Proverbial Pilgrimage

Labor Day at the Lake....

2011-09-09T20:34:00.003-04:00

Wow! It's a big one....right, Dad?

Finding Space Between.....

2011-08-10T16:07:00.003-04:00

I just read a blog from the Willow Creek Association (www.wcablog.com) by Hanna Koenig. It was about the space in between. She quoted from this book Daily Office by Pete Scazzero, which I have on my desk, but never take the time to read. I want to have space between all that I am doing so that I follow God's leading. I loved her list of what your space between may look like....

Finding 20 minutes to pray to talk to God, listen to God, and be with God.
Taking a walk on a break
Practicing being still in quiet moments
Reading the Bible - Psalm 119:114 "You're my place of quiet retreat; I wait for your word to renew me."

I like these simple ideas. I know that interrupting my day with them would change my life.

2011-08-09T07:41:00.002-04:00

“His purpose is in the process.”

Thought provoking---

Isn’t it great when you discover a new way to think about a familiar passage of scripture! I love those times! I experienced this a couple of weeks ago. I am still thinking about the lesson presented in a devotional written by Oswald Chambers in his daily devotional book “My Utmost for His Highest”. I hope you don’t think of this book as too hard to understand….please give it a chance. I had the book for years before I started reading it, and now it is one of my favorites.

I do a lot of thinking about God’s will, and God’s purpose for my life. This devotional especially spoke to me about the “journey” of my life and not necessarily each “destination”. The following is July 28 from My Utmost for His Highest……

“..Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and head across the lake to Bethsaida, while he sent the people home.” Mark 6:45

We tend to think that if Jesus Christ compels us to do something and we are obedient to Him, He will lead us to great success. We should never have the thought that our dreams of success are God’s purpose for us. In fact, His purpose may be exactly the opposite. We have the idea that God is leading us toward a particular end or a desired goal, but He is not. The question of whether or not we arrive at a particular goal is of little importance, and reaching it becomes merely an episode along the way. What we see as only the process of reaching a particular end, God sees as the goal itself.

What is my vision of God’s purpose for me? Whatever it may be, His purpose is for me to depend on Him and on His power now. If I can stay calm, faithful and unconfused while in the middle of the turmoil of life, the goal of the purpose of God is being accomplished in me. God is not working toward a particular finish—His purpose is the process itself. What He desires for me is that I see “Him walking on the sea” with no shore, no success, nor goal in sight, but simply having the absolute certainty that everything is all right because I see “Him walking on the sea” (6:49). It is the process, not the outcome that is glorifying to God.

God training is for now, not later. His purpose is for this very minute, not for some time in the future. We have nothing to do with what will follow our obedience, and we are wrong to concern ourselves with it. What people call preparation, God sees as the goal itself.

God’s purpose is to enable me to see that He can walk on the storms of my life right now. If we have a further goal in mind, we are not paying enough attention to the present time. However, if we realize that moment-by-moment obedience is the goal, then each moment as it comes is precious.

–Oswald Chambers

As I work toward a deadline on a project or as I work toward a particular goal, I now try to look at each step along the way to see what is God’s purpose right now, at this moment. “His purpose is in the process.”

Life is Good

2011-07-09T19:56:00.001-04:00

Yahweh Yireh - God my Provider

2011-04-14T07:28:00.015-04:00

When I think about God, the first thing I think about is what He does for me. Is that selfish?

As I meditated and pondered on the question "who is God to me?" Jehovah Jireh, my provider kept resonating in my mind. This name for God is found in Genesis 22:14. God provided a ram for Abraham when he was ready to sacrifice his son Isaac. "Abraham named the place Yahweh-Yireh (which means, "the LORD will provide"). To this day, people still use that name as a proverb: "On the mountain of the LORD it will be provided." Genesis 22:14

On the outside of the chapel at Northview there is a plaque that says "Christ our Provision", inside the chapel is an amazing stained glass window of Abraham receiving the sacrificial ram from God. It is a moving tribute to this scripture.

I am very blessed to have a wonderful earthly father. It is easy for me to understand God's love and provision because of my dad. My dad is a very honest man, he has modeled a life of discipline. When I was a child I was disciplined with love. My earthly father was a good provider. I feel extraordinarily blessed. My earthly father has made it easier for me to understand my heavenly Father. There are so many people who have not been so blessed.

A couple of weeks ago I read Romans 11:33-36 in my quiet time. I really embraced this because I was thinking about "who is God to me". I paraphrased it, here it is just as I wrote it in my journal that day...April 6, 2011...

It is impossible to understand His decisions and His ways... God's greatness in unimaginable. His riches, wisdom and knowledge are great. So great, that human minds can't understand His decisions and the way He moves. No one knows the thoughts of God. He doesn't go to anyone for advice. He doesn't owe anything to anybody. Everything exists through His power and because of His creation. All things are intended to give Him glory. And He is my Yahweh Yireh.

Hillsdale College

2011-04-05T15:44:00.016-04:00

Virtus tentamine gaudet....

(Latin is still alive at Hillsdale!)

Margaret is there...

Abe is there....

Grace was there....

Music building...

Majestic eagles....

For those who served in the Civil War....

Grace was very good natured about my picture taking!

Beautiful buildings!

Leesa and Grace...

Thomas is there....

"Strength Rejoices in the Challenge"

Leesa's Birthday........

2011-03-15T21:39:00.006-04:00

Table is set...ready for everyone!

Southern Living's strawberry pound cake. The glaze was a little thin! :) But it tasted very good.

A little birthday decor......

Ta-Dah....there she is.....the birthday girl! Love you Leesa!

Pillow Pets at Riley

2011-03-11T09:37:00.005-05:00

My sister works at Riley Children's Hospital. She was so excited to share this picture with me this morning. I asked her to be a guest blogger so that you could hear her excitement about Pillow Pets for Riley!

Yesterday while working my shift in the PCIU, there was some unexpected excitement through the halls of Riley Children's Hospital. I was preparing to receive a young child after having open heart surgery and one of my colleagues came into room and said "You will never guess who is downstairs!". She went on to tell me that Third Day was in our lobby singing Old McDonald Had a Farm. She went on to tell me there were "thousands (?)" of Pillow Pets and the families were in line waiting to get their "pet". "Can you believe what a neat thing to do for our kids?." Because of hearing about the Pillow Pet project from my sister Lynn, I was able to share with her that the children's ministry staff with the help of many others at her church and the inspiration of one of her Bible Study friends this project was starting to help Jacob get his Pillow Pets for Riley. (see Jan's story in a previous post Pillow Pets for Jacob) What a treat for me to get to share that Lynn's friend listened to God's call and got to work on what she could do to help Jake get his 1,000 pillow pets. A true example of faith in action. Yes, the Pillow Pets were a wonderful gift to children and families who are challenged by illness and hospitalization. However, it is also a huge encouragement to those of us who care for these children. I am so happy I knew a bit of the "back story" and could share with my friends that these where not only Pillow Pets...they were a token of God's Love...first from Jacob....and then from God's family. Thanks!

Thanks Leesa, for sharing this blessing! Pillow Pets are coming in to the church from everywhere! It is amazing...and hearing KLOVE radio talk about Jacob...and having everyone praying for Jacob. It is truly inspiring.

2011-03-08T19:39:00.006-05:00

When morning gilds the skies, my heart awakened cries:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Alike at work and prayer, to Jesus I repair:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

Does sadness fill my mind? A solace there I find:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Or fades my worldly bliss, my comfort still is this:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

In heaven's eternal bliss, the loveliest strain is this:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
The powers of darkness fear, when this sweet chant they hear:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

Be this while life is mine, my canticle divine:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Be this the eternal song, through all the ages long:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

When I was driving to work last week this song came to my mind. I can't tell you how long it had been since I had heard it.

"At like at work and prayer to Jesus I repair".......do I come to Jesus the same way when I approach my work as I do when I come to Him in prayer. And what about those times when a sadness comes over me that I can't explain or my worldly bliss just isn't very blissful...."a solace there I find"

May Jesus Christ be praised!

Valentine Table Settings.....

2011-02-07T19:55:00.007-05:00

Enjoy these beautiful table settings. For a real treat go to http://www.thelittleroundtable.com/ Lots of wonderful table settings. Amazing collection of vintage table cloths! Info on Fiesta colors...

Organizing my YARN...

2011-02-05T11:45:00.005-05:00

After purchasing a bit more yarn yesterday, I realized that I wanted a place to store and organize it. I found the little trunk and neat basket down in the basement. I used to use the little trunk at the other house in the family room, I put Grant's coloring books, etc in it. I haven't used it since we moved 4 years ago. I think I bought the basket at the Carmel Antique Mall or maybe at the flea market. It makes me so happy to use some things that I already have!

The yarn fits so nicely! The cotton yarn is in an open shoe box inside the trunk. I was so happy about the way the yarn fits in the basket. Formerly a wine basket, I think.

Here is the organized and finished storage. Now, I just have to keep it that way!

Fun with Yarn...

2011-02-05T11:33:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was a super day! I took my yarn down to Leesa's and look what I made. Leesa and I thought it was cute. Fanny really likes it, no problem getting a pose from this little doggie girl. (Chinese Crested Powder Puff)

Keeps Brown Sugar fresh......

2011-02-04T08:00:00.004-05:00

I don't think so....

I'm not grouchy. Leesa and I are going YARN shopping today!

Hold the phone....just googled....I was supposed to soak the sun in water before putting into the brown sugar. :)

Pillow Pets for Jacob....

2011-02-03T20:22:00.008-05:00

Our Tuesday at One group has been reading "Out Live Your Life" (You were made to make a difference) by Max Lucado. After reading the first two chapters Jan was already sharing something that God put on her heart.

Jacob McConahay is an amazing 6 year old who attends Northview. Jacob is battling cancer. You can read all about Jacob at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jacobmcconahay Jan was so touched when she read that Jacob wanted to give 1,000 pillow pets for the kids at Riley..."because sometimes Doctors say things that are scary that kids shouldn't have to hear.". Jan is determined to help Jacob's dream come true.

Our children's ministry had already began to collect Pillow Pets and were so excited when Jan came to them and offered to help in their endeavor. Today we made three boxes to collect Pillow Pets during the weekend services.

Here Julie and Jan are covering the boxes that Jan picked up at Costco. We were working in the church lobby....

We put the boxes up on the Info Center, it made a great work table!

Here is one of the finished boxes. We are praying that Jacob will get all of his Pillow Pets! (We also pray for Jacob's health and his family)

It is wonderful to be a part of our Tuesday at One group. These women inspire me to follow God.

There is a neat prayer at the end of chapter five:

"O Lord, I have been called to be part of a holy community. You did not call me in isolation but placed me in the body of Christ, along with every other believer in Jesus throughout the world in every age. Let us grow as a team, work as a team, worship as a team, weep, laugh, and live as a team. Grant me the wisdom and the strength to partner with you and with my brothers and sisters in Christ. For Jesus' sake and in His name I pray, amen."

Crochet Flowers

2011-02-01T12:54:00.003-05:00

Some finished flowers....what fun!

Crochet Flowers

2011-01-29T13:16:00.003-05:00

Aren't these adorable! I was looking for a pattern for crochet flowers and found these and a wonderful blog..... http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/crochet-flowers-and-leaves.html

I have already made one...need to practice a bit before I post!

How Can I be a good example and follow God at work?

2011-01-29T11:07:00.002-05:00

How can I be a good example and follow God at work? A question that I was praying about during my quiet time on Friday morning. My answer was so helpful and amazing that it prompted me to start up my blogging! :)

1. Live a life of love. (Eph. 5:12)

" Follow God's example in everything you do, because you are His dear children. Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave Himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to Him.

2. Don't give in to temptation to gossip or grumble. Look for a way out of conversations that are going downward. (1Cor. 10:12-13)

"If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure."

3. Be a good example. (1 Tim. 4:12b)

"Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity."

4. Think the right kind of thoughts. (Phil. 4: 8)

" And now dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise."

5. God is with me....always. Matt. 28:20b

"...and be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

I am so thankful for God's word! Wow! So practical...time for me to put it into practice.

Crafting Fun....Gift Tags...

2010-03-17T22:22:00.003-04:00

This is a project Leesa and I worked on a few weeks ago. These are packages of gift tags. We decided to go ahead and work on some Christmas gifts for next year. Each package has ten gift tags in it. We now have a Sizzix cutter. It is so much fun! It is great to start a project and complete it in one afternoon. We are trying to stock pile some gifty items.

A Vintage Christmas in 2009!

2010-01-09T17:59:00.010-05:00

Mom, Leesa and Grace

Note the vintage punch bowl! Also pixies behind them!

Leesa's Pistachio Pudding Dessert

Leesa, Dave and Paula

My kitchen counter tree with vintage ornaments. Messy counter!

It was so fun to host Christmas Day at our house this year! We wanted to recreate our 50's - 60's memories as much as possible. I love to collect vintage christmas decorations and tablecloths. I also used my vintage punch bowl...with orange sherbet punch! (remember that!)

Leesa made pistachio pudding...I'm not sure when that was popular, but we hadn't had it in years! Everyone loved it! I also made a Dream Whip Poke Cake. Grant took all of these pictures with his new camera. He did an amazing job! He's the new family photographer!

2009 Brickyard 400

2009-07-26T22:46:00.004-04:00

Great Day at the Brickyard! We are so tired, but had a wonderful time. The best weather ever. We sat high in the third turn, and had a cool breeze most of the afternoon.

Brickyard 2009 Military Memory

2009-07-26T22:17:00.004-04:00

Today we went to the 2009 Brickyard 400 here in Indy. I want to share with you a neat memory that we won't forget for a long time. I wish I was a good writer so that I could convey the beauty and encouragement of the scene that we saw today. This year our seats were across from the infield and we could see the people all sitting on the grass and watching the race. It caught my eye that a group of men in camo dress were walking together near the edge of the fence. What I saw next was much more interesting than the Nascar race. I saw people coming up to these military men to shake their hands. People were asking them to have their pictures taken with them. People were waving to them. I watched for quite a while. I thought back to days when people respected and honored those in the military. Maybe it's not so different today. It was really a wonderful sight. Young and old coming towards, or maybe just raising their hand in a gesture of thanks. I wish my photos were better, but wanted to share it with you.

Longaberger Dumpster Dive...

2009-07-24T21:46:00.003-04:00

This is just the best! I won't forget this day for a long time. It started out as sort of a mission of mercy. A friend of mine cleans houses with her friend, and her friend was under the weather. I offered to help her clean today. I was looking forward to spending time together and being able to bless her.

On the way to clean the house this morning I had the most wonderful drive. I would never have imagined that driving across 116th St. between Carmel and Fishers at 7:30 am on a Friday morning could be so beautiful and enjoyable! The flowers on the Carmel side are just amazing. I even saw a yellow finch perched in the tall heather-like purple flowers! As I crossed the river it was foggy and the sun was coming through the fog in rays. It was beautiful! What a gift!

I arrived a few minutes before my friend. People were moving out of the house we were cleaning and there was a dumpster in the driveway. So, of course, I had to peek in to see if there was anything of interest. JACKPOT! There was some Longaberger baskets in there! I have not been a fan of the baskets for decorating...but I love them for their utility. I have received some as gifts....but I don't think I ever purchased one.

We did check to make sure that this really was a throw-away dumpster and we dived to get these three baskets and two pyrex lidded casseroles. As a pyrex collector I was so excited...also they are in two of my favorite colors! I couldn't get my friend to take any of the baskets. I think she just wanted me to be blessed with them. Enjoying God's creation, working with and enjoying a dear friend, and getting a super treat!

It was a God-Smile to me.

The Royal Law....

2009-06-29T17:17:00.003-04:00

Found in scripture...."Love your neighbor as yourself." (James 2:8)

"but love your neighbor as yourself." (Lev. 19:18)

"Love your neighbor as yourself." (Mark 12:31)

"Love your neighbor as yourself." (Gal. 5:14)

"and Love your neighbor as yourself." (Luke 10:27b)

The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Luke 10:29

Jesus then tells the religious leaders the parable of the Good Samaritan.......

Then Jesus said, "...now go and do the same." (Luke 10:37b)

Count Your Blessings....

2009-06-21T22:20:00.005-04:00

Pictures of the Rupp girl cousins singing "Count Your Blessings". June 20, 2009. A repeat performance from Grandma and Grandpa Rupp's 50th wedding anniversary circa 1960. Several of us "Outlaws" have been warmly welcomed to this amazing group of girl cousins.

Cousin Brenda is keeping an eye on cousin Linda...who is counting her blessings that she made it through the weddings of both of her daughters last year. One in July and one in December.
Cousin Delight is counting her blessings that her granddaugher is in the Miss Ohio contest this very night. Cousin Donna is counting her blessings that she is now retired from Nursing and finding more time to help others and do the things for the Lord that she loves to do.

We finally dragged Carma into the front row. She is the tiny one and was hiding.....note this next picture....

I still can't see cousin Marleen, she is behind someone in every picture! It is such a blessing to see the cousins! They are all so wonderful! And if I remember correctly this is just a little over half of them.

ABC's of the WORD..... "R"

2009-06-11T10:41:00.002-04:00

"God reigns above the nations, sitting on His holy throne. The rulers of the world have gathered together with the people of the God of Abraham. For all the kings of the earth belong to God.

He is highly honored everywhere.

Psalm 47:8-9

(A great comfort in these times.)

It's Art to Me....

2009-06-05T09:25:00.005-04:00

Just back it in so everyone can enjoy the view! That's what I'm talkin' about! Saw this today at the Post Office. Amazing Bronco! Andy, it was a real knock-out! (This is why I try to carry my camera every where I go.) The owner said that the man who did the make-over spent 45K w/o labor. Every thing on it is pristine. Lots of chrome...gas cap, etc, etc. Wish I had close up of the rivets over the wheel area......Kinda makes me homesick!

A Tale of Three Kings

2009-06-02T20:03:00.004-04:00

I just finished reading a great book "A Tale of Three Kings" written by Gene Edwards. After a short conversation with our teaching pastor Stan this morning, he gave me a copy. The book is a comparison of the lives of Saul, David and Absalom. I just read 1 Samuel 14 in my daily devotions this morning I just can't stop thinking about Saul. This book is very thought provoking. It would be especially helpful to those who feel hurt by the church, or someone who has gone through a church split. The author calls it a study in brokeness.

"Are you so certain your king is a Saul and not a David that you are willing to take the position of God and go to war against your Saul? If so, then thank God you did not live in the days of crucifixtion. What, then, can you do? Very little. Perhaps nothing. However, the passing of time (and the behavior of your leader while that time passes) reveals a great deal about your leader. And the passing of time, and the way you react to that leader--be he David or Saul--reveals a great deal about you." Ch. 16

It seemed like a good idea....

2009-06-01T21:00:00.002-04:00

1 Samuel 13. I just started reading in Samuel for my quiet time. Our teaching pastor Stan asked us to read in Samuel for the next few weeks. All day I have been thinking about Saul. He didn't obey God. He got anxious waiting for Samuel to come and offer sacrifices, so he took matters into his own hands and did it himself. His pride took over. This angered God and ruined Saul's life.

I have been thinking alot about how I often take things into my own hands instead of waiting for God. I wonder what I have missed by proudly going ahead on my own.

Doing what God says is more important than the battle itself. Saul was so concerned about the battle and his soldiers, that he forgot who he was fighting for.

http://www.nvcl.org/Carmel/Main.aspx?Page=This%20Week Link to our weekend service....will be posted 6/3/09.

Howlelujah....

2009-06-01T20:55:00.002-04:00

Howlelujah, Howlelujah, Howlelujah, Howlelujah.....Charlie's favorite song.

Signs of Spring!

2009-05-02T11:11:00.003-04:00

Playing House....

2009-05-02T10:54:00.005-04:00

I'm a little disappointed with this picture, but I don't have time to redo! I picked the honey suckle, etc. this morning when we were on a walk and Leesa brought me the lilacs...smells heavenly! The pie is a peach "Schwan's". I forgot to move it into one of my pyrex pie plates before I baked it! If you let it set a few minutes before you put it in the oven you can re-crimp the edges and it will look homemade. I learned that from a friend who owns a Bed and Breakfast!

Having guests for lunch today, instead of cleaning I'm piddling around with this and that. After I saw Cousin Brenda's post, I wanted to take a minute and post my happy arrangments! In the lower picture is a cute 3 tiered vase that holds little stems of this and that.

One of the things I do.....

2009-04-06T20:12:00.005-04:00

The monday after we have communion it is my job to clean up. The first time I did it I was trying to hurry through and I was very nervous that it seemed to take me a long time. The next time it went alot faster and better. Today was the third time and it was actually a joy. I tried to focus on Jesus and things about taking communion. I thought about things and words that have to do with taking communion. "This do in remembrance of me." Body the Bread, Blood the Cup. Drink ye all of it. The body of Christ broken for you. The blood of Christ shed for you. Do not partake in an unworthy manner.

As I stood at the sink and poured out the little glasses of juice I thought of all the times I drank the cup in an unworthy manner when my mind was elsewhere. It was just like pouring the wine down the sink. This is a special week, the week before Easter. A good time to think about these things. The body of Christ broken for me...take and eat...take and drink...

They look GREAT!

2009-04-06T19:59:00.003-04:00

This is mom and dad a few weeks ago at Leesa's house. They just get cuter and cuter! And they are the BEST! What a great example they always are to me. Thanks mom and dad!

Following Christ....

2009-04-05T17:39:00.000-04:00

How can we show our love for Christ this week?

Signs of Life

2009-04-05T17:29:00.005-04:00

I recently finished the book "Signs of Life" by David Jeremiah. I didn't realize (when I borrowed it from the library) that it was a 40 day devotional. I really enjoyed it. It was very inspiring and convicting. If I were put on trial for being a child of Christ would there be enough evidence to convict me. Jeremiah used many stories and examples to make the book so interesting. I especially liked the examples of art and history. It would make a great resource for a Life Group. Shadow Mountain church used it for an all church campaign and ended with a large serving opportunity. The kind of campaign we did at Northview last year with "Life On Loan". I think I'll buy the book and go through it again!

We've been on vacation....

2009-03-31T19:37:00.004-04:00

In the middle of February Mark and I went to Florida. We went to Treasure Island, Sunset Beach. It is a wonderful area, not too busy or commercial. The weather was cool and mild, but sunny. We just walked on the beach and rested, it was super!

This was the view from our porch. It was great to be right on the beach. It was mostly too cool to sit on the porch very long.......

It was so great to be at the beach. It is so beautiful and restful. It really made me think a lot about the greatness of God!

Happy Birthday Andy...27!

2009-01-30T10:06:00.005-05:00

Leave Room For God

2009-01-26T19:34:00.002-05:00

"When it pleased God..." Galatians 1:15

As servants of God, we must learn to make room for Him--to give God "elbow room". We plan and figure and predict that this or that will happen, but we forget to make room for God to come in as He chooses. Would we be surprised if God came into our meeting or into our preaching in a way we had never expected Him to come? Do not look for God to come in a particular way, but do look for Him. The way to make room for Him is to expect Him to come, but not in a certain way. No matter how well we may know God, the great lesson to learn is that He may break in at any minute. We tend to overlook this element of surprise, yet God never works in any other way. Suddenly--God meets our life--"...when it pleased God..."

Keep your life so constantly in touch with God that His surprising power can break through at any point. Live in a constant state of expectancy, and leave room for God to come in as He decides. My Utmost for His Highest......Oswald Chambers

Cousin Brenda....Check this Out!!!

2009-01-22T20:34:00.003-05:00

That's what I'm talking about! These are Indianapolis bowling shoes! No worry about taking these bad boys home!

Pretty in Pink

2009-01-22T20:05:00.003-05:00

Here's Leesa, showing off her darling dog and pink consignment shop top.

Purpose Driven Life....

2009-01-22T19:47:00.003-05:00

I'm starting the new year reading through "The Purpose Driven Life" again. I'm reading it as part of my morning quiet time with God. I also like to read "Face to Face" everyday. This book was given to me by my dear cousin Brenda. It is praying the scripture. I also read "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers, I use the updated version. To round out my morning I read a chapter of Proverbs, the one that relates to the date....today I read chapter 22. By the way, I'm using the Holman Standard Version for my Proverbs reading. It was recommended by Beth Moore.

Beautiful Sunrise at Church

2009-01-22T19:35:00.004-05:00

A beautiful morning on Wednesday, January 21. The sky was amazingly bright. I see a pretty sunrise almost every morning on my way to the church for work. A good excuse to start back

up on my blogging!

My New Camera...it's working!

2008-12-26T23:38:00.002-05:00

I'm starting to get the feel of my new camera! Thanks mom and dad! This is our stairway taken from the entry......

Familiar Faces at Church!

2008-12-26T23:34:00.001-05:00

Christmas Eve at Northview

2008-12-26T22:50:00.010-05:00

On Christmas Eve we had six services. It was amazing! The music was wonderful and Pastor Steve had a great message. I'm not sure the exact number, but we had about 5000 in attendance. Pastor Steve gave a clear gospel presentation and there were many that accepted Christ. It was wonderful!

One of my responsibilities was to help with the Christmas Hospitality Suite. We had food set up in our lower level for all of those who were serving. Worship Team, Greeting Team, Usher Team, Parking Team, Children's Ministry, Office Staff, and Pastoral Staff all snack and relax throughout the day. We had services starting at 10:30am till 6 pm.

I did a little decorating in the lower level......

Simple decorations on each table with a heart-felt Thank You! It was such a blessing to see everyone working together to have such a wonderful Christmas Eve service.

Our food was catered! I can't imagine what a blessing it is to have this kind of event catered!

The caterer is a member of our church and a wonderful young lady. She was a joy to work with everyone loved the food.

It was such a blessing to have the opportunity to serve in this way! I am so thankful for my church! It was so neat to have family there, too! Also, Mark served as a greeter in two services!

Homer and Hunter......

2008-12-21T21:12:00.003-05:00

My neighbor Alice has these cute kittens. I was kitty sitting tonight and sneaked a picture!

Christmas Highlights!

2008-12-21T20:58:00.004-05:00

Mom and Dad..........

A gift that only grandparents give!

Grace is so cute in her new hat!

Happy 89th Birthday!

2008-12-21T20:21:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday Dad! Mince pie instead of cake! Deb and Dad are here because they have no electricity at their home in Ft. Wayne! Major ice has caused electric outages throughout the city. Deb, Dad, two dogs, cat, two birds are holding up here til the electricity comes back on! They weren't planning to come until next week!

2008-12-08T20:17:00.000-05:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

Tuesday Morning Bible Study

2008-11-19T21:06:00.005-05:00

OK, I know I shouldn't brag about my Bible Study....but I can't help it!!!! Our Tuesday Morning Women's Bible Study is amazing!!! We have the best leaders and teachers! The gal in the brown coat is our Women's Bible Study Leader...Sherry...she's one of the best "preachers"..

I like to call her our own little "Beth Moore". She has a passionate love of the Lord and scripture!

This is our teacher Ann, she is a very devoted follower of Christ. Our class is "Walking in the Spirit" and our text book is the BIBLE. We are exploring the Fear of the Lord. Ann's love of scripture is contagious.

"To fear You, Lord, that is wisdom, And to depart from evil is understanding". Job 28:28

"Who are those that fear You? You will instruct them in the way they should choose." Psalm 25:12

"Blessed is everyone who fears You, Lord, And who walks in Your ways. " Psalm 128:1

"You take pleasure in those who fear You, O Lord, Who put their hope in Your unfailing love. "

Psalm 147:11

Crafting Sunday, November 9th

2008-11-11T20:19:00.005-05:00

Here's a little project that I worked on......I got the idea from Karen Hermanson at church, she's always coming up with neat ideas.

Here we are down in the basement crafting...left to right.....Aunt P (Paula Hertz, Leesa's husband Dave's sister from Illinois), Grace who's on the floor, you can only see her head, Leesa who's having an especially good hair day, and Grant who's drinking a diet coke and sitting close to the cookies (a boy after my own heart!) We had a great time, even though it was a short time.

Let's Go to the Rock!!!!

2008-11-06T19:33:00.003-05:00

http://

These are the days that we need to go to the ROCK!!

About my job......

2008-11-05T20:18:00.006-05:00

High on a hill in Hamilton County, Indiana....Northview Christian Life Church stands...houses all around us! It is a vast mission field! Thank you Lord for our wonderful location!

These photos were taken from beside my car as I left work tonight. The colors are beautiful. This is our new parking lot in what used to be the back of the church. I'll get pictures of the church soon, the front is all torn off for our building project.

This is Kim....She's my good friend. We've been meeting together on Monday's for a while and sharing life and praying together. She works at Capstone our coffee shop. Here she is presenting me with my "refill" cup of coffee!!! It is a fringe benefit to see her almost every day I work. She always has a story of how God is working in her life.

Today Kim's story was this one: She has helped start a Ladies Bible Study on Monday night. One of the ladies is having a birthday and she wanted to make her a prayer basket. (An idea that came from Elizabeth George, the author, I think) It's a basket with things you can use to enhance your quiet time with God. Anyway...she wanted to do it in blue which is the favorite color of the recipient. Kim's husband was late coming home on Sunday, because he had to stop and pick up something that they won at the local CVS. It was a gift basket.....filled with all things blue!!! A blue throw, a blue coffee mug, blue this and blue that...she told me all the stuff and I can't remember. God provided all she needed for the gift. Wow!

"And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from His glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

This is my desk area...notice I have a large window.....I haven't personalized it yet, or moved anything around. The monitor is big, but it is great! I'm going to put up a Pottery Barn crown molding ledge on the wall with frames on it. They were out of stock so I'm waiting on it. It will be fun to make my space my own. There is a nice lateral file behind my chair... it is nice and roomy.

My New Job.....

2008-10-29T21:17:00.002-04:00

I have been waiting to start blogging about my NEW JOB!!! It is amazing how God has blessed me with a wonderful new life experience.....

I'm now on staff at my church! Our Pastor of Assimilation, Doug Starkey...(Taylor University Grad.) asked me to consider the position several weeks ago. I wasn't quite ready to blog about it until I talked with Pottery Barn, etc.

I am the Assimilation Administrative Assistant....I can barely spell it! It's a wonderful opportunity. We are the ministry of Greeters, Ushers, Parking Helpers, Hospitality, Volunteer Finders, etc. I don't even know all of the correct lingo yet! (lingo???)

All of those reading this are asked to PRAY !!! I have lots to learn! More to come with pictures soon!

My Birthday Cake

2008-10-23T10:02:00.003-04:00

Guess what!!!! Another masterpiece cake by Liz Bellman! The most beautiful, adorable cake that you've ever seen! What will we do now that she's moving to Cincinnati??? It also tasted great a light almond flavoring with chocolate mousse filling! Thanks Liz! You're a dear!

My eyes are almost open...I guess when you get old it's hard to keep them open. Here we are again at the home of the Bellman's for Bible Study Group. Dan made a wonderful mexican casserole for our supper........

Our Work Day

2008-10-23T09:49:00.004-04:00

This is how we looked as we embarked on our service project for "Life on Loan". We were sad that Fay and Lee could not join us. Also absent from the picture are Ray and Pat who graciously started a new group for "Life on Loan".

This is our whole work day group at South Roberts Methodist Church where we prepared sack lunches for the homeless of downtown Indy. We prepared 400 bags...ready for sandwiches. Dan from our group spent the time organizing their stock room...I'm sure that was a blessing to them. It was amazing how everyone worked so well together. The kids were a great help too! We couldn't have done it without them! A happy note: Steven Quinn was a part of our group...he is a famous singer to me...he sings at church and at Colts games and at concerts....

he sang a bit for us. Steve and I did a duet of Dottie Rambo's "I go to the rock" It was a moment of greatness for me!!!!!! I couldn't believe he knew that song!!!!

Our New Fence

2008-10-16T18:40:00.003-04:00

This is the side by Alice......it hooks into her fence.

This is the Fleetwood Dr. side........

This is the gate on the Fleetwood Drive side...notice I had to decorate the gates post-haste!Charlie likes to go out, but so far he wants someone to go out with him! The fence was built by Amerifence http://www.amerifenceusa.com/. They did a super job and were so nice.

Visitors from Alaska.......

2008-10-13T19:32:00.010-04:00

It was great to have Tim and Nancy down from Alaska! They brought Dad Rupp from Fort Wayne with them,too!

Here are the guys after their morning walk with Charlie. Dad and I had a bit of time to discuss Proverbs 8. It's so neat to talk to Dad about the Bible. He confirmed my thoughts about "Wisdom" in this chapter is talking about "Jesus". I just love to hear him talk about the Bible. At 89, he is so sharp on God's word! The men headed off to the Eiteljorg Museum for the day. They had a great time, and also had lunch at the Museum...(It is a museum of the American Indian and the West.) I can just imagine them reading every plaque! I usually just like to get the visual, and not read everything! Nancy and I had our own happy day planned......

Nancy and I went to Quilts Plus, the #1 voted quilt shop in Indy. Then we went to Zionsville for some shopping in cute shops. We ended our time at the Sweet Shop in Carmel having a red velvet cupcake and coffee. (Cupcakes there are baked by Rhianna that works part time at Pottery Barn!) Nancy has taken up quilting...it is great to hear her talk about all her projects. She is donating her latest quilt to a homeless shelter type place in Anchorage. Nancy is very inspiring...she is now the "shopper" for a food pantry in Eagle River. She is involved in ministering to women at her church, too. Thanks for the inspiration, Nancy....reminds me of a Life on Loan!

Lumberjack

2008-10-11T21:07:00.004-04:00

Mark cut down a tree today that was near where our new fence is going. Alice wanted it down, she mentioned it to Mark this morning and he went out and cut it down!! He did a great job, it was scary. He put a rope on it and pulled it down after he had cut it almost down. He put it right between trees and the house. It was about 25' high. I was washing windows today...Pottery Barn didn't need me....It was a beautiful day. I got almost all of the outside ones done, I forgot about the high ones in the back...Oh well, the trees cover them! I can't believe how I enjoy clean windows! I used to be too busy to even realize how beautiful they are when they are clean. I also made a coffee cake, and an apple pie. Mom has been tutoring me on pie crust! (no Pillsbury crust this time!) Company coming tomorrow: Tim and Nancy (Mark's brother and sister in law from Alaska, and Dad Rupp....

Mourning into Dancing....

2008-10-09T21:30:00.002-04:00

A good song for today.....a bad day for our money....but what a wonderful, faithful God we have!!!!!!

Take time to watch this!!!!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enccXXNK0Hs

Go Grace Go!

2008-10-08T23:10:00.002-04:00

Grace is learning to drive! She is in driver's ed. We practiced driving down at Mom and Dad's. They have a new subdivision behind their house with nice wide roads. The subdivision connects to another subdivision so there's some room to drive a bit. She's coming right along! It was fun to help her in my little car!

Fun at the Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-08T22:39:00.004-04:00

What a beautiful day it was at Joe Huber's on the weekend. Our traditional fall happy family weekend was wonderful. We went earlier in the season this year and the pumpkins were plentiful! We hopped off the wagon picked up a pumpkin and hopped back on. Mom wondered if we were just getting older and didn't want to walk as much! I'm sure it was because there were so many beautiful pumpkins everywhere!!! Mark is posing with our pumpkin. I wish I had gotten more than one! Mom and Dad always treat us to a big chicken & ham dinner in the dining room. Their food is so good! http://www.joehubers.com/ They have a very nice website.....more pictures later.....

Go Sarah......

2008-10-02T21:23:00.002-04:00

We're praying for you...

Thanks Liz!!!

2008-09-30T15:41:00.002-04:00

Another beautiful cake by Liz!!! Our life group met at the Bellman's last week and sometimes we get a beautiful cake creation! Liz is the Bellman's daughter. The cake was a moist pumpkin cake. She made the fondant pumpkins, acorns and leaves. We are so blessed by Liz, even if she didn't make such wonderful cakes. She stayed for awhile and talked with us, that meant so much!

Red, white and blue...........

2008-09-29T21:48:00.003-04:00

Dad with Grace and Grant helping him put up the flag. This picture was taken at Christmas in 2006. It must have been a very warm and beautiful day! Thankful for great parents, family and our wonderful country!

Isaiah 50:7

2008-09-29T21:37:00.002-04:00

Because the sovereign Lord helps me I will not
be afraid. Therefore I have set my face like a
stone determined to do His will and I know that
I will triumph.

I haven't thought about that verse for a
while. It is definitely one of my favorites.
It has been a strange day, I'm not busy....I
can't cope :)

Morning Walk....

2008-09-25T10:16:00.003-04:00

"whether I look to the right or to the left I will hear a voice saying, 'This is the way, walk in it'". Isaiah 30:21 (my paraphrase)

Sorry Mr. Snowman....

2008-09-24T20:58:00.001-04:00

Sorry Nana, Charlie got too excited with Mr. Snowman tonight! Andy was here for supper and Charlie was acting up! It's so cute to see him with Andy! I'm going to try to put Mr. Snowman back together.....

My basement craft area....

2008-09-24T20:50:00.002-04:00

The joys of having an unfinished basement!!! A dream come true. It's not beautiful, but the space it wonderful.....

A Basset is an Asset

2008-09-22T20:09:00.002-04:00

Enjoy this .......http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2wpALJHCKA......dedicated to Charlie!!!!

Charlie's visitors

2008-09-20T21:55:00.003-04:00

Looks like a doggie choir doesn't it! This is Chuck and Pork Chop from next door....they stopped by this morning with their mom.

For LeAnn...my apothecary jar

2008-09-19T12:41:00.014-04:00

I think this is the only apothecary jar I have! I work at Pottery Barn and we have lots of neat ones!! (In fact they just called me to come to work!.....must go.......) I enjoyed all of your jars.
Be sure and check out LeAnn's blog, in my favorites, Simply Dandy--it is!!!

Treats for Small Group...

2008-09-19T12:41:00.009-04:00

Brown Bag Apple Pie and Triple Layer Peanut Butter Brownies....hope they enjoy!

Brown Bag Apple Pie

2008-09-19T12:41:00.007-04:00

Toss 4 cups of Granny Smith or other pie apples with fresh lemon juice. Prepare single crust in glass or ceramic pie pan. Arrange apples on crust.

Combine 1/2 cup sugar and 2 Tbls. flour and spices. Mix and sprinkle over apples. Next combine 1/2 sugar and 1/2 cup flour and cut in 1/2 cup butter to make a coarse crumble.

Sprinkle over apples.

Put into brown bag and secure with paper clips. Bake 1 Hour @ 425 degree oven.

Be careful when you open the bag....especially if you are talking to your sister on the phone when your doing it!

I am so happy!! It is beautiful and easy....hope our small group will like it!!! Here's the complete recipe....

Brown Paper Bag Apple Pie

1 unbaked 9" piecrust pierced with a fork

4 cups Granny Smith apples peeled and cored

2 TBLSP. fresh lemon juice

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup flour

2 TBLSP. flour

1/4 teas. nutmeg

1/4 teas. cinnamon

1/2 cup chilled butter.

Note: Place one extra shelf away from heating element. Make sure paper bag has no ink or paint on it. Use metal paper clips to close bag. I thought the bag smelled funny at the beginning, but it was OK.

Recipe from a "Cabin" magazine I saw at the hair salon....Great Clips!!!!!

A beautiful morning.....

2008-09-18T09:53:00.005-04:00

Late summer is always a great time for impatiens! Mine are just getting tall and filled in! My hybiscus is so very happy! It used to belong to Leesa and she didn't want to deal with it inside so she gave it to me. In the winter it has a home beside my desk. It even blooms in the winter. I hope you can see the caladium, it is hiding beside the pot in the top picture. This was a gift from dear friends, the Durrance's from Lake Placid Florida, the Caladium capitol of the U.S. They sent us a bunch of bulbs, but I didn't take good care of them. I'm so glad this one survived. In our climate I will have to dig up the bulbs before the frost.

Charlie looks like he just woke up from a nap. I couldn't get a good pose out of him.....

Isaiah 1:17

2008-09-18T09:53:00.002-04:00

May I learn to do good,
Seek justice,
Remove the oppressor,
Defend the orphan,
And plead for the widow.

She Loves Her Aunt.....

2008-09-17T13:51:00.000-04:00

Our dear little Fanny.........

Neighborhood Drug Bust

2008-09-17T13:38:00.006-04:00

What a shock to wake up Tuesday Morning to a major drug bust going on across the street.

I took a few pictures incognito.....The family was new to our neighborhood. We are in shock.

It is a nationwide drug ring, we don't know any details. 17 lbs of cocaine and stacks of cash...... I saw them putting several bags of white power in plastic bags. Unbelievable!!!

Enough of that! Please pray for the children in the family....what a mess!

Life on Loan

2008-09-15T20:22:00.003-04:00

We are starting a spiritual emphasis at our church based on the book by Rick Rusaw and Eric Swanson....LIVING A LIFE ON LOAN. It was a wonderful treat to have Eric Swanson at church this weekend. His message to us was to go from being a GREAT church, to being a GOOD church. From Acts 10:36 - 38......(Paul speaking to non-jews) "God sent...the good news...through Jesus Christ and.....God annointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and....He went around "doing good."

Point#1 Ministry of Mercy.....Focus: Improving another's life for "today" - from need to temporary improvement. Mercy..."God's attitude and action towards those in distress." Mercy is simple. Luke 10. The Good Samaritan......"saw him" and moved towards him...small things add up...."Go and do likewise"

Point#2 Ministry of Empowerment
Focus: Improving another's life for a "lifetime" from dependence to sufficiency. Psalm 63...Father of the fatherless.....

Point#3 Ministry of Evangelism
Focus: Making another's life better for "eternity" from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light. Their destiny is forever changed.

We can turn our good intentions into good deeds........

Great thoughts....Praying that I will listen to God's leading............

Pie Crust Protectors

2008-09-15T19:39:00.004-04:00

I found some pie crust protectors. I hope I can get the link....www.metrokitchen.com/product/DM-CRSTPT?source=deal&keyword=DM-CRSTPT&utm_source=shopping-com&utm_medium=scs&utm_term=DM-CRSTPT
......this isn't pretty, but I think it will get the job done!!!!! Mine fit only a 9" pan, they will not work on an 8" pan. Most of the ones you see are 9".
I don't like the ones that are in pieces, they are hard to handle.....

Happy Birthday Grace!

2008-09-14T16:03:00.008-04:00

Happy 15th Birthday Grace!!!! Some pictures from our happy day on Saturday! We had pizza at our favorite Puccini's, then all came back to our house for mom's German Chocolate Cake and other sweets.....So blessed to have family together.

Pumpkin Pie

2008-09-14T15:48:00.005-04:00

My secret pumpkin pie recipe....is found on the can of Libby's pumpkin. Also my crust is found in this red Pillsbury box. I get so many compliments on my pumpkin pies...it is the easiest of all pies. These two pies were baked for our Bible Study group on Friday night. I served Indiana Chili and Pumpkin Pie. Since some of our group comes straight from work we try to have a simple supper before group and dessert after. Our group has been together for about two years. We were all new to our church and empty nesters. We just finished watching Beth Moore's Daniel series. Our men loved Beth!!!! Check out Cousin Brenda's blog (Beesnest) to see what she served at her group!!!! Brenda, I didn't have any table decor!!!!

P.S. The pies at the top still have the protective rings that guard the crust while baking....they are great and a must! I don't know why I didn't remove them before the pictures!

Too Dark......

2008-09-08T21:38:00.003-04:00

Click on picture to see my beautiful friend Kim...she was over for a good visit and supper. I so wish I had taken more than one picture! Kim is full of life and sunshine I'm sorry the picture is so dark!

That's what I'm Talking About!!!

2008-09-08T20:48:00.003-04:00

Look at the new whisk Mom bought me!!! My old rusty one is gone to recycling. What a wonderful treat, I've already used it several times. It has a soft plastic covering on the handle and is ergonomically comfortable :) I think the name is Le Creuset...I'm totally too lazy to get up and check the name. Thanks mom, it is wonderful. This would make a great gift for any kitchen!

Fun at the Flea Market

2008-09-08T20:27:00.006-04:00

Here are the treasures that I picked up at the Vedersburg flea market. I took my neighbor Alice the Friday before Labor Day. I found several pieces of Pyrex. Another of my weaknesses is vintage table cloths, I got two, and they were each $1 each! Note the vintage playing cards...I have always enjoyed them, and bought a few decks. This month's Mary Engelbreit's Home Companion magazine has an article on collecting playing cards.

Not a Clue.....

2008-09-07T19:34:00.002-04:00

I can't find my camera cord! I have several pictures that I wanted to put on the blog, and I can't find my cord!!! I took before and after pictures of my family room. Leesa helped me paint it. I also have pictures of my flea market purchases from Veedersburg. I'm sure I will find the cord. I moved it when we painted. I hadn't been on the computer for a couple of weeks. I just waded through my emails.

Cousin Brenda has a broken leg. So sorry.....I haven't checked out her blog yet.....I'm sure she's making the best of it.

I spent a couple of days down at Mom and Dad's and had a wonderful time...

Grace and Grant are settled back in school. We are celebrating Grace's birthday here next Saturday, I'm excited. She will be 15!!! She is already signed up for driver's training.

Hopefully I will find my camera cord...I will look for it tomorrow...too lazy tonight!

Brickyard 2008

2008-07-28T16:22:00.005-04:00

Brickyard 2008 is but a bad racing memory. About the only side by side racing we saw was these wreckers!! The Nascar wreckers are amazing, I wish I had a better photo. It would be so cool to ride around the track in them, I would prefer it to a race car. (I'm too claustro!) The happy people in the picture are our racing friends that sit near us. We have been sitting near Tim & Co. for about 8 years. This picture is especially for our racing buddies Dick and Ruthie who couldn't be with us this year. We have become friends with Tim, he has had a hard life, it seems. He has 3 beautiful girls and we have watched them grow up. It's neat the people God puts in our life path.

For any of you who don't follow Nascar racing, yesterday's race was a series of caution laps, mandated by Nascar because of tires that were wearing out in 6 - 10 laps. I don't think they raced more than 13 laps all day without a caution. It was frustrating.

It's time to hang up my hat for another year.....I guess we're not going to any more races this year. Right Ruthie & Dick?

Calendar Found

2008-07-23T20:29:00.003-04:00

Today I learned something that can really get me in a tiz. I lost my calendar. I was looking everywhere. I only have a few places that I keep it, my purse, by the phone, or on my desk. I started to panic and looked everywhere. I realized that I have so many drawers that could be named "Junk Drawer". I cleaned out a few....I went through the recycling, looked in the car. I called my sis and she helped me think of where I've been and where I could look. I thought if I dropped it somewhere, someone would certainly call. By the way, now is a good time to make sure you have your name and phone number in your calendar! By noon I had given up. I just started asking God to help me find it. I know God cares about me, and this was really getting me upset. After I spent some time in prayer, it was time to go over to my neighbor Alice's and help her with cleaning. On the way through the garage I decided to look in the car again. I opened the back hatch and crawled in and looked down behind the back seats...........there was my calendar!!!! Only the voice of God could tell me to look there....it was a miracle. It must have slid out of my purse when I took the dog to the dog wash and then I put the seats up.......
hallelujah!!!!

"The Lord your God is with you...He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17

This verse from my QT this morning has a special meaning.....Thank you Lord for helping me today!!!!

Copeland Cousins

2008-07-22T21:13:00.004-04:00

More cousins! These are my girl cousins from my mom's side of the family. I can't believe we didn't get all of us in the picture! There were several in-law's that we missed. It made me feel terrible! The Rupp cousins are so good including the in-laws! Next year we will get all of us!

A great verse for today................

2008-07-22T21:07:00.002-04:00

" I take joy in doing your will O God, for your law is written on my heart." Psalm 40:8

Catching Up......

2008-07-22T20:56:00.005-04:00

Here are some pictures from our family Indianapolis vacation two weeks ago.....we had a great time. We went to the Benjamin Harrison Home and Conner Prairie, plus had lots of good food and fellowship. I can't believe that we didn't get a family picture with everyone in it. The top picture is the two Nancy's. When we went into the weaving cottage at CP the weaving sisters were Nancy and Grace. They were precious. Conner Prairie is a wonderful place. We are so blessed to have it so close.

Beautiful Sunset....

2008-07-09T21:39:00.002-04:00

This photo was taken behind our house tonight. Grace noticed the sunset and I ran out and took this picture. It is a good time to start back into my blogging. Uncle Walt went to heaven on June 26th ( I think it was that evening.) It was kind of hard to know what to say about it. It was very sad, but happy, because he has his new fine working heavenly body. I'm sorry for his wonderful wife, Kay (he married her many years ago after Aunt Bernice died). Uncle Walt has the greatest children. I know the children better than I knew Uncle Walt. There's son Lowell, Louanna, Donna and Brenda. They are wonderful, the more I know them, the more I knew what a great man Uncle Walt was.

"He maketh me lie down in green pastures, He leadeth me beside still waters, He restores my soul." from Psalm 23.......reading with Grant last night.....

Pray for Uncle Walt

2008-06-24T21:22:00.003-04:00

Our Uncle Walt.....father of Lou, Brenda, Donna and Lowell, is not doing well. He is in the hospital and the family are making decisions today for his ongoing care. Lou, Brenda and Donna were bravely at the cousin reunion. Uncle Walt will be 90 on July 5. May God give them all, along with his wife Kay, peace and wisdom at this difficult time.

Wonderful Things You Get With Your Husband

2008-06-24T20:50:00.012-04:00

I just returned from the third bi-annual Rupp Girl Cousin Retreat. It took place at our cousin's lake cottage on Round Lake in Michigan. The Lester Rupp Family shares a beautiful new cottage built on the lot of their former cottage purchased in 1967 by uncle Lester. Each family has their own bedroom that accomodates their family, some rooms with multiple beds. The house is decorated in white, yellow and blue. Our cousin Brenda of Beesnest started the retreat six years ago at her Chicago home. She said "You don't have to be young to make memories"....or something like that! She was right!! What wonderful memories we now have of our cousins! We that are inlaws, or as we say "outlaws", have been especially blessed to be loved and welcomed. I so appreciate Mark's family. Another of the cousin families has a beautiful condo on Devil's Lake close by and some of the cousins stayed there. I think there is a total of 36 cousins and outlaws. 29 attended the retreat. Our ages range from around 39 - 70.

Looking forward to the next one in 2010!

Cute Cousin Gift

2008-06-24T20:46:00.002-04:00

This is the gift that Jo made for us. Each of us received a cup with our name on it. A beach towel, she had all different ones!! And other treats!!! I love my pink towel!

A Proverb for my dear friend Kim....

2008-06-17T23:10:00.002-04:00

"Tune your ears to wisdom and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight and understanding. Search for them as you would for lost money or hidden treasure. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From His mouth comes knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of good sense to the godly......Then you will understand what is right, just and fair, and you will know how to find the right course of action every time. For wisdom will enter your heart and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise planning will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe." Proverbs 2:2-7;9-11

I know that God will give you wisdom if you ask! That's what the book of Proverbs is all about. So many time it tells us to seek wisdom, cry out for wisdom and search for it! He has a treasure of knowledge and understanding for you!!!! XOXOXOX

A visit to Mom and Dad's

2008-06-17T22:45:00.006-04:00

I just returned from a short visit to Mom and Dad's. We had a wonderful time! My pictures are not the best. I wanted to take a picture of the vegetable garden. Notice mom's hosta pot! Her's looks alot better than mine.

One of the best parts of going down to mom and dad's is our morning bible reading and prayer time. They are reading through the Bible together in a year. This is the third year in a row that they have done it. We were reading in II Kings, it was very interesting. It goes right along with our Daniel Bible study we are doing in small group. I know if I would spend more time reading the Bible, its time lines would get clearer to me. It is so wonderful to have prayer time with mom and dad. I am so blessed! They are such a good example to me. I feel like I have been on a retreat!

"Listen my child, to what your father teaches you. Don't neglect your mother's teaching. What you learn from them will crown you with grace and clothe you with honor."

Proverbs 1:8-9

Nanny with Grant

2008-06-03T14:12:00.003-04:00

Mom brought Grant a Children's Bible. He loves it so "bad". Nanny read him a story from the book of Samuel. He was so tired after our busy evening. He went right to bed at 9:15 after a big tub bath. He is such a joy. I'm so glad he feels at home here. It's good for Leesa to get away with Grace, and nice for us to have this special time with Grant.

I Samuel 2:2
No one is Holy like the Lord!
There is no one other than you!
There is no rock like our God.

......more

2008-06-03T13:57:00.005-04:00

More pictures from our happy evening last night. We had a great visit. Grace and Leesa left this morning for Washington DC, Grace's 8th grade trip. They will be gone all week, then fly from DC to Florida to meet Dave, Grant and his dad and sister for a two week vacation. Grant and Fanny (doggie) are staying with Mark and I this week. ( We have two older lawn chairs for sitting out front....we received them for a wedding gift in 1976 and Mark's dad and mom re-webbed them in about 1984. They are the greatest! I don't think they make them like that anymore!) Note truck sitters in the back!

Family Times

2008-06-03T13:49:00.003-04:00

Mom and Dad were up yesterday and last night. We had supper together and went out front to watch Grant ride his scooter. This is what we call our red-neck lawn furniture. Mom, Grant and Andy in Andy's truck bed.