Early forecast / predictions are calling for potential snow in this area over the weekend. They all say it's too early to even discuss accumulation totals. That's what worries me! 'Cause here in the south when they say that. . .you better get to the store because there won't be any milk or bread left!

Why Southerners think you can sustain yourself on milk and bread if the power goes out is beyond me! If you have a clue as to this mystery, please enlighten me. Suggestions welcomed.....humor appreciated!

Here we are at the end of another year. As the New Year is upon us, I look forward with cautious optimism to the opportunities that will be presented. One thing I know for sure about the New Year is that God will see us through whatever comes our way.

While 2010 had its own set of challenges, they were nothing but bumps in the road in the grand scheme of things. Each moment and trial only served to make me stronger, more trusting, and more determined to lean on my God. I thank each and every one of you for your continued support and prayers for my family. God has truly blessed us beyond measure this past year.

I pray that your year ahead is filled with God's blessings and that you find the strength to meet your own opportunities whatever they may be.

As my sweet Sarah would say . . . be a blessing to others!

For Momma Teel!

We actually had snow on Christmas Day that continued until early Sunday morning (today). Not quite what you're used to having. . . but hey, It's Snow in Alabama!

For several years, I have used the end of the year as a time to reflect on the past year and create a list of what I’ve learned or been reminded of over the months gone by. However, I was lazy last year and didn’t post my list . . . here is this year’s list for your review (in no certain order or priority).

1) God is still in control!
2) Strength comes in tiny packages (like a 55 lb., 13-year old).
3) Davis is not the only one growing while he is away at college.
4) Blessings come when least expected and most often when most needed.
5) Daddy can’t fix everything. . . But, his Father can! We can, however, kiss away the tears, hold tiny hands in ours and make them feel safe.
6) I don’t have all the answers and sometimes don’t have any of the answers.
7) I love hearing Christians sing praises to their Lord. Especially those songs that just wash over you and give you goose bumps with their beautiful message.
8) Faith is strengthened by adversity.
9) Middle child syndrome at my house is one of humor and creativity!
10) Saying “I love you” to your children as they lay down at night is still one of the best ways to end the day. Saying “I love you more” makes it even better!
11) I have to choose what kind of day I’m going to have each morning. Happiness is a choice!
12) The love of our church family is one of our greatest blessings! It’s not a small world, it’s a big family!
13) Often there is nothing better than just holding hands with the person you love the most and having a good cry together.
14) Some things are just not important…like being stuck in a traffic jam on a Friday night after a long week at the office. The people at home, who love you in spite of you, will still be excited to see you no matter how long it takes to get there.
15) God has never let me down. He has been there to protect, guide and comfort through every day and every moment.
16) Never take one moment for granted – those little things that we do each day, both involuntarily and voluntary, are gifts. (Like breathing, walking, talking….)
17) Friends fill our days and hearts with love. A simple kind word or gentle touch from a friend can make even the worst of times seem easier. I’ve got some of the best friends a person could ask for.
18) I really do hate math!

Never take one moment or one thing that you can do for granted. Each and every part of your life is a gift. Each and every change is your opportunity to glorify God for teaching you to appreciate His wonderful blessings.

And as my sweet Sarah would say. . .Be a Blessing to Others!

The "young man" in the picture to the right is Scott H. He and I attended Middle Tennessee State University together. Scott is currently an employee at the White House (the West Wing variety). While we were in D.C. this summer, Scott was able to come by our hotel for a short visit.

Since Scott is confined to his wheelchair, he used me as a counterweight on his chair in the winter. When it would snow, I would stand on the back of his chair so he could have traction to get across the icy sidewalks on campus. Such good memories. . .he was prone to cut doughnuts in the snow as well! Needless to say, I held on for dear life!

It was certainly good to get reacquainted and have even a short visit.