Laurel Jean Online

On the Road, On the Air and In Prayer

Laurel Jean — Thur, 16 Oct 2008 00:10:49 GMT

Laurel Jean's MusicNotes
http://www.laureljean.com

Nehemiah 8:10 "...the joy of the Lord is your strength."

Greetings!

Thanks for reading my "Notes"! It is always a joy to stay in
touch with old friends, and to welcome new ones! Hi to my new readers
from South Carolina and Southern Illinois!

Did someone forward this message to you? Would you like to be
part of my "MusicNotes" family? The address book is always open.
Just visit the following link to subscribe. Your Email address will
never be given away or sold to anyone!
<
http://laureljean.com/subscribe.html>

Want to read previous issues of this year's "Notes"? Visit this
Newsletter online to read and comment on past issues.
<
http://websitetoolbox.com/mb/laurel_jean?forum=107629>

======================================================================
Notes from the Journey
======================================================================

Our thoughts and prayers are with all who celebrated White Cane
Safety Awareness Day today, October 15. I have a Scrapbook Page on my
site to share insight on this special day and what it means to me
personally.
<
http://www.laureljean.com/Celebrating_Independence.html>

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Notes from the Calendar
======================================================================

In spite of our struggling economy and the increased cost of
transportation, God continues to call me to minister throughout this
country. This extensive travel is possible because of the continued
support of folks like you and the churches and organizations you
represent!
The last couple of months have been really busy for me, with
music and ministry in Illinois, Missouri and last week in Charleston,
SC. I've updated my blog with some highlights, here.
<
http://websitetoolbox.com/tool/post/laurel_jean/vpost?id=3038181>

Tomorrow and Friday, October 16 and 17, I will be a guest host
right here in Ramsey, IL on FM 88.3 WJLY, as part of this Christian
Radio station's Share, 2008! If you're in the listening area, be sure
to tune in Thursday from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, and Friday from 7:00 to 9:00
AM. On Sunday evening, October 19, I look forward to meeting old
friends and seeing new faces, with Concert Ministry at White Chapel
United Methodist Church, Glasford, IL. Then, bright and early Monday
morning, October 20, I will be on my way to Christian Radio AM 1370
WLLM, Lincoln, IL, to appear as a guest host with Pastor Bill Dolan on
the Live Record Request Show. To learn more about any of these dates,
including how to listen to the Record Request show online, visit my
Events Calendar. Thanks for bringing or sending a friend!
<
http://laureljean.com/events.html>

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Notes of Prayer
======================================================================

One of the greatest joys of being part of any family is the gift
of joining together in prayer. Thanks for your ongoing prayers for
this ministry, especially my newly found Children's Chaplaincy. We
praise God for the recent accomplishments of kids like B, a violin
student who made regional orchestra in her state. We pray for T and
S, who strive to learn Braille math skills, and for JT, another one of
"my" kids, as he valiantly struggles with kidney failure. Please also
continue to pray for us as we reach out to our young brothers and
sisters in the blindness community, their teachers, families and
friends.

While Audrey, Zack and I were in Charleston, SC, prayer was being
answered in our Ramsey, IL office. Audrey is doing great with her
Braille skills, but still reads large print. We had been praying for
a video magnifier, which enlarges print and displays it on a screen.
She has one, but with the new office in South Carolina, we actually
need two.
Joan had been watching EBay, thrift stores and garage sales over
the past few months, while we prayed for a used video magnifier
(knowing that we would be lucky to find one for one hundred dollars).
It was at a local church rummage sale that Joan spotted a video
magnifier for five dollars! She called us right away, to let us know
that it worked perfectly! No one at the rummage sale knew who might
have donated this valuable item. Thanks be to God!

We always lift you and the rest of the "MusicNotes" family up in
prayer. Josh, our brother in Christ, has recently moved across the
country to study computer programming. A reader asks for prayer for
her sister who is recovering from back surgery, and others for friends
and loved ones battling cancer.

Sending a prayer request is as easy as responding to this
message, or calling (618) 423-9783. We love to hear from you!

Matthew 7:7 says, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you
will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."

Stay tuned for more notes. Until next time, God bless you and
keep His song in your heart!

In His Joy, Fellowship and Victory!

Laurel Jean

______________________________________________________________________

"Laurel Jean's MusicNotes" is an independent publication of
"Music By Laurel Jean". Please feel free to forward any
"MusicNotes" messages (in their entirety) to your friends.
Referrals from folks like you make possible many of my
musical/speaking engagements, album sales, and Mission Outreach
efforts. For permission to reprint any portion of these
Newsletters, please contact the office of "Music By Laurel Jean"
(618) 423-9783, or send an Email.

Forum: Newsletters, 2008

More Adventures in Music and Ministry!

Laurel Jean — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:46:22 GMT

Were in tune for fall, getting ready for another weekend of music and ministry here in Central IL. The past couple of months have been very busy, with church events in Illinois, Missouri and as recently as last week, Charleston, SC.

Late September 30, I flew into Charleston, where I joined Audrey and Zack for a week of ministry. As part of our Childrens Chaplaincy, two families, each with a blind teenager, came to my Charleston Headquarters. It was a joy to meet with both of these youths. We discussed their futures, shared music and fellowship, looked at Braille cookbooks and talked a lot about doing math in Braille!

On Sunday, October 5, we were welcomed into another of Gods Family Rooms as I brought The Message In Music during Morning Worship to the Lowcountry Freewill Baptist Church in Charleston. My thanks to Pastor Jones and all who made us feel so welcome!

On Monday, the 6^th, we visited the Charleston School for the Arts. There, we caught up with a high school sophomore who is not letting her blindness get in the way of her goals. This violin student is excited about the possibility of learning Braille music, and obtaining the computer technology that she will need to continue in her music studies.

On Tuesday, the 7^th, Audrey, Zack and I accompanied Jackie, a therapy/service dog (and Bill, one of her handlers), to Charleston Southern University. The Writing 106 class was learning about process, discussing how something works or how to do something. We talked about service dogs, white canes, sighted guides, Braille and the fact that God uses all of us in spite of (and including) our disabilities. We also had the privilege of meeting the Dean of Special Education, who has invited us back each semester to speak with her students learning to be special needs teachers.

Audrey, Zack and I returned to Illinois on Wednesday, the 8^th. With every trip to Charleston, this city feels more like a home away from home to me. I affectionately call these brilliant young people my kids, and I feel as if their families are part of my own. Thanks Bill, Marti, Laura and Dorace for all of your help, especially the much-needed transportation!

By Sunday, the 12^th, we were recuperated and off to Granite City IL with music and ministry for the Second Sunday at Six, hosted by St. Johns United Church of Christ. Pastor Frost had learned beforehand that the 12^th was my birthday and unbeknownst to me, had passed a nice card around for the congregation to sign during my concert. Before closing the service, she led everyone in a chorus of Happy Birthday To You.

The 13^th was another extra-special day spent with more of my family in Christ. Joan, Audrey, Zack and I were joined by friends, Joyce and Anna Marie on a trip to Tuscola. After lunch with Jeri and Dale, longtime members of my MusicNotes Family, we stopped by the local nursing care facility for a visit with Rev and his wife, Maxie, also close friends of my ministry. The Lord put it on my heart to offer an impromptu concert at the piano for the folks there, and soon everyone was clapping their hands as they danced and sang along! Even those using walkers and wheelchairs had a unique dance to offer!

I am reminded of a church service where I knelt after receiving Holy Communion. People passed by on their way to the altar, singing along with the Communion Hymn. I could hear each unique voice as it joined in unison with my own. What a blessing it is to be part of Gods family, joining in the dance of life and service in His Name.

Your ongoing prayers for this ministry and its outreach mean more than words can express!

Ephesians 5:19-20 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God bless you and keep His Song in your heart!

Laurel Jean

Forum: Blog

Happy Autumn! (09/25/08)

Laurel Jean — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 02:10:29 GMT

Laurel Jean's MusicNotes
http://www.laureljean.com

*Psalms 18:28 (NIV)*
You, O LORD, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into
light.

Greetings, and thanks for reading my notes! What a joy it is to stay
in touch with old friends, and to welcome new ones!

In response to my last issue, Pastor Pat from Central IL, a
longtime "Notes" family member, writes, "Just want to thank you for
writing such inspiring words in your regular 'Music Notes'! Today,
your remembrance of September 11 blessed me greatly! ... Thank you for
putting your voice on the Internet so that I can be blessed at my
office!"

Did someone forward this message to you? Would you like to be
part of my "MusicNotes" family? The address book is always open.
Just visit the link below to sign up. Be assured, your Email address
will never be given away or sold to anyone! You, reading this
Newsletter, are a blessing to me!
<
http://laureljean.com/subscribe.html>

======================================================================
More Notes from the Journey
======================================================================

On September 14, "Music By Laurel Jean" celebrated another
wonderful Church Homecoming Day, this time with the congregation of
Watson Baptist Church. Once again, it was great to be joined by God's
kids of all ages in a medley beginning with "Jesus Loves Me This I
Know", and ending with "Lord I Lift Your Name On High". Each of the
kids who participated in my impromptu choir (and some who were just a
little too shy to come forward), received a Braille ABC card,
accompanied by a "Truth Coin" with some printed notes from God's word
engraved on it. To learn more about these nifty little tokens of
Scripture, visit:
<
http://truthcoins.org/>

Do you have a favorite "witnessing tool" for sharing the Gospel
message or encouraging others in The Faith? Tell us about it. Just
click "New Topic" to post in my "Guestbook Forum", here.
<
http://websitetoolbox.com/mb/laurel_jean?forum=76260>

Thanks to the folks at Givhans Baptist Church, Ridgeville, SC,
for telling us about "Truth Coins"!

======================================================================
More Notes From the Calendar
======================================================================

On Tuesday, September 30, I will be flying to Charleston, SC for a
busy week in the "Lowcountry" area. In addition to reaching out to
area blind students through our children's chaplaincy, I will be
bringing God's Message in Music during Sunday Morning Worship at the
Lowcountry Freewill Baptist Church in Charleston, Sunday, October 5.

Your prayers for traveling mercies, and for all who help keep
this ministry going, mean more than words can say. My heartfelt
thanks to Joan who will be minding the office here in Illinois, as
well as Audrey, Zack and other generous volunteers who are currently
taking care of things in our new, Southeastern Headquarters.

From the Midwest to the Southeast (and beyond), stay up to date
with this Ministry on my Events Page. Don't forget to bring or send a
friend!
<
http://laureljean.com/events.html>

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More Notes of Prayer and Praise
======================================================================

We treasure the many joys and prayer concerns passed along by
"MusicNotes" family members. We celebrate with a couple who became
first-time grandparents, not long after the September 9 issue of this
newsletter was published. We are lifting up the concerns that many
readers have for their friends, families and loved ones, whether
serving our country, fighting for survival in the wake of recent
storms or battling various types of cancer.

Sharing praise or a prayer request is as easy as responding to
this message, or calling the office (618) 423-9783. We look forward
to hearing from you!

Until next time, God bless you, and keep His song in your heart!

In His Joy, Fellowship and Victory!

Laurel Jean

______________________________________________________________________

Forum: Newsletters, 2008

Remembering (09/09/08)

Laurel Jean — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 19:22:42 GMT

Laurel Jean's MusicNotes
http://www.laureljean.com

*Psalm 118:14*
The Lord is my strength and my song. He has become my salvation.

Greetings and thanks for reading my "Notes".

It is always a joy to stay in touch with old friends, and to
welcome new ones! Hi to my new readers from Southern Illinois!

Did someone forward this message to you? Would you like to be
part of my "MusicNotes" family? The address book is always open. Just
visit the following link to subscribe. Your Email address will never
be given away or sold to anyone!
<
http://laureljean.com/subscribe.html>

======================================================================
Notes of Thanks
======================================================================

From Eleanor, Program Coordinator, Long Prairie Missionary Baptist
Church, Belle Rive, IL

"Laurel Jean,
"It was a wonderful homecoming service, from beginning with our
pastor preaching from the roof, to you
sharing with us. Once again thank you and God Bless You!!"

======================================================================
Notes From the Calendar
======================================================================

Winding down the summer season and getting in tune for fall, we
have fond memories of bringing Concert Ministry to the folks at Long
Prairie Missionary Baptist Church. As we were setting up and doing a
sound check, Joan and I found the church's collection of rhythm
instruments (maracas, bells, triangles, tambourines, etc.) on a front
pew. We decided to put the children of the congregation to work and
gave them a spontaneous part in the program. Under Joan's direction,
each child received one of the instruments. All joined me, making a
joyful noise to the Lord, to the tunes of "Jesus Loves Me This I Know"
and "Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Praise The King!" Miss Audrey had the
rest of the congregation clapping along with us, while Zack (not to be
outdone) snored through the entire performance!

Our God is full of surprises! We only need to be open to His
working in and through us!

Over the next week, we look forward to sharing Music and Ministry
with God's kids of all ages. Three engagements, in Watson, IL, Clay
City, IL and Kirkwood, MO, are each open to the public! You'll find
details on my Events Page. Thanks for bringing or sending a friend!
<
http://laureljean.com/events.html>

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Notes In Memory
======================================================================

Time has passed. Still, we falter when we try to find words to
describe the horrifying events of September 11, 2001. Read my
Scrapbook page, "Remembering September 11", here.
http://www.laureljean.com/September_11th.html

======================================================================
Notes of Prayer
======================================================================

It is said, "The family that prays together stays together".
Thanks for remembering *all* of the "MusicNotes" family in *your*
prayers! Here are just a few things to pray about.

A mother and a grandmother ask that we continue to hold in prayer
all who are in the paths of recent and current storms. A pastor asks
for ongoing prayer for his daughter, who is undergoing multiple
reconstructive eye surgeries following a terrible automobile accident.
Another pastor and his wife ask for prayer for the new church that
they have just started, and for the community that we know is already
being blessed by their outreach.
I would ask that you pray for safe travels for Audrey and Zack,
as they make a return trip to Charleston next Tuesday, September 16,
for ministry and service in their home community. Also, remember
those children and their teachers, both blind and sighted, who have
returned to another school year.

Our personal thanks to anyone who takes the time to share prayer
requests with us. Sending a prayer request is as easy as responding
to this Email, or making a phone call (618) 423-9783.

======================================================================
Stay tuned for more "Notes"! Until next time, God bless you, and keep
His Song in your heart!

In His Joy, Fellowship and Victory!

Laurel Jean

______________________________________________________________________

Forum: Newsletters, 2008

Sharing the Journey! (08/22/08)

Laurel Jean — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 20:56:30 GMT

Laurel Jean's MusicNotes
http://www.laureljean.com

**Psalm 100:4-5**
"Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with
praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is
good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all
generations."

Greetings from Central Illinois, and thanks for reading my "Notes"!

It is always a joy to stay in touch with old friends, and to
welcome new ones! Hi to my new readers, from South Carolina to
Central Illinois! If someone has forwarded this message to you and
you would like to be part of my regular mailing list, the address book
is always open. Just visit the following link to sign up. Your Email
address will never be given away or sold to anyone.
<
http://www.laureljean.com/subscribe.html>

To read past issues of "Laurel Jean's MusicNotes", visit this
Newsletter's Web archives.
<
http://archive.mail-list.com/musicnotes/>

We love to hear from you and especially welcome *your*
praise/prayer requests. Just send an Email response to this message or
call (618) 423-9783.

______________________________________________________________________
**Twentieth Anniversary Notes**

This, my twentieth year of Music and Ministry, continues to be a
year of blessing on my work and outreach. As part of my
Twentieth-Anniversary Celebration, and to say thanks for your
support, we are announcing a special inventory-reduction sale on all
cassette tapes. While supplies last, buy any cassette tape from my
inventory for just three dollars each, US Postage Included! Cassette
albums offered at this special price are: Mood Swings 1 & 2, Music
From the Heart, Vision Through Your Eyes, Peaches & Honey, Home For
Christmas, 88 Keys To The Kingdom, Family Album and Christmas Gifts.
Stock up in time for Christmas. To purchase cassettes, or for a
detailed song list, call or Email.

     In June, Miss Audrey and I began a two-year course of religious
study on the college/seminary level. In July, "Music By Laurel Jean"
was proud to announce the establishment of a second (Southeastern
Regional) Headquarters located in Charleston, SC.
     We are back in Illinois, and are looking forward to bringing
Concert Ministry to a variety of Church Homecomings, Worship Services
and other special events.
     Stay "in tune" with my Events Calendar. Thanks also for bringing
or sending a friend!
<
http://laureljean.com/events.html>

And, read more about the inspiration for our Southeastern
Regional office in the latest post to my blog.
<
http://websitetoolbox.com/tool/post/laurel_jean/vpost?id=2910950>

______________________________________________________________________
**Kid Notes**

Jesus said, "Allow the little children to come to me! Don't
forbid them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these." (Mark
10:14). As you know, I treasure the comments of children so much that
I have dedicated an entire Web page to them. Visit my
recently updated, "Kids Comments" Page, here.
<
http://laureljean.com/kids_comments.html>

Thank you again for your ongoing prayers as we share God's
Message in Word and Song with His kids of all ages, on all walks of
life.

In His Joy, Fellowship and Victory!

Laurel Jean

______________________________________________________________________

Forum: Newsletters, 2008

My Journey Continues

Laurel Jean — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:00:18 GMT

John 15:12: This is my commandment, that you love one another, even as I have loved you.

A couple of days ago, I was blessed to hear from a lifelong friend. Carla was my itinerant vision teacher during my junior high and high school years, before I transferred to The Hadley School for the Blind. She was also among the first people to make me feel completely welcomed in a church setting. Any time I attended church with her, she would stay up late the night before, Brailling all of the congregational hymns and responses so that I could participate with the rest of her congregation. Although church had always been part of my life, because of Carla, I was finally able to freely sing, pray and speak in unison with everyone else for the first time.

As Carla and I chatted by Email, I was reminded of July 2007, when I brought music and ministry to Vacation Bible School Part II at Creekside Advent Christian Church in Charleston, SC. On the first night of that memorable VBS, a young lady walked into the room with her mom and sister, ready to attend this week of fun and fellowship just for kids. Brianna, who is also blind, was ready to do whatever it took to fully participate with her sighted peers in Vacation Bible School.

As I worked to make the VBS curriculum accessible for Brianna and joined in dialogs with her and the sighted children, I rejoiced in that moment of giving back, saying thanks to God for the people like my teacher, who helped to make Worship accessible to me. As the Vacation Bible School drew to a close, I heard my young friend say, I have attended many Vacation Bible Schools before, but this is the first time I felt like I really participated in one.

Not long before my Vacation Bible School experience, we at Music By Laurel Jean began partnering with the Assemblies of God National Center for the Blind, sponsoring Braille copies of The Chronicles of Narnia Series to be sent to blind children. Brianna and other kids from South Carolina, who read Braille, were among the first to receive their very own copies of books from this series. In May of 2008, I again traveled to the Lowcountry area, with music ministry engagements. During my three weeks in Charleston, I spent a lot of time with these brilliant kids, their parents, teachers and friends. As I helped them with their computers, showed them my Braille Notetaker and visited with them, I felt that I was leaving little pieces of my heart throughout this great community. These young people whom I affectionately refer to as my kids continue to receive our sponsored books, and some are asking for opportunities to share with others!

I truly believe that God is forming a very unique childrens chaplaincy as part of this ministrys outreach. We at Music By Laurel Jean treasure your prayers for this opportunity, as we take steps to be more accessible to blind youth, their families, teachers and friends.

In July of this year, Music by Laurel Jean proudly announced the establishment of a second headquarters, located in Charleston, SC. This new extension of Music By Laurel Jean will afford more time and space for outreach when I am presenting music and ministry, both in the Midwestern and Southeastern United States.

Our thanks especially to Joan, along with Audrey, Dorace, Linda, the Hyatts, the Gunters and everyone else who have contributed their time, talent and treasure to the establishment of the Charleston office.

Please stay tuned for more updates, as God continues to unveil His plans for the gift of ministry that He has placed on my life.

Mark 10:14: Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the

Kingdom of God.

Until next time, God bless you, and keep His song in your heart!

Laurel Jean

Forum: Blog

Father's Day Notes (06/12/08)

Laurel Jean — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 16:23:38 GMT

Laurel Jean's MusicNotes
http://www.laureljean.com

Luke 12:32
"Don't be afraid...for it is your Father's good pleasure to give
you the Kingdom."

Greetings, and thanks for reading "Laurel Jean's MusicNotes"!

It is always a joy to stay in touch with old friends, and to
welcome new ones. Hi to our new friends from South Carolina, and a
Happy Father's Day to all of the dads and granddads who read my
Newsletter!
Has someone forwarded this message to you? Would you like to be
part of my "MusicNotes" family? The address book is always open. Just
use the link below to sign up. Your information will never be given
away or sold to anyone!
http://laureljean.com/subscribe.html

Father's Day brings yet another opportunity for us to thank our
Heavenly Father for all that He gives to us. I can't stop marveling
at how much God loves you and me. He calls ordinary folks like us to
be part of His extraordinary work, to be His hands, feet and voice in
our world. I treasure your partnership in the work of ministry that
He places on my heart and in my life, every day. It is indeed His
good pleasure to give us the Kingdom!

On Tuesday, June 3, Audrey, Zack and I returned to Illinois after
three weeks of music and ministry in the Charleston, SC area. Our
thanks to all who offered prayers for traveling mercies and checked in
with us by phone/Email during our trip. With Arleigh's help, I have
added a new page to my Scrapbook, highlighting our time in the
"Lowcountry" area.
http://www.laureljean.com/Charleston.html

Not to be outdone, Zack shared his thoughts on those three weeks
in a guest post to my blog. His paws are too big for the camera
buttons, but he really gets around the computer keyboard quite well!
To leave your own comments for Zack, just click reply to that post.
http://websitetoolbox.com/tool/post/laurel_jean/vpost?id=2771967

While still in South Carolina, I was honored to be interviewed by
the Springfield, MO News Leader on behalf of the Assemblies of God
National Center for the Blind. Thanks to The Center, God's
Braille-reading kids of all ages are enjoying illustrated Braille
books from the Chronicles of Narnia Series. (Blind kids were actually
reading "Prince Caspian" before their sighted peers learned about the
movie!) You can read the article, right here.
http://www.news-leader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008806070317

When you bring "Music By Laurel Jean" to your church or
community, you help our ministry to reach out in support of Christian
organizations like this one. Thanks also to the generous folks who
step forward to join us in sponsoring the illustrated Braille books
from "The Chronicles Of Narnia" series for blind youth across the
nation. For musical and/or speaking engagements, or information about
helping "yours Truly" sponsor Braille books for blind youth, call my
office (618) 423-9783, or just reply to this message.

Stay tuned for more "Notes"! Don't forget, we always enjoy
hearing from you, too!

Until next time, God bless you and keep His Song in your heart!

In His Joy, Fellowship and Victory!

Laurel Jean

______________________________________________________________________

Forum: Newsletters, 2008

An Inspiring Young Lady!

Laurel Jean — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 18:09:42 GMT

The following article features one of the many amazing youth whom we visited while in South Carolina. We wish Brianna the best as she heads out for California to participate in this years National Braille Challenge later this month. I just know that shell be reading Braille Music, soon!

http://www.charleston.net/news/2008/jun/07/blind_but_shes_blending_right_in43789/

Psalm 118:24: This is the day that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it!

God bless you and keep His song in your heart!

Laurel Jean

Forum: Blog

"Pawty Time" in Sunny, South Carolina!

Zack the Guide Dog — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 17:18:08 GMT

Hi, folks;

Its me again, Zack! Remember, the best guide dog in the whole, wide world! Right now, though, Im one pooped pooch! Whew! We just got back from sunny South Carolina, where Mom and Aunt Laurel Jean really had my poor little paw pads to the pavement. We went lots of places walking, of course! Aunt Laurel really likes to walk, you know. I did get a few breaks, though, thanks to Uncle Billy, Aunt Dorace and Tele-Ride!

It seemed like we did a lot of work with those blind kids down there. If we werent at a school meeting with them in person, Aunt Laurel was talking with them on the telephone. We even went to one little fellows home in Ravenel, to meet with him and his great-grandparents, who were in the process of adopting him. One day a lady from the S.C. Commission for the Blind even came over to my house and talked for hours. Just before leaving, Mom asked her if she found any of the information Aunt Laurel had shared with her beneficial and she said it had been. She even assured Mom and Aunt Laurel that her outlook towards her clients had been changed and that she would definitely be more in tune to their body language, behavior and needs, thanks to what shed learned that day! Its a good thing, too, cuz my entire afternoon of ball playing was shot by her being there!

We did some fun things, while we were down there, too. Aunt Dorace took us to Edisto Beach and left us there for 4 days! Aunt Laurel and Mom got it in their heads they wanted to camp on the beach and God must have sanctioned it, cuz he opened up the one most prized ocean-front site at the state park campground just so we could have it. (Hes good like that, you know.) Well, anyway, there we were, Mom, Aunt Laurel, Slim (Aunt Laurels cane), and me, pitching a 3-room tent all by ourselves. The ocean breeze was almost too much for them to handle; they should be very glad I was there to supervise. As I lay there on the ground, watching intently, I observed folks from other campsites snickering at the idea there were 2 crazy women there trying to pitch a tent! Some even boldly positioned their lawn chairs so they could get an even better view of the fiasco! Once it became apparent, though, that Aunt Laurel and Mom could get that big tent set up, a few brave observers wandered over to speak to them. Can you imagine the looks in their eyes when they realized that Mom and Aunt Laurel were not only women, but blind, as well? Their amusement quickly turned into amazement and they immediately showed a newfound respect for these daring, adventuring sightless spirits!

While we were at the beach, we did a lot of playing; a lot of swimming; a lot of walking and a lot of praying! I actually believe this brief hiatus from the city and crowds served as a spiritual respite of sorts. We all seemed to get more in tune with God.

That spiritual energizing was evident when Aunt Laurel presented His message in her music at Givhans Baptist Church. She had everyone there, even the little people, snapping their fingers, clapping their hands and tapping their tootsies! She also did special music at the big Presbyterian Church around the corner from my house in Charleston, in return for their allowing her to practice on their piano. Boy! Did their jaws drop and their faces grin when she started doing her special Joy in My Heart Boogie! She really got their hearts pumping! They invited her to come back anytime shes in Charleston.

Aunt Laurel and Mom also did a special dedication of service program for my God-dog, Jackie, who doubles as a service/therapy dog. Aunt Marti and Uncle Bill invited the entire neighborhood and, of course, they all wanted their own pets to be blessed, too. So, after Aunt Laurels music program and Jackies special dedication; Mom and Aunt Laurel blessed each of the furries there one by one! I think there were even a couple of cats there, too!

My favorite time while in Charleston, though, was the Poochie Pool Pawty at Charleston Pet Resorts! Almost all of the Dixie Land Guide Dog Users were there for an afternoon of fellowship, swimming, Frosty-Paws, swimming and, did I mention swimming? Well, at least Smokey and I went swimming. I dont know what got into those other guys; but they just wouldnt get close to that water! Aunt Laurel even got in that big pool to try to coax them in; but they would have no part of it! I didnt care, though, cuz that just made more room for me! I love to swim! I swam so long and so much that Mom made me get out to rest. Then someone mentioned Frosty Paws and, of course, I had to go help the other guys eat them up! Thanks, Aunt Mary and Aunt Elaine, (Charleston Pet Resorts), for giving us a great day!

So, now you too can see how busy we were in Charleston and why Im so tired. In fact, I think Ill just lay down here on Moms bed and take a little nap. See you guys later! Meanwhile, like Aunt Laurel Jean says, Keep His song in your heart!

Zack, the guide dog

Forum: Blog

God is always working!

Laurel Jean — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 19:41:46 GMT

We arrived back in Illinois on June 3, and have been busy ever since. On my way to the airport in Charleston, I was honored to participate in a phone interview with the Springfield, MO News Leader. Using the link below, you can read the article, highlighting the work of Braille Transcriber Sarah Sykes and the Assemblies of God National Center for the blind.

http://www.news-leader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008806070317

We congratulate the Center on so many wonderful accomplishments, including the illustrated Braille editions of Solomons Quest and the Chronicles of Narnia series.

Hebrews 6:10: For God is not unrighteous, so as to forget your work and the labor of love which you showed toward his name, in that you served the saints, and still do serve them.

God bless you, and keep His song in your heart!

Laurel Jean

Forum: Blog

From the Sunny South (05/31/08)

Laurel Jean — Sat, 31 May 2008 17:18:09 GMT

Laurel Jean's MusicNotes
http://www.laureljean.com

*James 1:17*
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from
the Father of lights, with whom can be no variation, nor turning shadow.

Greetings, and thanks for reading "Laurel Jean's MusicNotes". It is
always a joy for me to stay in touch with old friends and to welcome new ones!
If someone has forwarded this message to you and you would like to be part of
my regular mailing list, the address book is always open. Just use the link
below to subscribe. Your Email address will never be given away or sold to
anyone.
<
http://laureljean.com/subscribe.html>

I am writing this "MusicNotes" update from sunny Charleston, SC, where
Audrey, Zack and I have been very busy in ministry and music. Our thanks to
Dorace Lackey and Marti and Bill Hyatt for a lot of warm hospitality and help
with transportation here in Charleston, and to Joan Walden for minding the
office back in Illinois. To learn more about our ministry here in the
"Lowcountry" area, visit my online Events Calendar. Don't forget to bring or
send a friend!
<
http://laureljean.com/events.html>

Of course, we have also taken a little time to enjoy this beautiful area,
and look forward to sharing memories of our time here in future Newsletters
and blog posts. While you're waiting for more news, we've posted a couple of
traditional Southern-style recipes to the blog. Enjoy!
<
http://websitetoolbox.com/tool/post/laurel_jean/vpost?id=2746160>

On another note, shortly after arriving here in Charleston, I was
thrilled to learn that a version of my story "Heads Up", was published in the
weekly "Heartwarmers" Email community Newsletter. Read the story and learn
more about Heartwarmers on the community's Web archives.
<
http://archive.mail-list.com/heartwarmers/msg01408.html>

Thanks for your prayers for traveling mercies as we return to Illinois
this Tuesday, June 3. Stay tuned for more "Notes". Until next time, God
bless you, and keep His song in your heart!

In His Joy, Fellowship and Victory!

Laurel Jean

______________________________________________________________________

Forum: Newsletters, 2008

Writing from Charleston, SC

Laurel Jean — Fri, 30 May 2008 20:10:57 GMT

Were keeping busy with music and ministry here in sunny South Carolina, enjoying the wonderful folks in the Lowcountry area, and a lot of tasty Southern cooking!

Im reminded of our Soul Food Sunday, in February of this year back in Illinois, when Miss Audrey introduced our area to a couple of soul food favorites, scrumptious red rice n sausage and homemade Southern-style macaroni-and-cheese.

We hope yall enjoy trying these recipes. Miss Audrey doesnt cook by note, so you may have to do a bit of tasting as you go. These dishes are wonderful for winter, and make wonderful comfort food any time.

Red rice n sausage

Ingredients

1 can tomato soup

1 can water

3 cups instant rice

1 large onion

1 large bell pepper

1 lb. Smoked sausage (your choice)

1 tbs sugar

Directions:

Saut bell pepper and onion in frying pan and set aside.
Slice sausages and cook them in the same frying pan then add veggies and let them cook about a minute more.
In a separate pot, prepare soup, water and sugar with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil and slowly add rice.
Add peppers onions and sausage and mix well.
Turn burner off and cover for five minutes. Stir again and serve.

(Serves four to six people)

Macaroni & cheese

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked macaroni

lb. Shredded cheese

1/3 cup butter or margarine

2 eggs

2/3 cup milk

1 tbs sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbs mayonnaise

Directions:

Mix everything but the macaroni and cheese together in a mixing bowl.

2. Place hot cooked macaroni in a baking dish and stir in the cheese.

Pour liquid into the dish and bake at 350 degrees for approximately 35 minutes or until it begins to brown on top.
(Serves 4 to 6 people)

Stay tuned for more about my visit to the Charleston area.

Until next time, God bless you and keep His song in your heart.

Forum: Blog

a Musical-Ministry Roundup

Laurel Jean — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 21:11:50 GMT

It is hard to believe that were already well into the second quarter of my twentieth year, sharing the Good News in word and song! Weve been on the road a lot, with engagements in Illinois and Missouri. Since the beginning of the year, Audrey and Zack have also made one round trip to and from their home community of Charleston, SC! In May, I will be returning to Charleston with them for three weeks of music and ministry. Stay tuned for more frequent updates to the blog! J

2008 continues to be a true blessing to all of us, as God uses us to shine His Light. Several of my appearances, including the very first of this year, have seemed like old home week with lots of folks attending, many of whom I had not seen since before I began to present on the professional level. During a recent event, I even got a little nervous when I learned that one of my favorite former music instructors was in the audience! (Really, I never get nervous, but I couldnt help it this time! She is still an awesome teacher!) Just this past Sunday, I was not as nervous when I called my kindergarten teacher to the front of the First Christian Church of Arcola to assist me with a special Childrens Message. She still has a wonderful way with kids! It was great to highlight her work with children as part of the 150th anniversary of the church she had attended when she was a child.

We continue to support Christian radio, having already appeared for several interviews with Pastor Dick Wheeler on his Lamp Lighter Program, right here in Ramsey on FM 88.3 WJLY. Hear samples on my Events Page! Were making plans to stop by Lincolns Christian Radio, WLLM AM 1370 very soon! Also on the air waves, were excited about our upcoming visit to The Party Line, hosted by Panzi Blackwell and Dan Michel on Vandalias AM 1500, WPMB. Download the full-length version of Panzis theme song, and others from my Journey Home CD, Here.

As part of our outreach, two engagements this year (an all-school celebration and a womens district level retreat) have presented opportunities to honor volunteer Lutheran Braille Workers for their tireless dedication to the blindness community. Each Braille worker present at these events received a nice round of applause and a complimentary CD, featuring Music By Laurel Jean. Also, our sponsorship of books from The Chronicles of Narnia series continues as we prepare to send the latest book, The Silver Chair, produced in Braille by the AG Center for the Blind, to some Outa sight kids!

Many thanks to all who attended our Soul Food Sunday and Family Game Night events, hosted during the first quarter of this year. Well be announcing more fellowship times like these in the coming weeks.

If you have not yet attended one of my presentations, check out my Events Calendar. Throughout 2008, if you attend any of my Live presentations, you can purchase cassette versions of several of my albums for just one dollar, while supplies last! Both online and at Live events, were also offering reduced prices on Zacks book and my Mood Swings double album CD!

Psalm 13:6: I will sing to Yahweh, because he has been good to me.

Until next time, God bless you and keep His song in your heart!

Laurel Jean

Forum: Blog

iTunes, Kids & Guide Dog Zack (04/23/08)

Laurel Jean — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:51:47 GMT

Laurel Jean's MusicNotes
http://www.laureljean.com

*Ephesians 2:10*
"...we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good
works, which God prepared before that we would walk in them."

Greetings!

Thanks for reading "Laurel Jean's MusicNotes". It is always a
joy for me to stay in touch with old friends, and to welcome new ones!
If someone forwarded this message to you and you would like to be part
of my "MusicNotes Family", the address book is always open. Use the
link below to sign up. Your Email address will never be given away or
sold to anyone.
http://laureljean.com/subscribe.html>

======================================================================
*Now on Apple - iTunes*

     Since the beginning of my electronic MusicNotes Newsletter in
2001, many folks have written to me, asking if my music can be
purchased one song at a time as individual downloads. I am happy to
report that, thanks to our recent partnership with independent music
distributor "CD Baby", ten of my songs are now available on iTunes!
If you are registered with iTunes, an artist search for "Laurel Jean"
should bring up my "Journey Home" CD in the search results from the
iTunes Music Store. The following songs are now available as
individual downloads: "Journey Home"; "The Preacher and the Bear";
"When The Saints Go Boogyin' In"; "This Is My Father's World"; "What A
Friend"; "Song of the Holy Spirit"; "Sunshine In My Soul"; "Vision
Through Your Eyes"; "Amazing Grace" & "The Communion Of Saints".
     As with all of my other sales, including Zack's book (more about
that later), a portion of proceeds from my music downloads help to
support the production of Christian material, accessible to my
brothers and sisters (and me) in the blindness community!
     To learn more about iTunes, visit the Apple - iTunes Web site.
Don't forget to tell your friends!
<http://www.apple.com/itunes/store/>

Visit my page on "Cd Baby", here.
<http://cdbaby.com/cd/laureljean>

======================================================================
*More Kids' Comments*

Many of my MusicNotes Family know how much I treasure
opportunities to share God's message in word and song with His
children of all ages. In March, I was blessed to present for an
all-school gathering in celebration of International Lutheran Schools
Week, hosted and sponsored by St. Paul's Lutheran Schools in
Concordia, MO. During this unique time of music and ministry, "Music
By Laurel Jean" was honored to recognize a group of volunteers who
help produce Braille materials to be distributed by Lutheran Braille
workers, Inc. Comments on this presentation from sixth-grade students
can be found by visiting my "Kids Comments" page and scrolling down to
the grouping from St. Paul's Lutheran School, Concordia, MO.
<http://www.laureljean.com/kids_comments.html>

You'll find a note from their teacher on my "Applause Page".
Just scroll down to the section marked "More Applause".
<http://www.laureljean.com/applause.html>

======================================================================
*From Audrey and Zack*

Also in March, I was privileged to introduce Audrey and Zack as
they were featured on two episodes of "The Lamp Lighter Program"
hosted by Pastor Dick Wheeler on Christian Radio FM 88.3, WJLY, right
here in Ramsey! If you missed the on-air broadcast, you can hear the
two-part interview by visiting my "Events Page", scrolling down to the
event posting dated "March 24 thru 27", and clicking on "Part 1" and
"Part 2", respectively.
<http://laureljean.com/events.html>

While you're on the Events page, be sure to check out our
upcoming appearances. Thanks for bringing a friend, or sending a
friend who is in the area!

Audrey and Zack share a beautiful testimony and witness for the
Lord. To purchase your very own, "pawdographed" copy of Zack's book,
visit "Laurel Jean's Albums Etcetera".
<http://laureljean.com/albums_etcetera.html>

======================================================================

God has truly blessed me in this twentieth year of music and
ministry, from Soul Food Sunday, to Family Game Night, and beyond!
Stay tuned for more"Notes", with more opportunities for you to join in
the celebration! We always enjoy hearing from you, too!

Until next time, God bless you and keep His song in your heart!

In His Joy, Fellowship and Victory!

Laurel Jean

______________________________________________________________________

Forum: Newsletters, 2008

Easter Notes (03/21/08)

Laurel Jean — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 23:45:47 GMT

Laurel Jean's MusicNotes
http://www.laureljean.com

Greetings and thanks for reading my "Notes"! It is always a joy
to stay in touch with old friends, and to welcome new ones!
     Did someone forward this message to you? Use the following link
to join my "MusicNotes" Family!
<
http://laureljean.com/subscribe.html>

======================================================================
*You're Invited*
Turn off the television, throw down that video game and get away from
that computer! "Music By Laurel Jean" invites *you* to our first
Family Game Night, right here in Ramsey, IL, March
28, 2008.
We will begin our evening with a short prayer at 6:00 PM then,
snacks and table games until 10:00 PM (or Midnight).
God's kids of all ages are most welcome! Bring your favorite finger
foods, beverages (no alcohol, please) and a family-friendly CD to
share.
Our table games are accessible. Blind and sighted
folks can fully participate, together. We'll have tables set up with
lots of games for all ages, including dominoes, uno, playing cards (no
gambling), Monopoly with a British flare, Scrabble, Jenga, Old Maid,
checkers, Canoga and Go Fish. Or, you can play toss-the-ball or
tug-of-war with Zack, Zettie, Kaley and special guest, Luna.
Please contact me by March 27 if you plan to come. We will give you
directions when you call or Email.
** Outside of the Central IL Area? Consider hosting a Family Game
Night for your church or community. We can help make your event
accessible, too!
======================================================================
*Psalm 118:14:*
     The Lord is my strength and song. He has become my salvation.
     The Lord, Christ Jesus is, indeed, my strength and my song. He
is truly the only vision that I will ever need. I wrote the song,
"Vision Through Your Eyes", for Jesus and those people with whom The
Lord has blessed my life.
     Now, you can download the full-length version of this song, and
all of the other tracks from my "Journey Home" CD, right to your
computer in MP3 format. Learn more and hear samples from this album
on my "CD Baby" Web site. Look for the "Purchase in MP3 format"
button near the top of the page.
<
http://cdbaby.com/cd/laureljean>
======================================================================
*Psalm 34:8*
     Oh Taste and see that The Lord is good. Blessed is the man who
takes refuge in him.
     As we Christians approach the Celebration of Easter, our hearts
are also heavy with the events of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. We
are nearing the end of another Lenten Season, an opportunity in the
Church Year to examine our lives and draw closer to Jesus, who gave
His life so that we might live.
     As you prepare for your weekend festivities, we hope that you
enjoy this message--a unique perspective on the abundance of our
awesome God--from Audrey, Zack's Mom. Read her article, "Please Pass
the Corn", on my blog.
<
http://websitetoolbox.com/tool/post/laurel_jean/vpost?id=2584873>
     We welcome Audrey and Zack, who returned this past week to
Illinois after serving for several weeks in their home community of
Charleston, SC.
======================================================================
*More Calendar Notes*
     This Sunday, March 23, I am looking forward to bringing an Easter
Message in Music during 10:00 AM Worship in Rural Girard, IL at Union
Chapel Baptist church. To learn more about this and other upcoming
events, visit my Online Events Calendar. Thanks for bringing or
sending a friend!
<
http://laureljean.com/events.html>
Looking forward to seeing you! Until next time, God bless you and
keep His song in your heart.
In His Joy, Fellowship and Victory!
Laurel Jean
______________________________________________________________________
     "Laurel Jean's MusicNotes" is an independent publication of
"Music By Laurel Jean". Please feel free to forward any
"MusicNotes" messages (in their entirety) to your friends.
Referrals from folks like you make possible many of my
musical/speaking engagements, album sales, and Mission Outreach
efforts. For permission to reprint any portion of these
Newsletters, please contact the office of "Music By Laurel Jean"
(618) 423-9783, or send an Email.

Forum: Newsletters, 2008