August 9


John 8:10-11
When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, 'Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?' She said, 'No man, Lord.' And Jesus said unto her, 'Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.'


The doctor was going to kill her. Kate had been told to lose thirty pounds over six months. For awhile she had done really well. She took off twenty in the first three months, but lately she had gained again, for a net loss of only about twelve pounds. Kate was astonished when the doctor merely encouraged her to try harder. Christ, like the doctor, offers us no condemnation. He wants us to lose weight for our own sakes, not for His. He wants to help us, not hurt us. Take comfort in the acceptance of Jesus Christ.
Today's thought: Even when I give in, I'm still a good person.

Hello everyone, I've so missed getting to read up and post with ya'all, although I have been keeping you in my prayers and wondering what little miracles God has been doing for you each day.

I want to say 'HI' to some of our newbies - JAYNE4GOD - MOM2FIVESWEETIES - TEACHER56 - TRICIA - KLYNNTX - LUFLIC. Good to have you here and hope you'll come back and share with us often.

mom2fivesweeties - give us an update from your exercise bike attack, are you alright? Glad to hear you're back on the beast, just be careful, o.k.?

wkgirl/karla - congratulations on your wonderful baby news. . . any update for us?

Speaking of babies SUE - tell us about the baby and your trip to China, hope all went well and you're busy spoiling this child (lucky you!)

EZ - thanks for sending the card to Adam. The last we've heard they've moved him, address the same and they will forward the mail. The location is undisclosed and he's not allowed to tell where he is stationed. We've had some good guesses and some are scary too, all we can do is pray that God keeps him and all our soliders safe.

SunnyD - Are you still walking? Of course, I know. How did you do for July? I ended up with only 22.8 miles but I figured it would be way-y-y down due to the heat and humidity which has been horrible this year! So far I've gotten in 8.75 miles for August, thankfully we had a little rain over the weekend which broke up most of the humidity for a few days and I've tried to log in a few more miles.

Well, gonna run and finish lunch before the boss gets back, he's not in very good humor today so I had better not be hanging around too long. I'll read more of your posts and try to get back on perhaps tomorrow. Hugs & prayers to all, sorry I had to miss some of you - hope to catch you next time - Margie

August miles walked = 8.75
Total walked since 4.4.5 = 193.45

It's Tuesday!

Hi everyone! Welcome Jane Howard! We are more fun that what we appear to be.

Hey Michele...where are you girly girl?

Wilma...can't you post a pic of your dress or a website where you got it? I'd love to see it.

Well, since I'm at work and everyone can see my screen now, I should go.

Hugs!

Just a quick check-in before I head off to a funeral....a friend of mine's dad passed away from cancer a few days ago....PRAYERS for your friend DONNA....glad to see "a little action" here for a change....well my brother is here...gotta go............Gary

Well, since it's been a while since I've really gotten to read through the posts and had some time to catch up and post back, here goes. . .

janehoward - WELCOME. Missed you on my last post - so sorry - do come back again and often!

SunnyD - Prayers for Jim's recovery, I'll bet he's so greatful to have you as a neighbor. We do miss you, come back soon, okay?

mkay - Glad to see you back also. Guess we've just all been busy or think we have nothing to share. Perhaps with vacation season almost over everyone will be around a little more??

myisha - So glad your trip went well, excepting for those last few days of not feeling well. At least the sickness didn't ruin the start of your trip - maybe just overdid it, got a little too tired? Anyway, glad you enjoyed it and then the weight loss to boot! Still waiting on those pics, bet you have some awesome photos to share. Any update of Channon? Any news when she'll be on the Today Show?

wilma - how many employees do you have at work? Seems like you're always training someone new - maybe they just need a lot of newbies to fill the position you vacated when you stepped up - right? You're vacation coming soon, YEAH, wedding and visits and so much to do, be sure and take some time for YOU also. You'll have a great time I'm sure. Prayers for your son, glad to hear he's doing some better and taking it slow, keep us updated as you can.

klynntx - Many prayers for your family dealing with Mom's daibetes (such a mean disease) and your Dad's Alzheimers (the ultimate thief!) Many changes in store as you deal with both these issues. Did you get your daughters back to school yet? What a trip, and a long one at that! I've been to Texas, once, many, many years ago, didn't like it at all but that was because of the heat & humidity. I was sick (from the heat) the whole time we were there, although still have lots of family there, all over the state.

mom2fivesweeties - Don't worry about the whining, we all need a release once in a while. As EZ said, 'things go better with whine', or as we say here at work, "would you like some cheese with your whine?" Sorry your trip to Pensacola is a no-go, are you getting to go to the Ozarks? Vacation is so nice and so necessary!

Sounds like your weather & humidity is similar as mine as I live on the Ohio River. Suppose to be at least 95 today and lots of humidity, sounds like a good day to stay inside to me! Hey, by the way, what happened with your Aldi's interivew? Did you hear anything? Have your kids started school? Ours begins next Friday, my DD is 13 and in the 8th grade, of course school is more of a social event to her at this age, can't wait to see her friends and hang-out with everyone. Thankfully she's a good student and most of her studies come pretty easily, she's also involved in the school tennis team and does dance & ballet. Oh yeah, she's cheering this year too, - sounds like it's going to be a busy year. . .

lateralus/rachel - Where Are You?????

teel - Where Are You Too? Still on holiday?

srpout - glad to see the devotions again, what wonderful words. Isn't it a comfort to know that others are going through the same situations and there is hope! Any update for us on Brennan? Re-read your struggles over the past month, - amazing what you've went through - just take it one day at a time with our Lord, that's all any of us can ask.

canadian mickey- how are things going on the job front for you and DH? Anything new on the house hunting?

Michele - Didn't know you were a Harry Potter fan! Me & DD too! I thank JK Rowling for getting my DD reading, she was never a reader before, but now, yes, we are ones standing in line at midnight when the newest book is released! Definately finish this book before you go on to the next! How was your dinner date last night? Any news to share?

EZ - of course I saved the best for last! Great news on Juan's medal, does he have any idea of a release date from service? I think Adam's is set for next March???? Not really sure, keep hearing different dates, none of which are soon enough!

Did ANGIE like the latest Potter book? We've got mixed reviews, some of it I really liked, some I really didn't, wondering where she'll take the readers in the next one? Although she does leave the door wide open as far as the direction she'll take, we'll see. . .

ANGIE - thanks for the pics, the house/park/yard/ and puppies all look great! So glad, (for the dogs) the ink stain came out! Personally, I like my hardwood floors better than the carpet, at least the dog hair, etc. isn't stuck in the carpet, even though you do have to clean it pretty much every day!

Gary, when is Angie due home? And back to school? Boy, this summer has sure flown by on us. By the way, did you see Monday nite football and my BEARS!? Yeah, they won, - now if they can just do that during regular season. . .

Well, I've put up one batch of blackberry jelly so far (6 jars), all sealed and really tasty! Have started cleaning/cooking the elderberries for jelly last night, probably 4 or 5 jars there, never had elderberry jelly (or elderberry anything for that matter) so kinda anxious to see what it's like. Lots of elderberries growing wild here so I'll be able to put up as much as I want, if this first batch turns out good.

Have still been walking with Fred somewhat. It's been awful humid here and DD is out of dance/ballet until after Labor Day, so it's been a little more difficult to get those miles in. Fred wanted to get more 'involved' in a relationship but I'm just not ready for that right now, which he's accepted and still wants to be great friends and walking buddies (he's also my berry picker). So as of now, I'm really comfortable with being good friends and having a regular walking partner, time will tell if anything further is to develop.

Congrats of all of you who have lost weight and those who continue to exercise, keep up the good work! Won't be back on before Monday as I dispatch tomorrow and Saturday.

Hugs and prayers to all - Margie

August miles walked = 8.75
Total miles walked since 4.4.5 = 193.45

Hello!

Michele...you go girl! He DOES sound nice.

I've been busier than busy today. Planning Commission Meeting today. I don't get to take a breath until after 12:00 and sometimes 1:00.

Nothin is new here in MI. The weather is great...overcast today and looks like rain. I like days like that once in awhile.

Well everyone...later!

Hello Everyone!! Sorry it has been so long since I posted. It has been quite busy trying to catch up with work and keep up with the kids summer activities. I had no time to post at work and then my niece crashed my computer while I was in Africa! I was not very pleased. I spend 2 1/2 hours deleting my Windows program and then reinstalling my DSL and all of my other programs. I went to bed at 1:00am this morning. Then I got back up to go walking this morning at 6:30am. It turned out to be really nice. I decided to start walking 30 mins every morning to start getting some exercise in so I can continue with my weight loss. I am feeling really good right now!!

Michelle - Channon is doing wonderful!! She was in Ohio when I got back. Then they came back home on Tuesday. I went to see her last night and she looks great!! She got a little more meat on her now and her hair is growing back! She is sitting up by herself and cooing quite alot. Sounds like you had a really nice dinner last night. He sounds like a really nice guy. You deserve a good guy!

Margie - I cant believe it!! When I went to see Channon last night my SIL said the Today Show aired while I was in Africa!!! But she has the link at the bottom of Channon website. www.thestatus.com login:Hopson password:Liquid-Delta. Go in and check it out. I watched it last night and the entire story was a so emotional. They didnt interview my family they just showed their picture and them in the hospital. But the families that they interviewed had very heartfelt stories.

Thank all of you so much for your concern and prayers for Channon and my family. They are working!! They are on their right now to CA!! That little baby is having a wonderful vacation. Please continue to keep them in your prayers and also lift up my SIL she is really starting to get worn out physically and emotionally.


Donna - I will keep your friend lifted up in my prayers. He is so blessed to have a friend like you!! We all are!!

EZ - Prayer for your friend and their family for their loss.

Well, I still havent gotten the pictures all sorted and dowloaded. Hopefully I can spend some time doing it this weekend now that my computer is working again! I promise to get the posted soon!!

Gotta get back to work!! Will post again soon!

HI GALS

Just a few minutes to check in before I head to work. I will try to catch up later this afternoon if I get off early~~~if I have time before I go give blood with my daughter.

Well~~ ANGIE just called me from the driveway in Washington~~~she is on her way home! She is going to try to make it half way today...about 630 miles, then go another 400 or so tomorrow, stop and visit with her sister and mom until monday morning...then be home monday afternoon. Prayers for her travels.....she has Lara, Reba and Rylee with her for company.

Well heading off to work...........

I am officially on holidays!!! I have 2 weeks off work and I am going to enjoy it. This next week I'll be busy getting things ready for the wedding. The following week I'll be relaxing and enjoying my family.

Work went well surprisingly. I left feeling like I had finished everything I needed to get done. We'll see how things went when I get back!!

Gary: It'll be so nice for you to have your family together again. My DH has been gone all week and I finally get to see him tomorrow AND spend 2 whole weeks with him. Of course, he'll be just as busy as I will be but we'll be able to spend some time together.

mnewton: Glad to hear from you and that you're okay. I'm also thrilled to hear that little Channon is doing so well. Praise God!!

Michele: Your date sounded wonderful! What a gentleman. It's so nice to hear that there are still some of those out there.

Margie: I work in a credit union and am supervisor with 9 staff to look after. There has been a large turnover of staff because of promotions, etc. with a new branch opening. One girl just quit on her own so I have been doing a lot of training. I am starting to enjoy it more and am starting to feel like a supervisor. It's been hard not being one of the girls but morale is starting to improve.

Your jams and jellies sound so delicious. I used to do so much of that too but now the time just isn't there to do it.

I'm glad to hear that you're still out there walking and with Fred too. I think you're smart to take the relationship slowly and work on the friendship first. Who knows what will happen!!

Sunny: Your story about Jim is so sad. He is so lucky to have you for a friend. It's amazing how many people out there don't have family that care about them. God will bless you for your kindness to him.

mkay: I don't have a pic of my dress but I will post wedding pics as soon as I get some!

Well, Im falling asleep here so I should get to bed.

Good night!

HI GALS

Sitting here drinking my second 20 oz. ~~PLENTY more where that came from. ANGIE just called and is heading out from the hotel~~she did make it half way like she had planned~~630 miles in 11 hours~~she was wore out! She thinks I am nuts to go 850 miles in 13 hours on the first day when I drive it. Easier for me~~no dogs~~and more comfortable vehicle~~big comfy F150 vs. little low end Honda Civic.

Well our local Little League team made it to the West Finals~~ they play tomorrow (Sunday) at 8 PST on ESPN2, I believe~~ they are the RBV~Ranch Buena Vista team from Vista, Ca....it is the city next to us...actually city limits 1 mile from my house~~we live in Oceanside, but kids go to school in Vista~~play sports in Vista/Oceanside/Carlsbad...depending on the boundry lines...we are a tri-city area. So if you have any little leaguers hanging around the house and they are watching tell them to pull for us ~~I know the game is too late in most of your areas, but if they win, they will go to Williamsport Pa. next week for the World Series...there will be a ton of games on between ESPN and ESPN2 and other channels. FYI

Amanda and I went to give blood yesterday...she couldn't again because her iron count was too low! Poor kid she has gone with me 3 of the last 4 times I have (in fact she is usually the one that makes the appt. and then ask me if I can go with her)...she ate everything she was told to so her count would be up~~just a little low~~she didn't want to take supplements w/o talking to our doctor~~she has heard mixed reviews on that. Maybe next time.

My daughter's friend from college left yesterday, but Ron came home from his visit with his mom so we didn't miss a "mouth to feed"! Actually had an extra since daughter's "BOYFRIEND" came by for dinner AGAIN! I guess he thought I was serious when he called looking for her and I told him she was at RUBIOS FISH TACOS getting us all dinner~~ I told him to call her cell with his order~~I was only kidding~~

WILMA Enjoy your time off work! I hope the weather holds out for you. Is your DH off too or just working closer? I always like it when Angie is off, even when I am working, it's just easier on me because I USUALLY DO ALL THE WORK AROUND THE HOUSE WHEN SHE TEACHES, SINCE I WORK LESS HOURS A DAY THAN HER! i do help out though! Now that we have been apart for 3 weeks I know she will tell me how much help I am, when she comes home on Monday~ Glad work is going well for you~~ "You've come a long way baby!"~~in the last couple of years! Have a great vacation!

MYISHA great to see Channon's progress! Sorry about the computer problem...I hope you weren't too hard on her...boy! can I be brutal on my nephew Ron...although sometimes he DOES deserve it!

MICHELE Sounds like a wonderful date~ I hope the two of you have a great wee-end planned! I love creme brulee although I have only had it once~~ we did a bunch of remodel work on a very famous hotel in La Jolla Ca. a few years back, each week the developer would treat the workers to lunch on Fridays, well usually it was BBQ stuff or sandwiches, very good, but on the last Friday they served us what they serve their guests (movie stars and rich and famous)..WOW! they just kept bringing out already made plates with food and laying them out as guys would go down the serving line~~ I have never seen so much food~~we were all STUFFED THEN they brought out the desserts! OH MY GOODNESS! most of us had never seen desserts like that! I will never forget the creme brulee~it was going so fast~ guys were just going over it~~your truly included My ex just got back from her family reunion in Vesta (?) Minn. Enjoy your new guy

MARYK Sounds like you are busy at work. How are things with DH?

MARGIE OH MY! Your poor BEARS~~ What a tough (ankle) break for Rex Grossman~~he has had a tough couple of years to say the least! Your back up QB Chad Hutchinson is from high school in our county...he is a great athlete...tried baseball first. Good luck on the season, I know my Bear fan buddy at church will have something to say to me on Sunday~~Probably will want to get out of our standing Raiders vs. Bears total season wins bet! we have bet for close to 15 years but I think we have each paid up on our 6 pack bet only once

Juan has never mentioned when he gets out or will leave Iraq to me (that I remember anyway)...we did e-mail each other a few days ago and he is doing well, although he division took a bunch of hits last week. Another friend of my son's (and mine) called me/him on thursday from his Navy carrier the Nimitz ...they are on the coast over there...he will be home in 3 months...I worry about him, but I think he is safer than the boys on the ground...just want it to be over NOW!! I believe in the cause...it just keeps getting tougher every day....I keep seeing the losses go up, I just can't even comprehend the losses in Viet Nam let alone World War II

Things will work out with Fred one way or the other My grandma has had the nicest gentleman friend for over 50 years! He worked with her for years, they were neighbors, my grandpa passed away 40 years ago~ his wife a few years later~ they dated on a friendship basis for company~ she moved out to Ca. to live with us for about 5 years~~ kept in touch with him~~ then she move "back home"~~ for the last 35 years they do things together (although in their late 80's not much anymore but TV)~~he would come over for dinner every night at the same time and leave at the same time~~twice a week they would go out to dinner~~he has been a great comfort to her for many years.

Sounds like your DD is going to be very busy....I know that feeling with my kids...always on the go...keeps us young...and wore out

Angie did like the Harry Potter book...didn't say much to me about it though...she read it in a couple of days.

School starts here: Ryan starts teaching US History and Government/Economics to juniors and seniors on Monday~~ Ron starts 10th grade on the 22nd~~ Lara starts her senior year on the 22nd~~and Angie starts back teaching 6th grade on the 25th, I think. Amanda continues her research anaylst job with that co. working with the Navy and SEARCHING for the right grad. school~~ she has made a bunch of contacts so far~~just waiting for the right fit for all concerns.

GRAPHICGODDESS Hope things are OK! As far as your neighbor goes...remember my neighbor Joe? If you re-call, when he was younger he treated his daughter very bad~~much like the dad of my buddy that just passed~~as time went on he became weaker/humble~~the years had passed~~closeness was gone. My buddy had the opportunity of hearing his dad ask for forgiveness and apologize...also hearing it from the neighbors of his dad~~not sure if that is the case here of course...sometimes the kids are just "mean"! Hope to hear from you soon! MISS YOU!

Well~~Off to do some chores with the kids before Angie comes home! Actually we didn't do BAD! House is pretty clean!!

Later, Gary