Are you undecided on whether to buy a home that needs a lot of work or build a new home? As a realtor,, I see this situation all the time. There are so many questions and factors to consider. Here is a high level idea. There is so much more that goes into this kind of decision process. Each situation is so different. If you want to buy a fixer-upper, here are a few things to take into consideration.

If you are buying a foreclosure or an estate home, there are no disclosures. So in any home purchase, get an inspection. If the price is good, this could be a great way to go. Once you get the inspection report back, review it or hire a contractor to help you. If there are major issues, this could make a good deal go bad in a heartbeat. So get some quotes on all the items that need to be repaired, changed, or added. Take your initial purchase price and add the cost for the repairs or enhancements. Are you within your budget? If you are going to flip the house, will you be able to get your investments back out of it? If you are going to live here, make sure you do the job correctly. Also, keep in mind, when starting a project; you can encounter additional unknown items occasionally. Sometimes, we can walk a home and visually detect items that need repairs. However, the inspector will go beyond that. Always have a number in mind that you want to spend on a home, and a number for the repairs or enhancements you want to make. If you decide that the home you thought you wanted needs way too much work, you might want to keep looking or build.

If you decide to build, again, establish a budget. If you go this route, you will need to find a lot or land. Sometimes the land might have water or sewer, or can connect to local, verses adding those items. If you have to add a well and septic, this could cost you a big chunk. How big of a house do you want to build? A custom builder might be a tad higher than those tract homes. Compare prices. Once you decide this is the route you want to take, add the cost of the land, possible improvements, and the estimate of the home. For the estimate of the home, a builder can give you a ballpark square foot average. The builder is not able to give you an accurate number not knowing what all you want in your home. If you have a budget, give that number to the builders that you interview.

This is just a high-level thought process. If you are totally unsure, you might want to talk to a realtor and/or builder for assistance. Compare your home options based on your budget. Don’t go outside your means. If you go outside your means, this could not only cause a financial burden, but you just might not like the house anymore. Just weigh out your options. Do your homework. This can be fun.

For ALL Your Real Estate and Building needs or questions, call Debbie at (830) 833-4249 / (713)818-6658 or debbie@vallonerealestate.net

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More from Putting the Pieces Together.

From L-R: Cyndy Granberg Hounsell, Marilynn Lageman, Linda Nash, and Andree Barns.

The Blanco Non-Profit Coalition, otherwise know as Wild Woman Weekend, is dishing out again to four non-profits in Blanco. This time they are dishing up $40,000. That is an increase of $12,000 from last year. Thank you to all of the volunteers and the Blanco community for making this second event even more successful than the first one.

On June 2nd, Cyndy Granberg Hounsell, treasurer of BNPC, presented checks for $10,000 to each of the non-profits: Marilynn Lageman, Friends of the State Park; Linda Nash, Blanco Library, Inc.; Andree Barns, Old Blanco County Courthouse Preservation Society; Gem of the Hills Senior Citizens Community Center. These organizations work hard to support the citizens of Blanco, and these funds will support their efforts.

We loved dishing out seconds, and cannot wait to dip up thirds! Wild Woman Weekend has started planning for their third ultimate gal-pal road event to be held the second weekend of April 2015. With such a fantastic track record and with Blanco women working tirelessly for their community, the expectations are high that the achievements will continue the third time around. Mark your calendars and come join the fun. Ladies if you would like to join with other women in our community to help this action packed weekend achieve even greater heights, contact Connie Barron at goddessfit@aol.com or Bette Vest at bettemv@gmail.com, and they will be glad to put your talents to work for the benefit of the Blanco Non-Profit Coalition.

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More from Community News.

2014-2015 JV Squad. From L-R: Savanah French, Kaylin Gaskamp, Cheyenne Dechert, Cassidy Wagner, Alexis Bates, and Reilly Burnett. Photo by Collin Gaskamp.

The BHS Cheerleaders with host a Bar-B -Q Fundraiser at the Panther Stadium Concession Stand on Sunday, June 8 from 11am to 2pm. Pre-sale Tickets are $8. Tickets at the door are $10.

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More from Sports.

LST- 344 amongst a wave of LSTs landing on Omaha Beach on 6 June 1944. The public is invited to a brief ceremony at the WW2 Museum,10 am on Friday, to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of D-day.

Seventy years ago the greatest military operation in history unfolded on the Normandy coastline of France. The Allies began their long awaited crusade to liberate Europe which had been under Nazi occupation since 1940.

America’s strategic focus from the beginning was a cross channel invasion to liberate France and then drive towards Germany. America agreed to support the British campaigns in the Mediterranean but the primary focus remained on the cross channel invasion. The Americans learned some invaluable lessons from the Mediterranean campaigns and in the Spring of 1944 the Allies were ready to make their play.

While the Germans knew that the invasion was coming, an extensive misinformation campaign kept them in the dark on where or when. While the Allies could choose where they would make their landings, the Germans had to defend the entire European coastline from France to Norway. Adding to their problems was the war on Eastern Front where over 75% of the Germany military was engaged in a brutal struggle against the Russians. Things weren’t going all that well in the East and resources for “Fortress Europe” were low in priority compared to what was needed to stem the Red tide in the East.

So off the coast of Normandy that morning, LST -344, soon to be named the USS Blanco County, waited patiently as the day unfolded. Like most of the 344’s crew, Chief Warrant Officer John F.”Jack” Hillman had been there, done this, before. LST-344 took her first casualties during the invasion of Sicily a year earlier. Italy was more of the same where the issue was in such doubt there was talk of evacuating the beaches there. In both battles the fleet of ships sitting offshore were tempting targets for the Luftwaffe. So as dawn broke and the greatest armada in history became visible around the 344, rather than be reassured, Hillman was getting that uneasy feeling of what the sky could bring again.

Not far away, a son of Blanco, Foster “Carroll” Smith, Texas A&M Class of ’37 was witnessing the same scene as the sun broke over the horizon. Smith was with a group of experimental Sherman tanks known as DDs for the dual drives which would propel them through the water. Huge canvas skirts kept them afloat as their dual drives powered them towards the coast. The DDs were to provide vital fire support to the Infantry landing on the beaches. Smith knew that the skirts could keep the tanks afloat where the waves were up to 1 feet. Unfortunately that morning the waves were closer to six feet.

Both men had their roles to play in the elaborate choreography that was unfolding that morning. An umbrella of aircraft roared overhead, battleships and cruisers sent volleys of huge shells screaming towards the coast, and finally the landing craft made their way towards the shore under the carefully developed plans that had been practiced and rehearsed.

Things in war rarely go as planned.

As the DD tanks were being launched it soon became evident that the seas were too rough for the canvas skirts. One by one they floundered and then sank. Regardless, the operation continued. Of the 29 launched, two actually made it to the beach. Twenty seven still remain on the bottom of the English Channel where they sank that day. Their absence would be noted later on Omaha Beach.

LST 344 was due to bring in her load of troops and material into Omaha Beach but continued to be in a holding pattern increasing Hillman’s anxiety. There were five beaches that were being invaded that morning. Utah and Omaha were American. Sword, Juno and Gold were mainly British and Canadian. Most of the German coastal defenses were manned by low quality units, often Eastern European volunteers with little enthusiasm for battle. Unfortunately for the Americans, at Omaha elements of the German 352nd Infantry were manning the defenses there and those DD tanks would be sorely missed.

The fighting raged on Omaha for most of the morning, but the tide finally turned as it did across the Normandy coastline that day. Ships like LST 344 were vital to the invading army, which needed to rapidly build up its force to meet the anticipated German counterattacks. The Germans would ensure no working ports would fall into Allied hands and the supplies would have to come directly across the beaches. LST-344 got her orders that afternoon and moved in and unloaded her cargo of men and material. On her return voyage to England that night she was attacked by German aircraft and was credited with helping shoot down a JU-88 medium bomber. She reloaded in England and then continued the conveyor belt of ships that would be needed to build up and sustain the invading armies.

Jack Hillman transferred to LST-133 on June 8, 1944, which was also shuttling back and forth between Omaha Beach and England. A week later as she was returning to Omaha beach she was torpedoed killing 43 on board. Hillman and LST-133 survived and she was being repaired and refitted to head to the Pacific Theater when the war ended. Jack returned home and eventually became the Reverend John H. Hillman. Carroll Smith would continue on into France and finally Germany with the 3rd Armor and eventually returned to Blanco. He settled into the same wood frame house where he was born overlooking the Blanco River and became a local historian of legendary abilities. Two men who never met each other but are forever connected by the roles that played on that momentous day in history and their connection to Blanco County.

There is a wealth of volumes about D-Day. some of which can be found at the Blanco Library, but the 1962 classic the “Longest Day” remains as a must see to get an overall sense of the events of that day. The USS Blanco County would continue to serve until she was retired in 1970 after a tour in Vietnam, but her role on D-Day was likely the high point in her career. More on this decorated ship can be found at the WW2 Blanco Museum in the Buggy Barn Museum Complex on N. 281 or online at: http://ww2blancomuseum.com/

“We’re privileged as a community to have some of the original artifacts from the Bridge of the USS Blanco County, “ said Rick Sebenoler, Acting Curator of the WW2 Blanco County Museum in the Buggy Barn Museum Complex off of N 281. “There is only one LST remaining today and at some point we’d like to commission a model of the USS Blanco County to provide a better perspective of this unique sort of ship. She is truly deserving of that honor.”

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More from Features.

AUSTIN — Republican voters picked Dan Patrick to face Democrat Leticia Van de Putte in the race for lieutenant governor in November.

Patrick received 65 percent of the vote to incumbent Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst’s 35 percent in the May 27 runoff. Sen. Patrick, R-Houston, and Sen. Van de Putte, D-San Antonio, have seven years and 15 years of experience, respectively, as members of the 31-member Senate. Van de Putte ran unopposed in the March Democratic Party Primary.

Dewhurst has presided over the Senate since 2003. His term of office will expire on Dec. 31. A businessman in private life, Dewhurst has been credited for his leadership in balancing five two-year state budgets and in building a multi-billion dollar “rainy day” fund to be tapped in fiscal emergencies.

In other party primary runoff results, incumbent Republican U.S. Sen. John Cornyn will face Dallas businessman Dr. David M. Alameel, a Democrat, in the November general election. Alameel won the primary runoff with 72 percent of the vote to Kesha Rogers of Houston’s 28 percent. Jim Hogan of Cleburne won the Democratic runoff for agriculture commissioner over Richard S. “Kinky” Friedman. Hogan’s opponent in November will be former state Rep. Sid Miller of Stephenville, who beat former state Rep. Tommy Merritt of Longview in the GOP runoff. State Sen. Ken Paxton of McKinney, with 63.6 percent of the vote, won the GOP runoff for attorney general against state Rep. Dan Branch of Dallas, who received 36.4 percent. Pasadena oil, gas and petrochemical consultant Ryan Sitton won the GOP runoff for a seat on the three-member Texas Railroad Commission in a contest with former state Rep. Wayne Christian of Center.

Greenville physician Dr. Bob Deuell, a long-serving member of the Texas Senate, was defeated by 300 votes in a runoff against Bob Hall of Edgewood. And, incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Ralph Hall of Rockwall, with 47.2 percent of the vote, lost in his runoff bid against John Ratcliffe, who received 52.8 percent. The outcome of this runoff was reported in the national news. Hall, 91, is a World War II veteran and the oldest member of the U.S. House of Representatives. He was a Democrat when he first entered the House in 1981 and in 2004 switched to the Republican Party. Ratcliffe, who served under then-President George W. Bush as a U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Texas, also served eight terms as mayor of Heath, Texas, a municipality just south of Hall’s home in Rockwall, 30 minutes east of Dallas.

Coming up this month are state party conventions during which nominations will be made official. The Republican State Convention will be held at the Fort Worth Convention Center fromJune 5-7 and the Democratic State Convention will be held June 26-28 at the Dallas Convention Center.

Hearing focuses on impeachment

Steps toward impeachment of University of Texas System regent Wallace Hall of Dallas continued May 21 when the House Select Committee on Transparency in State Agency Operations met. Earlier in May the panel voted to move forward in processes leading toward having Hall removed from office.

The panel and the state’s Public Integrity Unit have been investigating Hall for nearly a year to determine if the regent misused his office in an attempt to have UT President William Powers Jr. fired. Invited to testify was Jeff Archer, Texas Legislative Council assistant executive counsel who explained the framework for developing articles of impeachment. Any member or group of members of the Legislature may confidentially submit a proposed article of impeachment, and submitted material would be parceled out to a trio of drafting attorneys, he said, adding that articles of impeachment drawn up by the House would be subject to review by Senate.

Texas House Parliamentarian Chris Griesel testified, saying the House could be called back into session by either by proclamation of the governor or by a majority of members of the House. If the committee were to adopt articles of impeachment to present for consideration in the House, steps would have to be taken such as publication of notice in newspapers giving the particulars of a special convening of the Legislature, Griesel said.

There is a record of how the Legislature has handled such matters, Griesel said, in the 1917 impeachment of Gov. James A. Ferguson and in the 1975-76 impeachment of state District Judge O.P. Carrillo. But there is no record of an impeachment of an appointed state official. Hall was appointed a six-year term as a UT regent by Gov. Rick Perry in 2011.

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More from Regional News.

As graduation approached, a high school senior wrote on the whiteboard, “11 days until graduation!!” Someone drew a line through “graduation” and changed the sentence to read, “11 days until freedom!!” In one U.S. History course a study packet was prepared and handed out to the students. It was designed to help students prepare to pass the state required “End of Course” exam. As I looked it over, I was impressed with the content. It would make a great study guide not only for high school but for college as well. It contained concise information about people, places, documents, dates, movements, wars, politics, geography and social issues. It had internet resources for further study. I was disappointed when I found many of the packets were either left on desks or thrown on the floor. Some were tossed into trash cans in the hall.

I have known many students who get caught up in the exciting new social life at college. Their objectives are to get a degree and to have lots of fun in the process. Rather than paying the daily price of conscientious study and preparation for classes, they seldom buy textbooks, let alone read them. Their preparation for tests involves intensive cramming sessions in which they memorize summaries and then regurgitate the information for tests. After that, they can forget what they have “learned.” Using this “clever” study philosophy they consistently receive good grades and many even graduate with honors.

But sooner or later they have to pay the price for their short-sightedness. Eventually, competition among students, or fellow workers, becomes stiff. They find that other students or workers seem far more informed than they; they seem to be able to think more clearly, to analyze, and to create. All of a sudden thinking and decision-making is all important along with the ability to communicate. They wake up and ask themselves, “What have I done? I have deceived myself. My old short-cut techniques won’t work here. What do I do now?” They try to shift the responsibility, blaming their alma maters, their teachers, and then in honesty--themselves.

The laws governing mental or social or spiritual development are as immutable and unswerving in their spheres as are the laws governing physical development. It’s called the Law of the Harvest. You don’t become a great NBA basketball player overnight; you must pay a price. People grow mentally, socially, emotionally, and spiritually only to the degree they obey on a daily basis the laws governing such growth. “There is a law irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated—And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated. (D&C 130:20-21.) Ralph Waldo Emerson said that “every act rewards itself.”

Nations are also subject to basic principles. You can absolutely rely on this—a nation cannot violate basic principles with impunity, that is, without paying the price, any more than an individual can violate basic principles with impunity. We hear a lot of economic and political arguments going on around the country today. We hear words like “socialism,” “free enterprise,” “the welfare state,” “states’ rights,” “federal control,” “human rights,” “property rights,” and “communism,” Sometimes we wonder what these words mean because they are used with such a variety of meaning.

There appears to me, though, to be a trend to shift responsibility for life and its processes from the individual to the state. In this shift there is a general violation of the Law of the Harvest, or the law of justice. The attitude of “something for nothing” is encouraged. The government is often looked to as the source of wealth. There is the feeling that the government should step in and take care of one’s needs, one’s emergencies, and one’s future.

Just as students can become slaves to their own ignorance and bad habits by refusing to accept responsibility for their own education and moral growth, so, also, can an entire people be imperceptibly transferred from individuals, families, and communities to serfs of the Federal Government.

If you deprive a man of his right to fail in the righteous use of his property, you also deprive him of his right to succeed. If you remove from a man his right to “go to hell,” you likewise remove his free agency to go to heaven. Under a free enterprise economy, a little more than 6 percent of the population has produced nearly half of the world’s goods. To sap the self-reliant spirit of enterprising independent souls in the development of a welfare state can bring only “poverty equally divided.” When the responsibility for our own welfare is completely shifted from the shoulders of individuals and families to the state, a lethal blow is struck at both the roots of our prosperity and our moral growth. When we as a people do not use our freedoms responsibly and righteously, we will gradually lose these freedoms.

Just as high school students yearn for “freedom”, if we ignore basic principles in our desires for freedom from fear, we are sowing the seeds of slavery and we will reap the harvest even though we might rationalize to ourselves, “I am free.” “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap (Galatians 6:7). (Based on a discourse by Howard W. Hunter, March 8, 1966)

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More from Mustard Seeds.

Amaya Avants, Josie White, Jenna White, Antonia O’Neill, Shanon O’Neill, Kendall Kramer, Kylene Kramer, Court Krause, Cash Krause, Riley Rust, Shane Rust, Crystal McKee, Emily Boylan, Emma Watson, Brandon Phipps, Rachel Arnold, Allison King, Chane Klopper, Alley Penshorn.

The final go-round of the Buckle Series Youth Play Day at the Blanco Cowboy Church was held Sunday, June 1st, following the morning worship service and lunch.

We were blessed with many cowboys and cowgirls competing for the five buckles and all of the youth are congratulated for their great sportsmanship as they “rode for Jesus.” Thanks also go out to the leadership and helpers who made it all possible.

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

Hi-Point Buckle Winners were; Assisted Pee-Wee Riley Rust, Unassisted Pee-Wee Jenna White, Sub-Jr Court Krause, Jr Shanon O’Neill, Sr Chane Klopper.

Glenn Rust Sr also donated $100 to award $20 cash to each Hi-Point Buckle winner.

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More from Focus on Faith.

Hey Kids! Join us for our Fizz, Boom, Read Summer Reading program! Kids ages 6 and younger, you can win prizes for every 10 books you read! Kids ages 7 and older can win prizes for every 10 hours you read! We have programs for kids ages 4-10 every week this summer:

June 1st – August 2nd, 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

June 6th- How Does Your Garden Grow?, June 13th- Spiders!, June 20th- Soda Experiments, and June 27th- Bubble Fun.

July 3rd- Building Circuits with PEC (Pre-sign up required), July 11th- Magnetic Attraction, July 18th- Mystery Science, July 25th- Closing Party!

Do you have free time on your hands? Do you want to get to know your neighbors? Then signup to be a volunteer at the Blanco Library! We have many opportunities available. Stop by the library June 16th-21st during our Volunteer Signup Week to learn more!

Check out our Photo Contest Rules on our Home Page! Winner receives a FREE KINDLE! As always, remember to check our website at www.blancolib.org or call us at 830-833-4280 for more information.

Recently Added Bestsellers: Accused by Lisa Scottoline, Afterburn/Aftershock by Sylvia Day, Aimless Love by Billy Collins, Americanah by Chimamanda Adichie, Dark Lycan by Christine Feehan, Deadly Heat by Richard Castle, Gabriel’s Redemption by Sylvain Reynard, Moving Target by Judith A. Jance, Returned by Jason Mott, Tatiana by Martin Cruz Smith, and Walking Dead: Rise of the Governor by Robert Kirkman.

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More from Community News.

Dr. Kenneth L. Schramm (3rd from left), Debbie Schramm (2nd from left), and Dr. Scott Jurica (left) receive the Blanco Chamber of Commerce’s Night Sky-Friendly Business Certificate of Merit Tuesday from Curtis Knutson, Chamber President (2nd from right) and Libbey Aly, Chamber Executive Director (right). Not Pictured: Retta Martin, Chairperson, Blanco Historic Commission.

Dr. Kenneth Schramm, Debbie Schramm, and newly-arrived associate, Dr. Scott Jurica, were presented the Blanco Chamber of Commerce’s Night Sky-Friendly Business Certificate of Merit by Curtis Knutson, Chamber President, on Tuesday, June 3, 2014. The outdoor lighting fixtures on Dr. Schramm’s office on Highway 281 just off Blanco’s Square now comply fully with Blanco’s Unified Development Code in that they do not shine above the horizon to cause light pollution in Blanco’s skies nor do they cause any significant glare off premises.

Upon receiving the Certificate of Merit, Dr. Schramm stated, “Dr. Jurica, my wife, Debbie, and I fully support preserving the Hill Country’s nighttime skies. The health, well being, and enjoyment of all Blanco citizens is significantly enhanced by a dark night sky. We are glad we could help out in even a small way by making sure all our outdoor lights are night sky-friendly.”

The Chamber’s Night Sky-Friendly Business Recognition Program now has nine local businesses that have been singled out for recognition. Curtis Knutson, Chamber President, stated “The Chamber is delighted that another of our members has qualified to be a Night Sky-Friendly Business. We make these recognitions in conjunction with the Hill Country Alliance, so we’re part of a Hill Country-wide effort in night sky preservation. We hope our entire membership will eventually follow the Schramm’s good example.”

Because Dr. Schramm’s office is situated in Blanco’s Historic District, the outdoor lighting at the office is particularly important. Retta Martin, Chairperson of Blanco’s Historic Commission, emphasized this point stating, “Having good outdoor lighting in Blanco’s Historic District is essential to maintaining the unique, rural ‘sense of place’ that is the Blanco we all love. Businesses such as the Schramm’s that place high value in preserving our night skies by controlling their outdoor lighting also preserve our rural heritage. This is something we should all greatly appreciate.”

For more information about the Chamber’s program and how to become a Night Sky-Friendly business, contact the Blanco Chamber of Commerce at (830) 833-5101; info@blancochamber.com. For information on how to join, for free, the Hill Country Alliance’s Night Sky Co-op, go to www.hillcountryalliance.org/HCA/HillCountryNightSkyCoop.

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More from Community News.

Dear Editor,

I recently attended a very interesting neighborhood meeting at Middle Creek Ranch concerning the proposed development of a Bridge over the creek. Most those attending, were not in favor of building the bridge for many legitimate concerns and issues.

Paul Grandberg attended this meeting and gave his justification for building the bridge, which seemed to mostly concern his view of our safety. The Commissioner noted that landowners in favor of the bridge, Ms. Lane and The Franklin Ranch, have agreed to donate a portion of their ranch land so the bridge could be built.

After hearing all the concerns of the neighborhood the Commissioner said he was still going to approve the bridge. So much for citizen input. I have little doubt that the bridge will be built given the political support it apparently has. Is this the Obama Bridge?

But I do have one simple road safety recommendation. About a quarter of a mile down the creek road, there is a sign exclaiming that truckers should not follow this road etc.

Tour Buses and 18-wheelers can not get across the creek and there is no place for them to turn around. So once on the road and discovering the county sign they have to back up all the way through several curves to 290 West or CR 165. I would suggest putting the sign right at the intersections of Middle Creek road and the above roads. To me there just seems to be no sense in having a sign in the middle of the lake that says “no swimming”.

James Karhan

Blanco, Tx

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More from Opinion.

Dear Editor,

While there has never been a fatality, accident, or flooding issue on Middle Creek Road, County Commissioner Paul Granberg seems bound and determined to have his way, with a proposal for an 80’ concrete bridge to be erected over Middle Creek, all in the interest of “safety”.

About the only “safety” issue for folks living near Middle Creek right now is the occasional horse or cow that escapes from the pasture for greener grass along the road.

The construction of a bridge will become more of a safety issue for everyone who live in the area. Gravel/cement trucks going to and from will become a noise nuisance and a traffic hazard. Once the bridge is built, it becomes an “attraction” to teenagers and others who have no business there. As soon as motorcyclists find out there is a “fast way” across the creek and a cut through to Hwy.290, residents along Middle Creek will no longer be able to experience the quiet and peace of the area.

Mr. Granberg estimates engineering costs at $69,000 and construction costs upwards of $500,000 AT THE TAXPAYERS’ EXPENSE. At a recent homeowners’ meeting where a “show of hands” clearly reflected a majority AGAINST the bridge, Mr. Granberg apologetically inferred that the project is still going through. Isn’t this decision up to the voters/taxpayers of Blanco County?

It seems to me (and MANY other folks who care about the preserving the natural beauty of Middle Creek), that that amount of money should be used towards flood prone areas like Chimney Valley Road or CR 406 where flooding accidents and fatalities have occurred. Why not build a bridge where it’s needed?

Sincerely,

Tracy & Mark Barr

Blanco, Texas 78606

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More from Opinion.

Read Acts 20:28-32. Verse 32 says, “And now, brethren, I commend (commit, entrust) you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up (edify), and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.” Last week we talked about the fact that by God’s grace (goodwill, loving kindness; and unmerited favor) - through faith - we are declared righteous (justified, in right standing with God). This week, we will look at three more aspects of grace: 1. We are to grow in it. 2. We are to be strong in it. 3. It is sufficient for us. Let’s get into God’s Word!

1. We are to grow in grace: 2Pe 3:18 encourages us to grow (increase, become greater) in grace, and in the knowledge (knowing) of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Truly, one is the result of the other. Knowing Jesus is essential. As we grow and increase in the knowledge of Jesus, we will grow in God’s grace. Knowing Jesus is not just knowing about Him (though, that is a start), but it is coming to know Him personally. I know (about) the Governor, but I don’t really know the Governor. They are two different things.

In one sense, we already have the fullness of God’s grace in Christ, and grace upon grace (Jn 1:16). All the fullness of the Godhead dwells in Jesus, and Jesus dwells in us. However, we must grow in our knowledge of it. The more we come to know & understand Jesus Christ, the more we will grow in the knowledge of His grace that is in us and upon us. Grace and peace are multiplied unto you through what? Through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord (2Pt 1:2-3). This knowledge is eternal life: Jn 17:3 “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.”

2. We are to become strong in God’s grace: 2Ti 2:1 “Thou therefore, my son, be strong (strengthened, empowered, enabled, increased) in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” We are to act like men, and be strong - 1Cor 16:13. We are to be strong in faith - Rom 4:20. We are to be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might - Eph 6:10. We become strong in grace, by growing in grace. We grow in grace, by growing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. We grow in the knowledge of Jesus, by being students of His Word and through prayer.

We have no more relationship with God, than we do to His Word. We know no more of God, than we know through His Word. His words are spirit and life (Jn 6:63). God speaks to us by His Word, and we speak to Him in prayer. It is a relationship. We must be students of God’s Word, to really know Jesus. Of course, this does not mean we should only have an intellectual knowledge of Him; but through the renewing of our minds, our lives are transformed. Through first the intellect, we can come to know Jesus intimately. This is the purpose.

If God says to be strong in grace, that means it is not a secondary issue. It is of utmost importance. If someone says, “Be strong in this… ”, it means focus more attention on this and really get it down pat. Everything in God’s Word is of value, but some things are more important than others. When He says be strong in something, we need to be strong in it! Do not be weak in grace. Get strong in God’s goodwill, loving-kindness, and unmerited favor!

3. God’s grace is sufficient: 2Co 12:9 “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient (to be possessed of unfailing strength; to be strong; to be enough) for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” What does this mean? Quite simply, God’s grace is more than enough to carry you through and give you the victory in any and every circumstance in life. Even when you are mentally weak; physically weak; or spiritually weak - His grace is more than strong enough to put you over. We can glorify God in every circumstance, because we know we have the victory!

When we acknowledge our complete weakness, lack, and inability in ourselves to live the Christian life, God’s strength can then be showcased in our lives. We must acknowledge our weakness, but not exalt it. We must exalt Jesus’ strength, and all He is in us and through us. Eyes on us - failure. Eyes on Jesus - victory. Until next time, rejoice in The Lord!

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More from Focus on Faith.

Editor, I’d like to say Thank You to the Blanco Police Department for providing support in regards to a potentially dangerous situation with a tenant agent at one of my properties.

Sincerely, Janet Fisher

Blanco, TX

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More from Opinion.

Toward the end of 2008 what was billed as the world’s most expensive new book went on display at the New York Public Library. There are more expensive old books, but this is a new book produced by the Italian publisher Marilena Ferrari. It’s cost: over $100,000! The book depicts the life and work of Michelangelo, including photographs of his drawings and sculptures, creations from the Sistine Chapel, and his personal poetry. It weighs 62 lbs, has a front cover of white marble, and is covered with red silk velvet. Its paper is from one of Italy’s oldest paper mills – the mill where Picasso bought his art paper. Each book takes six months to make and comes with a 500-year warranty!

There is another book more precious and more valuable than all books. It is sealed with that which is more costly than silver and gold, for it is sealed with the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, as Jesus said, “this is my blood of the covenant”, when instituting the Lord’s Supper (Matthew 26:26-28). The New Testament is that covenant (Hebrews 9:15-17), which became effective with the death of Christ. The warranty on this book is everlasting, for it is the word of the Lord that abides forever (I Peter 1:25). To access the Way of Salvation as revealed therein, the Word of God teaches us that we must place our faith and trust in Jesus (John 8:24), turn from our sins in repentance (Acts 17:30-31), confess Jesus before men (Romans 10:9-10), and be baptized (immersed) into Christ for the forgiveness of our sins (Acts 2:38). Then, as we walk in the light as He is in the light, the blood of Jesus continues to cleanse us from all sin (1 John 1:7). God’s word is THE most important Book! Read it to be wise, believe and obey it to be saved, and practice it to be holy. Come and learn of God’s love and His plan for your salvation.

To request a free non-denominational Bible correspondence course or to ask a Bible question call 830-833-4884 or email bcc102@gmail.com - No personal contact will be made unless requested.

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More from Focus on Faith.

“1 Oh that my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night for the slain of the daughter of my people!

2 Oh that I had in the wilderness a lodging place of wayfaring men; that I might leave my people, and go from them! For they be all adulterers, an assembly of treacherous men.

3 And they bend their tongues like their bow for lies: but they are not valiant for the truth upon the earth; for they proceed from evil to evil, and they know not me, saith the Lord.

4 Take ye heed every one of his neighbour, and trust ye not in any brother: for every brother will utterly supplant, and every neighbour will walk with slanders.

5 And they will deceive every one his neighbour, and will not speak the truth: they have taught their tongue to speak lies, and weary themselves to commit iniquity.

6 Thine habitation is in the midst of deceit; through deceit they refuse to know me, saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 9:1-6

I like learning God’s personality in the book of Jeremiah. He reveals Himself and we can feel how much He loves us and yearns for us to turn to Him so He can shower us with blessings! Fall in love with God by reading His Word!

“29 And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:

30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.

31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.

32 And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he:

33 And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.

34 And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.” Mark 12:29-34

If we loved our neighbors as ourselves we wouldn’t be lying, cheating, stealing or killing. If we turned to God for our healing instead of other gods, we’d receive His blessings and learn of His goodness. It may be that some just don’t know how to love God. Perhaps, if you’re not sure, you can ask God to draw you to Him. Jesus said God has to draw us.

“43 Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves.

44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.

45 It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.” John 6:43-45

So there you have it. “Every man therefore that hath heard and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.”

Could it be that we must “hear” a preacher or a teacher or SOMEONE (even if it is our own selves!) speaking about God by preaching (sharing) His truth, His Word? Better go to church or read your bible out loud!

Matthew 11:15 “15 He who has ears to hear, let him be listening and let him consider and perceive and comprehend by hearing.”

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12

He wants us all to be saved. But unfortunately, many place their faith, love and trust in other people who will always let us down. If we place our life, dreams & expectations in someone else’s hands, eventually that person will let us down, and it may be by no fault of theirs, but could simply be just by their death. Only God can be here for us when we need a friend or a miracle! Only He will keep our secrets and only He can save us from eternal damnation, from the fiery pit of hell.

Jesus saves! Jesus heals! Jesus reigns! Learn of Him and fall in love with Him!

Jeremiah 9:24 “24 But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exercise loving kindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord.”

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More from Focus on Faith.

I would like to reflect on and give my gratitude to the Patriots of WWII; living and deceased. In Remembrance of all you gave and sacrificed, for our country, We Thank You.

This week in history; we remember D - DAY, June 6, 1944.

The Allies landed on the beaches of Normandy, France - resulting in a devastating blow to Germany. Looking back 70 years ago this week. D -Day still remains the largest seaborne invasion in history, involving close to 3 million allied troops crossing the English Channel from England to the Normandy shores in France. These troops consisted mainly of American, United Kingdom, and Canadian Forces. The allied forces had to cross 100 miles of the English Channel before they would even storm the heavily fortified coast of France which was guarded, by a well seasoned German force. This coast line was also known as The Atlantic Wall. The D - Day landing was made up of allied forces; which would be the first successful landing of troops across the English Channel in 9 centuries.

But it would be a costly crossing!

The Invasion started in the darkness of morning and by nightfall of June 6, 1944; the cost would be high - over 9,000 men would be dead and many more wounded. Yet 157,000 soldiers made it ashore and established a foothold on the French shore by the end of the first day. By June 30, 1944 over 57,000 Allied soldiers had given their lives fighting against the Germans at the Battle of Normandy.

My Prayer is that we never forget the cost of freedom and those that paid the price, either with their lives or with their suffering. In our countries past wars, as well as our current war! The veterans cost is great.

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More from Features.

Ten years ago I donned a cap and gown, marched myself down a long walkway, shook a couple hands, and received my high school diploma on stage. This year I got to watch two people I love do the same; my sister graduated from High School, and my son graduated from Kindergarten.

As a society, we make a big deal out of graduations. “Hey young person, here is a piece of paper that is allowing you to move on to the next part of your life.” They do that for inmates too. “Hey reformed criminal, here is your piece of paper that says you can rejoin society.” We do it for people in love. “Hey couple, here is your piece of paper that says you two are really together.” We even have papers to certify birth and death. That’s a lot of paper for us to keep track of.

Don’t get me wrong, I was filled with a lot of pride while watching my sister and son cross their respective stages. My son’s little laminated diploma is precious and currently on the fridge for general display and bragging rights. I realize there are plenty of justifiable and legal reasons for these papers.

My point here is this: I have accomplished a bunch of other stuff since my high school graduation, and I don’t need any pieces of paper to prove it.

Most of them are not real, physical things, but more like emotional “graduations”. There are topics my husband and I have fought over enough that we finally (hopefully) have it “figured out”. I no longer get bothered when my son mixes up all the lego pieces to create a five headed Captain Ninja Turtle Hobbit Jack Sparrow monster. I brush it off when someone I love says something hurtful when I know it wasn’t really about me, but a vent on other issues. I recently allowed myself to buy something I really, really wanted, even though it was expensive and I didn’t actually “need” it. Ok, I got a receipt for that one, but still, where are all my Diplomas?

I’m pretty proud of my Mini Emotional Graduations, as I’ve decided to call them. I think they’re important, even if no one else does. That’s right! I’m an adult, and I have to be my own Cheerleader. Sure everyone loves some congratulations here and there, but if I’m not telling myself that I’m doing a good job, then why should I expect anyone else to?

So here’s my message to the class of ‘14; Whatever you do with the rest of your life, there isn’t ever going to be enough people who are genuinely interested, proud, or as crazy about what you’re doing, to make you feel completely validated. So, do your thing well, work hard at it, and challenge yourself to go above your own expectations of your work. When you do, go straight to a mirror and say, “Heck of a job, me! I is awesome!” When you believe it, really deep down in the heart of your soul believe it, then you won’t need someone, or a piece of paper, to say... Congrats Grad!

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More from Oh, Honestly.

I sustained various and sundry injuries today and have been left feeling as if I’ve been tossed about in a washing machine. During the process of sustaining my injuries, I cried out for help…you know “Help!” Funny thing is; the person to whom I cried out gave no aid. So I was left to manage unassisted. It was difficult. I felt as though I might not be able to make it through my personal trauma, but am happy to say, I’m in one piece, though scraped, bruised and slightly twisted.

Such it is with so many struggles; we may feel not up to the task and we need help. Maybe help is a calorie counter, a workout buddy, money for gym membership, a new set of DVD’s. Maybe help is a trainer, a new pair of shoes, new workout clothes or a new diet. Whatever the help is, for which we call, the help may or may not be the answer and in some cases, may not be available in our time of need.

So, what to do? Today, I struggled through a painfully difficult moment in time and am grateful I truly did live to tell the tale. I learned that, although “the struggle makes you stronger”, it’s important to practice that struggling in advance so when put to the test, you’re ready to withstand a real life challenge. When no one will come to support and assist, you need a back-up plan. If you can’t afford that gym membership; use the local park. If you don’t have a workout buddy; ask a neighbor, or post on your Facebook page to find one. If you can’t afford the new shoes; run in the sand or grass.

When your first call for help goes unanswered, call again, and this time, you pick up the phone. Don’t wait on someone else to come to your aide. They may not be there for you. YOU be there for you! And you know what? Bruises heal. Cuts and scrapes mend. Things that once were twisted can become straight and perfected. Our bodies are amazing! Bodies can perform various and sundry activities. Discover one or more that you love and start to practice your personal struggling. That way, when the real life struggle comes along, you’ll be ready for it.

Sally Windham is an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor in Blanco, TX. Please send questions and comments to sally.windham@yahoo.com

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More from Fit Tips.

Blanco will have a wonderful opportunity on July 13 to hear well known birder and traveler, Bob Warneke, speak on the subject Migration: Birders Should Do It Too. The event will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. The talk will be followed by a gourmet dinner. A raffle and silent auction will help raise money for Blanco’s Good Samaritan Center and New Life Children’s Center in Canyon Lake. Tickets are limited and include the talk, dinner and one raffle ticket.

As well as being a great traveler and excellent speaker, Mr. Warneke is a recognized national leader in the area of conservation. He served three terms on the board of the American Birding Association and is presently president of the board of the Malcolm C. Damuth Foundation which is an organization devoted to acquisition and protection of natural habitats around the country. He also serves on the board of the Texas Conservation Alliance.

For more information and to purchase tickets please call 830 833-4771 Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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More from Community News.

This is the beginning of spring produce harvest. Pick your vegetables in the cooler part of the day. Pick your produce in their prime before they grow too large and become tough and bitter.

Your tomatoes may have black and brown spots on the bottom. This is called Brown root disease. This is a problem caused by irregular watering. Split skins, on tomatoes is caused by the same thing. Correct watering is deeper and less often. An inch, once a week is correct for your entire landscape, except in pots.

Bitter cucumbers and eggplant is due to stress. Increase water and fertilize and pick while they are small.

This is the season to seed Bermuda grass and other sun-loving grasses. Seed only an area, in the sun, that is large enough to water everyday, until the seed has germinated and begins to grow. Then move to another area. If you are using sod pieces for a lawn, it must be kept wet until the roots and soil have connected, about 10-14 days.

The rain will do wonders for our lawn and gardens, but don’t forget the fertilizing and mulch. The mulch all lawns, trees, shrubs, and flowers should be watered one inch deep, once a week. The mulch will help control the moisture. For container plants, using ¼ of the fertilizer each time you water, is considered a good way to fertilize. Organic alternatives are; cottonseed meal, fish emulsion, seaweed extract, and compost tea.

Learn to read and follow directions on product labels. They are the result of years of research.

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More from Keep Blanco Beautiful.