Dandy Gandee's

Trials are a GOOD thing??

2009-08-11T15:08:00.002-05:00

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls." 1 Peter 1:3-9

These trials have come so that you may have genuine faith... So what You are saying God, is that I need these trials? That I have to have them so I won't be a cheap imitation, but rather the real deal? Ok God. If that is what it takes to reveal Your glory in my life - so be it.

Death By Phase 10

2009-06-17T09:25:00.001-05:00

Oh Ryan - how we will miss thee...

I'm Gonna Take A Trip!

2009-06-15T10:43:00.005-05:00

We are hooked. Officially. Our second cruise is booked! And within 5 months of the first one - how awesome is that? :) We sail for Cozumel in a couple (ok - 3) months and we are STOKED!

Sigh - how I've missed thee!

Today? Applying for passports!! Wheeee!!!!

Be, For I Am

2009-06-11T09:43:00.004-05:00

How often do we get so busy doing for God and we cease to become? I've been going through a bit of a 'becoming' process over the last couple of days. It started a couple of weeks ago when we got to meet up with a cousin of mine and his family. As I talked to his wife she quoted the scripture "Be ye holy for [HE] is holy" and it grabbed me. Couple of days later, when I just could NOT get it out of my head, I looked it up to see what the context was and now I REALLY can't get it out of my head.

"Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."" I Peter 1:13-16

In the beginning of the chapter Peter is talking about salvation and trials. He instructs that we should rejoice in our trials. Why? "These [trials] have come so that your faith ... may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." It's for HIS glory!

Now - to the scripture above. Jennifer posted the song "Stand Out" on her blog and it reminded me once again the truth of "We're in a war!" There is a war going on in the spirit. The enemy is attacking and trying to defeat the saints of God. The word says to "prepare our minds for action" - my interpretation - be on your toes! Be ready at a moments time! Don't allow yourself to go to sleep! We are to be "self-controlled" - not giving ourselves to every whim of the world. Our hope should be on Jesus Christ.

"As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance." We have been called to stand apart. When we became children of God we gained a certain responsibility to stand up against the evil desires of this world. Peter instructs to "be holy in ALL you do"! Every aspect of life. On our own there is NO way we can do this. But with Him?? We can! Our goal is to be holy - as HE is holy. He walked this life without blemish. He gave up His rights in order to save us. I don't know about you, but that makes me want to strive to be more like Him than ever before! What an AWESOME, HOLY, RIGHTEOUS God we serve!!!

I apologize if this blog seems a bit scattered and random - it's just what is on my heart! The word of God is alive if we choose to hear. And right now my ears long to hear, my eyes long to see, and my heart yearns to feel His love like never before.

Congratulations!!

2009-04-04T14:57:00.001-05:00

Today Jesse Gandee will wed Brittany Winkle and I get a new sister-in-law and niece!! WOO-HOO!!

CONGRATS JESSE & BRITTANY!

Good Behavior Makes You Invisible?

2009-03-31T09:44:00.004-05:00

Non Sequitor is one of my favorite comic strips mostly due to that while being extremely funny it will make you think. Below is yesterday and then today's strip..

Is it true? Are you 'invisible' if you are a good person? If you follow all the rules, and don't rock the boat - are you invisible? And if so, is that a good thing or a bad? What are your thoughts?

Can't Live Without

2009-03-30T09:25:00.012-05:00

On All That Is Good today is Friend Making Monday! Check it out.

Today's topic - 10 things you can't live without and why. And no, they aren't listed in any specific order. :)

1. My phone! It keeps me connected at all times... wait, maybe that's a bad thing! HA!

2. My family! They are incredible and I love each and every one of them.

3. My husband! He is the best thing (besides Jesus) that has happened to me. He is my best friend.

4. Friends! I have got an awesome group of friends. They are truly the greatest friends anyone could ask for.

NOTE: Not all friends are pictured - low selection of pics on this comp! :)

5. Kitchen-aid! How I love thee, let me count the ways. Sigh... Isn't she beautiful?

6. Jesus Christ! Without Him I would be a worthless mess. With Him I can stand today and say "I am HIS!!" Yes, I am putting a picture of my church. It is one of the places I meet Jesus on a weekly basis. :)

7. Lip Gloss! Have you ever TRIED this stuff?? It's amazing. And addicting.

8.Peanut butter! You think I'm crazy. I think I'm in love. With peanut butter. Jif peanut butter. Creamy Jif peanut butter. Excuse me - I need a pbj now...

9. Lady! Yes - I am one of those people. ;) I love my dog. It's hard to describe and unless you are a "dog person" you just won't understand. And yes, I still love her after she makes me fall down the stairs!

10.Music! It's been a part of my life since I was small. It's how I express myself!

Song Of My Heart

2009-03-26T08:57:00.002-05:00

I am a KJV girl. I don't think there is anything wrong with the other translations, I just prefer the KJV (or NIV) translations. However. I started to read Psalms 19 this morning and thought to myself, "Huh - I wonder how the Message tells this passage.." All I have to say is wow. I love the way it puts plain the glory and awesomeness of God! Verse 4 - "Unspoken truth is spoken everywhere!" Man can deny that God exists. Man can say He is just a myth. I have one response - look around! The truth of God is everywhere and in everything! What a great and mighty God I serve!!!

Psalm 19 - The Message

God's glory is on tour in the skies,
God-craft on exhibit across the horizon.
Madame Day holds classes every morning,
Professor Night lectures each evening.

Their words aren't heard,
their voices aren't recorded,
But their silence fills the earth:
unspoken truth is spoken everywhere.

God makes a huge dome
for the sun—a superdome!
The morning sun's a new husband
leaping from his honeymoon bed,
The daybreaking sun an athlete
racing to the tape.

That's how God's Word vaults across the skies
from sunrise to sunset,
Melting ice, scorching deserts,
warming hearts to faith.

The revelation of God is whole
and pulls our lives together.
The signposts of God are clear
and point out the right road.
The life-maps of God are right,
showing the way to joy.
The directions of God are plain
and easy on the eyes.
God's reputation is twenty-four-carat gold,
with a lifetime guarantee.
The decisions of God are accurate
down to the nth degree.

God's Word is better than a diamond,
better than a diamond set between emeralds.
You'll like it better than strawberries in spring,
better than red, ripe strawberries.

There's more: God's Word warns us of danger
and directs us to hidden treasure.
Otherwise how will we find our way?
Or know when we play the fool?
Clean the slate, God, so we can start the day fresh!
Keep me from stupid sins,
from thinking I can take over your work;
Then I can start this day sun-washed,
scrubbed clean of the grime of sin.
These are the words in my mouth;
these are what I chew on and pray.
Accept them when I place them
on the morning altar,
O God, my Altar-Rock,
God, Priest-of-My-Altar.

Elizabeth's Surprise Party!

2009-03-23T13:28:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day! (a day early)

2009-03-16T14:15:00.000-05:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

WBLGO - Wk 2

2009-03-16T09:56:00.002-05:00

So the loss was NOT that good this week. But I did lose! .6 pounds! haha! We ate so bad this weekend - fajitas, guacamole, chili dogs, cake... must... learn... self... control!

Got a mani this past weekend. I was discussing how I hadn't had one in almost a year, and a dear friend felt sorry for me so she got me a gift certificate for one. I now remember why I shouldn't get them. I can't stop staring at my nails! I don't get them polished - just buffed. The shininess is getting to me. I'm so easily distracted by the shiny. And it got me to thinking.

There are a lot of people in this world that are distracted by the "shiny". They allow thoughts of money and things distract them from the work they are supposed to do.

"But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. " I Thess 5:1-2

Jesus is coming back. There are lost, hurting, confused people in this world who are being 'distracted' and lulled to 'sleep'. I pray that we aren't distracted by things or positions or the 'shiny' things of this world.

Time is short. What are you doing with what you have left?

Thank you Lord

2009-03-13T12:46:00.002-05:00

God is so good.

Sondra and I have been truly blessed. The last week and a half have been very trying. As Sondra has eluded to previously, her father was in the hospital and I lost my grandmother to a sudden heart attack. But through it all, we've learned to rely on the Lord for strength. Cause Lord knows, we ain't got it on our own! :-)

I want to take a moment to thank all my friends and church family for being a tremendous support to both of us. We love you all dearly.

WBLGO - Wk 1

2009-03-10T08:38:00.003-05:00

This week was the first week of our Work Biggest Loser Girls Only competition. Annnnddddd.... I LOST SIX POUNDS! Now, I am FULLY aware that it was a lot of water weight - and that I ate a TON of junk at the hospital and at the funeral and when you stop eating all that it will drop of quick at first. HOWEVER. I am still excited about it!

Life is starting to slow down, and I am so very thankful. Dad is home and recovering. He's still weak - but doing so much better. We're still working through Mimi's death - but I know that will be something we will work through for the rest of our lives. It's never easy when you lose a loved one. My pastor one time spoke of ambush grief. Those moments when you aren't even thinking of your deceased loved one and then BAM! You smell something, you see something, you hear something - and the grief side swipes you. My family calls it Christmas Aisle moments because that's when it first happened for us. Walking down the Christmas aisle in Wal-Mart. My grandmother passed away 10 years ago and I still have Christmas Aisle moments.

I have a confession. My family and I have this horrible tendency to laugh in stressful situations. Case in point: Pastor is at the hospital praying for my father. He makes the statement that we are praying a hedge of protection around him. I laugh. Why did I laugh? Because all I can think about is the video below.

SEE?!?!?! It's a HORRIBLE THING!! HAHAHAHAHAHA! But you have to admit... it's pretty funny! :)

THIS Is My Story.

2009-03-02T20:26:00.003-06:00

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.

This is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long;
this is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long.

Perfect submission, perfect delight!
Visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
Angels descending bring from above
Echoes of mercy, whispers of love.

This is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long.

Perfect submission, all is at rest!
I, in my Savior, am happy and blest,
Watching and waiting, looking above,
Filled with his goodness, lost in His love.

This is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long.

On All Sides

2009-03-02T16:04:00.004-06:00

Saturday morning Donnie woke up late. He didn't wake me until he was getting ready to leave for work, so the morning started off a little off. Within an hour he called me from work saying that his grandmother (Mimi) had passed away. This was very hard news - she had not been sick and it took us (at least Donnie and I) by surprise.

Saturday afternoon Donnie and I arrived early at a Father/Daughter banquet. We were the entertainment (a skit) for the night. My sister had convinced my father (surprisingly!) to come and be our "dates" for the night. Halfway through my father began shaking and feeling poorly so Stephanie took him home. After our skit, Donnie and I rushed to their house. His temperature had reached 104. My mother was very worried, the doctor was called, and he was taken to the emergency room. That night he was admitted into the hospital. The prognosis was a UTI and a kidney infection. Again.

Sunday morning his temperature reached 104 again. The tylenol and drugs were not bringing it down any. The doctors immediately set in motion a cystogram. His breathing was very shallow and rapid. This caused worry since the aenesthesia normally caused the same effect. In went a breathing tube and a feeding tube. They removed the stint that was put in at the end of January and put in two more. After the surgery he was heavily sedated and placed in ICU.

This morning the breathing and feeding tube were removed. He is very groggy and doesn't remember the last 24 hours. However, he was allowed to sit up in a chair for a few minutes.

They still don't know what is wrong - why the infection won't go away. Why he seems to be a kidney stone manufacturer extrodinaire. However, if things continue to improve they will put him in a regular room.

Mimi's funeral will be Wednesday at 10am. Ginger has requested that Leah, Donnie and I to sing 'Blessed Assurance'.

Please say a prayer. This has been and still is a very trying time for the Gandee's and the Gooch's.

Psalm 118:1-8
O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever.Let Israel now say, that his mercy endureth for ever. Let the house of Aaron now say, that his mercy endureth for ever. Let them now that fear the LORD say, that his mercy endureth for ever. I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? The LORD taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.

Picture to brighten your week!

2009-02-12T16:54:00.007-06:00

It's been so busy around here!! I'm such a bad blogger - but I just haven't had the time to keep up with my HAVE-To-Do List that my would-LIKE-To-Do List has really suffered. To give you something to look at and so you won't forsake my little neglected blog entirely - I thought I would give you a few pics!

L to R: Mandy, Krista, Kerri and I at the TMV Party 2008

Lady crawled into our suitcase when we were getting ready for the cruise and stayed just long enough for me to snap a picture. She wanted to come with!

Donley and I on the boat in Galveston - and YES! I was COLD!

Have a fantabulous week!

Senseless

2009-02-02T16:24:00.003-06:00

Life is too short and uncertain to not live right.

Kristen Martinez

This is the son of my previos pastor in Grand Prairie. We went to high school together and were three months apart. His funeral is tomorrow afternoon.

I haven't spoken to him in many years. But his death is hitting a little too close to home. It is making me realize just how uncertain life is. You don't know when God is going to call you home, or when the trumpet is going to sound. I don't want to be unsure of where I am going when it happens. I don't want to have let circumstances steal my chance at heaven. There are too many other things that are so much more important.

Lots of rambling... but it's what is on my heart and mind today...

Cruisin'

2009-01-19T09:42:00.002-06:00

We are HOME! The cruise was oh so much fun, but I am thankful to be home. Here are a few pictures from the trip...

The reason...

2008-12-25T08:15:00.003-06:00

Luke 2:1-19

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register.

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Lord, please let me never forget.. let me not get so wrapped up in commercialism and the gifts and forget that it's about You, Jesus, not me. Today, above all else, I want to glorify You. Thank You for giving me the greatest gift I could ever receive... You. Happy birthday Jesus.

Green with Green Grass Envy

2008-12-09T15:38:00.001-06:00

Isn’t it funny how we are never satisfied? When we are young, we want to be older. When we are single, we want to be married. When we are in school, we want to have a job. The grass always looks just a little bit greener on the other side. If I could just… reach… I’d be SO much happier! Yet, when we get there? Behold! Problems! Who would have GUESSED?

Paul states, “for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:11-13)

I love the line “I have learned the secret to being content in ANY and EVERY situation.” Webster’s defines contented as “feeling or showing satisfaction with one’s possessions, status, or situation.” Imagine that. Being satisfied with what we have (not what our neighbor has), with where we are (not where we think we should be)...

Listening to the iPod at work and the song “The Other Side of the Fence” by Jonny Lang played. I guess you could say that it got me to thinking. :)

“The grass always looks greener on the other side of the fence
But the dog over there might be meaner on the other side of the fence
The car in the driveway looks longer on the other side of the street,
Does anything ever go wrong there on the other side of the fence?

Stay in your own yard
Play in your own yard
Be happy in your own yard
Cause everything that glitters really ain't gold

The future always looks brighter on the other side of the tracks
Everybody wants to go over but they don't want to come back
They live like Kings and Queens on their side of the town
They're gonna have to make room for me there on their side of the town

Jealousy's a cold thing, it's ice water in your veins
All it brings is bitterness and pain
Everything that glitters really ain't gold

Instead of worrying about what you are not, gotta make the most with what you got
Instead of keeping up with Mr. Jones, better look out for your own

Stay in your own yard
Play in your own yard
Be happy in your own yard
Cause everything that glitters really aint gold”

Silly Questions

2008-12-02T20:36:00.003-06:00

Because I'm tired and fighting sleep... Enjoy...

What is your favorite quotable line from a movie?
"but I love the cookie"

Who is the most famous person you have spoken to?
Umm - Sis Bobbie Shoemake? :)

How many bags/boxes of potato chips are consumed at your place in a month?
less than a bag.. depends on if Donnie is in a sammy and chips kind of a mood.

Who is your all time favorite cartoon character?
HAMMY!!!

What foreign food dish do you prepare from scratch and serve?
I make some pretty good salsa verde chicken enchiladas. Is that foreign enough?

What is your favorite section of the supermarket?
I love to the cheese aisle at Central Market. I could spend hours in that one little section!

What was your high school teams mascot and what were the school's colors?
In Chickasha our colors were purple and gold, and we were the fighting chicks! Scary, no? At South Grand Prairie our colors were red and gold, and we were the WARRIORS! Much scarier. :)

Thanksgiving and Puppy Love

2008-11-27T17:27:00.003-06:00

I have a lot to be thankful for this year. One of which - I have a new puppy! Donnie and I have gone back and forth about whether or not to get a dog for a while now. A coworker of mine happened to have eight puppies he was giving away on Monday, so Donnie decided to go ahead!

Her name is Lady, she will be seven weeks tomorrow, and she is a lab/pointer/dalmation mix. She's been great so far. Donnie and I haven't gotten very much sleep the last couple of nights - but she's worth it! :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Food for thought

2008-11-17T11:01:00.003-06:00

I am one who loves to be in control. For those who know me well, Shush. :)

Seriously, I do like to have some control in my life. Even if I am a bystander, I like to know what is going to happen, what the plan is. It rolls over in to every aspect of my life in some form or fashion. I will read the last chapter in a book if I can't tell which way it will end, often skimming when I get nervous about the direction it is headed. If watching a movie, when the plot is not predicatable (at least to me) I will get nervous and feel like I have to leave the room. My alarm clock is set 10 minutes ahead - just to get an idea of where I will be in about that time. Sad, isn't it??

I stumbled upon this link (i used to hate to be confused) on a website. I knew had to read it after skimming the title.

Know you may wonder what control and confusion have in common. (I know - you've probably already figured this out - but work with me) I do NOT like being confused. When I am confused, I feel as though I have lost all control and am left vulnerable. I don't really do vulnerable well. However, it is only in that vulnerability and weakness that God is glorified!

Psalms 18:30-32 "As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. For who is God besides the LORD? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect."

He is perfect. I am not. A reminder I need daily.

Silly Quizzes

2008-11-17T10:07:00.001-06:00

I know, I know... not another post about a quiz I took and the results. What can I say? I am almost addicted to them. I like to take them and see if they even come close. This one? Fairly close! :)

Your result for Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz...

You Are a Marilyn!

You are a Marilyn -- "I am affectionate and skeptical."

Marilyns are responsible, trustworthy, and value loyalty to family, friends, groups, and causes. Their personalities range broadly from reserved and timid to outspoken and confrontative.

How to Get Along with Me

* Be direct and clear
* Listen to me carefully
* Don't judge me for my anxiety
* Work things through with me
* Reassure me that everything is OK between us
* Laugh and make jokes with me
* Gently push me toward new experiences
* Try not to overreact to my overreacting.

What I Like About Being a Marilyn

* being committed and faithful to family and friends
* being responsible and hardworking
* being compassionate toward others
* having intellect and wit
* being a nonconformist
* confronting danger bravely
* being direct and assertive

What's Hard About Being a Marilyn

* the constant push and pull involved in trying to make up my mind
* procrastinating because of fear of failure; having little confidence in myself
* fearing being abandoned or taken advantage of
* exhausting myself by worrying and scanning for danger
* wishing I had a rule book at work so I could do everything right
* being too critical of myself when I haven't lived up to my expectations

Marilyns as Children Often

* are friendly, likable, and dependable, and/or sarcastic, bossy, and stubborn
* are anxious and hypervigilant; anticipate danger
* form a team of "us against them" with a best friend or parent
* look to groups or authorities to protect them and/or question authority and rebel
* are neglected or abused, come from unpredictable or alcoholic families, and/or take on the fearfulness of an overly anxious parent

Marilyns as Parents

* are often loving, nurturing, and have a strong sense of duty
* are sometimes reluctant to give their children independence
* worry more than most that their children will get hurt
* sometimes have trouble saying no and setting boundaries

Getting Ready for Omaha!

2008-11-15T13:31:00.002-06:00

I'm so excited! I found my formal(ish) outfit for Omaha! Almost a month early! Who knew that could happen? I went to the mall with the sister and the cousin this morning and found a skirt to match the jacket I already bought AND a pair of shoes!!

That's all I have for now. I'm at my mom's and the keyboard - eees not so good! Off to have sushi - HOPEFULLY!!!

Evil Eye!

2008-11-04T14:38:00.001-06:00

This is hilarious!

List

2008-10-06T08:10:00.002-05:00

Sitting at work typing emails.
Smelling someones breakfast in the break room
Listening to the rain as it falls outside and co-workers laughing about their weekends.
Drinking nothing at the moment, just waiting on the tea to finish brewing.
Reading Pride & Prejudice and hoping to actually finish it this time.
Loving God and His people.
Dreading having to draw up a will. Evidently it's important to have or something.
Eagerly anticipating the Bubbles concert Saturday night!
Worrying about family and decisions being made.
Wishing I could have stayed home with my honey today.
Praying that I can be everything He wants me to be.
Grateful for second chances.
Sharing mybox of kleenexs with a coworker.

I got this list from BethanyActually. Feel free to copy.

Demotivation - Love these!

2008-09-30T16:12:00.006-05:00

Geezer-ville and Sappy-town

2008-09-24T16:27:00.003-05:00

It is official. My husband has turned old. His 30th birthday is today. Now, I don't really think 30 is old. In fact, the closer I get to it - the younger it seems! I just like to tease him about leaping into a new decade of his life.

I am so very proud of my husband. He works so hard day in and day out. The schedule he maintains is packed tight with school, work, church obligations - but he always makes time for me and time for our marriage. This past weekend is a prime example. He normally works Friday nights and Saturday mornings, but he took off so we could go to Granbury with the church. He had a test on Tuesday and a large lab that was due that day as well. I know he really needed to study. But because he wanted to spend time building our marriage he did not study over the weekend, causing him to stay up very late Sunday night and Monday night to go over everything.

What I admire most about my husband is his devotion to God. There were times that I know he could have stayed home and studied instead of going to church. Or times that he could have gotten extra hours for needed income at work. But he didn't. He has put God above all else and is such a great example to me, his family, my family, and our friends.

I love you Donnie. I hope you have a wonderful 30th birthday. And I pray that God blesses you with many more years. With ME!! :)

(btw - he's the hunk in the middle!)

Sondra

Lord, Please Hear My Prayer

2008-09-04T09:51:00.001-05:00

I’m Your vessel
Imperfect in my ways
But You’re the master potter
Have Your way
And should You chose to break me
I will trust You
For You know what’s best for me

To be broken
To be used
To be more than formed by You
This is all I long for
All I need
Break this vessel
Work in me

For You to use me
I must be renewed
So into Your skillful hands I place my life
Do what You chose
And should You chose to break me
I will trust You
For You know what’s best for me

To be broken
To be used
To be more than formed by You
This is all I long for
All I need
Break this vessel
Work in me

My lips have said ‘not my will but thine’
But when it becomes my hearts cry
Then I can be used and You can be glorified
Lord, break me and mold me again

To be broken
To be used
To be more than formed by You
This is all I long for
All I need
Break this vessel
Work in me

Old, Ragweed, Family

2008-08-28T15:07:00.004-05:00

It's OFFICIAL. I'm 27. A lot of grief is being sent my way due to my getting older. But to be honest - 27 feels pretty good. It feels right. I had an awesome birthday - thank you to everyone that made it extra special!

I've been a little under the weather this week - dumb allergies. All the coughing, scrathy/hurt throat, congestion, sniffling, headache, fuzyz brain - ness has really slowed me down. I really don't like not following through on my commitments and not being able to sing or teach Wednesday night was a real bummer. Service was awesome, but with the head swimming, fluctuating from hot and cold, and coughing - concentration was a little difficult.

The Bohde Reunion is this weekend. I have been fighting going (to no avail, I might add - stubborn father), but now that it is almost here I'm actually starting to look forward to it. If only this cold/allergies will clear up!!

College football kicks off this SATURDAY!!! SOOOO excited!!

On a closing note - a little something to make your day brighter. :) I love this baby girl.

Isn't she beautiful? Makes you realize what's important and what is just fluff.

"Take therefore no thought for the morrow... "

Lists & Ramblings (i.e. it won't make sense, but it will be organized!)

2008-08-18T10:01:00.005-05:00

It's Monday. It's raining. I reserve the right to be melancholy!

I'm falling back into the non-blogging. It probably goes back to a couple of resons:

1) I attempt to be as eloquent, witty, and charming as some of the blogs I read and let's just face it - I'm none of the above!
2) I keep saying "I don't have time." Yet, I somehow have time to read the other million and one blogs that I keep up with almost daily.
3) Nothing significant has happened worthy of blogging.
4) Knowing who potentially may read it makes me very leary of what I type.

Now, while 1, 2, and 3 are very true and carry a lot of weight I think 4 is my main hold up. And since I'm in a list mood evidently, it could be from several things.

1) I don't want to say anything that would offend someone.
2) My reputation for being perfect (HAHAHAHAHA! Sorry.. I'm back) or my desire for my reputation to be perfect and I could say/write something that would tarnish it.
3) It would make me to stinkin' vulnerable!

A friend said recently "it's a shame - you can tell some people just aren't comfortable in their own skin." We were discussing how it's hard to make true friends and the fronts/masks people put up. The friend's point (or my interpretation of the point) was that when you are comfortable with who you are, who God made you to be, you don't have to put up a front. You simply say "this is who I am". And as simple as that is - it can be extremely difficult for an approval addict. I want people to like me. And in desiring that - I lose myself. Over and over again. And if allowed - I lose my relationship with God. So we are going to try to remove this mask a layer at a time. I want to be comfortable in my own skin. So here's me:

1) I am loud and will often break out in song or laugh at inappropiate times.
2) My friends are important to me. Mess with them, mess with me. I'm loyal to a fault at times.
3) I am not perfect. I often put my foot in my mouth when I speak rashly (which is a lot more often than I care to admit!)
4) God is the most important thing in my life. I will talk about Him and church and the ministries I am involved in at length. Get ready.

"I'm not perfect, just forgiven. Haven't yet arrived, but I'm on my way. Since Jesus found me, and forgave me - I can't say I'm perfect, but I can say I'm saved."

And isn't that what it's all about anyway?

VBS 2008 - Power Lab!

2008-08-04T09:57:00.002-05:00

VBS 2008 is officially over! We had such a great time. There was a lot of time and effort put into it, and I think it went well. This year's theme was Power Lab! We all got to be mad scientist and try experiements. The kids got to make slime, walk on water, create their own language, see how it felt to be blind, have water fights, the works! And most important, they learned about the power of Jesus. Ah HA! Each night had a Bible point and when someone said it the kids had to yell "Ah HA!" It was a lot of fun. I'm really glad I got to help out this year. Enjoy the pictures!

Never Would Have Made It

2008-07-29T09:33:00.003-05:00

A coworker introduced me to the song below. Oh, how much truth is in this song! If it was not for the hand of God and His grace that has been extended to me each and every day - I would not have made it this far! He is the reason I stand. It is for Him I will continue to stand.

I'm stronger, I'm wiser, I'm better - so much better... Because of You...

Oh So Yummy

2008-07-15T12:05:00.002-05:00

My oh my oh my! I love these chips!! I happened across them in my parents cupboards one day and my chip life hasn't been the same. Try them - you might like them!

Thankfulness

2008-07-15T10:04:00.003-05:00

I've been praying about a situation for a while now. I started off praying for God's will, but when it wasn't happening as fast or in the direction I thought it should have been moving I became impatient. My prayers turned into "Lord, give me this." My thought life became consumed with the issue and my peace started seeping out of my life. The focus left God's will and turned to Sondra's wants. Our church services have been starting out with the congregation gathering at the front for focused prayer. One night recently, as the congregation started to gather, a scripture popped into my mind.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

Oh how wrong I had been!! a) I was anxious and letting it consume me. b) I had no thanksgiving!! I was not approaching the Lord being thankful - I was completely ignoring the blessings and benefits He had ALREADY given me. I learned a valuable lesson that I will hopefully remember for at least a couple of months! To be thankful in every situation is hard. I don't want to be thankful for the allergies. I don't want to be thankful that someone backed in to my car. I don't want to be thankful that gas is almost $4! But for every frustration - the blessings tied to it are tremendous. I have allergies, yes. But I can breathe. Someone backed into my car, yes. But I have a car. Gas is expensive, yes. But God has made a way for me to put gas in that car every week.

Thank You, Lord. Your blessings are abundant. Let me never forget that.

Thought For The Day

2008-07-14T16:43:00.005-05:00

"Let It Go"

Such an easy phrase, huh? To say that is! Now, all you phlegmatics are asking "What's so hard about that??" Well, for this melancholy/choleric/red-head - A LOT! It is not easy for me to let things go. I like to hang on to them. Whether it's the last piece of chocolate in a box that I don't want to eat because then I won't have anymore, or it's the hurtful thing someone said to me three years ago. I will say this - I'm learning and I'm trying. One moment at a time. :)

So Long

2008-07-07T12:17:00.002-05:00

I'm a horrible blogger!

There have been a few things I have discovered about myself over the last couple of months. First, if I am stressed - I don't blog. :) I don't really like to sit down and think about my feelings. Pushing them to the side seems like the best plan of action, though I know it really isn't. Second, I have become more laid back and assertive since I've been married to Donnie. How that works, well we are still trying to figure that one out. Third, I wear out easier than I used to. I have put on weight since the wedding, and that may have something to do with it. But, it seems that I just can't be around people or be going, going, going all the time anymore. Some days it makes me sad, other days I'm completely ok being a party pooper!!

Donnie is taking Calculus over the summer. He has made repeated attempts to explain what he is going over in class. With each attempt - my eyes glaze over, I nod, and start thinking of other things. It's not that I don't care! Calculus is a class I never took and most of what he is saying I am so clueless about! I do try though. I try very hard!

We just got home from our 2008 CNR Reunion and we had a blast. It was really nice to see the folks from California and from Illinois. We had a cook-out on Friday night. No fireworks - but at least we had bratwurst! I love me some brats! Next year we'll be heading to California for the reunion. I can't wait!! We are planning a road trip with the 6 of us, I think it will be fun!!

OH! I attempted rice krispy treats for the first time. (I know, I know - "the first time??" But, why should I make them when my mom does such a fantastic job?) May I pass along something I learned in my attempt to make these yummy goodies? If you are going to put chocolate chips in. Don't pour them into the hot marshmallows first. Wait til you have most of the rice krispy's covered, k? Just trust me.

Sondra

A Little Late

2008-05-02T21:48:00.002-05:00

Hey Everybody...

Sondra and I celebrated 1 year of wonderful wedded bliss this past March 17th. We wanted to go somewhere special for the both of us, a place that neither one of us had spent any amount of time. We chose to take a roadtrip. Our final destination...Tyler, Texas :-)

We had a wonderful time. Sondra and I are a couple of closet history buffs. We visited several of the hsitorical homes in the area. One in particular, the Goodman home, was quite an interesting place. It showed just how much people, in the 1800s, used mirrors as a way to make their houses appear much bigger than they were. The Goodman home had mirrors on opposite sides of the room. Also, every room in the house, with the exception of the kitchen, had a fireplace. Even the bedrooms...all four of which were up a looooooong winding staircase. Long story short, it was a beautiful thing to see and even more fun to imagine life in the heyday of every room.

We went bowling and enjoyed the most incredible Victorian style steaks from Outback. My, my, my...

The best thing about it all was the time that we had to spend together. We had so much fun laughing at each others jokes. We even sat in McDonalds for over an hour just reading the newspaper and cracking up at the latest news.

Sweetheart, I love you

Donley

You're Still Worthy!

2008-04-17T16:09:00.003-05:00

There is a song on my heart today:

When I am broken - I’ll be praising You
When my spirit soars - I’ll be praising You
When I’m tested and then tried and You seem far from me
My soul will cry “Bless the Lord!”
When I feel I can touch You - I’ll be praising You
When I can’t hear Your voice - I’ll be praising You
You do all things well so I’ve no need to question
In everything I will rejoice!

It is one thing to sing these words when you aren't going through a trial or you haven't really faced any strong opposition. But! When you feel as though it is one of your darkest times and you can still say the words "BLESS THE LORD!" I never want to let go of the hand of God! He is the source of strength, the salvation of my soul, everything you will ever need. The chorus to the song goes on to say:

I will sing hallelujah!
I’ve got breath in my body and Your mercy still shines on me
Hallelujah!
When my heart is breaking - You’re still worthy!
Hallelujah!

No matter what is going on in our lives - God is still worthy of the highest praise. Though it may be hard to acknowledge that fact - the truth doesn't diminish. He is worthy. Regardless.

Sondra

Been A Long Time

2008-04-08T08:50:00.003-05:00

It's been a long time since I've posted anything here. Three months according to one person. Life has been really busy, and honestly, a little hard.

Since I've last posted my grandmother passed away. This was my last living grandparent. I am very grateful for the heritage that she left behind. This past weekend was Texas Women's Conference. Our Music Director, Julie, was asked to be over the music - so a few other ladies and myself were privileged to sing. It was tiring! But it was a wonderful experience. On Friday night a few ladies were asked to pray over the prayer cloths that were passed out to all those in attendance. The woman who led the prayer was Sis Judy Gandy. Sis Gandy is an amazing prayer warrior who has survived cancer. The power in her prayer was as tangible as an electric charged wire. What does this have to do with my grandmother? Well, during her prayer she called out "the dead cannot praise God!," went silent for a moment, and then repeated herself. It got me immediately to thinking about my grandparents. All four were warriors for Christ. They lived their lives praising the most high God and tried to instill that desire into their children and grandchildren. When they passed - so did their praise. The worthiness of God did not diminish, but the praise given Him on this earth did. I do not want that praise to be squelched! It is my desire that their praise continue on in me. I want to carry the torch of praise that my grandparents carried. I want it to be brighter and stronger than when they started their journey. I pray their passion for Christ carries on into my life, and should the Lord tarry, on into the lives of my children.

Sondra

Christmas and New Year's!

2008-01-02T13:22:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!! Oh, and belated Merry Christmas!! :)

Donnie and I had a great Christmas this year. Our first as a married couple! It was a little challenging trying to fit all the family gatherings in. We were sad to miss going to Mimi's this year - but were very happy to see everyone in Marlow! Looking back over it all, I can safely say that we are extremely blessed. Everyone is safe, warm, and happy!

Lots of gifts were exchanged this year - Don and I put a cap on the spending this year (or at least tried to!!). Which meant that we had to get a little creative at times. Over all I think everyone was really pleased with their gifts. Stephanie got us the DELUXE Scrabble game - meaning? It turns! And it has the ridges to HOLD the piece in the square it was intended to be in! I got some wonderful cookbooks that sound oh so yummy and lots of other wonderful gifts. I think Donnie's prize possession this season was the Transformers blanket he got. I know he really enjoyed all the other gifts. But evidently nothing compares to the Optimus Prime. :)

New Year's was fun! We headed over to a friend's house and played games, toasted in the New Year (with apple juice!), and set off fireworks in the street!! :)

Resolutions this year:
1. Use my LOA membership!
2. Read the bible ALL the way through!
...wish me luck!! ;)

I pray everyone had a great holiday season. Remember that no matter what happened last year - it's a brand new start. Let each day be a brand new beginning. Live life to it's fullest.

God bless!

Sondra

I'm An Elf!

2007-12-04T08:51:00.001-06:00

Christmas Elf Name

My Christmas Elf Name is

Get your Christmas Elf Name at JokesUnlimited.com

I did it!

2007-11-30T09:00:00.000-06:00

I did it!! I joined a gym! Tonight I go and get myself weighed and measured and we'll talk about what I need as far as work-outs are concerned! I'm a little excited! :) I just hope Omaha doesn't throw my plans too bad!

Most of the Christmas presents have been purchased. Very excited about that! I don't think I've been this prepared for Christmas in a while!

God is really good, you know? He continues to surprise me. When I think I know what He's doing... He does something so amazing that it throws me for a loop.

I pray that you see the blessings in the small things today. Have a great one!

Sondra

Christmas Music and Working Out

2007-11-29T12:21:00.000-06:00

WOO-HOO!!! It's Christmas music time!! :) I am a firm believer in letting Thanksgiving have its time, so in my house we can't listen to Christmas music until the day after Thanksgiving. And this year - that was hard! The day of Thanksgiving we were driving home from Mimi's in the cold, sleet, yucky weather and I really wanted to listen to some classics. But! I refrained! And now - I can listen 24/7! :)

We've started dieting. Again. And by we, I mean... me. I think I might be past the starving, emotional, no one understands, I'll never be able to eat again part... maybe. :) Donnie is being a trooper. He is being very supportive in all my crazed behavior. Tonight I make an even bigger step than counting calories again. I have an appointment to check out Lady of America. That's right. I'm thinking about joining a gym. What has this world come to??

The Omaha party is coming up!! Lots to do to get ready... with very little time to do it!

I hope everyone had a blessed Thanksgiving!

Sondra

Thanksgiving

2007-11-19T12:15:00.000-06:00

God is really good - do you know that? A blog I like to read challenged the readers to list things they were thankful for. So here we go!

1. Freedom
I am very thankful for all of my freedoms. They become so common that I am guilty of overlooking them. I am thankful for the freedom to worship, the freedom to do what I please, and the freedom to open my mouth and insert my foot!!

2. Family (and my husband!)
They drive me nuts, and I am so glad! :) I am so thankful for the heritage that was passed down to me. I am thankful for the love that is shown in so many ways. I am thankful that I still have most of my family still with me. And I am so very very very thankful for one of the best things that has ever happened to me - my husband.

3. Forgiveness
You may think this one is a little silly, but reference #1!! I do have a tendency to say things before thinking and to do the wrong thing. But! I have a most forgiving husband who somehow overlooks most of my slip-ups! And oh how sweet is the forgiveness of God! Every time I struggle and, again, open my mouth and insert that not-so-tasty foot of mine - He is there to forgive!!

4. Friendship
I am thankful for mi amigos! They keep me on teh straight and narrow. True friends who aren't afraid to tell you "umm, you got a pepper flake riiiiight there - no to the left", who aren't put off by the layer of dust on the picture frames, and who will listen to you complain and just ask for more coffee. They are God's gifts. And I love each and every one of them. In spite of their college football delusions. :)

5. Good food
Do I really need to explain this one??? :) What can I say? I love to eat!!!

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Be thankful for all the little things. They add up. :)

Sondra

Superhero power!

2007-11-15T13:53:00.001-06:00

Sondra's results:
You are Spider-Man!

You are intelligent, witty, a bit geeky and have greatpower and responsibility.

Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz

Bring The Rain by Mercy Me

2007-11-13T09:39:00.000-06:00

I heard this song one day and thought "that's a good tune." As I listened to it again, the words just really grabbed me - "Can circumstances possibly change who I forever am in You?" How many times have I been guilty of thinking that the struggles and the storms in life affect my status as a child of God?? If we, ok - I!, can remember that he is still God through it all and that He is holding us in the palm of HIS hand, then we can truly say - "Bring me anything that brings You glory!!"

Bring The Rain by Mercy Me

I can count a million times
People asking me how I
Can praise You with all that I've gone through
The question just amazes me
Can circumstances possibly
Change who I forever am in You
Maybe since my life was changed
Long before these rainy days
It's never really ever crossed my mind
To turn my back on you, oh Lord
My only shelter from the storm
But instead I draw closer through these times
So I pray

Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory
And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain

I am yours regardless of the clouds
That may loom above because
You are much greater than my pain
You who made a way for me
Suffering your destiny
So tell me whats a little rain

Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
Is the lord God almighty
Is the lord God almighty
I'm forever singing

Fun at the Museum

2007-11-05T18:17:00.000-06:00

Donnie and I went to the Fort Worth Museum of Natural Science and History. Is that what it's called?? Anyway... we had a blast!

Donnie felt the need to tackle the giant FAKE turtle outside the building. I think he was feeling threatened.

I, of course, had to console the poor thing!

We (meaning Donnie) took more pictures... but they are mostly of the bugs, crocs, and other such yucky creatures that were embalmed in jars. The way I see it, I'm doing you a favor by NOT posting them. Trust me. ;)

Sondra

Slacker, School, Scary!!

2007-11-05T09:52:00.001-06:00

I know that it's been oh-so-long since I've blogged. The link in my Favorites has been taunting me "you, bad blogger, you!" My sincerest apologies in not blogging before now!

The church remodel has started! They pulled the pews out last night and ripped up the carpet in the sanctuary. I must admit, I am a little sad. Lots of memories in that church with the way it is. Don't get me wrong - it is a great change, and a needed one! But it's like an old pair of shoes. You've been together so long it's hard to part with it! :) The church will look beautiful when done.

Donnie is getting in to the heavy part of school. The time when professor's are trying to fit everything in that hasn't been covered, and doing it at warp speed. Sleep isn't really a priority with him right now, it's all about studying and getting homework done. He's doing a great job, and I'm really proud of him. Four days no Dr Pepper either. I'd be living on the caffeine if I was him!!

Omaha is coming up within a month! That means we're trying to get ready for the COLD and for the formal. I went "window shopping" with Kerri this weekend. Man it's hard to find a MODEST formal dress! And it's just not pretty trying some of them on! lol I'm going again this weekend... wish me luck!

Have a blessed day!

Sondra

Tired, Allergies, and Rai... zzzz

2007-10-15T10:46:00.000-05:00

Oh so tired today. Yesterday's services were amazing. God moved in a very deep way. Lots of life-changing stuff.

My allergies decided to make their presence known after the evening service, lest I had forgotten they were there. I sneezed so much I couldn't even polite sneeze anymore. Just the blowing your head off stuff. Needless to say, I didn't rest very well last night. The rain this morning, ok - the torrents smashing our windows this morning - didn't help the wide awakeness that needed to be there in order to function.

Good news? My back-up is training today and doing my job for me. My purpose at work today? Filing.

My purpose at home tonight? Laundry. :) Poor Donnie... maybe I'll get it all done this time before he runs out of clean t-shirts.

"I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower." Psalm 18:1-2

God is everything you could possibly need. With Him on your side - there is nothing to fear or dread. Isn't that just awesome?

Have a great week!

Sondra

P.S. Hope you had a great birthday Steph!! :) Thank you for sharing your peanut butter cheesecake!

Short, Sweet, To The Point

2007-10-11T13:25:00.000-05:00

Good afternoon readers!! :)

I hope everything is going well with all of you. There really isn't much to blog about. Life is pretty normal. Which is a great thing. I've been able to spend some quality time with my hubby here lately which has been WONDERFUL. I love just being with him. Whether it's just reading while he studies or going on walks together.

Have a most blessed week. Remember - life is short. Make the most of it.

Sondra

Satisfaction or Disappointment??

2007-10-08T12:15:00.000-05:00

I just want to say for the record for those die hard fans out there.

I was disappointed in the play of the Longhorns this weekend. They came into the game heavy underdogs. Everyone, even my staunch Horn fans, believed that we were in for a beating.

Aside from a few sloppy plays, Texas came to the Shoot-out with heart. They showed their critics that they wouldn't be the push-overs everybody had penned them to be. The blow-out was overted. Way to play hard Horns!!

Am I disappointed in the loss?...Yes.

Was I satisfied with the result?...Absolutely.

Do I look forward to next year?...Bring it!!! :-)

Donnie

Red Rover or Red River?

2007-10-08T09:01:00.000-05:00

Final Score

2007-10-08T08:47:00.000-05:00

28-21

Sooner... Oops, I mean, Sondra

Realizations (Well, duh! Moments)

2007-10-05T12:25:00.000-05:00

Well, God is still good and life is still BUSY!! :)

I have had a few realizations of late. Or well, duh! moments as I like to call them.

First, I don't like wearing shoes. The first opportunity to take them off and be free - I take it! Of course this is all contingent upon the surface that I will be walking in said freedom. Nonetheless, I do enjoy walking/sitting/standing barefoot!

The second realization I had was how much I don't listen. The Lord has shown me a few scriptures throughout the last month or so. Powerful scriptures. I wasn't sure how they applied exactly to my life at the time, but appreciated them anyway. Over the last couple weeks, I must admit that I was letting life get to me. Life was just bringing me down and I was to a breaking point. Wednesday night was a healing service, one that I desperately needed and am very grateful for. Saying all of that, I happened upon the scriptures God had given me. Low and behold - they were concerning the very issues I had been allowing to rule my life the last couple of weeks! It makes me wonder - how different would I have approached life and situations had I actually applied those verses rather than simply writing them down and storing them. Hmm.

And thirdly, I love coffee. I've been trying to stay away from it, ofr at least a little while. And last night I had a cup of that sweet, wonderful, yummy nectar. Oh how I've missed it. Three words: Pumpkin Spice Latte. Sigh.

Hope everyone is having a great October thus far!!

Sondra

I belong...

2007-09-28T16:46:00.000-05:00

he he he :)

You Belong in 1950

You're fun loving, romantic, and more than a little innocent. See you at the drive in!

What Year Do You Belong In?

Sondra

Coping Skills

2007-09-20T13:28:00.000-05:00

September 20th - and I've only posted twice? This must be remedied! It's been a bit of a hectic month and blogging has been far from my mind.

When I am stressed, I find myself blocking things out only focusing on matters that aren't really important. Anything to keep the "real" thoughts from invading my mind. Those thoughts that will make me sad, force me to be an adult (yucky!!), bring the cruelity of reality to my doorstep. If I don't think about it, it isn't there - right?? Can't I just bury my head and it go away for good?? Wrong and, umm, no. All I end up doing is postponing the inevitable. Don't get me wrong. I think that you shouldn't worry and dwell on the negative. However, I do think it is unhealthy to not process what is happening in your life. I do believe what I'm missing are... coping skills. :) Oh, I'm working on them - believe me. And I probably am better than I give myself credit for. It's just so much easier to go numb. But, that's not how God wants me to live my life. And it isn't how I want to live my life.

So, tell me - how do you cope? What is your release? How do you process things that are going on in your life? Do you talk to your honey? Do you write? Or do you simply pray? I'm actually really curious - so, please, leave some comments!

Thanks for stoppin' by! ;)

Sondra

Team DUH!

2007-09-20T12:58:00.000-05:00

Something Donnie has a tendency to do... a lot... is state the obvious. :)

One day after stating the oh-so-incredible obvious, I replied "Why THANK you Captain Obvious! Without you I would have NEVER known!!" To this my quick-witted husband replied in his best super-hero voice, "You're welcome Sidekick Sarcasm!"

Creating? Team Duh. And we are here to SAVE the day!

Smell the corn yet?

Sondra aka Sidekick Sarcasm

Do I get a costume now??? SWEET!!!!!

Week in a Nutshell

2007-09-14T09:28:00.000-05:00

It has been quite the week. Let me start at the beginning...

The Luau last Thursday went beautifully! Not a single complaint was heard. One thing I didn't realize though, was that my mother wasn't feeling well that night.

Saturday OU beat Miami. :)

Brad and Kerri's shower was Sunday night, and it was great. Very pretty and lots of cool stuff. :)

On Monday I called my mother and she was still sick. She had violent chills that would swing to sweats and was running a temperature. I took her to the doctor that afternoon and he suggested we go to the ER. The reasoning was to get some fluids in her (she was dehydrated) and to get a chest x-ray to rule out pneumonia. While they could give her an IV in the office, they wouldn't be able to run the x-ray so we went there to "save time." When she sat down in the bed at the ER, her heart started to race. Her pulse was jumping back and forth from 180 to 220. And it was beating in an irregular rhythm. This had the doctors and nurses very worried. They got her started on an IV and did some x-rays. Due to the medication they started her on, she had to be moved to the ICU. Her heart rate came down to the 130-150 range, but was still irregular.

Tuesday was much of the same until about 3pm. Pastor and Chad came by and prayed with her. After they left my father was sitting with her and noticed that her heart rate dropped to 82 and stayed. Solid. And was regular. It's called sinus rhythm. Look it up - it's an interesting read. This was right after they got the call telling them they got a house they were praying for.

Wednesday she was moved to a regular room and they ran a stress test on her. There was something on the stress test that had the doctors worried, so they ordered an angiogram for Thursday morning. Needless to say, we were all pretty worried at this point.

Thursday morning they ran the angiogram - NO BLOCKAGE!! After having to lay still for three hours, she was able to get up and move around. At seven-ish they released her!

For those who are wondering about the possibility of pneumonia - they had been giving her antibiotics for it and it is gone. The concern now is her blood thinness so she won't have a clot in the future.

God is so good. And He truly answers prayers. Sometimes it's so easy to forget all that He's done. But then He does it again. Oh, what an awesome God we serve!

Labor, Luau, FOOTBALL!

2007-09-06T13:43:00.001-05:00

Oh, what a slacker I am! It was brought to my attention that I hadn't blogged in over a week. For shame! :)

Things are going fairly well in the Gandee household. Labor Day weekend was so relaxing! We left the apartment once to run to the bank and QT. And that was it! The apartment is very clean as a result. It was nice to just stay home and get things done!

Tonight is the Luau for the ladies at the church. I am nervous! I want things to be so perfect. We are praying for a fun, relaxing night for the ladies.

College Football season is upon us! I'm excited, but it's definitely going to be interesting this year. I want to support my husband. Too bad we support opposing teams!!! Sorry honey! ;) Saturday was the first game - 79-10 against UNT. Poor Leah... of course, I don't think she's really there for the football anyway...

Sondra

BOOMER SOONERS!

Officially a year older

2007-08-28T13:51:00.001-05:00

So - I had a birthday. And it was one of the best birthdays. Thursday night Donnie gave me my presents. YEA! Loved them ALL! I got a large muffin tin. SO EXCITED! He made breakfast and took me for a pedicure and to get my eyebrows done. I was putty when I left. Then he took me for lunch to Buca di Beppo. I love love love love this place. The food is just amazing. Then, to walk off our lunch, we walked around the mall. I got new black heels. :) That night was a Youth Rally that we praise sang for. And let me tell you. God moved in such a powerful way. He moved in our youth group and I pray changed some lives. The youth needed it before heading off for school.

Saturday we had dinner with my family. Awesome presents, oh-so-yummy steaks, WONDERFUL pie and cake, and lots of fun playing games. Nathan isn't that good at Pit. Poor guy. hehehehe I have a few pics - I just need to download them from my camera!

Over all - it was a really good birthday. I think the best present was being able to spend so much time with Donnie and my family. That and watching those girls pray on Friday night and Sunday, and being able to pray with them. I'm thankful for the blessings God has given. Isn't He awesome? :)

Sondra

2007-08-28T13:13:00.001-05:00

Differences

2007-08-23T09:49:00.000-05:00

Isn't love grand? :) This was from rehearsal night. Everyone wore their teams colors. The back of my shirt says "BRIDE" his says "GROOM". It was a really fun night. We still get comments when we were our team colors, "You're married?? To a (Longhorn/Sooner)??" "Wow... that's love!" I think Donnie gets a little too much of a kick out of it. Planning it out. "Honey - why don't you wear your Sooners shirt?" Like it makes him look like good or something... let the crimson get all over you baby!! ;) Love you?

Sondra

Love transcends all college football affiliations... at least until October...

Perseverance & Pure Joy

2007-08-21T14:28:00.001-05:00

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4

I don't know about you - but when I'm going through a trial joy is not my knee-jerk reaction. It is something that has to grow on me. I don't shout when I realize that money is going to be tight. I don't start praising God when my car breaks down. And I definitely don't start worshipping when I am working with difficult personalities. But the Word says to consider it joy when you face trials. My faith must be tested so that I can develop perseverance. To persevere is to persist in spite of counterinfluences, oppostition, and discouragement. Now, that doesn't exactly spur joy in many hearts. However - if you read on the Word also states...

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." James 1:12

Wow! Now THAT! That is worthy of joy! I want to be one of those Christians that lives these verses! You've seen them. The strong saints that seem like nothing shakes them. A storm blows in to their life - and it just makes them dig their heels in more. They see the big picture. They know that if they can get through the trials, God has promised them eternal life!

Remember - God is good - no matter what the situation is. We may not see His hand - but He is working nonetheless. If we will just hold on - the reward is a crown of life!

Sondra

Joy

2007-08-17T09:18:00.000-05:00

A blog I like to read posed the question "what brings you joy?" So, I decided to answer! :)

What brings me joy...

Joy: 'joi Function: noun
1a : the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires b : the expression or exhibition of such emotion
2 : a state of happiness or felicity
3 : a source or cause of delight

Music - Good quality music. Whether it be jazz, gospel, country, alternative. Anything that is true talent, not just good mixing skills on the producers part. But when an artist can sing, purely. Or when a musician can play that instrument in just a way that you feel the song. Not just hear it, but you can feel the words. Feel the music. THAT brings me joy.

Organization - Sad, is it not? But when I've worked hard (or not so hard) and things are all in order and organized. I get a sense of joy.

Moments with my loved ones - falling asleep in my husband's arms, having breakfast with my husband, the moment Krista gets a joke (love you girlie!), the long talks with my mother, the inside jokes with my sister (do YOU know WHY?), the inside jokes with Mandy (RUUUUNNN!!)...

I've noticed that the things in my life that bring me joy are not things at all. They are people, moments. It's the feeling that I am in the will of God. It's when I am listening to song and I feel God speaking to me. It's when I am spending time and building relationships. It's the feelings of accomplishment.

Psalms 51:10-13 says "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you."

As I think about it - yes, all of the above things bring me joy. They are all wonderful in their own right - but what brings me a true joy? God's salvation. The peace of His love. For when I have a Godly joy... oh how wonderful! It is the only thing that will help you through the storms of life and will give you the strength to lead others to His sweet love. The joy that comes from Him will give you life!

Sondra

Busy Life

2007-08-16T08:48:00.000-05:00

Busy busy busy!! There is a lot going on right now.

Kerri's shower is Saturday, so I'm really excited about that. We, hopefully!, are going to have loads of fun! I'm hoping a lot of people show, but not more than what I've bought plates for. lol

The next event will be the Ladies Night. If SisB wants me as involved as I hope - I will STILL be busy! :) Lots of great plans for that. Keep your fingers crossed!

My birthday is next FRIDAY! I'm not sure whether to be excited or depressed. I've gotten the comments "well - wait til you're 30" or "wait til you hit 40" and higher. People. How did you feel when you turned 26? How did you feel when you turned 25? Let me have my moment! It's an odd time in life. I wish I could say that 25 was the best year of my life, but I can't. It was hard. Very, very hard. There were a lot of trials, a lot of tears. Yes, I got married and that was one of the best things to have happened in my life. But the journey up to that day, and the journey after that day has had it's very rocky moments. 25 was a turning point. I'm a little excited, that nervous kind of excitement, about what 26 has in store. It's not that I feel old (though I kind of do) - I just feel... like I'm turning a new leaf. 26 has to be good... it adds up to 8! :)

Enjoy your life. Don't waste a single day saying "what if" or "I should have". Live saying "this is what I have done".

Sondra

Hooray for MUFFINS

2007-08-14T08:49:00.001-05:00

I got muffins!! :) Donnie got up this morning and made me blueberry muffins. Not only were there muffins - but sliced strawberries and cream cheese as well! I have the best husband in the world. And no, not just because he makes me muffins. That's just icing on the cake! :)

It will be a busy week. Kerri's shower is Saturday (I'm so excited!) and there is still some to be done! I'll be busy baking and making. Two things I love to do. I went shopping last night and got her present - I do hope she likes it. If not, I'll keep it! ;) j/k!! It is super cute and looks super comfortable though.

Thought for the day:

If at first you do succeed, try to hide your astonishment!

Sondra

Muffins & Keys

2007-08-09T16:34:00.000-05:00

My alarm went off this morning at 7AM. Now, this is a daily occurrence for me so there shouldn't have been a problem with it... right? WRONG. I remember snuggling up to Donnie asking him to make muffins (yes - it was a conscious request. I wanted muffins!). The next thing I know Donnie is booming "BABY!! It's ten til EIGHT!" Somehow, in my muffin-consuming thoughts, I had inadvertently turned my alarm OFF instead of snoozing. I came flying up out of the bed and was dressed (including my hair) in ten minutes.

After this marathon dressing I walked in to the kitchen and on the counter sat cinnamon toast. Not muffins, but equally tasty. He had made breakfast, and put together my lunch for the day while I was rushing around. Through all this - I am not fully awake. (In fact, I don't think I really woke up til about 10am. But that's beside the point.) Donnie walks me to the car like he does every morning, kisses my goodbye, and I pull away.

When I pull up to the stop sign by the apartments I do the dutiful look left, look right. Except when I look left, what do I see? My husband running full speed down the sidewalk. My first thought was, "he didn't tell me he was planning on running this morning." My second thought, "why is he barefoot?" A few seconds later it dawns on me that he might be running towards... me. Evidently in the trip to walk me to my car he had locked the door. With my keys. The very ones hanging from my ignition.

We are brilliant.

The good news? I was only 5 minutes late. :)

Sondra

Joke of the day:

Two muffins were in an oven. The first muffin says to the other muffin, "MAN! It's getting hot in here!" The second muffin turns and replies, "AGH!! A TALKING MUFFIN!!"

Overcoming!

2007-08-07T14:41:00.000-05:00

It has been an interesting week!

Thursday I woke up with a sore throat, no bueno. I ended up leaving work early - what can I say? I'm weak.

The Shift Conference was the next night and I was on the praise team. Poco did a beautiful job when my voice decided to start giving out! God gave me enough strength to get through the service - and a wonderful service it was! Sis Angel played and sang with us since Julie was out of town. Man - God really blessed her with an awesome voice. She rocks. Danelle has formed a fan club for her. Danelle is the pres, I'm the VP, Mandy is the Treasurer. Donnie ended up getting off work just in time for Sis McLaughlin to grab him up to sing. He's so good. Instant in season and out, huh baby? ;)

Saturday was FULL! I helped Mandy and Krista pack, and when Donnie got off work we headed over to my mom's to help her pack. By the end of the day we were both worn out!

When Sunday rolled around I felt worse. The services were amazing though. God is pouring out His spirit!! We had four baptized and two received the Holy Ghost!! Sunday night Jason was supposed to preach - but the choir decided to preach instead. I enjoyed the service, but I was a little bummed. I'm excited to hear Jason preach! I am confident that he and God will do an amazing job.

Monday? I only worked a half day - I was SICK. Krista came through her surgery with flying colors - WOO HOO! But Donnie ended up having to cook dinner. It was good though. Not that I'm surprised or anything... ;)

Tuesday - I'm better!!! :) I feel so much better today - and I know it's because of prayer. This kind of things lingers in my body for some reason, but today I feel alert and ready to face the world. Of course - this lingering cough wants to face the world too!! Stupid monkey.

Please pray. My former pastor suffered a heart attack Saturday night and is in a coma. By the time his wife found him he had stopped breathing. The doctors are saying that there is brain damage and that the future is not looking good. But. I know a healer - and whatever form of healing God sees fit to perform - we ask Him to do it!

Sondra

Oh, How the Mighty Have Fallen

2007-08-01T15:18:00.000-05:00

I, once again, have been shown just how much of a competitor I can be. Even when comes to a simple game of scrabble, I find myself on the losing end.(rarely ;-)

I had the evening off last night. A rare thing, in and of itself. She made the most incredible dinner last night. She also made cinnamon rolls for dessert. Let me tell you something, these were some melt in your mouth goodies too!

Anyway, we had a bit of down time last night so we took advantage of it and challenged one another to yet another game of scrabble. In a previous game, I had claimed victory. I was feeling bold, over confident, and arrogant perhaps... Guys, I lost my shirt in that game. She came back with pent-up aggression and just completely creamed me.

She is such a graceful winner. She could have rubbed it in but no. She simply said two words..."next time".

I love you baby

Donnie

Friends and Baseball

2007-07-30T16:31:00.000-05:00

Donnie and I joined a couple of couples for a Frisco Roughriders game this past weekend. I don't think I watched much of the game, too much talking that needed to be done! But it was a LOT of fun - in spite of Marley's driving and trying to freeze me out of the vehicle.

I am thankful for the leadership that God has placed over our lives. He knew just the right time to bring me into my church, He knew the right time to open my eyes to Donnie, and He knew just the right time to place me in the job I have. Even though we may not see what all He has in store - we can rest in the knowledge that it will be for our good.

Sondra

Dork

2007-07-27T14:07:00.000-05:00

My husband is a dork. And I absolutely love him. :) There is just no one else that can make me laugh and smile like he does.

Oh, and he's a pretty good bass player too. Isn't he handsome? :)

I love you starshine.

Sondra

Scrabble

2007-07-25T12:46:00.000-05:00

He beat me! I can't believe it! Donnie felt brave enough to challenge me to a Scrabble game last night. And I think he cheated. My father has taught me a rule for Scrabble. Always keep a U in case the Q raises it's ugly head. Well - my lovely husband had drawn the Q, and I had drawn every last U in the game. I felt safe in using them all. A hand or two later he only has consonants, so he dumps his hand, pulling a new one. I just so happen to pull the Q on the next go around! Let me tell you - it is very difficult to form a word using Q without the letter U! Needless to say, he went out with me holding the Q. Final score? 230 to 228.

Babe - 2 out of 3? :)

Sondra

Weekend Bliss!

2007-07-23T16:48:00.000-05:00

Well, we had a filled weekend! And it was a lot of fun. Friday night was the Youth Rally at Bro McGaha's. The place was packed! Lots of young people, and the minister did a phenomenal job. He spoke on commitment to God and I know it touched this "old married lady's" heart. :)

Saturday was FULL! Don went off to work and I headed to my parents. Steph, my mom, and I printed, rolled, and tied invitations until Donnie got off. We had lunch, I made potato salad, and we headed to Brad's. There we addressed invitations with about 12 other people. I got to hold little Brianna - and she is a doll! She's incredibly sweet and just the cutest when she yawns!! :)

Sunday was amazing. Church was PACKED! God moved in such amazing ways in both services. One was baptized!! And I know many, many more were touched. We are starting to help out with breakfast in Kidzone the 3rd Sunday of the month. Let me tell you, it wasn't fun being at the church at 8am, but it was fun once I woke up! :) It's a great ministry that I'm starting to get excited about!

I hope everyone had a great weekend! Don't waste your week looking forward to next weekend though. Look for ways to be an encouragement to people around you. You'd be amazed what it will do for YOU. :)

Sondra

Yum, Fun, Yawn!

2007-07-19T08:52:00.000-05:00

I got ICE CREAM!! We went to Braum's last night after service and I got a single scoop of Cookies n' Cream ice cream in a waffle cone. And my was it good. Worth every stinkin' calorie!

I am very thankful for the friendships I have. God has put wonderful people who are filled with Godly character into our lives. It is so nice and uplifting to be able to sit and talk with these friends. Knowing that the conversation will reflect Him, even though we may just be sitting telling dumb jokes! coughChadcough :)

I woke up extremely tired this morning. Again, not sleeping well. Please say a prayer. I need to be able to function at work and not have a short fuse with my husband. But the lack of sleep is making it increasingly difficult to do both! Rest. All I need is true rest.

Today is what you make it. Act that way.

Sondra

Allergies, Chicken, Ice Cream

2007-07-18T09:09:00.001-05:00

I love my husband's cologne. And I should, since I picked it out! And I really like the perfume that he has picked out for me. However. On the days that my allergies are screaming - they both drive my nose in to a TIZZY! Today is one of those days. My allergies are driving me NUTS! It is like a thousand little hairs are tickling the end of my nose. I can't stop sneezing and I'm squinting. Not sure why I'm squinting, but I am! :)

Yesterday was our 4 month anniversary! So what did we do to celebrate? I tried a new recipe! Chicken marsala. It was actually really good. I only had minor problems with the chicken browning. I don't think I had quite enough butter in the pan. The mushrooms soaked it all up. But it is definitely a keeper recipe. Donnie even liked it, and he's not a huge fan of mushrooms. I served it over penne pasta that was tossed with a little olive oil, garlic powder (didn't have any real stuff!), and parmesan cheese. And on the side - broccoli with lemon juice, fresh ground black pepper, and (of course) a little garlic powder. A successful meal in my mind! The only problem - no dessert! Of course, I think Don and I are a little desserted out. I made a chocolate cake that we've been munching on for a couple of days. Needless to say, I was tired of cake last night. So... no dessert! :)

Ice cream. I just want some good ice cream. Not the frozen yogurt stuff. Not the fake. I want Braum's. Butter Pecan. Mint Chocolate Chip. The good stuff. Maybe I can talk Donnie into going to Braum's after church tonight. :) hehehehe

Sondra

Desk!

2007-07-17T08:57:00.000-05:00

Life is pretty normal right now. And that is a good thing! Donnie and I are currently looking for a cheap desk. Stephanie and we are thinking about swapping computers for good, which would mean a desktop for us. We love the thought and having one (we just didn't use the laptop as a laptop!) but right now it's just sitting in the floor! So, if you know of a cheap desk (preferably a dark wood) :) let us know! We did find one at BB&B that we really like, and - bonus! - we still have a gift card there! Tell me what you think of it...

http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/EnlargeProduct.asp?SKU=14553924&ZMPHT=380/6368014553924P.JPG

Sondra

What Dreams May Come

2007-07-12T13:31:00.000-05:00

Captains Log...Stardate 71207

I've learned a new language to this human masterpiece called marriage. It is interesting how your wife's dreams can totally affect her mood in the mornings. There are times that I want to crawl back into the bed and wake up again. It's only when I hear the story behind these dreams that I begin to understand exactly what makes her function.

Sondra and I enjoy spending time together in the mornings. With our complicated schedules, it really has become a source of strength for both of us. Its when you awaken to icy shores of a conversational Antarctica that things become interesting. It doesn't matter how much clothing you attempt to put on, it doesn't seem to help.

Its only when you can look her in the eye and sincerely ask her what her dream was about that the ice begins to thaw. You'll find out, that while in her dreamland, you did or said something, or even looked at her in a way displeasing. You did something to really torque her over. I found out that I did that very thing. It was only after breakfast that I got the story straightened out. I would have been upset at me too.

With each passing day, I learn a little more about the female psyche. It truly is the final frontier.

Donnie

Please forgive the Star Trek references. I was in one of those thought patterns.

Sleep, Exercise, Food

2007-07-11T08:43:00.000-05:00

Good MORNING! Today is a great day. Nothing special about it really... just woke up in a fairly decent mood. I've been having trouble sleeping and for the past two nights, I slept the ENTIRE night!! :) It's very exciting, at least to me!

Change MUST occur! Since the wedding I have put on almost 15 pounds. I'm thinking I might be the typical newlywed... Donnie is attempting to motivate me to exercise. I'm hoping he will actually succeed this time. I know, I know... it's up to me to want the change and to want to exercise. But tell me - who really wants to exercise? You sweat, you hurt, you sweat some more... it just doesn't sound appealing to this chica. Oh well!! No pain, no gain I guess!! I'll keep you guys updated on how the progress is!

On the flip side - we had a date last night. :) We ate at Bone Daddy's and then went grocery shopping. lol Great date, huh? It was actually a lot of fun. The food at Bone Daddy's is incredible. Great brisket. Though the pecan pie was just NOT as good as my Aunt Leota's. ;) Everything else was super good.

Sondra

The Joys of Family!

2007-07-09T10:48:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the new Gandee blog! Our first post!! And Donnie isn't even around... :) I figured we might as well succumb to peer pressure and get one. I'll try to post more frequently than my previous attempts at blogging!

This past weekend was the CNR Reunion at Canyon Camp in Hinton, OK. Donnie's first Nickell Reunion as an OFFICIAL Nickell! It was loads of fun but we are both VERY worn out. After the four hour drive up there we talked, ate, hiked, sang, played games (I whipped them in Phase10!!)... it was a lot of fun. But there was very little sleep in the midst of it all. And then there was of course - the four hour drive back! :)

For those who are acquainted with the Nickell clan - you know I have some family members that are... interesting. They can be loads of fun and yet test my patience at almost every turn. And while I love them dearly it is sometimes difficult to be around them. Perhaps we are just a little too similar. :) In one of those more stressing moments this weekend, I responded in a way that I shouldn't have (i.e. rashly and with a little bit of an attitude). In my reading the next day God showed me this scripture:

"A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult. Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Prov 12:16 & 18

Proverbs is full of wonderful words of wisdom - each one stepping on my toes at some point!! I long to be closer to God and bring others closer to Him, but that small member seems to have other plans!! My "wisdom" is quick to judge and faulty, in a flash of annoyance or anger my tongue can cut and destroy those whom I truly love. God, help us... ME... to reflect you and be full of YOUR wisdom. Bridle our tongues so that through Your word and wisdom we may minister Your true healing.

Sondra