From Taverns to Tabernacle

Since Ella was six years old, she has performed in family-friendly taverns/venues in and around Texas/Louisiana/Oklahoma. At ten years old, she played on stage with Bobby Whitton at the Cotton Country Club in Granger, TX.  

The very moment we walked out of the club that night, she said, “wow, that is the best bar I’ve ever played in.” 😂

We’re happy to announce a diversion from “tavern to tabernacle” (Rick Weiss).  Today, she performed with the band at Christ Lutheran Church in Brenham.  It was a joyful morning, and the congregation and band were welcoming/complimentary. She even left with a potential gig opportunity and offers to play with the church band again.   I call that the Lord’s work! 

Ironically, after all those years of playing in taverns, she had her first taste of real wine at 14 years old IN CHURCH.  😜 #bloodofjesus

Thank you Ms. Vicki for inviting her to be a part of your team this morning.  Until next time, she will continue sharing her musical journey with all God’s people—no matter the venue. 

#AmazingGrace

#UnfailingLove

#Ashokan’sFarewell https://youtu.be/yWkKF8pP2Ww?si=kSywTdSNrR8IYfAi

#AwesomeGod https://youtu.be/CNbGpdsdiNo?si=JPMluYvf16KOIRHo

My Beautiful Wildflower

In a field of Texas bluebonnets, I will always pick YOU!

You are my sunshine!

We earned our wings...

...chicken wings--that is.  Ella and I are officially country girls! 

Due to the graphic images in this post, viewer digression is advised;)

Today's field trip was at http://www.plumfabulousfoods.com in Plum, TX.  One of our homeschool moms lives with her family on this wonderful organic small working farm.  

Today three of us homeschool moms--along with kids of all ages--rolled up our sleeves and humanely prepared 47 chickens from farm to table/freezer.  

I'm a rookie at this (and like it that way); the other two moms are way more seasoned.  In my mind, I was there to observe, Ella was there to participate.  Well, that ended up not being the case.  I have to tell you...when we first arrived upon the bloody scene, every inch of my being wanted to vomit.  Those who know me well know that I'm not really a big meat eater, and I never touch raw meat without gloves.  

As I stood there and fought back the urge to make my getaway, I couldn't help but notice these awesome moms/kids taking care of business (with their bare hands😳🙈) and enjoying their time together.  

Ummm...not wanting to go home feeling completely inadequate, I convinced myself to do the right thing and get my hands entire body dirty, as well.  

So...I...did, and I survived.  AND, my family is having the freshest chicken dinner and salad (compliments of Plum Fabulous farm). AND, I will never look at chicken the same way ever again.  AND, I may never eat it again either. 

Let me be honest, I much preferred picking the lettuce from their beautiful garden over bird duty, but I've been invited back...and next time I won't be such a   

chicken!

I obviously couldn't document the entire process from start to finish because I HAD BLOOD AND CHICKEN PARTS ON MY HANDS😝😝😝.

Can't Hardly Playboys

Fun night of live country music (by the Can't Hardly Playboys), dancing, and history at the Cotton Country Club in Granger, Texas.  

Special thanks to our favorite guitarist, Bobby Whitton, for allowing Ella to play on stage with such talented musicians.  What a thrill it was for her to experience--and us to watch.  I actually thought we were headed to a jam session with Bobby and a few others; I didn't realize we were going to a live performance. #momfailornot

She was caught off guard when the club owner handed her his five-string electric fiddle to play--since her four string wasn't mic'd. It took her a few seconds to adjust...and off she went.  Nothing like being on stage, staring out at a crowd, the band playing the intro to your song--and you have an extra string;).  I would have had a video to share, but some older gentleman (dance partner in tow) scooted up to me, handed me his phone and said, "is that your daughter?  That's my favorite song...mind recording for me? So, he has the video;).  

To boot, she's been studying WWII and met an inspiring 94 y/o vet who danced the night away and displayed more energy than all of us combined.  


When we walked out of the club to leave, our 10 y/o said, "wow, that was the best bar I've ever been in." Where is my hand over face emoji when I need it???? 

Four Seasons Bison Ranch

Another fun trip to the country...

 :  :  :  :  :  Bully Brawl :  :  :  :  :  

  :  :  :  :  :  Water Bowl turned Cooling Tub :  :  :  :  :  

Dabbed a bit of essential oil on his nose and back to pink it turned.  Love my oils!

  :  :  :  :  :  Processing  :  :  :  :  :  

Thanks "Aunt" Jan and "Uncle" Hank...always picture perfect!

Nature Nurtures

"Aunt" Jan and Danny

Loving hands

Thanks Jan and Hank for another fun-filled weekend.  We love you guys!