Southern & Loving It!

Ok, I'm a Southern girl to the core! What does that mean to you Northern and Western friends? Well I love Southern hospitality, care, foods, and friends. There is nothing like enjoying a ice cold glass of Strawberry Lemonade on a hot day. Also there is nothing like enjoying a delish cupcake.

Our last day in Denver we had the convertible open and were enjoying driving around town on a nice breezy afternoon. We were in search of Cherry Creek Shopping District which to all my fellow Houstonians reminded me of Rice Village except there is also a indoor mall in the district. I was looking down when all of a sudden Kent stops abruptly. He cheerfully exclaimed, "Surprise!"....(another thing Southern girls love...surprises!) I noticed in the little shopping center was a cute cupcake shop. We left the top open on the car and briskly walked into the cutest lil shop! Each of us got a cupcake and a bottle of water. I promised the owner I would give her some accolades on my blog. If you are ever in the area please do stop by. You will be so glad you did.

Today I got to the office and there was the cutest platter of cupcakes with four yummy cupcakes. Yes, being the Southern girl that I am I enjoyed one for breakfast. I've already had another for snack. Thank you Carrie Blair for the sweet surprise. I love sweets, surprises, and Carrie!!!!! What a winning combination with me! You can check out my Charming Hospitality Blog for the recipes. I'm not sure if I like the frosting or the cupcake best!

Southern girls love parties and giving gifts. I'm glad I have a church full of girls who are either Southern or I'm transforming them!!!! Actually they far surpass me in their Southern Charm. I'm glad my girls are Southern girls, too! Today I met Redonia for a lil business venture. I looked at her and thought how cute...she is wearing a cute lil outfit with the cutest sandals. They look like what this Southern Belle wore in the 70's! When I returned to the office there sat Kent eating a popsicle (another Southern treat) brought to him as a surprise from Calah.

Aahhhh today has been a beautiful day...a day for cleaning around the church, singing and humming, and enjoying a lil Southern life.....The deep South is full of sunshine! Today I even wore a VERY bright yellow top!!!! I guess I just woke up feeling a lil southern....

Blogging friends I hope the Southern sunshine is shining your way.....

I LOVE my FaMiLy!!!

Ok, I didn't know what to call this post so let me just call it "I Love my Family". Really, I do! Our little family that lives together was reunited today. I was glad when I received the Blackberry Messenger from Donie saying "I'm here, where are you" Of course she was still taxing to the airport and we weren't quite there. When we pulled up to passenger pickup there she was looking tired. I knew she would be. In fact I told Sean I was sure he was sending her home tired and grouchy. Tired she is but grouchy hasn't appeared YET!

We stopped by the office on our way home. Trent has the flu and was home. Her first stop was to see her Bubby. When Calah got home from the office I think Redonia was laying across Trent's bed talking. I'm sure he had lots of questions and she had lots of 1/2 answers! lol

As soon as we got home she was READY to see the Bishop. He was soooooooo ready to see her, too! Following is a candid shot of the first hug. They played chase in the yard for a few minutes. He is not going to let Redonia out of his site.



Redonia came in and began working immediately. She has the potential of landing a contract for 40 hrs of work per week. She will meet tomorrow to see if she's qualified and if it is something she will want to add to her business schedule. I solicit your prayers in this matter. Redonia owns a graphics and photography business and this would be a great asset to her in many ways. If it works out I'll share a little more about it later. For now prayers, please!

Tonight I will have the privilege of teaching Stand Student Ministries at the Studio. Wow I'm quite honored! Trent is still unable to be there and he called and asked me to be his guest speaker. I'm thinking I will not be as fun as Trent but I will have fun!!!

Calah has had the joy of tending to Trent this week. He is definitely a 'man' and you know girls that means whiney when they are sick. I told Calah I was so glad that he is ALLLL hers! I did mean all, too...like all for her to tend to with the flu. Yesterday she took him to the doctor. She took him to someplace different than he has always gone. He is sick and fussed about everything...the floors weren't clean enough, the doctor wasn't as professional as he is used to, etc. She was able to do the little clinic without appointment and saved them a few dollars, too. I was proud of her but Mr. T gets grumpy when he's sick. So please keep Calah in your prayers, too! lol Shes awesome! Redonia said when she came in from the office today she felt his head and because his fever had broke she said, "Ok, Trent, you don't have fever so you aren't sick. Get up so I can wash the sheets!" HA HA...I bet he got right up and didn't even complain. Yesterday Calah was busy bleaching EVERYTHING. She's determined she isn't going to get the flu.

Oh, I ALMOST forgot....I asked you to pray about Kent's blood sugar...drum roll........He is able to not take the diabetic meds anymore!!!!! Yes, thank You, Jesus! Kent has been prayed for so many times. God answered our prayer. His cholestrol was higher than its been and the doctor was concerned. Kent had stopped taking the meds due to some of the side affects. He had to start that back but praise the Lord no more Actos!!!! Kent told me today he is believing the cholestrol med will go, too.

I hope each of you are enjoying a blessed week!!!!!

Rain...mud puddles.....life....

Rain is so necessary but I hate the mud puddles! Our front yard looks like a lake. Ike didn't cause the yard to flood like today's rain storm. Speaking of the natural rain causing flooding so does the spiritual rain. The flooding is pretty cool...everything just floats along pretty good but those mud puddles aren't so much fun!

Today has been MONDAY in every sense of the word. I KNOW you pastor's wives can relate. Harvest, yes! Blessings, yes! Mud puddles, yes!!! When we don't make it to the office until 10 AM you know it's been one of THOSE mornings.

I'm thankful for the natural rain this evening. I rushed in and before even sitting down I swept the floors, straightened everything up, and changed the sheets. Then I lit several candles, turned on some relaxing music, reclined my feet and up hopped Mr. Bishop to pout beside me. The other house occupant (I won't call any names) has been snoring since before 7 pm in his chair. I'm thinking sleep will leave him shortly and he will mess up a good night's rest. I've enjoyed catching up on some Bible reading and working on a few CARE projects.

Redonia is STILL gone. We miss her so much. Last night I had this Mother worry feeling for her. This morning she called to tell me she has had a headache almost the entire time she's been in Arkansas. Of course she left her migraine prescription meds here. She did take some over the counter meds and is better this evening. Ugghhh I hate that she struggles with headaches. Of course it's something she has dealt with since she was only 2. No big deal to her! She's a TOUGH trooper.

Ok...let me share a pic of a not so tough trooper with you....He's really really pitiful since Redonia's gone. We took him to visit Madeline this afternoon. When Madeline opened the door he got soooooo excited. It was so cute watching him run and play. Madeline cuddled him and even Mallorie played with him. We brought him home and the first place he went was Redonia's room. Poor little puppy! Isn't he adorable though? This is the Bishop with Mallorie's pacifier....They share the same birthday. I think they need to share their 1 year old birthday party, too!

Lonely/Happy

Wow what a LONELY house! Redonia flew out today to Little Rock. Although she is our quiet child we still definitely know she is here. We will miss her shower running bright and early every morning then stomp stomp stomp down the hall. We will miss the bobby pins or ponytail holder on the coffee table where she unwinds her hair at night. I'll miss the dining room chair being left out. I'll miss seeing a plate in the sink. I'll miss seing a garment whatever it maybe on the ironing board in the laundry room. I'll miss seeing something on the stairs for her to take upstairs. I'll miss her calling to see how long to cook or warm something up for lunch. In the morning I'll miss her asking if whatever she decides to wear looks right....I will JUST miss her! She is going to be gone until Wednesday. I understand Sean's Mom or Grandma has decided she needs to stay another week but I don't think so!

Poor Bishop is pouting because Redonia is gone. While she packed he couldn't stay out of her suitcase. He never wants me but for some reason tonight he will not budge from my chair. He is keeping his eyes closed and one paw over his eyes. We called Redonia for her to talk to him. Unfortunately it made matters worse. He ran to his bed and started whinning.

Although our home is lonely tonight we had a WONDERFUL time @ REJOICE (prayer service). Trent leads REJOICE and tonight he did an incredible job. After we prayed he arranged for some testimonials. Taylor Martin one of our youth gave an outstanding testimony of how HYC impacted his life. Matt Newton shared how he has been griped to not be a hearer only but a doer of the Word. He also shared how he never wants to be deceived against truth. Chris Ferguson spoke about the harvest we are experiencing. He invited a couple of our new converts to share their testimony. WOW WOW WOW WOW! A couple walked up to share they thanked Pastor and the church for loving them and CARING for them. The guy (protecting his identity) shared how he has been homeless for 10 years and had lost faith to ever be anything different but God is putting his life together. Last week he got a job making $14 per hr. This week he purchased a nice truck. Now they are saving to get in a house or apartment. They should reach their goal in a couple of weeks. He testified thru tears of joy. Our congregation wept tears of compassion.

I am happy about church this weekend. Kent's good friend, Bro. Gary Wheeler will be preaching tomorrow night. I KNOW both of our services will be blessed of the Lord.

Rejoice in the Lord always and again I say REJOICE!!!!!!

Blogging & Blessings Continue

Thanks for the MANY encouraging phone calls, texts and emails I have received today. I've been contacted by friends, family, pastor's and pastor's wives, and CUPC members. Blogging will continue as are blessings continuing.....

Kent has shoes with worn soles, etc. Yesterday I insisted that he purchase a new pair of shoes. He didn't want to spend the money on himself but we found some he liked in Denver and I insisted. I told him yesterday that God is going to provide a needed suit, too. Kent gives away to others continually. We delight ourselves in the Lord and God knows our needs and more specifically the scripture states He will give us the desires of our heart.

This morning Kent had a follow up appointment on his diabetic condition with his physcian. I enjoyed visiting in the office with one of our sweet ladies. We are believing Kent's labs are going to be fine, another desire of his heart. He has taken himself off some of his medications. He has prayed for a long time to be healed. He is working on himself and trusting God for the miracle. Please join us in believing for the miracle.

Upon arriving at the church office he found on his desk an envelope addressed to him and a check written to him in excess of $800. He immediately smiled and we realized that this will FAR more than purchase a suit for him. Last night we gave someone $28 to help with a need they had. Last week Kent had me write a check to put in the offering at District Conference. The next service they took a special offering and we complied with that offering even though we had given a sizeable offering the night before. I realize more and more that we simply can't out give God. The check Kent received will repay our special offerings above and beyond our normal tithes and offerings, the money we gave someone last night, Kent's suit and I'm sure the shoes, too.

Thank you, Lord, for your blessings. At the Texas District Conference I fondly referred to Nona Freeman's book Bug and Nona on the Go. I stated during our years of beginning the curch in Conroe we survived many dark days. What I didn't state was we had many days that we literally didn't know where our next meal would come from nor the fuel for our vehicle. We have always put God and the church first. When friends had nice homes we lived in homes not so nice. While friends drove nice cars we drove cars in need of repair. However, we didn't seem to notice what we didn't have. Rather we knew what God was doing in Conroe. Now 18 years later is seems as God has more than leveled the playing field. Yes, we live in a beautiful two story home. We drive a nice Lexus but we still definitely give porportionately to the work of God. Not only does CUPC participate in 100 percent of the District offerings but we participate personally by giving to CUPC and the District. Kent teaches the homeless members of CUPC to always try to at least give a coin in the offering. One by one they are beginning to testify to God blessing them. Some have gained housing while others are saving for housing. A few wks ago one of the homeless ladies stated she gave her last change in the offering but before leaving church that day someone had given her $2.00. She was so happy that she was leaving with more than she came with. Many times the blessings given to us have not been financial but rather health, protection, and friends. Regardless God's blessings always outweigh any offering or sacrifice we make.

Friends, I'm thankful for EVERY blessing in my life. I pray each of you enjoy a blessed weekend. God is not limited to Conroe. Regardless to your location - Pennsylvania, Florida, California, New York, Louisianna overseas or any other city or state God is a miracle worker....He has a blessing for you! Remember to GIVE this weekend....Luke 6:38Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

SIDE NOTE: I have Holy Ghost chills all over me! Kent is listening live to an Acts 29 Conference in Virginia. Bro. Morton Bustard is preaching thru an interpreter. Just as I copied Luke 6:38 and posted it to my blog Bro. Bustard quoted the very scripture. He is stating that God is going to sweep thru with revival and infillings of the Spirit....he is stating right now I BELIEVE anything can happen. You can touch Him right now. You can be healed right now! Oh my WOW!!!

I'm in agreement...I'm releasing my faith...for greater things will happen in Conroe than has previously been happening...greater things can happen in your life, too! The enemy has come to destroy but Jesus is going to raise up a church. Our families and churches are going to be set free! Just as God shut the mouths of the lions and they didn't devour Daniel so is the mouth of the enemy going to be shut so the work of God will prosper!!!! There is an abudant harvest. I believe the fields of evangelism are ready to harvest. They are white! We must stay in the Word, stay humble, stay busy in the kingdom, we must stay focused on God's will.....BLESSINGS are continuing.......

Proverbs 15:1

A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. KJV

I want to endeavor to give a SOFT answer this morning. I have spent some time praying. In fact this morning I sit here at my computer with tears. I pray the feeling in my spirit will be properly interpreted.

Comments left to this blog are emailed to me. Of course emails are delivered to my cell phone. Very early in fact at 4:32 AM I received notification of an email.

Wow, This is beyond pathetic. You are wasting money on cameras and trips while MANY people in your church are without... and then you get on here to brag about it? How disappointed God must be.

Fortunately I have a means for tracking visitors to the blog. This particular person according to my tracking method spent over an hour on the blog. I trust there was something the visitor enjoyed.

Anonymous, I appolgize that you feel this to be beyond pathetic. Remarks were left to the Miracle and Blessings post. Hopefully you read that the remaining portion of the funds helped to pay for our Faith Promise Offering. In case you aren't familiar Faith Promise is a monthly pledge given to support World Missions. Kent and I give $500 per month to this WORTHY cause. Additionally, Kent and I help people in our local church, our community, and minister's and wives in general. All of our support isn't financial some is simply being there to pray or encourage people in need. In fact our Denver trip was for that primary person. Kathy and Lafe McKinney are people we have only known for a brief few months. Lafe passed away with the dreaded disease of cancer. We went to support his grieving wife. Of course Kent was the officiant of Lafe's funeral.

Additionally, since you mentioned the people in our church let me quickly defend these people. Many times through the year they give our family gifts. CUPC knows we don't expect them. In fact Kent will not allow these gifts to even come to us from the church funds. I KNOW many churches purchase gifts for the pastor/family from the church funds and this is in no way negative towards those congregations or ministers. Kent asked that they use the church money better than giving us gifts. Hence, the members of the church collect money to purchase gifts for our family. They send us to restaurants that we do not go to and on trips to hotels that we would NEVER purchase on our own. Example: Marriot Times Square NYC and the Ritz Carlton concierge level New Orleans. Our people KNOW we would NEVER spend this money on ourselves. In fact we shop for discounts via the internet when we travel. On our recent Colorado trip we spent $35 for food one day and $40 the other. We do endeavor to be good stewards of the money God has entrusted us so we can bless the poor, feed the homeless, and support World Missions.

Obviously, Anonymous, you have a computer and spend money, too. Computers cost money, cameras cost money, as do most things we possess. I do endeavor to be careful in spending. In fact, the very post you responded to stated that. I actually prayed for a camera. Mandy, who inspired me, is a young pastor's wife. While Mandy is a DEFINITE encouragement to me I trust my blog in many ways can be a great encouragement to her. Of course this is just one person who frequents my blog that I want to encourage. Another is a new friend from Oklahoma. I have met her via blogging. In fact last week she called me for the first time on the phone. I look forward to the day I meet her. Another, is a new friend from Georgia. Her husband was recently elected to pastor a church. I don't know her but sent her flowers to congratulate her. I don't say these things to 'pin a flower' but rather attempt to say I have far more people who say I encourage them than people whom I frustrate. Today I choose to give a soft answer. Anonymous, I hope you will understand if not you may prefer to not visit my blog.

Blogging is two-fold for me. I am able to journal the happenings of my life and hopefully be of encouragement to my fellow minister's wife friends. At a recent District Conference I had the privilege of speaking for a brief few moments at the Minister's Wives Breakfast. I endeavored to encourage the ladies that while we are in a time of harvest it hasn't always been this way. I hope I encouraged the many ladies there with my brief remarks. I never want to brag nor do anything to hinder. Rather I realize God is not respector of persons. What He will do in Conroe for others.

I dare say the MAJORITY of members of CUPC are thankful that I was able to purchase a camera. Additionally, they are happy Kent and I were able to spend 50 something hours in Colorado for pleasure. We do work in our church office 5 days a week. Every Saturday with the exception of one Saturday per month we have prayer sessions at our church. Of course every Sunday we are at the church. You can see we are DEDICATED to working at CUPC. An ocassional off day just makes us even stronger to do what God has called us to do. Recreation incorporates the word recreate. Time away helps to recreate in us the much need energy and vision to come home renewed for more labor. It was at a getaway in January to a conference that we created within us the CARE concept that is blessing CUPC.

Today and every day I want to be a blessing to those I serve. Hopefully even this post will be a blessing to someone. Off to a great day of CARE and HARVEST....

Colorado - 2nd Day

Wow!!! What an incredible time together we've had! After all these years it is still so much fun making memories with the person I love MOST! Thanks, Babe, for making these 50 however many hours special. From the convertible to playing in the snow to romantic walks to the train and everything in between this short trip has been packed with fun and relaxation.

This morning began with Kent waking up around 4 AM! Yes, that is right....We are one hour behind Texas time and he's use to getting up and going to the YMCA around 5 AM. I slept off and on until 6 AM. We finally gave up trying to rest and packed up from the Colorado Springs Hilton Summerfield. We enjoyed breakfast at the hotel. Since we were too early for the Cog Railway we decided to drive back to the Garden of the Gods. We enjoyed a beautiful cool morning walk thru the park. We saw coyotes, an eagle, rabbits, and lots of birds. I could spend time there every day.
At one point Kent's phone rang and he refused to answer it. The atmosphere seemed entirely to serene to talk on the phone. Finally we decided we must leave or we wouldn't make the train ride up Pike's Peak.

I must admit I was not sure if the train ride would be worth the time and money. However, today we saw some of the most spectacular views. There was a lot of snow which hindered wildlife. On the slideshow notice one of the track pictures where the snow is very high and straight on one side. Workers have actually had to use dynomite to break thru the snow in order for the train to travel. At one point we had to ensure all windows on the train were closed. The snow was 1/2 way up the windows! We were able to get out and play in the snow. Of course I wasn't dressed for the snow but we still had fun. The weather was very mild. Kent put snow down my back and I about froze.

After enjoying Pike's Peak we spent a little bit in Manitou Springs. The highlight of this stop was a frozen custard sundae. I really wasn't in much of a shopping mood but we did walk the quaint streets. Our next stop with Old Colorado City. This is a very quaint little town, too. It wasn't as touristy and I enjoyed it more.

This afternoon we made our way back to Denver. Tonight we are staying at the Sheraton Downtown Denver Hotel. It's a nice hotel on the popular 16th Street Mall. The is a pedestrain mall about 1 mile long. Cars are not allowed to travel the street however city buses stop at every block every 90 seconds. The buses are free. There are many restaurants and shops. We had dinner at one of our favorites, Maggianos.

Sleeping late is the plan for in the morning. Pray it happens! We have a late afternoon flight home. We will find something to do before lunch and heading to the airport.

Although we have had a most enjoyable time we are ready to head home. Of course our being gone didn't hinder revival that is happening at CUPC. We have continued to get good reports.

Colorado - First Day

This morning Kent and I arrived at IAH early and enjoyed breakfast before boarding the plane for Denver. Once we had boarded and were ready to push back the pilot informed us that the plane had 4,000 extra lbs of gas. We had to wait for mechanics to unload some before departing. Ugghhhh...Kent and I didn't get seats together this made it more uncomfortable. Finally we were able to depart and I slept at least 1/2 of the trip. The other 1/2 of the trip I spent some much needed time cleaning up my laptop.

Upon arrival in Denver we saw beautiful snowcapped mountains! Aaaahhhhh!!! We had a rental car delay and was nervous we wouldn't make the memorial service for our dear saint, Layfette "Lafe" McKinney in time. We passed at least two police on the side of the road with their radar guns aimed to the ground! Whew!!! They apparently were taking brief breaks. Isn't God faithful? Does He have anything to do with keeping us from a ticket? We made the funeral with minutes to spare! Lafe was laid to rest in the Fort Logan National Cemetery. He had a full Veteran service. After which Kent spoke briefly to the family. The funeral was very small consisting of his loving wife, Kathy, and 4 other family members. Kent and I were thankful we were able to represent CUPC to their family members.

After leaving Fort Logan we traveled to Colorado Springs. We stopped at an outlet mall along the way. Kent was thankful we took in a whole mall for only $20! After checking in our hotel we rode thru the Garden of the Gods. What a beautiful rock/mountain nature area! I'm a SteinMart queen and we found one nearby, too.

Tomorrow we are going to ride the cog train to Pike's Peak. We are looking forward to a day of rest and relaxation. If all goes as planned we will travel back to Denver tomorrow afternoon.

We are missing REDONIA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Last week we were in Lufkin without her. When we get home she leaves for Arkansas for a few days. I told Kent at dinner that I'm going to be VERY sad the next few days without her. While we are gone we'll be busy and be ok but once we get home it's going to be TOOOO lonely. Trent and Calah may have to stay with us! Teasing that would be too much noise. Redonia is quiet.

Miracle & Blessings

Friday night @ Texas District Conference I had the privilege of visiting with a dear friend, Mandy Elms. Mandy is a beautiful lady who obviously serves the Lord passionately. I love watching her worship in church! During our visit Mandy fussed at me for not posting more pictures. My EXCUSE was that my camera is too big to carry around in my purse. I went on to explain that carpenters live in homes that are in need of repair, mechanics have cars needing repair, and I live with a photographer (Redonia) hence I don't get pictures. Mandy's suggestion was that I buy myself a small camera and keep in my purse.

I told Kent of Mandy's suggestion. Kent is a fixer and he said, "Tracie, go tomorrow and buy yourself a camera." Of course, I'm a mizer and told him this week isn't a good week. We paid taxes, I went to the doctor with my leg, and I made a $500 error in my checking account. Kent also paid our missions pledge. Of course the pledge came from our monthly bill $$ and that stressed me. I told Kent I was going to pray and ask God to send me a check from somewhere unexpectedly and I would buy a camera. That night I truly prayed and asked God to help me get a camera.

Sunday morning early Kent called me from the church. He said in a very excited voice, "Tracie, you are not going to believe this. Do you remember praying for God to send you a check? Well there's an envelope addressed to you and a check made out to you for $957. I want you to go today and buy yourself a new camera." Wow!!! Wow!!! We went after church and bought a camera. After the purchase I had more than enough to cover our missions, too. Honestly, this was the first month ever that I felt we just couldn't make our pledge but Kent paid it anyway.

Now for the funny part. I had the camera last night at church BUT there was entirely too much going on for me to slow down to take pictures. Deadra, counted this morning and we have had 88 people to be baptized since February 7. We know for a fact that in the beginning we missed several people's names. Today Kent and Trent have baptized 4 more persons. Our total is now at 92 persons. Have we retained them all? No, but we are seeing most of them over and over again. Many of them have been filled with the baptism of the Spirit. We are so excited.

Last night's service was the most amazing yet. Our back pew was filled with young adults. There were young ladies and men about the ages of my children. They were weeping and praying at their pew. Some had multiple piercings and very far out tatoos. Several of them left the pews and went to the altar with their hands raised to God. One dropped to his knees and wept and cried saying he had never felt anything like what he was feeling. He was baptized and returned to his seat. Later he went back to the altar and wept and cried. These were obviously very hard living men and ladies. They have promised to be back this week. I KNOW God is going to work in their lives.

Additionally, Trent and Matthew have found out about a group of 2000 'couch hoppers'. These are young people still in school that are homeless. They go from friends house to friends house and park to park without a home of their own. We are praying for an in-road to these many teens. Please pray for Trent and Matthew to have wisdom and guidance from God in this new venture.

Ok...I must stop....just keep praying for the revival to continue!

Tomorrow Kent and I fly to Denver for the memorial service of one of our sweet men, Lafe Mckinney. We are going to stay over for an extra day. Our plans are to ride the train to the top of Pike's Peak. This is an elevation of over 14,000 ft. Last week Denver had over 20 inches of snow. Maybe we will see snow on the mountain! I will post pics using my new camera!!!!

My Girls

Ok...I KNOW I said my next post would be about a miracle dedicated to Mandy Orange but......

I just couldn't resist posting this pic of MY girls! I LOVE beautiful Pentecostal girls. Redonia is on the left. Calah is on the right. Both of these girls are gifts from the Lord to our family. Redonia is the daughter that we prayed for to be able to rear from infancy. She came to us via means of adoption. Calah is also our daughter we prayed for from the moment God gave us our son. We prayed God would give Trent a good wife. We wanted someone that would love him like we love him, laugh at his foolishness, and love serving God with him. Calah does all of this and more. We are so blessed....people who don't know never suspect Redonia is adopted. She and Trent have always looked so much alike. The older she gets people think she looks like me.

Calah was Redonia's friend before becoming Trent's friend. In fact Redonia encouraged Trent to take Calah to their first banquet/date. Of course once Redonia saw the relationship was escalating she didn't like Calah.:) Redonia didn't want to lose her 'bubby'. I'm thankful the girls are very close. The other day Redonia hadn't been with Calah in a few days and we meet at a restaurant. Immediately when we walked in Redonia went straight to Calah and gave her a big hug.

I love my girls (and my boys!!).....

PS A miracle post really is coming. I hope to post about it tonight or in the morning.

Have a Blessed Sunday

May you feel the blessings of God today regardless the season of life you or your church find yourself in today. While CUPC is enjoying harvest today I certainly remember the times of toiling and planting. Sure there was a small harvest it those times. However, they were not times of a great harvest.

Being the granddaughter of a Alabama farmer I truly realize the beauty of the fields. Having worked several summers in the fields myself I KNOW while the farmer works hard there is that brief time that he must sit back and trust God with the elements and for a good harvest. When the sun may scorch or not enough rain would fall a field may have to be worked and planted again. A true farmer never gives up on the land, seeds, or harvest. Often a farmer utilizes or explores new methods, new types of seeds, and new equipment. Thankfully the farmer doesn't have to use the old horse and plow methods. One thing for sure it always requires seed, land and God. A true revival can not be formed without sowing, the church, and most importantly God.

Today I honor two men...my Papaw who taught me what little bit I know about natural farming and my Father who instilled in me the love for outreach. I walked streets on Saturday outreach, worked the white bus with blue trim on Sundays, and loved people no matter what position of life they may be in. I went to the 'country' as we called it with Papaw. I remember picking beans, peas, and worst of all cucumbers and squash. Papaw was a commercial farmer. He had 'big fields' not just small gardens. I know if we sow big fields today we will yeild big harvest! Wow!!! How encouraging?

Farming isn't easy nor is revival. Girls, lets work hard today....Harvest is worth it!

PS my next post will be a miracle post and will be dedicated to my friend Mandy Elms.

My Week

Wow! What a week it has been! Sunday night was a miserable night with a very sore leg. Remember I fell from the van several weeks back? I've acted tough been tough and kept right on going. Sunday night after church however a youngster accidentally pushed me into a pew. Ouch my bad leg! Monday I woke up with a swollen tingling leg. Kent and I decided I should go to the orthopedic doctor. Much to my surprise I learned when I fell I broke my ankle and chipped my shin in numerous places. It's too late for casting and the ankle is close to being healed. I'm trying some cold/hot treatments for the leg. No hiding breaks and chips. The x-rays were amazingly clear. Of course the doctor wanted to know how on earth I did such damage. I explained the bus route. After going to x-ray and returning for consultation he reduced my bill greatly because of me helping at-risk children. The office visit and x-rays were only $126! What a blessing! Ok...life goes on and I've been on my leg entirely too much this week so I'm thinking it's going to be just fine.

I have lost count of how many people have been baptized since Sunday. We have in excess of 40 towels and a portable closet rack of baptismal robes and jumpsuits and we still don't have enough. Problems...yes but good problems!

Tuesday we spent the day with some close friends the Jeff Sherry Family. The girls enjoyed time together while the guys played golf. Later that evening we enjoyed dinner and coffee together. I love spending time with friends!!!

Today we have had hopsital visits and just other church business to attend. Also, Kent, Redonia, Trent, Calah and I attended the Montgomery County Tax Day Tea Party on our court house steps. I'm glad to be American where we can demonstrate our rights of freedom. There was an amazing crowd of citizens. The children from the audience were invited to the platform to lead the pledges. Also there was a most moving prayer given. It was great watching men remove caps and hats in honor of both our country and God. Redonia took pics maybe I'll create a slideshow. People were quite expressive in their banners and posters. It was a very mannerly crowd. Tonight we will experience wonderful church as a result of our religious freedoms. Trent and Calah have been praying and fasting for a move of God in our youth. I can't wait to hear reports of what happens in the Studio tonight.

Tomorrow Kent and I will travel to Lufkin for our District Conference. I think some rest is in order!!! There isn't much to do in Lufkin so surely I will get a nap Thursday and Friday.

Saturday our church is hosting a neighborhood picnic in a high crime/drug area of our city. At this picnic one of the young men whom God has delivered and set free even from prison will be sharing his testimony. We are taking a portable tank for baptisms. We are expecting miracles!!

Sunday is coming....more outpourings of the Spirit and baptisms. I can hardly wait!!! I hope each of your week was as blessed as mine has been....

Experience Pentecost

Pentecost Sunday is a celebration of the receiving of the Holy Spirit by the early church. John the Baptist prophesied of the first Pentecost where Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire (Matthew 3:11). Jesus confirmed this prophesy with the promise of the Holy Spirit to the disciples in John 14:26. Jesus told the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for they would receive power to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:3-8). After Jesus’ ascension to heaven, the men returned to Jerusalem and joined together in prayer in an upper room.

On the Day of Pentecost, just as promised, a violent wind filled the house and tongues of fire came to rest on each of them and all were filled with the Holy Spirit. After the fall of the Holy Spirit, the disciples did not stay in the upper room. They burst out telling the world of their experience. This was the beginning of the Church as we know it. Just as those filled with the Spirit in the Upper Room noised abroad their experience we must share with people the delivering saving power of Jesus Christ. It is my desire that everyone I meet will experience Pentecost.

I am happy to report that the experience of Pentecost was not just for those who tarried in the upper room. Rather is promised for us today according to Acts 2:39. CUPC is experiencing the outpouring of the Spirit. Pentecost is alive and well. The past couple of weeks we have baptized 50 persons and have witnessed 20 or more persons receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

This coming Saturday we will host a picnic in one of our local parks. We plan to witness an outpouring of God’s Spirit in the park. Additionally, we plan to baptize people in the name of Jesus Christ. Additionally, our church is working towards a powerful Pentecost Sunday May 31, 2009.

Happy Easter

This has been a wonderful Easter weekend. Yesterday Kent drove the bus for me and a few excited youth and young adults. The bus was filled to capacity. We were so thankful. The kids enjoyed a wonderful Easter Egg Hunt, refreshments, fun and games, and the Easter Story told by Matt Newton using Resurrection Eggs.

Today we had a wonderful Easter Service. Trent and Calah put together a powerful worship service. Our choir and muscians did an amazing job. Evangelist Mark Winters preached a wonderful sermon. Five persons were baptized and three received the Holy Spirit. What a resurrection! Kent has pushed for this to be a week of resurrection for many people. His goal has certainly been met. After church our Great Room was converted into a dining hall. Many people were feed a traditional Easter lunch including ham and turkey. Deadra and I prepared Easter Goodie Bags. Joseph, one of our men, told me ladies would like them but the men probably wouldn't get excited about them. Well, much to Joseph's surprise the men were really excited! Thanks, Deadra, for helping me with this project.

I prepared pretty Easter baskets for my children. Of course the bunny couldn't deliver Trent and Calah's so I had to deliver it to church to them. I think all three of my children loved their baskets. Everyone enjoys surprises!

Two of my nieces asked me to hide eggs for them this afternoon. No one can resist Madeline and Kyleigh. I miss the days of finding plastic eggs all over my house for weeks following Easter. I missed dying eggs this year, too.

Hopefully in a day or two I will find time to create a slide show of a few glimpses of our weekend. It has been a glorious Easter. I hope you have enjoyed a resurrected saviour, too.

EXXXXXXCIIIIIITTTTEEEDDDDDDDDDD!

Ok, several months ago I asked God for a bus for all my 'lil outreach babies! Kent was looking at vans and I finally got the nerve to tell him I wanted a bus instead. Noticed I said I finally got the nerve to tell Kent. Well, that's becuase he is such an AWESOME husband and he always tries to make sure whatever I need happens.

I wasn't sure a bus was feasible finacially. Long story short is we started praying for a miracle. I told the other outreach peeps and they began to pray and believe for a bus, too. It was a unified effort of prayer. Unity always works!

Today the beautiful bus arrived!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so very THANKFUL to God and to EVERYONE who is making this a reality. When Kent called me to tell me he had purchased the bus I couldn't help but scream with excitement. Mickey couldn't scream because he was at work but boy was he ever excited! Oh my goodness was Matthew ever SCREAMING!!!!! Then Shirley Nunez was giggling and screaming at the very same time!!!!!! These are the adults who help with outreach. All the youth helpers were soooooo happy, too!

Wow!!!! Everyone that I have spoken with from CUPC is wildly excited. Kent took a bunch of us on a ride. It's so very cool. Next week it's going to the shop to be painted. I can't wait.

This has been a miracle week....MANY baptisms, many Holy Ghost outpourings, great revival with a wonderful evangelist and a DYNAMIC church! I'm a blessed Pastor's Wife.

Emotional Shopping Trip

Today I went to a store that I really do not enjoy shopping. Not for any reason other than it's hard to find a parking space, the aisles are crowded with people, and many of the shoppers there are unmannerly. I know each of these are quite selfish reasons. To the ladies from CUPC reading this post they know I am referring to Wal-Mart.

This morning I woke up excited to serve the Lord. This is the day I planned to shop for items to fill Easter goody bags for the approximately 60 homeless persons. CUPC has fed lunch to these persons the past few Sundays.

Kent and I rode together this morning. Before shopping we had to go by the church. As we pulled into the parking lot I saw Joseph smiling with two men. Trent had already baptized the two men. One of them is a man that has visited CUPC numerous times over the past few years. Wow!!!

I spent a few minutes in the office with Deadra before heading to play the Easter Bunny. As I picked up my first items and placed them in the shopping cart tears filled my eyes. Where did the tears come from? I couldn't stop crying. I cried the entire time I filled my cart.

A neighboring minister came up to me and said, "I came to tease you but Sis. Smith it looks like you may be carrying the stresses of a Pastor's wife today." I quickly responded, "No, today I'm carrying the JOYS of a Pastor's wife." I pointed to my cart and told him what I was doing. He smiled softly and said a few kind words to me.

As I pulled back into church I didn't notice Joseph's vehicle. I rushed into the office carrying bags. There was Joseph with two more men. The men were filling out baptismal forms. Pastor, Deadra and I went into the sanctuary with the men. As Kent began to talk with them about baptism and their "new" life I couldn't help but weep harder. These men were very sincere. One teased (they are homeless) "Where's a bar of soap I would love a bath in this nice warm water."

This week has been the greatest Resurrection Week ever. I shall never forget the blessing I felt while buying Easter candy and treats today. Nor will I ever forget the MANY people my husband and son have baptized this week. We have teased Trent that his name is Trent the Baptist because he has baptized so many.

This just occured to me....my previous post was about Holiness, Faithfulness. I included the words to the song "Holiness Holiness is What I long For". The last verse is about BROKENESS. I didn't even mention the brokeness verse. Yesterday I purposed to not only be holy and faithful but to help CUPC become holy and faithful. Today I was privileged to feel broken. I want our entire congregation to feel what I feel today. I pray CUPC Sanctuary Choir can witness it. Choir, you are the best. Let's be holy, faithful and broken together for HIM.

I love you all...how do I end this....just weeping some more.

Holiness ... Faithfulness is What I Long For

Holiness, holiness is what I long for

Holiness is what I need

Holiness, holiness is what

You want from me

Holiness, holiness is what I long for

Holiness is what I need

Holiness, holiness is what

You want from me

So, take my heart and form it

Take my mind and transform it

Take my will and conform it

To Yours, to Yours, oh, Lord

Faithfulness, faithfulness is what I long for

Faithfulness is what I need

Faithfulness, faithfulness is what

You want from me

Brokenness, brokenness is what I long for

Brokenness is what I need

Brokenness, brokenness is what You want from me

Today this song has rolled through my thoughts several times. I spoke to our choir tonight on the subject of holiness. Our church has experienced GREAT victories of late. I want the victories to continue. I KNOW Satan wants to destroy holiness at any cost.

As a pastor's wife I find holiness harder to address than I did 5, 10, and 15 years ago. We are living in such an ungodly time. Society, government, advertisements, media, etc are against the holy nature of God. Unfortunately though I profess to be a holy person my conforming to society's thinking is probably an easy way for Satan to trip me. The scripture clearly states that the older should teach the younger. If the older becomes tolerable then who will teach. We are living in a day that we feel we must be broad and opened minded.

While I NEVER want to become judgemental I do want to make sure I live and fulfill scripture. Tonight I told our choir NEVER will I run around with a yardstick or ruler to judge nor do I ever want any of them to ask me if something is ok. Rather I want our choir members to ensure holiness is a matter of their hearts.

As I have hummed the song I realized an important thread. The song began with holiness then moved to faithfulness. Holiness enforces faithfulness. A lack of holiness uproots faithfulness. The faithfulness does not stay directed towards our spiritual relationship with God but rather moves into our physical relationships.

Divorce has touched our church too often. My thoughts have swiftly run to if holiness was apart of every heart and life would a lack of faithfulness occurred? God help me to be holy and faithful. Help me God to proclaim holiness and faithfulness to You.

Forgive me God for being a pastor's wife that has been hindered by the world's view and even at times too soft in pointing people to a stronger life of holiness. I KNOW if we have MORE of You in our lives we will be more faithful in serving You and our relationships.

Spring, Easter, The Resurrection

Easter is a very special holiday. When I think of Spring I immediately think about new life. Each of my flower beds have Spring budding perennials. The little bunnies are playing in the fresh green grass in our lawn. Young squirrels are chasing one another up and around the tall oaks.

Easter is a time for filling baskets with candy and prizes for my children. I know all three of them can hardly wait to receive their baskets. Maybe it’s I can hardly wait to give them their baskets. This year I get to fill another basket or make a larger one for Trent and Calah to share. Yes, Calah thinks I’m totally nuts but she LOVES me.

Easter is a time to bring out a new outfit or something saved from last Spring. Brights and whites tend to make their way out of the closets. I love seeing the toes on the little ones in their first pair of sandals. It’s a time for bubbles, jump ropes, kites, and hoola hoops.

What would spring be without attending at least one egg hunt? This year I can hardly wait to pick up the outreach kids for the CUPC annual egg hunt. It’s going to be fun. I enjoy dying eggs, filling plastic eggs, and decorating for Easter.

While, I love bunnies, eggs, and spring the most important part of Easter is celebrating the RESURRECTION of Jesus Christ. This Spring has been a MOST incredible time for CUPC. Sunday our ministers baptized 7 people. Today Trent baptized 2 more. This makes over 30 in an 8 day period. Wow!!! It is the goal of CUPC to make this entire week a time of teaching others about the RESURRECTION. We want everyone to know of the mercies and grace of God. Yes Spring is a time for new beginnings. We are certainly witnessing many new beginnings.

I volunteered to prepare baked ham for approximately 60 homeless and needy persons for Easter lunch. I can hardly wait!!!! My sister, Kristi, is heading up this massive Easter meal. I will either cook a holiday lunch for our family and Evangelist Mark Winters and family or we will find a meal after feeding our new friends. I KNOW nothing will compare to ensuring these people will be blessed to enjoy Easter. I wish I could give everyone of them an Easter basket. Maybe I will make them Easter goody bags. Everyone deserves some good Easter candy.

Friends, I hope you enjoy the blessings of a resurrected Savior this week. He is risen…what a blessing to serve Him!

Children: A Gift From God

Psalm 127; 1 Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. 2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep. 3 Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. 4 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. 5 Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

CHILDREN ARE PARENTS RESPONSIBILITY

Deuteronomy 11:19 And ye shall teach them your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

Proverbs 22:6Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

Our duty as parents is to:

• teach them the word
• teach them Godly ways by living as an example
• direct their steps until they are adults (even when they do not want us to)

CHILDREN ARE THE CHURCH’S RESPONSIBILITY
Titus chapter 21 But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: 2 That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. 3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; 4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. 6 Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.

The church should:

• Teach new parents to be parents
• Help parents in stressful times
• Reinforce parents discipline

Raising children is one of the most important duties we are given by God. While performing this duty God allows us to grow in so many ways. Our faith is often tested during this time in life. How we deal with raising our children is a direct testimony of our faith and trust in God as our guide in parenting. He gives us the handbook. It is up to us to use it and study it.

As a pastor's wife it concerns me when people are careful to protect their children from people or things that are harmful yet not careful to protect the same children against evil spirits that are harmful. Children nor teens are strong enough to withstand evil spirits who are seeking whom they may devour.

As a young child I remember when a person was tormented by evil spirits my parents would make sure I was far from the person. In a service when demonic activity would manifest itself my Mom would gather us near her and begin to call out on the Name of Jesus. I am so thankful for Godly praying parents. None of the four of us children were ever perfect. One thing we knew growing up was we weren't allowed to be near people who demeaned the church, ministers, or MOST IMPORTANTLY people who were blantantly against God. Mom and Dad knew we couldn't be near 'fire' without being burned.

Unfortunately the liberal mindset of the world guides are thinking. Too often we tolerate the intolerable. Yes I am a HUGE advocate of showing CARE to everyone. I do so daily. I will continue to do so. However, children should not be exposed to certain things. Years ago our church begin to reach group of young people. Many of whom dabbled in demonic things. During this time Kent and I made many trips to the home of David and Linda Weldon. Until we knew exactly what we were dealing with my children were not permitted to go into that environment. Did it hurt my children? NO! Did it offend the Weldon's? NO! In fact to this very day David and Linda Weldon are like a second set of parents to my children. Redonia and Trent KNOW that whatever they may need if Mom and Dad aren't available they can ALWAYS call on the Weldons.

It is most important that we do everything to protect our children from the evil spirits of this world. Nothing is important enough to sacrifice our children's spiritual lives. If we truly believe in spiritual warfare then we MUST realize people don't have to say anything to undermind doctrine or more importantly Jesus Christ. Rather, evil spirits can do a spiritual work in the lives of our children if we subject or children and do not protect them from the spirits.

Parents, since children are our gift from God we must nurture them as God would have them nurtured. Even scripture mentions giving milk to a child and not meat. Some things children just can not handle! Parents, wake up your children deserve it!

Be Encouraged He is an Awesome God

What a privilege to know an AWESOME God! Life will not always be perfect nor will it always be victorious but He is an AWESOME God. This morning I sit here in my chair reflecting on His AWESOME power in my life. I realize that while Kent and I are in a blessed time of revival we have not always lived in this realm. The times of pressures, trials, and problems did not mean he was not an AWESOME God.

Yesterday Kent and I talked about a brief time in our lives when we weren't involved in full-time ministry. It seemed during that time everyone asked where we were and what we were doing. The many questions became intimidating. I also remember a time here in Conroe when we struggled greatly. It was during that time everyone asked how we were doing. Again the questions were intimidating. The ones asking the questions never meant to be intimidating but pressures of life had us discouraged.

This morning, I want to encourage someone. Though you may be going thru a trial please know He is still an AWESOME God. I can truthfully say during times of pressure in my life I have looked at others and thought if they can do it so can I. Never look at others with jealousy or allow their victories to get you down. Rather realize God is not a respector of persons and what He is doing for others He will do for you. Sure it may be a few days before you receive your miracle or victory but hold on my dear friend. Your miracle is on its way!

When I was expecting Trent I had many complications. The doctors felt they would surely lose me, Trent, or both of us. It was a scarey and pressured time in our lives in many ways. The thought came to me one day look at everyone that is alive on the earth. They were born of a mother. This comforted me. Rather than think of how many die in childbirth or how many infants don't survive I chose to look at how many survived. Set your eyes today on another person's blessing and know the blessing is yours to receive, too!

Today God is an AWESOME God. Kent and I have received miracles this week. We have been praying for a certain miracle involving the church finances. This week it was met. Yes it was the last day that we had prayed for it to be met but it was met. The truth of the matter the deadline was our deadline and not anyone elses but God met our deadline! We baptized three more persons last night. A total of sixteen for the week. I visited with a lady whom I have prayed many prayers for yesterday. She came by the church and brought her boys to see me. They were some of our virst bus children. Later they moved away. Yesterday Sean stopped by to tell me they are back in Conroe. I thought they were going to be at church last night. I BELIEVE they will come Sunday. The Mom is hungry for more of God. Again last night we had many adults crying out to God in our altars. Some were visitors and others were people who come regularly.

Friend, please be encouraged today. We serve and AWESOME God. KNOW that God is AWESOME. What He is doing for me He will do for YOU!!!!! My prayer this morning is that today I can be an encouragement to someone. No I may not have the answers or solutions to your problems but I KNOW who has them. It is our AWESOME GOD!