It just didn't work out....for me.

 I dilly-dallied with the big tree yesterday - and became so frustrated with it - I took it down, stuffed it back in the box and it is now in the back of my car to be taken to Savers.  It is just too big.  I jumped online and found a tree on Amazon that will be delivered on Friday for about $39 and it has lights already on it - albeit optic lights - and it is smaller and thinner.  True, I don't need a tree back there, but I want a tree back there.  As well as the one in the living room.  And.I.Shall.Have.It.  Right?  Had a few more packages arrive yesterday, and I was disappointed one item I thought would be perfect - was not.  I debated on sending it back (which is a pain, as you know) I decided someone else could be the recipient of it.  I rewrote my lists last night and found there are some I don't have anything for yet - well, a few of the grandsons.  I'll figure it out.  Girls are so much easier!

I was exhausted last night so slept sound - until hubby did one of his flip-flops in bed about 4:15AM.  I had turned off my alarm at 4AM as I just didn't want to get up.  I went ahead and got up when he woke me up - and then he slept for another 30 minutes or so.  I have my coffee so I'm good. :-)

I still have my minutes to type from the last board meeting - I've procrastinated very well, haven't I?  And yesterday I got assigned the project of designing a SharePoint site.  I don't know anything about SharePoint, and it took me awhile to find it.  My old boss who retired a couple years ago had me get one created - and they did create it - but then she changed her mind - so it has sat with nothing on it.  NOW my boss wants to start using it, told me what she wants on it, and expects me to have it done within a week or so.  Guess who is going to have to learn how to do SharePoint?  I have a book, which will be helpful, I'm hoping.  So what is priority - the minutes or the SharePoint site?  Yeah - I'll procrastinated too long.  Plus I have a message I need to put together for the 10th and 17th as I'm speaking at two RV parks those dates.  OOOPS.  I do have one started - and I can use the same one at both places - but I do need to get beyond the first page.  I need to bake cookies tonight to take to the potluck tomorrow - but I can work on it while they are baking.  Plus I can devote time this weekend to it.  I just need 4-5 hours to get it done - and I have time.  I only have to give the title and verse this weekend.  

Think I have allowed myself to be overwhelmed with projects I have procrastinated on?  Yep.  I think so too.  But, I will get it all done - I work well under stress.

But I still am taking my day off work tomorrow to go to the Christmas Ideas House with my boss, and then the company Christmas party as well.  I need a play day, right?  But that means I really need to buckle down today and get some things done besides meetings scheduled.

II Peter 3:10-12 (NKJV):  "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the elements in it will be burned up.  Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? 

I tell you what, sometimes when standing out in the heat here, we certainly think we are being burned up - but the heat we feel from our sun will be nothing compared to the fervent heat that will come at the end of time.   I can't stand out in this sun very long, but that fervent heat, well, I don't think I want to be a part of it.  I want to be one of the people who will be raptured and taken up with Him.  Don't you?  It is a choice, you know.  I pray you choose rightly.

This room is looking worse every day with packages coming in.  I'll get some packages in the mail by Monday to family back in the Midwest.  That will open up some room.  But I also need to get packages wrapped and under the trees.  Then I can get the boxes out of here.  Some of it is hubby's things so can't take out of the boxes yet.

I love Christmas.  I love celebrating the birth of Jesus, knowing He came to earth to save me and you.  I love acknowledging Him as King.  And I love to make or buy and give gifts to lots of people.  I need to start earlier though, although I am still much earlier than many people.  One year I started in January and was done by December.... and I did start early this year... and I"m still not stressed about Christmas.  Still need to get times sorted out with my children, but am waiting on work details before final arrangements can be made.  And that's ok.

I look forward to having family together with me, even though we do families separate.  We've grown so big that we really have to.  This house is too small to get everyone in it.  But I love having family around and loving on them and serving them and just enjoying them.  That makes Christmas for me.

I need food ideas too - what would they want for their meal?  Breakfast food?  Lunch food?  Dinner food?  I will do whatever they want.  And I have held to my comment of cutting back this Christmas.  It's made it harder to buy for everyone cause I keep seeing things that I know someone else would like - but - I must resist!   I still need ideas for some... but, since I don't see or hear anything... it may be clothes.  Lucky them! :-)

Ok - need to hit the shower before work and my head is hurting still so an ibuprofen is in order as well. I will NOT be sick!  I have too much to do and to get done.  But I enjoy the unwork part of it.  Work, not so much.  Let's party!

Got a question for you this morning - if someone asked you today what you were grateful for - what would you tell them?  Something to think about.

Blessings!

It may be a feeling like long day today...

 On our 'girls night out' last night, my daughter and I did some shopping.  After that, we stopped at Zupa's to grab a bite to eat - and I had tomato basil soup and 1/2 a sandwich.  Not bad, right?  A cup of soup and 1/2 a sandwich.  And I hadn't eaten much all day, so I was hungry.  But 'my' problem turns out that my stomach is used to getting food around 4-5PM and not around 7-7:30PM, which is when we ate.  Which means, when I went to bed last night, the food had not digested yet.  Not used to going to bed with a still full tummy.  I should have stayed up - my fault - but I didn't.  And about 30 minutes after falling asleep, I felt the soup inching it's way back up my throat.  YECK.  Took care of that and tried to fall back to sleep, only I couldn't. So about 11PM I got up and came in here - to my chair - and curled up and tried to go back to sleep.  I did doze off and on all night - but never did get to sleep well.  Why didn't I just climb into the bed in here?  Sigh.  Because it is loaded down again with boxes, wrapping paper, and Christmas gifts.  Guess what I'm going to be working on the rest of this week!  My tummy still isn't feeling quite right - probably from sitting and laying back in this chair all night.  No, it's not the food - it is because I didn't allow it to digest before heading to bed.

And, surprisingly, hubby hasn't realized I got up out of bed during the night.  He won't find out either for I'm not in the mood to be questioned as to 'what were you thinking, or what did you eat again, or you know better than that, etc.'  It's not a big deal.  And I don't want to be questioned.  It just happened, and I'll remember next time to not eat so late - or don't go to bed at my usual time after I eat late.

I tell you what - some things that I 'see' as I'm shopping and think will be cute when they arrive - are not what they seem.  For example, I bought what I thought was a small ceramic Christmas tree that I could use for a 'white elephant gift'.  It was marked down to $11 on Amazon from $19.99 so I thought it would be something to use, and it really looked cute.  Well, it arrived yesterday.  It isn't a ceramic tree.  It's a perhaps a 12' put together tree - but it has everything in the box - so I can't fault them - I just was 'seeing' something that wasn't.  It has the tree you insert in to the stand, it has bulbs - may even have lights; I didn't look.  It even has ribbon to put around the tree.  No, I'm not going to send it back.  I actually bought two as I have two 'parties' to go to that have white elephant stuff.   I always try to take something nice - but sometimes people bring the oddest things.

Now I get it, 'white elephant' means something you have that you don't want any more, right?  But I still always try to take nice things.  Hence the trees.  Last year at one I got a large fragrance warmer - which uses those little blocks of wax and it sends a fragrance around the room.  It's still in the box.  But I can't reuse it as a white elephant gift cause the box has sorta been messed up.  I know, the box is nothing, and the item is still new.  I think what I'll do is take it out of the box for someone else's gift - but I can't take it to the office as the person who brought it last year told me that she had gotten it the year before and I had made a comment on how nice it was - so she was thrilled that I got it.  Needless to say I was 'dumbfounded' cause I certainly didn't need it as I have two if not three fragrance warmers that I don't even use!  They got put away when we got Sheeba.  I've just not brought them back out. 

So guess what one white elephant gift is that I'm taking to the office one on Friday?  I checked with my boss and she said it was perfect.  Me, not so sure.  I have a set of 4 Christmas cups that I do not remember where they came from (probably a white elephant party) and I do not want.  I took them, put in a box, added a package of Starbucks French Roast ground coffee, and a box of Swiss Miss Hot Chocolate (Dark Chocolate, mind you), and wrapped them all together.  My daughter reminded me that a 'white elephant' gift is one that you got that you regift cause you don't want it.  I get that, but I still like to give nice gifts.  But I am definitely getting rid of this one!  I will admit it is better than just a couple dish towels that I have gotten before in a white elephant exchange.  I'll do the tree in the one later this month. 

I put together the big 8' tree I got from Ms. Vicky - and reluctantly checked the icicle lights and they seemed to work - and put them on the tree.  UGLY.  And then the tree stand bent and the tree went sideways (I heard the white house tree fell yesterday too!) so I propped it up with a piece of wood.  Half the lights don't work.  Tree looks crappy.  So I told hubby the lights will remain off.  I will take them off when I have a chance.  I'll put the bulbs on it - but it will be a lightless tree.  I just wanted one for extra gifts to keep them separate from family gifts and out of this room.  But - if anyone wants a nice looking 8' tree - they can have this one - it is really way too big for what I want it for.  I certainly didn't expect such a large tree - our tree is about a third of that that size.  If I could just find someone to take it off my hands.  They'd just need to get a new stand and lights.  I'll figure it out. But I don't think I'll put it up next year.  I'll get a smaller one after Christmas.

Psalm 136:1,26 (NKJV):  "O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!  His mercy endures forever."

Have you ever stopped to think about how merciful God is to us?  He not only forgives us our sins when we ask Him, He continuously shows us His mercy.   Mercy is not only NOT getting what you deserve, but getting even more.  It's like a person killing someone and he goes before the judge and the judge plans to give him a sentence... but the parent of the child killed persuades the judge to be lenient to the murderer, to show him mercy.  And that's what God does for us.  He is always showing us mercy in that we do not get the punishment we deserve for our sins.  He is lenient with us.  He forgives us.  He not only shows us mercy, but shows us grace.  Yes, we still need to suffer the consequences of our sins - but He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  He is a good, good, God, and a Merciful Father.

I'm grateful for His mercy and His grace, aren't you?  I can think back over my life and see many times when I could have been killed, I could have been in serious trouble... and yet, in His mercy and love, He rescued me.  How can one not love Him and choose Him?  After all, His own Son, Jesus, went to the cross and died for our sins - and the good news is that Jesus rose again so that we are set free and can live with Him forever.  What a loving, forgiving, faithful Father!  Give that some thought today!

Blessings!

And I know that God heard....

 I feel sorry for those who do not know God, who do not know how much they are loved by Jesus, who do not believe in the Holy Spirit.  They are the Three in One.  You cannot go to the Father, without going to Jesus first.  It says so right in our Bibles!  Jesus is our Advocate.  He is our Healer.  He is our Everything. And yesterday, I prayed for my older brother, not knowing what the outcome would be.  I know I wasn't the only one praying. Definitely not.  But I like to think I had a part in the results.  I waited several hours before I text'd his wife to see how he came out.  Her exact words thrilled me, and I began to praise the Lord for hearing and answering my prayers.

"Hi there. All went well. No blockage. No stents needed. So great news! We just got home. I will have him text you after we eat."

Whoo hoo!  I did the happy dance!  He didn't text me, but I figured he was a bit worn out from the procedure.  You know how when we don't know for sure the outcome of things how it can wear on the mind - and on the body.  I'm sure he was tired.  I will probably hear from him at some point today. Grateful we have a God who we can turn to and trust Him to answer our prayers.  No matter what the outcome, God was still in control.  I'm grateful it went well.  But I also believe that because he was taken into surgery and had also been approved for open heart surgery if needed...... and the results were 'no blockage, no stents needed' that God opened everything up before the surgery was to begin!  God is good, He is faithful - always.  Hallelujah!

We brought the tree home from Ms. Vicky's after work yesterday.  That tree is HUGE!  I need to go out today or tomorrow and pick up a few strings of lights and a tree skirt and a tree topper.  She did give us three long strings of lights, but they are the icicle kind and I am not going to mess with them.  Well, maybe not a topper as the tree hits the ceiling in the back room as a section is lower than the rest.  Hubby did his best to help - I finally sent him to KFC to get dinner.  I hope to finish the tree up by this weekend - will see.  I explained to hubby when I told him about getting the tree, that we need a place to put the 'other' gifts and the gifts to each other.  He wasn't in full agreement but let me have my way.  I had told him 'don't make me sad'.  This tree is twice the size of our tree.  I'm really going to have to declutter the cabinets in the garage after Christmas - there is no place to store it!

Hubby just got up, brought my coffee in and commented "I can't believe I slept that late."  I can.  He kept me awake most of the night, so I know he didn't sleep much - and neither did I.  I just chose to get up about my usual time.  Wanted to go back to sleep in here, but when I do try that, I'm always listening for hubby to come in with my coffee, so I don't sleep well.  When I do sleep well is after I get my coffee and I know he won't be making another trip back here for a couple hours.  It was 5:50AM when he got up.

Packages are starting to arrive and hubby is making his comments.  More will be arriving today as I selected this 'Amazon day' so that I could get more items in the boxes versus just one item. If you shop via Amazon, you know what I mean.  I have more coming on Thursday.  I've gotten notices from other places that their orders are being sent out too.  I have boxes and items stacked on the bed again.  I'm waiting on one more item and will ship my sister's package off to her.  She called me yesterday and said that she had just shipped my packages and I was not to open until Christmas.  I told her two could play that game. I'll get hers off yet this week.  I think I have 3 boxes ready to ship out (not all hers).  Will ship to my brothers in another week or so - at least get in to December.  I send them my bread.  Not a big deal, for sure, but just to let them know I'm thinking of them.

I wasn't feeling real well last night, but better somewhat this morning.  I'm taking my olive leaf extract and a couple other things.  My little brother told me about something he takes - and I decided to try to. It's called Yoders Extract - or something like that.  It's base is apple cider vinegar (which is good for you) and then add in 20 herbs and what all.  I will say that it is 'tart' and you can taste the vinegar - but it isn't that bad.  Think I will double my dose for a few days.  Do not want to be sick on Friday when I go to the Christmas house with my boss!

I Chronicles 16:8 (NKJV):  "Give praise to the Lord, proclaim His name; make known among the nations what He has done."

I can't 'proclaim to the nations' of what the Lord has done - but in a way I can on here.  I mentioned at the beginning of this blog today of God hearing my prayers and answering for my big brother.  I shared - aka proclaimed - it to you.... and although I know a couple of you are in town, my 'stats' say I also have in France... so in essence, I am proclaiming to the nation(s) what the Lord has done, right?  

God is faithful - always.  He always answers our prayers.  The answer may just not be what we want it to be.  But sometimes it is.  As I laid in bed last night, thanking God for taking care of my big brother, I was thinking of how to share about it on here.  One of my titles I thought of was "And He said Yes".  

Have you ever done that?  When there was something you wanted to share with others - whether by text or blog - and you wanted to make the title an impact?  I do that sometimes, and then I forget all about it come morning.  That's why my titles are somewhat drab at times.  But I bet you still read so does it even matter?

What does matter is that we give ALL the praise to the Lord, and proclaim His name, which is great.  We make Him known to everyone by sharing what He has done in us, through us, around us, and with us.  Only He is to be given the praise and the glory for all things.

God is good.  All the time God is good.  Share with others the goodness of God in your life today.

Blessings!

A brother on my mind....

 My oldest surviving brother is having heart surgery at 8:15 our time this morning and he is on my mind and in my prayers.  The last time he had heart surgery, he didn't tell me until afterwards, and I chewed him out good.  At least I think I must have because he let me know last week that he would be going in to the hospital this morning.  He said originally it was scheduled as an angioplasty, which is the doctors going into the vessels of the heart and opening up the top half of the artery.  But they may decide they need to go ahead and do a bypass, and he has given them permission to do so.  A bypass would open up the arteries completely.  It all depends on how clogged they are.  What is sad is that neither my little brother nor my little sister wants to hear anything about him, so I have not shared this information.  But I always keep praying for reconciliation before it is too late.   I believe that he will be fine after the surgery, but any surgery can have difficulties, and messing with the heart is, I think, the most dangerous.  Am I fearful of the outcome?  Yes, I must admit, although I have prayed not only for my brother, and the doctors involved, I am fearful of 'losing' my big brother.  We are close and it would be painful to have to say goodbye.  But I have put him in God's hands so am trusting and believing that God will answer the way I want Him to answer.  

Yesterday was a quiet day for us.  We went to church as planned.  We came home after, and I fixed sandwiches for lunch.  Hubby settled in with his TV football programs and I tried to decide what I wanted to do.  I kept saying I was going to go out and do some shopping, but never did.  I knew that if I went out, I'd spend money... and I kept feeling I just needed to wait and not go anywhere.  So, I stayed home - and ordered some things online that I needed to get for gifts.  Now no more ordering or shopping until things come in so that I can see exactly where I am at.  In fact, I'm going to go through everything thus far and doublecheck my lists to make sure I'm done with some.  

I wish money was no issue and I could just buy whatever I want for everyone - needs and wants.  But I must be realistic as well.  I know I have already spent quite a bit - more than I thought I would - but then I also have bought a lot and paid a higher price by doing it early.  But, in the long run, if I had gone to the store, I would have - more than likely - picked up more things than needed and spent more as well.  I try to rationalize it that way.  I don't like shopping.  I do like to browse.  And when I browse, a lot of times I also buy things I don't need; perhaps hadn't even thought of buying until I saw it.  So, if I don't see it, I don't buy it - right?  But I'm still spending too much as I think of others, besides family, that I want to get things for.  At least with my little sister and her hubby, I am done.  Well, I have one or two things I'm waiting for to come in yet - and then I will be shipping her box out.  I probably spent more on her because she has mentioned some things, and I knew she couldn't get them.  But then, sometimes, I pick up on her little hints.  Last night she was sending me photos of specific tennis shoes that she was wanting to buy.  Could that be a hint for me to get for her?  Not going to do it.  I'm done with shopping for her.  I may relook at some things and remove them from the box for I told her I wasn't doing a lot this year.  I need to relook at what I have put in there.  But her grandson is living with her at the moment so stuck in a devotional book for him.  And of course, I have to include something for her hubby so got him a container of nuts. I don't even remember what all I got her so will need to go through the box.  But it will go out by the end of the week - still clearing out this room.

My neighbor is wanting to get rid of her Christmas tree as she doesn't put it up.  I gave it some thought and talked to hubby last night about it - then sent her a text - we're going to get the tree and I am going to find room to put it up in the back room.  I told hubby that we can put the gifts to each other under that tree (rather than stacking back here for him; he hides in his trunk and waits until Christmas Eve to wrap) and also for others so that I know when I'm done with that person.  I don't keep seeing the gift in here but get it out of here.  At least with my bosses - I have two that I have until the 14th before I'll see them; and my favorite boss - although I am meeting up with her this Friday to go to the Christmas Ideals House - we are meeting up again on December 22nd so that I can give her all the goodies.  She likes them for her family and friends gatherings over Christmas.  And I can make then and they will be fresh.

I Chronicles 16:34 (NKJV):  "O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!  His mercy endures forever."

The Lord has been so good to each of us.  Every morning He wakes us up.  Every morning He gives us breath in our lungs.  Inhale deeply, for we receive the breath of God.  With each breath, we can praise God.  Inhale with 'YAH' and exhale with 'WEH' and you have spoken the name of the Lord God Almighty.  YAHWEH.   Give thanks to Him for breath this morning.  Give thanks for not only life, but also for providing for all your needs.  We may not always get what we want, but He always provides what we need.

His mercy always endures forever.   Have you ever wondered how you got through some things?  When things have been critical, or frustrating, or painful.... and you wonder how in the world you got throught it all?  It is because of His mercy for you.  Give Him thanks always, for He loves you and cares deeply for you.  Bless His Holy Name.   YAHWEH.

Blessings!

One down, one to go....sorta...

 I finally made it over to visit Ms. Vicky yesterday afternoon.  For some reason I wasn't really in the mood to go, but I did, and met her new roommate and had a nice visit with Ms. Vicky as well.  Ms. Vicky was complaining in a way that this new roommate, JoAnn, pretty much stays in her room and doesn't sit out with her.  I'm not sure what Ms. Vicky was hoping for when she got this roommate.  But I told her - you know, you put it out there for 'advice', I'm going to give it - I said to Ms. Vicky something along the lines of "You wanted company, someone who would take some of the financial stress off you, right? " (she nodded)  But you still want your space, right?  (after all she has lived alone for years.  again, she nodded).  "JoAnn has lived there for maybe two weeks; she is letting you set boundaries, because it is your house. "  Basically, I shared that it is JoAnn is letting her set the boundaries.   But I also cautioned Ms. Vicky on giving free rein of the house until she is sure she can get along with this woman.  I know Ms. Vicky would like someone to watch TV with (but maybe JoAnn doesn't like football like Ms. Vicky does).  Invite her when she wants company; say nothing when she doesn't.  Plus, JoAnn is a talker!  When she came out and started talking to me, after just meeting me, she took over the conversation and I was afraid that Ms. Vicky would get upset because JoAnn was asking me all kinds of questions.   She didn't stay long, though, and went back to her room.  Ms. Vicky and I did get to spend some time together without interruption. The roommate seems nice and I suggested to Ms. Vicky that she not treat her as a guest, which we are prone to do with someone in our house.  We cater to guests, most of the time.  Roommates are to take care of themselves.

We didn't do much else yesterday.  I fixed us a late breakfast.  I came out of my room and asked hubby if he had eaten breakfast yet.  He said "I ate a Belvita."  They are 4 cookie/crackers in a package he likes to have in the morning with his coffee.  I rolled my eyes, and then fixed us both an egg mcmuffin with bacon.  We blew by lunch - I didn't offer to fix anything.  Hubby was watching football but asked if I wanted to watch a Christmas movie - and of course I did!  So we watched 'The Christmas Card' (starring Ed Asner and it is so good), and 'The Tree That Saved Christmas'.  Both were good stories.  Then I went to visit Ms. Vicky.  When I came back - he had to settle for a grilled cheese sandwich for dinner cause I wasn't in the mood to cook a meal.  He knows where the food is if he is hungry - right?  There are TV dinners in the freezer.

So that was our Saturday.  Hubby finished his TV watching in the evening with Notre Dame stomping on Stanford.  I sat and crochet'd and watched it as well.

Church is on the agenda this morning.  I didn't turn on Jentezen Franklin as I have a bit of a sinus headache and just didn't want the noise.  I'm not one of those who always has to have the TV on for background noise.  I enjoy the quiet.  I can play a CD if I want noise.  I'll be stopping soon and head for the shower shortly too.   Want to smell pretty.  Hubby didn't stick his head in the door and ask if I was going to watch him either - which makes me wonder if he turned it on - or forgot - or didn't want to.  

Luke 2:15 (NKJV):  "So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go now to Bethlehem and see now this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us."

Ah, yes, tis the season.  Thanksgiving is now over and all eyes are upon the upcoming Christmas season.  This is my 'favorite' holiday.  Some say Easter is their favorite, but I love Christmas.  I love the gathering and giving.  I just enjoy the festivities of it all.  

In fact, next Friday, the first of December, it really starts for me.  I go to the Christmas Ideas House with my boss, then the office is having a potluck Christmas party that same day in the Mesa office - so will go to it afterwards.  I'll get to see many of my coworkers that I have not seen these past 3 years of working remote.  I said I'd bring dessert so I need to make cookies to take.  Also, one of my friends that will be coming loves my gingersnap cookies so will be sure to make some of those for her. She will be surprised.  Another I need to bring a small gift to.   Then on December 14th, I have a department Christmas party where I'll see two of my other bosses so need to get their gifts together to take to them. Then I have my own baking to do for my neighbors.  December may prove to be a busy month.  But I love it all.  I used to do a lot more than I do now.  Oh I forgot, December 9th I'm meeting with several friends who I worked with at Mercy Care - and we're having lunch - and I'll be taking some gifts with me there as I'll see some I am still pretty close with and they always got my pickles and bread.  I love baking and cannng and giving away.  It's my love gift.

But back to the verse about.... if God showed you something, or told you something, what would you do with it?  Would you just shrug and say 'whatever' and wonder about why you were told it?  Or would you take the initiative to find out what it was all about?  Would you say "Let us now to go .............. and see now this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us."?

If the Lord has shown me something, or revealed to me something, you can be sure that I will be checking it out!  So I encourage you.  Sit still and let God be with you for awhile.  Listen for His voice.  And when He shares something... 'go now and see'.

Blessings!

Another good day..... pretty much

 It was pretty much a good day yesterday.  I must have gotten through all those construction buildings I mentioned yesterday for I did make it to the gym on time - although I was a bit concerned as every single signal light I came up to turned red.  I think I had two minutes to spare.  We worked shoulders yesterday (because I do not have any) and I expected them to be sore today, but they are not.  Perhaps I'm 'destined' to have little shoulders?  If I am, then why is the rest of my body so large?  Sigh.

I still had a little time before hubby came home from his Bible study, though not much.... I'm trying to remember what I did!  I didn't do any more wrapping.  I didn't read.  I didn't crochet. Huh.  I can't remember what I did in that short time.  Obviously I enjoyed the quiet of the moment.  After hubby got home, which was not long after, I headed over to one of the rec centers nearby as friends of ours from a church we attended years ago was playing Santa and Mrs. Claus.  They do this every year wherever they can get hired at.  He is a former pastor.  I haven't seen them in probably 15 years at least.  Oh my goodness.  It was an art and craft sale at the rec center and I had to drive around for a parking spot!  I was beginning to think I was not going to see them, when I found one.  Then I went inside.... but not for long.  It was full of tables and bumper to bumper people.  Uh, no.  I love people, I really do, but that is just too close for me.  And too many.  I walked into the courtyard and walked around, looking for Santa and Mrs. Claus and finally found them.  They remembered me by name and we chatted for a few minutes.  They asked if I wanted to get a photo - but I told them no.  I just wanted to come by and see them.  They are 'old' and his beard and white hair is real.  And he has a lot of health issues as well, so I probably should have gotten a photo, to make them feel better anyway.  But I didn't need one.  From there I stopped at Safeway and picked up a few things and headed back to the house.

Not long after I decided to take some crochet'd washcloths over to the granddaughter so she could put in her shop today.  I just wanted to get out of the house.  Stopped by to visit with the youngest son for a little while before heading back home.  I wanted to catch up on all that is going on with his children and his life.  

Back home I told hubby let's go to dinner as I wasn't cooking.  Headed over to Coco's for the meal then came home - and then of course we had to watch a movie.  It was a nice day and I actually got out of the house for quite a bit of it by myself.  Today I may not be as lucky.  But I do have several things I need to get done today, and a couple of my packages arrived last night so I can get those wrapped and under the tree.   Need to get the message ready for I speak again in a couple weeks - two weeks in a row - at least I can use the same message as it is at two different RV parks.

Colossians 3:17 (NKJV):  "And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."

Have you ever thought about how you live your life, and the words you say, are a reflection of who Jesus is in you? 

I was reading in the book by Frances Chan, Letters to the Church, and I'm reading about what a pastor should be.  Very interesting.  He has broken it out by different types.  The Christian Pastor - which is interesting, as you would think all pastors were Christians.... but that is not always the case.  The ones that are now are 'false prophets'.   Then there is The Praying Pastor - one who prays at least an hour a day, prayer is that critical.  Prayer is not merely a task of ministry; it is a gauge that exposes our heart's condition.  It unveils our pride, showing us whether or not we believe we are powerless without God.  Prayer is an expression of surrender to God and reliance on His infinite wisdom and sovereignty.  Remember, even Jesus prayed before He did miracles.  And especially before He went to the cross for us.  There is also a Humble Pastor, who doesn't let pride get in his life.  Sometimes a pastor can get puffed up when people compliment them on a good message or if they write a book and it does well and he because a well-known, aka famous, author.  Pride is of the devil and we need to be always on guard against it.  (Now I will say that pride is ok in 'I am proud of you' because you are not exalting yourself, but expressing and exhorting the other person.)

There are more pastors he describes in the book, but I stopped my reading and haven't gotten to all of them.  And yes, I examine my own life as I read them.  Although I'm not really a 'pastor'.  I was told years ago by someone that a 'Pastor' was one who was on staff.  Otherwise you are a 'minister'.  Whatever.  I don't care what title I'm given; I just want to share Jesus with others.

But all that I do or say, I am to do it for the Glory of God - for it is a reflection of who He is in me.  Sometimes I fail in that - as I'm sure you do as well.  I let my frustration come out.  Or I behave in such a way that isn't appropriate as a Christian (my definition of one, anyway).  Sometimes we let others bring out the worst in us.  Yes, I said 'let'.  

I was once told - many, many years ago - by a former boss that 'my attitude when I come in to the office each morning set the attitude of people in the office'.  Now mind you, it was a very small office.  But when he said that, I became more conscious of how I walked in - meaning I came in with a cheery 'good morning!' instead of grumbling as I came in.  You know what I mean - and you probably do the same.

In fact- each one of us - how we greet our spouse or children - whichever we see first thing in the morning - gets a glimpse of us in our attitude or words spoken to them.  Our words set their day in place.  If we greet our spouse or child cheerfully (in spite of THEIR attitude that morning), it can change their outlook for the day.  If they hear us being grumpy and snarky in the morning... they can choose to avoid us and get out of the house as soon as they can - which causes them to leave with a poor attitude as well.  Who would have thought one person could have that much effect on others?!

But we do.  And if we allow the love and attitude of Jesus to flow through us, what a wonderful world this would be.

Blessings!

What could it mean?

 I need a Daniel (as in OT) to interpret a dream for me I had last night.  I can ponder it all I want, and probably still will not understand the dream.  It's interesting I had a dream like this, for I am reading the book of Daniel now, and he is interpreting King Nebuchadnezzar's dreams.  My dream?

I am at work in a building that is under construction.  I wanted to know about a person's test results and were looking them up.  A little later, HR calls me to an office.  I think I'm in trouble for looking at the person's test results, but it doesn't seem like that is the reason.  I have been called to the HR office because I do research and am accurate in my work and they need someone who will pursue until they get the right answers.  There is another person in the office with us but I cannot see them, only a shadow.  Then we walk to another location where the 'job' is for me to work on.  We go through four other buildings (about the size of monuments) that are also under construction.  

All this time, I am worried about the time as I had left my phone in the original location, and I needed to get to the gym by 7:30AM for my appointment.  It was nearly 7AM at that time.  By the time we reached the 4th building, I'm totally lost as I am directionally challenged.  But I speak up and tell them I must go get my phone and call my trainer that I could not make it to the gym and cancel my appointment.  I was wandering through the buildings, trying to find my way out, knowing I had 3 other buildings to get through before I could get to the original building.... my watch buzzes.  I think it is the alarm and I didn't even look but shut it off.  

After all, it's Friday after Thanksgiving and I don't have to get up, right?  But my watch buzzes again and I finally look at it.  4:04AM.  Why was it buzzing if it wasn't the alarm?  No, it wasn't a call.  I could see there is a message on my phone and even in my difficulty to read it without glasses, I finally figured out - for the first time ever - my watch was telling me it was down to 10% battery.  I went ahead and got up so that I could plug my watch in.  

No, I haven't figured out the dream - and isn't it weird my watch would tell me it's down to 10% battery?  The only reason I can think of the battery ran down (as I charge it every morning) is that I took a walk yesterday morning - aka Turkey Trot - and used my watch to track.  It doesn't take long to recharge but it did get me up out of bed at my usual time.  Which is ok.  I DO have a 7:30AM gym appointment, which I do intend to keep..... somehow I'll find my way through all those buildings.  Really weird dream, huh?!

Yesterday was a good day.  I baked the turkey, dressing and giblet gravy, and baked a pumpkin pie and made a key lime pie to take to my daughter's.  Lunch was delicious with the yams and green bean casserole, ham, deviled eggs, and rolls.  Oh - and cranberry salad - which was really good.  I think that was it.  I was good - ate a bit of everything - even a bite of chocolate brownie cheesecake and key lime pie.  Maybe a couple pieces of chocolate covered cherries that were so good.  It was a nice day and we headed back home around 5PM, I think.  No, I did not bring any leftovers home, and cleaned the dishes up when I got home and then we sat quietly until going to bed.  Hubby was on his phone going through this stuff and I crochet'd as I knew I couldn't' read and stay awake.  It was a good day.

Was able to discuss Christmas time and food for that part of the family  They will come over Christmas Eve at noon and I'll fix 3-4 different kinds of soup and a couple salads.   I need to talk with my oldest son and see about food, but I have another question.  Since Christmas Eve is on Sunday.   And Christmas is on Monday.  He and his family usually come over on Christmas Day for dinner and we open gifts together.  But I got to thinking about the boys working nights and the granddaughter and her family coming up to celebrate with them and us too.  I just erased all my ramblings...  it may be easier to just talk with him and let him discuss with his family. 

I also need to check with the youngest son as I don't know his schedule with his kids, grandkids and stepson.  Life is complicated sometimes.  

Hubby has his Bible study this morning and I have my 7:30AM gym appointment... feels good not having to jump on the work computer.  I'd be bored out of my mind if I didn't have my job, I think.  Hubby already clings to me and if I was not working, it would be worse.  Even cooking yesterday, knowing I don't want him in the kitchen, he was coming in with 'what can I do to help?'  I appreciate the offer, but get out of MY kitchen (to which he informs me it is OUR kitchen!).  Yet, I can't remember the last time he offered to cook a meal for us.

Colossians 2:6-7 (NKJV):  "As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving."

This verse actually is two parts.  People come to faith with empty hands and nothing to offer, but at the foot of the cross, they receive Jesus Christ our Lord and that motivates them to live life as Christ did.  We abound with thanksgiving as the results of living a Christ-centered life.  Counting blessings is the greatest mathematics exercise in the universe; it helps Christians understand that the sum total of every good and perfect gift comes from above.  A thankful heart adds clarity to the believer's life... it will never confuse them.

So have you paused your life long enough to count your blessings lately?  Do you have a roof over your head?  Do you have food to eat?  Are you and your family healthy?  Things that we take for granted - these are things we can be thankful for.  You may think you did it all by yourself, but you didn't.  It is by the grace of God.  He loves you, even if you choose not to follow Him, He still loves you, and yearns to have you turn back to Him.  We celebrate the birth of Jesus in a little more than a month... wouldn't it be a good time to reflect on how good God has been to you, and turn your heart back to Him.  What a celebration that would be in heaven (and on earth!).

Blessings!

I survived my tizzy...

 and things got resolved.  Grateful it was without much conflict.  How it happened no one knows - had to have been a facebook glitch of some sort.  Unsettling at best.  I was beside myself.  I was in a tizzy.  But it's all better now.  

I'm feeling somewhat sad this morning in that we all can't be together today for Thanksgiving.  But I understand the reasons why; not counting going other places.  I don't like anyone left out of things... but it is not my house nor my place to invite.... and personalities and behavior definitely do not get along.  It will still be a good day.

I 'get to' bake the turkey, dressing, and giblet gravy, as mentioned before.  I have a pumpkin pie in the freezer that I need to get out and bake first this morning.  That will be my contribution to the lunch today. There will be too much food, and too much food eaten (by me), I'm sure.  I'm making a huge batch of cornbread dressing so that I can share with my boys if they want.... hopefully will have extra giblet gravy as well, but that is doubtful.  Can only get so much out of one turkey as far as giblets and broth.  I am thinking of defrosting my small turkey in the freezer and cooking it in a few days.  Need to cook it anyways.  I love to cook so that isn't the problem at all.  Carting it all everywhere may be, though.

Turkey Trot just not really going to happen today.  The daughter needs surgery so can't walk very far and I really do need the time to finish up everything for a 1PM lunch.  So I will bake the pie, get the turkey in the pan and cooking, done all I can do for the dressing until I get some turkey broth, and giblet gravy can't be made until the giblets are cooked - so during that timeframe, I will take a walk around the block and at least get some 'turkey trot' in, albeit alone, although hubby might walk with me but he hasn't walked around the full block yet.... sigh.  My life in a nutshell; it always feels incomplete.

Started reading a new book last night - and hopefully I can learn from it. Well, not only learn, but act on it.  It is called 'The Best of You' and is especially for women, I think, written by a woman psychologist. How many times do we give up our dreams to fulfill someone else's?  How many times do we do what is 'expected' d of a female and bury what we really feel?  I only got through the first chapter last night and I think it will be interesting.  Not necessarily with things I can or will do, but help me understand why I feel the way I do about some things?  I don't know.  I also had a copy sent to my little sister.  She always lets her family walk all over her - and never stands up for herself.  At least I can get vocal at times... then go back to business as usual.  sigh.

Yesterday was a quiet day as far as work.  I 'shut down' about 2PM as no one was working.  I left the computer on so will do a last check this morning before shutting it down.  I do need to jump on tomorrow as I expect invoices to come through and need to process them.  Double check I approved all the timecards that will need to be done on Monday - hey - if everyone is off today and tomorrow - just 'get 'er done' - right?

When I 'quit' work yesterday, I decided I was going to get this bedroom done.  And I did.  I got the bed cleaned off and a new Christmas quilt and shams put on it to decorate it.  I wrapped several gifts that have come in and they are under the tree.  And happily, I marked several 'done' as I listed what I had purchased.  I told you I was cutting way back this year.  I know I'm spending just as much as some of the items are more than what I usually buy, but that's ok.  It's all paid for at this point.  I'm paying as I go, even if I do put on the credit card -  as soon as I receive the goods, I go in and pay the bill.  Done and done.  And I have a lot of things still coming in.  But I got most wrapped and under the tree yesterday and although I have 'stuff' on the bed, the first of the week those are going out in the mail - even if it is early.  Get it out before the Christmas mailing rush and I don't care if they open right away or not - that's all they get.  Mid December I will ship my brothers a big loaf of my cranberry pumpkin nut bread, they seem to like it and it's an inexpensive gift to send to let them know I'm thinking of them.  

Found out yesterday my remaining older brother will be having possibly bypass surgery in January. They were looking at angioplasty but may go the bypass route.  He takes care of himself and eats good, exercises, but has been a diabetic for nearly 40 years and that has taken a toll on his body.  My younger brother had a bypass several years ago.  Heart disease runs in the male side of my family.  Although I've often wondered about mine - nothing has ever showed up.  My heart is grieved at the thought of the possibility of losing another sibling.  It's too soon to lose another.  I miss my big sister a lot as she was the 'last one' to go and it was so sudden and unexpected. Still seems unreal.  Thankful for the ones I still have.

Colossians 3:14-16 (NKJV): "But above all these things, put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body, and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord."

It's Thanksgiving.  What are you thankful for?

I'm thankful God gave me a daughter and two sons whom I love with my life.  And from them the generations will come and have come - 11 grandchildren, and now 7 great grandchildren.  I'm thankful for health.  I'm thankful ... well, I'm thankful.  My heart grieves over situations, but I'm thankful that I can trust God to be in control of each situation.  The pain in my heart is my love for each one, wanting their lives to be full of Jesus and love.  Oh that I could help them to find Him so that they could truly live!  Those I thought would always love Jesus and serve Him have turned away in anger at not getting their way... and it breaks my heart.  I pray they realize that sometimes 'wait' is better than getting what you want when you want it to happen.  Jesus IS the only way.  Oh that my joy would be complete that all my children and grandchildren and great grandchildren would know Him as Lord before it is too late.  That the children would teach their children, and they would teach their children.... life is better with Jesus, than it is without Him.  Trust me.  I know.  

Be thankful today - not just for being with those you love and having great food, but be thankful to the One who rescues you from yourself, and gave His life for you.

Blessings!

I'm in a tizzy this morning...

 I normally do not glance at Facebook this early in the morning, but for some reason I did - and what I saw did not make me happy at all.  Needless to say, I sent a couple text's off this morning and I hope these people wake up soon and see it and do something about it.  It is just eating at me until something is done. So I'm in a 'tizzy'.  Ever get that way?

I also had a sweet text from a granddaughter this morning that the great granddaughter had lost her loose tooth she was showing me on Saturday.  I can't believe how big she is getting!  Granted I don't see her often due to distance so when I do see her, I see major growth.  She's a cutie.

I had placed an order for something to be made for me - and wouldn't you know it - it was screwed up, although I had 'approved' the draft/proof.  But I did write the company and told them what had happened and asked, 'how can we fix this?' - and I got an email this morning that they are re-doing my order.  Now THAT is customer service, and it is making me feel so much better.  I've ordered from this company before without any problems. Glad they are fixing this one.  Not telling what - who knows - you may get it for Christmas. :-)  Or not.

Yesterday was a busy day with having to schedule meetings - and I was exhausted last night.  I didn't get to do 'girls' night out' and then hubby got a call from his friend that he was staying home - so we both were home last night.  I kind of sunk into depression, I think, for I was thinking of just having a quiet evening at home alone.  Well, I told hubby he was taking me out to dinner - and we ended up at Arby's (because I really wasn't hungry, and I was not going to cook).  Came back home, watched the news and I crochet'd. TV off for a short while - then he wanted to watch the basketball game and offered to put on the headset - but I told him it wasn't necessary.  I crochet'd for awhile, but decided to go to bed at 8PM.  I just really wanted to be alone.  But I did fall into a deep sleep and awoke about 5 or so hours later and then couldn't go to sleep.  Laid there and prayed for each of my children, their spouses, and the grand and great-grandchildren by name.  Finally dozed back off around 3AM-ish and then slept until about 4:15AM.  For some reason my watch isn't waking me up - am I really sleeping through it or am I shutting the alarm off?  I really don't HAVE to get up at 4AM, in fact, have been considering making it 5AM, but I know my body will wake up when it wants to anyway.

Today will be a very quiet day for work.  Two people are on vacation today, my favorite boss has an afternoon of doctor appointments, and will tell me to jump off around 2PM (she always does) or earlier, and the one she is blocked out of office as of 3PM.  Don't expect much to do today.  I may work on some of the Christmas gifts I never wrapped yesterday.  I need to put gas in my car and I want to run over to JoAnn's to pick up some yarn for an afghan I started last night.  Only have one skein of this yarn so need about 5-6 more to complete it.  I may just go online and have them ship it to me.  That works too.  It's unreal that tomorrow is Thanksgiving.

Colossians 3:15 (NKJV):  "And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which you also were called in one body; and be thankful."

Ironic I found that verse when I'm in a tizzy, huh!  But God can deliver peace, and He can even do it now - if I let Him.  That's what we do, though, isn't it?  We KNOW we can have peace about a situation because God is definitely in control of ALL situations - but when something goes against the grain - we get in a tizzy - and I'm no exception.  I'm still in a tizzy until it gets corrected, and then I'll be in a tizzy for awhile for I know I will hear about it from others.  And I can't defend.  

Looking forward to a couple days off work - actually, we get a four day weekend - too bad they are few and far between!  Christmas and New Years will be only a three day weekend - but I'll take it!  

In the meantime, hope your day keeps you out of tizzys and keeps you at peace. 

Blessings!

A day closer to Thanksgiving...

 Here it is Tuesday before Thanksgiving and I am still thinking of putting the thanksgiving dinner together.  Plans have already changed as far as location.  Granddaughter's in laws aren't coming now so it's been moved back to my daughter's house and it will 'just' be them, us, and the granddaughter's family.  I need to doublecheck, but I thought the SIL's brother was in town for Thanksgiving too.  Maybe they went back to California.  Doesn't matter.  MY designated menu to fix didn't change - I still have the turkey, dressing, and giblet gravy to make.  And that's ok.  You know how I love to be in the kitchen cooking for others.  That's my favorite thing to do.  

I actually cooked dinner last night - believe it or not!  I baked salmon and put tater tots in the air fryer (love how it crisps them up!) and then I cut up some cucumbers for the green veggie.  And it worked.  I was full and hubby didn't complain.  Why would he though... it was food someone fixed for him.  sigh.

I only got one gift wrapped yesterday - for the older great-granddaughter.  It's the only thing under the tree.  The remote dinosaur came in and although I ordered two of them, I noticed it has 6+ on the age so the little one will not be getting it.  As if she even needs any more toys.  And I am trying to cut back on purchases.  I have a lot of things arriving from Amazon today - most are my vitamin refills but I think a couple things are gifts.  I don't know if I have much more still on order from anywhere.  I've tried to cut back and allow things to arrive so I know where I'm at.  Which I will know, when I start wrapping and writing down what I have gotten for whom.  

There is nothing hubby or I need but I still must find something for him.  He has been fussing at me to give him a list - I just tell him 'whatever' and make it a size large.  Suggested pajamas cause I love pajamas, but he complained I had so many - (so? and what's the problem with that?) - but I do plan to weed out the older ones and get rid of them after the holidays. You know, part of the declutter process.  Some have coffee stains on when I dribble my coffee and he doesn't bother to spray before washing.  Pajamas are always a safe gift.  You can never have too many.

I think my kids have finally reached that state too - you know, the one where "there is nothing I need".  They have found as well that during the year if you want or need it - you get it.  Come the holiday - there isn't much left.  Not even underwear.  I'm sitting here trying to think of some ideas.... and drawing a blank.  I'm low on body wash.... could use a new loofah as my other one is separating.  Love stationary on hand for when I write letters (yes, I still sometimes sit down and write letters!)  I want to get the Passion Translation of the Bible.  The books are being translated so not many are in one book.  There is a new one coming out sometime in December - but will wait on getting it.  TPT or The Passion Translation is what it is - for any who are searching for ideas.  I don't have any right now - had gotten one that had several books together, but gave it to hubby for a gift.  I love the way it reads.  Some day I will get the entire set, but willing to take a few at a time to read.  That would be great to start the new year out with a new translation.  (just an idea I'm throwing out).  Kettle bells (exercise) are also an idea.  I sometimes will 'sneak' into the "workout room" while hubby is doing his homework and grab a barbell or two and do a few reps.  I just don't need him watching me - so I go when he's busy and just do a few and then run back in here to work.  Telling my 'secrets' here..........  I just like doing things without comments or being watched.  Hubby does love to eat so snacks and gift cards to restaurants make him happy.  Maybe an Amazon gift card (or B&N) where he can buy his own books instead of telling me what he wants and expects me to buy it (which I do).

Acts 2:44 (NKJV):  "Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided among them all, as anyone had need."

I've been reading here in the mornings the book Letters to the Church by Frances Chan.  It's really very interesting.  He left this huge megachurch that he built up - and went to Asia for several years.  He knew there was something more than 'doing church' the way we do it in America.  In other countries, they do what the early church did - they loved each other and took care of each other as a need would come up.  Our churches in the US have become standardized, if you will.  An hour for the service, an hour for Sunday school - if they even have it - (or just two worship services and two SS for the children) - and then people leave and go home.  There is rarely any interaction during the week.  But what if, like the early church, we kept in contact with each other (heck, we don't even do this within our own families!) and as a need was made known, would help take care of it?  

For example, our church, it's a 1-1/2 hour to 2 hour service because the worship is at least 45 minutes and sometimes longer.  Our pastor had wanted to be a singer as he has a great voice, so many times he continues the worship when he gets on the stage for another 10-15 minutes.  Then 30-45 minutes for the message.  It's all good - although 'we' get disgruntled sometimes with the worship - when it looks more like a performance than worship, it is frustrating.  That's why I close my eyes when I worship.  I don't want to see people jumping up and down.  Anyway, we have a full church on Sunday mornings, as a rule.  But come Wednesday evening's Refuel - which is a prayer meeting (which is done a lot differently than I ever knew), and only 70 at most come - and it fluctuates between 50-70 I would say.  We don't even always go.  No Refuel this week due to the holiday - so no prayer?  What is our priority here?

We did fill up Thanksgiving fixings in a bag and donate as requested.... but how does that work with the earlier church in the New Testament?  As I read this book by Frances Chan, I wonder what our churches would look like if we were following what the New Testament disciples did.  Could we / would we sell things to make sure others had food?  Would we open our homes to those who needed a place to stay?  Would we make sure medical care was available to those who needed it?  Would we feed them spiritually as well as physically?  What would living like the early church look like in our modern world?

Maybe it is something we as individuals need to think about.  I'm just as guilty.  I'm over-cautious about inviting people over - unless hubby knows them and agrees.  He's not as open as I am - to anyone coming over.  And heaven help us if there isn't enough room around the table and they want to sit in a chair - or spill something on the carpet - or Lord help if they sit in HIS recliner!  We have to move beyond 'mine' and share all we have.  I prefer my kids to tell me things they'd like to have when I'm gone - and if I'm not in need of it, I'd be perfectly happy to let them have it now, to ensure they get it.  Once I'm gone - if hubby is gone - I don't want anyone fighting over anything.  It's all just 'stuff'.  But if in that 'stuff' is something, a memory, that one would want, I'd love to let them have it now.

Time has gotten away from me again as I have rambled on this morning.  Need to get on the work computer and finish this off.  But something I leave you with.... what could you do to show love to others and be the early church to them?

Blessings!

Yes, I put my tree up yesterday!

 I was determined to get something productive done yesterday and I was able to get some things completed.  For one, I got all my cups, saucers, and teapots brought into the house from the car and put back up on the shelf.  I found I am missing one cup, and a cup I thought was missing, was found.  Realized I forgot some things at my daughters, which I will pick up tomorrow night.  I pulled out Christmas things out of the cabinets int he garage... determined I was going to get rid of some things but not sure just what yet.... and pulled the tree out.  Hubby 'helped' me put the tree together and I put minimal decorations on it.  Realized last night that I had poinsettia garland out in one of the containers still in the garage and will pull that out today to put on it.  The tree is up, and lights are working. Too short to put the star at the top and didn't want to get the stool - so need to fix that some time when hubby is gone or someone much taller than me can somehow get it to stay at the top.  They just don't make these trees to have a place to put something on the top!  Now I can start wrapping the gifts in here, writing down the contents and to whom, and then get under the tree and out of here!  

I have several boxes sitting out of the cabinets in front of my car in the garage - with the intention of going through them and making decisions as to what to do with them.  The Christmas stuff will be easy; either I use it this year or get rid of it.  What I am referring to is all the bears and stuff I used to have setting out.  I do have one on a 'train' - that is for a grandson and I believe I have already written his name on it.  I may see if they will take it this year.  He was my little trainlover since my big brother passed away.  I had bought it because of my big brother, but knowing this grandson loved trains, I wanted him to have it.  I'm letting things go.

I also was able to go visit Ms. Diane for a little while yesterday and caught up with her.  She had noticed it had been a while (at least a month or more) since I had been there.  Ms. Vicky was leaving yesterday when I was unloading my car of the cups/saucers, so talked with her a bit.  I had planned to go visit her as well yesterday, but she said that she wouldn't be home.  AND she dropped the bomb that she has a roommate now.  She's female, and we've seen her, but assumed it was someone visiting.  Her car had been sitting in the driveway for a few days.  Ms. Vicky wants me to meet her, but even she doesn't know her very well.  She is a 'friend of a friend' who needed a place to live and couldn't afford anything on her own.  And, Ms. Vicky needs help financially as well.  I know she just has social security and she has had to really tighten the belt lately.  I hope it works out for her, but she isn' t so sure just yet.  Nor would I be.  A stranger invading my space?  Even part of it?  Not sure if I would react.  But, one must do what one must do.  I may be in that situation some time.

Church went well yesterday (thank You, Jesus!) and of course we had to go out to eat afterwards.  And hubby wonders why he can't lose weight.... and I struggle constantly with mine!   We went to a place at 59th Ave & Bell, down the row from Walmart, called Times Square.  Food wasn't bad - coffee was bland.  I had biscuits and gravy and eggs and bacon; hubby had an omelet and fried potatoes.  I am positive Ron's was much better!  

Thanksgiving week - working only 3 days this week and I'm happy about that.  Still need to get those meeting minutes typed, as my oldest son reminded me on Saturday.  Maybe today.  Get them out of my way - I do need to get them done, just stop procrastinating and do it, right?   Need to plan out when I'll get started on the parts of the dinner I am to fix and take to the granddaughter's.  Which reminds me, my two granddaughters I saw on Saturday will be bringing their little ones and coming over the afternoon of December 17th to bake cookies - and I'm thrilled.  Glad the two are reconnecting and their little ones getting to know each other.  Four years difference in the little ones.  Not sure about the older ones - seven years perhaps? Don't remember how old either one are.  Age is just a number anyway - right?

Gather together.... that was what came to mind this morning as I thought about a scripture to use.  But, cannot think of a specific scripture that I want to use.  But what about gathering together?  Yes, we did it on Saturday for the birthday party.  Gather together can mean so many things. Gathering 'things' together, gathering 'people' together.... but it is the 'gathering' I think I'm thinking about.  I love being around family and miss the gathering of all.  With this small house, no way could it handle everyone.  Hubby wouldn't go along with it anyway.  

Even with thinking about teaching a small group in our home, he has stated no more than six more people.  In other words, three couples.  AND he really wants to 'select' whom to invite.  Which he can't, regardless of what he might think.  He can't control EVERY-thing, although he does try to.  Definitely can't control me most of the time - he may think he does, but I rebel - albeit sometimes internally!  Don't tell me I can't eat that cookie!  I will hide it under my shirt and go to the bathroom and enjoy it!  LOL  

Reminds me, I think I had shared that I had joined a 'Declutter Group' on Facebook.  I chuckle as I read some of the things people have written.  They are busy 'decluttering' their house and good for them!  I 'lost'/decluttered a lot when we moved - and yes, I still have a lot I could get rid of.  (I'm working on it - in MY time)  Some have shared that as they have cleaned out cabinets, they have found hidden bags of candy they had forgotten about - been there so long it had hardened!  That cracks me up.  I do have some candy in the candy dish on the table that has harden.  How do I know?  I've tried to eat them! I really do need to dump those few that are left and get fresh ones.  Sometimes I just want that piece of sugar and chocolate.  And don't tell me I can't cause I will go buy a BIG bar and eat the entire thing sitting out in the parking lot!  Truth!  (or confession)  I have bought a Little Debbie's brownies and have sat in the parking lot (now this was many years ago!!) and ate the entire box so that I could throw away the box in the dumpster when I got home and not get chewed out because I was eating something I shouldn't.  So don't tell me I can't have it - I will show you!  And the size of my body proves my statements!

And with that confession, I need to get off this computer, get dressed, and get on my work computer.  I think I have a meeting today with my boss - we just catch up on our lives, but she has to 'touchbase' at least once a month for work purposes.  December lst we are taking the day off work and going to the Christmas Ideas house (as we have the last 4-5 years).  And, wouldn't you know it, the company is having our 'Christmas Party' that very day in Mesa.  I would normally drive down there and participate - but nope, not that day.  I have PTO and I have plans!   My boss already bought our tickets (I think they are about $70 a piece!) as part of my Christmas.  It's our special time.  Then we will have our 'admin meeting' at Wildflower on December 22nd so that I can give her the 'Christmas goodies' I make - salsa, pickles, cheeseball, etc. so that she can have for the holiday for her family.  It's traditional anymore and I love supplying it for her.

Ok - gotta go - have a blessed day - and be a -

Blessing!

It was a good day

 I couldn't believe we were lucky enough to have the rain stop yesterday as we went to the dinosaur tea party.  It was a good day.  The party went well; lots of sandwiches (I really shouldn't have been concerned, there were more than enough) and lots of cake for everyone.   The birthday princess had fun playing with her cousin who came up to see her and another little friend.   I enjoyed seeing not only the little cousins playing together, but their parents spending time together.  And I got to see my oldest son, which is always a treat for me.

It was mid-afternoon when we finally left.  Lucky for me, someone else washed my teacups and teapots so I loaded them up in the boxes and put back in my car.  Know what?  They are still there.  By the time we got home, I told hubby I would take them out today and put back up on the shelf in the kitchen.  I knew I didn't want to bring the boxes in yesterday as I'd feel the need to put back - and I just wasn't in the mood.  So today I will get things put back away.  Yeah, I felt lazy.

Today is Sunday and I will be speaking at one of the RV parks.  I went over the message a couple times last night, and again early this morning.  Made some more changes, as I often do.  I think I'm ready.  But it's the first one of the season and I'm always a little bit anxious.  But, I love these friends at the RV park so it won't be bad at all.  When I finish this, I'll jump in the shower and start the getting ready.  Yes, it's still early - but we need to be there about 8:30AM.  Good thing it isn't that far away.   Next month the first one is up north a bit, and the second one back down here.  Got to start looking for something to speak on for next month - two different locations so can use the same one.  But I still have to find one.

Also got some cooking baking scheduled for December 17th with my two beautiful granddaughters and their daughters.  They asked if they could meet up together and bake together - and of course I said yes!  Just let me know what they wanted to bake and I'd make sure I have the ingredients on hand.  Fun time for them - and for me.  So looking forward to hanging out with them.

The main scripture I'm speaking on today is John 15:1-8 - but focusing on John 15:5.  I'm sure you have heard the verse before.

John 15:5 (NKJV):  "I am the vine, you are the branches.  He who abides in me, and I in him, will bear much fruit; for without Me, you can do nothing."

It's like the story of a young man who got up on the stage and quote the 23rd Psalm.  He got all kinds of applause and glory.  Then an older man got up and quoted the very same 23rd Psalm.  There was silent awe.  When asked why the different reaction for the same psalm, when he had spoken it so well, the young man replied...

"I know the psalm.... he knows the Shepherd."

Do you know the Shepherd?  Grab your bibles and read the 23rd Psalm this morning.  What does it say to you?  Do you really know how much our Shepherd loves and cares for you?  He does.  Give Him some of your time this morning; turn your eyes upon Jesus.

Blessings!

The rain in tumbling down...

 In fact, I think it just started a few minutes ago - and my first thought, because it sounds like a good steady rain, is that the cushions are on the chairs outside.  Oops.  Nope, not going to run out in my jammies and grab them off the chairs.  They can just get wet - and dry out when the sun comes out - which may not be for another day or two.  It is what it is.  

Today will be a busy day as I will need to start getting in the shower soon (or go stand out in the rain?  Naw, too cold!) and figure out all the things that were running through my mind as I tried to sleep last night (besides the Hawaii 5-0 that was on the TV before we went to bed.  Sigh).  Today is the Dinosaur Birthday party.  And, because of the rain, it will be indoors instead of outside.  Tables were set up last night but because of the cats, couldn't get them set up.  I took over about 30 teacups, although we didn't need that many, and 10 teapots.  I will be going over early to help set the tables.  And, after I was thinking about it during the night, I need to take sugar for those who use sugar in their tea, and perhaps some honey to set on the tables.  I'm concerned about the sandwiches, since I didn't have a hand in it.  I don't think this person has been to a tea party before.  I'm tempted to make some chicken salad and keep in a bowl and get a loaf of bread to take 'just in case'.  But I cannot.  I do not want them to feel I'm intervening in their area. I'm sure they are well aware of the number of people who RSVP'd....  but I know people and they love to eat.  Tea parties are not known for lots of food.  You get sandwiches (and I didn't hear scones mentioned so don't think they will be there - and they are my favorite!)  and the sandwiches are usually cut into quarters.  I want to help if needed, but I am learning to keep my hands off and let other people do what they want to accomplish - without my intervention.  It's all good.  We'll also have cupcakes. And there will be dinosaurs all around.  And I'll be wearing my dinosaur dress.  With a sweater.

I'm hoping I'm not tired when this is over so that I can get our tree up this afternoon.  It was kind of funny yesterday.... this little birthday princess came over yesterday while grandpa fixed a light that had gone out on the garage.  She walks in and sees the reading nook I had bought for ALL the grandchildren moved to another room.  She didn't like that.  She kept telling me "move back!" and pointing to where it should be.  I explained that the Christmas tree would be there so I couldn't move it back. Didn't make any difference.  It wasn't where it should be.  Then she noticed the 'lene' was missing.  She kept asking "where lene?  Jump!" and I realized she was talking about the little trampoline I have that she likes to jump on when she comes over.  Well, I had moved that to the garage and put the weight bench where it was so that I could put the reading nook where the weight bench was.  That didn't make her happy either. Oma had moved things around and things were not in their right place!  But we made her happy with a chocolate ice cream push up - until she dropped it on the carpet and it went in the trash.  Changes are hard!

Sounds like the rain has stopped already.  That lasted all of 7 minutes, perhaps.  At least I don't hear it, but I do hear thunder. It could still be raining quietly, but more than likely, it has moved on.

Tomorrow, I start the speaking at the RV park.  I have the message typed out and have gone over it once, so tonight I will need to focus on it and get it down.  I'm more concerned about an ocular migraine happening (it blocks my vision with the lightning bolts on the sides) or that I will have to wear my glasses while reading it.  Depends on how far away the podium is - first time since I had the cataract surgery that I've spoken.  I'll have my glasses with me, regardless.  

John 17:17 (NKJV):  "Sanctify them by Your truth.  Your word is truth."

God's children participate in His sanctifying activity by resisting the evil one and living out the truth found in the Word.  They are sanctified so that Christ can send them into the world to spread the gospel.  Just because we read the Bible and believe it, doesn't mean that we are 'sanctified'.  We also have to live out what we read and live it.  We share the Word by how we live, the words we say, and by what we do. It's amazing how some people say one thing and live another.  I'm not perfect, so I'm not pointing fingers by any means.  I screw up all the time and have to ask for forgiveness.  But I strive to be whom God has called me to be.  Never give up.  Keep striving.  God's not finished with me, nor with you.

Ah, I hear the light drip of the rain again.  Perhaps it is a soft steady rain, hopefully just soaking in to the ground.  Which means, because it is raining, once I wash my hair, dry it, and put it up - it will quickly go straight.  My hair is sooooo straight.  It just won't hold a curl for very long - and I don't like using a lot of hair spray.  My hairdresser told me to use lots of hair spray to hold it - but I just can't.  I'd have to wash it every day if I did that.  I don't need curls that bad!

Today, Lord, I thank you for the rain.  Even though it messes up the birthday party and it will be crowded inside the house, I'm grateful that the grass and the flowers and the trees are being watered so that they will grow and become beautiful.  My roses have come back to life somewhat since the tough summer they went through. I was beginning to think they were going to die, but new life and new roses have appeared. Thank you for their beauty and their fragrance.  Thank You for the cooler air as well.  I hear the rain falling a bit harder now, I pray for no flooding as we attempt to drive to places we need to go today.  Lord, please take care of each vehicle that is driving to the party; be with each person driving, that they will be safe.  I pray today will be a good day, Lord.  Cover us, guide us, direct us, and always keep us in the palm of your hand.  Amen.

Blessings!

Yes I know I heard it...

 It was about 1:15AM this morning and I heard a voice spoken in my ear.... and it was the name of which we call one of our grandsons.  Now we used to call his dad that too, so what did I do?  It woke me up, of course, and I thought about what a possibility could be - didn't come up with anything, so just began to pray for that grandchild AND that father, for protection, for wisdom, for everything that came to mind. I probably will never know if anything was happening.... because it could be that because I prayed, nothing did happen; that God adverted that situation.  I don't know. 

Parents - be alert.  If the Holy Spirit wakes you up in the middle of the night with a name in your ear, please wake yourself up long enough to pray for that person!  You never know if you have been able to advert a situation that could be harmful. You could also keep them from making a mistake.  No matter what the hour, pray.  Pray unceasingly.  

I hear hubby in the other room getting ready for his Bible study this morning.  Besides working, I need to take a break and go over to the grocery and pick up a turkey for next week.  Plus things for the dressing and giblet gravy as I don't want to get in the crowds next week.  Then again, there may not be that many.  Most will pick up when they do their grocery shopping this weekend.  I don't think I'll need to get a big turkey because there will be ham as well.  Most will go for the ham.  Hubby has also given me instructions I cannot get the ladder out of the garage and climb on it to get my teacups down from the ledge they are on.  It's easier to let him 'win' on this one than me slipping and dropping a cup and shattering it, trying to do it on my own.  I did try the stepstool yesterday - just to see if I needed the ladder, and yeah, I'm too short.   Need the ladder for about another foot.

I sure am hoping to get our tree up this weekend so that I can start clearing out this room.  I know a lot of things that I have bought and who they are for.... but there are some things I don't know if I bought them or just thought about it.  38 days until Christmas.  I'm not worried, as long as I have one thing for each one.  I try to put thought in to each gift, regardless of what it is.  Sometimes I buy things for myself and then think, 'why did you get that?' and wonder who I can give it to. LOL  i.e., my tool set.  Good starter set.  Wonder if one of the grandsons could use it.  I'll have to check with the dads.  I really don't need it.  I use a tool about once every six months.  And not when hubby is home.

2 Timothy 1:3 (NKJV):  "I think God, whom I serve with a clear conscience, as my forefathers did, as unceasing I remember you in my prayers night and day."

How would you feel if someone told you that they were praying for you unceasingly?  What would you think that meant?  My interpretation?  I don't think it means someone stays on their knees night and day (unless the circumstances warrant it) praying specifically for you..... but I do believe that God will lay someone on your heart and mind and if He does that, you are to pray for them - even a sentence prayer - right then.  Many of us are not able to spend hours in prayer.  So how can we pray unceasingly?  By saying a prayer every time that person or situation comes to mind.  Yes, even YOU can do it!  I frequently whisper 'Lord Help!' and that too, in itself, is a prayer.  He knows every need before we even speak it.  But He loves us to share our thoughts and needs and wants with Him.  He's a good, good Father.

And, as I shared yesterday, we also Thank God for His answer (or non answer) as we ask for those things.  He loves it when we ask for things, but He also loves it when we acknowledge our thanks to the One who can provide all things for us.

I'm still reading in Ezekiel this morning and wow.  I don't think I could be a prophet back in those days.  God used them as examples, and each one's life was very difficult.  Ezekiel just lost his wife, God told him she was going to be taken from him.  And he was told he couldn't mourn for her. In fact, God made him mute for a time.  Why all that example?  Because God was showing how Israel was the desire of His heart and she was breaking His heart by her idol worship and turning away from Him.  

Reminds me of the scripture where it says (in my own words) why would we cut down a tree, make firewood out of part of it, then carve a face in another part - and then fall down and worship it?  Isn't that stupid?  I'm so glad I know my God is the CREATOR of all things, of that tree that some worship.  We are the Createe.... God is the Creator... and He alone is the One we are to worship. Hallelujah!

It's going to be a busy weekend.  Yet, it will be a fun one.  I sure hope I push myself to get done all that I want to get done.  I've had a tendency lately to just be lazy and not do anything.  Using hubby as an excuse (although the issues are real) not to do something.  Most times I just don't want to deal with the questions of 'why are you doing that?  'Why can't I help?' " why why why"  UGH.  I just want to do it myself!  Unless one of my kids or grandchildren come over and of course they can help!  OOPS.  Yeah, I tend to show favoritism, I think.  LOL

And with that - I need to stop rambling and go sit at my computer - the work computer, that is.  It's turned on and I have several messages to go through already.  I know there are a couple meetings I have to get scheduled.  And I still haven't typed out the board minutes yet.  Surely I can get it all done today.  Maybe.  Will see.  Perhaps.  UGH.

Have an awesome day - and until tomorrow....

Blessings!

Sometimes it is a novel thought....

 How many times have we prayed the same prayer over and over - every.single.day - and nothing happens?  We just keep asking.  I know - I have done it.  I get caught up in the 'asking', that sometimes I forget to thank in advance of what He can do.  Are you following along with me?

Perhaps you want to lose weight.  You've done your duty; you have cut back on carbs, on sugar, and all the other good things you like to eat.... and nothing has happened for weeks.  You took to walking to help.  Still, very little changed.  You have been seeking for God's help in your weight loss.  You keep asking Him to drop the weight off.... and nothing has happened.  Same o prayer, same o answer - none.  So what should we do to perhaps change that?

How about instead of ASKING (once again) for God to drop the weight off, how about THANKING Him for the weight falling off?  Do you not realize that He is the One who created you in His image?  That He is the One who breathed into you to give you life?  Do you not think that He can do anything else?  I know, you have asked for years - and nothing.  So - change it!  Thank Him that the weight is going to fall off - as you continue to exercise and eat right.  (and having an ice cream once in awhile is NOT bad!)

Quit praying and asking - start surrendering and thanking!

Instead of complaining that God isn't answering our prayers, let's thank Him for the answer!  It is all in His timeframe, after all!  We don't see the big picture; we don't know what plan there is for the future.  But this we do know -

Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV):  "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope."

Surrender what you want to ask for!  Want peace in your family?  Thank God that He loves you and loves your family unit, and that you know He wants only the best for you.  Thank Him that He provides for your family - whether great or small - and that He meets your needs.  Need a job?  Thank Him for providing that job.  Need groceries?  Thank Him that He will cause groceries to be provided or a way to get them.  

Our God loves us so much that He will do just about anything for you - in alignment with His Word.  His Word is never wrong.  We need to perhaps open our eyes to see what God does FOR us - even though we may not have asked for it - and never feel we got the answer.  We have to trust God that all things are done in His timing, not ours.

Let's do prayer differently.  Let's pray and THANK God for all He does for us.  The things we are aware of; the things we are not.  Thank Him for taking care of our children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren - and meeting their needs that we know not of.  Let's praise Him instead of holding our hand out. 

I have a granddaughter who has been in a difficult situation for a little while; I don't even know how long it has been going on... but she asked for prayer not long ago... not that I was the only one praying, for I'm sure her mama was as well!  But it was with rejoicing that I heard God had answered our prayers for relief and she could see the 'light at the end of the tunnel'.  Praise God!  In all things, give Him thanks!  Even things we aren't aware of that perhaps only needed one prayer added.

Kind of like my message for Sunday - more on that another day.  Yep - our RV park preaching is starting up this week.  Stay tuned!  Neat thing happened at prayer meeting last night, though.  We were talking to our pastor and mentioned that we would not be at church on Sunday - and we explained I would be speaking/preaching at an RV park.  We had told him about it when we had met for lunch a year ago.  Pastor Patrick grabbed my hand and started praying over me - and his words were awesome - and I loved that he said something about 'testimonies that will come from the message given'.  I always pray that God will take what is spoken and use it for His glory alone.  Based on what I shared above, I guess I just need to 'thank Him' for the Word He has me speak and that it falls on listening ears that hear.

Oops - time is up and I need to get my work computer on!  Thank You, Lord, for giving each person reading this mixed up blog and for blessing their day, meeting their needs, and providing all that they desire.  Thank you Lord, for loving them, for caring for them, for all You do for them.  You are Holy, You are Sovereign, You are mighty.  Hallelujah to You, O God!

Blessings!

40 days until Christmas....

 Yep - I have the count-down on my watch and it tells me every day how many days to go.  And I'm not stressing at all.  Like I said, I have cut way back this year and am not buying like I have in the past.  At least thus far.  And, I haven't hit the stores - yet.  May not, if I can keep from it.  Hubby mentioned something he 'needed' last night so I will go to the store and look for that - some things you just can't order online.  Good excuse to go shopping by myself - right? :-)  And I'd rather go shopping when it isn't crowded - although all these 'black Friday' sales are happening already - stores are desperate for sales to stay afloat.  I heard rumor Kohls was eliminating some departments in their stores.  Macy's has cut back too.  I really don't care.... even though I shop at both places.... there is nothing I need and no one has told me (other than hubby the one thing last night) that they want - so, they get whatever I get them.  I try to make it unique and special for each one... but sometimes, when I don't see them all year an no contact, I have no clue what size they even are.  Oh well - they get what they get.  It may be a box of nuts!

I switched my musical clock on the wall to Christmas tunes yesterday.  Yeah, I'm starting to gear up for the holiday.  If I don't get the tree up this weekend; it will be up by next weekend.  Goal?  Not only to get the tree up, but to clear out this room and figure out what I have already bought!  Got my sister's things wrapped yesterday as I am 'done' with her - just need to buy a little something for her hubby and then that box will go out a couple days after Thanksgiving.  Or I may wait until December 1 to send it.  Just to make her wait until December to open it.  Not much for her this year either, but a couple things I heard she needed. Nope, not December 1.... just remembered my boss and I are going to the Christmas House that day.  A day off work with my boss - fun times!

Hubby was in 'one of those moods' yesterday.  He kept coming either in to the room and sit down to share his thoughts with me, or stand at the door because he was bored.  It drives me crazy as I am working and it forces me to stop to see what he wants.  Most times it isn't a big deal, because working from home I do have more time to 'spare'.  But if he sees I ignore him and keep working, I get the "well, I see you are working so I'll leave."  I don't know what he would be doing if I was in the office every day - would he even remain sane?   Today he has an eye doctor's appointment downtown - the one where he went last week and they messed up his appointment - they gave him the paper with that date, but in their books they wrote this week.  So back this week he goes.  All the way downtown.  He's not happy about that.  But he will be gone a couple hours this morning. 

The dinosaur tea party is this Saturday - and I heard we are to have rain.  Plans are being made to move inside versus having outside as planned.  It will be a bit crowded..... right now it's up to about 28 people I think.  So - I will be taking down some of my teacups and teapots to wash and take over.  I may take over Friday night so that I don't have to worry about them Saturday morning.  I already have a task to do that morning so will be going over early.  I have bought little jars to fill with honey as a party favor. Oh yeah - I still need to go get the tablecloths at the dollar store yet.  I am not taking my good ones.  I may take a break and run down there today.  Gives me a place to go on a break.

Psalm 42:1 (NKJV):  "As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for you, O God."

Have you ever wanted something so badly that you 'panteth' after it?  That you really, really, really wanted it?  That you have such a deep yeaning in your heart to have it?  That it is all you can think about?

That is what this verse implies.  Think about it.  Do you want God so much, that it is like a deer who is in desperate need of water.... that your heart is in desperate need of God's presence.

Isn't that where you want to always be?  I love the song that came out years ago - Breathe by Michael W. Smith.

'This is the air I breathe / This is the air I breathe / Your Holy Presence livin' in me / This is my daily bread / This is my daily bread / Your very word / spoken to me. / 

And I, I'm desperate for You / And I, I'm lost without You / 

I love that song and whenever I would hear it (and still do) I return to that desperate state of needing God's Presence within me.  To feel Him, to know He is there.  He is always there, but I sometimes just need the reassurance.  Know what I mean?

Especially when times are hard; words are spoken; attitudes surround me.... and I'm broken-hearted and it comes up within me... I can fall back on this song and know that He knows I'm more desperate for Him than ever.  That I need Him more than ever.  That I am truly lost without His comfort and peace within me.  That I am empty without Him.

And so are you.  Jesus is the absolute fulfillment of all that we could ever hope for or desire.  He supplies every need; every emotion; every thing.  Are you desperate for Him?  Seek Him this season.  It's time to be thankful - for all He has given you; for all He has supplied for you; for His forgiveness; His favor; His answers to our prayers.  Rejoice in Him, for after we go through the season of thankfulness to Him for His provisions, we get to rejoice and celebrate with Him in His birth.

And because of His birth - we have rebirth in and through Him.  Hallelujah!  Prepare your heart - now is the time to turn to Him.  Let Him have His way in your life.

Blessings!