The Yellow Rose of Texas

Here is the first rose on my newly planted rosebushes here in Raymondville. I hope that I will someday have as many roses as I had in Reynosa.....but of course, that will take time. There are two more buds....so there is hope.

Happy 60th Birthday, David!!!

Today is my brother David's 60th birthday!! He is celebrating big time. From the reports I have gotten on the cell phone, he is receiving lots and lots of birthday cards. He received a phone call from a missionary friend in AFRICA!!! Today the family is having a special breakfast at Stockholm Inn, a favorite restaurant and on Monday he is going out to have ice cream with Melissa, our niece! And I hear that there are some presents for him too!!!! What a great day!!

It is fitting that we celebrate David!!! He is an incredible guy! Born with cerebral palsy which caused some physical and learning problems, he has accomplished so much. Let's see! He was a faithful newspaper delivery boy when he was young. For over 30 years he served as the head usher at his church, setting up the church for services, handing out bulletins, greeting people, taking up the offering, and generally cleaning up after the services. David faithfully writes letters...now using his computer and Microsoft Word...to many of his friends, including missionaries and ministers! David has loaned money to many of us in the family, bailing us out in tight moments! He makes great popcorn to share while watching his favorite videos. And, he loves to treat family and friends to meals at Culver's, Dairy Queen, Taco Bell, Lino's, Stockholm Inn, Domino's Pizza, etc!! He helps Mom and Dad by doing the dishes, taking care of the lawn, getting the garbage cans out to the street, vaccuuming and cleaning the house, and on and on. He goes with Dad on errands and gives a helping hand! As for directions.....if you want to go somewhere David has been, he can get you there!!! He always remembers the way! David's prayers are fervent and touching...and he does pray for everyone's needs.

The list could go on and on and on!!! The most public recognition David received came at the Covenant Church annual meeting in June of 2004 (I think it was!) when he was honored with an award (along with Mom and Dad) for outstanding Layman of the Year, the T. W. Anderson Award. He even spoke to the assembly of more than a 1000 people! It was truly a great honor.

So, my blog is dedicated to David today.....a really awesome brother! Happy birthday and many more more!!!!

Thanksgiving

My LIST of thanksgiving!

1--It did not rain nor was it COLD while I was packing or unpacking the van.

2--I did not have any trouble getting any of my possessions across the international border.

3--I was able to bring all four cats, Chiquita, and Opie with me with no problems.

4--The movers were on time (a true miracle for Mexicans!) and did a good job with my furniture.

6--I was able to get all the utilities, internet, and the landline phone connected with no LARGE deposits or fees.

7--Everyone...the landlords from Reynosa, the landlord in Raymondville, the church family.....were so patient with me while I did all the moving.

8--I received a few gifts of money and a couple of loans which have helped me get through this time of excessive bills.

9--God is really good to me!!!

10--I have new opportunities and there will be new doors opening as I now live in Texas again.