Surviving the Winter

Hi Everyone, It's been a few months since my last post. We've made it through January. Now, I think I can make it. Spring is just around the corner. My health is doing okay. My Afib is doing much better then it was in October and November. Only two episodes since December 5th. They've found a new problem with my ol' ticker now though. I have pre atrial contractions. It feels like a missed beat. They say it is completely benign. But it don't feel good at all. It really weighs heavy on my nerves. But with God's help, I can deal it.
I've been enjoying my new grandson, Micah. He is so handsome!!!! Now I'm waiting for my next grandbaby to come in late July. Basketball season has started for the two older boys. They seem to really enjoy themselves. Everytime there is a threat of snowy weather, I'll go and spend the night with my two granddaughters. They only live a mile from my job. That makes it better for me in driving on snow and ice. Plus, I get to spend time with the girls. I was blessed with a trip to Kentucky a couple of weeks ago. I got the witness the baptizing of a new sister while down there. I really enjoy visiting with brethren from other parts. It is so amazing when you hear this is your brother or sister in Christ and boom - - -there is an automatic love in your heart for that person. I love being apart of the family of God. Nothing like it!!!!!! I look forward to the day when I will meet all my brethren.
I've got several cakes in the next few months. 3 birthday cakes, 400 cupcakes, and 2 wedding cakes. Oh boy, looks like someones going to be doing a lot of baking for me - - - -(Leah and Krissy) lol
I hope everyone has a blessed day in the Lord tomorrow. Love ya all!!!!!

The Time of Year I Dread!!!

Hi everyone, Well, it's coming up on the anniversary of my Ralphie's death. Next Saturday will be 7 years since he went to sleep. It's not easier. Time has not healed the womb. I can't even write this without crying. It's always been a very emotional time of year for me. The only thing that helps is God's love, His comfort and knowing that He loves me and helps me through my trials, my problems, my sicknesses and my grief. My life on earth is not as bad as I make it sound. I honestly have a good life. My children, (all 6 of them) are the best. They love me and are not afraid to openly show it to me or the world. And, they are walking the faith with me and serving our God together. My grandchildren - oh my precious babies. What else could be said but truly a gracious gift from God. My Southport Brethren, who have laughed with me, cried with me, listened to me and is there at a moments request from me. My world wide Brethren who might hear from me on this blog or by word of mouth from those of you who blog. The millions of prayers that have gone up in my behalf from all my brethren. I may be poor according to this world's standards, but I am far richer according to the standard of God, than the richest person that has or will ever walk the face of this earth. So blessed I am. And with God's help, I will face this time of year, each year, until Jesus' return or I am permitted to go into my sleep once my race is won. I want to be a productive daughter for God. So however many days I have left, I pray that I can walk them in His light and to His glory.

To all the wives who might read this blog, take this bit of advice. Cling to your husbands, treasure them, listen to them, even when it doesn't interest you with their sports or hunting talk. Or even when you would rather not listen to what happened at work today. Baby them every once in a while. It's okay, their worth it. Keep their laundry up. Cook their favorite meals a little more often. Go to the Bass Pro Shop with them. Learn the game of football and watch it with them. Read the scriptures with them. Ask them to help you understand what you read. And most of all talk, talk, talk!!! Communication in a hugh key. I guess this is what I miss most of all. Ralphie and I did a lot of just talking. Walk the faith together. But, if by chance he is not walking with you, don't give up. Keep encouraging and living the faith in front of him. Keep God close and very active in your life. I was suppose to grow old with my husband. But, God's plan was different. So, don't take for granted that he'll be there tomorrow. February 9, 2002, Ralphie was fine. February 10th, he got sick. October 24, 2002 at 4:15 am he took his last breath. We were blessed to at least spend the last few weeks of his life enjoying one another as if tomorrow would never come. And that tomorrow came way to soon for me. But, I will face each day remembering him and not wishing him back, for that would be selfish of me. But celebrating his life and remembering the things that we did together and learned together. Your husband is just a precious as your children and grandchildren. Take good care of them. This is what God expects of his married daughters.

Sorry this is so long, but it helps me to deal with it and plus I just can't seem to write a brief short blog - it always ends up in a book!!

Love you all!!