Before I explain what is going on with the book, I want to tell you about the ministry. I got together today wth Jan, Shirley and Anne and we prayed over some decisions that need to be made. So much has happened so fast, we are trying to discern what to say yes to and what to say no to. This is going to be awesome and difficult at the same time. I truly believe the last year was a test to prepare me for what is happening. I think it is time to let a few people take over in some areas so that I can explore what God is doing in other areas. It's all so exciting but a little scary. I have been doing some of these things for so many years it's hard to let go. Still, I have learned that letting go voluntarily is better than God having to strip it away! Please be in prayer for all of us as we sort out who is called to do what. For the first time, I actually have enough people to have that luxury!

This Sunday, I am so blessed to do 4 services in Gatesville! Linda even asked if I could go back to death row but I cant do it wih the schedule the way it is already. Still, I believe that was God's way of letting me know I would see those girls again! Yeah! Janice will be going with me. She is the lady that works for Bill Glass so I am really excited about that too. I get to get a badge for the Murray unit this time - that means I can visit the girls anytime I am in the area! YEAH GOD!!! What an honor!

Now, to the writing project. I started writing yesterday. Once I started writing I realized this really is a whole other book! I am blown away by all God has taught me over the past year. I finally broke out my journals so I could look at it one step at a time and one day at a time. Rather than try to articulate a years worth of life lessons all at once, I see I need to really take my time and go through this slowly. The lessons learned are ones I can't afford to forget.  I wrote the first entry yesterday and I am really excited. I am once again in awe of how God takes horrible circumstances and uses it so perfectly for His glory.

Since there is so much there, I have decided to send the pages to people as they request rather than post every word here. I have to say it was difficult revisiting such a rough time. Reading those words of desperation and confusion were sad. At the same time, I so rejoice at where He has brought me. I would not be who I am today if I had not been through that. God you are so good, Oh how we love you!

Sunday night, we went to the little hospitality house in Gatesville before going to the prison. There is a precious woman that volunteers her time there and she has prayed with me and Ms Finney before. Anyway, when she saw me, she said the most awesome thing that really struck me. She was commenting on how pretty my eyes are and then she looked at me and said "there is something very deep there"  I knew what she was saying because God has been showing me that I am stronger now after this past year. My faith is deeper and my relationship with God is much deeper! I praise God it shows in my eyes! It makes the pain so worth it.

So, as I continue pouring over hundreds of scriptures and many painful journal entries, I know these things:  His grace was sufficient for me in my worst hours and always will be. He will always rescue me, Nothing can seperate me from His love. He is the healer of broken hearts, He is trustworthy and He is the only one one who can set us free. Then there is my favorite and most recent lesson, I can turn the ashes and pain of my life into beauty - that is another one of His specialties!!!

I wish I had weeks to sit and just write it all out - OH! God just remeinded me of the surgery and how I did have weeks to write and I didnt!!!! OUCH! That was a good one God! Still, I am excited and can't wait to get back to that peaceful place with Him where he speaks so clearly and so beautifully!

I encourage you to make the time to do the same - He is so worth clearing your schedule for!