Saturday, December 31, 2011

Happy New Year!!











It's hard to imagine that yet another year has passed by and we are just a few short hours from welcoming in 2012. My Daddy always said "time flies when you're having fun" and most people say "time flies the older you get"... well I can attest that both are true. 2011 has been a whirl-wind of changes and adventures for both Ryan & me. We started a side business (Cross Your Heart Products), got pregnant, remodeled a kitchen and bathroom, and oh yea, I started a new job.... talk about changes!! But one thing is for certain, the best change of all was re-dedicating our lives to Jesus Christ. Second, of course, was going through the IVF process. It seems that as I reflect not only on the last year, but over the last three years, it's hard to imagine just what all has actually changed in our lives... and ALL for the better. After 18 years of marriage I think we've finally grown up (lol) and I have to say it's been a wild yet joyous ride. We're so looking forward to 2012 and all that these girls will bring to our lives.... Guess I can change my "about me" on here too... it states: "hopefully one day I'll be a Mother".... well looks like 2012 is finally our year.... we're going to be parents! How exciting!!


Thanks to everyone that has supported our business, our love for Jesus, and mostly the upcoming birth of our girls, Alexis & Bridgette.... we look forward to spending another year with those that are closest to us and we're hoping to make many new memories. From our family to yours... Happy New Year!!



Blessings,

Ryan, Candye, Alexis & Bridgette

Friday, December 30, 2011

25 Weeks... and counting!

December 30, 2011


I made a promise to take weekly pictures for my baby sister from here on out, so I thought I would just share them occasionally with you as well. Also, I thought it would be a good way to document for our girls what their Mommy looked like in these last few weeks until we deliver. I'm sure (at first) they'll think this is "lame", but I'm confident as they grow into young ladies they will come to appreciate the journal I've been keeping for them all along. I have all of their sonogram pictures and stats too. Maybe it's over-kill but one thing I know for sure, when I'm gone they'll have lots of memories to look back on and know just how much they were/are loved, even when they were in the womb.

Since conception of this journey almost 15 years ago I never imagined we would actually be on the verge of bringing home not one but two little angels. I have to admit, most days I stand in the mirror and admire my belly (something you would have never caught me doing before) but now there's such a different spin on things... life's so precious and I want to cherish every moment of this journey.... even my large belly!! Funny how the small things in life become the big things you end up cherishing!

One thing I have learned through this whole process, most people consider patience to be a passive waiting or gentle tolerance - I personally have found that it's not developed overnight but it is gained through God's power, mercy and goodness. These are the things that have helped me to-date and I plan to teach our girls the power of God's Amazing Grace and will and that it is something we cannot tamper with or judge - but that we have to trust Him in all we do! Good or bad! If we stay in the will of God then it will all work out in the long run just as it is supposed to.

"And thus Abraham, having patiently waited, obtained the promise" (Hebrews 6:15)

"The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him" (Lamentations 3:25)

I have never been one to wish away time and I'm trying really hard now not to wish away the next 12 weeks, but I have to admit - I'm anxiously awaiting the day when we get to meet our girls! Thanks so much to everyone for their prayers and support - this journey has become so much more since we have you to share it with!

God Bless,
Candye & Ryan & Girls (Alexis & Bridgette)

Rayven's Miracle



Although this story needs no introduction I have to share with you that I personally know this to be true and was so glad to see Amanda (the mother) is sharing it with others. I have heard of many miracles in my life time but there is just something special about it when it happens to your family. Today I received a letter from my cousin who was led by God to tell their story of Rayven's Miracle. I just have to share it with you!

(Pictured on the right is Rayven - isn't she beautiful!!)






Rayven's Miracle






To all who read this, whether you're a believer in Jesus Christ or not, a skeptic, a Christian, or an atheist even; it has been laid on my heart to share the true story of our daughters miracle and I do hope it truly touches each heart that takes the time to read it. I'm no great scholar or writer or any thing of the sort so please forgive me if something I say is graphic or plain spoken because that is just who I am. Bear with me.






I will start at the beginning which was mid-summer in 2008. She was 8 years old at the time. Our daughter, whose name is Rayven, spent the night with her papa one weekend and when we went to pick her up the next day he mentioned to us that as she slept on the couch he could hear her breathing from the kitchen but it was not normal breathing. She had a very labored sound at the top of every breath. He thought that it might be an onset of asthma or something. When we got home that night and got the kids in bed I waited a while and then went back to her room and still about ten feet from her door I could already hear her breathing.



So the following day I set an appointment and a few days later we went in to the doctors office. We explained what had been going on to the doctors office, at the time not knowing that her own faith would be the key to our daughters survival. She had started us on a journey that involved many specialists from ENT's to pulmonary doctors, gastroenterologists to thyroid doctors and so on. Each would examine her and prescribe medication. Our daughter, being the champ that she is, never complained about all the different meds or treatments or the barium swallow that they ordered in our local hospital. Each of them, after realizing that their diagnosis was incorrect, which ranged from asthma to acid reflux, indigestion to thyroid problems, stress to possible heart defects, would refer us to another specialist. Each would report back to the primary doctor who was still continuing to research the problem Rayven was having. At this time, what started in mid June, it was now the beginning of September, just a few days before her 9th birthday was on September 10th.



By this time we were very worried as her condition had begun to change. She was losing her appetite, her breathing was still labored and we got a call from her school nurse that Rayven had come in complaining of double vision, which would later result in her left eye being crossed. All of which was reported to her doctor along the way. Still with no correct diagnosis, we would ask for prayer in church and family called often to check on her and the progress of the ongoing situation.



The primary doctor had been given both my husbands and my own cell numbers to contact for new information. Well one morning as we were backing out of the driveway to go to work my husbands phone rang. It was the doctor herself (not her nurse or her secretary). She began to tell my husband that after spending endless hours at her computer researching Rayvens symptoms with no clear answers, she bowed her head and prayed right there and asked God to lead her in the right direction as she had exhausted all other possibilities and outcomes. She then said she raised her head and just sat there for a moment staring at her computer screen. She said as she sat there things just started coming together like puzzle pieces. She explained that she was 99% sure that our daughter had something called Myasthenia Gravis. Naturally my husband and I both began to cry as she explained what this was but said that it was treatable. She also informed us that this disorder usually takes a very long time to diagnose because it is so much like other diseases and sometimes the child dies before a final diagnosis is found because it wasn't treated in a timely manner. I applauded her on the effort she put forth and she quickly informed me that it was not her but her Lord that helped her. She plugged all the symptoms in one by one and for once in about three months it ended in a correct diagnosis.



She referred us to a specialist in Austin which is about two hours from our home. They had a special test they could run to get a positive diagnosis. They did warn that in about 20T of these cases it is undetermined and they have to run another test and sometimes even still in about 10T of those cases a third test is required and normally leads to a positive diagnosis. Well as you probably already guessed, all three tests had to be done but the diagnosis was correct.




Let me fill you in real quick before I continue. We are contractors and do not have any form of health insurance but that particular year early in the summer the Lord really blessed us with an abundance of great paying work. He knew what was to come in the near future. All of the specialists were paid for in cash and there were many. Sometimes $700.00 - $800.00 a week not including the meds and the eye glasses they put her in for the double vision.



When the ball got rolling with the specialist in Austin they suggested we apply for chips under the circumstances because the future treatments would be very expensive. When the chips insurance was approved they began the process of eliminating medications that would possibly help and all the time she is getting worse. She got up every morning and took between 4 & 6 pills and vitamins and calcium supplements depending on the meds they were trying at the time. By this time she had lost a lot of weight because she was having a hard time chewing her food so she just didn't hardly eat. Her muscles were getting weak in her arms and legs and neck so she didn't play much and would have to hold her head up with her hand just to relieve her neck pain. Between the side effects of the medications and the muscle weakness and pain, we had to pick her up several times from school. As if all this was not enough for her to deal with, she would come home crying because kids at school made fun of her eye being crossed. Needless to say, we were all weary and worried.



By this time I'm guessing it was probably around December or January. They had decided to do a procedure called IVIG. It was a two day drip administered in Dell Childrens Hospital in Austin. So we all (my husband, myself and our three children) loaded up and went to Austin for two days. We went through this same procedure twice. Rayven had already seen the specialists in Austin several times and each time they did the strength testing and altered her meds but still never seen any improvements even with all the meds and IVIG's and steroids and so on, only her declining health and weight. She was literally not far from being a walking skeleton. She was so thin you could count each one of her ribs, her face was so sunk in, her teeth looked too big for her mouth and her spine protruded from her back. Her speech was very unclear as her tongue seemed to get in the way when she talked. This is a nightmare for any parent.



My grandmother who lived six hours away from us was very concerned about Rayven and enjoyed our visits even though they were infrequent. We would go to church with her on Sundays and sit in the back row as she had to leave early most of the time.



On March 1, 2009, there was a visiting preacher there at my grandmothers church. The regular pastor was sitting in the congregation about mid way up on the left hand side of the sanctuary and we sat on the back seat on the right hand side. About mid way thru the service my grandmother had to leave but being the devout Christian woman she was, always rode with my aunt so we could stay for the whole service. As we sat there listening to the preacher I felt such a sweet spirit come over me and I began to cry as I looked down at my sick little daughter who had her head laid in my lap. I know Rayven was healed at that very moment and the Lord was right there beside her with all his grace and glory and majesty letting us both feel him. Something told me to tell her to say "its over". I touched her face and as she looked up at me I whispered to her "sweetheart say its over" and without hesitation or questions she did so and just that fast her whole face instantly became dripping wet and at that very moment the regular pastor who had been seated on the other side of the sanctuary, put his hands on my shoulders and repeated those same words to me "it's over". As my daughter and I sat there crying the pastor returned to his seat and Rayven looked up at me again and said 'mama I felt someone squeezing me, I know it was Jesus hugging me'. I knew at that moment she was healed. Naturally after the service was over I had to share our experience with everyone.



Shortly after that Sunday we had another follow up appointment in Austin and the doctors were amazed that her strength had improved. That was the first ever good report we received since she had been in their care. Now believing that the meds were the reason for the progress they continued to change the dosage and alter treatments to try and optimize the results in spite of me telling them about her miracle in my grandmothers small country church; much like our own church here in Snook, Texas. The chips insurance covered her for one year then she was dropped only to lead us to another blessing. The Neurologists office in Austin, which is Specially for Children, worked closely with the Muscular Dystrophy Association and they transferred her case to them who picked up her tab on treatments.



Now at 12 years old, she is a beautiful little girl who is full of life. She has regained all of her weight to where she is supposed to be for her age, she was on a soccer team and is completely back to normal with only one issue left. That being her left eye is still crossed. We are still counting on that miracle as well as My God never does anything half way and never fails to provide for our family.



There have been so many people blessed by Rayvens ordeal and so many people left in awe over the transformations they've seen in her with no apparent reason other than a spiritual one.



I feel in my heart that she was chosen by God for a reason, because she would bless so many with her strength and courage to handle all of this with a smile. Through all of the needles and tests and handfuls of medications she never complained.



Please if anyone that is reading this has a need in their life and you don't know where to turn, you can always look up and have a constant source of encouragement, strength and peace if you just ask God for it. He loves each and every person unconditionally and will supply your needs just as he has so many needs of ours and those of our family and friends as well. Nothing is impossible for him. Even if it seems impossible to you.



This is a very real, true story that I needed to share and I pray that some how some way each person walks away with a blessing of their own. May God bless your life and your home and I thank you for taking the time to read her story.



This was not intended to be a Christmas miracle story but as it was laid upon my heart to share it with others so close to Christmas, I'll close in saying, from our family to yours, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a very Blessed New Year and every year to come.



If you would like more info on Rayvens Miracle or just need someone to pray for your needs you can email me at carack@ymail.com.



Sincerely,

Carlos & Amanda Kelley



P.S. Please pass this on to someone else.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

FW: Groom, TX


 

 

 
In case you have not seen or heard of this beore. Amazing and beautiful

 
 
A TOWN CALLED GROOM, TEXAS
(There is always someone stopped here to visit, pray, or meditate. Trucks, buses, or single vehicles. Groom is a tiny town on I-40, but gets lots of visitors because of this.)


What an incredible display.This could be one of the last surviving
Christian symbols in the country
!
This is about 70 miles from Amarillo outside of town
called
Groom, TX
Read message at the end of pictures!  These are the pictures of the crucifixion of Christ, Sculptured from metal by a man near Amarillo , TX .  The crosses are made of metal also. The man did this out of the kindness of his heart. Someone donated the land on which to erect them.

IN CHEMISTRY, HE TURNED WATER TO WINE.

IN BIOLOGY, HE WAS BORN WITHOUT THE NORMAL CONCEPTION;

IN PHYSICS, HE DISPROVED THE LAW OF GRAVITY WHEN HE ASCENDED INTO HEAVEN;

IN ECONOMICS, HE DISPROVED THE LAW OF DIMINISHING RETURN BY FEEDING 5000 MEN WITH TWO FISHES & 5 LOAVES OF BREAD;

IN MEDICINE, HE CURED THE SICK AND THE BLIND WITHOUT ADMINISTERING A SINGLE DOSE OF DRUGS,

IN HISTORY, HE IS THE BEGINNING AND THE END;

IN GOVERNMENT, HE SAID THAT HE SHALL BE CALLED WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, PRINCE OF PEACE

IN RELIGION, HE SAID NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT THROUGH HIM;

SO, WHO IS HE? HE IS JESUS!


JOIN ME AND LET'S CELEBRATE HIM; HE IS WORTHY.

THE EYES BEHOLDING THIS MESSAGE SHALL NOT BEHOLD EVIL,

THE HAND THAT WILL SEND THIS MESSAGE TO EVERYBODY SHALL NOT LABOR IN VAIN,

AND THE MOUTH SAYING AMEN TO THIS PRAYER SHALL SMILE FOREVER.

REMAIN IN GOD AND SEEK HIS FACE ALWAYS. AMEN.

IN GOD I'VE FOUND EVERYTHING!

The Greatest Man in History Jesus had no
servants, yet they called Him Master.


Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.

Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer

He had no army, yet kings feared Him..

He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world. He
committed no crime, yet they crucified Him. He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today. I feel honored to serve such a Leader who loves us!  If you believe in God and in Jesus Christ His Son, you may wish to send it on ....

If not, just ignore it.
If you ignore it, just remember that Jesus said.  'If you deny me before man, I will deny you before my Father in Heaven.
 
 
 

 

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

With God All Things Are Possible

 
 
With the holidays I have once again found an excuse for not writing.  (Big smile)  Well, the Lord has really been tugging on my heart to get this blog updated and so I decided I better not wait any longer.  Obviously this is a word that someone (or maybe it's just for me) needs to hear. 
 
It's awesome to know that if you are still long enough you can really hear God speak to your heart.  The problem is, so many times we are too busy talking vs. listening, or we simply don't sit still long enough to hear what God is trying to tell us.  This is how we miss our blessings. 
 
I've been really working on trying to "listen" vs. "talking" and for anyone that knows me, knows that is one huge challenge!  What I'm learning is that God does not direct us down a path that will hurt us, we walk that way all on our own; however, he will let us take that path to teach us a lesson.  One thing I feel very strong in my spirit to share with you is that you must heed to the word of God and not wait too long... Don't wait until it's too late.... turn to Jesus and let Him be your co-pilot.  Let Him be the light in your life. 
Today I felt so compelled to post the following on my facebook page.  It was as if God was trying to reach someone to let them know that he has not forgotten them but that he just needs them to have a little bit of faith and stand still long enough to remember He is still God & is still in control! 
 
"God doesn't give us trials to break us - but to only make us stronger! When you feel you're down to your last straw, remember God is the maker of the hay and can replenish your supply & faith! Don't give up....just stand up & take control!  "And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." – Phil 4:19"

 

Notice the above verse says "ALL." It desn't say "some" or "most," but it says that He will meet all of our needs. It doesn't say how He will meet our needs and I have found from experience the way He does it is often not what I expected. But the bottom line is that God is faithful and He does what He promises.

 

Whatever you're facing, whatever your challenge, remember we serve a mighty God and with him All things are possible!! 

 

Luke 1:37 "For with God nothing will be impossible"

 
Blessings,
Ryan & Candye Daughhetee & Girls
 

Monday, November 21, 2011

Babies Daughhetee Update


 Dear Family & Friends,
 
We had another sonogram today.  I do not think those will ever get old! I look forward to them every two weeks (three weeks max).  We're told that most only get 1 or 2 sonograms throughout their whole pregnancies so we feel extremely blessed.  The Girls are doing great.  They were both quiet the little wiggle worms today.  It just warms our heart to see them so active at this stage.  Of course, not ever having babies before we have nothing to compare to except what the sono lady tells us and she says "y'all are going to have your hands full"... (smile)
 
Their heart rates were all over the place.  Baby A was 151bpm and Baby B was initially 135bpm the first time and then 141bpm the second time we checked; then she started dancing around so I'm sure it just steadily increased.  About 1/2 way through I had to readjust.  My back was killing me; so she let me roll onto my side.  When I moved then both girls had to re-adjust and were probably wondering what in the world I was doing. 
 
Overall, Baby B is exactly 1/2 the size of Baby A.  This is not uncommon.  They are two completely different pregnancies and Baby B actually implanted over a week later so she's always been a little behind her sister on the size chart.  I expect they will catch up as we get closer to delivery.  I'm just so thankful that they are both growing and have healthy heart beats.  For us, it simply brings a whole new meaning to "thanksgiving"! 
 
We are so blessed, yesterday a sweet lady brought us two big tubs full of the most beautiful little girl clothes.  Going through those clothes just made me swell up (okay, the hormone surges don't help) and remember God sends us Angels every day & we simply call them friends.  We're so lucky to have the friends we have... and of course, our families are awesome too!!
 
As always, all we ask is that you continue to pray for us and our girls, and we'll continue to keep you updated.  Hope you enjoy the pictures.
 
Psalm 100:5 For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.
 
From our family to yours ...... Happy Thanksgiving!
 
Blessings,
Ryan & Candye Daughhetee & Girls!
 

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Babies Daughhetee Update

 
Dear family & friends,

It has been brought to my attention that I have not sent out an update on our babies in a while and well, there is a lot to report so I thought I would take the time today to get one sent. 
 
I feel like there is so much to report since our last update.  I am not sure where to start.  We are officially approaching the 19th week into our pregnancy.  We had a sonogram a couple of weeks ago and we found out they are Girls!!  Yes, both girls!  We couldn't be happier.  Of course, we actually did not really care if they are girls or boys.  At the last sonogram, Baby A's heart rate was 146bpm and Baby B's heart rate was 148bpm.  My baby sister was able to come go with us for the sonogram and Baby B must have known she was there because she sure did put on some kind of a show.  She was doing everything she could to gain attention, waving, arching her back and stretching, and kicking and Baby A just showed us she was there, waved a little and went to sleep.  I have a feeling that's how it's going to be when they get here - never on the same schedule!  (lol)
 
As we reflect upon this time in our life and tie it to the time of year "Thanksgiving" - we realize we have so much to be thankful for.  We are so blessed to even be pregnant let alone to have come this far.  We know several couples that have tried IVF and they rarely worked the first time so we believe God's favor was upon us and we're trusting and believing in him that we will bring home two healthy little girls in just a few short weeks (19 to be exact... yes, we're counting down).  :))
 
Thank you all for your continued prayers and I'll try to do better about getting our updates out sooner.  We sincerely appreciate it.  Hope you enjoy the pictures. 
 
Proverbs 8:35 For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord. 
 
Blessings,
Ryan & Candye Daughhetee
 
 

 

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Every Test Brings A Testimony!


 

It has been a very long time since I've written.  I decided that I am going to try and go back to writing on a regular basis. I find I feel rewarded when I do.  It's like my time with God.  This last week was really trying and I have to be honest it was very emotional.  The devil really does come to steal and destroy (John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full) but thankfully I know a man who can change all of that and His name is Jesus!  (Luke 1:37 For nothing is impossible with God)

 

I was sitting here this evening watching the Gaither Gospel hour and they started singing an old time gospel song that simply says….

Without him I would be nothing.

Jesus, oohhh Jesus; do you know him today

Please don't turn him away; oooohhhhh Jesus,

My Sweet Jesus; without Him how lost I would be.

 

It hit me like a rock and I thought – "Dear Lord, I remember when I was oh so lost and undone without You.  I remember when my days were nothing but a blur and I simply just struggled to make it through a day without a true purpose.  Although I am still not 100% certain what my purpose is I do know I am closer today than I have ever been.  I also find that when my faith is being tested and the devil harasses me is when I'm walking closer with Jesus and that a breakthrough is on the horizon.  I used to think that when I was in the valley was when Jesus had left me; however, as I grow closer in my relationship with Jesus, I find that it is because in those valley's is when I get closer to Jesus. I may not always understand my trials & tests, but I do know my faith is growing stronger and I know that my God is faithful.  With every test is a testimony!

 

I remember when I used to hear my grandparents say, "I simply don't know how people can live their lives without Jesus".  I admit I did not fully understand what they meant then, but oh I do now.  There is a peace like you cannot imagine when you give your all to Jesus and you truly live your life everyday for him.  It's like a new beginning when I wake each morning.  I actually look forward to life and living it! I'm not wealthy in monetary value but I am the richest person you'll ever know.  It's true, if you'll just take your burdens and lay them at the feet of Jesus; turn them over to Him and leave them at the Cross and you'll find that everything WILL be just fine.  It's called "His" will... not ours!

 

They ended the show so fitting singing…. "Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling for you & me and He is waiting and watching – watching for you & for me".  He simply wants His children to come home!  I hope you will make the decision to "come home" and serve Jesus and give Him your all…..you'll never regret it. 

 

1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

 

I'm so glad my God is always present and faithful and will never leave me nor forsake me!

 

Blessings,

Candye~

Friday, September 9, 2011

Babies Update

 
Dear family & friends,

Well, yesterday was bitter-sweet.  We went in for another sonogram and everything looked wonderful.  We were able to see two very normal (and what appears to be healthy) babies, with very strong heartbeats.  Baby A's heartbeat was 162bpm and Baby B's heartbeat was 167bpm.  That sound of their little hearts beating and seeing the flicker on the sono screen is absolutely the most amazing thing in the world.  It's even greater to look up and see tears flowing down my husband's cheeks...(he's an amazing man)! We are so lucky and feel so blessed, although in about 10 months we are going to be soooo exhausted!! So someone please remind us of how happy we are today when we can hardly keep our eyes open.  (lol)
 
Yesterday also ended our time with the specialist.  He released us to our regular OB/GYN and it was almost like a break-up... (haha).  We've been with him for over 10 years, and although this is great news and what we've been hoping for, we are really going to miss him.  But I have a feeling that He will be in our lives for a long time - just more on a social level now. 
 
On another positive note, PTL I do not have to take any more shots!! Yeah!! Those were painful and I'm just thankful that they're over! So, as you can see, we are well on our way to bringing two healthy babies into this crazy world...and we could not be more excited. The next two Monday's we have appointments with our OB/GYN and we're pretty excited to see what it's like to be in a "normal pregnancy"... this is all new territory for us. :)
 
I attached pictures from yesterday's sonogram.  It is amazing how at just 9 weeks you can see so vivid the babies.  Baby B is a little harder to see from the angle we were at; but you can see both look very good. 
 
As always, all we ask is that you please continue to keep our family of 4 in your prayers and in return we promise to keep you updated as we progress through this wonderful journey.
 
Also, please pray for my brother-in-law; he's in the Air Force and left today for a lil over 6-month assignment near Afghanistan.  Please keep him & his family in your prayers.  Many thanks.
 

"And Isaac prayed to the Lord for his wife, because she was barren. And the Lord granted his prayer, and Rebekah his wife conceived" (Genesis 25:21)

 

Blessings,

Candye & Ryan Daughhetee 

Saturday, July 2, 2011

He's Coming...





It's 3:57 am. I sit here with tears streaming down my cheeks as I write this blog. It's been a while since I've written as life has been so busy and it got me to thinking it's been a while since I've read my bible as well. Maybe it's a fluke but the two always seem to go hand in hand. I know I have been under some stress of late with trying to have a baby, but I think tonight's dream was so much more.


I was woke tonight (from a dead sleep) by a dream. A dream that literally sent me to my knees. I dreamed that we were at an "event", still not sure what kind of event but there were all sorts of "old acquaintances" in my dream. I had walked outside the big doors to look at the sky because it appeared a storm was rolling in... I don't know where Ryan had gone to but he had walked another way... in a flash, a lightening bolt hit the ground, like none I had ever seen before and a roar of thunder cycled the sky with the loudest roar I had ever heard before... at that moment I turned to look in at the crowd and seen a person disappear....and then I seen more gone...there were half the audiance there that was present before... I knew immediately, Jesus had returned and I was left behind! What a horrible feeling! I turned to look for my sister and husband and to my dismay I found my sister.... I thought my husband had made it because I couldn't find him but I was wrong, he then appeared. I cried and everyone was shouting "oh my God, what is going on?" I knew, I began to weep because we had been left behind.



I know to some this is just a bad dream and you may not observe the same belief I do, but I tell you it has sent chills down my spine, and caused me to hit my knees. I do not want the Lord to return and I be left behind. In the bible it says, (1 Corinthians 15:52; In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump; for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raise incorruptible and we shall be changed.) In my dream it was just as it is written in the Bible, (Matthew 24:40-41) Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be taken and the other left (NIV).



I do not know where you are in your faith or your walk with Christ and regardless of your religion take heed to this message. If I'm wrong what do you have to lose, but if I'm right, you have everything to lose.



John 14:1-3 Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going thee to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. (NIV).


Once upon a time I would have worried about sending such a message to my friends and across a world-wide internet for millions to read, fearful of what others would think of me... instead, I am worried about not sending it. What if my one little blog gets through to just one or two loved ones, friends, or even strangers, then it is worth the ridicul I would receive, just to know someone else doesn't get left behind.


The time is nearing the end, in my opinion. I am not a prophet nor am I proclaiming that my dream was anything more than that. I am also not trying to dispell a date of the return of Christ for no man knows, not even Jesus. (Matthew 24:36, "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.") All I am saying is get your house in order, make your hearts right with Jesus and don't be like I was in my dream.... left behind!



Blessings,

Candye~

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Necessary Passion



There can be no fulfillment where there is no passion. The passion that will cause you to achieve must be strong enough to make you uncomfortable. Simply stated, you must want something - a good marriage, a ministry, a business - badly enough to survive the process required to attain it. There will always be hindrances to overcome. But the force of your personal passion will provide the power to break through anything that stands between you and the object of your passion.


Between Jesus and His goal was a cross. The Cross was not the end; it was the means. He didn't enjoy the means, but He endured it. What gave Him the power to endure the Cross and His passion? The desire that has ignited your heart and burns in your thoughts becomes the fuel that will enable you to withstand whatever life sends your way. Jesus' suffering was more than a groping in the gross darkness. It was the suffering of our passionate Lord!



Have you ever noticed that some of the most wretched sinners have become the greatest ministers? These people, accustomed to pursuing their passion, were people who dared to desire. Although misdirected at one time, their burning desire, when bridled and properly channeled, caused them to accomplish their goals.



If you are driven by intense feelings and often wrestle with your ambitious nature, hear me and hear me well; Do not try to kill your passion; simply redirect it toward the dream God has given you. Satan wants you because he knows that if you ever line up your passion with God's purpose, you will become a spiritual dynamo. There will be no stopping you!



Do not resent your passion. Channel it for the good of God! Control it, yes, but please don't kill it. Without it, you would be limp and lifeless, moving through your days like a robot. God created you to be full of zest and enthusiasm. Misdirected passions can drain your life away. But God can recycle your zeal and transform it into something useful for Him!



Acts 5:41 So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.



Blessings,

Candye~

Thursday, March 31, 2011

News Alert! New Facebook Illness!




I was getting ready to post my daily verse and tip when I read a post on a dear friends (Orvetta) wall, about a new illness the doctor's have diagnosed some with. It is called "Facebook Depression" and apparently is caused from reading your friends posts, discovering they are doing better than you, or have more than you; which in turn causes depression... my reaction to this is: WOW, Really?!? Some really will use anything as an excuse!!


Then I continued to read on Orvetta's posts something that made me feel so RICH and Blessed! She said, "obviously they don't have God or Candye's daily posts"....That was awesome! And, so very true (the part about God - not necessarily me). That got me to thinking that this morning warranted a blog and not just a tip.


You must initiate your blessings! You can not be envious of what others have. If you want more, you have to do more. You cannot just sit idle and "wish" for it. God gives us brains and muscles to use and not to sit around and just complain about what we don't have or be envious of others. The Bible gives us direct verses about jealousy and envy.


Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like: of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in the time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.


James 3:14-16 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.


You have to decide what you will have on earth and ensure it will not hinder your Riches in Heaven!


Matthew 19:21 Jesus said to him, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven, and come, follow me."


I believe that verse is not telling us that God expects you to sell everything you own and give it to the poor, but I do believe it is meant to convey that if you are more concerned about your worldly possessions then it will be hard for a rich man to enter into heaven... (Matt 19:23)


Don't look at what others have with envy. Instead, look at it as a motivator to get up and do something about it...go work hard like others do and make the most of what you have.


If you never ask for anything, you will never receive anything. Many people are so passive that they hang around life as limp as old rag dolls and never stand up to circumstances or enforce change. At the other extreme are the people who argue about everything. They are bitter and mean, priding themselves on being overbearing and outspoken.


Neither is effective. Being overbearing isolates themselves because they are obnoxious, yet being passive causes you to be taken for granted. You have to find the happy middle ground and learn to live with what you have or do something about it. Now I am not saying that gives you the right to go out and steal from others... However, I am telling you don't just sit around and wish for a better life...Go Create It! God will not release blessings to someone who will not ask him for it! (read Matt 7:7)


In my opinion, I have an abundance of Riches in my life. It's called a daily walk with Jesus, a wonderful family, a career (that is sometimes overbearing but apparently my boss read Matt 7:7 too; smile). See, I do not place my riches on the "things" of this world, but rather on the blessings God has bestowed upon me and the deliverance from not being an envious or jealous person. I am grateful for what I have and it's the small things in life that cannot be taken from me...my relationship with God...the memories I am creating along the way with family & friends!


You have to make your actions line up with your convictions, or you will live a fruitless life. What is even worse is the fact that in your old age, you will have to eat the fruit of what you did in your youth. Be careful what you cook! Initiate your blessings!


Blessings,

Candye~

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

God's Favor!


Sorry this is going to be a long one - but trust me, it is one worth reading to the very end!!


Have you ever really stopped to think about "God's Favor" and what it means to receive all He has for you?? I honestly can say, I have never thought about it in the way my sweet friend explained it. It was so amazing that I simply had to share my experience with you.


A week ago I was visiting (on the phone) with a girlfriend from Oklahoma. One I should talk to more often but as we all know the busy routine of life often gets in the way. The awesome thing is no matter if I talk to her once a month or every other month our friendship is never wavered and always remains so strong. I consider her a true blessing in my life. Anyway, before we ended our call we prayed together and then afterwards she sent me an email with the following verses.


James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.


Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.


Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.


Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think towards you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.


I carried those with me the following weekend to the Barrel Bash in Columbia, Mo., where I was setting up a vendor booth to promote and sell items. The whole week I worried that I would not sell enough to justify the 5-hour trip. Of course, my wonderful husband continued to encourage me saying, "you have to start somewhere" and "this will pay off for you, just have patience". Still, being the worry-wort I am (which, by the way, yes, I know that is a sin and I'm working on it) I continued to wonder what the weekend would hold.


My friends reminder that God rewards those that diligently seek after Him and His will for our lives stuck with me as well through the week. Well, let me just tell you how God's favor works if you trust and lean on Him and believe He will take care of you.


By the time we finished setting up for the Friday evening show there were quiet a few people in a hustle to get their horses ready. Not much activity at any of the vendors, not just mine. Immediately I thought about the cost of diesel ($3.75 - $4.00/gal) so I figured that would hinder sales somewhat. Saturday morning there still wasn't much activity. So, that's when I decided to take matters into my own hands and not be a worry-wort, but to become the prayer warrior I know to be. I began to pray over my booth/products and ask God to find favor in my products so they would sell and generate interest. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that almost immediately people started walking up and asking questions about Formula 707 (the equine supplements I'm selling). Within the hour I had sold several products, talked to several people and I was over joyed!


Sunday morning we got up early to go to Cowboy Church. What a blessing Pastor Metcalf was! He delivered a great message. We ended the service and I walked over by my booth and began to pray over it again. My friend and I went on for breakfast and when we returned I did not get the first bite completely chewed before people started piling in, and by the end of the weekend I was packing 1/2 empty boxes!


God never ceases to amaze me at how He takes care of His children and that He does find favor in us and wants us to prosper. My semi-load of items is slowly dwindling and I am now having to hurry and place another order before we head off to Lincoln, NE in just a couple of weeks.


If you ever doubted God's Favor before - DON'T!!! Trust in Him fully and it will be returned 10-fold!!


Expect God's Favor

in your life!

Jesus has called you

to serve others,

to bear fruit that will last (Jn 15:16)

Then serve the Lord

with a humble heart,

with a pure purpose, and

with determination

to do what is right.

"Lord Jesus, I trust in you!

Use me today to do good,

though I may get tired,

though my pride may be hurt.

Use me today, Lord Jesus,

to bless someone!"


For when you are a servant of Jesus,

you are a friend of Jesus.

You can EXPECT, you should EXPECT

His favor, His strength, and His guidance

To Help You!

(Poem by Ken Pilcher, Jr.)


Blessings,

Candye~