Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Our house, Our rules, Our kids toys!

When you come over to our house I want you to feel as welcome and relaxed as possible. If you have children and they come with you I want them to enjoy playing with my kids and their toys. I do NOT however want my kids toys broken by your kids. Is it too much to ask that you teach your children how to play gently with other peoples toys and if you happen to break it, tell an adult so we are aware of it.

You are welcome to come over as well as your kids and they can play but they are going to respect everything in our home. If you have not taught your children how to conduct themselves at someone elses house rest-assure that I will tell them. You may allow them to break things in your home but it will NOT happen in ours. I do understand that things accidently get broken but it isn't an accident everytime.

So come on over! Eat, drink, laugh, relax, etc., but please respect.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

A year already

Just like others, I have those days that I wish would hurry up and get here or times in my life that I wish would speed up. The truth is though, time is going by so fast. And each passing year seems quicker than the last. '

This past Sept. 1st we have been in our house for a year. Other than painting a few walls, decorating, and putting on a new roof, nothing much more has been done. I have plenty of plans/ideas that I want to do but all in due time. This can be hard for me because I'm a "want it done yesterday" type of person.

During this next year I want to paint and update the bathrooms. We also need to put new windows on the house. That will be another big expense like the roof was but it has to be done. After that I want to paint(or put siding) the house a sage, or hunter, or olive green and do the white shutters and white porch in a yellowish-cream color. I think it will really warm up the place and add LOTS of charm as well as curb appeal. Of course doing all this will also be a big expense so it might be a couple more years before we do it.

In 4 more days our second son, Asher, will be a 1 year old. Now when I think about that it really seems to have been a fast year. Asher's name means "happy/blessed" and he is one happy baby boy. Other than the occasional fuss with his brother he is always quick to give a smile and is pretty much laid back.

My wife and sons are exactly what God knew I needed. They have changed my life in so many ways and though some days are longer/harder than others, I wouldn't trade them for anything.

Remember blogger-world...it is SO easy to focus on the bad things in life but MUCH better and relaxing to focus on the good things. Remember to always give God the glory he deserves. Praise him in the good times and bad. Take it all to the Lord FIRST(make your requests/concerns known to him).

Be blessed!

Monday, August 15, 2011

Something in my spirit...

When I stepped out on the deck this morning the cool air of 65 degrees brushed across my face and something inside of me leaped.

There is something about Autumn(fall) that does something to my spirit. Every year these feelings arise in my soul and I have never been able to explain them. This year I intend to find out what those feelings are all about.

There are so many hopes, dreams, and visions in my life that I want to see come to pass. And then there is Eric. I am my own worse enemy. I start something and then tell myself that I can't do this or that. I start believing the lies of satan. NOT anymore! I am tired of having this feeling that I can't place.

Lord, show me this Season. Move in me!

Here is a song that sums it all up:

Thursday, July 28, 2011

The Shabby Chic headboard

The Headboard is finished and I couldn't be more pleased with it! LOVE IT!!! Enjoy the pics!









The finished product!

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

The More I Seek You

God,

It's your child, Eric. My heart is heavy right now. I don't understand so many things. Your word tells us that your ways are higher than our ways. That your thoughts are greater than our thoughts. But Lord, I don't understand the death of a child.

Father I ask that you comfort the Repass family in the loss of their daughter. I know that she is dancing with you and singing praises to you. I know that she is hurting no more, from anything, but her family and friends that are left behind have a hurt that is so strong right now and it is a hurt that only you can take away. Wrap your arms around them Father. Never let them go.

Lord, I also pray protection over my children from all harm. That you will be with them and protect them all the days of their lives. And as I seek you more teach me your ways and give me understanding to the things that I do not understand at all.

Friday, July 22, 2011

Marriage

Did any of us really know what we were getting into when we got married? I know we all had our own thoughts, ideas, visions, stories, etc about marriage. We all heard about the ups and downs, the good and bad, and of course know the whole speech that the preacher read...for better, worse, sickness, health, etc, etc, etc.

There is a saying that goes, "Babies change everything!" I believe the saying is true for marriage as well. "Marriage changes everything!"

Our main view of marriage is that of our parents, guardian, or whomever raised us. It is from our upbringing that we learn really how to act or react in every situation in life; either good or bad. It is how we learn to treat our spouse in our marriage. But no matter how we were raised and what good or bad examples we saw, we are the ones responsible for the decisions/actions that we make in our own lives.

Jennifer and I had two different kinds of upbringing. I come from a family of divorce and Jennifer and her parents will be celebrating their 37th anniversary this year. Both of our upbringing has taught us many things in our own marriage and reminds us E-V-E-R-Y-D-A-Y that the two of us could not love, laugh, cry, or live together if it wasn't for the love of Jesus that we both have in our hearts and the commitment we made to Him and each other 5 years ago today...July 22, 2006!

Happy Anniversary Baby! I do love you more today than 5 years ago. You truly are what God had for me and I am go grateful that he brought you into my life. Through all of our ups and downs, ins and outs, and 2 boys later, years you are still the one that I love lying down next to at night and putting my hand on you while you sleep just to let you know that I am there and loving that you are there for me.

The song that was sung at our wedding, where you walked down the isle to, is still one of my favorites and each time I hear it my heart and mind is flooded with thoughts of our wedding day! I love you Baby!

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Shabby Chic

I have a confession to make:

I am a Guy and I love to decorate!

There, I said it!

With that said, one of my favorite kind of styles is Shabby Chic. I love French Country too. I have seldom decorated using the style though. You will see in this pic a little piece of Shabby Chic where I painted a set of shutters and made them look a little distressed looking:


Doing that is just the begining. I am currently working on a project that, even if you don't love it, I will. Since Jennifer and I got married we have not had a headboard for our bed and really haven't had the need for one until we moved into our new house. So, stay tuned for pics of our new headboard. And just a side note...this Friday we will be celebrating our 5 year Anniversary!

After I finish with the headboard I have a few other pieces of furniture that I will redo. And I have an idea for our foyer and for our bathroom. I know, I know, I am a glutten for punishment. As if I don't have enough to keep me busy I add more stuff to my to-do list. Jennifer has never had to give me a "honey-do" list. I make my own!

So...who's ready to see the new headboard? Stay tuned...

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

It's the new internet Craz!

If you fall while going up the stairs...just Plank with it!



Enjoy more people Planking at:

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Kingwood-Plankers/135693973179511

A Wiggly Good Time!

My little Corbster(Corban) is growing up so fast. I would be lying if I told you that I didn't just get misty-eyed while thinking about just how fast. It's just that time really does seem to go by faster when you have kids and it is so hard to try to slow down and capture every single moment of each and every day. But thank goodness, with the help of cameras, we can capture as many as we want to.

Corban L-O-V-E-S the Wiggles! LOVE may even be an understatement. Either way, he loves them and their tour this year lead them to Atlanta, GA. So we bought tickets and waited for the day to arrive; which was yesterday 07-12-11.

Here are just a few pics; trust me there were MANY more taken:







During the event Corban sat in either my or Jennifer's lap. He didn't get up and dance around during the show like he does when he is at home. The looks on his face throughout showed that he was enjoying it though.

Jennifer and I are very selective on what we let our boys watch and what things we buy our boys. We are not ones to spoil our children. Since we are selective we were more than happy to Make Corban's Day with a trip to see The Wiggles LIVE!!! And I also want to say that I am blessed to work for a company that understands that Family comes before the Job so I had no worry about not being at work yesterday.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Count your many Blessings...

...name them one by one!

Can you do it? Can you count ALL the Blessings that God has given to you? Can you count ALL the times that He has provided for you, cared for you, kept you from harms way; knowingly and unknowingly?!

There is NO WAY that you can count EVERYTHING that God has done for you because all that He has done outnumbers the grains of sand! Yup, He's done that much!

We are blessed beyond measure! Remember that as you go through your day.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Sick Babies

The boys have been fighting sickness lately. Corban is just congested again but Asher has been fighting some kind of harder fever-virus that ranges from highs up to 101.5 and causes congestion and diarrhea. It is going on 1 1/2 weeks today and he has been to the doctor twice. All they tell us to do is keep him on tylenol and motrin and keep him hydrated. Thanks for that little nugget of information at $40.00 each visit! I'm glad you got "Dr." in front of your name. I would have never figured that one out.

Asher goes next Tuesday for his 9 month check up. I really hope he is better before then.

I hate it when the boys are sick. I do not understand why babies/kids get sick. Or not why they get sick but honestly, "why does God allow them to get sick?" If they are babies they can't tell you that they are sick and it is just pitiful when they are so little and you see them hurting and can't do anything for them. It breaks my heart. It frustrates me too because I just don't think they should get sick.

Father, please heal Asher and Corban from their sickness in Jesus' name, amen.

I know it is just a virus, cold, fever, etc and I know there are other parents who have children with far more worse medical conditions and it really hurts me to see them too. So I know I have a lot to be thankful for since my boys sickness is so minor compared to others, but it doesn't mean I have to like it.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Prayer Warriors UNITE!

I am not going to give the real name of my friend that needs to be covered in prayer right now and for months to come. I will call my friend Pat! God knows what the situation is and I need each of you prayer warriors to join in unity with me that God will show Himself to Pat. Put Pat on your daily prayer list.

Seek your hearts, allow God to speak to you on behalf of Pat! Pray without ceasing!

Certain things to pray for would be: comfort, peace, JOY, understanding and questions that Pat has to be answered by God.

Pat is a christian but satan is doing what satan does best, coming to try to kill, steal, and destroy Pat.

PRAY!

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Newly Painted Dining Room

To finish it off we will be getting a new light fixture and I am still thinking about putting a chair rail around the room. The kitchen and eat in area have it so...

Getting rid of the purple:




The curtains still match...which is a good thing!

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Is this thing on...tap, tap, tap!

So I haven't posted in a while...bite me! Okay, don't really bite me. I get enough of that from my two year old. He pokes, bites, hits, throws things at me, etc. I feel like I am being bullied. I am constantly saying, "stop it, don't do that, quit!" My Son, the bully. :-/ Okay, he's really not a bully but I do wonder sometimes.

Corban, my two year old is my smart little boy! He can count, say his ABC's, and other than the bullying mentioned above, he gives great hugs and kisses, randomly says I love you, which even to a Dad, melts your heart. While saying the blessing over our food he is quick to get to the Amen part because he knows he can eat after that. He is my Son, what can I say!

Corban is also my helper. Most of the time I reluctantly let him help me do something just because I know how much he loves to help; even though I know it will involve me having to clean up or correct even a bigger mess than what was already there.

Your Children teach you things and my Son Corban is teaching me Patience. He is full of love and gives love freely but as already mentioned, he is my Son so of course there is patience that is needed to deal with me...I mean him. ;-)

Now my second Son, Asher! He is now 8 months old. The boy wakes up with a smile and goes to sleep with a smile. He loves his big brother, even after his brother has knocked him in the head to the point that Jennifer had to call the nurse. Asher is our more quiet one, unless he's hungry. (look-a-there, another son of mine that loves food!)

Asher is a happy baby. He is and has been our sleeper from the time he was born. Yes, he has a few nights here and there but nothing like the way Corban kept us up. He is about to start crawling which is a little sad for me because it just means he is growing up so fast. But don't worry, I'm not so sad that I change my mind about only having two. Two is it!

Since he's only 8 months old, I don't really know what Asher is teaching me. Time will tell.

Moving on...I got the pool open and ready this past week. I am finding out quickly that having a pool is work...but work that is well worth it. I know we will be enjoying it almost everyday and I will be enjoying those evening swims.

I started painting the dining room. Once done we will get a new light fixture and then I will continue on completing one room at a time; updating this and that, painting here and there.

We've meet the neighbors behind us that are our age. They are awesome people and we have already had them over for game night last friday, along with other awesome friends, and we will be getting together for bbqs and swims all summer. They have a daughter that is 5 that I know Corban will love to play with; he likes those older girls and they like bossing him around. Get use to it Son! :o

This past May 1st I celebrated 11 years here at work. I know, WOW! I was 19 1/2 when I started. Who knows, maybe I will see another 11 years!?! Some have been here for 20plus years! What can I say...it's an awesome company! It's family!

Jennifer is still at her current position. We are praying for her a new job that she has applied for. She really wants it and I want it for her. She would be awesome at it! She's the best!

Father, Thank you for my lovely wife and for my two beautiful sons. Thank you for giving to me exactly what you knew I needed. Thank you for letting them teach me things that I would have never learned. Thank you for blessing me with all 3 of them even when I feel that I don't deserve any of it.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Singing

Singing...it's something I have always done.

I cannot remember a time when I have not been involved in a choir, praise team, chorus group, etc. I even attended Jeff State Community College on a Singers Scholarship. I do not claim to be the BEST singer in the world but I can "carry a tune in a bucket" and love to harmonize in songs. I will even tell you that I know I am better at doing harmony songs than I am a soloist.

When we started attending the church we are at last October I knew it was the place for us to be. Of course, Jennifer knew it was were we were suppose to be years back but that is another story about my stubbornness. It was the place for us because number one: the True word of God is preached from the pulpit. Number two: because it has the classes Jennifer and I need, and number three: because it has what our children need.

One of the most exciting things for me though was it had a choir and praise team. My passion is singing and they had a lot to offer. I joined the choir, filled out the form of where I would like to be used(i.e. choir, praise team) and started enjoying what I know is my calling. I really feel that I was working toward joining the praise team but some changes happened.

The Minister of Music Pastor announced that he and his family was leaving. It was all on good terms and they are missed greatly. Because of them leaving, changes were made to the current music ministry.

The Lead Pastor is not in a hurry to hire another music minister. The details is too much to go into here but I and everyone else understands why and we are excited about the future and the next person that will take over, whenever that will be. In the meantime though, they have dismissed the choir and only kept the Morning Praise Team which means that I am no longer singing because I had not been put on the team yet.

So...here I sit, currently at my computer typing this, but sitting in the congregation on Sundays wishing that I were up on stage helping to lead worship. I have contacted the "fill-in pastor" that is leading worship until a replacement is found. I let him know the desires of my heart and that I am readily available when he needs another tenor/alto voice. He said thanks for letting him know. Who knows, we will see. And to let you know, the reason why the fill-in pastor can't continue on with the choir, etc is because he has other obligations on wednesday nights and sunday nights so therefore having choir practice would be rather hard to juggle.

To be honest though, my heart hurts from it all. It's only been two weeks since no choir and I already miss it terribly. It might even be the new year before they find a new music pastor.

Maybe there is something I am suppose to be learing during this time? I know we are not leaving this church. Like I have already stated, "this is where we are suppose to be." I just feel lost right now.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Follow link to my Wife's blog to see current update of Corban at 2 years!

http://jenbsnyder.blogspot.com/2011/03/two.html

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

PRAY

That's what God wants us to do...PRAY! Ephesians 6:18 tells us to Pray! In EVERYTHING! Make your requests, suplications, thankfulness, etc known to God. There is power in pray! Read this quote:

"God shapes the world by prayer. The more prayer there is in the world the better the world will be, the mightier the forces of God against evil" … (E.M. Bounds)

God is showing up in our Life Groups on Sunday mornings and showing up in our home! Prayer to God, the daily conversation you have with Him through prayer, brings you closer to Him and into the Plans that He has for you!

So...Pray! And watch God "Do His Thing!"

Moving on...We have a certain little boy who will be turning 2 this Sunday. I cannot believe he is turning 2 already. He l-o-v-e-s the Wiggles. So we will be having a Wiggles birthday party on Saturday!

Corban is turning into such a big boy. Next week I will post some pictures of the Party! I am glad the weather is going to be gorgeous so we can move the Party outside. He is getting a Bounce House as his present from us so it will be great to have that outside instead of the garage.

Until again!

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Reading a book...

...or Getting your Book read!

If the first chapter of a book has not caught captured my undivided attention then chances are I will not finish reading it. It's not to say that it's not a good book, just not the book for me.

But reading a book and "Getting your book read" are two different things. And no, I am not referring to a book that you have written. I am speaking of the daily "living out life" book. All the experiences you go through. Why you do what you do and why you act like you act.

All I can say is there are a lot of reasons (influences) that we have had in our lives that is the result of how we respond to things. But know this one thing, even if the influences came from your Parents, they are not always the right influence. That doesn't mean that your Parents didn't have your best interest at heart, they too, just didn't know better either because it was what they saw.

E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G we face in life MUST be taken before our Father in heaven. E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-G MUST be sifted and weighed. We MUST start asking, "why do I do this or that a certain way, etc? I can 100% say that if we do this we will find that some changes have to be made and who knows, some spiritial strong holds will be broken as well.

We are to become more like Christ each day! Those of us, who have been saved for many years, and are still drinking the "spirital milk" should be "eating meat!" So, get off the tit (jennifer's favorite word! :o) and start seeking hard after God. For the devil is like a roaring lion, roaming around seeking whom he may devour. Put on the armor of God face each new day ready to WIN this battle and destroy every foot-hold the devil may already have in your life and prevent him from forming any more foot-holds.

As an old song goes:

Shut the door, keep out the devil
Shut the door, keep the devil in the night
Shut the door, keep out the devil
Light a candle, everythings alright

Monday, February 7, 2011

Whirlwind

They say that when you have kids time goes by faster. Well..."THEY" are correct! I wake up on Monday morning and wonder how in the heck is it Friday afternoon already; and all this is happening before our boys are even out of diapers yet. Oh My!

Everything is as good in the hood as it can get I guess. We had a few days of sickness pass through the house but I think everyone is getting over it.

We are L-O-V-I-N-G our Church. I have to wonder to myself sometimes why I resisted this church for the past couple of years but I know we are were we are suppose to be. And to admit that I was wrong would be to admit that the Bride was right and, well, we are not going there. :o

God is showing me a lot of things and to put it mildly...My book has been read a few times. It is all for the good though. It's that whole pruning and breaking off the dead. It hurts but it is for my good!

I've started a list of things to do in our house. Little updates here and there and saving up for major ones like a new roof and new windows.

We are getting ready for Corban's 2 year birthday party. I wish you could see him! He is so darn cute and boy does he have an attitude; which he gets from his mom. I know one thing for sure, he knows what he wants and doesn't want and isn't afraid to let you know! Don't worry though, I am being the Godly Father I should be and taking out the belt and wearing that backside out, ALL in the name of Jesus of course and telling him that, "this hurts me more than it hurts you." You know, the things our parents told us as we were getting a beating. Okay, okay, he's not getting beatings...yet anyway. But he is just like me and well, enough said. Just keep Jennifer and Asher in your prayers! :)

Asher will be 5 months on the 17th. He is the total opposite of Corban and will be as tall as Jennifers Dad...aka...Coach. Asher is nothing but smiles all the time and loves to fall asleep on his daddy. Which I don't mind because that actually allows me to have some down time.

We are holding off on purchasing a new vehicle. It is just so darn hard to get another car, with a car note, when the two vehicles you have are paid for.

So, there you have it, Bombadays it in a nutshell!

Have a great evening!

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Reminded of a great song this morning...

There is NO greater place than in the presence of God!


The more I seek you
The more I find you
The more I find you
The more I love you

I want to sit at your feet
Drink from the cup in your hand
Lay back against you and breath
Feel your heart beat
This love is so deep
It's more than I can stand
I melt in your peace
It's overwhelming

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Getting mad at God

That's exactly what I did yesterday. I got mad at God! The whole time I was screaming at Him about recent events it was like I was watching myself in 3rd person and all the while not being able to stop myself.

As crazy as it is going to sound, I was upset about spending money on taking my Son to the doctor. Let me say here that I will put my children before myself and get them whatever medical help they need, even medicine for a double sinus infection.

The part I got mad over was the fact that we have spent SO MUCH money these past couple of weeks getting the cars fixed, yup, carS! All this after we moved in September, had a baby, and all the financial expenses that go along with that. So adding another $40.00 copay and prescription cost to that just put me over the edge. And we have to take Asher to the doctor tomorrow for his 4 month checkup; another $40.00 copay. I am just being real here people! It seems lately that the end of the money is getting here before the end of the month. :/

I do not put money above God, but the question I ask myself is why then did/do I react the way I do and be concerned about money, or the lack there of?

I know, even when I get mad and have to ask for forgiveness and thank God that he didn't strike me dead during my "fit throwing", that God is taking care of us. Always has and always will! But lately it just seems that enough is not enough. And yet as I type this I know that I am blessed beyond my greatest imagination.

I am not asking for sympathy from any of you. I just wanted to be real with you! Hey, I can have a bad day too.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

The "Gut" feeling

I think we can all try to ignore that "gut" feeling but I think, if you are a Christian, that "gut" feeling is the Holy Spirit telling you which direction to go and to do this or not to do that. Oh how many times I have ignored that "gut" feeling!

My post from yesterday said, "the truck has GOT to go!" The only thing is though...that truck is paid for and the transmission that was just put in it has a 90 day warrenty so if there are little quirks with it, atleast I have 90 days and if there are still problems, they will put another one in it at no cost. Of course I am hoping that NOTHING else happens to the truck.

We currently have the chance to purchase another vehicle but it will come with a car note, atleast for 3 years. I am not ready for another car note...not even for 3 years.

So today I have been driving the "chance to purchase" vehicle and the whole time, in the back of my mind, I keep hearing, "not now! Why are you really wanting this vehicle?" Of course the reason I want this vehicle is because I am tired of things happening to my current and me wondering what's going to happen next!

So, what is my decision you ask?...I will be returning the "chance to purchase" vehicle today and getting my explorer back. And though it has had its share of problems it is paid for, still running, thanks to another engine almost 4 years ago and another transmission 2 weeks ago, and it still looks nice; especially when it is all washed and detailed!

With this decision, that "gut" feeling has lifted. Yes, I would like another vehicle but not now so I am expecting the explorer to run and run forever!

Remember to listen to the gut feeling. And also remember that God gave you a brain. Yes, we are to pray about things but common sense is, well, common sense!

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

The Truck...

...has GOT to GO!!!

I had to take it to the shop again this morning. Even though it did not do for them what it did for me I can't take any more chances on it.

Lord, I pray that you bring the right vehicle for us. You know our finances and you know the future so I ask that You Will be done! In Jesus Name, Amen!

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Staying Home...

I enjoy getting a snow day, or ice day as it was yesterday. To be able to get up, on a day that you normally would be heading out the door to work, and lay around in your bed clothes all day with your hair unfixed does something good for the body.

Now, I love my two Sons but a snow day does change things when you have children; they are not as relaxing as they use to be, but still fun nonetheless! I always tease that if Jennifer would get a job that pays mega bucks I would stay home and be Mr. Mom! I am not so sure of it after yesterday. I'm not complaining, I'm just trying to give you some humor.

We might have had ice and snow outside but it looks like a tornado went through the inside of our house all thanks to a 22 month old being inside all day long! You will be proud of me though...I am slowly letting "some" of my OCD go and therefore my house still looks like a tornado went through it. (I am sure I will have to pick it up by this evening!) Hey, I said, I was letting "some" of my OCD go...not all!

I may have mentioned this already but I really feel that God is going to do some HUGE things in 2011. I feel it for our family and I sense it for others as well. One thing I know God keeps reminding me of is, "Do not worry! I am in control! Trust in Me!" Yes, He has always told us to do these things but we are stubborn humans and think for some reason that we can do a much better job than He so we try to handle it ourselves. Tisk, tisk, tisk! Shame on us...shame on Me!

So people...today is 1/11/11. Not sure if all ones means something spiritual or not but I would like to say that it is a reminder that we are only promised this day so do not worry or fret about tomorrow, for you have not been promised tomorrow! THIS is the day the Lord has made so let us REJOICE and be glad in it!

Have a blessed Tuesday Blogger World! I am back at work and ready to see what God has in store. I thank you Father for the job that you have blessed me with. I thank you that, come May 1st, I will be here 11 years! Father, I ask that you continue to bless me above and beyond anything I can think or imagine! Continue to change my heart oh God and renew a right spirit within me.

Friday, January 7, 2011

Nobody Greater

What a way to start off the morning! "Lord, I thank you that there is NOBODAY GREATER! I thank you Father for your forgiveness for the times that I thought that You and You alone were not enough in my life to be the Source of my strength; when I relied on others instead of you! Father, I thank you for the peace, the peace that surpasses all understanding. Lord continue to teach me to stand in your peace in the good times and bad times! Nobody Greater than you! I love you Lord!" Enjoy the song.

Thursday, January 6, 2011

The truth hurts...but the truth will set you free!

I came across the below info on the internet. Since I am on a "leave of absence" from Facebook I thought it to be interesting.

Seven questions:

1. Do you check your Facebook status in the morning before checking in with God?

2. Are you disappointed when people don’t respond to your posts?

3. Do you waste too much time on Facebook?

4. Do you use Facebook to avoid real life contact?

5. Do you have intimate conversations with the opposite sex under the guise of counseling?

6. Do you use Facebook to complain about life or people?

7. Are you always truthful and loving in the things you post?


To be truthful...numbers 1,3,6 really hit home with me; which only goes to show that a time away from FB is the best thing for my life right now.

Below are some scriptures that we all need to be reminded of:

Seven Scriptures to apply to our lives:

1. “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer” (Psalm 19:14).

2. “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life” (Proverbs 4:23).

3. “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (I corinthians 10:31).

4. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves (Philippians 2:3).

5. “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe” (Philippians 2:14-15).

6. “Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut” (Proverbs 10:19, NLT). “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19)

7. “Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning” (Proverbs 9:8-9).

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

You better keep running...

...until I decide to get rid of you!

On Christmas Eve around noon I got into the Explorer, 04 model, and as I was backing out of the driveway the "service engine soon" light came on and a few seconds later the "over drive off" light started flashing. Never a good sign for any light to come on.

All I kept thinking was the last time the "service engine soon" light came on my engine blew up. Actually the truck started making a loud noise and shaking and then went dead and that's when the light came on. THANKS FOR THE WARNING! That happened around Oct. 2007. We bought the Explorer used around Oct. of 06 so I was NOT happy at all that the engine blew a year later. No warning...no nothing! Well, we still owed money on it so I had to get the engine replaced; and I do not believe in being upside down on a car loan so I refused to take what little amount they wanted to offer to me as is and purchase another vehicle.

Everything had been going fine up until Christmas Eve. After those lights came on the truck started to shift rough and slip. Yup, you guessed it, the transmission.

A few days later, the inspection from the mechanic confirmed that it was the transmission and told me what the cost would be. After talking to the Bride about our options we decided that putting a used transmission in would be our best route. This time, the truck is paid for and we are enjoying NOT having a car payment and we are really NOT ready to get another car loan.

Well, the truck is finally ready to be picked up this afternoon. I know the mechanic that did the work so I know he did a great job. He said that it drove great so I am anxiously waiting to go pick it up. All I ask now is that the truck keeps running until I decide to get rid of it. I really DO NOT want anything else to go wrong with the explorer.

Through everything though I will say that I will NEVER buy another explorer. I know mechanical things can happen to any car and sometimes automakers have a bad year on certain models but enough is enough. These high dollar repairs along with the normal repairs add up.

So keep running Explorer...you 2004 explorer with a 2005 transmission and a 2006 engine. I'm starting to think about the old Jonny Cash Song, "One Piece At A Time"

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Living w/o Facebook

I decided Sunday that I would be taking a Leave of Absence from facebook for a while. The only thing that I would be doing is responding to FB messages that appear in my email or sending a FB message to someone if I do not have their email.

So far, so good! It had become very addicting and I would find myself checking on it numerous times throughout the day. Since I have a computer at my desk I would leave it minimized at the bottom of the screen and refresh the screen off and on just to see the latest who, what, when, where, how, why, etc. As if me knowing made a difference. Don't get me wrong, I like keeping up with friends but again, it had turn into an addiction.

It has been nice these past couple of days to not HAVE to know WHAT is going on. With that said, even now I want to sign-in and see what is going on and what I have missed. (addiction)

Everyone of "my friends" lives on FB will continue on whether I know about it or not. And if you haven't noticed, I have wrote on my blog 3 or 4 times thus far in the new year. Go Me! :)

Who knows how long I will be off of FB? I didn't give myself a certain time. I will return when/if I return. I guess the good thing is that each of you still get to hear from me through my Blog. It's like you are the "Chosen Ones!" :)

Have a great evening!

GREAT is Thy Faithfulness!

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.

Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Monday, January 3, 2011

Family pics

To see pics of our family please go to my Brides blog. She worked hard this weekend to post L-O-T-S of pics so go see them and enjoy! Copy the link below into your search-engine. :)

http://jenbsnyder.blogspot.com/

Sunday, January 2, 2011

2011

ALREADY! It's 2011 already! In 1998 I graduated high school. In August of 98 I moved to Birmingham. In 1999 I started Jeff State Community College. My last semester I started working at my current employment. Yup...May 1st will be 11 years that I have been there.

I never thought that 11 years later I would say that I was still at the same company. Now, you can think what you like but it is a great company and if you show up, do your job, and prove to them that you have the companies best interest in mind then you will be treated right. Of course all of us would love to be making millions but I would have to say that I make pretty good and hoping that there is always MORE money to come! ;-) We have to get paid right! 11 years later they keep paying me so they either like me or can't get rid of me, but since they keep paying me I am going to keep showing up! And you can't beat the hours...7am-3:30pm.

Moving on...Did you make any new years resolutions for 2011? I know we all have the "normal" resolutions, trust me, I could stand to loose weight, but what about deeper resolutions? Resolutions of the heart! How about a Change of Heart! Have you allowed this Sin filled World to consume you in some of its beliefs? Do you find yourself being more negative than positive? Have you found yourself agreeing to things that you know are not right but the reason why you agree is because you can't see it getting any better?

A great resolution to make is the one that is in God's word, "Create in me a clean heart of God and renew a right spirit within me." Folks, we have to WAKE-UP! The devil is prowling around like a lion seeking whom he may devour. He is looking for lukewarm Christians. The Bible says that if we are lukewarm God will spit us out of his mouth. He would rather have you cold than lukewarm because if we are a lukewarm Christian we are doing more harm than good to the kingdom of God. Lukewarm means that we are complacent. Have you become complacent?

I know the personal things that I MUST make as my resolutions for this year. If we watch the daily news and believe what it says I could go crazy in thinking that we are in for a financial destruction and pretty soon we all will be standing in a food line somewhere hoping to get a few cans of food and some bread.

Remember, "we are in the world, not of it!" "Our help comes from the Lord!" Gods word is clear, "I will never leave you nor forsake you!"

As for me and my house we will serve the Lord! I lay down the worry of this world. My God has been clear to me...I will NEVER leave you Eric nor forsake you! I will be with you ALL the days of your life. I am yours and you are mine! Do not be bothered by the things of the world or by those who hate or despise you. Remember, the world hated me first and surely if they hated me they will hate you.

This year...Be Bold, Be Strong, for the Lord thy God is with you...always and forever!

And one more thing before I go: Pray without ceasing! In everything, make your requests known to God! Allow God to answer you. It is okay to ask for prayer from other believers but I charge you to first make your request known to God. He has the BEST answer for you and his answer will not bring confusion. I dare say that when we request prayer from others regarding the issues of the heart we get more confused. Gods answer(s) will not bring confusion. Ask ANYTHING in My Name says the Lord, according to my will, and it will be done!

Happy 2011 Blogger world! I can't wait to read and hear all that God is doing in your lives this year! Take each day one at a time and cherish each moment because it is going by quickly. Pray without ceasing and in everything give praise to God! Keep your faith in God and not the cares of this world.