Thoughts for Today

 When you became a believer, you also became God’s messenger. God wants to speak to the world through you. Paul said, “We speak the truth before God, as messengers of God.”    2 Corinthians 2:17b

After some much cooler days, El Paso’s heat temps are on the rise. Supposed to be at 100 degrees on Monday – yikes – when I will be picking up the papers for the next issue and begin distributing. Hopefully there will be a breeze.

I think today it was supposed to be in low 90s. It sure felt that it was while I was out working in my backyard mowing, pulling and chopping weeds, weedeating as it would work. And sweeping up the millions of leaves that have congregated on my patio from my neighbors’ trees. Ugghh – to me that is one of the worst chores to have to do. BUT I will say, there is nothing better than how you feel after taking a shower after begin all hot and sweaty and stinky.  What a relaxing feeling, and how accomplished I felt once I sat in my den and looked out upon my handiwork.

Looking out over the yard, made me think about how God felt as He would look out over His creation each day. And then on the seventh day when He was done and saw that it was all good. He created the world, the land and sea, the animals, Adam and then from his rib – Eve.  And all I did was beautify my back yard, yet felt so accomplished and proud!!

Can you imagine, the Lord looked at and looks at us, and thinks we’re good??  He loves us at all times. We don’t deserve it, we aren’t worthy of it. He hates our sin ….. but loves us, the sinners.  We are to do the same. We aren’t to judge and be judgemental which can cause “hate” towards others.  We aren’t to hate those who believe or do the things we despise or are against. We can hate the sin or wrongful act; but we are to love the sinner. Afterall, we are ALL sinners and we want others to love us.

Is there someone you need to forgive, or to work towards showing more compassion? Could your influence, if you were to be caring and compassionate towards them – help them see the error of their ways, and ultimately lead them to a relationship with the Lord?  Think about it. Can you make a point to reach even just one of these for the Lord?

Until next time,

From May 5, 20112

I just noticed as I sit to update the site that neither of the updates I posted on this page in April appear here. Not sure if I did something wrong — or if it was an issue within wordpress. Oh well, no way to get back that information. I’m sure it would have been something very compelling and interesting, RIGHT?!  LOL

Seems we’ve moved out of Spring and right into Summer here in El Paso. We’ve had temps in the 90s for a bit, then had a small reprieve with a few days in the 80s. But according to Robert Bettes, Chief Meterologist with KDBC Channel 4 — it’s going to get quite hot again in the next few days.

I want to wish all Mom’s out there a very Happy Mother’s Day next Sunday. I hope that most of you will be able to spend the day with your children. Of course if you have small ones still at home – this won’t be a problem. But – for those of you whose children are grown and gone – more difficult. I have one in town and one out of state. Every day is hard for me with my daughter and her family out of town – but most especially on any kind of holiday. But, I’ll make the most of it, and perhaps we’ll get to SKYPE and it will seem somewhat like being together.

My deepest condolences to any moms who have lost a child. I’m sure Mother’s Day most of all is most difficult. I pray that the Lord will bring you peace, and fill your heart and mind with the good, sweet memories of your child who has gone too soon. I pray too that you will have other family and/or friends to share this day with to comfort you.

Until Next Time,

posted March 31, 2012

Spring is hear and what a strange weather time, eh?  Two weeks ago Monday as I was delivering the March 22nd issue of The Messenger, I drove three rain four or five times, snow four times, and extreme wind and dust storms all throughout the day/evening, not to mention really cold. Days later on Sunday it was a balmy 90 degrees!  We’re to be in 90s this weeknd, then down to 70 on Monday. Ahhhhh 70s great weather to deliver the April 5th issue.

We’re getting closer to Easter and celebrating our Savior’s Resurrection – Be sure to invite friends and loved ones to church with you. It’s a well known fact that unchurched folks are more likely to say YES to an invite to church on Easter and/or Christmas.

Time is also nearing on my visit from my daughter, son-in-law, and precious grandkids. I am uber excited – but panicked as well because I still have so much to do to get ready for them, and for the next issue of the paper. But God is Good – All the Time, so He will help me accomplish all that is necessary.

I pray that you and yours will all have a very blessed Easter season.

Until Next Time

posted March 17, 2012

Hey All – are you all getting excited for Easter? I am even more so now that I’ve learned that my daughter, son-in-law, and my precious Kelsey and Jacob will be here! Now I a super excited for it. How wonderful it will be to share this special holiday again with them. It will be nice to have them at church with me, and have a special holiday meal. AND have the Easter egg hunt and baskets with the grandkids. I am SO psyched.

BUT at times I feel guilty about being so excited to spend this special time with them, I’m reminded that it was at this time that Jesus suffered so incredibly on the cross for our sins, for my sins. Praise God after all that suffering – he rose again three days later!  He LIVES!!!

Until next time,

posted March 3, 2012

So …. all you El Paso readers – have you been holding on tight to something strong and stable lately?  These winds have been pretty horendous lately. I don’t know about you, but I have been going through lots more hairspray, and I already used enough as it was!!  But as bad as it has been here with the wind, it is nothing compared to what I’ve been reading on the internet with the areas being hit by the tornados. That has to be so devastating. I for one just don’t understand why there has to be such a thing as a tornado – but the Lord is in control. He knows what He is doing at all times, although we don’t understand – He always does.

Until Next Time,

posted February 18, 2012

My precious, youngest grandchild – Jacob turned two years old on the 16th. It’s so hard for me with them living in North Carolina. I was unable to go and be with him to celebrate and it broke my heart. He was so young when they moved there 14 months ago, and they will be there another two years. I hate that we aren’t getting to create te kind of bond with each other that I have with his sister Kelsey. But thank God for the phone and computer/SKYPE where we can still hear each others voices and see faces now and again. Unfortunately, I don’t get to do that as often as I want due to my heavy work schedule, not to mention them being two hours ahead of El Paso. But – we really enjoy the times we do get to share.

Those of you reading who have grandchildren miles away – what do you do to keep from missing them so much? What do you do to keep your bond close, and keep the small ones from forgetting you? I’d love to hear from you, to hear about your connections with your grandkids. I love mine so much I can’t imagine anyone loving them more. So amazing to know that God loves them more than I do – and He feels that way about every single person on the earth! Can you imagine being able to have an intense love for so many people? Isn’t it something that he loves each of us the same? No one more or less than another.

Many people come and go in our livesI for one am so thankful for His love, and that I can be assured that He loves me (and you) with an everlasting love. If no one has told you lately ………….. Jesus Loves You!!!!

Until Next Time

posted February 3, 2012

I have sure been enjoying the wonderful weather we have been having here in El Paso. Sure is a great change from this time last year. Those of you who live here surely remember that this time last year was when we had the BIG FREEZE – remember?!  I had been sooooo hoping that wouldn’t happen this year, and must say am extremely, pleasantly pleased that it hasn’t.

Praise God I am finally getting well after being extremely sick for nearly two months. It’s been a long road and I am so thankful it is nearing its end.

At risk of sounding like a broken record — I am still struggling when updating this site. It will not allow me to any longer upload the pdf of the paper. I know there are many who keep checking back so they can view more than what is archived here, wanting to see the pdf showing the whole paper. Again I ask — If you know the workings of WordPress and can tell me what could be going wrong and how to fix it I would appreciate the advice.

We’re just getting done uploading the files to the printer for this issue – and it has just completed so I am out of here!!

God Bless,

kelly

posted January 21, 2011

Yet again I’ve tried but am unable to upload the pdf file for the full paper onto this site. I even deleted six of the oldest issues in case it was a an issue of space. But, it still would not upload. Does anyone reading have any idea what I can do to make this work?? if so PLEASE contact me via email and give explanation.

I realized when it was time to update for the 1/26 issue that I hadn’t yet updated with info from the 1/12 issue. I apologize to any who have been checking in in search of new info. I have been very sick since December 5th, got quite a bit better, then went to the doctor hoping that would help finally get me back to 100%  Instead, I grew sicker still. Turns out I was allergic to one of the three meds I was prescribed.  Unfortunately, I didn’t know that was wrong for five full days of growing increasingly sicker. Finally I went back to the pharmacist to see if there was something over the counter they could suggest that could help me. At that point I was desperate – feeling I needing to go to the hospital possibly. Thank God the pharmacist remembered me from five days prior and was amazed at how much SICKER I was after half way through the meds, rather than well. She told me which prescription was likely the culprit – said to stop it, and then directed me to Claritin and had me take one immediately. It took until 3 am in the morning before the Claritin kicked in and began to help. But finally began to feel relief. Now it has been six more days, and while I am better than I was last Monday, I am still a ways to go to be back 100%. If you are a praying person – PLEASE -  pray for my health – that the Lord will soon restore me to full health.

If you you any suggestions, or comments for The Messenger I would love to hear from you. Please send those to me via email at media4him@yahoo.com.

Until next time,

Well here I am two weeks later, and STILL I can’t get this site to cooperate and allow me to upload the current issue pdf files for the Nov. 24th and Dec. 8th issues. Come tomorrow I will have the Dec. 22nd issue also ready to upload. Is there anyone out there who may be able to suggest any tips on how to accomplish this? I had no problems what-so-ever doing any of the others in the past. But now it just won’t work. I mentioned last time about learning of the “WordPress for Dummies” book, bur I still haven’t located it.

There have been all kinds of events in the past couple weeks. Be sure to pick up the newest issue dated December 22, 2011 and read about the Hillson Live Concert, Ivan Parker Concert, Pastor Wally Chapman Retirement, and Venite “oh Come”. Check out The Messenger’s facebook page to view all the photos taken at each event.

Merry Christmas to each of you. I pray that it will be a very blessed Christmas for you.

Until next time ….

posted December 5, 2011

Just dropping in to let any of you who are checking for the current pdf files to see complete paper – I am sorry – but I just tried again but WordPress just isn’t letting me upload the November 24th issue – I’ve tried many times, and also now the December 8th issue won’t upload as well. Has something to do with WordPress. Anyone out there know if something has changed in the process how to do this?? I get the screen you used to, and then it shows the file uploads 100% but then freezes or something right there and it never lets me go on to place it. So …. sorry folks, I will keep trying. Found out there is a book “WordPress for Dummies” but so far haven’t found it to purchase. They’re always out!

Until next time ….

ve

posted December 3, 2011

Went to an awesome concert last night – it was Hillsong Live. What an awesome evening of praise and worship. Most of the time the audience was on their feet and singing right along with them. What a joyful noise unto the Lord with 4,000 voices in the audience singing along.

Our weather is getting colder and colder, and actually seeming to me more like home (Illinois). I’ve found myself several times lately thinking “If I’m going to deal with this weather I might as well be back home dealing with it.” But – I know it is much more extreme there than here. I just miss the way that El Paso was when I first came here 12 years ago and it was never cold, I never needed a coat. Back when I first came to El Paso there was sunshine 355 plus days per year. But not so any more. I enjoy over cast days – but not snow! I used to also not enjoy rain, but it does it so infrequently that I can enjoy it now.

Because of attendng the concert I then worked on editorial for the current issue until just about 5:00 am so I am dragging now. But – the concert was so awesome it’s worth it, right?!  I took tons of photos at the concert so check The Messenger’s facebook page now and then to watch for when they’re posted. It will be coming soon.

Until next time …

posted November 18, 2011

I’d like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. I pray that you will be blessed on Thanksgiving day and always. I hope you will enjoy time with family and/or friends.

I’ve just finished updating this site and Praise God – for now it appears that WordPress has fixed whatevver the issue was that was causing me all the problems with pasting the copy into the pages. This helped me greatly making it take much less time to update the pages with a lot less work to get the text to flow correctly, or at least as close as possible. Thank You Lord for Your help with this – it was so nice to update this time without all the stress

I’d love to hear from you if you have any comments, suggestions, story ideas for upcoming issues, etc. You can email me at media4him@yahoo.com

Until next time ….

posted November 5, 2011

Hard to believe we went from it just cooling off a bit from our 90s to 100s temps to in no time having our lows of 30s and 40s at night. I don’t know about you but I have been waking up in the morning very, very cold. Hard to believe for El Paso. I remember when I first moved here for many years I never felt I got cold here. Seems each year now though it gets colder and colder. As long as we don’t start getting snow to go with the cold, I’ll be happy

I’ve been hearing from so many people who are struggling; either finanicially, spiritually or physically/medically. TImes certainly are tough and I pray it gets better soon for us all. Please join me in prayer for all those who are hurting and struggling in every way.

Until next time,

posted October 22, 2011

Wow here we are at the latter half of October already. My how it seems that 2011 has flown past. Before we know it Christmas will be upon us. If you have folks on your gift list that you always struggle with what to get them – why not consider giving them a gift subscription to The Messenger? You can give a gift that will keep on giving all throughout the year. It’s easy to do, and you can scratch one or more folks off your list at once without even living home! Just mail a check or money order for either $26.00 for local El Paso area; or $30.00 for out of state to: Media 4 Him, PO Box 3367, El Paso, TX 79923. Include the name and address for the person you wish the subscription to be mailed to each issue. We will include a gift notice along with the first issue they receive to let them know that you have purchased this gift for them. You will not only be taking care of a gift off your lift, providing your loved one with a gift that will keep on giving, BUT will also be supporting this ministry and helping us to continue publishing.

If you haven’t already been doing so, be sure to check in often at The Messenger’s facebook page. I post all photos taken at events I attend so you will be able to view more than what we are able to include in the paper. You can also post a comment there if you wish. Be sure to click “Like” while you are there and share the page address with all your friends and ask them to “Like” it too.

There are many concerts and great events coming up, so be sure to check out the Upcoming Events tab and scroll through to see what all is happening in the weeks and months ahead.

Until next time …

posted October 8, 2011

Hope you are all enjoying our recent Fall like weather here in El Paso. According to the news I hear we may go back to the warmer weather, but we’ll see. I love this time of year, for some reason I tend to feel I have more energy, and enjoy being outside much more when it isn’t so hot. I’ve wanted to get back to exercising for quite some time now – but just can’t seem to get into it when it is hot. I’m praying that with the weather change I will be able to start that and stick with it.

I keep hearing ALREADY that Christmas is just around the corner. If you have folks that you would like to give a gift to, but can’t think of what to give – why not give them something that will keep on giving, encouraging and lifting them up all year long?! Purchase a gift subscription for only $26 for a year and we will mail them their copy every issue. What a way to share the love and Word of Christ with someone you care for the whole year through. If interested mail a check for $26 for each subscription, along with the names and addresses of those to receive the subscription(s). We will include a notice with the first issue letting them know that you have purchased an annual gift subscription for them.

Untiil Next Time,

posted September 25, 2011

FINALLY – I got the site updated, had to do three issues at once. Hard to believe how fast I can get so far behind. It tooks hours and hours, but at least it is caught up, as far as the archives are concerned. I still need to get probably five or six of the pdf versions updated. Hopefully will be able to do that soon as well. I’ll certainly try. I hate being behind – but it’s getting more and more difficult to keep up, especially since for whatever reason this WordPress site is so hard to update.

Until next time,

posted August 6, 2011

Discoovered has I got on to update the site with the newest issue, that I’d never updated with the last issue. I truly apologize to those of you who rely on the site to keep up with the information from the paper. I remember now that my sister was in town visiting and went with me to the designer’s office while we proofed the pages for the last issue. Instead of me updating the site in between proofreading pages I instead just sat and chatted! Obviously I nevver remembered to update the site! So sorry.

Well, now I’ve just updated and included the info from both issues July 28th and August 11th. I hope you’ll enjoy it. I know that I am also really behind on posting the pdf archives so that you can view the full paper. These take over 20 minutes each to upload, and I just never seem to have the time to do it, especially now that there are many to catch up on. But – I will make a point to start in on them, even if it is just one or two at a time. Eventually they’ll be caught up and I’ll try to keep it that way.

I hope that everyone in El Paso has been enjoying the scattering of rain and Thunderstorms we’ve been having lately. I know it can cause problems – flash floods for a time etc., but it has been soooo needed. I’ve sat on my front porch at night and watched a few of the storms as they light up the sky – been putting on quite a show lately. Funny how you can watch and watch and it looks as if any moment the sky is going to break open and hit us with pouring rain — and then moments later it’s gone. Nothing happens. Kind of how life is, isn’t it.

Until next time

posted July 9, 2011

As you will be able to tell as you navigate around this site – you will see I am still having extreme trouble when updating the site. I don’t know what the issues are – but it no longer allows text to flow easily. If anyone knows how to solve these problems PLEASE contact me.

So we’re in the sit and wait stage – weather forecasters are calling for rain – claim it will rain for days starting yesterday – but still no rain. I’m hoping we get it, we need it so much – BUT – I am praying that it doesn’t do it next Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday while I am delivering the papers. But if it does, it does – it is so needed I just have to go with the flow, eh?!

I hope everyone had a safe and happy Fourth of July. It was odd not seeing fireworks due to the ban, because of our dry dangerous days. But, I did get to see some neat pictures of fireworks my daughter attended at Fort Bragg, NC.

Hope everyone is keeping cool in these hot days – they claim the cooler days are on the way. I’m looking forward to them, how ’bout you?

Until Next Time,

posted June 11, 2011

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY to all the fathers who are reading! May God bless you and your children.

Sorry I haven’t posted anything new until now. I have had so many problems trying to update this site the last several issues. I’m sure you will see as you go through and click and read the different topics – that for some reason when I cut and paste the editorial to the pages – they no longer flow correctly. I have to backspace, delete etc just trying to get the editorial to place on the page. So … unfortunately it not longer has a nice, easy reading flow to the pages. I have tried many things trying to make it work as it used to – but t no avail. I’ve asked others who are much more familiar with WordPress than I — and they don’t know how to fix the problem either. So … for now until and unless someone can tell me what I need to do to correct it – this is the best it can be. Hopefully soon someone will be able to tell or show me what needs to be done, because I do not like to put it out to the blogosphere this way … but if not … then it just wouldn’t be here at all. And although it takes me much longer to update the site now – I know there are many who this is the only way they get to read any part of The Messenger. Therefore, I will keep doing it.

Until next time,

posted May 2, 2011

I pray that you’ve each had a blessed Easter Holiday and along with sharing the time with family and friends, were able to consider the cross and marvel at what our Lord did for us there so many years ago.

Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers who are reading. I hope the day will be one of rest and relaxation for you all. Being a mother is an awesome responsibility, and the most rewarding job we will ever have.

If you’re interested in the events we go to – be sure to hop over to facebook and check out our page and photos. Once in facebook – enter The Messenger Christian Newspaper into the search box. Be sure to click “Like” and tell your friends to check out the page and become fans/friends.

If you happen to carry around a digital camera with you, or your cell phone has a built in camera as most do – if you happen to catch someone reading The Messenger, snap the picture and send it in to me. Send photo along with name of person in the photo, location photo was taken, and name of person who took the photo. I’ll publish it in the next available issue of the paper, as well as on this site.

God Bless. Until next time ….

posted April 18, 2011

It’s been another busy couple of weeks since last issue. Many wonderful events to go to, and cover for the paper. BBB 2011 Annual Meeting and Torch Awards was on Wednesday last week, Alexine Garcia wrote the story – read this on page 4. I then got to meet and interview Pam and Phil Morgan on Friday, and then to St. Clements to hear them speak and sing on Saturday. You can read about them on the cover of the next issue.  Also Friday evening, I went to the Listen to the Sound concert with Building 429, Revive and Anthem Lights, read this story on page 4.

Got bad news tonight, my mom who lives in Illinois was taken to the hospital this evening. So far all we know is they have done all sorts of tests and will keep her over night for observation.  So, for all you praying people reading, please keep her in your prayers. Her name is June. Thanks in advance to all who will pray.

Until next time,

posted April 2, 2011

Wow – I’ve had the priviledge to have two Spirit-filled week ends in a row. Last week was the Re-Digging the Wells Reunion and Revival at Jesus Chapel (El Paso) and Heart for the World (Las Cruces). This week was the Priscilla Shirer Simulcast at St. Mark’s UMC (El Paso).  What a blessing they both were. If interested you can read the story about Re-Digging the Wells in the current issue dated April 7th – hits the streets Monday the 4th. The story on the Priscilla Shirer Simulcast will be in the April 21st issue that hits the streets on the 18th. I hope you’ll be sure to pick up copies and learn about these events if you didn’t get to be there. OR even if you were there – you can read about it any way!

According to the calendar we just hit spring recently – but here in El Paso we’re already having summer weather! I don’t mind it outdoors – but what I don’t like about it is that all the restaurants already have their air conditioning cranked at the highest level!

In case you’re interested – you can check The Messenger’s facebook page to view pictures of events we’ve been to. I always take lots of pictures, then only get to use one or two with the stories in the paper. So – as often as possible I’ll post all the pics on fb so that you can check in and review the fun that was had!

The next event we’ll be at is the Listen to the Sound Tour Concert with Building 429, Revive and Anthem Lights. Event is Friday, April 8th at Harvest Christian Center. Hope to see you there!

Until Next Time …..

posted March 25, 2011

Hope all has been going well with you, and that you have been enjoying the beautiful weather as much as I have! I guess I jumped ahead of myself several weeks – calling it Spring when actually Spring just hit!! In the newspaper business you are always working weeks ahead due to deadlines with the printer etc. So – a while back I had flipped through the calendar checking print deadlines etc out for the month ahead, saw first day of Spring on there – and in  my head thought we were already there!  Certainly the weather felt like it, so hope I didn’t throw anyone off too bad.

Well – in case anyone is wondering – NO I did not get around to doing any of the Spring cleaning I mentioned in the last post. Perhaps my body and subconcious mind knew it wasn’t actually Spring yet, so caused me to not have the time nor energy to accomplish any of it just yet.

Hope all you locals reading are planning on attending the Listen to the Sound Tour Christian concert on Friday, April 8th at 7:00 pm, at Harvest Christian Center. We have been SO incredibly blessed lately with all the awesome Christian concerts in El Paso and Las Cruces. So many fantastic events keeping us busy, and fellowshipping with other like minded believers. Hope to see you there.

Until Next Time,

posted March 7, 2009

Hope this finds you all doing well. Here in El Paso we have been having beautiful Spring weather, and I have been LOVING it! I’ve actually been getting the itch to do Spring cleaning, and emptying out of junk I should have gotten rid of years ago. Of course I haven’t had the time to do so – but have sure been wanting too! I only hope that once I do have the time, I will still have the itch. Pray for me – I really, really need to do some deep cleaning – and empty out years of things I’ve kept around. Is anyone else out there like this – have a hard time getting rid of things? I always have, so currently my shed, garage, storage room off the garage, and several closets are packed with things, that some I have not seen in years.

I watched a rerun of CSI the other night that involved a woman who was a “hoarder” and every inch of her home was filled almost floor to ceiling with stuff. I am in no way that bad of course – but many do call me a pack rat. Yes, partly because there are so many things I hate to get rid of from the past – but also because I never seem to have the time to go through it all and determine what to keep, what to throw away, and what could be given to others. BUT – I am determined to at least make a small dent in it during this “Spring cleaning” season. So – pray for me that the Lord will help me keep the urge to do it when I have the time open to do it.

Anyone else out there in the process of or about to tackle this type of project? Any advice on the best way to deal with it? Oh I know how to clean – that isn’t the problem. Problem is I have tons of stuff to go through, and decide what to keep and what to get rid of. And of course all of it will be things from mine and my kids’ past that I think we should have. Any tips, hints?? I’d love to hear from you.

Until next time,

posted February 19, 2011

Early once again with posting the new editorial for the February 24th issue, YAY!

I’m fresh back from my week long visit to my daughter, son-in-law, and grandkids Kelsey and Jacob. It was a glorious trip, and ended way too soon. I got to be there for Jacob’s first birthday, which was awesome – that was one thing I was so worried about when they moved away the end of December. I couldn’t imagine missing his first birthday.  So, it worked out I didn’t have to.

It was awesome spending the time with them, getting to love on the kids and play with them. We went to the Atlantic Ocean and enjoyed watching the water and the seagulls. Then went to the USS NORTH CAROLINA Battleship which is now docked there and made into a museum. That was an awesome tour and interesting learning more about World War II and the ship itself.

I backslid on my “diet”  of course, but enjoyed all the yummy food I hadn’t been eating for about six weeks or so. I was sure I had gained all 12 pounds I lost back, but was surprised to hit El Paso and weigh myself and find I had only gained three pounds. Well have to run

Until next time,

posted February 5, 2011

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY to my grandson Jacob Andrew Foix on Feb. 16th!

Whoo Hoo what do you know – getting the site updated early again, two issues in a row. Perhaps I’m finally on a roll. I’d love to hear from you all who sign on and read here. Let me know what you’d like to see on the site and perhaps we can do it. I’m not TOO knowledgeable about doing this, but I like to learn.

So …. like many other states and cities across the US, El Paso has been hit by an extreme winter storm. Compared with other places , it hasn’t been as bad – but for El Paso it has, since here we are not prepared for below zero temps and ice and snow, etc. So of course what comes with frigid temps is damage done to homes and businesses from frozen water pipes. I know several people personally who are experiencing such catastrophies at either their business or home, and one such friend who has it at both. Ay ay ay! At my home, we went without running water in the kitchen and laundry room for three days, but it finally thawed last night and I was finally able to wash dishes; and then did a load of laundry this morning. Thank God we still had running water in the bathrooms. I couldn’t deal with not being able to use the restroom, take a shower or brush my teeth! Praise God the frigid temps are behind us, it was above freezing today and in the sun feels wonderful, after the blowing wind, and single digit to below zero temps.

Thanks to my son-in-law Andrew, and daughter, Jenna who bought me plane tickets – I get to go visit them from Feb 10th to the 17th. I am so excited. I will get to be there for Jacob’s 1st birthday, and for Valentine’s Day with my precious grandbabies. I had been so concerned when they moved to Fort Bragg, NC on Dec. 27th that I would have to miss Jacob’s 1st birthday. That just seemed soooo wrong! But, PTL Jenna called me I think within a week after they left and said they were buying me tickets to fly there. I can’t say how much that means to me. Although they’ve only been gone just over a month, it seems like much longer to me.

I hope all of you reading are keeping safe and warm. I’d love to hear any comments, suggestions, complaints etc. All you have to do is email me at media4him@yahoo.com or click on the POST button at the bottom of the screen and submit something here for me.

Until next time,

posted January 22, 2011

Wow – you’ll be  as shocked as I am that this issue is getting updated on the site this early. Just finished all the proofing and in process uploading to printer ftp site. And …. drum roll ….. I just got done updating all the content…. all that is left is this message.

Hope the New Year is coming in wonderful for you all. I’d really like to hear from some of you if you’ve made any new goals, resolutions, or life changes. It could help someone in the same boat. So I hope you’ll consider it.

My daughters family, I mentioned moving to Ft. Bragg – is doing very well there. They really love their home, and the area they live. So that has eased a bit of my pain of them leaving, but I miss them terribly. I know there are many of you out there who experience the same thing – if you’d like to share your story about your grandkids moving etc., email me at media4him@yahoo.com I’d love to hear from you. Let me know when/if sending if it is for “my eyes only”  or if I can share it in the paper.

I hope you’ll enjoy this issue of The Messenger. If you have any story ideas email me and possibly you’ll see it in an upcoming issue.

Until next time,

posted January 9, 2011

HAPPY NEW YEAR new each of you reading! I pray that 2011 will be the best year ever for all of you, for myself and for The Messenger. I’m sure that many of you out there have made some kind of resolution, goal, life change, etc. to begin with the new year. Are there any of you who would be willing to email or mail in your decision, and how you plan/hope to succeed at it? I know this at times can be frightening, BUT – how many times do you read something somewhere and you think to yourself, “wow, that sounds just like me.” ? And many times the story you are reading, somehow helps you with something, right? Well, you could be an inspiration to someone else. If you would be willing to share your life change decision with our readers, please email or snail them to me, and I will publish it in an upcoming issue. Email to: media4him@yahoo.com or snail mail to: The Messenger, PO Box 3367, El Paso, TX, 79923.  If you didn’t make one, but you know someone who did and you think theirs would help our readers – ask them to send it in.

Once again I must apologize for the lateness of the updating of this site. It has gotten harder and harder to keep up with. If you are jumping on here now, you will be able to view – finally – the last five issues, that I just updated tonight. With Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year holidays bringing early deadlines, family plans and all that comes with a holiday, it caused me to get further and further behind. So …. as I said, I apologize, and I hope that you will enjoy catching up and reading the online content of some of the info from the last five issues. Remember, if you want to catch ALL the content of each issue you can subscribe to have each issue delivered directly to your home. AND, you would be taking your part in supporting this ministry and helping us to  provide this paper to Christians and non-believers alike.

Again, I pray this year, 2011 will be the best yet for each of you, and that the Lord willing it will be the best yet for The Messenger. Please keep this ministry in your prayers.

Until next time,

posted October 30, 2010

I apologize to everyone who is used to coming on the site reading info prior to the publication printing. I have had major issues with my computer and each time I tried to update the site with the info from last issue (Oct. 21) I would have problems. So I finally decided to just try back later. Well, I totally fogot! I got so wrapped up in the final preparations for Operation Outreach that any thoughts of updating this site was totally wiped from my mind. They say the memory is the first to go once you turn 50, eh?!  No, I won’t blame it on age. I just have had so much to do, and everything done on the computer takes 10 times longer than it should right now. But – I’ve just completed updating so that the info from Oct. 21st issue AND Nov. 4th issue is now up.

You’ll read in my column for the Nov. 4th issue – the Lord has blessed me with angels on earth who have gotten together and ordered my a new laptop so that I can continue this work in a more efficient and effective manner!! Praise God. This is a HUGE answer to prayer, believe you me!  The laptop was ordered, and came in on Friday (yesterday) but one of the angels is having their IT guy install some software and check it over etc before they give it to me. Since I will be delivering papers Monday and Tuesday, I won’t see it until Wednesday. But it should make working on the next issue and all future ones much easier, and faster to produce. Amen!

I am writing this on October 30th so it is Operation Outreach EVE. I hope that everyone reading this will be sure to come out and enjoy the afternoon with us. It should be a wonderful day. We’re having two Christian bands: Elevation, which is from El Paso. They plan contemporary Christian music much like you’d hear on KLOVE. The featured band is, Doug Hallock and Broken. They are considered a recovery band, and are from Tucson, AZ.  Doug writes all the lyrics and music to their songs. Since this is a recovery based outreach to the community, as a recovery band they will be a huge asset. You can check them out on facebook – enter Doug Hallock and Broken, you can do the same in Google to get to their website.

Well, until next time,

Be Blessed

posted October 1, 2010

Wow – here I am updating the site and it’s waaaay early! For for all you early birds checking the site you’ll be surprised to see that the October 7th info is on the site already.

We’re having such beautiful Fall weather, it makes it so nice to be outside. I’ve taken to doing my morning Bible reading outside on the front porch since it is so cool now. The only problem is that I enjoy it so much that I want to just sit and read away, and that would be awesome ….. but I do need to get on with my day. But what a great way to start the day – engrossed in the Word, and now also enjoying the wonderful cool morning air.

What the Fall has NOT done as of yet – is stunted the growth of the grass and weeds in the cracks in my driveway and front and back yard sidewalks. Aye! How do the rest of you deal with this? I sure wish someone would give me ideas how to kill them. I look up and down my street and see so many homes with same amount of cracks in the concrete – but no grass or weeds. I never see or hear anyone out there cutting, chopping and hacking away at them like I have to every other week end. PLUS on top of all that each time I do it I spray with grass and weed killer! But – this only tends to feed the grass and weeds and make them stronger, and spread more. What’s up with that? Anyone out there got any solutions for me? I NEED to know before I go insane with this.

Last Saturday I was only able to spend time on the front, so now have to work on the back tomorrow. It will be so hard because I wore a blister on top of a blister last week while chopping away. It was so hot that day, and I had to struggle so much with the tough weeds out in the road (yes – I go all out and even clear the grass and weeds that grow in the cracks in the road in front of my house) that my heart was pounding so hard, and my vision was blurry. I got so frustrated worrying that I would die there – doing something I hated doing so dearly! I know I have to die one day – but I hope and pray when I do it will either be in my sleep OR doing something I enjoy – not while doing the thing I hate most in the world – yardwork!!

Pray for me – that the Lord will help me overcome this hatred of yardwork! I’ve lived in this house five years now – and the yard work gets worse and worse each year.  So …… I need much prayer.

I hope that all you reading are having a better time of it than I. Take care and please send in any suggestions if you have them. I appreciate any thoughts and suggestions available.

Until next time,

posted September 23, 2010

Hmmm early last issue, late this issue.  What a hectic week. Currently I’m sitting at my daughters house with the kids as they sleep, while Jenna is at the airport to pick Andrew up. Yes, he’s finally coming home after a year in Korea. But he only gets to stay for one week, then he’s off to Virginia. But how exciting for them all to be reunited once again, even if for just a short time.

So …. I’m working with a friend, Bob Cossel planning Operation Outreach 2010. This is an event organized as a recovery outreach for El Paso to Las Cruces. The event will be held at Cohen Stadium, on Sunday, October 31st.  So far there is to be two Christian bands to play, one from El Paso – Elevation; the other from Tucson – Broken. There is now also a Christian comedian scheduled to appear – Mike Warnke. This will also be a Halloween alternative with candy for the kids. I hope you’ll all come out and check it out. It will end with a large cardboard testimony, we’re hoping to set a record  – but we don’t yet know what the largest one has been. If you have recovered from something – a hurt, habit or hangup and would be willing to take part in the cardboard testimony – please contact me at 329-0824 and we’ll get you on the list, and get back to you with the details.

If you or someone you know is struggling with something in your life such as alcohol, drugs, pornography, gambling, sex addiction, eating disorders, relationship problems, PTSD, co-dependency, etc. I hope you’ll come and bring them along. There will be many outreach resources on hand with information that can help you.

We are in great need of sponsors to help us cover the costs of the event. Individuals or businesses can donate. We are need of financial donations as well as door prizes and candy. If you can help in one of these ways, contact me at 329-0824 or email me at media4him@yahoo.com.

Well, Jenna and Andrew just walked in from the airport – as soon as baby Jacob heard Jenna’s voice he woke up crying. Andrew went in to get him, it was so neat to see them together. Andrew was able to come home from Korea for a few weeks when Jacob was born, since then they’ve only seen each other through webcam – thank God for that. I will be leaving here soon, headed for home, but I sure would love to see Kelsey’s face when she sees her daddy. But, she’s a sound sleeper so will not get to see him till morning. What a surprise it will be for her when she gets up at 6:00 am to ready herself for school.

Keep their family in your prayers, as this week will go quickly and they will soon be parted again. At least this time it will only be two months. But then ….. it will be bad for me, because the family will move to Fort Bragg. That will be the furthest they’ve been from me. It’ll be hard, but I know the Lord will watch over them.

Until next time,

posted September 4, 2010

Ha! What do you know? I am here updating the site and it’s only been “put to bed” earlier today, and sent via FTP site to the printer. Due to Labor Day on Monday, the paper will not print this time until Tuesday morning. So, I am forced to go ahead and take the day off! It will be strange, but nice. I have worked every holiday except Christmas, Thanksgiving and Easter since starting the paper in October ’07.  So, I guess I should take advantage of this forced day off and enjoy.

The weather has been so awesome the past few days, it makes it such a joy to be outside when you need/have to be. I always enjoy the Fall when the weather is changing. It’s so amazing how the Lord made the seasons, and how He has all the changes take place between the seasons. In El Paso we don’t experience all the changes that we did in Illinois, but you can certainly tell the differences. I do miss the changes that took place in the leaves on the trees, everything turning to pretty oranges and reds, before turning to brown and falling to the ground. You see that a little here, but not much and not often. However, each year the weather in El Paso turns more and more like it is in Illinois. Do you ever sit and ponder the unique way God has created the seasons and the changes within them? If not, take some time to sit outside in the coolness of this current weather, close your eyes and allow your mind to wander on the wonder of the Lord’s creation – this earth, and then about the seasons and how He has caused the transitions from one to another. Amazing.

Well – this weekend is Labor Day week-end. Many businesses will be closed, most of you will unite with family or friends for cook-outs, swim parties, for some a last hoorah for what was the summer season. We need to lift our thanks to the Lord for the ability to celebrate Labor Day. We need to be thankful for our ability to work, to have jobs, and to be paid fair wages. In so many countries people work much harder than most in the US for merely a few dollars a day, and less. As much as some here dread going to work – we should remind ourselves that we were blessed to be born Americans and can earn a decent living.

Enjoy your time off, and be blessed by your jobs.

Until next time,

posted August 27, 2010

Sorry to all who’ve been checking in – that I am just now getting the site updated from the August 26th issue. To some it may seem I’m just one day late, since I am writing on the 27th. However, the paper prints and begins distributing on the Monday prior to pub date, so this issue was out starting the 23rd.  This has been a crazy week, so I just realized about a half hour ago that I had not done the updating yet. So, alas – I am sitting at Nothing But Noodles – stopped in to get some Iced Tea and update the site while waiting for my next appointment. Ahhhh the wonders of technology. I just love my little Cricket USB internet This enables me to hop on the internet anywhere I want, provided that Cricket service is available.

I believe all school’s are now in session, here in El Paso any way. I know we have readers in other state’s who have schools starting as late as the 2nd week in September.  Those of you who have school children, I hope they are in the swing of things and that things at their school are going well. I mentioned last time my Kelsey girl started back some weeks ago as she is in a year round school. She’s already had teachers switched on her, as the district was low on teachers at another school. She’s adjusted well to the change though. This is a difficult thing for many kids, but thank God she adapts easily to new things and surroundings. Help me keep her in prayer please, as she is scheduled for her next appointment with the urologist on September 1st, I believe.

I’m helping out with planning of a wonderful outreach event to take place at Cohen Stadium on October 31st. We’re hoping to draw people from El Paso to Las Cruces and any where around and in between! Keep watching the paper and postings here for more information.  If you or someone you know (and we all know them) are struggling with any issues such as from alchol, drugs, gambling, pornography, eating disorders, relationship problems etc. This event will be the place to be. You/they can come to hear an amazing recovery band “Broken” from Tuscon, AZ. They will sing and share their testimonies or their own recovery. We plan to have other means of entertainment, and this is being planned as a family event. Come enjoy the event, and also learn how you or those you love can take part in many types of programs to help in recovery. This is a FREE event so there is no reason not to come!! Since this falls on Halloween – and most Christians do not celebrate Halloween we’re also hoping this will be an alternative event for the families. So – we will need help with donations of candy, small lunch bags, scripture tracts, etc. that we can give to the children who attend. Any leftover will be donated to a local charity.

Until next time,

May you be blessed

posted August 7, 2010

Summer is nearing its end and school beginning, some have already started and others slowly through end of the month. My precious Kelsey started back earlier this week. She’s now in all day kindergarten and I believe really enjoying it. I know it’s a 50/50 split most likely with kids being happy to be back to school, and others dreading it. But it will be nice to have an end to Summer – the high temps etc. I’ll especially be glad when the weather gets such that the grass and weeds stop growing so fast. It seems that is all I get done is pulling, and chopping them out of the cracks in my sidewalks and driveway.  I am so not the yard work type of person. I guess if I didn’t have so much other stuff to do it wouldn’t be so bad, but it takes so much time away from my other work that it really disgusts me becomes so frustrating. While I love the green grass etc. I long for the days of cooler weather, and less yard work.

My kids, grandkids and I went on vacation recently. We took a road trip home to Illinois to visit our friends and family. My precious Kelsey is a great traveler so she is always awesome in the car. But my precious Jacob is not a good traveler – he hates being in the car! Poor guy was miserable most of the time.

We had such a great time running around catching up with old friends, family and church family. We were on the go pretty much the whole time. It was such a much needed time away. I am so thankful the Lord worked things out so that I could make this trip. I was afraid to take the trip in the beginning because I was leary to leave work behind. Many people have been telling me for quite some time that I needed time away. But I felt I had to devote myself fully to the business.  I knew that the Lord wants us to rest, but guess I felt it was intended for others and not me. I finally had to realize that I am not excluded in this, but was still leary to take the time away. I worked hard weeks prior to leaving to complete work ahead of time, which I’ve done in the past, but normally still felt stressed and worried about being away. But – the Lord filled me with total peace while away. I was amazed at how calm and peaceful I was the entire time I was gone. I know this was totally from the Lord.

Miracles happen all around us at all times, and it is so awesome when we get to be a part of them ourselves. God provided many miracles on our trip, if interested you can read about a few in my column for the August 12th issue “From His Messenger”.

I hope you all have enjoyed your Summer, and if you’re like me and looking forward to the cooler months – hang in there!

Until next time,

from July 20, 2010

New  as of today, is the ability to click on a link and open and view the complete pages of the newspaper.  I’ve uploaded the last two issues, July 8th and July 22nd. Go to the options listed down the left side of the page, click on “Current issue pdf file”, once that page opens you will see links in blue with the date of the issues that are available. I will continue to add the pdf files for new issues as I receive them.

Many of you have told me that you tell friends and family about this site so that they can check out the editorial that has been listed for each issue. Be sure to let friends and family now know that they will now have access to all the content from each issue, by clicking on the links mentioned above.  If you contact any of the advertisers once viewing their ads on this site, please let them know that you saw them on The Messenger’s web site.

Last SaturdayI spent 7 1/2 hours pulling weeds/grass that had grown in what should be a flower bed, and up along the fence, and in cracks in the sidewalk.  It rainded on me several times as I was doing it, which would help cool me off and get the sweat off of me. I am NOT a yard work person. Actually, it is likely one of my least favorite things to do. But – it needed done, and there was no on to do it for me. So, after 7 1/2 hours the job was complete ….. and I sat back in wonder of how different the whole back yard looked once it was done.

So this Saturday it was the front yard’s turn for grooming.  I spent about 4 hours chopping and pulling the weeds/grass that was growing once again out of all the cracks in the driveway and sidewalks. I don’t know what is worse, the chopping and pulling or the sweeping up and disposing.  Again, when I was done I sat and marvelled at how pretty it looked.

So now the front yard, driveway and sidewalks look beautiful; but already the backyard weeds and grass have grown at least 6 inches. The very next day after ridding it of the weeds I noticed new ones coming up. By day three they were probably 3 inches tall. Now – 6 maybe more. It is so frustrating that it can’t just stay beautiful after the first time you’ve weeded and cleaned it up.

As I sat looking at the back and front yards as I completed each one – I imagined how God felt when He was done with His 6 days of creating. After each creation the Bible comments that God saw that it was good. I can imagine Him taking pause to look at what He created that day, and thinking “Wow this looks nice.”  Much as I did after completing my yards. Except of course on a much larger scale. He created all there is, and was pleased with what He’d done.  And just as I am disappointed in seeing the weeds come back and “uglying” up my yard again – how much more so the Lord must be each time He sees the ways His creation is being misused, abused and destroyed.

It must break His heart when He sees someone polluting the land, water, and sky. His beautiful creation given to man. And more so when He sees how people pollute and damage their bodies with the harmful things they do. Again, His beautiful creation….. He created us in His own image.  It breaks my heart to think of all I’ve done over the years to harm His creation – the earth and myself. It saddens me to know that I’ve been responsible for breaking His heart.  But thank the Lord, that over the years He “weeded” my life, until it was more in line with what He wanted. He does it for each of us, who have accepted Him and given our lives to Him. He continues to weed, prune and rid us of the things not desired in us.  Again I can imagine Him each time, sitting back and saying, “This is lookin’ good.”

If you don’t yet know Him – I hope you will consider asking the Heavenly Father to come into your heart and life. You don’t have to make big changes in your life before you can accept Him. As the old hymn, “Just As I Am” so proudly states – you can come to Him just as you are in this momet. He loves you, and accepts you just as you are. He will help you to make any changes needed in your life. It won’t happen all at once, it will happen over time, just as a gardener weeds and prunes the garden.

If you have previously accepted Him, but have fallen away, or gotten into things you know you shouldn’t have – He is willing to weed and prune you again, and help to get your heart right with Him.  No matter what you’ve done – you are His child. He loves you and wants you back.

No matter where you stand now – I hope that you will let the Lord come in and be the gardener of your life. He will clean you up and make you into that beautiful creation He knows you to be. His mighty handiwork.

Until next time,

Be blessed.

posted July 12, 2010

With so much going on I am finding it harder and harder to keep up with updating this site. Unfortunately I find myself now a week late in updating the info for the July 8th issue. I apologize to any who have been checking for the updated information. Now that I am here I also see that although I did get the last issue info posted in a decent time – I never got back to it to write on this post. Again, I apologize to those who have stated that they enjoy keeping up with this.

In El Paso we are experiencing our Monsoon season so are having a lot of rain. I enjoyed a few times this past week sitting on the front porch reading my Bible in the morning while the rain was falling. How peaceful and relaxing it was. How soothing it was with the patter of the rain that was to nourish the land, as the Word was nourishing my soul. The Lord has been showing me much lately and I am so grateful for my faith, and that I can be assured that He is here with me at all times. I can’t imagine going through all the struggles of life without Him walking through it all with me, and at times His having to carry me when I haven’t the strength to walk it. My prayer is that each of you who may be reading this also have the knowledge, and that you too are walking through this life with the Lord in your heart and by your side. If you don’t know Him – I pray that something you read on this site, or in the hard copy of the paper will help you on your journey to seeking and finding Him.

If you have questions – please click on the ASK tab and read through the different questions that have been submitted for our panel of Christian Leaders. Many are posted on that page just continue to scroll down reading until you reach the end. Hopefully – these are some of the questions you’ve had yourself and the answers will help you.

For any of you who are fans of The Messenger, meaning that you enjoy it, and watch for it, and read each issue – won’t you consider supporting the ministry? You can subscribe for yourself, friends, family, co-workers etc. Make it a gift that keeps on giving. Others have gotten subscriptions for people who don’t yet know the Lord, praying that the recipient will allow it to plant seeds in their hearts.

I would be so grateful for any support that will come in to help run this ministry and keep the paper around reaching Christians, as well as those who have not yet accepted the Lord. This is an important tool for outreach and you can play a part in that outreach.

Until next time,

posted June 11, 2010

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my son-in-law Andrew, and my daughter Jenna. Andrew on June 11th and Jenna on June 12th. I wish the two of you could be together to celebrate your birthdays – but surely you will be next year – since the Army seems to let Andrew be in the states every other year

WOW my life has been crazy. I was never able to post anything here with the information from the last issue, and I was late posting the information from that issue. I just wasn’t able to keep up with it all.

I was sick for four weeks, so it was hard to even get the last issue completed. But it made it and I am on the road to recovery. I was feeling much better for a few days and then I had to do more yard work and now I am feeling the complications again. I guess I am developing major allergies the longer I am in El Paso.  A doctor told me shortly after moving here almost 11 years ago that most people that move to El Paso from the Midwest develop allergies because such a shift in climate, humidity etc. Guess he was right. Pray for me please so that I won’t get as sick this time around. The previous bout kicked my butt, I can’t handle that again so soon.

Happy Father’s Day to any fathers who may be reading. I hope that you will be spending that day with your family enjoying the love of your children. For those of you like me whose father has passed away – I offer my condolences. This holiday is a tough one for me, not having him here to celebrate with – to honor and thank him. I know it’s also a hard one for those whose fathers have not been a part of your life.  For you, I hope the knowledge that the Lord is your heavenly Father and He ALWAYS wants to be part of your life.  I hope this fact will help the day go a little smoother for you.

I would appreciate your prayers for financial assistance for this ministry. If you own a business please consider supporting the paper with your advertising dollars. It doesn’t have to be anything huge – anything helps.

God Bless you all – until next time …..

posted May 6, 2010

I’m behind on getting my message posted here – however – all the other content was posted by May 1st. All except this message and the answers to the quiz from the May 6th issue, which are now also posted. If  you are reading this and do not have a copy of the paper for the quiz questions and would like to take the quiz – either comment at the bottom of this page, or email me at media4him@yahoo.com and I will email you the questions. Just don’t look at the answers first if that is what you are going to do. In the subject line of your email put “Quiz Questions” so that I will not it is not junk mail.

I’d like to wish all the moms out there a HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY! Hopefully most of you will be sharing the day with your moms, or your own children or both. And for those who don’t have children, or have lost your moms – I hope that you will spend the day with family or other people that you love and who love you. It’s an important day – a celebration to the woman who gave us life. Of course the Lord is who ultimately gave us life – but it is our mothers who carried us in her womb for 9 months – for most of us any way.  What a huge responsibility it is to be a mom. It is the most difficult job any of us could ever have, while being the most fulfilling and memory filled possible.  Being a mom is a wonderful blessing for me. And one of the neatest things about being a mom is that eventually your kids grow up and give you grandkids! So to all out there who are dealing with toddlers, or teenagers and you feel out of sorts most of the time – hang in there it does get better.  And then one day those children of yours will present you with grandbabies. And then you will find yourself enjoying many of the things that stressed you out with your own children. I guess it’s all part of that knowing they aren’t yours and you get to give them back idea!  It’s just such a miraculous thing to hold them and know that they are children of your children – to me that is just such an awesome feeling. To hold them and know that they are my blood – yet I didn’t have to give birth to them!

Any way – Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms.  And to the dads – make sure you do something extra special for her – she gave you children – now you owe her   just kidding. But plan a nice day to celebrate her any way.

I’d also like to wish my daugher and son in law a HAPPY ANNIVERSARY. It won’t be a happy one this year since they are apart as Andrew is in Korea – but I wanted to wish the best any way. Their anniversary is May 9th, which this year also falls on Mother’s Day.

Until we meet again,

Posted April 18, 2010

We are living in difficult times. I’m sure I don’t have to tell you that. Just this week I’ve learned of so many people hurting – physically, mentally, financially, relationally – you name it.  Every where we turn there is some one in pain of some kind. People are grieving the loss of a loved one; under stress due to deployment of a spouse; children and grandchildren diagnosed with extreme illnesses; struggling in school – the whole gambit of stress and pain. For me as one person to personally know so many who are struggling, or to be contacted via the paper about struggles – certainly makes you wonder how we can survive.

Of course the answer is Jesus. That is how we survive. In every illness, every struggle, every crises – Jesus is the answer. We most often never understand why we must suffer, or go through the trials that we do. But the Lord has a purpose for each and every one of us – young and old alike.  Often times it doesn’t seem that way, we don’t understand how the bad things in life could be part of our purpose. But we must trust that the Lord knows what He is doing. As difficult as it is – and believe me – I know it can be hard – we MUST trust it to Jesus and believe that He will carry us through. He is our Counselor, Redeemer, and Friend. He is our Heavenly Father and loves us with a love we can’t even comprehend. When the person in our life that is in pain or suffering is our child or grandchild – we must remember that as much as we love them – He loves them even more than we do.  So we can lift them up to Him and trust that He will do what’s best. Not always what we ask – but what is in His perfect will.

I’ve had to remind myself of these truths many, many times over the past few months. There’s been much struggling in my family over this time. Medical issues with my precious grandkids Kelsey and Jacob, and with my daughter Jenna.  Many people in my extended family  undergoing chemotherapy, surgeries, and other serious medical conditions.  Many of us with financial troubles. It all gets to be more than we can take. Things that “Calgon take me away” just can’t handle.  But there is someone that we can turn to that will be there for us any time of the day or night with an open ear to listen to our cries. I am so thankful for that. I know I couldn’t make it through a single day without Him. I don’t always understand why things have to be the way they are – but I can rest assured that if I never know that while here on earth, one day I will be privy to all the answers when I’m in my home in Heaven with the Lord.

Thank You Jesus for loving me;  for being there for me in my darkest hours. I need You with me at all times.  I love You Lord and strive to be the person you want me to be. Amen.

This is my prayer, I hope it is yours as well. If you are struggling through something right now – I hope you’ve given it to the Lord so that He can help you through it. If not – won’t you take the time to talk with Him about it now? You’ll be glad you did.

Until we meet again,

Posted April 4, 2010

As I write this, Easter Sunday is nearing an end. I trust that you each had a wonderful Resurrection Sunday wherever you may be.  Here in El Paso, it was an absolutely beautiful day.  As all holidays during our 10 1/2 years in El Paso, it made us miss our extended family – but my kids Shawne and Jenna, and two of my grandkids Kelsey and Jacob all shared the afternoon together. Jenna and the kids went to church with me, while Shawne was home sleeping after working all night. I cooked all day and evening on Saturday to have most of the meal out of the way to have less to do after church. It was a wonderful meal, and we all ate too much, naturally.

After the meal, we had an egg hunt for Kelsey. Shawne hid the eggs in the yard, and Kelsey excitedly ran all around seeking them out.  It was so precious, after finding every single egg she held it up and exclaimed, “I found another egg!” She put them all in her bucket and couldn’t wait to come inside to find out what treats awaited inside each one. I had bought the eggs at Lifeway and hadn’t realized at the time that they had hard candies inside. So once we had them inside we switched the candy out for softer more appropriate candy. Evidently the eggs had been intended for a little older children. But – she was pleased with the M & M’s, twizzlers, and duck & rabbit shaped marshmellows that we refilled the eggs with.

Once that was all done – I gave Kelsey and Jacob their Easter baskets from me.  As Jacob is only 6 1/2 weeks old his mommy had to go through his basket for him. But Kelsey dug into hers with no trouble at all.

The time came for Jenna, Kelsey & Jacob to leave and head to Grandma Cris’ house. While Jenna got things packed up, and loaded the car I had Kelsey sit on my lap while I read her the Resurrection story from the Bible.  She loves for me to read to her. Sometimes she  just sits and listens intently through the whole book or story that I read to her. While others, she asks questions every other sentence. Today was one of those times. When I got to the point in the story about Simon being appointed to carry the cross for Jesus, as soon as I read Simon’s name, right away Kelsey said, “Simon? But Simon’s a chipmunk!” and giggled saying, “You know, Alvin, Simon & Theodore.” She continued giggling as I tried to explain that this Simon was here more than 2000 years before Simon the Chipmunk. From there on out most of the time it was hard to get her to keep her mind on the story. Eventually she did settle down and pay attention. By the time I was done she said, “Yea Jesus died on a cross for us.”   Such a precious girl she is.  At just 5 1/2 years old she really seems to get it. I couldn’t be more thrilled.

It’s too bad that everyone doesn’t get it. Grown adults walk around doubting that the Bible is true. It’s hard to believe that there are actually people who think that we just happened to be – they don’t believe the Lord is the creator of everything.  They’d rather believe that the earth just always was, and that people evolved from apes.  I feel sorry for them. I pray for them. I can’t imagine going through life thinking my distant relatives were monkeys, and that there was nothing to look forward to for eternity. Or to  not know that the Lord is there for them in every time of trouble, pain and sorrow.

It is a known fact that more people attend church on Easter and Christmas than on any other day of the year. My prayer today is that there were many people in church today – who got the message. Not just who was present, or heard. But who really GOT the message. Because if they did – they turned their lives over to the Lord today – and they are now my brothers and sisters in Christ, and are yours too if you know Christ. It stands to reason that if there were many more people in church today – that the percentage of those accepting the Lord today should also have been higher. Praise God for all those who accepted Him today.  And for all who didn’t – all we can do is to continue to pray for them.

I hope that you all had a glorious day today on this Easter Sunday. And may we all remember that it can be Resurrection day every day in our hearts.

Until next time,

posted March 28, 2010

I’ve been struggling recently with how my precious Kelsey girl is treated at school by her little preK classmates. Naturally, as parents and/or grandparents it bothers us when our little ones are treated poorly. Kelsey tells me things that are said and done to her at school and it breaks my heart. On many occasions she has stayed the night at my house on a school night and I then am the one that takes her to school in the morning. It breaks my heart each time to leave her there in a line with children that ignore and snub her like she is dirt.  Or when she tells me that one of the boys in her class always calls her a cow, or that one little girl always asks to see her underwear; or how one day a little girl purposely pushed her off  the monkey bars. Remember – these kids are only in preK!!

This all bothers me for obvious reasons. But, it pains me in another way. As a child I was raised to not be prejudiced against other races; I in turn raised my kids to not be racist. But – with these children at Kelsey’s school it seems that they have not been raised the same way. Things that are being said are not the usual lingo of young children. They are picking it up from the adults or older youths in their families. The snubbing of her as if she isn’t good enough to be in their presence is certainly something picked up from those much older than themselves.

This scenario is really nothing new – it’s an age old problem from the days of old. Many cultures feel prejudiced against when they are the minority. It is never right for any one race to feel they are any less valuable than another. God created us one and all, and He created us each in His own image. He loves us all, and does not value or choose any race or culture over another. We are ALL His children.

I wish that the children in Kelsey’s class understood this. I don’t want her school year memories  to be marred with the remembrance of poor treatment and name calling. All because she sticks out like a sore thumb with her pale white skin and blondish hair.

I tried to help Kelsey in an effort to build a relationship with these little ones by purchasing neat little trinkets and lots of candy at Valentine’s Day and making them each a nice goody bag. Then sent her to school with the bags and cupcakes for the party. I truly thought that this would change the hearts and minds of the children – but – it was not meant to be. The children accepted their gifts, but continue their hatefulness to today. It’s so hard for me to think of her there every day. But – I am so thankful to the Lord that He has given Kelsey such a calm spirit. She doesn’t let it get her down. She continues to love school and look forward to going each day. What hurts too is that when she tells me of the things said and done to her, she says it as if there is nothing wrong with it. I worry that she will come to believe she deserves this treatment, or that it is normal. Because it is anything but normal.

It is difficult for me as an adult in her life to not involve myself in the situation. At times it is all I can do to keep myself from asking for all the parents names so that I could try to meet with them and ask that they talk sense to their children. But – I know from experience with my own children – any time I involved myself that way it only made matters worse. So I’m sure it would be even worse now since we are the minority in El Paso. Thank God this treatment of Kelsey isn’t the norm everywhere. As I write this, Kelsey and I are and have been at the Burger King on Zaragoza where she has been playing her heart out in the indoor playroom. During all this time many, many children have come and gone. Only one other little girl has had the same pale skin as Kelsey. Yet not one child has treated either of them poorly. They’ve just all played together as if there were no differences – just as it should be.

I want Kelsey’s school years to be filled with fond memories and lots of friends that perhaps she will have for life. Any suggestions for me on how to handle the current situation at her school? If you do – I’d love to hear them and could also publish them in an upcoming issue so that other parents and grandparents can read your advice in case they are in this same predicament. It’s hard to stand idly by and let these children feel they have a right to demean her in this way. But will I cause more harm by trying to speak with them and/or their parents about it?

Posted March 7, 2010 

Whew – yet another time that I am managing to get the site updated early!  Not an easy task to manage but yet here I am. For those of you who visit the site frequently, I hope you’ll notice the two new tabs at the left side of the page. The first, titled “Heaven is the face video” if you’ve not familiar with the song, or seen the video yet be sure to click on it – you’ll be glad you did. The second, titled “Trivia Contest” is for the new Christian Music Trivia contest that has been announced in the March 11th issue. This will be a blog site only contest.

Each issue I will post a new Trivia question regarding a Christian music artist. Anyone who submits a correct response on the page will be included in that issues random drawing for one of the many Christian music CD’s I have accumulated for this purpose. We will run this contest until I run out of the Cd’s I’ve acquired at recent local concerts. Currently the stash includes several from each of these artists: Chozen, Sonic Flood, and Doug Hallock & Broken. The Chozen and Sonic Flood Cd’s have even been autographed. I hope this will be something fun for you, and that you will tell all your friends to head to the site and try their hand also at answering the questions  and getting a chance to when a Cd for themselves.

Things are going wonderfully with baby Jacob. He had a doctor’s appointment Friday, March 5th and now weighs 8 lbs 1 oz. He’s doing a great job nursing and Jenna couldn’t be more thrilled. My Kelsey girl had a doctor’s appointment on Friday – which was supposed to be for them to draw blood and run tests, but the doctor decided to wait another week since she had been sick. They’ll also be doing a urine analysis. Kelsey has been sick at least once per month since she was about two years old. But since their being back in El Paso (Sept) she has been sick much more frequently. The tests are mostly to rule things out, not necessarily because they suspect anything at this point. Please join my family in praying that they will be able to determine the cause of these illnesses very quickly, that it will be nothing major, and that there will be some easy cure for her to help her be a healthy girl with no more frequent illnesses. Most preferably – that the Lord will heal her miraculously of anymore illness.

Until next time ….

posted February 25, 2010 

Yea – you guessed it – my grandson is finally here!  Our new bundle of joy was born Tuesday, February 16th at 4:10 pm just one day after his due date.  Of course I think he is one of the most precious things in the world! To me he looks like his sister – my precious Kelsey, with the exception that he has dark hair and darker skin tone more like his daddy.

It was such a thrill for me to once again be there to witness the birth of my grandson, as I was with Kelsey.  I say it often and I will say it yet again “I have always loved being a mom – but there is nothing better than being a grandma!”  I am so thankful that Jenna and Andrew have allowed me both times to be in the room with them during this most precious of times – to watch these beautiful little people come into the world.  Any of you other grandparents out there that also witnessed your grandchild’s birth – you know EXACTLY what I am talking about.

As I was watching little Jacob’s head come out – and I saw his precious face and dark hair – I was so filled with excitement, that there was yet another little one in our bloodline. And my mind flashed quickly to imagining what Mary and Joseph thought and felt as Mary gave birth to her first child – Jesus.  As with any birth – the parents are excited and filled with pride as they bring this little child into the world – but how much more so exciting for Mary and Joseph. Imagine – lying in labor and giving birth not to just your child, but to the Messiah, the King above all kings; the Saviour of the world!

While Jenna and Andrew stayed in the hospital, Kelsey came to stay with me. It’s always so much fun to have her. But – it sure isn’t like it used to be It used to be that she could be here, and I could still work a little and play with her, then work a little, etc. But – no more. There is no way to get anything done with a five year old around! But we had a lot of fun. I would try to get some computer work done – but she wanted to be on my lap to play, or us to sing songs together. So we would do whatever she wanted for awhile, then she would want to watch a movie.  I would get that going for her,  and she would be fine as long as I watched along with her. But just as soon as I would try to get back to the computer – she was there on my lap in an instant wanting me to pay attention to only her!  Needless to say – I got absolutely nothing done – but we did have a great time together, and I do cherish every minute I can have with her. I knew it was important to show her all the affection and attention she wanted in case she was feeling a little left out because of all the excitement over the new baby.

We had all wondered how she was truly going to take having a new baby in the house. I think everyone in this position always wonders if the older sibling will be jealous, resentful etc. We were all certain that she would do just fine because she has always loved being around other babies. She seems to be doing just fine with it. She loves her little brother, enjoys helping with him.  However, the first time I was at their house and held Jacob, Kelsey got very quite and somewhat ignored me. I think she was a little jealous that her NaNa was showing attention to the baby. So – whenever I hold him and she is also present, I always get her attention and have her come by me and give him a kiss etc.  So, now she finally seems OK with me holding him. I remind her constantly how much I love her, and that she will always be my precious baby love.

Thanks so much to everyone who has contacted me to ask about the baby, and Jenna etc. And especially to those who have given gifts for baby Jacob – and several who have even given something for Kelsey. Your thoughtfulness and generosity is very much appreciated!

May God Bless each of you

Until Next Time …..

Posted February 6, 2010

Ha! For once I am hear early! Anyone jumping on the site now is getting the “Early Edition” as the paper won’t print until Monday, and it is only Saturday. I’m at the designer’s office and we are finalizing the pages for the issue – and decided I would update the site while I was waiting. This will help me a lot to have this part done and out of the way.

I’d love to hear from you – the readers, like what you like on this site – what you don’t, or what you’d like to see.  I originally started the site because people kept calling asking if there was a site they could refer people to to read the Ask Christian Leader questions.  Then eventually people were asking for other things and wishing there was an online version of the paper. So – no, there’s not – but this is as close as I can get for now. I hope you enjoy your time spent here, and that you make a point to read all the updated info each time. I assume that those who are reading the site are those who don’t or can’t pick up the paper somewhere nearby. So – pass on the address to all you know,  ask them to check out the site.

It’s getting closer to time for me to become a Grandma again! Andrew will be in from Korea next week, so anytime after he gets here – we’re all ready for baby Jacob to arrive.  It will be so nice to have a new baby around again.  Naturally I just love them! But I will make sure to continue to spoil my precious Kelsey girl. She’s my angel, and no matter what I believe she and I will be “tight” forever. That’s such a reassuring blessing.

Be sure to keep checking the site, and/or the paper for upcoming contests to win Christian CD’s from recent concerts I’ve been to, and books I’ve received for give-a-ways.

Until next time ……

Posted January 28, 2010

What crazy weather we’re having this week. We go from somewhat cold, to spring like weather, then to chances of snow – and today rainy and dreary. All in one week – and it’s only Thursday! Our lives can be as unpredictable as the weather, can’t it? We can be up one day – things couldn’t be better – and then boom – something happens and before we know it, it seems everything is going wrong.  That’s how it’s been for me lately.  We experience these things often, and many of us don’t realize that there are times that this is actually Spiritual Warfare. I know I’ve talked of this often in my column – but that’s because I am under attack quite often. It is nothing pleasurable to be sure – and nothing that any of us enjoy.

But – God’s Word tells us that when we are under attack it means that we are doing something right for the Lord, and it displeases satan so he attacks. Satan has no reason to attack those he has nothing to fear from. You know, the lost, or the cold Christian. But – when people are serving the Lord, he plans his attack in the hopes to side track or demolish the believers faith in the Lord.

I know I’m not alone in this. Are any of you reading – suffering under Spiritual Warfare at this time? All I can offer – is:

* Stand strong and firm in your faith

*Spend much time in the Word and in Prayer

*Enlist the prayers of any prayer warriors you know

As difficult as it is – believe me I know – just hang in there, believe and trust in the Lord to bring you through this. He loves you and I more than any of us can fathom. He cares about even the minutest detail in our lives. He knows the number of hairs on our heads. We are His children – so He wants what is best for us. He will be there with you through thick and thin. Although at times it feels we are all alone in our suffering – He is there.  It may feel like the world is crumbling all around you, and there is no light at the end of the tunnel – but with the Lord there is always that light at the end. He walks beside us and brings us through it. As difficult as it was at the time – in the end we are wiser, stronger, firmer in our faith, and closer to the Lord.  Which is often times why He allows our trials and tribulations.

I’m not saying it is easy, I know that it’s not. I have been experiencing this current attack for weeks now – and am beginning to see that light – as faint as it is – I know that it is there. I know without doubt He is right here beside me, and will be there with me in the end when the full glow of the light is apparent. One thing we must always remember is that it is not important what those of the world think of us – what matters most is what our Heavenly Father thinks, and knows of us. He knows us better than we know ourselves. There may be things in our lives that we wouldn’t want anyone else to know, scarred past, etc. But the Lord knows it all, every dirty detail, and He loves us any way.  What a blessing His unconditional love is.  I know I couldn’t make it through a day without His love, and knowing that He is with me at all times.

If you’re experiencing some kind of attack – lay it at our Saviors feet. Turn it over to Him and let Him help you deal with it. He WILL be there through it all.

Until next time,

posted January 14, 2010

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!  I just had to say that since I am here updating the site on my Mom’s birthday. I trust the Lord blessed you on this day – your special day. I wish that I could have crossed the 1500 miles to spend the day with you. I miss you, and love you.

Well HAPPY NEW YEAR Everyone. My prayer is that this New Year of 2010 will be the best yet for each and every one of us. I’m praying that this will be the year that the Lord takes The Messenger to new heights and that the visions He has given me for this paper will finally be brought to fruition. I know that it is in His timing, and I have to wait on Him and be patient, so I try my best to do that.

I’m praying that the Lord takes us each to new levels in our prayer lives, Bible study, our faith – our total walk in Him. We can lean on Him, depend on Him, and trust in Him at all times for everything. This isn’t always easy for us, but when we do it – He alone changes things. I’ve had to learn this the hard way many times throughout my life. As I grow older it is easier to take it all to Him, but I am not perfect so naturally there are times I realize that I am trying to solve everything on my own. I get so caught up in everything, so busy with all there is for me to do. I keep struggling, and things get more difficult. I find myself wondering, “why does this all have to be so hard?” Then it hits me – I’m trusting in my own strength and ability, and leaving God out of it.

This happens less and less as I continue to read my Bible each morning and start my day with Him. But recently, for one reason or another I missed my time alone with God for a couple days. Those were days that things kept creeping up, I kept finding myself feeling anxious, things weren’t going right, etc. By the end of these two days I KNEW that it was because of my missed Bible study and alone time with God. After the missed two days – I finally got back on track, and am back to keeping my morning appointments with God. I’m not saying that nothing ever goes wrong when I have this daily time with God – but life sure is easier to deal with when I have had the time with Him.

I’ve been mentioning it many times in my column in the paper and here in my blog – and I will bring it up once again. If you are not currently spending time alone with God and reading your Bible each day – won’t you take the challenge and begin now?  What more important way to start the new year than to make a daily appointment with God. To study His Word, and spend time with your Creator? I hope that you will take that step. In the beginning it won’t be easy. Satan always tries to ruin anything good you set out to do that has to do with growing in the Lord. He will put up road blocks and obstacles in your way in an effort to keep you from your time alone with God. But I promise if you will just persevere and push your way through it all – it will soon be a habit that you can’t break. And on days that you just can’t do it – you will find yourself missing it, and will see to it that you get right back to it.  Won’t you take the challenge and get started today?

If you have decided to take me up on this challenge, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at media4him@yahoo.com, or send snail mail to: The Messenger, PO Box 3367, El Paso, TX 79923.  Just share with me your first name, your age, your reason for taking the challenge, and what you hope to get out of it. I’d love it if you would then keep me posted every few months to let me know how it is going etc. With your permission I would then include it in my column – with only your first name of course, since that is all I ask you to give me.

Take care, and until next time HAPPY READING!

Posted on December 20, 2009

Hello! I’m sorry to any of you who have been checking for updated info on the blogsite. I am behind and am just now getting new info added on Sunday. Normally I try to get it done on Monday or Tuesday but it’s been quite the hectic week. But – the new info is all up now so I hope that you will enjoy it.

I’m wondering how many of ya’ll have all your Christmas shopping done – and how many are just beginning? That’s one thing I do miss about small town living – it doesn’t get quite so hectic and congested at this time of year. I don’t get to be out Christmas shopping but am out on the roads a lot trying to get my work done – and with all the shoppers out it sure slows me down. It makes for a very long day each day until Christmas is past. Then it will keep up until after New Year’s Day with all the after Christmas sales and New Year’s sales. Then – finally life on the roads will get back to normal once again. Then I will get stuck in a traffic jam only once per day rather than 3, 4 or 5 times per day as it is now! I can’t wait!

I trust that each of you are keeping in mind the true Reason for the Season – Jesus. Like me, I’m sure that each of you are truly thankful during this Christmas time and all throughout the year – that the Lord sent His only Son – Jesus, to be born in a manger and to then die on a cross for each of us.  At this time – remember the long trek that Joseph and Mary made to Bethlehem for the census. Ladies imagine going into labor on the back of a donkey, then having to give birth in a stable because there was no room at a local motel. Despite the inconvenience – Jesus was born on that glorious first Christmas Day.  The Savior of the world – fully human, as a little babe – here to save the world. I’m so thankful that He came, and that He loved us so much that He chose to die on the cross to save us from our sins. All we must do is believe in Him, accept Him as our Savior, and live our lives for Him. Aren’t you glad too?

Merry Christmas to you all!

 

Posted December 3, 2009

Here I am at my favorite eating spot in Las Cruces. I’m delivering papers and as usual stopped in for lunch at Si Senor. I love it here – I always get the chicken tacos – haven’t ventured out much trying new things since I love these so much. What I like best about this restaurant is that they bring you yummy chips and four different types of salsa while you wait for your food! Any one who knows me well knows that I am a fool for chips and salsa – but this is such a marvelous treat. Then once my meal is here I use any of the leftover salsas in my chicken tacos. Yum Yum. Any one reading that lives in the El Paso – Las Cruces area if you haven’t tried Si Senor – you definately need to make it a point to do so. I’m hooked, I have to stop every time I’m in Cruces.

I hope ya’ll had a great Thanksgiving. Ours was nice – but we truly miss the whole family ordeal from back home in Illinois. Naturally, we held our festivities – if you can call it that – at my house. There is only my son, Shawne; my daughter, Jenna; and my granddaughter living here in El Paso – so it was quite a small gathering. But it was wonderful to share the time together. As per usual I started my cooking on Wednesday night, cooked and prepared until 4:00 am. Got back up at 7:30 am and was back at it again. Then cooked until we ate at about 6:00 pm. The food is always so scrumptious – but seems pretty pointless most times. I cook for nearly 20 hours or so – and it takes about 20 minutes to eat – then spend hours cleaning up afterwards!  But it’s all worth it. Kelsey really didn’t want any of the “fruits of my labor” she kept saying “I want to go to Burger King!”  She did finally eat two or three deviled eggs.

We’ve also now made it through Jenna’s baby shower. It went over well. Jenna was disappointed that there ended up only being eight of us there. Three local’s that were invited were unable to attend. Most of Jenna’s friends reside in Killeen – and that was much too far for them to drive for the shower. Although it would have been such a surprise and much more fun for Jenna had they been able to. But, she got quite a few of the things listed on her baby registry at Walmart – so it’s a start on all that will be needed by the time baby Jacob is here. I held the shower at The Lancer’s Club on the Eastside. As a surprise to the attendee’s we also had A Vision of Love come and set up in a private room. If you aren’t familiar with them – it is a mobile sonogram/ultrasound company. They will come to your home or wherever with their portable sonogram equipment. It was awesome. All the attendee’s thought it was awesome. It was so cool to see Jacob’s face and hands and feet and they appear on the screen very much like what he will look like once he enters this world. They use 3D and 4D technology. Then Jenna was given a CD with all the pictures on it and a DVD of the session with music provided in the background.

So – now we’re facing my son’s birthday – on December 5th, and then ……… urg – Christmas. Of course it seems to be approaching much faster than we can prepare. It’s hard because I won’t be able to provide much for my family as I have in the past. I am focusing mostly on hoping to  be able to get Kelsey some things – and then of course hopefully something for my kids. We keep reminding ourselves that Christmas isn’t about the presents. Jesus is the Reason for the Season. But I did always love it so when I could shop for my kids, and Kelsey and others and get them the things they’ve really wanted. The fun was in watching them all open their gifts and be delighted. So – it will be a different kind of Christmas – but at least the four of us will be together.

I’m sure many of you are finding yourselves in the same boat this year. We all just need to keep positive and trust that it won’t always be this way. We concentrate on our love for each other, and our thankfulness that we have each other, and that those of us that are together – at least we are together. There are many families that are separated from each other at this time – so there is always someone worse off than we are. It will be hard for Jenna and Kelsey as they will be separated from Andrew since he is in Korea. Please be praying for all our military families daily, and most especially at Christmas.

Take care & God Bless until we meet again!

 

posted November 17, 2009

It’s been ages since I’ve been able to make time to write a new post here. Things have been incredibly busy and hectic as perhaps you can imagine.  I don’t seem to have time for much of anything anymore. The wonders and joys of technology are what makes it possible for me to be updating this right now. I am currently in Las Cruces delivering the November 19th issue that just printed. I was finally at a point where I could stop for lunch (although it is nearly 5:00 guess it’s actually supper) so brought my laptop in to do some work. Thanks to my trusty Cricket USB wireless internet I am able to work on the site while I’m here. Otherwise who knows when this would have been updated.

I’m enjoying very much having my daughter and my precious Kelsey back in El Paso. I see them as often as I can – but not as often as I would like. Kelsey is not back to staying all night with me each Saturday night as she was before they moved away. Jenna is still not comfortable having Andrew away so doesn’t want Kelsey gone at night also. Understandable – but I do look forward to the day when Kelsey will get to stay all night again. We always enjoyed our time together and it was always over too soon for both of us I think.

Kelsey is enjoying school (pre-K) a lot. She got her first progress report yesterday. She had many “Satisfactory’s” and like most kids there were also “Needs Improvement”.  This is especially understandable because she had not been in any school type setting prior (except going to church) AND mainly because the school she is in is a year round school so by the time they moved here and she got started they were in their last 5 days of the first quarter. So…. she began the year almost a whole quarter behind the others. I think she is adapting very well, considering it’s all new to her – and once again her daddy is gone (in Korea). I think it’s an awfull lot for a little one to cope with.

Jenna’s pregnancy is progressing well. She was especially glad when October was over since that is the month in which she lost both the babies by miscarriage. Her last appointment the doctor told her she was progressing right on schedule. Her next appointment is this Saturday so we can’t wait to hear what they have to say now.

On top of keeping up with the newspaper – or should I say TRYING to keep up with the newspaper – I am busily trying to plan Jenna’s baby shower. This isn’t as easy as most people let on.  Hopefully it will all turn out as planned. There is a surprise planned for the attendees – something out of the ordinary – so I hope they all enjoy it. I know Jenna, Kelsey and I are looking forward to it. It’s sad though because most of her friends are in Killeen so naturally won’t be able to make it. But – we plan to make the most of it with the folks we can gather from El Paso. I really wish my sister and mom could make it in (from Illinois) – but that’s a bit of a trip for a baby shower. They’ll be with us in thought I know.

Sooooo – OK folks – so far NO ONE has submitted any recipes for the Holiday Cook-off contest. What’s going on??? Please don’t let me down here.  I’m looking for favorite holiday dishes that you make for your family at Christmas.  Any that come in – if any do – will be posted on this site. Deadline for the submissions is December 9th. Then I’ll have people help me determine which should be the winner. The winning recipe will be published in the December 17th issue with the hopes that readers will decide to try it out on their families. In the meantime – all of the other recipes will remain on this site so that people can continue to try the recipes whenever they wish.  I will also come up with a prize for the winner.  So … start searching through your recipe cards and send things in to me. You’ve got time right now don’t you? LOL.

Remember – if you have article ideas you would like to see in The Messenger – email them to me. Also if you would like to write something -email me your ideas for possible consideration. I am in DIRE need of someone who would be willing to write for the paper. There is no money to pay – so this would be someone who has a heart for the Lord and would like to serve Him in this way.  Many of you may very well be getting sick of seeing my byline by most of the articles in the past four or five issues. Believe me – this is NOT intentional.  I would really rather not be doing the writing or not as much at least.  There are just so many other things I need to and should be doing.

I hope you all continue to enjoy reading The Messenger. I hope that each issue offers at least one thing that speaks to you or touches your heart. I hope that once you are done reading that instead of throwing it in the trash or the recycling that you will consider who you could pass it along to.

Last but not least – before I go – I’ll beg for your help. The Messenger is struggling financially like many other small businesses. Many who I do business with are unable to pay there debt to me, therefore it makes it where I can not always pay all whom I do business with on time. This is hard for me personally – and as a business. I feel it looks bad for the company when I have to pay late – and I don’t want people to look at a Christian business negatively. Here’s where your help comes in. Please first and foremost PRAY as often as you think of it that the Lord will lead many new advertisers my way. Pray for all the advertisers – that the Lord will bless them and their businesses so that they will prosper – therefore make them able to pay me.  Pray that the Lord will send people to The Messenger who can write and are interested in serving the Lord this way. Also pray for people who could sell advertising.

Now – outside of praying – if you own a business – would you consider running some kind of advertising to help support the paper? If you don’t own a business, consider sponsoring the Scripture ad on special family occasions throughout the year, or in honor of or memory of a loved one. Or – would you consider subscribing to the paper? I know most are able to pick it up at hudreds of locations free of charge. But as a subscriber you will not only receive the paper delivered directly to your door (via mail) you will also receive other extras throughout the year. Currently one such extra is the quarterly devotional “The Word For You Today”.  Also consider buying a gift subscription for loved one’s who do not live in this area since they can’t see it and pick it up.

Sorry for my begging – but I must do whatever the Lord calls me to help insure this paper continues. Please if you want to insure that the El Paso to Las Cruces area continues to have a Christian newspaper – consider how you can help.

May God Bless each of you.

Posted on October 3, 2009

These past few weeks have been a whirlwind of activity.  My daughter Jenna, son-in-law Andrew, and granddaughter Kelsey finally got back to El Paso!  There was mass confusion getting them settled into an apartment – but alas after a week or so that was done. Then on Sept. 22nd we were at the airport once again sending Andrew off for yet another year away from his family. This time it wasn’t back to the war – but to Korea. Although it isn’t to war it is still difficult on Jenna and Kelsey. Please – all you praying folks out there – keep them in your prayers during this next year.

Two days prior to Andrew leaving we celebrated Kelsey’s 5th birthday! They had the party at Chuck E. Cheese – and man was that another confusing time. Kelsey really enjoyed it – and for the most part it was OK. But they do rush you right off your tables. We were just serving up the cake and ice cream when they made us move out of the way for another party. We had to rush to move all the presents, cake etc to other booths.  Since we weren’t all at the same table any longer it made it harder for people to watch when Kelsey opened her presents.

This past week, Monday,  we rushed around to take care of all things needed to get Kelsey enrolled in school. We went on post to get her shots required – she needed three. Naturally, after this she was not a happy camper. The military in Killeen had kept Kelsey’s birth certificate so we had to go to the courthouse for a new one.  Once there discovered that the price had gone from $12 to $23. When Jenna asked why – the lady just said, “The price went up!”

Kelsey began her first day of school this week on Tuesday. We soon discovered that the school she is attended is a year round school, and this Friday was the last day for two weeks!  Last night, (Friday) we attended the school’s Fall Festival. While there Kelsey fished for a fake fish – and won a real goldfish. Played a game of musical chairs, went in an obstacle course jumping balloon twice, shot hoops, with all the prizes being candy of course.

Yes – somewhere in all this activity I have found time to produce the next issue of The Messenger. If you are checking this site prior to Monday or Tuesday the 5th & 6th you’ll notice that I have updated the pages early. My CPA had filed an extension for my taxes which gave me until Oct. 15th.  All I can say is “time flies”. Since March my bookkeeper and I have not been able to fit in time together to work on them. So – she came and taught me one other step I could do to help her – and later today I have to relinquish my laptop to her so that she can catch up all the rest in time for the CPA! Therefore – I am having to do lots of things early since I won’t be able to do them without my laptop.  This will be quite an ordeal for me. You don’t realize how attached, how important your computer is to you and your functionality until it is taken from you.  The first three days or so of the week next week I will be delivering papers so hopefully I won’t notice the missing appendage all that much. I will still be able to check email on my netbook – but won’t have access to any of my files. But I’m certain God will help me through it!

Thoughts For Today

      

When you became a believer, you also became God’s messenger. God wants to speak to the world through you. Paul said, “We speak the truth before God, as messengers of God.”    2 Corinthians 2:17b NCV

Jenna, Andrew and Kelsey finally made it in to El Paso on Saturday around 12:15 pm. Originally they were scheduled to be here on Friday evening but things took so long finalizing in Killeen that by the time they hit the road they decided to stop and stay at a motel instead of driving all the way in one shot. Jenna pulled a prank I was afraid of – and told me they would be in around 2:00 pm or later.  So I was busy frantically cleaning and preparing for their stay with me – when they showed up at 12:15 while I was taking a much needed break in my office chair trying to cool off.  They had parked on the street instead of the driveway so that I wouldn’t hear them.  My son must have been in on it because he announced, “I’m going to go check the mail for a minute” which I felt was a strange  comment since the mailbox is right outside the front door only 15 feet or so from where I was sitting.  I was exhausted, pondering over what all was left to do and only having an hour or so left to do it in – when I looked up and there was my Kelsey girl walking towards me!!  Naturally I started crying – I was so thrilled to see her. My how she’s grown. I have missed her so much – I knew I had, but hadn’t realized how incredibly much until I had her in my arms hugging her. She finally said, “Nana stop squeezing me so hard!”  So as you can imagine I am floating on cloud 9 to have my girls back here where I can see them and spend time with them any time we want, and feel I can know they are safe – or at least are close by if they need me I can get to them quickly.

For now, they are all staying with me. They didn’t learn until the moving truck was totally done loading all their belongings that it would not be heading to El Paso right away.  They asked of their approximate arrival time and was told that the orders didn’t call for the truck to be in El Paso until the 21st!  So for all you praying folks out there – please pray that everything can get settled sooner because Andrew will need to fly out on the 22nd in order to be in Killeen to fly to Korea with his unit on the 23rd.  Of course they were hoping to move all in to the new apartment, have time to get things unpacked and settled and spend quality time together as a family in the new place before Andrew had to leave.  They already had an apartment picked out, deposit paid and I picked up the keys on Friday thinking that the moving truck would be coming in before Jenna and Andrew since they were staying behind to clean once everything was out of the house.  Unfortunately when we all went in to the apartment on Saturday the hot water heater had been leaking water for who knows how long and water was soaked through much of the living room carpet, the toilet in the master bedroom was broken, and quite a few other things were wrong with the place.  So – now they aren’t pleased with that place since they were put off on repairs and told that it wouldn’t be ready until Wednesday. As you can imagine – because they were originally expected to take it in that condition now they don’t feel comfortable with that particular company. So – they are out running around today trying to find another that is in the area they like, at the cost they can afford etc.  So until all is settled I will have them under my roof – right where I want my Kelsey girl!!

It has been such a blast aleady having Kelsey with me.  Except I will have a hard time working since I just want to spend my time with her – and my office is in the house. Today she wanted to stay with me while Jenna and Andrew went to look for apartments – it was so hard for me to have to tell her that I needed her to go with them so I could get some work done.  That will be the hardest part while they are staying here. I want to spend every minute possible with her – but I do have to get work done. So – again – for all you praying folks – keep me in your prayers also so that I can concentrate on work when I need to to get these issues out! I just love her so much that I don’t want to let her out of my site. As they were leaving she kissed me goodbye and as she walked off she said, “Don’t worry Nana I promise to come back to you.”  You can’t imagine how that melted my heart.

That has stuck with me for these hours since they’ve left and I am reminded that Jesus spoke similar words. He let His people know that He would be coming back for us one day. He promised that he would return.  As good as it made me feel when Kelsey promised to return to me – how much more important and exciting that Jesus – the Lord of the Universe – has promised to return for us one day.  How deep my love is for my children and grandchildren; but how deeper so the love of the Lord for His children.  No matter what the situations or trials in our life are, how difficult and impossible it may seem – we just need to remember that our Lord loves us more than anyone else possibly could, and that if we have accepted Him as our personal Savior – we will one day reside in Heaven with Him. We are never alone, never unloved when we have Jesus as our Savior.

Precious Heavenly Father,

Thank You so much for bringing Jenna, Andrew and Kelsey back to EL Paso safe and sound.  I thank You so much for my opportunity to be a grandma. Father I pray that You guard over the little one growing in Jenna’s tummy – may he/she be born just as happy and healthy as Kelsey.  Lord please work all things out for them for a new place to live. One that they will feel safe in, be able to afford and can be happy in until Andrew’s return from Korea. Father once the new place is found, please work it out also for the truck to be able to deliver their belongings soon – not making them wait until the 21st. Lord please help them to be able to get moved in and settled and be able to spend time in the new place as a family before Andrew has to leave. Jenna needs and wants that so much so that she can feel that he is and has been a part of their lives in the new home. Protect Andrew during the long fight and the year long deployment in Korea. Bless their family Lord I pray.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

Posted September 5, 2009

Wow I can’t believe it has been a month since I have updated my post here. I knew I had been busy – but didn’t realize just how much until I decided to write something here and saw the date.  I’m sorry to all those who had checked in with the site hoping to find the updated info on the different editorial from the paper – believe it or not I just got the updates completed today for the Aug. 27th issue and a new issue prints next week already, arg! 

Normally the paper prints every other Monday – but I was disappointed to find out yesterday that because Labor Day is Monday the paper won’t print until Tuesday. This will make for a very difficult week for me – delivery wise since I will lose a day, but guess it will all work out in the end. I will just have to rely on the Lord even more than usual! With His help I’ll get through it.

I am SO excited because in about a week Jenna, Andrew and Kelsey will be here! I am so thrilled I can hardly stand it. Unfortunately, Andrew will only get to stay for about 10 days and then he will be deploying to Korea for a year.  Please keep them all in your prayers. It’s difficult for all military families to be apart, especially young married couples with small children. My precious Kelsey just gets used to having her daddy around and then he has to leave again. So please lift them all up in prayer.

In case you weren’t able to read the Aug. 27th issue of the paper – be sure to read my column – From His Messenger (click on the tab by that name) dated Aug. 27th.  I’m looking for people who are willing and able to help make a difference in another needy family’s life. With the help of many we were able to help a single father with two young boys last year just after Christmas.  It was so wonderful the day I went to their home to take all the things we were able to get donated and/or purchase with monies donated by readers. Now – there is a single mother with two daughters who needs our help. The family has just recently moved to El Paso and the mother has been unable to find work.  She is struggling trying to pay bills to keep their apartment. Her oldest daughter is 18 and pregnant and in need of some baby items. The youngest daughter is enrolled in a school that requires school uniforms.  So far they have only been able to purchase one outfit – so they are asking for more sets of the uniform.

I so much wish to help this family. Please if any of you reading could either purchase any of the items listed, or would prefer to donate money to go to the purchase of the items – contact me asap either at my email media4him@yahoo.com or my cell (915) 329-0824. Any of you out of towners who feel led to help certainly can do so by mailing a check to Media 4 Him, LLC, PO Box 3367, El Paso, TX 79923.  The paper is not a 501c3 so any donations would not be tax deductible.  Be sure to click on the tab labeled “From His Messenger” and you will be able to read about the family and their needs. Please if nothing else keep this family in your prayers. Pray that God will lead the mother to the perfect job for her very soon; pray that the 18 year old will have a safe delivery and will have a happy, healthy baby; pray that they youngest girl will have a great school year, and will make many new friends at school.  I want to help this family but do not have all the funds myself. I know that everyone is struggling financially at this time – but if many people gave a little – it would equal a lot to help this family. It would at least give them more than they have right now.  They are not asking for money – I’ve listed the items in my column that they are asking – so please know that any money that is donated will go to the purchase of the items the are requesting.

Father, I pray that You will use this family’s plight to touch hearts of people reading about them. Lord, lead people to help this family. Lord I want to be able to provide this little girl with four more uniforms for school so that at least she will have one for each day, and not have to wear the same set over and over each day. I know that is not too much to ask Father. And Lord I would like to help this young mother to get the much needed items for her baby. I can’t do this on my own Father but I know that You can send people who read about this family. You can put the desire in their hearts – same as mine to show Christian love to this family and help provide their needs. You are the Great Provider and You help provide needs of people through other people. Please Lord give the readers willing hearts. Father this mother asked for nothing for herself – just for the needs of her children. I pray Lord that You will bless her – help her to find just the most perfect job for her so that she can provide for her family. Bless this family Lord. I give You all the glory for what You will do in their lives.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

  Posted August 6, 2009

Praise the Lord – He is truly a Lord of miracles! My daughter, Jenna, who is pregnant had a sonogram two weeks ago which showed a mass in her uterus larger than the baby was at that time. She was then sent for a Level 2 sonogram the following day.  I emailed the Prayer Request to my church’s email prayer chain, my prayer group, my family etc. While at the Level 2 sonogram Jenna was not able to see any signs of the mass they had seen on the screen the day before. We praised God for the miracle. But of course – we still needed to see what was said at a follow up appointment.  As grateful as we were for no visible signs of a mass, I’m sure there was still some fear as to what the doctor would have to say about the results.

Jenna had her follow up appointment with her doctor yesterday, Aug. 5th to get the results from the Level 2 sonogram. He seemed thrilled to tell her there was no longer any signs of a mass, and said everything now looks perfect! While doing the sonogram the baby moved, jumped and even appeared to be waving several times. Jenna emailed me the video – it was so awesome to see.  I hate that she is so far from me so that I can’t be at the appointments with her – but at least I’m not totally left out – I can view the videos over and over.

I thank You Almighty God for Your mercy and grace. I exalt You with all praise for this mighty miracle You have given us. I thank You for the protection of my daughter and my unborn grandchild.  In 1 Peter 5:7 we’re told “Give all your worries to him, because he cares about you.” We give the remainder of this pregnancy to You Lord. We’re trusting in You to further this pregnancy the way it is intended. And we’re looking forward to the day that we hold yet another precious life given from You in our arms. I love You Lord and I am so thankful and grateful for Your love and faithfulness. Amen 

I hope that you are enjoying the site and will check back often. I taught myself something new today – I finally figured out how to add images and photos. Alas – The Messenger logo is finally on the site. I still can’t get it at the top where it should be – but at least it is on the page, Amen! You’ll also find a new page listed at the left “Pictures”. So far I’ve only uploaded a few – just wanted to make sure I got the hang of it, and wouldn’t forget. You know when you get older you have to do things with much repitition to force it in to your memory.

Next week the new issue will publish so I will upload new content for the Ask Christian Leaders questions, Devotional, From His Messenger, Upcoming Events and anything else there is time for. I hope to make this site useful and enjoyable to those who read The Messenger – and for those who don’t but happen to stumble across this site. Keep me posted on what you’d like to see here, or feel would be beneficial to YOU the readers. It is the intent to have this be yet another tool that can link Christians and non-Christians to what is going on in our community and beyond that would be of interest to them. If you know of any events in your church or elsewhere please send them in. Naturally I will not post anything that would be “unbecoming” to the Christian family.

I leave you with this Scripture that has touched my heart today:

We are persecuted, but God does not leave us. We are hurt sometimes, but we are not destroyed.  2 Corinthians 4:9

Thoughts for Today

Well I spent from about 1:15 am to about 6:15 am or so working on what is done so far. It was very interesting once I got into it and I hated to quit until I had each of the tabs on with their descriptions/verbage etc. Now that I got this hammered out I realize that the website might not be too difficult. So I may try my hand at that soon. We’ll see how this goes. I know it’s nothing fancy or pretty to look at – but it gets the info out there for any who care to look up the site.

Be sure to click on each of the “tabs” at the top to check out information, as well as the blue underline links at the left of the page. Some of this information will change as each new issue of the paper comes out. Or as I have time to change and create new pages and info.

I’m hoping this will prompt more of the readers to interact more. Feel free to post questions for Ask Christian Leaders, Pet Vet, Muscular Christianity or post Letters to His Messenger here as well. There is also a page for you to list Prayer Requests. Also feel free to let me know what you like about the paper, dislike, suggestions of what you would like to see in the future in the paper and on this site or on the future web site.

Since I didn’t get to bed until after 7:00 am and not to sleep until around 9:00 am I pretty much had a lazy day today. I read the book “Urgency to Rise” a call to the American ‘church’.  Wow – every Christian should read this book. The author, Jeremy Strang,  was in town yesterday for a book signing at Latin Latte Pastry Cafe on the Northeast. I went to take pictures and get some info for next issue. I thought I would stay a short bit and then be on my way. But I was having such an interesting conversation with him I ended up staying for three hours! If you know me you’ll know that isn’t hard for me. I am a talker – and so is Jeremy so we had a great time talking about his book AND he is a representative with Voice of the Martyrs. What an interesting guy he is. So on fire for the Lord. I’m hoping to put together a story for the August 13th issue – so I hope I can do it justice. Be sure to check at bookstores for this book or on Amazon.com or on Jeremy’s website www.time2stand.net  you’ll be glad you did. You may even want to get books for your family & friends or at the very least pass yours around once you have read it!

Thoughts For Today …

OK. Every time I turn around someone is telling me I need to get a website for the paper or to create a blog. Since a website is still out of reach financially – I finally decided to try my hand at a blog. So… here I am! This will be a slow process but I will try my best to learn how to use this and hopefully make this a great communication tool to add to the features of The Messenger.