Sunday Mind Dump (through the eyes of the wife).

1) Where did the week go? I feel like I have been walking in circles this week. I have a few things I need to figure out on a personal basis so please keep me in prayer.

2) I decided this past week to sit out the last few sessions of the Esther series. I'm pretty confident now that this is something I want to do with the Women of WABC. So I'm still on the look out for the series (just in case anyone is listening). Hey, if you don't ask you may miss a blessing (lol).

3) I also missed choir rehearsal for the Easter service at NLP on Thursday. Honestly I just felt "off" this week. More then likely it was my system re-adjusting to my meds ( I was out of my bp pills for a few days, which is never a good thing).

4) The one good bit of news I received in relation to my health came on Monday when I visited my doctor. Seems like all of my test from my last check up came back pretty good. I did have to add Fish Oil tablets to my list of meds. Seems that I have low cholesterol. Go figure! I never have normal symptoms (lol).

5) The women of WABC are gearing up for their first "Girl's Night Out" which is this coming Friday. I'm telling you we need to get these ladies out more often (lol).

6) Apparently the men had such a good time at their Men's Ministry breakfast last month that they are asking for a repeat performance.

7) We had our first "Meet and Greet" for guest today immediately following our morning service. We got names of a few people, and they will receive a follow up letter this week.

8) Saturday the youth went to an expo that was held to highlight opportunities for summer programs. The report I got back was that they had a really good time. I love seeing the faces of our youth when they are out and about. Now a few of them are starting to feel comfortable enough to invite friends along.

9) Apparently the free coffee and donuts got rave reviews from one of our members today. Sometimes the little things really do make a big difference.

10) This afternoon we had a "Christian Jubilee" (think open mike night). The thing that I loved about this program was the varying ages that participated. I saw young people worshiping beside those who are young at heart. It was a beautiful thing to see.

11) Marc's message today was "To Legit to Quit". We have been experimenting with recording Marc's messages and today we videotaped. Unfortunately we didn't record the whole thing. Its a learning process at this point but WABC is changing slowly in the direction that God has planned for us.

12) So for anyone who may want to know.............Marc and I are loving being at WABC.

Jonas Needs Our Help

Please help if you can http://www.jonasparas.com/ . One of his donation jars was stolen today from a local IHOP.

I don't know why but this little boys story has really touched my heart ( I don't know the family personally, but after seeing the story on our local news station I couldn't get him out of my mind). I can't imagine what I would have done if this had happened to one of our children. And now the fact that someone was bold enough to steal the donation jar, well it just makes me mad.

Happy St. Patty's Day!

Sunday Mind Dump (through the eyes of the wife).

1) Its been a week of ups and downs. Mostly ups, so I can't complain.

2) We are having issues with the city over our plans to expand (so please keep us in prayer), but I know better then anyone that God always has a better plan anyway so I am believing that the final outcome will be for his glory. Marc even said that if the issue becomes to big we will start looking for alternative places for our new sanctuary (even if that means buying a shopping center! I think that one may have thrown a few of his deacons and trustees...LOL).

3) I am doing my "Sunday Mind Dump" really early today because tonight I am watching a movie with my girls. This weekend I spent some time away from Twitter and Facebook and just hung out with my family. It was good stuff. Sometime its good to unplug and hang out with your family. Its something I plan to do more often.

4) Nicki has been asked to join the Praise Team at NLP. I am so proud of the direction that God is taking my girls. They have come a long way in their relationship with Christ. I can't wait to see what God has in store for them.

5) TJ tries really hard not to pay attention in church and for a long time I worried about him. But on the Sundays that I have attended service with him and Nicki I have noticed a change in him. He actually listens to what Pastor Dan has to say. Many have asked why our children are not with us at WABC, but I believe God has placed them where they need to be (plus they are grown) and the most important thing to me is that they are allowed to freely worship God in their own way. That is not always easy when you are a PK (pastor's kid).

6) WABC has received a very special donation. I can't talk about it until its officially announced but lets just say it will become a very important part of our worship service and our Wednesday Nights. Not to mention that impact on many of our upcoming events.

7) This afternoon we fellowshipped with a local church which lost their church building to a fire less then four weeks ago. The amazing part is that the congregation is looking forward, not back and have not let this tragedy stop them from praising God.

8) Speaking of praise......If you look at my husbands face you can see just how much he enjoyed the service and especially the singing (lol). Actually if he could have I think he would have stole the choir! He kept calling them the newly formed choir of WABC (I swear I never know what will come out of that man's mouth). Our music ministry is one of the things we are working on. I can't wait to hear them blow it out one day. I know its coming.

9) His message today was "What if God Got Tired". Early that week we talked about how easy it is to get tired when you are in ministry. I commented that what if God got tired of us? Apparently I was his inspiration this week. I loved that! May have to keep the old man (lol).

10) Last week we started serving coffee and donuts before service (nothing like the free breakfast my friend Shaun in Atlanta is offering. Just in case someone reads this from Atlanta go check out the Courageous Church). Its free of charge and will become part of many changes that we are making to our Hospitality Ministry. At the end of the month we will begin hosting a Meet and Greet for our guest every 4th Sunday. Its a chance for them to get to know us and get additional information on WABC, our beliefs and the various ministries offered at WABC.

11) I have missed several of the Beth Moore sessions this month and even though I hate that this happened I am beginning to think that it happened for a reason. I hope to purchase the materials so that our Women's Ministry can experience this great lesson together. If anyone knows someone who would be willing to donate the sessions to our ministry please drop me a line. I have been looking for it on eBay but so far none fit my pocketbook (at least not at this time).

12) I heard a bit of buzz about our Women's Ministry first "Girls Night Out". It should make for an interesting evening. I love that our church is excited to invite friends, family and strangers to WABC. It says a lot about the people there and the church itself. Its starting to show because today we had several guest attend service.

13) Speaking of sharing, apparently Marc needs to order additional cards for WABC because several of our members have passed so many out that they came back today asking for more.

14) I have heard it on good authority that several people have been checking out our church blog (you never know who is watching you). I try to keep the info current (the worse thing to do is have a website that doesn't carry updated info). Its nothing fancy but when you go there you get to see WABC like we really are....a Real Church, Serving the Real God, Reaching out to Real People to Effect Real Change!

Sunday Mind Dump (through the eyes of the wife).

1) This week went by way to fast. Tuesday we had a very productive staff meeting. Some of the conversation was difficult to say the least. New ways of doing things sometimes causes people to become uncomfortable, but sometimes being uncomfortable causes us to think, thereby bringing about change.

2)Marc spent just about every evening at church this week. He is bi-vocational, and has a strong work ethic. He is the same when it comes to ministry.

3) Friday we attended a fundraiser in support of a friend who's ministry supports missions in India and Haiti. I am amazed at the work they have accomplished in just five years.

4) Saturday the Men's Ministry held its first Men's Fellowship breakfast since Marc became pastor. The young men were asked to attend. Apparently some of them had to be dragged out of bed (lol). Afterwards they said they had a great time. Now a slumber party for the young men is in the works (that and a trip to the batting cages). We are hoping that mentoring will become a very important part of the Men's Ministry at WABC. Saturday seemed to start the ball rolling.

5) Don't worry the Women's Ministry has some things up our sleeve. At the end of the month we will be holding our First Girls Night Out. We also have a women's bible study in the works, a Women's Weekend Experience and several more events in the coming months.

6) Please pray for our Music Ministry. It's one of those tough discussions we had in our staff meeting on Tuesday.

7) We recorded Marc's message this morning. We are hoping to start videotaping it in the near future. My husband is a gadget man so he has lots of cool stuff that now will be used to benefit WABC's ministry.

8) Speaking of his message. It was really good this morning (not that the other's haven't been...lol). But when I write 3 pages of notes, its really good! His title was: "I Know Who I Am". He reminded us of the importance of your witness. Testimony with our lips is not as good as our actions. We must demonstrate by our actions who we belong to. It's not about your title, the only way we will reach people is by going outside of the walls of the church. Don't wait for them to come to you. It's not about us, Its not even about the building.

9) Marc's twin sister surprised him at church this morning. It was the first time she had ever heard him preach. He put her on the spot when he asked her to sing. She did it, but I have the feeling he will pay for that one in the future (lol).

10) I don't have a picture, but today I wore a sleeveless sheath dress with a jacket. When I took the jacket off Nicki said I was sporting my Michelle Obama look (lol).

11) How did you all do with the time change? I went to bed early last night. I even laid out our clothing in case we got behind in the morning (we still ended up behind). After ironing 4 dress shirts last night I have made an executive decision. Despite the economy this girl will be dropping off her husbands shirts at the nearest local cleaners ASAP. Just today he went through 2 t-shirts and 3 dress shirts. My grandmother did this for my grandfather for years. Not this girl! I have concluded that as much as I love my Rowenta iron...I don't love it that much (lol).

12) I made a major sacrifice this weekend. Last year we started buying lawn furniture for our backyard. I had this dream of entertaining over the summer. I cleared off our front porch, painted the shutters, garage and the front door. We brought tables and chairs and tiki lanterns. Marc even brought a gazebo (which has yet to go up). The one mistake I made was not buying enough chairs for the tables. By the time I realized it the chairs were gone. A few months ago I noticed the same chairs were back at Sam's club. Marc gave me money on Saturday...I had a choice between two new chairs or a trip to the salon to get my nails done. Guess which one I chose?

Sunday Mind Dump, through the eyes of the wife ( in picture form).

1) I think my husband had the best time ever today. You could see it all over his face. Several things happened that put that smile there. For one thing he was surprised by a visit from some very special people from our home church.

2) His message focused on parenting and what is the best source for help. He talked about how important it is to have God as the center of your family. The only tool we need for parenting is to seek the Lord.

3) This morning he got to dedicate his first baby at WABC. Cecelia's father was on leave for only two weeks so we took the opportunity to dedicate her while her daddy was in town. Please keep him in your prayers as he pulls out next week.

4) Today was a great day for us because we got to welcome a longtime friend to the ministry. Rob and his wife Diane will become an important part of the outreach plan for WABC. Rob has a strong background in Men's Ministry, Prison Ministry and Community Service in the city of Norfolk.

5) Pastor Addie Peterson came to speak to our leadership team. She was point on with her message. Marc and I have had a strong relationship with her and her church for a number of years.

6) One of the things she said was that stuck with me is that a Leader is only as good as the team. We cannot win this by our self. Our job is to make the boss look good. Who's the boss? God is the boss.

7) Nicki and I had a great time Friday night at the talk on Multi-ethnic churches. We really enjoyed the music, but we especially enjoyed the dinner. We were served a mix of ethnic food from Caribbean, Lebanese, Filipino, Mexican to Soul Food. I turned down some ox tail but I did eat the curry chicken and plantain.

8) I am still studying the Beth Moore series on "Esther". Actually I think every Women's ministry in the world is studying this series (LOL).

9) Nicki and I attended our last voice lesson this past week (most of the class did not want it to end) so this week we will begin practice for the Easter Choir Service at NLP. We will be singing during the Saturday service (I'm not crazy, I know where I had better be on Easter morning). For me its still a matter of training. You can never get enough of that.

10) Tuesday night we will hold our monthly staff meeting. The difference this week is that we will have two new participants. Welcome Rob and Diane to the WABC family. I'm sure Marc will be grinning again (Did I happen to mention how happy he was today.... LOL)?

11) On Friday Marc and I will be attending a banquet who's proceeds go to benefit a local missions organization which recently went to India. My girlfriend Pam who will be speaking at our Women's Day Celebration went with the group. I am looking forward to hearing more about her experience.

12) There is so much on our calender for this week that I am sure if I spend too much time thinking about it I would probably start falling apart. Unfortunately there is no time to think. Thank goodness Monday is a day of rest!

It takes a Village!

Going to see these guys tonight at NLP. These brothers have like 18 different degrees between the seven of them. Now that's what I'm talking about! Also Pastor Dan will be talking about multi-cultural churches. If you want a great example of a multi-cultural church, then you need to check out New Life Providence. I'm learning so much by being there. I know that someday the knowledge we gain at NLP will benefit WABC. And I especially thank NLP for being so open and allowing my family to be a part of this ministry. Actually I applaud any ministry that is willing to be transparent and share with others in leadership who are just starting out ( I use a lot of resources from Granger Community Church). Last night I was checking out Angie's Blog and followed the link to her hubby' blog. I noticed this while looking around. Now how cool is that? So if you are a pastor maybe Pastor Byron can be of assistance in some way. I think God is pleased with us when we share in this ministry together. After all we should all be reaching for the same goal. Its not a competition people!

Well I have a busy weekend ahead and today I'm doing some housecleaning (Oh, the joy). See you all Sunday Night.

Sunday Mind Dump (through the eyes of the wife).

1) This week went by way to fast. So fast that I'm not even sure what I did (lol).
2) I made a commitment this week to go the extra mile to help Marc. I learned a lot from our Weekend to Remember. Now I'm trying to apply as many of those principles as I can to our marriage. Just because you have been married for over 26 years doesn't mean you can't learn a few thing here and there.
3) Wednesday we got to sing in front of our voice class. Nicki did a great job. I let "fear" get in the way and it was reflected in my singing. Which is funny because the first thing our instructor told us that first day was that "fear" could keep you from fulfilling your goal. I refuse to let that happen so I will be challenging myself to keep moving forward.
4) I missed the Esther Bible study on Wednesday morning. I hate that. Thankfully I can order the session online.
5) Thursday Marc and I put a lot of the finishing touches on his office at church. It now looks like a real office (my aunt's words not mine). I plan to add a few more personal touches here and there (including lots of pics of our family).
6) Its not official but it looks like Marc may have an associate minister really soon. Still leaving it in God's hands, but it looks promising. If I'm not mistaken, it will be history making!
7) I met today with what hopefully will be the ministry team for our Women's Ministry. Next month we will present some of our plans for the Women of WABC. The response to some of my ideas seemed to have been met with excitement. We even had a few ladies sign up to attend the Women of Faith Conference this summer. I think this will allow them to get to know me in a more personal way.
8) Marc will be meeting with the men next month and hopefully the Men's Ministry will be up and running around the same time as the Women's Ministry.
9) Speaking of the men. They will have their first get together (a Men's Breakfast) in a few weeks. Then at the end of the month some of the men (and women) will accompany some of the youth to a Wizard's Game. Should make for an interesting bus ride. To bad I won't be there to see it (I'm saving for the conference).
10) Even though our initial goal is to minister to the women and men of WABC, our ultimate goal is to go out outside of the walls of WABC and minister to our community.
11) Today we celebrated Black History Month. I hope that one day we will be able to celebrate the many nationalities of our people. I know for a fact that part of my family is American Indian, unfortunately there are no formal records ( just the same as my African American heritage) from which I can gather info.
12) This week will be just as crazy and busy as last week. Including the final week of voice lessons at New Life. Then Friday Nicki and I will be attending a Dinner Theatre program at New Life. Pastor Dan will be talking about being a Multi-Cultural church and the guest singers will be these guys.
13) Speaking of Pastor Dan. Nicki said he was especially funny this morning (and this is after preaching the night before and then having another service immediately following the 8:45 service). I'm sorry I missed it, but with two services at WABC today I thought it would be better not to spread myself to thin. I'm not sure what I would do if Marc ever goes to three services a week (heck, I'm not sure what Marc would do...LOL ).
14) I know that we are way more traditional then the modern churches of some of my blog friends, but I believe in my heart that God has plans for WABC. I'm so thankfully that God has allowed Marc and I to be a part of this. Each day I feel like I am opening up another gift. Sometimes I want just want to pinch myself because I can't believe he has placed us on this path.

15) Marc wore himself out today. His message really hit home the importance of rejoicing even in the midst of our storms.

16) One last thing. Today during our youth time, the Youth Director asked the youth what source do you use when you need information on something. She was talking about the bible, but their answers included....yahoo, google and map quest. LOL..that is what happens when you wire a 70 year old church with Internet.

Best of Friends

I love that our girls have such a strong bond with their cousins. They have learned the value of friendship early on. I hear next weekend my house will be filled with the laughter of giggling girls (actually grown women). I'm ok with that though, because it means I will know where they are and that they are together. They all have a pretty good head on their shoulders (let's face facts, they have some pretty fantastic mom's...lol). I can't wait to see what the future holds for them, and because of the friendship I have with their mom's, I know this bond will last forever. We are a pretty tight family, and thankfully we seemed to have passed this down to the next generation.

Thank You

I debated on whether I would write this post, but after much thought I knew I had to (and I will tell you why in a minute). There are three ladies who I have never met, who I happen to know have taken time out to pray for Marc and I and the ministry of WABC. I may never meet these three ladies, but I couldn't go another day without telling them how much I appreciate them and their prayers. I know they pray for other people (I'm not that special). But there have been occasions where I have received a note from them at just the right moment (so I know its God), when I needed it most. I know they understand in a way that many others never will. We belong to a very special "club", and not because we signed up for it (I can't speak for them, but growing up this was the last thing on my list of things I dreamed about being when I grew up...lol). Mostly because I grew up in this fishbowl called a pastors life. My grandfather was a pastor, my godfather was a pastor and several friends in our life are pastors. When I married Marc I must have been blind because I didn't see that one coming (other's did, but not me. Guess I was blinded by love, or God kept that one a secret because he knew I might run in the other direction and try to flee my destiny....lol). Anyway, to make a long story short...thank you Lori, Michelle and Angie, for taking time out of your busy schedules to bless this Pastor's wife from a small urban church in the heart of the city.

Note: the reason I write this is because we should never take for granted what impact a small gesture may have on someone. Sometimes it makes all the difference in the world.

Sunday Mind Dump (through the eyes of the wife).

1) We spent the weekend at a marriage conference hosted by Family Life. Two members of our Leadership staff attended the conference with us. We are hoping next year to send more of the couples from WABC.

2) We first heard about the conference through my friend Peggy who attended the conference last year with her husband. They were back this year, and because of the number of people they recommended to the conference they qualified for free registration. I highly recommend this conference to couples who may be in crisis, but also to couples who have not taken time out in a very long time just for themselves.

3) A friend of Marc's graciously stepped in to speak at WABC this weekend so that we could attend the entire weekend. We had a really great time, and the couple that went with us came back refreshed (as a matter of fact one of the members at WABC commented on the fact that they seem to be like newlyweds...lol).

4) Part of the "homework" assignment for the conference was that at the end of Saturday's session (which just happened to fall on Valentine's Day) the couples were to go on a date night. Marc and I attended Saturday night worship service at New Life Providence (this was a special blessing for me, because Marc and I do not get to sit together during Sunday services) and then went back home that evening to watch the movie "Fireproof" .

5) This week we will be in our 5th session of Beth Moore's Esther series. I'm learning that there is so much more to this story then I ever imagined. Beth's bible studies leave me wanting more and more of God's word.

6) I love planning events, and right now I am working on a Woman's Weekend Experience for the woman of WABC and for the women within our community. Part of the excitement for me will be introducing the ladies to our keynote speaker (who just happens to be one of my really good friends). We plan to use one of the resources provided by Group publishing, for our Saturday session.

7) One of the things down the pike for the Women of WABC is a possible trip to Washington DC for the Women of Faith Conference. We have several people in place who are doing a great job with our youth so I am concentrating a lot of my efforts right now on our Women's Ministry.

8) I know this is the typical area in which a lot of ministers wives find themselves (and usually not of their own free will) but I would not have volunteered to lead our women's ministry if I didn't feel a strong call to do it. Even though Marc and I have spent 17 years in youth ministry I am looking forward to the new direction my life is taking.

9) Speaking of woman's ministry...Marc requires that every ministry leader complete a Vision Statement and goals for their various ministries. As the new WABC Woman's Ministry Leader I am not exempt just because I happen to be the pastor's wife. Let me just say, this is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. But I did it!!!!!

10) Speaking of "Fireproof" , right now I am watching the movie (again) with my daughter Nicki. If you have young adult daughters (or sons. Nicki just happens to be the only one home right now) I recommend that they watch this movie, and if you know a young couple about to get married I recommend sending them to a "Weekend To Remember" event.

11) Lastly, each person at the conference was asked to write a love letter to their husband and wife. I have only peeked at the letter Marc wrote to me. I had to stop reading it at the conference because it made me cry (a good cry). We also reaffirmed our commitment at the end of the conference to each other. Marc started cutting up during the exchange, but we came out of this experience determined to take what we learned and actually apply it to our life. Otherwise (in the word of my husband) we might as well have stayed at home.

12) Sidebar: I know Marc is wearing a suit in the pictures, but I wanted you to know he did not wear one Friday or Saturday. He only wore one today because we were going to WABC after the conference ended. I love to see him in a simple pair of slacks and a shirt, but this weekend I have learned to accept my man just the way he is. And can you imagine if he wore torn jeans and a graphic t-shirt (lol). All joking aside, I recently saw a picture of President Obama playing golf, and one where he wore slacks and a shirt. Looked pretty good if you ask me and since we happen to be around the same age as him and Michelle I say if its good enough for my president its good enough for me.

Happy Birthday Honey

It doesn't take much to make this man happy. The Leadership of WABC hosted a surprise dinner for him tonight. Add in a mug with the name "Pastor" on it and a new chair for his office and you get a smile almost as big as the smile he gets on his face when he holds a baby (lol).

Sunday Mind Dump (through the eye's of the wife) with pictures!

1) We have had a really good day at WABC. The church surprised Marc with cake and punch after service today for his birthday.

2) After church we went to dinner with friends Di and Rob. I'm so full I can hardly stand myself.

3) Friday night Marc was able to attend my minister's wives association meeting. He got a chance to network with other minister's in the area, but the best part was spending time with some of the associates from our home church.

4) This past Saturday we cleaned what seemed like 70's year's of stuff out of WABC. It was fun watching everyone's face. I think they enjoyed tossing stuff just a bit too much.

5) There is a lot going on this week, my plate is overflowing with activity (just the way I like it).

6) Marc's message today was "Who Let the Dog's Out" (I almost fell out of my chair when I heard it). As a matter of fact I kept waiting for someone to break out in song (like my daughter Nicki).

7) We have a staff meeting this week, not sure we will get much done because its also a surprise dinner for Marc (don't worry he rarely reads my blog, so it will be our secret).

8) I missed the Esther bible study last week, but I will be back in full swing on Wednesday (including my voice lessons, which we also missed). Sometime you have to accept that you can't be in two places at the same time. My body kind of shutdown last week and I finally listened and sat out of a few activities.
9) This weekend we will be at the marriage retreat. I'm kicking myself now for not talking Marc into staying at the hotel, but since its next door we made the decision to just come home each night.

10) This weekend we began plans for our Women's Weekend Experience that will be held in May. I can't wait to share all of the details with the Women at WABC.

Note: I know this breaks all of the blogging rules, but since its my blog who cares! I'm so excited about where WABC is going that I can't contain myself. So forgive me if I get a little carried away (lol).

Harper Is Home!

If you recall a few weeks back I asked you to please pray for Harper. Thanks to all of you who prayed for her. Just wanted to update you (just in case you haven't been following her story). She is home, safe and sound with her parents. God is so good!

Sunday Mind Dump (through the eyes of the wife).

1) Wow, its been a busy...amazing week.

2) The Esther bible study has been awesome. I love the passion that Beth Moore has for teaching. Wish I could bottle some of it and use it myself.

3) Our voice lesson teacher said he will be calling us out to sing in the coming weeks. Lord help me, I can already feel my knee's knocking.

4) I attended an awesome women's weekend experience at New Life this past Friday and Saturday. It was just what I needed to renew my spirit.

5) The ongoing message this weekend has been "Freedom". Freedom from all of the baggage that holds us back. Freedom from Fear, Depression, Abuse, Drugs, etc. I heard it in the praise and worship music at New Life at 8:45 and in Marc's message at 11:30 service.

6) We had a full house again today (well, full for WABC. I would have counted heads but I was holding one of our littlest members). Now if we could just get people to move to the front of the pew line (lol).

7) I'm still in need of advice on children's church ministry (working within a confined area, with a small start up budget). Holla if you can help.

8) Nicki's friend's from NSU were at WABC to visit today and it just reaffirmed my thoughts that this is a group that we should be tapping into (we are within walking distance of the college campus).

9) I had these big plans to make a Superbowl lunch (yes, I was actually going to cook) but after church Nicki's friends asked us to join them for dinner at a local restaurant. If a young person wants to spend time with two old married folks who are we to refuse.

10) Today I am doing something I never thought I would do. I am sitting with my husband watching the Super Bowl (actually at this moment he is sleeping. He preached his heart out today and came home physically drained). I have never sat through a Superbowl game!

12) Well, there is a lot more I would love to share but I'm going to spend it with the family (even the one's who like to fall asleep on you...lol).

13) So apparently I scored points with hubby for sitting through the entire game. Usually by halftime he goes upstairs to his study to watch the rest of the game. This time he stayed downstairs with me the whole time.

14) Congratulations Pittsburg (think me sitting through the entire game had anything to do with it....lol)?

Sometimes You Just Need A Little Laughter!

This has been my entertainment for the day ( the girl keeps me in stitches). She had this dress when she was a "little" girl. Today she got the bright idea to try it on. Not so "little" anymore (lol). It's a Disney outfit (of course) so I think I am going to have my sister turn it into an apron. Which if you think about it is really funny since Nicki won't go near a stove.

Sunday Mind Dump (through the eyes of the wife).

1) This picture is not flattering at all, but it was taken the day of the Inauguration (party planning can zap your energy really fast...LOL). I'm still in awe of the day and all of the people who came together on that day (especially the fact that there were so many people, of different nationalities all coming together for this historic event). Can you imagine what we could do if we did this on a daily basis?

2) I don't have much to say tonight. Its been a busy week and I'm tired.

3) No, I didn't make it to bed early last night, but we stayed up late because we had company. Two of Nicki's friends from college stopped by to see us. They have promised to visit WABC soon. I love working with young adults. Its always been where I felt a pull to lead. But sometimes God has other plans for you (at least at this moment).

4) Wednesday morning we started the Esther series at New Life Providence. That same evening Nicki and I went back for our Voice Training. I'm so excited about this opportunity to work with the NLP staff. I have learned so much since coming there, its been a godsend for me.

5) We have been tearing Marc's office up this week. There is still a lot of work left to do. He has been concerned about function, while I dream about making it more decorative. I'm sure we will find a balance in there somewhere.

6) Speaking of work, Marc and another friend spent the week bringing WABC into the 21st century. WABC has gone WiFi (not sure if my spelling is correct) !

7) Marc's message today was "A Time For Change". Got to say he even stepped on my toes!

8) Can I just say WABC seems to be overflowing with kids. If anyone has advice on how to do Children' s Ministry on a shoe string budget within tight quarters please let me know. I'm not sure we can afford to wait until we have a new sanctuary.

9) Nicki, my friend Diane and I will be attending a woman's weekend retreat on Friday and Saturday. I'm looking forward to a time of renewal.

10) Marc will celebrate his 46th birthday in a few weeks, not sure how we will celebrate but I have a little something up my sleeve.

11) Well I have a busy week ahead (not to mention a few events in the coming weeks to prepare for) so I wish all of you a blessed week.

Service

Today I watched the Inauguration with my daughters and several members of WABC. This was the first Inauguration for them, the first time they have voted for a president in which their nominee won, the first time they felt that their voice was really heard. We have always told our children that they can become whomever they want to be. I think today they felt that was possible. The looks on their faces was priceless to me. It was a day they will not soon forget, but I hope that all of us will remember who the real commander in chief is. Changes will not, can not occur unless we change and become more like Jesus. The one thing I love about our new President is his commitment to service. We owe it to our children to teach them the importance of serving others. As pastors kids our children have sometimes become the object that people want to serve. I hope that Marc and I have instilled in them the importance of being the servant rather then the one being served.

Prayers for Harper

I have never met Kelly or her family, but her mom's website has been on my list of Minister's Wives for some time. So I have been following Kelly's pregnancy almost from the beginning. Yesterday I went here to check in to see if Harper had been born and found out that she had, but that she was in need of our prayers (see the button link on the side). Please lift Harper and her family up in your prayers. We all know what our God can do, and we especially know about the power of prayer.

Sunday Mind Dump (through the eyes of the wife).

1) It was a great day. Its been a great week, what can I say (may have to do with the fact that I made it to bed at a decent hour).

2) I have been scrapping this week (that's scrapbooking for all of you who don't know). Its something I love that had been put on the back burner in the last few years. I'm starting to get back in the game.

3) I'm so excited about Primetime at NLP. I'm looking forward to reading Esther. But I am especially excited about taking voice lessons.

4) Nicki, TJ, Quisha, Trice and I all went to church together this morning at 8:30 service at NLP. It was good to be in service together (and a long standing prayer seems to be still in effect. I say again thank you Lord).

5) There is a slim chance that Marc will have help with ministry very soon. But our prayer is that this happen only if its God's will. Sorry I can't be more specific. Let's just say it will effect our community outreach in a big way.

6) It takes a lot to get Marc together on Sunday mornings (suit, ties, handkerchiefs, cuff links, shirts, 2 t-shirts, coat, and hat. Thank goodness his robes stay at church now). Usually by the time I arrive at the 11:30 service I am huffing and puffing because of all of the things we have to carry in. I told him today he was high maintenance (lol). That's ok though because I'm high maintenance also! Just not in the way you may all think. I'm thankful to God that we are each others number one support system.

7) We attended a wedding this weekend, and once again we put our photography skills to work. The son of one of our best friends got married. The wedding just reaffirmed to me the importance of Unity.

8) Once again our church service was filled up with young ones. Never underestimate a grandmother. They are well known for leading their grandchildren to church, who then lead their parents to church.

9) I didn't get a chance to count heads, but I do know we were pretty full in the back. Some of them need to move to the front a bit. I promise Marc won't bite (lol).

10) We had one young man ask to be baptized and one lady who joined based on Christian experience. Marc told me later that he told her upfront that we are not looking for pew sitters at WABC. We are a small group and there is more work to be done then workers available in the fields. I think she already knew this though. I have to admit I cried like a baby. None of this is worth it if we don't bring lost and hurt folks to Christ.

11) Marc's message today was "Three General Orders -Watch, Work and Wait" (Luke 12: 35-40).

12) We have a busy week ahead. Hosting an Inauguration party at church (still looking for a big screen TV, which will be good for Tuesday). But in the long term it will be used for a lot of our youth events. Funny thing, everyone is looking for a TV right now in preparation for the Super Bowl! Didn't even cross my mind since I'm not a sports person (lol).

13) There are several events in our area in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King's birthday. Some of our members will be walking in a March in Dr. King's honor Monday morning. I'm praying for a clear, sunny day (it rained all day today and at one point some even saw a bit of snow and ice).

14) There are exciting times ahead for our nation (and WABC), but I keep thinking to myself...are our eyes focused in the right direction? I'm going to try my best this week to enjoy the celebrations, but I also know I need to be looking up to where my help comes from...and my help comes from the Lord!

Sunday Mind Dump (through the eyes of the wife).

1) For the 1st time in a long time I can't really think of a lot to say. Go figure!

2) Some of our plans for the week had to be put on the back burner. In part because we have been dealing with building stuff. And since there is but so much that you can do in a week....meetings took precedence.

3) Several couples have shown and interest in attending the marriage retreat weekend, which I am very glad of (especially since it was my idea). So that means all of my friends who have gone before had better guarantee that we will enjoy the weekend.

4) Nicki and I signed up for Primetime at NLP once again. This time we are taking a course in Training your Voice. I'm slowly (believe me I have been resisting) accepting the fact that I need to be singing at WABC.

5) I also signed up for the Beth Moore series on Esther (which just happens to be my favorite book in the bible). I will be taking this class in the mornings with my friend Sheila who I took the Daniel class with last year.

6) Marc's message for the morning was "Guest Who's Coming To Dinner". It went very well.

7) As a matter of fact most everything went well this morning. Nicki, TJ, Quisha and I made it to the 8:30 AM service at New Life Providence, then I went to WABC with Marc at 11:30. For some reason when I go to NLP in the mornings it anchors me for the rest of the day (especially when my children are next to me).

8) The youth at WABC did a really good job leading the morning service. During our youth moment it seemed as if the youth had taken over. Please pray that we are able to add a children's church to our morning service really soon (for us that means getting through this first phase of building).

9) We did some visiting after church and then came home and got the girls to go to dinner. The ribs at Smokie Bones really hit the spot.

10) We have decided to continue our food drive. As many of you know the local Foodbanks are really in need of donations. And in the words of one of our deacons this morning.....people eat at other times besides the holidays!

11) Well I guess I had more to say then I thought (lol). For some reason by the time I got home this evening I was feeling a bit down. Maybe a good night of rest will make a difference. Seems like sometime this "leadership" stuff gets a bit too heavy a burden to bare. Thank goodness God is the one in control.

Women ( just L-O-V-E ) !

By now if you have read my blog a few times, you know my views on women. The importance of women connecting, sharing, getting along and loving each other no matter what. My word for this year is to Live (Laugh and Love). Several women that I know posted this video on their websites and I wanted to take the time and share it with you. We as women have soo much to celebrate. It's past time that we ladies stop the hatin (life is too short)! God created us for a special purpose and plan which did not include tearing each other down. Make a commitment in 2009 to be more like Christ. Love one another, care for one another, nurture one another, share good godly wisdom with the young ones that will come up behind you. Now don't get me wrong, there have been many times when I have not been that compassionate, loving, caring women that God called me to be. But I have two beautiful daughters that I love more then life itself, and my hope and dream for them is that one day they will leave behind a legacy of love. So I can't ask you to do what I am not willing to do myself. It's time to turn the table's upside down ladies.....let's all just LOVE!

Prayers Please

Please pray for my friend Kelli and her family. Baby Abe went into surgery this morning. Please pray for his doctors, the hospital staff, Abe's little body, his sisters, but especially for Kelli and Mike. You can read their story here. Thank you.

Update: Just heard from Kelli. Abe is out of surgery (went well, now praying that he will extabate fine and breathe well on his on ).

Sunday Mind Dump (through the eye's of the wife).

1) I can't believe its a new year! Mostly I can't believe I'm a Pastor's wife (yes, I know its been a few months). And its not like I didn't know the day would come, its just the fact that I am here that is amazing (and shocking).

2) And did I happen to mention that I am enjoying it (lol).

3) We had a great time at our New Year's Eve celebration. There was praise and worship music, testimony and lots of food and fellowship.

4) Marc had asked us to find candles for the service and at the time I concentrated (actually I complained) more on the fact that it was such short notice, but by the end of the night I got it. He talked about letting your little light shine in 2009. Sometimes I don't get where he is going with stuff, but thankfully that is between him and God and its not meant for me to get (until much later.......lol).

5) Do any of you other ladies look at your husbands sometime and just burst with pride over where God is leading them?

6) We had a full house today (Nicki is probably laughing right now, but its a good day at WABC when you stop counting because you actually made it past 50 folks)! Granted it was Communion Sunday and that might have had something to do with it.

7) I set up our first ever information table today so that we could promote the marriage retreat that is coming up in February. Who gets excited about an information booth? Me!!!!!!!!!

8) I took all of these notes from Marc's message that I planned to share with everyone, but I left them in the car and now I'm to lazy to go out and get them.

9) This evening we went to hear my friend Pam speak. The girl is off the chain! She will be the speaker for our women's weekend event (I can't wait to introduce her to the Women of WABC ).

10) Next week we are holding our first Leaders Weekend. Please keep us in prayer (especially Marc who will be sharing God's vision for WABC in 2009). He started sharing it in his message this morning. He has told us not to get caught up in the process and forget our purpose (which is a message I probably need to take in more then anyone since I tend to suffer from the Martha syndrome).

11) I will officially be taking down the Christmas decorations starting tomorrow (notice I said "starting"). I really enjoyed the holidays but its time to get my home back in order (well, as orderly as it can be).

12) Just in case you hadn't noticed I have been making some changes to my website (including pictures of my family who are my pride and joy). I can't wait to see what God has in store for us in 2009.

13) In addition to the One Year Bible Journal, I am also participating in the 365 Photo project. You can follow that by checking in at my scrap blog.

14) Marc leaned over this evening and told me he needed a vacation! The man just came off of a week from work. The problem with that is that he didn't really take vacation (for those of you who don't know it...he is bi-vocational). He works for a telephone company in addition to fufilling his duties at WABC. He also does work on the side, so that is what he did over vacation. I think he has learned his lesson though, because I have now been given permission to start planning our family vacation (Bama watch out because here we come). Lesson learned for tonight.

One Year Bible Journey

I'm in the process of writing my "Year in Review" (lol....yes, I know it is late). But while you are waiting I thought I would share a year long project my friend Monique introduced me to. Its called the One Year Bible Journey. Basically you are given a group of scriptures to read each day. Mo warns you that you may start out good and fall down, but the important thing is that you get back up (no matter where you are at). This works good for me because I always have good intentions but fall short. No problem there, my kids grew up hearing me say if at first you don't succeed, try, try, try again! So come join the journey (we promise not to judge you, especially if you don't judge...lol).