I'm still not completely well. I still cannot hear a thing out of my right ear. Yet, still will I praise Him for what the Lord has done for me. I have so many blessings. So, let's get at it and start filling that tank! Here's how God has chosen to do it:

Labels: Beth Moore, blessings, New blog home, thanks tank, thanksgiving

Labels: gratitude, thanks tank

A little late this morning, but Sweetcheeks and I have been hanging out, sharing a box of kleenex, alternating sniffles, playing Webkinz, eating delectable omelettes, and listening to this girlfriend -- one of our favorites -- Jesus, our Lord IS MARVELOUS!!!

Anyway, what week! Yesterday JD Green was also home, and the mama took extraordinary care of him so that he could hurry back to his teacher today. He was feeling a little too good by yesterday afternoon, and coupled with the mama's decline -- the daddy's homecoming could not have come soon enough. JD was eager to return to the land of school today -- tho' leaving his toys behind gave him a moment's pause (at least until I pressed him closer to the exit).

Enough rambling . . . let's get to the fillin' of that tank! Here's how God has filled me up in spite of the fountains of mucous this week:

1. Quiet Moments: Yes, those were found while everyone was engrossed with glazed eyes in front of a movie, but it was demand-free for about 119 minutes . . . woo hoo!

2. Fever: That stopped JD in his tracks Tuesday night for 3 1/2 hours. He lay down after returning from school and never stirred again until 8 pm. Now, I am not glad he was sick, but for him to rest in the middle of the day like that is a huge blessing. He needed the rest and got what he needed. God is good.

3. My New Paint Job: My parents were here last week, and my dad spent last Tuesday painting our room the very shade of blue of my sweater from yesterday's post. I love it and have dubbed it "bluebonnet" blue after one of my absolute favorite flowers.

4. Sweet Stuff: A couple of my recent indulgences = this and this. (Arriba, indeed!)

5. Sweet Fellowship: Had lunch with a dear friend (A) on Tuesday. What a treat in the middle of the week and shoring up of encouragement before the sickness hit with its full force.

6. New Sister: I didn't welcome her into the fold on her mama's blog the other day, so I thought I'd let her know how thrilled I really am right here. Welcome, dear, little sister!!

7. Cherry Limeade: Oh, to live in the place where they make it better than I've ever had it! I love me some Sonic! My precious DP went out special to get me a HUGE one last night, and it tasted fantastic on my scratchy throat.

8. My Man: You knew that was next, didn't you? He is a fabulous man and lives up to that DP each and every day in some way. He indulges my whims and takes such good care of me even when I'm looking more like this than his princess. I sure love you, Honey!

9. My New Washer: I know other mama's who have gotten new ones recently, and they have exuded boundless excitement over a household appliance. I am joining the cheering section! I got one of these last Monday, and I am beside myself with dizzying joy. I am actually ahead of my laundry schedule this week -- and that's after washing sheets and comforters yesterday! You know you are old when you find yourself giddy over a new appliance. I am giddy!

10. My Savior: Once again, He has sustained me. He has extended me grace abundant. He has poured out His extravagant love on me, and I have been able to share that with my family. Praise Him, O praise Him!

Now, you know what to do. Take the button from the top of this post to your site and create your own Thanks Tank, or leave me a list of how God is filling your tank in my comments. Either way, we get to share in the ways God is blessing and filling us up! How cool is that!

Have a Thanks-filled day!

Labels: blessings, God's Word, gratitude, thanks tank

Labels: blessings, lists, love, thanks tank

Somehow I sit here with the keys feeling like they are sticking under my fingers this morning. Feeling like my desire to be thankful is caught in my throat. I feel beaten up and broken today, and I'm not really even sure why. At least not all of the "why."

We all have weeks when we walk intimately, closely with our Father. Weeks of hearing His voice, feeling His breath upon our cheeks and responding with whispered, sometimes shouted praises.

My week has NOT been one of those. I have grumbled. I have slugged my way through it. Not literally, of course. My fists have not been flailing -- at least not at anyone else but myself. I'm a one-woman wrecking crew when it comes to annihilating my own heart. I need no outside help to bring myself to my figurative knees.

So, rather than continue to effectively pummel myself into submission, I am choosing this very moment to take my eyes off myself and put them where they rightly belong . . . on my Savior, who came to rescue me, at times like this from my own hurtful behaviors.

Here are the ways God is filling my tank, even when I am fighting Him:

He reminds me I am His. (Isaiah 43:1 NIV)
He reminds me He desires me. (John 17:24 NKJV)
He assures me of His everlasting love. (Jeremiah 31:3 NIV)
He extends His forgiveness . . . again and again. (1 John 1:9 NIV)
He reminds me He is not finished with me. (Philippians 1:6 NIV)
He extends His promises to me. (Hebrews 13:8 NIV)
He carries me. This one gives me hope even after I quit using Loreal to cover them up. (Isaiah 46:4 NIV)
He holds me close. (Psalm 139: 9-10 NIV)
He doesn't condemn me. (Romans 8:1-2 NIV)
He is who He says He is. (Isaiah 43:10 NIV)

So, after this Bible study this morning, I am now ready to face my day with a thankful heart, knowing my God is all around me. His truth will resonate in my heart and carry me through whatever circumstances come my way.

I pray the same for you today, dear one, as you read this.

How is God filling your tank? Let me know in the comments or take the button to your site and make your own list. I'll come visit and share in the blessings and lessons you are learning!

Go now and have a thanks-filled day! I know I will!

Labels: God's Word, gratitude, thanks tank, thanksgiving

My week has been one of ups and downs and lots of introspection.

I'll spare you the details of the thoughts that crash wildly around in my grey matter and get on with the ways God has chosen to fill my tank this week:

Listening: How precious it is to find someone who will just take the time to listen when the heart is bruised and in need of solace and understanding. Thanks, Honey!

Cuddles: My Sweetcheeks is not much for this at all, so when she came in yesterday morning from having a nightmare we had an unusual chance to snuggle up close and pray. I love tender moments like those!

Perspective: I was having a bit of an emotional pity party yesterday, but as I take the time to be grateful on purpose -- how my little piddly sorrows diminish. God has blessed me abundantly, just as He promised in John 10:10.

Creative Cooking: I've always said I am the best cook when my pantry is the emptiest. We've eaten well and enjoyed it this week, all at the expense of a pantry at its most meager right before pay day. Thank you, Lord, for enabling me to cook regularly, even extravagantly without a recipe.

Pay Day: After a loooong month of January, the day of exchange is finally here. We will get to exchange my DP's pay for some paid bills and groceries. I am grateful. We made it!

Glory: I see God's glory displayed everywhere I look: from the blustery breezes, to the majestic oak, to the bowed head of a fellow worshipper, to the crying child who needs a forever family. He has made it all. Glory be to Him alone!!

Smiles: Sometimes it can make all the difference in whether I feel welcome somewhere or not. It doesn't take long, and it reaps rewards long after it's finished.

Goals: I am finding I must set these and tell others of them in order to find accountability for myself and all my free time. Goals focus my mind and give purpose to my day.

Uneventful Days: After a really eventful one last Friday that I will one day use in a post, I have been thankful for days in which nothing outstanding occurs.

A Full Heart: I am utterly grateful for my Jesus who makes this whole post possible. Without Him I am nothing, and this thanks tank is non-existent.

Now it's your turn! Comment on God's goodness here or take the Thanks tank button to your site and make your own list. Either way, I would love to be in on the way God is filling your tank!

Labels: blessings, gratitude, thanks tank, thanksgiving

Labels: blessings, gratitude, humility, intentional, thanks tank

Hard to fathom that it is Thursday already. The week has sped by on winged feet, it seems. I've been learning lots about myself, lots about my children, and lots about this school system to which I've entrusted my precious ones. God has not left me in the midst of any of it, so here are the ways He is choosing to fill my tank this week:

1. Auntie Pam: Yes, I became an aunt for the second time this week. My brother and his wife had a baby girl Tuesday in Ohio. She was 8lbs. 9 oz. and 19 1/2" long. She is doing quite well and will get to go home tomorrow when her mama is released due to a C-section. Her big brother is four, and he is completely enamored by his new baby sister.

2. Ear muffs: I got a pair of these for Christmas in '06, but I've only worn them twice. Last night, with all the cold and snow, I broke them out and donned them for the third time. Toasty, I tell you!

3. Lunch: I know it seems mundane, but not so when I had lunch at school for the very first time with JD Green. He had come under some heat for playing during lunch the day before, so we had to sit at a table all by ourselves. My heart went out to him as he passed by all his classmates and dutifully headed for the lone table facing the wall. Another little boy got sent over there while we were dining. After asking me tons of questions, he said wistfully, "My mama has never come to eat lunch with me. JD is really lucky." No, baby, I am the one who is blessed. every. single. day. So glad this boy is mine.

4. Exercising: It is making a difference, y'all! I know that sounds silly, but after finding myself sinking into that all-too-familiar black hole again, I am thrilled to report not only a change of shape from the sweating I'm doing . . . but also a change of mood. I can think more clearly and my attitude is better, too. Multiple benefits -- Woo hoo!!! Tony is the man!

5. Books: I've been to the library three times now since the kids went back to school, and I am having a blast. I picked up Ted Dekker's Heaven's Wager and finished it in three days. (I could have finished it quicker if I hadn't fallen asleep two different nights while reading, but I attribute that to my time with Tony during the day.) I love reading, and I am thrilled to have the time to soak in some good books right now. I picked up this one yesterday and plan to start it today or tomorrow.

6. Bible Study: I am beginning a study with Beth Moore next Tuesday. Yes, I wish I were headed to Houston every Tuesday to do Breaking Free with her group at her church, but I am going to be learning and fellowshipping with some lovely ladies from my own church.

We are doing Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent, and I am SO excited. I've not done a Beth Moore study since Believing God in the Spring of '06, so it. is. time! Check out her blog sometime. She is doing a roll call right now and calling all "siestas" to come and let themselves be counted! It is so cool to see all these women around the world learning and growing together through these studies.

7. Quiet: I know I was thankful for this last week, but I am savoring it even more this week as I am getting more used to the quiet and finding myself less disconcerted over it. I am learning to listen for my Savior's voice and long for Him to speak to me in the midst of the stillness in my home.

8. Resources: There is a parent coordinator at the elementary school my children attend. She and I had a fabulous 2-hour talk on Tuesday. I was the only mama who showed up for PASS (Parents Assuring Student Success), so I had her undivided attention. She was a wealth of information, both academic and community related. I left with several phone numbers to contact and a cookbook. Plus, she is a believer and also has fibromyalgia, so we have that in common as well. What a helpful time!

9. God's provision: He continues to carry us through a month that is usually quite tight financially. I am so grateful for soups and casseroles that stretch our grocery budget.

10. God's Word: Here is our new verse to memorize this month as a family:

Labels: Beth Moore, blessings, God's Word, gratitude, thanks tank

Good Morning!

Welcome to the first Thanks Tank of 2008!!

Considering the week I've had, this could be a long one, but I'll try to just hit the highlights. Here's how God is filling my tank this week:

1. Public School: For a variety of reasons we have chosen to send our children back into this environment, and so far I have seen God's hand at every juncture.

2. Christian Teachers: The school our children attend is full of them, and each one of my sweeties is blessed with one. How cool is that!

3. Excited Children: Though they have cried this week that they miss me, my children are excited about learning and filled with joy at all the new experiences they are facing each day.

4. Bus Service: I didn't think I'd be willing to send my children on the bus, but it is the last stop on the way to school and the first drop off at the end of the day -- making their time on the bus a mere 5 minutes or so.

5. Domestic Victories: After reading about Barb's success here, I decided to try to overcome 14 years of miserable chocolate chip cookie failure. DP's favorite is chocolate chip, and I can never make a decent one. No more!! Here are the results:


All cookies shown above have been pronounced terrific by the beloved in my household and JD Green even had to make a huge announcement when DP bit into his first delectable morsel,

"Dad, these are not store bought ones! She made these from scratch at our house!!" So, thank you, Barb, and thanks, too, to the Butler and the Butler's Wife whose recipe I used. Our family pays homage to you.

6. Quiet: I have not known what that is for a very long time, but I am thankful for the quiet moments that allow me to begin to choose how I want to spend/invest my time. I heard this song this morning on the way home from taking DP to work. I so needed to hear it for the reminder it shares to be quiet before the Lord.

7. Choir: How I love the heart of our worship pastor! The way he shepherds our choir is amazing, and I am so blessed to be part of this ministry. I went home last night having worshipped and full from the way God met me in the midst of it. Thanks, Josh!

8. Caller ID: I love the way I can choose whether I want to answer the phone or not. I do not avoid calls from friends, but I do choose not to pick up those calls from the innumerable telemarketers that dial my number. What a blessing and timesaver!

9. Exercise: Ah! The tinge of pain to confirm the fact that under the squishy is muscle . . . unused muscle, but muscle nonetheless. Tony worked me over yesterday, but it is refreshing to have a reminder of those muscles I've left dormant for months. I'm headed back to deal with him again today, after this post is finished. "Downward Dog", here I come!

10. Relief: The knowledge that I am exactly where God wants me right now is beginning to set my soul at rest. The anxiety will dissipate and the knot in my stomach will go away, and all that will be left is relief and peace only my Savior can provide.

So, I managed to condense the bounty of blessings into something readable and manageable in one sitting. Please, feel free to join in and let us all know how God is filling your tank!!

Leave a comment here or take the button and make your own list like these lovely ladies have.

Have a thanks-filled day!!

On His Adventure~

Pam

Labels: beginnings, blessings, cool things, gratitude, joy, thanks tank

To hear what I heard at the very moment my JD Green was born, go here My Rhapsody Playlist

I never hear this song that I don't think of my precious boy . . . and his Savior, Jesus.

Having a child so close to Christmas has always directed my gaze to that helpless, little baby in the manger and what Mary must have felt those first moments she held and inspected him. Her baby. Her Lord. I, for a few short breaths, felt what Mary felt as I gazed into the midnight blue eyes of my one and only son.

I felt the whisper of the Breath of Heaven on my skin. I felt the pleasure of the God of the universe as I, too, welcomed the one whom He had given me.

Now, I have rarely felt like Mary since, but those few captured moments immediately following JD Green's arrival are ones I will ponder and forever treasure in my heart.

Happy 8th Birthday, my precious son. I love you with my whole heart.


God has filled my tank in a myriad of ways this week, and I am sad I didn't have the time to recount them yesterday. Here is a quickie version as we are headed out to celebrate the birthday boy:

1. JD Green: only appropriate that I put him first today.
2. Libbyline and Sweetcheeks -- y'all have helped me make this holiday season special.
3. DP -- 14 years, and we still never run out of things to say . . . can't wait for the next decades with you!
4. Chocolate in the mail: Thanks, Jen!
5. Unexpected Blessings: I got one of these in the mail, custom made for me. I am naming it after her real name so I can pray for her and her family every time I wear it. I love it. Thanks, GiBee!

There's always more to share, but I have to run. We're off to see this and go here. I'll be back soon. Have a great Friday. Make every day a thanks-filled day!!

On His Adventure~

Pam

Labels: blessings, celebrations, gratitude, life, thanks tank

Welcome back to the Thursday Thanks Tank!

I've been struggling lately in the physical arena, so I took a break last week instead of making my list out of obligation alone.

It's been a crazy week so far, but one full of blessings. Let me get right to the filling of the tank. Here's how God is filling me up this week:

1. Warm weather: No, it doesn't feel like Christmas, but it sure does beat the weather found here or here. Please be praying for all those who have suffered damage and power outages as a result of the storms blazing a trail through the Midwest and Northwest. I am very grateful to wake up this morning to a smattering of fog alone.

2. New pets: I can honestly say I am thankful for the unending lessons being taught by the new members of our family. Read about the rest of the story here. We've already experienced being bitten (that's me), a death (that's Ghirardelli), a transfer of ownership (that's from Sweetcheeks to John Deere Green), and a name change (that's from Snickers to Skittles . . . all in the candy family, I guess), and a replacement pet for Ghirardelli (that's Everest, Libbyline's new Chinese dwarf hamster who filled the void left by the Black bear hamster). It's been a wild ride, and it's only been three days so far! Pray for me . . .

3. My precious DP: This man is truly the Darling Prince as the "DP" reflects daily. He willingly runs errands for me, takes surprise afternoon frolics in stride, holds dying hamsters to comfort our daughter, cleans up our kitchen nightly, negotiates with unwelcome phone callers, and brings me treats just when I need them the most. I love you so much, Honey!

4. Christmas Cards: I love this time of year! I haven't actually sent my own yet (hopefully today), but I eagerly await the mail every day so that I can see whose card is in amongst all the regular junk mail. So good to hear from all of you. I'll send you my address if you'll just send me a card!

5. Laughter: I find lots of things funny, but this one had me howling the other day. You've got to read this post and remind yourself how wonderful it is to grapple with the beast of technology and win. Pray for our precious "Siesta". How I love this woman!

6. Gift Cards: My DP received a card from here the other day. He spent most of it on me. No more need be said. I love, love, love this man.

7. Baking: I love the smells of fresh cookies wafting through my humble abode. Yum!! These definitely smell like Christmas to me.

8. Health: I am so grateful for the routine health we've had this year. Sweetcheeks is currently recovering from a tummy bug, and I am thankful it was nothing more serious. We are truly blessed.

9. Friends: How grateful I am to be loved and cared for, simply for being who God created me to be. I care for you in the same way, not because you can send me gifts on time or that you send me gifts at all. The gift of your friendship is more than enough. (That's especially for you Kate and Jen).

10. Unexpected Gifts: Today my little flip calendar said this:


I've found that to be so true this week. Finances have been tight, tight, tight around here for months. We are trying to be good stewards and use our money as God would have us do so.

Last week I bought a used purse at a thrift store for $1.99, only to find out it had $28 in it once I got home. Unexpected blessing. AND . . .

This week my children received a DVD in the mail from a great aunt they barely know, only to have it be the very one they've been hoping we'd one day own. This one by Janette Oke has brought great joy at just the right time. God really does give His children good gifts.

Well, I've rambled on long enough. How has God been filling your tank this week? Let me know in the comments or take my cute button from here and take it to your own site. Invite me over, and I'll come share in the ways God is blessing you today.

Have a Thanks-filled day!

On His Adventure~

Pam

Labels: gratitude, happies, thanks tank, thanksgiving

As you'll notice quickly, I am doing a tandem post today. I call it multi-tasking.

For I cannot post anything about my Christmas traditions without thanking God for those very traditions that make me even more grateful for this time of year.

Here are a few of the traditions that carry us through each bless-ed Christmas season:

• I got a new Christmas ornament from my family each year that I took from home when I left college. Most of those are long gone now from age and fragility. Yet, I decided when Libbyline was born to start the same sort of tradition with my children. Libbyline adds a new Boyd's bear angel each year to her collection. Sweetcheeks gets a new snowman for hers, and JD Green gets an ornament with some form of transportation represented (which is so perfect as he is ALWAYS on the go). They love discovering these as we decorate our tree each year and will easily identify whose is whose when the time comes to leave home and start out on their own.
• We love baking around our house, and there are a few treats I usually only make at Christmas time: including chocolate covered pretzels, peanut butter fudge, and molasses crinkles(known as ginger cookies to my kids). I love the smell that wafts through the air as our goodies begin to bake. We also made press cookies and several other varieties last year for the first time, but it certainly won't be the last time these yummy items make an appearance. We usually take a plate or tin full of cookies to neighbors and share them with friends and family throughout the season.
• Our children each get to open one present Christmas Eve. I have done everything from getting matching pajamas made by my mother with coordinating bags to choosing sets in each child's favorite color. They now all know what will be inside the package each year, but it is still fun to take a group shot under the tree to commemorate going to bed in their new, cozy jammies. The excitement now lies more in the creative wrapping than in the contents. It is fun to see how imaginative the mama can get . . .
• We do not open presents first here. We read the Christmas story in Luke 2, then we read a chapter from Max Lucado's God Came Near, called The Arrival. Adding Mary's perspective, even fictionally, helps us to focus on all that went on that first Christmas when Jesus arrived as Immanuel.
• The other tradition actually arose out of a year ridden by illness with young children. We found ourselves unable to join any organized Christmas Eve service, so our three created a play of the Nativity story, using robes and towels to costume, stuffed animals for the stable residents, and the treasured baby doll for baby Jesus. Libbyline is our narrator and the other two act out all the other parts of the story. It is a precious time each year as they now thrill to put on their own interpretation of how Jesus came to us.

I am thankful for so many other things this week, but I want to encourage you to head on over to My Quiet Corner's gathering. Grab your favorite mug of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate and join the festivities. I know I've already enjoyed read Momrn's, and I am sure the ideas and traditions of others will inspire me for the future.

Have a thanks-filled day and don't forget to let me know if you've posted your own list of thanks. I will come visit when I get the chance!

Labels: celebrations, gratitude, thanks tank, thanksgiving

***Hey Gals (and guys, too)
I've had comments that the video isn't working. I think I've got it fixed now. Try it again if you'd like to view it : )

Update -- I tried to write this post yesterday, but found internet connection problems with Bellsouth . . . again . . . keeping me from posting what I wanted to post when I wanted to post it.

Methinks we'll be looking for a new provider soon . . . just a hunch.


So, a little slow on the uptake today, but nonetheless grateful ; )

Yes, though I didn't make a huge deal about it on my blog this year, I did have a birthday Tuesday. Thanks so much to all of you who acknowledged, prayed, and celebrated with me.

Here is how God is filling my "older" tank this week:

1. Birthday Breakfast: My three darlings made my entire meal without my knowledge Tuesday morning. I had a heart-shaped omelette created by my Sweetcheeks, orange juice poured by JD Green, green tea made by Libbyline, and the customary rice cake with pb & j instead of toast for the gluten-sensitive mama thoughtfully added by all three. I was touched and humbled by the care of these precious children.

2. Serving: It is totally true that when you are helping others your own problems seem to shrink. We had a blast packing cartons for Operation Christmas Child at our local drop off center this week. I love being able to remind my children that it truly is more blessed to give than to receive. They are such willing and cheerful helpers. I am so proud of them.

3. Example: My oldest is going to a birthday sleepover for a friend tonight (Friday) and it was such a joy to watch her carefully choose gifts for her friend that would please her and communicate my daughter's care for this friend. I saw a maturity in her choices that set a great example for me as I make choices for others.

The rest of my tank was filled with the following. I don't think I need to say anything else but "Thank You":


Thank you, too, to all of you who have begun posting your own Thanks Tanks. As always, feel free to take the button to your site and let me know in the comments, so I can come visit you. Welcome to all of you who have joined us in recent weeks!!

Labels: giving, gratitude, happies, thanks tank, thanksgiving

Somehow I feel like the speed has been turned up, and I am being dragged along with it.

Now that the preparations for the upcoming holidays are in full swing all over every place my eye rests, I feel some inner need to join in the frantic pressing on to do more, have more, make more, be more.

"Halt!" I must scream to myself.

I must remember that the first season's focus is thanksgiving. The second is actually more of thanksgiving mixed with a large dollop of celebration. I can hardly begin to focus on the thanksgiving if I am carrying on willy-nilly with a frazzled and wild-eyed gaze at all the lists and "to do's" I have set for myself.

So, on that note, I set aside time today and every day to intentionally be grateful and filled up to the top with thanks to my Heavenly Father for all He has done and continues to do in my life.

Here's how He's been filling my tank these past days. I am thankful for:

1. Wisdom: I am slowly learning I cannot do it all. I can only do what God has given me strength and energy to do. The rest either needs to be left undone or finished by someone other than me. That is NOT a bad thing.

2. Phone Calls from Far Away: I got a call this morning from my best friend in the whole world, and though it was not all sunshine and rainbows -- just sharing the needs we both have lightened our loads for the day. Thanks, sweetie!

3. Catalogs: I just love sitting and gazing at all the shiny pretties in the magazines full of holiday bounty that drop in my mailbox every day at this time of year.

4. Freedom: Can't tell you how freeing it is to just sign my name to everything I write now.

5. Epossomundas: This little guy has brought lots of laughter to our home the past couple days. I love these books and would highly recommend them for your young children and early readers.

6. Shopping: Especially shopping on someone else's dollar. My precious MIL called Monday and told me I needed to go get everyone a couple outfits for our Thanksgiving trip with her money. What a precious blessing -- just when I needed it.

7. Cold: I guess for the next few days we are past "free" weather, but what a joy it has been to need a sweater, put extra blankets on the bed, and wear winter slippers.

8. Early Nights: The time change has helped me to rise a little earlier, but it has also encouraged me to get in the bed a good bit sooner. I was in bed and ready to turn out the lights last night before 10pm. For those of you who know the regular night owl I am, this is amazing.

9. Fall Foliage: Finally, we are seeing some turning of the leaves here in our little area. I think I am more grateful for it this year, because it is not so widespread, and I am seeking it out more than in years past.

10. My DP: My darling prince (DP) of a husband is a true joy to my heart. He knows me so well, and I am incredibly grateful to the Lord for hand-picking him just for me. What a treasure.

So, you all know how this works, and if you're new here's the scoop. Several of us have Thursday Thanks Tank posts you can visit here, or here, or possibly even here.

If you'd like to do your own, please feel free to take the button and post it on your site. If you'd just like to share your own list of thanks in my comments, by all means, do that! I'd love to share in the joys of how God is choosing to fill your tank.

Have a great "thanks-filled" day!!

Labels: gratitude, intentional, thanks tank, thanksgiving

I became a mama for the first time.

At Baylor University Hospital in Dallas, Texas, I was handed a beautiful bundle with a pink bow on her head. I thought, as I looked into her face for the first time -- "I don't really know you yet. I thought I would, but I don't."

I've made it my mission over the past decade plus a couple to get to know this child God has brought into my life to bless me more than I could ever hope to bless her. I have tried to be a student of what she likes and dislikes. I watch her facial expressions. I read her body language.

As we spend time together, I can know her favorite part will be the hugs she receives and the actual time with me and her family. She loves gifts as much as anyone enjoys getting a present, but her love language is quality time sprinkled liberally with a strong dose of physical touch.

Libbyline is a precious blessing in my life. She has gone from being a stranger to being the child who I can count on to do just about anything. She is dependable, ever so capable, and a blossoming young lady. In her world, it is all about presentation, and I love that!

She is a tweenager in ever sense of the word -- ready to blast out into the wide world of being a young woman.

Part of me is scared as I wait in hushed anticipation of what comes next. Libbyline is changing at lightning speed, and I don't want to miss a single moment of her transition to womanhood.

Libbyline, I know this is not an exciting or lavish birthday in any sense of those words, but I pray you will know deep in your precious heart that your daddy, your sister, your ornery brother, and I all love you from the bottom of our hearts, and there is no one more deserving of a celebration than you. We will make the best of what we have and enjoy our day with you to the fullest of our abilities.

Here's to a little Asian food to continue the tradition you started six years ago!

I love you, my precious Libbyline. Thank you for giving me a reason to be called "Mama" in the first place!

Labels: blessings, celebrations, family, Libbyline, thanks tank

Isn't it always pretty certain that when you try to make changes for the better that the enemy just wants to pounce on you and snarf up all your little steps in the right direction?

I've felt that way this week. I am in the midst of trying to do things differently in several areas of my life, and I feel like I've just been meeting resistance at every turn.

I guess in some way that should encourage me to press on, knowing I must be doing something right to have the enemy so riled up. Yet, the past two days haven't yielded a spirit of soaring or the energy to fight against the attacks I've been fielding. I've felt defeated. I've felt lonely. I've felt friendless. I've even felt far from God.

That is until last night when I began to process the following:

Along with many of you, I have been touched by the Lord numerous times via the words that sometimes spill forth from the lips of Beth Moore. When and if I ever grow up, I want to know Jesus more like she does. I'm gettin' there. I. am. getting. there, praise His name!

This is what God used her to tell me this time from Get Out of That Pit:

"For satan to talk us into distrusting God and distancing ourselves from Him is to keep us broken, ineffective, and frankly, out of his hair. Life offers no few invitations to fall into this kind of distrust."

What I received was this:

In the moments when I am wondering what God is doing and where He is when I am hurting, those are the moments I need to stick to Him like glue through His Word, His promises, and through prayer. Only then can I avoid being "broken, ineffective, and out of satan's hair."

I don't know about you, but I think I'd rather be all up in his hair, making sure he doesn't forget Whose child I am, Whose Princess I've become. When I stand up fully to the height God has given me in Him, I can look down on that liar every. single. time. He CANNOT have me, and I am reminding myself of this truth right now:

Labels: God's Word, gratitude, thanks tank, thanksgiving

I'm finally re-surfacing after the whirlwind of the past few weeks.

I push and I push for weeks at a time, then my body just gives out and reminds me of the condition I try valiantly to ignore.

I have been trying to catch up by sleeping whenever I can get a rest, which means that Tuesday saw me in bed at 4:30 pm, back up for about 45 minutes to say "good night" to my family -- then back to bed until 6:30 am Wednesday.

Combine that with an internet snafu from Sunday until yesterday and you have heard not a peep from me since last week's Thanks Tank.

Without further rambling, here's the way God has chosen to fill my tank this week:

1. Visiting: I had the pleasure of spending the weekend with one of my dearest friends in the whole world. Jen and I have known one another since my days in Little Rock, and she was even kind enough to house me during the final 11 weeks before DP whisked me away to the altar. The woman was brave to share quarters with a stressed-out bride who spent many a day crying over the phone to a fiance who was way too far away during the whole engagement.

She left the three special guys in her life (her hubby and two boys) behind in the west and fully embraced life in the peachy household for a few days. We thoroughly enjoyed our time together and vowed to not let as much time pass before the next visit.

2. Small Town Fun: We took in the Chili Cook off, the Heritage Days Re-enactment, and several other outdoor activities over the weekend, while also finishing our run of The Hobbit. Quite a packed weekend!

3. Rest: How I have needed this, and I am so grateful God has provided it for me. I often feel guilty taking the time from my other chores to rest, but God, in His wisdom has helped me to see the benefits for all around me if I choose to rest when I need it.

4. Rain: We have so needed it, and I was so thrilled to hear the splash of wet tires on pavement as I awakened my girls early this morning. Thank you, Lord, for the refreshment this moisture brings to our parched and cracking land.

5. Computer Technicians: I am so glad there are folks like these that allow me to just sit down and type without any need to know how it all makes it out to you internets all over the world. It just does.

6. Quiet: Rare occurrence where I am right now, which makes it so much more appreciated when it does show up. I had a few moments of quiet the other day, and I find that is the time God chooses to whisper to me. I am listening, Lord!

7. Unexpected Treats: By Monday night I was plumb out of ideas for a nutritious dinner. My friend suggested an ice cream-driven meal. Creating sundaes of enormous proportions yielded squeals of laughter from those of all ages, and we over-indulged in an infrequent treat at our house.

8. Self-sufficient Children: Still rebounding from exhaustion and a dull headache, I was little help with lunch preparations yesterday. My children all stepped up and rose to the occasion, creating a healthy and delicious lunch without any assistance from me. Way to go!

9. Compliments: How wonderful it is to hear good words spoken over your children! I have gotten several positive reports lately, and it makes my soul sing in praise for what God is obviously doing in the lives of my three sweeties.

10. Trust: All is not perfect, but my trust in Him supercedes that which I cannot control. May I lean on Him throughout each storm that comes my way.

Ok, you know how this works. You can let me know how God is filling your tank here in my comments or take the cute button at the top to your site. Let me know if you've done your own list, and I'll come visit! If you like, head on over here, here or here for more Thursday Thanks Tanks.

Have a great thanks-filled day!

Labels: God's Word, gratitude, intentional, thanks tank

Yes, it is still Thursday, even on the East coast. So, I am going to try to keep my head upright and document the ways God has been filling my tank.

He must be keeping it filled, because I'm not doing a good job -- considering I've been up before 5:30 a.m. the past two days in a row. Anyone who knows me the least little bit knows I don't do mornings well. at. all. This Hobbit business is wearin' me out, girls.

On to the fillin' of the tank . . . Here's how He's choosing to do it:

1. He is sufficient for me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

2. He helps me focus on others rather than myself. Please pray for my new friend, Ginger. Her daddy, who is 71, just found out Monday he has a brain tumor and isn't expected to live long at all. The doctor expects he will need hospice care within the next couple of weeks.

3. He provides for my needs. We are trusting Him to take care of us as we don't know how it will all fall into place this month. He knows, and He is not worried in the least.

4. He gives me rest. (Matt. 11:28, NIV) I am so thankful to have no place to go tomorrow until show time at 8 pm. My duties in the makeup room are relieved as I prepare for and welcome my dear friend on Saturday.

5. He gives me wisdom. (James 1:5, NIV) Because of #4, I know I need to make this short and head off to dreamland. I am worn out, and I need the rest my Heavenly Father promises me.

I know it's too late for many of you to respond, so I hope you all had a thanks-filled day! If you like, head on over here, here or here for more Thursday Thanks Tanks.

Labels: God's Word, gratitude, teachable moments, thanks tank

Ok, all of you faithful "Thursday Thanks Tank" readers, I have got a bit of a twist for you this week. I want to direct you here to: "A Word With You" by Ron Hutchcraft. Today's entry is entirely appropriate for a "Thanks Tank" kind of day. Go read this and come back ready for the filling of the tank. Go on!

Ok, now you're back.

Well, Ron regularly makes me stop and think, and his words spoke to me especially today as I was of this mindset:

Labels: blessings, friends, fruit, gratitude, thanks tank

My heart has been heavy all week long. I have not risen above the funk in which I find myself, and yet I know that intentional thanks and gratitude is a pathway out of the funk.

So, out of obedience and a desire to see further than the step I'm currently on I choose to be thankful for:

1. My children: Though this has been a rough week emotionally for everyone, I am so grateful I have three healthy children. They eat, sleep, love, and learn here in my home. I am truly blessed.

2. Breathing: Allergy season is upon us, and with it comes a newfound appreciation for the simple ability to breathe in and out without difficulty.

3. Smiles: I am grateful for the ones I've received this week. They have gotten me through some dark moments and encouraged me to look outside of myself.

4. Card Making: This always encourages me as I can see how God has created me to be crafty.

5. Fresh Bedding: I washed comforters and quilts this week in hopes of cooler temperatures. The smell of fresh bedding can make me swoon. I thoroughly enjoy wrapping up in a warm blanket fresh from the dryer.

6. Swimming: My three are all taking swimming lessons at the Y here in town. What a nice respite in the middle of the day + bonus for the mama = I make friends with other homeschooling moms.

7. Community Theatre: "The Hobbit" is only one week away, and Libbyline, along with Sweetcheeks, are on the home stretch as far as rehearsals go. Dabbling in the dramatic has been fun, challenging, and an overall learning experience for all of us. I'll have to show photos once my dwarf and goblin are appropriately attired. Off to Middle Earth we go!

8. Exploring Interests: As homeschoolers we have the ability to delve into any topic that interests us and camp there for as long as the interest holds. Right now we are soaking up everything to do with Roman and Greek mythology.

9. Home Improvements: I got at it the other night and framed some photos that had been hiding in a folder in my garage for over a year. Using some creative matting and rubber stamping, I now can look around my house and see the fruits of many years of my love of taking photos.

10. God's love: I am grateful for His continual hand upon me.

1 I will extol the LORD at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.

2 My soul will boast in the LORD;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.

3 Glorify the LORD with me;
let us exalt his name together.

4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.

5 Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.

Psalm 34:1-5

Now, you know how this works. Please leave your comments and let me know how God is filling your tank this week, or you can take the button to your site and make your own list. Have a thanks-filled week!

Labels: encouragement, gratitude, intentional, thanks tank