Rock and Worship Roadshow 2012

WHAT A BLAST!!!

The Rock & Worship Roadshow! I've heard of these advertised on the Christian radio station I listen to (89.7 KSGN out of the Los Angeles area) and wondered what it would be like to attend one. I heard they were coming to San Diego. Now who can I talk into going with me? Heh-heh. I cannot remember if it was I that mentioned it first or my cousin. I looked up the info online. Tickets were ten bucks, whoo-hoo!!! We're going. Oh, but I worried about seating ......and my poor ears.
We arrived an hour or so early to get good seats. The wheelchair seating was actually rather good! =D Perfect view of the stage, not to close but not too far away (okay, it could have been a bit closer what with my poor distance vision, but I was plenty happy with where we sat =) I wore my 'RA' t-shirt and at least two people asked about it =D I did not even think about taking any pictures. RATS!

Moriah Peters
'I Choose Jesus", what a beautiful song! I cannot wait to hear more of her on the radio. I wish I could remember the other songs she played. She was the first to open the show and did an excellent job. I wasn't ready for her to get off of the stage!

Sidewalk Prophets ~ I am soooo totally a new fan! I loved every song that they sang. Each song seemed to be my hearts cry.
Love Me Anyway
Live Like That
Words I Would Say
You Can Have Me

Hawk Nelson
A few moments after he walked out on stage and the first thing to pop into my head was that he looked like Justin Beiber's twin. I couldn't belive my cousin actually said it out loud! I tried hard not to laugh, somewhat failing.(I'm even cracking up as I'm trying to type this).
Something immediately turned me off to him. Oh sure, his music was too loud for me to understand a single word, but it was the fact that he had "HAWK" in BIG capital letters sitting on the stage, flashing in white lights. Now I could see that at a secular concert, but at a Christian venue I would have rathered 'Jesus' up in flashing lights. After all, in't it His name we are lifting up?

Disciple
I could not understand a word of what they sang. Their music was too loud, EVEN with earlplugs. I thought they were just okay, but my cousing L<3ved them. Seeing her rock out made me smile, so I enjoyed them to a certain extent because of it. Miles McPhereson What the heck? He only spoke for five minutes. Oh sure, just when I was getting into it too! haha

If Jesus is really the man, you need to trust Him. Let Go.

(analogy of holding onto a rope over water)

This message had me squirming at some points. I went home and later looked up more of him online.

Lecrae
I should have known. The two artists I didnt care for, my cousin loved. I was happy. Lecrae wasnt my fave, but I did enjoy them somewhat. Actually, their song 'Background' sort of had me thinking.
Luke 12:15-21
I dont want to waste my life ~ I had a hard time keeping up with this song, they sung it so fast, haha! But it was a great message, considering the struggle I feel I am facing with where God wants me.
fanatic
"You cant celebrate the gifts without celebrating the Giver"

Rend Collective Experiment
I am totally a new fan! Just as Richard Andrew dropped the 'Experiment' shortly after I met him, I now believe RCE needs to do the same.
My favorite song I heard from them tonight was.....oh,... shoot,.... I couldn't decide!
Worship on Iphone ~ that was kind of cool!
You Are My Vision
Build Your Kingdom Here
Praise Like Fireworks

Mercy Me
I was exctatic to see MErcy Me in concert again. I think this woudl be the fourth or fifth time I had seen them. But by the time Mercy Me went up on stage to sing, I was ready to go home. I was sooooo looking rorward to hearing them too! I am hoping it was the fact that I was tired, but I normally really enjoy their music. I mean, I DO have four of their CD's! Their very last song was the best I thought, and it was their song 'Move'. They actually choreographed a dance on stage while playing their instruments. I was laughing.
I did not buy any music that night, but after hearing Rend Collective, really wished I had.

New Condo!

One week before this past Thanksgiving I was blessed to be able to move into a condominium (=thanks to my aunt and my parents =). We had been looking since it was decided I was moving back to So. Cal., and whilst unfortunately I did not find one in the same complex as my best friend (:'() (believe me, I tried), I did manage to find one relatively close.

The Remington (reminds me of a stuffed bear I had as a kid with the same name). I prayed for and low and behold got a tennis court, weightroom and swimming pool/hot tub. (Now if it would just warm up so that I could actually USE the pool! I can see it from my livingroom window, and its beckoning!)

The community college is relatively close to the condo, so we advertised for a PCA through the college. A few people were interviewed and found a young gal that I really liked as a live-in. We get along great, and have had fun together. There is a Denney's down the road and we've gone out to eat a few times. Sometimes just the two of us, or on occasion with her fiance' and his friend (we are a riot!). If for any reason I ever needed a back-up, there is another young gal who lives in the same complex who is willing to help when needed. There is even an RN who lives outside the complex but still close enough she could help out if need be. (thank You Lord!)

It's been great so far, the gal I hired as a live-in is also into horses, has a 2 year-old Jack Russel/Blue Heeler mix (named Miley), and goes to church near-by. Miley and Alehe tolerate eachother. On a very rare occasion you can catch them playing.

Lawn maintenance is going to love me - Ah yes, I have managed to tear up the grass with the powerchair on a few occassions now. I had to call home for assistance in getting me out those times too. It had rained, and the ground was extremely soft because of the rain. I did ge to meet a few of our neighbors, however, it was SO nto the way I wanted to be introduced, having to be rescued from the clutches of a soggy wet/muddy lawn. *SIGH*

Come visit me sometime! (pretty please!?)

The Rivers Edge

"There you found me on the bottom the forgotten and there the Angels came and surrounded all my problems, crying "Holy!" and singing "Jesus Reigns!"

I was going to visit my friend Richard Andrew at his church in Rancho Cucamonga, California. Ironically, its the same city where my dad grew up. It was a great way to sucker....um, talk my parents into going! Come to find out, it was closer to my dad's childhod home than we thought. We had talked about visiting for weeks, maybe even months I dunno, but something always happened....one of us was getting hurt and/or having surgery.
He sends me a message over FB about visiting his church as he is leading worship and sdoing all songs that he had written. I message him back saying I would work on it. His reply ~ "Cool! I'm gonna pray you guys in!" I decide to do the same.
A week ago we were finally able to fit it into our schedule, not the week we originally wanted, but a visit none-the-less. I sent him a message letting him know. The week was not going by fast enough! By Wednesday I wrote on his FB wall-"Is it Sunday yet?", he doing the same by Saturday afternoon, making me laugh. I wanted Saturday to be over in a hurry, but feared Sunday just might do the same if I wished it by too fast. I went to bed early (9PM) because with the 1 1/2 hour drive, I had to get up eaerly to be at service by 10AM, and with these headaches and nausea I have been waking up with for quite some time, I desperately wanted to avoid that Sunday morning as much as I could. Alas, try as I might I just couldn't sleep. I was too excited! I slept, but not that deep sleep that makes it seem like its been five minutes and it's really been a few hours. I felt like I slept for hours and it had only been about fifteen minutes! ARGH! I did this three or four times. Six-thirty came...Finally, Up-An'-At-'Em, I did NOT want to be late! U nfortunately it took me some time to get motivated, as I feared it would. THe headache attacked, btu I was determined it would not keep me from my mission.....worship with Richard Andrew and the folks at The Rivers Edge.
The drive up there took FOR-EV-ER! (my dad even joked about changing his mind about us going....I didn't laugh. THAT was cruel!) I musta looked at my watch every five to fifteen minutes on the drive up("Are we there yet?!") , and I did NOT want to be late!!! I was hoping to catch him before service started, letting him know I was here. I had wanted to sneak up on him and start singing the first line to his song 'Wave A Hand' ~ "Pardon me have we met before? You look familiar but I still can't tell for sure. Can't explain the similarities of what it is that makes ya look like me well....", but I swear he must have told people in his church I was coming because someone had spilled the beans as soon as I got in the door. Uh, well, as soon as I saw him my mind went blank, dang! I guess I was excited? lol! And so was he once he saw me! Ohmygoodness the whole time we talked before and after service he was like a little kid in a candy shop, all excited and animated!
Two things I regret not doing that night. I did not get a picture with MY camera phone (THANKYOU JODY for the picture!!!) and not sitting next to him in the service (but then again i DID tell him I was going to sit front row when he led worship.
He led three or four songs for worship at the very beginning....and I thought that was the end of worship! "WHAT?! Thats IT?! NOOOOOOOO, I didn't comne all this way for three songs!" Haha, my bad. After a few announcements and such, he was back on stage for the second set. Whew! And the second set was nothing short of annointed!
~'Take My Will'
~"None Compare'
~'Cry'n Holy'
Worship got done and I secretly hoped it would have lasted the entire service. I am a worshipper, what can I say?! \o/ I must have had my arms raised in worship the entire time. \o/ My arms are still feeling it!
The messsage. I thought I heard Pastor Debbie Hornsby say something near the end of announcements about preaching on tithing. My first thought was "Oh, great." A touchy subject for me being that I am on public assistance (SSI). Well, at least the worship was good, even if that was all God brought me up here for. Hahahaha, boy was I SO wrong! As it turns out that her husband, pastor Gary Hornsby, spoke on God's promises. I was abundantly blessed by that message. God was speaking to me SO much, I am sure I missed a lot of what was preached because my hand could not write fast enough. It was a bummer they didn't have sermon notes in their bulletin, so I improvised and used the back of an announcement sheet, and then ran out of room so I had to go searching for another piece of paper to write on....found a piece of paper in my Bible and ran out of room on that one too! LOL!!! As soon as the message is posted on their church website I will listen again and post here.
Richard came back on stage and picked up his guitar, started playing only to have a bit of background music for the pastor to close out the service. Dang! I was SO hoping he was going close us out in worship. :'( I couldn't leave without seeing Richard after service. When he asked me what I thought, I couldn't help a huge grin wiping across my face. This day was exactly what the Doctor ordered, and Richard said that he could sense it even during pastors message. Whoa, talk about a huge confirmation to what God was speaking...(I am almost crying while writing this sentence)!
At the end of the service I had another wonderful opportunity waiting for me. I had the pleasure of meeting one of Richards friends in person. See, he introduced us online. And there was a funny story behind the post that started our friendship. The three of us had our picture taken together (YES, I FINALLY have a picture with Richard!).
Mom and dad had a difficult tinme getting me out the door. I coulda hung out with Richard all day! Why couldn't God have put us closer together geographically?! Before I even left the building I got the brilliant idea (or was it God-given) to start praying about when the next time God would give us the opportunity to fellowship together again. As I was getting ready for bed that night, mom mentioned I might ask as a Christmas present to go back and se him at his church again. Uh, Lord????????

As far as that whole vening goes, dad says he cannot remember the last time he sasw me so happy..

Spirit West Coast Del Mar 2010

It all started with meeting Richard Andrew in Montana. I was invited to be one of his guests at his concert in Del Mar when I told him about my move back to So.Cal. Sadly, just before that I had fallen and broken a leg so I was still recuperating. I couldn't go. Nor could I find the finances in time to pull it off, and so I started saving for the following year with the hope that again Richard would be playing. I became a FaceBook fan of Spirit West Coast and wrote on their wall almost monthly begging for him to be there! I even wrote an e-mail to the main office (I assumed) and received a what I thought a promising reply. I prayed......and prayed....and begged and prayed.....alas it was not to be. :'( *Sniff* So instead, I went an bragged about he and his music to anyone and everyone I could; a t-shirt vendor, KSGN peeps, SWC volunteers. I think I actually got a volunteer interested in checking him out! :D our very last day (sad, didn't want it to end) as we were headed home, a young girl walkeed by my mother and high-fived her. For what reason we were a little unsure. But then again, maybe it was the 'ra' shirt mom wore. (I am getting one soon I hope)

We had our tickets months in advance, and I was busily counting down the days. I would check the SWC site at least once a month or more to check for the 2010 site. When it was finally up I read through the entire site. Tickets, artists, what to bring, activities, you name it. I continuously checked the site for updated information.

Here was our chosen concert line-up for the weeken. So amazing we got to see everyone we wanted. Parking was never an issue for me as there were plenty of spaces to accomodate my van and wheelchair lift.

FRIDAY

Jonny Diaz -
3:30pm
Air1 radio Main Stage
Opening for 'The Afters'.
Now, I did not stay for 'The Afters' as it was not a band I particularly cared for even though I did know the first song. Mom and I both thought Jonny Diaz was the best one of the opening night. His opening song, appropriately titled 'The Opening' was hilarious. Sadly, he only sang for at least half an hour. What a great guy, and funny! Saved his best song "Beautiful You" for last. His second best song that night I happened to like was a song titled "Sarah Jo", about being "God's little girl". I could kinda put myself into that song. After hearing his other music for the first time, we are definately die-hard Jonny Diaz fans now. All of his songs really spoke to me in some way. Later that day we just happened to be walking by the K-LOVE radio station booth and I noticed a crowd gathered. I moved my powerchair in a way to get a closer look. GASP! Jonny was there! Sadly I didnt have anything for him to sign but when I saw somone getting a picture with him I quickly jumped in line! Better than an autograph any day!!! I still can't get over getting my pic with him, and it was the only one that really turned out, Ha. When I arrived home that night I immediately found his fan page on FB and added him. I bought his CD.

Tenth Avenue North -
Air1 Main stage
6pm - 7pm
Brian Weaver opened for TAN and sadly he started before we got there (the program said a different time), only got to hear one song. Fave songs of TAN; Love Is Here, *By Your Side, The Truth is Who You Are, Times, You Are More, *This is Where Healing Begins, I'll Be By Your Side. Okay, so I had a hard time deciding which one I liked best,lol! I love watching bands have a lot of fun on stage, and they really looked as though they did enjoy what they do. It really makes the experience that much better.
One of the bandmembers shared a bit from his heart. The best quote ~ "The Christian life: not about competition, but celebration. Not about action, but reaction."
I bought their CD

SATURDAY

By this time I could pretty much find my way around the SWC site fairly well. Most of the concerts we wanted to see were between twor three stages. I didn't have to do too much asking for directions. Maps don't help me much, lol!

Philip Bardowell-
JC Muzk stage
Saturday afternoon 2:30pm
The JCMuzk stage was great. It was a stage mom liked the music best, and she really liked Philip. She was also able to lie on the grass in the sun and rest her back. Me I kicked back in the powerchair and soaked in the sun and the Son, listening. One afternoon while reclined in the powerchair a woman walks by and says to me, "Hey, cool chair!".

Sunday morning worship 10:30am.
Wow! Can that man worship!!! . Sunday mornign worship "Lord I'm Amazed By You" and "Let Me Be Your Servant Today" were great songs he sung.
Sunday Message- Reg Cox
It was good, really good. Dang I knew I should have taken notes! My mother did.

Mathew West -
Air1 radio Main Stage
4:45 - 5:35
So good! Definately one I loved every song he sung, too hard to pick a favorite! Another singer whose energy on stage and connection with teh crowd made iot an enjoyable experience. Bought all three of his CD's, I forgot how much I like his music. Tried to get his autograph/picture but line was too long by the time I got there :(
"All things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His good purpose." ~ word shared by Matthew West

Jars of Clay
Air1 radio Main stage
6:30 - 7:20
Some bands really need to learn to turn down the music and turn UP their mics! But I still enjoyed them to a point. Most of the bands in cluding this one really had such energy on stage making for an awesome concert. Fave song of the night - "Two Hands"

comedy concert with Thor Ramsey and Daren Streblow - I like Daren Streblow more. More original stuff where as Thor Ramsey just asked what everyones worst Christmas gift was and made jokes off of that. Oh yeah, Daren made a comment about not watching a lot of TV, and heard me cheer. I forget his comment now (drats) but I laughed.

Steven Curtis Chapman
Air1 Main stage
8pm - 10pm.
(YAY! Loved him since I was a kid!!!!!) Of all teh Christian artists I was most excioted to see SCC. Sadly, for some reason the show got started late and the speaker went first (not the way the schedule read). Mom was too tired by this point, I guess I was too. The whole reason for the ticket upgrade was to see Steven Curtis Chapman up close and we didnt even get to use it for its intended purpose. :'( So disappointed, but not holding it aganst mom. She was a trooper through the entire weekend.
I bought two of his CD's.

Somewhere between Saturday and Sunday and watching how much fun the artists seemed to have, a thought came to haunt me once again. Some time before starting college I had a desire to pursue music ministry. When Azusa Pacific University came to our church when I was in Jr. High, I guess thats when the thought entered my mind. At the time a family friend was traveling and singing in nursing homes, on cruise ships, and other places. But then I moved to Montana and everything changed. One of these days I'll get to singing in church again. I kinda miss it. Especially after this weekend.

SUNDAY

Shaun Groves- Shaun Groves opened up for Fransesca Batistelli. I really wished he would have been one of the main singers after hearing him. I was not ready for him to be done. "Welcome Home" is a great song!
Gets mixed up with ....oh shoot, I cannot remeber now. Buut I do remeber my first thought was "Great! I am not the only one!!!". I enjoyed him more than I thought I would. I knew more of his music than thought too. His seminar on the beauty of simplicity was interesting, and I was touched by the fact that he invited people to e-mail him about questions regarding the topic. I did not get a CD of his music, and now I am really REALLY bummed) He opened for Fransesca Batistelli.

Francesca Batistelli -
Air1 Main stage
2:00 - 3:15pm
I may have heard a song or two of hers before and didnt put the two together. One afternoon while looking at the SWC site for last year, I came across Fransesca on the artist line-up page and clicked on her name to hear a sample of her music. Fell instantly in love! Its hard to chose a favorite song of hers, they are all so awesome! She did sing two brand new songs however, and I loved them, "Don't Miss It" and my favorite of the two, " Angels By Your Side". This one made me cry. I bought her "Paper Heart' CD and I intend on getting her new song 'Angels By Your Side'.

Angel Smythe-
JC Muzk stage
5:30 - 6:30pm
Sunday afternoon concert on the grass. Sadly mom and i couldn't stay through the whole thing. Mom and I were pretty wiped out at this point and couldn't wsait to fall into bed, but we both thought she was great! her beautiful voice adn her energy opn stage and the way she drew the crowd in were what sold us to her music. I am keeping tabs on her from now on!

Of course all of the concerts were too short! Just when you really get into it and its the last song! Argh. No worries, I came home with a pile of CD's to listen to. I came home with something else too, a slight cough and sore throat. Guess I had too much "Woooo!" -ing going on. :)
Mom and I had 'Full Event' wristbands, of which I wore for days afterward! I did not want the weekend to end, and so I knew it was officially over if I cut it off!

Can't wait to do it all again!

Home Recuperating

Anesthesiologist - "Your gonna feel pretty shitty afterward. Now, I can say this because it IS a medical term." My mout drops, in my thirty-some odd years of goign uunder the knife, I don't EVER remember a doctor using that kind of language. I had to laugh!

Before my surgery I refused to allow myself to get nervous. Yes, even after all these years going under the knife still gives me the jitters. Instead, I am singing 'None Compare' as I am being wheeled into the O.R. I guess I was more nervous about afterward...the outcome, and all that it woudl entail once its been done. After surgery - for some strange reason I came out singing 'Wave a Hand".

I came thru surgery with flying colors. Absolutely NO problems wiht my heart like i usually do (stupid tahycardia). But this time it went perfect. Coming home the next day looked prett promising. Friday after surgery I felt on top of the world. Haha, until Saturday afternoon.....my digestive system decided to shut down for a day and a half :( . Talk about bloated UGH! Somebody quick, stick me with a needle, I wanna POP! I don't even wanna eat. Which they say it was better I didnt if I did not feel hungry.

My cousin sends me a text asking how I was doing, and so I tell her what's going on. Her reply to me --- "maybe you need mexican food to get it going again" (We eat a lot of mexican food in this household).
(My reply to her ---"thats gotta be better than the crap they got here!" I wouldnt even touch one of the dinners it looked so bad!!!)
She texts me a reply again and Jim (her husband)says "Order a chimichanga and two rasp. ice teas" LOL! (a little inside joke)

You never get sleep while in the hospital. Why, every two hours the darn nurses came to make sure I turned on my side to avoid the possibility of pressure sores. ( a few times I told them to "leave me alone, I just got comfortable!" Some came in at 5 a.m. to take blood (LAME!) But they like to have the results on the doctors desks before they come into work a few hours later. How are we patients suppoed to heal with lack of sleep anyway?! Hmmmmmm?

I am now home. The first couple of days weren't bad. But this week has been borderline agonizing as the swelling goes down. I have been feelign a lot more pain this week. Trying to stay away from pain meds as the could aggravate the digestive issue I was having earlier. But extra strength Tylenol seems to be doing the trick just fine :D

In the meantime, I am sick of watching t.v., sick of reading, borderline sick of being on the computer.....and I WANNA be with my KIDDO's!!!! This recuperating thing is taking WAAAAAY to long!!!!!!

I see the doc on Monday. For post-op appointment.

What A Day!!! :D

Wednesday was the frst morning in at least three weeks that I had been to JUMP Preschool. After so many times as a volunteeer to see if I liked it, they require a background check before you return. It could take weeks for this to go through (ugh!). The director said she would call me when this happened.
Weeks go by and I haven't heard anything, but I resist the urge to call. She said she would call me when everything was okay'd. One day last week I finally went with the urge and called her office. She was glad I finally called as she had erased the message on the answering machine that had my phone number. Besides, the background check came back a-okay after only one week. Was I ready to start that Wednesday? HECK YEAH!!!!!
Immediately upon my arrival into one of the classrooms one little boy rushed right over to me (kind of a hop/jog sorta) and gave me a great big bear hug! Three more children from another class also did the same. I was so glad that they remebered who I was!!!
There were only three two-year-olds in their class today. 2 of the two years olds were actually interested in me, and cracked me up! (The third being sick and sleeping on teh couch). One of the little girsl was blabbering away, abotu what you had no idea as you could not understadn a WORD of what she said!!! (Oh how i WISH I could!) And LAUGH!!! Oh I love hearing the laughter of children. I would laugh at what they did which made them laugh....which made ME laugh even harder! AT onbe poin you hear me saying "alright!" as I was LOVING teh interaction with them. Before you know it, I had a little copycat. "AWIIIGH!", two-year-olds version of "ALRIIIGHT!") And both of them would not stop smiling at me :D the entire time I was with them.
My mother, cousin and I are in a new biblestudy - Beth Moore's study on Esther, "It's Tough Being a Woman". We missed the first three weeks of it, but last night being our first and I was rivetted. I got sooooooo much out of it! I took notes like a mad woman, along with filling in the information in our workbooks. Afteward, i got to thinking, "If this is how its going to be every week, I am in for the ride of my life!!!" I LOVED it!

Deep Fried Turkey!

It was my first Thanksgiving with extended family in fifteen years, I was excited! Even more so Thanksgiving day. I couldn't wait to spend time with family. I was stuffed to the gills with lamb, mashed potatoes, Christmas salad (family tradition, yes, done at Christmas too), gumbo (My aunt and uncle lived in Louisiana for a while), green beans (bleh)... I'm sure I am forgetting something. I even went back for seconds - did I REALLY need to? HAHA (no), and yet STILL had a slice of pecan pie AND chiffon pumpkin pie! (oofdah!) Afterward we drew names for Christmas. In times past we have drawn names and bought a gift just for that person, this year and in years past we have exchanged Christmas ornaments. I am painting mine for my person this year. :)

The next day 2nd cousin Otis invited friends to his family's house for a Thanksgiving lunch/dinner. Sadly, none of his friends showed. He did invite his aunt and three-year-old cousin from is dads side who did make it. He had fashioned a deep fryer from an old outdoor heater. Forty-five minutes and we had deep fried turkey! YUM!!!!
Deep fried turkey, amazing!!!!! We stuffed ourselves yet again. And then snacked on leftovers all day.

Friday night cousins Tracy and Jim and I went to and outdoor ampitheatre @ Viejas casino to watch "Legend of the Ice Princess"
It was about a young fairy princess named Crystal who has magical powers bringing winter to the holiday season. Pyrotechnics, choreographed fountains, lasers, lights and special effects brought this story to life. It was good, although I thought it to be geared more toward younger audiences. Although, the last line in teh story stuck out to me which was
~ "Believe in yourself, and hold onto your dreams"

Afterward, we went nearby to teh iceskating rink and sat watching the three boys was rather entertaining. I know my cousin Tracy was laughing at 'em. I had a great time just watching them and knowing they were having a great time. I forgot how cold Alpine can be! Felt a little like Montana. Just a little.

Sermon - A Simple Thanksgiving

Dr. David Jeremiah – Shadow Mountain Community Church

Everything in my life is filtered through the loving hands of God
Humbled…or hardened?
Beauty in the simplest elements of life
When it’s dark enough, you see the stars
Consistency of God’s blessings dulls our attitude
2 Corinthians 11 – Apostle Paul, great teacher of gratitude
Giving thanks for our FAITH
2Cor. 9:15 – spontaneous praise; Ephesians 1:3
I know Jesus, therefore I am rich
The greatest thing God can do, bring me to Himself
Giving thanks for our FAMILY
2Timothy 1: 3, 5
One day you may wake up and realize the things you so desperately wanted are the things in which you already have
Giving thanks for your FRIENDS
Paul’s Epistles
Philippians 1:4 ; Romans 1:8 ; Ephesians 1:15, 16 ; Colossians 12:3, 4 ; 2Timothy 1:3 ; 1 Corinthians 1:4 ; Phil. 1:3 ; 1Thess. 1:2 ; 2Thess. 1:3
Giving thanks for our FINANCES
Phil. 4:10, 19 – 20 ; Psalm 68:19 ; Psalm 107:21 – 22
What is your perspective? (Book: Paradox of Choice – Why More is Less)
Giving thanks for our FUTURE
Col. 1:12 – 13
I have an incredible future; the BEST is yet to come!
Loss and pain open the door to gratitude

I think it Has God Written All Over it.

I know I posted this once already, but I realized I had left out a few details, so the original post might have been a bit confusing to some, if not all.

The past three years I have had PC&D's song 'Rollercoaster Ride of Life' in my mind. The title literally describes how life has been in that time.
I thought I had the job of my dreams just six months graduated from my second college degree. My very first day and a co-worker has an allergy attack to servicedog Alehe and is rushed to the ER(she does not take meds for it). I then started leaving Alehe at home while I went to work (she protested by eating ALL the popcorn off my Christmas tree that my roomies had spent three hours stringing and putting up. She had it down in lesst than two). Weeks later and I am in the ER myself with a nasty staph infection in my lower right leg. In the meantime I am searching for another job. Six months after my first staph infection...it hits again - same leg, but we catch it early. Same heavy medication through an IV instead of the nasty PICC line the threaded through my upper arm to my heaert (yeah, I nearly jumped off the table, it HURT!) Meanwhile I am still searching for work teaching young ones. Because I have a disabiltiy anbd use a wheelchair and because I have a servicedog that acompanies me everywhere I go......I am receiving every lame@ss (pardon me) excuse in the book as to why I am not hired.

God is up to something. It's what I have been hearing for months now. When I started going to church on Saturday nights it was because Sunday mornings I would hopefully be teaching Sunday school here pretty soon, and I have been now since November. The theme for our Saturday night service - "New Beginnings". Was God trying to tell me something?
Never did I think it would include my moving back to Southern California. I swore I would never leave..okay, wait. There are A LOT of things I swore I would never do...leaving California in the first place, teaching, teaching preschool. SHUTTING UP NOW!!! Lesson learned.
A few months ago I went to an outreach a friend of mine helped put together. She knew of a budding Christian artist and invited he and his band to come play, along with a few other budding singer/songwriters. His name is Richard Andrew. I enjoyed his music, though none of his songs spoke to me really. At one point he caught me grooving to one of his tunes (I didnt even know I was doing it!). I had been leaving short messages on his MS page about how much I loved his music. He left a message on mine one day about being thankful for newfound friendships. Then he gets a FB page and of course I had to add him. I am on FB much more than MS anyway. I shared with him one day about my pending move to CA and what I was feeling. He responded with---

Tryna... so sorry to hear about the many struggles you're facing with the pending move back to So. Cal. Sometimes the most difficult decisions are in perfect sync with God's will and plan, so be on the lookout for HIS work in the midst of this season of change you're facing. You will be in my prayers sis. When you get to So Cal be sure to let me know...that's my homebase. We'll hook up and see if the Lord might use me or someone I know to help with your transition (perhaps a job?) No matter what happens, Montana or California, my prayers are will you, and I'm here. "Help is on the way!" ~RA

His last line to me was a portion of lyrics to one of his somngs I listened to on his YouTube page and just happeened to put in a message to him about what spoke to me in that song. Since the decision was made that Iwould be moving back to California, NOW his songs are hitting me like they weren't before. A LOT of them! He wrote in his note about the possibility of God using him when I get there, i think God is already using him. And i hope/pray God keeps on using him.
When I first heard I was being moved back to Cali, I was distraught, trying to figure out where God was in this whole mess. I believed He had the power to change the situation. Instead of changing the situation, I believe He is changing ME! I am actually excited about starting a "New Beginning" so to speak. (Quick, somebody take my temperature!!) I didn't want to pray for peace about moving if that was His will. But again, I did it because I felt He was asking me to.
Growing up I had a dream of living in a beautiful, spacious place such as Montana. I saw my moving here fifteen years ago as a step toward that dream. We lived in Corvallis Montana on forty acres with horses, dogs, chickens, cattle (they weren't exactly ours but we rented to the owner who eventually gave us one calf in exchange for rent. THE first calf born on our property. Dad named him Norman....until we found out later it was a girl. Then it beame Norma, who eventually bore us a Norman). I said at one point if I never got that again it would be okay (I think I might of fibbed just a bit). I've been giving it to God, He can do with it what He wants.
A couple of nights ago I had an interesting dream. Now, lately I have been forgetting my dreams as soon as I wake. What I do remember never makes sense(stress dreams from what I've heard from a friend). I gave it to God. Anyway, this particular dream I COULD remember. And it was sweet! I remember receiving a gift from my parents (I think, its the only part I can't remember). It was a greenish blue butterfly clock to hang above the fireplace mantle, Only it was in large sections. When I awoke from the dream I had part of a song running through my head---

In Your time, in Your time
You make all things beautiful
In Your time....

My Trip to Seattle

Wow am I ever behind on posts lately. A lot has been happening and I guess my mind is a bit frazzled! Here's a partial update. More posts to come.

The primary reason we were in Seattle a while back was so that I could get a second opinion on some medical issues I have been dealing with for years, but have grown considerably worse in the past few months. It turned out to be a great thing seeing a specialist, and a bit emotional for some of us (mom). I was amused at the very beginning as we waited in a room after a medical test and the first words out of her mouth when she opened the door were, "Your (certain part of the human anatomy)'s crap. I have never had a docotr put it so bluntly before, I had to laugh.
Mom and I are extremely glad we went although now comes the hardest part, deciding if I want to do surgery or not. Physially, I am not in any danger if I decide to do nothing. but the surgery that would be done (as the test ruled out a few other options)is rather involved. The final outcome would be awesome for me, but the thought of going through surgery again.... :P (sticking tongue out)
Meanwhile, I am thinking.....and praying!

So after the appointment, I had a couple of extra days - to have fun! Mom and I ate at the Cheesecake Factory one night for dinner. The dinner was AWESOME! (I can't even remember what I had now, dangit!) Another nights dinner my brother took us to a restaraunt where they served 'Pho", pronounced 'Fuh'. Ohhhhhh was that ever gooooooooood! My tastebuds were doing the happy dance! Of course I ate way more than my stomach thought it could handle.

One afternoon we went on the 'Duck Tours' in Seattle. The 'Ducks' were hybrid vehicles (front end jeep, back end boat) that go on water AND land. It was neat to see where the t.v. show 'Cheers' was filmed. We also saw where they filmed "Sleepless in Seattle". The whole time we were on the tour the captain played themed music while giving the tour. It was great!

My brother attends Mars Hill church near his home. I had been there a few times when visiting and we went again this trip. The worship is simmiliar to CLC's worship. The pastor is great! He was preaching a series on Trial: 8 Witnesses from 1st and 2nd Peter. There was even a study guide. It was the first week of this new series and it really hit home for me. The stage was even made to look like the inside of a detectives office.

Joni and Friends Family Retreat

A few months ago an opportunity was presented in our Chi Alpha Missions minute. It happened to be Joni and Friends family retreats. I still can't get over the fact that I sat and wept through the entire presentation. But it seemed to me that I was meant to go. My mother and I were planning to attend the Annual 2008Spina bifida conference in Arizona. When the opportunity arose for attending Joni and Friends, mom suggested we go ahead and register for the retreat instead. After all, I hadn't had a vacation in a while it seemed.
We started making preparations for the retreat. In the meantime, time wasn't moving fast enough. As time passed, we hit snaffu's here and there. It wasn't very accessible. My parents went to the retreat site as it was only an hours drive from home. Not a problem. We could get around the accessibility issues. There were a few activities that I couldnt do, but we'd make do. In fact, there was plenty for me to do, so the ones I couldnt were not much of a big deal to me. Then, it was decided that since we were first timers at JAF we should go as campers. That's okay, I was still going with the same mindset; ministering to those around me. A short time later and the two women I was going with (besides mom) didn't get paperwork and finances finalized in time. She had sent them in way before I sent mine, however, they didnt receive hers before spaces were filled. Somehow they had received mine within plenty of time. Apparently I was meant to go.
The theme for the retreat this year was "Let's Do It!", a parody off of Philippians 4:13. It just happens to be my favorite verse of the entire bible!!! Another indication I was to be there? I think so. All this just a cawinkydink? I think NOT!

HIGHLGHTS FROM NOTES TAKEN
When I left for the retreat I thought I would regret bringing only one notebook tablet with me, I fully expected to come away with a lot more than I did. It was startling to me that I only came home with maybe less than three pages. Check out my Flickr page as I took tons of pictures.

7-24-08
This year Ichose to attend the Young Adult program (led by Marty and Veronica), even though I would probably be the oldest adult in the group besides the leaders. I was right. Bu I didn't mind. I thought the adult group would be talking abotu things that really didnt pertain to me at this point in my life.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM NOTES
He restores my soul - He gets me breathing again
In Jesus, every day is Christmas

The night session really did something for me. The first day and a half I wasn't into the retreat all that much. The activities in the YA group seemed a bit young to me and not much was speaking to me from either the speaker for the adults (which we got to hear part of before going to the YA group) Or the YA speakers. I was really hoping Joni would make an appearance sometime within the week, but that never happened. Although from what I heard, it has happened in times past. However, someone just as great (after all, this was Joni and Friends), who but Renee Bondi. She came, sang, gave her testimony, and story as to how she ended up as a quadriplegic due to falling out of bed. This was my favorite night I think. I even blew most of my cash with buying four of her CD's and her autobiography. My mother bought her book and finished it by the time we left the retreat, WOW! I'm only six chapters into it.

Okay, so I know i put highlights from notes up above, but The stuff Renee shared I just had to take notes as well.
-song "Be Not Afraid" really hit home for me. I've been fretting over what God has (or doesn't have) regarding my future
little ditty I'm sur eshe worte for this years theme -"Eyes, mouth, heart, hands, our construction zone (sung to row row row your boat)
*one pound ankle weights on her tummy as she breathes, to strengthen her abs for better breath control (pure genius!)
song from Phil 1:
-He who began a good work in you......
SOS - Sanctify, Organize, Surrender
Phil 4:8 - ...think on such things
(okay, I have to put this in here somewhere..., but as we were clapping for one of her songs, one camper shouts out "Jesus is the winner man!") RIGHT ON DUDE!!!
Thinking of my chair as my friend
changing heart, changing attitude
Lord, I surrender_________
Phillippians 4:7 transcends (goes through)
Give your frustrations to Jesus
song - Philippians 4:13
I CAN learn to be content
God will deliver me (Jesus, your my firm foundation)

Funny thing is, after this night, the rest of the retreat was amazing to me.

7-25-08
If I didnt have my disability, I probably wouldn't have Jesus
Phil. 4:6
Phil 4:12 - Contentment
1 Thess. 5:18 - God, change my heart about___________
Peter walking on water - Keep your eyes on Jesus
JOY - Jesus, Others, You

In the Young adult group, we got into small groups and had a discussion about our time today. What the topic was i suddenly blanked, but I know whatever we shared, Veronica wrote out a verse on a piece of paper, each one getting something different. I mentioned something about being uncertain about my future. She gives me Jeremiah 29:11 and Mathew 6:33 amazing to me!!!
Went on a balloon ride today. This was a ministry idea that a gentleman had. Pretty cool. All we did really was go up and then sit a while, and then come back down.But I think it was the height thing that really got the children excited. My mother did not go up. She stayed down and took at least twenty pictures of me being in there. I really wish now that I would have gotten pictures of what it was like from the balloon.
Alehe almost jumped in the lake several times. I learned you cannot let Alehe off leash around water, she'll make a bee-line for it! Another cute thing about Alehe was that at least five families took our picture while we were there. I beieve it was the first time a servicedog was at Joni and Friends.

After a day or two, Dalinda made the okay for me to be STM for next year! My mother and I theorized that it would be best for me to be teamed up with a more ambulatory individual. It turns out, there was a young girl with Down's Syndrome who absolutely adored Alehe, and had a fascination with people in wheelchairs. What a great way to reach her and her family. Her parents are great people, and really want me as their STM for their daughters sake.

I am already excited!!! How many days do I have left? 360.....-ish?

7-26-08
2Cor 1:3-7
Psalm139

Sermon on the Mount
Mat. 5:6-7
Wise man building his house on the Rock
( I thought of the dreams i have for the future and people's and situations attempts at destroying them.
Jesus is the foundation
Foundation work is s-l-o-w work
(Bible readiing, tithing, prayer, etc.)
The foolish man builds quickly and with shortcuts

CHECK OUT MY FLICKR PAGE TO SEE PHOTOS WE TOOK OF OUR TIME AT JONI AND FRIENDS.

Stoked!

Last year a friend of mine from Chi Alpha told me about a short term missions opportunity that she was going to do. She then tried to persuade me to do it myself. However, at the time, I didn't think there was a way for me to do it. Finances, things going on with my disability. I really didnt give it much thought. And so we just said...maybe next year.
Well, next year came around and more of the same. My mother and I were even thinking about checking out a spina bifida conference in Arizona. But then Chi Alpha came a few days later, low and behold our Missions Minute just happened to highlight Joni Earikson-Tada's Family Camp. When a video was shown about it, I wept through the entire thing. I think God was trying to tell me something. So at the break in Chi Alpha, I had to get more info. I really felt like this was something I was supposed to do.
I decided I would pray about it for a couple of days before mentioning it. My friend and her mom are going, so we thought it would be cool if we went mother/daugher style. My dad might be talked into going too. But speaking of praying about it beforehand, I think it was only three days before I brought it up that mom and I should do this instead. Besides, I found out later it was only an hour from where my parents live. It didn't take any convincing on my part at all. They thought it would be a great vacation as I haven't had one in a while. Only, I have a strange feeling it could turn into so much more.
So much more because of all the short term missions/ spring break XA trips I took while still a student. So much more because finding and keeping a job has been difficult, if not impossible. So much more because the past year or so has been phyically and emotionally trying. So much more because in seven days time I have had as many people tell me in so many words that they felt God is up to something.
In the meantime, since I had made the decision that I wanted to go, I have been praying almost daily for differnt aspects relating to the camp. Specifically for one instance in which we will be placed with a family and get to do all the different activities with for the duration of the five-day camp (us STM's go a day early for training). Just this morning as I was getting dressed God brought to mind a way to interact and connect by asking their sibling what it was like to have a sibling with a disability - since I have a brother who does not.
I will kill myself if I forget to bring a camera. You can bet there will be plenty of bloggiing about the trip afterwards. My friend and I are getting together tomorrow after church to talk about it.

God Moment III: God is up to Something

It’s been well over a month since I last posted a blog. Wow. With all that has happened, it seems like so much longer.

Looking back now, the proverbial roller coaster started in July, when I was let go from FC. Then the first staph infection hit. I think in the past year all four of us in my immediate family have been hospitalized for something.

Having a horrible time finding another job. I get a myriad of reasons why I am not hired;

JOBS has exhausted all options as far as work in the childcare field. Someone in my internship/job history went so far as to say I was a safety hazard. VR’s next suggestion was to look at secretarial jobs in the school system. Assessment TEN YEARS AGO says I do best with office work. Did I really do eleven years of schooling just to sit in an office? I don’t think so. They gave me the weekend to think about it and then get back to them. That Friday I went to the hospital to treat yet another staph infection. The second time in six months! This time we have no idea where it had gone in, as there was no visible entry wound. Hook me up to IV antibiotics (no PICC Line this time, whoohoo!) and watch the boredom for the next five days. Sick of reading, sick of watching t.v. Meanwhile VR is trying to reach me and we keep missing. Okay, so once I was afraid to pick up the phone because this whole situation is leaving my head spinning and really did not know what to tell people. But when I got out I sucked it up and called, explained why she hadn’t heard from me in almost a week.

VR and JOBS are closing my case (or at least putting it on hold for a few months to see what happens in the volunteer department). Meanwhile I break down crying in our Chi Alpha meeting’s prayer time. God, what ARE You doing?! Quiet times the next day or two really encouraged me.

Matthew 25: 14 - 30
Parable of the Talents
15To one he gave five talents of money, to another two talents, and to another one talent, each according to his ability.
20The man who had received the five talents brought the other five. 'Master,' he said, 'you entrusted me with five talents. See, I have gained five more.' 21"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'
2 Chronicles 20
Jehoshaphat Defeats Moab and Ammon
12 … For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you."
15 He said: "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's.

No sooner than I come home from the hospital the second time and things heat up at the XA Girls’ house.
Suddenly my house is no longer going to be run as it once was. (years ago they were really happy with the way things were going, telling me how much they really liked who was in charge of it). For a few days I didn’t even know if I wanted to be a part of it after that weekend.

Since the job hunt is going nowhere fast, and I am in the meantime going stir crazy because of it, I decided that I would take a different route; volunteering. One of my job prospects was for Easter Seals, and although they would not hire me as paid staff, they still really wanted me, even if it as just as a volunteer. I ‘m looking into that and they call me back a few weeks later. The teacher that I would have worked with had quit. They did not feel comfortable bringing in two newbies at the same time. They still want me, however, I have been put on hold. AUGH!

In the meantime, Since Head Start didn’t think I had enough experience to be hired when I applied, I recently put in a volunteer application and should be hearing from them hopefully soon. I may just give them a call this week myself. It was suggested a while ago that I volunteer at both places, that way I have a better chance at encountering open doors of opportunity should they arise. Now, I would kill to work at HS.

At church a week ago Sunday, our pastor started a series on “When You Don‘t Understand God‘s Plan”. Perfect for the past few weeks I’ve had. I am really into it. At en point in the service is a meet and greet time where we have a few minutes to find people we don’t know and introduce ourselves, talk to people we haven’t seen in a while, and chat over coffee and donuts (for me its tea and donuts). I talked with a woman whom always finds Alehe and I to see how we’re doing. I told her briefly of my situation and we prayed together. It was her comment to me after wards that really struck me. “God is up to something”. I had been trying to believe that because of all that was going on, God had to be doing something. Even if it was just drawing me closer to Him.

We Need a Miracle!

My house was listed as being for sale a few days ago. They'll be putting up a sign in a few more days. Financially, things are not going well for the owsners, my parents.

Dad built a spec house a few years ago in hopes of selling two years later. They recently canned the realestate agaent who listed it because the house was not getting enough interest. Houses aren't going very fast in the market right now anyay, but still, this was ridiculous.











Someday I hope to look back on this situation and see God's hand.


Now I think I'll go listen to some worship music to help put me in a better mood.

Artichoke

Live Search Images: Artichoke


Krysty, Rael, Amanda, and her mom were intrigued by my vegetable choice for tonights dinner. With my mother being in town, she has made a few meals in our kitchen. Tonight, I had what was left over from the other night(I can never seem to eat the whole thing!).

I grew up on artichokes basically. What you do is peel the leaves (the pointy thingies) off of the heart (the best part). Some people dip them in butter, but IM grew up dipping the ends in mayo and scraping the inside of the leaf with my teeth. Yum! Then, you scrape the inside of the heart (grasslike stuff, YUK) and slather the inside with mayo and pepper, Then eat the whole thing. Quite good.

The fun part is trying to get the leaves into the pot m,om sets aside. A lot of times, we tend to miss. Oops, what a mess!

Daughter Thinks of Others

NOW DEAR beloved Santa Claus, please listen to my prayer. If near my home on Christmas Eve, leave just one present there. It isn’t for myself I ask, but only for another; Please leave a handsome son-in-law…for Daddy and for Mother.

(Another one from the December Laughletter Newsletter)

Not Again

A few weeks ago (might have been months now, I can't remember) my mother had informed me that my dad's cousin was diagnosed as having stage four bone cancer. by the time they found it, it was already throughout his body and there was nothing they could do. They gave him at least three months to live. After some time, they sent him back to Hawaii where he and his family live.

I guess they brought him back to California for tests and treatment 'cause he spent time at mom and dad's. he did nothing but lay on the couch. Too tired and depressed to do anything.
I sent an email of encouragement to his addy, and prayed...daily, believing on God for a miracle if God so desired.

I just received this email, after I got off the phone with mom telling me he had passed. She was a few days late because it never seemed like the right time to tell me. Here's the e-mail.

Dear Friends and Family,

On Friday, December 15th, Kent left this world to move on to eternal life. We wanted all of you to know that your love, prayers, emails, calls and support really made a difference to us during this difficult time. Kent loved hearing from all of you and loved the fact that he was receiving prayers from all over this world. From the time Kent was told that he had cancer, he said he either wanted a miracle or wanted it to go fast. He was gifted with both! We all know how fast his journey was, but many of you may not know that he experienced almost no pain during his illness. This is very significant because we could feel the bone tumors in his arm and on his ribs and they were most definitely growing. The doctors told us that bone cancer was one of the most painful cancers and prescribed strong pain medicine, but he almost never used it. After returning to Hawaii on Thanksgiving, Kent remained at our house and was surrounded by family and friends. Each day, I would read him his cards and emails and play any phone messages. It meant a lot to him!

About two weeks ago, Kent stopped praying for his health miracle. He said that he was looking forward to joining our Heavenly Father. He said he’d had a very blessed life and was ready to go if it was God’s will. He died peacefully with his parents and the kids and I close by.

His burial wish is to be cremated and have the ashes scattered on the water off of Diamond Head. Ryan is on a Coast Guard Ice Cutter right now that is headed to Antarctica. It was very important to Kent that Ryan be present. We will be honoring his wishes next spring, but will also have a “Celebration of Life” for Kent this coming week. I have attached details for those of you that are local and would like to attend.

Thank you again for all of your love and support! You are all WONDERFUL!!! Lisa

I sent an e-mail of condolences to Lisa and the kids

Lisa and kids,
I received a phonecall from my mother today telling me about Kent's passing. It was just as when gramma died, the phone rang and when I heard mom on the other end, I hoped it wasnt what she had to tell me. I couldnt cry right them as I was in a bit of a state of shock. Why, I don't know. I guess this all seemed to happen so fast.... I was on my way into my bathroom after I hung up, and thats when the tears began to flow.
I remember a Christmas your family spent at our house one year, where I cant remember, might have been Teton Pass or Alpine. I believe it was Robyn as a baby (correct me if I am wrong) either Kent or Lisa was holding her and she (Robyn) wsas dressed in a Santa suit.
My favorite memory was of our Family Reunion in Colorado. The way he made sure I was able to do the activities, and making sure I was having a great time (oh boy was I!)
the one thing I regret not doing before he passed..
A while ago he sent me an invite to talk with him over the internet, a program I could download and talk with him using a microphone. A few weeks prior I had busted it while trying to get it off of the shelf in my closet. I still have yet to get a new one. :( Now, with Kent's passing, it pains me even more that I never got around to it.

I so wish I could be there next week for the memorial service, my thoughts and prayers will be with you on that day and time.

Much love,
Tryna

With God, ALL Things Are Possible ----UPDATE

So, in talking with my mother on the phone my mother had blessed me with more news abotu my dad and his pursuit of God once again. Dad would love to go to a Bible study if they could find one closer to home. Te one he has been atttending they drive 40 minutes both ways and it dioesnt get over until ten p.m. which is a bit late for dad (hes in bed by 8pm most days). Lately he was led the prayer at the dinnertable, something he has never done before. (wait, who are we talking about now? surely not dad! Oh yeah!!!). My dad has even expressed to my mother how he prays that his turning to God is for good this time.


With God All Things Are Possible I

"Life and It's Vicissitudes and It's Inclemencies"

So, wow! All these years of hearing my grandfather say this and I don't ever remember asking what the heck he meant by that. One of my roomates said something to me the other day and that saying popped into my head and out of my mouth. She asked me what it meant...and I had no idea. It's just something my grandpa said whenever someone got into a jam.
I jumped online that afternoon and went to dictionary.com to look up the two words, after having no such luck in my thesaurus.

vi·cis·si·tude ( P ) Pronunciation Key (v-ss-td, -tyd)n.
A change or variation.
The quality of being changeable; mutability.
One of the sudden or unexpected changes or shifts often encountered in one's life, activities, or surroundings. Often used in the plural. See Synonyms at difficulty.
[Latin vicissitd, from vicissim, in turn, probably from vics, pl. of *vix, change. See weik-2 in Indo-European Roots.]

inclemencies
Inclemency \In*clem"en*cy\, n.; pl. Inclemencies. [L. inclementia: cf. F. incl['e]mence.] 1. The state or quality of being inclement; want of clemency; want of mildness of temper; unmercifulness; severity.The inclemency of the late pope. --Bp. Hall.2. Physical severity or harshness (commonly in respect to the elements or weather); roughness; storminess; rigor; severe cold, wind, rain, or snow.The inclemencies of morning air. --Pope.The rude inclemency of wintry skies. --Cowper.Syn: Harshness; severity; cruelty; rigor; roughness; storminess; boisterousness.
in·clem·ent ( P ) Pronunciation Key (n-klmnt)adj.
Stormy: inclement weather.
Showing no clemency; unmerciful.

With God, ALL Things Are Possible

Saturday afternoon I had the most amazing most glorious conversation with my mother on the phone. I don't even know where to begin.

My dad wants to start going back to church. He was baptized many years ago (I swore it was my brothers I witnessed, but no, it was his. Sweet!). Dad was always a sporatic church goer if I remember correctly. His church was going to the swapmeet on Saturday and/or Sunday morning. Mom would go with him occassionally.

There was a church in Hamilton, Montana that we attended when we lived in Corvallis. Dad liked he pastor and played golf with him occasionally. The other churches he visited after moving back to California just didnt seem to meet his needs.

They started going to a different chuch not too long ago after movign once again. Mom told me on the phone that he and the pastor are going to get together sometime. I became excited. Well, they went to the swapmeet together on Saturday. Passing by some books, my dad noticed two and asks mom to buy them, that he would like to read through them. One of the titles..."The Power of Praying Together." I started to weep with joy, and by this time I have to hold my right hand with my left as to not drop the phone, but not after I picked my bottom jaw up off my lap.

I have prayed for mom and dad on occasion, For weeks I have felt the Spirits nudging to be praying for them on a mpore regular basis but just hzavent known what to pray for. I expressed this to God one night in my prayers. I had been prayong for them as far as their health lately. Mom has had surgery on a spinal disc and dad just recently had surgery on his shoulder again. But that's as far as it had gone. I briefly mentioned something about where my dad is spiritually. I didn't expect anything this fast. Part of me wanted to say "Gee I wonder how long this phase will last", but quickly stopped myself adn just believed God could do something this time 'round. Not too long after adn i felt the Spirit inside me"Even when all seemed lost, I ws still working".
So if I looked a little more animated in my worship this morning, you now know why.

With God, ALL things are possible