This time of year fills me with bittersweet feelings.  Seeing the graduates get their diplomas –- knowing some narrowly squeaked by with the minimum requirements and others outdid themselves in achievements – brings a happiness that they all are now able to go on and do what they want to do as graduates.   After spending years knowing some of them,  it is with sadness that I see them leave the safety and comfort of the high school.  Yes! I know there is much high school drama, but those same days for the most part are relatively care free and protected. 

            May you each work hard to be the best person you can be, include God in your life always, be kind to others, and take time to challenge yourself in work, thought, and inner peace. 

            For those who have not graduated, please take time to enjoy your year(s) at the high school and make it the best time that you can – academically, socially, and personally. 

           My love to you.

Yea!  for the tennis team and a shout out to the great tennis cheerleaders J   Life is made specialer by the wonderful people who color my days….thanks to each of you. 

A great big congratulations to a superb show choir

                 Daily I am shown the hope in the tomorrows  by knowing many young people who are discovering what God wants and how they can live for Jesus.     I learn and am encouraged by their fresh faith and their example in growing close to their Father…age can have a way of putting blinders on my Christian sight.   Blinders that Satan loves because then I am limited in both what I can see and the influence I might have.   Oh, don’t get me wrong = “focused vision” on the Cross is the very thing we all need, but if I narrow my sight to only the gift and mercy of The Cross then the I lose sight of other needs.

            Are we not commanded to “love your neighbor as yourself”?  Most days that is difficult and some days it seems like the impossible!   If I can keep myself from seeing others’ needs because of blinders then I somehow have rationalized that “I’m okay”.  Forgive me when I do that.   It’s something I’m working on!  Even last night my daughter challenged me in that area…ouch…and thanks.

            As we’re thinking spring weather, flowers, prom, and other fun things I’d like to share this:  http://www.hechosethenails.net/  

            God bless you.         

Maybe because I’m too simple minded J there are some things that just make me smile…like this:   http://sithsense.com/flash.htm      It is corny, but see if you can stump him!

            It was an excellent trip to St. Louis to see Jen in a play.  She was great and is a fine example of MHS grads doing good stuff.  While in the Gateway City we happened upon an excellent restaurant and it was a memory in the making at the City Art museum.  And there was another place to dine that we did not eat in, but it needs to be shared. 

Yes, it is an actual photo and you can find the place near Forest Park!

I am thankful for a safe trip, great friends, good food, beautiful places, and special people in my life…praise to God for so many blessings!  

Special Congratulations to the talented Show choir -- there are some great people in that group and they make my heart smile.  They are lucky people to "be in this place at this time".

This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!  Psalms 118:24

         An open note to a Lovely and sweet student: Thank you!   My last two days have been challenging and you couldn’t have touched my heart more.  God indeed does have my back and your reminder of it was timely.  Your words and actions are cherished…truly a surprise gift…yes, you really are "Divine!"  God wraps blessings in all sorts of people and I hope you take some peace in knowing that today you were the vessel in His hand making a delivery to me.  Bless you and consider yourself hugged.