Today I have a word from God

2 Corinthians 1 (The Message)

 ^3-5All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us.

I want to tell you something…no I don’t want to tell you but I will because God commands it. For many years I led a double life. I was a Christian and sinner, big time sinner. I stopped because while I was sinning I was separated from God and it really hurt my heart. Sinning was like a slap in the face to God the one who has loved me with his whole unyielding heart. I trampled on that sacrificial love every time I sinned. The greatest joy I have ever found was when I was closest to God. I couldn’t take being separated from him any longer.

And do you know that when I finally reached out, asked forgiveness and truly turned from sinning, I found that he had never left me. He was right behind me every day, I had turned away from God but God had never left me. Turning and finding him there, my goodness, showed me just how great his love really is.

It wasn’t easy to turn away from sin. Sin had become a habit and Satan did not want me to forget. I’ll share one thing that I did and continue to have to do. I discovered that I had sinful memories all around me. Those memories either tempted me to go back to sinning or they made me feel guilty about a sin I had already asked forgiveness for. Neither is good. Neither is how God wants you to live. So, one by one I am getting rid of the memories. How do I do it? By praying over an object, a place, a word or phrase and sometimes a person that reminds me of the sinning nature, and that’s real praying not flippant, fast and insincere. Sometimes I’d ask others to pray. Sometimes I prayed. When I prayed I was very specific. I have a dress which I love to wear but it held too many memories. Did I get rid of it? No, I didn’t have to. I prayed that God would remove the memories of the sins committed while wearing that dress. And he did.

God is gracious and loving and wants to forgive you. Just turn.

You can get out of your sinning habits too but not without the strength of God’s love holding you up, some powerful prayer warrior friends whom you can be truly honest with and a lot of real prayer. Of course a quiet time where you read God’s word every single day is a must. Remember it’s not God who walks away from us but us who walk away from God. Your quiet time brings you closer. If I get too far away I can’t feel his arms holding me up and I could fall again.   

Psalm 32 (New International Version)

 ¹ Blessed is he
       whose transgressions are forgiven,
       whose sins are covered.

 ² Blessed is the man
       whose sin the LORD does not count against him
       and in whose spirit is no deceit.

 ³ When I kept silent,
       my bones wasted away
       through my groaning all day long.

 ⁴ For day and night
       your hand was heavy upon me;
       my strength was sapped
       as in the heat of summer.
       Selah

 ⁵ Then I acknowledged my sin to you
       and did not cover up my iniquity.
       I said, "I will confess
       my transgressions to the LORD "—
       and you forgave
       the guilt of my sin.
       Selah

More updated 7-19-09

The most difficult thing for me had to do with forgiveness. I managed to forgive others but I couldn’t forgive myself. I have so much pride that I thought I should have known better. I thought I was guiltier than others because I did know better. I thought that it was too much guilt to be forgiven. I couldn’t even accept God’s forgiveness. After having so much pride I went in the complete opposite direction. I thought I was unworthy of forgiveness or love. I didn’t think it was possible for anyone to love someone like me.

But God loved me! And I praise His Holy name for it! He loved me so much that he had patience for my foolishness and gentleness when guiding me toward forgiveness. Man oh man, it felt so good to be forgiven, to know God loved me no matter what.

If you’re holding on to old guilt, let it go! Nothing brings peace like letting go of guilt.

I tell my students all the time, “It’s OK, no one’s perfect, we all make mistakes, just fix it and go on.” They always look so relieved to hear me say that. I guess I needed to tell myself that too.  

If you’re still holding onto guilt read about Peter in Mathew 26:69-75 and then John 21:7-18a  or read about the life of Paul in Acts or the life of David in I and II Samuel. God not only loved these men he was able to use them in mighty ways but first they accepted forgiveness.

Even More

One trick I recently learned from God and it’s helped me a lot comes from Philippians 4:8.

^8”Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Actually if you look at verse 9 first, it says, “whatever you have learned…from me…put into practice and the God of peace will be with you” In verse 8 it lists things to dwell on, to think about. So I actually sat down and wrote out a list of things that are pure or lovely or honorable, etc. So now whenever Satan tries to tempt me I pull out my mental list and think about those things which are from God instead. It works!

While I was making my lists I realized that the things that are most “right and praiseworthy” and so on are found in the Bible. So when Satan wants to play hardball I step up to the plate with my Bible and read.

Spiritual Gifts:
What are they and what are mine?

Prayer Requests 

Randy Parker is still rehabilitating from a severe stroke

Bill Dodd and many others as they manage Christian single activities

Donna’s son Elijah who continues to be very sick

Children and teachers on summer break

Our nation’s financial crises

Our nation’s spiritual crises

Our nation’s safety

Each other, as we face our own spiritual battles

Conservative News Sites

I recommend these over your local networks any and every day of the week.

·         http://www.onenewsnow.com/

·         http://pajamasmedia.com/ ***personal fav

·         http://michellemalkin.com/

Books 

		Name: What Women Wish You Knew about Dating: A Single Guy's Guide to Romantic Relationships Author: Stephen W. Simpson Rating: 5 Stars
2.		Name: Boundaries in Dating Author: Henry Cloud and John Townsend Rating: 4.5 Stars
3.		Name: The Ten Commandments of Dating: Time-Tested Laws for Building Successful Relationships Author: Ben Young and Dr. Samuel Adams Rating: 4.5 Stars
4.		Name: I Kissed Dating Goodbye Author: Joshua Harris Rating: 4 Stars
5.		Name: Dating with Pure Passion: More than Rules More than Courtship More than a Formula Author: Rob Eagar Rating: 4.5 Stars
6.		Name: Waiting and Dating: A Sensible Guide to a Fulfilling Love Relationship Author: Myles Munroe Rating: 5 Stars
7.		Name: Devotions For Dating Couples: Building A Foundation For Spiritual Intimacy Author: Samuel Adams and Ben Young Rating: 4 Stars
8.		Name: Boy Meets Girl: Say Hello to Courtship Author: Joshua Harris Rating: 4.5 Stars
9.		Name: For Men Only: A Straightforward Guide to the Inner Lives of Women Author: Shaunti Feldhahn and Jeff Feldhahn Rating: 4.5 Stars
10.		Name: Stop Dating the Church!: Fall in Love with the Family of God (Lifechange Books) Author: Joshua Harris Rating: 4 Stars

Calendar

Middle GA Christian Singles Hangout

 Facebook, people, just go to Facebook.com ,
not everything is there but a lot is

Weekly Habits

·        Monday nights- Sonny's Bar B Q in Warner Robins at 6 pm then tennis behind the sheriff's office

·        Monday nights- Eagles Springs clubhouse line dance lessons at 7 pm (novice level)

·        Wednesday nights- attend a local church service

·        Thursday nights- Line dance lessons (slightly more advanced) American Legion in Warner Robins, Watson Blvd at 7:30 pm, heads up they sell alcoholic beverages

·        Thursday nights- skating at skating rink on hwy 247

·        Sunday morning and evening- attend a local church service

Local Events

·         13WMAZ.com

·         Macon Telegraph

Advertisements

Ocmulgeeexpeditions

http://www.ocmulgeeexpeditions.com/

This is a new business which I’m totally excited over.

The Joshua Cup Coffee aside from a great cup of coffee in any flavor you can imagine also has sandwiches, wifi, downtown in walking distance Macon (next to the library) and laid back atmosphere. Hours are 6:30 am to 10:30 pm and closed on Sunday. I just love it there.

Gregory West Dance Studio
http://www.gregorywest.com/

Close to my Heart Scrapbooking with Lisa Mosely
https://lmosely.myctmh.com/

Georgia Wilderness Society, Hiking/kayaking
http://www.georgiawildernesssociety.org/events.html

Macon/Warner Robins Middle Aged Singles Hangout

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=62958757131

Boycott Continued
Pepsi products

http://www.onenewsnow.com/Culture/Default.aspx?id=379832

This one hurts, I love Mountain Dew, but I will do what is right

Fun Link

·         ChristianHappenings.com

·         Funhikes.com

·         Canoeing and kayaking newsletter

·         Ocmulgee Archaeological Society

·         Truett-McConnell College newsletter

·         Facebook.com

A Few Stray Thoughts

You know I thought the last couple months were hard. Randy had a stroke. I didn’t know if he’d make it. Tammy’s daughter had her baby prematurely. We didn’t know how that would turn out.  All the new medicine the doctor put me on had me puking and sleeping for weeks. I lost so much weight, but don’t worry I gained it all back. So much happened!

Then this month came along and hit me between the eyes like a two by four. I still can’t believe my son wrecked my car. I loved that car. It had four wheel drive, a sun roof and it was Northside Eagle blue. That was a beautiful car, man, a beautiful car. Man! Sigh!

Then came the IEPs and the placement meetings at the same time. I only had two IEPs to do this year. TWO! And I had to re-write them seven times. SEVEN! I had to re-write them seven times!

I won’t even talk to you of placement meetings. They make me sad. I work so hard with a student all year. I grow so close to a child all year. I lovingly hand them over to the next teacher and watch and hear and know they will not love them like I did.

So much happened and yet and still we are and always have been in God’s hands in God’s plan.

Several months ago I prayed, “God help me, I can’t keep making this car payment”. My new car is much less expensive. I prayed, “God help me I can’t keep feeling like this”. My new medicine makes me feel great.

We are and always have been in God’s hands and in God’s plan.

UPDATE May 8


Happy



Mother's Day

Intentional Living with Randy Carlsonwas asking mom’s to give one good piece of advice today. The wisest thing I ever finally learned helped with both my kids and my students. That is; my attitude matters. If I’m in a bad mood or sick or sad or tired or cranky or lazy or whatever it shows up in their behavior. So if I take care of myself I will have a better day for more reasons than one.

On a side note; I have been dealing with pride lately. Pride for helping others, pride for my accomplishments, pride for myself instead of giving the credit and glory to God as I should. That’s a hard one to fight. It feels natural to be proud of yourself, but natural is worldly and we are not called to be of this world.

The other day I caught myself filling up with pride and asked God to help me. Within the hour I was face to face with someone I had wronged and needed to make amends! Watch out what you pray for. God is listening.

On another note, I have been attending Christ Chapel in Warner Robins. The Sermons are deep. The praise is charismatic and genuine. The band rocks. The people are familiar. I like it. I have also been attending a women’s Sunday school class at Second Baptist in Warner Robins. The teacher is enthusiastic and the group is warm. I recommend it. They meet at 9 am.

A Few Good Books

These books helped me understand what went wrong in my marriage and several other relationships I’ve had

·         The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

·         Boundaries, When to Say YES, When To Say NO, To Take Control of Your Life by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend

·         Common Mistakes Singles Make (And How to Avoid Them) by Mary S Whelchel

Prayer Requests 

·         Randy Parker is in rehab for a severe stroke

·         Bill Dodd as he attempts to manage Christian single activities

·         Donna’s son Elijah is very ill  

·         My son, Dood, is allowed to drive, sometimes

·         Our nation’s financial crises

·         Our nation’s spiritual crises

·         Our nation’s safety

·         Each other, as we face our own spiritual battles

Conservative News Sites

I recommend these over your local networks any and every day of the week.

·         http://www.onenewsnow.com/

·         http://pajamasmedia.com/

·         http://michellemalkin.com/

Calendar

·       Macon/Warner Robins Middle Aged Singles Hangout

·       http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=62958757131

Weekly Habits

·         Monday nights- Sonny's Bar B Q in Warner Robins at 6 pm then tennis behind the sheriff's office

·         Monday nights- Eagles Springs clubhouse line dance lessons at 7 pm (novice level)

·         Wednesday nights- attend a local church service

·         Thursday nights- Line dance lessons (slightly more advanced) American Legion in Warner Robins, Watson Blvd at 7:30 pm, heads up they sell alcoholic beverages

·         Sunday morning and evening- attend a local church service

Local Events

·         13WMAZ.com

·         Macon Telegraph

Advertisements

Prinnie-Mack in Warner Robins is a great little coffee/sandwich/wifi/local artist shop but now its even better because an artist we all know and love has her art there.

The Joshua Cup Coffee aside from a great cup of coffee in any flavor you can imagine also has sandwiches, wifi, downtown in walking distance Macon (next to the library) and laid back atmosphere. Hours are 6:30 am to 10:30 pm and closed on Sunday. I just love it there.

Gregory West Dance Studio
http://www.gregorywest.com/

Close to my Heart Scrapbooking with Lisa Mosely
https://lmosely.myctmh.com/

Georgia Wilderness Society, Hiking/kayaking
http://www.georgiawildernesssociety.org/events.html

Macon/Warner Robins Middle Aged Singles Hangout

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=62958757131

Boycott
Pepsi products

http://www.onenewsnow.com/Culture/Default.aspx?id=379832

This one hurts, I love Mountain Dew, but I will do what is right

Fun Link

There’s a new way to keep in touch; Facebook.com, try it.

·         ChristianHappenings.com

·         Funhikes.com

·         Canoeing and kayaking newsletter

·         Ocmulgee Archaeological Society

·         Truett-McConnell College newsletter

·         Macon Arts

A Few Stray Thoughts

I’m back. I’m just so darn blessed I could hardly keep away from telling you how awesome God is even when I needed to take a break and catch my breath.

Soapbox Alert-By the way, to all the single parents out there, taking care of your self is scriptural. You can’t be a great parent unless you are in good condition mentally and physically. So don’t play the martyr. Take time to treat yourself once a week. That’s scripture talking not just Brenda. We all know what God did on the seventh day!

Among my wonderful blessings is my job. I am very blessed to teach in a school where a morning prayer and Bible study are allowed. We have been going slowly through the book The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. It has been like a balm to their hurt.

My students have been injured emotionally. When I was able to say to them “you were no accident” “God planned you to be exactly who you are” “God was there at your birth and it made him happy” it healed them. Every one of us should know that we are who God meant for us to be. Our abilities, our desires, our appearance, our heritage, our experiences are all part of God’s plan for us. “It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.”  Ephesians 1:11

Last month several of my students asked what the prayer of salvation was. I don’t think I could have been more excited. Now I have the great joy of going through their I’m a Christian, Now What book. I thought I had found joy while listening to them pray every morning but hearing them read and discuss scripture is beyond words.

It has calmed them, given them peace, let them know and made them believe that they are loved, really loved. My friend if you don’t have that peace if you doubt your value or that you are loved, I implore you to crack that dusty Bible open and read. God is waiting for you with great excitement.

On a personal note; I’m still loving my new home.

A Few Good Books

These two books help me understand what went wrong in my marriage and several other relationships I’ve had

·         The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

·         Boundaries, When to Say YES, When To Say NO, To Take Control of Your Life by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend

·         Common Mistakes Singles Make (And How to Avoid Them) by Mary S Whelchel

Prayer Requests 

·         Randy Parker is in rehab for a severe stroke

·         Bill Dodd as he attempts to manage Christian single activities

·         My son, Dood, got his driver’s license

·         I’m still looking for a church home

·         Our nation’s financial crises

·         Our nation’s spiritual crises

·         Our nation’s safety

·         Each other, as we face our own spiritual battles

Conservative News Sites

I recommend these over your local networks any and every day of the week.

·         http://www.onenewsnow.com/

·         http://pajamasmedia.com/

·         http://michellemalkin.com/

Calendar

·         Tonight April 3, 2009, 6pm Bible study and dinner on Booth road beside RR tracks in Warner Robins

·         April 5, 2009, Sunday night supper at Logans in Warner Robins

·         April 10, REC night at First Baptist of Centerville  

·         April 12-14, possible Florida river trip, see Bill Dodd for details http://www.ichetucknee.org/springs.html and http://www.ginniespringsoutdoors.com/ 

Weekly Habits

·         Monday nights- Sonny's Bar B Q in Warner Robins at 6 pm then tennis behind the sheriff's office

·         Monday nights- Eagles Springs clubhouse line dance lessons at 7 pm (novice level)

·         Wednesday nights- attend a local church service

·         Thursday nights- Line dance lessons (slightly more advanced) American Legion in Warner Robins, Watson Blvd at 7:30 pm, heads up they sell alcoholic beverages

·         Sunday morning and evening- attend a local church service

Local Events

·         13WMAZ.com

·         Macon Telegraph

Advertisements

Prinnie-Mack in Warner Robins is a great little coffee/sandwich/wifi/local artist shop but now its even better because an artist we all know and love has her art there.

The Joshua Cup Coffee aside from a great cup of coffee in any flavor you can imagine also has sandwiches, wifi, downtown in walking distance Macon (next to the library) and laid back atmosphere. Hours are 6:30 am to 10:30 pm and closed on Sunday. I just love it there.

Gregory West Dance Studio
http://www.gregorywest.com/

Close to my Heart Scrapbooking with Lisa Mosely
https://lmosely.myctmh.com/

Georgia Wilderness Society, Hiking/kayaking
http://www.georgiawildernesssociety.org/events.html

Macon/Warner Robins Middle Aged Singles Hangout

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=62958757131

Boycott
Pepsi products

http://www.onenewsnow.com/Culture/Default.aspx?id=379832

This one hurts, I love Mountain Dew, but I will do what is right

Fun Link

There’s a new way to keep in touch; Facebook.com, try it.

·         ChristianHappenings.com

·         Funhikes.com

·         Canoeing and kayaking newsletter

·         Ocmulgee Archaeological Society

·         Truett-McConnell College newsletter

·         Macon Arts

It's toooo cold to be March!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

UPDATE Feb 19, 09
I wanted to tell you what’s happened to my computer and give you some tips so it doesn’t happen to yours. I have been off line for a week and half and am surviving. My laptop was hacked into, compromised. For you nerd types, a hidden partition was placed on the hard drive where encrypted files were stored. For you non nerd types, it was bad. At Christmas my online checking account was used to make a purchase.

It’s being taken care of. Soon I will have my laptop back and the invader will have been removed and many, many, many walls will be placed up so no other invader can sneak in. Here are three tips they gave me and I give to you.

• Maintain and update ALL security programs, firewalls, patches, filters, virus protection, etc.
• DO NOT hijack any wireless service illegally; when you do this you leave your computer wide open.
• BE CAREFUL when you go to, download or use in anyway sites where ‘free downloads’ are available. Nothing is free. Limewire.com is one.
  
  
  

Again, same Book, I still recommend it.

It’s a good book, a quick read, a lot of information in very little space.

Common Mistakes Singles Make (And How to Avoid Them) by Mary S Whelchel

Prayer Requests 

• My PC is having severe probelms, I am still off line
  Our nation’s financial crises
• Our nation’s spiritual crises
• Our nation’s safety
• Each other, as we face our own spiritual battle

Conservative News Sites

·         http://www.onenewsnow.com/

·         http://pajamasmedia.com/

·         http://michellemalkin.com/

Calendar

Feb. 1, @ 6:00; Superbowl Party @ Nita's house in Warner Robins, for directions email singleweaver@yahoo.com

Feb. 1, @ 6:00, Superbowl Party @ Mike Boone's House in Macon for directions email singleweaver@yahoo.com

Feb. 6, REC Night @ First Baptist CentervilleFeb. 12, Valentine's Dance in Macon

Feb. 14, HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

Feb. 20, @ 6:00, Friday Night Live, Southside Baptist

 Weekly Habits

Monday nights- Sonny's Bar B Q in Warner Robins at 6 pm then tennis behind the sheriff's office

Monday nights- Eagles Springs clubhouse line dance lessons at 7 pm (novice level)

Wednesday nights- attend a local church service

Thursday nights- Bibb Skate Arena on hwy 257 at 7 pm

Thursday nights- Line dance lessons (slighlty more advanced) American Legion in Warner Robins, Watson Blvd at 7:30 pm, heads up they sell alcoholic beverages

Sunday morning and evening- attend a local church service

Advertisements

Prinnie-Mack in Warner Robins is a great little coffee/sandwhich/wifi/local artist shop but now its even better because an artist we all know and love has her art there.
The Joshua Cup Coffee aside from a great cup of coffee in any flavor you can imagine also has sandwiches, wifi, downtown in walking distance Macon (next to the library) and laid back atmosphere. Hours are 6:30 am to 10:30 pm and closed on Sunday. I just love it there.

http://www.onenewsnow.com/Culture/Default.aspx?id=379832

This one hurts, I love Mountain Dew, but I will do what is right

Fun Links

This is three links to good poeple with fun activities right here in the area. I should have put them up a long time ago.

Dance Studio
http://www.gregorywest.com/

Scapbooking
https://lmosely.myctmh.com/

Hiking/kayaking
http://www.georgiawildernesssociety.org/events.html

More Fun Links

ChristianHappenings.com
Funhikes.com
Canoeing and kayaking newsletter
Ocmulgee Archeological Society
Truett-McConnell College newsletter
Macon Arts

And January
Singles

2009 will be as good as you make it!

God is still in the business of doing miracles and saving souls. We should be too!

That said,

I’m taking a sabbatical from writing on this site. I’ll maintain the calendar and prayer requests.

I need a spiritual vacation. I’m afraid I fell off the obedience wagon so much this year that I may have broke something. So I’m taking a sabbatical, leave of absence to refresh and renew my spirit, to make sure God is the north on my compass.

Take care

And

I’ll see ya around.


This is funny and I got it from church!!!!!
They will begin new life groups soon at Harvest in Warner Robins.
check out www.harvestchurch4u.org for more info
This is Mark Gungor at http://www.laughyourway.com/video-library/ with laugh your way to a better marriage seminars.

January 20, 09
Wanted to update you, let you know what I’m doing. Mainly cause I had a great morning and wanted to share.

OK ya’ll might and might not know I’m a little churchless right now.

I did / still do belong to Central. That’s a good church, good people. If you got young kids it can’t be beat. Central is all about the family and helping you raise your children. I really love those people.

You probably also know that I went to Southside for a while. That’s a good church, good pastor and good group of people. My x husband attends with his son and my mother in law also goes there. That right there tells you it’s a good church. They have a dynamite women’s group that meets at 10:30 on Sunday mornings. They also have Celebrate Recovery and the pastor for that is worth going to listen to even if you don’t have problems. He preaches at 7 on Thursday nights.

Then I went to Second for a little bit. A good friend of mine recommended it and she was absolutely correct. This is another good church and good group of people. The pastor is on fire for the Lord, he tells it very, very straight. If nothing else you gotta go hear this man speak. He is on FIRE. They also have a single adult Sunday school class that is rock steady and growing!! They meet at 9 am on Sunday mornings.

Now … well let me tell you how this happened. First I laid out a couple Sundays’ and went walking in the woods, there now I’ve confessed. Well last week I’m out in the woods and I text my daughter, “come walk with me”.

“I’m at church” she texts back.

“u r where???” I text back

“don’t be ugly” she texts back

“u r at church?” I text

Then she refused to answer.

Later she tells me that she was at Harvest and how cool it is and how everyone wears jeans and they play country music and it’s a husband and wife team who preach and how her friend took her and they have coffee and it looks really cool inside.

Now I’ve heard of Harvest from friends and even attended once upon a time. So this morning I head to Harvest.
I was blessed.
I got to sit with me daughter, her husband and her friend
and the sermon was actually something that had been on my heart. I enjoyed myself at church. How often do you get to say that or even hear that!

So where ever you are on your spiritual journey I hope you’re enjoying yourself. God didn’t make us to be grumpy old single people.

The Book….

It’s a good book and a quick read. I highly recommend it.

Common Mistakes Singles Make (And How to Avoid Them) by Mary S Whelchel

Prayer Requests 

• Our nation’s financial crises
• Our nation’s spiritual crises
• Our nation’s safety
• Each other, as we face our own spiritual battle

Conservative News Sites

·         http://www.onenewsnow.com/

·         http://pajamasmedia.com/

·         http://michellemalkin.com/

Calendar

• Jan. 9, @ 7:30, Rec. Night First Baptist Centerville
• Jan. 11, @ 6:00, Dixie Echoes, Cornerstone Baptist on Hartley Bridge
• Jan. 11, @ 8:00, Dinner at O’Charlie’s on Watson
• Jan. 17, @ 6:00, Dinner and a Movie; McAlisters on Zebulon
• Jan. 18, @ 7:00, Logan's on Waton
  
• Jan. 20, @ 6:00, Friday Night Live, Southside Baptist
  Feb. 1, @ 6:00; Superbowl Party @ Nita's house in Warner Robins, for directions email singleweaver@yahoo.com
  Feb. 1, @ 6:00, Superbowl Party @ Mike Boone's House in Macon for directions email singleweaver@yahoo.com
  Feb. 6, REC Night @ First Baptist Centerville
  Feb. 12, Valentine's Dance in Macon
  Feb. 14, HAPPY VALENTINES DAY
  Feb. 20, @ 6:00, Friday Night Live, Southside Baptist
   

Weekly Habits

Monday nights- Sonny's Bar B Q in Warner Robins at 6 pm then tennis behind the sheriff's office

Monday nights- Eagles Springs clubhouse line dance lessons at 7 pm (novice level)

Wednesday nights- attend a local church service

Thursday nights- Bibb Skate Arena on hwy 257 at 7 pm

Thursday nights- Line dance lessons (slighlty more advanced) American Legion in Warner Robins, Watson Blvd at 7:30 pm, heads up they sell alcoholic beverages

Sunday morning and evening- attend a local church service

Advertisements

The Joshua Cup Coffee aside from a great cup of coffee in any flavor you can imagine also has sandwiches, wifi, downtown in walking distance Macon (next to the library) and laid back atmosphere. Hours are 6:30 am to 10:30 pm and closed on Sunday. I just love it there.

Thursday and Friday Nights- Jazz @ Chef Aubrey's Bistro in Warner Robins in the Wall-Mart Plaza from 6:30-8:30.

Fun Links
ChristianHappenings.com
Funhikes.com
Canoeing and kayaking newsletter
Ocmulgee Archeological Society
Truett-McConnell College newsletter
Macon Arts

I’m picking up my tree today and decorating tonight, wahooo. I’ve picked out the colors for this year. I’ll decorate it in red, green and gold. Dood doesn’t like it but he never does. He goes all southern living and wants to decorate the tree in all gold or all silver or all white. Oh I just got an idea; next time it’s my turn to pick the tree colors I’m doing it in all white angels. I’ll have to start collecting them now. Cool!

Hope ya’ll have a great holiday season. Hope to see you at something.

Happy November

Turkey Month

Singles

Ok we all know that I am a co-dependent who suffers from serious depression

I have a couple things I do to help me cope

Other than prayer and scripture without which I would not be here today

I write

I have my art

And I take very long walks in the woods

So I’m out in the woods this morning

After having written in my journal how “I’ve given up on finding joy”

I’ve taken my small sketch pad with me

And already I’ve sketched the dirt road that runs through the field of waste high dead grass

And I’d tell you how it gave me joy but I’m still in denial at this point

So I sit myself down on the muddy bank to watch the sun sparkle on the surface of the river

When a couple fat wild turkeys fly across the water to the other side

I am delighted

I walk deeper into the woods

And find the place where the turkeys launched themselves into the air

I sit down on the ground beside their scratches in the dirt

Again I take out my pad and pen

I allow my pen to meander a course over the paper that is similar to the exposed roots of a tree next to me

Peace is beginning to take hold

Farther in the woods I decide to walk

Down a trail through the dried up creek beds of the wetland

In the wet season the hill I am standing on is an island

Again I am delighted

Leaves fall all round me like confetti

As I gaze on two of my favorite old trees in these woods

An old oak and an old cypress

They stand at the edge of the hill

In the wet season they are in water up to seven feet deep

Today they stand exposed and beautiful

One whose base looks like the skirt of a flowing ball gown and was made for water

The other all knobby and lumpy has spread out in an endearing imitation

I am enthralled by the pair

Suddenly

My phone rings

An amazing feet in itself as I had been fussed at the previous day by more than one person due to its being dead

And now here I am surely out of range, listening to it ring

I answer and talk and end the conversation

My seat at one of the round tables being decided for the Ladies Christmas Dinner at church next Monday

I stand in awe as I look around at my wilderness setting and wonder how a call could get through

I am stuck with only one answer

It was God

Only he could get a call through out here on a dead phone

Only he would know that the deepest places of my heart cry out for friendship with good Christian women

As I lean back against a fallen tree to wallow in my amazement

A fat grey deer stomps past me through the leaf liter

And I am completely enraptured with joy

I pull out my pad to sketch the two trees

Smiling in the knowledge that all things are possible through God

Whom I am so glad loves me enough to show me joy

My Thanksgiving wish for you
is that God brings you joy

Update

This is neat . Check it out. Thescripturetree.com

This is just too cute to miss


Update
Hey, me again, listen there’s a radio station that I listen to on my way home from work. It’s Christian, local and plays pretty good music but that’s not why I listen. There’s a talk radio segment in the afternoons called Intentional Living. It’s Biblically based and … I just like listening to it. The guy has sound scripturally based advice and delivers it on the air. It’s 93.1 FM Family Life Radio. http://www.myflr.org Listen live!

So I check out the website today and there’s all kind of good stuff on the website too. I recommend it and if I find that I’m wrong I’ll tell you that too. I will probably write more ont eh subject but for now check it out. http://www.theintentionallife.com/

Here's another extra. I had the best time the other day playing in the kitchen. I mixed butter and brown sugar in the microwave and let it candy. Man, that was good stuff. I'm currently shelling pecans to throw into it next time. It should make either brittle or carmal I'm not sure which. Anyway, someone sent me this site filled with great recipes. http://www.northpole.com/Kitchen/Cookbook/
Enjoy!!!!

Northside High is kicking tail. Go Eagles! State champions third year in a row. We’re gonna make it happen.

I’m sorry I didn’t get this site updated sooner.

It has been a crazy couple weeks for our nation hasn’t it? I am talking about the election of our new president. I was at a church just this week where they have begun studying end time prophesies.  People are everything from overjoyed to scared to death. I don’t think I need to explain that.

I will tell this story again to clarify my take on the situation. One of my students who has a good grasp on reality and current events looked at me with wide eyes and asked, “Ms. Brenda, are we gonna be OK?” I got close, took her hands in mine and said very sincerely, “I believe that if we are doing what God wants us to do then he will take care of us no matter what happens. Do you think we are doing what God would have us do?” She thought about it a minute and said, “Yes” then smiled real big. If wisdom comes from the lips of children then surely understanding is born in their hearts. (That’s from me BTW)

Am I worried? I’m trying not to be. I’m trying to have faith in God to keep me safe, to keep our nation out of harms way. I’d be thrilled to find that good things are in store for our country and all we need is faith in God to see it happen. Whatever happens I know God is in control and that gives me great comfort.

On the subject of relationships, allow me to be personal for a moment. (I know when am I not personal!) So this week I’ve been bummed cause like I’m busting tail to be “a good Christian woman” and all I can think is “man this is boring and lonely, seriously what’s the point!” So here I am all full of self pity and resentment and guess what! Guess who I saw in church this morning……????

My X!

I know its cold outside but I didn’t think it was cold enough for hell to freeze over. Sorry but you had to know I was gonna get that in somehow.

So, what does that have to do with my self pity and resentment? Not a durn thing (Can I say that on a Christian website?) I needed to stop focusing on myself and my worldly problems. There are bigger things at stake here than me not getting a date. There are souls unsaved, people unchurched, still looking but not having found God yet.

Perspective! This is my biggest problem. I got to stop thinking about me and think about other people, see them through God's eyes. Like the new song by Brandon Heath (Have I already made you listen to this?) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTsYAZvHsEQ&feature=PlayList&p=182FBCB569060ED2&index=12

Back to the book:

The next chapter in the book …

Common Mistakes Singles Make (And How to Avoid Them) by Mary S Whelchel

I’ll put in later…..

Prayer Requests 

·         Our nation

·         My students get very lonely during the holiday season

·         Me, you can always pray for me, if you’re bored, I want money, good health, peace, wisdom, good friends, etc.

·         Our nation’s financial crises

·         Our nation’s spiritual crises

·         Our nation’s safety

Calendar

• Nov 4, GO VOTE
• Nov 8, Margaritas restaurant then Amstar theatre
• Nov 9, concert at Cornerstone Bapt. then Mexican restaurant afterwards
• Nov 13, Bible study at 7 pm at Vineville North
• Nov 14, REC NIGHT Centerville First Bapt.
• Nov 16, Supper @ Logan’s on Watson @7:30
• Nov 20, Singles Dance Macon 7 pm
• Nov 22, Dinner and a Movie in Macon @ McAllister’s then Amstar
• Nov 23, Supper @ O’Charlies on Watson at 6:3
  Nov 27, HAPPY THANKSGIVING
  Nov 30, Go to church
  Nov 30, 6:30 Logans dinner with Randy and gang
  Dec 5, 6 pm, Southside Singles Event
  Dec 6, 6:30 pm Singing Christmas Tree, meet behind library if you want to sit with group
  Dec 7, 6 pm, First Baptist of Warner Robins Christmas play
  Dec 13, 6 pm, Southside Christmas Music Production
  Dec 19, 20, 21, Walk through Bethlehem 

Weekly Habits

Monday nights- Sonny's Bar B Q in Warner Robins at 6 pm then tennis behind the sheriff's office

Monday nights- Eagles Springs clubhouse line dance lessons at 7 pm (novice level)

Wednsday nights- attend a local church service

Thursday nights- Bibb Skate Arena on hwy 257 at 7 pm

Thursday nights- Line dance lessons (slighlty more advanced) American Legion in Warner Robins, Watson Blvd at 7:30 pm, heads up they sell alcoholic beverages

Sunday morning and evening- attend a local church service

Advertisement

The Joshua Cup Coffee aside from a great cup of coffee in any flavor you can imagine also has sandwiches, wifi, downtown in walking distance Macon (next to the library) and laid back atmosphere. Hours are 6:30 am to 10:30 pm and closed on Sunday. I just love it there.

Thursday and Friday Nights- Jazz @ Chef Aubrey's Bistro in Warner Robins in the Wall-Mart Plaza from 6:30-8:30.

Links
ChristianHappenings.com
Funhikes.com
Canoeing and kayaking newsletter
Ocmulgee Archeological Society
Truett-McConnell College newsletter
Macon Arts

Happy October
Singles

ANOTHER UPDATE

Do you know what the best part of my weekday is

Its 9 am

At 9 am I lead my students in the pledge and prayer

After I’ve thanked God for his many blessings and asked him to look over and guide us all my students get to pray also

It doesn’t sound like much

But some of these kids had never heard of God

Some of them had never prayed before                      

Some of them were scared to pray out loud

Now they all pray to him

Out loud

In class

And I get to hear their prayers

Man, you can beat that with a stick

Nothing makes me happy like that does

What an awesome way the Lord has blessed me with to start my day

I pray God blesses you with an awesome start to your day too

UPDATE
Today I was taught a lesson on being careful about what I hear and what I say.
This morning, as most mornings, the teachers were hanging out in the hall talking before the kids arrived. One of my students had annoyed another teacher the day before and she was determined to make sure I understood the depth of her aggravation. Just as she was finishing up her story in walks all the students. The particular she had been talking about came in happy, loud and bragging. My ears still ringing with the tales of his earlier disrespect I lit into him. He was stunned and did not take it well. So I lit into him again. Bless his heart I fairly decapitated the boy before I got a hold of myself. I apologized for my lack of tack and explained what he had done to warrant my outburst. I said next time I won’t yell, cause that was wrong I’ll just take points. He smiled and said, “I’d rather be yelled at.”
On the way home from work I was listening to radio talk. A woman had called in to talk about her two children. One had Down syndrome and the other was an average child. She explained how she realized that she had been so caught up in praising her Down syndrome child that she had forgot to praise her average child. Another woman called with a similar story of her son misinterpreting her prayer request of “a new baby” and believing she wanted to replace him. The radio announcer quoted Proverbs 25:11 “A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” I was thinking of Proverbs 4:23 “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” And Ecclesiastes 10:12 “Words from a wise man's mouth are gracious, but a fool is consumed by his own lips.”
It got me thinking that we/I need to be extra careful about what I say around children, that if I, as an adult, can be influenced or moved emotionally by what I hear then how much more tender are the feelings of my children to what they hear especially from the adults in their lives who are so important to them.
A song played on the radio “be careful little ears what you hear”. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGHILmOHptY

Its high school football time and Northside High in Warner Robins is kicking tail. Go Eagles!

I heard another new song on the radio. I wasn’t that thrilled with the song but it had a line or two that impressed me. It said, “tell your story”. Ya’ll remember our old Sunday School teacher Ray? He used to say, “If you don’t know scripture just tell your story. No one can argue with you cause it’s your personal story of salvation.” So I’m telling my story, though I think I’ve told it before. If you haven’t read it take a peak then go get ready to tell your story how God has worked a miracle in you. my testimony

Do ya’ll notice that ya’ll are never what’s ‘frontal lobe’ for me, that I’m always too busy to get this out on time or correctly? Its not that ya’ll are unimportant, I think that’s just the way it is when you’re a single parent.

This is my whine for the day and ya’ll can all join me.

As a single parent you have so much to do. To your children you are both parents, both good cop and bad cop, both generous and thrifty, both friend and boss. All the burden of responsibility is laid on your shoulders and you feel every drop of it, at least I always did. I always said the only thing good about my x-husband, bless his heart, was that I could at least blame him when things went wrong. (just being real) Everything fun or even slightly enjoyable becomes a guilty pleasure that can’t be afforded when you’re a single parent.  

I have to admit that being a single parent really forced me to understand why God made parents plural not singular. It takes two to make them, it takes two to raise them. I fully admit that I have two of the finest children on God’s green earth BUT they would be even finer if they had had a good father figure while growing up and that’s the truth.

Speaking of father figures, how you fellas doing? I’ll bet you’re chomping at the bit to know what the next chapter in the book has to say about single men and relationships.

Back to the book:

The next chapter in the book is for single men.

Common Mistakes Singles Make (And How to Avoid Them) by Mary S Whelchel

Chapter two is about the mistakes that single men make concerning their relationships with women.

Lists of mistakes:

·         Men are too visually oriented and don’t give themselves a chance to know a woman who doesn’t meet their visual ideal. (I know that’s right, preach it sister!)

·         Men have difficulty expressing their feelings and are afraid of loosing their ‘manly’ image by showing too much emotion. (I’m not saying a thing but if I did….!)

·         Men are frightened of a life time commitment. (I think she knows some of ya’ll personally.)

·         Sorry fellas, I couldn’t restrain myself, honest I tried.

A few questions from the end of the chapter: (OK fellas, try to be honest here, this is for your own good.)

·         When was the last time you cried?

·         Were you embarrassed by your tears?

·         What emotion is easiest for you to express?

·         What would help you to be more open and talking about your feelings?

·         Honest, these are the questions, I’m not making them up.

·         One real question; can you think of a single woman you know who is fun to be with, interesting, intelligent and/or admirable (not not me) but you have dismissed any possibility of a relationship because she doesn’t look the way you like a woman to look? (well go get her ya fool, just kidding, no really go get her)

My take on this chapter

Bahahahahaha, do you really want to go there! That was fun.

Prayer Requests 

• Tim Godfrey in the death of his father
  My students, past and present, many are going on to other places and need prayer.
• Some of you continue to need prayer for various circumstances
• Our Nation’s financial problems
• Our Nation’s spiritual problems
• The upcoming presidential election, pray I don’t find out if you aren’t planning to vote!

Calendar

• Sept. 27, Singles Conference, 6 pm covered Dish 7 pm conference ‘Single Again and Wiser this Time’ Cornerstone Bapt.
• Sept. 28 Sunday Randy’s crew 6 pm O'Charlies
• Oct. 3 REC  Night 7 pm at First Baptist of Centerville
• Oct 4 - Perry Fair
• Oct 4 Perry fair meet Randy at 3:30 at clock tower
• Oct. 5 - 8, Sunday night First Baptist of Wa. Ro, 6 pm REVIVAL
• Oct 5, Sunday night 8 pm, Logan's for Supper with Randy’s crew
• Oct. 6 Warner Robins Community Aglow, 6:30 - 8:30 Houston Health Pavilion, Houston Mall entrance
  Oct. 8, Aglow International of Warner Robins, Christ CFhapel 10:30 am
  Oct. 11, Macon Aglow, Pilot International Building 9:30 - 12:30
  Oct. 11, Saturday at 9 am Ocmulgee River cleanup event, contact
  Oct 18, 19, 25, 26, Judgemnt House Byron Baptist, $2.00, 5 pm - 8 or 9 pm 
  Oct 24th Southside Baptist Singles Event @ 6:30pm
  Oct 25th, Shakey's Pizza live music @ 6pm
  Oct 26th Sun day night dinner at Olive Garden in Warner Robins @7:30pm
  Fall Festivals:
  Oct 25
  Christ United Methodist on Russel Pkwy
  Sacred Heart Catholic Church
  The Rain Church on Gunn Rd in Warner Robins
  First United Methodist in Warner Robins
  Unity Baptist Church in Bonaire
  Oct 26
  Cross Point Baptist Church Perry
  Oct 28
  Southisde Baptist Church in Warner Robins
  Oct 31
  Refuge Church on Todd rd
  First Baptist Church in Warner Robins
  Oct 30, IN-Step with Singles, food fun fellowship, support Operation Christmas Child
  Oct 31, Northside vs. Warner Robins highschool football game
  Nov 4, GO VOTE
  Nov 8, Marguittas restaraunt then Amstar theatre
  Nov 9, concert at Cornerstone Bapt then mexican restaraunt afterwards
  Nov 13, Bible study at 7 pm at Vineville North
  Nov 14, REC NIGHT Centervile First Bapt
  Nov 20, Singles Dance Macon 7pm
  

Weekly Habits

Monday nights- Sonny's Bar B Q in Warner Robins at 6 pm then tennis behind the sheriff's office

Monday nights- Eagles Springs clubhouse line dance lessons at 7 pm (novice level)

Wednsday nights- attend a local church service

Thursday nights- Bibb Skate Arena on hwy 257 at 7 pm

Thursday nights- Line dance lessons (slighlty more advanced) American Legion in Warner Robins, Watson Blvd at 7:30 pm, heads up they sell alcoholic beverages

Sunday morning and evening- attend a local church service

Advertisement

The Joshua Cup Coffee aside from a great cup of coffee in any flavor you can imagine also has sandwiches, wifi, downtown in walking distance Macon (next to the library) and laid back atmosphere. Hours are 6:30 am to 10:30 pm and closed on Sunday. I just love it there.

Thursday and Friday Nights- Jazz @ Chef Aubrey's Bistro in Warner Robins in the Wall-Mart Plaza from 6:30-8:30.

Boycott is ended
Go to McDonalds and eat french fries in celebration.

Links
ChristianHappenings.com
Funhikes.com
Canoeing and kayaking newsletter
Ocmulgee Archeological Society
Truett-McConnell College newsletter
Macon Arts

Well once again ya’ll are not frontal lobe material. Some of you are aware that I have been living in my parent’s house for the last three and a half years. I had a financial situation then my dad got cancer. It was a good solution for all of us. Dad is now cancer free and I am financially … well I’m better than I was.

It wasn’t easy going back and living under my parent’s roof as an adult. I’d say that they were gracious and we were sensitive but the truth is God blessed us with a peace and harmony that without him would not have existed.

If you know me pretty well then you may know that I’ve been sick this past several weeks. I missed a lot including an awesome concert at Southside, Freedom Fest, but I wouldn’t have been able to sing and scream and run up to the stage so I saw no point in going. If you didn’t make it either then you gotta go next year. It really is a great concert and it’s free.

While I’ve taken the last several weeks off from life to get well but Satan didn’t take that time off. He’s been working hard in our lives. So many of us are in the middle of tragedy, on the brink of falling, caught in a whirl wind of temptation.

“I can’t make my car payment.”

“My child is doing drugs.”

“I can’t find a job. I have no money left.”

“I’m so afraid.”

“I’m having sex with the person I’m dating.”

“I’ve lost someone I love.”

“I don’t know what to do.”

“I’m ashamed to show my face in my own church.”
“I’m so beat down from all this I can’t take anymore.”
Hey I’m not casting stones. Been there, done that! I know Satan attacks you with the very thing that hurts you or tempts you the most. He’s a creep but a smart creep.

HEY, you are not alone! Do you know what that means? It means that not only are you not the only one who has gone through this same trial but literally, you are not alone. God is with you. He is with you always even to the ends of the earth and the end of the earth.

We are with you too. While we, your fellow Christians, don’t stand up and shout out the trials we’ve been through we have been through them. You aren’t the only one who falls, is tempted, is wounded, is torn, is bleeding or can see no other way out. If you think so give me an email I’ll curl your toenails with tales of my own tribulations.

There is a song that I love. It has s simple message. It says, “We fall down but we get up, for a saint is just a sinner who fell down and got up.” It gives me hope. God knows I need it.

We Fall Down

Sometimes as much as I know God is real and with me and cares for me as well and takes care of me… sometimes I need flesh and bones. Sometimes I need to hear another person, see another person, talk to another person or get a hug from another person. We all do. This is why God tells us to be part of the body of Christ, part of a church, so that together we can be healed and grow closer to each other and grow closer to God. Someone helps you. You help someone. (I love my church. I wouldn’t take nothing for Central.)

God is with you, always.

If you are not in the middle of tribulations then pray for the rest of us because we need it.

Back to the book:

The next chapter in the book is for single women, sorry guys. Ya’ll get the next chapter.

Common Mistakes Singles Make (And How to Avoid Them) by Mary S Whelchel

Chapter two is about the mistakes that single women make concerning their relationships with men.

Lists of mistakes:

·         We panic over the scarcity of Christian single men.

·         We think and talk too much about men.

·         We run on our emotions too often.

·         We’re reluctant to share our opinions or ideas with men.

·         We tend to be too open, too vulnerable, too transparent.

A few questions from the end of the chapter:

·         How often do you check out the ring finger of a man as soon as you meet him? I do it every single time. It’s a habit!

·         Ever made a decision concerning a man based on emotions and suffer the consequences?

·         Can you think of a setting where you are intimidated by the presence of men?

·         Are you more open and vulnerable with men than they are with you?

·         How can we be more conservative and less transparent and still be honest? If you know this answer tell me, please.

My take on this chapter

Sorry I have no opinion on this chapter. I think I lost brain cells while blowing my nose.

Prayer Requests 

• The state of Texas and the entire Gulf coast
• Each other
• Me, duh, I’m sick of being sick
• A few of the children at the Orphanage in Unganda have come down with measles, pray it doesn’t spread
• The upcoming presidential election, pray I don’t find out if you aren’t planning to vote

Calendar

·         Sept. 5, Rec. Night @ 7:30 @ First Bapt. of Centerville

·         Sept. 5, my daughter Sarah’s birthday

·         Sept. 6, FREEDOM FEST, some folks are meeting for lunch at Firehouse Subs on Watson and heading over

·         Sept. 6, Singles Conference At Cornerstone Bapt.." Single Again and Wiser This Time" Covered dish at 6pm, session begins at 7pm, cost is $15

·         Sept. 7, @ Nancy Green's Fundraiser for Alzheimer’s

·         Sept. 13, Singles Conference At Cornerstone Bapt.." Single Again and Wiser This Time" Covered dish at 6pm, session begins at 7pm, cost is $15

·         Sept. 14, Rand’s crew at Logan’s at 7:30 after church

·         Sept. 19, Game Night at Greg and Dawn’s

·         Sept. 20, Singles Conference At Cornerstone Bapt.." Single Again and Wiser This Time" Covered dish at 6pm, session begins at 7pm, cost is $15

·         Sept. 21, Concert, Toby Siler and New Life at 6 pm at Cornerstone, then Mexican Restaurant at 8 pm

·         Sept. 27, Singles Conference At Cornerstone Bapt.." Single Again and Wiser This Time" Covered dish at 6pm, session begins at 7pm, cost is $15

Weekly Habits

Monday nights- Sonny's Bar B Q in Warner Robins at 6 pm then tennis behind the sheriff's office

Monday nights- Eagles Springs clubhouse line dance lessons at 7 pm (novice level)

Wednsday nights- attend a local church service

Thursday nights- Bibb Skate Arena on hwy 257 at 7 pm

Thursday nights- Line dance lessons (slighlty more advanced) American Legion in Warner Robins, Watson Blvd at 7:30 pm, heads up they sell alcoholic beverages

Sunday morning and evening- attend a local church service

Advertisement

Thursday and Friday Nights- Jazz @ Chef Aubrey's Bistro in Warner Robins in the Wall-Mart Plaza from 6:30-8:30.


Boycott

McDonalds is just … making a stand that threatens the Biblical definition of marriage.
Links
ChristianHappenings.com
Funhikes.com
Canoeing and kayaking newsletter
Ocmulgee Archeological Society
Truett-McConnell College newsletter
Macon Arts

Check this out, Godtube.com

Once again I dropped the ball and this site came out after the first of the month. Have pity on me, I've been putting my classroom together. Therefore this will be a brief site. I'll attempt to update during the month so check back occasionally, but no promises. Right now I'm all about all things classroom and children, ya'll are not frontal lobe material, sorry.

Back to the book:

Common Mistakes Singles Make (And How to Avoid Them) by Mary S Whelchel

Chapter two is about "mistakes relating to the opposite sex".
 

First, the word relating means talking to, connecting with, communicating with not mistake the opposite e sex has. Sorry, that threw me for a minute cause ou know I'm all about "men can be a pain". Anyway, this chapter probably has some of the most useful information in it, though seriously it isn't anything we don't know. Its stuff we don't want to admit or agree to. I know I've made enough mistakes in my life to warrant a second look into this chapter and probably a third, fourth nad fifth. By the way, some ladies are wanting to get together and discuss the book. So let's do it. I'll set a date and put it on the calendar.

Lists of mistakes:

1. We misinterpret the attentions of the opposite sex.
2. We put up with too much in a relation ship and hang on too long. Can I get an Amen????
3. We're not always very good at reading danger signals in a relationship.
4. We get physically involved much too soon and go too far. Oh yeah, I know that's right!
5. We think that the only necessary requirement fro a date or mate is that he or she is a Christian.
6. We carry our list of requirements with us and judge others to quickly or selfishly.
7. We think that anything is better than being alone.
   

A few questions from the end of the chapter:

I really liked several of these questions. They are thought provoking. Here's a few juicy ones.

• What would cause a single person to misinterpret the attentions from a person of the opposite sex? What would that reveal that person?
• If a person puts up with poor treatment in a relationship who is at fault?
• Why is it difficult for a person in love to see danger signals that are obvious to others?
• Since the Bible is clear that sex outside of marriage is a sin, does that mean that Christians can be physically involved as long as they don't go all the way?
• Why is it true that simply sharing faith in Jesus Christ is not enough compatibility on which to base a relationship or marriage?
• What do you have on your list of requirements for the man or woman you are hoping to marry?

My take on this chapter

  Well, I couldn't help but remember a certain Bible study where they said it was good to have a long list of requirements, but they could have been thinking of the person in the room who said, "as long as I get my space".

To me this chapter touched very lightly on a lot of topics that could have been dealt with deeper like, self-esteem, boundaries, taking responsibility for your actions and honesty. Maybe that's the next book I'll read.

Extras

• you send ‘em I'll post ‘em!
• UPDATE here's an extra; we had a great time at rec night, there was a couple fellas who really got into their game, must be engineers...

• UPDATE the new Singles Sunday school teacher at Central rocks!
• ANOTHER UPDATE the book discussion was good, just ladies so we could really talk, we'll do it again on the fourth Tuesday of this month, we'll discuss ch. 2, its all about sex!

Announcements

• No more weddings, so some of us will need to find our free meals some where else

Prayer Requests 

• All children, parents, teachers and school workers as school starts back up
• Tina Merrit and her children
• The last poor fella who dated me
• Robert McCulla, the new singles Sunday School Teacher at Central
• Everyone who just got married, they need our prayers and support
• Each other, its lonely being single

Calendar

• Aug. 1, oops!
• Aug. 4, school starts in Houston County
• Aug. 4, Archeology Meeting at Mercer, great speaker, at 6:30
• Aug. 7, school starts in Bibb County
• Aug. 8, Back to School event at Museum of Aviation from 6 pm to 11 pm
• Aug. 8, REC Night First Baptist Centerville
• Aug 9, Macon Aglow International, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm, Macon Pilot Club
• Aug. 10, New Singles Sunday School Teacher at Central, 10:30 am
• Aug. 10, Special Singles SS Class at Cornerstone
• Aug. 10, Sunday Night Crew will be at Buffalos on Watson at 7:30
• Aug. 8 - 10, McRaes in Concert at Cornerstone on Hartley Bridge Rd. 6 pm Mexican restaurant after
• Aug. 14, Macon Bible Talk 7 pm Vineville North on Zebullon
• Aug. 12, Atlanta Bread Company at 7 pm in Warner Robins to discuss the book Common Mistakes Singles Make (And How to Avoid Them)
• Aug. 16, Family bowling at 6 pm Ruby Tuesdays to follow.
• Aug. 16, GA Wilderness Society meeting and picnic @ Dames Ferry Campground on Lake Juliette for a pot luck supper, trip planning session, and evening swim contact Jim Workman
• Aug. 17, Sunday Night Crew will beat Logans on Watson at 7:30
• Aug. 21, Macon Singles Dance 7 pm http://www.instepsah.org/
• Aug 22, Scrapbooking @Central Baptist Church from 5:00 pm till 9 or 10
• Aug. 23, KARAOKE at Cornerstone at 7 pm
• Aug 24, Ladies Friendship Coffee from 4:00-6:30 @ Central Baptist in Warner Robins
• Aug. 26, Atlanta Bread Company at 7 pm in Warner Robins to discuss the book Common Mistakes Singles Make (And How to Avoid Them) 
  

  Chapter two in the book deals with sex outside of marriage, which is a major no no and a major temptation simultaneously. I am, presumably speaking to those single-again folks who have tasted the nectar of sexual activity and are now dealing with the pains of going without it due to their non-married status.

  It’s hard. I fully admit it. Sex is great. I’d be lying and so would you if we said different.

  I think of sex like potato chips. Weird but hear me out. Remember the old slogan for Lays potato chips? “You can’t eat just one.” Sex is the same way. You can’t stop yourself from eating more than one potato chip and sometimes the whole bag, which I’m sure Lays loved but your cholesterol doesn’t, at least most people can’t stop themselves. Trying to control sexual urges once they get stirred up can be the just the same.

  We all know what the Bible says about pre-marital sex and extra-marital sex. If you disagree, take it up with God!

  Continueing with the potato chip/ sex analogy. The problem with potato chips is that they go so well with so many other foods. Also there are so many places, restaurants that give away potato chips with every meal. You don’t want to have to give up everything you like just to avoid potato chips. Do you? Consider what are some things that you see and do or places you go or people you know that remind you of sex or sexual activities? Do you want to avoid them?

  The question shouldn’t be do you want to avoid them. The question should be do you need to avoid them. If you can’t control the memory/urge that they conjure then yea! You need to drop ‘em like a ton of bricks, pronto!

  Then there are those poor souls who are in a relationship, bless their hearts! (OK that was funny, I’ve been in one so I can say that) If you’re not in a relationship with anyone then the temptation is less because the availability is less. If you are dating/seeing/whatever someone then you got a lot of temptation to deal with.  What are you gonna do, buy a bag of chips then never open the bag? If you open the bag are you gonna eat only one? Will you eat the whole bag? If you only eat half the bag is that OK? Is it alright to do some sexual acts but not others? What if you plan to marry the person? What if you’re thinking about marrying the person at some point in the future? Where is the line? What if you go past the line sometimes but not all the time? Be honest with yourself if with no one else. What is your line and is it God’s line?

  Now, what will you do with the knowledge you just gained about yourself and how temptation affects you?

  Something?

  Anything?

  Nothing? 

  Want to discuss it further? Read the book or at least chapter two of Common Mistakes Singles Make and How to Avoid Them by Mary Whelchel and meet with us at 7 at Atlanta Bread Co on the fourth Tuesday.
• Aug. 30, Dinner and a movie @ 6pm @ Buffalos on Zedulon
  
  Aug. 31, Randy's Group 7:30 @ Longhorn on Watson
  
  Sept.5,Rec Night @ 7:30 @ First Bapt of Centerville
  
  Sept. 6, FREEDOM FESTsome folks are meeting for lunch at Firehouse Subs on Watson and heading over
  
  Sept. 6, Singles Conference At Cornerstone Bapt.." Single Again and Wiser This Time" Covered dish at 6pm, session begins at 7pm, cost is $15
  
  Sept. 7, @ Nancy Green's Fundraiser for Alzheimers
  
  

  Sept.13, Singles Conference At Cornerstone Bapt.." Single Again and Wiser This Time" Covered dish at 6pm, session begins at 7pm, cost is $15
  
  

  Sept.20, Singles Conference At Cornerstone Bapt.." Single Again and Wiser This Time" Covered dish at 6pm, session begins at 7pm, cost is $15

  
  

  Sept.27, Singles Conference At Cornerstone Bapt.." Single Again and Wiser This Time" Covered dish at 6pm, session begins at 7pm, cost is $15

  
  

  
  

Weekly Habits

Monday nights- Sonny's Bar B Q in Warner Robins at 6 pm then tennis behind the sheriff's office

Monday nights- Eagles Springs clubhouse line dance lessons at 7 pm (novice level)

Wednsday nights- attend a local church service

Thursday nights- Bibb Skate Arena on hwy 257 at 7 pm

Thursday nights- Line dance lessons (slighlty more advanced) American Legion in Warner Robins, Watson Blvd at 7:30 pm, heads up they sell alcoholic beverages

Sunday morning and evening- attend a local church service

Thursday and Friday Nights- Jazz @ Chef Aubrey's Bistro in Warner Robins in the Wall-Mart Plaza from 6:30-8:30.

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Joshua Cup Coffee aside from a great cup of coffee in any flavor you can imagine also has sandwiches, wifi, downtown in walking distance Macon (next to the library) and laid back atmosphere. Hours are 6:30 am to 10:30 pm and closed on Sunday. I highly recommend it.

Boycott

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Along with a petition to sign!!

Links
ChristianHappenings.com
Funhikes.com
Canoeing and kayaking newsletter
Ocmulgee Archeological Society
Truett-McConnell College newsletter
Macon Arts

UPDATE: If you haven't heard, I passed my exams. Thank you for your prayers and concerns. I also had a good trip to Omaha. Thank you for your tips on trips and many prayers, really did the trick.
As a teacher on summer break I've been reading a lot and I just read a book that was so good that I think you should all read it. Since I know that won't happen, I plan to write about it one chapter each month till the book is done. Then it will be next summer and I'll have read something else.
The book is Common Mistakes Singles Make (And How to Avoid Them) by Mary S Whelchel. It costs $5.99 down at the Christian bookstore. It really changed my thinking in some areas and reinforced it in other areas. It is meant for singles who are Christian. If you're not a Christian then become one now. Accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior today. Then the book will make more since and be terribly helpful.

Chapter one is about our attitude.

It lists only two mistakes and they are;

1. We think marriage is the only normal lifestyle and that it will solve all our problems.

2. We become consumed by our desire to get married. The scriptures from this chapter are, of course, 1 Corinthians 7, Matthew 6:33.

A few lines I underlined:

Desire even a legitimate one can become an idol.

People in scripture who remained single; Jesus, Paul, Lazarus and his sisters, Mary, Martha, Lydia, Mary Magdalene and Dorcas.

Our society is built for twos.

God has not advocated one lifestyle- marriage- as the number one normal way to live.

There are dangers in letting yourself to think that marriage is the normal way of life.

People consumed with the desire to be married usually become less and less attractive.

Because I don't have someone to talk to all the time I talk to the Lord more often, turn to my wonderful counselor more readily.

A few questions from the end of the chapter:

Is it automatically true that unmarried Christians are "concerned about eh Lord's affairs" like Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 7:32-34?

If God created men and women to be married then why does he allow any of his children to be remain single?

If marriage is so great why is the divorce rate so high?

What from your single lifestyle would you miss if you were married?

What do you do to cope with the desire to be married?

My take on this chapter

A couple points that were really driven home for me, which I confess are more than slightly off topic for this chapter were;
·         Thinking marriage and a spouse can solve all your problems or make your life complete is asking too much of that person or that institution.
·         Whether or not you get married should be left in God's hands. Your attitude toward your situation is in your hands.
·         The whole idea of a life of singleness, never getting married, single forever and ever (scary or is it????).

I confess that I went back and forth in this chapter. One page I'm thinking of how this information could have solved problems in my past relationships and maybe could help in future ones. I know I have expected too much of fellas I've dated and I've certainly tried to find that perfect fella on my own, not asking God's opinion till after I'd looked them over. So I want to be married.

Then on the very next page I'm thinking, "Maybe I can trust God so much that I would take on a life of singleness." I've certainly considered this. We all have. I like being alone. I can pray more, study the word more, I have more time for those things that interest me like writing and I can to do all the crazy adventures that no one else wants to endure. So yes I've considered a life of singleness but then I get lonely for human contact and say "no way, not me".

It's a fork in the road for sure!

Or is it? Jesus said when we lose our lives, we find them. What on earth does that mean? It means that God won't take over and heal your broken life until you give up control of it to him. In Joel 2:12 God says, "return to me with all your heart". So, if you give your life to him, I mean really give it to him then and only then will he heal you / bless you.

What about Joel 2:25 and the years the locust took? To me this is those years of my life that were wasted in a marriage that was horrible and where everything was denied me. God says, in Joel 2:26, "You will have plenty to eat, until you are full". I know that God blessed us heavily after the divorce. He really took good care of me and the kids. 
Even more than that in Isaiah 61:3 it says, 

     "and provide for those who grieve...
       to bestow on them a crown of beauty
       instead of ashes,
       the oil of gladness
       instead of mourning,
       and a garment of praise
       instead of a spirit of despair."

You've got to read Isaiah 61. It will fire you up! God wants to take care of you.

Personally I'm ready. I want that, I want my soul to rejoice in my God because he has already clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness. (Paraphrase Isaiah 61:10)

Whether or not rich blessing for you or me includes marriage, only God knows and neither of us will ever know till we turn our will, our desires and our needs over to God.

I recommend that you read the book. At the very least you can tell me how I got it all wrong.

• UPDATE: Tami and Dana’s wedding rocked! Literally we danced and danced. Tami was, of course, beautiful.
• Hilliard and Wanda are happily married.
• My son, dood, just got his first job. He's working down at Firehouse Subs on Russell.
• UPDATE: Donna and Carl's wedding was beautiful. Donna was beautiful and Carl was very happy. I hope they have a long and blessed marriage.  

• All the folks who are about the get married or just did get married. Keep them in your prayers as they start a new adventure.
• Me, don't forget that I'm out of town next week, flying commercial, something I've never done before and far away and isolated from everyone I know for a whole week. Will it be a blessing or a nightmare?
• Angela, keep her and any other parent whose children are growing up and leaving the nest.
• Keep the children in your prayers too. We know what the worlds like but they don't listen to us. They'll have to learn some lessons on their own. Pray that they are kept safe by the Holy Spirit while they begin their own life.
• For one another, that we may see the tares among the wheat and not follow where the Lord would have us not go.
• For our churches, pastors, leaders and teachers that they may have the patience and courage to put up with all that is asked of them in the way that God would have them handle it.

Calendar

• July 3, Warner Robins Independence Day celebration and fireworks 

• July 4, HAPPY JULY THE FOURTH

• July 4, High Falls lake and state park Boat regatta and Independance Day celebreation 

• July 4, Fort Hawkins July the 4th celebration 

• July 4, fireworks at Lake Tobo 

• July 4, Old Time Independence day celebartion at jarrel Plantation

• July 5, Summer Redneck Games Dublin 

• July 11, Rec Night 7pm Centerville Baptist

• July 12, bicycling with the Georgia Wilderness Society

• July 12,dinner and a movie Margaritas on Zebulon at 5:45

• July 13, Logan's on Watson at 7:30pm 

• July 17, Dance in Macon at La Piada

• July 19, scrapbooking

• July 19, Tami and Dana's wedding

• July 24, Jeff and Sherri Easter Concert @ Cornerstone on Hartley Br Rd 7pm

• July 25, Singles Supper @ Applebees on Russell @ 7:30

• July 26, Donna and Carl's wedding

• July 26, Ocmulgee River Race, @ Macon Water Works @9am

• July 27, Ladies Friendship Coffee @Central Baptist from 4:30 to 6:00

• Aug. 16, GA Wilderness Society meeting and picnic @ Dames Ferry Campground on Lake Juliette for a pot luck supper, trip planning session, and evening swim contact Jim Workman

• Sept. 6, FREEDOM FEST

• Sept. 26-27, Women of Faith Conference Atlanta