Tribute to my wife..

More woman than I ever bargained for, more lady than I deserved, more mother to our children than I even knew was possible. Her frequent saying to me is, "I am not super-women", yet I have to beg to differ, she really is!

Always watching how she can help someone and wishing to make their day. Much of her attention and time is sacrificed on my part because I know she is finding fulfillment in serving others. If this were not the case, I am sure I would selfishly complain.

I married Delia when she was 22 and thought her to be quite attractive. This was no comparison to how she looks to me now! I guess her recognized qualities ad to the total picture but I am not sure. I just know she looks better now than ever at 46 (in a couple of days).

Growing up with 5 other siblings, our home was often in need of cleaning. My wife has always kept our home clean and neat. For this I am greatly appreciative.

Teaching is another great talent and ministry of hers. Her commitment to study and be prepared blends into whatever task is at hand.

The anointing upon her music ministry is recognized by all. Her absense is obvious to all when she cannot be with us in service.

When we first married her favorite dish to make was chicken crepes. Maybe it was the only dish she made that was special. Needless to say, her cooking and hospitality skills have matured through the years. She loves cooking for others.

She is in the kitchen now, guess I better go help... she is calling me.

By the way, her name is Delia.

Laurin Flowers - Shekinah Glory

Kaylee Johnstone - I Will Follow You

A Night of Praise - Christian Music Event

On September 1st at 7:00p.m. there will be a gathering of Christian musicians, Church Choirs and other singing groups as well as soloists at the Pioneer Park Pavilion in downtown Puyallup, WA. This unique gathering for ministry in music and drama is was dubbed, "A Night of Praise". This meeting is completely FREE and everyone is invited. Visit the website at www.anightofpraise.com Larry Schoonover

Tribute to my kids...

I am sure many parents think very highly of their children but I know it is obvious to all that some don't seem to care at all. As our girls are now maturing into adulthood I find each of them very facinating. Their mother and I can sit for long periods of time just commenting about a facial expression we my see on them. Simple moments can be very precious. It really does not take much for a parent who loves their kids to feel proud of them.

As a pastor I often glance at them during church services only to discover they were watching for my glance. I have to pay attention because they can misread my focused look to be a tern look at them. Every service I look their way and give them a little private smile, letting them know, it was just for them alone.

They may never know how we watch for them before each service. Not because of the important duty might perform, but for the completeness we feel as a parent when they are there. I know we are very blessed that God has called them to be near us for now. We (their mother & I) treasure each day we can be near them.

I watch closely and observe the progressive steps of growth in minstry as they assume greater responsibilities and make more sacrifice for the benefit and care of others. It is then you realize they were watching and learning after all those years which you will never repeat. It counted for something!

Our eldest daughter Laurin Flowers married a young man (Caleb) from the Memphis area. He is an accomplished musician, a great athlete, and he obviously loves our daughter very much. The latter being most important. Next comes Kaylee Johnstone who married a fine young man (Nick) from Oregon. He too is very talented and a very anointed minister. They are all very involved and carry a considerable load of responsibility for the congregation where we pastor. Tara is our youngest at 15 and is still at home. Nights are often spent sitting on our bed telling stories, sharing events or just watching Tara make funny faces at us. She is the church drummer and the boys only wish they could play like her. We have accused some young men of just coming to church to watch her play.

As siblings there can sometimes be a tense moment or two when the pressure is on. This of course disturbs a parent who love all their children equally. It warms my heart when one couple is out of town and the other couple shows up at our house asking, "When are they coming back?" Just knowing how much they realy care for each other.

Caleb, Laurin, Nick, Kaylee and Tara, we love you all very much.