Safe

This is what I want my son to know, deep down in the recesses of his soul!
We love you, "Hoss".



Verse:
To the one who's dreams are falling all apart
And all you're left with is a tired and broken heart
I can tell by your eyes you think your on your own
but you're not all alone

Have you heard of the One who can calm the raging seas
Give sight to the blind, pull the lame up to their feet
With a love so strong and never let you go
oh you're not alone

Chorus:
You will be safe in His arms
You will be safe in His arms
'Cause the hands that hold the world are holding your heart
This is the promise He made
He will be with You always
When everything is falling apart
You will be safe in His arms

Verse 2:
Did you know that the voice that brings the dead to life
Is the very same voice that calls you to rise
So hear Him now He's calling you home
You will never be alone

Bridge:
These are the hands that built the mountains
the hands that calm the seas

These are the arms that hold the heavens
they are holding you and me

These are hands that healed the leper
Pulled the lame up to their feet

These are the arms that were nailed to a cross
to break our chains and set us free

God's Continuous Reminders

Jeremiah 17:7-8 "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is the Lord. For he will be like a tree firmly planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green; and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit".

This verse the Lord gave me last fall as our family verse for this trial we find ourselves in.

As I went through out my day today, the Lord brought this verse to my remembrance in a book I am reading. As I was listening to a local radio station, the afternoon DJ read these verses and as I listened I thanked God for His tender mercies. This gift to me today was just like feeling my Savior's arms around me, reminding me He has heard our deep, gut-wrenching prayers and holds my precious one in His hands, as well.

We praise Him for answers in His time and for His glory.

Today is the 6 month mark of the separation. God is so good.

Dinner Done

I love food. That's what we are sharing on Talkin' about Thursday.

If you would have asked what my least favorite chore was five or so years ago, I would have confidently replied, "cooking".

But through my journey of the last 5 years, which included adopting our youngest, who had severe stomach issues, I have come to realize this a vital part of being a wise woman and mommy. So God has graciously increased my love to cooking. I have also learned to love the crockpot, since my day is full of many other tasks.


I had to search high and low for my favorite dinner recipe since cheesecake doesn't qualify.


Alas, I have found one that is always a hit. It is so easy and full of goodness for the soul and body. It is one of those lovely comfort foods.

Cowboy Casserole 1 onion, chopped1 1/2 lbs. ground chuck, browned and drained6 medium potatoes, sliced2 cups of red beans (I have used pinto; try to use dry beans. Soak over night and cook prior to using.)1 can tomatoes mixed with 2 tbsp. of floursalt, pepper and garlic to taste

Put chopped onion in bottom of crockpot; layer with browned meat, sliced potatoes, and beans. Spread tomatoes over all. Sprinkle with seasonings as desired. Cover and cook on low 7-9 hours. Note: You can add many more ingredients if you want. I have added fresh green beans or any other vegetable you want. I have also doubled the recipe.

Oh, dear. My mouth is watering....I guess I know what's for dinner!
Enjoy!!

My Biggest Little Lamb

Our oldest lamb has entered the fold.

The Ponderosa was told by "Hoss" on Saturday that he has made a commitment to follow Christ.

For those of you who have been praying for him, we say thank you. And we ask you to pray even more fervently now, as Satan will work even harder to pull him away.

Please pray that this seed is planted in the good soil, where its roots can go deep and be grounded in the truth of God's Word.

Please pray that the cares of this world will not come in and choke it.

Please pray that "Hoss" will grow and we will see the fruit of true repentance.

Please pray that our little lamb will not wander from the fold, but remain in the Shepherd's arms.

Please pray that spiritual healing will continue to take place in his life.

You can imagine this is the best news we could ask for.

My Beautiful Little Lambs

Attitude of Gratitude

Before you place your feet on the floor, give thanks to your magnificent Creator for all His blessings.

# 66 The Word that is a Light to my path and Lamp to my feet

#67 War of Words by Paul David Tripp
This has become part of our family worship time at night. All conflict begins with our words.

#68 Making a love gift for the place where my oldest treasure resides

#69 Truth; this is a lost concept in this tolerant society we live in

#70 Friends that help sharpen my iron

#71 Answering lots of questions during the day from all of my little people; anything from math to the most beloved question of "Why?" I don't always have the answers, but am so glad I'm the one being asked

#72 The burning of candles; what a cozy and warm place an abode can become

#73 Busy hands that work diligently to finish a love gift

#74 Celebrating birthdays; each year is one more blessing of God's goodness

Strawberry Passion Organics

We had the privilege of going to an organic farm this weekend. We met up with our good friends and had a lovely time. We picked strawberries, chard, kale, spinach, and lettuce.

Needless to say, we will be enjoying lots of greens this week in our meals.






"Inger" and her favorite little man.












A beautiful head of romaine lettuce












Lots of little hands to help











What beautiful rows of veggies!











Many hands make light work

When They are Gone for A While

This encouraged me today.

Prayers do matter.

Please continue to pray for our Hoss.

My Beautiful Little Woman turns 11

So much has happened in the little life of my oldest daughter.

Her journey began 11 years ago today, in not so good circumstances. Though I did not know her then, I can guarantee she was a fighter. She came into this world weighing 4pounds and measuring 16 inches. She appeared little, but inside she was gargantuan.
Joustled from home to home, there was not much stability in her life.

We met her 20 months later; she moved in a couple months after that meeting. Already having two rambunctious boys, little "Marie" brought a much needed respite to the Ponderosa. There were many hurdles for this little one to overcome. Developmentally she gained 15 months in the first 6 months she lived in our home. One and one-half years after she became our daughter, we discovered she had ACC. This added to the already present struggles, which included, FAE.

But my girl is a fighter. She has confounded the doctors time and again. God has truly performed many miracles in her little body.

When thinking about my precious now 11 year old, these are the things that come to mind:

~ always thinking of others
~ deep, insightful prayers that are way above her age capabilities
~ sweet spirit
~ inner driving that pushes her to not give up
~ her desire to be a mommy one day (I like to remember this one as the righteous anger builds up in me of the memory of our OLD pediatrician giving me the "talk" concerning birth control for HER, at 8 years old, stating that, "She won't ever be able to take care of children". This Dr. doesn't know my God!)
~ hearing her sing during chores

~ Most of all, her reading the Bible, something that other doctors said she would never be able to do.

Much time has passed. Many special memories have passed, too. But we continuing making them. Our sweetie and her love for Jesus make each day worth the struggles of teaching her.

Things are hard for her...lots of times....but I keep reminding her that Jesus can do far more than anyone ever expects...even in her little life.

Happy Birthday, Princess Star, Mookey Bear! We love you!

Lovey Dovey Day

Valentine's Day....that's what we are blogging about on talkin' about Thursday.

This day has always been a bitter sweet in years past. I've struggled with expectations and let those guide me instead of loving my man and enjoying him. Each year that goes by, the Lord grows me in this area. The romance is important, but there are many more important things.

~ I have a godly husband, who desires to lead this little flock in the ways of the Lord.
~ I have a godly husband who works hard every day so that I can be my children's teacher and nurturer.
~ I have a godly husband who cherishes me in the little things.

So maybe he doesn't give me flowers all the time,(although I did get a certificate for a massage this year), or lots of little gifts, but I know without a shadow of doubt that I am loved and will always be.

This year, my parents were in town, so we were able to actually go on a date the Friday before Valentine's Day. Sunday, we spent the evening with our wonderful friends and spiritual family having a Valentine's Dinner that included everyone married or single. We played a couple of games and then heard a message on The Love of God. Have you ever viewed the cross as the height, depth and breadth of love? It is the perfect picture of true agape love. Let this be our example for eternity.

Same Dog...Different Owner

Max came into our lives 1 1/2 years ago. He previously belonged to my parents who live in Tennessee. We brought him home after visiting with them at Thanksgiving. He rode so well all the way to Florida sleeping most of the way.

Each year when Dad and Mom come to visit, Max remembers them well.

But he definitely has a new owner. She does a marvelous job.

Blessings in Color

Memories of my darling daughter's knight in shining armor (who happened to be her Daddy) giving her carnations (the dried ones in the picture) for her 7th birthday tea party.

Books, Books and more books from the library. My little women love taken inside these stories.

Quiet people that keep my littlest one quiet during school.

The sweet heart and soul of "Little Joe". He and his Daddy (with other men and boys) have the privilege of studying I Timothy together in Bible Hour on Sundays. He is going to be a strong leader.

The beautiful marriage words "Mr. Cartwright" and I uttered to each other one windy November Day in 1994.

The many school lessons my children are learning. What a privilege to teach them!

Beautiful Remembrances of Past Years...my treasures have grown so quickly!

Happy Valentine's Day

Beloved Readers,

Wishing you a fantastic Valentine's Day. Don't forget who your first love is and give Him all the glory. Have fun with your other "loves" too.

Iron sharpening Iron

This is part II of making conversation intentional. Our speech can be so meaningless at times. Let yours be seasoned with salt today.

Questions from Titus 2 (see Titus 2:4-5
(taken from Carolyn Mahaney's, "Feminine Appeal")

Of the seven virtues listed in Titus 2, which one do you think your husband, father, trusted friend would like you to work on? Go ahead and ask them!

Loving your husband:
How did you choose to cherish your husband this past week?

Loving your children:
What are your current feelings about Motherhood?
How does God's Word address your present feelings?

Self-Control:
Eating, sleeping, thoughts, feelings, and time with God...which area are you most in need of self-control?
What truths about God and the Gospel can we run to in this battle?

Purity:
In what ways might you be making "provision for the flesh"? See Romans 13:1(Possible places to evaluate...T.V., books, magazines, music, situations, daydreaming...)
Hwo can you flee these temptations?

Homemaking:
Which homemaking task is your least favorite?
Which do you enjoy the most?
What does the world say about homemaking?
How does the Scripture convince us differently? See Titus 2, I Tim. 5:14 and Prov. 31

Kind:
Do you think your family would describe you as "happy"? Go ahead and ask them!
What is one way you can grow in creating a joyful atmosphere in your home? How did you seek to advance your families happiness this past week?

Submission:
How did you show your husband respect this past week?
How did you use your gifts to assist your husband?

Good-Bye to Caramel

Our beloved rabbit, Caramel died today...and once again my wee one deals with loss!

Just another opportunity to bring her to Jesus.

I think I can, I think I can, I think I can

Today on Talkin' about Thursdays we are discussing our personal goals.

Wow, this is a tough one.

I am not one to make alot of goals, period. I consider my "goals" more moments of day by day changing.

I'm not sure if this is good or bad.

One overarching "goal" is to wake in the early hours, so as to commune with my Master. This has been a fight and will be for the rest of my life. I probably have never seen it as a goal because due to the seasons in life, I don't know if I will ever achieve it.

And, I guess, this discussion, has revealed something further...I am a sort of perfectionist. If I can't attain the end result of achieving a goal without failing at all, I would rather not term it a "goal".

(Boy, I feel like I have just rambled on and on....)

On a more serious note, most of you, my lovely readers, know ,we, Cartwrights, have had quite a year in 2009 and one of us is not here right now. This event has resulted in much inner reflection.

So, I do consider a few things I would like to "own" in the next year:

1. More consistent respect and patience with my Darling. Those of us moms, who have boys that we are raising, know the importance of this. I want to honor God in this, but my little, big men also drive me to this. I am always clued into the fact that if I disrespect their Daddy, they will disrespect me...you can bet on it.

2. Reconciliation with our oldest arrow. This may not happen in my time and this desire is a "two way street", but this is my heart. Please pray for this to happen too. "Hoss" is hurting...I know the One and Only healer of that hurt. I must take my burden to This Healer every day.

3. Being proactive to help my children be more effective as "world changers." We can get very comfortable in our Western lives. I want my children to Do Hard Things.

O, Great Giver of life, empower me with your Spirit to achieve these things...for your glory.

Making Conversation Intentional

Thanks to a friend of mine, I am passing on this list of ideas to help make your conversations intentional. So much of our time is spent in idle talk. As you go about your day today, make the most of it.

How was your week?

What was encouraging about it?
~ did you find yourself remembering God in those moments?
~ how did you express your gratefulness to him for this/these encouragements?
What was challenging for you this past week?
~ what was your initial response to the challenge?
~ what were your thoughts of God in this?
~ any Scripture your mind ran to or you purposed to meditate on?
What are you struggling with right now?
How did you see God at work?
What did your time with the Lord look like?
~ what are you reading/learning/memorizing?
Did you pray? Did you pray often?
~ did you have answered prayer?
Any opportunities to share Christ with someone or at least talk about Him/His working in your life?
How's your heart?
How is your thought life?
What are your thoughts regarding _______________?
How can I pray for you this coming week?
What would be an encouragement to you this week?

Look for part II soon...

Our family

Today our family has the privilege of being part of this.

One Million Arrows is a book that I have been challenged by. I will be posting a review during the first part of March.

Standing on the Promises

God's promises are what keep us going....In the midst of whatever trial you find yourself in, trust Him. Praising Him and praying back His promises prove to be what transforms a hurting soul.

~ My beautiful marriage band that every day reminds me of my vows

~ Friendship with my mother, who is fighting cancer right now naturally...and boy, is she a fighter.

~ Rain, rain and more rain

~ The laughter of Little Joe...it is so infectious

~ Great conversations with our Tennessee visitors, who I call Dad and Mom

~Measuring my monsters....wow, how they grow each month...and wishing I could have the pencil marks on the laundry room wall for my biggest monster

~ Electricity...thinking of those needy ones in Haiti

~ God's Word that brings healing, especially the Psalms

~ This recipe...it is delicious!

~ James 1:2-4

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!

Happy Birthday, Dear!

How do I begin to tell you how honoured I am
To have you in my life?
I'll start by saying it was a dream come true
The day I became your wife.


You're my best friend in the good times
And my rock in times of sorrow.
You're the reason for sweet yesterdays
And my promise for tomorrow.


I never thought I could feel this loved
Until I became your wife.
You made this year and each other year
The best of my life.


Happy Birthday, "Mr. Cartwright"

I love you!

This is funny!?!

We are discussing laughter today with MyCup2Yours . Unfortunately, so many times I have laughed unceasingly, it was over a "you had to be there" moment. I will try to recapture that moment...

A few Christmas ago, my mother-in-law bought my husband some t-shirts. Now, these are not your normal Fruit of the Loom, or Hanes t-shirts. They reminded me of what an 80 year old man would wear....ribbed tanks that extended down the body somewhere around mid thigh, maybe even to the knee.


Well, being the great guy that "Mr. Cartwright" is, he proceeded to head to the bedroom and give one and all a "fashion show". He came out with this "beautiful", white, ribbed tank on that really did go down to mid thigh level, so needless to say they covered his shorts up. Did I forget to mention he had on dress socks and dress shoes? (The mental picture I an conjuring up is causing great laughter, even now.) Needless, to say, he has never worn those t-shirts again, except to make me laugh.

Occassionally he puts one on and hikes his pants up passed his navel and strutts around the house.

O.K., so "did you have to be there?"

I love this man!

(Yes, I did get his permission. He read it and laughed again)

Oh, Brother

Brothers....

This is a relationship that can exist throughout one's life, from age 1 to 101.


Brothers Are Forever
by Alex Romero
Brothers share a special bond,
Like blood, brotherhood,
It’s thicker than water.
Friends may come and go,
And relationships may drift apart,
But brothers are forever.
Though the sun may rise in the east,
And set in the west,
We will still be brothers.
Though the seasons may change,
Spring, summer, fall and winter;
We will still be brothers.
What God has ordained,
No man can change,
Brothers are forever.


The brothers at the Ponderosa are apart right now; my littlest man misses his big brother greatly.

Please pray for "Little Joe's" heart to heal.

The Great Giver

Have you ever stop to think, "Do I deserve all this?"

We are a blessed people. Blessed by our Creator who has lavished on us abundantly.

~There are loved ones visiting. Gran and Boompa are staying for two and a half weeks...yipee!

~ Porcupine bristles (the name my wee one gave to the 4 o'clock shadow on Mr. Cartwright's face)...although we like it better when its smooth

~ Ability to consume raw milk....legally.

~ Those intimate times with my "Marie" when she opens up her deepest heart secrets....from those depths comes questions like, "Mama, did my birth mother love me?" My darling daughter, the answer is a resounding yes. Even though your birth circumstances were less than comfortable, there was another alternative, and praise God, she didn't choose it.

~ 4 Women who chose life over death....allowing me to me a Mommy.

~ Brother Lenz, Brother Jackson, Ma'am, Brother Wilkie, Brother Trainer, and all the other staff that are ministering to my Almost Man

~ Jesus, the name that brings healing and restitution

~ Tears that cleanse the body, soul, and spirit

~ The Worship Fellowship where I find my kindred spirits