Resource Mom

Dates with Daddy

2008-02-14T09:42:00.000-08:00

Dates with Daddy

It started a few years back, after my dad, in his
early 60’s became disabled after a motorcycle
accident. He was in the hospital and rehab for a good
part of a whole year. But when he got better, his life
was completely changed. My mom was still working and
he had many days he was, ‘in town’ for Dr appointments
and whatnot by himself. I was in my “full-time mom”
stage and he called me at least once a week to meet
him for lunch. He’s always been a social person and to
him, having lunch out alone was the ultimate waste. We
met at salad bars, café and diner’s., exploring the
local landscape of mid-priced eating establishments.
What a treat for a man who spent most of his life on
the farm, 20 miles from even the closed fast food. He
was like a kid in a candy store. We spent a great deal
of our time chatting about the kids or other personal
issues. The conversations aren’t as important as the
fellowship.
Over the next five years many things changed but our
dates remained a constant. My parents moved to town,
my mom retired. Dad was diagnosed with diabetes.
Through poor health, strokes and blindness, the dates
didn’t change. This last Christmas, I decided to make
an official commitment, an intentional effort to spend
time alone with my dad. Every Friday, rain or shine,
we go out. We do whatever he wants, usually estate
sales, then we go out to eat.
This doesn’t seem much like an incredible story
unless you know our history. We are not a typical
father and daughter. He was an abusive father and I
was his disappointment of a teen. The interactions we
had in those turbulent years would not lead you to
believe we could have this kind of relationship now.
Some how he sees me differently now, maybe I am
different, less sensitive, less confrontational… But
he is also more accepting and less critical. We have
many comments from onlookers and wait staff. “It’s so
sweet of you to be here with your dad.” Sweet wasn’t
the word, it was more like a miracle, miracle of
grace and forgiveness.

Boomi'

2008-01-30T11:10:00.000-08:00

My tween's favorite and the Legendy, Toby Mac, wont be coming very close to us, but maybe others will enjoy this tour.

Crazy Beautiful

2008-01-10T11:48:00.000-08:00

The Theme to the 2008 Mother/Daughter Retreat Scheduled for April 4th-6th at Butman Camp. More Details to follow. Enjoy and ponder the lyrics courtsey of Air1.com
Chasen - Crazy Beautiful
From the album Chasen

Chasen – Crazy Beautiful
From the album – Shine Through The Stars

Everybody’s been there
everyone’s the same
but mostly we don’t care
isn’t that a shame
We bring us down face after face
the inside is beautiful but the outside we want to change.
We want to change.

Chorus
Whoa you’re oh so beautiful,
you don’t need anyone’s approval
You’ve got to believe in your self you know you are
You’re crazy beautiful

There's no need to change
We're different but the same
In the eyes of the King
We're beautifully made
In his image we're made

Take a look it’s all around you
See the world from different views
The way you shine from the inside
I know with out a doubt
It’s more than what you’ll be
In the world’s eyes.

Whoa you’re oh so beautiful, you don’t need anyone’s a approval
You’ve got to believe in your self you know you are

You’re crazy beautiful

Lyrics may not be reproduced

Winter Wonder

2008-01-10T10:40:00.000-08:00

Hoping you are using this cozy season to revel in God's Wonders,

New Season

2007-09-08T21:23:00.000-07:00

I love Fall and as we approach Hebraic calendar's New YEAR, I enter a new season. I am closing down the retail space, The Gathering Place, in the Courtyard Mall. It has not been a great location for traffic. I am taking "my show on the road" as they say. I will be working with our Church's Children and adult ministries, planning events and prodocts to go. I am also attending Holiday Happening at the Lubbock Civic Center in Mid Nov. But for now, I am having a BIG Clearance on a lot on inventory at the store. Much is 50% off. Come by and xams sshop early. Deb

Moving skit

2007-08-20T20:03:00.000-07:00

I dont know if I'm just emotional or what but this skit really flipped my tear switch. Sometimes it feels good to cry. Get out a Kleenex and enjoy

Rock the Desert

2007-08-10T09:07:00.000-07:00

We are heading to Odessa, Tx to see Hawk Nelson, Barlow Girl and more at Rock the Desert. Click title for Utube of Barlow Girl. Visit http://www.hawknelson.com/ for our fave. see a video at MTV U websight.

In be “tween” the holding and the letting go

2007-07-27T20:50:00.000-07:00

While cleaning out closets, getting ready for a new round of birthday presents, my almost 11 year old daughter decided it was time to pass down her collection of Barbies.
I wasn’t sure that I was ready to be mother to a girl who is “too old” to play Barbies. I tried to talk her out of it. But, with logic beyond her years, she expressed the same sentiment that was ruminating in my own heart.
“I want to be sad about saying good-bye, but I’m not.”

I looked back at the passing of each parenting season with melancholy longing, the memories were sweet. Sure I ooh and gooh over newborns. I love to reminisce over their baby books, but I have always looked forward to the maturing of my kids. What and honor to see the blossoming of my closely guarded prize rose crop. With much pride I parade all my visitors near to admire God's handwork He has so graciously allowed me to be a part of. I cant wait for the late night talks and the excitement of all the new things this tween season holds. Memories are sweet but the anticipation of the delights to come is sweeter still.
“Good-bye, you have always been my favorite princess. Fare thee well and Live long and prosper." She said, as she placed her Belle into the give away box...

Spectacles

2007-07-20T06:13:00.000-07:00

Les Grandes Eaux Nocturns is the evening program around the gardens and fountains of the Castle (Chatau) of Versaille. So large it will take more than one visit to see all the grand statues and water features, music is piped in and sometimes even fireworks to enhance your enjoyment. After the tulips of Holland Rich was a little underwhelmed by the French formal gardens but for those who enjoy art, classical music and a nice evening stroll, this seems perfect.

Click on the title and follow any or all of the links for a taste of classic French culture.

Precious Pearls

2007-07-13T15:00:00.001-07:00

Like a tiny seed, a child enters our lives, not much more than an annoyance and a promise.
You hold her, feed her and protect or as she grows bigger and stronger every day.
The seed pearl must remain inside it’s protect shell of the oyster in order to continue to grow as it is daily bathed and nurtured.
So must our daughters remain under the authority God has placed over her, inside the safety and protection of her home, daily bathed in the word and nurtured towards wisdom..
Parents of the precious pearls of the future,
we must make sure they are safe and protected
until the day comes that they are ready to emerge,
full grown with their own protected surface to guard them.

ICRS

2007-07-11T05:49:00.000-07:00

Hello from International Christian Retailers Show in Atlanta. Maddy and I have met lots of celebrities (Her favs, Hawk Nelson, Casting Crowns)
I had my book signing yesterday, lots of great responses and comments. Who knows what God has for us now.
We went to a Faith Girlz mother/daughter event yesterday. It was fun. I met Nancy Rue, the author of on of the tween series I've been recommending. We had a chat later about the need for parent training and her possibly speaking at an event next summer. Good connections and a love for little girls hearts. She was especially taken by Maddy.
Maddy's favorite book is called "Paddywhack Lane" It is for a book and doll line of Toddlers, very sweet.

The passage of time

2007-06-04T14:11:00.000-07:00

My husband, Richard, turned 39 This past week. I found it useless to tell people I was 39 because they would do something like, wink and say "oh, I get it, 39 and holding" and that greatly annoyed me. I'm not ashamed of my age but I am feeling it more. (especially in my joints) but I wonder if the passage of another biblical "Generation" of 20 yrs had made me more contemplative? Since I am 2 months and a year older than my sweet hubby, I always get to experience these passages first. Let's see how he process it. TICK-TOCK

Keys

2007-05-27T22:28:00.000-07:00

This is a collection of all the keys that this one house used. I love them. deb

Black and White Night

2007-05-25T22:49:00.000-07:00

The "Black and White night" was a hit as the Henderson, and Iserman girls, (and Josephine)put on the Ritz and went out on the town in Paris. We ate at an old private chapel, now 2 stories under ground, that is a traditional French restaurant run by a Cantonese family. We had a great time!

The problem with "Polution"

2007-05-25T22:43:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite pics from our recent Paris trip. I am now a true believer in "Anti-Pollution" Aren't French signs fun?

Aurevoir, France

2007-05-07T09:55:00.000-07:00

We had a spectaculare weekend in the French countryside , L'Oise river valley, in the village of Pierrefonds. Check out the quaint B and B we visited. It is around 150 years old and recently redone. The hosts are Elizabeth and Jacque Dandoy. I'll soon post pics. Check out their websight. See you back in Texas.

Tulips in Holland

2007-04-30T03:23:00.000-07:00

Bonjour

2007-04-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

Here we go again. Maddy, Wesley and I have been trying to meet Rich and Nathan in Paris for a week. First, the passports were late and yesterday our flights were canceled due to storms in Dallas. Now we are trying one more time. Hopefully by this time tomorrow we will be jetlagged in France. I'll blog pics soon. Blessings deb

Jawbone of an Ass

2007-04-14T19:54:00.000-07:00

I told my son that I believe the true lesson of Sampson's story for me is that a lot of times, we make our own trouble. By not controling my own jawbone, I make an ass out of myself. (Then we get ourselves into a lot of trouble. We want to blame "bad guys" like Philistines but really, isn't it just reaping what we sowed and blaming the weeds? But,more on this later.)
"I thought the jawbone represented the Power of God?" my son commented.
"I think in Bible symbolism it does, but I also believe God is big enough to have known that "Ass" would mean multiple things in our culture today. Like in Shrek, when Puss-n-boots says "You still look like an ass to me." He's saying he still looks like a donkey, but also that he thinks his is a metaphorical ass too. It means a person is full of themselves and makes a fool of themselves because of it."
"Oh, you mean like Oscar in A Shark's Tale?" my son asked.
"Exactly, you got it." I'm so impressed at how easily he understands when I explain it in terms he can relate to.

Wesley's Heart

2007-04-10T21:31:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all the prayers for Wes's Heart. The Murmur and his spiritual heart. We received some good news. The blood pressure meds he's been on for 2 months is reducing the leak. He will continue on it for a year. He also asked Jesus into his heart on Easter Eve, while taking a break from viewing an movie on the crucifixion (cartoon) "Mommy, I'm so glad that Jesus gave His blood for me." This is a tradition in the Griffin Family, Uncles Howard Adam did the same thing and were baptized Easter Sunday. We'll give him a few more years to go for the wet part. But, all these prayers for his heart are blessing us all in many ways. THANKS SO VERY MUCH, Blessings, deb

Walk to Emmaus

2007-04-06T08:43:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I recently had the honor of attending a Walk to Emmaus retreat. I have know about the events and have sent numeral letters of blessing over the years. But this is the time God chose for me to participate, and we know, God's time is always right. My experience was much like what I felt at church camp growing up or other womens retreats since, but more personally intense. Like the crucible of pledging, or what I have heard about boot camp in the military, these experiences tend to bring up some of our dross(impurities in the the gold) For God is always at work to make precios jewels of us all. I layed it down and stumbled a bit, and my sisters in Christ were there to help me back up again. Please consider where God is calling you this Easter Season to allow Him to do His continuing work in you. I will be happy to sponsor anyone who feels it is there time to meet with the Savior on the road to Emmaus. Yours in Him, De Coloures, deb

Christian Book Club

2007-03-07T19:59:00.000-08:00

Announcement:Want to read some great books and chat with the authors? Then check out the American Christian Fiction Writers' Book Club. The ACFW Book Club gives fans of Christian fiction the opportunity to communicate with each other, chat with ACFW authors, and discuss books.Book Club participants are invited to join an e-mail group set up to facilitate announcements and host discussions about the current reading selection. Members will be eligible for monthly free book drawings.
To join, send a blank e-mail to acfwbookclub-subscribe@yahoogroups.com or visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/acfwbookclub and click "join this group." You will receive a confirmation e-mail after joining. Follow the instructions given in the e-mail to complete your subscription to this e-mail list.
Each month, club members have an opportunity to participate in an on-line chat with an ACFW published author. Chats will be announced in advance so Club members have the opportunity to read the featured book. Book Club chats will be held on the ACFW website in the chat room at 7:00 p.m. CST on the first Monday of the month following the month the book is read.Currently, the club is talking about Rachel Hauck's Lost in NashVegas. And then it's on to Mary Connealy's Petticoat Ranch before tackling sci-fi for some variety. Previous authors have included: Robin Lee Hatcher, Tracey Bateman, Colleen Coble and Liz Curtis Higgs. Check it out.

Her Dormant season

2007-02-26T06:59:00.000-08:00

Reaching the waters edge, she looked out upon the frozen surface. In the still frigid air this pristine world seemed lifeless. But she knew it only appeared that way. Under the ice, life carried on. A frozen, almost motionless shell that actually protects the vigor beneath. She knew life was never truly gone. Frozen, preserved, pressed down beneath, it was hidden for a season.
She breathed in the cold air and looked around. Frozen can actually be beautiful. The crystalline encasement of every minute detail. Leaves and branches, every grass blade magnified, like a thousand jewels sparkling beneath her feet. Hanging from every tree, crystal chandeliers. More rare than swavorsky crystals, theses jewels would soon be gone. Precious, delicate and then, a memory.
Looking down again to the lake, there stands a leaf upon the glassy surface, caught in a moment of vertical movement. Take warning, for the leaf scarcely knew this action would be the one preserved.
But what of the life below? Some dormant, some vigorous, no reproduction, but still life survives. Do they curse the cold or accept this season as part of life?
How much light passed through to remind them of a warmer season to come? At places on the pond seems almost translucent. Does the life below gather and jockey for a place to peer out the window? Do they even care what goes on above?
Delores laughs at herself, pondering such foolish things. But this did give her hope. Maybe her cold dormant season would soon be over. Only four more years and she would be old enough to marry without her parents permission.

Grace and Peace to you

2007-02-23T07:41:00.000-08:00

Grace
I have known just of few women if my life who have been the true essence of grace to me. Woman who carry and express themselves in such a way that you are drawn to them in a mysterious nonsexual attraction. I have truly desired to exude this grace. I have prayed for it, looked for it, even studied it. Soon turning 40 and still believing it has eluded me, I have all but given up the pursuit. When, out of the blue, I was surprised my a compliment that totally stunned me.
"Well, you just have that kind of grace." was her comment.
"What?" I replied in shock, "I have prayed for grace, but I’ve decide it wasn’t a gift God wanted to give me."
"Well you have it." was her simple reply.
In my word study on Grace, the Old Testament word Strong # 2580 represents the classical Christian concept of the unmerited favor of God but also the concept from an objective point of view of beauty, pleasant and precious. It comes from the root word Strong’s #2306 -"to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior or a gracious act to someone in need" That is the kind of grace I want to exude, and encourage in my daughter.
Many times in the bible God changed the names of the people He moved in. My character I have been blogging about, Delores (a.k.a. brought forth in pain) Will be changed to Grace.

Christian Writer's Guild

2007-02-18T19:31:00.000-08:00

The convention at the Broadmoore in Colorado Springs was great. I learned a lot, met some really nice people, got a break from work and got some article assignments from Christian magazine editors. More to come on that last one as soon as I move forward on this writer's journey. Liz Curtis Higgs, the keynote speaker was very funny, real and inspiring. She is definately the kind of speaker I aspire to be like. Blessings to you all. Here is Jerry B Jenkins, the head of the guild and co-author of The Left Behind books. Click on the title and you can check out the guild. Definately a good route to follow writing dreams.

Curmudgeon

2007-02-12T09:32:00.000-08:00

There is an old story my dad used to tell me about a cantankerous old coot who was never pleased. Every morning he woke up complaining. The sky was too bright, the sun too sunny. There was too much to do, not enough time. But mostly the industrious efforts of his jolly wife that seem to inspire the curmudgeon comments. She must have been sincerely convinced that if she truly gave him nothing to complain about, he would eventually praise her. She daily went about her work, with a song on her lips and chewing gum in her mouth.
The day early in their marriage when she felt she had come the closest was a morning when the coffee smelled exceptionally good. The day promised to be a beautiful one. All the hard preparation of planting had been done, the garden was in full bloom from the recent quenching spring rains and there were only a few chores to be done around the house that day. She was hoping that later they may even be able to take a drive.
As her man sat down at the breakfast table, she joyfully place in front of him his favorite breakfast, two eggs- one pouched and one fried. She stood and waited beside him after she poured his coffee, added sugar and stirred in the fresh cream. Would he smile?
He took a drink of the fresh squeezed home grown orange juice she so painstakingly had strained to make sure there were no seeds or large chunks of pulp which he hated. He began to eat his eggs with a grunt, glancing over his shoulder annoyed at her hovering. She scurried back to the stove to replace the coffee and looked on expectantly from a distance. As he mopped up the last of the perfectly cooked over medium egg yokes with the freshly baked biscuits she rose early to bake. There was a pause as she moved slowly closer to hear his report...
“Well, how was it?” She asked
While pushing back from the table, all he could think to say was,
“You poached the wrong damn egg!"

Feeding the pigs

2007-02-12T08:17:00.000-08:00

The cold brittle cracking sound below her feet echoed the feeling in her heart. The twice daily treks out to break the ice in the feeding trough is a necessary nuisance on the in cold winter months on a cotton farm in the Panhandle of Texas. There seems to be a lot of those nuisances. Much of a farm wife’s life was filled with them. It’s not the stupid livestock’s fault that the weather is so cold. They don’t seem to mind that much anyway, guess they are used to it. She feels like that often, a nuisance that must be taken care of, basic needs met. She wont stay and pet them, even pigs like to be engaged, but they do need to eat and drink. Starving them would be unconscionable but hurling a few curse words and a whack on the back did help her get out the annoyance their upkeep causes her.
Once outside and accustomed to the cold, she used this alone time as she did much of her time, to slip off into her fantasy world. Her dreams of world travel often involved missionary work with possibly a whisper of lost or neglected love. They would long for and desire her but she would always be drawn away, like a romantic young characters in classic novels. Her devotion to the work of the Lord would always take her away. Morning and night and increasingly more in the day she would slip off into this world. Books were her loyal companions She was the stoic heroine , such as Jane Eyre.. Admired for her intelligent and strong character. Practicing her melancholy sighs and far away stares, wherever she imagined to be, it was far more interesting than being the unloved daughter of a dirt farmer in West Texas.
The cold had long since quit affecting her limbs, for once numb she found it much easier to stay that way, at leaste that is what she has convinced herself. That is the way she has lived her emotional life ever since the night she let herself believe the truth. She is the "not" in her family..."not his favorite daughter, not even close" She is not open, not loving and not affectionate. And definitely not her father’s idea of what a woman should be like. All words she had heard from his own lips. She did not let him know that it hurt her but if her own father felt that way about her, there would be no need to knock on that door for any sort of approval any more.
SLAM!! The door of the barn banged shut, and Sophia spun around to she what had caused it. Just the wind. She went over and bolted it closed. If it was left flapping in the high wind for long, the hinges would break off. Disturbed from her muse she remembers it is time to catch the bus to school. She could resume her fantasies there. But now she must grab her books and run out to the farm to market road that ran in front of their drive way, about 100 yards away.

For those disturbed by my blog

2007-02-08T20:01:00.000-08:00

Just want to let anyone concerned know that the last blog "Secrets and Lies" and some others past, and many future writings are fictional musings in preparation for my next literary work, possibly "Historical Fiction" I am meeting with editors next week to test for marketability with various publishers. Sorry if this caused any stress.

Secrets and lies

2007-02-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

Secrets and lies, they grow upon each other, even after years, lifetimes and even generations, the curse of incest held all in it’s lair. The wretched truth was something she believed mothers and grand-mothers must had known all along. Accomplices to this unspeakable crime, they were afraid of acknowledging the truth for it would make them part of the sin, the rape of their daughter’s innocense. Brought bluntly to their attention, shocked they would deny and turn away choosing only to protect the thin veil of dignity they used to cover their shame for the lack of bravery they had in their youth to confront their aggressors and put and end to the abusive cycle.

Be sure your sins will find you out. And what about the moments when he was alone? Was it self-righteousness or shame that led him to stare blankly into nothingness and wonder why he lingered here? For 20 years past his desire to depart he hovered between a living and passing on. Was he just reaping what he sowed? He never showed me any signs of regret or repentance. There were not death bed confessions, tears of remorse, just blank stares or steely glares. His wide-eyed quavering gaze had a fearful feel to it, as if he was about to blurt out, “You know my deep secret. You will be the one who brings down my gingerbread house of self righteousness.
Sympathetic visitors were bluntly confronted with the request to help him end his suffering. Their pity and well wishes meant nothing if they would not help him die. It was never about anyone else, not even his hardworking spouse of 60 some odd years. She had labored to please him, enduring countless indignities at his hand and now she has nothing left, not even her mind, only a frozen sardonic expression of shock and defiance.
Back to the secret, it, of course was the sexual abuse I endured at my father, grand-father and even uncles hands. But the lies were more hurtful. The primary one being that women must choose. They cannot embody strength and beauty, feminine grace and wisdom. They must either be desirable or smart, not both. I chose smart, not realizing that before I had a chance to choose beauty chose me.

Parental consent

2007-01-28T19:23:00.000-08:00

Here is the form to fill out to become a part of our New Girl's Club.
Just click on the title and it will open a Acrobat reader page, print, fill out, mail.
We will have once a month meeting til summer and then we want to plan a 3-5 day daycamp with lots of fun Victorian activities. Call me at 771-6987 or come by the Gathering Place for more info. Blesssings, deb

Pray for Wesley's Heart

2007-01-26T21:24:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to inform all those who have not heard, Wesley was diagnosed with a heart murmur last year. When we saw the pediatric cardiologist, he found 2 murmurs. We have his one year check up last Thur. It seems his condition has progressed. He wants us to put him on high blood pressure meds. We decided to seek a second opinion. We will update you as soon as we figure out, when where and who.

Plugged In Online

2007-01-21T20:44:00.000-08:00

Here is the websight I have recogmended to help you decide if a movie is appropriate for your family. Plugged In Online
http://pluggedinonline.com

Why talk about it?

2007-01-21T20:40:00.000-08:00

I know I may need to go back to some dark places to find a new way out...

Super Family

2007-01-19T17:31:00.000-08:00

A fun dinner time discussion went something like this:

My children decided, after watching "The Incredibles" that we are also a family of Super Heroes.
I even told a lady in the bathroom at the movie that our costumes were Medieval, since we like to go to Renaissance festivals . She only gave me a wary smile and walked away.
Today at the breakfast table we decided on our super identities. My daughter was the instigator, while wearing a sparkle shirt which said "Daddy’s Girl" is now ‘DADDY’S SUPER GIRL’. Her brother, whose quote of the century is,
"Here it comes...(flaaaaaarrrppp!) That felt goood."
Well, we’ll just say that passing gas is his unique talent. As a family we decided a while back that we do not believe in killing, so we have always found ways to turn cops in robbers into to a fun chase that leaves the offenders incapacitated for a time just long enough to call 911. Then we send them to jail, to receive their just reward. Brother’s "gas" is just the thing to accomplish that.
Daddy has the manly ability to belch a whole is things. It was a little harder for everyone to agree on an appropriate persona for Mommy. I first suggested that I be "Super Spender" to which daddy replied, "Yeah." But "Daddy’s Super Girl" aptly asked, "What can you do?"
"I spend a lot of money, of course" I said with great pride
"Thats’s not helpful." she replied wryly
"That’s what Daddy thinks." I said, with my characteristically boisterous and explosive laugh.
The shocked look on peoples faces and the tendency for Daddy’s Super Girl to plug her ears made me decide that this is it. A truly God-given skill I possess, and something that, I’m proud to say has made it on several "Things I like about my mom" lists. I have laugh so unfettered that I have even had to apologize for it. It tends to garner unwanted public attention from adjacent diners,( which my husband HATES.)
"Sonic Laugh!!" I exclaimed, which brought a chorus "Yeahs"

A Cluttered mother's vindication

2006-12-25T21:48:00.000-08:00

"Studies are piling up that show that messy desks are the vivid signatures of people with creative, limber minds (who reap higher salaries than those with neat “office landscapes”) and that messy closet owners are probably better parents and nicer and cooler than their tidier counterparts."
This quote is copied and paste from an article in the New York Times called "Saying Yes to Mess". I found it... encouraging or at leaste satisfying to know that others justify our disorder as well as I do.
Check it out at, http://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/21/garden/21mess.html?em&ex=1166936400&en=00238cd5e983e54a&ei=5087%0A

Free gift for you

2006-12-21T20:06:00.000-08:00

First Amazon review

2006-12-21T19:16:00.000-08:00

Stopping an Evil Cycle, December 20, 2006
Reviewer:
D. R. Sudduth - Knowing up front that this story was an allegory greatly buffeted my ability to enjoy it. While not an arduous read, this book will best be read several times. The lessons are that important. All of us have faults and imperfections we would like to have swept under the rug. Maybe bringing these faults to light and learning from them is the best way to stop future generations from suffering the same fate. Perhaps since many have their own tattered gowns, this story will be uplifting. Ms. Henderson shows us that we should not forgive and forget, but forgive, heal, educate and prevent.

Finally someone actually wrote review for me on my book at the Amazon websight. Please join him, good or bad any comments help.

Gathering

2006-12-18T19:32:00.000-08:00

The Gathering Place had the inaugural Tea Event- a Mother/Daughter Blessing Tea on Saturday, Dec 16th. I planned for 24 but in the final count, 2 seatings totaling 12 was more than busy enough. There were many laughs, a few flying tea sandwiches, and even a squirting cream puff, but the tears of love and joy were the most telling sign that the event was a success. The turkey tea sanwiches and orange scones offered up by Bobo Cuisine and the Peach Tea from Brownlow were the favorites. I hope that all who came were as blessed as I was. Thank you for all your patience and time.

KJV New Testament Greek Lexicon
1. Strong's Number: 1997

Parts of Speech
ep-ee-soon-ag-o-gay'
Noun Feminine
Definition
1.
a gathering together in one place
2.
the (religious) assembly (of Christians)

Hebrews 10:19-25
19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness
1. F33 to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, 20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated F34 for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; 21 And having an high priest over the house of God; 22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) 24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. 26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, 27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

Jamieson, Fausset, Brown, Commentary
25. assembling of ourselves together--The Greek, "episunagoge," is only found here and
2 Thessalonians 2:1 (the gathering together of the elect to Christ at His coming, Matthew 24:31). The assembling or gathering of ourselves for Christian communion in private and public, is an earnest of our being gathered together to Him at His appearing. Union is strength; continual assemblings together beget and foster love, and give good opportunities for "provoking to good works," by "exhorting one another" (Hebrews 3:13). IGNATIUS says, "When ye frequently, and in numbers meet together, the powers of Satan are overthrown, and his mischief is neutralized by your likemindedness in the faith."

Moloch

2006-11-29T18:03:00.000-08:00

I have been studying about the Amorite God known as "The god of unnatural cruelty" People were reported to have sacrificed their infants in fire to him and committed the older ones to his service by making them pass through the fire. Wow, how unfelling those parents had to be...or at leaste deluded. Are we so different? I see many kids who seemed to have been sacrificed to the god of Hedonism, selfishness and self gratification. A father who leaves his wife and 2 boys for a young "entertainer". Children kicked out of the house so they wont mess up the decorations. Parents who wont take their kids to church unless they ask, and not even then.

Moloch in medieval texts. Like some other gods and demons found in the Bible, Moloch appears as part of medieval demonology, as a Prince of Hell. This Moloch finds particular pleasure in making mothers weep; for he specialises in stealing their children. According to some 16th century demonologists Moloch's power is stronger in December.It is likely that motif of stealing children was inspired by the traditional understanding that babies were sacrificed to Moloch.

In modern Hebrew language the expression sacrifice something/someone to the Molech means to give up something valuable or harm someone for an utterly worthless cause.

Sounds a bit like the Forest of Forgotten to me (from The Gown)

Do you have a Vision for God's plan for the ones you Love?

2006-11-22T23:58:00.000-08:00

Proverbs 29:18
"Where there is no vision, the people perish; but he that keepeth the law, happy is he." (King James)

"Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but blessed is he who keeps the law."
Proverbs 29:18 (NIV)
no vision--instruction in God's truth, which was by prophets, through visions, as in 1 Samuel 3:1). People perish--(Compare Margin), are deprived of moral restraints. keepeth the law--has, and observes, instruction (Proverbs 14:11,34, Psalms 19:11).
By Jamieson, Fausset, Brown commentary

I am praying for the vision and the ability to help cast a vision for a generation of moms who seemed to have given up on their responsibility to raise passionate, prepared and purposeful children. Join me in my prayers. deb

My little missionary

2006-11-20T09:18:00.000-08:00

I knew my Maddy had the heart of a missionary at a very young age.
Soon after she asked Jesus into her heart, she turned her concerns to her younger brother.
Nathan could not have been more than 2 when Maddy prayed earnestly "Dear Heavenly Father, Come into Nathan's Heart"
I patiently attempted to explain to her that it had to be at Nathan's request.
Jesus would make his home inside a person's heart only when he is asked by that person.
This did not daunt her in her quest to save her brother's young soul from the flames of eternal hell.
She turned purposefully to her brother and commanded "NATHAN, say 'Jesus, come into my heart!'"
Nathan, involved in some intense play, just ignored her...

Secrets Revealed

2006-11-10T07:39:00.000-08:00

I believe that what happened with Ted Haggard, all the "predators" caught on TV and My Space and every other "Secret" sin will be revealed as early as by the end of the year. As a watchman on the wall I am obligated to warn, every secret place, hidden sin, stolen item, deceptive action or hypocritical comment is a seed sown and the season harvest is coming soon. "God will not be mocked" You will reap what you have sowed! The seeds are almost full grown now and the reaping will be with weeping. Many kingdoms will fall, many households devastated, fortunes lost... But there is still time. If your come clean now, you can remove the power of the secret. It will still be a bad thing, but it will not have the punch and power to ruin your life that it will if you wait till someone else reveals it. Walk back into the daylight, it may be bright and sting your eyes for a while, but it is also warm and happy and free.

Good Gifts

2006-11-09T21:57:00.000-08:00

"If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Father who is in Heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!" Mat. 7:11

Do I know how to give good gifts to my children? Is it as easy as not giving them a snake if they ask for a fish, or not giving them a stone if they ask for bread? What if they ask for the snake, or something else more malicious and dangerous like A... Gun, or a violent video game or a TV with cable in their room? Is giving "good" gifts just giving them what they want? Or is it only giving them good things if they ask for them? What if they don't ask for good things?....

Just a few things to ponder as we head into the "Gift Giving Season".
I have always relished getting everyone the "perfect" gift, one they love even if they would have never thought of it themselves. I never cared much about what they asked for from Santa. I felt the real trick is to get them to ask for what I was planning on buying them. I have been seriously reconsidering my gift giving lately, not only in the light of our "Too much Stuff" but because of the opening of The Gathering Place" I am investigating an idea I call Destiny Blessings. It is about the spiritual and emotional meaning behind what we give, not just the "hot item" on everyone's list. A Destiny Blessing is exquisitely- personal and full of deep thought-out meaning, for the hopes, dreams and prayers we have for our loved ones. How can all that be included in a simple gift? How can I help people find a way to give those kinds of gifts to the ones they love? Do people want that? I guess I'll just have to try and see. Come to our open house on Nov 18th in the Courtyard Mall(next to KK's Craft Mall) and see. We are now open Tue-Sat. 10-6. Drop by any time to see what great things God has brought me to share "Destiny Blessings" You might even find something that will bless you too.

Hedonism or Altruism

2006-11-04T22:19:00.000-08:00

I have been praying lately about why so many people never seem to make it to a higher level of existence. You know the place outside of ourselves where altruism lives. Not a Zen state of being where we meditate all day and try not to offend anyone, but the place where saints in the form of everyday people see that "It is not about me". In a college class we read a book about stages of faith, it moved me and got me thinking about people I knew, the faith of my family and where I wanted to go in my own. We learned that as in physical development there is a natural progression starting at birth and moving up to adulthood. The difference is that many people never make it to the final stage. The potential to continue to growing is present til death. Where or why are some arrested while others life Mother Teressa, Bonhoffer, Martin Luther continue beyond themselves? Is it an accident of circumstances out of ones control or is it a conscious choice? If you know me, you know I believe most of life is a choice.
Hedonism-
1. Pursuit of or devotion to pleasure, especially to the pleasures of the senses.
2. Philosophy The ethical doctrine holding that only what is pleasant or has pleasant consequences is intrinsically good.
3. Psychology The doctrine holding that behavior is motivated by the desire for pleasure and the avoidance of pain.
Altruism

1 : unselfish regard for or devotion to the welfare of others
2 : behavior by an animal that is not beneficial to or may be harmful to itself but that benefits others of its species
I truly desire that I continue out beyond myself or even my family and passionately pursue unselfish love. ">Link

Modern Samaritan?

2006-11-02T16:29:00.000-08:00

My middle son, Nathan, entertained us at supper last night by sharing a Good Samaritan story with a modern day twist.
He felt like he was the traveler, emotionally beat and, left by the side of the road, when his sister and brother enjoyed games with the next door neighbors while he felt left out. He, being emotionally sensitive, went to a corner to hide his tears. Some moments later the girls noticed that his eyes and nose were red and commented "Nathan, you don't look good. You should go inside." (Thinking he may be coming down sick, I'm sure)
As he continued to share the story at the table his eyes welled again as he declared, "They were like the Pharisees, passing me by."
Sister looked confused as she tried to remember the events.
"Then my brother ignored me and he was like the Levite. So, I wanted to be by myself, and I went to the back yard. There I found someone who was will to take the time to bandage my wounds and take care of me..."
We waited with baited breath to see who our son's mysterious rescuer was. "It was Princess!!" He declared with a glowing smile.
Our hyper-active Jack Russell Terrier?
Wow, what a biblical (if not melodramatic) imagination.
We may have a future Billy Graham on our hands.
Here's hoping that you always have someone who is willing to Lick your wounds....blessings,deb

Royalty

2006-10-31T20:24:00.000-08:00

Today, out of the blue and much to my surprise I received my first royalty check from Tate. It wasn't much, $25.00 actually, but it was a nice surprise. I thought I would have to wait til the first quarter(Jan) to receive anything. I also discovered in my daily check of my rating on Amazon that I went from 800,000 something to 300,000 something in my sales rating. I'm not sure what that means but a jump of 500,000 has got to be good!!! How everyone had a safe and fun "Fall Fest" however your family chooses to celebrate. We had a fun time at the Godeke Library as the "Guest storyteller and her merry band of troubadours". I read my favorite since Maddy was 4 "The Princess and the Kiss"Even Rich got into the act and read "The Squire and the Scroll"(both by Jeannie Bishop) while the kids acted it out. Fun was had by all. Blessings, deb

A cord of Three Strands

2006-10-29T20:13:00.000-08:00

"And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him, and a cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart." Ecc 4:12

I have been taught, or maybe I heard it in a sermon once that the 3 strands represents a husband, wife and God. My kids surmised that it is the Trinity that is meant here. These are both good and even Godly answers but is it what I need?
As I asked God in prayer, what are the three that make something, someone "not quickly torn apart" a familiar verse came to mind "And these three remain: Faith, Hope and Love. But the greatest of these is Love" I Corinthians 13:13

Faith, what is it? (other that the substance of things hoped for)
In the frame of parenting, My Faith is my religious beliefs. and for me they include my spiritual heritage. Faith of our Fathers, if you will. I need to share faith stories, not just those from the bible but also of my and my husband's faith walk and even that of our parents and grandparents. This part of our history is often omited because it is so personal but I believe it is pertinent to a child's spiritual maturity to know our struggles, strenghts and weaknesses and how we came to know God and continue to grow in Him. If a parent isn't confident enough to share that with their children, who will?

Hope, as my daughter put it is God and Jesus, not just that I have hope to go to heaven when I die but that God is a benevolent God who has good things planned for me "For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans for hope and a future" Jer 29:11 I know this verse got me through some pretty hopeless times. I need to speak and demonstrate this hope to my children. I need to walk this talk. Do I act like God is on my side? Do I ask Him for those good plans? Do I speak the good destiny to and over my children in their hearing? They need to hear that, daily, weekly, yearly, every chance you get. Bless them with the hope we have for them to grow into the overcomers we know they can be.

Love - This one is simple for me What is love? "God is Love." I John 4:8
Be His love to your kids, love them silly. Love them enough to fight the hard battles. Love them enough to sacrifice our comfort but most of all love them enough to train and discipline them, even when they fight us.

A cord of these three strands were the life line that my parents wove for me before I ventured out into the big wide world. I hope to also do the same for mine...

Preparing a Princess

2006-10-26T07:48:00.000-07:00

Two new princess movies are out this Fall. One night with the King is a film rendition of Tommey Tenny's story of Esther titled "Hadassah" It is about a young, orphaned beauty, raised up out of a persecuted minority to become the most influencial female in the land. It is not only an inspiring story taken from the pages of the bible and history but also stunningly acheived with state of the art cinematography and visual effects. Then there is the story of Marie Antoinette who is raised as royalty betrothed to a wealthy French King at 14 and goes on to become the most infamous female figure of the French revolution, beheaded by the enraged mob for her "let them eat cake" ingnorant attitude for the starving poor.
The contrast of the simular situation of these queens points to the salient issue of parenting in America today. How you might ask? Well, we are all familiar with the Princess culture we have created. All little girls are inundated with princess stories, Disney, fairytale and otherwise from toddlerhood on. But even though true royalty is not at issue here, the little tyrants it creates are. I want my daughter to feel lovely, special, and like a little princess, that is not the problem. I tell my kids, by the worlds' standard, if you live in America, you are rich. I want to train my little rulers to reign as benevolent royalty, seeing the influence they can have as a calling "For such a time as this" like Esther, not as a spoiled tyrant like Marie. How?... What do you think?

In the News...

2006-10-22T19:17:00.000-07:00

This last two weeks have been very busy. I got my first interview and news paper write up. It was in the Lubbock Avelanche Journal, Friday, Oct 20th. You can search the Gown at Lubbockonline.com. You may have to sign up to get on. I also agreed to have a signing event at Barnes and Noble on Nov 12th 2:30-4:30. They offered to send out invites. Send me your address if you wish to be put on the list.

Mardel signing a fun event

2006-10-07T16:35:00.000-07:00

Many blessings this seventh day of October, when the Royal Hendersons plus Princess Hines(next door neighbor seen at Maddy's birthday party right) paraded down to Mardels, gaving out princess rings and book marks. We even sold a few books too. For all those praying for us, thank you. For those who missed the event, we have several more events this month.
1. Next weekend, we will be at the McMurry Homecoming and a book signing is scheduled Saturday Oct 14th 10 am at the Theta Chi reunion in the lobby of the newly renovated Martin Residence Hall. My longtime friend and suite-mate, Josephine will join me.
2.Then, on Oct 21st, at the Odessy bookstore on Broadway in Lubbock I will be signing books and offering dream interpretation. Why, you asked? Because the first chapter of the book is a biblically inturpreted dream of a re-current nightmare from my own childhood. Cool, huh?
3.Monday evening, Oct 30th, the Godeke Library, (off Quaker near the loop) will host the Royal Hendersons in a Medival Castle party, featuring a Veggie Tale movie and readings from books of my choice. More info to come soon.
We also are already scheduling November events. Blessings deb

First Event

2006-10-01T17:19:00.000-07:00

Maddy and I Kick off our Book Promotional Month by getting all dressed up and doing a story time at the Mahon Library with 4 and 5 year olds. It is Wednesday, Oct 3rd form 10-11. Join us if you can.

The Gathering Place

2006-09-29T09:35:00.000-07:00

The Gathering Place

The Gathering Place is a concept of an alternative bookstore that encourages groups to gather and search out the truth. There will be comfortable seating and coffee. I intend on stocking the shelves with bible research material and books that have been a blessing to me for people to peruse at will while in the store or purchase to take home. I desire to carry books relating to parenting helps and devotional material. Books for biblical and historical research will be available along with information on the new prophetic moves in the Church at large, dream interpretation, and worship. Alternative Christian music including meditation music and alternative rock is going to be played in the store and offered for purchase.
I also plan on decorating a special section in a particular theme related to a promotional product. For example, there is a new line of inspirational books by Mission City press called A Life of Faith that is geared towards 8- 14 years olds similar to the American Girl books. They are specifically related to the development of Christian values and maturity in the faith. They have a line of dolls and accessories. The promotional includes a Girl’s Club and Tea events, which I wish to host in the specially decorated space.

Funny things Part 2

2006-09-26T08:36:00.000-07:00

Maddy brought down one of her babies because she wanted to be a bible times mommmy. The baby had on a cute but unbiblical romper with bloomers. She began to ask, what did babies wear int the bible and then she remembered... something about...swall "I need some cloth so I can swallow my baby." We all started laugh so much, even Maddy knew she had mispoken.
One week til release date. Please keep me in your prayers. I was warned that writing a book especially your testimony is a great deal like child birth. The anticipation, the waiting, the labor, the waiting...I must say at this point I feel that publishing is worse than childbirth. It lasts longer! I feel that I have been in labor for 3 months now. Soon I will have my baby and wait for what the world has to say about her...this time I really do care. I wish I didn't but...I guess I'm human after all.

Funny things my kids say Part 1

2006-09-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

I never fail to be inspired by the things by kids say and do, even th funny things …

At home church we were acting out a bible time family. Nathan (8) decides he’s a carpenter and wants to ‘gird up his loins’ (2 Kings 9:1) to do his work “I need a belt so I can tuck in my guts”

Strong 328
1. to gird up
2. metaph. be prepared
a. a metaphor derived from the practice of the Orientals, who in order to be unimpeded in their movements were accustomed, when starting a journey or engaging in any work, to bind their long flowing garments closely around their bodies and fastened them with a leather belt.

I Peter 1:13 Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
Matthew Henry’s Complete Commentary-

He exhorts them to sobriety and holiness. 1. Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, etc., v. 13. As if he had said, "Wherefore, since you are so honoured and distinguished, as above, Gird up the loins of your mind. You have a journey to go, a race to run, a warfare to accomplish, and a great work to do; as the traveller, the racer, the warrior, and the labourer, gather in, and gird up, their long and loose garments, that they may be more ready, prompt, and expeditious in their business, so do you by your minds, your inner man, and affections seated there: gird them, gather them in, let them not hang loose and neglected about you; restrain their extravagances, and let the loins or strength and vigour of your minds be exerted in your duty; disengage yourselves from all that would hinder you, and go on resolutely in your obedience. Be sober, be vigilant against all your spiritual dangers and enemies, and be temperate and modest in eating, drinking, apparel, recreation, business, and in the whole of your behaviour. Be sober-mined also in opinion, as well as in practice, and humble in your judgment of yourselves.’’

A Good word!!

I found myself of Amazon.com

2006-09-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

I need "influencers" People who will visit my sight at amazon, brouse around, write a review, put me on a listmania list, ect. The hits will insure the I will pop up in a timely manner when I am searched. Just click on the Highlighted "THe Gown" below and it will take you there. Thanks a lot!!! 2 weeks til Launch and counting. Blessings deb

From: Debra Henderson
Hello,I found this item at Amazon.com and thought you might find it of interest.

The Gown
by Debra Henderson
Available for Pre-order
List Price:

$13.99
Price:

$11.19
You Save:

$2.80 (20%)

Sincerely,Debra Henderson

A Tree in the Wind

2006-09-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

I remember asking God, if “all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose”, and then what was the “Good” that came out of my abuse? Why did I, or any other little girl, suffer at the hands of the men they trust? What good is that? ..
I pondered this as I was preparing to give my testimony for the first time in a large public setting. It was to a women’s ministry group of 100 or more. There would be women there from the Sunday school class my husband and I attended. Did I really want them to know my dark secrets? Would they treat me different? God had already healed many of my wounds through counseling and group work in Graduate School. Why did I need to tell anyone here, so far away from home and my family?
But I know God had His reasons. A woman I had met at a Women’s Aglow meeting and who I had studied TD Jakes’ Woman, Thou Art Loosed with was in charge of arranging for people to share their testimonies. She had asked me.
I prayed and asked God for the words to express my story in a way that would show the triumph I felt. I did not want to elicit pity or shame. I knew there were other women that would be at this meeting who needed to deal with their own abuse, but not just to stir up old wounds or put blame. I needed them to know that there is joy in the journey and healing for the ache inside.
One evening, as I was reading a gardening article the Holy Spirit began to speak to me. The article advised what to look for if you buy a sapling from a nursery. The tree expert recommended that you buy a tree that is still firmly planted where it has been nurtured. I thought a potted tree would be more convenient. But he said that you need to observe that the tree had been allowed to stand alone in the weather, not protected by wind breaks or in a clump of trees. This would assure that the sapling, swayed by the wind had developed deep roots and a sturdy elastic trunk. These things were important because, in the yard where it was to be planted it would have to withstand these things and not be brittle and break off or be uprooted easily.
“A sapling that is allowed to be buffeted by the winds of adversity while young would be strong and able to handle many future storms.”
There was my answer. I had always felt that God had a call on my life. And the storms followed me to College, Graduate School and into counseling where I took with me, kicking and screaming, my family. My sister and her husband, my mom and dad and hopefully someday my brothers will find the path of healing God has let me down. But most people don’t always face their demons willingly, not until the feel they have no other choice. I have always had the strength and courage to face the hard things, in myself and others. I believe “the winds of adversity while young” is what gave me this strength. He knew I’d need it. It didn’t mean He wanted it to happen, or that He didn’t cry over my pain. I believe He did allow it to perfect into the person He has called me to be, bold, loud, stubborn and strong.

Moms who sword fight

2006-09-08T12:17:00.000-07:00

My youngest son asked me to sword fight with him one afternoon, at which I replied, Mommies dont sword fight. That's daddy's job.
He was taken a bit aback. He looked at me seriously with his four year old eyes.
"But mommy, what about the dragon," He asked me sincerely.
He was referring to a chapter in my book where I defeat a three headed dragon, Moloch, who represents for me the type of abuse I want to shield my children from.
"Well, I mean I don't fight people,"I corrected myself. I liked that he remembered the story and I want him to see me as a heroin.
"Mommies only fight in spiritual warfare."
He looks at me confused.
I continue, "Mostly they fight when something threatens to hurt their children, like I killed the dragon with my dagger. "
"Did you stab him?" He asked
"Yeah, in the eye," I said with conviction."Then I cut his head off, but it grew back.Â
"Cool!" He was enthralled waiting for the rest of the story.
"Remember? I threw a vial of poison into his that blew in his stomach."
His eyes were wide with shock. Then he stopped and looked at me, turning his head slightly so that his gazed was now from the corners of his eyes.
"Mommy, is this for real, or just pretend?"
I laugh at his honesty, but not sure how to answer; I reached for the biblical truth."
"It's for real alright, just not in the flesh. The bible says, "Our fight is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of this dark realm." (Eph. 6:12)
I felt profound, but the explanation was lost on him.
"What?"is all he could say.
"It is hard for me to explain now but remember. My pen is my dagger and my journal is my shield." I motioned as if to stand guard.
"Let me see your shield." He inquired further.
"Its downstairs, you know, those books I carry around and am always writing in?"
"Whatever..." is how he finished to conversation as he walked off to find someone who would spar with him till his dad got home.

Secret Keeper Moms

2006-09-06T21:26:00.000-07:00

I have joined with several tween moms to begin connecting with our daughters and sharing our faith on a regulare basis, twice a month at Barnes and Noble. It has turned to a nice fellowship time. One month til Release, Ahhhhh!!

McMurry Homecoming

2006-08-23T10:38:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to announce that I am joining with Theta Chi Lambda Social Club to host a signing event at McMurry Home Coming, in Abilene Tx. The date is Sat. Oct. 14th in Martin Residence Hall Lobby. Please try to come!!! It will be Great!!

Home Church

2006-08-22T09:06:00.000-07:00

We had “Home Church” on Sunday. A tradition started on days when one of the kids were too sick to go to the nursery, we try to sing a few Christian songs, read a few verses and try to share a little of the vision we as parents see our family ministry to be. At times it has been an excuse not to go to Church when one or more of us is feeling unhappy with the way this are going in the congregation the Lord has called us to (which seems to be the case a lot lately) But today, it was a real blessing.
The kids chose to bless us with their talents, playing the piano and singing with a CD. Daddy even shared a hymn from the kids song book. Then Daddy pulled out his blessing book and Mommy shared the verses she has been praying over them for this year.

Daughter 10 yr- Romans 12:1-2 ” I urge you to present your body as a living and holy sacrifice…and do not conform to this word, but be transformed by the renewing of you mind…”

Son 8 yrs.- Luke 1:16- 17 “ And you, Child, will be called the prophet of the most High: for you will go on before the Lord to prepare His way. And you will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of righteousness.”

Son 4yrs.- I Chronicles 12:8 You will be a “… mighty man of valor, a man trained for war, who can handle shield and spear, and whose face will be like the face of a lion and will be swift as a gazelle on the mountains.”

We anointed them with oil and Daddy then knighted the boys with his special display sword.

At the end the 4 year old even prayed a blessing over me as he played a car sticker on my hand and said, “and mommy will have no car accidents” AMEN.

First Book Signing scheduled

2006-08-16T10:14:00.000-07:00

I will be at Mardels Christain book store at Quarker and Loop 289 on Saturday, Oct 7th from 11-3 signing my book. I hope to be doing some local advertising and possible some other local events. Please forward this to anyone in the area that might be interested. I'm getting excited now. Blessings ,deb

South Plains Fair

2006-08-12T08:40:00.000-07:00

Princess Cosssette Gifts wll have a boothe and an opporutunity to witness in Commecial exhibits bulilding (across from he Fair Park Collusium) jBooth # 42 During the South plains Fair - Sept 22-30th 2006. Come by and visit

Alabaster Vase

2006-08-10T19:10:00.000-07:00

Alabaster Vase

Formed for one reason

To coddle Holy Resin

To be Broken on Earth and in Heaven

To be Poured Out and Drained

To Bestow and Proclaim

Worthy is the Lamb

Who is Slain.

Secret Keepers

2006-08-06T08:35:00.000-07:00

Calling all mother/daughter royalty, this Wed, August 9th will be the first meeting of the Secret Keeper Mom's group at the Barnes and Nobles 7:00pm. It is a study of the Secret Keeper Girl, 8 Great Dates for you and you daughter. We will meet bi-monthly as moms to pray and plan our dates. The next week we go out with our daughters bonding and blessing them in the Lord, preparing for the coming of the teen years. You can purchase the book at CBD websight, it will not be necessary for the first meeting. Call me if you have any questions 778-5056

Timing

2006-08-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

A box from Tate arrived yesterday... It is my book. Two months before the final pub date of Oct 8. These 20 copies are for pre pub promotion. I am planning signings here in Lubbock and in Abilene. Maddy turns 10 this weekend... it's all about timing.

Captivating Conference

2006-07-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

I had the priveledge to attend a Captivating "mini-conference" on the last day of CBA in Denver. They showed clips of some of my favorite romantic movies, talked about the true desires of a woman's heart and blessed us with some of the new materials authors John and Stasi Eldredge have coming out this Fall. Their websight is http://www.ransomedheart.com. I hope to be able to connect with them again and maybe even take a group of gals to one of their Captivating weekends. They also have some great Wild at Heart resources for our Warrior men. Rich is actually considering going on a retreat!!! I'm soo excited.

What a month!

2006-07-23T14:24:00.000-07:00

I have given myself a week to get organized after this month of traveling. It wasn't enough but I am going back to "work". CBA was a blessing and an eye opener. I am looking forward to sharing all that God has revealed, especially when I figure out what I want to do with it. First I am going through contacts ect and wanted to give some links to the Phil Joel Websight called deliberatePeople.com. I also have me pub date of Oct 3rd and link to the tate order page. http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=1-5988634-2-8

ICRS

2006-07-11T17:33:00.000-07:00

I am here in Denver at the International Christian Retailers show. It has been a very busy and a bit discouraging time. I took a class yesterday for Prospective Christian retailers. I got a very negative view of the market and I was so discouraged by lunch that I had to leave and walk around. I remembered that I had signed up for the "New artist Luncheon" and I went down to it. Being late and by myself I found a half empty table on the back stage side of the area(not a real good view) but 2 minutes after I sat down, Phil Joel, from the News Boys, sat down right next to me and we had a lovely lunch chatting about our latest projects, kids and travel. We really hit it off. I know because later at a signing party he remembered me and wished me luck on my book. Isn't God good? I needed the encouragement and pick me up both times and I made it through the class. I'll blog later on the book process too. I cant wait til the Captivating conference on Thur. Blessings, deb

The lifecycle of the white gown

2006-07-07T22:12:00.000-07:00

This evening we attended the wedding of our friends, Pastor David and Carrie Hayslip's eldest daughter, Camille. (It was exceptionally beautiful by the way)
Remembering that it was at a wedding we attended together that Richard first mentioning getting married makes weddings a true walk down memory lane for us.
I was reminded of a piece I wrote last year about the Life Cycle of a White Gown.
It started when I brought our precious bundle home for the first time. I placed her in that white eyelet bassinet, her first photos were in a white gown. When Dedicating her to the Lord, a white gown with matching bonnet was her outfit at a Sunday morning service in Kentucky. For her first birthday a white battenburge lace dress, looking like a porcelain doll, portrait. It still hangs in the hall. When she gave her heart to Jesus and was baptized with her brother, she wore a white choir robe. Someday, she'll wear another white gown, on her wedding day, and possible that night also. Perhaps as she carries her child also she will wear a white gown and take the "Madonna w/Child" photo like I did while expected my second born. The bible said that when we get to heaven we will all be given white robes(It will be a gown to me)...And I think, life's most important events are most appropriately attended in a white gown...

On the road again

2006-07-05T12:57:00.000-07:00

We brought sunshine back to the Northeast and rain back with us to West Texas. The traveling Hendersons returned on the 4th to Lubbock from a quick trip to New York and New Jersey. We visited Rich's maternal Grandfather "POPPOP" and step-grandmother "Gigi Evelyn" . Our prayers with them as the doctors seek to help Evelyn discover and remediate the pain in her lower back from a fracture in May. While there we celebrated Grandma Judy's birthday, saw our cousins Blyth and Abigail. Swam on the Jersey shore and paid a quick visit to our old friend The Big Apple. We will be off again this Saturday to Colorado, by way of El Paso for Rich and the kids and Deb is heading to CBA in Denver.

THEGOWNBOOK.COM

2006-06-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

It's here. The websight, with a few glitches is up and waiting for you visit. Let me know what you think and please forward it to all your friends

THEGOWNBOOK.COM

They kept themselves pure

2006-06-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

"1 Then I looked, and there before me was the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father's name written on their foreheads. 2 And I heard a sound from heaven like the roar of rushing waters and like a loud peal of thunder. The sound I heard was like that of harpists playing their harps. 3 And they sang a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders. No one could learn the song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth. 4 These are those who did not defile themselves with women, for they kept themselves pure. They follow the Lamb wherever he goes. They were purchased from among men and offered as firstfruits to God and the Lamb. 5 No lie was found in their mouths; they are blameless. " Rev 14:1-4

In my devotion this morning this verse was highlighted for me. I believe these 144,000 are being formed in the Heart of God at this very moment, A Holy Generation, set upart for His endtime purposes, Blameless Firstfruits. Blessings, deb

Good Daddy

2006-06-26T18:53:00.000-07:00

Rich stayed home with the kids this weekend so mommy could go to Dallas Market and buy for Christmas. I found some very encouraging Christian products and and gifts. I also spent Friday Morning Praying the Market, blessing the buissinesses and asking for wisdom and guidance for making good decisions. "No unholy Alliances" is my guiding phrase for this season.

Guarding the Legacy

2006-06-20T08:54:00.000-07:00

Rich and I have been praying and seeking God for a name and guidance for "The Foundation" we have had in our hearts and minds since before we were married. I sense now is the time to establish this work, at least in the spirit. I hope to launch the web sight in the next week and the book should follow by late Aug or Sept, with signing events ect. Here is one of our guiding scriptures. Please be in prayer with us about God's direction and agreement as a couple on the use of our finances to God's Glory.
II Timothy 1:14
" Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you--guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us."

promised pic

2006-06-20T01:09:00.000-07:00

I'm back online at home, here is one of the promised pics from the Scarborough Faire. Maddy's favorite was this Celtic Harpist. More later

God's Work and our family

2006-06-14T13:14:00.000-07:00

Well, my home computer is still off line. But things are moving along. I got my final layout copy in the mail for final pre printer approval, YEA! Rich and our middle son, Nathan went on a weekend mission to a remote area of Mexico, Guachochi (or something like that) It was great bonding trip and good father/son time to read the next Narnia book, Prince Caspian. I beleive it is in line to be the next movie in the series. Maddy and I attended a reception for a friend who says my prayers brought her husband to her. What an honor to be a part of God's good work. THe web sight is taking form, pics are being added with dialogue as we speak. Hope to get that address out ASAP. Blessings to all, deb

Family Portraits

2006-06-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

We had a professional Photographer come to a local B&B and take our photos for the upcoming websight. I cant wait til you see the results. Two hours, two hundred shots and we ended up with maybe 20 usable photos. What a process! Good thing we had fun, as you will be able to see from the shots I pick to post. For me, it is all about the stage of life we are in and who we are at the time. I love silly shots and funny stories!! I would have never been able to stand still for those old photos where everyone had a serious look. I understand Mona Lisa's smile. She probably was laughing at a private joke or something.

Pentecost

2006-06-03T18:25:00.000-07:00

Pentecost is a Jewish celebration dating back to the Mosaic law. The Passover Feaste was prophetically fulfilled with the sacrifice of Jesus. The ressurection of Jesus was the fulfulment of the Festival of Firstfruits, being the firstsfruits from the grave. Fifty days are counted out(hence pente) and the Feaste of Pentecost fulfilled in the second chapter of Acts in the coming of the promised Holy Spirit. This infilling was the sign that God also blessed the grafted-in Gentile believer(as Peter explains in Acts 11) "Well then, God has granted to the Gentiles also the repentance that leads to life." What does Pentecost mean for us as a church today? Have you had you own Pentecost? What are your signs of the Indwell of the Spirit of God promised unto all who believe? I believe God still has more for us to learn from the Feasts of the Old Testament. As we pass through the Passover consider praying over some of these mentioned chapters and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal your gifts to use for His service.

Just call me "Mean Mommy"

2006-06-02T14:55:00.000-07:00

I decided this morning, that in order to work my lovely offspring out of the misconception that I owe it to them for life to be fun or fair, I would change my preferred title to "Mean Mommy"So that instead of saying "Yes, mame" after I give them needed instructions or discipline, they were to respond "Yes Mean Mommy" So that they knew I didn't care if they thought that the chosen task was too hard, too mean or not fair. They know I love them but self discipline is a chore not easily accomplished while be known as "Fun Mom" So, move over "Fun Mom", "Mean Mommy" has moved in for the summer, at leaste until "Spoiled Whiney Children" go back to school or are replaced by "Obedient Respectful Apple of my eye" children. Hope your summer is going at leaste as productive as mine, if not more peaceful.

Parenting by Default

2006-05-30T08:06:00.000-07:00

I have always felt that being a present and centered parent is my first job. Whatever it took to be there and not psycho (meds, mother’s day out, naps, even a dirty house or a maid) was what was required of me. As an educated career woman I made the conscious decision to be a stay-at–home mom. Although, I rarely just stayed home, I always knew that keeping a spotless house and/or great meals was not my priority.
I fear that many moms who don’t work outside the home feel pressured to make up for the loss of income by overdoing things in the domestic department, to the detriment of the kids. Volunteering at church or school and making sure all is in order should always take a back seat to communicating worth and values to the little ones under your care. The neglect in nutrition or clothing is far less common and has shorter term effects than neglecting to value and enjoy these precious ones while they are young and desperately need you to value them. “Value time” is far harder than “quality time” and way more taxing than gifts to give. But is also holds greater rewards for both the parent and the child. I know that I am a better person because of the inspiration I have received from my children. I also have the priceless knowledge that I have no regrets for the time I have invested in them. Though, dirty dishes waited till the next day and laundry has piled up to everyone’s despair, I would not take back a moment of the value time I have spent to do more chores. I hope all of you spent more “value time” this summer with all who you love.

2006-05-30T05:55:00.000-07:00

The Royal Henderson's attended Scarborough Faire in Waxahatchie this Memorial Day Weekend, in honor of King Richard's coming birthday. Prints wouldn't load. So that will have to come later. We met many a sad soul who apparently finds joy in pretending to be a lady or lord for a weekend... Someday some will be royalty forever, others wont. I truly desire to help them to all become part of the royal family.

Inverlochy

2006-05-23T23:01:00.000-07:00

A little over a year ago Princess Cossette and I roamed here...
AS I go back over my pictures for the websight for my upcoming book release, I wanted to share a little Scotish Highland beauty. The remains of Castle Inverlochy, on the side of a small country road just outside Ft William. It is open to climb on and explore at leisure. Which we did!! More pics of our journey to come...

Wisdom from above?

2006-05-23T21:26:00.000-07:00

Things spoken to my spirit, wisdom from above, in these times
1. "Keep your precious things precious" meaning my kids.
Is. 43:4
"Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give men in exchange for you, and people in exchange for your life."
2. "It's not about you"
Duet 9:6
"Understand, then, that it is not because of your righteousness that the Lord your God is giving you this good land to possess, for you are a stiff-necked people. "
3. "No unholy Alliances"

2 Corinthians 6:14-17
Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?
What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?
What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people."
"Therefore come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you."
4. "It's all about Integrity"
1Ch 29:17
I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things have I given willingly and with honest intent.

Shaming 2

2006-05-21T08:54:00.000-07:00

"Shame on you!" " You should be ashamed of yourself!"
I think these phrases should be eliminated from all Christian parents vocabulary. The motivation for good righteous behavior is love not guilt. The work of shame is a work of the Holy Spirit and is an internal work, individual to each person. Making ourself some one elses spiritual compass only solves the current behavior problem(if even that) We need to guide their choices by reward or negative consequences while building a relationship of mutual respect. This respect is what will hold their compass steady when their world is rocked by the teen age years.

Shaming

2006-05-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

Shame is a godly motivator. A virtuous life shames the ungodly, providing a context for evangelism (Titus 2:8; 1 Peter 3:16). A believer's shame for past sin is a spur to forsake sinning (Rom 6:21), to renounce disobedience (2 Thess 3:14)(Baker's Evangelical Dictionaryof Biblical Theology )
The shame we feel from our own guilt and shortcomings leads us to becoming more like Christ.
But... What about
"v. shamed, shaming
To cause to feel shame; put to shame.
To bring dishonor or disgrace on
Synonyms:
abhorrence, anathema, aversion, bother, curse, detestation, disgust, evil, hate, hatred, horror, loathing, nuisance, plague, repugnance, repulsion, revulsion, shame, torment, wickedness"
Source:
Roget's New Millennium™ Thesaurus, First Edition (v 1.2.1)Copyright © 2006 by Lexico Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved.
This verb that talks about how we effect others or try to put shame on them is the one that has caused me the most difficulty. I others I suspect

Strong 2627
kataqemativzw
Transliterated Word
Kataischuno
kat-ahee-skhoo'-no
Verb
Definition
to dishonour, disgrace
to put to shame, make ashamed
to be ashamed, blush with shame
one is said to be put to shame who suffers a repulse, or whom some hope has deceived
The KJV New Testament Greek Lexicon
This is used mostly in the New Testament to tell us what not be ashamed of, like Christ.
So why do we judge so much and shame others when they don't live up to our expections of what a "Christian is supposed to be"? ...

Shame

2006-05-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about how we as parents use shame to discipline. Or maybe more of how shame has been inappropriately used by parents and in the church. The bible has 22 words that have been translated into the word shame or ashamed. But only a few connote what I am talking about. We all know that shame is part of God given conscience to help bring us to sorrow for our sin and then repent. I am not talking about this type of beneficial shame. But the one that is meant to cause the feeling of unworthiness as in this definition:
shame n.
1. A painful emotion caused by a strong sense of guilt, embarrassment, unworthiness, or disgrace.
2. Capacity for such a feeling: Have you no shame?
3 .One that brings dishonor, disgrace, or condemnation.
4. A condition of disgrace or dishonor; ignominy.
5. A great disappointment.
Roget's New MillenniumÂ Thesaurus, First Edition (v 1.2.1)Copyright Â© 2006 by Lexico Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved.
I have fought this feeling my whole life, real or imagined... Where does it come from?.. More later.

Almost there

2006-05-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

I signed March 10th 2005, my 38th birthday to write my first book. I am only a few months to my goal. That is my inspiration beside me, the real Princess Cossette

Four Things

2006-05-17T16:47:00.000-07:00

Four things you might not know about me
Four jobs you have had in your life:1. mom2. shoe sales3. Youth director4. Marriage CounselorFour movies you would watch over and over:1. The Princess Bride2. Chronicles of Narnia3. Lord of the Rings4. Maddy TV
Four places you have lived:1. Lubbock, Tx2. Lexington Ky3. El Paso, Texas4. Abilene, Tx
Four TV shows you love to watch:1. The Bachelor2. Dancing with the Stars3. American Idol4. Supernanny!!! (probably the one I need most, ha)
Four places you have been on vacation:1. O.C. California2. Paris, France3. Orlando, Florida4. Philadelphia, Penn.
Four websites I visit daily:1. My email
2. Askjeeves.com 3. Crosswalk.com (bible searches)4. my Blog
Four of my favorite foods: (not necessarily in that order)1. Orange Chicken Rich makes for me2. Pancakes on Sat morning.3. Beef Burgundy or Stroganoff4. Great Filet Mignon
Four places I would rather be right now:1. French Alps2. Hot tub.3. Praying and Prophesying to missionaries anywhere 4. Observing my kids interact with their friends without them seeing me. (I peeked in the nursery at church esp if they had 2 way mirrors)
Four things I always carry with me1. Cell Phone 2. Debit card or cash (in purse)3. Coffee4. Journal in book bag with small bible and dream book

The gown

2006-05-17T08:33:00.000-07:00

The gown The blurb on the back of my book, to be published late Summer '06.
“She had wanted so to stay pretty and clean, to not rip her gown. This is the one that her grandmother made for her to wear when she came to visit. Grandfather always called her princess when she wore it, and that is how she felt.
She startles as a hot breath blows from the depths of the cavern, sensing it is inhabited by evil. It extinguishes her small candle. Now she is alone in the deep darkness, afraid for more than her life. She was afraid for her soul.”
The nightmare had plagues her all her life. But the birth of a little princess brought Gwendolyn to the realization that there were some issues in her past she must confront, especially if she wants to protect her daughter from the dark journey into the Cavern Deprovere.
Join our heroin as she seeks out the King on High and goes on a quest to redeem her family from a generational curse.
Come here for more soon!!!!

wash their feet

2006-05-16T14:38:00.000-07:00

I'm preparing to publish my first book. My testimony in Allegory form. The Gown and Allegory by Debra Henderson. It is a story of young girl who became a queen in spite of her struggles. And how her daughter, Princess Cossette inspires her to go on a quest.
I am at home mother of 3 children and they have all inspired me to be a better parent. This blog is to share some of the things that have made this difficult, tiring and sometimes impossible job more fun and a blessing.

May 16, 2206
Jesus told me to wash their feet.

When the kids were little and I wanted to do a little toe nail trimming or get them take a bath, I came up with the idea to declare “Spa treatment” They would jump right in to a nice warm baffy, suds up and let me trim their toe nails, wash and style their hair and do it with great joy and giggles. They came out feeling special and loved. I came off looking like a great mom. I got what I wanted “clean kids” without having to nag and threaten. And all it took was a little imagination, a few choice words and some creative use of drug store bought items.

bubble bath, bath oil, bath fizzer, “mermaid water”
Fun shampoo
fun soap
body scrub, mask or sea salt for foot spa
fun lotion
finish with a message, drawing on the back and a blessing