Today I had lunch with a good friend. Afterwards, I was on the way to drop off at her house, when my cell phone rang. It was a # I didn't recognize, but I always answer because I never know whose phone my kids might use.
It wasn't one of my kids.
I kid u not, this guy says this is _____ with Fuddrucker's, then asked for me by name.
He then explained that he was drawing business cards for the free meals of the month at Fuddruckers. I didn't hang up, because I did drop a business card there, last time I ate at Fudd's.
He said he noticed I'm a songwriter, and asked if I ever need anyone to sing my songs!
His story goes on like this: they're cutting my hours, and I'm looking for ways to make some money on the side!!
He said he used to sing, and his voice is coming back. And as a matter of fact, that he was in the mood to sing!!!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
...and He will lift you up
We've been studying James in Sunday School. Last week's lesson was on humility, and I ran across this list in my Bible today:
Characteristics of a proud, unbroken spirit as compared to a humble, broken spirit:
1. Proud people focus on the failures of others.
Broken people are overwhelmed with the sense of their own spiritual need.
2. Proud people are seIf-righteous- have a critical, fault-finding spirit looking at everyone else’s faults with a microscope but their own with a telescope. They look down on others.
Broken people are compassionate. They can forgive much because they know how much they have been forgiven. They think the best of others and esteem all others better themselves.
3. Proud people have an independent, self-sufficient spirit.
Broken people have a dependent spirit and recognize their need for others.
4. Proud people have to prove that they are right.
Broken people are willing to yield the right to be right.
5. Proud people claim rights and have demanding spirit.
Broken people yield their rights and have a meek spirit.
6. Proud people are self-protective of their time and their rights and their reputation.
Broken people are self-denying.
7. Proud people desire to be served.
Broken people are motivated to serve others.
8. Proud people desire to be a success.
Broken people are motivated to be faithful and make others successful.
9. Proud people desire for self-advancement.
Broken people desire to promote others.
10. Proud people have a drive to be recognized and appreciated and are wounded when others are promoted and they are overlooked.
Broken people have a sense of their own unworthiness and are thrilled that God would use them at all in any ministry, they are eager to give others the credit and they rejoice when others are lifted up.
11. Proud people have a sub conscious feeling this ministry is privileged to have me and my gifts and they think of what they can do for God.
Broken people have a heart attitude that says I don’t deserve to have any part in this ministry and they have nothing to offer to God, but the life of Jesus flowing through their broken lives.
12. Proud people feel confident in how much they know.
Broken people are humbled by how very much they have to learn.
13. Proud people are self conscious.
Broken people are not concerned with self at all.
14. Proud people keep others at arm’s length.
Broken people are willing to risk getting close to others and loving intimately.
15. Proud people are quick to blame others.
Broken people accept personal responsibility and can see where they were wrong in a situation.
16. Proud people are unapproachable.
Broken people are easy to be entreated.
17. Proud people are defensive when criticized.
Broken people receive criticism with an open, humble Spirit.
18. Proud people are concerned with being respectable and what others think and working to protect their own image and reputation.
Broken people are concerned with being real what they care about is what God knows and are willing to die to their own reputation.
19. Proud people find it difficult to share their spiritual needs with others.
Broken people are willing to be open and transparent with others as God directs.
20. Proud people want to be sure that no one knows they have sinned to cover up.
Broken people are willing to be exposed because they have nothing to lose.
21. Proud people have a hard time In saying, “I was wrong, will you forgive me.”
Broken people are quick to admit their failures and seek forgiveness when necessary.
22. Proud people in confessing their sins, tend to deal in generalities.
Broken people are able to deal with the specific conviction of God’s spirit.
23. Proud people fear consequences of their sin.
Broken people are grieved over the cause the root of their sin.
24. Proud people are remorseful they got found out.
Broken people are repentant over their sin which is evidenced by the fact they forsake them
25. Proud people when misunderstood in relationships, wait for the other one to come and ask for forgiveness.
Broken people take the initiative to see if they can get to the Cross first no matter how wrong the other may have been.
26. Proud people compare themselves with others and feel worthy of honor.
Broken people compare themselves with the holiness of God and feel a desperate need for mercy.
27. Proud people are blind to their real heart condition.
Broken people walk in the light.
28. Proud people think they have nothing to be repentant of.
Broken people realize that they have a need of a continual heart attitude of repentance.
29. Proud people are unbroken and don’t think they need revival, but they are sure everyone else does.
Broken people continually sense their need for a fresh encounter with God for a fresh filling of His Holy Spirit.
Food for Thought:
Luke 18:13-14 And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Romans 12:16
Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.
James 4:6
But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
James 4:10
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
1 Peter 5:5 Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
Characteristics of a proud, unbroken spirit as compared to a humble, broken spirit:
1. Proud people focus on the failures of others.
Broken people are overwhelmed with the sense of their own spiritual need.
2. Proud people are seIf-righteous- have a critical, fault-finding spirit looking at everyone else’s faults with a microscope but their own with a telescope. They look down on others.
Broken people are compassionate. They can forgive much because they know how much they have been forgiven. They think the best of others and esteem all others better themselves.
3. Proud people have an independent, self-sufficient spirit.
Broken people have a dependent spirit and recognize their need for others.
4. Proud people have to prove that they are right.
Broken people are willing to yield the right to be right.
5. Proud people claim rights and have demanding spirit.
Broken people yield their rights and have a meek spirit.
6. Proud people are self-protective of their time and their rights and their reputation.
Broken people are self-denying.
7. Proud people desire to be served.
Broken people are motivated to serve others.
8. Proud people desire to be a success.
Broken people are motivated to be faithful and make others successful.
9. Proud people desire for self-advancement.
Broken people desire to promote others.
10. Proud people have a drive to be recognized and appreciated and are wounded when others are promoted and they are overlooked.
Broken people have a sense of their own unworthiness and are thrilled that God would use them at all in any ministry, they are eager to give others the credit and they rejoice when others are lifted up.
11. Proud people have a sub conscious feeling this ministry is privileged to have me and my gifts and they think of what they can do for God.
Broken people have a heart attitude that says I don’t deserve to have any part in this ministry and they have nothing to offer to God, but the life of Jesus flowing through their broken lives.
12. Proud people feel confident in how much they know.
Broken people are humbled by how very much they have to learn.
13. Proud people are self conscious.
Broken people are not concerned with self at all.
14. Proud people keep others at arm’s length.
Broken people are willing to risk getting close to others and loving intimately.
15. Proud people are quick to blame others.
Broken people accept personal responsibility and can see where they were wrong in a situation.
16. Proud people are unapproachable.
Broken people are easy to be entreated.
17. Proud people are defensive when criticized.
Broken people receive criticism with an open, humble Spirit.
18. Proud people are concerned with being respectable and what others think and working to protect their own image and reputation.
Broken people are concerned with being real what they care about is what God knows and are willing to die to their own reputation.
19. Proud people find it difficult to share their spiritual needs with others.
Broken people are willing to be open and transparent with others as God directs.
20. Proud people want to be sure that no one knows they have sinned to cover up.
Broken people are willing to be exposed because they have nothing to lose.
21. Proud people have a hard time In saying, “I was wrong, will you forgive me.”
Broken people are quick to admit their failures and seek forgiveness when necessary.
22. Proud people in confessing their sins, tend to deal in generalities.
Broken people are able to deal with the specific conviction of God’s spirit.
23. Proud people fear consequences of their sin.
Broken people are grieved over the cause the root of their sin.
24. Proud people are remorseful they got found out.
Broken people are repentant over their sin which is evidenced by the fact they forsake them
25. Proud people when misunderstood in relationships, wait for the other one to come and ask for forgiveness.
Broken people take the initiative to see if they can get to the Cross first no matter how wrong the other may have been.
26. Proud people compare themselves with others and feel worthy of honor.
Broken people compare themselves with the holiness of God and feel a desperate need for mercy.
27. Proud people are blind to their real heart condition.
Broken people walk in the light.
28. Proud people think they have nothing to be repentant of.
Broken people realize that they have a need of a continual heart attitude of repentance.
29. Proud people are unbroken and don’t think they need revival, but they are sure everyone else does.
Broken people continually sense their need for a fresh encounter with God for a fresh filling of His Holy Spirit.
Food for Thought:
Luke 18:13-14 And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Romans 12:16
Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.
James 4:6
But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
James 4:10
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
1 Peter 5:5 Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Q&A's re: being a songwriting mama
I've recently had some questions trickling in, and a friend told me I should just blog about some of it. My walk with God has had some unexpected bends in the road, as He has led me into a songwriting ministry. I will try to address a few things in this note...hope this helps!!! :)
Q: Why don't you make a CD?
A: God hasn't put that on my heart. My desire is to honor God with the words of my heart and the meditation of my heart. Sometimes I work on the music, too, but I'm really not a vocalist. Fine in the choir, maybe. Ha.
Q: How do you write online?
A: Pray! Pray! Pray! We need the Lord to meet with us, in each and every co-writing session! Then we use Email, Instant Messaging, Facebook, GoogleDocs, Myspace, and even texting! Sometimes it's all of the above along with long phone calls! Or leaving messages on each other's phones, when we can't get to the computer to record an idea ;)
Q: How do you find time to write?
A: How do you find time to breathe? OK, so that's not a fair question, but it's similar. There's such an awareness of the songwriting "part" of me that it's almost a reflex. I rarely say "oh, I think I'll write a song today" just as we don't say "oh, I think I'll inhale today." It's a response to life, and at the same time, a release. It comes and goes like a breath of fresh air. But when I have a co-writing appointment, I get antsy and nervous and lack confidence. Our confidence must be in the Lord, that we are following His call. It's like He whispers in my ear: Child, in all humility, stand tall.
Q: Have you written a song for each of your nine kids?
A: That's in the process. December Rain was inspired by Stephen's birth on 9/11/01. Then when Liz left for a semester in Niger, I wrote Brave Heart. Ruth's graduation from high school launched Eyes of Blue. I do some others in the works, but it's better to wait til they're ready to share. Some are more of a comic relief than anything. Someday I'll share! I did write a lyric for my grandson, Jacob, called I Choose You, but the music isn't finished. Oh, and there's a Mama song, called Holiday from Being Mama that Mitch Townley & I wrote...we should finish that!
Q: Did your parents write songs? How about your kids?
A: My parents always had a song in their hearts. I miss my Dad...He went to be with the Lord in '07. Moma still sings to my kids on the phone. I have such a precious heritage, and I'm thankful for that! Hmmmm...the kids...the older ones seem to have a deep appreciation for my attempts to write. The younger ones? I think they're confused. The other day we were in a store and they heard an old classic song and one said to the other, "Don't sing so loud." To that, the little singer said, "We can sing it as loud as we want to...cuz Mom wrote that!" I do hope they will write, whether it's songs, books, poetry, journals, blogs, facebook statuses...the list goes on!
Q: Where can I buy your songs?
A: While I do offer a few free songs if you sign up as a fan @
http://www.evawilsonmusic.com
And there are some others that are available for purchase:
In the Second Baptist North Campus Bookstore:
*Andrea C Parker's cd,
including Carpenter's Clue, Let Us Pray, & December Rain
*James Eric Myers' demo cd,
including I Will Sing, No Regrets, Holding Me, I Hunger
Own Me ~ Splendorleaf (co-written w/Ian Ferrin)
Calling On You ~ Splendorleaf (co-written w/Brandon Hixson)
Let Us Pray ~ Andrea C Parker (co-written w/Yvonne Utz)
Carpenter's Clue ~ Andrea C Parker (co-written w/Andrea & Edwin Parker)
December Rain ~ Andrea C Parker (co-written w/ Mitch Townley & Stephen Miller)
I Will Sing, No Regrets, Holding Me, & I Hunger (co-written w/ James Eric Myers)
Stephanie Raymond picked up Own Me (co-written w/Ian Ferrin) & Me and Faith Hill
Q: Why don't you make a CD?
A: God hasn't put that on my heart. My desire is to honor God with the words of my heart and the meditation of my heart. Sometimes I work on the music, too, but I'm really not a vocalist. Fine in the choir, maybe. Ha.
Q: How do you write online?
A: Pray! Pray! Pray! We need the Lord to meet with us, in each and every co-writing session! Then we use Email, Instant Messaging, Facebook, GoogleDocs, Myspace, and even texting! Sometimes it's all of the above along with long phone calls! Or leaving messages on each other's phones, when we can't get to the computer to record an idea ;)
Q: How do you find time to write?
A: How do you find time to breathe? OK, so that's not a fair question, but it's similar. There's such an awareness of the songwriting "part" of me that it's almost a reflex. I rarely say "oh, I think I'll write a song today" just as we don't say "oh, I think I'll inhale today." It's a response to life, and at the same time, a release. It comes and goes like a breath of fresh air. But when I have a co-writing appointment, I get antsy and nervous and lack confidence. Our confidence must be in the Lord, that we are following His call. It's like He whispers in my ear: Child, in all humility, stand tall.
Q: Have you written a song for each of your nine kids?
A: That's in the process. December Rain was inspired by Stephen's birth on 9/11/01. Then when Liz left for a semester in Niger, I wrote Brave Heart. Ruth's graduation from high school launched Eyes of Blue. I do some others in the works, but it's better to wait til they're ready to share. Some are more of a comic relief than anything. Someday I'll share! I did write a lyric for my grandson, Jacob, called I Choose You, but the music isn't finished. Oh, and there's a Mama song, called Holiday from Being Mama that Mitch Townley & I wrote...we should finish that!
Q: Did your parents write songs? How about your kids?
A: My parents always had a song in their hearts. I miss my Dad...He went to be with the Lord in '07. Moma still sings to my kids on the phone. I have such a precious heritage, and I'm thankful for that! Hmmmm...the kids...the older ones seem to have a deep appreciation for my attempts to write. The younger ones? I think they're confused. The other day we were in a store and they heard an old classic song and one said to the other, "Don't sing so loud." To that, the little singer said, "We can sing it as loud as we want to...cuz Mom wrote that!" I do hope they will write, whether it's songs, books, poetry, journals, blogs, facebook statuses...the list goes on!
Q: Where can I buy your songs?
A: While I do offer a few free songs if you sign up as a fan @
http://www.evawilsonmusic.com
And there are some others that are available for purchase:
In the Second Baptist North Campus Bookstore:
*Andrea C Parker's cd,
including Carpenter's Clue, Let Us Pray, & December Rain
*James Eric Myers' demo cd,
including I Will Sing, No Regrets, Holding Me, I Hunger
Own Me ~ Splendorleaf (co-written w/Ian Ferrin)
Calling On You ~ Splendorleaf (co-written w/Brandon Hixson)
Let Us Pray ~ Andrea C Parker (co-written w/Yvonne Utz)
Carpenter's Clue ~ Andrea C Parker (co-written w/Andrea & Edwin Parker)
December Rain ~ Andrea C Parker (co-written w/ Mitch Townley & Stephen Miller)
I Will Sing, No Regrets, Holding Me, & I Hunger (co-written w/ James Eric Myers)
Stephanie Raymond picked up Own Me (co-written w/Ian Ferrin) & Me and Faith Hill
Saturday, June 20, 2009
April 2009 Trip to Nashville
I can't believe it has taken me 2 months to write about this trip, but, as they say, better late than never!
Back in April, I had the opportunity to go to Nashville for some co-writing sessions and to attend the Dove Awards. Every detail fell into place as Barry and I considered the trip. I'm so thankful that he sees that songwriting is a ministry, and not just a little hobby on the side. Oh, and Barry didn't argue when my friend Jeannie offered to take me to the airport at 5:30am!!!! God has surrounded me with great people.
It was an uneventful flight, then, after renting my car, I headed to my first writing session. I had good directions. I had the map. Gotta love google maps! Perfect directions, usually. Easy to follow, usually. But I blinked. Missed a turn.
I should have known I'd gone too far when I got to Henpeck Lane. Right before my eyes: Henpeck Market. I kid you not! I don't even wanna go there!!! Not even!!! (Henpecking is one of my pet peeves...I guess I'll blog about that someday!!)
I found myself looking at the bright side: Getting lost with a cell phone is better than getting lost without a cell phone. Made the call. Turned around. Easily found the studio.
Writing with Benton Stokes & Dennis Dearing was a huge blessing. We sat and visited for a few minutes, then talked about how the Lord has been at work. The song quickly unfolded, and within a few hours, the guys were recording the worktape. I love love love the song. It's for Benton's next project. I can't wait to hear the new cd....someday! Such a joy to work with them. Sweet times...the Stokes/Dearing/Wilson writing session was brilliant hahaha...seriously, God met with us...it was awesome to see Him at work. By the way, we met briefly last October at an awesome workshop called Write About Jesus.
You're in for a treat as you listen to songs from Benton's last cd
http://www.shoutlife.com/bentonstokes Great stuff! With more to come!
At http://www.menacemusic.net you can see the studio where we wrote...I was sitting near the computer :) Small world: Dennis' nephew was in the Sunday School class I taught in the late 80's!!!!
We went to lunch at Pancho's place in Franklin, then called it a day. Still needed a bridge for the song, but we'd have to write the rest on the phone or online!
I left there to go check into my room. Ended up calling my friend Andrea because I couldn't find the hotel. She's my remote GPS :) And, as always, she helped me find my way. It would help if businesses were required to post their street number, like in the good ol' days. ha. Sometimes you can go many blocks without any indication of what block number you're in! And huge neon signs would help, instead of those that comply to city specifications, no? I was driving around in circles, but it was the wrong circle. Haha
Then I headed to Green Hills Mall, to meet a JP & Irene Williams. But I got lost again. And my printout of Google maps didn't help. They'd left out one tiny detail, which sent me into downtown Nashville. I knew I needed help when I saw Music Row.
About that time, a new artist friend called me from Hope, Arkansas, asking for the lyrics to "Watch Over Me" and just thinking about Psalm 121 helped calm my nerves. I gave her my username & password so she could download anything her group needed for the studio. If my account is ever hacked, I'll know where to find her!
So, then I called JP and got directions to the mall. Drove around in circles, then found it! They were waiting patiently at Panera Bread, and we had a great visit. We aren't sure how we found each other online, but I'm thankful they are my friends. Everyone should read their story. They are both musicians, and excellent writers, but best of all, they are best of friends! I loved seeing their heart for God. So special!
www.jpwilliams.net & www.theblondeleadingtheblind.wordpress.com
BTW, Green Hills Mall is THE place to meet people. I will have to remember that for next time. Just a few doors down, I met with Dean Newkirk, just to hear what the Lord's been doing in his life. I enjoyed getting to know Dean's ministry. Seems like most of our sentences kept ending with "only God could do that!" Don't ya just love God? Check out Dean's group @ http://www.myspace.com/encountermusic
Then I tagged along as he went to check out something new at the Apple store. I picked out my MacBookPro. It will certainly be a dinosaur by the time I decide to buy it in 2020, when our last child graduates from high school. :)
On the way back to my hotel, I was very grateful for unlimited miles on the rental car. I didn't see any signs saying "Welcome to Georgia", but I think maybe I crossed a few county lines!!!
I did find my way, no thanks to my GPS friend, Andrea, ahem, cuz she didn't answer the phone. Yes, I'm bitter, but better for it! OK, so a person does have to sleep, sometime, right? I forgive her. Just this once! I pulled over on the side of the highway, prayed, and after looking at the map again, decided to turn around. Thank You, Lord!!!
Next day, bright and early, I went to Alison Stevens' house for a co-writing session.. Alison & I met at IndieHeaven's CIA Summit a few yrs ago. What a precious heart!!! Not only did we have a special day, writing, reflecting on God's goodness and awesomeness and all, but we also loved on her little baby girl, Jaden. Jaden stole my heart...she's the same age as our grandson, Jacob, and the Lord knew I needed a baby-fix!!! I love love love the song we wrote, too. We'll share when the time is right (and we fill in the blank on that one phrase!)...worth the wait!!!
http://www.indieheaven.com/artists/alisonstevens
That afternoon, I met Benton for a quick bite to eat at the OpryLand Mall. We talked about our love for God, our families, ministry, music, and, yes, Tennessee! Then we walked across the street to the Dove Awards. There was no way to prepare myself for the evening. The music was excellent, and the evening was filled with surprises. There was a tribute to Dottie Rambo, and various artists filled the stage, singing songs she had written. I was glad to see Larnelle Harris, and called Barry so he could hear Larnelle singing "Oh Happy Day" :)
And, oh, yes...Natalie Grant was awesome...here's a shot from the balcony:
But, wow, the awards ceremony was more worshipful for me than I'd expected. The music was excellent, as always. But during a commercial break, there was a prayer request made for Aaron & Amanda Crabb's 2 yr old daughter. Aaron & Amanda had received a call saying little Eva had fallen out of the 2nd floor. She was in the hospital, in critical condition. We prayed until the moment we were back on live tv. You can read Eva's story at http://www.aaronandamandacrabb.com/evaupdate.phpWhat a miracle that she survived!
Later, Stephen Curtis Chapman helped bring the evening into perspective, that everything we write & sing about is true. He and Mary Beth had tragically lost their daughter, Maria, last year ~ he was speaking from experience. Through the eyes of a parent, a child of God, and a writer. He encouraged us to continue to write, to sing, to let the Lord love the world through us. Here's info about the ministry the Chapman's have established in Maria's memory http://chapmanchannel.typepad.com/marybeth/2009/06/show-hope-press-release.html
As far as the awards go, it was so fun to be there to cheer for those nominated, and I even recognized a few winners :D It was great to see Sue Smith & her mom...we even got a picture.
Later, I saw Joel Lindsay carrying his 3 Doves. I offered to help carry them, and he posed for a picture.
I love their work. All the Write About Jesus workshop clinicians are awesome writers. http://www.writeaboutjesus.com
The next day, I had bfast with Brett Florence. He's an Indie Heaven artist that set a lyric of mine to music about a yr ago, so it was great to finally meet him. We mostly talked theology :) God, help me! hahaha But I was actually saying "Lord, help Brett" cuz I am NOT a theologian!!! http://www.indieheaven.com/artists/brettflorence showcases Brett's music.
Then I went by Regi Stone's studio for coffee. He & his wife, Kim, are so precious. You'd never know their talent. They are both so humble. That's one thing that I've really been encouraged by as I've gotten to know people in the Christian music industry. I hold Kim & Regi close to my heart, and look forward to what the Lord does in their ministries.
http://www.kimberleestone.com/kimberlee.php
http://registone.com
http://experienceworship.com
Lisa Gordon & Ericka Harvey met me for a quick lunch. It was nice to catch up with them...I think I met both of them thru Write About Jesus as well (another shameless plug?) ~ Lisa doesn't have her music online, but here's Ericka's www.myspace.com/erickaharvey
That evening I had dinner with a friend and his daughter. I've known Keith Melius since Jr Hi. That was a loooong time ago! He serves in a church there. Great to catch up on the last 25 yrs! ha! Keith & Bella showed me downtown Nashville & we ate at the Spaghetti Warehouse. Here's the new AT&T building. I think we should be part owners of AT&T, don't you?
Good friends...good times!
Well, I guess that's just about it. Maybe now I can start thinking about what happened in May, June & July!
Back in April, I had the opportunity to go to Nashville for some co-writing sessions and to attend the Dove Awards. Every detail fell into place as Barry and I considered the trip. I'm so thankful that he sees that songwriting is a ministry, and not just a little hobby on the side. Oh, and Barry didn't argue when my friend Jeannie offered to take me to the airport at 5:30am!!!! God has surrounded me with great people.
It was an uneventful flight, then, after renting my car, I headed to my first writing session. I had good directions. I had the map. Gotta love google maps! Perfect directions, usually. Easy to follow, usually. But I blinked. Missed a turn.
I should have known I'd gone too far when I got to Henpeck Lane. Right before my eyes: Henpeck Market. I kid you not! I don't even wanna go there!!! Not even!!! (Henpecking is one of my pet peeves...I guess I'll blog about that someday!!)
I found myself looking at the bright side: Getting lost with a cell phone is better than getting lost without a cell phone. Made the call. Turned around. Easily found the studio.
Writing with Benton Stokes & Dennis Dearing was a huge blessing. We sat and visited for a few minutes, then talked about how the Lord has been at work. The song quickly unfolded, and within a few hours, the guys were recording the worktape. I love love love the song. It's for Benton's next project. I can't wait to hear the new cd....someday! Such a joy to work with them. Sweet times...the Stokes/Dearing/Wilson writing session was brilliant hahaha...seriously, God met with us...it was awesome to see Him at work. By the way, we met briefly last October at an awesome workshop called Write About Jesus.
You're in for a treat as you listen to songs from Benton's last cd
http://www.shoutlife.com/bentonstokes Great stuff! With more to come!
At http://www.menacemusic.net you can see the studio where we wrote...I was sitting near the computer :) Small world: Dennis' nephew was in the Sunday School class I taught in the late 80's!!!!
We went to lunch at Pancho's place in Franklin, then called it a day. Still needed a bridge for the song, but we'd have to write the rest on the phone or online!
I left there to go check into my room. Ended up calling my friend Andrea because I couldn't find the hotel. She's my remote GPS :) And, as always, she helped me find my way. It would help if businesses were required to post their street number, like in the good ol' days. ha. Sometimes you can go many blocks without any indication of what block number you're in! And huge neon signs would help, instead of those that comply to city specifications, no? I was driving around in circles, but it was the wrong circle. Haha
Then I headed to Green Hills Mall, to meet a JP & Irene Williams. But I got lost again. And my printout of Google maps didn't help. They'd left out one tiny detail, which sent me into downtown Nashville. I knew I needed help when I saw Music Row.
About that time, a new artist friend called me from Hope, Arkansas, asking for the lyrics to "Watch Over Me" and just thinking about Psalm 121 helped calm my nerves. I gave her my username & password so she could download anything her group needed for the studio. If my account is ever hacked, I'll know where to find her!
So, then I called JP and got directions to the mall. Drove around in circles, then found it! They were waiting patiently at Panera Bread, and we had a great visit. We aren't sure how we found each other online, but I'm thankful they are my friends. Everyone should read their story. They are both musicians, and excellent writers, but best of all, they are best of friends! I loved seeing their heart for God. So special!
www.jpwilliams.net & www.theblondeleadingtheblind.wordpress.com
BTW, Green Hills Mall is THE place to meet people. I will have to remember that for next time. Just a few doors down, I met with Dean Newkirk, just to hear what the Lord's been doing in his life. I enjoyed getting to know Dean's ministry. Seems like most of our sentences kept ending with "only God could do that!" Don't ya just love God? Check out Dean's group @ http://www.myspace.com/encountermusic
Then I tagged along as he went to check out something new at the Apple store. I picked out my MacBookPro. It will certainly be a dinosaur by the time I decide to buy it in 2020, when our last child graduates from high school. :)
On the way back to my hotel, I was very grateful for unlimited miles on the rental car. I didn't see any signs saying "Welcome to Georgia", but I think maybe I crossed a few county lines!!!
I did find my way, no thanks to my GPS friend, Andrea, ahem, cuz she didn't answer the phone. Yes, I'm bitter, but better for it! OK, so a person does have to sleep, sometime, right? I forgive her. Just this once! I pulled over on the side of the highway, prayed, and after looking at the map again, decided to turn around. Thank You, Lord!!!
Next day, bright and early, I went to Alison Stevens' house for a co-writing session.. Alison & I met at IndieHeaven's CIA Summit a few yrs ago. What a precious heart!!! Not only did we have a special day, writing, reflecting on God's goodness and awesomeness and all, but we also loved on her little baby girl, Jaden. Jaden stole my heart...she's the same age as our grandson, Jacob, and the Lord knew I needed a baby-fix!!! I love love love the song we wrote, too. We'll share when the time is right (and we fill in the blank on that one phrase!)...worth the wait!!!
http://www.indieheaven.com/artists/alisonstevens
That afternoon, I met Benton for a quick bite to eat at the OpryLand Mall. We talked about our love for God, our families, ministry, music, and, yes, Tennessee! Then we walked across the street to the Dove Awards. There was no way to prepare myself for the evening. The music was excellent, and the evening was filled with surprises. There was a tribute to Dottie Rambo, and various artists filled the stage, singing songs she had written. I was glad to see Larnelle Harris, and called Barry so he could hear Larnelle singing "Oh Happy Day" :)
And, oh, yes...Natalie Grant was awesome...here's a shot from the balcony:
But, wow, the awards ceremony was more worshipful for me than I'd expected. The music was excellent, as always. But during a commercial break, there was a prayer request made for Aaron & Amanda Crabb's 2 yr old daughter. Aaron & Amanda had received a call saying little Eva had fallen out of the 2nd floor. She was in the hospital, in critical condition. We prayed until the moment we were back on live tv. You can read Eva's story at http://www.aaronandamandacrabb.com/evaupdate.phpWhat a miracle that she survived!
Later, Stephen Curtis Chapman helped bring the evening into perspective, that everything we write & sing about is true. He and Mary Beth had tragically lost their daughter, Maria, last year ~ he was speaking from experience. Through the eyes of a parent, a child of God, and a writer. He encouraged us to continue to write, to sing, to let the Lord love the world through us. Here's info about the ministry the Chapman's have established in Maria's memory http://chapmanchannel.typepad.com/marybeth/2009/06/show-hope-press-release.html
As far as the awards go, it was so fun to be there to cheer for those nominated, and I even recognized a few winners :D It was great to see Sue Smith & her mom...we even got a picture.
Later, I saw Joel Lindsay carrying his 3 Doves. I offered to help carry them, and he posed for a picture.
I love their work. All the Write About Jesus workshop clinicians are awesome writers. http://www.writeaboutjesus.com
The next day, I had bfast with Brett Florence. He's an Indie Heaven artist that set a lyric of mine to music about a yr ago, so it was great to finally meet him. We mostly talked theology :) God, help me! hahaha But I was actually saying "Lord, help Brett" cuz I am NOT a theologian!!! http://www.indieheaven.com/artists/brettflorence showcases Brett's music.
Then I went by Regi Stone's studio for coffee. He & his wife, Kim, are so precious. You'd never know their talent. They are both so humble. That's one thing that I've really been encouraged by as I've gotten to know people in the Christian music industry. I hold Kim & Regi close to my heart, and look forward to what the Lord does in their ministries.
http://www.kimberleestone.com/kimberlee.php
http://registone.com
http://experienceworship.com
Lisa Gordon & Ericka Harvey met me for a quick lunch. It was nice to catch up with them...I think I met both of them thru Write About Jesus as well (another shameless plug?) ~ Lisa doesn't have her music online, but here's Ericka's www.myspace.com/erickaharvey
That evening I had dinner with a friend and his daughter. I've known Keith Melius since Jr Hi. That was a loooong time ago! He serves in a church there. Great to catch up on the last 25 yrs! ha! Keith & Bella showed me downtown Nashville & we ate at the Spaghetti Warehouse. Here's the new AT&T building. I think we should be part owners of AT&T, don't you?
Good friends...good times!
Well, I guess that's just about it. Maybe now I can start thinking about what happened in May, June & July!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matt 5:4
We are all surrounded by hurting people.
Where the pain is so great, so unbearable,
that there are times it is better to just be there.
Maybe to clean the house. Or maybe not.
Maybe to talk, or more likely, to not say a word.
Those times that a casserole or pie seems inappropriate.
All that's needed is the presence of someone who cares.
It may be from a distance,
but there is still comfort in knowing that there's a shoulder to cry on.
We are there right now.
***Several family & friends have suffered miscarriages recently. There are no words. Only prayers.
***We received word that my friend's husband passed away. John will be greatly missed by all who knew him. And Lynda is walking in the Shadow of the Almighty.
***Tuesday I learned that my childhood friend, Lisa's husband, Greg, had stopped breathing, and was in the hospital. He survived, and is back home now.
All of this makes me want to make my life count. Today. Not hoping for such and such to work out so that my plans and ambitions could amount to something. It really shook me up. We really, really don't know what tomorrow holds.
God made us to love deeply.
To care deeply.
And to hurt deeply.
May we never grow calloused to the needs around us.
We are all surrounded by hurting people.
Where the pain is so great, so unbearable,
that there are times it is better to just be there.
Maybe to clean the house. Or maybe not.
Maybe to talk, or more likely, to not say a word.
Those times that a casserole or pie seems inappropriate.
All that's needed is the presence of someone who cares.
It may be from a distance,
but there is still comfort in knowing that there's a shoulder to cry on.
We are there right now.
***Several family & friends have suffered miscarriages recently. There are no words. Only prayers.
***We received word that my friend's husband passed away. John will be greatly missed by all who knew him. And Lynda is walking in the Shadow of the Almighty.
***Tuesday I learned that my childhood friend, Lisa's husband, Greg, had stopped breathing, and was in the hospital. He survived, and is back home now.
All of this makes me want to make my life count. Today. Not hoping for such and such to work out so that my plans and ambitions could amount to something. It really shook me up. We really, really don't know what tomorrow holds.
God made us to love deeply.
To care deeply.
And to hurt deeply.
May we never grow calloused to the needs around us.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Easter treat!
There's a new man in my life. His name is Quinn. One of those ppl that you feel you've known your entire life! We met down by the piano, during church. Oh, ok. So, we were by the piano in the lobby. I'd already heard the message. He wasn't interested in hearing it, so we visited for awhile. He had no desire to hear the choir or praise band. He didn't even want to be in Bible study. You see, Quinn is only 7 months old! He's the most gorgeous non-Wilson baby I've ever seen. His big, bright eyes melted my heart! Quinn hadn't finished his nap, and had a little meltdown in the nursery. Thus our playdate on the lobby floor.
Well, about 10 seconds into the conversation with Quinn's dad, I realized I DID know Quinn. Well, sorta. My songwriting friend, Chad Boswell, had told me about someone he used to work with, Amanda, had moved to Houston recently. When Amanda and I became facebook friends, she told me that her family was planning to visit our church that week. I tried to meet her, but missed the chance each time. Still, we've kept in touch online for about a month.
Well, near the end of the service, along came Amanda, looking for her guys. My friend, Amanda. Oh, and her husband, Ben, is a keeper, too. We all visited for a loooong time after the service.
What a sweet surprise to finally get to meet my new friends :) Long live the meltdown!
Well, about 10 seconds into the conversation with Quinn's dad, I realized I DID know Quinn. Well, sorta. My songwriting friend, Chad Boswell, had told me about someone he used to work with, Amanda, had moved to Houston recently. When Amanda and I became facebook friends, she told me that her family was planning to visit our church that week. I tried to meet her, but missed the chance each time. Still, we've kept in touch online for about a month.
Well, near the end of the service, along came Amanda, looking for her guys. My friend, Amanda. Oh, and her husband, Ben, is a keeper, too. We all visited for a loooong time after the service.
What a sweet surprise to finally get to meet my new friends :) Long live the meltdown!
Friday, April 10, 2009
See the Cross
I woke up to a quiet heart this morning. Strangely quiet. Thinking about the day Jesus Christ was crucified, the darkness. The horror. That's how our lives are without the Light of Christ. Only God can go there, to that place in our heart. Until then, we are empty. Dead.
Look to the cross today. See the humanity of Jesus, and His humility. His glory & His authority. His mercy. His charity. He gave it all. What will you offer to Him today? I'm asking myself the same thing. I want to go there, with everything within me.
SEE THE CROSS
(c)2008 Words: Eva Wilson Music: Eddie Cavazos
See the cross touching earth, driven in the ground, (in the ground).
Je - sus Christ, Lamb of God speaks without a sound, (without a sound).
Whoa, oh, oh...humanity, whoa, oh, oh...His humility.
He gave up His life because of you and me.
See the cross pointing up, to the Father above, (the Father above).
Showing His Holiness, His power, and His love, (and His love).
Whoa, oh, oh...His glory, whoa, oh, oh...His authority.
But the darkness fell because of you and me.
I SEE THE CROSS, I SEE THE CROSS
SON OF MAN, SON OF GOD
I STAND IN AWE, WHEN I SEE THE CROSS
I STAND IN AWE, WHEN I SEE THE CROSS
See the cross stretching out, for the nations to know, (nations to know).
Reaching for the heart, where only God can go, (where God can go).
Whoa, oh, oh...His mercy, whoa, oh, oh...His charity.
Offering new life, He thought of you and me.
http://soundclick.com/share?songid=6854905
Look to the cross today. See the humanity of Jesus, and His humility. His glory & His authority. His mercy. His charity. He gave it all. What will you offer to Him today? I'm asking myself the same thing. I want to go there, with everything within me.
SEE THE CROSS
(c)2008 Words: Eva Wilson Music: Eddie Cavazos
See the cross touching earth, driven in the ground, (in the ground).
Je - sus Christ, Lamb of God speaks without a sound, (without a sound).
Whoa, oh, oh...humanity, whoa, oh, oh...His humility.
He gave up His life because of you and me.
See the cross pointing up, to the Father above, (the Father above).
Showing His Holiness, His power, and His love, (and His love).
Whoa, oh, oh...His glory, whoa, oh, oh...His authority.
But the darkness fell because of you and me.
I SEE THE CROSS, I SEE THE CROSS
SON OF MAN, SON OF GOD
I STAND IN AWE, WHEN I SEE THE CROSS
I STAND IN AWE, WHEN I SEE THE CROSS
See the cross stretching out, for the nations to know, (nations to know).
Reaching for the heart, where only God can go, (where God can go).
Whoa, oh, oh...His mercy, whoa, oh, oh...His charity.
Offering new life, He thought of you and me.
http://soundclick.com/share?songid=6854905
Pizza Dough Recipe
Best Dough in the World...can be used for pizzas, kolaches, or just a crescent-type roll
2 lg or 4 med pizzas
1 egg
1/2 cup mik, warm (microwave 45 sec)
4 cups flour (bread flour works best)
1/2 cup sugar (can use less)
pinch of salt
1 stick of butter/margarine, sliced
1 Tablespoon yeast
I use a bread machine, on the "first rise" setting, then use the dough as desired..pizza dough doesn't have to rise again, but rolls or kolaches need a 2nd rise, about 20-30 min.
If you don't have a bread machine, try working the dough for about 5 minutes, then let it rest about 15 minutes. Knead again for about 5 minutes, then rest for about an hour.
If using it for pizza, divide in half and use pie pans (be sure to spray with Pam). top with spaghetti sauce, mozarella, and your favorite toppings. Be sure to NOT overload it...you want it to cook thoroughly:) Oh...bake in 425F oven for 10 min.
For rolls or kolaches, divide dough in half. Pat out the dough into a circle, then slicing it like a pizza, into 12 parts. Then you can sprinkle cheddar, mozz, provolone, or american and a little turkey, ham, sausage or beef...and roll it up, starting with the big end (outer edge).
Place rolls on Pam-sprayed cookie sheet. Let rise for about 20-30 min.
Bake in preheated 350F oven for 7-8 min, until golden brown.
Enjoy!!!
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