This is your Life (Are you who you want to be?)

July 5th 2010

2010-07-05T07:32:00.012-05:00

Enjoyed celebrating our independence yesterday and I am excited to have today off as a paid Holiday! We really do live in a wonderful county. I have some fun pictures of our celebration yesterday. As you can see the Red, White and Blue theme was the choice of attire for everyone.

I am thankful for my family. I pray that they have the assurance of salvation, but I really don't know. (which is probably my answer)

We played BINGO and FARKLE after our delicious Lunch. Good TImes!

Sweet little Caroline is a joy to get to see. We read a book outside on th porch and then drew with some sidewalk chalk.

John biked home even though it was a very HOT day.

A Cherokee Legend

2009-03-17T11:54:00.002-05:00

A Cherokee Legend (not sure of the origin of this but I thought it was cool)

A Cherokee Legend

2009-03-17T11:38:00.001-05:00

Do you know the legend of the Cherokee Indian youth's rite of passage? His father takes him into the forest, blindfolds him and leaves him alone. He is required to sit on a stump the whole night and not remove the blindfold until the rays of the morning sun shine through it. He cannot cry out for help to anyone. Once he survives the night, he is a MAN.
He cannot tell the other boys of this experience, because each lad must come into manhood on his own. The boy is naturally terrified. He can hear all kinds of noises. Wild beasts must surely be all around him. Maybe even some human might do him harm. The wind blew the grass and earth, and shook his stump, but he sat stoically, never removing the blindfold. It would be the only way he could become a man!
Finally, after a horrific night the sun appeared and he removed his blindfold.
It was then that he discovered his father sitting on the stump next to him. He had been at watch the entire night, protecting his son from harm..
We, too, are never alone. Even when we don't know it, God is watching over us, sitting on the stump beside us. When trouble comes, all we have to do is reach out to Him.

Moral of the story:
Just because you can't see God, doesn't mean He is not there.
'For we walk by faith, not by sight.'

2009-03-16T23:21:00.003-05:00

The video below is our Ruby Red Charmers group doing AD Libb. Sorry that the picture is so dark you can't see it, but it really is funny to listen to. You can hear me trying so hard to not laugh. It was so much fun.

2009-03-16T23:20:00.001-05:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

A fun way to kill time

2008-09-04T07:40:00.002-05:00

Egg Run

Collect the twig and get to the base of the ladder.

Play this free game now!!

Aiden's first Birthday

2008-06-30T07:08:00.002-05:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

2008-05-02T23:19:00.004-05:00

Here is a cute picture I took of Samantha and Katie over the weekend. Looks like future Red hat society members if you ask me.

Aww what a wonderful thing to wake up and find a nice check deposited into your account over night. I am using mind for my vacation this summer. I can't wait, yet I don't want to wish time away so I will enjoy spring and try to save that money to stimulate the economy in August.

copter flying

2008-04-01T09:01:00.006-05:00

If you are looking for some mindless time filler check out this web site. http://www.hurtwood.demon.co.uk/Fun/copter.swf

My high score is 1415 which isn't anything to brag about, and my average is probably 750 Have fun and leave me a comment on your high score.
And that is what inspires me to smile!

A web site worthy of a bookmark!

2008-03-27T11:53:00.002-05:00

I have been following Greg Stier's site for a few weeks now and find it is filled with great stuff. Some of it is very funny, some is heavy and makes me think, most of it is like food that helps to feed my soul. Check it out www.gregstier.org
And that is what inspires me smile.

Aiden 9 months

2008-03-18T21:52:00.005-05:00

We had a enjoyable weekend with Aiden visiting. He is a little flirt always smiling and happy. He sure loves his Aunt Samantha. He is crawling and pulling himself up. Got to love him!
And that is what inspires me to smile.

Time to trade the gas guzzler in

2008-03-13T06:40:00.004-05:00

It was time to make the big decision ,keep the 2005 Kia Sportage that was paid in full, but got terrible gas milage on city driving (which is where I work). Or Trade it in while It was still fairly new and worth something for a more fuel effient car. The last think I wanted was a car payment. What to do What to do?? I was nice to have a 4X drive vechical, but it doesn't snow much anymore. I was nice to have room to haul things, but could we find that in a more fuel efficient car? Time to go out and see. Our internet research lead us to Eisenhauer Nissian in Wernersville. We drove a 2007 dodge Caliber and after talking with the salesmen who seemed to want to work with us, the decison was made. Time to trade.
Meet our new 2007 Dodge Caliber. This car is sweet, and that is from someone who isn't that into cars. Heated leather seats, chill zone for beverages, cvt transmission, 2.7 liter. Everything we were looking for it still have storage room in the back and has power, but it is very fuel effient esp. on city driving with the transmission that doesn't change gears. And the best thing It was all but an even trade. If you are lookiing for a car see Dan Hassler at Eisenhauer Nissian, we enjoyed working with him.

That is what inspires me to smile.

food for thought

2008-03-13T06:38:00.000-05:00

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
--Galatians 5:22-23

One evening, an older Cherokee Indian told his grandson about a terrible battle inside every person. He said, “My son, the battle is between two wolves inside of us all. One is evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, lies, pride, and superiority.”

His grandson asked, “What is the other wolf?”

The elderly man said, “It is good?peace, joy, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith.”

The man’s young grandson thought for a moment and then asked, “Which wolf wins?”

The wise Cherokee man replied, “The one you feed the most.”

Sure doesn't feel like Fall yet!

2007-10-07T21:06:00.000-05:00

With another wonderful warm and sunny weekend behind us, I finally have time to add to my blog. Where did September go? Maybe because I had Bronchitis for the entire month, or maybe because the weather stayed so warm,but for some reason I have had time to write on my blog.

Today during Sunday school, I took the senior high teens to visit a elderly shut in lady that lives with-in a mile of our church. It was a blessing to me to see the teens go and try to minister to this dear lady that is under Hospice care. I pray that God will use to bless all involved.

Also this weekend we were blessed to have Tony, Jackie and Aiden come down to visit. Aiden is 3 1/2 months old already and as cute as can be. It was so easy to get him to smile and laugh. He certainly is a happy little boy! Check out these pictures of how cute he is!

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

And that is why I am Inspired to smile!

Myspace

2007-08-27T20:41:00.000-05:00

Find me on MySpace and be my friend!

Ok I broke down and signed up for a myspace account. I know I know I always said I didn't like myspace, and I still don't like the advertisements they pop up all over that site. But the truth be told I love taking pictures and sharing them and this myspace is a great way to do just that. So I hope I can be a light in the darkness of myspace.

Speaking of pictures I got a new camera to take along on our cruise (7 days until we set sail) and the camera came today. Here are the first two pictures that I took.

And that is what inspires me to smile!

Church Summer Picnic

2007-08-25T21:24:00.000-05:00

This evening we had our annual Summer church picnic. It was hosted at the Lewis home. They are great host who often have the youth group over also, since they have a lovely in-ground swimming pool it was the perfect location on this very very hot and humid August day.
There was plenty of good food and fellowship, along with lots of fun, check out these pictures and see why I am inspired to SMILE!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

2007-08-12T22:02:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone! Today after church we presented information on our mission trip. I wish everyone could have came to see it. We just absolutely had a fantastic trip. Click the picture link to view a summery slideshow of our time in Patillas Puerto Rico. And again for our friends that sent in money to help support us, THANK YOU! Friends and Family like you are what inspires us to SMILE! PICTURE LINK

Miller Family Picnic

2007-08-05T20:31:00.000-05:00

Heading to the Miller / Gaffey Family Reunion.

Saturday was the Miller family picnic. There was quite a crowd there, and talk about good food Yummy!!!!

Also all the brothers bring out their classic cars for a show and shine. Check out these nice cars.

Ayden the youngest Miller in attendence slept through the whole thing.
And that is what inspires me to smile!

Celebrating Dennis' 42nd Birthday

2007-08-03T23:12:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we celebrated Dennis' birthday at Ruby Tuesdays! Our favorite restaurant. It is so nice to grow old with someone you love so very much. I think one of the hardest things for me on the Mission trip was sleeping in separate dorms from Dennis. I wasn't even thinking ahead of time that it would bother me, but it did. There was so much excitement all day long and I really missed having someone to talk to about it at the end of the day. We did meet in the morning and go across the street for breakfast at the bakery/deli. There we were able to talk and discuss the things of the day before. I diffinitely would say my love for Dennis has grown through the entire mission trip process. My love for God increased on the trip too, because of the opposite situation. God was with me through the entire trip and I can remember asking for help, laughing and thanking him for the children he brought to the VBS, and Asking for help when things seemed out of our hands. It is wonderful to have a God who cares and is there to care about even the little things in life.

And that is why I am inspired to smile!

We arrived home exhausted but also Blessed

2007-07-30T22:58:00.000-05:00

We touched down Sunday night exhausted, but feeling O so blessed to have spent a week in Patillas. We all have so a deep love and respect for the Westerband family. They were fantastic host. They work tirelessly with the people of Patillas. Spreading God's word to the people there, that don't have a saving Knowledge of Christ' love. What Generous, kind loving people.

Well my eyelids are going closed so I will share more pictures later.
And that is what inspires me to SMILE!

We are packed and ready!

2007-07-21T22:22:00.000-05:00

We are packed and ready to head to bed for a Good nights sleep before we leave for Puerto Rico. We have been praying and looking forward to this Mission Trip since we first found out we were going to have this opportunity. Thanks again to ALL our friends and family who gave to generously so we could be part of this Trip! We ask you to pray for us each day we are gone and that God will open doors for us to show HIS LOVE to the Children who attend the VBS program in Patillas PR.
And that is why I am inspired to smile!

This fun to do!

2007-07-15T18:55:00.000-05:00

This was my outcome of this fun quiz... go ahead and try it, then leave me a comment on what you are!

I'm a Nissan 350Z!

You're not the fastest or the most agile, but you have style and power. You believe in looking good and moving quickly -- without breaking the bank.

"Click here to Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.

I.P.O.D.S Serve evening meal at WSRM

2007-06-30T19:07:00.000-05:00

Today my small Group Girls the I.P.O.D.S (Incredible Power over Darkness) went to serve the evening meal at Water Street Resscue Mission.

What a blessing it was to serve the Lord by serving others. I really enjoyed the contact we made with the men and women we served. Everyone was very appreciative and some even asked what church we were from and thanked us for coming.

And that is what Inspired me to SMile!

Now appearing "The Two Chalupas" LIVE!

2007-06-28T18:15:00.001-05:00

Dean you and Den look like you're ready for a night at Taco Bell!

Or are you two the new entertainment at "Carlos and Charlies"?

And that is what inspires me to smile!

Pure JOY

2007-06-25T22:24:00.001-05:00

Caroline enjoying her slide. I love the look of pure JOY on her face!
That is what inspires me to smile!

Celebrating Samantha's Birthday

2007-06-23T21:34:00.000-05:00

This weekend we celebrated Samantha's 11th Birthday. It is so hard to believe that she was 4 years old when I first met her. She is growing up to be such a fun and sweet young lady.
Friday night our friend Katelynn went with Dennis, Samantha and myself to see "Thoroughly Modern Millie" at the Fulton. We loved it.
Then on Saturday we went to Gettysburg and to the Boyd's Bear Country Store. It is a fun place to go if you are a stuff animal lover. Samantha adopted a little white bear and named her Jamie Zoe Miller.
On the way home we stopped at Cheeseburger in Paradise and had a fun meal together. So far this weekend has been so much fun and we still have another day to go.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

And that is why I am inspired to smile!

Another willing friend!

2007-06-23T21:23:00.001-05:00

Ahhh Another friend willing to let me live out my unfulfilled dream of being a hairdresser!

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

And that is what inspired me to smile!

Good News

2007-06-20T21:19:00.000-05:00

Have you heard the good news? As of 3:35 today Dennis and I are Grandparents! Ayden Anthony Michael Miller was born in the Reading Hospital. He weighed 7lbs 5oz, and is 20 inches long. Check out these beautiful pictures and see why Dennis and I are both inspired to smile!

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Josh's Graduation Party

2007-06-19T22:08:00.001-05:00

Josh Miller's Graduation Party! Dennis having fun with the table decorations
Our hard working soda bar tenders for the evening
ok I know we look silly, but there were hats hanging from the ceiling... of course we had to stand under them!Den's brother Bob, wife Kelly, with children Josh and Erin

Jackie's and Tony's babyshower

2007-06-05T22:35:00.000-05:00

Sunday was a surprise baby shower for Jackie and Tony. It was really nice to meet her parents and friends. I am getting very anxious for the baby to come into this world!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

And that is what inspires me to smile!

Memorial Day Celebration

2007-06-05T21:57:00.000-05:00

On Monday Memorial day our family all got together at my sister's house for a celebration. It was sort of a combo celebration. Ali placing in States, Ali's Birthday,My mom's birthday, Barry's birthday and of course Memorial Day! Cheryl always knows how to throw a good party (she is a great cook and not afraid to try new recipes)

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

AND That is what inspires me to SMILE!

Ali Goes to States!

2007-05-26T22:35:00.000-05:00

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

And that is what inspires me to SMILE!

All the way to STATES!

2007-05-26T22:28:00.000-05:00

Barnstormers

2007-05-24T20:31:00.001-05:00

Ok So the Barnstormers aren't having such a great season so far this year, but I still think it is so much fun to go to the games and watch them play. Luckily when we were there this past Saturday evening they won 15-5. Big D, Samantha, Dennis and I all attended the game, thank goodness the rain decided to hold off. DentalEZ held their company picnic there and we had a great time.

Oh and we all got free Baseball caps! And that is what inspires me to smile!

Special people

2007-05-24T20:25:00.000-05:00

Sometimes God brings special people into our lives. These girls are a good example.

They worked hard all school year and met all the criteria for the Jr. National Honor Society. I am so proud of both of them. I was glad to be there to see them receive their honor certificates.

Enjoying a spring Saturday afternoon

2007-05-24T20:11:00.000-05:00

Sometimes the most fun can be had staying at home and just playing! We bought this silly giant foam frisbee and had so much fun just throwing it back and forth between Samantha, Dennis and myself. Big D even got in on the fun for a little.

And that is what inspires me to smile!

YOUTHQUAKE

2007-05-10T05:45:00.000-05:00

Dennis and I have the great privilege of working with the teens at Colerain Baptist. I might have mentioned before that the youth group's name is YouthQuake. These are 7-12 grade teens from the southern end of the county. I love these students, and just think each and everyone are awesome teens. Check out this picture from our teen room at church, and see why I am inspired to smile,I know you will be inspired to smile too!

Cinco de Mayo

2007-05-06T21:45:00.000-05:00

YouthQuake leaders had the first ever Cinco de Mayo party for the parents of the teens that attend YouthQuake. It was a fun evening with a Mexican theme. We had Taco's, rice, salsa & chips, toppings, corn bread and homemade Mexican Cookies! Who says parents don't like to play games! We played Cinco de Mayo BINGO and Mexican Hat Musical chairs. We even had a Sponge Bob Pinata. We closed the evening by telling the parents how much we love working with the teens, How burdened we are to see them continue to grow in their faith and not let the world snatch them away, and to share our vision for the teen ministry for the coming months. It was encouraging to hear some positive feedback from the parents too.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Over all it was a great evening. And that is why I am inspired to smile!

Enjoying a Nice Spring Day!

2007-05-01T21:28:00.000-05:00

Hogan enjoys the nice spring weather after a cold wet winter!
And that is what inspires me to smile!

Annual Red Hat convention!

2007-04-24T20:21:00.000-05:00

This past weekend three other ladies and myself went to our second annual Red Hat convention. It was a fun and busy weekend in Harrisburg. There were hundreds of Red Hat Ladies there including a dozen or so Pink Hat ladies. The Food was fantastic, Shopping was fun and the entertainment was great. Oh and by the way the theme was the ROARING TWENTIES!

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

And that is what inspires me to SMILE!

Happy Birthday Alan!

2007-04-19T22:21:00.000-05:00

What a surprise awaited Alan this AM when he opened his office door! I'll let the picture tell the story! There were a couple hundred balloons in there! (not to mention the blow up monkey sitting at his desk! And that is why I am inspired to smile!

Resurrection Day

2007-04-12T06:40:00.000-05:00

Easter Morning! Heading to Church. followed by Easter dinner at Mom's

Believe

2007-04-05T12:29:00.000-05:00

Even though you can't see Him, GOD is there for you!

There's nothing like ending the day with a "Happy Ending"

2007-03-30T21:51:00.000-05:00

Ahhh How I love Fridays! The last day of the work week, just anticipating the start of the weekend. Thinking of time to spend with my husband and family, yeah that makes the week worth it. Today was a busy Day for Dennis and I, but it had a "Happy Ending"! I'll let the pictures tell the rest of the story.

And that is what inspires me to smile!

2007-03-24T22:34:00.000-05:00

Today was another busy Saturday. It started off with taking Samantha to church to watch the AWANA Grand Prix. It was fun to watch the races and see the kids get the different trophies from fastest, most creative, etc. Then on to the best part of this annual event. Free hot dogs and homemade milk shakes. Our Teens from Youthquake help a couple from our church who are dairy farmers run the kitchen for this event every year.
Around 12:30 five of the girls from my small group in youth group headed for the mall. We had a great time being silly and even met two new friends. You will see who I mean when you watch the montage.

Photo and video editing at onetruemedia.com

Sandfantasy art

2007-03-20T07:13:00.000-05:00

My mom sent a E-mail to me that had this link in it. I was fascinated by the clip and went to the web site and found more clips there that show demo's of this person's art. Being someone that can't even draw stick figures very well, I am always impressed with someone that has a artistic gift. Check these links out and see why I am inspired to smile!
http://www.sandfantasy.com/videoclips/just_imagine_long.wmv
http://www.sandfantasy.com/videoclips/videoclips.htm

2007-03-17T09:11:00.000-05:00

Caroline is on the move!

2007-03-11T22:15:00.000-05:00

Today we had our monthly family dinner at my mother's house. Not only is it a great time to get together and have her fantastic cooking, but it is a time when we all get to see each other and catch up on what is new. Well the newest thing this Sunday was that little Caroline is now walking. Check out this video and I know you will be inspired to smile just like I am.

Make an on-line slideshow at onetruemedia.com

The Good ole Days!

2007-03-08T22:59:00.000-05:00

Cheryl and me sledding. Feb. 1966
This memory inspires me to smile!

Hogan goes on a adventure!

2007-03-08T22:18:00.000-05:00

It was last Friday night March 2nd that this little adventure took place. Dennis and I had joined up with our youth and leaders from our church to go to a weekend retreat. My oldest son Randy volunteered to watch Hogan and Tucker for us while we were away.
We had just finished midnight room checks and were drifting into a sound sleep when I heard my cell phone ringing. When I answered Randy said to me Mom the worse thing has happened! My first thought was that our house had burnt down. But he quickly told me that Hogan had broke the leash and ran off while Randy was out walking him.
Randy apparently had been trying to catch him for a good 45 minutes, when a man stopped for him to use his cell phone to call us. I could tell Randy was ready to give up. We felt so helpless because we didn't have any way of traveling home to help. I quickly told Randy to keep trying to catch him and that I would call for someone to try to help him. Well my dear brother-in-law was to unlucky one to get the call from me asking to get out of his warm bed and go and help find our run away dog. What a good guy he was to agree to help. I owe him and my sister big time. Meanwhile we call Dan our younger son to come pick up Dennis from the retreat and take him home to help in the search. Dan also was asleep when we called. So let me catch you up to speed. Dennis is in the truck with Dan getting ready to leave Harrisburg to head from home, Cheryl and John are heading over to our house to help and I get a phone call from Randy that he has the dog home and back in his kennel!
I quickly called Dan to bring Dennis back, got hold of John & Cheryl, but they were already up at our house, and called Randy back to profusely thank him for getting the dog home. It all seemed like A bad dream. Thinking back on it now, I can say I am inspired to smile but at the time I just wanted to go back to sleep!

IMPACT Youth Retreat

2007-03-04T23:17:00.000-05:00

Make an on-line slideshow at onetruemedia.com

Friday Dennis and I left on a bus headed to Harrisburg with 28 others from our church for a IMPACT retreat in Harrisburg PA. There were 6 leaders and 24 Teens. This is the third year that Dennis and I have went along on this trip. It is something we as a youth group look forward to every year.
The speaker was Awesome. His name is Bob Lentz. He had a great message at all four of the main sessions. Some of his main points were as follows: We can not get to Heaven by 1) GE being Good Enough, 2)RR religious road or by 3)KIA Know it all (thinking we know it all about the BIBLE) we can only get to Heaven by: BGTF By Grace Through Faith
He really challenged the teens that they can make a difference. If they are CCC Compassionate,Courageous & Committed.
This was the second year for the Aaron Pelsue Band. You can listen to them on the slide show.
Saturday afternoon some of us took a walk across the Susquehanna River on the footbridge. There was a lot of ice floating down the river. It was nice weather and a lot of people were out walking. We went to City Island and then headed back to the retreat.
Some of our group dressed up on Saturday evening and went door to door at our hotel (the Hilton) Trick or Treating. There were several teams and a competition going on to see who could get the most food given to them. It was interesting to see what they brought back, even a piece of pizza!
Well it was a long and blessed weekend and I am heading to bed now. I can't wait to blog tomorrow and tell you what happened at home while we were away!
And that is what inspires me to SMILE!

Yeah tonight we had fun with the Shaeffers!

2007-02-24T23:01:00.000-05:00

Dennis & I have two dear friends who unfortunately we don't get to see near enough, Michelle and Dean. OK, OK I know I work with Michelle, but I rarely get to see her at work, and when I do it is for minutes usually talking work stuff. The Shaeffers have a great blog spot called "Fun with the Shaeffers". I often read the fun things they are doing and Suggested to Michelle that it was time for the Millers to have some fun with the Shaeffers. So what could be more fun then to go out and eat! We ate at Applebee's. I followed my diet and choose a Sandwich off their Weight Watchers section of the menu. Although I have to admit the steak and mashed potatoes that Dennis had looked very, very Good!

We then came back to our house and watched a DVD that they brought with them. It was called "Big Fish" I really liked it. We heard a few snores from Dennis but that was understandable since he had gotten up at 5 AM to help cook for a men's breakfast at church. Then when that movie got over, we saw that the movie RV was on TV so we watched the end of it too. We had a great time tonight. We need to do this more often.

And that is what inspires me to SMILE!

Future Nurse Lindsey

2007-02-17T11:21:00.000-05:00

My Niece Lindsey in her first Official Nursing Uniform! Who says you can't have brains and Beauty! Way to go Lindsey

And that is what inspires me to Smile! : )

Such a cute Valentine!

2007-02-13T18:30:00.000-05:00

Caroline You Definitely inspire me to smile!

Yeah It's Snowing

2007-02-13T18:17:00.000-05:00

Today I sat at work watching the snow come down. Around 11 I was releaved to see that the roads were only wet. Driving home at 4:30 I felt like I was crawling along with everyone being careful. I finally arrived home and took Tucker out for his first measurable snow rump. And boy was he loving it! He was running around like a Nut! At least someone in our house likes snow because I'm not a big fan myself!

And that is what inspires me to smile!

Sister's in Christ

2007-02-05T22:52:00.000-05:00

Speakers at Sisters in Christ

This was my second year attending the Sisters in Christ meeting. I was so excited that my mom attended with me, along with about 30 other women from our church. It was a great evening singing with the worship band and listening to God speak through Women from the southern end of Lancaster that formed the Sisters in Christ meeting about 7 years ago. There are a few things that I learnt there this year. #1 YIELD = Your Inner Ego Laid Down Wow what a great Acrostic. #2 We need to start our day with time in God's word. Before we get sidetracked with the chores that await us. And #3 We need to faithfully pray for each other. By this I mean A deeper prayer time then what I have been doing. If we practice these things We can be a light in Lancaster County for God.

And that is what inspires me to smile!

A Piece of Miller Family History

2007-02-03T09:57:00.000-05:00

Den's mom at the approximate age of 17

Betty Miller (current)

While attending a funeral, on my husband's side of the family, this week His aunt shared some pictures she had found. These pictures were mostly of other relatives of Dennis' that have previously passed away. But there on the bottom of the pile was this gorgeous picture of Dennis' mother. The look on her face when she saw this photo again was something I will always remember. You could tell it took her right back to the day it was taken. She enjoyed showing it to people, hearing their comments about what a great picture it was. I enjoyed seeing her face light up. She is a dear women who has raised 7 children and lives everyday to be a witness to others of God's great love. We as children don't always get to see a glimpse back into our parents youth. We always hear stories, but when you find a wonderful picture it brings the stories to life.

Betty Miller today you are what inspires me to smile!

Today is my Birthday!

2007-01-30T22:31:00.000-05:00

Wow What a great day I had today. You know how it is, you always want you birthday to be some kind of special day, Well mine actually was. Although I have done some pretty great things in the past on January 30th. Like Land in Germany in 1999 for a once in a life time Experience, or set up my new apartment in 2000 because the day before I had moved out and was starting my new life. Even though today might have seemed normal to anyone looking, it was actually what I have been searching and longing for all these years. To spend it with the man I love so very dearly and know that I am loved for who I am.

We had a wonderful dinner at Olive Garden and then went home and watched a movie in the sofa in front of the fire, while it flurried outside. HMMMM Life is good!
And that is what inspires me to smile!

2nd Annual Family Fun Night

2007-01-27T23:44:00.000-05:00

Make an online slide show at onetruemedia.com

Tonight our Youth Group hosted it's 2nd annual family fun night. This is a Varity show that the teens in our youth group put on to help raise funds to go to the IMPACT retreat. We did our version of Deal or no Deal, filled with funny commercials and then we did Kirkwood Idol tryouts. It was a very funny night filled with lots of laughter and fun. Thanks to all who did such a great job especially our youth director and her husband for writing and directing the skits.

Forwarded E-mail

2007-01-25T22:53:00.000-05:00

I don't know about the rest of you, but I am sometimes amazed at the things that are on the web. For example some of those forwarded E-Mails that get passed around. Someone has to sit and create them. Some of strange Threatening you to forward it to 8 friends within so many minutes or you will have bad luck, others are inspiring, some let you know you have friends out there that are thinking of you, and then there are others that are really clever and very creative. I am going to add one of those links here that was recently forwarded to me that inspired me to smile. http://tinyurl.com/yxewot Could this be true?

All washed up!

2007-01-19T22:40:00.000-05:00

There is one thing that Tucker does not like very much at all! It is getting a BATH! He runs and hides at the mention of the word. And then while I am bathing him he shivers and cries like he is being tortured. But the end product is well worth it a nice fluffy dog that smells Good!

Womens' Retreat

2007-01-15T22:48:00.000-05:00

Make video montages at onetruemedia.com

I had the most fun this past weekend! My mother and went to a ladies Church weekend retreat! The theme was irrepressable hope. We watch excellent speakers from the women of faith conference. My mom and I also slipped out for part of the morning to attend a Red Hat brunch not far away that was scheduled for the same weekend. Talk about eating too much good food in one weekend! Any way from the few pictures I took I think you will be able to see the fun time that we had. The funniest moment was when a guest panel of experts were to join us to give us some advise on the things we had went over that weekend. Well they were three of the men from our church dressed like women. We were all roaring with laughter! Watch the video is all I can say!
and I was diffently inspired to smile ALOT this weekend!

Family Tradition

2007-01-01T20:53:00.000-05:00

There is a family tradition that I look forward to every New Years day. It is a time of laughter and family fun that has been part of our celebration since I was a child. Of course the day starts off with a good pork and sauerkraut dinner, but that isn't what I look forward to. And there is the fact that the family is all gathered in the same home, but that isn't what I look forward to either. It is BINGO. We all gather around the table and play bingo for prizes. Every one in the family brings some prizes and they are all spread out across the table. There were more then 50 prizes today. That is a lot of bingo, so we start playing multiple winners per card to keep in moving. Prizes ranged from $5 gift cards, packages of pens, packs of gum rubber banded together, candles, jewelry, and a tide to go pen! It was loads of fun. There were 13 of us playing. Uncle John does a good job every year as the official Bingo caller. (Caroline Bingo player in training)

After that fun was over we tried a new game that my mom had picked up over Christmas. It is called IMAGINEIFF. It is the greatest game I have ever played. I haven't laughed so hard in a long time. If you see this game you have to buy it. I promise you will love it.

And that is what inspires me to smile!

A day downtown

2006-12-30T16:55:00.000-05:00

Today Rachel, Sarah, Samantha and I went downtown Lancaster. We stopped for lunch at House of Pizza, and then went to the Historic Central Market. It was fun to check out the market stands. We then went to see OLIVER! at the Fulton Opera House. It was a fantastic afternoon.

And that is what inspires me to smile!

A night at the movies

2006-12-29T22:31:00.000-05:00

Over the past 3 weeks I have watched more movies then I have probably watched all year. Between all the Hallmark Christmas special Movies, Movies on new channels we now get on Comcast, and going to the movies, I think I broke my record. And you know what there are still good movies out there that I want to see. Tonight we took Samantha to see Charlotte's Web. I think Dakota Fanning is so adorable! But my favorite movie this holiday season was "The Holiday" I loved it! Go see it if you get the chance. Oh yeah and the Local movie rental business in our neighborhood called me yesterday to say that since we haven't been in lately we can stop in anytime this week and get a free rental. Looks like I will be fitting some more movies in before the end of 2006!

And that is what inspires me to smile!

Fun in the Kitchen for the holidays

2006-12-24T22:22:00.000-05:00

A nice thing about the Holidays is that you can make all sort of sweet things in the kitchen that you don't usually take the time to make. Today I made home made CARAMELS! Yum my very favorite candy. Here a few pictures of the process.

Boil, pour, cut and wrap! wallah you have delicious homemade caramels.

And that is what inspires me to smile!

Youthquake

2006-12-13T22:10:00.000-05:00

Tonight like every Wednesday night, we helped with YouthQuake. That is the name of our youth Group at our church. We have over 20 students in 7th - 12th grade in the group. These are all great kids, many of which I had when they were in 3rd grade in my Sunday School class. It is nice to see them grow up, yet I feel there is so much more they need to learn and soak up before they leave high school.

Tonight we talked about Forgiveness. In Ephesians 4:32 the Bible instructs us to be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake has forgiven you. The illustration of the Amish schoolhouse shooting was discussed. This happened a few months ago about 8 miles from our church. The Amish forgave the shooter and his family and in fact reached out to helped the wife and children of the man who did this horrible act. The question is Would any of us be able to do the same. When we don't forgive it creates bitterness, and anger. Those stand between us and God when we hang on to them. Take time this Christmas season to forgive someone if you have been holding on to a wrong someone did against you or a loved one.

Last Saturday I took five of the girls from our small group to see "Oliver!" at the theatre in Lancaster. We all enjoyed it so much and the songs have been stuck in my head ever since. I love musicals.

And that is what inspires me to smile!

Nothing worse then not feeling well on your birthday

2006-12-10T23:21:00.000-05:00

Today was my adorable niece's first birthday. The family all gathered at my sister Jen and her husband's home for a first birthday party. The invitation stated to wear Green or pink and I was happy to see that all that attended complied to this request. We are gathered waited for Caroline to come and enjoy her first birthday party.

The sad thing was she was running a fever and didn't seem to be in the partying mood. Poor little girl sat with her mommy and tried to take in all that was happening. She made it through the present opening, and it was time for the Birthday cake. Her eyes were heavy and I thought she might fall asleep waiting for the little pink cake with the cute frog (her favorites) decoration to be sat before her. She was a real trooper and tried to enjoy a finger or two dipped into the icing. We all sang to her and she was then taken up for a much needed nap. I hope she is feeling better soon!

After the party we went up to Shillington to do some Christmas shopping. And that will inspire me to smile any time!

A year in review

2006-12-09T02:49:00.000-05:00

Make an online slide show at onetruemedia.com

Click the play button and see the special people and things that inspire me to smile!

Preparing for Mission Trip in July

2006-12-07T22:48:00.000-05:00

Last night we had our first organizational meeting for our youth group's summer mission trip. I am really excited to be given this opportunity. We will be going to Patillas Puerto Rico.
It looks like the six youth leaders and our pastor and his wife will be chaperoning the teens on this, our first out of the country mission trip.

Our church supports a Missionary couple - the Westerband's - who live in Patillas. We will be in charge of a week long VBS for the children while we are there. We will also be doing some street Drama, music, witnessing, crafts, and helping with a single mother's group while there.

We will be flying out of Philadelphia on July 23rd and returning July 30th. Please pray for our group.

And that is what inspires me to smile

Enjoying the Christmas Season

2006-12-03T15:23:00.000-05:00

Why do weekends go so fast? It is hard to believe that the sun will be setting soon and tomorrow is back to work. Not that I don't like my job, I do.. most all of the time. More about that another time.
This Christmas season our pastor has been teaching on a different Character from the recorded Christmas story in the Bible. Today was on Mary the mother of Jesus. My mind tries to imagine what it was like for Mary to hear the news from an angel that she was going to give birth the the son of God. What it must have been like to raise him, and hear him say his prayers. I love the Christmas season. I love reading the scriptures that tell of Christ birth. What an awesome time of year to smile and share God's love with others.
Den is in the Christmas choir. They have been practicing for weeks now for the Christmas program on Dec. 17th. I love singing, but don't feel like I have the voice to sing in a choir. Some of us are more suited to sit and enjoy what the others have to share.

Here is a picture of our church. Colerain Baptist Church 1923 Noble Road Kirkwood, PA 17536 If you are ever passing through stop in some Sunday Morning.

And that is what inspires me to smile!

My three Nieces

2006-12-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

These are my Three beautiful nieces and their friends.

Caroline will be One year old next week. She makes me smile just being with her because of her funny faces and personality.

Lindsey is a Beautiful girl who is in College for Nursing. She is very bright and will make a compassionate Nurse.

Alie is a Sweetheart who has set a new record at her High School in Discus throwing. She too is a beautiful and smart girl.
And that is what inspires me to smile

Deck the Halls

2006-11-28T23:35:00.000-05:00

Tonight We decorated the house for Christmas. My husband had a Trustee meeting at Church so I tackled this project myself. Well I did have one little helper. Tucker our youngest doggy (7 Months old) Quite enjoyed the entire process. His mommy is a Shitz Ztu and his daddy is a long haired Chihuahua. He is the sweetest little playful puppy.

And that is what inspires me to smile!

Black Friday

2006-11-25T00:06:00.000-05:00

We were not one of the devoted shoppers that were trying to find a parking spot at Rockvale at midnight, or one of the early risers that were out for the early bird specials. But Dennis did take Samantha and myself out shopping mid morning.

The parking lot at the Mall was filled. My dear husband drove right pass a prime parking spot(one of the only empty ones we could find that was the third spot into the row) because it had some soda cups sitting in it and he didn't think it would be good to get soda on the car! If I were driving we would have been parked there and on our way into the mall. But instead we were still circling the lot looking for anyone that was heading towards a car to leave. We finally found one and headed into the mall.

The hustle and bustle of the crowd was exciting. I think it goes back to my early childhood where shopping after the Thanksgiving holiday was something my sisters and I always did with my mom and grandmother Trimble. After about two hours of shopping we left the mall with only a new set of flannel sheets for our bed. We went to Office Max for a new scanner only to find out they only stock the ones that are on printers now. So we bought a printer scanner even though our printer worked fine. We then thought lets head across the lot to Circuit City. We hit the jack pot there. We walked out with a 37 inch Sylvania flat LCD Screen TV. They were having great sales and we had Christmas money from my mom that was burning a hole in our pockets. It was around 8pm when we headed back out to Target to purchase a mounting bracket to mount it onto our wall in the family room. Of course while we were there other things just seemed to good of a deal to pass up and we ended up spending too much.

Shopping today was fun, but now we have to start shopping for those on our list!

And that is why I am inspired to smile!

Memories of my dad

2006-11-23T22:17:00.000-05:00

It was another great thanksgiving meal at my mother's house. This was the fourth Thanksgiving that we have shared since my dad passes away in May of 2003. We all miss him.
I thought I might do a little tribute to him since he is on my mind today. He was born and raised in Southern Lancaster county on a Farm. He met and married my mother- a Holtwood girl. My dad was a hard working man. He worked at the power plant and farmed a 23 acre farm. I think he enjoyed staying busy. He was very good at managing money. It was a blessing that he was able to retire early from PP&L. It allowed time for him to enjoy life and his family. My dad was proud to be a member of the Masonic Lodge. He enjoyed working with the Amish community. And he loved riding his Tennessee Walker Horses.
Some of my special memories of him are taking walks in the woods and digging up old bottles, Riding bikes on the boardwalk at the shore every summer, driving tractor for him and helping on
the farm, him teaching me to drive, the wise advice he always had, and when he would stop in to chat with Dennis and I after we were married with his cup of coffee from Turkey Hill on Sunday mornings.

In Loving Memory of my dad
Clair A. Carter
And that is what inspires me to smile!

Meet us

2006-11-23T10:43:00.000-05:00

I am one half of a couple. Let me tell you a little about my hubby. He is a funny guy who brings so much laughter and fun to my life. We met June 30th 2000. He is one of seven children. He has five brothers and one sister. When he gets together with his brothers you know you are in for a good time. Soon they start sharing stories of the crazy things they did as young boys. I can only picture my husband as this youngest brother getting into all these adventures with his big brothers. They have me in stitches!

Dennis graduated from West-Mont Christian Academy. His parents were strict but very loving. I think all of the above helps to make him the wonderful husband he is today!

We were married April 26, 2003 at Niagara Falls NY. It was a happy day for both of us. The start of a new life together. We spend two days in Niagara Falls NY and then two days in Niagara Falls Canada. On our wedding eve we went to the Niagara Casino to see the Temptations in concert. The entire honeymoon was packed with amusing adventures. Just to quick mention a few: Wind storm, Losing our electric in the honeymoon suite that overlooked the falls, glass factory, maid of the mist, finding that my co-workers had an amazing gift certificate waiting for us when we checked in for dinner at the "Pinnacle Restaurant", Gigantic Bugs splatting on our windshield while traveling through NY, and stopping at the Finger Lakes on the home.

Maid of the Mist

And that is why I am inspired to smile!

First Blog

2006-11-22T23:07:00.000-05:00

I am sitting here full of Turkey dinner and it is only Thanksgiving Eve. Our Church had a Thanksgiving Dinner tonight for the church family and our neighbors. It was nice to meet some new people. As I was serving the one table I realized an old co-worker was there with her husband. I hadn't seen her since she was married and she is now expecting a baby. It was Great that God had brought them and many others out on this cold rainy night to share a time of Thanksgiving.
My Husband was in a little Thanksgiving Drama skit during our service. It was the first time he participated the the Drama team. I thought he did a great job and was very funny, yet got the point of the skit across to except people for who they are, and be thankful for what we have.
In the service our pastor commented about how in today's culture people want to say Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas, and how they have a problem with celebrating the Easter Holiday(it is now Spring break in schools instead of Easter Vacation) But He went on to say that they haven't really argued with Thanksgiving yet. Pastor said who do they think we are thanking? The answer is God! In all things give thanks.
I have a wonderful loving Husband who I am thankful for, Two boys that have good hearts and have always respected and loved me, Two stepchildren that are great kids, Dear friends that I don't see enough of, A Church family that I enjoy spending time with, Teens in our youth group that my husband and I get to work with every Wednesday night,Two of the greatest doggies in the world, Our first home, a job that on most days I would say I enjoy, Two sister and their families( including my baby niece who is a cutie pie) And a mother who means so much to me!

Most of this is what I will be blogging about over the course of time. It will be fun to share thoughts and things that happen in life. oh yeah and the name of my blog spot is R U who U want 2 be. It is from a Switchfoot song called "This is your life" It ask a very important question, Are you who you want be? If the answer is no, then ask yourself this question Is God in your life? If the answer is no or not really Click this link for some verses that will help you to find God as your loving father, Creator, Awesome GOD!

Here are the Lyrics:
Yesterday is a wrinkle on your forehead
Yesterday is a promise that you've broken
Don't close your eyes, don't close your eyes, This is your life And today is all you've got now
And today is all you've ever had Don't close your eyes
This is your life, are you who you want to be?
This is your life, are you who you want to be?
This is your life, is it everything that you dreamed that it would be when the world was younger, and you had everything to lose?
Yesterday is a kid in the corner Yesterday is dead and over This is your life, are you who you want to be? This is your life, are you who you want to be?

And that is why I am inspired to smile!