You Control the Doorway

Sticks & stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me!" We've said that, but did we REALLY MEAN it -- "words will never hurt me"? Actually, there have been times that words DID hurt. Someone spoke negatively about us or something we did when we gave something our all, or someone spoke ugly about one of our kids or family members. But we really don't have to accept those words or let them into the doorway of our hearts and minds.

I love what Joel Osteen said in his post yesterday....."The Scripture tells us to guard our mind. You control the doorway to what you’re going to allow in. You can dwell on every negative thing people have said, every derogatory comment, or you can choose to delete it and dwell on what God says about you." YES! I agree with Joel again! Let's hit the "DELETE" button on those words that come to us from others -- especially from the enemy of our souls that keeps trying to take us down with his nasty words of defeat and fear. WE ARE WINNERS -- he's the LOSER!! Now SHUT THAT DOOR!!

Use the Gifts God Has Given You

Jesus told the Parable of the Talents -- a story He taught to help us know the importance of using the gifts and talents He's given us. When the servants used their talents wisely, the Master said, "Well done, good and faithful servants ...enter into the joy of the Lord!" And to the one who buried his talents, he was banished from the Master's presence. (Matthew 25:14-30)It wasn't so much what they were given -- it's what they did with what they were given that mattered.

So what talents have you been given? Are you a great cook? How about investing in your children and grandchildren by teaching them how to cook? Wouldn't that be a great example of multiplying your talents? Are you great at sports? Use those athletic talents to teach and encourage others in their athletic abilities. How about being a part of a girls' or boy's club where you invest in kids becoming the best they can be -- helping them discover their abilities and talents. Are you an aspiring artist and you recognize you have been given special abilities? Then continue to train, practice and become skilled in your craft -- and spread those talents to others. We are stewards of our wealth, and I use wealth very loosely here, well beyond material possessions. For example, if I can write and speak fairly well, those are talents entrusted to me. I can bury them in the ground out of fear, or I can push out of my shell and strive to create increase for all.

Joel Osteen said, "Don't just coast through life relying on what you've already learned. There is skill, talent and potential put in you by the Creator of the universe, but you have to develop it." -- Joel Osteen

I completely agree with Joel. I have no intention of coasting through life -- in fact I'm on the fast train to do more, be more, live more, learn more and celebrate my Creator's gifts to me! There's room for you on this train -- won't you join me?

Lord, Please Give Me Patience....NOW!

Our generation seems to have little patience for waiting. Road rage is seen when there's someone moving way too slow in traffic. And there's those times when we're put on hold on a telephone call, or when we're placed in yet another queue trying to get to the right customer representative. We talk about slow Internet connections -- waiting for a page to load often feels like an eternity. And, I don't think I've ever encountered the long time wait there is at the traffic lights here in Washington. It seems the demand for instant results has seeped into every corner of our lives. We sacrifice eating healthy food by eating at "FAST" food restaurants -- all too often.

And, the fact is -- we do need MORE patience....and we need it NOW! No question about it, patience isn't easy. It takes practice. And, really takes a lot of inner strength to trust that this delay or situation is a needed hold-up so that I will keep us on pace with God's perfect timing on all that concerns me.

If we allow impatience to cause stress and anger and anxiety, then we're not hearing the "music" or the "symphony" -- the beauty of life going on around us. The music that is in our lives can only be fully recognized, experienced, and played out when we breathe, enjoy, let go and stop rushing around -- then patience and enjoyment of the moment will pervade our lives.

"But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." James 1:4 -- Oh Lord, I desire that patience has its perfect work in me. I want to enjoy YOUR symphony that is all around me!

The "You Are Special" Plate of Building Love and Confidence

It's "Special Plate" day for my special son, Ryan! It's his birthday! Everyone gets to tell him how special he is to them! I love what he shares here about their family tradition of "The Special Plate"! Maybe it's time you and your family have special plate days, too! It is sure a confidence builder to those we love!

"People often ask me “How do you do it?” How do I spend so much focused time with my family, at work, training for marathons and with philanthropic causes and still manage to make the time high value and high quality? As I’ve talked about in a previous blog, it is all about living with purpose.

We tend to live in a microwave and fast-food society where we want everything immediately and as cheap as possible. But throughout my life I’ve found that enduring results and reward actually come through consistently doing the right thing with consistency over a long period of time. A good family friend, Tommy Thompson, said to me when our eldest son, Braden, was just 6 years old, “You can never really have quality time with your children unless you have quantity time with them, because you never know when the quality moments will sneak up on you.” There is nothing fast or microwaveable about that.

Early on in our sons’ lives, I decided as a father it was going to be important to establish traditions that could be carried through each of our children’s lives and then be passed down through generations. These traditions would build character, intelligence, values and a heritage. The traditions would also foster a high degree of self-worth and create precious moments with our children.

This is the first of a series of blogs that talks about these different traditions my wife, Shawntel, and I have developed and why I believe they have had a positive impact on our children’s lives and our own as parents.

We have a special red plate that says, “You are special today.” It has become a great symbol in our household. This red plate is placed where our sons sit at the table on days we feel are special or significant for them – it can be a birthday, a graduation, special sporting event or accomplishment, or it could even be the day of a doctor’s appointment. When one of our boys is going to be celebrated, he comes to the table and see the plate in his spot. Immediately, a smile brightens his face because he knows that this morning is his morning. He will get his favorite breakfast and everyone in the family will take a turn telling him why he is special to them. Watching our youngest son wait in anticipation as his older brothers talk about how he is important, valued and unique, creates a sense of happiness, confidence and great worth in him. These moments cannot be replaced or overvalued. Even my wife, Shawntel, and I have come to be excited when we see the red plate at our spot on the table. There is rarely a red plate day without tears of joy.

As a parent, it is vitally important to develop habits that will keep you on purpose with your children. The red plate is an easy way for us to focus on the accomplishments and joys of each of our uniquely special children. Over the years, I passed this tradition on to many of my friends and family. They now use it as their own and it has been so rewarding to hear their positive stories that accompany this new tradition that has been established in their family. This tradition has created such incredible reward for both our children and for us as parents throughout the years.

I'm So Excited -- Are You?

Jesus pointed out that we need to be like little children -- not by being irresponsible, but of waking each day with excitement and enthusiasm about the potential that this day may hold -- being filled with "I'm so excited" joy and with the expectation that "Something good is going to happen today!" I think He also meant that we should be so care-free that we are able to completely trust our Dad, as a little child trusts their Dad. He wants us to give Him our cares, wants, concerns and fears because we know He will work everything for our good.

So, then, why don’t we live with the expectation and excitement about today? After all, this could be the day of great surprises, new beginnings, open doors, good news, and many victories won -- why not BELIEVE it? In the words of Napolean Hill...."Whatever your mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve!" Time to give some brain power to GREAT EXPECTATION that "something good is about to happen"!!!

Thank You for Making a Difference

I'm thinking about those who have made a difference in my life.....from my sweet mom, to my Sunday School teacher, to my Camp Counselor, to my special friends who continue to encourage me with their love and support, to my children and grandchildren who cause me so much joy and happiness, to my Facebook friends who give me a "Like" or a "Comment" that brightens my day, to the ones who don't even know me -- the store clerk, the waitress, the landscapers, the mailman, the greeters and ushers at my church, the bank teller, and on and on -- because I know God loves me so much that He orchestrates, not just the circumstances and situations of my life.....but He divinely orchestrates those who come into my life. And though, some folks are for just a season, and some are for a reason.....He brings many into my world for a lifetime. I don't take any of you lightly.....because God knows who and what is best for me! Thank you for making a difference in my life!

Never, Never, Never QUIT

Have you been part of a project or had a great idea and someone said, "It can't be done"? Or with a group that despite the odds against them, they're "just doing it"?

Milton HERSHEY failed in his first two attempts to set up a candy business.

H.J. HEINZ set up a company that produced horseradish. It went bankrupt.

Steve Jobs got fired from APPLE, the company he founded. Only to return a few years later to turn it into one of the most successful companies ever.

During WW II Sir Winston Churchill led his country during its darkest hours. The British people leaned on him, drew strength from him, because his will and determination were like iron. He said time and time again, "Never quit!"

We all may start out flying high with ambition, determination, and enthusiasm. But, often we get tired and wonder if what we dreamed will come to pass. It's then that we should remember those who reached success because of their relentless ability to set their faces like flint toward their goal. It's time for us to follow their lead to declare our "Never Quit" attitude, regardless of the opposition... regardless of the circumstances... regardless of how we might feel... WE NEVER QUIT.

Yes, there are times when we must stop and reassess... we may need to take a detour....we may need to make course corrections... we may need to discover that missing key component...we may need to pick ourselves up from having fallen FLAT on our faces! I've been there all those times -- and one promise I made to myself, was to never allow anyone or any circumstance to steal from me this one determination: I WILL NEVER QUIT! In fact, QUIT, is not a part of my DNA -- it's not in my hard drive -- it's not in my vocabulary! How about you?

God Takes Pleasure When We Take Pleasure

Yesterday was planned around Alexia -- some girl time, her getting to choose where we would eat for breakfast and dinner -- being pampered at the nail salon, her picking some great decor' for her new bedroom, getting her "Fall Harvest" costume -- it was a "by design" day that continues to celebrate her Rite of Passage (she'll turn 13 in Sept).

I was thrilled to be a part of this day and getting to watch as she received the next "key" that might be the "one" that would open her Rite-of-Passage Treasure Chest. Yesterday's leadership "key" was COURAGE. It was another key she received during these many weeks of intense training and preparation by her dad and mom who are pouring into her.

Last night, as an example of courage and willingness to fight and die for a cause bigger than herself, we watched the movie, "Joan of Arc" -- so compelling to see a young woman of courage, power and ability to lead armies and command men. She won many military victories over England and saved France from English rule. She had the ability to endure adversity patiently. She was steadfast and loyal to a king who abandoned her to her enemies. But most of all, she loved God, and her loyalty and patient acceptance to His Will for her life, makes her a genuine heroine and role model for us all -- not to mention my precious granddaughter who is being equipped with the "keys" that are creating a firm foundation in her life as she continues to grow into womanhood.

As I took this day in -- with all its enjoyments and pleasures -- and ending with this strong emphasis on courage, I realized that is what Father God wants for all His kids. He wants us to enjoy all that is around us -- He takes pleasure in our joy. But most importantly He wants us to grow in all the ways of becoming, being, and doing -- people of courage, purpose and destiny -- to change our world. I pray this for Alexia, I continue to strive for this with all my heart.

Never Underestimate What God Plans for Your Kids

I'm back in Texas, and had the opportunity to visit with my husband's best bud and cousin, Wes Wuerch and his precious wife, Letha Wuerch, Pastors here in Texas. I loved talking about the "good ole' days" and remembering the times when these two guys played their trumpets in church and sang together. They both went on to be ministers and pastors and they served God and His people in such beautiful ways. And now seeing the fruit of their labors by the many people whose lives were radically changed, and, they too, are being used by God in amazing ways today. Seed time and harvest.

Who knew those two little mischievous boys would have such an impact on this world? Their mamas.... and God. I'm telling you mamas and papas, today, "Never underestimate what God will do with your kids. He has great plans for them." These two guys are proof that He just needs the seed. He's the Master Gardener and he turns seeds into a mighty harvests." Now it's time for us to cultivate the soil, plant the seed and let God give the mighty increase!

Worry is Like a Rocking Chair

In the words of the great philosopher, Erma Bombeck ...“Worry is like a rocking chair: It gives you something to do, but it doesn’t get you anywhere.” From first hand experience, I can tell you that statement is true. I've done my share of worrying.....and it never got me anywhere! I realized that it is a time waster, energy sucker, stomach nauseater, and a depression maker -- not to mention, that I disappointed God when I was a "Worry Wart" (Merriam Webster says that's a person who worries too much or who worries about things that are not important). But more than anything, it's admitting that I'm not trusting God to take care of the situations in my life.

"Cast the whole of your care (all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all) on Him, for He cares for you." (I Peter 5:6,7) I love that image! I've been doing a lot of CASTING for fish with my grandsons, but we keep reeling the bait back in. But in that scripture, it means CASTING the cares -- all of them -- on Him....and NOT reeling them back in. We CAST them to Him....and let go of them.

Now that I've learned my lessons well, when a worry starts knocking on my door.....I quickly put my heart and mind on HIM who is my worry-bearer. "Him I will keep in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on me" (Isaiah 26:3) I quickly go to His sweet place of peace and ease and comfort when I cast the cares, the worries and pressures to Him -- after all HE is the Prince of Peace so why should I worry or fret? And why should YOU worry or fret? He's sending a little love note to us right now: "My child, you worry too much! Remember? I've got this! Love, Your Dad (God)"

Krispy Kreme Memories -- Before and After Technology

As I read that Krispy Kreme celebrated its 77th birthday last Friday, I had a "blast from the past" moment, thinking about my grandkids enjoying those hot and yummy donuts. It was a sweet visual of them watching them being made, their eyes sparkling and lips watering, when the store clerk would give them a free one.

A lot has changed since Vernon Rudolph began selling his doughnuts to local grocery stores in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Now there are stores in 500 locations and they even offer a "Hot Light App" which alerts customers' cell phones when their doughnuts are hot. Wow, it's amazing how the technological revolution has transformed our lives!

Phone apps and social media have given us many ways to share what's going on in our little corner of the world. It has changed the way we make memories....and now we can share those memories quickly with others. Once upon a time, we'd put film in our cameras, take the photos, take the film to the store to be developed, then put the photos in an album to share at the next family gathering. Now we simply take a photo with our mobile phone, then we immediately "SHARE" it on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter -- and in just moments, our family and friends have entered into our world of memories, made just moments before.

Whether you have distant memories like the ones I've shared here: (photos made from a camera's film): my Payton & Alexia enjoying Krispy Kreme donuts that we took them in Texas (now Payton & Alexia are 14 & 12); Brennan (now 10) with his Great Granny having a Krispy Kreme "tea party", or memories you're making today -- cherish them -- celebrate today's moments so that tomorrow you can be thankful that you "stopped and smelled the roses".....or, rather you "stopped to enjoy a yummy donut"!!

Live in the Moments, Make Memories, Live With No Regrets

1 - My precious Shawntel, Barrett (Bear), Brennan, Bryson arrive in Tulsa!!!!
2 - Go directly to Chick-fil-A Tulsa Hills (a must when coming to Tulsa)!

3 - Stop by LifeChurch.tv Jenks Campus for pictures with Frozen Sven, Olaf, and Abominable Snowman -- Elsa and Anna weren't there today

4 - Go to Nana's -- though his birthday is past, can't miss the "must do" Treasure Hunt for Brennan
5 - Play pickleball (oops -- didn't take a picture)

6 - Go back to Nana's to fish -- Bryson catches first fish -- Nana says to Shawntel when we must take the fish off the hook "Where is Papa and your Daddy when we need them?" Whew -- big Bear, our MAN, comes to the rescue!
7 - Supper (yes, it's supper, not dinner at Nana's) - ham, mac & cheese, corn on the cob, baked beans, watermelon
7 - Go swimming (oops -- didn't take picture)

8 - Play nightime golf

9 - Play shuffleboard
10 - Boys ask to play Papa & Nana's old Nintendo 64 (yes, even with all of their latest models of X-Box, nothing like pulling out Mario Kart and Donkey Kong)
11 - 1 am go to bed (well, it's only 11 am in Seattle)

I gave you the pack-filled, packed-fun, half day at Nana's! I continue to send out the message: "Live in the moments, make memories, and live with no regrets." Yesterday morning I posted: "Thank God for another day -- don't waste it!" So how's THAT for proving it CAN be done! I'm smiling from ear to ear"! I'm a "Happy Nana Banana"!

Don't Waste Today

It's a brand new day and a brand new week! Yesterday is gone, tomorrow may never come, but this day is the day we have an opportunity to practice recognizing God’s blessings in literally EVERYTHING! It's a pretty big deal to simply WAKE UP to a new day, because yesterday, was the very last day on this earth for many.

We are still here, and God has a reason for it! Life is a matter of perspective. No blessing is too small or inconsequential. And though this day may come with some unwelcome and unexpected surprises, remember God has a master plan in place.....and, if we'll look, we'll even see the blessings that come with those surprises!!

Now let's go make memories, celebrate life and all its many thrills -- after all, this is the LAST day we'll have TODAY!

Are You Aboard the Titanic or the Good Ship Lollipop?

Ever run into folks who you’d think they were onboard the Titanic – they are always expecting an iceberg – dismal in their outlook on life and they refuse to be full of good cheer and great expectation?

Then, there are others, like my friend, Debbie, who continue to inspire me, and my Life Group that meets in my home each Thursday. She’s one of those who, you would think, are onboard Shirley Temple’s “Good Ship Lollipop”. Just a year ago, Debbie and John, her husband, moved from the only state, California, they’ve ever lived in. They started life over again here in Tulsa, in their business and church, and they continue to celebrate God's blessings in their life. Debbie loves babies so much (she oozes with love for them, and they know it) that she volunteers every weekend as a baby caregiver in Life Kids, and she volunteers her time during the week in the church offices. But her love for Oklahoma has taught me so much about appreciating even the everyday, simple blessings of God, that oftentimes, we take so lightly, and so for granted. Here is her Facebook post from yesterday:

"Reason #213 why I love Oklahoma: Dinner at a "trendy" Italian restaurant (yes, there are trendy restaurants in Tulsa). It was fabulous and the waitress attends the same church we do. A drive through some beautiful countryside with spectacular estates (yes, people in Oklahoma have money). Fed two friendly horses some carrots and apples just a mile from our apartment, said hello to a flock of sheep (without their wool) and saw two baby deer right across the road from our complex. Oh, almost forgot, we saved a turtle crossing the road and relocated him to the edge of a quiet little lake. Great night altogether."

Don't you just love her wit, but above all, her appreciation for things that money can't buy -- just the overall attitude of gratitude? I responded to her post: "Oh how I love how much you love Oklahoma.....and life! You are always on the "Good Ship Lollipop" and that makes me smile so much!" It sure makes me want to amp up my gratitude for the many simple blessings of life that are all around me. No Titanic for me! I'm boarding the Good Ship Lollipop, too! — with Debbie Krzych.

We Ran.....Because We Could!

My husband's Memorial Service was on Friday, and on Sunday, we ran the Tulsa Route 66 Marathon in his honor. He was paralyzed during his final weeks of life, so we celebrated that we COULD run/walk.

Over 25 of us showed up with our red "Run for Ron" t-shirts. It was the 5th marathon in 55 days that our son, Ryan, ran, but this time, in honor of his dad. He started out his 26.2 mile run at 7:30 am. Our oldest grandson, Braden, ran the half-marathon (13.1 mile). The rest of us started our 5K run/walk at 8 am. We were all running/walking with such passion -- so appreciative that we could.

Once we completed our 5K, we rushed to cheer for Braden as he crossed the Finish Line from his half marathon in his personal best time ever. He told me that he felt his Papa pushing him all the way.

When we went to meet up with Ryan at Mile 16 to cheer him on, we waited and waited. We thought we may have missed him, but in reality, we were at the right place at the right time, as Drew -- a member of my church saw us, stopped a moment to pull out a large photo of my husband. He was also "Running for Ron".

Then we got the call….a man had passed out just in front of Ryan. What marathon runners don't do, is stop running mid-way through a marathon as it seizes up their legs, but Ryan stopped to help him. When it was apparent he was unconscious, Ryan held his feet and prayed while others were performing CPR for over 16 minutes. He stayed until the ambulance took the man away. Later we found out the 27-year old man passed away during that time. We knew it was providence that Ryan was there, and even that my Honey was probably there to greet him when he reached the other side. We cheered for Ryan as he crossed the Finish Line -- not his best time because of the delay -- but God's best time, which IS the BEST time.

I was interviewed by the Tulsa World newspaper reporter about our "Run for Ron". As an exclamation point to our efforts, that article and photo ran in the paper the next day. The next words are the caption with the picture and the next section is the article. The other photo is Drew Martins, from my church.

Photo caption: "The Run for Ron Family takes a moment for a group photo at the finish line of the Route 66 Marathon. The family had many members run in various races to commemorate Ron Wuerch, who died Tuesday of cancer."

Article: "While many runners said the wind slowed down their times at the Route 66 Marathon on Sunday, one group found the wind to be anything but adversity. 'We were giving thanks for everything in our life and the wind was like a fresh breath of air,' said Donna Wuerch, whose husband Ron passed away last week.

Wuerch's daughter Staci, son, Ryan and grandson, Braden - who ran the marathon and half-marathon respectively - and a host of extended family members and friends, were decked out in 'Run for Ron' t-shirts.

"This is our way of saying, 'thank you' for our legs, our lungs," Staci said. "Dad had a lot of issues due to cancer, and we just thought it was a nice way to honor him and thank God for our blessings in our life."

Among those running for Ron Wuerch was 32-year-old Gracie Updyke, who pushed her 15-month old son Ryan in a stroller over the 5k run. Runners came from as far away as Canada to support the cause, Works of Mercy, and the Wuerch family.
By LYNN JACOBSEN World Sports Writer

Got Mountains?

Seattle is one of my favorite places to visit -- of course, the main reason is because my kids live there, but, coming from the plains, I have a great appreciation for the massive, magnificent Northwest mountains – the Cascades, Mt. Rainier, Glacier Peak, and so many more. I’ve enjoyed hiking on them, fishing under them, driving through them, tubing and skiing down them. These amazing mountains were created by our Master Creator for a purpose, much of which is sheer enjoyment for His kids.

But, what about the mountains in our lives – those vast, enormous obstacles and circumstances that seem beyond overwhelming, that seem like a dead end to any progress forward? Our mountains might even be people who represent discomfort, annoyance, harassment, bitterness, and pain in our lives. We think that if only these mountains were removed, our lives might be more peaceful, comfortable, and a lot easier to be holy. And, we know Matthew 17:20 "Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." But these “mountains” might just be the very perfect plan of our Creator (the same One, who created the majestic mountain ranges) to help us become and achieve what He created us to be and do. Everything we encounter in our lives are part of the undescribable love He has for us -- part of His Master plan.

There must be mountains to appreciate the valleys. And perhaps, God, in all His wisdom, is wanting us to scale those mountains. He is wanting us to hike up those mountains, for a “mountain-top experience” where we are refreshed, restored, nourished, and where we receive divine revelation. His revelation is always intended to grow our faith, strengthen our resolve, and equip us to take on any mountain that may be standing in our way.

As I was writing this message, in my head was this song -- I think it perfectly describes God's unfailing love song to us. I know it's a secular love song -- but, after all, God IS Love and He is a mountain-moving God.

"There ain't no mountain high enough
Ain't no valley low enough
Ain't no river wide enough
To keep ME from getting to you.

If you need ME, call me
No matter where you are
No matter how far
Just call MY name
I'll be there in a hurry
You don't have to worry

Remember the day
I set you free
I told you
You could always count on me
From that day on I made a vow
I'll be there when you want ME
Some way, some how

There ain't no mountain high enough
Ain't no valley low enough
Ain't no river wide enough
To keep ME from getting to you.

Turn "Thrown Under the Bus" to "Driving the Bus"

We’ve all heard the saying “I felt like I was thrown under the bus!” And, in fact – we didn’t just hear someone else say it…..we said it ourselves. You know….when a co-worker disparaged us so they could get the promotion instead of us; or someone took the credit for something we worked hard and long for; or someone blamed us for something we didn’t do; or the person who makes an excuse for everything – it’s never their fault for a situation. Or, quite frankly, the enemy of our soul has continued to “throw us under the bus” by causing fear, anger, accusations, worry, disappointment and discomfort in our lives.

Well, it’s time to put a stop to being thrown under the bus and time to START DRIVING THE BUS. We can put a halt to the victim mentality, and those tests and messes can become our testimony and message when we get behind the wheel of the bus. And when we’re driving, we can steer that bus all around and pick up other people who feel like they’ve been thrown under the bus and help them bounce back to being in charge, too.

Bottom line…..it’s time we refuse to give up and begin to overcome the antics of the enemy. Through those times we can get better instead of being bitter. Romans 8:28 “All things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purposes.” That GOOD…is when we start driving the bus, where we are not only blessed, but those around us….are blessed because we are the BEST drivers that are helping to impact their lives for GOOD, too!

Having a Blast Until I Blast Out of Here!

48 years ago today, July 8, 1966 -- I married the love of my life, I was 17; he was 18 -- and that was after a LONG 5 years courtship -- since 12 & 13! And, if I had it to do over again, I’d do it ALL OVER AGAIN! Though many said “It will never last – you’re too young – don't get tied down yet -- you have so much life to live -- you’ll miss out on so much fun", I think "nanny, nanny, boo, boo" -- to all of those naysayers. NEVER did I think "tied down" -- we lived life to its fullest, and had SO MUCH FUN! Yes, we WERE young and immature. We made a LOT of mistakes – but we did so much that was right!! We had a blast living life, and a blast "overcoming" life, and its many surprises and challenges.

When my sweetheart graduated to heaven in 2010 -- I realized how blessed I was to have had him in my life for so many years. This precious man was my cheerleader, coach, counselor, confidante, caring and compassionate friend, and romantic lover. Most importantly, he brought out the best in me – literally, as I was a shy introvert, with so many insecurities, lacking in confidence, yet he saw so much more in me. He urged, coerced, and pushed me to be the best I could be. Because of him, I became a Mom to two truly great children, and also, an accomplished organist & pianist, a pilot, a real estate and securities broker, a fisherman (woman), a slalom water skier, a snow skier, a businesswoman, an administrator, a public speaker and, lover of God's Word and fully desiring to serve Him all the days of my life.

I miss him today – more than ever, but because I love him so much, I am overwhelmed with joy that he could be in heaven ahead of me -- he's on his heavenly assignment -- he earned and deserves this. And, of all the beautiful things he gave me, and urged me to become, I absolutely know that the peace, joy and happiness I’m experiencing today, is because of the impact he had on my life – to always look for the good in every circumstance, to be grateful for everything, to be determined to finish this race strong. Happy Anniversary, my Sweetheart! I'm having a blast here.....and I guarantee I'll keep your legacy strong until I BLAST OUT OF HERE to be THERE with you!

Disengage that EJECT Button!

Pilots push the EJECT button when their planes are about to crash, and to save their lives -- they have no other choice. They MUST take action…FAST! But, what about those of us who are birthing a dream and it’s just too difficult to keep pushing. Or toughing it out in the middle of a project or venture that seems quitting is the obvious thing to do. Or we have given our all to accomplish some task or goal, and the going gets just too tough. All of the negative voices and circumstances, seem to indicate…. QUIT -- give up the fight – you can’t take this any more.

Yesterday, I heard Father Bryan Brooks expound on his recent trip to Spain where he walked the Way of St. James (a 200+ mile pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela -- the burial place of St James) – a journey he had prepared and trained for, prayed earnestly about for a very long time, and undertook as a celebration of his 20-years as a priest, to pray for us, and as penance because he knows he could be a better priest (some would argue about that as we’ve only seen the remarkable, devoted and tremendously dedicated man of God that he is). Nevertheless this was his goal and mission. He shared how many times, over the 200+ miles of walking in a matter of 18 days, he was faced with the notion of quitting, when, physically, it didn’t seem he could take another step, when the rainy weather impeded his progress, but no time greater than only one hour into his journey after he arrived in Spain. He was pickpocketed on the subway – his credit card, ATM card, his identification, and his money was stolen. He had every reason to push the EJECT button to take him back to the comfort of his home and church family. But, he wouldn’t accept defeat. He continued his journey through to completion.

I can understand the part of wanting to EJECT from situations, circumstances, dreams, goals and ventures. Taking the path of less resistance is so much easier. But why choose the easy way out, instead of knowing the thrill of conquest and victory? Why do Olympians train for years, for “one moment in time”? Why do leaders have to make tough decisions every day when it would be so easy to throw in the towel – to press the EJECT button? Vince Lombardi said it perfectly “Winners never quit; quitters never win!” Perhaps this is a message we all needed to hear today – the message that says, “Dig a little deeper; walk a little further; climb a little higher; push a little harder -- you AND God have got this! . Now let's all DISENGAGE the EJECT button!

Before -- Barren; After - Oasis -- What is Your Before and After?

BEFORE -- I was the first to receive the "Certificate of Occupancy" to move into my new home back in Nov, 2012. When I bought my lot in this new community -- only dirt and earth-moving machinery were here – no streets, sidewalks, or other houses – just signage with a photo of what would be here in the future. I simply trusted that the developer and my home builder were making a promise they would keep.

AFTER -- and, here we are – just two years later, and you can see the progress by my house and the other houses on my street. And, now, there are paved roads, sidewalks, many other houses throughout the subdivision, a huge clubhouse with pool, tennis courts, pickleball courts, library, dance & aerobics room, fitness room, etc., beautiful landscaping throughout, and lots of friendly neighbors who have joined me.

I could have taken the safer route to purchase here AFTER the roads, sidewalks, other houses, and the clubhouse were all in, but then I wouldn’t have been able to choose this lot which has a lovely lake view (and my grandkids love that it's stocked with fish -- fishing poles are always ready to go in my garage) -- a lot that others refused, because they wanted to "wait and see" if what was promised, would happen.

Oftentimes, in life, we are presented with opportunities that just seem “too good to be true” and we prefer to take the easier, more cautious, proven, no-risk route and, when we do, we may also live with regrets when we see others who were willing to venture out into the great unknown. "WAIT & SEE" just shouldn't be a part of our mode of operation! We have just one life to live – why shouldn’t we be living it with all out gusto? I’m quite surprised at myself, actually. When my husband/business partner was here with me, we’d make these decisions together, but here’s the really awesome thing – Jesus (my partner/counselor/guide) said “I come to give you life and more abundant life.” Why shouldn’t I take HIM at His Word – He who NEVER promises something that He doesn’t deliver on. Living in His abundance continues to produce BEFORE and AFTER pictures in my life. And, He always delivers on His Word. What may be barren, desolate and “just dirt” in your life – could be a flourishing oasis once you take Him at His Word and live with complete and total trust in Him. I know He does it daily for me!

The Greatest Gift We Give Our Children

In my post, yesterday, I urged parents to cultivate the talents, giftings and abilities of their children. The same day I read Max Lucado's post along the same lines, but he took it a step further by saying "The greatest gift you can give your children, is not your own riches, but revealing to them their own!" I love it. Helping our children find God's destiny and purpose for their lives is how Father God orchestrates our lives, and as we yield ourselves to His Master wisdom and direction, He helps us discover those gifts and talents He's placed in us, and then we use them to bless our world. Enjoy Max Lucado's (one of my favorite authors) short message here:

The Greatest Gift
by Max Lucado
"My dad repaired oil-field engines for a living and rebuilt car engines for fun. Dad loved machines. But God gave him a mechanical moron…a son who couldn’t differentiate between a differential and a brake disc. My dad tried to teach me. I tried to learn. Honestly, I did.

Machines anesthetized me. But books fascinated me. What does a mechanic do with a son who loves books? He gives him a library card. Buys him a few volumes for Christmas. Places a lamp by his bed so he can read at night. Pays tuition so his son can study college literature in high school. My dad did that.

You know what he didn’t do? Never once did he say, “Why can’t you be a mechanic like your dad and granddad?” The greatest gift you can give your children is not your own riches, but revealing to them their own!"

Train Up a Child -- It is Worth the Effort

For over 12 years, our daughter, Staci Wallace, travelled, sang and spoke at the "Get Motivated" seminars with Peter Lowe, Zig Ziglar, Tom Hopkins, and always on the guest speaker list were former presidents, prime ministers, professional athletes, and many other dignitaries. I don't share this to impress you, but it impresses me about the mightiness of God's orchestration of our lives.

My husband and I had planned on being at a conference in Maui, but something altered our plans, and since we had already paid for the conference, we insisted that our daughter take our place to just get strengthened, motivated and encouraged at a very vulnerable time in her life -- long before meeting her wonderful husband, Larry. Staci's Dad (my sweet husband) was her coach (better known as Sargeant Dad because he was relentless in pulling every ability, talent and gifting out of her -- when it came to her basketball playing, her singing, and her public speaking). And, I was relentless in being a Stage Mom -- entering her into vocal competitions, pageants and speaking opportunities. As she was about to leave for the trip to Maui, her Dad, as always, said, "Be prepared just in case they ask you to sing -- take your accompaniment tracks with you!" Which, she always did. And, sure enough, she was asked to sing at the event. She WAS prepared, and belted out a song in her usual passionate style. This time, Peter Lowe was at the back of the room and heard her. At the end of the session, he introduced himself to her and asked if she'd like to be a part of his "Get Motivated" events. And, that began a remarkable journey for both of us -- I was her travel companion, photographer, and product sales manager. It was a thrill, and joy -- on so many levels. We knew it was a divine set-up!

I shared this story with you to urge you to cultivate, embrace, celebrate, coach and nurture the giftings of your children and grandchildren. There is no greater gift or asset that God gives us than our children. God gives them to us and what we help them become.....is our gift back to God. It is worth every effort, every investment of time and resources, when we see them excel and become all God has destined them to be. At those "Get Motivated" events, Staci always opened the day with her "American Medley" song. Later Tom Hopkins asked her to record an album of motivational songs for his speaking tour, which included this song. The backdrop of the song was compelling photos, videos and scenes of our great country, the men and women who serve our country and those who have given their lives to give us the freedoms we have today. I gift this song and my precious daughter to you today in honor of this glorious land that we live in, the freedoms that we have, and the blessings of God to call this land our HOME on this side of heaven.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sZH8qGwqMk