Resting In HIS Arms

"But that's exactly how you will be addressed. God will speak to this people In baby talk, one syllable at a time— and he'll do it through foreign oppressors. He said before, "This is the time and place to rest, to give rest to the weary. This is the place to lay down your burden." But they won't listen." Isaiah 28:11 The Message

Listen to GOD! Lay your heavy burden at HIS feet and rest in HIS arms. Do "not" become entangled in the trappings of this world. Whatever you are facing, remember: The battle belongs to the LORD! Worry is not your friend.

Resting in the arms of my Savior,

Andrea

~Thank you for your continued prayers for each of my friends who are in the midst of medical crisis. Two friends with breast cancer and one with a stroke. GOD BLESS you for your faithfulness to pray!

Stylish Blogger Award

Nancy at Boomers and Scribblers nominated me for the Stylish Blogger Award! Nancy has been a faithful follower of Arise 2 Write for a long time. She is a blessing and has become a friend and devoted sister in the Lord. Please visit Nancy and you will be touched by her sincere and genuine faith, just as I have been.

A part of receiving this award is sharing seven things about myself, so here goes:

1)Like some of you, I am challenged by circumstances from my childhood. My Heavenly Father has been the constant in my life, giving me the desire to write from a very early age. He continues to use writing to heal and restore my heart. Whatever is going on in your life right now, I challenge you to "write your way through it!"

2)I am the daughter of two parents who did not plan or want me. They were very young and married as a result of my conception. I was primarily raised by my maternal grandparents. They are fully responsible for giving me a foundation of faith and love!

3)I am the oldest of three daughters. My middle sister, Courtney lives many miles away, but we are best of friends! My youngest sister, Dayna was tragically killed in 1989. She is never more than a thought away.

4)I am the mother of three sons and two daughters. We have a blended family, but in both mine and my husbands hearts each of our children is "ours!" God brought us together and has beautifully blessed both us and our children. The blending process was challenging and sometimes painful, but I  am thankful HE knew what was best for each of us.

5)Recently, I accepted GOD's call to write a memoir or memoirs about my childhood. I have passionately embraced this call, yet there are days I am passionately running in the opposite direction.

6)I am the mom to three therapy dogs. I trained them and have been blessed to be the human at the end of the leash as GOD uses them in the lives of many.

7)My dream would be to have my own mountain with a small cabin. My dream cabin would have indoor plumbing and heat and a/c. I am a bit spoiled. My mountain would have a fence around the base so my dogs could roam free. So now you know the real me!

I am passing this award to the following bloggers:

1)Rich Gifts: I would not have a beautiful blog without Edie at Rich Gifts. She is a beautiful woman with a beautiful heart who is very tech savvy. She is responsible for the blog design of Arise 2 Write.

2)Divinely Designed: I would not be a blogger if it were not for the persistence of Mary. She pushed, shoved, and drug me by the hair of the head into the blog world. She has been a faithful friend and prayer warrior, despite the physical injuries, ha ha! Mary is also a published author and professional speaker. She has an expensive bio, too long to list here!

3)To each of my followers: Each of you have a stylish and unique blog, all beautiful in their own way. Please accept this award and post it on your blogs. Each of you deserve it. 


By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

~Please continue to pray for my friends. Several friends are in the midst of medical crisis. Please pray for me as I try to be the best friend I can be for each of them.

"Nothing Gold Can Stay"

In October, I drove to South Carolina for a family funeral. While there, I visited my baby sister, Dayna's grave. I took this picture from her grave. What a view. I miss her terribly, but I am comforted by the beauty surrounding her grave. In the midst of deep pain, my heart is blessed by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Once again, I am reminded of how deeply GOD cares about the details of my life.

Dayna's tombstone is flat and has her favorite poem on it. Each time I read this poem, I think of my beautiful baby sister and how Robert Frost captured our hearts so very well.

Nothing Gold Can Stay

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

By: Robert Frost

By His mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

~Please pray for several of my friends who are in the midst of medical crisis. I will spending this week and part of next taking each of them for biopsies and surgeries! GOD BLESS each of you!

What Does This Picture and Passage Say To You?

" ¹ “At this my heart pounds
   and leaps from its place.
² Listen! Listen to the roar of his voice,
   to the rumbling that comes from his mouth.
³ He unleashes his lightning beneath the whole heaven
   and sends it to the ends of the earth.
⁴ After that comes the sound of his roar;
   he thunders with his majestic voice.
When his voice resounds,
   he holds nothing back.
⁵ God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways;
   he does great things beyond our understanding.
⁶ He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth,’
   and to the rain shower, ‘Be a mighty downpour.’
⁷ So that everyone he has made may know his work,
   he stops all people from their labor.^[a]
8 The animals take cover;
   they remain in their dens.
⁹ The tempest comes out from its chamber,
   the cold from the driving winds.
¹⁰ The breath of God produces ice,
   and the broad waters become frozen.
¹¹ He loads the clouds with moisture;
   he scatters his lightning through them.
¹² At his direction they swirl around
   over the face of the whole earth
   to do whatever he commands them.
¹³ He brings the clouds to punish people,
   or to water his earth and show his love.
 ¹⁴ “Listen to this, Job;
   stop and consider God’s wonders.
¹⁵ Do you know how God controls the clouds
   and makes his lightning flash?
¹⁶ Do you know how the clouds hang poised,
   those wonders of him who has perfect knowledge?
¹⁷ You who swelter in your clothes
   when the land lies hushed under the south wind,
¹⁸ can you join him in spreading out the skies,
   hard as a mirror of cast bronze?
 ¹⁹ “Tell us what we should say to him;
   we cannot draw up our case because of our darkness.
²⁰ Should he be told that I want to speak?
   Would anyone ask to be swallowed up?
²¹ Now no one can look at the sun,
   bright as it is in the skies
   after the wind has swept them clean.
²² Out of the north he comes in golden splendor;
   God comes in awesome majesty.
²³ The Almighty is beyond our reach and exalted in power;
   in his justice and great righteousness, he does not oppress.
²⁴ Therefore, people revere him,
   for does he not have regard for all the wise in heart?^[b]”"
Job 37 NIV

What does this picture and passage say to you? How is GOD speaking to you, today?

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Happy Birthday Wil!

It is hard to believe my baby boy, Wil is 18 years old. It all began a little stormy for he and I. He was due the end of March, but my body did not want to cooperate. I endured soaring blood pressures and other issues ultimately leading to hospitalization, seizures, other complications, and the early arrival of my  precious baby. He weighed in at a whopping 5 pounds with a head full of black hair. He looked like a giant beside the other preemies, but looks were deceiving. He lost down to 4 pounds taking him a little while to begin developing normally. At his "one" year check up he weighed 16 pounds. As you see in the picture above, he caught up. He has become an exceptional young man. He is full of compassion and always "tries" to do the right thing. He loves the Lord and is a great friend to "everyone." What more could this mommie ask for? Not a thing!

Blessed to be a mom,

Andrea

Choices

"Each day, each life, is a series of choices, and as we use the lens of writing to view our lives, we see our choices." Julia Cameron

Father GOD, please use our choices for greater good in our lives and the lives of others. Help us to capture the view in a healthy and productive manner and move forward to become the people you so delicately and intricately created us to be!

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Be Still, Wait, and Watch

"It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and winter." Psalm 74:17 NIV

"I prefer winter and fall, when you feel the bone structure of the landscape — the loneliness of it, the dead feeling of winter. Something waits beneath it, the whole story doesn’t show."
Andrew Wyeth American painter, 20th century

Winter brought sickness to our home. After three plus weeks of illness, we are scouring our home. We hope to enjoy the rest of Winter disease free. While in a long term recumbent position I was able to reflect, pray, and see winter a little differently. Many times we dread winter, but there is much beauty to be seen, even through the sickness we may endure. Sometimes, we simply need be still, wait, and watch!

Are you being still?
Are you waiting patiently?
If so, what are you seeing through fresh eyes?

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Resting, Listening, Waiting

This Sitka Spruce stands tall. It's strength and endurance amaze me. Lately, I have not felt tall, strong, or anything close. I ushered in the New Year with sickness and as I began to heal, I became ill again. This past weekend was difficult to say the least. I was threatened with being admitted to the hospital and receiving IV's. I am determined to continue forward, resting in HIS arms. I am learning I can NOT run ahead of GOD. I must rest, listen, and wait.

I praise GOD for each of your prayers, love, sweet comments, and encouragement. GOD has used each of you to touch my heart deeply.

Resting, listening, and waiting,

Andrea

One Step Forward, Three Steps Backwards

One step forward, three steps backwards. With each breath, I hope to be well. As days turn into weeks and I continue to battle lingering respiratory issues. I am exhausted! I realize how lacking I am in the area of patience and tolerance. I find it difficult to see the good in this, however, I am determined to praise GOD in all circumstances!


"........I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, ¹⁴ I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us." Philippians 3:13-14 NLT

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Resting In His Arms

With each day, I am feeling a little better. I continue to rest in my Heavenly Father's arms soaking in HIS presence. Patience is "not" something I do well! I continue to learn to appreciate and value God's timing.


"...the joy of the Lord is my strength." Nehemiah 8:10

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Beautiful Blessings

Christmas brought a beautiful blessing for both Sitka and I. Snow graced our central Virginia home. Being the mom of Nordic breeds, I share their love for snow. I love to watch them romp and play in it. On this day, Sitka and I were enjoying my new Bible. It is "waterproof!" It is made of synthetic material. I can underline in it and use dry highlighters and it does NOT smear or ruin when it gets wet. The water just "rolls" off. I love snow and I love reading my Bible. What a beautiful combination! I am known to drag my Bible "everywhere." This one is perfect. I am thankful Sitka and I now have a sturdy Bible for our adventures!

Thank you for your prayers, love, encouragement, and support. Both Doug and I are feeling better. We are continuing to treat this respiratory flu with hot tea, musinex, and lots of rest. GOD bless each of you for your prayers!

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Happy New Year

Doug and I ushered in the New Year with a respiratory virus. We continue to be plagued with its effects. As we sleep, drink hot tea, and allow this bug to run its course, we pray each of you are well and beginning the New Year triumphantly. It is our prayer each of you will experience a year full of unexpected blessings and new beginnings.

Soaking in HIS presence,
Andrea

Resting In HIS Arms

As I sip my morning coffee, I gather my thoughts. Weary and tired, I face a new day. The beauty of GODS creation renews my senses and reminds me of GODS comfort and peace. HE is faithful to prepare the way before me. HE loves me and most certainly HE loves each of you.

Take comfort as the storms of life toss you about. Climb into HIS arms and rest!

"And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows." Luke 12:7 NLT


Resting In HIS arms,

Andrea

A Beatiful Christmas Snow!

December 2010


A beautiful Christmas snow! The snowflakes continue to fall here in Richmond, Virginia. I pray each of you who are experiencing snow (winter weather) will be warm and safe while enjoying a peaceful day!

Blessed to have vision to see,

Andrea

Merry Christmas!

Savannah and Elijah, our greatest blessings!





















May each of you have a Merry Christmas filled with happiness and sweet peace! May your hearts be healed of any pain and heartache. May you be filled with the love of Christ!

Blessings, hugs, and prayers,

Doug and Andrea Perdue
and The Perdue Zoo

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

Each of you who left a comment on my last post touched my heart. I, too share both of those scenario's. I "love" church, yet there have been times when I have been terribly wounded there. Recently, God placed many in my path who have shared their pain. After praying about my own situations and many of theirs, I felt led to simply post the question, "What is church to you?" I had no idea what GOD was doing, but I knew I had to obey and post. Thankful is not a strong enough word! I know your comments moved mountains in many lives. Your honesty, love, and sincerity are sprinkled through each comment. Truly, the heart of GOD shined brightly! GOD BLESS each of you and thank you for taking the time to answer.

For anyone visiting who is not familiar with the last post, please go back and read it, taking time to soak and absorb each comment. You will be blessed by the many living vessels who allowed GOD to speak through them.

Blessed to be HIS,

Andrea

What Is Church For You?

Today, I would like to ask a few questions. What is church for you? Is it a safe haven? a place of refuge? or a place where you were battered, bruised, or hurt?

Growing in faith with HIM,

Andrea

And The Truth Is:

And, the truth is: Anything good or worthy coming from my actions is clearly GOD and HE alone! On my own, I bumble and stumble my way through life. Try as I may, my sinful nature rears its ugly head more times than I would like to admit.

" ⁴ So, my dear brothers and sisters, this is the point: You died to the power of the law when you died with Christ. And now you are united with the one who was raised from the dead. As a result, we can produce a harvest of good deeds for God. ⁵ When we were controlled by our old nature,^[a] sinful desires were at work within us, and the law aroused these evil desires that produced a harvest of sinful deeds, resulting in death. ⁶ But now we have been released from the law, for we died to it and are no longer captive to its power. Now we can serve God, not in the old way of obeying the letter of the law, but in the new way of living in the Spirit." Romans 7:4-6 NLT

Growing together in Christ,

Andrea

Be Refreshed and Renewed

Today, as life's challenges bombard you, allow the fresh water of the Holy Spirit to wash over you. Be refreshed and renewed. Cling to HIS peace and unconditional love!

Resting in the arms of my Savior,

Andrea

Stepping Beyond

This picture was taken a few weeks ago at Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens in Richmond, Virginia. A close friend and I walked, chatted, and snapped some pictures as we enjoyed the beauty surrounding us. Much of the time, life is what we make of it. Our attitude is key to whether amidst life's storms we are able to enjoy life or not.

"If therefore there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose." Philippians 2:1-2 NAS

Today, I am thankful to step beyond life circumstances and enjoy the beauty and blessings around me. I am thankful GOD has brought me to this place in life. I pray each of you will step beyond your circumstances and enjoy all GOD has for you, today!

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

~Prayer request: Please pray for a close friend who has breast cancer. Also pray for me as I join her visiting doctors and surgeons. THANK YOU!

New Beginnings!

As I sit here today reflecting on "new beginnings" and "start overs" my heart smiles. My life has been full of ups and downs, some my fault and some the result of others actions. With GODS grace and love, each time I have began anew continuing to put one foot in front of the other!

Last weekend, I journeyed to South Carolina for my aunts funeral. My cousin Jennifer and her husband, Travis graciously allowed me to stay with them. The second and third night my sister, Courtney joined us. Each night I ran out of steam before Courtney and Jen and went to bed. I laid awake and listened to them giggle and laugh. It reminded me of listening to Courtney and our younger sister Dayna giggle and laugh. Dayna was tragically killed in a car accident in 1989 and each of us miss her very much. I do not weep for her, because I know she is in a place with no earthly sorrow. However, there are days when I weep for "me!" I miss her giggles and her great big smile!

I am much older than Jennifer even though we are first cousins. Recently, I realized GOD has given me the blessing of being the "Big Sister" again. Occasionally, I get a call or text that says something like, "What do you think about this? or that?" and I am honored to take each of those calls. My heart smiles as I see GOD giving me a chance to be a significant part of Jennifer's life. I love her dearly, as I do all of my cousins. I am blessed beyond words can express to be a part of Jennifer's life! Thank you, Jenn for loving this "old" cousin and thank you for being you!

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

GOD Never Fails

With each sunset my heart finds peace. I reflect upon the day and look to the future with eager expectation. I am filled with HIS presence and I cling tightly to the hem of HIS garment. With GOD all things are possible and I am living proof! When storms come, look to HIM who loves you most! GOD never fails!

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
   I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
² When you pass through the waters,
   I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
   they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
   you will not be burned;
   the flames will not set you ablaze.
³ For I am the LORD your God,
   the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."

Isaiah 43:1b-3a NIV

 By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

My Interview at Robin's Nest

Today, you will find me over at Robin's Nest being interviewed by Robin! I am always amazed at GOD's timing. He knew what I needed to experience to answer Robin's questions and paved every step of the way. Please hope over and check out my interview.

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Happy Thanksgiving!

May each of you have a blessed Thanksgiving!
Andrea Bowling Perdue

In Memory of Carolyn Bowling

Please remember the Bowling family as we celebrate the life of Aunt Carolyn!

CAROLYN D. BOWLING
JULY 16, 1940 – NOVEMBER 17, 2010

ANDERSON, SC – Carolyn Burke Davis Bowling, age 70, of 515 Richland Creek Road, passed away on Wednesday, November 17, 2010, at Willow Creek Living Center in Iva, SC.

Born in Anderson, SC, on July 16, 1940, she was the daughter of the late Samuel A. Davis and Carrie Burke Davis. Mrs. Bowling was a graduate of Dixie High School and attended Erskine College. She was a retired Executive Secretary on the collegiate level – namely Furman University and Clemson University. She was a member of New Hope United Methodist Church.

Survivors include her husband of nearly fifty-two years, The Reverend Dr. Ralph T. Bowling, Jr., of the home; and their sons: The Reverend Ralph T. Bowling III and wife, Karen of Hodges, SC, and Mark A. Bowling and wife, Elena of Duncan, SC; four beloved grandchildren: Lauren B. Hutto and husband, Jason of Columbus, GA, Meghan N. Greer and husband, Curtis of Seneca, Jared R. Bowling of Atlanta, GA, and Taylor A. Bowling of Travelers Rest, SC; and one great granddaughter, Alexa Elizabeth-Marie Hutto of Columbus, GA.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Samuel A. Davis, Jr.

The Funeral Service will be held at 2pm on Sunday, November 21, 2010, at Starr United Methodist Church conducted by The Reverend Dr. Robert E. Stilwell, The Reverend John M. Williams, Jr., and The Reverend Susan Leonard-Ray. The burial and committal service will follow in Hebron United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Members of Starr United Methodist Church and Hebron United Methodist Church will serve as honorary pallbearers.

The family is at the home and will receive friends at The McDougald Funeral Home from 6pm until 8:30pm on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that memorials be made to Epworth Children’s Home, 2900 Millwood Avenue, Columbia, SC 29205.

PRAISE! PRAISE! PRAISE!

After six chemo treatments my brother in law, David is in "remission!" We praise GOD for answer in the prayers of many. Indeed, HE is faithful! Our family thanks each of your for your prayers, love, encouragement, and support! Not one of them was taken for granted. We praise GOD for giving us loving family and friends!

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Thirsting For Him

"As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God." Psalm 42:1 NLT

As I journey through this life, I realize how dependent I am on God. I am unable to do any good without Him. The flesh is frail and can get me into trouble, but the spirit within me, His Spirit, renews and replenishes my soul. He is faithful to pick me up, dust me off, and set me back on the straight and narrow. My thirst for Him and all He has for me grows stronger with each breath I take!

Thirsting for more of HIM,

Andrea

Blessings and Prayers

As we share the beauty of Autumn with our grandchildren we have chosen to take them back to a simpler time. There are many celebrations during this season. Please join us as we pray for GOD's protection of each child and for HIS abundant blessing on each of their lives!

Blessed to share in GOD's abundant grace,

Andrea

Two Hearts Full of Love

Wise words spoken
From a heart full of love...

Grandfather
Granddaughter
Both hearts full of love...


Some words spoken
Some unsaid
Two hearts united by GOD's loving thread!


By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

THANK YOU and PRAYER REQUEST!

I continue to press forward. I am gaining strength and the pain is getting better. An added gain is the few pounds I have also lost during the last few weeks of persistently walking and making my health a priority. I thank GOD for each of you and your prayers. The encouragement I gain from your comments and visits is a tremendous blessing. THANK YOU is simply not good enough. I praise GOD for each of you and what your friendships mean to me. GOD has truly blessed me through the blog world far beyond my wildest dreams.

PRAYER REQUEST: My husband, Doug's aunt died yesterday (Saturday) morning. She gracefully stepped into heaven from this life. She completed an 88 year and 10 month run in this world. This week will be filled with memories, fellowship, tears, and celebration as we mourn our loss and celebrate her entrance into heaven. She had twin sons, one a pastor. Her son, Donnie (pastor) will perform the funeral on Wednesday. Please pray extra grace and strength for him.

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Contining To Run The Race

Yes, my dear friends, I continue to arise each morning and run the race before me. I am determined to stay the course. Each day, I see several elderly ladies walking pushing their walkers and two handicapped gentlemen on my walk. Each time I meet them on my lap, I am inspired. They too are staying the course.

God calls us to run the race no matter what our condition. We must continue to place one foot in front of the other, keeping our focus on HIM who loves us most! He is faithful and HE will see us through.

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,
Andrea

~The black and white paint in the above picture is Keyo (our daughters horse) and the brown and white paint is Azul (our daughter's friends horse).

Pushing Past The Pain

Each morning I awake to intense pain. Arthritis seems to be claiming my bones, joints, and even affecting my muscles. Daily, I make the choice to push past the pain. Recently, I began walking. I must strengthen my body and fight the battle. I can not surrender to this ugly disease.

Many of you face difficult health dilemmas each day. We will join together in prayer and encouragement as we continue placing one foot in front of the other. We will endure and run this race with grace! God will continue to give us the strength for each day!

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

~I am sorry I have not been visiting as much lately. I miss each of you!

Change

Change is inevitable. Sometimes, we long for change and other times we dread it. As each season brings change, look for beauty. Look for opportunities to allow HIS beauty to shine through you. Rise to the occasion and flutter about from one flower to another with a positive attitude and love in your heart!

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Standing On The Solid Rock

This picture reminds me of standing on CHRIST, the solid rock! As we stand on the faith we so cherish we also live as an example to our children and grandchildren. It takes courage to stand on "CHRIST, the solid rock!" Often, life takes us close to the edge. We must not allow fear to overtake us or interfere with our faith. When life gets a little to close to the edge for you, take a big breath and enjoy the view, knowing GOD will hold you firmly to HIS solid rock~ Christ!

Standing on the solid rock and living life close to the edge,

Andrea

Purpose

God takes us places to rekindle our spirit and renew our sense of who we are in HIM. For several years, my husband has taken me, time and time again to the gorgeous Virginia mountains. Each time, we pass this home on route 33. My eyes and heart have always been captivated by it. On our last trip, Doug slowed the SUV and I quickly took a picture.

This old home remains virtually the same, but the wash is different each time we pass. I have thought many times of the person or persons who may live in this home. What their lives may be like and what each day unfolds for them. They are beautifully nestled in the base of the mountains. There home has withstood many years of storms. It's strength evident in this picture!

The beauty found within each worn plank captivates my eye. Living life, working hard, and filling each day with purpose shows on the vessel. This vessels serves a great purpose, to protect its people! Our vessels serve a great purpose, too!

Praying each of us are found faithful as we live out our lives no matter how battered or torn our vessels may be.

Seeking HIM,

Andrea

Getting Real

Getting real and staying real is difficult, sometimes! Today, I am moving as slowly as this beautiful caterpillar. Some days are more difficult than others. I over do it and then I pay for it. We had a "big" day yesterday. I would not change one minute of it. We had our beautiful grandson and then in the evening I took pictures of our beautiful grand-horse and his horse friend. It was a blessed day.

I have much to do, today. However, I must move slower and rest in between those tasks. I am having to set boundaries. I can not do all the things I once could.

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,
Andrea

A Call To Prayer

"Answer me when I call to you, O God who declares me innocent. Free me from my troubles. Have mercy on me and hear my prayer." Psalm 4:1 NLT

"Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart." Colossians 4:2 NLT



First, I would like to share a PRAISE:

~My great nephew, Amden is once again amazing the doctors and everyone else who sees him. He is "sitting up" and we praise GOD for his progress. At seven months, his Heavenly Father is already using him in glorious ways. Don't you just love it when GOD shows us "nothing is impossible with HIM?"

Prayer Requests and Thoughts from my heart:

~Please continue to remember my brother in law, David. He endured three days of Chemo last week and is doing quite well. He had some nausea and fatigue, but was "caught" mowing his yard on the day after his 3rd Chemo treatment. We are thankful he felt well enough, but a little cranky with him for not allowing someone else to do it for him. It is still "pretty hot" in Pensacola, Florida....where he lives.

~Unspoken concerns: I can not tell you how many of my friends are in the midst of tremendous battles, right now. Not one battle, not two, but numerous battles in "each" of their lives. Each of these friends have grown stronger in their faith through this time and I praise GOD for how He is working in each of their lives. I am asking for as many of you as can and are willing to commit to pray for these people. I know you don't know them and I am not giving you many details, but trust me....they need an army to storm the heavens on their behalf and I knew just where to find that army. GOD will reign victorious. HE is faithful! I thank each of you ahead of time for your willingness to "storm the heavens" with me and I praise GOD for each of you!

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Thoughts

Oh, that Thou dost speak to my heart
My deepest thought
Always caught...

I and my Maker
I and my Friend
Always together
Today til the end!

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,
Andrea

Soaking In His Presence

The clouds of heaven beautifully decorate the eastern sky. As storms roll, God, Himself softens my fall. He envelopes me with His presence. As I sit upon the shores of life, I soak in His presence. I feel Him and His love.

Always loved
Never forgotten
Never forsaken
Never alone
Always His
Always have been
Always will be
 

Soaking in HIS presence,

Andrea

Created With Love

Love comes in all shapes and sizes. Without a doubt, Savannah and Elijah are two of the greatest blessings GOD has placed in my life. My most precious darlings make Nana's heart smile.


"You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous-how well I know it. You watched me in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered." Psalm 139: 13-17 NLT

Blessed to be Nana,

Andrea

"Longing"

"I long, yes, I faint with longing to enter the courts of the Lord. With my whole being, body and soul, I will shout joyfully to the living GOD." Psalm 84:2 NLT

I don't know about any of you, but there are days I long to get away from life's struggles and simply sit at the feet of my Savior! I am longing for another of those days...just me and GOD. I need to soak in HIS presence in the quiet and peacefulness of HIS creation. Though life is crazy, I know HE will be faithful to supply a place and meet this need. HE never abandons me. HE always gives me just what I need!

By HIS mercy and in the very grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Survived by Love and Grace

Sunday morning, August 22nd, 2010, GOD spoke loudly to me:

~The beauty of GOD's presence sweeps over me as I watch the waves tumble to the shore. I am enveloped in HIS presence. The white caps remind me of HIS cleansing power. He will "not" allow me to be overtaken or overpowered by life's storms.

~Hold your head high! Know to whom you belong!

~Tremble not in fear! I have set you apart, made you different. I will not allow you to be killed, emotionally, physically, or spiritually.

~HE promised "survival!"

~I survived being a Bowling!

~I made it to the other side.....

~I am stronger and wiser!

~I am very simply, me!

~I like the person God created me to be. I like me!

~I am a "survivor!"


"Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Isaiah 43:1b-3a NLT

Survived by love and grace,

Andrea Bowling Perdue

God Bless Mark and Eleana

Tomorrow, I will begin a journey to South Carolina arm in arm with my faithful friend and husband Doug. Celebration of love will be the theme, as my cousin Mark marries his beautiful fiance Eleana! It is our prayer GOD will bless them in every way.

Life takes many twists and turns. Mark and Eleana's wedding will occur near the beach, yet clearly a mountaintop experience.  As we celebrate their union, GOD's power and strength will be at the forefront of our minds. Evidence of HIS transforming power, abundant mercy, and unending grace will be heard as the waves tumble to the shore line, a short distance away. Beauty abounds in each breath taken by all present. Human frailty, life's difficulties, and disease often cause our attention to deviate from the most essential moments of life. May GOD speak loudly to each person present as we celebrate this union. May this time be a time of healing and restoration for all!

Privileged to share in HIS presence,

Andrea

~Thank you for your prayers as we travel and share in this union. I will limited or NO access to the internet while I am away. GOD BLESS each of you!

Surprised To Be Loved!

Psalm 18:16-19 The Message

16-19 But me he caught—reached all the way
from sky to sea; he pulled me out
Of that ocean of hate, that enemy chaos,
the void in which I was drowning.
They hit me when I was down,
but God stuck by me.
He stood me up on a wide-open field;
I stood there saved—surprised to be loved! 

No words could be truer for me than those written in Psalm 18. God rescued me from the captivity of family strongholds and set me on a course leading to happiness and healing. Each day I wake to the loving touch of my Heavenly Father, "surprised to be loved!" 


By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,


Andrea

Lauren's Love Story

Four Generations:
Lauren's Grandmother with Eli, Lauren, and Lauren's Aunt


Twenty Three years ago, God blessed my husband and his first wife, Roberta with their second daughter. Their journey to parenthood began with difficulty and ended with two beautiful blessings. Lauren, their second blessing was born to young teenage parents. Their love enabled them to trust Doug and Roberta (Lauren's adoptive parents) with her care. At age 14, Lauren's adoptive mother died and Dad continued his journey raising both girls. In 2005, Doug and I (Andrea) married, blending families. Our greatest blessing came instantly as our children grew close with hearts full of love for one another.

I, as step-mom gave birth to Lauren as a teenager. I carefully and sometimes painfully tried to be step-mom, yet not "mom." Her Dad and I share the desire for her adoptive mother, who raised her from birth to 14 to be present in spirit. Roberta's love brought Lauren home from the hospital and raised her under the divine guidance of her Heavenly Father. Daily, I seek to keep those values at the forefront with each of our children. On July 27th, I was privileged to stand in her mother's place as she gave birth to our beautiful grandson, Eli. Lauren will never be able to give me a greater gift.

On Monday, Doug and I met Lauren's Grandmother (adoptive mother/Roberta's mother) and her Aunt (adoptive mother's sister) and led them to Lauren's home to meet Eli. Once again, Doug and I were blessed to watch as GOD poured HIMSELF out through each of them. GOD's love is evident in each of their eyes and beautiful smiles in the photo above.

Lauren is loved by many! Biology does not make a family, God's love does! For those of you struggling with blended families or adopted children, where God's love abounds a beautiful end is in sight. Look to His light and He will lead you through the difficult and painful moments filling you with His peace that passes all understanding.

Blessed to be step-mom,

Andrea

A New Prayer Button For Amden

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Update On Amden

As you can see, my gorgeous great-nephew Amden is riding in style! He is growing into a handsome little man, defying all odds and shocking his doctors. He is on target with his peers in ever area accept strength in his neck muscles. He is attempting to crawl and explore the world.

My family and I thank each of you for your prayers. Clearly, GOD is listening and continues to answer daily. We can not express our gratitude adequately  for your love, prayers, encouragement, and support. The outpouring of love on Amden's behalf  has been beyond belief or comprehension.

We are truly blessed and we count it as a blessing, the greatest blessing to have Amden as "our" baby! He is a precious gift shared with each of us by our Heavenly Father.

By HIS mercy and in the grip of HIS grace,

Andrea

Getting Prepared

Savannah is preparing for a boat ride with Papa. Required apparel is her life vest and she proudly wears it while waiting for Papa to finish getting the boat ready.

Many times we face life without the required apparel. Our days begin with speed and lack of vision. When things do not go well, we wonder why? Today, lets take a lesson from our sweet "Savannah Faith." Let us slow down and prepare our heart, body, and mind for each day. Let us begin with prayer and time with our Heavenly Father! Wear GODS apparel with a heart of victory and preparedness. Begin each day ready for all HE has for you and enjoy the ride.


Learning to live,

Andrea

Dancing Through This Life

Dancing through the this life with my best friend. I am truly blessed to have been given the chance to celebrate life with someone who loves me, flaws and all!

Dancing,
Andrea