*MAKING PROGRESS*

Before I forget, this is a picture of the house we are renting. I took this off my cell phone so it isn't of good quality, but I hope you are able to make it out!

Tomorrow night the Children Of The World Choir is going to be at our Church to sing, dance etc. These are an amazing group of young children who each has a story to tell. I am really looking forward to seeing this group of innocent kids come together, putting aside their differences whether it be back rounds, race, culture, talents and whatever seperates them each individually to worship and bring forth a message that will obviously bear signs of a UNITY that our world so desperately needs, second to God! This is the main reason for this post.

As I look back and remember where I was this time a month ago and see where I'm at today, I sure want to be sure to thank everyone that helped me get to where I'm at... and that goes for everyone who gave any type of help during our move. I can say that we are settling nicely into our home, although I know it takes time to unpack everything I am trying not to let it get to me too bad! So when I look back and remember where I was when I first started this transition for our lives, I can say that we have truly made progress.

As I am sitting here typing this, oodles of thoughts are racing through my mind... and I remember visiting here around this time last year and knowing that in about a year I would be here where we are at, but couldn't even begin to imagine just how far God brought the kids and I. I have learned to trust in Him more. I have always been a "doubting Thomas and for a change I was walking out in faith, stepping back and fully trusting God to lead me. So when I look back to a year ago I really do know that I have made progress!

Again I am taken back to 6 years ago today and I am still shaken by the horrific events that took place in New York, Pennsylvania and the Pentagon. My heart mourns along with the millions whose lives were directly and indirectly affected that day. I have the deepest respect for the heroic efforts of those who served in any way that day and those who gave their lives unselfishly to save the lives of others, and all the men and women who serve our country everyday so that we are still able to experience freedom in so many different ways. May we no longer allow the hatred that is infesting our world today to destroy anymore lives and may we bring God back to every area of our lives and allow Him to bring about a change in each and everyone of our hearts so that sin and hatred will be a thing of the past. May we allow Jesus to bring peace to this world that He came to save! So if we look back on September 11, 2001, are we able to say that things look better today than they did then? Have we made progress and if not... what can we do to bring about a change. I pray that God will give me a heart that is broken for the lost and dying in this world, until then we may never see a change. ~Blessings

*JUST A LITTLE CRAZINESS CONTINUES*

Things have been CRAZY around here but I am ready to see some signs of "normal"... if there is or ever will be such a thing again! But through it all I can say that things have been going pretty good!

The kids are adjusting to school and doing quite well! This is the first time ever that I have heard Kristofer say that the kids at his school like him. He went up to his teacher last week and said to her, Mrs. Wilmoth, I am a little worried. She said how so Kris, and he said, well there is a girl here that told me that she likes me. And the teacher told him, Kris that's good that kids like you, and he said, oh I didn't know that. Everywhere else we have gone Kris has never felt like he belonged or was made to feel like he belonged or could feel comfortable enough to fit into his surroundings. So when the devil or others try to make me feel like that sending my kids to a Christian school isn't worth it, I can firmly say that is absolutely not true! It has always been very important to me that no matter where my kids went to school, they feel safe and comfortable... and I believe now that both of those needs for the kids are being fulfilled! Thank-you God!

At an early age I knew that I was to do something with music, whether it is to write, record, sing or simply minister... I didn't realize till I was much older that God just wanted me to use the gift He gave me for Him. Yesterday I had a try out/audition with our music leader here at our new church... and I get to start practicing with the worship team this coming Sunday! As we all know, in life we will always be disappointed by others who can be unkind or stand in the way of us using the talents God has given to us, but I know from personal experience that having great patience pays off! I now know that God had bigger and better plans for me than I could have for myself... His timing is always PERFECT!!!

Our new church really has a good focus for our young children and youth. Katie and Kris are plugged into the children's church and Kyle has fit in nicely to the youth. The teen ministry here is focused on leading our generation of Youth to Christ! The teen ministry is also known as "Soul Changers". This is an awesome outreach to the youth in our area. The teens get to lead church service as well as the worship music. After Sunday morning worship, everyone involved with the youth meets back at the church by 3:00 and they load up the church bus to capacity(approx 60-65 youth) and head out for a 30-40 minute drive up the mountain to a little country church in a town called Copper Hill. First they have worship music that is lead by the band and then one of the Youth Pastors brings the message. Afterwards they eat and have a lot of fun activities planned. I had the opportunity to go with them last week and it was really awesome to see the church packed out and the youth worshiping. The prior week they had approx 63 youth and 8 out of the 63 gave their hearts to Christ! That is awesome!!! Kyle had his first experience playing the lead guitar along with another youth who already plays the lead in the band. He was asked to join the "teen worship band". He is thrilled! He has waited a long time for this moment and I was elated to be able to be there and see it happen. He had really been practicing a lot and playing well over the summer and has improved tremendously! He really did a good job for the first time and was asked to be a part of the new band that they are looking to start in the near future. I took the picture posted on this blog from my cell phone and it isn't real clear and I do apologize that it isn't good, but I can't find my digital camera since we moved. (Kyle is in the green shirt)

Anyways, for now that's an overview of what's been happening here. When I get more settled I will be able to post more often. We have church tonight and I gotta keep busy! Blessings to All! :-)

*2 WEEKS DOWN - ONLY A ZILLION MORE TO GO*

It is hard to believe that the kids have finished their 2nd full week of school! I am still baffled that this is September 1st and that means winter,Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner and will be here before we know it... and I am absolutely not even ready to think about the holidays!!!
The kiddies don't have school on Monday due to Labor Day and I believe that we are going to try to have a picnic of some sort with my brother and his family. My Uncle Joe and Aunt Charlene are coming in tomorrow to finish bringing me the rest of my stuff that wouldn't fit into my rental truck so they'll will get to be here for it, I hope! I don't know what the menu is for Monday but I bought a watermelon when I was at Kroger's last night. (I started craving it the minute I walked in the door and saw it sitting there-isn't that pathetic? Oh dear)

Well I haven't got much time here to blog today. There is a lot of things that I could go unpack,clean or organize... so to be able to look back on the day and feel a small bit of accomplishment...I must keep this short in order to stay focused and busy.

I hope everyone has a pleasant day, but most importantly don't be too busy to stop and listen to God in the quiet! You will be amazed at how much you will notice Him there among the silence!

~Blessings To All~

*IT'S SURE BEEN ONE GREAT ADVENTURE*

I can hardly believe that it has almost been 3 weeks since I last posted and all I can say is "WOW", where has the time gone? These past few weeks have been such a great adventure- with lots of awesome happenings as well as not so awesome... but we managed to pull through and God has given us the strength to do so!

I am finally in my new home. It turned out that I was able to connect with an awesome landlord here that someone in our new church hooked me up with. We have a 3 bedroom brick ranch,(Kyle has claimed a basement room that I was going to use as a game room as a 4th bedroom) not too much yard space which is a bit different from our home in Dover, but it is nice and it will be easy to care for. The hardest part so far for me has been trying to unpack everything pretty much on my own. My new friend Karla from the singles group came over one night last week and she helped us get our living room situated. Thanks Karla! Kyle has been helping when he can.

The kids started school last Monday. (Aug. 20) They are almost finished with their first 2 weeks of school. The transition from public to private school has been relatively easy for them so far, and they all seem to like the switch. Please keep them in your prayers as the year continues on.

Kyle turned 15 on Sunday. I can hardly believe it, but my little Kyle will be able to get his permit in 6 months, depending on how well he behaves. Now I didn't say that because I have problems with him, but there is a lot of responsibilities that comes with driving, such as saving money for the insurance, testing fees, responsibility for school and at home and so on. I will keep you updated if and when that new phase takes place. (someone help) Kyle has been getting a lot of experience here playing his guitar and he has really taken off on learning a lot of songs. He was asked just this past Sunday if he would help start a second band that would alternate weeks to play or fill in when someone wasn't there. This was great Birthday news for him. He has waited a long time to be able to do this and now to see it take shape is exciting for him.

The children's choir director here at Parkway House Of Prayer went around and listened to the kids sing last Wednesday night... I guess she did this without them knowing what she was listening for and Sunday she asked me if I would allow Katie to have one of the many main lead parts? This would include a part to memorize, a solo and some dancing. Of course I said yes and it has been fun so far learning the parts right with her. I know I might be a bit prejudice as we all are when it comes to our own children but when Katie sings I can't help but be filled with joy! She really has almost perfect pitch for an eight year old. I just hope and pray that she continues to use her voice and talents for God! Kris is going to be a part of the children's choir that sings at the Christmas program.

Since I have my computer back I will again be stopping in reading and commenting on all the blogs I used to visit and who knows, maybe some more new ones!

Before I close I would like to say that I appreciate all the thoughts and prayers for me and my family as we stepped out in faith and followed God as He led us here to Virginia. I do miss all my friends and family back in Ohio and I really really miss some people that probably didn't even realize it or know I cared. (Smile) My only regret is that I couldn't bring you all here with me! To all of you, much love and hugz! Thank you for also keeping my father in your prayers. He is ever so ready and patiently waiting to go home to Heaven. Mom has been keeping us updated and I am thankful that Dad has her there with him as a constant, faithful, loving and compassionate wife! Thank you Mom, I love you both!

Well I know that I could post more but my mind has gone blank about what I wanted to post, it's almost midnight and I really need to get some more clothes hung in someone's closet somewhere around here- so I better stay busy before I decide not to and regret it in the morning.

Blessings to All

*A QUICK OVERVIEW*

I just wanted to take a few minutes and let you all know that I will possibly be out of the blog world for a few days or weeks depending on how fast the move and transition take place. Anyways, feel free to email me or leave a comment and I will get back to you as soon as I get settled. I am turning my pc off and packing it away in the next hour or so. sniff sniff ( I am so going to miss the luxury of DSL for awhile) We are heading out for Virginia tomorrow morning after the rental truck is loaded. Blessings To All!

*IT'S BEEN SIMPLY CRAZY AROUND HERE*

Well I am not quite sure that I know just how to begin this post but here goes....

I left July 15th for Virginia to pick up Kyle and was soposed to spend only a week there, but my car broke down and I ended up spending an extra week there before I could make it back to Ohio. After I finally went home 2 weeks later, I ended up going back 6 days later and spent another 4 days there and now I am back in Ohio... but I am leaving this coming Saturday, heading back to Virginia for the last time. Whew! I still can't believe that I am doing this, but God sure is awesome and He had bigger plans for me than I could of envisioned myself. The best part of all this is that I just told God that I was going to go ahead and take that leap of faith, give Him control and whatever He wanted for my life, I was willing to obey. I have such a renewed faith in God and there is no possible way that anyone or anything could ever tell me that God isn't faithful! I have had the chance to just sit back for once and watch God at work, and it is in my own life! He told me to let Him have control and He would never fail me! I am totally amazed and absolutely thankful! Thank- You God! My brother and sister-n-law are coming up and helping me get everything loaded up in the moving truck and then we will make the 5 hour trip back down through the mountains to Roanoke, Virginia. I will still be updating my blogspot account, but it might be a few days or a week before I get in another posting, especially after this coming weekend. The kids are excited and at the same time sad that they will be leaving their neighbors behind, well and their dog that my mom took for us when the Doctor said that Katie couln't be around her anymore. They are starting school on August 20 and I have got 1 week after we get there to get everything ready to go for that.

I better go get some more packing done... I am at this dreaded task alone tonight since my kids went to spend this evening with their dad. Blessings to All!

*WHERE DID THE TIME GO?*

Hello my dear Family and Friends,
Good Grief... I can hardly believe that it has almost been a whole month since I last posted, and what a month it has been. I don't even know where to begin, so I will just start with whatever pops into my head first and even if I go back and forth to a subject and my blogging is out of order... In advance, please forgive me and who's really checking for proper grammar anyways? LOL (not me, I'm normally not like that, sometimes a bit on the Obsessive Compulsive side)

I hope that all my friends and family wherever you may be, have been well since I blogged or spoke to you last!

Many of you have asked about my father and I wanted to say that he is still here with us and that he is getting weaker everyday. My family and I appreciate all your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time and I can't thank- you enough. We serve an Awesome God who is always willing and able to give comfort when needed! I also wanted to say that I am so proud of my father... his picture made the front cover of Farm and Ranch Living Magazine for the August/September issue. (www.farmandranchliving.com) He is pictured on the cover with his red Farm All Super M. The picture was taken at the Florida Fly Wheelers where my dad so often came in first place in the tractor pulls in the class he would pulled in (THERE'S NOTHING QUITE LIKE A JOHN DEERE... UNTIL A FARMALL IS NEAR! as quoted to me by my nephew, Todd) I love you dad and I'm so proud of you!!!

As most of you already know... I am taking a huge leap of faith and in the next few weeks myself and my 3 children will be making a move to Roanoke, Virginia. I have so many people here that I am going to miss terribly... and you all know who you are! I have family and friends that I have known for almost 20 years where I am going... this is why it is so hard for me to make this post and one of the many reasons why I haven't been able to post for awhile. I have an awesome church family that I have grown to love more than they could possibly imagine and it is going to be so hard to have to say "see you sometime soon", because I could never say goodbye. Tonight at church it was so hard to hold back the tears or emotions, or even look people in the eye, but I was able to hold it together the entire service... then I just had to go home. Well enough of this for now or I will need to get my tissues.

While I was in Virginia, I had a freaky thing happen to my car. The right front spring broke and punctured a hole in my new tire. Now at the time one might think that I was the victim of some silly teens playing a prank since we were at camp and my sister-n-law also had a flat tire. But that was definitely not the case. I had to have my car towed down the mountain the final day of camp, then waited 10 days before my brother had a free day from work to fix it. I can say that God sure was looking out for the kids and I because if this would of happened while driving, we might not be here!

Because of our extra week in Roanoke, Kyle was able to attend another youth camp. He went with the new church we will be attending and headed for AYC aka Appalachian Youth Challenge in Pennsylvania. Man did he ever do some traveling this summer! Just ask him about it. He was gone for a month.

Kristofer is away at Camp Nuhop. (www.campnuhop.org) I believe that this was his 5th year there. This year he chose to attend science camp so while there, they are taking 3 day trips to Cleveland to go to the Science Center, Cleveland Zoo, and the Natural History Museum.

I really miss my daughter! I left her with my brother and sister-n-law in Virginia so that I could bring my niece and nephew with me to help pack things up. We are heading back to Virginia on Saturday after I pick Kris up from Nuhop. I will be coming back to Ohio till about the end of August and then making our move. I do have until the end of September so if I have to wait till then I do have the time. If anyone would like to have a packing party or just to hang out and chat with me... please feel free to stop in or give me a holler!

I apologize that I don't have any pictures to post at this time, but every time I tried to use my digital camera, the batteries wouldn't hold up and I kept replacing them with new ones. I sure hope that nothing is wrong with my cam, but such is my luck! grrr

Well I could go on and on, but I think that I will rest my brain for a bit. I will post more soon! Blessings to All! Leslie