The Encourager

THOSE WERE THE DAYS !!!

2009-05-27T11:45:00.000-07:00

Those were the days my friend

We thought they'd never end

We'd sing and dance forever and a day

We'd live the life we choose

We'd fight and never lose

For we were young and sure to have our way.

La la la la...

Those were the days, oh yes those were the days

This picture was sent from Rainer Kunz to my Face Book .

I'm not sure of the year but know it was between '77 and '85.

Check out my beautiful knees.

Of course Becky was always right in the middle of the action.

Those were the day's my friend we thought would never end.

What Me , Thirty two??

2009-05-18T14:33:00.000-07:00

Back in the recesses of time

Our memories will ebb to and fro

It's hard to believe how quick time has passed

Where did thirty two years go?

Once you were my little girl

Now you have a girl of your own

And two beautiful sons

Who love their sweet mom

Who's the center of this very poem.

May God's blessing be rich and fulfilling

May your life be overflowing with love

Keep your eye on the prize

And strong be the ties

of our family with life from above.

Happy Birthday Sweet Annie

You are still my little girl.

Dad

A GLORIOUS EASTER !!

2009-04-06T07:06:00.000-07:00

CHRIST AROSE !!

Christ Arose! Repeat the sound
In the tomb, no body found.

Jesus died, what deep affection
Undying love, the resurrection.

Christ is risen, as He said
He's alive no longer dead.

Christ Arose! Our hope is sure
Our place in heaven is secure.

Christ Arose! Repeat the sound
In the tomb, no body found.(fwm)

Because He lives, I too shall live.

Let this Resurrection Sunday be filled with the power of the resurrection.

Praise God for a family secure in the knowledge that when we say goodbye here on earth we will say hello again in Heaven.

Freddie Martin Lives

2009-02-19T08:12:00.000-08:00

I often share with people in the hospital that my name is like the famous orchresta leader, Freddie Martin.

One old guy said he would remember but the next day he called me Tommy Dorsey.

My name wasn't after Freddie Martin the orchresta leader but from a good friend of my dad's, Fred Barchy.(I'm glad I didn't become a Barchy)

My name lives on in my # 1 son Freddy Martin Jr. and I'm proud to call him my son.

Fred means peace maker and that's the desire of my heart for me and my son.

My prayer is that both of us will be faithful to our calling to bring the peace of Jesus into the lives He allows us to touch.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 (New International Version)

CHRISTMAS - I HARDLY KNEW THEE

2009-01-28T07:57:00.000-08:00

What happened to Christmas '08 -

Did I wake up a little too late?

It came and it went

In Kaiser I spent

Four days with pneumonia my fate.

Christmas Day there was joy from above

As my family came in like a dove

It was like being in heaven

with my grandchildren seven

gathered to fill me with love.

It's been over a month and I'm still not feeling my best.

I'm pacing myself and gaining strength each day.

Thanks for all your love and prayers

STUFF THE TURKEY THEN STUFF YOURSELF

2008-11-26T10:46:00.001-08:00

First you stuff the turkey and then yourself do stuff.

With all that is before you

You would think that it's enough.

You fill your plate with turkey and all the trimmings too.

And then right back you go for another plate of food

And when you think you've had enough out comes the pumpkin pie and all the other scrumptious treats that really satisfy.

Now that you are finished you give your stomach a slap

Now it's time to lie right down and have quiet nap.

WHAT A "WATER"FUL DAY

2008-10-19T13:02:00.000-07:00

THIS IS SO FUN !!

EMILY'S SAFE ON POP-POP'S SHOULDER

JONATHAN SWIMMIN' WITH THE SHARKS

DANIEL BONDING WITH A LORIKEET

UNDER THE SEA WITH BEAUTIFUL PENELOPE

FREDDY'S FABULOUS FLYING FRIEND FROLICKING IN THE FOREST

WHAT A "WATER" -FUL DAY WE ENJOYED

AT THE AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC IN LONG BEACH ON OCTOBER 17

WHILE GRANDMA BECKY AND AUNT CHARIF PUSHED LITTLE GARRETT AROUND AT THE HARVEST FESTIVAL

Soaring on Eagles Wings

2008-08-07T13:11:00.000-07:00

Do you not know?

Have you not heard?

The LORD is the everlasting God,the Creator of the ends of the earth.

He will not grow tired or weary,and his understanding no one can fathom.

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

Even youths grow tired and weary,and young men stumble and fall;

but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles;

they will run and not grow weary,they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:28-31

I am continually amazed of how the Lord lifts us up as though He were carrying us on eagles wings.

It's when we come to the end of our strength that His strength begins.

It is when we come to the end of ourselves that He can do His wonderful work of grace.

If you're tired then turn to the one who never sleeps or grows weary.

We need to experience and be refreshed daily by His unchanging power.

CELEBRATE BECKY !!!

2008-07-08T06:04:00.000-07:00

TODAY WE CELEBRATE BECKY !!

What does it mean to celebrate?

The online dictionary says that to celebrate is to observe (a day or event) with ceremonies of respect, festivity, or rejoicing.

We celebrate Becky for her beauty from the inside out !

We celebrate Becky for her intense love for her family!

We celebrate Becky for her imagination and creativity !

We celebrate Becky for her deep and abiding love for God !

We celebrate Becky for her strong ability to lead others !

We celebrate Becky for her fun loving spirit !

We celebrate Becky for her insights and wisdom !

We celebrate Becky keen sense of fairness !

We celebrate Becky for her strong patriotic commitment

We celebrate Becky for being Becky !

Let's keep the celebration going with your words of celebration.

Have a blessed and joy filled birthday Becky !!

SPLISHIN' AND A SPLASHIN'

2008-07-01T19:39:00.000-07:00

SLISH SPLASH THEY WERE TAKING A BATH LONG ABOUT A SATURDAY NIGHT

RUB-A-DUB DUB JUST RELAXING IN THE TUB WITH THEIR FACES ALL SHINY AND BRIGHT.

FREDDY'S IN THE BACK, ISAAC'S IN THE MIDDLE AND LITTLE ANNIE AT THE FRONT OF THE TUB

THEY 'RE JUST SPLISHIN' AND SPLASHIN' AND THEY KEEP ON LAUGHIN'AS THEY HAVE FUN STIRRIN' UP THE SUDS.

I SURE AM LOOKING FORWARD TO OUR TIME TOGETHER AT HUME!!

PROUD AS A PEACOCK !!!

2008-05-12T16:50:00.001-07:00

WHO'S PROUD AS A PEACOCK WHEN IT COMES TO HIS CLAN

BUT A FATHER WHO'S FAMILY IS PART OF GOD'S PLAN

MY WIFE AND MY CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN TOO

BRING JOY TO MY LIFE IN ALL THAT THEY DO.

THANK YOU MY FAMILY FROM THE DEPTH OF MY HEART

MAY WE ALL STAY TOGETHER AND NEVER TO PART.

CONTENT AS KITTENS IN A WASH BOWL

2008-04-28T11:38:00.000-07:00

DO YOU EVER WANT TO JUST STOP BEING SO BUSY

AND GO SIT IN A HOT TUB

AND EASE ALL THE TENSION?

GOD'S SPECIAL MIRACLE

2008-04-16T14:06:00.000-07:00

Today I participated in and experienced a miracle.

I had been at a Chaplain's seminar in Pasadena all morning and then returned to Kaiser just after noon.

I parked my car in the back employee parking lot and as I got out of the car one of our security guards came over and asked if I had a hanger. I told him I didn't think so but then I remembered that I had put my cleaning in the car and had grabbed all the unused hangers to take back to the cleaners.

I looked across the way and there were two employees and the security guard trying to open the car door of a mother whose daughter, who was about two, had been locked in.

The mother was in tears and full of anxiety because the girl had been in the car about ten minutes and the car was getting hotter by the minute.

As I watched the attempt to get into the car I stood back and prayed and within a minute they were able to get the door open.

The mother had tried to get the little girl ,who was in a car seat ,to open the door. The girl tried but was unable to because there was a child protective lock in place.

What a joy when at last the door was opened.

The girl was very hot and was crying.

The mother grabbed her little girl and held her close.

I happened to have two bottles of cold water in my car and gave it to the mother .She poured the water over the little girls head and gave her a drink.

What a joy to see the relief on the faces of all involved.

I pray for divine appointments every day and today God did a special miracle.

NO FOOL LIKE AN APRIL FOOL !!!

2008-04-01T12:35:00.000-07:00

Today I was set up with the ultimate "April Fool" joke.

I had been away from the hospital doing a bereavement group when I got a call to come back to the ICU because of a family that wanted me there when they took off life support from a mother who was dying.

I went straight to the room and stood by her only son and his friends as they removed the support. I had just shared some scripture and prayer with them and then we ha a circle of prayer.

As I was leaving the room one of our ICU nurses came to me and asked me to see a patient in another room.She told me that the man was the son of a patient who had died a year ago here at Kaiser and that he had developed the same sickness and wanted me to come. I remembered the family so I walked in the room and walked up to the patient followed by the nurse and an ICU doctor.

The patients head was covered in bandages and I was told it was a grave situation.I put my hand gently on the patients shoulder and spoke his name. I said something like, Richard this is Chaplain Martin. Do you remember when we were together when your mother was so sick. I want you to know that I'm here with you.

Then all of a sudden the nurse turned to me and said, Chaplain you need to wake him and at that ,with a sweep of her arm she hit the patient in the head and the head went flying.

Of course this was a set up. The room was filled with laughs as some of the other doctors and nurses came in to see my reaction. My first reaction was a look of surprise and then I said please call my cardiologist.

I'm so glad the staff felt free to set me up with the ultimate prank.

TODAY WOULD HAVE BEEN GRANDPA MARTIN'S 100th BIRTHDAY

2008-03-17T13:20:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe but Grandpa Martin would have been a 100 year old leprachan today if God had not called him home to heaven 12 years ago.

Below you'll find Isaac's tribute to Grandpa which was read at his memorial service.

Mr. Harold Martin, Age 88...enters into Heaven with the Blessing of his Grandchildren...

Grandpa, As children we watched you and we learned from you. And we knew that you could do anything. As young adults we watched your body grow frail, but still we knew that you could do anything. For weakness in the body will always fade against the strength of love. You displayed us to your friends, your pride made us proud to be your trophies--to be the spoils of your victory. You recited poem after poem to make us laugh, and we did. Whoever said your mind was growing weak, must never have sat at your feet and listened to your limericks and your poetry. Your memory was an iron trap.Grandpa, stand tall. We can see you now running up golden stairs. We see you shining in the sun. And as you are washed clean and made whole in crystal waters, remember only how much we loved you. And we will remember how much you loved us. And as you stand face to face with Jesus, do not be ashamed, do not be afraid. Know that we, your grandchildren, are standing at your side as proof that your human life was full and that your human life was lived in service to your God. Enter into forever, knowing that your forever begins with our blessing. Know that now, you can do anything.P.S. Give grandma a great big hug and kiss for us.--Isaac Martin, 4/24/96

POP POP BEAMING IN BURNEY

2008-02-27T06:45:00.000-08:00

What a blessed Grandpa I am !!!

I've had the priviledge of standing with all three of my children and their life long partners as they have dedicated their babies back to the Lord.

I don't think I've gotten through any of the dedications without welled up emotion and tears of joy.

Thanks Fred and Charif, Isaac and Katie, and Annie and David for giving me the joy of dedicating your children and my grandchildren.

I can't wait for our time together in the next couple of weeks.

Where are we going to go? Disneyland of course !!

FIVE FINGER PRAYER

2008-01-16T12:50:00.000-08:00

This is precious....

1. Your thumb is nearest you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved

ones is, as C. S. Lewis once said, a "sweet duty."

2. The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.

3. The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance.

4. The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger, as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your prayers day and night You cannot pray too much for them.

5. And lastly comes our little finger - the smallest finger of all which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, "The least shall be the greatest among you." Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.

God's Promise's Never Fail !!

2008-01-15T13:06:00.000-08:00

Hold onto God's Promises and let Hope Reign.

(Pop Pop)

New Year Prayer

God grant us this year a wider view,

So we see others' faults through the eyes of You.

Teach us to judge not with hasty tongue,

Neither the adult ... nor the young.

Give us patience and grace to endure

And a stronger faith so we feel secure.

Instead of remembering, help us forget

The irritations that caused us to fret.

Freely forgiving for some offense

And finding each day a rich recompense.

In offering a friendly, helping hand

And trying in all ways to understand;

That all of us whoever we are

...Are trying to reach an unreachable star.

For the great and small ... the good and bad

The young and old ... the sad and glad

Are asking today; Is life worth living?

The answer is only in, loving and giving.

For only Love can make man kind

And Kindness of Heart brings Peace of Mind.

By giving love, we can start this year

To lift the clouds of hate and fear.

Author- Helen Steiner Rice

SLOW DOWN AND LOOK FOR THE "STAR " !

2007-12-20T11:12:00.000-08:00

AS WE TRAVEL THIS SEASON OF LIFE

DON'T LET US TRAVEL TOO FAR

LET US TAKE TIME TO THINK AND TO PONDER

HELP US SLOW DOWN AND LOOK FOR THE "STAR"

WE GET SO BUSY AND FRANTIC

THE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS WE MAR

WE FORGET TO LOOK UP AND REMEMBER

TO SLOW DOWN AND LOOK FOR THE "STAR"

WHO IS THIS "STAR" THAT WE LOOK FOR?

WHO IS THE MAN OF THE HOUR?

IT'S JESUS CHRIST OUR DEAR SAVIOR

WHO ONE DAY WILL COME WITH GREAT POWER.

AGAIN LET US REMEMBER

DON'T LET US TRAVEL TOO FAR

LET US TAKE TIME TO PONDER

LET US SLOW DOWN AND LOOK FOR THE "STAR".

CHOOSE LIFE !!!

2007-12-14T10:54:00.000-08:00

"This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live."

Deuteronomy 30:19

Today we had our holiday luncheon for our Kaiser Volunteers at the Marriott in Woodland Hills. I was asked to share some inspirational words and I chose the theme:

"Celebrate Life"

I started by saying that all of us are celebrating some special day during this time of year including Christmas ,Hanukkah and the New Year.

My encouragement to them was to celebrate family; celebrate friends; and celebrate faith. By doing so we are truly celebrating life.

Then I read the following poem:

Celebrate Life!!!

(Author Unknown)

I woke up early today....excited about all that I get to do before midnight....
I have responsibilities to fulfill that are important. My job is to choose what kind of day I'll have....
Today I can complain because it is raining.... or I can be thankful the grass is getting watered for free!
Today I can feel sad that I don't have more money....or I can be glad that my finances encourage me to plan my purchases wisely and guide me away from waste!
Today I can grumble about my health.... or rejoice that I am alive!
Today I can lament over all that my parents didn't give me when I was growing up....or I can feel grateful that they allowed me to be born!
Today I can cry because roses have thorns....or I can celebrate that thorns have roses!
Today I can mourn my lack of friends.... or I can excitedly embark upon a quest to discover new relationships!
Today I can whine because I have to go to work....or I can shout for joy because I have a job to do!
Today I can complain because I have to go to school.... or I can eagerly open my mind and fill it with rich new knowledge!
Today stretches ahead of me, waiting to be shaped.... I am the sculptor, ready to do the shaping....
What today is like is up to me because I get to choose what kind of day Iwill have..........

Celebrate Life!!!

THE CRISPNESS OF CHRISTMAS

2007-12-03T15:10:00.000-08:00

While walking out of the hospital entrance this afternoon I said to a friend how much I loved the crispness in the air and he responded by saying I love "Christmas in the air" too. So from that thought I wrote this poem.

I love the feeling of Christmas in the air

The biting cold, the nipping fingers

There's nothing to compare.

Through out the days while traveling all round

It's beautiful to see the frost lay upon the ground.

There's something pure and enchanting as you stand out in the cold

By allowing winters whiteness around you to enfold.

I love the crisp clear nights and the frosting mornings too.

It feels like God is making all things around us new

The crispness of Christmas is a favorite time for me

As we decorate and celebrate Christ's nativity.

God bless you in this moment as you think of God's dear son

The life he lived , the death he died and for your victory won.

Enjoy the winter whiteness and clothe yourself with love.

Enjoy your Father's blessings as He bestows them from above.

THE FRAGRANCE OF THANKFULNESS

2007-11-21T14:06:00.000-08:00

"Thankfulness is a flower which will never bloom well excepting upon a root of deep humility" - J.C. Reily

Our family is a beautiful garden of God's keeping.

He has planted us deep in His love.

He cultivates us with loving discipline.

He waters us with the Holy Spirit flowing freely.

He's has arranged us as a beautiful bouquet of His beauty.

May we allow Him to permeate our lives with his sweet fragrance of love.

My thankfulness for all of you is deep and ever expanding.

HAPPY GIVING OF THANKS DAY !!!

2007-11-15T15:37:00.000-08:00

Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.
1 Chronicles 29:13

The Turkey Is a Funny Bird

A turkey is a funny bird,

It's head goes wobble, wobble,

All it knows is just one word,

Gobble, gobble, gobble!

Hey Family don't be a bunch of turkeys !

Update those Blogs

LOOKING BACK A YEAR AGO - OCTOBER 28, 2006

2007-10-27T10:09:00.000-07:00

LOOKING BACK A YEAR AGO
I REMEMBER IT SO WELL
GOING INTO HAVE MY HEART REPAIRED
IT REALLY SEEMED UNREAL
THERE WERE SOME ANXIOUS MOMENTS
AS I WENT INTO THAT ROOM
I HAD MIXED EMOTIONS
FROM STRONG FAITH TO UNCERTAIN DOOM.
IT IS BY GOD'S GRACE AND MERCY
THAT I AM HERE TODAY
I AM BLESSED BY ALL MY LOVED ONES
WHO TOOK THE TIME TO PRAY.
I WON'T TAKE LIFE FOR GRANTED
I BLESS THE LORD FOR ALL HE'S GIVEN
I'M LOOKING UP AND MOVING ON
UNTIL GOD CALLS ME HOME TO HEAVEN

BEAUTIFUL JOLIE

2007-09-30T20:20:00.000-07:00

On thr 28th of September a new life is born
A beautiful, sweet baby girl
Dark wavy hair on the crown of her head
Her eyes like reflection of pearls

Little Jolie Ruth, what a beautiful name
For this marvelous gift sent from God
With her Mommy and Papa and big sister too
We reach out with standing applause

Be assured of my love and my prayers.
Can't wait to get to Thorne Bay

WE WENT TO THE ANIMAL FAIR

2007-09-02T06:47:00.000-07:00

WE WENT TO THE ANIMAL FAIR
THE BIRDS AND THE BEAST WERE THERE
THE BIG BABOON BY THE LIGHT OF THE MOON
WAS COMBING HIS AUBURN HAIR
YOU OUGHT TO HAVE SEEN THE MONK
HE SAT ON THE ELEPHANTS TRUNK
THE ELEPHANT SNEEZED AND FELL ON HIS KNEES
AND THAT WAS THE END OF THE MONK !!

WILD ANIMAL PARK - OH WHAT A LARK - AN ADVENTURE WE'LL NEVER FORGET
OUR TIME WAS SO SWEET - IN SPITE OF THE HEAT -WOULD WE GO AGAIN ? YOU BET !!

WHERE'S HAL ???

2007-09-02T06:12:00.000-07:00

THERE WE ARE THE BROTHERS FOUR
SHOULDN'T THERE BE A LEAST ONE MORE ?

I THINK WE NEED ANOTHER PAL
SO HERE HE IS , OUR BROTHER HAL

ISN'T IT GREAT TO BE ALIVE
NOW WE ARE THE BROTHER'S FIVE

THE WIDGEON

2007-07-24T12:49:00.000-07:00

Wigeon

Eurasian Wigeon

Male wigeon
The Wigeon or Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope) is a common and widespread duck.

Description
This dabbling duck is 42-50 cm long with a 71-80 cm wingspan. The breeding male has grey flanks and back, with a black rear end and a brilliant white speculum, obvious in flight or at rest. It has a pink breast, white belly, and a chestnut head with a yellowish crown stripe. In non-breeding (eclipse) plumage, the drake looks more like the female.The female is light brown, with plumage much like a female Mallard. It can be distinguished from most other ducks, apart from American Wigeon, on shape. However, that species has a paler head and white axillaries on its underwing.

STREAMS OF LIVING WATER

2007-07-20T07:31:00.001-07:00

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
Psalm 42:1-2 (New International Version)

My Soul, it longs for deeper streams
That flow from God's deep well
My thirst is quenched, my soul revived
As I draw from waters still
Lord fill me with your Spirits flow
Engulf me in your flood
Help me recall your sacrifice
Through your body and your blood

The Encourager 07-19-07

COULD I HAVE THIS DANCE ??

2007-07-02T14:50:00.000-07:00

I'LL ALWAYS REMEMBER THE SONG THEY WERE PLAYING THE FIRST TIME WE DANCED AND I KNEW AS WE SWAYED TO THE MUSIC AND HELD TO EACH OTHER I FELL IN LOVE WITH YOU

COULD I HAVE THIS DANCE FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE COULD YOU BE MY PARTNER EVERY NIGHT WHEN WE'RE TOGETHER IT FEELS SO RIGHT COULD I HAVE THIS DANCE FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE

I'LL ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT MAGIC MOMENT WHEN I HELD YOU CLOSE TO ME AS WE MOVED TOGETHER I KNEW FOREVER YOU'RE ALL I'LL EVER NEED.

COULD I HAVE THIS DANCE FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE
COULD YOU BE MY PARTNER EVERY NIGHT
WHEN WE'RE TOGETHER IT FEELS SO RIGHT
COULD I HAVE THIS DANCE FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE

Proverbs 5:17-19 (New International Version)
Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers. May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. A loving doe, a graceful deer may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be captivated by her love.

My Sweetness Personified For 37 Years

You are mine and mine alone

I am totaly blessed

You are my lifelong joy

Your loving grace filled ways are amazing

You are my satisfaction

You are my captivator

A PRISONER NO MORE

2007-06-21T16:49:00.000-07:00

ALCATRAZ PRISON -

PRAISE GOD FOR THE FREEDOM WE HAVE IN CHRIST !!!

It Is Finished

Bill and Gloria Gaither

There's a line that is drawn through the ages On that line stands an old rugged cross On that cross, a battle is raging

To gain a man's soul or it's loss On one side, march the forces of evil All the demons, all the devils of hell On the other, the angels of glory And they meet on Golgotha's hill

The earth shakes with the force of the conflict

And the sun refuses to shine

For there hangs God's son, in the balance

And then through the darkness he cries

It is finished,

the battle is over

It is finished,

there'll be no more war

It is finished,

the end of the conflict

It is finished

and Jesus is Lord!!!

Yet in my heart,

the battle was still raging

Not all prisoners of war had come home

These were battlefields of my own making

I didn't know that the war had been won

Oh, but then I heard the king of the ages

Had fought all the battles for me

And that victory was mine for the claiming

And now praise his name, I am free.

In Nineteen Hundred and Seventy-Seven..

2007-05-19T19:42:00.000-07:00

In nineteen hundred and seventy-seven,
God sent to us an angel from Heaven.
Her sweet disposition, her smile, her charm,
was a welcome addtion to make our hearts warm
All through her life she has brought us great pride,
In each changing season, in each changing tide.
Today she's a mommy and a wonderful wife,
Our desire for her is joy through her life.
This beautiful girl with a head full of curls,
is more precious than diamonds, more lovely than pearls.
More costly than gold and worth all that's on earth,
God bless you sweet Annie on this day of your birth.

TODAY IS PENNY'S 12th BIRTHDAY -

2007-05-18T06:38:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY P.J. !!

12 Things I Love About Penny:

* SHE'S BEAUTIFUL FROM THE INSIDE OUT
* SHE LOVES GOD WITH HER WHOLE HEART
* SHE GET'S EXCITED ABOUT MINISTRY
* SHE HAS A SERVANTS HEART
* SHE'S ARTISTIC AND CREATIVE
* SHE HAS A GREAT IMAGINATION
* SHE'S HER PARENTS JOY
* SHE'S A LOVING BIG SISTER
* SHE'S HER GRANDMA'S ANGEL
* SHE MAKES HER GRANDPA PROUD
* SHE LOVES TO LAUGH
* SHE'S UNIQUELY PENNY
Love, Grandpa

THE SQUIRT AND THE FIRE HOSE !!!

2007-05-16T19:52:00.000-07:00

DANIEL ( "THE SQUIRT") AND GRANDPA (" THE FIRE HOSE") WENT AT IT WITH GREAT FERVOR ON MOTHERS DAY.

DANIEL THOUGHT HE WAS REALLY SOMETHING WITH HIS HOSE TO GET GRANDPA ALL WET UNTIL GRANDPA CAME AROUND THE CORNER WITH HIS PRESSURE NOZZLE AND BLASTED DANIEL WITH A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH.

AFTER AN EXCHANGE OF HOSES DANIEL GOT TO TOTALLY BLAST GRANDPA. WHAT A GREAT TIME WE HAD.

AFTERWARDS WE JUMPED IN THE SOFT TUB TO WARM UP.

A MEMORY TO REMEMBER!!

BABY EM AT ONE !

2007-04-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

HEY EVERY BODY I'M ONE!

TODAY I'M GOING TO HAVE FUN.

I'LL LAUGH WITH GREAT MIRTH

ON THE DAY OF MY BIRTH

UNTIL THE DAY IS ALL DONE.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABY EM

POP-POP LOVES YOU !!

IZAAC WALTON - THE GREAT FLY FISHING LEGEND

2007-04-11T14:12:00.000-07:00

Izaac Walton

Born August 9th 1593, died Dec 15th 1683
walton is best known as author of The Compleat Angler (1653), one of the three most published books in English literature (the other two are the Bible and the Complete Works of Shakespeare). The Compleat Angler has run to more than 300 editions.
We know little of Walton's early life, but he born in a village near Stafford where his father was an innkeeper. Isaac's father died when he was only four and his mother remarried. Walton was apprenticed to a London ironmonger, and soon bought a small shop of his own. He married Rachel Floud in 1618, his wife being a descendent of Archbishop Cranmer. She had seven children, but none lived beyond infancy and she died in 1640. Seven years later, Walton married Anne Ken, half-sister of Thomas Ken, who subsequently became Bishop of Bath and Wells. Anne bore him three children and their marraige seems to have been a very happy one. Walton's surviving son grew up to become canon of Salisbury Cathedral and his daughter married Dr. William Hawkins, who became canon of Winchester Cathedral. Walton was successful in business and became a member of the Ironmongers' Company. He published a number of biographies, in addition to The Compleat Angler, and his writing gave him access to a wide circle of literary and society friends, including the vicar of St. Dunstan's Church, John Donne.
The Civil War was a trying time for Walton and in 1642 he left London for Staffordshire. He was a staunch royalist, and remained so despite Cromwell's victory. In 1651, while he was writing his great work, he briefly hid one of Charles II's rings for a friend, an episode which could have lost Walton his life. After the war finished, Walton decided not to go back to his business and devoted the rest of his life to literature, fishing and his friends. He moved to Norington Farm near Stockbridge in Hampshire, which would have given him a good opportunity to fish the chalk streams. His second wife died in 1662 and was buried in Worcester Cathedral. By now, Walton was great friends with Doctor George Morley (who subsequently became Bishop of Worcester) a friendship which is believed to date back to a period when Morley had to take refuge with Walton during the Civil War. Morley never forgot this favour and he offered Walton accomodation in the bishop's palace at Winchester, and Walton stayed there, or at the other epicopal residence at Farnham Castle, for the remainder of his days, making brief excursions to Norington Farm so that he could go fishing.
He became a close friend of Charles Cotton, and the two fished together for many years on a number of rivers including the Dove. Walton invited Cotton to write a chapter on fly fishing for the fifth edition of The Compleat Angler and Cotton completed the task in only ten days. At first glance the two seem to have been rather improbable companions; the deeply religious Walton and the Rabelaisian Cotton's characters having little point of contact other than their mutual interest in fishing, but don't forget that Cotton was a great raconteur, poet and a fabulous dinner companion, which would have suited the older man well, given his reputation for spending long evenings drinking and eating with a literary circle that included the great John Donne.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ISAAC MARTIN -

THE NEXT GREAT FLY FISHING LEGEND !!

BABY LOOK AT YOU NOW !!

2007-04-09T12:45:00.000-07:00

You must have been a beautiful baby

You must have been a wonderful child

When you were only starting to go to kindergarten

I bet you drove the little boys wild.

And when it came to winning blue ribboms

You must have shown the other kids how.

I can see the judges' eyes as they handed you the prize

You must have made the cutest bow.

Cause baby look at you now !!

THE PROUD MR. MC GOO

2007-03-25T14:45:00.000-07:00

THERE WAS YOUNG MAN WHO WAS BLUE
HE HAD TROUBLE TYING HIS SHOE
HE TRIED AND HE TRIED
TIL' HE GOT THE SHOE TIED
NOW HE'S A PROUD MR. MC GOO

A YOUNG LAD NAMED MC GEE

2007-03-25T14:30:00.000-07:00

THERE WAS A YOUNG LAD NAMED MC GEE

WHO LOVED TO CLIMB UP IN A TREE

HE'D CLIMB AND HE'D CLIMB

TIL' HE RAN OUT OF TIME

AND HE ALMOST GOT STUNG BY A BEE

COMEASACHILDORNOTATALL - CAACONNA

2007-03-21T12:33:00.000-07:00

FRED AND HIS FRIENDS CREATED THE PLAN
FOR DAD'S AND THEIR KIDS TO EMBRACE

HE SAW THE IMPORTANCE OF DAD'S COMING ALONG
THEIR KIDS AS THEY RUN IN LIFES RACE

"COME AS A CHILD OR NOT AT ALL"
IS THE THEME THAT WAS GIVEN THIS PLAN
AND GOD HAS BLESSED IN SO MANY WAYS ,
IN WAYS THAT ONLY HE CAN.

BLESS YOU MY SON AS YOU TRAVEL EARTH'S SOD
CONTINUE TO WALK IN WAYS PLEASING TO GOD.

A ROSE THAT GOD CHOSE

2007-03-21T08:10:00.000-07:00

THERE IS A BEAUTFUL FLOWER NAMED ANNIE

LIKE HER MOM SHE CAN BE VERY CANNY

GOD CHOSE HER FOR US

AND SHE IS A PLUS

I'M GLAD SHE'S A PART OF OUR FAMILY

IKE AND THE PIKE

2007-03-20T15:05:00.000-07:00

THERE ONCE WAS YOUNG BOY NAMED IKE
WHO LOVED TO GO FISHING FOR PIKE
HE'D LAUGH AND HE'D GIGGLE
HIS LINE IT DID WIGGLE
THEN HE'D RIDE OFF ON HIS BIKE

I WISH I WERE IRISH !!

2007-03-16T11:16:00.000-07:00

KNOCK KNOCK!

WHO'S THERE?

IRISH !

IRISH WHO?

IRISH I WERE IRISH !!

GRANDPA MARTIN WAS BORN MARCH 17, 1908

HE WOULD HAVE BEEN 99 YEARS OLD.

I SURE MISS THAT OLD LEPRECHAUN.

There was on Old Man of the Isles,Whose face was pervaded with smiles;He sung high dum diddle,And played on the fiddle,That amiable Man of the Isles.

There was an Old Man in a boat,Who said, 'I'm afloat, I'm afloat!'When they said, 'No! you ain't!'He was ready to faint,That unhappy Old Man in a boat.

ON EAGLES WINGS

2007-03-09T14:21:00.000-08:00

You who dwell...(On eagles wings)who abide in His shadow for life,say to the Lord: 'My refuge,my God in whom I trust!'And He will raise you up on eagles' wings,bear you on the breath of dawn,make you to shine like the sun,and hold you in the palm of His hand.
The snare of the fowler will never capture you,and famine will bring you no fear:under His wings your refuge,His faithfulness your shield.And He will raise you up on eagles' wings,bear you on the breath of dawn,make you to shine like the sun,and hold you in the palm of His hand.

You need not fear the terror of the night,nor the arrow that flies by day;though thousands fall about you,near you it shall not come.And He will raise you up on eagles' wings,bear you on the breath of dawn,make you to shine like the sun,and hold you in the palm of His hand.
For to His angels He's given a commandto guard you in all of your ways'upon their hands they will bear you up,lest you dash your foot against a stone.And He will raise you up on eagles' wings,bear you on the breath of dawn,make you to shine like the sun,and hold you in the palm of His hand.

BY THE WAY HOW CAN YOU SOAR WITH EAGLES WHEN YOU WORK WITH A BUNCH OF TURKEYS?? (lol)

THE FRED CONNECTION

2007-03-02T09:12:00.000-08:00

WHAT A WONDERFUL THING TO BE FRED

WHEN IN THE MORNING I GET OUT OF BED

I LOOK FORWARD TO WHAT LIES AHEAD

TO ENJOY EVERYTHING THAT I'M FED

TO LOVE THE ONE THAT I WED

TO FOLLOW THE WAY I AM LED

I END WITH ALL THAT I'VE SAID

RAINBOW AT THE PEAK

2007-02-14T14:25:00.000-08:00

Now overhead a rainbow, bursting through

The scattering clouds, shone, spanning the dark sea,

Resting its bright base on the quivering blue,

And all within its arch appeared to be

Clearer than that without, and its wide hue

Waxed broad and waving, like a banner free,

Then changed like to a bow that's bent, and then

Forsook the dim eyes of those shipwrecked men.
It changed of course -- a heavenly chameleon,

The airy child of vapour and the sun,

Brought forth in purple, cradled in vermilion,

Baptized in molten gold and swathed in dun,

Glittering like crescents o'er a Turk's pavilion

And blending every colour into one...
Our shipwrecked seamen thought it a good omen;

It is as well to think so now and then.

'Twas an old custom of the Greek and Roman,

And may become of great advantage when

Folks are discouraged; and most surely no men

Had greater need to nerve themselves again

Than those, and so this rainbow looked like hope,

Quite a celestial kaleidoscope.--

George Gordon, Lord Byron, Don Juan, Canto II, 1819

BEAUTIFUL LOVE

2007-02-13T09:16:00.000-08:00

How do you describe a "Beautiful Love?"

How do you know it when you see it?

I see Beautiful Love in my life partner, lover and friend.

Let me describe this Beautiful Love by using her beautiful name

BECKY

B - Blessing

She blesses my life with beautiful grace

that comes from from the depth of her soul

I can only describe it as unending joy

that makes my heart overflow

E - Exuberance

Her bubbly spirit , her spontaneous wit

Blended with mine makes a wonderful fit

C - Constant

She's so faithful and helpful when I need a hand

I trust and adore her I'm her number one fan

K - Kissible

Her lips are so soft, her hugs are just right

I'd love to hold her throughout a cold night

Y- Yielding

I love how she flex's and gives into my wishes

I think I'll get up and finish the dishes.

A Beautiful Love is ours through the ages

to tell all that we have

would take many more pages

ANNIE 'S GOT HER GUN !!!

2007-02-02T15:30:00.000-08:00

ANNIE OAKLEY OR ANNIE DUFFIELD ??

WHO'S THE BEST IN THE WEST ??

GRACE - WHAT A BEAUTIFUL SOUND !!

2007-01-23T02:33:00.000-08:00

In this past year I have been aware of God's grace more then any time in my life. Through all the mishaps and having gone through major surgery I know only God's grace has brought me through. I've experienced God's grace; I've embraced God's grace; I desire more than ever to excercise God's grace to others.
Following is a poem that depicts my gratefulness for God's amazing grace.

Grace, what a beautiful sound.
God's riches through Christ in my life abound.

Grace is a gift with no strings attached.
An abundant outpouring of God's love, unmatched.

Grace came to me when I was a child.
It started with Jesus, so meek and so mild.

As I've grown in my faith I've experienced God's grace.
I've learned that God's love is there to embrace.

Don't take grace for granted. Don't let grace diminish.
Extend it to others until your race is finished.

God's grace is amazing. God's grace my heart mends.
God's grace is suffient. God's grace never ends.

Grace, what a beautiful sound.
God's riches through Christ in my life abound.

NOT SO DUMB AFTER ALL

2007-01-10T14:07:00.001-08:00

Forrest Gump in Heaven

The day finally arrived; Forrest Gump dies and goes to Heaven. He is at the Pearly Gates, met by St. Peter himself.
St. Peter says, "Well, Forrest, it's certainly good to see you. We have heard a lot about you. I must inform you that the place is filling up fast, and we've been administering an entrance examination for everyone. The test is short and you have to pass before you can get into heaven."
St. Peter continues: "The questions are:
What days of the week begin with the letter "T"?
How many seconds are there in a year?
What is God's first name?"
Forrest says, "Well, the first one, how many days in the week begin with the letter "T"? That's a easy one. That'd be Today and Tomorrow."
The Saint's eyes open wide and he exclaims, "Forrest, that's not what I was thinking, but... I'll give you credit for that answer. How about the next one?" asks St. Peter.
"How many seconds in a year? Now that's harder," says Forrest, "but I thunk and thunk and guess the only answer can be twelve."
Astounded, St. Peter says, "Twelve? Forrest, how in Heaven's name could you come up with twelve seconds in a year?"
"Shucks, there's gotta be twelve; January 2nd, February 2nd, March 2nd..."
"Hold it," interrupts St. Peter. "I see where you're going with this, and I'll have to give you credit for that one, too. Let's go on with the next and final question. Can you tell me God's first name?"
"Sure." Forrest replied. "It's Andy."
"Andy?!" exclaimed an exasperated and frustrated St. Peter. "Okay, I can understand how you came up with your answers to my first two questions, but just how in the world did you come up with the name of Andy as the first name of God?"
"That was the easiest one of 'em all," Forrest replied. "ANDY WALKS WITH ME, ANDY TALKS WITH ME, ANDY TELLS ME I AM HIS OWN."
St. Peter opened the Pearly gates and said, "Run, Forrest, Run!"

Christmas: God's Gift of Love

2006-12-05T08:11:00.000-08:00

Paraphrase of I Corinthians 13

If I can sing the carols of Christmas like a prima donna or with an angelic voice, but am void of love, I become to those around me nothing more than an arrogant noise.

If I can read the Christmas narrative and know all there is to know about the characters and events of Christmas; or if I say God always answers my prayers, but am void of love, I become to those around me nothing more than a drone with a continuous tone.

If I give the biggest and most expensive gift I can find and even go into debt to buy it, but am void of love, I become to those around me nothing more than a braggart.

I must give the gift of love first to those around me before I do anything else. The gift of love I give must demonstrate great patience and kindheartedness. It must be empty of a jealous, boastful, arrogant spirit. Also it must be void of rudeness and selfish ambition. An angry, grudging, evil spirit will not befit this gift of love.

This gift of love gets excited when truth wins out. It will give protection, cause trust, expend hope, and develop perseverance.

This gift of love comes with a lifetime guarantee; it will never fall apart. Other gifts will come to an end; they will be put on a shelf and be forgotten or sold at the next garage sale.

The temporal must be replaced with the eternal. When I was a child, all I wanted was toys and games and stuff, but as I’ve grown into adulthood, my desires have changed. My desires now have a view to lasting eternal things that give purpose and expression to my existence now and into eternity.

Three gifts that are of lasting quality and come with a blessing-backed guarantee are faith, hope, and love.

The greatest and best gift though, is the gift of love

Pastor Fred Martin
Christmas 1990

GIVE THANK'S WITH A GRATEFUL HEART

2006-11-22T10:11:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING !!

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

1 Thessalonians 5:18

God has been so good to us as a family.

Even in the down times the Lord has lifted us up.

Even in the uncertain times the Lord has brought assurance of His presence.

Even in the sad times the Lord has given comfort beyond our sorrow.

Don't think of God's provision for us as an entitlement but of His blessing and goodness to us.

Don't take for granted the people that the Lord has brought into your life as one's to serve but ones to be served.

We don't know what a year may bring but we trust the One who does.

We don't know how our life journey may twist and turn but we know the One who will never leave or forsake.

Let's take time to remember what the Lord has done and not to forget all His benefits.

You are all deeply loved with the deep love of Jesus.

My heart is filled with thanksgiving for each of you and I pray God's richest blessing for all of you.

Keep an attitude of gratitude !!!

None Worse for the Wear...

2006-11-12T11:10:00.000-08:00

"Giving is the secret of a healthy life...not necessarily money, but whatever a man has of encouragement and sympathy and understanding."

These past few weeks I've been the recipient of a lot of encouragement, sympathy, and understanding. I've got a new heart valve and am none worse for the wear--a little slow still, but healing and doing well. I long to encourage each of you with visits and time, prayer, and to be available with a word of encouragement, but since I'm having to be at home for the healing to take place, I'll be satisfied with thinking of you and praying for you. We've had several sweet gifts of meals, visits, flowers, and calls and all are such a blessing to me at this time. Last night we had a sweet time with Freddy's family and to listen to their kids play Bible Trivia and beat their Grandpa at it was pretty amazing! I've had a good report from the doctor--and now will be patient and follow doctor's orders!

Thank you for everything each of you have done for Becky and I--it's good to be back blogging again.

How Can I Say Thanks ?

2006-11-04T05:34:00.000-08:00

“I would thank you from the bottom of my heart, but for you my heart has no bottom. “ ~Author Unknown

My Tribute – Andre Crouch

How can I say thanks for the things you have done for me? Things so undeserved, yet you gave to prove your love for me; the voices of a million angels could not express my gratitude. All that I am and ever hope to be, I owe it all to Thee.

To God be the glory, to God be the glory, to God be the glory for the things He has done. With His blood He has saved me, with His power He has raised me; to God be the glory for the things He has done.

Just let me live my life, let it pleasing, Lord to Thee, and if I gain any praise, let it go to Calvary.

To God be the glory, to God be the glory, to God be the glory for the things He has done

My Earnest Prayer

2006-10-21T05:46:00.000-07:00

"Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me.

Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me.

Melt me; mold me; fill me; use me.

Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me"

Dear Lord

Thank you for life.

Thank you for allowing me the joy of experiencing your mercy and grace.

Thank you for giving me the best in life.

Thank you for my family.

Thank you for Becky, the love of my life.

Thank you for Fred, Isaac, and Annie, my beautiful children.

Thank you for Charif, Katie and David, their life partners.

Thank you for the most wonderful grand children, Penny, Daniel, Jonathan, Sofia, and Emily.

Thank you Lord for giving the privilege of working in your harvest field.

Thank you Lord for molding me the way you have and using me the way you have desired

Thank you for all those special people you have given to me to minister and help me to be the man you want me to be.

Truly Lord, You are the potter, I am the clay.

;

A BROKEN HEART

2006-10-09T00:03:00.000-07:00

The doctor's say my heart is broken and it needs repair.
Why then do I respond in peace and not in deep despair?

As I reflect upon my life and go back to the start
I'm reminded that God created me and that He owns my heart.

As a little boy in Sunday School I remember oh so well
I gave my heart to Jesus and escaped a place called Hell.

I believed the Word of God as it was clearly spoken
Deep in my mind I realize my heart cannot be broken.

My heart may fail in this earthly tent I could even die today.
My hope is greater than my fears for God will lead the way

Praise God for His great promises. Praise God I'm not alone.
He'll walk with me in valleys deep and gently lead me home.

SHELTERED IN GOD'S MIGHTY ARMS

2006-10-03T17:29:00.000-07:00

SHELTERED IN THE ARMS OF GOD

I FEEL THE TOUCH OF HANDS SO KIND AND TENDER

THEY’RE LEADING ME IN THE PATHS THAT I MUST TROD

I’LL HAVE NO FEAR FOR JESUS WALKS BESIDE ME

FOR I’M SHELTERED IN THE ARMS OF GOD

SO LET THE STORM CLOUDS RAGE HIGH

THE DARK CLOUDS RISE

THEY DON’T BOTHER ME

FOR I’M SHELTERED IN THE ARMS OF GOD

HE WALKS WITH ME

AND NAUGHT OF EARTH SHALL HARM ME

FOR I’M SHELTERED IN THE ARMS OF GOD

SOON I SHALL HEAR THE CALL FROM HEAVEN’S PORTALS

COME HOME MY CHILD

IT’S THE LAST MILE YOU MUST TROD

I’LL FALL ASLEEP

AND WAKE IN GOD’S SWEET HEAVEN

FOR I’M SHELTERED IN THE ARMS OF GOD

HOME AGAIN

2006-09-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

There's a place in my mind that fills me with awe

as I reflect on the times of the past.

So many things change as I continue to live

and some things continue to last.

A place in my mind that is vivid and clear

is the street of my family's home place

It flood's my thoughts and fills me with joy

as a smile lifts up my face.

My Mom and Dad raised their family of seven

in a adventurous place near the bay.

There was Barney and John who were the first of the brood

and my oldest sister Jeanne.

Then Gay, Hal, and Fred and Olen the younger

made this large family complete.

To take care of us all on a meager income

was truly a marvelous feat.

You can never go home it's been said in a quote

and in a way that is quite true

but in your mind's eye you can always go back

to the place that has meaning for you.

What a wonderful time we had last weekend as five of the Martin kids gathered with others of our extended family to enjoy a family reunion. A highlight was when we drove to our property at 2536 Santa Ana Avenue, Costa Mesa, and stood out front for a family picture. We really missed having John with us so Barney got creative and was able to insert John into the picture. After accomplishing this feat he went on to insert my sister Jeanne and my folks. What a wierd sensation to picture all of together again. Even though this was done through computer "magic," I was impressed with the thought that one day we'll be together again in God's presence. The greatest desire of my heart is that each of my family have come to the place of understanding and acceptance of God's forever love through the death and resurrection of our savior Jesus Christ. Remember "man looks on the outward appearance, but God looks on the heart. "
God bless you all. Thanks for being my family.

HOME AGAIN: Sunday, September 24, 2006

WHEN THE FROST IS ON THE PUNKIN

2006-09-29T16:46:00.000-07:00

WHEN the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock,
And you hear the kyouck and gobble of the struttin' turkey-cock,
And the clackin' of the guineys, and the cluckin' of the hens,
And the rooster's hallylooyer as he tiptoes on the fence;
O, it's then the time a feller is a-feelin' at his best, 5
With the risin' sun to greet him from a night of peaceful rest,
As he leaves the house, bareheaded, and goes out to feed the stock,
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock.

They's something kindo' harty-like about the atmusfere
When the heat of summer's over and the coolin' fall is here— 10
Of course we miss the flowers, and the blossoms on the trees,
And the mumble of the hummin'-birds and buzzin' of the bees;
But the air's so appetizin'; and the landscape through the haze
Of a crisp and sunny morning of the airly autumn days
Is a pictur' that no painter has the colorin' to mock— 15
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock.

The husky, rusty russel of the tossels of the corn,
And the raspin' of the tangled leaves as golden as the morn;
The stubble in the furries—kindo' lonesome-like, but still
A-preachin' sermuns to us of the barns they growed to fill; 20
The strawstack in the medder, and the reaper in the shed;
The hosses in theyr stalls below—the clover overhead!—
O, it sets my hart a-clickin' like the tickin' of a clock,
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock.

Then your apples all is gethered, and the ones a feller keeps 25
Is poured around the cellar-floor in red and yaller heaps;
And your cider-makin's over, and your wimmern-folks is through
With theyr mince and apple-butter, and theyr souse and sausage too!...
I don't know how to tell it—but ef such a thing could be
As the angels wantin' boardin', and they'd call around on me— 30
I'd want to 'commodate 'em—all the whole-indurin' flock—
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock.

JAMES WITCOMB RILEY

RIVERS OF LIVING WATERS

2006-09-25T11:53:00.000-07:00

"Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.For the Scriptures declare that rivers of living water will flow from the heart of those who believe in me."
John 7:38(New Living Translation)

Autumn by Robert Frost

2006-09-22T14:10:00.000-07:00

Nature's first green is gold,
Her hardest hue to hold,
Her early leaf's a flower;
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf.
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day.
Nothing gold can stay.

Happy Birthday Son

2006-09-16T10:44:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY FIRST BORN SON !

"So, my son, throw yourself into this work for Christ. Pass on what you heard from me—the whole congregation saying Amen! — to reliable leaders who are competent to teach others. When the going gets rough, take it on the chin with the rest of us, the way Jesus did. A soldier on duty doesn't get caught up in making deals at the marketplace. He concentrates on carrying out orders. An athlete who refuses to play by the rules will never get anywhere. It's the diligent farmer who gets the produce. Think it over. God will make it all plain."
2 Timothy 2:1-7 (The Message)

Fred you are an extension of me as Penny and Daniel are an extension of you. I pray you will follow me as I have followed Christ.
Remember Fred , Jesus is an unsatisfied satisfaction ! He's all you need but always desire more of Him.
I love you Fred and pray God's rich and abundant blessings on this your 35th birthday.

DON'T BE A SLOTH !!

2006-09-14T14:14:00.000-07:00

The Sloth
by Theodore Roethke

In moving-slow he has no Peer.
You ask him something in his Ear,
He thinks about it for a Year;

And, then, before he says a Word
There, upside down (unlike a Bird),
He will assume that you have Heard—

A most Ex-as-per-at-ing Lug.
But should you call his manner Smug,
He'll sigh and give his Branch a Hug;

Then off again to Sleep he goes,
Still swaying gently by his Toes,
And you just know he knows he knows.

2006-09-13T14:06:00.000-07:00

An Irish Blessing

May the wings of the butterfly kiss the sun.And find your shoulder to light on.To bring you luck, happiness and riches.
Today, tomorrow and beyond.

GRANDPA'S PRIDE!!

2006-09-02T19:53:00.000-07:00

A grandpa's pride, he cannot hide with all this beauty by his side.

Let Jesus be your constant guide and in His love you must abide.

CROQUET ANYONE ?

2006-09-02T19:43:00.000-07:00

Way to Go Mr.McGee - Croquet is your game! Thank you Jonathan for the joy you bring to Grandpa!

"SEAL OF APPROVAL"

2006-09-02T19:34:00.000-07:00

Grandpa and Daniel had a great time sailing around the island to observe and enjoy the true natives of Catalina. You're great Mr. McGoo !! Thanks for a super fun time

ROUND AND ROUND WE GO...

2006-09-02T19:21:00.000-07:00

Grandpa and Penny making their rounds !

Thank you Penny for being the best # 1 grandaughter a grandpa could have

Up, Up and Away!

2006-09-02T18:43:00.000-07:00

In his wistful song, "Dayton, Ohio, 1903," Randy Newman sums up a pastoral world: "Let's sing a song of long ago, when things could grow and days flowed quietly/The air was clean and you could see, and folks were nice to you," he sings.

Celebrating 60 years young on a parasail in Catalina! What a thrill to be above the water and observe the beauty of the sky.
Would I do again?
You bet!

THE FRAGRANCE OF LOVE

2006-08-23T10:48:00.000-07:00

The fragrance of love is the most beautiful scent
It brings joy to my heart and my soul
It takes me away to places I love
It makes me complete and so whole

Let the fragrance of love give life to your being
Let it permeate down deep in your soul
Then let it flow freely to those that you love
until you have reached the last goal

Honoring My Kids

2006-08-13T13:57:00.000-07:00

There's comes a time in a daddy's heart that all he wants to do his hold his children close to him. As I think of each of my children I'm reminded that they are precious gifts from God.

My first born, Freddy, was given to his mother and me to help us learn what it means to be parents. I gave him my name Fred, which means peacemaker, with the prayer that one day he would take with him through his life the qualities of peace. Those qualities are that of loving and understanding others, willing to give of himself to help others find their way, and of being willing to sacrifice for others that they would come to know the prince of peace, our Lord Jesus Christ. Our prayers have been answered and the Lord is to be praised. Thank you Freddy for being the man God wants you to be.

Isaac, which means laughter, has truly brought joy to this daddy's life. How proud I am to watch him live out his life with the determination of honoring God and loving his family.The Lord has given Isaac a quick mind and a quick wit.Thank you Isaac for bringing joy and laughter to our family and to the world.

Annie, "my liitle girl," draws deep love from this daddy's heart. She has always displayed a love and compassion for others. Her beautiful smile and her loving spirit are evident to all. Thank you Annie for being like sunshine, bringing light and warmth to all around you.

"Ohh See the Moon"

2006-08-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

"Ohh see the moon shining up above

Ohh what a lovely night to be in love

Ohh I want to linger

Ohh a little longer

Ohh I want to linger here with you.

Who me? Yes you!"

This was a little ditty mom and I would serenade each other with as we took walks in the moonlight. After 36 years she still is the only one I want to linger and stay with.
I love you Becky and don't you forget it!

Let the Lower Lights be Burning

2006-07-14T15:08:00.000-07:00

Brightly beams our Father's mercy
From His lighthouse evermore,
But to us He gives the keeping
Of the lights along the shore.
Let the lower lights be burning!
Send a gleam across the wave!
Some poor fainting, struggling seamanYou may rescue, you may save.
Dark the night of sin has settled,Loud the angry billows roar;Eager eyes are watching, longing,For the lights along the shore.
Trim your feeble lamp, my brother!
Some poor sailor, tempest-tossed,
Trying now to make the harbor,In the darkness may be lost.-
P.P. Bliss -

We Never Know Where Our Light Might Shine !!

THIRTY-SIX WONDERFUL YEARS

2006-06-30T13:16:00.000-07:00

THE WAY WE WERE

THE WAY WE ARE...

The most beautiful girl in the world entered my world in1968. She came to Arizona Bible College in Phoenix not knowing what God had in store for her. I first saw her on the balcony of the dorms and said to myself "That's the girl I'm going to marry." We dated for a short time and decided in January 1969 to become engaged. We were engaged for a year and 5 months (An awfully long time to wait!). Then on July 3, 1970, I claimed her as my own. Now 36 years later she's still the most beautiful girl in my world.

THE LIGHTHOUSE

2006-06-28T18:12:00.000-07:00

As I cross on life's tumultuous seas,sailing from earth to Heaven's bright shore.Christ is like a mighty lighthouse,Helping me to navigate my course.He guides me safely through tides of temptation,Over dangerous reefs of sin.Lighting my way through dark troubled waters,'til the glorious port of Heaven I win.-

Author unknown

LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE

2006-06-28T12:18:00.000-07:00

“You're here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don't think I'm going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I'm putting you on a light stand. Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:15-17 (The Message)

I Love Being Your Dad!!!

2006-06-18T06:58:00.000-07:00

None of us can guarantee how our children will turn out. But our goal is to provide good values, protection, security, discipline, love, faith, and the many other qualities we ourselves possess and seek to develop in our own lives. In the process, we get to know a few wonderful people--our own children.

William L. Coleman

Memories begin in the heart of a child

and are stored in the mind, forever they're filed.

How sweet are the memories that make my heart glad

as I think of my children and of being their Dad.

My hope and my prayer for my children is this,

that they love their own children and are abundantly blessed.

Thanks for the memories, your love and your care,

Don't forget that your dad will always be there.

Thank you Freddy, Isaac, and Annie for filling my life with joy.

Love,

Dad

Sophia Love

2006-06-07T07:15:00.000-07:00

What Can a Smile Do ?

A smile can bring light into a dark room.

A smile can bring joy to a family when there is sadness all around them.

A smile can warm a heart that has been left out in the cold.

A smile can create calm on a stormy sea.

A smile can encourage a dispondent spirit.

A smile gives a mommy and a daddy something to look forward to.

A smile is what a grandpa does when he holds his precious granddaughter.

May your hearts be filled with joy as you look at that sweet smile.

My Sweet Daughter Annie

2006-05-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

My sweet daughter Annie
What a beautiful girl

With a smile on her face
And hair filled with curls.

Today is her birthday
she's turned 29

Her life is so blessed
Her life is just fine.

Her greatest blessing is her family
David and Jonathan and sweet Emily.

God bless you my daughter
May your day be real happy

These words are from me
your dear old Pappy

The Boys in Blue

2006-04-17T20:53:00.000-07:00

LITTLE BOY BLUE COME BLOW YOUR HORN

THE SHEEPS IN THE MEADOW

THE COWS IN THE CORN

WHERE IS THAT LITTLE BOY

WHO LOOKS AFTER THE SHEEP?

HE'S UNDER THE HAY STACK FAST ASLEEP

GRANDPA AND DANIEL ARE BUDDIES ON EASTER

The Martin Clan, circa 1957

2006-03-29T06:51:00.000-08:00

Here's the "Smiling"Martin Clan in 1957 - I was 10 or11 years old (just like Penny ). I remember there was a door to door photographer who came and my mother got us all together for this fun picture. ( My dad was probably working ) All of us had big smiles except for that cat that my sister Gay is holding or strangling. We really had the look of a typical 50's family. Barney was probably 16, John 15, Jeanne' 14, Gay 13, Hal 12, and Olen 7 or 8. I'm glad for all the great adventures we shared during this wonderful times of our lives.

A Date With Grandpa

2006-03-19T19:29:00.000-08:00

Grandpa and P.J. on a wonderful evening together.

My letter to P.J.

My dearest P.J.,

I want to thank you for allowing me to escort you to a marvelous event this past Sunday evening.

You were the most eye catching girl in the room Your attire was exquisite.

I watched as others stared in awe at your beauty. You truly have a pulchritudnous physiogomy. It made me proud to be your companion for the evening.

I do hope we will have opportunity soon to have another evening of meaningful discourse.

I pray this epistle finds you content and joy filled.

Lovingly yours, Grandpa

The Original Leprechaun - My Dad

2006-03-19T18:16:00.000-08:00

My Get Up and Go Has Got Up and Went

How do I know my youth is all spent?
Well, my get up and go has got-up and went.
But in spite of it all, I am able to grin
When I think where my get-up has been.

Old age is golden, I’ve heard it said
But sometimes I wonder as I get into bed.
My eyes on the table, my teeth in a cup,
My ears in a drawer until I get up.
Ere sleep dims my eyes I say to myself,
Is there anything else I should lay on the shelf?
And I’m happy to say as I close my door,
My friends are the same, only perhaps even more.

When I was young my slippers were red,
I could kick up my heels right over my head.

As I grew older, my slippers were blue,
But still I could dance the whole night through.
Now I am old, my slippers are black,
I walk to the store, but puff my way back.

Since I’ve retired from life’s competition,
I busy myself with complete repetition.
I get up in the morning, dust off my wits,
Pick up the paper and read the obits.
If my name is missing, I know I’m not dead,
So I eat a good breakfast and go back to bed.

My get up and go has got-up and went
But I ready won’t mind when I think with a grin,
Of all the grand places my get-up has been.

Author Unknown—

It's hard to believe on Dad's birthday this past week he would have been 98! Here's to My Dad...

In the year 1908,

A boy was born in Ohio, the State.

His birthday fell on a very fun day,

When the Irish get happy and gaily they play.

This boy, he was a charmer,

He lived with his family, his father a farmer.

He left home at a very young age,

Through the states West through desert and sage.

His life consisted of jobs that were varied.

He was free as a bird til the time he got married.

He worked hard all his life as he raised his kids, seven.

He 's now taken his flight to a place that's called Heaven.

My dad was a kidder and always a wit,

Now telling Saint Peter a limeric, I bet!

On St. Patrick's Day we'll always remember,

My dad with thoughts that are loving and tender.