I *heart* the beach...

Yes, she brought that HOT blanket to the beach






This past weekend. We had the pleasure of my sister and her family's company at Ocean Isle Beach, NC. Let me tell you. I love going to the beach.
My first trip was in 2001 on a whim with James to Kure Beach, NC. Well, unless you count the time in '84 when my dad took us to Coney Island, but my mother made sure we didn't go anywhere near the sand or water(yuck).
Anyway, this annual trip is now a tradition. Hope to add more family next year.

One of the reasons James liked coming to Ocean Isle this year(usually, it's Myrtle Beach, SC), is that there is a church service right on the beach Sunday mornings. I was a little reluctant to go because I wanted to sleep more. However James was insistent- (insert Stern/yet loving man voice here)church doesn't stop just because you go on vacation. I agree, and it was a great service. The Gospel was preached. I pray that the Holy Spirit opened some one's eyes to the Cross of Christ, the Good News.

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So just pondering now the things I want to accomplish or have in place by the end of this year:

• Pray more. More quiet time for prayer


• Read Bible. The Gospels


• Read Barclay's(sp) book on The Letter to the Romans


• Organize the new house better. We will only be there 6-8 months, but it will help


• Organize our finances, bills, and budget better


• Last but not least. Ad nauseum...Eat healthier.

Were settling in...

...little ones enjoying breakfast on the deck(yes baby girl has on the blue cinderella dress)


...my big girl giving an encore to her stunning rendition of the "veggie tales" intro.

Home that a dear brother and sister in the Lord provided. We are so grateful.
God is Good . He is Faihful. Praise and Glory to Him forever!
On July 27th we had a fire in the home we rented. We were homeless by 9am. God took such good care of my children. No one was hurt. James and I were both at work when the sitter became distracted and forgot she was frying on the stove. Pray for her. She has been dealing with so much guilt. But we love her and value her service. How many times have I been distracted by one of my children- it happens!
So, The Lord provided and I mean overflowing. It's August 18 and I was still saying thankyou to gifts and clothing a couple of days ago. We can't even hold all the provision that He has provided.
But more than material things, He has given us His Peace in this ordeal. Praise Him. People ask me have I broke down or cried over the loss, and I haven't. I can't explain it. I am not much of a crier anymore, but this has been overwhelming at times-but no tears. Just Joy.
We have had our frustrations and tense moments, but never were we without His Peace of mind. Thank You Jesus.
So we are in a new city. With new things. Some things were given to us, some bought new by others. It's all new to us!
I am not doing justice to my feelings because they are inexpressible still- even weeks after. I'm sure I will write more later.