Kindred Spirits

STANDING FIRM

2010-05-29T05:02:00.000-07:00

A good lesson today in I Samuel 12..."do not turn aside from following the Lord but serve the Lord with all your heart. And you must not turn aside , for then YOU WOULD GO after futile things which cannot profit or deliver because they are futile."

And yesterday in Galatians 5 another challenge to stand firm, follow Jesus, "it was for freedom that Christ set us free therefore KEEP STANDING FIRM and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery!"

I love the constant reminder from both the old and new testaments that sticking close to my savior is what I need to focus on and as Keith Green's song says: He'll Take Care of the Rest.

Maxine

PRAYER

2010-05-26T05:29:00.000-07:00

AND AT THIS TIME, that He went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer to God. (Luke 6:12) and the next day he chose his 12 disciples.

At a College Retreat where Gene and I were sponsors I asked, our speaker, a dear godly man who was a Prof at Multonmah College what was one of the most important aspects of his preparation. His answer "every day the week before this conference I read and prayed on my knees through the Scripture I'm preaching on this week."

In a conversation with Peter Jesus tells him "Peter, Peter, satan has desired to sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you.."

How important is prayer in my life. Do I pray or do I consult my "to do list" before I start my day, when know someone is struggling do I pray before I speak to them.

And best of all, from Psalm 5:3 "In the morning, O Lord, Thou wilt hear my voice, In the morning I will order my prayer to Thee AND EAGERLY WATCH.

Wouldn't it be great to go through the day eagerly watching for God's hand in my life instead of wondering/worrying about it!

Blessings, Maxine

2010-05-24T06:12:00.000-07:00

THE GREAT CARE OF YOUR LIFE...A real blessing from Oswald Chambers this morning as he reminded me from Matthew 6:33 that I need to be sure I make my relationship to God the dominating factor of my life and to be Carefully careless about everything else In Comparison to that.

He adds, Jesus is not saying that the man who takes thought for nothing is blessed--that man is a fool...but don't make the ruling factor of your life what you will eat or drink, or anxiousness over your means of living..or your To Do List (that would be me)...but put your relationship to God first and everything else second.

I want that to be true of my life today, and it is a day at a times (sometimes an hour by hour choice.) But it is possible because He never commands what He won't provide if we're willing.

It's good to be back in Wake Forest; the rain has come and the weeds are waiting but so are the flowers. God Bless Your Day.

Maxine

2009-07-02T05:54:00.000-07:00

BUT GOD...Ephesians 2:4 begins and today my thoughts are on Sue and in spite of wishing things were different in our dear CA Ostby family and often wondering how they continue on as well as they do with the challenges each of the 5 face daily, I come back to those beginning two words..But God: Who keeps them, sustains them, upholds them, sends them prayer support, surrounds them with physical friends and bands of angels and therefore they can continue on.

Sue's physical health is still on a slow decline; yet spiritually she uplifts everyone in her presence so greatly evident is her love for and trust in Jesus.

My last trip out was to see Karis graduate from AGHS and it brought such joy to the whole family, Sue especially as she saw the fruit of her labors as a home schooler reflected that evening.

Now I leave soon to spend a month with Sue as Dana and the kids head for Indonesia first, for a close friend's wedding then for ministry with some others of their church and teams from the CA Central Coast.

It will be a stretch for Sue with them gone so long; a dear friend of ours here who loves Sue greatly is taking a week from her family to spend there with us, and my honey, too will come for a week.

Please pray that I, along with others who love Sue, will make this month fly by for her with interesting, creative, joyful activity.

I saw this poem the other day and in it I sense God and Sue.

Your Cross

The everlasting God has in His wisdom

foreseen from eternity the cross

that He now presents to you

as a gift from His inmost heart

This cross He now sends you

He has considered with His all-knowing eyes,

understood with His divine mind,

tested with His wise justice,

warmed with His loving arms

and weighed with His own hands

to see that it be not one inch too large

and not one ounce too heavy for you

He has blessed it with His holy name,

anointed it with His consolation,

taken one last glance at you

and your courage, and then sent it

to you from heaven,

a special greeting from God to you,

in alms of the all-merciful love of God.

St. Francis de Sales

Thanks for listening,

Maxine

2009-06-03T03:15:00.000-07:00

A Dear Pastor Friend once said in a sermon, "keep doing the things that have helped you grow spiritually in the past" but sometimes I want to do something new...something different to grow me up more in the Lord. This morning I really heard Phil's voice again as I looked through an old journal and read:

"Good Morning Lord,
Thank you for a quiet time of thinking about the Womens' Retreat and something Pat Palau said: 'I think one thing Jesus will say to us when we get to heaven is 'why didn't you ask me for more...there was so much I wanted to give you'.

Spiritual blessings I would add and Lord, even though there is probably more of my life behind me than in front of me I still want to begin even now to seek more of those spiritual blessings (II Peter 1:3 His divine power has granted us everything pertaining to life and godliness.)

One that comes to mind is a Passion for Christ as in the Quiet Time Booklet. Another comes to me as I sing through the 2nd verse of Sweet Hour of Prayer.

Sweet Hour of Prayer, Sweet Hour of Prayer, the joys I feel the bliss I share, of those whose anxious spirits burn with strong desires for Thy return. With such I hasten to the place where God my Saviour shows His face and gladly take my station there and wait for Thee Sweet Hour of Prayer.

Nothing new needed, just a walk across the room to my prayer closet.

Have a blessed day in Jesus,

Maxine

2009-05-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO YOU MOMS WHO ARE READING THIS and my special wish for you is from Proverbs 31:25b "she smiles at the future."

That's unconditional: whatever our days bring or don't bring, whoever He does or doesn't bring across our path to share His love with, whether or not I think I can finish that huge 'to do list' (ooh, that's one of my tougher ones), and most importantly replacing trust with anxiety and forgetting all the "what-ifs" that can cloud our thoughts.

Our best shot at being able to smile at our tomorrows is being sure we've invested some time with Him today. In fact, a great goal would be that because of how we face our tomorrows, at least some would say of us "I CAN SEE THAT YOU LOVE JESUS FIRST, IT'S PLAIN TO SEE" .

Maxine

2009-04-29T06:13:00.000-07:00

DADDY, I NEED HELP were the words that came from Alisha...not exactly anguished but definitely very needy. She had just discovered a forgotten homework assignment, and even more, it was the type of assignment she had never done before. Well, Dana was there and gladly walked her through the process of what was needed so she could begin.

As I watched and listened I realized this is exactly what we need to do not only in our times of extreme need, but on a daily basis. We need to cry out to God "Daddy, Abba Father, I need help. Guide me today in the way that I should go, in the decisions I make." We're promised He will in Psalm 32:8 "Iwill instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you."

Other highlights from CA...we ran the gamut of weather from 38deg the first night I was there (unusual) to 105 degrees at Pismo Beach 2 days later (also unusual).

Sue's health has not improved; there is some new treatment being considered. That is hard to see yet it is always a joy to be with them. Changes coming up for them as Karis graduates from high school and Alisha enters public school for the first time.

Coming home was an experience (don't 'hitchhike' on Mondays when the business travelers are on full steam), yet even with a few struggles and not so ideal conditions I'm reminded how good my life is and how spoiled I can become if I'm not careful.

Blessings to you all.

Maxine

2009-04-08T13:01:00.000-07:00

DO YOU REMEMBER, IF YOU REMEMBER, WELL DEARIE YOU'RE MUCH OLDER THAN I...(actually, I'm sure I'm at least older, if not much older than those who will read this)...and so you probably don't recognize the words to this 'oldie' but it came to mind the other day as a friend and I were reminiscing over some funny shared experiences which then moved on to some memories of our moms (now both deceased) some of which were very tender and some, hysterically funny.

Flying home later in the week with lots of time on my hands I thought about that conversation and was impressed by the thoughts the word REMEMBER brought. In my head I could say:

to my sweetie and my kids, remember in CA when after church, Sunday lunch was automatically hot dogs, and because I kept dishes to a minimum on that day, we ate them off waxed paper 'plates' and that once lunch was over we'd each roll up our piece of waxed paper and lob it across the kitchen to land in the sink yelling 'my dishes are done'
to my friend, Donalyn in CA, remember when I knew that we'd been to the same movie on the same night even though we hadn't seen each other because your laugh was so recognizable
to our flock ladies, remember how hard we laughed when we went to DC, sharing 'girl talk' as we walked, day and night it seemed, drawing in as much as we could in 3 short days.
to my nieces remember, that wild ride from the Budapest airport to our hotel when we were not completely sure of our final destination?
to our dear friends. the Palmers, Moores and Comers in Portland remember how God used our combined ministries in a CA church and tied us together in bonds of love that lasted from 15 years ago to last August when we met for lunch, and will continue on.

Of course I could go on and on, but how about you. Do you reminisce sometimes...don't go there to live, but just to hang out a while..and remember how your life has been enriched and by who. It's a worthwhile trip.

Blessings to you all

Maxine

2008-12-24T06:02:00.000-08:00

GOD REST YE MERRY GENTLEMEN LET NOTHING YOU DISMAY, REMEMBER CHRIST OUR SAVIOR WAS BORN ON CHRISTMAS DAY; TO SAVE US ALL FROM SATAN'S POWER WHEN WE HAD GONE ASTRAY, OH TIDINGS OF COMFORT AND JOY.

As I meditated on this wonderful Christmas Hymn written in England in the 1800's I was so encouraged. Yes, it is tempting to be dismayed over circumstances whether it's what we, our kids, our friends our wonderful USA is experiencing, if that is our focus. Yet if we 'fix our eyes on Jesus' we'll know, as the song reminds us we are saved from satan's power (his temptations and his interference in our lives are a reality BUT we are saved from his power) and that brings me great comfort and joy. Sometimes I easily grasp the comfort knowing God is always in control but I forget the joy. And His Word tells us He has come that we might have joy, and have it abundantly.

And now a note from CA...the December trip was very encouraging. While Sue's overall condition has not improved, Sue, Dana and I met with an excellent Physical Therapist who did a 2 hr assessment of Sue and feels therapy can have an impact on her quality of life to a great degree. So that will start in the New Year. We see the Lyme Specialist as well as the Parkinsons docs in January.

Dana is recovering from shoulder surgery which is helping improve his quality of life and the kids are as wonderful as ever. I'm so blessed with building friendships with these 3 fun kids. One day I was driving Alisha to her Spanish Class and as we passed some trees beautiful in their oranges and golds she said "look at those trees, Grandma. They're get prettier each day, that's like Mommie, she gets prettier inside and out all the time."

And finally, God was 'so there' for me all the time. Since American no longer flies into San Luis Obispo I now depend on United. This time they could only get meto Santa Maria, south of SLO, but a car was waiting for me at the SLO airport (thanks to wonderful friends there). As I was trying to decide the best way to overcome this obstacle a lady walked up to me saying she'd overheard my conversation with the United agent and though she couldn't take me to SLO, she could take me as far as Arroyo Grande (where the kids live)! Turned out she lived 3 blocks from them and delivered me to their door.....so what are the odds of meeting someone in Los Angeles International Airport who lives 3 blocks from you and can meet your specific needs?

Confirms the earlier thoughts....about comfort and joy when we know that, in spite of the circumstances, God IS in control.

Merry Christmas,

Maxine

2008-09-11T04:41:00.000-07:00

Vacation Time has come and gone for Gene and I and what a week we had in the Pacific Northwest. First stop was Portland for a family wedding held in a beautiful oudoor garden with 'live' music, beautifully catered dinner and enjoying family we rarely see.

While in Portland we also had some sweet fellowship with friends we've had much history with when we lived in the CA Bay Area. One, a pastor I worked with for many years, one, a worship pastor who all 3 of our kids and I had as a choir director and the third, a pastor who was both Dana's Jr. High Youth Pastor and later the Missions Pastor with Dana as one of the first candidates in his outstanding Missions Candidate Program.

At the last minute Dana and Sue decided to join us for the Portland portion and were so blessed by connecting too with these dear friends. That, alone was worth the whole trip. As a dear missionary friend from the past often said: 'God's two greatest gifts this side of heaven are our friends and our memories' and both were in abundance there.

But there was more, we continued to Seattle for time with friends and then spent some time in Victoria B.C....our first visit . We had a great B/B that was a 5 minute walk to the Harbor and lots of opportunity and great weather for walking and exploring, especially the beautiful Butchart Gardens.

An Update from CA: Sue has just begun a water therapy exercise program that we are hopeful will help her at this time. Both the therapist and Sue were encouraged by just one visit. Please pray that time and help in transportaion will allow Sue to continue this on a regular basis. Dana just had shoulder surgery and is recovering so there are still issues to pray for but our God does richly supply as my post above records.

Today Isaiah 40 reminded me once again of how amazing it is to be personally gathered in God's arms and snuggled, like a shepherd with his lamb, and realize this is the same God who stretched out the heavens like a curtain, created the stars and calls them by name and measured the waters in the hollows of His hand.

We are blessed to belong to Him.

2008-07-09T11:57:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

FINISHING WELL

I listened yesterday to the funeral service for Senator Jesse Helms. It was a praise to God with testimonies of many to his kindness, humility and integrity. In both his public and private life he was known and respected for "keeping his promises" and "being willing to compromise on preferences but never on principles."

The scripture verse read that seemed to best fit his life was from Micah 6 and says "He has told you O man, what is good and what the Lord requires of you; but to do justice and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God."

Reflecting on this man's life caused me to think back a day earlier when Logan, Jordan and I did my Meals on Wheels Route. God has blessed me with a route of mostly 80 and 90 year olds who, even though diabetes, arthritis, and recent loss of immediate family are real in one form or another in their lives, don't dwell on 'these things' but because of their love for the Lord are kind and sweet and full of praise for Him.

Their eyes crinkle with laughter when they tell me stories of past days and look with compassion at me when checking on Sue's condition and love it if I see a need in their lives and pray for them right there. Their life's footprint when God takes them home (and he took a favorite just last month) may not be as large to the world as that of Jesse Helms, yet they have shown to me over and over again in the past 4 years those same qualities mentioned above: justice, kindness, humility, love.

Some months ago a friend and I, in looking at our aging parents as well as our kids coming along behind us determined that for the Lord's sake and then for the sake of our children we not only wanted 'to do life' well now, but to finish it well too.

I'm grateful to God for letting me rub shoulders with these dear, sweet Meals on Wheels friends of Jesus. As I see them monthly they are giving me good instruction on How To Finish Well.

Maxine
Posted by ozzbee at 5:12 AM 0 comments

2008-06-25T05:18:00.001-07:00

CAMP OSTBY
This is as good as it gets...our 6 kids along with our 8 grandkids, a beautiful house right on the beach and perfect weather. Sue has done well this week, we girls took 2 long walks on the beach, about a mile each time and she got to get nice and wet as Nicko and Dana took her into the waves.
God truly blessed our week and we've extended it in part because, now back in Wake Forest, we still have Dana, Sue and family here, Mark andTam and family 10 minutes away and Logan and Jordan (Kent and Kradan's kids) for another week. (Just couldn't get Kent to take another week off work!)
Our screened in porch is a perfect place for reading and thinking early in the morning and there's a Carolina Wren who sits on our flagpole and sings to me which definitely adds to the charm.
Yesterday while reading the following from O.Chambers "You can never give another person that which you have found, but you can make him homesick for what you have."
my thoughts immediatelly went to Sue. How she is walking through her suffering, I believe, make many 'homesick for what she has', which is a sweet, sweet closeness with Jesus".
And actually, in maybe a less significant way, as believers we should all be making someone 'homesick for what we have', by how we 'do life'...face hardship, react to tough times, have joy in everyday things. A smile at a grouchy clerk in a supermarket, asking your server in a restaurant if they have a prayer request you can add when you pray for your food, there are lots of little ways to show Christ's love...I'm learning more all the time.
Posted

THE PILOT'S HALO

2008-06-02T04:50:00.000-07:00

On a CA flight some time ago God reminded of His protection over His people with a beautiful 'visual'. We were flying above solid clouds with the shadow of our plane clearly outlined against them and then, because the sun was evidently shining behind us, it created a 'circular rainbow', completely around the plane. Whether we increased or decreased our speed, whether we gained altitude or flew lower, we remained in that beautiful circle.

I've since learned from a pilot this is referred to as a pilot's halo and doesn't happen often, only when conditions are just right. (In fact, with all the traveling I do, I've only seen it twice and I always look for it.) Yet in God's economy the conditions are always 'just right' for His circle of protection around His own. Cool thought to start off the day knowing He will never leave us or forsake us...that His Holy Spirit encircles us always.

This is beach month for the Ostbys. Please pray for us as we enjoy our wonderful week togther at Topsail; this year Caleb will be in Peru on a Missions Trip..he'll be missed, especially by his cousins..they love the week the most because all of the cousins are together.

Please pray too for Dana and Sue as they travel; technically speaking it would be easier to stay home, and we're glad they don't, but it's challenging for all of them.

Please pray too that Trudi will get off for all or at least most of the week from her job at Starbucks, June is a popular vacation month.

Biggest news from our 4 acres: we now have five huge turtles in our pond and 'have given birth' to two broods of Carolina Wrens (one in a hanging basket on my porch ... had to let the flowers die so I wouldn't drown the babies) and one in Gene's fishing creel in the garage (their favorite spot)....plus one brood of Bluebirds..they're working on their second nest as I write this.

Happy summer,

Maxine

2008-05-23T03:22:00.000-07:00

Spring 2008

And what a great spring it's been here in Wake Forest (even though I just picked a tic off) we've had beautiful weather, beautiful flowers blooming and our time is approaching to have our whole family together for the beach..yahoo!

Just returned from a quick week in CA to help Dana, Sue and the kids do some shopping etc and get ready to come.

Sue's condition still declines somewhat, but certainly not her spirit. She blesses us as she walks through each day with a smile on her face and praise on her lips. She was recently given a special award in San Jose for her great contribution as a wife and mother.

A song I often play on my guitar in the mornings reminds me of Sue these days:

"When through the deep waters I call thee to go,
the rivers of sorrow shall not overflow;
for I will be with thee , thy troubles to bless,
and sanctify to thee thy deepest distress."

Also had the great fun of doing a 10K with Nicko in CA (he ran with a bud, I walked) and it was right on the beach.

Have a great day in Jesus.

LAST CA VISIT

2008-04-18T08:40:00.000-07:00

April 18

I've been home a week now from my last CA visit. It was great because my honey got to go with me.

The highlight of the trip was a surprise 50th birthday party for Dana held at a hundred acre park with families and food galore and he totally surprising him.

It was almost as good for Sue as for Dana because she so wanted to honor him and give him a special day which is hard to do with the physical limits she has. But her great planning and her faithful friends pulled it off.

The next day Sue and I had a visit with her Lyme specialist in Malibu CA and had a great mom-daughter day being together for 14 hours (we were tired when we got home) but it was such fun.

Dr. Harris' new treatment plans for Sue:

aggressively treat Sue for Babesia (another parasitic infection caused by ticks)
evaluate treatment in one month, May 13th
take Sue safely off other rigorous medicines to alleviate the difficult meds schedule
continue on 3 antibiotics, a few natural supplements and Parkinsons meds

Prayer requests:

pray Sue will be able to handle side effects and they won't bee too severe. (The treatment can have very bad side effects for 3-4 days. That's one way the doctors can know they are targeting the right infection.)
continue to pray without ceasing for her healing; that our Sovereign God will answer according to His divine plan
pray that she will not lose heart, that inwardly she will be renewed day by day, that God will give her songs in the night. 2 Cor 5:16, Ps. 42:8
like Jabez, pray God will continue to increase her influence for his Kingdom. I Ch 4:10

Thanks for caring and praying. Last night Sue had a bad fall and had to go to ER for 5 stitches. One of her most stressful falls; when I asked Dana how he was doing he replied 'after we saw she was ok and we all quit crying, we're doing well.'

All the above followed after a large group of people prayed and fasted for Sue over a 40 day period and though we'd like to see some different anwers for Sue on His behalf we trust His love and His sovreignty in Sue's life.

Maxine

2008-01-06T10:36:00.000-08:00

PRAISE, PRAISE, PRAISE!

I forgot in my eagerness to tell you about the storm and my desire to put Sue's condition at present before you, to yet Praise God for how he continues to bless this family.

As I read Kent's blog a few minutes ago when he talked about our coming year and the great challenges, blessings and heartaches (paraphrased) we can all look forward to in the coming year, I'm still reminded of the lyrics:

His Grace still amazes me...

and that's what I see happening when I think: 'how can Sue continue to have her big smile when she is so challenged to do just a little bit of life'; how can Dana keep up with his schedule and yet so patiently and lovingly serve Sue and the kids; how can the kids remain joyful and cheerful when there is/could be so much stress within their home...and it all comes back to

HIS GRACE

It is working mightily here. Please pray that it continues to and pray especially for Sue that she will do two things that the doctors can't do for her: discipline herself to get more rest (earlier to bed) which helps both her and Dana and work at keeping herself hydrated.

Bye,

Maxine

2008-01-06T09:45:00.000-08:00

A NOTE FROM STORMY CALIFORNIA...

Yes, we've had some severe storms, in fact, for those of you who prayed about our trip to Escondido for a wedding...we didn't go. I had to make a decision about the drive and high winds, flash floods and heavy rains were predicted for our exact route down therefore I didn't feel the responsible thing to do was expose the family to those conditions for a 6 hr drive; particularly since Sue has been feeling extremely fatigued since Christmas with no reserves for that kind of a trip.

I felt bad saying no but someone had to make the call...the kids were great. Once the initial disappointment was over they turned it around and decided to 'go camping' in the living room.

Karis wanted to know if we had a tent and I said 'no, but remember when you were little all you needed were chairs and blankets to drape over them.' So the tent has been up for two days; Friday we added 5 high school boys and had a 'full house'. They roasted hot dogs in the fireplace, played cards and other board games and had a great day while it stormed like crazy outside.

We had some blood work drawn for Sue Sat. Dana thinks she's anemic although it may just be post Christmas fatigue. We all push hard during the season and Sue has no reserve to push from but she pushes anyway. She felt much better yesterday with an extra day's rest so hopefully she's on the road to some better days.

Still lots of testing, watching, trying new combinations of meds to work on the Lyme and Bartinella diseases. A friend's physician brother told here over the holidays that the infectious disease partner in their group automatically refers all Lyme cases someplace else because 'it takes such a long time to track and treat it and we just don't have/want to take the time out of our practice to do it.'

Bittersweet because it is an admission that there is lots of it around but also validates the point (made on most Lyme websites) that it isn't fast or easy to treat.

Dana did make it to the wedding so the family was represented; they were sad we couldn't come as we were but I feel it was the right thing to do. Sue said she had bathed it in prayer too and felt relieved when she heard my decision.

I've just dropped the kids off at Sunday School and come back for Sue so we can go to church. One service is what she manages best these days.

She remains active on their Missions Committee and she and Karis worked last evening to creates something special for table decorations for their conference in March; she'll share it at their meeting tomorrow evening.

Thanks for listening and God Bless You.

Maxine

2007-12-16T16:34:00.000-08:00

UPDATE FROM CALIFORNIA...

Gene and I just returned from a pre-Christmas trip to our CA Ostbys...to take gifts, decorate the tree and enjoy hot cider and popcorn, see a beautiful musical at their church and then dash back home to get ready for Christmas here as we welcome our two east coast families for Christmas.

Thanks to you all for praying. We found Sue much the same EXCEPT she has started falling again which is really dangerous to her and so we'd like special prayer for her equilibrium and balance. As usual, she doesn't complain and has thrown herself into the joy of Christmas with her family even though everything takes her lots longer and consumes so much energy.

And while I speak about the prayer needs I don't want to overlook two great praises:

God is so faithful to minister his Word to us when we are open to Him. The 2nd night we were in CA I woke up in the middle of the night so burdened for the needs I saw that I couldn't 'fix' and as I tossed and turned but couldn't sleep, a familiar verse from Psalms flooded my mind "Be still and know that I am God". Exactly my need, right then, to trust God for the needs, to know that God would burden people to pray for what He knows they need, to remember that He is God, I'm not and leave it there.
Second praise, their church has set up a fund for those who have wanted to help them financially and weren't sure how (thanks Small Group for praying...it happened the next day)!

We had quite an adventure coming home; got stuck in Los Angeles, then got stuck again in Dallas..with no more flights to Raleigh so we caught a flight to D.C. and got to bed there at 2am...then today our flight to Raleigh couldn't land due to high winds; after two attempts we went to Greensborough, stayed 10 minutes, then back to Raleigh with another aborted attempt at landing and then..ONE MORE TIME...and we did it..so somewhere in my minds eye I see us trying to land 5 times at Raleigh and finally succeeding on the last attempt...a bit of a white knuckle trip but I always figure the pilot wants to get there safely as much as I do so let him do his job. He did get some big time prayer support from both Gene and I, I must admit.

We're reminded the reason for the season often, we just need to remember and do it! He's so worthy of our adoration and praise.

Maxine

2007-11-13T06:52:00.000-08:00

PERSPECTIVE OF PRAYER

Last week in CA we were having lunch out on the deck and the sandwich plate was nearing empty with only one half of a sandwich remaining. Alisha said 'I want another half, does anyone else? Sue replied she did so Alisha sail 'I'll go in and make another sandwich for mom and I to split. Karis replied 'wait, you don't have to make another one, all you have to do is cut this one in half.' When we reminded her that this would only give Alisha and Sue a quarter of a sandwich she said 'Oh, when I eat a sandwich it's always just a half, so when I think of a whole sandwich I see it as only a half.

What does a Perspective of Prayer have to do with a tuna sandwich...obviously a good question.
Back in Wake Forest just in time for Sunday morning church, Larry preached an excellent sermon on 'Staying Sane in a Crazy Pace.' I suspect very few reading this cannot identify completely. He took us through specific parts of the gospels showing us that Christ's way, (whether it was renewing himself after great healing miracles, in sorrow as on hearing of John the Baptist's death, or before making vital decisions:choosing the Apostles) was to spend great amounts of time ALONE WITH THE FATHER...one of my favorite verses along those lines is Matthew 5:16 "but He Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray.

So what does a Perspective of Prayer have to do with a tuna sandwich? I'm glad you asked. Websters Dictionary says on perspective 'a specific point of view in understanding or judging things or events, especially one that shows them in their true relation to one another.'

Just as Karis' perspective of a half sandwich as really being a whole was from her point of view, I find my perspective, my specific point of view in understanding or judging things or events, especially one that shows them in their true relation to one another is affected greatly by spending time with the Father and His Word, especially as much as possible first thing in the day.

An update on Sue: we've started with her 2nd new doctor and look forward to what he'll do for her..I'll let you know.

Maxine

2007-11-03T07:53:00.000-07:00

November 2...Isn't this supposed to be Daylight Savings Weekend???

BACK IN CALIFORNIA....where the weather is beautiful, albeit a bit of fog thrown in which caused Dana's flight to be moved from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara and a longer drive for me and definitely a longer flight for him as he missed connections and had to do a "Red Eye" into Raleigh and go directly to his conference.

SUE is beginning a new treatment "Cowden Protocol", all natural regimen, and I'm hopeful to learn more about just what they see it doing in her body when we see her new doctor on Wednesday. I'll let you know.

Sue continues to bring joy to those around her as she deals with her life as it is today; in a recent testimony at a Missions Conference she shared that God had revealed to her how very much He loves her...just as she is...just as she was when she had a "fuller ministry in Indonesia", just as she will be in whatever the days ahead bring, it is the knowledge of God's great love for her ...just as she is that is so meaningful. What an important thing for each of us to dwell on...in our hearts and in our minds.

Do you ever stop to think how powerfully our minds dictate to us..our emotions...our choices...no wonder God tells us it's VITAL to renew our minds daily.

As we put His truth into our minds our perspective becomes less self centered and more God centered. Beth Moore takes it a step further asking God to invade her dream life, her thoughts when she sleeps and every closet in her brain putting His truth into the innermost parts of her mind, even those she doesn't know exist. I WANT THAT!

Have a great weekend! I'm off to walk for an hour at the beach...Half Marathon Training...not just fun (smile).

Maxine

PS....LeeinAG ..you commented a while back on my blog about doctors but I don't know how to reach you. I'm assuming you live in AG...my email is OzzBee@aol.com if you want to contact me.

M.

LIMA OHIO

2007-10-15T07:22:00.000-07:00

GOOD MORNING FROM LIMA, OHIO where we are visiting dear friends this week, 3 days after leaving Sue, Dana and kids in CA. They are doing well although Sue is now beginning the intial portion of a detox program which means more new things to take ... I did a sorta' spread sheet for her to help her figure out..before meals, after meals, with meals etc.

As usual she continues to walk through her days with great joy and thankfulness for the goodness of others to her family and especially the goodness of God in their lives.

In Ephesians today I was reminded that God has blessed me RIGHT NOW..TODAY.. with every Spiritual blesssing (not the physical blessings of this world, the 4 B's as my pal Dave Jones used to say: Beauty, Brawn, Brains & Bucks )but what really counts...EVERY spiritual blessing. He's not doling it out a little at a time..or waiting for me to earn or desrve it..it's there, given to me..us but we have to live in it, claim it.

Those blessing are what allow us to 'watch over our hearts with all diligence' as Proverbs 4 reminds us. We certainly can't do it without the Holy Spirit's work in us.

We're enjoying not only good friends here in Lima, but their good friends also and, as usual, lots of good food.

Today we're headed for a Flea Market and then who knows what...

Thanks for tuning in...Maxine

2007-10-01T03:59:00.000-07:00

Good Morning On This 1st Day of October

I'm off to CA again tomorrow morning as Dana begins 10 days of travel for various meetings on the East Coast and to look in on Grandma who is still in Rehab trying to gain strength so we can bring her home.

PLEASE PRAY for Sue as we continue getting her started on the de-tox from the aggressive antibiotic regimen she's been on (cleaning out those unwelcome toxins from her blood stream) etc plus the new regimen of natural supplements to strengthen her...it's not as simplistic as that but remember, I'm a 'layman'.

There are new doctors and new protocols to get used to and, if you've never been there, it's amazing how complicated it can be until we get a handle on all of the 'new things'. Also her PICCLINE may need to be removed soon and we're hopeful it can stay in a bit longer for use with the new protocol. We'll get that checked out while I'm there.

Please pray too for Millie to respond well to her therapy so she can come home by the end of the week or shortly thereafter.

In the book of Psalms, the first Psalm contrasts the difference between the blessed man and the wicked man. One of the things said about the blessed man is that 'his delight is in the law of the Lord' and in this instance the meaning of the word delight is 'to bend toward' as a plant will bend in whatever direction the light is coming to it for nourishment, so we are to bend toward...delight in God's Word.

Hope your day includes delighting in Him.

Maxine

2007-09-25T16:56:00.000-07:00

A FAST WEEK IT'S BEEN IN CA....

And tomorrow we head home, although I'll be coming back in less than a week as Dana has some traveling to do.

This has been a good time though; Sue once again saw Dr.Harris, a Lyme specialist who's beginning treatment with her. First with de-toxing her body after such a long period of aggressive antibiotics, then in conjunction with a Naturopath here in A. G.to do some alternative treatment with supplements etc. So the months ahead we trust will show some positive change for Sue though we don't, of course, know exactly what the progress will be. PLEASE PRAY that God will work mightily here!

Meanwhile, Millie is in Rehab in Wake Forest and we're hoping she'll be strong enough to come home soon.

Through it all God has been so faithful to everyone here with both big and little things. It's been fun having Gene here this time; he finished off a few big projects that I couldn't begin to do. ... like hanging some beautiful intricately carved framed mirrors as well as some smaller jobs. This morning he and Sue's dad had breakfast together...they're good buds and have a great time the rare opportunities they have. In fact Roger is 84 today and we are going over to celebrate with Mud Pie...I strongly suspect I won't want to get near a scale for at least 2 weeks...out here everyone wants to get together and often around food.

Had a chance to meet with the Women's Bible Study I am connected with (and attend about once every 6 weeks)...it's sweet to have fellowship wherever I go; they are currently studying Matthew.

I'll see all you N.C. folks soon. Hope it's cooler when we get there!

Maxine

2007-09-19T06:11:00.000-07:00

CALIFORNIA....

Here we are in CA (6am here, 9am EST)...Nick and I are just leaving for the beach, he to surf an hour before school, me to walk...it's not light yet.

PLEASE PRAY for Sue's appointment at 3:30 today with Dr. Harris, that I'll ask the right questions and get the right info down to take home...AN ADDED BLESSING WOULD BE IF SUE'S VOICE WAS THERE SO SHE TOO COULD COMMUNICATE.

I remember Eph....God is able to do over and above all that we think or ask.

Flights yesterday were great...school is in session and what a difference it made.

Maxine

2007-09-10T04:40:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

FALL MUST BE HERE BECAUSE...the calendar says September, I'm thinking about my Christmas List plus NFL football has started which will pre-empt many tv shows which I don't watch anyway but Grandma does...SO WHY DOESN'T THE WEATHER KNOW IT? We continue with 90+ degree heat.

Once again, my weekly blog is making its monthly appearance; but I'm keeping that thought...that eventually it will be weekly..whether it's read that often or not, I want the discipline of it and 'I like to share'.

It's been a good week, especially the weekend when Kent was up to join Mark for the Nebraska game in Wake Forest...got to gather family around in bits and pieces with the busy schedules everyone has. However the biggest football highlight was not Nebraska beating Wake Forest but Logan intercepting a pass in his game at home. We're looking forward to spending some time in Marietta next month and catching one of his games.

And next week we're off to CA to catch up on family there; check in on Nick and Karis' adventures in public high school and plan a visit to Sue's new Lyme Dr. We're so enjoying new friendships there as we (especially me) are there more often and get blessed with their church family as well as our own and friends from when we were AG residents. This will be a special visit because we both get to go as Gene's sister will stay with Grandma... PLUS we'll reconnect with a friend who began his career at the same time and with Gene many years ago.

"Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place, I can feel His mighty power and His grace, I can hear the brush of angel's wings I see glory on each face; surely the presence of the Lord is in this place."

Has anyone heard this old praise chorus before? As I strummed it on my guitar this morning I was so grateful that any 'place' I am, His presence is right there too. I don't have to be in a church setting, or a Christian concert (I think that's the thought of the song) to know God is listening; or as in former days when God's presence was in the ark and traveled with the Israelites but they could not personally approach Him.

Have a great week and stay cool if you're in the southeast with us!

Maxine

2007-08-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

August 8, 2007

MEXICO TEAM: 17 college students, 4 families (2 with small kids)

What a great adventure we had. Sue did very well most days; she did have a few harder days when, towards the end of the week the weather got hot. Until then we were blessed with low 80's most days as a high. (Coolest part of the week was when I got a bucket of cold water dumped on me the last day!) Sue's very presence, had she done nothing else but be there, was such a rich blessing to the rest of us, especially the college women.

However, Sue contributed much more than her presence; her deep thinking and great heart for Missions spurred messages for Dana to deliver to the kids who came for Missions Camp (approx 65 kids ranging from 5-15...and they spent the night with us!!!!!!) as well as to the team itself. We had one large room that was decorated to display different religions: Hindu, Muslim, Unreligious, Buddhist, Tribal. Sue's creativity helped us as we draped fabric, hung maps and posters etc for this primary display. One touching moment in this room was when one of our team members found one of the youngest boys standing in front of the Hindu Map with his hand placed on it; with tears in her eyes she said she felt the Holy Spirit might indeed be raising him up as a Missionary for these people.

Personally, from my point of view it was a great week seeing my kids as well as my grandkids deep in ministry. I got to mix in with it all too...first three days I spent mornings shoveling sand into a dump truck for delivery to the Obstacle Course we constructed...didn't give me great biceps but did keep my tan going...also got to help decorating the above mentioned room and there were always times of opportunity to help out in the kitchen, one day in particular when there were several great needs.

One of the very best parts was hanging with the college youth, especially the women. Gene and I were college sponsors for many years when our kids were in school and this was a reminder of how special these young adults are. Also the other adult team members were mostly new to me and they were so much fun...a great blessing to be there.

Thanks for listening...back to CA in four days...that will be good.

Maxine

2007-07-16T06:54:00.000-07:00

California Update

Wow...I'm not sure where to start; because there's so much to pray for I'm going to begin by telling you how God has blessed my heart before I tell you how needy I feel today.

The other morning while walking on the beach at low tide God gave me a beautiful word picture. I'd walked my 3 miles on the glistening, hard packed sand and was then walking the 1/2 block of deep, dry sand (maybe wallowing in it is a better description) to get to my car and thinking what a difference in the two.

And right then, God reminded me how alike the above was to walking in the Spirit..I don't tire, it's joyful, I feel like I could keep going forever, I'm not thinking of what's coming next;...versus walking in the flesh, without faith in Your provision for my day and for those I love...it's like walking in that deep sand...I tire easily, I'm more likely to stumble, I'm not too happy with what I'm doing.

And yes, I wrestle with the next thing...leaving it with Him. It's sorta' like Mesquite, our dog, who walks up to me with her ball to play...she wants to have it thrown so she can chase it, but she loves it so much she holds on to it and has a hard time letting it go long enough for me to toss it..Isn't it cool how God gives us such everyday things to relate to about Him and his watchcare over us.

Here are some things I'd love to have you pray for:

Sue has been very weak...increased energy
Karis and Nick have to finish off summer school work and begin work for next year at AG High (they're both taking AP classes that start them working a month before school starts)
Appointment with Dr Harris on Thursday, one of the very best Lyme's docs
Sue and I need to create a medical history since she got sick for that appt and the thought of it shuts her down because of all the emotional pain it brings to mind
I think I'm struggling more with the emotional aspects here than the physical ones (mounds of laundry are much more welcome than seeing Sue so weak)
Sue is feeling the weight of the kids needs for school (have I done enough for them)

I was so glad to be reminded in Psalms 121 and 124 this am that the Lord is on our side and our help is in the name of the Lord, Who made heaven and earth..that He will guard our going out and coming in and will protect us from all evil.

Thanks for listening,
Maxine

2007-06-28T04:27:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

I've been out picking raspberries with only a few scratches to show for when I had to reach deeply into the bush to make sure I got all those red, scrumptious berries. It took more time than I'd planned because when I first looked there didn't seem to be that much of a harvest. Instead of stopping after my first round of picking I decided to get down on my knees and see if there were more there, and, sure enough, there were. But I still didn't quit because as I picked I, of course, sampled and decided the effort was definitely worth it. Finally, as a final thought, I spotted a long , stout stick laying nearby (no doubt a left over from our recent grandkids visit) and picking it up, I started parting the bush using the stick to protect from the thorns and voila!...more berries.My perservering yielded me approximately 4 times the amount of berries that I had found on my first foray.

How like our adventures into God's Word. A quick glance through will surely give us something, however, some continued looking, re-reading, thinking through and looking again will give much deeper insights into what the Holy Spirit wants to teach our hearts. It does TAKE TIME, a commodity that seems in such short supply but the pay-off is so worth it.

Now an update on Sue. After a wonderful month's visit they're home again in CA. It was so good to have them here; Sue has wonderful connections with friends and family here and it encourages her greatly through the suffering she is walking through right now. And because she is walking though it God's way (no poor me or why me) she is a delight to be with, full of joy. She commented that one of the things God has taught her this year is you can live with great joy and great suffering at the same time. She's such a people person and her voice has taken a hit now too which makes communication difficult, yet she hangs in there because, as I told her, "relationship" not "Joan" is her middle name...and she does it so well.

She'll have a consultation with another Lymes doc July 19 in Redwood City so please pray for that and also, she would like to go with Dana and the kids to lead a Missions Team to Mexico. That will be difficult but she (and the entire family) have not let difficult change their lives.

Have a great week.

Maxine

2007-06-06T07:28:00.000-07:00

TOPSAIL N.C.
Good Morning...as they say, it's a tough life but somebody's gotta' do it and so God is blessing our wonderful family, all 16 of us, with a wonderful week at the beach. The weather is great, a few showers here and there and even those accompanied by some gorgeous rainbows.

Yesterday's highlight was a Nertz Tournament organized by 8 year old Logan plus the annual Cousins's Birthday Party.

Also yesterday, Sue had an unusually hard day; it's good to have them here so everyone can be more tuned in than ever to her needs as we pray.

This morning I was reading in Ezra about the unity of the believers when they were ready to rebuild the temple and I was reminded of the unity of believers who have been praying for Sue and Dana and what a tremendous blessing that is.

Have a great week!

Maxine

2007-05-29T03:19:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day Weekend

This first weekend home from CA has been a hazy, lazy weekend..hazy from East Coast humidity, lazy because I was and so glad to be back with my honey poking around the yard, looking at what's blooming in the garden (yum..berries are getting ripe), poppies are through blooming and we need rain for the dry grass and a good book to finish.

Best of all, remembering the sacrifices of our men and women over the years on behalf of their country; when you travel abroad another element of the blessings of this country is added.

We're looking forward to our annual week at the beach, this year ALL OF THE COUSINS will be there...yahoo!

While in CA I had one morning to walk on the beach; besides the great view and exercise there's always something to observe people, their pets, sea critters (sand crabs, sea gulls, pelicans, sand pipers.) This particular morning I watched as a black lab spotted an injured sea gull floating on the waves, unable to fly. The dog didn't actually go in for the final blow and kill it BUT he harassed it by continually barking at it, nipping close to it and overhwhelmingly intimidating the poor gull.

How like Satan's wiles on the Believer; he finds our vulnerability, and then works on us, snapping, chasing, intimidating, to cause fear and immobilize us.

Saw a great movie last night "Facing Giants"; done by a church in GA, with no paid actors; the GA Buldogs coach even has a bit part. It was challenging and amidst lots of high school football presented a great spiritual message/challenge.

Keep praying for energy for Sue for Thursday when they fly. Please pray too for Mark as he bikes 140 miles to the beach while we drive...and that our Ostby week at the beach will be the blessing it usually is.

Maxine

2007-05-22T06:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers Day

Belated, Yes! but it's gotta' be this way because I've committed to writing weekly and, had I really done so, I'd have written the day after instead of 2 weeks later. Speaking of Mothers Day I got a great card from one of my kids ... began with "Mom, I know I wasn't always the easiest kid to raise" and on opening the card there sat a 3 year old boy in a highchair with a glass of beer in one hand and a half smoked cigar in the other. I have another son who occasionally calls and wishes me a Happy Mothers Day on his birthday...sound thinking!

My Mothers Days are always great because I can reflect on the goodness of God to me through my kids. I'm here in CA with our kids now helping Dana and Sue get ready to come spend a month on the East Coast.

Sue's health hasn't changed a great deal, lots of challenges with energy, speech, mobility but still much joy in the Lord for all five. Some days are tougher than others, yesterday was one.

Pray for her energy level for the month of June especially as they travel. Also pray for an appt with a Lymes doc, Dr. Harris, who is tops in his field; Sue's current Lymes doc wants her to see him for a one time consultation and I'm having a hard time getting through for an appt. It's one of those places where you never get to talk to a real person. I'm willing to continue being persistent (you know that) but it would free more time for me if they'd just respond!

You moms (and dads) will relate here, one of the toughest things I face is seeing my kids suffer; yet as I was reading in 1st Samuel last week, Hannah made her petetion at the temple for a child and when she left she dried her tears and her face was no longer sad. A good reminder, I can weep with my kids but then if I truly leave them to the Lord, my countenance needs to reflect it.

Meanwhile, I was reminded of a song that a dear missionary, Hubert Mitchell, used to sing at our church:

"He giveth more grace when the burden grows greater,
To every affliction, He addeth His mercy
To multiplied trials, He multiplies peace."

That's one among many prayers I pray for these guys here; as our world is today, they are incredibly busy and I know you can all relate to that.

Thanks for hanging out with me for awhile; my flights were smooth coming and I return Saturday to get ready for our week at the beach.

Maxine

2007-04-29T16:47:00.000-07:00

SPRING IN WASHINGTON D.C.

Yesterday I did a quick trip up to D.C. to meet my sister-in-law for lunch and with a few extra hours I re-visited a favorite spot. I'd worked behind the Senate office buildings where there are some beautiful little parks planted with dogwood and azaleas as only D.C. does...over and above.

Just as they were in previous springs it was a picture perfect stroll; a shower the night before had blown most of the petals from the dogwoods in two particular areas so the sidewalk was completely pink...lots of big puffy white clouds overhead and the azaleas in full bloom made it well worth the brisk hike up Capitol Hill. There's a carillon there too and walking around it reading the tributes to men of integrity, wisdom, compassion who had served in the two houses of congress I was convicted to spend my time returning through the Capitol grounds in prayer for those already serving and those who would be elected to serve in the coming elections.

As I continued my walk down Pennsylvania Avenue I was approached by a demonstrator who asked if she could hand me her literature proclaiming we "GET OUT OF GITMO". I told her absolutely not to which she replied "Oh, you're pro-torture"; "no," I said, "I'm pro-American"which earned me a snort of derision as she stomped away.

Well, it didn't ruin my walk but made me grateful for Who walks with me as I saw only anger and bitterness in her countenance and made me very thankful for the hope I have and the fact that Christ not only sees the big picture but, as Colossians says 'holds it all together'.

Sue is still tolerating the antibiotics well but there has been some concern with a possible infection at the source of the PICCLINE so please pray for that to clear up.

Thanks for tuning in.

M.

2007-04-20T11:09:00.000-07:00

"Now to Him Who, by the power that is at work within us, is able to do superabundantly, far over and above all that we dare ask or think, infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes or dreams"... Ephesians 3:20 Amplified Bible

I was so glad someone shared this verse, in this version at Dana and Sue's Small Group Bible Study the night before our appointment with Sue's Lymes physician. The fact that she isn't yet experiencing relief in her symptoms has been discouraging and Dr. G. affirmed what he'd originally told us, 'it can take a long time of treatment to see change'. He also began a second antibiotic to more aggressively treat the Lymes (this one goes after the cyst form of Lymes) and recommended she have a one-time consultation with another Lymes doctor who is tops in his field, and fortunately, in CA.

Sue is tolerating the heavy doses of antibiotics, the weekly blood tests that monitor her liver prove that and we're grateful that is true and pray that will be the case with the new drug added.

So, back to my opening verse, the gal who shared it with us had an absolutely amazing story to tell of how God had worked 'superabundantly, far over and above all that she had dared ask or think, infinitely beyond her highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes or dreams". And that is what we are believing and praying for Sue, regardless of what we see now, we know that God's part of her story isn't finished by far.

It's such a joy to see Sue interact with people; her arms are outstretched in greeting to show how glad she is to see them, her smile is radiant, and her words (even though they are harder for her to speak) are full of love and encouragement. She truly is a blessing to people, even when it's tough going.

So now, I'm back in NC until next month, grateful for the opportunities He gives to go out and be a part of their lives.

Thanks for praying and staying in touch. I actually have decided I need to blog weekly or not at all so I'm going to giveweekly a try til the end of summer. Feel free to hold me accountable if you read this and don't see one in a week.

Maxine

PS The other big news from CA was Alisha assisting as their mama goat, Lilly, gave birth to 2 baby goats; unfortunately a bobcat or coyote got one the next night but the other is fine and thriving.

They're looking forward to being here for a few weeks in June so plan on coming by to see them.

It's Great To Be In Atlanta

2007-03-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

It's Great To Be In Atlanta...

because my favorite Saucer Magnolia trees are blooming fully, forsythia too is in full bloom, but BEST OF ALL, I'm here with our kids and grandkids...they're all such an encouragement to me and just plain fun to be with. We've done the typical fun stuff you do with 8 and 11 year olds, baseball practice, quiz bowls, movies, a stop at Chick-Fil-A for milkshakes. Last night was pizza with their small group and Kent leading...it's good to be in the Word with them and see how God leads their lives. SUPER BONUS was getting to read Kent's new book; he's done a great job, I had about 120 pages left to read yesterday and had planned to do it in installments during the day but I was so hooked I stayed in my PJs after everyone was gone to school and work til I finished ...way past lunch time.

In a few days I'll meet my honey in Dallas as we head to CA for a week to see those kids in a drama presentation they've been working on for months. As far as we know, Sue's not had any adverse reaction to the PICC line and meds it contains. We're praying for the meds to really kick in even sooner than is expected and that she will benefit greatly.

Reading today in Joshua I was really set to thinking as I saw Joshua commanded to be strong and very courageous...carefully follow all of the Lord's Word, so that he WOULD BE successful and the Lord WOULD BE with Him. It's repeated to him multiple times in the 1st chapter of Joshua. I then thought of what Joshua's task was and taking that grumbling bunch of Israelites into the Promised Land seemed somehow a much bigger task than my 'to do lists' that send me into such a frenzy so many days of my life. THEN I realized God's instructions are the same for me as they were for Joshua...'look at Me and what I've shown you in my Word and trust Me' , not your list, not yourself but look to Me. A good reminder that I need often.

It's good to be with you all as you read our news,

2007-03-01T15:54:00.000-08:00

How great is our God, sing with me how great is our God, all creation sings how great, how great is our God...

those praises and more resounded in our house Tuesday about 11am when we had finally confirmed that Sue's PICC line would go in even though we expected no medication going in for a day or two. BUT GOD gave us a wonderful RN at the hospital and she, along with the person responsible for the gift of Rocephin, worked it out so Sue could have her first dose at the same time....administered by me.

But one of the coolest things was after we got the 11am phone call we all sat us down and talked..and God really ministered to all our hearts about what was going to happen, how it might or might not change life for Sue in the months and maybe years to come and how, much as we love Sue, the bottom line still is HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD. The kids response was wonderful. Why, I thought, when they're such great kids anyway, do they have to be a part of this purifying suffering yet as Dana and Sue both reminded me, we don't want to turn down a chance for God to work in each of our lives.

It has been a hectic time beyond belief. Because of the way the drug is coming to Sue there were a lot of 'puzzle pieces' we had to put together and Sue and I especially felt great spiritual warfare the 24 hrs before the PICC Line went in but each time I just couldn't find another ounce of energy (or sometimes one more tear...one of the rare times I was weepy), God was there. It was a real demonstration of I John 4:4 'greater is He that is in us, than he who is in the world.'

Thank you all so much for your prayers; I was at the point that I didn't even have time to call people for extra prayer and instead was begging God to have people pray for us.

I'm heading home in two days and so looking forward to home..especially seeing my honey.

maxine

2007-02-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

Update from California

Keep Singing
Be a joyful daughter
What am I pouring my spiritual energy into...doing or being!
What defines my day..who I am in Christ..or a problem..a habit..a list
She smiles at tomorrow (Proverbs 31)

I have been seriously delinquent in keeping this blog up and God reminded me the first day I opened my journal here with those little reminders above that Martha had overtaken Mary (painting kitchen cabinets, cleaning cupboards etc etc etc) and was defining my day.

Even more so, on getting here and seeing the needs I was really ready to roll up my sleeves figuratively and forget everything but 'let's work'.

I'm so grateful to my precious Jesus that He had these words jump out and convict my heart so I've really chosen to hang on tight to the Lord during this time here.

WONDERFUL NEWS
A local hospital here is donating six months of the medicine Sue needs to get started with her treatment and 'between the lines' the insurance company will pay for the PICC line to be put in. This happens, hopefully, next Monday and the drug will start probably by Wednesday.

Prayer Needs: Nurses within the church body here to help out by administering the drug (a 2 gram portion called a 'popsicle' because it is stored and frozen in these units) as needed. This way we won't have to hire a home nurse to do this.
That she not only can handle the massive dose of antibiotic but that it will WORK EVEN MORE QUICKLY than it has in some past cases. Her speech is so difficult and it would be wonderful to see help, but we know that it usually takes a long time.
Energy and encouragement for Sue; it's hard to see her suffer but she's joyful.

I had an interesting conversation with the R N who installs the PICC line; when I mentioned how it needed to be done and billed she wanted to know Sue's diagnosis and her response was "oh yes, I work with Lymes patients often whose insurance will not pay for their meds."

Blessings to you all. Karis and I were just watching the sun come up and again those beautiful words came to mind:

Who taught the sun where to stand in the morning,
And who told the ocean, you can only come this far,
And who told the moon where to hide until morning,
And who alone can catch a falling star

How grateful I am that it is HE who is overseeing all of us..how can we lose?

Maxine

2007-01-21T03:56:00.000-08:00

THE JOY OF CHOOSING

I have a (reasonably) new cell phone and each name programmed in has the option of holding three numbers: cell, home and business, in that order. When I make a call it automaticall defaults to the cell number unless I make the choice to change it, which I usually do because I am most often calling someone at home.

How like life that is. I can wake up some/many mornings with a heaviness of what the day holds..or might hold..for me or for someone I treasure and default to gloom or anxiety or both.

Then, as with my cell phone, I have a choice. My glass can be half full or half empty. I can choose to trust God for the day or trust circumstances and live in a state of anxiety for the day.

Do you realize what a blessing it is to just be able to choose; we truly are fearfully and wonderfully made as scripture tells us.

Now, an update on Sue.

As I mentioned previously, insurance has denied paying for the drug to treat Lymes prescribed by Sue's physician. We're still working on an appeal to the drug company that produces the drug needed to defray the cost of it for her treatment and to the insurance company to reconsider their denial of payment for the drug treatment.

Please pray with us for God's intervention.

Maxine

2007-01-14T11:36:00.000-08:00

HERE'S A PICTURE OF MY LAST NIGHT IN CA

Three excited teens and one reasonably excited parent, 6 queen sized bedsheets, flashlights, one ten foot bamboo pool 4 in. in diameter, several large blankets and table cloths, squeals and groans, forty icy fingers and toes because of an outside temperature of 34 degrees, and a smudge pot ready to be lit for the dewpoint (coldest) hours of 4am-7am the next day..

So, what were those wild Ostbys up to..I should mention there were 2 saner ones..Sue and I who remained inside watching through the windows.

They were trying to protect two 25 foot tall orange trees loaded with fruit from the coldest weather Arroyo Grande had seen in 30 years.

It took awhile but they got the job done. The last look I had at 5am Saturday morning enroute to the airport, the trees looked good.

It's been a good week here in CA being with everyone and planting a few more roots of my own with the town and its people, some friends from many years ago, some newly discovered friends, all valued.

Unfortunately, Sue's insurance is digging in its heels about paying for the pic line with the antibiotic that her Lymes physician has prescribed. So at this point she's back on another medication while we appeal the process and investigate some other options we've heard of.

I'll leave you with a verse from Psalm 17 that I love; "keep me as the apple of Your eye, Hide me in the shadow of Thy wings." What a precious and absolutely safe place to be in 2007.

M.

NEW YEAR THOUGHTS

2007-01-05T04:55:00.000-08:00

NEW YEAR THOUGHTS

The new year does bring us to a time of new commitments for one reason or another; we want to grow in an area, improve a skill, leave behind a bad habit

I have enjoyed so much being challenged these early day of January by godly men and women to think deep thoughts about what really is important to choose for my life for the coming year(s) and what is well worth leaving behind.

Later this morning I'll be doing my Meals on Wheels route in rural Wake County and as I wrote the above words I thought of one of my sweet ladies on my last M/W visit. She is 91, has severe macular degeneration, is very bent over from osteoporosis, walks with the aid of a walker, BUT her best walking has been with her Lord these many years.

So was the visit spent hearing about her struggles with her health and other issues like fixed income, not at all. We talked about what was going on around us and, as I left, she walked me to the door (in her walker), raised both hands and prayed a blessing over me.

I want to make the kinds of choices in my life that will direct me in the path of being that kind of woman regardless of how many years the Lord gives.

PRAYER REQUEST...BIG TIME!

I leave for CA tomorrow, for only a week this time. This will likely be the time Sue has the picline put in for the antibiotic for the Lymes Disease treatment. The insurance company at this point is saying they may not pay for this treatment at all, or if they do it might only be for a month.

Sue's Lyme's doctor has indicated the treatment will be needed for months, possibly years so WE ARE PRAYING THAT during the first month of treatment Sue's response/improvement will be so dramatic that the insurance company will have no problem in seeing this is needed treatment and will cover it.

Of course, He may choose to solve the insurance dilemma another way; it's so good to know that He does know and will act accordingly.

2006-12-28T15:58:00.000-08:00

FRIENDS

I've been back from CA for approximately 10 days now and life has been full of friends.

Shortly after my return we hosted our friends from our small group bible study here for a non-traditional Mexican dinner complete with candle light, linen tablecloths, china and silver, Christmas music softly playing in the background (with the kids at another house munching pizza with a baby sitter.)

The rest of Christmas week was filled with other friends in and out as well as some of our family...and family at this house rates as some of our best friends. Turkey and the trimmings too made their appearance along with the traditional excitement of gifts etc, and now with the New Year approaching we're hosting New Years Eve, again non-traditionally (unless you live in the South), this time with a Low Country Boil. LCB begins with a BIG pot of steaming water laced with Crab Boil and contains corn on the cob, red potatoes, shrimp, kielbasa. It's drained and spread out over butcher paper covered tablecloths, no silverware, individual paper saucebowls filled with melted butter and cocktail sauce and loaves of french bread.

The common denominator in it all ... FRIENDS. I'm so grateful for all of you whether I've seen you this Christmas season or not. You are a treasure to me.

One of the last scenes in the Christmas movie, It's A Wonderful Life contains a note written to George which says 'a man with friends will never be poor'. and a dear missionary friend of ours, now at home with the Lord, often said: God's two greatest gifts to us this side of heaven are our friends and our memories.

I'm looking forward to time spent with friends in the coming year; cultivating them, encouraging and being encouraged by them and adding some new ones along the way.

The Hopes and Fears Of All The Years

2006-12-15T20:28:00.000-08:00

Are you enjoying Christmas Carols as much as I am: in the stores, your radio, around the table (here at Sue and Dana's). I love them, am bringing home 3 new CD's of them, one I purchased at the Vineyard in Atlanta, one here in AG and one as a gift. A few years ago I began to really pay attention to the words of these beautiful carols and "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem" has become a favorite in that respect. Just think about that line and how true it is "the hopes and fears of all the years are met in Thee tonight." How many hopes has he brought to pass in how many lives; how many fears has he stilled in so many lives!

And speaking of home tomorrow, Saturday, the 16th is when I fly home and the flights are crowded with paying holiday passengers plus a few hitchhikers like myself. Please pray that there'll be seats for me and I'll really get home Saturday.

Sue has had no negative symptoms from the spinal tap. Thanks for praying for her.

M.

Flu Bug Is Visiting

2006-12-13T08:53:00.000-08:00

Hi

In the joy of my previous post, I forgot to ask for prayer for Dana who brought the flu back from CO..so that the rest of the family is spared. Have a blessed day; we have a great opportunity for joy based on the choices we make today.

M.

PERSPECTIVE

2006-12-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks for praying for Sue yesterday, she's doing well even though the first 24 hrs aren't up yet we're trusting she'll be fine. Had a great doctor (the technician said we had the 'best of the best') and the whole experience was positive but made a long day for Sue and I.

An extra blessing at the hospital: we were in a 4 bed ward for outpatient surgery...quite close quarters when all four beds were in use and not as much privacy as preferred..conversations could be overheard etc. Anyway, I noticed a lady about my age (probably younger as I don't think of how old I am very often) had come in alone; a friend had dropped her off and was going shopping and then going to pick her up after her procedure. So she had no one to sit with her either before or after. Just as they were ready to wheel her out to OR I walked over and said a few words to her and ended with God Bless You while you're in there. (For those of you who know me, definitely out of my comfort zone.) She returned sometime I believe before or after Sue's LP but we had no further contact; she was being cared for post op etc. I did hear her tell the nurse how surprised she was at how well she felt.

When her friend came to pick her up she walked over to me and said good bye and with a smile said ' thank you, I feel good, it was the blessing that did it' to which I replied, 'yes, when God blesses, He does it well. That's why my title of Perspective. I was so grateful to see God lifted up in that Outpatient Room; it made me realize with all the 'stuff' I'm thinking and praying about these days HE IS!

INTEGRITY

2006-12-12T06:55:00.001-08:00

INTEGRITY

It's Tuesday and Sue and I are off to do her spinal tap (unless she wakes up with the flubug that Dana brought home when they went to CO over the weekend.) It will happen somewhere between 10a and 2p EST so prayer for both results and recovery (we've heard horror stories of migraines) would be appreciated.

We've had rain for almost 3 days; not East Coast rain yet good for what this area needs which has been so without rain for crops etc.

My column title comes from thoughts about our message here at Grace Bible Church on Sunday. In a part of the message the pastor was talking about a USA Today article at the beginning of last year that lists the words most often looked up on Encarta..or whatever thesarsus used and the word at the top of the list was integrity. What a sign of our times that integrity is not in the mainstream's vocabulary.

We talked about it going home from church and about its meaning; my take to the kids was: 'it's doing what you know is right even if you don't want to do it, even if no one will ever know you did or didn't do it.

Actually, I like best what King David said about it in the 15th Psalm: 'He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness, and speaks truth in his heart.

'Wow, the waves were spectacular at Pismo on Saturday...big storm in Alaska brought 10-15 ft waves...we (the kids) had fun just playing in the foam that day..

M.

Need For Prayer

2006-12-07T08:54:00.000-08:00

The following is what needs to be done next week. The are the things I know about. Sooooo please remember me in your prayers. (time is 3 hours difference for most of you)

Q-7th 9:15am-12:30pm A/K/N Caroling @ Convalescent Home; Dootys pickup
And return; Grandma: some cleaning and lotsa shopping.
1pm Lunch and kids pickup what Grandma cleaned around
2pm ish Michaelee will bring 400 letters to fold/stuff
3pm ish Alisha with Connie working on fence (or baby goats)
Dinner: Left Over Soup and Cornbread

6:30-9:30pm After Dishes: First 2 batches of Christmas cookie dough

F-8th 8:30-1:00 School
1:pm Lunch
2:30-5:00pm Drama practice at Kaufmans (I drive both ways)
Dinner: Pizza
7:30-11:30pm Karis and Nick to Community Center (211 Vernon Avenue
Off W. Branch near library) Call Bill Hart with any Questions Fri am or Lynn Jones, Youth Sec GBC (I drive Both ways)
Alisha and Grandma bake some of the cookies

J-9th 9:30am-12:30pm Oh shucks..nothing to do, guess we have to go to the beach!
Lunch: Grandma treats to Taco Bell
2:00-5:00 Two more batches of cookie dough and bake as many as Time allows.
Dinner: TBD
6:30-10:00pm Pick up Ben Miller (481-4806) and go to “Much Ado
About Nothing; He has our 4 tickets

S-10th 9:00-12:00am GBC – K/A Ultimate Frisbee if happening
1:00pm Nicko to Laser Tag Birthday Party; Dootys will pick up; no Birthday gift needed
Grandma and girls bake as many remaining cookies as Time allows.

4:46pm YAHOO! PICK UP MOM AND DAD…

M-11th School etc; grandma cooks turkey and knits like crazy

T-12th Sue:Sierra Vista w/Mom; 8:30am-1pm

Thanks M

Life Is Good!

2006-12-06T09:15:00.000-08:00

Good Morning from California

I'm at Dana and Sue's looking out at orange trees loaded with fruit...doesn't that sound like CA?

But first, let me tell you about Atlanta. It was so worth taking the extra two days enroute to CA just to see those four Atlanta Ostbys and then to see the Christmas Program. Logan was great as part of the supporting cast, had all the choreography down pat, knew and sang every word of all the songs; I was proud of him. And Jordan stole the show, I didn't know how much 'ham' and stage presence she had but she was great.

My trip to CA was not without incident; I had a very helpful but not too knowledgeable AA counter agent who decided I wasn't going to make my original flights so rebooked me later. I did make the original flights but had to 'renegotiate' at each of 3 stops. I think God smiled and said 'you may have used a higher priority to fly but you didn't count on the counter agent YET I did and here you are'.

I heard an interesting radio commercial this morning on the way back from my walk on the beach. It was for a GPS sytem and one of the benefits was a guy saying 'wow, that means I won't have to deal with my road rage any longer because I'll never get lost again'. Funny isn't it, how we can easily shift responsibility for our actions; it wasn't sin, it's 'because I didn't have a GPS system!'

Good news today, Sue was set for spinal tap and Dana found that with flying to CO tomorrow they needed to postpone so it will happen next Tuesday instead. Sue's packed and ready to go so maybe today will be Christmas Tree day instead.

Life is busy here, as for all of you at this time. I'm not sure how much longer I'll be in CA but thanks to family and friends and bringing a few Christmas projects with me I'm still sane and calm (most of the time) and enjoying family time away from home yet looking forward to Christmas at home too, especially with my honey.

M.

My Walk

2006-12-03T05:01:00.000-08:00

'I want you to be able always to recognize the highest and the best as you walk through life' Paul said many years ago in Philippians...I've paraphrased a bit..and I've looked at that over my long weekend realizing that sometimes it's easy to miss the highest and best because of where our focus is or where the world tells us it should be

So Friday night before heading out of NC I got to enjoy a delicious Indian Curry with Mark, Tam etc and then a sweet prayer time with my honey before he put me on a plane to Atlanta. Enroute from Dallas to Atlanta I was in the 10% of passengers who weren't Arkansaw Razorback fans enroute to the 'big game' at the GA dome. It was so much fun listening to the chants and cheers everytime a passenger got on with their logo...the great comraderie between fans who had never met before..and when our wheels touched down on the tarmac hearing them all do the whole 'hog calling cheer'.

Later, sitting in the beautiful Atrium in the Atlanta Hartsfield Airport I was thrilled as USO members escorted over 100 servicemen to their departing planes for Iraq while those of us waiting for our next destination stood and clapped for the entire 5+ minutes it took them to walk through. And speaking of walks, theirs will be far different than any of ours these next few weeks that we consider hectic but they will be considering much more.

My walk took me here to Marietta with my kids and grandkids welcoming and blessing me as we decorated the tree, watched a football game and today look forward to the play Jordan and Logan will be in.

And tomorrow it's off to CA to spend some good time with Dana, Sue and the kids. I'm sure there'll be more Chirstmas things to enjoy together and so my walk this last weekend has been blessed by getting to be with our six kids and eight grandkids.

Then last night at dinner Jordan led us through the family night for the 1st day of Advent (even though it was the 2nd) and one of the sharing questions was for each person to share when they had felt especially joyful during the past week and I remembered walking through last week and catching up with some 'close buds'...at a 4 yr old's birthday lunch..over lasagna in our 'almost Christmas decorated' home...over coffee on another friend's front porch.

While there is much more to Paul's admonition, I realize that friends...community..are some of the highest and best things that happen in my life. Jesus always took time for people; I've always been able to be counted on to take time for a project but reflecting on these walksabove shows me the higher and best is His way.

Have a great day!

M.

Thanksgiving Post

2006-11-28T23:10:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know Thanksgiving happened last week but in view of my last 24 hours this seemed a great first post. Here are a few highlights that cause gratefulness in my heart this morning...even though it's 2:14 am and I should be sleeping for the busy day today will be.

I flew to D.C. yesterday to have lunch with my sister and as we sat there enjoying a great lunch in Old Towne Alexandria she said 'do you ever stop to think about how fortunate we are to have been born in the U.S.?'

Later, as we were taking off I, who usually yearn for an aisle seat was blessed with the window, and couldn't get enough of the view of the city. In one quick moment I could see the Capital, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and I stretched and looked as long as I could to hold the view. I suspect people around me thought 'ah, she's never been to Washington before and is straining for one final look.'

Also there are some decisions I've been trying to figure out and I realized about an hour ago they're really choices I have to make and instead of being a burden I realized how blessed I am to have those choices to make...I can very directly impact how and what happens in my day.

And, saving the best for last, I had a potentially 'sticky realtional' issue facing me yesterday and I had decided how to deal with it but didn't feel very peaceful with my choice so I spent some time in specific prayer and when the time came to address it God had shown me a much better approach and the resolution was great. But what makes it so great is the fact that we have an awesome God who cares enough about intimate details of our lives like strained relationships yet is the same creator God Twila Paris sings about as follows: "who told the sun where to stand in the morning, and who taught the ocean you can only come this far, and who showed the moon where to hide every evening, whose words alone can catch a falling star"

Thanks for listening, have a great day!

Maxine is on the web

2006-11-25T07:47:00.000-08:00