Tom & Jan Bougher's Blog

38 Years Ago - August 4, 1972

2010-08-03T13:54:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow marks the day that we said I do and I would do it all over again. Only this time with more kids – maybe 6 or 7? 38 years with the woman that I always dreamed of. (No Pastor Lindell she doesn’t look 35 anymore, but she is more beautiful than ever.)

In August of 1970 we met at CBC on the first day of school. Sammy Lipari and I busted into the practice room where she was playing the piano. I gave Sammy the high sign and he took off! That would be 40 years ago – we were just 12 … (Plus?) From the first time I saw her, I was hooked.

I can sing the Firefall song and it fits!
Jan Lowery Bougher - You are the woman that I’ve always dreamed of, I knew it from the start;
I saw your face and that’s the last I’ve seen of my heart!

Todd and Nash -First Glimpse

2010-08-02T11:54:00.008-05:00

Huntsville, Alabama - July 2, 2010

Here is a picture taken from the observation window, right after Nash was born. There are 15 of us gawking through a small 3 X 4 window trying to get a peak at this little guy. Family from both sides were there. We had all traveled from Louisiana and Missouri to be there for this special occasion. Finally Todd brought him over to the window so we could see him. BTW: He hasn't slept much since.

Nash Bougher is here!

2010-08-02T11:45:00.003-05:00

This is Jennifer holding Nash born July 2, 2010. We are so happy for Todd and Jenn. It's great to be a grandparents. We are grandparents to Lyssie - 13 and Nash - 0. Already sent him a Bass Pro hat and he has a baseball and glove ready. Now to get him outfitted in a Hawkeye jersey and hat! Go Hawks!

Alyssa Bougher Walls Inducted in the NHS!

2010-05-19T12:50:00.004-05:00

Lyssie is now a part of the National Honor Society!
Woo Hoo! They only pick students with at least a 3.7 grade average
and who are involved with volunteering in their community.
Lyssie is almost 13, runs the 100 and throws the shot put.
And her grandfather is her only boyfriend.
Don't believe everything you read.

Todd's Tomb

2010-03-31T08:05:00.003-05:00

I know it is really Jesus Tomb. He only borrowed it for a couple of days. It was still in good shape after he used it.

This is our son Todd. He creates sets for churches. This is one tomb of three that he made for a church with 3 locations. If you are interested in seeing more of his work, go to his site todd-design.blogspot.com BTW: Todd and Jenn are due in July. Our new grandson is getting anxious to arrive.

Mom Charlotte is 49 Today ... well sort of

2010-02-03T09:40:00.002-06:00

Yes, this picture is from Christmas. But today is her birthday. She is still smiling and telling us stories about the good old days. She has been an inspiration to so many people, from students to parishioners - they all have a story of blessing that she initiated. If you have the opportunity give her a call or send her a note. Happy birthday Mom Charlotte!

My Three Girls!

2010-02-02T13:54:00.003-06:00

What a crew! Pray for me - I'm out numbered, even the dog is a girl. We've had a wonderful winter, lots of snow and Lyssie has been sledding down the hill near our house. Ellie, Lyssie's poodle has enjoyed her romps in the snow too. She has learned to shake hands, roll over and is in the process of learning to pray. She will do anything for a treat. I'm talking about Ellie the poodle of course!

Shhhh! We're hunting wabbits!

2010-02-02T13:46:00.006-06:00

Not really. We were on a bird hunt. Pheasants, chukkars and quail. You will note that we shot them all. Great place in Branson - Down Home Huntin" check it out for your next outing.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Down-Home-Huntin-Upland-Game-Bird-Hunting-Preserve/116773132425

From left to right Missionary Steve Benintendi, BGMC David Boyd and Assistant General Superintendant Alton Garrison. Our best shooters had to be Curt Rosean and Glen Dorsey. We practiced first on clay pigeons. Then out to the field with some great hunting dogs. And best of all no one got Chaneyed! Others on the hunt: Ron Kelley aka Dead eye,

Lyssie is Rotary Student of the Month!

2010-02-02T13:33:00.006-06:00

This is the sign out in front of her school announcing the Rotary student for the month. Only 9 kids can recieve this award each year. Pretty good for a new comer to receive this award in her first year at the school.

What an honor. Lyssie, our 12 year old grand daughter was chosen out of 800 students to be the Rotary Student of the month. Nixa Junior High teachers choose the students for their character and ability to get along with others along with their scholastic records. Lyssie is an "A" student and she takes after her grandfather. What a great kid! And I know, you are all so glad that she looks like her mom and grandmother! After a great speech from her Vice Principal, Mr McGeHee, she was awarded the plaque and a $25.00 credit card. You know that went over BIG!

FYI: I was once on the Dean's list at CBC. .... I'm not saying what list, but I was on it.

Christmas is almost here!

2009-12-22T09:46:00.003-06:00

Christmas has always been an exciting event at the Boughers. The anticipation is part of the fun. We eat ,we sing, we laugh, we remember, we eat, we laugh and .... we eat some more, we try to remember. We are planning on Big Easy turkey and over stuffed stockings and lots of presents. BTW: Where else do they consider it real fun to eat candy out of your socks?

This year Dad and Mom Lowery are with us. Jan drove to Marked Tree, Arkansas and picked them up from Leisa. (Leisa drove half way.) They are doing pretty well. Dad is able to get around better than Mom Charlotte, but is still having trouble with his sight. He enjoys any outings that we do. I took him to Grizzle Tools and Bass pro - I think he could look at stuff all day. Mom enjoys the heat at home and TV. We were all rooting for the Voices of Lee.

We had a party the other day and invited friends from our past - Jim & Barb Risner, Jim was my room mate at CBC; Steve & Mindy Benintendi, Steve is one of Karen Slagles's brothers, they are missionaries; Dan & Trish Crace, Dan was our Real Estate Agent, but he is also an old Music pastor buddy from Music California, and our new neighbors Doug and Tracy. We had lots of fun telling old stories and ringing the little Christmas bells. Lot of laughs! Mom & Dad made it through the night adding their own stories of church funnies in the past.

Update: much to my dismay, the weather has not been kind in Missouri. We've had some very cold and windy days. I'm always extra thankful for sunshine and any rise in the temperature that comes my way. After all these years God has never seen fit to send us to the equator - that sounds like such a nice place to live, shorts and t-shirts year round!

Lyssie and Tiff are with us in Missouri too. Todd and Jen will be in Baton Rouge with her family - Jen is due sometime in July! (Jan thinks its a Boy.)We are looking forward to a great Christmas and lots of surprises.

FYI: We just found out the Lyssie has been chosen by her peers as the Rotary student for the month of January 2010 and at the same time the Character Student of the month by her teachers. Nixa Junior High will never be the same. What a Great kid!

Merry Christmas to all and to all a Blessed 2010!
From all the Missouri Boogies

Star Date 2009 - Thanksgiving in Des Moines

2009-12-03T09:36:00.003-06:00

Tom’s log:
For the first time ever, we spent Thanksgiving in Des Moines with my side of our family. 35 Boughers in the same party room – we were at least 23 Boughers over the Limit. West Des Moines has restrictions on “Too much laughter in one room”. West Des Moines Officer Bill Jess was there to make sure we didn’t exceed 90 decibels. I’m sure that the folks who live near the party room had a tough time believing that no one had added any extra oomph to our punch! (FYI: Boughers don’t need any chemicals to enhance our craziness.)

Monday:
Todd and Jen were able to come up from Huntsville to Nixa.

Tuesday: We all drove up together in their Toyota SUV. Jan, me, Tiff, Lyssie, Jen & Todd along with Sophie the black poodle and Ellie the blond poodle were all piled in the same car for a 6 hour COLD journey.
Tuesday evening: We arrived in West DSM and unloaded our stuff, some staying at HK and Rachel’s and others at Aunt Barbs.
Supper: We all ate at Jason’s Deli - Jason’s now has set a Bougher Limit too.

Wednesday:
Breakfast with Uncle Steve and his Iowa buddies at Dahl’s. They hash over what could have happened if Ferentz would have let Vandenberg pass down the sidelines with 40 seconds left in the Ohio State game and who will Iowa play in the BCS bowl.
Lunch with the whole gang at Urbandale Café - including Kirk’s bunch from Eagle Grove and Wisconsin. Most of us ate fried tenderloin sandwiches, yumm! It’s a great Iowa treat that the US has not caught onto … yet.
Supper at HK and Rachel’s – Pizza with 35 Boughers and the Gamedingers. The Gamedingers are Rachel’s folks from Wisconsin. Pray for them, they spent 2 days with an overdose of Boughers.

Thursday:
As you can imagine there was so much going on. Early AM we all start carrying stuff down to the party room to get it set up. The ladies were trying to organize the hams, turkeys and buffet in a party room kitchen, about 10’ X 6’.

Here is a little T-Giving Day window: The food was organized in the kitchen, the football game was on the big screen, jokes were told and played, memories of the past were all around, songs were sung, pictures were shared, cousins played football outside and Uncle Dave slept. He has learned to cope with his in-laws. It’s kind of like Uncle Neal did with Aunt Dar – just sleep your way through the whole thing. Jan has learned to just jump in and roll with it. She played a borrowed keyboard and we sang Christmas carols – she had to play without a sustain peddle, a pianist’s nightmare. That of course happened after we ate too much. (The Klingons never showed.)

Friday:
We returned home to Nixa and tried to find NORMAL once again.

To the Future and Beyond:
Jan is planning a trip to Alabama to pick up her folks for Christmas in Nixa!

Who is in Control?

2009-10-05T14:55:00.002-05:00

There are some things that really bug me … like:

People who have had their turn signal on since July.
I guess we need to increase the "ticker" volume!
People who use the cell phone in the public restroom.
Don't they know they have voice mail? Some things really can wait 5 minutes!
People who put on make up, shave, or text while driving.
I watched as a lady was using the eye lash curler as she drove down the street. Disaster is just around the corner – she could be eye lash bald!
Watch at any 4 way stop, someone will be on the phone not paying attention to who is next.
People who don't know that, in the case of a tie, the person on the right at a 4 way stop goes first.
Who taught these people who to drive? Did Sears really sell drivers licenses?
People who drive the wrong way on parking lots.
Even if there are no arrows, the lanes are marked – slanted away from you, so you know you're headed the wrong way …duh!
People who "back-in" to a "head- in" only parking spot.
See number 4. Yes, I know that is the only way you can park when going against the flow. You are Parking and Exiting dangerously!
People who can't park between the lines.
It should be a requirement for people to buy small cars if they can't park the big ones. Did you know that you can back up and re-align your car? Just a thought!
People who never put back a cart, they leave it in front of your car, or against it.
Where's Gomer when you need him? He'd say "Shame, Shame, Shame." I just call it LAZY!
People who don't turn their phone on vibrate at meetings.
I know YOU are important, but give the guys who are holding the meeting your full attention. That means NO texting too. NO reading of texts or sending texts. See number 10.
People who text.
I know you think it saves time. But it doesn't. Just call me and we'll talk. When I hear your voice, I'll know if you are happy, sad or angry with me. That beats adding exclamation points!
And learn how to SPELL will you?

You can see that most of my frustration is people related. And I didn't even get into the people who think that bathing should happen only once a week or the others that think that deodorant is for special occasions.

(I wonder what it would be like to live on an island?)

I know that life is filled with unknowns and things that come unexpectedly. And it's really up to me to figure out how to deal with them. I can spend all of my travel time talking to these discourteous, unthinking, idiots who are driving to work at the same time as me, or I can spend the time listening to an Andrae Crouch CD. I'm sure that my health and attitude is improved with Andrae and then the idiots don't know I'm even on the road with them. The phone company will just have to come up with some Courtesy plans for the rest of those tecky freaks. Whew! I'm glad I got that off of my chest.

I've learned that things really fall into one of three categories:

UMC - Under My Control

These are the things that are Under My Control:

What I eat.
How much I eat.
How much I exercise.
How many showers to take.
What clothing to wear.
When I go to bed.
What entertainment to watch or listen to.
Who I hang out with.

OMC – Outside My Control

These are things are Outside of My Control:

The Weather.
Building/Repairing Roads and Bridges.
Driver Training for the State.
Other people's choices.
Taxes

UHC – Under His Control

These are the things that are Under His Control:

The Weather.
The World.
Birth and Death.
Eternity.
Anything that I have given Him permission to control.

I am learning that when I give Him control over an area, I must release it completely. And when I totally let go, there is a PEACE that moves in and takes over. That's when I think, "Why didn't I do that before?"

His promises are TRUE. I can cast ALL of my cares upon Him. He is the Author and Finisher of my Faith. He will guide my every step and lead me in righteous paths. No weapon formed against me will prosper.

He is for me, so who can be against me? When I give Him control, those things that are Under My Control and Outside My Control are reduced. The categories move. When I release them, they all move Under His Control.

Why would I want to hold on to any of them? I don't know, but I'm still working on a few of the left over discourteous drivers and cell phone users. And He still hasn't given up on me. That's GRACE.

Help me Lord to share it more freely!

This really is our new car.

2009-09-17T13:16:00.003-05:00

At least it's a JEEP and the same color as Daisy's!

I bought it for me. You know something to go
hunting and fishing in. But Jan put her claim
on it. Now there will be no blood stained carpets
or fish perfumes added.

I'm looking for rubber mats and liners to protect
it from the critters.

Quite a thought ... Jan in a JEEP.
Who knows maybe next, she'll mow the lawn?
These boots are made for walking!

Our NEW Car!

2009-09-17T13:05:00.005-05:00

How do you like it? It reminds Jan of our first
'72 Nova ... the exterior color was close.

Bo and Luke were running into some tax problems
and had to sell the General. All I can say is Ya hoo!

Now I just have to figure out how to get Jan into the
car through the windows. Remember those Duke
boys welded the doors shut for racing?

I'm looking for a dog named Flash.

FREE "Live" Webinar September 5th

2009-08-28T11:00:00.001-05:00

I want to invite you to be apart of my "live" half hour webinar on Saturday, September 5th at 1:00 Pm Central Time. I will be sharing information that will benefit you and your volunteers.

You can sign up for this FREE webinar by clicking on http://discipleship.ag.org/Christian_Education/Training_and_Helps/Online_Training/index.cfm?targetBay=0f6af55d-6e99-4155-bcc0-518519e56386&ModID=24&EventDetail=60301b57-e9c2-4180-8a46-f3eb4294e4c7&Process=EventDetail

I have based the webinar on the book "What Every SS Teacher Should Know" by Dr. Elmer Towns. There will be an open discussion time at the end for Q & A.

Subjects Included:
- Retention Rates
- Learning Styles
- Improving your Lectures
- Improving your Discussions

FYI: The session will also be recorded for your use following the event.
TJB

Moving to Nixa

2009-08-17T11:32:00.003-05:00

We have finally found a new home in Nixa, Missouri. God has provided a house that is very close to our floor plan in Madison. Jan is with the inspector now and checking out all of the room sizes. She is picking out paint chips and planning the usual move-in upgrades. The "honey do's" have just begun. Thanks for the prayers, now it's time to find some guys with muscles to help us load in Madison and unload in Nixa.
T&J

Changing Adresses Again.

2009-07-17T09:34:00.003-05:00

Yeah, you heard it right we are moving to Springfield. We still have to sell our home in Madison and pack a few more boxes. I am in a new position at HQ with the Discipleship Ministries Agency. I will be their new Adult Resource Consultant. We plan to be at General Council and hope to see you at the RT Reunion and at the CBC Reunion. So for now we will only be using our cell phones and you will have to send snail mail through 1445 Boonville 65802.

Here are some thoughts I had on "Change"

Change is part of life that is never on the want list. And change continues to jump right in front of you when you least expect it, kind of like an armadillo on a 2 lane Texas highway!

Without change, GROWTH is stopped or at least it slows to a crawl. So adjust, re-adjust, re-configure, re-focus, and re-alize that change is so much better than finding your name in the obituaries!

Yes, it's time to start all over again.

God is still in control and the ride isn't over. I'm asking for a front seat this time and I'm requesting fewer bumps in the road.

I plan to listen much more carefully to the Words God speaks and follow them directly.

Whatever time is left, needs to be used effectively for the Kingdom.
I've built too many sand castles along the way.

It's time to build His way and on His schedule - I guess that's REAL CHANGE .... anyway!

Faith Hero Graduates!

2009-05-25T15:21:00.005-05:00

I have many people who have influenced my life. I am thankful to God for each one.

But today, I want to thank God for allowing me the priviledge of being a tenor in Revivaltime Choir. We were all so blessed to be able to minister while we were in Central Bible College. RT made that happen and Brother Cyril McLellan was always at the helm. He has just passed away - funeral to be held on Tuesday, May 27th at 11:00 AM. Jan & I just arrived in Springfield today (Monday) to be able to attend.

His style of ministry and desire to glorify God came through every arrangement and every broadcast. RT was heard on over 600 ABC radio stations - "Across the Nation and Around the World" (that is just one of the sound bites by narrator Lee Shultz.)

There are over 800 choir members around the world who were influenced by Brother Mac. He made serving God fun while letting us know that quality was never to be sacrificed.

We know that thousands of lives were being changed at that long, long altar. At every concert and every broadcast we were always instructed that eternity was in the balance. And there was always Room at the Cross for another broken heart to be healed, another life to be forgiven.

And while all of that was going on over the radio waves, God was placing part of Brother Mac's heart into each of ours.
Cyril McLellan, always loved always remembered.
T

Change and Hope

2009-04-27T19:31:00.001-05:00

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Change and Hope

Change:Yes, change is before us. In case you haven’t heard we are returning to pastor. After almost 6 years here in Madison/Huntsville Alabama area, God has released us to resume the role of lead pastor.

We have served here in Huntsville, as Small Group Pastors, helping our relatives in their “start up” church of now over 3500! (They will celebrate 10 years as a church, this May.)

God is good and has blessed them over and over. Our special thanks to Rusty & Leisa for allowing us to serve on their staff these last 4 years. If you’ve never heard of The Rock, you can check them out at therockfwc.org.

Back to us. After serving as a Field Rep for GPH for 2 years, that position closed and that closure lead to us becoming the Small Group Pastors here. Last year GPH called and asked me to take on a 75% assignment of a new type of Field Rep working mostly from my home via the phone. After much discussion the ELT has decided to end that trial program due to poor projections of the economy. That led us to our current status and search.

Hope:
We are trusting God to open the right door, quickly. The process is very tedious, but that is the process that is before us. We hope to relocate soon in a city that needs our encouragement. We are praying for a congregation of people who are ready to touch their city for God.

We want to help equip them for service. (My heart is to see God turn spectators into servants.) FYI: Maintaining the status quo is not in my make-up.

Your prayers and ideas are appreciated.
Blessings,
Tom & Jan

Stetzer's Survey of 2000 A/G Pastors Fall 2008

2009-03-09T14:29:00.001-05:00

Ed Stetzer has just completed a survey of 2000 pastors of A/G churches. Here is a sampling of some of their answers:

Growing Churches don’t turn inward
1. Pastors who agree that most of those who attend their church have developed significant relationships with people at their church are in churches with significantly lower levels of growth in average worship attendance

2. While research among Protestants shows that laity’s weakest area of spiritual formation is in building relationships, it appears that AG churches that have achieved it have done so at the expense of any new relationships.

3. Stetzer also shared with us that too many of our pastors have created a co-dependant relationship with their congregation.

My Thoughts on the Survey
1. Stezer’s partner, Tom Rainer has already told us that groups become families somewhere from 6 to 18 months. This answer could be telling us that our church has become a locked up family – EXCLUSIVE. Have we become so focused on those already in attendance that we have forgotten or overlooked the hurting people on the outside?

2. Stetzer’s Survey tells us that we’ve achieved real relationships "at the expense of any new relationships.”

3. We must understand our assignment is not to create people who need us, but to help people grow in the Lord and equip them for service.
Eph. 4:11-13 Note: Service is NOT spelled “serve us”

Okay, it’s the New Year, time for something to say.

2009-01-14T15:37:00.000-06:00

Here goes:
(1) FYI: I am not celebrating with Obama on the 20th.
(2) I will be praying for him and his cabinet – God is able! (God save the president.)
(3) Good News and Good News: I am not planning to sell all of my GM stock – I don’t have any.
(4) I am sad to see President Bush go – I believe that history will show him to be a much wiser, smarter and qualified president than the media portrayed.
(5) I will be praying for conservative, God fearing candidates to show up before the next election and win. We must trust God to prepare our leaders for tomorrow. God call men and women to serve as politicians with integrity and wisdom.
(God help us - save Nancy and Harry!)
(6) I still believe that wars are terrible but must be won – get the media out of there and we’d have the job done in a month. Israel cannot give up Gaza. We must back Israel.
(7) I am rooting for Pop Warner to go to and win the Super Bowl – we could have a Bird Bowl!
(8) I am still working out at the gym daily – FYI: many older people are there, I’ve been sweating with the oldies. It makes me feel younger.
(9) I am believing God for a great move in America this year. Prodigals coming home. Marriages healed. Signs and Wonders confirming His Word.
(10)I am asking God to help churches in America to truly disciple people and get them out of the pews and back out on the streets telling their stories.

NORMAL ... Again?

2008-12-11T12:37:00.002-06:00

Seven weeks have past and I am back to normal, …. whatever that means.

Jan has decided to help me with a special diet of cardboard and Styrofoam. As bad as it tastes, I have lost 15 pounds. Picante sauce with cardboard chips is now a highlight.

The doctors have given me some medication to test – yes, TEST, they are still practicing medicine, and I have become their very reluctant volunteer. Stick me here, stick me there and wait here, now move into the next room and wait some more. They must have tankers full of my blood somewhere in Huntsville.

I am thankful for all of the prayers and don’t have any plans to check out a second case of whatever it was!

I told everyone that I never thought it was the end … I never saw a white light. I can’t even write a book about going to heaven and returning. Pastor Dan Doty after hearing my story asked me then, “if I felt any heat?” No, and thanks a lot Pastor Dan for your vote of confidence!

We are planning a Christmas Celebration with our kids and Jan’s folks. Santa is already to fill the stockings all hung with care. We will plan some more turkey in our new Big Easy. (Another new gadget to help make turkey taste like fried turkey without the oil.)

We will post some pictures and updates as it happens.
A Merry Christmas to You and Yours!
T&J

A Sunday to Forget. (You can add Monday & Tuesday too.)

2008-11-07T10:37:00.002-06:00

While everything seemed normal, I was about to experience a TIA.

Before October 26th, I didn’t even know what a TIA was.

I had helped to park the final set of cars after our third service began.
It was somewhere around High Noon.
(Add sound efx of whistle from The Good, The Bad and the Ugly here.)

I bent over to talk with a child exiting with his family from the Little Praisers, and when I got up everything was spinning.

Then I noticed that my left eye was burning …. Nothing was in focus.
(Add sound efx of Jaws here)

Greg & Chris were there and had me sit down. Greg gave me a bottle of water. Between my slurred speech and my inability to move the bottle to the table, they decided to get me to the hospital.

Jan was called from the auditorium and met us at the car not knowing what was happening.
(Add sound efx of Hawaii 5-0 here)

The next things get really fuzzy, here’s all I remember:
1. I saw someone at the front desk of the hospital and I knew that I was looking up from a wheel chair.
2. I was aware of many people in blue uniforms disrobing me.
FYI:I would have normally put up some resistance to that.
3. I was aware of family members around this make shift bed praying for me.
4. I was in a room with someone on the other side of the curtain and there were 2 TV’s in the room – diagonal from each other.

Here’s the rest of the story: (Play Beautiful Morning from HPC here)
- Around 8:00 PM I was awake and wondering where I was.
- Soon Jan and my family arrived and were amazed that I could talk and sit up in bed.
- By Monday I was ready to go home.
- They kept me until Tuesday and my only after effect was still my double vision.
- Today, Friday the 7th of November I am seeing at least 98% of my normal vision. PTL.
- I am back to normal except that Jan is feeding me Styrofoam and Cardboard.
So, don’t quit praying… I really miss Famous Daves BBQ!
T

It's Time for Christians to Wake Up!

2008-10-23T12:15:00.012-05:00

By now readers of this blog know that religion and politics are not off limits for me.

CAUTION - If it is for you, DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER.

It is time for American Christians to understand the consequences of our choices.

We are about to elect a new President, and either choice will be a CHANGE, you cannot afford to HOPE for the right candidate.

Here are some things that should sharpen our focus and help us to make a wise decision:
(1) Christians should be Pro-Life, ... God is.

(2) Christians should understand that Islam is Anti–America & Anti-Christian.
We know that there is ONLY one way to Heaven, his name is NOT Allah.

(3) Christians should understand that if we were doing our job of taking care of the poor, the widows and the orphans, then there would be no one looking for help from the government.

(4) Christians should understand that associations with Muslims, Terrorists and Black Liberationists are at least a sign of poor judgment and are surely an accurate indicator of the shocking philosophy, biased mind sets and predisposed objectives of the candidate.

DYK: Would-Be contractors with our military are disqualified to do business with the Pentagon when their background checks come up including these kinds of people.

THAT SHOULD MAKE BELLS RING AND SIRENS GO OFF!

(5) Christians should always pray for our leaders, even the ones that are not conservative and ungodly.

Now, take a deep breath. Remember our citizenship is in Heaven.

(6) Christians should be Americans who Pray and Vote. Telling the TRUTH to all who will listen and trusting God for the outcome.

Do I want Obama for my President? NO!
Am I a bigot? NO! Am I against having a black president? NO!
FYI: If J.C. Watts was running for President, he’d have my vote!

CHRISTIANS OF ALL COLORS WAKE UP!
We cannot be swayed through empty promises of FREE health care and tax credits/rebates. Those are all vote getting ploys.

Nothing is FREE; congress has to TAX us first, before they can give it away! And the way someone looks and talks cannot be the only reason he gets our vote. Man looks at the outward appearance, God looks at the heart. Christians - we better get God's perspective!

The next President will be tested by the world, Joe Biden says.

Which candidate is ready NOW to pass that test?

Do you want a President who will Defend this Country as well as Protect your Faith, your Income and your Family?

McCain & Palin are your ONLY choice.

SUCCESS

2008-10-21T11:38:00.010-05:00

Success seems so elusive. No matter what level of success comes, so many are still unsatisfied with their lives. Their only answer is, “I must need MORE.”

Freddy Prince was a young unknown comedian, when he began a TV career staring on “Chico and the Man”. Then his life was filled with new and exciting things. Cars, Money, Women, Fame … it all was his, yet he was found dead, a self inflicted end to a success story.

And everyday we read or hear about new Freddys, who are seen as glamorous people, yet are empty on the inside.

Worldly success has brought them little satisfaction. Mick Jagger’s song looms like a prophecy over their heads. “I can’t get no satisfaction.”

Could the problem be that we don’t have a realistic view of what Success really is?

In a pole, people were asked “What is Success?”
Here are some of their answers:
Owning a home.
Having a steady income.
Being able to afford insurance.
Having a job.
Making it through another season.
Having a good harvest.
Having a roof over our heads.
Being able to feed my family.
Owning a Cadillac, BMW, Porsche, Lamborghini.
Being able to breath on my own.
Being able to protect my family.
Having a family.
Being able to walk.
Being free from cancer.
Being free of debt.
Retiring with money in the bank.
Having Grandchildren who love me.
Being in charge of the company.
Being like _____________ . (Rich and Famous People)
Being the boss.

The list proves my point. And you begin to understand that Success is not the same for everyone, … or is it? We must stop and re-examine the list. For many of these people their list has become a dead end. That place of success is just not attainable, it was meant for someone else.

In life, there are things that you can not change:
- Where I was born.
- What family I was born into.

But in America, thank God! … you don’t have to live where you were born. And you don’t have to let your family’s past failures, or your past failures dictate your future.

You have the right to develop your abilities and overcome your disabilities.

Here is the good news:
The only person who is holding you back in life is YOU!
- Who says “YOU can’t go back to school?”
- Who says “YOU aren’t smart enough for that job?”
- Who says “YOU are too old to change?”
- Who says “YOU will never get out of that situation?”

Have you ever heard these words?
- I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me? (Phi. 4:13)
- My God will supply all of your needs according to His riches?
(Phi. 4:19)
- I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not harm you,
plans to give you a hope and a future? (Jeremiah 29:11)

These are words from God. He says “YES YOU CAN!”
(And God is no politician - He keeps his promises.)

Here are the keys to your Success:
The Decision to change must start with YOU.

John Maxwell shares that “Doing the same thing over and over and expecting change is the definition of insanity.”

Stop doing the old things, start doing the new things!
“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old had gone, the new has come.” (II Cor. 5:17)

If what you’ve been doing isn’t working, why keep doing it that way?
“If the horse is dead, dismount!” Dr. Mark Rutland

Look to your source of Strength - Your help comes from God, He is your provider.
- Don’t expect your parents to resource your life.
- Don’t expect your family to resource your life.
- Don’t expect the government to resource your life.
- Don’t expect your company to resource your life.
- Don’t try to make it on your own.

Trust God.
One of the wisest and richest men in the world gave these instructions to his son: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3: 5 & 6)

Speak the Word – Get It into your heart.
There is so much bad news. You must turn off the input of worry and woe and replace the bad news with good news.

When Joshua was just a young man, he had to take over an assignment that was unthinkable - replace Moses!

Replacing Moses, meant leading 4 million people into the promised land, no maps, no supplies, no weapons, no water! He would be the commander-in-chief over this rag tag nation of Israel.

Here is the advice God gave him –
Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. HAVE I NOT COMMANDED YOU? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:8 & 9)

More advise from the father of the wise man: (Solomon)
“My heart and my flesh may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:26)

Follow his Steps.
Here are more promises to guide you:
“If the Lord delights in a man’s way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.” (Psalm 37:232 & 24)

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” (Psalm 119:105)

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.” (Psalm 32:8)

I wonder what God would say to the question asked those people in the survey?

What is Success to God?
- Caring for others?
- Sharing the Good News of the ONLY WAY to Heaven?
- Offering encouraging words?
- Living an exemplary life?
- Delivering hope?
- Selfless living?

Yes! To God, a life well spent is one that is lived for others. In fact Jesus says, “seek first his kingdom and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matt. 6:33)

When I take my last breath here on earth, I want to hear those words. “Well done faithful servant!”

How about YOU?
FYI: Success starts at the foot of the cross.

STANDARDS

2008-10-02T14:04:00.001-05:00

First, let me inform you that I was brought up in church and believe that it was a tremendous benefit - it gave me an eternal outlook on life.

I have not been brain washed – however I have had my sins washed in the blood.

I was introduced at an early age to my heavenly Father and understood that I needed to ask Jesus – His son into my heart. There was and still is no other way for man to be saved.

I am amazed at how far people in America have gone to try and discredit the ONLY Way to get to Heaven. The “Do Your Own thing” generation has now grown up and raised children who are testing everything that was once considered a standard. Every authority is being questioned and rebelled against.

Note these words – “People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.” Paul wrote these words to Timothy to describe the last days. (II Timothy 3:1-5)

Selfishness rules our world.

Standards must once again be raised up. The Standard of the Cross will change our world.

Darkness has prevailed. But when we lift up Christ, He promises to draw all men to him.

Political correctness can no longer stand in the way of eternal truth. Jesus is still the ONLY answer. That is the Good News.

The narrow way is still open. There is still room at the cross for YOU.

STORMS

2008-09-18T16:47:00.007-05:00

We have had way too many hurricanes this year. For a while, we saw one coming right after another, and we had to wait for Meteorologists to give us the probable location of landfall.

What did people do before we had TV and computers to warn us of the potential danger?

We continue to pray for our friends in Baton Rouge and Houston.
(FYI: We survived Hurricane Frederick – Mobile 1979 and soon after moved away.)

Along with our hurricane affected friends, we pray for others who are going through storms:
-Sons and Daughters who make unwise decisions, and tear your heart out.
- Friends who are struggling with unemployment, layoffs, and job changes.
- Family members facing tough decisions.
-Medical problems that doctors have no answer for.
-Sons and Daughters away from home, keeping freedom strong.
-Folks who have put their life savings in the stock market.
-Disasters, Disunity, Disease, Divorce and Death.

When storms come …
songs of our past seem to rise up and remind us of the truth.

“On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.” P.18 Melodies of Praise
“The Lord’s our rock in Him we hide, a shelter in the time of storm.” P.24 MOP
“The tempest my sweep o’er the wild stormy deep; In Jesus I’m safe evermore.” P.28 MOP
“Through it all, I’ve learned to trust in Jesus” Andrea Crouch

Learning to trust God and be at peace is not easy ... especially right in the middle of a storm– that’s why we need each other.

We need to remind each other that our citizenship is not affected by elections, our source is not Wall Street, He is "Jehovah Jireh" and “He has never failed us yet.”

"There is coming a day, when no heart ache shall come, no more clouds in the sky and no more tears to dim the eye."

Be encouraged today, you are not forgotten and God knows where you are. Mom & Dad, your Prodigals are coming home. Your tears are only for a night, … JOY comes in the morning.

Trust Him in the midst of the storm – He is there with you.
Just keep Singing!
T&J

36 and Counting!

2008-08-05T15:09:00.000-05:00

2008-08-04T14:33:00.003-05:00

36 years ago today.
Yes, it was hot that day and sticky. What do you expect from Alabama in August?
I know that many of you still wonder how it happened.
(Marrying UP is Not Always Easy. – A new book I’m writing.)

In the Beginning
It all started at CBC in August of 1970. We met in a music room, tried out for RT together, went to Convocation at Central A/G together and then stayed apart for 8 long months. (Her choice - not mine.) We had a total of 4 dates in that first weekend of school.

I needed some Supernatural Intervention.
It seems God did not speak very clearly to Jan in those first few months at CBC. It took a few 7:30 AM classes and a public speaking class with Sister Reddin, to open her mind. At that class, she shared a speech on her perfect husband. Later, we found out that Sister Reddin was thinking about me during Jan’s speech. Now that’s a confirmation. But she didn’t tell Jan until much later. Thanks a lot Sister Reddin!

The RT Banquet
It was springtime in Springfield and I thought I would give it one more try. I invited Jan to be my date at the RT Banquet. It was one of those dress-up occasions. Hey, if a tux helps …I was willing. She was nudged by her room mate to go with me. Thanks again, Nancy! And we were engaged 8 months later. Then we married on August 4th, 1972.
(If you need more details, check back for earlier posts.) BTW: My Supernatural help came from Bud Larson - Who knew what a marimba could do? Forget Kenny G - get Larson's 8 Track Tape!

What Time Teaches:
If we had only had some idea of what the future held – we would have been better prepared. We could teach a graduate course in MOVING. But know this - God has always been FAITHFUL! I’m not sure what people do, that try to make it through life without God. He has been our Gorrila Glue, our Triple Antibiotic Ointment and our Xanax . How does anyone face this life without knowing God is in control? (Somebody play "Through It All".)

Looking back over those 36 years, we have faced many uphill climbs, but we’ve always been climbing together and God has led every step of the way.
FYI: He was in Puyallup and even in Covina!

Don’t SPEND Time … USE it!
The one thing that time has taught us, is to use every minute, make every moment count for eternity.

Jan is Still the One
If my heart ever stops, no need for CPR or electric shock, just bring Jan into the room. It worked in August of 1970 and it still works today ….she truly is…Still the One!

The Secret to Marrying UP
Okay, it’s time to reveal the secret you’ve all been waiting for:
Here it is ….
Come close, closer …(Jan does not have 20-20 vision.)

Snap, Crackle, Pop & Sisst, Sisst, Sisst!

2008-07-09T16:12:00.002-05:00

The 4th of July was quite a celebration here in Huntsville, Alabama.

We have a new mall called Bridge Street that opened and planned a really superb fireworks display.

Jan’s folks were staying with us, so at around 8:30 PM we escorted them to an office building just within site of the mall.

We helped them out of the car and up on top of a birm that was newly landscaped and placed our tarp down on the grass and then the lawn chairs were unfolded and set up on the lawn.

It was supposed to start at 8:45 PM, but where were the fireworks? We waited and wondered, “Are we at the right place?” “Did they cancel the event?”

By 9 PM other people had joined us and the parking lot was full of gawkers waiting for a FREE show.

Finally at around 9:10 PM it started and everyone was so excited and enjoyed every minute of the sparkles and pops. We all ooo-ed and awwed, like all good Boogies do.

We were all just holding our breath and waiting for the Grand Finale. You know, that’s when the sky is filled with lights and booms.

Well, just as our Grand finale started, we heard a Sisst, Sisst, Sisst, just off to our left. Then there was a blood curdling scream and everyone started to run.

Can you imagine trying to get two, wet 82 year olds to run down a hill and back into the car?

Oh, the Sisst, Sisst, Sisst was the automatic water sprinkling system put in by the office. We were like Methodists at a picnic. And everyone was watching us run and they missed the Grand Finale!

Oh well, I guess either way, they got a show!
T&J

Husband Repellent

2008-07-02T10:11:00.000-05:00

This stuff should have a warning label!

FYI: Jan's folks are staying with us this week
and Jan is working to make sure everything
is just right.

After a long day, she decided to put some of this
Biofreeze Gel on her neck and shoulders.
(She came to bed, after I was already half asleep.)

I reached over and gave her a short neck massage,
not knowing that this Nuclear paste was waiting
for a victim.

Everything was just fine until later that night, I
had an eye that was in need of a rub. It came on me
with a delay like Chinese mustard. At first it was cool
...then I thought dozens of little jalapenos had jumped
into my eye. Yeah, it was fun, if you like fire ants at
your picnic.
Who needs mace? After the robber steals your purse,
just ask him to rub your neck!

So let this be a warning to all Husbands:
BEWARE OF BIOFREEZE

Julie & Anna at Todd & Jennifer's wedding

2008-06-20T21:06:00.003-05:00

We were so glad Julie (our friend for 20

years) got to come from Kingwood, Texas

with her family. Anna, my niece "loves"

Julie, can you tell? Julie is 23 years old and is

a speaker and a singer.

Check out her website: http://www.littleandblind.com/

Huntsville Friends at the Rehearsal Dinner

2008-06-20T20:59:00.001-05:00

Alex, Katie, Lindsey, Adam, Scott, Britt, Ashlynne, Teresa

Anna, Jenny, Andrew & Phil all came from North Alabama to

Baton Rouge, LA for Todd & Jennifer's wedding. It was great

to have friends there from home. Thanks for making the trip!!

Huntsville Friends getting ready for the bubbles

2008-06-20T20:54:00.003-05:00

Adam, Lindsey, Jenny, Britt & Scott

from Huntsville get ready to blow bubbles

as Todd & Jennifer leave for their honeymoon.

Jennifer & Todd's Wedding

2008-06-20T17:33:00.003-05:00

The (10) bridesmaids' side of the wedding. (these

are a few of our family's pictures.) To view the professional

photographer's complete set of pictures, contact us by

email: tjbougher@bellsouth.net

Jennifer & Todd Bougher

2008-06-20T17:22:00.002-05:00

What a beautiful bride and handsome

groom ready for the Wedding Reception!

Mr. & Mrs. Todd Bougher

2008-06-20T17:18:00.001-05:00

Jennifer & Todd entered the Reception Hall smiling and

enjoying the cheers of their family and friends.

Jennifer & Todd's Prayer

2008-06-20T17:14:00.003-05:00

A quiet moment with Uncle Rusty
praying.

Alyssa, Jan & Tiffany

2008-06-20T17:08:00.001-05:00

Here we are at Aunt Jeannie's House,

before the humidity got us - before the

wedding!

Jan's youngest sister, Leisa & Family

2008-06-20T16:57:00.003-05:00

Adam, Rusty, Leisa, Annaleis, Alex, & Ashlynne Nelson

were a big part of the wedding. Adam was a groomsman,

Rusty was the minister, Leisa was the family photographer,

Alex escorted my mom and me at the wedding, and "Anna"

and Ashlynne provided a lot of fun and entertainment.

Rusty & Leisa are pastors of The Rock Family Worship Center

in Huntsville, AL where we attend and work. We were so

happy to have them at the wedding supporting us.

Tiffany & Uncle Dave Ohlerking

2008-06-20T16:42:00.001-05:00

Tiffany, our daughter and Uncle Dave with his famous

Diet Coke, enjoyed a few fun moments at the reception.

He has been a missionary for 40+ years. It was wonderful

to have Jean & Dave "in the USA" in time for the wedding!

Jean (Bougher) Ohlerking - Tom's Sister

2008-06-20T16:17:00.006-05:00

Jean and her husband, David Ohlerking,
(missionaries/Children's Cup.org - they serve the
thousands of children in Swaziland who have lost
the adults in their families to HIV), were at Todd
& Jennifer's wedding because they live in Baton
Rouge - part of the time.

It was so nice to stay in their home the week before
the wedding! We had a blast!!
They go to Healing Place Church.

Jan's sister, Teresa, Katie & Mike (The Yeagers)

2008-06-19T21:31:00.004-05:00

We loved having my middle sister, Teresa, her daughter,
Katie and her husband, Mike Yeager at Todd and Jennifer's
wedding all the way from Florence, AL. I think they enjoyed
some of the Cajun food they experienced. 'Sorry we caught
them eating! Teresa arranged the flowers for the Rehearsal
dinner at Boutin's Resturant. They drove Mom & Dad down
to the wedding. Many thanks to them!

Mom and Dad Lowery Dancing at Todd and Jennifer's Wedding

2008-06-19T21:00:00.003-05:00

It was quite entertaining to see "Mama
Charlotte" and "Grandaddy" on the dance
floor at Todd and Jennifer's wedding
reception! (They are 82 years old.)

Two months of physical therapy had
her up and dancing! We were so thrilled
they could make the trip.

Many thanks to Mike and Teresa
and Katie who drove them 9 hours.
Having them there was a dream come true!

BUNNY INVASION!

2008-06-13T19:28:00.000-05:00

Yes, we have MORE bunnies! Lyssie and her friend Erica
were over for grilled hotdogs & hamburgers and we found
another bunny nest in our back yard.

There are 4 bunnies in this nest. As you can see they have
not yet opened their eyes and have very little body hair.

FYI: You are looking at the rear view of Cupcake - Erica is
holding her. Lyssie has named the other bunnies Fudge,
Sugar and Cookie.

For those of you who are counting, that is Bougher Bunny
Nest #4. We have a fenced in back yard and no dogs -
apparently great territory for bunny nests.

(Everything will be fine ... until the day Jan finds out that
these furry little critters will eat plants and flowers right
out of your flower garden!)

Lyssies an Honor Star!

2008-06-10T14:00:00.000-05:00

Last Wednesday night we celebrated an
Honor Star Graduation.
(Lyssie is in the middle!)

Todd & Jen's Wedding May 23, 2008

2008-06-01T18:38:00.003-05:00

On Friday, May 23rd our son Todd, married Jennifer
Rivet. They were married at The Forrest Grove Plantation
in Denham Springs, Louisianna. After honeymooning in the
Bahamas, the newlyweds will make their home in Madison,
Alabama.

Here Turkey, Turkey, Turkey!

2008-05-08T09:25:00.001-05:00

You are observing Dad Lowery as he calls a turkey on his
60 year old Lynch box call. Bobby Lowery, now retired
from the ministry after 50+ years, was in Tennessee last
week with his nephew Andy Thompson.

Andy owns a beautiful piece of property just south of
Lake Dale Hollow. His cabin sits right in a valley on the
north end of the property.
(What a great place to kick back!)

Dad is sitting in a pop up blind - about 60 yards from the cabin.
He was calling from the cabin porch when a gobbler responded
to his call.

So, we walked out behind the barn and set up a little closer.
FYI: We have placed a fold-out arm chair in the blind for his
comfort. 3 decoys are just 20 yards out the window.

Note: His cane is hanging out the window.
I wonder how copper shining in the sun looks to a turkey?

He worked 2 birds from that position for over an hour.
His camo may be old school, but he can still work up a
gobbler!

P.S. The only turkey we will get to eat, this time,
will have to come from Publix.

More Rabbits!

2008-04-30T12:52:00.000-05:00

This is the 3rd year that we have had baby bunnies born
in our back yard. We live in a housing area that used to be
a pasture, and before that a cotton field. I guess no one
told the rabbits that we moved in.

This year 4 bunnies were found in a small hole in the ground,
between our 2 bedroom windows. I took Lyssie, our
granddaughter, to see the bunnies. I slowly and carefully
uncovered the hole.

FYI:Rabbits dig out the ground and cover the hole with
grass and bunny fur.

Lyssie knew to be very quiet and not to move too quickly,
but when she picked up one snuggly little bunny, it wiggled
unexpectedly in her hand and all of the bunnies scattered
from the hole.

For the next few minutes, we were running and crawling
and searching for lost bunnies. Finally we gathered all 4
bunnies and placed them back in their secret hideaway.
Whew!

Update: Today, we found the hole empty, Momma and
the little family have gone to find greener pastures.

And last night, we found a small bird's nest in the wreath
at our front door. Three eggs, 2 light blue and one brown
with spots. What is this? Madison Zoo?

Gino ... FOUND!

2008-04-22T19:44:00.000-05:00

I went to Michigan last week for a Teacher Enrichment
Conference and found my old room mate from CBC.
Gene Zwiernikowski, AKA "Gino" now lives in Ypsilanti,
Michigan with his wife Gina.

We last saw each other sometime in the fall of 1972. Wow!
Who knew that Google could find a Zwiernikowski?

We are praying for a great year of blessing for Gene and Gina.
Last year held some very unexpected hurdles, but their
testimony is strong, "God is faithful!"

Jennifer & Todd - The Date is Set!

2008-04-15T20:35:00.001-05:00

The wedding is set for Friday, May 23 in Baton Rouge.
For more details check out - jentodd.blogspot.com
There will be a Post Wedding Celebration in Huntsville.
We will post that information here, when all of the plans
have been finalized.

Shooosh! We are RECORDING!

2008-03-05T21:06:00.000-06:00

Lyssie in the studio with her xylophone.

Lyssie - Queen of the Science Fair

2008-03-05T21:00:00.001-06:00

Our grand daughter Alyssa just participated in her first Science Fair. With the help of her uncle Todd and her PaPa, she made her own 6 note xylophone.

She tried different kinds of wood, pine, poplar, birch and oak. She learned to use the chop saw, the table saw, the router and the sander. (We were careful to use goggles and guarded every little finger!)

Lyssie had to experiment with different lengths and thicknesses of the wood to try and get a good tone. It turned out to be quite a project for a 10 year old, 5th grader. She found out that hard wood makes a much better tone than soft wood - but soft wood is so much easier to cut and sand. She even went into the studio to record the different wood types. Many nights were spent consulting over the phone with Aunt Jeannie in Baton Rouge. Aunt Jeannie is world famous for her marimba skills. With all of this help, no wonder she made three A's for her first Science Fair Project.
Whew! I'm tired. PaPa

A 1964 Corvair

2008-01-19T10:52:00.000-06:00

Here is the only picture of my '64 Corvair.
Apparently, some people have never heard of a Chevrolet "Corvair" - thanks to Ralph Nader.
FYI: Bucket seats, automatic, rear engine - pancake 6.
I only had 2 wire wheel covers.
Last seen in Des Moines - Spring 1972.
Tell me, have you seen her?
BTW - The guy needs a haircut.

Remembering the Past.

2008-01-16T10:56:00.000-06:00

2008

At the beginning of every year my mind wanders back to the past.
That may be a sign of getting old?
(I guess it could be worse – I could try to think back and NOT remember!)

Things like this often come up:
ü What ever happened to my ’64 Corvair?
ü I wonder what happened to my Hoover High football jersey - number 34?
ü Will Iowa have a Great football team this year?
(Let’s all stop now and pray! … Hey, that wasn’t long enough!)
ü I wonder if that girl, I dated in ’68, ever found out that I ran over her cat, just before I came to pick her up? (Yes, it happened! … And NO, I never told her!)
ü I wonder if anyone is still using Storm Lake Bible Camp?
ü I wonder what ever happened to Gene Zwernekowski? (My old college room mate.)

The exciting thing is, if I really wanted to, every one of these things could be followed up and answered. (Well, maybe not predetermining the Hawkeye’s football season.)

So now I wonder ….
If we don’t’ act upon the things that tug at our hearts, will we ever come to a day that we are filled with REGRETS?

June 1956
I am so thankful that one day, in the summer of ’56, I felt a tug in my heart – that tug was God. That was the day that I asked Him into my heart and He changed everything. Now, I am FORGIVEN. (I am currently being processed into His likeness. My life is being adjusted to Heaven’s standard.)

You too can respond to the tug in your heart. Just ask Him to come in and forgive you.
Don’t take any regrets into the future – make that decision today.

God offers you a “Do Over”. That will be the best offer you ever get in 2008!

It's Official!

2008-01-14T11:40:00.000-06:00

Our son, Todd and his girl friend Jennifer, were officially engaged on Christmas night 2007! (He met her two years ago when he was working at Healing Place Church.)We are all so excited. Todd spent his first Christmas away from home ... we knew something was up. They are planning a May wedding in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. More details to follow.

Jazzie playing tennis on the patio.

2008-01-04T20:38:00.000-06:00

Another generation of Cabbage Patch kids!

2008-01-04T20:13:00.000-06:00

Red's my color!

2008-01-04T20:12:00.000-06:00

Just what I needed!

2008-01-04T20:10:00.000-06:00

Is it what you wanted?

2008-01-04T20:06:00.000-06:00

Mom Charlotte is getting the last drop of Hot Chocolate!

2008-01-04T20:04:00.000-06:00

Finally! It's stocking time!

2008-01-04T20:03:00.000-06:00

The Pain of Christmas 2007 - Lyssie in "Waiting Mode."

2008-01-04T19:51:00.000-06:00

Christmas 2007

2008-01-04T19:46:00.000-06:00

Yes, it was Christmas morning. We spent the night at Tiffany & Alyssa's house. Mama Charlotte, Grandaddy, (Jan's folks) Tiff, Lyssie, Jazzie (The Dachshund) Jan and me all in the same house.

The plan was to wait until everything was ready before anyone started. (Lyssie was upstairs ..dying to come down!)

Note the picture: Mom Charlotte is digging in her stocking ... AHEAD of schedule!

Still the One!

2007-12-11T20:06:00.000-06:00

This year, the staff at The Rock FWC here in Huntsville had our pictures taken. And we're still havin' fun and .... she's still the one!

We've Only Just Begun.

2007-12-11T19:39:00.000-06:00

Hint: This blog may be better appreciated by cuing up the songs
on your iTunes as you read along.
You can also play Guess the Artist - Answer Key at the bottom of this post.

Cue: 1. We've Only Just Begun

Once upon a time, (that’s how all good stories start) some high school graduates headed off to College. They came from the North and the South, the East and the West. Now this was not just any college mind you, this was Bible College.
It was Central Bible College, Springfield, Missouri.

Cue: Timpanies Roll and Lightning Flashes.

C.B.C. was the land of the Flying Flockstra, Home of the English Opals, Beowolfe Drakes, and the Musical Swaim. And the only location of McGee’s Greek in a Week, Horton’s Follies and Harris’ 7 AM Old Testament sleepover.

Cue: Play Sabre Dance

Anxiety and anticipation were multiplying as every car unloaded another new student. Luggage and foot lockers were carried up flights of stairs to rooms where once Crabtrees and Suddeth/Mayos dwelt. Only freshmen were arriving … everyone was excited and wondering where to go and who they would meet. (Upper classmen would arrive later.)

Who knew that on this, the very first day of school, 2. the earth would move right under my feet? Or that this would be 3. a moment to remember?

After setting up my room and being introduced to my room mate. I found a new friend. Sammy was from Kansas City, not too far from my home town. And he was moving in next door, our rooms connected via the bathroom.

Sammy's roommate, Dave would spend the whole semester sleeping in a sleeping bag. I guess he thought he went off to Storm Lake Bible Camp. After 1 semester, Dave and his bag went back home. Camp wasn't as much fun as Dave remembered. (4. Momma told him not to come.)

Sammy and I decided that it was time to check out our new campus. Now, we really weren’t interested in the landscaping.

5. Hello, I love you, won't you tell me your name?

We headed toward a big white building, we looked in and saw the nice new shiny wood floor, when the wind changed, (Whew!)we knew we were in the gym. No one was shooting hoops that day, so we moved on.

Next, we heard the sound of beautiful music coming from one of the rooms near by. We followed the sound up the stairs.

Cue: Piano playing - 6. It Won't Be Long

We peeped in the small window of every door; in each room was an upright piano. We climbed more stairs until we found the room where the music was coming from. Sammy and I opened up the door and we both sat on each side of the piano bench with the most beautiful girl in the world. We were totally uninvited guests, but this young lady seemed to enjoy our company.

Cue: Background Music, Play softly - 7. Close to You

Her name was Janet. She was from Alabama. And with every word she spoke, a song was sung. (Music: Why do birds suddenly appear, everytime you are near?) In just a few more sentences, Sammy took off. Janet and I talked some more.

That was Friday.
On that same day, we tried out for Revivaltime Choir ...Together.
On Friday night we went roller skating and sang oldies… Together.
8. Dream, Dream-Dream-Dream! AKA All I Have To Do Is Dream
On Saturday, we went to Fantastic Caverns ... Together.
On Sunday ... we went to Central Assembly Together!

On Monday we went to class… Apart! Ugh!
After three great days, Jan wanted to check out ...the landscape.

That’s when I learned that 9.One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do.

Oh the torment, as she went through the motions of dating other guys. What a waste!
10. And I think I'm going out of my head.

Couldn’t she hear the voice of God?
For eight long months I watched and waited.
(I changed my cologne 6 times!)
FYI: She even looked good at 7 AM in OT Survey!

Cue: Play softly Close to You again

When we passed in the halls, she always had a smile and the smell of some intoxicating perfume. (Music: On the day that you were born the angels got together and decided to create a dream come true.)
That prefume? It was White Shoulders – I would find out later.
She traveled as the pianist for Tempos, I sang tenor in RT.
How could this ever come to be?

Then one early spring day, the opportunity arose.
It was the annual Revivaltime Banquet.

Cue: Trumpet Fanfare (Butter? Parkay!)

Bud Larson and his lovely wife were scheduled to be singing and playing their instruments for us, it was sure to be night for romance.

Cue: Marimbas play softly

But would she go with me?
Oh the dreadful thought of her saying ... NO!

Cue: Soap Opera Organ

I had to overcome the thought of being rejected and somehow ask her. At first, she seemed reluctant. I think her roommate had to encourage her to go – thanks Nancy!

She finally said “Yes" and that night was truly the beginning.
Cue: 11. Put Your Head on My Shoulder
(Remember - She wasted eight whole months!)

She said “Yes” again Christmas 1971. And we got married the next summer and graduated in 1974.
Cue: 12. 59th Street Bridge Song AKA Happy Together!

And we lived happily ever after.

Cue: Movie Theme from Love Story
Where do I begin to tell a story of how great a love can be?

(This Love Story doesn’t have an ending.)

After 35 years, she’s still the most beautiful girl in the world.
Now we have a beautiful daughter, a beautiful granddaughter and a handsome son.
Just think what she almost missed!

Credits
1. The Carpenters
2. Carol King
3. The Lettermen
4. 3 Dog Night
5. The Doors
6. Andrae Crouch
7. The Carpenters
8. The Everly Brothers
9. 3 Dog Night
10. The Lettermen
11. Paul Anka Originally, we liked The Lettermen version best.
12. Harpers Bizarre

How many did you get right?
Winners - go to revivaltimememories.blogspot.com and receive your prize - a natural/fake wood border picture of RT 1972 version!

FYI:

The picture above was taken on the night of the RT banquet, April 1971.

The picture on the right was taken on August 4th 1972, our wedding day.

Harry Kenneth Bougher Sr.

2007-09-10T09:50:00.000-05:00

Harry, H.K. …..Our Dad.
(This post was part of what was shared at Dad's funeral at New Hope A/G, Urbandale, Iowa on September 8th.)

A Little Bougher History
Harry Kenneth Bougher - Harry, H.K. …..Our Dad.
October 22, 1914 - September 4, 2007
Dad was one of 5 children Thelma, Virgil, Dad, Bea & Dorothy. They are the children of James and Minnie Bougher.

Moving
It must have been a hard life for those Boughers – they moved wherever there was a harvest ready to pick, or a mine that needed miners. From southern Iowa to northern Arkansas they would move. Aunt T told us the story of one move they made in a horse drawn wagon when Dad was just a baby. She said they would stop along the way and sleep out under the wagon. Can you imagine?

Saturday Night Baths
Dad told us how they all would get to take a bath on Saturday night. With a big wash tub in the center of the kitchen, they would bring in water to be heated on the stove and pour the hot water into the tub. The Girls got to go first then Uncle Virgil and Dad would fight for the #4 spot. The only thing that changed from one bath to the next was that they would add more hot water. No one wanted to be taking the last bath!

Dad's Employment
Grandpa (James) Bougher provided the best he could, but it had its affect on Dad (Harry). At 16, Dad left home to be on his own and started work at Grocer’s Wholesale in Des Moines. With his 6th grade education, his smile and his energy, he ended up working at Electrical Engineering and Equipment Company aka 3E, as a Salesman. Later he would become the general office manager and bookkeeper and serve as vice president.

Harry Meets Vera - The Love Story Begins
Dad met mom at church – she was singing. He always said Mom was in a white dress, Mom said it was blue. They double dated with friends – but mom was with the other guy. That’s when Dad put his plan in action – he took the others home first, so he could be with mom. You know the rest of that story.

Dad's Games
Math & bookkeeping was easy for Dad. He had a mind for remembering all kinds of things. On vacations, while driving in the car, he played a memory game with us. We would give him 20 things – (We wrote them down).
1. White Horse
2. Blue Volks Wagon Bug
3. Green Oil Pump and so on ….
3 hours later, we would ask what was number 2 – and he would give us the correct answer. Yes, 10 hours later, number 1 and even the next day number 13!

He also liked to play the “guess how much money is in my pocket” game. He would shake all of his change out into his hand –count to 3 and then you would guess. Guess the right amount and you win the total. (Steve is the only one I remember winning.)

The Next Boughers
Bud came first, Jean, then Steve & I was last.
We were not rich, but Dad & Mom did all they could to provide a great home for us. When I was small, Dad, Bud & Uncle Karl built our house on 2811 Stanton, Steve and Jean may have helped – I just don’t remember. You could reach us, on our party line at Cherry 43990. Stanton was a 3 bedroom ranch house with 1 bathroom.

When Dad finally put a shower in the basement, we all thought we had moved into the Hilton. Now, we had no central air back then, but we did have an attic fan. Our attic fan had a Nutone timer on it – remember Dad worked at 3E. Those timers saved money. In the summer, we all would go to sleep with the windows open and that louvered attic fan on. It would bring all the air in through the windows and blow it up through the attic. But that timer would shut the fan off in just 60 minutes, the louvers would shut with a whomp and then we would all collectively moan. So, Dad would get up, put on his house slippers, clop, clop, clop and reset the timer. (I wonder how many times he thought “I should’ve bought a 2 hour timer”?)

Bougher Concerts - FREE Admission
We had family jam sessions on Sunday afternoons – the neighbors must have loved us! Dad played the sax, Mom sang and played her guitar, Bud & Steve played the trumpet, Jean played the marimba. I made noise with a plastic toy trumpet. We were the original Tijuana Brass – Bougher Version of course. We had “Mansion Over the Hilltop” down. Many of you may remember Mom and Dad playing and singing duets at church. “In the Garden" and "He Whispers Sweet Peace” were two of their favorites. (Most of their songs were about Heaven.)

Obedience was Taught at Home & Away
We were taught the right way to live and the consequences of the wrong way. I remember taking trips to the bathroom during church – these were not bladder problems mind you, I had been disobedient and Dad was going to apply some pressure to the seat of knowledge. (See Proverbs 13:14 for more info.) The switch, the belt, the paddle, the fly swatter – all had “Apply As Needed” written right on the handle at our house.

Wrong Pew - Wrong Time
Later, we were allowed to quietly sit with our buddies in the pew ahead of Mom & Dad, and if you were goofing off during church, Dad would just reach up and thump you on the back of the head. As we grew older, Mom and Dad allowed us to sit over with the other teenagers. Dick, Rick, Rod and Bill were always close by. But I can still hear Dad’s wing tips walking over to our section, when Rod Erickson dropped a glass communion cup and it bounced all the way down to the altar on that tile floor at First A/G. I was in the wrong pew at the wrong time.

God is Our Strength
We knew that no one could make it without God’s help. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in the time of trouble.” Psalm 46:1 Many of you helped re-enforce the biblical teaching we were already learning at home. To that, all of us are eternally grateful. Mom & Dad taught us that God was our source of strength through every storm and every struggle. And that with God, all things are possible. Phi. 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” And they modeled that before us. You folks were the exclamation points.

Dad was the solid rock at our house. We knew that we could ask Dad anything. You might not get what you want, but you could always ask. One of the things he would tell us is, “Its always good to want.”

Dad's Antics
I don’t remember Dad bringing home anything from work but a smile.

That could be because he was always up to something. And Mom was usually the one on the receiving end of one of his stunts. Like the time he climbed up on the washer (in the basement) and while Mom was at the kitchen sink - main floor, he reached up through the dirty clothes shoot, opened the cabinet door and grabbed her leg. I’m sure they heard Mom scream all the way to Hoover High.

Dad's Twisted Words
He made life fun by changing words around. Bail Mox, Shake a Tower, Gair-age and
Ga-nat were just some of his spoonerisms heard over & over. You had to learn his code: a "Spark Plug" was a "Fire Plug" and a "Bugler" was a bug that needed to be swatted. He told us to watch out for bad drivers - "the old man with a hat" - he was the worst kind of driver. Then the day came when he told us "now, I are one."

Sharing the Truth - Jesus is the Only way to Heaven.
Our Dad knew when to be serious. And he knew that there were special times that God was at work. Dad & Mom were both serious about sharing the good news that Jesus is the only way to heaven. They have co-workers in heaven now telling their stories.

Tony heard the Good News
Like Tony - Tony was one of the bosses of the warehouse at 3E. We all knew Tony, he would sit up in the break room and chew his tobacco – when he spit it on the floor of the balcony, it would eventually drip through the old flooring and …. we’ll let’s just say that you didn’t want to be checking under the balcony, when Tony was on break. Tony was one of those rough characters that heard the good news from Dad. I know he was there Tuesday with Bud and Mom to meet Dad.

Heaven is REAL
You may see tears in our eyes today, because we loved our Dad, our Grandpa, and our Great Grandpa. That is because he will be missed. But we know the truth of that old song we played on Sunday afternoons -
“I’ve got a mansion just over the hilltop in that bright land where we’ll never grow old”
What a place. No Alzheimer’s! No disease! No tears! Are YOU ready for Heaven?

Jesus said it this way “In my Father’s house are many mansions, if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” John 14:2

And to that, we hear the words of the Apostle Paul “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” II Cor. 5:8
Our hearts are filled with joy … because Dad is at peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

Our Family Commitment
Church Family, Here is Our Commitment to You:
We will be:
... a Family of Living Epistles.
... a God Fearing, God Believing Family,
... a Family of Faith from Generation to Generation.

Our every Son, and every Daughter will hear the stories of Grandpa Harry and Grandma Vera Mae. Their legacy is forever planted in our hearts.
And we will tell it over and over, ... until the last trumpet sounds.

The Story will Continue
We are the book of the generations of Harry and Vera.
To God be the glory!

The Bougher Family – Generations 2, 3 and 4… so far!

P.S. In every note Grandma sent, she would add at the end:
Jesus is coming Soon!

Our Dad - Almost 93

2007-09-06T10:10:00.000-05:00

Tuesday came early ... we have our weekly 6 AM staff prayer time together. That morning I asked for prayer for my Dad ... for a peaceful, painless homegoing. We had just heard that Hospice was called in and no one knew just how long he would be with us. Later on Tuesday, Dad took his final breath on this earth and then breathed in Heaven's atmosphere, our prayers were answered. (We lost Mom a couple of Christmases back, and then Bud passed away last Thanksgiving.) Dad had Alzheimer's and struggled with remembering what he ate for breakfast.

We continue to feel the loss of our Dad, but we rest in the reassurance that to be absent from this body is to be with the Lord. The songs sung & played by our Mom and Dad will forever ring in our ears .... I've got a mansion, just over the hilltop. What a blessed hope we have ... Christ in us the hope, the realization of glory!

Harry Kenneth Bougher Sr.
October 22, 1914 - September 4, 2007

Parenting with God

2007-08-24T12:29:00.000-05:00

Parenting comes with unknown risks, but also with great benefits. I know, …I am now a grandfather. I’ll get back to this later.

I watch Nanny 911 & Super Nanny with mixed emotions. I wonder just how bad it must be for these families to have to go through the embarrassment of being on national TV with their family problems.

Where are the mentors for these Moms & Dads? It is almost like we have had a generation grow up by them selves.

First things first – I don’t believe anyone can raise a child, without the help of God.
I know, it is not politically correct to bring God up in anything today, and that again I believe just adds to our problems. It doesn’t take a village, it takes a parent who is in contact with the God who made us. So, here is my point: with God in your life, you have someone to call on at all hours of the day and night, who has the information you need, and the power to help you make it through. I need that kind of support, and so do you!

God’s Word makes some pretty interesting reading about parenting. It doesn’t always agree with Super Nanny either. Super Nanny would tell us to use only words to discipline. God’s Word says that we must teach children that there are consequences to their bad choices. (The prison system agrees, teach them now or they will later.)

Check out this wisdom from one of the wisest Dad’s in all history:
A refusal to correct is a refusal to love. Love your children by disciplining them.
He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him.
Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him.

You see, there are times that your children must feel the sting of disobedience. Now, understand, beating your child with anger in your heart is not what God’s Word is talking about.

Step One - Get Yourself Under Control
Sometimes we have to send our kids away from us to get our disappointment/anger under control – count to 10 , … 100 or wait 30 minutes before we discipline. And ask yourself, what is the best way to get my child to understand what he has done? (This is another time to ask God for help – He knows exactly what you should do.)

Sometimes all it takes is exactly what the nanny suggests – talk to him and give him “Time Out”. Note: One minute per year is about the right “Time Out” period – use a timer. And sending him/her to a room filled with toys & electronic devises is NOT time out!

Here is a good plan of action:
Make sure your child knows the rules, as well as the consequences of disobedience.
Stop the child and remind them of the rules, and the consequence of continuing.
Stick to your Rules & Follow through.
Talk to them & use the Time Out Plan
If they do it again, use the Time Out Plan & take away a privilege. Like: No TV, Video Games or Computer Access Tonight. And follow through.
If they do it a 3rd time – that is direct disobedience. Spanking is in order.

Spanking
It is better to use an object to paddle rather than your hand.
Try a paddle like the ones used as a toy with the red ball on a rubber band. Make sure you remove the staple along with the ball & band!
Try a paint stick or a wooden spoon.
Keep one in the car or real handy.
Never spank when YOU are angry.
Young children need a visual – let them see the handle hanging out of your purse.

Don’t make promises that you don’t keep!
How many times have you heard a parent say “If you do that one more time mommy is going to spank” and then never follow through? No wonder the child acts like that. Our restaurants are filled with undisciplined children. Sadly, most parents stay at home with their kids rather than deal with the problem.

Just WHO is in charge here?
Remember YOU are the parent. God has given you a little child that needs to be raised. They don’t come automatically making the right choices – we must TEACH them to choose things wisely.

Learn from Farmers and Farming
I like to think about horses when raising children. And I imagine that earlier generations that were raised on a farm had a better advantage when it comes to training/discipline. On the farms, as horses were born, there came a time that they had to be broken. This process was necessary, without being broken, the finest, strongest horse was worthless. And everyone on the farm knew the value of a strong horse that could be ridden or guided to pull a wagon or plow.

Discipline & Sacrifices were Real
Discipline had a real meaning to farmers – get up early, work hard at planting & plowing or … YOU DON’T EAT. Sacrifices were abundant. The pig had to die in order for them to have dinner. (My kids thought that meat came in plastic wrap at the grocery store.)

Children need Discipline
The problem is, parents must take the time to discipline and they must work together for discipline to work. (Some of our families have pets that are more disciplined than our children.)

Guidelines that Protect are needed
Discipline is really just guidelines that protect and encourage. Think about that little tree you planted in the back yard. You carefully selected the right spot, added good soil & Miracle Grow. You watered it frequently and you protected it from bugs and disease. As it grew, you added a plastic piece around the trunk to protect it from the weed-eater. Then you added wires and stakes to help it withstand storms and wind.

We do a pretty good job of keeping toddlers away from the poison under the sink – we put in child-proof cabinet locks. But when they get 6 or 8 or 10, we let them choose what music to listen to, what TV programs to watch, what Video Game to play and as long as they keep quiet, we assume everything is okay.

YOU must protect your children from All types of Hurt.
ü Who should decide what your child will listen to? YOU should!
ü Who should decide what your child will watch? YOU should!
ü Who should decide what games your child will play? YOU should!
ü Who should decide what books your child should read? YOU should!
ü Who should decide what your child will eat? YOU should!

When in doubt – Teach them the right way.
You cannot risk the life of a child to happenstance, the media, or the school system. You have only a few years to pour into that life. What are YOU teaching him? What will he value most in life? Whether you plan to teach him or not, you are teaching him life’s values. If all you do is work, he will learn the lesson. Ever heard the old song Cats in the Cradle?

Yes, I know you want to be a friend to your child. Well, now is not the time. YOU must first be a PARENT.

A Generation that grew up by themselves?
Children that grow up without parents are called orphans. Is that what we’ve allowed to happen in America? Have we substituted things instead of time with our kids? If you grew up without parental input, your parenting has been skewed. Now is the time to re-think your parenting skills.

Is it time to check out what you are teaching? School is great, Sunday School & Children’s Church is even better, but you are the PARENT. How much time do you spend with your kids? Don’t be suckered in with that Quality vs. Quantity stuff. When it comes to your kids Time equals LOVE.

Single parent - You are not alone.
Let God help you through every struggle, He will. He will be a Father to the fatherless. (That promise comes from the father of the other wise man quoted.) Grandparents can help here too - I know.

Now, that is where we started. If you have done your parenting job with loving care, benefits will follow. One of them is grandchildren. There is no greater joy than to hug your grand baby and to have her one day hug back. Now at age 10, I get to be a friend to my granddaughter, Alyssa. We play golf , tennis, go fishing and “hang out” – whatever that means. And there is such peace in your heart, when you know this baby/child is being raised to know right from wrong. Here is one of the quotes she has hidden in her heart:
Trust In the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him. And he will make your paths straight.

Mom & Dad, wherever you are in this process, DON”T GIVE UP! Start today. Let God guide your parenting and get your family to church!

Connecting to the Body of Christ - A Must for Every Believer!

2007-04-10T08:29:00.000-05:00

I John 4:7-12 If we love God, we MUST love others. That is how God lives in us and how His love is made complete in us – when we love others!
You see - Building Spiritual Relationships is God’s Plan for real LIFE.
He fulfills that plan with willing participants ….YOU & ME!

Interesting Church Statistics about Satisfied Members:
The most satisfied church members in America worship at places where they feel like they belong, where they are valued and appreciated, and where friendships flourish.
High levels of satisfaction occur where members are Engaged, Energized and Deepened in their Faith.
Church-Based Friendships that extend outside the weekly worship services report exceptionally high levels of satisfaction.
Members who are engaged by their church (ministry involvement) are most likely to be pleased with the state of their church.
Involvement & Commitment generate the highest levels of church satisfaction.

Three ways that people feel like they belong:
(1) Affinity Groups – through shared interests, meaningful relationships develop.
(2) Assimilation – moving people from spectators to participants.
(3) Affability – friendly greeters, simply by saying/knowing their names.

Two ways to Facilitate Relationships at Church:
(1) Be a Best Friend - 85% Satisfied members have friendships that extend outside
the weekly worship service.
(2) Share a Meal Together – 77% Satisfied members have eaten a meal with people in
their congregation in the last year.

Cultures of Connectivity - How to Attract & Retain People
Friendships with other church members is the main reason respondents say they join a church.
Q. How do these friendships develop?
A. Through Fellowship or Fun Times!

Group Facts You should know:
1. The Family Factor: after 18 months the group locks up!
2. The Size Factor: at 10 adult members you’ve peaked!
3. The Spin-Off Factor: allows your group to continue to be effective!

Q. Is there any correlation between relationships, a strong church and making a person’s faith strong?
A. “For every measure of spiritual maturity tested in this survey, those members who have deep friendships at church are significantly more likely to practice their faith commitments more regularly and rank spiritual maturity higher than church members who don’t have as much connection with other people at their church.” D. Michael Lindsay

Ø Connections build Encouragement!
Ø Connections increase Accountability!
Ø Connections create opportunities for Faith to Grow!

A Hermit may get to heaven by knowing Jesus. But his spiritual maturity will be lacking because he missed the interaction of other Christians … and Non-Christians. That interaction Tests our Faith and sands our rough areas. We become MORE like Jesus after we pass the tests of doing life together with others!

Q. Do friendships have anything to do with churches attracting and keeping people?
A. “The key for helping parishioners deepen their faith is relatively simple: create a faith community that values relationships; spiritual transformation will follow.”
D. Michael Lindsay

“One in 3 members of these super-friendly churches volunteer at their church at
least once a week, which is more than double those who attend less-friendly
churches.” (31% vs. 12%)

Q. Is there a secret to helping people put their faith into action?
A. Yes! Do LIFE Together! Model a servant. Do ministry with them!
“Americans desire not only friendly churches but also caring communities of faith.”

Q. What steps can we take to help people get Connected in the body of Christ?
A. “The silver bullet for spiritual depth is not a successful outreach program or an in-depth Bible study; it is instead, a faithful community of love and friendship.”
D. Michael Lindsay “ The power of the data is impressive.”

“People friendly congregations are places where friendships flourish and acts of caring are common, and the two go together.”

“Relationship is at the core of Christian community, and relationship can only occur in the presence of knowing and being known.”

I Cor. 12:24 & 25 “God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.

When we learn to worship the Father, He shows up & changes us. When we hang out with the Father, & with others who love the Father, His ways become our ways. When His heart becomes our heart … we see that the harvest is ready & we submit to His call & become a harvester. Evangelism happens when our eyes see the hurting & the lost and our feet follow to do something about it!

So we MUST:
1. Love them in the Parking Lot.
2. Love them at the Front Door.
3. Love them at Check-In with their kids.
4. Love them in the Hall, Sanctuary, Fellowship Hall, & the Coffee Shop.
5. Invite them to Join YOU in fellowship … in a Small Group!
6. Teach them (Model It)- to love the world by Serving & Sharing!

Santa Claus, The Little Drummer Boy, Frosty, Rudolph and Jesus

2006-12-07T13:54:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas! Yes, I said it … Merry Christmas! I know that we live in a world that is no longer celebrating the birth of Christ, we don’t want to offend anyone, so I’m supposed to say “Happy Holiday” to you. But what Holiday are we celebrating?

Most kids can sing you every lyric to Here Comes Santa Claus and Frosty the Snowman … but do they know ... Away in a Manger?

Who is telling our children and grandchildren that Christmas is the celebration of the birth of God’s only Son?

When Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem, they went to fulfill a required journey by Rome – to pay their taxes! While there, “the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”
Luke 2:4-7

The world has so diluted the reality of Christmas, that many families put Jesus in the same category as Frosty the Snowman and Santa Claus. To them they are ALL … FICTIONAL CHARACTERS!

Some of our kids really think that a drummer boy showed up at the manger.
Who will tell them that God needed someone to take our place?

In our town, Wal-Mart was displaying Christmas decorations and products for Christmas before October ended. Through all of December, we have FM Stations playing Christmas Music 24 hours a day. Problem is, they are playing all kinds of Holiday music. Frosty is a fun song … but he runs away and melts, the little drummer boy grows up & joins a rock band … then dies from an overdose.

Here’s their story:
Santa gives us toys, ... IF we are good, … IF we are bad, we get coal or switches!

Here’s the REAL Story:
But “God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:17

You can deck the Halls with boughs of holly,
but ....
- without JESUS there is NO Celebration,
- without JESUS there is NO Peace!
He is the JOY that God gives to the World.
He is the PEACE that everyman longs for.

There are still real Christmas Songs to sing:
Joy to the World the LORD is Come!
Let Heaven and nature SING!
Oh Holy Night!

Who will tell our kids the TRUTH?
Santa Claus is fun, Frosty is cute, and the Little Drummer Boy and Rudolph have lessons to teach us. Yes, sleigh rides and jingle bells are exciting.

But only JESUS made a way …
NO we must make it very plain: He made the ONLY WAY for us to get to Heaven.

- SIN separates us from a Holy God.
- Religion is man seeking God. There are many religions.
- Jesus came to connect us back to the Father. (God seeking MAN!)

“In the beginning was the Word (JESUS) and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.” John 1:1-2

"He was in the world, and though the world was made by Him, the world did not recognize Him. He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God." John 1:10-12

This is a story that MUST be told!
There is NO other way to Heaven.
There is NO other name whereby men can be saved.

The Angel met with Mary and told her the news –
“You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.” Luke 1:31-33

Sugarplum fairies may dance in your head … but that's because there’s too much ambrosia in your tummy! And there will be candy in your stocking because someone wants to keep the Santa legend alive.

But JESUS is no fictional character!
Who will tell our kids HIS STORY?

Don’t let the fun of Christmas overshadow the TRUTH of who He is.

Isaiah the prophet wrote about Him, hundreds of years before His birth.
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

YOU are leaving a memory with every Christmas you celebrate.
What is the story you are telling?
Who do your kids believe in?

Sing the songs that tell the story!
Celebrate the birthday of the KING of KINGS!

And MERRY CHRISTMAS to all!

Bud - Memories of a Big Brother!

2006-11-29T17:45:00.000-06:00

The Boughers have once again been asked to deal with the loss of a family member. On Wednesday, November 15th, my oldest brother, Bud passed away, at age 70.

Harry Kenneth Bougher Jr. Oct. 6 1936 – Nov. 15, 2006
We didn’t expect this to happen. (Dad is 92, doing pretty well at a nursing home in Urbandale, Iowa.) We thought that we had Bud for at least 20 more years. We can only rest in the fact that God does all things well.

We Celebrated Bud’s Homecoming in real Iowa Style
We started the funeral with the Iowa Marching Band playing. First it was the drum corps and then the whole band played the Iowa Fight song. This was no regular funeral – the family was all dressed in black …. Black & Gold, Iowa Hawkeye colors! We all marched in behind the casket, little Graham leading the way. Bud would have been proud.

Iowa Hawkeye’s Season Tickets
For the first time ever, Bud & Steve bought season tickets to watch Iowa play football. Bud & Steve took 2 kids every Saturday. 4 Boughers in the same car for a 2 hour trip plus 4 hours at a game. The kids got to go with their Papo (pronounced: Pop – O) and hear him laugh and holler for hours! “AAAAA!” they would holler. (They sat in the “A” section, the crowd was expected to spell out “I-O-W-A”during the game. My 2 brothers would start the “AAAA” at anytime they deemed necessary.)Bud’s last game was the Saturday before he died – Iowa’s last home game of the season. God had a plan! (We all wish the Hawks had played better!)

The Fun - eral
For over 2 hours the people at the funeral heard stories of the love and laughter Bud brought into our lives. Stories of Christmases past, where reindeer hooves were heard on the roof and sleigh bells rang out side the boy’s window – all to help encourage the Santa story. Bud & Steve could have written scenes for Mission Impossible – no prank was too difficult, it had to be done, and it had to be done right. I have no doubt that their shenanigans were developed by observing our Dad!

12 Grand Kids!
Funeral attendees heard the Eternal Hope from everyone of Bud’s 12 grandkids, that one day soon, we’ll have another Bougher Family Celebration, … next time in Heaven. Way to go Nephews & Nieces – Christ in You is the hope of Glory!

Mom always sang at Weddings & Funerals
Mom sang at Bud’s funeral via video tape. (Mom passed away last Christmas.) Somebody found a video of Mom singing “Home Sick for Heaven.” That song/video emptied many boxes of Kleenex. Thanks First A/G for the tape!

Nicknames
We told about Bud’s use of nicknames. He had one for everybody:
Tricky Dickey, Wee Willie, Bo Weave, Anna Banana, Aunt Weiners, Legs, Turkey Lurkey, Hose Nose and Scooby Doo …just to name a few. Hang around the Bougher Boys long enough and you’ll get one!

World Class Belching!
No, we didn’t talk about his unusual habit of belching louder than humanly possible. (It was church after all.) Thanks to many bottles of Pepsi, Bud developed this gift/? to the amusement of some and to the dismay of our mother. I once was with Bud on a trip to the mall. Upon exiting Sears, you enter the main section of the mall – a very echo-ie section of the mall. It was there, that he decided to test just how loud and long he could belch. Then after finishing, a little lady came around from behind a planter, looking at us in disbelief and Bud pointed to me, as if I was the perpetrator of such a loud uncouth sound! Lady, if you’re reading this, it really wasn’t me!

After displaying his gift, Mom would always say, “Bud, I’m waiting!”
That was Mom’s way of trying to teach Bud some manners. Bud was supposed to say, “Excuse me.” And somehow that was supposed to erase that obnoxious sound from our memory. (You can tell it didn’t work.)

Big Brother #1
To a 4 year old kid, there was nothing like hearing the sound of your big brother’s old Ford coming down the driveway. There was a hug at the door and a Peter Paul Mound in his pocket. So much to remember. Catching baseballs, footballs, Whiffle balls, and dodging snow balls. Learning to ride a bike without training wheels! Who needed training wheels? I had a brother on each side of my bike. Learning so much … sometimes learning what NOT to do. (That is one of the advantages of being the youngest.)

Anything that Bud passed down was seen as gold. ‘Cause if Bud wore it or used it …. it was just great. Bud was 16 the day after I was born, Steve was 9, so I didn’t need Bat Man & Robin, I had 2 Big Brothers!

He may not have known just how much influence he would have on his 2 younger brothers. We had flat tops … just like Bud. We keep our cars clean and waxed … just like Bud. We still spit shine our dress shoes, just like Bud!

Bud left a lasting legacy of Love, Laughter & Life. Live life full blast, Love with all your heart, and squeeze some heads along the way!
Bud was our Columbus, … with Steve they were Lewis & Clark. There was no way I was going to fail. Bud believed and taught us all, “I did it … YOU Can Do It” … and so we did!

Can you Belch in Heaven?
If belching is possible in Heaven, there are some lessons going on.
I think that may have been Bud’s signal at the pearly gates …
Beeeee yaaaaaaah ooooahhhh uuuuuuuuhhh aaaahhhhh uuuuuup!
Then he heard, “Bud, I’m waiting!”

The Van Alarm Saga - From The Adventures of Tom & Jan

2006-08-24T14:27:00.000-05:00

I thought you might be interested in my Van Alarm Saga.
First, you have to know that this week Jan woke up with a swollen right cheek - it looked like the mumps. So, we've been to the doctor 3 days!

This morning I got up headed to church with plenty of time - Staff meeting at 9:00 AM. I get in the van and I hear that awful click, click, click, of NO battery power. I thought quickly - could not find my jumper cables - so I called AAA and took the Buick to church. Now, I'm 10 minutes behind schedule, still might make it to staff meeting on time. Half way to church the low gas light comes on the Buick - I have to call in and let them know, I'm forced to stop and get gas.

After the AAA guy comes, he gets the car running & tells Jan to take it to Autozone for them to check the battery - good idea. I'm now out of Staff meeting, and I try to call Jan. No answer at home or on her cell phone - she has forgotten to charge her cell, so she is off without a phone. She's been sick remember.

Finally at 11:30 AM I get a call from Jan. She has arrived at Autozone and spent 1 hour waiting for them to charge the battery - which failed. She is now calling to get me to buy a new battery - I finally choose the mid priced version over the phone. Next the phone rings and the guy can't get the alarm to stop. The Van will not run until the alarm is turned off. He has tried all he knows to do. Everytime he hooks up the battery the light, horn and alarm goes off!

They call me for info that I don't have, it's a used van - I even called former users & owners.
(Nobody knows the trouble I seen!)
Still no one knows what to do to shut off the alarm. I start calling alarm dealers in the yellow pages, I'm trying to find my old bosses phone number. I'm trying to find a Dodge dealer in Springfield, Missouri.

When all of a sudden - I come upon Sound Depot, (a Car Alarm Company) - their address is just blocks away from where the van is. I call the guy, and he gives me a couple of things to try - still the alarm is ON. Flash, Flash, Honk, Honk, Whaaa, Whaaa!

Finally the guy from Sound Depot goes to Autozone and finds the problem.

Here is the SECRET Code - WRITE THIS DOWN:
On the key fob is a Lock and Unlock button.
If you push the Unlock button - the alarm goes OFF!

Hurray. I need a nap! Jan still has to go to the doctor today - I think I'll go with her and ask the doctor for some green pills. Anyway, I'm just out about $60.00 plus the $10.00 Jan tipped the guy for helping. Oh ... plus the doctor bill.

Somebody write an editorial, call Rush!
The Hezbollah have started stealing Battery power during the night!
The Al-Queda have taken over the brains of Autozone employees.
And a guy in a low-rider just pulled up and offered to jump my battery.
My wife's doctor is named Dang .... & that "Dang" doctor wont' give me any green pills!
Sorry Mom!

2006-06-06T15:12:00.000-05:00

Cruisin' for Christ!
Who knew that this was a mission field? We left Huntsville, on Monday excited about the opportunity to be on a Christian cruise.
“Cruise with a Cause” they called it. Over 2000 Christians on the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. It really was a great place, the bars were closed, the casino had no customers, and all of the auditoriums were filled with seminars and Christian concerts. Monday afternoon we left Port Canaveral and headed out into the deep.

On Tuesday, we landed in Freeport, Bahamas, a Christian nation … that still needs Jesus. We infiltrated the schools with assemblies, we witnessed in the streets and that night over 1600 people came to know Jesus at the Sports Complex. Wow!

But the best part was hearing from the staff on the cruise line. We were told the report that the crew had truly noticed a difference in the life and attitudes of these cruisers. They stated that they had never been treated like “PEOPLE” before. And the pizza manager wanted to know more about this Jesus. Get out the Kleenex!

Paul said we are living epistles … people really are reading our lives! Who knew that the mission field was on a boat named Sovereign of the Seas?

We went to the Bahamas to share Christ, but we touched over 52 nations of the world on that cruise line.

Opportunities are always around us. We are not always aware of the eyes looking for a touch, a thank you, or a good morning.

Godly appointments … like the one that sent Jesus out of his way through Samaria. Through his obedience a whole city found God!

We will continue to pray for the people of Freeport, Bahamas. God has connected us with those people, and with the 1000 men & women who serve aboard the Sovereign of the Seas … it’s like a floating city.
God save our ship!

A Tribute to Mom

2005-12-30T17:21:00.000-06:00

Vera Mae Bougher 1917-2005
Most of us are acquainted with June Clever, Vestel Goodman, and Aunt Bea. (One was a loving mother, the other a gospel singer and the last, a great cook & housekeeper.) No one ever expects to get a Mom with all of those qualities …. but we did. Bud, Jean, Steve & me, we were blessed with a Mom who never ran out of hugs, kisses, pats, pieces of pie and songs about Jesus. Our Mom was able to cook for us great meals, keep the house white glove clean, … for over 70 years, it was given the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval! (Well it could have been.) She did all that while at the same time singing to us about Heaven, and about the love of God.

Last July, she celebrated a glorious life of 88 years! Who knew? When Mom spoke after a family Thanksgiving meal… all ears where attentive. She had been unable to speak clearly for 9 months or so. And yet after that Thanksgiving prayer, she makes it very clear “Final Mile, Final Mile, Final Mile.” No one realized then what Mom AKA Grandma/Great-Grandma was saying, but on the video tape you can clearly hear the evidence. She knew this was her final mile. She fell asleep on Tuesday the 21st and woke up in the presence of her Lord. Homesick for Heaven … no more.

Her funeral was at the church - the only place she would have wanted it. It just happened to be Christmas Eve morning. The family gathered, now there are 60 Boughers … some have other last names, but they are still Boughers! (Sis and Dave, missionaries to the hurting children of Africa, had to fly in – they made it, but their clothes ended up in Jamaica!) We were so surprised at the many friends and loved ones who showed up. What a tribute to Mom.

Yes, there were tears, but not for Mom … you see her arthritis was GONE, her dementia was GONE, her brittle bones were GONE! She had traveled her last mile.

This was really a day of Celebration, because we grew up, knowing about a Mansion she had, Just Over the Hilltop.
(That was a song the whole family would play and sing. If you came to the Bougher’s house on most Sunday afternoons you’d hear a C- Melody sax, a guitar, a marimba and three trumpets, playing for hours. We must have driven our neighbors nuts!)

We have so many fond memories. Most of them are attached to her songs. I not sure that Mom ever knew how she was shaping our lives with her music. Some of the grandkids still refer to her lovingly as the “Doggie in the Window” Grandma.

Her music was a reflection of her heart: I’ll Never Be Lonely Again ; He Wiped Away My Tears; In the Garden; and the song she sang via tape at her own funeral … I’ll Sing a New Song Over in Glory a song the angels cannot sing! Wow – get out the Kleenex boxes.

I think I now understand more about what helped our family make it through the tough times and struggles of life. Where ever we were, we knew Mom was praying for us and her songs kept ringing in our ears.

Memories work better than IPODS, believe me! (Mom did record a 78 LP Record. Try to find a way to play that or explain it to your nephews.)

But the real strength of our family is hidden behind a commitment that our Mom & Dad made long before any of us were born. They decided to be at church every time the doors were open. (Something their folks did not do.)

We went to church when there was no nursery or children’s church. Mom would feed us Cheerios, and put blankets under the pew for us to lie on. We learned to be quiet and reverence the House of God. Is that a forgotten concept? We heard the same songs and the same messages as the adults and it changed us. We found out that if we got out of hand, too noisy, or disruptive, Dad or Mom would help adjust our attitudes by applying a paddle, a belt, a spoon, or a switch, to the seat of knowledge.

(For a long time, I thought that the church bathroom was built just for spankings.) “Spare the rod & spoil the child” was a promise used frequently and effectively. The only place for Dr. Spock was on Mom’s prayer list.

Did it work?
I was a drinker and a liar and a thief …I stole cookies, drank milk and told stories. At four years of age - I needed JESUS! And when Pastor Long called for all sinners to come down to the altar, I knew he was talking to ME! And I ran to that altar. And YES, it worked!

Thank God for a Mom & a Dad who knew the importance of keeping their kids in church. Church was more important than Baseball, Football, Clubs, Boy Scouts, Band, Science, and even Algebra!
(Homework was done before church, just like the dishes were done after dinner. Dish Washing machines and Snow Blowers were not needed at our house. Dad bought those after we all left home.)

Here is the Heart of their Commitment:
What we heard at church was being lived before us at home!

Our Sunday School Teachers, … and we had some great ones, were only repeating the truths we had already been taught. They were simply Reinforcing the Truth of God we knew from home. The Gospel was lived out before us by Mom & Dad. When we got sick … we prayed. When we needed something changed … we prayed. When there was no answer … we prayed!

The Call of God that came so clearly to me, was heard because Mom & Dad had paid the way for me to go to Storm Lake … Bible Camp.

You can be sure that their commitment to God for their family, is still affecting the generations of Bougher’s … even those yet to come.
That’s a Spiritual Legacy.

The songs of Mom will never be forgotten because the music continues to play …in our hearts and in our ears. Now the grandkids & great grandkids are singing Grandma’s songs. (Kirk, Kraig, & H.K. III sang at her funeral.)

Don’t get me wrong, we didn’t grow up with superstar parents.

Dad doesn’t have a Superbowl ring and Mom never got a Dove Award – and they never got their picture on the cover of the Evangel or Good Housekeeping, Better Homes & Gardens or even Popular Science.
But they truly deserved that and much, much more.

I know last Wednesday Mom heard a voice she longed to hear, Come Home, Come Home … It’s Suppertime.

On Christmas Eve Jan, my wife, lost her Cousin Rae. I’m not sure what is going on in Heaven, but God just drafted two of the best cooks I know. Maybe Cousin Rae & Vera Mae are collaborating on the Marriage Supper of the Lamb? It Won’t Be Long … then we’ll be leavin’ here.

FYI: Pray for Dad … at 91, he’s lost the love of his life.
Mom & Dad were married 70 years last April!
I know he’s ready for a home-going too.
What a Day that will Be!

P.S. Somebody please pay all of these
song writers for letting me use their titles!

We love you & miss you Mom …& we’ll see you Soon & Very Soon!
Bud, Steve, Jean & Tom

Hey! One last thought from Mom …
Do YOU know Jesus?