Davis Family Updates

Graduations

2011-05-22T10:20:00.000-04:00

It took nearly 3 years for Ken and over 2 years for Judy, but success has been attained! Ken graduated with his Master's degree from Wesley Seminary at IWU and Judy graduated with her Bachelor's degree from John Wesley College, now Laurel University! It was a difficult journey but VERY rewarding! We are so grateful to our children for putting up with us as we struggled through the mix of being students, parents, spouses, ministers and employees. We can now return to our fun-loving selves!!

We enjoyed a celebration party with several friends and family! Thank you to everyone who has offered support and encouragement! We truly could not have accomplished this alone!

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Hanging Up

2010-07-07T14:37:00.000-04:00

A couple days ago Nathan and I were eating dinner at home. I closed my eyes and said a hurried prayer of blessing over our dinner. Instead of saying the appropriate, "In Jesus' name, Amen" I said "Ok, I'll talk to you later! Bye!" We broke out laughing! I had just hung up on God! Later on when the scene was replayed and thought over again, Nathan told me he agreed with what I had done. I asked him for clarification. He gave it.

When we are finished with a conversation with someone we tend to tell them we will talk again later. This implies that we are interested in the relationship we have with this person. So much so that we are planning and even looking forward to talking with them again. Isn't that the way we ought to be with our conversations with God? Shouldn't we be looking forward to talking with Him again and investing more in our relationship?

Have you ever had a list of phone calls to make? Sometimes you start at the top of the list and work your way down. Other times you may pick the ones you know will be quick and make those first. Saving the longer conversations for last. Where does your conversation with God fall in your list? Is it something you do first so it's over and done with? Or do you save it for last so you can devote more time to it? Wherever His conversation is make sure it is a priority in your life. Just like a relationship with a friend can deteriorate if we do not maintain communication, so is our relationship with Him. Communication is very important to the strength of the relationship!

Ok..I'll talk to you later! Bye!

Cressalyn's Senior Prom

2010-04-17T23:59:00.000-04:00

Since we decided to homeschool our kids years ago we knew that they would most likely not have a prom to go to. Here in the Roanoke area there is a homeschool group who holds a ball each spring. Cressalyn was able to attend with a couple friends from church. None of the girls had guys to go with so they went together!

Can someone tell me just when my baby grew into a gorgeous young woman?

Christmas 2009

2010-01-05T00:16:00.008-05:00

Well the holidays have once again come and swiftly gone! It really felt like Christmas snuck up on us! It comes the same time every year and yet this year it seemed to skip ahead a few weeks!

We haven't had the usual time we like to have in order to create and send Christmas cards this year. So we will let the post update you on our year!

Ken is continuing to work on his master's degree online through Indiana Wesleyan. We are pleased with his progress and anticipate his completion in 2010! Judy began work to finish her bachelor's degree online through John Wesley College this year. A 2012 completion target is set! With the boys being in college we are finding it very interesting to fill out FAFSA and other forms four times! This coming school year we will do it FIVE times as Cressalyn enters college as well!

Kenny (21) is in his second year at Bethany. Things are going very well in his life! At the end of the Spring semester he met a young lady who had graduated from school the year before. Melissa works with World Hope and is currently raising her support to return to her assignment as a humanitarian aid worker and English teacher in a few months. As their relationship has grown it became clear to both of them that their futures were to be joined. Kenny proposed to Melissa on December 23 in St. Augustine, Florida. Happily, she said yes! We are enjoying getting to know this precious addition to our family! She is wonderful and we are pleased that God has brought our son such a match!

Nathan (19) is in his second year at Oklahoma Wesleyan University. He was able to go to Hong Kong for one month this summer and teach English. He is continuing to work toward his degree in Global Studies and hopes to return to China this coming year. A highlight of his Spring semester was joining the croquet team in Philadelphia for the National Collegiate Croquet Championship. He placed 14th out of the 72 players!

Cressalyn (17) is working to finish her high school requirements. She has applied to three schools and hopes to have a decision made by February! Each school holds a certain draw for her so it's not an easy choice! She is still working for a local restaurant and enjoys being with children in the nursery at church.

2009 has been a difficult year financially for us but we have been sustained and blessed by God's provision! Just in October we were blessed by the gift of a "new" vehicle by our church family! If you have been following the Davis vehicle saga over the years you will understand how huge this is for us!

We are excited about what God has in store for us in 2010!

The Davis Family Gets A New Ride!

2009-10-25T12:43:00.002-04:00

Our church was given a large "kerplunk" of money that was designated to go to benevolence. The pastors and LBA decided to take that kerplunk and bless 8 people/families over 4 weeks...2 per Sunday, one per service. The catch was that the 8 had to be nominated by others in the congregation, they had to be active in the church and completely up on their tithing.

This morning at the end of first service Pastor John called to the platform Ken & Judy Davis. That's us. Whoa! He then presented us with the keys to a new car!!!! Not brand new but new to us and one that is actually from THIS decade!!!

We are so humbled and totally floored by this generous gifting! We are praising God for His continuing to supply our needs as we are struggling in this economy! His economy knows NO recession!

Thank you to our family at Parkway for being a vessel of God's blessings!

The Truck Driver Story

2009-10-10T23:43:00.002-04:00

I work at Walmart. Often I answer the phones. Sometimes people call in for directions to get to our store. Tonight was no exception.

A truck driver called from I81 and thought he might have gone too far and passed the exit to our store. I asked where he was and he was definitely too far south. I asked if he had a delivery for our store and he said we wasn't delivering to us but needed to go shopping. I told him there was another Walmart at the next exit and gave him directions.

When he told me he needed to get a reflective vest for the location he was delivering to, a bell when off in my head! Ken is a security guard for a Kroger dry storage facility where drivers are required to where reflective vests! Oh! "Are you going to the Kroger facility?" I asked. The driver looked at his paperwork and indeed said that's where he was headed. I asked him if he would do me a HUGE favor and he gladly agreed. I asked that when he got to the facility and checked in at the guard shack would he please tell the guy there that his wife says hello! He agreed and we laughed and then hung up.

I was so thrilled about this chain of contacts that would connect me to my beloved tonight! How cool is this!!! Later in the evening I went to the break room and got my phone out to see if Ken had messaged me about getting MY message. Nothing. Rats.

Then I realized. This is Saturday. KEN IS OFF!

Bob is working tonight. BOB DOESN'T HAVE A WIFE!!!!

What Would You Do With $50?

2009-09-06T00:19:00.003-04:00

A gentleman came into Walmart this week looking for a birthday card. I directed him to the card section. He told me he was getting a card for his wife of 68 years who is bedridden. She will be 90! He also said he was going to put a $50 bill in the card.

He was a sweet man with concern in his voice and face for his bride. I couldn't help but wonder what a 90 year old woman who is confined to her bed would be doing with $50 in cash. At first this scenario struck me as a bit funny but the more I thought about it, the more I wondered about her life, her situation, her desires, and what she would really want to do.

At 40 I would probably get scrapbooking supplies. Maybe yarn for a baby blanket. Or new sneakers. At 90, I don't know. Audio books? A new sweater? Maybe give it to a grandchild?

What would you do?

Randomness

2009-07-05T01:49:00.009-04:00

Life is busy. Here are a few snapshots with what's been happening.

Ken & I held a VBS in West Virginia.

My new friend, Kathy. She was there every night and did the motions to the songs!

The kids had a great time playing, singing, and learning how to walk with Jesus.

Ken & Robbie were targets.

We took advantage of our proximity to Western PA and were able to meet with Stevan and Jess, Ella & Ezra! We got to meet our new addition before my parents! Yay!

Baby Ezra!

Big sister, Ella, was pretty much done with being around long distance family. She warmed up to Uncle Ken after a few minutes, but was really not into the whole experience. That's perfectly fine, we do remember those days! We were successful in stealing hugs from her since she wouldn't give them. Stevan and Jess have a beautiful family!!

We also were able to do some more research for our geneology. We located Ken's great-grandfather's grave. We have leads on others we are following!

Sasha seems to be chilling a whole lot more these days. We see signs of her aging...and then not so much!

This could be by far my favorite picture of Carmel! Unbelievable!

Melissa, Kenny's friend has visited us for several days. She has become OUR friend as well!

Cressalyn has loved having another girl...sister-like...to hang with!

Nathan has left us for a month. He flew to Denver July 4th to begin his trip to Asia. We are excited to see how God will use this time!

I'm Officially...40.

2009-06-17T22:05:00.003-04:00

Today is my 40th birthday.

This is the cake that my hubby had waiting for me when I returned from choir. We enjoyed chocolate cake and milk. YUMMMYYYYY!!!!

Then we all left the kitchen.

Then Carmel helped herself to some cake, too.

When she was caught...she put herself right into time out!

It's Been a While...

2009-06-13T01:33:00.004-04:00

Sorry it's been a while since I last updated. I wanted to share the video that I put together for my Grandmother's funeral. Hope you like it.

Heavenly Easter!

2009-04-12T23:31:00.004-04:00

Early this morning, while most of us were sleeping, Ella Grace Story, my mother's mother, awoke in Glory to celebrate Resurrection Day with her Lord! While we will begin adjusting to life without her here we cheer for her arrival at her final destination! Praise the Lord!

Just over 5 weeks ago I saw her for the last time. She looked tired. She had lived 96 years nearly all of which was in service to her King!

The members of this large and growing family who are able will converge on the High Point, NC area. We will laugh, cry, sing, cry, pray, and laugh some more as a family. We have an incredible legacy left for us. Not just of parents who loved their children and each other, but more importantly children of God who poured their love for Christ into their children. My fervent prayer is that we will carry on the heritage to the future generations.

Lord, help us to be a blessing...

Sandbox and Fetch

2009-04-09T00:30:00.005-04:00

We have the pleasure of being in charge of the daily care of two very precious children. Today was pretty enough that we could venture into the sandbox for the first time! We had a very good time and look forward to getting more toys to play with!

Carmel really enjoys the game of fetch. She still hasn't gotten the concept that if she returns the ball, we will throw it again. It appears to be more fun to be chased!

Another Visit with Grandma

2009-03-06T21:55:00.003-05:00

Today we had another chance to visit with Grandma Story. One of her favorite meals is tacos so we brought in tacos to dine with her! I think I now know where Nathan gets his love for tacos!

My mom brought the round letter that passes among her siblings and read it to Grandma. Then Grandma dictated her addition and I was honored to write down her words.

We went into the family room and did some singing as well.

Before we left Cressalyn served her Great Grandma by rubbing her legs and feet! It was a precious visit as always!

Jesus Loves Him

2009-01-19T20:36:00.002-05:00

Today I was faced with a potentially explosive situation while at work. We had run out of Dr. Pepper and Ken had left the store to get more from another restaurant across town. While he was gone a customer came through the drive-through and ordered a Dr. Pepper. He was informed that we were out and was offered other choices. He said he would sit right there...at the drive-through window...until we could fill his drink request.

Ken had left me in charge of the shift and the other assistant manager brought this situation to my attention. I went to the window and apologized for the inconvenience and asked him to pull his car into a parking spot. We would bring his order out to him as soon as our general manager returned. He refused to move. He just sat there...looking at me. Again I asked him to pull his vehicle forward to a parking spot. He hesitated and then began slowly pulling forward. He told me to be careful because I was getting angry. I calmly assured him that I was not angry. He said, "Yes you are" and pulled into a parking spot.

I returned to the front counter to wait on another customer. As I was filling his order this drive-through customer came inside. I asked him how I could help. He said instead of the Dr. Pepper he would just have a large milk. I informed him that we have only one size carton but I would happy to give him 2. I placed them on the counter in front of him and he realized it was 2% milk. He said he wanted whole milk. I told him that was all we had to offer. He responded "you don't have whole milk AND you don't have Dr. Pepper??" Again I apologized for the inconvenience.

He gathered his food and milk...after opening his sandwich to check for the onions he had ordered...and looked me in the eye...and said, "Thank you." Then he left.

The rest of the employees said they would have been yelling at him long before he even came inside if they had handled the situation. A customer at the counter was stunned at how grumpy this man was. It took a few moments for my nerves to settle and my heart to stop racing. I had full intentions of refusing to serve him any more and refund his money to him if he continued to behave as he was. In fact, had he refused to move his vehicle I was prepared to call for police assistance.

But as the rest of my shift and then the day wore on my thoughts returned to this man over and over. His face continues to be in my mind. I want to ask him who hurt him? What made him so distrusting of others that he feels the need to bully his way through a simple drink order? In just a short time after he left I felt as though Jesus said to me, "I love him."

After all was said and done, I had remained calm and had treated him with dignity and respect. It must have done something to his armor because he thanked me. How differently this could have gone had I let my reactions be based on his requests.

There have been many times...no many MANY times...in my life that I have reacted with a huff, rolling my eyes, sharp movements, and stinging tone of voice. I know I can react that way. But with the divine assistance of Numa...the Holy Spirit...I was able to refrain from adding negativity to negativity. How many missed opportunities have I had? There's no way to know. But I am so hopeful for the future opportunities that WILL come in my life! I am confident that with Numa's help I will be able to respond appropriately again!

Thank you, Jesus! For sending Numa! I pray for this man that You will make Yourself known to him! He needs Your peace! He needs to know that You love him!

Movie Review "Marley & Me"

2009-01-05T22:56:00.003-05:00

Nearly a year ago my mother told me about a new book, "Marley & Me." I checked it out of the library and began reading it to Cressalyn and Ken on our vacation. I didn't get through the entire book before it had to be returned. It was totally funny to us to read the stories of Marley and his antics since we have Carmel and deal with HER antics! The book itself was pretty graphic in areas regarding the author's love life with his wife. But in reading it out loud I was able to do quick editing to convey a "cleaner" story to my daughter.

This Christmas the movie about the book was released. We knew that it would be hysterical to see this dog in action! Tonight Cressalyn and I went and saw the movie. I have always struggled with movies and shows that are "based on" books and such. The movies aren't word for word like the books. They alter details to flow better, I guess, but I can't stand it. For instance, when I read the Little House books AFTER seeing the TV shows lost interest because they weren't like the show. After reading, over and over, the Love Comes Softly series, by Jeanette Oke, I can't what a full movie of the books. This movie starts off very much in that way for me. But I determined to get through it without being critical.

I am so glad I was able to set aside the book from my head and just enjoy the movie! What a great movie! I have a very special place in my heart for dogs and Marley has earned his own spot! The movie portrays the frustrations of parents who have to give up so much of their own desires for the good of their family. I was pleased with the author's character stating that you don't quit it, you fix it in regards to struggles in marriage. Along with all the fun things about Marley, there are some deep lessons to be learned about marriage and family and commitment.

I don't think I have ever cried like I did tonight at the end of a movie. Yes, I have teared up, and even have had one slip down my cheek. But this movie tugged...no yanked at my heart strings so strongly!!!! I loved this one!

A Visit with Grandma

2009-01-04T21:11:00.003-05:00

Cressalyn and I had a wonderful visit with Grandma Saturday! We had taken Nathan to the airport to return to Tulsa. We took breakfast from McDonald's to her, but she had forgotten we were coming and was already eating when we arrived. They allowed us to go to the activity room by ourselves.

We enjoyed chatting with Grandma and hearing about her decision from her. She explained why she no longer wants transfusions with such conviction and determination...and compassion for others who could use the blood she would be given. What a woman! Another lady wandered in to the room carrying a pillow she wanted us to see. She was very interested in what we were doing and talking about..but Grandma didn't say anything other than introducing us. So I was able to then redirect Grandma's attention and carry on our conversation about her grandchildren. The lady stood there for a moment and then decided to move on. Grandma told us this lady was...and she made the circling motion with her finger to her head...crazy. I thought that was so funny! I have NEVER seen Grandma do that!

Her color was very good today. Her hair has been trimmed since the last time I saw her...but then that was Easter! The longer we sat and talked the more pain she got in from sitting.

At one point I asked her "What's next?" meaning what does she plan to do after breakfast. Her response was..."Waiting. Waiting to go to Heaven." She told us that all she's able to do now is lay down where she's comfortable and think and pray. She said she does get lonely at times as she thinks of the family and remembers past years, but it quickly passes and she's looking for a way to be a blessing right where she is. She's really got a burden for Polly, her roommate.

As we said we needed toget back on the road to return home she reached for our hands and said, "Let's pray." Then before I could begin praying for my grandmother, she began praying for us! She prayed for the boys and their travels, their schooling, for Cressalyn (she corrected herself after calling her Jessica!) and her job and school. She prayed for Ken and I in our jobs and ministry and then for herself as she is a light there.
WOW!!!! I told her thank you for being a blessing to me and an inspiration to me. She started to tear up so I quickly gathered our things. She is an incredible woman! What a love for God she has! What an example for us!

2008 Year in Review

2008-12-27T19:38:00.001-05:00

January began with Nathan heading to El Salvador for his first missions trip out of the country. Within 10 days following his return he was in the hospital with an unknown infection in his lungs. It turns out that he had inhaled a fungus and had developed histoplasmosis. His hospital stay lasted 5 days and he has completely recovered! Praise the Lord!

In April Ken, Judy & Cressalyn were able to get away to Myrtle Beach for a few days of camping, fishing and relaxing. When we returned home we had the closing on our very first home! We became HOMEOWNERS!!! Or as we have quickly discovered…Home MOANERS! This has been an incredible experience! We are so happy to have found a lovely home in a wonderful community with beautiful neighbors!
Nathan graduated from high school and we celebrated his 18th birthday at the same time.

In August Judy delivered Nathan to Oklahoma Wesleyan University in Bartlesville, OK. 2 weeks later she and her mother, Aletha Sheets, drove to Sussex, New Brunswick, Canada to drop Kenny off at Bethany Bible College.

In September Ken began his online courses through Indiana Wesleyan University. He is in the Master’s in Leadership program. Ken is working as the General Manager for an Arby’s restaurant in Roanoke while he works on his master’s program. He is also working with the children’s pastor at Parkway Wesleyan Church where we are members.

In November, Judy left the banking business to become Ken’s Assistant Manager. They are truly enjoying working together!
Cressalyn is working at Famous Anthony’s, a local restaurant chain. She is nearing the end of her high school work and hopes to be finished in the spring of 2009. She’s looking at Southern Wesleyan and Bethany Bible as her higher education options.

Sasha and Carmel continue to add a lot of joy to our lives.

Throughout this year we have learned a lot of things. Here is our top ten list of what we have learned!

10. Do not cut down a tree without professional supervision.
9. Not all rooms in a house are square.
8. Canada and Oklahoma are a LONG way from Virginia!
7. Dogs and skunks don’t mix.
6. Reglazing a tub doesn’t always work.
5. Never let Wesley Phillips caulk a tub!
4. Lowes, Home Depot and Sears are a homeowner’s wonderlands!
3. Breaking up a large cement birdbath with a sledgehammer isn’t a good idea.
2. Emotional healing is a wonderful thing!
1. God is incredibly faithful during very difficult times!

May the Lord bless you and your family in the coming year!

James 1:17
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T21:14:00.001-05:00

From our family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a blessed 2009!

What's the Reason?

2008-12-15T22:46:00.003-05:00

This is a sign at a church we pass almost daily. Is this really the reason for the season?

The Night the Gaithers Came to Town

2008-12-10T23:14:00.004-05:00

The choir from Parkway Wesleyan Church where we are members, was invited to sing with the Gaither Homecoming Christmas Tour at the Roanoke Civic Center, Dec. 6. We had incredible seats and a wonderful time of praising and singing! We sang 2 specials and then backed up the Gaither Vocal Band and other artists! What a blast!Our seats were to the left of the stage so our view was actually of everyone's backs. But it was a great time and an honor to be asked to participate! The Gaither Vocal Band with David Phelps filling in for Guy Penrod.

David Phelps.

O, Holy Night will never be the same!

Mark Lowry was on hand for humor and a story about "Piper" the mouse.

Janet Pascal. I didn't know she has been battling breast cancer. Her sister as well. She reported that both of them are currently completely cancer free!

Ivan Parker

Ernie Haase and the Signature Sound sang with the Gaither Vocal Band. I love that!

Probably the highlight of the evening on a fan level was when Cressalyn was able to speak with David Phelps. He is one of Kenny's favorite singers and it was fun to get this picture to share with Kenny.
We have heard reports from so many who were touched by the ministry of the choir. Many have inquired about the church and services times. It will be fun to see who God brings our way just because of a 4 hour concert!

Newest Improvements

2008-11-17T21:08:00.004-05:00

There are the before and after pictures of the foyer and stairs.

So? What do you think?

Another God Moment

2008-11-09T23:48:00.002-05:00

Saturday I took time to finish blowing the leaves out of our front yard. Our next door neighbors, an older couple, Charlie & Genny, left their house. When they left I thought it would be a cool thing to blow off their driveway. My concern is that the rain would make the leaves slick and one of them could fall. They have a gorgeous maple tree and all its leaves are nearly gone. So I took care of the driveway.

They were easier leaves than mine! So, I did their sidewalk and porch. I was joying myself so much that I thought I'd go ahead and do the entire front yard. Those leaves were very easily blowing the way I wanted...unless the wind blew them back. I kept an eye out for their car. I didn't want to be there when they returned. I got to thinking that maybe what I was doing would come across as offensive to them. I hadn't asked first. I prayed and asked God to not let this offend them. I specifically asked for God to let this be a ministry, a blessing to them.

It was dark when I finished and they weren't home yet. Great!

Sunday morning, today, Ken headed out to walk the dog before church and Charlie was out in his driveway. He asked Ken if he had taken care of the leaves. Ken told him I had. Charlie then told Ken, "You don't know what this means to me." He proceeded to tell Ken that he and Genny had gone to church and then stopped at McDonald's for a snack like usual. They returned to the car and got in. He started the ignition...

...and she died.

Whoa! Little did I know how HUGE of a blessing it would be for me to take care of something so minor as leaves! I am so thankful that I was obedient and continued blowing those leaves even when my mind started thinking up worst case scenarios!

We went over this afternoon and met with the family and Charlie. Everyone was so grateful. We look forward to walking through the door that has been opened to us with this dear family. Please join us in praying for them as they go through the next days. It looks like the funeral will be Wednesday.

Poor Carmel

2008-11-04T18:10:00.002-05:00

Last week, Carmel investigated a visitor in or near the back yard. She was then blessed with a burst of "sweet-smelling" bodily fluid from a black animal with a white stripe down its back. Following a baking soda/vinegar bath...which she absolutely loved....NOT!...she smells much better but a slight "fragrance" lingers.

Yesterday I found a tick on her. On her head. I pulled it off. The head stayed. The vet said to watch the skin around the bite. So I had to fix it so I could see her skin.

Now she is mad at me. Seriously! She isn't coming when she is called, and she doesn't want me to pet her. And how dare I even speak to her if I am near the bathroom door! Nope. She wants nothing to do with me.

Imagine how she would feel if she could read this and see her picture!

We have a leak

2008-10-27T22:11:00.003-04:00

Help!

Happy Birthday, Ken!

2008-10-26T21:51:00.005-04:00

Today is my beloved hubby's 41st birthday. I had something special planned for the day!

Following church I pulled the truck up to the door and he and Cressalyn got in. I had told him that we had been invited to dinner at Wes & Chris's. He ASSUMED that's where we were headed. So he told me I needed to be in the left lane exiting the parking lot. With the traffic backed up I drove in the right lane...ignoring his objections and proceeded to turn right at the bottom of the hill. I told him I could turn around and go the other direction. Ken instructed me to get into the left lane and pointed to a place where I could turn around...insisting that I turn.."right here, Dear!"

I said, "naw..I think I'll just keep driving." Ken threw up his hands in a bit of frustration. Then he said, "So dinner at Wes & Chris's was a cover. Where are we going?" I refused to answer. A few minutes later he asked if he had time to take a nap! I said yes.

30 minutes down the road we entered Bedford, VA. I pulled into the Sonic restaurant because I knew we needed a little snack to tide us over until lunch. Ken's response was, "I KNOW we didn't drive all this way to just go to Sonic." We proceeded on down the road.

Ken asked if we were going to Lynchburg. I didn't answer. On the other side of Lynchburg I told him, "no we aren't going to Lynchburg." He gathered. He then said we were probably going to Richmond. Again, I said nothing.

Nathan called his phone and I panicked that Nathan would leak something. But he was cool and just wished his dad a happy birthday. Each time the phone rang I was nervous. I didn't share my plans with many people on purpose.

I pulled off the first exit toward the town of Farmville. Ken's dad had years ago pastored there for a time. I drove to a restaurant and pulled in to park. Getting out of the vehicle Ken said, "you know we have one of these in Roanoke." I answered, "Really? I googled this one." This was true! I had googled directions to this one!

So we went inside. I verbally told the hostess that there were 3 of us while holding up 5 fingers in front of me. I tried to communicate that we needed seating for 5 but not to let anyone else know we had others joining us. She then told me they could only seat parties of 5 outside on the deck. Shoot! I was sure Ken had heard her. But one we were seated outside...with smokers...Ken asked why they couldn't seat us inside. I tried to tell him they didn't have room for us inside...with a straight face...but I couldn't. Shoot! So I did tell him that 2 others would be joining us.

Ken's mind began running through his Rolodex. He hadn't been able to reach either of his parents on any phone. So he verbalized that it could be them...but that would really take some doing since they had been here 2 weeks ago. He watched the parking lot. He watched the front door.

I placed a phone call when he left for the restroom...and was still on it when he returned. He asked who it was. I told my first fib of the event! I told him it was my mom. In reality, I was checking the progress of our dinner buddies.

As we sat looking over the menus and munching on an appetizer, Ken looked at the door to the restaurant and his eyes got huge and face lit up..."It's Bernie & Joy!"

Ken was blown away! This was the greatest surprise I have ever pulled off! It was such fun to catch up with our precious friends from Michigan! They are vacationing in Williamsburg. We moved to Dairy Queen for desert and continued talking.

After nearly 4 hours it was time to say goodbye. Ken has to be to work very early Monday morning and we had a 2 hour drive home.

Happy birthday, Ken! It's so fun being married to you! Thank you for being such a good sport!

Improvements

2008-10-11T17:56:00.004-04:00

We have a bench in the backyard that came with the house.

It was very weathered so Cressalyn and I sanded and painted it. Purple is the only color we had on hand!

I picked up 2 planters at a yard sale today. Then I found 4 mums on sale. So this is what I did this afternoon!

I'm not sure how the mums will fair. I'm not good at this. Pray for them!

Carmel enjoys her backyard! And chasing and being chased are her favorite activities! That and chewing on Sasha!

How to bathe a 1 year old in 15 steps

2008-09-25T23:35:00.002-04:00

1. Call the 1 year old to you.

2. Ask the 1 year old to go into the bathroom.

3. Chase the 1 year old as she runs away.

4. Catch the 1 year old.

5. Wrestle the 1 year old into the bathroom and quickly shut the door.

6. Scoop your arms around the 1 year old who is now flattened on the floor in a feeble attempt to avoid capture.

7. Heave the 1 year old into the bathtub.

8. Turn on the water being careful not to burn the 1 year old.

9. Use a large cup to poor water over the hair of the 1 year old.

10. Add shampoo and lather, really working the shampoo all through the hair.

11. Rinse.

12. Tell the 1 year old not to drink the bath water.

13. Wrap the 1 year old in a large towel and dry off excess water.

14. Stand back as the 1 year old helps by shaking.

15. Mop up the water from the floor...walls...mirrors...cabinets...then change clothes.

21 Years!

2008-09-12T11:13:00.004-04:00

Today Ken and I are celebrating our 21st wedding anniversary! It is amazing how the Lord has brought us through these years! The Dating YearsOur Engagement
Our WeddingThe birth of our children.
Many places of ministry.

Thank you, Lord, for blessing our marriage! In a day when so many marriages end long before 21 years, we are humbled by Your impact on our lives!

Happy Anniversary, My Love!

I'm thinking of getting a helicopter

2008-09-02T20:33:00.002-04:00

You see, a plane needs a lot of room for take off and landing so there are only certain places you can go. In a helicopter you don't need a long runway. Plus, you can hover over an area if you can't land and drop stuff off on a line...or pick stuff up. They do it all the time on TV. My hubby was dropped from a helicopter to the deck of his ship. So I know it can be done.

There are many benefits to having a helicopter.

1. You can get there faster than in a car.

2. The view from above is awesome! In a plane it's too high up most times. You can't see through the clouds.

3. You miss all kinds of road construction and traffic jams.

4. You don't have to watch out for moose.

5. You don't lock your keys inside at a gas station.

6. It's WAY cooler to arrive in!

Anyone know where I can find one...cheap?

Prayer is Needed!

2008-08-26T22:35:00.002-04:00

This Saturday afternoon/evening, Kenny, my mother, and I will be crossing the border into Canada. We are requesting prayer for this crossing! Please pray for clear and safe passage into Canada! It's hard work getting all the stuff into the car for the trip. It would be horrid to have to remove it all for inspection!

We are trusting the Lord for a safe trip there and back!

Thank you!!!

Another Room Done

2008-08-23T11:53:00.003-04:00

With Nate off to school we took the time to CLEAN and organize his room into our guest room. It's still here for him when he comes home, but now we have a functional CLEAN guest room.

Did I mention that it is now CLEAN??

It Is Done...Again!

2008-08-18T21:51:00.002-04:00

2 years ago Ken and I delivered our firstborn to his freshman year of college. This weekend I delivered Nathan to Oklahoma Wesleyan University.

Overall the trip went very smoothly. We did hit traffic and rain in Memphis on Friday. We stayed in hotels that were nice enough. We talked, we sang, we munched, and we listened to books on CD. One in particular...a Louis L'Amour. He LOVES Louis L'Amour books. It was a great time for us, spending final hours together.

The closer we got to Bartlesville, the more Nathan talked...the more random his topics and words. If you spend anytime with Nate, you know that he is a very random individual at times. He was enamored with the oil pumps that were all over the fields. Some worked. He was amazed at the openness of the land. If you could have been in his head you would have seen him picturing the stories from his books. He realized that he was in the same area where so much history that he has enjoyed took place in Oklahoma.

He saw his first armadillo. It was actually road kill but nonetheless it was an armadillo. We looked for longhorn cattle but didn't see any on the way in. I did on the way out of Bartlesville.

The staff of OWU had orchestrated registration in a wonderful way. Everything went by the schedule. We ended the day on Saturday with a worship time and a goodbye ceremony. Ugh.

This mother was already a basket case by the time she sat down for the worship. Then the students filed to the front of the large chapel to get a rose. They brought the roses to their parents to say goodbye. By the time Nathan made his way to me I was a wreck. We hugged and he began to thank me for the opportunity to attend OWU. He thanked me for many other things, too. I then, prayed for Nathan...sobbing the whole while. Nathan prayed for me, too. When we broke out of the hug I saw the tears on his face.

Letting your children go to begin their adulthood is very difficult. I have been told this over and over. Now I am experiencing it for the second time. The first time was hard enough. The second time has actually been harder.

Cressalyn has been told that she cannot leave me. I can't do this again.

She doesn't agree.

Did you know....

2008-08-16T00:16:00.001-04:00

Tennessee is a terribly LONG state!

Family Photo

2008-08-10T13:28:00.002-04:00

Today is the last Sunday that the 5 of us will be together for who knows how long. Nathan heads to college Thursday and Kenny leaves in 2 weeks. We aren't sure what holidays will hold for the coming years.

So Momma made everyone pose on the porch of OUR house for one last family photo.

They wouldn't let me bring the dogs into the picture.

I Need Help!

2008-08-04T21:57:00.006-04:00

While we have been setting up our lovely new home and making improvements, one room in the house has been neglected. It's visited every day, many times throughout the day. It's a room that each member of the family uses. Even the furry family members like to enter.

My office.

I painted the walls my favorite color...yellow...to provide a place of retreat, a place for creativity, a place for communication. There are shelves that were built in already that are wonderful for all my stamps and other crafty items.
But a few weeks back, Ken had to move out of his office at the church. Since books do not do well in a non-climate controlled environment, they all needed to be kept...in my office.

I have plans to build shelves in the closet for the books that currently reside in boxes. But finances are tight and time is short. So it remains a plan.

One interesting phenomenon of house cleaning each day/week is that my office tends to get overlooked. Mostly it becomes the place to put things that no one knows what to do with. Put it in Mom's office. She'll figure out where is goes.

We've only lived in this house for 2 months. Before we ever moved I declared my office would be organized!

My family laughed at me.

She's 16!!!

2008-07-22T16:30:00.004-04:00

My baby, my only girl, is 16 years old today! I cannot believe how quickly the years have gone by!

This was at the shower that the ladies of Ramseur Wesleyan gave us! Ken was the youth pastor.

She really got into her first birthday cake!

A few weeks after her first birthday I was able to catch her first steps. Unfortunately, we didn't own a video camera then. So you have to take my word for it. This picture is of her first steps!
My father had photographed me with my curls by a tree. So I wanted to do the same thing. We are amazed at how much she looks like me!Her favorite person in the world has always been her Daddy. These days she and I have gotten a whole lot closer! She even considers me her best friend! Can many mothers of teen girls say that?
When we lived in Michigan we took day trips over to Sarnia, Canada. This is the Canadian side of the St. Clair river leading to Lake Huron.

Cressalyn has grown into a beautiful young woman! We are in awe at how God is shaping her into who she will become! It is a total honor and joy to be her mother!

Happy Birthday, Cressalyn!

I think I will become an EMT

2008-07-19T19:38:00.006-04:00

So the plan was to move rocks. In order to do that some prep work was needed in the places where rock would be spread. So we started trimming back the ivy, picking up the ceramic figurine remnants (previous owner LOVED yard ornaments!), scooping up what Carmel "drops", and removing some of the plastic that was originally placed under the rocks to prevent weeds from growing. The surrounding tree roots have grown and ripped the plastic in many places.

In our preparation process we decided to move the blue birdbath from its current location to a better spot, out of the main walkway. This had previously been used as a planter so all the dirt had to be removed first. Then we tipped the top "dish" section on its side to hose it out. We found that there were large chips and stress fractures in the structure. After the top section was cleaned and set aside Ken attempted to move the pedestal. Nope. Not budging. Ok, so we started raking and shoveling the rocks from around the base. We discovered the the pedestal had been partially buried in the rocks. After more shoveling and raking we found that the pedestal wasn't going to move. It appeared to have been affixed to a cement slap as well! This thing would have survived a tornado!

Out comes the sledgehammer! No longer are we dedicated to the preservation of the big blue birdbath! Cressalyn was given the rights to the first swings! She did well at chipping away some of the top edges of the pedestal but it was too difficult to continue. She was demoted. Ken took over the sledgehammer.

One whack! Two whacks! On the third whack Ken hollered very loudly and dropped the hammer and grabbed his hand. Blood was already flowing quite a bit! Cressalyn ran to turn the hose on and I grabbed the end of it to wash the wound. There was a deep gash in Ken's pointer finger just at the first knuckle! Cressalyn brought rags and then returned for keys and wallets and we were off! On the way to Urgent Care I called Ken's mom, the Davis family guru of all things first-aid, and in discussing the situation with her we decided to try whatever CVS could supply us with. So we got butterfly tape, finger tube gauze and a splint. We returned home and performed first-aid.

My thought was that Ken was finished for the day and the kids and I would clean up what we had done and that would be the end. But no.

Ken felt the need to go back outside and "supervise." Nathan began relocating large rocks to the very back of the yard. The bottom of the fence is not in the ground and Carmel may one day discover an escape route. While Nathan was toting rocks Ken got distracted by the stump of a tree we had knocked down last week. He got the hatchet and shovel and he and I removed 3 stumps. I went inside to begin dinner.

Now that they were completely UNSUPERVISED, Ken and Nathan decided to take the chainsaw and remove a tree that was split in the base. Neither one of them have done this before but being homeowners now, we are all stepping WAY out of our league on many projects!

They cut the tree which then got hung up by the top in the neighbor's tree (behind our house.) I was summoned to give my "expertise" as to how the tree should be brought down with as little damage to the fence, shed and the neighbor's tree as possible. From where I stood it looked like a simple "pendulum" theory. Nathan would support the trunk of the tree from underneath while Ken cut about 4 feet above Nathan. The theory was that gravity would then take the top part and swing it completely into the neighbor's yard and miss the fence. The bottom of the tree was under Nathan's strong control so we went for it.

Oops.

As the chainsaw cut through the tree the weight of the trunk fell completely on Nathan, crushing his right hand and sending him to the ground in a heap. The top part did NOT swing like a pendulum and dropped like an anvil onto Ken and the fence.

I took Nathan inside for evaluation while Ken tried to "pull" the top of the tree back into our yard. I forgot to mention that the tree was about 18 inches around and 30 feet tall. We are stupid.

After another phone call to our favorite medical advisor, we concluded that with the mobility in his hand, Nathan did not need to be checked by a physician. Ice and rest have relieved some swelling. He doesn't have full strength and grip, but all the joints function.

Ken and I cut the remaining tree parts and pulled them into our yard. The fence is fine, the shed is fine. After dinner we went and carried the debris to the front yard for pick up. As we finalized the clean up Ken noticed that the neighbor beside us was removing tree debris as well. Upon further investigation he realized it was OUR tree that had fallen into their yard during the nasty storm last week! Ken then assisted them in removing THAT tree, too!

With all that we have accomplished today, not a BIT of the piles of rocks were touched! We are also finding the being a homeowner is very hazardous to Ken's health! He's had a nail go into the side of his nose (no, he wasn't trying to pierce his nose!), he slit his wrist with a putty knife (no, he doesn't need counseling!), and now he has smashed his finger with a sledgehammer.

Is this covered by our homeowners' insurance?

Rocks

2008-07-18T22:29:00.005-04:00

When we first looked at our house we got the impression that the previous owner didn't like grass. Maybe not the grass itself, but the upkeep of it at least. We got this impression from the variety of rocks in the back yard and on the side of the driveway.

While landscaping rocks can be beautiful and when arranged nicely are very pleasing to the eye, getting out of the vehicle and stepping IN the landscaping rocks isn't a lot of fun. So we began to remove the rocks on the side of the driveway. We discovered that the plants that had been placed there years ago and allowed to grow had done just that. Their roots ran deep. One ivy-type plant had been placed in a large pedestal pot near the road. This plant grew up and over the wire "structure" in the pot and then back down all around the pot. It grew so thick and full that it grew back INTO the ground under the pot! It looked like a green version of "Cousin It!!"

With A LOT of cutting, pulling, pushing, yanking and shoveling, "Cousin It" no longer lives here. The remaining plants were cut away and then removed last weekend when Ken used the machine he rented on them. He rented a front-end loader thingy that you can walk behind. He cleared the whole side of the driveway! Now there is a very large pile of rock in front of the shed.

While he had the machine he decided to move some of the general gray stones from the backyard just behind the house. Our intention is to clear some land for some sod. We feel that planting grass seed with the kind of shade we have isn't going to produce the kind of grass we want. So he moved rocks. He went down nearly a foot and STILL there was more rock! Now there is a VERY large pile of rock BEHIND the shed!

Tomorrow the Davis family will be bonding with each other and shovels and a wheelbarrel. There are some places in the backyard that can use a little more rock to level out some bare spots. We will attempt to make a dent in the piles.

We would also like to invite you to come and pick up a load of rocks for your own home improvement projects. It's free!

20 years

2008-07-04T01:47:00.004-04:00

What were you doing 20 years ago today? How did you celebrate the July 4th holiday of 1988?

I can tell you that I was having a very difficult day...but it ended wonderfully! My holiday weekend started on the 2nd...as I was put in the hospital to be induced with my first child. This child was already 6 days late and they decided that it was time.

One thing that my brother, Paul, said to me on the phone when I called to tell him we were going in to be induced was this. "Be prepared for the possibility of having a c-section." Yeah right. No way.

He was wise, though. I'm so glad God told him to tell me that. You see, my labor took forever. In fact, it was 56 hours later that our first son was born....via c-section.

As I was strapped to the OR table with my insides all exposed, the doctor said "It's a boy!" and my beloved husband looked down at me with tears and delight in his eyes and said, "Kenneth, Jr." I hadn't wanted to name my child "Junior" but I realized at that moment I had better agree or I might not be put back together!!

20 years ago today Ken and I stopped being just a couple. We began the journey of being a family. It's a great journey to be on!

Happy Birthday, Kenny!

What a Party!

2008-06-29T00:35:00.005-04:00

It's amazing how God brings all of our plans together! Being relatively new to the area and new to the church we are attending, we weren't sure who to invite to Nathan's party. The majority of invitations/announcements went out of state! But we decided to go for it and hope for the best.

God brought together people from the church we are attending. The youth pastor and the leader of the class that Nathan is attending on Sundays both came. It was good to get to meet them and know them a little better. Nathan made better connections, as well.

Along with these 2 men were teens from the church we just left last month. Not everyone was able to come, but 3 were. It was great to see them again and our kids enjoyed getting to spend some time with them. Also, the youth pastor from that group was able to stop by.

One family from EWC came with their 2 children. These kids are very special to all of the Davis family! Nathan just last week had passed on all of his army men to their son! Another couple who Ken and I are building a friendship with came. It's so good to fellowship with others!

Papa and Nana were able to come up from North Carolina. They represented the family members who weren't able to be with us. Wes & Chris Phillips and their kids are like family to us so they added to that mix, too.A very special family made a surprise (to Nathan) visit! A dear friend from Michigan happened to be in the area for the weekend and called last night to see if we had some time to get together. I told her of the party and urged her to come with her 2 grandsons! They did! So they were able to represent all the friends from far away who weren't able to be with us!I am so impressed with how God brought all of this together! He's so good at those details! I couldn't have planned that or even thought it through! I guess that's why I'm not God!

Nathan ended his day with a dinner of tacos. If you could spend any time with him these days you would find that tacos are his favorite things. Tacos are discussed on a daily basis. He carries a picture of a taco on his cell phone. Did you know that Taco Bell does NOT do gift card or gift certificates?

He's 18 Today!!!!!

2008-06-28T08:10:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday, Nathan!

A God Moment

2008-06-27T21:37:00.004-04:00

Today I struggled terribly with a migraine. I was sent to another branch to fill in as they were short-handed. I was able to go home for lunch and lay down for a bit but when I got back to work the pain intensified. I was nearly sick to my stomach.

A lady and her young adult son walked in. She had questions regarding how to handle her account. She began by saying that her husband had passed away just Wednesday and she began to weep. My heart broke for her! I answered her questions and took care of her transaction. As she was gathering her things to leave I felt the need to ask her if it would be ok if I were to pray for her. She immediately stopped and reached over the counter and grabbed my hand. I quickly reached for hers and quietly prayed for strength, peace and clarity of mind during these difficult days.

She thanked me and said they were Christians as well! And then they left.

Had I been in my own branch I don't know that I would have felt as free to do that. I don't know. I haven't been "asked" to do so. This really took me out of my comfort zone...but what amazed me the most...is that for a few moments, my focus wasn't on the pain in my own head. It was on the pain in her heart. My heart ached for her. I cannot understand what she is dealing with but I do know she is hurting.

From there on my headache began to ease. No kidding. The nausea let up. I ended my workday feeling the best I had felt all day!

Aren't God moments amazing?

Cressalyn's Room

2008-06-07T23:44:00.004-04:00

Cressalyn's room is completed! We do have a couple final details that will come in time, but we are ready for the next unveiling of the remodeling process!

Here is before:

And here are the after pictures!

We will be hanging the shelf for her doll collection on the wall in the last picture. From the looks of the pictures, can anyone tell what her favorite color is???

The Basement Bathroom

2008-06-04T19:51:00.003-04:00

Tonight I was looking forward to laying the tile in the basement bathroom that would allow us to progress to having 2 usable toilets. Down the road we have plans to expand this bathroom but for now, laying cheap tile to replace the aweful carpet that had been UNDER the toilet seemed to be the best short-term fix.

So, for your viewing pleasure, here are pictures of our tile-laying adventure!

As you can see, tile didn't get on the floor tonight. Instead, as we began removing the baseboard we discovered black mold behind the toilet area. So Ken began demolition. He looked at me once and asked, "And we became homeowners why?"

Oh the joys!

The Kitchen is Finished! Almost...

2008-06-02T21:00:00.005-04:00

The final special touch of the kitchen has yet to be done. But for now, these are the before and after pictures of the kitchen!

Stay tuned! As time progresses, more improvement photos will be coming! (Whew! This is hard work!)

Before Pictures of the New House

2008-05-19T00:16:00.000-04:00

HGTV is so cruel!

2008-05-10T00:16:00.002-04:00

I know you have seen the shows. You have been drawn to the channel to see what can be done to a space in a house for next to no money in next to no time. I am proclaiming here and now that HGTV is totally and utterly cruel!!!

For several years I have taken a mild interest in the home improvement and decorating programing on television. My husband, on the other hand, not so much. He never really saw the need. As we began the process of looking to purchase a home of our own I began paying more attention to these shows. During the days leading to the actual closing it was very interesting to find the remote in Ken's hand and the channel on...yep! HGTV.

So in the past 9 days that we have been offical homeowners we have been doing some of the redecorating that needs to take place for us to move in. Things that are much easier to be done without furniture in the house.

As Cressalyn and I have spent many hours slaving away at our various tasks, it has occurred to me that HGTV has deceived us all. They have told us on their programs that we can do these techniques, colors schemes, decorating ideas, etc., in our own homes...with our own budgets....by ourselves.

WRONG!!!

What they do not show us is the crew that comes in and assists with all the hard labor!! They can do what they do in the time they do it in because they have a crew!! What I want to know is...WHERE IS MY CREW???

Bless her precious heart, Cressalyn has been pouring herself into this house so much! I have asked much of her while I am at work and she gladly is doing it! I am so blessed to have a wonderful assistant!

Ken and the boys are helping as they are able when their work schedules allow. Last Sunday I allowed everyone the day off from working on the house. This Sunday, however....being MOTHER'S DAY....will be different! Following the morning services and lunch we will be spending the rest of MY day working our OUR home! I know that the Lord's Day is to be a day of rest. But I think He will understand this time since it's the one time that all 5 of us can work together and really accomplish a lot.

So, beware as you watch those inticing shows on HGTV and other channels like them. They like to suck you in!!!! You might end up like us! In the middle of a HUGE project that seems to have no end!!!

Home Owners

2008-05-01T00:38:00.003-04:00

We have officially joined the group of humans who like the think they own their home! Ken keeps telling me that it is the bank who actually owns it an allows us the rights of occupancy!

However you want to look at it....WE HAVE OUR OWN HOUSE!!!!!!!!

So what if it took over 20 years to get one of our own???? It's all in God's time, right?

Wanna come help us redecorate???

Vacation!

2008-04-20T19:25:00.003-04:00

Finally! We attempted to have vacation in January only to have to return early to Nathan's hospitalization. This time we prayed for a successful and relaxing time! And God granted it!

Kenny and Nathan had to remain home to work so this was the first time Ken and I had days alone with just Cressalyn. It was a great time! We went camping in Myrtle Beach, SC. The weather was gorgeous as the week progressed but the first night we nearly froze! We actually went to Kohl's and picked up their last 2 electric throws!

On Wednesday morning we woke to discover a small bird building a nest on top of the tent just under the fly. It had been working for some time due to the size of the collection of nesting material! As Ken and Cressalyn removed the fly and brushed off the bird's hard work, the bird made one last attempt to move in. We said no.

We were able to take in the Ripley's Aquarium. That was a wonderful experience! Cressalyn touched horseshoe crabs and stingrays. I have to admit I was a bit on edge with the rays...flashbacks to Steve Irwin. I know they have it all safe and ready for the public. But still. It's the idea.

Ken and Cressalyn played catch on the beach on Thursday and the wind was it's usual blustery self. Once Cressalyn lost the softball in the sun and caught the ball in her right eye. Nothing was broken but she had a nice swollen purple area above her eye brow. She's all better now.

Ken's goal was to catch a fish in the ocean. We did fish but we only caught sunrays! The pelicans were catching but not us! During a time when Ken was without the camera on the pier a pelican sat just a few feet from him and watch him fish. I wish we had seen that!

We dropped Cressalyn off at home for a youth paintball activity and continued on our way to Pennsylvania. We made a quick trip to see Ken's family. With the changes in his employment we know our future travelling days will be limited so we wanted to get up there for even a short visit. We had great travelling weather up but it rained all the way home.

Now we have to get back to reality. Ken's job begins tomorrow and I have to go back to work. Life goes on!

Happenings

2008-04-02T22:27:00.002-04:00

Spring seems to be a busy time of year around the Davis home. We are usually longing to spend every free moment outside in whatever sunshine we are blessed with as the seasons continue on their natural cycle. This year is no different, although we are loving having flowers a LOT sooner than we did in New York!

During the past days and weeks we have been busy filling out forms. Yes, everyone is filling out the dreaded tax forms that are due in just a few days, and we have done our part. In addition, we have been filling out college forms. For 3 students. Let me explain.

Kenny has decided to return to school, this time to Bethany Bible College in New Brunswick, Canada. He received word just yesterday that he is completely accepted! Yay! Nathan is focused on getting to Oklahoma Wesleyan University in Bartlesville, OK. All the forms are in and we are awaiting final acceptance. He's also applied to SWU, but only as a back up.

Ken has applied to the master's program through IWU...online. The majority of his forms are in and we are waiting for the final details of that.

But in the middle of all the preparation for college education for the fall, we have been filling out additional forms. For a mortgage.

Yes! We are in the process of buying our first house! Whoo hooo!!!!! What an exciting and yet frightening time! My beloved husband freaks out on a daily basis! He's so funny to watch! What has been wonderful to watch is how the Lord is putting all of this together for us! We seem to be just signing papers! God's making the decisions! How cool is that!

We are finally putting some roots down into a community. This feels so good. One of the big changes in order for all of this to come together and work well is that Ken is stepping out of the ministry while he is pursuing his master's degree. This was a difficult decision, but in weighing all the options and effects on the family it is the best. And God is already blessing that decision!

May 31 will be his last day at the church. God is providing other secular employment which will allow Ken to work without the pressures of 24 hour ministry. My job at the bank just went full time and we are excited to see God hand in all of this!

So celebrate with us! Pray with us! Closing is set for April 30! Pray for continued smoothness (is that a word??) through this process!!

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T22:29:00.003-04:00

We enjoyed a short visit to Greensboro and then High Point, NC to see my parents and my grandmother. As the residents were gathering for an evening service we had some time to share in singing some of Grandma's requests. It was a great time even though it wasn't long. Each time we visit with Grandma we don't know if it will be our last and this was one day when each of us were off work and could make the trip and get an updated family photo.

Smoothies...and Fiber

2008-03-05T23:38:00.003-05:00

The Davis family has taken to making smoothies as a late night treat instead of digging into gallons of ice cream. We've been told they are healthier for us. Wikipedia says, "Smoothies appeal to a wide range of age groups because of their sweetness, fresh fruit flavor, and nutritional value. Most are high in dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants." Dietary Fiber.

Do we really know what DIETARY FIBER looks like?

See the little light colored dash-like things? Those are actual dietary fiber molecules that have been magnified 10000000000 times! You really shouldn't be able to see these with the naked eye but we were able to capture one of the largest of these molecules ever known to exist!

See it right there on Ken's tongue? It's a wonder of science! We are waiting to hear from researchers who want to know exactly where we were able locate such a large specimen! Truthfully, it wasn't very difficult at all to locate this. In fact, like many scientific discoveries, it was Ken who stumbled upon this by accident!

He was making smoothies Wednesday night. He followed all the instructions that were given to him. But one VERY improtant detail was left out.

NEVER use a wooden spoon in a blender.

A Young Missionary

2008-03-01T13:38:00.002-05:00

Last Sunday one of our precious boys in children's church, Nicholas, told Pastor Ken that he had the chance to be a missionary on his bus! He said he was able to tell his friend about Jesus and that the friend accepted Jesus into his life!

Everyone cheered for Nicholas and his friend! It was wonderful news! We know there is a party going on in Heaven!

Carmel and Her Dad

2008-02-28T00:32:00.005-05:00

Carmel is really growing. She is enjoying life and we are enjoying her! She seems to not get the concept of relaxing in the evening, though! Monday night she was all over Daddy as she wanted to play while he tried to relax. She thinks she's a lap dog.

Nathan

2008-02-07T20:46:00.001-05:00

Nathan was back to the doctor today for a follow-up. He's doing VERY well! At this time there's no need to see a lung specialist. The doctor does wants to check him again in 3 months regarding the nodules on his lungs.

Thank you for praying for him!

Great Aunt!

2008-02-06T18:21:00.000-05:00

I've known for 30 years now that I am a great aunt! Who wouldn't know that? I AM a great aunt! I have 2 wonderful nephews, 3 wonderful nieces, 2 beautiful nieces-in-law, and one fantastic nephew-in-law! But get this! I have 2 gorgeous GREAT nieces! That makes me a GREAT aunt! See?

And just today a new addition was added to the Sheets Clan. Samuel James Sheets was born to Brock and Esther and sister, Reagan. His grandparents are my brother and sister-in-law, David and Bea. Samuel is 7 lbs., 14 oz. and 20 inches long! Can't wait for pictures!

Welcome Samuel!

DIAGNOSIS!

2008-01-31T16:03:00.000-05:00

Nathan has been officially been diagnosed with HISTOPLASMOSIS. Histoplasmosis (say: hiss-toe-plaz-mo-sis) is an infection in your lungs caused by a fungus. In severe cases, it can spread through the whole body.

More than likely the team was infected with this as they cleared brush, dug in the dirt, and stirred up the mold that was in the ground.

We are praising the Lord for a name...but also realizing that we aren't completely finished dealing with this. Nathan goes back to the doctor next Thursday. If his lungs are still bad he will be referred to a lung specialist.

Everyone from the team is out of the hospital now and recovering at home. Progress is slow but steady. We are hearing reports of OTHER team members who have been ill, too.

Thank you for your prayers and encouragement! We serve an awesome God!

Still Improving!

2008-01-30T13:23:00.000-05:00

Nathan continues to improve, but isn't up to 100% yet. He still has a low grade fever every so often. His appetite is good. He's resting well. He's working on his school work with breaks for rest. He's still pretty weak.

Thursday he has a follow up with the family doctor. Hopefully we will have some closure to this ordeal.

He's Home!

2008-01-28T14:36:00.001-05:00

Nathan was discharged today. He will follow up with our family doctor Thursday. He's still on antibiotics. He can return to work if he is fever free for 24 hours or more.

We will keep close tabs on his temperature. He may still have fevers and all, but things are definitely on the upswing. His chest x-ray from last night was good. No pneumonia.

Thank you all for your prayers! He's not completely well, but he's greatly improved! His family is GREATLY relieved!

Two Steps Forward, One Step Back

2008-01-27T21:02:00.001-05:00

Today began with another fever spike and vomiting. Every time the fever goes above 100.9 they have to do another blood culture. For the rest of the day his temperature remained under 100. Nathan enjoyed lunch and dinner and has retained them.

The doctor this morning was concerned about his cough. He said if it got worse they would do a chest x-ray. It got worse. We are waiting the results of that. There are nodules on his lungs that showed up Thursday on the CT Scan. We will see what's up with those.

Nate's been in wonderful spirits! In fact his nurse today said he was an encouragement to her!

Thank you for your continued prayers, emails and phone calls! You are loved!

9:30PM Update! Nathan's fever is up again and he's vomiting. He will be lowered back to a liquid diet now. Ugh. Will this EVER end?

Good Day

2008-01-26T20:02:00.000-05:00

Nathan had a very good day today. His fever continued to go up, but not nearly to the degree it had yesterday! The antibiotics are working. Against what? We still have no idea. His rash is lightening. All of his blood work is normal. He was even allowed to have solid food today. His favorite was the mashed potatoes. He has successfully retained two meals!

So where are we tonight? If his fever continues to be gone, if his cough doesn't worsen, if he continues to hold down foods and if his diarrhea stops THEN he might be allowed to come home Sunday! This would be wonderful, but we do NOT want him home too soon.

He's been a wonderful patient. They had to switch arms for his IV today and it was an hour to get the new one in. He was very calm and cooperative. We are so proud of him!

Emails and phone calls are coming to us from across the country that express how Nathan is being lifted to the Throne. Thank you so very much for this! We know the power of prayer! Our God is greater than any illness!

God brought our paths together with another family 2 doors down the hall today. Their son, Nathaniel, is 16 and in a relapse of leukemia. This second round of chemo has really hit him hard. His mom and I shared beautiful moments discussing our sons and the Lord. We are keenly aware that Satan is attacking the children of God and we are not going to let him defeat us!

She shared that the other night while yet home Nathaniel was feeling down spiritually and told his mom that he wasn't sure if he was still right with God. After reassuring him that our faith is not based on how we feel he still decided he needed to be certain. So right there he prayed and recommitted his life to Christ. He also rebuked Satan saying "you have no power or authority of me! You must let go of my mind, my body and my nauseated stomach. You must bow to the authority of the Blood of Jesus and I am cover with it!"

How wonderful to see God working in the lives of our children! In spite of disease and sickness God still sits on the throne!

Keep praying! And add Nathaniel to your list, please! Thank you!

Nathan

2008-01-25T17:46:00.000-05:00

Nathan slept pretty well a few hours in the night, but between 3-6 AM his fever spiked again sparking the next wave of vomiting. I arrived at the hospital at 10 AM and Ken went home. Nate had settled, was feeling very well, laughing, joking, teasing, etc. He was allowed to begin liquids at lunch and ate just a bit. It stayed down until the next round of fever-spiking-inducing-vomiting. During this round his fever went to a record 104.6. And to top that he has developed a rash on his neck and chest.

All the malaria smears have come back negative. There are no parasites in his stool. He isn't bleeding internally and his white cell count is in normal range. So this whole thing continues to be a mystery. He has been started on 2 antibiotics. One is for "common" infections and the other is for "uncommon" infections. We'll see how this goes.

On a praise note, one of the other men from our church who was hospitalized yesterday has been released. But the one who was admitted before Nathan is still very critical. Please continue to be praying for these guys and their families. And for us.

We serve a Sovereign God Who knows all about this. None of this is a mystery to HIM! Thank you for your prayers and the words of encouragement that continue to come in. You are loved!

We are still resting in HIS hands!

Pray....Pray....Pray!

2008-01-24T19:55:00.000-05:00

Ken and I arrived in Orlando , FL on Tuesday (1/22) to attend the Children's Pastor's Conference and then have a few days of vacation. Wednesday We received a call from home that Nathan had begun to throw up. Nathan has history of terrible sickness for no apparent reason. Kenny, who was home with Nathan, took him to the doctor who sent them right to the ER.

After several hours, fluids and meds, Nate was sent home to recover. By Wednesday night 11 PM, he was throwing up blood. Kenny rushed him right back to the ER. He was admitted to the Pediatric floor and is currently in isolation.

Here's what we know: Nathan's fever continues to be 102.9 - 103.5. He continues to vomit but no more blood is coming up. The hospital staff is testing him for all kinds of diseases that he could have brought home from El Salvador . There are nodules on his lungs, but he does NOT have pneumonia. Blood cultures will be continued throughout the night.

Here's what we DON'T know: What is the cause. How this will be treated. How long he will be in the hospital.

Please be praying for Nathan. His spirits are very good. He's being a very good patient. He has apologized numerous times for "ruining" our vacation. I continue to tell him that he didn't ruin anything. It's what parents do!

Kenny really stepped up to the plate with this crisis! We are SOO glad he was here for Nathan!

One more thing: 2 men in our church who were also on the El Salvador trip are ALSO in the same hospital with Nathan. The doctor's are conferring to see if things are related, connected or just unbelievably coincidental!

We are resting in HIS hands.

It Takes a Village...

2008-01-08T22:41:00.000-05:00

With all the news coverage of the primaries and such Hilary Clinton is mentioned a lot. A flashback came to me this evening. Remember when her book "It Takes a Village" came out? It's message is that it takes more than one person to raise a child. It takes entire communities.

Well, I have experienced first hand the meaning of this message in the past 3 days. Ken and Cressalyn went to Pennsylvania to be with Pop and Mom. Nathan is in El Salvador. Kenny and I have been here to hold down the fort and continue working.

Carmel, our 14 week old, seems to understand that her whole family isn't together. She's taking this out on me. While she is loving and very playful, she is demonstrating her disapproval by leaving piles. Tonight while Kenny was working I was home alone with the girls. Carmel continues to pester Sasha and Sasha wasn't standing for it much. She snapped at Carmel several times yet the puppy would continue her pursuit of a live play toy.

At one point in the evening Carmel came barreling from the kitchen to the couch and pounced on ME!!! She thinks she's a lap dog! Uh uh! So I thought that letting her be outside for a while to get rid of some of her energy would be a good thing. Sasha kept watch over her from the sliding glass doorway. After a bit I decided to let Carmel return to the inside. She was laying quietly on the grass looking at the door.

I went out without the leash. I know that Carmel will go right inside once let off the lead. And that's what she did! She went full steam into the house! RIGHT THROUGH THE SCREEN DOOR!

It takes a village to raise a puppy, too. I'm not doing to well with this "single parenting" thing. My family needs to come home!

Updates

2008-01-07T17:02:00.000-05:00

First, Ken's mom is doing very well. Ken says there is marked improvement in her color and energy from yesterday. It's looking good that she will be able to come home on Tuesday.

Second, my grandmother, Grace, continues to improve! She's amazing! She was able to attend the Sunday service at the rehab center yesterday. She's doing well with physical therapy to regain strength she lost during her latest ordeal. She continues to have a positive outlook on life and her situation!

Third, Nathan relays that things are going well in El Salvador. He said he had the opportunity to do some welding! Does that frighten anyone else but me???

Thank you all for continuing to pray! We serve an incredible God Who knows everyone of our needs! He sees them in Pennsylvania, North Carolina and El Salvador! How cool is that!

Ken's Mom

2008-01-06T21:22:00.000-05:00

We received word late Saturday night that Ken's mom was being taken to the hospital. She had a heart attack. Ken and Cressalyn took off for PA today following the morning services. Mom was taken to the cath lab around 1 PM. They found a serious blockage that took 5 stints to open.

Please be praying for Ken's parents and brothers and their families. We praise the Lord for sparing Mom's life and giving Ken and Cressalyn safe travel to PA. We are trusting the Lord for His continued blessings in this crisis.

El Salvador

2008-01-04T22:13:00.000-05:00

Nathan called tonight from El Salvador! It was so great to hear his voice! He sounds wonderful!

We were concerned about his handling of his very first flight, but he did well. There was a bit of motion sickness, but no throwing up. I asked him what he had eaten today and he said for lunch he had KFC and for dinner, Pizza Hut! I cannot believe he's not sampling the local fare!

They began their time with the children and VBS this morning. Nate said the children would call his name and then rattle something in Spanish. He said he doesn't have a clue what they are saying, but loves the attention and the activity!

This afternoon the group went to the church to lay out the plans for their building project.

Nate said the temps are cool in the evenings and in the 90's during the day.

He's having a great time! Thank you for your continued prayers for the entire team! We are so proud of Nathan for following the Lord's leading in his life!

Grandma Story

2007-12-26T21:23:00.000-05:00

Grandma was moved today to rehab. The last time we thought she wasn't going to pull through an episode, once she got to rehab she surprised all of us! She just may do that again! What a strong lady!

This picture was taken Christmas Day. Mom and Dad spent time with her. Before they left the hospital Mom stopped in the foyer/entrance to the hospital where a grand piano is on display. She played Christmas music for those coming and going for a while. Dad related that there was a man who appeared homeless who had come into the hospital to escape the cold. As Mom finished and they left he told her "You have made my day!"

Sisters

2007-12-26T21:17:00.000-05:00

Sasha and Carmel are continuing to get to know one another. Their relationship continues to grow. As Carmel is getting larger and larger, Sasha is finding more places where she can escape to! Sasha can get to places that Carmel can't!

It is ever apparent that Carmel is the dominant personality. Tonight though, we saw the first signs of them actually doing something together. Granted, it's on opposing sides, but it's together!

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-24T19:43:00.000-05:00

From our family to yours!

May the joy of this season surround you!
Merry Christmas, with Love!

Grandma Story

2007-12-24T19:42:00.001-05:00

Well, Grandma is now in a regular room. She's stable and things are progressing to the next phase of recovery. There's talk of rehab, but really nothing can be done due to the holidays. Thanks for your continued prayers!

Prayer, Please

2007-12-22T17:37:00.000-05:00

Grace Story,my mother's mother,

is 95 years young.

Currently she is in ICU in North Carolina. She's had a very difficult week. She's ready to have Christmas in Heaven if that is what the Lord so chooses.

Please pray for her 6 children and their families during this season of joy that is mixed with sorrow, concern, and feelings of helplessness.

Another Update on Kenny

2007-12-12T22:22:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry I haven't posted sooner. We've been in a holding pattern of sorts with Kenny's leg. The MRI showed absolutely nothing wrong. The Orthopaedic doctor says he doesn't have a clue what's happening. He realizes Kenny has been dealing with pain, but cannot find the source. He referred Kenny for 6 weeks of physical therapy. He's had 2 weeks. The PT is to strengthen and restore muscle that has been lost due to Kenny favoring that leg for a year.

Currently Kenny is working at Chuck E. Cheese's. Some of you may recall that he worked at the one in Michigan as his first job. He loves it!

Thank you for continuing to pray for Kenny as he heals in many ways and searches for the Lord's will for his life.

Highs and Lows

2007-12-10T01:05:00.000-05:00

These past few days have been filled with highs and lows. No, I'm not talking about the weather. I'm talking about emotions, etc. Let me 'splain.

1. HIGH - Tonight was our children's Christmas musical. The kids did a great job in spite of the sound system issues, the smoke machine snafu, and the missed cues. Being the youngest group I have ever worked with I was a bit concerned with how it would all come together. But these kids are awesome! Some incredible "hidden" talent, too!

2. LOW - After 3 of the 5 of us were sick 2 weeks ago we hoped we were done for a while. Nope. Nathan is very ill. He rallied enough tonight to pull off his part in the play, but is down with a fever and serious congestion. Please be praying for him.

3. HIGH - We have a new puppy in our family!

4. LOW - We have a new messes to clean up!

5. LOW - Both of the computers we purchased less than 2 years ago have crashed! This is devastating on SO many levels!

6. HIGH - The Lord has provided a computer for use in Children's Church!

7. HIGH - We are seeing God working in the lives of friends of ours! It's so awesome to watch!

8. LOW - Friends are grieving the loss of a family member. Along with the normal grief and pain with the loss comes the knowledge that their loved one is eternally separated from God. Often times we hope that a person has "made their peace with God" prior to leaving this life. In this case...the hope isn't there. That hurts. Please be praying for this dear family. They have been through so much and need the Lord's comfort and guidance now more than ever.

God's love is real no matter how many highs or lows we go through. What a joy it is to have a personal relationship with His Son, Jesus!

It's a Girl!

2007-11-30T23:18:00.000-05:00

Ken has wanted a German Shepherd for a LONG time. We have a Lasso/Poodle mix who is wonderful, but isn't the type of dog that Ken desires. So we have been looking. Pure breds are very expensive.

Thursday, while Ken and Cressalyn were in Georgia, the boys and I stopped at a nearby animal shelter for kicks. As we approached the building we were greeted by an animal control officer who informed us that there were 2 puppies available. The shelter said they were German Shepherd/Lab mix. But in looking a bit more closely, we think Chow is involved. We looked at them both....and we took one home!

We had to wait until today at 6 PM when Ken and Cressalyn returned to share the surprise and to get a name for this precious face. Ken looked over the German names I had located on the web and couldn't find one suitable. Finally he declared her to be..."Carmel!"

Join us in welcoming this precious German Shepherd/Lab or Chow mix to the Davis family!

Pumpkins

2007-11-24T12:02:00.000-05:00

The items on the center of the plates are spice cupcakes with orange icing and a pretzel in the top. They are designed to resemble pumpkins. At least that was the plan!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-23T00:41:00.001-05:00

What a day! We have been blessed to have my parents and my brother, David, his wife, Bea, their daughter, Bethany and her husband Joel, with us for 2 nights and one FULL day! It has been a wonderful time of laughter, singing, sightseeing, serving, cooking, baking, eating, SPOON-ing and just being together! We began with the parade, of course. The morning and early afternoon was a relaxing time of enjoying each other and finishing the dinner preparations. A couple of us even worked in a pre-dinner nap!

We had the table all set and ready to go when someone mentioned that it would have been better if the table had been moved to the living room (which has limited furniture) so we would have a lot more room for the feasting. I'm not sure if it was meant to be a suggestion to be acted upon, but it was acted upon! We grabbed the table and carefully supported and lifted and turned the table fully set and partially laden with food and relocated it to the living room! Success! I wish Cressalyn had gotten it in video format, but she did manage pictures!
30 years ago when my parents went to pastor a church in Michigan, a lady there gave Mom a pilgrim couple she made for their dinner table. I grew up with this couple. Mom asked if they could come to dinner. I said, "Certainly!" What I hadn't realized was how VERY closely this couple resembles my oldest brother, Paul and his wife, Sally!

So in reality, Paul and Sally WERE with us today!

In the preparation days Mom and I had discussed the need for one or 2 turkeys for all of us. There were only 11 of us but for some reason we thought 11 needed a ton of food. We went with one turkey and we are VERY glad! Oh my what feasting we did! And will continue to do! It took us less than one hour to stuff ourselves and we still had so much left! It amazes me how we can do this year after year and yet some go year after year without a meal like this. We are TRULY grateful for the Lord's blessings!

Following dinner and cleanup we played some Euchre. The game of choice for the day was Colts vs. Falcons and wasn't on until 8PM. When the sun went down we were able to head to the Star over Roanoke. We hadn't been there yet and had been instructed that it is a must see. So we did this together. Ken had access to the church van so we were able to be together. That was wonderful! I got in and Ken asked me if I knew how to get there. I said no. He said, "me neither." This should have been a clue.

We went to the part of Roanoke where we have seen signs for the star and began following them. We felt like modern day wisemen following the star. The only problem is that we went in circles. We didn't have divine direction! After a call to Pastor Bryan, who laughed at us, we proceeded in the right direction and arrived at the star! The wind had picked up at the house, but up on the mountain, WOW! It was cold and windy! But the view was gorgeous with Roanoke lit up all before us in the valley! It was a short visit!

People started getting snap-happy with the camera! And then the cell phones began to ring! 8 of the 11 of us have Verizon phones. Yep. Fun!

We headed home and Ken decided to swing into the mall area to check out those who would be "brave" (or dumb) enough to sit out in a line waiting for stores to open in the morning. We found several at Best Buy and Circuit City. Once again someone had a brilliant idea. We went to the church, heated up water, gathered cocoa supplies and returned to the stores and offered hot chocolate to those waiting in line. What fun that was! We ran out of water at the first store so we went to IHOP and they refilled our containers for free! After we did this (and even a bit leading up to the execution of the random act of kindness) we discussed what we were actually doing. We were taking hot chocolate to people who have money to spend and are standing outside on a cold, windy night for many hours just so they can get the first items. Hmmmm. (Stay tuned. The Davis family will be following up on an idea that came out of this discussion.)

Once we returned to the house we devoured dessert and played Spoons. We actually got my mother to play with us! Once she was eliminated the game took a vicious turn. I have never seen my sister-in-law pound so hard on my oldest son like she did tonight!

The night ended with the football game. The Colts' win put a happy ending to a very special day. Family is a blessing. The older I get, the older my family gets, the more I appreciate who we have while we have them. So many have gone on to Heaven and we will feast together there! That will be the BEST Thanksgiving celebration ever!

Update on Kenny

2007-11-20T13:52:00.000-05:00

He had an MRI done yesterday. He will see the Ortho doctor tomorrow. We will have a better idea of what is happening then. We'll keep you posted!

Master Bedroom

2007-11-20T13:49:00.000-05:00

Here's picture of the master bedroom. Work still needs to be done on the dressers so those photos will come later.

Research

2007-11-16T11:10:00.000-05:00

I have been aggressively searching for ancestoral information for my family and Ken's. Some information is very easy to find, but other info is very difficult! I was able to go to NC Tuesday of this week with my mother to check some records in Yadkinville. We looked at a lot of records and found it VERY interesting! I am looking forward to doing some more hands-on research in Pennsylvania sometime soon. Both my family and Ken's have roots all over that state!

One of the things that I have discovered that makes me sad is that both our families were slave owners at one time. I guess that shouldn't surprise me considering the time, era, and the traditions of the life. But I had hoped that no one had participated in that. There is evidence that one of the patriarchs who owned slaves struggled greatly with the morality of the issue. It's written that he owned many more than he could profitably afford and NEVER sold any. I do not know if he bought any, but he didn't sell them. I do wonder if he would purchase them so that he would assure their safety and good treatment. It all sends various emotions through my heart.

One of these days I will have a complete listing of all our ancestors, good and bad. This process is very enjoyable for me and actually I find it therapeutic! You should try it! The internet is a great source of information, but you have to be careful to verify the sources! Have fun finding out who you are connected to!

More Painting

2007-11-07T23:22:00.000-05:00

Today I was able to finally get the master bedroom painted. It's color is now "Desert Castle" which should lead you to think of the color of sand. I think it look really nice! It will look better once I get the dressers painted black...and get the curtains hung...and the pictures frames I want...and the pictures hung. Then it should be ALL done! Only 2 weeks to finish this! My family is coming for Thanksgiving!

I have decided the master bathroom will be done in shells. I have enough of the room paint so that I can carry that into the bath. The tiles on the floor have the color in them so it's a perfect match! If I can't have the beach in my back yard, I'm gonna have it in my bathroom!

As I was painting today I was telling the Lord that I could really use some encouragement. Life has been a bit stressful with getting Kenny taken care of, the vehicles maintained...again, picking up the pieces of a 15 year old heart....you know....LIFE! So my family went off to church tonight for the Wednesday activities. I settled on the sofa for a break in the painting. The doorbell rang and a lady from church dropped by to just chat...and to bring me a token of encouragement! How cool is God???? I told her that I had spoken to God today about needing a lift and He sent her!

God is so good! He knows every need. He's so cool!

Tipping

2007-10-28T21:52:00.000-04:00

Tipping at a restaurant can sometimes be a stressful duty. Those not really good at percentages may struggle to come up with the exact amount. The days of the 10% tip are long gone but we aren't really always comfortable with a 20% tip. For some it's "too much." So for the most part the going rate is 18%.

For me 10% is very easy to figure. 20% is just fine, too. But this 18% is a bit foreign to me. So when I am in charge of the tip I tend to go on the higher side for the sake of clarity.

But then you have to deal with the situations where the service wasn't good enough to merit a full 18% let alone 20%. If it's a restaurant that you have the possiblity of returning to it is kind of sticky to not give a full percentage of tip. We have all known of those servers who DEFINITELY remember who "stiffed" them. I really don't want to purposefully stiff someone I may run into again.

Besides, we are supposed to be Jesus with skin on, right? So in spite of the service I tend to go ahead and give the appropriate tip.

Tonight was no exception. Today we were given a gift card for Applebee's. Our day was a full one as usual and the evening held a meeting following service. We were later than normal getting home and all of us were too pooped to cook anything. So we did the "Carside to Go" and ordered out. Nate and I went to pick it up. We pulled in and the lady came right out with our order. I handed her the gift card and some additional cash to cover the bill. I told her to keep the $3 extra as her tip. We pulled off.

Nathan frantically asked me what I had just done! I told him I gave her a tip. He askedhow come so much? Then it dawned on me.

$42 order

$30 Giftcard

$25 Cash

I gave her a $13 tip!!!! And all she did was deliver it to my car! No drinks, no appetizers, no refills, no clearing of dishes!

Nathan laughed all the way home!! He was convinced his father would have a coronary. But when I explained everything, he was fine. After all, every bit of that money had been given to us for Pastor Appreciation. So tonight I practiced the "Pay It Forward" principle. Maybe she needed a few extra dollars tonight. Maybe the Lord will prompt her to pay it forward to someone else. Maybe I had better be supervised when figuring a tip!

Guess What I Got To Do!!!!

2007-10-22T20:40:00.000-04:00

History in the making!

In all the years of singing with my parents, Dad and I have never sung a duet....until tonight!

The Cutest Benjamin We Know!

2007-10-19T19:02:00.001-04:00

Benjamin and Pastor Ken....fighting over Cressalyn!

Answers to Prayer

2007-10-19T16:38:00.000-04:00

1. My mother is doing much better. She's still on meds, but she sounds so much improved. Continue to pray as she and my dad will be here as singers for our revival beginning Sunday.

2. Kenny has seen a specialist. He will be having an ultrasound and bone scan on his leg Oct. 30. They are looking for the blood clots that the doctor believes are present. If this is true, Kenny will need to have surgery. Please continue praying for pain relief, results of the tests and for comfort for Kenny and his family. I am so glad that we are closer for this round of tests! Last year was so hard to be 20 hours away! This time, I will be there!

3. Nathan has chosen a job! He will begin training at Sears on Tuesday. He is so excited! After pounding the pavement for a month he had 2 jobs to choose from, and now has also been having to say no to others who are calling about his applications! God is so good!

One Answer...Sort of!

2007-10-17T00:07:00.000-04:00

Well, Nathan had 2 interviews today. Both were second interviews. Both have the same pay rate. Both went VERY well. Both are close to home. Both are good, strong, nationally known companies.

One has offered him a job...pending the drug test results. He's already filled out the post-offer paperwork. The other will call him in a day or two once they have time to think and talk about hiring Nate.

So now Nathan has a dilema. Should he have 2 jobs to choose from, which one should he choose? See if you can help.

Company A = Seasonal help, but potential to be permanent following the holidays. Would be running the cash register primarily. Employee discount would be awesome! Says there shouldn't be a problem with Nathan not working Sundays. Allows him the time off for SetApart and El Salvador trips.

Combany B = Not seasonal, permanent. Is not allowed to run the cash register until he's 18. Would be stocking shelves, cleaning, etc. for the most part. Has the potential to be stock items that would be "questionable" in content. Employee discount would be awesome! There is NO problem with him not working Sundays. Allows him the time off for SetApart and El Salvador trips.

Lend us your ideas, thoughts.

Prayer Requests

2007-10-16T00:28:00.000-04:00

I wanted to share a few requests that are heavy on my heart at this time.

1. My mother has bronchits. She's begun her second round of antibiotics. As she gets older she doesn't recover like she did before. They are our singers for our revival next week. Pray for healing for her.

2. Kenny is dealing with severe pain in his legs. His arches are collapsing as well. We are trying to get him into a specialist but schedules are tight. Pray for the pain to be reduced and for protection from further damage as he continues to function without seeing the doctor.

3. Nathan has been applying for jobs for 4 weeks. He's been turned down several times and ignored others. Tuesday, Oct. 16, he has 2 second interviews. Pray that he will be offered one of them or another one. He really is feeling the pressure to begin earning money for college.

Thank you for joining Ken and I in lifting these dear ones to the Throne of Grace! God can do all that we ask!

Corn Maze and Other Fun

2007-10-14T22:25:00.000-04:00

Saturday we had 56 parents and children gather for a wonderful time of fun at Layman Family Farm. The day was absolutely gorgeous! In spite of the drought which left the corn not quite as tall as previous years, and the pumpkins in very short supply, fun was had by all!

Family

2007-10-11T17:35:00.000-04:00

Monday the kids and I headed to the DC area for some quick family time with the Sheets family. David, my brother, had planned a day of sightseeing and touring for Tuesday! 15 people & 4 vehicles.

We started in Virginia and visited the Great Falls on the Potomac River,
then took a ferry across a river, (we took turns driving Bea's Mini Cooper!)
had lunch at a restaurant...I think in Maryland..., then drove to Antietam Battlefield,

stopped at a General Store, enjoyed ice cream at Nutter's, sang to the ladies who served us, headed on to West Virginia to Harper's Ferry,

walked the trestle across the river, (beware of the SPIDERS!!!!!)sat on the curbs and had snacks from the trunk of one of the cars, convinced a policeman that we were in fact nice and descent people enjoying a snack before proceeding on back to David and Bea's. Whew!

What a day! What memories! What a family!

The End

Worry...Terror...Concern....Anger

2007-10-05T23:26:00.000-04:00

Today I experienced some very terrifying feelings.

Friday was going along very nicely. Many things were getting accomplished. Ken and I decided to run some errands for church stuff. Nathan and Cressalyn were in our den with their youth pastor, Bryan, watching a video. We told them we'd be back.

After a couple stops we realized we were getting hungry and called the house to have the kids begin dinner. No answer. The machine picked up. Well, they could be down in the basement and didn't get to the phone. They'll call right back.

Nope.

I called again. Got the machine...again. Told the dog to pick up the phone. She didn't.

As I waited in the truck at Staples while Ken made one last stop, I began to get very worried. See, my mind plays these nasty tricks on me and I go down the worse case scenario road to the extreme.

I called our Senior Pastor to get Pastor Bryan's cell phone number. I called Bryan. No answer. Great. Now my mind is picturing the three of them bound and gagged in the basement...or worse. I left a message.

We went quickly back to the church and drove past the youth house (which has no phone) to see if they might be there. Bryan's truck was in the parking lot. Youth house was dark. Ken parked in front of the church and went to check the church for the kids. I headed for the house. Sasha met me at the door, but didn't have any news for me. There was no one there. There were no notes.

Ken and I went back across the parking lot to the youth house to verify that it was locked. Yes. Now, I go from terror and worry to anger. These 2 have gotten me ALL worked up! I am going to kick some teenage b....!!! And THEN I will have words for the youth pastor!

So, Ken and I went in the house discussing punishments for not notifying us of their departure. Ken convinced me that it would be in everyone's best interest if HE handled the youth pastor and I handled the kids. We stood in the kitchen talking things through.

Then...it happened. Somewhere in the darkest places of my empty head, a light bulb was turned on.

Today was Friday. At 3:45 PM Nathan and Cressalyn were going with Pastor Bryan and several other youth to make a video for the 14th.

Duh.

Repentance, shame, humility, all flooded over me. We had in fact authorized this outing.

Duh.

Cressalyn's Room

2007-09-23T22:00:00.000-04:00

It's finally finished. We got the curtains today and finished the look. What do you think?

Indy

2007-09-22T23:37:00.000-04:00

The Spiritual Formation Department of the Wesleyan Church invited many people from across the country and denomination to HQ for some discussion and feedback. What a wonderful time of connecting and reconnecting! Ken and I are greatly encouraged that HQ leadership is asking the opinions of those who are in the trenches. It was great to hear the heart of Jim and Colleen. (Scott shared, too, but to the youth-type people.) Dr. Wilson also shared encouraging words with us. What a blessing he is! He will be greatly missed!

Anyway, we decided to drive instead of flying Ken out due to the cost of flying. Google told us the trip there would take only 8.5 hours. Yeah, right. It took us 10.5 hours! Others who left from our area got there in 8.5 hours. Why is it that what takes others 8.5 or 9 or 10 hours to do takes the Davises 2 hours longer? Frustrating!

Ken looked at the atlas that we purchased on the way through West Virginia to see which route would be best for the return trip. He chose heading south into Kentucky and catching 64 east and so on. Great! This only added 100 MILES to the trip AND still took us 10.5 hours! UGH!

We got home and are glad we don't have to do another LONG trip in the near future. While we enjoy trips and driving, we are getting tired of whirlwind type trips. We left Wed. PM and returned Friday PM. Over 1000 miles.

While at the Combine we were blessed with a "concert" by 321Improv, a comedy trio who will be at Set Apart in December. It was good to laugh! The video is their "Mr. Know-It-All" response to Stevan's question "Where do babies come from?"

My parents came up from NC to be with Nate and Cressalyn while we were gone. They have been a huge help in finishing details of the settling in process. Dad is the master shelf hanger and help the kids with their display shelving in their rooms. Mom washed windows (among many other things)! How cool is that?? It is so nice to be closer to them and know that we can assist each other as the need arises.

No means NO!

2007-09-11T22:15:00.000-04:00

"Good grief!" As Charlie Brown would say. How many times do I have to say, "No?"

Over the years as a mother of 3 I have had MANY days where that word has been the only one in my vocabulary. Today, though, it's use had nothing to do with my children.

Since moving to Roanoke we have been able to get Verizon DSL. Yay! Therefore, I needed to cancel our account with PeoplePC who have been wonderfully faithful over the past 2 years. I thanked the nice man for their service and asked to have our account cancelled. "No problem," he says and then launches into a list of offers he can give me. 1. Give me 4 additional months for $4.95 to keep PeoplePC as a "backup" for my new provider. No. 2. Keep my PeoplePC email address for $1.98 per month "so you don't lose your contacts." No. 3. This one I can't even remember because my frustration level blocked my memory! NO!

So the next phone call is to cancel a magazine subscription that we had for one year. We signed up for an offer for this mag for $2 and don't want to pay the annual $54 fee. This time I don't get a person. I get an automated machine. This female voice wants to know my phone number so she can "look up" my account. I give her the one from NY. Obviously, right? That's where we were when we signed up. No. I hang up and call back this time using the OTHER number we had in NY. No. Neither number accesses our account. Ok. "I'll will have to look up your account using your credit card." Great. Since ordering this magazine I have lost my debit card TWICE! I have no idea what that number would be! Ugh! So at the point where she says, "Please say the numbers listed on your credit card," I have nothing to say but, "I don't know." This is not in her vocabulary. She asks me to repeat the numbers on my credit card. "I do not know!" Hers is quite the response - "I'm sorry I am having so much trouble with this." I'm thinking I'm so glad she thinks SHE's the one with the problem! She moves on to the zip code. That I know. So we are able to proceed with the reason for my call....cancelling my subscription. She's "happy" to process this for me but would like to offer me 4 months of Reader's Digest for a $1 processing fee. No. She apologizes that I am cancelling my subscription and offers further assistance. My response? No.

Whew! Ok. That was one magazine. I get the number for the other magazine. Yes, it's a different number. BUT IT'S THE SAME FEMALE VOICE ON THE AUTOMATED MACHINE! AARGH! So we go through THE ENTIRE process again! No kidding! Only THIS time she offers me a subscription to a Jumbo Crossword Book AND Diabetic Cooking Magazine for only $2! Whoo hoooo! NO!

It's with fear and trembling that I called the final number that needed to cancelled. In NY we had Dish Network like in Michigan and now in VA. But in the area we were in we couldn't get "local" channels which were actually New York City stations. So Dish offered us Distance Local Channels through another company. For nearly 2 years we had NO CLUE as to our weather forecast but we knew Atlanta's AND San Francisco's! Yay!

So I make the final call. "I need to cancel my account." Immediately the lady, Amy, replies, "No problem." After a few keystrokes...."I have cancelled your account. In a 1-2 business days our accounting department will process any refund you have coming to you." WHAT???? Hot diggity dog!

Why can't all phone calls go that well?

It Has Been Found!

2007-09-10T21:05:00.000-04:00

The can opener has been located! Yay!!

It's been a productive day. We found the local Christian Book Store. And the Christmas musical has been chosen! Let the work (and fun!) begin!

I'd like to have you join us in praying for my mother. She has had a lens replaced in her eye and now has developed a "membrane" behind it that is affecting her vision. She is told that this very fixable and for that we are grateful! But at the same time we are concerned about further deterioration or potential problems she may find as a result of using one eye.

God is faithful!

Can Opener Alternative

2007-09-08T20:09:00.000-04:00

Nope. Still can't find it. Nope. It's not still on the counter in NY. Yes. I DID unmount from the cabinet.
I splurged on a handheld at WalMart...$1.94. It's in the trash already.

I Will Not Complain

2007-09-07T13:14:00.000-04:00

Nope. Not gonna do it. Complaining isn't my style. I'm not pleased when others complain and therefore I will not complain myself.

Whining....that's another story. I WILL whine as I feel it is necessary. So, let the whining begin!

1. I still can't find my can opener!!!!!

2. 2% Milk is $4.15 per gallon at Kroger!!!!

3. There is cardboard still in my house!

4. It is HOT outside!

Ok. There. Not too long of a list, but enough that keeps me a tad on edge. But lest I leave anyone thinking I am truely unhappy with my current situation...let me share some of the very positive elements.

1. DSL!!!!!!!

2. I found full-sized loaves of bread at Kroger for 25 cents!!!!

3. My office is set up, my bedroom is nearly done, and we now have our TV back on!!!!

4. I have central air in my house!!!

So you see, it's not all fun, but there is so much more that is fantastic! And get this! The doorbell rang this morning. A precious couple were there with a basket FULL of fresh ham biscuits for breakfast! How cool is that?????

God is so good!

We Have Arrived!

2007-09-05T19:22:00.001-04:00

Ok. We are now in Roanoke. The trip was a good, safe one, but was tiring none the less. We were met with an incredible group of people who unloaded the 2 trucks in 2 hours! Even nearly 3 year old Benjamin helped!

Tuesday I was able to set up what I have been waiting and longing for....DSL!!!!!!!!!!! It was all working great and so I placed an order online for Pizza Hut and 30 minutes later.....we had our first delivery in 2 years! Whoo hooo! BUT......then....disaster struck. The DSL no longer was functioning. Ken spent 2 hours on the phone with Verizon last night and got nowhere. I spent 2 hours this afternoon on the phone with Verizon and got a little further than nowhere. I have an appointment in the morning with Verizon who will be calling me back...a superviaor this time...and hopefully we can get everything worked out. We think it is their modem. We aren't certain, though.

Nathan and I enjoyed our first helping of fried okra for lunch today! My mom and dad supplied our freezer with some! What a treat!

The kids have done well at setting up their rooms. Mine still needs work. In fact, the whole place needs work. We have discovered several things: 1) this house is twice as long as the previous one, thereby taking longer to reach the ringing phone. 2) Sasha must be nervous about us moving again, or something...she's following me EVERYWHERE! 3) The can opener must be placed in a clearly marked box or hand carried during a move. 4) The Davis Family owns WAY to many books!

Well, hopefully soon we will have some pictures to share. I do know where my camera is, but right now the only computer connected to the internet is Ken's office one. So be patient, and check back often. Continue praying as we adjust to our new surroundings.

2007-08-31T17:43:00.000-04:00

This is the new house!

I asked my parents to keep their eyes open for a dining room set for us. The Lord led them right to this one! Mom and Dad delivered it this week! Thank you!!!!!!

The dishes in this aren't mine. But Mom gave me some, too! I'm so excited!