Judah woke up at 2:18 a.m. He was very restless and immediately I knew he was about to throw up. Before I could respond, the first round of many to come took place. Judah threw up all over me, himself, and our bed. Right after he puked, he said, “Mommy, this is not a good idea.” Caught off guard by his funny repsonse to the whole situation, I laughed and said, “Your right, Judah, this isn’t a good idea.”

In all the mess of the night, all I could focus on was caring for my sweet baby. As I reflect back on that event, I am reminded about the love and care that Jesus shows to us. Sometimes we make an absolute mess of our lives, but in the middle of all the mess, His focus is on us. His focus is on caring for us. He wants to rescue us, clean us up, and rock us in His safe, secure, and loving arms.

I don’t take any moment for granted any more. Continually, I look for the gem of wisdom or the reflection of love that God is trying to grant to me. I had a brief conversation today with a friend. In that conversation, we both made the comment, “God never waste a hurt.” He doesn’t. I also believe that He doesn’t waste an opportunity. The Word declares that what the devil meant for bad, God turns around and uses for good.

In Romans 8:28, we know that “God causes everything or ALL things to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.” God’s help is an everlasting promise to us. And, He has the ability to manage every detail of our lives. Even though we sometimes face sufferings at this present time (Romans 8:18), God is able to make those sufferings work together for our good and His good.

So, the next time you find yourself staring at a yucky mess and make the statement like Judah did, “This is not a good idea,” remember the promise in Romans 8:28. It is for those who love God. God will manage those messes and work them together for your good and His good. Why? You are called according to His purpose.

My 28 Thanks:

1. I am a mom.

2. God entrusted me with Judah.

3. Even though I finally went to sleep at 5:00 a.m., It wasn’t difficult getting up at 7:00 a.m.

4. Gary helped me clean up the mess when he got home from the fire station.

5. Judah woke up in a great, rested mood. I guess he just had a weird, out of nowhere, stomach bug.

6. I don’t have a long commute to work.

7. I have a peaceful, stress free drive into work.

8. I usually get to talk to my mom every morning while driving to work. I am glad our schedules allow for that.

9. I don’t have to search for a good parking spot when I get to work. When I was in college, finding a parking spot was an endless chore. I always felt like a vulcher cirlcling its prey, waiting for the right opportunity to dive in and defeat my  rivals who were also circling for the “spot.”

10. Judah was thrilled to stay home with his daddy today.

11. The cool, morning air is so refreshing.

12. Pastor Sam taught an awesome chapter out of the book, Relaunch.

13. I enjoyed hearing him teach. He is a great communicator. I am glad he is on my team.

14. We had great, thorough discussion over a topic in the chapter. I love having passionate discussion.

15. I got to present two big projects to my team today in staff meeting.

16. We are meeting deadlines for really BIG projects.

17. I love accomplishment. Accomplishments are better than ice cream. I felt accomplished today.

18. My friend, Debby, brought me Mary Kay makeup because I ran out. She saved my face…wait, she saved others from seeing my face without makeup! Ha Ha…

19. My friend, JaQuisha, is celebrating her birthday today. She is a blessing to everyone who encounters her sweet, selfless spirit. She is a great friend, leader, and every kid LOVES her. I am honored to know her.

20. A friend sent me a sweet text with scripture for encouragement.

21. When I got home from work, my bedroom was clean, sheets were washed, bed was made, and dinner was being prepared. My husband is amazing.

22. Grilled food never disappoints.

23. Gary, Judah, and I had a fun night in the play room. We built a tower of legos that almost went to the ceiling.

24. My friend, Lorry Gail, has been instrumental in writing and story boarding this year’s Christmas Production. I love working with her. We have had a blast writing together and picking out props.  I think we found our puppets tonight.

25. Starla brought me lunch today. She is so sweet, thoughtful, and makes me laugh. She loves friendship and pursues me. She is good for me and tries to keep my life balanced. I am thankful that she is in my life.

26. Lori is a preschool leader rockstar. She and I worked out a new leader’s schedule and I think it is going to improve our staffing issues.

27. When you know who you are and whose you are…you are unstoppable!

28. Progress.

My 28 Thanks:

1. We have several leaders positions open in kids ministry on Sunday mornings. But, every Sunday, God works it all out and people fill the gaps.

2. Faithful leaders.

3. My team has a blast serving kids.

4. We had several guests in service this morning.

5. Gary and Dale did a wonderful job leading praise and worship while Debbie is away.

6. The kids loved the “shipwrecked” message. They laughed a lot.

7. Kids laughter.

8. Small groups were awesome. The last minute craft idea went over really well.

9. All kids ministry services went well. We didn’t have any difficulties.

10. Big church was awesome too. Lives were changed.

11. Pastor Marc’s family life bumper went over well. TV shows like The Cosby’s never disappoint.

12. We had a healthy, at home lunch. It is nice to have some extra time at home in between church services.

13. We spent time this afternoon outside. We are loving the great weather. Spending time together + the back porch= BLISS.

14. I got a lot of necessary work done this afternoon. Feeling ahead of Monday already.

15. Gary and Judah had a water fight with the hose. Judah finds it hilarious to get other people wet…especially when they are fully dressed. Gary is a great sport and it turned into a time of wonderful play.

16. Laid back, easy going people.

17. I love to read. I love to learn.

18. I referred a family who had a child struggling with Math homework to seek help from a woman in our church who is a retired teacher. They did. After one, 15 minute tutoring session, that child is having success in Math. One person can truly turn the light bulb on! You just have to be available.

19. Available, helpful people.

20. Neil Kennedy was our Guest Speaker this Sunday in Big church. His message on The Centurion Principle was superb.

21. God doesn’t work around leaders, He works through them.

22. When one submits to authority, God will cover you with provision, protection, promotion, and empower you to do greater things.

23. The stage redesign looks amazing. I know how much work goes into even small changes. My team worked hard and hard work always pays off.

24. Our worship doesn’t come from what God has done for us, but rather who God is. Just because of who He is…I give Him glory.

25. Another friend of mine began her own 10k reasons blog journey.

26. Madi asked me to help her on an English question.

27. Kids are the church right now.

28. I get to serve with World Changers.

Steven Furtick, Lead Pastor of Elevation Church, is one of the best communicators today. I receive his blog daily through my email and yesterday’s message really spoke to me. So, I wanted to share it here as well.

“A common phrase you often hear from people is, “I don’t do details.” Usually they mean they’re more big picture people. They don’t like to get bogged down in minutiae.

In His own way, God doesn’t do details either. At least when it comes to His commands to people in the Bible. In fact, He can often be painfully vague.

He told Abraham simply, “Go to the land I will show you.”
When He beckoned Peter to walk on the water, He simply said, “Come.”
On His command Moses to free the Israelites from the most powerful nation in the world, He merely commanded him, “Go, I am sending you to Pharaoh.”

God didn’t use any detail. He didn’t lay out a step-by-step plan. He just issued the command and expected obedience.

Sometimes people wanted more detail. Moses wanted to know how it was going to happen. What should he tell the people? But God didn’t fill in much detail here either.
I will be with you.
Tell them, I AM has sent me to you.

That helps.

On the one hand, you would think God was kind of winging it. On the surface, it would seem that His plan was just to deal with the details as they came about. And that’s not very reassuring. Not when you’re being asked to step out on faith.

On the other hand, when you read on in the stories, God had every detail covered. Abraham’s journey. The plagues. The Red Sea. Even Peter’s ability to walk on water. And that’s very reassuring.

God is extremely meticulous. He is all about the details. Far more than you’ll ever be. He has everything already figured out. Every pitfall and possibility accounted for. Every detour arranged to get you to your final destination.

So God definitely does the details in terms of His plan and working it out.
But God doesn’t do the details in terms of what He communicates to you.

That’s because He knows there are some details you’re simply not ready for.
And ultimately it’s because He’s more interested in your full obedience than your full understanding.

Don’t worry. God has every detail in your life covered.
He just doesn’t need you to know them first to follow Him faithfully.”

  My 28 Thanks:

1. Quiet Mornings.

2. Even though He doesn’t always share them with me, God has every detail of my life covered.

3. I strive to be obedient.

4. I love obedience.

5. Details. I love them.

6. Gary and I had a great morning taking care of our house.

7. I love to clean. I may not be much of a cook, but I love to make things clean and tidy.

8. Gary likes things clean too.

9. We had an awesome, peaceful walk around the neighborhood.

10. We got to visit with some of our sweet neighbors.

11. Judah had a blast playing with his cousins.

12. He was happy to see us.

13. Laci and Eric took great care of our little boy. I have so many amazing family members. I am truly blessed.

14. All the laundry is done. Well, for now.

15. The weather was fantastic. We enjoyed being outside most of the day!

16. We got Chinese food for dinner. The owners of China Delight are precious and they make amazing Chinese Food.

17. We got a new plant at Lowe’s. And, all plants were 25% off. Discounts are always a welcomed surprise.

18. My hands were in the dirt a lot today. I love doing yard work. I find it to be cathartic.

19. Our neighborhood is safe and Judah can play on our quiet street.

20. Gary is reading a book and he loves it. I enjoy sharing the same reading material with Gary. Then, we have even more to discuss.

21. Tomorrow, I am telling kids how to be world changers. I have the coolest job.

22. Energy.

23. Sonic ice. Whoever created the ice machine that turns frozen water into tiny pellets is my friend.

24. Late night car rides and funny conversations.

25. Family prayer time.

26. Great works and moves of God are happening around the US and the World. It is an honor to be a part.

27. Gary and I had two days of family time and relaxation. These times are rare for us because of our interesting work schedules, so when they happen…we treasure them!

28. God is good.

My 28 Thanks:

1. Judah loves to spend time sitting on my lap in the mornings.

2. Gary, Judah, and I relaxed all morning.

3. We got a lot of house keeping items completed.

4. I approached a situation differently today and it was a better approach. Growth is the will of God. 

5. Safety while traveling. 

6. Hospitality.

7. I finally used the bath “experience” ball (ha ha ha) that Danielle bought for me. I have never taken a bath in pink and purple water. I am thankful for thoughtful friendships.

8. Great conversations with my funny mom. She makes me laugh. 

I am thankful for:

9. Consistency. When you need to be consistent. 

AND~I am thankful for:

10. Change. When you need to change. 

11. The weather was cool enough that I got to explore another part of my closet. I love Fall. 

12. Eric and Laci invited Judah to spend the night. 

13. Judah was thrilled to spend the night with his mends, (friends) Ethan and Evan. They are like triplets. 

14. Gary and I laughed all day together. We found “funny” in so many ways. 

15. I received a really sweet, surprising facebook message from a friend. Words of encouragement fuel you more than coffee, energy drinks, and sugar highs. 

16. Gary and I took a carriage ride around the downtown area of Guthrie, Ok. It was our first carriage ride, but definitely not our last. 

17. It was a most beautiful evening.

18. Old Architecture. Every person has a story, so does every building. I love honoring the Old and welcoming the New. 

19. Creative and Artisitc displays of talent.

20. Our carriage driver, Steve, was sweet and funny. 

21. We walked into our bed and breakfast and found amazing home-made cinnamon rolls (huge) and fresh baked bread and jam. 

22. Gary and I enjoyed a nice, quiet dinner with each other.

23. The sunset was absolutely amazing.

24. The Oklahoma Sky never disappoints. 

25. Gary and I got to watch a movie together.  And, it was a non-Judah kind of movie:) 

26. Date Nights~We have to do that more often! 

27. Gary was able to help out some friends of ours at the last minute. We love Eddie and Tracy Loomis. This kind, caring couple has always been encouraging and supporting of Gary and me. 

28. Fridays. I wish they came around more than one time a week! 

One of the enemy’s favorite weapons: SELF-PITY!

Since I started this 10,000 Reasons journey, people have asked me different questions like, How do you stay consistent? What will you do when this journey is over? Have you noticed an increased attack from the Devil? Has the enemy attacked your emotions like crazy? I can answer each of those questions with general responses, but I am going to “vent” on the last question for a moment.

My purpose for taking this journey 129 days ago was to get my emotions in check. I don’t want to be a person who is led by emotions or feelings. As a human and furthermore a woman, I have emotions and feelings. At some times, they are heightened. God gave me these emotions and feelings. But, He doesn’t want them to control my life. I also realize they can be misleading and mis-managed. So, when my life was flooded with emotions of doubt, despair, discouragement, anger, fear, hate, bitterness, loss, grief, and on and on and on, I had to make an immediate decision to not allow the devil to use those feelings and emotions as  weapons against me. So, Selah~My 10,000 reasons journey, A journey of thankfulness~ was going to be the BEST weapon of choice to defeat the enemy.

Because of this journey, I have made a decision to be VERY PRESENT in every moment of every day. With every moment, I am looking for a way to Bless the Lord. So far, I have never had a difficult time in finding ways to Bless Him. With God in your life, every moment~even the tough, yucky, and disappointing ones~you can find God in the mix and a way that He is working on your behalf. Being very aware of every conversation, every interaction, and every moment has its down-side too. There are times when I haven’t looked for the positive in the situation, but rather allowed my weapon of thanks to be weaker than the enemies weapon.

Self-Pity is one of the devil’s favorite weapons to use. And this week, I found myself at times waving the white flag of surrender to it. Self-Pity does not play favorites. Everyone is invited to its party. While there, you can hang out with some of the most popular guests there: “No One Cares About Me, I Can Never Do Enough, No One Understands, I Am Just Not Good Enough, Everyone Else is Better, God has Forsaken Me, People Just Don’t Understand Me, Why Should I Even Care.” And, the invite list goes on and on and on.

If you go to this Pity-Party, your feelings and emotions will mis-lead you and mis-manage you (think about it…self-pity is one of the MOST EXAGGERATED emotions)! Your perceptions will be seen through a jaded lens and you WILL NOT fight with the right weapons, instead, you will retreat, draw back, isolate, hide, and eventually become INEFFECTIVE for yourself, your family, and most importantly for the purpose that God has for you.

Urban Dictionary says, “Self-Pity is easily the most destructive of the non-pharmaceuitucal narcotics; it is addictive, gives momentary pleasure and separates the victim from reality.”

Self-Pity is a negative emotion and one that always makes you a VICTIM and not a VICTOR. It is not a friend, but rather a foe, who never allows you to deal with the adverse situation. If you party with pity, you will never defeat the enemy. You will always be subject to his control.

So, the next time you have an invitation to Pity’s party, tear it up and throw it away. DO NOT go there. Besides, the company is horrible, the atmosphere is icky, the music depresses, the food is stale and gross, and the party favors are not fun to play with.

My 28 Thanks:

1. Self-Pity didn’t win today.

2. I can control my thought life.

3. I say “No” to Pity’s Party.

4. I planned out the rest of the KidMotion sermon series for the year! Wowzeers~I have never been so busy and I have never been so far ahead. God is good.

5. Judah asked me to play “Jesus is Alive Right Now” so he could sing to it. He sang that song and did the motions! My preschool team is AMAZING. Preschoolers are the church right now too! Judah loves Jesus.

6. Miss Olivia, Pastor Marc and Talena’s daughter, hung out with me today in the KidMotion room. She is the sweetest little girl. She has a sensitive spirit to the Lord.

7. The people at Wacky World are awesome to work with. Bruce gave me an A+++++ on my homework assignment. I can’t believe I am going to get to work with this great group of creative genius.

8. People who can think outside the box.

9. Coordinating multiple busy schedules is frustrating. But, the Lord always provides insight and works it out. I think my calendar is set.

10. A meeting that usually takes two hours, only took one hour.

11. Open conversation that leads to solutions.

12. Gary built me the coolest boat out of a pallet board. I am talking about Paul’s shipwreck on Sunday and if you are going to have a cool shipwreck, you have to have a cool boat!

13. I found a craft that I had purchased in the summer, but didn’t use. The craft works perfectly for Sunday’s small groups!

14. Everything is ready to go for Sunday!

15. My car got a much needed check-up. This check-up included: new brakes, oil change, new roters, new brake pads, tires balanced, etc…

16. My family will be safe when traveling in my car and we had the money in savings to pay for that hefty expense.

17. I needed one more main ingredient for dinner, so Gary ran to the store. We have an awesome grocery store right down the street. I love convenient City life.

18. GOALS! Each year, we have to make both professional and personal goals to work towards accomplishment in the coming year. In January, I put on my personal goal sheet, “I want to spend more time in the kitchen cooking for my family.”

19. I spent time in the kitchen once again. I have a most beautiful kitchen.

20. I made a Chicken Tortilla Soup without a recipe and it was awesome. I also experimented with some new spices and they were great.

21. Judah ate some of the soup. I can’t believe he ate soup…

22. Family walk around the neighborhood.

23. Judah loves numbers. I hate numbers, so I am so glad that my son loves them. Everywhere we go, he calls out the numbers that he sees.

24. While walking the neighborhood, we stopped at EVERY mailbox so Judah could figure out the house number. It was super cute.

25. Judah and I had fun playing in the rice pool again. Play time is always a time to build relationship and make eternal investments.

26. Gary gave Judah his bath tonight.

27. I changed my thinking tonight.

28. The Lord knows my heart and my intent.

My 28 Thanks:

1. It was a beautiful, stress free morning.

2. Judah was so excited to wear his new school t-shirt. I love the way he pronounces his school’s name.

3. Judah was so excited that he got to ride to school with mom-mom and his cousins. He even told me that he didn’t want me to pick him up, but rather

4. My mother-in-law took Judah to school for me, so I didn’t have to go into work super late.

5. When I pulled away from my in-laws home, Judah came running after me with open arms. I stopped the car, got out, and was greeted by one BIG hug.

6. Ethan and Evan, my nephews, had to hug me too. I love sweet, loving boys.

7. I was able to spend an entire hour brainstorming future sermon series for KidMotion.

8. I had lunch with my friend, Debby. We always have fun, interesting coversations. She makes me laugh.

9. Debby is a beautiful example of God’s handiwork. Her story makes my heart smile.

10. When I picked Judah up from school, his teachers told me that he is a kind, well-mannered boy. It is such an honor to hear good things about your child from people outside of your home.

11. I met Kristy Starling today in person. I found out she lives in my neighborhood. She is as delightful in person as she is on Twitter. I love the music her band, Warr Acres, produces for the Lord. I listen to them often on Spotify.

12. Worship Music.

13. New friendships.

14. The A/C broke in our baby room. And, it was warm. The leaders could have moved to another room, but they were concerned about upsetting the nine little ones. So, they stayed and sweat it out. I have the best, most caring nursery leaders in the world.

15. My entire team was gone from the church at 9:00 p.m. They love the new dismissal schedule.

16. My 6th grade girls are so helpful. They stepped in and help out in our exploding 3s class. They were a huge help.

17. Kids Ministry has an awesome, kind security team who makes us feel safe and cared for while ministering at church.

18. Gary resisted most of the HORRIBLE food items at the fair except for his beloved cinnamon roll. And, a sweet family bought him the cinnamon roll. Then, when they walked away they told Gary that they appreciate what he does to serve the public.

19. Firemen are well-respected and treated kindly. The public probably treats firemen the best all civil servants. It is unfortunate, but I am glad my husband is a fireman and not a police officer.

20. Gary and I are teaching Judah to respect all authority. Every time we see a police officer, we tell Judah how thankful we are for police men and that they are our friend and protect us. We also encourage Judah to say hello. I am glad that we are training our child to respect people and positions of authority.

21. Because Judah had a 3 hour nap, he was in a great mood on our way home from church.

22. When driving at night, Judah and I play a fun car game. We take turns calling out the colors of the street signs that we see lit up. He loves seeing orange lights!

23. For a late night dinner, I had home made Ezekiel bread and Trader Joes Jam. Danielle blessed me with several Trader Joes items and it is truly delicious!

24. My home alarm system is top notch!

25. My sis-in-law got a great deal on an almost brand-new SUV. It was an unexpected surprise blessing. She is excited!

26. Gary enjoyed working at the fair for 2 shifts. He made around 20 calls today. He was busy.

27. Judah, me, and Disney Jr.=late night snuggle time.

28. When I lay my head down to sleep at night, He is with me. I can sleep in sweet peace.

My 28 Thanks:

1. I began my day with a discussion on Dr. Mark Rutland’s book, ReLaunch.

2. Dr. Mark Rutland’s wisdom.

3. Everyone has vision inside them.

4. Several of us went to a memorial service for a precious woman of God. She lived her life sold out to the Lord and now she is dancing on streets of gold.

5. Her service was sweet and honoring. There was more than enough great things to say about her. I want to live my life in such a way!

6. Because of Jesus, we don’t have to be afraid of death.

7. Paul’s words…To Live is Christ, but to die is Gain.

8. Pastor Travis gave me a tour of their new annex area. Super excited for them.

9. Surprise lunch with some of my teammates.

10. Pastor Ted paid for our lunch.

11. Service at chik-fil-a can’t be beat. They are a company who all understand the vision of their leader and it shows in their attitude, actions, and service.

12. My brother started his adventure in the Colorado wilderness. We always thought he would be a true Jeremiah Johnson. Excited for him to have this opportunity.

13. My sis-in-law, Madison, reported that Gatlin is loving his new daycare. I know this is a huge relief for a mom. Madison is attending nursing school full-time. I am proud of her.

14. My sister-in-law and brother-in-law offered to keep Judah this weekend, so Gary and I can have a weekend getaway.

15. My husband is so sweet. He always listens and always cares.

16. When I got home from work, Gary had made baked chicken, rice, and veggies. He also made banana, chocolate chip bread.

17. Everything tasted amazing and I didn’t have to cook.

18. Instead of cooking, I sat in a swimming pool filled with rice and played with my little love.

19. Judah loves for me to play with him.

20. Judah told me, “Mommy, I am not afraid of the mumber anymore!” Mumber=thunder!

21. Sunsets are beautiful…even in Oklahoma. We have the prettiest sky!

22. Judah loves Bible Stories.

23. Bible Stories are even better when re-told from a 3 year olds perspective.

24. The way Judah pronounces Shadrach, Meschach, and Abednego, makes me smile big.

25. There was lots of laughter in our home tonight.

26. My home is peaceful.

27. Gary prays over his family every night.

28. Rest does a body good.

My 28 Thanks:

1. I didn’t feel good at all when I first woke up this morning. But, I was determined to get out of bed and get ready…something my mom swears by! The more I moved around, the better I felt. By the time I left for work, I was feeling much better.

2. I am glad that I am not always moved by how I feel.

3. Judah and I enjoyed a sweet conversation this morning while getting ready for our day. I put him up on the bathroom counter so I could fix his hair. While brushing his hair he said, “Mommy, are you going to come back for me today?” I looked into those beautiful, blue eyes and assured him that I would always come back for him. That little boy has my heart.

4. Judah walked into his class without crying.

5. Judah’s teachers always greet us with the sweetest smile and the warmest of voices. They have the most gentle spirit. You can feel it. I want to go into their classroom too.

6. Christian Education.

7. When I left the school, I saw Judah playing with a new little friend.

8. My mother-in-law picked up Judah for me today, so I didn’t have to leave work early.

9. Judah was able to play with his cousins for a while after school.

10. It only takes me 180 seconds to get to Judah’s school from our home.

11. I worked in overdrive this morning and got two events in progress. All you have to do is START! I am feeling accomplished tonight.

12. Pastor Marcia always helps me out and gives me advice.

13. Today, I was able to step in and help out Pastor Marcia.

14. I got to help a family today. They lost their mom on Saturday and I was able to be the shoulder to lean on as they made funeral arrangements.

15. Dustin taught me a super simple way to scan and email documents today. I love learning new and easy tricks of the trade.

16. The new kids ministry re-design sketches are AMAZING. I can’t wait for my church family to see what the future is going to look like.

17. My voice is slowly returning to normal.

18. The leftovers were as good tonight as they were fresh yesterday. And, I hate leftovers.

19. I actually enjoyed cooking yesterday.

20. My brother-in-law is in route back to the USA for two weeks R and R. I am so thankful for his service and so excited for him to see his family tomorrow.

21. Our church is blessed with awesome volunteers who want to build the Kingdom of God with us.

22. Pastor Ted purchased us all an Easy Button. I am glad that he was in a light-hearted, good mood today…especially since my fantasy team slaughtered his fantasy team…but, who is keeping score, right? I only checked the app 500,000 times! Ha Ha Ha

23. Gary was super excited that he didn’t get loaned to another fire station today. He gets to stay put at station 8.

24. Today, Pastor Marc had another door open for ministry to a Moore School football team. Favor isn’t Fair, but it is falling on Pastor Marc!

25. My mom still calls to check on me and see how I am doing.

26. Turnaround Leadership.

27. Judah fell asleep in my arms tonight.

28. Wisdom.

Even though the weather has been absolutely dreamy this weekend, I have felt under it. Sore throat, itchy eyes, achy body, and ear aches, have put a damper on the usual energy I have for my days. But, regardless of how I feel, I choose to praise Him. He deserves to be praised just because of who He is…not for what He has done. I will praise Him through every circumstance and rejoice in my healing!

My 28 thanks:

1. I think that if I drink enough water, I will flush out all the bad germs in my body! I love water. I crave water.

2. Cough drops.

3. I had the strength to teach today in KidMotion.

4. My voice held up for the entire morning.

5. The kids continue to love Shine A Light. They rock that song! I love to watch kids worship Jesus.

6. Miss Deborah conquered a personal “stage” fear today and did the Big Idea segment.

7. A mom text me after service and said that her daughter was retelling the entire Bible story today from KidMotion. I love hearing that kids learned and loved kids church.

8. One of my leaders told me that an encouragement card I sent to her last week came at the most needed of times.

9. All of the Kidz Ministry service went well.

10. My KidMotion leaders loved small group time this morning. I love our large group/small group model. It is the way to go.

11. I love the opportunity to make one-on-one connections with our kids. Small groups give us that opportunity.

12. I love spending time with my 6th grade small group. The kids were so funny today about the shoe game I wanted them to play. Middle Schoolers are WEIRD! Ha Ha Ha

13. I made homemade chicken spaghetti.

14. I didn’t need a recipe. I used my memory, Baby!

15. Gary and Judah loved my chicken spaghetti.

16. We will have lots of yummy leftovers.

17. Mrs. Pam wanted to use Judah’s fingerprints for one of her art projects. It was so sweet of Pam to want to use Judah for her project.

18. I talked to a couple today who is interested in serving in Kidz Ministry.

19. Gary and Judah have an amazing, fun relationship. They play so well together. Gary gives Judah 100% all the time.

20. Judah was in a super funny mood today. He laughed and made us laugh all afternoon. We are thankful for laughter.

21. Gary took Judah to the store and gave me an opportunity to catch up on work in quiet.

22. Some of my family had a wonderful, relaxing time at Broken Bow this weekend. I am from a most beautiful part of the State.

23. It appears that I remain undefeated in fantasy football. Tomorrow, I will pour on the smack talk!

24. Pastor taught on Psalm 91 tonight. It has always been one of my most favorite passages.

25. I laughed a lot in church tonight. Pastor told some funny stories. It is even more fun when he is the “butt” of the jokes.

26. I don’t have to be insecure.

27. No evil shall befall me or my family.

28. No plague shall come near my dwelling.

My 28 Thanks:

1. Judah and I spent a wonderful, quiet morning together.

2. Holly came over and transformed my house into the fall season.

3. Fall decorating is so fun.

4. I love having people in my life who can see potential in a mess.

5. My fall decorations survived a year-long life stuffed in plastic tubs.

6. Judah and I joined Gary’s family for Disney on Ice. It was my first trip to the fair since I was a little girl.

7. I stayed calm in the sea of people. This is huge for me people.

8. We found free parking.

9. Laura drove. I enjoy being chauffeured.

10. We had great center section seats.

11. Gary worked the fair on the OCFD bike team. He got to come and watch some of the show with us. It was a nice surprise.

12. The kids had a blast. I think they enjoyed the spinning light toys more than the show. But, the adults enjoyed the show. I still love Beauty and the Beast the most!

13. My husband is so sweet and handsome. I love watching him serve others in his job.

14. Gary loves to help people.

15. Zach got settled into school and got a great bed in his apartment with 4 other roommates.

16. Pastor Ted and Tami are doing well after dropping Zach off for school.

17. Excited that several of the young people I serve with have great future ministry opportunities.

18. When we came back home from the fair, Judah said, “Wow, my house looks beautiful!” It was so sweet and cute. Judah loves the fall too.

19. I love hearing about personal growth and spiritual growth in the lives of other people. Growth is the will of God.

20. God created interesting people.

21. I never smoked a cigarette in my life. I am so thankful that I do not have an addiction.

22. The weather was absolutely beautiful.

23. Judah and I chose to go home after Disney on Ice. We drove separate, so we didn’t have to stay at the fair with the rest of the State of Oklahoma!

24. Gary was able to walk us out to our car. He always makes me feel safe.

25. Jesus changed the life of woman at the well.

26. Your story is powerful-you should to tell it.

27. Judah loves to cuddle and snuggle. He is my buddy.

28. Rest.