Sunday, May 9

Hiking on Blodgett Trail

We went for a hike today on Blodgett Trail. From the moment we left the trailhead, the steep path took my breathe away. I didn't think I would make it far.

Steve asked if we should turn back. I shook my head no and kept walking. As I took more steps I could hear Bob and Jillian from the Biggest Loser. "Dig deeper" and "You can do it".

We made it about half way to the summit of Blodgett Peak (9,400 feet) and enjoyed the most beautiful view of Colorado Springs.

It was well worth the effort!

Saturday, May 8

Happy Mother's Day

I love you Mom and I'm thankful for the wonderful Mother you are. You have always been there for me, you love me unconditionally and you pray for me.

I am so thankful you took me to church as a young child and taught me about Jesus. My relationship with Him today is founded on those teachings.

It's so wonderful to be back home and spend time with you and Dad. I cherish the memories of our time together.

Many blessings to you on your special day.

Happy Mother's Day!

Tuesday, May 4

"Here I Am, Lord Send Me"

A few months ago I joined a writers critique group. The leaders, Scoti and Beth, are published authors and awesome ladies. They share their time and expertise and help us become better writers.

At the last critique meeting, Beth mentioned finding a Scripture verse or inspirational quote as a daily reminder of my passion for writing. I actually have a song that describes my heart perfectly. I heard it one night after a Springs Writers meeting and cried all the way home.

"Here I am, Lord send me."
Isaiah 6:8

Sometimes Your calling, comes in dreams
Sometimes it comes in the Spirit's breeze
You reach for the deepest hope in me
And call out for the things of eternity

But I'm a man, of dust and stains,
You move in me, so I can say

Chorus
Here I am, Lord send me
All of my life, I make an offering,
Here I am, Lord send me
Somehow my story is a part of Your plan,
Here I am

When setbacks and failures, and upset plans
Test my faith and leave me with empty hands
Are You not the closest when it's hardest to stand
I know that You will finish what You began

And these broken parts You will redeem
Become the song that I can sing

Chorus
Here I am, Lord send me
All of my life, I make an offering,
Here I am, Lord send me
Somehow my story is a part of Your plan,
Here I am

Overwhelmed by the thought of my weakness
And the fear that I'll fail You in the end
In this mess, I'm just one of the pieces,
I can't put this together but You can

Chorus
Here I am, Lord send me
All of my life, I make an offering,
Here I am, Lord send me
Somehow my story is a part of Your plan,
Here I am

Here I Am, all my life an offering to You, to You
Somehow my story is a part of Your plan
Here I am


Sunday, May 2

Blessed with a Car for One Dollar


Recently Steve bought this car from a co-worker for one dollar. He spent about $150 to replace parts and has a great running car.

We've cut our fuel bill in half and we are so thrilled. What a blessing!

UPDATE on 5/3/10: Today at work the former owner gave Steve a set of new brakes for this car. Wow! Thank you God. You always provide!

Saturday, May 1

Unfailing God

Sunday, April 11

Memory Book

A family reunion last year sparked an interest to know more about my dad's ancestry.

So for the last six months we've been digging into the family tree and found some interesting stories and facts.

Then my dad had a conversation recently with his sister, my aunt Karen, about writing down their childhood memories. Within a few weeks, Dad had written over 50 pages of memories on a yellow legal pad.

As I typed his words, I learned things about him I never knew. His memory book will certainly be a blessing to our family members and will be passed down through generations.

Thanks Dad for taking the time to put your stories and memories on paper to share with us!

I Love Saving Money!

I found several bargains while grocery shopping yesterday and saved $15.40 with coupons. My total saving so far this month is $42.20. Awesome!

The new coupon system is working great. There were several good buys yesterday that I couldn't pass up. With the coupon binder system, I located the appropriate coupon very quickly.

It's amazing what a wonderful feeling it is to save money. My only regret is that I didn't start using this system sooner!