Hello everyone! I hope you are all doing well! Our computer has been on the blink and not much blogging has been going on here! We have also been busy with office work as well as getting ready for school and our last home visit for the adoption in a couple of weeks. So ... I don't know how much blogging I will be doing in the next couple of weeks. I will do my best. God has been very good to us and helped us in so many ways. Through all this busyness may we be truly thankful and humble and keep Christ first always. Blessings to all!! :)

I had this posted and do not know how it got back to a draft! Oh Lucy!!

Book Meme

Barb the evil genius has tagged me for this little questionnaire.

1. One book that changed your life: The Bible has definitely transformed me in a most miraculous way and will continue to change me throughout my life. I would be totally lost without it. Wouldn't we all be lost? Besides the Bible, I would have to say that the one life-changing book would be For Better or Best, Understand Your Man by Gary Smalley. Although I do not agree with some of his theology, I did learn to apply a few life-changing ideas which helped me see my husband in a much different way. Now our pastor would probably say that this is a "how to book", but it still has some value in it. It helped me to appreciate my husband and understand why he may think and do things differently than me.

2. One book that you ha’ve read more than once: This book would have to be Gone With the Wind which I read two or three times back in high school.

3. One book you woul’d want on a desert island: Besides my Bible, I would want to have Love Lucy, an autobiography of Lucille Ball or a good biography of Lucy.

4. One book that made you laugh: It was a book about Lucy.


5. One book that made you cry: The book, The Other Side of the Mountain, written about Jill Kinmont who was an Olympic skier from the '50s, was definitely a good book but a tear jerker.

6. One book that you wish had been written: I wish there would be a fast reading book (and not too lengthy) about time management. I know that there are books on this subject. I just need a little one with a few good tips.

7. One book that you wish had never been written: This would have to be the first book of the Left Behind series, Left Behind. This is a book (and all its sequels) that has brought and will continue to bring mass confusion about the end times.

8. The book you are currently reading: I am currently reading two books at the time so I must mention them both. One is The Book of Concord, and the other is Answer to Anxiety by Herman Glockel. The latter is a book I wrote a post on a few months ago.

9. One book you ha’ve been meaning to read: Actually I have "been meaning to read" an A Beka history book for quite some time now to brush up on my history a little more.

10. Now tag five people:
Scottius Maximus, Favorite Apron

After Barb the evil genious' comment on my previous post about faith and education, I thought I should clarify myself. She brought up some great points. I apologize if I gave anyone the wrong impression. I believe that parents should instill in their children but not cram down their throats the importance of having a solid faith in Christ, relying upon His Word daily, and seeking His will daily through prayer so that they will discover their interests and God-given talents, pursue their goals, and be able to support themselves. This should be for both girls and boys. Our children need to be strong and able to survive in this world spiritually, physically, mentally, emotionally, and educationally. It doesn't mean that we should just focus on the spiritual side and let the educational side or other parts of their lives just blow off into the wind. There has to be balance.

My main intention for posting Martin Luther's comment was to offer encouragement to other parents, particularly home-schooling parents (All parents teach though.). As a home-schooling mom I go through my times when I doubt that I am doing a good job as our children's teacher. As with all issues, I just have to pray for God's grace, truth, wisdom, and discernment. I know that this is the path that our family has chosen, and we believe that it is the right choice. And though I must always strive to teach all the necessary subjects and skills, teaching our children about Christ is the top priority.
But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

I hope that I have expressed my points more clearly!! :)

Another Luther Saying ...

"The truth is mightier than eloquence, the Spirit greater than the genius, faith more than education."

To me this is very encouraging as a home-schooling mother, but I would think it would be encouraging for all parents. The greatest gift we can give our children is the gift of faith. With the help of Christ, we must give them a good, solid foundation in Jesus Christ first and foremost for they need to know how to survive in this land as Pilgrims. We Christians are but strangers in this world; this is not our home. Our children do need education, but above all else they, like us, need truth, wisdom, discernment, strength, and grace from God's Word to get them home safely to heaven.

Abide With Me

May these last three verses of the hymn, Abide With Me,
comfort you and give you hope that our dear Shepherd,
Jesus, is lovingly holding you in His arms and will
NEVER leave you or forsake you.   He gives an
EVERLASTING peace that NO other person or thing of
this world can give.


     6. I need Thy presence every passing hour;
     What but Thy grace can foil the Tempter's power?
     Who like Thyself my guide and stay can be?
     Through cloud and sunshine, oh, abide with me!

     7. I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless;
     Ills have no weight and tears no bitterness.
     Where is death's sting? where, grave, thy victory?
     I triumph still if Thou abide with me.

     8. Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes,
     Shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies.
     Heaven's morning breaks, and earth's vain shadows flee;
     In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me!

The Living Word

From Martin Luther's Little Instruction Book: "The Bible is alive, it speaks to me; it has feet, it runs after me; it has hands, it lays hold of me."

One Day at a Time

One of the biggest lessons that I have had to learn this past year is to
take life one day at a time. Now I have always known that, but somehow
God has had to wack me over the head with His frying pan to make it
hit home!!!! Being a teacher, I have always tried to be a planner and
plan in advance. Now, there is nothing wrong with planning. Just don't
try to get ahead of God. This poem that I am about to share with you
fellow bloggers was given to me by my husband's business partner,
and Matthew 6:25-34 comes to my mind when I read this poem.

One Day at a Time

There are two days in every week about which you should not
worry, two days which should be kept free from fear and apprehension.

One of these days is yesterday with its mistakes and cares, its faults
(better known as sins) and blunders, its aches and pains. Yesterday
has passed forever beyond our control.

All the money in the world cannot bring back yesterday. We cannot
undo a single act we performed: we cannot erase a single word we
said. Yesterday is gone.

The other day we should not worry about is tomorrow with its
possible adversities, its burdens, its large promise and poor
performance.

Tomorrow's sun will rise, either in splendor or behind a mask
of clouds-but it will rise. Until it does we have no stake in
tomorrow, for it is yet unborn.

This leaves only one day-today. Any person can fight the battles
of just one day. It is only when you and I add the burdens of
these two awful eternities-yesterday and tomorrow- that we break down.

It is not the experience of today that drives men mad-it is remorse
or bitterness for something that happened yesterday and the dread
of what tomorrow may bring.

Let us therefore, live but one day at a time. Author Unknown

25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life^[b]?

28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

Are You Thankful for Your Spouse?

When is the last time you told your spouse thank you for something or for doing something for you? Are you truly thankful for him or her, or are you always thinking of things that disturb you about him or her? Do you encourage him or her? If we are all truly honest with ourselves, we can most likely think of a time or period of time when we have all focused more on the faults of our spouses than our own faults, rather sins. But then we need to look at ourselves. Have we been treating our spouse with unconditional love and respect? One of the many things that I have learned from our two pastors is that before I start pointing the finger at my spouse or anyone else for that matter, I need to look at my own sins first. There is a time for lovingly expressing my hurts and frustrations with my spouse, don't get me wrong. However, I really need to reflect upon my thoughts, attitudes, and actions and see if I am being a blessing or a disturbance to my spouse or whomever in my life. Believe me, I will be the first one to tell you that I am a selfish human being and can be really good about putting my needs first. I am just thankful that my Scottius is gracious and forgiving. Even though it has been many years since our troubles, I still remember so vividly HOW HARD it was without him and HOW BLESSED I am to have him! I think we both learned from those days the hard way how lonely life was without each other. Thanks to God we have each other! What a real blessing that is!! :)


⁴Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! ⁵Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. ⁶Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ⁷And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

⁸Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ⁹Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Is That You Bob?

I just had to post this cartoon for my blog! It seems that this is a picture of a cat in the frying pan! It reminds me of Sam, our dog, who does not like this one cat, Bob, roaming around in our neighborhood! If Sam could talk or do a few more tasks such as using frying pans then uh oh, we
would be in trouble! We would have to put out a bulletin alert for all cats, bunnies, and squirrels!!

Blueberries for Sal and the Scottius Maximus family

As a kid, I loved this book! Of course, I loved blueberries and still do! Tomorrow we will go to a little community to pick up our annual order of 50 pounds of blueberries. This supply will only last us until about February or March! I like to eat mine frozen with just a little bit of splenda or powdered sugar sprinkled on top if needed. They are one of the best fruits one can ever eat!

You Have to Love This Comeback!

I received this in an e-mail and thought it would be good to share on my blog.

A woman writes:
My son serves in the military. He is still stateside right now. He called me yesterday to let me know how warm and welcoming people were to him, and his troops, everywhere he goes, telling me how people shake their hands, and thank them for being willing to serve, and fight, for not only our own freedoms but so that others may have them also. But he also told me about an incident in the grocery store he stopped at yesterday, on his way home from the base. He said that ahead of several people in front of him stood a woman dressed in a burkha. He said when she got to the cashier she loudly remarked about the U.S. flag lapel pin the cashier wore on her smock. The cashier reached up and touched the pin, and said proudly, "Yes, I always wear it and I probably always will." The woman in the burkha then asked the cashier when she was going to stop bombing her countrymen, explaining that she was Iraqi.

A gentleman standing behind my son stepped forward, putting his arm around my son's shoulders, and nodding towards my son, said in a calm and gentle voice to the Iraqi woman: "Lady, hundreds of thousands of men and women like this young man have fought and died so that YOU could stand here, in MY country and accuse a check-out cashier of bombing YOUR countrymen. It is my belief that had you been this outspoken in YOUR own country, we wouldn't need to be there today. But, hey, if you have now learned how to speak out so loudly and clearly, I'll gladly buy you a ticket and pay your way back to Iraq so you can straighten out the mess in YOUR country that you are obviously here in MY country to avoid." Everyone within hearing distance cheered!

I just had to post this picture after Scottius Maximus previously posted another Gary Larson cartoon! We have always loved this cartoon since we have had A LOT of experiences with wiener dogs! If you have had one or know of someone who does have one then you will understand this cartoon!

Lutheran Lucy Becomes a Cowgirl?

Well, it was good to go on vacation to see my family out West and to also go with our son on our church youth group trip, but it is so nice to be back home and settled in once again with my dear Scottius. There were a lot of highlights to our trip, but one in particular was horseback riding. I now own cowgirl boots which is a thrill! (I do need to break them in just a little bit though! :) ) Anyway, I was able to go horseback riding a couple of times which makes my grand total of going about five or six times. (It helped that my sister-in-law gave me a little riding lesson the week before.) This last time of riding on a trail with our youth group was probably the most relaxing to me. Of course, I wasn't too thrilled when Lady, my horse, would try to go too far to the sides of the trail which allowed me the thrill of brushing against trees and bushes! Once I learned how to keep her from doing that she and I did just fine. I am just thankful that I didn't brush against any poison ivy. I don't need any skin problems at the moment! :) When do I ever need poison ivy or skin problems though? Anyway, I even trotted a little which is a big step for me! I don't know if I will ever be galloping material or become a full-blooded cowgirl though!! :)

How Many of These Can You Answer Correctly?

This is a fun quiz that our son got in an e-mail recently. I
hope you will take it just to see how observant you really
are. Amazingly I scored better than I thought I would;
however, I missed a couple of really obvious ones! Oh well!


QUIZ:
This is based on U.S. info, so use all lobes of your brain.
This can be more difficult than it looks - it just shows
how little most of us really see!

There are 25 questions about things we see every day
or have known about all our lives. How many can you
get right? These little simple questions are harder than
you think-- it just shows you how little we pay
attention to the common place things of life.

Put your thinking caps on. No cheating! No looking
around! No getting out of your chair! No using
anything on or in your desk or computer! Can you
beat 20?? (The average is 7) Write down your
answers as you go. Check answers (on the bottom),
AFTER completing all the questions.

LET'S JUST SEE HOW OBSERVANT YOU REALLY
ARE.
1. On a standard traffic light, is the green on the
top or bottom?

2. How many states are there in the USA? (Don't
laugh, some people don't know)

3. In which hand is the Statue of Liberty's torch?

4. What six colors are on the classic Campbell's
soup label?

5. What two numbers on the telephone dial don't
have letters by them?

6. When you walk does your left arm swing with
your right or left leg? (Don't you dare get up to see!)

7. How many matches are in a standard pack?

8. On the United States flag is the top stripe red or white?

9. What is the lowest number on the FM dial?

10. Which way does water go down the drain, counter
or clockwise?

11. Which way does a "no smoking" sign's slash run?

12. How many channels on a VHF TV dial?

13 On which side of a women's blouse are the buttons?

14. Which way do fans rotate (not a ceiling fan)?

15. How many sides does a stop sign have?

16. Do books have even-numbered pages on the
right or left side?

17 How many lug nuts are on a standard car wheel?

18. How many sides are there on a standard pencil?

19. Sleepy, Happy, Sneezy, Grumpy, Dopey,
Doc - Who's missing?

20. How many hot dog buns are in a standard package?

21 On which playing card is the card maker's trademark?

22 On which side of a Venetian blind is the cord that
adjusts the opening between the slats?

23. There are 12 buttons on a touch tone phone. What 2
symbols bear no digits?

24. How many curves are there in the standard paper clip?

25. Does a merry-go-round (like at a carnival) turn counter or
clockwise?

ANSWERS

1. On a standard traffic light, is the green on the top
or bottom?
BOTTOM

2. How many states are there in the USA? (Don't laugh,
some people don't know)
50

3. In which hand is the Statue of Liberty's torch?
RIGHT

4. What six colors are on the classic Campbell's soup label?
BLUE, RED, WHITE, YELLOW, BLACK & GOLD

5. What two numbers on the telephone dial don't have
letters by them?
1, 0

6. When you walk does your left arm swing with your
right or left leg?
RIGHT

7. How many matches are in a standard pack?
20

8. On the United States flag is the top stripe red
or white?
RED

9. What is the lowest number on the FM dial?
88

10. Which way does water go down the drain, counter
or clockwise?
CLOCKWISE (NORTH OF THE EQUATOR)

11. Which way does a "no smoking" sign's slash run?
TOWARDS BOTTOM RIGHT

12. How many channels on a VHF TV dial?
(no #1)

13 On which side of a women's blouse are the
buttons?
LEFT

14. Which way do fans rotate?
CLOCKWISE AS YOU LOOK AT IT

15. How many sides does a stop sign have?
8

16. Do books have even-numbered pages on the
right or left side?
LEFT

17 How many lug nuts are on a standard car wheel?
5

18. How many sides are there on a standard pencil?
6

19. Sleepy, Happy, Sneezy, Grumpy, Dopey, Doc.
Who's missing?
BASHFUL

20. How many hot dog buns are in a standard
package?
8

21. On which playing card is the card maker's trademark?
ACE OF SPADES

22. On which side of a Venetian blind is the cord that
adjusts the
opening between the slats?
LEFT

23. There are 12 buttons on a touch tone phone. What
2 symbols bear no
digits?
*, #

24. How many curves are there in the standard paper
clip?
3

25. Does a merry-go-round turn counter or clockwise?
COUNTER

Lucy's Birthday

One of my dreams is for Scottius Maximus to take me to the Lucy-Desi Museum in Jamestown, New York, Lucy's hometown. The first weekend in August is a big celebration of Lucy's birthday which was on August 6, 1911! Check it out here: The Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Center, Inc.

Did you know that all the cars on one of the freeways in California just stopped when Lucy's death had been announced? Many people had to dry their eyes from crying. Do you remember that day? I was deeply saddened and remember watching Nightline that night about her life. She was the best!!


NOTE: As Barb the evil Genius mentions in one of her posts about Superman though, people must be careful to not idolize other people. There is ONLY ONE TRUE GOD. I know that I have to remember this about Lucy and many of the old stars from the good old days!

Peace

Look at the peace, joy, and love in the face of Jesus. He makes it look so easy, doesn't He? May you find this peace, joy, and love through Christ. I encourage you to read His Word because the world cannot give you these things. Only Christ can give you all that you need.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27

Home Sweet Home

Ah, it is good to be home again with my dear husband, Scottius Maximus, and our dog Sam.
I am anxious to start blogging again! Our son and I had a good time visiting family out West though. Have a blessed day everyone!!

Leave It to Beaver

Good old Leave it To Beaver; it was a great show. Our family really enjoys watching the old reruns. I must say, though I love to dress up, I couldn't hack wearing a dressy dress and heels every day!

The Ongoing Argument

Barb the evil genius likes my Martin Luther quotes so this is for her.

Think of all the squabbles Adam and Eve must have had in the course of their nine hundred years. Eve would say, 'You ate the apple' and Adam would retort," You gave it to me.' "
(Martin Luther's Little Instruction Book)

Loving Anticipation

"Let the wife make her husband glad to come home and let him make her sorry he leaves." (Martin Luther)

Reclaim News (On the LCMS)

Lito (lpcruz), this post is for you!   I have been wanting to post something about the LCMS for you since you wrote a comment to me on May 12th of this year.   The first two articles are just prime examples of the horrid decay going on in the LCMS.  I don't know much about the other articles but left them in this news bulletin anyway.  I hope you will check out Reclaim News!   Blessings!
--------------------------------------------------
June 26, 2006


"Kieschnick, Ohio, California, BOD Election Fraud, Balfour for President"


LCMS President Kieschnick to Ohio District Convention:

In discussion in response to a query at the Ohio District Convention about
possibly revisiting the '04 Synod Convention (and CTCR) position on the role
of women in the church, President Kieschnick made this pronouncement:

"You are free to disagree, everyone is free to disagree, but let me say
this:  You, pastors, are NOT free to publicly teach or preach that Synod is
wrong on ANY given issue.  I'll say it again, you are NOT free to teach in a
bible class or preach from the pulpit that Synod is wrong on any issue."

It appears that the LCMS is now infallible, that is, if you want to collect
your pension.

-------------------------------
Pacific Southwest District:

This Baptist prayer was included in a proposed sermon sent to pastors in the
Pacific Southwest District for their laymen to read while the pastors were
at the PSWD Convention.

"Dear God, Thank you for sending Your Son Jesus Christ to earth.  I believe
Jesus was who He said He was and proved it by rising from death.  I want to
discover and begin following Your plan for my life.  I want to get to know
You personally.  Thank You, Jesus Christ, for dying and rising for me and
forgiving all my sins.  I now ask You into my heart and accept You as my
Lord and Savior, and your free gift of eternal life.  Amen"

We must assume that the lay people in these churches were asked to convert
to Christianity.

----------------------------------------
Board of Directors May 2006 Election Rejects Its Own Vote for Postponement

Before the two new candidates were elected to the LCMS Board of Directors,
the Board had voted 7 to 6 on May 23, 2006 to postpone all elections to the
Board Directors and other boards.

How can there be a legal election after they had already voted to postpone
this election and others?

However, President Kieschnick announced that he would not sign the agreement
with the plaintiffs in the class action lawsuit if the two vacant seats on
the Board of Directors were not filled by the Board of Directors on May
23rd.

The fact is that Walther Brantz had already been elected to fill one of the
empty seats on the Board of Directors in April.  How can the Board reverse
its own election?  If the CCM reversed the election, they certainly were not
able to reverse the postponement.

Does Dr. Robert Kuhn know how to run a meeting?

----------------------------------------------------------------
Here's part of what the latest LCMS E-News says about the Board of
Directors:

The Board of Directors filled vacancies on a number of Synod boards
(including two of its own seats), the Board for Pastoral Education, and the
Board of Directors for Concordia Plan Services/Board of Managers -- Worker
Benefit Plans.  Also filled was a vacancy on the Concordia Publishing House
(CPH) Board of Directors.

Those elected to fill the vacancies are the following:
LCMS Board of Directors (two laymen) -- Roy Schmidt of Bay City, Mich., and
David Piehler, Wausau, Wis.;

Board for Pastoral Education (one clergyman) -- Rev. Kenton Wendorf,
Grafton, Wis.;

Board of Directors -- Concordia Plan Services/Board of Managers -- Worker
Benefit Plans (one clergy and two lay) -- Rev. Ronald Carnicom, Hackensack,
Minn; Frederick Draegel, Richmond, Va.; and Mark E. Schmidtke, Valparaiso,
Ind.; and

CPH Board of Directors (one clergy) -- Rev. Philip Esala, Centerville, Ohio.

--------------------------------
Balfour For LCMS President

Reverend Edward Balfour, a member of the LCMS Board of Directors, has agreed
to allow his name to be placed in nomination for LCMS President and/or First
Vice President at the 2007 LCMS Convention.

Reclaim News has not endorsed any candidate for LCMS President since Daniel
Preus withdrew his name from consideration in 2001.

As a member of the Board of Directors, Balfour is fully aware of the Synod's
structure, challenges, and opportunities.

Balfour is qualified to carry out the duties of the LCMS Presidency with
honesty and integrity and to confront corruption and negligence.  He fully
endorses the historic polity of Walther's "Church and Ministry."

-----------------------------------------------------------
To receive Reclaim News type "subscribe" in subject line.

To cancel Reclaim News type "unsubscribe" in subject line

List owner and Reclaim News editor, Rev. Jack Cascione can be reached at
pastorcascione@juno.com

Also participate in www.Lutherquest.org for discussion.

Also view www.reclaimingwalther.org for papers, articles, & previous
releases.

Anonymous and Mr. X, I didn't forget you. Please see my comments in the comment section of
my post that you commented on a couple of weeks ago.

You just gotta love Lucy! I thought of this episode a couple of weeks ago when Scottius and I were smoking a cigar! Well, let me put it this way, he was smoking it, and I was inhaling it and turning green! :) We are not smokers by any means. He just likes to smoke them once in awhile, and I just try to humor him with my attempts to smoke one!

Does anyone remember this great episode? It was aired after the Florida episodes in the 1956 season (December
17th to be exact). This is one big cigar! I think that might even be too big for RUSH!

A Boy and His Dog

I just couldn't resist posting this picture! :)

A Neat Story to Share: The Tablecloth

The Tablecloth

The brand new pastor and his wife, newly assigned to their first
ministry, to reopen a church in suburban Brooklyn, arrived in early
October excited about their opportunities. When they saw their church,
it was very run down and needed much work. They set a goal to have
everything done in time to have their first service on Christmas Eve.
They worked hard, repairing pews, plastering walls, painting, etc.,
and on December 18 were ahead of schedule and just about finished.

On December 19 a terrible tempest - a driving rainstorm hit the area
and lasted for two days. On the 21st, the pastor went over to the church.
His heart sank when he saw that the roof had leaked, causing a large
area of plaster about 20 feet by 8 feet to fall off the front wall of
the sanctuary just behind the pulpit, beginning about head high.

The pastor cleaned up the mess on the floor, and not knowing what else
to do but postpone the Christmas Eve service, headed home. On the way
he noticed that a local business was having a flea market type sale
for charity so he stopped in. One of the items was a beautiful,
handmade, ivory colored, crocheted tablecloth with exquisite work,
fine colors and a Cross embroidered right in the center. It was just
the right size to cover up the hole in the front wall. He bought it
and headed back to the church.

By this time it had started to snow. An older woman running from the
opposite direction was trying to catch the bus.. She missed it. The
pastor invited her to wait in the warm church for the next bus 45
minutes later. She sat in a pew and paid no attention to the
pastor while he got a ladder, hangers, etc., to put up the tablecloth
as a wall tapestry. The pastor could hardly believe how beautiful it
looked and it covered up the entire problem area.

Then he noticed the woman walking down the center aisle. Her face was
like a sheet.. "Pastor," she asked, "where did you get that
tablecloth?" The pastor explained. The woman asked him to check the
lower right corner to see if the initials, EBG were crocheted into it
there. They were. These were the initials of the woman, and she had
made this tablecloth 35 years before, in Austria.
The woman could hardly believe it as the pastor told how he had just
gotten the Tablecloth. The woman explained that before the war she and
her husband were well-to-do people in Austria. When the Nazis came,
she was forced to leave. Her husband was going to follow her the next
week. He was captured, sent to prison and never saw her husband or her
home again.

The pastor wanted to give her the tablecloth; but she made the pastor
keep it for the church. The pastor insisted on driving her home, that
was the least he could do.. She lived on the other side of Staten
Island and was only in Brooklyn for the day for a housecleaning job.

What a wonderful service they had on Christmas Eve. The church was
almost full. The music and the spirit were great. At the end of the
service, the pastor and his wife greeted everyone at the door and many
said that they would return. One older man, whom the pastor recognized
from the neighborhood continued to sit in one of the pews and stare,
and the pastor wondered why he wasn't leaving.
The man asked him where he got the tablecloth on the front wall
because it was identical to one that his wife had made years ago when
they lived in Austria before the war and how could there be two
tablecloths so much alike. He told the pastor how the Nazis came,
how he forced his wife to flee for her safety and he was supposed to
follow her, but he was arrested and put in a prison.. He never saw his wife
or his home again all the 35 years in between.

The pastor asked him if he would allow him to take him for a little
ride. They drove to Staten Island and to the same house where the
pastor had taken the woman three days earlier.
He helped the man climb the three flights of stairs to the woman's
apartment, knocked on the door and he saw the greatest Christmas
reunion he could ever imagine.

True Story - submitted by Pastor Rob Reid

Overcoming Circumstances

"If I really recognize my blessings, my heart laughs; and if He sends me misfortune, trouble, and danger, I take to thanking Him and say: God be forever praised for chastising me in this way."
(Martin Luther)

"I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." Philippians 4:12 NIV

Wiener Dogs

Dachshunds: they are rare and an interesting breed! We know because we have had two of them in our married and family life! Our first one, Nicholas, was such a beautiful red miniature dachshund, but boy could he bite in a second. He could be Dr. Jekyl one minute, and Mr. Hyde the next! (Our dog trainer who really tried to help us train him when Nicholas was about a year old thought that because he had been a runt, he was more defensive towards everything and everyone.)

Mom and I bought Nick a few months after my father had passed away during my second year of college. Nick was so adorable at 6 weeks of age. Mom and I had NO CLUE how to train a dachshund though. We thought a little swat on the rear for "inappropriate" behavior would be good for him! Wouldn't you think? Nick didn't like it though and would turn his head around and snap when we did it! How is that for a loving pet/master relationship? He really respected us, didn't he? (We soon learned that that is NOT the right way to train a puppy and do things a lot differently now.) Shortly after getting Nick, Scottius Maximus and I started dating. It eventually dawned on us that we needed a LITTLE help with Nicholas so we started taking him to a dog training center. Oh boy, was that an experience to behold! Whenever we would walk the dogs in a circle, Nicholas would grab the fur of the dog in front of him! One time he got a big wad of some dog's hair. It was so embarrassing! Another time he got off his collar to chase a big doberman through the building and then outside! A few years later he got another dog at our apartment complex down by the throat! Ughh!

You must think we had lost control! Well essentially Nick did have the upper hand. We loved that little guy and really tried to make him mind, but ... He could be so much fun and had his good moments too. Nonetheless, we had to put him to sleep when our first son was born because Nick had bit too many people. We knew it was the right thing, but it was SO HARD to leave that little guy at the vet, knowing that we would never see him again.

The next wiener dog we got was much sweeter and a riot to have around. This time we took her to a professional dog trainer to try and start her off the right way. He was a big help. We had to put her to sleep too when she was 10 years old but not because of behavior. She had gotten very sick and was suffering with a lot of problems. This time I decided that I would not just drop her off but be with her when the vet put her to sleep. It was an instant thing. I was so glad I was there with her, but it was SO hard to do it. I think I cried for 2 - 3 days afterwards just as I had with Nick.

We now have a great dog, a Golden mix, and love him to pieces. He is the best dog we have EVER had. It was a little bit of an adjustment to have a much bigger dog than a little old wiener do; however, having a big dog is a lot of fun. Pets are such blessings. They are a lot of work, but they are worth it! Right TK? :)

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to all fathers out there, including my husband, Scottius Maximus! May Christ be their guide in raising their children to have an unshakeable faith in Christ and be the salt and light of the earth.


"Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." Ephesians 6:4

Collect from Holy Trinity Sunday

Yes, I am a week behind in posting this Collect of the Day for Holy Trinity Sunday; however, I wanted to post it just the same. We take the Holy Trinity for granted. Well, I should say that I have taken it for granted because I have always known about it since I was a little girl. However, there are some people who call themselves Christians who argue against the validity of the Trinity. They are starting off on the wrong foot and the wrong track to get to heaven.

Almighty and everlasting God, since you have given us, your servants, grace to acknowledge the glory of the eternal Trinity by the confession of a true faith, and to worship the true Unity in the power of your divine majesty, keep us also steadfast in this true faith and worship, and defend us ever from all our adversaries; for you, O Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, live and reign, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Be sure to check out my husband's post, Scottius Maximus, on The Athanasian Creed from Holy Trinity Sunday as well.

Do You Remember?

Speaking of fathers and such, how many of you watched these cartoons growing up and even watch it to this day? I used to watch them every day after school while eating my favorite snack of toast loaded with brown sugar! Herman was a hoot and my favorite.

Unexpected Rewards

"It is impossible that reward should not follow when we seek God in a purely selfless spirit, without any expectation of reward and advantage." (Martin Luther)

"He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him." Hebrews 11:6

Distractions and Seeking God First

Does this look like you or someone in your family? This is how our family has felt this week. It is SO EASY to get distracted from God and have "too many irons in the fire". Yet in Matthew 6:33, KJV, it says, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

Distractions and details of everyday life can pull us away from our time with God as well as with our spouses and families if we aren't careful and paying attention. It is SO EASY for couples and families to get so wrapped up in doing this and that and going here and there. It can even include being too busy at church . No one is excluded in this situation. Our pastor was just saying on Sunday how hard it is even for him and his family to keep "God time and devotional time" first in their lives and not get caught up in this hustle and bustle of everyday living.

I guess that it why I love The Andy Griffith Show. It is a "picture" of the more simple life. People aren't caught up in all the technology, etc. and have more time for God and each other. Don't get me wrong. There were problems in that era too; people have always been sinners since the fall of Adam and Eve. And the technology we have THESE days can be a blessing. However, the KEY to it is balance in everything and putting Christ first. As Christ says in Mark 8:36, "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his own soul." Is the constant "running" here and there for us to gain the whole world?" Will it draw us closer to Christ and our spouses and families? These are questions we all need to ask ourselves daily. This includes the Scottius Maximus and Lutheran Lucy household too.

One thing to remember though is that we cannot change the past, but we can affect the present and future. May Christ be first in our lives so that we are affecting our marriages, families, and people around us in a Christian way and being examples of more focused and calmer Christian lives and witnesses to the TRUTH of Christ!! Also, may our calmness show our trust in Christ to meet ALL our needs and not to lean on ourselves as the sole provider of our needs. Blessings!!

Lutheran Lucy Confesses That This I Love Lucy Scene Looks Familiar!!

Call this Lucy scene a little deja vu for Lutheran Lucy! No, I have never hit a concrete statue. However, I have had a rather traumatic moment in my life such as Lucy did in this episode.

Let me give you a little background information, leading up to the scene of the crime. As a child, did you ever get in the driver's seat whenever your mom or dad wasn't in it and pretend to drive? A lot of times my parents and I would drive around looking at houses with acreage in hopes of being able to once again bring back those "farmboy" days to my father. It seems that many times Dad would look first, and then we would go in to look around if he was really interested in the place. While waiting in the car with Mom, I would get in the driver's seat and pretend to drive.

Well, I would then have nightmares that I would be driving our car and then not be able to stop, running into the house!! I guess that God was just preparing me for a traumatic car event in my future!! :)

What happened did you say? Well, a few years ago, I ran through the back of our garage!! My husband and family thought there had been a big explosion because it was so loud! How did it happen did you say? Well, they say the story changes from time to time, but I think what happened is that the brake cover came off of the brakes and my foot (with "Lucy" sandals that I was wearing - they actually said Lucy on them :)) couldn't find the brake. So ... I proceeded to hit the garage wall in front of me which just swung to the left, and then I dropped about two feet onto the ground! I didn't think I was going to be able to stop the car from running completely over the fence and then into the Catholic priest's parsonage behind the property!! Thank God I was able to just put it into park so my little adventure could end!! Now do you see why I have a little trouble with car washes? I really get a little "freaked" if something comes near my windshield! :)

Anyway, my dear and sweet husband and son were so calm and reassuring which was a big help. Our son even commented that he was happy about me running through the back of the garage because I took out his old electric lawn mower in the process.

Another funny thing is that when the driver of the tow truck came to get it out the next day, he took off his hat, scratched his head, and said,"[bleep], I haven't EVER seen anything like this before!!" And, the only way that we could get it out was for me to back it up over a pile of layered rocks onto the concrete slab of the house. I was praying the whole time because I was concerned about me hitting the gas tank on the concrete as I backed up. Thankfully, I didn't blow the car up, and he got it off to the junkyard.

Poor car, it would never be the same after this little adventure of mine!!

I am thankful to say that God has protected me (and our family) thus far from any more car adventures with Lucy!!

Federal Marriage Amendment Fails to Pass in Senate

Though I hoped and prayed that the Federal Marriage Amendment would pass, deep within my heart I thought it would be rejected by the Senate.  It has been a few days since the event; nonetheless, here are Gary Bauer's thoughts on the issue:


From: Gary L. Bauer, Chairman
Campaign for Working Families

Date: Wednesday, June 7, 2006



Senate Liberals Divorced From Reality

Members of the United States Senate, once again, demonstrated just how
divorced from reality they have become.  Two weeks ago, it was illegal
immigration.  Today, it was the definition of marriage.  This morning, the
Senate failed to end a liberal filibuster of the proposed constitutional
amendment to preserve the definition of marriage in America as the union of
one man and one woman.  Under Senate rules, 60 votes are required to shut
down filibusters, but the vote was 49-to-48, effectively killing the
amendment.  (To see how your senators voted, go to http://www.cwfpac.com)

The respective positions of the political parties could not be more clear:
85% of Senate Republicans voted for the marriage protection amendment,
while 91% of Senate Democrats voted against the marriage protection
amendment – against defining marriage in America as the union of one man
and one woman.

When I wrote in yesterday’s report that the Democrat Party was beholden to
the militant homosexual movement, that was not hyperbole on my part.  Just
consider this fact:  12 Democrat senators who voted against the marriage
protection amendment “represent” states where the people have passed their
own marriage protection amendments.  In my view, this “dirty dozen” grossly
failed their constituents and Campaign for Working Families will do
everything we can to hold them accountable!

Leading the pack was Senate Democrat Leader Harry Reid, whose home state of
Nevada had to approve its marriage protection amendment in two consecutive
elections.  So, the citizens of Nevada voted twice to define marriage as
the union of one man and one woman, yet Harry Reid is leading the charge
against traditional marriage in the United States Senate.  Whom is Harry
Reid representing – the people of his state or the homosexual movement?
The answer is obvious.

While the partisan lines on marriage were hardening in the Senate, the
American people yesterday were moving in a completely different direction.
In Pennsylvania, 69% of the State House of Representatives approved a
marriage protection amendment to the Pennsylvania constitution.  In Alabama
voters went to the polls to nominate candidates in several important
primary elections, but they were also asked whether or not they wanted to
amend their state’s constitution to define marriage as the union of one and
one woman.

The most high profile primary yesterday pitted incumbent Republican
Governor Bob Riley against former Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore.  More
than 450,000 people voted in the Republican gubernatorial primary, which
Governor Riley won with just under 304,000 votes.  The marriage amendment
was approved with more than 635,000 votes, making Alabama the 20th state in
the union to pass a marriage protection amendment.

But to be clear:  More people voted for the marriage amendment than voted
in the Republican primary for governor.  Assuming every single Republican
voted for the amendment, that still means a whole lot of Democrats also
voted to protect traditional marriage.  This scenario has been repeated
over and over again, yet Washington still views this issue through myopic
partisan lenses.  The only explanation for the stalemate in the Senate is
that one political party has been hijacked by cultural extremists.

Please Contact Your Senators to Support Federal Marriage Amendment

May 22, 2006 A grassroots effort is under way to tell U.S. senators that America wants marriage constitutionally protected. A coalition of pro-family groups is looking for volunteers to tell senators that America overwhelmingly supports an amendment to the U.S Constitution to define marriage as the union of one man and one woman. The Marriage Protection Amendment (MPA) passed the Senate Judiciary Committee last week on a 10-to-8 party-line vote. It's expected to be introduced by Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., on Monday, June 5. That's when senators must know what Americans expects. Please contact your U.S. senators by either e-mail, fax, or phone and let them know you are for protecting traditional marriage and family. This link can help you get started: NOTE: The Senate is expected to vote on this important issue today, June 7th. Please do not delay in sending your senators your support of traditional marriage and family.

America's Funniest Home Videos

Lately we have stumbled on the America's Funniest Home Videos with Bob Saget. I had forgotten how hilarious this show is - only with Bob Saget though! Of course there is the occasional video that is a little offensive or suggestive ( how one is dressed,etc.) or weird, but overall it is a good choice for family entertainment. I tried to send in a video about our weiner dog several years ago, but it was never appreciated though! Oh well! They just didn't appreciate her funny antics like I did! :)

Helpful Hints

Put a sealed envelope in the freezer for a few hours, then slide a knife under the flap.
> The envelope can then be resealed.
> ============================================
> Use empty toilet paper roll to store appliance cords. It keeps them neat and you can
> write on the roll what appliance it belongs to.
> =================================================
> For icy door steps in freezing temperatures: get warm water and put Dawn dishwashing
> liquid in it. Pour it all over the steps. They won't refreeze.
> =================================================
> To remove old wax from a glass candle holder, put it in the freezer for a few hours. Then
> take the candle holder out and turn it upside down. The wax will fall out.
> =================================================
> Crayon marks on walls? This works wonderfully! A damp rag, dipped in baking soda.
> Comes off with little effort!
> =================================================
> Permanent marker on appliances/counter tops (like store receipt BLUE!) rubbing alcohol
> on paper towel.
> =================================================
> Whenever I purchase a box of SOS Pads, I immediately take a pair of scissors and cut
> each pad into halves. After years of having to throw away rusted and unused and smelly
> pads, I finally decided that this would be much more economical. And now a box of SOS
> pads last me almost indefinitely! In fact, I have noticed that the scissors get sharpened too!
> =================================================
> Blood stains on clothes? Not to worry! Just pour a little hydrogen peroxide on a cloth and
> proceed to wipe off every drop of blood. Works every time! =================================================
> Use vertical strokes when washing windows outside and horizontal for inside windows.
> This way you can tell which side has the streaks. Straight vinegar will get outside windows
> really clean. Don't wash windows on a sunny day. They will dry too quickly and will
> probably streak.
> =================================================
> Spray a bit of perfume on the light bulb in any room to create a lovely light scent in each
> room when the light is turned on.
> =================================================
> Place fabric softener sheets in dresser drawers and your clothes will smell freshly washed
> for weeks to come. You can also do this with towels and linen.
> ================================================
> Candles will last a lot longer if placed in the freezer for at least 3 hours prior to burning.
> ================================================
> To clean artificial flowers, pour some salt into a paper bag and add the flowers. Shake
> vigorously as the salt will absorb all the dust and dirt and leave your artificial flowers
> looking like new!
> =================================================
> To easily remove burnt on food from your skillet, simply add a drop or two of dish soap
> and enough water to cover bottom of pan, and bring to a boil on stovetop.
> ================================================
> Spray your Tupperware with nonstick cooking spray before pouring in tomato based
> sauces and there won't be any stains.
> ================================================
> Wrap celery in aluminum foil when putting in the refrigerator and it will keep for weeks.
> ================================================
> When boiling corn on the cob, add a pinch of sugar to help bring out the corn's natural
> sweetness.
> ================================================
> Cure for headaches: Take a lime, cut it in half and rub it on your forehead. The throbbing
> will go away.
> ================================================
> Don't throw out all that leftover wine: Freeze into ice cubes for future use in casseroles and
> sauces.
> ================================================
> To get rid of itch from mosquito bites, try applying soap on the area and you will experience
> instant relief.
> ================================================
> Ants, ants, ants everywhere. Well, they are said to never cross a chalk line. So get your
> chalk out and draw a line on the floor or wherever ants tend to march. See for yourself.
> ================================================
> Use air freshener to clean mirrors. It does a good job and better still, leaves a lovely smell
> to the shine.
> ================================================
> When you get a splinter, reach for the scotch tape before resorting to tweezers or a needle.
> Simply put the scotch tape over the splinter, then pull it off. Scotch tape removes most
> splinters painlessly and easily.
> ================================================
> Now look what you can do with Alka Seltzer.
> ================================================
> Clean a toilet. Drop in two Alka Seltzer tablets, wait twenty minutes, brush and flush. The
> citric acid and effervescent action clean vitreous China.
> ================================================
> Clean a vase. To remove a stain from the bottom of a glass vase or cruet, fill with water and
> drop in two Alka Seltzer tablets.
> ================================================
> Polish jewelry. Drop two Alka Seltzer tablets into a glass of water and immerse the jewelry for
> two minutes.
> =================================================
> Clean a thermos bottle. Fill the bottle with water, drop in four Alka Seltzer tablets, and let soak
> for an hour (or longer, if necessary).
> ================================================
> Unclog a drain. Clear the sink drain by dropping three Alka Seltzer tablets down the drain
> followed by a cup of Heinz White Vinegar. Wait a few minutes, then run the hot water.
> ===============================================
> Do your friends a favor. Pass this timely (and some not-so-timely) information on to a friend!
> I just did. Makes you wonder about ingesting Alka Seltzer, doesn't it?

Lucy Turns Businesswoman

"Come here. Are you tired of paying high prices? Are you interested in a little high class beef? Do you want a bargain? Tell you what I'm going to do. I've got sirloin, tenderloin, t-bones, rump roast..."


Lucy turns businesswoman in this episode. Does anyone know which episode it is and what year it is aired?