I did ten minutes....

 I did.  Yesterday, while hubby was out doing his errands, I decided to take a quick break and I did get on the treadmill for ten minutes.  No it isn't much, that is true.  But it is a start.  So I started with ten minutes yesterday, perhaps I can do fifteen minutes today?  Hubby SHOULD go to his Bible study today and if I can get myself away from the work computer, I should be able to.  I know hubby being home shouldn't make a difference  But it does.  I can't explain it.  Enough of that.

Yesterday was an extremely busy day with work.  I didn't get everything completed but was at a place where I could put it off until today.  I like being kept busy, but some things I don't enjoy doing and it seems to take me longer, because I don't enjoy that stuff.  But, it is what it is.  I am still working for a reason and I need to just 'suck it up' and do it, right?   I often wonder what it would be like to retire, and I realize the only thing that would change is that hubby would hover over me more and I wouldn't be sitting in front of the computer all day doing things.  I would read more, yes, and I would try to crochet/knit/sew more... but for what reason?  I think my life would be more boring than it gets sometimes.  My weekends prove that.  Or is it that my life depresses me moreso on weekends.... 

Finished another book last night - and have one already that I want to read.  I finished "Finding Favor with God" by Ronnie Floyd, and am now going to read Cheryl Sacks new book "Fire on the Family Altar".  I didn't get up to look, but I'm pretty sure that is the name of it.  I already have started it and it reads like a good one.  I have, I think, nearly all her books from over the years.  She truly is a godly woman and I've known her for about 30 years.  Not close, and she may not remember my name now, but at one time she did know it as I often worked with her and her team - selling books, of course - at some of the prayer coordinator breakfasts and the conferences.  

I sit here now and look to my right at the small bookcase next to me and see several books that I have there I want to read... and several I have read and want to re-read.  Can you believe that hubby made a smart aleck comment to me yesterday?  I know you will be as shocked as I was.  He said, "This is the first day in several that you haven't gotten a book either by Amazon or the mail."  Smart Aleck.  I can remedy that, you know.  I'm just trying to slow down my stack growing.

I read the book of Haggai this morning.  It's in the old testament.  In it God is speaking through the prophet that He is withholding crops and rain from His people because they are focused upon themselves, and not on rebuilding the Lord's temple.  We do that, don't we?  And we wonder why God is not blessing the fruit of our hands.  We want things for our homes, fancy cars, things for our pleasure... and we neglect the things that honor God.  How do we do that?

By not honoring His Word; by not caring about others, by keeping 'our' needs ahead of others.  I've known people who have shared with others and they seem to never run out.  It doesn't mean they give away everything; but it does mean that they share what they have, and when they do, God blesses them and replenishes what they do have.  He makes it stretch and meet every need.  I love to do for others and give it away.  You probably have figured out by now I love to cook - and give away the food.  I like trying new things.  I don't want 'honor' and 'recognition' - I just want to give - and food is one way that I can do that.  I enjoy cooking.  I enjoy giving it to someone who will eat it.  I try not to do it real often and pass to my neighbors for I don't want them to expect or depend on it.  Does that make sense?  I want to do it because I love to give it away.

And I think that is what God wants me to do.  There isn't much I can do otherwise.  Unless God tells me or shows me specifically there is something He wants me to do... I just keep doing what I'm doing.  I know, in most cases, it is appreciated.  

Haggai 1:13 (NKJV):  Then Haggai, the LORD's messenger, spoke the LORD's message to the people, saying, "I am with you, says the LORD."

There is something to be said about hearing those words "I am with you, says the LORD."  He is with us in all the good times that He gives us, He is with us in all the hard times that He allows to happen to us.  Many of the hard times is because of our own choices.  We get ourselves in situations that we shouldn't be in.... and we are allowed to go through the consequences.  Why? Because that is how we learn NOT to do it again.  It doesn't matter if it is food or drink or situations... sometimes we do things we just shouldn't.

Ok - erase erase.  I was trying to give examples and unfortunately, I was using hubby as the example... and I don't need to write anything.  I need to stick with myself as an example and not call out anyone else - right?

Had I mentioned that hubby has found a cabin for us to spend our anniversary vacation at?  I am so looking forward to more than just a couple days to getaway.  We've stayed there before and enjoyed it. It's quiet, we'd have to drive a little ways to get to anything, but we want to read and (I want) to take short walks.  I want to relax.  Not sure if it has wifi or not so that may present a problem with typing in here,... would you miss my ramblings?

My next 'day off' work will be March 16th, when I have my right eye surgery.  My boss told me not to take the next day off if I can work; save the day. She knows I'll have to go see the doctor for a follow-up and she says that's ok.  She knows I also generally work my lunch hours most days and when I need to, I work late, and rarely, on a weekend. I have an awesome boss, for sure.  I won't be able to do much reading that day, I'm pretty sure.  In April I will probably have the left eye done if all goes well with the right eye.  And it should.  At least I will have met my insurance deductible.  And that's when I want to get everything done this year that needs to be done - the insurance will pay more!  

And, now I'm rambling for sure.  So I'll hush.  I need to find some topics to talk about so that I don't bore you so often.  Cookies, anyone?  I still have nuts and chocolate chips left over from Christmas.  Only one granddaughter and great-granddaughter came over to bake cookies this year.  I think that era has come to an end... but am grateful for what I had, and what I still have.  It doesn't have to just be Christmas... I'm always wanting to bake cookies.  Maybe this week even.  And give them away, of course.

Hope you have a good day - I'm just cruising in my mind but with nothing to share, will hush.

Blessings!

Wish I could re-charge quickly -

 or as quickly as my watch can!  I don't know what my problem was this morning...other than I didn't sleep as well as I would have liked.  I got up at 4AM as usual.... came in here, curled up in my chair - and went back to sleep!  I don't like it when I do that - for it takes valuable time away from God and from things I like to do in the mornings.  I have gotten so lazy... and I simply must snap out of it!

I've been doing a lot of reading lately and that is a good thing... especially since I have several books I want to read and I won't let myself move to more than two or three at a time... and that's not counting the devotionals or books I read in here in the morning besides my Bible.  I did get one finished last weekend and passed it on to hubby to read... I think he has gotten started on it... and I can't believe I just smirked to myself... I got great insight from this book... and I wonder if it will reach the inner recesses of his mind like it did mine.  Oh well.  No Judgement.  His books give me no interest whatsoever to even open.  Although they are good books, don't get me wrong.  

YAY!  Got plans - sorta - arranged with a grandson to take him out for his birthday dinner.  We have scheduled it for Thursday - without checking calendars.  I think it will work for us.  If not, will ask to move it.  Looking forward to spending time with him.  

Church was good yesterday - yes, we did go, and I'm glad we did.  We were ready in time to go to Einstein's for a bagel and coffee and talk a bit before heading on over.  We skipped lunch... but hubby told me he'd take me to dinner... so we ended up at Chili's last night. Food was good; I just wasn't that hungry and brought my leftovers home and gave to Ms. Vicky next door.

Having to watch the clock since I didn't get started in here my usual time.  And because I'm watching the clock... I can't think of anything to write about.  

I'm back to work today and it will be busy for awhile - I know I have 48 messages as I get them on my phone.  I just didn't want to answer them.  So will get that done first thing this morning.  Then I need to order pizzas to be delivered to the Mesa office on Thursday for a large meeting.  Then need to schedule food for delivery next Monday for another meeting.  Need to get my boss' credit card number again... unless I can find it again.  I haven't used it it for about a year - probably need to see which one she wants to use.  Once the food is delivered and I have a receipt I can submit for reimbursement for her.  I miss the days when we had a cafeteria in the building and I could just order catering from them.  The cafeteria is totally gone now and all they have is vending machines.  Sad.

Romans 12:2 (NKJV):  "and do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."

Do not conform to this world.  What does that even mean?  Ah  -  don't allow the world to come in us, perhaps?  Don't live like the world lives?  What do you think it means?

What it means to me is that I need to put God first... love others as I want Him to love me.  Treat others kindly, not hatefully, as some in the world are prone to do.  Don't lie. Don't cheat. Don't steal... we all know those things - and most of us don't do them.  But what is it that is in the world that we just can't let go of?

I know I am lazy at times.  I do have my moments when I get up and get moving... and I struggle with these mornings that I don't want to work.  I don't want to be here. I don't want.... fill in the blank... I don't want it.... 

I just want to be lazy and read my books.  Or crochet.  Or knit.  Definitely not sit here and watch the clock and see I have 5 minutes to get my work computer up and going.  UGH.  That means I need to stop what I'm doing and do something.  And I don't want to.

Part of that laziness has been my diet, no doubt.  I simply must start eating better - and start walking, even if only for ten minutes.  One step at a time.  I need to build my strength up.  One weight at a time.  

Oh woe is me, I am lazy!  But I need to turn it around and not conform to the laziness of the world and make myself fit and strong for the tasks ahead of me.  If I ever get to retire, I want to be able to DO things.... right?  If I'm lazy NOW, I certainly won't have the strength and energy to do things after I retire... whenever that may be.  I don't want retirement to be 'as usual'.... I want to enjoy it.  Does any of that make sense?

And now I'm rambling; 4 minutes to go; and I got to shut down and get the computer turned on.

So starting today, I am going to DO something every day, even if only for ten minutes.

Will you hold me accountable?

Blessings!

Weird dreams, but God still reigns!

 I don't know what hit me last night, but by 7PM I was struggling to stay awake.  Hubby had turned off the TV (YAY) and I was reading in one of my books - and although it was really interesting, my eyes kept shutting.  A little after 8PM I told hubby I couldn't stay up any longer.  I took another ibuprofen before I went to bed as my head was hurting again.  I slept deep, but the weird dreams kept coming, one after another.  But what has stayed with me, is that in each dream I had a scripture come to my mind......

James 4:7 (NKJV):  "Therefore, submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you."

In every single weird dream - of which I can't remember what they were, but I can remember screaming out for Jesus.... and the words 'submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.' would come to my mind.  And the weird dream would go away and another would take its place.  No wonder my neck and head was hurting this morning!  

I admit, I played with the thought of not going to church this morning.  My head does hurt still, but moreso my neck.  I may have slept wrong.  It could have been how I was holding my head/neck while I was reading for awhile last night.  Regardless of how, it is hurting.  I thought that perhaps I'd stay home from church and spend more time in here.  But I also know that wouldn't really happen.  I have a hubby who would either suggest going out for breakfast or wait for me to fix him breakfast.

When hubby got up shortly after I did and brought in my coffee, he asked about my head.  I told him it was still hurting.  He suggested 'WE' stay home from church and watch Jentezen Franklin on the computer.  Tempting.  We haven't watched him for some time because we have been going to our church.  I told him I couldn't think about it right now; I'd let him know.

And the scripture keeps coming to me.... "Therefore, submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you."  I'm thinking the service may be a pretty good one today and the devil doesn't want me to go.  I know we are having a guest speaker today as they announced it last week.  It's always tempting to stay home when there is a guest speaker.  And, technically, I DID have 'church' Friday night at the women's conference, right?  We had worship; we had a message; we had an altar call; we had baptisms. 

But as tempting as it is to stay home and just chill, I/we are going to church this morning.  Hubby will grumble, I'm sure.  Interesting, when he was not feeling well, I still went; but if I'm not feeling well, he will stay home with me.   But we are going to church and I will be stopping shortly to jump in the shower and start getting ready.  I'll get him going by telling him if he gets moving, we can possibly stop at Einstein's for a bagel and a coffee on our way to church.  Anything to do with food and he is all for it.

I can take another ibuprofen for the pain.  I can shower and get dressed.  I can put makeup on.  I can do all these things.... and I will go to church and learn something.  Why am I making myself go when it would be so easy to stay home?  Because I love Jesus and I want to be obedient to Him and be with fellow believers.  I want to worship Him.  And sometimes in the worship, because of obedience to spend this time with Him, my pain generally goes away.  Win-win, right?  I love worship and I would love to spend all day with worship going and spending time with God.  I think that is why I miss the hermitages so much.  No interruptions for meals or calls or anything. I just want to sit at Jesus' feet and learn from Him.

People don't understand me at times.  Even hubby doesn't understand me.  He 'tries' to put up with my insistence of 'leave me alone while I have my time with God' - but he isn't even always quiet when he brings in my coffee, but will interrupt my reading to ask 'did you sleep well?' or 'don't forget I'm having breakfast with...." or 'what are we/you......"  He just doesn't get it that when I'm in here alone with God and reading my Bible - don't interrupt.  If you have to bring coffee in.... just set it down and leave.  Quietly.

Am I grumbling?  I don't mean to this morning.  I would love to stay home and watch 'church' on the computer.  I always get something out of Jentezen Franklin's messages.  But I feel I need to resist the temptation to stay home and go to church.  I need to be with other people worshipping Jesus.  

Do you feel the temptation of staying home this morning as well?  Perhaps you need to consider 'resisting the devil's temptation' as well.  Don't usually go?  Maybe you should go.  Don't you love to do things when some thing or some one tells you not to?  It's built in us, I think.  "Go to church"  No, I'm staying home.  "Stay home today; you deserve a day of relaxation".  No, I'm going to church.  Reverse psychology?

One thing for sure.... when we turn to our pleasures and follow them, we will be missing out on the blessings of God.  It's when we put Him first in our lives that He will bless us and give us the desires of our heart.  I think I will choose Jesus first.  What about you?

Blessings!

I'm glad I went...

 The conference last night was very good.  The speaker was Jada Edwards, a pastor from Texas.  She only spoke twice - 30 minutes each time, but the message she gave us was thought-provoking.  Not sure if I can remember everything, but one thing that stood out was about staying in 'your own lane'.  Look to see what you are passionate about, and do that; don't force  yourself to teach, if you aren't comfortable with it  Don't work with children if God has not given you a great love for children.  I think you get the main picture.  It did give me thought.  And a lot of times, the things God allowed to happen to us as we were growing up, sometimes we are to use that to reach others for Him.   

The breaks were totally awesome.  They had two nacho tables and yes, I did indulge in that one time.  I love nachos - and they even had a bowl of jalapeno peppers.... so good with the thick nacho cheese.  It was really cool how on one of the breaks, that they had clear plastic cups in which they had poured a couple tablespoons of ranch dressing and then had dropped carrots and celery and tomatoes in the cup.  Clever.  Also they had churros broke up in cups and had poured chocolate sauce over them.  Yeah, I enjoyed the snacks. 

We lasted through the sessions and then about 9-ish it was over.  they were having 'after-party' things going on but we (plus my two friends that we met up with) decided to opt out of that and head out.  We of course, came back to our hotel room.  We sat up for a little while, but was in bed a bit after 10PM and as hard as it was for me, I stayed in bed (I was still awake at 4AM but dozed) until 6:30AM.  I got up and started reading my Bible and my daughter got up shortly after.  She's just finishing up the shower now and I'll do a quick shower before we head down to breakfast.  It's free, so may as well, right?  I wonder what they will have.  This is a nice hotel and our room is good; I'd stay here again.  I may be worth the cost this time, but may have to rethink it another time. LOL   Glad we didn't have the hour drive back and could stay here.  We will probably head out about 11AM since that is when we need to check out.  Not sure if we will go straight home or stop for lunch.  It's nice I don't have to drive.

Luke 9:23-25 (NKJV)  "Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.  For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.  For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?"

What is it that we hold on to and refuse to give up?  Is it that habit?  (whether good or bad or indifferent) Is it emotions?  Is it our choices?  Some times we do things and we don't even think about them anymore, because that is just the way it is.... or so we think.  Some times we are called to 'give up' those things, even for a short while.

I admit, it hasn't been easy, but I have given up scrolling Facebook and Instagram for 40 days for Lent.  And yes, habits die hard.  I don't like to see those little numbers that pop up on that app - and many times I have touched that app - just as I realize that I want to NOT look at Facebook or Instagram - and quickly shut it down again.  And it's only been 4 days!  I know I can do it... but sometimes I do forget until I touch the app.  I tell myself I don't need to scroll and lose hours... and if you look at how many times you open the app and scroll, you will realize that you also lose much time just scrolling.  I think my time is more valuable than that.  I like scrolling just to see what my family or friends are doing, but someone commented recently that they are seeing more 'memes' or other things than they are of what's happening with people.. and I agree.  It made me think about what I was scrolling through  And in reality that was all I was doing - scrolling.  Choosing to rarely 'like' - even though I may have liked the comment, but it's like - 'just move on'.  

Did you choose to give up anything for Lent?  I couldn't decide if I wanted to do BBCD, or give up specific food.... sometimes it is difficult to keep that mindset when you have others around.  I have done it, but since I wasn't 'raised' to give up things for Lent, I don't think of it that much.  But sometimes, I just want to do something.... partly to give it up and turn my thoughts to Jesus more, which is the reason I do it, and partly - in all honestly - is to make sure that I don't value that 'thing' or 'food' more than anything else.  

I want my thoughts to be on Jesus; I want to reflect Him always in my life.  To do that, I must make Him central.  I don't always have to talk about Him to others, but if they can see Jesus in me, in my life, especially those who know me well, I am successful in my endeavor.

Are you reflecting Jesus in your life?  Would your friends and/or family say that Jesus is number uno in your life?  Something to think about.

Blessings!

How could I forget?

 My headache was all over the place yesterday and hubby and I both talked about our daughter-in-law who has severe migraines and how the weather must be affecting her.  Praying for relief for her, for sure.  But my headache was more of a draining on me yesterday.  In spite of taking things to calm it down, it just seemed I got more and more exhausted to where I nearly fell asleep in my chair!  And I wanted to fall asleep... but had so much work to do, I tried to keep plugging away.

When my work time finally ended, I started to shut down, but was waiting on one more response to an email so just closed the lid, intending to check again later.  I go sit down on the couch and hubby comments...."Just think, you don't have to get up early in the morning."  I look at him like he is from another world and say "what are you talking about? It's Friday, a work day, my boss is off, but I'm not."  And then he asks... "Isn't the women's retreat this weekend?"

Wow. I hadn't thought about it for a few days and yes, it is this weekend, and yes, I am off work today.  But I still have some pressing work to do so will jump online a bit this morning in the hopes the emails will have been responded to and I can close out the week.  I did put an 'out of office' message on so any future emails they know I'm off.  Totally forgot.  Hubby had taken me to a Mexican restaurant we found a short distance away for lunch so neither of us was really hungry.  He had a TV dinner and I fixed a sandwich - and we watched a movie.  He asked if I was up to a second movie but I felt completely drained and exhausted.  I read a little bit before finally putting the book down and said I had to go to bed.  I slept good most of the night - hubby's snoring kept waking me up (and he talks about my snoring waking him up!) so I finally rolled out of bed at my usual 4AM.  I tried to go back to sleep here, but could not.  It may be a long day.

So, yes, I am off work today other than checking for messages that I was waiting for yesterday.  I will need to pack this morning, but it is just overnight so don't need much.  Clean underwear anyway and my jammies.  And my Bible. And my computer.  And my blankie to curl up in cause the hotel rooms are always chilly.  I am having my daughter pick me up about 1PM and we'll do the drive over and then grab a late lunch and then check in to the hotel. Grateful my daughter is going with me to the retreat.  She always makes sure I am taken care of when she is with me.  Might be able to read for a bit before heading over to the church where the retreat is.  I hope to finish this one book this weekend.  My headache has waned some after taking Ibuprofen... but it is still centered right smack dab in the middle between my eyes.  I hope to keep it at bay this weekend so that I can enjoy it.  

Chatted with my three remaining siblings this week.  Two by phone, one by text.  My little sister has become subdued somewhat...not sure what is going on.  Since I told her she needed to let go of the drama surrounding her best friend's death and the family issues, she has, but seems distant.  Interesting.  My little brother is nearly completely healed from a fall he had taken several weeks ago now, rescuing his aged dog from the lake waters where he had fallen.  He still has some problems (my brother, not the dog), but is doing much better and the infection in his leg seems to be just about gone.  My big brother is doing well on this new diabetic thing that has come out.  It escapes my mind now on what it is called, but it is something placed on the body - I'm sure you have seen the commercials - and you just touch it and it sends insulin to your body or something like that.  I didn't know, but he said he used to take 3-5 shots a day (I think he has been a diabetic for 45 years) and his A1c has now dropped to 115.  I don't understand all the numbers but I know I watch mine when I get a blood test - always am 95-98 or 5.6 which they say is pre-diabetic.... I know it is in my family (my brothers) and a son and daughter have it as well... but I have somewhat an anxiety I would have to take shots if I 'got' it.  And with hearing the side effects from pill medication from both my son and daughter - I think I would pass on that too.  But for now, other than that, I think all are doing well.  

"Keep reminding yourself that you live in a world that is groaning, waiting for redemption, but remind yourself also that the cross guarantees that the groaning will someday end."  Journey to the Cross by Paul David Tripp.

Permit yourself to groan; you have valid reasons to do so. Give yourself to seasons of groaning; it is spiritually healthy to do so. And as you groan, remember that your Lord hears your groaning and responds with tender loving care.  We most often groan when we don't get our way, don't we?  But sometimes it is ok to 'moan and groan' when things don't go our way.  Sometimes we make things worse with our groaning (remember all the times our children would moan and groan because they were asked/told to do something?) and sometimes it is just ok to do so.

But what do we do with that groaning?  Do we just sit back and moan and groan about our lot in life?  Our health? Our finances?  Or do we decide to do something about it?  Sometimes God allows us to groan and He provides what we need.... but sometimes, don't you agree, our groaning is self-centered?  I know how much I have groaned over the years on here!  Things not going my way; things not happening the way I want them to, etc.  We all seem to do it - I just publicize mine on here.

And sometimes in my groaning (and in yours), God listens and He steps in and either opens our eyes to the truth of our groaning or helps us to see His hand in it.  For example... I groan all the time about my weight, right?  Every time I look in the mirror I groan.  But I still head for the chocolate dish.  Or the handful of nuts.  Or bread. Or ice cream.  And if I can sneak it (I can't believe I did it again the other day!) in to my room without being caught (if I do that, does it still count as cheating?)  it shouldn't count at all, right?  I don't enjoy my 'cheat' any more than if I ate it out in the open.  And it definitely isn't helping my waistline.  So I groan... but what am I personally doing about it?  I can pray all I want about my health, but unless I start eating the way I should and take responsibility for what I put in it, I have no reason to groan.

But if I groan over the behavior of my children or grandchildren, and bring those before the Lord, I know that He hears me and although they are the ones causing my groaning, it affects me, it affects others.  But the Lord hears and although He will allow them to do whatever they choose, He will also give them opportunities to step back and say 'no'.  And that is not a bad thing... it gives them a conscious choice.  And the more we say 'no' to destructive behavior, the more we become the person God created us to be.

I need to get moving this morning; I'm sure hubby will want to take me out to breakfast ... and I still have to pack... but still have plenty of time.  And I need to get on the work computer too and check for the message I need.  They just can't do without me.  HAH!  Hope that you have an awesome day!  Pray for a good weekend for me and my daughter... that the weekend session will truly be one that 'changes everything'.

Blessings!

I am 'on schedule'..

 I ended up being gone all afternoon yesterday.  I asked hubby to drive me to the eye specialist's office downtown as he has been there frequently; me only twice in the past ten years.  I completed pages and pages of paperwork (it felt like) and finally was called back to the office.  They did one test then another and then yet another.  Finally got in to see Dr. Z.  He's a good man and we knew him before he married, and had two girls.  I always ask about his girls when I go in - I think the oldest is 6 or 7 now.  The other is 5 or 6... yeah, real close together.  

Anyway... he says to me, "We'll do the left eye first."  Wait, what?  I didn't know I had a cataract in the left eye!  He says, "yeah, you have in both eyes; the left is the worst."  Seriously?  It has always felt the right eye always gave me my difficulty in seeing/reading.  Well, he said he can do the right eye first - and began to explain that I will still need to wear glasses as I have an astigmatism in the right eye.  I told him I wasn't having cataract surgery to remove my need to wear glasses; I was getting it done to see better through my glasses.  Not that I wear my glasses a lot.  I have to wear reading (magnifying) glasses for reading, but my prescription glasses I wear for mainly distance when driving or watching movies.  Some people are fortunate and don't need glasses after cataract surgery.  I'm not looking to get rid of them; just to see better through them.

So we scheduled the right eye for March 16th.  They could have done it March 2nd, but I need to mentally prepare for someone messing with my eyes... and I have two meetings coming up that I need to order meals for and don't want them on my mind.  Surprisingly, they said I'd only need to probably take one day off work.... I do need to go all the way back downtown the second day for a check up, and another check up in a month and then six months, I think he said... but figure I'll just work around my work and save my vacation day.  I can schedule my left eye in April or May, which I probably will.  According to my insurance, costs will be around $1800... not including anesthesia and facility, of course.... and I have $1600 deductible... so why not go ahead and get both done this year ... at least on the second one, the insurance will pay more. And I only have to pay the deductible once.  Best part?  The doctor said the cataracts will never come back.  

We didn't get out of the the office until a bit over an hour later... and since I hadn't snacked or eaten... suggested we grab something to eat on the way home.  I wasn't going to get back on the computer for work on normal work hours  Hubby has only one thought.  Food.  We stopped at Oregano's and it was oh so good.  Hubby got some type of shrimp spaghetti dish - don't know what they called it - but what caught my eye was a special they had - chicken parm pizza thin crust.  I've gotten to where I prefer the thin crust to a thick crust.  It seems to have more flavor.  I ate at least half of the pizza; hubby did eat one piece.  The rest I brought home and then took over to Ms. Diane.  I would get that pizza again - it was really good and Lindsay, our server, was very attentive and very good.  Going between 3-4PM helps too - very few people there; by the time we left about an hour later, it was nearly packed with the dinner crowd.  

I read some last night in the new book I got recently The Power to Change by Craig Groeschel.  It is actually very interesting.  I went to bed thinking about it, and woke up this morning thinking about that section I read.  What was so interesting about it?  He talked about being 'in training'.  He started jujitsu at age 52.  Not fully understanding, after a short time, he started challenging others to do a round with him (can't think what he called it).  He said that each time he was a winner, even though they bashed his head in, his body was like pulp.  Why did he declare himself a winner in spite of losing each round?  Because he never quit.  He didn't give up.  He went back.  He kept challenging, even though he kept losing.  Because he told himself he was "in training".  

I thought about my life and things I feel I failed in.  Some I went back to; some I chose to avoid because of my sense of failure.  None of us are perfect.  I was in training, and didn't realize it.  I was training to be a wife.  I was training to be a mom.  I was training to be a student. I was training to be a good employee.  I am 'in training' as long as I pursue being those things.  And I am in training to be as close to God as I can be....even though I fail at times... I keep getting up and trying again.  I haven't always been a good wife, a good mom, a good student, a good employee... but it's when I pick myself up and try again... stay in training.... that is when I learn how to be better.  I don't quit.  I don't give up.  I am constantly 'in training'.  And you are too.

Craig gave examples which amused me, to say the least.  "Say no to that donut because you are 'in training'."  So you missed a month at the gym; go back anyway you are 'in training'.  (ok, so that one hit harder)  But the point is - never quit.  Tell yourself you are 'in training' and just keep going back to what ever it is that you feel you do not have success in.  Dieting? Watching certain foods?  Craig shared about downing Mtn Dew daily..... but because he was 'in training' to get a healthier and better fit body, he chose to give it up.  He still may enjoy a glass occasionally.... but he doesn't down them like he did before.  I like saying "I'm in training" so it is easier to say no.

Well, that was weird.  My eyes were watering (as they do in the mornings as I'm doing my quiet time)... and I used a kleenex to touch my eyes to drain the tears ... and it was YELLOW.  It's that stuff they dropped in my eyes yesterday afternoon!  Interesting.  When they dropped it in, it didn't dribble out like it normally does - and I was surprised to see it this morning!  Huh.  Guess it's gone now.

Don't give up just because you fail.  Pick yourself up and go back to what you failed at.  Keep trying.  Keep pushing.  Stay in training.  Some of us will be in training all our lives.  It's ok.  Stay in training.

Blessings!

What is going on with my head?

 About 4PM yesterday I started seeing the bright line that blocked part of my view.  My head didn't hurt, but remembrances of years ago knew it may come.  After about 15-20 minutes, the jagged bright line  disappeared.  I took an Excedrin and all was ok for awhile; I just had the dullness of a headache lingering on.  I took another pill as I went to bed.  I guess the 'caffeine' in the pain pill was too much at night.. for some unknown reason I could not sleep.  I think I tossed and turned all night long, finally getting up at 3:30AM and trying to get some sleep here in my chair.  I don't think it worked either.  So here I am... still groggy, and my time is running out for me to start work.  And my head is still somewhat achy.

But today will be a short day.  I am taking off at 12:30PM today as I do have a pre-opt appointment with my eye specialist downtown to see about getting a cataract removed.  I'm also going to mention to him the jagged line I had last night in the right eye.  May not be related, but doesn't hurt to ask.  When one has not had a migraine in over 20 years and now I've had perhaps two within the last three months... it is a little unnerving.

Hubby assured me that rain was not in the forecast for our area last night.  HAH!  I have told him before he cannot rely on news casts or even what show up on his phone!  We had rain this morning and it was a downpour.  In fact, I wondered if another water pipe had burst for awhile.... but when I turned my computer on, it has the weather at the bottom and it has - even now - 'rain to stop'.  Really?  I checked my phone and it has 'rain to stop in 17 minutes'.  Don't you just love predictions?  I believe the rain has now stopped but the wind is still blowing quite fierce.

Today is Ash Wednesday and I still haven't made a firm decision on what I will give up for lent - if anything.  I did remember to start my 40 day Lenten book Journey to the Cross.  This is my third year of reading it during this season and I still get a lot out of it.  One of my thoughts of what to give up was to stay off Facebook.  Very few, if any, of my family and friends post on there anymore.  And I will admit, the past week or so I have found myself scrolling - and losing a hour of my precious time by doing so.  It wouldn't hurt to NOT scroll.  I only keep it as contact with friends and family.  Maybe by end of day I will have a decision of what I feel I need to give up.  

And it isn't an easy decision.  For what I give up isn't 'just to give it up', but to have whatever it is make me think of the sacrifice that Jesus made for me. And for you.   I'd love to give up television... but you know how hubby is with his daily shows.  Oh.... can I tell you something that really amused me yesterday?  I'm not being mean... I just thought it was funny.

Hubby comes to me about 11AM or so and says "I only got 4-5 hours sleep last night (according to Fitbit, which I've told him time and again it is not accurate) so I'm going to turn on the TV, put on my headset, and try to sleep for about 45 minutes."  I just looked at him.  About two hours later he comes back in here and says "I couldn't sleep, I don't know what is wrong."  I told him "Well, you usually go sit down at 1:30PM, fall asleep by 2PM and are out for a good two hours most days. Maybe it was too early."  Now was I being a smart aleck?  I don't think so.  He just nodded and said "well, I guess you are right."  All i can do is shake my head.

Psalm 51:1-2 (NKJV):  "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions.  Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin."

 King David wrote the above psalm after he was confronted by the prophet Nathan about his sin with Bathsheba.  But we also have our own sins that we try to keep secret, don't we.  Yeah, not a question.  But the thing is, God sees and knows all.  What is it that we need to confess as we read that scripture today?  Better yet, pick up your Bible - or go to www.BibleGateway.com and look up Psalm 51.  Read it all the way through.  Ponder the words.  Meditate on them.  Is there anything that you need to confess to God and seek His forgiveness for?

Psalm 139:1-3 (NKJV):  "O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways."

Take a moment and let God search your heart.... is there something you need to tell Him about?  He knows it anyway, but sometimes it helps process it through when you share it with Him.  Tell Him about your struggles.  Share with Him about your pain.  

He is your Friend, and He cares for you.

I Peter 5:7 "casting all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you."

No one can ever love and care for you like Jesus.  He is your best friend.  Talk with Him; He's waiting and listening.

Blessings!

Another headache; another storm moving in.....

 You know, I'm getting really tired of waking up with my head hurting!  Although part of it may be the storm that is brewing, some may be that I didn't sleep well - and I'm not sure why.  We went to bed at a little before our usual time, I guess, and it took me a little while to fall asleep.  Then at 10 something I woke up and started my tossing and turning, dozing off and on.  When awake, I'd pray.  So I think people (including my children) were prayed for numerous times last night.  Which is always a good thing.  I'd ask God when I was awake "who am I to be praying for that You keep waking me up?'  And then I'd start all over.  So when I finally arose at 4AM, my head was hurting (and still is) and I'm tired.  But that's part of praying for others.  Sometimes I may get a specific name; other times it is just a general sense to pray.  I don't mind those times at all.

I ordered a new book this morning already.  Fire on the Family Altar by Cheryl Sacks.  It is just now coming out.  I have known Cheryl for probably 30 years and have been involved in the Bridgebuilders for years.  I support them occasionally financially.  So I was not surprised to get an email from her this morning sharing about her book.  I read the portion she had included of the first chapter.  It is going to be a great book!  Actually, she had copies of her book about 6 weeks ago and I almost got a copy... but her permission to open the box didn't come until after I left that building.  We need to go back to family altars and families praying together.  I'm interested in reading it and went to amazon and got it ordered.  Should be here tomorrow.  whoo hoo!  

Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday and that means 40 days until Palm Sunday.  Preparation for Easter and Passion Week.  Easter isn't all about Easter bunnies and little chicks and colorful eggs... and chocolate... but that is what we have made it.  We need to go back to getting our focus on the REASON Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, and Easter are all about!  I have sometimes fasted during these 40 days .... and I still may, but I'm not sure what I want to do.  Since it starts tomorrow, I reckon I need to figure it out, huh! 

One disastrous, yet beneficial, thought occurred to me.  Actually, a couple did, but I know that hubby would not go for one of them at all.   I could do my BBCD fast.... I've done it often enough that I can do it without much grumbling.  And that is probably what I will end up with.  But other thoughts I had were..... no eating out for 40 days (could you even imagine hubby not eating out for this length of time?).... here's one I thought of and I think have discarded it easily enough.... no shopping for 40 days.  Other than groceries.  I'm thinking no shopping for books (going shopping doesn't do anything for me) for 40 days.  I don't know that I can do that.  That would be a hard one for me.  But maybe I ought to try.

The purpose of a fast is to put your attention on Jesus and off of our wants.   Within a fast one can ask (sometimes desperately) for salvation of someone, healing of someone.... when we put Jesus first, He listens.  I don't know what I will do just yet... may do something for a few days... may not.... I'm asking God what does He want me to do.  He may or may not answer me specifically, but leave it up to me - what do I want to give up for Him?  Ah... the big question.  Not to do it in obedience to Him, but to do it because I want to.  What shall I do?  What shall I choose?  I always have to contend with hubby... he usually doesn't want to join me in this fast.  He will do the first of the year, but this one, not so much.

Which reminds me, there is a book I like to read these 40 days and I need to pull it off the bookcase and put it in here.  Journey to the Cross by Paul David Tripp.  I know I have shared things over the years as I read it, and I probably will this time as well.  Actually, I think I have only had it two years.  But what a remarkable and thoughtful book.

Hubby is meeting a friend for breakfast this morning.  They don't have Bible study today.  Still don't know why he didn't go last week; it wasn't because it was Valentine's day.  As soon as he leaves, I'm hoping to throw in a load of my laundry.  tee hee.  Hopefully I can get it done before he gets back again.  If not, he will be moaning and groaning about having to do laundry.  LOL  I can do mine; he just won't 'let' me so I sneak and do it when he isn't home.

I decided to take Friday off work since I have the women's conference in Gilbert this Friday evening.  I have to take off work early tomorrow for my pre-opt appointment with the eye doctor, so hated to take off early on Friday as well.  So just took the entire day off.  Figure breakfast with hubby will keep him happy; then I can leave around 1PM and head over; grab lunch, check in the hotel at 3PM and get settled in before meeting my friends at the church at 5PM.  So glad I'm staying at the hotel.  I saw the total bill yesterday and kept telling myself "I'm worth it, I'm worth it".

Oh, did I tell you that I finally shared with hubby my thoughts about moving things around?  He actually was ok with it and Saturday morning he asked if I wanted to move the one recliner in to is office that I want part to be a 'reading area'.  We moved it, but I don't like it there.  I think two recliners in that area crowds the room.  So I'm thinking of moving my unused treadmill in to the garage and then move that specific recliner in to the back room and get started on making that my prayer room. Or quiet room. Or early morning room.  Whatever one wants to call it.  There are so many distractions in here and if we have company, I get moved out anyway....  He seemed to be ok with my thoughts... but some things I want to do without him, figure out how I want things, etc.  Let him see the end result and not be part of it.  Make sense?  Now if I had moved that recliner by myself and saw it didn't fit well, I would have moved it right back where it was.  But, it is still where we moved it.  Eventually I will get things figured out.

Whoops - just knocked my coffee cup off the table - grateful I had just emptied it!  I was looking at it thinking I may need another cup this morning to help this headache... and I'm not sure what I did, but knocked it off.  Oh well.

And, I'm rambling about nothing now.... are you even still reading this?  Perhaps in hopes of finding a treasure?  My head hurts so you get what you get today..... sorry.   But I will leave you with this....

John 3:16 (NKJV):  "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."

Believe in Jesus, the only begotten Son of God.  Choose life.

Blessings!

I still gotta work today....

Today is President's Day but I still have to work.  Timecard Monday too - but it isn't near as crazy as it used to be.  All I have now to approve are salaried so just need to make sure they put in for their time off.  Most will go ahead and approve their timecard first; but there are still a few who don't so I have to check and then approve.

Yesterday was a lazy day after church. I took a bit over 2 hour 'nap' - (was I really that tired?) and then we had leftovers for dinner; watched a movie and then read some.  So now I beat myself up because I was lazy... didn't think I'd sleep much last night because of my long deep nap, but I did.  Was startled when my watch started the alarm at 4AM.  Turned it off and wanted to go back to sleep... but made myself get up before I did.  And although I did consider going back to sleep in here, I did not.  I must quit being so lazy.  My mind tells me of things I need to do... but the body just doesn't follow.

I got a new book this weekend and it is very thought-provoking.  I may share some things from time to time in here.  It's called The Power to Change.  Mastering the Habits that Matter Most by Craig Groeschel.  In this book he talks about why we do what we do.  And it is interesting to note that What we do is what we think of ourselves.

Yeah, some of the things I've already read have hit home.  I was told I was stupid growing up.  I was told I wasn't smart enough to go to college. It was always implied I was only good for getting married and having babies.  I wasn't good enough or smart enough for anything else.  

And that is why we need desperately to tell our children that they have value.  That they are smart. That they can achieve whatever they want.

Because the words we hear, define who we say we are.  Tell a person they are stupid often enough and they will believe you.  It will affect them at school. It will affect their habits.  It will affect how they relate to other people. It will affect them all their life.

But we if build them up, telling them they have great value. Telling them they are smart. Telling them they can achieve great things - it also will affect them all their lives.  

They believe what they hear from those who are in authority.  As their parent or teacher or leader, they believe you.  So the question is... what are we feeding those we love?

As mentioned above, I was never encouraged to excel. I was told I was stupid. Now I know I'm not stupid (although I have done a lot of stupid things), but I have struggled with learning new things all my life.  That is probably one reason I struggle so greatly with learning new computer programs... and this year I have to 'attack' Visio and become an expert of sorts.  I.Don't.Wanna.  For one, I'll never use it again when I'm not working (so I tell myself).  I don't want to learn it.  But I have to use it in my job and right now I'm only getting by with it.  I rarely use it.  So I struggle with the ability to learn something new, instead of looking forward to it with excitement.  I buy the 'for dummies' books with hopes of learning these computer programs, only to throw them away after a few years.  They may or may not have even been opened. 

I haven't gotten very far in this book, but it is very interesting and I see myself (and others) in some of the chapters.  I remember a school that made a difference in my daughter's life was in the 5th grade, I think it was... for a short while she attended this one school and the schools slogan was "I can".  You were not 'allowed' to use 'I can't' in a sentence.  They encouraged everyone to believe that they could do anything they want3ed to do.  The reason I even know about it is that my daughter had shared that one thing with me.  I really believe it made a big difference in her life.

If more of us were taught 'I can' versus 'whatever' or 'I can't', we all would have more productive and positive lives.  Reading this books really brings that to life.  Some principles it touches on....

To experience change that lasts, focus on the who, not the do.  (Isaiah 43:19 NLT) "For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness, I will create rivers in the dry wasteland."

Who we are - our character - shapes our thoughts about ourselves and others. What we think is a reflection of who we are.

You do what you do because of what you think of you.  (Mark 10:27 NLT) "Jesus looked at them intently and said, "Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But not with God. Everything is possible with God."

To change what you do, you need to first change what you think of you.  (Romans 12:2 NLT) "Let God transform you into a new person by change the way you think.

These are but a few things identified in the first chapter.  What I think about myself is how I behave, what my characteristics are, what I do.  

We.Can.Change.   But we have to want that change.  You can go to numerous 'intakes' for things, but unless you really want to change..... they will not do a thing for you.  True, it may be difficult in some cases, but God gives us the strength to get through the hard parts.  

How bad do we want to change?  God can make us new when we ask Him to.  He can bring the rivers of life to our dry wasteland.  But we have to ask Him; He will not force us to do anything we do not want to do.  

I know what I was, and what I was becoming.  It took my wanting to change, and accepting Jesus as Lord of my life, before those changes would stick.  I continuously asked for His help.  And I still do.  I'm not perfect by any means.  I still fail.  I will never be perfect.  

But because of Jesus, when I confess to Him, He gives me exactly what I need, and even more than that, He gives me grace.  Grace that I don't deserve.  And you don't either.  It isn't something we can earn, it is something He gives freely when we turn to Him.  Such beautiful grace.

What do you think of yourself?  Why not make the decision to become the best version of who God created you to be?  Don't settle for what you think you have become because of your choices.  

You were made for something greater.  Choose to believe in yourself today.  You are worth it.

Blessings!

I made the rounds....

 I was able to get out of the house for a little bit yesterday and made the 'rounds' of dropping off some potato salad and potato soup to a couple of my children.  I was disappointed... yes, I'm just going to say it... to find out that when I made my first stop.... that when I said I was 'on my way over'.... my child LEFT the house!  He let something else be more important than seeing his mother!   But his beautiful wife and youngest son did visit with me some, although I don't recall if the youngest even spoke words... I think he was woken up.... He is the quietest of all his family and sleeps the hardest, I think!  :-)  

After making the 'rounds', I came back home and went over to see Ms. Vicki for a few minutes, then came back home.  Didn't stay and visit long.  I was going to see Ms. Diane, but her daughter was already there and she doesn't need a 'visitor' if someone is already there, so didn't go.  Will see if she is alone after we get out of church today.

Yep - heading to our own church this morning - and they have changed the time to 10AM versus 9AM so we won't be first in line at the restaurants anymore. LOL I think hubby really liked that part. :-)  He does love his food.  he wanted to go out to breakfast yesterday - I suggested we go to Einstein's for something different and he was ok with that.  So we went... and got what was called the 'Farmhouse' sandwich.  It is one egg, ham, and cheese and is usually served wrapped in hash browns but we opted for a bagel instead. It really was good... coffee was even better.  I mixed the dark dark coffee with the vanilla hazelnut and it had a rich flavor. So good, but I couldn't even get through the small cup I had!  I already had 12 ounces at home.  Plus we had orange juice.  Still all that came to $26..... which hubby did comment was still less than what we would have bought at a restaurant.  Breakfasts are not my favorite meals... I can handle only so many eggs...  but can eat them too.... they can get boring unless you 'shake them up' in different things.  I should stop here and go fix hubby breakfast... but... my head is hurting again this morning so may take my time...maybe he will eat cereal. ;-)   Or, If I will get my butt moving and get dressed for church, maybe just go and have a bagel and a good cup of coffee before church...... 

I had a really strange dream last night and I'm not going to go in to it... I have no idea where it could have come from...  but was awakened from it with my alarm going off this morning.  I hate it when a good dream is ruined by the alarm, don't you?  I don't remember much about the dream either, so can't really write it down to ponder what it was about.... I just remember I was happy.  So I'm guessing it was a good dream.

I Peter 5:5-11 (NKJV):  "Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.  Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, cashing all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Did you catch that?  Submit to God, Resist the devil.  The ole devil will do all he can to make the world attractive to you.   He will make things look brighter, look better.  But in the end, they really aren't.  When you follow the devil,, you may think things are looking good... but the devil is like a roaring lion wanting to devour you with the things he entices you with.

But God.  He only wants the best for you.  If you are a Jesus-Follower, and obey Him, you will have troubles, that is a given, but when you get past those troubles, you will be perfected and established, and strengthened in His might.  So put on the Armor of God and keep your mind and body focused on the only One who can keep you.

Jesus is the only answer.  Jesus is the only way.

Blessings!

The thoughts keep coming!

 This morning, during my readings, I had lots of thoughts that popped into my mind to share and elaborate on here this morning - imagine that!  I'm sure you wish that I would quit rambling about my personal life and write things of more value... but then, you do keep coming back here to read so guess anything is ok... right?

I awoke a little after 5AM this morning (we did go to bed a little later last night) with a big headache.  UGH.  But I took an Ibuprofen and now it feels like it is nearly gone.  I think the strong coffee helped too.  Maybe I was just having a caffeine withdrawal?  I used to drink coffee all day long...pot after pot... seriously.  Now I drink one cup (about 12 ounces, so more than one cup) early in the morning and sometimes another flavored kind in the afternoon.   I occasionally drink my green tea - of which I should drink more.  I also try to drink my water... which I have really failed at lately.  Summertime I can get nearly a gallon down every day... but in these cooler days I do good to get 1/2 a gallon in - if that.  I know you just needed to have that information.

I used up my potatoes yesterday... I had bought a big bag a week or so ago and knew I needed to use them up or throw them away in another week or so.  What did I make with them?  Potato Salad and Potato Soup.  And yes, Ralphd00d, I have a container of potato salad put back for you.  I'm hoping to run it by your place sometime this afternoon.  We have a memorial service to attend at 3PM at our former church so will see if I can get hubby to swing by after.  Yes, I'll keep it cooled. :-)  

I took some potato soup over to Ms. Vicki yesterday afternoon and sat and visited with her some.  I tell you what, it definitely was ALL GOD that I was there.  That is the first time I have gone and stayed for a visit.  Within ten minutes or so, she got a phone call from a friend.  I could hear intense emotions coming from the phone and Ms. Vicki covered her eyes with her hand.  I knew the news wasn't good, especially when I heard the word 'hospital' over the phone.  When she hung up, Ms. Vicki explained... a friend's husband had been in the hospital to get stents in his heart - age 74 - and coded. Has been in a coma for two days... the friend had been called by the hospital to hurry if she wanted to say goodbye to him as he didn't have much time left. She was on her way to the hospital.  Ms. Vicki was obviously upset, so I asked if I could pray with her.... and did.  And then I told her that God had brought me there for this moment to be with her when she got this news, that I could pray with her.  What a good, good Heavenly Father we have!  Ms. Vicki lives alone; she would have had no one to help her with this troubling news if I had not been there.  See how good He is?

Perhaps that is why a couple paragraphs that I read in A Shepherd looks at the 23rd Psalm this morning stood out to me:

"As Christians we will sooner or later discover that it is in the valleys of our lives that we find refreshment from God Himself. It is not until we have walked with Him through some very deep troubles that we discover He can lead us to find our refreshment in Him right there in the midst of our difficulty. We are thrilled beyond words when there comes restoration of our souls and spirits from His own gracious Spirit"

"The simple fact is that just as water can only flow in a ditch or channel or valley - so in the Christian career the life of God can only flow in blessing thorough the valleys that have been carved and cut into our lives by excruciating experiences."

Sometimes our darkest moments come and we feel so alone, unable to think or move.  It may be the death of a loved one. It may be troubling times.  It may be things coming against us and we don't understand why.  But when we turn our hearts and minds to Jesus, and allow Him to minister to us, we can be overcome with His favor, His grace, His peace.  Oh why does it take us so long to turn to Him?!

I love seeing the videos of the Asbury Revival that is going on right now.  I think this is day 9 or 10.  Continuous worship; students from this university and people from all over are going to experience the Presence of God in the chapels on this campus.  I heard that it has also started at a couple other university campus - but do not know for a fact.  Oh that the Presence of God will flow over the United States and bring people to their knees once again!  People are crying out for repentance; people are being healed; the Holy Spirit is falling upon people; oh that we would seek Him in all His glory!

There is worshipper by the name of Kari Jobe - you have heard of her if you hear Christian music at all as she has written and sung several songs.  I saw a video that she made as she drove to the university where the Visitation is happening and she said "It is real, what is happening.  It isn't made up; God's Presence is here."  But have you noticed that it isn't making the national news?  Why is that?

Instead what are they showing on the news?  The man who was stripped to his underwear running across the 16th hole at the Phoenix Open.  The news is giving him what he wanted.... exposure (literally) and who bailed him out of jail? An underwear company (they didn't say which one).  And this is news?  Who really cares someone was that stupid and disrespectful?  Even hubby made the comment when it came on "why is this news?".

Why not share about the goodness of God?  Why not talk about revival happening?  And it is happening!  My prayer is that it will continue to grow; that we will all get on our faces before God and cry out to Him for revival and for a visitation of the Holy Spirit.  There is nothing like it, and when you experience His Presence, you will never be the same.  

Here is a comment I found about a revival:  ".....I broke down crying because I felt the presence of God so powerfully that it was all I could do. And I didn't receive any special anointing or any exciting message or vision. I remember word for word what I heard from God in that moment, and all He said was "I am here because you asked me to be here." That was it. I felt like the 1 sheep of the 99 because out of an entire group of people praying, He took time to come to me and say the only thing I really needed to hear in that moment."

There is also a story going around that the Prophet Seer Bob Jones, who has since passed away, I think, once said that "When the Kansas City Chiefs win the Super Bowl, revival will break out." Now the Kansas City Chiefs won the Super Bowl in 2020  and we didn't hear of anything....yet, here we are with a revival happening in Kentucky.  Glory be!

Oh, that we would turn our hearts to Him and allow Him to flood us with His goodness!

Where do you stand with Jesus? Are you the '1 of the 99' of the sheep that went astray? Do you know the Good Shepherd is searching for you? Ah, yes, He does know where you are, but He is longing for you to come out of hiding and run in to His arms.  Will you?  If you will, your life will never be the same.  Run!

Blessings!

My nails look gorgeous!

 Yes, I did go and get my nails done with my daughter and granddaughter last night.  I actually arrived before they did and had already a good start on my nails before they got there.  You know I prefer getting anywhere at least 10 minutes before my appointment. :-)  They opted to also get pedicures, but because I hadn't talked to either of them about it all week, I didn't know they had planned it. No problem, I could have gotten it done too as there were people available to do it, but I opted out.  I hadn't brought flip flops or sandals so was ok with not doing it.  But my nails look great!  I just have to learn to type again because I'm used to my fingers hitting the keys and now my nails are getting in the way.  Not that they are long, but they are longer than they were; but they do look so nice!  Came home after that and of course I had to fix dinner cause hubby was still sitting and watching TV.

I did have a great time sitting and chatting with my granddaughter after our nails were done.  For some reason the person doing my daughter's nails was r-e-a-l  s-l-o-w.  Seriously.  I had a full set of tips done and he was done in maybe 40 minutes.  I think hers took over an hour.  Anyway, I was able to share a little about my mom and Granny to my granddaughter; about their crocheting/knitting, and she showed me a video she was putting together saying she was a 'fifth generation' crochet-knitter.  They make those videos to move so fast I don't have the ability to read all they write on them!  

Yesterday was a busy day with scheduling meetings and all.  Today will be almost as busy as I had sent out emails regarding other leaders availability, and as I left at 3PM yesterday, I checked when I got back home and I had gotten some responses.  Will be working on those this morning.  So glad today is Friday.  The only thing planned for this weekend that I'm aware of is a memorial service at our former church on Saturday for a friend, and then church on Sunday.  

I do need to get started on typing the message I have left for this season up north.  I have the topic and the scripture...it's just getting it typed up.  Hopefully I can get started on it this weekend.  I've already got the schedule for the 23-24 season.  Five times at one RV park, two times at another.  Hubby, as I mentioned before, 'retired' from speaking at either place.  He always stressed out a lot whenever he was to speak.  And everyone tells him he is a teacher, not a preacher.

Looks like our anniversary vacation plans are made for this year.  Hubby found a cabin in an area we have stayed at before.  It looks really nice, so after getting my approval, hubby put down the deposit and we will be on vacation 8/11 - 8/16.  There isn't much around that area so will need to drive 30 minutes to wherever we go... but plan to get a lot of reading/crochet/knitting done while there.  And a lot of rest. Hopefully some walking, if I can talk hubby in to it.  And as we are going northeast(?) we will be able to meet two of the grandsons and a great-granddaughter halfway so we can see them this year.  Not sure if we saw the boys at all last year, but the great-granddaughter did spend some time with her grandpa so got to see her.

I read a chapter in the book A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 by Phillip Keller this morning and as he shared about sheep (he was a 'real' Shepherd at one time), he shared how much we are like sheep.  Guess that is why Jesus referred to Himself as our Shepherd and we His sheep.  We are really stupid.  Sheep do what they want to do, unless the Shepherd keeps them in line.  As long as they follow a good Shepherd's leading, they will be free of parasites, pests, hunger, and running away.  They will be led to green pastures.  Did you know that a good shepherd keeps an eye on the pastures he takes the sheep to, and when he sees they are devouring too much of the grass (some sheep will even pull the grass up by the roots and that leaves the pastures bare and open to erosion), they will move them to another pasture, sometimes it is after a few days, sometimes it is a weekly thing.  I guess it depends on how many sheep one manages.  But unless you have a good shepherd, you will destroy the pastures; sheep go in continuous paths, which means the ground gets rutted and erosion happens and the sheep, when allowed to stay in the same area, become sickly.  It's really interesting how the shepherd must watch over every aspect of the sheep to make sure they are well fed and taken care of, with amply water supply and free of pests and things that can hurt them.

Psalm 23:3 (NKJV):  "He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake."

When we allow our Good Shepherd to lead us (i.e. Jesus), we will stay on the right path, we will feel His Presence (and that is so wonderful to feel!) and He will never leave us nor forsake us to become overcome with the world.  He keeps our paths straight.  Oh that everyone would follow Jesus and accept Him as Lord!  Your life would never be the same!

Jesus never asks you to give up your lifestyle.  You want to do it willingly to please Him.  When we allow Jesus to fill us with His Holy Spirit, life is never the same.  It may not all be perfect (it usually isn't) and it may not solve all our problems (financial or personal), but you will be at peace when you follow the path He has for you.

Ever wonder why your life is full of strife and troubles?  It's because as a sheep, you are following the wrong shepherd!  Jesus is the Good Shepherd.  He will always lead you in paths of righteousness.  He will always do good to you.  It's when we do things without Him, and do things our own way, and shut Him out of our lives, that we become discontent and without hope.

So where is your hope today?  In the gutter?  Turn to Jesus and seek His face, His love, His forgiveness.  He IS your Hope.  He is all that you need.  He truly is our Great Shepherd, one who loves us more than we can ever imagine.  Choose Jesus as your Shepherd.  He really is a good Shepherd who loves and forgives you when you go astray.  No.matter.what.  You have not done anything that He could not forgive you for.  Follow the Good Shepherd.

Blessings!

Thoughts going through my mind....

 I don't know what is going on with me this morning.... I am so tired ... I'm thinking my Wednesday pill is doing it this time, although it hasn't done it for awhile.  Yesterday was a busy work day, but still.  I got up, reluctantly, at 4AM this morning and even in trying to read my Bible this morning, the eyes kept shutting.  I just feel exhausted.  Probably because all that exercise I have done in my head all week that has not materialized on the outside of the body.  So here it is nearly 6:30AM and I still haven't done much reading, let alone write in here.  I usually start this around 6AM, if not earlier.  Just not motivated today.

Had lunch with my friend yesterday and it was a good time.  I've got it on my calendar to do this once a month so that we can keep in better touch.  She's still struggling since the loss of her husband last November.  It took her a week to clean out his work shed... I think she said he had 17 different size screw drivers!  And she threw out 5 bags of 'trash' - don't know what all was in that.  Guess she is going to put his tools in a yard sale at her sister's house.  One thing for sure, I don't need to get hubby any.  His tools could rust out before he would use them.  And that's all I'll say about that!

Taking off work early today to get my nails done, although I keep flip flopping about cancelling.  It would be nice to have my nails looking decent for a change.  With not working in the office I haven't been worried about it at all... but I do need to start taking better care of myself.  And no, I'm not thinking about getting my hair done just yet.  Stubbornness?  Maybe.  I hadn't been thinking of getting it done before the check.  Not thinking about it now either. :-)  

I have ten minutes before I need to stop and get dressed, turn the work computer on, and I'm drawing a blank as to what to write.  Even no scriptures come to mind.  What's up with that?  Am I really that tired? I went to bed maybe at 9PM...  I was skimming Instagram, which I generally try not to do, last night and saw all the postings about the revival happening at Asbury University in Kentucky.  It was in it's 8th day of continuous worship and praise.  

Wouldn't it be awesome if revival spread like it did in the early 1900's?  Our country could use a revival, for sure!  So many have turned away from God and all that He has for them.  So many have chosen their own path instead of letting God lead them.  I feel that much of it started in my generation, although there are many of us still worshipping God and following Him.  But for some reason, the generation after mine, and the generations after them, have forsaken God.

Even of my grandchildren who were raised in the church and I truly believed they would remain in Christ, have stepped away from the church, and from God.  They don't even think about Him anymore, and it grieves my heart.  My family needs a revival happening - which means I need to be on my face praying and fasting for them.  

Psalm 42:1-2 (NIV):  "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?"

I pray that your heart will begin to thirst for God and to know Him as Lord. Turn your eyes to Jesus, for He alone is the author and perfecter of your faith. He alone is your strength and shield, to Him alone, let your spirit yield. Let Jesus be your heart's desire. May your heart long to worship Him alone.

Blessings!

Special memories of Granny's place....

 I had mentioned a few things I wanted to get done yesterday while hubby was at his Bible Study.... and for an unknown reason.... he decided he wasn't going.  I believe he had told me earlier he had his homework done; I don't know why he didn't want to go.  But he didn't.  And all my plans for while he was gone went out the window.  I can do very little while he is home.  If I hadn't been so busy with work, I would have really been bummed.  And, of course, when I shut my door for a little while for a meeting with my boss....he came running when I opened it and asked 'did you have a meeting? You shut your door.  Who was it with?'  Sigh.  He does need to get a life that doesn't revolve around me.  See why I run away when I can?

I fixed myself a shake for breakfast and wasn't hungry later, but he wanted to take me to KFC ... after all, it was Valentine's day.  So instead of telling him I wasn't hungry... I went and had their chicken sliders or whatever they are called.  They were actually pretty good.  I did try a new and improvised it, recipe for white chicken chili last night and it wasn't bad.  I only had one can of northern beans so also used pinto beans - it was still good.

Oh - guess what I bought myself to try!  I love things that bring back memories.  But there are also things that I just want to do.  I bought myself a small butter churn, and it came yesterday.  It isn't like they used years ago.  It's a glass jar with paddles.  From what I have read of the instructions, you use heavy whipping cream and pour into the glass jar.  Then you turn the paddles for about 15 minutes and voila!  A chunk of butter forms!  You take it out, put in ice water.  The remaining liquid is buttermilk!  You 'massage' the butter in the ice water (oh my freezing hands!) until all the liquid buttermilk is out of it, then pat it into a 'stick'.  You sprinkle salt on the top (if you want), and wrap it up and put in the refrigerator.  It lasts I think they said a week in the refrigerator and a month in the freezer? Don't remember.  I'll have to split it probably cause we don't use that much butter.  I just wanted to do it myself!  

I can remember helping 'Aunt Margarine' churn butter at Granny's place.  Although she lived there too, the old farmhouse will always be 'Granny's' in my mind.  We churned butter in a large wooden churn with a pole.... we used fresh milk from the cows.  Oh the memories there - we milked cows, fed the chickens, gathered the eggs, fed the hogs, rode the mule... oh those were great times.  I can remember even picking up potatoes as they were plowed up in the field.   They were growing alfalfa in the field the last time I rode 'old Matt', the mule.  Little Mike was in front of me, and we both were riding him.  Bareback.  Well, ole Matt decided he wanted some alfalfa so went over to the field and it had a couple feet incline... he reached up and knelt down to get the alfalfa, and little Mike and I slid off the back of the mule.... with my little brother landing on top of me and knocking the breath out of me.  I was terrified because I couldn't breathe and walked back to the house.  I never rode old Matt again.

But my favorite thing at Granny's place was the well.  Little Mike and I would run to the well when we got there and drop the bucket down and listen for it to splash when it hit the water.  We would turn the handle on the roller and draw the bucket back up to the top.  We'd grab a cup and drink the sweetest and coldest clear water that you have ever tasted.  Oh the special memories I have of Granny's place!

It's sad that the old homestead that my grandfather built for my grandmother is no longer in the family.  Aunt Margarine (Margaret) lived there with Uncle George and her two boys.  She had three boys, but the oldest one fell into the pond when he was 5, I think it was, and drowned.  One of the boys left home and became a truck driver.  The other was mentally challenged, and although he stayed in the house after both Uncle George and Aunt Margarine passed away, people took advantage of him and long story short, he eventually died.  The other son by this time had moved to Texas and wanted no part of the farm... and it was sold at auction to an Amish couple.  They made the old homestead a chicken roost.  The history left in the house, the antiques, the photos, everything was left... my older brother went by there one time and met the Amish couple.  They sold him a basket full of photos they found, and some bread, I think he said.  It's been a few years since he went back.  But he bought the photo basket... and right on top was a photo of our dad with our mom.  A photo we hadn't seen before.  I don't know how many more photos he found of our 'ancestors'.  Probably not many.  Most we wouldn't know anyway.

Sometimes it is good to remember our past.  And you got all that just by my buying a butter churn for myself.  I remember Aunt Margarine's white coconut cake too!  And I have a piece of paper in with my recipes that I had her give me her recipe for the coconut icing.  It was so good.  Of course I've never made it... but maybe some day I will.  She kept it in a metal cake holder.  Do you remember those?  I'm thinking I need to go 'antique shopping' and look for one - just for memory's sake.  She always had it setting on the top of the long flat freezer in the dining room.  Ah, the dining room table!  It was long, and on the wall side it had benches.... and chairs on the end and other side.  We kids always loved sitting on the bench side.  

There is a story that my mama always told of when Granny was sitting at the end of the table and grace was being said over the food, that mama opened her eyes and saw an angel standing behind Granny, and the angel was looking at Little Mike, sitting on the bench.  Mama always said from that moment on she really believed that Little Mike was going to be a preacher.  Oh it was so far from the truth, wasn't it!  My mama frequently saw angels.

A few days before my youngest brother passed away of a brain aneurysm, he had been living with Mother.  She said one morning he got up from the chair and she was watching him. Two angels appeared and stood next to him on either side, holding him up.  She watched them walk him down the hall to the bathroom.  She always said they had to be 'female' for they let him go into the bathroom by himself, and stood outside the door until he came back out, then each took an arm and walked him back to his chair - and then disappeared.  Mother said she knew at that time that Buddy wasn't going to be with us much longer.  A few days later he got up from his chair, complaining of the 'worst headache he had ever had'... and fell on the floor and died.  The aneurysm had burst.

Oh the memories that have come flooding back just because I bought the butter churn!  I probably ought to copy these memories and print out and put in the safe box... some of my children will remember 'Aunt Margarine' and Uncle George with fond memories.  Perhaps in time, when they read these, their memories of those times will come back to them as well.  Oh - why did we call her Aunt Margarine?  Because when my daughter was little she couldn't say Margaret... she always called her Aunt Margarine, and the name stuck.  Aunt Margarine loved it.

Ah, I have rambled on so this morning, haven't I!  Some memories are good to remember and to share. And with that... I think I will hush for today.  Perhaps you have some special memories that have come to mind... I encourage you, write them down and print them, and put in a safe place.  Some day your children will want to know 'from whence you came' and the memories you had.  Keep the good, let go of the bad.  

Blessings!

It's Valentine's Day...

 but isn't EVERY day supposed to be Valentine's Day? I must admit, in spite of all my complaining and grumbling about hubby, he does try to (most days) make me feel valued.  Shocker?  Well, he does.  If I wanted to be really honest.  He irritates the heck out of me sometimes... but still....

I took yesterday off work - and it felt so good to not be on a schedule.  I was determined I was not going to just sit at home.  I didn't tell hubby until I came out of my room, letting him think that I just decided it.  So I showered and got dressed while he got ready to meet up with his friend for breakfast.  Soon he was gone and I was alone.  What did I get done?

I shredded the pork and poured the BBQ sauce in it and left in crockpot to stay hot.  I washed a load of clothes. I swept and mopped the kitchen floor.  And then I decided that I needed to get out of the house before hubby got back home.  So off I went to Sam's club.  I was going to go to Costco, but they didn't open until 10AM and I wasn't going to wait an hour for them to open.  I went up and down aisles and picked up a few things... other than groceries, I bought a new two tier basket holder to put fruit/veggies in.  Didn't realize how tall it was though... so for now, it is setting on the dining room table; with my cabinets it cannot set there.  I have a thought, and will work on it after hubby leaves for his bible study this morning.

After Sam's club I decided to come back home and unload the groceries, which I did.  Hubby said he just got home and was already on his computer.  I put things away, stirred the BBQ pork, and left again.  This time I dropped off some boxes for a granddaughter who will be moving soon, and then hit a new shopping area that I hadn't been to yet.  I kid you not.  I went to 4 stores and found absolutely nothing I wanted to buy.  By this time I was bored with shopping (after all, I do most of mine online) - and I even went to Barnes and Noble and walked out empty-handed!  I came back home and fixed us BBQ pork sandwiches for dinner.  Oh I had bought us Nutrition One shakes earlier - Sugar Free Butterfinger Meal Replacement Shake.  Oh my goodness, they are so good.  Tastes just like a butterfinger!

We watched the news and then hubby turned the TV off (yay!!).  I finished a book I was currently reading and scrolled through my phone and played my WWF games.  Then it was time for bed.  Hubby must have had a rough day.....he was snoring before I even got there!

So that was my extra day off - and in spite of the fact I got little done, it felt good not having any responsibility.  Oh yeah - I forgot to share.... hubby is always checking the temperature and weather ... so I saw a weather clock while at Sam's Club so I bought it for him and told him it was his Valentine's Day gift.  He then brings me a card.  A nice card.

He just doesn't stop.  Inside the card was a blank check made out to my hairdresser.  When I asked why? He said it was for me to get my hair done; whatever I wanted to have done to it, including the tip.  That would have been very thoughtful had I been mentioning I wanted to get my hair colored, or trimmed... but I had not.  I just haven't done much with my hair lately - i.e., have not been curling it - and my hair is so straight it just hangs there.  Obviously, since it bothers him... he thinks I need to get it done.  He would MUCH prefer I get it cut shorter.  MUCH shorter.  Ok - perhaps I'm reading too much in to the check and the offer to pay for getting my hair done.  He said he wanted to do something different by paying for my haircut.  But I don't plan to get one for awhile yet.  I don't have anything going on... and if my hair isn't bothering me, why do I need to go get it done?  I think I had it cut in what - November or December?  It's only grown out a couple inches!  HAH - could that be it?  It has grown out?  Or is it that my silver had grown out even more?  If I don't care, why should he?  If we go anywhere, I do fix it and make it look nice.  It is a nice gesture.... but I always read into anything about my hair because he comments frequently about it.  Always has, and probably always will.  He prefers short hair.  My rebellion keeps it shoulder length at least. LOL

I'm back to work today and although I cleaned out my messages Saturday morning as I had some things I needed to do, I'm back up to 70+ emails.  Oh well.  Most I can delete as I'm just copied on the majority.  When hubby leaves for his Bible study I'll get another load of my clothes in the washer and perhaps move a chair into another room like I want.  

John 13:34-35 (NKJV):  A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as i have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

I wonder if God knew how hard it would be to love others when He created us?  Since He gave us this verse, or rather commandment, I'm sure He did!  Some people are hard to love!  You know that is a true statement.  We can CARE for them... as I say... but LOVING them?  That is a lot harder!  Most of us know people we care about... but not sure if we can honestly say we love them.  BUT, We are given this new commandment that if we are wanting to be like Jesus and follow in His steps, which is what we are supposed to do..... we are to love others the way we want Him to love us.

That's a hard one, sometimes, you think?  Some people we find easy to love and care for... but others?  Not so much.  But we are told to love them.  We need to find ways to get past the barriers we put up because we don't like an attitude, an action, or just the person themselves... and learn to love them.  Somedays we need to just say in our mind every time a thought of them comes up... "I love that person."  It won't be long that you will begin to believe it.

Perhaps we all should try it more often.  Instead of spending precious energy hating or disliking a person... instead tell yourself "I love .............".  I pray favor upon them, and not evil.  You would be surprised how your day will change, and your attitude.  You may still not LIKE their behavior, but you are being obedient to love them as we want Jesus to love us.

Loving others isn't always easy.  You know a lot of my struggles with different ones.  I often have to verbally tell myself I love them.... and it changes everything.  Try it.  Afterall, today is Valentine's day... a day of 'love'.

Blessings!

Mother, may I?

 I taught my great-granddaughter a new game yesterday and nearly all of us were involved in it!  She was wanting mom to play 'bat mommy' and she was the 'bat baby' while we were sitting outside. After several minutes of that, she played on her monkey stuff.  Still can't think what to call it. It was a beautiful day - the sun was shining and it was nice and warm out.  Hubby and I were sitting in the swing they have (might have to check on getting me one - I really liked it!) while they played.  Soon I was up (and realizing how heavy I've gotten and uncoordinated) and was chasing the little one around too.  Then we played tag.  Then the thought came to me - play Mother, May I?!  The little one hadn't heard of that game so I taught her to play.  Then daddy said he would play with her, then mommy did too and I was the 'Mother'.  We played several times and then Opa called out 'Red Light Green Light' for us all and we played a few rounds of that.  It was fun playing the 'old' games ... never hear them anymore.   The little one sure did love playing them though!

We left about 1:15PM and headed back home, with a stop at the DQ on the way back.  I could not believe hubby got a TRIPLE burger and fries and a shake.  I settled for my turtle pecan cluster blizzard.  He ate it all too!  We got home right at 4PM so after the suitcases and bags were brought in, the TV was on for the super bowl.  I didn't watch much of it but did sit there and finished a blanket.  Hubby watched, and slept, and watched, and slept....  

I still haven't told hubby I'm staying home today... but he will find out soon enough when I don't jump up and turn the computer on pretty soon.  I'll tell him before he leaves for his breakfast.  I really don't have anything planned for today, and probably should save my PTO and work... but nah... I'm taking it off.  I deserve it.  Since he kept me awake last night with his tossing and turning, I've already dozed again this morning.  Starting to wake up really good now.

I put a pork shoulder butt in the crockpot last night and it has cooked all night so the house smells like pork.  I'll be out there soon to take it out of the crockpot, shred it, and put BBQ sauce on it and put back in the crockpot.  I'll have to see how much there actually is after I shred it to see how much I can share.  I plan to make potato soup this week some time too and share.  I do want to make a run to Sam's Club or Costco this morning (while hubby is gone) so that I can 'stroll' through and see if there is anything 'I have to have'.  No, seriously, my main reason is to get some rolls to share with the BBQ pork for sandwiches.  But I can't help it if I see something else.  I need to get bananas too.  

Did you know that I saw on facebook (so it's true).... you can cut a stem off a rose, trim the end, and stick it in a banana, and it will re-root and form another plant?  Which reminds me, I wanted to pick up a couple more rose bushes at Sam's and plant in my courtyard.  I trimmed the three I have back a week or so ago and they are starting to get new leaves.  I don't need them so much to grow tall as I want them to be more bushy so I can enjoy them more.  Thinking I want to run by Home Depot too... oh so many things I want to do ALONE today!  Will see how much I actually GET done!  

I'm not doing too bad on my reading 'challenge'... I think I have 7 books read out of 36 thus far.  Of course they have not been HUGE books, but they aren't small either.  Unless they are really interesting and capture my attention, it may take a week or so to get through them.  There have been some of those that I read in two nights cause I couldn't put them down except when I had to.

It may prove to be a busy week somewhat.  I've already shared what I want to get done today.  Then we're not doing 'girls night out' tomorrow since it is Valentine's day... Wednesday I am having lunch with my 'old' friend Melonie, Thursday afternoon I'm taking off early and heading to the nail salon with my daughter and granddaughter to get our nails done.  I forget what's going on Friday - but maybe nothing.  Saturday is a funeral we need to attend of a dear friend.

I Thessalonians 5:17-18 (NKJV):  "pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

In everything give thanks.  Sometimes it is hard to give thanks when times are tough, isn't it?  A lot of times that rough stuff is because of our own decisions, but sometimes it isn't.  Sickness comes, jobs are taken away, unexpected things happen and then there are the bills that come.... when we don't expect it, things can get really tough.  But Paul says in I Thessalonians 5 that we are to give thanks in EVERYTHING.  I must admit that sometimes I forget to thank God for even the rough patches in my life.  There are things I struggle with, many of my own decisions that weren't the best, and I need to go through the consequences of those decisions.  It's hard to say 'thanks, God' when it's tough times.  But we need to.  Why?  Because that is when we are being taught not to make those choices again.  Right?

Sometimes we don't heed the lessons we should have learned.  But when we get through them, we do need to thank God for those rough times, for it does (sometimes) tend to make us more cautious.  For example, some husbands learn NOT to say some things to their wives to tick them off.  Thank God they have learned it.  My hubby still needs to learn these things - and be thankful he learns them, of course.  Sigh. 

Want to know the thought that just popped in to my mind?  I am THANKFUL to God that I didn't respond.  Not at all.  I kept my mouth shut.  I have 'things' on the bed in here.  A box partially filled to send to my sister (maybe I'll finish filling it up today and ship it...), a couple purses (my big and little one), a couple books, the bag of snacks that I haven't put away from our trip,  and probably some of his things... and he comments last night...."your bed is looking as bad as it did around Christmas time".  I bit my tongue.  I didn't say anything. I kept my mouth shut.  

See, some things just don't need to be responded to... and that was one of them.  And I'm thankful I didn't respond.  

And with that.... I think I will go jump in the shower and get ready to start my day.  Looking forward to not doing anything that I don't want to do today. :-)

Stay Thankful.

Blessings!