Jana's Jive Talkin'

Never Dull and Boring

2012-01-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

Go ahead and chuckle. I not only giggled but I laughed till I cried when this goofy character showed up in my house. This past fall, my oldest son Bryce signed a contract for his first full-time teaching job as a middle school music teacher. The first picture is of him directing one of his classes at their winter program. As professional as he can look and act, there are those occasions he decides to be a goober. He found a fake cigarette in some of his stuff and the next thing that shows up in the living room, is this redneck. A few months before Christmas, he made a comment about wanting a pirate hat. Not only did I find him the hat, I also found a pirate shirt. Soon after opening his gifts, he went to his room and reappeared as a pirate. I am very proud of my son and his accomplishments this past year but, I also enjoy the fun he brings into our home. Life is never dull and boring around him.

Healthy Relationships Are A Two-Way Street

2012-01-12T15:09:00.000-08:00

"She didn't even speak to me." "He walked right by be and wouldn't even look at me." Have you ever heard statements similar to these or even made such a comment? Throughout my lifetime of working with people, I would have to say, I have heard such remarks many times and I have a standard reply. That is, "Did you speak to them?" If it was not so pitiful, it would be funny. The fact is, there are many people who live in such a self-centered world. Yes, I said it; self-centered because they believe everyone should come to them, do for them, without returning anything. A relationship is not solo. It requires interaction between two. If a person always gives and never receives anything in return, that person will eventually give up on trying to maintain the relationship and search elsewhere for a friend. Healthy relationship are two-sided; a partnership of giving and receiving. Yes, relationships are a two-way street.

They Walk Amongst Us

2012-01-09T13:27:00.000-08:00

Yes, "they" walk amongst us. Who? Negative minds, stubborn spirits, hateful hearts, or "they" are sometimes referred to with common names such as idiots, jerks, egomaniacs, haters, and the list can continue. These types of characters are often the source of our frustrations however, such frustration is allowing "them" to control us. So, what should we do? Here are my recommendations upon facing "them":

Smile, say "Hello," and keep moving.
Don't give them an audience in which to spew their ignorance.
Be kind.
Don't retaliate and stoop to their level.
Be strong.
Resist the urge to defend yourself.

Finally, remember time proves all things. Yes, "they" walk amongst us but our responses determine how much control they attain. We can't stop "them" from walking amongst us but, we can determine how much power they are given over us.

Do You Mean What You Pray?

2012-01-06T22:45:00.000-08:00

The past few days, I have been thinking about prayer and some of the things people say when they pray. Do they really mean everything they say? When they ask God to do something, are they sure about what they are asking?

Have you ever heard someone pray, "Show me your ways, Lord." I wonder if the Lord were to suddenly show them His path of affliction and suffering if they would still want God to see His ways? Or, they ask God to send a revival. Really? What kind of revival? If you are not specific, the revival might be someone dying in front of you and being resuscitated. One should be careful how they pray. Do you really mean what you pray?

Meet A Need

2012-01-03T23:05:00.000-08:00

Whining goats or sweet sheep? As for me, I do not tolerate whining, complaining, negative people. Rather than give them a shoulder to cry on, I will give them a hand, pull them up, and pray for them. When one walks with God, follows in His footsteps, there is no pause or focus to join someone for the purpose to commiserate, but rather notice their need and meet it. Jesus didn’t spend time listening to people whine – He saw their need and met it. He wasn’t a sympathetic ear; He was a problem solver. It is so much easier to meet a need for a sweet sheep than hours spent with a whining goat........just sayin'.

African CousCous - Our Christmas Tradition

2011-12-26T08:40:00.000-08:00

This was posted a couple years ago but I have been asked again for the recipe so, here's a duplicate post. Christmas Eve is usually a huge variety of foods but Christmas Day couscous is our traditional meal.

1 Tbsp. oil ( use olive oil)
2 to 3 lbs. chicken (I use boneless, skinless breast tenders)
2 yellow onion, sliced
4 cloves finely chopped garlic
3 tsp. ground coriander (I heap the tsp.)
2 Tbsp. instant chicken bouillon (I use "Better Than Bouillon")
2 tsp. ground red pepper
2 tsp. ground turmeric (heaping)
7-9 zucchini, cut into 1/2 inch slices
2 lbs. baby carrots
2 2/3 cups of plain couscous
1 1/2 cup raisins

Cook chicken in oil until slightly brown on all sides then place in large pot. (Big stock pot) Add to large pot carrots, onions, garlic, coriander, bouillon, red pepper, and turmeric. Cover with water and heat to boiling. Let simmer a 10-15 minutes than add zucchini. Cook until chicken turns yellow and vegetables are done. Serve over couscous. (I sometimes let this simmer an hour but you don't have to wait that long.)

In a two quart bowl, mix couscous, raisins, and a 1/2 tsp. of salt then pour 2 cups of boiling water over it. Let stand 5-7 minutes until all the water is absorbed. In a large skillet, put 2 sticks (1 cup) of butter or margarine and 2 rounded/heaping tsp. ground turmeric. When butter is melted and turmeric mixed in, add the couscous. Cook and stir until all the couscous looks yellow and is fluffy like rice.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-19T00:14:00.000-08:00

Yes, I said it - CHRISTmas. AND, there wouldn't be Christmas if Christ had not been born. In a world that screams tolerance, can I submit the idea that tolerance is a two-way street? Can I agree to disagree? If you choose to hate the word "Christmas" and believe there is not a God, I will be more than happy to allow you to have that opinion. On the other hand, please give me the same right to say I DO believe in a God, Jesus is His name, and I LOVE Christmas.

Whew.........got that off my chest........now, please have a very Merry Christmas. I love you!

Sad/Happy

2011-02-15T08:48:00.000-08:00

Smearing malicious propaganda does not heal but rather lengthens bitter roots which attach deep in the soul never to escape eternal sorrow. - Jana Allard

A malicious person lives to injure others but will ultimately die lonely and sad regardless of status. Kindness and love will reap in kind with an abundance of happiness. The choice is yours.

Rambling...

2011-02-11T00:39:00.000-08:00

It seemed to arrive quick and I am now questioning 2011, what happened to January? Was it here? Did I fall into a coma and awaken in February? YIKES! Time is moving faster than I want it. Of course, January is always the most difficult month of the year for me. The dreaded year-ending reports, tax statements, etcetera and, somewhere in there, finding time to celebrate Blake's birthday. By the way, he is now 14 years old, grew seven inches from June to September, and is proudly achieving straight "A's." He gave up soccer to spend time learning American Sign Language and is now part of a dramatic sign team ministering to hearing impaired. Friends are many and he is a loyal friend in return. Even though he now towers far above me, he still bends to kiss me every morning before leaving for school. Yes, I am a proud mom and I love my boy.

Red Velvet Cake

2010-12-24T10:33:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year and I am still getting requests for this recipe of my husband's Red Velvet Cake. He claims you cannot substitute any item because it will not taste right nor turn out right. Follow the directions and enjoy! Have a very Merry Christmas!!!

Brian's Red Velvet Cake

1/2 cup shortening

1 & 1/2 cup sugar

2 eggs

2 tsp. cocoa

2 (1 oz.) bottles of red food coloring

1 tsp. baking soda

1 cup buttermilk

1 tsp salt

2 & 1/4 cup sifted all-purpose flour

1 tsp. vanilla

1 tsp. vinegar

Cream shortening, sugar, and eggs. Well! Mix cocoa and food coloring. Add to creamed mixture. Sift flour three times. (yes, Brian sifts it 3 times) Alternately add flour and buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour. Add vanilla. Mix vinegar and soda. Add to creamed mixture. Bake at 350. Grease and flour pans (three 9 inch cake tins). Bake 25 minutes.

Red Cake Frosting

2 cubes of Imperial margarine (He insist on Imperial)

1 cup sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

3 heaping Tbsp. flour

1 cup milk

Cream Imperial margarine, sugar, and vanilla for 5 minutes with electric mixer. Mix milk and flour then cook over medium heat stirring constantly with a whisk until thickened. Set it aside until it is completely cool. After it is cool, add to creamed mixture. Mix well. (Like thick whipping cream) Set in fridge to chill for about 30 minutes. If this is not completely cool before continuing to the next step, it will not turn out right. Mix again and then frost the cake. The secret to this frosting is enough patience to mix it long enough. Longer mixing makes better frosting.

Real Service

2010-10-04T07:40:00.000-07:00

To give real service
you must add something
which cannot be bought or measured with money,
and that is
sincerity and integrity.
- Donald A. Adams

Stay True

2010-09-27T12:38:00.000-07:00

Real heroes are men who fall and fail and are flawed, but win out in the end because they've stayed true to their ideals and beliefs and commitments.
- Kevin Costner

Do Your Best

2010-09-25T22:24:00.000-07:00

Being forced to work, and forced to do your best,
will breed in you temperance and self-control,
diligence and strength of will,
cheerfulness and content,
and a hundred virtues which the idle never know.
- Charles Kingsley

Love Deeply: Fountain of Youth?

2010-09-24T23:17:00.000-07:00

Those who love deeply never grow old;

they may die of old age, but they die young.
- A.W. Pinero

Sweeter Now...

2010-09-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

4 years of dating + 31 years of marriage = 35 years

of life and love.

I'm still in love after all these years.

In fact, it is sweeter now than then.
We've come a long way, baby.

Happy Anniversary, Brian.

What Happened to Decency???

2010-09-10T08:34:00.000-07:00

Self-respect, decency, and modesty have become foreign to America. Does anybody know where such virtues went? The more I am in public, the more disgusted I become. Rolls of flesh are exposed and on display everywhere my eyes land, and garments look as if they have been painted onto bodies with many of them not having enough "paint" to finish the job. Young or old, it makes no difference. Nothing is left to the imagination. Recently, we took my in-laws out to an elegant dinner to celebrate their anniversary. In this fine dining establishment, two grossly overweight women entered wearing skin-tight, ripped jeans with painted on dirty looking t-shirts that exposed their large midriffs. Is there no shame? America needs a revival of pride and decency.

WWW.MYHOPERADIO.COM

2010-09-07T01:08:00.000-07:00

If you enjoy godly music, chances are you can find a style you prefer at www.myhoperadio.com. This website is the internet radio voice of the United Pentecostal Church International. Myhope.com has been playing my CD on their site for quite awhile and recently contacted me requesting an interview for their newly developed blog. I am honored and flattered to be their featured artist this week. You can read mine and other artists interviews at www.myradio.wordpress.com. Also, feel free to listen to tunes from the official website while you work or browse the internet. At the home page, select the style you prefer or random shuffle. Best of all, it is completely free.

Abundant Life

2010-09-05T09:25:00.000-07:00

The abundant life does not come to those

who have had a lot of obstacles removed from their path by others.

It develops from within

and is rooted in strong mental and moral fiber.
-William Mather Lewis

That "strong mental and moral fiber" comes from God.

"The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy:

I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."
John 10:10 (KJV)

Are You Brave?

2010-09-03T07:32:00.000-07:00

Physical courage, which despises all danger,
will make a man brave in one way;
and moral courage, which despises all opinion,
will make a man brave in another.
- Charles Caleb Colton

Whatsoever...

2010-08-31T08:36:00.000-07:00

With this new age of Facebook, Twitter, and numerous other social sites, it has become easy for people to slander, spew filth, and lash out in anger. Some use the guise that their venting is necessary for their healing. However, smearing malicious propaganda does not heal but rather lengthens bitter roots which attach deep in the soul never to escape eternal sorrow. If one wants true peace, follow Philippians 4:8. "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." (KJV)

The Average Man

2010-08-25T16:29:00.000-07:00

The virtues which keep this world sweet

and the faithfulness which keeps it steadfast

are chiefly those of the average man.
- W. Russell Bowie

A Few Pics...

2010-08-23T23:48:00.000-07:00

Bryn in a rock cave at Madonna Inn
Bryn and Daddy playing in the sand

Blake playing on the beach

Bryce and Blake at Montana de Oro

Bryce at Montana de Oro

Blake, Sparkles and Bryn crusin' camp

Bryn at Madonna Inn doors

Of Life and Love

2010-08-08T14:23:00.000-07:00

It was 35 years ago today, I had my first date with Brian. We didn't realize that night we were taking the first step towards a together-forever-life. Looking back, it was the first impressions of that night that caught me. He opened the car door for me, opened the door to the restaurant, put the sweetener in my iced tea, placed my order with the waitress, and was a perfect gentleman. Just a couple weeks later, we attended the same youth camp and I watched him as he prayed for those who desired a closer walk with the Lord. That sealed the deal for me. I realized he could have walked out of the tabernacle and joined friends at the snack bar but he made the choice to help someone in need.

This beginning was followed by four years of long-distance dating without the benefits of a phone or the Internet. It was handwritten letters sent by snail-mail across the ocean and a two or three minute call on Christmas. His letters to me were always splashed with his cologne and I knew from the wafting fragrance I had a letter in the mail even before I could see it. Sometimes, I pull a letter from a box and smile as I recall our young love.

With lots of miles from traveling around the world working in missions, pastoring, teaching, singing, and three children later, I pause to reminiscence. What a journey we have been on! It's been fun - it's been real - it's been somewhat crazy - it's been life and love.

It's That Time of Year

2010-07-24T22:18:00.000-07:00

Camp, camp, and more camp. Next week is Junior Youth Camp for seven to 14 year olds. The following week is Camp Meeting for families and, the third week is Senior Youth Camp for 15 to 25 year olds. One of the benefits is the location. These camps are all held on the Central California Coast and the weather is a taste of heaven. The days are usually in the 70's and the nights dip to the low 50's. Coming from the San Joaquin Valley where summer days are over 100 degrees, the coast weather is a huge drawing card to the valley people. Pictures and updates will be posted later. In the meantime, what are you doing for your summer? Are you involved in any camps?

Say What?

2010-07-06T01:05:00.000-07:00

When God Speaks...

...you can take it to the bank.

One of our new babes-in-Christ felt like he received a message from God through a vision. Here's the story. His fiancee was great with child and all ultrasounds had indicated she would have a girl. The baby shower was full of frills and lots of pink but...something happened. In the vision, the dad heard a voice say, "You will not have a girl but thou shalt have a son and thou shalt call his name Elijah." He saw himself in the hospital and the doctors telling him it was a boy. The rest of the story is that daddy is very happy and mommy, although very happy, is quite surprised. Oh, and I visited them at the hospital today and Elijah is a beautiful boy. Congrats to the new mommy and daddy!!!

Some Pics of Summer Happenings

2010-07-01T20:32:00.000-07:00

Blake in the California State Assembly
Bryn in the California State Senate

Blake at the Museum of Fine Arts, San Francisco

Bryce, Bryn, and Blake overlooking San Francisco

My beautiful princess Bryn with her hair blowing in the breeze.

San Francisco, California

Bryce and Bryn on a San Francisco Cable Car

Bryn drinking sparkling cider at a wedding reception

"Good Looking"

2010-06-28T00:36:00.000-07:00

The one I call "Good Looking" is now taller than me. While traveling with freeWAY on their Texas tour, Blake decided to buy a cowboy hat. I think he makes a pretty cute cowboy. I hope your summer is sailing smooth. Mine is very busy but I will try to post pics and videos as soon as possible.

Roles of Coaching

2010-06-07T18:44:00.000-07:00

Coaching roles vary, but typical work activities are likely to include:

Performance Management:

 evaluate performance and provide suitable feedback
 balance criticism with positive and motivating comments
 assess strengths and weaknesses in one’s performance and identify areas for further development
 communicate instructions and commands using clear, simple language
 demonstrate an activity by breaking the task down into a sequence
 encourage one to gain and develop skills, knowledge and techniques
 ensure that one trains and performs to a high standard
 inspire confidence
 act as a role model, gain the respect and trust of the people you work with
 work to a high ethical standard at all times

You Need A Coach

2010-06-04T22:24:00.000-07:00

While traveling with freeway Quartet on their recent tour in the Houston, Texas area, I had a thought I wish to share. The law requires children to attend school and there they receive instruction which will affect their entire life. Most students, cannot wait for graduation day and school to end, yet, there are some who have lofty goals and a desire to achieve . Whatever path one chooses, they all must become a “performer.” Every career can be successful, according to performance. Each student/performer, must make a choice to just “pass the grade” or excel. So what can make a difference? In my opinion, it is the willingness to accept a coach.

All students have a teacher who provides instruction, but that only equips the student with knowledge of technique and skill. It does not guarantee how well the student can perform said techniques or what level of skill is reached. This is readily identified by the grade given. Instructors play a vital role but more than instruction is needed to be successful. What pushes one to greatness, is an aggressive coach who will take a competent student/performer and push him to perfection. A coach will help a performer work towards achieving their full potential and bring out ability by identifying needs, then plan and implement suitable training.

The sports and entertainment world has many coaches. Every gold medalist had a great coach. Have you ever wondered if the coach was so good, why didn’t he or she perform for the gold? The fact is, the coach may not be able to physically perform but they know what it takes to make a great performer. A classic example is Michael Jordan who was a star athlete who decided to try coaching and he was a lousy coach. On the other hand, Phil Jackson was not a power player but became a star coach. These two men joined their respective expertise and became great.

Throughout the years, my husband and I have loved working with young people. We have taken several groups of youth on foreign missions trips, worked with them at youth camps, taught youth convention choir and, most recently worked with freeWAY Quartet. These four young men were all members of WAY (Western All-State Youth) Choir. There they received vocal instruction and were taught technique. After singing just two songs and seeing the great potential, I encouraged these four young men to record. I readily admit there have been times when the coaching my husband and I gave them was rough and there were days attitudes flared. However, through perseverance and the desire to sing to the best of their ability, these young men are now sought after accomplished vocalists.

In the spiritual realm, one attends church and receives instruction through various ministries that use the Word of God to teach technique and skill. The instruction can be received, the Word planted, and some will become “star” saints while others never rise above mediocre. The coach (pastor) sees potential and works hard to push the saint to excel but the choice remains with the saint - get angry at the pastor’s prodding or push through the rigors of hard training and achieve. The pastor only wants what is best for the saints, improved performance, and a desire to see them become great in the Kingdom of God. If only people understood the purpose and value of a coach.

freeWAY Update

2010-06-03T19:39:00.001-07:00

freeWAY with Pastor Rob and Mrs. Shara McKee in Katy, Texas

This poor blog must surely feel neglected. It isn't intentional but my internet access was quite limited this past week while touring in Texas with freeWAY. The quartet did a great job and was well received in every venue. For more updates, visit: www.facebook.com/mrnbcox#!/pages/California/freeWAY-Quartet/107682435926858?ref=ts&ajaxpipe=1&__a=25

While traveling, Keith (freeWAY tenor) and I had a discussion about instructors, coaches and performers. It prompted many thoughts and, hopefully, I will put them together and share them with you in a few days. Hope life is treating you fair and you are enjoying your summer.

Three Great Essentials

2010-05-20T08:25:00.000-07:00

The three great essentials to achieving anything worthwhile are;

first, hard work,

second, stick-to-it-iveness,

and third, common sense.
- Thomas Edison

Happy Birthday to Bryce

2010-05-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

(Bryce singing at Eagle's Summit, May 2010)

Happy Birthday, Bryce.

Hope you have enjoyed your day.

My first born, my son, you will forever be.
I love you,

Mommy

A Mother's Love...

2010-05-09T23:04:00.001-07:00

...goes beyond all boundaries. Here is an incredible story of the love and care a mother gives her gravely wounded son.

There are mothers who will spend today missing sons and daughters fighting overseas. There are women who have lost children in those wars, for whom Mother's Day will never be the same.
And then there is Eva Briseno.

Joseph Briseno Jr., Eva's 27-year-old son, is one of the most severely wounded soldiers ever to survive. A bullet to the back of his head in a Baghdad marketplace in 2003 left him paralyzed, brain-damaged and blind, but awake and aware of his condition.

Eva takes care of "Jay" in her suburban Virginia home where the family room has been transformed into an intensive care unit, with the breathing machine and tubes he needs to stay alive. Click on below link for the rest of the story.

http://apnews.excite.com/article/20100509/D9FJ36UO0.html

My Greatest Achievement

2010-05-09T07:23:00.000-07:00

For All the Moms

2010-05-08T22:05:00.000-07:00

Casa de Fruta

2010-05-07T23:59:00.000-07:00

Returning from Eagle's Summit, we stopped for a few minutes at Casa de Fruta. www.casadefruta.com The kids enjoyed the antiques and I was able to get a few good snapshots of them. I think I had as much fun watching them as they did exploring.

Renaissance of Wonder

2010-05-06T23:58:00.000-07:00

We need a renaissance of wonder.

We need to renew,

in our hearts and in our souls,

the deathless dream, the eternal poetry,

the perennial sense that life is miracle and magic.
- E. Merrill Root

And The Greatest Is Love...

2010-05-03T07:37:00.000-07:00

I will make love my greatest weapon

and none on who I call can defend against its force.

My love will melt all hearts

liken to the sun whose rays soften the coldest day.
- Og Mandino

Busses for Sale

2010-04-28T19:38:00.000-07:00

$4,000 each or best offer.

Excellent maintenance records and CHP approved. Further questions, e-mail ballard@bak.rr.com.

I'm Back

2010-04-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

After having computer trouble and finally purchasing a new one, I am finally back to visit my blog friends but, frankly, I am disgusted today. I just read Archie Comics is introducing a gay character. My kids have read Archie Comics for years and own hundreds of copies. They keep stacks in their restrooms. LOL Our journey with Archie Comics is now coming to an end. The gay agenda should not be forced upon children. I find this to be quite disturbing. The article giving this news can be found at: http://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AB/20100426/ENT07/4260349/

I have already lodged my complaint at talkback@archiecomics.com

Goodbye, Archie, Jughead, Betty and Veronica. It was nice meeting you.

Tax Day Tea Party-Bakersfield

2010-04-17T00:21:00.000-07:00

Bryce with talk show host Inga Barks at the Tax Day Tea Party 2010 in Bakersfield. She is now working on a syndicated show. http://www.kernradio.com/pages/5860237.php?

More Tea Party news here: http://www.bakersfield.com/news/local/x735122708/Tea-Party-rally-nets-enthusiastic-crowd

Future California Secretary of State?

2010-04-15T22:39:00.001-07:00

Today I sang at a Tax Day Tea Party (I'll post more pics later) and Damon Dunn, NFL star, was one of the speakers. Born in poverty, this man wants to fight for California's economy and restore our state. He is running for California Secretary of State 2010. You can meet him here: http://hiphoprepublican.com/politics/campaigns/2009/10/18/damon-dunn-nfl-star-republican-seeks-ca-secretary-of-state/

Got Fish?

2010-04-12T08:33:00.000-07:00

During Spring Break, Blake spent a few days with his Grandma and Grandpa. He and grandpa spent a couple days fishing and, when Bryn found out, she was begging for grandpa to take her fishing. So what do you think happened? LOL Of course, grandpa had the honor of taking Bryn on her first fishing trip. She caught the "biggest" fish and was so excited believing she was better at fishing than any of the guys. Ha!!! What great memories were made!!!

College/Career Social Time

2010-04-07T10:16:00.000-07:00

If you are college/career person, please feel free to attend this event in Stockton, California. This will be following the Friday evening service of the Western District Youth Convention.

Gravitas Gravitas Café

Date: Friday, April 9th

Place: CLC Student Center

9023 West Lane

Stockton, CA 95210

Time: 11pm-2am

Cost: $5

(purchase tickets in advance at the Gravitas booth and be entered to win an iPod or iTunes gift card)

Our Family - Easter 2010

2010-04-06T23:47:00.000-07:00

Easter 2010

2010-04-05T01:49:00.000-07:00

Three Easter eggs in a basket? LOL

That is my beautiful kids.

Blake & Bryn with their Easter baskets.
The newest member of our congregation. :)
Beautiful Clara in her first Easter dress.

Evangelist James Dunlap blessed us with his guitar playing, singing, and preaching.

It was a wonderful Easter. We had several presentations of music, a guest speaker, the grass had grown tall making the Easter egg hunt especially fun for the children, then a barbecue later in the afternoon with bounce houses for the kids. Brian grilled Halibut and Salmon. It was delicious! Hope you all had a wonderful day celebrating Jesus.

Some Things Can't Be Excused

2010-03-30T11:17:00.000-07:00

Is his excuse good enough? I think not. Click on below link for article. This happened in our town and a girl from our church was in this class. In my opinion, this man needs to be under mental health care.......for a long time and kept away from mainstream society.

http://delano.bakersfieldnow.com/content/teacher-accused-urinating-class-ex-priest

Living From Drama to Drama (roll eyes LOL)

2010-03-26T22:14:00.001-07:00

One friend put it to me this way, "If it wasn't for bad luck, you wouldn't have any luck at all." Well, it might seem that way but I would rather look at it this way - what the devil meant for bad the Lord made it good.

As you know, if you keep up with my blog, I recently had a miraculous healing after dealing with an issue for over a year. Looking back, I believe God gave me this healing at the time he did to increase our faith for another ordeal. In January, my husband went to the doctor for his annual physical. The doctor thought my husband's pulse in his right carotid artery was weak so he sent him for testing to determine if there was a blockage. The test came back perfect but revealed there was something on the thyroid. Further testing determined he had a large mass on the right lobe of his thyroid and he was immediately referred to a surgeon. The surgeon estimated the mass to be about the size of a golf ball and scheduled surgery to remove it and one underarm lymph node. (We had also discovered a lump under my husband's arm.) Of course, the dreaded "C" word was brought up but we put our trust in God. Last Tuesday, my husband was the first one wheeled into surgery and all went well. The doctor said the mass was larger than he anticipated but he believed it to be benign. This was confirmed today by the pathology report. My husband has had some intense pain but is now on the road to recovery and so grateful there was no malignancy found in the lymph node and mass on the thryoid.

To God be all glory forever!!!

Focus

2010-03-25T00:06:00.000-07:00

If I have ever made any valuable discoveries,

it has been owing more to patient attention

than to any other talent.

- Isaac Newton

Ya Think?

2010-03-22T00:21:00.000-07:00

"The problem with socialism,

is that you eventually run out of other peoples' money"
- Margaret Thatcher

Ya think? Listen up, America!

WDLC Snapshots

2010-03-18T20:18:00.001-07:00

UPCI Ladies President, Gwyn Oakes
Recording Artist, Bobbie Shoemake

Day Speaker, Linda Elms of Lufkin, Texas

and her sister, Ronda Hurst, Western District Ladies Secretary

Western District Ladies President, Laquita Mullings

Myself (WDLC master coordinator) and

Evening Speaker, Cyvonne Davy of Tampa, Florida

Recording Artists, The Gordon Sisters of Denver, Colorado

Part of the crowd.

Podium decor by designer, Cindy Mullings

My favorite pic! This is three sisters, Ronda Hurst, Karla Holley, and Linda Elms. Our promotional director, Anita Harding, did a fabulous job using this photo to promote Mothers Memorial.

Brag Moment

2010-03-13T10:13:00.000-08:00

Shaking hands with Vice-Principal Parnell
Just received flowers and a balloon from daddy

Posing with her teacher, Mrs. Lancaster

Once again, Bryn was Student of the Month. Her teacher spoke about Bryn and said, "If I was not here, Bryn could run the entire classroom." LOL Her teacher asked if she could challenge Bryn because she "wants to be needed" just a little bit. Bryn loves her teacher, loves school and is involved in Theatre and Arts, Choir, Chess Club, and GATE. She keeps a very busy schedule for a third-grade student. Today, because of her participation in Theatre and Arts, she is getting to go on a field trip to see a stage performance of "Annie." I am so proud of my princess.

Life

2010-03-10T16:18:00.000-08:00

Life is an opportunity, benefit from it.

Life is a beauty, admire it.

Life is a dream, realize it.

Life is a challenge, meet it.

Life is a duty, complete it.

Life is a game, play it.

Life is a promise, fulfill it.

Life is sorrow, overcome it.

Life is a song, sing it.

Life is a struggle, accept it.

Life is a tragedy, confront it.

Life is an adventure, dare it.

Life is luck, make it.

Life is life, fight for it!

- Mother Teresa

Power In Unity

2010-03-06T22:25:00.000-08:00

The world is moved

not only by the mighty shoves of the heroes,

but also by the aggregate

of the tiny pushes of each honest worker.

- Helen Keller

Miracles Still Happen

2010-03-01T23:38:00.000-08:00

Some of you may remember my posts about the ordeal I was going through with my foot/ankle and the pictures of the brace I wore last summer. Here is the whole story - condensed version.

About 17 months ago, a frozen bottle of water fell out of my fridge and landed on the top of my foot. My foot swelled, was quite painful but, I ignored it and tried to keep going not realizing I had blown out one of two tendons in the foot. The end result was I caused further damage. After being examined by seven doctors (including specialists at UCLA), numerous x-rays, MRI's, wearing a brace for months and such, I was weary and agreed to surgery. The surgeon was going to break my ankle, put cadaver bone in it to realign it, transplant a tendon to the top of my foot, realign the toes, and stretch the tendon in the back of my calf. Following surgery, I would not be allowed to let the foot touch the ground for two months, then I would be in a boot for five months, and was told recovery was a minimum of a year.

I never doubted that God could heal me and I have experienced many miracles in my lifetime but, I must admit, my faith was being shaken. There have been so many prayers prayed and I was at a point where I thought, "Maybe this is just my thorn in the flesh and I must endure." Even so, I wanted to hold onto faith. I told God if He wasn't going to heal me "today" would He please give me a miracle before the scheduled surgery on March 16. On Saturday, we went to the district singles conference in Visalia, California. At the end of the service, Sis. Karen Harding (pictured above) literally climbed over people to get to me and she began to pray for my healing. Shortly after, Bro. Stoneking, Bro. James Dunlap and several others prayed for me. Afterwards, my foot and ankle felt like fire was moving through it. I turned to my husband and told him my foot was on fire. He began to cry and said, "Honey, I told God when He healed you to make your foot, ankle and leg feel a heat to let you know you were being healed."

For the first time in over a year, I stood Saturday night with both knees side by side and both feet together. My foot that was turned out is now straight. When I got home, I stood in my dressing room and cried as my husband watched my foot flex and we could see TWO tendons. Sunday morning, he watched as I walked down the stairs of our house and my foot was perfectly straight. I am walking straight and pain-free.

This morning I had an appointment with the doctor. I told the office staff, "I don't know if you believe in divine healing but I have received a miracle and do not need surgery." They were speechless but had huge smiles on their faces. One of the girls went to the cash drawer and brought my check back to me and said there was no need to pay anything. I told her I didn't mind paying since I wasn't able to cancel the appointment within their required time but she said, "No, I am so happy for you and I think it is ok to give your check back to you." I am overwhelmed. God is more than amazing.

P.S. The wheelchair is now going to storage.

Recipe for Success?

2010-02-20T15:40:00.000-08:00

Hold yourself responsible for a higher standard

than anybody else expects of you.

Never excuse yourself.

Never pity yourself.

Be a hard master to yourself and,

be lenient to everybody else.

- Henry Ward Beecher

Daniel Fast

2010-02-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

At the first of the year, my husband Brian decided to do a 14 day Daniel Fast and several from our congregation joined him. After the 14 days, Brian decided to continue this fast for another 26 days. On the 4th day of the fast, Brian had a complete blood panel and a few days later received a phone call from his doctor telling him his results were horrible, his liver a mess, and he wanted to repeat the test in 30 days. It was only 25 days later when Brian repeated the blood test and, once again, the doctor called but this time said, "I don't know what you have done, but your blood panel now looks like someone half your age." His total cholesterol went from 212 to 151 and his glucose changed from 199 to 111. Brian has also lost nearly 30 pounds and is quite encouraged with all the new results.

Here's my dilemma. I am running out of ideas of things to cook. Do any of you have some great vegetarian recipes you would like to share with me?

I Will Make Love My Greatest Weapon

2010-02-13T00:08:00.000-08:00

I will make love my greatest weapon

and none on who I call,

can defend against its force.

My love will melt all hearts

liken to the sun

whose rays soften the coldest day.

- Og Mandino

Beginning Tomorrow: Dr. James Hughes

2010-02-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

This past summer, I was privileged to be at a meeting where Dr. Hughes was the guest speaker. Not only is he an incredible speaker but I noticed there was not a generational gap. Teens, senior citizens, young moms, and the middle aged all responded with equal interest. Dr. Hughes takes us to "where the rubber meets the road" and deals with issues we all face, have faced, or know someone who is is dealing with such issues. I am looking forward to the next three nights.

Conscience

2010-02-08T22:37:00.000-08:00

Conscience is the root of all true courage;

if a man would be brave

let him obey his conscience.

- James Freeman Clarke

What Are You?

2010-02-06T18:19:00.000-08:00

What a man is

contributes much more to his happiness than what he has,

or how he is regarded by others.

- Arthur Schopenhauer

The Teenager

2010-02-02T09:35:00.000-08:00

Time to open gifts. ~~smile~~
After-shave & cologne?!?!?
A razor!!!

Making a wish.

He's a happy teen.

Each birthday of Blake's, has been celebrated at home and I cooked his favorite meal. That "favorite" meal was always spaghetti until last year when he requested mom's homemade burritos. Then, this year, he decided he wanted to celebrate at "Famous Dave's Barbeque." So, to barbeque we went. Grandpa and Grandma Allard bought him an electric razor. If only you could have seen the look on Blake's face when he opened that gift! We all had a great laugh. Blake has been telling us he will soon need to shave because he is getting "fuzz" on his face. Even so, I think the razor was a big surprise. His face was half excited and half embarrassed. LOL Adding to the celebration was having "Papa" and "Grandma" White here from Arizona. After my dad passed away, Blake told my dad's best friend, Sam White, he would have to take his grandpa's place. The White's are special people to our family. Once again, I have a teenager in my house. He is my sweetheart and I'm glad he had a great birthday.

Haiti Relief

2010-01-30T01:12:00.000-08:00

Bag of Supplies
Bryn receiving Sis. Angie's supply bag.

Blake and Bryn receiving and stacking the supply bags.

Part of the load in Bro. Douglas' truck.

Our church wanted to help the victims of the earthquake in Haiti and we teamed with Compassion Services International to make bags of supplies for distribution to those in need. The response was overwhelming and I am so thankful to all who participated. Douglas and Kandas Johnson volunteered to pay the hundreds of dollars for shipping and I want to add my heartfelt thanks to their generosity. When such a huge disaster strikes, one can feel compelled to help but think there isn't much they could do. Remember this - when your contribution whether large or small is combined with hundreds of other donations, it becomes great. It reminds me of a song that says, "...little is much, when God is in it, labor not for wealth or fame..." I hope our meager efforts bring hope and help to those our bags of supplies reach.

A Kiss

2010-01-27T00:09:00.000-08:00

Bryn: Kiss? Blake: NO!!!
Bryn: Too late! Blake: Yuck!!!
Awwww...but they really do love each other.

What? Already A Teenager???

2010-01-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

Baby Blake
Blake found this snapshot in one of his photo albums
and he took it out, bought a frame,
and gave it to me for Christmas.
Mr. Mischievous

Laughing

Sweet

Thinking

Playing

Cute

Charming

Tired

Posing

Handsome

Teasing

Yes, I think there is a hint of fuzz on his upper lip.

"Mommy, I think by my birthday I am going to need to shave because I am starting to get hair above my lip," Blake told me much to my disbelief. What happened to my baby?!? Surely it was just yesterday that he was a baby in my arms. Where has the time gone??? Well, time has certainly flown.

When he was first born, he would instantly wake up and scream until a bottle was in his mouth. His dad would rush to get a bottle while I changed his diaper. Once fed, he would again sleep peacefully in his crib. At just three or four years old, he would awaken before everyone else, make his way to the kitchen, and find something to eat. He has always had an appetite!

It has been four years since I had a teenager in the house and now my baby boy is stepping into the teen bracket. This has been an interesting year watching him vacillate between boy and young man. He is beginning to eat more "grown up" meals with v-e-g-e-t-a-b-l-e-s, he no longer orders from the kids menu at restaurants, and I think he has grown several inches because I now have to look up to him. He still loves to learn, loves soccer, and, I think, his favorite thing is to still have someone sit and talk with him. Smart, curious, ornery, loyal, tender-hearted, thoughtful, independent, self-sufficient, and fun are just a few words that describe him. One thing is certain, he is still my "Good Looking" sweetheart. He voluntarily kisses me goodbye each morning on his way to school, and will holler, "I love you," when he gets out of the car at school. He has not reached "that stage" where he is embarrassed to "love his mom," and I hope he never does. He stole my heart the minute he was born and no matter how big he gets, he will always be my baby boy.

Happy 13th Birthday, Blake!!!

What Lies Within You?

2010-01-24T00:01:00.000-08:00

What lies behind us

and what lies before us

are tiny matters

compared to what lies within us.

- William Morrow

Gloriously Conquer

2010-01-22T00:02:00.000-08:00

Some day, in years to come, you will be wrestling with the great temptation, or trembling under the great sorrow of your life. But the real struggle is here, now, in these quiet weeks. Now it is being decided whether, in the day of your supreme sorrow or temptation, you shall miserably fail or gloriously conquer. Character cannot be made except by a steady, long continued process.
- Phillips Brooks

Gloriously conquer because character counts.

Worth It

2010-01-17T00:02:00.000-08:00

There are no shortcuts to any place worth going.

- Beverly Sills

So, go ahead, persevere, and enjoy

because the journey will be worth it.

A Time to Laugh, A Time to Cry

2010-01-13T00:13:00.000-08:00

Only in California will you find Palm Trees

where the valley floor and the foothills collide.

The beautiful, green farmland of the San Joaquin Valley

surrounded by the gorgeous Sierra Nevada Mountains.

The beautiful foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains

There were a few sprinkles of rain as we drove towards the cemetery.

Florance & Charles (seated, right side of picture, facing camera)

This pic was taken at our annual senior luncheon last year.

Yesterday, was a beautiful day in the San Joaquin Valley. From the valley floor, the Sierra Nevada Mountains could be clearly seen and the foothills were a lush green. It was a day to enjoy and yet a day to mourn. I was mesmerized with the view as we drove to a nearby town to perform the funeral of Sis. Florance's husband, Charles. This world and life work together like hand-in-glove and beauty is given to us even on dark, cloudy days. The last two years of Charles life were clouded by disease but precious memories pour sunshine through the clouds. Rest in peace, Charles.

My Girl, Talking About My Girl

2010-01-11T00:56:00.000-08:00

My heart melts everytime I look into those beautiful eyes.

In Heaven Now...

2010-01-06T01:56:00.000-08:00

My dear friend, and fellow blogger, has now passed and entered the land where there will be no more sickness or pain. She valiantly fought cancer and was even nicknamed the "Iron Lady" by her family and hospice nurses. I want to thank all of you who prayed for Janiver Brown, read her blog and left her encouraging comments. Her homegoing service will be this Saturday. Please continue to pray for her husband, children, family and the congregation of which she was the first lady.

Rest in peace, dear Janiver, until we meet again.

Bryn's Hairdo

2010-01-03T00:21:00.000-08:00

Bryn and Karry

The Saturday and Sunday following Christmas, Brian and I were both sick apparently with a flu virus. We pushed ourselves to go to Sunday morning service and, afterwards, my friend Karry offered to take Bryn and Blake with her family for the afternoon so Brian and I could rest. Now isn't that a good friend?!?!? :) Of course, Bryn wanted to have her hair fixed like Karry's girls. Karry fixed Bryn's hair and it was so cute. However, the afternoon had taken its toll. In the Sunday evening service, Bryn conked out - - - but her hair held up.

I'll Be Home For Christmas

2010-01-02T15:18:00.000-08:00

Bryce singing at our Annual Christmas Concert.

The Days Flew By...

2009-12-30T01:02:00.000-08:00

It was my intention to post all the happenings of Christmas but I was so caught up in the actions, my blog was forgotten. OOPS! My bad! Maybe, I'll find time in the next few days to post a few more pics. In the meantime, Bryn and Blake are playing Ninja's and Sparkles is enjoying her new blanket, most especially, when she gets to cuddle with it in my chair.

Pics from Christmas Sunday

2009-12-22T11:36:00.001-08:00

Many years ago, my father started a tradition of making Christmas sacks for everyone who attended the Christmas Service. An apple and an orange were the first items selected, then candy canes, and Christmas candy. The above pictured oranges were donated by Paramont Farms. Can you smell them? :)
Helping prepare the sacks, was Brian, Bryn, Blake, and Zack Ojeda. The kids love to help because they know they will always get some of the leftover candy. :)
The base of the sack begins with a red, delicious apple and orange. Then, we add a package of CornNuts, a Rice Krispy, Tootsie sucker, Candy Cane, and mixed hard candies.
Bryn and her friend Daria singing solo parts on "Jesus, Oh What a Wonderful Child" with the KIDZ Choir. Those kids rocked the house.

The little girl on the left is a new girl who comes to church on our Sunday School bus. She loved singing with the choir and was not a bit shy to sing out. Love those kids.

Apostolic Gospel Church of Delano KIDZ Choir. These kids surprise me sometimes with the songs they sing and how well they perform.

Bryn wanted to sing for the Christmas Concert and wanted me to help her. "What Did You Say Was the Baby's Name?" Bryn LOVES to sing.

Charlene Wilson singing, "New Kid in Town."

Coy Anders performing an instrumental on his trumpet. "Angels We Have Heard on High."

Kelving Furgerson singing, "Greatest Story Ever Told"

Ernie Aguilar playing and singing, "White Christmas."

This is just a few of the 20 something songs performed at our Annual Christmas Concert. It was a great night. (The children performed at the am service.) I hope all of you are having a great Christmas season - the most wonderful time of year.

The Friendly Squirrel

2009-12-18T23:18:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, while entering a business, Bryn saw this little squirrel romping in the landscape and so we paused to watch it. The little critter looked up at us and came straight towards us, paused and raised up on his hind legs as if to say, "Hi," or "Do you have any snacks?" Bryn was so happy I captured his picture. All God's creatures, great or small, are such a wonder.

Another Brag Moment

2009-12-15T19:01:00.000-08:00

Bryn acting
Bryn and castmates singing
The Wildcats Basketball Team

Wildcat Cheerleaders

Bryn and her 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Lancaster

Choreographer, Ms. Arciaga and Bryn

Ms. Campos, play director, and Bryn

Bryn and her best friend Shailynn

Can you handle another brag moment? Bryn is a GATE student and involved her school choir, Chess Club, and Theatre and Arts. Last week, a cast of 40, third through fifth grade students, put on four shows of an hour and half production, "High School Musical." Bryn was one of the Thespians (Susan) and did a great job. Kudos to the department for a job well done.

You Go, Girl!!!

2009-12-14T23:32:00.000-08:00

There is in every true woman's heart a spark of heavenly fire,

which lies dormant in the broad daylight of prosperity;

but which kindles up,

and beams and blazes in the dark hour of adversity.

- Washington Irving

There's just something about adversity or that feeling of "can't," that makes a woman say, "I can." Makes me wanna say, "You go, gurl."

Bound

2009-12-09T00:08:00.000-08:00

I am not bound to win,

but I am bound to be true.

I am not bound to succeed,

but I am bound to live by the light that I have.

I must stand with anybody that stands right,

stand with him while he is right,

and part with him when he goes wrong.

- Abraham Lincoln

Hmmm.....sounds like President Lincoln read his Bible.

Brian and Jana's Christmas Salad

2009-12-07T00:09:00.000-08:00

Saturday night was our Christmas banquet. The menu was shredded beef, green beans, rice pilaf, salad, roll, sweet tea, and dessert from The Cheescake Factory. Brian and I made the salad this year. It is a recipe we created a couple years ago and has been a huge "hit" with our church family. I thought I would share our secret since it is such a simple salad yet delicious.

Ingredients: spring salad mix, green salad mix, Sesame dressing (from Costco), fresh blueberries, fresh strawberries, fresh red, seedless grapes, dried cranberries, apples, candied or glazed walnuts. (In the summer, add tangerines.)

At Costco, we purchase the large bags of salad mix that has iceberg, purple cabbage and carrots, and the boxes of spring salad mix. Use a box of spring salad mix for every two bags of the other salad mix and blend all the greens. Then add the blueberries, sliced strawberries, halved grapes, dried cranberries, chopped apples, and candied walnuts. Once you have all of this mixed, add the Sesame dressing and toss the salad well.

(If you want to make salad for 200 people, use 8 bags of the regular salad mix, 4 boxes of spring salad mix, three bottles of Sesame dressing, three pounds of fresh blueberries, three pounds of red seedless grapes, two pounds of strawberries, approximately four pounds of dried cranberries, 4 chopped red delicious apples, 3-4 pounds of glazed walnuts.)

A "Good Lookin'"Brag Moment

2009-12-05T00:04:00.000-08:00

Pictured above, is Blake with his principal, Jennifer Townson. On Wednesday of this week, we were invited to a luncheon where Blake was honored. Blake is now in 7th grade and was chosen as "Student of the Trimester" to receive the "Academic Excellence Award." He is in the top 1% of his grade. I am so proud of him! One of his teachers spoke of Blake's enthusiasm to learn and said many kind things about him. Blake is now taller than me and, when I looked at the above picture, I couldn't help but wonder where my little boy has gone?!?! Fortunately, he is just growing as he should and he has not yet reached a stage where he is too proud to hug his mommy. That's my "Good Lookin'."

Regrets?

2009-12-03T00:03:00.000-08:00

If I had my life to live over again,

I would have made a rule

to read some poetry

and listen to some music

at least once a week.

- Charles Darwin

Regret - a sense of loss, disappointment, dissatisfaction. Most people probably have some regrets in their life, but I pray yours are few.

Merry Christmas!!!

2009-12-01T00:06:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Twas the month before Christmas

When all through our land,

Not a Christian was praying

Nor taking a stand.

See the PC Police had taken away,

The reason for Christmas - no one could say.

The children were told by their schools not to sing,

About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.

It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say

December 25th is just a 'Holiday'.

Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit

Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!

CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod

Something was changing, something quite odd!

Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa

In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.

As Targets were hanging their trees upside down

At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.

At K-Mart and Staples and Penny 's and Sears

You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.

Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty

Are words that were used to intimidate me.

Now Obama, Now Biden, Now Sharpton, and Jackson

On Boxer, on Rather, on Ried, and Pelosi!

At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter

To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.

And we spoke not a word, as they took away our faith

Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace

The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded

The reason for the season, stopped before it started.

So as you celebrate 'Winter Break' under your 'Dream Tree'

Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.

Choose your words carefully, choose what you say

Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS ,not Happy Holiday!

Courage

2009-11-28T00:02:00.000-08:00

Courage

is what it takes to stand up and speak;

courage

is also what it takes to sit down and listen.

- Sir Winston Churchill

Take courage.

Make the World A Better Place

2009-11-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

No man or woman

of the humblest sort

can really be strong,

gentle and good,

without the world being better for it,

without somebody being helped

and comforted

by the very existence

of that goodness.

- Phillips Brooks

XM Radio - WARNING!!!

2009-11-24T00:02:00.000-08:00

I am SOOOO disgusted with XM Radio. We have XM radio in our home and there are several channels we enjoy. My husband loves the southern gospel station, I like FOX News, intsrumental jazz, and at the holiday time we frequently play #23 easy listening holiday music in the background. Today I heard "The Thanksgiving Song" by Adam Sandler and I immediately looked up the XM Satellite website and filed a complaint. If you enjoy holiday music on XM 23, be careful because they are currently playing this song that is not for Christians and most especially little ears. My husband has also filed a complaint.

Bakersfield/Delano Tea Party

2009-11-21T23:47:00.001-08:00

Chris Cassone, recording artist

Kevin Jackson, author, talk show host, columnist
Jana Allard, local girl singing for Jesus :)

Ed Valov and me

Inga Barks, talk show host and me

Me and former senator Phil Wyman

(He is running for senator again in 2010)

Last evening, I was honored to sing at the Patriot Political Tea Party. It was quite an interesting evening! There were special speakers from across the nation. A few were, Kevin Blackford, Bill Lind, talk show host Inga Barks, talk show host Jim Franklin, author Kevin Jackson, Ken Mettler, Mario Santoyo, Judy Holloway, and more. Chris Cassone was a featured artist who sang his original song, "Taking Our Country Back" (which he recently performed at the mall in Washington, D.C. before an audience of nearly 2 million) and a Christian rock band called Set In Stone. This event was hosted and organized by John Pandol of Pandol and Sons and Ed Valov owner of Irrigation Concepts. The hot topic was getting water turned on in the Central Valley of California. It is a shame that politicians value a two inch fish more than human life! Farmers and farm workers came together to fight the politics that are causing their jobs to disappear. It was a great night highlighted by visiting with high school friends that I have not seen in years.

Respect

2009-11-20T00:09:00.000-08:00

Seek respect mainly from thyself,

for it comes first from within.

- Steven H. Coogler

Now, isn't that a novel idea? Let respect first come from within! Hopefully, you are catching my sarcasm. There have been many times when someone was demanding respect and I heard another respond with, "Respect is earned." If you desire respect, let respect ooze from you. Guaranteed you will then earn respect.

Congratulations, Chaplain Allard

2009-11-17T23:16:00.001-08:00

Delano Chief of Police
Taking his oath
Blake pinning on the badge

Blake feeling quite proud with his dad

Chief DeRossia & Jillian Palacpac (Bryce's childhood sweetheart)

Chief DeRossia and Brian

(notice our city hall still proudly displays,

In God We Trust)

For several years, Brian has been a chaplain for the Kern County Sheriff Department. On Monday, Brian was also sworn in as a chaplain for the Delano Police. We allowed Bryn and Blake to go with us for the ceremony (they were an hour late to school) and Blake had the honor of pinning on his dad's new badge. One thing is certain, Brian is a giving person and is willing to help not only the church organization with which he is affiliated, his local assembly, but also his community. Part of his duties include notifying family of a death, helping small children who are taken into protective services, and more. Brian always has his gear bag stocked with a few plush animals he can give children who are involved in tragic circumstances. I'm proud of my dear husband.

Congrats, Brian!

Also, we were surprised to see Jillian Palacpac. She went to elementary school with Bryce and she was his "sweetheart" for many years. Jillian was sworn in and is now starting her new job of taking calls and working with dispatch. Congrats to Jill.

Man Up - Be Responsible

2009-11-15T14:29:00.000-08:00

It is easy to dodge our responsibilities,

but we cannot dodge the consequences

of dodging our responsibilities.

- unknown

Ol Fashioned Manners

2009-11-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

Thoughtfulness for others,

generosity, modesty and self-respect,

are the qualities which make

a real gentleman or lady.

- Thomas H. Huxley

It seems the above mentioned qualities are now considered "old-fashioned" and disrespect, selfishness, and immodesty has become the "norm." In spite of the new "norm", impeccable manners will quickly attract attention and great admiration. I have made it a point to use manners with my children from the time they were babies. If I step in front of them, I say, "Excuse me." By making a habit to display good manners, I found my first child using the same mannerly expression at just 18 months old. It may strike you funny, but I will even use manners when I step past my little doggie. What will it take to bring a revival of courtesy? Manners is a parental responsibility and it is never too early to start using them.

Harvest Party '09

2009-11-13T00:05:00.000-08:00

Finally, I uploaded my pics and thought I would share a few with you. Go ahead and laugh. It's good for you. LOL

The Nerd - Bryn
Pink Poodle - Devanae

Chinese Girl - Alize

Winners of the Apple Bobbing Contest

Little Minnie Mouse and Cambria

Dr. Katelyn, the local veterinarian

This should remain, "Guess who?"

David Beckham aka Blake

The perfect Irish Nerd - Bryn

Right Apologies = Right Actions

2009-11-11T00:08:00.000-08:00

Right actions for the future

are the best apologies

for wrong ones in the past.

- Tyron Edwards

There is not much as insulting as a hypocritical apology. You know, the ones that are seemingly coerced words. We have often heard, "Actions speak louder than words." Character counts so good words should become good actions.

Please Pray for My Friend...

2009-11-10T14:46:00.000-08:00

...Janiver Brown

Prayers for her husband and family are appreciated, too.

What Did Your Child Say?

2009-11-10T00:01:00.000-08:00

There are many ways to measure success;

not the least of which is the way

your child describes you when talking to a friend.

Many years ago, an elder minister would often say, "If you want to know what your congregation thinks about you, just talk to their kids." Young children radiate innocence and honesty. This can provoke us, as adults, to a time of searching our souls. Thank God for our children and reminding us of what we should yet become if we are to find true success.

Face Reality

2009-11-09T00:33:00.000-08:00

We can't always live by feelings alone,

sometimes we need to live by reality.

- borrowed from Tena Valente

Feelings can mask truth. Follow truth.

Adversity: Trial of Principle

2009-11-07T00:21:00.000-08:00

Adversity is the trial of principle.

Without it, a man hardly knows whether he is honest or not.

- Henry Fielding

Isn't it amazing how adversity brings out true character? Throughout my years of being involved with pastoral ministry, I have seen the good and the bad. When calamity strikes, I have witnessed a weak person suddenly possess resolute strength and, yet, another give in to dishonesty and a loss of integrity. The next time adversity comes through your door, be determined to prove your character is impeccable.

Psalm 25:21 "Let integrity and uprightness preserve me." (NKJV)

As A Little Child

2009-11-05T00:02:00.000-08:00

"...Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven." - Matthew 18:3

The above picture is of a darling little boy named Malachi. I thought it was so cute and asked his auntie if I could borrow it. The innocence and sincerity of a child is so precious. I wonder, if we took the above scripture to heart and allowed our spirit to become as a child, how much easier life would become?

Huh? Work It Out

2009-11-03T00:01:00.000-08:00

Do not falter or shrink;

but just think out your work,

and just work out your think.

- Nixon Waterman

Self Centered or Christ Centered

2009-11-02T00:04:00.000-08:00

Self-centered people are easily offended. They find ways to get upset over the simplest and silliest things. Then, they proceed down that well-traveled road of discouragement, depression, and defeat. The reason? They are totally consumed with self! My advise is very simple. Discover the power of a "Christ Centered Life." It is lasting, fulfilling, and you'll never be the same again. - unknown