Another Christmas has passed. The past two weeks have seemed like it went by too fast, which it did.
My time away from home really was nice. Being in Nashville for Joel's graduation from college was an experience I won't forget.
Those days afterward in Nashville he and I created memories to last a lifetime. 3rd row by bench against the glass for an NHL game, awesome seats with our friend Rob for the Titans football game and then floor seats with some of the family for Garth Brook's last night of concerts in Nashville for the Flood Relief are the highlights I speak of.
Most importantly though is that this holiday season I have been able to spend lots of quality time with those that matter most in my life. Above all else, family is that. Especially with all that has happened this year it was so great to be with family.
Because I've been so committed to my re-commitment to Christ it allowed me to fully enjoy all that He had for me recently.
The best example for this is my willingness to find Penny a new home. She's been an absolute blessing this year for me at home with my back issues, but having her around was also very burdensome for obvious reasons.
To confess that God had His hands on this whole situation and took care of it perfectly is an understatement.
After having Penny in the kennel at her vet in Daphne for the 12 nights ending on Monday night I picked her up Tuesday early afternoon. I had been praying so hard that God would provide Penny a new home. I'd even put an ad online trying to sell her with a nice write-up (if I do say so myself!) on Monday evening after returning home from Tennessee, and talked with everyone I knew that could help to find her a new home.
So I arrive at the vet and that's when I knew my prayers were answered so perfectly that I could only cry tears of joy. God provided a new home for Penny that includes 3 other dogs, over 60 horses and 60 acres of fenced land to play on. The man God placed in my life to take Penny that day from the vet was the best answer to prayers I could have ever asked for. He had been searching for a female Brittany for the last year to replace his aging female Brittany that has just gotten too old to hunt. He was impressed with Penny's obedience and training and took her home right then, putting her in the cab of his truck while he tended to the horses he'd brought to the vet for their shots. Penny didn't even look back at me and that made it so much easier for me.
I continue to miss her for lots and lots of reasons. But, I really don't miss the dog hair or the things she would so expertly chew-up on a daily basis. But above all else, this is the story of putting my faith solely in God's hands to provide and he exceeded my expectations beyond measure.
The phrase "I've never known a day when he didn't make a way" has stayed on my mind and heart since. If there was ever a time to not regret my re-commitment then this has been the time.
I have so much more that I'd like to mention and talk about regarding the holiday time and what's to come in life. But, honestly, I really don't find this blog factoring in to what I want to do in the near future, but I'll write when I find it appropriate.
Making sure the message that those who put their trust in the Lord will renew their strength is my #1 goal of this blog and this posting. I'm living proof that when you put your worries and life in His hands, anything is possible, for better or worse.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Jingo
So it's been a week since my last posting. This previous week was quite busy!
I smoked 4 dozen chicken quarters on my Stump's Elite 6 for a lunch at work. Our section chief purchased the meat and on Tuesday night he and I prepped all the chicken in my kitchen before I smoked it all at one time in the smoker on Wednesday morning. I underestimated the warm-up time for the Stump's but everything finished in time for me to make it to work before lunch. Everyone raved over the chicken and that always makes me feel so good.
Thursday I took Penny to the kennel where she is staying until next Monday the 27th. It's been exceptionally nice to not have to worry about her for the past few days. I know at some point I'll start missing her, but just not yet!
This brings me to the main reason for this previous week being so busy, but still exciting.
Joel graduated from Belmont University on Friday evening. The whole regular members of the family were in attendance except for my grandparents from Jackson but we took plenty of pictures and my aunt even got a nice video of him walking across the stage and accepting his diploma. YES, he did actually receive the diploma with his name and everything. Their school is one of the few that actually do this now. They mailed us ours at State! It's amazing to me how well Joel has done in college. Belmont was the perfect fit for him and the fact that he graduated with over a 3.0 GPA, and final semester GPA of 4.0, really just made us all so proud of him. Now it's on to the real-world!
A student graduating that night who was a native of Kenya gave a very inspirational speech. It was amazing to know he had come so far with his English and that Belmont helped give him a future he would not have had otherwise. Best of all he gave the glory to The Lord for all that had taken place.
Nashville has been so much fun even though it's so cold up here! -and it's not done showing me a good time either!
Saturday night Joel and I attended a Nashville Predators' hockey game and boy did we have great seats. Joel has a friend with connections and/or lots of money that gave us the seats and we enjoyed sitting so close to the glass. We'd both never been that close to the ice. I knew the game was going to be interesting when the L.A. Kings scored a goal against the home team within the first 15 seconds of the game! We were all shocked!
Today Joel and I went to the Tennessee Titan's home football game against the Texans. We had awesome seats again thanks to Rob who was so kind to let us tag along with him to the game in his season seats. As many would have guessed with the weather being so cold as it is, I DID have on lots of layers! Joel thought I was way overdressed and even talked me out of a heavier coat for my outer layer. Turns out I was perfectly comfortable in all my layers because we were in the shade on the home sideline the entire game. During the game I even held the defensive coordinator's wife's "D" poster that stands for Defense! It was lots of fun.
Tomorrow afternoon I plan to travel to Jackson, TN to visit my mother's side of the family for a few days. I will then ride with them back to Nashville on Wednesday because they are allowing me to use their extra ticket to the Garth Brooks' concert that night!!! See, the fun isn't over!
For Christmas Eve night mom, dad, Joel and I will be here in Joel's apartment before traveling to Jackson, TN to be with them for a family-wide get together for Christmas. It will be very great to be with everyone for the first time in two years for me. I wasn't able to attend last year's Christmas festivities including the Bobby Upton Poker Game but I look forward to being with everyone.
This has been an abnormal update but I just had to put in to writing what this week has meant to me and what is upcoming.
I hope everyone is able to have a safe and enjoyable Christmas week before the celebration of our Christ's birth! Truly stop to experience the wonder that is the reason for the season.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
I smoked 4 dozen chicken quarters on my Stump's Elite 6 for a lunch at work. Our section chief purchased the meat and on Tuesday night he and I prepped all the chicken in my kitchen before I smoked it all at one time in the smoker on Wednesday morning. I underestimated the warm-up time for the Stump's but everything finished in time for me to make it to work before lunch. Everyone raved over the chicken and that always makes me feel so good.
Thursday I took Penny to the kennel where she is staying until next Monday the 27th. It's been exceptionally nice to not have to worry about her for the past few days. I know at some point I'll start missing her, but just not yet!
This brings me to the main reason for this previous week being so busy, but still exciting.
Joel graduated from Belmont University on Friday evening. The whole regular members of the family were in attendance except for my grandparents from Jackson but we took plenty of pictures and my aunt even got a nice video of him walking across the stage and accepting his diploma. YES, he did actually receive the diploma with his name and everything. Their school is one of the few that actually do this now. They mailed us ours at State! It's amazing to me how well Joel has done in college. Belmont was the perfect fit for him and the fact that he graduated with over a 3.0 GPA, and final semester GPA of 4.0, really just made us all so proud of him. Now it's on to the real-world!
A student graduating that night who was a native of Kenya gave a very inspirational speech. It was amazing to know he had come so far with his English and that Belmont helped give him a future he would not have had otherwise. Best of all he gave the glory to The Lord for all that had taken place.
Nashville has been so much fun even though it's so cold up here! -and it's not done showing me a good time either!
Saturday night Joel and I attended a Nashville Predators' hockey game and boy did we have great seats. Joel has a friend with connections and/or lots of money that gave us the seats and we enjoyed sitting so close to the glass. We'd both never been that close to the ice. I knew the game was going to be interesting when the L.A. Kings scored a goal against the home team within the first 15 seconds of the game! We were all shocked!
Today Joel and I went to the Tennessee Titan's home football game against the Texans. We had awesome seats again thanks to Rob who was so kind to let us tag along with him to the game in his season seats. As many would have guessed with the weather being so cold as it is, I DID have on lots of layers! Joel thought I was way overdressed and even talked me out of a heavier coat for my outer layer. Turns out I was perfectly comfortable in all my layers because we were in the shade on the home sideline the entire game. During the game I even held the defensive coordinator's wife's "D" poster that stands for Defense! It was lots of fun.
Tomorrow afternoon I plan to travel to Jackson, TN to visit my mother's side of the family for a few days. I will then ride with them back to Nashville on Wednesday because they are allowing me to use their extra ticket to the Garth Brooks' concert that night!!! See, the fun isn't over!
For Christmas Eve night mom, dad, Joel and I will be here in Joel's apartment before traveling to Jackson, TN to be with them for a family-wide get together for Christmas. It will be very great to be with everyone for the first time in two years for me. I wasn't able to attend last year's Christmas festivities including the Bobby Upton Poker Game but I look forward to being with everyone.
This has been an abnormal update but I just had to put in to writing what this week has meant to me and what is upcoming.
I hope everyone is able to have a safe and enjoyable Christmas week before the celebration of our Christ's birth! Truly stop to experience the wonder that is the reason for the season.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
The Answer
So last night I watched a movie that I'd never seen. When I mention which movie it is you'll probably think I'm crazy.
It's A Wonderful Life.
Ok, go ahead and roll your eyes. I realize this isn't a movie that most go the first 26 years of their lives without seeing at least once. But I don't even have a reason not to have seen it other than older movies really aren't ones I am in a habit of watching, obviously.
I really enjoyed the movie and it rings true that they don't make movies like they used to. To be honest it was actually the perfect movie for me to watch because of what all has happened within the past couple months. Being down in south Alabama away from all my close friends and family takes its toll on my heart. I miss having friends I've grown up with around to talk and do things with. But this movie showed me that no matter what happens we impact others just by being in their lives, and they in ours. Honestly I never truly forget how blessed I am with the friends and family I have, but I just feel so undeserving. It really comes down to You Get What You Give. Hopefully when it comes my time they can say that I gave more than I took. Just happens that that's halfway true, because when I give to others I receive such joy and love in return that is 10-fold what I've ever given. Comes down to the Golden Rule really. I just want others to feel as good as I do about themselves. There are no complaints from me!
God made it apparent that last night was an all around teaching moment for me because the devotional was centered around Proverbs 17:17 - that A Friend Loves At All Times. I didn't have a clue what the devotion was going to be for last night when I started my day. I start each day and end each day with separate devotions. It just happens that this is one related so well to what I had just seen within the movie. And to be honest, it's one of the many times this has happened recently. -the devotion makes me smile once I read the verse because it is absolutely applicable to something I had been doing earlier in the day or it's related to something God had put on my heart that day also.
Josh Turner has a song from his latest album that I wanted to mention. The Answer. It speaks of all the questions we have in life and that Jesus Is The Answer. I respect Josh for recording such a powerful song on his album even if it might not be a single because of the spiritually demonizing media etc. Take a listen when you get a chance.
I want to mention that I usually title my entries as lyrics or names of songs. And yes, it really comes down to the fact that I'm not very creative when it comes to that type of thing. I simply listen to so much music on a daily basis that usually one or two songs really stick with me and make it to the title of a blog post.
Looking forward I have quite a busy schedule leading up to and after Christmas. Joel is graduating next week. It's so hard to imagine that he's finishing college. I'll be in Nashville for that and then also early in the week I'm lucky enough, if plans stay true, to attend one of Garth Brooks' concerts in Nashville with some of my family from Jackson. I can't wait! If the Lord called me to move closer to that area I wouldn't hold back. I miss Tennessee and my family up there. Not to mention I'd be closer to The Opry and The Ryman! :)
This blogging thing is actually becoming fun. I enjoy writing and it's nice to have this pseudo-journal to keep all my thoughts in.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
It's A Wonderful Life.
Ok, go ahead and roll your eyes. I realize this isn't a movie that most go the first 26 years of their lives without seeing at least once. But I don't even have a reason not to have seen it other than older movies really aren't ones I am in a habit of watching, obviously.
I really enjoyed the movie and it rings true that they don't make movies like they used to. To be honest it was actually the perfect movie for me to watch because of what all has happened within the past couple months. Being down in south Alabama away from all my close friends and family takes its toll on my heart. I miss having friends I've grown up with around to talk and do things with. But this movie showed me that no matter what happens we impact others just by being in their lives, and they in ours. Honestly I never truly forget how blessed I am with the friends and family I have, but I just feel so undeserving. It really comes down to You Get What You Give. Hopefully when it comes my time they can say that I gave more than I took. Just happens that that's halfway true, because when I give to others I receive such joy and love in return that is 10-fold what I've ever given. Comes down to the Golden Rule really. I just want others to feel as good as I do about themselves. There are no complaints from me!
God made it apparent that last night was an all around teaching moment for me because the devotional was centered around Proverbs 17:17 - that A Friend Loves At All Times. I didn't have a clue what the devotion was going to be for last night when I started my day. I start each day and end each day with separate devotions. It just happens that this is one related so well to what I had just seen within the movie. And to be honest, it's one of the many times this has happened recently. -the devotion makes me smile once I read the verse because it is absolutely applicable to something I had been doing earlier in the day or it's related to something God had put on my heart that day also.
Josh Turner has a song from his latest album that I wanted to mention. The Answer. It speaks of all the questions we have in life and that Jesus Is The Answer. I respect Josh for recording such a powerful song on his album even if it might not be a single because of the spiritually demonizing media etc. Take a listen when you get a chance.
I want to mention that I usually title my entries as lyrics or names of songs. And yes, it really comes down to the fact that I'm not very creative when it comes to that type of thing. I simply listen to so much music on a daily basis that usually one or two songs really stick with me and make it to the title of a blog post.
Looking forward I have quite a busy schedule leading up to and after Christmas. Joel is graduating next week. It's so hard to imagine that he's finishing college. I'll be in Nashville for that and then also early in the week I'm lucky enough, if plans stay true, to attend one of Garth Brooks' concerts in Nashville with some of my family from Jackson. I can't wait! If the Lord called me to move closer to that area I wouldn't hold back. I miss Tennessee and my family up there. Not to mention I'd be closer to The Opry and The Ryman! :)
This blogging thing is actually becoming fun. I enjoy writing and it's nice to have this pseudo-journal to keep all my thoughts in.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
Friday, December 10, 2010
He Is Good, So Good
Today is easily the best day spiritually that I've had in years.
Being the music lover I am, it usually helps when I find a few songs to keep on repeat and make the mood jovial all day. Today happened to be the How Great Thou Art album of gospel favorites from country music artists. I think they were all recorded at The Ryman. To say this album is a jewel wouldn't do it justice.
On repeat most of today has been 'Give Me Jesus' by Vince Gill and 'How Great Thou Art' by Carrie Underwood. I make no cover ups for my love for Carrie, even if she is a vegetarian and PETA supporter. Her voice happens to be absolutely perfect to my ears and heart with just about everything she sings (scorned x-boyfriend and pop infused songs excluded). Pretty much I melt when I hear her sing. Ok, I said it! I remember watching the video version of this performance on CMT whenever it came out and I was blown away. She hits every note and brought the house down.
The song she has on the charts now called 'Mama's Song' really touches my heart. It says what every girl should be able to tell her mother. That she shouldn't worry about the man her daughter is marrying. "He Is Good, So Good" is one of the stanzas within the song. Recently it hit me how this part of the song reflects my feelings towards God and how He is good, so good. Obviously this song has no real world application to me because of, well, me not being a girl and the rest of it. But this didn't stop the song from impacting me. I hope one day that my wife can say that to her mother. More importantly though, is we all have someone that makes promises He keeps and won't ever leave us. (more lyrics for those that don't know the song) So, moral of the story and randomization above, He can even speak to us through a song we thought didn't have anything to do with spirituality.
Vince Gill's version of 'Give Me Jesus' is another touching song. When I awake, give me Jesus. You can have the world, but just Give Me Jesus. He is all we need for fulfillment. I really really like this song and him singing it.
So that brings me back to the gospel/hymns I've been sifting through lately. There are certain ones that bring back memories of being young in church and singing them with family. Yah, you know that part of history when we actually sang hymns from the hymnal in church and there wasn't a projector screen on the wall to watch. Strange how times have changed....
But anyways, tonight I finally started listening to Christmas hymns. Celine Dion's 'Oh Holy Night' is always the right song to get me in the Christmas spirit.
Speaking of Christmas music, Rick and Bubba played Alabama's "Christmas In Dixie" this morning and that really brought back memories of listening to that when we'd travel to visit family during Christmas.
Tonight I also started a bit of a DIY project for "gifts" for the annual games that arise during this time of year. I can't tell you what they are but whomever is the recipient during a "Dirty Santa" will be happily surprised and actually like what is received. I really enjoy making things, as most know, and this has been a fun project thus far.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
Being the music lover I am, it usually helps when I find a few songs to keep on repeat and make the mood jovial all day. Today happened to be the How Great Thou Art album of gospel favorites from country music artists. I think they were all recorded at The Ryman. To say this album is a jewel wouldn't do it justice.
On repeat most of today has been 'Give Me Jesus' by Vince Gill and 'How Great Thou Art' by Carrie Underwood. I make no cover ups for my love for Carrie, even if she is a vegetarian and PETA supporter. Her voice happens to be absolutely perfect to my ears and heart with just about everything she sings (scorned x-boyfriend and pop infused songs excluded). Pretty much I melt when I hear her sing. Ok, I said it! I remember watching the video version of this performance on CMT whenever it came out and I was blown away. She hits every note and brought the house down.
The song she has on the charts now called 'Mama's Song' really touches my heart. It says what every girl should be able to tell her mother. That she shouldn't worry about the man her daughter is marrying. "He Is Good, So Good" is one of the stanzas within the song. Recently it hit me how this part of the song reflects my feelings towards God and how He is good, so good. Obviously this song has no real world application to me because of, well, me not being a girl and the rest of it. But this didn't stop the song from impacting me. I hope one day that my wife can say that to her mother. More importantly though, is we all have someone that makes promises He keeps and won't ever leave us. (more lyrics for those that don't know the song) So, moral of the story and randomization above, He can even speak to us through a song we thought didn't have anything to do with spirituality.
Vince Gill's version of 'Give Me Jesus' is another touching song. When I awake, give me Jesus. You can have the world, but just Give Me Jesus. He is all we need for fulfillment. I really really like this song and him singing it.
So that brings me back to the gospel/hymns I've been sifting through lately. There are certain ones that bring back memories of being young in church and singing them with family. Yah, you know that part of history when we actually sang hymns from the hymnal in church and there wasn't a projector screen on the wall to watch. Strange how times have changed....
But anyways, tonight I finally started listening to Christmas hymns. Celine Dion's 'Oh Holy Night' is always the right song to get me in the Christmas spirit.
Speaking of Christmas music, Rick and Bubba played Alabama's "Christmas In Dixie" this morning and that really brought back memories of listening to that when we'd travel to visit family during Christmas.
Tonight I also started a bit of a DIY project for "gifts" for the annual games that arise during this time of year. I can't tell you what they are but whomever is the recipient during a "Dirty Santa" will be happily surprised and actually like what is received. I really enjoy making things, as most know, and this has been a fun project thus far.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
Thursday, December 09, 2010
The Door Is Always Open
There's one task that I hope to quit forgetting to do on a daily basis. Sure, some days I forget to invert in the morning or evening. Other days I forget to take my medicine exactly when I should, and I pay for it later.
But the task I'm speaking of to not forget is that at times I neglect to go to God with my troubles first. This habit is simple to promise yourself and God during your quiet times, but in practical use we get in our own way. We tell ourselves many times each day that 'I can handle this on my own' or 'I don't need to bother God with such a trivial and worthless issue... it's a waste of His time'. Well, we immediately should run from this action and repent from putting our trust in ourselves and not in Him. Psalm 56:3 says that when we are afraid we put our trust in Him.
To me this shows that obviously since He can handle our worries and fears on the larger scale that He most certainly can take care of our smallest needs, no matter the amount. I just have to quit getting in my own way! -simple as that :o)
Rick Burgess mentioned a few weeks ago that the Bible clearly states that those of us who claim salvation then continue in our past sin are like dogs who return to their vomit. This profound statement hit me like a brick to the chest. Where have all the leaders of the church gone that use these analogies. Churches are halfway filled with congregations needing true and honest mentors to not sugar coat and dumb down The Word. Because I have faithfully shed my old self I must continue daily to not return to my past sins. Those who trust in the Lord have to not look past this. I think it's easily forgotten too much of the time. That's what God has taught me lately.
Recognizing what He is laying on our hearts on a daily, weekly, monthly and yearly basis means we are regularly speaking with Him and trusting that He will provide according to His plan. Someone recently said that if we knew what He knows about our lives and the decisions we face that we would make the same choices. Because we can't know everything and all possible reasons or 'angles' for what takes place in our lives we must trust in Him to provide a path in which to take. I fear not what the future holds for my life because my future is in His hands.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the Holy Spirit be with you all.
But the task I'm speaking of to not forget is that at times I neglect to go to God with my troubles first. This habit is simple to promise yourself and God during your quiet times, but in practical use we get in our own way. We tell ourselves many times each day that 'I can handle this on my own' or 'I don't need to bother God with such a trivial and worthless issue... it's a waste of His time'. Well, we immediately should run from this action and repent from putting our trust in ourselves and not in Him. Psalm 56:3 says that when we are afraid we put our trust in Him.
To me this shows that obviously since He can handle our worries and fears on the larger scale that He most certainly can take care of our smallest needs, no matter the amount. I just have to quit getting in my own way! -simple as that :o)
Rick Burgess mentioned a few weeks ago that the Bible clearly states that those of us who claim salvation then continue in our past sin are like dogs who return to their vomit. This profound statement hit me like a brick to the chest. Where have all the leaders of the church gone that use these analogies. Churches are halfway filled with congregations needing true and honest mentors to not sugar coat and dumb down The Word. Because I have faithfully shed my old self I must continue daily to not return to my past sins. Those who trust in the Lord have to not look past this. I think it's easily forgotten too much of the time. That's what God has taught me lately.
Recognizing what He is laying on our hearts on a daily, weekly, monthly and yearly basis means we are regularly speaking with Him and trusting that He will provide according to His plan. Someone recently said that if we knew what He knows about our lives and the decisions we face that we would make the same choices. Because we can't know everything and all possible reasons or 'angles' for what takes place in our lives we must trust in Him to provide a path in which to take. I fear not what the future holds for my life because my future is in His hands.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the Holy Spirit be with you all.
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
The Day Which Will Live In Infamy
 |
| Blue Angels July 2010 Pensacola Beach, Florida |
Today I was surprised by the lack of patriotism I saw during the course of an otherwise normal day at work. Even working at a Federal building I noticed nothing announced within emails or posted on bulletin boards.
To me December 7th, 1941 will be a day that forever changed the course of life for millions of people around the world. For families whose loved ones enlisted, this day marked the start of a new beginning in America. The Greatest Generation was just starting to break ground and grow roots and make an impact for the world that is still felt today. What makes that generation so special is that they didn't have to talk about their experiences, they didn't want or need the attention. They simply did what was asked of them to the best of their ability and that was the end of it. Countless Servicemen went decades before mentioning their experiences during The War. Some speak even less often of this time, even after 69 years.
To me December 7th, 1941 will be a day that forever changed the course of life for millions of people around the world. For families whose loved ones enlisted, this day marked the start of a new beginning in America. The Greatest Generation was just starting to break ground and grow roots and make an impact for the world that is still felt today. What makes that generation so special is that they didn't have to talk about their experiences, they didn't want or need the attention. They simply did what was asked of them to the best of their ability and that was the end of it. Countless Servicemen went decades before mentioning their experiences during The War. Some speak even less often of this time, even after 69 years.
Joseph Earl Cook was one of these men. Grandjoe, as we grandchildren call him, enlisted in the Navy soon after this day at the age of 18. He was stationed in Pensacola, or near the area, for flight school training and once that was completed he flew PB-Y and PB-M planes on reconnaissance missions in the Pacific. Mostly these took place in the East China Sea and also near Japan. He wrote in his journal during this time about the impact this had on such a young man, him only being 19 or so and being entrusted with the lives of comrades. Grandjoe also recounts the story of his commanding officer wanting him to fly with him on his plane within the squadron and then the plane he was supposed to be on being shot down and everyone dying. For Joseph Earl Cook the experience of The Pacific radically molded the man he would become later in life. He would shape the lives of his entire family and offspring by the years he spent serving our great country.
I mention how grateful I am for those that have gone on to Heaven, and I sincerely mean it when I say it. Grandjoe will always be my hero. A man who embodied the call to arms in a time when the country needed him. I've been so lucky to have a previous job where I worked on military installations. Being able to see our men and women training and preparing for a not so certain future has reinforced my sense of pride for the USA.
There's also another reason for my patriotism. For about as long as I can remember I've been going to see the Blue Angels fly in Pensacola with my family. Grandjoe was the catalyst for these trips and he will forever be the reason I go as often as possible for the rest of my life. I hope to take my kids and show them the planes that he flew in the Pacific and retell the few stories he told me while he was still here. I actually have felt that he is the reason I have a great sense of direction and can very easily understand spatial relationships. He being a pilot, direction comes as second nature, and I too, think this is something he passed down to me.
Who knows just how much the course of time was altered when Japan attacked Pearl Harbor. It was God's plan that Joseph Earl Cook come back from the war and attend and graduate from Auburn Polytechnic Institute where he would meet his wife and then they would start a family. This is where I come in a bunch of years down the road.
And that's why December 7th is special to me, and always will be.
His graveside funeral this summer will live with me forever. The currently enlisted Navy serviceman and women that attended the service playing taps was a chilling reminder of Grandjoe's sacrifice to our country. The beautiful and absolutely perfect Red, White, and Blue American Flag draped across his casket as the highest symbol of honor and gratitude possible on Earth made me proud to have been of his blood. The folding of the flag, the presentation of it to my grandmother, and she stating "On behalf of the President of the United States and the Chief of Naval Operations, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your husband's service to this Country and a grateful Navy." -this brought chills to my whole body.
It was a personal call to never let our nation forget the sacrifices of our service men and women and their families. The tears were symbols of regret for him not being fully capable of understanding my gratitude towards his service, and me never being able to tell him again.
So if you think of December 7th as just another day on the calendar, or one of the shopping days before Christmas..... stop and examine just what a profound impact December 7th, 1941 might have had on your grandparents or parents. It just might have been the reason you are here.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
-MCC
And that's why December 7th is special to me, and always will be.
His graveside funeral this summer will live with me forever. The currently enlisted Navy serviceman and women that attended the service playing taps was a chilling reminder of Grandjoe's sacrifice to our country. The beautiful and absolutely perfect Red, White, and Blue American Flag draped across his casket as the highest symbol of honor and gratitude possible on Earth made me proud to have been of his blood. The folding of the flag, the presentation of it to my grandmother, and she stating "On behalf of the President of the United States and the Chief of Naval Operations, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your husband's service to this Country and a grateful Navy." -this brought chills to my whole body.
It was a personal call to never let our nation forget the sacrifices of our service men and women and their families. The tears were symbols of regret for him not being fully capable of understanding my gratitude towards his service, and me never being able to tell him again.
"There's only two people who's ever died for me, laid down their life just so I could be free. They both went through hell, beared crosses and shells, and both got back up again after they fell. They never pick the fight but they're there to pickup the pieces.
God only knows who we'd be without Soldiers and Jesus"
So if you think of December 7th as just another day on the calendar, or one of the shopping days before Christmas..... stop and examine just what a profound impact December 7th, 1941 might have had on your grandparents or parents. It just might have been the reason you are here.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
-MCC
Monday, December 06, 2010
Even The Skies Are Blue
Well the cold weather has arrived in South Alabama. Today once I get home from work I must cover my satsuma tree to keep it warm, even though it's on the south side of my house. I'd already wrapped the trunk/graft with bubble wrap and newspaper, but the rain and wind kind of did some damage on that stuff already!
I can't say that I care for cold weather too much. Luckily my home is super insulated and it keeps the heat in very well, but I haven't been running the heat at all, or really needed to yet. If we get a few days where highs aren't much over 40* then I bet I'll have to keep the radiator heater going when I'm in the house. I think my experience in the Sycamore House in Starkville during the winter of not using heat effected me this way. Sure it was nostalgic and such to do so back in college, but for the most part I stay comfortable in my home within reason now days.
Lately I've really been into reading blogs and such which speak on the subject of frugality or minimalism. Not that I'm trying to become some tree hugger, but I simply just want to live within my means for as long as I can. Wastefulness just isn't an option when you don't have much, so I'm preparing for that now in case at some point I don't have much! Having your own house as a single guy sure is a luxury but there's no one to share costs with so I try to eliminate wasting money as much as possible now days.
So, because it is getting close to the season of giving (aka Chirst's birth) the flurry of shopping tends to rise amongst the masses. Most know that I'm not really into giving for holidays and birthdays. I get this from my uncle Bobby who gave throughout the year and because he had too many nieces and nephews to give to and keep up with, he simply made it a rule to treat everyone equally and just not give gifts to the children. Growing up I found it fair and just, and didn't worry too much about it. What mattered most was getting to spend time chatting with him and Aunt Mary in their small house. Why do people keep thinking STUFF is going to last? Well, it's because we are bombarded by ads telling us we have to by this and that to stay up with the Who's Who.
I miss those who have gone on to heaven. The friends that have impacted my life for the better. Each day I wake up and look at a flag from Uncle Bobby on my bedroom wall and I'm reminded that it's the moments and memories we make with each other that truly matter, that truly last. Out of 25yrs of getting gifts for Christmas I may can name 3 or 4. This Christmas I'm especially mindful of sticking close to the meaning of Christmas and worshipping His birth and a Father that will never forsake me. I really wish more people would take inventory of their lives such as in 2Corinthians 13:5. Quit putting it off. We have churches filled with citizens merely sitting there from habit.
Even though his body was failing him daily, John Jones didn't ask 'Why Me, Lord' from the standpoint of pity. He asked Him to reveal the reason Why, Lord so that he could continue fulfilling his calling here on earth before being called to Heaven. God showed me that He can even use a man, John, who has grown frail to impact His kingdom. I'm forever grateful for the selflessness of John and the profound way his passing has changed my life this year. I'm reminded daily that though I struggle with chronic pain and my body may fail me that God has a plan for me to impact His kingdom. I pray often that He will show me this plan and that I can continue to show compassion for those hurting and in need of relief. I don't wish chronic pain on anyone, it's a depressive state if you're priorities are not in line, and I'm so lucky to have mine as they should. Chronic pain does funny things with our minds and hearts. It weakens our desire to do even the simplest of daily tasks. If I go without my medicine for just a couple hours my will power just isn't strong enough to cope with the pain anymore. I try not to worry but simply Give it Up to Him during those times. This is how it should be. God reminds me that I cannot be satisfied by my body's desire to be healthy and well, but that I can count on Him alone to fulfill my needs and desires. What stronger commitment is there in this world? That no matter how I try to help myself I will never get there alone, I must put ALL my trust in HIM, Chirst Jesus, who Strengthens Me.
Through this blog/posting I don't wish for comments on my pain or sympathy. I only want to express the deep desire to be used by God for furthering His kingdom through this trial in my life. I pray that if anyone has someone in their life that can't cope with their struggles that they should turn to God for the answer and not just a doctor or a bottle of medicine. He is the only anecdote for what hurts us.
May God Continue To Bless You!
I can't say that I care for cold weather too much. Luckily my home is super insulated and it keeps the heat in very well, but I haven't been running the heat at all, or really needed to yet. If we get a few days where highs aren't much over 40* then I bet I'll have to keep the radiator heater going when I'm in the house. I think my experience in the Sycamore House in Starkville during the winter of not using heat effected me this way. Sure it was nostalgic and such to do so back in college, but for the most part I stay comfortable in my home within reason now days.
Lately I've really been into reading blogs and such which speak on the subject of frugality or minimalism. Not that I'm trying to become some tree hugger, but I simply just want to live within my means for as long as I can. Wastefulness just isn't an option when you don't have much, so I'm preparing for that now in case at some point I don't have much! Having your own house as a single guy sure is a luxury but there's no one to share costs with so I try to eliminate wasting money as much as possible now days.
So, because it is getting close to the season of giving (aka Chirst's birth) the flurry of shopping tends to rise amongst the masses. Most know that I'm not really into giving for holidays and birthdays. I get this from my uncle Bobby who gave throughout the year and because he had too many nieces and nephews to give to and keep up with, he simply made it a rule to treat everyone equally and just not give gifts to the children. Growing up I found it fair and just, and didn't worry too much about it. What mattered most was getting to spend time chatting with him and Aunt Mary in their small house. Why do people keep thinking STUFF is going to last? Well, it's because we are bombarded by ads telling us we have to by this and that to stay up with the Who's Who.
I miss those who have gone on to heaven. The friends that have impacted my life for the better. Each day I wake up and look at a flag from Uncle Bobby on my bedroom wall and I'm reminded that it's the moments and memories we make with each other that truly matter, that truly last. Out of 25yrs of getting gifts for Christmas I may can name 3 or 4. This Christmas I'm especially mindful of sticking close to the meaning of Christmas and worshipping His birth and a Father that will never forsake me. I really wish more people would take inventory of their lives such as in 2Corinthians 13:5. Quit putting it off. We have churches filled with citizens merely sitting there from habit.
Even though his body was failing him daily, John Jones didn't ask 'Why Me, Lord' from the standpoint of pity. He asked Him to reveal the reason Why, Lord so that he could continue fulfilling his calling here on earth before being called to Heaven. God showed me that He can even use a man, John, who has grown frail to impact His kingdom. I'm forever grateful for the selflessness of John and the profound way his passing has changed my life this year. I'm reminded daily that though I struggle with chronic pain and my body may fail me that God has a plan for me to impact His kingdom. I pray often that He will show me this plan and that I can continue to show compassion for those hurting and in need of relief. I don't wish chronic pain on anyone, it's a depressive state if you're priorities are not in line, and I'm so lucky to have mine as they should. Chronic pain does funny things with our minds and hearts. It weakens our desire to do even the simplest of daily tasks. If I go without my medicine for just a couple hours my will power just isn't strong enough to cope with the pain anymore. I try not to worry but simply Give it Up to Him during those times. This is how it should be. God reminds me that I cannot be satisfied by my body's desire to be healthy and well, but that I can count on Him alone to fulfill my needs and desires. What stronger commitment is there in this world? That no matter how I try to help myself I will never get there alone, I must put ALL my trust in HIM, Chirst Jesus, who Strengthens Me.
Through this blog/posting I don't wish for comments on my pain or sympathy. I only want to express the deep desire to be used by God for furthering His kingdom through this trial in my life. I pray that if anyone has someone in their life that can't cope with their struggles that they should turn to God for the answer and not just a doctor or a bottle of medicine. He is the only anecdote for what hurts us.
May God Continue To Bless You!
Friday, December 03, 2010
an observation
So the local Bruno's in Spanish Fort is holding this giveaway of some 30 items for "the ultimate tailgate", even though the season is ending. All you gotta do is sign a slip of paper and place it in the box on table in front of store. It just so happens that I have made multiple trips to this store this week because I am getting back from a week of vacation and having very little around the house to eat. So, on Monday I noticed the table didn't have a pen, which is quite inconvenient if you're wanting patrons to participate in your giveaway. Well last night after work I needed to stop at the store again for something else and remembered to take a pen into the store with me just in case the same thing happened, to prevent me from searching from one around the front of the store.
As I'm casually signing my card a man and his about 7-yearold son walk up and he starts telling the son what all the giveaway includes. "Hey son, you see that etc etc." Well the son notices there's no pen to sign the cards and tells the father. I turn to the boy to give him my pen and I'll just finish filling out the card once he's finished. The father answers for him and says "No, we can fill it out later. I'll be back in later this week. It's probably rigged anyways".
I chuckled alittle bit but then once I got in the car I really started thinking about it. What is this father teaching his son. Yah sure, it's no big deal some say. But I mean this puts doubt in the son about trusting others to do what's right. Will the son grow up and never trust what a preacher says because he's being paid voluntarily by the congregation. I probably thought too much into it I know, but I just wondered what impact that would have on a son who looks to his father for confirmation with his life.
Anyways, I'm really looking forward to the SEC Championship game tomorrow. Auburn winning this year really makes me happy. A piece of me will always be in Auburn and I wouldn't discount an opportunity to be there fulltime. Spending time last week in Starkville reminded me just how special that place is to me as well. So I can't say I wouldn't want to end up there either!
Penny hasn't been eating very much at all this week until last night when I coated her food in cottage cheese, she loves anything mixed with that stuff! She also got some frosted miniwheats just in case she was a bit 'stopped up'... and it seems to have helped. I don't really know if it was her being constipated or just the change in the weather that has made her exceptionally grumpy this week. Of course it could be that she's just a lady and that's how they are sometimes! :)
Looking forward, tomorrow morning I hope to finish up my worktable for the garage I started last Sunday. Seems like the forecast for weather should be perfect for tomorrow with temps and everything. Penny will get a nice long walk/hunt in in the morning before I start the work in garage.
As always,
Do Good. Be Rich In Good Deeds.
As I'm casually signing my card a man and his about 7-yearold son walk up and he starts telling the son what all the giveaway includes. "Hey son, you see that etc etc." Well the son notices there's no pen to sign the cards and tells the father. I turn to the boy to give him my pen and I'll just finish filling out the card once he's finished. The father answers for him and says "No, we can fill it out later. I'll be back in later this week. It's probably rigged anyways".
I chuckled alittle bit but then once I got in the car I really started thinking about it. What is this father teaching his son. Yah sure, it's no big deal some say. But I mean this puts doubt in the son about trusting others to do what's right. Will the son grow up and never trust what a preacher says because he's being paid voluntarily by the congregation. I probably thought too much into it I know, but I just wondered what impact that would have on a son who looks to his father for confirmation with his life.
Anyways, I'm really looking forward to the SEC Championship game tomorrow. Auburn winning this year really makes me happy. A piece of me will always be in Auburn and I wouldn't discount an opportunity to be there fulltime. Spending time last week in Starkville reminded me just how special that place is to me as well. So I can't say I wouldn't want to end up there either!
Penny hasn't been eating very much at all this week until last night when I coated her food in cottage cheese, she loves anything mixed with that stuff! She also got some frosted miniwheats just in case she was a bit 'stopped up'... and it seems to have helped. I don't really know if it was her being constipated or just the change in the weather that has made her exceptionally grumpy this week. Of course it could be that she's just a lady and that's how they are sometimes! :)
Looking forward, tomorrow morning I hope to finish up my worktable for the garage I started last Sunday. Seems like the forecast for weather should be perfect for tomorrow with temps and everything. Penny will get a nice long walk/hunt in in the morning before I start the work in garage.
As always,
Do Good. Be Rich In Good Deeds.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)