Mary in Alabama

I can't think of a title for this one. Any suggestions?

2011-08-17T20:55:00.004-05:00

When I first started going to church, I felt that I didn't belong there because I felt that none of these Christians (especially the ones who had been in church since they were in the womb) could possibly have had sins as big as mine or problems as bad as mine.

Time, going to church, and working in a church office have taught me that everyone has sins and in God's eyes, no sin is bigger than another. And I have also learned that EVERYONE has problems. Just because you go to church doesn't mean that you won't have problems. Instead, it means that you have a church family who will be there for you, let you lean on them, and who will pray for you. It's when we hide our problems by trying to appear to be the "perfect" that we as Christians that negate the awesomeness of a church family. Why can we pray for everyone else but not let our guard down and admit that we need prayer, too?

Jesus asked His closest friends to pray for Him in the Garden of Gethsemane. That is a major example of just how important prayer is. If the Son of God needed the prayers of His friends, do we not need the prayers of our friends lifted up for us?

Christians, we need to be real. We need to let down our guards and ask for prayer when we need it. It doesn't mean that you are a bad Christian if you have a problem. We should show the world that being a Christian doesn't mean that you'll never sin again or that you'll never have problems again, but that being a Christian means that we have a Heavenly Father who loves us and cares about our lives and who wants us to turn to Him when we're in need. It also means that we have people who love us enough to pray for us and our problems.

Let's show the world what "real" Christians look like.

Are You Busy?

2011-07-23T20:44:00.002-05:00

The other day, I waited the entire day for my doctor's office to return a call because I needed to update them on everything that had been going on. FINALLY, at 7:45 p.m., his assistant called to tell me that I can start back on my antibiotics. As I tried to update her on all the complications to the Lyme Disease that I'd been having over the past 2 weeks, she remarked, "I don't have time to listen to this! I have 10 more phone calls to make and I want to go home!"

I am SO thankful that my Heavenly Father is available 24/7. He never says that He is too busy to listen. And even though He takes care of everything and everyone, He still cares about me. Thank You, Lord!

Throughout our busy lives, let's take time to make the time to really FOCUS on other people and their needs/concerns. They may be sick or have other worries on their mind. If we can't take time to listen, they'll think we don't care. Let's be more like our Heavenly Father and less like the doctor's assistant.

In Christ's love and patience,

Mary in Alabama

:-)

Time Flies

2011-07-20T23:36:00.002-05:00

Wow! Can't believe it's been over a year since I blogged. This will be a short one.

I'm gonna be a Grammy again in March 2012. I'm so excited!!!

IF I can pass Finite Math this fall, I will graduate with with honors from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa in May 2012.

I am a Lyme Disease survivor. I used to say that lightly, but because my symptoms have come back, I have had to find a Lyme Doctor to treat it. It's difficult to make a 5-hour trip each way once every 3 months, but if it will completely cure me, then that's what I'm willing to do. And the doctor says he can CURE me of this disease. However, it will take at least an entire year of antiobiotics to do it. Right now, I am fighting migrating joint pain. One day it is in my knee, several days later it is in my hand and fingers. Last week, I missed an entire week because of a rash over 75% of my body, combined with the joint pain. (No, Bobby, it wasn't poison ivy!) Went back to work on Monday with only a swollen knee but ended up in the ER Tuesday night because of the swelling and pain in my hand and knee. After 3 shots and 2 prescriptions, I can now type a little. Going back to work tomorrow. I gotta get better...I'm supposed to go to Ohio 2 weeks from Ohio to see my family, and I really want to go!

Loved the saying in the docgtor's office, "When life give you Lymes, make Key Lime Pie!" However, I would rather use the words from Jeremiah 21:12: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future."

Hope you have a wonderful day!

Mary in Alabama

CARING

2010-03-11T09:41:00.002-06:00

Buster's nephew Chris would have turned 21 today. Unfortunately, cancer robbed him of the opportunity to grow old. I lost my Uncle Ralph to cancer 2 weeks ago. He was 77, but that doesn't matter. Cancer robbed him of the remainder of his life. If you don't normally give to Relay for Life to support cancer research, please do so! We need to find a cure for this awful disease! One more thing...Uncle Ralph had a nurse's aide at the hospital who cared enough to share Jesus with him. Hearing the story of Ralph's salvation was enough to re-light my fire about the urgency of not missing opportunities to share the Gospel--because we never know how much time the other person has. May God pour out His blessings upon all of you! Mary T.

Update

2009-12-10T21:41:00.002-06:00

Well, it's been almost 2 months since my last blog, so I guess I'd better update. Alabama won the SEC championship and is now #1 in the nation. ROLL TIDE!!! My health is improving and I'm feeling better than I have in almost 2 years (other than the fact that I have to get my gallbladder out next week). My grandbabies are wonderful. I will post new pictures soon. My kids are doing well, too. It's been 20 years and I am still in love with my husband. Except he's a JERK because we've been dieting and he's lost about 50 pounds, while I've only lost around 20! I took my last final of the semester today. Whoo hoo! Of course, I don't know if I passed my classes yet but will find out in a week or so. The University of Alabama is WAY harder than the University of Phoenix was! Next semester I have American History, American Lit, Pre-Calculus, and Biology, Part II (that's IF I passed Biology, Part I). As of today, I am officially off from school until January 6th. I'm so excited, but I won't know what to do with myself because there won't be anything to do in the evenings. All of my tv shows have ended their seasons. Here's the recap: Biggest Loser -- I really didn't want that arrogant, conceited girl to win!!! Brothers and Sisters -- Is Kitty going to die? If so, I'll take Robert, LOL! Desperate Housewives -- Will everyone live? That show is SO much better than I ever thought it would be! Oh yeah, update on the brat cats. There are no breakable ornaments on my tree this year. They think decorating the tree is a game. I decorate it -- and they undecorate it! And I caught one of the laying across a row of branches! And Esme keeps jumping up on top of the bird's cages and then getting on the fireplace mantel. Alice, my blue-eyed hound dog is SO much better than the brat cats! If I tell her to go and sit on her blanket, she will. And she has to be covered up at night by blankets. The birds are good, but loud. We never did get the two other parrots that the lady at church was going to give us. Did you know we have a squirrel? Her name is Buzz. Chris brought her to us a couple of weeks before he died. Buster has that squirrel spoiled rotten! (But she loves "the Mama" too!) Oh well, guess I'll go to bed. Love to all! Mary in Alabama Guess that's all for now.

Updates

2009-10-18T21:05:00.002-05:00

Sorry...it's been WAY too long since I blogged. Today makes 20 years since mine and Buster's first date. 20 years...can you believe it? Me, neither. I am so thankful that God put him in my life. The times haven't always been easy but we have made it through them together. And I love him even more than I did then. Addisyn is 10 months old and likes her Grammy now. I can say, "Where's Pop-Pop?" and she looks around for Buster. Oh, and she LOVES craft shows. We spent 4 hours at one last month and she was SO good! She looks just like a little baby doll with her dark hair and pretty blue eyes. Bryant is 5 1/2 and in kindergarten. I am constantly amazed at his vocabulary. Brandalyn is 9 1/2 (OMG! She's 9 1/2!!!!) and just so wonderful. We recently spent an afternoon working on Halloween decorations for my house. I would 10 times rather have something my grandkids made than any of the fancy decorations in the world. We glittered some ghosts ... and there was glitter everywhere -- especially all over the ghosts and all over the table & floor. The ghosts are cute. I'll post some pictures soon. Then they painted. Bryant painted a little vampire boy and Brandalyn painted a little girl witch. I'll post pictures of those, too. They're cute. They also each painted a wooden pumpkin. Yes, I'll be posting pictures of those, too. They made such cute decorations in my living room. Kyle's girlfriend Annette has a little boy named Justin that will soon turn 2. When they get married someday, he will be my grandson. And I am SO excited about that because he is so CUTE! I love being a grandma -- I want at least 100

My Exciting News

2009-08-11T20:51:00.002-05:00

Well, it's official ... I got my acceptance certificate from The University of Alabama today and should start next week for my online Bachelor's in General Business. It's a thrill for someone my age (50) to get accepted at a major university. ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so thrilled and can now pick at Bob all the time about Ohio State.

Words of Wisdom

2009-07-13T12:27:00.002-05:00

On Saturday I bought a Karen Kingbury's book that I'd never read before. It was a fictional story about a guy whose firefighter father had been killed in the 9/11 attacks. After the attacks, the man became a policeman to help fight crime and prevent other people from losing their loved ones to criminals and terrorists. One thing that really stayed with me from the book was the concept that in this world it is not our main job to focus on trying to stop all the evil in the world. Instead, our main job is to focus on trying to stop all of the evil inside of ourselves. WOW! What a concept! What words of wisdom! When we look inside ourselves and get rid of the junk and nastiness, then we show the world what being a Christian is truly all about. How we are inside is what people notice. A cop could put every criminal in the world in jail, but if the cop is evil and nasty inside, that is what is remembered. For instance, a cop could have a brilliant 20-year career, but if he messes up, it will be the thing he messed up that is remembered and the rest of the 20 years is forgotten. So my goal for myself for today and every day is to GET THE YUCK OUT!!!! Mary

Updates

2009-07-13T12:19:00.003-05:00

Gosh, I didn't realize how long it had been since I blogged. I've been busy with VBS and then trying to get everything done before going to Ohio for vacation. Chris passed away. Buster's dad's birthday party is going to be so strange without Chris. Only 20 years old. Gosh, I HATE cancer! My Uncle Jimmy has recently been diagnosed with cancer, too. I REALLY HATE cancer! We've been home from our Ohio vacation for about a week now. I enjoy my time there so much that it's hard to leave to come back to Alabama. The O'Leary family reunion in Wellston was great -- I think they said 83 people attended. For those of you who don't particularly enjoy family reunions, please keep in mind that the reunions are SO important because staying connect with family is important. I enjoyed the time I spent at my sister Carol's house. She and I did not get along for so many years that I cherish every moment we get to spend together now. Her husband Fred is so good to her. I enjoyed the time I spent at my brother Butch's house. I love playing cornhole!!!!! I love sitting in Butch & Annie's back yard and watching the deer. I enjoyed the time that I spent with my nieces, nephews, and their families. I feel like I know them all so much better since they got MySpace sites and/or blogs. And I just love all those kids!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Anyway, that's it for now. Mary

2009-06-02T19:41:00.002-05:00

REST IN PEACE

Christopher John Turner

March 11, 1989 - June 2, 2009

I hate cancer!!!!!!!!!!!

Update on Chris

2009-05-28T18:57:00.002-05:00

Chris' time on earth is almost over. He told his grandfather this morning that he loved him and would see him in heaven. He is still bleeding internally but the doctors have stopped the transfusions. His new wife, Melissa, lies beside him in the bed at the hospital. Tonight is graduation at the school Chris attended. Chris graduated from that school only 2 years ago -- only 2 years! He will not be there tonight when his cousin graduates nor will he be there next year when his sister graduates. He will never know the joy of children, grandchild, or growing old. Growing old is fun because you can say what you want and everyone just thinks you're senile. I wish Chris had gotten to grow old. Tonight when you go to bed, hug your child, your parents, your sister or brother. Tell them that you love them. You never know when it will be the last time you hug them before you (or they) are in heaven. Thank you, Jesus, for soothing my hurting heart. You did all you did for us! Aunt Mary

Updates

2009-05-24T07:32:00.002-05:00

Please continue to pray for Chris (Buster's greatnephew who has cancer). He is only 20. He is in the final stages of cancer and the family was called in. He is still awake but says that the whole situation is scary for him. Please pray that God will take away his fear. Pray also that God will take away his pain, as he is in a lot of pain from all the tumors. Pray for his new wife Melissa (they got married at the hospital almost 2 weeks ago) and for his parents, sister, grandparents, friends and relatives. It's just so darned hard to lose someone so young. I HATE CANCER!!!!!!! It's why I Relay. Two weeks ago we lost a girl that Pat & I used to teach in GA's. Her name was Jessica and she was only 23. She had 2 children. It just tore me up to walk up to that casket and see her like that (she still had her freckles and pretty red hair). I told her grandmother that I sure will miss my mean little Jessica. She was one of my favorites. But I rejoice that we have a loving God who welcomed Jessica home and will welcome Chris home, too. What would we have done without Jesus' sacrifice. Thank you, God, for sending Him. And thank You, Jesus, for being so willing to die for my sins! ON A BRIGHTER NOTE.... My "baby" boy Kyle turned 25 yesterday. A quarter of a century. Wow! He is now the age that I was when I had him. And what a wonderful, caring, man he has turned into. He is so good to the 2 little girls that are staying with us. I know he's looking forward to a wonderful future with Annette and her son Justin someday. I'll post the video of him opening his birthday card either here or on my MySpace. The card is hilarious. I couldn't give it to him yesterday (I couldn't remember where I'd put it. Old age, huh?) UPDATE ON MY LIFE.... The "honeymoon" phase of the girls staying with us has worn off for them. They are now typical kids -- throwing tantrums and being disrespectful. I love them anyway. I graduate college 2 weeks from today. Whoo-hoo! I've started my classes already towards my bachelor's degree and then plan to go on and get my master's. God did not intend for us to go to Savannah. Originally, Buster & I were scheduled to go the week of the 11th, but couldn't become we would have had to take the girls out of school. So, we rescheduled for this weekend (Memorial Day). We kept the girls out of school and headed to Georgia. We weren't even in Georgia yet when we got the call that Chris was bleeding internally again. We decided to press on because we didn't want to disappoint the girls about going to the beach. But when we heard that the family had been called in for Chris, we turned around in Douglasville and headed home. I really hated to disappoint the girls. But they have grown up with a mother whose priorities are not right but taking them to Savannah while Chris was in such bad shape would have taught them that our/their fun is more important than family and doing the right thing. Yes, they were disappointed. The oldest one made a comment about how "everytime she plans to do something, it gets cancelled". She'll realize someday that we were right. So we met their grandmother after we got back and let her take the girls for the weekend. By the time we got home, I was shivering and shaking. I had woken up Wednesday with a sore throat. By Thursday, I just felt exhausted. Friday morning I woke up with a severe headache and achy joints. I thought, "No problem, just the beginnings of a migraine and achy joints from where I had had Lyme Disease." So I popped one of my migraine pills and didn't say anything. So...when we got home and I took my temperature, it was almost 104. Saturday morning I still felt crappy and debated about whether or not I should go to the doctor or tough it out on my own (I HATE going to the doctor when I'm sick -- I hate waiting to be seen). Anyway, I felt so bad that I decided to go. Of course, my doctor's office had closed an hour before I got there (it's a walk-in clinic). The other walk-in clinic was closed, too. Finally, last night I went to an after-hours emergency clinic. It's a good thing that I did. I have pneumonia. They gave me some shots and prescriptions. One of the shots was a steriod. Did I ever tell you that steriods make me hyper???? Welll, they do! First, I laid in bed and prayed for about an hour. Then I got up and read an entire book. After that, I laid in the recliner with my eyes wide open. Then I tried to go back to bed again. But I hadn't shaved my legs for a few days and so my legs itched and I couldn't sleep. (Okay, I know that's gross, but when you don't feel good, you don't care. You should have seen what I wore to the doctor's office. LOL! And I also didn't wear any makeup all day -- not even when I went shopping for Kyle's birthday present. Finally, I just got back up and checked all 4 of my email accounts, posted to my online forum for school, printed out this week's assignments, checked my MySpace, and read everyone's blogs. It's 8AM now, I guess I'll go take a shower and make me some hot tea and get my day started. I need to get as much done as possible because when that shot wears off (hopefully by this evening), I'm going to bed!!!!!!!!!!! Love y'all! Aunt Mary

It's RELAY FOR LIFE Time!!!!

2009-04-17T12:05:00.001-05:00

Hi, everyone! Are you ready to help find a cure for cancer? All you have to do is click the link below to donate: http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY09MS?team_id=383023&pg=team&fr_id=15767 Together we CAN find a cure!!!

I'm a great-aunt again!!!

2009-04-06T12:25:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Bob & Miranda on the birth of their son, Alexander James Speakman, born today 4/6/09. Maleah is now a big sister. My brother Butch is lucky ... he got a grandson for his birthday. I'm so jealous!

Update on my life

2009-03-30T21:54:00.002-05:00

Hi, everyone! I can't believe that I haven't blogged since February. Someday I'll get better at this. Maybe I'll start blogging 3 things like Bob does. Things are going well. I am halfway through my last class. I'll get my Associates Degree on June 7 (I think that's the date...anyway, it's a Saturday). I am currently taking Algebra 1B and have a 95. Whoo hoo! My last day is May 3rd and then I start on my Bachelors two weeks later. I'll finish that in August of 2010 and then I may even pursue my MBA so that I can work from home and be an online instructor. One major change that we've had in our lives is that for the past 3 weeks we have had 2 girls from church living with us -- ages 5 & 11 (she'll actually be 12 on April 1st). They are WONDERFUL kids and so much fun!!! Buster has the youngest one go "catfishing" in the evenings. They take a jumprope, launch one end across the room, and see how many of the cats latch onto it. They caught an 18-pounder once tonight! LOL! My favorite thing is when we hold hands in a circle before bedtime and pray together. The littlest one always wants to pray first and she'll start out with: "God, thank you for Mrs. Mary and Mr. Buster and Kyle..." It just melts my heart. The older girl is wonderful, too. She has an enthusiasm for God and loves going to church. When they first started going to our church several years ago, she would sit next to me and fill out her bulletin insert during the sermon (remember...she was only 9 years old!). I would catch her just gazing up at me sometimes. I know they won't get to stay here forever, but they have been such a blessing in my life and I'm grateful for the time I have been allowed to spend with them. If only each family in a church would take a child under their wing that has a bad home life, it would allow them to see what a family is SUPPOSED to be and may even change their lives. We put the older girl and another girl the same age in Upward Cheerleading this year. They LOVED it and it was great to watch their confidence grow. We bought their tennis shoes and their cheerleading pictures. Every week we gave them a dollar or two to spend at the concession stand. Sometimes we went out to eat after practice or the games. Please pray for my two little angels. They are so precious and deserve a good family life. Pray for their mother (who loves them, too, but doesn't provide a clean and healthy environment for them to live in) -- pray that she will open her eyes and realize what a wonderful gift that God has given her. And pray that my heart won't break in two when they leave because I know that they will either go back home or to their grandmother's house to live. My house will be oh so quiet and lonely when they're gone. Thank you, God, for this wonderful opportunity I have been given to show them Your love.

Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T22:25:00.002-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day to one and all! It's a day that makes some happy, some sad, some nostalgic, and some glad. I'm glad for several reasons... ... Today is mine and Buster's 17th wedding anniversary. We've had some good times and some bad times, but we've always managed to stay together. He's my best friend and my knight in shining armor all wrapped up into one. How many men do you know who get up in the morning and fix their wife some hot tea to start her day? ... I'm glad to have experienced the joys of motherhood (and sorrows and anger, and every other emotion that goes along with it). We may want to choke our kids sometimes (even after they turn into adults) but life would not have been as good without them. ... I'm glad to be a "Grammy". WOW! There is nothing else quite like it in the whole, wide world. .. But most of all, I'm glad to know that there was someone who loved me enough to willingly die on a cross for my sins so that someday I could go to heaven. Thank You, Jesus, for loving me that much!!!! ... To my family and friends -- thank you for your kindness and love. May this Valentine's Day be your best ever. And to those of you who feel like no one loves them ... there is Someone who loves them very much. Just pick up a Bible and read John 3:16.

My oldest granddaughter Brandalyn

2009-01-27T12:10:00.003-06:00

Hi, all! Just thought I'd write and share some good news with you for a change. Brandalyn is getting baptized on Sunday, February 1st. I am so excited -- it's something I have been praying about for a long time. Brandalyn turns 9 on January 31st. Can you believe it???? Me, neither. In 6 years she'll get her driver's permit. Yeah, in Alabama they let them drive at 15 -- scary thought. I love my "Brandalyn and Me" time, although the times are very few and far between. We'll sit together and watch movies and make crafts. Any of you nieces remember those "Aunt Mary and Me" times? Anyway, this old lady is going to go study some Algebra.

Update

2009-01-08T23:12:00.002-06:00

So much has changed since I last updated my blog..... ..... I have a new granddaughter--Addisyn Grace Hammonds--I'll get some pictures up soon. ..... Alabama is no longer #1 in the nation--those dumb old Gators are. ..... And a big announcement that I will wait and post Wednesday after it's official. ..... And a BIGGER announcement--I will be graduating on June 7th, 2009, with my Associates Degree in General Studies. By that day, I will already be working on my Bachelors Degree in Business. WHOO HOO!

Still #1

2008-11-29T22:18:00.002-06:00

The University of Alabama Crimson Tide is still #1 after CRUSHING Auburn 36-0. Next week they will crush the Florida Gators and then play for the National Championship. ROLL TIDE!!!!

Okay, I have a pirate name now

2008-11-10T12:16:00.003-06:00

Do you read other people's blogs? Apparently you do, because you're reading mine!!! Anyway, I was reading the BobBlog and for fun clicked on one he subscribes to. It had this link to learn your pirate name. The info is below....

My pirate name is:

Mad Mary Kidd

Every pirate is a little bit crazy. You, though, are more than just a little bit. Even though you're not always the traditional swaggering gallant, your steadiness and planning make you a fine, reliable pirate. Arr!

Get your own pirate name from piratequiz.com.
part of the fidius.org network

Does it suit me? I'd love to know...... Mad Mary Kidd

We're #1

2008-11-02T20:22:00.000-06:00

The University of Alabama's Crimson Tide football team is #1. ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!

And you thought I didn't have a heart!!!!!

2008-09-08T15:55:00.000-05:00

For all of you who thought I didn't have a heart, now I have proof that I do. I'm having a heart cath tomorrow and they may put a stent in. Maybe I'll be back to normal (what is normal for me????????????????) soon. Pray that the doctor has a steady hand and that he's not drunk when he performs the procedure!! Love y'all! Aunt Mary

My granddaughter is a winner!

2008-08-07T19:55:00.000-05:00

Brandalyn won a limo ride for her first day of 3rd Grade today from our local radio station.

We'll Praise God in the Good Times & the Bad Times

2008-08-06T11:46:00.000-05:00

* Good Times: My daughter, Brandi, is having a girl. Due date is December 14. Baby's name will be Addison Grace. Bad Times: Now they're saying there is something wrong with my heart...blockage or problems from the Lyme/RMSF. Have had tests, tests, and more tests. Am not supposed to be in the heat or exercising too strenuously. Will keep everyone update. Good Times: God is ALWAYS faithful and ALWAYS has a plan. I trust Him no matter what! Mary

God is so good!

2008-07-26T21:27:00.000-05:00

I'm SLOWLY getting better from Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever & Lyme Disease. Still run fever off and on. Still have achy joints. But I am getting stronger. We found out yesterday that Brandi is having a girl and the baby's name will be Addison Grace. I love my grandkids. I want 100 of them! God has truly blessed me with a wonderful husband, 3 great kids, and 2 1/2 wonderful grandkids. Have a wonderful Sunday!

M-Fuge

2008-07-08T23:15:00.000-05:00

Greetings from Charleston, South Carolina! The trip was uneventful (that's always a good sign!), the weather has been beautiful so far, and M-Fuge is awesome! We have a total of 6 girls with us: Abbie, Ashleigh, Sarah, Sharia, Blakely, and Holly. Buster and Sherry are in the same ministry track -- social ministry Sharia & Holly are in the same ministry track -- social ministry (another one) Abbie & Blakely are in the same ministry track -- children's ministry Sarah & Ashleigh are in the same ministry track -- children's ministry (another one) I was originally scheduled to be in Sharia & Holly's group , but this morning was informed that I have been changed to Games & Recreation. Buster & Sherry went to a nursing home today, Sharia & Holly worked at the largest food bank in Charleston sorting and bagging sweet potatoes (for 5 hours!) and tomorrow are going to an Alzheimer's Center and a Day Care, Abbie & Blakely are doing Vacation Bible School (I think in the same place all week), Sarah & Ashleigh went to a day camp where three kids accepted Christ today. I went to a YMCA day camp today. There are two interesting stories so far: The first one is that one of the people groups in the missions emphasis this year is on the missionary in Kingston, Ontario. M-Fuge is partnering there for the next 5 years. It is also the site that the girls had picked out that they want to go to in 2010. Our missions offering this week will be going there, too. The second story comes from M-Fuge West Palm Beach where I went 5 years ago. Some of our group 5 years ago had the privilege of visiting a Jewish Nursing Home where they were not allowed to bring up the subject of Jesus. Last night they received a call and a lady at the center had prayed to receive Christ that day (she had brought up the subject). What makes the story so amazing is that she is 102 years old! Other than the fact that two of the girls are constantly at each other's throats, everything is going well. We solved the problem, though. We told them before they left that if there was any arguing, they would be separated from the rest of the group and have to room together by themselves for the night. They are currently in the room next door (none too happy), but I do not anticipate any more problems. One said that she was going to call her mom to come and get her, but I think it's just a show (drama queen!). Maybe I should have brought the boys instead!!!!! One last thing...Ashleigh has come out of her shell -- she is talking 90 miles a minute and today she actually yelled out loud (it was during a time when people were supposed to yell, but she had never done it before). You would just have to know her to understand my joy. We anticipate wonderful things to happen as a result of this trip. Going to bed. It's 12:00 and 6am comes awfully early. PS: If you don't know what M-Fuge is, just go to www.lifeway.com/fuge In Christ, Mary

It just keeps getting weirder and weirder

2008-06-26T20:34:00.001-05:00

The O'Learys definitely get the weirdest stuff. I went back to the doctor to get my stitch out from biopsy. I saw the doctor I saw the first time I went for this stuff on my legs (the second time I saw a different doctor in the same practice). He says that my bloodwork shows that I tested positive for BOTH Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme Disease. On top of that, he says that I have some kind of lymphatic dermatitis on my legs (whatever the crap that it...sounds yucky, though.) Anyway, I have to go have some more bloodwork and then they're setting me up with an infectious disease specialist. On to better things.... I'm going to Stone Mountain for the 4th of July. It'll just be an overnight trip but it will be so great to just get away. I'll miss my Ohio family, though. We always go to Ohio for the 4th. :-( Then on Monday, July 7th, it's on to Charleston, SC and then to Savannah. The only bad thing is I have to do 2 weeks worth of work and 2 weeks worth of homework before I go. So, I guess I'll get off here and get busy. Love y'all! Aunt Mary

Update on Friday the 13th

2008-06-13T23:08:00.000-05:00

Wow... twice in one month -- that's a record for me to blog! So, here's what's going on: Health: I have tested positive for Lyme Disease, of all the stupid things. I don't even go outside unless I have to! The good news is that I do not have Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, which is what the initially thought I had. School: It's definitely a challenge. The PhD professors are always the toughest. I currently have a 3.83 averge, but we can expect that to go down after this block of classes. Work: I have the best job and the most appreciative boss anyone could ever ask for! Family: Everyone is fine. Love my 2 grandkids...can't wait to get #3 in December. Bryant said that Brandi has to name it after Thomas the Tank Engine if it's a boy. Actually, that will be it's middle name but I can't remember the name of the other engine that Bryant said will be it's first name. Brandalyn is growing and growing. She loves her Grammy -- I had to sit in the back of the church van with her every day after VBS so she could snuggle with me before I had to go back to work. Kyle is fine and looking forward to his trip to Washington State. Chad is fine, too. Brandi is eagerly awaiting her next month's doctor appointment to find out if it is a boy or a girl. I say it's a boy. (Hey, I was right about Kyle!!!!) Church: Just finished up another great year of Vacation Bible School. I had 8 Youth at the beginning of the week and 12 today. Usually you can't get Youth to go, but the last two year's our numbers went up every day. We're serving at the Soup Bowl next Friday and unloading the World Changers next month. Service, service, service -- all with a smile! Mission Trip: Just 3 weeks away!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sad stuff: I lost a friend today. No, she didn't die -- just did the old backstabbing routine. It's said to lose a friend you considered to be your sister. :-( Going to bed and snuggling up to your husband -- priceless. Having Jesus love you: More than priceless!

Update

2008-06-06T22:25:00.000-05:00

Okay, Bob & Miranda, I'm WAY behind in posting to my blog, too, so here goes: Happy Birthday to my niece, Nicole. She is an amazing person and a great mom. I just hope she realizes how much we all love her. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Wanna do the Ghostbusters Dance? One month from tomorrow we'll be leaving for M-Fuge Charleston!!!! I am SO excited about taking 4 girls, Miss Sherry, & Buster on their first mission trips (well, 3 of the 4 girls -- Holly has even been to Honduras). Anyway, I cannot wait for them to have an awesome time serving Jesus in Charleston. Inviting Jesus into your heart is #1. Serving Jesus through missions is definitely #2. Smiling while serving is .... (drum roll, please!) PRICELESS! In addition to M-Fuge, we will be serving at the local soup kitchen and greeting/unloading the World Changers when they come to town. Hopefully, we'll get to throw in a trip to Panama City Beach over Labor Day. On our way back from Charleston, we're taking a side trip to Savannah to see my niece Jenny, her husband Justin, my great-niece Anna, and Justin & Jenny's soon-to-be-born baby. Way cool! Next week is Vacation Bible School. VBS is so awesome and I love teach ing it! It kicks off with a block party tomorrow evening, then we have VBS Monday-Friday from 8am until noon, Commencement on Friday at noon, followed by a beach party (no, we didn't have a beach delivered). Last year 7 young people made decisions for Christ at VBS. I'm sad, though, that I don't get to go to Ohio this year. Just don't have the money for it. :-( I have always enjoyed going up there to see how much my great-nieces and great-nephews have grown since the year before. I miss you guys! Have I said lately how much I LOVE being a grandma?????? Bryant is just so cute and funny. Brandalyn has been playing softball this summer and has an all-star tournament this weekend. Brandi is fine .... showing more every day. Kyle is flying to Washington state around the 4th of July to meet a girl he's been talking to online. I just pray that if it's God's will that it will work out. And if it's not God's will that it will end quickly. Okay, I'm going to bed. Can you believe it --- at 10:30 on a Friday night. Gosh, I'm getting OLD! Mary Galatians 6:9 -- "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Celebrating Mother's Day & Other Things

2008-05-11T18:41:00.000-05:00

I'm celebrating Mother's Day this year. Not just my Mother's Day from my kids, although it was great. Got a digital photo frame, which will look AWESOME in my new office at work! I'm celebrating MY mother this year, something I haven't done since she died 25 years ago. Every year on Mother's Day, I have grieved. Until this year. For several reasons. The first reason is because our Relay for Life event was Friday night. Our team raised more than our goal of $4,000 (an increase of $1,000 from last year). All the teams raised a total of... are you ready for this??? ... over $626,000!!!!!!!!!!!!! Maybe this will be the year that a cure for cancer will be found. Maybe this will be the last year that someone loses their mother to cancer, as I did. I celebrate the fact that I am doing something to help other daughters keep their moms. The second reason to celebrate is because at church this year we got to celebrate our mothers. Not the mothers who are living, although they are important. But our mothers who are in Heaven with Jesus. After being out of work most of the week with a migraine, suffering through shots of toradol & phenegren (okay, so I didn't spell the meds right) that only dulled the pain but did keep me from throwing up, going to Relay when I really should have went back to the doctor (but I was afraid they'd put me in the hospital, which they probably would have done), staying at Relay from 3pm on Friday until 9am on Saturday (okay, I laid in my lawn chair most of the time, but I was THERE!), going home and sleeping for just 5 hours, getting back up Saturday afternoon to go to try to catch up on all the work I was behind on (mainly what I'm going to talk about next) and working until 1:00 a.m. Okay, back to my second reason. I didn't want to go into the hospital because I was working on a PowerPoint presentation for church. Now, we caught a LOT of flack about doing the presentation because people thought it would be too sad and ruin Mother's Day. But, you know what???? It made it more special. I got to introduce MY mother to the church. Everyone talked about how pretty she was (which she was, although I thought she was OLD -- she was 48 when she died... just 6 months younger than I am now). I had the prettiest mom there, but that isn't the point. People who normally dread Mother's Day smiled. Everyone watched the PowerPoint with smiles on their faces. It was so cool! All the mothers at church got a gift from the kids in Children's Church, but MY mom got to be special!!! Cool! The third reason I'm celebrating Mother's Day is because I will see my mom in Heaven some day. Why was I grieving so much when I will see her again someday??? And when I see her, she won't be pale from cancer ... or swelled from cancer ... or be bald from cancer ... but will have a glorified body. Way cool! To all you moms ... Pat, Carol, Annie, Stacy, Miranda, Nicole, Brandy, & Shera ... and mom's-to-be ... Jenny & Brandi ... and to everyone whose mother is here on Earth and to those whose mothers are in Heaven ...HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! MARY

I'M GONNA BE A GRANDMA AGAIN!!!!

2008-04-25T15:37:00.000-05:00

Hey, everyone! Brandi is expecting!!! Her due date is December 19. Woo-hoo! I love being a grandma and hope to have 100 grandkids!

Catching up again

2008-03-19T20:18:00.000-05:00

Okay, everyone -- here's the latest! The dumb lady in Jacksonville who chained herself to a tree to keep the power company from cutting it down has won her court case and gets to keep her stupid trees. It's pretty said when you can't kill a tree, but you can kill a kid by abortion! School's going great! Waiting on my final grades from my last 2 classes -- hopefully will finish with an A in each class. Bob, I haven't forgotten the $5 I owe you, but have lost your address (again!). Can you or Miranda email it to me? Buster's 18-year-old great-nephew Chris has been diagnosed with an aggressive and rare cancer called round cell sarcoma. The doctor is giving him 8 months - 2 years WITH treatment. Which brings me to my next posting... It's RELAY FOR LIFE time again. I am really, really wanting to help raise the money to find a cure for cancer. And you can help! All you have to do is visit this link to my Relay website and make a donation. You can do it in memory or honor of someone. http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RelayForLifeMid-SouthDivision?pg=personal&fr_id=8308&fr_id=8308&px=4462719 Yesterday one of the church members and I were making a list of cancer survivors in our church. Even though we only average about 160 in worship, there are over 20 cancer survivors in our church. And about double that number who are widowed because of cancer. I shocked my class of 5th-8th graders in church Sunday by telling them that I've fallen in love with someone besides my husband Buster. And I have. I've fallen in love with Jesus. And that's how it should be. We should love Him so much that he's first on our list. Serving Him is so exciting and fun. If your walk with him isn't exciting and fun, you need to look for something to do at church for Him! Speaking of church. Our Associate Pastor leaves Friday for his new job in Mississippi. I was about to panic because he helps us pick up kids for church. But God is faithful!!!!! Last Sunday one of the members went up to Bro. Buddy and said that he had a 12 passenger van with 40,000 on it that he'd like to DONATE to the church. So, as of this Sunday, we have a van!!!!!! Family is okay. Buster has lost a LOT of relatives in the last month. First he lost an aunt to CANCER, and then his cousin's 13-year-old granddaughter just died (they still don't know why), and then he lost his other aunt to CANCER, and 2 weeks later the son of his aunt that just died passed away from CANCER. It has been such a struggle for him. On top of that, our son Chad had knee surgery today and our daughter-in-law Brandy had surgery yesterday. Our daughter Brandi is good and so is our son Kyle. Grandkids Brandalyn and Bryant are growing up fast. Our dog died last week, our birds are good, and all the cats are good. On my next posting (who knows how long that will be), I will tell all about my exciting morning I had today. Oh yeah, did you know that the makers of the movie Facing the Giants and Flywheel are making a new movie to be released this fall called Fireproof? By the way Bob, Miranda, Annie, and whoever else got to go... I'm SO jealous that you got to go see Casting Crowns. :-( (My favorite group) Anyway, love to you all, and don't forget to visit my Relay site. And don't forget to praise God for at least 1 thing today! Mary In the meantime

Update on Chris

2008-01-22T17:54:00.000-06:00

Hi, Everyone! Just got word that Chris definitely has cancer, but the actual type and stage is not yet known. They did tell his mom that most likely he will not have surgery, but chemo. Please remember this family in your prayers. I had wanted a sign whether or not we needed to do Relay for Life this year or not, so I guess this is it. I will post how to get to my Relay site as soon as I get it up and running. Who do YOU want me to Relay for?????? My list seems to go on and on and on. Praising God even during the sad times, Mary

Prayer requests and other things

2008-01-21T21:05:00.000-06:00

Please remember in your prayers:

1) Buster's 18-year-old great-nephew Chris who finds out the results of his biopsies tomorrow.

2) Emma's family. Emma was a hospice patient we provided Christmas for her and her son this year.

3) The Burgess family: Rick and Sherri. Rick is a radio personality of The Rick and Bubba Show and a great Christian guy. Rick was in Gatlinburg and received a call Saturday that his wife Sherri (still in Birmingham) had gone upstairs to take a shower and left the 5 kids downstairs to watch a movie. When she came downstairs she couldn't find 2-year-old Bronner. She found him outside in the pool. Please pray also for Rick's mom and dad: Bill & Geynell. We go to church with them. As a grandparent, my heart grieves for them.

On a happier note: I passed that horrible class!!!!! I got a B-. I was SO scared that I was going to fail!!!! I got a 95 in my hard class. Go figure!!!!

Mary

(Galations 6:9)

More Pictures

2008-01-18T21:43:00.000-06:00

Here's some more pictures -- one of Kyle & Becca and one of me and Dakota (Patty's grandson) and one of Chloe (Patty's granddaughter)

Misc Stuff

2008-01-18T21:27:00.000-06:00

Okay, I'm going to whine. I'm sick. I just finished my last week of classes for this session. Got one of my grades back. I got a 95 in my hard class (critical thinking) and probably failed my essay writing class. Our last question to post to was "What have you learned?" -- my answer was "Apparently I'm an idiot because I have not learned how to write a thesis statement correctly after 2 months."

We had a GREAT time at our "Just for Girls" event. It was for girls ages 5-14. We had 19 girls show up and they had a GREAT time. Check out the MySpace -- it's www.MySpace.com/fbcmcclellanyouth.

Here are a couple of pictures of my granddaughter Brandalyn (above):

This has been an amazing Christmas

2007-12-25T18:33:00.000-06:00

Things I have enjoyed about this Christmas: 1) Christmas Eve Service at church. It was Christmas Carols, Communion, and Candlelight. Such a special way to celebrate the birth of our Savior. This is my favorite service of the whole year and I plan my entire day around it. I will be late to visit people or to go out to eat, but I promised myself that I will make this service my top priority every year. 2) Taking Christmas to a Hospice family. Between what a Sunday School class from ANOTHER church donated (wasn't that nice!!!), money from my sister Pat, our money, and gifts from the Hospice volunteer coordinator, we were able to give food, clothing gifts to a 67-year-old cancer patient and her care-giver son who is high-functioning mentally challenged. What a blessing it was to us! For those of you who don't know it, when both my mom and and then my dad were suffering from terminal cancer, I was caregiver for each of them. When taking care of Dad, I was also the single parent of a 3-year-old little boy. One day dad's nurse asked if they could bring Kyle a Christmas present or two. I told her to ask Dad (even though I was 28 years old, it was still his house) and he said yes. Imagine my surprise when Santa knocked on our door. He had a big basket of food, pajamas & money for bills for Dad, a sweater & gloves for me (it was yellow), and a whole BAG full of toys for Kyle, including a Teddy Ruxpin. I will never forget the love of those nurses who gave of their own money. It was such a joy this year to give back. Pray for Emma and her son Randy, okay? 3) Taking Christmas to two kids from our church who had only gotten 2 small gifts for Christmas. What a joy to have picked out for them EXACTLY what they wanted, even though we didn't have lists to go by. It was such a joy watching them open their gifts. That's a memory that will stay with me for a long, long time. 4) Being with all my kids this morning. My granddaughter Brandalyn was happy with her gifts and my 3 year old grandson kept saying "Tank you, tank you." It was my daughter Brandi's first Christmas with her new husband Micah. They took us to the Alabama/Auburn football game a couple of weeks ago as our Christmas present. It was great! Our son Kyle took us to the PapaJohns.com Bowl game last week when the University of Cincinnati Bearcats whupped the University of Southern Mississippi. Meeting Kyle's new girlfriend. I pray that if this is the young lady that God has for him that it will work out, and if she isn't "the One" that they will break up before she can break his heart. Knowing that all 3 of my kids respect me and know that I'll always be there for them. 5) Knowing that all my brothers and sisters and their families had a Merry Christmas. 6) Last, but certainly not least -- realizing more and more every day how much God truly loves me. He sent his Son to die for me -- and for you -- and everyone else. Merry Christmas to all of you. May God pour out His man blessings upon you! Merry Christmas! Mary Turner

It's Thanksgiving (Almost) -- What Are You Thankful For?

2007-11-16T22:18:00.000-06:00

I'm thankful that God sent His one and only Son to die on the cross in my place that I may go to Heaven someday. I'm thankful to have a husband that I love, who enjoys doing the things I do, and thinks I'm perfect the way I am. I'm thankful to have a son who said I was his hero on his MySpace page. I'm thankful to have ears to hear when one of my grandkids say "Grammy". I'm thankful to have eyes to see the smile on their faces when they see me. I'm thankful to have a voice, even though I sing like a banshee. I'm thankful to work at a church where they treat me like the neatest thing since McDonald's french fries. I'm thankful for my friends I've made at church, because I haven't let my guard down to have friends for a long, long time. I'm thankful to have a roof over my head, although I worry a little if I'll be able to pay all my bills with everything going up. I'm thankful for my co-workers -- 2 preachers that are not just co-workers but also friends. I'm thankful for the sound of the pitter-patter of little feet running through my living room -- even though they're kittens! I'm thankful for my family. I'm thankful that God loves me, even though I don't deserve it.

Just Some Miscellaneous Stuff

2007-11-11T22:46:00.000-06:00

Church was awesome today. Although Bro. Buddy didn't preach, our Associate Pastor, Bro. Dean, did and he did so good. I am truly blessed to have a job where everyone treats me as if I am the neatest thing since Butterfinger Sonic Blasts from Sonic. Plus, they're all just so much fun to be around!!!! Stacy, if you read this, send your address to mturner@annistonfbc.com Kittens...I think they're even cooler than dogs. Except they won't come running when you call to them. Instead they give you "The Look". I am SO not going to come and see you. My kitten (who is even bigger than his mama) Little Bear barely tolerates me petting him. But if Kyle comes into the room, Bear starts rolling around on his back and wanting Kyle to pet him. And then he even PURRS for Kyle! It's so night right -- he's MY cat! The neatest thing about cats is when they run through the house. When I get ready to go to bed at night, I have to play chase with Bear for about 20 minutes until he gets tired and FINALLY runs into the bedroom. (Wouldn't you like to have a video of that!) Anyway, aren't you glad I'm in a better mood and not ranting today? Have a good week. PS: I'm thankful for family. Family that even takes the time to read all my silly postings! Love you all! Mary

Got My Grades Today

2007-11-01T20:59:00.000-05:00

Okay, I'm feeling very proud of myself. Got my final grades for my first two classes. I got a 98 in one and a 100 in the other. It was a really easy semester except for one thing: My last week of classes (when I had 2 major projects due), I came down with a very very nasty kidney infection that didn't respond to antibiotics. Now, I had kept the entire week clear to work on my projects but was so sick that I didn't even touch my computer at home until Saturday because I was so sick. And my projects were due at midnight on Sunday. That doesn't sound too bad does it? But remember, Sunday is church day. AND we had Fall Festival that evening. I taught Sunday School at 9am and 11am and went to worship at 10am. We went and got some lunch, then went back to the church at 4pm. I got home from the Fall Festival at 7pm. So, when did I get my class work done? Most of it on Saturday. Twelve hours worth, as a matter of fact. I got it all done except for my bibliography page in one of my classes. But Sunday night, it only took me an hour and a half and I was done. I have a saying... "God watches out for small children and idiots, and I'm not a child!" Anyway, hope you're having a good week. By the way, have you ever tried to type with a kitten on your chest? Bob & Miranda: you know you are allowed to post comments. Haven't heard from you in a while. Love the room! And the pictures of that sweet baby girl! Mary

Youth-Led Service

2007-10-17T22:17:00.000-05:00

WOW! What more can I say?????? We had 13 of our youth show up for the service and they did an amazing job!!!! Nobody acted up, the music was awesome, and God was definitely in charge! At the end I did a PowerPoint to Ray Boltz's song "Thank You". If you've never heard it, you should. It is THE most powerful song I've ever heard. Near the end when it says, "I know that in Heaven you're not supposed to cry..." the pictures on the screen were one by one of the kids and youth who have been baptized since January. Just seeing the look on their faces as they stood in the baptismal waters was so cool! And seeing the look on Bro. Buddy's face was just too awesome for words. We are so blessed to have him as a pastor! Anyway, at the very end I put MY verse up there "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Galations 6:9) And then Bro. Buddy asked all the Youth and Youth workers to kneel down front for a special time of prayer. All you could hear over the sanctuary was sniffles. I am so proud of my kids!!!!!! They did such a good job that the lady in charge of the Thanksgiving/Christmas banquet asked me if they kids would do the entertainment for the banquet. WOW! We had 10 Youth show up for FAITH training tonight! I know that it's not about numbers but just last year we weren't having any of them show up for class and now we have about 18 attend. God is so good! Mary :-)

Can't Think of a Title

2007-10-13T22:13:00.000-05:00

Okay, I'm not feeling creative. You wouldn't feel creative if you had spent the night at a lock-in with 15 5th-8th graders. I'm barely functioning! Tomorrow night we have a Youth-Led Service. I'm really nervous. I hope the kids do good. This will be the first one we've tried. The message is really good, a combination of different things I've heard and read over the years. I'll try to remember to post it one day. It's why we have chosen to name our Youth Group "The Eagles" (no, not like the group, if you're a 70s and 80s fan!). Anyway, we got home this morning and I stayed up (after an hour and a half of sleep the night before) until 2:30 p.m. Then we went to bed. I got up at 8:30 p.m. and Buster is still sleeping. Well, we got Brandi married off. They are due to come home from Jamaica tonight. Kyle is over being sick. Chad and the grandkids are good. Bryant is having stomach problems. Chad and the grandkids are good. Bryant is having stomach problems.

Here's a picture of me and Kyle from the wedding.

School is good. Just 2 weeks to go in this section of classes. I have a 100 average in one class and a 98 in the other. That's about it.

Catching Up On My Life

2007-10-06T22:56:00.001-05:00

Well, here I am, catching up on my life. It seems as if my life was been so hectic for so long that having a few moments free is something I'm not sure to do with. Okay, let's play catch-up (no, not ketchup). WORK -- Busy, busy, busy. We had a fund-raiser for 3 of our girls to go to China on a mission trip next year. The fund-raiser was called Tablescapes and 25 of us ladies decorated a table to our own whims. I did mine as "Babies are Heaven You can Hold". It was really cute. At least that's what everyone said. Monday, when I'm off and have NOTHING to do, I'll try to upload a picture from it. Anyhow, we had 174 ladies attend, which is great for a church that has 150 total men, women, & kids on Sunday worship. SCHOOL -- Study, study, study. I'm LOVING it! Wish I had gone back years ago. As of today (with only 3 weeks remaining of this group of classes), I still have 100 averages in both classes. My motivation is my kids at church. I HAVE to do well, because they all ask me what my grades are. CHURCH -- A couple of weeks ago, on a Wednesday night, one of my "problem children" announced right before we prayed to dismiss class that he wanted to get saved. Of course, I gave him "that look", because sometimes they ask to pray and then clown around all the way through the prayer. So I said, "Is this for real?" And he said, "YES". I was so excited that I had to run and get the preacher. Let's understand one thing ... I am comfortable leading others to Christ. I'm not scared of doing it (at least with kids and youth -- adults are another story!). But I had been praying for so long that I didn't think it would ever happen. So we baptized him last week and the transformation in him has been amazing! Keep praying for him. Last year at this time we had 13 youth and only 1 was already saved. Now we only have about 3 who aren't saved. And they have gotten saved throughout the year ... not the week after their friend. God is so amazing. Just like my favorite Bible verse "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Galations 6:9) HOME -- My daughter Brandi got married today to a wonderful guy. Kyle is sick. Chad is still working too hard. My granddaughter, Brandalyn, is growing up too fast (she's almost 8). My grandson, Bryant, is a hoot. He was ringbearer at the wedding today and during the ceremony he wandered around and PICKED UP the rose petals off the ground and put them BACK into Brandalyn's flower girl basket. It was SO cute! I got to see my husband, Buster, in a tux. He looked amazing. Do you know that I have known him for 18 years this month and we've been married for 15 1/2 years and I have NEVER seen him in a tie before! I got to wear my first formal. Did I tell you that I've always been a klutz? First I spilled water all down the front of it. It dried and left a slight stain. Then I got orange punch spilled on it (another stain). Then I went to stand up and it got stuck in the chair next to mine and snagged. Last year I went to a wedding and spilled an ENTIRE drink in my lap. What is it with me and weddings anyway?????? Anyway, I praise God for all His many blessings. Mary :-]

Update on the Roller Coast

2007-09-03T11:56:00.000-05:00

I love school! So far I've gotten three 100's. My goal is to graduate with straight A's.

Life is a Roller Coaster -- Part 2

2007-08-29T20:48:00.000-05:00

You know, when I had the slight stroke in March, the neurologist told me to slow down. So I did. I took power naps during lunch, cut back on activities, and stayed home a lot. Well, it lasted a few months, anyway. Since then I am now enrolled in college online full-time, so if you're wondering where I am, I'm probably slaving away on my computer. Plus, at work it's budget time, which is always crazy. Not only that, but we're kicking off a campaign to raise money (part of the money will go towards a 25-passenger bus, which we REALLY need). On top of that, we have a big ladies event coming up and I'm having to do extra mailouts for the ladies event and the fund-raising campaign. Plus, we're re-doing the whole floor in our bathroom. I mean we took out EVERYTHING but the garden tub!!!! But I'm still alive and kicking, so just pray that I can keep it all going until I get ahead a little on my school work. Mary :]

Life is a roller coaster!

2007-07-29T20:48:00.000-05:00

Okay, the last time I wrote I was sad. Now I'm happy again. Wow! This is confusing!!!!!!!!!! The reason that I am so happy is because we got 9 new members at church today. We got 4 by letter and baptized 5 youth/kids tonight. Hooray! Seeing the excitement on the kids' faces was amazing. They couldn't wait to get baptized. You can see the pictures at our MySpace page. It's FBCMcClellanYouth. Bro Buddy preached a GREAT sermon on forgiveness. I guess my thought for the day is... If you need to forgive someone, or if you need to go to someone to ask for forgiveness ... don't wait another day! Make it right!!!!!!!! Have a great day! Mary

The Job Syndrome

2007-07-25T08:29:00.000-05:00

Okay, yesterday I was excited ... today I'm sad. Are you happy, Satan???? But even though I'm sad, I still trust in the Lord. I got the call yesterday afternoon that one of our youth's home had burned down. It was suspicious in origin. See, the mother had kicked out her boyfriend of 5 years the week before because his lifestyle was detrimental to the youth and his sister (age 10). Since then, she had been staying as far away from the mobile home (which she owned) because she was afraid that he would come over there causing trouble and she didn't want that for the kids. Well, she got a call a few days later that HE was there and that the neighbors could hear him breaking stuff. Saturday, their residence was burned down. They can't prove that HE did it, but who else could it have been????????????? What makes it worse, is the fire was deliberately started in the section of the trailer where the kids slept. A bunch of clothes was set on fire. We've been taking the kids to church for about a year and a half. They got saved at VBS in June and baptized the next week. Even though they have had a tough life, whenever we do any type of missions, the boy is right there to volunteer to help. He served at the Soup Bowl with us in May or June and then last Friday night he helped us serve meals and clean up after the World Changers. God is truly working in his life!!!!!!!!!!! He has such a wonderful heart and truly loves his mom and tries to watch out for her. Guess what, though... his World Changers Volunteer shirt didn't get burned up...he had left it at his grandmother's. He is so proud of it!!!!! What really broke their hearts, though, was last Christmas each of the kids got a Game Boy. They were so happy to get them. The Game Boys did get burned up. How sad!!!! It doesn't sound like much, but when you're a kid with practically nothing, it's EVERYTHING!!! Please pray for this family!!! The mom told Buster yesterday that she believes in the power of prayer. (I think we're making progress with her, too!) Mary

Something to Celebrate

2007-07-24T13:19:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited!!! We're baptizing 5 youth/children this Sunday night! God is really working in our midst. Just when I thought there was no hope... Last Friday we took 5 youth to help serve meals and do clean-up at a local church where the World Changers were staying. They did an amazing job! We were so proud of them! They were so good that after we finished working, we took them to Sonic for ice cream and then we went back to that church and went to Worship with the World Changers. Just watching them listen to the camp pastor gave me goosebumps. They sat forward and barely even moved during the message. I can't wait until next year. We're going to take them to Charleston SC to M-Fuge (which is church camp where part of the day they get to do missions at a ministry site). Pray for our youth-led service in October! Mary

Tell Someone You Love Them

2007-07-19T09:19:00.000-05:00

I guess one of my biggest problems growing up was feeling so unloved. I can honestly say that I never KNEW my parents loved me -- mainly because they never told me. I can't remember anyone telling me that when I was growing up. How sad! My parents both died of cancer. Both of them knew they were dying. The thing I can't figure out is this: If you knew you were going to die, wouldn't you tell the people closest to you how much you love them and how important they are to you? So my lesson for today is this: Make sure your kids KNOW that you love them!

Okay, we'll try it again~!

2007-07-17T14:17:00.000-05:00

My first posting didn't work...I'll try it again. Guess I'm stupider than everyone thought! Mary

I hope this turns out

2007-07-17T13:55:00.000-05:00

Okay, my niece Miranda and her husband Bob have blogs, so why can't I??? I'm trying to set up a new one. I guess it'll end up showing how smart (or stupid) I am. Wish me luck!!!!!