I recently taught - no, I tried to lead - a ladies class on Wednesday evenings. I must say that I received far more than I could possibly share with the gals. "A Treasured Friend" was the topic for the class and, although it may sound shallow, much insight was revealed.

I began the lessons with the statement that I had moved here with the idea that I would not work on developing close friends because I had all the friends I needed! Little did I know that God had other plans in mind. He has placed special people in my life these past three years and I would be remiss if I ignored his direction. We all need someone who is eager to hear about our past, our dreams, and just stuff in our daily life. We need someone to look to for support and who loves us in spite of our faults. God has placed such people in my life and I pray you share the same blessings.

l pray we never forget that Jesus, our one True Friend, calls us into friendship with him and into friendship with one another. And he helps us to become true friends as well. Through Jesus we slowly develop true and deep friendships that reflect his character.

The Fall season is an awesome time to enjoy nature, family and friends. I have enjoyed so many fun-filled activities the past few months and just have to share them with you.

It is great being in a collegate town and being part of the energy and excitement that is generated by the students and fans. I have had the awesome experience of attending some of the OU football games and I love being in the middle of that sea of faces, with everyone screaming at the top of their lungs. We went to our first OU homecoming parade and game and had a great time. It is just FUN being at the games! (Have I lost my mind completely)

October was "filled" with trips to the pumpkin patch and corm maze, the Storybook Forest at Arcakia Lake, the Fall Festival at church, numerous school parties and Trick-or-treating! The Pratt Family loves all holidays and Halloween is no exception. In the photo you will see that we had the Fall Festival totally under control! The jelly fish (Kendra) protected the mermaid and Robin Hood (Tamara) and Tinkerbell (Kathryn) managed to keep the "kids" safe. The biker (Phil) and the mummy (Tyler) were watched over by their guardian angel (Odra). Although, I am not sure who should have been watching over the angel. Times like this are what memories are made of.

I have been reading others sites and I must say that they all make me double over from laughing so hard. What a great way to live - being able to see humor in everyday happenings. I can tell you that it will help you stay young longer - or at least "think young" longer.

Speaking of being young! I must share a sweet experience with my three year old granddaughter. We had a girls date last Sunday evening and saw Disney On Ice, the Dancing Princesses. Needless to say, if you have been spared from a trip to the Okla Fair Grounds I truly admire you. However, you are not only missing the experience of trying to park with a thousand other cars, or the frantic mob pushing each other for a place in line for a "huge" cinnamon roll, you are missing a glimpse of the fantasy world through the eyes of a three year old! Oh if we could all see life as they do.

Each Disney character skated their way into the hearts of all the little girls and many adults. As each set of character would skate off the ice my little granddaughter, who sat on my lap the entire time in a trance, would look up at me and with huge eyes would say, "OMa, I love (whoever the male lead was)". The next set of skaters would begin their portion and she would fall in love all over again! I don't think I have ever seen her as mesmerized and it was precious.

Watching her made wrestling with the stroller, battling the lines and buying grossly over priced wands all worth while. I encourage you to take the opportunity and share a fantasy with your kids. Oh, by the way, thanks for all the moments of laughter! (birds attacks, mailbox madness, ipod mixing, etc.)

I can't stand it any longer! I must talk about the three joys of my life! As you can probably guess, I am about to "expound" on the joys of grandparenthood! I want you to meet my munchkins. At the far left is Tyler (6), in the middle is Taryn (3) and at the near right is Kathryn (2).

The first of August hosted the first ever Camp OMa and I must say, "O my". We built a large tent in the den and began camp with a night of flashlights and glow-in-the-dark stars. I must tell you that this is the first time all three munchkins have spent the night together and it was a hoot! I really can't wait for the day when spooky stories begin. Anyway, the night went quite well considering all circumstances.

The next day began early with everyone helping make waffle sticks. We then made a craft or two, did a little swimming and took a trip to the Natural History Museum. We finished the day with a trip to McDonalds and ice cream. Everyone was tired so the flashlights didn't create as many monsters as they had the previous night.

Our final day was spent lounging around, watching movies and grilling hotdogs outside. Of course, we had to play in the water one more time. All in all it was a lot of fun and I hope special memories were made that will last for years to come. I am, however, very glad it was just two nights. I guess that's how grandmas are -huh-.

My prayer is that you are building similar memories with your kids and grandkids. Our memories help us when we least expect it. So try a little harder to do something or go somewhere that will build a lasting memory for you and your family. Blessings

As I reflect on this past week I am reminded that everything I/we have is a gift - even my very life. There is a raging battle between my God and all the evil in the world, including all the sin of the entire human race. But God will bring good out of it all. He is in control and I must trust Him with all my being.

As with any journey, we often run into bumpy areas. This past week has been one of those bumpy times. Our church family lost a beautiful young woman, Melinda Evans. Although only 32 years of age, she was wise beyond her years. We, as a family are mourning our loss and learning from her example. Melinda loved life, God, her children, her husband, her family and her friends. She has passed the gauntlet to each of us. We must now live as she lived, dedicated to God, and one another.


Again, I seek your prayers. I am so thankful to know many are praying for Melinda's family and for this church family. What a blessing we have in sharing our grief.

As an introduction, I want you all to know I am both excited and apprehensive about beginning this blog. I am apprehensive because I still have not mastered the e.mail concept so why on earth do I think I can keep this blog site current? I am the worst at returning e.mails and I usually pick up the phone to communicate with someone rather than sending a quick e.mail. When I do send an e.mail it is very short and sweet because I just don't want to take the time to write a detailed communication.


I am excited about beginning this blog site because I want to share with you the incredible work God is doing in my life and at Alameda Church of Christ. I work as the Children's Minister and my "work", if you want to call it that, is the most wonderful experience anyone on this earth could be a part of and I want to share my joy with everyone. A day does not go by that I am not blessed beyond more than I deserve. As we journey together please pray for this ministry and for me.