New Year Resolution for 2012

Every year on New Year’s Eve I mentally write a few resolutions.  Each time I would try to accomplish them and obtain very little positive results.  I am learning that in order to improve my life I must seriously write my resolutions on paper, work on my resolutions daily, and actually see progress over time.

These goals are not something I just try to do.  I don’t just try things anymore!  I focus each and everyday on my goals.  Over time, when I see improvement or results in myself, personally, I become very excited!

Today as I sit before my computer to write my goals for 2012, I remember where I was last year in my life.  The area that I have grown the most in my life is self-confidence.  I have found myself doing things I never thought possible.  I want to continue to become a stronger and a better person.  Shortly before Christmas I read a favorite blog of mine, www.HolleyGerth@blogspot.com.  It is titled, “The Best Gift This Year” and it reads: 

“Have you been to the stores lately?  I’ve seen the shelves piled high with gadgets, new styles, and the latest whatever-you-want. 

And I’m telling you, I think I’ve found the best gift this year.

It’s not available in retail locations, online or for $29.95 plus shipping and handling.

Can you lean in and listen close while I whisper this secret?

Psst…it’s you.

Or, really, Jesus in you.

Yes, my friend, you offer Him to the world in a way no one else can.  And no one else ever will.

You are a one-of-a-kind original.  Not replaceable or exchangeable.

Beautiful just as you are because of your maker.

Designed just as He intended.

More amazing than you even realize

Loved, needed and more valuable than all those fancy things in all the stores in the world.

Yes, Ma’am.

You’re the real deal and don’t you forget it.  Promise?”

I agree with Holley!  God designs not only me, but each of us with our own specialness.  He loves us more than we can comprehend.  When any of us leave this world there will be a void that cannot be replaced.  God has placed combinations of talents and skills in each of us and it is up to each of us to develop them.  I want God to continue molding me just like the potter does with his clay.  Many times that means getting outside of the box and doing things I am not comfortable with.  It means to “Count it all joy when I fall into diverse temptations”, as James 1:2 tells us.  I have experienced the personal growth from this.  It is AMAZING and I LOVE it! 

There are people I help each and everyday in life, whether it is just a smile, an encouraging word, or actual coaching.  It is imperative for me to continue to grow in confidence and to become a stronger person and better Christian in order to help more and more people.  One of my favorite stories is The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King by J.R. Tolkein.  One of the awesome scenes in Tolkein’s writing is when Elrond, founder of Rivendale, encourages Aragorn, a Ranger who is helping the hobbits, a dwarf, the elves, and man.  Elrond admonishes, “Put aside the Ranger, become who you were born to be.”  Aragorn had not become all that he could be yet.  Aragorn had all the characteristics of a Christian king with his humility, healing hands, sacrifice, wisdom, and power over evil.  He did take up his sword and lead the people to victory over the evil ring and became king.

It is the same for me.  I am not all that God has made me to be yet.  But I possess certain God-given characteristics (as all of us possess) that I am developing over time.  It is a goal or resolution or more importantly a prayer of mine to keep on going and growing and becoming all that God created me for.  As I grow stronger each day, I know I will help more and more people.  I can’t wait!

A Christmas Letter To YOU!!

Dear Family and Friends!

We hope this Christmas letter finds you happy, healthy, and blessed!  As we reflect upon 2011, we remember all the blessings The Lord has given us this year and we thank Jesus for all He has done for us.  I just want to share some of these blessings. 

In March our family traveled to Florida to visit a pharmacist colleague and his wife who vacations in Lakeport and another couple in Jupiter.  We had a blast visiting, and watching the St. Louis Cardinals play baseball during spring training.  Toward the later part of the trip we traveled to beautiful Key West.  We rode bikes all over Key West visiting the Hemmingway House, Mallory Square, Fort Zachary Taylor, southernmost point of the U.S.,  the light  and light house,  and the beach.   

Our family traveled to Breckenridge, Colorado, in August for a Rodgers Family Reunion.  We spent several days in those majestic and beautiful mountains with our cousins.  I am so happy that we renewed our friendships with Kevin, Vicki, and Kathy; those three have a special place in my heart since we were all students at Southwest Baptist University together.  We are so thankful our children met the Rodgers cousins for the first time.  I am so happy to have met Linda, Blaine and Theresa as well as several other cousins for the first time; my life is much richer now. 

We all climbed a 12,000 foot mountain together and our children and other cousins climbed a 14,000 foot mountain on another day.  This was a new experience for me, but I am so glad I persevered through all the huffing and puffing and fatigue to reach the top of the mountain. It was worth it all!  I am grateful to Cousin Kevin for watching over our children and I am grateful to Cousin Theresa for being patient with me.  I was the last one to the top and she stayed with me the whole time.  Christopher, our son, has decided he loves all the adventure Colorado has to offer, such as the mountain biking, climbing mountains, and more.  I know the family gathers once every three years for this event; however, I hope it will be sooner.  Just got to say that I do not think I can wait that long for Linda’s great cooking! 

Steve and I have taken  amazing business trips to Kansas City, Missouri and to Atlanta, Georgia this year.  All I can say is, “We are so blessed!”  We have built relationships with so many inspiring and encouraging people.  Our lives have changed in so many ways.  It has been a dream of mine to make a difference in the lives of people.  When people look at me and say, “Thank you.  You have given me the answer to my prayer”, I know am doing just what God wants me to do.

Our oldest daughter, Stephanie, will be graduating from St. John’s School of Radiological Technology and Stephanie desires to find employment in the Springfield, Missouri area.  Our son, Chris, is taking airplane flight lessons, working as a life guard at the YMCA, and playing his guitar and fiddle.  Our youngest daughter, Hannah, will be graduating Home School High School and has aspirations to attend Southwest Baptist University’s Physical Therapy School.

In the picture you see two guys; one is standing by Stephanie, Jeff Hall.  They have been dating for three years.  Jeff lives in Joplin, Missouri and yes, he and his cousin survived the tornadoes.  They lost of most of their belongings, but are getting their feet back on the ground now.  The other guy standing by Hannah is Jorden Luthy.  They have been dating for a year.  We were blessed to witness The Lord saving Jorden and seeing Jorden baptized this past summer.

This is Steve’s 24^th year at the same pharmacy location.  He is a great guy and has provided for our family very well.  We celebrated our 30^th wedding anniversary in June.  Life has been wonderful!

For years I have said, “When I get more time, I will write my memoirs to leave behind to my children!”  Last summer I asked myself, “Am I just going to talk about it, or am I going to just do it?”  I made the decision to write my memoirs, even if it is only one story per week.  I post a story on a blog every week just to keep myself accountable.  As I wrote and posted, there was something that happened to me that I never considered.  I never thought about how much fun all the reminiscing and writing would be.  Each of these memories is a cherished blessing!  I just look at life with a grateful heart more and more.  Each of you has blessed my life in specials ways.  I thank God for YOU!  The blog address is www.teresa-allyouneedislove.blogspot.com if you choose to read any of the stories and perhaps share any memories you have with me.  I would love hearing from you.

We wish you a wonderful and blessed Christmas Time and New Year (2012)!!!!

Steve, Teresa, Stephanie, Chris, and Hannah

Christmas Program Memories

Sunday night we traveled to Half Way Missionary Baptist Church to see the Christmas Program as we have done for the past 24 years.  Much of my husband’s family attends this church.  This particular Christmas Program was like all others except our children are nearly grown up.

“Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be unto all people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.”  The narrator read from Luke 2:10-11.  While the choir sang, “Angels We Have Heard on High”, I watched the group of angels in an assortment of sizes walk and skip down the aisle to stand behind Mary and Joseph in the front of the church.  I smile and glance at Steve who was sitting beside me.  I saw him brush a tear from his eye.  “Are you okay?” I asked.  He responded, “I am just remembering when our children were younger and participated in the Nativity Story.” 

As we hold hands scattered pictures of our children participating in Christmas programs at Half Way Missionary Baptist Church and Bethel Missionary Baptist Church flood my mind.  Visions of our oldest daughter, Stephanie, age two and dressed in a white angel outfit with a beautiful gold halo, smiling with her arms raised upward.  She said, “Hey, Mom, I sure like the way those wings feel on my back!” 

A picture of our son, Chris, arrayed in a royal red robe and crown, carrying his gift of gold to the Baby Jesus.  His robe fanned outward as he proudly walked to the manger. 

And Hannah, tiptoeing down the aisle, angelically.  She was the youngest and the littlest angel!  Her smile glowed that night.  We were blessed to watch nieces and nephews participate with our children.

 

Many more moments filled my mind.  Our children acted each Nativity Character over the years.  And now our children are all grown up.  And it seems like we only took a breath and the years have passed all too quickly.  I am blessed and filled with joy.  I am thankful for all the wonderful cherished memories.

Lately, a friend once shared with me that she was worried about her young children.  I empathized with her and added, “Just enjoy every moment with your children.  You are a GREAT mother.  Your children will learn.  This journey of raising your children is full of joy, remember to look for it! 

Kate Nowak said in her book, May You Be Blessed, “Joy is everywhere and it is only when I refuse to see it that it appears to be absent from my life.”  We can fret about a crisis we are facing and we can fret about times already passed.  When we do that we do not see the joy that is everywhere and we miss today’s blessing.

Sunday evening I watched our children and niece and nephew, ages ranging from 17 to 30, banter with each other.  These kids were still not too big for a goody bag filled with an apple and candy.  They traded and bargained the candy and teased each other about pretty girls to ask out.  I watched an uncle and nephew tease a little girl and boy about stealing their Christmas gifts, and more.  It is not the end of joyful times, but the beginning of a lifetime filled with joy!

“This is the day the Lord hath made; we will  rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalms 118:24

A Pleasant Task

By Hannah Stewart

The aroma of homemade Chex-mix and warm holiday cookies filled the air as we covered our home in Christmas decorations.  Christmas decorating, making Christmas treats, and watching Christmas movies has always been a joyous and pleasant activity because it brings me closer to my family and reminds me of Christ’s birth.

The day after Thanksgiving was always filled with the preparation of homemade Chex-mix and sugar cookies.  The preparation of the Chex-mix was fun for everyone.  We were all given one item that we would drop in a big black and white speckled baking pot.  Mom would pour the warm mixture of Worcestershire sauce, butter, garlic, and onion salt over the pretzels, cereal, and cashews and then gingerly mix all the items together.  After we finished baking the Chex-mix, we started on the cookies.  We would roll out the soft and buttery tasting cookie dough and become covered in flour.  Next, it was time to pick out the snowmen, Christmas trees, angels, Santa, and star cookie cutters to make the various shapes.  After baking was complete we decorated them with colored icing and colored sprinkles.  We ate them until we were nearly sick from the sugar overload.

While the cookies were cooling we opened the Christmas boxes.  We were excited as we took the Christmas decorations out one by one.  The manger scene was my favorite to place on the mantle above the fireplace.  Mom would give us a camel to unwrap and position on the mantle.  The shepherds, kings, and animals were wrapped in newspaper that always had a unique smell that I loved.  Putting the lights on the Christmas tree was eventful.  It was challenging to agree on which lights to wrap around the Christmas tree.  My older sister, Stephanie, preferred the white lights, and my older brother, Christopher and I preferred the colored lights.  After much debate and discussion and laughing, we settled on the colored lights.  The snow village was one of our favorites.  It was especially difficult to find a place for it.  I loved spreading out the cotton that looked like snow, setting up the houses in little rows, and placing the people outside the houses.

At the end of a busy day, we stood back and observed all that we had accomplished.  We were tired to the bone.  It was the perfect time to eat our Christmas snacks while watching Christmas movies.  Finding the Christmas movies was difficult sometimes since they were in the very back of the video cabinet.  We had to decide exactly which one we wanted to watch first.  Frosty The Snowman, The Little Drummer Boy, The Muppets Christmas Carol, Christmas With The Kranks, The Santa Clause, and Rudolf The Red-Nosed Reindeer were some of our choices.  We decided on Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer since he was bold and courageous.  As we watched Rudolf we curled up under a furry warm blanket.  Eating our freshly prepared snacks and drinking the hot chocolate with marshmallows, we felt quite in the Christmas mood.

Mary's Little Boy Child

Many times in life I just need to stop and reflect upon the Gifts of God whether it be the rush of the Christmas Season or any day of the year.  On a particular evening I was sitting in my favorite chair, listening to music, praying to God, and allowing my mind to focus on the love of God. I received a great blessing.

It was during the Christmas Holidays I was rocking one or our children to sleep.  The house was dark except for the Christmas lights on the tree and on the fireplace mantle surrounding the Nativity scene.  Holding and rocking my child, I admired the beauty of the lights and Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, the shepherds, the kings, angels, and so on.  I whispered to my child about the love that came down from Heaven.  At the same time we listened to Christmas music.  One of my favorite Christmas songs, “Mary’s Little Boy Child”, began; I just relaxed and listened to the words of that wonderful song. 

Long time ago in Bethlehem -

So the Holy Bible say,

Mary’s boy child, Jesus Christ,

Was born on Christmas Day

Hark now hear the angel sing,

New King’s born today,

And man will live forevermore -

Because of Christmas Day

Shepherds watched their flocks by night –

They saw a bright, new, shining star

And heard a choir –

From Heaven sing,

The music came from afar

Hark now hear the angel sing,

New King’s born today,

And man will live forevermore -

Because of Christmas Day

Now, Joseph and his wife, Mary –

Came to Bethlehem that night,

They found no place to bear her child,

Not a single room was in sight,

By and by they found a little nook

In a stable all forlorn,

And in a manger, cold and dark,

Mary’s little boy child was born,

Trumpets sound and angels sing,

Listen to what they say,

That man will live forevermore

Because of Christmas Day.

As I rocked and listened, I was grateful to be a mother.  There is no words to describe the feeling of rocking my children to sleep, holding and hugging them and feeling his or her softness, smelling their sweetness, and loving them.  When the song ended, I thought that Mary must have had these same feelings. 

I wondered if Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the wise men have any stress like all of us do to some extent.  Of course, they did.  You see, I had allowed trials to dim my view of the blessings of this Christmas.  Everything had to be just right, I had to please everyone, attend events, shop, bake, and the list goes on.  We have all been here sometime whether it is Christmas or just life in general.  On that evening I was frustrated.

I looked at Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the wise men again.  They all came to see the Christ Child and they all needed Jesus, as do all of us.  I was reminded and realized that Jesus wants us to come to Him and allow Him to take the stress and the burdens away.  He only wants us to trust Him.  How difficult can that be?  I felt a quiet peacefulness there in the family room holding my child and I knew God was and will continue to be in control of my life.  I felt the stress diminish and disappear.  I felt like I was wrapped in Jesus’ arms just as my child was wrapped in my arms.

I stood up and carried my sleeping child to their crib.  Right before I laid them down, I kissed their sweet head.  I walked back into the family room to turn the music and the Christmas lights off and I remembered one of my favorite Bible verses found in Luke 2:10 -11, “Fear not:  for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David of Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Is Santa Claus Real or a Fairy Tale?

When I became 6 years old, I began to question the realness of Santa Claus from little things people said.  I, also, could not imagine my parents lying to me about this.  I was confused until one Christmas…

“It is time for you kids to hop in bed and go to sleep or Santa will not come!” my parents told my younger brother, Buddy, and me.  It is always so difficult to fall asleep on Christmas Eve.  I tried to stay awake, because I longed to see Santa Claus.  Is he real or not?  I awoke Christmas morning; in fact, I awoke before anyone.  I listened for noise in the kitchen.  No one was up yet so I quietly slipped out of bed and slowly crept to the family room to look for the gifts under the Christmas tree.

I stopped in my tracks and quickly took in a breath of air!  The tree appeared to be just as it was the day before.  Nothing!  No gifts!  I thought that maybe Santa had not arrived yet.  He is busy, but it was daylight.  No, that was not it.  My next thought was that my brother and I did not earn our gifts by being good kids.  I tried everyday, but I must not have been good enough.  Holding my head down, I slowly walked back to bed.  As I lay there, I cried a little as I thought the whole situation over.

Shortly, I heard my parents brewing coffee and preparing breakfast.  I heard my Mom tell my Dad that she was going to put the gifts under the tree, while he went to milk the cows at my grandparent’s farm.  “What?” I questioned my Mom’s statement.  I heard my Dad leave in his rumbling truck and my Mom drag a huge box into the family room.  I snuck out of bed and tiptoed to the family room for the second time that morning.  I witness my Mom setting wrapped gifts under the tree.  “Hmmmm.”  I went back to bed to think some more. 

I concluded that there is no Santa Claus, because Santa Claus puts gifts under the tree, not my parents.  Where did the gifts come from?  I decided the gifts were from my parents.  I pondered this for a few minutes.  I thought, “Wow, it certainly was nice of them!”  I felt happy to know they cared so much.  Should I tell my parents that I knew?  Should I tell my brother?  No, absolutely not.  Why should I ruin all the fun my parents were having?  And why should I ruin it all for my brother?  I decided to play along with their little scheme.  After all it was going to be a great Christmas Day!

A few Christmases later my brother was 6 years old and I was 8 years old.  His peers at school told him that there was no Santa Claus.  He was devastated.  At supper my parents told both of us there is no Santa Claus.  Buddy was crying.  My parents looked at me questioningly.  I said, “I know!  I had known for a long time.”  “What?  How did you find out?  And why didn’t you share that information with us?”  I told them the whole story.  I am a mature 8 years old and not a baby anymore!

They were both quite surprised!  My Dad said laughingly, “Well, I guess the joke has been on us the whole time!  We thought you didn’t know, but we were the ones who didn’t know!” 

The Beautiful White Nativity Scene in the Word, Love!

The night my husband, Steve, and I signed the dotted line to become a part of an amazing company two years ago, I never knew just how much this company would impact our lives.  I never knew how thrilled I would be just to share the concept of this company with people.  I never knew I would grow into a stronger person and a better Christian.  I never knew how many people I could help everyday.  I never thought about the kind of people I would meet and the close relationships I would build.  I am grateful.   

Approximately two weeks ago I shared Team National with a great couple, Darrell and Suzie, who quickly became business partners!  We have spent hours building a business together, growing in personal development, and having a blast!

One morning I received a text from Suzie.  It read, “Joy, Hope, or Love.  Which would you choose?”  I responded, “Love because that includes joy and hope.  What are you doing?”  Suzie replied, “You will see.”  I thought that it was probably a survey or something.  I trusted Suzie would tell me tonight after we shared Team National.  And sure enough she did.  It was unexpected.

“Here is something for you!” Suzie says as she pulls a beautiful gift bag from the back seat of her car and hands it to me.  “Suzie, you do not have to do this!”  I respond.  “I know.”  I begin to open the gift.  It was difficult get the taped bubble wrap undone.  I could see through the bubble wrap that it is a nativity figure.  “Oh, Suzie” It is a beautiful white nativity scene in the middle of the “O” in the word Love.  “It is beautiful!  Did you know that I collect nativity scenes?”  Suzie smiled, shook her head no, and said, “I do, too!”  She then showed me how to turn the lighted star on above the Baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph.  “Oh, I love it.  It is sooo beautiful.  I am going to find the perfect place for it tonight!”  I hugged Suzie and said, “Thank you!”

Walking through the front door of my home holding the “Beautiful White Nativity in the Word, Love, I was overwhelmed with different emotions.  Emotions like hope, joy, and love for my new friend.  At the moment I knelt on the floor by the couch to pray for Darrell and Suzie and to thank God for them.  I asked for God’s blessing in our journey together for we are only beginning. 

I couldn’t wait for Steve and our daughter, Hannah to walk through the back door.  I placed the Beautiful White Nativity in the Word, Love on the mantle above the fireplace.  I was wondering who would notice first.  It was less than five minutes when Hannah exclaimed, “That is really pretty.    Where did you get that?”  Steve said, “Wow.”  I excitedly replied, “Suzie gave it to me!  “Isn’t it beautiful?  And Suzie is such a special person.”

As I admire the nativity I am pondering the events in my Team National life.  You see, God brought this company to Steve and I; it was an answer to prayer.  The Baby Jesus, or rather Jesus answers prayer.  Two years ago Steve and I chose the name, “All You Need Is Love”, for our business, not because we are Beatles fans necessarily.  We chose the name because we love people and we want to help people.  It is also the name of this blog because of the love I have for the people in my life.  The word “love” in the nativity figure, for me, represents the love in the title of our business and my blog.  Do you think this is a coincidence?  I think this happened for a reason. 

 

I am filled with excitement for the blessed journey ahead of us in climbing to the top!  For I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that as the TCB teams continue to have fun sharing Team National our team grows and grows.

Be Thankful

Each year in September I remove from storage my fall decorations.  Replicas of Pilgrims, Indians, and a harvest of food cover the mantle above our fireplace.  About every year a new set of pilgrims and/or Indians are added to my ever growing population.  Pilgrims and Indians represent a time of thankfulness.

As I see those pilgrims and Indians today, I recall my third grade elementary teacher making an assignment for us to write ten blessings we are thankful for in our neatest handwriting. I would have rather colored a turkey.  “Every one of you has something to write on this paper!” the teacher confidently said.  At that time in my life, I took so many aspects of my life for granted that I did not write much on the paper.  As I matured, I realized that I do have a tremendous amount of blessings to thank God for. Now I keep a journal in which I write at least 2-3 times per week.  In these writings I include a blessing count. 

Being thankful should be an every day habit.  If I were to do the assignment given by my third grade teacher today, it would be difficult to only write ten blessings.  Here is my top ten for 2011:  1) being married to a great guy for 30 wonderful years, 2) having three great kids who are wise and fun to be with, 3) having a wonderful church family who pray for us, 4) God healing Hannah, my youngest daughter, of a severe virus, 5) our Team National Family and coaching from a great friend and business partner, 6) God's protection over Jeff and his cousin, Nick during the tornadoes in Joplin, 7) growing into a stronger person/better Christian (confident, bold, assertive, excited leader), 8) Steve’s Mom and my parents, 9) Jane’s healing from cancer, and 10) God saving Hannah’s friend, Jorden.

God is so good!!! 

Lastly, I am sharing that even when life seems to be a challenge and I have to search for something to be thankful for.  I find something to be thankful for.  These challenges mold us into the vessel God wants us to be, unless we decide to become bitter instead of better.  I love this old hymn written by Johnson Oatman, Jr. and Edwin O. Excell.  This is the first verse and chorus.

Count Your Blessings 

When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed.

When you are discouraged thinking all is lost,

Count your many blessings; name them one by one,

And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Count your blessings name them one by one

Count your many blessings see what God hath done.

This coming week is Thanksgiving.  Share with me something you are thankful for.  



      

Do The Funky Lady!

Being a parent is a wonderful and blessed experience.  I am thankful that I had the opportunity to be a volunteer in the clubs my children participated in.  During these growing up years, I have developed many treasured friendships.  This experience I am sharing is just one of many great days I spent serving others and having fun!!!

One morning Hannah and I were driving to the 4-H Extension Office to volunteer our services to prepare for an upcoming event.  We turned the volume up on the radio loud and we began singing along with the rock band, Aerosmith.  It was a song from the movie, “Mrs. Doubtfire”, in which we had recently viewed.  “Do the funky lady!” I sang. “Are you for real, Mom?  Those are NOT the words to that song!”, exclaimed Hannah.  “They are, ‘Dude looks like a lady!’” said Hannah as she laughed and laughed.  “Are you serious?  Those words could very well work because Mrs. Doubtfire was quite funky!” and I began laughing at myself.

Smiling, Kim, the 4-H Extension Office Secretary, greeted us with a warm hug as we entered the office!  The three of us were chatting and laughing just catching up on the latest news with our families.  Suddenly, I was curious.  I wondered if Kim saw the movie and heard the song.  I asked, “Did you ever watch the movie, “Mrs. Doubtfire”?”  Kim says, “Why, yes, the boys and I really enjoyed it this past weekend!”  “Hannah and I were listening to the theme song from the movie on the way here.  I thought the words were “Do the funky lady!” I said laughing.  “Oh!  I thought that is what it said, too!” agreed Kim as she shook her head side to side and snapped her fingers.  “What are the words?”  Hannah says, “Dude looks like a lady!” as she shakes her head side to side!  Hannah was probably thinking, “Oh my goodness!  These two Moms are something else!”  All of us broke out laughing again.

When I established this blog last summer, the goal was to keep me accountable in writing my memoirs for my children and to bring joy to my followers.  I spent years just talking about writing my memoirs until one day I made the decision to just do it.  Much to my surprise writing my blog weekly has produced more joy and laughter in my life.  I truly love what I am doing.  Everyday I can’t wait to write the next story and share it.  As I reflect and write my memories on paper, I realize more and more just how much God has blessed my life.  Yakov Smirnoff said “I believe that love and laughter can only happen when one person takes the time to think about what would cause the other person to feel good.”


 

We Choose!

We choose our attitude in life.  We choose to be kind to people.  We choose to be happy for the blessings in life.  We choose to put our trust in Our Lord and Savior, or to doubt Him.  It is easy to choose to be happy, when everything is going our way.  What do we choose when we are faced with a challenge?  Over and over in my life, God allows my faith to be tested in these areas.

 

Recently my youngest daughter, Hannah, spent a few days sick in bed.  Aching in nearly every muscle and joint in her body, she required assistance in walking and turning over in bed.  One day she could not lift her arms to eat; I fed her potato soup and a turkey sandwich that day.  Her blood pressure was as low as 72/44 on the first visit with the doctor.  The doctor, also, ordered many blood tests for lyme disease, some 200 different bacterial infections, cat scratch fever, and auto immune illnesses.   

Needless to say I struggled with worry and trusting God.  Every time a negative thought entered my mind, I replaced it with a positive thought. I reminded myself that God is in control and loves us more than my mind can ever conceive.

After the first doctor visit, I picked up the antibiotics for Hannah.  Being thankful to have antibiotics for Hannah’s recovery, I met a dear friend in line behind me. She asked, “How are you and your family?”  I shared with her about Hannah’s health situation.  The young lady, a checker, named MacKenzie, listened to the conversation and exclaimed, “I had those same symptoms last summer.  It was really bad, but I got better.  The doctor ran blood tests and could not determine the illness, but I recovered fully.”  In my heart I believed Hannah would recover, but I all the same appreciated those encouraging words.

On another doctor visit Hannah was leaning into me, while I had my arm around her.  I was holding her up so she could walk to the van.  Two young men were standing by a car when one of them said, “Are you having a decent day?”  I said, “What?”  The boy repeated, “Are you having a decent day?”  My first thought was, “Really?  You are kidding?  We are struggling out of the doctor’s office and feeling terrible and you ask a question like that?”  The more appropriate question would have been, “How can we help you?”  Refraining from being sarcastic, I remembered that every day is a gift from God and I wanted to choose to be happy.  I replied kindly, “No, we are having a wonderful day!”  Surprised, the boy said, “Really?  Well, that is good.”

That night I prayed.  Hannah could not lift her arms to feed herself.  As I stood in front of the stove warming a bowl of soup up for Hannah, doubts began creeping in my mind.  Thoughts such as her muscles are breaking down and so forth.  I prayed.  And then the young lady from Smitty’s Grocery appeared in my mind.  MacKenzie survived healthy.  It is viral regardless of the test results that said negative.  Hannah will be healthy, too.  I felt peace.  I believe God puts people in your life for a reason.  MacKenzie was sent from God!  She is a blessing; her story kept me hanging onto the faith.

Late, the next afternoon, I traveled to the doctor’s office to update the doctor on Hannah’s condition and check on the blood tests.  The nurse sate down with me in the waiting room.  I smiled and informed the nurse, “Hannah says her behind is sore.  We are walking more just around the house and I am letting her move as much on her own as possible no matter how much it hurts her.”  Nicole, the nurse, said, “That is perfect!  She must move around or other conditions such as pneumonia could set in.  Most of the test results are returning negative.  Dr. Brus has decided that Hannah has a virus that has really gotten her down.”  “Virus?  That is good news!”, I said with tears in my eyes.  “Yes, it really is!” 

On Friday, Dr. Brus walks in the room and says, “What is this, no wheel chair today?”  We had to use a wheel chair for all the other visits.  We just smile and say you are right.  He then informs us, “Hannah, you are 1 out of 500 people who have these severe flu symptoms!”  Hannah smiles and she replies, “I am a special person!”  “I want to see you next week just to check on your recovery.  You are no longer contagious and you can do what physical activity you feel strong enough to do!”  Those were sweet words and I thanked God as we walked to the van.

Hannah’s condition improved greatly over the next couple of days.  I continued to think about MacKenzie and how she helped me with her story.  I decided to look her up at Smitty’s to thank her.  I found her in the break room.  “MacKenzie, I so appreciate your sharing with me that you had the same condition as Hannah and that I have come personally to tell you thank you.  I want you to know that you are a blessing and a gift.  Your story kept me hanging on to the faith!”  She smiled quietly and sweetly said, “Thank you”.

I do not want to forget the prayers from great friends, who called several times checking on Hannah, and my brothers and sisters at church who prayed and called.  And for Grams whose support and help go beyond saying.  God is so good! 

Armadillos and Thongs?

There are many times I have had the honor and privilege of visiting with friends.  We share ambitions, thoughts, joys, and blessings.  I am thankful for good friends who share hilarious, real life stories with me.  At this moment I am recalling a couple of stories my friend, Tammy Johnson shared with me that make my heart laugh.

Tammy was driving to camp and as she came up the hill she saw a family of armadillos crossing the road.  With no time to stop…her car went bump bum pity bum up the hill.  Tammy was thinking, “I hope that didn’t damage my car!”  After she was at camp for a while the Majerus girls came in to work and said, “You should of seen the road, there was a massacre of armadillos all over!” Tammy said, “Yes, I hit them.  It was awful…bump bum pity bump….”

Throughout my life time I have found that the names of things change and it can be challenging to switch names.  For instance, believe it or not, growing up in the 60’s and 70’s flip flops were called “thongs”. My friends, Tammy and her four children, Sarah, Jacob, Halley, and Russell were selling fireworks to the public for the 4^th of July under a tent.  During the shift change Russell and one of his siblings were headed to the car.  Suddenly, Tammy observed that Russell, age 8, had forgotten his flip flops.  Hurriedly, Tammy picked up the flip flops and yelled,   “Russell, don’t forget your thongs!” as she waved them in the air.  “Here they are!”  Customers and employees looked up and around with questioning and puzzled looks on their faces.  It was as if you could read their thoughts.  “A little boy has thongs?”  “What is Russell doing with thongs?”  Chuckling, Sarah said, “Mom, I think you mean flip flops!

God forbid I would ever be sad.  But if I do feel sad, then I remember all God has blessed me with.  I recall such stories as these two.  You see, God allows us to choose our thoughts everyday.  We write the story of our life.  And I just want to say that the joy and happiness I feel in my heart are because of God’s blessings.  My friend and these stories are just some of His gifts to me. 

October People and Mud Puddles

 Growing up in Polk County 40 years ago, Halloween was much different than it is today.  It was a time to dress in a fun costume just to let people try to guess who you are.  It was about going to friends’ homes to visit and to receive huge amounts of candy that would last for months.  It was communities of families gathering for fellowship. 

In the second grade I attended a rural elementary school in Polk County.  I was a student in Mrs. Cansler’s class.  She taught two grades in the same room; the grades were first and second.  I learned a lot and enjoyed the experience greatly.  That autumn Mrs. Cansler announced that there would be an All School Halloween Party for students (grades 1-6) and their families.  Everyone could dress up in costume, and an award for the best costume would be given.  There would be a hot dog roast, marshmallows could be toasted, and games.

I could not wait.  My mother helped me choose a cat costume complete with tail and whiskers.  My brother chose his, too, which was a pirate.  Later, I heard my parents talking.  My Dad was going to dress up including one of his friends.  He was going to cut the tail off of is horse to use for a wig in his hobo costume.  “Whatever you do, keep this a secret.  We want to surprise everyone!” he told me.  I wanted very much to share my information with a friend at school the next day, but I remain true to my Dad’s wishes.

On the night of the event I saw my Dad and his friend, Clifford come in the front door of the school.  Friends were looking at the two strangers and each other wondering who in the world these two outrageous people could be!?  Whenever anyone approached them they stomped their feet and shook their fists or fingers.  Even though I knew it was my Dad, it still frightened me a little.

Shortly, all the students of Polk School lined up on the stage for people to vote on the best costume for each grade.  It was fun whether you won or not.  The adults lined up and My Dad and Clifford came on the stage.  They would not take off their masks, shaking their fists and stepping away from Mrs. Cansler.  However, she was undaunted and finally yanked their masks off.  The whole room full of people exploded with laughter, as they discovered who the two characters were, and not expecting either to be so outrageous and daring!

After the costume judging, we all proceeded to the bonfire to roast hotdogs and marshmallows.  While eating a couple of boys walked up to several of us younger girl students.  They said, “I bet you are too scared to walk around the music building like we just did!”  My friend, Sharon, exclaimed, “We certainly are not scared of anything!”  She was not going to let any boy outwit or outdo her! 

Several of us began slowly walking around the building which had one dark side on the last corner of the building.  Just as we were rounded the corner those ornery boys jumped out at us.  Being only 7 years old and very naïve, I did not expect the boys to deceive us in that way!  I was startled and the adrenaline kicked in.  I ran ahead of everyone straight to safety, the community of friends, at the bonfire.  There was a huge mud puddle that I forgot about.  I saw it, but could not slow down.  I ran right through it and lost my shoe in the middle of the quagmire!  Yuck!

I turned around hopping on one foot, stopping my sprint at last.  One of the Dads reached in the puddle and pulled my shoe out and handed it to me.   I put my squishy shoe back on and walked around for it to dry out.  I only laughed at the comical situation and decided to learn from the experience.  Goodness gracious, there will be an opportunity to give those boys a scare of their own in the future.

I am grateful for the camaraderie I felt with fellow classmates, their families and my teachers.  Relationships are what life is all about!  Proverbs 19:24 says, “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly; and there is a friend that sticketh closer that a brother.” 

The Balloon Scare

“Are we there yet?  How much longer will we have to ride in this van?”  “Can we get a balloon?”  Stephanie, Christopher, and Hannah impatiently probed Steve and I with questions.   “We are almost there.  Watch for the Missouri State Fair sign!” Steve smiled and answered.  From visiting 4-H exhibits, to watching the Missouri Conservation Department’s huge catfish, are activities we loved for 18 consecutive years.  Even helium balloons possessed much excitement for the whole family one year.

  

As Steve parked the van, Stephanie gasped, “I see the Ferris wheel!  Oh, can we ride the Merry Go Round?”  Christopher cried, “Can we see the horses?”  “Of course we can, but allow me to park the van.”  We quickly applied sunscreen to our faces, arms, and legs, gathered a tote bag with needed items, and hitched a ride on the tram to the front gate.  “Finally we are here!” exclaimed Stephanie.

As we entered the fair grounds, several minutes later, we mapped out our plan in our tour of the exhibits.  We visited 4-H project exhibits, a wild cat show, wild life with the Missouri Conservation Department, a pig race, horse judging, and more.  When we became tired or hungry, we rested and ate.  The Missouri Pork Association Pork Chop Place was a healthy restaurant to eat at.

At one exhibit, individuals gave our children helium balloons.  They carried those balloons tied to their wrists all afternoon.  When the day began to cool off around 7 pm, we purchased tickets for kiddie amusement rides.  The Merry go round, cars, trucks, and a small roller coaster will quite the rave for our children.  It brought so much joy to me to watch their smiling faces as I held their helium balloons.  We could not let them go! 

On the way back to the front gate, we purchase cotton candy to eat on the way home.  We walked the long way back exhausted.  It had been a fantastic day.  After the kids were seat belted in we secured the balloons to a handle on the seat or arm on a seat.  It would be a sad day to lose those balloons.  I looked back at the kids observing dirt, grim, sweat, and stick cotton candy on their hands and faces while they slept.  

Two and a half hours later we parked the van in the driveway.  “We are home now.  It’s time to get up and go to bed.”  I said.  Even though it was approximately midnight to 1 a.m., some took showers before falling into bed.  It felt so good to shower all the day’s dirt away from our bodies.  However, the most important part was to tie the balloons to the chairs by the kitchen table. 

Waking up in the wee hours of the morning, I was thirsty.  I gingerly and quietly slipped out of bed to tip toe to the kitchen leaving the lights off; I did not want to wake anyone up.  Suddenly, I spied what appeared to be two heads of people standing at the table and moving slightly side to side.  I froze and stifled a yell.  I choked back these words, “What do you think you are doing in our home?”  I stood paralyzed!

I stood in place for a few seconds and observed something that indicated these heads were not people.  Standing approximately 5 feet high, these people had no shoulders, arms, torso, legs, and so on.  I recognized and remembered the balloons.  Whew!  I let out a sigh of relief!  At first glance, in the dark the balloons looked so much like people.  I laughed at myself and walked to the refrigerator for my water.  I drank and returned to get some needed sleep, thankful that it was the balloons only, and thankful I did not wake everyone up.

I read in a book, Peace Pilgrim, this statement,  “If you realize how powerful your thoughts are, you would never think a negative thought.”  If we allow our imaginations to play tricks on us, a situation can seem to be fearful.  I could have screamed and frightened every family member.  But when I stopped myself from yelling and remained in control.  I allowed my mind to focus on what was real and I saw the truth.  The balloons were at the kitchen table, not people in the middle of the night. 

Over The Top Of Thrill Hill

“Teresa, you ornery thing!!!” my Dad exclaimed as we flew over a steep hill in rural Half Way, Missouri.  This steep hill known as Thrill Hill has provided a roller coaster experience for our family and friends.  Over the years my family has a few Thrill Hill tales to share.

One of my first experiences was at age18.  I was driving my Mom, Dad, and Grandpa back home early one morning.  My Dad and Grandpa were nearly asleep in the backseat of the Oldsmobile and oblivious to our location.  As we approached Thrill Hill, I decided to gain speed and just as we began to top the hill I removed my foot from the gas pedal.  This gave everyone a flying sensation.  My Dad and Grandpa were startled and I heard my Dad gasp!  Grandpa and Mom snickered as my Dad made verbal exclamations.

Another experience was with our three children.  Steve and I were driving to Papa and Meme’s (my parents) for a visit.  “Are we there yet?  Hannah is bothering me!  Chris is on my side!”  As usual our three kids were restless riding in the car so we decided to give them a little ride down Thrill Hill.  Three sets of eyes grew in diameter and three mouths opened wide.  “Ohhhhhh!!”  And then three faces with dancing eyes and smiles were laughing.  “Do that again!”

Another time Hannah dropped something on the floor of the van.  She unfastened her seat belt to retrieve the item.  Just as she set back up, her behind lifted up off the seat.  “Whoa!  It felt like the van came off the road and was flying!”

Today when we are all riding together which is rare, we just hope to catch someone unaware of their surroundings!  Surprise!  Another short Thrill Hill ride.

Overnight Camping Adventures

 

This great family memoir is written by my daughter, Hannah Stewart.

Woof  wooooof!  The ominous howl of the coyotes creeping outside our tent was enough to send chills down my spine.  Our camping trip was both entertaining and adventurous because we had bees in our tent, coyotes howling outside our tent, and our cat scaring us.

As soon as we had set up the tent, some uninvited friends came, and I did not like them very much.  Ouch, ouch something was stinging us. BEES!  The black and yellow bugs flying inside our tent looked vicious.  They thought they had found a new home.  Mom put some honey in the tent to catch them.  After an hour or two, we went outside to see if they were still there.  Some of them were stuck to the honey and the other had left.  Now we were ready for bed.  We put our sleeping bags down, and started setting in for the night.

The coyotes were starting to come out and howl.  I hated that sound;  it gave me cold chills.  I could hear the crunching of the leaves where the coyotes were walking.  Then one howled, it was so loud it seemed like they were right outside our tent.  I looked out one of the windows of the tent to see how close they were.  And I saw two or three walking around the tent.  Watching them circle out tent was so nerve-racking.  I just wanted to run inside the house.  The coyotes finally decided to leave, and I was almost asleep, when I heard something.  What happened next scared me the most.

Witnessing the zipper on the tent go up was one of the most horrifying thing to see and hear.  I felt like I was frozen, unable to move or scream.  I told myself that there was a logical explanation for this.  I was relieved when I saw that it was one of my cats, Star.  He wanted to sleep with us.  The rest of the night was calm and I actually got some sleep.

Stephanie's Dream

I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to be a stay at home mother and a homeschooling mother for 19 years.  I have successfully home educated all three of our children.  As a Mother I have encouraged and helped my children to reach for their dreams and to set their goals and strive for them.

I recall my oldest daughter, Stephanie, wanted to attend college.  It was an unknown journey for her and she was a little anxious.  Of course everybody has their opinion concerning her goals and endeavors.  Some thought girls have no business going off to college; they should be keepers of the home.  Now mind you being a wife and mother is amazing and a very rewarding and a high calling.  There is a time for everything.  Stephanie wanted to continue learning, but never forsaking the part of her dream where she meets Mr. Wonderful and someday Stephanie will be a keeper of her home in God’s timing.  And then some thought it dangerous to leave home to go to college.  The fear being she would forget all about Jesus!  In fact, He was the one who gave her the dream!  Needless to say she held onto her dream!

 

Stephanie, a Southwest Baptist University freshman, dreamed of a career in Radiology Technology.  There was much hard work and perseverance to complete each requirement such as biology, chemistry, algebra, and other basic classes.  It was challenging at times and yes, she was stretched more than she thought she could ever be.  She began applying to three Radiology Schools.  She was not accepted to any school the first year she applied.  Stephanie was disappointed.  She even thought of quitting.  Was I going to let her quit?  Absolutely not!!!  I suggested to her to go back to Southwest Baptist University to complete her biology degree and apply again next year.  She completed a Bachelor of Science in biology and applied again to Radiology School.  She received two letters with a no answer again.  I told her you only need to be accepted to one.  And sure enough the next letter was a yes!

She is a student at St. John’s Radiologic Technology School now.  She is still jumping through all the loops to complete the degree and depending on God to help her.  She is being successful and only has one year left.  I will add that someday Stephanie will be a keeper of the home in God’s timing.  She still serves the Lord and gives Him glory in all He does for her.  I am so glad she did not give up on her dream.

Our 4th Grade Play

Being a 4^th grade student of Mrs. Pursley at Leonard Elementary School I learned a lot.  There were even times that I experienced life lessons.  As I reflect, I understand I have been allowed to decide the path my life takes.  I can choose to empower myself and others with gratefulness and happiness, or not.   

Our class was given the opportunity to present a play about kings and queens.  Excitement was building as we prepared.  We read the play aloud, decorated props, chose a time, and studied the different characters, and invited parents.

It was decided to use parliamentary procedure to place the student with the characters in the play.  There were three or four speaking parts I desired greatly.  I was nominated, but not elected.  However, I was chosen for a nonspeaking part in which I was to water the ducks.  I thought, “Well, that is just wonderful!”  I was disappointed. 

My family encouraged me to be the best “duck waterer” the class ever had.  Slowly, I began putting my heart into it.  I chose an outfit from my mother’s clothing and found a beautiful watering pitcher.  I pretended to water the ducks with tender loving care.  However, my heart was into watching my peers practice!  The teacher encouraged them to put expression with their words, and I loved every minute of it.  As I rode the school bus home, I would sit and just read the play two or three times through everyday for weeks.

When opening day arrived, I was excited to water the ducks.  The play went great.  The next day we were to present the play to our parents.  When our teacher entered the classroom that morning, she had an announcement.  With a sober expression on her face she said, “I am sorry to say that Dennis is sick with a respiratory infection.”  I empathized with the illness since I had endured many respiratory infections myself; and, I was sad he was sick.  Mrs. Pursley continued to share that Dennis would not be in school and would not be participating in the play.  This left our play in a dilemma.  We needed an actor for the part.  Who could pull this off at the spur of the moment?  It was decided to have try outs.  And that is what I did.  I tried out and in fact I had the lines memorized.  I remember seeing my teacher’s mouth drop open.  After the try outs the teacher and student teacher presented the part to me.  And I was thrilled.

We had two rehearsals before the play and then it was show time.  My mother was in the audience and had no idea I was to act a new part.  The play was great!  My mother would have been thrilled with me no matter what part I had.

Life is full of choices.  I had a choice to linger in disappointment or hasten on in excitement for the production.   I am thankful my mother encouraged me to be my best.  I am thankful I chose to take my mother’s advice, to be happy, to keep a positive attitude, and to enjoy every aspect of the play.  When a classmate became sick and the production of the play was challenged, I was prepared.  When I took the speaking part, my spot was vacant.  My friend was thrilled to take my duck waterer part and another classmate who did not have a part at all got a part in the play.  In fact, I helped my teachers, the whole cast of the play, the parents, and the sick boy.  Actually, the most rewarding part of my experience was helping all those people.

If I had chosen to wallow in self pity and disappointment, then I would have helped no one.  As a mother, I encourage my children to be winners instead of whiners.  Life has many twists and turns.  And who knows where a positive uplifting attitude will lead you down this journey of life.