Reflecting the Sparks

Scripture Memory #24

2011-12-15T19:46:00.002-06:00

"I have set the LORD always before me.
Because he is at my right hand,
I will not be shaken."

Psalm 16:8 NIV

Scripture Memory #23

2011-12-15T19:46:00.000-06:00

"I say to myself, 'The Lord is everything I will ever need.' So I will put my hope in him."

Lamentations 3:24 NIRV

Scripture Memory #22

2011-11-26T14:40:00.000-06:00

He said, 'Don't be afraid, friend. Peace. Everything is going to be all right. Take courage. Be strong.' Daniel 10:19 MSG

Scripture Memory #21

2011-11-26T14:32:00.000-06:00

"Look to the LORD and His strength; seek His face always." 1 Chronicles 16:11 NIV

Scripture Memory #20

2011-10-15T21:51:00.000-05:00

"Maybe they will come to their senses. Maybe they will escape the devil's trap. He has taken them prisoner to do what he wanted." 2 Timothy 2:26 NIRV

Scripture Memory #19

2011-10-01T13:01:00.000-05:00

"He must gently teach those who oppose him. Maybe God will give a change of heart to those who are against you. That will lead them to know the truth." 2 Timothy 2:25 NIRV

Scripture Memory #18

2011-10-01T12:59:00.002-05:00

"Anyone who serves the LORD must not fight. Instead, he must be kind to everyone. He must be able to teach. He must not hold anything against anyone." 2 Timothy 2:24 NIRV

Scripture Memory #17

2011-10-01T12:58:00.002-05:00

"Don't have anything to do with arguing. It is dumb and foolish. You know it only leads to fights." 2 Timothy 2:23 NIRV

Scripture Memory #16

2011-10-01T12:57:00.000-05:00

"Run away from the evil things that young people long for. Try hard to do what is right. Have faith, love, and peace. Do these things together with those who call on the LORD from a pure heart." 2 Timothy 2:22 NIRV

Scripture Memory #15

2011-08-05T15:00:00.000-05:00

“But these things I plan won’t happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be patient! They will not be overdue a single day!” Habakkuk 2:3 (The Living Bible)

Scripture Memory #14

2011-08-05T14:59:00.000-05:00

“Wait on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the LORD!” Psalm 27:14

I'm behind...this is my verse for July 15th.

Scripture Memory #13

2011-07-04T09:52:00.003-05:00

Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid, just believe.”
Mark 5:36b NIV

Scripture Memory #12

2011-07-04T09:48:00.001-05:00

“Don’t panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you.”
Isaiah 41:10 (The Message)

Scripture Memory #11

2011-06-01T23:21:00.000-05:00

Psalm 94:19 (MSG)
When I was upset and beside myself, You calmed me down and cheered me up.

Scripture Memory #10

2011-05-17T16:20:00.000-05:00

"...for You, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek You!" Psalm 9:10b NIV

Scripture Memory #9

2011-05-17T16:19:00.000-05:00

“Rely on the Lord! Be strong and confident! Rely on the Lord!” Psalm 27:14 The NET Bible

Scripture Memory #8

2011-04-15T09:31:00.002-05:00

“Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” Matthew 6:34 (MSG)

Scripture Memory #7

2011-04-07T18:05:00.002-05:00

Deuteronomy 31:6 (The Message)

"Be strong. Take courage. Don't be intimidated. Don't give them a second thought because GOD, your God, is striding ahead of you. He's right there with you. He won't let you down; he won't leave you."

Scripture Memory #6

2011-03-31T21:32:00.002-05:00

When I am afraid I put my trust in you. Psalm 56:3 NIV

Scripture Memory #5

2011-03-01T21:53:00.001-06:00

In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and set me free. Psalm 118:5 NLT

When I am afraid I put my trust in you. Psalm 56:3 NIV

March on, my soul; be strong! Judges 5:21b NIV

Scripture Memory #4

2011-02-17T21:16:00.000-06:00

I can't choose between these two verses this time. I need both!

Psalm 62:8

Trust in Him at all times, [Shellye], pour out your heart to Him, for God is (your) refuge.

2 Thessalonians 3:13

And as for you, [Shellye], never tire of doing what is right.

Scripture Memory #3

2011-02-04T10:12:00.000-06:00

2 Chronicles 20:17 NIV

You will not have to  fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the  deliverance the LORD will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be  afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the  LORD will be with you. 

Scripture Memory #2

2011-01-26T20:40:00.000-06:00

Jeremiah 29:13-14a NIV

¹³ You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. ¹⁴ I will be found by you,” declares the LORD, “and will bring you back from captivity.

1-1-11 Happy New Year 2011

2011-01-01T21:52:00.001-06:00

Scripture Memory #1

2011-01-01T11:52:00.002-06:00

Jeremiah 29:11-12 NIV

¹¹For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ¹² Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.

Shellye's status was too long to post on fb so here it is:

2010-12-19T19:15:00.000-06:00

Shellye Sparks wrote to Sherry Sparks (David's mom) on facebook this morning: "is sad because you "like" that your son and I are single on fb. After twenty-five years of commitment, dedication, and faithfulness to David I would hope you and your son would be brokenhearted to see this relationship over. It definitely isn't God's best for our lives, but I know I have the only Biblical reason for it. My prayer is that God will turn all of our hearts to Him with 100% devotion as well as have our priorities in order according to God's standards. I'm also hoping and praying that you will be one of the people in David's life to help him see God's will for his life to set his feet on the straight and narrow path that God has for each of us."

Carol McCarty (Shellye's mom) said "Well said!!"

David responded "I believe we need to stop sharing our troubles with the world. But since you brought it up, let's speak the truth for a minute. Lets remind everyone that I also gave you many years of devotion and commitment and I helped raised two beautiful children. Lets also remind everyone that I went to four counselors for over a year with you & I tried numerous times to help you see my side as well. Lets also remind everyone that we are both Christians who are seeking God's will and that only God knows our hearts we cannot judge the thoughts or intents of any heart, so we need to stop trying. Right now all we both have to focus on is the future.a future in which we need to consider the best interests of our children and show them we both love them and that we can be civil on Facebook or anywhere else. They deserve that. So right now I vow to stop the war of words on Facebook and I pray that we would stop making our private lives public. Let's remember that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. It needs to end today. Please send only private messages from now on."

Carol McCarty said "I have to say Shellye didn't have affairs but you did!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Ask God to help your family make it with out the husband and father that you vowed before God that you'd be."

David then deleted my parents and me as his friend on fb.

Prom 2010

2010-03-28T09:29:00.005-05:00

I can't believe prom is behind us. Yesterday was a whirlwind day! Enjoy the pics.

Mauri's leaving the house to take pics at the pond.

Mauri's Senior Prom

2010-03-27T14:37:00.003-05:00

What a gorgeous day! I am so glad God has blessed us with such a beautiful spring day. Last year it was freezing and cloudy the entire day of prom, so today is so uplifting. I lovely sunny days!

I've had a blast going everywhere with Mauri Grace today.

  9:00     nails
11:00     hair
12:45     makeup
1:30     headed hom to rest for a couple of minutes

Mauri is absolutely beautiful! I've got to post a few pre-prom pics before we head out for pictures.

Mauri's leaving the house to get fixed up for prom.

Nails 4 U did Mauri's nails last year and this year.

Mrs. Sarah Alexander of Sarah's Hair Care has cut Mauri's hair since she was in 7th grade. She did an updo for Mauri's Junior Prom and did her hair today for her Senior Prom.

Ms. Nelda of Merle Norman at Benita's Florist did Mauri's make-up. That was a blessing because we didn't have an appointment but she worked us in. That was so kind of her. Mauri looks great!

Mauri is worn out already, bless her heart. She finally found a way to sleep on the couch without messing up her hair and make-up. I'll wake her in 10 minutes to get her in the dress and then she's on her way for picks at the admin bldg.'s pond in QC.

Today is FINALLY Here -- Houston Here I Come!

2010-01-22T10:02:00.000-06:00

Today is the day I've been waiting for since last March when Siesta Momma informed us of the Scripture Memory Seista Extravaganza! I'm so excited. A little anxious due to the 24 Scripture I want to quote tonight from memory. This will be all the Scripture I memorized for last year along with a 1500+ Seistas.

I'm going with Paula and Kristie. I will have so much fun. We're meeting up with my sister's family at the hotel so we can celebrate the weekend with Kimmy too.

I am looking forward to what God has in store for me tonight. Bring it on God! I'm ready to grow with YOU!

Shellye

Scripture Memory #1 - 2010

2010-01-16T10:51:00.002-06:00

John 13:7

Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."

sorry Kimmy...I'm late on this one

thanks Momma Siesta for this verse...I so needed what you blogged about today!

Our Clean Room

2010-01-02T22:38:00.016-06:00

Here is what David and I have worked on today. Our bedroom actually looks like a quaint little hotel room. I love our home.

Can you see how much David enjoyed cleaning our room? Pic #1 is his true countenance until he knew I was posting the pics so he changed his attitude instantly to Pic #2....Isn't he great? He had to bust a move on our home today. I'm still not up to par so he had to do most of the work. However, Praise the LORD, I was able to do more housework as well as fold tons of laundry. I'm so glad it is behind us never to pile up on us again...hehe!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T00:19:00.025-06:00

YAY! I made it to 2010. I'm looking forward to 2010 being a Jesus year. I'm glad I made it out of 2009 never to return to a lot of the lessons I learned. But willing to remember the lessons God taught me and brought me through in 2009. I don't ever want to have to learn those lessons over again.

All throughout today I want to focus on the future of what God desires for me. I really can't stand making resolutions that I will break by the end of the week if not by the end of the day, so I'll focus on goals for my life. God lead me to some great blogs yesterday that have helped me focus on some goals for now and my future. I think they'll help me clearly define what God desires for me this year.

1. Get healthier than I am today. I am not going to set a goal of how much weight I will lose because it hasn't worked my entire life so I'm not going there. However, I am going to live a healthier lifestyle. I was thinking about surprising David with the goal of walking with him so many times per week this year, but that was thrown out when I fell on November 18th and am not healed yet. I'll be healed in God's time and will start when I've been given the go ahead from my physical therapist and doctors. Due to PT yesterday, I have a few strengthening exercises which have already helped my leg so much in just one day. Praise the LORD! Actually this is more activity than I've done in months sad to say. Also, I'm going to make better choices in my eating. I know I will NOT eat the healthiest but I can do better and I will. We'll continue to buy better choices in groceries too.

2. Finish reading the Bible in its entirety. I began this last year. The NIV version that is in chronological order. I made it through pretty much faithfully until midway through July when my world began spinning out of control. I've picked it back up from time to time. I even tried to get myself to complete it or at least the New Testament over the holidays but I just couldn't due to the amount as well as my disappointment in myself because I didn't complete something I know God would have been pleased. Therefore, I'm glad I have a new year to complete what I began last year. I am going to start where I stopped and read it through until I accomplish reading the Bible through in its entirety. I've never done it but I am going to now.

3. Blog more. After all our struggles last year I just couldn't blog the way I wanted because everything was filtered through my pain and hurts. Now after the fog has lifted and God has provided growth in me yet once again, I'm ready to move on to blog about our family. It is so awesome to go through different things that I did blog about last year to see where my heart was and how I've grown through things. Also, it's incredible to see our lives in review. Furthermore, I'm excited to watch Mauri complete her senior year and Caleb begin driving. I have plenty to blog about and now I'm ready to move on to blog our lives to keep a record of our goings on.

4. Clean more and organize our home. I don't know why but I feel I'll never get a handle on these two things. It is always a work in progress. This past year our family has done much better at cleaning but we have so much further to go. I especially love a clean house but our home has never seem to keep itself clean. Of all things, we have to do the work and none of the four within this home ever seems to be enthusiastic about housework. My mother has always told me it isn't fun for anyone so just get up and get it done. I've got to consume myself with her advice this year; I must grow up, face the music, and do something every day! I actually do have a good excuse at this point in my life due to my injury and limitations which is driving me nuts as well as my poor family. But, I think God is truly using this time (only 43 days so far) to really show me the desire of my heart to keep things in an orderly fashion. So I hope and pray that God does a miraculous thing in my life and make me the housekeeper of our home as soon as I'm cleared for duty by my doc.

5. Become a better cook as well as cook more often. I want to continue to improve on how often we eat at home because it truly has been a blessing and has brought our fam closer together due to the time we spend together at mealtime. I also want to try to add more variety in our selections of choice. We get in a rut and just keeping cooking the same 'o same 'o. My problem with cooking is the cleaning that comes after because we are notorious for not cleaning immediatley.

6. Immerse my mind, body, and soul in the Word as well as in our home.

This was a goal of mine last year as well. I did Scripture memory with my siestas and have 24 selections of Scripture God gave me throughout 2009 which I'm still committing to complete memory without taking a peek while quoting. God did a wonderful work in me. He continually gave me Scripture for the moment as well as for future areas I'd go through during the entire year. I'm so glad I took the challenge not truly believing I'd finish it. I'm grateful God brought me through this year with more memory verses than ever before. I'm looking forward to the Beth Moore weekend at the end of January.

This past Thanksgiving I learned about a Jesus tree from a blog. (I love blogging!) We began our Jesus tree on December 1st and ended on Christmas night. It was hard to put that tree away until next year because the four of us learned so much by sharing our hearts each evening. I must admit we did miss a couple of nights but most the time the kids would remind us or have us do a make up session sometime througout the next day. I know we all grew closer to our LORD and Savior during this season. Jesus is the reason for the season and the Jesus tree helped us keep our focus on Him each and ever day during the CHRISTmas season this year. (Sidebar: Mauri won't be here next year for our Jesus tree if the Lord continues to send her off to college. But, we'll talk and share each night on the phone. We already talked about her having her own Jesus tree with her roommate next Christmas season.)

One thing my Christian counselor brought me through during November and December was "Who I am in Christ". It took me a while but I finally downloaded everything from my head to my heart and I know who I am in Christ which makes all the difference in the world for my life. She also helped me be delivered from the spirit of fear and the spirit of rejection. Now I don't filter everything that happens in my life nor every thought I have through fear nor rejection. Talk about a life of freedom. I'm not the same person I was before meeting her on October 20, 2009. "Who I am in Christ" is going to be what our family does each night during our "Jesus Time" the next 40 days or so. I'm going to type an outline per se today and begin this tonight with our family. This outline will have the Scripture reference only because I believe it is good for everyone to dig in the Scripture and read the Word for him/herself, the belief, and lines to journal what he/she believes the belief is saying. I might also add a box to check off when the belief is truly downloaded to the person's heart and a place for the date and time. This is what I did to truly become a believer of who I am in Christ and I want to share it with my family and eventually as God provides with friends, co-workers, and our church family.
I'm going to type out the 24 Scriptures God gave me last year and post them throughout our home. I'm also hoping our family will begin sharing Scripture God is pointing out to them at a particular time in their lives. I think this will help all of us be immersed in God's word and help us learn how to share God's Word with others.

7. and for the hardest of them all but trusting God to bring it to completion... getting rid of the spirit of judging, condemning, and criticizing.

I have a lot of work to do to align myself with God's desires for me as a Christian woman, a wife, a mom, a teacher, etc. I must allow God to work a miracle in my life in many areas this year. I'm sure one reason I haven't gotten completion in these goals in the past is that I have not because I ask not. I know God will answer my prayers and bring to fruition the desires of my heart if they and when they are aligned with Him. I must do God's work and I desire to continue growing beyond measure for Him and Him alone.

one year ago today ... I started my blog

2009-12-31T23:55:00.004-06:00

The first resolution for the new year is to truly blog at least once per week in order to see the growth God has brought me through the entire year of 2010.

Scripture Memory #24

2009-12-15T21:28:00.002-06:00

Psalm 18:20-24 The Message

GOD made my life complete when I placed all the pieces before Him. When I got my act together, He gave me a fresh start. Now I'm alert to GOD's ways; I don't take God for granted. Every day I review the ways He works; I try not to miss anything. I feel put back together, and I'm watching my step. GOD rewrote the text of my life when I opened the book of my heart to His eyes.

Scripture Memory #23

2009-12-02T19:33:00.000-06:00

Romans 4:20-21
New International Reader's Version

[I] keep believing in God's promise. [I] am becoming strong in [my] faith. [I] give glory to God. [I am] absolutely sure that God has the power to do what He has promised.

Scripture Memory #22

2009-11-15T10:41:00.003-06:00

Matthew 9:22 (The Message)

Then He [Jesus] reassured her: "Courage, daughter. You took a risk of faith, and now you're well." The woman was well from then on.

Scripture Memory #21

2009-11-01T11:37:00.003-06:00

James 4:10 (The Message)

7-10 So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he'll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it's the only way you'll get on your feet.

Scripture Memory #20

2009-10-31T08:58:00.001-05:00

Job 11:15-16 NIV

15 then you will lift up your face without shame; you will stand firm and without fear.
16 You will surely forget your trouble, recalling it only as waters gone by.

Scripture Memory #19

2009-10-31T08:53:00.002-05:00

2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT

He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we can give them the same comfort God has given us.

This is a repeat from #17 because I need it and haven't committed it to memory!

Scripture Memory #18

2009-09-15T21:56:00.002-05:00

Philippians 4:8 NIV

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things.

Scripture Memory #17

2009-09-15T21:55:00.003-05:00

2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT

He comforts us in all our trouble so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled we can give them the same comfort God has given us.

Scripture Memory #16

2009-08-16T21:15:00.001-05:00

Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Scripture Memory #14 and #15

2009-08-04T18:13:00.004-05:00

Scripture Memory #15

Isaiah 50:10 NIV

Who among you fears the LORD
and obeys the word of his servant?
Let him who walks in the dark,
who has no light,
trust in the name of the LORD
and rely on his God.

Scripture Memory #14

Isaiah 26:12 NIV

LORD, you establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished you have done for us.

Scripture Memory #13

2009-07-02T12:29:00.001-05:00

Mark 9:24

Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, "LORD, I believe; help my unbelief."

What a Weekend!

2009-06-15T22:09:00.002-05:00

What a whirlwind of a weekend. We left Thursday at 6 PM to head to Illinois. We spent the night about 5 hours away. Then, drove the rest of the way on Friday. We arrived in Paris about 4 PM.

Mauri took the ACT in Terre Haute, IN on Saturday morning. She found out that they are an hour ahead of Illinois time so she had to be at the ACT at 7 AM not 8 AM. We were exhausted. She felt good about the test. I am so proud of her. Dad and mom took us to Indiana State University where she tested. Mom and I went to pick her up at 1:00 Illinois time and the anniversary celebration began at 2:00. They had a great turn out. I am proud of their 50th Wedding Anniversary. I've never known a couple make it 50 years. What an accomplishment!

Sunday we checked out of our hotel by 10 and headed to the Ford's house. We had lunch and visited until 2. We headed home shortly after and drove 7 hours to Forest City, AR. We spent the night in a very spa-like Hampton Inn. We left at 8:30 AM this morning to take the last stretch of our trip. Kim and Eric's family had to head home so they had 3 more hours after we arrived home.

Kimmy and Eric changed cars with mom and dad so we could take Mauri to see Ouachita Baptist University...Kimmy's alma mater. We got to mom and dad's about 1:00. We ate pizza, visited, and then headed home. We finally made it home around 3. Tonight, I went to my summer Bible study at 6:30. Mauri, Caleb and I ate at Amigo Juans. Mauri and I are home while Caleb went to spend the night with a friend. What a busy and different day. I was summonsed to jury duty but PRAISE THE LORD I do not have to report. I'm exhausted. I think it's time for bed.

Scripture Memory #12

2009-06-15T22:05:00.002-05:00

Psalm 19:14 KJV

Let the words of my mouth,
and the meditation of my heart,
be acceptable in thy sight,
O LORD, my strength,
and my redeemer.

I started my summer Bible study tonight at New Hope Baptist Church in Bloomburg. It is called Me, Myself, and Lies by Jennifer Rothschild. I think this is exactly what God wants me in this summer. It happens to be the same Bible study Beth Moore is doing with the siestas so I am pumped. God revealed so much to me tonight and it was only the intro. I am expecting great things from my Lord and Savior. Clean out my closets Heavenly Father.

What a Special Day in the Life of Our Family!

2009-06-04T13:42:00.007-05:00

Today brings many incredible memories! Mauri turned 17 this morning at 9:55 AM. I am so proud of her. She is celebrating with friends this afternoon and then with the fam on Saturday.

Caleb is graduating 8th grade! YEAHHHHHHHH! I'm so glad this day has come. He graduates tonight at 7:00 PM. Caleb has overcome so many hurtles in his life. I am incredibly proud of him and all his accomplishments. This closes the book on many hardships and issues he has overcome. They are finally and totally completely 100% behind him.

Tomorrow is a new day. Praise the LORD! My baby will be a freshman. I hope he continually has hope in his future. His future is so bright and the beginning of high school gives him another opening to his future. His outlook is better than ever before. He is becoming a man. God is in control and we know that but more importantly Caleb knows that. He is focusing on his studies more than ever before. He's kept all A's and with only 5 B's his entire 8th grade year (2 - 88's and 3 89's). All of the rest of his grades were in the A range! :) He has signed up for a Distinguished Diploma as his goal for High School. At this time in his life, he still wants to be a video programmer or something to do with technology. I am so grateful for endings and beginnings. I am extactic that the last four years of schooling are completely behind him.

I am sorry the entire family can't attend his 8th grade certificate ceremony. My dad is ill with kidney stones and dehydration and might have to be hospitalized. My sister is at the Scrapbookers' National Convention in Dallas with some girlfriends. My mother-in-law has bronchitius. My sister-in-law is ill her lupus troubles. My brother is having to entertain big wigs who are visiting his district. I am so glad David, Mauri, and I will be in attendance. It's his big day and I don't want to take anything away from his day.

Scripture Memory #11

2009-06-01T17:39:00.002-05:00

1 Chronicles 28:9
And you, my son Solomon (Caleb), acknowledge the God of your father, and serve Him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever.

I'm "taking" this Scripture from my sister. It was her verse to memorize a few months ago. She said dad told her about this. I'm going to pray this over each of my children as well as myself.

Mauri placed 5th in feature writing :)

2009-05-26T08:13:00.008-05:00

Welch hall where it will all happen on Monday! (Sunday night)

Monday morning rarin' to go...about to go to the coaches meeting at 11:15 AM

She's placed...enough said.

Mauri is nervously waiting. There were at least 350+ people in the awards assembly. I think she was more nervous getting in front of everyone than actually preforming at state!

5th place in 2A conference ... Mauri Sparks of Queen City

Mauri's at State - and we're with her!

2009-05-25T10:39:00.003-05:00

Today is Memorial Day! Happy Memorial Day! I truly appreciate all the men and women who have fought for my freedom. Also, I am grateful for all who keep us safe each and every day. Something I take for granted all too often.

We are staying at the Radison Town Lake in Austin right on the river. We have the best view ever. We can see the bridge where 1000's come to see the bats take flight each evening. It was awesome to see last night. Caleb took a couple of great videos of the bat flight. There are suppose to be about 3 million who take flight each evening. I have no idea how they have that count but it's out there.

This morning I've been amazed by the Capital of Texas Triathlon right outside our window. Our view is perfect. We are on the fourth floor. On our bridge is the running portion across the river to the 2nd bridge which is on our right is the bicycling portion of the triathlon and in between the two bridges is the swimming portion. I've never even seen a triathlon except on TV. It is definitely inspiring. Maybe I'll finally try to get healthy and in shape over the summer. It will have to be a lifestyle change that lasts a lifetime.

On Saturday we drove to Tyler to shop and eat with my sister's family. We were able to spend the night with them and go to worship with them on Sunday morning. We ate a quick bite and headed to Austin. We arrived in Austin last night around 6:00. It took us an hour or so to actually find the registration for UIL. UT is huge. They need to put signs outside each and every bldg to make it easier on people when trying to locate something at UT.

Mauri is out her state compotition right now. David (her sponsor/coach today) and Mauri have a meeting at 11:15 AM. She'll preform first in Editorial Writing at noon. Second event is at 12:00 PM in Feature Writing. It lasts 2 hours.

Scripture Memory #10

2009-05-15T22:52:00.003-05:00

Philipians 4:9 ESV
What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me - practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT
He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we can give them the same comfort God has given us.

Scripture Memory #9

2009-05-01T23:54:00.000-05:00

Isaiah 41:13 NIV
For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you.

Psalm 4:8 NIV
I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.

John 14:27 NIV
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Let not your heart be troubled and do not be afraid.

Easter 2009

2009-04-16T19:00:00.011-05:00

The Sparks' Family - happily smiling together ... so much better than years past when poor Caleb was oh...let's say from birth 'til 7 years...Caleb would scream his head off for any picture just as my nephew, Ethan, below who is 31 months decided to do for the first time ever.

The entire McCarty clan...Grammy - my mom, Pawpaw - my dad, my sister's family...Kimmy, Eric, Even, Ethan, my brother, Kevin with his good friend, Duke --- the only one missing is my mother-in-law and my sister-in-law who weren't able to go out of town for Easter this year.

My sister's family: husband, Eric, 10 year old son, Even, and Ethan, 31 months.

all of the SPARKS for Easter

Scripture Memory #8

2009-04-15T18:09:00.000-05:00

1 Thessalonians 4:9-12 MSG

Regarding life together and getting along with each other, you don't need me to tell you what to do. You're God-taught in these matters. Just love one another! You're already good at it; your friends all over the province of Macedonia are the evidence. Keep it up; get better and better at it. Stay calm; mind your own business; do your own job. You've heard all this from us before, but a reminder never hurts. We want you living in a way that will command the respect of outsiders, not lying around sponging off your friends.

2009-04-07T21:13:00.001-05:00

Hawk Nelson's lead singer singing to our group of teen's who went with us to the concert. There is a boy with an orange/black/white baseball cap on - that's our pastor's son...Mauri is to his left the one with a pony tail (the third one to his left).

The highlight of their night. :)

Jeremy Camp

wrappin' up a grand weekend

2009-04-07T20:37:00.004-05:00

Last weekend so flew by...way too fast. Mauri went to a teen girl's retreat at Green Acres Baptist in Tyler, Texas by SAGE ministries. She had a great time. They left at 4:00 PM on Friday and returned around 9:00 PM Saturday. Then she had to be at church at 7:30 AM to practice for a sticks routine with Arise My Love. They did a great job. We went to early church to watch their performance, Sunday School, and left around 11:00 to eat lunch.

The crew (20 people: 5 adults and 15 students) left on the bus around 12:45 PM. We arrived at Centurytel Center at 2:10 PM, stood in line for 2 1/2 hours before the doors opened at 4:40 ish. We actually got to attend The Rock and Worship Roadshow Tour with Mercy Me, Jeremy Camp, Hawk Nelson, Tenth Avenue North, and a new group called Sidewalk Prophets. Addison Road was suppose to be there but the lead singer went into labor two days before our concert so I guess they had a good excuse to miss. That is why the new band came in their place. The concert was suppose to start at 6:00 but started at 5:40 instead. That was awesome. It wasn't over until 9:15. It was only a $10.00 concert. That was incredible for such an awesome concert. I had a great time and I think the kids had an even greater time. I am in awe at how God continually speaks to me no matter where I go and what event I attend. This was so good for me.

The coolest part for the kids attending with us is when the lead singer of Hawk Nelson came to the floor, walked across 7 rows of seats, and sang to our kiddos. That was amazing. David got it on camera and Tim, our pastor's youngest son, got in on video using his camera. Hopefully, after Caleb works on the video with Tim, I'll be able to post it on the blog.

Caleb had the math TAKS test today. He was pretty nervous. He doesn't think he did well, but he hasn't on all of the practice math TAKS tests this year. So I'm hopeful and prayed up that God helped in pass the math TAKS for 8th grade. He has to pass all TAKS test to promote to high school, so he is nervous about the testing. He already passed the reading TAKS and was commended with only missing two. Praise the Lord! He only has social studies and science TAKS left for this year.

We got Mauri's prom pics from the lady last night who took her pics downtown in Texarkana. That was great. I so enjoy looking at them. She is such a beautiful girl inside and out.

Mauri and Caleb both had friends over last night. Tonight though not at all -- too much homework. Mauri is working on her English IV research paper due Thursday night. Caleb has chapter 8 of his 8th grade English paper due tomorrow so he's been writing or editing his favorite education, a poem to about vacations, as well as had to locate and print out pics from his favorite vacation. He also has his 2nd presidents paper due next week so he had to work on that with dad tonight too. He also had to correct a science paper. I think they are both a little overwhelmed with classwork tonight to say the least.

I guess I've got my update complete now.

more Scripture --- it's so hard to just choose one

2009-04-01T21:41:00.004-05:00

Isaiah 41:13 NIV
For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you.

Isaiah 49:16 NIV
See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.

Proverbs 24:3
A house is built by wisdom and becomes strong through good sense.

Philipians 4:9 ESV
What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me - practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT
He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we can give them the same comfort God has given us.

Jeremiah 32:7 KJV
Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there anything too hard for me?

Colossians 1:17 NIV
He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.

Ephesians 3:14-19 NLT
When I think of all this, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

1 Peter 4:12-13 NIV
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.

Psalm 121:5-6
The Lord watches over you - The Lord is your shade at your right hand. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.

Psalms 51:10-12 HCSB
God, create a clean heart for me and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not banish me from Your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me, Restore the joy of Your Salvation to me, and give me a willing spirit.

Isaiah 41:9b-10
I said, You are my servant; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

John 14:27 NIV
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Let not your heart be troubled and do not be afraid.

Galatians 6:11 NIV
See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand!

Psalm 70:1 NLT
Please, God, rescue me! Come quickly, LORD, and help me.

1 Thessalonians 4:9-12 MSG
Regarding life together and getting along with each other, you don't need me to tell you what to do. You're God-taught in these matters. Just love one another! You're already good at it; your friends all over the province of Macedonia are the evidence. Keep it up; get better and better at it. Stay calm; mind your own business; do your own job. You've heard all this from us before, but a reminder never hurts. We want you living in a way that will command the respect of outsiders, not lying around sponging off your friends.

John 8:31-32 MSG
Then Jesus turned to the Jews who had claimed to believe in him. "If you stick with this, living out what I tell you, you are my disciples for sure. Then you will experience for yourselves the truth, and the truth will free you."

Romans 15:13 HCSB
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Zephaniah 3:17-18 MSG
Jerusalem will be told: "Don't be afraid. Dear Zion, don't despair. Your God is present among you, a strong Warrior there to save you. Happy to have you back, he'll calm you with his love and delight you with his songs. "The accumulated sorrows of your exile will dissipate. I, your God, will get rid of them for you. You've carried those burdens long enough. At the same time, I'll get rid of all those who've made your life miserable. I'll heal the maimed; I'll bring home the homeless. In the very countries where they were hated they will be venerated. On Judgment Day I'll bring you back home—a great family gathering! You'll be famous and honored all over the world. You'll see it with your own eyes—all those painful partings turned into reunions!" God's Promise.

1 Corinthians 6:12 MSG
Just because something is technically legal doesn't mean that it's spiritually appropriate. If I went around doing whatever I thought I could get by with, I'd be a slave to my whims.

Acts 24:16 NIV
So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.

Psalm 4:8 NIV
I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.

Hebrews 12:1-17 MSG
Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!
In this all-out match against sin, others have suffered far worse than you, to say nothing of what Jesus went through—all that bloodshed! So don't feel sorry for yourselves. Or have you forgotten how good parents treat children, and that God regards you as his children?

My dear child, don't shrug off God's discipline, but don't be crushed by it either. It's the child he loves that he disciplines; the child he embraces, he also corrects. God is educating you; that's why you must never drop out. He's treating you as dear children. This trouble you're in isn't punishment; it's training, the normal experience of children. Only irresponsible parents leave children to fend for themselves. Would you prefer an irresponsible God? We respect our own parents for training and not spoiling us, so why not embrace God's training so we can truly live? While we were children, our parents did what seemed best to them. But God is doing what is best for us, training us to live God's holy best. At the time, discipline isn't much fun. It always feels like it's going against the grain. Later, of course, it pays off handsomely, for it's the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God.
So don't sit around on your hands! No more dragging your feet! Clear the path for long-distance runners so no one will trip and fall, so no one will step in a hole and sprain an ankle. Help each other out. And run for it!
Work at getting along with each other and with God. Otherwise you'll never get so much as a glimpse of God. Make sure no one gets left out of God's generosity. Keep a sharp eye out for weeds of bitter discontent. A thistle or two gone to seed can ruin a whole garden in no time. Watch out for the Esau syndrome: trading away God's lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite. You well know how Esau later regretted that impulsive act and wanted God's blessing—but by then it was too late, tears or no tears.

1 Peter 5:6-11 MSG
So be content with who you are, and don't put on airs. God's strong hand is on you; he'll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.
He Gets the Last Word
Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.

Philippians 4:4 MSG
Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you're on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the Master is about to arrive. He could show up any minute!

1 Chronicles 28:9
And you, my son Solomon (Caleb), acknowledge the God of your father, and serve Him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever.

American Idol - David Cook

2009-04-01T21:29:00.005-05:00

I haven't ever really kept up with American Idol since Mandisa days. It has definitely been a long time since that season. But, tonight I was halfway listening to it with David while selecting my 7th memory verse for 2009 when David Cook came on...and oh my goodness. His latest release is so my theme song for my husband.

Artist: David Cook
Song: Come Back To Me

You say you gotta go and find yourself
You say that you're becoming someone else
Don't recognize the face in the mirror
Looking back at you

You say you're leavin
As you look away
I know theres really nothin left to say
Just know i'm here
Whenever you need me
I'll wait for you

So i'll let you go
I'll set you free
And when you see what you need to see
When you find you come back to me

Take your time i wont go anywhere
Picture you with the wind in your hair
I'll keep your things right where you left them
I'll be here for you

Oh and i'll let you go
I'll set you free
And when you see what you need to see
When you find you come back to me

And i hope you find everything that you need
I'll be right here waiting to see
You find you come back to me

I can't get close if your not there
I can't get inside if theres no soul to bear
I can't fix you i can't save you
Its something you have to do

So i'll let you go
I'll set you free
And when you see what you need to see
When you find you come back to me
Come back to me

So i'll let you go
I'll set you free
And when you see what you need to see
When you find you come back to me

And i hope you find everything that you need
I'll be right here waiting to see
You find you come back to me

When you find you come back to me
When you find you come back to me
When you find you come back to me

This is exactly what I've been needing to say to David, but I didn't have the words to say. I am so grateful God allowed me to hear this song. Even though David isn't "truly" leaving I think he has in many aspects. He's just not the man I've known for the last 25 years. I know he has to do all that he is doing to "find" himself. I just pray when he has found himself, he'll still want to be right here with us and finally comfortable in our home once again.

I also think this is a song God has sung to me throughout my life. God lets us go and He is waiting with open arms to hold us and state we've been inscribed in the palm of HIS hands all along. I am in awe of how God has allowed this secular song to speak to me and ease my heart from so much pain. God has also allowed Angie from Bring the Rain blog at http://audreycaroline.blogspot.com/2009/03/canvas.html to speak to me today with her "Canvas" post. I love how God continually speaks to me and how He is overflowing me with blessings at this time.

Scripture Memory #7

2009-04-01T21:26:00.002-05:00

Isaiah 43:18-19 NIRV

Forget the things that happened in the past. Do not keep on thinking about them. I am about to do something new. It is beginning to happen even now. Don't you see it coming? I am going to make a way for you to go through the desert. I will make streams of water in the dry and empty land.

Thank you God for leading to this verse. I need it more than ever before.

the last few moments before friends must part

2009-03-30T22:14:00.008-05:00

Growing into the best of friends over seven short days

around 3:45AM right before Matt had to leave to wake up his parents to head to the airport --- heading back to the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs

Mauri, Matt, Jessica around 1 AM

Mauri, Matt, Jesse, Jessica, Caleb, and Tim around 2 AM before a couple of the guys have to be at home
Mauri, Macy, Jessica, Matthew Confair, Matt Rose
the week after spring break when Rose was in from the Air Force Academy

Prom 2009 - we stopped by for a few minutes - prom pics

2009-03-30T21:43:00.012-05:00

Jessica, Caleb, and Mauri

Mauri and Caleb

Jessica and Caleb

Megan

Tianna
Mauri's best friend, Paige, and Jared

Prom 2009 - after dinner they stopped by the house

2009-03-30T21:24:00.006-05:00

Prom 2009 - Mauri's preps

2009-03-30T21:14:00.007-05:00

Prom 2009 - dinner at Zapata's

2009-03-30T20:28:00.007-05:00

Prom 2009 - before dinner lots of pics

2009-03-30T19:31:00.023-05:00

Ryan, Jessica, Mauri, and Jesse at a downtown park in the middle of downtown Texarkana

Can you believe it was going to be 30 degrees Saturday night? That's crazy. It was so cold. Poor girls would freeze for pics then quickly put on their coats to wait for the next pic.

Mauri and Jessica, best of friends, ready for a night of fun.

downtown Texarkana for pics before dinner

My beautiful daughter with her model pose...can you tell how bad the wind is blowing in this pic?

OK...so I didn't want Mauri to forget a single thing for her prom so I had them take a goofy pic in the bathroom.

Prom 2009 - They're on their way!

2009-03-29T16:50:00.003-05:00

Prom 2009 - Mauri picking up her date

2009-03-29T16:22:00.011-05:00

Mauri's date, Jesse, placing her wrist corsage.

Mauri's putting on the boutineer

ok...count down is on

2009-03-26T15:23:00.002-05:00

I only have 1 hour left. I must get busy. In the middle of my cleaning I came across all my memory books from our senior year and our wedding. I enjoyed this trip down memory lane. I'm glad God planned it that way. I spent an hour rummaging through our memory books. I don't think I've done that since we moved in this house a little under 5 years ago.

kitchen done
2 bathrooms done
hall done
living room and front --- almost I must hurry
and then to the dreaded bedroom...but I must get it all done today

Thank you Lord for this wonderful 1st day of my spring break DO OVER. :)

2009-03-26T12:20:00.005-05:00

Last night our Youth Minister, Dustin Byrd, served up a helping of spiritual food. I know God was using him to speak to me. It was about getting and keeping your priorities straight. There were four main points:

1. focus on your Father
2. focus on your family
3. focus on your faith
4. focus on your fruit

This last year has probably been the hardest year of our marriage. I can't let go of the idea of David being gone from home so often. He is also on a health kick and has been since last summer. David has made many lifestyle changes the past year while I've taken a back seat. I truly do NOT like this position. I am a control freak. He has totally pulled the rug from underneath me. I've been in this pit for so long and am sick of it. As David is bettering himself, I'm letting go and falling deeper and deeper away from him. He looks great. He has lost 55-60 pounds. If he isn't teaching, going to college 2 hours away from home Friday PM until Saturday PM, studying for college, teaching a college course, taking his online class, leading music for a church every other Sunday, spending time with Mauri and Caleb, drinking water, eating healthy, or exercising he is sleeping I guess. All the while, I sit by and watch, wondering why in the world I don't get up off my duff and do something. I'm not talking about physically doing something all though that would do me a world of good I'm sure I'm just not willing at this time. I mean spiritually doing something. I need to get up, dust myself off, continue tending to the children, teaching, but also spend much more time in the WORD. I do my daily devotion and I am reading through the Bible this year, but I need more!

God is definitely up to something big in my life during my spring break DO OVER! I never clean...hate to clean...never do laundry...hate laundry...hardly ever cook...don't like to clean after I cook. David has done so much for so long that he has finally taken his life back into his own hands doing his own thing. I don't blame him. I do blame me. So today on my first day of spring break DO OVER I'm blogging a lot [this is my 3rd post for the day ;)] and cleaning my home before my sweet hubby gets home. He has no idea I am off today. He knows I am tomorrow to go to the conference but he doesn't have a clue about today. Therefore, I have four more hours before he gets home from teaching and working out with Caleb this afternoon. I truly think he might faint when he arrives. I can't wait to see how much I finish before he gets home.

Right now all the windows are open and fresh air is blowing throughout our house. It is smelling so much better. While I type the birds are singing and God is melting my heart for David. I am so glad. I definitely need to give up, give in, and get over my bitterness of being left behind and not just being happy with the way life was...David is happier than he's ever been and I'm as miserable as I have ever been. Therefore, I'm grateful for the work God is doing in my life right now at this very moment today.

I thought I'd just sit a type for a moment about last night's message but look where God just took me. Isn't God great!

Also, one more thing - I watched Wednesday's with Beth last night. Her message was very fitting for me right now as well. To God be the GLORY!

Excite the Flame
Six points:
1. Exalt (my relationship with Him above all else)
2. Expose (expose myself to people who are using their gifts for HIM) 2 Timothy 1:18 (refresh my soul - Omnipherous refreshed Paul)
3. Experience (truly and powerfully - extraordinary gift from God --- experience a whole lot of things in Christ to see if the Spirit of God is going use it)
4. Excel (be good in your gift - let God be great)
5. Exhale (rest - take the Sabbath)
6. Exit (know when it is time to exit from what God has you doing into the next journey or opportunity)

Whew - I had know idea what God was about to do to me by just sitting down, shutting up, and typing out what I thought was a little snippet into my life. Thank you God.

I'm so glad the kitchen is clean now to the bathrooms. It's smelling better in my home already.

Caleb

2009-03-26T09:07:00.003-05:00

We received wonderful news about Caleb this week. He not only passed the TAKS reading test, but he was commended. He only missed two questions on the entire test. I am so proud of him.

I spoke to his reading teacher via e-mail and she said the following about Caleb: "He did an awesome job. He only missed two questions. I am very proud of him,too! He does not allow his dyslexia to stand in the way of what he can do. Wished I had more like Caleb."

Isn't that awesome! Caleb has come through so much in his lifetime. He truly has overcome his dyslexia just as I did. However, he got to do it while going through school and a good 10 years earlier than I did in my life. I can't wait to see what God has in store for Caleb throughout his lifetime. I know there are reasons Caleb went through so many storms in his life as well as struggled with dyslexia. I wished he didn't have to go through these times, but I know I serve an awesome KING who knows the reasons why. I'll get to find out one day - more than likely not during my lifetime but in eternity.

my spring break - DO OVER

2009-03-26T08:34:00.005-05:00

Well today is what I'm calling my official spring break -- due to being ill all of my spring break from the first afternoon we let out of school until the 2nd day back after spring break. I declare the next four days my wonderful spring break.

Thursday - clean the entire house and get all the laundry caught up

Friday and Saturday - Women of Faith leaving at 8:15 AM F and returning at 3 PM S

Saturday - Mauri's prom

I am so excited for her. I hope she has a fantastic time. She is definitely excited about David and me being out of the picture from tomorrow until Saturday afternoon. She is so independent and I wouldn't want it any other way.

Mauri has a band concert in Princeton, Texas today near Dallas. She'll arrive back home around 7:00 PM. She'll quickly shower. Then, try on everything for the prom. I must know before I leave tomorrow she has everything she needs for Saturday. Tomorrow, she is out of school because she'll be in 4 writing events at UIL in Texarkana. Then, around 5 PM a teacher will pick up the juniors to arrive at MUMS to decorate for the prom. The junior class puts on the junior/senior prom. Who knows how late she’ll work, but I’m sure they won’t be leaving until it is complete.

Mauri’s Saturday schedule is as follows:
9:00 nails
11:00 shower
12:00 hair
2:00 make-up and get dressed
3:15 leave to pick up Jesse
4:15 pictures downtown Texarkana
5:30 dinner at Zipada’s
8:00 prom
Midnight home – Mauri wants to go to I-HOP but I just don’t feel good about all the kids going back to Texarkana.

Sunday worship my Heavenly Father

I think this is going to be the best spring break ever because I get to be in the WORD for three entire days being immersed in God's glory and basking in His peace. God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good.

I love sunshine!

2009-03-19T11:20:00.002-05:00

I was so looking forward to Spring Break, BUT I came down with the flu on Friday. It has been a long week of sickness, and I am tired of being sick. The flu part is behind me but the exhaustion, sinus, cough, etc. is staying on for the long haul. Mom has been sick with the flu and now the "leftovers" since last Wednesday. My precious Mauri got the flu Tuesday while on the Mission Trip. Praise the Lord she is home now sleeping. I pray her round is short lived. It is no fun being sick ever but especially on your Spring Break. God has blessed us with a beautiful week. Last week was dreary and rainy all week long. This week has been absolutely gorgeous. I love the sunshine. It just makes me happier lifting my spirit.

I have got to get well immediately. My house needs my attention. I want it clean but for some reason it doesn't do it on its own. To bad I'm not wealthy enough to have a maid. I realized last night while talking to a friend it would be smart to have someone come clean once per week because I'd be in such a frinzy my house would stay clean all the time. If someone is coming to the house, it must be spotless. Therefore, hire a maid and the problem's solved ... right? Don't I wish.

Shellye

2009-03-15T13:36:00.000-05:00

My precious God given family!

2009-03-15T13:35:00.000-05:00

A group pic of the eighth grade inductees.

2009-03-15T13:34:00.000-05:00

2009-03-15T13:19:00.003-05:00

Caleb is breathing a sigh of relief because he is finished!

a lot has happened in a week

2009-03-15T12:46:00.004-05:00

Man this week has flown by:

Tuesday: Caleb was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society. We are so proud of him. It was such an amazing moment to see Caleb on stage seeming to enjoy himself. (I'll post a pic in a few.)

Tuesday night: Mauri no longer has a prom date. Her choice started liking a friend of Mauri's who also already had a date about a week after he chose his tux which was about 3 or 4 weeks ago. Finally, he had the girl he likes ask Mauri to go with this girl's date. Mauri agreed to let him go to the prom with the girl he liked and told this new couple she'd find a ticket for the guy who was left without a date.

Wednesday: Mauri spoke to the young man who no longer had a date. He told Mauri he didn't care/didn't know if he went with her or went stag because a bunch of his friends are going stag too. I felt this young man would enjoy hanging out with all the guy friends who didn't have dates either than to go with Mauri. So Mauri quickly found this sophomore a ticket and began looking for a new date.

She spoke to the one she truly wants to go to the prom with, but he doesn't attend QCHS and is somewhat shy. He didn't feel comfortable attending since he didn't know any of her friends. I feel Mauri understands how he feels. Therefore, she asked the guy who she told she'd take last summer. He said he'd love to go with her, BUT he has a track meet. He doesn't go to her high school either and cannot miss the meet.

Thursday: I think it has finally hit Mauri; she might be stag. She has realized she wants a date and cannot come up with a solution. We prayed.

Friday: 1/2 day of school YEAH! bad part: I got the flu -- by 7:00 PM I had a 103.9 temp. I was miserable to say the least. But, Praise the Lord, Mauri called to tell me she has a date for the prom. God sure worked fast. :) The only problem was 30 minutes after getting a prom date the guy who was let go from his date so she could go to the prom with Mauri's first date texted her to see if she had a date. HUGE DILEMMA. Mauri told him she had. He said his parents wouldn't let him go without a date. Mauri felt horrible. It had been 3 entire days before he let her know, so I'm guessing he must have just informed his parents Friday night. I prayed as much as I could for the situation.

Saturday: Mauri got ready to leave for the Spring Break Mission Trip to Houston. I was concerned for her because the girl who is now going with Mauri's original date to the prom will be attending with her. She is quite upset with Mauri due to the girl saying Mauri gave her her word she would take her dropped date. Mauri gave her her word she'd find him a ticket to the prom. Especially after Mauri spoke with the boy and he wasn't interested in going with Mauri. Praise God -- while Mauri was at the church preparing to leave the boy without a date and the original boy who was going with Mauri to the prom and the girl who is now going with Mauri's first date arrived at the church together. Apparently, the 1st boy talked with the dropped boy's parents and they might let him go to the prom alone since a lot of his friends are going alone.

I know this seems like a lot of mumbo jumbo but I know who these kids are and I want to record it without their names being on here. This way I have a record of how things took place so I can watch how God's hand is constantly at work through my kids' lives as well.

Scripture Memory #6

2009-03-15T12:42:00.001-05:00

Exodus 9:16 NIV
But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you My power and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth.

Exodus 14:14 NIV
The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.

Matthew 10:27 NIV
What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs.

Scripture Memory #5

2009-03-01T19:40:00.000-06:00

Malachi 3:16 NIV

Then those who feared the LORD talked with each other, and the LORD listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the LORD and honored his name.

Hebrews 10:35-36 NIV

So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.

Scripture Memory #4

2009-02-15T19:46:00.001-06:00

Psalm 91:14-16 (The Message)

"If you'll hold on to me for dear life," says God,
"I'll get you out of any trouble.
I'll give you the best of care if you'll only get to know and trust me.
Call me and I'll answer, be at your side in bad times;
I'll rescue you, then throw you a party.
I'll give you a long life, give you a long drink of salvation!"

Scripture Memory #3

2009-02-02T16:29:00.002-06:00

Ephesians 4:23-24 (The Message)

But that's no life for you. You learned Christ! My assumption is that you have paid careful attention to him, been well instructed in the truth precisely as we have it in Jesus. Since, then, we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything—and I do mean everything—connected with that old way of life has to go. It's rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And then take on an entirely new way of life—a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you.

This is actually the two verses before my last Scripture memory verses for the last two weeks. I was looking at all the Scripture listed on the LPM blog and found this one. I didn't even realize this was connected to the Scripture I just memorized. I am in awe of God all the time.

Have a blessed day in Christ,

Shellye

Second Scripture Memorized

2009-01-31T10:38:00.008-06:00

I did it. Praise the LORD! I've memorized my challenging Scripture in one week. God is good; all the time! :) I am amazed at the Scripture He gave me and how much it has already helped me. Also, God has already used my first Scripture for the year many times in the last 30 days. I've also been able to use Isaiah 26:4 to lift up a brother in Christ.

It is amazing to see baby Harper (www.kellyskornerblog.com), just 2 precious weeks old, doing so well. God has allowed her life to impress His love and miracle within me as well. I am in awe at how God is using an infant to draw so many to Himself. There have even been some come to know Christ for the very first time. Praise you Jesus! Baby Harper is now in a regular hospital room at the Children's Hospital in Tulsa. Thank you LORD for bringing her into my life via the Internet.

David is in Commerce for the 2nd weekend in a row...only 13 more to go for his doctorate studies (for this semester). Caleb is snoozing, and Mauri is at a UIL event in White House on the other side of Tyler. Caleb is only sleeping due to him being awake when Mauri and I got up at 4:45 AM. He was not happy when he had to get off his game, but when I went to check on him 10 minutes later he was already sound asleep. He has his bass lesson at 2:30 today. He is getting so good on it. I can't wait to see what God has in store for him in this area of his life. I am so glad God has blessed their lives and are musically talented. Mauri sings in the youth praise band, and I think Caleb is beginning to desire being a part of it through playing the bass. I am in awe at how God is allowing them to get in front of others to worship Him while leading others to worship Him too. I never stood in front of a crowd ... too shy and frozen. I didn't even want to go on stage to pick up my diplomas. ;)

Have a great day in Christ,

Shellye

Scripture Memory #2

2009-01-24T00:17:00.003-06:00

Ephesians 4:25-32 (The Message)

25 What this adds up to, then, is this: no more lies, no more pretense. Tell your neighbor the truth. In Christ's body we're all connected to each other, after all. When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself.

26-27 Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry—but don't use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don't stay angry. Don't go to bed angry. Don't give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life.

28 Did you use to make ends meet by stealing? Well, no more! Get an honest job so that you can help others who can't work.

29 Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift.

30 Don't grieve God. Don't break his heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for himself. Don't take such a gift for granted.

31-32 Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.

I think I've challenged myself a bit with my Scripture Memory #2 for the year. The first memory verse for the year is Isaiah 26:4 . "You keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is kept on you because he trusts in You." I love this verse. I needed this verse for the beginning of 2009.

I need the verses of Scripture found in Ephesians 4:25-32 too. I think I have a mental block. I like to memorize Scripture from NKJV. BUT, I think I'm going to change and memorize these 7 verses from Ephesians 4 from The Message. It just is easier for me to totally understand the verses. I best get busy I think today is the 24th and I must have it memorized by the 30th so I'm going to work on it throughout this day.

Shellye

P.S. Mauri and I did go tot he doctor again at 4 PM. She now has an upper respiratory infection and I have tonsillitis. Dear LORD... we are ready to be healed and back among the living and going. ;)

I'm home again

2009-01-23T07:51:00.000-06:00

Well, I guess I'm resting until Monday. I know I need it when I sleep an extra 10 hours in a day. Mauri is worse today. She seems to have added a cough and a lot of sinus mess. So we'll both being seeing a doctor today. I am so looking forward to being completely well. I think the best thing about being ill is it makes me appreciate being healthy.

Continue praying for baby Harper. She is getting so much better. :) Praise the Lord.

Yesterday David was blessed by watching his high schoolers hang posters at the school for Coach Warren. But the neatest part was during Activity Period when many students went outside to gather around the flag pole (similar to See You at the Pole) to pray for Coach Warren. Coach was there to witness all the prayers and well wishes from students. We are so blessed to live in Queen City where many believe in Christ and the power of prayer. Where else in the world could you see a 100 students (16-18 year olds) gather around praying in front of their peers begging God to heal their coach. I am in awe of our students. David said most were the athletes praying for him. I am grateful God led us to QC for our family to serve and live here.

Shellye

...and here I sit at home :(

2009-01-22T11:59:00.000-06:00

Well, my assistant doesn't have strep...she has a viral infection. She is sick at home today too. I had a horrible night. I couldn't sleep throughout the night. I felt horrible. It is unreal how bad my throat can hurt. I ran a fever all night long until about 10 AM. I still feel pretty bad. I hope the antibiotics kick in soon so I will feel better. I need to be at school tomorrow. I hope David and Caleb will stay well. Mauri stayed home until 11:45. She needed to stay home the entire day, but she just can't stay down long.

Mauri is suppose to be at All Region tomorrow and Saturday, but due to her illness we had Mr. Brannan call the people to have an alternate go in her place. I just don't think it would be right to allow her to go and spread the sickness. I hope she'll be okay with it.

She has been looking at prom jewelry and hairstyles. It seems like she is close to making a decision. Oh, also she has a date. He is a great guy who is a gentleman :) which makes me feel very comfortable with her going to the prom with him. Everything is going so smoothly so I hope it will continue.

Mauri is thinking about having an invitation only after prom party. I think she needs to keep it small to her closest friends.

I keep praising God for all He has done with and through her. I am glad it is coming together so well.

I guess it is time to go back to sleep. I've been awake too long. I need more rest. I hope this throat will get well soon.

Shellye

I DON'T like being sick!

2009-01-21T17:56:00.000-06:00

Well, we found out, Ethan, my precious nephew had strep Monday afternoon after we arrived back home from visiting this weekend. Mauri was diagnosed with strep throat yesterday afternoon. And now...you've guessed it...I have strep. It is NOT fun being sick. I hope to make some chili soon and then I'll start feeling better...I hope. I hope I don't pass this on to my husband or son. My assistant left early today to head to the doctor with what she thinks is strep throat too. I also hope I don't pass it along to any of my first graders nor colleagues.

Please continue praying for pretty princess Harper who is still in NICU in Tulsa. God is continuing to do great things.

Also, please pray for Coach Warren, our newest AD. :) He has been off chemo since last summer because the spots on his liver continued to stay dormant. But, today they were told the spots on his liver had grown some. The largest growth was 1/2 inch and the others grew a little. He will start chemo this coming Monday. Please continue to keep his family and him in your prayers. God has done miraculous things in their lives over the past 19 months. He has a wonderful wife (a 2nd grade teacher), and three sons (2nd grader, kindergartner, and a 26 month old.

Thanks for praying!

Shellye

Tidbits

2009-01-19T16:38:00.001-06:00

We've had a wonderful long weekend. I truly enjoy being with my family all the time. God has blessed me with a fantastic family. Mom and dad flew to visit Aunt Sandy and the rest of the family since they couldn't over the holidays. David, Mauri, Caleb, and I drove down to Malakoff to visit my sister's family: Kimmy, Eric, Evan, and Ethan. Mauri had an Honor Band concert Saturday afternoon which put us 50 miles closer to Kimmy's family, so we decided to take a road trip to visit with them for a day or two. We had a great time together doing absolutely nothing. :) To me that is the best kind of visit. We had the privilege of worshipping at their new church: FBC Malakoff. Eric did a great job of leading us in worship and their pastor, Nathan, served up a great helping of God's word. I am so happy that they seem to finally be settling in to their new home and new community. I think they moved there 7 months ago tomorrow but it seems like a lifetime ago. I hated saying good bye today, but we had such a great relaxing time together and I know they'll be home soon...I think in two weeks. I wish our time there could have been longer but maybe so during Spring Break or the summer. I love watching Evan and Ethan grow up. My kids are teens now so I do enjoy seeing little ones blossom so quickly.

God has allowed me to spend time in His Word and with Him in prayer this weekend for a little one named Harper Stamps. It seems I know her mom so well even though we've never met. I've gotten into enjoying finding new blogs of Christian women through their own written word. Kelly, Harper's mom, seems so open and honest before her readers about Christ and how God is constantly working in and through her family. Please join me in praying for Harper's little precious God-given life and reading through her footsteps on mom's blog: www.kellyskornerblog.com . Her grandpa also updates on her life happenings on: www.fbcflippin.blogsot.com . I am so glad God has allowed me to be a part of their lives even though only through a glimpse of their words via the Internet. I know the Internet can be used for bad, but I am in awe of how God uses it for His glory, purpose, and to bring Him honor through brothers and sisters in Christ lifting one another up to edify Him. This is another way God allows me and many others to be His hands and His feet to people in need. May this also lead many of us to be His hands and feet to others who live right at our back doors as well as our neighbors at work and in our communities. I can't wait to see what God has in store for the Stamps' family and especially little Miss Harper Stamps' footsteps glorifying and honor the One and Only True God.

I guess it's back to the grind stone tomorrow with my fantastic first graders. I feel I'm going to go back with a renewed, rekindled spirit to be their teacher. It is amazing how God uses my own life lessons as well as other people's life stories to influence and reach me in my everyday life. God is constantly showing me what an awesome responsibility I have in teaching the young ones. It is great to know the twenty little ones God has put in my classroom this year are being loved and cared for by Him through me. I love each and everyone of them and I know they all know how much they are loved and cared for as well as how much each one has learned in first grade this year. It is an amazing thing to be in charge of setting a firm foundation for someone's education. One of the best parts is to see a child learn to read and comprehend.

Well, I can't believe I'm all alone right now. Things change from moment to moment around here. We arrived home at 3:10 from our little road trip. By 3:12 two boys stopped by to hang with Caleb. By 4 Mauri's BFF came by to quickly complete a history packet with 85 questions before time for a movie with a couple of friends. I can't believe they did it, but they did. Therefore, Mauri just left to pick up 3 buds to see Mall Cop, Caleb is up the road shedsledding with 2 buds, and David is working out at school. Man a moment of piece and quiet after no alone time over the last several days. It's so strange but in a good kind of way. I can't wait until they all return to our home where they definitely belong.

God is good! All the time!

Shellye

P.S. My sister just called to say Ethan, my nephew, has strep throat. He seemed to have a slight fever when we arrived Saturday PM. But we didn't think much of it. Then, Sunday AM he has a little fever. By last night he had some welps over his body. This morning a higher fever and bright red HUGE spots all over. She got him in for a 3:45 appt. with his Tyler doctor which is a good hour away. She said the test came back positive, so we've all been exposed. I'm just so glad we were able to be around them this weekend for a great time of fellowship and relaxation. Ehtan has been sick at home the last three Sundays and Mondays. We're beginning to wonder if he is just allergic to Mondays.

Mauri found her prom dress!

2009-01-10T15:26:00.000-06:00

What a LONG week! I guess it seemed so long because it was our first week back to school after being off for two weeks. I don't remember school days lasting as long as they did this week. Finally, yesterday went by at a usual rate for me. My kiddos were great all week. I think we are back in routine and ready to go. Plus, we are off on Monday the 19th, so that always helps us move on.

God is good, all the time! I am in awe of how God provided Mauri's prom dress in January on the first day within the first 3 hours of shopping, and that included eating dinner with mom, dad, Kevin, Ami, and the four of us. Mauri realized earlier this week she is going to be gone on the next 5 or 6 Saturdays due to UIL writing, honor band, All-Region band, and solo/ensemble contests. Therefore, our Saturday shopping spree for the "perfect" prom dress would be put off until mid-February with her prom on March 28th. I know way early for prom.

We left the house about 4 to head to Traditions in Texarkana. We spent about 30 minutes there trying on 4 dresses. Then, we ran to Bridal Castle to try on 4 more dresses quickly in 15 minutes before they closed at 5:30. We met the family for dinner at McAllisters. While showing the pics Ami mentioned looking at Dillard's. Mauri and I went there right after dinner. There were what seemed like slim pickin's. There were so few dresses that we almost missed them. I finally found a couple while Mauri was looking through some too. We finally got a dressing room where she tried on 4 dresses once again. She tried on a gray dress. I would have never thought of gray but when she put it on it was a beautiful dress. Mauri got kind of down pretty quickly early on after the second or third dress she tried on for the day, BUT as soon as she slipped this dress on she was beaming!!! :) I could see that her whole countenance changed in an instant. She is so beautiful on the inside and out and I think for the first time in a long time she could she her outer beauty as well. I am so proud of her and grateful God blessed us with a beautiful girl who has a very nice prom dress so early on in the shopping process. Now on to shoes, necklace, earrings, hair stuffins, etc...oh me oh my...Dear Lord please continue to help us in all areas.

The most amazing thing of all is God allowed us to have the money in January which is just unheard of during this month of the year. David and I both being teachers is tough during this month because we were paid on December 17th and won't get paid again until the 24th of January. However, David wrote a curriculum for Texas A&M - Texarkana in the fall and he got compensated for it on December 19th. We put back $600.00 for Mauri's 2008-2009 dual-credit college tuition which will have to be paid next week. Praise the Lord -- Mauri's tuition is $425 which left us $175 for a dress which cost only $170 --- isn't GOD GREAT!!!!! :)

Bless Caleb's heart...he has had a tough week getting adjusted to a school schedule again. Being in 8th grade in Texas is tough with the 4 TAKS tests one must pass to go to 9th grade. Therefore, teachers truly pile it on during the 2nd semester. I don't blame them. It is a good thing God allowed David and I to teach middle school TAAS before, so we know how it is for the teachers getting kids prepared for the tests. He also took on the daunting task of reading Eldest for his AR book this nine weeks --- a mere 668 page book which he was on 350 when he returned this past Monday. He must AR test this Monday. He is finally on page 500. I'll be glad when he gets it behind him because he is overwhelmed with it right now. He is enjoying the book it's just the amount of reading has gotten the best of him right now. It is so amazing seeing how God has worked miracles throughout his life especially in the area of reading. Being dyslexic is so hard yet God provided us to be in a school district that has the best dyslexic program. He was in the Scottish Rite program provided by Queen City ISD for two years. He completed the program last January and he is a new person. I know he is still dyslexic but now I truly understand what the title of the book, Overcoming Dyslexia, truly means. I am in awe of him.

God has blessed us with the most amazing teenagers in the world. I know I am not deserving of them but am so grateful God gave them to us to raise and nurture into the fine Christians He is creating them to be.

May you have a blessed year, too!

Shellye

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T13:03:00.001-06:00

What a great way to start your day --- with a new year...a JESUS year!

We rang in the year like no other before: my husband and I went grocery shopping at Wal-mart from 10:10 PM - 11:20 PM. I could NOT believe we spent $220.00 on groceries. I don't think we've ever done this before. We didn't by anything except groceries. I'm sure it was because of all the nutritious morsels we purchased in order to start our year off in a healthier way. ;) The kids rang in the new year with the youth group from 9:30 PM - 12:30 AM. We have an awesome youth pastor. I truly appreciate his wife and he opening the Family Life Center for the kids to have a safe place to ring in the new year. Especially since they are expecting their first born tomorrow. They are a great pair.

I have already journaled today, read a few chapters of Experiencing God Around the Kitchen Table, and chosen my first Scripture to memorize for the year. Isaiah 26:3 "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You." I am going to go to BAMM to purchase the One Year Chronological Order Bible to start that today as well. I am embarrassed to say I have never read the Bible completely through cover to cover in a year.

I am so looking forward to a healthier new me: mind, body, and soul. God is so good and I am looking forward to the lessons He has set out for me to learn this year. I just hope I learn them quickly and apply them immediately so I can learn as much as He has in store for me.

May God bless you and your family throughout 2009!

Shellye

looking forward to a JESUS year

2008-12-31T15:26:00.001-06:00

I am ready for a new year: 2008 has been a hard year adjusting to all of David’s choices. He will begin his 2nd semester in the doctoral program at Texas A&M – Commerce mid-January as well as teach an online class at Texas A&M – Texarkana as well as teach BCIS at high school. I hope he doesn’t choose to put anymore on his plate because I feel it is too full at this point. It wears me out just thinking about all of his duties. I’m glad all I have to do outside of my home is teach first grade. That is plenty full for me.

God has really put a lot on my heart today…so many things to think about and ponder in my heart. I do not like making resolutions because I don’t know if I’ve ever kept nor achieved a resolution before. I guess I’ll commit to things but not resolve…does that make sense.

Things I feel God is laying on my heart:

1. Instill the Word in my home, family, children: listen to Next Generation New Testament on CD daily + play more Christian music in our home – It’s all we listen to but not much music playing in our home usually the TV is on without us really watching it—all there seems to be nowadays is trash on TV anyway + memorize a verse or two for the month – post Scripture in home, read the one year chronological Bible with family daily + Experiencing God for youth – David and I have both been through the Bible study but the kids haven’t. I feel more than ever I must get my last teaching into Mauri. She’ll more than likely leave the nest in the fall of 2010. Therefore, I want Caleb and her to complete Experiencing God in our home before they leave the nest. I know how much I grew through this study and I’m praying they will grow closer to Christ through their study time as well. I'm looking forward to completing this along side them.
2. Keep up with housework, organization in the home, cooking more meals
3. Treat David better: accept him even when I’m not happy with his choices
4. Memorizing Scripture with my siestas – LPM blog and my family