Nearing the End of Summer

It is close to the end of Summer 2011. Well, for my daughter, it's already ended as she returned to school this week! She's in 8th grade now and is taking a few high school classes. I hope she is able to handle them. She loves her Spanish class. Everyday this week, she's come home with new words to share. :)

My son and his family came up last weekend to get their things out of storage to take back to the base. They found a house to rent and they're so excited. Hopefully, we can visit in December. And I'm sure hoping they're able to come home for Thanksgiving!!

Zach gave his little girl a ride on the 4-wheeler. She cried when she had to get off.

Here is my daughter with Kaylee. I know she tired of me telling her to be careful, but grandma can't help it!

I had the day off today - just an R&R day. I finished this 550-piece puzzle. Isn't it cute?!

We had a 5.9 earthquake yesterday with the epicenter in Mineral, VA. I went into the office yesterday morning and the earthquake occurred as I was driving on my way home during my lunch hour. I didn't feel it, but when I signed back on at home, a co-worker of mine called in a panic. She said her house shook for 20-25 seconds. The people at the office said the office building shook pretty bad too and knocked everyone offline for a few minutes. My cell phone wasn't working for 15-20 minutes afterward. It was a bit surreal. We're not used to earthquakes here in Virginia! Praise the Lord no one was hurt.

As a Bible prophecy student, this scripture came to mind:

Mark 13:8 - For nation shall rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrow.

I fear for America in the coming months as there will be a vote in the U.N. in September to take land away from Israel. God promised that land to Abraham and his descendents. He said He would bless those who bless Israel and curse those who curse Israel.

Joel 3:1,2 - For behold, in those days and at that time, when I shall reverse the captivity and restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem, I will gather all nations and I will bring them down into the valley of Jehoshaphat and there will I deal with and execute judgment upon them for their treatment of My people and My heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations and because they have divided My land.

I try not to worry about it. I know these things must happen before the return of my King. But it is a disconcerting thought indeed to think about God's wrath being poured out on America.

Psalm 121:1,2 - I lift mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.

Amen. So grateful for His love and care and that our redemption draweth ever closer.

My 40th Birthday and What I'm Now Reading

So I turned 40 this week. Eeek! I can hardly believe it! No, it doesn't feel any different, but I see a lot more gray hairs than I did just 2 years ago. I now have to have my glasses on to read...didn't used to not too long ago. I guess this is the age when the first signs of "aging" creep in for most of us. There are some lucky ones out there who are blessed with looking and feeling youthful longer. But no matter...I'm still very blessed and have much to be thankful to God for!

Above is (what's left) of an icecream cake my sweet mom made me. It was GOOD! :)

This is a pocketbook my sister got me. I love owls.

I started reading The Help by Kathryn Stockett this week. It's a very good read so far. I found myself laughing outloud at some points. At the same time, it highlights the very real struggles that African-Americans endured in this country during segregation. It's hard to understand the mistreatment and prejudice. :(

The next book I plan on reading is Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen. I want to read it before going to see the movie. The reviews I've read so far are good.

Well, I have blueberry cookies in the oven I have to tend to. They smell good too.

God Bless,

Lorrie

August Already?

I cannot believe that August has arrived already! My daughter is now busy at Marching Band Camp. She opted to play an instrument this year instead of try out for color guard. She plays the flute in concert band, but her band director asked her to play the piccolo in the marching band. She said the music is difficult, but a challenge never hurt anyone, right? :)

My son had his 20th birthday while he was away in boot camp. We treated him to dinner when he came home on leave. He and his family have already arrived at their new base and I miss them so very much!

Here are some of the homegrown tomatoes out of our garden. We will be doing some canning. I think I may make some salsa.

Lastly, here is a cute salt and pepper shaker I purchase in West Virginia. Haha. I found it at a gas station, no less.

Well, work is calling my name....

Blessings,

Lorrie