Mirror Mirror Off the Wall

Bezalel made the bronze washbasin and its bronze stand from bronze mirrors donated by the women who served at the entrance of the Tabernacle. Exodus 38:8 NLT

It must have been a great sacrifice for these women to give their bronze mirrors to Bezalel. For some, it possibly meant never being able to see their reflection again.

There are days that I feel Jesus is asking me to give my mirror to Him. There seems to be a “Call” from Heaven that is pleading to look at myself less and to fasten my eyes upon my Savior more. It’s not as easy as it seems. Giving my mirror to Jesus means that I can’t always be looking out for “me”.

There are days I fail. I clutch my mirror like a toddler clinging to his favorite blanket and insist on keeping it. On those days I am most miserable.

But there are other days that I take the mirror off my wall and give it to Jesus and a miracle takes place. I see life so much clearer. I begin singing a wonderful timeless hymn:

Since my eyes were fixed on Jesus.
I've lost sight of all beside.
So enchained my Spirit's vision.
Looking at the crucified.

I will begin this new year by taking my mirror off the wall and giving it to my King. Maybe there is someone I can love for Jesus today.

"Mirror, mirror off the wall.
Help me resemble the Fairest of them all!”

Camel Lot

Today, December 30, 2009, our only son John Drake proposed to Natasha Stamman and she accepted. They took a sleigh ride in a restored antique cutter which was used years ago by another young couple in their courting days. The wedding is scheduled to be in early spring 2010. As I watched the excitement on John and Natasha's face I couldn't help but reflect back on this past two years. So much history has happened to our family during this time, we can hardly catch our breath. On June 12, 2008, John gave his daddy the gift of life when he gave Paul a kidney on Father's Day weekend. Then, one month to the day later, our firstborn Rachel Michelle wed Mr. Wilmer Nolt. You can imagine the emotions we all felt when Paul walked our daughter down the church aisle. Then, on August 9, 2008, our second daughter Rebekah married Mr. Zacariah Fox. Our eyes filled with tears again when Paul walked Beka down that same aisle. Our baby daughter Libby married Mr. Isaac Wendland on June 27, 2009. By this time Paul had three hospitalizations since his transplant. So, once again when he appeared at the back of the church to walk our baby girl down that familiar aisle.... we were swirling with so many emotions. On September 5th, Zach and Beka had their first child... a darling baby boy - Tristan Micaiah. Rachel and Wil are expecting our second grandson in March. If all this good news wasn't enough, now our only son will marry his sweetheart. God is sooooo good!

Life can be difficult, but God has been sooo kind to always allow joys to be on their way to us. The kidney transplant wasn't part of our plan for our lives, but just like Joseph in the Bible who found himself sold to a caravan of Midianites. He probably felt forsaken when he was thrown in that pit by his brothers, but God was directing the caravan. Whether they realized it or not they were being controlled by Divine providence. I hope I can always remember this. God knows where we are and He has perfect timing for our precise provision. Months ago He set the caravan in motion for us.

Get ready..... the caravans are coming......... and we will all be living in our own "Camel Lot." ;-)

Playmakers

My entire life I have been impressed by playmakers. You know who they are in your life. The ones who you can count on when the going gets tough. They say or do something that changes the whole atmosphere in a room. You can be in a volatile situation and these people show up or speak up and can diffuse the situation. They never become part of the problem, but very quickly are part of the solution. They may have a critical eye and can access a situation pretty quick, but they also have a keen sense of discovering solutions to offer to those "sticky" situations. Most playmakers are unsung heroes in our lives. We take them for granted in our early years, but as time goes by you find you cannot live without them. For all the playmakers in my life, I want to say THANK YOU! I hope each of you will take the time to thank the playmakers in your life. They make the journey here much sweeter and help you win at the game of life according to biblical principles.

Jiminy Crickett

In 1981, my husband Paul was youth pastor at a church in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. We had two beautiful children then and had just moved into a lovely three bedroom apartment, but then we felt the Lord was calling us to move to Floyd, Iowa, to pastor a struggling country church. We sat down and counted the cost. There would be a tremendous cut in salary. The tiny church could only pay $75 a week and the parsonage was nothing to be desired. In the natural, we would never have chosen to move to Floyd, but whenever we prayed, we both sensed a call from Heaven.

During one Wednesday evening service in Arkansas the Holy Spirit began to draw our hearts. I distinctly remember the Lord speaking in the depths of my soul and asking, "Will you go?"

I remember weeping and surrendering to His call. "Here am I, Lord, send me!"

The next day Paul and I sat down and had a heart-to-heart chat. He, too, had felt the same call. We prayed together and surrendered our lives to whatever God wanted. We would let Him choose the vineyard where He wanted us to labor in.

A few months later we were headed to the little village of Floyd, Iowa. Paul accepted the pastorate of the Gospel Lighthouse Church. We arrived on the last Sunday in August 1981. (Our oldest child Rachel was nearly three and our second child was nine months old. Our two youngest daughters hadn't even been born yet.)

The first Sunday morning Paul preached we had an attendance of 16. (Four of which were the Paul Phillips' family.) We were excited when a farmer and his wife responded to the altar call and gave their hearts to the Lord that first Sunday.

Every year the little flock grew, but there were financial challenges. I remember us praying for shoes for our little ones' feet and Jesus was so faithful to provide. We were learning to walk by faith and not by sight.

The Christmas of 1985, our oldest daughter Rachel had just turned seven. She had asked for a Crickett doll for Christmas. I went and priced one and was devastated when I realized there was no way we could buy the expensive doll. I remember crying and wondering if we should move to a bigger church, but when I knelt to pray I knew we were supposed to stay and be faithful in the lean years.

That Christmas there was no Crickett doll, but another dolly under the tree. Rachel seemed thrilled with her new doll, but I knew deep in her heart she really wanted the special Crickett doll.

Fast foward to this Christmas, twenty-four years later, God has been good to us during our 28 years of service. He has blessed the church above and beyond our wildest dreams and we no longer live in the old parsonage. God blessed us with another home. It was in this house, the home the Lord provided for us, where our family gathered tonight to celebrate our Lord's birth.

It was a full circle moment when Rachel opened her Christmas gift tonight. We bought her a Cricut machine. For all of you who scrapbook, you know the amazing designs this machine can make. Letters of beautiful fonts and adorable diecuts for special occasions. Rachel's eyes danced when she opened her gift and saw it was a Cricut machine. My heart skipped a beat, too, when I thought about how faithful the Lord has been to our little family. Rachel finally got her Cricut and after I thanked the Lord for His goodness all I could say was.... Jiminy Crickett!

Book Review

I was so excited to read Stephen Arterburn's new book Regret-Free Living. My husband and I have been in fulltime ministry for 30 years and involved in Christian education for the past 20 years. It's our hope to be proactive and help children and youth learn from mistakes and live a life for Jesus with as few regrets as possible.

I love Stephen Arterburn's writing style. His simplicity and transparency go right to the heart of the matter and he offers hope and freedom from unhealthy choices. Readers' spirits will open up as he shares from his own past mistakes and retraces his steps to finding spiritual and emotional health.

The book begins by enlightening the reader to the signs of an unhealthy relationship. Then he walks the reader through helpful healing steps, which will enable the reader to make peace with their past.

I highly recommend Regret-Free Living by Stephen Arterburn. His practical counsel guarantee to help those who are longing to turn from toxic relationships and begin building healthy relationships.

Christmas Memory

One of my Christmas memories can be found at this blog - http://www.myheartbelongs2books.blogspot.com/

Enjoy,
Dixie

Happy Wife Happy Life

Jim and Cathy Burns have written a book filled with "timeless truths" in their new book "Closer."

This inspirational devotional for couples is overflowing with wisdom and practical advice intended to draw couples closer together. There is something about their "down to earth" simplicity, coupled with the longevity of their own marriage, that resonates pure authenticity on every page.

My favorite chapter "Reactions Speak Louder than Words" will forever stick to my marriage ribs!

Our three daughters were married this past year and you can be sure they will be getting "Closer" for a Christmas gift this year.

If there was a button I could push for TEN STARS I would.

Jim and Cathy, I've never met you, but thank you for this much-needed resource.

Until next time,
Dixie

Beautiful Mess - The Story of Diamond Rio

Recently my husband heard Diamond Rio minister through testimony and song at a men's retreat in Lynchburg, Virginia. He was deeply moved by their testimony. So when I saw Diamond Rio had a new book Beautiful Mess, I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy.

I loved how Beautiful Mess devoted a chapter to each of the six band members. You get a real feel for their unique backgrounds and marvel how the grandson of a coal miner would be singing with the son of a cultured classical pianist.

When lead singer Marty Roe begins to struggle vocally, the band almost fell apart, but they all hunkered down and weathered the storm together. The loyalty they have for one another is sheer inspiration.

It has been said if you find your "mess," you will find your ministry. Diamond Rio found their beautiful mess and out of it has evolved a story of hope and forgiveness.

The book also offers what is known as Nelson Free, where you purchase the actual book and you have access to download the book for free as an audio book and an ebook.

If you enjoy inspirational stories, you will enjoy this book.

Win a Copy of "One Noble Journey'

Hey Y'all,
You can go here to try to win a copy of my children's book One Noble Journey.

http://myheartbelongs2books.blogspot.com/2009/12/one-noble-journey-by-dixie-phillips.html

Thanks,
Dixie

Another Review for One Noble Journey

Here's another review for One Noble Journey.
Enjoy,
Dixie

http://moziesme.blogspot.com/2009/12/review-one-noble-journey.html

The Princess and the Monkey Blog

There's a great review for One Noble Journey at the following webpage: http://kennedyandzach.blogspot.com/2009/12/one-noble-journey-by-dixie-phillips.html

Virtual Book Tour

My official Virtual Book Tour has begun. Be sure to check out One Noble Journey's review at http://jadaykennedy.blogspot.com/2009/12/book-review-of-one-noble-journey.html

Virtual Book Tour

Dec 1 http://jadaykennedy.blogspot.com/
Dec 2 http://jadaykennedy.blogspot.com/
Dec 2 http://kennedyandzach.blogspot.com/ The Princess and the Monkey
Dec 3 http://tbfreviews.net/ The Book Faery Reviews
Dec 4 http://moziesme.blogspot.com
Dec 7 http://childrensandteensbookconnection.wordpress.com/
Dec 8 http://jensbooktalk.blogspot.com/
Dec 9 http://therempels4.blogspot.com/ (A Mom after God’s Own Heart)
Dec 10 http://northernmama-northerngirl.blogspot.com/
Dec 11 http://snoringscholar.com/ Just Another Day of Catholic Pondering
Dec 14 http://www.broowaha.com/ will provide direct link later
Dec 15 http://myheartbelongs2books.blogspot.com/ 4 the Love of Books
Dec 16 http://myheartbelongs2books.blogspot.com/ 4 the Love of Books
Dec 16 http://homesweethomewritingchallenge.wordpress.com/

Another Story for GAP

I'm pleased to announce Lynda Burch from Guardian Angel Publishing has accepted The Cat Came Back. This is a story written by my friend Lucy Robbins and myself. Lucy and I are anxious to see who our illustrator will be. GAP has plenty of talented artists.

Thanks for all your support.

Writing for little ones,
Dixie

One Noble Journey Review

Just had a review for One Noble Journey.
I thought some of you might enjoy reading it.

www.jensbooktalk.blogspot.com/2009/11/review-one-noble-journey-dixie-phillips.html

Saluting Pastor Paul Phillips

Today my friend forwarded a Christian article for me to read. It was an inspirational military story, and as I was reading the piece, my eyes fell on these words.

Mission first.
Never accept defeat.
Never quit.
Never leave a fallen comrade.

I haven't been able to stop thinking about how these same principles could apply to the Christian life. For those in leadership, it is easy to become discouraged. I thought of my precious husband Paul and his years of faithfulness in the Lord's vineyard. He's never wavered from the heavenly "mission" God has called him to. He has faith for every soul the Lord sends through the doors of the Gospel Lighthouse Church in downtown Floyd, Iowa. He will not accept defeat over their soul.... no matter how indifferent they may seem to spiritual matters. He prays earnestly, continues to point them to Jesus, and believes for spiritual victories in each life.

Last year our son gave Paul a kidney. Never once did I hear him question God, mention quitting, or give into any discouragement in his soul. He continued to press on to know Jesus more and more in his weakened state as he die when he was strong and healthy.

And it is my dear husband, who is there to extend a hand of friendship to those who insist on going their own way,only to find as they travel down the wrong road stuck in a ditch. He never condemns or says, "I told you so!" He lovingly and humbly points them back to the Calvary Road.

Today I salute my honey. God couldn't have given me a better husband or pastor. I love you and am honored to be your bride of 32 years. I have grown more under your ministry than any other ministry.

Love you forever,
Dixie

Introducing Mayra Calvani and Humberto

I want to take this time to tell you about my new friend Mayra Calvani. She is a wonderful children's author and has an adorable book called Humberto, the Bookworm Hamster!

Humberto is an antisocial little hamster… he’s totally addicted to books! His neighbors, the squirrel, the rabbit, the skunk, the hedgehog and the beaver want to become his friends, but Humberto doesn’t have time for them. He’s too busy reading! Then one day, disaster strikes and he must choose between saving his books and helping his soon-to-be friends.

Available in print and ebook!

Find out more at: http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/humberto.htm

Visit the author's website at www.MayrasSecretBookcase.com or her blog at www.MayrasSecretBookcase.blogspot.com.

Great Review from Cheryl Malandrinos

Baby Jesus is Missing by Dixie Phillips


Dixie Phillips has written another Christian children’s book that will touch hearts and open minds. In Baby Jesus is Missing, Mommy and Daddy are all tied up with winning the neighborhood Christmas decorating contest, but young Josiah is worried about something else–Baby Jesus is missing from their wooden manager scene, and you can’t have Christmas without Jesus. What will they do?

I’ve quickly become a huge fan of Dixie Phillips, and every book I receive impresses me more than the last. In this heartwarming tale of the season, readers are reminded of the true meaning of Christmas through the innocence of a child. Josiah knows you can’t have Christmas without Jesus, and sets out to find the missng figure from their manager scene despite what Mommy and Daddy have deeemed as more important and even though he gets yelled at for interrupting his parents in their “important” work, teaching his parents a lesson in the process.

All of Phillips’ books can easily be coordinated into Sunday school curriculum, and I will certainly be using Baby Jesus is Missing with my class this year.

Award-winning artist K.C. Snider illustrated this book. She is very much in tune with authors’ stories and the messages they are trying to impart, so her illustrations are once again, a perfect compliment here.

An excellent book to sit down and read during Advent as your family prepares their hearts for Christmas, Baby Jesus is Missing will leave its impression on you and your children long after Christmas is over.

Reactions Speak Louder than Words

It seems like FOREVER since I have been able to sit down and blog about the happenings of my life. We found out this last week that our firstborn daughter Rachel and her husband Wil are having a baby boy in March. Paul and I were thrilled they invited us to see the ultrasound of our newest grandson. Our entire family is ecstatic.

Today I was thinking about my reactions to trials. Maybe this little quote will speak to you like it did me. Are you ready?

Reactions speak louder than words!

I don't think I even need to add my two cents. Hope it nourishes your soul like it did mine.

Until next time,
Dixie

Book Signings

Y'all are invited to The Way Christian Book Store in Story City on Saturday, November 14th from 1 - 3. I will have my two newest children's books available.
Hope to see some familiar faces there.
Dixie

My First Virtual Blog Tour Announced!

Announcing Dixie Phillips, Author of the Children’s Picture Book “One Noble Journey”, on Tour in Dec.
Posted on November 4, 2009 by pumpupyourbook
Join Dixie Phillips, author of the children’s picture book, One Noble Journey (Guardian Angel Publishing), as she virtually tours the blogosphere in December on her first virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book Promotion!


ABOUT DIXIE PHILLIPS:
Dixie Phillips began writing seasonal plays for children in 1987. These delightful programs have been published by Abingdon Press, Standard Publishing, Eldridge Publishing, Evangelizing Today’s Child and Gospel Publishing House. One of Dixie’s children’s books, Stubby’s Destiny, was awarded the 2008 Best Children’s Animal Story by Books and Authors. Guardian Angel Publishing has released Angel Eyes, One Noble Journey and Baby Jesus is Missing. Cinderfella and the Furry Godmother and Stilts the Stork will be released in 2010.

Dixie also has a passion for writing God’s truths for adults. She has contributed to an award-winning devotional book and has ghostwritten books on marriage, health, poetry and personal testimonies. She is currently a topical curriculum writer for Randall House. Dixie is a pastor’s wife of more than 30 years. She and her husband, Paul, have four grown children and have served the Gospel Lighthouse Church in Floyd, Iowa, for 28 years.

You can learn more about Dixie’s books and the Phillips’ ministry by visiting www.floydslighthouse.com.

ABOUT ONE NOBLE JOURNEY
Dixie Phillips has delivered another delightful tale in One Noble Journey. Two cultures collide in the tiny village of Westbury. An orphan girl from the lowlands, the daughter of a Count from the highlands and a baby raccoon will entertain the hearts of children of all ages. One Noble Journey is guaranteed to help shape small souls. Artist is Kim Sponaugle. This award winning duo, Dixie and Kim, teamed up again to produce another winner. Stubby’s Destiny won the Literary Award for Excellence Best of 2008 in the Children’s Animal Story category. Suggested age for readers 3-10.

EXCERPT:
The village of Westbury had two sides. The rich people lived in the highlands and the poor lived in the lowlands. Right in the middle sat Hannah’s Hope, a home for orphans. Perched high on the orphanage’s roof was a gold cross.

“Journey!” Bella called across the field of wild flowers. “Come and see what I’ve found.”

Journey looped her willow basket, full of fresh-picked flower petals, over her arm and trotted to her friend’s side. There in a ravine sat a baby raccoon nibbling on an ear of corn.

“I wonder where his mother is.” Bella inquired.

Journey knelt beside the tiny ball of fur and cooed. “I think he’s an orphan just like me.” She carefully picked him up and tucked him in her basket. “These petals will make a soft bed for him.”

Bella rubbed the tiny animal’s tummy and he began to purr like a kitten. “He’s sure a friendly little critter.” She grinned. “But he stole corn from our garden and Papa won’t like that one bit.”

The raccoon yawned and rubbed his eyes.

“The dark fur around his eyes looks like a mask.” Journey laughed. “Maybe we should call him – Bandit.”

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT ONE NOBLE JOURNEY!
“A powerful story of acceptance and forgiveness, One Noble Journey would make excellent Sunday school reading or the perfect bedtime story. I can’t wait to see what Phillips and Sponaugle come up with next!” – The Children’s and Teens’ Book Connection

Dixie Phillips’ ONE NOBLE JOURNEY VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR ‘09 will officially begin on Dec. 1st and end on Dec. 16th as part of Pump Up Your Book Promoti0n’s 12 Days of Christmas Virtual Book Tour Special. You can visit Dixie’s blog stops at www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com during the month of December to find out more about this great book and its talented author. If you would like to host Dixie, please contact Cheryl Malandrinos at cg20pm00@gmail.com before November 23rd.

Stubby's Review

Hi Y'all,
Stubby's Destiny just received a great review from a homeschooling mom. I thought you might enjoy reading it so I posted it below.
Dixie



Guardian Angel Publishing releases wonderful stories and educational books complete with beautiful illlustrations for the whole family. As part of this review I received Stubby’s Destiny, Earthquake and NO BONES ABOUT IT! The Sum of Our Parts Series to read and use with my girls.

The beautifully delicate illustrations of Stubby’s Destiny captured us immediately. The story has a Christian theme, but is the story’s message is appropriate for people of all faiths. The overall theme is that each person has a personal path, or destiny if you will, to follow. It encourages using our individual strengths and talents to lead us to our own personal greatness. When you combine the message with the lovely illustrations it is not surprising that this book is an award-winning one.

Stubby's Destiny Great Reviews

http://www.hs-wahm.com/science/guardian-angel-publishing-beautiful-books-with-a-purpose/comment-page-1#comment-642
Check out a homeschooling mom's review about Stubby's Destiny.

Baby Jesus is Missing has arrived!

Baby Jesus is Missing has arrived!

Baby Jesus is Missing has Arrived!

Baby Jesus is Missing has arrived and I couldn't be more pleased.

Access Bible Studies

Hey Y'all,

I've gotten behind on my blogging, but am hoping to get back on the "WRITE" track soon. It's not that I haven't been writing. I've been busy with writing assignments and am excited to announce for the past year I have been part of a team of writers for Randall House's new downloadable Bible studies. They are now available at www.accessbiblestudies.com If you get a chance, stop over and look at all the wonderful selections. There's some "soul food" there for sure.

Also, just attached a picture of our new grandson Tristan. He's six weeks old now.

Toodles,
Dixie

"One Noble Journey" Review

Just received a review at http://thekidsbookconnection.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/one-noble-journey-by-dixie-phillips/
Dixie Phillips returns with her latest book from Guardian Angel Publishing, One Noble Journey. Part of the Wings of Faith collection from GAP, this book tells the story of two best friends, one the daughter of a Count and the other an orphan girl from the lowlands. When the Count’s gold pocket watch is stolen, he’s certain the lowlander is responsible. With the help of a baby raccoon and a special landmark, everyone learns an important lesson.

I was so thrilled when I received One Noble Journey in the mail. Phillips has the ability to get right to the heart of the matter and always turns out a delightful story with a special message for young readers. In this book, two cultures collide when Bella, a rich girl from the highlands, and her best friend, an orphan girl named Journey, discover a baby raccoon in the forest. Phillips captures the natural ability of children to accept others in such a wonderful way by pairing up these two girls from different worlds. The raccoon that they name Bandit, provides the perfect vehicle for the conflict and his actions bring about an enjoyable conclusion to Bella and Journey’s story. And the work of Kim Sponaugle truly shines with these beautiful illustrations.

A powerful story of acceptance and forgiveness, One Noble Journey would make excellent Sunday school reading or the perfect bedtime story. I can’t wait to see what Phillips and Sponaugle come up with next!

Grandparent's Luncheon

I haven't had much time to blog, but hopefully will be getting back in the swing of things in the next few weeks. Paul and I will be attending our first grandparent's luncheon tomorrow because we are now grandparents. :-)

Isn't he cute?

Our First Grandbaby - Tristan Micaiah Fox

Our Grandbaby has Arrived

Tristan Micaiah Fox arrived Saturday afternoon. Our prized pup weighed in at 8 pounds 10 1/2 ounces and was 22 inches long. Mommy, Daddy and Baby T are doing fine.
Papaw Paul and Grandma Dixie are excited to join the "Grandparent's Club."

We have another grandbaby on the way in March. Can't wait....

Shaping Small Souls

After school today one of our students snatched up a copy of "One Noble Journey" and began reading it. I happen to have my camera with me. Nothing could please me more than to have my stories shape small souls for Jesus.

One Noble Journey is Here

I am pleased to announce...........

Drum roll please....

**Ta da **

One Noble Journey is finally here. I am sooooo excited. Kim Sponaugle's colorful illustrations are simply divine. One Noble Journey is tale about two vastly different cultures...... The highlands and the lowlands.... Faith devours fear when Journey, the "shero" in the story discovers the ground is level at the foot of the Cross.


I will be giving all the proceeds from the sale of "Angel Eyes," "Stubby's Destiny" and "One Noble Journey" from now to September 15th to the Hazel Leora Meyer Scholarship. "Grandma Meyer's" scholarship will be awarded to a deserving child for their tuition at Lighthouse Academy for the 2009-2010 school year. Let me know if you want to buy a book or two. :-)

Legacy

Tonight our family is on the verge of something quite spectacular. A brand new baby boy will be joining our ranks. So far his name is Tristan Micaiah Fox, that is unless when his mommy and daddy take a peek at him, they decide he doesn't look like a Tristan.

This change in our family means I will become a grandmother. I'm so looking forward to this new era of my life. My grandmothers, both maternal and paternal, were instrumental in shaping my values and Christian experience. I can't imagine what my life would have been without them. They both have been in Heaven now for about ten years. You would think as time went by I would think of them less and their influence would somewhat diminish in my life, but instead I have discovered "though they are dead, yet they speak."

I find their influence in simple everyday experiences like when I am rummaging through my recipe box. This past year when my husband was facing a kidney transplant, I knew they would counsel me to find my strength and courage through prayer and my faith in God.

I pray I can leave a legacy to Tristan like my grandmothers left to me. Neither had portfolios or massive worldly assets, but I am confident that gold ran through their veins. Some days I pinch myself to think I was allowed to be their granddaughter. Because of their love and influence, I feel like I was born to royalty.

To all of your grandmas out there....... I salute you. May you leave "footprints" in the souls of each one of your grandchildren like my grandmas did mine.

Our Babies are having Babies....

Last year we had two wedding in our family. Our oldest daughter Rachel married Mr. Wil Nolt on July 12th and our 3rd child Beka married Mr. Zach Fox on August 9th. Well, you've heard the old rhyme... First, comes love.... Then, comes marriage..... Well, now both of our daughters are expecting. Beka is due any day and Rachel is due in March.

This circle of life is even more precious to us because of my husband's kidney transplant last year. (Yes, you read that right.... 2 weddings and a kidney transplant in the same summer...)

Today I kept thinking how blessed we were to have my husband Paul still with us. He will be able to know and love on our grandbabies because our son John sacrifically gave his father the gift of life.

I guess today, as we wait for our grandson to arrive, I am counting my blessings and thanking the Lord for His faithfulness.

Can God? God can!
Will God? God will!
Does God care? God does care!

And then this summer our baby daughter Libby married Mr. Isaac Wendland.

Oh, how could I ever complain again. (Remind me when my flesh starts rising up...)

We have soooo much to thank HIM for.....

Counting my blessings,
Dixie

Five Generations for Jesus

This is a picture of my great-grandmother Ada Stillion, my grandma Hazel Meyer, my mother Bonnie, me and our oldest daughter Rachel when she was about a year old.

Grandma Ada came to Jesus in her forties....... Her decision has affected five generations in our family and now Rachel is expecting a baby. Little did my great-grandmother realize the impact her choice would make on our family.......

One woman....... one choice........

Amazing........

One Noble Journey

Drum roll pluhhhhhease......
****** TA DA*************
It's official...
"One Noble Journey" will be available this month.
I'm soooo excited.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

Our baby girl, the youngest of four, was married last month. We received her wedding photos yesterday and were reminded of all the emotions we were flooded with on her wedding day. I thought this picture says it best.

Dixie

Going Under for the Lord

Last night we had a baptismal service. Six precious souls went "under" for the Lord.
I thought some of you might enjoy seeing some of the pictures.

I'm still singing "They Baptized Jesse Taylor." :-)

Dixie

Final Illustration for "Baby Jesus is Missing" completed!

Drum roll please..... **TADA**

I am proud to announce the talented K.C. Snider has finished the illustrations for "Baby Jesus is Missing." This delightful Christmas story will be available very soon. God has been soooo good to me.

Our Baby Girl is Married.....

One More Illustration

K.C. keeps cranking out the illustrations for my newest children's book "Baby Jesus is Missing." I'm so excited I just have to share them with y'all.

Dixie

Another Illustration

Another illustration from "Baby Jesus is Missing...."
Dixie

Baby Jesus is Missing

Baby Jesus is Missing will be available this fall. I'm so excited for y'all to see the cover.

Also, One Noble Journey will also be available this fall.

I can't wait...
Dixie

Decisions

This week I've made a new friend named Carol. She's the one I'm giving a big hug to in the above picture. Carol has just come to know Jesus in the past few months. Her life has not been easy. Alcoholism has attempted to destroy her and her family, but JESUS passed by and Carol has accepted the GOOD NEWS of JESUS CHRIST. Her decision has impacted her daughters and granddaughters. They are in the above picture.

While on the Rosebud Reservation we had a ladies' tea party. Carol, her two daughters and granddaughters came. I couldn't help but think of my great-grandmother who was bound by sin. Not only was she an alcoholic, but a bootlegger, but JESUS passed by. Her decision to follow Christ has affected five generations. My great-grandmother, my grandmother, my mother, myself and my children.

I believe Carol's decision to follow JESUS will also affect her future generations.

The chains are gone....
I've been set free

Please pray for my new friend Carol and her family.