Happy Birthday...

I won't say how old she is, but it is the truck speed limit in California.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY,
my dear, much older sister, Paula!!!

P.S. Now you all better pray because she is going to want to kill me when she reads this.

(Picture is Paula and her grandkids.)

Talent Show

Bryn and Blake's school had their talent show tonight and it was great. Their school has so much talent! There were three categories; solo, duo, and classes. The solo category was comprised of all vocal solos with the exception of one instrumental solo. To be honest, I didn't think Bryn would place at all because there weren't any monitors on the stage and her track was run so soft she couldn't hear it when she was singing and she lost her timing in one place. I thought Blake would place because he had the "whole package." Cute, worked the stage, and sang well. However, there was a girl who I thought had just as good if not better vocals than Blake and the competition was going to be stiff. When it was all said and done, we had several people approach us and complain at the results. First place was given to a girl who cheated by lip syncing half her song. Then, Bryn was awarded second place and Blake third. I am very proud of both of them, but Blake really did a better job than his sister. They were very good sports and just happy for the opportunity to sing, but I think they learned competitions are much like politics and corruption happens. As long as I can keep Bryn and Blake honest and always doing their best, I will feel successful.
P.S. The last picture is not clear, but I thought it was amusing to see the "streak of red" on the top of Blake's head. LOL
EDIT: To answer Helen's question, Bryn sang "Tomorrow" from the musical "Annie" and Blake sang "I Can't Help Falling In Love With You" from Elvis.

Patient?

Genius is eternal patience.- -- Michelangelo

Do we pray for patience or not? Scripture says it works tribulation. That's a hard question.

Blake Is Blogging

This is an ad for Blake's new blog. I can't guarantee how often he will post, but feel free to visit him at www.blakeallard.blogspot.com.

Enjoying Home for the Holiday

This Memorial Day week-end is known for the most drunk driving accidents of the year. It is speculated these accidents happen because it is the beginning of warm weather, people are out bar-be-queing, and they become more intoxicated than they realize. They leave their celebration and wrecks happen. For this reason, we have always stayed home Memorial Day week-end choosing not to fight the massive traffic and risk being hit by a drunk driver. This year, there is another reason to stay home. Shouldn't our government intervene and get these gas prices lowered? This is ridiculous! I actually saw one station that was $5.25 for diesel but I couldn't get my camera out fast enough.

Time Flies When You're Havin' Fun

The other day I actually got my two redheads to stand still long enough for a snapshot. It has been awhile since I captured the two together. They are growing like bad weeds! Do you think it would slow it down if I put books on their heads? LOL Life - it either moves too slow or too fast. I think I am on the downhill and it seems to be flying.

Bragging On Blake

Zack

At the beginning of this school year, Blake decided he wanted to try out for band. He was accepted in Beginner Band playing saxophone. Within just a few months, he was moved to Advanced Band. The school has nearly 80 students in band and only 15 are in the advanced category. Wednesday evening they had their Spring Concert. Blake was recognized as the only student to advance from beginner to advanced in one school year. Also, Blake's friend and our Spanish minister's son, Zack, received an award for Most Improved Beginner Band. Now, Blake has asked me to teach him piano. I pulled out some of my beginner music from by-gone years when I taught, and within 30 minutes Blake was playing a "two-hand" piece. Next week, he will sing "I Can't Help Falling In Love With You" for the school talent show. Maybe Blake is going to be the artist in the family that can sing and play it all. This boy never ceases to amaze me.

Crash or Climb

Attitude determines altitude.- -- Unknown

Don't you think that will preach? From my experience, it is the good, friendly, charismatic, kind attitude that reaches higher heights. Mean, condemning, negative attitudes seem to have a hard time leaving ground level. I think I'd like to try climbing a little higher.

Common Sense, Where Are You?

The three great essentials to achieving anything worthwhile are; first, hard work, second, stick-to-it-iveness, and third, common sense.- -- Thomas Edison

I agree, but where has common sense gone? It seems to have flown the coop in most of the places I go. Apparently, common sense isn't so common.

Rebate Checks?

As you may have heard, the BUSH ADMINISTRATION said each of us would get a rebate check to stimulate the economy.
If we spend that money at Walmart, all the money will go to CHINA .
If we spend it on gasoline, it will go to the ARABS.
If we purchase a computer it will go to INDIA .
If we purchase fruits and vegetables it will go to MEXICO , HONDURAS , AND GUATEMALA.
If we purchase a good car, it will go to JAPAN .
If we purchase useless junk, it will go to TAIWAN .
None of it will help the American economy. We need to keep that money here in America !
The only way to keep that money here at home is to spend it at GARAGE SALES since those are the only businesses still American owned.

I'm Sorry

I want to extend an apology to anyone who may have misinterpreted my position on racism. A dear friend read one word in some comments and felt very offended, and for this I apologize. My intentions are never to hurt anyone.

Before you stone me, consider reading my entire text and, for the record here is my position - I think all men should be treated equally and fairly. Anyone, regardless of color, who degrades, oppresses, or puts down someone from another race, should be punished. The "N" word should never be tolerated and I think people that use it in a public work place should be terminated from employment. By the same token, anyone in a public work place that says we should eradicate all whites should be terminated, too. I am sickened by cases of racial profiling and police brutality. (And too much more.) It needs to end and any white person involved in such horrific behavior should be punished to the fullest extent of the law. The only hope is to follow Christ. Racism will forever plague us until all people learn forgiveness and everyone learns II Corinthians 13..."the greatest is love."

Thug Theology

Here we go again, but this time it is called "Thug Theology." Obama's new pastor, Otis Moss, calls Tupac Shakur a prophet and claims when Christ was on the cross He was "hanging out with thugs." I personally feel the crucifixion was too sacred an event to speak of it as though it were the "homies on the corner kickin' it."

Friend Mischief Loves to Make People Laugh

I am a Snapdragon What Flower Are You?

"Mischief is your middle name, but your first is friend. You are quite the prankster that loves to make other people laugh."

HYPOCRISY AT BEST

HYPOCRITE!!! He took it off in a hugely publicized, "It's what is in my heart; not on my lapel," and now that his campaign is threatened, he puts it back on. I am thoroughly disgusted with this man's hypocritical politics. He has vacillated his beliefs and frequently contradicts himself.

(AP)Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., wears a U.S. flag pin as he is introduced at a town hall-style meeting at Thorngate Ltd., in Cape Girardeau, Mo., Tuesday, May 13, 2008.

There was also the huge outrage over Obama refusing to cross his heart when the national anthem was played. Some people have rebuttled, "It is not against the law to refuse to cross your heart for the national anthem." They are wrong. It isn't just customary to put your hand over your heart when you hear the national anthem, it is part of the US Code (aka law): Title 36 Chapter 3 section 301. It reads this way:
(a) Designation.— The composition consisting of the words and music known as the Star-Spangled Banner is the national anthem. (b) Conduct During Playing.— During a rendition of the national anthem— (1) when the flag is displayed— (A) all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart; (B) men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart; and (C) individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note; and (2) when the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed.
You can verify at the government's House of Representatives code site at: http://uscode.house.gov

I refuse to vote for a man who blatantly disobeys the laws of this land and disrespects our flag!

I Applaud Ronda!

A few weeks ago, I decided to applaud people. Today I applaud another friend of mine, Ronda Hurst. She is a woman of grace, a perfect hostess, wonderful minister of music, pastor's wife to a most incredible preacher, mother to fellow blogger, Than, and her only daughter, Danelle. Ronda has faced many disappointments in life yet her faith never wavered. She radiates traits of her late mother, enjoys laughter, is kind and gracious. This past week, Ronda was the speaker for the Western District Business Conference Ministers Wives Day. She did an excellent job that inspired all who were there to keep a song in their heart.

The Preacher's Wife

Thankfully, my husband would not embarrass me over the pulpit but I found the below video and thought it was too funny not to share. Have a great week-end!

Trust God

What ought one to say then as each hardship comes? I was practicing for this, I was training for this?- - Epictitus

Be careful to not pass swift judgment on someone. They may be reacting to a difficult situation. We never know what tomorrow may bring nor our responses. If I am faced with a hardship, I hope I would have the strength to call on God and trust His response.

Keep The Faith!

Coming in an e-mail from my friend, Phyllis, is the following quote I wish to share with all the praying people in my life.

Live your life in such a way that when your feet hit the floor in the morning, Satan shudders & says..."Oh no....she's awake!!"

Birthday Wishes & Eagle's Summit Video Links

HAPPY 22nd BIRTHDAY, BRYCE!!!On that day, 22 years ago, I was amazed that your dad and I created such a beautiful baby. You were everything I could have possibly hoped for and more. Your dad would swaddle you tight and within minutes, a little foot would wriggle free from the blanket exposing five perfect, tiny toes. I never knew I could love something/someone so much. Dad and I are proud of the man you have become. We love your sense of style and your talents have exceeded all our expectations but, most of all, we love your dedication to God. Just remember this, you may be 6 feet 3 & 3/4 inches tall but you will always be my baby. I love you so much!

P.S. If you would like to hear the ministry at the 6th Annual Eagle's Summit 2008, click on the below links. These videos include Bryce singing two songs each night. The first link Bryce sings at about 44 minutes and somewhere around 41 minutes on the second link. If you have time, stay tuned for the ministry of Dr. Jeffers.
05-09-08 PM Dr. Gerald Jeffers "Anointed to Die"
05-08-08 PM Dr. Gerald Jeffers "Eagle's Summit Preaching"

Mother's Day 2008

Mother's Day was a lovely day celebrated at church and followed by a nice lunch with my mom, my sister and her family, and my immediate family. We also included Bryce in our festivities since his 22nd birthday is Tuesday. My church family gave me a beautiful bouquet of roses and a gift card for a shopping spree. (I have posted a pic of me and the roses. My eyes look goofy, but I wanted you to see how the roses were ribbon wrapped.) Every lady in attendance at the morning service, received a small box of chocolates, pictured above. During our evening service, we had several mother's speak and the special songs were sung by men in the church. One of the men began to sing a song he had written, and a beautiful presence of the Lord swept amongst us. While he was singing a man who had been estranged from God for quite some time, came to the front and rededicated his life to God. Another young lady came forward, spoke in a heavenly language as the Spirit gave utterance, and met God for the first time. It was a most wonderful day and night. As you can see in the above picture, my kids are growing like bad weeds. Without my high heels on, Blake is nearly as tall as me. My sweet husband gave me a beautiful purse and lavished me with love. I'm not sure where the time is flying to, but I don't want to miss a moment I can spend with my family.

Happy Mother's Day

My assistant, Karry, sang this at this morning's service. All mom's can relate. LOL Have a great Mother's Day!

EDIT 4:07 PM: There was a glitch this morning and Karry actually sang, "I'm A Mom" but will sing the above song this evening.

Eagle's Summit

Dr. Gerald Jeffers

Yesterday and today was the 6th Annual Eagle's Summit. A year ago February, Rev. John Arcovio of Spirit Led Ministries invited Bryce to be a guest artist at this year's conference. At that time, the conference was scheduled to be in St. Joseph, Missouri but was later changed to Merced, California. Another guest of the conference was Dr. Gerald Jeffers of Boston, Massachusetts, who preached several times during the conference. Dr. Jeffers is a uniquely gifted man of God who operates in the Gifts of the Spirit and has been involved in ministry all his life, speaking his first sermon at the age of 12. and becoming a regular speaker by age 14. Bryce had never met Dr. Jeffers but had heard many wonderful things about his ministry. Thursday night, as Dr. Jeffers was approaching the podium following Bryce's singing, Dr. Jeffers hugged Bryce and told him, "God has placed a strong anointing on your life." Today, Bryce was honored to have lunch with Dr. Jeffers and glean a wealth of knowledge. It is amazing how God orchestrates our lives when we are willing to follow His direction. As Bryce's mommy, I am thrilled and excited to watch him walk through the doors God opens for him. I'm not sure where God will lead him, but knowing he is in God's will soothes my soul.

freeWAY's New Ad Site

freeWAY's website is not completed, but they have created a MySpace Music page. I have not been a fan of MySpace and have discouraged my son from joining. However, we recently learned that MySpace gives free pages to artists and it is a different category where you cannot search by town, age, gender, etc. The page was set-up where comments or new links must go to my husband's e-mail before they can be posted or linked to the boys site. We don't want any "bad" things showing up on the page. If you would like to see the new page, please visit: www.myspace.com/freewayquartet

Doris Akers

On my CD, I recorded a couple songs written by Doris Akers who I believe wrote under the inspiration of God which came through much prayer. She was born in 1923, one of ten children, began playing the piano by ear at age six, wrote her first song at 10, and at 12 years of age had organized a five piece band. In 1958 this African-American lady started a racially mixed gospel group, The Sky Pilot Choir. During that year, she also co-wrote "Lord, Don't Move That Mountain," with Mahalia Jackson. One Sunday morning in 1962, while directing the Sky Pilot Choir, she said to her singers, “You are not ready to go in.” She didn’t believe they had prayed enough! They were accustomed to spending time with her in prayer before the service, asking God to bless their songs. She said, “I feel that prayer is more important than great voices.” They had already prayed, but this particular morning she asked them to pray again, and they did so with renewed fervor. As they prayed, Doris began to wonder how she could stop this wonderful prayer meeting. You can read more here: www.cbn.com/spirituallife/devotions/terry_sweet_spirit.aspx While researching Doris Akers, I came upon this video of Tim Spell singing one of her songs. (If anyone ever comes across a video of Doris Akers, please forward it to me.)

Dreams Can Come True

The vision must be followed by the venture.

It is not enough to stare up the steps - We must step up the stairs.- Vance Havner

Go ahead, start climbing and make your dreams reality.

Week In Review

Last Saturday, we traveled with freeWAY to Sacramento for the youth event Infusion. The boys sang well in spite of some sound issues, sold some CD's, and then headed to San Jose East Valley Pentecostal Church.
On Sunday, my husband spoke during the "Pastor's Hour," then freeWAY and I sang during the following Jubilee service. EVPC is a beautiful church (check out their website at http://www.evpc.org/) and everything is meticulously cared for and managed. freeWAY, Bryce, Tyler, and I all did quite well with CD sales. If we had a place like that every week, we could definitely go on the road full time. LOL We had a wonderful lunch at Pastor Rodney Nelson's home, visited with friends, and finally headed back home Sunday evening.
Monday was a hurried day with doctor's appointments and hosting the Section Two Business Conference. There were some changes of positions, dinner served, and I went home exhausted.
Tuesday, Mark Yandris of Merced spoke to our musicians and singers and taught some new material. Afterwards, Mark came to the house for dinner and we had a great time chatting.
Wednesday, we had a missions service with special guest, Patty Hines. She has been an A.I.M. (short term) missionary to Madagascar and is now going to the Philippines. A DVD was shown of the many things in which she was involved in Madagascar.
Thursday, I sang at a ladies conference in Tulare hosted by Abundant Life Center under the direction of Stephany Parkey. I consider Stephany to be a very dear friend and admire her dedication to the work of God. Her ladies conference is always fabulous and well organized.
Friday, we attended the 50th wedding anniversary of Rev. and Mrs. Harvey Cantrell. Rev. Cantrell performed Brian and my wedding ceremony in 1979. The Cantrell's are a great couple and we love them dearly. I slipped out early to return to the ladies conference in Tulare where several miracles took place.
Saturday, I returned to the ladies conference for the chocolate themed banquet. There was good food, several different fruits, chocolate on the tables, a chocolate fountain, chocolate gifts, and entertainment by recording artist Karen Harding that made me laugh until I cried. Following the banquet, I met my husband and kids to spend the remaining part of the day with them. It was an enjoyable evening spent together.
Tomorrow, Karen Harding will be ministering at our evening service. She has already put in her request that I make her my famous burritos, so guess what I will be cooking? LOL
Even though it was a busy week, I thoroughly enjoyed traveling to the various places and visiting with friends. I hope you all have a blessed time as you worship tomorrow in your various congregations.

Help! I Can't Breathe!

If you live in a city with clean air, count your blessings. In our area, the weatherman gives "air" reports along with temperatures for the day. If it is a "bad air day," the elementary school students are not allowed to have recess and must remain inside their classrooms. In 2006, we had more "bad air" days than good ones. The San Joaquin Valley is a difficult place for smog to rise above and respiratory ailments are rampant in this area. Below is a news release about our rank. (Above photo of Los Angeles smog)

Bakersfield Not Breathing Any Easier
BY STACEY SHEPARD, Californian staff writer, Wednesday, Apr 30 2008 9:13 PM
Bakersfield was again ranked the second smoggiest city in America behind Los Angeles in the annual American Lung Association's State of the Air report released Wednesday. The city held the same position last year and ranked No. 1 the nation in 2006. Rankings are based on air quality in major cities from 2004 to 2006.
"We're never going to do well in this ranking," said Brenda Turner, a spokeswoman for the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. "Our air quality is improving but we still have a long way to go and we need everyone's help." Turner said the good news is that Bakersfield had one of its best smog seasons in decades in 2007, a year not analyzed in the American Lung Association report.
Bakersfield also ranked fourth this year in a separate category for daily levels of particulate matter pollution, which occurs in winter months and is considered the air pollutant most harmful to human health. The city held the same spot last year. The top five polluted cities list looks about the same as previous years. California cities generally top the list because its geography and climate make them prone to smog.

Attack or Revelation

In light of recent political happenings, I began to think about some of the controversies we have heard through the media. Sometimes news releases are viewed as an attack but, after some thought, I would ask, "Is it an attack or a revelation?" When someone runs for a political office, it is fair to learn as much as possible about their personality, character traits, convictions, and associates to allow the public to determine if the candidate is worthy of a supporting vote. Negative knowledge is often released by an opponent as an attack but this happens with any campaign regardless of party. I will not be so loyal to a party that I cannot objectively make a decision as to what candidate I feel is best. Reveal to me as much as possible for each candidate, and then I will make my decision. What may seem to an attack can often be a revelation. Scripture has told us what is done in secret will be shouted from the house tops. It also says your sin will find you out. If you don't want it revealed, don't do it.