LEAH'S LOGIC

Pain FREE?

2011-07-25T10:32:00.001-05:00

Jun 28th I got up really early, did all my prep work and headed out the door with my hubby to the hospital. I was scared but calm and a bit in a daze just taking one second at a time. I remember the little cubical they gave us and trying to chit chat with my hubby doing everything I could to avoid anything surgery related. They hooked me up with the IV stuff and started to wheel me out. All I remember is getting to the nurses station which was pretty much right across from my little cubical. I guess that's when I zoned out but apparently my husband said I started getting weepy when I got closer to the surgery area. The nurse said oh, don't cry we'll take good care of you. My hubby Jan said leaving was the hardest thing he's had to ever do in his life.

Minutes later or what I thought was minutes later that was actually hours later, I woke up. First thought? I remember thinking OK, I'm in pain. Wait this isn't so bad. Hmmmm, I can handle this. It was like really, really bad but bearable cramps. WAIT, cramps? Ok, that's weird I just had everything removed and I'm laying here with feelings of cramps? I found humor in that and also found peace in my pain. It wasn't unbearable and my fears of this moment were gone. Yes, I was under a lot of drugs and I welcome them. I have no idea just how much pain I was really in because of the wonderful, I love you pain killer they gave me right into my veins. They wheeled me to my room were I might have dozed off from time to time but pretty much stayed awake all day talking to my hubby and a friend. I felt pretty good.

Day two I was still on the IV of drugs but was bound and determined to walk on this day. They wouldn't let me on the first day because I was all hooked up to a few things so I would stay in bed but today they were removing some of those things so I could walk. I was told by my doctor, my hubby and nurses that the best thing you can do in the hospital is walk. So, I was ready. No matter how much pain I was walking the floor. First time getting out of my bed was a hoot. They had to show me how to roll myself out and with an IV and that little cart of stuff you have to take with you everywhere that wasn't fun. The pain however reminded me of just what I had been through. It was a consistent reminder of what I could and couldn't do.

I have been told that I can be very convincing. I had made up my mind that I was getting off all the tubes, IV, etc on Thursday. I was preparing my case for when the doctors arrived around 8:00 am. And would you believe it, I talked the doctors into removing everything. I mean everything. They even removed my IV thing in my hand. My one doctor the oncologist was so impress with my walking and stuff that he was all in, my other surgeon who put the colon back together, not so much but he reluctantly went with it. That would come back to haunt me later in the day. I was in pain but I wanted to be in pain. I didn't expect to have surgery and not have pain. I wanted to heal and the pain meds slow that process down. My walking was getting better and I now wanted to go home. All day I was doing great! I was told if you throw up 1 time you are back on everything. Then a nurse came in and gave me this big ole horse pill. I took it but didn't ask what it was. Several hours later, it all came back up. She came back and this time she gave me 2 of those big ole horse pills. This time I asked, what is this and she said just a couple of pain meds - VICODINE. I didn't say anything and took them. Later, several hours later that too came back up. My skeptical doctor got a phone call and then the fun began. Tube her! The nurse came in and said the doctor has requested we put a tube down to your stomach. Earlier in the day my oncologist doctor told me I was an awesome patient, I followed the rules, I didn't just lay in bed and I was easy to take care of. That ended the moment I heard tube! I'll be honest, I didn't want the tube, I felt like it wasn't necessary and the only one nurse I really didn't care for seemed to be really looking forward to doing this thing. I said nope! Not going to happen. You guys aren't tubing me. They left and then came back and said the doctor said if you don't do this you need to sign a form that you are are not going to follow his request. Long story is I gave in. Short story is they messed up. I wasn't sick because I couldn't hold anything down. There was nothing wrong with my stomach or colon. I was sick because they were giving me Vicodine on an empty stomach. I hadn't eaten since Sunday and now that the IV was out they started me on pills like Vicodine and my stomach couldn't handle that. It took me awhile to connect the dots but when I did I started on my next plot of getting this thing removed. That was the day I said NO MORE PAIN MEDS! Done, I'm not taking them, I don't need them and it's crazy you keep bringing them to me. I'm done with the pain meds put that in my chart. They did and from that day on I was pain med free. Not pain free but med free.

So what is my point here? I didn't want to be completely out of pain. The pain was something that told me where I had been, how I needed to be careful, what I needed to do to get better. As long as I was out of pain, I was going to be less motivated to do what I knew I needed to do to get better and to go home. I never expected to be pain free. The pain I was in wasn't really bad unbearable pain so why take something for it? I didn't want to rely on stupid meds that people got addicted to. I wanted to allow the pain to be a reminder of what was ahead, what my goals were, what I could have and that was healing. The pain was a reminder that the more I worked the closer I was to healing. The day they finally said I could go home, I asked them not to write me out a prescription for any kind of pain meds. Yet, when I was home going over all my stuff they gave me a prescription for 40 Vicodine. That was so unnecessary. I never filled it, never needed it or wanted it. It did open my eyes to the responsibility both hospital and doctors have to many addictions we have in this country.

What are you doing to cover your pain? What do you have in your life that you use to cover up your pain? It could be anything, it doesn't have to be something bad even. But, it's something that you have put in the way of God's healing power over your life. Something that is slowing down your healing process because you are hanging on to the pain meds of choice in your life. God doesn't want us in pain all our lives! Not dealing with it though prolongs the pain, slows down the growing process we could learn from and keeps us from healing. My challenge is to find the pain you have been covering up, deal with it by facing it, hand it over to God and start to move forward and remove that thing you use to cover it up. That's when you will find healing, peace and the road to a joyous life.

Leah Martensen - Carcinoid Cancer Survivor?

2011-07-24T12:51:00.004-05:00

Yes, I'm Leah Martensen singer/songwriter/Christian speaker and now a cancer survivor! That's still soaking in with me and I'm just not sure I've got the whole picture of what that is going to really look like but I am getting to the point of coming to grips with the new me.

June 28th I was set to have a surgery to remove this huge diseased uterus I had. I had fibroid tumors that I have known about for many, many years. We were pretty sure they were benign. I knew more about them than my new doctors. I had been carrying this diseased uterus for over 10 years. I didn't want any kind of surgery and put everything off. I was told when you get passed a certain time in your life they kind of shrink because they are no longer being feed through your blood stream. Someone however forgot to inform me that there is a time in your life they also can double or triple in size before getting to the dying side and if that happens they are never going to shrink enough to keep the uterus. Thanks to that doctor who left that out. Timing is everything! I'm convinced that taking this thing out at this time was just the right God time.

June 28th came and the surgery went off as planned with a GREAT picture to boot. I love that doctors now take pictures to show you just what they took out. But upon finishing, my new physician/oncologist took a look around and sure enough right where the small, large intestines and colon all come together there was a tumor. This one however wasn't benign and needed another physician to get the job done. Apparently, my colon was just about ready to obstruct and I didn't have a clue. Thank God for his timing! The other miracle to all this was, I did all my prep work to the tee. Yes, the day before I did all the bowel work. Had I not well I would have had to go home with a bag to my side and another surgery later. If I would had woken up to that I would have freaked. God knew that and God protected me. His timing is always perfect! There were so many things that lead to this surgery happening when it did. I don't have a lot of inspirational thoughts here yet. I just wanted to write my first Cancer Survivor thread. I'm just coming to terms with this myself and it's 4 weeks after the surgery. I know I'm not who I was before the surgery. I'm different, I'm not quite the same. It's neither good or bad. I'm on a new journey and still on some old journeys. I don't know what my future is but I'm told it's pretty good. I know we're all going to die one day and on this day it's still not defined how that will be for me. I could die driving off to the next event. I could have another weird and wonderful disease. I don't know and honestly, I'm not really too worried about it at this point. Check back with me in 6 months, maybe I'll feel different but for now I have this day and this day is a GOOD Day! Just like all my days I hope to have. I'm alive and I'm going to make the most out of this Good Day. How about you?

From Leah Martensen - Cancer Survivor Jun 28th

Seeing Easter A Different Way!

2011-04-20T13:50:00.020-05:00

Yesterday, I was leading worship for our Life Support group. It was yet another gloomy, gray, wet, depressing day. This week it dawned on me that it might have been a day like today that Christ died. If not, these days sure do remind me every year around this time, when the weather gets what seem exceptionally gray of what he went through for me. But this year I saw something completely different.

Jesus came down to earth perfect! He had his life in check, his emotions in check, his walk in check. He didn't hold on to baggage, didn't have mental issues, wasn't addicted to anything and yet, everyone's issues brought him to the cross! Not only our sins as we know them but the sins of those around him back then. Christ wouldn't have died that day if everyone had their lives together. From the time Jesus was born, there were problems with him because of the leaders around that country and their own personal insecurities. No one would have been after Jesus if they didn't think he was some kind of threat to their own leadership. Pilate could not only find fault with Jesus, but he really couldn't or won't make the decision of his fate alone. He really let the people make that decision.

Even way back then people struggled with issues! They held on to their past, hide from their shame, covered up their weakness's. If you go back and read this weeks sad events, you will see all the dysfunctions that lead him to the cross without Christ having any dysfunctions at all throughout his live here on earth. That was so powerful for me to read, because for the first time I saw just how much destruction goes on when we don't allow God to lead our lives and take away our issues. I saw just how destructive we can be not just to ourselves but to the people around us. I saw just how sad of a live some of those people that made the way for Christ to hang on that cross just were. And, until they themselves died they lived a very unhappy live knowing what they did.

I guess if you could ever say that somebody's sins or dysfunctions paid off for you it would be right now. If it wasn't for those people back there with Jesus and all the sins they had in their lives they wouldn't have walked Jesus through the streets to that cross. In the end we're all the same, there's nothing new under the sun. Sin then is the same sin now but we can have hope, joy and strength in Christ as he leads us past our past and into our new future with him. April 20th,2011 Leah Martensen

Where You Go, There You Are!

2011-04-14T10:08:00.005-05:00

I've always loved the saying...Where you go, there you are! Life is about this moment, these lives around us, our purpose! When you combine those three things you have ministry and that's not just something I've been called to, we are all called to it! Look around see where God planted you and seed there.

2011 - Another Blog To Start The Year

2011-01-01T12:48:00.005-05:00

Well...it seems as though I'm right here every year at this time trying to start a blog journey. Only to give it up right after I post my first January blog. So, I won't make any promises to be better about this, but just give you all some personal updates. How's that for a New start to a New Year.

2010 was the most awesome ministry year. I hit over 18 different state throughout the year! I was on the road for over a month this last summer traveling with my ministry from Ohio to the west coast. Something I have always wanted to do. It was excited to see what God had in store. I met so many wonderful God filled people who walked through a lot of fire and was on their way to healing. A healing only God could do in their hearts. I was so blessed to hear so many stories and look people in the eye as they were sharing their hearts, struggles and joys. Man, that just doesn't get any better!

I also want to take this time to thank all the groups, organizations and churches that took a risk in having me in. In a time when money is short for everyone, faith is a little weaker to some and doors aren't as wide open as they use to be, you brought me in. You followed your heart, you stood strong and you moved forward to growing towards God's plans for your groups and your own personal lives and didn't allow anything to get in the way. I always say that God is so much better than money but sometimes money is so hard to get past. Satan has a stronghold to our pocketbooks and sometimes getting past that is tough. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to share with your groups or church. It was such a blessings to me and along the road in 2011 I grew from it. I learned that God has a lot of love and it shines through his people. That sometimes people will let me down but it's OK! That things I don't always understand just aren't for me to understand but none the list God is still in control. I learned although I'm in ministry God uses that ministry too, to reach me, grow me and teach me. It is about me at times! LOL! I give and God gives back though you all! I love that!

This year also came with some scary moment. Easter this year my husband was in the hospital. Many of you don't know that he has a heart condition that he picked up when I was tour with him in South Africa. 2011 his heart wasn't doing so well and it landed him in the hospital. That began our journey to healthy living for both of us. I'm glad to report that my husband(Jan) has bounced back 100% since April! His heart is doing really well and he's walking, biking, exercising and I can't keep up with him. But, that journey in April stopped my world for a few weeks. I wasn't sure how I was going to get through my husbands illness. I had fear I never knew before. Fear I never want to know again but fear that will probably come into my life at some point again. Fear is something we all have at one point or another. We can deny we have it, we can cover it up, we can lie we don't have it or we can step up to the plate and simple say...YES, I do have fear. What's important is what we do with that fear. If we hold on to it, it will bring us down. If we walk with Jesus and give it to him to carry we live a fuller life and allow him more control.

What do you have in your life that's controlling you or bringing you to fear? Today, you can hand it over and allow God to hold on to it. I'm not saying you walk completely fearless. I'm just saying you allow God to be your partner in this fear and allow him to comfort you, to direct you and to lead you down the right path. Things are going to happen in our lives that we simple aren't going to have control over anyhow so why not just allow God to have the control that we don't have. It will make our lives so much easier, bring more joy, more hope and more trust. I learned that in 2010. That right there brings me to a better 2011. Are you ready to have a better 2011 simply by letting God be your guide? We can all do this together. We can all join in and say...I'm working with God to make my future better than my past. I hope and pray you take my challenge for your life today.

I'm excited about 2011 as you can see and I want you all to be just as excited. Leave 2010 behind and move on with God as your driver.

Blessings!

Leah

(P.S...look for a NEW CD for 2011) - GOOD DAY!

Neither Snow, Nor Rain, Nor Sleet...

2010-01-12T05:52:00.001-05:00

Wouldn't you know it! Snow! Yes, this year I decided to book several January concerts while I was home here in Ohio. I knew that January could be hit or miss weather wise, but we can't let snow get in the way of anything around here. So, first night out and BAM! Snow! I think it snowed all day. Not a big flake kind of snow but a small you almost can't see it kind.

I kept looking out my window going, really? Snow? First concert of the year and you're already challenging me to see if I'm going to let snow get in the way of what God called me to do? Well, that's not even a consideration so have fun making my little world look beautiful with this nice white snow.

Last night was a wonderful time of sharing. First time in a long time that I was able to go back out with hubby by my side and have him running the sound for me. I miss those times! We don't get to do that much but this year we're working on getting back out there together more. That's why I love going out around the area because those are the times he can be with me. Last night he was able to do the driving to the event and help with lots of stuff I needed help with so that snow was not a challenge for me. God had it covered! I love that! You know God always has it covered! Sometimes, we just don't stop long enough to see that whatever we are going through he's got us covered. We're to busy not listening, trying to fix it or just not paying attention to him to see that God is trying to help us.

So, today look for him! When you run across that small problem you think you can solve all by yourself, or you have that huge huddle to take care of today. Look for him! You don't have to fix anything by yourself, you don't always have to have the answer. You just need to stop, pray and wait to see where GOD is going to lead you. Let him take care of you! He's pretty good at it, has lots of experience with it and always has the perfect answer to whatever it is we're going through. He is the one person you can depend on for the rest of your life who will always come through for you.

Blessings!

Make Every Day CHRISTmas!

2009-12-28T14:03:00.003-05:00

Well, I hope you all had a great CHRISTmas, didn't forget Christ and learned something new about him! CHRISTmas is always special! I don't think it's because of the gifts, the food, the snow or family coming together. I think there is something special that comes over us every year where God is trying to speak to us. Where he's trying to get our attention.

Though all the musicals, the messages, the gifts and everything else that comes with CHRISTmas, God's love is there. Trying to reach out to those that are lost in a time that brings them closer to searching. In a time where they are the loneliest. There's something magical about God's presence.

This year take this CHRISTmas moment with you throughout the year. Wake up every day as though it's a CHRISTmas morning. God doesn't want you to just see and feel him at Christmas but feel him every single day of your life.

Sometimes he's the loneliest throughout the year because he's waiting to hear from us. Don't wait till Easter to catch back up with him again and then again at CHRISTmas. That doesn't make for a lot of good days in between. Make a effect to connect with him daily in 2010.

The Genealogy of Jesus!

2009-12-23T14:34:00.001-05:00

Thought this would make a great read just before Christmas. Have you ever taken the time to read his genealogy? Here it is! Enjoy!

Matthew 1
The Genealogy of Jesus
1 A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham:

2 Abraham was the father of Isaac,
Isaac the father of Jacob,
Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers,

3 Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar,
Perez the father of Hezron,
Hezron the father of Ram,

4 Ram the father of Amminadab,
Amminadab the father of Nahshon,
Nahshon the father of Salmon,

5 Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab,
Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth,
Obed the father of Jesse,

6 and Jesse the father of King David.
David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah's wife,

7 Solomon the father of Rehoboam,
Rehoboam the father of Abijah,
Abijah the father of Asa,

8 Asa the father of Jehoshaphat,
Jehoshaphat the father of Jehoram,
Jehoram the father of Uzziah,

9 Uzziah the father of Jotham,
Jotham the father of Ahaz,
Ahaz the father of Hezekiah,

10 Hezekiah the father of Manasseh,
Manasseh the father of Amon,
Amon the father of Josiah,

11 and Josiah the father of Jeconiah[a] and his brothers at the time of the exile to Babylon.

12 After the exile to Babylon:

Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel,

13 Zerubbabel the father of Abiud,
Abiud the father of Eliakim,
Eliakim the father of Azor,

14 Azor the father of Zadok,
Zadok the father of Akim,
Akim the father of Eliud,

15 Eliud the father of Eleazar,
Eleazar the father of Matthan,
Matthan the father of Jacob,

16 and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

Galatians 1 - Dieting?

2009-08-13T10:47:00.002-05:00

This morning I decided to head over to Ephesian for devotions. Once I got over there I saw Galatians and thought hm, I'll just start there. Not really knowing why there, just doing it.

So I started with Galatians 1 and read. It started out with a greeting from the Lord, Paul's new life then went into why he was doing what he was doing and that by no means was he trying to please men but to please God! Then he ended with If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ!

See that's not new to me! I totally understood it the same way I've always read it but today something was added. Keep in mind that I was going to read Ephesians but apparently God directed me to Galatians. Was it for the actual scriptures? Yes and No!

Once I stopped at the end of the chapter I began to read the side notes that came with my new bible. Here is what it read:

Paul was intent on please God --not others--so he didn't change his message to please the crowds. what does this have to do with dieting?

That's where I went WHAT? What does that have to do with dieting or where did it even say I was looking for something on dieting? They really pulled that one out of the blue!

Reading on:
Because we like how it feels when people notice and say we look good...so others will find us more attractive...so we can win their approval.

But God wants us to focus on pleasing him. Women diet for many reasons, Ask yourself: When I diet, is my goal to gain human approval or to please God by improving my health?

OK, I wasn't heading in that direction today. I have been almost every other day but not so much today. I mean every day I start a new diet and I fail, I lose sign of my goal and I quite hoping to start back the next day.

I really didn't know what my true goal was. In my head I've always said I'd feel better but I wanted to look better to. But today God opened a new door of thinking for me. It's not about how I look to others it's about what I do with this body he has given me and honor him by making myself as healthy has I can for him.

I had the wrong goal. I didn't know I had such a desire to please others when I was dieting. I really hadn't thought about it that much. But I did like the notices. Who wouldn't like it when someone told you, you look good? But maybe I liked that more than I was even willing to admit and put more on that then I should have? People's approval matter to me, always has! So, dieting fits right into that bad thinking.

God clearly directed me to Galatians today. I have a new goal! A goal to please him in my dieting and forget about appealing to others. That's going to take some work I'm sure to keep reminding myself that my focus is not how I look but how I'm making myself healthier because God is asking me to be healthy to continue serving him as I know I've been called to do.

Let's take this challenge together!
Leah

Back In The States!

2009-03-08T16:39:00.005-05:00

Ok...so I had some time to spare and decided to once again changed my blog. I keep thinking it's going to motive me to write something really creative but so far I can't seem to really get motivated here on Blogger.

I just got back from Denmark a few days ago and the sleeping thing has got me but I think I'm finally bouncing back. It was great to visit like always but there always seems like something is missing there. Well actually there is a someone missing and that's God. Denmark feels like such a lonely place for people. There's not a lot of peace, hope or love. There's a lack of emotions. Even Jan my hubby can feel and see it all around him.

People are honored for what they have or accomplished rather than just saying hey I love you to them. They just can't seem to bring those words out regularly.

Going to Denmark revives me to work at growing closer to God and what he has called me to do because...I'm free to do that! Not all nations are and I want to take advantage of my freedom to do so and reach others for Christ.

So...as I get ready for this next tour I'm praying for God to do some big things with the people that come our way. I want to see lives changed. Not by me but by him. I'll let you know how it goes or I'll at least change my template again. LOL!

I'm Sorry Was That A Truck That Just Hit ME?

2009-02-23T23:03:00.002-05:00

I love it when you are going along thinking life is great and all is well and then bam! In one moment everything changes. How come that happens? Why do we have to have ups in our lives and downs? I'm an even keel kind of person, well at least I think so. I don't like things going up and down for a lot of reason. I sure hope tomorrow is different. I know I'm being vage just don't want to go into it but man I had no idea that this thing was going to hit me so hard like a truck hitting a wall.

Denmark!

2009-02-22T23:51:00.004-05:00

Well...in a few days I'm headed for Denmark! Like Denmark, Europe. My hubby is from there and his parents are celebrating their 50th anniversary! Yeah, for them! That's an accomplishment anyone should be proud of these days!

The flight is long and once we get there it will rain alot and be cold but one thing I can be sure of, we'll have great food. I love danish food. Other than fish there isn't much I don't like. One thing I like is Danish Hot Dogs! They are nothing like American Hot Dogs. They are so great! Hard rolls and liver pate'(yeah sorry for that) is one of my favorites too.

I'm singing over there. I've been requested for the party to sing something. I still haven't as of yet decided what that should be. I hope I can figure it out before I leave. LOL!

Next month I head out on tour. I'll be heading to Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee. If you are in those area's please let me know. I'd love to meet you.
Blessings to you all! LOL! That might just only be me the typer! LOL!

Lovin' These Templates!

2009-01-15T14:32:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I finally found a template for Blogger. Man, this has been the process. There use to be hardly any choices and now I have the world to choose from. For all you people out there that don't care for purple much you are going to hate my site. LOL! It's ok! I hate green so I totally understand you! Just dropping by on this freezing cold bright sun shiney day to say HI!

Hubby sick! It's only a matter of time!

2009-01-14T15:41:00.002-05:00

Man...this has been the year of sickness. From November to now both myself and my hubby have been sick. Now...he's really down and I'm counting the next couple of days down because it's only a matter of time before his bug will be my bug. We have a trip to Columbus planned and by the way he's reacting, there is no way I'll be leaving this house. LOL! Ok...off to take some stuff to beginning fighting this. Proactive! Is it possible? I sure hope so!

Don't Be Offended!

2009-01-14T03:53:00.004-05:00

Well...as you can see it's 3:54 am and I am up. Hubby had a coughing fit and woke me up. Don't worry about him though because he's sound asleep and I am not. LOL! I finally found a blogger template. I guess it took me being up early in the morning to do that. But I noticed I lost all my links. I didn't have many but I did lose a couple of links to other blogger sites. So...if that was you please let me know and I'll put you back up. For now you are lost forever and I have no way of finding you. I'm sure that no one is reading this. I haven't been good at all keeping this up. I'm going to try harder this year. Hopefully, I'll have some great things to say. LOL! Let me know if you are reading. That will help me keep coming back and posting. Hope you all are having a great 2009. Blessings!

IT'S BEEN A PRETTY BIG YEAR!!!!!!

2008-11-14T10:30:00.003-05:00

I haven't taken the time yet to count how many concerts I have done this year. I can say that I never ever expected to do what I've been doing in the last few year. I just wanted to be faithful. All I wanted to do was use the talent I was given. I knew I wasn't the best singer ever, I know I didn't fit a lot of things people tried to tell me I had to be. I knew I had passion and desire. I knew that all I ever wanted to do is reach people and use my talent to do that. So...today I was reflecting. God has been so good to me. I don't take what I do for granted. I'm humbled that he's allowing me to serve him. I've worked hard to get to this place along side him. I'm just so excited to be where I am and do what I do.

Last week on tour Beth and I spent lots of hours in the car. We wrote I believe 3 songs. Three GREAT songs. I know GREAT! I know the difference between ok, good and great. I don't push my songs because I know the difference. God placed Beth and I together for so many different reasons. We haven't figure them all out but you can see it in the writing, in the serving and in the heart of what we have been called to do. But more importantly you can FEEL it. You can feel God's arms around what we are doing. There is joy and peace and love all wrapped up in this journey.

So what am I saying? I love this place I'm at right now. It's peaceful!
Thank you God for investing in me and allowing me to serve you in the way I get to serve you.

I pray that all of you at some point in your life get to experience the closeness of serving your maker as I have. Invest yourself in people! When you do you'll see a return you can't explain.
leah

Verse for the Weekend!

2008-10-10T09:29:00.005-05:00

I love this verse! You'll see me post it from time to time. It's a reminder to me that God doesn't just call us to do something he calls us to do it well. But not for anyone but him! A lot of problems could be solved with this verse in the world today.

"Whatever you do work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men"
Colossians 3:23

Why is this so hard?

2008-10-09T21:09:00.002-05:00

I don't know why this is so hard! Why I start this blogging thing and then stop! Maybe it's because I can't find anything of any value to say. I don't know. Or maybe it's because I don't think I'm talking to anyone. But really...isn't a blog about your thoughts? Blogging started out as an online diary. Something you do to get your thoughts out and the bonus was people could read them. Well...here I am writing about blogging and why it's so hard to keep going. I'm not in a time in my life to go deep. It's been hectic. Strange stuff has happen this year and great stuff has happen. Life is moving fast and ministry is booming! Yet...I don't want to go deep! I'm afraid if I do to much would come out. So...for a time I'll stay shallow! LOL! Well...if anyone is reading please comment! Maybe that will keep my blogging! Blessings upon Blessings!

It's a lookin to PINK around here!

2008-08-25T08:23:00.002-05:00

Well...I'm giving this blog spot here another chance. I really need to find a template that works for me because this pink isn't doing it. I have yet to find something that works for me though. They don't have enough templates here. I'm going to be on the look out though. If you happen to know where I can get some cool blog backgrounds give me a shout out. Have a great and wonderful Monday!

My little blog here on Facebook!

2008-08-10T19:43:00.001-05:00

Well...I've added the Mirror Blog! Hope I can write here from time to time. We'll see. I've only been able to keep on blog going and you all know where that is. LOL! I think this is cool though that it's hooked into Blogger.

Facebook Mirror Blog!

2008-08-10T18:39:00.001-05:00

Welcome to my first Facebook Mirror Blog post! I'm hoping this will work. I really need to start using my blog here on Blogger. Well...nothing exciting to write as of yet. leah

Hubby's Golfing With A Friend!

2007-07-21T19:51:00.000-05:00

Yep...Jan just walked out the door to golf! He hasn't done this for a long while so this is what I'm going to expect when he get's back!

I stunk! LOL!
I'm almost sure he's not going to do well and he'll be unhappy with his swing or putting. But...why? It's not like he put time into it. It's not like he's a professional or goes out that much to really get better. But...for some reason he expects to be surprised with a good game.

We want results with little work! That's our society today. Show up and hope we look like the best! Now...in golf that's not going to work. In most things that's not going to work. So...why is it we keep aiming for that over and over with no change or time applied to making us better?

I want to be the BEST christian I can be! I'm sure you do too! Yet for many of us(me included at times) we show up for the day hoping someone will see us as the best christian without putting the work into it. Day in and Day out we show up for a day doing the same thing but not applying God's word to our life. If we don't take the time to read the word to see how God would have us grow for that day it's just as bad as my hubby showing up to play golf and expecting to do well.

Just a reminder to change a bad pattern that might be in your life. Starting off every day in the wrong way won't achieve the right goals.

The Bible!

Read it! :)

I'm going to be WRITING!

2007-07-11T07:07:00.000-05:00

Yes...today I'm headed to my good friends house Amy and Kerry! I'm going to be spending sometime writing with Kerry. I'm excited about that! One because...in the last few days I've had some stuff I needed to work through. That stuff might be able to surface through the writing. Two...because we are writing for NO reason.
Usually...I'm sitting down at the last minute to write with someone. Which is great but...time is never our friend. So...today I'm hoping to walk away with a song, or idea or music. Too cool!

Rain! Rain? "Rain" !

2007-07-11T06:58:00.000-05:00

Well...we missed another rain! Yeh...I'm not wanting a ton of rain because twice now our basement has flooded within the last 4 years. But...we are also trying to keep the new grass that was planted alive. All the rain is going either East of us or West of us. We can't seem to get any. Then next year...we will probably have more rain than what we really know what to do with.

Weather tends to be the one thing that God clearly can say to us "I'm still in control"! It doesn't matter if you believe in him or not you'll have to question his existence. You might not admit it, confess it or even believe but...you'll wonder! I know you will!

Givings A Pleasure!!!!!

2007-06-27T22:36:00.000-05:00

Well...since my hubby is a radiologist and reading MRI's is what he does I thought this was kind of interesting!
So...what's your take on this?

Donating money to charity can feel good – and now there’s new evidence to prove it. The regions of the brain associated with pleasure light up when you give, according to researches at the University of Oregon. Details are in the journal Science. They say brain-imaging technologies like MRI’s may allow economists to uncover more unknown facts about human behavior and motivation that were previously hidden. These parts of the brain have previously associated with the brain's response to rewarding stimuli, such as taking street drugs or viewing pictures of loved ones.

I'm starting this over once again!

2007-06-27T20:57:00.000-05:00

I'm thinking about moving my blog from there to here! For a lot of different reasons. No need getting into that but...I wanted to see if this was still working. Post a comment and let me know! I'm leaving on vacation tomorrow night! I can't wait! I'm more than ready! I'm excited and really looking forward to the down time.

Not really GOOD at this here!

2007-04-15T19:07:00.000-05:00

I know that I'm probably writing this to myself but...I have tried to keep this thing going only to walk away from it a time or two. I blog over at Shoutlife which is an awesome Christian community for people. They also have an artists, organization,comedian and author area. I thought I would blog that I'm blogging there. LOL! You can check out "Shoutlife" By going to www.shoutlife.com . You can stop by my spot at www.shoutlife.com/leahmartensen . You can also hear my new music there as well if you are interest. I'm not shutting this down because I'm hoping to get back to it. I've just been doing a lot of touring and working on my ministry and it's just hard to do it all. It bothers me to know I have this place and can't keep it up. I'd love to build it up someday. Blessings to you all! Or...LOL! to me if I'm the only one reading this! leah

Blogger

2007-02-28T16:51:00.000-05:00

Hey! I'm having problems with my site. If anyone is reading this can you help? I've just been told after trying to get my comments that "My site is closed due to term violations". What is that? I've not done anything. I had a spammer come on and it's been removed but I haven't violated anything? LOL!

COMING SOON!

2007-01-02T23:46:00.000-05:00

Hey!!!!!!!

2007-01-02T23:42:00.000-05:00

I'M STILL HERE!!!!! You just can't tell! LOL! I really stink at this blog thing! Have a GREAT NEW YEARS! 2007 has some great thing in store for everyone I'm sure. For me...I'm hoping it means less water and no flooding. That would be a great break! Blessings to you all! leah

Rocky- Yes Even I got a lesson from it!

2006-12-22T22:11:00.000-05:00

We were planning on going to the Nativity tonight as a Christmas get together with friends. Come to find out that wasn't showing at the Mall at night. Hmmmm...Not sure why but we chose the Rocky movie. We laughed and joked about how lame it was going to be. But...I have to say I really liked it! I gave it a 4 out of 5 tonight when ask. Maybe because I needed to hear what this movie was saying. It wasn't about winning to me but moving forward with your life passions. If you are a fighter that's all you know. Apply that to anything. If you are a SINGER...that's all you know. Fighters quit because people tell them it's time but...sometimes you know deep down you're just not being called to quit just yet. I'm at that point. Well...in my head. Life is about the young. I'm not old...not YET. But...some people try to put me there. God called me to sing and share my life with others. He's called me to use my gifts. I've never heard him tell me it's time to hang it up. But...I have had people for all the wrong reason try to make me think that. Tonight was a moment to re-evaluate myself. I believe that God was making me think again for the umpteen time that...it's not over till he says it is and I'll know when that is with no question. To sum this up...don't let anyone take your time from him! I know we all struggle with this from time to time. People can have all the right intentions or all the wrong motives it what they try to make you believe but...in your heart you know. There's that feeling of God tugging to keep moving past the hits. I'm keeping that close for 2007 Blessings and Merry Christmas! leah

Enjoying Christmas!!!!!!

2006-12-18T10:18:00.000-05:00

Well...now that all my travel is over I get to do all those things everyone has been doing for the last month. SHOPPING! I'm usually an all year shopper so it's done early. But...I've been to busy this year to make that happen. So...now I'm working on it and it's actually not to bad. Tonight I'm so happy that we are heading out with friends to Fox Theater to see "White Christmas". I love Christmas stories, and musicals. So I'm really looking forward to seeing this musicals which I've seen a millions times before. There's just something about old musicals and Christmas. So...this post didn't have much of value other than...I'm hoping you are enjoying this Christmas with your family and friends. Blessings!Leah

Nashville - Did you even know?

2006-12-18T10:16:00.000-05:00

I had a great time in Nashville this weekend! Totally got my music done. Had dinner with some great people(John and Robin)! Caught up with an awesome artist and her manager hubby(Kathleen and Brett) who took us around the whole opryland hotel Christmas world. Jan and I also had so time together just chillin out. We've decide that we're going to be doing more 3 day things. We really enjoyed this weekend! Blessings to you all this Christmas season! leah

I'm BACK(for today) :)

2006-12-18T10:12:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile I know! I probably don't have anyone coming here now but...totally understand why. I'm not good at keeping blogs up. I'm going to cut and paste a couple of things I've blogged on my Myspace so...let me know if your reading. The Spam guys got ahold of my sites so I had to clean that up too. Blessings to you all! or none! LOL! Leah

#9 on the Charts!

2006-08-02T23:13:00.000-05:00

Saturday, July 22, 2006

TOP 20 of the Month of July 22, 2006

TOP 20 of the Week on iggyROCKS! July 22, 2006

1. Revelation Project - Children - Revelation Project
2. ResDeus - Never Meant to Last - ResDeus
3. Kevin Max - Existence - Stereotype Be
4. Featuring Mike Lee Of Barren Cross - Make Believe - Soundtrack of a Soul
5. Bliss - All of Me - Quiet Letters: U.S. Edition
6. The Strangers - Quench The Thirsting - Compilation Album
7. Rock and Roll Worship Circus - A Beautiful Glow - A Beautiful Glow
8. Lindsey Kane - Satisfied - Lindsey Kane

9. Leah Martensen - Race Cars In The Rain - What I'm Not

10. Aisle Seven - Top - Aisle Seven
11. Transistor Radio - The Getaway - Transistor Radio
12. The Huntingtons & Darlington - Judy Jetson - Huntingtons & Darlington: Split CD
13. Stryper - To Hell With The Devil - Can't Stop The Rock: The Stryper Collection 1984-1991
14. Strangeland - The enemy has fallen - http://www.strange-band.com
15. Smalltown Poets - Every Reason - Third Verse
16. RezBand - Can't Stop Loving You - Ampenodectomy
17. Larry Norman - Watch What You're Doing - Something New Under the Son
18. Katholicus - Pull Me Through - No Greater Love
19. John Reuben - Do Not - Are We There Yet?
20. Jeremy Camp - Take My Life - Stay

ST. MICHEAL'S RCIA - PODCAST

2006-07-15T22:26:00.000-05:00

We have another play on podcast this week.
This weeks play is from St. Michael's RCIA.
St. Michael's is a Catholic church in Cranford, NJ.

The podcast show is hosted by Christopher Cavaliere. Song of choice this week was....."How Ironic"! Yes....How Ironic it is!
Thanks for the play!

WORD FOR THE DAY!

2006-07-15T22:23:00.000-05:00

"True peace is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of God"

MAD MONEY MACHINE

2006-07-15T22:21:00.000-05:00

Mad Money Machine one of the Top 10 Investment Podcasting programs played "Shut Up and Pray" on their lasted program. Using the song creatively to get a point across about stocks! It's excited to see how God can take a song and place it where you would least expect it. Although credit was not given to who or where the song came from with the rest of the other artists credits it's clear that God is a very creative God who also has a sense of humor! :) Never underestimate!

UPDATE ---- MAD MONEY NOW HAS ME ON THE CREDITS! Yeh! After sending an e-mail it was an oversite which they fixed! :)

ANOTHER FLOOD AT THE MARTENSEN'S

2006-06-27T21:32:00.000-05:00

I can't believe we are at this road again. Ohio was hit with a huge storm on Wednesday Jun 22 and I'm told it was a 500 years storm(whatever that is) Anyhow we ended up with 4 ft of dirty water in our basement. Last time this happened I only saw what it left behind. This time I was down in the water trying to move in waist deep water screaming on the inside "this can't be happening again." I have to say that I've been having this pitty party. Why would God let this happen to ME again? Like...I'm the only one in Sylvania dealing with this. But wait...I'm a Christian! God loves me! I serve Him! Shouldn't he send the water in a different direction for me?
Well...it would have been nice but...it didn't happen. Once I sat back and realized that there were others even worst off them me I started settling for well...it could have been worst. And the bottom line is...it could have been! I lost my keyboard(piano) in the flood. It's more about a huge amount of work issue that I don't know if we can keep up with but...already we've had a couple of friend step in to get the water out and tomorrow the walls will be ripped out. I know that God allows stuff for a reason. I'm hoping to find out just why this time. LOL! I'm hoping he will reveil it to me. I'll keep you posted! Blessings to you all!

This is not my basement! But...it could be!

Build The Church. com

2006-06-15T12:14:00.000-05:00

Hey if you want to listen to a podcast program go to www.buildthechurch.com They just featured my cd and I'm on Show #90. I haven't done my interview with them yet because I'm swamped with the diva retreat and dinner coming up. All the Christian D.I.V.A.s have been featured through the month. It's a pretty cool show! Leah www.joyfulsoundrecords

A small update!

2006-06-03T17:31:00.000-05:00

Well...I knew that I would be bad at this! I also knew that I'd feel guilty for not keeping it going. It's the "not letting anyone down thing"! The funny thing to this is...I'm not sure who's even reading this if anyone! Talk about having unnecessary GUILT! LOL!

Here's a small update on what's been going on. I've been busy doing concerts on the weekends, getting ready for the Christian D.I.V.A.s retreat and dinner showcase that's coming up June 23. Mega time doing that! Then in the middle of everything I got this e-mail about recording again. Totally out of the blue and totally a God thing! I'm going to be doing a more acoustic cd which is what I really do best. But...not only that I'm going to do something I've been running from. In music we all have a style that we lean towards and are best at. In my heart I've always known mine but fear it because it's either loved or hated. So...I did everything from Jazz to pop and stayed clear. But...I'm giving in! I'm going back and doing an acoustic folk, country soft rock cd. Yep...country! Not cowboy country! Not twangy country but folk soft rock country.(Think Susan Ashton) I'm not country, country! But...it's hard to explain that because once you say the word country people just make up their minds.

So...I'm asking that you stick around and take a listen when it's done and let me know what you think. There should be something to listen to around Sept. So...you can make fun of me then! LOL!
Blessings to all who come to this site!
Leah

Iggy Rocks Chart!

2006-05-03T16:48:00.000-05:00

Monday, May 01, 2006

TOP 20 of the Month of April

1. AP2 - My Sympathies - Suspension of Disbelief
2. Pivitplex - You Know - Under Museum Quality Glass
3. Lindsey Kane - Satisfied - Lindsey Kane
4. King's X - It's Love - Faith Hope Love
5. Kerry Livgren - Mask Of The Great...... - Seeds of Change
6. Joshua Hallas - Narrow Path - Joshua Hallas
7. Skillet - Kill Me Heal Me - Alien Youth
8. Russ Taff - I Still Believe - We Will Stand/Yesterday and Today
9. Newsboys - Shine 2000 remix - Shine: The Hits
10. Leah Martensen - Shut Up And Pray - What I'm Not
11. King's X - Looking for Love - Ear Candy
12. Kennebec - Live For You - Hidden Element
13. Daniel Amos - Never Leave You - Horrendous Disc
14. Strangeland - The enemy has fallen - http://www.strange-band.com/
15. Sonia V. - tell me - a thing or 2
16. Solid Ground - All God's People - Solid Ground
17. Salem Hill - Children of the Dust - Be
18. Petra - Judas Kiss - More Power to Ya
19. LARRY NORMAN - TWELVE GOOD MEN - Live At Cornerstone 2001
20. Jet Circus - Godless Happiness - Look At Death Now
Saturday, April 22, 2006

TOP 20 of the week April 21

1. Russ Taff - I Still Believe - We Will Stand/Yesterday and Today
2. Pivitplex - You Know - Under Museum Quality Glass
3. Kerry Livgren - Mask Of The Great...... - Seeds of Change
4. James Korzelius - Peter Goes Fishing (Coming Soon) - Free
5. Wahba - no rock - Proskyneo
6. Strangeland - The enemy has fallen - http://www.strange-band.com
7. Leah Martensen - Shut Up And Pray - What I'm Not
8. David Wallimann - Child From The Sky - Deep Inside The Mind
9. Spirit 101 - Revelation - http://www.spirit101.net/
10. Spirit 101 - False Reality - http://www.spirit101.net/
11. Skillet - Kill Me Heal Me - Alien Youth
12. King's X - It's Love - Faith Hope Love
13. James Korzelius - Coffee - Bext of The Cheezy Home Demo's
14. Jet Circus - Godless Happiness - Look At Death Now
15. Spirit 101 - S O S Rescued - http://www.spirit101.net
16. Chronos - Shout Louder - Downpour Chronos
17. Anavox - Walks With Angels (Strangers) - A New Voice
18. Spirit 101 - Youre Not Alone - http://www.spirit101.net
19. Zero Theory - She Dreams - Zero Theory
20. Yellow Second - Swingset - Altitude

2006-04-15T23:19:00.000-05:00

2006-04-15T18:52:00.001-05:00

Hope everyone has a great Easter! If you don't know Jesus as of yet! This weekend would be an awesome time to find out who he is and what he's already done for you!
Blessings!
Leah

2006-04-15T18:52:00.000-05:00

2006-04-15T18:49:00.000-05:00

2006-04-15T18:48:00.000-05:00

Shut Up And Pray Number 13

2006-04-03T09:30:00.000-05:00

Thanks IggyRock!
If you all get a chance stop by and take a listen to what IggyROCKS is playing.
There's something for everyone!

Saturday, April 01, 2006
Monthly TOP 20 on iggyROCKS! March

1. The Huntingtons - I Wanna Be a Ramone - Plastic Surgery
2. Sweet Comfort Band - Isabel - cutting edge
3. Shorthanded - Agony Ecstasy - Forever Yours
4. Red Tree - Follow Me - Last Day for the Blind
5. Liptocoal - Fly - Liptocoal
6. Hammertown - Reaching - Hammertown
7. Lifehouse - breathing - No Name Face
8. Kennebec - Live For You - Hidden Element
9. Efata - Fly - I Am Me I Em Ma I
10.Big Dismal - Remember (I.O.U.) - Believe
11.12 Stones - The Way I Feel - 12 Stones
12.The Huntingtons - No Pool Party Tonight - Plastic Surgery
13.Leah Martensen - Shut Up And Pray - What I'm Not
14.Kennebec - And You - Hidden Element
15.James Korzelius - Open Mic Night At The Gypsy - Free
16.Glen Lystne - You Move Me - Glen Lystne
17.G2C - Wailin' Wall - G2C
18.Sanctus Real - Everything About You - Fight the Tide
19.Salvador - Breathing Life - Into Motion
20.R.I.T.L. - Everyday - fragile ep

HE TAKES CARE OF US!

2006-03-25T09:56:00.001-05:00

I can see God doing a work in our lives. There are things falling into place without us touching a thing. I love those moments because I can't question where the help is coming from. It's pure God! No if's and's or but's about it. The doors become wide open and things just come together. I have to stop for a moment and breath!

I thank you God for working in our lives and letting us know that you truly care about us. I'll never understand why because we let you down way to often. I'm humbled to see the work you are doing and it keeps teaching me about your unconditional love. Thank you for giving us your son! We are just not worthy of anything you do for us!

2006-03-25T09:56:00.000-05:00

Do We Really Pay Attention? Another reminder!

2006-03-25T09:54:00.000-05:00

Christian D.I.V.A.s

2006-03-25T09:31:00.000-05:00

Here are some of the faces that are a part of Christian D.I.V.As. This is a AWESOME group for God!

CHRISTIAN D.I.V.A.S

2006-03-11T15:01:00.000-05:00

Devoted, Inspired, Victorious Artists! That's what Christian D.I.V.As is all about! My friend Jilleen and I started talking about doing something to help Christian female artists. Little did we know that just in a few months this thing would grow so quickly. There is a lot of STUFF out there today in Christian music and it's getting hard to know who to trust, who to get involved with and who's really behind what you do. Ok...I'm being honest here! I question peoples relationship with Christ! I have seen so much junk and weird behavior that I thought it was time to do something about it. Christian D.I.V.As has the best Christian artists around in the Indie world. Their hearts and music stands high above the rest. I'm really proud of everyone that is a part of this group. I'm grateful that I met my friend Jilleen at a World Vision retreat a year ago. I believe God has great plans for both of us as we work through the path of Christian D.I.V.As. It's so Cool! I'm excited! Check out the web site if you get a chance! Let us know what you think! Blessings! Leah www.christiandivas.net

Amazing!

2006-03-05T23:25:00.000-05:00

TOOK THIS OFF MY PASTORS BLOG WWW.FULLYDEVOTED.COM

MIRACULOUS INTERVENTION @ CROSSROADS

Last night (Friday) at 10;35 pm I told my wife Nancy that I felt strongly led to go over to our new church and pray. I specifically used the words "strongly led" because that was how I felt and I wanted her to understand why I was going so late on a Friday night - something I never do.

When I got to the church and let myself in (It had been locked up at about 9:30 PM) I noticed something shiny looking on the concrete floor at the far end of the lobby. As I got closer I could see it was water which was running out from the Early Childhood/Nursery wing of the building.

As I opened the double doors to the 50 foot hallway I found the brand new carpet was covered with 2 inches of water rushing toward me from the far end. I ran through the water and found the source in the last classroom on the left where the pressure tanks for our well system were standing. One of the PVC feeder pipes had burst and an open four inch pipe was gushing water against the tank and spraying up in the air.

With a quick prayer I bent over the gushing pipes and groped around for a shut off valve. Thankfully I found it and shut the water off. I ran back to the main lobby and called my buddy Jess who lives near the church and he came right over. We found two wet/dray vacs and started trying to rescue the classrooms from all the standing water

Then we realized that water had gotten across the lobby and under the sanctuary doors. Thankfully only a small area of carpet was wet and the water had not crested the sloped floor down to the stage area. We dove in with the wet vacs and kept any further damage to a minimum.

Jess called his wife Beth who called AAA Disaster Clean Up and they arrived about 1 AM as we were finishing up our vacuum brigade. By then our wives Nancy and Beth had come over to survey the damage and help clean up.

Looking back it is clear that the timing and leading of the entire event was an absolute miracle. I had no other reason to go to the church than that I felt led to go pray. As best we can estimate the water was running for a half hour to 45 minutes. If it had run all night our brand new -- never-been-used sanctuary would have sustained massive damage. Several rows of seats would have been ruined -- the sound system under the stage would have been destroyed and likely the walls would have needed to be torn out. The result would have been a 4-6 month delay with no place to meet since this was to be our first weekend in our new building.

God's timing is perfect. His leadings are exactly right. I know!

Thank you God for saving our church building from ruin as a sign to us of your amazing power, love and grace. And help us -- help me -- never to forget the power of this lesson!

I HAVE A CONFESSION!

2006-02-28T19:26:00.000-05:00

For the few of you who actually come here I'm falling behind! I must confess that my life is so busy and it's just getting harder to keep up with this blog. I'm feeling guilty! I'm putting so much pressure on myself and I have no idea why! I find it funny that I do that to myself. I've had a couple of projects I needed to get done which you'll hear about at a later date. I'm hoping I get familiar with my blog again and visit those who come here. From now to May I have several concerts on the books so...I'll be lap topping it on weekends. Blessings to you all!

JUST PRETTY!

2006-02-28T19:24:00.000-05:00

2006-02-28T19:22:00.000-05:00

2006-02-21T18:40:00.000-05:00

ARE YOU WATCHING FOR IT?

2006-02-21T18:35:00.000-05:00

Does it have to be this obvious?

Performance at EVELYN BAY

2006-02-18T09:59:00.000-05:00

Last night was kind of history! It was so much fun! Heather,Ryan,Brooke joined me at "Evelyn Bay's" coffeehouse. I was so excited for them as kids who are learning their craft and mastering it. I have known all of them since birth and there is joy in watching them learn the arts and applying their gifts. Heather played keys and a percussion drum while Ryan played guitar and violin. Then there's Brooke who just turned 9. She's a showboat! She sang and danced throughout the night. My hubby Jan even joined them on guitar which was also his very first performance! He started taking guitar lessons I believe about a year ago. God must have been proud of all of them! Oh..yes I did perform too...but I gave most of the night to my great friends. The coffeehouse was packed out and it was just a nice setting and night. Check out the pictures of the place.

THERE'S NO LOVE GREATER THAN HIS!

2006-02-14T16:22:00.000-05:00

HAPPY V DAY!

2006-02-14T16:19:00.000-05:00

2006-02-12T17:09:00.000-05:00

GOD LOVES THE CHEERFUL GIVER!!!!!!

2006-02-12T15:07:00.000-05:00

"YOU MUST EACH MAKE UP YOUR OWN MIND AS TO HOW MUCH YOU SHOULD GIVE. DON'T GIVE RELUCTANTLY OR IN RESPONSE TO PRESSURE. FOR GOD LOVES THE PERSON WHO GIVES CHEERFULLY"
2 Corinthians 9:7

Today at church it was like God planted me there! I almost wanted to look around and see if anyone else was looking at me because God was clearing speaking to me, Leah. I need to take moments like these any stop and remember that God does speak to me, you, us. We just need to listen.

I have been struggling with what I do. How do I balance what I do outside of the church with what I do in my own church? Actually...my only struggle with it is... people just don't get I'm trying to do what I can but I can't do it all. I feel like people are trying to punish me for what God called me to do leaving me feel like a failure as I try to balance it to the best of my ability. Which in turn comes to the point of "I'm serving man and not God!"

This scripture today is one I have read all my life. It's always there ever year almost at the same time to get people to give their tithes. But today...I saw something different. This scripture is not about money, it's about our lives in Christ! Giving isn't about the dollar but about everything we have. Giving is about everything we are as "Christ Followers." No where does it really say giving of money. It could be money but it's also our time, our services, our talents, etc.

God loves a cheerful giver but...here is the thing. I get to make up my own mind as to how much I give! I've never read that before! I shouldn't give reluctantly or in response to pressure! REALLY? Has that been missing all these years? Misinterpreted over the years or just not important enough for me to want to understand it? I don't no but..in my quest to balance I have been asking God to hit me over the head and tell me how I live with my decision to follow him and the recourse I get because of it. Today it came! I simply can't be a cheerful giver in area's I wasn't called to be a giver to! I know my calling and my heart's direction! God and I worked that out a long time ago. Some things I just can't do because I can't fit them in. I hate that but that doesn't mean I'm not giving to my "Giving capacity". It just means I can't do what others think I should be doing. I love serving and I'm a cheerful servant most of the time. But there is a season and a cycle to everything. I have to let stuff go and let God take care of the outcome of what others think I should be doing. Putting the head and the heart together is hard but it doesn't get any cheerier putting God first, understanding his calling and following it.

Boy! I'm glad I have that off my chest! :)

AND THE WINNER IS....

2006-02-10T18:23:00.000-05:00

GRAMMY WINNERS

Best Gospel Performance Pray - CeCe Winans
Best Gospel Song Be Blessed - songwriters:Yolanda Adams, James
Harris III, Terry Lewis & James Q. Wright
Best Rock Gospel Album Until My Heart Caves In - Audio Adrenaline
Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album Lifesong - Casting Crowns
Best Southern, Country,
or Bluegrass Gospel Album Rock Of Ages...Hymns & Faith - Amy Grant
Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album
Psalms, Hymns & Spiritual Songs - Donnie McClurkin
Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album,br> Purified - CeCe Winans

CAN YOU REALLY HAVE ALL THIS IN ONE PERSON?

2006-02-10T14:39:00.000-05:00

Your Five Factor Personality Profile

Extroversion: You have high extroversion. You are outgoing and engaging, with both strangers and friends. You truly enjoy being with people and bring energy into any situation. Enthusiastic and fun, you're the first to say "let's go!" Conscientiousness: You have high conscientiousness. Intelligent and reliable, you tend to succeed in life. Most things in your life are organized and planned well. But you borderline on being a total perfectionist. Agreeableness: You have low agreeableness. Your self interest comes first, and others come later, if at all. In general, you feel that people are not to be trusted. And you're skeptical that anyone else really feels differently. Neuroticism: You have medium neuroticism. You're generally cool and collected, but sometimes you do panic. Little worries or problems can consume you, draining your energy. Your life is pretty smooth, but there's a few emotional bumps you'd like to get rid of. Openness to experience: Your openness to new experiences is medium. You are generally broad minded when it come to new things. But if something crosses a moral line, there's no way you'll approve of it. You are suspicious of anything too wacky, though you do still consider creativity a virtue.

The Five Factor Personality Test

HEARTFELT SONG MUSIC GROUP

2006-02-08T21:41:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! I'm excited to let you know that I have just been picked up by "Heartfelt Song Music Group". DeAnne Arnold is now going to be my offical booking agent. Some of you might know her name because DeAnne used to be the Vice-President and Radio Producer for KC Christian Music. She has a lot of experience as an artist and a producer and I'm so excited to be working with her. She has a great heart and understanding for the Christian artist and the ministry that God called them to. It doesn't hurt either that...hmmm well...I consider her my friend!

A BOOK FOR ALL ARTISTS!

2006-02-06T15:16:00.000-05:00

Rory Noland wrote "The Heart of an Artist" a few years back. That book found it's way into the church. It's a great book for Worship leaders and Worship teams. It help's keep "It's All About Me" at a distance. Rory has another book out and I think it's a must have for all Christian Artists serving in or out of the church. You can find it over at www.heartoftheartist.com or your local Christian bookstore.

FOR ALL YOU FOOTBALL FANS!

2006-02-06T15:13:00.000-05:00

CHECK OUT #88

2006-02-02T23:22:00.000-05:00

OK! I had no idea I was on this list. I'm sitting at 88! I don't know where I am on the actual play list but if you would like to move me up please check out the song and vote! I could use a few votes! At least I know I'm somewhere in the top 100!
REBOURNE RADIO POSITIVE INDIE MUSIC
CURRENT TRACK LIST (ARTIST-TRACK-ALBUM)
PREMIER ARTISTS ARE FEATURED IN BOLD BLUE

LISTEN NOW! http://live365.com/stations/rebourneradio?play

Artist - Song - Disc
2 or More - Giver of My Life - Can You See Him?
39 Stripes - Burn - 39
Adam Weber - Mishler [More Than Me] - All I'm Not
Adam Wright - Better Off in Two - Adam Wright EP
Aliciadine - Even Now - Aliciadine
Alison Stevens - River of Mercy - River of Mercy
Alison Stevens - You Alone Are God - You Alone Are God
Angels Wake - Going Home - Light Enough To Travel (EP)
Anne Davis - Temple of Contradictions - Letters, Prayers, and Journal Entries
Antiapathy - Weak One - EP
Arma Secreta - Segue Debris - Segue Debris (single)
Ashley Reynolds - All That You Bring - Broken Pieces
Auto Defé - Funeral Day - When The War Is Over EP
Benjamin Del Shreve - Be Poetry - Benjamin Del Shreve Demo
Blue News - On That Dark Road Again - Blue News Jan 14, 06
Bodi Profit - habitual - United States of Hollywood
Brownbag - Walls
Brunton - Son of Man - Living For Another Life
Burning Theory - Element of Beauty - The Battle for Saint Ezra
Candlefuse - Bulletproof - Candlefuse EP
Casey Jamerson - My Cowboy - Casey Jamerson
Christine Martucci - Can You Feel It - Christine Martucci
Christopher Ames - The Remnant - Believing Beyond the Shadows
Clemency - Hunger
Codie Prevost - The Road Ahead
Common Destiny - If That Isn't Love - He Believes in You
Crippled Nation - Last Time - Fortunate Accident
Crippled Nation - Waiting - Still Standing
Cross Town Band - Cosmos - Point Of View Jan 14, 06
Crossway Worship Band - Caribbean Praise - Crossway Worship V.04
Crossway Worship Band - He is Lord (rap) - Crossway Worship V.04
Crownd - Firestarter - Firestarter (single)
Crystal Cameron - All Around You - Crystallyzed
Cycle Down - Rewind - Cycle Down EP
Cynthia Hunt (CWB) - Amazed - Crossway Worship V.04
D' Alternative - I Can Do All Things - LTC Music
Dayna Varga - You Are Amazing - Take Me to the Place
Disciple - The Wait Is Over - Disciple
D-M.A.U.B. - Christ Like - Timeline
Doxa - Breathe On Me - Doxa EP
Doxa - Your Day - Doxa EP
Echosflow - Blessed Assurance - Hope's Last Breath
Echosflow - Hope's Last Breath - Hope's Last Breath
Elijah Ride - Crashing Down - Elijah Ride
Emily Feliciano - La Via Dolorosa - Emily Feliciano
Emily Shea - What You Don't See - Atlas 8
Eric Vinson - Only Thing - There To Here
Erik Smallwood - Just ME - Erik Smallwood MySpace
Eulogistic Alliance - Take It to the Streets - Eulogistic Alliance
Ever Ready - Something Better - Skidd Tunes
ew@40 - Here I Am - ew@40 EP
Fabrik - Fall of the Romantic Empire - Fall of the Romantic Empire
FailinGravity - Tainted - Tainted (single)
Flying Just Below Radar - The Offensive Drive - Flying Just Below Radar
Freeworld with James Govan - Save Our Soul - Save Our Soul
G.A.S. - Love Neva Fails - Love Neva Fails (single)
G.A.S. - Make Me Clean - Make Me Clean (single)
Gretchen - Zion - In The Mean Time
Grey Holiday - Alabaster - Grey Holiday EP
Hans York - Listen To The Moon - Inside Out
Hey Heidi-Rae - Heartbeat - Back to the Blackboard
Hill of Giants - Confessions of a Free Man - Eureka
Hundred Year Storm - Yesterday - Hundred Year Storm
Immanuel - We Fall Down (instrumental) - Immanuel EP
Innocent Noise - The Fall
J Brian Hill - Your Love Is Higher - Life, Love & Worship
Jacquie Brown-Hadnot - Psalm 91 - In God's Care
Jade Sholty - Hero - One Breath at a Time
Jamie Baker - What You Mean To Me - Jamie Baker
Jason Scott - You Are Faithful - You Are Faithful (single)
Jeff Eaton - Calling On Angels - Jeff Eaton EP
Jerimae Yoder - Not In Vain - Personal Revolution
Jerry Has No Skates - Strawberry Fields - Jerry Has No Skates VS Wicker
Jim Black - Deep Deep Love - The Basement Sessions
Jimmie Bratcher - The Rain - Something Better
Joanna Martino - Right Where You Want Me - My World
Jocelyn - String Theory - Strings of Theory
Jonathan Taylor Rose - Barefoot Angel - Jonathan Taylor Rose
Judah Priest - Hello - Judah Priest
Kai Austin - Diamond in the Rough - Happy Place
Kalled Out - Nobody Will Believe In You
Ken Weatherford - Made For More - Chalk
Lacie Thibodeaux - Ordinary Child
Lance Christopher - The Daddy Song - Saved By A Woman
Last Page First - Song For You - Song For You (single)
Laura Konowal - Warm Invitation - Laura Konowal
Lea - Testimony - Testimony
Leah Martensen - Shut Up and Pray - Leah Martensen
Lost Anthem - Hey DJ - Lost Anthem
Mahogany Jones - manifesto - Lyricist Lounge, Vol. 1 Disc 2
Manhattan Transfer - Java Jive - Swing
Mary Beth Lavin - How Much - How Much (single)
Mary Cox - For You - Mary Cox EP
Mary Beth Lavin - How Much - How Much (single)
Master's Table - Alive - Alive EP
Matt Nightingale - Always Entertaining Me - Still Standing
Mike Musick - Got Your Back
Mike Simmers (CWB) - Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty - Crossway Worship V.04
Mindy Smith - Come to Jesus - One Moment More
My Book Your Sandwich - Fall With You - Something for the Ride Home
Naild - Shed Your Skin - Carry The Weight Jan 14, 06
Neal Jones - The Lord Your God - Steppin' Out In The Power
Neviah Nevi - Bare the Scars - Neviah Nevi
North of Here - Dare You to Dream - North of Here
Not Our Own - One Thing - Not Our Own EP
One Way Worship - My Hiding Place - Worship
One Way Worship - In Your Glory - One Way Worship
Perspective - Last Forever - 2006 n/a Jan 24, 06
Poor Man's Riches - Motions
Prizm - Watch Ya Back - Prizm EP
Pure Evidence - Come To Me - Pure Evidence
Red Baron - Beautiful - Paint The Town Red
Red Baron - Eyes Wide Shut - Painting the Town
Renesha Bradden - Jesus Calling - Fella-Ship Sampler
Resolution - Static - Resolution
Retrospect - Forgetting Evelyn
Roads 2 Rome - Driving Fast - Driving Fast (single)
Rob Halligan - Dancing With Seagulls - Dancing With Seagulls
Roger Mexico - From the Start - Roger Mexico Demo
Rushmoore - I Am Jack's Broken Heart - Don't Think of This As Rejection
Salah - My Heart's Desire - Jesus 101
Sandoval Band - Just One Solo Uno - Sandoval Demo
Scottish McMillan - Don't Listen to Me - Vice Verses
Seven Day Believer - Come To Me - Get Off The Fence
Seven Day Sacrifice - The Safety Of Knowing
Shots - Beautiful Sound - Beautiful Sound
Sides of the North - The Incurable Romantic - The Incurable Romantic
Silhouette A.D. - Paper Thin - Silhouette A.D. Demo
Skuf - Fall - Skuf
Slow to Speak - Anticipation - Slow to Speak EP
Sonflowerz - Move Me Alive In You - Sonflowerz
Sonia V - Alive - Sonia V
Soulfood - Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Soulfood - Jesus, Jesus, Jesus - Jewel Of Grace n/a Jan 14, 06
Soulja - Soulja - Genesis A.D.
Soulwinner#1 - Shout Music - The Representatives
Strangeland - The Enemy Has Fallen - Strangeland
Substantial - From Sinner to Saint - >From Sinner to Saint
Taylor Sorenson - What Love Is
The Awkward Romance - 490 (My Delilah) - To Breath Is To Compromise
The B.O.M. Squad - Jesus I Know You Love Me
The Holiday - False Impressions of Being Right - Starting Over EP
Todd Agnew - Isaiah 6 - Reflection of Something
Total Surrender - Hear My Cry - R.A.W.
Tydyl Wave - Alive - Break Down the Walls
Unlock Doors - Worth U - Unlock Doors
Vince Leffler (CWB) - Speak - Crossway Worship V.04
Vultcha - 2Morrow - 2003 Promotional
Wahba - Giver - The Beautiful Effect
Wahba - No Rock - The Beautiful Effect
Warriors of the Cross - Highest Praise - Warriors of the Cross
Wes Tucker and the Skillets - Left Behind
Yes No Maybe - Who You Are - Who You Are
You - La Lindsay - Y-O-U
Zak Perry - The Falling Down - Somewhere in the Morning
Holly Simmers
Rebourne Entertainment & Radio Network
1555 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104-2448
Phone: (901) 276-1518. Fax (901) 521-9920
http://www.rebourne.net
http://www.rebourneradio.com
http://www.rebourne.us

This is perfect!

2006-02-01T09:34:00.000-05:00

I loved this little ditty. I just think sometimes as Christian we tend to be like this. I have the Joy of Jesus but right now I have the blues. Joy and the blues just can't go together. It's like water and vinegar! Either you have Joy in your life or you don't! Have you ever noticed that so Christian's have never really had Joy in their lifes? I have friends that you almost have to laugh..."What would their lifes be like if they didn't have Christ?" They have so much conflicting stuff in their lifes and why? Why have all that baggage? Why not work towards having joy? Having Christ in our lives is not just about getting through the gate when we die! Our life should reflect our beliefs. If we can't show the world that God has changed our lifes...the world won't want to change! So...my challenge for today is...Show the Joy of Jesus! Put on a happy Face! Look like you do have true joy! People are watching!

CROSSROADS COMMUNITY CHURCH

2006-02-01T09:23:00.000-05:00

In a month we'll be in our new building! I can't wait! Right now it takes between 25 to 30 minutes to get to church from where we live. Our new building is less than 8 minutes away from us. That's so cool! Lots of stuff that needs to be done. Jan, my man has worked hard on tech stuff for the new building and we're eager to try out all the new equipment. So...here's a couple of pictures I was able to grab from our new church blog.

Ever Feel Like This?

2006-01-29T20:16:00.000-05:00

Today is THURSDAY!

2006-01-26T14:36:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I thought was Thursday. I was in a panic because I had so much to do before getting ready for the concerts this weekend. As soon as I put my head to the pillow I realized that...I still have one more day before Friday. I have no idea what I was thinking. LOL! All that fret for nothing! So...that made me think...Do we sometimes just look for stuff to fret about? If you are reading this you have GOT to know that I'm not a deep writer! My messages are simple and that's how I am on stage. Have you ever heard of KISS(Keep It Simple Stupid)? That's my moto. If I can get it... anyone can! God didn't make us to be fretters! We say we put our trust in him and the first sign of trouble we cave. Yesterday I was freting over nothing. A whole day my mind had something on it, it didn't need to have. What a waste of brain space! Not only that...it wasn't even something to fret over! Wasn't life threating,wasn't going to change the world,wasn't going to change my life style or my ministry. So...why did I choose to do that? I'm guessing because it was easy to focus on the negative and not the postive. If I would have stopped long enough and listened God probably would have showed me it was Wednesday but...he couldn't break through. I wouldn't let him until I finally rested my mind and as soon as I did he spoke! Sometimes we just need to stop...and be quiet! God speaks in quiet moments! So...take time to just be quiet! He wants to talk to you but...you need to listen!

ANYONE OUT THERE? LET ME TAKE A LOOK!

2006-01-26T14:32:00.000-05:00

Almost makes you want to talk to him! LOL!

Concerts This Weekend!

2006-01-24T16:11:00.000-05:00

Well...I'm back out! This Friday I'm at "Evelyn Bay" in Temperance. Saturday night I'm at the "Higher Rock Cafe" in Westland, MI. Two long events back to back. It should be fun and hopefully inspiring. If you are around those areas come join me. If you are reading this please pray! You just never know what's in store and who God just might bring my way.

WELL! WHAT DO YA KNOW!

2006-01-24T14:42:00.000-05:00

CLOSING THE BOOK OF DANIEL NBC is dumping its controversial series The Book of Daniel. The show will not even air the last of its scheduled 8 episodes. It told the story of a pill-popping Episcopal priest coping with his dysfunctional family. The Book of Daniel was a distant third during its time slot.

FOCUS

2006-01-22T14:28:00.000-05:00

A REMINDER!

2006-01-22T12:35:00.000-05:00

Yesterday our church had a small music conference. They brought in Paul Black from Northridge Church around the Detroit area. He asked us all "How many of you feel you are Volunteers?" ok...."How many of you feel you have a calling from God?" I've never looked at anything I've done as just a volunteer position! I've always known that God has called me to serve. I have a passion for it and a burden to do it.
Sometimes I let people get in the way of that! I lose site of it and I'm confused by it! Yes... Confused! Because I forget whom I'm serving! I wished I didn't but every now and then I lose my focus. It's so easy to blend serving God and Church together. But it's not the same! I can't be all things to all people but...I try! I try so hard it becomes blurry in my mind how to make it all work. How to give a piece of me to everyone one and come out on top. My mind knows this won't work but my heart keeps trying. I hate letting people down.
Then there's the "I don't measure up thing". I work hard to not buy into it. Most of the time It works for me but there are days I let people get the best of me. It's really what my ministry is about! Getting people to understand their value in what God called them to do. So...why do I struggle with something I know I shouldn't?

Because if I struggle with it I become ineffective! Satan has ahold of the one area I can shine for Jesus. If I can't focus on what God called me to do then...I can't be of much use to God. Satan knows where to attack everyone where they are the weakest. He knows my weakest place! I hate that! But...the good news is...I don't stay weak for long. I can recognize him quicker now. I'm going to let people down! People are going to let me down! I need to place myself in the hands of God and forget about all the other garbage that gets in the way. The only one I need to please is God! The maker of me! The one who called me and promised me years ago to not leave me by myself in this ministry thing! I can't go wrong putting my trust in HIM!

So...Pastors! What do you think?

2006-01-19T12:56:00.000-05:00

I found this over at Garrett News. I thought I would post it since well...this is a blog and maybe there are pastors lurking. So...let me know. Interesting! OKLAHOMA BAPTIST UNDER FIRE An Oklahoma pastor's blog is creating controversy within Southern Baptist ranks. The Southern Baptist International Missionary Agency is already taking steps to throw Wade Burleson off their board. They say Burleson has broken a trust by writing about a meeting on his blog. Burleson is pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Enid, Oklahoma and has criticized the denomination for being ideologically driven to cleanse its ranks of dissenting opinions beyond liberalism. When Southern Baptists meet in North Carolina this June, the will decide whether to approve his removal from the board. BURLESON'S BLOG BURLESON'S CHURCH BAPTIST STATE CONVENTION STATEMENT

ARE YOU MISSIN ELVIS?

2006-01-18T21:59:00.000-05:00

GARBAGE

2006-01-17T22:14:00.000-05:00

How long has it been since you sat down and thought about the sin that has entered in your life? If you are like me...you haven't given it much thought because you haven't killed anyone or you don't curse or drink or smoke or whatever you think makes you a good person. You go to church, you pray and you basically love people. But...everyday we do something stupid. We say something we shouldn't, we watch something we shouldn't and last but not least we THINK something we shouldn't. AH...the mind! I can hold all my thoughts so no one knows just whats on my mind! I can hate and not say it! I can harm and not do it! I can envy and no one will know. Well no one but.....God! If all of this builds over time and goes unnoticed it begins to eat at our soul. We need to clean it out. We need to take it to God and ask for forgiveness. Don't think you are sinless! No one is! Some sins are easy to spot, others are not! Take a good look at yourself... you might see something you've missed. Sin is funny that way!

WHAT I'M NOT

2006-01-14T10:09:00.000-05:00

“In the past, I struggled with the ‘What I'm Not’ concept, yet God was calling me. I was sure that if He was calling me, He must be expecting the best. I told Him: ‘I am just me.’, avoiding my calling as I worked at being the best. Then God asked me this question: ‘What is "the best" in your eyes’? I didn't have an answer. I just knew I didn't want to let Him down.” Once Leah reconciled the fact that God was looking at her heart and her attitude rather than her music industry status or her pursuit of perfection, her ministry took off. As she put it: “It's not about how much talent you possess but what you do with what you have been given. I figured out a little biblical secret and I want to pass it on.” Quoting portions of the lyrics from “What I’m Not’: “‘What I'm Not’ is really ‘Who He Is’ and ‘What I Want to Be’, because.... ‘Where I'm at’ is ‘Where He Is’ and ‘He Loves Me for Me’ and ‘For What I'm Not’. That is way cool! Give it a moment to sink in. You'll get it!”

GOOD MORNING!!!!

2006-01-14T10:02:00.000-05:00

I have no idea why I'm up so early today! But...I am! It's a time for me to reflect and understand that God's listening in my time of quiet. Which I don't have much! I'm gearing up to be on the road again. Working with churches through my concerts. I'm going to be busy from now to next Christmas. I can't wait to do what God called me to do and yet..I can't look to far ahead and think how busy I'm going to be. Pray I stay focused and in the direction God has called me.

THIS I AM PROUD OF - 22 YEARS!

2006-01-07T21:05:00.000-05:00

Today I have been married to hubby for 22 years. In a world that can't stay together for 5 minutes I'm proud that I never hung it up when I could have or given up just because it was the easier thing to do. You don't know what you have until you move passed that 5 minutes and really learn about each other. That doesn't come over night and takes years. People miss the whole reason for marriage because they just simply give up to easy. I love you Janny! Even when I'm mad! LOL! I also know that you love me and I'm glad that God sent a guy my way that believes in him. I'm glad I didn't take second best and held out for a Godly man! Ok...was that good! LOL!

JUST PLAIN OLE COOOOOOL!!!!!!

2006-01-03T22:25:00.000-05:00

WE ARE! AREN'T WE?

2006-01-03T22:14:00.000-05:00

This is the time of year when people start tuning out. Depression creeps in. Christmas is over, families go home, nothing to look forward to. January is a no nothing month. But...God is with us! All the time! Sometimes though we choose to not include him and then blame him. Use this month to draw closer to him. If you feel those blues let him know. Don't turn from the other person who gets YOU! Draw close! This season doesn't last long it just feels like it!

Another YEAR!

2006-01-01T01:39:00.000-05:00

One last Merry Christmas!

2005-12-26T21:25:00.000-05:00

So...how did you spend your Christmas? We(Jan and I) did something we've never done before. Spent Christmas by ourselves with thousands of other people! LOL! He headed for Florida and made a last minute decision to go to Disney for Christmas. Bad choice! Disney was FULL yes full by noon. So we had to make new plans and headed over the Animal Kingdom. That wasn't to bad but there were people everywhere. Around 6 o'clock we headed back to Disney and there was still people everywhere. We couldn't even walk. If you like crowds you'll love this place at Christmas. If you hate crowds. I say...stay away. Everyone at Disneys was from another country. Very little english was spoken yesterday. We thought that was funny! Wednesday we are heading over to Epot to see Steven Curtis Chapman do the Christmas Story reading. That should be great! Well...one last Christmas picture! If you have a Christmas day story post it. I'd love to read it! Blessings!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2005-12-24T21:47:00.000-05:00

Have a GREAT and BLESSED Day!

THE END OF WATERMARK!

2005-12-22T13:27:00.000-05:00

This from Rocketown Records 12.13.05 Nathan & Christy Nockels will culminate their recording career as Watermark next year with the March 14 release of A Grateful People and a supporting 18-city, Spring 2006 tour. Recorded live at the couple’s home church, Fellowship Bible in Franklin, Tenn., the night of worship features special guests and Nockels’ friends Chris Tomlin, Point of Grace, Charlie Hall, Shane & Shane and Ed Cash. Watermark’s Christy Nockels said, “Nathan and I have loved every part of the Watermark journey... writing, recording, producing, leading worship, concerts, interviews, everything. However, this past year God has made it very clear that we can’t do it all. We want to be available to God and really just in a place of asking Him what is next. God is clearly calling us to close the Watermark chapter of our lives… With A Grateful People, we want to celebrate all that God has allowed us to accomplish through Watermark. Undoubtedly, the most cherished pieces of our journey are the people, and the rich community we’ve found on our path inspired the making of this new I knew this was coming! Watermark was one of my favorites. Very good lyricist. I'm sorry to see them end! I'm sure God is calling them in a new and wonderful direction.

I thought this was funny!

2005-12-22T05:30:00.000-05:00

HOLIDAY? Are we making to much stink about nothing?

2005-12-22T05:11:00.000-05:00

Do you know what the word "Holiday" means? Holiday - noun A day free from work that one may spend at leisure, especially a day on which custom or the law dictates a halting of general business activity to commemorate or celebrate a particular event. A religious feast day; a holy day. Chiefly British A vacation. Often used in the phrase on holiday. Is Holy day such a bad thing? Now...just to let you know I'm on the Merry Christmas bandwaggon. Just because it's fun but...we've been saying Happy Holiday's for years. Why is this year any different? Well...because the world thinks it's getting away from what we are actually celebrating by saying "Happy Holidays". Funny thing is...they don't even know it but they aren't! So...is the joke on us or them? Sometimes people fight stuff so heavily that they're right back to where they started? God has to have a sense of humor! What must he be thinking?

IT'S FREEZING!

2005-12-21T07:11:00.000-05:00

I'm almost welcoming the thought of more new snow! At least it will warm up here a bit. I can't believe how cold it is for December. It's like January weather. I'm so tired of it. Oh...wait...what am I complaining about? I'm leaving for Orlando on Friday. Ah...the thought of 65 - 70 degree weather. Even if it drops to 59 it's still better than Ohio.

UP FOR GRAMMY'S

2005-12-20T21:41:00.000-05:00

Is there a lead girl is the bunch? Interesting! Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album Lifesong, Casting Crowns All I Really Want for Christmas, Steven Curtis Chapman Redemption Songs, Jars Of Clay Hymns, Out Of Eden Healing Rain, Michael W. Smith Live Wire, Third Day Best Rock Gospel Album Until My Heart Caves In, Audio Adrenaline Higher Definition, The Cross Movement Day of Fire, Day Of Fire Truth Is Fallin' in tha Streetz, Fresh I.E. Dichotomy B, Grits

Michael W. Smith Movie

2005-12-20T21:37:00.000-05:00

A film called The Second Chance, starring singer Michael W. Smith will show in 35 markets on February 17th. Smith will also be featured on the soundtrack along with Third Day, Casting Crowns, and Jars Of Clay. It hits store shelves a week from Tuesday. In the film, Smith plays an associate pastor at a mega-church who is sent to serve at a downtown sister church with a largely black congregation.

COME, THOU, LONG-EXPECTED JESUS

2005-12-20T11:37:00.000-05:00

You bring the Hymnal, I'll bring the History ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Charles Wesley wrote our Christmas hymn, “Come, Thou, Long-Expected Jesus.” He also wrote 17 other Christmas carols. He did not want to just paint a picture of Jesus in the manger; he wanted the entire Christmas story to have a personal application. Wesley wanted to impress God’s people that Jesus is not only the “desire of every nation” but should be the personal “joy of every longing heart.” We also know that Jesus has the “government on his shoulders” but he was born to reign personally “in us.” ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Come, thou long-expected Jesus, born to set thy people free; From our fears and sins release us, let us find our rest in thee. Israel’s strength and consolation, hope of all the earth thou art; Dear desire of every nation, joy of every longing heart. Born thy people to deliver, born a child, and yet a king; Born to reign in us forever, now thy gracious kingdom bring. By thine own eternal Spirit rule in all our hearts alone; By thine all sufficient merit raise us to thy glorious throne.

Another Christmas!

2005-12-19T17:06:00.000-05:00

A picture that says it all for this season!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2005-12-18T23:54:00.000-05:00

I found this by mistake on a forum that I haven't been to for months. I wrote this Dec 20th 2004. I thought it was worth bringing back up and posting here! Ok.... I'm a bit slow at times but this just came to mind. If we can't use Merry Christmas any more and we will all need to have signs in our window or store that say "Happy Holidays". What holiday is it? If they do away with Christmas then what holiday is it? The nameless holiday? The secret holiday? The you make it whatever you want to holiday? Are we going to have generations to come that get December 25 off and don't know why? LOL! Just a thought!

Itunes - You gotta love it!

2005-12-18T09:24:00.000-05:00

I made it! I made it into the world of Itunes. You can download me now for .99. Pretty cool! It took forever! I'm talking months! But the songs are there now so a download to your hearts desire! What I'm Not is the cd.