I Wonder

As we're approaching a new year, I wonder what it will bring. Will this be the year God brings my kids back to Him? What battles will we have to fight? What victories will we win? Will this be the year the Lord decides to rapture His church? Who knows but God himself.

Our world is going through a major change right now, but we can rest assure of one thing: God will NEVER change! He holds all of our problems, hopes, and dreams in the palm of His hands. He's a great big wonderful God, and we can ALWAYS rely on Him.

I hope everyone has a blessed and safe New Year!

A True Home

The band director at the school I teach at sent this to me, and I thought it was very fitting for anytime of the year. Sit back and enjoy.

A True Home

"A roof to keep out the rain. Four walls to keep out the wind. Floors to keep out the cold. Yes, but home is more than that. It's the laugh of a baby, the song of a mother, the strength of a father. Warmth of loving hearts, light from happy eyes, kindness, loyalty, comradeship. Home is first school...for the young ones where they go for comfort when they are hurt or sick. Where joy is shared and sorrow eased. Where fathers and mothers are respected and loved. Where children are wanted. Where the simplest food is good enough for kings because it is earned. Where money is not so important as loving- kindness. Where even the teakettle sings from happiness. That is home."

After reading this, it caused me to think...we can always make our home a haven.

My Gift to Him

Our Sunday night service yesterday was awesome! Pastor Holley never ceases to amaze me at the visuals he comes up with for our services, and last night was no different. He had several people from the church wrap the gift that they would like to give Jesus now and in the new year to come. I was touched so deeply by the sincerity of all those that gave their gift and spoke about it!!

After thinking about the service for awhile, I thought about what I would give the Lord, and the gift of thankfulness kept rolling over and over in my mind. How many times do we look at this season and wonder what we will be receiving instead of being thankful for what we already have?! I came up with the conclusion that if God never blessed me with anything else....I can honestly say I've already been blessed beyond measure. God has truly blessed me with a pastor and family that I don't have the words to describe. My pastor cares so deeply for my soul and the flock that God has placed him over. Am I thankful for that? Oh, you better believe it!! He and his family are beyond awesome...they are too good to be true!!!

I have a wonderful husband, a nice, comfortable home (that's paid for), a nice car (that's also paid for), my health, my job, our business, and a host of other things. I've been praying for many years for specific needs, and my prayers haven't been answered yet, but I'm still thankful that I can still trust in a God that will not fail me and will answer in His time. Do I still get emotional about these needs? Oh, yes indeed, but God has made me a promise, and I constantly look to Him for faith until these prayers are answered. Many times I hold my hand out to God and say, "See God, here's my mustard seed of faith. I can't see it, but I know you can. Please help me to hold on, even though the trial looks so dark."

I guess what I'm trying to say is I want God to take my gift of thankfulness and multiply it. I don't ever want to take anything or anyone for granted. Merry Christmas Jesus, and thank you for a grateful heart!!!

Happy Anniversary, Harden

Thirty-four years ago I married the man of my dreams! We were, and still are, very much in love. I thank God everyday for a loving and Godly man as my husband. Many people think he's quiet, but I know the other side of him. He really can be funny and a lot of fun to be with. I know Harden and I are so different, but maybe that's what makes us so compatable. When I told my kids at school, they wanted to know if I've been married to the same man for all this time. I'm proud to say that I have been married as long as I have to a wonderful man, and I pray God blesses us with many more years to come. Happy Anniversary, Harden!! I love you more each day!!

Ryan

I know that Christmas should be "Tis the season to be jolly," but I witnessed something Wednesday in my class that brought tears to my eyes. I heard something that I guess I'll never forget!

Last week my 7th graders took the district Writing TAKS benchmark test and did an awesome job!! I had a 96% passing rate, and I'm so proud of my students! Well, because of their efforts, I gave them a free day and allowed them to bring snacks. They were so excited, but I noticed that one of my students, Ryan, had nothing. Now, you have to know Ryan. He's a shy, timid young man and appears to be a loner, but I really never thought much about it, especially since a lot of guys aren't as outgoing as the girls are.

I asked Ryan if he forgot his snacks, and he really didn't have an answer for me. I asked him if he would like to call his mom and dad to see if they could bring him something, and his answer hit me square between the eyes!! He said, "Mrs. Anglin, my mom and dad can't bring me anything because they are both in jail." I was totally shocked and wanted to evaporate into thin air!!

I quickly found my heartbeat again and asked him who he lived with. He told me that he lives with his grandmother, but she was unable to bring him anything. I wanted to cry my eyes out, but I knew that wouldn't solve anything. I gave him some bottled water, candybars, and some chips, and he was soooo thankful.

This incident made me stop and think about all the kids that walk the halls of our school and hurt so deeply inside. I've thought many times of Ryan over the course of my weekend and say a prayer for him. Please pray for our students that they may come to know that Jesus loves them no matter what their situation is. I pray that I can be the example that Ryan needs for today and the future!

Angel Tree

Well, Christmas is upon us, and we've heard the old saying..."It's better to give than to receive." I just wanted to take this time and brag about the students and staff of the school I teach at: Zundy Jr. High.

I'm over the student council, and once again, we teamed up with the Teachers Credit Union and took on a project called, The Angel Tree. I'm sure you've all heard of this, but for those that haven't, it's a project that takes on CPS and kids in foster care. These kids are in a very unfortunate situation, and it's certainly NOT what they've asked for!

I introduced the program to our school, and my principal gave me the OK to pursue it. The student council members and myself went and decorated the Christmas tree at both branches and began taking up donations from the entire school. I'm so PROUD to say that our school raised $2300.00, and I'm taking 7 of our 8th grade student council members to the credit union Monday to present them the check!!

I can't begin to tell you how excited I was/am to be a part of a caring and giving school as Zundy!! If it wasn't for them, some of these kids probably wouldn't have a chance to know what a Merry Christmas is all about. I can honestly say that it IS more blessed to give than receive!

My Gratitude

I just love a challenge, and this past week my pastor challenged (or I guess you might say encouraged us) to let someone in our life know what they really mean to us. I must say it didn't take me long to know who I would choose because this lady has been an inspiration to me for many years....Joann Holley. I sent her a card Wednesday, but I also wanted to dedicate this post to her.

Sis. Joann, I can't even begin to tell you what a fine Christian lady you are. I'll never forget when I was around 14 years old, I was struggling with that inner tug-of-war wondering if I really wanted to live for God or the world. Your words of kindness, encouragement, and love made such an impact on me that I knew I wanted to be just like you. Everyone that knows you can see that you're true-blue all the way. I've always admired you and thought of you as a mentor in my life. If there's anyone I want to pattern my life after, it's YOU!! Thank you for being my friend and inspiration. I LOVE YOU!!

Happy Birthday Harden

Today is my husband's birthday, and I would like to wish him a very Happy Birthday! Anyone knowing Harden knows he doesn't like a lot of fan-fare, but I feel as though he's worthy of some sort of celebration!! We went to Cracker Barrel last night and had a nice, quiet meal together, and we plan on going out for 'breakfast' tonight after church. I'm so thankful for a Godly husband who lives for God with all his heart and has always provided for me. Harden, I hope you have a very Happy Birthday and look forward to seeing your prayers for your family answered very soon. I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!!!

My Birthday "Dutton" Style

As most of you know, my birthday is on Halloween. Now, since I had nothing to do with this, I really can't take the blame for it. LOL! This year, however, was quite different. I was completely shocked when I arrived at church Wednesday night!!! Bro. & Sis. Dutton surprised me with a new broom and a witch's hat. Bro. Dutton has always teased me about being a "witch" and wanting to know if I have my broom ready. We always get a good laugh from this, but now I can say I'm ready! This was soooo nice of them to think of me, and I'll always remember it (in a good way) and will always be ready for their surprises! I have pictures of my new hat & broom, but I don't know how to place it on my post. Kassie has it on her post, and for that I say a resounding, "Thank You", Kassie.

My birthday was more on the quiet side this year (except the kids fun-fest, which was totally AWESOME). My sweet daughter-n-law, whom I love so much, sent me some beautiful yellow roses to school This is Mark's wife, Katie, and she is certainly a blessing to us! It'll even be better when she's filled with the Holy Ghost!! Then, I arrived home Friday afternoon from work, and Julie D. had "Happy Birthday" balloons on the table along with an angel ornamnet and a small cake. What can I say about her, but she's literally an angel sent from heaven! She's one of the most thoughtful ladies I know, and she's a blessing to everyone who knows her! I love you, Julie!!

Harden gave me $50.00 and took me out to eat after the kids fun-fest, which was very enjoyable.

My dad gave me a new robe, and my mother gave me money. Nanny & Papa called to wish me a Happy Birthday and said my gift would be a little late because Nanny is sick. I told her to NOT worry about it but to just get well soon!!

All of you are precious people to me, and I love and appreciate you soooo much!

Happy Birthday Nanny

Please let me take this time to wish my WONDERFUL mother-n-law a Happy Birthday! She is ? years old today and is simply enjoying life. She's an extremely caring, faithful, and loving person!! Matter of fact, I've often wondered what I ever did to deserve such a precious "mom" like her!!!!! Nanny, I hope you have the best birthday you've ever had because if anyone deserves it.....you do! I love you so much!!! There has to be a special place in Heaven just for you!

I Have a Few Minutes to.......

I can't believe it! I actually have a few minutes to relax a little and post a blog. Today is Parent/Teacher Conferences (and report card time), and we have an hour and a half for lunch. It feels good to digest my food and not inhale it in 30 minutes!! I had a nice lunch with Harden and enjoyed being with him so much! We both have had so many allergy and asthma problems, so when we come home from work, we collapse in our easy chairs and try to have a conversation that makes sense. We can't wait for the first freeze, and maybe we'll feel half-way normal. Oh well....I am thankful to be alive and know that God is on our side!!

Sick of Asthma/Allergies!

I know it's been a while ago since I posted but I've been suffering from asthma/allergies in a BAD way!! Since this experience is so new to me, I've really had a tough time with it! All of our married life I've seen Harden tormented by allergies, and I just couldn't figure out why he had such a tough time with it. I thought many times, "What's wrong, why can't you breathe?" Well, now I'm getting a taste of what it's like.

Last Christmas I had pneumonia, and since then, my lungs haven't been the same. I FINALLY got over that, but in July, I started getting that hacky cough again, which has led into asthma. My family doctor feels as though it's allergy related, but......what am I allergic to?!! I hope to find this out next Tuesday when I see an allergy doctor. Ican honestly say that I've never been more excited to see a doctor in all my life!!

To wrap this post up, I want to say that my heart sincerely goes out to any and all of you have suffered from this ailment! I try to look on the bright side.....there won't be any allergies or sickness in Heaven!!

First Day of School

Well, it has arrived...the first day of a new school year. My day went very well, and I think I'm going to have a great group of kids. I did, however, have something happen that I thought never would... a 7th grader crying!! She was so scared, but I assured her mother that she would be just fine, and invited her to come in my class and stay with her daughter for awhile. She opted not to(which I think was wise), but I let her make that decision on her own. Jr. High is a touchy, scary time for a lot of kids because it's a new school, new responsibilities, and peer pressure.

I prayed last night in our "Back to School" service that God would help me be a witness to these kids because this is the age that will make or break them. I usually pray that prayer every year, but for some reason, I feel a certain "something in the air" for our children of today. I hope I can make a difference in their lives because these are awesome kids, and they deserve to know who Jesus is and that He loves them unconditionally.

If you read this post and have kids, I pray for them daily and wish them the best. What do you say....let's win our school for God!!

Happy Birthday

I know this is a belated post, but the meaning is still the same. Sunday, August 10th, my wonderful father-n-law celebrated his 84TH birthday!!! We had a little party for him Saturday night, and we enjoyed being with him so much!! I'll be honest...I didn't ever think we would see him get out of the hospital when he suffered his massive heart attack in May, but God had different plans, and I'm soooo thankful for His healing and mercy!!!! Happy Birthday, Papa....you're the greatest, and I love you very much!

Prayer for Patsy Kelley

Today I found out that Patsy Kelley has been diagnosed with colon cancer. I was so shocked and saddened to hear this news!! I talked to Christy (Brown) Castro, which is Patsy's daughter, and she told me that Patsy will be going in for surgery Wednesday to see how far the cancer has spread. I know that everyone that reads this post will not know Patsy, but I sure would appreciate it if you whisper a prayer for her. I KNOW God can heal her body, and that's what I'm believing Him for. Patsy used to attend Life Tabernacle, but she is now going to the church in Iowa Park. Christy told me that she feels a real peace about the whole situation, but please keep the family and Patsy in your prayers. God has NOT lost his power!!

VBS

Last night, at church, we had an incredible re-enactment of VBS, which took place last week! My hat is off to Bro. Joseph for an AWESOME job he's doing with our children. I took a lot of pictures for our end-of-the-year slide show and saw some funny sights!! I never knew our people had so much talent!

I'm also very EXCITED about a new program Pastor Holley is beginning in September. It's called Ex-Treme, and it sounds like it's going to be "extremely" exciting. Thank you, too, Bro. Gene for a vision for our kids!! It's so much fun living for the Lord!!!

Austin

For the past 3 days I've been in Austin, Texas sitting on a Reading TAKS Test committee. It was one of the most exciting and rewarding experience of my life!! Now, don't get me wrong....I'm NOT for the TAKS Test, but if our kids have to take it, then it might as well be durable.

I was on a committee with 10 other Texas teachers from other towns, and we were nominated and chosen to serve on this committee. Out of all the WONDERFUL English teachers in Wichita Falls, 10 of us were chosen and approved by Dr. Orr. I feel humbled and honored to have been selected!!

WE did A LOT of reading and literally developed the up-coming Reading TAKS Test for either this year or next year. We spent MANY hours combing through good (and not tricky) answers that would justify the questions. My eyes and brain are tired, tired, tired, but at least I know our kids will have a fair shot at the test and hopefully will not feel so stressed out!!!

Good luck Texas students because I'm on your side!!

Low Level of Depression

I can't believe it.... they're already out!! Yesterday I was at Walmart, and the first thing I saw was SCHOOL SUPPLIES! I thought to my self, "They can't do this to me! It's not time yet!!" It kind of made me go into a low level of depression, but the blues didn't stay around for long when I thought about retirement is right around the corner for me. No, I'm NOT trying to wish my life away, but I would like to go places and do things during the school year that I normally don't get to do. Oh well, I guess my time is coming soon enough. It's the "getting started" that's hard. Once I'm in the swing of things, I'm OK. I do love my job, my school, and what I teach. I feel much better now that I've vented. Have a great week ahead!!

Florida Trip

Well, I'm back from my trip to Florida, and I had a wonderful time! It was so good to spend some quality time with my mom, and she spoiled me rotten. She lives in Jacksonville, but she and I went to Orlando for 3 days and stayed in her condo. We went to a place called "Arabian Knight,"and it was fantastic!! It kinda reminded me of Medevil Times a little bit. The meal they served us was delicious. We had steak, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rolls, and ice cream for dessert.
The next day we ate breakfast at a very quaint restaurant in a town called, Celebration, Florida. The town reminded me of Guthrie, Oklahoma, so you can only imagine how neat it was. We then toured the new condos that have just been built where my mother is a member of, and for just hearing their 45 minute speech, I received $75.00. The condos are absolutely breathtaking!! Maybe one day soon I'll be able to buy one.
After that, my mom took me to a place called, "The Holy Land". We saw several outdoor dramas that literally brought tears to our eyes. One was when Jesus was crucified, and it seemed so real! The actors and the singing was amazing! We stayed there for the entire afternoon, and it was certainly worth the money. We went out for dinner and then went back to the condo. We were so exhausted, but that didn't keep us from staying up late. We talked, laughed, and talked somemore. You would have thought we were a couple of giggly highschool kids. It was A LOT of fun, though!
After breakfast the next day, we headed back to Jacksonville, which is a 3 hour drive. We stopped in St. Augustine, though, to do some shopping at one of the largest malls in the United States. I quickly spent my $75.00 on a new comforter and sham set at a Croscill store. Needless to say, I had to borrow a suitcase from my mom to get it home, but it was worth it.
The last full day I was there, we went to Cheesecake Factory to eat, and it was yummy!!! We shopped all day long from can to can't, but I got a lot of good bargains. They have so many neat places to shop!
My trip came to a quick halt because the next day was Saturday, and it was time to come home to reality. When I arrived at DFW, my flight was delayed for 4 hours due to stormy weather, but I FINALLY arrived back home in Wichita Falls after 11:00 PM. Harden was there to pick me up, and it was soooo good to see him again.
My next possible trip will be to Branson with Harden for a few days, if he can spare the time off from work. It doesn't seem like he owns the shop, but the shop owns him!! I hope we get to go because he really needs the time away.
My last hoorah will be the end of this month. I will be going to Austin to serve on a TAKS Test committee for 3 days. It's an all expense paid trip, so I'm kinda looking forward to it. I sure would like to see that test done away with, but until then, I guess it won't do any good to complain about it.
Well, I'm getting pretty tired, so I'm signing off.

Off To Florida!

After ending a school year, gaining a new pastor, and Papa suffering a massive heart attack, I'm getting a few days to sneak away to visit my mother and step-father in Florida! I hate to leave Harden, but I REALLY need a break!!!! Harden and I will be leaving for Pampa, Texas Saturday and Sunday on business, and I'll be flying to Florida on Monday and returning Saturday night. I'm looking forward to some relaxation and some quality time with my mom. I'll join the blogworld when I return. I hope everyone has a great week! Who knows.....this may be the week the Lord returns for His bride!

What Can I Say?

What can I say, but that I'm thrilled beyond measure to have the Holley's as my pastor! This makes the third time I've been through this, and I can honestly say that the excitement I feel is almost too much to contain. I grew up with Bro. W.R .Holley as my pastor, and he was incredible!!! I can only imagine what another Bro. Holley will mean to me. I never dreamed in a million years that this little toddler I saw grow up into a fine man of God would eventually be my pastor, but I'm honored. I have so many memories of Bro. Gene and Sis. Karla, and I'm looking forward to many more! They are WONDERFUL in everyway. It's so neat to see the legacy go on from here. I'm excited for my new pastor and his family to get here and see what God has in store for us.

Relief

After a LONG week in the hospital, Papa is finally home!!!! It's amazing to see the hand of God at work, especially when we think it's all over. The day after Papa had his heart attack, the family were gathered around his bedside, and he began to sing, "The Great Speckled Bird". His voice was so weak, but the sincerity was so strong. He would sing a little and then begin to cry. It was a very emotional time for us, but we knew God was in control.

Saturday, however, was much different! The doctor came in with a very bad report. He said Papa's kidneys were beginning to fail, and he was only operating on 20% of his heart. To make a long story short, he gave us no hope of survival. I was trying so hard to comprehend all of this when suddenly 6 Holy Ghost filled men from Life Tabernacle walked in proclaiming victory over death in the name of Jesus!! They were a mighty army of God in my eyes, and I praise God for their prayers. Bro. Ojeda, Cosme Jr., Joseph, Jason, Lynn, and Trevon annointed Papa with oil, and WOW....the rest is history! The nurse told me she had never felt or heard a prayer such as that. She said it could be felt all through the hospital. Matter of fact, the doctor even wanted these guys to pray for ALL the patients one by one.

The next day, Papa began walking, sitting up in a chair, eating better, etc. He is absolutely a miracle from God!!!! I'll never be able to thank everyone who prayed and visited him. It has meant so much to us, and we thank our church family for all you've done!!!

Next, we have a pastor! YEA!!!!! God has been so good to us; I really don't know where to begin when it comes to thanking Him. The song that keeps rolling over in my mind is, "My Thanks to Him" and "What a Mighty God We Serve". God is certainly in the business of answering prayer. I KNOW without a shadow of a doubt that the best is yet to come!

You'll Never Know What a Day Will Bring

I'm sitting here at my computer trying to find the right words for this post. As an English teacher, "words" normally come pretty easy for me, but not today. Yesterday our world was turned upside down when my wonderful father-n-law had a massive heart attack. I sat in the waiting room while he was in surgery going down memory lane. The past 33 years have been an absolute joy and pleasure of mine to be a part of the Anglin family. My mother and father-n-law, Nanny & Papa, have treated me as one of their own, and for that I say a resounding, "THANK YOU" from the bottom of my heart. They have treated me with upmost respect and have loved me unconditionally. Matter of fact, Papa has told me many times that I'm his favorite daughter-n-law, and I remind him that I'm his ONLY daughter-n-law, and we get always get a good laugh out of that! He's an awesome man of God and loves his family and church dearly. Please keep him in your prayers because we need a miracle from God right now. I need to sign off now beacuse I can't see through my tears to type anymore.

Results

They're back!! Our TAKS test results are in, and they are WONDERFUL!!! I'm so proud of my students. They worked very hard, and the results prove it. I'm sorry, but please allow me to brag now. My Writing TAKS scores were 99% passing, and my Reading scores were 96% passing! This could have never happened if my students were not as attentive as they were. I promised them a donut party and a free day if they did well, soooo let the party begin! I know this may be foreign to some people, but to anyone that's familar with TAKS testing knows that it's a big deal in the education world. Now, I know it shouldn't be, but it is, so we have to do our very best. Please pray for our kids in the public school system because this is a very trying time for them, and I wish the tests were done away with! Thanks for letting me brag awhile....I just couldn't help myself.

The Countdown

Well, it's the countdown now until this school year is OVER!! I've had a great year, and I love teaching Jr. High. I know some people think I'm pretty strange, but I enjoy it. However, it's now time for a break and some much-needed rest! We have 8 1/2 school days left, and then I can sleep in as late as I want, shop as long as I want, etc. Our vacation, however, has been put on hold until we vote in a new pastor. With Harden being a board member (please pray for our board), we know we need to be here and not out of town. I am planning a trip to Florida June 23-28 to see my mom, which I'm very excited about. I know it's only Monday-Saturday, but Harden feels (and I do, too) like I need to be here on a Sunday to hear the ministers that are trying out. Needless to say, I'm looking forward to school being OUT!!

It's Over

After 5 straight days of testing, the TAKS tests are finally over!!!! Now comes the time of patiently waiting for the results to come back. I wish the state of Texas would do away with these state mandated tests!! I know we need to see if students are prepared to advance to the next grade, but this is silly. What are reports cards for? I remember the days when that's all we had to measure their chances of passing. I'm so tired of seeing kids come to school worried sick (and I really mean sick) wondering if they will pass the tests or not. Wondering if they'll go to the next grade or if they will be held back. I've been asked to sit on a TAKS committee in Austin this summer for 2 days, and believe me, I will make my voice heard. I don't know 1 single teacher, parent, or student that is in favor of these tests! Okay...I have spoken my mind, and I feel better.

20-20 at Last

Many of you know that I had to have cataract surgery on both eyes, and I'm very happy to announce that I am now 20-20 in both eyes!! I don't think I've ever had 20-20 vision. I wore glasses as a young person and eventually got contacts and wore them for around 18 years. I now no longer have to wear my contacts, and for that I say a resounding, "PRAISE THE LORD"! It got to the point that I couldn't even read the Sonic sign or street signs. My doctor told me that it was finally time to remove the cataracts. I'm extremely pleased with the results and would gladly do it over again. I guess this is just another sign that I'm getting OLD!

When Fear Comes Knocking, Answer it With Faith

What an awesome time we had this weekend with Bro. & Sis Henry!! He absolutely amazes me with his wit and humor. The stories he shared with us in Sunday School were so funny and yet so true. The messages he brought us both services were masterpieces. God moved in such a beautiful way, and His presence has lingered with me all day long. He spoke on fear for his Sunday School lesson and reminded us once again to answer it with faith. Fear is NOT the will of God, and it must go in Jesus Name!! Our military men and women have been such a blessing to us, and I'm sure going to hate to see them leave! I'm so excited to see what God has in store for Life Tabernacle. He is FAITHFUL!!

I'm New at Blogging

I got tired of being anonymous, so I decided to become a member of the "blogging world"! Thanks to Sis. Elms and Ashley Jordan, this has become possible. I have discovered that the other posts that I have read are so enjoyable, I thought I would give this new adventure a try.