So what is it about the word "crockpot" that makes me dislike it so much? I have one sitting in my cupboard and I even use it occasionally, but when I do I just feel like I am making less of a meal than if I were to labor over the stove or shove a dish in the oven. Maybe it is because crockpot cookbooks show lots of cheesy, creamy, not-so-good for you recipes? Maybe it is because mom always used it on the days she didn't have time to actually cook. Whatever the reason, I am wondering if anyone else shares the same stigma for crockpots? And how in the world can I get over it?  

I love life-long friends. There is something so special about the relationships we can have that have no strings attached...no expectations...no pressure to do or be anything but ourselves. Catherine is that kind of friend. :o) We had such a wonderful weekend with her and her hubby. And we both loved watching our husbands get to know each other and hang out golfing, fishing, and talking about the fire department.  

Both of them graciously put up with our crazy lifestyle, which we were sooo grateful for. That same weekend we also had a work team of 30+ people staying in our backyard and Keith was overseeing a lot of the work that was done around the lodge/grounds. Catherine helped me prepare dinner for 50 one night and both evenings we enjoyed bonfires with all the youth. We also found ways to sneak in time together. While Keith was working, the rest of us hiked Panther Mountain and one afternoon we all took the boat out and Keith and Kevin fished and caught some "huge" fish.

Here are a couple pics from the weekend!

 

"Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths.

Guide me in your truth and teach me,

for you are God my Savior,

and my hope is in you all day long."

Psalm 25: 4-5

 

This morning is one of those mornings when coffee doesn't even work. I still feel like I just woke up and it is already five minutes to noon. My to-do list is endless, the phone doesn't stop ringing, and my company list for the evening is growing rapidly. Don't get me wrong, I love all my dear friends and the cry of my heart is to serve and be used for the Lord. I am just weary today.

The verses above have been filling my mind this morning, as my already busy day is growing more complicated. Will I do all I have to do today, with the love of Christ and joy? Will I offer hospitality with out grumbling as commanded in Scripture? Will I serve my neighbors this afternoon, who need God's touch and a miracle in their lives? Will I still take time to be on my knees and pray for those I will see today and for my own attitude and discernment in ministering, when I really just want a 30 minute nap?

My hope is in God all day long and by His strength I can say yes to all those questions. I praise God for His Word and for the strength He gives when we turn to Him in prayer.