LET IT SNOW!

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! If you live in S. Texas the weather will amaze you your entire life. This morning we woke up to “Slightly Cloudy & A Chance of Snow” ! What? These predictions come along from time to time and usually nothing ever comes of them, but today has turned into one of those magical days. For those of us that seldom experience “real snow”, I don’t have to tell you how excited we all become, even us big kids.

As I slipped on my boots and coat for a trip outdoors to experience “real snow”, I felt the old familiar crunch of each step. I turned back to see my footprints. Yes, there they were, a very visible reminder of where I had just walked. Just as I could see my most recent path, I thought of how God can see every step I take. Oh Father, please guide my steps and let me be obedient to Your guiding.

I’m reminded too that this beautiful dusting of snow is only by God’s hand. It totally makes me think of His “Grace”, the grace He gives to me. He gives it to me, undeserving as I am, and still loves me and covers me with it. This snow today is a wonderful reminder of how perfectly His grace covers. Snow is white and pure, just like Him. It’s bright and beautiful just like He is light. It’s soft and quiet as it covers completely, just as He covers His children under His wings of protection.

I praise God today for His awesome reminder of how much He loves and cares for us. I praise Him too for this reminder of His beauty. If you too were reminded today of God’s grace as this beautiful snow drifts down, join me in thinking on things of Him.

Oh, by the way, it is now snowing again, even harder. Thank you, Father.
Blessings, Prissy

Jesus Messiah performed by Daves Highway

I pray you take the time to listen to these precious little children as they praise God with their sweet voices. How beautiful to hear these praises without instrument accompaniment. My prayer is that you too will be lifted up today. Each day is such a gift given only by Jesus, may He be praised for all eternity by our love for Him through voices such as these.
Blessings, Prissy

Click Link Below:
Jesus Messiah
performed by Daves Highway

To All You Blessed Young Mothers...

TIME is precious. You can't get back one single moment or a wasted moment. Watch them breathe, listen to their noises, study their little fingers as they move about, breathe deeply that priceless pure smell after a bath, hold their feet in your hand before they can run away, kiss them constantly before they learn to resist, thank God when they interrupt your busy-ness, read, sing, pray.

I thank my Heavenly Father for these gifts.

Disturbed

I am deeply disturbed over a book that has recently received much attention in the Christian community. Having recently attended a women’s conference, my ears perked up when this book was mentioned. The speaker, a well-known speaker in Christian circles, just mentioned the book. She offered no comment regarding the book, but I remembered it being mentioned. I had heard of its existence, but knew nothing of it. Only a week or two later at my own church, it was mentioned again in a positive vain from a dear woman giving her testimony after surviving cancer. Again, my ears perked up as I thought – this might be a book worth reading. The book I am referring to is The Shack, by William P. Young.

Just a few days later I found myself in our local Christian Book Store and there before me was a display of this book. You can just imagine what I thought; “I need to buy this book”. It must be the Holy Spirit moving me to buy it, and while I’m here, I’ll get an extra copy for my daughter-in-law as a surprise. So I did. I tore into the book as if it were chocolate. Immediately I was hooked. I found the first few chapters full of suspense. I was anxious to see what all the hype was about regarding it popularity.

I found myself zipping right along until it hit me right in the face. I felt like a bowl of ice-water had been thrown on me. I was suddenly sick to my stomach as I continued to read the descriptors of what I, as a Christian, hold most sacred in my heart. As the author took liberties in describing the “Trinity” and offending the “God Head” with descriptions of God as a “large, jovial back women", the Holy Spirit as a “small Asian woman", and Jesus appears as "a Jewish man with a hippy flare".

I have been saddened that so many of my brothers and sisters have embraced this book – calling it a work of fiction and explaining it away by saying, that is the context that it should be read. I tell you, as Dogie and I travel and tell folks about Jesus we are constantly reminded of the misconceptions and false teachings so many churched and un-churched people that call themselves Christians cling to as “truth”. This book is full of subtleties that sound like truth, but are far from it. We don’t have to go out and commit some heinous crime to separate ourselves from God, all we have to do is take our focus off of Him and His Word and draw our beliefs from a book such as this with “good intentions”. I am reminded of 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil (NKJ).

As Dr. Albert Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, said, The Shack “contains undiluted heresy. Don’t you and I have a responsibility to be equipped to recognize heresy and to shine the light of truth so that we and others are not deceived?

Yes, I read the book completely through. It was a true struggle for me as a “Believer”, but at least I know what the book contains. No hear-say from this Gal. This book is nothing short of deception. It is also divisive. Beware of any group or church supporting the reading of this book. The Shack makes light work of the cross and the price Jesus paid for our sins.

Just so you know, my sweet daughter-in-law asked that I return her unopened book to the store where it was purchased, which I did. Praise God that He calls us to have discernment in such matters.

My Evil Twin

About a month ago I ordered one of those tools to help me in my attempts to make a banquet dress for those special occasions when we cowgirls get all gussied up in period correct clothing and make our grand entrance to the awards banquet at one of our larger matches. Those of you that know me, know I am not a seamstress, but I keep trying. There are so many patterns available now that would make awesome dresses. Something keeps pushing me forward in my attempts to actually do it.

As I thought about truly making a worthwhile attempt, the thought crossed my mind that a “dress form” would certainly be a worthwhile investment. Convinced of this, I discovered that my local fabric store not only carried them, but they were now on sale. I took this as another sign that I was heading in the right direction. The sales lady was sweet and helpful, and after taking my measurements we decided on the correct form to order. With great anticipation, I placed my order and waited.

Just a couple days ago, “SHE” arrived. Yes, SHE. She is supposed to be my “twin”. I carefully removed her from the carton with the help of Dogie. Wow, she looked good. I could see immediately in taking her measurements, that for her to match me, I’d need to do a “little” adjusting. This form is very well made and easily adjusted, so I proceeded to measure myself in all the key spots the instructions required and move the knobs accordingly. Oh my! This was an eye opener. After about 30 minutes of measuring and adjusting my now “evil twin” stood before me. Headless as she is, none the less, that was me. My first impulse was to screw her adjusting knobs back in a ways (a good ways), but that is not an option when the purpose was to have a form that matched me and aid me in making a garment that fits. Yes, I want it to be pretty, but for it to be pretty, it has to fit.

My schedule and commitments have been such that I have not had an opportunity to start my sewing, but as I have now had a few days to think about “my twin” and study how she really looks, I, of course, will be trying to lose those unwanted pounds. I really want to move those knobs in to a more pleasing size. It’s important that my temple be fit so I can achieve my best. But in addition to that, “SHE” made me start thinking about another aspect of my life. What do others see in me as they come to know me? Do they see a woman of faith, a loving wife, a caring grandma, someone they would like to spend time? I may have been forced to examine my physical body after making the adjustments to the dress form, but what about my spiritual body? I need examination there too. Am I really who I think I am and who the Lord would find pleasing in His sight? Do I have the right motive in my Christian walk? Do I put God’s will for my life upfront and foremost? Where do MY adjusting knobs need adjusting? And, being honest with myself, they certainly do. These are questions I will ask again and again. I can walk miles and miles down life’s paths, and miss His will for me by assuming I know the way. I cannot possibly know the way without seeking and studying in His Word for His direction for me. That, my friend, is a daily commitment. Never before have I realized how important a commitment of daily study is in His word.

It may have taken a dress form to remind me of what is important, but I am glad it opened my eyes to more than just dress size. It opened my eyes and revealed to me a huge responsibility I have as a Christian. As the song says and my prayer is - that when you’re looking at me you see mercy, when you’re looking at me you see grace, when you’re looking at me you see saved, for I’ve been saved by His mercy and grace. I want to be a whole and fit package for the person that means the most, Jesus. Only through Jesus Christ can we be saved and claim eternal life.

In the sweet name of Jesus, Amen

Happy Valentine's Day

I love Valentine’s Day. It’s one of my favorite days to celebrate. It brings back lots of happy memories. It’s not that my family of three did anything hugely special while I was growing up, but somehow my mother and daddy did remember the day and made sure it was filled with love. We didn’t just tell each other how much we loved one another, but I remember how we showed our love. As I grew older I realized that it wasn’t the cards and gifts that we sometimes shared, but it was a day to tell and show those close to me how much they really meant and how much I loved them. I remember the pretty little handmade cards that my baby boy would make and hand to Mommy waiting to see my smiles. But it was the hugs and spending time together that meant the most. Of course, my heart still melts just thinking of those Valentine Days long since passed. To this day my own sweet hubby continues surprising me year after year with gifts of thoughtfulness and lots of love. How he still does it, amazes me.
Now we have grandchildren of our own, and their mom and dad are carrying on the beautiful tradition of making it a special day to remember filled with love and happy moments. I pray you do the same. Tell your honey how much you love them. Don’t let this day pass without telling your loved ones and family how much they are loved. Valentine’s Day comes but once a year. Enjoy this beautiful day and be sure to give lots of hugs! Happy Valentine’s Day & Praises to God for His continuous love for us!

WE SAY GOODBYE TO AZLE PARKER (aka Don Seely)

What? Would you please repeat that? Oh Dear, not another cowboy. Those were the words I heard spoken as Dogie was on the phone with a friend and fellow cowboy shooter.
Shock hits first, and then a sadness that just hangs on washed over me. Although I didn’t know him well, I did know his wife and grandson. My thoughts went immediately to them and the pain they must be feeling at this moment.
I am so grieved to have to say goodbye to Azle Parker (aka Don Seely). Azle was only 55 years old, yet God reached down last Friday morning and called him into eternity. He will be sorely missed. Here was a take-charge kind of guy in our Game of Cowboy. I remember he was one of those guys that not only was a great R.O. and could run the timer without hesitation. He was also a good shooter too! Because of his love for shooting, he had shared this love with his wife and beloved grandson. They too are top shooters in their own right!
I pray for this family tonight in their hour of overwhelming grief at the loss of a dear husband, father, and Grandfather. I pray for strength for Sweet Beulah Land (Chris) and Justin as they grapple for understanding of God’s will. Give them Your peace, Lord. In Your Son’s precious name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Goodbye Cedar Creek Bill (aka Bill Winfrey Sr.)

It was only a week ago today we were all together at our favorite cowboy club. We had all prepared ourselves both physically and mentally for a very cold day of shooting. Dogie knows that shooting on cold days, even here in Texas, is usually not something I look forward in doing. But, a dear friend and lady shooter, and her husband, had driven a considerable distance to be at this shoot. I instantly wanted to be a participant and be with my friend. We both decided to “cowgirl up” and do our best. The posses were formed and the match began. There we were, 12 brave souls on our posse, braving the elements, and all at the same time laughing, teasing one another, and just plan fellowshipping.

The following morning, Sunday, the Lord’s Day, I dressed and prepared to attend our church service there at the range. Again, the morning was “cold and crisp” as it had been the day before. Again, I was leaning more to the decision to not shoot that day. I’d attend our church service, which is always a blessing for Dogie and I to attend, but also be a part of the service. I’ll make my decision after church and leave it up to the best decision maker ever, my Lord and Savior. It still sends chills over me as I recall last Sunday morning. We opened the door to the little building where we held services, the little building with a heater. Instantly, all had changed with the weather. During our time with the Lord, He had allowed the sun to come out and all was quickly becoming warm. The chill in the air was vanishing and I was excited that the temperatures were moving in favor of a great day for a cowboy match.

I quickly signed my name on one of the posses, and things were put into motion to get the safety meeting started and the cowboy match underway. Oh, I could just feel it deep down that this was going to be an even more special day. Again, I was blessed with 12 or so cowboys/gentlemen. I remember thinking, “This is going to be fun”. Several cowboys that had braved the day before had returned for the Sunday match. Here we were again all on the same posse for a second day in a row. One of those cowboys was Cedar Creek Bill. He was an older gentleman, with always an eagerness to get to the firing line. Last year when I had first met him, he never had much to say to me, but I had noticed more smiles from him and enjoyed more conversation in the last few months. He didn’t even seem to mind that I was always snapping pictures of our posse during shoots and he’d be a good sport and smile for me during recent matches. This day was even more enjoyable. He was more cooperative and I was able to snap some good shots of Bill and his grown son. I remember thinking of my own father and how much I still miss him. How much my dad would have enjoyed our game of Cowboy. Yes, I had been right, the day turned out glorious. One of those, “I’ll never-forget-days”.

There was only one thing Bill had said to me that expressed his disappointment while he was shooting on Sunday. He was not one of those “Go Fast Shooters”, his age had slowed him some, but Bill was accurate most of the time. He had been shooting well all day Sunday until the next to last stage. “A Miss!” Yes, he said softly to me, “There went my clean match”. I told him I was sorry, but there was always next time.

Well Bill, your next time came on Thursday afternoon when our Father in Heaven called you to eternity. God’s timing is perfect. That was your clean match day! We will miss you in the months and years to follow. You touched our lives with your grace, understanding, and willingness to be a helper in and out of season.

(Obituary from The Dallas Morning News)
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/obituaries/stories/DN-winfreyob_19met.ART.State.Edition1.4ed7939.html

Have a Blessed 2009!

How is it that the holidays fly by so quickly? Just about the time I acknowledge that Thanksgiving is nearly upon us, I usually think, “Here We Go”. This year was different for me. I can honestly say that I enjoyed Christmas-time and all the holidays this year. Instead of focusing on buying lots of presents, I made decorating our home and getting the tree up early a priority. I took great joy in baking goodies for my neighbors and for my family. Spending time with our children and grandchildren was at the top of my list! I can’t remember ever enjoying our tree and the decorations more. It was inspiring to look at the tree and read the story Jesus’ birth. Just to think of the real meaning of Christmas. Also, my thoughts turned to why we think of loved ones and friends more at this time of year than at any other time.

I discovered when I made some of those phone calls to friends I had not stayed in touch with that there was not one single friend that wasn’t truly excited to hear from me. How just hearing their voice again was so touching and warming inside. I loved how we could just pick up where we had left off years before. I hope you took the time to make some of those calls also; it’s still not too late.

So now all those days have passed, gone. No more holidays in front of me for now, but a brand new year before me. I’m grateful for the holidays that I enjoyed this year. I’m grateful for the friends and family that I reconnected with during those days and I’m determined to keep those ties. I’m finally learning that it is relationships that really count in life. Sadly, it takes us far too many years to learn that lesson.

Yes, yes, I’ve certainly made some promises (resolutions) to myself of things I would like to accomplish in 2009, but most of all I want folks to see in me His reflection. If it is His will, then I ask that He give me the time and energy to be about His assignments for 2009. He’s already given me the JOY!

Have a blessed 2009!