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Just Perfect..... - 7/15/2007 5:02:38 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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"I know how to live in poverty or prosperity. No matter what the situation, I've learned the secret of how to live when I'm full or when I'm hungry, when I have too much or when I have too little." Philippians 4:12
We sure had a great sermon today. Bro. Jeff preached on the Peace of God even during bad times. The examples he gave could have been ‘all of the above’ for us. He mentioned how many in our congregation had lost their jobs after 9/11 and were never able to replace those jobs with ‘like’ jobs. He mentioned health problems and worry about family issues. He preached from the book of Philippians 4:4-7. We had four baptisms today, too. All kids. I’d say ages 7 – 10. We had another boy, about 12, accept Christ and go forward for baptism. When parents are involved in church, active in church, children tend to come to Christ at an earlier age and are spared so much ugliness.
The music was a bit too modern to suit me today. I don’t really care for a bass guitar, electronic organ or drums alongside the new contemporary songs of praise, but I know we must please people of all ages and tastes. Our Minister of Music had been away and had a problem with flights. He’d been away about 14 days.
So, the news I didn’t share earlier is that our beloved Minister to Youth is moving up to be our Minister of Education. The term ‘Minister to Families’ had been considered and that’ll be a lot of his focus because we have a lot of hurting families. We’ll be searching for an Administrator, also. One of our church secretaries is moving to ‘Children’s Director’ and there’ll be a slot open for someone with a lot of office experience. All in all, it’s going to be great for our church but trying to find someone to fill Bro. Jon’s shoes as Minister to Youth will be hard. Jon is late 30’s, tho, and sure can preach! I believe it won’t be many years and he’ll be senior pastor somewhere.
If any of you are a young minister or a Youth Minister (Southern Baptist/ non-Calvinist), feel free to apply for the job. It’s First Baptist Church of Villa Rica, Georgia. www.fbcvr.com
Jim and I took over the breakfast, opening up the youth room, getting things on and going, etc., and as contact if there’s a teacher going to be away. We’ve always been the first teachers there each week. Today we were second. It seemed like a comedy of errors trying to get out of the house. Youth S/S starts before regular S/S.
We wait in hope for the LORD;
he is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
May your unfailing love rest upon us,
O LORD, even as we put our hope in you
Psalm 33:20-22
I assume we’ll get some biopsy reports either late Monday or Tuesday on Jim’s latest tissue removals. They’ll begin removing the other moles every two weeks, a couple at a time and sending those out for a biopsy. He’s taking it quite well, tho he’s VERY sore in those areas and can’t lift or do any strenuous work. Since it’s stormed every day now, our grass is tall and really needs cutting. We have rain in the forecast for the next full week, too.
My mother arrived just minutes after we got out of church and spent the afternoon with us. We walked down and saw the house our daughter had wanted to buy. Mother thought it was a wonderful house and a great bargain. She was very impressed. The big house across the street that is even prettier but has been trashed by squatters has a sign on it from a mortgage company that it is in arrears and is deserted so foreclosure has begun. That’ll be one that goes for $85,000 in a few weeks.
Mother decided to go ahead and drive over to Birmingham tonight instead of rushing tomorrow morning. She has an appointment at the UAB Dental College about her bone implant and then teeth implants for her upper teeth. She’s 75 and in wonderful health. I still worry about such major surgery. Right now, they’re talking about removing bone from her hip and placing it in her upper face and after that takes, working on steel pins for implants.
So last night I dreamed I was the Yellow Power Ranger. Now please explain THAT one! I haven’t watched the Power Rangers in years, tho the grandkids played with the pink and green for a few days a couple of weeks ago.
Jon and Mary should be back from their honeymoon and back to work tomorrow. I know they must dread getting back to the routine. I’ll be glad when vacation time is over and they don’t have to work so much overtime. I’ve got a disposable camera to turn in at Wal-Mart with wedding pictures on it. I don’t know how to use those, so hope the pictures turn out okay. After the wedding, a family friend reformatted the digital camera in just seconds and I was able to get the few I’ve shared.
Unemployment is quickly coming to an end. I have gotten two phone calls about keeping babies to be born in the late fall. That won’t help us now, tho. I’d be lying if I said I was not concerned. I feel sorry for Nick. He’s had six years of worry and older parents on top of that. I know he must wonder why he’s always been the ‘forgotten child’. Poor kid. He’s so good and loving. I just pray we can stay healthy until he’s grown and he’s grounded in his beliefs and knowledge of God’s word.
Anyhow, Jim and I can get a will written for free since we’re so low income but have large life insurance policies. I’m thinking of putting in a clause that any of my children who haven’t seen me three separate times in the year preceding my death gets $1.00. Think that’ll get some attention? LOLOL
I cannot thank God enough for bringing Jim into my life back when I was only 19! I’d prayed and waited for God’s perfect mate and I’ve not been disappointed. I can’t begin to explain the ‘oneness’ we have, nor the deep, deep love and commitment we have for each other. I have no doubt that God creates one perfect mate for each person and if we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us in our choice of husband or wife, it’ll be a perfect union. I have that perfect union and I wish the same for all of you.
Our visiting family has all returned home so I’ll be posting daily again. Thanks for all who were concerned when I missed a day or two.
God Bless!
Diane Tavegia
Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
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. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
10 I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
14 Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; 16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. 17 Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. 18 I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
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Clear Margins!!! - 7/16/2007 6:02:15 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me-the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. Acts 20:24
Jim was up a lot during the night. He tried to get out of bed gently, without me knowing it, but I always feel his absence. He came back to bed just before my alarm went off to get up for Hailee. The spot on his back, where Dr. took a deep ‘punch’ biopsy is itching horribly. The one on the front is much sorer, but that was nowhere near as deep, but a lot of skin in a good sized circle. Jim’s not one to complain, so it must be pretty bad. No call, yet, from the doctor regarding the biopsy results, but his re tests were done late Thursday. If all’s clear on these two, we might not get a call. They’ll begin the other moles now. A friend from church came by and talked with me. Two of her brothers had the blue nevi and both died of melanoma not long after it was discovered. I don’t think I’ll tell Jim that. Maybe, since I saw his not long after it appeared, maybe the doctor got it fast enough. How will I exist without Jim?
UPDATE: The NURSE CALLED! They got ALL the cancer in both spots, the ‘freckle’ like melanoma mole on the first try and the blue or black nevi with the last DEEP biopsy! The margins are clear! What beautiful words! He still has many, many spots to be removed but PRAISE THE LORD!
If we hadn’t thought to ask her to remove a skin tag by his belt buckle, he may have been too far along to save by time we saw another doctor!! Also, the Lichen Planus is getting dark on all his body except his legs and feet. That’s when it’s in remission. Another praise! God is Good!
A guy in a town about 20 miles from here, put a box of college textbooks on Freecycle and many were ones Jim will need. We picked them up late last night in a real downpour, with bald tires. We had to pull over several times. What a blessing tho! They may not be all the same books Jim will need but will be great for reference, if not.
Hailee’s mom didn’t sleep well and called to say they’d be about an hour late. I walked the dog and made myself a cup of tea. I had a hard time waking up. I’ve been sleepy all day, too.
"Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go." Joshua 1:7
It’s supposed to rain all week again. I don’t know what to do about the grass. We can’t afford to pay and have it done and Jim’s not supposed to do anything physical. We had a big, big rain on Sunday. It rained before church and then stormed really, really hard late afternoon and evening. The sun is out right now, but I’m home alone with Hailee and the group is mushy, too.
Jim took Nick and his friend, Hayden, to Monkey Joe’s today. My mother had given Nick some spending money and that’s what he chose to do. While they were gone, I removed the gold throw cover off the couch downstairs. We moved the sofa back into place and will move the Foosball game back down. Wish I’d known ahead of time that we didn’t need to go to all the trouble! We were misled, just like everyone else, it seems.
We’re moving all the stored stuff into the garage until I can get some moving boxes off Freecycle. It can stay there since we don’t have but the one car.
O God, you are my God;
I earnestly search for you.
My soul thirsts for you;
my whole body longs for you
in this parched and weary land
where there is no water.
I have seen you in your sanctuary
and gazed upon your power and glory.
Your unfailing love is better than life itself;
how I praise you!
I will praise you as long as I live,
lifting up my hands to you in prayer.
You satisfy me more than the richest feast.
I will praise you with songs of joy.
Psalm 63:1-5
Jon called last night while we were out and then called back a few hours later. They had a lovely honeymoon and start back to work today. I’m so happy for them. They are so happy and fit each other’s personalities perfectly. They’re both good looking, too. Of course, I’m prejudiced!
Boy am I hungry! I’ve been stress eating and actually gained weight since Erin left with the girls. Anyhow, I don’t want to let myself get huge and set a bad example for my grandchildren, so I’m fighting the urge to snack even on healthy things. I’ve cut my sugar in my tea down to half and cut WAY down on my Pepsi’s. No ice cream like I was eating with the granddaughters each night. I had a small container of ‘lite’ yogurt last night. Mother and I went for a walk yesterday, but she can’t keep up with me so I had to slow down to a stroll.
Sure wish we had Jazzercize in town! I think I’m going to need a lot of strength and stamina in the coming years because there’ll be no one to help me when Jim needs lifting and full care. I’d rather learn to do it all myself.
The Barna Group has some interesting articles for Evangelical Christians at the following link. http://www.barna.org This weeks article discusses other large denominations.
God Bless and Keep You ALL,
Diane Tavegia
But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
2 Timothy 3:14-15
Hebrews 10:19 And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven's Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. 20 This is the new, life-giving way that Christ has opened up for us through the sacred curtain, by means of his death for us. 21 And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God's people, 22 let us go right into the presence of God, with true hearts fully trusting him. For our evil consciences have been sprinkled with Christ's blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. 23 Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. 24 Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near. 26 Dear friends, if we deliberately continue sinning after we have received a full knowledge of the truth, there is no other sacrifice that will cover these sins. 27 There will be nothing to look forward to but the terrible expectation of God's judgment and the raging fire that will consume his enemies.
"For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God". 2 Corinthians 1:20
 "In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
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The fish aquarium - 7/17/2007 7:03:28 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
Hebrews 10:23
I can’t begin to tell you how blessed I feel that the doctor was able to get all the melanoma in the two spots she’d removed a month ago and then cut out larger areas last week. Since the margins were clear, they won’t have to biopsy his lymph nodes at this time. Jim goes back next week for the stitches to be taken out and she’ll start marking other moles or spots to be removed. He has hundreds of moles and freckles. He was a red haired child. God is so good to us! He still has some prostate concerns and his long term illnesses, but God is so good to us!
"Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Isaiah 43:1-3
Jim headed out early this morning to pick up his blood test results for the MMR and also his new shot record for college. They weren’t back. While out, he stopped by a few of the schools where he’d put in an application as a paraprofessional. Those are very low paying positions, but he can go to college at night and maybe work a summer and holiday job since the parapro is only school days. After that, he went to the Department of Labor to apply for another factory job. See, this is what really gets me. I know of healthy YOUNG men who get fired and then don’t even begin to look for jobs to support their family. My 60 year old husband with COPD, asthma, MS, Rheumatoid Arthritis, melanoma, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and possible prostate cancer is out every day job searching. The Bible says a man who won’t provide for his own wife and children is worse than an unbeliever. If you are not physically disabled, there’s NO excuse to not at least TRY to find a job!
I got a couple of leads on parents needing childcare from church friends last night. One parent has twins and another has one young child. All are teachers so I’d only have income during the school year. Infants are a lot of work, but they quickly grow into the little people who can make you laugh and keep you entertained.
I called Home Depot AGAIN. I keep leaving voice mails for the HR gal, hoping she’ll have something for me. I can walk the mile to that store so Jim can work and go to school. Also, Home Depot offers health insurance even to part time people. Maybe once kids are back in school I can get a job at a fast food place, nights.
Speaking of little ones, Hailee is so funny. She loves, loves, loves Jim! She chases him around the house, laughing and trying to grab his hand. She hollers ‘My finger!’ They make a funny pair.
It’s a small world! A lady from these forums wrote to tell me she went to the same school as Scott, Jon and Erin (our grown kids). I don’t remember her, but she remembered being in some classes with one of our kids. Also, our U.S. Senator, Johnny Isakson found out we’d lived in Meriden and asked me if we knew Bill Raveis, the realtor. We don’t know him personally but knew the name well. Johnny and he met over 20 years ago when they were first getting started in Real Estate, became great friends and keep in touch at least once a week. It’s amazing to me how things happen!
A few years ago, our male Sunday School teacher mentioned a woman’s name and her sister’s name. He and his wife had gone to college with them in another state and had remained close friends for over 30 years. Now there was NO WAY there’d be another two sisters with those first names and that age so I asked if he remembered their maiden names and sure enough, I’d gone to elementary school with them in Alabama! The world is much smaller than we imagine!
I sometimes wonder if our son’s birthfather (we legally adopted our daughter’s first baby born when she was 19 and unwed) does a search for Nicholas and reads about him on my blog. I know a lot of people spend much of their lives doing searches to see if they can find people they once knew. Well, I don’t know how someone can give up a child just because they’re inconvenient and not feel remorse later in life. I also wonder if Clint ever married and if Nick has brothers and sisters from that marriage. Erin lives not far from him but hasn’t run into him in years. I’m sure Nick will show up on his doorstep some day to find out. Won’t that wife be surprised!!!
My poor cousin is in the hospital again. She had gastric bypass surgery because the doctor said her being overweight would lead to an early death. About a year after that, her 42 year old husband, who’d graduated from college days earlier, had a major heart attack while playing with their kids and died. Since then, my cousin has had 6 or 7 surgeries to repair problems from the bypass surgery. Last week she was in the hospital with a lung infection. She’s back today, with bacterial pancreatitis. She’s still in her early 40’s.
My mother saw the dentist and he’s suggested they use slivers of bone from her pelvic area with collagen instead of cadaver bone or her own hip bone. First they have to make sure she has good bone density. The doctor who’d do that part of the procedure was not seeing patients this week so mother left Birmingham and is back in Mobile. She’s a bit tired from traveling, but is all settled in.
It was my understanding that our granddaughters were moving here and I posted asking for twin beds or bunk beds, dressers, an aquarium…. Well, I even was offered Fish for a tank! If they’d still been here, I’d probably not have gotten those offers. I’m sure someone else can use them. I ‘no thanks, not needed’ replied.
We are having massive rainfall tonight. At times the rain is so hard you can’t see the houses across the street but the sun is shinning in the middle of it all. Other times it’s dark and the rain is blowing sideways.
Jim cut the grass today. He was determined it had to be done. He’s not supposed to do anything like that until Thursday week, but he’s not a sit around kind of guy, unless it’s to listen to classical music or jazz.
Well, like I said last night, I want to be a good example to our grandchildren and not get really out of shape and way overweight so I’ve been not snacking at all, cut down on sugar in my tea and limited my Pepsi. I’m very hungry, tho we just ate supper, and am craving sweets tonight but I promise to be good. I gained 10 lbs after our daughter left and from worry, shock and stress but I’ve lost 5 lbs of that in 3 days. If the rain ever stops, I’ll start walking again and try to lose down to my pre menopause weight. That’s about a 20 lb – 25 lb weight loss but I really need to do it before this gets out of control.
So, tonight we had seafood and fresh veggies over linguini in a stir fry. It was very good and I only had a small serving. Jim and Nick both ate two large servings. Last night they each had numerous snacks while watching t.v. I had none. I sure hope I can stick with this!
Many people I know never read their Bible nor subscribe to any devotionals. I hope you’ll take a minute to read the verses I choose to share each day.
God Bless and Keep You ALL,
Diane Tavegia
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:1-2 "May the LORD give you increase, you and your children!" Psalms 115:14 "We must focus on Jesus, the source and goal of our faith. He saw the joy ahead of him, so he endured death on the cross and ignored the disgrace it brought him. Then he received the highest position in heaven, the one next to the throne of God." Hebrews 12:2 O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy. Psalm 63:1-5 "In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
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Job?? - 7/18/2007 8:21:29 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Jim has a final interview for a job as a para-professional teacher in the next small town. The principal offered him the job so I think tomorrow’s interview is a formality. He can go to college at night and will work 180 days a year, 6 ½ hours a day. It’s very low pay, spaced out over 12 months, so I’ll still need to find several babies to keep and a part time night job, but I see it as a real blessing. When he completes his degree, he’ll move into a teaching position for a good bit more. This job has GREAT insurance at an affordable price! The school year starts right at the time his unemployment would end in August and the year goes through the end of May. He’ll be working with my best friend, too. Several church friends work there and he’ll be 7 miles from the house. 8:00 a.m. til 2:30 p.m.
His appointment is Thursday at 9:00 a.m. Thursday night, his name and other people’s names, go before the ‘board’ for hiring. The principal said Jim got wonderful responses on all his references. He also asked him to reconsider being the football coach. If the college doesn’t ‘hurry up’ and get to Jim’s transcripts, it’ll be too late for him to get into school for the fall semester anyhow.
Now if the Moms God has chosen would just call………. I made up some cute fliers to hang in different places around town. I’ve not done that yet because I’d hoped to find children through referrals instead. I’ve always been very careful about taking only children from Christian families when I was keeping older kids because I didn’t want ugly words or actions being taught to the younger ones. I sure need 3 kids and soon! Would you lift that need in prayer?
I’m finally catching up on all the lost sleep from the late nights while family was here. I’m the first one going to bed each night. Of course, I’m also the first one up. I began by waking at 5:30 this morning, just long enough to glance at the clock. At 7:10 I reached over to turn it off before it alarmed and realized I’d been too tired to even set it last night. I’ve felt ‘groggy’ all morning. I’m not drinking coffee now and have cut out all treats or sweets so that could be part of it. I did eat a bowl of raisin bran before bed last night. I was just so hungry! My tummy has to adjust and shrink. I’m very tired, tonight, and it’s not even 8:00 p.m.
We had a nice supper, tho I’m still hungry. We had pork tenderloin and yellow squash. I had two small medallion sized pieces of pork and a nice serving of squash. For dessert, I had a drinkable DanActive. It’s sweet enough to seem like a treat, but it’s actually good for me.
A precious friend sent me a devotional from her pastor on ‘waiting on the Lord’. It’s so hard to wait, isn’t it? Wait for the call on test results. Wait for a call about a job. Wait for that child to come home long after curfew. Wait for a pregnancy test result. Wait for a husband or child to return from the war zone.
Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master.
Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
Had no army, yet kings feared Him.
He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world.
He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.
He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.
I’ve not heard from our grown kids for a few days so I’m guessing they’re all back to work and busy. I did talk to Jon a few times on Sunday.
I’ve got Erin and her girl’s things all in one area in the rec rooms, but didn’t get any packing boxes from Freecycle yet. Not sure how to get them back to her. Her Dad wanted to ship them collect but I’m afraid that’ll cost too much and they’ll be charged storage. I’m not even sure where they’re living.
I hope you’ll take a minute to read the verses I choose to share each day.
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6
Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. Ephesians 6:18
Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. 1 John 3:2
"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
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Jim's new job - 7/19/2007 6:51:14 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Psalms 33:1 Let the godly sing with joy to the LORD, for it is fitting to praise him. 2 Praise the LORD with melodies on the lyre; make music for him on the ten-stringed harp. 3 Sing new songs of praise to him; play skillfully on the harp and sing with joy. 4 For the word of the LORD holds true, and everything he does is worthy of our trust. 5 He loves whatever is just and good, and his unfailing love fills the earth. 6 The LORD merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born. 7 He gave the sea its boundaries and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs. 8 Let everyone in the world fear the LORD, and let everyone stand in awe of him. 9 For when he spoke, the world began! It appeared at his command. 10 The LORD shatters the plans of the nations and thwarts all their schemes. 11 But the LORD's plans stand firm forever; his intentions can never be shaken.
12 What joy for the nation whose God is the LORD, whose people he has chosen for his own. 13 The LORD looks down from heaven and sees the whole human race. 14 From his throne he observes all who live on the earth. 15 He made their hearts, so he understands everything they do. 16 The best-equipped army cannot save a king, nor is great strength enough to save a warrior. 17 Don't count on your warhorse to give you victory for all its strength, it cannot save you. 18 But the LORD watches over those who fear him, those who rely on his unfailing love. 19 He rescues them from death and keeps them alive in times of famine. 20 We depend on the LORD alone to save us. Only he can help us, protecting us like a shield. 21 In him our hearts rejoice, for we are trusting in his holy name. 22 Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, for our hope is in you alone.
I was sleeping so hard this morning, dreaming I was a trapeze artist (WHAT?) when Jim woke me because he heard Hailee and her mom on the stairs. Well…. It was only 6:10 and they don’t come until 7:10 – 7:30! I didn’t get back to sleep. ACK! I have no idea what he thought he’d heard.
Jim’s ‘final interview’ appointment this morning was pretty much just more paperwork and he came home with a huge pile of papers to fill out concerning which benefits you would like or extra things you might choose. He has orientation on July 30th. The insurance has a deductible but a very low monthly charge. We can also use our same doctors. No pre-existing condition clause. That’s all good news. I don’t know when our insurance will begin. Jim’s also going to be the Football Coach and the asst. Baseball Coach, so that adds some money per year.
Since he will have Blue Cross/ Blue Shield insurance with the school job, I can accept a job at some place like CVS that doesn’t offer insurance to part time workers. CVS had called me about a all night job weekends but it was the front counter, all alone, right off the highway and the pharmacy is opened at night with a woman on duty. Sounded just too dangerous for me, plus I’d have a real problem making it to church and caring for kids after working 11 – 7 Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. I’ll reapply but ask for other hours. The pay isn’t very good, but it all helps!
Oh, I had wondered why I wasn’t hearing from school teachers about child care, since most places don’t want infants. Well, the local school system has a new ‘children’s academy’ for teacher’s preschool children beginning at 6 weeks old. They charge a little more than I do, and at two years it jumps to $45. a week more than me, but it can be deducted from their paycheck and they aren’t charged for holidays. Guess I’d better move my focus to working moms in general! Anyhow, I have four weeks to find several kids to keep or a night job or we’ll be in trouble. God will provide.
That being said…….. only us….. The post office lost Jim’s check for the week. It always has arrived on Tuesday and it’s not here yet. He called the issuer and they insist it was posted and released on the 13th, a week tomorrow. We can’t put a stop payment and ask for another check until after tomorrow, so that’s a full week we’ll be behind. We get our neighbors mail every week or so, but I always walk it right to their mailbox, or if it’s not our street, will stick it back in our box for the next pickup.
Tonight was grilled chicken, green beans with the left over squash. I can eat all the veggies I want since they’re home picked and cooked and I know there are no ‘fats’ added. Grilled chicken is very low in calories, too. I always grill, roast or bake our chicken. The diet is working. I’ve lost some weight. I told Jim today and he seemed surprised so it must not ‘show’ yet. Nick ate four chicken legs, as well as all his vegetables. He’s the winner!
I’m being very, very good. I did have a DanActive for lunch and they taste like dessert, but no snacks and no extra salt on my food today. Jim’s 60th birthday is August 21st. I won’t have money for a gift, but it sure would be nice to ‘announce’ I was down to a decent weight for my frame. I’d LOVE to be down to 129 lbs, but that’s way lower than the doctor says is right for my frame and age, tho I’m very short. I’m sure it won’t happen, tho. I’d be pleased to lose to 135 lbs.
My mother gave me one of her lectures on the phone last night about my weight. She doesn’t know I have pictures of her when she was in her early 50’s and she was in size 14’s. Bigger than me. Now she’s about 118 lbs she says. Of course, she’s all alone and seldom does more than eat a bite or two. I LOVE to eat and LOVE to socialize around the table. Again, I’ve always been way too thin. I finally was a (lovely) normal weight at about 48. (Note to anyone who came to visit right after I was sick from the medicine I was given for the abscessed tooth…. I am NOT talking about when I weighed 114 lbs! That was VERY short lived.) Between age 52 and 56 I’ve gained about 25 -30 lbs. Menopause and stress. Good excuse if you ask me! So, now I have to work hard to try and get that off.
Have a lovely evening and rejoice! Tomorrow is FRIDAY!
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31
"Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know." Thomas said to Him, "Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?" Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:1-6
 "In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
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LONG day...... - 7/20/2007 4:56:50 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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I remember the days of old;
I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.
Psalm 143:5
This has been a very, very, very long day. I fell asleep last night, as soon as I lay down and didn’t wake until the clock went off at 7:10. I do remember being aware of clinching my teeth during the night and one hurt I clinched so hard. I’m ruining my teeth!
I called CVS and they don’t have any open positions from 6:00 p.m. til midnight ish but said they always have openings once school starts. I’m sure places like Wal-mart will have season openings and I have worked there before so maybe I can get a Christmas season job with okay hours.
We’ve decided to take the dental insurance as well as health insurance. That’s $90.00 a month, but Jim has a tooth broken off and I have pain when hot or cold touches several teeth. We could easily spend the $1,080.00 a year in one visit if we had an emergency root canal, etc. We’ll figure out how to replace that lost money. We’re still going to opt for the less expensive treatments each visit, to save on our cost. Jim will have his broken molar pulled instead of trying to save such a small bit of tooth.
There are so many pages to be read and filled out! Jim has his orientation on July 30th. He’s to have college orientation on the 23rd but they haven’t completed his transcript evaluation to tell him what is accepted or not accepted. If they wait a few more days, there won’t be any courses left for the fall. I guess that’s okay, since he’s going to coach football.
1 Kings 18:21 "And Elijah came near to all the people and said, "How long will you go limping between two different opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him." And the people did not answer him a word."
James 1:8 "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways."
Nick’s friends are home from vacation and he went over to play just minutes before a real storm hit. Our temperature is 69° and there’s a nice rain falling now. I love storms and rainy days. Even the sound is melodic to me. Hailee seems oblivious to it and so does Scooter. That’s good. I don’t like dogs to howl and bark when there’s thunder.
I talked to my mother this morning. She said the dentist in Birmingham says the mouth surgery she should have is no where near as invasive as she was led to believe. She doesn’t need her ‘face’ rebuilt, just bone added to the upper gum area so they can implant each screw for each tooth.
Jim’s check arrived today. The post office has no explanation, but it was mailed four days ago just miles from here. I’m not surprised. I had a mortgage payment take 21 days to go 12 miles. Now we drive them over. I’m so glad I keep an eye on the bank account.
I’ve got two survey checks on their way. Hope those don’t get lost! Some of them come in the fold and tear away type envelopes and they’re easy to overlook. This was a sparse ‘survey’ month for me with Jon and Mary’s wedding and Erin and the girls here. I only made $63.00 and got 2 boxes of cereal and a Lean Cuisine meal.
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2
Hey, that same group took another $10.00 out of our bank account! It’s a Reservation / Rewards group and they said I’d joined through Chadwick’s! I’ve not ordered from them in years. They’ll cancel and reimburse in 2 – 3 days and apologized.
Tonight is chicken stir fry and veggies. I got everything ready early so I could quickly cook it when Hailee left. I’m SO hungry each night at supper and am NOT satisfied afterwards. Last night I did eat two large helpings of green beans. They’re steamed and I don’t add ‘fat’ like a lot of southern women so those are unlimited to me. I’m happy to say, I’ve lost more weight.
Nick’s school books arrived. I was very surprised that Vocabulary didn’t include any spelling words. Do they think a 7th grader has learned all the words there are? Oh well…. I can get them for free off the internet. I’ve done it in previous years and saved money. I just make him look up definitions, create sentences and then learn to spell the word. Of course, since Jim’s going to be working in a Middle School, he could probably get a copy of the 7th grade spelling words used locally.
I got a lot of pictures today of Abigail. Remember her? I kept her from the time she was a tiny infant until she was 20 months old and they moved far away. She turned 2 on July 1st and they’re coming back to visit on August 4th so we’ll get to see her. She’s so cute! Her big sister has eyes that are so striking! Both of them have wonderful smiles. It’ll be so great to see them again.
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
Psalm 143:1 O Lord, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief. 2 Do not bring your servant into judgment, for no one living is righteous before you. 3 The enemy pursues me, he crushes me to the ground; he makes me dwell in darkness like those long dead. 4 So my spirit grows faint within me; my heart within me is dismayed. 5 I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. 6 I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land. Selah
7 Answer me quickly, O Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. 8 Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. 9 Rescue me from my enemies, O Lord, for I hide myself in you. 10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground. 11 For your name's sake, O Lord, preserve my life; in your righteousness, bring me out of trouble. 12 In your unfailing love, silence my enemies; destroy all my foes, for I am your servant.
"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968
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Lovely Saturday! - 7/21/2007 10:24:21 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
Have you had a lovely Saturday? I slept until around 9:00. Jim was making Spanish Omelets and Scooter heard him and woke me. Boy I was still tired. I managed a two hour nap today, too!
I got the house vacuumed and sheets changed early today. I also went through some drawers and separated my size 12’s, 10’s and 8’s. The Capri pants that are size 8, I put in a pile for the consignment shop. I can easily wear the 10’s, but I’m 10 lbs away from size 8 (or more). They’re stretch, tho. LOL STAND BACK!
Nick played all day at his friend’s house and ate supper with them so Jim and I had leftover stir fry. Again, I ate 2 servings of green beans mixed with my stir fry. My only ‘dessert’ was a second DanActive. Last night I had 2 tablespoons of strawberry lowfat yogurt and a banana. I lost another ½ lb.
I never heard anything about my cousin today. I do know she’s getting more and more ill and the infections are more serious, even deadly, at times. She has two teens and lost her husband to a massive heart attack when he was only 42 and appeared in perfect health. Not even overweight.
We have a really good Sunday School lesson for tomorrow. I hope we have as large a turn out as last week. It’s amazing to see so many youth in Sunday School during the summer. School begins here August 9th, so many people are away.
Nick and I are going to start school the last few days of July, tho public school doesn’t begin until August 9th. We’ll take the same days off as Jim, but since I can’t have ‘sick days’ for Nick, we have to have a full 180 days. Also, I want some days for ‘review’.
An online friend helped me find 7th grade spelling words and that was such a blessing! Anything we can do without having to spend money is a Godsend. I’ve got them all printed out and saved them in Word in case they get lost.
I sure wish I knew our granddaughters would be in Sunday School somewhere tomorrow. I have a very heartbroken feeling about their future and eventual salvation under their current circumstances. We’ll always be the ‘pagan’ people from the south, since we’re not part of the Catholic church. The grandmother told the 6 year old that there’s no air in Georgia.
I’m still trusting God to provide the extra money we’ll need each month for our bills. We’ve already done away with garbage pick up and cut our cell phone to bare minimum. Next would be our Directv and changing phone and DSL to bare minimum. I have to check and see if we are on a ‘contract’.
With my minor weight loss and no snacking, I’ve seemed to gain such energy. It’s amazing! I wish I had money to do some work out back in our red clay back yard. I have so many ideas! I’ve found some odd baskets, cut their handles off and will use those as container planters, but I’d love to have stepping stones, a LOT of mulch and a wooden swing for my frame. I used to see those all the time, for sale on the side of the road for less than $30.00. Now I never see them!
Jim and I need to be at Sunday School by 9:15 tomorrow to start cooking and getting lights and air on, music going and juice poured. That means leaving by 9:10, so no big deal, but it is an extra 15 minutes early and the devil sure likes to throw in some glitches. There’s no choir again this week, so Jim doesn’t have to go at 8:30 this week.
I hope you’ll make plans to be in church tomorrow. There’s a lot of statistics I could list here concerning children and if Dad isn’t in church or if they’re not in church by certain ages, but I’ve probably already made a bazillion people angry.
Tho I'm not a big fan of the PTL Club, Tammy Faye has died, weighing only 60 lbs, from her 8 year battle with colon cancer. Please remember her husband, children and grandchildren in your prayers. I believe she's in the arms of Jesus today.
Hope you’ll look at the verses I’ve chosen for YOU tonight! God Bless,  Diane Tavegia
Job 29:1 Job continued speaking: 2 "I long for the years gone by when God took care of me, 3 when he lighted the way before me and I walked safely through the darkness. 4 In my early years, the friendship of God was felt in my home. 5 The Almighty was still with me, and my children were around me. 6 In those days my cows produced milk in abundance, and my olive groves poured out streams of olive oil.
7 "Those were the days when I went to the city gate and took my place among the honored leaders. 8 The young stepped aside when they saw me, and even the aged rose in respect at my coming. 9 The princes stood in silence and put their hands over their mouths. 10 The highest officials of the city stood quietly, holding their tongues in respect. 11 "All who heard of me praised me. All who saw me spoke well of me. 12 For I helped the poor in their need and the orphans who had no one to help them. 13 I helped those who had lost hope, and they blessed me. And I caused the widows' hearts to sing for joy. 14 All I did was just and honest. Righteousness covered me like a robe, and I wore justice like a turban. 15 I served as eyes for the blind and feet for the lame. 16 I was a father to the poor and made sure that even strangers received a fair trial. 17 I broke the jaws of godless oppressors and made them release their victims.
18 "I thought, 'Surely I will die surrounded by my family after a long, good life. 19 For I am like a tree whose roots reach the water, whose branches are refreshed with the dew. 20 New honors are constantly bestowed on me, and my strength is continually renewed.' 21 "Everyone listened to me and valued my advice. They were silent as they waited for me to speak. 22 And after I spoke, they had nothing to add, for my counsel satisfied them. 23 They longed for me to speak as they longed for rain. They waited eagerly, for my words were as refreshing as the spring rain. 24 When they were discouraged, I smiled at them. My look of approval was precious to them. 25 I told them what they should do and presided over them as their chief. I lived as a king among his troops and as one who comforts those who mourn.
Job 30: 1 "But now I am mocked by those who are younger than I, by young men whose fathers are not worthy to run with my sheepdogs. 2 A lot of good they are to me those worn-out wretches! 3 They are gaunt with hunger and flee to the deserts and the wastelands, desolate and gloomy. 4 They eat coarse leaves, and they burn the roots of shrubs for heat. 5 They are driven from civilization, and people shout after them as if they were thieves. 6 So now they live in frightening ravines and in caves and among the rocks. 7 They sound like animals as they howl among the bushes; they huddle together for shelter beneath the nettles. 8 They are nameless fools, outcasts of civilization. 9 "And now their sons mock me with their vulgar song! They taunt me! 10 They despise me and won't come near me, except to spit in my face. 11 For God has cut the cords of my tent. He has humbled me, so they have thrown off all restraint. 12 These outcasts oppose me to my face. They send me sprawling; they lay traps in my path. 13 They block my road and do everything they can to hasten my calamity, knowing full well that I have no one to help me. 14 They come at me from all directions. They rush upon me when I am down.
15 I live in terror now. They hold me in contempt, and my prosperity has vanished as a cloud before a strong wind. 16 "And now my heart is broken. Depression haunts my days. 17 My weary nights are filled with pain as though something were relentlessly gnawing at my bones. 18 With a strong hand, God grabs my garment. He grips me by the collar of my tunic. 19 He has thrown me into the mud. I have become as dust and ashes. 20 "I cry to you, O God, but you don't answer me. I stand before you, and you don't bother to look. 21 You have become cruel toward me. You persecute me with your great power. 22 You throw me into the whirlwind and destroy me in the storm. 23 And I know that you are sending me to my death the destination of all who live. 24 "Surely no one would turn against the needy when they cry for help. 25 Did I not weep for those in trouble? Was I not deeply grieved for the needy? 26 So I looked for good, but evil came instead. I waited for the light, but darkness fell. 27 My heart is troubled and restless. Days of affliction have come upon me. 28 I walk in gloom, without sunlight. I stand in the public square and cry for help. 29 But instead, I am considered a brother to jackals and a companion to ostriches. 30 My skin has turned dark, and my bones burn with fever. 31 My harp plays sad music, and my flute accompanies those who weep.
"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968
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Get it? - 7/22/2007 8:41:36 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Matthew 12:43 "When an evil spirit leaves a person, it goes into the desert, seeking rest but finding none. 44 Then it says, 'I will return to the person I came from.' So it returns and finds its former home empty, swept, and clean. 45 Then the spirit finds seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they all enter the person and live there. And so that person is worse off than before. That will be the experience of this evil generation."
46 As Jesus was speaking to the crowd, his mother and brothers were outside, wanting to talk with him. 47 Someone told Jesus, "Your mother and your brothers are outside, and they want to speak to you." 48 Jesus asked, "Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?" 49 Then he pointed to his disciples and said, "These are my mother and brothers. 50 Anyone who does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother!"
Did you have a great day in the Lord’s House? We sure did. We had a very inspiring sermon by Bro. Jeff. Excellent! The sermon was taken from 1 Kings 17, 18 and 19, showing how God had a plan tho Elijah couldn’t see the plan and tried to do things his own way, running from Jezebel and fearing for his life.
Jim and I were up earlier than usual and got to Sunday School quite early. We had three or four youth show up way earlier than usual. We already had the music going, lights and air on and had started pancakes. Everything went pretty smoothly. We did run out of milk and orange juice, but attendance was slightly down so we didn’t need more than we had.
I’d gotten the house all straightened before leaving for church and had a beef roast in my slow cooker for lunch, making the afternoon quite easy. I just added mashed potatoes and gravy plus some collard greens. I ate two big spoons of collards, a small amount of potatoes and a small slice of meat. I had NO pancakes at church and had a DanActive for supper. No snacks!
A young college student had 6 new cinderblocks to give away and we went to Carrollton and picked them up for our backyard. That’s a start to a retaining wall. We only need it high enough to divert the runoff from the yard behind us, so I’m going to (I KNOW this sounds weird and funky) paint the bricks a shade of dark green, fill in the holes with potting soil and some English ivy. Jon and Mary have some growing up their trees and in the vacant lot (wooded) and said I can come get it there. By mid to late summer, I’ll see a lot of Monkey Grass on Freecycle and can put some of that in front of the bricks too, making them ‘invisible’ if necessary. I got a small amount of monkey grass last year and put it in front of the deck to divert water away from standing under there. I need a LOT more. I’ll also get some Tiger Lilies when they finish blooming. Those take a while in this horrid clay but then will begin to fill in whole blank spots in a yard. I’ve got a lot of blank spots out back.
I took another nap today. I didn’t go to bed until 11:30 last night and then got up right after 7:00, but slept a good 2 hours. Hope I can go to sleep early tonight since Hailee will be here at 7:10 and Jim needs to get over to the college and to the Health Department to pick up his shot record.
Jim has orientation on July 30th and then begins work the next Monday. They’ll have teacher’s work days Mon. – Wednesday with school starting on Thursday, August 9th.
Nick’s sleeping over at his friend’s house tonight. We’re going to start some review this week to get ready for school. I’ve printed out a lot of review pages but boy do I need to go through his big bin of school books and workbooks to decide what to keep and what to use this year or put on Ebay. Since we live near a Scholastic Warehouse, we get invited to their ‘blowout sales’ a few times a year and can buy books for about 75% off. They’ll also send a $10.00 coupon to each of us! I’d bought some books to go along with his history books the last few years. Last years history was ancient civilization and we got some books on mummies, ancient kings, etc. Nick likes that stuff.
"So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift." Matthew 5:23-24
"All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation." 2 Corinthians 5:17-19
Jim’s 60th birthday is August 21st. I wish we could have all our kids, his sisters and some others come for a surprise party. They all live so far away, tho. Only Jon, Mary and the girls live near by. This birthday is REALLY bothering Jim. He doesn’t look or feel his age and just can’t believe he’s that old. If you want to send him a birthday card, feel free. Silly or serious!
Jim Tavegia
209 Lost Lake Way
Villa Rica, Ga. 30180
We’re planning a cook-out for Labor Day. Not sure if we’ll have it here or at Jon and Mary’s house. The local corn will be ready by then. I might make my Blueberry Cake I’d told Kaylee I’d make for her. Wish she’d be here to taste it.
So, I’m still trying to figure out how to make the extra money we need each month just to pay our bills. This is going to be a last minute answer from God, it seems. I’ve learned to wait for HIS hand, tho. He always comes through.
God Bless, Diane Tavegia My soul is in anguish. How long, O Lord, how long? Turn, O Lord, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love. No one remembers you when he is dead. Who praises you from the grave? I am worn out from groaning; all night long I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears. My eyes grow weak with sorrow; they fail because of all my foes. Away from me, all you who do evil, for the Lord has heard my weeping. The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer. All my enemies will be ashamed and dismayed; they will turn back in sudden disgrace. Psalm 6:3-10 "In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
< Message edited by dianetavegia -- 7/22/2007 9:15:58 PM >
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Comedy of Errors - 7/23/2007 9:10:27 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Then the Lord said to Cain, "Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it."
Genesis 4:6-7
I made up some really cute fliers about childcare last week and need to put them up. I can’t get out since we only have one car but maybe after supper tonight, when Jim is home.
So I spent part of the day trying to figure out where we might cut expenses. We don’t have a t.v. antenna, but I could probably get one for free on Freecycle. Nick is very upset about possibly having only 3 local channels. ‘It’s the only thing we “do”’ says he. He’s right, of course. I was going to give up the phone package but Jim needs DSL for some online classes he’ll be taking. It’s called ‘cohort’ instead of online and is accepted by those who give the grant. Heat, Water, Electric are pretty ‘basic’. The car will be paid off in about 11 months. It’s 0% interest. We won’t give up our life insurance until Nick is grown. That cost a LOT each month because of Jim’s health. I just need 2 or 3 kids to keep, is all.
Meanwhile, today was a comedy of errors.
Jim went to the Health Department in Carrollton to pick up his test results and shot record. He was told the results were still not in. He was almost home and they called to say they had arrived. When he got to the Health Department, he was told his MMR was negative so he’d never had measles. He had to get a shot for $34.00 and another next month. He’d just paid a huge amount for the blood test to prove he had the measles as a child. So, as he’s leaving there, a professor wrote to say if Jim would get a special paper and bring it by his office at the college for his signature, he’d made room for him in his class. Then, while Jim is just about to leave, the Registrars office called to say they have Jim’s DD214 but no application for his GI Bill and since he was in the service so many years ago, he may still qualify for that and to please come by fill that out.
We filled out all the school papers and school papers for his new job tonight. Whew, what a pile of papers! Jim got a Pell Grant and the lady in the registrar’s office thinks he falls into a glitch where he can still get the money for his G.I. Bill.
The dermatologist called to say Jim’s appointment this Thursday will only be to remove stitches and the doctor can see him to look over his other ‘moles and spots’ on Monday at 2:45. He has orientation for his new job that day and is supposed to be out of there before 1:00. We assume his health insurance begins either Sept. 1st or Oct. 1st… or November 1st. It’s very confusing how it’s worded. Whenever will be a blessing!
I’m so glad things are going well for Jim during this time of waiting. Please continue to pray that he has no more melanoma spots and that his PSA test for Prostate Cancer, on Sept. 24th comes back reduced numbers. He’s taking his medication each day and know so many are praying for us.
When I thought of our ‘golden years’, I never thought they’d be like this. Living off food stamps, working odd jobs and always worried about ‘what if’. Those first so many years were all just ‘chasing the wind’.
God Bless, Diane Tavegia
“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin.” Romans 6:1-7
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Really down today - 7/24/2007 5:52:23 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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"Lift up your heads, O gates!
And lift them up, O ancient doors that the King of glory may come in.
Who is this King of glory?
The LORD of hosts, HE is the King of glory!"
Psalms 24:9-10
My brain has turned to mush. I did sleep really hard last night, but I think it’s going to be many months before I can relax mentally, again. I don’t like change. Never have liked change. Things change around here, every day now.
I feel totally alone in the world. I have no one I can talk to, either. I did get to talk to my best friend, Jennie, and she’s very supportive but has three teens at home and offered to watch for a job for me. I can’t talk to my mother about this because she’s very anti-home schooling. Our sons both work long hours and can’t be called at work.
Jim’s mad at me because I won’t apply for a church job that I’m not qualified to do, and leave Nick at home 9 hours a day to ‘home school’ himself 7th grade. The job is on a 1099, has no benefits and I have no transportation to and from work. But I’m the bad guy. I can make MORE money just by having 2 more children to keep and be home to school Nick. But I’m the bad guy. I’m so very, very, very tired of being blamed for everything that goes wrong.
James 1: 2 Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. 3 For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything. 5 If you need wisdom if you want to know what God wants you to do ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. 6 But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. 7 People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.
I printed out a calendar of known doctor visits and other appointments today and hung it on the fridge. There’s just so many that I can’t keep them straight. I have 9 already on the calendar. After the dermatologist does the full body exam for Jim on Monday, I’m sure we’ll be adding more. Hurry up and wait…….
Also, since we don’t have insurance yet, I had to move my mammogram, due this past April, to the end of November. The only appointment they had open was a day Jim cannot take off to take me. I cannot drive in Atlanta so this is going to be horrible for me. The doctor visit itself is nerve wracking. They do a mammogram and ultrasound, read the results and then call you in to see the doctor. It takes half a day. I’ll have to drive into Atlanta with rush hour traffic.
Nick has a dentist appointment this Thursday for a cleaning and x-rays. He’s not had any cavities since he was 4 or 5 so hopefully it’ll be fine again. I don’t want him to have teeth like me!
I tried to apply for a part time job at Wal-Mart. Their system won’t accept Windows XP. I thought I’d get my application in even tho they don’t have any openings right now. The lady said that 6:00 p.m. til midnight is prime hours for cashiers and she knows they’ll open some positions up soon so to come in as soon as I can to apply. I’ll have to do it on their kiosk within the store. That’s another store I could ‘walk to’, if necessary. It’s 1.1 mile from my front door to their front door. BAD and dangerous road, but it seems the Lord just wants to see how willing we are to do whatever it takes. Those hours wouldn’t interfere with schooling or childcare and they pay social security.
I applied, again today, for an evening and weekend job at Home Depot. I called and left another voice mail for the woman in Human Resources. I’ve not gotten any calls about child care. I’m totally overwhelmed.
We finally got reimbursed for the Reservation ‘club’ someone signed my debit card up for and then Jim started getting hourly ‘stock updates’ on his cell phone. It took a good 30 minutes to get it figured out and blocked but T-Mobile is so nice about that sort of thing.
God Bless, Diane Tavegia
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:14
1 Corinthians 6:1 When you have something against another Christian, why do you file a lawsuit and ask a secular court to decide the matter, instead of taking it to other Christians to decide who is right? 2 Don't you know that someday we Christians are going to judge the world? And since you are going to judge the world, can't you decide these little things among yourselves? 3 Don't you realize that we Christians will judge angels? So you should surely be able to resolve ordinary disagreements here on earth. 4 If you have legal disputes about such matters, why do you go to outside judges who are not respected by the church? 5 I am saying this to shame you. Isn't there anyone in all the church who is wise enough to decide these arguments? 6 But instead, one Christian sues another right in front of unbelievers! 7 To have such lawsuits at all is a real defeat for you. Why not just accept the injustice and leave it at that? Why not let yourselves be cheated? 8 But instead, you yourselves are the ones who do wrong and cheat even your own Christian brothers and sisters.
9 Don't you know that those who do wrong will have no share in the Kingdom of God? Don't fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, who are idol worshipers, adulterers, male prostitutes, homosexuals, 10 thieves, greedy people, drunkards, abusers, and swindlers none of these will have a share in the Kingdom of God. 11 There was a time when some of you were just like that, but now your sins have been washed away, and you have been set apart for God. You have been made right with God because of what the Lord Jesus Christ and the Spirit of our God have done for you.
12 You may say, "I am allowed to do anything." But I reply, "Not everything is good for you." And even though "I am allowed to do anything," I must not become a slave to anything. 13 You say, "Food is for the stomach, and the stomach is for food." This is true, though someday God will do away with both of them. But our bodies were not made for sexual immorality. They were made for the Lord, and the Lord cares about our bodies. 14 And God will raise our bodies from the dead by his marvelous power, just as he raised our Lord from the dead. 15 Don't you realize that your bodies are actually parts of Christ? Should a man take his body, which belongs to Christ, and join it to a prostitute? Never! 16 And don't you know that if a man joins himself to a prostitute, he becomes one body with her? For the Scriptures say, "The two are united into one." 17 But the person who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him. 18 Run away from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does. For sexual immorality is a sin against your own body. 19 Or don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, 20 for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body.
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. Hebrews 12:1-3
 "In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
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thirst - 7/25/2007 5:42:58 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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"O God, You are my God; early will I seek You: my soul thirsts for You, my flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; to see Your power and Your glory, so as I have seen You in the sanctuary." Psalms 63:1-2
Boy this week is going so slowly. Too much time to ‘think’. My soul is thirsty.
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18
Nick came home last night with over 50 mosquito bites. If you’ve known me over the years, you’ll know he’s been very allergic to mosquito bites since he turned 4 years old. 8 years. He takes two meds by mouth, every night and year round to try and keep the swelling down and then we have a steroid cream to put on new bites. Some are huge this morning but the swelling is only in the bite and not surrounding tissue so far. Many have started to go away. He has one spot on the side of his knee where he had three bites right next to each other. He rubbed at them because they were itching and got a ‘hive’ in that area. I gave him some Motrin and we’ll see if it goes down in a while. He KNOWS how badly he reacts and still, sat on a back deck, swatting at mosquitoes with the other kids. He could have come home for bug spray and long pants. I’m peeved at him about this. The last 7 years, he’s been on Prednisone at least once for severe reactions. ** The hive was gone within the hour. *** They’re all much smaller as of suppertime.
Jim hasn’t gotten an answer from one of the professors at college and if he doesn’t get an override on a ‘student’ cap, he has a problem. All the classes are filled that he needs to take and the teachers are allowed to override and allow another student. If he can’t get another class, he can’t take any til winter because of the rules that go along with the ‘grants’ he received. So, he wrote the college he attended in the Stone Age because they have online classes. The problem there is that the Pell Grant and other federal money doesn’t allow online only classes. He asked Ottawa Baptist University for help. If he ‘attends’ there, he’ll graduate VERY quickly because all his courses will still be good where as things such as Bible won’t transfer to a secular college. Honestly, I hope they can work it out and he can graduate from Ottawa. The sooner the better!
I was the ‘submissive wife’ and called someone in the know at church and asked the basic qualifications for the church job I mentioned yesterday. I have ONE qualification out of many, many. It’s actually two jobs. One vacant and one newly created and being made into one major job. That ruled me out.
Jim has an interview at a temp agency for a weekend job tomorrow at the same time as Nick’s dental appointment. We have one car. The good thing is, they’re in the same direction. His interview is at exit 44 and the dentist is at exit 34. He’ll drop us off, go and fill out paperwork, and we’ll just wait if we finish early. Generally it’s a fast visit, but since school is out, it may mean a bit of a wait. The dentist is a kid’s dentist and has video games plus kids programming going on a lot of televisions. Hailee will enjoy herself.
Truth be told….. At this point and the way things are going……. I don’t expect anything good. In fact, I expect we’ll need to put a ‘For Sale by Owner’ on our house in a few months and just sell it for what we owe on it. Things go from bad to worse for us. I feel as tho God has turned His Face from us and doesn’t hear our cries for guidance and help.
I’ve lost more weight but I forgot to weigh until I had dressed, so am not sure how much more. Every little bit is a step in the right direction.
Jim’s getting closer and closer to turning 60. He’s really dreading it. I can’t believe it myself. I have no idea where the years went. Seems like life was just moving right along and one day I was in my 50’s. It’s quite scary. The last 10- 15 were over in a flash. My mother says the years drag when you’re all alone. I don’t think I’m brave enough to grow old.
My cousin who had gastric bypass is having super major surgery this coming Monday. She’s on a blender/ mashed food diet or liquid diet to try and build her up so she can make it through surgery. She was down to 80 lbs last time I heard her weight and she’s quite tall and big boned. All because some doctor told her to lose weight or she’d die young. She’s 45. Please pray for her and her children.
Well, I’m waiting for a miracle. We need for me to find either a part time night job or 2 -3 children to keep and I must have the income by Sept. 1st or sooner. PLEASE pray for us. I can’t.
God Bless, Diane Tavegia
"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968
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In the midst of the storm - 7/26/2007 7:10:46 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us.
 He calmed the storm to a whisper and stilled the waves. Psalms 107:29
A complete stranger from about a mile away came to our house last night and asked to use our computer to send out two contracts for her business. Her internet was down. While here, she prayed for our family and said the Lord had told her to tell us He has blessings in store for our family. We only have to receive them.
Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in Heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Matthew 18:19-20
So……….
Today I got a call from a mother of 3. She needs full time child care for the 1 year old and care during school holidays for the 5 ½ and 8 year old. All girls. I gave her a reduced price for when all three are here. We’ll start next Tuesday. Well, they’re coming to meet us on Saturday, but it’s all set as far as we’re concerned.
Then, I felt really led to speak to Jim. Everything with the local college is just going wrong. Professors are not returning calls. Classes are filled. Credits won’t transfer, etc. I told him I felt the Lord was speaking to him to attend his Baptist college, online, and just take a loan if there’s cost over and above the grants he’s been given. The local college won’t accept Latin. It won’t transfer 4 classes in English and Bible. By going back to Ottawa University (Kansas), it’ll cost more per hour, but mean a LOT LESS hours til graduation. He contacted them and since they’re now on quarters instead of semesters, he has til the end of August. Classes are still open. They’re working on his G.I. Bill, other grants and since he only needs a few hours, he is eligible to get large loans, even at age 60. Hey, maybe they give a senior citizen discount! Doesn’t hurt to ask. LOL He still has sports eligibility left. Surely some college somewhere needs a 60 year old pitcher who can ‘bring the heat’. He was on Ottawa’s football team back in the day. Place kicker. Hmmmmmmm Sports scholarship!
Also, I’d seen a part time job at a factory for Fri., Sat., and Sun. Jim went and applied. I told him to NOT take his resume but to list where he’d worked and put down what he’d done and not the fancy ‘titles’ he’d had. The woman has already sent him an email with an online assessment but she feels sure he’ll get the job. He flew through the assessment test, passing every level in just minutes. He’s very smart. It’s LOW pay and light work, but is from 3:30 p.m. til 2:00 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. I’m not sure when we’ll hear for sure. It’ll be hard, but between that, the assistant teacher job and the new daycare child, we’ll make what we need for our bills. Not a penny to spare, tho so I’ll still take the infants in the winter that will be newborns.
So, the last count on mosquito bites is 61. I had Nick use Caladryl today on what’s left to dry up the little bites and stop any itch. He’s back out playing but in long pants and with his arms and neck sprayed.
Nick had a great dental visit today but it took foooooooorrrrrrrrreeeeeeeeeevvvvvvvvver! They’d called to see if they could reschedule, but I won’t have the car and will have extra kids, so I asked to be worked in. Nick was taken back at 1:50 and got out at 3:45. WHEW. He’s as tall as the dentist. She loves him. They visit and talk for a long time. He told her about his mosquito bite allergy, what we’ll be doing in home school this year and how his friends all drink soda while he sticks with milk or some 100% juice.
The doctor had given me some medication for anxiety during menopause. I’d take it about 3 days a month for the last 4 years. With all that has been going on, I was taking it twice daily for 3 or 4 days, skipping it for a few and then taking it again 3-4 days for about the last 3 to 4 weeks. I had a very scary reaction. It made my vision ‘quiver’ 3 or 4 times in the last two weeks. I was looking in the mirror the last time it happened and my eye doesn’t move, just a ‘quiver’ in my sight and it wasn’t always the same eye. It lasted for maybe one full second. I called the doctor, who didn’t get back to me for 24 hours, so I called the pharmacist and he told me it is a rare side effect of anti anxiety medications and that it probably had built up to full levels in my body. Well, I stopped that stuff cold! I had two or three anxious days and a sleepless night. The sleepless night was caused from me thinking my eye was going to quiver. Panic and anxiety are ugly things. When I have something worrying me, like finances, I worry about something else instead. Weird, huh? I hope I can sleep well tonight. I don’t like panic attacks, but I don’t like side effects. Also, last time he rewrote the prescription, the doctor had raised the strength without me asking him to FOUR TIMES STRONGER. I don’t understand why, except he knows all the stuff we’ve gone through in the last few years and maybe he thought I’d need stronger. So, the doctor told me to cut them in half and see if it stopped. No thanks! I’d rather do without. Afterwards, I read the black box paper with all the side effects and found sleep apnea, which I just developed, weight gain of 20- 60 lbs, distorted vision or visual disturbances and much more. BOO! Scared me!
Exodus 15: 26 "If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in his sight, obeying his commands and laws, then I will not make you suffer the diseases I sent on the Egyptians; for I am the LORD who heals you."
That being said, I’ve now lost 8 lbs. I’m very proud of myself tho it has been very hard when Jim and Nick eat snacks several times after supper. The most I’ll have is two tablespoons of lowfat yogurt. I already LOOK better. I think it’s going to age my face, tho.
I’m so very sleepy but can’t put the dog down for another 2 hours or so. Hope and pray I sleep well tonight.
THANK YOU FOR THE PRAYERS, emails, e-cards and phone calls. I’m very blessed! God Bless You, Diane Tavegia
1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. 2 Has the LORD redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has saved you from your enemies. 3 For he has gathered the exiles from many lands, from east and west, from north and south. 4 Some wandered in the desert, lost and homeless. 5 Hungry and thirsty, they nearly died. 6 "LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, and he rescued them from their distress. 7 He led them straight to safety, to a city where they could live. 8 Let them praise the LORD for his great love and for all his wonderful deeds to them. 9 For he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.
10 Some sat in darkness and deepest gloom, miserable prisoners in chains. 11 They rebelled against the words of God, scorning the counsel of the Most High. 12 That is why he broke them with hard labor; they fell, and no one helped them rise again. 13 "LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. 14 He led them from the darkness and deepest gloom; he snapped their chains. 15 Let them praise the LORD for his great love and for all his wonderful deeds to them. 16 For he broke down their prison gates of bronze; he cut apart their bars of iron.
17 Some were fools in their rebellion; they suffered for their sins. 18 Their appetites were gone, and death was near. 19 "LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. 20 He spoke, and they were healed snatched from the door of death. 21 Let them praise the LORD for his great love and for all his wonderful deeds to them. 22 Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and sing joyfully about his glorious acts.
23 Some went off in ships, plying the trade routes of the world. 24 They, too, observed the LORD's power in action, his impressive works on the deepest seas. 25 He spoke, and the winds rose, stirring up the waves. 26 Their ships were tossed to the heavens and sank again to the depths; the sailors cringed in terror. 27 They reeled and staggered like drunkards and were at their wits' end. 28 "LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. 29 He calmed the storm to a whisper and stilled the waves. 30 What a blessing was that stillness as he brought them safely into harbor! 31 Let them praise the LORD for his great love and for all his wonderful deeds to them. 32 Let them exalt him publicly before the congregation and before the leaders of the nation.
33 He changes rivers into deserts, and springs of water into dry land. 34 He turns the fruitful land into salty wastelands, because of the wickedness of those who live there. 35 But he also turns deserts into pools of water, the dry land into flowing springs. 36 He brings the hungry to settle there and build their cities. 37 They sow their fields, plant their vineyards, and harvest their bumper crops. 38 How he blesses them! They raise large families there, and their herds of cattle increase. 39 When they decrease in number and become impoverished through oppression, trouble, and sorrow, 40 the LORD pours contempt on their princes, causing them to wander in trackless wastelands. 41 But he rescues the poor from their distress and increases their families like vast flocks of sheep. 42 The godly will see these things and be glad, while the wicked are stricken silent. 43 Those who are wise will take all this to heart; they will see in our history the faithful love of the LORD.
“By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." 1 Corinthians 1:18
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Very productive day, here - 7/27/2007 5:26:59 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.
Psalm 20:7
I’m very happy to tell you that I slept really well last night. I woke when the alarm went off and was up only minutes before Hailee got here. Jim did disturb me once or twice. He must have been having bad dreams.
Well my idea about Ottawa Baptist University online backfired. They only offer limited degrees online and at Jim’s age, none fit his plans for the future. Another para-professional mentioned the college she’s attending, and then I found a scholarship for rural area Math teachers. Jim’s quite a math whiz. That website doesn’t want to open today, tho. He also wrote another professor at the local college to see if she’d open one spot for him. His four English classes didn’t transfer and this is basic English 101. You’d think one of these professors would answer his emails! I’d hoped it would be Spanish since Nick will be taking it this year, too. I took five years of French and Jim took four years of Latin. I’m going to have to get some help from Lori and Pedro on pronunciation. That’s our Hispanic Minister and his wife. Spanish is Pedro’s third language. English is second. He’s from Guatemala and just a terrific guy. Our church is sure blessed to have them both.
I’ve done three loads of laundry and got that all finished today. I’m not sure what time the family for daycare will want to drop by on Saturday and I don’t want to have piles of clothes sorted in the hallway. Those laundry rooms right off the bedrooms are great, unless you have company drop by in the middle of some loads.
Today was a long day and I’m not sure why. I did seem to accomplish a lot, tho. I made a shrimp fried rice (stir-fry) and green beans for supper. I like having the extra ‘food’ (green beans) that’s virtually calorie free so I can eat plenty of food and not feel I’ve gone over my limit. I don’t like feeling empty or hungry. It’s going to take a while to shrink my tummy volume.
I got another survey check in the mail today. I have another that’ll be mailed on August 1st. I know it seems silly, but an extra $50 - $60 a month means a lot to us.
The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy
Proverbs 12:22
I sprayed Nick really well with the new dry bug spray yesterday and he still got bit. One bite was on his shoulder. Either it bit through his clothes or flew up his sleeve. That boy must be really tasty to bugs. Those didn’t swell too much. I’ll be so glad when he’s outgrown this allergy, if he ever does. He’s been out playing all day. I’ll spray him again when he comes in for supper.
Nick is growing so fast. It seems as if he grows every night. He’s way taller than I am now. Last time I measured, he was 5’5”. He’s also 99 lbs. He’s long and thin. All legs. His birthfather, Clint, was very tall at 21. I assume he didn’t grow much more, but he was over 6 foot tall. Our daughter was always attracted to tall, thin guys. I like a guy with meat on his bones. Not fat, mind you, but not really thin.
That being said, tomorrow is half price at the local consignment shop. I need to go and see if they have any size 16 pants. I got him two pair a few weeks ago with my ‘store credit’ from things we’d sold. I’m sure I have more money by now. I’d taken in all his size 12 / 14’s and some were very nice items. Erin bought Nick a bunch of shirts and a pair of pants when she visited a while back. He just needs more pants. They open at 9:00 a.m.
It looks like we might have an evening volcano, I mean rain shower. All this rain has brought out the mosquitoes in full force, but also cut down on snakes. Snakes were coming out to find water. Jim went out and cut our grass, just in case. It was getting long. We have several brown patches where neighbors walk their dogs. He had to stop right after starting to go and get some fire ant killer. We used to have the most beautiful yard in our neighborhood up north. Now all we can grow is red clay and fire ants.
Please don’t forget my cousin who’ll be having major surgery on Monday to repair all the damage caused by her gastric bypass surgery. She’s so very ill and this is just about the last thing they know to do.
I’m down another pound! I sure hope the weight loss keeps going so well. All it has taken so far is watching serving amounts, cutting down on soda, eating healthy foods and no snacks while watching t.v. at night. My size 10 jeans are not tight in the legs. I’m quite pleased. I did save my nice size 8’s and hope I can get into those again someday. Remember, I’m very short so it’s all relative.
Reminder to our relatives and friends: Jim turns 60 on August 21st. This one is a lot harder than 50 was.
I know many of you just come to read what my family is doing each day, but please read the Bible verses below the Lord has led me to share with you today.
I use modern versions because many who read my blog are not in church or have not been raised in churches that encourage Bible study or scripture memorization and I felt led to use the versions that would be easy to understand.
May the Good Lord bless and keep you, Diane Tavegia
Jeremiah 17:5 This is what the LORD says: "Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans and turn their hearts away from the LORD. 6 They are like stunted shrubs in the desert, with no hope for the future. They will live in the barren wilderness, on the salty flats where no one lives. 7 "But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. 8 They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they go right on producing delicious fruit. 9 "The human heart is most deceitful and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is? 10 But I know! I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve." 11 Like a bird that hatches eggs she has not laid, so are those who get their wealth by unjust means. Sooner or later they will lose their riches and, at the end of their lives, will become poor old fools.
Mark 12: 38 Here are some of the other things he taught them at this time: "Beware of these teachers of religious law! For they love to parade in flowing robes and to have everyone bow to them as they walk in the marketplaces. 39 And how they love the seats of honor in the synagogues and at banquets. 40 But they shamelessly cheat widows out of their property, and then, to cover up the kind of people they really are, they make long prayers in public. Because of this, their punishment will be the greater."
41 Jesus went over to the collection box in the Temple and sat and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. 42 Then a poor widow came and dropped in two pennies. 43 He called his disciples to him and said, "I assure you, this poor widow has given more than all the others have given. 44 For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has."
Mark 11:22 Then Jesus said to the disciples, "Have faith in God. 23 I assure you that you can say to this mountain, 'May God lift you up and throw you into the sea,' and your command will be obeyed. All that's required is that you really believe and do not doubt in your heart. 24 Listen to me! You can pray for anything, and if you believe, you will have it. 25 But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.”
"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
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Saturday - 7/28/2007 7:12:58 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 "Agree with God, and be at peace; then good will come to you." Job 22:21
Did you sleep well? I was awake much too late, watching t.v., but I did sleep well. I woke at 7:30 and am not one who can go back to sleep.
Right after I posted last night, the Spanish Professor wrote Jim and gave him permission to enter the class, even tho he had a full roster of students. That was a real blessing. It was exactly what we’d hoped for. Nick will begin Spanish, taught by me (and I took 5 years of French instead of Spanish) and Jim will begin at the college. He can work with Nick and help with pronunciation. That should be fun. We can do the busy work and Jim can help with audio lingo.
Since Jim will be going to school on Wednesday nights, I’ll have to see if Nick and I can ride with Ellen from next door each week or Kelly from the next neighborhood over. I’m sure they won’t mind. I really enjoy working with the youth and am actually excited about this year. Nick and his friends will be ‘moving up’.
The family who’d called about daycare came to meet us today. They have 3 gorgeous little girls, 1, 5 and 8 1/2. I’ll begin keeping the baby on Tuesday and will have the older girls only on some school holidays or a few days before school begins. The older two are in Christian private schools in another town. I can’t wait for Hailee to meet the new child. She’ll be thrilled to have a playmate. She’s really missed Abigail, and with Jim heading back to work and then to school, she’d really be confused.
I’ve done a little housework today, but watched a lot of do it yourself shows on t.v. I love those shows! I really enjoy the landscape makeovers and the guys who do things with stone. I’d love to have them fix MY backyard! Even just the one side that is so barren and washes away. We have created some raised beds and have some gorgeous ‘Oak Leaf Hydrangeas’ outside my bedroom window. Those and the Butterfly Bushes (4) are in full bloom. I think I need to move my Weigelia. The three Butterfly Bushes in one bed got huge and overtook it. In fact, they sort of leaned forward and are covering much of it. Oh, I’ll trim them back next spring, but I’m afraid it will just happen again. We’re watching for some decking or discarded wood on Freecycle to create more raised beds.
Today was half price at the consignment shop. I was there by 9:30 and got Nick two great looking pair of very expensive blue jeans and a dark green pair of pants for $7.50 total. The jeans look brand new.
 "For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matthew 11:30
We had quite a storm right after going to bed last night. The lightening flashed and lit up the house. It woke Scooter and he moved around, but didn’t fuss. He’s such a good dog. We’ve had lots of rain since churches started praying for rain. We’re still in a drought but can use water outside again. The wet ground and over 90° temp sure made Scooter stink! I had to bathe him! Phew!
Jim picked up the pictures from Jon and Mary’s wedding that I’d taken on the disposable camera. They’re good, but from too far away. There are some really sweet ones, tho. From my seat, I couldn’t see our flower girl except in one or two shots. I did get one of her going down the aisle, but she was looking the other way. You can see Nick as ring bearer in almost all the photos, but again, from really far away. When I cropped them and enlarged, they got really fuzzy. It’s okay. They had a professional photographer, a guy video tape it and several friends with really nice cameras.
My cousin’s surgery got pushed ahead to today. She’s in recovery as I type. I sure hope she’s okay. They told her earlier that she had more scar tissue than they’d ever seen in gastric bypass and that might be the cause of all her problems. I’m sure her children and parents are very worried. Especially the kids, since their father died unexpectedly at 42.
Have a great Lord’s Day and God Bless,  Diane Tavegia
Matthew 11:25 At that time Jesus said, "I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned and revealed them to infants. 26 Yes, Father, because this was Your good pleasure. 27 All things have been entrusted to Me by My Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son desires to reveal Him. 28 "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Psalm 6:1 O LORD, do not rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your rage. 2 Have compassion on me, LORD, for I am weak. Heal me, LORD, for my body is in agony. 3 I am sick at heart. How long, O LORD, until you restore me? 4 Return, O LORD, and rescue me. Save me because of your unfailing love. 5 For in death, who remembers you? Who can praise you from the grave? 6 I am worn out from sobbing. Every night tears drench my bed; my pillow is wet from weeping. 7 My vision is blurred by grief; my eyes are worn out because of all my enemies.
8 Go away, all you who do evil, for the LORD has heard my crying. 9 The LORD has heard my plea; the LORD will answer my prayer. 10 May all my enemies be disgraced and terrified. May they suddenly turn back in shame!
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Sunday at our house - 7/29/2007 9:00:39 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit." Romans 14:17
Did you have a great day in the Lord’s house? We sure did. Wow! We had SO many girls in our class that we had no chairs or floor space left! 7 people sat on the floor! The music was very worship inspiring and the sermon was great. Bro. Jeff is a GREAT preacher. Tonight was a pot luck supper and we skipped it. We eat our big meal at lunchtime on Sunday and I won’t eat tonight.
I got in a 20 – 30 minute nap today while Jim took Nick to the movie. Nick wanted to see “The Simpsons”. Nick said it was really funny. Jim rolled his eyes. We don’t watch their t.v. show. Anyhow, I usually sleep 2 hours when I get to nap, but I got a phone call right after I fell asleep and that did it for the day. That’s okay, tho, because a good friend called later in the day and I enjoyed the ‘visit’.
Anyhow, Nick and I played Monopoly for hours. He defeated me quite soundly. OUCH! He didn’t even have Park Place, either.
Jim has his job orientation tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. and then his ‘full body check’ with the dermatologist at 2:30. He’s supposed to come by and pick me up, first. I want to be with him for that. I do expect the doctor to find a lot of spots she’ll need to biopsy.
My cousin’s surgery went much better than expected. The surgeon removed an enormous amount of scar tissue and said the opening to her stomach is now normal size. If she doesn’t watch her food intake, she could return to the large size she was before. She’d have to stretch her tummy, tho. I’d sure rather her be large than so ill all the time. Thank you for the prayers.
Not much going on or much more to say. Hope this coming week holds nothing but blessings for all God’s children!
Diane Tavegia
Ephesians 5:1 Follow God's example in everything you do, because you are his dear children. 2 Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to him.
3 Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God's people. 4 Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. 5 You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is really an idolater who worships the things of this world. 6 Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the terrible anger of God comes upon all those who disobey him. 7 Don't participate in the things these people do. 8 For though your hearts were once full of darkness, now you are full of light from the Lord, and your behavior should show it! 9 For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. 10 Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, rebuke and expose them. 12 It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret. 13 But when the light shines on them, it becomes clear how evil these things are. 14 And where your light shines, it will expose their evil deeds. This is why it is said, "Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light." 15 So be careful how you live, not as fools but as those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity for doing good in these evil days. 17 Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to understand what the Lord wants you to do. 18 Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, let the Holy Spirit fill and control you. 19 Then you will sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, making music to the Lord in your hearts. 20 And you will always give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
21 And further, you will submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. 22 You wives will submit to your husbands as you do to the Lord. 23 For a husband is the head of his wife as Christ is the head of his body, the church; he gave his life to be her Savior. 24 As the church submits to Christ, so you wives must submit to your husbands in everything. 25 And you husbands must love your wives with the same love Christ showed the church. He gave up his life for her 26 to make her holy and clean, washed by baptism and God's word. 27 He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault. 28 In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. For a man is actually loving himself when he loves his wife. 29 No one hates his own body but lovingly cares for it, just as Christ cares for his body, which is the church. 30 And we are his body. 31 As the Scriptures say, "A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one."
Luke 18:17 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it."
 "In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
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Four Biospies today - 7/30/2007 6:58:45 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Therefore the Lord God said: "Look, I have laid a stone (Jesus Christ) in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; the one who believes will be unshakable.
Isaiah 28:16
Jim had his ‘full body check’ appointment with the Dermatologist today because of the biopsies showing melanoma, in two different stages and two types, from the spots she removed and then re-cut to remove more. She found one very suspicious and three possibly melanoma spots today and removed them plus a lot of surrounding skin so Jim wouldn’t have to come back in for second biopsies in two weeks if they were not ‘normal’. She hoped to get to clear margins on any spots the first time. If those are okay, he’ll have to go back in three months for her to check for new spots. If those are even early melanoma, she’ll go ahead and start taking more off right away.
I’ve either pinched a nerve or pulled something in my neck or shoulder and it’s really causing me problems at night when trying to sleep. My arms keep falling asleep and I have to wake and change my position.
Last night was not good at all. Scooter woke at 3:30 and had to go out. When I brought him back in, he stood by the baby gate for a long time before lying back down. He woke again at 6:00. I didn’t get back to sleep after that and Hailee was about 25 minutes late today.
Anyhow, I took two aspirin and a hot shower for my neck. I think I know how I hurt it. On Friday, I was taking Hailee down for her nap. She holds my hand and walks down the two flights of stairs. She won’t take the stairs like a ‘usual’ 2 year old, but tries to step like an adult. She missed a step, slipped and would have fallen about 4 more steps but I held on tight. That was a quick jerk on my arm from about 30 lbs. The other thing I’m doing is trying to potty train Hailee. She won’t use a potty chair, so I hold her on the toilet. That’s an uncomfortable pose for me and she’s doing a lot of TALKING about going potty like a big girl, but nothing else yet.
The wicked man flees though no one pursues,
but the righteous are as bold as a lion.
Proverbs 28:1
Jim had orientation for his teaching job this morning. He had to be there at 8:00. They were holding it at a middle school not far from our house and on the way to the college. He’d already filled out all his paperwork and hoped to get out in time to go to the college and still make it to the dermatologist by 2:30. She’s in the opposite direction and another 13- 14 miles from us. He’d been quoted the wrong salary for the position. It’s $1,500. 00 a year less than we were told by another person. I guess that doesn’t sound like a lot until you hear how low the salary IS for an assistant teacher. That was his FIRST disappointment of the day.
The orientation ran until almost 1:00 and Jim rushed over to school to do what he needed to get done. He was pretty upset. The Spanish professor didn’t get back to him until Friday night and Friday 5:00 was the latest you could register for a class. His scholarship demands at least 2 classes and he’d only gotten one in by then. He had already looked into taking courses online and using a government grant for math teachers in rural areas. That really works out better, in my opinion, since he’s going to be one of the football coaches. That was his SECOND disappointment and he still had the dermatologist and hoped she’d not need to take any more spots.
I had some great devotionals in my email this morning. Maybe the extra time I had was so I could read them all at once and spend time thinking on the verses and our sermon from yesterday. God is good. One of the songs from yesterday was ‘He Knows My Name’. Wow! Yes He does!
My mother has scheduled her dental surgery for the end of August. We’re trying to work out something. She has to go to Birmingham 2-3 days before the surgery and she’s in Mobile. She’ll have her pre admission tests the day before and then spend one night in the hospital. She has to stay in the area for one week and then go back for a check up. Since she’ll have no teeth and a bone graft in her upper mouth, she’ll have to eat only blended foods. We offered to have her come and stay with us but she won’t because of the cat and dog. We offered to pick her up and bring her to a hotel here so we can visit with her, buy her foods and then drive her back to Birmingham at the end of the week. Since Jim thinks he has a night job, weekends, that means I’d have to go get her. It’s 113 miles to the N.E. outskirts of Birmingham. I would be fine until I got into the city traffic, but the hospital is on the S.W. outskirts. I told her I would pick her up that Saturday and then Jim could take her back the late afternoon before her next visit. She’s concerned, since he’s getting the other job, and is thinking about just staying there all week. She won’t go out without her teeth, tho, and the hotel attached to the hospital wouldn’t bring in food for her, etc. She can be stubborn and doesn’t want to accept help. She doesn’t realize it would be LESS stress for me if I could check on her each day and be near her in case of a need.
I believe it’s rained at least once a day since the end of June. I may be wrong. Sometimes it’s been the middle of the night, but we’d wake to wet roads and glistening grass. I’m thankful for the rain, but it caused horrible problems with the mosquitoes and weeds grow really fast. It’s very hot during the day, and humid, so not great weather for pulling weeds and wayward grass. Erin had done a lot for me when she was here a few months back. It needs to be done again, and soon!
Have you ever felt like you’ve lost someone to death and yet they’re not even ill? Like you’ll never see them again? I feel that way. It’s very sad. I guess that comes with people living so far apart.
When all our enemies heard about this, all the surrounding nations were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God.
Nehemiah 6:16
So, the new child starts tomorrow. She’s a year old and runs all over. She’s really cute. She has two older sisters and she’d never been left until mom went to work three weeks ago. She’s been staying with her Mommy’s good friend in another town, but too far and in the wrong direction. Another of her friends, who goes to church with us, gave her my name and I am so thankful!
As of right now, Jim hasn’t heard from the lady about the night job. We sure need that income. She’d said the company hoped to get that shift up and running by this weekend. I hope he’s chosen. It’s very EASY work, tho horrible hours. It’s 3:30 p.m. until 2:00 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. His job with the school is 8:00 a.m. til 3:30 p.m. each day. Now figure THAT out. I don’t know how he’ll get to work on Friday on time. He’d also have to miss a lot of church. I’m still more than willing to work at Home Depot or anywhere. Maybe the Lord has other plans. Whatever His will, He knows our needs.
"God did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all – will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?" Romans 8:32
Well…. Other than changing sheets and several loads of laundry, I don’t feel like I accomplished much today. I had forgotten to take out meat for supper, so we got some small pizzas for supper. I only ate one piece. I've not lost any more weight as of this morning. Still at 9 lbs.
Trusting the Lord to provide and guide us.....
Diane Tavegia
Psalm 15: 1-5 LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary?
Who may live on your holy hill?
He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart and has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman, who despises a vile man but honors those who fear the LORD, who keeps his oath even when it hurts, who lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken.
~~~
Philippians 2:5-8 In your relationships with one another, have the same attitude of mind Christ Jesus had: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a human being, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death -- even death on a cross!
Luke 22:24 And they began to argue among themselves as to who would be the greatest in the coming Kingdom. 25 Jesus told them, "In this world the kings and great men order their people around, and yet they are called 'friends of the people.' 26 But among you, those who are the greatest should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant. 27 Normally the master sits at the table and is served by his servants. But not here! For I am your servant.
"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 GET IT? Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
< Message edited by dianetavegia -- 7/30/2007 7:05:28 PM >
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Just Exhausted tonight! - 7/31/2007 7:09:18 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid;
do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
It’s been a very different day! The new baby came and so did her two older sisters. They played the WII for a few minutes and checked out all the toys but were disappointed that there were no kids out in our neighborhood. At 90° and 80% humidity, not many people come out except to get right in their cars, and those are in their garages.
I’d be lying if I said today was easy. It was not. Having kids of all different ages is much harder than having them all the same age or near in age. I know we really need the income! I don’t know how I did 7 kids a day a few years back. Oh, they were not all here at once. Some came early and left early and four came after school. Still, it seemed easier. Maybe it’s just because I’m soooooo tired right now and we have so much going on in our lives.
We colored, read books and watched t.v. The kids played the WII, trains, dolls and a bit of anything they could find. Hailee LOVED having the company and says the new baby is HER baby. She climbed up in a kitchen chair while I was rinsing off a spoon and proceeded to feed the baby. It was very cute and very messy, but priceless.
The new baby is right at the age where you have to watch her constantly. She can sure move fast! She runs and she’s turns one this week! She sleeps a lot, too. That gave me a bit of time to do some laundry and other stuff. I’ll have to work Nick’s school work around naps or we’ll never get it completed.
Speaking of that, Nick and I are going to start his schooling tomorrow. The local schools are going to begin on August 9th, but I decided to begin August 1st. Last year we began the end of July. I have to mail in my ‘Intent to Home School’ form this week. Jim got me some stamps today. I have a few bills that have to be mailed as well.
"For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." 2 Corinthians 5:21
I didn’t sleep well last night, again! I had trouble falling asleep and then the dog made a noise at 3:30, waking me. He must have bumped his collar, because it’s his tag that alerts me when he needs to go outside. He woke at 4:00 tho and I put him out, brought him back in and then slept til about 5:45! I did TRY to go back to sleep, but maybe it was the new child coming and not knowing what time they’d arrive that kept me alert. I sure do hope I can sleep tonight!
I had put a pork roast in my slow cooker about 10:00 so it was ready at suppertime. We had that, asparagus and fruit. I’m ‘stuck’ in my weight loss, right now, but I’m back to what I was before all the stress and overeating of the last months. In fact, I checked a calendar that I’d started a while back and see that I’m almost 3 lbs less than then. I’d gained 7 lbs and not 10 lbs. Another 15 lbs would be wonderful but I’d settle for 11. I like odd numbers such as 139 lbs instead of 140 lbs. Funny, huh? It sounds a lot thinner to me.
Jim starts helping with two a days at the high school tomorrow. He and the head football coach will help there, to learn the plays so they can train their middle school boys. He spent a few hours with the head coach this morning. He also starts work next Monday morning. I sure wish it paid enough that he didn’t need to work a second job. He’s looking forward to football and baseball and he really liked the coach. Football practice is Mon. – Wed. with a game on Thursday. There are only 5 games in their season.
So, the night factory job is still ‘in the works’ and won’t start this weekend. No one has been hired and nothing is scheduled yet. The woman who interviewed him has no idea what is going on. She doesn’t get paid until the people get hired and start working. You can be sure she’s hoping it’s soon, too.
Because of the red clay, I’ve been trying to bathe Scooter every few nights. He splashed me tonight by shaking before I could get the towel around him. What a wet mess! Then he grabs the towel and runs down the hall. Silly horse, I mean, dog! He likes his bath. He’ll jump right in the tub if I tap the tub with my hand. I use our big Jacuzzi tub. We never use it so it’s getting SOME use. Jim put a long hosed sprayer on it for me to make it easier. Before, I was using a pitcher and pouring water over the dog. This is MUCH easier and MUCH quicker!
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
There’s a CUBS game on tonight. I doubt I make it through the first few innings. I can’t believe how tired I am! I keep thinking I’m forgetting a child somewhere who needs something. Even during supper, I almost jumped up to check on a baby that had just left. Can’t seem to unwind and stop being alert.
Well, I’m too beat to even think of anything interesting to tell you. Hope you’ve had a lovely day.
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
No one will be able to stand their ground against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as, I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you. Joshua 1:5
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10
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Another sleepless night. - 8/1/2007 9:29:41 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 "In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." Proverbs 16:9
ACK! Another horrible night! I finally fell asleep around 11:30, woke at 2:00 and again at 4:30 but got back to sleep. The dog woke me at 5:00 to go outside. I didn’t get back to sleep after that. I awoke with a lot of pain from stress. My jaw is snapping shut, too. My teeth ache from me clenching them so hard. I have just about met my stress limit. I need REST, emotional and physical!
Thursday and Friday I’m only supposed to have Hailee and the baby. That’ll be a lot easier because the baby sleeps a lot and Hailee takes one long nap. I just have to keep baby gates up all over to keep the small one safe. She’s too smart for me, tho. I propped one instead of locking it in place so she got down to crawl and moved it aside, crawled through it and put it back! I watched her in shock. She is JUST turning one tomorrow. Anyhow, the girls think they’ll be here. Not sure.
Next week I might have all four girls Mon and Tuesday but one child starts school on Wednesday. The other doesn’t start until the following Monday. I’ll just have to be prepared and play it by ear.
Today was our first day of school. I was so exhausted that I am glad I had lots of review work already printed out. Nick and I did that and he looked over his other books to see what the year holds. I let him choose what else he would do today. He loves History and Science. He always finishes those first each year. We also looked at our spelling words for the year. I got those off of the internet, thanks to a very sweet lady.
 "He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers that water the earth." Psalms 72:6
When Jim took my mother’s things down to her earlier this summer, he forgot to take her a seat back that massages. It’s been out in the garage, still in the box. He got it for me today and I’ve been using it. It really hurts in one spot, but seems to be helping. I just pray I’m relaxed enough to sleep tonight! I don’t know how I can go much longer without some sleep.
Jim was already sunburned on his face and neck when he came home at lunch time. He turns dark brown, tho. One of his medicines causes him to tan well. It looks so handsome with all that white hair.
Jim’s birthday is 3 weeks away. Actually, 20 days. He’s really upset about turning 60. He’s outlived almost all of his relatives, tho. Most died very young. Both of his parents died very young.
Well, I'm just exhausted and am heading to bed now. Sure hope I can sleep!
God bless YOU and give you REST!
Diane Tavegia
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" Matthew 11:28
So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of His call. May He give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do. Then the name of our Lord Jesus will be honored because of the way you live, and you will be honored along with Him. This is all made possible because of the grace of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12
Who among you has the fear of the Lord, giving ear to the voice of his servant who has been walking in the dark and has no light? Let him put his faith in the name of the Lord, looking to his God for support. See, all you who make a fire, arming yourselves with burning branches: go in the flame of your fire, and among the branches you have put a light to. This will you have from my hand, you will make your bed in sorrow. Isaiah 50:10-11
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Finally slept last night. - 8/2/2007 9:00:11 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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"Being therefore lifted high by and to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promised [blessing which is the] Holy Spirit, He has made this outpouring which you yourselves both see and hear." Acts 2:33
Well, I slept! I was fast asleep just after 10:00 and woke at 6:50. Oh, I woke several times during the night. Once must have been 2 hours after lying down, but I felt so much better and didn’t look at the clock. I woke again, at 1:45, and got right back to sleep. Jim woke me at 4:30. He was sneezing horribly, had his headphones on and jazz playing. I went to the bathroom and got right back to sleep. It’s going to take a few nights of good sleep for me to get back to myself. I’ll also take naps on Saturday and Sunday, right after lunch time, so I can get to sleep at a decent time those nights. Whew!
When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?
Psalm 56:3-4
I had all four girls again today and will, Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday through Friday, of next week, will be 3 girls. The four year old who is almost 5, will be starting school. Hailee won’t be here on Friday. Mom’s car is in the shop and the car she borrowed had a real problem tonight while she was heading home. She isn’t coming tomorrow.
Nick and I started schooling yesterday. He worked on some Spanish, went over the whole years spelling words, read a story in his literature, did math review and then read some World History. He’s got Latin study mixed in with his vocabulary and World History. I didn’t take Latin, but Jim did. Our only problem is pronunciation in Spanish. I took five years of French in high school and two classes of French in college. I can attempt to sound out the Spanish words, but hear a French lilt to them. I’m sure that’s wrong! Now I need to find an online pronunciation tool. I have Babel Fish for translations, but can’t find a free audible pronunciation tool. Any ideas? Oh, I can ask Lori and Pedro, but there are SO MANY words every day! A web search didn’t bring up any. We have a problem. Nick was reading Life Sciences today and noticed the subject changed quickly. The book is missing 80 pages. OUCH. I’d bought them off Ebay, but from someone here in town. I checked Ebay and found the family has another exact book for sale so I wrote and asked if they’d replace it. Hope so. If not, maybe they’ll sell me the other for less money. That’s one book that has to be thrown away. Wish I’d checked it more carefully when we got it or had Jim flip through. It was ‘cash at the Post Office’ type pick up.
Jim left before 8:00 a.m. again today for football. He was really late getting in last night. I called him about 6:15 and as soon as he answered, I could hear the kids on the field. I teased him about running off with a cheerleader and then told him Nick and I would go ahead and eat. That was fine with him. Thankfully, we didn’t need to be at church last night. There was a meeting for youth, but the youth workers didn’t have to go.
During the lunch break, Jim is going over to Wal-Mart.com to put in his application for the weekend shifts. It’s not very far from here, but I don’t know what openings they have. The local website is messed up.
Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done,
so none of us can boast about it. Ephesians 2:9
Next Wednesday starts our Youth program again. I sure hope Jim can be home on Wednesdays in time for me to get to church on time! I’d rather not have to beg for rides and put people out.
Jim came in at lunch and ate quickly so he could run and put in his application. He misunderstood me and went to the store instead of the warehouse. I think he was a bit put out with me, but I was very clear when I told him what the woman had said and where to go. I think he was preoccupied and didn’t hear all I said. Anyhow, he’ll have to go there later. He was out of time.
I got a survey check in the mail today and FedEx brought a new sandwich on pita bread for me to try and give my opinion on. It was very good and quite easy to prepare. Because of my diet, I let Nick eat it. I just tried it. I get a lot of trial type things through the surveys I do. I’m also averaging about $60.00 a month in cash.
Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit"; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that." But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
James 4:13-16
God bless!
Diane Tavegia
Psalm 37: 1 Don't worry about the wicked. Don't envy those who do wrong. 2 For like grass, they soon fade away. Like springtime flowers, they soon wither. 3 Trust in the LORD and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. 4 Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desires. 5 Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you. 6 He will make your innocence as clear as the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.
7 Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes. 8 Stop your anger! Turn from your rage! Do not envy others it only leads to harm. 9 For the wicked will be destroyed, but those who trust in the LORD will possess the land. 10 In a little while, the wicked will disappear. Though you look for them, they will be gone. 11 Those who are gentle and lowly will possess the land; they will live in prosperous security. 12 The wicked plot against the godly; they snarl at them in defiance. 13 But the Lord just laughs, for he sees their day of judgment coming. 14 The wicked draw their swords and string their bows to kill the poor and the oppressed, to slaughter those who do right. 15 But they will be stabbed through the heart with their own swords, and their bows will be broken. 16 It is better to be godly and have little than to be evil and possess much. 17 For the strength of the wicked will be shattered, but the LORD takes care of the godly. 18 Day by day the LORD takes care of the innocent, and they will receive a reward that lasts forever. 19 They will survive through hard times; even in famine they will have more than enough.
And He [Jesus] said to them, "Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses" Luke 12:15
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Ah! Friday at last! - 8/3/2007 6:57:44 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3 Ah, Friday!
I’m so glad Friday is finally here. It’s been a very long week. Today went very smoothly, all around, tho.
I slept from about 11:00 til 6:50 last night, but woke about 5 times for just a minute here and there. Oh I hope I can get to sleep and sleep all night! You can be sure I plan on napping both Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Don’t call me before 4:00 either day! Please!
Nick and I got to his school work at 10:00 again and it went well. We’re still reviewing math, but all the other subjects are fresh material. I have not yet found the replacement BJU 7th Grade Life Sciences book. I found a few even OLDER books here and elsewhere, but prefer not to go almost 20 years back just to save money. The newest edition is $45.00.
So, Jim had football again today and the booster club has been making lunch and supper for everyone. He’s not stayed. They have a special meal tonight and insisted. He looks so handsome in his Temple Football shirt. I don’t think they have football practice this weekend.
Speaking of Jim, he’s pretty sore. Not only from showing the boys how to snap a ball or hold it for punting, but he got ‘blocked’ by a high school kid who ‘went out for a pass’ and didn’t look where he was headed. Jim was facing the other way but the kid grabbed him when he hit him and neither of them fell. Poor kid was pretty upset. They know Jim’s age. Anyhow, Jim was fine. The ‘hit’ was right where the doctor took off the two spots on his shoulder, but they look fine.
Nick’s having a boy from church come over on Saturday and stay through supper time. He’s a good friend and nice young man from a lovely family. He and Nick have been good friends since they were little kids. They’re both pretty excited because they’ve now moved up into YOUTH GROUP and will have breakfast at church each week. The kids have time for some games, visiting and eating before Sunday School begins because we start 15 minutes earlier than the other classes. Nick is so excited about tomorrow and Sunday that he can hardly stand it. He showered before 6:00 p.m. and he and his friend are playing the same PS2 games (in their separate homes) over the phone.
 Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in your midst? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy that person; for God's temple is sacred, and you together are that temple. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17
We didn’t get a call from the dermatologist this week. That’s usually GOOD news. I will call her Monday, just in case. Jim had four spots removed and biopsied this past Monday. Generally they call us two full days after with the news. He has an appointment in 3 months, every 3 months, for a skin check. He’ll be checked every three months for the rest of his life since he had the really bad type of melanoma. I feel peace about these four spots and I will keep an eye on his back and areas he can’t easily see for anything ‘new’. There’s one dark spot, but doctor saw it and didn’t remark. It’s very tiny, but dark gray. If it starts to enlarge or change at all, you can be sure I’ll get him over right away. It’s only about 5 inches from where the bad melanoma was.
We’ll have insurance on October 1st. I need to make appointments for both of us for the dentist. Nick just had a check up and cleaning. He has nice teeth. Thankfully, the dentist doesn’t think he’ll ever need braces. That’s a real praise. I never had or needed braces, but Jim has a tooth out of place. It’s not noticeable unless he smiles a huge smile. It’s only a little out of place. Jim has a broken tooth that’s really bothering him and I tend to have a lot of dental problems. Mine is probably from drinking the wrong things as a child. Truthfully, I don’t remember what we drank as young kids. I assume it was Kool-Aid. Yep! Believe it or not, Kool-Aid is older than me or my mother. It was invented the year my father was born, 1927.
Monday I have only Hailee. Tuesday I’ll have all four girls. Wednesday, one of the girls starts Pre-K, so I’ll have one less girl the rest of the week. The next week and from then on, except when there’s no school, I’ll only have the two little ones, ages 1 and 2. The one year old sleeps a LOT. She does have to be fed much of the time. Today she had soup for toddlers. I heated and drained it so she could feed herself. She made a mess but really enjoyed her meal. Hailee naps for a full two hour nap each morning. I am thankful for the income and the extra these two weeks before school starts.
Well I am already sleepy! Monk is on tonight, and we enjoy that. I don’t like Psych. Too silly, but I will probably watch it. I just have to make sure I don’t start watching the reruns of HOUSE or I’ll keep myself awake.
Have a lovely weekend and please take a minute to read the verses I felt led to share today. God bless!
Diane Tavegia
Acts 3:6-8 "But Peter said, Silver and gold (money) I do not have; but what I do have, that I give to you: in [the use of] the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk! Then he took hold of the man's right hand with a firm grip and raised him up. And at once his feet and ankle bones became strong and steady, And leaping forth he stood and began to walk, and he went into the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God."
Luke 4:4 But Jesus answered him, saying, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.'"
Luke 10:19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Hebrews 4:1 God's promise of entering his place of rest still stands, so we ought to tremble with fear that some of you might fail to get there. 2 For this Good News that God has prepared a place of rest has been announced to us just as it was to them. But it did them no good because they didn't believe what God told them. 3 For only we who believe can enter his place of rest. As for those who didn't believe, God said, "In my anger I made a vow: 'They will never enter my place of rest,'" even though his place of rest has been ready since he made the world. 4 We know it is ready because the Scriptures mention the seventh day, saying, "On the seventh day God rested from all his work." 5 But in the other passage God said, "They will never enter my place of rest." 6 So God's rest is there for people to enter. But those who formerly heard the Good News failed to enter because they disobeyed God. 7 So God set another time for entering his place of rest, and that time is today. God announced this through David a long time later in the words already quoted: "Today you must listen to his voice. Don't harden your hearts against him." 8 This new place of rest was not the land of Canaan, where Joshua led them. If it had been, God would not have spoken later about another day of rest. 9 So there is a special rest still waiting for the people of God. 10 For all who enter into God's rest will find rest from their labors, just as God rested after creating the world.
11 Let us do our best to enter that place of rest. For anyone who disobeys God, as the people of Israel did, will fall. 12 For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are. 13 Nothing in all creation can hide from him. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes. This is the God to whom we must explain all that we have done. 14 That is why we have a great High Priest who has gone to heaven, Jesus the Son of God. Let us cling to him and never stop trusting him. 15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same temptations we do, yet he did not sin. 16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it.
 "In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
< Message edited by dianetavegia -- 8/3/2007 7:13:30 PM >
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Saturday in Georgia - 8/4/2007 7:16:48 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 Sleep! Wonderful Sleep! Are you having a nice weekend so far? We are.
Jim and I got to bed last night right after MONK went off and I was asleep halfway through Psych. I did wake once because of a sound, but was right back asleep. I slept until 7:30, woke and visited with Jim a little while but we both went back to sleep. Nick came into our room at 9:10. He had a friend coming over to play around 10:00. I got up but left Jim sleeping. I also took an hour nap today. I’d planned to be asleep by 2:00 and sleep til 4:00 so I could start supper but things didn’t work out that way. I’ll be sure to get a good nap on Sunday, tho, to be prepared for this coming week.
Nick’s friend arrived a little late. They live only a few miles from us, but it takes a long time to get there because it’s all country roads. Maybe there’s a faster way, but I don’t know it. Anyhow, they played so quietly that you’d never have known pre-teens were here. They came out once in a while for more Gatorade or chips, lunch or the bathroom. They were playing ‘The Simpsons’ on PS2. I could hear them laugh once in a while and they both have those ‘young men’ voices so there was a low but deep hum coming down the hall. Nick had a great time. He really likes this kid and so do we. Like I said yesterday, Nick and he have been friends since they were little things. I believe it was before 1st grade. We’ve been at this church since Nick was 5. I seem to remember them joining AFTER us, but I might be wrong. Many people have been born and raised in the church.
So, once we got up, we had some chores to get done. Jim was at football all day and into the evening each night this week so things we usually get done, were not done. We were out of bread, almost out of milk and had a number of other things we needed. We had to pick up the cleaning and some allergy eye drops at CVS and had a bill due the middle of next week that we hand deliver to the next town. Last time I mailed it, it took 21 days to go 12 miles. Thankfully I noticed on the bank website that it hadn’t been deposited and called to see if it had been received. Don’t want any late mortgage payments! Once I took it TOO early and they put it toward the principal instead of the monthly payment. Now we just hand deliver it instead. Jim did that while I put the groceries away.
Jon called last night. This time of year he gets off early some Friday nights. His job calls for certain ‘jobs’ to last a certain number of hours. If they complete a job and there’s no shift following his, they do not begin another run. Last night he was off by 8:00. He had time to talk to me and still do yard work. Anyhow, he and Mary are looking at a gorgeous new home about 5 miles closer to us in an upscale neighborhood created to look like an old neighborhood. All the homes are very different style capes with big porches, detached garages and old looking street lights. There are sidewalks and established shrubs. They’re GORGEOUS and HUGE homes. I’d love to have any of them. The house Jon likes best is twice as big as mine and has a stream running through the back of the property. It’s on just under an acre. It’s the same distance to their work and is in the same school district.
We cooked out tonight. We had grilled chicken, baked potatoes and salad. We like our salads to have a lot of ‘stuff’. I didn’t have any olives or mushrooms, but did have peppers, tomatoes, carrots, broccoli and more. Yum! I’ve got a roast to put in the slow cooker for after church tomorrow. By pre-planning, I can still cook, eat, clean up and sneak in a long Sunday afternoon nap.
It’s sooooo hot here, but Jim doesn’t mind grilling out. It was 97° at suppertime but the heat index was (feels like) 100°! At least the humidity is only 34%. It’s nice inside, tho. I haven’t had to run the window unit in the t.v. room since I’ve had the central air on day and night. We do keep our ceiling fans on.
Tomorrow is promotion Sunday. My girls will still be in the same class as I, but they’ll now be the 8th graders. A new class of girls is coming up. Nick said there are usually 3 or so girls each week. That’s a pretty low number. Maybe I can make some contacts and interest the non attenders in class because of the way we do things. Some pancakes and pool, a video and then the lesson might just intrigue them. We’ll see. I’ll sure miss those 8th graders who are moving up! What wonderful Christian ladies they are! What deep and thought provoking questions and remarks they always shared!
I’m hoping Mary and Jon have off Labor Day so we can have another family cook-out. We had so much fun on the 4th of July. Our family loves to laugh. We don’t fuss and fight at our gatherings, like many families do. Jon is the funniest person alive. His Dad comes close. but doesn’t relax and let go often enough. Jon can go on for hours. When he gets started, his dad joins in. Anyhow, I’ll go ahead and plan on it when I do my shopping list. Must not forget watermelon! I’ll save up some calories and exercise so I can eat well that day. Of course, most of the stuff I cook is all healthy or low in calories anyhow. BBQ Chicken, fresh veggies, potato salad, baked potatoes, corn on the cob….. YUM!
Hope you’re already planning to be in Sunday School and church tomorrow. Parents do a horrible disservice to their children by not raising them in church. You cannot ‘play’ Christian and attend a few times a year, live like the rest of the world the other days of the week, cussing, fighting, mistreating each other, cheating on a spouse and thinking no one knows, lying, etc. Children see and children hear. Children learn how to live from their parents and grandparents. If Jesus Christ is not the most important person in your life, you child learns that Jesus isn’t very important. God isn’t important. Church doesn’t matter. Then that child turns into a teen you cannot control and you resort to church, expecting a few weeks in ‘God’s house’ to fix that child that you’ve neglected to raise according to God’s Holy Word. It’s not going to work. Please, get those kids in church! Teach them God’s Word! LIVE God’s Word. Let them see Jesus in you. Please.
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
Proverbs 6:20 My son, keep your father's commands and do not forsake your mother's teaching. 21 Bind them upon your heart forever; fasten them around your neck. 22 When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you. 23 For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way to life, 24 keeping you from the immoral woman, from the smooth tongue of the wayward wife.
Deuteronomy 6:4 "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one! 5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. 6 "And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
More from Proverbs…..
Grandchildren are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.
To have a fool for a son brings grief; there is no joy for the father of a fool.
A foolish son brings grief to his father and bitterness to the one who bore him.
A wicked man listens to evil lips; a liar pays attention to a malicious tongue.
Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife.
A foolish son is his father's ruin, and a quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping.
"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968
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Lovely Sunday here - 8/5/2007 7:24:22 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8
Today was promotion Sunday. I have a lot of girls on role and a good number were present today. I’ll call those who were not present later in the week and invite them for next week. Nick and his friends moved up. There was a good turnout there, too.
Bro. Jon preached today and did a good job. It was quite inspiring. Also, our music was really good. Our Senior Pastor is on a cross country trip with a friend on his motorcycle. Bro. Ben had chosen some old hymns for us to sing and our choir loft was packed. They did a special that was a bunch of old hymns run together. A younger friend of mine did a solo that was exceptional. All around, a great day in the Lord’s House.
I’d started a big roast and it was ready as soon as we got home. We had lots of left-overs so I made beef BBQ for supper with corn on the cob. That was the best corn we’d had this season. We love corn on the cob.
We’re starting a new Sunday School series for next week. The 7th and 8th graders will spend two months of Sundays learning how to share their faith. Next Sunday is on The Roman Road. That’s how I was first taught to share Jesus with others, so I’m very excited to see that being taught. There’s daily ‘work’ or ‘questions’ in their books.
I got my two hour nap in early today. I was asleep by 1:20 and slept until after 3:15. I was up way too late last night, watching t.v. I have a bad habit of watching t.v. in bed, til after midnight. It’s the only quiet time of my day, tho.
Monday is going to be an easy day here. I have only Hailee and she always sleeps a lot after a busy weekend of visiting relatives and trips to the lake. I’ll get a lot done on Monday.
"But seek first of all His kingdom and His righteousness, and then all these things taken together will be given you besides." Matthew 6:33
Jim starts at the middle school tomorrow. He’s got a staff meeting at 8:30. I’m not sure what time he’ll be out, but football practice starts for the younger kids. He thinks it’ll be 6:30 each night before they finish. I was hoping it would be earlier so Wednesday nights wouldn’t call for me to beg a ride. I can’t take him and keep the car most days because of having two babies coming at a little after 7:00.
It’s really hot here. Our heat index was well over 100°. Boy I am so thankful for central. I feel really sorry for those folk who don’t have any air here, this time of year. It’s too hot for the dog to be outside long, and our backyard is over ½ shaded. It’s stifling and humid!
I called mother and left her a message. I also called our grandson to talk to him but they weren’t home. Jack starts school this year. I’m not sure when, tho. We start earlier than most of the country. It’s amazing how quickly the kids are growing up.
The site I use to store my images has messed up my paid account when I upgraded to more storage. Because of that, and until someone reads my email, I’ll have to use some older images. Sorry about that.
Well, have a lovely evening and a great week. I hope you’ll take a minute to read the verses I’ve chosen to share today. I did indent them slightly differently so certain verses would stand out to anyone who is just glancing at the verses.
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
John 16:19 Now Jesus knew that they desired to ask Him, and He said to them, "Are you inquiring among yourselves about what I said, 'A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me'? 20 Most assuredly, I say to you that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; and you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy. 21 A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come; but as soon as she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. 22 Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.
23 And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. 24 Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. 25 "These things I have spoken to you in figurative language; but the time is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but I will tell you plainly about the Father.
26 In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I shall pray the Father for you; 27 for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from God.
28 I came forth from the Father and have come into the world. Again, I leave the world and go to the Father." 29 His disciples said to Him, "See, now You are speaking plainly, and using no figure of speech! 30 Now we are sure that You know all things, and have no need that anyone should question You. By this we believe that You came forth from God." 31 Jesus answered them, "Do you now believe? 32 Indeed the hour is coming, yes, has now come, that you will be scattered, each to his own, and will leave Me alone. And yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me.
33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."
 "In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
< Message edited by dianetavegia -- 8/5/2007 7:41:12 PM >
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Monday stuff - 8/6/2007 7:52:18 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
Today started off really, really early. Jim got up for medicine just after 5:00. I was wide awake by 5:30 and couldn’t get back to sleep. He had to be up at 7:00 so I kept quiet until about 6:30 and then cuddled with him til the clock went off. Makes for a long day.
Today started Jim’s new job at the middle school. The first few days are preparation days. The students don’t return until Thursday. He also has practice at the high school this afternoon. It’s over 100° on our indoor/ outdoor thermometer but that’s over the central air unit. It’s 95° with a heat index (feels like) 105°
Tuesday Jim has to attend a training seminar in the next town. The directions said ‘at the old high school gym’. Now were IS that? Hopefully he’s gotten better directions by now.
Jim broke a tooth in half a few months ago. He’s tried to doctor it and ignore it until we get insurance but it’s really hurting now. The cheapest ‘fix’ I can find is the VA. They’ll pull it for $202.00, paid at the time of service. That’s really going to kill our budget. Also, this is the month we have to pay car tag and taxes. I think that’s what kept me awake this morning. I was trying to figure out how to come up with replacement money. We also have the problem that he waited too late and now will have to either rush over tomorrow or Wednesday or will have to miss school next week. The VA Dental Clinic is only open til 2:00 two days a week and you have to fill out papers in another area before going to the dental clinic. It’s a good drive from here, too. Of course, it really started hurting in the last few days. ** Updated to say a lady called me today and wanted to know what an immediate need was for our family. This came to mind first. She said she woke very early today knowing ‘today was the day’ that she was to call me. She and her husband came tonight and brought us the money for Jim’s tooth to be pulled! He doesn’t have to be in to school until 10:00 on Wednesday so he’s going that morning, early. Isn’t it amazing how God works through His children? What a blessing!
“Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and His vast strength. Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics of the Devil. For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens." Ephesians 6:10-12
I got a lot of cleaning done today. It’s very depressing to fight with the red clay dust. It has to be coming in around the windows! Our house is only 8 years old, so think cheap builder windows. Anyhow, I could dust 3 times a day! The return air vents are always coated with a light dusting of the stuff. We change our air filter very often, too. It’s quite overwhelming. It’s as if the first half is dusty before I finish the last half.
I’ve not heard back from the people who host my images. I got overcharged for THIS month and then a glitch me reverted back to the old storage amount, which means I can’t add more images until the ‘husband and wife team’, who own the site check their emails and fix the error. Until then, I’ll have to use old images so as not to direct link. It’s a bit upsetting, to tell the truth, but other than this, I’ve had nothing but praises for the host site. I DO love these mostly black and white photos. Don’t you?
Tomorrow will be hectic. I’ll have four girls and Nick’s schooling to do. The older girls get bored very easily, even with all the toys, dozens of movies, the Wii and loads of books to read. It’s a long day for them, I know. Ten hours in some one else’s home can’t be much fun. The little bitty ones are content to just play or watch Dora. Wednesday – Friday should be 3 girls and then I have 2 until I can find more to keep. I need more just to supplement what Jim will bring home. It’s very scary, but today proves God is faithful and keeps His promises to provide for our needs.
The air quality in Atlanta is dangerous. The grass pollen is active, too. I seem to really react to grass pollen more than other types. I’ve taken Sudaphed for a week now. I need to take it regularly for a few days, tho, to clear up my sinus headache and stuffiness.
I’m trying to convince Jim that he needs to eat hot lunch each day at school. He’s not able to skip meals and a simple sandwich won’t hold him. The lunches are $12.00 a week. I know that doesn’t sound like a lot, but it is. However, since he’s going to be going to football practice afterwards, he needs to have a good meal. There’s quite a bit to choose from.
I hope you’ll take a minute to read the Bible verses I’ve chosen to share today. The Lord uses His Word to guide me each day and speaks to many needs in our lives. It amazes me how some days I’ll have a specific need and will receive 12 devotionals that all have verses that ‘match’ each other AND that need. Let God speak to you through His Word!
Have a lovely evening with your family or friends and
God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
Proverbs 6:23 "For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching is light; and reproofs for discipline are the way of life."
John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
1 John 3:4-10 Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him.
Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. He who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work. No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God. This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love his brother.
Romans 1:21-23 “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four footed beasts, and creeping things.”
"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
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It's too hot! - 8/7/2007 5:53:31 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23
Boy did I have strange dreams last night! It seemed like hours and hours of spider dreams! I must have had a hair blowing across my face or something. I’d left the ceiling fan on high. I dreamed I was a counselor at a summer camp for teenaged girls and that one girl was bitten by a Brown Recluse Spider and died within minutes. We were searching the camp, looking for more spiders. I found some giant Wolf Spiders and Black Widows. Then I found a Brown Recluse and he got away. I woke up and went right back to sleep and dreamed spiders were in my bed, on my foot and face. Shiver…….. ugh!
Today turned out to be pretty quiet. The older girls went to Grandma’s house instead of coming here. Grandma has a big house, computers with games loaded on them and an in-ground swimming pool. Finally I get a chance to get to know the baby without ‘helpers’. We need to get on our own schedule and she needs to learn she can rely on me to meet all her needs and keep her safe. It went well.
With our heat wave, I really have to keep Scooter in most of the day. The heat index for Wednesday is expected to top 110°. Thursday and Friday are to be even hotter! Our humidity is also high. It got so hot yesterday and today that I’ve had to turn on the window unit in our television room. The central air wasn’t enough to cool that room and not over cool the rest of the house. My central air unit ran almost constantly today.
Youth group starts back next week. Boy the summer went quickly. I’m not sure what we’ll be doing those first weeks. I’m sure we’ll know in plenty of time to be prepared. Maybe we’ll have some concerts or guest speakers. I’ll have to figure out transportation. If Jim’s at football practice, we will have to call a neighbor and catch a ride.
Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! Isaiah 30:18
Because I expected the older girls, too, I was up and showered before Jim today. I sure could have used a nap. I did sleep from 11:00 p.m. til 6:30 a.m. but Scooter woke me at 1:30 and 5:30 to go outside. He drank lots and lots of water last night because of the heat. That’s another reason to keep him inside. I don’t like having to wake on the nights that I would have slept.
I’ve lost another pound. That has me lower than I’ve been for many years. I still need to lose another 10- 20 lbs. I’m only 5 ½ lbs away from what the doctor had said was my highest ideal weight for my height. I still have that upper arm flab to deal with. I CAN tell a difference, tho. I’ve gotten into my size 10 jeans with no problems. I’d hoped to have lost a lot of weight by Jim’s birthday and I may just make it. I still have 2 weeks to work on it.
I called for the biopsy results on the four spots Jim had removed about 8 days ago. The secretary wouldn’t give them to me but will have the nurse call. The nurse will always give me the results. Jim thought he’d filled out a paper giving me permission to check stuff. I know he gave his permission over the phone. He has to be seen every three months now, for the rest of his life. As of this writing, they didn’t call me back. I would assume that’s good news since the other two times, they called within two full days of removal.
Jim’s just about set to start college. He’s chosen Western Governor’s University for his teaching certificate. It was recommended by some local teachers. They haven’t received his transcript from Central Connecticut yet. We haven’t heard yet what all transfers. The local college wouldn’t accept his 4 English classes or his four years of Latin as his foreign language. A lot has changed since he got out of college in 1969.
Jim had training in Douglasville this afternoon and had open house at the middle school tonight. He did come home for a quick lunch, tho. It seems odd for him to be gone all day after being home all the time. The open house was 4:00 til around 6:00 or 6:30 p.m.
I'm guessing the 'husband and wife team' who run the image site I use is on vacation. I can't imagine they'd not contact me about the mess up. Anyhow, until they do, I have to use old images I guess.
Have a lovely evening and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. 2 Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4 But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. 5 For each one shall bear his own load. 6 Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches. 7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.
John 10:1-5 "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter by the door (Jesus) into the fold of the sheep, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep. To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he puts forth all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. A stranger they simply will not follow, but will flee from him, because they do not know the voice of strangers."
Philippians 2:9-10 “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth.”
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Cancer....... - 8/8/2007 7:04:12 PM
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dianetavegia
Posts: 1610
Joined: 8/23/2005
From: Southern Baptist, Non Calvinist, Pro Life Ga. girl
Status: offline
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But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
2 Timothy 3:14-15
If you saw my prayer request you know that Jim’s doctor called this morning and said 3 out of four of the spots removed are bad. One is basal cell carcinoma and the other two are one degree from being deemed full blown melanoma. I hope you’ll lift him in prayer for healing and our family for protection.
"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us" Romans 8:18
I was awake at 5:30 again today. I sure can’t figure that out. I guess it’ll be even more of a problem when we do our ‘fall back’ for daylight savings time. It’s hard now, but will be awful then. I'd better get it 'fixed'.
Jim took off around 7:00 for the VA to have his tooth pulled. It was really hurting during the night. He didn’t get to sleep until 3:00 a.m. I’m so thankful this is over for him. He’s in a bit of pain, so took some Ibuprofen. The dentist had x-rayed and said it had a very large cavity in it so it would not have been savable anyhow. I don’t like dental problems, and not being able to afford treatment is horrible. Thank the Lord, again, for providing a way.
Nick slept in really late. I’d gone to bed at 9:00 and was asleep right away. I woke at 10:30 and saw him heading to bed. We didn’t start our schooling right on time because of that, but with home schooling, we have that option. In fact, I once read that teenagers do better in the afternoon than early mornings.
It was a heat index of over 90° before 9:00 this morning. Poor Scooter. I left him out for a little while, but he had to spend a lot of the day in a small area of the house. With two babies toddling around, I don’t let him run free. He’s so huge and would knock them over. At least he was cool!
The baby’s daddy has to work Monday, so I’ll have her 5 full days next week. It’s virtually impossible to get stuff done with two little ones running around. That means either it gets done on Saturday or not at all. I generally do all the major wash on Monday. He was late coming tonight. I’m going to guess that he’ll be very late every night now that school is starting. The older girls are in after school programs in the town 15 miles from here. He had picked them up before coming here tonight. That’s going to cause me a big problem on Wednesday nights. I’ll have to ask him if he can come this way first on Wednesday or I’ll have to drop out of our Youth Program. I can’t ask for a ride and also make people late.
Well, we can’t get that discouraged because we’ve had so many bad things happen over the last 5 or 6 years. It’s getting to be ‘normal’ for us. Isn’t that sad? I won’t ask ‘what else’ because God might just show me!
Have a nice evening and God Bless,
Diane Tavegia
1 Corinthians 4:12,-16 "When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer kindly, being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now. I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. I urge you to imitate me.
Ezekiel 22:30 "I looked for someone who might rebuild the wall of righteousness that guards the land. I searched for someone to stand in the gap in the wall so I wouldn't have to destroy the land, but I found no one."
2 Peter 3:3-14 Most importantly, I want to remind you that in the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth and following their own desires. They will say, "What happened to the promise that Jesus is coming again? From before the times of our ancestors, everything has remained the same since the world was first created. "
They deliberately forget that God made the heavens by the word of his command, and he brought the earth out from the water and surrounded it with water. Then he used the water to destroy the ancient world with a mighty flood. And by the same word, the present heavens and earth have been stored up for fire. They are being kept for the Day of Judgment, when ungodly people will be destroyed.
But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and the very elements themselves will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment.
Since everything around us is going to be destroyed like this, what holy and godly lives you should live, looking forward to the day of God and hurrying it along. On that day, he will set the heavens on fire, and the elements will melt away in the flames. But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth he has promised, a world filled with God's righteousness.
And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight.
 "In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Martin Luther King Jr. 1929-1968 Check out my husband’s newly published book at the following link
The Dreamers, By James Tavegia Published by Aim Higher Books
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