Regrets?

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!!!

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

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

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!!!

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

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

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

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

It is easy to dodge our responsibilities,

but we cannot dodge the consequences

of dodging our responsibilities.

- unknown

Ol Fashioned Manners

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

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

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...

...Janiver Brown

Prayers for her husband and family are appreciated, too.

What Did Your Child Say?

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

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

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

"...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

Do not falter or shrink;

but just think out your work,

and just work out your think.

- Nixon Waterman

Self Centered or Christ Centered

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

Happy Halloween!

First, before you condemn me for saying, "Happy Halloween," hear my opinion of this day. It stems from Genesis 1:1. "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth..." He also created night and day, man and woman, tears and laughter. I have heard people condemn God saying, "If He was such a good, loving God, why are there murderers and rapist?" Well, God did not create a murderer or a rapist. He gave man and woman the freedom to choose. Eve chose to partake of a tree she knew was not for her consumption. Likewise, God created day and night but it was humanity that chose to pervert days by celebrating paganism. As for me, I have not chosen to celebrate a day that has been perverted by evildoers. Rather, I have chosen to celebrate the day because it is the day the Lord hath made. So, if my little girl dresses up like Sarah Palin, knocks on grandma's door and gets free candy, I don't think we have perverted the day. Since we also agree with the scripture that instructs us to shun the appearance of evil, I will not allow my child to represent a character that stems from paganism, the occult, sorcery or witchcraft. I know my opinion is controversial but, this is my story and I'm sticking to it. :)

Tell Someone! Get Help!

Earlier this month, a young, 27 year old man violently stabbed his 20 year old girlfriend to death. This tragedy is heartbreaking but it personally brings me pain. You see, the young man was raised in our church as a child. His mother and father divorced when he was very young and the mother took the children and moved several hours away. Answers will never be sufficient and, in reality, it is as if there were two deaths. One family is heartbroken for having their daughter taken away from them and another family is grieving with the knowledge their son/brother will soon be facing the death penalty. Apparently, the young man could not handle another time of rejection. My heart bleeds for both families and my mind wonders if the story would be different if the parents had not divorced and rededicated their lives to God. Of course, I will never know.

On a news website where this case was discussed, there was a discussion concerning risks and also signs to watch for. Please read below some of these risks and warning signs. If you know of anyone who could be at risk, share this information with them and encourage them to seek help.

The RISKS of a woman being killed by someone close to her is significantly increased when the abuser:
Has access to a gun
Has made previous threats or assaults with a gun.
Is extremely jealous
Engages in physical violence of increasing severity and/or frequency.
Abuses drugs or alcohol.

Here are some WARNING SIGNS of domestic violence perpetrators:
(These traits might not be apparent until the person is threatened by a loss of control, such as a breakup of the relationship.)
- Self-centered
- Obsessive
- Refusal to cope with rejection
- Quick and frequent swings from "rage" to "love”
- Constantly questioning or interrogating

Larry David's DISGUSTING BEHAVIOR

I find the below news link to be quite disturbing. In my opinion, Larry David deserves for his career to come to a screeching stop. There are lines that should not be crossed - - -even under the guise of comedy. I am thoroughly disgusted.

http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment...rinates-jesus/

QUOTE FROM ARTICLE: Comedian Larry David is under attack from critics who say he pushed the mocking of religion and Christian belief in miracles over the edge in the latest episode of his HBO series "Curb Your Enthusiasm," which the cable network defended as "playful." On the show's most recent installment, which aired Sunday, David urinates on a painting of Jesus Christ, causing a woman to believe the painting depicts Jesus crying.

Thank God for Friends

A friend is one who sees through you

and still enjoys the view.

- Wilma Askinas

Happy 8th Birthday, Bryn!

2 weeks old with Grandma Wilson
2 years old at Pismo Beach
3 years old
4 years old

5th Birthday

6th Birdthday

7th Birthday eating special dinner fixed by Daddy

8th Birthday

My dear little princess, you are growing up too fast. It seems like just yesterday, you were mommy's real, living baby doll. Now, you are my buddy, my little partner, my angel. I love to hear you sing and laugh. One of my favorite things, is when we have enough to time to cuddle in the mornings and sing all of our songs we have made up. You have made mommy and daddy so happy and we love you 500 trillion, billion, oodles and gobs, to infinity and beyond.

Seek, Find, Love

To seek God is the greatest of all adventures.

To find God is the greatest human achievement.

To fall in love with God is the greatest of all romances.

Introducing the New UPCI General Superintendent

St Louis - October 5, 2009. The United Pentecostal Church International announces the election of the Reverend Doctor David K. Bernard as General Superintendent of the 3-million-member church. The ministers of the organization selected Reverend Bernard at their 85th annual General Conference held in St Louis last week.

David K. Bernard is the founder and senior pastor of New Life Church in Austin, Texas. He is also District Superintendent of the South Texas District of the United Pentecostal Church International and president of Urshan Graduate School of Theology, located in St Louis. He has earned a doctor of jurisprudence with honors from the University of Texas, a master of theology from the University of South Africa, and a bachelor of arts in mathematical sciences and managerial studies with high honors from Rice University. He is currently a doctor of theology candidate in New Testament at the University of South Africa.

In addition to his ministry in Austin and throughout the United States, he has ministered in forty-five countries on six continents. Bernard is also a prolific writer who has written extensively on the Bible, theology, the history of doctrine, and Christian living. To date, he has written thirty books, with a circulation of about 750,000. He has been published in thirty-six languages. In addition to his books, he has produced debates and teaching series on CD and DVD and other preaching and teaching helps on CD-ROM.

David Bernard and his wife, Connie, have three children, Jonathan (married to Sara), Daniel, and Lindsey, and one grandchild, Elijah.

The United Pentecostal Church International, headquartered in St Louis, has 30,000 churches in 192 nations around the world and a ministerial membership of 27,000. It was formed in 1945 from the merger of two previously established organizations. The UPCI emerged out of the Pentecostal movement that began in Topeka, Kansas, in 1901. It traces its organizational roots to October 1916, when a large group of ministers withdrew from the Assemblies of God over the doctrinal issues of the oneness of God and water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ.
For the past eight years, Reverend Kenneth F. Haney has served as the General Superintendent of the church. Reverend Bernard is the 7th General Superintendent in the church's history.

Serenity Prayer (Revised)

I saw this on a friend's FB wall and couldn't resist sharing it with you. My friend, (a man) was out shopping with two women and posted he needed prayer. This was one of the responses given. Too cute!

God grant him the serenity to purchase the things he cannot afford,

the courage to charge the things he must,

and the wisdom not to point out the difference.

Industrious Indians

While on vacation and traveling through Indian country, we saw the above pictured vehicle. It gave us a good chuckle and, you have got to admit, it was industrious to repair the crunched van with adobe.

My Dear Blog, I Apologize...

My poor blog must feel so forsaken! UGH!!! I'm sorry, blog. I will try to better but life is hectic for me right now! Just wanted to share a couple pics I just took of Blake and Bryn. They are growing up too fast. The other day Blake said to me, "Mom, I'm getting orange fuzz on my face." LOL Much to my chagrin, I realize it won't be long until Blake will be shaving. Where has time gone?!?!?!?!?!?

On the Road Again...

Rob, Shara, Brian, and me
Shara & Rob
Slyvia Clemons, counselor and speaker for Points of Refuge class
Dr. Keith Sjostrand, POR instructor
Points of Refuge chairman, Ron Libby

Tracie Smith (right) and me

Shara McKee, Tracie Smith, Diane Green and me (far left)

The Luciano Pavarotti of the UPC, Hugh Rosem and me

This poor blog must feel sadly forsaken! Life has been very busy but I have not left my blog high and dry. My internet access has been limited while traveling. Brian and I left in our RV last Saturday to attend the United Pentecostal Church International General Conference held in St. Louis, Missouri. The road trip was fun in spite of the thermostat going out on our rig. That caused us to spend an extra day in Albuquerque, New Mexico where the problem was corrected. We arrived in St. Louis Tuesday evening and our good friends, Rob and Shara McKee, took us to dinner to celebrate our anniversary and the following day brought me a Gooey Butter Cake for my birthday. On Wednesday, Brian and I attended a class for our new endeavor as care givers for Points of Refuge. (http://www.pointsofrefuge.org/) The class featured three licensed counselors adding their expertise to the program. Wednesday night, we attended the musical/drama "One to Be Won." It featured a 300 voice choir, a large orchestra and a cast of great actors. Afterwards, I got to meet fellow blogger Tracie Smith. We all went out and had a great time visiting, laughing and eating. (Eating: what Pentecostals do best) This morning, I browsed the exhibit hall while Brian attended the ministers business session. Around noon, we pulled our RV out of its space and headed towards Branson. We hope to see the Noah production tonight. Brian and I are enjoying our time together and the time we were able to spend with our good friends.