Don't Hesitate

     Well Karla and I were out saving yesterday.  That's our code word for shopping.  We had been in Target  buying our needs and wants.  While unloading our basket, she found my emery board that I intended to purchase.  She asked me if she should take it back in to pay for it.  I hesitated with my answer, even tho I knew the right thing to do.  Yes, I thought about how much time we had left and was it worth the trouble to have Karla go back in.  The devil was working quickly with my mind.  Karla interrupted my hesitation with 'you know God doesn't like ugly.'  We then agreed for her to go back in and make it right.
      Right is right and wrong is wrong.  There is no in between.  Sin tries to justify a wrong into an acceptable form but that doesn't make it anymore right.  Be quick to say yes and make all actions involving you pleasing to God.  Hesitation is only needed when preventing a wrong decision, not when doing what is right.

Remember

      We are so forgetful.  Who hasn't gone to the store and forgotten what you went for?  Who can remember the name of that familiar face without a panic moment of fear of embarrassment?  We need reminders for these trivial things.
      The list above is what God wants you to know, believe and remember.  His will is looking out for your behalf.  What is on your list to God?  I will trust You.  I will call on You.  I will praise You.  I will rely on Your Word.  I will follow You.  I believe in Your Son's saving grace.  The list is endless.
      Remember, where your heart is there you'll find your treasure.

It's a God Thing

     We are supposed to think of other's needs before our own.  Sometimes that is an easy task but other times it is a true sacrifice.  I don't know if I could do what was done for me in this story.
      When we moved into our house about 30 years ago, the previous owner, Mr. Finch, had a dog but couldn't take him immediately with him.  My parents agreed that the dog could stay and be picked up when he was able to.  Well if you know me at all, you know I can fall in love with a dog in less than 30 seconds.  Bosco and I were best buds immediately.  About 2 months later, Mr. Finch told my dad's uncle across the street that he was going to take Bosco home with him.  My uncle told him 'if you do, you're going to break one little girl's heart.'  I know it was a God thing that moved his heart to think of me before himself.  Mr.Finch lived alone and was a former POW veteran.  I'm sure it was quite a sacrifice to give up his long loved companion to me.  What a generous gift I received.  Bosco lived many years after that and was loved like family.  He was the first dog to get to come into the house.  He met me every day as I got off the bus and I looked for him as much as he did for me.

Who is in Control

     Tonight we are expecting severe weather with possible tornadoes.  It is wise to be aware and prepared but not to be overly anxious about it.  What will be is in God's control.  We can take physical cover but there is no greater cover than to pray for His protection over you.
     We must remember that His control is consistent, reliable and never failing.  The earth is defined by physical laws that we count on and plan our days by.  Who makes the sun rise and set?  It's certainly not BillyBob down in some hideaway control room.  It is the Creator and Controller of all things.
      Do you still think you're in control when you sleep at night?  I can assure you that God brought you into this world and He can and will take you out one day.
      As much as we think we would like to be in control, I think it is comforting to know we are not.

For the Week

    My focus has been off lately.  They say 'don't sweat the small stuff' but that's more easily said than done.  Isn't it the little irritations of daily life that get us so worked up?  It makes me think of the song lyric 'where is the love, the love, the love?'  Well I can surely tell you, don't look to me.
    The ultimate show of love should be our focus and is found on the Cross.  Why did Jesus have to die?  We are born with a separated relationship to God because of our sin and sin nature.  Jesus was the innocent sacrifice who paid our sin debt with His blood.  There is no forgiveness without a blood sacrifice,  the Bible says.
    So when you're critical of others, remember how much it cost to forgive you.  We all fall short  and need a Savior who forgives all.

To Love

    We don't have to wait till Valentine's day to show our love, nor should we.  God tells us 'to love one another' as a direct command.  He doesn't say when the time is right or when you feel like it.  He wants love to be shown thru all our actions.  'Without love, we are just a clanging gong.'
     I'm no expert on love and have yet to meet a human that is.  So going to the Bible is the best resource for help on advice.  Above are ten ways on how we can express our love to friends, family or strangers.  If we could only remember these and apply them in our daily lives, would there be peace on earth?
     'All you need is love, love is all you need.'

Your Witness

     How would you define your witness to the world?  If a stranger could define you in five words, what would they be?  As Christians, we should be in a process of transformation of becoming more like Christ.  You should be better than you were yesterday or at least learned something from it.  We don't change that quickly, do we? 

    I want to give two examples of people I do not know but was a witness to their walk.  Our reactions to bad situations can affect our witness to others.

    The other day my dad and I were in Kohl's waiting for a worker to find the flashlights that were on sale.  Another lady was waiting on customer service too and she was fit to be tied.  Her anger was as obvious as the smoke coming out of her ears.  As we checked out, I heard the worker apologize for the problems she encountered.  The lady then said 'well I'm sorry for yelling.'   Do our problems justify the means in which we get them solved?  No, Jesus never threw a hissy fit.

     Back during my cruising days, I was driving down Camp Robinson but looking backwards at some cute guys.  I totally rear ended the car in front of me.  It was totally my fault and I was ready for a blame-filled, tongue lashing.  The man got out and I let him speak first...maybe, hopefully I said I'm sorry first.  He looked at the cars and said, 'I don't see any damage.'  Are you sure?  We agreed no harm, no foul and I high-tailed it out of there for the night.  Being in the right doesn't always justify retribution but forgiveness pays off a greater reward.

     May your witness to the world be the same as the one you want it to be in your heart and mind.

Winter

     Yes, I know it is January and this cold weather is to be expected.  I don't have to like it but just endure it.  This too shall pass, however so slowly it seems.  The temperature today is lower than my age so it's going to take a fire or a really good sale to get me out of the house.  I don't like to bundle up because it interferes with my ability to move.
     We can endure, tolerate and survive through more than we think we can.  My two years living in the Chicago area is proof of that.  I thought I was a frozen dead woman walking up there in the land of no sweet tea.
     I feel for the homeless, both human and animals, on days like these.  Be sure to be thankful for the things we often take for granted...heat, power, shelter, warm clothing and security.

It's a God Thing

   
    Are you aware of God's protection over you all the time?  I saw a sticker on a car the other day that said 'Faith 247'.  It took me a minute for me to realize that it meant that their faith was 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  It is in the moments that we didn't even realize we were vulnerable, that we can thank Him for the never failing protection He provides.
     In 1993, we moved from Dallas, TX to DeKalb, IL.  At the time, we had a brown boat of a car and a sportscar.  With the use of a Uhaul tow bar, we towed the sportscar.  We stayed overnight in Little Rock to visit and rest halfway.  We headed out the next day for the long drive and the less than desirable destination of the land of the frigid.  We stopped in a town [I can't remember the name] in Illinois about 3 or 4 hours short of our destination.  When we stopped to park, the tow bar hitch fell off the car.  Whoa, that was the 'God thing' moment of protection for us and others on the road.  What if it had come off while going 65mph down the highway?  You can just imagine the horrific possibilities.  Even tho it was hard for me, God gave me the strength to drive the car the rest of the way.  We weren't about to trust that tow bar again.
     There is no greater or safer place to be than in God's protective hands.

Praying for the President

    As Christians, we must accept the leaders that represent us in government.  God has allowed them to have  authority in their position.  We can, however, pray for them.
    President Obama claims with his mouth to be a Christian but yet his actions speak otherwise.  I'll let God be the judge of that because He knows the heart.
    I hear it often said 'We need to pray for our President and leaders.'  I also know we are to be specific in our prayers.  I found the following list on how to pray for the President on intouch.org.  I hope our prayers speak louder than our votes.

1. Realize his personal sinfulness and daily need of God’s cleansing power.

2. Recognize his personal inadequacy for the task and therefore depend upon the Lord.

3. Reject all counsel that violates spiritual principles and then trust the Lord to validate him.

4. Resist pressure from individuals or special interest groups that would have him act in violation of his conscience or godly principles.

5. Work at reversing our country’s trends toward socialism and humanism, both of which dethrone the Lord and deify man.

6. Be ready to forsake his political career and personal ambition for the best interest of the nation.

7. Rely upon the Word of God as his source of strength and key to success.

8. Bring dignity, honor, trustworthiness, and righteousness to the office of the presidency.

9. Be a good example, especially to the fathers and sons of the nation.

10. Be reminded daily that he is accountable to Almighty God for his attitudes, actions, and motivations while in office.

Right to Life

    God creates life and God ends life.  Anyone that interferes with either, commits murder.  Today was the March for Life walk here in Arkansas.  The unborn babies need a voice to speak for their right to live.  I think the woman's 'right to choose' ends with prevention.  After that, your choice is the chance you took to change your life.  Every life is a blessing and irreplaceable.
    Psalm 139:13  'For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.'

Till Tomorrow?

     Which do you prefer?  'Don't do today, what you can put off till tomorrow.' or 'Don't put off till tomorrow, what you can get done today.'  Well that depends on what it is, right?  Is it a priority to you or an eye sore that bothers you?  There are some things that can be delayed but eventually it will all catch up with you.  Like the dishes, you can refuse to wash them but soon there won't be a clean dish in the house.. your time is up.
     Our lives are on the clock and we don't know when the alarm will sound.  Are you prepared?  The decision to believe in God's only Son is one that many people foolishly think they can delay.  Tomorrow is not promised to us, but yet we so often take it for granted.
     My eternal future is secure in the One who paid my debt for me.  You can't pay it yourself so start today in trusting the One who has prepared the way for you.

What We See

     Perspective is how we see things.  Is it always right?  No, of course not.  We are biased, influenced and tainted.  I think it is interesting to hear someone else's comments on the same thing I just heard or saw.  It can open my eyes or ears to something I totally missed.
    Negativity can become a bad habit.  'You must learn a new way to think before you can master a new way to be.'  Do we look for the good in things or the troublesome parts?  I think life is like a rose, it has thorns so we will handle it with care and still get the beauty out of it.
    How do you turn a negative into a positive?  It's as simple as math, add positivity. -1 plus 2=1  So for every negative comment you hear, counter them with two things on the bright side.
    May you see the bright side of the ugliest days and share it with those who need glasses.

Christmas Recital Songs

'Bring the Rain' by Mercy Me

'Behold The Lamb'

It's a God Thing

    In May of 1989, I came home early from school one day not feeling well.  As I lay on the couch, my fever climbed and I got progressively worse very quickly.  My parents took me to the ER at Memorial Baptist Hospital.  It was there that I was admitted to the hospital with my first bout of pneumonia.  [I do not remember most of the rest of this story so this is my mom's recollection of events.]  I could not go to sleep and yet I was so tired.  At about 2am, the nurses or doctor decided to give me a little bit of oxygen.  I went to sleep immediately.  After about 30 minutes, my mom had a feeling that she should wake me up to check on me.  This was the 'God thing' moment because she should've been asleep herself and she had no cause, other than the feeling, to wake me up.  Normally, I wake up at the slightest noise or interruption.  This was not the case here.  My mom pushed the nurse call button as she struggled to get me awake.  When I did come to, my eyes were rolled back in my head.  I tried to talk but couldn't and whatever I did say made no sense.  The nurse ran in and then out to get help.  By the time they came back, I was coming around.  They removed the oxygen and the next morning the doctor drained over a liter of fluid off my lungs.
     So what happened?  We breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide.  Because of the neuromuscular disease, I don't breathe out sufficiently to get rid of the carbon dioxide and that leads to poisoning.  Carbon dioxide build up puts you to sleep and turns off your body's natural response to wake up.  It's very dangerous.  The oxygen level in your blood will be fine but without a blood gases check of your blood, it can go unnoticed.  It can cause brain damage or death without intervention.
     So don't ignore your gut feelings, it could be God nudging you.  The results could be life-saving.

Trust and Proof

     I lived in the 'Show Me' state, Missouri, for six years.  Show me is our desire to see the proof in the pudding.  I think the world is so fallen that trust has to be earned with proof so that you can trust in something.
    When we start out as babies, we are helpless and have to trust our parents.  With time, we are shown their love for us.  We don't come out of the womb with a check of their resume to see if they're qualified.
    I think God knew our show-me thoughts and provided a form of proof thru the Bible.  We must not just study the Bible but apply it and trust will grow.  So often tho, we are like the Israelites.  We grumble, God provides, then we forget the blessing, and doubt Him in the next trial.
   We are not just sinners but helpless sinners.  There is nothing we can do on our own, ie. good works, to save ourselves.  We must trust in the Savior who was sent to be our only help.  Your life is proof He cares for you but does your life prove you care for Him?

Service

    We have all received bad or no service at a restaurant or a store. We complain with  ''Isn't there anyone working here that can help me?''  We want others to be there and do for us, especially when it's their job.  Patiently waiting is a rare quality in the human race.

    Isn't it our job to work for the Kingdom?  Is God patiently waiting for you to get started?  The song is true, 'there is joy, joy, joy in serving Jesus.'  There is such a rewarding feeling that comes from helping another soul.

    Right now the men from my church are in Mexico helping build apartments for the Camp Berea outreach program. Yes, it requires time off work, volunteer labor and costly supplies.  When you ask God to 'make me a servant', then you do it willingly with the right heart.  You don't grumble and say 'oh what's this going to involve.'

    'Do unto others as you'd have them do to you.'  Putting yourself in the place of others in your mind will help you see their need and spark your heart to fill that need.

Listen Up

     Our minds are often very forgetful and yet are very good at playing our own thoughts over and over. We do a good job at reaffirming ourselves, despite any contradiction. God doesn't speak to us like he did with those in the Bible but He does have His ways.  The Holy Spirit is one way and can guide us, if we listen.
     I think 'Yes, but' is often our response even when we do hear Him.  We want to do things in our own way, instead of His.  We think a little modification will still be within the boundaries but that's not true.  Cain thought his offering from the ground was close enough to what God asked for.  No, it had to be an offering that was a blood sacrifice and that's why Abel's offering was pleasing and acceptable to God.
     Go to the Scriptures to reaffirm your thoughts.  You could be right or you could be wrong, prove it to yourself.

My Wishes

    My wishes are my prayers for you today and always.  Sometimes all you can do for someone else is pray for them.  If you know a prayer warrior, I recommend getting on their list and becoming one yourself.
    There is great joy in praying for others.  You may see the results without them even knowing it was an answered prayer.  It also takes your focus off yourself, which is a good thing.
    You will be blessed when you ask for others to be blessed.  It's a win-win situation.

Trust God

    Are you a worry wart?  Worry is like a rocking chair, it gives you something to do but gets you no where. I've never known anything to change because I worried about it.  Now turning my worries into prayers is a different story.
    Do you trust God to take care of your problems?  Many would say yes but I think our doubts arise from whether we will find His solution to our liking.  If I ask, will He provide what I want and the way I want it?  We have to ask and trust 'according to His will', not our own.
    Abraham surely didn't like the idea of sacrificing his only son, but he trusted God's word completely.  Abraham's life of faith was lived without an acceptable factor to him but one of trust in God's word and promises.
Matthew 6:34  '' Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.''
 
 

Both Wrong

    I am reading a book this year called 'The Stranger on the Road to Emmaeus.'  It brought up something I had overlooked.  Where was Adam when the serpent talked to Eve?  I had just assumed that he was in the garden of Eden somewhere but that she was alone.  The Bible says differently, 'he was with her.'  Eve gets most of the blame even tho it's referred to as Adam's curse or fall.  Genesis 3;6  ''When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.''
    So instead of playing the blame game, we should recognize that they were both guilty of disobeying God.  They both doubted God's word. We often want to put the blame somewhere else for our own transgressions.  It's easier that way than taking responsibility.  Free will makes it so that we are not controlled robots so therefore we alone are responsible for our sinful choices.  Yes, we all sin and are with a sinful nature but we will each face judgement alone.

It's a God Thing

    With so many people sick right now, I thought a blog post on one of the many times God has been there for me during an illness would be appropriate.  It confirms the three characteristics that He alone has... all-knowing, all powerful, and ever-present.
    When I was married, we lived in an apartment in Naperville, IL during 1994-95.  Sometime during that winter I got the stomach flu.  I've never had a case of it so bad and hope to never again.  I was home alone and went to our second bathroom off the kitchen.  I was sitting on the commode with my head on the vanity and feeling pretty awful.  Without knowing it, I passed out.  When I came to, everything looked strange and I didn't know where I was at.  I soon realized I was upside down in the bathtub and looking up at the under side of the tub's spout.  My shoe was caught on the corner of the vanity and I was still on the toilet.  Yes, both an uncomfortable and panic moment.  I can't remember exactly, but I think I wiggled my foot loose to get unstuck.  I'm still in the bathtub on my head.  My 'its a God thing' moment was that I used the shower curtain and rod to pull myself up and out of there.  We all know how flimsy those are so I know He gave both me and the curtain strength at the needed time.  I can also say 'its a God thing' that I didn't bust my head open during the fall.  After all this, I made it to the phone and Marc came home.  We spent the next few days suffering the virus together.
     We will suffer through sickness in this world but we are never alone.  He is there, He knows, and He provides the strength needed to get thru it.

One, Two... and Three?

     Okay so I can do the first two things in this caption with no problem, but the third does just about kill me at times.  Giving grace is not my specialty.  'Always be kinder than you feel' is a good starting place.  You may feel irritated by a mistake someone made but if we remember our own faults then a little grace will soften your blow.
    Now I'm not gracious like Princess Diana or Grace Kelly either.  I think I was in dance class for about two weeks before the teacher recommended that I switch to baton class.  Some of us just don't have the genes to walk on air but instead we stumble thru the best we can.
   'His grace is greater than your sins.'  There is no limit on what the grace of God can cover.  'His grace is sufficient.'  He will not take you further than His grace will carry you.  It is an amazing grace.

Prayer and Trouble

    Nobody likes to be called upon by someone else just when they are needed for something.  Wouldn't you agree?  It makes a person feel used and unappreciated.  Life is about give and take, not a one sided entitled-to attitude.
    God is more forgiving than we are and will never turn us away.  He is always there for us, even if we rarely turn to Him.  The trouble with that is that we miss out on so much when we don't seek His help.  Don't they say 'two is better than one' and Who better to be tied to than Him?
    Prayer is not just a 911 line of communication.  It is a place to thank God for all He has done for you.  It is a source of peace.  It is a way to express your concerns for others.  It is a love offering to your Father in heaven.  It is a place of repentance and forgiveness.  It is where you show your dependence on Him.

Love to See This

     I don't think I have the words to express enough how much I love this idea and wish it could happen.  There is no excuse to be a bad owner of animals.  Don't own them if you can't care for them with love and respect.  I think if 'love one another' was meant just for mankind, then God would've said 'love your fellow human.'
     Animals are a great example of forgiveness so I'm not sure how many folks would be in the pound.  Some people complain about the loud barking of dogs but they really aren't the ones to blame, but the owners are.  Is it hungry, thirsty, or given attention?
    'All creatures great and small, God created them all.'  We have a responsibility to watch out for them, protect them and speak up for them when they are mistreated.

Prize

    Are you searching for the prize of life?  I'm like the raccoon and want to see what I've won before messing with the carmel popcorn. Well unlike this raccoon, we have to finish the box of life before we get our reward.  The Bible helps us have an idea of what is ahead.
   Our relationship with Christ is our continuous prize.  Every day is a new gift that we get with unexpected rewards.  Do we see each day, as a box with a desired prize or a bummer, throwaway box?
   Our journey through the box of life will come to an end one day.  Will you have enjoyed it all or will there be a few kernels left unpopped?  Share everything that you've been blessed with.. food, clothing, shelter and most importantly, the Good News.

Forever

     What does 'forever' mean to you?  It could be the long line and wait at the DMV.  It could be your lifetime as you know it. Forever is time and beyond to infinity.  There is no limiting factor.
     The Bible says over and over 'His love endures forever.'  There are at least three ways He proves this to us daily.
     'Forever You are faithful'  God and His promises never change.  God will never let us down.  He will never cheat us from the good things He wants for us in our lives.  Psalm 117:2  ''For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD.''
     'Forever You are strong'  God never has a weak moment.  His power and strength created and sustains all things.  Psalm 136:4-5  '' to him who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever. who by his understanding made the heavens, His love endures forever.''
     'Forever You are with us'  He will never forsake us or leave us. Psalm 138:8  ''The LORD will vindicate me; your love, LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.''
      So the next time you think something is taking forever, think about how much time God has invested in you.

Never Too Old

     Isn't it funny how our age can sometimes define us?  When we are young, we can't wait to grow up so we can do whatever we want to.  Then at some age point, we decide we are too old to do what we'd like to.  Do we think we are only useful during the peak years of our lives?

     A quote from one of my favorite movies is 'Get busy living or get busy dying.'  That is so true as we are not mere statues to be gazed upon. We have an intended purpose.  Jeremiah 1:7  ''But the LORD said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you.''

     In the quote above by C.S. Lewis, we are reminded to never give up on looking forward in life and to continue to improve ourselves.  We stay young by the renewing of ourselves and our minds.  Old, crotchety people are often defined as 'set in their ways' or 'they'll never change.'

     So if you want to keep living, you need to keep moving.  The race is worth running and just because you quit, doesn't mean it's over.  No matter what you think, the years before and after your peak are not bleak.

It's a God Thing

     This is my new Wednesday weekly segment for 2013.  God is definitely involved in our lives all the time but there are certain special moments that we can clearly see God's handprint.  I want to spend the 52 weeks of this year sharing with you these stories from past or present times in my life.  Giving God the credit and glory is my goal.
     So I will begin with the recent Christmas snowstorm of 2012.  It was the first snow on Christmas since 1926 and it was a whopper, 10 inches here.  At Christmas dinner in the basement, we prayed that our power would not go out to keep us warm and to keep my air machine powered.  There were over 100,000 homes across the state without electricity.  We were humbled and grateful that we only lost power for 15 minutes during the week of outages. I know 'It was a God thing' and I am truly grateful.  When so many friends were without power, you can see your own blessings more clearly.

Draw Closer

     I thought this was a good caption to start the new year with.  If we consider today to be a new start to our lives then let's begin with a closer walk with Thee.  Before we even know what this new year will bring to try to distract us, we should try to engage in practices that enrich our lives more and more with God's presence.
     How?  When you have Scripture memorized, it can help comfort you during a trial.  When at a crossroad, verses can steer you into making the right decision.  Prayer or talking with God can help relieve you of the burdens you bear.  It's an open line of communication that hears your cry and always has the right response.
   'God wants full custody of us, not just weekend visitations.'  Are you walking with Him or is He dragging you kicking and screaming?  'Those who walk with God always reach their destination.'  'You can't walk with God and hold hands with the devil.'  So where are you headed and by whose Hand?

Enjoy Now

    As we wrap up with 2012, can you just take a moment to reflect on how the year's events have brought you to today?  The trials that have made you stronger, the joys that have blessed you and the faithfulness by God through it all.
    Sometimes we are so caught up in tomorrow that we lose the joy of the present day.  We often worry about things that never happen.  Isn't each and every day a gift to be cherished?  I like some days with no rush and no agenda to just enjoy the relaxation of the day.
   'Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong;  for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.'  There will always be danger and opposition to the righteous way of living but we must have faith in God's protective hand over us.  The main objective of evil is to steal our joy.  Don't let yourself be robbed.

Next Year Worries

     Are you worried about the next year and the uncertainty that it holds?  Do you wonder if the things of the past year was your last time around?  I have a few things on my plate that make my mind wander into questioning how things will turn out.  It is human nature to be intimidated by things out of our control.  The 'what ifs' followed by the 'then what' can wreck havoc with our peaceful lives.  Not many of us like surprises that weren't somewhat planned or expected.
     As I was reading my daily verses, the verse above reminded me that I have nothing to worry about.  I can  verify God's faithfulness in all my times of trouble in my past and He always carried me through.  If I didn't have trials, how would I know He could fix them?  'You will protect me' is His promise of safety.  'You reach out your hand' is His covering over our lives.  'The power of your right hand saves me' is His outreach to us that is always waiting for us to cling to.
    God brings events and people into our lives with a purpose.  Some are blessings, some are lessons and some are both.  'The Lord will work out His plans for my life.'  It's not about my plans for this life, but about the life planned before I even existed.

Dessert and Everything Else

    Well if there is any two weeks of the year that I want to be on prednisone, then it is the two weeks surrounding Christmas.  It literally changes my brain and body to eat more than I ever do...it's great.  My aunt made me a chocolate pie and I've eaten all of it myself minus one piece I shared.
    When my body is stressed by a cold, then my go to for relief is often the steroid, prednisone.  Often people seek relief from stress with food, and likely desserts.  YUM.  Luckily I'm only under the weather occasionally or I'd be a brickhouse...lol.
     Where do you turn for stress relief?  Prayer can change your mind and body responses too.  It opens us up to thoughts beyond our own.  It can clear our pathways to direct us in a new light.  Remember, the power of prayer never goes out.

Throwback Thursday

       Well, Way Back Wednesday got thrown into Thursday by the great big Christmas snowstorm of 2012.  We got over 10 inches of snow that caused major power outages across the state... including my internet.

       Anyways this is my last Way Back Wednesday post.  I've tried this past year to share pictures and stories from my life's journey thus far that has made me who I am today.  I chose these last two pictures as a reflection of what I think still sticks with me.  I'm slim with a sense of adventure and a smile.

      When God made me, He knew I needed to be petite.  He thought of my weight before I even gained a pound.  He knew I would need to be carried at times so my weight has enabled me to go and do things more than others.

      As I proudly hold my caught fish, I'm filled with pride and a sense of achievement.  I think my life has shown an attitude of 'get er done.'  I believe in a can-do focus in life and not one of excuses, valid or not.  Don't just dream about things, wakeup and get started on it.

     Smiling is in my DNA and is present most of the time.  Knowing that everything will work out for my good in the end helps me on the stressful days to find a smile somewhere within me.  You can find good in everything and that's how I choose to see life.

    What childlike characteristics still reside in you........

MERRY CHRISTMAS

     I hope that whether you're reading this on Christmas day or days later, that you had a wonderful day celebrating the birth of Jesus.
    What makes His birth different? He was born of a virgin birth. He was sent as a sacrifice to save the world from our sins.  He is God in the flesh, who bore our burdens just like we do but without sin.  He has the name above all names.  He came to show us the power of God thru miracles.  He conquered the grave thru His resurrection.
    Christmas is about Christ.  Each of us is an Innkeeper who decides if there is room for Jesus. May your hearts and minds be open and consumed with His presence all year long.

Giving

    'God owes us nothing but gives us everything.'  This is the season for giving all because God so loved the world He gave His only begotten Son.  The greatest gift ever that redeems us and conquers the grave.  He loved and thought of us first.
    Anne Frank said 'no one has ever become poor by giving.'  That is so true because giving has such a boomerang effect that you can't help but to be hit by a blessing.  Whatever we give, monetary or time, it is the thoughtfulness that makes it worthy at all.
    My new helper has the thoughtfulness of giving little things down pat.  I'll give you one example of a little thing that counts for so much more.  The bedroom/bathroom where I take a shower is 'the' coldest room in the house.  Even with space heaters, I think it could snow in there at times.  Well if you think stepping into a shower is cold then try sitting on an ice block of a chair.  Yes, it's a shock to the system.  Well without even being asked, she runs hot water over the chair.  So now it's like sitting on a heating pad.  A little thought meant alot to my comfort.  Priceless.
     The best things in life really are free.  It may take some thought and effort but they are there in you for the giving. 'The measure of your life will not be in what you accumulate but in what you give away.'
     2 Corinthians 9;11  'You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.'

Joy in my Heart and Apartment

    Jelly is the only thing that makes a peanut butter sandwich edible to me and I like lots of it.  Joy is what makes life bearable and I like lots of it too.  So Saturday night, I was visited by the FBF carolers and what joy boosters they are.  From ages 5 to over 75, it is great to see people spreading the spirit of Christmas all around the community.  Yes they visit the retirement center and other homes to spread the joy around.  I not only got music to my ears but goodies for my belly.
    The joy didn't end when they left because I also received tonight a new cd by the soon to be famous 'REAL Entertainers.'  They are four young sisters who play the accordion, penny whistle, violin and harmonica.  They use their talents to spread joy at all different kinds of events and elderly centers.  I listened to my cd and enjoyed it very much.  Tiger even came out from under the bed and sat in front of my jukebox to get prime acoustical sound for herself.  I think she approved.
     May you do your best to be the jelly of joy to the belly of the world.  Spread it on thick.

What to Do

    Okay so you may still be thinking about yesterday's blog and wondering what to do to make things happen for the better in 2013.  I think the top ten list caption above is a great foundational list to begin with.

    'Doing right' is always the right move.  Don't do it to impress or to get a gold star but because you know it's agreeable with God's purpose for you.
    'Forgiving' is a grace giving move and benefits you more than them.  How can we ask for what we aren't willing to give?
    'Worry' robs you of today.  The things we worry about most, never happen.  God has it covered and under control so hand over those burdens.
    'Judge not' for you will be measured by the same amount.  ouch.. I try to remember 'hate the sin but love the sinner' because we all fall short.
   'Stay true' because your beliefs will back your character more than anything.  Don't be lukewarm but hot or cold.
   'Pray' for the will of God in all things.  Our plans are biased and short sighted.  Let Him guide the way, even when we don't understand it in the hallways of life.
   'Prioritize' the eternal destiny you have plans for.  Don't get caught up in the worldly ways of life's pressures but make daily time for Him.
   'God first' should be above all else.  There is no one more giving, dependable, and trustworthy.  God first, others second, and you third.
  'Asking' is the first step to receiving.  Don't give up because your past your own set timeline, it's all in His timing.
  'Obedience' is what God wants from us.  He gave us a guidebook to help us avoid the pitfalls out there but it is up to us to follow those commands.

    So there is your to-do list for the days to come.....make it happen and you'll be happier and blessed for it.

Make It Happen

     There are 3 types of people...1] those who make things happen, 2] those who watch things happen, and 3] those who ask 'what the heck just happened'.  Who are you?  A doer, a sideliner, or just clueless.  Every day is a new opportunity to make the most out of your life, it's not done for you.
     With the new year arriving soon, it is time to evaluate 2012 and plan for 2013. Can you see patterns that you need to avoid and change?  Insanity is repeating behavior and expecting different results.
     The greatest change you can make is giving up your old self for a new life in Christ.  Only you can make it happen in your heart.  Don't let another year of 'doing things my way' rob you of who you were meant to be and the service you were meant to do for the Lord.

Meeting Face to Face

     Well this past Monday, I had the pleasure of meeting one of my facebook friends and a loyal blog follower.. Cathy.  She is my dad's college roommate's sister.  Isn't it strange how the circle of friends in our lives evolves.  She was twelve back then.
      Cathy is doing a peanut butter drive for a food pantry/outreach center so my donation sparked our reason to meet face to face.  She also came bearing gifts, 2 necklaces.  One was from Amazina Ministries, where women in Uganda make them.  The program helps keep them from a life of prostitution, digging in the trash and alcohol brewing. All of which are means of survival there.  I hope to share the story each time I wear the pretty purple necklace.
     Our visit was an encouragement to both of us.  We both knew about each other but a face to face meeting is so much more insightful and rewarding.
      As true it will be when we meet our Maker that we've learned about.  What a glorious day that will be!
1 Corinthians 13:12  ''For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.''

Way Back Wednesday.......California 1979

   









    These are pictures from me and my mom's trip in 1979 to see my Aunt Ann and Uncle Ebbe.  My mom went out there with her twin as a teenager and this was my second trip there.  I was 8 here but at ages 10-12 I flew out there alone for 3 weeks each summer.
     Disneyland was always on our to do list but the list of other places is just too long to list.  Such fun and adventure awaited me with each visit.
     The second and third pictures are from Twin Falls in Yosemite.  Yes we climbed that mountain of a hill to the top of the waterfall.  They had a camper so we stayed at the park several days.  I was the head waitress at taking menu orders at meal times.
     Knott's Berry Farm was one of the many amusement parks they took me to.  I loved the rides and the thrills.  My uncle always had to have a coffee/pastry break about 3pm so a little patience was being taught amidst all the fun.
     Yes that's me on the edge.  Life is a balancing act of trust, no fear and getting out there and making things happen.  I'm thankful to my aunt and uncle for helping me see the world on a larger scale at a young age because the memories last forever.

Followers

     Do you have followers in your life?  Of course, we all do.  It may be children, friends, family, co-workers or even strangers.  Our influence goes beyond our short sightedness.  You are being observed and judged more than you know.
     We form opinions about who we want to be like and who we never want to imitate.  Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.  'Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.'  Ephesians 5;1  That is part of our sanctification journey, to become more and more like Him.
     Can you say He is pleased by what is becoming of you?  Are you a godly role model to your followers?

Mr. Snowman Says

    My little 4 year old friend, Mackenzie, made and gave me today a snowman ornament that she made.  She is as cute as a bug but her giving spirit takes her over the top of beautiful.

    Since she's so young, she is few on words.  But what does her gift say to me?  I was thinking of you.  I'm your friend.  I have love in my heart for you.  I took time for you.  Merry Christmas.

   May all your good deeds and gifts this season be as precious and thoughtful as this little babe's were.

Christmas Meaning

     "If Jesus Christ had never been born, it would be always winter but never Christmas."   C. S. Lewis

     ''The greatest gift of all....Jesus Christ.''

     ''The first King size bed... a manger in a stable.''

       May we never forget the true meaning of Christmas all throughout the year.

    

The Spirit Within

     Yesterday I was watching a show that dealt with death.  The spouse was mourning over the body of her husband.  While I recognize the loss of a person's physical presence, it is the spirit and soul of a person that we truly love.  It is important to focus on the life of a person, not the death. As C.S. Lewis says 'we are not a body, we are a soul in a body.'  We need to accept and recognize how fast we will all wither away, just like a flower.  However we are taken home is not what we want to be remembered for.  I don't anyway.  Maybe my blog book will help loved ones remember good times and what was important enough to me to write about.
     No one can sustain their health on their own or forever.  God has sustained me beyond what human minds could ever predict.  His Spirit lives in me and through me.  Only He knows when our numbered days are over.
     I just wanted to write this because I know death is tough but it shouldn't shut you down and out of life.  I know this happens but no one would wish that for the living.  Believers can just look forward to that 'glad reunion day' because 'I've got a mansion just over the hilltop' and 'we will meet on that beautiful shore.'

Way Back Wednesday--- Settle Down

    

     Have you ever wondered what you look like when you're mad?  Well here's my snapshot.  Who said honeymoons are all roses?  Ha.  I don't remember why I was upset and in there lies the blog lesson of today.  Being mad can make anyone ugly.  Before we make a mountain out of a mole hill, we should take a moment of reflection in our hearts and minds...and the mirror.  'Will I remember this a year from now?' is a good question to ask yourself before going ballistic on someone.

    Maturity should bring about a cooler, calmer and less easily provoked sense of anger.  That is not true in everyone but I can say it's true for me.  If you think I'm still hot headed, then just be glad you know me now, not before.  ha.  Humility is part of my work in progress journey.

   'A wise man keeps his anger under control but a fool gives full vent to his anger.'  Proverbs is a good source of how to become wiser in our foolish bodies.  'Settle down' is another good rule of thumb.  Count to 10 or a 100 to get yourself under control and avoid a snapshot like mine above.

Expectations

    Well this is a very hard lesson to learn and remember.  Alot of us are people pleasers so we think others will do, what we would do.  That is not the case.  People will disappoint us, as much as we disappoint ourselves and others. We have to be careful not to become fault finders but to give grace.  The my way road can steer us to unflexibility, harsh attitudes and self-centeredness.  Let's all take a moment to sigh.. yes we've all been there.
    Do not put your trust in man.  A famous quote but hardly ever followed completely.  People sometimes think a new baby will fix a broken relationship.  How wrong and what a burden to put on someone.  People sometimes think if I meet the right person then my world will be complete.  You can't be happy or make someone else happy, until you are satisfied with yourself first.
   So do we just set the bar lower?  I think it's a mixed answer.  We should give without expecting anything in return.  We should expect of ourselves, the same expectations we set for others.  Know that being let down is par for the course of life, don't dwell on it.
    God will never disappoint His children.  You can trust Him completely and expect great things beyond your understanding.

The Way We Dress

    This caption is true for myself.  I'm one who likes to get up and get dressed.  I'm not an all day pajama person.  You never know who will drop by or what you'll suddenly have to go do... so be ready.
     It affects my thinking by altering my plans for the day.  Sometimes I will change my outfit because I don't feel cute enough to go out.  Vain?...so be it.  Dress for success as they say.
     My clothes are a reflection of my mood and vice versa.  I have certain clothes I wear when I'm sick.  I can spruce up my mood by putting on a favorite or new item.
    I've gotten rid of all my old interview clothes because they're too business like.  I don't want to act all formal now days.  It's just not me.
    Our reactions may be too quick but we all have an opinion.  We don't have to dress to impress but we shouldn't shock others either.  Less is not more when it comes to clothing and covering your body.
    Just put a little thought in what you wear.  It's good for you and others.