SUE HEIMER

Taking a break

2010-10-15T06:49:00.000-07:00

As some of my dear blog friends may have noticed, my posts have been spartan lately with wider gaps in between my postings.
After much deliberation and prayer, I have decided to take a break from my blog. I will miss corresponding with each one of you. It has been a blast. However, I have many "irons in the fire" at this season of my life, and need to step back from a few things...even things I love to be involved in.
And by the way, I am now on facebook! So if your on too, I would love to be your friend!
Love to each of you!
Sue

Home from N.C.

2010-09-29T13:19:00.000-07:00

I returned home last evening from Lake Lure, NC, where I had a speaking engagement Monday night. I met an amazing group of women in this beautiful southern state! They were warm, friendly and how do you spell "southern hospitality"???They practice this to excellence. So to Jan, the Pams, Bobbie Jean, Mary Ellen and all the rest of the "Sister Chicks", THANK YOU, from the bottom of my heart. It was a privilege to spend precious moments with you. Just wish we had more time:(

Getting Ready.

2010-09-21T17:24:00.000-07:00

These past few weeks, I have been surrounded by books and my bible. My desk is cluttered with sticky notes and scrap pieces of paper. I am getting ready to get "back in the saddle" speaking, after taking a 2 month summer break.
I am just so excited, to share, what the Lord has been teaching me, I can hardly stand it. So, look out, ladies in the Lake Lure, NC area we are going to have a blast together!

When your stuck!

2010-09-09T06:04:00.000-07:00

Please join me in this hilarious moment this past weekend. While attending my sons football game, I got chilled, as the sun set and the temperature dipped. Jogging to the truck, I grabbed a pullover to slip on. Well, I got stuck in it. With my arms pinned to the side of my head, I was totally incapable of finishing the task of putting it on. My daughter-in-law, came to my rescue, and my son, grabbed the camera for this "memory maker moment".

I have been mulling over this scene for a few days. There are times when I feel stuck.

Stuck in a emotion.

Stuck in a relationship.

Stuck in a financial situation.

Stuck in a habit.

Stuck in a lifestyle.

Stuck in ________. You fill in the blank. What do you get stuck on?

***At Any given time, God gives you and I the right to choose. We do not have to say "This is just the way I am, So, I guess I am stuck." Whatever YOUR stuck is today, can you lay it down and get "unstuck"? It may take allot of work and perseverance. God wants us to live in freedom and victory and will pry us out of our stuck-ness (is this a word?). Watch for HIM today.

I would have lots of time, if my family did not wear clothes!

2010-09-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

Rabbits multiply at lightning speed, as does our laundry. This was the delight of my morning. NOT. Four days worth of clothing needed to be washed. If only my family went naked:)

Weekend Get-away

2010-08-26T08:02:00.000-07:00

Last weekend my man and I headed to Missouri for a few days away. As we drove along the winding rural roads, I could feel myself begin to unwind and relax.
The need for a break had been evident for several weeks and further confirmed when I got stressed out because there is not a "Taco Bell" at the exit we chose for lunch!
Really...Taco Bell?...this is your final clue you need to stop and take a "pause" in your life.
We stayed in a beautiful, remote cabin with no Internet or ESPN:) Thanks to the gracious generosity of my brother and sister-in-law. We laughed, talked and had fun. You know F-U-N! I almost needed the word explained to me:) I looked up some similar words in my Thesaurus.They included;amusement,enjoyment,pleasure, play,sport,good times, romping, blast, frolic and merriment. Yes, fun, is a accurate description of our get-a-way.

Do you need any fun infused in your life? We did!

State Fair Champion

2010-08-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

Home. It feels good.

The cupboards are bare, there is a mountain of laundry that is begging for attention, and the mail needs to be sorted.

The remnants of being at the State Fair for 7 days.

However, the results of our State Fair visit was priceless. I have posted pictures of me doing the "mom thing". Why is it that I resemble the "bag lady"? Oh, yeah, it is because the last person to leave the hotel (which is me) brings the cooler, cameras, coffee, McDonald's, show shirts and anything else that we could possible need for a day at the fair:) Including Aleve! Lots of Aleve!

And we did have a successful fair. Winning Grand Champion Yorkshire Gilt. The picture of her and Brock is not so great...but you get the idea. There is a picture of her selling in the sale yesterday along with a few candid shots of County Fair also, where she won Grand Gilt last week.

Making memories.....exhausting......but priceless!

County and State fair time!

2010-08-09T19:09:00.000-07:00

We are in the thick of County and State Fair. We just finished county fair yesterday and are off to State Fair at 4 am tomorrow. It is predicted to be 95 tomorrow so we want to beat the heat. Our livestock will appreciate it:)

Brock, our youngest at 16, won Grand Champion at County Fair. Pictures of the fun will follow next week when we return from the State Competition.

Until then......

When no one is looking.

2010-07-29T08:50:00.000-07:00

I was caught in a terrific down pour last week.The raindrops seemed as big as dimes, and coupled with the gusting wind, made a drenching combination. Standing in the middle of a grocery store parking lot, with a cartload of groceries, is a far from ideal place to be when God decides to water the earth in such a dramatic way. As the river of water flowed over my sandals, I hastily tossed the groceries in the back of the suburban.
Completing the task at hand, I looked around for a "cart corral" to put the shopping cart in it's rightful, safe place. Ugg, wouldn't you know it, the corral was 5 car rows away! I was already quite wet and knew a dash across the parking lot would totally soak the few dry areas left on my being.
I looked around, to see if anyone was watching. Maybe I could just leave the cart next to the vehicle, hop in and take off. Surely people would understand, given the circumstances. Except maybe the person whom owns the car, that the cart will ultimately roll into, and scratch:)
Ok, I put the cart back in its proper spot. But not after some serious hesitation!

I want to be a women of quality in all areas of my life. Many times I am tempted to take short cuts.

QUALITY MEANS DOING IT RIGHT WHEN NO ONE IS LOOKING-HENRY FORD

Have you had a similar experience? I would love to hear about it!!

Easy Summer Recipe!

2010-07-20T16:46:00.000-07:00

With 2 hungry, college boys and a "starving" high-schooler eating at our dinner table, I have to come up with some filling, fast meals. Following is one of our favorite summer side dishes!

Slice potatoes with skins on ( I usually use red). Lay on large piece of foil. Dot with butter and sprinkle with salt (I use sea salt).

I add sliced mushrooms or onions also.

Lay another piece of foil on top and seal edges.

Grill 15 minutes on each side,flipping once. Do not open as the steam helps cook the potatoes! These are wonderful warmed over in the oven.

We sometimes sprinkle with cheese after grilling:) Yum!

ENJOY!

Tough week?

2010-07-16T10:20:00.000-07:00

Ok. It is Friday. That can be a good thing, especially if you have had a tough week. Many weeks can be classified as "bad Mommy week" or "nagging wife week"! Not just "rough DAY", but the whole week was one rough road after another. One continuous bumpy ride!
Hold on girlfriend, the week is coming to a close. Make yourself a glass of iced tea, sit down, and put your feet up.

Yes, you have time, for this exercise, it will just take a minute. As you are sitting there, I want you to think about all the things that set you "off" this week. If it is a relationship issue, can you calm down and discuss it with the offending party (child or hubby) over the weekend? Does the issue matter? Really matter? If so, pray about a time to communicate about it.

Many times, for me, as I ponder the "potholes" of my rough, bumpy week, I find it was small situations (puddles) that grew into bigger situations (potholes).

Can you relate??

Building Confidence in your child.

2010-07-12T06:19:00.000-07:00

This scenario took place about 10 years ago. I wanted to share it with you today, as an example of building confidence in your child.

As the line inched forward, Casey leaned into me. "Mommy, will you please order for me??" he begged. "No, son, you need to do this yourself.I will be right next to you", I comforted.
Although progressing, with weekly speech therapy, he still struggled with fluency. Talking with strangers only magnified the situation as he battled to verbalize his requests.
"May I help who is next?" came a friendly voice from across the counter. "Y-Y-Y-Yes, I would like a hamburger please?", Casey replied. After receiving his order and arriving at our table, Casey was grinning form ear to ear. "Mommy, did you hear me? I only stuttered once!"
The visits to McDonald's became more frequent, and the orders more complex, as he continued to build confidence in his ability to communicate with others.

It is hard, as moms, to "push" our children out of their comfort zones. We want to "protect" them from life's tough situations. Many, many times, I am tempted to "step in" and spare them the pain and risk involved.

Building our child's self-confidence, takes a conscious effort on OUR part as moms. Introducing our child to new and sometimes difficult situations helps them grow, flourish and have a "I can do it" attitude.

So do not throw away your confidence, it will be richly rewarded. Hebrews 10:35

Today, I am 46!

2010-06-30T05:48:00.000-07:00

Today is my birthday!

It may cross the etiquette line to tell people it is your birthday, but I am so thankful God has blessed my with another year. I am so OK with birthdays and growing older.

How can I be excited about aging?

It is just a theory, and only a theory, but I have come very close to losing those I love, on several occasions. And in the case of my dad, mother-in-law and brother-in-law, friend and mentor Kathy Inoue, I have witnessed God's hand in ushering them into eternity at relatively young ages.

I want to grow old gracefully. Thanking God for the years on earth that he has in trusted to me.

Yes, there are days when I look in the mirror and sigh, at the sign, of another line beginning to form on my face. Or the fact, the every part of my body, seems 2 inches lower than it did 20 years ago:)

But today, I am embracing 46, and I am blessed!

Psalm 90:12 Teach us to number our days aright that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

What I Love about Mondays

2010-06-28T07:06:00.000-07:00

Mondays, are a day I have come to love. REALLY. I used to dread Monday.

Mondays, are the day I get up and get going. Getting the wash started from the piles that accumulated from the weekend. I then walk around the house and "tidy up". Picking up the junk that seems to multiple, as we relax on Sundays. Newspapers, paper plates and shoes all find the trash can or the closet.

Once I feel like I have made the house somewhat presentable, I then settle in for some serious time of reading and prayer. I do a few extra devotions then the "normal" day, and then spend "extra time" talking to God about some stuff on my heart.I often catch up on a inspirational DVD or watch several of "life today" Wednesdays with Beth, on my computer. It is a unhurried, not on a time-frame, communion with the Lord. And I savor it. I fiercely guard it. Not appointments, no errands.

I do get interrupted. Changing over the laundry or answering a question from one of the kiddos. But then I get right back at it.

It is what I love about Mondays!

Choices

2010-06-22T06:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, was errand day. I had allot on my "to do" list as I headed to town. The stops included a salon, where I would receive a much anticipated pedicure.

As I was working my way through the items on my checklist, a thought came to me, "Call your college boys, who are working in town, and treat them to lunch".

I mulled this over in my mind. If I met the boys for lunch, I would spend the money (on lunch), I had set aside for a pedicure. Boys can eat enormous amounts of food to keep them fueled.

Lunch.pedicure.lunch.pedicure......my mind volleyed back and forth, till I thought I was going to be dizzy, if I did not make a decision.

I called the boys, we met for lunch.

There, in the corner booth at Taco Bell, we enjoyed rich conversation and sharing. They were in the "mood" to talk. And it was priceless.

So, today, I am going to attempt to paint my own toenails. A procedure that I have been sadly, less than successful at, in the past. They just look "home-done" when I apply the polish.

I will smile, every time I look down, over the next few weeks, and see my toes.

Lunch with my sons was the right choice:)

Cultivating a heart for missions in your child

2010-06-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

Our 3rd son, Casey,age 20, arrived home yesterday, from a 3 week mission trip to Ecuador.
He had lots of stories to share of his experience.
Nine years ago, when Casey was 11, we took him and his brothers on their first missions trip. Our mission trip was to the country of Honduras, to help with a school. In this rural setting, many of the students, had never experienced having "gringo" children in close proximity, let alone, engaged with them in fun and games. They were especially fascinated by our youngest son, Brock's (then age 6) glasses. They could not fathom, a young boy, actually having "lenses".
I remember asking the missionary, if it would have been better use of our resources to "send" him the money to use for food and equipment vs. the cost of bringing our entire family. His answer surprised me. He was firm in his belief that bringing our children and exposing them to mission work, not only blessed the children at the school, but would have a life long effect on our boys. He was right. The next year, our oldest, Seth returned to the school for 3 weeks to help. In the years that followed, the boys took advantage of other mission opportunities with church youth groups.
It is never to young to expose your children to mission work. We started years before this Honduras trip, by sponsoring a child from a mission school in India. Her picture hung on our refrigerator, as a reminder to pray for her.
Planting a seed, at a young age, coupled with the experience, anticipation and excitement of their first trip, has fueled a passion for missions. I pray this zeal will continue, as the boys have opportunities to share the love of Christ, where ever the Lord leads them.

Suriving Piranha Week!

2010-06-04T07:03:00.001-07:00

I refer to the first full week of summer as Piranha week!

Just one week ago, the kids were sick of the school routine and ready to have a summer break. They were tired of teachers, school lunches, getting up early and home work.

And now, one week into freedom, they are bored, hungry, irritable and pestering anything and everything that moves. Even the family dog has run for cover.

Each year, as piranha week edged closer, I promised myself, "This year, we will have a great first week!"However, this statement rang hollow, as I found myself defeated and frustrated by day 5.

Following are a few tips that I found worked for me as I forged ahead, and through trial and error, survived piranha week, and set the groundwork for a great memory filled summer.

#1 Have a family meeting, and set clear expectations of what the summer routine will be. Do not assume that the children know what these are. If they can read, post the list on the refrigerator.

#2 Children crave structure, whether they know it or not, so do have a schedule for the week. It should be "looser" than the school year routine, but have one.

#3 Look at your children bents. Do they like to sleep in? Are they early risers? We had a rule that everyone was up by 9:00 am. This gave us a goal, so that those early birds, were not "waiting" for the sleepyheads to get up, get there morning chores done, and then finally move along to something fun in the day.

#4 Have chores for each child, everyday. Even the tiniest tot can find all the dirty towels in the house and put them in front of the washer. They can take a bag and "find" all the trash in the van. They can put all the toys in the toy box and feed the dog.

Older kids can sweep out the car and sweep the house. They can wash the car. Make beds, Take everything out of the fridge, wipe it out and put things back. Maybe they are in charge of breakfast or lunch each day. They can pull weeds around the house, gather and sort laundry, fold laundry, do the dishes, wipe down kitchen and bathroom cabinets, gather library books, and the list can go on and on....
Some of these chores like beds and dishes can be daily, while others can be assigned a specific day of the week.

#5 I found that having a rule that all chores be done by lunch was a great strategy. This gives incentive to get the job done. We could then have afternoon plans and come home to a clean tidy house.

#6 I tried to have something scheduled to do 2 or 3 days a week in the afternoon. Monday may be library day, Wednesday we went to the local pool, Friday we spend time at the park, ect. I kept it simple and just for a few hours.

#7 Show your kids "downtime" is ok. It is fine to have everyone take "personal" time each day after lunch and go to our rooms and read or listen to books on tape. This gives you, mom, a much needed break! This is very important if you have little ones who still need naps and older children who are looking for entertainment. If you find the naps are interfering with afternoon activities, try flipping you schedule and doing chores in the afternoon while the younger children are sleeping and enjoying the fun stuff while the children are fresh and rested.

#8 Have a bedtime routine, even in the summer. You need a break mom, and you and your husband need time together.

#8 Have incentives! Treat you children to ice cream during the week, go to the park or zoo this summer. Praise them and thank them for cooperating around the house and helping get things done so you have time to enjoy the activities summer brings.

#9 You will still have "piranha days" this summer. Days where you hide in your walk in closet and eat M&M's to console and convince yourself that you will survive the summer. Hopefully they will be few and far between:)

My baby is 16!

2010-06-01T05:23:00.000-07:00

Brock turned 16 on Sunday. It is hard to believe that 16 years ago, after a pregnancy that seemed it would last until eternity, they placed this 9lb 15oz. "bundle of baby" in my arms.

He has been a low maintenance child from the very beginning. Perhaps, the fact, that he had 3 older brothers, who adored and "looked out" for him, made it seem this way.

He is quiet by nature, and does not need a boatload of friends around, to keep him company. In his infinite wisdom, the Lord knew that if he was going to bless me with another boy, Brock's "easy-going" personality was going to be needed. A high maintenance, demanding boy would have surely put me in a padded cell!

Happy Birthday Brock, you have a special place in my heart.

*Brock is on the far left. Then his brothers Levi, Casey and Seth.

It is hard to let go.

2010-05-25T06:48:00.000-07:00

Our family, traveled to Michigan this past weekend, for my nieces wedding. It was a miracle. Truly it was. To get all 7 of us at one event. Together.

It would be easier for me to run a marathon:) And those who know me, and have been exposed to my lack of athletic talent, realized the significance of this.

It is not that we do not enjoy being together as a family. We love it. It is just that life happens. Schedules, jobs, girlfriends, classes and sport practice all compete for a slot in the 24 hours a day that we are given.

As we prepared to go to the wedding this weekend, a conversation took place, that made me come face to face with a hard truth......

I am struggling, as a mom, to let my boys go.

Let them go, to make their choices, of what is a priority to them.
Let them go, and trust that they will make the right choice.
Let them go, and know, that they will have to live with the consequences of the decisions they make.
Let them go, and trust that I, as a parent, have shown them the way.

It is HARD. This letting go thing. But it is time.

It is time to shift gears, on my motherhood bicycle.

Oh, I am still riding the motherhood bike, I always will. Just at a lower gear.

The Boys are Back!

2010-05-18T10:52:00.000-07:00

It has been crazy around our house. Why? The boys are back!

The college semester, has come to an end, which means, as the college doors close, mine open:)

My laundry is multiplying like rabbits, and the grocery bill just doubled.

The amount of keys,wallets,hats,books,laptops and cars have grown considerably, and the basement storage is now full of dorm furniture and bedding.

What does a mother do, when the boys come home? Enjoy it!

When your Adult children move back home, whether it is temporary landing, or a longer stint, it is time to have a "meeting".

Take a few moments, and sit down together as a family, and discuss your expectations of each other, during their time at home. House rules need to be established and agreed upon.

Open communication, from the very beginning of their stay, leads to an enjoyable, memory filled summer!

Thought for Friday.

2010-05-14T19:35:00.000-07:00

You can make the few moments that you interact with a store clerk and a bank teller a miserable experience, or you can get them to smile and make their day. The choice is yours.

John C. Maxwell

Holland part 5

2010-05-10T09:34:00.000-07:00

As I continue to chronicle my fantastic trip to Holland, I will wrap it up with this post. I left off with my "gift" of the Corrie ten Boom Museum. Did I tell you, my new friend, Yvonne, whom I met at the conference, arranged a private tour of the home? Yvonne, met us in her home town of Haarlem, to spend the day with us and arrived early, and we arrived late:)

In Holland, bike paths are for bikes, and roads are for bikes and vehicles. Well, our driver, and friend, Stacy, from Switzerland, used to live in Haarlem, and pulled onto a side street to find parking. Since she moved, last fall, this street is now JUST for bikes. The "looks" we got from those on 2 wheels, as we headed down this narrow alley sould have should have given us a clue, but no, we just keep going....we finally got a hint, when a woman on a bike, rounded the corner, and just about ended up on our windshield. So, there we are, 4 women, laughing hysterically, at our predicament, trying to determined HOW we are going to turn around in this small alley. And Stacy, driving a "borrowed" van, trying to maneuver around obstacles, trying to not damage the van, was a little like walking a elephant, through a china shop without causing damage:)

After, belly laughs, and myself out of the vehicle guiding her, and Connie, video taping EVERYTHING, we finally got turned around. 4 women, a van, a narrow bike path.....FUN! After the Ten Boom tour, we had a delicious dutch lunch at a cafe.I have added a picture of us and my goat cheese sandwich:) Then Connie and Brenda, stayed to shop and ride the train back to The Hague, and I rode back with Stacy so that I could review for my "talk" for MOPS the next day. Stacy and I had such rich conversation on the way back, we eased into conversation, like long time friends. And I cherished the time together.

There was no shortage of sweet one on one conversation that sunny Wednesday. Anneke and I, took Stacy to the train station that afternoon, and then ran some errands. Anneke, is like the older sister I never had, I felt I could ask her anything, and loved to hear her opinion on subjects. I respect her so much, and she taught me what true hospitality looks like! She fixed us a delicious dutch dinner with a Indonesian flare to it. She is a fabulous cook!

When I thought I couldn't be WOWED or blessed beyond what I already was, Beat and Anneke took us out on the Chanel to see their houseboat that evening. What a treat! I have included pictures of the houseboats and windmills on the canals.

Thursday, another sunny day. Did I tell you that they said it is cool and rains all the time! Well, it was warm and SUNNY everyday we were there. When we left on Friday, it started to rain and rained on and off for 5 days....I think they need me back to bring the sunshine:)

I spoke at MOPS Thursday morning. What a wonderful experience to share with there moms, of many different nationalities. Motherhood is rewarding and challenging no matter where we live. They certainly impressed me how they shared tips and ideas with each other. Almost all of them are away from there families, so they really need each others support. I met moms from Poland, Germany, Switzerland, U.S.A., Korea and Holland and Canada, just to name a few. Warm, loving, caring moms who love there children!

Thursday afternoon, Anneke, once again, took time from her busy schedule to take us to Keukenhof. It is open only 6 weeks out of the year. It is BEAUTIFUL! Acres and Acres of flowers! I have added pictures, because with words, it is indescribable!

But far more beautiful than the flowers, was when Anneke, told us her salvation story. It was not a preacher, not an eloquent speaker, who shared the gospel story with her, but a mom just like me. Her story touched my heart deeply.

We wrapped up our trip Thursday evening with dinner at Tim's mother and step father's house. She made us a delicious dutch dinner. And we enjoyed sweet fellowship with Betsy, Tim and their family.

All week, as I was in Holland, the Lord kept whispering these words to me....."My Child, you are feeling my Pleasure!"

And yes, in a mighty way, "I FELT GOD'S PLEASURE!"

Holland part 4

2010-05-08T14:18:00.000-07:00

I shared some pictures of the conference in the blog titled Holland, the first blog in this series. In this previous blog, I introduced the "team", in this beautiful country. This amazing, talented, group of women, spent countless hours of planning, preparation, promotion and prayer in anticipation of this evening. From the beautiful decorations to the delicious desserts, every detail was covered. As women arrived, the electricity in the room started to build, you could feel the excitement and anticipation. Women, representing various home countries from all over the world came together for the first women's conference, of it's kind, in this region.

The committee and the speakers, came prepared and prayed up. And God, Showed up!

Whenever or wherever I speak, my favorite thing to do, is visit with the women before and after an event. Every woman, has a story to tell. And I feel so privileged, when they choose to share, their journey, and a taste of their lives, with me. And this conference was no exception. I met women with tales of joy and sorrow, pain and pleasure. And it was sweet conversation.

I laid in bed that night, in awe, once again, at what the Lord had done!

On Wednesday, we had the privilege of spending the day with Stacy from Switzerland, whom I mentioned earlier, and her dear friend, and now my dear friend, Yvonne, from Haarlem. We had arranged for Yvonne to meet us in Haarlem, at the Museum Home of Corrie ten Boom.

I have to share, how special this was to me. I never dreamed I would get to go to Haarlem, and tour her home. Her writings have inspired me over the years. From her book "The Hiding Place" as well as "Tramp for the Lord". Corrie and her family risked their lives, during World War 2, as they hid many of the Jewish people, whom the Nazi's sought to persecute and destroy.Hundreds of Jews escaped the Nazi dealth camps, because of the faithfulnes of the Ten Boom family.

Pictured here is the "fake" wall that the jews would hid behind during raids. I am standing inside the wall, right were they would have been. I also included a picture of the linen closet built into the wall. Those staying the in Ten Boom home would crawl through the opening in the bottom of the closet, slide a door shut and "hid" behind the wall. I have also included a few pictures of Haarlem. This trip to her home was such a "gift" to me.

More to come....:).

Holland part 3

2010-05-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

Monday, during my recent stay in Holland was pure fun. We enjoyed the day with our host, and new friend, Anneka. She took us to the city of Delft. Beautiful. She then treated us to lunch at a outside cafe. During lunch, we shared "God stories", of our pasts. Places in our hearts, were cracked open, to each other, and experiences shared. It was a sweet time of fellowship.

Anneka, then suggested, we head to downtown, "The Hague", where we saw the International Peace Palace, which houses the International Court of Justice. We also walked through the Parliament grounds. Stunning Architecture and centuries old buildings, greeted us at every turn.

In the evening, we met our dear friend, Stacy, from Switzerland. Stacy had previously lived in Holland, and was instrumental in bringing this conference to the Netherlands! She flew in from Switzerland, to speak at the conference, and spend time with friends old and new! She is a delight to be around. Energetic and loads of fun. And what great food and conversation we had, as we were treated to a leisurely, dutch dinner at a local restaurant.

Tuesday dawned, another sunny day,and it was time to get to work and more ministry:) Connie, my companion from the states, gave a wonderful "talk" on prayer, at a bible study. Then Connie and I, secluded ourselves at our host home, and worked diligently on our talks we had prepared before our trip. I spent all of the afternoon, making cultural "tweaks" to my presentation. My hearts desire was that it would be culturally relevant to my audience. It was such a blessing, to be in Holland, several days before our event, to truly get a "taste" for our international audience.

Although, this was my 3rd day in Holland, and I had not spoken from a platform yet, God was blessing me, with amazing opportunities to share with women, on a ongoing basis.I had also, been ministered too, and blessed by so many! REAL ministry, begins OFF the platform. That is were it is at!

Stay tuned for more.....

Holland part 2

2010-05-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

As promised, I will continue to share my story, of a amazing, "beauty from ashes" story. The "ash cloud" changed our original itinerary, but God had a plan, beyond what we could have thought or imagined.

Sunday, after attending church, and receiving a warm welcome and introductions, Betsy, team leader for the conference,wife and mother of 4, took her daughter and the 3 or us, on a bike ride to the North Sea! Really, the North Sea. Just like that!

On the way,we stopped by another member of the teams house. Lisa, is a mom of boys, just like me. This adorable blond, from Australia, taught me a lesson of magnitude, that sunny, Sunday, afternoon. After we arrived, she asked us to come in, for tea and scones. She explained, that the dutch culture, like many European cultures, stop and have tea or coffee around 1 and 4 each day. Did you catch that? They STOP!

I have posted some pictures of her lovely tea set, along with the 6 of us enjoying rich conversation. We talked about being a wife and mom. We shared tips and good book suggestions.The moments together were priceless and a lesson well learned from Lisa. I was so taken by her example, I bought a tea set like hers, before I left Holland!

Sunday evening, we enjoyed a delicious meal at the home of Betsy, her husband, and children (pictured). Tim, her husband, is a pastor. They moved from the states, 2 years ago, to serve in a church in The Hague. We were joined by a couple from South Africa, whose wife, Margaretha, is on the team that coordinated the conference. We had a wonderful time of sharing and fellowship.

Christian Love and fellowship, transcends cultures and geographical lines, and I relished the joy, of getting to know, my brothers and sisters-in-Christ, residing in Holland.

HOME FROM HOLLAND!

2010-05-03T08:19:00.000-07:00

I am home. Words seem inadequate to describe my trip, to Holland. I will try, over the next several days, to share my story. A trip of a lifetime.

As many of you know, my speaking tour was to begin in Hungary, with stops in Austria and then finally Holland. Then the famous ash cloud, showed up, and the first stops canceled. It was looking like the event in "The Hague", Holland, would be canceled also. What rejoicing there was when we were able to secure airline tickets and continue with our plans!!

The team from the U.S.A. consisted of Brenda and Connie, who work for "Hearts at Home", and myself.

We were hosted at a lovely home, in "The Hague", owned by Beat and Anneke, whom opened there home and hearts to us. They were amazing. They made us feel right at home and "gave of their best". This is a picture of our host couple and a picture of their home. A beautiful dutch home. I also included a picture from my 3rd floor, bedroom window.

The Team, in Holland, was a wonderful representation of a very international city. The people, and the countries they represented were; Lisa from Australia, Betsy and Karen from the U.S., Sheyla from Panama, Stacey from Switzerland, and Margaretha from South Africa. They were giving,gracious,warm,kind,loving, talented, amazing women.

Over 170 women, many of whom were foreign nationals living in Holland, came to the conference. It was a wonderful event and I can explain it in 4 words, "I felt God's Pleasure."

I will be sharing more as the days go by....so stay tuned. And finally, the most important thing, THANK YOU, to all who committed to pray for me. Only God could have orchestrated such an event. I felt the prayers, daily!

Amsterdam, here we come!

2010-04-21T17:32:00.000-07:00

Things can change very quickly!

Our team is going to Amsterdam on Friday, Lord Willing.

As many of you are aware, the ash cloud canceled our flight and subsequently, our events in Hungary and Austria. However, God has opened doors, for us to make arrangements, to head to Amsterdam, for what would have been the last stop of our speaking tour!

I am ecstatic.

Please pray for us, as we cautiously move forward with our plans. Also, we ask for continued prayers during our visit and our safe,timely, return home to our families.

Our travel dates are April 23-30th.

What to do with $200.00 worth of frozen food from Sam's Club

2010-04-21T06:28:00.000-07:00

Hi,Yes, still here in the states. The European speaking tour is cancelled.

I unpacked yesterday. After, stumbling over the suitcase at the end of my bed for 3 days, my sore toes rejoiced.

Now, in preparation for being away for 11 days, I had loaded up on frozen food. Entries, appetizers, ice cream and various, normally forbidden, boxes filled my deep-freeze in the basement. The boys were ecstatic.

Upon hearing that I was not going on said trip, Brock asked, "We still get to eat all the food in the basement, Right?"

So much for sentiment. What they really wanted was a break from "home-cooking" and a taste of pizza rolls, hot pockets, Oreo cookie ice cream and other delicacies only teenagers and college students can enjoy for a prolonged period of time.

The past 2 nights, I have obliged to their wishes, turned on the oven, opened a box, and let the magic begin.

We will all be bloated little piggies,s from all the salt we are consuming, and will most likely gain a few pounds this week, but the boys are in "frozen food haven". Hopefully, after this "fix" they will be satisfied with "my" home cooking again.

It's OK to be disappointed.

2010-04-18T15:02:00.000-07:00

The sinking' ash cloud. It has me a wee bit frustrated and disappointed.

Our flight today, to Budapest, was cancelled.

I have not unpacked. The team is still hopeful and prayerful, that we can possibly go in a few days...maybe.

So, we wait. On a God, who in a single breath,can move the wind patterns over Europe. If it is HIS will.

Am I disappointed? Yes. Am I devastated and all depressed? No.

Besides, Curt and my son Brock took me out for ice cream! A Carmel Cashew Sundae....and I enjoyed every bite!

I am trying to be more intentional about telling my boys about women and how we think. As I was eating my treat, I asked Brock (he is 16) what women might do when they are disappointed? He said, "Eat???" Yup, it may be unhealthy and I would not make it a habit, but it was just what I needed.

I will keep you all up-to-date.

Europe, here I come!

2010-04-16T05:01:00.000-07:00

This is it! My final post until I return from Europe on April 29th.

I am already anticipating lots of "God Stories" to share when I return.

I will be speaking in Budapest, Hungary; Vienna, Austria;Villach, Austria and The Hague, Amsterdam.

Several of you have offered to pray for me while I am gone. I am privileged that you are willing to hold me up before the Father, in prayer. I truly need it and find strength and comfort knowing that you are committed to pray.

Please pray for:

Safety
health
restorative rest
protection
clear mind
soft heart
servant spirit
always aware of ministry opportunities.
patience
calm
FAVOR with translator and all whom I come in contact with.
Health, protection and safety for my FAMILY at home.
GOD would be glorified and shine through everything I do.
Quiet time with the Lord each day.
And anything else the Lord brings to your mind to pray for!

Thank you so much my dear friends.

Until, April 29th,May you sense God's hand in your life, and Trust His Heart!

Love, Sue

Make a list!

2010-04-13T06:39:00.000-07:00

OK. I am a little ADHD. No, some days, allot! The more I have on my plate, the more scattered I become.

My brain just works that way.

I have to make lists. And stick to them like warts on a frog.

This Tuesday, I have much to do. So, hence, a very long list. It keeps me focused on the task at hand.

I can tackle jobs and have great follow through, with minimal distractions, when I am accountable to even this slip of paper with writing on it.

Since extended blogging is NOT on the list, I have to say "goodbye".

But before I do, check out the fabulous site on http://www.5minutesformom.com Wonderful prizes and lots of fun!!

Tell your husband what it is you want.

2010-04-12T06:37:00.000-07:00

After 25 years of marriage, you would think I would "get it".

Have it figured out.

Know the drill.

Nope, I am still learning. sigh.

Last night, I returned home after working two, 12-hour shifts at the hospital. (I work in Labor and Delivery, 4 days a month)

I was exhausted, my back ached, my legs felt like they were on fire.

I took a bath. What I wanted, was a massage.

So, I put the massage lotion on the counter. Then a little thought came into my head. "Sue, it said, you know better. Curt is NOT going to "see" the massage lotion and get the hint. He is not going to come into the room and say to himself, 'Oh, Sue, put the lotion out, she must be in need of a massage....I will go ask her if she would like one!'"

NOPE. That is not going to happen. In a perfect world, maybe. But not in my world.

I knew that if I pursued my plan (put said lotion on the counter, and hoped for follow through, by prince charming) I was in for a big disappointment, I would probably take on a "poor me" he just doesn't care attitude. No, not probably, I would. I am all mature like that.

Maybe, I HAVE learned a few things about men and marriage over the years, so, I just asked him. "Curt, would you give me a massage?". Just like that. I just blurted it out.

He is a man who says to me, "Sue, just give me the bottom line. I do not need to know all the whys, hows, whens or every detail or justification. Just tell me what you want!"

I did! And I got a fantastic massage!

I am needing some serious prayer power over here!!

2010-04-07T08:02:00.000-07:00

Life is just hard sometimes. Really hard. I am distracted and hanging by a thread of being "overwhelmed".

Strange words, coming from a gal who is usually all "zippity do-da" about life. Here is a snapshot of the past 10 days.

Hubby in Coronary ICU, because of his heart. Home now. (If you were not aware, Curt, had a heart attack and 5 by-passes in 2007)

Curt's step-dad, Rod Moser, went to be with his LORD last Sunday. We will deeply miss him!! Traveled to IOWA for visitation and funeral. Wonderful tribute to a Godly man.

Computer crashed last week. Total wipe out. Took a 2 hour road trip yesterday to get new one from our "computer guy" Did not really WANT to spend money for said new computer. Spent 6 hours yesterday and 3 today, setting up and trying to transfer information from old one.

Email issues for the past week!

My car is dead this morning!

YOU GET THE PICTURE....UGG!

I ask myself, "Why is all of this happening?"

It may be, because in 10 days, I leave for a European speaking tour. The women there need encouragement. And Satan would love to send a worn-out, stressed-out, overwhelmed gal to minister to them. Especially one who has been majorly distracted by the past events in her life, that she cannot focus and prepare!!!

Or, maybe, it is because I am a mother and wife. And Satan knows that if he can defeat me, help me fall into a pit of strangling circumstances, he will have a devastating effect on my family and myself!

So, what is a girl to do?

First, I have fallen to my knees countless times asking the LORD to sustain me. I have read HIS word for strenth and encouragement.

Next, I have asked for prayers of family and friends.

And thirdly, I have sought council from others (thank you MEGAN) on what I can eliminate in my schedule and commitments to help me through this jungle of events in my life.

Would you pray for me, dear friend?

Oh, by the way, I will be in Europe, April 18th-29th, Lord willing.

Daily Devotions vs. Guilt

2010-03-30T12:19:00.000-07:00

At a recent speaking event, a young vivacious women, approached me. In a hushed tone, she shared, the same quilt ridden dilemma, that I have heard countless times. "I rarely read my bible." And she went on to explain, that when she does take time to read it, she forgets what she read or has a hard time applying the teaching to everyday life.

Boy, can I relate. Been there. Many times.

There have been situations where, when it is time to leave for church, I would find my bible were I set it down, LAST SUNDAY. Oh, the guilt.

I used to say, "When my children get older, I will have time." Well, they got older....and...still the same, sad, song!

I shared with her, through my own mistakes, what works for me.

One day, I went to the local Christian bookstore, plopped right down in the aisle between the devotional bookcase section, and started leafing through the pages of "daily devotionals".

I started with well known authors, whom I had developed a trust, for speaking the truth.

I searched until I found one that suited me.

It had a short daily reading assignment, in the Bible, along with a few paragraphs, by the author, on making the scripture relevant.

The DAILY reading assignment was important, that helped keep me accountable each day of the week.

It was relevant and meaningful. And I started to look forward to reading everyday. Then I would even expand my reading further as I looked up "bonus" scriptures that went with the text.

I also made a promise to myself, that I would not read the newspaper, or any other publication, until I read God's word.

Do I miss days? Yes, I have. But, it is a rare occurrence now that I have my "accountability partner", my daily devotional.

My Shelter-It works for me!

2010-03-24T16:42:00.000-07:00

Several weeks ago I talked about having a "shelter", a hiding place.

Often, a "little" shelter will suffice. A hot bath, back rub, getting my nails done, curling up with a good book, coffee with a friend...you get the idea.

But a few weeks ago, I told my man, Curt, that I felt a "need" for some serious hiding to happen!

So, Sunday afternoon, we were off to northern Missouri, to a beautiful cabin tucked away among hundreds of peaceful acres. A gift of respite, through the gracious,generous hands, of our brother and sister-in-law who let us stay there.

48 glorious hours. No Internet, no cell phone, no TV. NO PROBLEM!!

The GIFT of a NAP!

2010-03-16T12:56:00.001-07:00

A Nap. Sometimes, I just NEED one.

Not always, WANT one. There is just to much to do! But sometimes, somebody, just needs to send me to my room for a NAP.

Last week, my 22 year old son, Levi, was home with me. I was dragging and cranky. Really out-of-sorts. I have no idea why. I just WAS.

About 1:00, he took one look at me, and said, "Mom, you need a nap". Just like that. No disrespect in his voice or authoritative tone.

I came up with all kind of excuses for not taking a "time out" nap. Levi listened, looked at me again, and repeated himself. "Mom, you really need a nap".

So, I did nap. Two whole hours of blissful sleep.

How long can one lay prone, in slumber, and still call it a nap?

I felt so much better when I awoke. Ready to forge ahead with a better attitude.

I even thanked Levi for suggesting it.

The Nap, it is a wonderful gift!

Tennis shoes, teens and time

2010-03-09T07:29:00.000-08:00

The pile of shoes, in the bottom pictue, collects on my sun room floor every Wednesday evening.

These shoes belong to teens. Teens who struggle, wonder, question, debate and search for firm ground, to stand upon, in their beliefs.

The slippers in the top picture, wait in the living room, on Wednesday evening, for their owners. Parents who have struggled, wondered, questioned, and searched for firm ground, to stand upon, in their beliefs, and have FOUND IT!

Many Wednesday evenings, as parents, we long for our slippers. To wind down and start to bid "farewell" to the day. It takes all the energy we can summon to "welcome" 20, high-energy adolescents into our home.

I am just being honest. I do not always see it as the privilege I should. And it IS a honor. That these young people, with all the choices of activities offered to them, CHOOSE to be here. At my house, learning on WHOM they can stand upon.

Sweet Tea and Slaughters, KY

2010-03-09T06:56:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, I was privileged to spend time with a group of wonderful women at Mt. Gilead Church, in Slaughters, KY.

These dear sisters can cook and bake like non-other! And the sweet tea, AMAZING!

The warm smiles, the welcoming words and the "dog eared" bibles they carried, instantly told me that I was in the midst of some mighty FAITHFUL women of GOD.

Each of the attendees, as they introduced themselves, spoke of God's faithfulness to them, through trials and joys of life. I sat in awe, of the power ,of the living God we serve.

So, my new, dear friends, in Slaughters, I thank you, for allowing me the priviledge, to be with you. You ministered to my heart in a mighty way!

Things DO change!

2010-03-02T08:20:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we drove to Missouri for our niece's wedding. The wedding was lovely and the bride beautiful.

Because of previous commitments, our son, Levi, 22,was the only one of our children to accompany my husband and I.

As we traveled along interstate 72, the dialogue between the 3 of us was sweet and rich. We discussed diverse topics from the mundane to complex. It was a relaxing and enjoyable ride.

I just laughed out loud, when I reminisced back, to a event that took place 6 years earlier. It involved a "road trip" to the same destination, for a different niece's wedding.

I wrote about it. And following is the adventure.

We had attended a family wedding in another state and were rolling along a remote highway, in our suburban, headed for home. Our 4 sons had finished telling stories about their day and had fallen asleep. My husband and I were seated in the front. The oldest and third child were in the captain chairs while the youngest and second born sat in the back.
I was enjoying the peace in the vehicle when I heard a faint voice say, “Water.” I recognized the voice as that of my 9 year-old youngest son. “We do not have anything to drink, son,” I told him. He said again, only this time more strained and desperate, “Water.” One of his brothers, frustrated for having been woken replied, “We don’t have any!”
With that it was as if Mount St. Helen itself had erupted. My 9 year-old heaved a partially digested wedding banquet all over the back of my oldest son and finished off in my second born’s brand new shoes, which he had slipped off for the ride home.
What happened next would have been a great study for a psychology class. Everyone in the vehicle responded in a way that was very characteristic of their personality. Our neat, tidy first born freaked out because he had vomit up his back. The third son, who hates conflict, was trying to get out of the suburban before it had even stopped. And “Mr. Style” with the brand-new shoes was yelling “My Shoes, My Shoes.” My husband did what many fathers would do. He pulled over while saying, “Why didn't you tell us you were going to be sick?” And I, the overprotective mother, made my way through the suburban yelling, “Everyone quit picking on him, he cannot help it.”
My first thought was how to clean up the mess. We were miles from the nearest exit, so I told my sons to take off their dress shirts. My analytical first born was still figuring out how all of this mess could come from such a little stomach, so I grabbed his shirt, pulled it off of him and smeared vomit up over his head in the process. He was not happy.
A short time later we were back on the road with 3 shirtless boys, 2 speechless parents and a 9 year-old that keep saying, “I will never look at barbecue weenie dogs at a reception the same again.” And neither will you!

So today, I am unwrapping the gift of change. They DO grow up, and it can be SWEET!

It's not my job!

2010-02-23T15:34:00.000-08:00

I did it again.

I took a job that was not given to me.

I know better.

I have learned this lesson before.

Many times.

I take on the role of being someone's Holy Spirit.

And things get complicated, messy and ugly.

They have a Holy Spirit.

I need to back off and let it do it's job.

Without my "help".

So, I am off to apologize.

Ask their forgiveness.

Again.

Because I was convicted by MY Holy Spirit, that I am getting in the way!

So today...I am unwraping the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Do you ever struggle with this?

ASK your man!

2010-02-19T08:54:00.001-08:00

Last spring, when first approached with the invitation to join a European speaking tour, I had a wonderful thought! Looking at my husband, I said, "Honey, when I am done with my tour, why don't you join me overseas and we will spend a few days together traveling".

He responded that this idea sounded "nice".

As the months flew by, I would make reference to the extended part of the trip and the fun we would have.

Then in early January, after putting in many hours of research about hotels, airfare and excursions I started having a "check" in my spirit about the plans we were making. Would it be too much to meet up with Curt and go to Rome for 5 days after a very busy 10 days of tour? Would the "extended" part of the trip take away from the first 10 days of ministry? Would I be worried or anxious about all the details and not be focused on the conferences that I was speaking at?......you get the idea....I just did not have a peace about it.

So, I talked to Curt that night. Explaining my reservations, I asked what HE was feeling about the whole thing.

"Well", I just cannot seem to get to excited about it. I was going because I knew you would enjoy seeing Rome. And I know I will too when I get there."

"Why didn't you say something earlier?" I questioned.

"You never asked!"

So, today, I am challenging myself to ASK!!!! It is important not to assume!

Making Peace with the "Need to know"

2010-02-16T07:52:00.000-08:00

Saturday night, Valentines eve, was sweet. My husband presented me with fragrant perfume, I gave him new slippers. Not original gifts, but after 25 years of marriage, we know each other. It was perfect.

Then Sunday came.

Valentine's Day.

I was scheduled to work at the hospital. I have the privilege to be part of the Labor and Delivery Unit.

And on that brisk, sunny, Sunday, we lost a baby.

Somehow, the grieving couple's pain becomes yours, and the "they" turns into "WE".

It is so hard. I weep as I type these words.

The baby, a beautiful boy, was perfect.

Our staff wept openly. Then I stepped into a storage room and cried out to God.

"I need to know....WHY?"

So, today, Tuesday, I am making Peace with the "Need to know".

And clinging to what I do know!!

Isaiah 54:10 Though the mountains move and the hills shake, My love with not be removed from you.

When YOU need a shelter, a hiding place.

2010-02-08T13:11:00.000-08:00

The past 2 blogs have focused on the need for our homes to be a shelter, a hiding place and refuge from the storm for our husbands and children.

But what about you? Where do your go when YOU need a hiding place?

I know I need to go to a hiding place when I feel I just can't "take it" anymore. I am burnt out and need a place of respite!

So what a some of my "hiding" places? It depends or how much "hiding" I am needing.

If just a little shelter in the shade of a little rock is needed, time alone with a book, a hot bath or a cup of great coffee while I wander through a book store is enough for refreshment.

But there are times, sweet sisters, when I need LOTS of shade behind a BIG ROCK. We are talking a boulder, serious shelter!!! You know what I am talking about!?!

Those are times when I truly need to get away!

Several years ago, I was at that place of needing some concentrated hiding! Not just a nap would suffice. So I made reservations at a nearby hotel on a Friday night. On my way to the hotel I swung by Panera'sand bought my favorite meal. Then upon checking in, I put my P.J.'s on, climbed into the king size bed, spread the food all around me, rented a chick flick movie and "hid" in my shelter, my hiding place, ALONE!

It was GLORIOUS!!!

The next day, I checked out a noon, and went home to my family, ready to be the wife and mother God has called me to be.

A shelter, a hiding place, a place of refuge, just for YOU.

Do you have a hiding place? I would love to hear about it!

Your Home, a shelter from the storm. Part 2

2010-02-04T06:00:00.000-08:00

On Monday, we talked about your home being a shelter and a hiding place. We looked at practical ways to provide this place of respite for your children. As promised, here is a list of ideas to create a hiding place, a place of shelter, for your man.

1. Welcome home kiss.....a shelter
2. Candles lit.......a shelter
3. Soft music....a shelter
4. No TV on, off the cell phone and computer when he gets home....a shelter
5. Attractive clothes and neat appearance.....a shelter
6. Love note taped to his steering wheel.....a shelter
7. Telling him you appreciate him and respect him.....a shelter
8. Telling him he still turns you on.......a shelter
9. Listening to his dreams......a shelter
10. Giving him time ALONE.....a shelter
11. A back rub.....a shelter
12. Forgiving him......a shelter
13. Not saying, "I told you so".....a shelter
14. Reminding him that he is a wonderful provider and father.....a shelter

Your man, everyday, is out in the world, providing for his family. Daily, facing temptations and a mountian of stress. Yet, he comes home to YOU and the children. Make your home his shelter, his hiding place, the place he wants to be!

Next, in part 3, we will talk about YOU mom and when you need a shelter!

Your home, a shelter from the storm.

2010-02-01T08:44:00.000-08:00

Each man will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm,like streams of water in the desert and the shadow of a great rock in a thirsty land. Isaiah 31:3

Shelter from the wind.

Refuge from the storm.

Water in a desert.

Shade from the sun.

A Rock or hiding place.

My desire is that these words reflect the "heart" of my Home.

How can my home be a shelter/refuge/hiding place to my children?

1. A HUG, even when they do not hug back....a shelter
2. Warm cookies...a shelter
3. Soft music....a shelter
4. Boundaries, rules,expectations, consequences.....a shelter
5. Time, if they want to talk......a shelter
6. Favorite meal.....a shelter
7. Planned Family time......a shelter
8. MOM off the computer, cell phone and not watching T.V. when the kids arrive home from school....a shelter
9. A soft answer.....a shelter
10. Telling them you love them everyday, even when you do not LIKE them......a shelter
11. Reading the bible and praying with them.....a shelter
12. Forgiving them.....a shelter
13. Telling them you are sorry.....a shelter

Your children need a hiding place, a place of refuge and respite from the storms of life.
It is a wonderful gift you can give your children every day!

Tomorrow we will explore ways to be a "shelter" for your husband!

Blessed to be a Blessing!

2010-01-26T13:05:00.000-08:00

I have been asking the Lord to aid me in being more aware of my surroundings. Requesting that the holy spirit "prick" my heart to a need when it presents itself and how to respond to it.

It is easy for me to see the need in Haiti. It is real, raw and flashed before our eyes on the printed page and television. However, there are situations in my own sphere of influence that I overlook on a daily basis.

Today, Praise God, was a day that I was intentionally aware and God used me to touch a life. And then, someone touched mine!

I was in the grocery store and by-passed a elderly woman putting items in her cart. There was something about her that drew my attention. I still am not sure what it was, other that the Holy Spirit.

As I was paying the cashier for my goods, she wheeled her cart in behind mine. As I collected my bags, I felt the Lord telling me to help pay for her groceries. So, I slipped the cashier some money, and instructed her to put it toward the woman's bill. And merrily went on my way. IT FELT SO GOOD!

Then the devil came visiting my head. "How do you KNOW she really needed that money?" he accused. "How will you pay for YOUR groceries next week?" he questioned.

"I don't know... I just want to be obedient.... It really is not my business, but God's," I kept reminding myself.

As I pulled into a nearby gas station, I filled up with fuel and went in to the store to pay. When I headed back out to my van I realized I had locked the keys in it AND left the motor running! UGG!!!

The clerks helped me locate a locksmith, who came and took down the serial number of my van and actually made me a new key at his shop! (I did not know you could do that!)

Upon returning, and unlocking my vehicle, he declined the money I offered.

I set out to be intentional, aware of the needs around me, and God, in the way that only HE can orchestrate, met MY need in a beautiful way.

Blessed to be a Blessing!

Respecting your MAN!

2010-01-22T06:51:00.000-08:00

To all the gals I met on Wednesday at M2M...I so enjoyed spending the morning with you!!

12 years ago, I was on the phone with my man. The conversation went something like this. "I really think now is the time to sell the stock", I insisted. "No, Honey,I really want to put in the sell price at 13, I sure it will hit 13 today!" Curt replied.

So, I called the broker and instructed him to sell when it reached $13.00 a share.

It didn't. It topped out at 12 and 7/8.

And then plummeted! To $7.00! And never regained momentum.

We sold at $7.50. And lost ALLOT of money!

I have MANY mistakes in my marriage.There have been times when I have been insensitive,cutting and hurtful in my communication with my man.

I am thankful that day, 12 years ago, I was none of those things. I never said anything other than "I love you." period.

He knew he screwed up. I did not need to say "I told you so!"

What he needed from me was Respect and Encouragement.

He needed me to let him know that this incident did not define him!

I am thankful, to this very day, that I did not say the words that so often fragment and destroy marriages..."I told you so!"

Looking at the past-Preserving or rebuilding?

2010-01-19T06:51:00.000-08:00

As I look at my past, I have a choice. To Rebuild or Preserve.

They will rebuid the ancient ruins and restore the Places long Devastated; Isaiah 61:4

The colisium in Rome has been preserved along with many other ancient artifacts. But that is not what God wants me to do with my past. He desires that I rebuild the ancient ruins of a life that has left me,at times,standing in the ruble of the mess I have made.

I am tempted to make a "shrine"of it. Preserveing it like pickles in a jar for years to come. Blaming others or berating myself with the constant reminder of failure.

God has something so much better for you and I. He desires that we pick up the pieces one by one and begin to rebuild and restore the desolote places of our lives. We cannot rebuild without the loving hand of the Father.

And He is with us each brick at a time. Healing,restoring and whispering our names as he rebuilds our lives and charactors.

The choice is ours.....Preserve or Rebuild.

A taste of Heaven on Earth!

2010-01-18T09:39:00.000-08:00

Meet my Grandma! How I love her! She is 90 years old.

Growing up, her home was one of my favorite places to visit. When I walked in the door, I was greeted with the familiar smell of antiques,fresh baked bread and the sweet aroma of my grandfathers lingering tobacco smoke.

On chilly days, a fire roared in the wood stove and a pot of potato soup simmered on the stove.

When I would spend the night, I would intentionally forget my pajama's so I could borrow hers. They smelled of lilacs. And climbing into her tall feather bed in the guestroom, I would snuggle down and cover with a quilt she had crafted herself.

My Grandmas home spelled LOVE. The sights, sounds, textures and smells welcomed me with open arms. Just a little taste of heaven on earth.

Remembering Haiti

2010-01-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

The Nation of Haiti and the precious people that abide there are in my thoughts and prayers.....over and over again the Lord brings the suffering that they are enduring to my mind.

The recovery will take months and even years. And yet, when the news media frenzy moves on, will I? Or will I stay committed to pray for the Haitian people?

Lord, break my heart with the things that break yours, help me to remember this country and it's people when life moves on!

What works for me!

2010-01-13T06:34:00.000-08:00

Today is grocery shopping day. UGG! It is one of my least favorite things to do. It ranks right up there with getting my teeth drilled!

You buy groceries....they are consumed......buy groceries.....they are consumed......

You get the idea.

I do not mind cooking said food, it is the TIME in the grocery store that drives me crazy.

Lame, I know.

So, what works for me to manage my minutes in "food land"

Since I shop the same stores each week, I know the layout of each one.
*I make my grocery list by aisle's. Yup, you got it. I start in the refrigerator section so....first on my list are the needs in that area. Sour cream, yogurt, milk, OJ......
*Next comes the canned food aisles....so soup,beans ect....
*I cross off each item as I put it in the cart. I also put a C with a circle next to the item name if I have a coupon and also include the quantity I need to purchase of that product.

This method is very convenient and keep the shopper from "backtracking" through the maze of aisle trying to find and item.

It works for me! For more tips visit Kristen at www.wearethatfamily.com

My Love and Hate relationship with my treadmill

2010-01-12T11:20:00.000-08:00

There it sits....in my basement. I hide it there so it doesn't taunt me. It sure doesn't beckon me!

There is not one bone in my body or thought in my mind that says "Go get on that!"

I just do not want to. I am not athletic. I cannot even run to my mailbox without falling so why would I get on this contraption and risk possible injury?

Because, I love how I feel when I am done "working out". I love the energy level and the sense of accomplishment. And of course, being toned is a great bonus.

But it is so hard to be disciplined!!! I know anything worth anything takes hard work and perseverance.

So, I heading down to the "dungeon" to do what I hate, to feel how I love....strange, huh?

Maybe when I am done I will come back up stairs and have a "cookie" on my "You are special today plate"...smile and sigh.

http://www.sueheimer.com/

The gift that keeps on giving!

2010-01-04T13:12:00.000-08:00

As I was driving through town today, I came upon this poor deflated snowman.
He is just a remnant of his former glory. Once a towering 7 ft tall, lit and all smiles, welcoming the holiday season. And now, here he lies in a heap. Perhaps he is waiting, until next fall, when he once again inflates in anticipation of a holiday to come.

As I was talking to co-workers and friends this past week, this was the sentiment of many. Disillusioned and disappointed with Christmas and their New Years Celebrations they too had felt they were left in a deflated mound.

Maybe they did not get what they asked for for Christmas, or sickness hampered the festivities. possibly relationships were messy or complicated and the holidays illuminated that fact.

I asked for one thing this Christmas. "More of JESUS". I prayed that I could see him in my "everyday" life. Aware of him working in and around me. And I got what I asked for and more!!! MORE of JESUS!

It was not a storybook holiday, in fact, I had the flu for a few days. But I was not deflated or defeated because I got the greatest present given to mankind and his name is Jesus. And HE is the gift that keeps on giving 365 days of the year. He will not disappoint.

My Man is 50 today! One of my life's greatest gifts!!

2009-12-29T05:59:00.000-08:00

My Man is 50 today! Yup, today is his Birthday! As of 5:11 am he is now a half century old.

It cannot be. He seems younger,acts younger,looks younger.....

But the calendar doesn't lie. Time marches on....

He is a man of integrity and strength. He is a solid guy. He has tremendous FAITH. These are the qualities that drew me to him 25 years ago.

I am still crazy about him.

Next to the gift of my Salvation....he is my 2nd greatest gift!

Happy Birthday Curt! I.L.Y.

My Love Always......

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-18T07:13:00.001-08:00

It's time for a break......a respite from the "normal" routine! So.....since you will not be hearing from me until after Christmas I wanted to wish you all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!

During this week I am praying that I can be:

Flexible
Forgiving
Loving
Kind
Merciful
Gracious
Patient

and the list can go on and on......

With Christ, this Christmas, I CAN!!!!

LOVE TO ALL,

Sue

Surving Holiday "gatherings" with children!

2009-12-17T06:58:00.000-08:00

Several years ago the following scenario took place during the holidays.

Our entire family were to connect and celebrate Christmas eve at my mom and dads house. This included my husband and myself,3 siblings and spouses and between us all we had 8 grand kids under 8!!

The party was to start at 5:00 pm. with dinner first and then gifts.

This is how I remember the celebration proceeding.....

*My parents, putting endless hours of preparation and planning into a "fairy tale" Christmas eve.
*Exhausted and hassled parents carting in kids,presents,food,highchairs,pack-n-plays and diaper bags.
*Delicious dinner....Rib roast,mashed potatoes,gravy,several kinds of vegetables and salads.....I ate mine cold because I was up from the table 6 times to "cut meat", clean a spill,change a diaper or nurse a baby!
*Kids begging to open gifts.....parents "trying" to visit.....babies getting sleepy and ready for bed.
*Read Christmas story
*Opened presents
*Tired kids started to fuss and whine....
*Exhausted Parents load up kids,presents,highchairs,pack-n-plays and diaper bags.

It is only 8:30....party and celebration over....My parents disappointed because we had to leave so soon....My siblings and I disappointed because we had so little time to visit.....the grand kids crying because it is the thing to do when you are tired!

O.K......that was a depressing story....but can you relate????

Gleaning from this experience....following are a few suggestions to make the most of your holiday gatherings when there are little ones involved.

*Start the celebration earlier in the day. Perhaps right after nap time.
*Open presents first so the children have something new to occupy them while the parents enjoy each others company.
*Hire a sitter to babysit the younger children while older children and parents enjoy a relaxing meal together.
*Instead of a full course dinner, try a dessert bar or hot and cold appetizers.
*Bring a new video for the older children to watch when they get restless.
*Use paper plates.
*Allow the older kids to spend the night at grandpa and grandmas to prolong the festivities.

My grandma used to say, "This too shall Pass" (I am sure she was referreing to her kidney stones). No, seriously.....this season of your life will go by very quickly...try to set realistic expectations,be flexible and make the most of your holiday gatherings.

Enjoying the Holidays

2009-12-16T07:30:00.000-08:00

If you are hopping over from the H@H blog...WELCOME.

Many of you are experiencing a similar situation that our family did several years ago. How to juggle Christmas "get together" and little children.

Families thrive when they are in a routine. Scheduled naps,meals,playtime and bedtime benefit even the youngest member of your crew.

But with the holidays come interrupted plans and crazy schedules.

Tomorrow (Thurs. the 17Th) Join me as we will discuss creative ways to keep every parent "sane" and even enjoy the festivities to come!

See you tomorrow!

The stress we add to our lives...

2009-12-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

Why is my head tilted to the left?

Well, I had my hair cut last week. My hairdresser asked? Do you want bangs? No, thank you.

That was last Thursday. Today...I do want them.

Beauticians go to school to learn there craft. Why can I not understand that I have NOT been to said school and do not know what I am doing.

But no.....there I am in front of the mirror with the scissors...not just any scissors, my cut EVERYTHING pair. Paper, fabric and cardboard are no match for these bad babies...yes, they even cut through chicken bones.

The end result.....crooked bangs...I now carry my head to the left....that way they appear straight.

I hope they do not take long to grow out again....I am getting a major "kink" in my neck.

Oh, the stress I bring upon myself.

New situations (encourgaing your children)

2009-12-11T06:57:00.000-08:00

I want to share with you a article I wrote that I thought might be helpful when you are encouraging your children to "step out" of their comfort zone. With Christmas concerts, recitals and plays in full swing it gives our children plenty of opportunities for "firsts". With each experience your child will grow in confidence and have a "I can do it" attitude.

As the line, to order food inched forward, Casey leaned into me. “Mommy, will you please order for me?” he begged. “No, son, you need to do this. I will be right next to you,” I comforted. Although progressing, with weekly speech therapy, he still struggled with fluency. Talking with strangers only magnified the situation as he battled to verbalize his requests. “May I help who is next?” came a friendly voice from across the counter. “Y-Y-Y-Yes, I would like a hamburger, please?” Casey replied. After receiving his order and arriving at our table, Casey was grinning from ear to ear. “Mommy, did you hear me?” “I only stuttered once!” The visits to McDonalds became more frequent and the orders more complex as he continued to build confidence in his ability to communicate with others.

It is hard, as moms, to "push" our children in new situations. We want to protect,shield,shelter and safe-gaurd them.... even in situations that would be benificial for growth and development.

At least I do.......In the article above....I had to stand firm and make Casey order. However, the "momma bear" in me wanted to order for him.

Do you struggle with this too?

www.sueheimer.com

Sleeping through Christmas

2009-12-08T10:26:00.000-08:00

This morning I was thinking about Christmas.

Then I looked over at "Ellie" our family farm dog, that on cold days gets a coveted spot inside the back door.

She will lay there for hours.....oblivious to all around her.She is content to sleep through the day.

I do not want to "sleep" through Christmas this year...unaware of what God is doing all around me. I want to be an active participant in bringing joy to others in the midst of their loneliness, hurt and pain. My desire is to offer comfort,care and cheer. What that will look like...well, it might be a smile offered to the haggard clerk at the store. Food bought for the local food pantry. A thank-you and money in the "bell ringers" bucket. I do not have to worry about "how"...God is creative....HE will give me all kinds of opportunities not to "sleep" through HIS birthday celebration this year!

And more than anything, what I want for Christmas....is more of JESUS!

For more thoughts hop over to www.chattingwiththesky.com

Meet my Family!

2009-12-05T16:37:00.000-08:00

My Man and I

My 4 sons

Seth

Levi

Casey

Brock

Seth and my beautiful

daughter-in-law Megan

The Power of Respect

2009-12-03T10:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, at work, I had a thought provoking experience.

A coworker was introducing me to a new employee. "This is Sue," she introduced. "And SHE has the husband all of us want to have!"

Wow! My friend at work has never met my husband, Curt. How would she know what he is like?

FROM ME.....

my shared...

comments

remarks

exchanges

and narrative accounts of my life, with my man, Curt.

I respect Curt. Even when I do not always agree with him or we are in a "dry" season or our relationship.

It is not artificial. I really do respect him. He is a amazing leader,provider and protector. He would take a bullet for me. And when the opportunity lends itself, I share what a great husband and father he is. And I mean it.

I just did not realize until yesterday how HUGE that is. My friends "see" and "know" my husband through my words of Respect and Apreciation of him.

My friends adore my husband, whom they have never met.

And that makes me smile.

Oh, Lord, help me never to disrespect my husband in public (or private) EVER.

The Gift of Strength

2009-11-24T05:23:00.000-08:00

I have been given allot of beautiful gifts. Today, during my time with the Lord, I started thinking about everything I am thankful for. The list was long.....for I have been so Blessed!

Then a word appeared in the scripture I was reading that is truly a gift. We need it every day and yet I fail to mention it or acknowledge thankfulness for it.

Strength! I have been blessed with STRENGTH. A GIFT. A PRICELESS GIFT. I need it to get through each day.

Isaiah 40:28-31

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary,and his understanding one can fathom. He gives STRENGTH to the weary, and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired an weary, and the young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their STRENGTH. They will soar on wings like eagles;they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Today, and this Thanksgiving season, I am thankful for STRENGTH!

Have a BLESSED Thanksgiving, dear friends.

John and I are not so different!

2009-11-19T08:21:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about this...I am about to burst!

OK...call me strange....you will not be the first one!

I attended a study on John the Baptist a few weeks ago. It has been on my mind...I have been drawn BACK to his story repeatedly. It was bugging me...."Why, Lord, am I stuck on this?" I asked.

John the Baptist was the forerunner for Jesus Christ. Foretelling the coming of the Messiah.

OK....you knew that...so...what is the big deal?

While I was studying Isiah 40:3, the same words are used that John spoke in Mathew 3:3.

It Reads: A voice of one calling: "In the dessert prepare the way for the Lord: make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God."

On the opposite page, of my very marked up Bible, I had underlined the words in Isaiah 38:19 ..The living, the living -they praise you,as I am doing today; fathers (and mothers!) tell their children about your faithfulness.

So....why am I about to explode.....I AM a FORERUNNER, kind of like John (without eating the locust and dressed in animal skins, but I DO eat honey and have wild hair many days... add my new zebra sweater and I am close!)

I, as a mom, can be a "forerunner" and tell my children about Jesus. Day after day, I can remind them about the ONE, the Savior of mankind. In the midst of the dessert, the wilderness of this world. Repeating to them stories about God's faithfulness and preparing their hearts for the Day of the Lord!

God has given you and I such awesome roles to play in this life.

Ye-haw......I am so excited I am going to go have a spoon full of honey!!

www.sueheimer.com

Home is where they love you.

2009-11-17T07:14:00.000-08:00

Home......they love me here. They really do. And they know me best!

Despite my irritating quirks and annoying habits (we all have them). They love me.

They don't always like me.....and that's o.k. because I do not always LIKE them either. But, I LOVE them. I am committed to them...I have their back and they have mine.....ALWAYS.

No matter what kind of day I have.....my home is a haven. A place of support and solace. Yes, it helps if there are candles burning, music playing and a pleasant aroma drifting from the kitchen stove. But, even on days when I walk in and trip over 3 pairs of shoes in front of the door and the smell of burnt "Jacks" pizza greeting me, I still see home as place of reassurance and a salve to my heart. And I want my family to feel this too.

Home......is where they LOVE you!

www.sueheimer.com

Kids and Time

2009-11-13T13:52:00.000-08:00

My son walked in from school about a hour ago. Each day I make a conscious effort to have distractions off when he comes through the door. Having my self available and free of the phone or computer gives him my undivided attention should he want to talk.

He didn't.

He had the glazed over look in his eyes that said, "I have had a rough day!" and "No, I do not want to talk about it."

So I did not even ask.

Nor did I remind him of the after school chores that need to be done.

I just let him "veg". I gave him the gift of TIME. ALONE.

That is hard for a mom to do. At least this mom. I want to hear about the day. Fix things....and then...get stuff done.

But over the years from preschooler on up, I have gleaned from countless mistakes I have made....and let him just BE.

Beth Moore Conference

2009-11-10T18:39:00.000-08:00

I am still processing the previous weekend. I attended a Beth Moore conference with my dear friend, Julie.

We laughed and cried. We sang,raised our hands in praise and studied God's word....it was priceless...Julie, myself and 8498 women praising Jesus together! (And a few brave men sprinkled in.)

One of the songs we sang was "How Great is Our God." The worship leader challenged us with this question....How Great do You need God to be?

Whatever you and I are facing this week.....God is GREATER!

Something to think about.

5 minutes until Goodbye test

2009-11-05T07:59:00.000-08:00

I had a interesting conversation with a friend that has been bouncing around in my brain.

She, married just 3 weeks,has had a rough start to her marriage. In her mind, everything that could have gone wrong before, during and after the wedding HAS. It has been a real disappointment, almost devastating experience for her. Her husband, realizing his part in the tangled mess, has tried to apologize...make it better....

She cannot let it go....all her little princess wedding dreams were crushed and something or someone is to blame. She is hurt,distressed,depressed and deeply saddened by the death of her dream wedding.

As she was talking and telling me her story, my heart just ached for her. Yes, many decisions could have been handled differently and things would have turned out better. I felt her pain as she described her bitter disappointment.

After hearing her heart, I shared with her how my husband and I had a rocky and difficult beginning in our marriage.

And I told her, through my MANY mistakes in my own marriage, and relationships, I have learned to ask myself this question.....

I call it the 5 minute test...

"If you only had 5 minutes to tell that person goodbye....FOREVER, would this situation matter?" Is it REALLY worth it?

I told her this with a lump in my throat and tears ready to spill down my cheeks. I have wasted WAY to many moments with those I love, by not asking myself this.

5 Minutes Until Goodbye....something to think about today......

www.sueheimer.com

Don't miss out!

2009-11-01T15:10:00.001-08:00

I almost missed it! Tonight's sunset. I was catching up on my dashboard of blogs and read Jill Savage's. She posted a picture of a sunset.

How long has it been since I watched a sunset? Way too long! Not just a quick glimpse but a lingering gaze....

It was beautiful! And I was blessed. God was painting a picture for me...a gift....free....and I almost missed it.

But tonight...I watched the gift....and smiled.

European Speaking Tour 2010!

2009-10-27T05:55:00.000-07:00

Finally, I can share the news that has been prayed over since last March.

I will be going on a European Speaking Tour in April 2010!

Our team of 4 will be speaking in Hungary,Austria,Germany and the Netherlands.

My heart skips a beat just thinking about it. To have the awesome privilege of encouraging women in there walk with the Lord in Europe!

Oh, Yes, feelings of inadequacy flood over me...like a tidal wave at times.....

But GOD....He orchestrated this whole venue from the beginning...and I TRUST that HE will ENABLE,ENCOURAGE and EQUIP me to full fill His purpose throughout the Tour.

I AM EXCITED...I have never been overseas.....OK, Europe, by God's Grace....here I come!

www.sueheimer.com

Hanging out in the Valley II

2009-10-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

IF you have not read the first installment of "Hanging out in the Valley" on my blog June, 8th, 2009, now might be a good time....or this blog may not make sense....

On Monday I blogged about having a attitude of "If this is the worse thing that happens today, it is still a good day" I was feeling it, liking it and putting the thought processes toward the stresses of each day......then Tuesday came!

Yup, one of my boys blew it big time! It has been a HARD week....REALLY HARD. I am in the valley.........Satan has been the RAT that he is the last few days......filling my head with all sorts of despairing thoughts.....

I read a quote today from Beth Moore that really helped....."If the enemy cannot hang us with a big rope, he'll gladly strangle us with a thousand threads" How True this statement is.....

So, I am abiding in the valley, looking up, knowing my help comes from above. And things will get better.

And Yes, if this is the worst that can happen to me this week, it is still a good week!

I think I NEED the "YOU ARE SPECIAL PLATE" tonight!!!

www.sueheimer.com

It's still a good day...

2009-10-19T10:07:00.000-07:00

As I walked into the local super-market, I was all smiles...the sun was shining (that is really something here lately) and I was feeling really zippity-do-da in my new black trench coat.

After speed-shopping (this helps me stay on-task and not add extras to my list) I headed toward the check out lines..UGG! Only 2 lines open out of 28!! And they both had a long line in them...my do-da all happy mood took a nose dive. Especially since I had a important meeting in 20minutes.

I looked around and thought "Oh, Well, it looks like I will be Suzie checker and do this myself."

First mistake....

After Scanning the second item the lovely machine said..."Please remove item from belt!" What item, where? There is no item on belt?

Hello, anybody out there who can help? Of course NOT! After, looking around I spot "Yolanda", the supervisor of "self checkout" talking 3 rows down to a friend..Can you help me?

Sure...and 2 minutes later....and 1 minute after that..and 2 minutes later...then coupon time.....no, it would not recognize said coupons in the slot....Poor Yalonda, she was SO ready to get this lady in the black trench coat OUT of her store....She tried to help...Yes, she did....she used her badge to push the coupons in the slot....HER BADGE GOT STUCK! The manager had to be called!

20 minutes latter, I thanked Yolanda, who mumbled, "My Pleasure" between clenched teeth.

And what is most amazing about this story...REALLY amazing, is I did not get upset. REALLY.

I keep thinking about a quote I read earlier in the week.

When times of disappointment, frustration and stress come...tell yourself, "If this is the worse thing that happens to me today.... it is STILL a good day!"

And it was still a good day, as I smiled and chuckled all the way to my car (yes, people stared at the smiling giggling woman in the black trench coat, wondering what was so funny!)

www.sueheimer.com

The Hunter and his date.

2009-10-12T06:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon I found myself clothed head to toe in camouflage clothing.

This was no easy feat, getting this gear on. By the time I was done donning on all the garb, I was a sweaty mess. To top is off I pulled a bright orange stocking cap over my hair.

Yup, I looked like a real "honey".

Where was I headed looking like a "Rambo" want-a-be?

I was going on a date with my husband!

Curt hunts. I don't. I want to learn the craft of hunting.

Why?

Because I want to spend time with my Man!

I enjoy being around him and immersing myself in parts of his world.

So Sunday evening, we headed out to hunt. Well, He hunted, I was the scout. You know, the look-out who "watches" for signs of deer. It is a important job, I tell you....

What a adventure, that is, the actual adventure started AFTER I got up in the truck. With all the layers of clothing on, and huge hunting boots AND backpack AND take along seat cushion...I could not lift my leg high enough up to get in the truck...I looked like a real winner....hoisting and pulling with my arms and Curt yanking from the drivers side to get me in...ya, it was funny...and poor Curt was probably thinking, "WHAT have I gotten myself into???"

I had a blast....sitting among the weeds, watching for deer...I was so hidden and camouflaged...I could not even find ME!!

This ranks up there in the funnest date category....me, my man and the outdoors!

Those who know me from the past know this is HUGE. I was a high maintenance, do not get me dirty, type of girl...

I am hooked.....looks like another "hunting date" is in the works for this week.

www.sueheimer.com

The Best Things in life...

2009-10-10T09:35:00.000-07:00

I admit it. I am tired....have been all week.

Usually, I am all about my kids having friends over....so, out of habit I said to Brock, "Hey, do you want to have some guys over for pizza and a movie, after the game Friday night?"

Many times he says "No", this week he said "Yeah, I will ask the guys."

Groan! One more thing...me and my big mouth....

So, last evening, 5 hungry teenagers came roaming in about 10:00. They attacked the pizza, like it was there last meal, and settled into the living room for a movie. And I, exhausted, crashed into bed and slept like the dead!

This morning, as I stumbled toward the kitchen for my morning coffee, I found teenage boys sprawled all over my living room floor sleeping soundly.

I was so thankful they were HERE. At MY home.

I said "Thank YOU, Jesus" that these young men WANT to be at our house. Help me to conserve my energy so that I am willing to have open doors to my sons friends.....to be a positive influence, to model a loving home and have a refuge that say "WELCOME".

www.sueheimer.com

45 lessons life taught me!

2009-10-05T07:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay in blogging...I babysat the twins this weekend. Yup, Thursay-Sunday we had two adorable,squirming,squealing,crying,happy,hungry and sleepy babies on our hands. We had a blast with them.

I seldom send on forwards...they have to be good...REALLY GOOD. And this one IS...so ENJOY!

Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio: To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone....4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.5. Pay off your credit cards every month.6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.8. It's OK to get angry with God.. He can take it.9. Save for retirement starting with your first pay check.10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion, Today is special.22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.24. The most important sex organ is the brain.25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'27. Always choose life.28. Forgive everyone and everything.29. What other people think of you is none of your business.30. Time heals almost everything. Give it time.31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.33. Believe in miracles.34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.37. Your children get only one childhood.38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.42. The best is yet to come.43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.44. Yield.45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

www.sueheimer.com

The Truth about Forgiveness!

2009-09-29T08:19:00.000-07:00

Last week, at bible study, the question came up, what area have you matured or grown in the past year?

For me, it was a no-brain-er....Forgiveness!

Oh, the ugliness of un-forgiveness, it drains me of energy, sucks the living joy and life from a person like a leach.

I know this from experience. It is not fun or pretty. I have wasted minutes,days,months and even years, holding tightly onto baggage that should have been shed long ago.

God has taught me some truths about forgiveness that has really helped me understand what it is...

The definition I like to use for forgiveness is: WHEN YOU GIVE UP THE RIGHT TO GET EVEN.

When you forgive someone (giving up the right to get even with them.) It does NOT mean...

*What happened didn't matter. It does matter...it matters to you and to God.

*That you trust the individual. You can forgive someone and not trust them.

*That you forget. There are experiences that will happen in your life that you will never forget even though you have forgiven.

These truths have helped me with the challenge of forgiving. I have found when I have "given up the right to get even" a tremendous weight has lifted off my shoulders. I feel like I have set something or someone free...and I find out it is ME.

Talk to God about it, share with HIM your struggle in this area. HE so wants to help you with this....let Him carry this for you. We were not meant to haul backpacks of un-forgiveness around, weighting us down and eating at us like a cancer.

Do you struggle with this? More on this topic and how to live in forgiveness daily, this week.

www.sueheimer.com

"Go to your room!"

2009-09-24T08:02:00.000-07:00

"Go to your room, young man!"

These words formed on my lips frequently over the years of child-rearing.

They meant....you go (to your room)think about what you did, said or done....and then we will "talk".

Yesterday, in the middle of a conversation, I sent MYSELF to my room! I needed a time-out. To think about what I was about to say or do!

As I lay on my bed, my first thoughts were to throw a pity party, with ME being the only party-goer present. I struggled with my feelings and emotions over a situation with one of my sons. Thoughts of being "taken advantage" of flooded my mind....that spun into "nobody appreciates me"....Oh, the party I threw for myself...It just got bigger and bigger, as it continued.

Then God:

Gentle reminded me that:

I am loved, and He truly delights in me. He wants to give me wisdom to deal with all situations with my family. The party had to stop, and I needed to listen.

So, listen I did, then I proceeded to seek out my son. I told him, calmly, that I was sorry for MY reaction to him. I asked his forgiveness. After confessing this to him, I told him how I was feeling taken for granted.

He apologized, and we hugged.

It turned out to be a good day. All because I sent myself to my room.

Have you ever had to send yourself to you "room"?

www.sueheimer.com

Quote from Abraham Lincoln

2009-09-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

I read this quote this week at it really spoke to my heart.

"Whatever you are....be a GOOD one!" Abraham Lincoln

It challenged me.... What am I?

I am a:

Christian

Wife

Mother

Lover

Friend

Sister

Speaker

Writer

Business woman

And the list could go on and on....

Dear Friend,

Whatever you are...BE A GOOD ONE today!

www.sueheimer.com

The Fog and motherhood

2009-09-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

Here in central Illinois we have been having heavy fog in the early morning.

While driving in said fog a few days ago, I encountered 2 deer that jumped out in front of me. They could have easily become "hood ornaments" for my suburban.

I have been processing that near mishap for several days now. Sometimes things happen to me that stay with me...this was one of them.

The fog, deer and raising kids....what is the connection?

In the midst of the fog that morning, I was very intentional in my driving. Alert and engaged are accurate words to describe my response to the lack of visibility of the road thus, no venison entrapped in the grill of my vehicle. (Meat for dinner was already thawing at home and road kill was not on the menu).

This is so true in motherhood. There are many days I walk around in a fog...whether toddlers or teens, lack of sleep,endless demands or to-do lists, a blurred sense of direction and purpose of being a mom can easily cloud our vision.

Driving in the fog that morning, I blocked out anything that would distract me and take me away from focusing on the task at hand. As a mom, am I challenged myself this morning to look for things in my life that dim my visibility and vision of motherhood. I prayed for help to be alert and aware of choices or situations that surround me or my family that distract me from the mom I want to be.

www.sueheimer.com

Love Languages continued

2009-09-10T06:49:00.000-07:00

When Curt and I were first married, I had not even heard of "Love languages". This could have alleviated allot of hurt and confusion in our communication with each other.

For instance, shortly after we were married, I went shopping and bought a shirt and pants for Curt. With our finances being tight, gifts were a rarity, so I was very excited to present him with this new set of clothes.
When he arrived home from work, I eagerly thrust the gift bag out to him. He opened it and sighed.

"Its nice," he said, with little enthusiasm. "I really don't need it, can it be returned?"

I was crushed!!! And Curt could not understand why!!

As the years rolled by and I studied the "love languages" I realized that "Gifts" DO NOT speak his language. He was not trying to hurt my feelings..in his mind he didn't need new clothes or any gifts for that matter. A gift just did not fill his love tank!

His "love languages" are "Acts of Service" and "Words of Affirmation".

When I get up and make his lunch each day, pay the bills on time, having clean underwear and socks for him...all this spells "I Love You" to him!

When I tell him that he is a wonderful husband,dad,lover,provider,warrior and best friend...I know it has "LOVE YOU" written all over the words...

What is the love language of your husband?

www.sueheimer.com

LOVE LANGUAGES

2009-09-08T06:17:00.000-07:00

Hello again....Yes, I have been away. I had the privilege of going to Florida last week where I met my mom and sister at a spa. It was GLORIOUS!

Why Florida and why a spa?

Two simple words...LOVE LANGUAGE

Last February I started thinking about what I would like to give my mom for her 70th birthday, which is this month. What would really mean allot to her? I pulled the well worn,dog-eared book from my self that has been a great help and inspiration for me for several years.

The Five Love Languages: by Gary Chapman

It is on my Must read list...Gary Chapman talks about the 5 love languages that communicate love to others and how to speak these languages.

The 5 are:
#1 Words of Affirmation
#2 Physical Touch
#3 Quality Time
#4 Acts of Service
#5 Gifts

His books encourages study of the languages and which ones are dominant in your loved ones life. It is fascinating and it WORKS....

One of my Mother's primary love languages is "Quality time". So hence, a trip to Florida was planned, time together...laughing,sharing,hanging out...it spoke her language...she felt loved and I was extremely blessed.

More on Love languages this week......

Come visit me at: www.sueheimer.com

I don't want to be the mommy today!

2009-08-31T09:33:00.000-07:00

A few hours ago, my youngest,Brock walked out to catch the bus. I watched this 15 year-old Boy/man from the window and wondered....where has the time gone....I stood there for a long while reminiscing...and I thought of this story that I wanted to share.

Being a mom has at times been exhausting, and often I wondered if I was the one for this job......This reality was very evident several years ago. After surviving a stressful morning with 3 boys under 5, I was feeling discouraged, frustrated and disappointed in my roll as the mommy. The door bell rang and I answered it clad in an old Aspen tee shirt, shorts and hair in a pony tail, as I opened the door, the older gentleman on the other side, looked at me and asked, “Is your mommy home?” I stared back at him and said as nicely as I could muster, “I AM the mommy.” I know he meant well…and it could be taken as a complement….However, in the state of mind I was, I told myself “See, even he doesn't think you should be the mommy.”
I slouched down against the closed door and cried, “I really do not want to be the Mom today…someone else needs to be the mommy.” As the minutes creep by and I continued to lean against the door, I felt this tiny hand on my shoulder and sweet toddler breathe on my skin. “I Wov you mommy,” he declared, and laid his head on my shoulder. Yup, I could do it another day…this motherhood thing. Sometime encouragement comes in the smallest and unexpected packages.

As Grammy used to say "This too shall pass"....and it does...very quickly.

If you are in the trenches of motherhood,know there are many that can relate to the "tough" days. Hang in there....it is worth it!

Home..the place I want to be.

2009-08-27T06:17:00.000-07:00

Home....I like it here. It is where I want to be.....

I arrived home last evening from Missouri. And I am excited! I just praised God all the way for HIS goodness and provision.

Blessed to be staying in a beautiful cabin, surrounded by gorgeous acres of trees, wild flowers and ponds, the setting was perfect to concentrate on finishing my book proposal.

And finish it I did! I also got the added blessing of getting away from my normal routine for a few days...that is always a plus.

Thank you for praying for me...I could feel them.

Screaming moms!

2009-08-24T05:26:00.000-07:00

Could I ask you to pray for me....please.....

I am heading to a remote cabin in Missouri to finish a book proposal I have been working on...well, kinda working on it..sigh!

In July I shelved it. Just until the end of August, I told myself. Then, when the rush of summer slows down I will find a place of solitude (yeah!) and really concentrate.

So here I am, boxes of my research and resource material at my feet (no Internet) ready to go...

The working title is "Mommy, please don't scream; Help for frustrated mothers"...can you relate to that title?

After the frustrating weekend I just had.....I think I added a whole new chapter!

Thanks, dear friends...

www.sueheimer.com

Perseverance and everyday life!

2009-08-21T07:06:00.000-07:00

Hallelujah! I made it...I finished my fast yesterday...I wasn't sure if I could do it...seriously..I REALLY like my food!

It took a TON of "stick to it -ness" and perseverance.

Perseverence...hmmm...that work sounds familiar.

Perseverance means: persistence in anything undertaken.
Persevere: To continue resolutely in any enterprise undertaken,despite difficulties encountered:to pursue steadily any design or course begun.

How I need this word active in my life. I want to OWN this word persevere...because it is really what it take to be successful in all our endeavors...

IN:

Marriage...to press on even when your relationship walks through cold or tough spots.

Parenting...Loving,guiding,teaching even when you are burnt out,exhausted and do not see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Friendships..Understanding,gracious and kind even when they are hard and disappointing

Our Relationship with God and His son Jesus...to KEEP SEEKING HIM even when it feels like our prayers are bouncing off the ceiling.

This is hard for me....The sanguine in me wants to throw up my hands,forget the hard stuff and go out and play. Or, on really bad days, by a one way ticket to Cancun!

I know your deeds your hard work and perseverance. REV 2:2 NIV

Fasting for five days!

2009-08-18T06:02:00.000-07:00

Well, I did not want to mention anything because, quite frankly, I did not think I could do it....Fast for five days!

I know, sounds crazy....I started it for health reasons. I have Crohn's disease and have kept it in remission for over 10 years. The telltale signs of it wanting to raise it roaring head and cause havoc in my life, inspired me to get serious and push it back where it belongs...in remission!

60 hours into the fast and still living to tell about it....I am drinking water with phosphorus and lemon juice, kumbucha, organic tea and small amounts of carrot juice. Oh, Joy!

Yesterday I just wanted to sleep...and of course EAT! Everything and I mean EVERYTHING looks good to eat. Even paper!

So pray for me, please. That I can remain strong and not eat the counter top...I really want to get through this...

Those who TRUST in the Lord will renew their strength. Isaiah 40:31

For more GREAT information on healthy eating and Naturopathic Medicine go to http://megansmind-holisticwellness.blogspot.com/

Laundry tips and the laundry fairy

2009-08-17T06:04:00.000-07:00

Whew...home from the fair. The weather was great...the attitudes good and the pigs placed well...

Now, for the mountain of laundry that has taken over my laundry room. I am sure the piles doubled while I was sleeping last night. And of course...there is nothing like the smell of the livestock barn clinging to the clothes. It makes me want to crawl back in bed and hope the laundry fairy shows up...she won't...and it will still be there when I get up "again".

So I sorted, pretreated and will dive into this and be oh so happy when it is all folded and put away....

Three laundry tips to share that I have learned over the years...

#1 Simple Green is great for getting out the most stubborn stains. It is awesome. We by it in the gallon jug at Sams and I dilute it in a spray bottle. I also use Simple Green on floors, washing cars, counter tops ect...the list is endless.

#2 Put peroxide in a spray bottle and spray on blood stains. The stain just bubbles up and then put garment in washer. I have also used it on upholstery and dab with a damp cloth..works Great!

#3 I had a plastic dish washing tub for each of my boys with there name on it. As I folded clothes I put the clothes right in there specific tub. Then they put there clothes away and returned the tub to the laundry.

Attitude

2009-08-11T09:16:00.000-07:00

Today is the day...we leave for 5 days at the state fair. We will Load the trailer with tack,feed,fans,bedding,buckets and countless other items all in a effort to keep our "show pigs" calm,cool and comfortable while lounging in their pens.

Then I will load the suburban with clothes,boots,food,lawn chairs and coolers to keep the "family" calm,cool and comfortable while at the fair.

Allot of physical effort of loading and unloading takes place as we prepare...but what about my Attitude....am I preparing that? Loading my head with scripture and encouraging words?Unloading self absorption,pity parties and "Why are we doing this again?" thoughts so that I can stay cool,calm and comfortable at the fair?

The physical aspect of getting ready is exhausting...however, the mental side doesn't even compare. I have to "Load myself up" to be the best mom,wife and supporter I can even if the project leaves me questioning our sanity.

Why? Because it is important to somebody else......and it is worth it.

The Magic of the Kitchen timer

2009-08-05T04:59:00.000-07:00

Whether your children attend private,public or homeschool,morning "rush" hour can set the tone for the entire day.
After many mornings of frustration, I finally turned to my kitchen timer to help create a productive and positive atmosphere in our home.
How this works: I would set the timer for 20 minutes and wake the kids. They were aware that they had this allotted time to get there morning routine accomplished. Make bed, shower,brush teeth,dressed ect. I also included a list of what was expected on the bathroom mirror in case they "forgot".
All children were expected to be in the kitchen for breakfast when the alarm went off. If the alarm rang and they were not ready then the following evening they would have an extra chore to do for every minute longer it took them to be ready.

This works great and no more nagging mommy! It is the big,bad timer! I suggest you purchase several (I used the cheap dial kind) because your kids will find them and try to hide the timer!

The Simple gifts in life

2009-08-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

My husband gave me a gift last night. It was so very simple....He set the table, and as he was doing so, he slipped the "You are Special" Plate at my place.

We had just come off a very exhausting,stress-filled week at the county fair. It was his way of saying "Thank You".

Thank you for:

Supporting him and his dreams

Respecting him

Loving him

Honoring him

Showing interest in his hobbies

It was a simple,beautiful gift...I am still enjoying and unwrapping it today....

For more on the "You are special Plate" visit www.sueheimer.com

bean fields and the major stuff

2009-07-28T12:55:00.000-07:00

Sunday evening we were driving along the countryside with our friends, (Randy and Margie, you know who you are!) when we came across a man, carrying a suitcase, and walking along the road. Up ahead we could see that his truck had missed the curve, went through a culvert and ended up,badly damaged, in a farmers bean field.
My husband,who was driving asked the man if he needed help. "Yes, he stated, If you could just pull my truck out of the man's bean field that would be great". So Curt and Randy hooked up a chain to the front of our suburban and towed the said truck out of the field. They offered further assistance...cell phone usage, a ride somewhere.....but the man declined and keep repeating "I just wanted to get my truck out of that there man's field".
As we were driving away, and gawking at the totaled front end of his truck....Randy commented "I think he has bigger things to worry about than that man's bean field".

I have been thinking about the scene from Sunday night.....

Have you ever heard the phrase "There is bigger fish to fry" or "Save your battles for the Majors not the Minors?" How often in my life and relationships with others do I spend countless energy on "getting my truck out of the bean field" and not on the bigger stuff that really matters....prioritizing what I should be spending my precious time,energy and resources on.....Lord, help me be wise as a wife,mother,friend,sister,neighbor,co-worker,teacher ect...help me to not get so distracted by the minor things in life that I miss what you really want me to focus on today and teach me to be sensitive to your spirit and leading...Amen.

For more on prioritizing your life visit www.sueheimer.com

2009-07-23T08:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was one of "those" days...I questioned my commitment to be a "stay at home" mom. I work once a week at the hospital and write and prepare for speaking engagements from home. Most of the week I am here at home, my haven, my families "safe" place.

There are times (like yesterday) when I look around at my surroundings, and Satan (the rat) starts playing the mind game with me.

If I worked at the hospital more I could....replace the counter tops(one has a hole burnt in it) get more fashionable flooring, update the 8 year old vehicle with a newer one...and the list goes on and on...all wants...no needs.

But God, reminded my that if I worked outside the house more I would....miss the chance to talk with my 3 college age boys when they call at random hours of the day just to "talk"....precious moments with my daughter-in-law talking about "girl" stuff.....savoring the last months of driving my 15 year old around before he gets his license...having the time to put on soft music and light a few candles to welcome my "man" home after a long day.....

So, I renewed my commitment and I am off to clip more coupons.....so that we can live on primary one income...it is worth it!

2009-07-20T16:34:00.000-07:00

We just finished dinner and I wanted to share a fun and interactive idea that our family has done for years. It is called "Hi Light" "Low Light". While we are around the table eating, one family member starts with their Hi light and low light of the day.

Often, when you ask your children or husband how there day was, the standard response is "fine". This leaves a person "wanting" in the area of details and connection.

Our family finds that when you play this game, "fine" is not a option. It will amaze you the things you find that your loved one experienced that day that you would have otherwise never have known! Give it a try and incorporate a new tradition in your home!

Spending time with Denise Austin!

2009-07-14T05:29:00.000-07:00

Yup. Denise Austin and I are becoming fast friends. I bought her video "Shrink your Female Fat Zones" and we are bonding.

My athletic ability on a scale from 1-10 is a -4. Seriously, I cannot even jog to the mailbox without tripping....pathetic. However, a friend told me about this workout video and said even I could do it..thanks...I think...anyhoo I LOVE it. The first 20 minutes are with light weights and the last 20 are with a stability ball.

Denise is so encouraging...she says, "Looking Good!" even as I am falling off the ball onto the ground in a heap. And lets not forget the workout garb. I am decked out in "Football" playoff shorts size L and a Ridgeview Mustang tee shirt that states HEIMER 2 on the back. Top it off with flat greasy hair in a pony tail and I am a real honey to look at.

But Denise doesn't care...she is encouraging my efforts and no amount of failure in front of the video machine changes that.

On such a larger scale, God is for me also. And HE is for you. Not "may be," not "has been," not "was." not "would be," but "GOD IS!" He is for you today. At this hour. At this minute. His loyalty won't increase if you are better nor lessen if you are worse. He is for you!

NO one can defeat you.

God is for you and LOVES you simply because he has chosen to do so.

Even when you don't feel lovely.

Even when we fail miserably.

Even when I fall off the ball.

Others may abandon you, ignore you, mistreat you, but God will love you. Always. No matter what.

"I'll call nobodies and make them somebodies: I'll call the unloved and make them BELOVED."
Romans 9:25 MSG

2009-07-11T17:10:00.000-07:00

I took my suburban back to the local repair shop. They had fixed the brakes last week and the nagging squeal was still present and irritating. The friendly owner/repair man came out to the waiting room where I was uhm...patiently waiting? Our conversation went something like this..

Repair man: I found and fixed the problem.

Me: Great! What was the problem?

He: The parking brake keeps sticking. I took them off so it won't be a problem anymore.

Me: Well don't I NEED parking brakes? I mean...I never have used them but what if I visit someplace with hills?

He: Park at the bottom of the hill. (He was not smiling)

Me: Okay????

If you see a tan suburban, and you live in a area of the country that has hills...do not park behind said vehicle...you have been warned.

2009-07-08T05:50:00.001-07:00

My Man is in Canada with our son fishing. So...that leaves me in charge of the yard and the animals. Yes, one dog and 4 pigs (4-H project). Hence, I have been spending time in our 3 acre yard mowing, weeding and killing beetles (see previous post) and keeping the animals alive. Today is "roundup" day. The sprayer will be filled and I will walk around the yard and our gravel lane and squirt weed killer on anything green that needs to perish. Once the poison hits the leaves, the plant doesn't stand a chance. It will die.

This makes me think of my life and the sin that creeps in and grows. Sin erodes my life and takes root and beauty turns ugly. Where do I need some "round-up". Oh, Lord, make me so sensitive to sin in my life that I want stop it dead with the "spray" of your word and prayer! Selfishness,self-centered,arrogant,discontentment and pride need to be demolished and wither and DIE. So.....today....I will be prancing around my yard with my sprayer singing "Oh, VICTORY in JESUS", at the top of my lungs! And the neighbors will be calling Curt in Canada, for sure that the insecticide I sprayed on the beetles has gone to the brain and made me crazy! I am so excited I am going to get my chore clothes on right now and kill me some weeds!!!!

What does Japanese Beetles and my thought life have in common?

2009-07-06T19:05:00.000-07:00

If the neighbors thought I was a little on the "strange" side, today I left NO DOUBT! If they happened to venture by my house, they witnesses Mrs. Heimer in chore clothes, standing on her 4-wheeler, wildly spraying the Japanese Beetles that have descended upon her yard. What a sight to behold. I feel it is my mission to wipe them from the face of the earth....or at least my yard and let them chew on the neighbors foliage.
Every year I battle the "beetles". Like a wild woman I attack them with fury and determination and every year they come back again. It is like my thought life....I don't achieve victory and never have to bother with that thought again. Our thought life is something we will be working on until eternity in our desire to be godly. Renew your mind with God's word and attack negative thought aggressively. You WILL be victorious and Satan WILL be defeated!

Here is the endurance and the faith of the saints. Revelation 13:10

2009-07-02T05:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me....Yes, on June 30th I turned 45! I am o.k. with it. When my mom turned 45 I thought she was old...sorry mom! I have rethought the word "old" and I am not and she wasn't! My 45th birthday is now ranked in the top 5 category. It was just a GREAT day. My 4 sons and daughter-in-law gave me a gift I will cherish FOREVER. They compiled a list of 45 memories or expressions of appreciation for me. It is priceless!!! There words melted my heart and renewed my vision and zeal to continue to walk worthy of the high calling of "Motherhood". Being a mom is hard work! So often frustration,exhaustion and disillusionment crowd out the joy of being a parent. Hang in there......it WILL be worth it!

2009-06-24T16:20:00.000-07:00

Today is my 25th wedding anniversary! After 25 years, I am still crazy about Curt! There has been "allot of water under the bridge" since I walked up the church aisle a quarter century ago. Self-centered,immature and naive would all be fitting descriptive words for this bright-eyed bride. But GOD, in his redeeming grace, mercy and love, blessed me with a man who was long on patience and short on memory. Together, through better and worse, sickness and health, God has sustained us and we have grown together in Love and solid commitment. We have been BLESSED.

Teenagers, Ya got to Love them!

2009-06-22T09:33:00.000-07:00

Ugg, teenagers, you got to love them! I tell my sons, "I will always Love you, but sometimes I do not like you!" This morning was one of those days.... Willing to do my son a favor, I proceeded to drive his car to town for him. When I first got in the vehicle I turned on the washer fluid to clean the windows. When the wipers came on I discovered he has NO windshield wipers....how can someone drive in the rain without these? Soon after, as I was zipping down the road (praying it would not rain) I realized the fuel gage was buried and the low fuel light on! (Did I mention it is 20 miles to town??) Of course, to top it off, the car decided to put me over the edge with a flat tire...in the middle of nowhere! Yup, teenagers, ya got to Love 'em and take plenty of Prozac!!