My sister sent me this prayer at the beginning of a new year and I would like to post it here as a prayer for anyone that might be reading this. I need this as I enter 2008.

"I stand between the years. The Light of My Presence is flung across the year to come - the radiance of the Sun of Righteousness.
Backward, over the past year is My Shadow thrown,
hiding trouble and sorrow and disappointment.
Dwell not on the past - only on the present...
bury every fear of the future...of suffering, of loss.
Bury all thought of unkindness and bitterness, all your dislikes,
your resentments your sense of failure,
your disappointments in others and in yourself...
leave them all and go forward to a new and risen life.
Remember you must not see as the world sees. I hold the year in My Hands -
in trust for you.
But I will guide you one day at a time. Leave the rest with Me.
You must not anticipate the gift by fears or thoughts of the days ahead.
And for each day I shall supply the wisdom
and the strength."

Have a blessed New Year.

Well, another beautiful Christmas. It had it's rough moments without my Dad but we had a good time together and he was doing well when we went to see him.
2008 - it hasn't even arrived yet and it promises to be quite eventful. I just needed to post one of my favorite quotes; one that has seen me through a lot of twists and turns in my life. And with it I pray for a very blessed New Year for you all.

"The next hour, the next moment, is as much beyond our grasp and as much in God's care, as that a hundred years away. Care for the next minute is just as foolish as care for the morrow, or for a day in the next thousand years - in neither can we do anything, in both God is doing everything."

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

My pastor spoke a couple weeks ago about waiting on God. It seems as if there are a lot of areas of my life in which I am waiting to see God's hand. I was slightly frustrated the other day and I was telling Him that it would really be o.k. to take my Dad home to heaven. After all that's where he wants to be, what was He waiting on?! My mom went to visit him yesterday and his roommate started talking to her about my dad. He said, "your husband is the kindest, gentlest man of faith I have ever met. I sure wish I could be more like him." God doesn't always show us why His timing is what it is but in this case He was willing to give me a glimpse of how He was still using my dad and He just isn't finished with him here on earth. Sometimes through our earthly eyes it just doesn't make sense. But God's timing is always perfect. He is never late.

"Oh come let us adore Him". We sing this one all season. Once again, I borrow from others as I am not one that is able to compose beautiful, wise words but I do appreciate them.

"...the highest adoration is not occupied with the recollection of favors received and mercies extended, though they do help one be aware of the true nature of God. There is still, in all such recollection, a remnant of that self-centeredness which it should be the purpose of prayer to escape. In it, we are still thinking of God in terms of something done to me and for me. We never really adore Him, until we arrive at the moment when we worship Him for what He is in Himself, apart from any consideration of the impact of His Divine Selfhood upon our desires and our welfare. Then we love Him for Himself alone. Then we adore Him, regardless of whether any personal benefit is in anticipation or not. Then it is not what He has done for us or what we expect Him to do for us, but what He has been from eternity before we existed, and what He is not even if we were not here to need Him, and what He will be forever whether that "forever" includes us or not - it is that which captivates us and evokes from us the selfless offering of self in worship. That is pure adoration. Nothing less is worthy of the name." Albert Day

Father; may my life make your great heart glad today. Let me live in adoration, praise and gratitude for who you are and all you have come to mean to me. Amen

Another beautiful week-end. Happy birthday to my favorite 4 yr. old, Trey Ryan Stetler. I love this bundle of joy. He is such a handsome little guy and it is so obvious to me that he will have something very special to contribute to our world. We celebrated his birthday Transformer style. His smile is contagious and his personality is electric. He walks into a room and it lights up. Here is a picture of our Trey for you to enjoy. Happy Birthday big guy!!

It's been a while since I've posted but as you can guess I've been going a mile a minute. Some people would say I get obsessed with Christmas but, oh well... Last weekend I had the weekend from heaven. I spent two days with my husband and my two kids in Nashville Indiana. My favorite people and my favorite place. It was like deja vu. We have spent a lot of time in this special place, just the four of us and I never thought it would happen again. I get very melancholy this time of year, thinking about good times that have come and gone. Last weekend we went back and relived some of those memories. For me it was wonderful. I think we all had a great time. I love my family and nobody has a better husband or kids than I. I wish you all special times this holiday season and think about re-living some. You really can go back.

I thought I would share some special moments from our wonderful Thanksgiving weekend. Fun times, good memories and a family finally coming together again.

I just thought I would share some pictures from our wonderful Thanksgiving weekend. Fun times, good memories and a family finally coming together again.

What a beautiful Thanksgiving. The only thing that would have made it better would have been if my Dad had been able to be with us. Nevertheless, I thank God for all his blessings. Now it's time to get ready for Christmas. The tree must go up soon!!

Thanksgiving week. So much to be thankful for. So much to look forward to. The Oklahoma contingency is coming to town minus one major player. Unfortunately Ginger won't be with us. But she will be home taking care of a precious little bundle that we can't wait to welcome to the family. We will miss her. We also won't have my wonderful father around the table with us. He's just not able, it would be far too much for him. This will be the first holiday without him. He loved the holidays. Not a whole lot more to say about that. It kinda leaves me empty just thinking about him not being with us. I find myself wondering what next Thanksgiving will look like. Who will we have said good-bye to, who will we have said hello to. One, maybe two beautiful little girls from Liberia. Yes, as always a year will bring big changes, some I'm sure we don't even expect. So, for now I will enjoy today, this holiday season. May it be blessed.

I waited for you today
But You didn't show
I needed You today
So where did you go?
You told me to call
You said You'd be there
and though I haven't seen You
Are You still there?

I cried out with no reply and
I can't feel You by my side
so I'll hold tight to what I know
You're here and I'm never alone

And though I cannot see You
And I can't explain why
Such a deep reassurance
You've placed in my life
We cannot separate
'Cause You're part of me
And though You're invisible
I'll trust the unseen

You're here and I'm never alone

I have the most beautiful, precious family in the whole wide world!! My father is getting ready to move on to be with Jesus and my daughter and son-in-law are going to be bringing more joy into our family simply by obeying a call God has given them. It seems like we are going through so many emotions right now and I just keep trying to keep everything in God's hands. Help me Lord, to trust in your plan unconditionally. Thank you for using my wonderful grandsons to speak to me in such a beautiful way. I think the following words might be my Dad's testimony:

When I started my journey in fresh childlike trust
I believed that the Lord's way was best
I would read in His Word how He mothered the bird
And grieved when it fell from its nest
How I felt His delight when I chose to do right
And I prayed I would not make Him sad
We would meet on the way in the cool of the day
What a pure sweet communion we had.

The road I have traveled has sometimes been steep
Through wild jagged places of life
Sometimes I've stumbled and fallen so hard
That the stones cut my soul like a knife
But the staff of my Shepherd would reach out for me
And lift me to cool pastures green
With oil of the spirit anointing my wounds
There I'd rest by the clear healing stream

Oh but now more than ever I cherish the cross
More than ever I sit at His feet
All the miles of my journey have proved my Lord true
And He is so precious to me

And because of my Dad's life, these words are my testimony

In Christ alone my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ, I stand

No guilt of life, no fear of death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life's first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny
No power of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand
'til He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ, I'll stand

My Dad seems to be getting ready, ready for the best trip of his life. Before he broke his hip, he was so unhappy and lonely and discontent. Now, he seems to be in a holding pattern, just waiting for the next step. I am so grateful that my mom can visit him now and go away smiling. On Sunday they had church together in his room. They sang an old hymn together and she looked over and Dad had raised his hand in testimony of his trust in God. A trust that bears witness to the fact that all this will be worth it when he sees Jesus. A trust that never once wavered as he lived his life in front of his two girls. A trust that both of us now hold onto because we saw it modeled and proven to be true. I pray I pass that on to my family because when all is said and done, nothing else really matters. We grow old, give up our jobs, sell our homes and possessions and prepare for God to take us home. I love my Dad.

Lily of the Valley, let your sweet aroma fill my life
Rose of Sharon show me how to grow in beauty in God's sight
Fairest of ten thousand, make me a reflection of your light
Daystar shine down on me let your love shine through me in the night

Lead me Lord, I'll follow. Anywhere you open up the door
Let your word speak to me, show me what I've never seen before
Lord I want to be your witness, you can take what's wrong and make it right
Daystar shine down on me, let your love shine through me in the night

I had a wonderful week-end. Back to my roots; to the wonderful people and places that were such an intricate part of my childhood. I walked into that wonderful old farm house and went directly to the spot where I sat on my Papa's lap in his recliner. I closed my eyes and I could still sense him. That wonderful man, the wisest man I know with a 6th grade education. There is life there. Some of the houses I passed were empty and abandoned but now this one. For that I am grateful. People were there living and making memories just like our family did. I truly thank God for my roots. I have a wonderful heritage.

How wonderful life is 'cause you're in the world!!

Home from market and I feel like I have re-entered my life. I got back to church, back to the gym but most importantly back to these guys. Looking forward to the cool-down that is coming this week so it will really feel like fall. Pumpkin patch, sleep-overs, a family reunion and Bob Dylan in concert. I like my life!! Jen Leonard has been living with us temporarily and I am so glad she has. She is a wonderful addition to our family. Thanks to her for putting up with my husband in the office and for loving my grandkids in such a beautiful way. They are truly richer for having her in their lives. We're really glad she's here. You might as well put that house up for sale, I don't think Mr. Pressley is going to let you move!!

Got my dad through the operation and in to re-hab. Thank goodness my sister was here, she was such a help. It was really fun to see Ryan. Dad's spirits are really good. That makes him much easier to deal with. Soooo.... we are off to market. AGAIN!! Leaving the house and the pets in Jen's hands. (and the office!!) I'll check in when we return. I'll miss my little ones!!

WOW!! What a great trip. I think Kerri and I fell in love with New York City. I'm sure there were some out there that didn't think two women could find there way around but not a problem. We maneuvered the subways and crammed as much as we could into the short time we had. Our hotel was wonderful with a great restaurant. We enjoyed room service the first night. We saw the Statue of Liberty and Battery Park, ground zero, Macy's and Herald Square and of course Central Park which was a wonderful surprise. I really didn't know what to expect and it was beautiful. We hit the town on Saturday night an had an amazing dinner at an upscale steakhouse in Rockefeller Plaza. I highly recommend it. Then it was time for the show and it was fantastic. All in all a perfect trip. Unfortunately while I was gone, my Dad fell and broke his hip. He had a replacement yesterday and now we begin a whole new chapter. He made it through the operation, we'll just take a day at a time.

Well, we're off to New York City in the morning, just my daughter and me. We may come back and then again we may have so much fun that we'll stay!! I'm sure New York will never quite be the same. Should be a memory making trip. See you all when we get back.

We just celebrated our beautiful daughter's 30th birthday. " Beautiful" describes her inside and out. She is someone that loves her family and her God. Her smile really does light up a room.
Sorry, I'm sounding a bit like a hallmark card, but I really am proud to say that she is my daughter. I was blessed when she entered my life and I cherish every moment I have with her. Kerri, thank you for all the joy you have given me. I love you with all my heart, you are truly beautiful!!

i just returned from a very dear friends funeral. Her footsteps go back a long way in my life. I have never been so inspired to keep the faith and do all God asks of me while on this earth as I was when I left this service. She was a true friend and I am glad I knew her but the service that ushered her out of this life changed me and hopefully the way I spend the time I have left on this earth. Thank you Wanda.

My handsome grandson started kindergarten today. I can't believe that much time has passed. It seems like only yesterday that we were walking endless miles in the heat, trying to start Kerri's labor, wondering if the time would ever come that we would meet this remarkable human being. Now I am praying for this little man that God will protect him and walk with him as he begins a new part of his life. Riley, I love you more than words could ever say. You are truly a special person. I know this will be a fun adventure for you and soon you will be reading to Nana.

I can count a million times
People asking me how
I can praise You with all that I've gone through
The question just amazes me
Can circumstances possibly change who I forever am in You
Maybe since my life has changed
Long before these rainy days
It's never really ever crossed my mind to turn my back on you, oh Lord
My only shelter from the storm
But instead I draw closer through these times.
So I pray -
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory
And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain.
I am Yours regardless of the dark clouds that may loom above
Because You are much greater than my pain
You who made a way for me
By suffering Your destiny
So tell me what's a little rain
Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy,holy
Is the Lord God Almighty

Here are some pictures of vacation. These are the very special people that make me smile every time I think of them. What a great two weeks we had. Thanks guys, for being you and bringing me so much joy.

Well, we are home from vacation. It was another interesting two weeks. We are very grateful that we saw God's hand of protection as Mike went to war with a wave and the wave won. Two hospitals, multiple tests, pain medicine and a neck brace later we are very hopeful that he is going to be fine in time. He goes to our family doctor today and I am anxious to see the new x-rays. Hopeful the healing is progressing and he can get back to normal soon. We really did have a great time otherwise. The weather was beautiful and we were all able to relax. Eric even came down for a few days. It's good to be home and like always, I am looking forward to settling in for the fall season. Kerri and I will be leaving or a long week-end soon to New York. The boys are getting ready for school and my mom is trying to adjust to not living with my Dad. She is dealing with all the loneliness and feelings of guilt but I am hoping she will adjust and find some new things to fill up her life. It's a huge adjustment when you have been married as long as they have. I will post some pictures from vacation soon.

I had a date with both of my two guys and we really had fun, times I will cherish. Trey is so much fun to be with - laid back and never in a hurry. He helps me slow down. Riley is getting so big and is so much fun to talk to. It seems as if it was just yeterday that I was walking around Weston in the heat with Kerri, trying to start her labor and feeling like we would never get to meet this wonderful little boy. Now we are getting ready to watch him begin kindergarten. I don't like it, not one bit. But there is absolutely nothing I can do about it so I will just take every minute I cn possibly share with them and make the most of it. Soon Evan will be wanting a date with Nana. We will be leaving for the beach on Friday. I am so looking forward to it. It will be good to spend some time with Nicole too, to get to know her a little more. I better get some more packing done.

I wish I could understand what is going on inside my Dad. He is so negative and depressed and then you add the fact that he can't process things you try to explain to him - it is next to impossible to interact with him. I took my mom to see him today and she left so upset. I really don't know if it is worth it because it doesn't seem to help him any either. We gave her her car today so she can start driving. She is really doing well with her recovery. I'm grateful for that. We get good reports from the nurses about Dad. He just seems to be taking it out on all of us. I really think he is angry with us. The nurses just love him and say he is making friends and is very pleasant. I would love to see that side of my Dad again. It's been a very long time since he has been that way around us.
Kerri and Eric and the boys went camping this week-end and it is storming. Not a good combination. Mike leaves for Vegas market tomorrow and I'm going to drive up to Sugar Creek and try to find a rug for my kitchen. Some friends are going with me. Friday will be here before we know it and we will be leaving for the beach. Summer will soon be over. I had a great date-day with my little Trey. He is so much fun to be with. He told me that he was going to be a cook when he grew up but he was going to cook at home. He says he is staying at home "foreser". When I asked him why, he said, "Because my Daddy loves me!"

Wow, did I get some great news today!! My sister and the entire clan in Oklahoma will be sharing Thanksgiving with us this year!!!!!! It has been far tooooooooo long. I'm so excited I can't hardly stand myself. So we will celebrate turkey day and then I vote that we have Christmas while they're here too. This is all I need for Christmas, my family all together. I hope and pray nothing gets in the way of our plans. We have so many fun memories, it will be great to finally get the chance to make some more.
We leave for the beach two weeks from tomorrow. WooHoo!!!

Back from our little get-away. We had a really nice time - very relaxing. My husband said he didn't hear me "sigh" once. I'm a "sigher". It's stress relief for me. Mike will be traveling a lot til summer is over. He has two business trips before the beach which is in three weeks and another one right after. It seems strange that vacation is almost here, I am usually looking at more like six or seven weeks before we leave. It's kind of nice to be going a little earlier. I haven't heard of many hurricanes so far this season. Hope that holds out. I really hope we can get two full weeks in this year.

I am looking forward to this week-end. Tomorrow Mike and I will leave for Nashville Indiana. A little restored town in the hills of Indiana where I can get lost. I plan on enjoying a slower pace, browsing through little shops, and eating at quaint little places that seem to have forgotten that the year is 2007. I am an Andy Griffith show fan and the other day I bought the entire first season. Lately I have felt the need to disappear into my childhood and that is one way I can do it. It was such a fun childhood, I really don't have ANY bad memories. So, I think this weekend will revive me mentally and physically as I slip back into time if only for a brief few days. I will miss my little ones but they will be having fun at the cottage. I just hope all is well with my mom and dad while I am gone.

Happy 4th!! It seems as if when we reach this point in the summer, it flies by til the end and we're thinking about Christmas!! I am at home alone this morning, Mike is golfing. It has been a very busy week taking care of my mom. She got her staples removed and will be going back to her apartment on Friday. She is doing well. We are all just struggling with my Dad's situation. He isn't happy anywhere and I really think it is too much for my mom to continue caring for him. But leaving him there is hard too. I feeling really "blah" today. I think my emotions are just somewhat drained. We watched Red,White and Boom from Kerri's new house last night. We met some really nice people across the street in a sad situation and I really don't know the answer for them. We walked around the neighborhood and I have to admit, it was a unique experience for this very sheltered woman. Kerri took me to see the gardens Eric has started. It is doing great. Right in the middle of this plot of land that his been totally ignored for so long is something alive and green and growing. All it took was a little attention. Hmmmm...

Mike just got home from his golf trip and I am so glad. It has been a really long week. Tomorrow is our 33rd wedding anniversary. I can't remember not being married to this wonderful man. He is my best friend. I am really tired tonight. I feel a little numb. It has been a stressful week. It is amazing what the "s" word can do to you. I'm really tired of stress. But it's life and it's o.k. One foot in front of the other, one day at a time. I have so much to be thankful for. Here's to a beautiful week-end. Kerri and the boys will be spending it with us and that is always a good time.

Prayers

We've had some real answers to prayer this week. It's been a long week but things are good. My mom made it through her surgery and is at re-hab where my dad is. Mike and Mikey are getting ready for their annual golf trip. It's been a little strained between them but God is working that out too. I just wish I was the one going on a golf trip. Kerri and Eric have been watching their house move to completion but somewhat slower than we had hoped. But they will soon be on the other side and enjoying their new home. Riley met his kindergarten teacher and it is the one they had hoped for. Jen left today and we will miss her but I am really excited to see what God has in store. I'm sure it will be good. So...life just keeps moving on and I'm really glad God is in control. Prayers today for Ruby, a precious little life that is so new and she is already feeling God's hand in a healing way. Prayers for mommy and daddy too!!

Happpy Birthday Evan!!! This litte guy is one and we all had so much fun celebrating. Thank you Evan for being such a joy to all of us. Nana has some very special wishes and prayers for your life and I am looking forward to another year of you growing and making us all laugh with your crooked smile and that evil little laugh. I only wish the years would slow down. You are a very special little boy and I feel truly blessed. I love you.

I call, You hear me
I've lost it all
And it's more than I can bear
I feel so empty

You're strong
I'm weary
I'm holdin' on
But I feel like givin' in
But still You're with me

And even though I'm walkin' through
The valley of the shadow
I will hold tight to the hand of Him
Whose love will comfort me
And when all hope is gone
And I've been wounded in the battle
He is all the strength that I will ever need
He will carry me

And even though I feel so lonely
Like I've never been before
You never said it would be easy
But You said you'd see me through the storm.

This is for my Dad. He has walked with God the majority of his life. I'm not sure that he can even call on God as he used to so often but my faith tells me that God can fill in the blanks and knows just what my Dad needs. He won't leave him alone now cause you see, if it's not real in the dark places, it isn't real at all. God, see him through this, see us all through this!!

Tonight I pray my Dad doesn't feel alone. I pray God will visit him and give him peace. Speak comfort to him even in his confusion. Help him sleep

More words that lift me up:

God, my God, I cry out
Your beloved needs You now
God, be near, calm my fear
And take my doubt

Your kindness is what pulls me up
Your love is all that draws me in

I will lift my eyes to the Maker
of the mountains I can't climb
I will lift my eyes to the Calmer
of the oceans raging wild
I will lift my eyes to the Healer
of the hurt I hold inside
I will lift my eyes, lift my eyes to You

God, my God, let Mercy sing her melody over me
God, right here all I bring is all of me

Cause You are and You were and You will be forever
the Lover I need to same me
Cause You fashioned the earath and You hold it together, God
So hold me now

Another week begins - one that promises to be bitter-sweet. I am moving my Dad to an assisted living facility. There's not much more that can be said about that. On the sweet side this little boy will celebrate his first birthday on Saturday. That will get me through the week. Life and its cycles can be overwhelming.

Well, so it begins. Summer- crazy, hectic, fun summer. June is always nuts and this one may set a record. Not only do we have three birthdays and an anniversary but this June will bring new beginnings for so many. My mom will be having her surgery on June 11th. Hopefully we can get my dad moved and settled by the first week of June. Don't forget Evan's first b-day. Mikey is moving this week-end and Kerri will be moving by the middle of the month, right after mom's surgery. Oh yea, Mikey's 25th b-day is sandwiched between Evan's and mom's surgery. Then of course comes 2 weeks of re-hab for mom, and Mike's b-day and our anniversary toward the end of the month. Oh I almost forgot, a big friends of the Pressley's picnic on the 16th. OMG!!as the "my-spacer's" say. I hope this old lady can keep up!!

We closed on my mom and dad's house this week. She cried. The end of chapters in your life are some of the hardest things to deal with. I didn't know what to say, so I said nothing. The older you get, the more final the chapters. It's the memories of the chapters that help us watch them come to an end. Unfortunately, my dad has very few memories of this chapter. It just doesn't seem fair.

I like to pass good things on. This speaks to me, maybey it will you.

Who is this King of Glory that persues me with His love
And haunts me with each hearing of His softly spoken words
My conscience, a reminder of forgiveness that I need
Who is this King of Glory who offers it to me

Who is this King of angels, O blessed Prince of Peace
Revealing things of heaven and all its mysteries
My spirit's ever longing for His grace in which to stand
Who is this King of glory, Son of God and son of man

His name is Jesus, precious Jesus
The Lord almighty, the King of my heart
The King of glory

Who is this King of Glory with strength and majesty
And wisdom beyond measure, the gracious King of kings
The Lord of earth and heaven, the creator of all things
Who is this King of glory, He's everything to me

The Lord of earth and heaven, the creator of all things
He is the King of glory, He's everything to me.

I had a great Mother's Day. My entire family went to church together. That hasn't happened in a long time. That was really all I needed for the day. Then Kerri and Eric fixed lunch, what a treat!! My husband gave Kerri and me gift cards for massages and pedicures at Penzones and we hung out all day just being together. My Mom came over for a short while by herself. She looked so pretty. I think it was relaxing for her to not have to worry about my Dad being there. Today Kerri and I are going to take her out for a late lunch to celebrate being mothers. I was working in my parents yard the other day and an old neighbor that I had grown up with was visiting her mother. I asked her if she had any children and she very happily said an emphatic "no". I really felt sorry for her. I am so blessed. Thanks kids!!

I got through my eye surgery - piece of cake. The recovery was a little challenging but overall a good experience. One week later and I'm already seeing 20/40. And one week after joining weight watchers, we'll see what the total is tonight, but my scales show 5 lbs. off!!! I really like this program. I feel like I am eating well and it is an easy plan to follow. Wow, the glasses gone, the weight gone, I'm going to be a new woman!! Ha!! or LOL as the myspacers say.
Mike was out of town overnight last night and I was thinking that it's really cool that we have been married almost 33 yrs and I still miss him when he's gone. I'm a pretty lucky woman. I hope and pray that will be true for my children when they reach this point in life. Right now my life is full of stuff life is made of. Life Happens. I thank God for my wonderful parents and the opportunity to help them in this new chapter of their life. I thank Him for a husband that continues to be the best friend that I so often need. I am thankful for a daughter and son-in-law that listen and obey the shepherd's voice and for a son and future daughter-in-law that are starting a new and exciting life together. And I am extra thankful for three handsome little boys that continue to light up this life in such a special way. Yea, life happens and it isn't always good but God has given me all I need and I am happy.

Tomorrow I get Lasik surgery. I'm nervous but excited too. I bought the coolest sunglasses today. Haven't been able to do that in years. I decided on a place to put my mom and dad while she rehabs from surgery. I feel good about that. I am making progress on Evan's scrapbook (his birthday quickly approaches). Painting is done and carpet is ordered for the house my parents moved from. Kerri and Mikey will be moving at almost the same time and with my luck, mom's surgery date will conveniently coincide with the moves. Whew, I'm tired just thinking about it but I am learning to cross bridges as I get there and that attitude seems to be helping. Things just work out if we let them.

This is what my world has looked like lately. Easter eggs, cute little boys, diamond rings and OSU vs. Michigan in my back yard. Tuesday dinners with the crew and even Jen and Kelli. Unfortunately I have been dealing with aging parents and everyday stress but I choose to concentrate on these snapshots of my life. I love my family, I love my life.

Tuesday has become my favorite day of the week. Every Tuesday, my daughter and my three gorgeous grandchildren come to visit. We just hang out. I don't think I will ever grow tired of watching the miracle of these little boys that God has chosen to place in my life. I hope they always know that I will always be there for them, cheering them on, on their journey. I hope and pray that they see God's love through me. Tonight I thank God for my family. The tragedy that we have all been watching unfold in Virginia once again reminds me how fragile life is. I have a husband that is my best friend, a daughter and son that I would die for, a son-in-law that loves my daughter in a very special way and three grandchildren that are my reason for living. We are very happy that our son has found that special person he has chosen to share his life with. She is a beautiful, loving young lady that we are very anxious to get to know better. What more could a woman ask for?

Easter morning

Lord prepare me to be a sanctuary
Pure and holy, tried and true.
With thanksgiving I'll be a living sanctuary for You.

It is You, Lord who came to save
the heart and soul of every man,
It is You Lord who knows my weakness,
who gives me strength with thine own hand.

Lead me on Lord, from temptation
Purify me from within.
Fill my heart with Your Holy Spirit
Take away all my sin

Lord prepare me to ba a sanctuary
Pure and holy, tried and true.
With thankwsgiving I'll be a living sanctuary for You.

My prayer this Easter morning.

I'm so glad to be home!! I can't believe the changes in the grass and trees in the short week I was gone. I came home to face a lot on my plate but that is life and life is good. I was able to run down to Grandview for a quick minute to see the beautiful Stetler family before they left for Canton. Watching the Bucks win another game and take one more step to the National Championship was so much fun. Watching Riley and Trey following the team brings back so many memories. I watched every game with my Mom and Dad while growing up and went to bed crying with every defeat. We are planning a big Pressley-Stetler game in a few weeks on our backyard court. Daddy, Deesy, Papa, Riley and Trey will go at it with an afternoon of hoops while Mommy, Evan, Nana, Nean and Doc-Doc cheer them on. Should be fun. I have a lot to do to finish Evan's first year book. His one-year b-day is sneaking up on us. It doesn't seem possible. Our little peanut is almost one!!

I watch as we all get older and I have this prayer:

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love? Did I point to You enough
to make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who blessed Your name unapologetically
and leave that kind of legacy.

Not well traveled, not well read, not well-to-do or well bred
just want to hear instead, "Well done good and faithful one..."

We had a very good week-end. It's that time of year - March Madness!! We had tickets for the games in Columbus. Some good, some bad, but still a fun time. On Friday, Kerri and Mikey were with us. Yesterday Kerri, Riley Michael and Mister Evan came along. Lots of fun. And of course THE game with THE shot made by Ron Lewis was almost more than we could stand as we huddled around the Stetler t.v. Almost more excitement than this old woman can stand. Unfortunately, along with March Madness, now comes market time. We now go to spring market in March. So this Thursday we will be headed for High Point N.C. Oh well, let's get another one over with.
It looks like my little ones are on the mend but I'm still not sure about my two Mikes. It is definitely time for spring!! They are still a little under the weather. Hope things get better this week, we've got a long few days ahead of us. HAPPY SPRING!!

It almost seems as if the older I get, the more questions left unanswered. The difference is, finding the answers just doesn't seem as important. Most of the questions we have, aren't that important. I was reminded of a song today that gives me all the important answers.

He is the Alpha and Omega
The Beginning and the End
The Son of God, the King of Kings
Lord of lords, He's Everything.
Messiah, Jehovah
The Prince of Peace is He.
The Son of Man, Seed of Abraham
Second Person in the Trinity.

Like I've said before. I'm a simple person. And for this simple person, that seems to say it all.
If all of this world should pass away, the love of God will always remain and I guess that's all I need to know.

My sister comes today. I'm looking forward to a good few days with her. Hopefully we can come to some concensus on my Dad's future.

I'm so thankful for the sun today. We made our beach reservations this week-end. Switching the trip up a little. Going to Topsail Beach; another nice quiet place for two weeks. Spring and summer WILL be here. You just gotta keep the faith.

Well, if anybody watched Dr. Phil today, you will know why I am apologizing for my whining. I thank God for my HEALTHY kids and grandkids. I just really needed to go on record with that today. Thanks God.

Prayers for my family today. EVERYBODY is sick. I hate this!! I just want everybody to be well. I went to Kerri's last night to help her get the boys to bed and when I walked in, there was Trey, on the couch with a fever so high you could see it and he was laying there with his Ninja Turtle mask on. Evan fell asleep holding the breathing machine by himself. It is soooo hard to see everybody sick. Kerri and Mikey are even sick. I know, I'm whining!! Hopefully it won't last much longer.
I can't believe tomorrow is March. I leave for market soon. YEA!! But, everyday brings us closer to warm weather. Hang in there!!

I found this poem and I was really moved by it. I thought I would pass it on. It shows such great depth and insight. I really relate to this.

Mother and Grandma

My mother feeds me tuna fish
with broccoli on the side.
But Grandma gives me candy
when my mouth is open wide.
My mother slices apples
and oranges for dessert.
My grandma brings me doughnuts
if she finds out I am hurt.

My mother makes me drink my (soy) milk
most every single night.
But Grandma gives me ice cream bars
when I do something right.
My mother cooks up rice and beans
that have an awful taste.
So I say, "See ya later,
I'm going to Grandma's place!"

Nothin' in the world like bein' a Nana!!

I needed to hear this today and I thought I would pass it on just in case someone else needed to hear it too.

"There is hope in the midst of hopelessness. Death is not where we lose; the onset of hopelessness is the great defeater. So allow hope to rise up within you. And when it seems that hopefulness is the least appropriate response in this situation, let it rise up even more. Whisper your hope when you lie down at night; scream your hope when you wake in the morning. Live your hope as if it is the one and only thing that sustains you in this revaged world. You will not be disappointed!" a godly man

In Christ alone my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song.
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand.

Back from the Dominican and enjoying the winter weather. Yea, I know, I'm crazy. But it won't last forever!! We had a great trip except for the airlines. USAir is on my poop list. We actually made a friend on the island. We are looking forward to staying in touch with him. He's a very hard working father of two with a wonderful spirit. The people there really captivated us. They are beautiful inside and out. I'm sure we will return. The resort was wonderful and we had such a good time with our friends.
I have been feeling a little out of touch with people lately. I contacted by e-mail an old friend and found out she had been feelling much the same. It will be agood to have her back in my life if only by e-mail. I'm going to make some pro-active attempts to surround myself with people a little more but sometimes it seems you can try and try and they just don't respond.
Riley and Trey stayed with us while Mommy and Daddy (and Evan) went to Mt. Vernon for a little get-away. Ninja Turtles became the theme for the visit. Have I said I love those little boys?!

This morning I am completely overwhelmed by the joy these three little guys, pictured on my blog bring to me. I could tell you how cute and smart they are but that's not what it's about. I am blown away by the blessing they are to my life. I can't think of them without smiling and crying at the same time. Some of you are thinking I'm really nuts but I am sure those people aren't grandparents. Grandchildren are truly one of God's greatest blessings. Someone once said, "Grandchildren are God's way of thanking you for not killing your teenager". You just can't understand the joy of being a grandparent til you are. I thank God this morning for this wonderful blessing.

Midnight moonlight shining through the curtain lace
Paints a perfect picture on your perfect face
One sweet angel sleeping in my arms
You are the promise I knew God would keep
You are the gift that makes my world complete

And you'll never know how much I love you
But I'll keep on telling you my whole life through
Now I believe in miracles, and you're the reason why
So dream on while I sing you my angel's lullaby.

A beautiful snowy day. Brunch with the family and then just hangin' out. Missed Mom and Dad. They didn't get out in the weather. But is was a good day. Actually and good week-end. We went to the 94th with friend Friday night and then saw a really exciting OSU basketball game last night. Mike is in Las Vegas this week for market and I will be busy getting ready for our vacation. Looks like it's going to be a cold one. Bundle up and have a good one.

A tough start to the new week. It never ceases to amaze me how life can give you such unsuspected turns. Sometimes having the best intentions just isn't enough. When someone is very important to you and you end up being the source of their disappointment, it makes you feel like a total failure. It might be totally out of your control but it doesn't make it feel any better. Another year begins with lots of uncertainty and nothing you can do but trust, leave it in God's hands and trust. It seems the older I get, the more I am called to live one day at a time. I know I say that repeatedly, but it truly seems to be my theme song.
When this day comes to a close, my Riley will be home. I have really missed him but it sounds like he had a really good time. He is such a big boy. It will be good to hear him tell me all about his trip to Florida. I love to hear him talk.
Less than three weeks and we will be leaving for the Dominican Republic. I hope Mike can really relax. It should be fun.

Prayers tonight for Luis's family, left trying to fill the void since he went to be with Jesus. It's been a year now and I am sure his mother still cries herself to sleep at night. The times I have seen her, she has been so brave with that beautiful smile on her face. But I will never be able to fully understand the pain in her heart and I am sure she is convinced it will never go away. I still ask "why" every time I think of that dear little boy. In your prayers tonight, whisper Joy's name and pray she may feel God's arms, knowing that one day she will see him again.

As I begin this new year, I am called by God to trust Him in a lot of circumstances. And that, I am determined to do. Because you see, when I have trusted Him in the past, I have found it to be the right thing to do. Actually, when I truly depend on Him I find myself getting excited about the unknown. What He has in store for us is always, always GOOD!! I have placed everybody I love and all the things I don't understand in His hands and I am excited about 2007. I pray I will be used in some of His answers.