Our Next Journal Question - First Kiss

What do you remember about your first kiss?  Ewe...not sure I wanna' go there.  Oh well, why not?  It was just two weeks shy of my turning 16.  No, I wasn't sweet 16 and never been kissed.  That was my goal but peer pressure got the best of me.  My friends all told me that my boyfriend at the time wanted to kiss me but wasn't sure I'd let him.  Sure wish I'd said no.  Not because I wanted to be sweet 16 and never been kissed, though that was something I thought was important at the time.  No, it was because he had braces. Ugh, I can still feel that sloppy, hard kiss.  It was ... ewe... that's all I can say about that. 

I thank God that Keith didn't have braces when I knew him!  He made my heart melt with the first kiss and the last one, well, none of your business!

How about you?  Do you remember?

Our Next Journal Question - First Date

When was your first date?  Tell me about it.  Actually I don't remember my first date.  I do remember it was with Art S.  I don't remember if he took me to a symphony concert maybe?  I was 15, almost 16, lacking two weeks.  Most of my dates were in a group.  I spent lots of time with friends when I was 15, 16, 17.  I had a couple boyfriends: Art, John, and then Craig in High School.

What was your first date?

Journal Question - Grade School Fads

Our next journal question is "What fads do you remember from grade school?"  That's easy...elephant pants and platform shoes!  I found these pictures on googles images...and yes, I actually wore something similar to these.  The pants were just as hard to walk in as the shoes and are probably the reason for my funny walk!

Happy Birthday, David

Our brother has turned 49.  It's his turn to be interviewed. Here you can learn something about him that maybe you didn't know.

What's your favorite food? cube steak, scalloped potatoes

What are your goals for your family? To move out of Comstock. We've lived here for 25 years. We'd like to move to South Glenns Falls but we need to sell our house first. No interest so far.

Who’s your hero? No one.

What will you do for your birthday? Nothing, split wood with wood spliter. Going out to eat on Friday.

How will this year be different from last year? Quieter, all girls have moved out.

What are you craving? Something to do.

Do you have a quote that you use all the time? “Bite me”

What are you wearing right now? Gray T-shirt and jeans.



See the glow?



That's David! My prayer for David is that he would grow in the knowledge of God.  That he would experience God's favor this year in unexpected ways.  That his light would shine to those around him and they would see God's love glowing from him.



Love you, David

Journal Question - Extracurricular Activities

What were the extra activities you participated in while in school?  I only remember Missionettes and Christ Ambassadors at church and band and orchestra in school.  I also played the piano a lot.  I remember going to Kathy's many times and just having fun together.  In High School we had parties at my friends houses and once at our house.  I wasn't in a lot of things because it either wasn't available or I'd have to walk if it was! Actually I wasn't interested in much except music.  How about you?

Happy Birthday, Sue

When I called Sue today she said, "I was just thinking that it was going to be my turn for an interview soon!"  You are right, Sue.  We had a nice talk today.  It was fun getting to know a little more about my 'baby' sister. 

What's your favorite food? Turkey dinner with dessert...TCBY yogurt, yummy.  Sue looooovvvess dessert.

What are your goals for your family? For all to be serving God.  That God would move in their hearts so they will be right with with God. Our goals for our home life are more work on the house like fixing up the girl's rooms to fit their personalities.


What will you do for your birthday?  Go to Ryan's buffet restaurant.  We are celebrating some today as well. Landon is going to buy her a flower and the girls made her glass bead necklaces.

How will this year be different from last year? Home schooling Landon at age 4! We will probably be traveling with Joe if he goes for training again. Sue will be her Pastor's 'sort-of' secretary, answering his phone calls, and she might play more music. She has the desire to help a little more at the church.

What are you craving? Brazil nuts and sunflower seeds (salty).  She never knew she liked Brazil nuts until they moved to Louisiana.  It was interesting for her to read the girls book about Louisiana as she got to know the cities and loves the fact that they have flowers year round.  "They plant flowers in Winter..this is weird."  Bushes grow flowers in the Spring and it's really pretty.

Do you have a quote that you use all the time? "Are you ready Freddy?" "bright and early"

What are you wearing right now? Blue capris and pink flowery shirt.  "I go for comfort!"

My prayer for Sue is Ephesians 1:17 and 18 that God will give Sue spiritual wisdom and insight so that she might grow in the knowledge of God.  I pray that her heart will be flooded with light so that she can understand the confident hope God has given her in His love. May Sue feel and know God's love as she goes about on her birthday.

Journal Question - Favorite Teacher

Who was your favorite teacher and why?  I didn't like school so I don't remember any favorites really.  Oh wait, I did like my French teacher because he made the class fun and didn't pick on me.  My favorite piano teacher was Mrs. Kantorski, in Bowling Green because she was an excellent pianist and knew how to teach.  I loved her demonstration and then copy me method for technic.  I tried to emulate her even now.  Who was your favorite?

Journal Question - Early Prayers

Our next journal question is what do you remember about your early prayers?

I remember learning in Sunday School to pray to Jesus.  That was wrong teaching as Jesus told us to pray to the Father not to Him.  The Lord's Prayer is "Our Father which art in heaven..." not Dear Jesus.  He also said whatever you ask the Father in My name... 

I remember praying every night that my sins would be forgiven and feeling really scared that if I didn't I'd go to hell. Another wrong teaching.  Paul said in Hebrews that Jesus took away our sins so we should have no more consciousness of sin.  John said in 1 John that if we do sin, all we have to do is ask forgiveness and we are immediately restored to righteousness.  He also said that we don't practice sin so we aren't "sinners". Holy Spirit is faithful to do His job if we mess up and let us know.  We need to be listening to hear Him and repeat immediately.  If we keep short accounts with the Holy Spirit, we don't need to be afraid of forgetting to ask His forgiveness.

I'm not saying everything they taught was wrong; these are just what sticks out in my mind when thinking about early prayers.  At least we were taught to pray about everything and seek God while we were young.  We were also taught to seek more of God in receiving the Holy Spirit.  Salvation wasn't the end of our relationship with God but just the beginning.  There is so much more to learn and receive from Him.

Happy Birthday, Cindy

This is all Chris' fault!  Press the play button.

Happy Birthday, Chris - A Late Interview

Happy 50th Chris!

What's your favorite food? Pork chops and baked patotoes.


What are your goals for you and Steve? To find a home. To find Steve a job he enjoys. To see what God has for my life. To be a blessing to others.


What are your goals for your business? To maintain and increase customers. To be a blessing to those that come in for help.


What did you do for your birthday?  It was Sunday so I rested and enjoyed family

How will this year be different from last year? This is my year of Jubilee. So I expect to receive blessings that God has set aside for this year.


What are you craving? Nothing because I get what ever I want at the time I want it.


Do you have a quote that you use all the time? God is good.

What are you wearing right now? Peach shirt, socks, jeans, sneakers, barrett, glasses, and rings.

My prayer for Chris is that her new home, wherever it may be, would be built by wisdom and be strong through good sense.  Through knowledge may all its rooms be filled with all sorts of precious riches and valuables. (Pr. 24:3, 4)  I pray that this year of jubilee for Chris would be filled with wise words and her thoughts filled with godly insight. (Ps. 49:23) Chris will say according to Ps. 40:16 "may all who search for God be filled with joy and gladness in Him. May those who love His salvation repeatedly shout, “The Lord is great!”"
 
In Jesus Name,
 

Journal Question - Special Calling

Did you ever feel that God had a special calling on your life?  I've always known from the time I was an early teen that I would be involved in music some way.  It wasn't until I was married that it became clear that piano teaching was my gifting.  This year will be my 25th year and I have taught 174 students so far.  The first person I helped at piano said that I was very patient.  I think that is still true today, though I do get more frustrated lately with students when they don't practice.

I'm also very into computers and have been since 1984 when I started taking classes at the local college.  It has played a big role in my piano teaching and I have become known in my area as the piano teacher with technology.  My motto is "making learning music fun using current technology".  What's the point in having all this cool stuff if I can't use it in my everyday work and play! :)

Ocala Shopping

When I was in Ocala for Dad and Rosemary's wedding, I went shopping!  I went to the Town Square and walked around a little...a very little as it was soooo hot outside.  I enjoyed going into the air conditioned stores.  I went to home decor type stores like Shannon Roth, Tres Chic, and Olivia & Company.  When I go back in the WINTER, I'll look forward to visiting these shops again as they had nice items at reasonable prices.

I also visited the Gift Shop at the Cultural Alliance Center.  I bought some note cards there with buildings of Ocala.

I wanted to go to the Veranda Gallery & Tea Room but that will have to wait until I have someone to go with.

It was a nice shopping trip but would have been more fun with someone.  We could have complained together about how hot it is in Florida in August.

Dad!  What were you thinking!

The Honeymoon Trip

Dad and Rosemary started their honeymoon trip by driving a couple days to Cleveland, Ohio and then coming to see us for a couple days.  We took them to Bemus Point where we ate dinner at the Surf Club and then went shopping and took pictures across the road at the lake.  It poured as we were in the restaurant but let up when we were ready to go.

Dad and Rosemary in Bemus Point

We spent Friday driving around the lake and stopping at shops to look for a plastic Chautauqua mug which we did not find.  However, we did find a house where Rosemary remembered staying during the summer.  Friday evening I invited my Leecroft, Rose, and Elise Clarke over for dinner with us as they are from Jamaica.  Dad and Rosemary want to go on a missions trip to Jamaica.  After a good night's sleep, the newly married couple left for their Canadian tour. 

Good Friends

"Good friends want to know what makes our hearts slow down, speed up, or even skip a beat."  William & Patricia Coleman in Because We're Friends 100 Things I Love About You.

Do you have any "good" friends?  I do.  Several in fact.  I appreciate each one when they take time to ask me "what's new with you?" or "is everything ok?" I'm thankful for my friends that God has placed in my life.  Each one of them gives my life more interest, excitement, and love.

So what's up with you, my family?  What is causing your heart to slow down, speed up, or skip a beat today?  I'd like to hear from you.  Email? Phone? Letter in the mail? Facebook?  We have many ways to communicate.  Sure would be nice to hear from you today.

Journal Question - First Job

Our next journal question is...What was your first job?

Mine was babysitting for the McLaughlin's.  They were neighbors who lived in the trailer court across the street.  There were three active girls.  I hated it but liked the money.  I eventually quit and let Chris do it when I was 15 or 16.  I really didn't like having to entertain them for so many hours. 

Do you remember your first job?

Journal Question - Chores

This week's journal question is: What chores did you do as a child and did you get an allowance for doing them?  Dishes, dishes, and more dishes.  I either had to wash or dry and Chris did the opposite!  Allowance!  You've got to be kidding.  I was happy to have food and clothes.  We were supposed to clean our room and make our beds too; however, I some how got away with a very messy room.  My home is very clean now but you would never have known that I would keep a clean house from my childhood room!

Journal Question - Favorite Meal

What was your favorite meal as a child?  I remember eating a lot of spaghetti and mac and cheese.  I guess my absolute favorite was spaghetti.  I especially liked Grandma's recipe.  She used a special packette of spices and it always turned out great. 

Journal Question - Scent or Sound

What scent or sound makes you think of your childhood?  I can't think of a scent but maybe one of your memories will prompt mine.  However, whenever I hear lots of children playing that reminds me of our home growing up.  It was always noisy.  There were a lot of us running around and playing something.  What do you remember?

Happy Birthday Mike!

What's your favorite food?  Steak, prime rib
What are your goals for your family?  Spend more time together, enjoying life.
What are your goals for your business? Get some.  Stay busy and make a decent living.
What are you doing for your birthday? Picnic at private spot on Lake George at Shelving Rock on a trail.  
How will this year be different from last year? One less child in the house.
What are you craving? Was steak but we finally got one.  I’m craving getting away from the house and going on vacation with my family.  Maybe to visit Sandy’s family in NC.
Do you have a quote that you use all the time?  No.  I make up stuff all the time.
What are you wearing right now? Jeans and T-shirt.
My prayer for Mike is Romans 5:3-5 “Father, may Mike be be full of joy now! Let him exult and triumph in his troubles and rejoice in his sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance. And endurance develops maturity of character (approved faith and tried integrity). And character of this sort produces the habit of joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation. Such hope never disappoints or deludes or shames us, for God's love has been poured out in Mike’s heart through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to him.

Happy Birthday, Steve

I just interviewed Steve for his birthday.  Here's what little brother has to say.

What's your favorite food?  boneless wings


Who's your hero?  Dad.  He lives by the Word and believes it to the fullest.

What are your goals for your family?  Moving to new home this year, at end of Summer. Spiritually, everyone is right one track, heading the right direction.  Steve then quoted his verse that his family lives by, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

What are your goals for your business? Whatever God has for it, whether is goes or blows I'm going to follow the leading of God.
What are you doing for your birthday? Nothing special.  Sleep a little longer.

What's your life verse? A three-fold cord is not quickly broken, speaks of unity in my home.
What is the biggest blessing in your life right now? Watching my teenagers go after God with all their hearts at the Albany worship revival.

How will this year be different from last year? Won't have to live in a garage anymore.

What are you craving? A good night's sleep.

Do you have a quote that you use all the time? "Que pasa? What's up? What's happening?"

What are you wearing right now? Nothing! Just kidding.  Jeans and white polo shirt.

My prayer for Steve is that He would experience the goodness of God in all areas of His life, spiritually, physically, emotionally, and in his relationships with wife, children, brothers, sisters, and parents.  I pray Steve would be filled with the love of God so much that it overflows and splashes onto everyone around him.

Uncle Al Goes Home

Alfred L. Chaney 1929-2010 - We will miss him.


HOWLAND -Alfred L. Chaney, 81, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, May 27, 2010, at The Ridge at Shawnee in Lima.

Alfred was born in Warren on March 21, 1929, the son of Frank A. and Matty (Brown) Chaney. He had lived in Newton Falls for 72 years before moving to Howland 9 years ago.

Alfred was a draftsman with Wean Industries for 23 years retiring in 1982. He became a real estate agent for Century 21, where he worked from 1983 to 1999, and owned a Century 21 office in Warren prior to its consolidation.

Alfred married the love of his life, the former Dorothy E. Winger, on Feb. 19, 1954. They were married a wonderful 48 years before her passing on Sept. 2, 2002.

Alfred was a U.S. Army veteran from 1951 to 1952 serving during the Korean War, and continued his service in the Army Reserves until 1956. He was a member of Newton Falls United Methodist Church. He was also a member of the Newton Falls Masonic Lodge 462 since 1963, and he was a Newton Falls city councilman for eight years. Alfred loved bowling, golfing and Ohio State football.

Memories of Alfred will be carried on by his two sons, Dr. Michael A. Chaney and his wife, Rae of Pittsburgh, and Dr. Patrick A. Chaney and his wife, Lisa of Lima; and seven grandchildren, Brent, Grant, Blake, Addison, Katilyn, Morgan and Lauren.

Alfred was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Dorothy; and two sisters, Mildred Lesniak and Martina Thoney.

The family will receive friends at the James Funeral Home in Newton Falls from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., where a Masonic service will be held at 5:30 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Newton Falls United Methodist Church. The Rev. Gordon Ferguson will be officiating the service.
Alfred will be laid to rest next to his wife, Dorothy, at Newton Falls Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to James Funeral Home, 8 E. Broad St., Newton Falls, Ohio 44444, 330-872-5440.

Journal Question – When did you become a Christian?

Mom doesn’t have an answer in her book.  I know she was young though.

I was 16 when I made a decision to make Jesus Lord of my life.  I remember that I always had a heart for God from early years but 16 was when I made the decision on my own that God was for me.  It was also the year I was baptized in water and in the Holy Spirit.  I remember being in Hoosick Falls at a youth rally and sitting up on the left side because I was playing my saxophone in the orchestra.  It was October.  I don’t remember the message or who was preaching.  I just remember that was my new birthday.

When is your Christian birthday?

Who is this lady who has stolen Dad's heart? Find out here in my interview with Rosemary.

When were you born? May 25, 1938 on a farm in Ontario Canada. Her grandmother was a midwife and weighed her on a chicken scale. She was talking before she had teeth.

What do you want us to call you? Most people call her Rosemary.

How did you meet Dad? Rosemary volunteers for a lot of groups at church. She was in charge of who gets on the bus for the trip to the Passion Play in Hudson, FL, on March 25. There were seven people missing from her list at the meeting place. Dad and six others were already on the bus and refused to get off. Dad was sitting in Rosemary's seat behind the bus driver, so Rosemary sat behind him and they talked all the way. After the trip, Dad said see you Sunday. They met at the coffee connection and went to church together. And that started the friendship. Dad asked if he could call her every night and if he could pray with her. Her thought was, "he isn't real," though she did trust him from the first day. Their next date was a Jewish Sader.

How long were you married before Dad? The first marriage was to Tony for 17 years and the second was to Bill for 26 years, both husbands passed to the next life.

How many children and grandchildren do you have? Three from my first marriage: two boys and a girl. Steve is 50 and works for the Tampa Airport; Glenn is 45 and a retired trucker and carpenter; and Charmaine is 44, artistic and musically inclined and working for a cleaning company's office. Rosemary also has a step-daughter, Janet who lives in Niagara Falls and a foster daughter, Marilyn. She has raised 98 foster children. She has seven grandchildren. Steve has two children: Adam is 28 and works as a tiler, and Amanda is a hotel event planner. Glenn has two children: Anthony, 25, works for Microsoft in Washington State and is getting married in January to a Mexican girl; Shawn, 23, is studying to be a pastor and getting married July 10th in Iowa. Charmaine has three kids: Danessa is in college for engineering, Preston is 14 Ocala, and Lawrence is 8.

Did you work outside the home? Yes at a hospital in St. Petersburg as a nurses' aid, switchboard operator, and supervisor until she transferred to Ocala. She is also involved with Home Interiors as a home decorator. Rosemary loves housework. I'm thinking maybe Dad and Rosemary should travel to Lakewood, NY about once every three months so she can clean my house! She doesn't sit still much.

How do you spend your days now? Tuesday and Thursday she volunteers at church.

What is your favorite color? Pink

What color is your wedding dress? Seafoam green, it was given to her by a friend of her mothers (new).

What is your favorite food? Spinach and Asparagus

Do you wear perfume? Yes, Oscar de la Rente, she is allergic to most.

What is your favorite flower? Lily of the Valley

Do you have a favorite song? Not really. She likes Because God Made Thee Mine, No One Ever Cared For Me Like Jesus, Open My Eyes, Lord, It Is Well. She also likes opera and musicals but can't read music.

Do you do crafts? No, but she does like scrapbooking and journaling.

What is your favorite Bible verse? Be still and know I'm God.

What is your vision for marriage with Dad? We will clean/volunteer together and go on mission trips to Jamaica and maybe India. The mission in India has 500 orphans; and Dad would love to see the orphans he supports. The orphanage in Jamaica is outside of Kingston.

Where are you going on your honeymoon trip? London, Niagara Falls, and Toronto, Canada, Buffalo and Lakewood, NY before spending two weeks in Hudson Falls. They have to be back in FL by September. She has a brother, Monte, who lives in Ottawa Canada.

In my conversations with Rosemary, I picked up from her talking that she is organized, hates computers, is a giver and doesn't like being alone. She is very sensitive and a Toronto Maple Leaf hockey fan. Oh, and I just found out that Rosemary and Dad are going to take a computer class at church in January so there is hope yet that we can communicate via the internet!

Welcome Rosemary. She will be a fun addition to this family. I've enjoyed talking with her and I know you will too.

Robison Angel

An angel has come to visit the Robison residence and keep it safe from all intruders.  Great Mother's Day gift Glenn!  I'm looking forward to seeing it in person soon.

Journal Question - Special Memories

This one might take a little more time than previous questions.  However, I think it will be worth it.

List one special or fun memory you have for each of your brothers and sisters.  Here are mine.

Chris - She taught me how to play her instruments.
David - He called to talk to me! 
Sue - Clowning around in the family room making Chris and I laugh really hard.
Jim - Comforting me during Mom's departure.
Mike - Asked me to play piano for his wedding.
Steve - Camping in pop-up trailer. Steve was about three and wanted to sleep with me not Mom!  I felt very special to be chosen by him.

Journal Question - Grandparent's house

This week's journal question is:

Describe your grandparents' houses. Did you visit them often? Boy did I ever! I remember being at Grandma's all the times. I would walk home the long way just to stop by and see her and Aunt Linda. I was always wanting to spend the night at Grandma's. I didn't even mind sleeping on the couch. It was so peaceful there. The house was built by Grandpa Brown. It had a kitchen that opened to the dining room that opened to the living room and then a front porch. Off the kitchen was a small hallway that had the bathroom and two bedrooms and stairs up. Upstairs, which were very steep, were two bedrooms and another bathroom. The basement stairs were just inside the back door. I have lots of nice memories of Grandma Brown's house. I don't remember visiting Grandpa Hodges but one time.

Uncle Dan and Aunt Sharon live in Grandma's house now. They have made it beautiful. It is a show place that should be in a magazine. Aunt Sharon has a knack for decorating and making people feel at home in it. It is absolutely beautiful now.

Journal Question - Childhood Home

Did you enjoy living at 31 Tenth Avenue? I still remember living in the little house before Dad added the two-story addition. It was small but we didn't notice as we were small too! I shared a room with Chris and Sue; we each had our own twin beds. I don't remember dressers, do you? or a closet? We all shared one bathroom and seemed to do okay. I remember doing dishes in the corner sink. Eating at the long picnic table. We played outside mostly. Oh yeah, the big upright piano was in the main room next to the table. I remember when Mike and Steve came home from the hospital and Mom set up the basinet in front of her bedroom door.

I really didn't like the neighborhood though as I didn't like the kids on the block; they were mean. I did my best to escape from there by going to Grandma's or to friends.

The house changed over the years...and is still changing, right Mike! It is still home and I'm glad Mike has made it his own too.

Journal Question - Prayer

What kind of prayer did you say before you went to sleep? Who taught you how to pray it?

I remember praying "Now I lay me down to sleep. I pray the Lord my soul to keep. And if I die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take." Not a very nice prayer for a child to think about now that I look back on it. What do you mean, if I die before I wake!! I don't remember who taught that to me.

I then remember having to pray every night before I slept that God would forgive any sins I had committed that day, whether I had done them on purpose or not. I think chuch religion taught me that.

Then I read in Hebrews that we should not have a sin consciousness but a righteous consciousness. I'm not practicing sin because I'm not a sinner. If I sin, the Holy Spirit is there to immediately tell me about it and (if I'm thinking straight!) I immediately confess it and get back into right standing with God.

I'm probably gonna shock someone, but there are days that go by that I don't sin. AAAHHHHRRGGG! how can you say that!? Because I'm practicing love just like Jesus did. No, I'm not perfect and, yes there are days that I do miss the love mark. However, for the most part I'm thinking about how to please God and that keeps me righteous. I know some will say there is none righteous, but they are stuck in the Old Testament because in the New Testament it says that Jesus became sin with my sin so that I could become righteous with His righteousness. So now because of the great exchange that Jesus made I have a righteousness conscious.

Now I pray before sleeping that God will teach me in the night and sing to me. It's very peaceful.

Gratitude

I received a card in the mail from a satisfied customer today and it blessed me so much that I had to share it here. I have received thanks before by phone calls or emails but never by a card with an extra tip included!  It made me cry.  I have been feeling such a heaviness in my spirit lately and this lifted me way up. 

“What’s the big deal?  It’s just a card.”  You might say that.  But it IS a big deal today because 99% of the people I know never say thank you for anything.  If people aren’t able to express thanks to humans, how can they express it to a loving heavenly Father?  Is it really that hard to appreciate what other people do for us?  Or do we just expect it as due to us?  Two little words that are so hard for people to say…“thank you”.

This card immediately caused me to want to do something else for this customer.  I wonder if that’s how God feels?  When we are grateful and express it to Him, does it make Him feel like doing more for us?  I think so. 

I’m saying here on my blogs “thank you” for being my friends, for reading my thoughts and not criticizing me, to customers – again thank you for allowing me to help you redecorate your home or for purchasing a gift from me.  I do pray for each of you that God’s light will shine through the items you’ve purchase and you’ll know His love today.

Thank you!

Sing Psalms Silas

I’ve had a very rough week emotionally.  I’m sure some of you have been feeling a little emotional as well.  Maybe not bawling like me, but still feeling sad.  Chris encouraged me to sing, Silas, sing and reminded me of the tape I recently found of Mom singing the Psalms.  So here it is, about 20 minutes of Psalms by Mom.  Just click on the text below and it should load.  It is about 17Mb.  I’m not sure where it will play.  Depends on what mp3 player you have on your computer…media player, quick time?

Mom Sings Psalms

Our Next Journal Question – How do you think Mom spent her day?

Mom didn’t write anything about how her mom spent her days in her journal.  How do you think our mom spent her days?

I know when I was growing up she was busy cleaning and cooking and taking care of anything Dad needed.  Later in life it is obvious because of her journals that she spent lots of time in the Word and prayer as well.

I spend my days with housework as well and taking care of Keith’s needs.  I also teach and plan piano lessons, practice for worship at church, make lots of crafts and spend way too much time on Facebook!

What do you remember Mom doing?  What do you spend your days doing?

Technorati Tags: housework,crafts,facebook,piano

Another Journal Question

Where did your father go to work every day and what did he do?  Write about what you remember Dad doing.  I remember him leaving early in the morning and getting home around 3:30, just about when we got home from school.  He worked at GE in maintenance while I was younger.  I remember taking lunch to him with Mom.  I also remember him doing electrical work on the weekends and getting to help him by splicing and pulling wires.  He was always working on something.  What do you remember?

Our Next Journal Question

What are your earliest memories of church? I remember standing up in front singing a solo with Mom at the piano at Hoosick Falls church.  I don’t remember what I sang but I know I was five.  I also remember sitting in the front pew with the pastor’s son and he was talking with me.  We got a scolding afterwards by the Pastor and Mom said I couldn’t sit with him anymore.  It was my fault! I couldn’t be rude and not respond to his son but I couldn’t be rude to the pastor and talk!  Not fair!  It was a good thing to have to sit with Mom and Dad.  I remember Sunday School at Gospel Lighthouse in the basement.  I remember sleeping under the pews many nights as we were always in church for every meeting.

What do you remember?

Time to Laugh

A young child walked up to her mother and stared at her hair. As her mother scrubbed the dishes, the girl cleared her throat and asked, "Why do you have some gray hairs?"
The mother paused and looked at her daughter. "Every time you disobey, I get a strand of gray hair."
The mother returned to her task of washing dishes. The little girl stood there, thinking. She cleared her throat again. "Mom?" she said.
"Yes?" her mother answered.
"Why is Grandma's hair all gray?"

Take time to laugh today.

Interview with Dad

Happy Birthday, Dad!

So did you know this about Dad?

What's your favorite food? Dad likes a lot of different meats but he would order steak at a restaurant and loves asparagus. He would have cake and small scoop of vanilla fudge ice cream for dessert.

Who's your hero? Jesus. Guess we all knew that.

What are your prayers for your family? Dad prays that the Lord would meet our needs, bless us, and help us to follow after Him with all our heart, soul, and mind.

What are your goals for your spiritual life? Dad wants to continue to grow and see God do things in his life that only He can do.

What's your life verse? Don’t have one, they change on the day, hour, time. Right now it’s 2 Cor. 9:8 AMP “And my God is able to make all grace, every favor and earthly blessing, come to you in abundance so that you always, under all circumstances, and whatever the need, are self-sufficient, possessing enough to require no aid or support, and are furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation.

What is the biggest blessing in your life right now? Being in Florida in my T-shirt and sunshine.
What are you craving? nothing

Do you have a quote that you use all the time? Not worth two rows of beans

What are you wearing right now? Beige T-short, jeans

What’s your favorite color? I like my blue truck. Don’t like pea green.

What’s favorite hymn? It Is Well

What’s favorite chorus? Mom’s chorus Sing Forth the Praise

So were there any surprises for you? Or did you know Dad's answers? Remember to call him and wish him a happy day!

Dad went to the seniors Valentines party on Thursday in Ocala. It was called Heart to Heart. The pastor's wife read verses about the heart and they played a game. On a sheet of paper they had to write names that start with an H, an E, an A, an R, and a T. They all did it for US cities and animals names. If someone didn’t have same thing written down that you did, you got a gift. Then they asked who had a birthday coming up, so Dad had Happy Birthday sung to him. He is really enjoying his new church family of about 5,000! What he really enjoys is hearing the anointed worship and word each week.

Journal Question - Childhood Bedroom

Describe your childhood bedroom. What was the view from the window?

The first room I remember was shared with Chris and Sue. We each had our own twin bed. There was a closet and a dresser but that's about all I remember from it. It is now part of Mikes' family room. The second and last bedroom was upstairs and is now Mike's. I think it was pink but don't really remember. I had an unfinished closet. There were three windows. The view was of the backyard and the Stark's house. I would often look out the window and see Mr. Mondou watering his garden. Eventually I had to share my room with Suzi but she wasn't a problem. I was the messy one. I got a radio for Christmas one year and remember playing it on Sunday mornings. I practiced my saxophone and did my homework on the double bed. Oh yeah, I think I played with Barbies in that room too.

What do you remember about your room?

1959

I found another old picture dated 1959. It shows Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Tom, Aunt Linda, Uncle Dan, Dad, Mom and Me at Notre Dame Street house. Of course, I was just born so they had to take a picture! I think I have the most comfortable spot and the baldest head! Actually I had blonde hair which didn't show in the picture.

Uncle Tom is hiding behind Aunt Linda. I wonder who took the picture?

Can You See Yourself

As I was looking at this photo and scanning it, I could see myself and Jimmy! Do you see yourself in Mom?

She was a pretty lady! We are blessed with her good looks! LOL

Still Miss You Mom

Woke up with the song God Will Take Care of You on my mind. And then I remembered what day it was. One year ago today Mom moved to heaven and now God is still taking care of her and us. I still want to pick up the phone and call her and talk about all that is happening in my life and find out the family news from her. She was my connection to everyone. How appropriate that she left on Ground Hogs Day. It's a day when we look to see how much longer until the sun comes out! We are still looking to see when the Son will come back to shine in our lives. Will He be another six weeks, six years, or six hundred? Maybe six seconds. I don't know but I do know we are looking with expectation towards the day He comes back and brings Mom with him.

Love you Mom.

Nicknames

Our next journal question is: Who gave you your name and why? Did you have a family nickname? How did you get it? Mom doesn't have an answer so maybe someone knows what Mom's nickname was.

My nickname from Mom was Cyn. I'm not sure how I got it but I'm glad she was the only one who called me that! Imagine being referred to as "sin" by your mother. Of course, the gossips in the church tried to start a rumor that I was illegitimate because my birthday was two days after their wedding day. They conveniently left out a whole year, but maybe she nicknamed me that to spite the gossips.

Let's see if I can remember your nicknames now. Correct me if I'm wrong:
Chris - Tina
David- Jake
Sue - ?
Jim - ?
Mike - ?
Steve - Reemer

Favorite Pastimes

What was your favorite pastime as a child? Not sure I remember when I was a child! I remember playing piano a lot. In fact, that is probably what my favorite pastime was! I was always at the piano by myself because no one else wanted to play or because I was hogging the piano. It would have been fun to play duets with Mom, but she was too busy with the rest of you and the house. So it's all your fault that I didn't get to share my favorite pastime! Just kidding. I still enjoy playing piano and teaching it to children. There's something special about being able to express yourself at the piano. I played when I was sad, angry, happy...all my emotions got played through the piano. Well, almost all. Except the ones when I was whipping David. The piano would have been distroyed. lol

What was your favorite? Mom didn't write anything down.

Interview with Jim

I just had a very nice conversation with my pesky brother. When I first heard his voice, he sounded a little down; but after we talked more I know he is very strong in the Lord. Happy Birthday, Jim!

So here's the interview with Jim.

What's your favorite food? chicken and biscuits, yum!

Who's your hero? Dad. Jim admires Dad's work ethic, how he works and still has joy in all circumstances. It's about attitude, I think.

What are your goals for your family? Jim wants to be financially free and enjoy his family.

What are your goals for your business? He'd like to get more into general contracting, doing whole house not just framing. He'd also like to work less and hire more, which means having more work so he can accomplish this.

What are your goals for your spiritual life? Jim wants to draw closer to God and to do more for His kingdom finacially and in helping others by sharing gospel. "It will be all about God this year" Jim said.

What's your life verse? I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. "Without his strength I can do nothing."

What is the biggest blessing in your life right now? Having a healthy family.

How will this year be different from last year? By remembering what last year was about, how everything went away last year, this year will be a renewal.

What are you craving? "dinner that Steve is supposed to be bringing me tonight for birthday."

Do you have a quote that you use all the time? no. Katies says it's "get out of bed!"

What are you wearing right now? clothes! jeans and t-shirt.

My prayer for Jim is 2 Cor. 9:8-11 "And God will make all grace, every favor and earthly blessing, come to Jim in abundance, so that he may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient. He possesses enough to require no aid or support and is furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation. As it is written, Jim scatters abroad; He gives to the poor; His deeds of justice and goodness and kindness and benevolence will go on and endure forever! And God Who provides Jim's seed for sowing and bread for eating will also provide and multiply Jim's resources for sowing and increase the fruits of his righteousness so that he is enriched in all things and in every way, and can be generous, which will bring forth thanksgiving to God."

Love you, Jim!

What's your Favorite Vacation Spot?

Our next journal question is "what's your favorite vacation spot"? Mom didn't have an answer in her journal but I know she liked the ocean. She liked taking drives with Dad around her area too.

My favorite vacation spot is definitely Camden, Maine. We stay at Beloins right on the ocean. Click on the link here and you'll see a picture of where we stay. We have stayed in the fourth building (cabin) from the bottom for two years now and really enjoy it. We wake up with beautiful sunrises. Keith has taken lots of pictures of them for us to remember.

In fact, he has taken so many, it was hard to decide which one to post here!

It is a long drive, about 16 hours, but we get to see family in the middle of the drive so it is worth it.

Leave me a comment with what your favorite spot is and remember to write it in your journal for your children to read when you leave this planet.

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