James 1:2-4 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
I used this scripture a couple days ago and it is still haunting me! I don't want my faith to be tested! Right now I just want to run away. And hide. I don't want to be mature and complete. Not right now. I want to be sad; upset; disappointed. I want to run away and wallow in my disappointment.
Isn't that what life does to us - more often than we want to admit?
We think things are going good, life seems level. People are happy. And something happens - or someone screws it up. It could be anything. It could be nothing.
And I'm supposed to be happy about it? When do I get respect? When do I get to be number uno? Oh - yeah, on my birthday. I forgot. Just a little sarcasm. Yep, from me.
Oh I'm ok. Just got some news that has disappointed me. I have shared before how much I love having family around, how important it is to me. Time here on earth is short enough - and I want every moment to be grasped hold of and cherished. I love being with friends and sharing their lives. Don't get me wrong, I love my alone time too! But I love making memories with those I love. It is very important to me. Very important.
Ok. I'm better. Just needed to get some of it out of my system. Now I know my children are going to be wondering what is going on. I'm sure they will figure it out soon enough. Losing brownie points in this family is critical. It isn't pretty for those involved. Sad part, it usually ends up affecting others more than it does family. Sometimes scissors need to be used .... just saying. And it may not be mama's apron strings either! If you mess with family; you will end up wishing you hadn't. You don't interfere when you aren't part of it. How can one forget a holiday that is always on the calendar... duh, you are off work, right? That's all I'm going to say.
So I am supposed to consider this trial pure joy. That's what the scripture says. Didn't the $505 bill for a new fuel pump yesterday make me joyful enough? What about the ridiculous amount I spent on groceries today? See this big smile? I'm joyful!!
But that isn't what God means, is it? Things will happen that will hurt you. People will disappoint you. Dreams are broken (sometimes time and again). Life sucks. You wonder 'why bother'.
But we have ONE who is above all these things. He walks with me and He talks with me, and yes, He listens to me even when things are like this. He knows my name. He knows my aching heart. He sees each tear that falls, and He hears me when I call. (yes, that is from a song - at least most of it) I know that He is always dependable and will never disappoint or fail me. He loves me more than I can ever imagine (or more than I can ever remember). He is my All in All.
Because of my relationship with Him, I can be joyful in difficult and disappointing circumstances. Because I love Him, I can surrender it all to Him - and because He loves me, He gathers me into His arms and holds me close to His heart.
And I can be ok. I can mature and be complete because I am in Him. It isn't about me anymore. It isn't about my disappointment or my pain. Life goes on. I want to live my life loving on those I love - that when I am no more, these memories will hold them close. Yeah, I'm sentimental too.
No regrets. It's done. I am His and He is mine. I will be mature and complete, because I consider it pure joy when trials come. I will not fail the trial, but I will stand firm because I belong to Jesus.
How are you standing? Hold out your hand and hold on to His - you are in for a ride of your lifetime!
Blessings!
(Abba, have I gotten mature and complete enough yet? Can we move on to another verse?)
Friday, August 31, 2012
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Consider it pure joy...
Are you kidding me? I wrote the below scripture yesterday just to identify some of our struggles.
James 1:2-4 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complkete, not lacking anything."
Obviously we still need to develop our perseverance and our faith! On the good part of today, we did find a glass fireplace screen on Craigslist and was able to pick it up early this morning. We got it back home in one piece and it is sitting now in front of the fireplace. Not as elegant as the previous screen, but does what it is supposed to do. Keep Marley out of the plants sitting in the fireplace.
Tom took my van in today to get my 'free' oil change and lube for my birthday. He was also going to get the front end aligned as we are planning on taking it on vacation next week. Unfortunately, we got some bad news. Some very costly news. My fuel pump is leaking fuel. If we don't get it fixed, there is always the possibility that with the heat, dry grass, etc. we could start a fire. Even worse, a spark could set it off while we are driving down the road. Any time. Any where. Not sure of what the exact amount will be, but we are looking between $500-$600 to replace it. Not something we had planned and just before vacation. For once, am glad I have a credit card I can put it on. Don't like using them, but have no choice this time. Just need to focus on getting a job so that we can get it paid off quickly.
Just got the phone call from Tom for us to go get the van. Guess this is a short post for today. I reckon I've said enough.
God is good, and He is faithful always. I have no doubt in my mind that He will provide all that we need as we need it. He has always been so gracious and so kind to us. I know that He has already prepared our provision. Thank you, Abba.
Blessings!
James 1:2-4 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complkete, not lacking anything."
Obviously we still need to develop our perseverance and our faith! On the good part of today, we did find a glass fireplace screen on Craigslist and was able to pick it up early this morning. We got it back home in one piece and it is sitting now in front of the fireplace. Not as elegant as the previous screen, but does what it is supposed to do. Keep Marley out of the plants sitting in the fireplace.
Tom took my van in today to get my 'free' oil change and lube for my birthday. He was also going to get the front end aligned as we are planning on taking it on vacation next week. Unfortunately, we got some bad news. Some very costly news. My fuel pump is leaking fuel. If we don't get it fixed, there is always the possibility that with the heat, dry grass, etc. we could start a fire. Even worse, a spark could set it off while we are driving down the road. Any time. Any where. Not sure of what the exact amount will be, but we are looking between $500-$600 to replace it. Not something we had planned and just before vacation. For once, am glad I have a credit card I can put it on. Don't like using them, but have no choice this time. Just need to focus on getting a job so that we can get it paid off quickly.
Just got the phone call from Tom for us to go get the van. Guess this is a short post for today. I reckon I've said enough.
God is good, and He is faithful always. I have no doubt in my mind that He will provide all that we need as we need it. He has always been so gracious and so kind to us. I know that He has already prepared our provision. Thank you, Abba.
Blessings!
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
It's been a bad morning.....
for my hubby. I mean, I think it did start well, but it seemed to go downhill from there. Only a couple incidents, but enough that he "quit" for today.
The first incident came when he was washing windows. He came into the kitchen to get some paper towels and the windex.... as he turned, somehow Marley got in between his feet - and he fell. He smacked the tile floor hard - bruising his hip and cutting a couple gashes in his elbow. It was scary for Marley too, but she wasn't hurt. But hubby was. Or rather, is. He showed me his hip a little bit ago, and yes, it is turning blue in that area. His elbow isn't too bad, the bleeding was not bad and a bandaid was able to cover the biggest cut.
As if that wasn't enough, and Marley had already been put in her crate due to the previous incident, hubby decided to clean out the fireplace in the kitchen. Yes, we have a fireplace in our kitchen. It is a workable gas fireplace, but we only use it to put my plants in. It had a glass fireplace screen. Note the word 'had'.
Hubby pulls the screen out to scrub the floor, after removing the plants and candle holders in the fireplace. He decides to clean the three-piece glass screen. Two sections are cleaned, and he's working on the third one when ...... CRASH!!
Somehow the first section of the screen, that he had just cleaned, fell out of the hinge and shattered everywhere! Tom was barefoot at the time and luckily his feet did not sustain any cuts. I will not repeat what he said when it fell.
Glass - shattered glass - everywhere! This was a very thick glass, so when it fell and shattered, it shattered into a million tiny pieces. Reminded me of a honeycomb. Our bedroom door was shut and the glass flew in three feet under the door. The fireplace, of which he was in front of, is on the far side of the kitchen. The glass shattered completely across the kitchen tile floor onto the first 6'-12' inches of the dining room carpet. I really do mean we had glass everywhere.
You know what? It is just glass, and it is replaceable. No, I didn't get upset or even angry. I helped him clean it up - via broom and vacuum cleaners - and then I took him out to lunch. It just seemed the right thing to do. We both did agree that perhaps he should stop trying to clean anything today.
We stopped at Lowes to see if they had fireplace screens, just to get an idea of replacement cost, but it is "out of season" so they won't have until perhaps October. No biggie. I can check Craigs List if I want one that bad any sooner. Home Depot doesn't have either - a friend shared that information when they stopped by in the midst of our cleaning up the glass. She took the big section of glass; decided she could paint something on it and hang in her bedroom. More power to her. She wouldn't take the other section so in the trash it went. One piece isn't going to do any good for anything, and I certainly wasn't gong to try my artistic talent on it.
So that has been my hubby's morning. Obviously this day wasn't going too well, but I had him laughing by the time we got our food at Whataburger (yeah, I'm a big spender). It is what it is, so why get upset. It makes it easier to deal with when one isn't pointing fingers or yelling at the other. I'm still in a good mood and he's getting better.
Life is much too short to spend it yelling at the kids, yelling at your spouse, or being angry or upset.
James 1:2-4 - "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
So how is your day going? I am trusting it is much better than my hubby's was. For me, I'm good. Just drinking my tea and moving right along.
Blessings!
The first incident came when he was washing windows. He came into the kitchen to get some paper towels and the windex.... as he turned, somehow Marley got in between his feet - and he fell. He smacked the tile floor hard - bruising his hip and cutting a couple gashes in his elbow. It was scary for Marley too, but she wasn't hurt. But hubby was. Or rather, is. He showed me his hip a little bit ago, and yes, it is turning blue in that area. His elbow isn't too bad, the bleeding was not bad and a bandaid was able to cover the biggest cut.
As if that wasn't enough, and Marley had already been put in her crate due to the previous incident, hubby decided to clean out the fireplace in the kitchen. Yes, we have a fireplace in our kitchen. It is a workable gas fireplace, but we only use it to put my plants in. It had a glass fireplace screen. Note the word 'had'.
Hubby pulls the screen out to scrub the floor, after removing the plants and candle holders in the fireplace. He decides to clean the three-piece glass screen. Two sections are cleaned, and he's working on the third one when ...... CRASH!!
Somehow the first section of the screen, that he had just cleaned, fell out of the hinge and shattered everywhere! Tom was barefoot at the time and luckily his feet did not sustain any cuts. I will not repeat what he said when it fell.
Glass - shattered glass - everywhere! This was a very thick glass, so when it fell and shattered, it shattered into a million tiny pieces. Reminded me of a honeycomb. Our bedroom door was shut and the glass flew in three feet under the door. The fireplace, of which he was in front of, is on the far side of the kitchen. The glass shattered completely across the kitchen tile floor onto the first 6'-12' inches of the dining room carpet. I really do mean we had glass everywhere.
You know what? It is just glass, and it is replaceable. No, I didn't get upset or even angry. I helped him clean it up - via broom and vacuum cleaners - and then I took him out to lunch. It just seemed the right thing to do. We both did agree that perhaps he should stop trying to clean anything today.
We stopped at Lowes to see if they had fireplace screens, just to get an idea of replacement cost, but it is "out of season" so they won't have until perhaps October. No biggie. I can check Craigs List if I want one that bad any sooner. Home Depot doesn't have either - a friend shared that information when they stopped by in the midst of our cleaning up the glass. She took the big section of glass; decided she could paint something on it and hang in her bedroom. More power to her. She wouldn't take the other section so in the trash it went. One piece isn't going to do any good for anything, and I certainly wasn't gong to try my artistic talent on it.
So that has been my hubby's morning. Obviously this day wasn't going too well, but I had him laughing by the time we got our food at Whataburger (yeah, I'm a big spender). It is what it is, so why get upset. It makes it easier to deal with when one isn't pointing fingers or yelling at the other. I'm still in a good mood and he's getting better.
Life is much too short to spend it yelling at the kids, yelling at your spouse, or being angry or upset.
James 1:2-4 - "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
So how is your day going? I am trusting it is much better than my hubby's was. For me, I'm good. Just drinking my tea and moving right along.
Blessings!
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Rich Doesn't Mean Expensive....
While reading my Bible during my quiet time this morning there was a section in Ecclesiastes that had that title. It made me pause and think about it. Rich doesn't mean expensive. Hmmm. I guess it can best be said by putting the scriptures down and what was said about it. Perhaps that will make you pause as well........
The Preacher (aka King Solomon) is a great example of how "the good life" lacks the power to make anyone truly happy. He wrote that he built houses, planted vineyards, made gardens and orchards, possessed flocks and herds, and collected silver and gold and the treasure of kings. He did not refuse himself any desire. And what was the result? The Preacher declared, "He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver; nor he who loves abundance, with increase. This also is vanity."
The richest moments in life are not the most expensive. Often they are the cheapest - the laughter of a child, a hug from a grandparent, a cup of coffee with a friend, a fishing trip with Dad, and "I love you" from Mom. The next time you find yourself wishing you had more, ask God to show you how rich you really are in Him.
I kind of like my thoughts on being 'rich', for that is what I am. I may not have much in money, but I have a lot of love to share. I can't go out and buy the biggest and bestest things, but am content with what I have. All I have belongs to Him, and He loves me. I'm really rich.
I learned a long time ago I needed to be content when times were really tough. We barely had money to buy food, let alone pay the bills. Struggles were common. Something you learn to just accept as part of life. But acceptance is more than that.
Paul says in Philippians 4:11-13 - "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
I learned to lean into these versus, especially the "I can do everything through him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13). Some days it is all that held me together. I guess, though, you could say that is why I have such strong faith and belief that no matter what, God is going to provide for our needs. I am not afraid of what the future brings, whether I find a job or not, whether there is food on the table. I believe with all my heart, soul, mind and strength, that God IS able and He will provide as we have need. God said it. I believe it. That settles it.
We don't need a lot of money to be rich. We don't need a lot of possessions. All we need is God.
Blessings!
Ecclesiastes 5:10-20
"10 Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness! 11 The more you have, the more people come to help you spend it. So what good is wealth—except perhaps to watch it slip through your fingers! 12 People who work hard sleep well, whether they eat little or much. But the rich seldom get a good night’s sleep. 13 There is another serious problem I have seen under the sun. Hoarding riches harms the saver. 14 Money is put into risky investments that turn sour, and everything is lost. In the end, there is nothing left to pass on to one’s children. 15 We all come to the end of our lives as naked and empty-handed as on the day we were born. We can’t take our riches with us. 16 And this, too, is a very serious problem. People leave this world no better off than when they came. All their hard work is for nothing—like working for the wind. 17 Throughout their lives, they live under a cloud—frustrated, discouraged, and angry. 18 Even so, I have noticed one thing, at least, that is good. It is good for people to eat, drink, and enjoy their work under the sun during the short life God has given them, and to accept their lot in life. 19 And it is a good thing to receive wealth from God and the good health to enjoy it. To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life—this is indeed a gift from God. 20 God keeps such people so busy enjoying life that they take no time to brood over the past."The Preacher (aka King Solomon) is a great example of how "the good life" lacks the power to make anyone truly happy. He wrote that he built houses, planted vineyards, made gardens and orchards, possessed flocks and herds, and collected silver and gold and the treasure of kings. He did not refuse himself any desire. And what was the result? The Preacher declared, "He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver; nor he who loves abundance, with increase. This also is vanity."
The richest moments in life are not the most expensive. Often they are the cheapest - the laughter of a child, a hug from a grandparent, a cup of coffee with a friend, a fishing trip with Dad, and "I love you" from Mom. The next time you find yourself wishing you had more, ask God to show you how rich you really are in Him.
I kind of like my thoughts on being 'rich', for that is what I am. I may not have much in money, but I have a lot of love to share. I can't go out and buy the biggest and bestest things, but am content with what I have. All I have belongs to Him, and He loves me. I'm really rich.
I learned a long time ago I needed to be content when times were really tough. We barely had money to buy food, let alone pay the bills. Struggles were common. Something you learn to just accept as part of life. But acceptance is more than that.
Paul says in Philippians 4:11-13 - "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
I learned to lean into these versus, especially the "I can do everything through him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13). Some days it is all that held me together. I guess, though, you could say that is why I have such strong faith and belief that no matter what, God is going to provide for our needs. I am not afraid of what the future brings, whether I find a job or not, whether there is food on the table. I believe with all my heart, soul, mind and strength, that God IS able and He will provide as we have need. God said it. I believe it. That settles it.
We don't need a lot of money to be rich. We don't need a lot of possessions. All we need is God.
Blessings!
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Mellow Sunday
It has turned out to be a mellow Sunday today. After church this morning we stopped at Fatburger for lunch and got a turkey burger. Can't believe what the price is for a combo nowadays! Will have to wait for coupons after today! Anyway - after that we came home - Tom to his office to work on things and me back to the pantry to finish up from yesterday. Or was it Friday. Oh yeah, it was Friday, for I was working on it when my daughter text'd me to come see their house (they just moved). So I changed clothes and headed out. Then, she invited us to stay for dinner, which we did. Didn't get anything else done on Friday.
Saturday my granddaughter came up from Tucson and I was able to see her for a couple hours. Grandchildren are a priority over housework any time - and I don't care who is coming to visit! Princess Bethany went with me to pick up a few groceries and when we came back we watched Cinderella together on video before I took her back home. She had plans with her Mama to go to a Mercury game in the evening. I love watching the princess movies with my granddaughters.
That's my excuse for not completing the pantry yesterday - and for finally completing it today. It is done. Finished. Yea for me!! Marley tried to help.....she knows her snacks are in there. I moved them from the counter in the pantry to the second shelf. Don't think she can reach those - yet. She has actually been pretty good today - and getting much better on letting us know when she needs to go out.
Now I need to do the bathroom and straighten up some other areas this next week. Knowing me and my enthusiasm for cleaning, it will be Friday. Our guests arrive on Saturday afternoon. We saw them in May so it hasn't been that long. It will be fun to have quality time with them and do some things. Poor Marley will need to go to the 'pet hotel' for a couple days.
I was sitting in my chair today playing Words with Friends - and Marley decided she wanted my attention. All of it. She literally came to the side of the chair and pulled herself up into my lap! Silly dog. She thinks she is a lap dog! She and I had a little chat about it, then I made her get down. She is only allowed on my futon in the back room, and not on any other furniture. She just wanted to be loved on, I'm sure.
Today has been fairly quiet since we got home from lunch. Tom did whatever he had to do and is now out here in the living room with me. As usual he sees me on the computer and says 'are you reading?'. No. Doing my blog. LOL No matter what time of day I am on the computer, he will invariably interrupt me in some way - if nothing else than to ask what am I doing - and I'm doing my blog. I have begun to tell him he has feelers out for when I'm typing my blog.
In church today we heard about Adam and Eve. You know who they are, right? The man and woman God created? We heard the story of how Eve first ate of the fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, and then gave to Adam. When God walked through the Garden later, they hid, because they were naked and ashamed. So when God calls out for Adam and it comes out what Eve - and Adam - had done, what does Adam say? "It was the woman YOU gave me!" Forget the fact that he ate it too, let's blame it on the woman! I wonder if that is why women have broad shoulders? Of course Eve blamed it on the serpent. I wonder why she didn't say "it was the serpent YOU allowed here!" Regardless, they sinned, and life changed.,
Kind of like our lives when we do things we shouldn't do, right? It a spouse cheats in the marriage, they usually suffer the consequences. If a person steals - and gets caught - their life changes too. If one spouse doesn't give the other enough attention, they may just lose them. We are to be held accountable for what we do - and for what we say.
Can you think of some areas in which you need to work? I know that I haven't mentioned every area that one can do some improving in. Take a few minutes to look over this past month, this past week. Are there some areas that you need to work on? Don't delay....you don't want to suffer consequences.
Make a plan to start right now in changing things in your life that you need to change. Take heed of what people share with you - sometimes they DO know better than you do. I guess the bottom line is, don't settle. Don't settle for mediocre; don't settle for a life of giving in; don't settle for a life of conflict and pain; don't settle for some one or some thing because you are lonely or because you just want it. Most of all, don't settle for a life-changing issue when you are being told you need to get your life straightened out. Many of us have had second chances; don't blow it.
What do you need to work on this week? Perhaps it is your mind, your emotions, your job, your life. Take time to process and see where God is leading you. He IS watching over you, you know!~
Blessings!
Saturday my granddaughter came up from Tucson and I was able to see her for a couple hours. Grandchildren are a priority over housework any time - and I don't care who is coming to visit! Princess Bethany went with me to pick up a few groceries and when we came back we watched Cinderella together on video before I took her back home. She had plans with her Mama to go to a Mercury game in the evening. I love watching the princess movies with my granddaughters.
That's my excuse for not completing the pantry yesterday - and for finally completing it today. It is done. Finished. Yea for me!! Marley tried to help.....she knows her snacks are in there. I moved them from the counter in the pantry to the second shelf. Don't think she can reach those - yet. She has actually been pretty good today - and getting much better on letting us know when she needs to go out.
Now I need to do the bathroom and straighten up some other areas this next week. Knowing me and my enthusiasm for cleaning, it will be Friday. Our guests arrive on Saturday afternoon. We saw them in May so it hasn't been that long. It will be fun to have quality time with them and do some things. Poor Marley will need to go to the 'pet hotel' for a couple days.
I was sitting in my chair today playing Words with Friends - and Marley decided she wanted my attention. All of it. She literally came to the side of the chair and pulled herself up into my lap! Silly dog. She thinks she is a lap dog! She and I had a little chat about it, then I made her get down. She is only allowed on my futon in the back room, and not on any other furniture. She just wanted to be loved on, I'm sure.
Today has been fairly quiet since we got home from lunch. Tom did whatever he had to do and is now out here in the living room with me. As usual he sees me on the computer and says 'are you reading?'. No. Doing my blog. LOL No matter what time of day I am on the computer, he will invariably interrupt me in some way - if nothing else than to ask what am I doing - and I'm doing my blog. I have begun to tell him he has feelers out for when I'm typing my blog.
In church today we heard about Adam and Eve. You know who they are, right? The man and woman God created? We heard the story of how Eve first ate of the fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, and then gave to Adam. When God walked through the Garden later, they hid, because they were naked and ashamed. So when God calls out for Adam and it comes out what Eve - and Adam - had done, what does Adam say? "It was the woman YOU gave me!" Forget the fact that he ate it too, let's blame it on the woman! I wonder if that is why women have broad shoulders? Of course Eve blamed it on the serpent. I wonder why she didn't say "it was the serpent YOU allowed here!" Regardless, they sinned, and life changed.,
Kind of like our lives when we do things we shouldn't do, right? It a spouse cheats in the marriage, they usually suffer the consequences. If a person steals - and gets caught - their life changes too. If one spouse doesn't give the other enough attention, they may just lose them. We are to be held accountable for what we do - and for what we say.
Can you think of some areas in which you need to work? I know that I haven't mentioned every area that one can do some improving in. Take a few minutes to look over this past month, this past week. Are there some areas that you need to work on? Don't delay....you don't want to suffer consequences.
Make a plan to start right now in changing things in your life that you need to change. Take heed of what people share with you - sometimes they DO know better than you do. I guess the bottom line is, don't settle. Don't settle for mediocre; don't settle for a life of giving in; don't settle for a life of conflict and pain; don't settle for some one or some thing because you are lonely or because you just want it. Most of all, don't settle for a life-changing issue when you are being told you need to get your life straightened out. Many of us have had second chances; don't blow it.
What do you need to work on this week? Perhaps it is your mind, your emotions, your job, your life. Take time to process and see where God is leading you. He IS watching over you, you know!~
Blessings!
Friday, August 24, 2012
House Cleaning today...
We have family arriving on September 1 so our housecleaning has gone to a new level. Instead of a "kiss and a promise" we are needing to do some deep cleaning. Needs it anyway as it has been awhile since we have done it.
Yesterday we had the carpet shampooed thoughout the house. This morning we have been returning chairs, etc. to their 'rightful place' and putting things back together. I'd like to get some things cleaned off before next week, but will take it a little at a time. I can always find something to do in place of something else. Does that make me ADD? or ADHD? I can have a dozen projects and should specifically focus on one and I will instead choose another project to avoid the one I should focus on. How about you? Do you find yourself doing that?
For example - I need to clean off my desk area - and even clean out some boxes. I'd rather mop the floor instead. :-) Or working on my blog instead of getting started on anything.
For today, my plan is, when I finish this blog I am going to clean out the pantry. I am trying hard not to think of another project I need to do (clean the bathroom, sort through boxes) and focus on it. The pantry isn't too bad - just need to clean off all the shelves and dust, then put back all the dishes and food. Then again, cleaning the pantry - cleaning the bathroom .... wow, it could go either way! The pantry will take much longer to complete. The bathroom is a lot more manual labor. And the bathroom will still need to be cleaned - whether today or another day soon. But I did tell Tom the pantry is getting done today so I know I have to do it - or he will remind me. Sometimes again and again. :-x
We have accomplished one thing already this morning - after I cooked breakfast, that is. We took Marley in to get her nails done. I thought they, meaning Petco, Petsmart, etc. just clipped nails for the pets. We discovered that - at least at Petco, they file down with the drill, buffing the nail and make it smooth. We play with Marley's paws so she is used to someone touching her paws, but we weren't sure how the buffing would play out with the noise of the drill. I clipped her nails last month, but was afraid to get too close due to the vein everyone talks about in their nails. We took her to have the filing/buffing done this morning - and she did just fine. We watched outside the windows (thinking if we were out of the way she would be better off) and the girls were letting Marley get to know them before they attempted anything. We really felt good about letting them 'groom' her nails. I'm sure Marley really liked it for we gave her treats for being such a good girl.
Our own lives sometimes need deep cleaning too, don't you think? No, I'm not talking about physical cleaning, but the deep down spiritual cleaning. We often need to step back and evaluate where we are in our life. What was our dream, and where have we come in accomplishing it. Has our dream changed and is it for the better.
Do we even have a dream? Perhaps that is the greater question. My dreams seem to have all fallen by the wayside; at best put on hold. I don't know that I could share specifically what my dreams have been, or are, for at times the loss of these dreams are painful. I know that God knows and I can talk with Him about them anytime, so no one else needs to know. They wouldn't understand anyway, but I know that God does. He knows me better than I know myself.
Psalm 139 talks about how well God knows us. Do you remember that one? I memorized it one time, but don't know if I could do it now. For review, here it is.... in the NIV 1984 version.
Psalm 139
O Lord, you have searched me
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O Lord.
I love versus 23 and 24 above, and pray them to God often. Sometimes He shows me immediately what I need to do, other times He waits and lets me see it in time.
What about you? Take a moment and say those two versus aloud. Pause and see what response you get. Does something come to mind? Maybe it is God showing you what you need to work on.
Time for some housecleaning? Do some spiritual housecleaning as well.
Blessings!
Yesterday we had the carpet shampooed thoughout the house. This morning we have been returning chairs, etc. to their 'rightful place' and putting things back together. I'd like to get some things cleaned off before next week, but will take it a little at a time. I can always find something to do in place of something else. Does that make me ADD? or ADHD? I can have a dozen projects and should specifically focus on one and I will instead choose another project to avoid the one I should focus on. How about you? Do you find yourself doing that?
For example - I need to clean off my desk area - and even clean out some boxes. I'd rather mop the floor instead. :-) Or working on my blog instead of getting started on anything.
For today, my plan is, when I finish this blog I am going to clean out the pantry. I am trying hard not to think of another project I need to do (clean the bathroom, sort through boxes) and focus on it. The pantry isn't too bad - just need to clean off all the shelves and dust, then put back all the dishes and food. Then again, cleaning the pantry - cleaning the bathroom .... wow, it could go either way! The pantry will take much longer to complete. The bathroom is a lot more manual labor. And the bathroom will still need to be cleaned - whether today or another day soon. But I did tell Tom the pantry is getting done today so I know I have to do it - or he will remind me. Sometimes again and again. :-x
We have accomplished one thing already this morning - after I cooked breakfast, that is. We took Marley in to get her nails done. I thought they, meaning Petco, Petsmart, etc. just clipped nails for the pets. We discovered that - at least at Petco, they file down with the drill, buffing the nail and make it smooth. We play with Marley's paws so she is used to someone touching her paws, but we weren't sure how the buffing would play out with the noise of the drill. I clipped her nails last month, but was afraid to get too close due to the vein everyone talks about in their nails. We took her to have the filing/buffing done this morning - and she did just fine. We watched outside the windows (thinking if we were out of the way she would be better off) and the girls were letting Marley get to know them before they attempted anything. We really felt good about letting them 'groom' her nails. I'm sure Marley really liked it for we gave her treats for being such a good girl.
Our own lives sometimes need deep cleaning too, don't you think? No, I'm not talking about physical cleaning, but the deep down spiritual cleaning. We often need to step back and evaluate where we are in our life. What was our dream, and where have we come in accomplishing it. Has our dream changed and is it for the better.
Do we even have a dream? Perhaps that is the greater question. My dreams seem to have all fallen by the wayside; at best put on hold. I don't know that I could share specifically what my dreams have been, or are, for at times the loss of these dreams are painful. I know that God knows and I can talk with Him about them anytime, so no one else needs to know. They wouldn't understand anyway, but I know that God does. He knows me better than I know myself.
Psalm 139 talks about how well God knows us. Do you remember that one? I memorized it one time, but don't know if I could do it now. For review, here it is.... in the NIV 1984 version.
Psalm 139
O Lord, you have searched me
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O Lord.
5 You hem me in —behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
you have laid your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
7 Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
11 If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,”
12 even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
and the light become night around me,”
12 even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together
16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together
16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18 Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
I am still with you.
How vast is the sum of them!
18 Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
I am still with you.
19 If only you would slay the wicked, O God!
Away from me, you bloodthirsty men!
20 They speak of you with evil intent;
your adversaries misuse your name.
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord,
and abhor those who rise up against you?
22 I have nothing but hatred for them;
I count them my enemies.
Away from me, you bloodthirsty men!
20 They speak of you with evil intent;
your adversaries misuse your name.
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord,
and abhor those who rise up against you?
22 I have nothing but hatred for them;
I count them my enemies.
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
I love versus 23 and 24 above, and pray them to God often. Sometimes He shows me immediately what I need to do, other times He waits and lets me see it in time.
What about you? Take a moment and say those two versus aloud. Pause and see what response you get. Does something come to mind? Maybe it is God showing you what you need to work on.
Time for some housecleaning? Do some spiritual housecleaning as well.
Blessings!
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Classes start tonight!
Our classes at church start tonight which means the 'Not A Fan' class is one of them! I've been reading over the first week schedule and mentallly thinking how to bring it all together in an interesting way. Need to watch the tutorial video and the first week again - want to make sure I am ready! I've also 'put out on facebook' an opportunity for anyone who wanted to read the book (a chapter a week) and have a discussion on it. It is a "secret" group in that only those invited to the group can see what is going on. I'm going to start posting to it tomorrow morning. If that works well, then may do another book after that. I enjoy it too, and that is what counts, right?
The 'best' part about the Wednesday night groups starting up again is that the meals also start up. Manota does an awesome job of creating meals for us for just $3 each. Tonight we are having oriental chicken salad. I'm not too sure about it, but I'm willing to give it a shot. She has to make it so that everyone can be happy. I'll have lettuce and I'll have chicken - I'm good! And of course she always has something for dessert - her brownies are awesome!
There will be some great classes going on - if it wasn't my class, there is one other I'd probably go to - even though it is usually packed with about 40 women. Still, I enjoy the class.
Not much going on today - been working on my resume. Again. Need to get back at it so this is it for today.
Maybe will have something good to share tomorrow.
Have a great day.
Blessings!!
The 'best' part about the Wednesday night groups starting up again is that the meals also start up. Manota does an awesome job of creating meals for us for just $3 each. Tonight we are having oriental chicken salad. I'm not too sure about it, but I'm willing to give it a shot. She has to make it so that everyone can be happy. I'll have lettuce and I'll have chicken - I'm good! And of course she always has something for dessert - her brownies are awesome!
There will be some great classes going on - if it wasn't my class, there is one other I'd probably go to - even though it is usually packed with about 40 women. Still, I enjoy the class.
Not much going on today - been working on my resume. Again. Need to get back at it so this is it for today.
Maybe will have something good to share tomorrow.
Have a great day.
Blessings!!
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
MMM my house is smelling good!
I cooked up some ground turkey the other day that I had thawed. This morning I threw it, along with peppers, onions, tomato sauce, tomato paste, spices, garlic, black olive slices - all that into a large pan and it is on the stove simmering. What am I making? My proven recipe for spaghetti sauce. The longer the flavors simmer together, the better it tastes. Mmmm it will be perfect by dinnertime!
I love to cook, although I haven't been doing much of it. Here I am off work and should be trying to cook all the time - and I don't. Actually, my biggest excuse is that this summer has been too hot to even think of cooking in the kitchen or having the oven on longer than 30 minutes! Well, it isn't hot in here, but it does increase the mugginess. If there is such a word.
But my house smells good. Smells like a good Italian restaurant! Makes me want to watch "Under the Tuscan Sun" with Diana Lane. Love that movie! Love the scenery in it, love the story. There is life after divorce! One just needs to take their time.
I guess now that school has started up there is a lot of sickness going around. Saw on facebook that a friend's daughter brought her a germ home from school. I see that my middle child isn't feeling well this morning - although he is blaming his on the air conditioner - or lack thereof. He has had his struggles with that this year - hot, cold, sweating, muggy - no thanks! It feels really muggy in our house this morning and the air conditioner does work!
So I'm wondering if I should have made homemade chicken and noodle soup last weekend instead of baking the whole chicken. Oh well, too late for that now. We have eaten nearly all the chicken and threw away the broth. I need to get motivated to do more of that I love to do - cook!
So how is your house smelling this morning? Does it have some 'stinking thinking' going on in it or have you aired out difficulties and things are calm and happy in your home?
How about some Proverbs this morning?
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight."
Your way isn't always the best way - trust others' opinions as well - seek wisdom before making any major decisions.
Proverbs 4:23-27 "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil."
Proverbs 10:9 "The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out."
and one more....
Proverbs 15:1 "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."
Hope your house is smelling good!
Blessings!
I love to cook, although I haven't been doing much of it. Here I am off work and should be trying to cook all the time - and I don't. Actually, my biggest excuse is that this summer has been too hot to even think of cooking in the kitchen or having the oven on longer than 30 minutes! Well, it isn't hot in here, but it does increase the mugginess. If there is such a word.
But my house smells good. Smells like a good Italian restaurant! Makes me want to watch "Under the Tuscan Sun" with Diana Lane. Love that movie! Love the scenery in it, love the story. There is life after divorce! One just needs to take their time.
I guess now that school has started up there is a lot of sickness going around. Saw on facebook that a friend's daughter brought her a germ home from school. I see that my middle child isn't feeling well this morning - although he is blaming his on the air conditioner - or lack thereof. He has had his struggles with that this year - hot, cold, sweating, muggy - no thanks! It feels really muggy in our house this morning and the air conditioner does work!
So I'm wondering if I should have made homemade chicken and noodle soup last weekend instead of baking the whole chicken. Oh well, too late for that now. We have eaten nearly all the chicken and threw away the broth. I need to get motivated to do more of that I love to do - cook!
So how is your house smelling this morning? Does it have some 'stinking thinking' going on in it or have you aired out difficulties and things are calm and happy in your home?
How about some Proverbs this morning?
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight."
Your way isn't always the best way - trust others' opinions as well - seek wisdom before making any major decisions.
Proverbs 4:23-27 "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil."
Proverbs 10:9 "The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out."
and one more....
Proverbs 15:1 "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."
Hope your house is smelling good!
Blessings!
Monday, August 20, 2012
Battle Scars
Yep, I have battle scars - as has Tom. What happened? We tried to figure out how to put a flimsy harness on Marley last night. Yep, you guessed it. Not only did we not succeed, we were clawed. Tom has a "one liner' on his arm about an inch or so long. I got a bit more. It is corner shaped, about an inch either way. Somehow her claw got into and under my skin and just cleaned it out. She went to her crate after that episode! It wasn't her fault. We were wanting to help her and show her how much she was going to end up liking it - but she was confused and scared and fought back. I'm going to purchase a solid harness today!! I want to get her out walking!
Kind of like what we do at times, isn't it? Someone says something to us for our own good (so they believe) and we take offense and run away. Or we say cruel things back to them. Making wounds, scarring them. We've all done it at times, haven't we. Not a question. Spouses say things that leave scars, siblings say things that leave scars, and yeah, parents and children leave lots of scars sometimes.
But as Marley had already forgiven us - and us her - within a very short time, we as "people" need to learn to forgive. We need to let go of the scars that life - and people - have dealt us over the years. We need to forgive ourselves for the scars we inflict upon ourselves.
How many times have you gotten angry about something that you had no control over? I've heard of people getting so angry their car wouldn't start they go out and start hitting it. Like that is really going to help!! How many times have you gotten upset because you want to help someone and they refuse your advice? Well, on that one, we probably just have to let them fall on their face - and then prevent ourselves from saying "I told you so". They don't need to be slammed to the ground when their world falls apart.
I read my middle child's blog this morning in which he shares that their air conditioner has gone out. I know the evap cooler got turned on the other day just to bring a little coolness, but with our high humidity it is not possible for the evap cooler, which pumps moisture into the room, to bring much relief. Still, my son who has a hot temper at times, seems to have determined 'it is what it is' and is doing what he can to take care of the problem. He is dripping in sweat, yet, he doesn't seem to be outrageously angry about it. I'm proud of him. He is checking on getting the air conditioner replaced and is seeking alternatives to get cool. Like going to a bookstore or someplace else that will be cool for him during the day.
Heat can make a lot of people get upset easily. I know. I live with someone who can not take the heat - they really get irritable and complain. I'm just the opposite, unfortunately. Or is that fortunately? When the air conditioner or fan is running I usually want a blanket to throw over me! Not to say I don't get hot and sweaty at times too - I do! But once I cool off, back under the blanket I go. Still, I don't know if I could be in a muggy condition for any great length of time.
I am not sure if I am to do a blog this morning or not! For the third time my blog disappears - I must be hitting a key a certain way and it takes off. So - while I still have this one up here - which, incidentally, is my second blog since I decided not to post the first one I started - and although I have lost it once - want to post it while I can.
Hopefully you are not dealing with any battle scars this morning - whether physically, mentally, or emotionally. Make amends if at all possible; forgive, and move on. Life is too short to live with battle scars.
Blessings!
Kind of like what we do at times, isn't it? Someone says something to us for our own good (so they believe) and we take offense and run away. Or we say cruel things back to them. Making wounds, scarring them. We've all done it at times, haven't we. Not a question. Spouses say things that leave scars, siblings say things that leave scars, and yeah, parents and children leave lots of scars sometimes.
But as Marley had already forgiven us - and us her - within a very short time, we as "people" need to learn to forgive. We need to let go of the scars that life - and people - have dealt us over the years. We need to forgive ourselves for the scars we inflict upon ourselves.
How many times have you gotten angry about something that you had no control over? I've heard of people getting so angry their car wouldn't start they go out and start hitting it. Like that is really going to help!! How many times have you gotten upset because you want to help someone and they refuse your advice? Well, on that one, we probably just have to let them fall on their face - and then prevent ourselves from saying "I told you so". They don't need to be slammed to the ground when their world falls apart.
I read my middle child's blog this morning in which he shares that their air conditioner has gone out. I know the evap cooler got turned on the other day just to bring a little coolness, but with our high humidity it is not possible for the evap cooler, which pumps moisture into the room, to bring much relief. Still, my son who has a hot temper at times, seems to have determined 'it is what it is' and is doing what he can to take care of the problem. He is dripping in sweat, yet, he doesn't seem to be outrageously angry about it. I'm proud of him. He is checking on getting the air conditioner replaced and is seeking alternatives to get cool. Like going to a bookstore or someplace else that will be cool for him during the day.
Heat can make a lot of people get upset easily. I know. I live with someone who can not take the heat - they really get irritable and complain. I'm just the opposite, unfortunately. Or is that fortunately? When the air conditioner or fan is running I usually want a blanket to throw over me! Not to say I don't get hot and sweaty at times too - I do! But once I cool off, back under the blanket I go. Still, I don't know if I could be in a muggy condition for any great length of time.
I am not sure if I am to do a blog this morning or not! For the third time my blog disappears - I must be hitting a key a certain way and it takes off. So - while I still have this one up here - which, incidentally, is my second blog since I decided not to post the first one I started - and although I have lost it once - want to post it while I can.
Hopefully you are not dealing with any battle scars this morning - whether physically, mentally, or emotionally. Make amends if at all possible; forgive, and move on. Life is too short to live with battle scars.
Blessings!
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Classes starting soon!
Our Wednesday evening classes at North Hills will be starting soon. In fact, they will be starting up this Wednesday. We will be having several things going on - mainly on The Story, by Max Lucado and Randy Frazee - which a sermon will be presented each week. I'm helping co-lead a class on The Story with Tom and another couple starting on Thursday evenings, but I'm doing a separate class on Wednesday evenings on Not A Fan by Kyle Idleman.
I've already given a review on Not A Fan so won't go into that again. I'm looking forward to facilitating this class. It is actually different than the book itself. Oh yeah, if you have been following along for some time, around Easter, City on the Hill Productions posted the episodes - and I snagged them and posted here on my blog. I hope you were able to see at least a few of the episodes. If you saw them, then you know the impact they can make.
Not A Fan challenges you to consider what it really means to call yourself a Christian. You are invited to take an honest look at your relationship with Jesus. How would you consider yourself at this moment? How would you like to consider yourself? Be honest!
I mentioned the other day that I had bought a couple bird feeders and have them out in the back yard for my enjoyment. I have the feeders placed where I can sit here at my computer (or stand at the back windows) and see any birds that fly in to feed. Yesterday I actually saw one light on the actual feeder - and about 20 birds plus one pigeon on the ground pecking any fallen seeds. I don't know where they are getting the fallen seed for I haven't seen any birds on the feeder yet!
As I sit here and look out my window at the bird feeders and type this blog, I am reminded of the upcoming class on Not A Fan. I guess you could compare the birds who fly by the feeders, not sure if they want to take a chance on what is inside of them, as fans. After all, they can see it looks good, it surely is healthy for them. It would help them live longer. All this good food - in two different feeders out there - and the birds don't seem to be interested. Other than what lands on the ground. The ground seeds are good enough for them. After all, they are still fed.
Kind of like us in our Christian walk, isn't it? We want to be labeled as a Christian. After all, we go to church every Sunday, we throw our few bucks in the offering plate, we even attend classes on occasion. We're a Christian, right? We are willing to settle for mediocre living. Christians aren't to be mediocre in living the Christian Life! Chuck Swindoll wrote a book on living above the mediocre life! We are content to be just "fans" in our Christian walk. Doing only enough of what we should do as Christians. Fans want to get close enough to Jesus to get the benefits, but not so close they may have to make a sacrifice of something they value.
But what does it mean to be a Follower of Jesus Christ and not a Fan? You may ask, "Isn't it going to church and putting money in the offering plate, attending classes, etc?" Yes it is that. But it is also so much more. Being a Follower of Jesus means that when He asks you to let go of something, you will do it immediately. It means when He tells you to do something, even when it doesn't make sense, even when it hurts to do so, you will do it. It means walking away from what you hold dear if He asks you, and walk with Him.
In some religions if you become a Follower of Jesus Christ, you are immediately exiled from your family. Those from countries who do that will not take being a Follower of Christ lightly. They don't just run to the altar and think that is all it will cost them. Sometimes it costs them everything. Sometimes it even costs their lives to Follow Jesus.
What are you willing to give up to follow Jesus? Or are you content in just being a fan?
Blessings!
I've already given a review on Not A Fan so won't go into that again. I'm looking forward to facilitating this class. It is actually different than the book itself. Oh yeah, if you have been following along for some time, around Easter, City on the Hill Productions posted the episodes - and I snagged them and posted here on my blog. I hope you were able to see at least a few of the episodes. If you saw them, then you know the impact they can make.
Not A Fan challenges you to consider what it really means to call yourself a Christian. You are invited to take an honest look at your relationship with Jesus. How would you consider yourself at this moment? How would you like to consider yourself? Be honest!
I mentioned the other day that I had bought a couple bird feeders and have them out in the back yard for my enjoyment. I have the feeders placed where I can sit here at my computer (or stand at the back windows) and see any birds that fly in to feed. Yesterday I actually saw one light on the actual feeder - and about 20 birds plus one pigeon on the ground pecking any fallen seeds. I don't know where they are getting the fallen seed for I haven't seen any birds on the feeder yet!
As I sit here and look out my window at the bird feeders and type this blog, I am reminded of the upcoming class on Not A Fan. I guess you could compare the birds who fly by the feeders, not sure if they want to take a chance on what is inside of them, as fans. After all, they can see it looks good, it surely is healthy for them. It would help them live longer. All this good food - in two different feeders out there - and the birds don't seem to be interested. Other than what lands on the ground. The ground seeds are good enough for them. After all, they are still fed.
Kind of like us in our Christian walk, isn't it? We want to be labeled as a Christian. After all, we go to church every Sunday, we throw our few bucks in the offering plate, we even attend classes on occasion. We're a Christian, right? We are willing to settle for mediocre living. Christians aren't to be mediocre in living the Christian Life! Chuck Swindoll wrote a book on living above the mediocre life! We are content to be just "fans" in our Christian walk. Doing only enough of what we should do as Christians. Fans want to get close enough to Jesus to get the benefits, but not so close they may have to make a sacrifice of something they value.
But what does it mean to be a Follower of Jesus Christ and not a Fan? You may ask, "Isn't it going to church and putting money in the offering plate, attending classes, etc?" Yes it is that. But it is also so much more. Being a Follower of Jesus means that when He asks you to let go of something, you will do it immediately. It means when He tells you to do something, even when it doesn't make sense, even when it hurts to do so, you will do it. It means walking away from what you hold dear if He asks you, and walk with Him.
In some religions if you become a Follower of Jesus Christ, you are immediately exiled from your family. Those from countries who do that will not take being a Follower of Christ lightly. They don't just run to the altar and think that is all it will cost them. Sometimes it costs them everything. Sometimes it even costs their lives to Follow Jesus.
What are you willing to give up to follow Jesus? Or are you content in just being a fan?
Blessings!
Friday, August 17, 2012
Where are the birds?
I can't wait until tomorrow morning. Oh wait, I won't be here. Well, I will, but I will be leaving early to meet with girlfriends to do our 'monthly' walk. At least one of them. Why can't I wait?
Because I have bought bird feeders, and shepherd hooks and bird seed..... and they (the birds) are currently no where to be seen! I'm thinking they need early morning when it is much cooler weather. I'm hoping. I have a hummingbird feeder in the front yard by the trees, but here in the back yard there isn't much shade. So - the feeders are near the pool in the middle of a grassy area. I can see them from my window as I am on the computer. Well, I would like eventually to see birds sitting on the bird feeders.
My brother has several bird feeders in his back yard in Indiana and I just loved sitting on the back porch watching them when I was back there earlier this year. He has this huge woodpecker - and now a female woodpecker that makes noises to announce they are heading in to the feeders. The noise, he says, is to get the other birds to leave. And they do. Occasionally he will send me a video of the woodpeckers flying in and landing on a nearby tree watching the feeders to see if any bird is there. Of course being in Indiana my brother has the cooler weather (maybe not right now) but also lots of greenery. He lives next to a wooded area.
So I have purchased bird feeders and the like with the hopes that birds will like us too. We used to have a couple feeders in the front yard, but when we would plant grass seed, well, you understand what happened. It's hard enough to keep the pigeons out of the front yard seed. But the back yard has very little grass and we do not seed it. What is there is there. Lots of dirt now that Marley is making her paths around the pool. I'm still hoping this fall anyway the birds will come and light on the perches and let me watch them.
All this makes me think of the scripture in Luke 12. It is all covered in the section of 'Do Not Worry'. What? Is that something you need to see to know why you should not worry? Read this!
Luke 12:22-34 - " Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?
“Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.
“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
I don't need to set out bird seed in fancy bird feeders on shepherd hooks for the birds because God is already at work providing food for the birds. He doesn't need me to worry about what am I going to wear to work or to the store or just on a day to day basis. He is already at work providing for my every need. Regardless of what it is.
Think about it. You may think you are struggling and don't have all you NEED, but is it not what all you WANT? We sometimes confuse need with want - at least I do! I have a thought right now that I WANT to do, but do I NEED to do it? Nope. But I want to. :-)
I asked my daughter to go shopping with me one day next week. I "need" to find a nice outfit to interview in. It has been about a year since I have bought dress clothes. Actually, since we wore jeans the past six months at the office before I left due to construction, it has probably been longer than that! But, I am picky and feel nothing looks good on me. Or just that nothing looks good. I don't like the current styles of clothes - I guess I'm just too conservative at times. Do I NEED to go get a new outfit? Probably not - I could make do with what I have, but a new outfit for interviewing may boost my confidence in my appearance. Maybe. Now to do something with the rest of this body! Just kidding! Can't afford plastic surgery!!
ok with that and will make do with what I have. My husband is really very lucky. I am more prone to buying shorts, jeans and workout tops than I am dress clothes. I rarely spend a lot on clothes, just because nothing pleases me. But if someone else gets it for me I love it. Go figure!
So I guess instead of 'worrying' about the birds, I need to just sit back and trust that God is going to not only provide food for the birds, He is going to find a job for me, and He is going to provide something for me to wear to the job interview. That works for me!
What are you thinking about?
Blessings!
Because I have bought bird feeders, and shepherd hooks and bird seed..... and they (the birds) are currently no where to be seen! I'm thinking they need early morning when it is much cooler weather. I'm hoping. I have a hummingbird feeder in the front yard by the trees, but here in the back yard there isn't much shade. So - the feeders are near the pool in the middle of a grassy area. I can see them from my window as I am on the computer. Well, I would like eventually to see birds sitting on the bird feeders.
My brother has several bird feeders in his back yard in Indiana and I just loved sitting on the back porch watching them when I was back there earlier this year. He has this huge woodpecker - and now a female woodpecker that makes noises to announce they are heading in to the feeders. The noise, he says, is to get the other birds to leave. And they do. Occasionally he will send me a video of the woodpeckers flying in and landing on a nearby tree watching the feeders to see if any bird is there. Of course being in Indiana my brother has the cooler weather (maybe not right now) but also lots of greenery. He lives next to a wooded area.
So I have purchased bird feeders and the like with the hopes that birds will like us too. We used to have a couple feeders in the front yard, but when we would plant grass seed, well, you understand what happened. It's hard enough to keep the pigeons out of the front yard seed. But the back yard has very little grass and we do not seed it. What is there is there. Lots of dirt now that Marley is making her paths around the pool. I'm still hoping this fall anyway the birds will come and light on the perches and let me watch them.
All this makes me think of the scripture in Luke 12. It is all covered in the section of 'Do Not Worry'. What? Is that something you need to see to know why you should not worry? Read this!
Luke 12:22-34 - " Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?
“Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.
“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
I don't need to set out bird seed in fancy bird feeders on shepherd hooks for the birds because God is already at work providing food for the birds. He doesn't need me to worry about what am I going to wear to work or to the store or just on a day to day basis. He is already at work providing for my every need. Regardless of what it is.
Think about it. You may think you are struggling and don't have all you NEED, but is it not what all you WANT? We sometimes confuse need with want - at least I do! I have a thought right now that I WANT to do, but do I NEED to do it? Nope. But I want to. :-)
I asked my daughter to go shopping with me one day next week. I "need" to find a nice outfit to interview in. It has been about a year since I have bought dress clothes. Actually, since we wore jeans the past six months at the office before I left due to construction, it has probably been longer than that! But, I am picky and feel nothing looks good on me. Or just that nothing looks good. I don't like the current styles of clothes - I guess I'm just too conservative at times. Do I NEED to go get a new outfit? Probably not - I could make do with what I have, but a new outfit for interviewing may boost my confidence in my appearance. Maybe. Now to do something with the rest of this body! Just kidding! Can't afford plastic surgery!!
ok with that and will make do with what I have. My husband is really very lucky. I am more prone to buying shorts, jeans and workout tops than I am dress clothes. I rarely spend a lot on clothes, just because nothing pleases me. But if someone else gets it for me I love it. Go figure!
So I guess instead of 'worrying' about the birds, I need to just sit back and trust that God is going to not only provide food for the birds, He is going to find a job for me, and He is going to provide something for me to wear to the job interview. That works for me!
What are you thinking about?
Blessings!
Thursday, August 16, 2012
No Flush Niacin
Whew! Tom picked up a bottle of Niacin recently as we were nearly out of what we had. He discovered yesterday that he neglected to select the 'no flush' kind. He had mixed what was left of the 'no flush niacin' bottle with the new bottle so we didn't know which capsule was which. He soon found out he got the new Niacin. His body started flushing and tingling. It wasn't happening to me. Yea, I must be immune.
Not. I got a dose of the new niacin today. Oh my goodness! Remember how it feels when you squeeze your hand real tight, I mean really tight, and then open it and it tingles? Increase that feeling 100% and add heat to it and spread it all over your body. Yipes! That bottle will go in the back for emergencies. Like when we run out of the no flush niacin and haven't gotten to the store yet. Maybe. It was nearly nauseating. Wow. Definitely a weird feeling! It has lasted about 30 minutes now, but is fading, thank goodness. Nope, here comes the intense burning of the skin again!!
Sometimes we all do that, don't we? We want to try something, but we don't stop to read the label (or directions). We think we know everything we need to know about vitamins. About putting bicycles together. About driving a car. About anything. And, since we know it all, what makes anyone think that we need to look at labels or read directions?
After all, we hear that carrots are good for the eyes so we eat carrots. We hear fish is good for lowering cholesterol so we eat fish. Someone tells us that taking vitamin E will improve our sex life, well, let's not go there. But we hear only part of the story and only what we want to hear. We dissect out what we want to know and ignore the rest of the story.
Sometimes we do that with the Bible, don't we? God has inspired, has breathed if you will, every Word written in the Bible. He didn't do it for His enjoyment. He did it so that we could live healthy, happy, and productive lives. He didn't create a book of demands and stories of lust, robbery, beatings, wars, murders, etc. just to entertain us. He wrote it so that we could Live. He didn't give us a list of ten suggestions, He gave us ten commandments that will keep us healthy and strong in mind, body, and in spirit. When we disobey them, we find ourselves in all kinds of trouble!
When was the last time you picked up your Bible and read it? I mean really read it. Yes, it takes time to go through it well. I've gotten to where I stretch it out over a year in my quiet time, although I do extra reading of different passages separately from that. There is so much good stuff in the Bible! When I'm struggling I can go to Psalms and find verses that say exactly what I'm feeling. It's cool knowing that King David felt the same way I did at times. If I want to find JOY, I read Philippians.
Did you know that you can read the entire book of Philippians in about 20 minutes? See, it doesn't take long to read through one book! I used to say that the book of James was my favorite.... but it beats me up every time I read it. You know, the part where it says "If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless." (James 1:26) Or perhaps "Do not conform any longer 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." (Romans 12:2) The Word is there for our good, to instruct us, to help us live productive and healthy lives.
So, how are you doing? Are you 'one of those' who reads labels and instructions so you get it right the first time - or, like us this time, grabbing what is the best price and not looking at what is on the label? I can guarantee you from now on we both will be looking at the label of the niacin bottle! In fact, I may just become an avid label reader! My skin is itching like crazy!
Take time to read what is important. What doesn't seem important may be the most important thing you read that day.
Blessings!
Not. I got a dose of the new niacin today. Oh my goodness! Remember how it feels when you squeeze your hand real tight, I mean really tight, and then open it and it tingles? Increase that feeling 100% and add heat to it and spread it all over your body. Yipes! That bottle will go in the back for emergencies. Like when we run out of the no flush niacin and haven't gotten to the store yet. Maybe. It was nearly nauseating. Wow. Definitely a weird feeling! It has lasted about 30 minutes now, but is fading, thank goodness. Nope, here comes the intense burning of the skin again!!
Sometimes we all do that, don't we? We want to try something, but we don't stop to read the label (or directions). We think we know everything we need to know about vitamins. About putting bicycles together. About driving a car. About anything. And, since we know it all, what makes anyone think that we need to look at labels or read directions?
After all, we hear that carrots are good for the eyes so we eat carrots. We hear fish is good for lowering cholesterol so we eat fish. Someone tells us that taking vitamin E will improve our sex life, well, let's not go there. But we hear only part of the story and only what we want to hear. We dissect out what we want to know and ignore the rest of the story.
Sometimes we do that with the Bible, don't we? God has inspired, has breathed if you will, every Word written in the Bible. He didn't do it for His enjoyment. He did it so that we could live healthy, happy, and productive lives. He didn't create a book of demands and stories of lust, robbery, beatings, wars, murders, etc. just to entertain us. He wrote it so that we could Live. He didn't give us a list of ten suggestions, He gave us ten commandments that will keep us healthy and strong in mind, body, and in spirit. When we disobey them, we find ourselves in all kinds of trouble!
When was the last time you picked up your Bible and read it? I mean really read it. Yes, it takes time to go through it well. I've gotten to where I stretch it out over a year in my quiet time, although I do extra reading of different passages separately from that. There is so much good stuff in the Bible! When I'm struggling I can go to Psalms and find verses that say exactly what I'm feeling. It's cool knowing that King David felt the same way I did at times. If I want to find JOY, I read Philippians.
Did you know that you can read the entire book of Philippians in about 20 minutes? See, it doesn't take long to read through one book! I used to say that the book of James was my favorite.... but it beats me up every time I read it. You know, the part where it says "If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless." (James 1:26) Or perhaps "Do not conform any longer 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." (Romans 12:2) The Word is there for our good, to instruct us, to help us live productive and healthy lives.
So, how are you doing? Are you 'one of those' who reads labels and instructions so you get it right the first time - or, like us this time, grabbing what is the best price and not looking at what is on the label? I can guarantee you from now on we both will be looking at the label of the niacin bottle! In fact, I may just become an avid label reader! My skin is itching like crazy!
Take time to read what is important. What doesn't seem important may be the most important thing you read that day.
Blessings!
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Trying to Reschedule 'Life'
I have determined that once I get on the computer during the day - that day is done for. By that I mean I spend enough time on the computer checking a blog, writing my blog, checking emails and applying for jobs (some applications are so detailed it takes over an hour to complete!) that before I know it, the day has slipped away.
Therefore, starting today, I told my hubby I was going to do something different. My quiet time always comes first, of course, but instead of fixing breakfast (well, I do sometimes cook) and going to my computer for awhile I have decided to rearrange my 'schedule'.
After breakfast I am going to get some exercise in. Yep, the big 'E' word. My current schedule may - or may not - allow me 'want to exercise' time. By that I mean it is easier to put it off with other activities than doing it. When it gets late enough I can just say 'not today'. One thing I have decided is that if I get my exercise in first, then I can stay on the computer and be more focused because I did get something done. :-) That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Today it did - and didn't - work out so well. I did my quiet time. I was fasting so skipped breakfast. I sat with Tom while he ate breakfast this morning. When he finished, I decided to get on the treadmill. I completed that task then looked at my list of things to do or pick up at the store. Decided to go shopping and get these things out of the way. Was gone a couple hours, I guess. Came home and chatted with Tom some, cleaned off the counter, got things taken to my room for when his meeting starts tonight. I fixed myself something for dinner; hubby doesn't feel good so didn't want anything. Played with Marley. As I was looking at my kindle, she put her pull toy in my lap, wanting me to play. I didn't notice. She started chewing on the rope - and pinched the inside of my leg! She got my attention! It is a black knot about the size of a nickel! I know she didn't mean to do it - but she knew from my scream she was in trouble. You should have seen her trying to get under the end tables! It is actually funny for all she can get under is her head - so I guess if I don't see her, she's not there?
Marley was captured and put in her pen, Tom's guests have arrived and I have currently retired - with my laptop - to my room for a couple hours. I left Marley in her pen - didn't want to deal with her while I'm trying to type. She thinks she is still a lapdog. She is not.
So why am I telling you all this? It is my excuse for not typing my blog earlier in the day. I've usually tried to complete it in the morning, but I guess it really doesn't make any difference. On the days I intend to get my walking in I will probably get it done later in the day. I kind of hope to take Marley out tomorrow - it has been a week since she got her shots and we were told we could take her walking - but I haven't bought her harness yet. We may try it just with the collar, just to get her out and moving. We are hoping that by walking her she will use up some of that puppy energy.
I took Marley outside before the guys got here for the meeting (and before she bit my leg). A big gray cat was strolling across the yard - when she saw Marley she took off and sat on top of the low fence by the pool equipment. Marley didn't know what to make of her. I'm yelling at Marley to 'get her!!!' and she is looking at me 'how do I do that?'!! The cat was brave enough to hang her big fat tail down in Marley's face - and Marley just sniffed at it! Can you believe it? The cat turned and hissed at Marley then jumped on the high fence and into the alley.
Marley has been living too much of a protective life. She definitely needs to get out more. We do not have cats. Tom does not like cats. We have three that have adopted us. They hide under our front air conditioner, our front bushes, under the shade of the orange tree in back - and wherever else they want. We are hoping that Marley will let them know this is HER yard now. Yeah, right. If tonight was any sign, the cats will invite their neighbors for a 'cat-in'.
I'm kind of liking being back here all alone, but while I am, I do need to get some things done. I like scratching things off my 'to do' list.
How is your 'to do' list coming along?
Blessings!
Therefore, starting today, I told my hubby I was going to do something different. My quiet time always comes first, of course, but instead of fixing breakfast (well, I do sometimes cook) and going to my computer for awhile I have decided to rearrange my 'schedule'.
After breakfast I am going to get some exercise in. Yep, the big 'E' word. My current schedule may - or may not - allow me 'want to exercise' time. By that I mean it is easier to put it off with other activities than doing it. When it gets late enough I can just say 'not today'. One thing I have decided is that if I get my exercise in first, then I can stay on the computer and be more focused because I did get something done. :-) That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Today it did - and didn't - work out so well. I did my quiet time. I was fasting so skipped breakfast. I sat with Tom while he ate breakfast this morning. When he finished, I decided to get on the treadmill. I completed that task then looked at my list of things to do or pick up at the store. Decided to go shopping and get these things out of the way. Was gone a couple hours, I guess. Came home and chatted with Tom some, cleaned off the counter, got things taken to my room for when his meeting starts tonight. I fixed myself something for dinner; hubby doesn't feel good so didn't want anything. Played with Marley. As I was looking at my kindle, she put her pull toy in my lap, wanting me to play. I didn't notice. She started chewing on the rope - and pinched the inside of my leg! She got my attention! It is a black knot about the size of a nickel! I know she didn't mean to do it - but she knew from my scream she was in trouble. You should have seen her trying to get under the end tables! It is actually funny for all she can get under is her head - so I guess if I don't see her, she's not there?
Marley was captured and put in her pen, Tom's guests have arrived and I have currently retired - with my laptop - to my room for a couple hours. I left Marley in her pen - didn't want to deal with her while I'm trying to type. She thinks she is still a lapdog. She is not.
So why am I telling you all this? It is my excuse for not typing my blog earlier in the day. I've usually tried to complete it in the morning, but I guess it really doesn't make any difference. On the days I intend to get my walking in I will probably get it done later in the day. I kind of hope to take Marley out tomorrow - it has been a week since she got her shots and we were told we could take her walking - but I haven't bought her harness yet. We may try it just with the collar, just to get her out and moving. We are hoping that by walking her she will use up some of that puppy energy.
I took Marley outside before the guys got here for the meeting (and before she bit my leg). A big gray cat was strolling across the yard - when she saw Marley she took off and sat on top of the low fence by the pool equipment. Marley didn't know what to make of her. I'm yelling at Marley to 'get her!!!' and she is looking at me 'how do I do that?'!! The cat was brave enough to hang her big fat tail down in Marley's face - and Marley just sniffed at it! Can you believe it? The cat turned and hissed at Marley then jumped on the high fence and into the alley.
Marley has been living too much of a protective life. She definitely needs to get out more. We do not have cats. Tom does not like cats. We have three that have adopted us. They hide under our front air conditioner, our front bushes, under the shade of the orange tree in back - and wherever else they want. We are hoping that Marley will let them know this is HER yard now. Yeah, right. If tonight was any sign, the cats will invite their neighbors for a 'cat-in'.
I'm kind of liking being back here all alone, but while I am, I do need to get some things done. I like scratching things off my 'to do' list.
How is your 'to do' list coming along?
Blessings!
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Our 30th Wedding Anniversary
Whoever placed bets that our marriage wouldn't last this long - you lost! I'm glad I didn't place any bets, for to be honest with you, in the beginning things were so bad that I wasn't sure if it would last a year - let alone 30! True, it hasn't all been bad, but there have been really tough times. I won't deny that. Marriage is hard. My first marriage was easy compared to this one. Why the difference? Because by the time I started this second marriage I was already becoming my own person, knowing what I wanted and didn't want. I had children, which always brings an interesting mixture into a second marriage. We moved across country from Indiana to California to Arizona. I began to fight for my own existence in this second marriage. I wanted my husband to take care of me, but not own me. I began to feel like a possession, rather than a wife. I was limited in what I could do in a strange city. I didn't like it. So I fought back. Not physically, but internally. I struggled. Finally a transfer came through and we moved to Phoenix. Culture was more of what I was used to. I found a job I enjoyed. Life was better at times.
We celebrated our first anniversary in Phoenix, five days after we arrived. Yeah, we arrived in Phoenix on my birthday in 1983. We had a very nice dinner at the Hungry Hunter, if I recall correctly. It went out of business years ago. Great food. I think we are cooking at home tonight, which is fine with both of us.
That first year of marriage was hard on all of us. With the job changes, moving, living with someone who shared your home, it was hard. You know how it is, once the 'I Do's' are said, the realness of people comes out. You freak out with 'what have I done?' thoughts. You have to make a choice. That choice will affect you the rest of your life. We chose to stick together and tough it out. Even with that choice we have had tough times. Some days I would be so angry I didn't know if I could make it. I truly believe we have stuck it out because we both knew we needed God in our lives to help us to change and make it work. I can honestly say that if I had not run to God in prayer - some days more often than others - I would not be where I am now. I'm sure that Tom can say the same thing.
It isn't that there wasn't love for each other; at times we just didn't like (and sometimes still don't) each other's behavior. We stay(ed) together because we want to put God first, and He doesn't like divorce. I wanted to show my kids just because things get tough, you don't run from your commitment. My first marriage ended in divorce. I wanted my children to see a commitment to making marriage work. I hope it will apply in their own marriages, when the tough times come. Would life be different for each of us if we had not stuck it out? Sure, I guess so, but would we be happy? Who knows? Happiness is what you make it out to be.
Philippians 3:13-15 - "Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do; Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus. All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you."
Other than our commitment to God first, what has held us together? Commitment to each other. We choose to forget the hard things in the past and press on to the future and what it holds for us. Does it mean we have matured enough that life will be much simpler now? Absolutely not. It means we have proven we can make it 'in richer or poorer, in sickness or in health'. Tough times still come, and hard times may still be in our future, but we hold on to the One who holds us together.
This One is the third cord in our cords of marriage. We are strong because of that third cord, Jesus Christ. We're holding on, til death do us part.
What are you holding on to? Is your commitment still as strong as it was when you said 'I do'? Is your - or your spouse's - cord starting to unravel? Make sure you build on a firm foundation and keep your marriage cords strong. Jesus will help, by intertwining Himself as the third cord. He can help you through anything. I know from experience.
Hang on! The best is yet to come.
Blessings!
We celebrated our first anniversary in Phoenix, five days after we arrived. Yeah, we arrived in Phoenix on my birthday in 1983. We had a very nice dinner at the Hungry Hunter, if I recall correctly. It went out of business years ago. Great food. I think we are cooking at home tonight, which is fine with both of us.
That first year of marriage was hard on all of us. With the job changes, moving, living with someone who shared your home, it was hard. You know how it is, once the 'I Do's' are said, the realness of people comes out. You freak out with 'what have I done?' thoughts. You have to make a choice. That choice will affect you the rest of your life. We chose to stick together and tough it out. Even with that choice we have had tough times. Some days I would be so angry I didn't know if I could make it. I truly believe we have stuck it out because we both knew we needed God in our lives to help us to change and make it work. I can honestly say that if I had not run to God in prayer - some days more often than others - I would not be where I am now. I'm sure that Tom can say the same thing.
It isn't that there wasn't love for each other; at times we just didn't like (and sometimes still don't) each other's behavior. We stay(ed) together because we want to put God first, and He doesn't like divorce. I wanted to show my kids just because things get tough, you don't run from your commitment. My first marriage ended in divorce. I wanted my children to see a commitment to making marriage work. I hope it will apply in their own marriages, when the tough times come. Would life be different for each of us if we had not stuck it out? Sure, I guess so, but would we be happy? Who knows? Happiness is what you make it out to be.
Philippians 3:13-15 - "Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do; Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus. All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you."
Other than our commitment to God first, what has held us together? Commitment to each other. We choose to forget the hard things in the past and press on to the future and what it holds for us. Does it mean we have matured enough that life will be much simpler now? Absolutely not. It means we have proven we can make it 'in richer or poorer, in sickness or in health'. Tough times still come, and hard times may still be in our future, but we hold on to the One who holds us together.
This One is the third cord in our cords of marriage. We are strong because of that third cord, Jesus Christ. We're holding on, til death do us part.
What are you holding on to? Is your commitment still as strong as it was when you said 'I do'? Is your - or your spouse's - cord starting to unravel? Make sure you build on a firm foundation and keep your marriage cords strong. Jesus will help, by intertwining Himself as the third cord. He can help you through anything. I know from experience.
Hang on! The best is yet to come.
Blessings!
Monday, August 13, 2012
Trusting in the Tough Times
We have limited our traveling quite a bit since we adopted Marley. Because we don't like leaving her 'home alone' and in her crate, we have chosen to stay close to home and not to be gone for any great length of time.
Yesterday we decided to take a trip up to Prescott Valley for church. We waited until the latest moment to leave, making sure Marley had been outside and had water to drink before we put her in the crate. Off we went to church - and it took us about 1 1/2 hours to get there due to some very slow drivers. It was wonderful seeing dear friends and catching up on the church. We had attended there nearly five years and had been quite involved - or at least as much as we could while living in Phoenix. After the pastor and his wife taking us out for an 'anniversary dinner' we stopped by their place long enough to see 'Gracie', their chiweenie, and then we headed back home. We got back in good time and Marley was ready to run to the door as soon as we opened her crate, as she usually is, no matter how long we are gone. We have her trained that way.
It was really good to get away and visit with friends for awhile. We have been told next trip we are to bring Marley with us. We'll see! We are already talking about putting Marley in the car and doing some short trips pretty soon. Just want to get Marley used to traveling. Now that we can start walking her, we need to get a harness for her and start taking her out. Problem is, days like today at 115 degrees, we don't want to take her out! Can't wait for it to cool down. Want to look at getting her some 'mittens' for her feet to help shield the heat. If I can not walk on the 'kool deck' by the pool barefoot, I'm not going to make Marley!
One of the dear saints up in Prescott Valley touched my heart yesterday. She knows my love for the Lord and what I called to do. She shared with me yesterday that she prays for me every day, that God would bring me to where I could use my gifting. I felt humbled, yet honored, that she would see that in me (yes, she has heard me preach a few times) and feel that is God's gifting to me, and that she would pray for me daily. She commented she wished we would come to Cottonwood, where she lives, and start a church. That comment stirred my heart so I suggested to Tom we take a trip up to Cottonwood sometime and visit our friend and just look around. Don't know if that is what God would want us to do (start a church plant up there), but I have conceded that if we are to move in order for me to serve in ministry, I am willing to move.
Since I still need to find a job, I don't see moving in the near future, but I told God this morning that if moving was on His agenda for us, He would put everything in place, and I would trust Him for whatever comes our way. I am willing to pack up and move, relocate, and start over. But I am asking Him to confirm it to me before it happens! It isn't that we would be out of His will if we sold our house and moved, but we want to be in line with what His plan is, and not in our own plan.
Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."
I often wonder what the future holds for us. My dreams have been shattered often and I wonder how God will pick up the pieces and use them. I am reminded how a potter will begin to make a bowl, and if it falls apart, he begins to reshape it and mold it into something useful. I am trusting God to take my shattered and broken dreams and reshaping them and making them into something useful.
What about your shattered and broken dreams? Did you plan to go on to school and found life came into play and you couldn't? Did you want that dream job, only something came in the way and stole that dream? Did you want to give to others, to serve, only to find it was made impossible? What are you doing with your shattered and broken dreams?
I will tell you one thing - unless you are holding on to the One who can heal your broken heart, you will never heal. If I didn't have God to run to in my pain, to cry out to Him in my anguish when things don't go the way I feel they should go, I truly hate to think what I would be now. I know I would be broken, without life, defeated. I refuse to live like that so I run to Him who rescues me and breathes new life into me when life comes at me to pull me down. I am not defeated; Christ rescued me on the cross. He set me free from defeat.
1 John 2:12-14 - "I write to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, dear children, because you have known the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning.
I write to you, young men, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one."
We have overcome the evil one! Satan was defeated by Jesus Christ on the cross! And He did it all for me.... and for you.
We got brave yesterday and left Marley for about 7 hours alone. She waited patiently for us to return. Our God is waiting patiently for us to let go of the reins of this world and run to Him. I'm willing to let go and run! Are you?
Blessings!
Yesterday we decided to take a trip up to Prescott Valley for church. We waited until the latest moment to leave, making sure Marley had been outside and had water to drink before we put her in the crate. Off we went to church - and it took us about 1 1/2 hours to get there due to some very slow drivers. It was wonderful seeing dear friends and catching up on the church. We had attended there nearly five years and had been quite involved - or at least as much as we could while living in Phoenix. After the pastor and his wife taking us out for an 'anniversary dinner' we stopped by their place long enough to see 'Gracie', their chiweenie, and then we headed back home. We got back in good time and Marley was ready to run to the door as soon as we opened her crate, as she usually is, no matter how long we are gone. We have her trained that way.
It was really good to get away and visit with friends for awhile. We have been told next trip we are to bring Marley with us. We'll see! We are already talking about putting Marley in the car and doing some short trips pretty soon. Just want to get Marley used to traveling. Now that we can start walking her, we need to get a harness for her and start taking her out. Problem is, days like today at 115 degrees, we don't want to take her out! Can't wait for it to cool down. Want to look at getting her some 'mittens' for her feet to help shield the heat. If I can not walk on the 'kool deck' by the pool barefoot, I'm not going to make Marley!
One of the dear saints up in Prescott Valley touched my heart yesterday. She knows my love for the Lord and what I called to do. She shared with me yesterday that she prays for me every day, that God would bring me to where I could use my gifting. I felt humbled, yet honored, that she would see that in me (yes, she has heard me preach a few times) and feel that is God's gifting to me, and that she would pray for me daily. She commented she wished we would come to Cottonwood, where she lives, and start a church. That comment stirred my heart so I suggested to Tom we take a trip up to Cottonwood sometime and visit our friend and just look around. Don't know if that is what God would want us to do (start a church plant up there), but I have conceded that if we are to move in order for me to serve in ministry, I am willing to move.
Since I still need to find a job, I don't see moving in the near future, but I told God this morning that if moving was on His agenda for us, He would put everything in place, and I would trust Him for whatever comes our way. I am willing to pack up and move, relocate, and start over. But I am asking Him to confirm it to me before it happens! It isn't that we would be out of His will if we sold our house and moved, but we want to be in line with what His plan is, and not in our own plan.
Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."
I often wonder what the future holds for us. My dreams have been shattered often and I wonder how God will pick up the pieces and use them. I am reminded how a potter will begin to make a bowl, and if it falls apart, he begins to reshape it and mold it into something useful. I am trusting God to take my shattered and broken dreams and reshaping them and making them into something useful.
What about your shattered and broken dreams? Did you plan to go on to school and found life came into play and you couldn't? Did you want that dream job, only something came in the way and stole that dream? Did you want to give to others, to serve, only to find it was made impossible? What are you doing with your shattered and broken dreams?
I will tell you one thing - unless you are holding on to the One who can heal your broken heart, you will never heal. If I didn't have God to run to in my pain, to cry out to Him in my anguish when things don't go the way I feel they should go, I truly hate to think what I would be now. I know I would be broken, without life, defeated. I refuse to live like that so I run to Him who rescues me and breathes new life into me when life comes at me to pull me down. I am not defeated; Christ rescued me on the cross. He set me free from defeat.
1 John 2:12-14 - "I write to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, dear children, because you have known the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning.
I write to you, young men, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one."
We have overcome the evil one! Satan was defeated by Jesus Christ on the cross! And He did it all for me.... and for you.
We got brave yesterday and left Marley for about 7 hours alone. She waited patiently for us to return. Our God is waiting patiently for us to let go of the reins of this world and run to Him. I'm willing to let go and run! Are you?
Blessings!
Saturday, August 11, 2012
The Day After the day after.....
When I have things going on in the early morning, sometimes I find that it is difficult to get on the computer anytime during the day. Most days, anyway, and yesterday was one of them. I had my nails and toes done yesterday morning and then we went to lunch. It seemed after that I just never got a chance to get on the computer for one reason or another.
Today I also had some thing early - met a friend for breakfast then stopped and did some shopping. Kohls sent me a $10 card for my birthday so I had to spend it. Stopped at Winco to pick up snacks for the dog. I rarely buy snacks for us, but we make sure Marley has snacks! She is so spoiled!!
My birthday dinner was the absolute best. We had a great 'host' at Village Inn. Brandon took such good care of our big party. It was so nice to have everyone together. We were only missing four grandchildren. I got a phone call from three of them and a text from the other. The food was good and everyone got along well. It was a good evening.
I think that having everyone together made my birthday so special. I don't know that I could have asked for any thing more, other than the missing grandchildren. It was so good to listen to conversations, share pies, and catch up on everyone's lives. I don't know about the others, but I had the best time and it means the world to me.
I received some comments about us paying for the entire tab, but that is the way I wanted it. I didn't want to put a hardship on anyone. This was my birthday present to myself and I would do it again in a heartbeat. I was talking to my friend this morning at breakfast and she completely understood what I was saying. It is all about family.
They have even gone so far that for their 50th anniversary they reserved cabins for their entire crew (of which there are many) and paid for everything - just to have family nearby for a couple days. And now they make sure they meet for birthdays.
It must be an age thing. The older we get the more we want our families around us. It's nice to know that I am no different. I have always said my grandchildren keep me young. I love it when the girls want me near them as much as I love David, at six years old, giving me wonderful, loving hugs. I am so blessed to be their grandma.
I received a few homemade gifts which is really cool. One is a painting of a tea cup - from my granddaughter who knows my love for tea. Another is a small teapot and cup made by a grandson out of clay. And, another adopted granddaughter gave me Marley. Well, a dog made out of clay and painted black and actually does resemble Marley. I also received necklaces, an Army Mom sticker, birthday flip flops, a Grandmother sign, gift cards, and lots of love. The gifts are nice, but the greatest gift was being with them all. My little sister sent me Keen (brand) sandals. I guess they are pretty big back in Indiana. I had looked at them, but wouldn't buy. Now I have a pair! I also received some money and cards from friends and family.
It was a good birthday.
I hope that as you are anticipating your next birthday, whether yet this year, or next year, that you will think about what is important. Birthday gifts are nice, but what is more lasting. What is going to mean the most to you. And let your family members know it. Don't make them guess at what is important to you. Tell them.
I did. And I got the best birthday present ever. I hope you do as well.
Blessings!
Today I also had some thing early - met a friend for breakfast then stopped and did some shopping. Kohls sent me a $10 card for my birthday so I had to spend it. Stopped at Winco to pick up snacks for the dog. I rarely buy snacks for us, but we make sure Marley has snacks! She is so spoiled!!
My birthday dinner was the absolute best. We had a great 'host' at Village Inn. Brandon took such good care of our big party. It was so nice to have everyone together. We were only missing four grandchildren. I got a phone call from three of them and a text from the other. The food was good and everyone got along well. It was a good evening.
I think that having everyone together made my birthday so special. I don't know that I could have asked for any thing more, other than the missing grandchildren. It was so good to listen to conversations, share pies, and catch up on everyone's lives. I don't know about the others, but I had the best time and it means the world to me.
I received some comments about us paying for the entire tab, but that is the way I wanted it. I didn't want to put a hardship on anyone. This was my birthday present to myself and I would do it again in a heartbeat. I was talking to my friend this morning at breakfast and she completely understood what I was saying. It is all about family.
They have even gone so far that for their 50th anniversary they reserved cabins for their entire crew (of which there are many) and paid for everything - just to have family nearby for a couple days. And now they make sure they meet for birthdays.
It must be an age thing. The older we get the more we want our families around us. It's nice to know that I am no different. I have always said my grandchildren keep me young. I love it when the girls want me near them as much as I love David, at six years old, giving me wonderful, loving hugs. I am so blessed to be their grandma.
I received a few homemade gifts which is really cool. One is a painting of a tea cup - from my granddaughter who knows my love for tea. Another is a small teapot and cup made by a grandson out of clay. And, another adopted granddaughter gave me Marley. Well, a dog made out of clay and painted black and actually does resemble Marley. I also received necklaces, an Army Mom sticker, birthday flip flops, a Grandmother sign, gift cards, and lots of love. The gifts are nice, but the greatest gift was being with them all. My little sister sent me Keen (brand) sandals. I guess they are pretty big back in Indiana. I had looked at them, but wouldn't buy. Now I have a pair! I also received some money and cards from friends and family.
It was a good birthday.
I hope that as you are anticipating your next birthday, whether yet this year, or next year, that you will think about what is important. Birthday gifts are nice, but what is more lasting. What is going to mean the most to you. And let your family members know it. Don't make them guess at what is important to you. Tell them.
I did. And I got the best birthday present ever. I hope you do as well.
Blessings!
Thursday, August 9, 2012
It's My Birthday!
Again! Well, only once this year. I had to chuckle last night when I read my youngest son's post on facebook about it being the 34th anniversary of my 29th birthday. It made me think of my mama. She would always tell us that since she was only 29 that she couldn't have children older than 29. When we turned 30, we became "adopted". In fact, I don't know that I ever knew how old my mama really was until her 65th birthday and my little sister, bless her little pea-picking heart, put it in the Indianapolis Star paper that Mama was 65! I happened to come across the little article the other day - I'll have to try to find it again and type it out for the children to have. It was really cute the way Sissy shared mama was the 'ripe old age of 65' and she only had one child (Buddy) and the rest of us were adopted because we were all past 29.
I don't recall doing that - saying I was 29 (again) - which makes it interesting my boys are commenting on my anniversary of being 29. I've been joking lately that I'm only 45 because an older brother is claiming he is 55 (He turned 66 last month, I think) because he has taken care of his health and is really doing well. He really doesn't look his age. I figure if he can drop ten years I should be able to drop 18 years. I don't look 63. At least I don't think so!
I don't mind getting older - other than the fact my time with family is passing quickly by. So many more memories I want to make before I'm called 'home'. I want my children and grandchildren to know how much they are loved and how much I love being with them. I try to show them now, but sometimes things aren't always going my way. I love spending time with each and every one. When I do finally go 'home', I want to leave with no regrets from myself or from others.
We aren't promised tomorrow. We only have this moment. Do those closest to you know how much you love and treasure them? Do your friends know you care?
James 4:13-17 -- " Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” 16 As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. 17 Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins."
I know, I'm getting scentimental, aren't I! This is a fun day so I'll stop with what I've already written.
Going to dinner tonight with Tom, the children and grandchildren and am so looking forward to it. I am so blessed.
Our 30th anniverary is next Tuesday - I called today to get a nail appointment - and when we got home Tom handed me a certificate to get a manicure and a pedicure for our anniverary. I had to call the nail place back to see if they could do both. She was laughing for she knew he had bought the certificate and couldn't say anything. Yea!! I get both done in the morning!!
It has been a good day thus far, and it is going to be perfect at the end of day. Thank you, God, for giving me this day to spend with my loved ones. I pray we make lots of fun and special memories tonight.
Hope you have a great evening too!!
Blessings!
I don't recall doing that - saying I was 29 (again) - which makes it interesting my boys are commenting on my anniversary of being 29. I've been joking lately that I'm only 45 because an older brother is claiming he is 55 (He turned 66 last month, I think) because he has taken care of his health and is really doing well. He really doesn't look his age. I figure if he can drop ten years I should be able to drop 18 years. I don't look 63. At least I don't think so!
I don't mind getting older - other than the fact my time with family is passing quickly by. So many more memories I want to make before I'm called 'home'. I want my children and grandchildren to know how much they are loved and how much I love being with them. I try to show them now, but sometimes things aren't always going my way. I love spending time with each and every one. When I do finally go 'home', I want to leave with no regrets from myself or from others.
We aren't promised tomorrow. We only have this moment. Do those closest to you know how much you love and treasure them? Do your friends know you care?
James 4:13-17 -- " Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” 16 As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. 17 Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins."
I know, I'm getting scentimental, aren't I! This is a fun day so I'll stop with what I've already written.
Going to dinner tonight with Tom, the children and grandchildren and am so looking forward to it. I am so blessed.
Our 30th anniverary is next Tuesday - I called today to get a nail appointment - and when we got home Tom handed me a certificate to get a manicure and a pedicure for our anniverary. I had to call the nail place back to see if they could do both. She was laughing for she knew he had bought the certificate and couldn't say anything. Yea!! I get both done in the morning!!
It has been a good day thus far, and it is going to be perfect at the end of day. Thank you, God, for giving me this day to spend with my loved ones. I pray we make lots of fun and special memories tonight.
Hope you have a great evening too!!
Blessings!
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Big Day for Marley....and for me
Today was a big day for Marley. It is also a big day for me. We took Marley to the vet this morning for her final shots. She was big enough they finally gave her the rabies shot. Now that she has had all her shots, in about a week, I can start walking her around the block. Well, I understood them to say I could take her out even yet tonight around the block, but Tom didn't hear what I heard. So will see how that goes. But I'm excited that she can be taken out now!
Marley is now about 4 and a half months. She weighed in at 36 pounds and wanting to get out and run! Getting to be a real big girl! She sure showed the vet she didn't want them touching her - she actually snapped at the vet today - something she has never done before. I really think it is because the assistant wasn't as friendly as who she has had in previous visits, therefore she wasn't quite as relaxed. So, they put a muzzle on her. Wrong. She worked her way out of that one real quick. But she got all her shots and is now on the yearly visit. Well, for a few months until her weight levels out we need to take her back and have her weighed and pick up her heart worm pill. Once she stablizes we can get a 'six pack' for her. Then it will be every six months.
I am sure Marley was glad to get home! Silly dog. She thinks she is a lap dog. I sat in the back of the van with her and on the way back, she was in my lap. All 36 pounds of her! My big baby. She loves me. That's all that counts. She is still kind of groggy - which is good - they had to give her benadryl in case of allergies to the shots. The first shot made her sick so since they she gets the benadryl to calm her down. It works.
I am really excited to get to this point where we can walk Marley. I'm looking forward to some outside walking. The treadmill is so boring, although I usually put on a video and watch it while I'm walking and sweating. It's still boring. But it is also really hot out - I think it was to be 113 today. It will have to be early morning walking I'm thinking!
Thinking back over the past few days - what have you been excited about? What should you have been excited about and didn't allow yourself to be? I have a couple sons, one especially, who has a very dry sense of humor.... not much fazes him. Don't see him excited too often. Although, the picture of him getting a pair of golf sandals for Christmas one year really surprised him. I like doing things that catches the children - or grandchildren - off guard. My other son hasn't enjoyed life as much as he could lately. Needs to focus on living life more, not weighing it down. Yeah, you know who I'm talking about!
I'm excited I get to spend some time with my children and some of the grandchildren for dinner tomorrow night to celebrate my birthday. That is the best present I could ever want - well, except for the 4 grandchildren that won't be able to attend - it would be perfect if they all were there. There isn't much that I need in the way of gifts. I just enjoy the love of my grandchildren. That is priceless.
I did pretty good yesterday. I went shopping at the mall and two of my granddaughters joined me. I got to wave to a grandson, and saw three others last night. Saw one son when I dropped off the girls at home and the other son last night. My poor daughter just works too hard and is never home when I stop by. Oh wait. Maybe that is intentional! Will have to think on that one!! Will have to see when she reads this blog if she responds to that comment. She actually posted on one I did a few weeks ago - posted recently that is. She had to admit she hadn't read my blog in a long time. Just think, I could say things and she wouldn't hear about it for several weeks. LOL
I don't have anything to talk about today - other than Marley. She's asleep under the table now so I need to take advantage of the quiet and submit some resumes. Maybe I will have more to share tomorrow. Ohhh..... just remembered, I have an early meeting - we need to be there by 8:15am and won't be back until afternoon. I may not get to post tomorrow! Will have to wait and see!
Hope that you have a great day - and allow yourself to get excited about something! You will find you enjoy it so much more when you do! Don't be such a stiff neck - life is too short to be unhappy. You don't know when a day is your last day on earth - make it count as a good one for those who love you.
Blessings!
Marley is now about 4 and a half months. She weighed in at 36 pounds and wanting to get out and run! Getting to be a real big girl! She sure showed the vet she didn't want them touching her - she actually snapped at the vet today - something she has never done before. I really think it is because the assistant wasn't as friendly as who she has had in previous visits, therefore she wasn't quite as relaxed. So, they put a muzzle on her. Wrong. She worked her way out of that one real quick. But she got all her shots and is now on the yearly visit. Well, for a few months until her weight levels out we need to take her back and have her weighed and pick up her heart worm pill. Once she stablizes we can get a 'six pack' for her. Then it will be every six months.
I am sure Marley was glad to get home! Silly dog. She thinks she is a lap dog. I sat in the back of the van with her and on the way back, she was in my lap. All 36 pounds of her! My big baby. She loves me. That's all that counts. She is still kind of groggy - which is good - they had to give her benadryl in case of allergies to the shots. The first shot made her sick so since they she gets the benadryl to calm her down. It works.
I am really excited to get to this point where we can walk Marley. I'm looking forward to some outside walking. The treadmill is so boring, although I usually put on a video and watch it while I'm walking and sweating. It's still boring. But it is also really hot out - I think it was to be 113 today. It will have to be early morning walking I'm thinking!
Thinking back over the past few days - what have you been excited about? What should you have been excited about and didn't allow yourself to be? I have a couple sons, one especially, who has a very dry sense of humor.... not much fazes him. Don't see him excited too often. Although, the picture of him getting a pair of golf sandals for Christmas one year really surprised him. I like doing things that catches the children - or grandchildren - off guard. My other son hasn't enjoyed life as much as he could lately. Needs to focus on living life more, not weighing it down. Yeah, you know who I'm talking about!
I'm excited I get to spend some time with my children and some of the grandchildren for dinner tomorrow night to celebrate my birthday. That is the best present I could ever want - well, except for the 4 grandchildren that won't be able to attend - it would be perfect if they all were there. There isn't much that I need in the way of gifts. I just enjoy the love of my grandchildren. That is priceless.
I did pretty good yesterday. I went shopping at the mall and two of my granddaughters joined me. I got to wave to a grandson, and saw three others last night. Saw one son when I dropped off the girls at home and the other son last night. My poor daughter just works too hard and is never home when I stop by. Oh wait. Maybe that is intentional! Will have to think on that one!! Will have to see when she reads this blog if she responds to that comment. She actually posted on one I did a few weeks ago - posted recently that is. She had to admit she hadn't read my blog in a long time. Just think, I could say things and she wouldn't hear about it for several weeks. LOL
I don't have anything to talk about today - other than Marley. She's asleep under the table now so I need to take advantage of the quiet and submit some resumes. Maybe I will have more to share tomorrow. Ohhh..... just remembered, I have an early meeting - we need to be there by 8:15am and won't be back until afternoon. I may not get to post tomorrow! Will have to wait and see!
Hope that you have a great day - and allow yourself to get excited about something! You will find you enjoy it so much more when you do! Don't be such a stiff neck - life is too short to be unhappy. You don't know when a day is your last day on earth - make it count as a good one for those who love you.
Blessings!
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