My 28 Thanks:

1. Judah and I had a relaxing morning.

2. I was not in a rush to go anywhere.

3. We watched the Croods again together. Judah laughed every 5 seconds and said, “Mommy, that was so munny (funny)!”

4. Judah helped me dust. He sprayed and I wiped.

5. My mom arrived at 1:00.

6. I was quickly trying to back out of the garage before my alarm completely set. In my hurry, I forgot that the back passenger door was open. Even though I almost ripped the door off, Judah was safe and didn’t fall out of the car.

7. My mom and I had a super fun day of shopping.

8. The ladies at one store where so helpful and fun. When my mom found out that one of them has never eaten at Pei Wei, she invited her to lunch with us. Of course, she couldn’t come because she was working. but, this is so my mom!

9. My mom is friendly, never meets a stranger, and always makes people feel special and loved.

10. My mom is bold and courageous. I want to be like her when I grow up:)

11. Judah was awesome while shopping. He didn’t complain or fuss at all.

12. I got to talk to my sis-in-law, Meghan, today. She is doing well. Even though we live a few miles apart, our lives are busy and we don’t see each other often.

13. Perfect weather.

14. Two of our testimonial videos are great. We have worked really hard to tell a perfect story of God’s redemption and resurrection power. We received two final copies yesterday.

15. Your story is powerful.

16. Jesus can make a message out of your mess!

17. Redemption and Restoration. I love beauty from ashes stories.

18. Gage and Kolt came over to spend the night.

19. We had a great time playing outside in the cul-de-sac. Riding bikes and drawing in side walk chalk was super fun.

20. Gage, Kolt, and Judah played really well together.

21. Popcorn + Movie + Family + Laughter = Awesome.

22. My brother, Kyle, told us some of his adventure stories from his Colorado Elk hunting trip.

23. Eddie Loomis came through his back surgery well. Glad he is on the mend.

24. Kyle adjusted my back and it felt better.

25. My dad and brother will both be without pay next week. But, their hope is in the Lord, not the government.

26. My hope is in the Lord.

27. Hope is never lost.

28. The Righteous suffer many afflictions, but the Lord rescues them from it all.

My 28 Thanks:

1. Gary got home somewhat early from the first station so we could see each other before I left for work.

2. Judah was excited to spend the day with his daddy.

3. The Sweet Life series is ready for launch. I am super excited for this series on obedience.

4. Gary helped me with my door prop. I am thankful for my handy husband.

5. Gary loves to do things in excellence too. So, he works extra hard to make things excellent for kids ministry.

6. My new set of boys Bibles came in today. Mr. Jerold will be so excited to have them in his Sunday school class on Sunday!

7. Hugo, one of our new, awesome, custodial team members, carried the box of Bibles for me because they were too heavy for me to carry! He said, “Kara, anything you need me to help you with, you come and get me.” I love helpful people.

8. I was able to have lunch with my friend, Deborah, today. And, she blessed me with my meal.

9. The Lord has done some great things in Deborah’s life in the last year. And, He is just getting started. When you step out and trust Him, He will work on your behalf.

10. I have a job and don’t have to worry about the church ever shutting down. On Monday, both my dad and brother will be off-work until the government gets its act together. Believing this fiasco is short lived. Thankful that our trust is in the Lord and not the government.

11. Today is the birthday of my new friend, Talena, and an old friend, Bev. Both of these ladies have hearts of gold, a love for the Lord, and an incredible love for people.

12. I got to help out a friend today.

13. Curiosity.

14. Accomplishment.

15. I didn’t have to work late today. I got everything done and was able to enjoy the evening with my family…free from work!

16. When we woke Judah up from his late, late afternoon nap, he was in a great mood.

17. Gary and I have not eaten out all week. We cooked at home every night!

18. I had a great, well overdue conversation with my Cali friend, Danielle. I am so glad things are going well for Rony and her.

19. Judah got to eat meatballs for dinner. He loves meatballs.

20. We went on an evening walk around the neighborhood. Judah still loves to stop and read off mailbox numbers.

21. Judah wanted to hold my hand while we walked.

22. Our neighborhood is so peaceful and the people in it are so friendly.

23. Family Movie night…We watched The Croods and had a blast laughing together.

24. Primitive days are over. I love modern day amenities.

25. The Croods, although a Dreamworks, non-Biblical film, presented some great messages on the power of fear and the importance of over-coming it.

26. The words, “I Love You,” are so powerful. We say them all the time in our home.

27. We are an affectionate family. We give out hugs, high fives, smiles, kisses, and words of affirmation freely and often.

28. My mom is coming to visit me this weekend!

My 28 Thanks:

1. Judah didn’t fuss when I dressed him in nice clothes for picture day at school.

2. I had fun conversation with my new friend, Kristy Starling. Our kids go to the same school and we live in the same neighborhood.

3. I got to drop Judah off and pick him up from school.

4. My friends “had my back” today and helped me avoid a particular situation that wouldn’t have been ideal.

5. I haven’t spent money on lunch all week. Bringing your lunch to work saves time and money.

6. Janelle helped me put together my game for Wednesday Night Kids.

7.  Judah’s teachers were so kind and after pictures they changed him into play clothes so he could be more comfortable.

8. My nephew, Ethan, broke his arm. Thankfully, he will not need surgery.

9. Even though my heart is heavy for those being affected by the government shut down, I am so thankfully that ultimately the government is upon HIS shoulders. I don’t have to fear.

10. I am in this world, but I am not of this world.

11. Judah and I got to rest before going back to church.

12. Judah ate all of his dinner tonight before church.

13. Michelle Halbrook is super thoughtful. She blesses many families at our church.

14. Ministry went well.

15. People who always think about others first are such a blessing.

16. Tonight, I received one of the greatest compliments ever. A family came up to me before service started. I hadn’t seen this family for about 3-4 months. They told me they had started visiting other churches just to see what was out there. At the end of this “church hopping” journey, their kids told them that of all the churches they had been to, they wanted to go to Crossroads Kidz because they had the best praise and worship, best lessons, and best games! My team rocks.

17. Encouragement.

18.  The kids loved the new countdown slide I played tonight. It turned out to be a fun pre-service game.

19. Surprises. When something ordinary turns out to be fun for kids, you have success.

20. Despite popular opinion, kids are still easily entertained. They really just want interaction with you!

21. The youth ministry had an awesome night at mud bowl.

22. We can have fun at church! We can get really dirty too.

23. Car ride conversations with Judah are the best. We had so much fun picking out the colors of street lights as we drove home last night.

24. I was smart and gave Judah a bath before church. So, our after church bedtime routine was so much easier.

25. I had a great late night phone conversation with my childhood best friend. It is always nice to catch up.

26. Gary is getting practice riding out as the officer in charge. His promotion is fast approaching. I am proud of him.

27.  We talked about ghosts tonight in my small group. We had great conversation and I hope the girls left empowered, knowing that we don’t have to be afraid and we should never mess with the evil side of the supernatural.

28. The Word of God brings truth and sheds light on every subject matter.

My 28 Thanks:

1. The book of Proverbs.

2. Joyce Meyer Ministries.

3. Joyce Meyer Ministries, as well as others, are committed to reaching out to every part of the world with hands of hope.

4. Judah and I have huggle time almost every morning. Huggles are hugs+snuggles=huggles!

5. Most people think that I am fearless when it comes to public speaking. That is not the case, however. I always get nervous. But, staff chapel went well. And, even though I was “afraid,” I did it.

6. The team like the activity.

7. Small Groups and interaction.

8. Janelle is multi-talented. She really made my presentation better with her large, cartoon like characters.

9. Great insight and revelation comes from collaboration.

10. Teams.

11. Pastor Ted turned another year older today. We surprised him with a birthday lunch and it worked. He had no idea.

12. My new friend, Jessica Fellers, celebrated her birthday too. She is so sweet, a great mom, and loves life.

13. My baby brother and his wife, Madison, celebrate 3 years of marriage today. I had the honor of performing their ceremony. With odds stacked against them, they are winning. I am proud of them. Both are great parents and hard-working young adults.

14. Gary made me an awesome door for my message illustration this coming Sunday.

15. Judah was an awesome helper today.

16. This door will not only serve as a great sermon prop, but also will be used in our Christmas production. I love “killing two birds with one stone.”

17. Johnny Carinos was super helpful in finding a lost receipt for me.

18. I had a great conversation with a guy named Lance Lang. Lance started a ministry called “Hope is Alive.” After losing everything due to serious addictions, Lance is now free and started a ministry to help others get clean-physically, spiritually, and mentally.

19. I get to help people.

20. I thought we were going to eat oatmeal for dinner. But, then I discovered that I had all the ingredients to make Gary’s favorite casserole-Green Enchiladas. It was awesome. Nevertheless, the oatmeal would have been healthier.

21. Gary ran to the store and got groceries after dinner.

22. Finally got to talk to my mother-in-law about their trip. They had a BLAST.

23. Pastor Ted text me a “Great Job” today text.

24. Pastor Tami and I shared an open conversation about expectations, pressure, and more!

25. Starla is feeling better.

26. Our nursery calendar is well-staffed for October. Yes, we still want to recruit others to lead and serve, but for now, we can breathe a sigh of relief. Every children’s pastor or nursery director out there understands completely what I am saying.

27. New people are in my life.

28. Relationships.

My 28 Thanks:

This morning, I got up early and read my Sparkling Gems devotion by Rick Renner. The title  read, “A Bitter Root Produces Sour Fruit.” Hebrews 12:15 tells us that we should look out for one another so that none of us fail to receive God’s grace. We should also watch out and make sure NO poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble us, corrupting not just our lives, but also the lives of many.

God’s grace is sufficient and it is freely given out to us. Because it is a gift freely given to us, we should also give grace freely and sufficiently to others. Remember the principle…”to whom much is given, much is required.” When people hurt our feelings, mistake our actions or words, or cause us harm, we can give out grace, knowning that we have sown it, so we should also reap it. Trust me, I definitely want to receive grace from others…so, I am going to dish it out.

Dishing out grace helps me uproot bitterness. Bitterness is a poison and it not only affects me, but it can also affect those around me. Check out this make believe scenario as I explore this topic further.

 Person A walked by me in the hallway at church and didn’t smile or say hello to me. I can’t believe Person A would be so rude. I bet they are mad at me. I am going to go ask my other friend, Person B, and see what he thinks. “Hi, Person B. So, I have a question. Person A walked by me, didn’t smile and didn’t say hello. Do you think something is up? Haven’t you noticed them acting weird lately? Regardless, I can’t believe they would hurt me like that.” Person B replies, “You know…now that you bring up that situation, let me tell you waht Person A did to me the other day.  I tried to get a hold of her on the phone. She didn’t answer, didn’t call me back, and didn’t bother to send me a text. Some friend she is. She can’t even return phone calls.”

Unfortuntely, this silly scenario plays out in some form all the time. Instead of going to Person A and seeing what is up, the Narrator allows a seed of bitterness to take root and from there her thoughts flourish into all different directions. Her thoughts and actions are poisoned and then she spreads that poison to those around her.

Bitterness traps you and it keeps you from finding out the truth a lot of times. You see, if the Narrator and Person B would just approach Person A in love, they would discover that Person A has been overwhelmed with the care of her sick, dying mother. They would find out that Person A has been taking 24 hour care of her mom, as well as two households, working full-time, and still trying to maintain a life of some normalcy. And, Person A didn’t even realize she didn’t smile or wave or say “hello” because she was in deep thought about the whole situation. Or, Person A is overwhelmed with the news that her husband received deployment orders. Or, Person A is saddened by the results of blood tests. Or, Person A is having trouble with a teenage son. Whatever the case maybe, Person A is in a season of life that needs grace to given out.

Don’t allow bitterness to take root and sour your fruit. Give out grace instead.

My 28 Thanks:

1. My morning walk was chilly and made a great start to my day.

2. God’s Word is a daily Gem.

3. Gary and I had some quiet time with the Lord before Judah woke up.

4. Gary is off work today and can take Judah to school for me.

5. Judah is learning so much about the Bible at his school. He has a triple dose-Home, Church, and School.

6. Christian Education.

7. Oklahoma is still a fairly conservative state.

8. I won fantasy football for the 4th week in a row. I am the only one in my league undefeated. Yes, this is a fun year!

9. A simple wave, hand-shake, or smile can change your day. I love to give those out. They are such easily delivered expressions.

10. Gary and Eric mowed my in-laws grass. So, when they got home from their trip, their yard looked lovely!

11. Judah loved his lunch. His daddy surprised him with subway meatballs. He ate all of them.

12. Judah made a creation book at school.

13. He told us the story, word by word, several times.

14. He let me record him telling the story.

15. Technology allows me to send videos to my family who lives away.

16. Judah’s grandmas take great interest in everything he does. I am so thankful that my son has two sets of awesome grandparents.

17. I am completely prepared for staff chapel.

18. Grace.

19. Because Gary had the day at home, he cooked dinner and I got to play outside with the cutest 3 year old. We had fun with the frisbee.

20. We played with side walk chalk.

21. The evening weather is perfect.

22. We met some new neighbors. They seem like a really sweet couple who loves Jesus.

23. The opportunity to meet new people.

24. Family hide-and-seek is so fun. We play it often

25. We had an evening away from technology.

26. Old fashioned games like frisbee, side-walk chalk, hide-n-seek, and tag are fun, never get old, and took up our evening.

27. We love the front yard. Often, we have back porch mentalities. I love my back porch too. But, there is something special about the front yard. Time spent there communicates availibility, community, and conversation.

28. I get much accomplished on Mondays.

My 28 Thanks:

1. Made it to church on time.

2. We were short staffed in some areas and people came through to help out at the last minute.

3. Deborah Fulton…she is a trooper. In her cute Sunday outfit and high-heeled shoes, she came and rescued us in the 2s room.

4. Angela Lewis…she makes calm. If she is present, I know all will work out.

5. My leaders are flexible.

6. My check-in team is awesome. And, they got a workout before service even started. They are so kind, helpful, and a first class team. They hosted TONS of new families today.

7. I met 10 new families during the Sunday school hour alone.

8. I handed out FOUR kidmin apps from people who approached me about serving in our awesome kids ministry.

9. Someone thought the candy drop-off booths were decorated by my very talente friend, Holly. But, they were decorated by me…my work was compared to the work of HOLLY!!!!! She has taught me a thing or two.

10. I can’t walk down a hallway without getting a ton of hugs.

11. Mr. Jerold’s class had 21 boys in it for Sunday school time. 21 is no longer a small group:)

12. After service, the preschool team had an awesome lunch and learn.

13. Lori presented great information on how to discipline and how to play.

14. I ordered just enough food. Everyone was full and no food was left.

15. Someone took a GIANT step and told me their heart today. And, the enemy lost power  in that situation and the healing process has begun!

16. I met so many cool people today.

17. People loved the team teaching with Pastor Ted and Tami.

18. Everything excites Judah. I love experiencing life through his eyes.

19. My friend, Laura, hung out with me tonight at the family life celebration.

20. Church Fellowship.

21. Outdoor parties.

22. People from all different backgrounds hung out together tonight.

23. We wrapped up our 4 week series, Shine Your Light. Kids have been empowered to boldly tell their world about Jesus.

24. Judah had a blast running around and playing with friends tonight. Miss Molly made him feel really special. She has the sweetest heart and care for little kids.

25. Judah is learning at rapid rates.

26. Gary gave Judah his bath tonight.

27. Gary remembered a really cool toy that he purchased Judah at the Fair. When you shoot it in the air, it flies high, spins, and lights up. It was really cool and we had a blast playing.

28. Family.

My 28 Thanks:

1.Gary is home on a Saturday.

2. We enjoyed a lovely morning together as a family.

3. We didn’t leave the house until the afternoon.

4. The morning rain cooled off the temperature. I love watching the rain come down. It is so peaceful.

5. God is creative.

6. Oklahoma is no longer in a drought. We have had a wet summer.

7. The garage is now clean and organized.

8. We went shopping! Judah needs new shoes, but he only wants shoes the light up. It was fun trying to get him to consider shoes without lights. We saved money because we didn’t buy any new shoes.

9. We built an amazing tower out of blocks. It was taller than Judah and he thought that was awesome.

10. Lunch at Pei Wei never disappoints.

11. Gary finally branched out and bought jeans that were close to the “skinny” jean family.

12. I had quiet time to prepare my kidmo message.

13. Peter denied Jesus, but then he bodly proclaimed Jesus and people were saved.

14. Second Chances.

15. The day of Pentecost.

16. The power of the Holy Spirit gives us boldness.

17. The Gospels.

18. I had a blast trying on rings at the jewelers while mine was being cleaned. Gary’s says I have to wait for our 25 year anniversary before I get an upgrade. I think he’s softening!

19. Gary rubbed my back.

20. Judah and Gary make me laugh all the time.

21. Despicable Me was on ABC Family. That’s Judah’s favorite movie.

22. My In-Laws sent us a gift from Vermont. It was a treat basket filled with some of our favorites: maple syrup, pancake mix, granola, and honey!

23. Pancakes for dinner! My house smelled amazing and no one makes maple syrup like the people in Vermont!

24. Thoughtfulness.

25. My In-Laws are having an amazing trip.

26. I enjoyed an evening walk by myself.

27. I can walk in boldness and confidence.

28. Rest.

My 28 Thanks:

1. Judah and I enjoyed a quiet morning at home.

2. We met up with Amy, Asher, and Jairus at the park to play.

3. The park was full of kids having a great time.

4. The park is well cared for and has great climbing toys for Judah.

5. I have two great parks within a mile from my home.

6. The wind kept the 90 degree temp cooler and more enjoyable.

7. Fun conversations with friends.

8. I made great food choices all day.

9. I confirmed a choreographer for this year’s Christmas Production. Bummed that I won’t get to spend time with the talented, Cami Sheaffer, but our new choreographer is amazing too!

10. My mom and I had lots of conversations today about healthy living. I like to talk about health and wellness. She is practically an expert too. She sent me lots of material to read.

11. Asher, Jairus, and Judah have fun playing together. Judah really bonded with them when he stayed at their house while we were at kids camp.

12. My neighbors put up my trash cans for me. I usually try to beat them to the punch and put up theirs. But, they won this week.

13. All the housework has been accomplished, so we can enjoy Gary’s day off tomorrow.

14. My friend, Clayton, helped me with an object lesson for Tuesday’s staff chapel teaching.

15. I sent my family a text letting them know how much I missed them. My sister responded with a sweet text. I am hoping that she will be in the OKC area one day soon. I am 12 years older than her, but the older we get, the age gap gets smaller. I would love to spend more time with her.

16. I have brothers and a sister.

17. My mom and dad are getting to spend a quiet weekend together.

18. Our outreach team has kept almost constant watch over a guy named Bear who was hit by a car last week. He rides to church with our outreach team. They show so much compassion and care. I love this team.

19. Judah and I spent the evening outside-enjoyed the weather and play!

20. Judah loves for me to watch him do things. He has the biggest smile on his face when I cheer him on in a task.

21. Judah is really good at riding his bike. He has great control for a 3 year old and I don’t have any concerns with him hurting himself.

22. A friend text me and let me know that my “Pity-Party” blog was helping her even a week later.

23. She didn’t go to Pity’s party. She tore up the invitation.

24. My mom told me that she spoke with our family pastor when I was growing up, VO Stuart. He still prays for me and he gave my mom an encourgaing word to speak to me.

25. Words of Encouragement.

26. Hope.

27. Judah fell asleep in my arms at 7:50 p.m.

28. Relaxing Friday after a very busy, mentally draining week.

My 28 Thanks:

1. Rick Renner’s Sparkling Gems. I love this daily devotional. God always seems to ordain the perfect one for each day of my life.

2. Online Bible study tools.

3. YouVersion.

4. Mercy.

5. Grace.

6. Understanding people.

7. My friends know me well. Several asked me how I was doing today.

8. Several of the widowed women in our church got together for a lunch in the coffee shop today. While I was decorating the fall festival area, I heard them sharing stories and I heard laughter! Thankful that they have community together and laughter comes from their mouths once again!

9. My friend, Amy, she is such a blessing in my life. I always enjoy our phone conversations.

10. Without much advertisement, I have already had 12 people sign up to help with the Fall Festival. I love hearts who love to serve.

11. Quiet times.

12. Peace that can surpass understanding.

13. My mom did not get attacked by 15 dogs today. Sounds funny, I know. But, in all seriousness, God worked out a particular situation concerning a part of her work and she was protected today.

14. Friend and Superstar Kidmin leader, Sarah, has such a servant’s heart. She is ALWAYS willing to help me out in a pinch and I so appreciate her.

15. My good friend, Stella, is an amazing blessing. She loves the Lord and has such a heart for kids. I am so thankful for her.

16. Gary, Judah, and I had lunch together. We all sat on the floor of the Welcome Center and ate Chick-Fil-A (Judah’s choice again)!

17. Phyllis, a retired elementary teacher and friend, is helping a little girl at our church who has been struggling in Math. Phyllis had impacted this little girl’s life more than she will ever know.

18. Gary and Judah picked up all the hay for the Fall Festival candy drop-off booths.

19. Gary found some AMAZING pumpkins at TG FARMS. They are huge and have amazing stems.

20. The lady at TG FARMS blessed Judah with two little pumpkins, a white one and an orange one. Judah loves those pumpkins.

21. I decorated the Fall Festival Candy Drop-off areas by myself. Holly has taught me a few things. And, I think they turned out pretty fall, festive, and fantastic.

22. I got a lot accomplished today.

23. My neighbor had total knee replacement surgery. Her grown daughter has been staying with her and taking care of her every need. They have a really sweet mother/daughter relationship. So thankful for kids who take care of their parents.

24. I am thankful that I strive for excellence in everything that I do. Yes, I fall short sometimes, but I shoot for it all the time.

25. Late night car ride to Braum’s. The car was filled with funny stories and laughter.

26. Knock Knock jokes…Judah style.

27. You can cast your cares upon the Lord because He cares for you.

28. His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

My 28 Thanks:

1. Judah and I had a great morning routine.

2. Judah didn’t cry when I dropped him off at school. He is getting used to his new schedule.

3. Judah’s teachers really care about him and watch him close.

4. Kind, caring people who love to smile. I love to see people smile.

5. I actually spent time working on future projects today. I love working ahead.

6. Facebook-when used appropriately, it can provide you with all kinds of connections, insight, and free advertisement.

7. Even though it is sometimes an inconvenience, I appreciate road construction. When you learn to drive on dirt, gravel, and paved roads that have pot holes that could swallow your entire car, you appreciate well-cared for roads.

8. I got to spend the late afternoon with Judah. We were able to relax a little before church.

9. My in-laws are having an amazing time on their trip.

10. Dustin can do cool puppet voices. He is going to help me on a big project.

11. You can accomplish so much more with a team.

12. Opportunities are opening up left and right for Rony and Danielle. The future is bright.

13. Janelle helped me with a project today. Super excited to have her on our team.

14. The cafe serves a lite, but great meal on Wednesday nights. It makes dinner plans so much easier.

15. Gary was able to take off the evening shift from the fire station and help me out.

16. Gary makes my life easier. He is so helpful all the time.

17. The final portion of the video shoot went really well. I think we are going to have a great final product.

18. I enjoy working with professionals outside the church walls. It adds more creativity to your work.

19. Judah fell asleep on the way to church, but when we had to wake him up, he wasn’t cranky!

20. The kids loved the opening game. I love their energy.

21. Kids on the Move introduced us to Shine A Light. It may be our favorite song. The kids love it and I love singing that song with them.

22. We had a great night of ministry to more than 150 kids.

23. Sam and Pam Walker are two of the most thoughtful people I know. They really blessed my friend, Ava, tonight.

24. God is working all things out for my friends James and Ava Hatton.

25. Gary has never been able to participate in the Peanut Butter Club at the Fire Station (he is allergic to peanuts). So, the guys had a brilliant idea…Gary could be a member of the Nutella Club. When Gary told me this story and showed me the results, I almost peed my pants laughing hysterically. My husband is going to need a chaperone at the fire station. My honey loves his job.

26. The fire station is truly a second home and a second family.

27. Memories shared with others.

28. God’s promises are forever…they will never change.