essential women

For the Birds

2012-03-02T08:42:00.003-05:00

This is a bird house neighborhood, complete with cottages, mansions, and chapels.

There's no doubt about it--someone's put a lot of thought in to caring for these birds.

In an even bigger way, God puts thought into caring for each of us. He knows our needs, and He meets our needs. He tells us not to worry about what we will eat or what we will wear. He's got us covered. When you are distressed about your circumstances, remember that God has promised to take care of you.

Matthew 6:26

Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

Glorious Spring Flowers in Time Lapse

2012-02-29T19:35:00.003-05:00

If you are ready for Spring, (and aren't we all?) you must watch this. WOW! So beautiful. If you are a flower lover, this will knock your garden boots right off.

We worship an amazing Creator God--the Designer of the rose, among other artistic achievements!
Happy Leap Day and enjoy!

The Life of flowers (Жизнь цветов) from VOROBYOFF PRODUCTION on Vimeo.

A Lenten Parable

2012-02-28T22:42:00.003-05:00

There once was a man walking near the sea when he heard a cry for help from the middle of the water. Someone was clearly in trouble, drowning. Without delay, the man jumped in and swam out to the drowning man. He put his arm around the poor soul and paddled them both to shore.

After coughing up water and catching his breath, the rescued man thanked his rescuer profusely, “Oh, thank you, kind sir. You saved my life. I was as good as dead before you rescued me. Thank you!”

The two of them exchanged names, then parted ways. The whole way home, the rescued man told his story to all he met.  “Listen to me, I almost drowned. I was on my final breath when out of nowhere, I was rescued by a stranger. He saved my life."

After recovering, the saved man decided to pay his rescuer a visit. He tracked down his address. As he approached the rescuer’s home, he realized the power and wealth of his life-saver. His estate was beautiful, manicured and majestic. With curiousity, the rescued man rang the bell. A well-dressed servant opened the gate and responded to the ring of the bell with these words: “Who seeks the King?”

“The K-King?!” the rescued man stuttered as he mumbled his own name. The gate shut. . Only moments later it was opened by his savior himself, dressed in fine robes and radiating majesty. In amazement, the man fell silent.  He was stunned as he realized he had been rescued by the King! His knees hit the ground and he bowed at the feet of the King... for no other response was appropriate.
                                                          ********

The story above is more than fairy tale. It is the story of every life that has come to believe in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin.

This simple story also illustrates the various forms of prayer in our relationship with the King:

At the beginning, the drowning man crying out is petitioning God for help. The prayer of petition is asking God for help for yourself and others. See Ephesians 6:18 and 1 Timothy 2:1-2.

After he is rescued, the saved man offers thanks. The prayer of thanksgiving is our response for God’s gifts to us. See 1 Chronicles 29:10-13 and Psalm 30:11-12.

As the man goes his way, he tells others what God has done for him. Praise is our response to God’s attributes and actions on our behalf. See Psalm 9:1-2. Often times, praise is best expressed in third person. “Let me tell you what God has done...”

When the man realizes the supremacy of his Savior, he forgets about himself and falls down prostrate. Worship is our response to the glory of God. In worship, our prayers change from “help me” and “save me,” to silence, awe, wonder and amazement in the presence of a completely supreme King.

As we draw nearer to God during this Lenten season, we find ourselves less concerned with our own small selves and more enthralled with our big God. May you draw closer as you worship and share your salvation story with others.

Writer's Block

2012-02-25T17:33:00.013-05:00

Starting this blog for Essential Women was a dream of mine. I saw it as a way that we women could build community and keep in touch with one another, in spite of our unique and busy lives. Having been a grief blogger for the past 3 years since my son's death, blogging became a surprisingly effective way to make deep bonds with other women. Some of the most helpful friendships of my life came through responses and comments on my blog, and I felt this might also be a useful tool for our faith community of women.

This Essential Women's blog has been going for about 8 months, but there have only been a couple of comments in that time. I can see from the stats that people are looking at it. To be exact, there have been 2500 page views--205 of them last month. Do you think this blog is helpful to our women? Is it helpful to you? What would make it more useful?

Any thoughts?

Comments please.

A Cup of Sunshine

2012-01-28T11:55:00.003-05:00

So far, so good!

We've had a mild winter here in Virginia Beach, and that's been a blessing to those of us afflicted with SAD. (yeah, I kinda think I'm one of them.) Just in case you are confused by the acronym, SAD stands for "seasonal affective disorder". It's the depression that sets in when it's too cold or too rainy outside and the skies are too gray for too long. Sunshine is the only cure. People who are seriously afflicted with the disorder have to sit under lamps to simulate sunshine, just to make sure they are getting adequate doses of mood-lifting light and vitamin D.

Life can also make people sad. If bad things happen, for too long, without a break, it can also bring on depression. Finding a way through that takes some work, but here's an idea. There is light in the word of God. When we shine it on our disappointments, it helps to lift the discouragement. God's word reminds us that however bad things are, it's not a permanent state. Good is coming, good is promised, and He says it is better than we can possibly imagine. That's a dose of vitamin H--HOPE. And hope is a great antidote to depression. Like sunshine, it lifts our hearts, our souls, and our eyes from these temporary struggles to our big God, and a future made by Him...a blessed future that is everything we've ever dreamed of and more.

John 16:33

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

WOW Bible Study

2012-01-22T09:03:00.002-05:00

WOW stands for Women on Wednesdays, because, interestingly enough, we meet on Wednesday mornings. That's 9:30 - 11:00 am at Essential Church.
We learn together, share our stories, and pray for one another.
You are invited to join us.

Childcare is provided, and a breakfast snack, and friendship on the road of life.

Our current study is "Life Rules" by Andy Stanley, which is basically about loving people even when it's difficult.

Coming next: "Heaven" by Randy Alcorn. What's it like, the place that God has prepared for those who love Him? We are going to find out what the Bible has to say about heaven.

We would love to meet you, so please consider joining us on Wednesdays.
You will only feel like a stranger once. :-)

A New Year

2012-01-07T10:57:00.002-05:00

a new beginning

a new focus

a new decision

a new discipline

a new habit

a new obedience
a new insight

a new mercy

a new hope

Walk through the door and see what new thing God will do in your life this year...

Isaiah 43:19

For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.

Best Christmas Pageant Ever

2011-12-19T12:51:00.004-05:00

Step 1: Get 34 kids in costume and lined up in hallway.

Step 2: Even the ones that would rather not.

Step 3: Get them all lined up on stage and in their proper places. Smile. Grab their attention.

Step 4: Sing "Silent Night" with all the hand motions.

Step 5: Make sure "Mother Mary" is keeping a firm grip on "Baby Jesus".

Success. Smile. Applause.

Step 6: Do it all again with the kids from second service.

Step 7: Make sure they are lined up in order: shepherds, angels, holy family, angels, wise men, barn animals.

Step 8: Give a reassuring smile to "Mother Mary"
who has never held a baby before,

but is doing an excellent job.

Step 9: Begin song.

Step 10: Smile at Wise Man and Lambs who are doing such a nice job with their hand motions.

Step 11: Try not to panic when "Baby Jesus" starts to wiggle.

Step 12: Quickly pass wiggling "Baby Jesus" to "Joseph", just as instructed to do.

Step 13: Give real mother urgent passage to come on stage to hold "Baby Jesus" from behind "Joseph".

Notice crowd visibly relax and exhale.

Smile at worried angel.

Disaster averted.

Step 13: Keep calm and carry on.

Step 14: Take cue from happy musician, laugh and make a joyful noise unto the Lord!

Best Christmas Pageant Ever!

Thanks to exciting baby/mama drama!

Merry Christmas and God Bless Us Everyone.

The Gift of Friendship

2011-12-11T00:05:00.002-05:00

In the Christmas film classic, "It's A Wonderful Life", Clarence the angel tells a distraught George Bailey, "No one who has a friend is truly poor". It's an insightful statement about life, economics, and the sustaining power of friendship, especially in hard times. Friendship can carry us through all the ups and downs of life, and it's definitely cheaper than therapy. We were meant to have friends and be friends to others. Jesus Himself calls us His friends, and there is a vintage hymn entitled, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus". At Christmas time we take care to acknowledge the friends who have stood by us through another year. Give thanks for the friends you have, and let them know how much they mean to you. The spoken or written word saying "thanks for being there for me" means more than a gift could possibly convey.

The "Unopened Gift" Recap

2011-12-04T19:45:00.006-05:00

As with any event, there are months of planning going on behind the scenes, while the event itself only lasts a few hours. In this picture, we were in the last 24 hours of our planning. We were waiting patiently for our guest speaker to arrive. We had a bit of nail-biting, as Tracey Presslor and her best friend, Randee, were delayed on a tarmac in Dallas. Finally, much to our delight, they made it! Only four hours late!

Our greeting team had a wonderful time getting acquainted, and we knew very quickly that we had invited the right woman to speak for us. We had an instant connection with Tracey's warmth, transparency, and humor. You can tell we are having a pretty good time!

Our group shot, from left to right:

Karen, Randee, Erin, Tracey, Ally, Crystal, and JoAnne.

JoAnne found Tracey on facebook when she began following "Aunt Tracey's Walk" after the tragic Joplin, MO tornado. JoAnne contacted her for this event, and when Tracey agreed to come speak for us, we were pretty much speechless. When we met her, we knew it was a "God thing", because we all just "clicked".

Meanwhile, back at the church, we had been getting our Winter Wonderland all set up. Early Friday evening, we finished all the details of our set up, and did the last minute walk-through to make sure it was perfect for our arriving guests. Here is Crystal's hot cocoa bar. Super cute and yummy-licious!

Erin and Barbara, our gifted emcees, were relaxed and ready to go, as evidenced by these big smiles for the cameras.

The room sparkled as Crystal made all the last minute touches.

It's amazing what an artist can do with a little bit of glue, glitter and paper!

This is the corner by the sound booth--it became our dessert bar.

Our talented photographer, Debbie, created this amazing photo booth for group shots. It was definitely a whole lotta fun!

Dawn and her kitchen crew put together the last minute touches like professional caterers. Our delicious salad bar, dessert and beverage tables were a delight. The Ritz couldn't have done a better job!

Bobby and the guys helped out too! It's always great to have someone to do the heavy lifting! They left the kitchen spotless.

Becky and her talented musical team do their final sound check...

Aided by Edwin and Chad, back in the sound booth. Thanks, guys!

All systems are go! Let the festivities begin!

Then the big moment arrived. Women started coming through the doors, and Tricia and Pat were there to greet them!

Chef Dawn gave directions as hungry women approached! (and Ethan gave the reassuring thumbs-up in the background). An hour later, 110 women and various helpers had gone through these buffet lines and had, by all accounts, a most dee-licious dinner!

After dinner, we had an uplifting time of worship, led by Becky and her team.

Becky's smiling mom, Terri, is in the purple dress talking to Debbie. Proud mama, no doubt. Tracey is singing on the right, a moment before going up on stage to give her talk.

Then Tracey came up and told her gripping story. There wasn't a dry eye in the house as we watched the videos of newscasts from those sad days in May when Joplin was demolished by a tornado. She shared about the death of her precious nephew, Will Norton, and the search that ensued for the next week to find him. She shared how her faith in God has carried her through this tragic loss.

Our community has also been struck with deep loss this year, so she had an attuned and appreciative audience. Our key verse for the evening was Romans 8:28, "For we know that all things work together for good for those that love God and are called according to His purpose". It's not easy to see the good in suffering, and Tracey's words were a great model of doing just that. Tracey's courage and hope came shining through.

She said we cannot control much in life, but we can by faith, control what happens to us after death. By trusting Christ to forgive our sins, we can be assured of eternity in Heaven. She also said that when others go to Heaven, and we are left behind, it is because there is something that God wants us to do here, and we need to be open to His purposes. She finished her talk by asking us to keep her Joplin, MO community in prayer as they face their first Christmas with so many bereaved family members. As Tracey left the stage, she got a standing ovation.

As a final reminder of God's grace in suffering, Becky wrapped up the whole talk with her beautiful version of "Blessings" by Laura Story. With tears streaming, I was so captured by that moment that I didn't get a picture. Thank you, Becky, for putting the jewel in the crown on this poignant evening.

Our delightful emcees, Barb and Erin, came back up. After a hug and a slightly weepy transition, followed by expressions of gratitude to Tracey, they put their silly hats back on. More games to play and more prizes to give away before the night was over!

On stage to the right, two of our women vying for a prize.

This is how it looked from the back of the room, with Pat, on the left, carrying a gift basket to the winner, Robin, on the right. A stageful of crazy ladies having fun!

Here are just some of the beautiful gift baskets that Pat prepared for prizes.

The whole evening was a great big gift to everyone who came. It was a beautiful moment to step inside the church, forget the busyness and pressures outside, and just soak in the power of God's love. It was a reminder that some of the "Unopened Gifts" of laughter, faith and friendship can bring deep comfort and hope even in the most difficult times.

Tracey and Randee pose for one last shot before heading back to their hotel. We are so grateful that these two made the journey to Essential for our sakes. Our lives have been changed by their love and generosity. Their souvenir trees will go home with them, a reminder of their loyal friends and fans at Essential Church in Virginia Beach.

2 Cor 1:3-5

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.

Women's Christmas Event

2011-11-27T23:20:00.003-05:00

Coming Friday, December 2, 6:30 pm

Guest Speaker: Tracey Presslor of Joplin, MO

Special Music by Becky Vasquez

Dinner, Dessert, Hot Cocoa Bar, Gifts, Photo Booth

Tickets may be purchased at essentialchurch.tv for $10

Thoughts on Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T23:27:00.005-05:00

	*"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."* *I Thessalonians 5:18*

"Gratitude is the greatest of virtues, in fact, the parent of all other virtues." ~Cicero

"I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder." ~ G.K. Chesterton

"The unthankful heart ... discovers no mercies; but let the thankful heart sweep through the day and, as the magnet finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings!" ~Henry Ward Beecher

"Can you see the holiness in those things you take for granted — a paved road or a washing machine? If you concentrate on finding what is good in every situation, you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude, a feeling that nurtures the soul." ~Rabbi Harold Kushner

"The Pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts. No Americans have been more impoverished than these who, nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving." ~H. U. Westermayer

"We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures." ~Thornton Wilder

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, and confusion into clarity. ... It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow." ~ Melodie Beattie

The beautiful thing about gratitude is that it can be acquired. It is something that can be developed, built, worked on, practiced and obtained. It is a choice we make. We hope your Thanksgiving is full of gratitude for God's faithful care for you.

Enjoy this wonderful day and Happy Thanksgiving from the Women of Essential.

Women's Christmas Event

2011-11-04T16:10:00.004-04:00

Meet Aunt Tracey...this is a cute and silly birthday picture from facebook.

She is our guest speaker for our Women's Christmas Event and she's quite an inspirational person. Don't let the hat and bow fool you...she's got a serious story of faith in suffering to share with us.

Tracey and her husband and sons

Tracey Presslor comes from Joplin, Missouri, the site of the terrible tornadoes that tore the region apart in the Spring. Her family went through a personal ordeal in May when her nephew, Will Norton, was pulled out of the family SUV by a sudden and unexpected tornado on the way home from his high school graduation ceremony. The nation was riveted as everyone searched for this young man, and the tragic story of his death unfolded.

This is Tracey with her parents--Will's grandparents.

Will Norton

Will Norton was an engaging and loveable young man from a solid Christian family. You can see his shiny personality on his video journals on youtube, if you search his name. The Norton Family's heartbreak, faith and perseverance, in the wake of their loss, became public through their facebook page, "Help Us Find Will Norton". His Aunt Tracey started another page called "Aunt Tracey's Walk", where she shares the emotional and spiritual journey they are going through as a family.

This is a picture of Will on May 22, just after receiving his diploma at his Joplin High School graduation.

Why this for a Christmas event? We felt this would be a great topic for the women of our church, as we face the end of a very difficult year, with so many tragedies that have touched the lives of our congregation. We all need encouragement to know that God will be with us even in our darkest valleys. You will be comforted, encouraged, and strengthened by listening to Aunt Tracey talk about her Walk of faith through a storm. We will also have a delicious dinner, gifts and prizes and some beautiful music. It will be an unforgettable night. You can purchase tickets on Sundays at church or through the church website at essentialchurch.tv.

The Unopened Gift
Friday, December 2, 2011
Essential Church Auditorium
Dinner, Prizes, Music
Tickets go on sale Sunday, November 12,
$10 each

Calling All Essential Women

2011-10-26T08:15:00.002-04:00

There's work to be done and we need your help! We need your help in a BIG way. We have a fantastic Women's Christmas Event coming on Friday night, Dec. 2. We need women to help with food preparation and Christmas decorations for the church. Talent is not required, but willing hands and hearts are a necessity. If you would like to be part of the team, please sign up here through the comments link at the bottom, or at the check-in table at church on Sunday. Oh, and did I mention that we NEED you?

We need 25 women to bring one item each for a gourmet salad bar, ex: a large bowl of cut tomatoes, a large bowl of shredded cheese, etc.

We need 20 women to help decorate the auditorium for Christmas and set the tables for the women's event.

Oh, and you can relax... we won't be canning any fruits or vegetables!

How to Love God

2011-10-18T09:19:00.011-04:00

When the Pharisees asked Jesus what was the greatest commandment in the Law, He told them, " 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind." This is the first and great commandment" (Matthew 22:37–38).

This is known as the Shema, something that every Jew would have memorized. Jesus was effectively saying that instead of worrying about which commandments were lesser or greater, get back to this: love God with all of your being, and all of these things will be sorted out. It makes complete sense, doesn't it? Because really if I love the Lord my God with all of my heart, soul, and mind, then I naturally will want to do what He wants me to do.

Jesus then added, "And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets" (verses 39–40).

Loving God and loving others as you want to be loved--these two really sum up the essence of life. It simplifies things to honestly ask ourselves, "Am I loving God with everything in me? Am I loving those around me the way He wants me to?" The answer to those two questions will determine if we are loving God.

The Book

2011-10-12T08:24:00.003-04:00

It's not news that life brings difficulties. You don't have to be on this planet long before realizing it's gonna hurt sometimes. Big hurts. Big disappointments. Big tears.

That's why we need a source of comfort...a place of truth to give direction and wisdom when we are lost. God's word is that place. There is something in it for every moment in life. For every crossroads. For every loss. For every defeat.

For every person.

Open the book and find your way again.

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Psalm 19

Meet Pat Storminger

2011-09-29T10:44:00.003-04:00

This bright-eyed lady with the kind smile is Pat Storminger. She leads our women's ministry here at the church, keeping us on track with studies and events to meet the needs of our women. You may have seen her at the check-in table on Sunday mornings, or preparing delicious pulled pork for our church picnics.

This is the first in a series of interviews with some of the women who serve us, so we can all get to know one another on a bit deeper level.

Q: Tell us a little about your background, Pat. How did you get to Virginia Beach?

I am a native of VA due to my father being in the military. I was born in Norfolk, VA and moved to Virginia Beach in my junior year of high school. My graduating class was the first at the brand new Kempsville High School.

Q: How about your family?

I am happily married to Fred for 33 years now. Wow, how time flies when you are having fun. Fred has worked for UPS for 34 yrs and is so looking forward to retirement. We have 2 beautiful daughters who have just added to our lives. Ashey is our oldest and is married with 2 kids. She works outside the home, so I am needed a lot. Sarah our youngest works at CBN and is involved with Community Theater.

My daughter, Ashey, blessed us with our 1^st granddaughter, Madeline McKenzie. I didn't want the normal name of grandma, so I decided I wanted to be called "Big Mama".Of course, what came out of Madeline’s mouth was “Biggie”, I loved it. We are now known as Poppie & Biggie. Then we added a grandson, Logan a few years later. Time has gone by and they are now both in school full time, so I am filling my time with other things. I am still available to watch them as needed. Sometimes we have sleep-overs just because!

Q: What are your interests? What kind of work have you done?

My longest employment was for a bathing suit shop at the beach that specialized in custom swimsuits. When you want a swimsuit go to Meg’s Swimwear on 31^st. She has one of the largest selections of suits and other fun things like SHOES!!! Check it out sometime. As I worked around the area in the retail world it brought about a lot of friendships.

I ended my working career as a receptionist for a financial planning company. Then I took on my most challenging role of all-GRANDPARENT!!!!

As for hobbies, I have tried my hand at scrapbooking but just can’t spend that much time sitting still. My husband and I love to go antique shopping, or looking, I should say. I have gotten to that point in my life where I am downsizing. I spend a lot of time in my yard and help out in the garden. We have chickens so I do help take care of them.

My family is my main interest. My dad and mom instilled family values very early in my life. We did not have relatives nearby (TX) so neighbors and church members became like family. That is exactly how I feel about Essential Church. We are just like one big family helping and caring for one another.

Q: Tell us about your hopes for the women of Essential.

I have a desire to see the Women of Essential have a meaningful relationship with God and each other. I grew up in Church and had a lot of women as role models. I saw the ladies just jump right into roles of Sunday School teachers, VBS teachers and anything in between. My mother was my biggest role model. I saw her live her life with a servant’s heart. Not only to her family but anyone she came in contact with. I have always been a doer at church. I was privileged to have helped start a women’s ministry at a church we attended. God has placed many a woman with a servant’s heart in my path. Even today he has brought many wonderful women my way that I have been longing to have in my life.

I really like being a part of a church that feels ALIVE because I have been in some not-so-alive churches. I just want the opportunity to help other women attain that feeling that they know God is in their lives and they can pass the blessings they receive onto other women. The Lord commands that of us as Christians. My hope is that God shines through me to those around me. Thank you for letting me serve you!

God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble ~Psalm 46:1

Washing the Dishes

2011-09-27T09:51:00.000-04:00

We all blow it occasionally. In a moment of weakness we say the wrong thing, close the door with a slam, raise our voice, or partake in some "stinking thinking". Like dirty dishes stacking up in the sink, we allow these sins to stack up in our hearts, making a mess of a beautiful place. Psalm 103:14 says, "For He knows what we are made of, remembering that we are dust". God is not surprised by our mistakes or failures, and He feels compassion for us. But He also doesn't take sin lightly, so we shouldn't either. Sins left unconfessed become habits. Before we know it, we are blind to the effects of our sin and rationalize it away as nothing. Our hearts and relationships are weighted down by the mess within. Just as it's difficult to work in a messy kitchen, it's also difficult to function with a messy heart.

Honor your relationship with God by acknowledging your mistakes quickly. Call them what He calls them: sin. Accept His gracious forgiveness. Ask for His help to overcome, then trust Him to help you continue to keep your heart clean.

Surely you desire integrity in the inner self, and you teach me wisdom deep within. Psalm 51:6

Autumn Casserole--YUM!

2011-09-24T10:28:00.002-04:00

Classic Chicken Tettrazine Recipe from Southern Living

Total: 55 Minutes

Ingredients

1 1/2 (8-oz.) packages vermicelli
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups milk
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons chicken bouillon granules
1 teaspoon seasoned pepper
2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
4 cups diced cooked chicken
1 (6-oz.) jar sliced mushrooms, drained
3/4 cup slivered almonds

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Prepare pasta according to package directions.
2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a Dutch oven over low heat; whisk in flour until smooth. Cook 1 minute, whisking constantly. Gradually whisk in milk and wine; cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, 8 to 10 minutes or until mixture is thickened and bubbly. Whisk in bouillon granules, seasoned pepper, and 1 cup Parmesan cheese.
3. Remove from heat; stir in diced cooked chicken, sliced mushrooms, and hot cooked pasta.
4. Spoon mixture into a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish; sprinkle with slivered almonds and remaining 1 cup Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake at 350° for 35 minutes or until bubbly.

Southern Living

Autumn Days

2011-09-23T12:21:00.001-04:00

Are you ready for the trees to change, the smell of cider in your kitchen, and pumpkins stacked by the door?

For al fresco dinners, and bonfires, and apple pie slathered in cream?

Are you ready for cozy moon-lit Fall nights, and costumed children at your door?

Light a candle and fill your house with the scents of Autumn. Watch God's beautiful tapestry of reds and golds and greens unfold.

Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn.
~Elizabeth Lawrence

New Women's Bible Study

2011-09-12T13:07:00.001-04:00

WOW--Women on Wednesdays open to any and all women
We meet on, uhh, Wednesdays at the church, 9:30 am till 11 am. Continental breakfast. Childcare provided.
The first Wednesday of the month is special, just for the fun of it. We work on a simple craft project and listen to a variety of speakers talk on a variety of subjects. It's our chance to just get to know one another without too much structure.

Finishing "Crazy Love" and moving on to Andy Stanley's "Five Things".

Please join us!!

Baptism Sunday at the Beach

2011-09-05T09:26:00.003-04:00

This was our last Beach Sunday of the summer. I love church at the beach and always wish it didn't have to end. This was also our last baptism of the summer, and four people came to be baptized. In this picture, everyone comes down to the water in anticipation and gets their cameras ready.

Our "bookend" pastors, Joe and Bobby, almost look like father and son, as they prepare to baptize people.

The group gathers for prayer.

Into the cold water.

Walking in with the support of friends, as some rather large waves advance.

Dunk!

Hug.
It's that easy!

The cameras click and we all watch on in wonder as three others in the crowd step forward and ask to be baptized.

After his own baptism, Ethan's got a great big grin on his face as he watches the new people being baptized.

We finished off our wonderful morning with a prayer circle.

We are grateful for God's mercy and love for each of us.
Unbeknownst to us as we pray, two other people are on their way to be baptized, and God is preparing one more heart, that of a teenage girl on the beach, who is watching all of this.

The group heads back to our pavillion for lunch.

Everyone is hungry and we can smell the yummy barbecue smoke in the air.

Our Essential Tribe.

God bless the men who bbq in the hot sun. They are the true saints among us.

Let the eating begin. Sherry organized 8 separate food tables so there was little waiting in line. As usual, all the potluck contributions were delish!

Gourmet burgers, dogs and pulled pork.

Here is the healthy table--notice all the fruits and veggies. The chips have been relegated to their own table!

I am glad to see all the healthy eaters, (especially my granddaughter)!

Our Essential pavillion during lunch.
It's such a nice shady spot to share a meal and the blessing of friendship.

While the rest of us are eating, Pastor Bobby and Joe are down at the beach, baptizing two late arrivals, and the teen girl who watched it all from the beach, who walked up to them and told them, "I need to be saved".
Yeah, it was that kind of day. From four baptisms to ten, in one hour, and the Bible says at these moments there is joy in Heaven. I felt it too.
That's one of the reasons why it's so hard to say goodbye to Summer Sundays at the Beach.

Youth Mission--Knoxville, TN

2011-08-29T23:55:00.000-04:00

Last month, something amazing happened to me. I went along on mission with our youth group. We drove ten hours to Tennessee to work with Operation Backyard. This organization repairs the homes of needy people for free, using volunteer labor and materials purchased by donors. I went along as the cook for our exuberant group of 30 high and middle schoolers and leaders. I had never done such a thing before, but I knew they would need some healthy food to fuel their efforts. I packed my good knife and cutting board, my apron and my pillow, and headed out the door, driving through VA, NC and through the Appalachian Mountains into TN.

My daughter Jaime (front right) was a chaperone/project manager, and my three granddaughters and their friends were part of the crew. They were all the incentive I needed to make this trek. I wanted to be there for whatever they needed. Their team prepped and painted this house for a wheel-chair bound man, whom you can just barely see in the frame of the door.

They climbed the roof to scrape under the eaves. They, of course, had never done such a thing before.

They painted while balancing themselves on top of ladders. No mattresses underneath to catch them if they fell.

They contended with dust flakes from old paint. It had been many, many years since this nearly 100 year-old house had been painted.

Days and days of back-breaking work in 95 degree temperatures. Never a complaint.

Meanwhile, the second half of our team was in another part of town, re-roofing another house. Yup, our high schoolers just ripped off the old roof and completely replaced it with a new one.

They were also up in the stratosphere, climbing around like pros.

They nailed hundreds of new shingles on to the roof, guided by a roofing professional from our church.

After being in the hot sun day after day, one wonderful night they got a refreshing cool-down in the fountains of Knoxville's World's Fair Park.

Back at our host church, we all slept on the floor and the girls did so, also without complaint. These are my roomies. They made me laugh. Lots.

Here they are the next morning, eating the breakfast that I got up at 5:15am to prepare, so they could leave for the job at 7am each day. I had never cooked repeatedly for this size of crowd, but loved every minute of it. Spaghetti, pulled pork, stuffed potatoes, baked chicken, french toast, turkey bacon, mexican scrambled eggs. The usual. They were exuberant and grateful. These kids were such an encouragement to me.

Here is our incredible team of leaders and chaperones. They prayed, counselled, encouraged and lead by example. They all hammered and scraped and painted right alongside of the kids. And laughed. Lots of that.

All done with their labor of love, the kids take a picture with the homeowner. See that neat roof behind them? They couldn't have been more proud if they had just won a league championship.

Our second group, also smiling from ear to ear. It feels really good to help people...
Who knew?

With the work done, we headed to Pastor Steve's parents' house at gorgeous Lake Norris in TN. A day and half of lake swimming and jet skiing--such a nice refreshing drink after a a job well done.

Two of my granddaughters and a friend are waiting for morning devotions to start. This was the highlight of each day. I loved hearing how God was working on the hearts of these kids.

Pastor Bobby led us in a tender time of sharing thoughts and experiences. Each one answered the question, "Where did you see Jesus this week?". I, of course, saw Him in each of these loving, giving kids.

Praying together.

A final photo before heading home.
This group was so bonded, so full of love and joy, and high on what they had just accomplished. I felt so privileged to be part of this team, and so proud of our kids for all that they had done.
This is an amazing group of kids and leaders, and I am excited to see how they will rock the world next summer!

~~Karen Johnson

New Bible Study for WOW

2011-07-10T14:47:00.001-04:00

Back Cover: "God is love. Crazy, relentless, all-powerful love. Have you ever wondered if we're missing it? It's crazy, if you think about it. The God of the universe—the Creator of nitrogen and pine needles, galaxies and E-minor—loves us with a radical, unconditional, self-sacrificing love."

WOW (Women on Wednesdays) begins a new study this week, July 13. It is a video and discussion series based on Francis Chan's Crazy Love. It meets in the children's church from 9:30-11:00 am. Childcare is provided. Contact Melissa Swisher (971-8719) or Karen Johnson (808 298-9593) if you have questions.

New Bible Study Begins

2011-06-17T12:54:00.000-04:00

Duty or Delight? Knowing where you stand with God – This Bible study for women focuses on six foundational truths found in Ephesians 1:3-23. Tammy speaks to participants about the struggles and spiritual insecurities that women face in their Christian walk due to the unmet needs from earthly relationships. She teaches us how to experience God’s delight in our lives and gives us insight on how to overcome the challenges of duty based living.

Contact: Tricia Toney 2littlolme@cox.net 430-8167(H), 642-2123(C)

When: BEGINS Tuesday June 21 @ 6:30 pm

Where: Home of Maria Watson, 2669 Edgehill Avenue, Virginia Beach

No Childcare.

For more info, you can find Tammie Head talking about this study on youtube.

Summer Fun

2011-06-16T09:56:00.001-04:00

What are you doing this summer? Would you like some company from women who share your interests? We are trying to connect likeminded women for some summer fun. Several categories and life stages come to mind: moms of babies, moms of toddlers, single moms, women interested in joining a book club, women who would like to beach it together, women who like to run, women who like to work out, women who garden, women who like to scrapbook or do crafts, etc.

If you would like to informally organize something, just give us the info so we can publicize it here. For example: "Mom's and Toddlers Beach Day, Thursdays at the Oceanfront, near the King Neptune statue, 10am to noon, pack snacks and beach gear. " (Yeah, don't show up on Thursday...this is just an example!)

The Strawberry Festival Parade

2011-06-14T16:46:00.003-04:00

Our group arrived early to decorate the truck and trailer for the parade on May 28, 2011. This was our 3rd time to be in the parade.

Pastor Bobby and Sarah staple bags of candy to Essential cards to give away to the crowd.

Melissa smiles while also trying to corral her three youngsters and keep cool in the 85 degree weather.

Adam, Justin and Joe tune up their guitars.

J-man looks around for his guitar.

Bedecked in flags, balloons and crepe paper splendor.

Stephanie and Baby M are ready to roll.

It was a hot day. Water bottles and head bands were the appropriate accessories.

Yeah, he's cool.

The final touches go on the truck.

Wagons are in position.

Drew keeps an eye on the wigglers in the truck bed

Big A helps Papa Joe with his ukulele.

Sarah and Stephanie--perhaps wondering if we can pull it all together.

Stephanie and Melissa ready to go.

Drew gives some much needed support with tired kids.

The Group Shot. We did it!
Now down the street to the waiting audience. Here we goooo!

"My Ordinary, His Extraordinary" Women's Event

2011-06-10T18:55:00.100-04:00

Crystal and her team are setting up the room for our first big women's event held on Friday, May 20. We sold over 100 tickets for the event and we were thrilled at the huge response.

The banner on the back wall of the auditorium read, "Everyday Extraordinary".

Looking down on one of the cute table settings from up on the ladder.

Back down on the floor, the whole room looked Springtime festive.

Each table had its own cheerful color scheme.

The stage was lit with fresh tulips.

Flowers everywhere! Such a great setting for a great night.

Here Becky Vasquez leads us in an incredible time of worship. Justin and some of the other guys filled out the worship band, in exchange for free dinner. We all enjoyed this beautiful time of reflection.

You can almost hear the voices singing.

Our guest speaker, Polly Boyette, was hilarious. She told us one funny story after another, all of which expressed her message that God can use any ordinary woman to do extraordinary things for Him.

Polly's anchor verse for her message was:

Romans 12:1

Take your everyday, ordinary life—

your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—

and place it before God as an offering.

It was an inspiring and encouraging evening for all of us.