Blessings from the BRYANTS

Sweet Surprise!

2009-01-15T09:10:00.005-06:00

This was a sweet suprise from my husband this past Saturday, Jan 10th. What was the occassion you might ask? Well, it was our 20th anniversary of our first date. He was very sneaky and planned it perfectly. I had no clue and I love surprises just the way he did it! Also, he took me to Red Lobster that evening which was where we went to eat on our first date. It was very neat and exciting reminiscing about our first date and all the many dates we have had since then. I love red roses! Oh and by the way, there were 20 roses also. =)

This is a shout out to my wonderful husband -- Thanks so very much! The years have been very good to us and I look forward to many many more to come. I thank the Lord for always keeping HIS hand on us.

To everyone out there - enjoy the day and God Bless!!

Not Again!! Yes it is!

2009-01-14T10:06:00.003-06:00

Good Morning!

Here I am in just a little over a week and I am posting again. Thank you to a new year. Life is taking many different turns for all of us I am sure. This semester will take me and my family for many new ones that is for sure. Let me explain.
This is the last semester of my "baby" girl & her senior year. For all of you at Life Tab, yes believe it or not Kathy is graduating from high school in about 4 months from now. WOW!! When we arrived she was 9 years old. FYI - that is the age that Howie is now. Another WOW!! I am sure that many of those out in blogland have had children grow up, get older and so forth. This is just different but it is fun.

So,we have Kathy with graduation and her next step approaching and then we have Howie not only doing Bible Quizzing but also taking electric guitar lessons. Still yet another WOW!! As you have heard & seen from other fellow bloggers, the quiz team did GREAT on Saturday. I am so proud of all of them. I am amazed again at what the children can and do learn. Let them continue to hide it in their heart.
GO QUIZZERS - ALL OF YOU ARE AWESOME!!!

Now, guitar lessons we are working on becoming as much as a habit and priority as learning those verses. Right now, it is tough and the guitar is almost as big as him but he will work thru it. It is cute to watch him strap it on and start playing what he knows. He is learning to read music at an early age. By the time Kathy finishes with her schooling Howie could well be accomplished and then putting them together to praise & worship. I am expecting great things from them both!!

Well, I have officially written a second post and made it to the rambling stage but wait I can not forget to say this: PRAYER WORKS!!!! Always remember that and also God has everything in HIS CONTROL!!

Have a great day and I will post some pics later.

Until then - enjoy living for the Lord.

Howies' Surprise Kiss

2009-01-06T14:28:00.001-06:00

I just had to post this precious picture.

Happy New Year 2009

2009-01-06T13:14:00.006-06:00

Good Afternoon!!

It is a new year and a very new post. Yes, it has been over a year since I have written ANYTHING. I have commented very few times during that period also.

I am just somewhat in the mood to write a little so I thought I would. So, you might ask what has triggered this writing? So many things have happened in the last year I can not tell it all. Nor would you want to hear it ALL.

Since September of 2008, I have been energized with two words: Bible Quiz.
I am amazed, overwhelmed, excited, impressed and just downright thrilled with this.

Watching and listening to the children do what each of us as adults (not judging at all) can be doing is what I would call, very moving. To hear the Word of God spoken in the home everday is mind numbing at times. Maybe we should let our minds be numbed more often and then we could follow the leading of the Lords' spirit better. Just a thought.

When I hear the littlest, youngest and smallest of them all, quote Gods' word, my heart literally begins to pitter-pat!! It gives a warm feeling all over and reminds me of just what the Word of the Lord means to me.

I am thankful for the what the scriptures have taught throughout my life and I am thankful that as Howie reads and recites these words, he begins to ask questions. There has been many, many more teachable moments. As parents and saints, these are opportunites that you love to happen. It is a joy to explain in detail what the words mean to this little precious one of HIS.

Okay, I feel like a I am rambling now!

To all the children involved with Bible Quizzing --
Keep up the work, you are learning more than you know. You will be able to look back and use these times of studies as a teaching tool for your children and grandchildren.

Kudos goes out to Chris and Christina Isom!!
Bless them Lord as they prepare our children in this endeavor.

Until later, I know I know I hear some of you saying next year or 2, well you will just have to check back and see.

Love to all!!

Howieman Plays and Sings

2008-01-12T21:01:00.003-06:00

Such Good Reading!

2008-01-12T19:38:00.000-06:00

Hello to all my fellow bloggers! I sit here attempting to write a good post, don't tell if not, while Dan is putting pictures together for us all to share. I have read so many blogs lately with such good things and words about the Lord and life in genereal. I have not made too many comments but I have definitely soaked in all words. We went to OKC for one of the last 6 mth check-ups for Howie. All went well! It is always surreal on each visit simply because of all the memories involved. Once again we made it a family visit, Kathy went too! We spend most of the day waiting off and on in the clinic but as I said earlier all was good. We then had the priviledge of having dinner with Jeff & Jeannie Harris. It happened to be the weekend that the Frazier's were making a visit also. So what do you think we did? We just waited around, visited Starbucks and Wal-Mart until they arrived. We all met at Zio's Italian Restaurant. We were all hungry, I thought for a little while there we were going to eat so much bread before the meal that we would just have to pack up the meal and leave. LOL!! The dinner was great simply due to wondeful people, the food was good too. We then headed over to Jeanie & Jeff's apartment and continue to visit. Of course Ken, Jeff and little Howie immediately started playing football on Playstation 3. I have a picture I took with my phone but I am having difficulty getting it to come to my email, I will keep trying. I just looked and Dan did a great job with RockYou and all the pic. I am trying to add different colors and make changes. Bear with me until I find the perfect mix. I have now officially blogged for the year 2008, how does that grab you? HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Inward, Outward and Upward -- that is all I want to be in 2008 - thanks Pastor Elms. I look forward to all God has in store for each of us, but I also look forward to not only watching, but also doing!!!

No Coal for Christmas!

2007-12-25T21:37:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T20:41:00.000-06:00

Good Evening to ALL!!

For all of you - you have just received your greatest Christmas gift ever. Yes, you guessed it - a new post from me with pictures included. Nice!!!!

Today has been a great, casual and peaceful day.

The children were quite surprised at what Santa brought and we were pleased also. Howie has spend most of the day playing with his new PS2 and Kathy with her new Ipod video classic. I really can not tell which one has had more fun and I am glad for that too!

Merry Christmas to all - the gifts were great but you know today was special only because--
He came and He gave to us. Who is this he? Jesus Christ that is, the only name by which we may be saved.

You know so many times, you hear people say they are big enough to take care of themselves. This is such a true statement for this life. But....this life is not all there is. We will not always be here, so by all means we do need help and that help will only come from our Lord Jesus.

Thank you Jesus for your love for us and all mankind. Thank you that YOU are truly the reason for the season. Without you Jesus, there truly is no holiday. I love you Lord!

Have a great relaxing week - I AM!

NEW POST on the WAY!

2007-10-05T05:48:00.000-06:00

I am still very much here. At times, I have so much to say it is hard to even make a comment on the other blogs. I just get overwhelmed at times with ALL these BLOGS!! So much good on them and so much I want to say.

Just maybe this weekend I will take care of that!

Love you all very much and appreciate all of the great words of wisdom and just the way you put "real life" in your blogs!

Have a very great day and know that you are blessed through everything by JESUS!!

Good Evening to ALL!

2007-08-06T21:14:00.000-06:00

I sit here tonight and I finally hit the button to create a new post. I know for some of you if not all you are wondering if you are seeing things -- well, you are!

I just had to put something in here, I was actually tired of seeing my same old blog myself.

Here is a few pics to go with a few words

More to come later, yes, when is that? Who knows, I guess you will just have to check back sometime in the future. Could be tomorrow, could be a week from now or who knows it could be a long time from now. HA!!!

This is Dimitri, our newest addition to the family!!

My Turn!

2007-05-26T20:46:00.000-06:00

Well, it was time for me to post again and I was leaving for a few days so this is perfect. This will definitely cover crowd control, except from someone who seems to think I should post more often, not to mention anyone in particular -- you know who you are! LOL!!!

“A to Z Meme”

A. Available or Single? Definitely married and love it still, soon to be 17 years!

B- Best Friend. Dan--the man--My MAN!

C- Cake or Pie. Definitely cake, chocolate cake (apple pie with vanilla ice cream, definitely second though)

D- Drink of Choice. WATER

E- Essential Item. "THE" Annointing

F- Favorite Color. RED (Fire Engine Red at that!!) I love hot pink too!

G- Gummi Bears or Worms. Bears over worms, they just don't float my boat, definitely never a craving for them.

H- Hometown. Born in Pineville, LA

I- Indulgence. Starbucks Latte with a good friend and just talking.

J- January or February. January, still cold and able to do Letter "I" by a roaring fire!

K- Kids. Two Wonderful Kids -- blessed with a girl and boy -- Kathy and Howie

L- Life is incomplete without… Jesus and relationships (family & friends -- is there anything else worthwhile?)

M- Marriage Date. September 28, 1990

N- Number of Siblings? 3 (2 sisters and 1 brother) my sister and brother are twins

O- Oranges or Apples? Definitely Apples

P- Phobias/Fears. Getting "paranoid" about things too often

Q- Favorite Quote. This is just a cute one I remembered: When all is said and done, more will be said than done.

S- Season(ing). SEASON - WINTER; SEASONING - Tony Chacera

T- Tag Three. Linda Seymour, Jessica Bennett and Kris Prince

U- Unknown Fact About Me. "I can be quiet and listen"

V- Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animals. I like them both and together!!

W- Worst Habit. Talking TOO LOUD!!!

X- X-rays or Ultrasounds. Ultrasound, just last year and all was well and still is!!

Y- Your Favorite Foods. Steak and Potates

Z- Zodiac. Who cares! LOL!!

I am supposed to be packing so I better get to it!

I will see all of you wonderful people either on the way back or when I get back.

Have a great day in Jesus Name!

What a great Mothers' Day!

2007-05-13T21:18:00.000-06:00

Good Evening to all the Mother's that read this blog and of course everyone else!

Today has been a very special, fun and just neat day! I want to say thank you to my special children Kathy Liz and Howie. They definitely surprised me this morning - Dan was in on it too! Some of you mothers may get a kick out of this and also may want some too!!! First of all, I love Starbucks Vanilla Latte - for those who think and/or wonder if I am high maintenance. I am, not only a vanilla latte, but sugar free, fat free with 4 splendas and whipped cream. For all my WW friends, it is ONLY 5 points. LOL!! Oh yea, I was posting so let me continue. Dan got up early and went and got one for me but he told me I could not drink it all -- I did not understand at first but it soon became very clear. He took my coffee and me to our living room and told me to sit and wait. The kids came running in with cards and Dan followed behind with this beautiful mug filled with my Starbucks coffee. I loved it. It was sweet and definitely a surprise. Inside my cards from both of my children were these special cards callled "Mom's call". It actually says this card entitles Mom to an immediate wish without any backtalk, moans, groans or eye-rolling. I loved it. I received 5 cards from each of them. Kathy asked what happens when they ran out, Dan politely reminded her that the supply is never ending. I LOVED IT!

We came home from church, we decided not to fight the crowds. Dan & the kids made my lunch, cleaned the kitchen and I enjoyed the day lounging while they worked. Can it be Mothers' Day everyday???? Tonight we had breakfast - it was wonderful! We were all in the kitchen helping get it ready and it tasted delicious. No one is going to bed tonight with an empty stomach, get the picture.

Bro. Elms talked about prayer and finding our own time with the Lord everyday. What a great pastor. I so appreciate his love for his flock.

Well, one more thing I will have to say. I have a friend that sent me a text message and would you believe, I could not read it. All I can say, thank goodness for dictionaries.

Today was great simply due to God's mercy, grace and great love!

Check out the new family picture taken today to the right!

Shocker to SOME but not ALL!

2007-05-07T19:40:00.000-06:00

Here I sit, a confession is on the way, a business & part-time computer teacher and I am still in the baby stages of trying to figure all of this blog world out. Sis. Mandy & I spent a good few minutes trying to post my picture on the blog so it will show up when I make my comments. Well....as you can tell from my comments, it did not work. I ran into Bro. Andrew, who Sis. Mandy said could help me, and he said that all the html did not have to be copied, it could stop at the jpg. Well........I tried that and it even told me I was trying to make an illegal something or another. Laughter just came all over me and now here I am making a post. Not only making a post but making one within a week of the other. Ooooooo.....I must be getting that disease called "bloggermania." Funny thing is, I am feeling mighty fine!!! LOL!!!

I know that I will soon have this conquered. I will get my photo on here, I will get my links on the front page and even get the youtube to show some of my videos that I want the entire mass world of blogville to see.

I enjoy reading the blogs of my fellow friends because I was taught a lonnnnnnggggg time ago, that you should learn something new everyday. The blogs will definitely do it for you.

Have you ever wondered about what we say when people ask how has your day been? We say it has been good almost automatically. Then later one might think, what has made this day good opposed to other days that we say are bad? Follow me here. I am learning (I know I can be a slow learner at times) that sometimes we have trained, I did say we, ourselves to answer without thinking. Hmmmmmm! Now how can that be used in our walk with the Lord?

Without thinking?
When a problem arises - God can take care of it - He can do it! I was so moved yesterday morning when I saw Sis. Barbara begin to worship & praise God through the midst of adversity. WOW!! How can I ever sit still and not be thankful and show God through my actions.
Without thinking?
I will worship HIM with all my heart, all my soul and all that I have at any given time.
Without thinking?
I will remember to write the end of the story the way God intended me to.
Without thinking?
I will tell others by my actions and words , He's done so much for me, I can not tell it all, I can not tell it all, I can not tell it all!! (I can hear the song as I type - Glory to God!)
Without thinking?
I will take another drink of the Holy Ghost to keep me renewed and in my right mind!

Of course, I am not saying to give up thinking all together -- but just to start to ponder what we do without thinking.

I hope that makes sense and it blesses ALL!

Have a great evening and know that God is GOOD all the time!

Good Morning to ALL!

2007-05-02T04:03:00.000-06:00

I NEED RECEPTION -- is the reception coming in clear???
I think it is coming, why yes there it is! ENJOY!

What can I say? I knew it was coming, at least that last comment, it keeps me on my toes and in my blog. Thanks! I think, hehehe!
I made a post and even made a new rockyou picture widget on Monday night and then I hit something on the computer and lost it all. It was frustrating and then I started laughing and then guess what. I went to bed. LOL!

So here I am making a post.

There is so much going on in so many different directions - can I get a witness from anyone out there in blogland? I am sure I can. I am definitely thankful for the word "involvement". It is so rewarding to be involved, I do love it. There is so much to tell at times, that I don't even know where to start.

It was so good to see all the visitors at Friendship Sunday and then to see how everyone interacted with each other -- it truly was a wonderful feeling from the get go.
SUCCESS ALL THE WAY!! I loved watching the kids on the bounces but as it has been said JUMP ROPING had the attention of all. It was incredible! We should definitely do it more often. It is amazing that the things we love to do as kids and we think we out grow it when we become adults, we want to do them again. Bring on the fun - let us be children again at heart. That reminds me of a great scripture which makes it all so true:

"Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of SUCH IS THE KINGDOM OF GOD" - to have a heart and faith and even fun like a child. We had a lot of that this weekend. Thanks Life Tabernacle family for such a great time even in the midst of adversity.

I have so enjoyed watching "our children" at church desire to have the Lord in their lives, the videos of their singing and preaching has made the realization of a child's heart become even more clear. I love to listen, I am not quick enough with the camera yet, to Howie go through the house and sing. It is very moving to hear him sing praises just out of the blue. Just the way the Lord wants it, worship and praise for HIM at all times. A child like love and faith!

Well.......I know I have touched on a lot of different things this morning but all in my heart of one thing. GOD is GOOD all the time and Blesses us over and over again.

From Sis. Elms posts from many times back -- I am still counting my blessings one by one and the number is getting so high I am not sure I know what number comes next.

I am thankful for all of my fellow bloggers and even those that will become one soon!

GOD BLESS and have a GREAT DAY in JESUS NAME!

Also, thought I would throw a picture in here from Easter -- can't you tell with the heavy coats and bundling up. LOL!

CBS Reports!!

2007-04-16T20:16:00.000-06:00

Well.......here I am again! I was trying to post some more pictures and I am not giving up yet but I do seem to be running into some problems. Kodak Easy Share is not always as its name represents --LOL!

I do want to say, I really have enjoyed all the pictures and posts that all of you have been putting on my blog and on yours. It is a joy to read them all.

Today marks 30 days left of school, really only 29 due to the bad weather day we actually get to take. This week, the next 4 days will consist of TAKS testing in some shape, form or fashion. I find it very interesting that instead of spacing/spreading out the testing for the students that the state or whoever the powers that be are that they would want to test all in one week. You know we do go to school for 36 weeks. Just amazing to me! We adults would not want to do it for sure. Anyway, school has been good, but I am definitely ready for the year to end and spend the summer with my family and friends. I am looking forward to school starting later this next year which means, we teachers truly are getting closer to having 3 months off. YEA!!!

I could go on and on but I think I would start to ramble and that could get very interesting, being WHO I AM!! HA!!

Have a great evening and even better day tomorrow if the Lord tarries.

BTW - Connie says hello to His Holleyness!!

Hello Again!! (or shall I say Born Again!)

2007-04-12T21:43:00.000-06:00

Hello!!! Hello!! Hello!!! Okay, okay and okay! Alright already!!

Well, here I am!! So......what made me finally write. You want the truth I will give you the truth. Sis. Karen and Sis. Carla were the one. (Now don't everyone else feel left out but they are the ones that made me laugh the most with their comments.) Now the one who gave me the most guilt - that would be Sis. Mandy. Pitiful, just pitiful is how she made me feel. Now Sis. Elms she was the most original with her "AT REST" but Sis. Karen did top her and made me laugh and be curious with her "NEED TO BLOG"! Y'all are all fulfilled because I have now posted.

Well.........as Mater from Cars says, "GOOD NIGHT!"

I will write more later but you probably will have to WAIT! But until then I will leave you with a few cute pictures.

I appreciate all of the wonderful friendships and relationships that have abounded for me and my family since arriving in Wichita Falls and Life Tabernacle. This August will make 7 years and it has truly been the best 7 years of our lives. Thanks so very much for touching our lives in such a great way!

BLOG PATROL UPDATE!

2007-02-28T05:23:00.000-06:00

BEFORE /AFTER

Good Morning! I wonder how many people/bloggers are up at this time. Let me know when you comment. I fell asleep last night earlier than expected. I have pictures to share and I also have video to share but someone needs to show me how to get my videos to the you tube screen - HINT!! HINT!!!

Hey all of you wonderful parents - Guess what happens in 11 weeks? Give up?? School is out and summer is officially here. That is right, hang on and it will go by FAST!!! Well the summer might too. We might even get chances to go see three great revival churches, Pflugerville, Quitman and Bullard. In Jesus Name - let rain!

Okay, now that I am rambling, just trying to get this post on here - HA!

A couple of weeks ago when we went to Dan's grandfather 90th birthday all of grandkids and great grandkids were there and they had a blast with each other - here are a few shots of them. ENJOY! It is wonderful to watch children play and be happy & full of life.

Howie also had a program at school last week and it was cute, that is what I have video of, and I got this shot of Kathy and Howie. They are precious.

Okay, Dan & Connie are running around getting breakfast ready and ironing clothes. (That is what happens when you fall asleep early.......hehehe and sleep in!)

Y'all have a great day!!! May the Lord Bless You ALL and Many Miracles Happen in Your Life TODAY!! In Jesus Name.

Another Blessing and True Honor!

2007-02-12T21:09:00.000-06:00

Just a little sneak peak of our weekend in Louisiana, or should I say 42 hrs to be exact. We had a fast a furious trip and loved every minute of it. It was a true blessing the entire time. On Sunday, the day we left we went to church in Alexandria, the first time in at least 4 years. It was very nice, interesting and good for remembering our foundation.

We are so proud to be from Alexandria with the Manguns AND so proud to be from Wichita Falls with the Elms. We have had the great opportunity to be under the two best pastors and Men of God. As you can see we had an opportunity to talk we Sis. Vesta and we cherished it so much. We had to get a picture with them for our legacy and heritage. Our children made us so proud and they had a great time being around their old friends. One of the neatest things was when church was over to find the people we were closest with and wanted to see, we had to wait. You know why? Because they were all in the altar praying others through to repentance and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. That is neato!!!!

Well........until I can get some more picture and stories in, bless you in Jesus Name.

P.S. One of the comments we heard most was: I can see y'all are still "matching". Can you believe that? It is always interesting what people remember about you. It was funny and cute. It was nice to see old friends but we were so glad to get back "home" to LIFE!

Wild Ride with the Elephants

2007-02-09T13:48:00.000-06:00

Well...........Good Afternoon! No, I was not trampled by those elephants but I did so follow after them so closely that even I got confused as to which one was pink and which one was blue. (That was for you Bro. Gene) LOL!!! They kept me laughing and I totally go discombobulated along the way. I love that word whether it is spelled correctly or not. Hopefully Sis. Janet Anglin is not checking for grammar either.
It not only seems but appears that my fellow bloggers have been having a party on my behalf without me knowing. I see they have had a good time and I AM GLAD!!! My turn it seems to be so here I am.
This will be brief due to a long weekend coming with pictures and surprises but just wanted to say hello and YES much has happened in two weeks at the Bryant's household. Come on, we are the Bryant's. hehehehehe!!
I love you all and thanks for visiting.
See you soon in the blogosphere!!!

P.S. I just checked my camera and I have not taken any pictures since the last ones here either. Bad, bad elephants! Where is that elephant gun?!!?

Runs in the family - just look and see!

2007-01-21T21:07:00.000-06:00

Good Evening! Sis. Karla this is especially for YOU! When Alayna walked in, my first thought was Tom Landry and of course - the "boys". The Dallas Cowboys that is. Sis. Mandy said this was a present from Grandma Orange. It is really cute. I know you love pictures, so here they are. Of course, Howie jumped on Bro. Kenny's lap this morning and I could not resist and then Sis. Elms reminded me that Alayna and I had on the same colors so here we are.

I will tell you a secret, there are more coming that are even more special - that is all I am going to say. hehehehehe!

What do YOU want to happen in YOUR church.....YOUR city?

2007-01-21T14:36:00.000-06:00

Good Afternoon! WOW! What a service and it all started in Sunday School or rather it really started with a burden for souls. This morning in SS, Sis. Elms challenged us to "WRITE" our vision for "our" church and "our" city. At first you see a blank sheet of paper and you are expected to fill it out. But not really, there were no expectations, only realizations. It is our church and it is our city, we welcomed the space to put our vision. It was an opportunity to rekindle all those many wonderful visions that each of us have sat on many days desiring to see God do.
I dove right into it and I would like to share with all. I know there are many that were in SS today that will read this but for those "Lifers" that were not in there to hear all the many wonderful visions. I know You would love to hear so that your hearts will be continually stirred. (Not like this morning worship service was not reason enough to rejoice because it was.) If God chooses to never bless me again, I have been blessed in an abundance that would definitely suffice for the rest of my life. This morning being one of them.

In MY church - these things ARE happening in the midst of our lives.
(however, I have a desire for MORE!)
1. UNITY among the brethren at all times.
(there is only (1) goal and that is salvation and heaven.) - that includes everything worthwhile.
2.CONSTANT CONCERN for the lost.
(More than just, oh I want them to be saved)
Relationship-the Word-Relationship-the Word-Relationship-the Word. Need I say more?
3. Plans for a bigger church because all of the above has taken place.

In My City - it happened this morning, glory to God!

I see us as a "Lighthouse" both physically & spiritually

--a building where one (both lost and saved) can run into and be safe

--a body that when one enters: the presence of God is so strong that one becomes an overcomer by His Spirit almost instantaneously!

My brothers & sisters - let your faith be built by what we experienced this morning. We are all a part of the great outpouring of the Holy Ghost that God is releasing. This is only the tip of the iceberg. God is moving on our behalf. His promises, let me say again, His promises are yea and amen. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so. We as a body of believers said so this morning and God moved.

I thank the Lord for the mighty works that were done this morning and what is happening and moving in the Spirit world as I write this.

Be encouraged and remember: Through Christ I CAN!

Sis. Elms left us with this last question:
What will I do to make MY vision come to pass?

Remember they will be "WON by ONE".

Enjoying Life!

2007-01-20T20:25:00.000-06:00

Good Evening to all my fellow bloggers! I have been thinking a lot lately - I know that could be scary but I have been doing it anyway. It is amazing how the cycles of life goes and what happens in each of them. I have learned to enjoy them all. Everyday here is a day closer to heaven. Some may not like that kind of talk but it is true. I look forward to heaven and just being there trying to catch my breath from being totally overwhelmed with God's glory that all I can say is "Holy, Holy, Holy"! I so looked forward to snow this weekend but more than that, the time to relax again and come enjoy the peace of the slowness of life. I do not think for us of "Life" that it is of coincidence that the last two weekends that things have slowed down. I firmly believe that this has been a time for us to piece together our desires to move to a higher and greater level of worship, witnessing and walk with our Lord. I am blessed to be surrounded by the greatest bunch of saints. I encourage all of us to continue on the course that has been set before us and have great faith to see all that God is doing and going to do. Remember, God is going to do exactly what HE said HE would do. How true! Putting one foot in front of the other is a great way to get to another place and new place. We have a newness that is flowing through all of us and God is willing to complete His Promises. We are not perfect, but as we do the right things on a daily basis, we become perfected by HIM. Be blessed and enjoy knowing as we serve HIM, He is doing great things on our behalf.

Twas the Night Before...........

2007-01-15T21:06:00.000-06:00

Well........here we go to finally get back into the "routine" of things. I have rather enjoyed the lack of routine. I am sure from the reading I have done on the blogs that some have a home that is in much better shape than when Friday began. Guess what? Us too! We have used this time to our benefit. I am excited about the "WORD" that I was privileged to hear this weekend and and am looking forward to being with all the many "worshippers" of Life Tabernacle on Wednesday. I know that the weather has put a stop to many people going many places but it will never stop the Lord's desire to be worshipped. I know this is nothing new to any and all of you who flood thru these blogs. I just want to encourage all of us to put this weekend as a special memory of how the Lord will slow our world down and give us that down time we have so desperately needed.

Have a great start of a new week and still bundle up because it will be cold and we may just get some snow and who knows another restful weekend.

God bless you all!
P.S. Just wanted to throw in a picture with the post. hehehehe!!

P.S.S. Monkey see monkey do - one changes their background and we all follow suit, well most of us. I like the change.

Children's Choir on January 7th

2007-01-13T20:28:00.000-06:00

These are just a couple of pictures from that night for you to see. I know you hated to miss and especially when the children are singing. I took a few shots of them at choir practice and thought I would share them with you and the blog world. ENJOY!!

Sitting by the Fire

2007-01-13T20:04:00.000-06:00

Today has been a day of relaxation and I am so thankful for it. I have done a few things but I have been glad to not have been running around doing this and that. I need times like these just to sit and enjoy. Most of all, just to sit. The fire has been an added and extra pleasure. I really don't believe I will ever live in a house or have a home without a fireplace. It is a must for me. I also dreamed of having one when I was younger. When I was single and lived in Little Rock, I was tickled when my apartment had a fireplace. The irony was I lived there during the summer and never has a chance to use it. One of the apartments we have lived in since being married, Kathy was 5 years of age at the time had a fireplace and we loved it. We were so thankful too. Why? One year, Feb 1996 during "Because of the Times" the ice was so bad that it was so heavy on the wires that several transformers blew. Ours was one of them - we were in the cold for a very long time. Our fireplace was all we had and we were very glad.
Fireplaces always make me think of slowing down to relax and enjoy. So whether you have a fireplace or not I hope you take this time to sit, relax and enjoy. Did I mention those words enough to entice you to do so? I hope so!!

Exciting News for a 7-year old

2007-01-13T19:48:00.000-06:00

Today is the big day! Howieman has finally lost his first tooth! He was so excited and giddy! I wish I would have had the video on but I was too excited myself to even think. I love to watch anyone truly smile but especially a child, it is so neat and just "real". Here are a few pics trying to get the shot of his tooth gone without it looking goofy was tricky. I am still not sure if we succeeded, I am sure you will enjoy it anyway.

Howie is super excited and he asked if we knew the phone # to the tooth fairy. I said yes and Dan said no. It was funny to say the least!

Guess what - we have no cash in the house. Tooth fairy is making a run to take care of business. LOL!!

Tammy's 5 Things Most People Don't Know

2007-01-08T17:43:00.000-06:00

5 Things Most People Don't Know about ME!!!

1. Some may know but with the amount of people that come in and read this who knows or who remembers. LOL! Anyway, I lived in Riverside California when I was a little girl. I was in 2nd grade. Which for everyone's information, my dad was in the Air Force and we were stationed at March AFB that is only 7 miles from Bro. Booker's church in Rialto. I was there in 71 & 72. Those of you of knowledge - think back and tell me what churches was there during that time and who the pastors were. Who knows Sis.Elms - maybe there was a Fosters Freeze nearby and we went to it. =))That was when I was introduced to Disneyland and even went to a taping of the game show, "Let's Make a Deal". If you are under 40, you probably don't have a clue of what I am talking about. I remember California being the most fun all of us kids ever had living. We did so many things out there to include, Laguna Beach and going to see car races somewhere. We even went up to Bear Mountain - it was not snowing as we went up but on the way down it became a snowstorm.

2. Lynn - this is for you. I was a band nerd in high school also and college for that matter. We went to State every year and even won sweepstakes one time. It was a lot of fun. What most don't know is that I went to college on a music scholarship - I was one of the highest paid non-music majors. I spent most of my college life being involved in music. So why did I not major in music? Remember this is only what others don't know - not the why hour? Just teasing! But get this -trumpet is not what I played - French horn is the primary instrument that I received all of my accolades on.

3. I lettered in tennis in high school and then when I was teaching high school in Alexandria they asked me to coach the tennis team there and I accepted. Cute skirts but just too short - that was very short lived for me! LOL! I enjoy playing all different sports but those days are over - I like Sis. Ronda wrote on hers was a tomboy growing up and really enjoyed being outside.

4. I was privileged to be at the 2nd Inauguration of President Clinton. I was in the orchestra in Alexandria and the choir & orchestra was invited to go and perform at the church service the morning of the swearing in. It was a great honor to be on the grounds and nearby allt he excitement that was going on. It was bitter cold on those days but it was well worth it. The subway was definitely an experience along with downtown Washington DC.

So many things all of a sudden that floods my mind, which one do I chose?

5. Okay, here it goes: I have read how some hate the rain and tornadoes. I personally hate to drive in it and have my share of being in bad rainy situations. However, if I had my druthers - I love to sit on the back porch while it is raining and just watch & of course drink my coffee. Sitting with family and/or friends and relaxing to the voices of each other sharing stories is truly something that floats my boat. I could do that for hours and as some of you know - I have!Okay, there are my five and now it is time for me to tag.

This is going to be a surprise but since Bro. Jason and Sis. Julie now have a blog for their upcoming wedding. Julie and Jason consider both of you tagged.We all look forward to yall's 5.

To all - have a great day and be blessed in Jesus name.

Why I chose "Blessings from the Bryants"

2007-01-06T13:05:00.000-06:00

For so much of my life if not all, I can look back and see the hand of the Lord guiding and moving on behalf of me and my family. Sometimes there has been trials but I have learned to enjoy them as they come because I AM GROWING through them. I believe that today and will always believe that.

I just have to post this picture of my wonderful family
Please bear with the red eye, I forgot to set the camera correctly before getting Sis. Kim to take the picture. Oh well - life goes on.

I am so thankful for the family that God has blessed me with. First of all, putting Dan & I together was no short of a miracle that Cupid was definitely involved in. It is amazing how things (LIFE) works when you fall and I do mean "fall" in love. Which reminds me, the comment that Bro. Kris made about Sis. Elms post about having a crush on Bro. Elms. That is exactly how it should be. There is no one I would rather be with at ANY given time than my "sweet" husband. He has always been my hero and always WILL! Anyway, back to my blessings - then there are my wonderful children. Very different in so many ways but the main thing that they share is a "love for life". I love to watch them play together especially when they think no one is watching. I love watching both of them grow up. Being they are so many years apart makes things very interesting. However, I would not change a thing. I love them both so dearly. They truly are "my treasures!"

Cute picture of Kathy and Howie huh?
Yes it is!

Here are a few pictures of my family, this is Kathy Liz with my mom and then again with my sister Kathy, who so graciously put her life on hold for all of us during Howie's time of illness that I truly believe that God has healed. Thank You Jesus. Here is one of Howie with his Papa Herschel, they have a lot of fun together when out at the country home, just being a boy and his grandpa.
Continuing on with my blessings to include my immediate family. My parents did instill in me that doing the "right" thing is always the best choice. My brother and sisters have always been a "boss" to me being I was the "baby" of the family. I am glad of their good taking care of me.
From there I have to go to "Life Tabernacle" and what a blessing it has been to be among such an annointed church family. Yes, I came from a great church which grounded me in several areas but here at "Life" I have grown up in the Lord. Thanks so many times over to all the many saints here in Wichita Falls.
I guess I should end this now for a short while - I have to go and download some pictures to put with this post.
Until then - May God Bless You Richly!!

Well, I think I am finished for a short while. I will see you blogging!

We have FINALLY started!

2007-01-05T22:54:00.000-06:00

Here we go! This is the first posting of our "NEW" blog. I am so sorry, I did not start this earlier. I was thinking I was too "technically challenged" - not anymore! LOL!

I have truly enjoyed all the posts from everyone else that I, we right, just had to start one also.

Pictures will come soon!

Let us see how this works and go from there.

I love the 5 things that others don't know - definitely neato!