Don't Compare

     The other day I found out something about someone and began to compare my blessings with theirs.  It was the devil at work in my mind.  I thought why do I care?  I wasn't envious because I never wanted that situation in my life.  It did try to rob me of the blessings in my life, until I got my perspective back on track.  How did I do that?  I started naming off the blessings in my life.  An instant joy booster.
     Comparison is only good for price shopping, nothing else.  If you compare your looks to a model's picture on a magazine, you'll lose confidence in your own beauty.  Einstein said, 'if you judge a fish by its inability to climb, it will live its whole life believing it is stupid.'  We are all given different abilities to journey on our different paths.  Don't sell yourself short because your blessed in a different way.  Embrace your uniqueness.
      If you must compare yourself to someone, choose your past self to the current one.  It should show growth and maturity both physically and spiritually.
      'Don't compare yourself to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.'

Shine On

     I have wanted to write this blog for some time now but have waited for the right caption to go with the story.
     My friend's mother, Paula, found out that her neighbor was in desperate need of a kidney transplant.  Paula wanted to do whatever she could to help her so she participated by signing up on the organ donor list.  She didn't know how or who it would help.  Well the Cleveland Clinic found several matches, 8 I think, where it would work like a chain reaction.  On Feb. 14, 2012, Paula's kidney went to someone in California but as part of the swap, her neighbor got a kidney too.
      I asked Paula how she could literally give so much of her self to someone else?  She said she felt blessed with good health from God and that He would protect her in wherever it took her.  She also realized He might call her home sooner by doing this but that was okay too if this brought Him glory.
     What an example of light to others in this dark world of selfishness.  I hope the organ donation story has/will touch so many people thru all of its duration as an example of 'love your neighbor as thyself' to the n-th degree. 
     May you be a shining example today in whatever you do to help someone else out....shine on!

A Desire for More

     This past Monday night we completed our women's Bible study on the Book of Revelation.  I can tell you alot of it surpassed my mind but it did reassure me that God does have a plan and it will all come to be one day.
     We ended with combining both Rev 21 and 22, which both relate to what heaven will be like.  Rev 21;1  ''Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.''  Rev 21;3-4  '' And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.  ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
     As the caption implies, there is so much more to put our hope and trust in that this world cannot begin to give.  I think of us like a baby in the womb.  We are created for so much more but in His timing only will he push us into that new realm.  He does give us a taste thru the Word of a preview of what is to come.  Isn't it exciting?  'This world is not my home, I'm just a passing thru.'  As I look ahead, I trust He's got my back.

Not Forgotten

     Have you ever felt forgotten?  I call it the 'back burner syndrome' when everything you want to do gets put on the back burner till later but then it's forgotten. 
     Sometimes our relationships can take this road, especially long distance ones.  Keeping in touch is not easy and takes work.  Before I moved back here, I made sure to bring with me some of my forget-me-not plants from my yard that one of my friends had given me.  We planted them here and remind me of my friendships that I cherish from Springfield.
     God never forgets us.  We are the ones that need reminded of Him by prayer and His Word.  We ask Him to draw near to us and yet we are the ones that pull away.  If our plea truly is to have a closer walk with Thee, then we must recognize His ever presence with us, His unfailing love for us and His good plan/will for us.
     ''Our total being--mind, will, emotions, personality, and physical body--are to be turned over to our heavenly Father (James 4:7a). Submitting ourselves to the Lord requires a definite decision to give Him control and a daily commitment to remain under His authority. By surrendering to Him, we will position ourselves for godly living.''  from intouch.org

Way Back Wednesday-----3rd Grade Art

    

     Well I have blogged before about Mrs. Bowen's third grade class but here the picture is included.  Mrs. Bowen was a great teacher because she had love and discipline balanced perfectly.  That means she was full of praise and patience but didn't take any crap.
     I remember most from her class, two art projects.  One was using butter lids to make coasters or pot holders.  We glued different types of beans onto the underside of the lid in a concentric pattern.  The other project was gluing different colors of rice onto an 11x12 piece of wood that had an animal traced onto it.  My project was a bald eagle.  It was a tedious task using a toothpick to line the rice up to make it look like smooth feathers but it was fun.
      They say the Earth without 'art' is just 'Eh.'  I think Mrs. Bowen instilled an appreciation for art in me.  The projects also taught me to finish a project,  especially ones that take a long time to complete.

Gentleness

     ''You're being too rough with me!''   I've heard it, thought it, and said it before.  I think this is how impatience shows its ugly head.  It's not an easy thing to be at the mercy of the hands of someone else. Have you ever played that game where you fall backwards into someone else's arms?  It's supposed to teach you trust but sometimes we aren't given the choice.  We have to trust and hope they're gentle.   Sometimes we think we can make a square peg go thru a round hole, if we just force it a little more. 
      I think the caption above uses a cat as a prime example of gentleness.  Have you ever tried to catch a cat?  It does take a gentle touch with a patient hand.  They are quick and know when you're up to something. When we share the Word with others, we must use gentleness in our approach or the listener may too run off.   Donald Gee, gave another illustration I like. ''A guide was taking a group of visitors through a factory. One of the things he showed them was a giant steam hammer capable of flattening an automobile. Then the guide put down a walnut and had the hammer break the shell without hurting the meat of the nut. What an illustration of gentleness as power under perfect control!''
     Gentleness is one of the fruits of the Spirit.  Therefore, it should play out in all areas of our lives.  Gentle words, gentle actions and gentle thoughts.  Philippians 4:5  ''Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.'' 
     ''In our daily lives we cannot help coming into situations that bring conflicts with people. It is easy for us in the natural to react with violence or anger, especially if we feel insecure in our position. But when we accept the reality of who we are in Christ and trust the Holy Spirit to help us, we can be gentle, whatever conflicts may arise.''

Colossians 3:12  ''Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.''

Happy Mother's Day

      HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to my Mom and all the other mothers who read this.  I thought this picture was appropriate to show my mom at what she does best.  I'm not skinny because of her cooking, that's for sure.  Love you Mom!

Changes

     We are all a work in progress.  Are you being tranformed into something better?  I think this caption gives good examples of how time and pressure can be of huge benefit.  We often think of everyday pressures as strife and yet they are useful to our spiritual and personal growth.  We also tend to just associate time with getting older but it should also bring wisdom. 
      For those of us with a few more miles, aren't you glad you're not the same as at age 20?  I guess that's where the phrase 'I wish I knew then, what I know now' comes from. 
      How gritty as sand and dirty as coal are we without His love and discipline to change our image into one like His?



Romans 12:2  ''Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.''

2 Corinthians 3:18  ''And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.''

The New Rude

     I'm sure you've heard of the 'new math' [yea I don't know what that means either], but this caption makes me think of the 'new rude' from people.  I am a big advocate of eye contact.  Of course, most people need to look at me to understand what I'm saying but I think it should be done with everyone.
     This reminds me of a story back when there were no cell phones.  For a couple of years, The Villa had a location here in Sherwood.  I went on a date there with a guy named Larry.  I didn't pay attention to our seating arrangement until a few minutes into the date.  The tv was in his line of sight over my head.  This does not leave a good impression.
      So now days, the ante of how rude can you be has been raised.  A large majority of people are hog-tied to their cell phones by which I mean they cannot move or function without it.  Emergencies are one thing, the rest can wait. Pay attention to who you're with or they will leave you there alone with just you and your phone.....or at least they should.

Routine

       This caption is so me!  I am a creature of habit and like to stick to a routine.  I like to rise at the same time, eat on schedule and do things a certain way.  I do like to mix it up a little with a change every now and then, like a vacation, but I do like to get back to the familiarity of things.  Some may think it's a sign of age but I think I've always been this way.
        One of our preachers brought up the topic of routine in his sermon the other day.  Traditionalism is what he called it.  Why do we do the things we do?  Are we going to church to worship with a seeking heart or going with a heart of habit?  Do we give donations to missionaries because it's that Sunday of the month or with a 'love thy neighbor as thyself' mentality?  We should do things not out of duty but out of the heart.
       I am not against traditions.  I think some family traditions are very important and have a special meaning to them.  I'm just warning about how some things can become rituals without any thought to or behind them.

Way Back Wednesday---Kindergarten Grad

     k

      Well I didn't know until now that I had a doctorate degree.  You can now start calling me Dr. Angie...lol..just kidding.  This was my first of three diplomas in my life. 
      We lived on Flagstone Street off of Kiehl Avenue back then, that's one street west of the skating rink.  I went to a private school called Lil People School for kindergarten and first grade.  I loved it.  They stayed open until 6pm to give parents time to get there after work to pick kids up.  They offered a variety of different after school classes.  I was first put into dance class with ballet and tap.  Well after discovering I had two left feet and no rhythm, I moved into baton class. You might notice in the picture that my shoes, that later became fashionable, were not a stylish statement by me.  These were corrective shoes that were a precursor to my braces.
       I think it's important to make education an important aspect in a child's life at an early age.  A lil graduation for a lil people group makes it fun and special.  Getting a good start to a hopefully long road of education is priceless.

Not In, Today

     Don't you hate it when you go somewhere for something specific and they are out of it? I wonder how far this little girl and her dog in the caption walked in the cold only to be disappointed.
     I've gone to Whole Hog Bbq for one of their pork loaded potatoes and found out that they had run out of them. What? No potatoes? That's what I had my heart set on and now nothing on the menu is going to taste as good.
     Another example is finding white jeans.  I think there are about two weeks in a year when you can find white jeans.  Why is that?  Apparently I missed it this year and am going to have to wait till next spring.
     How disappointed is God with us when He comes to us for something specific and we claim to just not have it in us that day?  Will He not give us the strength and provisions to do what He asks of us?  We can only blame our being 'out' on ourselves.  We each have so much to give that could bless someone else's life and to just keep it, is to waste it. 
     ''You may never know what results come from your action. But if you do nothing, there will be no result.''

A Rebel?

     Do you consider yourself a rebel?  For the most part I don't but I certainly have my rebellious areas.  I would define a rebel as one who thinks they have it under control, know best and reject authority's instruction.  An example of my rebel nature is definetely behind the wheel.  When I started driving to high school-- North Pulaski, my parents told me to take Kellogg road all the way to Hwy 107.  They didn't want me to take the shorter route, Oakdale road, because of the limited line of sight on the south side.  Well I don't remember going the long route one time because I was usually short on time.  Now most rebellious stories end with punishment but grace must have been with me because my secret never came to light or caused a problem.  I was probably extra cautious to make sure I didn't get caught.
      The Bible has many stories on rebellion to teach us to submit to His authority thru examples.  Surely the most well-known story is that of the Israelites.  God led them, protected them, and provided for them but they still questioned and disobeyed Him.  Rebellious? Most definetely.  Am I feeling more like a rebel in His eyes?  Most definetely. 
     Hopefully as I have progressed thru my journey here on earth, I've learned to become more submissive and less rebellious in my thoughts and ways.  The Israelites felt the consequences and so have I.  ''The rebel can never find peace. He knows what is good and, despite himself, does evil.'' 

     1 Samuel 15:23  ''For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has rejected you as king.”

Leap for Joy

     Frogs are in the air this weekend.  In Conway, Toad Suck Daze is kicking off the beginning of summer festivals here in Arkansas.  A relative's son won his preliminary round in the frog jumping contest yesterday when his frog crossed the finish line with two jumps.
     Do you remember playing leapfrog as a child?  We too can leap over obstacles in our lives with trusting God as our strength and shield.  I know my heart was leaping with joy yesterday when I was out yesterday for a good while without having to come home to cough.
     One way to give my thanks in song is by learning the new song, 'The Love of God,'  I got yesterday during my music lessons.  His love is measureless and pure.
     I'm going to toad-lly leave you with a hip-hoppin good day.

Ready for the Weekend

     Are you ready for the weekend?  When I worked, I just looked forward to some rest on the weekends.  Now, I look forward to it as a change of pace.  Maybe the chance to go out and do something different.  I always look forward to my friend that comes over on weekends, when she can.  I also have music lessons on Saturday mornings which is a joy to anticipate.  Of course, there is church on Sundays that can refuel me for the week ahead.
     A quote I love is  'Why is Monday so far from Friday, and Friday so near to Monday?'  You know the feeling.  The week when it drags on slower than a snail's pace and yet the weekend flies by faster than a F-14 plane.
     I hope you don't have to work this weekend and can do and enjoy the things you want to do.   HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!

Common Sense

     Has common sense not only left the building, but the Earth too?  Have you found it to be a scarce commodity too?  I read that it's so rare these days that it should be considered a superpower.
     Last night after church, we went to Tutti Fruitti to get my frozen yogurt fix.  [The coffee flavor is to die for..yum]  Anyways, it is in a strip mall along with a fitness gym.  As we drove past the gym, there were two ladies out there smoking after their workout.  Seriously?  Are you gasping for air from the workout or from the toxic fumes you're purposefully inhaling?  I'd bet on the smoke killing them faster than the fat.  I wonder if I am the look they are going for, skinny with a mask?  I don't recommend it.
     Another common sense question I personally get is 'does that go backwards?'  If I had a dollar for everytime I've driven my scooter on an elevator and been asked that..lol.  Of course I'm polite and say yes.
What I'm thinking tho is 'no, I'm gonna ride up and down for hours and wait for a miracle to get me out of here.'  Aren't you glad I don't say everything I think? lol
     The folks with the least amount of common sense are those who say there is no God. Even the devil knows that God exists.  His evidence surrounds us.  There is no where you can go without proof that He exists and created what's in front of you.  Psalm 89:8  ''Who is like you, LORD God Almighty? You, LORD, are mighty, and your faithfulness surrounds you.''

Way Back Wednesday---Golden Retrievers

     When I was a teenager, my idea to earn money was to raise golden retriever puppies.  So one Christmas morning I got a puppy that I named Wendy.  She kept my parents up most of that Christmas eve night.  She was a very good dog and turned out to be a great mother. She loved to be petted more than anything.  We later got another female, Misha, who wasn't a very loving mother so Wendy took care of those puppies too.
The puppy business worked out pretty well for me.  My parents did most of the work and I did most of the loving of  Wendy and the pups, then I got the loot after they were sold.  Even though we found good homes for the puppies, I hated and avoided the times when they left.
      Wendy passed away at an old age for dogs in June of 2001 right before I came back in August.  God's timing is always right and it made it easier on me to be far away. 

FBF PRAYER REQUESTS FOR MAY

FBF PRAYER REQUESTS FOR MAY 2012

  

DENNY NORRIS AND FAMILY........CANNON BEACH

1.        In our most recent update we asked you to pray for  Leonard, the husband of Sara.  We are grateful that he has been studying the Bible with me now for 2 months.  Two weeks ago, he had a birthday and his “friends” invited him to have a drink after work.  Since that time, he has been coming home late from work.  While we missed one week of Bible study, we are back on track.  But I sense that he is now struggling more to understand the gospel.  (We are currently doing a study in the gospel of John.)  Please pray that Leonard would be released from the dominion of Satan and be transferred to the kingdom of God’s Son (Acts 26:18; Col 1:13).  Sara and her 4 children had been encouraged to see him receive a bible study, but these last weeks daunted some of their hope.  Pray for them that God would give them encouragement and a good testimony with Leonard.

2.        Please continue to pray for the Jr. High and High-school Youth.    We now meet each Thursday morning before school at a Bagel & Coffee shop.  They are memorizing Scripture and we are studying the book of John.  Sometimes we can barely get to the Bible study because they have so many questions.  Pray that God will give them:  (1) a desire to live holy lives;  (2) that they would not being conformed to this world; and (3), that they would be faithfully reading God’s word (Rom. 12:1-2; I Pet 2:2).  These kids all go to public schools where they are surrounded by immorality and bombarded by worldly philosophy.   Some of them do not have the support of Christian parents and others have parents that are new in the faith. 

3.       We have 3 events coming up in our church where we will have the opportunity to give the gospel to unbelievers.  Please pray with us concerning the following events:  (1)  May 9, wedding of Misael & Reina;  (2)  June 9,  Sand Castle Weekend in Cannon Beach.  Our church will be entering the Sand Sculpturing event, passing out tracts, etc.;  and  (3),  June 29-30,  Evidence for  Creation Conference with Steve Hudgik (I’ll be translating into Spanish).

TED AND PRISCILLA CLARK

You may remember, many years ago, we asked prayer for doña Mari, an older woman in our village who is very hardened

and closed to the truth. She has threatened and prohibited her many grown children living nearby, from having anything to do

with us (spiritually).  In spite of this, one daughter, Josefina, has been listening and opening up more and more throughout the years. She attends

church quite frequently now, and we believe that she and one of her sons, Quico, have trusted Christ for salvation. She

recently asked prayer for her mother, who is discouraged and not feeling well. She has become a confirmed alcoholic. Pray

that the Lord would give us wisdom to reach out to her, and that the Holy Spirit would be at work in her heart, convicting her

of sin and pointing her to the Savior.

We also need prayer for the Lord’s wisdom and guidance as we have begun work on some major changes to the camp

 facilities, and are contemplating other big projects as well.  Our goal is to accommodate more people for the family

camps, as the current facilities cannot easily handle the 400 plus people who are eagerly signing up for these

camps. (This, in spite of the fact that around half of them stay in tents on the camp property!) We hate to turn

people away, but have been obligated to do so, several times, due to lack of space. This year, the Lord allowed

 us to expand the women’s bathroom in time for the Easter camp. The 4 toilets were increased to 10. We hope to

have four additional showers done by the next camp. Thank you for your prayers for us,

as we proceed with these projects in the coming months.

MARTIN AND HANSY TUOHY

1. Hansy is fighting a painful breast infection. Please pray she'll be able to nurse Markus successfully.

2. Our Mexican sister, Yuri, is traveling to Denmark today to help us out with the children for 7 weeks! Please pray for a spiritually fruitful time while she is here.

 

PHILIP AND SANDRA PRIME

 

1. Javier and his wife Josefina came to us by accident...his. A little more than 3 months ago he was struck by a car while crossing the road  and ended up in the emergency room. Josefina was desperate and looking for spiritual help when she began to talk to a Gudelia, who goes to our church and whose daughter-in-law was also in the emergency room. She took down the directions and ended up in our church the next Sunday morning. I began studying with them and it appears that they have come to faith in Christ. The prayer request has to do with the surgery on his fractured leg; it appears that they did a poor job setting it with the rod and screws (all exterior). He needs a second surgery but can't get anyone in the hospital where they have their insurance to do it. The bar and screws have been there for 3 1/2 months and counting. Pray that the Lord would use this injury for His glory and their good and that soon he could get the necessary/proper attention.

2. This Saturday evening the youth will be in our home for Bible study. We have also invited Chava and Nancy Vera and their 3 kids from Puruandiro to spend the weekend with us for fellowship and encouragement. Pray for Chava as he will share his testimony with the youth on Saturday and bring the message to our church on Sunday.

 

Lalalalala

     Who out there has not done this at some point?  haha.  I've done it when somebody is talking about a movie I want to see and I don't want it spoiled for me.  I've done it in my head when overhearing chronic complaining.  It can be a useful tool in a never ending, no win arguement. I've sang the lala's in songs when the writer of it was clearly at a loss for words.
     Maybe the 'lala' method would irritate the person who is using unpleasant words as much as their words bother us.  There is so much in this world that we should avoid hearing.
     Many people shut their ears like this to the gospel but it is not a wise decision.  It's just a way of ignoring and refusing to submit to His Word. Romans 10;17-18  'Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. But I ask: Did they not hear? Of course they did: “Their voice has gone out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.”'   Some people choose to 'lala' thru parts of the Bible too instead of accepting all of it.  You can't pick and choose what you like or don't like.  Deuteronomy 12:32  ''See that you do all I command you; do not add to it or take away from it.''
     I'll wrap this up not with a bunch of lala's but I prefer 'nananana hey heyyyyyy goodbye.'

I Gota Wear Shades

     Well this picture of Snoopy reminded me of a song from the 80's called 'My Future's So Bright, I Gota Wear Shades' by Timbuk3.  [ heres the link, http://youtu.be/8qrriKcwvlY ]  The song has been popular with graduations even tho the song is really about the threat of nuclear war.  As you know, graduation season is upon us next month.  I hope those that are graduating and moving on to their next phase in life have a plan in place with a guided sense of direction. 
     We can get caught up in the fear of war, earthquakes, or famine but the Bible tells us these things must happen before the end of times.  Luke 21;9-11  '' When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away. Then he said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.''  Believers have The Hope in their futures from the promises of God.  'I go to prepare a place for you.'  We should look forward without fear because our futures are too bright, even for RayBans, to shade it out. 
     Be sure before you graduate from this earth, that your heavenly plan is in place with His direction.

Be Soft

     It is easy to get caught up in the disappointments of this world.  A friend was talking today about how someone else had let them down by their actions.  They at first had the attitude to be done with them but soon recognized forgiveness was a better response.  People 'will' disappoint you in life, it's practicly guaranteed, but God 'never' will.  Without forgiveness, this would be a cold, uncaring, cruel world.  If we would recognize our own faults first before we point the finger, we'd be more tolerant and forgiving of others. Matthew 6:15 ''But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.''  The ultimate forgiveness is given to believers thru the blood on the cross when Jesus bore our sins in a once and for all sacrifice.  Acts 13:38  ''“Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.''
     Despite the trials and strife of life, there is always a positive, beautiful aspect to be seen.  Be better, not bitter. Be sweeter, not sour.  Be gentler, not harsher.  Be brighter, not darker.  May your focus be on all that is good in your world today and not the bad.

Strength

    I thought this caption was not only funny but had some truth to it.  As I just finished my music lessons as of a few minutes ago, I am once again reminded of my limited strength.  If I don't do as well as I'd like, my anger can fuel a little extra strength to try again. I suppose that's pride showing its face.

     So could I stab someone with enough anger and adrenaline?  Hmm, I hope so if a self-defensive case arose. I'm certainly for the death penalty so I think I could throw mercy aside.

     If we're going to be frankly honest, I've not only been stabbed but I've done some stabbing myself.   How?  The tongue can pierce like a knife. We often want to retaliate in some form.  Our actions often reflect an attitude of 'Im going to get them before they get me down' way of thinking.  It really doesn't make you feel better but leads to regret.  Romans 12:17-19  ''Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.  Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.''

     So not to sound like a hippie but 'Peace out.'

Special

     Yes, today was special.  I love days like this when friends come over just to visit.  We both made an effort to turn up the specialness notch a little bit today. I played two songs for them on my hammer dulcimer and one of her daughters played 'Ode to Joy' on the violin.  What a treat.  They enjoyed chocolate fondue with fruit, thanks to my parents setting it up.  We all had fun and enjoyed each others company.
     It doesn't take a lot of time or money to make someone's day a little different or special.  The rewarding feeling is priceless tho.  The best way to bring about happiness in your own life is to bring it to someone elses first.

Happy, Despite the Situation

     I thought this was a great quote to share. I think it's a good one to remember and live out. The sermon at my church last night was on 'your breaking point.'  In Joshua 7;6-9,  Joshua asks God why He didn't just leave well enough alone.  We often do that.  We say if I hadn't of done what I thought You wanted then this wouldn't of happened. For example, saying if I had not have tried to go to church then I wouldn't of had that wreck.  Our breaking points can be big or small.  We must trust in God's grace and mercy to see us thru it.
     We visited a friend today who has just went on hospice care due to cancer.  What a good attitude she had today that was probably displayed as much for our sake as her own.  I'm sure she is trying to enjoy this time as much as possible but is also comforted and happy to know she's headed to the Promised Land soon. 
     To see past our troubled situations and be joyful thru it, we must hand it all over to Him.  Psalm 68:19 'Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.'

Way Back Wednesday---Straighten Up

     Well let's go back 26 years to the summer of 1986, when I had back surgery at age 14.  You might be asking, why on earth would she put unflattery pictures like this on her blog?  Well as hard as it looks this was one of my biggest blessings in my life.  No, it sure doesn't look like it nor did it feel like it at the time.  I want to show you blessings come in all forms.

     As I grew up, I regularly had checkups at ACH to monitor the progression of my scoliosis. Around 14, Dr. McCarthy explained that it was time to intervene and discussed a new corrective procedure.  This involved putting two rods, one on each side of the spine, to straighten my back. Well this was a new surgery here at the time in Arkansas.  I think they were doing their second or third surgery later that week.  Well that wasn't enough experience for my parents to let them practice on me.  After researching the surgery, they found the Leatherman Spine Center in Louisville, KY.  My doctor/surgeon there was Dr. John Johnson.  I don't remember how many of these surgeries they had done there but something like a thousand.

     I don't remember a whole lot but I'll share the highlights.  My parents took me to Opryland before the surgery to ride all the roller coasters I wanted.  I remember giving, wait no they TOOK, my blood a day or two before.  The fear of that is quite vivid in my mind.  The next pre-op task was to lay on this machine that literally stretched you to see how straight they could get me.  They said tell us if it starts to hurt and we'll stop. Well have you ever told somebody to stop and they did.. about 3 minutes too late?  I know I said stop before I felt any pain, maybe that's why they did it twice.

     We didn't tell anyone, except my aunt and uncle in CA who came to KY for it, that I was having back surgery.  I don't know in hindsight, if that was the right decision but it was at my request and my parents agreed. 

     I remember reassuring my parents before going into the operating room, that I was going to be fine.  After going into the OR, I was worried that I was going to be on my stomach for x number of hours.  I don't sleep like that?  I just hadn't thought about it.  All I remember from the recovery room is seeing my parents for a split second and BANGING on the side rail for some pain medicine.  Pain meds, you gotta love them.  I think that's why my memory is so faded about this week. My mom did have a little 'Terms of Endearment' moment over getting my pain medicine to me during a shift change.  I also remember walking the halls with assistance and getting encouragement from the people I passed by.

     I also want to note the other people we met there.  I was only there for a week but others were there for months on end.  That will give you encouragement in itself.  It helps you look past yourself and have empathy for others.

     Friends of ours let us borrow their full size van to bring me home.  I had to remain flat.  When we got home, I was carried in by a sheet. This might have been the scariest part of the whole ordeal.  I spent that summer recovering and doing circles around kitchen.  A visible incentive to get better was being built in the backyard---the pool.

     So that is what I remember of the blessing that helped me continue on a little straighter. The blessing lives on because not once in the past 26yrs have I had any pain or problems from the rods.  God is good ALL the time.

Fear

I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. —Psalm 34:4

 

 

    After Bible study last night, we were all down in the basement watching one of my favorite movies, Places in the Heart.  I had recorded it off of tv so it had commercials in it.  As I was fast forwarding thru the ads, it was quiet and we all heard someone walking in the bedroom above.  We looked around and everyone was accounted for, us and the pets.  My dad went upstairs to get his pistol and search the upstairs. I told my mom to get the phone and be ready to call 911.  She thought about going upstairs too but I discouraged that knowing my dad could be easily startled and not knowing she was up there and would be trigger happy. As I waited with butterflies in my stomach, I remembered this caption. 'Do not be afraid.'  So I closed my eyes and said a prayer asking for God's hand of protection to cover us.  My dad came back down with nothing found so we watched the rest of the movie with the pistol within my dad's reach.

     After considering the possibilities as to what it might have been, my dad thinks it was probably an animal in the ceiling joists.  If that is true, then that is one fat, chunky squirrel or rat or whatever.  If it ever falls thru one of my ceiling lights, whoa, I may break out in revival like that Ray Steven's squirrel song...lol.

     There will always be things in this world that cause us to get scared but we have a Protector that is in control.  Do not be afraid but have that peace that everything will be okay.  Small things can test us to see where we turn in a scary situation. Turn to the Lord as fast as you can and the fear will pass.

 

 

Day by day and with each passing moment,

Strength I find to meet my trials here;

Trusting in my Father’s wise bestowment,

 I’ve no cause for worry or for fear. —Berg

 

Trust in the Lord is the cure for a fearful spirit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rest

     Well, this is me often enough.  Some people think I rest too much but I'll be the judge of that.  Our bodies require rest whether we give it or not.  I know the last year I worked, my body kept telling me ''that's all I can do, rest!''  I used up more sick leave than ever just because I was pushing myself too hard and ended up sick.
     Gatorade now even has a sports drink called Recover.  They recognize the fact that your body needs to be restored after pushing it in strenuous activity.  Nothing runs without being recharged, not even a battery.
     Even though we've come up with a lighted way to work around the darkness of night, I think nightime is God's way of directing us to rest.  He also declared the Sabbath as a day to rest.  He who is all powerful, even rested.  Genesis 2:3  ''Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.''
      All I can say is 'Rest is best and I do not say that in jest.'

Jesus Is...

     Have you ever thought of all the ways that you could describe what Jesus means to you?  I thought this caption was a good representation of that.  Of course, this is a limited description.  As one song says, if the ocean were filled with ink it would bleed it dry to describe Him and His love for us.  Each of these adjectives should have a special meaning to you and your relationship with Him.  If it doesn't, I encourage you to seek out what that could mean to you in your life today.

Pop To It

      Well, I can tell you I am no pop-tart and I don't pop out of bed.  Even when I could get out of bed on my own, I didn't jump out of bed.  I need a few snooze button minutes or just a few minutes to think about the day ahead.  What if your bed did spring you out of bed?  Would you hit the ground running or go buy some tie down straps?
      We certainly want others to jump to our needs or wants on occasion.  C'mon, let's go already, or get on with it might be some phrases used.  I'm glad the Holy Spirit pushes us gently in what we need to do in obedience with what we've been given.
      Every day is a new opportunity for us to get what God wants us to do done.  We should pop to it with a spring in our step.  I know those first few steps in the morning may take a lil caffeine push but we can do it. 
    


   

Be Kind

  
     Okay, so today I'm writing this blog mainly as a therapeutic session for myself.  I may have to read this caption till I've memorized it. 
     Sometimes we need to hold back our critical thoughts and not try to micromanage everything.  Whatever we think was done ignorantly, doesn't always need to be voiced.  As much as your tongue wants to lash out, keep your lips like an impassable wall. 
    Having a patient heart keeps us from saying 'well if you'd done it this way, you wouldn't be in this mess.'  We all make mistakes and theirs is no worse than our own.  We judge others with a finer toothcomb than ourselves often.  That's really not fair, is it?
    Matthew 7:2  ''For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.''
    Ouch, I'm stepping on my own toes.  I'm going to go give some grace, even if it kills me........lol.

Celebrate

     I first want to say this blog is not written for any particular person but go ahead and put your steel toe boots on now before reading further. [giggle]  I think this blog topic is a theme that strikes a chord with many of us.
     The caption above says 'Celebrate' the little things.  It does not say focus on or get caught up on the little things.  How many times does something little, drive you bonkers and practically consume all your thoughts?  What if a kind word said to you highlighted your day as much as a snide remark ruined your day?  Our focus is often on what's not right than with what is.  A good habit to practice on is to find positives in a negative situation.  Yes, it can be done. We must also learn to let things go.  Don't dwell on it till someone feels like telling you 'Enough already.'  Ask yourself  'is this really going to matter a year from now?'
     Celebrating the little things means taking nothing for granted.  Another day of life, a phone call from a friend, slowing down before the cop saw you, or tripping but not falling on your face.  These are just a few simple little things to do a lil happy dance over, like Woodstock is doing above.
     Sing it with me, 'Celebration time, c'mon.'

Way Back Wednesday.... I Thought?

     Well this caption takes me back to a funny, now not then, story.  The first year I was married we lived at Sugar Creek apartments and had a cocker spaniel puppy, Brandi.  We were not supposed to have a pet because we couldn't afford the 325 deposit.  We kept her anyway, secretly..lol.  One day Marc took her out to potty and it seemed to take longer than usual.  So, I went out to check on them and found Brandi alone??  I could think of no good reason why he would willingly leave her by herself.  I looked all around to no avail.  I decided he had been kidnapped.  I took Brandi in and called his sister to see if I was overreacting before calling the police.  She agreed that I should call so I did.  I told them everything that had happened but they insisted I needed to wait a few hours.  A few minutes after I got off the phone, Marc walked in. I'm sure I lashed out with 'Where have you been? I just reported you kidnapped.'  You what???  He had met some neighbor guy and was talking computers.  Ughh, the panic it caused! 
     Years later when we were buying our house, the bank informed us they couldn't process our loan till we took care of a lien on us.  A lien?  We were clueless as to what that was about.  It turned out to be that pet deposit.  Well we paid it and could afford it alot easier at that point.  Luckily, we didn't have other past due pet deposits from any other places we'd lived.

     We may try to get away with or hide things but it will come back to bite you.  It is better to deal with it now and seek forgiveness, than pay for it later.  Romans 2;5 ''But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God’s wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed.''

Tattoos

     Well I am not a fan of tattoos.  First of all, I don't know of anything I would want on my body forever.  One time in Mexico, they offered henna tattoos, which are temporary.  I thought about it but I couldn't think of anything that I would want to be on me even for a few days.  Secondly, I am not into elective pain.  Tattoos are a permanent scarring of the skin and that has to involve pain on some level.  Thirdly, if God wanted a certain design on my skin, then He would have arranged my freckles accordingly.  Fourthly, the Bible says not to do it.
     Tattoos are a popular trend at the moment.  If you want to make a forever statement, then use your body as a living example for Christ.  Your actions and attitude speak louder than a tattoo that needs to be explained.

     Leviticus 19;28   '‘Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD.''

Don't Be a Warrior

     Are you a warrior?  This verse reminds me of those people on Black Friday who trample over people just to get a television at a discounted price.  Hey, I'm all for a good bargain but I don't lose all respect for others and run them down to get it.
     Our society has become increasingly impatient.  When did 'instant-gratification' replace 'good things come to those who wait?'  I know I've been spoiled myself with my TiVo and can't hardly watch regular television with all the commercials.  I think that's a good thing but I wonder if it makes me impatient in other areas?
     Self control is widely under used I think.  Whether it's anger, food, or our mouths, we need to use a lil discipline on ourselves.  You can see the lack of self control in the increased crime rates, the obesity of our society, and the profanity that we hear all too often.  We can control what we want to, including ourselves.
    ''The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.''  May you be a vine that produces such fruit and not a branch that needs cut off.

My Cup

I love this poem but don't know who wrote it.  Just wanted to share it.

Drinking from my saucer  I've never made a fortune, and it's probably too late now. But I don't worry about that much, I'm happy anyhow And as I go along life's way, I'm reaping better than I sowed. I'm drinking from my saucer, 'Cause my cup has overflowed. Haven't got a lot of riches, and sometimes the going's tough But I've got loving ones all around me, and that makes me rich enough. I thank GOD for his Blessings, and the Mercies HE's bestowed. I'm drinking from my saucer, 'Cause my cup has overflowed. I remember times when things went wrong, My faith wore somewhat thin. But all at once the dark clouds broke and the sun peeped through again. So LORD, help me not to gripe, about the tough rows I have hoed. I'm drinking from my saucer, 'Cause my cup has overflowed. If GOD gives me strength and courage, When the way grows steep and rough. I'll not ask for other blessings, I'm already Blessed enough. And may I never be too busy, to help others bear their loads.. Then I'll keep drinking from my saucer, 'Cause my cup has overflowed.

Till We Meet Again

     My favorite missionary family, the Avilez's, from Thailand have been here over the past week.  They have an orphanage over there that now has 43 children.  They not only provide food, shelter and education for the children but they teach and steer them towards the Lord.  God's word is the foundation to which they build everything upon in the children's lives.  A work ethic is not only taught but expected/required of the kids.  To quote Bobby, ''do you think the kids won't have to work when they become adults?''  The entire Avilez family sacrifices so that the children can return home to their villages and tell others about the Lord.  What a spiritual fruit bearing vine to be a part of.
     The Avilez family only gets to come back to the U.S. every four years.  After they leave on Monday, I do not know whether we will see each other in another four years.  Of course, I hope so.  I don't worry about it tho because I know both of our futures are held in His hands with His plans.
     If you are interested in learning more about their wonderful, inspiring ministry... go to http://www.shanorphanage.com/ 

Sing It Back To Me

     Thursday night, we went to dinner with two people I didn't know well but had felt like I wanted to get to know better.  What a blessing that gut feeling turned out to be.  New 'friends' in my life outside of their job environments.  They both work in the healthcare field so that gives you a clue to their thoughtful, giving nature. Our two hour dinner was filled with the laughter I hadn't felt in years.  Uninhibited, pure belly rolling, tear engaging laughter.  They both have my type of sense of humor.. yea, a lil warped..ha. I truly needed a night out like this one.
     Each day His mercies to me are new and so are the blessings.  I am thankful for friends.. old and new.

Questions

Lord, may I be approachable and open to listening
to others’ questions. May I not feel threatened but
instead have confidence that You will give me wisdom
to know how to reply or where to find an answer.
from the daily bread



     We have all heard before that there are no stupid questions.  That is how we learn but are we open to questions ourselves?   Others may want to know what we think about certain things or just may be searching for a second opinion.  A friend of mine hesitantly asked me if she could ask me something.  Of course, I said.  It was a beautiful day and she asked, 'if you could do anything right now, what would you do?'  I said, swim or rollerskate.  People just want to understand how you handle difficulties and see what your uninhibited desires might be.  It is better to ask and find out than just assume what you think in your own mind.  Being open to questions should show your transparency.  Questions aren't intrusive but show an interest and provides information.
      Someday someone may ask you a very important question, 'in what and where do you find your hope?'  The Bible says we should always be ready to give our answer so that we may lead others to that hope, Jesus.
     May we all be an open door to others questions, it may lead far beyond your thoughts.

Way Back Wednesday......I Have Plans For You

     Well this is about as far back to my beginning as I have blogged about before.  Now this is what the 70's looked like...the hair, the striped pants, the vinyl couch.  Good thing I came along to add some style to this place, huh?  Just kidding. 

     The beginning for me started in Conway, AR.  Both my parents were students at what is now UCA.  It was Sept 2, 1971 when I arrived at 1;31am at Conway Regional Hospital.  [I think they're still trying to get a refund on me..lol.]  No, they were/are proud parents.  My mom doesn't exactly recall how long the delivery took because she thinks she passed out.  Back then, dads weren't allowed in the delivery room and he wasn't happy about the nurse not letting him carry me out of the hospital.

     I'm sure they knew God had big plans for both them and for me.  Did it turn out how they imagined?  No, but we all know that His ways are wiser than ours.  We have all prospered through trials and triumphs.  He has protected us from harm over the years. 

     The future is not scary because of the hope given thru Jesus Christ. Some may think, this is not what I planned for my life but it was planned before you even came to be.  You're the co-pilot, not the pilot.  I will one day be face-to-face with my Creator and thank Him for my well thought out life plan.  I have been blessed with great parents and a great life.......and I'm not even done yet.  Looking forward to the future plans ahead.

Say Nuffin'

     Oh, if we'd only learn a little bit from the 'Winnie the Pooh' classic storybooks.  Our mouths are so ready to give our unfiltered thoughts, that this is such a hard task for some of us. Have you ever known it was best to say 'nuffin' but you just had to tell one person your thoughts?  Yes, me too.  Sometimes I read stuff on Facebook, like gripes, and I think this is of no benefit to anyone. 
     It is not hard to be nice so why can't our words be too?  I read a sign the other day that said 'You should walk a mile in another's shoes before you criticize them, that way you have their shoes and you're a mile away.'  haha.  Maybe the rabbit in the caption is wiser than that. 
     May your words today be uplifting and encouraging, otherwise may they be silent.  Remember.....If you feel like huffin' and puffin', its best to say nuffin'.

'When you have nothing to say, say nothing.'

Pull Over

     Well can you tell Maxine and I are a little unsympathetic?  This blog is for those who 'want it' without the 'work for it.'  Our society is trying to be pushed into that kind of handout mentality.  Sure Canada has healthcare for all but does anyone ever mention the long wait for all for procedures? Not hardly.  Does your age matter whether you're considered fixable or put out to pasture in socialized medicine? Absolutely.  'Freeloader' used to be a negative term, has it changed in your mind?  I fear Obama will get a second term because of this moocher way of thinking.
     We begin teaching the 'work ethic' with chores for children.  The 'entitlement' attitude will set in if they aren't required to pull their weight in some form. You can see the change in television.  'Little House on the Prarie' shows often made a reference to chores being done, before play I might add.  I can't even tell you a show on air now that promotes chores for kids.
     When I turned eighteen, I qualified, due to my disability, to receive a Social Security check.  I never once thought 'hey I'm going to live off that and others.'  I wanted more not only for myself but of myself as well.
     Be a working example to those around you and hopefully they will see the benefit of it.  'Nothing is free in this world' is a lesson to be taught.

Proverbs 21:25
The craving of sluggards will be the death of them, because their hands refuse to work.
Proverbs 19:24
Sluggards bury their hands in the dish and will not even bring them back to their mouths!
Proverbs 6:6
Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise!

HAPPY EASTER

     HAPPY EASTER.  I hope you are celebrating this Resurrection day with a thankful heart. Believers can rejoice that one day we will be in the Promised Land that awaits us. 
     Getting up at 6am for church at 8am is a once a year event for me.  Was it worth it?  Absolutely.  To hear friends sing songs like 'Amazing Grace', 'Christ Arose', 'Alive', and 'Upon that Tree' was a beautiful way to praise our Savior for this day.
      I encourage you not to be a CEO [Christmas n Easter Only] church visitor.  We should worship Him every day of the year.

The Tomb

     I thought this was a neat centerpiece that anyone could make for Easter.  It has the three crosses on the hill representing Jesus being innocently crucified with the other two criminals. It shows the empty tomb with the stone rolled away.
     intouch.org  ''Jesus' resurrection proves that there is life after death. So many people today think that earthly existence is all there is. But this belief robs life of purpose and meaning. God created us as eternal souls, and Jesus demonstrated that death is not the end--much more awaits us.''
     A bunny rabbit can symbolize spring but let's remember Jesus' death and resurrection is the only true symbolization of Easter.  We have hope thru Him on this holiday because He followed thru on God's plan to pay our debt of sin for us. He escaped death thru the resurrection and in there, lies our hope.  He has gone ahead to prepare a place for us.