As I left a little earlier this morning to head to work, it was raining. Not a hard rain, mind you, but a soft gentle rain. Reminds me of the story of Honi, that is in the book Circle Maker by Mark Batterson.
Honi is a legend from the first century BC. A devastating drought threatened to destroy a generation - the generation before Jesus. The last of the Jewish prophets had died off nearly four centuries before. Miracles were such a distant memory that they seemed like a false memory. And God was nowhere to be heard. But there was one man, an eccentric sage who lived outside the walls of Jerusalem, who dared to pray anyway. His name was Honi. And even if the people could no longer hear God, he believed that God could still hear them.
When rain is plentiful, it's an afterthought. During a drought, it's the only thought. And Honi was their only hope. Famous for his ability to pray for rain, it was on this day, the day, that Honi would earn his moniker.
With a six-foot staff in his hand, Honi began to turn like a math compass. His circular movement was rhythmical and methodical. Ninety degrees. One hundred eighty degrees. Two hundred seventy degrees. Three hundred sixty degrees. He never looked up as the crowd looked on. After what seemed like hours but had only been seconds, Honi stood inside the circle he had drawn. Then he dropped to his knees and raised his hands to heaven. With the authority of the prophet Elijah, who called down fire from heaven, Honi called down rain:
"Lord of the universe, I swear before Your great name that I will not move from this circle until You have shown mercy upon Your children."
The words sent a shudder down the spines of all who were within earshot that day. It wasn't just the volume of his voice; it was the authority of his tone. Not a hint of doubt. This prayer didn't originate in the vocal chords. Like water from an artesian well, the words flowed from the depth of his soul. His prayer was resolute yet humble, confident yet meek, expectant yet unassuming. Then it happened.
As his prayer ascended to the heavens, raindrops descended to the earth. An audible gasp swept across the thousands of congregants who had encircled Honi. Every head turned heavenward as the first raindrops parachuted from the sky, but Honi's head remained bowed. The people rejoiced over each drop, but Honi wasn't satisfied with a sprinkle. Still kneeling within the circle, Honi lifted his voice over the sounds of celebration:
"Not for such rain have I prayed, but for rain that will fill cisterns, pits, and caverns."
The sprinkle turned into such a torrential downpour that eyewitnesses said no raindrop was smaller than an egg in size. It rained so heavily and so steadily that the people fled to the Temple Mount to escape the flash floods. Honi stayed and prayed inside his protracted circle. Once more he refined his bold request:
"Not for such rain have I prayed, but for rain of Your favor, blessing, and graciousness."
Then, like a well-proportioned sun shower on a hot and humid August afternoon, it began to rain calmly, peacefully. Each raindrop was a tangible token of God's grace. And they didn't just soak the skin; they soaked the spirit with faith. It has been difficult to believe the day before the day. The day after the day, it was impossible not to believe.
Eventually, the dirt turned into mud and back into dirt again. After quenching their thirst, the crowd dispersed. And the rainmaker returned to his humble hovel on the outskirts of Jerusalem. Life returned to normal, but the legend of the circle maker had been born.
I love to read about Honi. About his boldness in prayer before God. I want to be like Honi, full of faith, that what I pray, I can pray expectantly, knowing that God will answer.
And the prayers that I have prayed, I do expect God to answer. But He has shown me over the years that He answers in His timeframe, not my own. The glory of answered prayer is to be His alone.
I can accept that.
When was the last time you prayed, expecting God to answer? When was the last time you bowed your head to God and waited upon Him? Maybe now is the time to take time. Just saying.
A soft gentle rain is falling. Not for such rain have I prayed, but for rain of Your favor, blessing, and graciousness. Come, Lord Jesus, come.
Blessings!
Friday, January 30, 2015
Thursday, January 29, 2015
What is it that makes the mind go blank....
Yep - I wrote part of something this morning... and decided to 'draft' it. Then I noticed a couple other 'drafts' in the folder. Things I started to share, and then decided not to. Got interrupted in my thought process, etc. I don't know. Just didn't finish.
So much 'stuff' going on around me. Things are happening here at work - a couple people will be let go as of tomorrow, I think it is. Corporate is taking over part of a department and it is in St. Louis - therefore, we don't need those people here. There is nothing for them to do. I feel bad for them, but they will get a nice severance package. I know there is a meeting with the staff this afternoon - I can only assume they will be told. That was where I was hired in to work.
Yeah. If I was still in that position, I probably would have been one of those let go with a severance package. God has been good to me in that he opened up this position and moved me into it. I love my boss, I enjoy my job. God took care of me. I'm grateful to Him.
God always provides for us when we need it. Sometimes we don't understand His delay, but it is in those times He works in us. We may end up doing some things we don't really enjoy, but through it He is growing us. But only if we let Him. He only wants our good.
Sometimes we try to jump ahead of God because we think we know best. Then we fall flat on our faces and are humbled by our rash decisions, our quick tempers, our choices. Makes me think of certain situations, but this morning I especially think of one of our employees who in a fit of emotional anger at a co-worker gave her two-week notice... and left. If she had waited 3 weeks she would have gotten a nice severance package as she is one who would probably have been let go. Instead, she left with nothing. She will really be angry when she gets wind of a severance package that is no longer hers to have.
Someone I know is looking for a job and is willing to take anything - which is a good thing. I was quickly reaching that point when I was looking for a job. I'm praying for this person as she has an interview this morning. I am praying that God will not only give her this job, that He will cause other things to fall into place. It's hard starting over in a new job - but when God is in it - everything is perfect.
But other than these and other things that are on my mind this morning, my mind is blank. I thought I'd start off with a nice scripture and elaborate on it. But, it didn't happen. When my boss came in I was able to take some time with her and discuss what is going on. She was able to talk with me about some of her own issues and things going on that she just needed someone to listen. And I can listen and keep silent, she knows that I won't go tell anyone things she told me. What is said between us - stays between us. Always has, always will. That's why we are such good friends. We trust each other.
And now I need to get to work - still working on binders for our big meeting next week. I have most of them done, but got more documents emailed to me late yesterday afternoon so need to print those and get them inserted. It will be wonderful to have these binders completed way before the meeting. Calming.
Hope that you have a great day - maybe tomorrow I can come up with something entertaining to share. :-)
Blessings!
So much 'stuff' going on around me. Things are happening here at work - a couple people will be let go as of tomorrow, I think it is. Corporate is taking over part of a department and it is in St. Louis - therefore, we don't need those people here. There is nothing for them to do. I feel bad for them, but they will get a nice severance package. I know there is a meeting with the staff this afternoon - I can only assume they will be told. That was where I was hired in to work.
Yeah. If I was still in that position, I probably would have been one of those let go with a severance package. God has been good to me in that he opened up this position and moved me into it. I love my boss, I enjoy my job. God took care of me. I'm grateful to Him.
God always provides for us when we need it. Sometimes we don't understand His delay, but it is in those times He works in us. We may end up doing some things we don't really enjoy, but through it He is growing us. But only if we let Him. He only wants our good.
Sometimes we try to jump ahead of God because we think we know best. Then we fall flat on our faces and are humbled by our rash decisions, our quick tempers, our choices. Makes me think of certain situations, but this morning I especially think of one of our employees who in a fit of emotional anger at a co-worker gave her two-week notice... and left. If she had waited 3 weeks she would have gotten a nice severance package as she is one who would probably have been let go. Instead, she left with nothing. She will really be angry when she gets wind of a severance package that is no longer hers to have.
Someone I know is looking for a job and is willing to take anything - which is a good thing. I was quickly reaching that point when I was looking for a job. I'm praying for this person as she has an interview this morning. I am praying that God will not only give her this job, that He will cause other things to fall into place. It's hard starting over in a new job - but when God is in it - everything is perfect.
But other than these and other things that are on my mind this morning, my mind is blank. I thought I'd start off with a nice scripture and elaborate on it. But, it didn't happen. When my boss came in I was able to take some time with her and discuss what is going on. She was able to talk with me about some of her own issues and things going on that she just needed someone to listen. And I can listen and keep silent, she knows that I won't go tell anyone things she told me. What is said between us - stays between us. Always has, always will. That's why we are such good friends. We trust each other.
And now I need to get to work - still working on binders for our big meeting next week. I have most of them done, but got more documents emailed to me late yesterday afternoon so need to print those and get them inserted. It will be wonderful to have these binders completed way before the meeting. Calming.
Hope that you have a great day - maybe tomorrow I can come up with something entertaining to share. :-)
Blessings!
Monday, January 26, 2015
The fast is past.... and other rambling thoughts....
and things have quickly started going back to "normal" - whatever that means. Yesterday was the chili cookoff at church - so we had chili for lunch. Dinner was going to be chili again (leftovers) but hubby offered to spring for a pizza - so I let him. After not eating bread for 3 weeks, it sure tasted good. I love the crust on the pizza - just enough flavor....mmmmm But I don't want to blow off eating good, either.
I am glad I did the fast. It was a challenge at times not to give in and have meat, have bread, have chocolate, and have desserts. You have no idea how many meals we have here at the office that I got to either eat a salad - or I bypassed altogether. Cookies, pasta, sandwiches. and I guarantee you, they were probably all good. But I was ok with not having them. In fact, I probably could continue on with the fast - with some modifications (occasional chocolate and desserts) to where I could eat it if I wanted it. But, my life is not my own and I can't always do what I want.
A friend is going on a 5 day eat clean challenge starting today and asked me to join her. I originally said yes, but I don't think I will. For one, it is hard to do it on my own and it is difficult enough to fix meals for just me when I'm doing it alone. And that's ok. I can still eat right and just eat less of what I shouldn't. I was surprised I lost 5 pounds on the fast. Shows how much junk I was eating, I guess.
But of course with being off the fast - where I gave up chocolate - now I can eat that leftover chocolate from Christmas that I couldn't eat before. :-)
Today is Monday and I'm back at work. Left a little earlier this morning as I needed to stop and get gas. I still was at work by about 6:20AM. I like coming in a little earlier than everyone else. It gives me time to just be quiet if I want to. Time to catch up on some work. Time to write here, if I choose. Our weekend was quiet and lazy. I definitely need to get moving more. I am needing to find a friend who would be willing to walk with me when I get home from work. Hubby doesn't like to walk and I feel guilty for not taking the dog - but when I do, he has to walk behind me as the dog and I take up the sidewalk. Catch 22 situation I guess. I just need to do it.
I need motivation.
and right now I need to be motivated to get to work. It's about time to "start" work and my boss will be walking in at most any time now. Planning on this week to be a good week - have no meetings and thus far, only need to work on 20 binders for a big meeting next week.
Have a great day - have chocolate!
Blessings!
I am glad I did the fast. It was a challenge at times not to give in and have meat, have bread, have chocolate, and have desserts. You have no idea how many meals we have here at the office that I got to either eat a salad - or I bypassed altogether. Cookies, pasta, sandwiches. and I guarantee you, they were probably all good. But I was ok with not having them. In fact, I probably could continue on with the fast - with some modifications (occasional chocolate and desserts) to where I could eat it if I wanted it. But, my life is not my own and I can't always do what I want.
A friend is going on a 5 day eat clean challenge starting today and asked me to join her. I originally said yes, but I don't think I will. For one, it is hard to do it on my own and it is difficult enough to fix meals for just me when I'm doing it alone. And that's ok. I can still eat right and just eat less of what I shouldn't. I was surprised I lost 5 pounds on the fast. Shows how much junk I was eating, I guess.
But of course with being off the fast - where I gave up chocolate - now I can eat that leftover chocolate from Christmas that I couldn't eat before. :-)
Today is Monday and I'm back at work. Left a little earlier this morning as I needed to stop and get gas. I still was at work by about 6:20AM. I like coming in a little earlier than everyone else. It gives me time to just be quiet if I want to. Time to catch up on some work. Time to write here, if I choose. Our weekend was quiet and lazy. I definitely need to get moving more. I am needing to find a friend who would be willing to walk with me when I get home from work. Hubby doesn't like to walk and I feel guilty for not taking the dog - but when I do, he has to walk behind me as the dog and I take up the sidewalk. Catch 22 situation I guess. I just need to do it.
I need motivation.
and right now I need to be motivated to get to work. It's about time to "start" work and my boss will be walking in at most any time now. Planning on this week to be a good week - have no meetings and thus far, only need to work on 20 binders for a big meeting next week.
Have a great day - have chocolate!
Blessings!
Friday, January 23, 2015
Time is passing by.....
i received a phone call this morning from my husband. That in of itself is not newsworthy. But he called to tell me some news. He called to let me know he had placed a call to our eye doctor this morning for an appointment - only to find out from the office he had died on December 13. We both are broken-hearted over this news. Besides the fact that neither of us knew of it before. We don't take the newspaper now - and I rarely checked the obits when we did take it. Dr. Gary told me in May when I was there that he had been diagnosed with throat cancer. He had had the surgery, the chemo, and thought he was doing much better. I guess he went for a check up in the fall and found it had spread throughout his body. He was only 62. I can hardly keep the tears from falling as I think of the 30 years we have gone to this man. My fondest memory of him is that he wore the best smelling cologne and I loved smelling it when I went for my yearly eye appointment. Dr. Gary was funny, smart, and very friendly. We had come to know him well over the 30 years we had gone to him. 30 years. It seems so long, and yet, it is already gone. We will miss him. I don't want to go back to that office, although there is someone there quite capable of seeing us. They don't take my vision insurance - but I went to Dr. Gary anyway and paid for it - so I can easily change. I'm just really sad - for his family - and for us.
It also makes me think again of my own life span. I will be 66 this year and the years ahead of me are fewer than those behind me. Will I have made a difference with others as Dr. Gary made with me? Have I lived my life with purpose - and have I made a difference.
Death does make one stop and think of these things.
Of one thing I have hope of - is that when my time comes, that I have made things right with everyone. That I don't die knowing I have not forgiven someone, or that I have not been forgiven. That I have made amends. Life is too short to hold grudges. Thinking of death makes one re-evaluate the importance of things. Some days I have actually prayed to die because I know where I am going - but also because the pain of what others do - or don't do - is too great. Eggshells break so easily and I'm tired of walking on them.
I think of my sweet Aunt Mae who will be 102 in March. She has lived life to the fullest. She has made a difference and is ready to go 'home'. I will miss her terribly, but at her age of 102, death is expected to happen. It's hard to think of someone younger than I am to be gone already.
Dr. Gary - thank you for being our eye doctor, for taking care of us for these past 30 years. Thank you for being a friend, and not just a doctor. I will miss you.
Shalom, my friend.
Make a difference with someone today. I plan to.
Blessings!
It also makes me think again of my own life span. I will be 66 this year and the years ahead of me are fewer than those behind me. Will I have made a difference with others as Dr. Gary made with me? Have I lived my life with purpose - and have I made a difference.
Death does make one stop and think of these things.
Of one thing I have hope of - is that when my time comes, that I have made things right with everyone. That I don't die knowing I have not forgiven someone, or that I have not been forgiven. That I have made amends. Life is too short to hold grudges. Thinking of death makes one re-evaluate the importance of things. Some days I have actually prayed to die because I know where I am going - but also because the pain of what others do - or don't do - is too great. Eggshells break so easily and I'm tired of walking on them.
I think of my sweet Aunt Mae who will be 102 in March. She has lived life to the fullest. She has made a difference and is ready to go 'home'. I will miss her terribly, but at her age of 102, death is expected to happen. It's hard to think of someone younger than I am to be gone already.
Dr. Gary - thank you for being our eye doctor, for taking care of us for these past 30 years. Thank you for being a friend, and not just a doctor. I will miss you.
Shalom, my friend.
Make a difference with someone today. I plan to.
Blessings!
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Something weighing on my heart......
I feel weighted down this morning as I have something heavy on my mind and heart. I'm so weary of some things going on and since I am not involved, it makes it more difficult. I've reached the point that I may just say something (more) - but still praying about what and how. It has just crushed me beyond measure, for sure.
Yesterday was a semi-productive day at work and all went well, but I found when I got home last night that I all of a sudden just felt so weary. Yeah, that was the word I came up with. Not 'tired' so much but weary. I was chatting with my little sister and at 7PM I was already in my jammies, sitting on the couch. I just felt so weary.
I wonder what is going on. Other than what is bothering me in the first paragraph, I don't specifically know of anything. Finances are always a problem - because I've made it a problem. But, am working on that issue and things will be ok.
I was praying for my children this morning and God has impressed upon me specific things I need to pray about. Most of all, praying that their eyes will be opened and they will see Him as Lord, and not the world. When we put things and issues and people before God, they have become our idols. God says that there shall NOT be any thing (or any one) before Him. We are to love the Lord our God with all of our heart, all of our soul, all of our mind, and all of our strength. There is no other option. God is to be first in our lives - not second. And definitely not last.
Some times it doesn't matter who is right or wrong in issues. It is how you respond; or not respond. If you let the issue remain, you have put that issue before God - and trust me, God will remove your blessings if you do not keep Him first. Think about that....... when I have difficulties and I don't know why... I always review my life to see if I am in line with Him, or with the world. I don't have to be right. But I do have to reconcile and agree to disagree if need be. I need to make amends no matter what it costs me. I have no pride when it comes to making amends. I have no rights. If I am faithful with God, then I need to make myself right with others. God first. Others second. Myself last.
Where do you stand in your world? Do you need to make a phone call, or write that letter, and just say "I'm sorry for everything. Please forgive me."? And then listen to what they have to say. Don't respond. Listen. and repeat, "I'm sorry for everything. Please forgive me." Just doing that will remove the heaviness and the burden from you, and your family. You taking the first step will free not only you, but those closest to you. And it will no longer separate you from God and His blessings.
My heart is sad for those who turn from God because of pride or because they think they are right or want to live their way. There is no other way than walking with God. Walking with God doesn't mean life will be wonderful. But it does mean that He will walk with you through the tough times.
For me, I want God on MY side. And to have Him on my side, I want to be on HIS side. Where do you stand with God? It's more than just going to church. It's more than prayer at the meals. It's relationship. What is your relationship with God? If it is right, then your relationship with others is right. Think about it.
Blessings!
Yesterday was a semi-productive day at work and all went well, but I found when I got home last night that I all of a sudden just felt so weary. Yeah, that was the word I came up with. Not 'tired' so much but weary. I was chatting with my little sister and at 7PM I was already in my jammies, sitting on the couch. I just felt so weary.
I wonder what is going on. Other than what is bothering me in the first paragraph, I don't specifically know of anything. Finances are always a problem - because I've made it a problem. But, am working on that issue and things will be ok.
I was praying for my children this morning and God has impressed upon me specific things I need to pray about. Most of all, praying that their eyes will be opened and they will see Him as Lord, and not the world. When we put things and issues and people before God, they have become our idols. God says that there shall NOT be any thing (or any one) before Him. We are to love the Lord our God with all of our heart, all of our soul, all of our mind, and all of our strength. There is no other option. God is to be first in our lives - not second. And definitely not last.
Some times it doesn't matter who is right or wrong in issues. It is how you respond; or not respond. If you let the issue remain, you have put that issue before God - and trust me, God will remove your blessings if you do not keep Him first. Think about that....... when I have difficulties and I don't know why... I always review my life to see if I am in line with Him, or with the world. I don't have to be right. But I do have to reconcile and agree to disagree if need be. I need to make amends no matter what it costs me. I have no pride when it comes to making amends. I have no rights. If I am faithful with God, then I need to make myself right with others. God first. Others second. Myself last.
Where do you stand in your world? Do you need to make a phone call, or write that letter, and just say "I'm sorry for everything. Please forgive me."? And then listen to what they have to say. Don't respond. Listen. and repeat, "I'm sorry for everything. Please forgive me." Just doing that will remove the heaviness and the burden from you, and your family. You taking the first step will free not only you, but those closest to you. And it will no longer separate you from God and His blessings.
My heart is sad for those who turn from God because of pride or because they think they are right or want to live their way. There is no other way than walking with God. Walking with God doesn't mean life will be wonderful. But it does mean that He will walk with you through the tough times.
For me, I want God on MY side. And to have Him on my side, I want to be on HIS side. Where do you stand with God? It's more than just going to church. It's more than prayer at the meals. It's relationship. What is your relationship with God? If it is right, then your relationship with others is right. Think about it.
Blessings!
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Moving right along.....
I can't believe I haven't been able to get online - or just haven't gotten online - and added to the blog. I've thought about it, but things at work have been keeping me very busy, and I haven't even gotten on the computer at home. The virus keeps popping up and I haven't gotten it deleted totally yet. Maybe I can get on it tonight and see what I can do. But then, I'm on the computer all day so by the time I get home - no hurry to get on the computer.
Was a little late getting started for work this morning. Actually, I started to leave on time, but as I pulled out of the driveway I heard a knocking/flapping noise from the right rear of the van. I drove about a block away and it kept getting louder so I turned around and went back home. Called hubby to come out and take a look at it - he drove it a few blocks and the noise stopped. Maybe something was on the tire and after driving a little ways it fell off. I don't know - but the noise didn't return on my way to work - for which I'm grateful for then I would have been nervous driving in. But with turning around and checking it out I was running about 15 minutes late. No biggie. That's why I leave early - so that I have plenty of time to get to work. I've already gotten my reports out this morning and am just getting settled in for the day.
Today is my daughter's 46th birthday. When did she get that old? I'm not much older than that. :-) I sent her birthday wishes earlier this morning and hope that she has a great day. As we get older most people don't tend to care much about our birthdays - but I have stuck to the belief that everyone's day of birth needs to be celebrated - even if all I do is acknowledge it. I mean, I like to feel valued on my birthday. It isn't about gifts - it is just about being remembered that I count. That I am valued. And I feel that other people, deep down, feel the same way. Yes, my sons will blow off the day, my daughter says she doesn't have birthdays anymore.... but too bad. Mom will always remember their special day. so there!
I've become team captain of the American Heart Association 'Heart Walk' that is scheduled on March 21. I keep asking myself 'What were you thinking!' for putting myself in this position - but sometimes we just need to step out of our comfort zone and be the leader we were created to be. I've already got about twenty people on my team - if all will follow through as they say they will. Our CEO wants the company to raise $12,500 and I need to help come up with ideas on how to raise it. Of course my first thought is 'Bake Sale'! LOL It's always about food. Then there is the silent auction for 'white elephant' items we all have in our homes. I'll have to think about what else we can do to raise money.
We ran away last weekend to Prescott Valley for a couple days. It was good to get out of town and spend some time with friends. We haven't done that in awhile.
As I think about what I just wrote I wonder if people think like that about spending time with God. Would someone write - or say - "I ran away last weekend to spend some time with God. It was good to spend time with Him because I hadn't done it in awhile"..... I guess I don't think that way because I try to spend time with Him every morning. No, I'm not bragging. Some mornings it is very difficult to get up earlier than I need to in order to have that time. And, sometimes I have fallen back to sleep for a little while. But it is time I treasure and time I find most valuable. It has been the way I've started my day for over 25 years and I don't know if I could just get up and NOT spend at least a few minutes with God in the morning. Sure, when we are with others it can be difficult, but I think I have managed to spend a few minutes at least to pray if I can't read my Bible as well. For me, it is time much needed to start my day. Once I do that, I feel I can handle whatever comes at me during the day and know that I can get throught it.
What about you? When was the last time you spent some time with God? Even on your way to work you can utter a prayer to Him to help you stay on track and get your work done timely and well. Pray for your family, your spouse and children. Pray for friends that need Him. Pray for yourself, that you will receive strength to get through personal issues. God is always with us and waiting to hear from us. Take some time and allow yourself to speak to God....and listen.... you just might hear His whisper back.
Blessings!
Was a little late getting started for work this morning. Actually, I started to leave on time, but as I pulled out of the driveway I heard a knocking/flapping noise from the right rear of the van. I drove about a block away and it kept getting louder so I turned around and went back home. Called hubby to come out and take a look at it - he drove it a few blocks and the noise stopped. Maybe something was on the tire and after driving a little ways it fell off. I don't know - but the noise didn't return on my way to work - for which I'm grateful for then I would have been nervous driving in. But with turning around and checking it out I was running about 15 minutes late. No biggie. That's why I leave early - so that I have plenty of time to get to work. I've already gotten my reports out this morning and am just getting settled in for the day.
Today is my daughter's 46th birthday. When did she get that old? I'm not much older than that. :-) I sent her birthday wishes earlier this morning and hope that she has a great day. As we get older most people don't tend to care much about our birthdays - but I have stuck to the belief that everyone's day of birth needs to be celebrated - even if all I do is acknowledge it. I mean, I like to feel valued on my birthday. It isn't about gifts - it is just about being remembered that I count. That I am valued. And I feel that other people, deep down, feel the same way. Yes, my sons will blow off the day, my daughter says she doesn't have birthdays anymore.... but too bad. Mom will always remember their special day. so there!
I've become team captain of the American Heart Association 'Heart Walk' that is scheduled on March 21. I keep asking myself 'What were you thinking!' for putting myself in this position - but sometimes we just need to step out of our comfort zone and be the leader we were created to be. I've already got about twenty people on my team - if all will follow through as they say they will. Our CEO wants the company to raise $12,500 and I need to help come up with ideas on how to raise it. Of course my first thought is 'Bake Sale'! LOL It's always about food. Then there is the silent auction for 'white elephant' items we all have in our homes. I'll have to think about what else we can do to raise money.
We ran away last weekend to Prescott Valley for a couple days. It was good to get out of town and spend some time with friends. We haven't done that in awhile.
As I think about what I just wrote I wonder if people think like that about spending time with God. Would someone write - or say - "I ran away last weekend to spend some time with God. It was good to spend time with Him because I hadn't done it in awhile"..... I guess I don't think that way because I try to spend time with Him every morning. No, I'm not bragging. Some mornings it is very difficult to get up earlier than I need to in order to have that time. And, sometimes I have fallen back to sleep for a little while. But it is time I treasure and time I find most valuable. It has been the way I've started my day for over 25 years and I don't know if I could just get up and NOT spend at least a few minutes with God in the morning. Sure, when we are with others it can be difficult, but I think I have managed to spend a few minutes at least to pray if I can't read my Bible as well. For me, it is time much needed to start my day. Once I do that, I feel I can handle whatever comes at me during the day and know that I can get throught it.
What about you? When was the last time you spent some time with God? Even on your way to work you can utter a prayer to Him to help you stay on track and get your work done timely and well. Pray for your family, your spouse and children. Pray for friends that need Him. Pray for yourself, that you will receive strength to get through personal issues. God is always with us and waiting to hear from us. Take some time and allow yourself to speak to God....and listen.... you just might hear His whisper back.
Blessings!
Friday, January 16, 2015
Learned something I hadn't thought about before.....
I've been reading a book called The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People here at work. Actually, our President and HR are working together for those who are - or want to be - leaders to go through the book together. I jumped at the opportunity to learn something new. I had read the books years ago, but obviously I have forgotten what I read, it has been so long. So I was anxious to get started again, to have discussion and just learn from it. I always retain more when a book is discussed than I do just reading through it.
One thing I learned in the first habit is that we lose integrity to ourselves (and others) when we say we are going to do something - and don't. For example, if you say you are going to start a new diet on Monday morning, or get up early in the morning and start exercising, and then choose not to do either because you just don't want to do it, you lose integrity with yourself because you are not holding yourself accountable to what you said you were going to do. Another example is throwing away a pack of cigarettes and saying "I'm quitting smoking". You quit for a day or two - and then buy another pack. You set yourself up for failure. Regardless of what we think, meaning 'I can't do this'.... we lose integrity to ourselves because we quit on ourselves. Think about that.
As we all know, when we tell someone we will do something and (without a valid reason) then don't follow through, we lose our integrity with that person. We may brush them off and say 'I'm too busy for them today' or 'I know I said I'd pay that bill, but I don't have any money because I need to .... ' we lose integrity with that person, or that company. After a few of these failures to follow through on your word, they no longer believe you, nor trust you.
And we want people to believe us. We want people to trust us. Especially those we love and care about. What about our spouse, our children? We want them to believe us and trust us and respect us. But when we fail to live what our word says, or fail to live as we should, we lose that trust, that respect, that integrity.
I think the part that really got me was the one of losing integrity with myself. How many times have I told myself I will get up and exercise.... or will do this or that.... and I don't get it done, without a valid reason... I'm guilty. As I'm sure you are.
Let's make a deal with each other. You and me. Let's start today by doing what we say we will do. By living as we say we should live. By saying what we mean, and meaning what we say. You in?
Let's do it!
Blessings!
One thing I learned in the first habit is that we lose integrity to ourselves (and others) when we say we are going to do something - and don't. For example, if you say you are going to start a new diet on Monday morning, or get up early in the morning and start exercising, and then choose not to do either because you just don't want to do it, you lose integrity with yourself because you are not holding yourself accountable to what you said you were going to do. Another example is throwing away a pack of cigarettes and saying "I'm quitting smoking". You quit for a day or two - and then buy another pack. You set yourself up for failure. Regardless of what we think, meaning 'I can't do this'.... we lose integrity to ourselves because we quit on ourselves. Think about that.
As we all know, when we tell someone we will do something and (without a valid reason) then don't follow through, we lose our integrity with that person. We may brush them off and say 'I'm too busy for them today' or 'I know I said I'd pay that bill, but I don't have any money because I need to .... ' we lose integrity with that person, or that company. After a few of these failures to follow through on your word, they no longer believe you, nor trust you.
And we want people to believe us. We want people to trust us. Especially those we love and care about. What about our spouse, our children? We want them to believe us and trust us and respect us. But when we fail to live what our word says, or fail to live as we should, we lose that trust, that respect, that integrity.
I think the part that really got me was the one of losing integrity with myself. How many times have I told myself I will get up and exercise.... or will do this or that.... and I don't get it done, without a valid reason... I'm guilty. As I'm sure you are.
Let's make a deal with each other. You and me. Let's start today by doing what we say we will do. By living as we say we should live. By saying what we mean, and meaning what we say. You in?
Let's do it!
Blessings!
Monday, January 12, 2015
Got some things done.....
Saturday I worked hard. I don't know what possessed me. By that, I mean I don't know what got me focused on getting something done. But I tell you what, although I am a big procrastinator, and I am sure I have ADHD - I got one room cleaned that I wanted to get cleaned on Saturday. I still have my back room, the guest room, and my office - all of which really needs a good clean-up. So what got my attention?
I had to go to the grocery store. So I cleaned out the refrigerator so that I could see what we really needed to buy. With that accomplished, I turned to the pantry. Oh yeah, all the shelves were really dusty - and have been for some time. But I straightened up the shelves and put the cans where they belonged. I made up a brief grocery list, after all, I am in between paydays. And off I went to the grocery.
You are probably figuring out already where I spent my time most of Saturday. Yep, after I came home from the grocery and started to put things away, I again looked at the dust on the pantry shelves and decided that since the shelves were nearly bare anyway, before I put the new cans on the shelf, I needed to clean them off. So shelf by shelf I took things off and was able to complete all but two of the bottom shelves where I keep my pampered chef pans and big stuff. I even got the shelves in front of the window. Then I started getting real light-headed, not sure why. Allergic to work? Doubtful. But the light-headedness persisted so when I finished with all but the two heavy laden shelves, I took to the couch to ward off any issues. Still not sure what caused it, but it lasted most of the day. Because I didn't eat lunch? Maybe - but I had a big breakfast. I don't know. It was just a real weird feeling, for sure. Cleared up after six that evening and it hasn't come back - hopefully it was just a quirk.
So now the pantry is cleaned and dusted and things are back on the shelves. Looks pretty good, even if I do say so myself! After church I let myself go play with my daughter and walk around a couple shops. No, the only thing I bought was a new box of tea for work. But it was a nice day and was good to get out.
The good part of having to 'rest' on Saturday after cleaning is that I was able to complete one book I was reading and read more in another book I am doing for work. And of course keep caught up in my 'Words with Friends'. I like the game cause it helps me keep my mind busy.
It is interesting that altho I 'rested' on Saturday, I didn't go to sleep in the afternoon - and come evening, I was awake several times during the night. Saturday night when I would awake I was reminded to pray over my boys.... hope there wasn't a real reason.... But again last night I was awakened three times during the night. Not sure why I woke up, but sure hope I sleep through the night tonight.
I don't usually mind being wakened during the night when my thoughts will focus and a name will come to mind for me to pray for. After I pray I usually go right back to sleep. I'm glad of that - 4AM comes early in the morning! Marley most always now is on the futon waiting on me when I come in. I whisper to her in the dark ('it's me, girl) and then walk across the room to turn the light on. She goes back to sleep until she senses me putting things down so that I can get up and head to the other room to get dressed. She's so funny. This morning as I was stacking my books up, she gets up and stretches, then sits in front of me. As I started to get up, she puts her two front paws on me to tell me, "not yet" - and then proceeds to climb into my lap. After petting her and loving on her for a minute, I have to make her get off for she won't get off on her own. This has gotten to be a morning ritual for her. Then she runs to the back door so that I can let her out for her 'morning duties', then runs back to the door to come in. This morning it was wet out.
My morning drive started out with going around an accident right where I turn on the street to get on the freeway. I ended up having to go into the shopping mall area and go around that way to get to the freeway entrance. Yeah, I could have done a u-turn, but, whatever. I didn't see any other accidents, although the road was very wet. I left a lot of room between me and the person in front of me. It wasn't too bad - but I'm hearing people come in and talking about the accidents they passed on the way in. One said on her drive she saw 3 accidents! My boss said she saw one. I always thank God that He gets me through all accidents and keeps me from being a part of it. Of course I have to do my part and drive carefully, then He does His part and takes care of me.
Hope that you have a safe driving day and since hubby and I have already prayed for our children on the road today, I'm going to trust they will also get through the day safely. Be safe out there.
Blessings!
I had to go to the grocery store. So I cleaned out the refrigerator so that I could see what we really needed to buy. With that accomplished, I turned to the pantry. Oh yeah, all the shelves were really dusty - and have been for some time. But I straightened up the shelves and put the cans where they belonged. I made up a brief grocery list, after all, I am in between paydays. And off I went to the grocery.
You are probably figuring out already where I spent my time most of Saturday. Yep, after I came home from the grocery and started to put things away, I again looked at the dust on the pantry shelves and decided that since the shelves were nearly bare anyway, before I put the new cans on the shelf, I needed to clean them off. So shelf by shelf I took things off and was able to complete all but two of the bottom shelves where I keep my pampered chef pans and big stuff. I even got the shelves in front of the window. Then I started getting real light-headed, not sure why. Allergic to work? Doubtful. But the light-headedness persisted so when I finished with all but the two heavy laden shelves, I took to the couch to ward off any issues. Still not sure what caused it, but it lasted most of the day. Because I didn't eat lunch? Maybe - but I had a big breakfast. I don't know. It was just a real weird feeling, for sure. Cleared up after six that evening and it hasn't come back - hopefully it was just a quirk.
So now the pantry is cleaned and dusted and things are back on the shelves. Looks pretty good, even if I do say so myself! After church I let myself go play with my daughter and walk around a couple shops. No, the only thing I bought was a new box of tea for work. But it was a nice day and was good to get out.
The good part of having to 'rest' on Saturday after cleaning is that I was able to complete one book I was reading and read more in another book I am doing for work. And of course keep caught up in my 'Words with Friends'. I like the game cause it helps me keep my mind busy.
It is interesting that altho I 'rested' on Saturday, I didn't go to sleep in the afternoon - and come evening, I was awake several times during the night. Saturday night when I would awake I was reminded to pray over my boys.... hope there wasn't a real reason.... But again last night I was awakened three times during the night. Not sure why I woke up, but sure hope I sleep through the night tonight.
I don't usually mind being wakened during the night when my thoughts will focus and a name will come to mind for me to pray for. After I pray I usually go right back to sleep. I'm glad of that - 4AM comes early in the morning! Marley most always now is on the futon waiting on me when I come in. I whisper to her in the dark ('it's me, girl) and then walk across the room to turn the light on. She goes back to sleep until she senses me putting things down so that I can get up and head to the other room to get dressed. She's so funny. This morning as I was stacking my books up, she gets up and stretches, then sits in front of me. As I started to get up, she puts her two front paws on me to tell me, "not yet" - and then proceeds to climb into my lap. After petting her and loving on her for a minute, I have to make her get off for she won't get off on her own. This has gotten to be a morning ritual for her. Then she runs to the back door so that I can let her out for her 'morning duties', then runs back to the door to come in. This morning it was wet out.
My morning drive started out with going around an accident right where I turn on the street to get on the freeway. I ended up having to go into the shopping mall area and go around that way to get to the freeway entrance. Yeah, I could have done a u-turn, but, whatever. I didn't see any other accidents, although the road was very wet. I left a lot of room between me and the person in front of me. It wasn't too bad - but I'm hearing people come in and talking about the accidents they passed on the way in. One said on her drive she saw 3 accidents! My boss said she saw one. I always thank God that He gets me through all accidents and keeps me from being a part of it. Of course I have to do my part and drive carefully, then He does His part and takes care of me.
Hope that you have a safe driving day and since hubby and I have already prayed for our children on the road today, I'm going to trust they will also get through the day safely. Be safe out there.
Blessings!
Friday, January 9, 2015
Pondering Thankfulness
Yep. That is what I was doing on my way in to work this morning. Pondering Thankfulness. How did I do that? I began to think of all the things we have, the things we take for granted, those that we don't take for granted, but are grateful for. It can really be revealing, you know.
When was the last time you thought about thankfulness? What does thankfulness mean?
According to Webster - thankfulness means 'expressing appreciation'.
Huh. I guess that is true, but what if you don't express it? Is thinking about it expression? Interesting. See, it makes one ponder.
Anyway, I was truly expressing thankfulness this morning and thanking God for all His blessings to us. Our home, our health, my job, and many other things. I find that when I acknowledge the things I have - and am truly appreciative of - it makes me thankful for all the good things I have.
What about you? I know you all can think of something to be thankful for. Have you told God 'thank you for...' lately? Stop for a few minutes and thank Him. He's waiting to hear from you.
Blessings!
When was the last time you thought about thankfulness? What does thankfulness mean?
According to Webster - thankfulness means 'expressing appreciation'.
Huh. I guess that is true, but what if you don't express it? Is thinking about it expression? Interesting. See, it makes one ponder.
Anyway, I was truly expressing thankfulness this morning and thanking God for all His blessings to us. Our home, our health, my job, and many other things. I find that when I acknowledge the things I have - and am truly appreciative of - it makes me thankful for all the good things I have.
What about you? I know you all can think of something to be thankful for. Have you told God 'thank you for...' lately? Stop for a few minutes and thank Him. He's waiting to hear from you.
Blessings!
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
The truth be known.....
Wow. I was awake at 3:15AM this morning. Want to know what the first thought was that popped into my head? "I DON'T WANT TO EXERCISE!"
Yep. In spite of telling myself most nights that if I wake up about 3:15AM, I could get up, dress, and get about 1/2 hour of walking on my treadmill before I do my quiet time - that was my first thought this morning. Needless to say, I turned over and tried to go back to sleep until 4AM - and was able to do so. I just found it funny that was my first thought.
I'm not starting this year off right with exercise yet. But it is a goal. I just need to get the 'start the goal' mode going.
It just ain't happening today.
Our temperatures out here have been crazy - cold in the mornings, and warming up very well by afternoon. I imagine my son is wearing his shorts to work as it can get quite warm in the afternoon. In fact - it was 45 degrees this morning, (which is warmer than it was the first of the week at 29 degrees, I think it was)and it is to be 80 degrees tonight, according to my husband. Of course, I wear a sweater today so will be warm going home - but that's ok. I'm warm in the morning. In fact, I still wore a coat today - just took it off when I got here and left it in the car.
So how are you doing on your goals? Did you make any for this year? Except for the exercise, I think I'm holding my own. I do plan to do it.... I have 358 more days - right?
Going to be a quiet day as a meeting got cancelled. Boss is meeting a friend for breakfast so she will be in late. I got a lot done yesterday - and hopefully will today as well. It's quiet and mellow here. It won't be long before all the meetings and the work they entail will kick in.
I was reading in Matthew 5 this morning on the Beatitudes. You know, the 'Blessed be...' . I gave some thought to those as I was reading. When was the last time you read them? Maybe you should take some time and just read again how blessed we are - and how blessed we can be. Go for it.
Blessings!
Yep. In spite of telling myself most nights that if I wake up about 3:15AM, I could get up, dress, and get about 1/2 hour of walking on my treadmill before I do my quiet time - that was my first thought this morning. Needless to say, I turned over and tried to go back to sleep until 4AM - and was able to do so. I just found it funny that was my first thought.
I'm not starting this year off right with exercise yet. But it is a goal. I just need to get the 'start the goal' mode going.
It just ain't happening today.
Our temperatures out here have been crazy - cold in the mornings, and warming up very well by afternoon. I imagine my son is wearing his shorts to work as it can get quite warm in the afternoon. In fact - it was 45 degrees this morning, (which is warmer than it was the first of the week at 29 degrees, I think it was)and it is to be 80 degrees tonight, according to my husband. Of course, I wear a sweater today so will be warm going home - but that's ok. I'm warm in the morning. In fact, I still wore a coat today - just took it off when I got here and left it in the car.
So how are you doing on your goals? Did you make any for this year? Except for the exercise, I think I'm holding my own. I do plan to do it.... I have 358 more days - right?
Going to be a quiet day as a meeting got cancelled. Boss is meeting a friend for breakfast so she will be in late. I got a lot done yesterday - and hopefully will today as well. It's quiet and mellow here. It won't be long before all the meetings and the work they entail will kick in.
I was reading in Matthew 5 this morning on the Beatitudes. You know, the 'Blessed be...' . I gave some thought to those as I was reading. When was the last time you read them? Maybe you should take some time and just read again how blessed we are - and how blessed we can be. Go for it.
Blessings!
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Getting settled in the new year.....
Yeah, I started to write a short post yesterday, but got distracted. My boss came in early and we got to talking. I had the disc of my granddaughter's senior photos so had to show her off as well. Yesterday was a quiet day, though, pretty much. I was able to leave around 10-ish and head over to the doctor's office to get some blood drawn for lab work. A prescription got lost and I am out so need to go through the hoops to get another prescription. Have a doctor's appointment next week. Oh the things we have to do in order to stay well.
But this new year is starting out pretty well. Even with the big TV out, hubby hasn't grumbled much. He knows he can use the TV in my room if he wants - or his in the office. In the evenings we have been reading and playing games on our electronic devices. I've gotten more reading done, which is what I am happy to do. I want to get back into reading more - but it was hard with the TV on. I get distracted too easily with pictures flying around int he background. With it being off, I'm able to read more.
I've jumped on a couple challenges for this new year. My former pastor has issued an Anno Domino challenge from his church in Oklahoma City, OK. It is to learn more about Jesus. There are a few challenges he listed and we are to select three of them to complete. Being the over-achiever that I have been accused of being... I chose four. :-) Another challenge is the 21 day fast with another church - in fact, I know of two churches that are doing it. I am doing a modified Daniel Fast. What I mean by that is I'm eating fruits and vegetables, eggs, and nuts - but if I want cheese, I will still use it. For example, I bought tomato basil soup and also broccoli and cheese soup last night. For dinner we had a cup of tomato basil, 1/2 a baked potato, and I put some broccoli and cheese soup on top of the potato. Hubby cut up celery and we had peanut butter on it, plus sliced tomatoes. Basically, what I am giving up is all meat, all breads, pasta, etc, and chocolate/desserts. Even though I am allowing myself occasional dairy, it is really hard to give up my breads and desserts. Meats are difficult, somewhat, as we have fairly often. It is just difficult to plan a meal around vegetables. I'm eating a lot of oranges from our tree - hopefully the very cold mornings we have had lately haven't ruined what is left on the tree. I asked hubby to pick some more today. We didn't start until January 4th - so are only three days into the fast. We can go back to eating as usual - if we want to - on January 25th. I'm sure hubby will be more than ready for a good steak by then!
I formally submitted a request to have my job upgraded to Executive Assistant from Administrative Assistant yesterday. I do a lot of work for other departments, and could do more things at times. Last week I was able to get all my minutes caught up. This week I only have one meeting for which I don't have to do much preparation for. Next week only two meetings, but one is a 'biggie'. From then on my days will be busy. A lot of people depend on me to get things done and keep up on things. I feel that I meet all the qualifications required so I formally submitted the request. Hey - all they can do is say 'no'. It won't change anything that I'm doing now. If they say yes, maybe I'll get a raise. :-) That would be very nice. I'm still about $12,000 down from where I was. It does make a big difference, for sure.
I am enjoying, if you understand, being involved in the challenge and in the fast. It helps me keep my mind focused on what is important to me. Jesus is my top priority, and I want to keep Him first in my life. Sometimes I have allowed other people and other things to be first. That is wrong. I've found that with being conscious of things I want to complete in the challenge and watching what I eat causes me to think of the reason why I am doing this. I want to fall deeper in love with Jesus. I want to grow in my knowledge of Him. I want to refresh my spirit in Him. For those of you who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus, that may be hard for you to understand. Life is so much better when Jesus is in it. I've done it both ways. Trust me, Jesus is much better.
He is the One I can run to no matter where I am, no matter what mood I am in, no matter what predictament I put myself in - I know I can run to Him and He will walk me through it. When I'm joyful I can praise Him - and when times are hard, I can praise Him.
I think that is why I like the movie 'Facing the Giants' so much. In the movie they say 'If we win, we praise Him. If we lose, we praise Him. We do our very best for God. Our very best. If we leave it all out on the field, then we have honored Him.' Ok, some of it I may have added - but it's my perspective. I want to give God my very best. Then I leave the results up to Him.
What about you? How are you starting this new year off? My son taught me that resolutions are easily broken. Choose a goal, and work towards it. Think about it. What's your goal?
Blessings!
But this new year is starting out pretty well. Even with the big TV out, hubby hasn't grumbled much. He knows he can use the TV in my room if he wants - or his in the office. In the evenings we have been reading and playing games on our electronic devices. I've gotten more reading done, which is what I am happy to do. I want to get back into reading more - but it was hard with the TV on. I get distracted too easily with pictures flying around int he background. With it being off, I'm able to read more.
I've jumped on a couple challenges for this new year. My former pastor has issued an Anno Domino challenge from his church in Oklahoma City, OK. It is to learn more about Jesus. There are a few challenges he listed and we are to select three of them to complete. Being the over-achiever that I have been accused of being... I chose four. :-) Another challenge is the 21 day fast with another church - in fact, I know of two churches that are doing it. I am doing a modified Daniel Fast. What I mean by that is I'm eating fruits and vegetables, eggs, and nuts - but if I want cheese, I will still use it. For example, I bought tomato basil soup and also broccoli and cheese soup last night. For dinner we had a cup of tomato basil, 1/2 a baked potato, and I put some broccoli and cheese soup on top of the potato. Hubby cut up celery and we had peanut butter on it, plus sliced tomatoes. Basically, what I am giving up is all meat, all breads, pasta, etc, and chocolate/desserts. Even though I am allowing myself occasional dairy, it is really hard to give up my breads and desserts. Meats are difficult, somewhat, as we have fairly often. It is just difficult to plan a meal around vegetables. I'm eating a lot of oranges from our tree - hopefully the very cold mornings we have had lately haven't ruined what is left on the tree. I asked hubby to pick some more today. We didn't start until January 4th - so are only three days into the fast. We can go back to eating as usual - if we want to - on January 25th. I'm sure hubby will be more than ready for a good steak by then!
I formally submitted a request to have my job upgraded to Executive Assistant from Administrative Assistant yesterday. I do a lot of work for other departments, and could do more things at times. Last week I was able to get all my minutes caught up. This week I only have one meeting for which I don't have to do much preparation for. Next week only two meetings, but one is a 'biggie'. From then on my days will be busy. A lot of people depend on me to get things done and keep up on things. I feel that I meet all the qualifications required so I formally submitted the request. Hey - all they can do is say 'no'. It won't change anything that I'm doing now. If they say yes, maybe I'll get a raise. :-) That would be very nice. I'm still about $12,000 down from where I was. It does make a big difference, for sure.
I am enjoying, if you understand, being involved in the challenge and in the fast. It helps me keep my mind focused on what is important to me. Jesus is my top priority, and I want to keep Him first in my life. Sometimes I have allowed other people and other things to be first. That is wrong. I've found that with being conscious of things I want to complete in the challenge and watching what I eat causes me to think of the reason why I am doing this. I want to fall deeper in love with Jesus. I want to grow in my knowledge of Him. I want to refresh my spirit in Him. For those of you who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus, that may be hard for you to understand. Life is so much better when Jesus is in it. I've done it both ways. Trust me, Jesus is much better.
He is the One I can run to no matter where I am, no matter what mood I am in, no matter what predictament I put myself in - I know I can run to Him and He will walk me through it. When I'm joyful I can praise Him - and when times are hard, I can praise Him.
I think that is why I like the movie 'Facing the Giants' so much. In the movie they say 'If we win, we praise Him. If we lose, we praise Him. We do our very best for God. Our very best. If we leave it all out on the field, then we have honored Him.' Ok, some of it I may have added - but it's my perspective. I want to give God my very best. Then I leave the results up to Him.
What about you? How are you starting this new year off? My son taught me that resolutions are easily broken. Choose a goal, and work towards it. Think about it. What's your goal?
Blessings!
Friday, January 2, 2015
Happy New Year!
Brrrr - it's cold out there this morning! My van reported 29 degrees as I checked it while it was warming up this morning. I wanted to leave a little early this morning so I wouldn't get caught in traffic (anticipating erroneously that more people would be back at work today) - and found frost thickly coated on my van windows. Hubby scraped them off while I got my things and prepared to leave. Didn't take long for the van to warm up - and with little traffic was able to be at work within 30 minutes. Very unusual. Monday I will be back to the 40-45 minutes or more, I'm sure as everyone should be back at work.
It was cold this weekend but still, it wasn't too bad. The rain came at night - snow in higher elevations. Other than being cold, it wasn't bad. I have coats, gloves, and scarves to cover the cold with! I don't mind nippy, but I do mind cold!
My workweek is all messed up with my time off recently and days off for the holidays. Yesterday was Saturday to me all day. And yet, today is Friday. I could have taken today off as well, but there was no need to. My next "holiday" is January 19th - Civil Rights day.
With the new year comes the thought of 'goals' or 'resolutions'. As I sat in my quiet time yesterday I gave thought to that topic, and I did write down 10 goals that I wanted to achieve. I don't remember what they all are right now - and my book is at home. But I know the first one was to grow in intimacy with Jesus. I want to be closer to Him. It's so cool how God answers our prayers sometimes.
Last evening I was skimming through facebook when I saw a post by our former pastor. He was sharing a challenge he was issuing to his church in Oklahoma City - the challenge is called Anno Domini which is Medieval Latin and the translation is the year of the Lord or the Year of Our Lord. Pastor Steve listed 7 things - and the challenge is to do at least 3 of them. All are do-able except 1 for me - attend Wednesday evening classes there. But the others were completing do-able - even the memorizing a scripture a week. That is something that I find difficult anymore - so that will be a challenge, but reading the four gospels, reading books about Jesus - those are completely do-able. God knows I get discouraged doing things by myself and find myself quitting. And I hate to be a quitter. But I do. I give up. I sent Pastor Steve a quick message theat "I'm IN" cause I have others I can do it with - and I'm sure I will report in to him on occasion to make sure I stay on track. It will be more fun doing it with others than doing it alone.
I listed a couple other things on my 'Goal List' - the usual - get organized, get un-cluttered, pay off bills, get balanced in life and other things. It's only a list until I do something. It's only something I penned, unless I take steps to complete. With the challenge I can complete at least two of the items but I still have the others to work on.
So what did you do for New Years? Did you think about goals you would like to accomplish?
Our new year started out frustrating for hubby. He went to turn the big TV on..... and nothing. No sound, no picture. It worked fine the night before as we watched some of the New Years celebrations. We did all we could think to do - and still nothing, so he is bummed. He now watches the news in his office, but it is a much smaller screen. I took some BBQ ribs over to my neighbor yesterday and she reminded me her caregiver used to be a television repairman years ago. Don't know if he can fix it - but I imagine he will be over this morning to take a look at it. He is also a whiz on computer, photography, and many other things. He sets his mind to learn about it and he does it thoroughly. If he can't fix it - well, I'll move the TV from my office into the front room until we can save the money to get another. We got out money's worth out of this one - I bought it in December 2004. Ten years and it has gotten a lot of use!
One goal I should have and did not (intentionally) list was exercise. I enjoy exercising, and I want to and plan to, but don't want the pressure of it being a 'goal'. It should be my lifestyle. Maybe by the end of the year it will - but for now, it isn't. I just need to 'do it'! I used to walk the treadmill and read at the same time - maybe I will go back to that and accomplish two things at once - read a book a month and get exercise too! :-)
Being the first workday of the year I am back at work so need to get busy. Hope you had a great January 1 - and are looking forward to 'LIFE" happening this year. I know I am!
Blessings!
It was cold this weekend but still, it wasn't too bad. The rain came at night - snow in higher elevations. Other than being cold, it wasn't bad. I have coats, gloves, and scarves to cover the cold with! I don't mind nippy, but I do mind cold!
My workweek is all messed up with my time off recently and days off for the holidays. Yesterday was Saturday to me all day. And yet, today is Friday. I could have taken today off as well, but there was no need to. My next "holiday" is January 19th - Civil Rights day.
With the new year comes the thought of 'goals' or 'resolutions'. As I sat in my quiet time yesterday I gave thought to that topic, and I did write down 10 goals that I wanted to achieve. I don't remember what they all are right now - and my book is at home. But I know the first one was to grow in intimacy with Jesus. I want to be closer to Him. It's so cool how God answers our prayers sometimes.
Last evening I was skimming through facebook when I saw a post by our former pastor. He was sharing a challenge he was issuing to his church in Oklahoma City - the challenge is called Anno Domini which is Medieval Latin and the translation is the year of the Lord or the Year of Our Lord. Pastor Steve listed 7 things - and the challenge is to do at least 3 of them. All are do-able except 1 for me - attend Wednesday evening classes there. But the others were completing do-able - even the memorizing a scripture a week. That is something that I find difficult anymore - so that will be a challenge, but reading the four gospels, reading books about Jesus - those are completely do-able. God knows I get discouraged doing things by myself and find myself quitting. And I hate to be a quitter. But I do. I give up. I sent Pastor Steve a quick message theat "I'm IN" cause I have others I can do it with - and I'm sure I will report in to him on occasion to make sure I stay on track. It will be more fun doing it with others than doing it alone.
I listed a couple other things on my 'Goal List' - the usual - get organized, get un-cluttered, pay off bills, get balanced in life and other things. It's only a list until I do something. It's only something I penned, unless I take steps to complete. With the challenge I can complete at least two of the items but I still have the others to work on.
So what did you do for New Years? Did you think about goals you would like to accomplish?
Our new year started out frustrating for hubby. He went to turn the big TV on..... and nothing. No sound, no picture. It worked fine the night before as we watched some of the New Years celebrations. We did all we could think to do - and still nothing, so he is bummed. He now watches the news in his office, but it is a much smaller screen. I took some BBQ ribs over to my neighbor yesterday and she reminded me her caregiver used to be a television repairman years ago. Don't know if he can fix it - but I imagine he will be over this morning to take a look at it. He is also a whiz on computer, photography, and many other things. He sets his mind to learn about it and he does it thoroughly. If he can't fix it - well, I'll move the TV from my office into the front room until we can save the money to get another. We got out money's worth out of this one - I bought it in December 2004. Ten years and it has gotten a lot of use!
One goal I should have and did not (intentionally) list was exercise. I enjoy exercising, and I want to and plan to, but don't want the pressure of it being a 'goal'. It should be my lifestyle. Maybe by the end of the year it will - but for now, it isn't. I just need to 'do it'! I used to walk the treadmill and read at the same time - maybe I will go back to that and accomplish two things at once - read a book a month and get exercise too! :-)
Being the first workday of the year I am back at work so need to get busy. Hope you had a great January 1 - and are looking forward to 'LIFE" happening this year. I know I am!
Blessings!
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