Here comes 2008!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!-click me click me

Hello United States

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year from the beautiful land of Calgary, Canada!

Hope you had a wonderful Christmas and got everything you had hoped for, I did! All I wanted for Christmas this year was a Hippo, and the Holmes were caring enough to purchase one for me! lol He is so cute-I love him!

I am having a wonderful visit. The weather has been at like -10degrees C. Everyone just laughs at me, but its just sounds so cool! Christmas was so much fun and the gifts I recieved were priceless...We have gone skating on a lagoon, sat in a spa when it is was snowing, what an experience and have just had a splendid time. I will be returning to Sacramento the 1st of January =( I mean =)....

Hope and pray your holidays have been shared with friends and family making many memories that will last for a lifetime to come.

God Bless!

more pictures to come

Sincerely yours,

a.rose 2007

So this is Christmas.....

And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.~Dr. Seuss *


Christmas is quickly approaching and the shopping malls are screaming with mothers, fathers, and procrastinating gift givers. This year there has been an unusual excitement regarding the holidays, yet an odd feeling has been lingering in my mind day in and day out. I have been shopping since October for the perfect gifts for everyone on my list. The problem has been, "What is the perfect gift that will be socially acceptable yet useful, and not thrown out by Valentine's?" Though my packages are all wrapped and long since sent out, the giving feeling still exists, but what kind of gift would be meaning full. Sunday night was answer to my question. I learned I was not the only one with this unsettled feeling of useless gifts, Bro Ben Vandiver as of December 16th still had not purchased any gifts for his family, but instead was impressed by the overwhelming need in Ugaunda. There are over 6000 orphanages ran by Bishop John and they are in desperate need of supporters. It takes $150 to feed an entire orphange for one month, housing over 150 children, mothers, and widows. Bro Ben sat down with Sis Young and calculated the estimated amount that it would take to feed, clothe, educate and provide shelter for a child for one year. I was sickened by the total...$30 a YEAR per child is all it takes. $30 dollars feeds our appetites in one fine setting, it's 5 happy meals...Tears were useless, I was sickened. So this Christmas in the name of my family members, I gave them the gift of a child's life. The 2-five club is an amazing program, and our Boston Young is one of our contact persons.

This Christmas sit back and create lasting memories with family, friends, and take a moment to recognize the importance and signifance of this blessed season.

Merry Christmas and a very Happy and Blessed New Year!

Sincerely yours,

a.rose 2007

*Thanks for the thought Sarah! I love the Grinch!

Let me burn out for Thee, dear Lord,

Burn and wear out for Thee;

Don't let me rust, or my life be

A failure, my God, to Thee,

Use me, and all I have, dear Lord,

And get me so close to Thee

That I feel the throb of the great heart of God,

Until I burn out for Thee.

Bessie F. Hatcher

Sincerely yours,

a.rose 2007

The "W" in Christmas

My daddy came across this story the other day and I thought it was too cute and too true to keep to myself.

Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience. I had cut back on nonessential obligations - extensive card writing, endless baking, decorating, and even overspending. Still I found myself exhausted, unable to appreciate the precious family moments, and of course, the true meaning of Christmas. My son, Nicholas, was in kindergarten that year. It was an exciting season for a six year old. For weeks, he'd been memorizing songs for his school's Winter Pageant. I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd be working the night of the production, unwilling to miss his shining moment, I spoke with his teacher. She assured me there'd be a dress rehearsal the morning of the presentation, all parents unable to attend that evening were welcome to come at that time. Fortunately, Nicholas seemed happy with the compromise. So, the morning of the dress rehearsal, I filed in ten minutes early, found a spot on the cafeteria floor and sat down. Around the room I saw several other parents quietly scampering to their seats. As I waited, the students were led into the room. Each class, accompanied by their teacher, sat cross-legged on the floor. Then, each group, one by one, rose to perform their song. Because the public school system had long stopped referring to the holiday as "Christmas," I didn't expect anything other than fun, commercial entertainment songs of reindeer, Santa Claus, snowflakes and good cheer. So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly taken aback by its bold title. Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates, adorned in fuzzy mittens, red sweaters, and bright snowcaps upon their heads. Those in the front row- center stage - held up large letters, one by one, to spell out the title of the song.
As the class would sing "C is for hristmas," a child would hold up the letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and on and on, until each child holding up his portion had presented the complete message, "Christmas Love." The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her; a small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down - totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W". The audience of 1st through 6th graders snickered at this little one's mistake. But she had no idea they were laughing at her, so she stood tall, proudly holding her "W". Although many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it together.
A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen. In that instant, we understood the reason we were there, why we celebrated the holiday in the first place, why even in the chaos, there was a purpose for our festivities. For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear: "C H R I S T W A S L O V E" And, I truly believe, He still is.

Amazed in His presence....humbled by His love.
Sincerely yours,
a.rose 2007

Thanksgiving Day Pics

Uncle Jeff, the good ole turkey, and Daddy

Poor Dad, he's tired....

Thank you Lord for our link-n-log mansion!

The boys were a little "tied" up outside...lol

Joey and Tamsen jump roping in the living room for Jesus!

The ride of my life...oh wow!

Daniel thinks he's the hottest guitar player in Sacto...too bad he doesn't know how to play!

Woo...Tammi after a long night of shopping!

Around 12:30am, after our Thanksgiving meal , Bubbles, Caren, Tamsen, Ayla and myself packed up my car with snacks, gas, and blankets and headed to Gilroy, which is about 2 1/2 hours away. From 3:33am to 8:30am we shopped till we literally dropped. The mall had opend at 12am with some great deals, we couldn't resist! After returning home at 11a we crashed. It was so crazy, but soo much fun!

Miss Santa

Lil Hairy Cutie! These hats were great-considering how cold it was outside at 5a!

A Partridge in a Pear Tree?

There is one Christmas Carol that has always baffled me. What in the world do leaping lords, French hens, swimming swans, and especially the partridge who won't come out of the pear tree have to do with Christmas?

Today I found out, thanks to the Internet. From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly.

Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics. It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church. Each element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality, which the children & gt; could remember.

The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.

Two turtledoves were the Old and New Testaments.

Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.

The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.

The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.

The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.

Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit: Prophesy Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.

The eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.

Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindn ess, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.

The ten lords a-leaping were the Ten Commandments.

The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.

The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.

So there is your history for today.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Gobble, Gobble- its turkey day!

Autumn has arrived...for Real!

The leaves have changed to vivid colors yellow, red, and orange and trees are reluctantly letting go of more as each day passes. The crunch of leaves and the smell of spiced cider, pumkin pie and turkey can be identified as a shiver runs down your spine. California has welcomed fall with its rainy days and chilly evenings, with open arms. Thanksgiving is only 2 days away and my taste buds can hardly wait for my daddy's ham, Ayla's mashed potatoes, Tamsen's cookies, and my momma's yams! Let's not forget Angel's crash course Xbox football she recieves from her brothers each year. (I still haven't gotten the hang of it) But in the midst of the aroma and hustle of the holiday remember just why we are celebrating.
It's that time of year when I get all sentimental and emotional just because it almost Christmas. But this year is different, so much has changed for me this year and my future will never be the same. No longer am I thankful just because I have stuff, I am truly thankful beyond words.

This year I took a huge leap into adulthood and moved from my parents home. No longer am I reluctantly going to bed as my siblings carry on in the living room, I am missing family prayer nights and fighting over laundy day with momma, fussing over how sissy borrowed my favorite shirt without asking, how frustrating it is to pick up brothers boxers they left in the bathroom again, or the joy of kissing daddy on my way out the door. This Thanksgiving I will spend with my family as always, but I will greet the day with a truly thankful heart. Beyond the everyday thankfulness, but with a sincere appreciation for life, family, love, and friends. So often we take for granted simple things in life. The thought I could have lost my brother last month halted me in my new routine with the thought, "Life is short and requires your attention."
I am truly thankful for a God who is forever faithful and so true. His love amazes me each and everyday. Thank you for blessing me beyond what I could ever ask or think.

Oh, yes and thank you Jesus for deep fried cajun turkey, Thanksgiving just wouldn't be the same. =)

Once again my God is a miracle working God! Pastors daughter from Redding, Ca became extremely ill two weeks ago, and through a series of drs and testing found her liver to be failing. Prayers were uplifted and a miracle was delivered. Bethani Roam (Bishop) received a donor liver Monday and is recovering wonderfully. Please take a moment to visit her blog and please continue to keep both this family and the family who has lost their loved one in your prayers.

Click here to read more about Bethani's Miracle

Memories Never Fade

Yesterday a friend of mine returned a folder I had left at her home forever ago. From it she retrieved a folded piece of paper, and proceded to read the contents. It was a simple poem I had written a few years earlier and had forgotten about, but how true these words are even today.

Sweet smells of autumn
Beauty in the newness of spring
Summer brings new adventures
And silver mountains of snow cover winter
Seasons of change come and go
Blooming love, smiles, and tears
But there is a time when they too must go
Different colors and different shades
But one thing I have found
Sweet precious memories never fade

a.rose 2005

A cry from the Heart....

Love is an intense feeling of affection related to a sense of strong loyalty or profound oneness.
Websters describes love as "A strong positive emotion of regard and affection; having a great affection or liking for something or someone."

Today I analyzed my present emotion and state of mind and found myself placing anthropomorphic qualities to God. In this I found I was able to understand and relate to Him in a whole new way.
Jesus this is my deepest desire and prayer today and alway:

The more I seek you
The more I find you
The more I find you
The more I love you
I want to sit at your feet
Drink from the cup in your hand
Lie back against you and breathe
Feel your heartbeat
This love is so deep
It’s more than I can stand
I melt in your peace
It’s overwhelming
You are Everything!

I love you more than words can express,
in a way my heart can not comprehend,
in a realm I seek to exist eternally!

Sincerely,
a.rose 2007

To Know Him is to Love Him

I was in for a bumpy ride as the year 2004 opened its doors, for this was a year of drastic change in my life. As a young child growing up in a separated home, I knew God had a plan and purpose for my life, a ministry and a deeper calling, but what that plan was I had no idea and still do not know completely. I was an early graduate of 2004 and was blessed with the opportunity to visit Jackson College of Ministries. There God touched me in a way I have never felt before; speaking into me words of strength in a voice so powerful it shook my being. I thought this is where I need to be, but in August of that same year as I was preparing to leave for Mississippi, my pastor felt led to ask me if I would be interested in being apart of Apostolic Youth Corps, AYC, and help a young home missions church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I excitedly agreed and prepared for Salt Lake City were I would be catapulted into a 10 hour daily Home Missions 101 crash course. There I would be assisting in the outreach portion of General Conference and from there I would be deployed to Pittsburgh for that life changing experience not even my pastor could have ever truly prepared me for.

Before leaving my pastors wife pulled me aside and instructed me in wisdom, warning me to be wary of simple things that would contradict my upbringing, giving me her contact information and blessing me with her prayers I arrived on the east coast ready to win the world. Loneliness soon set in a few weeks after my arrival and that was where my true challenge began. So many thoughts began to flood through my mind; it was as if I became the victim on the devils playing field. I was heavily involved in everything from painting, to outreach, secretarial work, children’s church, drama, you name it, I was in shoulder deep; but I was sinking. After many messages and failed attempts to reach my pastors wife, I sunk deeper into the grasps of loneliness. All I could hear were her words, " Call me if you need me, I will be there and will be praying for you. I want to hear from you and please, please call." Precious words that never came true were the thoughts the devil filled my mind with day and night.

Disappointment ate at me, and it seemed as if no one was there, no friends, no family and no covering of ministry. My convictions were tested and my world spun out of control, not only was my spiritual world rocked, but my health began to suffer as Lupus began to claim my body. I tried to keep the smile and hold on to what I knew was right, but days turned into gloomy nights. I would cling to my Bible and lie on the floor of my room in pain and cry as my roommate watched endless hours of television. But in the puddle of my tears laid a strength I never knew existed. I started to feel less and less sorry for myself and began to embrace the physical loneliness and let God carry me to a place in Him that had once been hidden. Psalm 91 speaks of a secret place, a place beyond the ordinary, a place of deep meditation and a relationship with the Almighty, far more precious than this world has ever felt. My Bible, a gift from my pastor’s wife, became my strength, and that secret place with God became my comfort. Each night without my friends, family or ministry I would find Him. He became my everything! I found life in Him (Proverbs 21:21), He was my strong tower (Proverbs 18:10) and as I set my affections on Him and things above (Colossians 3) I found I was complete in Him (Colossians 2:10).

It was not until I returned home and my pastor’s wife called me to her home that I realized this all was meant for a monument in my life. She embraced me and told me she had been praying for me, received every letter and every phone call, and was so proud of me. It hit me then; she had taught me the most important lesson in a Christian’s life. The references in Deuteronomy 31:6 and 8 became so precious and so real to me in that moment, He never left me nor forsook me. He was closer than a brother as promised in Proverbs 18:24. I had to come to a place where I had to find Him on my own, not just because mommy and daddy loved him, not because my pastor knew Him, but because my existence and future relied on knowing Him for myself. James 2:19 confirmed. It is much like the ten virgins, five wise and five foolish spoken of in Matthew 25. The wise knew the bride groom, talked with him, felt his love, experienced his faithfulness, but the foolish only knew of him. They never had the opportunity to lavish in his fullness, ridding them of the eagerness and excitement the others felt. We can not be as the foolish; we have to be ready, excited and continually seeking for His coming. He seeks a spotless and whole bride, rid of bitterness and confusion. Many nights I have let my mind drift back to those amazing evenings, just me and Jesus, the realness of His love and the words of promise. He strengthened me, and in the doctors amazement He healed me completely. I plead with you; get to know him for yourself, Trust Him. I can not express in words how important it is to find Him for you, experience all the knowing Him can bring.

Jesus, You are my Peace...My Everything

"Worry is an outward expression displaying

a lack of an inward, complete Trust in HIM!" a.rose2007

Sincerely,
a.rose 2007

When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin'." I'm whispering " I was lost, Now I'm found and forgiven.

"When I say... "I am a Christian" I don't speak of this with pride. I'm confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not trying to be strong. I'm professing that I'm weak And need His strength to carry on.

When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not bragging of success. I'm admitting I have failed And need God to clean my mess.

When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not claiming to be perfect, My flaws are far too visible But, God believes I am worth it.

When I say... "I am a Christian" I still feel the sting of pain. I have my share of heartaches So I call upon His name.

When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not holier than thou, I'm just a simple sinner Who received God's good grace,...somehow!

Sincerely,
a.rose

Update on Adam King-He's HOME!

Adam King can personally testify to you today of God's miraculous power - and His mercy. As many of you have heard, Adam King, was involved in a serious car accident early Monday morning. That's when the miracle began! On his way to work at the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort (as a caddy), Adam was in the middle of a conversation with Karissa Horton when he lost control of his vehicle. Karissa figured they lost signal, since this was the part of the highway that they usually have very bad signal on. (Remember that fact)Adam meanwhile went off the road some 20+ feet into a ravine below that was heavily forested, meaning it was almost impossible to know someone had gone off the road. Not a person or witness saw him. Finally regaining consciousness Adam picked up his phone and called Karissa to let her know he was in an accident. Not very coherent, it was just enough information to notify his parents and 911. Both emergency teams and his parents were searching for Adam. It wasn't the Search and Rescue that found him though...it was his mother. Telling her husband where to pull over on the side of the road because it "felt right", as she relayed to me, they peered over a cliff to see the old blue pickup truck. Shouting his name, Adam honked his horn in return to acknowledge it was him.Despite nasty lacerations all over his body, a punctured lung (which caused his breathing to be very shallow), and a close-to-death body, Adam was eventually stabilized and as the CAT scans relayed (while MANY of you were praying) Adam does not have a single broken bone in his body. Praise be to God! Even more amazing is that he doesn't have ANY head trauma. Look at the pictures and see the video and then tell me that God did not have his hand of protection over a should've-been tragic accident. Thanks to many of you who have prayed and called to express your concerns. It was appreciated by the family.His accident was reported on the news.

You can see the news covering at http://www.kcby.com/news/local/10321027.html.

After seeing the picture of the truck, it is only the hand of God that he is alive.

Original article posted on C&C Blog

ABW.........

I recieved the sweetest email yesterday and just had to share...Thank you Papa English for making me feel so incredibly special! Can't wait to see you soon! Miss you and love you and Nana English so much!

Hey, Angelica;

Here are the headlines y’all have been waiting to read:

Today is the culmination of the ABW preparations!
By Gary English
San Antonio, Texas

It’s finally here…….the day everyone has been waiting for. The finale of the Angelica Birth Week celebrations. It’s like Christmas; everyone has been preparing for the big day in there own way, and now the big day is here; Angelica’s actual 22 nd birthday. Here in San Antonio, Texas the alarm was set for 4:00 AM, but this reporter was so excited that the alarm was not needed. It was 3:24 AM when the covers were thrown back, the coffee poured, and the computer humming. This reporter wanted to be the first to wish Angelica a very Happy Birthday!

Why all the excitement over a birthday?
For you who have never known the charming and beautiful Angelica Lombardo you are missing it! She is not only beautiful physically, but also personality wise and spiritually. This reporter has known her since she has been a tiny girl, and has watched her grow into a beautiful young woman.
She is single as of last reports, and any young man who thinks he might be worthy of her should definitely go to The Rock Church in Elk Grove, California and try his luck. Of course, he would have to be approved by her Bishop, her Pastor, her Father, and this reporter before he got the OK to ask for her hand.

It’s time for this reporter to sign off, but it will not be long until this reporter will see her in person in November.

One final word: God bless and keep you, Angelica.

The English family of San Antonio loves you.
you.

OCTOBER HAS ARRIVED....

And it's Birthday time around here folks....

Jennifer Helms

Vivien Christ

Stephanie Crosser

Michele Scott-Soon to be Mrs. Pontias!!!!

Angelica Lombardo-ME!!

Christopher Lombardo

Ryan Crosser

Viola Brown

Elizabeth Sienna

My buddy-Michael Scobey

Happy Birthday to all! May there be many blessings to come!

If I have missed anyone Please forgive me! I will more than likely be updating this throughout the next week! =)

Feeling a little under the weather? Get a fire in your bones and let the Holy Ghost blow in you and through you...WIND AND FIRE- An insirational and a must read!

A CAMEL comes to The Rock Church!!!

YES! You have read correctly, we had over 15 first time visitors Sunday morning including a camel! A man in our church, who lives literly 1 minute away, has been inviting his neighbor to church. She finally agreed to attend as long as her 8 foot tall camel could come as well! She walked her camel to church, and thankfully left it outside tied to a fire hydrant. It was not happy let me tell you! But I'm thankful she came!!

Let EVERYTHING that has breathe praise the LORD!

Sincerely,

a.rose

An inspiring post!

This tree has been standing here growing bigger and stronger for approximately 46 years and within a few short hours it was totally gone. All that is left is a few stumps that will be burned for firewood and some mulch which can be used for some good in a garden. This got me to thinking about Reputation. We can work all of our life to build a good reputation,, one of character, and in a moment of temptation or anger or whatever, it can be stripped away and we are left with just a few stumps and some mulch. We are ground down to nothing! Guard your reputation. It is worth everything! You worked too hard and long to let it be stripped away from you in a moment. Your reputations defines who you are. It dictates where you are going and where you will end up! It is the very essence of 'you"!...... You do not want to miss the rest of this post, it is a GREAT read!

Autumn has arrived...

Well, not officially until the 23rd, but close enough! Bring on the sweaters, boots, scarves, and yes, the umbrellas!

It's raining, it pouring

The old man is snoring

Went to bed and bumped his head

And couldn't get up in the morning

Never have gotten the ending of this little tune, but its true for today! I awoke at 5:45a to find the sky a deep dark void. An unusually darkeness for the hour, but the mystery soon revealed itself, It was raining! The leaves are turning, school bells have wistled the return of their fans, the temperature is dropping, and smiles are arising as the thought of a new season approaches.

Life in the spiritual realm has new seasons as well. We love the summers' heat waves, but long for the coolness of evening before the fire that winter brings. The summer days are drifing away, leaving us with lessons learned, and battles fought. The rains of autumn wash away the dried tears of heated pain, and refresh and renew our thirsting spirits! A new season brings change, and change brings new adventure. God knew what He was doing when He created the seasons both in the physical and the spiritual! Don't think of the battles still to fight, put a smile on your face and greet this new season with JOY! You never know what blessings HE has in store for you!

Sincerely,

a.rose

ITALIAN KIDS vs. American kids

• 
  American kids: Move out when they're 18 with the full support of their parents.
• Italian kids:Move out when they're 28, having saved enough money for a house, and are two weeks away from getting married....unless there's room in the basement for the newlyweds.
• American kids:When their Mom visits them, she brings a Bundt cake, and you sip coffee and chat.
• Italian kids: When their Mom visits them, she brings 3 days worth of food, begins to tidy up, dust, do the laundry, and rearrange the furniture.
• American kids: Their dads always call before they come over to visit them, and it's usually only on special occasions.
• Italian kids: Are not at all fazed when their dads show up, unannounced, on a Saturday morning at 8:00, and starts pruning the fruit trees. If there are no fruit trees, he'll plant some.
• American kids: Always pay retail, and look in the Yellow Pages when they need to have something done.
• Italian kids: Call their dad or uncle, and ask for another dad's or uncle's phone number to get it done...cash deal. Know what I mean?? This is soooo true!
• American kids: Will come over for cake and coffee, and get only cake and coffee. No more.
• Italian kids: Will come over for cake and coffee, and get antipasto, wine, a pasta dish, a choice of two meats, salad, bread , a cannoli, fruit, and espresso.
• American kids: Will greet you with "Hello" or "Hi".
• Italian kids: Will give you a big hug, a kiss on your cheek, and a pat on your back.
• American kids: Call your parents Mr. and Mrs .
• Italian kids: Call your parents Mom and Dad. And your grandparents Grandpa and Grandma. =0)
• American kids: Have never seen you cry.
• Italian kids: Cry with you.
• American kids:Borrow your stuff for a few days and then return it.
• Italian kids: Keep your stuff so long, they forget it's yours.
• American kids:Will eat at your dinner table and leave.
• Italian kids: Will spend hours there, talking, laughing, and just being together.
• American kids: Know few things about you.
• Italian kids:Could write a book with direct quotes from you.
• American kids: Eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches on soft mushy white bread.
• Italian kids: Eat Genoa Salami and Provolone sandwiches on crusty Italian bread.
• American kids: Will leave you behind if that's what the crowd is doing.
• Italian kids:Will stop and lecture the whole crowd who left you behind.
• American kids: Are for a while.
• Italian kids:Are for life.
• American kids: Like Rod Stewart, and Steve Tyrell.
• Italian kids:Love Tony Bennett, Guy Lombardo and Frank Sinatra!
• American kids: Think that being Italian is cool.
• Italian kids:Know that being Italian is cool!

I LOVE being Italian!

Sincerely,

a.rose

9-11 We Remember

Today, Tuesday September 11t, marks the 6th anniversary of the 09/11/01 attacks. Though many may have carried on today with no care, I along with many have been taken back to that morning that changed our lives forever. It felt as if my innocence had been stripped away , my freedom questioned, my future threatened , and my present grasped in the clutches of fear. But I am thankful for a God who sees all and knows all. For in 2 Cor. 10:4-5 it says, "I do not fight with merely human weapons. No, the weapons with which I war are not weapons of mere flesh and blood, but, in the strength of the Lord, they are mighty enough to raze all strongholds of our foes. I can batter down bulwarks of human reason; I can scale every crag-fortress that towers up bidding defiance to the true knowledge of God. I can make each rebel purpose my prisoner of war and bow it into submission to Messiah." In HIM, do I put my trust.....9-11.....I REMEMBER!
God Bless America!

http://mission242blog.blogspot.com/

"There She Stands"
A tribute to 9-11 victims

Sincerely,
a.rose

My New House!

Okay, many have been asking about my new house-room....well here they are, I just so happened to have my dad's camera on Saturday so I ran home and took a couple of pics. My first intent was to decorate using different buildings and architecture, but the eiffel tower became an easy find!My roommate and I made the throw pillows at like 2 in the morning on Friday! We had a blast!
I fell in love with the vase!

My computer/sitting room, the comp is to the right.

Oh yes, and this is our Lucy, our manakin that greets us at the door, its kind of fuzzy, but she scares everyone when they open the door. It's Great! =)

Sincerely,
a. rose

Happy Birthday Vince!

Saturday, September 8th my little buddy, Vincent Nataniel turned 13 years old! Vince, I love you and am so proud of you! I am so blessed to have you as my little bro. I couldn't have chosen a better young man to pick on me! =)

Derrell and Vince digging into that free sunday!

Little Weston enjoying his ice creamAunt Lupe and Jordan

Sincerely,
a. rose

LABOR DAY!!! Patience day! Roll eyes

What a weekend!! 22 years ago I was supposed to be born, but no those drs decided to make me wait, their reasoning, " She is too little, she'll have to wait"! Well, once again I have learned that valuable lesson of waiting. Patience is a virtue the Bible does say. I had some fabulous plans to go to the mall with Courtney, I cooked dinner, and waited, and waited and waited. At around 8 she finally showed up and the fun began, 2 hours late, but it began. The evening carried on, feeding turtles, rabbits, dogs, a cat, doves, and watering plants in the dark in 36% humidity, and 90 degrees! That was quite an experience! Around 10p we got the idea to drive to Auburn about 45 min away to meet up with my family who had hooked up our trailer and camped out in this fabulous campground with a fishing lake, a boating area, and even a built in pool! After a "quick" packing experience for overnight, which consisted of pjs and a swim shirt, and a Starbucks run we made it on the road at 12a! Did I mention that it was a quick pack, just making sure! We were up till 2, or at least I was, 10 people crammed in a travel trailer! It was great! We crawled out of bed around 10 ish and the fun began. That was a complete overstatement! The lake became a pond, the fish shriveled up to the size of a dollar tree sardine, the boating area disappeared, along with my favorite flip flop! =( sob sob....Or shall I say the prior campground never existed in its glory. Several bruises, at least 5 splinters and half a million scrapes later, I made it through the afternoon with a smile on my face, well kind of half a smile. Saturday evening a few of us celebrated Maria's 23rd Birthday with a bicycle progression dinner! Now that was fun, despite the heat. Sunday was church, AWESOME! I had only 20 students in class, my average is anywhere between 45-50, so the Lord gave me a break on my spending for snack, Thank you Jesus! Though out of about 1100 there was only a good 300, we still had church. Monday was lazy day! 103 degrees and in my pj's till 4pm! What a day! I was able to relax, sleep in and even sew a bit. My family once again decided to hit the water and try out for some more fish! I was not in the mood for fishing another day, and even the boat didn't sound like much fun! I did not need another pentecostal farmer burn. So my sister, my roommate Tammi, and I loaded up and headed to Thrift Town. Woo Hoo! It was waiting for us, 50% off all clothing! Let's just say I have my winters wardrobe for 2007!
All in all I learned alot this weekend! Your best times are often made out of your worst experiences turned positive! Let me clarify, sometimes we look at a situation and think, "You have got to be crazy, I am going to be so bored!" or "Why me?" but if you simple apply a positive twist the humid heat of September and trickling 5 foot wide stream begins to look and feel more and more like The Underground Railroad(thanks Derrell, I love you), adventure, excitement, and the best time of your life! Surrounded by some great deals! $$ Though I was bored silly, surrounded by at least a dozen or more people, I found that my attitude was making my day. I no longer became lost in the crowd, but became the crowd and found a fashion show, a laugh, a smile and fond memories that will last me at least a million Labor days to come! Waiting wasn't so bad, I got a few surprises out of it! ;) Crocs!! Thanks mum! I guess the whole phrase, "RUN with patience" actual makes sense!

Father why?..For my Glory!

A tender, tearful mother approached the president and asked,
“Why did my son have to die in Iraq?”

Another tearful mother approached the president and asked,
“Why did my son have to die in Saudi Arabia?”

Again another tearful mother approached the president and asked,
“Why did my son have to die in Kuwait?”

And another, “Why did my son have to die in Vietnam?”

And another, “Why did my son have to die in Korea?”

Still another came, “Why did my son have to die in Iwo Jima?”

And yet another, “Why did my son have to die on a battlefield on a field in France?”

Then from the distance a long, long ago mother stepped forward tilted her head heaven bound and asked, “Heavenly Father, why did my son have to die on a wooded cross, ashamed and bloody outside of Jerusalem?”

The reply was directed to all, “ So that others may have Life and dwell in Peace, Happiness, and Freedom!”

Thank you Uncle Kevin, Uncle Jay, Joel, Francis and to all of the other incredible soldiers who are currently in Iraq or have recently returned; serving in honor of those who have fallen, for the freedom of the living and for the unborn future.

I love you dearly!

She did it!!

Last night was one of the most incredible nights in the Christian walk of my dearest friend Alex Rowell! After almost a year has expired from the date Alex recieved the Holy Ghost, she was baptized! It was such a step for her, and I am extremely proud! We celebrated at Mimi's! Look at that radiant GRIN!

Happy Birthday....

To the most incredible little Sister, who's actually quite taller than me, in the world! August 24th, 1989 was a year of change for me. I was nearing 4 years of age and as the only child, I was used to being the center of attention, now I've got a side kick. lol..... Ayla changed my life forever, and I am so BLESSED to have had her by my side!

Happy 18th Birthday Ayla! I love you and am so thankful God gave me such a wonderful shoulder to lean upon!

Sisters FOREVER!

CLASSIFIEDS....Full Time Position-Life Changing Opportunity!

Its a little long, but this is so true! Thank you Daddy, Mum, Dad and Marm for taking the position! I wouldn't be who I am without your support and most of all your LOVE! I appreciate your dedication and faithfulness. Your reward is out of this world, you'll just have to ask the Big Man upstairs for the cash out, he has everything taken care of for me. ;)
I love you all with all my heart, you are awesome!....by the way can I borrow $20?

POSITION : Mom, Mommy, Mama, MaDad, Daddy, Dada, Pa, Pop

JOB DESCRIPTION :

1. Long term, team players needed, for challenging permanent work in an, Oftenchaotic environment.
2. Candidates must possess excellent communication and organizational skillsand be willing to work variable hours, which will include evenings andweekends and frequent 24 hour shifts on call.
3. Some overnight travel required, including trips to primitive camping siteson rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities! Travel expenses not reimbursed.
4. Extensive courier duties also required.

RESPONSIBILITIES : The rest of your life.

1. Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily, until someone needs $5.
2. Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly.
3. Also, must possess the physical stamina of a pack mule and be able to gofrom zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat in case, this time, the screamsfrom the backyard are not someone just crying wolf.
4. Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges, such as smallgadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets and stuck zippers.
5. Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and coordinate production ofmultiple homework projects.
6. Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings for clients of allages and mental outlooks.
7. Must be willing to be indispensable one minute, and embarrassment the next.
8. Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices.
9. Must always hope for the best, but be prepared for the worst.
10. Must assume final, complete accountability for the quality of the endproduct.
11. Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and janitorial workthroughout the facility.

POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION : None.

1. Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills, so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE : None required unfortunately.

1. On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.

WAGES AND COMPENSATION :Get this! You pay us!

1. Offering frequent raises and bonuses.
2. A balloon payment is due when we turn 18, because of the assumption that college will help them become financially independent.
3. When you die, you give us whatever is left.The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.

BENEFITS :

1. While no health or dental insurance, no pension, no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and no stock options are offered;this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth and free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right.

Just a few pics from my trip to CANADA!

Though I purchased 3 cameras, and took every single shot I could, I will not bore you with them all. Especially since the majority of the pictures are of the most adorable little girl named Lexi Holmes! =) I will be adding some more pictures soon, these are just a few I was able to take with my phone.

My...little plane...

Me and Ester....

Angie and John....

Lisa and Me...

Angie and Me....Happy Graduation Butterfly!

Below is a picture of Kenny and John bouncing me on the trampoline. My heart nearly came out of my chest, I was so high! But it was exciting! Thanks Tina for such an awesome pic!

Going to another level...

"Sometimes trust takes you places and to heights you never dreamed you'd soar. The key is allowing the right people to help you reach those altitudes; and understanding sometimes you just can't do it on your own!"

Sincerely,
a.rose 2007

Shall your day begin with....

"Good lord, its Morning"

or

Good Morning LORD!

An interesting phrase I found on a friends blog.

On the Road again...

Keep me in your prayers... I am out of town once again this weekend! =) My sister Tamsen, her friend Katie and I are taking a road trip to Klamath Falls, Oregon! We also are going to be ministering in drama, so please pray both God's hand of protection and anointing!

Check out http://www.holyghostdrama.com for some Awesome updates!
Jonathan Moore's "Freedom Song"- Already a favorite on God Tube!!

Introducing....

Moosie! Approx 5 year old German, Shephard, Huskie mixed beauty a beloved member of our family! We found out for the first time in over a year that this pooch was actually white! He is a terror to brush and clean and dislikes water with a passion, but my sister, Ayla, managed to wrestle him into our tub and give him a good rub down. Oh, he smelled so good, and looked so cute I just had to take a picture with him. He shed white all over me, so we ended up matching, but I love him so much!

Thoughts of the heart...

Oh emotion
You seek to arise
You strive to conquer
The struggle of victory rages
Night and day you prey on my thoughts
Corrupting my dreams and weakening my structure
Wearing heavily upon my heart

Oh emotion
Your strength distracts, but your strategy has flaws
For I know a power beyond your desire
One of peace, of which I trust
My life never faltering from His plan
Though emotion you seek your will
I while heartedly give you to Him
For I know the best is to come
To those whom wait on Him
Who love Him as their Everything



Sincerely,
a.rose 2007

We will always remember...

How do you tell the world about a man as amazing and selfless as the late Michael English Esq. Two years ago Mike was tragically taken from this world we live in to join his creator. Mike was a man of character, dignity, honor, commitment, and genuine heart! Everything he did and said was with complete confidence, at least to the onlooker. He taught this next generation to honor the man of God at all costs and to serve God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength. We live to have fun and uplift others. You always knew Uncle Mike loved you by the measure of teasing he poured out upon you, and believe me I had my fill! Mike you will forever be a key component in both my spiritual and physical upbringing. I love you dearly and miss you terribly!

Take a moment to visit Mike's blog. http://www.michaelenglish.homestead.com/

Feelin hot, Hot, HOT!

Calgary, Alberta Canada
87 C 51 F

Sacrament, California USA
104 C 66 F

I am not yet used to this! A week and a half in Calgary has ruined me! =0)

Can someone say VACATION!

Well... I am presently in Calgary, Alberta, Canada where the weather is simply lovely! No triple digits, light showers and beautiful sunshine! Nothing too absolutely exciting, just busy getting ready for the scheduled graduation to be held this coming Wednesday evening, and the banquet to follow on Friday. Looking forward to an eventful week to come!