Baby Grands and Oreo Turkeys

This post is a part of the Thanksgiving feast at L.L. Barkat’s Seedlings in Stone. Join us at the table. When you do, drop a comment by L.L.’s blog to let her know. L.L. will link to you in the Thanksgiving Celebration post (and Christianity Today and High Calling Blogs will link back to said post, so their readers can check out the full celebration).

Baby Grands and Oreo Turkeys

One of my greatest joys at this season in my life, is the time I get to spend with the grands. My little gang of three keep me on my toes spiritually, physically and emotionally. Challenging me daily with a unique wit, wisdom and faith that is often found in members of the pint size set. They prove time and again that out of the mouths of babes God will be known and praised.

The fall and winter after my daughters death, a large part of me wanted to hunker down, stay indoors and hide from everyone in hopes that I could ignore the annual parade of holidays until it passed.

The one-two celebratory combo of Thanksgiving and Christmas held some of the sweetest and most cherished memories of times spent with my girl. Lauren was a self proclaimed homebody, who loved her family and revelled in all occasions that brought the family together.

I made the silly assumption that because we were so recently bereaved, no one would expect the usual Thanksgiving fair. Those who usually graced our tables would make other plans to spend their days in more joyful surroundings, with brighter spirited people.

I could not have been more wrong.

This family of mine barraged me with request for all their favorite dishes, I had parties inviting themselves to dinner as well as their latest love interest. We were to have a crowd.



What was wrong with these people?



Despite my intentions to sit out that inaugural year, my family had other ideas.

With help from my dear husband along with emails and phone calls from in laws and outlaws we assembled a menu, filled the cupboards and prepared for the pending celebration.


My family had high expectations and good intentions-committing to do everything they could to make this festival of thanks go smoothly and with little effort on my part. There were many promises of what would be done and how they would help, promises that ultimately were broken as most fell into their normal holiday habits that included watching lots of football, Christmas movies and naps by the fire.


But not the wee folk.


Seems my baby grand girls would have no part in my boycotting the holidays. My girls begged to know what we would be having and how they could help put on this party.

From decorating the house to baking pies my two K's hijacked every plan I made to sit the season out, instead setting a course for a holiday wrapped in true thanks.

At just over 2 1/2 years old, these two little sprites were formidable.

It was Thanksgiving by golly!

They knew what to expect if we were doing this holiday up right and they were tenacious enough to keep me from collapsing on my memories and shutting the whole thing down.



To that end, these two girls were on me all the time: my kitchen, my bedroom, my bathroom, my world. From early in the morning to late at night they seemed determined to miss nothing.



With my two little sous chefs and Paw Paw in tow, we went about preparing a Thanksgiving feast.

We measured, stirred, whipped and baked.

The girls wash dishes, shucked corn and deviled some eggs.

We read volume's of thanksgiving books, played lots of birdie in the nest

all when we weren't

swinging and sliding all over our backyard and everyone else's.

My crew painted, colored and had all manner of tea parties that effectively filled every

dark corner of our big ole house with waves of love, laughter and other reminders of how much we truly had cause to give thanks for.

Those two girls wore themselves out with it all...they were so determined to be thankful!

By the time we actually sat down for dinner that year my heart overflowed and I dared to mention the unmentionable...the empty chair....

Lauren.

As with many families we traditionally take time to share something we are grateful for before going to God in prayer.

I was first to take a turn.


I thanked my loved ones for putting out all the effort, changing their plans and pushing so hard to be there in a home that no one in their right mind would want to be in - the home of a dead girl and her grieving family.

What kind of fun could that be?

Where's a cause to celebrate and give thanks?

Yet they came, made me stay, face my loss and ultimately blessed me so. It was a bittersweet day of thanks.

What a family I have!

I am blessed and abundantly so!

This year, no one will be traveling over the river and through the woods to this Maw Maw's house. It is not our turn to prepare their feast.

Instead, we prepare for a party of five.


Baby grand and I have been busy creating menu's, writing grocery list and making decorations including place card holders made of Oreo turkeys all while anticipating the baking of our first pumpkin pie this season.

For this I am thankful.


My son and daughter in love are expecting again...a miracle in itself as Elizabeth has unique medical anomalies that have kept her from successfully carrying 3 other pregnancies to term, so we lift them up in prayer and praise God.


For this I am thankful.


Same precious daughter in love gave her heart to Christ earlier this year and has been waiting to be baptized here in Georgia. Lord willing, Elizabeth will take this next step of faith when the family comes to stay throughout Christmas and New Years.

For this I am so thankful.


Little Man K has been living with his Mama full time for almost 3 months now, they seem to be getting along well.


For this and so much more I am thankful and ever







Now it's your turn, please share.

How has God blessed you and what is your testimony of thanks?

Surrendering the Secret

About half of American women have experienced an unintended pregnancy, as a result more than one-third (35%) will have had an abortion by age 45.

That's one in every 3 women.

These gals cross all races, socio-economic groups and beliefs. If you have not trod this path, then chances are that woman next to you has.

1 in 3.

The reality is there are millions of women out there - believers and unbelieving, that because of the nature of their situation are reluctant to
to reach out and believe they have reason to hope.

My dear friend Melinda at Traveling the Road Home has an incredible give away.

Please stop by her blog, leave a comment and see what you and yours can do to help spread the word about Surrendering the Secret .

I am praying that everyone that swings by this page has the courage of conviction to Do something. Don't click away and pretend you didn't know or understand...not this time.

Hold Fast to What God has Done for Us

We had an incredible time at Bible Study today as we continued in our study of


"Just Enough Light for the Step I'm On".

We didn't play so much golf, as cool temperatures combined with intermittent rains kept most indoors. So you know, the combination did not dampen our spirits.

We will be playing more as we prepare to support The Bethany House by way of participating in their Annual Golf Tournament.

For the most part, this group of ours would not be easily mistaken for serious golfers.

We are serious about having fun and spreading salt and light wherever we can...but serious as in keeping score and who wins, who loses. Not so much!

Supporting The Bethany House may give us a few more opportunities to shine a light in a few dark places..

We are really enjoying the study, not to mention camaraderie as we discover the many ways God refines and sifts us. We have learned He is into A's, big time and if we don't get the benefit of a trial or struggle, we will find ourselves back in it until we do.

One of several elements we are encouraged to use as we weather these storms is gratitude and praise.

Remembering what and where God has delivered us from, perhaps keeping a gratitude and praise journal. As you face various trials you can hold fast to what God has done for us in the past and know that He will do no less in the future.

"Through faith in Jesus we have received God's grace. In that grace we stand. We are full of joy because we expect to share in God's glory. And that's not all. We are full of joy even when we suffer. We know that our suffering gives us the strength to go on. The strength to go on produces character. Character produces hope. And hope will never let us down. God has poured his love into our hearts. He did it through the Holy Spirit, whom he has given to us."

In closing, enjoy the following testimony of lives that have Praising Him in the storms and come out on the other side, with the abundance of blessing.


God bless you,
tammy

joy, triumph, victory and funny hats

I recently received an email addressed to Inga…that’s right, Inga.

If memory serves me right and most of you know, sometimes…
it doesn't...but if it did
I was kind of thinking the name Inga was of Swedish origin.

You know what?

It is.

Having recently spent a lot of time and money with The Geek Squad as my laptop was severely sick; I was in no mood to inadvertently open a virus from some stranger looking for a Swede.

After further consideration, I got to thinking…
I do drive a Volvo, I have very blue eyed and I’m about as blond as you can pay to be.

Ummm...Inga?

As I pondered the possibilities, I reflected on a few Swedes I've known or know of.

There’s Heidi: I read the book as a teen and loved Shirley Temples cinematic interpretation of the girl.

Swedish? Check!

Of course let’s not forget Abba!

What kind of list ‘o Swedes would be complete without Abba?

“Momma Mia, here I go again, Oh my…” Oops! Sorry…I couldn't help myself.

In the sports world we have Björn Borg, Annika Sörenstam and, an…oh yeah,



Annika!

Now there’s a connection!

Someone out there in web world, very cleverly found some 6 degrees of separation between me and

Annika Sörenstam...The ultimate golf super hero (for girls)!

Let me share my reasoning.

Of all the golf tips and suggestions bantered about these last few months, it’s those practiced by Annika, when executed properly, that never fail me.

The best advice of all?
is really good…lean in a bit closer if you can.

Whenever Ms Sörenstam putts, no matter her distance from the hole,

she keeps her head down

for the duration of her swing , start to finish…including her follow through.

This ‘Titan of the Links’, never looks up until

she hears that rewarding ‘clink’ of the ball as it drops into the hole.

In my early days…back in May, when I debated ‘be?…bee the ball’ , and other such nonsense…talk amongst my golf buddies was all Annika.

Struggling to make a putt with a swarm of honey bees trying to pollinate my ball, I overheard a golf Buddie share this little gem,

‘Keep your head down like Annika’.

Uh?

‘Yah! You ever watched Annika? She never looks up, always keeps her head down. She doesn't need to know where it’s going once she hits it. She knows how big her swing should be and what her efforts should produce, and it usually does.’

I try hard to keep that lesson in mind and ultimately, anytime I’m able to execute play similar to my Swedish golfing guru, I see dramatic improvement in my game.

As our group continues studying Stormie Omartians’ “Just Enough Light for the Step I’m On “ , I can’t fail to make the following connection.

The greatest progress we’ll ever make in our moment by moment, daily walk with God, is when we keep our heads down, our mind on the mark and do what we know to do whether we feel it, see it or not. That’s faith.

If we’ll just let go, do the thing the way we know to do it and trust God, He’ll take care of the rest. Keep in mind, God is not obligated to let us know where we’re going or even why. He requires we be obedient to His instruction, follow His lead and move on, one step or stroke at a time.
He’ll adjust our swing if need be, remember; this is not about ‘just doing it’, but instead doing it with, through and for Him.

“Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!” Hebrews 12:1-3

As we focus on the prize, not losing heart or forgetting where our help comes from, we are assured of completing this ultimate game with the consummate partner and coach. All that will remain are shouts of joy, songs of triumph,

dances of victory

and

funny hats?

I can hardly wait!

How about you?

Got your club ready and your head down?

Every 8 Seconds

**Please forgive me if you read my other blogs.

I am duplicating my posts as this subject is worth redundancy**

A group of Siesta's from around the country and over seas, joined together to compile a 338 page cookbook.

Now this is not just any ole cookbook.

This grassroots culinary catalog has an abundance of delectable recipes, beautiful photography, plus an assortment of family stories and sayings to boot!

Take a look at the index to get a feel for what's inside.

Filet Mignon with Blackberries...Yum!

The real treasure is that all proceeds will be donated to Life Outreach International whose ministries include drilling water wells in third world countries, where every 8 seconds someone dies from a waterborne disease. Those effected most are children...many of whom die before they reach the age of 5.

With so little, we can do so much!

The Siesta created this book in honor of Beth Moore and the entire Living Proof staff, who are big supporters of providing 'Living Water' to the all the world.

Consider giving books for Christmas, Birthdays, Newlyweds, a Teachers gift...you get the picture.

The cookbooks are $18 each with an additional $6 for shipping. There will be a discount in shipping cost for orders of two or more books.

We've installed a little button on our web bar that will allow you to place an order for books with Holly of Crownlaiddown. Holly is the lead Siesta, who organized and produced the entire project, for her we are most grateful.

Once you press the 'Order Here' button, you'll be brought to an order form. After completing the form, press 'send' to have the information sent to Holly, who will then contact you with a total and various payment options.

Pass it On!

We quickly forward inspirational stories and videos via email all the time... as we lift prayer and praise for the content shared...this should be no exception.


Pass it on, let others partake of the blessing.

Handicaps

We were at again.

The Awesome Foursome as Polly would say.

Me? I'm thinkin more like...

The Terrific Trio.

Considering my pitiful abilities, I would humbly exclude myself from my peers.

Take a look at this form

Impressive, eh?

We had a great time as usual. No intimidation playing with these gals, unless you have an aversion to much laughter and cheer?




This being my third 'scored' play, I have additional figures to add to my handicap.

My more knowledgeable partners tell me...handicaps are a good thing.


That has not been my understanding.

I thought golf handicaps were simply an average of a players score, period...higher the handicap, poorer the player.

So, if you were playing with big girls they would know from the get-go, they should not to be in hurry.

This NOT necessarily the reality.

Oh, yes your partners may figure your style of play

(This would be my signature 'Squat')

could slow down the game considerably. They may choose to lather on the SPF 100 instead of SPF 50 or pack a lunch...uh...you get the picture, as everything indicates

WARNING: LONG DAY AHEAD!!

I've learned there is a lot more that goes into a golfers handicap.

For instance...according to Wikipedia 'A player's handicap is intended to show a player's potential, not his average score'


This surprised and delighted me.


I like this discovery...I really do!


This reminds me of how God sees and uses me, based on how He sees me, my potential...through Him.

In and of myself I am severely handicapped, useless by the worlds standards. If there is a bunker, water hazard, forest or rough...I will land right in the middle of it every time...drawn to it as it were.

I'm unable to stay on the fairways of life without Divine intervention, much less land on the greens.

But through Christ, I have vast potential!

Yet, until I surrender, giving up all pretense that I can do anything of value outside of Christ through me, I'm doomed to hobble along in my flesh, living with an ever increasing handicap.

Just a reminder:
While walking this sod, we are all disabled...some more visible than others. Sometimes you may never be aware of it until you hit the course with a dear brother or sister.


Many deformities are as obvious the bulky stroke counter I wore at my waist awhile back. Big and brightly colored, a glaring reminder to all, just how imperfect I am. Yet He still uses me. Broke mess that I am. Uses me in ways I could never do on my own.


I can 'dress the dress', 'walk the walk', stretch and loosen up just like a Tiger or Annika. Sometimes my practice swings look great.


Yet, when it's time to come out swinging...


Whooooa!! Duck!


What was I thinking...who was I fooling?

My personal prayer?

Lord, let me give up the charade and get honest with myself and others... may all know that I can truly do nothing without You calling the shots.

Oh that His glory may burst through my cracked and broken life.

Crippled in myself...made glorious through Him!

As Paul said in 2 Corinthians 12: 7-10, regarding God's answer to his notorious handicap...that thorn in his flesh.

"I was given the gift of a handicap to keep me in constant touch with my limitations. Satan's angel did his best to get me down; what he in fact did was push me to my knees. No danger then of walking around high and mighty! At first I didn't think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, and then He told me, 'My grace is enough; it's all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness'. Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ's strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become. "

Through me... train wreck...every single time.

Through Christ all things are possible...ALL things.

I am so grateful God does not see me as I see myself, oh how lost I would be. He sees my potential, He knows what He has planned for me, what I am capable of through Him. I praise Him for it!

On that note, I leave you with the following video.

I hope this helps you understand how our heavenly Father sees us.

Oh yes! To Him we are ALL as cute and cuddly as this little fella!

Glove Bugs and Floaties

Well, yesterday was game day.

The anticipation surrounding these first real rounds of golf - with grown ups mind you, on a 'big kids' course was sooo much more rewarding than I ever imagined.

There is something to be said for lowering you expectation...once they are low enough, anything better is cause for much celebration.

Miss Polly offered to play a some practice holes with me a couple of days before our 'real' game.

I was so relieved!

What a way to break the ice, not to mention get an idea of just how bad the damage might be on game day.

Let me start by saying, I did no physical damage to Miss P, and minimal damage to the links.

I was ecstatic!

Our little practice outing yielded a wealth of experiences. We battled hazards of all kinds: water, sand and tree, with my biggest battle coming from memory or lack of it, I should say. It can get a bit challenging to the 'ol noggin trying to keep track of your score once it get into double digits.

Trust me on this girls, the trouble begins as soon as you run out of fingers, I mean you can't use your toes what with them being covered up with shoes and all, it get dicey...you get the picture.

Polly recommended I pick up a stroke counter.

"They just hook on your belt loop" How cool is that?

Sounded like a fine idea, so by the end of our practice rounds, I vowed to 'get me one a those'.

From P's description, I envisioned something like these 'little' gems.

Take note, the one on the right, the 'Glove Bug' is about the size of a nickle, and attaches inconspicuously to the top of your glove.

Both counters are so discreet, don't you think?

Unlike say...this?

I've deduced this is a multipurpose gadget. Not only can you tally up your strokes, you can use it as golf themed jewelry, say... a choker or belt ( depending on the size of your waist), and...that's not all, just like seat cushions on an airplane; In the event of a water emergency, use this beauty as a floatation device.

Did you note the bright color?

What better way to attract attention in the event of said water rescue or even getting lost in woods?

Unfortunately for me, I did not get over to The PGA Superstore before the 'Big Game', and the only counter available at the club house shop was that clip-on abacus number above.

Having no other option, as I forgot the necessary tools to execute Plan B.

Plan B you ask? Using of stick of chalk to tally strikes on my pant leg of course.

Instead, I was left with this.

Can you say Golf Tourist?

It is my contention that this thing is the fanny pack of the golf world.

Get spotted with this hanging from your waist and it's tantamount to wearing a neon sign that screams,

'I am a foreigner in your Land of Golf' 'Beware!! I have no clue what I am doing!'

An ingenious method to track neophytes, don't you think?

By 10:30 the four of us: my 2 faithful companions, Floatie and myself, made our way across hill, ditch, sand and water.

Along the way I learned some of the best methods to rescue your ball from same water, sand and ditch and trust me, there are many...but lest I digress even more, we'll save that for another day.

Amazingly, the abacus on my belt did not run short of beads, as I feared. Never making it to double digits once, I was elated at the end of play to have scored a 61, which included 1 bogey, and 4 double bogey's.

That's playing 9 holes ya'll.

See for yourself

My sweet loving spouse pointed out this score would be a nice round 122 were we playing a full 18 holes.

My response?

Ya baby!

I'll take a 122.

You see, two days earlier I scored 62 in six holes of play, (with par for these 6 being 25) averaging double digits at most holes (ergo the red alert that I might need a counting tool).

Using my honey's astute observations, should I triple these first score's, those 6 holes would net me a 'round' 186 after 18 holes.

Gotta put things into perspective folks!

As I confessed earlier, there was a certain amount of apprehension leading up to this date. The looped tape running in my head caused me to envision a long, gruesome game with my two partners trying to figure out how to break the news, that I should rethink this golf thing.

Which one will be Paula and which one will be Simon I pondered? Huh?

My concerns were unfounded.

What an encouraging group of friends! They both turned out to be Paula's.

Not only did they cheer, but by games end my golf buddies taught me so many other invaluable things, like...the finer moves of 'fist bumping', (my grown children will be so proud!)

Michelle Obama's got nutt'n on the FHG gals, let me tell ya!

Oh yes, and let's not forget the real purpose behind the super large fans that scattered among the greens

Why Glamour shots of course!

Okay, if you wear a floatation device a rope aaand bring a camera to golf ...you might be a redneck greenhorn.

Fine with me! Sign me up and call me silly, you got my number!

How grateful I am to have spent such a fabulous, fun filled day with these two amazing women, swinging, putt'n, and fist bump'n to beat the band.

I am reminded of Hebrews 10:24-25

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. "

The Message says it another way

"So let's do it—full of belief, confident that we're presentable inside and out. Let's keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps his word. Let's see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching. "

The entire group of FHG Sisters, is nothing... if not full of belief, firmly gripped on God's promises, ever inventive, sharing love, helping out and full of much encouragement!

Our new study begins in a few short weeks, if you stop by, I'll be the one with the large stroke counter and infinitely bigger smile. Hope to see you there!

Taking steps of faith...and lovin' it!

Well, "Tee" has been hearing from God about pursuing golf for His glory (and her good). He's put this desire in her heart to learn the game as well as the desire to draw other girlfriends into the delightful challenge....for His glory (and their good).

She's persevering and she's on her way -- having long since joined the forces of the Fore His Glory Bible Study; having recently taken lessons from a gifted PGA instructor, and now has ventured out on her maiden round of golf! Yep. She did it. She's overcome so much to get to this place and it's God who has brought her so far.
Hmmm. God is at work in her life. He's showing her (and us) that His word is true and that He is trustworthy and loving. Look, she's "living out" His word:

"You dear child(ren) are from God and have overcome..." 1 John 4:4

"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:5

"For nothing is impossible with God." Luke 1:37

"Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16-17

All glory to Him, Girlfriends, All glory to Him!
Let's ALL keep steppin', Sisters!

Natural as Breathing

It's finally happened. I've received my first invitation to play 9 holes of real golf.

I am filled with anticipation and a golf cart of anxiety.

I accepted the invite of course.

I have spent far too many years otherwise engaged, watching others live lives full steam ahead without hesitation or fear of failure, as such, I have made a decision.

Now is my season to be bold...to jump in with both cleated feet and start swinging!

Did I mention the nervousness?

You see, aside from what could be written off as rookie jitters, I know something my host are not aware of.

I have not spent much time lately practicing the game, like I KNOW I should.

As summer began, I took a private lesson with Don B. Mr.

Don could not have been any clearer, giving me every manner of concise instruction, helpful hint and encouragement...muuch encouragement...let us not forget the encouragement!

The last most important thing he told me was practice...practice as much as I could, then based on how I was doing with what I had learned, he would see me in about 10 days or more. He stated that obviously the more I practiced, the quicker I should be feeling at home with this game.

I expected him to schedule another lesson right away, but no...he stated once I was able to execute various swings with some consistency in results and began feeling more comfortable doing it, I was to give him a call and we would move on.

Mr. D advised practicing many of these skills in my backyard, the driving range or perhaps playing a 3 hole course for starters. If I did as he told me, before long golf would begin to feel as natural as breathing. Then we could go into more in depth training.

I have done little to none of the above.

Panic has set in.

Just so we're clear on this...I am not concerned about 'looking' bad.

A myriad of experiences throughout my life regularly humble me to the point that I sooo know that 'this', (like so many other things) is NOT about me!

That said, here are my concerns:

My good and I'm talking GOOD golf pals, are showing such grace and mercy escorting me on the fairways. I shutter to think of the many ways I might harm them physically, psychologically and emotionally.

The two courses being considered are fine pieces of real estate. Whew! When I consider the unintentional aeration of sod that I know I am capable of, it makes my knees shake!

Nine hole play is said to take a couple of hours to complete...my buddies are already suggesting we use golf carts for this expedition. These two ladies usually walk (for the exercise don't you know). I suspect they are looking for a hasty getaway in the event I inadvertently harm one of their neighbors person or property.

If I am so ill prepared, why do it you may ask?

If I wait for perfect conditions...all my tee's in row so to speak, I could be well into my 70's before I play the first round. I really want to do this, and now seems to be the time.

God has been really dealing with me on this, oh...He has!

Recently I have been vigilant in seeking an even more intimate relationship with Him. I prayed for Him to actually increase my 'want to'. I prayed God supernaturally blow past the 'Mom-nesia', the worn out old body and pump me up in mind, body and spirit, think Godly steroids. Once this happens, we could really get tight and as a result, in all ways my life would do and be nothing that does not glorify Him.

You see, I had a good plan for something I really wanted, or so I thought.

That was when He, in that still...oh so small, non-condemning God voice said,

"You claim to want to hear from Me, seek My will and way, making your life all about Me...yet how much time are you really spending with Me child? Just you and Me? You say you want to be closer...how about desire? What is your hearts desire? " He then reminded me

"Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." James 4: 8

He so had my number.

Since summer reared her hot and sticky head, I have slowly fallen out of some wonderful routines I've cultivated. These practices assure that my day begins early and intimate with just He and I, His Word and usually a large cup of Joe.

With total amazement at His commitment to me, showing Himself regularly in every part of my meager life, I would start my day with Him before the sun had shown a hint of color and all of nature was just beginning to stretch and yawn. Depending on the weather, we might visit out on the screen porch, the sun room or curled up in the big chair in the library.

This was our time. Without many of the distractions of life and tending to everyone else's need. My focus for the day began with Him and continued that way throughout the rest of the day and night until we pick up where we left off the next morning.

Here's what I discovered, just like it says in Psalm 37:4-5

"Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this"

These disciplines, drew me so near to my Savior. Knowing Him better was my deepest desire, and what do you know...He gave it to me! My delighted heart would then overflow into every part of my life.

Throughout summer I've gotten increasingly lack in setting my alarm to be up by 5:30. Relishing just a few more winks every day. As a result, by the time I get up lately, my little crew is up and at 'em. They come out of the baby gate full speed, no need for caffeinated beverages to start their day by gollie!

Once they are up, I may as well give it up. Quiet time is over, why bother or so I thought.

To equate spending time on my golf game with pouring over my Father's Word may seem a stretch. It's not legalism, I don't feel condemned for not keeping up with a practice that I have enjoyed for so many years. I just miss the closeness.

Taking time, focusing...really focusing on His letters to me, allowing Him in, to speak, guide and love me more requires that I set aside our time to do so. If not, life wakes up and runs me over, leaving moments here or there for just the two of us throughout the day, and that's not cutting it.

This makes me way more anxious than playing those 9 holes next week, and it should.

So this morning, I was up before the chickens with triple cappuccino in one hand, Bible in the other. Snuggled up with just He and me in a favorite overstuffed chair. My heart overflowed. I was back home... and it was as natural as breathing.

It's not about golf but it IS in the mix!

I had no idea that when God breathed life into this Fore His Glory concept of combining a Bible study, a bunch of growing girlfriendships, golf instruction and play, and lunch, that it really isn't about golf. I can see that He is just using golf to "bring us out" physically, spiritually, and emotionally. And He's doing it differently in each one of us and He really is doing it for His glory!

See we're a bunch of Warrior Chicks who are still learning that it's the joy of the Lord, prayer, a deep relationship with Him, laughter, clean jokes, a sense of humor, a thankful heart, and not taking ourselves too seriously that gets us through the hard times that always come our way!

God promises us that "in this world we would have trouble" and He also says, "but take heart, I have overcome the world." He is in charge. He rules. He rocks, if you will. Well, He does!

Anyway, about the golf part.... You've heard of Chick Flicks, you know, movies that only girlfriends enjoy.....well, I'm about to describe Warrior Chick Golf! You gotta have just the right 'tude to enjoy it and you gotta think like a Chick!
Here goes:
1. Golf is an activity you can enjoy into a ripe old age. You don't have to run, you don't have to kick anything (well you're not supposed to), you don't have to throw anything (not supposed to do that either) nor lift anything heavy but a club and you get to s-w-i-n-g the club! And then, of course, there's the gas or electric golf cart! Whoo hoo. You have the choice to RIDE around the golf course instead of walking and pushing your bag of clubs around on a three-wheeled chariot, uh, cart.

2. God is all over golf. A golf course is a beautiful setting to find God. The setting is made up of rolling dark green fairways, waterways that sparkle from the sunshine hitting it just right, birds are singing their songs, you're surrounded by plush landscaping...and it's quiet. Well, it's supposed to be quiet so the golfer can concentrate on making that shot.....uh, I guess the quiet part really depends on who's out on the course with you or who's on the neighboring fairway. I won't go there for now.

3. Then there's the FUN of playing with your girlfriends.....and that's always a blast because when you're out there you can visit while you play....you know. TALK. See, when you play golf, you're not panting and losing your breath over the next shot....you can visit and catch up with your girlfriends....because you're all out there for the same reason -- to relax with friends, to laugh and "lighten up" while you spend time together in an outdoor activity, and you even get some exercise. And you know what? I've found that when I relax I play a much better game of golf without really trying! Cool huh?

4. Another benefit to regularly getting together with girlfriends to play golf is that you can't help but improve if you 'keep on keeping on' ...it's like anything else...just like the Bible says, "sowing and reaping".....oh yeah.

5. Another blessing that comes from playing golf for His glory is that when we have special friends who either already play golf or are willing to learn to play ..... our outings become something very precious that God uses to minister to each one of us personally -- and to add more blessings, we end up ministering to each other .......and that's awesome!

You are invited to join our

Fall 2008 Fore His Glory Ladies Bible Study

at

Woodmont Golf & Country Club

3105 Gaddis Road

Canton, GA 30115

beginning

Wednesday, August 20, 2008.

9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Our study material is the book

"Just Enough Light for the Step I'm On"

by Stormie Omartian

Yes, we meet at a country club but you do not have to know how to play golf, nor do you have a be a resident of the neighborhood. Hey, we've got girls coming from everywhere and it's a blessing! It's like heaven...we come from all walks of life. This is a Bible study outreach and we're reaching out to you! Please send us your comments and questions.

Bee the Ball

One thing I have learned about this sport: Tension and golf do not a harmonious experience make.

Everything I have read and learned from Mr. Don and the ladies of FHG Bible study, tells me this is so. The best play comes when you relax.

Relaxing for me requires tossing out all the 'stuff' that usually jumps into this Mawmaw's head whenever I have a calm moment.

That said, if not prepared, I find some of the strangest thoughts enter my mind at the most inappropriate times…with my ADD tendency's, should this really come as a surprise? I think not.

Where was I?

Oh yes, tension and golf...

Last week, as a few gals were fine tuning their putting skills and I was seeking to gain some, I found myself thinking...

'Be the ball. Just be the ball'.

Where had I heard that before? It sounded fairly profound...like something a golfer might say to get in tune with their game. I didn't recall Don or any of the Warrior Chicks espousing this refrain. No, I had not read it in Ben Hogan's Five Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf.

I was at a loss.

But hey, in addition to the ADD thing, I periodically suffer sever Mom-nesia, so the fact that I was experiencing this momentary loss of recollection was no surprise. Mom-nesia? The inability at any given time to recall everything from say...your child's name, where you left your car keys, or whether you've ever met a US president in your lifetime. The condition is linked to the abundant - at times useless and mind numbing information mothers collect in the course of child rearing.

Such as...the names of all the Sesame Street characters, and where they get their hair done, identifying animals and inanimate objects from slices of toast or pizza, the oh so endless hours of playing Go Fish with paint chips.

Yes, Mom-nesia has taken it's toll on many a fine woman. It's a wonder we can dress ourselves some mornings!

Anyway... 'Be the ball. Just be the ball'.

Truth be told, this mantra did not arrive completely out of the blue. It was prompted by the arrival of some tiny, winged, yellow jacketed golf enthusiast, commonly known as Bees.

Want to enjoy a nice relaxing bout of putting? Do not invite bees. Bees do not play the same way we do. They are very possessive and clingy as it were. They make the game all about them. This particular group decided they really wanted to ride the balls I was trying to putt, which meant I could not play without whoppin them upside their stinger, what with them, tryin to 'bee' the ball.

No amount of refocusing on my instructions from Mr. D or recalling the Annika tip I got the week before helped that day. Those bees were determined to be...on the balls.

Bee...be...be...as I stood there observing my new partners frantically clinging to each white globe my ADD dissolved and Mom-nesia took a hike, as the other 'Be's' flooded my mind and heart.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ." Ephesians 1:3

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." Romans 12:2

"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!" Psalm 46:10

Imagine a huge smile (that would be me!) as I praised and thanked God right there on the Woodmont putting green. Once again He was speaking to me and showing me Himself in places and ways I never saw coming. Whoa! How glorious!

He is all about the details and the daily grind. Nothing is too big, small or innate for Him to just get all over with us!

Don't you just love Him?

Hello, Everyone.
I can not tell you how much the Lord has blessed me through becoming friends with the women in this study and through the teachings in this study. Please come and join us ladies who have not come and experienced the blessing of the women and our leader, Polly.
His Love,
Mary Jo :-)

His Grace IS Enough for Me

Today is the first anniversary of my mother's passing.

Mary Elizabeth Gillette Brown

November 26, 1919 - July 5, 2007

Some of you in the Bible study have read the following page written in my journal dated May 27, 2007. However, since our name change from Woodmont Ladies Bible Study to Fore His Glory, the Lord reminded me of something else my mother shared with me about God and golf so I'm sharing another page of my journal dated May 11, 2004.


May 11, 2004
Journal
Mom was here for a visit and she & I talked this afternoon in our family room watching the golf pros play in a tournament. She started talking about golf on TV and about being spiritual. She said she doesn't think about golf without thinking about God, and she said, "He is in everything and it's very, very important to me. Whenever I'm playing I think about Him. It's not just about golf. It is of the utmost importance. I know I'm a lot older than you, Polly, but when God tells me to do something I say, 'Yes, I'll do it" and when He tells me not to do something I will not do it. He speaks to me and this is very important to me. I think this is right and I think it is Him talking to me. Sometimes when you children [I have 4 siblings] have problems I'll tell you to do what is right and then I'll go and pray and wait to see what God will do about it."

I told her that I thought it was right and good that she was doing that. She asked me if I think that way and I said, "Yes, He is everything to me and I try very hard to obey Him. It's important to me, too." She said she was so glad and had tears in her eyes. "That's good", she said, "that's very good."

When we looked at the Woodmont Ladies Bible study scrapbook I created she kept getting teary and finally said, "This so good that you are doing all of this. I just love it. This is such a good thing and, it's you! Keep it up!" -- Polly


May 27, 2007
Journal
When I was playing golf today with three friends, I started thinking about Mom and how she has given me such a wonderful legacy of loving life… and even teaching me to play golf at a very early age.
While I was on the course, I started to remember what she was like on my last trip to Coral Gables (FL)…she had to be bathed and dressed. Couldn’t go to the bathroom by herself…couldn’t walk alone and struggled to speak. She would shuffle to walk but it took two people to help her. BUT, she was still so pleasant and cordial and gracious and willing to do whatever was in front of her. She has always been that way…just accepting what she was given with thankfulness.

Growing up and even in my adulthood she always made everything in life an adventure; when we would be eating outdoors and she’d say, “We’re having a party!” Whatever it was, she made it special somehow; by her words and her attitude.

When we were living in Pennsylvania on the farm, she’d load up a picnic basket and then load us in the station wagon and we’d drive down a pasture road and then she’d stop by our creek. She’d start a fire and get out her huge black iron skillet and make us fried egg sandwiches. We were having another party! Mom saw life as an adventure and always wanted to make the most of every moment with a joyful, thankful attitude.

She even handled the ripple effects of her tragic divorce with so much grace: Dad walked out on her with no warning and leaving her with 5 children. She had the heartbreak of him leaving and she obviously loved him, and then she faced the relentless struggles of raising the five of us high-energy children. She didn’t complain about our dad leaving. She didn’t complain when she had to put food on the table (we had HUGE appetites). She loved us deeply and kept us all together. She made birthdays special. She made holidays special. We took trips to Florida. We rented large cabins in NC for the summer. We took regular beach trips and beachside vacations. We learned to play golf at young ages. We fished. We went boating. We had people over all the time for dinner.

One of her secrets is that she didn’t expect anything from anyone. She just gave from her generous heart. Everyone loved Mom and everyone in town knew her name: Mary Brown. She loved to entertain in our home and loved to dance and sing and loved to eat, especially ice cream! She had quite the gift of hospitality.

Another one of her secrets is that she did not care what people thought of her. She didn’t think about herself. She didn’t care if she got other people’s approval. That didn’t matter to her. She wasn’t impressed with nice things, even though that was the lifestyle she grew up in. She wasn’t a snob. She just wanted to love people and make them feel good.

She had faith in God. But she was very quiet about it. It was like: She simply BELIEVED. She made sure we all went to church, Sunday school and Vacation Bible School. We grew up going to church. A few years ago she told me she prayed for things and prayed for us (her children) and she then would leave it with God and not worry about it after she prayed.

But when I was playing golf today and thinking how calm she was when I last saw her and she just accepted what was going on: her body failing and not able to take care of herself, it made me think: ‘That is the kind of abandonment God desires of me (of all His children) to just hand over my life to HIM and trust and believe He WILL take care of me, He will take good care of me.’ That’s the way she lived. She lived an abundant life. God gave that to her. God did it.

And now He is showing me that I am living the life she wanted for me…she used to tell me, “You should be living in a country club and you and Don and the girls should be using the pool, and the girls should be having their friends come over to the club and play tennis, too, and you should use the golf course. You and Don should be going to the club for dinner. You should be playing golf again! I know you love to play and you do it well.”

A few years ago she came to visit us and stayed with us a few days. It was obvious she was beginning to get very sick and yet she said, clearly and succinctly, “This house is you, Polly. This is where you belong. What do you need? What can I do for you? What can I give you?” I said, “Nothing, Mom. I have everything I need.” She just sat beside me and hugged me. She was so happy to know I am doing Bible studies. She loved it. She loved it that I’m a writer, too. She acted so pleased to know what God is doing with my life. It is as if she prayed this all along! Maybe that’s what this is all about…maybe God is showing me I’m living the life she prayed for me all along and that’s why she’s so happy about it. --- Polly

July 5, 2007
God is the only one who can heal my broken heart....and He's doing it. There has been great power that has come from the countless, fervent prayers of my sisters and brothers in Christ. Here's what I'm talking about: I used to cry every time I even thought about Mom, and I couldn't talk about her without my eyes watering, but now I can say out loud, "Thank you, Lord, for giving me such a cool mom!" I have lots of the most amazing and wonderful memories to bless and comfort my heart. I know she's with Jesus and some day I'm going to see her again!

--Polly

"The Lord is my light...."

Psalm 27:1

----Polly

Ever Prayed For "Vitality"?????

My spiritual mother (AKA my mentor) often reminds me, "The hardest thing for a Christian to do is pray." She says that because the enemy of our souls knows what happens when God's people pray: mountains move, people are healed, relationships are restored, needs are met, battles are won ---frankly, His Will is done!

However, if our prayers are interrupted and/or hindered (that's the "enemy of our souls" part) because we're too tired and too busy to stop and pray every day-- then we're not as effective as we could be. Ever notice what happens when you find a quiet place to pray? Uh-huh. Distractions come: the phone rings, the dryer buzzer goes off, your dog nudges you with a cold wet nose to go 'out', the bug man is at your front door stuffing your bill in the door jam, your mind wanders to that hill of clean towels on your kitchen table....you get the picture.

And yet, God knows this and still, He tells us in His word to pray continually and to keep on praying for all the saints. We can pray when we're washing dishes, going for a walk, even while driving a carpool -- only don't close your eyes for that one! It's still effective to pray with your eyes open, Girls! It still counts.

Why do we pray? Because God tells us that "we don't have because we don't ask" Him for it. Something happens to us every time we pray---we grow closer to God and deepen our relationship with Him. The truth is everything comes from His Hands. When we pray we're acknowledging that all things DO come from Him...and that brings Him glory.

I remember when I was the publicity/marketing person for a Christian school. Very early every morning I would arrive like a bright-eyed cheerleader (the explanation comes later) long before each school day began to greet each car that drove up to the front door. My job was to welcome each parent with a huge smile and then open their child's door and help them out of the vehicle.

Well, I thought, this is definitely a marketing thing...and it would be good to show lots of energy to the families dropping their children off each morning and it would give them a cheerful start to their day.....so I began to pray for "vitality". Yep. And lo and behold God answered that prayer. I didn't even need caffeinated coffee. No sireee, without realizing it I was giving each driver a big "Gooooood Morning!" and I'd fling their child's door open and said, "Goood morning! Welcome to our school!" As each parent drove away leaving me in a cloud of dust and small rocks (the parking lot wasn't paved yet) I'd wave and call out, "Have a nice day!!!!!"

Parents began to ask me how I was so cheerful and so energetic so early in the morning, every morning. When I told one parent, "Well, I prayed that God would give me vitality so I could provide "a little sunshine" to each family as they drive up to the school. Another parent heard my explanation and gave me a stare while being very pensive and then said, "Well, hmmmmm, I think I'm going to start praying for my wife to have vitality!" Ahhhhhh, things that make you go, hmmmmm.

Girlfriends, there is nothing we can't pray about and there's nothing too small or too big for God to provide in answer to prayer. We need to be praying about everything and then watch and wait for God's amazing answer. He will do it and His answer will always be better than we could ever ask or think of asking. That's who He is!

I love to say: "I can't fix it, I can't heal it, I can't help make it better, but I know WHO can....so I pray!to the one WHO rules and reigns over the universe!"

I'd love to hear how God has used prayer in your life to accomplish amazing things. I look forward to hearing from you!
God bless you, Sweet Sisters!
Polly

And to think I was going to talk about Annika Sorenstam

Wow, another Wednesday with the Fore His Glory Bunch !

A little putt'n... A little lunch... A LOT of fellowship!
What a Blessing!!

Who knew?
Okay, God of course...Him being all sovereign and everything!

Before I proceed you need to know a few things about me...I speak and write in run-on sentences, and...

Prior to Fore His Glory Ladies Bible Study, the sum total of my golfing skills consisted of my ability to select 'the' perfect golf ball that would coordinated beautifully with whatever ensemble I wore that day...or night to the local mini-golf.

Club selection....uh...does it really matter?

See the hole... hit the ball into the hole, right?

Through the windmill, around the water hazard, over the bridge then a big finish with much fanfare by sinking the ball into the Clowns nose...Sweet!!

I could not be more wrong.

Lo and behold there is so much more to this game. For starters, if you are playing on a fine course like the one we are blessed to use at Woodmont, you are required...REQUIRED mind you to follow a certain dress code that has nothing to do with matching your ball or club to your ensemble.

Imagine!!

The dress code is more like... no jeans, yoga pants or sweat suits.
A southern lady staple, 'The Capri Pant', works well here.... I was so relieved!

Whatever you wear, you must... MUST mind you....Wear a collared top.
I could give you my thoughts on this collar thing, but that should probably be saved for another day. Although I will say... I never really noticed the whole collar requirement taking hold on the Putt Putt circuit...I guess it's just one more thing that distinguishes the two types of golf.

Anyway...am I alone in loving a good justification for shopping? I think not. After a trip to the PGA Superstore, Sports Authority and Steinmart...don't you just love Steinmart! I was set...or so I thought.

I figured looking like I knew what I was doing might make up for the fact I sooo do NOT know what I'm doing. Dressing for success did not worked out the way I imagined at all...Oh, my utter astonishment!

Here's the thing....
I joined this wonderful Bible believing, golf bag tote'n group over 2 months ago, I was thrilled to be included. Trust me when I tell you, there are some gals in this crowd who really know their stuff! Many with much such skill not to mention incredible fashion sense.

There are some golf wardrobe, the likes of which can only be found inside the pages of InStyle Sports....umm...does InStyle have a Sports edition?...sorry, I digress.

I want you to know, this eclectic gang of sweet sisters don't just 'appear' to play the game, they know it. They talk the talk and walk the walk...and ever so humbly I must add.

Those of us with lesser talents (and there are quite a few of us) are regularly embraced for who we are and where we are in our golf and life journey. The entire mess of us consistently encourage and lift each other up in all the areas of our lives, not the least of which in our spiritual lives. Enabling one another to set out for the course once more with renewed spirit.

And have I mentioned Don....


the remarkable and Godly Woodmont golf pro who has patiently been instructing us on everything from putting, chipping to the best use of drivers, putters and a sandwich...uh sand wedges?

Among other things, Don points out the need to use the right equipment in every situation to get the results you desire.
This is SOOO true.



Case in point:
I discovered yesterday the reason you don't want to use a driver when attempting to chip the ball onto the green... besides really missing your mark,

You could hurt somebody...bad!

Friend, golf is some serious business. I am striving to hit my mark and help...not hurt anyone in the process! I can't say that has always been true.

Now for the analogies...yes, I do have a point here and I thank the two of you who stayed with me thus far.

Fortunately, it has not taken me too very long to see similarities between the golf lessons I have been privileged to partake in and the life instructions graciously given in Ephesians 6:10-18.

I like how the Message Bible puts this;

"And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels.
Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out. "

Golf is an activity you can enjoy for a few hours and walk away from. Not all that treacherous unless you choose to play during lightening storm or....happened to be on the green with me yesterday.

Unlike Life, where we regularly face serious...often fatal battles, this life is no game. We encounter every kind of pain, hurt, and struggle the enemy can throw. Thank God for giving us the teaching and equipment we need in His Word to live victoriously and gloriously in Him. My prayer is that we continue to "Press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me in heavenword Christ Jesus."

Yes, taking part in this fellowship continues to abundantly bless and equip me for so much more than listed above...by His grace and for His Glory!

How cool is that?

See you on the green,
Tammy

We are the lighthouses, Jesus is the light!

The Bible says we are God's vessels bought by the blood of His Son Jesus Christ, as He suffered and died a terrible death on the cross, and then He rose again! Yes, there was a magnificent price paid for our privilege to become His daughters. And now we are the temple for the Holy Spirit to dwell. Picture this: we are the lighthouses where His light can radiate (1 Cor. 6:19, John 8:12, Matt. 5:14)! This is a high calling!

God has made us in all shapes and sizes, with different gifts, talents, and abilities because He has important and valuable things for us do to for Him. Girlfriends, we were created to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever (Matt: 5:16). So let's get busy!

It's a struggle for all of us to resist the worldly influences of what magazines and movies tempt us to imitate: the perfect body, the perfect skin, the perfect make-up, the perfect hair, the perfect home, the perfect family......however, perfection doesn't exist in this world. It's an unattainable goal that causes us problems when we try to latch onto such worldly priorities instead of God's desires for each one of us.

We need to be shining His light in this dark world by "seeking His kingdom first, and His righteousness and then all these things (needs) will be given to us." (Matt. 6:33) Do you have a need? When we diligently and faithfully spend time with Him, His Word, and His people, He will truly satisfy us, fill us, and give us contentment and peace (Matt. 7:7-8). We will begin to enjoy Him more and more as our relationship with Him deepens. We will begin to shine brighter with His love and light and laughter and wisdom and joy that only comes from knowing Him.

So Girlfriends, let's prayerfully consider taking those steps to shine His light, even writing that notecard of encouragement, calling that friend in need, making that meal for a neighbor, finding the grace to forgive someone, and praying faithfully and unceasingly (I Thess. 5:17) so we can see Almighty God move mountains. He is able!

As we draw nearer to Him, He will make us more and more radiant.

---Polly
"The Lord is my light.." Psalm 27:1.

Welcome!

We'd like to introduce Fore His Glory Ladies Bible Study @ Woodmont Golf & Country Club to you with this recently published article from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

COMMUNITIES OF FAITH: Woodmont Bible Study Maintains Ministry Zeal
By Candice Hannigan
For the Journal-Constitution Published on: 06/12/08

Some east Cherokee County women who are enrolled in a neighborhood Bible study have gained more than new biblical insights during the spring session. A few ladies are buying their first pair of golf shoes and signing up for free putting and chipping lessons encouraged by their experiences in the May focus on "FORE His Glory."

While the fall session won't include golf, organizer Polly Balint hopes to revive the golf theme next May. Balint also has decided to keep the "FORE His Glory" title for the women's Bible study, set in the Woodmont Golf and Country Club neighborhood.
Balint recently explained how the study began, and the impact it has had on the community.

Q: How did the ladies' Bible study get started?
A: When my husband, daughters and I moved into Woodmont in May 2000, I started praying that God would make me shine His light in our neighborhood, and I prayed it every day. In a very short time, I got a strong sense that I should lead a ladies Bible study in our home. I found a book, "Move Over Victoria, I Know the Real Secret," which was funny yet a serious study on the everyday idols in our lives. I created a flier inviting my neighbors to the study and drove around the neighborhood with my two daughters stuffing the 125 mailboxes in Woodmont. In four days, I received 25 phone calls from women I had never met saying they wanted to come to the study.
That was eight years ago. Now there are more than 600 houses in Woodmont, and I'm still stuffing mailboxes. Women are coming from Marietta, Woodstock and Canton, too.

Q: How has the Bible study transformed your community?
A: We've participated in outreach programs, providing Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter meals for a women's shelter. We've made financial donations and bought Christmas presents for the mothers and children living there. The Bible study ladies recently donated items for Heart for Africa and Cherokee County's Give a Kid a Chance outreach. We've taken collections and made meals for families in need in our neighborhood. The Lord has kept this ministry going for eight years, and most people who live in Woodmont know about it. We've had people who do not attend the study ask us to pray for them, their family members and their friends. The management and staff at Woodmont Golf and Country Club have been gracious and supportive of all our activities and efforts to serve our own community.

Q: Is there something unique or unusual about your group?
A: We are women of all ages, all denominations, all backgrounds who have come together to seek God. The group consists of real women with real struggles and real blessings to share. Last session we finished a study called "Warrior Chicks." That's what these women are: real women with real hurts and real joys and a zeal for God. We're learning together how to overcome through seeking God and serving others. We laugh and we cry together, but believe me there is more laughter than tears because we know God is with us.

Fore His Glory Ladies Bible Study @ Woodmont Golf and Country Club
Contact: forehisglory@gmail.com
Meeting times: 9:00-11:30 a.m. Wednesdays
Next study begins: August 20, 2008