It’s the most wonderful time of the year. However, Christmas time generates strange behaviors. It drives people into frantic holiday mode. Many scramble to be the first in their neighborhoods to put up decorations. Stores decorate before Halloween items leave the shelves. Radio stations blast favorite carols during Thanksgiving. To-do lists grow, parties to attend increase, and credit cards max out!
Read MoreMillions will gather together for Thanksgiving to celebrate with family and friends. The turkey still remains the traditional centerpiece, sometimes accompanied by a honey baked ham. Tables will be set with all the trimmings: rice, gravy, macaroni and cheese, green bean casserole, corn, broccoli, stuffing or dressing, yams, cranberry sauce, casseroles, devil eggs, buttered rolls, iced tea and a myriad of other favorite dishes. Ice cream and pies—pumpkin, sweet potato, and apple—along with various assortments of cakes and cookies, will complete the Thanksgiving spread.
But what if Jesus invited you to His Thanksgiving dinner?
The entire Noble clan, all eight of us, flew to Oahu, Hawaii in August for our first official family vacation. We spent six nights and seven days discovering the wonders of the island and culture. Since my husband and I vacationed in Oahu on two prior trips, our joy came from watching our children and grandchildren delight in their first-time visit.
We landed and our Griswold moments began (for those who recall the hilariously funny movie, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation with Chevy Chase, you know what I mean. If you don’t, watch the movie).
Due to all the violence occurring in our world today, our small Bible study group decided to attend a defense class. Not just any defense class, but one for the ladies only. I learned of Foxy Defense through a dear friend. Her sister, Demetra Bradley, a licensed defense trainer and detective with the Ft. Worth PD teaches defense classes for young girls and ladies of all ages. So, I reached out to her and set up the registration process.
Read MoreMy father followed this instruction with me, so disciplining my sons came naturally. But as “NanaCUTE,” I find it difficult to watch my son, Ryan, discipline my grandchildren. I try to warn them of the impending danger before it happens. The girls usually listen, but my grandson, Judgy… let’s just say, he seems to enjoy testing the limits… until…
Read MoreOn this Mother’s Day, I reflected on the years spent with my two sons. Although grown now, Ryan and Branden said and did things when they were younger that still penetrate my heart today. As I thought of them, I chuckled, smiled, and even cried. I periodically remind them of two unfulfilled promises below. The walk back in time triggered precious memories and what I perceived as wishful words from them.
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