Saturday morning update: OH MY WORD, YOU GUYS! THIS TURNED OUT TO BE ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS EVER ON THIS BLOG! SO MUCH FUN! You guys are incredibly interesting. I am knocked out right now with a sense of awe that God would allow me to interact with you. I have tons of respect for you guys. Keep doing the thing and keep resisting the cookie cutter despite the (Christian??) social pressure. You are much more interesting this way. Just hold close to Jesus and don’t let being different become it’s own pretense or attention-getter. Keep that gorgeous authenticity that makes this community my favorite cyber spot on earth. Good grief, I am so thankful for y’all.
Hey, everybody! It’s been a long time since we’ve done a survey to see who God has brought together to form this sisterhood. It’s a blast not only to behold our common bonds in Christ but to revel in our diversity as a community of very different people committed to one glorious Savior. We’d be bored stiff if we only opened our hearts and lives to those who are just like us. If we have to line up exactly on about 100 points of doctrine, we are liable to get pretty lonely. We don’t even necessarily have to work out a difference to our mutual satisfaction to treat one another with mutual esteem and to honestly love one another. Always preferring someone remarkably similar across the table from us still smells a lot like Narcissus. We may even be fooling ourselves but, at the end of the day, it’s just another form of mirror gazing. Gross.
When I get to see a group of you out there after a Living Proof Live, I always wish I could freeze the moment and stare at each of you one by one. It is the most incredibly refreshing sight. You cannot fathom how different we look in person, all banded together in a holy huddle. It makes me so dang happy. It is clear in that context that we were drawn together by something so far removed from packaging. You and I know that is Jesus. Oh, how I pray that God smiles when He drops in on this community, holds time tightly in His hand, and stares at each of us one by one.
“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:11-12
OK! What do you say we do a survey? Complete each of the following as succinctly as possible. Lindsee and I will LOVE bringing these in. Let’s do this today for the pure Jesus-joy of celebrating community!
1. Your name and where you live.
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
5. What is your #1 hobby?
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am ___________________________________________________________________.
1. Belinda. Orlando, FL
2. 58
3. 10, in my church during the winter in So. Texas.my sister and I were baptized the next week-end in a baptistry with no heated water. Couldn’t resist the power of God’s Spirit compelling me to follow Him.
4. 1st career: husband and I were missionaries overseas for over 20 years. 2nd career: teacher in a private Christian school. Love them both.
5. Reading
6. Sanlando Bapt. Church
7. No pets
8. Unwise decision of a dear, close family member/watching son grow into a man who counsels others in the way of the Lord and leads them.
9. Rising early for Bible study, breakfast with my husband as we talk about the Word together, cleaning house, groceries, cooking for Sunday and Monday, finding a movie to watch with my husband at end of the day.
10. Only people who really know me realize the many talents and abilities God has given me.
1. Your name and where you live. – Chris from Wayland, Iowa
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) 36 but I still think I’m 25
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting? I don’t have an inspirational story…I grew up with Jesus in my life and I don’t remember him not being a part of it, but I recommitted my life to him 8 yrs ago.
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.) I am a full time domestic engineer. I am in charge of corralling two toddlers all day and making sure my 15 yr old teenager gets to where he needs to be. (among the many other household duties that never seem to be done) Busy, busy!
5. What is your #1 hobby? Not sure…I’m too tired to have a hobby. Guess I’d like it to be sleep!
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? yes, Bethel Mennonite Church – However, I must say, I’m a follower of Christ 1st and a Mennonite 2nd.
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. I have my snuggly little Max. He’s a Yorkie/Shi Tzu mix. I love him very much. And Dusty, our yellow lab who is our farm/watch dog.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation. My 35 yr old cousin suddenly passed away/my husband held my hand today (he’s not a touchy person so that’s big!)
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday. Probably a quiet setting where I can relax peacefully.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am not very good at keeping my house picked up like I should.
1) Angie, Iowa
2) 33
3) 1996 at an FCA meeting in high school on my actual birthday, Ray Lewis (Baltimore Ravens) was the speaker- it was right before he went pro
4) Stay-at-home-mom, engraver
5) Hanging out with family & friends
6) Open Bible Church
7) A dog named Abby
8) Seeing my kids grow up so fast / Getting a small, part time job offer out of the blue
9) Staying home all day with my kids & not have to accomplish anything productive, then having my favorite adult friends over in the evening to play cards with me & my hubby
10) I love deeply
1. Nina, Bentonville, AR
2. 34
3. I KNOW He is my Savior, but details are foggy. I grew up in the Methodist church and felt moved through Confirmation, but always struggled putting an exact moment on the day/minute/hour. I never could remember life without Jesus ;/
4. Speech path VERY part-time, mostly SAHM
5. If kids aren’t a hobby, LOL… 1 – girlfriends and 2 – (sadly) social media
6. Fellowship Bible Church
7. Monte, dog of 14 years just passed(bright side, no poo in the yard or hair in the house)
8. Disappointment-Not feeling effective in discipleship (I know, I know… HE is working, God’s timing)/ Elation – seeing God in my life… little things that let me know he cares, and he is with me
9. A mix of outdoor fun (walk, park with family), junk-food (nachos, cotton candy) and indoor rest. #honesty,folks
10. Seeking Him like crazy and loving it in one breath, disappointed in my lack of discipline in the next.
1. Carma Dutra, Oakley, CA
2. 65 – 70 group
3. In Valley View Texas at a summer revival at the age of 12
4. Self Employed writer and retired from a J.O.B.
5. Since I have retired, Life is my #1 hobby
6. Yes, Golden Hills Community Church, Brentwood, CA
7. One chiuaua mix dog named P.J.
8. I cooked potatoes in a soup for 6 hours and they never got soft enough. I had to use mixer so my toothless husband could eat them. after all the potatoes were free/Jesus answered my question this morning during my devotion almost immediately. It was such a personal moment. I didn’t expect Him to answer so soon or at all because it was just an “I wonder why?” type question.
9. Wake up without an alarm. After breakfast and devotion, off to the gym for one hour. Make phone calls to friends and family. See grandchildren and later take a nap.
10. “only people who really know me realize that I am…..not a cell phone person. It never rings loud enough and I always forget it. Just give me email.
Kim – Edmonds, WA
2. 43
3. Gave my heart to Jesus at age 5…began to understand my salvation in light of my love relationship with Him at age 30…it’s been a wild and lovely journey!
4. I am a barista a few hours per week and a homeschooling mom who leads a high school English/History co-op. I probably should list the mom part first since that takes the most time and brings the most rewards but typing on my iPad is a PAIN!
5. Singing/leading worship
6. Westgate Chapel, Edmonds, WA
7. 1 precious dog named Logan and a beautiful but persnickety cat named Pippin
8. Discovering my dad is not my biological father/discovering the lasting affection of my heavenly Father
9. Puttering around the house finishing projects, playing a game with my family, ending with a dinner date with my amazing husband
10. My friends have a saying, “J.A.K. – just ask Kim” because they claim I know everything. Those who really know me know that I am full of self-doubt and indecision and desperately cling to Jesus!
Km Eshelman
Lewisburg, PA
56 years
3. I grew up Catholic and always felt Jesus was in my life, but never felt at peace. But as an adult 33 years I said the Sinners prayer out loud. It took several years of in depth Bible study and prayers to really feel I could be forgiven.God in His limitlessness was very personal with me and I am free.
4.I attended college for my Bachelor’s in Nursing working on an Obstetrics floor and then in an Allergy Office.
5.Making things with photographs I have taken.
6.Yes a Lutheran church.
7.We have a rescue mixed terrier13 years old that we named Hines Ward. Guess you now may know we are Steeler fans!
8. Medical issues since I was 26 years old,/Truthfully I am elated every day to be married to my husband Tim, for 34 years.
9.Swimming when we have warm weather, visiting, movies, watching football,walking,and ordering dinner out or going out to dinner.
10.How deeply important my Bible studies are. That learning God’s Word has and continues to change my life. I continue to change and am so thankful. I went to BSF for 11 years (it was a 5 year program) but I had and have so much to learn…..now for 12 years facilitating 2 Bible studies. Never in my life would,I have imagined doing this. But I,heard God ask loud and clear. Not my husband but other close,family members for,many years didn’t understand this extreme passion. But I can say God has opened their hearts in the last year! What a limitless God we serve.
1. Joni Woodward, Southeast Texas (2 hours east of Houston)
2. age:58; baby boomer
3. I officially accepted Jesus as my Savior when I was ten, but actually I had accepted Him in my heart around eight. I was too scared to walk down the aisle by myself at that age and had to wait for my older sister to accept Jesus so I would be able to walk down the aisle with her. I was painfully shy.
4. I’m a retired elementary teacher.
5. My #1 hobby is reading.
6. This past Easter my husband decided he would attend church with me if we went to the church he grew up in. I gladly left my church of over 50 years so I could attend with him at Central Baptist Church.
7. We have two chihuahuas.
8. Biggest disappointment–the return of anxiety attacks as my parents’ health deteriorated (they died within six months of each other; Mother on Sept 10, 2011; Daddy on March 21, 2012)/Biggest elation–my son and daughter-in-love are going to have a baby girl in about three weeks, and I’ll be a grandmother for the very first time!
9. My perfect Saturday is a day free of humidity, temps in the mid-70s with a gentle breeze blowing while I sit on my patio swing listening to all the birds the Lord brings to my backyard. The sky would be a tourquoise blue with white fleecy clouds and I would sense the presence of God in the trees, the birdsong, the breeze, the sunshine, and in the clouds floating across the sky. I’d sit there for hours with my Scriptures for overcoming anxiety, a chihuahua in my lap, and my favorite book, The Robe, by Lloyd Douglas.
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am apt to lose all track of time in a library or bookstore.
Tracy, Oregon
34
Kindergarten at a Christian school
High school English teacher
Reading/Cooking with my family
Calvary Chapel
No pets, but we suspect their are mice babies in the garage!
Pained by someone close / seeing my children (5 yrs and 5 months) adore each other
Fancy breakfast with family (usually trying a new recipe), getting outside, relaxing together, laughter, naps, family movie night with popcorn
I love to be around people, but I recharge my batteries by getting lots of quiet, solitary time.
1. Mary Watkins
West Memphis, AR
2. mid 50s
3. June 6, 1971
A friend and I were riding a ferry across the Mississippi River. The sun was setting. My friend was looking for someone to go with her to Wheaton, Illinois. See wanted to attend a seminar. Bill Gothard would be speaking about God all week. My friend said, “No one wants to go with me. Nobody seems to have time for God”. My heart was pricked by those words. Looking across the water into the sunset, I silently said a prayer, “God I’ve got time for You if you can use me. Will you come into my heart?” HE DID!
4. I am the secretary at First Baptist Church in Marion, AR
5. Reading
6. Yes, quite invested at First Marion
7. Yes, we have two dogs. The older one, Max, we rescued him from the animal shelter. He is part dachshund and part beagle. The younger dog is 2 years old. His name is Bruno. He is a red miniature dachshund.
8. Our annual Fall camping trip with the Johnson family had to be postponed because of rain./Was able to spend the entire day with my mother who lives a couple hours away.
9. Trout fishing on the Little Red River at Heber Springs, AR. with family and friends. It is a beautiful and peaceful place.
10. They realize I am funny. I can make people laugh.
1.Susie, Columbus, Ohio
2. 59
3. Don’t remember exactly. It is a process.
4. Write devotionals and occasional nanny
5. Shopping and baking
6.Bethel Presbyterian Church
7. No pets
8. That My Mom’s dementia is getting worse/ I got to see my grandchildren from Texas
9.spending time with friends. Having time to be in my prayer garden
10. ThatbI am really an introvert and don’t do well in big groups.
9.
1. Karen, Lincoln, NE
2. 64 (until Dec. 22!)
3. I was raised going to church every Sunday but when I went off to college I began doing things MY way. I started smoking and drinking and having what I thought was the time of my life. I married, had two precious children, divorced, and remarried. When I was 56, I started realizing that I needed something more than myself and someone to help me clean up my lifestyle. I started looking for a church and found one where I was fed God’s Word and was accepted and loved. One Sunday, when the pastor gave the altar call, SOMEONE literally pulled me out of my seat and led me to the altar. I’ve never looked back. I love my Savior with all my heart. He has changed my life.
4. I taught 2nd Grade for 18 years then worked in the office of my 2nd husband’s farm implement dealership. I’m now retired.
5. Hobbies? Grandchildren, Bible study, reading
6. I moved to a different city 3 years ago after my 2nd divorce to be closer to my children and grandchildren. I have been attending the same denomination as the one where I was saved (Church of the Nazarene) but after much prayer I am unfortunately going to be moving on to a different church setting.
7. I grew up with cocker spaniels and had golden retrievers and a cockapoo during my 1st marriage. I am so wanting a puppy or a rescued dog. Am waiting for the right dog and the right time.
8. Biggest recent disappointment: Making good friendships in my new church in Lincoln and now feeling that I need to leave that church.
9. Sleeping in, leisurely breakfast cooked and cleaned up by someone else, spending the day with family or friends, doing some reading then watching tv in bed.
10. Only people who really know me realize than I am an introvert and very shy.
1. Jane, St. Louis MO
2, 48
3. High School Age 16
4. In the process of re-inventing myself while wearing several hats, mom, wife, student, new business owner.
5. Reading (not doing much of it now)
6. Faithchurch St. Louis
7. No pets
8. Coming into relationship with God and fully appreciating his presence as my family goes through adversity.
9. Late morning in bed with breakfast served.
10. Only people who really know me realize I am not as altogether as I look/seem on the outside.
Hi, Jane. Also from St. Louis area! I attend The Crossing.
My name is Tara, and we just moved to Sherwood, Arkansas. I’m 39 and accepted Christ when I was about 5 or 6 at a Backyard Bible Club. I am a military wife and stay home with our three children; I also home school them. I have trumpet performance degrees, and I love to play when I get the chance; I especially enjoy sitting in an orchestra or bringing a bride down the aisle. We are so excited about what God is doing in our new church body, Central Baptist (North Little Rock)!
We are a pet free family,much to our children’s dismay. Moving so frequently and deployments just don’t jive so well with a pet.
My biggest recent disappointment was having to pick a paint color way before I was ready and then paying a crew to do a big overhaul…and the color isn’t quite right. I will have to live with if for a year or so – we’ll either move again next summer or if we stay, we’ll do some renovations on this home. My greatest elation are the moments God reminds me He is right here- answered prayers. Another overseas move meant a long transition and routines were slow to return; I haven’t been as consistent with prayer and Bible study, and I feared I’d miss His voice, but He has been so tender with me and He just delights me!
My perfect Sunday is a hot breakfast before church, getting out the door on time, encouraging others and soaking in the Word, a great dinner at home,and a nap!
Only people who really know me realize that I still get nervous about making new friends and “being liked” with each move.
Oops- I read Sunday, not Saturday!
1. Erin, Arkansas
2. 32
3. Around the 4th grade (at church)
4. Stay-at-home mom to two boys (ages 3.5 and 1)
5. Working out
6. Yes, my church and our community group
7. Just one dog
8. Biggest elation: being a mother to my two precious boys
9. Get up early for exercise and quiet time. As a family, clean the entire house and then go hiking or some other fun activity and end the night with a movie.
10. Only people who really know me realize that I love my to-do lists.
Gayle, Albany, GA
58:)
25 at a Truth concert at church
Unemployed (prayers pls) lost job in Apr.
Scrap booking
yes- Sherwood Baptist Church- Albany GA
dog-Australian Shepherd; cat- gray
loosing my job was a jolt!
our oldest daughter got married in Aug. JOY!!!
sit in swing and bless the Lord- errands- grill out.
people who know me know I love quality time to talk about the Lord/scripture and keys to staying healthy.
1. Your name and where you live.
>Mariah Phx, Arizona
> 2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
>nineteen
> 3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest
> possible terms, what was the setting?
>fifth grade summer camp
> 4. What line of work are you in? Or, if youre in school, tell us where and
> what line of work youre steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us youre
> a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
>I work at Kohl’s right now and am in school attempting to receive my pharmacuedical degree so I can go into Pharma Research and Development
> 5. What is your #1 hobby?
>reading
> 6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which
> one?
>Highlands Church in Scottsdale, AZ
> 7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know weve got to know what kind.
>a cat named Mr. Puddin Head, and a beagle named Sneakers
> 8. Your biggest recent disappointment slash your biggest recent elation.
>my sister refuses to pay back the loan I gave her/I was at the Believing God study at Scottsdale Bible Church and we were going through Ephesians 1 and I realized God was proud of me for me and not just who I’m related to or my works, but for me…I had heard it for years but this past Tuesday, it just clicked…
> 9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
>Get up, go garage saling, resolve debt, go shopping with Mom, go to Petsmart and oggle the cats, come home and read a book or do my Beth Moore study (note: I am not trying to be pretensious, I just love being busy all day and I love doing my Bible studies)
> 10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am
> ___suffering from borderline personality disorder_____________________
1. Shannon, Tacoma, Washington
2. 41
3. When I was five years old in a private Christian school.
4. I am a middle school Reading Intervention Specialist. I teach 6-8th grade struggling readers.
5. Being outdoors and blogging
6. Yes! Grace Church in Federal Way, Washington
7. Two dogs, Ginger and Lola
8. Elation today in class when a young man I have worked with for over a year, finally was able to show waht he knows on a test! 🙂
9. Sleep in, quiet time, coffee with girlfriends, outdoor fun with family (hiking preferred), ending with dinner and a movie together.
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am still believing for a miracle…
8. *what* oops…
1. Your name and where you live. Staci Pealock, Demorest, Georgia
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin) 46 (in 23 days)
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal S iavior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
12 yrs old at the altar of Gwinnett Hall Baptist church
4. What line of work are you in? Or, if you’re in school, tell us where and what line of work you’re steering toward. (Do not hesitate to tell us you’re a stay-at-home-mom. No harder work exists nor longer hours.)
Full time Minister with LAMBS Ministries for Women
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Networking people
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one? Yes, The Torch Worship Center
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind. 3 cats; 2 dogs (Yorkie/pom and shih tzu)
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
Lack of discipline with eating/ God gave our ministry a building for free
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
oh, that was recently….pj’s in bed viewing LPM Simulcast!!
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am using Bio-identical hormones :).
1. Susan Lawrence – Nokomis, IL (central IL)
2. 44…and proud of every minute/year!
3. I was 21 and was searching when I met my husband who was coming out of a time of searching. I had religious baggage and was SUPER excited to learn and accept that Jesus is my PERSONAL Savior!!!
4. I’m a Women’s Ministry Consultant, writing and speaking around the country. I’m passionate about pouring into women with any chance I get! As I type this, I’m in a hotel room after a FABULOUS night with a group or women. Be praying as we continue to dig into God’s Joy-Filled life for us tomorrow!
5. Long walks!
6. Absolutely! My home church is Taylorville Christian in Taylorville IL. I lead a Bible study for women once a week there and am also in a Bible study at the local UMC with another group. I love interdenominational studies and friendships!!!
7. I have an absolutely adorable chocolate lab name Ghiradelli (Della for short). She’s just 6 months old and absolutely precious. I waited a full year for her after losing our 17-year-old black lab/husky.
8. Disappointment: Dealing with my parents’ health issues
Elation: Watching God work in my family’s lives!
9. The perfect Saturday is some cleaning time (what can I say? I like a clean house!, watching a movie with my daughter, a long walk with my pup and husband, and some Bible study time!).
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am healed!
1.Robin Fretwell, Belmont, NC
2. Age 40
3. Lead to Christ at age 9 on my front porch by a family friend, but did not grow up in an active believing family so there was no follow up. Praise The Lord for His grace which carried me to my adulthood and to my wonderful husband and his Godly family, at age 24 I was baptized while 5 months pregnant with my daughter.
4. I am a Travel Agent specializing in Disney destinations. I’m known as The Dixie Pixie 🙂
5. Blogging, traveling (luv both)
6. South Point Baptist Church, Belmont, NC
7. None. Our yellow lab of 7 years ran away while we were on vacation 2years ago and we can’t bring ourselves to get a new one.
8. Celebrating our 20th Anniversary with my wonderful husband! On a Bahamas cruise (our first ever)!
9. Waking up at our beach house and spending the day under an umbrella on a lounge chair with the sun the surf and a good book.
10. Only those who really know me know that I’m not a snob just quiet when I first meet people, but once I know ya…watch out.
1. Leesburg,Ga.
2. 44
3. When I was 8 yrs old remember like it was yesterday it was during Revival at my church. I can remember looking at my mama who was sitting behind me and I just had tears rolling down my cheeks. My Sunday School teacher had been talking to me about salvation for several weeks.
4. I am the secertary/accounts payable for my husbands towing company.
5. scrap booking
6. Friendship Baptist Church, Leesbur, Ga.
7. Have 2 pets Belle – Jack Russell, LittleBit- mix Chichua Terrier sweet doggies.
8. Our pastor passed away couple of months ago he was only 49 left behind precious wife and 2 boys / My middle son got married. Now I finally have a girl.
9. Being able to sleep in after a very busy stressful week getting up and drinking my coffee relaxing and spend it antique shopping with my best friend.I do not get to do this often.
10.That I worry to much.
1. Your name and where you live.
Crystal, Central Ohio
2. Your age or general age grouping (grin)
51
3. When did you accept Jesus as your personal Savior and, in briefest possible terms, what was the setting?
9,in a Sunday morning church service singing Just As I AM
4. What line of work are you in?
Teacher (drivers education)
5. What is your #1 hobby?
Bass fishing
6. Are you currently invested in a local body of believers? If so, which one?
First Baptist Church of Heath, Ohio
7. Do you have pets? If so, you surely know we’ve got to know what kind.
8. Your biggest recent disappointment – slash – your biggest recent elation.
Being a group leader at our Women’s Ministry
9. Describe your idea of the perfect Saturday.
Bass fishing, drive in the country, reading, barbecue for dinner
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am
Very tender hearted.
I forgot 7 – one cat Creamer, and two dogs Sammy and Roxy
1. Debbie, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
2. I have celebrated my 36th birthday 18 times (making me really 53)
3. I was 7 and I was at a Salvation Army evening service and it was “alter call”
4.I am a stay at home student of the word and housewife (and someday, I might be a “blogger” we’ll see what God has up.)
5. #1 hobby. Um I don’t know if this counts but it would be studying the word and journalling oh and reading (wait — that’s three) No really, there is no greater enjoyment or relaxing thing than that!! (It sounds like a Sunday School answer but its true).
6. No (for a variety of God ordained reason)…but God is going to work that out
7. We have a Kitty Cat who is quite tiny. Her name is Amazon (irony?)
8.Biggest disappointment…oh my…can’t think of it right now as our life has been pretty crazy and filled with all sorts of disappointments that we are really focusing on seeing as God “appointments”…
Greatest elation — oh, The Nehemiah Study (no kidding, it changed so much for me) and the Living Proof Live event here that got me ready for it!
9.Perfect Saturday…driving to the Mountains with my man (husband of nearly 30 years) in his mustang — with the top down and the sun shining! (and it would be even perfecter with Robin Mark playing on the radio)
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am (I asked my husband for help on this. He said “amazing” but that’s only his opinion and I’m glad to share it 🙂 ) introverted (again, that was with his help but it is bang on! Nobody but those who know me well know that — and even one of my bestest friends is just learning that).
1. Bitsy, In a small town in beautiful Middle TN, just a hop, skip and a jump from my hometown of Nashville.
2. 50 going on 35. Ok. 37. But that’s my final offer. HA!
3. Been a believer since April 2001… after spending most of my life as a lost church member. Accepted Christ in my former worship pastor’s office following a long period of soul-searching, following my first husband’s passing.
4. I am a private studio music instructor in violin and voice, and a freelance musician.
5. Hmmm… Since I get to do what I love for a living (and I get to do it a lot because I live near Nashville), I really don’t have a lot of time for real “hobbies” per se… I love people, though… and enjoy spending time with friends when I can get it.
6. Yes, my husband and I are involved in a Baptist church near our home…
7. Pets – YES! Four feline furbabies at our house… Gracie (age 20), Oreo (age 2) and twin orange tabbies, Rocky and Top (age 6 months.) I also once owned a shihtzu named Mercy… but she was too hyper for Gracie, so she became a preacher’s dog…
8. Disappointment – Nothing recent that I am willing to share here. Elation – When my niece was born last year.
9. Spending the day with my husband… usually watching a University of Tennessee football or Nashville Sounds (minor league baseball team) ballgame… hanging out at home… being LAZY (not something I get to do much!!) 😀
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am not a totally stereotypical violin geek. I am a TOTAL cut-up, love normal life stuff (same kinds of things that everybody else does…)And I am sooooo not the brainiac that you would expect, despite my instrument of choice.
1. Sherry from Melbourne Beach, FL; formerly from Springfield, TN
2. I’m loving my 5th decade, 51 to be exact!
3. I accepted Jesus at a Pentecostal tent revival in Harlan, KY when I was 12 years old. I wasn’t nurtured at that time but gave my life to him completely, beside my husband, when I was 31. We were baptized together on Easter Sunday. I still cry like a baby every time I see someone rise up out of that water!
4. I’m a family nurse practitioner celebrating my 30th year as a nurse
5. Reading, mostly nonfiction
6. Still praying about joining, but yes…..Calvary Chapel, Melbourne, FL
7. I have 3 precious Maltese puppies. My females Bella and Bailye are 2 and my little prince Bentley is 8. He’s recently started having seizures. Surely God doesn’t mind that I pray for my little fella to be healed, does he?
8. Disappointment: the loss of a friendship that I was unable to mend, as much as I wish I could have.
Elation: spending our summer in New England, reconnecting with our precious family
9. Sleeping late and going to our favorite breakfast place, then wandering down to the beach for a few hours. Maybe an afternoon nap then dinner with friends outside on the patio. Finish it off watching a custom God-made Florida sunset over the river. Bliss!
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am insecure and shy in crowds. On the outside, I seem outgoing, but it’s usually an act and very difficult. I’m relational by nature and really prefer very small groups.
1. Fort Wayne, Indiana…. soon to be Kasana, Luwero, Uganda
2. 32
3. approximately 5 yrs old kneeling by the radiator looking up at the stars. My parents were having a Christmas party downstairs. Didn’t totally understand it all.. but knew I did not want to go to hell. So thankful God reeled me in despite my lack of understanding.
4. Nurse on a Surgical floor.
5. hanging with friends.
6. just sent off my high school seniors small group girls to college….anticipating this next season of moving to Uganda and following as He leads.
7. No, but I would love to have a “sugar bear”
8. Watching as God has opened the door to move to Uganda and be His hands and feet. Not going to lie… such a dream come true!
9. sleep in, hang with my niece and nephew, sit by a crackling fire.
10 I can actually be very shy.
1-Libby Haynes, Dallas TX
2-48
3-we went to church my entire growing up years, but it wasn’t until about 12 years ago that I was drawn to a serious walk with the Lord.
4-I have a furniture store & design business.
5-My horse is my hobby.
6-I belong to a Methodist church that I love because I was raised Methodist, but my spirit is fed by a Tuesday noon fellowship luncheon sheparded by a take-your-breath-away man of God called Smokey.
7-Of course, pets! My sweet English Bulldog Pilgrim, 10. My wild bird dog, Huckleberry, 3. My sweet seniorly horse Alamo, 22.
8-Heart of my heart I continue to be so devastated that the Lord has not brought my husband. EVER.
9-Saturday includes a reformer class at BodyBar, unstructured time to catch up on reading & Twitter links & no demands, followed by a visit to my parents with dinner at somewhere – hopefully Mexican!
10-Only people who really know me realize I am loyal, sold-out, transparent, perserverant (& maybe thin-skinned?? I hate that!).
Love your ministry, Beth Moore!
1. Megan, Florida
2. 31
3. 2nd grade in my grandma’s kitchen
4. physical therapy
5. cycling
6. UMC
7. golden retriever
8. Having surgery. But praise God for being cancer free!
9. A long bike ride followed by Starbucks!
10. One of ten children 🙂
Cindy from Dacula, Georgia
57
12 yrs old…at a Christian summer camp
Substitute teacher
Newest hobby…shopping for my first grandchild who will be born in 8 weeks! Praise God!
12Stone Church
Casey, our spoiled-rotten cocker spaniel
Spending time with a friend who just had a double mastectomy…being spiritually fed by her in her amazing faith-filled recovery! God is good!
Spending the day tailgating at the Big House in Ann Arbor, Mi and then cheering on the Wolverines to a big win!
Only people who really know me know that I … love chocolate!!!
1. Angie Call
Belleville,IL (Near St. Louis, Mo)
2. 25
3. I accepted Christ when I was five years old, did the church thing, and rededicated my life to The Lord when I was 16.
4. Student, I want to do investigative work for the government, and minister to women who have been in the system.
5. I would have to say my number one hobby is either reading, or volunteer work.
6. Yes, and actually tonight we just had an appreciation dinner where Pastor Tommy Barnett spoke on servant hood. We are located in Shiloh which is right down the road from where I live, it is nondenominational.
7. Technically I do, I am living with my folks till Jan. and they have a dog. His name is boots and he is shizoo(?) and poodle mix.
8. Allowing the wrong people in my inner circle/making my current church my home.
9. Well, my perfect Saturday would be to attend a bible study where Darlene Zschech is leading worship and the guest speakers are: Beth Moore, Lisa bevere, Joyce Meyer, and Joel Olsteen. And of course being able to ask them questions.
10 Only people who really know me realize that I am a giver at heart, and completely humble.___________________________________________________________________.
How do I answer the questions? I can’t type in where they are.
Lawan Rivera – 55
Lawton, OK
Accepted Jesus when I was 10 years old at Sunday school. Never really knew much about having a relationship with Jesus until I did my first Beth Moore study. Now I’m in love with Him and His word.
Retired from the hospitality industry. Currently working part time managing the world of a very busy entrepreneur.
Love to read & do mosaics with my grandkids
Attend Lifechurch.tv simulcast church
Last pet a cocker spaniel, Chief, who died a year ago.
Disappointment – when my grandson, who I raised, fathered a baby outside of marriage/elation- when the baby was born! He continues to be a joy and we are spending more time with his unbelieving mother, showing her the love of Jesus!
Perfect Saturday this time of year is visiting pumpkin patches with the whole family, going through corn mazes, choosing pumpkins, hay rides, petting barn animals! It’s a blast!
1. Kathy from Lake Jackson, Texas (on the coast)
2. 62 ½ (but I don’t feel a day over 50)
3. At age 10, on returning to my home church after a
truly amazing week at Bible Camp in Kansas
4. I retired as a teacher 8 years ago, but I substituted
and tutored nearly every day for the last 8 years.
This year, I am truly retired and enjoying it.
5. Photography
6. Not currently, but I am a 5-year steady attendee of a
local Bible Study group made up of teachers
7. Not currently. In the past we have had cats,
hamsters, guinea pigs, fish and a small rat snake.
When you are old, you hit the wrong buttons. I need to finish my answers.
8. Disappointment: Summer vacation was not a vacation
(3 ½ weeks taking care of mother-in-law with
Alzheimers while family caregiver vacationed and 3
½ weeks caring for my father while his caregiver
vacationed)
Elation: We were able to spend lots of time with
our elderly parents. One lives 23 hours away by
car, and the other lives 11.
9. Being with my husband in a state or national park
to photograph sunrise, walk around all day long
with our cameras (maybe seeing some really good
wildlife to shoot), and shoot a gorgeous sunset
with a relaxing dinner to following.
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am
not as self-confident as everyone thinks I am.
1. Judy Sullivan, MO
2. 53
3. 47 – not exactly sure… within hours or weeks from the time my sister in law prayed for me
4. operating room nurse
5. weaving
7. 3 Bedlington Terriers
8. my sweet mom went to be with Jesus
9. hanging out at home on my small farm, and doing “stuff”.
10. I am really shy
1. Jamie Green in Katy, TX
2. mid-50s
3. I accepted Christ when I was six years old at a real Tent Revival in Borger, Texas. I’d been in church all the time, but was so convicted of my sin, I just had to come to Jesus.
4. After years of being a stay-at-home mom, I am now a speech-language pathologist in an elementary school.
5. I enjoy scrapbooking, but love to read (Keller, Chandler, Piper, Carson lately)
6. Yes. Houston’s First Baptist Church. We love it, but it is such a drive, we’re praying about a church that’s closer. Suggestions?
7. A Cairn Terrier (like “Toto” from the Wizard of Oz) who is 11.
8. Biggest recent disappointment? One of my daughters had her heart broken. Biggest elation? That my four-year-old grandson loves God’s Word & wants to tell me about it.
9. Perfect Saturday: sleeping in a little, good brunch in a clean house with my darling husband, visits/calls from our grown children, dinner out with friends, walking on a non-humid evening, hand-in-hand with my sweetheart of 35 years.
10. Only people who really know me realize how insecure I am. (I’ve heard there’s a good book to help with that )
1. Kathleen Cantwell- Albuquerque, NM
2. 48 years young
3. 1981- at 17 yrs old at Young Life Frontier Ranch in Colorado
4. My husband and I own and operate a Landscape Business, certified as a 7-12 teacher (on hold) Pursuing certification in Biblical Counseling with hopes of working in my church
5. Fitness- Running, Cycling, Swimming -Triathlon – Hiking (anything outdoors)
6. Grace Church Albuquerque(non denominational)- 22 years!
7. Border Collie- Riley (my bff)
8. Failed attempt at reconciliation with a family member / Having my son home for break from DBU college!
9. Wake up early, STRONG cup of coffee, extended time in the Word, long bike ride, breakfast w/ hubby, hang out with hubby/family, read in the afternoon followed by a nap, out to dinner and a movie, home and to bed not too late.
10. I am a practical joker, and have a way of getting people to do funny things for a laugh and get them to not take life so seriously.
1. Amanda, northeast Ohio
2. 25
3. At the church I was raised in when I was a little girl
4. I am a nanny
5. Scrapbooking/writing/photography
6. Grace Cathedral & Christ Community Chapel
7. Haylie Brooke Gianna Soleil – My 7 yr old 9 lb furbaby (shichon = shih tzu/bichon frise cross)
8. Breaking up with the man I was going to marry //the family I work for as a nanny just had a baby boy and he’s so precious!
9. Sleeping in, a long nap, then dinner & a movie with my best friend
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am vulnerable, shy, and I fall hard and fast
1. Linsey, Fort Worth, Tx
2. 30
3. I was 7 when I accepted Jesus into my heart. It was during Vacation Bible School
4. I teach high school agriculture.
5. I love to read and watch movies.
6. Yes, I have been visiting Travis Avenue Baptist Church
7. I have a German Shepard named Murphy and a Pomeranian named Millie ( she is the boss)
8. Not always following the path God has for me. Seeing God in my everyday day life from the gorgeous sunrises to him answering my prayers.
9. Spending it with friends and family hanging out.
10 Complete this sentence: Only people who really know me realize that I am not as strong as I appear.
1. Corinne outside of Chehalis, Washington
2. only a few more months in my fabulous 50s
3. I do not know where or when I accepted Jesus as my Savior but I remember the time and place when I asked Him to be my Savior and my Lord: Cannon Beach high school camp, Thursday night, August, 1968
4. I am now a full-time caregiver for my husband of 37+ years who has early onset Alzheimer’s disease that is progressing rapidly. He was diagnosed 17 days before the LPL conference in Portland, Oregon in April 2009. It still amazes me how the Lord spoke to me that weekend through Beth and the team.
5. quilting
6. yes – long-time members of a Presbyterian church and in Bible study and helping as a MOPS mentor mom at an Assembly of God church
7. Zeus the Rottweiler, who is a great big baby of a dog
8. recent elation – having all 4 granddaughters move this summer within a few hours drive from our home, after having them across the state and across the country. This is one happy grandma!
9. peaceful sleep, good food and lots of family gathered
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am hanging on by a thread, most days…
My name is Melinda, and I live in Kentucky – just southwest of Lexington.
I am 41 years old… still trying to wrap my brain around that. 🙂
I was accepted Christ as Savior and was baptized at 16, but I don’t think I really started walking with him or growing until I was in college.
I am a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom of three blessings, ages 10, 8, and 5. I make a little money on the side with a photography business and by creating the occasional fancy birthday cake.
My #1 hobby is photography. If I weren’t homeschooling, I’d turn it into a full-time thing. I like to do it as a ministry, providing beautiful portraits of children for parents who would not otherwise be able to afford it.
I am currently invested in a body of believers at Grace PCA church. Love it dearly.
We have a family cat named Sally. She officially belongs to my oldest daughter, but she decided very early on that I was her pet… existing to serve and spoil her. She is very affectionate and tolerant of children. Which is a good thing in this house.
Okay, my biggest recent elation was getting to go shopping at Sam Moon in Houston, TX (where my hubby is from and his family still resides – and how I became acquainted with Beth Moore bible studies on Tuesday nights, way back in the 90’s). I spent WAY more than reasonable on all kinds of accessories. I felt like I’d gone to accessory heaven. Still floating, and wearing my Texas bling in the Bluegrass.
A perfect Saturday… sleeping in, beautiful sunshine, time with my husband and kids to just… be. And enjoy each other. And maybe get some photographs in the process.
Only people who really know me realize I stress way too much over my appearance.
I’m Pam from Portland, 53 years old, saved since 1980-something. Maybe sooner, but really chose the day, diapering my son Matty, watching Billy Grahm on TV and saying, OK…time to get off the pot. Prayed the prayer againg and made a serious commitment…again. I’m a dental hygienist (for money) and a writer (my passion) and I love my church family at Athey Creek Christian Fellowship in Wilsonville Oregon. Our dog Lucky is on her last leg. 17 years old and trying so hard not to leave us dogless. We have Apple the cat, and Christy the psyco cat. Other than that there are 50 sheep next door and Mr. Gingriches Llammas accross the street. We live in the country.
The reason I wanted to comment on this post, which I rarely do, but love reading it, is question #8. Disappointment and elation. Well, never have I had such a contrast in my life before. My oldest daughter will be married next Friday, to a man that God has surely brought into her life as a blessing and a rock of leadership. We are all so happy and ready for this union and are praising God for these little miracles that He blesses us with. On the other end of the spectrum…our son is missing. Three weeks and one day. He has a history with drugs and has pretty much fallen off the face of our radar. He is a drug (probably heroine) addict and a believer. Some of you won’t believe he could be both, but he is. So I am living these days with a side of me that is rejoicing over the good fortune (sense and sensibility lingo) of my daughter, and the tragidy of my missing son. I pray that he will be a prodigal, one who returns after revelation. But I’m not even sure he is alive. I try to put on the face of the Mother of the Bride, a happy, lively and hopeful face for my precious daughter. What pulls are put on our hearts as mothers. Such polar opposites. Is this anything like how far our sin is from our heavenly Father. As far as the east is from the west. That’s how far my emotions stretch me tonight. Thanks for reading. Pray for Daniel, he is a struggling believer.
Diana Bellefontaine, Ohio
56
I Grew up going to church and always thought I was a Christian. I knew I was missing something in my life and at age 18 went to a retreat and heard a couple of women talk about Jesus like they knew Him. I immediately knew that was what I had been looking for.
Psychiatric nurse in a women’s prison
Reading
Vineyard Christian Fellowship Church
Yorkie name Lucille (only when she’s bad) usually Lucy
When I heard my nephew was leaving his wife of 7 years/Looking forward to retiring in December after 30 years of working for the State of Ohio
Lounging around
A messy
Rosalye, Vicksburg, MS
71-YIKES!
Age 6 – at the time of my first communion. Really Fell head over heels in love with Jesus at age 26 after marriage and birthing my first son.
Retired 1st-3rd grade teacher.
Addiction to games and puzzles on iPad.
First Baptist Church, Vicksburg, MS
Cats: Pekah, Lucy, Midnight
Seeing an unsaved friend that I’ve prayed for and witnessed to for over 40 yrs/ seeing my 15 yr old granddaughter stand by her Christian convictions when with her friends!
Resting at home with my Man of 47 yrs.
I was adopted.
Stay active on here with us, Rosalye! We NEED to journey along with women who have been married for a whopping 47 years.
1. Kelly . New Berlin, WI
2. 32
3. I accepted Christ at age 7 after a Sunday night service when my pastor preached on Hell. That might before bed, I asked my dad to pray with me to ask Jesus into my heart.
4. Stay at home mom
5. Event planning
6. Waukesha First Assembly of God
7. No
8. Not being able to attend an iMoms class for childcare problems (I have a 3 & 4 year old) / The Holy Spirit revealing clearer vision about my path in women’s ministries, nothing feels better!!!
9. Breakfast with my family followed by a day of fall outdoor fun, ended with take out & snuggling up to a good movie
10. Only people that really know me realize that I am actually an introvert 🙂
1. Lisa, Little Elm, deep in the heart of Texas!
2. Just turned 52.
3. I accepted Christ at the tender age of 8 — on a sultry summer night at a Christian summer camp in Louisiana. I grew up in a Christian home and heard the gospel from infancy, but this time I fully knew and understood that Jesus died for ME. And my life has never been the same.
4. I was a stay-at-home mom for 20 blissful years, then went to school for a year and just recently became a Certified Surgical Technologist. I work in the Labor & Delivery unit of my hospital and love my job — I celebrate someone’s birthday every day!
5. My #1 hobbies are photography, scrapbooking, and sewing. Yes, I know that’s more than one. But I love them all equally, so they’re all #1!
6. I’ve attended Denton Bible Church for the past 24 years. I love, love, love my precious church home!
7. I have ALWAYS had pets. Specifically, I’ve owned at least one golden retriever for the past 28 years. My current darling is Jack, who makes every day a delight. He’s the heartbeat at my feet, and a true friend. I also share my home with two cats, Lizzie and Willie, and a lovebird named Stewie. I would have a miniature donkey, too, if my husband would let me.
8. Biggest disappointment: my prodigal daughter running from God, getting pregnant out of wedlock. Biggest elation: the birth of my amazing, beautiful, precious-beyond-words granddaughter Reagan. Beauty out of ashes.
9. My perfect Saturday would be horseback riding in Hawaii. But since I can’t do that, it would be hanging out with my hubby of almost 30 years and my 4 funny, delightful daughters. Or taking a nap. Or all of the above!
10. Only people who really know me realize that I am a complete goofball.
Sandy Lynne Leatherman, Muskogee, OK
41
During revival services at church.
I work at a small mom & pop diner, that is also connected to an oil change place….so you can eat a hot dog while you wait to have your oil changed!!! 🙂
My hobbies have taken a back seat to work & attending all of my kids’ activities….
Timothy Baptist Church
I have Yorkie named Max. Westie named Ella. Then 2 outside dogs; Buddy & Sam.
My disappointment is, not having my Mom around. She died suddenly 3 years ago. My biggest elation, getting rid of the “mom” car & driving a 2012, 6 speed, black Mustang!!
Hanging out with my husband & 3 kids.
People that really know me, know that I suffer from chronic depression & anxiety.
1. Pam Stewart. Olathe, KS
2. 49 and holding………
3. Sunday a.m. Felt called to go down after the sermon. Was baptized immed. Following
It was the Sun rt before the wk of my 13th b.d.
4. Taught school for 8yrs. Now I work at a MDO in the 2yr old classroom!!
5. Stamping/card making
6. Church of Christ
7. 2 black labs ages 9&10. The 10yr old is a rescue. He’s been ours for 8yrs now!! Adopting a pet
Is such a rewarding experience!!!
8. Disappointment-not being healed from 11yrs of chronic pain. Have gone through so many
Emotions over this!! ;(
Elation- I’m free from sin & death!!! Jesus died for me!! PTL!!
9. Cabin in the mts. Beauty day-perfect weather, sunshine. Sitting on the deck w/my husband and
2 dogs just taking it all in. God IS good. ALL the time!!
10. Only people that really know me know that I am very insecure!! Eeekkk!!!
Dina M Mountains of NC
38 & proud!
All alone kids napping watching Joyce Meyer, thought she was just another motivational speaker, hit my knees on the cold tile floor and I was forever changed! 🙂
I am a disabled SAHM
Ive learned to make friendship bracelets from little girls youtube videos & lovin it big!! I make them for friends even the ones Ive never met IRL and anoint & pray over them before I send em
We do a home based churches 😀
We have 2 mallard ducks & 3 perfect Canines (SHH dont tell them that they are canines)
I lost my Aunt, best friend, more of a mom to me then my BM/ Elation… still waiting 🙁
Sitting along a river bank with friends and family enjoying a nice picnic
Only people who really know me realize that I am wounded