....ON THE UPDATE! - We did get to go in and sign all the paperwork.....but we don't get the keys till later this afternoon(WED) or tomorrow...(THURSDAY).....So we are still...you guessed it......waiting......

(Thurs. Aug. 3rd)UPDATE , UPDATE and yet another UPDATE: Still waiting......and waiting.....

Summer Classes for Men..sign up now space is limited!!

2006-07-25T23:12:00.000-07:00

SUMMER CLASSES FOR MEN
AT

THE LEARNING CENTER FOR ADULTS

REGISTRATION MUST BE COMPLETED BY Monday, July 31, 2006
NOTE: DUE TO THE COMPLEXITY AND DIFFICULTY LEVELOF THEIR CONTENTS, CLASS SIZES WILL BE LIMITED TO 8 PARTICIPANTS MAXIMUM.

Class 1 How To Fill Up The Ice Cube Trays --- Step by Step, with Slide Presentation.
Meets 4 weeks, Monday and Wednesday for 2 hours beginning at 7:00 PM.

Class 2 The Toilet Paper Roll --- Does It Change Itself? Round Table Discussion.
Meets 2 weeks, Saturday 12:00 for 2 hours.

Class 3 Is It Possible To Urinate Using The Technique Of Lifting The Seat andAvoiding The Floor, Walls and Nearby Bathtub? --- Group Practice.
Meets 4 weeks, Saturday 10:00 PM for 2 h ours.

Class 4 Fundamental Differences Between The Laundry Hamper and The Floor ---Pictures and Explanatory Graphics. Meets Saturdays at 2:00 PM for 3 weeks.

Class 5 After Dinner Dishes --- Can They Levitate and Fly Into The Kitchen Sink?
Examples on Video.
Meets 4 weeks, Tuesday and Thursday for 2 hours beginningat 7:00 PM

Class 6 Loss Of Identity --- Losing The Remote To Your Significant Other.Help Line Support and Support Groups.Meets 4 Weeks, Friday and Sunday 7:00 PM

Class 7 Learning How To Find Things --- Starting With Looking In The Right Places And Not Turning The House Upside Down While Screaming.Open Forum .Monday at 8:00 PM, 2 hours.

Class 8 Health Watch --- Bringing Her Flowers Is Not Harmful To Your Health.
Graphics and Audio Tapes.Three nights; Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 7:00 PM for 2 hours.

Class 9 Real Men Ask For Directions When Lost --- Real Life Testimonials.
Tuesdays at 6:00 PM Location to be determined.

Class 10 Is It Genetically Impossible To Sit Quietly While She Parallel Parks?
Driving Simulations.4 weeks, Saturday's noon, 2 hours.

Class 11 Learning to Live --- Basic Differences Between Mother and Wife.
Online Classes and role-playing .Tuesdays at 7:00 PM, location to be determined

Class 12 How to be the Ideal Shopping CompanionRelaxation Exercises, Meditation and Breathing Techniques.
Meets 4 weeks, Tuesday and Thursday for 2 hours ! beginning at 7:00 PM.

Class 13 How to Fight Cerebral Atrophy --- Remembering Birthdays, Anniversaries and Other Important Dates and Calling When You're Going To Be Late.Cerebral Shock Therapy Sessions and Full Lobotomies Offered.Three nights; Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 7:00 PM for 2 hours.

Class 14 The Stove/Oven --- What It Is and How It Is Used.Live Demonstration.
Tuesdays at 6:00 PM, location to be determined.

Upon completion of any of the above courses,diplomas will be issued to the survivors.

2006-07-18T14:13:00.000-07:00

I have just been called on the carpet for not posting the details along with the photo's !! I am so sorry !! Here it is!!

It's in Arlington (Smokey Point), Its 4 Bdrm 2 bath, about 1,600 sq ft , a fire place, a clawfoot bath tub, 2 Car man cave ( A MUST) its on a little over 1/3 acre !! It has a great fenced back yard with an apple tree and a pear tree, (Jim and Tawni are allergic to most anything healthy but these are 2 on the very small list of healthy things they will eat!! ) It also has BIG kennel for our little Minnie !! It has a great front porch and is in a nice quiet little neighborhood !! It also comes with ALL the Appliances ! They are even leaving us their lawn mower and the 2 rocking chairs on the front porch !!!WE ARE SO EXCITED !! PLEASE PRAY THAT NOTHING GETS IN THE WAY OF THIS HOUSE !!!

INSPECTION.......

2006-07-15T15:41:00.000-07:00

A bird bath...no dirty birds around our house!!
Flowers along the front porch.....For Tawni...I am a known plant killer...one of my many talnets!
Wishing well planter!!

Upstairs Bedroom....

Our wonderful friend Mr Ernest Leroy Peck III inspected the house today for us and gave it a clean bill of health...a few minor repairs, nothing to stop the sale over !!! I also discovered an apple tree and a pear tree in our back yard !! WooHOOO !!! Two of the few healthy things I can get my family to eat!!

and some more......HEE HEE HEE

2006-07-15T15:32:00.000-07:00

One of the upstairs bedrooms.......
The frount porch....she's leaving me the chairs and the swing!!!
The upstairs bathroom ......

Another part of the upstairs room....haven't decided if it will be Tawni's room or the office....

Just a few more pictures..not excited or anything....

2006-07-14T17:24:00.000-07:00

Our soon to be new back yard....

This is the front yard to the side of the house ...its an odd shaped lot.
Our new living room...notice the porch swing through the window..LOVE IT !

My new kitchen...needs some upgrades but I am up to the challenge..plus I have been babysitting for free for my sister......HEE HEE HEE ...her husband is in the construction trade...so his bill is about to become DUE!!! All the appliances come with it...they aren't top of the line but it saves us lots of money to start out with !!!

2006-07-14T09:52:00.000-07:00

They accepted the offer !!! WWWHHHOOOO !!!! I am trying to not get excited until the last paper is signed !! But...its not working !!!!!

We made an offer!!

2006-07-13T21:36:00.000-07:00

We made an offer today !!! Keep your fingers, toes and eyes crossed !! PRAY !! PRAY !!!

Every Day Death: Becoming Teachable

2006-06-21T10:59:00.000-07:00

"Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching. They will be a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck."-Proverbs 1:8-9

Have you ever tried to debate with someone who is convinced that they are right? You try and you try to reason with them, but they refuse to consider the possibility that they are wrong. As frustrated as I often am by stubborness, I confess that I can be extremely stubborn myself. I tend to want to teach---not be taught!

Proverbs 15:32 says,
"He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding."
We all want to be wise and have understanding, but do we take the steps required to become wise? Do we listen and accept rebuke? We cannot make any steps toward wisdom without being willing to surrender and be taught. Surrender.

Jim Elliot once wrote,
"'He makes His ministers a flame of fire.' Am I ignitible? God deliver me from the dread asbestos of 'other things.' Saturate me with the oil of the Spirit that I may be a flame. But flame is transient, often short-lived. Canst thou bear this, my soul--short life? In me there dwells the Spirit of the Great Short-Lived, whose zeal for God's house consumed Him. 'Make me Thy Fuel, Flame of God.'"

Not long after writing the above quote, Jim Elliot left with his young wife for the mission field in Ecuador. There, he and four other missionaries attempted to reach a previously unreached Indian tribe--the Aucas--with the Word of God. On January 8, 1956, they were attacked by a group of Auca tribesmen. Though each of the missionaries had brought rifles with them for protection, they all refused to use them in self defense. Every one of the missionaries was killed.
All five of the missionaries who died were young, newly married, and seemed to have their entire lives ahead of them. Yet, conscious of the danger of trying to reach the Aucas, they sacrificed their own interests for the purpose of obeying God. What does this have to do with us? It is most likely that we will not all have to die for our faith as Jim Elliot did, but each of us must die to ourselves.

"Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." Matthew 16:24

It has been said before that it is easier for us to surrender our bodies to death than it is to surrender our will to God. This death to ourselves is not one that we only die once, but it is a continual, every day death to our own selfish desires. This surrender includes giving up our own stubbornness and willfulness and laying it at Christ's feet, giving it up so that we might become teachable and pliable in His hands.

Charles Spurgeon said,
"Jesus is to believers the one pearl of great price, for whom we are willing to part with all that we have. He has so completely won our love, that it beats alone for him; to his glory we would live, and in defense of his gospel we would die; he is the pattern of our life, and the model after which we would sculpture our character. PaulÂs words mean more than most men think; they imply that the aim and end of his life was ChristÂnay, his life itself was Jesus. In the words of an ancient saint, he did eat, and drink, and sleep eternal life. Jesus was his very breath, the soul of his soul, the heart of his heart, the life of his life.
Can you say, as a professing Christian, that you live up to this idea? Can you honestly say that for you to live is Christ? Your businessÂare you doing it for Christ? Is it not done for self- aggrandizement and for family advantage? Do you ask, ÂIs that a mean reason?Â
For the Christian it is. He professes to live for Christ; how can he live for another object without committing a spiritual adultery? Many there are who carry out this principle in some measure; but who is there that dare say that he hath lived wholly for Christ as the apostle did? Yet, this alone is the true life of a ChristianÂits source, its sustenance, its fashion, its end, all gathered up in one wordÂChrist Jesus. Lord, accept me; I here present myself, praying to live only in thee and to thee. Let me be as the bullock which stands between the plough and the altar, to work or to be sacrificed; and let my motto be, 'Ready for either.'Â
_____________________________________
Jim Elliot quote taken from Through the Gates of Splendor, by Elisabeth Elliot, page 18
Charles Spurgeon quote from Christian Classics Ethereal Library Re-posted by Kristin, originally written by Hannah Beth

This post was from a blog called "Beauty from the Heart" It is a blog written by 3 young women, ages 14-17 !! They AMAZE me with their depth, wisdom, humility and beauty. We can learn alot from these teens !! They are the kind that keep me going....making me believe that teens don't have to go the rebellious stage in order to truly know God. They challenge me to be better than I am, I pray that Tawni will have such a heart when she is a teen!!!

When a man turns 40......

2006-06-15T15:38:00.000-07:00

AAAAHHHHH ! I'm HOW OLD?!?!!?

What happens when a man turns 40?? Well as these pictures prove .....the normally unfeeling male goes through a wide range of emotions ....mostly SHOCK & Fear.......but there you have it!
The real question now is....will his face stay like that?? Will it ever be the same??

HAPPY 40th BIRTHDAY JEFFREY!!!!!

P.S These pictures were taken when he was exactly half the age he is now !!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MRS>KLUMPER!!!

2006-06-11T15:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Kristina!!!

Today my Kristina is...well...ok maybe we won't say her age...But I will say she is more beautiful now than she was when I met her 18+ years ago.....now if that doesn't make you feel old......

She is a wonderful friend, always there to lend an ear and shoulder if need be.....She has helped our family in time of need and she can always make me laugh...on top of all that...she gives a GREAT back rub!!!What more could you want in a friend???

I Love ya Kristina!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY JIMMY!!

2006-06-07T22:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Jimmy!!!
There he is.....doesn't this picture just show the real him!!
He's Ornery, obstinate, sneaky and a pain in my butt most days but I love him more than words can say. I guess that would make me kinda weird for lovin him but he's all those things and so much more!
He's beyond giving...he gives of his time, talents, money, opinions(to freely some might say!) and would give you the shirt off his back in the middle of a blizzard, He's always doing something for someone(usually me) even when he REALLY doesn't want to!
He's funny... ok...well corny...but he tries and that just makes him extra cute,(sorry I know MEN don't like the word cute...)
He is always there to help (he's help people move more times than I can count) and he often goes out of his way to do it!
He's loyal, he sticks by friends and family, even when they might not deserve it!!
He's dependable (most of the time...I wouldn't depend on him to take a plate of brownies anywhere!) ,
He's a GREAT father,even when he's teaching my then 4 yr old daughter to moon people..or that its really funny to fart and burp in public!!!
MY BEST FRIEND ......
and I couldn't imagine my life without him.

Keep your finger, toes & what ever else you can manage crossed!!

2006-06-06T16:02:00.000-07:00

We have wanted a house for a long time...almost as much as our friends want us to have a house so that we will quit moving in with them!!! Well our mortgage lady is sitting with her underwriting person now....we are sitting here staring at the computer....waiting to get her email......so please pray hard fast and continuously..... we are sooo excited!!!

WE ARE SO EXCITED !! AND WE JUST CAN"T HIDE IT!!!

2006-06-01T05:11:00.000-07:00

BRAYN MADE FREEDOM FEST!!!!!

BRYAN MADE FREEDOM FEST !!!! WWWHHHOOOO !!!
We are so Excited !! He plays on Aug. 19th !! Everybody has to come !!
**For those who don't know Bryan is Jim's cousins Kid..who has a passion for music and an awesome Talent to go with it!! He has already produced an album with a band, the band has since broken up...but Bryan is just about finished with his solo album!! He also writes his own music !!And he's only 17!! We can't wait to see what the future holds for him ! But for now it is FREEDOM FEST !! At Stocker farms in Snohomish Aug 19th!! For more info go to Freedom Fest Or BryanWoodMusic.com....

Let us not forget....

2006-05-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

As we run off to our BBQ's and the beach, as we enjoy a day off...lets not forget why we have this day off from our far to busy lives......It is to honor our fallen soldiers. The one's who gave it all so that we could live free....... Let's not forget that there are men and women out there right now fighting......and their families that are missing them.......
Lets not forget to pray for them and for this war that is taking so many........

I wanna be a cowgirl.....

2006-05-27T21:06:00.000-07:00

Of course with "T" taking a riding lesson the girls couldn't be left out. They got a 30 minute mini lesson, and by the end could handle the horse themselves!! They did a great job !

( of course the teacher called Jimmi their GRANDPA!!! HA HA That made my day!!!)

Tawni's First riding lesson!!

2006-05-27T20:59:00.000-07:00

Tawni had her first riding lesson today!! She is doing a working student program, she works for 3 hours a week, mucking stalls and caring for horses, then she gets a 2 hour riding lesson. So today in the rain she managed to make it through all 5 hours!! We will give you an update tomorrow...I am sure she will be feeling it then!!

Go forth and Multiply.....we really took that teaching to heart!!

2006-05-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

Introducing Thomas Michael Boettger II -born April 27th, 21 inches long 8lbs 6oz

He was 24 days early ! Wow ! Think of how big he would have been !! OUCH ! Everyone is doing good.....

Yes, that is Natty holding him..she's 9 !! Can you believe it ?!?!

Look at those cheeks !!!

Next up !!

Anthony F Born May 15th 7lbs 15oz

This makes 5 for the F. family...hey they can start their own music group now!! The F. Five !! Hee Hee..anyways I think we need to start a campain to get the F. Family here for the 4th!!! We need e-mailers and letter writers(we do still know how to write don't we?)
Phone callers!!! UNITE !! We can get them here! Even if it is kicking and screaming!!!

Look how much hair!!

WOW !! 4 Babies for our J.C. gang in less than a month!!!

Does anybody (meaning Jen , Lisa or Kristina) have a head count on how MANY J.C. kids we have now????

2006-05-17T23:04:00.000-07:00

Ya know when you were a kid and your Dad really made you mad ....and you would lay there day dreaming of how you could get him back??!! WELL MY TIME HAS COME!! I am so glad to be able to share it with you!! Some of you may have wondered in the past where I got my weird streak...well NOW YOU KNOW!!!

I'm in a hurry but don't know why....

2006-05-16T14:26:00.000-07:00

Rush here...rush there..busy busy busy!!! I am so busy I actually quadruple booked myself for this Saturday and double booked myself for Sunday!! On Saturday I am suppose to
A. take my mom to Portland for a women's conference (we actually leave Friday night)
B. Tawni's FIRST day of riding lessons and working out at Horse Country Farm in Granite Falls ( approx 5.5 hours)
C. Nadia & Kyairra are having their first official Birthday Party with friends from school ( I was suppose to help)
D. My dear Friend Ernie is turning 40 !! I can't miss that right??

Oh Heck!! I just remembered another thing I was suppose to do!!

E. The Spring Celebration for all the BIG Losers over at Julies weight loss blog!
(no I am not a BIG loser, but I thought I could go glare at the girls that did lose big!!)

Then on Sunday :
A. Baby shower for our Woodward girl Bethany.....
B. A going away party for some friends a church !!

We won't even talk about the fact that all this rushing here and there has left my house a national disaster area, laundry piled up to my nose(which doesn't smell pretty), a dog that needs washed, dishes........aaahhhh....you know the list...it never ends!!

How does one get so busy??? Better question.. HOW DOES ONE GET UNBUSY!?!! If anyone has any idea's for answering this monster question ...I am open for suggestions !! I don't want to be here....I am one of those who would be totally cool living on a farm, taking care of my family..leaving the house only once or twice a week....... Want my opinion ? Of course you do!! If not ya better stop reading now....cuz I am gonna give it to ya!! I think Satan gets us so busy ...doing alot of "good" things, that we are to busy to be doing what God wants us to be doing....plus it's really alot less work for him...he doesn't have to bother tempting us...cuz we are so busy that we aren't taking enough time to talk to God let alone HEAR from God. My goal this summer is to streamline my schedule, work on the things that are really important...and let the other "stuff" go.....Does My daughter really need to have 10 different things going? Or would the time be better spent just hanging out with Jim and I?? Camping, playing games, swimming, fishing........they are only young once and it is going so quickly!!
Anywho...If you all could pray for me...pray that I will learn to say NO, learn to keep my focus on the important things, and pray that I will have grace and strength to let go off all the things I "think" I "need" to be doing!!

Happy 6th Birthday Kyairra & Nadia!!

2006-05-11T20:02:00.000-07:00

Happy 6th Birthday to my wild and wonderful girls!! I can't believe you are 6 already!! I love you and I am excited to see you grow up more beautiful everyday !!

a little quote ....

2006-05-08T16:40:00.000-07:00

In a quote from Perry Marshall, “Accusing a homeschool kid of missing out on ‘socialization’ is like accusing a work-at-home entrepreneur of missing out on corporate politics” (Marshall, pg 11)

2006-04-28T18:22:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Please pray for our Jolene ! Post partum has hit again and she could really use our love, support and prayers right now!! If you have some extra time give her a call or go out and see her !! Jolene is always there when others are in need and I would really love to see her showered with blessings right now!!

***UPDATE**** She is still having a rough time...PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE... know we are all busy...but this is where the rubber meets the road ladies......take the time to call or send a card and stop by if at all possible!!!! Jeff goes back to work Tue. night and she will need you more than ever!!!

Introducing..(drum roll please..) Bethany Joy Woodward!

2006-04-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

WOW !! It's a little Woodward girl!! For all of you who were wondering what a Woodward girl would look like..now ya know!! She is 6lbs 8oz 18 inches long.....SSOOO tiny compared to the boys!!! Momma and Daddy are doing good, they should be home sometime on Saturday !! So stop by and see them, they are at Providence in Everett, 4th floor room 431.

We are all so excited for them!! Congratulations!!!!!!