2009 Scripture Memory Challenge # 22

Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord,
continue to live in Him,
rooted and built up in Him,
strengthened in the faith as you were taught,
and overflowing with thankfulness.

~ Colossians 2:6-7

LOVE in a Deep Dish Casserole! = )

The cooler weather of fall always brings certain recipes to mind…things like my Mom’s Ham and Noodle Casserole, an all-time family favorite. Nothing fancy, just old fashioned home-cooked love & goodness.

When we were growing up, Mom would always make our favorite dinner on our birthday. I asked for this…every time. Even for Brennan, this is a dish that says LOVE like no other. = )

As you can imagine, I was very eager to make this for Tom when we were first married. Armed with step-by-step instructions from Mom, I headed to the store for the ingredients. I got home and busily started preparing the meal. I could hardly wait until he tasted it.

The first step was to dice two thick slices of ham I had gotten from the butcher into bite-sized pieces. Since the next step would take about 20 minutes, I thought I should put the ham back in the fridge to keep cold until I needed it. I put the water on for the noodles, then chopped and began to sauté the celery and onions for the sauce. So far, so good.

By the time the noodles were done, the sauce was almost ready. I drained and placed them carefully in my brand new casserole dish. Soon, the sauce was done and I poured it over all the noodles. It smelled just like Mom's and the consistency was perfect! I was so pleased with myself.

I toasted and cubed the bread for the topping, drizzled it with melted margarine and placed it in the oven. I had talked so much about this meal, Tom was quite anxious to try it. Soon, 30 minutes had passed and it was time.

The table was set with our new Pfalzgraf dishes. I placed a generous portion on his plate along with some salad, and sat down across from him. I watched eagerly (and a bit nervously) as he took the first bite.

"Oh, hon…this is really good!"

I beamed.

He took another bite, "Wow, yes…I really like this…it’s delicious!"

Just as I was preparing to take my first bite, he said,

"...and what’s this called again?"

"Ham and Noodle Casserole"

"Hmm" he said, as he took another bite and gave particular attention to its taste..."that’s odd..."

"What’s that?"

"For some reason, I can't taste the ham."

Suddenly my mind flashed to the ham, in all its diced glory, sitting on the dish...still in the fridge. Oops. (So much for impressing my new hubby with my cooking finesse!) LOL! We both had quite a giggle and it’s been a favorite family story for years. To this day if I mention I’m making it, someone will inevitably say…”Don’t forget the ham!”

Hope you enjoy (and don't YOU forget the ham!)

Mom's Ham & Noodle Casserole

10 ounces of noodles (I use No Yolks) – cooked and drained

1-2 Cups of Ham (I use 1 pkg of John Morrell diced ham (drained) looks like about 1 ½ cups) OR get two thick slices (¼”) of lean ham from the deli and cube it

1 cup celery (finely chopped)

1 small onion (finely chopped)

¼ + 1 Tablespoon Margarine or Butter (I use I Can’t Believe it’s Not Butter – Light)

2 cups of milk

8-10 Slices of American Cheese (torn into small pieces)
(I use Kraft 2 % singles but Land O Lakes tastes better)

8 slices whole wheat toast (cubed)

Saute celery and onion in ¼ cup margarine or butter until nearly transparent, add in flour and stir coating celery and onions. Add in milk slowly, stirring often until it begins to thicken. (Skim takes quite a while longer to thicken than 2 % or whole milk.) When sauce begins to thicken, add in cheese, stirring until all melted. Add salt and pepper to taste.

In a casserole dish sprayed with Pam, spread noodles. Sprinkle ham on top. Pour sauce mixture over all and stir to coat evenly. Top with cubed toast. Melt 1 Tablespoons of butter or margarine and lightly drizzle over toast. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until heated through.

Serve with salad or other green vegetable. Approximately 6 servings for the average family, 4 if you live in our house! ; )

2009 Scripture Memory Challenge #19, 20 & 21, plus one more for good measure!

I’m playing catch-up with the Scripture Memory Challenge. Since I didn’t blog for nearly four weeks, I missed both postings for the month of October. As of today, I owe you 3 passages, but (because you’re so special), you get 4! Stay with me here…

I absolutely love the Psalms! They’re among my favorite places to dwell in the Bible. Early last month, I received a daily devotional message by Lysa TerkHeurst of Proverbs 31 Ministries. I was immediately drawn in when I read the opening passage. Her message centered beautifully around four passages in Psalms with a message that resonated with me for days…in fact it still is. As the excitement of the wedding, major changes at work and other everyday crises swirled around me, these verses have found themselves lodged in my head, but more importantly my heart. Like Lysa TerKeurst, these verses have become my daily prayer. Perhaps they’ll become yours, too…

A Morning Prayer

Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name." Psalm 86:11 (NIV)

It is very early in the morning. Not many people are stirring yet.

Though my body begs me just to roll over and go back to sleep, my soul is stirring to get up and go sit with Jesus.

Though I can't physically see Him, I know He is present.

I decide to open my Bible to the Psalms and use the verses I read as prayers to start my day.

And the more I pray those verses out loud the less I hear all the nagging things of the world. A beautiful melody of truth starts to rise up and suddenly my worries fade in the light of God's truth.

His perspective on things that are troubling me starts to overshadow my anxiety. Like shade on a hot summer's day, I feel relief in His presence.

I know that He is preparing me for what I will need throughout this day. He is already standing in every minute of my day and He sees what I will face. So, He's equipping me to be able to handle what is ahead of me with His gentle boldness, quiet strength, and loving grace.

In Psalm 81:10b, God instructs me, "Open wide your mouth and I will fill it." He will give me what to say today. What to say in happy moments. What to say in aggravating moments. What to say in moments where I feel insecure and what to say when I feel completely confident. What to say in disappointing moments. What to say in response to questions.

He also reminds me that sometimes it is good to keep my mouth closed and say nothing at all.

All the words that rumble about in my brain and those that will proceed out of my mouth, Lord, You be the author of those.

Psalm 84:1 reminds me that God's dwelling place is lovely. So, I ask God to dwell in me richly. I want Him to be what radiates about me. I want Him to be my pretty today.

Not my hair. Not my outfit. Not my efforts. But simply Him and His spirit dancing invisibly about me... shifting a wrong attitude, guarding my words, and whispering constant truths into my heart.

Psalm 86:11 is what I ask the Lord to give me. "Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart..."

Lord, may nothing separate me from You today. Teach me how to choose only Your way today so each step will lead me closer to You. Help me walk by the truth and not my feelings.

Help me to keep my heart pure and undivided. Protect me from my own careless thoughts, words and actions. And keep me from being distracted by MY wants, MY desires, MY thoughts on how things should be.

Help me to embrace what comes my way as an opportunity...rather than a personal inconvenience.

And finally, help me to rest in the truth of Psalm 86:13a, "Great is your love toward me." You already see all the many ways I will surely fall short and mess up. But right now, I consciously tuck Your whisper of absolute love for me into the deepest part of my heart. I recognize Your love for me is not based on my performance. You love me warts and all.

Have mercy, that's amazing.

But what's most amazing is that the God of the Universe, the Savior of the world, would desire a few minutes with me this morning. Lord, help me to forever remember what a gift it is to sit with You like this.

Dear Lord, I love You. All that I have read here is the desire of my heart. I know and confess that sometimes my actions and reactions betray my love for You. Please forgive me. Thank You for Your grace that is able to recognize this new day as a new chance to walk closer with You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.


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Happy Halloween!!!

Update: My hubby and I just returned from our church's outreach to the community called "Trunk or Treat." We've been doing this for 3 or 4 years now, and it keeps growing and growing. Well over 100 church members sign up to park their cars along the perimeter of our parking lot to pass out candy (tailgate style). In the center, volunteers provide free hot dogs, popcorn and other snacks and drinks. Tracts are distributed as well as New Testament Bibles. Christian music plays all evening over the sound system. It's an incredible opportunity to show the love of Jesus to an entire community. This outreach has brought numerous new families into our church, but more importantly, to Christ! Tonight, over 2,000 people attended and were shown the love of Jesus! We were thrilled and honored to be a part of it.

The Wedding!!!

Hello!!! There is sooooooooo much to share with you, I haven’t a clue where to start! I’m just going to dive in headlong, so hold on!!!

Last Saturday was the wedding…THE wedding, the one that’s been planned now for over a year. What an incredible day! It came together perfectly, wonderfully and beautifully. It had been unseasonably cold, rainy & dreary all week long. On Saturday morning, we awoke to those same cold temps, but beautiful sunshine! What a blessing. It truly set the tone for a wonderful day!

The entire wedding party met together at the church around 9:00 Saturday morning. Brennan and Breezy were seeing one another beforehand, so that many of the photos could be taken in advance of the ceremony. However, they shared a few special moments together, just the two of them (captured at a distance by the photographer) when he saw her for the first time as his bride. (I can't wait to see those photos!)

The original plan was to take many of the remaining photos outdoors. However, because of all the rain, mud & cold temps, they decided instead to make arrangements to use a local old theater instead. It was beautiful!

Special thanks to my sister, Marcia for capturing so many of these photos for me, all throughout the day (and even the night before at the rehearsal!) What a gift! Although I'm very anxious to see the photographer's photos, it was wonderful to have a huge array of candid shots (over 200 from her alone!) Thanks also to Dale Robertson who graciously shared his photos, as well. (Trying to narrow them down was no small task, let me tell you!)

The juniors, ring bearer and flower girl.

The WHOLE wedding party!

Beautiful Breezy

All the lovely ladies...

My two favorite guys...

Tom and I, just before the ceremony

Breezy's Mom, Lisa

Awaiting his bride...

What a great moment...

Brennan & Breezy planned a very meaningful and Christ-centered ceremony. At the outset, during a hymn, they had set aside a few brief moments for a time of prayer with us as parents, Breezy with hers and Brennan with us. It was very special and something we will never forget.

The service was officiated by pastors who are very dear to Brennan & Breezy. They did an amazing job, and their messages complimented one another beautifully. There was great emphasis on the covenant they were entering into, and the challenge to make their marriage mirror the relationship of Christ and the church. It was a powerful reminder to all married couples.

With this ring...

Signing their covenant

At the close of the ceremony, there was unmistakable, radiant joy that these two were now husband and wife!

LOTS of family photos after the ceremony. I love this one. = )

My Mom & Dad (He was wearing dress shoes for the first time since his injury...every time I thought about how bad my feet were aching, I thought of him. He was in a good bit of pain, but kept on smiling.)

From the decor to the favors, Breezy's family did an incredible job. They had worked on various items for several weeks and everything looked so elegant. Breezy's Grandmother made 40 of these beautiful arrangements! On Thursday, everything was brought to the church and we started putting it all together. As friends arrived from out of town, they all jumped in to help....it was a great time!

Here is the happy couple making their grand entrance at the reception!

The extraordinary cookie table! In keeping with Italian tradition, there were all sorts of cookies offered. (In addition to the beautiful cake!) Among them, Kolache, thumprint cookies, crinkles, Mexican wedding cookies, shortbread, biscotti and clothespins. With the exception of two cookies, all the rest were made by family friend, Brittany Robertson. She was baking and freezing for several weeks, and did an amazing job...they were INCREDIBLE!

The food itself was delicious... Italian wedding soup, salad, chicken & fettucini alfredo and Italian green beans.

Another HUGE hit of the day was the coffee bar. Bren & Breezy had arranged it through a local coffee house who came in and set up shop. They made coffee drinks and smoothies all afternoon!

My nephew, Blake and his lovely girlfriend Lydia

Remember how Brennan proposed? He wrote a play called "She Said Yes." Near the end of the reception (as a transition to their getaway), they had arranged for the same people who originally played the parts to re-enact the play. It went beautifully and the crowd absolutely loved it!

As the play ended and they prepared for the tossing of the bouquet and their departure...they took a few moments to thank everyone for sharing in their special day.

All smiles at the end of the reception, my beautiful nieces, Jordyn & Blaire.

And finally...a picture of my sister, Marcia with my lovely niece, Brooke!

A wonderful day, indeed. Hope you've enjoyed these glimpses of the wedding. Thank you for sharing in our joy and excitement for all these months. We wish Brennan & Breezy a lifetime of love, joy and happiness together.

Brianna's "Something Blue" Bridal Shower

At long last! I wanted to share photos from Brianna's "Something Blue" shower earlier this month.

Due to a number of circumstances, there were a very limited number of weekends available for our bride, so we decided to combine forces (her Mom, her Aunt, her Grandmother and myself) and have a large joint shower.

I knew it would be special and wonderful, because everything touched by Brianna's family is just that. Her Grandmother takes care of the monthly women's prayer breakfast at their church, all of which have their own theme. She puts a great deal of thought and planning into each one, so I knew she would be overflowing with beautiful ideas. And she was. Add to that the creative talents of Breezy's Mom, Lisa & her Aunt Shawn...Wow! We all had our assigned tasks beforehand, then the morning of the shower, other family members arrived to help, too. Like a mini army we got everything set up and ready.

Don't you love those place settings? It was an afternoon tea so at every place, there was a sweet tea bag personalized with the names of the bride and groom, a cute tea cozy and special cup and saucer to keep as well. I loved the way the large doilies looked under the plates.

The favors were darling! Breezy's Aunt Shawn reduced the shower invitation and placed it on these little boxes, added a flower and coordinating ribbon and pretzel candies. Absolutely adorable.

Breezy's Mom, Lisa has been collecting antique cups and saucers since she was a teenager. Having them on display added a beautiful touch to the shower.

All sorts of various teas were offered, in a variety of lovely tea pots...

We served cucumber sandwiches, mini quiche, egg salad sandwiches, cranberry scones, cream puffs, oreo bon bons and baklava...

...chicken salad croissants, triscuits with cajun salmon dip and mini fruit pizza. Delicious! (This was not to mention of course, the cake!)

We played several games..."How Well Do You Know Brianna" and also a purse scavenger hunt, which proved to be great fun.

Since Brennan made the trip back home from South Carolina with Brianna, he stopped by later on (just in time to help open some gifts!)

They received all sorts of wonderful things....too many, in fact to take back to South Carolina on this trip. Literally every nook and cranny of that car was filled. (I meant to take a photo, but forgot!) By the time the wedding rolls around, they just might need to rent another little u-haul! ; ) This couple is so very blessed and so very loved!

As of today, the wedding is 20 days away! Rehearsal dinner invitations are in the mail, Tom's is being measured for his tux this week, my dress fitting is Saturday...it will be here before we know it! Thanks so much for sharing in our joy and excitement! = )

Greetings and Another Gem by Jon Walker

Happy Friday! How I miss you! Be assured that even though life is keeping me from blogging much these days, know that so many of you pass through my thoughts (and subsequently my prayers) on a daily basis. You are loved, sweet friends. Loved indeed.

I received this message earlier today from GraceCreates, a daily devotional message written by one of my favorites, Jon Walker. Like so many others, this one is simply too good to keep to myself. See if this doesn't just give you an added measure of strength today.

Have a wonderful weekend!


God Sees Who?

The Lord turned to [Gideon] and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” Judges 6:14 (NIV)
*** *** ***
Gideon was the least member of the weakest clan in the tribe of Manasseh.

His task on the day in question was the tedious threshing of wheat, a process where the cereal grain is knocked loose from the chaff.

But this devotional is not about agriculture. It’s about God’s ability to see you for who you are meant to be not for what you appear to be. God saw Gideon as a mighty warrior and judge who would lead the Israelites back to their proper worship of God (Judges 6:12).

Gideon, on the other hand, saw himself as just a guy cranking wheat through a creaky old winepress.

But that didn’t matter to God. He told Gideon: “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” (Judges 6:14 NIV).

(Note to servants of God: The strength of the Sender is more important than the strength, or perceived weakness, of the one being sent.)

Gideon was still stuck in tunnel vision, believing what he thought and what he saw was the truth. To paraphrase the ancient Hebrew, Gideon told God, “I just don’t have what it takes, Lord. I know you’re perfect, but I think you made a mistake” (Judges 6:15 NIV).

Again, paraphrasing the ancient Hebrew, God says to Gideon, “Get your head out of the wheat dust and pay attention to me. I will be with you and so, yes, you will strike down all the Midianites as if they are no more than one man” (Judges 6:16).

It doesn’t matter what Gideon says about himself or what others say about Gideon. Only one opinion counts: God’s.

What God says about Gideon is the truth.

What God says about you is the truth. You are a precious child, created in his image; a sweet aroma that is pleasing to the Lord.


If you’d like to receive these devotionals regularly, sign-up at www.gracecreates.com/subscribe/.

2009 Scripture Memory Challenge #17 & 18

Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. ~ John 15:4-5 (NLT)

As I was planning to post my current verse for the Scripture Memory Challenge, I realized I had never posted my last one! (above) As I explained in my post last Friday, life is just plain crazy these days!

Between Brennan's recent move to South Carolina, wedding details, planning the rehearsal dinner and starting a new full-time position three weeks ago, I'm not sure if I'm coming or going. When I have had a few minutes to blog, I find myself staring blankly at the screen, unable to gather my thoughts into anything fit for reading! (I realize there are many people right now who would give anything to have "problems" like that, so please understand... I'm not complaining, just explaining!) Please don't give up on me.

In the meantime, please take a few moments and listen to the songs I've shared. They express my thoughts on these two passages far better than anything I could say right now.




As for God, his way is perfect. All the LORD'S promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. ~ Psalm 18:30 NLT

A Quick Hello!

Just wanted to stop and say Hi! Can’t believe it’s been a week since my last post. I have been a busy little bee!

Last weekend, we moved Brennan into the apartment (in South Carolina) he and Brianna will share after their wedding next month. They’ve been purchasing furniture little by little since the beginning of the year, so that little u-haul was packed to the MAX, as were the two cars also making the trip (one that was staying in SC and one to bring us back home!) We returned late Monday night, went back to work bright and early Tuesday as Brennan started classes.

Since we had travelled over the weekend, I was behind on my usual errands. Took care of a couple Tuesday night, saw my parents Wednesday night, last night did a truckload of laundry and grocery shopping. Tonight after dinner, I’ll be baking like crazy, preparing lots of baklava and mini fruit pizza for Brianna’s shower tomorrow. = ) Her family and I will be meeting at the facility at 10 am to decorate and prepare for approximately 60 guests due to arrive at 2:00! Can't wait!

I also wanted to let you know my Dad was released from his doctor yesterday. He took new x-rays of my Dad’s heels and said for a man of his age (66), the way his bones have healed is miraculous. He said they look better than he would have ever imagined…certainly an answer to prayer…thanks again for so faithfully lifting him up!

There is so much more I could share, but time is short so this is all for now...

Hope you have a wonderful weekend!!!

Praise the Lord and Pass the Gravy!

Last weekend, we hosted my hubby’s side of the family for two birthday celebrations. My father-in-law, Bob was turning 86 and my sister-in-law, Nancy was turning 56. I told Bob we could have any meal he wanted, but he was doing NONE of the cooking. (He typically insists on it, even on his birthday.) He told me he already had two Pork Roasts thawing for me in his fridge and with that, the decision was made.

I would have never let him know, but I was extreeeeemely nervous from the outset. You see, Bob is an amazing cook. There are a several dinners that are his specialty…one of them is roast pork. It is invariably excellent and our family LOVES this meal. I had never cooked a large pork loin before Sunday, so I asked him if he could tell me how he makes it. “No problem,” he said, “I’ll even teach you how to tie it.” Armed with his instructions and two freshly tied pork roasts, I was off to cook.

Everything went exactly as planned. After more than 2 hours of cooking time, I was thrilled to open the oven to find a roast that looked very much like one of his. He took one look and declared "BEAUTIFUL!" Upon closer inspection, he added, "cooked to perfection!" (Whew!)

By this time, the whole family had arrived and everyone literally cheered. (I think they too were a bit nervous that someone other than Bob was cooking their beloved pork roast!) The potatoes were almost finished cooking, the green beans had been in the crock pot all day, so it was time to make the gravy. I spent so much energy worrying about the pork roast, I hadn’t given much thought to making the gravy. (Are you starting to see where this is going??)

Like many families, ours tends to congregate in the kitchen. We have an island where everyone tends to hover. This often makes for extra pressure as you feel as though all eyes are upon you. Though I was thrilled the roast pork came out well, I knew I was going to be anxious until the entire meal had come together and was on the table.

I took a deep breath and began making the gravy. The natives were restless and seemingly watching my every move. The pre-dinner snacks had been consumed. Oh, the pressure! My sister-in-law, Sally was helping in the kitchen and we were both working as fast as we could, putting the final touches on dinner. The rolls were in the oven and I continued making the gravy. I had to say I was quite pleased with how it was looking.

Suddenly, we realized the rolls were burning so we immediately opened the oven to take them out. At the same time, our extremely sensitive smoke alarm (cleverly placed immediately over our stove when our house was built) began going off. The rolls were saved and we began waving a towel in the air to stop the smoke alarm. (Oh, just what we needed…more excitement and attention!) We were all laughing as I gave another glance to the gravy. It looked good, but I could see a few large lumps. I began looking for my strainer. Couldn’t find it anywhere! No worries, I thought…I’ll use my colander. I proceeded to grab my colander, sat it in my sink (in the middle of the island) and then grabbed the large pan of gravy. I quickly poured its entire contents into the colander. There was only one problem. I had forgotten to put a bowl under it. (I so wish I were kidding.) That’s right, the entire pan of gravy went straight down the drain. All that remained in my colander were the lumps.

There was a literal gasp of horror from everyone around the island and then…silence. Before I could even think, my mother-in-law (I’ve told you she was a character!) rushed over to my father-in-law to tell him what I had done. He grimaced, then grinned. I was mortified. Who ever heard of roast pork with NO GRAVY? The family who had been cheering me just a few moments before were now chuckling nervously, saying things like, “it’s ok…we don’t really need gravy.” Suddenly, I remembered buying several jars of this…
Woo-hoo!!! A few minutes later, we were back in business. While not the same as homemade gravy…this would definitely be better than NO gravy. Thank you Lord and Mr. Heinz!

As we enjoyed dinner, my family thanked me for the meal, and the pre-dinner entertainment. Needless to say, I haven't heard the end of this one! ; ) LOL!

All smiles after “the gravy incident,” here is Bob and Nancy about to partake of birthday Peach Cobbler (which turned out much better than the gravy, thank-you-very-much.) ; )

Mini Fruit Pizza...Easy, Pretty & Delicious!

Fruit pizza has long been a favorite of mine. Making it is definitely part of the fun! You don't need to be overly artistic to make one of these look impressive...just follow the shape of the dough with your favorite fruit!

Typically, mine looks like the one above. Last week, I decided to go "small" and make individual fruit pizzas. I was really happy with the results! We'll be making these to serve at Brianna's bridal shower (along with lots of other goodies, too!) Here is how they look:

This recipe couldn't be easier. I use Pillsbury Sugar Cookie dough. Just slice and bake!

For the base, mix one block of cream cheese (softened) with 1/2 cup confectioner's sugar and 1 tsp. of vanilla.

Then, simply top with your favorite fruit! This makes enough for one fruit pizza or 12 minis. If you prefer to make one large pizza instead, simply slice the dough and lay them close together on a pizza pan. Spray a little Pam on your fingers and press the edges together to form a crust before baking as usual.

Enjoy!

25 Years Ago Today...

...I walked down the aisle and with great joy, married this wonderful man. He is the most precious earthly gift God has ever given to me. He's my sweetheart, companion, dearest friend and love of my life. He brings unspeakable joy and inexpressable love to every day. I am so very blessed.

One morning about a year ago, I woke up and walked into our kitchen...bedhead, no makeup and pajamas. It was very early and the house was quite dark except for one small light. I thought Tom was still sleeping, but a few moments later, he walked into the room with something behind his back. He said, "I made something for you." With that, he extended his hand to reveal a cd he had entitled "Tom's Heart for Tracy." A lump formed in my throat as I placed it in the player. I listened intently. As the songs he had chosen began to play, the tears began to flow. He wrapped me in a hug and we listened together. Before we knew it, we were "dancing." I don't mean elaborate, deliberate dancing...I mean that sweet, soft swaying of two contented souls. It was a moment forever etched in my heart.

As I celebrate the love we share today, one of those songs especially comes to mind. Written by Steven Curtis Chapman, it's entitled, "We Will Dance."

I've watched the sunrise in your eyes,
and I've seen the tears fall like the rain.
You've seen me fight so brave and strong,
you've held my hand when I'm afraid.

We've watched the seasons come and go;
we'll see them come and go again.
But in winter's chill, or summer's breeze,
One thing will not be changin'...

CHORUS:
We will dance;
When the sun is shining, in the pouring rain.
We'll spin and we'll sway, and we will dance,
when the gentle breeze, becomes a hurricane.
The music will play, and I'll take your hand
and hold you close to me...
and we...will dance.

Sometimes it's hard to hold you tight;
sometimes we feel so far apart.
Sometimes we dance as one,
and feel the beating of each other's heart.

Some days the dance is slow and sweet,
some days we're bouncing off the walls.
No matter how this world may turn,
our love will keep us from fallin' and we...

We will dance;
When the sun is shining, in the pouring rain.
We'll spin and we'll sway, and we will dance,
when the gentle breeze, becomes a hurricane.
The music will play, and I'll take your hand
and hold you close to me...
and we...will dance.

The music will play,
and I'll hold you close and I won't let you go;
even when our steps grow weak and slow...

Still I'll take your hand,
and hold you close to me...
and we...will dance.

Happy Anniversary Sweetie! I love you beyond words and I cherish you with all my heart. I look sweetly forward to morning dances in the kitchen with you, all the days of my life.

I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine.

~ Song of Solomon 6:3