Back to routine....

 The Labor Day holiday is over and I'm back to work today.  Starting out at 7a on the work computer, then 8a I will be at the gym being tortured by Morgan.  Ok, maybe 'tortured' isn't the correct word.  It's upper body today so probably biceps/triceps... I think it was back last week and shoulders the time before that.  We have a 'set' routine - upper body / legs / core / HIIT.  I go twice a week, as a rule, so this week is upper body and legs.  Next week will be core and HIIT.  If I get a third workout in, it just gets moved up whatever is next.  Back to the 'top' this week.

We did absolutely nothing this weekend.  Yesterday I stayed in here until about 10a then told hubby 'let's go to 'Bobby's' for brunch.  I got the pancake combo; he got the Denver omelet - which he said was the best he has ever had.  Surprising, cause he gets them all the time everywhere we go.  Anyway, my pancake was the best I've ever had!  I don't know how they fix them there, but this is the second time I've gotten pancakes and they have been delicious both times.  I really love their burgers - will go for lunch next time.  They are only open breakfast and lunch at this time.  Food is really good; we haven't found anything we didn't like.  The co-owner is such a sweetheart and we always see her when we go.  She was talking to another customer yesterday when she saw us and immediately came over to give us a hug and to chat.  

Coming home, hubby tells me he isn't going to watch any ballgames; we could read all day if I wanted. Heck yeah!  I finished up 'One Night with the King' by Tommy Tenney and got started on 'The Great Disappearance' by Dr. David Jeremiah.  I knew hubby couldn't stand it... he did turn the TV on for the news, stating we need to know what is going on in the world.  No biggie. I put on my headset and listened to a few more chapters from The High Five Habit by Mel Robbins.  I think I have 5 more chapters to go in it so hopefully will finish it sometime this week.  It takes longer to listen to a book than it does for me to read it - there are pauses between chapters.  But that's ok. I crochet and listen to it. I'm still busy.

Hubby has his usual Tuesday night with his friend - unless the friend calls that he is exhausted.  He did a turnaround trip to California this weekend with his wife; they were to get back yesterday.  He has a hard job. He makes cabinets by hand in this company, and from what I understand, there is no air conditioning; they only have swamp coolers.  He comes home every night completely exhausted from sweating all day. I guess some of you men an relate; I have no clue about that.  I'm a princess (cough cough) and I don't sweat.  I glisten. Unless I'm working out; Morgan has broken that myth. 

I can't believe I didn't even bake this weekend. Had the time; just didn't.  Still a little early to bake and put in the freezer for Christmas.  Straighten up this room?  No, didn't want to do that either. But, will need to get on it soon.  Still need to do several reviews for Amazon as well.  I've been very lazy in that area.  Ok - perhaps I should say 'as well as that area'.   

I should be getting my oldest son's birthday gifts in today.  I generally try to have things delivered on 'Amazon Tuesdays' rather than the next day or same day.  If they come before 5p, I can put together in a bag and take up to my DILove to give to him when she gets home.  I think he has a meeting at the VFW tonight anyway.  If they don't come before 5p, I'll figure out some way to get it to him.  Not much, but a gift, nevertheless.

I've got to stop doing some things, I've decided.  As you know, I love to give things away, whether it is buying something for someone specifically, having it and giving it away, or just letting them walk off with it because they want it.  Or they decide to just let me have my way and take it. :-)   Christmas will be here soon and I won't (and don't at the current time) have any ideas what to get them for Christmas!  Well, I guess that is one way to make it small, right?  I've said for years I need to cut back.  I want to give more for my kids for their birthdays - because they are my kids and as adults and parents, they usually do without so their kids can have.  Right? You know you do it too!  But the grandchildren, most get nothing from us for their birthdays other than a text.  My family keeps growing and I can only do so much.  So at Christmas, I like to spoil them as well.  Hence my always going 'overboard' even with unnecessary things.  I've got to get a grip and figure things out.  I'm not around some of the family much anymore so have no clue what they would want or need.  And my daughter tells me this weekend "you ae so hard to buy for!"  Say what?  I am not!  Although I know my oldest son has said the same thing. And I still say, "I am not hard to buy for!"  Think books. Think yarn. Think gift cards. Diamond Art - so what I still have some from last year - whenever I retire, I will have lots of time to work on them! See - I just gave you some ideas!  LOL  I love crystal dishes. Even those you find at the thrift store!  I had to give up a lot of my extra dishes when we moved.  Still, I do have limited room and have some things stored in the garage that I haven't used since... well, I don't remember when.

Psalm 40:1-3 (ESV):  I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord.

I often go to this scripture when I fam feeling down, when I feel all hope and all life is gone out from me. No, I'm not feeling quite that way today.  But sometimes, this is also a reminder, when I read it, of how our God is ready and willing to pull us out of the pit - the miry bog - that we find ourselves in.  A lot of times we find ourselves in a pit of despair.  I get that way often, as you are aware.  No one puts me there; (yes, hubby contributes to it!) but I allow myself to fall into it - and then cry out to God to get me out of it!  And He does.  He reminds me of His faithfulness.  He encourages me with His love.  His Word feeds the broken pieces within me and helps me find my steps on firm ground again.  Life is hard.  I will not even try to sugar-coat that!  Life is very had sometimes and I find myself falling many times into the pit due to life.  I hope we all don't do that, but I find it is more because I feel so isolated - from family at times, from friends.  If I was working outside the home, int he office, I wouldn't be this way, I am pretty sure.  I would have people to talk to in person. I would be laughing and joking around with others. I will be getting out and taking quick walks with friends.  I really 'hate' this isolation I am in.  I have mentally withdrawn to where it is hard at times to be with others.  It takes awhile for me to 'unfreeze' and become social again.  Are you like that as well?  Am I alone in this?  

As I wait on God to direct my path, I am confident He not only sees me, He hears me.  He knows my feelings.  He knows my brokenness. He knows every need I have.  He sees every tear, and puts them in the bottle of tears He has of mine.  I can be confident that He knows exactly what I am feeling, and knows what I need to do to dig my way out.  But I must be patient and wait on His timing.  He will provide all I need when I need it.  So I wait.  Sometimes not  patiently, but I don't want to get ahead of Jesus and make things hard.  I want His hand upon every part of my life.  It's the only way to live.

And with that, I need to get off here and get dressed; gym at 8a so need to leave by 7:30a and I need to work some before I do leave. Although my interim boss doesn't start work until 8a. When I told her that I occasionally take off for the gym throughout the day - using my 'lunch break' - she is all about wellness and from what I understood, 7-8a is her workout time.  I think she is a 'runner'.  Yeah, well, this body ain't 'running'.  Building my strength up by lifting weights.

Have an amazing day!  Wait for the Lord to move on your behalf; don't rush out and do your own things. God is not late; He is always right on time.

Blessingsz!

I actually finished two....

 Hubby left the TV off for most of the day yesterday - and I started and finished The Holy Wild by Mark Buchanan.  Hubby did end up putting on his headset and watched the baseball game towards the end.  After I finished that book, I moved to the couch (from the chair) and finished up God Chasers by Tommy Tenney.  I got more out of the God Chasers book then I did The Holy Wild. I mean, they both are great books, but because I read another book that Mark Buchanan had written and gotten so much out of it, I wasn't quite that impressed with The Holy Wild.  But then, someone else may get a lot out of it; I just didn't.  But I was able to close out two books on Goodreads which took me up to 31 out of 50, I think it was.  Somehow I'm two books ahead of 'schedule'?  Or something like that.  I hope I keep reading, I enjoy it a lot, but sometimes it just isn't possible.

I fixed dinner last night and of course hubby wanted to watch movies.  So we did. Two of them. But I had control of the remote so chose.  Both we had seen before.  Hubby had already slept through most of the afternoon ballgame, and I couldn't believe he fell asleep during the 2nd movie - of which he said was boring.  Ok - it's a chick flick; of course there are some that he finds boring.  I liked it.  I really couldn't believe that with all the time he slept in the afternoon - he slept all night long!  I don't know why I just couldn't stay asleep.  One of Forrest Frank's songs kept running through my mind - and this morning I can't even remember which one it was!  I don't know his songs well, but I like the catchy tunes.  I know I have dozed a couple times in here this morning, and that's ok.  It's Sunday and we don't go to church until noon.

I have several things I need/want to do today.  I didn't make it to Sam's Club because I chose to read instead.  But today, I probably should go over, plus I need to make scones for Tuesday. I may be able to make them tomorrow, but I'm afraid that if I push it off to tomorrow, something will happen and they won't get made.  I also want to run down to my granddaughter's and see her babies.  Somewhere in all that I need to feed hubby.  

Have you noticed how expensive it is going out to eat anymore?  Then add in a tip - and then I don't want to go out to eat. Not that I want to hoard any money, but I'll do fast food anytime (and even that adds up) and get by.... but hubby likes his 'meals'.  I think he is just 'old school'.  Right?  Wants sit-down meals instead of fast food.

This may be short today.... I'm sitting here and can't think of anything to write about.   I got a couple books in from Thriftbooks yesterday that I haven't read yet.  I may start one of them in the next day or two.  Once Sue's retirement party is over, perhaps. Right now I need to make sure I have done my part - I'm supplying all the plates, napkins, silverware, and cups..... I did buy about 50 from Amazon a couple weeks ago..... but I don't think I like them, which is why I want to go to Sam's Club and choose some. Then return these if they aren't needed.  Sue is pretty popular so am not sure how many people will arrive within that two hour timeframe we are having her 'party'.  I would not be surprised if there were 100 or more.  But still, I'm concerned more we may run out of food, for we don't have a count. I'm not organizing it; I'm just helping with it.  So does that mean 'it's not my problem'?

Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV):  Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

I sorta like how this is described:  For the unbeliever, "Seeing is believing."  For the believer, "Believing is seeing."   Faithful men and women show their faith in bold acts of trust in the Lord. Only by faith can we please God.  Faith helps us to understand the universe in a way that science cannot, giving particular insight into God as it's Creator and Designer.  There are so many men and women who made it into the 'Hall of Faith'.  Even Abel.  You remember him, right?  Cain was the older brother and he grabbed some of his garden to give to the Lord.  Abel, though, he brought the firstborn of the sheep and the fat portions.  Which do you remember that God loved?  Ah, yes, He loved Abel's gift because it was the first fruit of his flock.  But Cain, he just grabbed some crops and basically said, "here, God".  God rejected Cain's offering.... and you know the story.... in jealousy, Cain killed Abel one day.... and then Cain was sent away.

What are we bringing to God?  Will He accept our offering?  That's one reason why I (try) get up early in the mornings to spend time with God.  I want to give Him the first fruit of my day.   That's why I fast at the first of each year.  I want to give God the first fruit of my year.  To Him belongs everything I have.  Surely I can part with some of it.  And yes, I give him the first fruit of my paycheck too.  It all belongs to Him anyway.  He can take it away, or He can bless me with more.  I work for Him, not for the company.  (Yet, He hasn't told me to retire yet! Maybe He has a use for me yet.).  All we have belongs to Him.  I am just a steward of what I have.  Even my children are on loan from Him. 

So are you a 'seeing is believing' type of person - or 'believing is seeing'?  I have faith that God can do whatever He chooses to do, in His timeframe. Sometimes it is something I've prayed for. Sometimes it is something I haven't.  But I know that God is over all sickness, all health, all monies, all provisions.  Sometimes we don't have, don't get what we want, because we don't ask Him.

Do we know what we want?  Are we asking God for it - providing it is in His will?  Something to think about.

And, with that, I'm off here and in the shower.  Have an amazing Sunday.  Do something kind for someone.  Praise God.  Give Him all the glory that is due Him.  Be grateful.  

Blessings!

Tell yourself a good story

 When you woke up this morning, what did you tell yourself?  Did you tell yourself that your body was achy and sore?  Did you get up grumbling about how your head hurt, or how bad you feel?  And how did that affect your morning?  What if you stopped right now, and told yourself a different story?  What if you created a story in your mind that you may be achy and sore when you get up, but once you start moving you are feeling great!  You will find that when you tell yourself a positive story, that a load of heaviness will fall off your shoulders.  What if we started waking up with an outlook that "I'm alive to face a new day, praise God!"  (after all, what is the alternative?) and thank Him for awakening you!  

John 10:10 (ESV):  The thief comes to steal and kill and destroy.  I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

Oh the devil is always at work, trying to hurt us, to destroy us, to take from us.  As I was preparing the type that scripture - I kid you not - my mouse went flying off my try and onto the floor, where I would have to put the computer off my lap and get up out of my chair to get it!  And, my phone fell off the side of the chair next to the wastebasket!  I'm telling you, Satan doesn't want you to know how evil he is!  He doesn't want you to see his hand in destroying hope, destroying relationships, destroying marriages, destroying homes.  Don't stop believing in Jesus - the One who is greater in you than he who is in the world!

I'm speaking at the RV park here in town this morning.  I went through the message again yesterday, and have already again this morning.  It's a different type of message than I usually do, but I feel that God is wanting it spoken.  Perhaps He is wanting it spoken in my own life, for I can see how I can use this message as well.  And so can you.  So what is it about?  I probably shared in a previous post, but it is about reframing the stories we tell ourself.  And I don't know about you, but I have told myself some pretty powerful stories - and they weren't positive or good ones.  It doesn't mean what happens to us didn't happen, but sometimes, just sometimes, it helps when we know why.  

Ok - that's the second time I erased my paragraph and I don't have that much time this morning so guess I will just 'move along'.

Needles of Hope was good yesterday.  We meet at Panera and twice one of the employees came over to talk to us, and she even prayed with us at the end, when we pray over the shawls, blankets, booties and hats that we have to donate.  From there I went to get my hair done.  He cut it a bit shorter than I would want, but it will grow back.  It's darker than I want, but it will fade out and be just what I want as I wash it.  But my white around the edges is gone. :-)  I really don't care, but I do get a lot of compliments when I have my hair colored.  Something else that will go by the wayside once and if I ever retire.  I'm still flip-flopping on that.  

Coming home, since I was next to El Pollo Loco, I picked us up a bucket of chicken for dinner.  We ate while it was hot and then just kind of chilled.  Hubby finished watching whatever he watching and I worked on the message for this morning. I was slipping into a nap when Ms. Vicky called and asked if I could come over and visit - so I did.  Back home about an hour later, I was able to get a couple chapters read in 'Velvet Jesus' by Rob Bell.  Interesting book.  Not a novel, but a lot of abstract words. Enough to keep interest, but difficult to get through at times.  Only through two chapters before going to bed. Maybe I can get a bit more read this afternoon - except I do need to work on my part of the taxes.  It would be nice if I could get them done today.  Will see.  I do need to focus on that.  I have definitely been a procrastinator in pulling that information together.  Surprisingly, hubby didn't even mention me getting on it last night, but let me do some reading.

So that is how my day will be spent today.  Church at the RV park, and you know hubby will want to go for breakfast after.   Then home, and I might take a nap. Then the rest of the day on tax stuff.  Oh joy, right?  One has to do what one has to do!

So since I have nothing else to write about, and I do need to figure out what I'm wearing today and do something with this hair, I'm going to get off here.  Hope that you have an amazing day.  Tell yourself a good story, a true story, about what is going on around you.  Don't let the devil tear you down with his stories.  They are nothing but lies.

Blessings!

It was a cool thing...

 I went to church yesterday and looking around for the tithing envelopes that were usually setting out - but this day wasn't - I asked a lady at the reception desk where they were.  She didn't know, but she paused and looked at me and said, "What are you wearing?"  I knew what she meant cause I often get that question.  What was I wearing?  "Red Door" I responded.  She goes, "I knew it!  My grandmother used to wear Red Door!" I laughed cause I am old enough to BE her grandmother! (Ok, a young one)  She went on to explain, "My grandmother died 17 years ago and I always associate the smell of Red Door with her."  I think my 'smell' brought her good memories and joy.  I wonder if my children/grandchildren would remember the Red Door fragrance I have worn for years - and will continue to wear as long as I can get it.  I have nearly a full bottle right now and since I wear it infrequently with not going anywhere, it will last for awhile.

Reminds me that my little sister wears Beautiful by Este Lauder and has for several years.  And that is the reason she refuses to change; she says her grandchildren knows that is her 'smell'.  Whatever. LOL

I like Red Door because it blends with my body 'odor' and I frequently get compliments on how good I smell.  Much better than a sweat smell, right?

It's Monday all over again and this year is zooming past.  I think Amazon's prime days starts today  -  I usually don't even bother to look unless there is something I want to get - which there isn't.  Yes, I pay full price for a lot of things - but I get what I want when I want it.  I have no idea what to get anyone for Christmas this year; I expect none of them need anything.  Like me, if they want it, they get it. End of story.  I feel foolish at times because I know I get something I 'think' they may like - only they politely smile and say 'thank you', knowing that it will go in a closet somewhere.  

How can one be part of a family and yet feel so 'out' of the family?  I feel it more and more.  And I will leave that there.

Yesterday was my daughter's 24th BMT birthday.  I made her a brownie cake.  I called, asked if I could pick up lunch and bring over... but there was a conflict with streaming the football game and losing the stream and other things going on that she didn't think it was a good idea.  Hubby was disappointed; he wanted me to buy lunch.  Instead he got fettuccini here at home.  No garlic bread.  Later in the afternoon I cut into that brownie cake and sent my daughter a photo - told her that I wanted a piece of cake and was going to enjoy it.  IF I saw her on Tuesday, she could have the rest.  She sent back 'lol'.  The cake was too rich and if she doesn't take it Tuesday, it will go in the trash.  I also cooked the brownie a bit too long and it was crunchy on the bottom.  Oh well.  Hubby and I ate a piece.  I think this is the first year, in 24 years, that I did not see my daughter on her birthday.  Not saying that to put her on a guilt trip.  Hubby knew I was disappointed (and I was, but not that much. Getting used to disappointments) and kept apologizing that I didn't get to see her.  It's all good.  It's another day and we move on, right?  Once broken, it's not important anymore.

I did absolutely nothing as far as baking (other than the brownie cake) and tearing up boxes, etc. or even cleaning this weekend. Well, I did mop the kitchen floor; couldn't stand it anymore.  I really thought I'd bake and work on different things.  I did not.  I already told you what I did Saturday.  As for yesterday, it was church, then just stayed home.  Hubby watched the football games with his headset on cause I wanted to read.  Finished Vanished by David Jeremiah.  I think I am at 42 books with 8 to go to meet my goal of 50 books for the year.  It still seems like a lot, although Goodreads says I'm five books ahead of 'schedule'.  Started on yet another book last night before heading to bed.  Stopped in between books and we watched a couple hours of NCIS reruns.  Reading must be good for me; I slept sound last night.

I still need to clean out my freezer to make room for baking for Christmas.  Will I do that today? I don't know. Part of me says 'yes'... but the lazy part says 'no'.  Who will win?

I'm covering for my boss's boss's admin this week as she has flown to Japan for her great niece's graduation from high school.  She does travel a lot; I think her husband is retired military and several family members are in the military so she flies a lot of places to visit.  And each time she goes, I get to cover for her.  Yay, me. :-)

I'm back to reading The Awe of God by John Bevere again in the mornings. Just a short chapter each morning - only this time I am reading it, and watching the 3 minute video on Messenger X that they have.  Only finished day 2 so haven't gotten very far in it.  The first time I read it I didn't watch the videos; just didn't bother.  But I asked my friend Lori, who recently taught the book in her Bible study on how did it go, and she told me that the girls really grew spiritually as they read and watch the video - moreso than any other Bible study they have done.  That encouraged me to go back and watch the video as I read through each chapter.  More on that another time, perhaps - if I remember.

I think these cooler mornings cause me to want to snuggle further into my blankets each morning.  I was in that semi stage this morning when hubby reached over to see if I was still in bed or up already.  Sigh.  I just rolled over and got up.  It was 4:30AM.  I am thinking I may change my 'getting up' time to 5AM.  But then, that first hour is generally me waking up and starting to read.  Hubby sleeps most days now to 5 or 5:30AM - and that doesn't matter to me - but he fusses he doesn't get my coffee in to me. I tell him I'm a 'big girl' and can get my own coffee - but it is something he has insisted on doing for many, many years; I'm not 'allowed' to get my own coffee (2nd cup I can) as he wants to do it. Not an issue to argue over, right?

Isaiah 26:4 (NIV):  Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.

Have you ever sat back and wondered if you really trusted God?  Scary thought, isn't it?  Do I trust God completely?  Do YOU trust God completely?  I will say, "Yes" I do trust God completely.  He is the Lord and I am not.  All things are in His hands, and all things that happen are by or through or allowed by Him.  There is nothing I can do to change a thing, but He can do all things.

I trust in the Lord for our finances.  I trust in the Lord for our health.  I trust in the Lord for His salvation.  I trust in Him for my life, and the lives of those I love.  There is no one like our God.  No ones loves us more than He does.  He Jehovah, God Almighty, El Shaddai, El Elyon (the God who sees me), Jehovah Jireh, my Provider, He is my all in all.  

And He is yours as well, if you will let Him.  Why not declare that the Lord, the Lord Himself, is your Rock eternal and on Him you will stand - in Him is your firm foundation.  Nothing can make you fall if you lean into, and depend up Jesus.

All praise, honor, and glory is His alone.  He does not share it with anyone or anything.  He is not 'man made' - like the idols that many worship.  People, clothes, jewelry, fame, prestige - these all fade away and are destroyed.  But Jesus..... He reigns forever and ever.

Blessings! 

Another Monday

 Could it be Monday already?  We had a quiet weekend.  The message from church was powerful.  It was based on the scripture Luke 5.  If I remember, I'll elaborate on it later this week - but for now, you take time to read it.  Then you will perhaps understand.... mean, aren't I?   I will give you a clue - mend your nets.  And there you have it.

'We' went to the grocery yesterday.  Yes, hubby wanted to go with me.  He's been especially clingy lately.  I told you the other day that after registering to go to a men's night at the church Friday night, he stayed home.  With me.  His reason?  He enjoys being with me more than being with a group of men.  Now don't throw up; it IS kind of sweet, isn't it?  It is getting to where he goes just about everywhere with me. Not that it is a bad thing, but this 24x7 gets to me at times, if you know what I mean.  Can I come up for air?  I'm only alone most times when he meets someone for breakfast/lunch or has his bible study or a doctor appointment.  People say that some day I will wish it to be like this.... but I don't think so.... 

I guess I will text my male boss when I start work this morning.  He wanted a meeting with some finance people before our next prep for one of the board meetings - and that prep is 8AM this morning.  When I saw his email over the weekend I sent him an email back that we had an 8AM prep - did he want to schedule a 7:30 although he may not get the others.... depends when they get online. He hasn't responded, which tells me he didn't get on the computer this weekend either.  He has never responded to my email to give me both board meetings.... and, the one I had, he had me cancel it (scheduled for 8/13) on Friday as we were not going to have a quorum.  That next board meeting is in November.  The one I don't want to really do is next Thursday morning at 6AM (our time) and is every other month.  I have convinced him to move it to once a quarter for 2026.

And since the year is over half past, I need to start extending meetings into 2026.  Can you believe it is approaching this fast?  If I start now, I can get times that I need.  It doesn't take long for the calendars to fill up.  I actually have done some like I'm not supposed to. We aren't supposed to leave the meeting end dates open ended - and I do - so that I don't have to worry about extending meetings - they are there forever and ever.  We're supposed to end-date them as of the end of the year.  Then we have to redo all the meetings to start in January.  Ok, so I'm lazy.  I'm actually thinking I'm pro-active.  Right?  IT doesn't want 'open ended' because they say it slows the systems down.  I do it anyway, and I have not been reprimanded. 

I was reading in a book this morning by John Bevere - The Awe of God, as I have the last several mornings (one chapter a day) and today it was about justification and sanctification.  He started out with a quote by R. C. Sproul.  "If you don't delight in the fact that your Father is holy, holy, holy, then you are spiritually dead. You may be in a church. You may go to a Christian school. But if there is no delight in your soul for the holiness of God, you don't know God. You don't love God. You're out of touch with God. You're asleep to his character."

Psalm 19:9 (NKJV):  The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever.

The primary definition of holiness is "separation unto God', and this certainly includes purity. When we repented and received Jesus Christ as our Lord, our sins were forgiven, and we were washed completely clean. God buried our sins in the sea of forgetfulness. He doesn't remember them! This work is complete, perfect, and cannot be improved upon. We did nothing to merit this amazing reality; it was a gift from God - this is the work of justification.

Holiness is a work of God's grace, but we must cooperation with the power He gives both to will and to do what He desires of us.  And God's grace is something none of us want to do without.  And it is so easy - just turn your thoughts to Him and ask Him.  Then choose to follow Him as best as you know how.  Don't get legalistic about following Jesus!  Following Jesus is easy.  Just love like Jesus loves, live like Jesus lived.  Look to Jesus as your example, and no one else. And if you aren't sure, ask Him!  He will show you the way in which you are to walk; you just need to ask Him.

Welp! Time is getting away from me - again - and I want to jump in the shower and wash my hair. So with that - I'm jumping off.

A new week; a new day.  What will you do with what is given to you?  Your choice.  Delight in God, and thank Him for being your loving heavenly Father.  There is no one like Him.

Blessings!

It was a good weekend

 Wow - first time we have ever done this!  If you have been reading along, you know that we watched part 1 and part 2 of The Chosen on Saturday, and part 3 on Sunday.  I don't normally go to shows at the theater so this was actually a sort of 'treat' for me.  Although I can't put on 'pause' to run to the potty and definitely don't drink anything - and because of the pricing, I don't buy any food or drink at the movies (not even popcorn, which I love movie popcorn!!).  Part 3 was as good as part 1 and 2 - and although I'm not 'hooked' as some are about watching The Chosen, I have enjoyed watching the movies.  And yes, I have seasons 1-4 on DVD already - and when season 5 comes out, I will purchase it as well.  I told hubby I would like to start with season 1 and take our time and go through each season.  I heard from my sister that season 6 was to be released around June, I think she said.  Sounds like another trip to the movies in June.  It actually was nice to have something to do and not just sit here at home, although we sat in another location.  

After grabbing a bite to eat at a restaurant on the way home, we sat at home.  Got a bit of reading in, and hubby eventually couldn't stand the quiet and asked if I wanted to watch a movie or NCIS.  I really do not care.  He finally turned on NCIS - which is ok.  But after watching a bit of that and doing my reading after he turned it off, I was suddenly exhausted and went to bed about 9PM. Not sure when he came to bed, but he woke me up slamming the foot part of his recliner down.  He tossed and turned during the night for some reason and that kept me awake. I did not want to get up this morning.  

And I am so looking forward to getting past this week because I am off work all next week!  Wahoo!!  Sunday-Monday-Tuesday with hubby, Wednesday I'm getting my hair trimmed and hopefully just get to have some me time, and Thursday-Friday-Saturday-Sunday will be up north on Jailbreak.  Wednesday is Admin Professional Day next week - I don't care if I get anything or not - but I hope they remember I am not working that day!  My male boss is taking Wed-Friday off, and my favorite boss is taking Thurs-Fri off.  She will remember, as she always does.  Him, not so much.  Another person I support will send me an Amazon e-gift card (or usually does for any gift) and the other doesn't even comment.  And it's ok.  Not being in the office just makes it harder to be 'recognized' - and I don't need it once a year, I get more out of the frequent "I appreciate your help with this.".  The company has what they call MVP cards (most valuable person, in case you couldn't figure that out) and they are free to employees to send to each other.  Last year my boss (the one I report up to) said that I got more than any in her department!  She gets a copy of everything that is sent to me.  Pretty cool, huh.  Maybe they will miss me when I finally get to retire?  

My original thought of a retirement date of January 10, 2025 fell through, obviously.  My favorite boss now has given me a date of August 1, 2026 for her retirement date.  Could I go to January 10, 2027?  I would be 78 - surely I could retire then?  Perhaps in my dreams, anyway.  Yeah, financially things would definitely have to change, but I know we could do it.  Even with hubby going to breakfast or lunch every week.  Definitely would have to cut back on Christmas - but you know what?  That's ok too. I'm still working on that, even now!  LOL

Luke 19:41 (NIV):  As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it.

Have you read scriptures over and over again and you just didn't catch it?  The above sentence has been highlighted in my mind.  I saw this scripture, perhaps for the first time, as Jesus rode the donkey into Jerusalem.  I really hadn't thought about it before.  As He got close to Jerusalem, Jesus stopped the donkey colt, and He wept over the city, and over what He knew was going to happen.  He paused, and wept.

I didn't really catch the scripture of it as I watched the movie as I was so caught up in it.  But as my sister and I were discussing pt 1 and pt 2 (she will see 3 on Tuesday), she mentioned Jesus weeping as He approached Jerusalem.  And that made me think about it.  I checked the scripture and it is there. He wept over Jerusalem.

And I think back over my life and when I had difficult things in front of me I had to do, did I weep, and look up, and ask for help?  I can remember one time distinctly that, although I wasn't a Christian then, I was doing something that my heart didn't want to do, and I wept as I waited my turn.  Many thought it was just nerves. But it wasn't that. I didn't want to do what I was about to do.  You don't need to know what it was. It is a distinct memory.  And that is where it will stay.  

Can you think of a time you did something you really didn't want to do, didn't look forward to doing, and yet, you knew that you had to do it, you had to go through with it?  Painful thinking, isn't it.  Some of you are pretty tough and would just shrug it off as 'it is what it is' - and just plow through the emotion you are feeling.  But you find that you revisit that moment time and again and wonder why you couldn't stop it.

I still have a little time in here this morning before work so I'm going to get off here and read a bit. I'm finishing up a couple devotionals I had been reading, and trying to decide on what I will read in here next.  Got a little bit of time to do that.  

Hope that your day is full of special memories and things that you enjoy.

Blessings!

The last holiday of the year is over.

 We had our last group of family over yesterday to celebrate Christmas.  After they had opened their gifts we had 'lunner' and then soon left.  My son said one of the little ones was starting to get on hubby's nerves... although he hadn't said anything.  I get it; I've always been supersensitive about disturbing other people.  And, this little one could not sit still nor keep quiet.  Even I could not keep up with her!  LOL All in all, I think everyone enjoyed the 'gathering' and was happy/ok with what they received.  I feel I messed up on a couple as I thought I had purchased other things for them, but it looks like I did in thought only. I felt bad, but at least they got a gift, right?  

I was going to take some leftovers to Ms. Diane, but she said she was sick and didn't want it.  I checked with Ms. Vicky - and mind you, it was about 4:20PM - and she said no, she had already eaten.  I have the food in containers so guess I will stick in the freezer for when hubby and I need something and I don't want to cook. (Ok, I know that happens way too often, but I am going to try to do better this year and cook more often.)  I guess everything else went well with the food; didn't hear any complaints, anyway.

I don't have training this morning as Morgan moved me to 7AM on Thursday.  So I have tomorrow @ 8AM and Thursday at 7AM this week.  I thought hubby was to go yesterday, but he is scheduled today and Thursday.  His trainings may lessen somewhat as he got disturbing news from the doctor yesterday.

An aneurysm that is in his abdomen has grown enough that the doctor says it needs to have surgery fairly soon.  He said hubby could wait 3 months and have it looked at again - but there is a (scare tactic?) chance it could burst if he puts it off.  Hubby is terrified and depressed at the thought of surgery again.  His fear is that at his age, he says, people go in to the hospital for one thing, and don't come out alive. That's probably true in most cases. But he's healthy so he should be ok, right?  All I can do is pray.  The doctor will probably get something set up this month.  He asked if hubby hiked and being told 'no', the doctor said that was good, for if he did, he would schedule the surgery immediately as any stress could cause it to burst.  He can still work out, but cannot do anything that will cause stress in that area (I'm guessing).  

It's hard to believe today is the last day of 2024.  I look back over the year and as I have commented frequently, again acknowledge how quickly it passed by.  I'm hoping I will be more focused in 2025 and get my life straightened out.  I have many goals in mind, but haven't settled on any to 'declare'.  

Other than my book reading.  I have managed to add two more finished books to my total for the year - bringing it up to 48 out of 50 books - and no, I am not going to read two more books today to meet my goal.  I am going to reset the goal at 50 books (or should I go 55 to really give myself a challenge?) and shoot for it again.  Once I'm working again (starting Thursday), it will be hard to get a lot of reading in. I started the last book yesterday morning after I got things ready for the 'gathering', and finished it after they left.  When a book holds my interest, it is really easy to keep reading.  I have a book already lined up to read starting tomorrow.  We've moved lunch to dinner so I will have most of the day to read once I get the ribs in the oven. Which reminds me, I still need to go pick up more ribs and coleslaw today.  I should do that early this morning, before they are all gone, right?

Isaiah 43:16, 18-19 (NIV):  This is what the Lord says, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?  I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."

Forget the former things of 2024.  Don't think about the things you did (and shouldn't have) or didn't do (and should have).  Forget all that is past, you cannot change a thing.  But what you can do is look to the future and what God is going to do in your life and in the lives of those you love.  Look for new things. Look for good things.  Look ahead with a positive attitude and disposition.  Don't let the past ruin your future.  It is yours to bring good.

Letting go of the past is sometimes hard, I get that.  Especially if it is bad stuff.  Why is it that we hang on to the 'bad' stuff and not the 'good' stuff?  I do that, and I'm sure you do.  I beat myself up over and over again because of something I said - or didn't say and should have.  And why do I do that? Because the devil (although I hate to give him any credit!) likes to keep things stirred up.  He likes for us to put ourselves down and call ourselves names.  QUIT IT!  Tell the devil to go back where he belongs!  

You were made in the image of God.  You were created to bring God glory.  Let's give Him the glory, for only He is worthy of it!  Let's agree not to dwell on the past things that bring up hurt and anger within us - but dwell on the good things that bring us joy.  Agree?

I didn't sleep well last night and am not sure why.  Had a really stupid dream, in my opinion.  I've written it down in my journal to ponder on another time.  It really was weird.  Want to hear it (and agree it is weird?)?  I was donating blood and it was nighttime. Now mind you, I don't donate blood at night; it isn't open.  Anyway, as I was getting ready to leave, I wanted to talk with someone but they were busy and I felt like I had been 'dissed', so I left, instead of waiting.  As I left, there was a long dark hall I had to walk through (valley of the shadow of death?) and there was a thin man leaning up against the wall that I could see his outline.  I hurried out into the dark parking lot and tried to remember where I had parked my car.  The man was following me, and it looked like he had an axe in his hand. I walked quickly and decided to 'run' to a friend's house nearby.  But the houses look alike; I don't know which one is hers (I haven't seen her since 1967 so probably wouldn't even recognize her!).  I am pounding on the door, screaming her name.  I see the man approaching.... only he doesn't have an axe in his hand, but several tree branches.  He walks on past me.  And I wake up.  Yeah - weird, huh?  Maybe I ate too much chocolate before heading to bed? 

Need to get off here and get dressed and out to the store.  I have several things I need to get done today (in my mind, anyway), so need to get on it.  Hope that you have a blessed day!

Blessings!

Overwhelmed is a good word

 for what I have been feeling with work lately, and unfortunately, it isn't going to get much better any time soon! It seemed I got 'hit' with one thing after another yesterday to do.  I usually skim emails before I turn off the work computer, but I didn't even bother yesterday, for I knew there were still some things to do that I didn't get done.  And throw in travel for one of my bosses, which also means a hotel stay and a rental car.... and all that has to be approved BEFORE I can make the reservations... yeah, I was feeling pretty overwhelmed.  But, today is a new day and I'm going to face it with a fresh outlook.  I will review the old emails first to see what I didn't get done yesterday, and then start on todays.  I'm more concerned over what the next two months will be like as I will also be covering for my friend who is having back surgery - and when she asked and I said ok, I was thinking her one doctor she reports to.  But, she supports 7. Or is it 8.  And, she has roped me in to a couple meetings that require minutes, plus a couple other things.  She keeps giving me access to all these team folders which I don't want.  This is definitely going to be a 'Lord, HELP' couple of months!  See, I've already started whining!  

My trainer really worked me out last night - especially on the leg press!  I was already doing 180 pounds - and what does he decide to do?  He pushes back on it while I'm pushing out!  I asked him just what did he think he was doing?  He laughed and told me to keep pushing.  I can tell already my legs are going to be sore somewhat today.  But, I do need to get more exercise than I am getting.  Two 30 minute sessions a week just don't cut it to make changes - well, real changes, anyway.  It takes effort.  To change how this body performs I must put forth the effort to keep it strong and healthy. 

Just like our minds - if we don't put good stuff in it - we will soon falter and not understand things.  Now these words are just my opinion, so don't go quoting me and getting me in trouble.  I do not need anyone's help to do that, I can do that very well on my own.  BUT - I feel that if all one does is sit and watch TV shows, or play games on TV, they will lose the ability to socialize with others.  They won't have anything to talk about except the TV show.  Does that make sense?  

Now hubby and I both read books; granted he reads other books as well as Christian books.  We both enjoy reading, myself moreso than him, I think.  My daughter used to read, but no one reads as much as my oldest son does.  And I like to think that he got that from me.  My mama read a lot too - mainly Grace Livingston Hill books - and in that time frame, I read every single one of her books.  I enjoyed the clean romance of the stories.  In high school I read mysteries and a couple other fiction books that I recall.  I just love to read and that is how I will be spending my retirement years - reading. :-)  Like that will happen any time soon. So I read when I can.

Romans 13:8 (NKJV):  Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.

One could read that scripture and think it means don't owe them any money, but if you read on in the scriptures following it means more than that.

Romans 13:9-10 (NKJV): For the commandments, "You shall not commit adultery", "You shalt not commit murder", "You shall not steal", "You shall not bear false witness", "You shall not covet", and if there is any other commandment,  are all summed up in this saying, namely, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself".  Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.

We are called to love others.  And, sometimes that love has to be from a distance.  And I think I will leave that right there.

I was shocked to read last night that a megachurch had a men's conference - and in that conference the lead pastor of that church had a male pole dancer.  He was called out by Pastor Mark Driscoll (the pastor was), and Dr Driscoll was told he was dismissed.  Who in their right mind would hire a pole dancer for a bunch of Christian men at a men's conference?  It has been interesting the comments that were left.  Some say the rebuke should have been done privately.  (To me, that makes no sense for then the men would never know it was wrong) Others say that Dr. Driscoll was right in calling out the pastor - and I agree with that.  As Christians we are to stand guard over what is right and when we see what is wrong and against the Word of God, we are called to speak up and not hide it under a rug.  Sometimes that can cause rifts, but it is always best to stand up for the Word of God and what it says.

And I will just put this here - when people do or say things that are against the Word of God, we are to call them out for their sin.  Yes, we may get their rebuke, but it is because they do not acknowledge their own sin and they know they are guilty and will take revenge on the one calling them out.   It is so easy to fall in to the ways of the world.

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

Don't be like the world and talk like the world; you are not of this world.  Don't let the world drag you down into its clutches.  Our home is in Heaven; we are not of this world.  Something to think about.

Blessings!

It did start out good....

 When hubby and I came out of our respective morning places, I suggested we go to The Boyer Bakery, which is just down the street, and grab breakfast.  He quickly agreed (and he even paid for it!)  He got a scorched caramel macchiato. And a blueberry bagel with pimento cheese on it.  I ended up with a mocha with an almond croissant.  All was good - but the croissant was almost too much for me.  And the mocha - way too sweet for me to handle.  I drank half, then later that morning I heated the rest up - took two swallows and dumped the rest.  But it was nice to get out and try this new place.  A little pricey, but we wouldn't know if we didn't go.

We sat out side for a little bit and just talked, then I got the urge to go 'thrifting'.  And that's when it started.  I came in and was sitting on the couch reading something on facebook when he just had to say something like 'aren't you going thrifting?'  It left me with the impression of 'get going so that I can turn on the TV'.  Yeah, it did.  I told him that he was rushing me out of the door so that the TV could be turned on - and it escalated a bit from there and I grabbed my keys and walked out the door.  He then text'd me and apologized and said that it wasn't true he was rushing me out.  And yes, he did turn on the TV.   He apologized and asked forgiveness for what it seemed.  I stayed out and went to a thrift store (didn't see anything I wanted to buy (they did have a grandfather clock for $100 and although I wanted it bad, I have no place to put it).  I then went to Ross and bought a couple things, and then to Savers, and bought some books.  I was just in a stroll through mood.

Stopped and picked up a couple combo meals from Leo's Island BBQ and came home.  We ate dinner and I sat down and finished one book - and completely read through another last night!  I've gotten 10 books down on my 50 goal.  Hubby actually left the TV off last night.  The TV will probably be on this afternoon - no biggie.  Or we both may just take a nap.  Nothing really on the agenda.  Might get some more reading done if the TV is left off.  He may ask to watch a movie - and that is ok - I can sit and crochet.  I'm wanting to start working on quilts again.... not sure if my hands/fingers can handle it now as they sometimes will cramp up.  But I do have my sewing machine and it would be much faster.  But I have this thing about someone looking over my shoulder while I do it.  sigh. I know, 'get over it'.  I have he material; and my batting got delivered by Amazon this morning.  I love Amazon.  I don't have to leave my chair to do my shopping.  And its sometimes delivered the next day.

My daughter goes in for her surgery on Wednesday.  I asked if I could bring a dish or two over for them while she is recovering.  LOL  She didn't hesitate to say 'garbage'!  So I will make a dish of garbage and take over probably on Thursday or Friday, as she will sleep once she is back home - and it sounds like - without any complications - they will do the surgery in the morning and send home in the evening.  Definitely am in prayer for her and for the doctors doing the surgery!

Didn't get cookies made yesterday - totally forgot.  Hopefully will remember today to bake them.  I did get my message for next Sunday typed out.  It's in draft form so will be working on it this week.  What's it about?  It's about Hope.  And our Hope is Jesus.

Psalm 18:2 (NLT):  "I love you, Lord; You are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my Savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety."

Who would you say the Lord is to you?  Is He your Friend?  Is He your Savior?   Is His name only one you roll your eyes at whenever is is mentioned?   Who is God to you?  Who is Jesus to you? 

How could one not love the Lord with all our heart, all our soul, and all our mind, as we are encouraged to do?  Do you not realize that the very hair on your head is numbered by Him?  He is the One who keeps you.  He is the One who answers prayers.  Granted, the answers may not be the one we want to hear or see, but our God can see so far in the future - and we cannot.  We only see what is in front of us and know our wants and we want it now.  But God doesn't work that way.  He does what is best for us.  He loves you and loves me so much that He won't always give us what we ask for - or what we want.  He gives us Himself, and that should be enough.

Have a blessed day.

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 may not want to get up....

 but I love rising early to have my time with Jesus each morning.  I awoke at 11PM last night and struggled to get back to sleep. But did, and finally arose just before 5AM.  I chalk that wakeup to taking a late nap yesterday afternoon.  Plus being absolutely, totally, lazy yesterday - other than going to Sam's Club and buying way too much - I pretty much sat on the couch all day.  We did read last night - and I'm currently reading two books (actually more than that, but only two by my chair.).. Return of the Gods by Jonathan Cahn and Rekindled Fire by Steve Fry.  

At first, in reading Return of the Gods it was hard to get in to - I'm not used to those type of books.  but I read several pages yesterday and wow - what he is describing are things that happened in my day!  I remember when Madalyn O'Hara did the court thing that took prayer out of schools.  I remember when the big bull was placed in New York City.  But I never made the connection to the idols of old.  

Remember Baal? His body was the bull.  America has brought Baal into America - and just as the Israelites of old fell away from God and worshipped idols, Baal, Asterarth, Isthar, and others.... America is doing it as well.  And God ain't happy, I'm telling you!  When we turn away from God, as America has done, God's punishment will be severe.  His commandments - remember when the Supreme Court ruled they had to be removed from public places?  Removed from schools?  The Ten Commandments that teach us how to live justly?

Oh that God will have mercy on us as we approach the time of Jesus' return.  He will have no mercy for those who turned others away from Him, and He will have no mercy for those who follow Baal or any of the other idols of old.  They have penetrated America, they have penetrated our homes, they have penetrated our lives - if we have let them.  We must constantly be on our guard and do not be lovers of money (Wall Strett), lovers of sexuality (Asterath), and the other idols.  This could be a book that my son may be interested in reading.  Actually, we have several of Jonathan Cahn (who is a Messanic Jew) has written.  His latest is the Josiah Manifesto which hubby is reading now.  I think you would be surprised at things you read - things we just took in stride as we didn't think they really affected us.  But they do.  

I Kings 9:6-7 (NKJV):  "But if you or your sons at all turn from following Me, and do not keep My commandments and My statutes which I have set before you, but go and serve other gods and worship them, then I will cut off Israel from the land which I have given them; and this house which I have consecrated for My name I will cast out of My sight. Israel will be a proverb and a byword among all peoples."

And this also applies to America.  Woe is us for we have turned from God and have / are worshipping idols of money, of possessions, of politics, of people, of things!  Do you not see it?  The Lord gives and the Lord takes away.  Do not think for one moment that God will bypass you or your family if you seek after other things instead of Him.  Our God is a jealous God and there is to be no one or any thing in His place.

Wow - heavy stuff from me on a Sunday morning, isn't it!  I don't know about you, but I often have to ask God to forgive me for my pride - and yet, I have never thought of myself as a prideful person.  But when we insist on our own way of doing things - right or wrong - when we push our own agends, when we like to do showy things, like bragging about how we helped so and so or donated such and such... we are being prideful.  I have caught myself being prideful over the silliest things.... which I won't go in to - but it was a wake up call for me.

Now it is ok to be happy, full of pride, over something you have created or over your child.... but don't worship them.  I am proud of my children.  I am proud of my grandchildren.  I am proud of my great-grandchildren.  But I cannot hold them up equal to God and worship them.  I am proud of the work I do for 'my' company.  But I can't worship the work nor the company.  I am happy that I can give to God each week, but I can't be prideful that I can give this or that much.  It is to God that I'm giving it; it is my worship to Him.  Doesn't matter if it is $1 or $100 - it is my worship, my obedience to Him. Does any of this make sense?

Worship God.  Period. Nothing else.  He is Sovereign, Holy, Almighty, and alone is worthy to be praised with every ounce of our being.  Hallejujah!

Church this morning for us, and hopefully will get up off our lazy butts and head to the gym.  We have to do more than workout twice a week and expect miracles to happen.  Lord, help!  I have more strength, for which I am grateful.  My core is getting stronger.  I'm still waiting for the excess to fall off. Maybe soon.  My trainer told me to watch my carbs and eat more protein.  I'm not a big meat eater so need to work on that.  At least I will later today!

My big brother sent me a surprise package the other day.  Remember I mentioned it, but I don't recall if I shared what he sent.  He sent us a large tomahawk steak and a dessert of chocolate mousse.  I kid you not!  Since hubby doesn't grill, he said to put in the oven at 140 degrees for two and a half hours.  I'm going to cook it this afternoon.  It's big enough that we will be eating the meat for at least two days.  Of course hubby is a big meat eater so maybe not. LOL   I love how my big brother blesses me unexpectedly at times.  I had no idea what he was sending. 

Who can you bless today unexpectedly?  Maybe cook a meal for your family - if it is something you don't normally do.  Maybe it is just to pick up after yourself.  Trust me, they will notice!  Maybe it is just doing something nice for them that they don't expect.  Be a blessing to someone today.

Blessings!

Today memories....

 This morning as I wrote in my journal today's date, I was reminded once again of my daddy.  It has been 66 years since he passed away, and every year I often pause and think of him, and what our life - that I can remember of the age of 6-7 - was like, and what it was like the years after.  Sixty six years.  Yes, the thought of that can make one feel old, can it not?  At 73, I still miss my dad and wish he had lived to raise us kids.  Would our lives have been any different?

I certainly believe they would have been.  But God can see things that I cannot see.  He knows things that I cannot know.  And because my dad did pass, and our lives were changed in that moment in time, I can look back and still see the hand of God upon me.  He allowed me to go through some very tough things.  But because of them, I am more aware and more conscious of these things.  He allowed me to do some very stupid things.  And because of that, I know what shame feels like and how easy it is to become filled with the worldly things.  And because He allowed me to marry and move out here,  He allowed troubling times that would cause me to run back to Him and allow Him to love me, forgive me, fill me, and remove my sins and set me free.  

He is a good, good father, and what He has done for me, He will do for you.  All you have to do is ask Him, and give Him your life and allow Him to mold you into His perfect image.  Doesn't mean I do everything right - I certainly don't.  But, I have One who will always be there to guide and direct my path.  So I like to think that my dad's passing served a good purpose.  After all, there are things that I cannot see, cannot know, but my God sees all and knows all.  He knows our lives from birth to death and all that will happen in between.  It's hard to thank God for the trials and hardships, and easy to thank Him for the good times and the rewarding times.... but in ALL things we are told to thank Him.

Philippians 4:11-13 (NIV):  "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

Being content isn't a 'thing', it is a choice.  We can choose to be content with what we have, or we can always crave more.  I choose to be content...  but will admit there are times I'm in the 'more' category, especially when it comes to knowing God.  I always want to know Him more....  and I have learned that 'things' I 'had to have', after a time, do not mean as much.  In fact, I have some 'things' I'd like to get rid of...  we probably all do.

It was nice to have the TV off last night so that I could read.  Hubby turned it off 'on his own' right after the news.  I grabbed a book and got several chapters in to it.  After a couple hours , though, my eyes were burning and heavy, so off to bed we went. I miss those days when I could sleep in as long as I wanted and I could stay up all night if I wanted (and did many times in my single years!) and read a good book.  I wouldn't dare stay up all night reading now... I get 'missed' if not in the bed and hubby can't sleep.  Of course he tosses and turns most of the night anyway, so he tells me.  He believes what his Fitbit tells him... I tell him it's not accurate cause it will reflect 'awake' every time he flip flops.  Yeah, he does big flip flops.  LOL

Dang! I just choked on my coffee!  I picked up my cup to take a swallow and it went down the 'wrong  pipe' I guess (why do we say that?  We only have one pipe!) and I grabbed my cup to spew it back into the cup versus all over my computer.  Guess I won't be drinking the rest of that!  What was THAT about! LOL

With that, I guess I'll hush for today.  It's Tuesday, I'll have a few hours alone as hubby has his Bible study, then will go to lunch with his friend, then his doctor appointment got moved to this afternoon so he will head on down there - wow - I'll be home alone a large portion of the day.  Too bad I have to work - but still, what can I get done while he is gone?  I'm thinking of washing down the doors; I've noticed a darkened area on a couple doors where our hands have been as we shut the doors.  If I don't forget, I can do that.  Don't have that much in my laundry basket so no need to do that.  Hmmmm.  I'm sure my bosses will give me lots of meetings to create today as they didn't have much yesterday. 

 Breakfast with my favorite boss tomorrow so will be gone most of the morning.  YAY!  I've got a lot of things going on the rest of the week...after today.  Breakfast Wednesday, lunch with a friend on Thursday, lunch with friends from the RV park on Friday, and Saturday we will be heading to Tucson, with a return on Sunday.  Spending money like we have some.  Oh well, can't take it with us. 

Wow - my mind was going off on another road, but lucky you, I erased it and am now going to end this.  Hope you have an amazing day!

Blessings!

Sharing your story...

 Yesterday was a pretty good day.  I actually got ON the treadmill and walked two miles of the forty/forty challenge I have joined (forty miles in forty days).  I.am.really.out.of.shape.  Wow.  it's been awhile since I have walked - which is shameful.  I can use every excuse ... but lazy is the most prominent, I'm afraid.  It's still the first week of the the year... I can still make goals and change, right?  And I'm on the right 'foot' by getting on the treadmill yesterday, right?  Hubby was even 'motivated' to get on the treadmill for about ten minutes yesterday.  I understand being cautious.... but his 'I need to start out slow and take it easy' comments are starting to wear on me.  Ten minutes a month is not being cautious.  Ok - I'm being a smart aleck, I know. :-)

My one boss who has been on 'vacation' the past week and a half was on line yesterday and I saw several emails come through from him for me to do something.  He obviously had not been checking his emails until yesterday.  Which means I will have work to do today.  Oh joy.  

I'm ready to start the third book that my son gave me for Christmas.  Got my first book 'read' in 2023 and noted in Goodreads.  So far so good. Ok, this is only the 3rd of January.  Cut me some slack.  I probably ought to note in my calendar book at least once a month to note any books I read.  I often will read a book and just move on to the next without thinking about it.  Or go long spells without reading at all.  I'm trying to do better this year - and with putting I will read 3 books a month - which can be a challenge at times - I need to stay focused.   I have several unread books on my bookcases - books I WANT to read and just haven't... now would be a good time, ya think?

Thanking God this morning that all my children made it back home yesterday.  I'm sure it was a long day for them and I'm grateful they are back safely.

Proverbs 27:1 (NKJV):  "Don't brag about tomorrow, since you don't know what the day will bring."

Matthew 6:30 (NKJV):  "And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?"

Matthew 6:34 (NKJV):  "So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today."

Oftentimes we will put off things and say "we will do it tomorrow"... but what if 'tomorrow' doesn't come for us?  What if today is it?

Some people put off cleaning their house until tomorrow.

Some people put off exercising until tomorrow.

Some people will put off ______________ until tomorrow.  You can fill in that blank.

But what if?  What if God calls you to an accounting TODAY?  What if, you don't wake up tomorrow morning....  is your life in order?  Did you accomplish what you wanted to do before you 'left earth'?  

So many people make plans for tomorrow (myself included)... but tomorrow never comes for them. Those things are left undone.  Sure, when I die, I want my house to be spotless, I want all my friendships renewed, I want my children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren to know how deeply they are loved, and I want and I want and I want.....

But the question is... what am I doing about it NOW?  EVERY day is a new day to start a new beginning.  But what are we doing with the TODAY that has been given to us?    Even if we are sick or have medical issues and know that life is fragile... are we really prepared to be found without life in us?  

What will we have left those who we leave behind?  What memory will they have to last them their lifetime and to pass on to their families?  The older we get, the more those memories fade....or like me, many things I had blocked of my childhood that I don't want to remember, or choose not to share.  

Stories like my mother shared about walking to school in the snow.... the wagon was ahead of them and they walked behind it.... so that the wagon would clear the road somewhat and they could walk to school....  or just taking a biscuit for their lunch.  How I wish I could have gotten Mother to use the tape recorder I had sent her and recorded her stories!  But, like us now, I'm sure that many of them she had forgotten.

I don't know if my children ever heard Mother recite her poem.... Mother wrote it out for me one time and I found a written copy when my older sister passed and I was cleaning her room.  It's about her sister Kate ... can't remember the title now.  Perhaps I will look for the poem and share it.  Mother had memorized it word for word and could still recite it when she passed.  I always had her tell me when I saw her.  

What can you do TODAY .... and not put off until tomorrow?  Yes, we need to weigh the importance... but what legacy will you leave behind for those who come behind you?

Is it really that important for you to be 'right' all the time?  Wouldn't you rather be remembered as being kind and loving?  That you shared about Jesus? That you walked the talk?  That you lived what you said you believed?  That you loved others? That you gave? 

What is the legacy you leave today.... something to think about.  There is still 'time' to make a change.  I need to also ponder what do I want those who come behind me, remember about me.....   at least for one son, he will have this blog.... and many times it tells so much of me.  He will have to share my stories of my life in the past.

Or I just need to quit procrastinating and 'write that book' of my life.  It doesn't matter if no one reads it. If I want others to know ME, I need to share it.  

And so do you.  Today... is a good day to start.

Blessings!

Day four of vacation....

 So far so good, one might say.  We had a stay in day again yesterday, but I am guessing we may venture out for a bit today.  I think hubby is starting to get antsy staying in one location.  Who knows, we might find something to see if we go out.   Yesterday was nice though.  I got so excited to be able to sit on the porch and watch a soft steady rain fall all about us.  It was beautiful.  I love watching the rain fall and just be quiet and behold God's blessing of rain.  It is a beautiful sight to behold.  Unless you are in a flood zone, that is!

I awoke at my usual 4AM this morning but stayed in bed until nearly 5AM before I got up, shut the door to the bedroom and came into the front room to begin my quiet time.  I had about 40 minutes before hubby stirred and came out.  Coffee made, he walked outside to watch the sunrise and drink his coffee.  I opted to stay inside where I am comfortable with my blanket around me to keep the cool air off and continue to write in my journal after reading.  Not sure what's going on with me; the last three days I have been sneezing quite frequently - and the last two mornings I got up and had a nose bleed.  Interesting.  Not sure what either of those are about.

Finished reading in Zechariah this morning; it's interesting how even in the old testament you can see where they refer to the Lord riding into Jerusalem on a donkey.  And when Jesus came, He brought the scriptures back to life and and fulfilled them.  When you read the Bible and you know about the stories in it, when you read a prophesy, it's really cool.

The youngest son called yesterday to tell about his daughter's latest doctor visit.  Seems she is dilated to 3 now and the baby has dropped.  Sounds like the birth could happen any time.  He says 'they' have changed he name of the baby - nothing definite yet, but making the first name 'Jay' instead of Ezekiel as she had told me.  I must say I am disappointed.  Greatly disappointed.  Yes, the parents should be able to name their babies anything they want, but ....  I'll leave it at that.  It hurt my heart for I have so prayed for baby Ezekiel to follow his namesake.  Even though my granddaughter, nor her boyfriend, knew the name meant anything.  I do have two grandsons named after great prophets - and one a king at that!  Of course they were not specifically named after them, but still..... 

My next reading in the Bible is going through the book of Psalms.  Psalms contain many written by David, both as a Shepherd, and also as King of Israel.  Some are full of praise, some of anger, some of seeking, some of .... well, you name it.  All emotions that we feel even nowadays.  There are several of the Psalms that are my favorite, but I still love to read through each one and ponder on them.  We all pretty much know the 23rd Psalm as many of us memorized it as we were growing up.  Many times when I have difficulty sleeping, I will begin reciting the 23rd Psalm in my mind, and before I know it, I have drifted off to sleep again.  And many times I also say the Lord's Prayer when I have trouble sleeping, both help me to relax and fall asleep.

Have you ever really read Psalm 23 and thought about what it means?   Did you know that you can make it your own prayer as well?   I'll share more about that - if I don't forget - perhaps next week when I get back to reading it.  Starting with Psalm 1 tomorrow.  Taking my mine.  And spending time praising the Lord, for only He is worthy of praise.

As I sat here this morning and before hubby got up, I was able to be quiet and think about the goodness of God to us and His blessings upon us.  He has been so good to all of us.  He loves us so much, He allows us to suffer the consequences of our mistakes, and yet, He walks with us through them.  Sometimes I think I keep Him pretty busy.  Sigh.

Finished reading a second book yesterday and started on a third book.  I love to read and am enjoying this time that I can read without stopping all the time to work or whatever.  Grateful that hubby cannot figure out how to turn the TV on (thank You, Jesus) and we have constant quiet.  He spends a LOT of time on his phone.

Oh - hubby found out something yesterday.  He wears a Versa 2 Fitbit.  When his phone rings, it pops up on the Fitbit and tells him who is calling, and it has a phone (to answer) or a red something (to disconnect it).  We both usually hit the red - usually not the green phone.  Yesterday, he accidentally hit the green phone and he was able to talk via his Fitbit!  How?  He has hearing aids and when he answered, it answered on his phone, which is connected to his hearing aids and as long as his phone is in reach, he will be able to talk on this Fitbit without having to run to his phone to answer.  I didn't know that - I knew I could hit the green phone (when I had the Fitbit), but I always had to pick up my phone to chat on it.  (With my new Apple watch that I got for my birthday, I can answer (as long as my phone is in reach) on my watch and talk.  BUT, everyone can hear my conversation ... whereas with hubby, only he hears his because of the hearing aids.   I miss my Fitbit in that it gave me all my information on the face of the screen, whereas with the Apple watch, I have to look at my phone.  I'm told I'll 'get used to it'.  And I probably will.

Need to get moving and start breakfast.  Maybe we will go in to town for breakfast... naw... maybe a little later.  We can have lunch 'in town' and then come back.. it's to rain again this afternoon.  I love to watch the rain.  Peaceful and my thoughts turn to praise.

So when you can sit out and watch the rain, where do your thoughts go?  I choose to think about God's goodness and faithfulness.  And spend time praising Him and thanking Him for loving me so much. Try it.  You will feel such great peace.

Blessings!