My Testimony

I grew up in a Christian home with Christian roots. I was happy.
My parents divorced when I was eleven-I wasn't as happy anymore but learned to mask it.

I spent my summers at Camp Deer Run surrounded by friends and cousins-lots of cousins. I was happiest when I was at Deer Run, I learned about Jesus. I grew up in the youth group surrounded by positive Christian role models. Making the decision to be baptized was not a hard one for me, it's what you did when you were young. In my circle of friends, there was something not right with you if you didn't get baptized before you entered high school. I made the decision because it was all I knew. When I was in high school, I didn't believe in drinking, smoking or having pre-marital sex. You just didn't do that in my circle of friends. In fact, my friends were members of the church youth group. We were the leaders in our church. We were the fun, loving, good kids who always attended the retreats and signed up for every mission trip. Our parents never worried about us because they knew we were not the typical kid. I took my faith for granted.

I graduated high school and the next day headed out to Deer Run to work on staff. I looked forward to this time because I was going to be able to spend my summers laughing and playing with my friends and cousins. I later went off to college at ACU. Still wearing my mask of happiness. Truth was, I was sad, incredibly sad.

At this point in my life, I started trying to find myself. People would ask me, "Why do you believe in God?" My answer was because I just do. Although I had a strong faith and believed in God I could not answer the questions about why do you believe this and why do you believe that. I began working at Chili's. If you have ever worked in the restaurant business you know it is not cool to be a Christian, very worldly. I wanted to fit in. I had always fit in wherever I was at the time. I didn't like being the outsider. I never talked about my faith. I prayed-but it was always for God to bless me with a certain amount of tips so I could pay my electric bill or car payment. I was angry those days He didn't provide, happy when He did. I soon found myself compromising all that I grew up knowing not to do. Smoking-did that. Drinking-did that. Sex before marriage-did that. It was all so that I would not look like an outsider. Looking back, I am sad by these choices but God was there with me through it all. I could of become an alcoholic-I didn't. I could have become addicted to cigarettes-I gave that up cold turkey. I could of become pregnant and had to have been latched with God only knows who for the rest of my life-I didn't.

But God brought people in my life to be a friend to me. To stand beside me. I was still wearing my mask. I wanted everyone from my home church to believe that I was still Susan from Sunday school, when the truth was-I was anything but. I wanted my family to believe I was making it on my own financially-when I was drowning in debt. I wanted people to believe I was happy-when all I wanted to do was cry most days. I wanted people to believe I had it all together the truth was my world was falling apart.

My life came to a grinding halt in April 2001. It was a devastating time not only for me but for my family. It was through this process that I started allowing God to speak to me. I had met Jeff, my now husband who encouraged me to move beyond my past. He did not allow me to wallow in my pain-instead he and a couple from my church encouraged me to go see a counselor. This couple paid for each and every visit, they felt this strongly about helping me and moving forward. I babysat for them once a week, each time they prayed with me. I was broken and I finally realized that in order for me to move beyond my past I would need to acknowledge my failures. I would need to acknowledge that without God-I was nothing but trash. Jeff and I began the process of working towards marriage. He and I would sit with my counselor talking about our expectations and what we wanted from each other and God. We became transformed from the inside out. The mask was removed.

We became members of a church separate from my home church. It was the first time that someone sat me down and talked me through what it means to be a Christian. Some may find this odd since I grew up in the church. But never before, atleast to my knowledge, did some one clearly present the gospel to me. What it meant to be saved, why we are baptized and why it is important for us to seek and save the lost.

I learned over the years not to be ashamed of my past sins. God sent His son to die on the cross to save me. In return I am to live my life according to His Word, making the most of every opportunity. Loving others the same way that those in my life loved me-judgment free full of grace. The greatest thing about the people who God used, they spoke the truth to me in love-they strongly encouraged me to grow beyond the "junk" and live and be the person God has called me to be.

Thank you for letting me share-for more great testimonies-click here to Created For His Glory.

God Bless and May each of you remember that Jesus died for us and wants you to lay your past and present burdens at His feet. He will do the rest-just be still and know that He is God!

Continue To Pray for Canon Norman

Per Canon's Blog much prayers are still needed.

He is back on his ventilator and his white blood cell count is very high. The doctors have said there is fluid on his heart so they are watching at this point.

If anything changes I will update the post.

Pray for Carla his mom.

Teresa, the friend that is keeping us posted via Canon's blog has written the following from

Psalms 61

Hear my cry, O God;Attend to my prayer.

From the end of the earth I will cry to You.

When my heart is Overwhelmed (which I know Carla's is right now)

Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

Thank you Lord for providing us with blogs so we are able to get prayers out to many around the world. May you spread your word to the ends of the earth, farther than any eye can see.

Thank you Lord for all that you have done and all that you are going to do!
Susan

You Know Marriage Suits You When...

• Your Husband suggests staying in on a Friday night and you say, "Yes, lets!" without batting an eye!
• You go to the grocery store in the afternoon so you don't have to get out later for dinner-truly a quiet evening at home. I bought my own flowers and a bottle of wine. I am fine with this arrangement. I have a nice bouquet of fall flowers to look at all weekend.
• When your husband wakes up after working the night shift-hangs out in his pjs most of the night and you never once complain. In fact, you put your old, tattered pajamas with stains and holes and sit down to have this nice meal like you are dressed to the nines. Whatever happened to getting dressed to impress?
• When your husband heads off to the video store to pick out a movie and you do not offer any input, it will be nice just to be together.
• When after both of you had a long, stressful week-you can just sit and say nothing at all because the silence is much nicer than boring conversation-where you do most of the talking.
  
  
  

Prayers Needed

It's funny, you see, I prayed for God to show me His ministry for my life and well a ministry has fallen in my lap this week. It seems I am to continue a passion of mine-prayer. I have been connected either by word of mouth, the prayer chain at church and or people in my daily life to others who are in need of prayer. Most of these prayers have kept my spirit working overtime this week. Seriously, I went to bed last night praying for a dear person in my life and the first thought in my head when I woke-was for that person. I think I may of even had a dream about some of the other people on my list but I slept so soundly that I can not remember. Praise God that He hears my prayers even when I am sleeping!

So I humbly bow before His throne and lift up a few prayer requests. I will post them on my blog-feel free to comment or not, I am not in this business for the comments. I am just a simple girl striving to do the Lord's will. For now, his will is for me to pray unselfishly for others.

1. The Byron Nelson Funeral- Many of you may recognize this name-since he has an outstanding history in the game of golf. But to me he is so much more than the "Legendary Golf Pro" He was a friend-a man who always had a smile and a hug to offer me during the hug and howdy time at my home church. Who invited my mom and her boyfriend over for lunch because he felt God calling him to be a positive role model to Sam. Many people will be attend his funeral tomorrow at 1:30, I will not. I have opted to keep my niece and nephew so my sister-in-law could join my brother. I pray for the people whose lives may be greatly impacted tomorrow from the life of Byron Nelson. Not the golf pro but the man who lived a life,especially in his later years-seeking and saving the lost. Now that is how I want to be remembered.

2. My Aunt Birdy- She is lying in a hospital tonight, in a coma and they do not think she will live through the night. She was my grandmother's niece or sister-can't remember which. But she stood by us many years ago as we sat vigil in my grandmother's hospital room, waiting until Nana took her last breath. I pray peace for her family as they are replaying our story 6 years ago. I praise God that she too is a believer and will soon be reunited with my grandmother and grandfather. You know, I must admit I am a little jealous.

3. Canon Norman- I just did my nightly check in to his blog. It looks like today has not been good. He has a collapsed lung-filled with fluid. Please pray for Canon, Carla his mom and Sue his grandmother. Please visit the blog that Carla's friend is updating for her and leave a comment. Chandra always told me during her Canon's experience how much everyone's comments meant to her.

I could go on and on but I will wait to post for another day. These I believe are the most urgent-in my life at least-so please pray. If you ever need someone to pray for you, please feel free to leave a comment or email me. My email is listed in my profile.

Let me leave you with this verse.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all you ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

Proverbs 3:5-6

Thursday Thirteen: September Wrap Up

Can you believe that September is two days from being gone? Time flies when you're having fun! So in honor of this month coming to a close-I have made a list of 13 things that took place in the Young household.

1. I went to the Dentist.

2. Pink Impact @ Gateway Church
A powerful time with God and the Chick from Down Under. Feel free to read my post about what God showed me during these few days here and here.
3. Pizza Friday-every Friday!
Jeff and I have a standing tradition with his family, affectionately called the Cherry Clan-which is his mom's and 2 aunts maiden name. They have been doing this way before I entered into the picture-even before Jeff entered into the picture-even before the sisters even married their husbands. Like I said it is a long standing tradition. If you live in Trophy Club-you are welcome to come hang out with us at Vinny's. We have our standard table and new faces always welcome.
4. Celebrated two pending births in two days.
Cousin Rachel and Cousin Maurine are expecting their first babies a week apart. They are sisters-in-law-married to brothers and friends of mine before they married into the family. It was fun getting the girls together to celebrate their impending births.
5. Charger Football-
They are 2-0 so far, our house is very proud of them. Keep up the great work guys!
6. 3 quizzes, 1 History Test-
I am in my second year of my going back to college. I feel like a fish out of water with me being almost 10 years older than my fellow classmates but I don't care really. I just want to get this college thing behind me. Funny side note: A girl asked if we needed to know the dates for the History test. It's history, of course you need to know the dates. IDIOT!
7. Haircut
I got my roots done and my hair trimmed. I am trying to grow out my hair so I can donate to "Locks of Love" It will take awhile since my hair is not even to my shoulders yet.
8. The New Season of Bible Study has begun.
I am doing a Women's Study on Titus 2 and Jeff and I are both doing 2 Samuel. Both are very interesting and convicting so far. I will keep you posted.
9. Went to Austin
We spent Labor Day with Jeff's brother Matt, the man who introduced us, at his house in Austin. We saw the bats at the Congress bridge and ate at my favorite dive, Chuy's!
10. Gunnar's Birthday
My brother celebrated his 31st birthday. It was a fun time and yes, Gunnar is his real name.
11. Kid Time
I have already written about it but we are still laughing from that night. Read the full story here.
12. Taught Sunday School
Jeff and I are on a monthly rotation to teach the 4-6 year olds. We always leave with stories that will carry us through the week. Our favorite student is Henry. He is full of mischief and love. This time it was more mischief than love. As we were playing on the playgroud-he climbed up on the little roof of this plastic house in the yard. Jeff pulled him off and then a few minutes later he was right back up there. During the lesson I was trying to get him to pay attention to the lesson, he didn't want to. In fact, he said "No way Teach!" Jeff and I laughed and let him keep it up. We have a lot to learn about parenting
13. Saving my favorite for last...Katy learning to ride her bike! My four year old niece is a star at church. I put together that video archiving her story-my brother bought the video from the website and has shared it with all the Gateway staff. Now people will walk up to her and say, "I saw you ride your bike!" And since she is shy-she ducks her head and hides behind my brother's leg. But don't let her fool you, she is loving the attention! She also had her first crash and now has a long scratch to prove she is a true cycler. She ran up to me Sunday night and says, "Look, I'm official!"

Click here if you want to see the video for the first time or watch it once again.

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. ItÂ’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
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Pray for Canon Norman

I don't know this family-have never spoken to them or seen them in my entire life. But my Heavenly Father does and He has laid this boy named Canon and his mom, Carla on my heart. I was reading Psalms 139 today in my quiet time. I was reminded that God knows me and this family intimatley.

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you becasue I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."

verse 13-14

I have come to realize that you do not have to know people or their circumstances to pray for them. God will intercede for us-when we are unable to wrap our mind around all that this family is going through. I have realized that our prayers do not have to be eloquent or long winded. They can be as simple as saying, "Lord please provide all that Carla needs. Heal Canon." You do not have to sit a certain way to get your prayers heard. You can walk down the street and say your prayers. You can be sitting in a lecture and say a quick prayer or sweating it out on a treadmill and say a prayer.

Prayers-simple or deep can be heard but the important thing is that we remember to pray. Take the time today during your normal routine to lift up a prayer for Canon and Carla.

From Carla's Blog:

If you are able to help Carla in any way (no donation is toosmall), please send a check or money order to:

Canon Norman Stephens Inc.111 Center StreetLittle Rock, AR 72201

Make sure to put this information on your check:"for account of Carla Norman -custodian of Canon Norman,Account # 41459887"

God Bless you all for praying and getting the word out there for us!

Happy Birthday Big Brother!

Today is my Brother's 31st birthday! I thought what better way to honor his big day than to post my favorite picture from my wedding here on my blog.

Recently I was looking back over my prayer journals and his name is interwoven in my pages. Here are a few of my prayers over the years.

I prayed for him when he moved in with my Dad. I knew I was going to miss him but I didn't realize how much. Through this time, we developed a strong friendship that has helped us get through many of the storms we have faced through the years.

I prayed for him when he started dating his wife Missy. He would spend the night at our house after most dates. He and I would sit in my room for hours-he retelling me the date, I asking him the questions that most little sisters do. "Did you kiss her?" His answer was, "NO! Not yet!" I knew from the very start that she was the one for him. I am also thankful for him picking a wife that is not only a loving, nurturing wife and mother but a loving, nurturing sister-in-law and friend to me.

I prayed for him the first time he told me he was going to be a father. "Oh Lord, here we go!" He is now the father of three precious children. Faith, Katelyn and Elijah. I love watching him run and play with each of them. I also love watching him give that "You better cut that out look." to his children. I know that look very well because both us got that look from our Dad. I am still waiting for him to whistle to get there attention. Another direct thing from Dad, it didn't matter how loud it was we knew it when we heard it.

I prayed for him when he told me he was going to be leaving his job in Florida, moving to Texas and working full time as a financial minister. They call it, "Life Stewardship" minister. I prayed for him again when he got a job offer with the church he is at now. I struggled in prayer right alongside Gunnar and Missy. It was not an easy decision-yet I believe he has made the right one. Although I will never be able to call him "Pastor Gunnar." He is not Pastor to me! He is big brother and I know all his secrets. But I will never tell you them because most of them would get me in trouble as well.

Gunnar, I am proud of the godly husband, father, son, brother, pastor and friend you have turned out to be. I am thankful for the people that God brought into your life at just the right time to help you grow in wisdom and love for Jesus Christ. Keep setting the example for the people in your life. And know whatever phase we come to next, I will be praying for you!

I LOVE YOU!

Your bratty little sister, Susan

Prayer Warriors Unite!

I have a dear friend named Chandra whose 2 year old son named Canon had a liver transplant 9 months ago. She has found another Canon who needs our prayers. Will you join us?

His name is Canon Andrew-he is four years old and from what I can tell had a heart transplant just a few days ago. Find out the full story here. You want to hear a funny side note, Canon the two year olds name is Andrew Canon. Canon the four year old is Canon Andrew! How great is that!

I am hoping that all of us who prayed for Andrew Canon could unite to also pray for Canan Andrew.
If you would like to get the full story of Andrew Canon-fill free to drop by their website http://mgmorrow.com/canon/indexcanon.shtml

They have posted some great new photos of Canon that really captures his personality. This is one of the new ones that made me laugh when I saw it.


Okay here is another one, I couldn't resist!



Now is that not the sweetest dear, to let Canon just sit there!

Please forward this to anyone and everyone you know. I want us to reach out to the Canon in Little Rock, Arkansas to let this little family know that we too stand beside them in prayer!

Five Ingredient Friday-MY FIRST ONE!

Quick and Easy Casserole-A staple in our house-great to fix if you are too lazy to throw a gourmet meal together or just in a hurry to eat!

Brown 1 lb. ground meat (I substitute ground turkey) in a skillet

Add Small Amount of Chopped Onion

Add the following:

1 can Ranch Style Beans

1 can Franco American spaghetti (traditional kind, "franco" threw me for a loop)

1 can of tomatoes (any style)

Mix all ingredients together. It is ready to eat, or put in a casserole with grated cheese on top. Bake at 350 until cheese melts.

This is very easy-but oh so good!

P.S This was given to me as wedding gift from the elders wives of the church where I grew up. Some of you who also attended this church, may have the same recipe in your wedding book!

For more great tips, visit Overwhelmed with Joy's place

Falling Into Reading Challenge

1. The Family by Karen Kingsbury
Book # 4 in another one of Karen's favorite series. This one comes out in October and I have been drumming my fingers on my table waiting, hoping, counting down the days that I can read on. I just don't understand why the publishing company just doesn't publish them sooner.


2. The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Caught- Book 5 of the Yada Yada Prayer Group Series. I love these books-I laugh, I cry, laugh a little more and cry a little more. I also have added more praise to my prayer time.



3. The Novelist-I never heard of this writer until I looked at everyone else's "Falling Into Books" list. I am always looking for a new author to add to my list...so here goes!

4. Divine-Another Karen Kingsbury but I have not tried this one yet. I have heard from my peeps that is a great read but I am running a little slow

5. Mark of the Lion Series-My sister, Missy, bought the book for me I started to read but never finished it. I think I started reading 1-3 of #1. Anyway, my point is, since Barb at A Chelsea Morning has praised this book in her "Falling Into Reading" list and even commented on my blog on how great this series will be for me, I have decided to make this one of my fall into books.

For more "Falling Into Reading" lists, see Katrina at Callapidder Days-get inspired!

Thirteen Things I Do To Unwind

I am learning how to relax, not sweat the small stuff, take life one step at a time-this is what I have done to help me in the process!

1. Bake-I pull out my favorite comfort food cookbooks, usually sweets and bake. I have started buying the pre-made cooking dough at the grocery store. It helps me when I am really stressed! Something about the smell of cookies makes me wind down.

2. Rock a Baby- My favorite baby these days is my nephew Elijah. The other night-he fell asleep cuddled in my arms-his sweet face did me in. I teared up just thinking about how fast time has gone.

3. Read a Book-Nothing too smart though! I have to have a good, inspirational book without the thinking. I can't do too much thinking if I am trying to wind down-it will only stress me out!

4. Scrapbook-Plug my IPOD to my ears and let the pages come to life before me. I get made fun of at the crops b/c I often don't talk while I am scrapbooking. I am a big talker but NOT when I am getting scrappy. Don't know why-it's just my quirk

5. Watch a Classic Movie-I love Ginger Rodgers and Fred Estaire, I love Shirley Temple, Cary Grant, Doris Day, Rock Hudson, Alfred Hitchcock-love them. They are fun to watch and I love to see the styles of yesterday in clothing and the furniture.

6. Fill My House with Praise- A friend of mine started me on this not too long ago and I have done it ever since. Make a CD of your favorite praise and worship music-crank it up throughout your house and you will see your frown turn upside down. It's not easy being grumpy with praise in your home

7. Clean-I don't mean chore type cleaning. I mean the clean out the closet, step back and enjoy the progress type cleaning. I am working one step at a time and it is really helping me to calm down. Probably because there isn't a lot of junk laying around!

8. Blog-I love to read my friends and families blogs. I wind down at night by checking in with my friends daily

9. Workout-If I am mad or uptight-I have learned to get on that treadmill and walk it out! I also reap the benefits of watching the pounds drop away!

10. Coffee with the Chicks-I don't like to do big group coffee dates b/c it gets too complicated but I do love one-on-one conversations with my friends discussing life as we know it

11. Take a Trip to the Library- like to go when I am not in a rush and skim the ailses. I like to check out the movie section for those classic movies I was telling you about. I like to read the current magazines. I like to sit in the children's section-pull out a Dr. Seuss or Junie B and read while sitting in the bean bags!

12. Hang out with Jeff-I am saving the best ones for last. I love to just chill! Especially when we have no place we have to be. With him working nights, me working days-the weekends are our time to just kick back and hang out together. Since the week is normally a hi-how are you doing today-got to go kind of day!

13. Pray-Lately I have started praying during the good days and the bad. What a difference this has made in my life! It always puts life into perspective!

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

The Office Is HERE!

The Office-Starts Tonight!

I laughed out loud on this one!!!!

WWFM: Fall Wreaths For 1/2 the Price!

I love this time of the year when you can decorate your house for the fall. Before I make a trip to the local design store to buy that way too priced wreath-I always like to see if I can recreate one of my own-for half the price. I go to Better Homes and Gardens Online print the picture and head to my local craft store and see what I can do. The trick to saving money, go the week they have the fall foliage on sale along with the coupon they put in the paper on Sundays. FABULOUS!!!

For More What Works For Me See Shannon at Rocks for My Dryer!

Saturday Night Fun!

This Saturday marks our first time to keep all 3 of the Johnson kids. I am happy to report that Elijah did very well with us! We were afraid he would cry but that turned out not to be the case. In fact, he was all smiles!!

The night started off with Katy saying to Uncle Jeff, "Why are you fat?" I thought I was going to die laughing! Gunnar and Missy quickly exited the house because they didn't know what to say. No worries Jeff's feelings were NOT hurt. I realize I need to fill you in on why I was laughing so hard, I don't want you to think me heartless. The night before Jeff wanted me to walk on his back inorder to pop it. I have never been successful with this but he keeps asking anyway. I told him I didn't know why he thought this time would be any different. He says "Well, you have put on a few extra pounds!" So you see, when Katy said that-well I couldn't of been more proud! Paybacks always getcha!

Uncle Jeff and I have little traditions that we do with the girls when we keep them. We always make pizza and we always play beauty shop. Over the years, we have been covered with make-up, nail polish and had our hair pulled up with bows and clips. Uncle Jeff likes to act like he doesn't know what they are doing when they start putting on make-up. Which of course sends Faith and Katelyn into fits of laughter. Fortunatly since we were not at our house, we did not have thier make-up kit so we were safe.

One thing new though, Faith read to us a chapter out of "Little House in the Big Woods." These were my favorite books growing up. I still have them on my shelf and I have read them over and over again.
Jeff was full of questions! I think to see how long Faith would go without getting frustrated.

"Where are the resturants?"
"What did they do for food?"
"Who calls their dad Pa? That's a silly name!"
"What did they watch on television?"

Any question he could think of totally off course he would ask. At one point, Faith says, "Uncle Jeff, they did not have that stuff back then. Would you listen to the story now!"

Anyway, all in all it was a great night and the kids were sweet and honory as ever! Just like their Uncle Jeff and Aunt Susan (or Sue Sue as they call me!)

 

The Stranger

A few years after I was born, my Dad met a stranger who was new to our small town. From the beginning, Dad was fascinated with this enchanting newcomer and soon invited him to live with our family. The stranger was quickly accepted and was around from then on.

As I grew up, I never questioned his place in my family. In my young mind, he had a special niche. My parents were complementary instructors: Mom taught me good from evil, and Dad taught me to obey. But the stranger...he was our storyteller. He would keep us spellbound for hours on end with adventures, mysteries and comedies.

If I wanted to know anything about politics, history or science, he always knew the answers about the past, understood the present and even seemed able to predict the future! He took my family to the first major league ball game. He made me laugh, and he made me cry. The stranger never stopped talking, but Dad didn't seem to mind.Sometimes, Mom would get up quietly while the rest of us were shushing each other to listen to what he had to say, and she would go to the kitchen for peace and quiet. (I wonder now if she ever prayed for the stranger to leave.)

Dad ruled our household with certain moral convictions, but the stranger never felt obligated to honor them. Profanity, for example, was not allowed in our home... Not from us, our friends or any visitors. Our longtime visitor, however, got away with four-letter words t hat burned my ears and made my dad squirm and my mother blush.My Dad didn't permit the liberal use of alcohol. But the stranger encouraged us to try it on a regular basis. He made cigarettes look cool, cigars manly and pipes distinguished. He talked freely (much too freely!) about sex. His comments were sometimes blatant, so metimes suggestive, and generally embarrassing.I now know that my early concepts about relationships were influenced strongly by the stranger.

Time after time, he opposed the values of my parents, yet he was seldom rebuked... And NEVER asked to leave.More than fifty years have passed since the stranger moved in with our family. He has blended right in and is not nearly as fascinating as he was at first. Still, if you could walk into my parents' den today, you would still find him sitting over in his corner, waiting for someone to listen to him talk and watch him draw his pictures.

His name?....We just call him, "TV."

**Note: This should be required reading for every household in America!

**He has a younger sister now. We call her "Computer."

i am pink-part two

I thought I would write about all of this sooner but this week, as you already know, has been one of those weeks!

Here is the main lesson that wraps up all that I learned from "Pink Impact."

I AM NOT A VICTIM ANYMORE! Don't label me "Child of Divorce" or "Child of Domestic Abuse." Don't label me "that girl that fell into temptation during college." Call me Susan, Child of God-Forgiven by God now living by Grace.

You see, we all have are "labels" that we could wear proudly. We want to use these labels to define us, control us and categorize us. Because it is easier to hold on to the victim role than to release the pain. But funny thing is, once you let go, you realize how much sweeter life can be without all the baggage. Bitterness, hurt feelings, anger take root when we refuse to to let it go. God does not want us to go through life dropping the victim card each time we feel the need to be noticed. Instead His desire is for us to live freely, abundant lives, speaking the truth in love and letting go and moving beyond yesterday.

At PINK IMPACT, Christine Caine told a story that is found in Exodus 8:1-10. Many of us have grown up hearing the story of the 10 Commandments. We can tell you each of the plagues because it was ingrained in us during Bible study. But let me see if you have noticed this part of the story. Frogs were everywhere during the 2nd plague. Frogs in the water, the toilet, the oven, the food. Frogs in the bed, closets and cupboards. Frogs were EVERYWHERE!

pharaoh goes to Moses and says "Pray to the Lord to take the frogs away from me and my people, and I will let your people go." (verse 8)

Moses says, "I leave you the honor of setting the official time for me and to pray for you and your officials and your people that you and your houses may be rid of the frogs, except for those that remain in the Nile."

Pharoahs answer: "Tomorrow." (verse 10)

Now here is what Christine pointed out to us. If God is willing to take away your FROG then why are we waiting until TOMORROW to get this things removed from our lives? Why do we enjoy the victim role? If God has given us the honor of setting the official times for us to rid ourselves of our FROGS then why are we not running to His throne and laying all that stands in our way from being free from the FROGS!

Today, I am going to stand tall, raise my hands in the air and scream at the top of my lungs,

"I AM NOT A VICTIM ANYMORE!!!!!!!"
"I AM FREE TO BE ALL THAT GOD HAS CALLED ME TO BE!!!!!!"
"I CHOOSE FROM THIS DAY FORWARD, TO LIVE MY LIFE OUT LOUD-SEEKING AND SAVING THE LOST!!!!"

Maybe you would like to join me in doing the same?!?!

Don't let your FROG take over-allow God to remove them from your life. Be free, sweet friends! BE FREE!

The Office - Diversity

5 Days and Counting!

This is my favorite episode! Diversity Day was hilarious!!

The Countdown to The Office Begins

Watch this clip from "The Office" titled "Mind Control"

6 days and counting!!

I Have Been Blessed

Yesterday, was one of those days! I did not want to be cranky but it was a struggle to stay pleasant. I knew it was Satan trying to attack my spirit since I had Bible Study that night. Doesn't it always seem that way? The nights that you have a planned "Divine Appointment with God" is the days that nothing seems to go right. But a few things happened to me yesterday that helped me refocus my mood from bad to joy!

1. My mom had a huge answer to prayer in her life. She had a job interview with a local church after months of praying that the Lord would deliver her from her current work situation. I was blessed because of her joy!

2. As I was frantically driving from errand to errand yesterday-"Blessed Assurance" came on the radio. Not only is the title of my blog but the my personal love song with my Heavenly Father. Also the title of my first bible study that is still in the works. I felt such a peace about me after singing along with this song. It is almost like God knew I needed an extra measure of His love-which He gave me in the gift of song.

3. The team I work with calls me yesterday and today letting me know how much they appreciate all my effort this week. It feels good to know that people in your work world acknowledge your hard work and appreciate YOU!

4. My friend on the way to Bible study had me pull into "Krispy Kreme" and purchased me a chocolate glazed donut and then AFTER bible study I decided I deserved a Sonic Cherry Limeade. She pulls out a coupon for a free Medium Cherry Limeade and says, "Here it's on me!" She is my new best friend!

5. A fellow Blogger, which I will admit, I hold in high esteem-posted for her Thirteen Things-13 scriptures. Each one of these scriptures was another way of God affirming to me that He is my Strength and Comfort in times of trouble. I have so much enjoyed her talking about her daughters and son. Her grandbabies, her painting projects and all the other wonderful words of wisdom she shares with us. She even offered to give me a hug yesterday on my comments. So thank you Blessed Beyond Measure for inspiring me to keep my head up and reach new heights.

If you have been blessed by a fellow blogger-please visit Christian Women online. It is a new thing they have started each Friday and I think a wonderful gift to give to a fellow blogger who has touched your life!


P.S. A song that has been running in my head since this morning is "I Have Been Blessed" by Martina McBride. I thought it ironic since this was the song I woke up singing!

Happy Friday!!!!

Thirteen Things I Need To Get Off My Chest...Right NOW!!

I am having one of THOSE days so please allow me to vent.

1. Why does it seem that whenever you wake up refreshed and renewed you end up having a horrible day?

2. Why do I get stuck with the "busy" work? Do people not see that I am busy? I am not faking it-I AM BUSY! I don't need fill in work!

3. Why does Rosie O'Donnell get a spot on THE VIEW? And why is Elisabeth still working there?! Barbara reprimanded her for being passionate about abortion. She told her to calm down-Elisabeth said "It's very hard to calm down when we are talking about human life!" (By the way, I do not watch The View-just say this on You Tube last night and it got me all fired up!)

4. Why does it seem that the world is passing me by? I have started to pray that God would remove me from the sidelines-I am sick of being a bench warmer!

5. Why do women gossip about other people especially other women? It is mean and ugly and it hurts peoples feelings! I admit I struggle with this but have come a long way and refuse to hurt another woman feelings because of my own insecurities. That all gossip is-insecure people trying to make themselves look better. (ouch my toes hurt!)

6. Why can I not get ahead with life's everydays: laundry, cleaning, decluttering?

7. Why do I have to hold your hand when you are an adult? This is based on a call I just received from a customer-I wanted to say, "Duh!" after they asked me for the upteenth time how to price a bed. (I told you I was cranky!)

8. Why do we get stuck next to the screaming kid at the restaurant? I know now that I just posted this, my kids will be that screaming kid at a restaurant one day. Oh well!

9. Why am I in such a bad mood?

10. Why does Satan always attack me? Can't you go pick on someone else for a little while-give me a break!

11. Why do people drive so close to you in the middle of rush hour traffic?

12. Why can't people see me, realize I am having one of those days and instead of telling me to get over it-offer me a hug? Or instead of running the opposite way from me-just be a friend, give this girl a hug, better yet choclate-I need choclate!

13. Why do I have so much work to do but feel like I should just go take a nap to put myself in a better frame of mind?

If you made it all the way through-bless you! You are sweet to listen to me complain. I really am okay just fighting a little monster we like to call "Overworked!"

For more TT13-go here otherwise, have a nice day!!!

WWFM: Dancing with the Stars

I will tell you why "Dancing with the Stars" works for me. It is family friendly, fun to watch and it helps people grow beyond thier comfort zones. My favorite part is the clips from rehearsals. Especailly seeing the dancers and stars without make-up struggling to get the dance just right.

Who are your predictions for who is going to win season 3? I have my dibs on three people: Emmit Smith, Mario Lopez and Joey Lawerence. The Chicks didn't really impress me...yet. I am hoping that Harry Hamiln goes far b/c i was a big fan of Lisa last season and would hate to see him go home so quickly. And I am a huge fan of his partner, Ashley. Bless her heart she had it bad last season with Master P so I am hoping that she is rewarded for her hard work last season.

To see more WWFM go see Shannon at Rocks in My Dryers

A Great Day in the Johnson House

Click here to watch Katy's big day unfold. Uncle Jeff and I were so proud of this moment. It was an impromptu visit to see the kids and what a great day it turned out to be. When I first arrived, Katy says "I am going to ride without my training wheels today. You want to watch me?" I took pictures to chronicle her BIG DAY! She did soooooo good! I asked Missy how it felt to have her 2nd child riding bikes and she said it feels strange knowing she is old enough to ride her bike. I am proud because she is only 4 years old! Someone told Gunnar that he couldn't believe his kids ride their bikes at such a young age. Gunnar says, "They will try anything with a little encouragement!" True that, bro! True that!

Faith had a "Community Project" in school where she had to make a model of something that resembled a part of her community. Well she picked the local Sno Cone Stand! Figures she would pick that since the Johnson family is known for the many, many trips that they take to the sno cone stand in the summer. Faith was upset that Barbie was not able to have her boyfriend with her at the table but Missy did not want to put too many toys in case they were stolen while being displayed at school.



And last but not least...Elijah! He has started crawling and has also started pulling himself up. He will be walking in no time flat. He has 5 teeth and it is the cutest thing because he runs his tongue over his teeth and starts to chew. As you can see from his pictures he does not lack personality!





Okay Blogger is not letting me upload any more pictures so I will have to do another set soon. I still have more to share!

I REMEMBER 9-11

It was a gorgeous fall day, a lot like it is today. I was living in Bedford-working as a buyer for a furniture store and working part time at Chili's-still single but had been dating Jeff for 9 months. I woke up a little late b/c I did not have to be at work until 9:30 or 10 that morning. It felt great to get a few minutes of extra sleep. My alarm clock went off at 7:30-I hit snooze a few times. I was listening to KLTY our local Christian radio program-I am a firm believer in starting your day off with praise. Frank Reed stopped a song to ask us to pray for the people in the World Trade Center-the North tower had just been struck by an airplane. If you remember no one, yet was talking about this being a terrorist attack. I rose to the side of my bed and began to pray. "Lord, not sure what is going on but please protect the people in the World Trade Center." I got into the shower-began getting dressed. My mom also worked at the furniture store so I had an urgent need to get into work. Plus a co-worker of ours father was retired FBI-I knew he would know a little more details and I was curious to know what was happening. I was not scared mind you-this just seemed like a freak accident to me.

I walked into the store about the same time that the second plane hit the south tower. The image above is the scene I saw on the screen. I still have a hard time getting this one out of my head. The rest of the morning was spent glued to the television screen. In the entertainment room, surrounded by wide screen televisions we sat watching the rest of the story unfold. They started to show people falling out of the building-I guess I should say jumping out of the buildings. They showed people screaming from the top floors for someone to help them. Why the media showed us these images is still beyond me? But I am thankful-because I felt more connected to the gravity of the situation. I continued to pray for these people who were on my screen.

Then the towers fell! "Mom! Did everyone get out?!" My ex-military-son of retired FBI-gently told me that no everyone did not get out there was not any time. I cried! We closed early-or atleast I left early-not sure which just new I came home and wrote in my prayer journal. Still have it-will pull out and post my prayer.

Fast forward to a few days later-Mom and I are sitting at DFW airport about to go to a furniture market in Atlanta, GA. We were the first flight to leave DFW airport. There were only 8 of us on board, we all sat in first-class so that the weight would all be up front. Fear was in the eyes of every passenger and flight crew. The 8 of us bonded that flight. Most flights you go about your business and ignore the person next to you. For that brief time, we were the best of friends. Some had been stuck in Dallas for days and were trying to get home-Mom and I were the only ones going on business. Ended up that the show was cancelled the day we arrived so we spent the next few days touring Atlanta. Came home from our trip, Jeff picked us up at the airport and he was not happy with me for taking off. In fact, if you ask him if he likes Atlanta, GA-he says, "Hell no! That is the day I almost broke up with Susan for taking the trip so soon after 9-11."

How I have changed since 9-11:
1. I pray more for our country
2. I watch the news religiously-I was never into politics before 9-11
3. I cherish my family and the time that we get to spend together

How has it changed you? I am curious to hear your remarks

i am pink

I have just come from a weekend women's conference at Gateway Church called "Pink Impact." There is so much on my heart that I want, desire, need to share with all of you but I just can't seem to get the words to describe all that God showed me the last few days. I am awed by His power, purpose and timing.

Do you ever get those moments where you know God was directly speaking to you? Well this happened for me this weekend. I did not really think I wanted to go to this conference first of all. Since our house has been non-stop the last few weeks, I felt like I needed to take a time of rest to get back on track. I never really felt at peace about leaving my house with laundry, dishes and bags that are still waiting to be unpacked and not to mention that it just needed a good dusting and vaccuming. The conference started Thursday night. Wednesday night, I was laying in bed praying the prayer of the week "God do I go or stay home and get caught up?" Thursday morning-I woke feeling like I needed to be there. You know those moments where you feel in your gut you will miss out on something extraordinary if you don't go?!?! Well this is what I was feeling. I called my mom to tell her I was going and she said, "Good I prayed for you today to have peace about going."

Already as I begin to type out the first part of what God showed me I can feel tears coming up to the surface yet again. I am telling you it was that moving! How do I put into words everything that God showed me? Not someone else, me! You see, blog friends, family non-blog friends, everything and I mean everything that I have struggled with ALL my life was dealt with these last few days. EVERYTHING! Now I have broken free from a lot of the bondage from my past-Thank ya Jesus! (I have been reading Yada Yada Prayer Group-hence the "Thank ya Jesus" being added to my vocabulary not that it wasn't there before I just say it like Flo-read the books you will understand) But never have I dealt with the shame of my college years. Folks if you knew me in college you would not even recongize me today. If you did know me and are thinking "Well, you weren't that bad!" Then you saw Suzie Sunday School-you did not see Suzie Sinner! I was the queen of the mask! I was the queen of appearances. I wanted the church kids to think I was still acting like a church kid. I wanted the non-church kids to think that I was one of them. Although i assure I stuck out like a sore thumb-especially when i did not follow most of the lingo that went with the party lifestyle. I was not an authentic Christian. I was not allowing God to move and transform me the way that He wanted and desired for my life. Over the last 10 years, I have gone through a major rehaul. I am still a work in progress. But the last few days I have gone from acting to being the Christain leader God has called me to be.

Tune in later-I will write more but I getting to the good stuff so I need to go pray it out!
God bless!

WWFMW: Black Bean Salsa

Here is an appetizer that came from "Food that Says Welcome" by Barbara Smith, Michael W Smith's Mother

2 (10 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes w/ green chilies, drained
2 (11 oz) cans yellow sweet corn, drained
2 (15.5 oz) cans black beans, drained
1 red onion, chopped
2 Tablespoons fresh lime juice
3 Tablespoons olive oil
Fresh chopped cilantro
Salt and Pepper to Taste
Tortilla chips, to serve

Mix all ingredients and serve with chips
Serves 10-12

This is great for parties, football games, potluck or just to have around the house as a pre-dinner snack. Hope you enjoy!

For more great ideas visit Rocks in My Dryer-this week is a great one if you have children in school-check it out!!

Labor Day Weekend

As we were heading home from "Road Trip 2006" Jeff says, "Next weekend is Labor Day-want to go to Austin?" I didn't even have to think about it, "Yes! Let's go!" From that moment in the car, I started dreaming, thinking and my mouth was watering for one thing and one thing only...CHUY'S! I love this place! Yes, we have one in Dallas but it is not the same as being in Austin. We spent the early part of the evening at the "Bat Festival" in Austin, TX. For those of you outside the area, at dusk each night-millions of bats will fly out under Congress bridge. It's quite impressive really-you won't believe how many people came out to see the bats. Here is a picture so you can get an idea of what it looked like.





Okay back to the original post, Chuy's. My all time favorite dish is "Beef Burrito w/ Boom Boom Sauce". I love it! Mouth watering good! We get there-waited an hour for our table-no worries though we had chips and jalapeno ranch! YUM! I did not mind the wait either be/c I knew that soon I would be having a good ole' Beef Burrito with Boom Boom sauce. Miss Waitress comes to the table to take our orders, not having even looked at the menu, I say "Beef Burrito with Boom Sauce." Which she so rudely says, "We don't serve Boom-Boom Sauce at this location." WHAT?!?!?!?!

I had to SETTLE for quesadillas and was not a happy camper but did not make a big deal about it since I was with a group of people and we had just waited over an hour. Fast forward to the next evening, after traveling to Fredericksburg Jeff says, "Where would you like to eat?"

"Can we go to the Chuy's off Duval street?"

And reason # 5000 something of why I love Jeff-he said yes b/c he knew it would make me happy! Oh and we had Jenn call her friend who waits tables at this particular location to make sure they did in fact have Boom Boom Sauce.

(Please Note: Boom Boom sauce is NOT on the menu but if you order a beef burrito tell them you want the boom boom sauce most Chuy's carry it.)

Tag You're It!!

I never do this but thought I would give it a try after reading Boo-Mama's answers, funny we have a lot in common. So if you are reading this please know you are now tagged and must comment on my blog when through.

1. If you make sweet tea, do you use Luzianne, Lipton or _______ whatever your brand is?

Luzianne - only because it sounds more Texan when you say in a southern draw "Luzi-ANNNE!"

2. What brand of toilet paper do you buy, and is it the larger rolls or regular?

Costco's name brand, "Kirkland" I buy in bulk-I like to keep my toilet paper stocked under my sink out of the big wrapper in a basket. It looks nice and is easy to get to in case you run out. Hubby is very good at replacing the roll (I just thought I would send him a compliment via blog land)

3. Which brand of bath soap do you use? Is it body wash or bar style?

Body Wash-I normally use Dove but I just started using the Johnson's adult body wash and I love it-you skin is soft the whole day and you smell so clean

4. Which cereal do you buy for yourself?

Special K with Strawberries

5. What brand of dishwasher detergent do you use and is it liquid or tablets?

Again, the Costco brand, "Kirkland" I love the bulk!

6. What is your favorite fruit to eat?

Strawberries! But any fruit is fine with me except pears, never been a fan of the pear.

7. Which brand of clothes detergent do you use?

Gain with Snuggles fabric softener

8. Do you like chocolate?
Are you crazy?! Who doesn't like chocolate

9. Are you right-handed or left-handed?

Right.

10. Do you still write checks or use a debit card?

Debit card, checks are such a hassle and why would you want to waste time writing a check-that is so uncool these days!!!


Okay friends, get yours done and send back to me-no stress just fun!