Facing a New Year!!

Well, 2007 is almost over! Just a few more hours left (which I may spend sleeping, since I have to go to work in the morning). What a year!!! When I look over the past year, and all that has taken place in our lives here in the Arnold home, I am amazed at how God has blessed and helped. The beginning of 2007 found us faced with the knowledge that my mother's days were numbered. She was diagnosed with cancer. What an emotionally roller coaster ride her illness was. Thank the Lord for Hospice. They were a great blessing during this time. Becky was in her senior year of high school. There was a gratuation open house to plan. A school trip to Arizona. Then, in June, a wedding!!! Our second of three sons found his "true love", Ruth Anne, and they had a beautiful wedding. Before we could blink, it seemed, summer was here. We did have a nice summer, although a lot of it was spent preparing to send our "baby girl" off to college. God has truly blessed her and continues to supply every need!!! God has blessed me with a job, that also allows me some days off. Of course I try to spend those days off with our beautiful little grand daugher, Emma. Phil is still working at the dealership and we are just trusting God to let him know if and when it is time to move on. As the holidays were approaching, I found myself almost "afraid" might I say, to face these times. I have never had a Christmas without my mother. How would I make it through? But I must say that our Christmas was wonderful!! I am sooo thankful for my husband, my children, my grandchild, my father (and his new lady friend), our "old" friends, our "new" friends, but most of all,Iam thankful for my Heavenly Father. Jesus Christ. I Love Him!! And I amazed at the many ways that He has chosen to show His love for me this past year. I Serve a Living Savior!! I am thankful for the challanges that I faced in the year 2007 and I am looking forward, with anticipation, to what God has in store for us in 2008. Isn't serving God exciting!!! Happy New Year!!!

Wonderful Week-End!!

I know that it has been quite awhile since we have posted anything on our blog. Maybe that's not so very important to some, but there HAS to be SOMEONE out there who is interested!! I seem to have been living at Hobby Lobby lately. They have been working me many hours, for which I am grateful (most of the time). It IS helping out with finances at this time of year. Thank the Lord for a job that I enjoy (most of the time). I really do love interacting with all the customers. Maybe that's because I love people, or maybe I like to talk. You figure that one out.
Anyway, I requested last week-end off, and my boss graciously abliged. Friday (Dec. 7) was Becky's 18th birthday, so on Saturday Phil and I (along with my father, Cheryl Watters, Amber Plemmons and Ashley Frye) made our way to the Big City. We managed to fit a lot in. We went out to eat before and after the school's big pageant. We do like to eat!!! We met some new friends, and met up with some we already knew. What a wonderful time we had!!! We celebrated Becky's birthday and her friend, Sam's as well. We thouroughly enjoyed the pageant. It was a time of, not only reflection on the Birth of Christ, but of basking in the Holy Spirit's presence while enjoying the talents represented that night! How thankful we are that He came as a Babe in a Manger, died on the Cross, rose again, ascended into Heaven where he is preparing a Place for us. For He WILL come again to receive us unto Himself. During this very busy time of year, among all the hustle and bustle of shopping, wrapping presents, the programs , and let's not forget the FOOD, let's remember why Jesus Came in a Manger. Merry Christmas to all!!!

Our little "Tree Hugger"

Fall is one of my favorite seasons (until the next season comes along of course). Maybe that's because God created all these, and whatever He puts His hand to is always a beautiful work of art. Now, Phil takes a look at all these leaves in our yard and sees "work". Our entire yard looks like this, and the huge trees in the yard still have some leaves on them. I think Phil is going to "start" on this project tonight. Yesterday, we were outside saying good-bye to our son, Seth and his wife and child (who happens to be our delight). Emma decided that it was time to have fun in the leaves. We managed to get a few good pictures of her tossing the leaves in the air, as she was running everywhere. It was great fun. Then, all of a sudden, she just went up to a tree and gave it a hug and a kiss. I did capture this (surprise, surprise). Needless to say, the politically involved family that we are, got a big kick out of this, followed by a huge political discussion. Obviously, we have some training to do here. Maybe it's time to start explaining some things to Emma?! But, of course, she isn't of voting age yet, so we have time. I hope you enjoy the pictures. Happy Fall!!! Most of all, Happy Thanksgiving!! There truly is much to be thankful for!!!

Our Pastor

The month of October was designated as "Pastor Appreciation Month". Just let me tell you about MY Pastor. He just happens to be my middle son, Michael. If I would tell him the following things in person, he would say, "Oh, Mom. Stop it!". So, here goes. MY Pastor is the best in the world. Surprised?? I know this because, I know him. When Michael takes on any responsibililty, he dives in head first. He takes his responsibilities seriously, and He believes that when God commanded us to "go into all the world", it's simple, we must. He takes his role as "Pastor" very seriously. I know that when he delivers a sermon he has spent many hours in prayer and preparation, and then he delivers what God has put on his heart with Love and Compassion. The congregation of our church tried to shower Michael and Ruth Anne with love for the ENTIRE month. I think we may have "smothered" them a little bit, though. They didn't get many "free" evenings. They were invited out many times, sometimes to a fancy restaurant, sometimes to a home and sometimes just for ice cream. They, also received some gift cards, but, most of all, I hope they felt our love and appreciation.

Yesturday morning we decided to embarass them (just kidding) by having them sit right up front where everyone could stare at them. The children had made cards for Michael and Ruth Anne, telling them how much they love them. They told them how smart and pretty they were too (I think they meant Ruth Anne was pretty). Cheryl Watters had some poems that she read and some people stood to tell of their appreciation. Then, as our Pastor and his wonderful wife stood at the front, we all filed by to shake their hands and give many hugs.

We love you Michael and Ruth Anne and we are glad to have your leadership.

Best Friends Evening Out

Friday evening was a rare and wonderful one indeed!! It's the first Friday that I have had off of work in forever. I had missed my best friend's birthday, because I was working, so we (Cheryl Watters and I) decided to celebrate Friday. The beautiful town of Tecumseh (where I live) was having it's official "Turning on of the Lights". They make a great big "event" of it. The shops are open late, you can go from shop to shop collecting recipes (By the way Cheryl, I left mine in your car). and listen to Carolers singing Christmas songs. Just in case you would get cold, which we did, they had barrels on the main four corners with nice warm fires in them. We stood around them and drank our coffee. Well, Cherly didn't, she doesn't drink coffee. She doesn't know what she is missing!! While we were there, we happened to run into her son, Jason and his wife and daughter, Katie. They walked around with us, which was nice, then Jason was my drinking buddy. (You know what I mean. Coffee-drinking buddy!!!) We had a wonderful time. I think our favorite store was the store upstairs, above the Daily Grind. It was beautifully decorated with all Christmas!!!! The Holiday Season is such a fun, wonderful time of the year, isn't it? We can get so busy with the hustle and bustle of it all that we could easily forget the important things in life, such as wonderful friends and family. Thanks, Cheryl, for being my "Bestest Friend" in all the world for the past 20 yrs. or so. Happy Belated Birthday!! You're the greatest!!

Recovering!!!

We do seem to be in the recovery process!!! I didn't think I would ever be able to say it, but it's true. The last time I posted pictures of our house, it was in shambles. If you remember, it was when Becky was packing to go off and leave us. She was on her way to God's Bible School. I thought it was time to let you know that it didn't stay that way. Of course, I don't want you to think that it has taken me this long to clean up the mess, but it has taken this long, it seems, for Phil and me to see any signs at all of recovery. We are experiencing "empty nest syndrome". Don't laugh, it's real!!! Many hours on the phone with our daughter, and many hours on our knees---that's the cure (well, the beginning of the cure, at least). Becky is doing great at school. Do you know how I can tell? Sometimes she really doesn't have much time to talk. Busy, ya know. Thanks for all the prayer and support for our family. We serve a "Great Big Wonderful God"!!!

Happy Birthday Daughter-in-law

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday Dear Ruth Anne Arnold, Happy Birthday to you! (In case you couldn't tell, I was singing) Today is the newest member of our family's Birthday. We (The Arnold Clan) are proud to count her as one of us and would like to wish her a wonderful day. Happy, Happy Birthday. We love you.

We're still here!!

We're still here!! It sure has been a busy few months. Just to let you know, Becky is doing fine at college. We went down there a few weeks ago to see her. She has had a little trouble with "home-sickness", but I think she may be through the worst part of it. With Becky, as long as she is staying busy (very busy) she seems to be fine. I think Phil and I are doing alright, too. I know that I had left all of you thinking that I was going to have a major break or something. That's just how dramatic I can get!! We're are actually adjusting to the peace and quiet. Yes, there is some of that in the "Arnold Household". I do my best to dispell of that "quietness" whenever possible. We look forward to Sunday afternoons, when we usually have some, if not, all of of our children and their spouses to dinner. Oh, I can't forget, our grand-daughter, too. She's only one little tiny girl, but we all know she's here. She is a joy to have around. Emma has succeeded in successfully wrapping Phil around her teeny, tiny finger. She is saying many words, and seems to be doing or saying something "new" every time we see her.
It does seem as though the "enemy of our soul" has been disturbing "us and our's" with some oppression as of late, but I am thankful that our God is Good. He fills us with His peace, contentment and the wonderful "Joy" that we can have in serving Him. Once, again, "The Devil is Defeated Again". Praise His Wonderful Name!!!!!
We have, finally, found a cord that will enable us to post some more pictures. So, be patient, pictures will be arriving soon!!!

Panic Attack!!! Hyperventalation!!! Tomorrow is the day!! We will get in the van (which is loaded to the hilt) to take my "Baby" to college. I thought that I was ready for this, but obviously I'm not. I can't even sleep very well. Is this normal? As you can see in the picture (sorry, it is a little dark) our house was a mess trying to get this little girl ready to go. Why must girls take sooooo much stuff? I hope that her room-mate has enough room for her stuff. Becky did talk to the young girl who is to be her room-mate the other day. They seemed to hit it off. They were talking as if they had known each other forever. That is a good thing (I think). Well, I just thought that I would update, and show you the chaos that our household has been in for a few days. Pray for us as we travel tomorrow. Thanks.

Well, once again--A day late. I'm just learning how to do this stuff. I was trying to put a picture of that handsome son of mine on here for everyone see, but, of course I didn't succeed. That's how dependant I am on Becky and Phil. They have to show me how to do everything. Enough complaining. The following message is what I wanted to post.

My Dearest Michael. My middle son. My Friend. My Pastor. Your Birthday was yesturday!!!Happy Birthday to you!!! (I'm singing, but I know you can't tell that unless I inform you of the fact.) I hope that your birthday was a good one. I thought of you all day, and thanked the Lord several times for the priviledge of being your mom. I love you very much. Thanks for being a son that any mother could be proud of. I'm sure your dad is proud of you too, but I happen to be the one writing this. Love, Mom XOXOXOXOXO

Friends!!! Aren't we blessed? Monday evening we had a visit from some "new" friends that God has blessed our life with. The Coxon Family came over, we had pizza, bread sticks (you know, all that junk that's not good for you), but, most of all, lot's of laughs. Becky, Allysa and Aaron went to play putt-putt golf. I'm sure they did much playing "golf". I heard stories of how the ball had to be retrieved from the pond etc. and also noticed that Allysa had a new hair-do in every picture that was taken (I don't know, I asked, and still don't understand--girls!!!). Late that night, after our company had left, we thanked God for all the people who have been brought into our lives (not only the "new" friends, but also the "old"). Isn't life fun!? Especially when you are serving the "Best Friend" a person could ever have. What a Friend we have in Jesus. Oh, by the way, that happens to be my favorite song. Ok. Now I'm rambling. Time to go. Have a blessed day.

Today was a pretty exciting day around the Arnold house (when isn't it?). About once or twice a week I get the priviledge of watching my grand-daughter, Emma. Well, today I (well, Becky is here too, that helps) also had a visit from some cute little boys. Some of you, I'm sure, recognize them. These handsome dudes are "The Mayle Clan". They are: Zachary, Dakota, Justice and Tyler. As you can see, Emma was thouroughly enjoying there company. As always when you have a "bunch of boys" around; eating is a must. I am having a good day. Is it because having all these children around remind me of the days when there were several little ones of my own running around? Probably. Well, I just thought you might enjoy these photos. Hope you did.

This is us!

This is us! Grandpa and Grandma Arnold, thanks to Miss Kadence Emma Arnold.

After raising three boys and a daughter, (who is still a piece of work in process), I never expected that parenting could be so "grand".

That little granddaughter brings a twinkle in my eye and I can't help but chuckle just thinking about her. Of Course Grandma Arnold has a lot of love to give her too.

Yes of course we are proud of all our children and children in laws, not just our little Emma.

Okay, I admit it. It really is all about her.

Emma's 1st Birthday

July 29, 2007, our first grand-daughter's 1st birthday. What a fun day! We gathered at Jordana's parent's house to celebrate. Someone must have told Emma that that day was "all about her", because she seemed to know that all eyes were watching her every move. Our little social butterfly certainly enjoyed every minute of that day, from the food (fried fish, tater tots, cole slaw, pasta salad and "dirt". Of course I mean that wonderful dessert made from chocolate pudding and as you're eating, you run across gummi worms. If you're name is Seth Arnold you complain loudly everytime you find one. Anyway, back to little Miss Emma. She wasn't too impressed with the birthday cake (which was a cute little fish). Maybe it was because she was expected to "dig" in with both hands. Isn't that what all one-year-olds do on their 1st birthday?

Well, not our Emma. She wanted a fork. Not to feed herself, but to feed her daddy. We got a big laugh out of that. Her mother had taken her clothes off in anticipation of a layer of cake on Emma, but that didn't happen. What a unique, wonderful creation. We love her, in case you haven't figured that out. We have added a few more pictures that were taken on that day. I hope you all enjoy them as much as we have.

Emma's dedication ceremony

Emma was dedicated to the Lord at the Adrian Lower Light Church, by her pastor (who just happens to be her Uncle Mike). She slept through the whole thing. This is probably a good thing. She happens to be a pretty busy little girl (she is Seth's daughter you know!).

Becky's Graduation Day

Here is a picture of me and my daughter taken on her graduation day. Becky graduated valedictorian of her class. Quite an accomplishment in view of the difficult year that we expericenced. Now she'll be off to college to fulfull the calling that God has placed on her heart. Pray for her, as the field she is entering is not an easy one for Christians these days. In case you're wondering, she is entering the field of politics. She isn't sure just where that is going to take her, but she is adament about it. In light of the difficulties that she could encounter, she is first going to Bible College. In so doing, trying to build a firm Biblical and Spiritual foundation.