The U.S.Navy

Wednesday, May 31, 2017

• The U.S. Navy was also founded in 1775 by the Continental Congress.
• The U.S. Navy is the largest in the world.
• Although the Navy doesn't take a position in this fight, two towns claim to be the birthplace of the Navy. The first armed sea vessel of the American Revolution was the Hannah. Beverly, Massachusetts outfitted the ship and Marblehead, Massachusetts provided the crew.
• Most attack submarines are about 30 yards wide and 100 yards long.
• The Secretary of the Navy has been in charge of naming new ships since 1819. Commissioned ships are prefixed with USS, which stands for United States Ship. 
• The Navy SEAL Trident is sometimes called the "Budweiser." They claim it has something to do with the "Basic Underwater Demolition" course. It also somewhat resembles the crest for Anheuser-Busch.
• Neil Armstrong set foot on Korean soil in 1951 after he ejected from his plane which had been hit by anti-aircraft fire. Eighteen years later, he set foot on the moon.
• Known by the Navy as AK3 Stanley Burrell (Petty Officer Third Class Aviation Storekeeper), this man now goes by MC Hammer.
• SEAL Team Six was so named because we didn't want the Soviets to know that we only had two other SEAL Teams. 
• David Farragut, was commissioned in 1800 into the U.S, Navy at the ripe old age of nine. At age 12, he fought in the war of 1812. Abraham Lincoln later made him Vice Admiral and then following the Civil War he became the first Admiral of the Navy.

When I was 20 years old, I toured with a U.S.O. Entertainment group in the Pacific region. While it was dry-docked, we got to perform on the U.S.S. Midway. It was an experience I will never forget. What a massive vessel. My daddy served on the U.S.S. Wasatch in World War II in the Pacific arena. It was really neat to be performing in the vacinity where he had served so long before.

I can't imagine being on the front lines of a major conflict. I do so appreciate those who have served and who plan to do so. Y'all are my heroes.

Lord, you made the seas and all their majesty. You made the sailors who patrol the oceans. Protect these men and women who are risking it all for our freedom. 

 

The U.S. Army

Monday, May 30, 2017

• The Army is older than the country it serves. It was formed in June of 1775 by the Continental Congress. 
• If the US Army were a city, it would be the 10th largest in the United States. Over 1 million people are actively serving in the Army: half in active duty and half in the Army Reserves and National Guard. 
• It is also the second-largest employer behind Wal-Mart (over 2 million). 
• Specialist is the most prevalent rank among soldiers. They make up over one-fourth of active personnel. 
• The service burns through approximately 1 billion gallons of fuel every year. We used about a gallon of fuel per soldier per day during World War II. Today it is over 22 gallons. 
• My father-in-law and my brother-in-law were both in the Army. 

How blessed we are to have such a strong Army. I'm afraid we don't acknowledge them enough. 

Lord, thank you for all the men and women who have served or are currently serving in our U.S. Army. Thank you for the freedoms we have as a result of their dedication and hard work. And thank you that you defend us spiritually against all evil. 

 

Decoration Day

Memorial Day

Monday, May 29, 2017

Yesterday many churches across the land honored the fallen from our military and many special remembrances will occur today. People will place flags and flowers on the grave sites of their family and friends in memory of their service to our country. And well we should. It costs a lot for us to have our freedom. And we must never forget. 

Did you know that "Decoration Day" sprang up after the Civil War? It was later named "Memorial Day" and then later moved to the last Monday of May. It unofficially marks the first day of summer and Labor Day signifies the end. 

Yesterday at church we paused in remembrance of our fallen and played a beautiful rendition of "Taps." That made me wonder about the origin of that tune. And this is some of what I found. 

During the Civil War, the North and the South both had a way to signal "lights out" for the camps. It was typically three beats or "taps" on a drum. Later Brigadier General Daniel Butterfield from the Union Army used the current bugle call to signify the end of day and soon both sides incorporated the call. 

Did you know that "Taps" has lyrics? I could tell you the first verse but I had no idea it had five. 

Day is done, gone the sun,
From the lake, from the hills, from the sky;
All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.

Fading light, dims the sight,
And a star gems the sky, gleaming bright.
From afar, drawing nigh, falls the night.

Thanks and praise, for our days,
'Neath the sun, 'neath the stars, neath the sky;
As we go, this we know, God is nigh.

Sun has set, shadows come,
Time has fled, Scouts must go to their beds
Always true to the promise that they made.

While the light fades from sight,
And the stars gleaming rays softly send,
To thy hands we our souls, Lord, commend.

Over time "Taps" began to be played at military funerals to signify the close of life. And I personally think it is beautiful. 

I heard this on the television this morning: "Everybody knows that Memorial Day is the time to buy furniture!"

Somehow I missed that along the way. 

But I hope that we don't get so lost in the sales and picnics that we forget our fallen military. 

Lord, thank you for the brave men and women who gave their lives that we might be free. And thank you, too, Lord for your sacrifice which frees us from eternal separation from You. We are so blessed. 

 

Memory Verse 2017 -- Week 21

Sunday, May 28, 2017

Abiding in Christ

 

If you hold to my teaching, 

you are really my disciples.

John 8:31 

What did Jesus teach?

• Love your neighbor
• Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, and strength
• Take the gospel to the ends of the earth

We don't get to pick and chose what we will adhere to and what we will ignore. The Lord's rules are there for a reason and we are to abide by them. So...

Real disciples follow the Lord's teachings. 

Spend the week focusing on this scripture: 

• Read the verse in your Bible. 
• Read the passage before and after it. 
• Write it in your journal. 
• Ask the Lord to show you how it applies to your life. 
• Put it on a piece of paper and post it in a prominent place in your home so that you can see it often. 
• Put the words to music. Make up a tune or use one you already know. Singing always helps in the memory process. It's a left brain / right brain thing. 
• Always memorize the scripture reference with the verse so you can remember where to find it in the Bible. 

King of Kings

Saturday, May 27, 2017

We've looked at three African animals this week that really caught my eye when I visited Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa a few years ago: the elephant, the giraffe, and the lion. The lion, of course, has been known for a very long time as the king of the jungle. 

But who is our "king of the jungle?" 

The King of kings?

The Lord of lords?

It is the creator of the world. It is God, himself. There is no one greater than He. 

Do you know why it is tradition to stand at the performance of the Hallelujah Chorus in Handel's, "Messiah?" Do you remember the words?

• King of kings
• Lord of lords
• And He shall reign forever and ever
• Hallelujah

Do you know anything about the first performance of "The Messiah?"

It premiered in March of 1743 in London, England. Some say that King George II was there and was so moved by the finale that he stood out of respect for the King who had more authority than he did. And, of course, when the king stands, everybody else does, too. 

There is some debate about this story. But it serves to emphasize my point in today's blog. 

• No matter how important we think we are, there is One who is greater still. 
• And He shall reign forever and ever. 
• He, alone, is worthy of our praise. 

Lord, you are the mighty God, the Everlasting Father, and the Prince of peace. Thank you for loving us like you do -- we are so unworthy. Thank you that you are our King! We love you!

Theories abound, the most common being that King George II, attending the London premiere of “Messiah’’ in March of 1743, was so moved by the “Hallelujah’’ that he stood up - and if the king stands, everybody stands. The only problem is that there is no contemporary evidence he was even at the concert; newspapers and eyewitnesses conspicuously fail to report any royal presence.

 

King of the Jungle

Friday, May 26, 2017

The past couple of days I've posted about two of my three favorite African animals -- the elephant and the giraffe. The third one is the lion. The encounters we had with two sets of brothers in the Madikwe Game Reserve were absolutely incredible. 

Video from Madikwe Game Reserve

My son and I went to Madikwe at the end of a mission trip to Botswana. The Game Reserve is located just across the border into South Africa. The accommodations were pretty cool -- everybody stayed in thatch-roofed "huts" that were well-equipped and comfy. 

The first night was quiet -- except for a massive critter trying to make a hole in our roof so it could gobble us up. We carefully went outside with a flashlight to see what on earth could be making all that noise. Just an iguana. 

The next night was absolutely phenomenal. As we lay in bed drifting off to sleep, we could hear two male lions out there roaring. It's a little different from hearing crickets or dogs or even coyotes in the darkness. These guys were the top of the food chain. And that night they were very vocal. 

But we were relaxed and content to hear their voices. We knew from the experience earlier in the day that we were not on their menu. 

John and Steve were two brothers whose territory we were in. We met them earlier in the day as they entered a clearing where our jeep-like vehicle sat. "Do not move," said our guide. "Do not make a noise." The brothers came to within 15-20 yards of our spot and sprawled out for a little rest in the sun. They yawned. They groomed themselves. And they couldn't have cared less that we were there. 

 

Later as we drove through the adjacent territory looking for the big five, we spotted the other pair of Madikwe males walking toward us on the dirt path. Our guide shut down the vehicle and we quietly waited. The lions continued toward us for a bit then veered off into the bushes on their left. They walked along beside where we sat until they had passed us and then they merged back onto the path and continued on their way. 

 

 

Their manes. Their feet. Their teeth! How incredible to observe them this closely in their habitat! (In this picture you can see the black metal bar that we held onto in the vehicle. That gives you an idea of how close these guys were!)

I loved the birds, the ant hills, the trees, the sunsets, the zebras, and all the other creatures we met. But John and Steve and the "other" brothers were my favorites. 

As I think about this incredible experience that we had in Africa, I am reminded that we as onlookers had to abide by the guide's rules. He wasn't being mean or unrealistic. He was protecting us from what could have been very dangerous situations. As a result, I have a new sense of respect for a rifle and a well-trained leader. And I have a deeper love for God's creatures. 

Lord, we trust you with our lives. You know what is best for us. And as You guide us through the jungle, help us to see the dangers out there so that we can have a more healthy respect for them and for you, our protector. 

Brandon and Brandon

Tallest Land Mammal
May 25, 2017

Do you know who the first baseman is for the San Francisco Giants?

Brandon Belt

Do you know what his nickname is?

Baby Giraffe

Do you know how he got that name? Would it surprise you that not even my husband – Giants  fan extraordinaire – didn’t even know the source of it?

When Brandon was an up and coming player, he was playing in left field one day. He ran after a fly ball and the announcer for the Giants said he looked like a baby giraffe – apparently all legs – and it stuck.

Did you know that when a giraffe gave birth in 2011 at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in San Francisco, they named him Brandon Belt (and, in my estimation, should have nicknamed him, "rookie Giant").

Well here they are together. 

 

Here’s a really cute video of their first meeting:    Brandon meets Brandon

So let’s look at some fun facts about the magnificent giraffe (from mentalfloss.com).

• How fast can giraffes run?
  35 mph for short distances
•  
  
• How many pounds of food per day does an adult giraffe require?
  Over 75 pounds of leaves
•  
  
• How often do giraffes need to drink water?
  Because of the water found in the plants that they eat, they only need to drink water once every other day or so.
• What are the two most vulnerable positions for an adult giraffe?
  Tripod legged while drinking at the water hole. They have to really be on the lookout for lions.
  Curled up on the ground asleep. Which is why they only do that for about 6 minutes at a time. The rest of the time they sleep upright so they can flee at a moment’s notice.
•  
  
• After arriving in this world, how long does it take for a baby giraffe to stand up and even run?
  About one hour.
•  
  
• How long are the tongues of adult giraffes?
  About 20 inches. And they are darkly colored, possibly as a protection from sun exposure.
•  
  
• Do you know where the giraffe’s scientific name, Giraffa camelopardalis, comes from?
  Ancient Greeks thought they looked like camels wearing leopards’ coats.
• How many vertebrae are in the human neck?
  Five.
  How many are in the giraffe neck?
  Five. Each vertebra can measure up to ten inches long.
• How big is the adult giraffe’s heart?
  It is a whopping 25 pounds and is about 2 feet long. It is highly specialized because of the animal’s long neck. Also the vessels in the neck have one-way valves that prevent excessive bloodflow to the brain when the giraffe bends down to drink.
• How do giraffes defend themselves from a predator?
  They have two basic choices: kick them really hard and send them flying or RUN!

Well, I don’t want to bore you to death with trivia about this lanky animal but they are one of my top three favorite African creatures. I think they are wonderful.

Isn’t it interesting how different giraffes are from all the other animals? They are very distinctive.

My children used to sing a little song from the “Jungle Jam” track that had this verse and chorus in it:

I’ve got a long, long, long, long neck (that’s right).
I’ve got a long, long, long neck.
And I’m as proud as I can be
Of the neck God put on me.

Everybody’s special, including you and me.
God made us just the way he wanted us to be.

Lord, thank you for this beautiful, graceful, magnificent creature we call the giraffe. And thank you for making them so unique. We are reminded that your attention to detail for them pales in comparison to the care you have given us. We are your special creations. And you are very pleased with us.

Largest Land Mammal

Wednesday, May 24, 2017

What do you know about elephants?

• The tip of the African elephant trunk has two opposable extensions which act like fingers.
• The trunk of an elephant has something like 40,000 muscles and tendons.
• Elephants are born with ‘baby tusks’ which fall out and are replaced with permanent adult tusks which grow throughout life. 
• Elephants preferentially use their left or right tusk like people who are left or right-handed. 
• One molar of an adult can weigh 5 pounds. 
• Elephants don't have very good eyesight but on average they can hear calls of others from 2.5 miles away. 
• Elephants use their tusks and feet to sense vibrations and to "hear" better. 
• Elephants care for the wounded and grieve the dead.
• To greet returning friends, elephants spin in circles, flap their ears and trumpet.
• African savanna elephants have tusks that curve while African forest elephants have tusks pointing straight downward.
• Elephants are very wrinkly and have sparse hair across the body.
• Their skin can be an inch thick. 
• African elephants can live to be 70 years old in the wild.
• The African elephant population is estimated at around 470,000 individuals, however, numbers in the last century were estimated to be between 3 and 5 million. 
• Elephant pregnancies are the longest of any mammals, a full 22 months. Females (cows) generally have a single calf every 2 to 4 years. 
• At birth, baby elephants already measure 3 feet (1 meter) in height and weight a massive 200 pounds (91 kilograms).
• Their huge ears help keep African elephants cool in the African sunshine by radiating heat. 
• Elephant trunks can be used for smelling, breathing, trumpeting, drinking and grabbing things.

For some fun facts about elephants, click here.

When Will and I went to Africa a few years ago, I fell in love with the wildlife. Where we might see squirrels running around the yard there might be mongooses. In the game refuge we saw kudu and other antelope, zebras, hyenas, ostriches, birds, etc. My top three favorite, though, were the giraffes, the lions, and the elephants. 

One day while we were there, we drove out to the savanna to see what the animals were doing. We came across a herd of elephants at a watering hole. We just sat and watched them for awhile. 

One baby tried to nurse from the wrong mom. It didn't go over well. 

Two adolescents did a little sparring. One got knocked down but hope right back up to go at it again. 

One came over to check us out and stood a "trunk's distance" from the front of our vehicle. He waved his ears a little and sized us up. We sat very still as you can imagine. After a few minutes he went back to be with the others. 

What magnificent creatures elephants are. Simply magnificent. 

Lord, I love your creativity. You've made some pretty incredible creatures, not the least of which is the elephant. Thank you for blessing us with them. 

 

A Legacy of Goodness, Love, and Faithfulness

Tuesday, May 23, 2017

For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭100:5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

As I look back over the years, I can see many ways that God's hand has been on my life. He has blessed me beyond imagination. He has been so good to me and has shown me His unconditional love. 

He is faithful. God promised He would be with me until the end of time -- which is quite awhile! And I'm seeing that played out in my children

All three of my children have given their lives to the Lord. And God is showing me His goodness, love, and faithfulness now as He blesses my babies. 

Last fall God spared the life of my oldest son who became critically ill from pneumonia and sepsis. I think we all have a renewed sense of appreciation for life as a result. Today he is back to work and is doing well with his wife and children. 

My second son is thriving as a middle school teacher and coach. He and his wife are involved in Bible study together. He is a fine example for his students of what a man of God looks like. 

My youngest child just completed her freshman year at UK and did very well. But getting all As is not the only thing she has accomplished. She is in the process of learning that God wants to be involved in orchestrating everything in her life -- but she has to yield to Him. As a result, her new job at UK and her acceptance into nursing school all came at just the right time. 

God is good. He is love. And He is faithful. This was true for my grandparents, for my parents, for my sisters and me and our husbands, for our children, and for our grandchildren. 

Lord, thank you for being you and for spilling over onto me and my family. I look forward to how this will be evident for generations to come. 

 

That's Not Fair

Monday, May 22, 2017

When my children were little, occasionally this unfortunate phrase would come out of their mouths: "That's not fair!" It didn't take them long to realize that they could expect us to say one of two things to them in response:

• "Fair does not mean equal."
• "Oh, you don't want me to be fair! Trust me."

 

...The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. 
He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; 
he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. 
For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; 
as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭103:7-12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

This Scripture says so many things. But one of the things I see in it is that God doesn't treat us fairly. And that's a good thing. 

1. If my statement to my children is true and "fair doesn't mean equal," then I propose that God gives us what is appropriate for each of us individually. We don't all have the same issues or the same needs so He doesn't treat us all the same. 
2. If He were fair in dealing with us, then we would all get what we deserve. "He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities." I believe this is a direct reference to Jesus Christ for it is because of His sacrifice on the cross that my penalty has been paid. 
3. He loves us so much -- if I could spread my arms as wide as the heavens are from the earth, I could show you.
4. Once I trust in Him as my savior, God removes my sin from me forever. It is as far away as the east is from the west. 

It is important to realize that God is not sitting up there watching us and waiting for us to mess up so He can punish us. No. He is patient and kind, loving and slow to anger. 

At the same time we mustn't antagonize Him by intentionally breaking His rules. He loves us and we should show our love and respect by doing what He has commanded. 

Lord, help us to recognize our sin so that we can confess it and watch you hurl it into oblivion. Help us to make you proud. 

Memory Verse 2017 -- Week 20

Sunday, May 21, 2017

Abiding in Christ

 

I will extol the Lord at all times; 

his praise will always be on my lips.

Psalm 34:1

What does it mean to extol?

• praise enthusiastically
• wax lyrical about
• sing praises of
• acclaim
• exalt
• rave about
• show enthusiasm for 

Sometimes we get bogged down about insignificant things. 

Concentrate this week on the many blessings the Lord has showered on us. 

Spend the week focusing on this scripture:

• Read the verse in your Bible. 
• Read the passage before and after it. 
• Write it in your journal. 
• Ask the Lord to show you how it applies to your life. 
• Put it on a piece of paper and post it in a prominent place in your home so that you can see it often. 
• Put the words to music. Make up a tune or use one you already know. Singing always helps in the memory process. It's a left brain / right brain thing. 
• Always memorize the scripture reference with the verse so you can remember where to find it in the Bible. 

I am free!

Saturday, May 20, 2017

Some of you may know that my sisters and I donated a few items of my daddy's to the Library of Congress today. It was such a special experience first to tour the grand building and then to present daddy's World War II keepsakes to them. It's hard to fathom that someone might benefit from these articles one day. 

Seeing the various war exhibits and donating daddy's papers has made me think about my freedom. 

 

Daddy was a sailor -- a signalman on a command ship in the Pacific arena during Workd War II. 

 

(Zoom in on this little photo and you'll see daddy demonstrating a letter of the alphabet using flags.)

He was involved in several conflicts which he listed in his journal. 

 

I must never forget the price people like my daddy paid for my freedom. Some of them didn't come home. In fact, daddy assisted with a burial at sea that was captured on film. How sobering. 

But I also must remember the freedom I have because of the death of my Jesus. I must never forget to thank Him. Nor should I take my spiritual (or physical) freedom for granted. Without Jesus and countless veterans, my life would be hopeless!

Thank you, Jesus. 

Thank you men and women of the armed forces.

I know who I am!

Who Am I?

Friday, May 19, 2017

After exploring this question for the past four days I've come up with the answer. 

Who Am I?

I am ME. 

No one else has the genetics, the marriage, the profession, or the walk with God that I have. 

I am unique -- one of a kind (and some would say that's a good thing).

So how would you describe me?

• Patient? (that's kinda funny)
• Kind?
• Loving?
• Forthright?
• Considerate?
• Servant?
• Faithful?
• Smart?
• Trustworthy?
• Funny?
• Flexible?
• Creative?

If you would describe me using any of those words, I would consider that a complement. But in reality the only one I truly long to hear them from is my Lord. 

So what is your story? Who are you? I'd love to hear how God has shaped you. 

 

Who Am I?

Who Am I?

Thursday, May 18, 2017

In an effort to determine who I am we have looked at my genealogy, my marriage, and my profession. Today I want to look at who I am in the eyes of God.

I don't know about you but I feel like God formed me exactly the way he wanted me to be.

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1:27‬ ‭NIV‬‬

It stands to reason that since I am made in God's image, I must be pretty special in His eyes. 

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart....
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭1:5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

How cool is this? He knew me before I even knew myself. And He liked what I was so he set me apart for something special. Of course I messed it all up because of my sinful nature. Scripture says he loves me anyway:

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭5:8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

The Son of God took my sin upon himself and suffered through separation from God (hell) so I wouldn't have to. Why did He do that? According to the Romans passage, it is because of His love. Mind boggling!

But there's more. Not only did Christ purchase my freedom from hell with His own suffering and death, he adopted me into His family. 

So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.
Galatians‬ ‭4:7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

My daughter's birth has helped me understand this. When her adoption was final, Judge Jennings reminded us that she was henceforth a Fort. Her birth certificate lists Bill as her father and me as her mother. The judge specifically emphasized the fact that she was officially a joint heir with her brothers regarding any inheritance.

That's me. I am officially an adopted daughter of God Almighty. And I am entitled to all privileges afforded to His legal heirs. My inheritance? Abundant life!

Can't get much better than that!

Stick with me. I've got one more post about this tomorrow. Until then, enjoy your day! God loves you!

 

Who Am I?

Who Am I?

Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Part of who I am revolves around my profession. At the age of sixteen I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that I was supposed to be a pharmacist. And I have been practicing now for 35 years! (Whew, I'm getting old!)

Because of my availability to God as a pharmacist, I have met some wonderful people and have seen some incredible parts of the world. I have mentored countless students through the years and have developed several new programs at work. People know that if they have a logistical problem involving a medication, they can bring it to me and I'll figure out how to fix it. I love what I do and I have fun doing it. 

Part of who I am stems from the fact that God lead me to be a pharmacist. But part of the reason why I am a good pharmacist is because of who I am. 

 

 

Who Am I?

Who Am I?

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

As a continuation of yesterday's blog, here is something else that helps to define who I am. It has to do with marriage as opposed to genealogy.  

• I am Bill's wife. 
• By nature of his calling, I am a pastor's wife. 
• I was a daughter-in-law to Bill's parents. 
• I am a sister-in-law to Mike and John. 
• I am a mother-in-law to Holly and Klecenda. 

Before Bill and I got married, I thought I was ready to spend the rest of my life with him. And I was. Not only were we very secure in who we were individually but also who we were in Christ and as a couple. Neither of us made unrealistic demands of the other. We relinquished ultimate control of our lives to the Lord and neither of us tried to circumvent that. 

As a result we have grown to be the very best of friends. We laugh a lot and just enjoy life. To say that who I am is largely because of my marriage to Bill is a wonderful thing. We have each empowered the other to grow and develop into who we are today. 

I remember talking to Bill before our wedding about how concerned I was that he was going to be a pastor. For whatever reason I didn't quite see myself as a pastor's wife -- whatever that is. In his youthful wisdom he advised me to, "do the things you feel the Lord calling you to do and don't worry about pleasing anyone else but Him." When he pastored at his three churches, he made sure the people knew they were hiring him and not us. I think he was very wise. 

As a result of Bill's approach, I am very comfortable as this pastor's wife. I am aware of my spiritual gifts and I rely on God to show me where it is he wants to use them. So, yes, being married to my pastor-husband has helped me to become who I am today.

As far as in-laws go, I think this is another area that can't help but to shape you.

Willie and Nell Fort accepted me into their family as if I were their very own. They helped me to adjust to married life. Their flexibility and unselfishness helped us to be able to establish our own holiday traditions and family routines. Now they weren't particularly good about feeding the kids junk food at all hours of the day and night but that's another story for another day. They were good people and they treated me well. I only hope that when my days are over someone will be able to say that I was a good daughter-in-law, sister-in-law or mother-in-law as well.

Yes, my marriage is part of who I am. 

 

 

Who Am I?

Who Am I?

Monday, May 15, 2017

Have you ever asked yourself this question? We are going to spend a day or two looking at it. Let’s see where our question takes us.

I started thinking about this on Sunday so I’m going to start by looking at who I am based on genealogy.

Granddaughter:

Sam and Edith Nave and John and Louise Clement lived in the mountains of North Carolina. They raised my daddy and my mother and were wonderful grandparents.

Daughter:

Wallace and Pat Nave had three daughters. I can share countless stories of my childhood and young adult years with my family. Genetics does play a part in determining who I am. But environment during the formative years is also important. And mine was wonderful.

Sister:

Lynne and Rachel paved the way for me, their baby sister. Together we have made some beautiful music and will always be the best of friends.

Mother:

Will, Patrick, and Lizzie call me mom. They definitely help to define me. I have given them 30 years of my life and they have completed my life in many ways.

Grandmother:

Emily and Dakota are very special to me. I am so blessed to be able to spend time with them. And I love to hear them say, "I love you, Grammy."

Family helps to tell me who I am both because of genetics and environment. I wear several hats in the family model and I’m fine with that.

Lord, thank you for my family – past, present, and future. Thank you for the ways You have taught me through them. Help me to be the best sister, mother, and grandmother that I can be. 

 

 

 

Memory Verse 2017 -- Week 19

Sunday, May 14, 2017

Abiding in Christ

 

If you remain in me and my words remain in you, 

ask whatever you wish, 

and it will be done for you.

John 15:7 

You stay close to God...

You hide His words in your heart...

You'll know what to ask for. 

When we were little girls we knew our daddy very well. We knew without a shadow of a doubt that he loved us. Unconditionally. We knew what we could ask for and what was better left alone. For instance, we never got the horse we longed for. And we knew not to ask for a new car when we turned sixteen. We were grateful to share the family vehicles. Yet we never once doubted his love for us. 

So it is with God. The more we know Him the more we understand His ways. And the more we know what not to ask for and what will be within His will to grant us. 

Savor this verse. It is sweet. 

Spend the week focusing on this scripture: 

• Read the verse in your Bible. 
• Read the passage before and after it. 
• Write it in your journal. 
• Ask the Lord to show you how it applies to your life. 
• Put it on a piece of paper and post it in a prominent place in your home so that you can see it often. 
• Put the words to music. Make up a tune or use one you already know. Singing always helps in the memory process. It's a left brain / right brain thing. 
• Always memorize the scripture reference with the verse so you can remember where to find it in the Bible. 

Top Twelve Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Kentucky

Saturday, May 13, 2017

 

We like to hike and it's always fun to take the puppies with us. A couple of weeks ago we went to the Pinnacles in Berea -- 4 humans and 3 canines. One of them ended up in a backpack for the last third of the journey up. But we all made it down on our own 2/4 feet. 

• Louisville River Walk
• Garvin Brown Preserve and Dog Exercise Area (Louisville, KY) 
• Giles Conrad Dog Park (Hebron, KY)
• Mammoth Cave National Park (Mammoth Cave, KY)
• Cadiz Railroad Trail (Cadiz, KY)
• Green River Lake State Park (Campbellsville, KY)
• Muhlenburg County Rail-Trail (Greenville, KY)
• Muhlenburg County Rail-Trail (Central City, KY)
• White Plains Trail (White Plains, KY)
• Big Bone Luck State Park (Union. KY)
• Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest (Clermont, KY)
• John James Audubon State Park (Henderson, KY)

Whether you walk your dog in your own neighborhood or in the nearby woods, get some exercise together. You'll both sleep better later!

KY State Parks

 

Friday, May 12, 2017

Yesterday I listed the National Parks in Kentucky. Unfortunately, I'm not sure I got them all. But it was a good list nevertheless.

Today I've got the State Parks in Kentucky.
Something I read on the Internet said that Kentucky has the most state parks of any of the other states in the country. And we have 50. These are just the resorts:

• Barren River Lake State Resort Park (Lucas, KY)
• Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park (Carlisle, KY)
• Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park (Buckhorn, KY)
• Carter Caves State Resort Park (Olive Hill, KY)
• Cumberland Falls State Resort Park (Corbin, KY)
• Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park (Burkesville, KY)
• General Butler State Resort Park (Carrollton, KY)
• Greenbo Lake State Resort Park (Greenup, KY)
• Jenny Wiley State Resort Park (Prestonsburg, KY)
• Kenlake State Resort Park (Hardin, KY)
• Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park (Gilbertsville, KY)
• Lake Barkley State Resort Park (Cadiz, KY)
• Lake Cumberland State Resort Park (Jamestown, KY)
• Natural Bridge State Resort Park (Slade, KY)
• Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park (Dawson Springs, KY)
• Pine Mountain State Resort Park (Pineville, KY)
• Rough River Dam State Resort Park (Falls of Rough, KY)

 

When I was a girl, we used to spend our summer vacations camping somewhere. So we've been to many of these parks. I have fond memories of singing around a campfire, trying to get the skunk smell off of our dog, mother cooking fried chicken on a Coleman stove, listening to the crickets at night, trying not to touch the inside of the tent when it rained, going horseback riding on the not-so-spry state park horses, etc.

One summer, my parents and I took a newlywed couple to Barren River State Park to go skiing. Daddy put the boat in the water and it refused to start. He worked on it forever and couldn't figure out the problem. So we loaded up the boat and drove to one of the beaches on the lake. As we drove through the parking lot -- boat in tow -- Daddy ran over somebody's car with our boat. It was the funniest thing -- well, not at the time. (He cut a corner a little too tightly and the side of our boat went up over the front quarter panel of a parked car.) Then mother and I were walking to the beach in the sand and the lid came off of the Tupperware dish containing her newly fried chicken. All the chicken landed in the sand. I thought I was going to cry. We ended up having a picnic with what was left of our food sitting on a blanket in the sand at the beach wondering how on earth anything else could have gone wrong that day.

Just a few days later, I went on my first date with the most wonderful boy in the world and he got to hear the blow-by-blow description of what happened that day at Barren River Lake. We definitely didn't have to think of things to talk about that night.

That boy was from Cadiz, KY -- home of the Lake Barkley State Resort Park. A year later I spent the summer working as a waitress in their coffee shop.

And now my sister's farm is across from the Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park. We've stayed there a time or two over the years.

Yes, I have fond memories from some of Kentucky's state parks. We are truly blessed to have such beautiful places to visit so close to home.

Summer Vacation Spots in Kentucky

National Parks in Kentucky

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Where shall we go for a vacation this summer? Did you know there are 10 National Parks/Forests/Refuges in Kentucky? And we have over 1 million acres of national wilderness.

 

Red River Gorge Geological Area

Stanton, KY

 

Reelfoot Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Hickman, KY

 

Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail

Morehead, KY

 

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Stearns, KY

 

Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge

Benton, KY

 

Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

Middlesboro, KY

 

Daniel Boone National Forest 

Cumberland Ranger District

Morehead, KY

 

Daniel Boone National Forest 

London Ranger District

London, KY

 

Daniel Boone National Forest 

Redbird Ranger District

Manchester, KY

 

Daniel Boone National Forest 

Stearns Ranger District

Whitley City, KY

 

Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave, KY

Jefferson National Forest

Whitesburg, KY

 

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Golden Pond, KY

Types of activities available:

• Boating
• Fishing
• Camping
• Hiking
• Zip lining

Places to stay:

• Hotels on the park grounds
• Hotels nearby
• Campgrounds on park grounds 
• Wilderness camping 

How many of these places have you visited?

Don't we have a gorgeous state?!!

What's your favorite color, Baby?

BLUE and WHITE

Wednesday, May 10, 2017

(Ok. You'd probably have to be a U.K. fan to catch that today's title is from a sports cheer. Just put that aside....)

I love GREEN. 

I love the green of a rice field in the sun. There's nothing more vivid. 

Unless it's BLUE. 

And there are so many shades of blue: 

   Sky blue

   Turquoise blue

   Caribbean blue

   Royal blue

   Navy blue (which is too dark for me)

   Baby blue (which is too pale for me)

No. There's nothing quite like blue. 

Unless it is YELLOW. 

Daffodils just make me smile. They are  warm and cheery like the sun. 

When I draw, I tend to use bright pink, apple green, bold orange, and yellow together a lot. So maybe they are my favorites. I don't know. 

The bottom line is that I like bold, bright colors. 

What does this have to do with anything? Well, nothing. It's just that I love bright, vivid colors. I find them to be invigorating and happy. 

Can you imagine not being able to see these wonderful colors? Sometimes I think people who have not discovered the love of Christ are stuck in a dull, dreary world. I think it is because of our fellowship with the Creator that we are able to truly take in His color. 

Lord, help us to enjoy your creation and your amazing colors. And help us to show others the way to You. 

May flowers

Tuesday, May 9, 2017

If April showers bring May flowers,

What do May flowers bring?

   □    Pilgrims

   □    June bugs

   □    Allergies

   □    All of the above

Although technically all of these answers are correct, I’m not going to elaborate on the Pilgrims or the insects.

Today I’m looking at allergies.

I’ve said for the longest time that my husband is allergic to MAY.

Almost like clockwork, when spring arrives, his nose, eyes, and throat go just a little bit nuts. And he is miserable.

What are the big contributors to allergy symptoms?

In the spring it tends to be trees that produce lightweight pollen:

·  Oak

·  Western red cedar

·  Sycamore

·  Maple

·  Elm

·  Birch

·  Ash

·  Cypress

·  Walnut

·  Hickory

·  Poplar

 

In the fall it tends to be weeds:

·  Ragweed

·  Ragweed

·  Ragweed

So what can you do if you are plagued with seasonal allergies?

First, I guess it would be best for me to say that you should always double check with your doctor before you start self-medicating.

Or you can check with your pharmacist.

Oh, yeah. That’s what I am! 

And all kidding aside, there are several disease states that will prevent some people from taking certain over-the-counter products. So you really do need to be careful.

But for the general run-of-the-mill allergy symptoms for the general public, here are some things that you can try.

Anti-histamines:

These make sense because pollen causes a histamine release in the body. Anti-histamines counter act that. My favorite for short term use are chlorpheniramine (generic ChlorTrimeton) and diphenhydramine (generic Benadryl). These tend to make a lot of people drowsy, though. So loratadine (generic Claritin), cetirizine (generic Zyrtec) or any of the other non-drowsy anti-histamines might do the trick.

Decongestants:

These help to open up nasal passages and ear tubes. But they can make people a little hyper or cause an increase in blood pressure or mess with your thyroid medication. So be careful. My favorite is pseudoephedrine (generic Sudafed). You’ll find several products over the counter like Sudafed-PE or Actifed-PE. These don’t have pseudoephedrine but phenylephrine – and they aren’t as good. No, you’ll have to buy pseudoephedrine at the pharmacy by providing your driver’s license and signing your life away saying you won’t make illicit street drugs out of it. Not to worry. Pseudoephedrine in and of itself is very save and does a great job of opening you up.

Nasal sprays:

Phenylephrine (generic Neo-Synephrine) and oxymetazoline (generic Afrin) are the two most common nasal decongestants over the counter. If you feel like you need to use these, then I recommend that you use them once a day for no more than 3-4 days. Rebound congestion occurs pretty quickly with these sprays so be careful with them.

Also several steroid nasal sprays are available over the counter. Just be sure to take them as directed on the package.

Nasal rinse:

This is one of the most bizarre things – run a steady stream of normal saline into one nostril and it will run out of the other one. Proponents of this treatment say that it rinses pollen and other substances from the nasal passages. It is available in the OTC cough and cold section of the pharmacy in a couple of different forms.

Hard candy:

Did you know you can get just as much relief from a sore throat by sucking on hard candy as you can a cough drop? It is the sugar in the cough drop that soothes the throat. So you might as well just pick up a package of your favorite hard candy to have on hand. Don’t chew it up. It needs to dissolve slowly. Use caution if you are a diabetic. And be careful sleeping with a lozenge or a piece of hard candy in your mouth.

Night time coughing:

Isn’t it crazy how the moment you put your head on your pillow at night, you start coughing? That’s because of the drainage that is going down the back of your throat. And it can be very bothersome. In addition to using an anti-histamine to dry you up, Guiafenesin with dextromethorphan (generic Robitussin DM) or plain dextromethorphan (generic Delsym) are two cough medicines you can use to try to suppress a cough. I recommend that you only do that at night when you are trying to sleep. It’s just not a good idea to try to suppress a cough during the day. You need to get that crud out of your lungs

.

My favorite thing to do for that nighttime tickle in my throat is to drink a soft drink. I recommend a caffeine free, diet beverage. Keep it on your bedside table and take a few swigs to quieten your cough.

Pain relievers:

Acetaminophen (generic Tylenol), Ibuprofen (generic Motrin, Advil), or Naproxen (generic Aleve) are good for aches and discomforts that so often accompany allergies. Use them as directed on their packages.

There are probably another 6-8 things you can try to help lessen the symptoms of seasonal allergies – vitamins, minerals, etc – but these are my favorites. And my husband and I use them every year.

If seasonal allergies tend to bother you, then I would recommend keeping these meds on hand all the time. You never know when allergies are going to kick in and it is really good if you already have the meds you’ll need.

Hope this helps.