Pile of Smiles

The Final Ride Home

2012-01-17T16:07:00.004-07:00

Last summer, when I left Chicago to fly home, I was transported to the airport in style. My brother is a chauffeur and riding in the back of his black limousine made me feel rich! I think every woman should have this experience at least once in her life! It is no wonder that shortly after my limo ride, I dreamt about my mother being driven to her final destination in a black limousine with a driver like my brother fully suited, gloves and all. In my dream, I stuck my head in the window of the back seat and asked her if she had all her papers in order. “Yes,” she replied. I could see her ticket, but I wondered if she had her identification since she does not own a drivers license. “Don’t worry,” she said. “I have my I.D. right here!” This dream was prophetic. Last summer I told my siblings that the Lord was taking our Mom home and that all the final spiritual preparation was in place. At 96, she was ready. They kept telling me she will live to be 100, but in my heart I knew our mother was leaving. It was no surprise to me that Mom was hospitalized with congestive heart failure just before Christmas. I found it interesting that the doctors released her and my brother was called to chauffeur her to a nursing home! This strong-willed woman hung on in that nursing home for two weeks until each one of her children could get there to hold her in our arms, kiss her and tell her how much we loved her and in return hear her endearing comments back to us.

This morning at 1:30 a.m. my brother called me and told me our Mom passed away gently in her sleep just as I prayed and hoped would happen. No more suffering.

Thank you, dear friends, for those wonderful prayers you sent our way. Everything fell in place for us last week. God’s hand was guiding us as we gathered for family meetings and made decisions. His peace and love cuddled us like children under a warm blanket. Special hugs from our family to you for those beautiful cards and sentiments you wrote. I sat by Mom’s side daily reading every one of them to her with our family all around us. She loved hearing your affectionate words and knowing she was prayed for because prayer is all she wanted in her last days. She smiled when she saw the cards with dogs on the front or when we read her notes from your children!

I am weepy today, but thankful to our God who allowed me to witness my mother’s last days and her final words expressing to us that she could see our grandma and our Aunty Bea, her best friend and sister. She spoke out loud to the angels as they ushered her to her final home and eternal destiny. Her earthly journey is over. The page has turned.

My Mom

2012-01-06T08:00:00.005-07:00

I just learned that my Mom was placed in a lovely rehab facility and she’ll be there for five weeks. Just before the holidays, she came home from the hospital but is not doing well. I’m flying out to Chicago on Sunday. I don’t know what to expect. When my brothers and sister call, the reports conflict each other. It’s hard because I’m so far away. Mom told me on the phone that she can feel the prayers that are coming her way and she was thankful. I thought of another thing I could do for her, but I can't do this without help. I could ask my blog friends to send her a card to cheer her up. I have this vision of a blast of love through card therapy. This is her address if you feel like you would like to help me with this:

Sophie Zegar
Heritage Manor
355 Raymond St.
Elgin, Illinois 60120

Mom is 96 and has a wonderful sense of humor. She loves dogs, children and Jesus. I wish you could meet her; she would make you smile!

I recently posted about my 2012 Word from the Lord: “Obedience.” It is no surprise to me that now I must follow up my words with action and go. I wonder what lessons God has in store for me. I would appreciate any prayers you can whisper for me and my family right now. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

My 2012 Word

2012-01-04T11:50:00.004-07:00

I got four new tires for Christmas. They are beauties. Now I’m safe. I bought my car used in 2005 and the tires were new. After six years of wear, you can imagine the threadbare. You wouldn’t believe how many times I would arrive home and tell Dice that a tire is going flat again; it would be a different tire each time. I never got into my car until I walked all around it checking to see if enough air was still in each tire. Fortunately, when a tire did go flat or almost flat, I was parked somewhere. I was always protected from blowouts on the Interstate. Dice was forever repairing the low tire with slime and driving around afterwards to smooth it out. But even then, the ride to work the next day was bumpy and my gauge never exceeded 60 m.p.h. I drove in the far right lane of the interstate at much lower speeds letting everyone pass me. I got to work every time on a prayer!

I don’t have to do any of this anymore. Dice borrowed my car just before Christmas and bought new tires for it and had them balanced. What a surprise! It’s funny how out of habit, I still check my tires before I get in my car. They are always full and Dice put these colored gadgets on the tires that warn me if I need air. I can go real fast on the interstate, too, keeping up with the best of them! The ride is smooth.

My new tires parallel my spiritual journey this New Year. I asked the Lord for direction like I always do at the end of the year and beginning of a new one. My 2012 word is obedience. At first I didn’t like it, but I’m very sure of it now and it’s growing on me! I balked at first knowing my flesh doesn’t obey well. I'm the queen of excuses when I don’t want to do something! When you do that you end up like a car that has nearly flat tires and you don’t move real fast. You’re slow and pokey. This year my focus will be overcoming the hindrances to obedience. Hindrances remind me of that slime in my tires and the bumpy ride! I want my spiritual journey to be like riding in my car the way it is now with my new tires getting me from one place to the next quickly and with ease and mostly safe and worry free. I’m off to a good start but what really matters is a good finish and that comes from the Holy Spirit’s help to hear and obey every day. God blesses those who obey Him. This is going to be a good year. I’m reaching for those blessings.

Because He Lives, I Can Move...Again

2011-12-29T14:29:00.004-07:00

Is there a post you have written in 2011 that received more acclaim than others? You might want to join me in linking to Shanda's the Best of the Best at http://www.shandaoakleyinspires.com/ and repost your gem. The following is my post from back in March, 2011.

Because He Lives, I Can Move

I’m currently in one of those places where you lay out all the options and make the best decision. It seems, however, like none of them are fair or attractive. I know God will help me in my situation and his guidance is what I desire. I’m clinging to His Word which promises that ALL things work together for good for those that love God and are called according to His purpose, Romans 8:28.

I heard a great teaching this week about seeking God’s will and all the freedom it brings. We can know that God is bringing about a victory if we trust Him with each and every decision. The speaker illustrated his point with a painting.

The painting depicts a look of despair on the chess player’s face. He’s playing Satan and his soul is at stake. It looks like Satan is winning. Checkmate! When Paul Morphy saw this painting back in the 1800’s, he set up a chess board and aligned the pieces to reflect the painting. Being a world champion, he studied the board. His conclusion was that this painting should not have been titled “Checkmate.” Morphy found a last move setting the man free!

I’m praising God for Jesus. He defeated Satan when He died on the cross. He is going to show me the winning move and deliver me from checkmate. The game is not over as Satan wants me to think.

Breaking the Fear Barrier

2011-12-19T20:47:00.006-07:00

I'm amazed at Mary's courage. She took so many risks when she agreed to be the vessel to birth Jesus and raise Him. The faith of such a young girl astonishes me. When the angel Gabriel foretold the birth of her son Jesus, Mary responded in faith "I am the Lord's servant, may it be to me as you have said." Her bold demeanor stunned her pregnant cousin Elizabeth, who exclaimed in a loud voice: Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!" (Luke 1:3

A similar dialogue occurred in my own kitchen not too long ago as I was preparing to entertain my guests with a favorite meal. My cousin thought that I was courageous to take on house guests and cooking for everybody, confessing that such a task would make her so nervous that she would end up in bed with a three-day headache. She has a lovely home and is a good cook, but she’s too much of a perfectionist. I quickly admitted that although I enjoy impersonating Martha Stewart in my kitchen, I have my areas where my blood pressure rises in fear, too. Put me in heavy traffic in a big city with unfamiliar streets and landmarks and I’m a nervous wreck. You can keep that kind of adventure!

My cousin and I need to be a little more like Mary and Elizabeth. Mary knew the secret, I think. She did not depend on her strength. She submitted to God. It takes no faith to do things that we know how to do. But what kind of faith rises up in us when we have to depend on the Lord to do His will in the midst of our inadequacies? Is it lean faith, no faith or do we say: “Here I am, Lord. May it be done to me according to Your will.” There are no excuses. Am I afraid? I need to do it anyway. I need to do it, even if I do it afraid.

This post connects to On Your Heart Tuesday at A Pause on the Path.

The Gift Exchange

2011-12-12T19:52:00.005-07:00

It was last Saturday night when our Life Group from church gathered for a Christmas party and we played the gift exchange game where when it’s your turn, you can take a newly wrapped gift or one that somebody else has already opened. The objective is that you don’t want the person up next to take your gift. You play the gift down so they will have to open up a new wrapped gift and you keep yours! However, I was so surprised when I opened my lovely gift, I just couldn’t act apathetic! In fact, I featured all the qualities of the gift to the group as if it was a sales presentation! You can take the saleslady out of the office, but the sales pitch is still in her!

I may have played the gift game wrong, but I’m playing the Salvation gift right these days of December. And I’ve been busy! I heard a wonderful sermon this season on the reason God sent Jesus to us. It is because God made us a promise and Jesus fulfilled that promise to us in every way. I’ve been on the lookout to see who needs Jesus, who needs to be encouraged, who needs help or prayers, who I haven’t been in enough contact with, who I can pray for that is standing on a scriptural promise that hasn’t manifested yet. Who is in need of healing?

Salvation is a gift. No way am I keeping it to myself!

This post links to Shanda at Pause on the Path featuring On Your Heart Tuesdays

Kids' Perspective

2011-12-07T06:21:00.003-07:00

There is nothing sadder in this world than to awake Christmas morning and not be a child.
Erma Bombeck

What do kids think of angels? Here are some thoughts:

I only know the names of two angels, Hark and Harold.
Gregory, age 5

Angels have a lot to do and they keep very busy. If you lose a tooth, an angel comes in through your window and leaves money under your pillow. Then when it gets cold, angels go south for the winter.
-Sara, age 6

Angels work for God and watch over kids when God has to go do something else.
-Mitchell, age 7

My guardian angel helps me with math, but he's not much good for science.
-Henry, age 8

Angels don't eat, but they drink milk from Holy Cows!!!
-Jack, age 6

When an angel gets mad, he takes a deep breath and counts to ten. And when he lets out his breath again, somewhere there's a tornado.
-Reagan, age 10

Angels live in cloud houses made by God and his son, who's a very good carpenter.
-Jared, age 8

Some of the angels are in charge of helping heal sick animals and pets. And if
they don't make the animals get better, they help the child get over it.
- Vicki , age 8

What I don't get about angels is why, when someone is in love, they shoot arrows at them.
-Sarah, age 7

No Well

2011-12-01T10:44:00.005-07:00

When the rest of the world entered into the Christmas season last weekend and began singing about Noel, we were without water and we were singing “no well.” Country living is wonderful with its open range and wide spaces scattering homes here and there, but as wonderful as this country lifestyle of ours is, it requires a water well and you never really know when something will go amiss and you end up with no water. I might add that people tend to get feisty when water does not flow! In my predicament, I can thank the Lord for several things as I look back to last weekend.

First, our well stably pumped water on Thanksgiving, allowing us to live uninterrupted lives and entertaining a house guest in comfort who traveled home by the time our well decided to quit. I’m thankful for the showers we enjoyed, the toilets that flushed and the water flowing liberally as we cooked and carved a messy 22 lb. turkey on Thanksgiving Thursday!

Second, I thank God for the grace to enjoy our holiday weekend regardless of our dilemma. We set up our tree and decorated our home like clean, showered people did. We ate out of cans or we used paper plates and cooking was brief giving us more time to watch the Christmas movies on TV and fill up on munchies from disposable bags!

Lastly, once the weekend was over, our well-driller was at our place, Johnny-on-the-spot! I gasped when the grim diagnosis revealed that we needed a new pump. They are pricey! But I’m thanking God and praising Him because we were told that we are still under warranty! All the repairs cost us short of $900, but it could have been worse and twice that amount.

Today I’m thankful for God’s perfect timing. He had His mighty hand on us and on our celebration last Thursday and I’m so grateful! On this Thankful Thursday, I’m thanking Him that He never leaves me and His living water is always available. It never runs dry! He that believeth in me, as the scripture saith: Out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. John 7:38

Unity: The Best Ingredient

2011-11-26T12:04:00.009-07:00

Unity was the best ingredient in our Thanksgiving Dinner Celebration. I have been inspired as I read posts about others' Thanksgiving holiday and decided to write one of my own today.

When I woke on Thanksgiving, it was so dark and cold and quiet in my kitchen, but a pot of coffee and the Word of God warmed my body and my soul. I read Psalm 133 which speaks of unity among family and how pleasing it is to the Lord. It’s like precious oil poured on Aaron’s head and runs down his robes. Imagine being cloaked in unity and the Lord saying He bestows his blessing! This message had a wonderful ring to it and I prayed for unity as the day began. It manifested in most surprising ways!

Our cousin, Wayne, woke up showing me the house slippers he packed because he feels so at home at our house.

Dice woke up early and cooked us a hearty breakfast of bacon, biscuits and gravy.

The guys watched a cooking show after the parade and displayed their research dressing the 22 lb. bird with stuffing and seasoning.

Our daughter and SIL prepared appetizers to ward off our hunger and kept us content through the afternoon.

Me? Well, I read a good book!

Clean up after dinner went fast with everybody so willing to help in the kitchen so that we could eat pie and drink coffee and play “Left, Right, Center.” We are far from a perfect family with our communication gaps, offbeat sense of humors, and typical family issues, but forgiveness and acceptance runs deep in us and for that, I am thanking God for a wonderful holiday weekend.

This post connects to Spiritual Sundays and 30 Days of Thanksgiving/Reflections of His Grace.

This Balm is Divine

2011-11-18T20:49:00.004-07:00

If I could package a divine healing balm and wrap it real pretty and tie it with a bow, I would. I would give it out as gifts to all my friends and family who are hurting as we enter the holiday season.

It was last week, in fact, when I came home late in the evening and discovered as I got ready for bed that the left side of my lip was sore and puffy and felt lacerated. I remembered a Christmas gift my good friend and mentor, Helen, gave me years ago so I went into my medicine cabinet to find it: Bag Balm! Helen told me that it always works and heals quickly. I rarely get cold sores or lip sores so I forgot all about the balm. It has amazing properties and just like Helen said, it worked thoroughly and effectively. By morning, my lip was healed.

But there’s a greater healing. For several months now, our Life Group has done an intense study on the Blood of Jesus. His Blood is powerful. It changes people and situations. It restores the prosperous and the poor. It improves circumstances. It is all sufficient. It heals, it helps, it cleanses and it delivers. It can’t be contained in a gift box with a bow, but it’s the greatest gift to give. Likewise, it is the best gift a hurting person can receive. I’m giving it today as I pray for those who phoned me this week for prayer. I’m pleading the Blood of Jesus on the one who is financially strapped, on the one whose spouse wants to leave, and on the one who faces surgery. In fact, I can’t think of anybody who can’t use it. It’s that good of a gift! This Balm is divine and I'm thankful for it.

This post links to Spiritual Sundays hosted by Charlotte.

Random Blessings

2011-11-15T08:33:00.005-07:00

Here it is the week before Thanksgiving and excitement is building as I plan my menu, polish the silver, shop for groceries and clean the guest room. But I want to pause and focus on my blessings once again and thank God for them. I’m calling it “random blessings” this week!

I met with my prayer sister yesterday. After lunch at a Mexican restaurant, we sat in the park across the street and enjoyed a beautiful fall day with strong sun and gentle cool breezes. We had a powerful afternoon time of prayer in the crisp outdoors.

It looks like I can possibly close a sale tomorrow. I’m so thankful to be able to have a big sale to work on as the holidays begin. What a way to end the year.

Our Tuesday night “Life Group” has been a great time of fellowship and renewing our minds. We have been discussing the Blood of Jesus focusing specifically on Knowing it, Believing it, Appropriating it and Expecting it. Our group is large; about twenty of us meet in a large home with a huge living room. We've been gathering for months now encouraging one another to put our faith in the Blood knowing what the Blood of Jesus has accomplished, delivered us from and ratified for us. Good stuff!

I love to bake and my daughter dropped by unexpectedly Saturday morning.

We enjoyed a cup of tea together and decided to make cut out, sugar cookies with a new cutter we found in the shape of a Saguaro Cactus. They turned out great! I got a kick out of watching her creative juices flow as she decorated them! We ate a few while watching a Christmas movie on DVD. I posted the recipe here if you are interested.

That’s what’s on my heart this week, my random blessings. I hope you have many as well. I’m linking this post to Shanda’s What’s on Your Heart Tuesdays.

Couldn't Wait to Hug My Vet

2011-11-10T14:12:00.006-07:00

I couldn’t wait. It’s a day early but I gave my husband Dice, a Viet Nam Vet, his card with a great big hug. The card was perfect. The front read: “Thank you for serving in the Navy” over a photo of a naval fleet out at sea. Dice liked it. He pointed to an aircraft carrier ship, way too familiar, having served two tours in the South China Sea on a Carrier. He explained how the carrier was a vulnerable ship and was protected by other war ships as they all traveled together, just like on my card.

I was also able to give a warm hug to my friend Al, a veteran, while at lunch with him this week. My girlfriends honored him with a meal and we expressed our gratitude for all he continues to do for our nation’s veterans. Al, at 72, has fulfilled two-thirds of his childhood dream of walking across our great nation! In 2009, he walked from California to Ocean City, Md and in 2011, from Florida to Maine. Al pushes a cart decorated with flags and encourages veterans as well as firefighters and policemen in cities across the country. I enjoyed hearing the ways that the Lord protected this friendly man and met his every need by placing “just the right” person in his path along the way.

My favorite story is when Al met another veteran from Iraq who dressed every day in his clown uniform to entertain in civic presentations. Every day? “Yes,” he told Al. “I must put on my clown makeup to survive. I lost my two best friends who went to Iraq with me but did not return.” Al shared Jesus with him reassuring him that Jesus could restore his joy and he would not have to perform for it.

I know that some of my blogging friends are veterans or you have sons and daughters serving our country. I thank you today from the deepest places in my heart for your service and for keeping us safe.

Unchangeable!

2011-11-08T10:53:00.008-07:00

I’m thankful today that I live in the Verde Valley in Arizona. Although I love big cities, this climate is a good fit for me; I feel healthy here. The temperatures dropped radically while I was out in the country this weekend. It was cloudy but I threw my camera in my purse anyhow and snapped away as I drove around.

I like this picture of the cliffs. It reminds me of the caves David hid in when Saul was after him in 1 Samuel 26. The passage refers to the wilderness of Judea, a desolate area by the Dead Sea. The hills have deep gorges.

I can just imagine the fun the kids must have had when they decorated this tree! Adds a little color to the desert, don’t you think?

The Pampas Grass is blooming all over now.

A cold front moved into our state a few days ago. It’s been chilly and nice! Sweater weather is here. I look cold!

Last weekend many people set their clocks back. Now my TV shows are off schedule and when I call my family in California, I have to remember they are one hour behind me. In Arizona, our time does not change. What else doesn’t change? Jesus Christ does not change. He’s the same Yesterday, today and forever. That’s what’s on my heart today. This post links to What’s on your heart Tuesdays, hosted by Shanda.

Maybe We Need A King

2011-11-05T13:02:00.005-07:00

I hung up the phone and wanted to do cartwheels all over my office and dance, too. I had been talking with my boss for about ten minutes when he referred to Jesus as King of everything!

The economy has hit us hard here in Arizona, especially in the housing industry. Our office has sold homes consistently nonetheless, so our owner calls often to discuss business. In our conversation this week, he referred to our current white house administration. Then Mr. Boss said this: “I’m thinking that maybe we need a king this next election.” And I said: “Oh, no Boss! What if we don’t like him? We won’t be able to vote him out in four years! The only king I would consider is King Jesus.” Then he said: “Jesus is already king; He’s king of everything!”

Today, I’m thanking God for this conversation. I’m thanking Him that down deep inside, I realize that my boss knows the King of Kings and I can’t express how liberated that makes me feel. We share the same hope!

^9-10 Shout and cheer, Daughter Zion!

Raise the roof, Daughter Jerusalem!
Your king is coming!
a good king who makes all things right,
a humble king riding a donkey,
a mere colt of a donkey.
I've had it with war—no more chariots in Ephraim,
no more war horses in Jerusalem,
no more swords and spears, bows and arrows.
He will offer peace to the nations,
a peaceful rule worldwide,
from the four winds to the seven seas.

^11-13"And you, because of my blood covenant with you,
I'll release your prisoners from their hopeless cells.
Come home, hope-filled prisoners!
This very day I'm declaring a double bonus—
everything you lost returned twice-over!

Zechariah 9: 9-13

This post links to Charlotte, hostess of Spiritual Sundays.

Friday Funnies ~ Thanksgiving Dinner Conversations

2011-11-04T06:22:00.006-07:00

Suggestions to Liven Up Thanksgiving Dinner

1. Load your plate up high; take it to the kitchen, toss it all in the blender and take your "shake" back to the table. Announce that it's the new Thanksgiving Weight Loss Shake.

2. When everyone says, in turn, what they are thankful for, say, "I'm thankful I didn't get caught," and refuse to say anything more.

3. Bring a date that only talks about the tragic and abusive conditions known to exist at turkey farms.

4. During mid-meal, turn to Mom and say, "See mom, I told you they wouldn't notice that the turkey was past the expiration date. You were worried for nothing."

Wishing you a wonderful Friday. For more smiles, go to Homesteader's Heart

Thankful for Hair Color and Faith

2011-11-03T13:03:00.004-07:00

I’m thanking Jesus today that He cares about everything in my life big and small!

My “read through the Bible” plan this year has me in one of the gospels every single day. I see over and over again how faith pleases Jesus and He easily can heal, deliver and teach. But I also see how disappointed He is when people do not believe. This difference made a change in me. I want to believe Him, to please Him.

I made a faith declaration and it came true, but it is kind of funny. I hesitate mentioning it for fear it makes me look like a tightwad. My husband took me to lunch this week and on the way, I asked him to stop at Walgreens my favorite drug store for hair color. I mentioned to him that I didn’t have my coupon file but needed color and will just run in and buy a box. His reply surprised me. He said: “Why don’t you believe for a sale?” “Okay, I said. I’ll make a faith declaration!”

I was just in the store two days ago and the brand I buy was full price, but that afternoon it was on sale, by golly. You had to buy two but instead of $8 they were on sale for $6 plus you get $2.00 back in register rewards! Wow! However, when I paid for it, the cash register did not spit out the register rewards. The manager was called and asked me if I had a manufacturer’s coupon to complete this sale. Nope! I was just about to speak and admit that I really didn’t qualify for this sale when the Lord told me to remain silent. She cancelled my original purchase and then rang up my boxes of color at $6 each again! Then she opened her drawer and handed me $2.00 making the sale $5 per box, unheard of for this brand. Why was I getting such preferential treatment? Was it because I’m loyal to her store or was she just professional in her job? Those of us in sales know that you want your customer walking out the door feeling like they got a good deal. I felt like I got a big serving of grace.

This message isn’t about hair color. It’s about believing. Believing for a discount is a little thing, but the concept is the same for everything. God showed me through this that He wants me to believe Him today for everything! He wants me to believe He’s God and He covers everything, even my hair!

This post links to Not About Me November and 30 Days of Thanksgiving-Reflections of His Grace, both on my side bar.

Gratitude Affects Attitude

2011-11-01T07:30:00.005-07:00

Being thankful changes us! One of my favorite Thanksgiving memories happened several years ago when I was asked to share in the program at our town’s Thanksgiving service held at the high school auditorium on Thanksgiving Eve. My youngest daughter was attending the high school; simultaneously, I was attending the weekly Moms in Touch meetings praying for the high school, our kids, their curriculum, and their teachers. I felt honored to represent this successful ministry in our little town and talk about it in the assembly. I saw the troubled kids who got help, the rebels who got caught because we prayed and the opportunities that arose to share our faith with our kids’ teachers. Those teachers knew we loved them and we wowed them with big fancy luncheons.

I polished my speech. I was enthusiastic and assumed that my excitement would ignite my audience and perhaps even increase our membership! However, time was running out and something was definitely lacking. I stopped and asked the Lord what was wrong. Was it me? Was it my message? God seemed silent. How do I sound less like a saleswoman and more like an anointed speaker motivating the audience?

I started listening to the local Christian radio station. “Three Days of Thanksgiving” featured Christians calling in and testifying to the faithfulness of God. Their lives were in shambles, but God was helping them supernaturally and their thankful hearts ministered to my spirit. I listened and cried and fell on my knees in awe of our God who rescues His people. Gratitude was amplified in the walls of my home and in my car as I tuned in every chance I got to the amazing testimonies of Jesus Christ working in everyday people’s lives. I became addicted to thanksgiving in the airwaves.

When I stood up at that assembly to speak on that Thanksgiving Eve, my message still contained the same facts, but my heart exploded with thankfulness to our God. The audience was touched and it had nothing to do with me or my ministry but because Thanksgiving is all about God. What resonated with my listeners was that God is alive and loves us, and we become changed when we express our gratitude.

I am excited to participate in two blog themes that generate thankfulness to our God this month. I don’t blog every day, but I read blogs every day and I know the dynamism of thanksgiving. It is contagious and affects our attitudes. It prepares our hearts for that special holiday.

Consider “It’s Not About Me November” hosted by Laura at www.Beholdinglory.com and also “30 Days of Thanksgiving; reflections of His Grace” hosted by Joan at www.reflectionsofhisgrace.com -- both on my sidebar.

Let’s explode the internet with thanksgiving!

I'm Not An Engineer, But God Is!

2011-10-28T18:50:00.006-07:00

One of the prettiest things is watching the rain gently fall in the desert cleansing all the foliage and cactus from everyday dust. Rain has been a joy where I live, that is until the rancher across the road leveled her pasture in order to bring in homeless horses that she had a heart to save. This created standing water on our lower property when the rains hit hard. We didn’t know what to do; we’ve never experienced so much collected water in the two decades we’ve lived here. Storms made me nervous wondering if the massive rush of water would reach too close to the house. I have been praying about this a long time. We’re not engineers, but God is. Last weekend, my SIL came out with his backhoe and a plan and dug a narrow pathway to reroute the ferocious water keeping it far from my house. Success! And, it came just in time for our first autumn rainstorm just two days ago.

Oddly, I saw a similar lesson during my study time in Acts 26 and noticed, again, how God engineered a new path for ferocious energy. No Nonsense Paul was on his way to torture Christians so they would curse Christ. But that Bright Light, brighter than the sun, knocked him off his horse and revealed the truth to his blind eyes. This story never loses its power for me. In fact, it inspires me every time I read it and I pray that the Lord will take the evil energy my prodigal walks in and reroute it for God’s kingdom and glory. I pray today that not only my prodigal, but all prodigals that are bringing such pain to their families will be captivated by the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ and turn their lives around. Imagine all that mighty energy turning around for good!

“Heavenly Father, I stand today believing that you are working in the lives of our prodigals. Open their eyes to their true spiritual condition so that they can repent and be free from the bondage of sin. May your loving kindness lead them to freedom and may they choose to walk in your light and be restored to You and their families once again. Amen.”

My post today links to Brag On God Fridays and Spiritual Sundays!

My Mums are Yellow

2011-10-25T08:22:00.004-07:00

How often are you influenced by a blog post you have read and the next thing you know you're acting it out? I read Myra’s post this weekend about an expected cool front coming to our state tomorrow. It will feel like autumn in the Arizona desert! Can’t wait! Her suggestion of chrysanthemums registered in my brain so, of course, I had to accompany my handsome husband to the nursery over the weekend when he bought a new tree. I chose my first pot of fall flowers for this season, bright yellow mums, and I held them in my lap on the ride home.

Just for fun, I looked up the meaning of yellow mums: “slighted love.” What exactly does that mean? Another translation says: “gently declining amorous advances”. Pictures spun in my head of shy Victorian young women.

This message is the opposite of my 2011 word from the Lord this year of His extravagant love that He lavishes on us. There are no limits to love at least when it comes to our Savior! How wonderful to have that person in this life that you can totally trust in and rely on. And even though I’ve known Him so personally for so many years, the excitement is still there like when I first met Him. I’m not shy to love Him back either with everything I’ve got embracing Him with all my heart and soul.

Gee, perhaps I should have chosen a different colored mum?

This post links to On Your Heart Tuesdays.

Jubilant Triumph

2011-10-22T18:39:00.004-07:00

This past week has not been fun for me even though my daughter and her little one spent the week with us celebrating two October family birthdays. You see, in the midst of celebrating, I got sick. I was actually happy to go to work midweek thinking that my germs would be contained away from home, but by the time I got to my office on the second day, I could not stand long or keep anything down. Our precious Hispanic cleaning lady entered my office to clean and shook her head and began speaking Spanish using a lot of “citas, citas” on the ending of her words. Must be an endearing term. Her gaze said: “you poor, dear little thing.” I know I looked awful.

I will say though that we were able to get in some good times with the kids before influenza hit me and I’m grateful for that. Then this morning came. Sadness loomed large when we had the vet put Frankie, our Great Dane/Lab, down. I feel most sorry for Dice; they were a close twosome for almost fifteen years. It’s quiet in our home today. The kids returned to their homes and Frankie is gone.

It is little wonder why I latched on to a Bible teaching that uplifted my spirits. The focus is on Jesus as our “Jubilee!” The teacher quoted in Luke 4 how Jesus entered the temple and sat and preached to the people as to why He came. He quoted to them Isaiah 61:1-2 in Lu 4:18 which my Amplified says this way:

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me (The Anointed one, Messiah) to preach the good news (gospel) to the poor; He has sent Me to announce release to the captives, recovery of sight to the blind; to send forth delivered those who are oppressed—who are downtrodden, bruised, crushed and broken down by calamity.

Then He says in Lu 4:19 “to proclaim the accepted and acceptable year of the Lord—the day when salvation and the free favors of God profusely abound.” If you refer to the Old Testament, Leviticus 25:9-13, it talks about the acceptable year of the Lord. The passage shows us:

Jubilee was a culmination of all Sabbaths
Every seventh day was a Sabbath to the Lord, a day of rest
Every seven years , the land rested, no planting.
After seven years of Sabbaths, or 49 years, the 50th year, a new cycle would start
The year of Jubilee began on the Day of Atonement with the sound of the trumpet. Day of Atonement this year was October 7th, just two weeks ago.
During that next year, all property was returned to its owner and all debt was cancelled. Slaves were set free.
No one was excluded because all residents of the land qualified!
Social status, color, sex or financial position did not matter.
Unfortunately, Jubilee only lasted one year. You had to wait for 49 more years to be liberated again.

Now compare this to Jesus. He says in Luke 4:21 “This day this scripture is fulfilled in your ears.” Jesus is our Jubilee! He’s living in us now. We don’t have to wait 50 years; we’ve been liberated from the curse of the law. Sound the trumpet of freedom! We’re free from slavery to Satan, sickness and disease, fear, debt, lack and poverty. We are free to receive the fullness of the blessing.

For me personally, Jesus is my comfort and my healer. I praise Him as I look back over the week’s events and remember how my family checked in on me at my worst hour. Each of them called on the Name of the Lord and prayed for my healing. I started to get well quickly. I am blessed. And when we left the veterinarian and his wife this morning, we were given compassionate hugs and caring words. Jesus is near. Everything is going to be okay.

I'm linking this post to Spiritual Sundays hosted by Charlotte.

Friday Funnies in Costumes

2011-10-21T09:28:00.008-07:00

I'm linking up to Kim at homesteader's heart for Friday Funnies!

My Declaration Came True!

2011-10-16T09:28:00.004-07:00

One of my faith declarations this past year has been: "I attend Christian Women's conferences with my daughters." It came to pass this past weekend! My youngest daughter, Carrie, came up with a great plan while I was visiting her in California his week, that we drive up the Pacific Coast to Long Beach and attend the Joyce Meyer Conference on "Pressing In and Pressing On." This conference, at the huge Long Beach Convention Center, was exhilarating in praise and worship and teachings. It was Carrie's first experience seeing her mentor on stage!

Our recap of the teachings kept us jabbering all the way home. I do not want to forget:

To be victorious we have to press past the pain and deal with pressures. The rewards will come in due time.

All people hurt because life isn't fair. We have three choices to deal with pain: 1) press into the pressure of the pain and be all that God wants me to be, 2)choose to deal with it all later, 3) choose the pain forever and ignore my hurts. It's #1 for us!

Cease from dwelling on my trouble and stop talking about it all the time. Dwell on obedience. God promises a reward in due time.

Blaming others magnifies my pain. Take responsibility for myself.

Conquer evil by doing good. Romans 12:21

Feelings that are buried are alive and never die until I give them to Jesus otherwise they are manifested some other way: overeating, working too hard/no fun, health issues, etc.

I could go on and on sharing my notes. We had so much fun together; it was the perfect "mother daughter memory". The drive home was sunny filled with beautiful ocean views, stops for lunch, the beach, shops, yogurt and friendly conversations with others.

A special thank you hug to Lisa, Glenda, Kay, Amy and Denise for praying for us to be able to go on time and be safe.

This post links to Spiritual Sundays.

Reprieve

2011-10-08T14:11:00.006-07:00

The Lord is faithful to all His promises
And loving toward all He has made.
The Lord upholds all those who fall
And lifts up all who are bowed down.
The eyes of all look to you,
And you give them their food at the proper time.
You open your hand and satisfy the desires of
Every living thing. Psalm 145:13b - 16

Temperatures drastically dropped here in the desert this week and after a few days of rain, everything looked fresh and green again. I notice relief the most at night; it seems sleep is deeper and longer under feathered comforters.

I also experienced a reprieve in my spiritual life this week. I’m praising God because He knows we can’t tolerate continual stressful situations. This week I’m praising Him for stress busters like pizza and ice cream and forgiveness.

Thank you, Lord, for seasons and little breakthroughs!

This post links with Charlotte at Spiritual Sundays.

Christian Panties

2011-10-07T07:20:00.003-07:00

For more Friday Funnies, visit Kim at Homesteader's Heart!

Road Repairs!

2011-10-04T15:35:00.004-07:00

My town is anything but fun to drive through these days. Construction crews are everywhere working to widen the main two-lane road. Road signs that say “this way” with arrows are strewn along the path and you have to drive your car between narrow orange cones for miles. You have to take detours. What I dislike the most is waiting. If I time it just right, all that’s required is slowing down and waiting a few minutes for the pilot car to lead me to the other side. But all too often, I end up in long lines while traffic moves the opposite way and my car stands still in line with other impatient drivers for over 20 minutes! It makes it difficult to time travelling to appointments. Last week I was 15 minutes late for my Life Group, a small cell group from church, and they start promptly!

I know that in the months ahead, our road will be repaired. It will be safer, more attractive and a dream to drive on and waiting in long lines of traffic will be a lost memory. But in the meantime, I’m inconvenienced!

Isn’t it like this in our spiritual lives, too? I want to cross quickly from one place to the next but hindrances happen. Detours are required and I realize that the narrow path is hard. I want my way. I want my plan and have to slow down and accept God’s rerouting whether I like it or not. I want to go “here” and He says “No, go there!” I know that in the end, His purpose prevails and someday I will say “Thank you, Lord.” But all too often, I’m impatient for the process of His promises to come to pass.

“You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my Name, and you will have abundant joy.” John 16:24. This was the first scripture I read this morning and it’s been pulsating in my heart throughout the day reminding me that nothing and no one can steal my joy. Regardless of life’s deviations, I can call on the Name of Jesus and He will give me joy to do anything and be anywhere I need to be! I’ve been thinking about this all day, especially when I sat still in today's road repairs!

This post links to On Your Heart Tuesdays. What's on your heart?

The Head of the Year

2011-09-29T22:06:00.004-07:00

Every fall my pastor and his wife take a few days away and quiet down somewhere seeking the Lord for His direction for the coming year. I think this is fantastic. What a great time of year to do this! It goes right along with the fall Jewish feast of Rosh Hashanah where our Jewish friends and also many followers of Jesus Christ celebrate their Hebraic roots. There's a saying, "No man knows the hour or the day" so the celebration began this year on September 28 lasting through September 30. I love Rosh Hashanah and as a Christian I celebrate for these reasons:

The shofar or Ram’s Horn is blown representing the crowning of the people’s king. The celebration of music and dance is joyful and worshipful. One day the final trumpet will sound when Jesus comes back for His Bride and we will meet Him in the air!

It is the entering into a time of serious reflection for a solid week ending on Yom Kippur, a day of fasting. This is a neat time of pressing into the Lord making sure nothing is hindering as we seek Him with sober purpose to strengthen our relationship with Him.

It is a time of eagerness to hear God’s leading for the coming year asking Him for good health, peace and prosperity.

It’s a special time of the year for us Christians to be givers showing God we are serious about planting a significant seed into His kingdom and propagating the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. This is a portal, or window, of special blessing. There are three Jewish feast days in scripture that require a special offering and Rosh Hashanah is a priority.

And what about the food? I love to prepare a beef brisket in a sweet sauce for a special dinner along with Challah bread and dip my apple slices in honey for dessert!

Rosh Hashanah is the beginning of the New Year in the Hebrew calendar. It means "Head of the Year." It is an opportune time to seek the Lord and ask for His direction for the coming year. He has been so faithful to answer me over the years. Two years ago the word was trust and I learned to trust Him more deeply. Last year the word was love and I’m amazed at all He taught me about His love. I look forward to what God will reveal for this coming year. I’m ready to listen.

“Shana Tova!” “May you be inscribed and sealed for a good year.”

This post links to Laura at Beholding Glory.

Desert Diversion

2011-09-28T12:54:00.010-07:00

Our trip to New Mexico was filled with happy times. So much caught our eye as we passed little towns on the highway and when we arrived in Las Cruces, we couldn’t have been more comfortable staying with our family there. Their home, set back in the foothills of Soledad Canyon, is beautiful. We were constantly on the go visiting scenic mountain views from hiking trails, borrowing saucers so we could slide down the beautiful White Sands hills, visiting the huge Farmer’s Market, and touring the old city of Mesilla with its historic landmarks and shops and eating authentic Mexican food. Most importantly, Dice got to spend days with his cousin, Wayne, enjoying memories and creating tons of new ones! Our family loves Wayne’s wife, Linda, and we appreciate all the cooking she did as well as entertaining us with stories of her busy life. What can be better than precious time with family? Currently, I’m putting together a new slide show. These are a few of the photos I will be featuring.

Our hearts are full with thanksgiving as we reminisce about our trip and recall all the family love we received, all the good food and magnificent desert beauty. Likewise, as I opened my Bible today to John 16, I saw the generosity of Jesus reassuring us that we can go directly to the Father and ask Him what we want because we use His Name. Talk about generosity! This is what is on my heart today and I’m praising God for His amazing love for us. Being part of His family is a privilege. A special thanks to you, my friends, for dropping by and leaving loving comments and well wishes for our trip. They were so much fun to read!

My post today links to On Your Heart Tuesdays at A Pause On The Path.

Another Road Trip

2011-09-21T12:12:00.006-07:00

When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.

Susan Heller

I’m packing it up again. This time it’s a road trip to New Mexico. What is fun about these long strips of desert driving is the stopping in the little towns with shops and cafes. I like the oasis they provide amidst all the cactus and dust.

I had lunch with my girlfriend, Maureen, yesterday. We meet every few months to prioritize our friendship over a luscious lunch usually in nice places with tablecloths. I know it’s a woman thing. Maureen said: “Again you are going somewhere?” I didn’t realize how many times I have been able to pick up and go over the summer. What a blessing! I better stop calling myself a homebody who likes to stay put in my cozy home because it isn’t always the case.

This time, we are visiting my husband’s family in New Mexico. Dice was an only child and often misses the comfort that family brings now that his own parents have passed on. His cousin, Wayne, moved from Chicago to New Mexico and we are thrilled to live in closer proximity. I look forward to seeing his new home and meeting his wife. Our daughter, Amy, will be with us on this trip. Should be fun family time! New Mexico is beautiful!

I will be offline for a while, but I always like to remind you that your friendship and prayer requests are dear to my heart. One thing I always pack is my prayer closet. Until next time…..

Smarty Pants

2011-09-19T21:19:00.004-07:00

“Preconceived notions are the locks on the door to wisdom.”

Merry Browne

No one is more surprised than me when I realize I’m not all that smart at times. On my recent trip to the mall to shop for end-of-summer discounted 70 percent clothing, I learned something about myself. I thought I was buying clothes; but I was developing an open mind!

I always thought I was too large to wear white pants so I never bought them. When I was visiting my sister in Chicago, she looked stunning in them and we are the same size. I found a $40 pair reduced to $8 and had to try them on. They looked great and were nice and long for my tall frame. I bought them!

Preconceived ideas are haunting. I cringe at the times they wiggle themselves into my personal Bible studies. How arrogant to think I know what a passage is all about because it is familiar to me. Sometimes I forget that God’s Word is alive and full of power and can change me unlike any other written concepts.

I heard a great sermon about marriage last Sunday taught by our husband & wife pastoral team. What leaped out at me in their presentation was “Listen to your spouse with your heart and not your head.” Sometimes we hear our spouse through filters of anger, rejection or some other emotion. Oh, my! I can think of times that preconceived ideas kept me from hearing what my husband was saying. I would think to myself “yeah, I’ve heard that before; you will never change.” Talk about a defeatist attitude!

I smiled when I put my new white pants on a hanger and hung them up in my clothes closet next to a row of black slacks and dark blue jeans. The “White Pants Victory” is just the beginning. With the Lord’s help, I hope to be victorious in these other areas, too!

This post links to On Your Heart Tuesdays.

Costa Rica

2011-09-17T08:57:00.008-07:00

A few years ago, my husband and I revisited beautiful Costa Rica. This time our daughter, Amy, joined us. Today's post is a trip down memory lane!

The Toucans were beautiful!

Amy met new friends and they joined her on the Zip Line Canopy Tour. Adventurous!

We spent a day in the rainforest. Beautiful!

My post links today to Shanda's blog, A Pause On The Path. I am participating in "In Search of Beauty." Be sure to visit and enjoy God's beauty everywhere.

Wolf in Christian Clothes

2011-09-16T09:09:00.006-07:00

I don’t like it when people use Christianity to promote themselves. I have to tell you what happened to me this week.

I bumped into a contractor-business friend when I was at Home Depot last week. This guy has been seeking our company’s employment. But something always disturbed me about our conversations. The best way I can describe him would be “slick” even though we talked about topics near and dear to my heart like Jesus, prayer, missions and scripture. So that day, Mr. Slick again asked me if I had any need for his construction business. Actually, I did. I described the particulars of a recent sale and the price I was willing to pay for construction. He agreed, I scheduled him for the job and we departed company. A few days went by and I received his faxed proposal bid and that’s when I felt like the wind got knocked out of me. It was almost twice the amount of our verbal agreement at Home Depot!

Why was I so angry? Besides being taken advantage of, I was disappointed. How I had hoped to work with a Christian contractor, blessing a brother in the Lord with more business. Instead I was being ripped off by greed leaving very little for my sale’s profit margin.

God came to my rescue! Quickly I was connected to another contractor who acknowledged that my budgeted costs were fair leaving us both a profit from the sale. Everyone seems happy now, well except for Mr. Slick.

Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:20 ring in my head: “Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit so you can identify people by their actions.” I can’t think of a better business partner than Jesus. I’m bragging on Him today. He rescued me from the Wolf.

I’m linking this post with Laura today at Brag on God Friday.

Truimph Through Storms

2011-09-12T20:34:00.009-07:00

The air has been dry with scorching temps in my desert town, so when my prayer partner, Glenda, invited me to a women’s retreat up in the mountains of Prescott, Arizona, I agreed to go. We were refreshed in the afternoon mountain rains and we were refreshed in our spirits as we praised the Lord, listened to wonderful teachings in the Word and attended workshops! It was a great time away and it is what is on my heart today as I link up with Shanda at A Pause on the Path.

This is Glenda and I settling in at the conference:

Here’s a tidbit from one of the teachings we received Friday morning that sparked my interest. The backdrop was Acts 27. Paul, as a prisoner, was sailing for Rome and they encountered strong headwinds. Some wanted to abandon the ship, but Paul persuaded them otherwise because he had a word from the Lord. The crew received Paul’s encouragement and when they hit land, they had to swim to shore along with non-swimmers holding on to debris from their broken ship. Some points of interest to me are:

1. Being in the will of God does not exempt us from experiencing storms; life is not a cruise ship full of pleasure. We can do all things right, yet we will suffer. God is with us and never abandons and the peace He gives us in these times is supernatural.

2. God wants to speak to us in storms. Paul, Moses, Joshua, David, Joseph and Jesus all got direction from God in difficult times.

3. Storms catapult us into a place of new authority. In this Acts passage, Paul went from prisoner to commander as he shared his insight from God and the crew followed him and their lives were spared. We choose either to be bitter or a fragrance to others at these times.

4. We impact other lives in storms just as Paul did in this Acts passage. There is definitely more to these storms we are in than we can see with our eyes.

Women’s retreats are so much fun. I was encouraged being with these wonderful ladies. I’m also encouraged at Share Your Heart Tuesdays where many share what’s on their hearts.

Layman's Commandments

2011-09-10T12:02:00.003-07:00

Some clever writer wrote these good words to enhance our lives. I'm linking this post today to Spiritual Sundays.

1) Prayer is not a "spare wheel" that you pull out when in trouble, but it is a "steering wheel" that directs the right path throughout.

2) Why is a Car's WINDSHIELD so large & the Rear view Mirror is so small? It is because our PAST is not as important as our FUTURE. So, Look Ahead and Move on.

3) Friendship is like a BOOK. It takes few seconds to burn, but it takes years to write.

4) All things in life are temporary. If going well, enjoy it, they will not last forever. If going wrong, don't worry, they can't last long either.

5) Old Friends are Gold! New Friends are Diamond! If you get a Diamond, don't forget the Gold! Because to hold a Diamond, you always need a Base of Gold!

6) Often when we lose hope and think this is the end, GOD smiles from above and says, "Relax, sweetheart, it's just a bend, not the end!

7) When GOD solves your problems, you have faith in HIS abilities; when GOD doesn't solve your problems HE has faith in your abilities.

8) A blind person once asked "Can there be anything worse than losing eye sight?" He replied: "Yes, losing your vision!"

9) When you pray for others, God listens to you and blesses them, and sometimes, when you are safe and happy, remember that someone has prayed for you.

10) WORRYING does not take away tomorrow's TROUBLES; it takes away today's PEACE.

The Available Husband

2011-09-05T19:38:00.006-07:00

Jesus makes a great husband not to mention an awesome communicator. Here’s what happened to me this morning in my kitchen as I finished cleaning up after breakfast. My kitchen faucet lever snapped off while the water was flowing full blast and steaming hot. I panicked like a crazy woman. My hubby just left for the Recreation Center in a nearby town 15 miles from our home. I couldn't reach him on his cell. I was in a tizzy and that’s when I called on the Name of the Lord. I picked up the broken piece amidst the blast of steaming water and tried to fit the jagged edges together to at least shut off the flowing water. It worked.

Years ago we nicknamed my husband “Dice” for fun and it fits him perfectly because you never know what you are going to get. I learned that he didn’t even have his cell phone with him this morning! When I finally calmed down and resumed praying, Jesus got a heavy dose of praise for being there. I thought long about the immediacy of His Presence; He always is there. He said He would never leave me and He meant it.

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” Deu 31:8

“I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.” Heb. 13:5

I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you. Joshua 1:5

Modern technology is a blessing. I was able to contact my daughter who also works out at the Rec Center in the early hours of the morning. She did have her cell and was able to track down Dice so he could pick up a new faucet while he was there in town. But, I have to say, nothing beats the instant attention of the Lord. I’m never alone when I’m with Him and the neat thing is that I don’t have to leave a voice message nor do I have to go through some influential big name for access to Him. Whisper His Name and He’s there! He’s the available husband.

This post links up today to Shanda at A Pause on the Path

More Than A Walk

2011-09-03T06:09:00.004-07:00

I heard an interesting message on Christian TV. The teacher‘s main point was that lost souls are won only by hearing the truth. He validated intercessory prayer and spiritual warfare as legitimate biblical principles, but he hammered the point that Paul is our example and as he traveled to the lost and preached the Word of God, he won souls because they heard the truth. This teacher clearly does not like the movement taught in many Christian circles called “prayer walking.” Prayer Walking, in a nutshell, is intercession for your neighbors and your neighborhood.

I attended a Prayer Walking seminar several years ago and I don’t think it harmed me or that I harmed anyone. I remember receiving a lot of handouts and going home with acute awareness for my neighbors’ mortal souls and final destination. I assimilated the teaching as best I knew how to in the course of my day careful not to make a performance or a doctrine out of what I learned. I’ve always been one to start my day with a mile walk so I prayed for my neighbors as I exercised. The reason the TV preacher rejects the Prayer Walking Ministry, is because he doesn’t feel that we have to intercede and battle in the spirit realm before we share the gospel with others. It stands alone to save. He said Paul never had to do that. He stated that some folks call themselves intercessors and claim to have a ministry of only praying for others salvation eliminating the need to share Christ and His gospel.

My experience with Prayer Walking led to sharing the gospel. I did not have to knock on their doors and ask them if they were saved. One neighbor, knowing I was a Christian, called me one day and asked me to pray about her personal crisis. I went over and prayed with her in person and then invited her to a Christian women’s outreach. This neighbor heard the gospel preached at that Christian luncheon but on our drive home she told me she rejected the message. Another couple invited me to their home when the wife was diagnosed with terminal cancer. We prayed together and we discussed the gospel of Jesus and they were so grateful for the encouragement. She died about a year later.

My closing thought is that Jesus is my example. He did it all. He prayed, interceded, delivered, healed and taught. I can do nothing apart from Him. So I say to Him, “here are my feet today, Jesus. Tell me what to do.” What is my ministry? Why, it is to do whatever He wants me to and sometimes it includes prayer walking.

This post links to Charlotte & Ginger at Spiritual Sundays.

Friday Funnies ~ What Are You Cooking for the Labor Day Weekend?

2011-09-02T06:02:00.004-07:00

My friend, Lori, asked me: “What do you think you’ll be cooking for the Labor Day weekend?” I think I will tell her “Redneck Turtle Burgers.”
This is a recipe I got from a gal in Missouri who has a great sense of humor!

She forms ground beef patties, topped with sharp cheddar cheese, wrapped in a bacon weave, then the next step, is to add hot dogs as the heads, legs with slits for toes and tail.
Place on an oven rack, covered loosely with foil and baked for 20-30 minutes at 400 degrees.
A little crispy, not too crunchy...just how a turtle should be, no?

Wishing all of you a fun and safe Labor Day weekend! This post links to Kim, hostess of Friday Funnies.

Praying with Power and Fashion

2011-08-30T09:37:00.003-07:00

Prayer journals take on interesting personalities, don’t they? My collection varies from three-ring binders to photo albums filled with scripture promises to declare. I’ve decided to place a little notebook covered with dainty green and pink flowers right next to my desktop so I can write down those desperate cries for God’s help I read about on so many of your blogs. And I have to say, the cute notebook gives my desk some charm.

I got the notebook idea while visiting my daughter. She keeps a travel size notebook in her purse at all times. One Sunday she took me to church with her and introduced me to some friends there as well as in the coffee shop afterwards and the thrift store after that. Every conversation led to a need for prayer and out came her notebook so she wouldn’t forget! Now I understand why we Christians are never alone. God says He’ll never leave us. I was thinking about this today and how we, in the Body of Christ, link to that promise. We carry within us His spirit and take to those who look for miracles. We never stand alone. The power of prayer always energizes me.

This same daughter with the bulldog faith just placed a prayer vigil on her blog, Pain to Purpose, asking for prayer support for what seems impossible but yet God said was possible. My heart leapt at the response. Half of the required time slots are claimed. Clearly she does not stand alone in her faith assignment!

The Christian blogging community cannot be contained. It is the place to see faith enacted and motivation to embrace Kingdom principles. I’m thankful to be part of it. Perhaps my little flowered-notebook has your request in it, too!

I Dare You to Love Like This!

2011-08-27T09:26:00.004-07:00

I’m determined to not just study God’s Word, but implement it. It’s hard. Back in January, I wrote about the direction the Lord gave me for 2011. Whereas last year I focused on trusting Him to a greater degree, this year is all about loving. To love deeply you have to spend time with Jesus, see the best in people, speak right words and clean up your heart every day. I take the verse in 1 John 3:18 seriously.

Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

My granddaughter is only going on three but she taught me an important lesson. Her Mama seldom wins the battle of keeping her hair out of her eyes with piggy tails. In two seconds, she pulls them right out. While visiting last time, it was my responsibility to dress her one morning. When we got to brushing her hair, I asked her where her barrettes are. She told me that she just wants to look at them. In other words, I can’t put them in yet. It’s the same with the potty. She eagerly wants us to read books about using the potty, but isn’t ready to sit on it quite yet.

I see myself that way, too. I’m a cautious type, but the call is to love boldly. I’ve read all about it in the Bible! Therefore, my mind is set to forgive more deeply, speak more carefully, let God lead me more and choose my friends more wisely. This will be another triumphant year. I just know it. By the way, I got that wonderful call a few days ago reporting that my granddaughter used her potty! It looks like we are both on our way to victory!

My post today connects to Spiritual Sundays hosted by Ginger & Charlotte.

Friday Funnies ~ Warshing Clothes

2011-08-26T05:29:00.004-07:00

Warshing Clothes

Build fire in backyard to heat kettle of rain water.

Set tubs so smoke wont blow in eyes if wind is pert.

Shave one hole cake of lie soap in boilin water.

Sort things, make 3 piles
1 pile white,
1 pile colored,
1 pile work britches and rags.

To make starch, stir flour in cool water to smooth, then thin down with boiling water.

Take white things, rub dirty spots on board, scrub hard, and boil, then rub colored don't boil just wrench and starch.

Take things out of kettle with broom stick handle, then wrench, and starch.
Hang old rags on fence.
Spread tea towels on grass.
Pore wrench water in flower bed. Scrub porch with hot soapy water.
Turn tubs upside down.

Go put on clean dress, smooth hair with hair combs. Brew cup of tea, sit and rock a spell and count your blessings.

Ladies, are you glad we live in the days that we do? I got this from my girlfriend, Bev, who is shouting praises for our modern washing machines. I’m not from the south so she had to teach me that “wrench” means “rinse.”

Happy Friday! This post connects to Friday Funnies at Homesteader’s Heart.

Show Me Where to Walk

2011-08-20T09:51:00.003-07:00

Show Me Where to Walk, Lord,

For My Prayer is Sincere. Ps. 143:8

Recently I was asked: “What is it you want a double portion of from God?” My answer immediately rolled off my tongue. “I need to develop a double portion of hearing His voice!” Confidence builds when you hear Him and trust Him for direction. An example of this was when I planned my itinerary to fly back home to Chicago for a few weeks to see my family there.
I was at my desk flipping back and forth over all the flights and trying to decide how long of a visit I should plan. Confused, I quietly sat and prayed for the Lord to show me. I was determined to schedule my flights on the days the Lord wanted me to travel! One of my brothers offered to pick me up at O’Hare and since he is off on Tuesday it made sense to choose that day, but it didn't seem right. Wednesday was the day I should fly in and also fly out and I chose to stay two weeks.

Many weeks later I arrived at O’Hare and learned that a vicious storm hit the evening before, a Tuesday, and over 180 flights were delayed! But on the Wednesday evening that I flew in, my brother just got off of work about 20 minutes from the airport. It was so easy!
After my two-week stay, I boarded my flight home learning that it was a good thing I was traveling on Wednesday because the day before a major dust storm hit Phoenix and the airport was incapacitated.

I’m convinced that no man can know what’s ahead and counsel me like Jesus. That’s why I love to sit in His powerful presence. He cares more than a best friend! Who wouldn’t want a double portion of hearing Him?

I wonder what you want a double portion of?

My post is connected to Spiritual Sundays hosted by Charlotte & Ginger.

Friday Funnies!

2011-08-19T06:55:00.004-07:00

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN GUILTY OF LOOKING AT OTHERS YOUR OWN AGE AND THINKING, SURELY "I" CAN'T LOOK THAT OLD.

MY NAME IS ALICE, AND I WAS SITTING IN THE WAITING ROOM FOR MY FIRST APPOINTMENT WITH A NEW DENTIST. I NOTICED HIS DDS DIPLOMA ON THE WALL, WHICH BORE HIS FULL NAME. SUDDENLY, I REMEMBERED A TALL, HANDSOME, DARK-HAIRED BOY WITH THE SAME NAME HAD BEEN IN MY HIGH SCHOOL CLASS SOME 30-ODD YEARS AGO. COULD HE BE THE SAME GUY THAT I HAD A SECRET CRUSH ON, WAY BACK THEN? UPON SEEING HIM, HOWEVER, I QUICKLY DISCARDED ANY SUCH THOUGHT.

THIS BALDING, GRAY-HAIRED MAN WITH THE DEEPLY LINED FACE WAS WAY TOO OLD TO HAVE BEEN MY CLASSMATE.

AFTER HE EXAMINED MY TEETH, I ASKED HIM IF HE HAD ATTENDED MORGAN PARK HIGH SCHOOL. 'YES. YES, I DID. I'M A MUSTANG,' HE GLEAMED WITH PRIDE. WHEN DID YOU GRADUATE?' I ASKED. HE ANSWERED, 'IN 1975. WHY DO YOU ASK?" YOU WERE IN MY CLASS!', I EXCLAIMED. HE LOOKED AT ME CLOSELY.

THEN...
THAT UGLY,
OLD,
BALD,
WRINKLED FACED,
GRAY-HAIRED,
DECREPIT,
CREEP
ASKED:
'WHAT DID YOU TEACH?

Happy Friday, friends. For more funnies, go to Kim's at Homesteader's Heart!

Resume of Jesus Christ

2011-08-13T10:30:00.003-07:00

The Resume of Jesus Christ

Address: Ephesians 1:20
Phone: Romans 10:13
Website: The Bible. Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savior and Jesus
_____________________________________________________
Objective
My name is Jesus -The Christ . Many call me Lord!

I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart.
Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.

Qualifications
· I founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3:19)
· I formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7)
· I breathed into man the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7)
· I redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13)
· The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me, (See Galatians 3:14)
Occupational Background
· I've only had one employer, (See Luke 2:49 ).
· I've never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful.
· My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15 -17)
Skills Work Experiences
· Some of my skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18).
· I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33 ).
· Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)
Educational Background
· I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6).
· In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3).
· My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105).
· I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).
Major Accomplishments
· I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26 ).
· I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15 ).
· I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15 ).
· I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead!
· There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can read them on my website, which is located at: www dot - the BIBLE. You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.
References
· Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healing, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance
In Summation
Now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths, (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life, (See John 6:47 ). When can I start? Time is of the essence, (See Hebrews 3:15 ).

My girlfriend, Kay, emailed me this today and I had to share it with you! I'm linking this post to Spiritual Sundays.

Friday Funnies!

2011-08-12T08:04:00.002-07:00

This post links up with Kim at Homesteader's Heart. Have a fun Friday, everyone!

A Fascinating Testimony

2011-08-08T14:56:00.004-07:00

One of my greatest thrills in life these days is watching God do the impossible. I heard a guest speaker at my daughter's church yesterday who spoke about his transformed life. From what did Jesus save this man? A felon, he was delivered from a life of crime.

As he spoke, my interest switched to his beautiful wife who waited in the loneliest of times for God to touch her husband's soul. I couldn't help but wonder how she coped raising two little ones while her beloved man served ten years in prison for racketeering. I learned from her story that when God gives you what seems like an impossible faith assignment, He also gives you everything you need to pursue the end goal. In her case, it was support from her Mom who had a spiritual gift of intercession.

Today my eyes caught a great verse taped to my daughter's computer. It reads:

"Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished." Luke 1:45

I stand fixed and encouraged believing for what seems impossible to me because God says it is achievable!

Friday Funnies!

2011-08-05T07:38:00.003-07:00

Happy Friday, everyone! I was just visiting Kim at Homesteader's Heart and noticed she is featuring Friday Funnies again and targeting marriage today. Now that's something we can always laugh about, right? In honor of celebrating my anniversary this weekend, I have a funny I must include!

WIFE VS. HUSBAND

A couple drove down a country road for several miles, not saying a word.

An earlier discussion had led to an argument and

neither of them wanted to concede their position.

As they passed a barnyard of mules, goats, and pigs,

the husband asked sarcastically, 'Relatives of yours?'

'Yep,' the wife replied, 'in-laws.'

A Forty Year Legacy in the Making!

2011-08-03T12:48:00.008-07:00

Forty years of marriage; whew! Our anniversary is next Sunday and the kids are all here celebrating with us this week. Having them with us during this time and being all together has been wonderful. We've been looking at family photos. I love vintage photos and family history.

We are blessed to have long-lasting marriages in our families. My grandparents married in the early 1900’s. Unfortunately, they didn't live long and passed before their fiftieth anniversary mark.

But my Mom and Dad were married fifty years just before my Dad died.

My husband’s parents were married for 37 years before his mom passed on, way too early in life.

We were married on August 7, 1971. The family is heading out to San Diego tomorrow for more fun out there celebrating on the beach!

• Be devoted and give preference to one another. (Romans 12:10)
• Accept one another. (Romans 15:7)
• Care for one another. (1 Corinthians 12:25)
• Carry each other’s burdens. (Galatians 6:2)
• Forgive one another. (Ephesians 4:32)
• Encourage, build up one another. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
• Spur one another on to love and good deeds. (Hebrews 10:24)
• Confess your sins to one another. (James 5:16)
• Pray for one another. (James 5:16)

It's All Relative

2011-07-22T19:19:00.005-07:00

It always amazes me when people witness the favor of God and still hesitate to follow Him preferring their familiar surroundings and friends. I read Numbers 10 this week. I noticed that Moses invited his brother-in-law to join the caravan to the Promised Land. The invitation was turned down. You have to wonder why. “No, I will not go. I must return to my own land and family” his brother-in-law said. Imagine that! The children of Israel were carrying the Ark of the Covenant. The presence of God was right with them and the Lord was leading them! What can replace a loving God who provides His children with a covenant to care for them and protect them?

As I read further, I embraced their prayer and made it my own. Rise up, Lord, and let thy enemies be scattered. In the wilderness they encountered enemies. They looked to God for success and victory in their warfare as well as their needs for supplies and protection.

God has made Himself so personal to me over the past few years providing me with His peace and His rest in my own personal wilderness amidst my enemies. This gives me an understanding of covenant and I’m in awe of Him. It’s not clear to me if Moses’ brother-in-law changed his mind and joined the party in the desert, but it’s crystal clear to me that there is no other place I’d rather be than in covenant with my God. He’s alive! Like Moses, I want every member of my family to partake of the Promise! Yes, it’s all relative.

This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays hosted by Ginger and Charlotte.

Chicago family Reunion

2011-07-11T12:47:00.018-07:00

In family life, love is the oil that eases friction, the cement that binds closer together, and the music that brings harmony. --Eva Burrows

I’m back from Chicago and recharged! Can’t wait to share some memories! Family times are the best. It seems I was always eating a meal with someone and I gained four pounds.

My mother turned 96! We all gathered around her and celebrated with cake decorated in her favorite color, pink!

My sister and brothers occupy a close place in my heart. We enjoyed long talks together. The guys are funny so while they were cracking jokes and we laughed big, the camera snapped!

One night we all got together and read letters Mom wrote in the early 50’s to one of our second cousins, Richard, who was in the Army. Rich was kind enough to give them to us after all these years and we gleaned so much insight from our mother’s everyday life stories about raising us, volunteering in her church and neighborhood and maintaining our home. I will never forget these memories. Get a load of the postage: six cents to mail a letter priority air mail.

In one of her letters, my Mom mentioned how I always wanted to wear my big sister’s clothes!

It reminds me of the joke about the woman who came from a large family of five sisters and four brothers. One day she was looking through the family photo album when she noticed that in picture after picture, all of the children were dressed in matching outfits. Later, she asked her mother why everyone - even the baby - was dressed identically. Her mother replied: "When we had just four children, I dressed you alike so that we wouldn't lose any of you. Then when the other six came along, I started dressing you alike so that we wouldn't pick up any that didn't belong to us!"

I felt blessed to be with my family when we got the text from my nephew, Buddy, that he was coming home. A Marine, Buddy completed his work in Iraq and Afghanistan and the “welcoming home” committee had only one day to arrange festivities. About 35 Viet Nam Veterans on motorcycles met Buddy at the airport along with well wishers waving flags and transporting him and his parents, my younger brother and his wife, to their home via limousine.

I’m so glad to have these memories now that I’m back at home in Arizona with my husband. Like my mother, my simple everyday life is filled with work, my church, treasured friendships and precious children. And blogger friends! It’s good to be home!

Homeward Bound

2011-06-20T20:18:00.004-07:00

To us, family means putting your arms around each other and being there.

~Barbara Bush

One more day to go and I will be flying to Chicago for a few weeks. It’s my Mom’s 96th birthday next week; she has no idea I’m coming! I look forward to spending lots of time with my family. I will be offline for a while and hope to get caught up with everybody when I return.

Remembering My Dad

2011-06-17T17:21:00.005-07:00

This photo of my Dad and me was taken at a wedding when I was about five. I wonder why I look so scared. Maybe I was just pooped from dancing too many polkas with him. Maybe the photographer frightened me because I hadn't yet learned to be courageous and smile at him. One think I know for sure is that I've grown in understanding through the years. I use to think the legacy that my Dad left us was his kindness and enjoyment of everyday simple living. It goes deeper than that for sure. My Dad's legacy is that he was a father who loved God and reverenced Him. Dad was never ashamed of his faith or prayer life. A quiet man, he never retaliated when he was offended. He wasn't big on words, but he modeled how to live in peace. I'm remembering my Dad this Father's Day and thanking God for his example.

My pastor shared some awesome statistics last week in Part One of his Father's Day Message. Ninety three percent of the family comes to Christ when father gets saved! It is 35% for mother and 3% for the child. Praise God for fathers who love Christ and serve Him first.

This post connects to Spiritual Sundays. Click here!

How to Know If You're From Chicago

2011-06-16T11:46:00.006-07:00

You Might Be From Chicago If:

The 'living room' is called the 'front room'.
You don't pronounce the 's' at the end of Illinois and you become irate at people who do.

You measure distance in minutes (especially 'from the city') and you swear everything is pretty much 1/2 hour away.

You go to visit friends, or family, down south and laugh when they complain about the traffic.
You understand that no person from Chicago can be a Cub fan AND a White Sox fan.
It's 'Kitty corner' not 'Katty corner'.
You know the difference between The Loop and Downtown
Stores don't have sacks, they have bags.

You end your sentences with an unnecessary preposition. Example:
'Where's my coat at?' or can I go with?'
(My English teacher had fits with this one.)

You drink 'pop', not soda.
You call the interstates 'expressways'.
You refer to Lake Michigan as 'The Lake '
You refer to Chicago as 'The City'.
You have two favorite football teams: The Bears, and anyone who beats the Packers.
You buy the 'Trib', not the 'Tribune' or the 'Times', not the 'Sun Times'.
You know that despite being on the lake, there is no such place as the Waterfront.
You think 45 degrees is great weather to wash your car.
You picnic or ride your bike in the 'forest preserve'.
You know what goes on a Chicago style hot dog.
You know what Chicago Style Pizza REALLY is.
You know why they call Chicago 'The Windy City".
You understand what 'lake-effect' means.
You know the difference between Amtrak and Metra, and know which station they end up at.
You have ridden the 'L'.
You think your next door neighbor is a cousin to Tony Soprano.

You have, at some time in your life, used your furniture...or a friend's body, to guard your parking spot in winter.

You respond to the question 'Where are you from?' with a 'side'. Example: 'Westside,' 'Southside or 'North Side.

You know what a 'garache key' is!
And my favorite: You eat your pizza in squares, not triangles, and you never refer to it as 'pie'.

I’m looking forward to reuniting with my family in Chicago next week. I miss all of them so much. My friend, Bev, emailed these. They are funny…and true! Anybody from Chicago out there and can relate?

Trailers R Not Us!

2011-06-13T17:53:00.012-07:00

It irks me when people refer to the homes that we sell as “trailers.” How insulting to refer to our beautiful upper-end manufactured homes as trailers. These homes are popular in the southwest. The brand I sell is loaded with insulation and amenities and when the contractors get finished with them, they look good. Here’s one of our customers who lives in Sedona.

Currently, we are featuring the 2011 homes. Our interior decorator spent a day sprucing up our lot models last week and I followed her around with my camera. She comes up with some great ideas. Here is a cute kitchen in our smallest home.

My favorite is this middle-size three bedroom home decorated in a Mexican theme. I love the openness of this floor plan. Oh, to sit at this table and serve up some burritos and refried beans!

This four-bedroom home has warm accent walls. I fight the temptation to take a nap in this comfy bed mid-day!

So remember, they are “manufactured homes” not mobiles and certainly not trailers!

Let Me Get That Door For You

2011-06-11T09:50:00.004-07:00

"To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open." Rev 3:8

When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust Him fully. Let Go. One of two things will happen, either He’ll catch you when you fall, or He’ll teach you how to fly! Only God can shift things around for us and cause things to work in our favor.

My prayer partner sent this to me today and I had to share it. It is a confirmation also from a co-worker who quoted the same thing to me two weeks ago! God is telling me that He will get those doors for me and I don’t have push them to open or close.

This post links to Spiritual Sundays. Click here.

The Fireproof Bible

2011-06-04T08:42:00.006-07:00

What do you do when your world is so black that everything around you seems hopeless? I heard a good message on Alive in Christ Radio this week about this very thing. Deborah Lovett was featured and her topic was ”Breaking the Bondage of Despair. “ She told of the devastation of watching the home that she personally designed burn up in flames and with it everything she cherished. Imagine how it feels to lose family heirlooms, personal possessions and irreplaceable homemade items the children created through the years.

Deborah shared her spiritual journey of how she overcame this time with God’s comfort and His Word. She told of returning to the smoldering hot ashes days after the fire and retrieving her Bible which miraculously remained intact! The crux of her message was that when we find ourselves in oppression, there is help for us. Her advice was right on: “your attitude means everything.” If we want to win a victory when everything around us is falling apart, we must choose on purpose how we will respond. Lovett knows first-hand that God’s Word, prayer and praise defeats the enemy when he tries to keep us down. Her suggestion is to find one verse in the Word that is personal and cling to it with all your might!

Then she said something very profound. Finding her Bible so miraculously preserved amidst the fiery flames was a picture of the church today! It’s true. Many are hurting deeply right now. God has victory in store for us. It is His Word that will comfort, direct and help us in the fire!

Do you have that one promise you are clinging to? I have mine:

Isa 49:25 says:
But this is what the LORD says: “Yes, captives will be taken from warriors, and plunder retrieved from the fierce; I will contend with those who contend with you, and your children I will save.

I’m so glad I caught this interview; it encouraged me. I hope these words inspire and support you if you are hurting. This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays hosted by Charlotte and Ginger. Click here.

Rosy Wednesday

2011-06-01T08:56:00.005-07:00

It’s not that everything is coming up roses, but I have seen the favor of God this past week. I use to believe in coincidence, until I met Jesus. Now for sure I know that every morning when I meet Him for coffee, prayer and the Word, my day will be sprinkled with reminders that He’s close, He’s helping me and He loves me! Here is a recap of the favor of God that I've been seeing this week:

I’m part of a praying army for a friend’s co-workers. They gathered together at a memorial service last weekend and the message was so anointed that a dozen of them gave their lives to the Lord.

The dentist made my husband a wonderful (expensive) partial but he hates to wear it. He misplaces it because he removes it so much. At work the other day, he lost it just before he was scheduled to give a presentation. He frantically drove all the way home to look for it. I stayed in the office and prayed and felt lead to trace his steps in the parking lot. I found it intact amidst all the tiny gravel!

The clerk in the mall beauty salon did not carry the hair product I asked about but she had a discounted similar item and decided to let me have it for free!

Same thing at Lowe’s, we needed trim board to fix our house and they cut it and discounted it 74 percent for us. Amazing how the little things mean so much.

Here’s the kicker. A praying friend of mine was advised that if she did not increase in sales, her job was in jeopardy. She asked God to help her and send buyers to her. In one month, she doubled her expected quota.

In Hebrew there is no such word for coincidence. There is a term that is tossed around, “mikreh”, which means divine happenstance and that would be the closest call to coincidence. The formal translation is "Karah m’Hashem" and that means it happened from God. It means that absolutely nothing that occurs happens without His hand in it, even the most insignificant things.

No, I don’t believe in coincidence anymore. Everything is not coming up roses, but the Lord is with me.

Recognition Relapse

2011-05-27T14:44:00.005-07:00

Patriotism is not something everybody understands. I can remember when I didn’t. It was many years ago that I sat in a weekday Women’s Bible Study and an older woman, Ruth, made a comment that I never forgot. Ruth interjected how sad she felt that the younger generation didn’t grasp the price that was paid for our freedom in this great country where we live. I was taken aback when our leader and pastor’s wife, only 25 then, humbly admitted that she did, in fact, take a lot of our freedom for granted not realizing the price that was paid. I was only a few years older than her, but I found myself internalizing the conversation. I remember thinking why is such a big deal being made of this?

Today I get it. America is not the same. The Constitution is compromised and no longer is the politician a role model like in the past. Fighting to restore America has become a passionate cause for many of us. I appreciate the men and women who serve our country. Our country and its citizens need God more than ever.

I attend a great church with leadership that is young and vibrant. They’re humble men and women of integrity. Unfortunately though, when we attend church services on some federal holidays, I leave the service disappointed that the military is not honored and recognized. I’ve been in church services elsewhere where military and vets were asked to stand and it gave me the opportunity to honor and clap for them. This may be a small thing, but for me and I bet for some of the other women my age married to men who fought in war, it would mean a great deal to see them recognized. We know firsthand how the battle has affected them over the years.

Today, like Ruth, I am the older woman in Christian Bible studies. Perhaps it’s my turn to step up express my opinion about Patriotism.

This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays. Click here. A special thank you to the military as well as those who have served our country. May God bless you and your families.

IOWT ~ David Wilkerson Quote

2011-05-23T21:10:00.007-07:00

My pastor warned those of us who are left-brained that our reasoning gets in the way of extravagantly trusting the Lord.

The darkness Wilkerson speaks of in his quote fills me with a myriad of scary emotions: weeping, anger, fear, and stress; none of which I am eager to embrace. If I can think of a way not to go there, I will. Nonetheless, I have purposed to set my mind on my journey of faith despite the lonely, dark times.

Psalm 84: 6 and 7 reminds me that when I walk through this Valley of Bacca (or weeping), I will become a place of refreshing! Imagine that. The autumn rains will clothe me with blessings and I will continue to grow stronger. So God promises not only to get me through it, He promises to strengthen me in it and then use me to help others so He can be glorified. Admit it; this is good news.

Be encouraged if you, like me, are in a dark place right now. Someday we will understand, but today let’s trust God extravagantly. Forget figuring it all out. He is faithful to bring us through. Together, we’ll be stronger for it.

This post is linked to "In Other Words Tuesday" hosted today by Debbie at Heart Choices.

Knowledge Talks, Wisdom Listens

2011-05-21T10:31:00.005-07:00

Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're down. Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody. Romans 12:15

My precious little friend is 30, a single mom and she owns a business. We chatted the other day about business and the hard trial she is experiencing. Her mom lives five hours away and I can tell she longs for her mother’s company right now. She’s scared.

My own daughter lives 8 hours away and we know the challenge of communicating long distance. We know, too, that when life gets hard, fear likes to torment us and tell us we are doomed. My daughter told me that it means the world to her when I can just listen and be a sounding board. I’ve not got this one down pat yet :) I want to help, to solve and to inspire and share the wisdom I’ve gained over the past years…’cause I’m the mom.

It was the Lord who helped me the other day to listen as my friend shared all that she’s contemplating. I said nothing. She knew my heart was hearing! She talked a while and then she told me how her mom thought she should handle the situation. She said: “I’m not ready to make a decision yet. Mom’s advice would only be my last choice.” I wish she was here to face this with me.

My friend is perfectly capable of making a decison....she just needs another body beside her right now. I finally understood what my daughter has been trying to say to me. I realize now that as a mom, my presence is enough. Oh, to be so wise to know when to speak, when to just listen and when just to hold your child in your arms. I don’t think this is something any of us get right all the time. I sure don’t.

Oh, by the way, my young friend called me last night. Her mother surprised her and drove up for a three-day visit. She thanked me like I made it happen. “Oh, no, honey!” I said. It was Jesus and He loves you more than you know.

This post connects to Spiritual Sundays, hosted by Ginger and Charlotte. Click here.

Thankful Thursday

2011-05-19T10:44:00.005-07:00

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Ps. 107:1

I am giving thanks to the Lord today; He has poured out blessings on me in so many ways:

I am thankful for a husband who likes to cook! Speaking of my husband, we finally got test results back from the hospital where he had an MRI, Catscan and echo cardio. He has had a mean cough since last summer, lost his taste buds and lost a lot of weight. Tests reveal Chronic Sinusitis. The new meds are helping!

My daughter, who I call Strength & Joy, visited me with her daughter this past Mother's Day and spent the whole week. We had so much fun clipping coupons together and then shopping with them, going out to lunch and taking the little one to the library's reading program.

What a joy to hear the sounds of my happy little granddaughter's voice all week. We sat out on the deck together reading storybooks, went to the playground, had tea parties when she woke from naps, and watched DVD's together. She introduced me to Max & Ruby, a wonderful cartoon for toddlers, by the way.

Have you played with Playdough recently? It's fun.

I returned her DVD's to the library and noticed a huge half-price sale. I leafed through the books looking for some deals so I could send one to my 96-year old mother who devours a good book in hours. I didn't recognize any authors until I prayed and then finally I found a few noteworthy Christian Fiction books I could send her featuring a loving gospel message. I'm thankful!

I'm thankful for answers to prayer for my co-worker and friend, Kay. She's felt like a zombie, unable to function, so we prayed. One day, she failed to take her medicine and woke up feeling sharp in her mind. The Lord showed her it was meds disagreeing with her system.

I'll end with thankfulness for being able to spend a few hours with my neighbor who is suffering from depression. When I got up to leave, I gave her some Joyce Meyer teachings and she was thankful! Thankfulness is catchy. I bet you are thankful, too, my precious blog buddies.

This post is linked to Thankful Thursdays hosted by Laurie, Women Taking a Stand.

Friday Funnies ~ Italian Technology

2011-05-13T11:57:00.005-07:00

Today for Friday Funnies, I'm featuring "Italian Technology" sent to me by my Italian brother-in-law, Edwardo. Be sure to visit Kim, too, at Homesteader's Heart. Have a great Friday!

ITALIAN TECHNOLOGY

After having dug to a depth of 10 feet last year, British scientists found traces of copper wire dating back 200 years. They came to the conclusion that their ancestors already had a telephone network more than 150 years ago.

Not to be outdone by the Brits, in the weeks that followed an American archaeologist dug to a depth of 20 feet. A story was subsequently published in the New York Times: "American archaeologists, finding traces of copper wire 250 years old, have concluded that their ancestors already had an advanced high-tech communications network - 50 years earlier than the British."
One week later, the La Stampa, an Italian Newspaper in Turin, Italy, reported:
"After digging as deep as 30 feet in his backyard in Giuseppe Gioconni, a self-taught archaeologist, reported that he found absolutely nothing. Gioconni has concluded that 250 years ago, Italy had already gone wireless." Makes you truly proud to be Italian!

A Mother's Blessings

2011-05-07T11:59:00.007-07:00

Bless you, all you Moms, Grandmothers, Aunties and Stepmoms !

May God fill your day with lots of love! You are a blessing.

A daughter is a miracle that never ceases to be miraculous...full of beauty and forever beautiful...loving and caring and truly amazing.
-- Deanna Beisser

I and Blessed!
By Wilma Watson

I love you, my daughters, with all my heart
I've adored you all from the very start

I thank God for making you who you are
To me, you're just like shining stars

You give me encouragement and praise
I so appreciate your special ways

I love to talk with you and share
You show me that you really care

I'm so proud to call each my friend
On one another we can depend

With you in my life I am blessed
My daughters, you are the very best !

Find inspiration at Spiritual Sundays hosted by two special mothers, Charlotte and Ginger.

Click here.

Mother's Best Advice

2011-05-04T09:46:00.004-07:00

When I married her son, my Mother-in-law, Stella, gave me some advice. She divulged that I’m marrying into a family of strong women who like to take charge of everybody. The way she coped was by listening attentively and replying with a kind "thank you" and then when they left, she would do what she wanted. I have to admit that it works…especially with her son. Here is Stella on the far left with the strong women.

Here I am with Mom on my wedding day when she gave me the best advice. She told me to maintain proper priorities keeping God first and then my husband and then the kids. Great Biblical advice!

Think about the best advice your mother ever gave you. I’d love to hear it!

Pursuing Holiness

2011-04-30T10:42:00.005-07:00

"A true love of God must begin with a delight in his holiness, and not with a delight in any other attribute; for no other attribute is truly lovely without this.” Jonathan Edwards

Remember when Jesus was out at sea with his disciples and a big storm came? They woke Him up and asked for His help. He awoke and calmed that horrendous storm. I want to focus on their reaction. Scripture tells us that after Jesus spoke to the raging waters, all became still again. But His disciples were terrified. Why is that? Because they were in the presence of the very holy One and isn’t it true that when we are in that presence we see ourselves for what we really are: afraid, sinful and doubting.

I’ve been reflecting on God’s holiness ever since I watched the 700 Club earlier in the week. A distraught mother called in and asked Pat Robertson what more she can do besides all her praying and fasting to hasten the return of her prodigal son. I felt that his reply was for me as well: “Instead of focusing on your son’s sins, focus on God’s holiness. Ask for God’s forgiveness for this son’s attitudes and offenses against such a holy God.”

I realize that we can’t repent for another person. However, our intercession takes on a whole new dimension when we take the approach of coming into the presence of a Holy God instead of dwelling on all the sinful rebellion we are seeing and continually telling God about it.
I am called to be holy. Peter says so in 1 Peter 1:15-16. “But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.’ So how do I do this? By separating myself from the things of this world and dedicating myself to God.

I will never stop interceding for my prodigal and knowing I will become holy in the process is a win-win situation.

Spiritual Sundays is hosted by Charlotte and Ginger at http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com

A Royal Anniversary

2011-04-28T11:31:00.011-07:00

The famous date of April 29th will lock in Will & Kate’s marriage vows tomorrow. We share this special date with them in our family!

On April 29, 1995, our daughter got married.

To my amazement, her girlfriends motivated all the ladies attending the wedding to wear hats, because that’s what the bride likes...hats. I will never forget walking down that aisle and seeing all the lovely spring hats! You would think it was England. Even I wore one.

Happy anniversary, Amy and Mark!

You will always be royalty to me.

Congratulations to Will and Kate.

Are you attending the royal wedding? Thanks to blogger friend, Beth Endean, I figured out my guest name: Lady Victoria Zipper Roy.

Here’s how you know your Royal Wedding guest name:
Start with either Lord or Lady.
Your first name is one of your grandparent’s name.
Your surname is the name of your first pet
Double barreled with the name of the street you grew up on!

What’s yours?

An Out-of-the-Ordinary Holiday

2011-04-26T07:16:00.009-07:00

Family faces are magic mirrors looking at people who belong to us, we see the past, present, and future.
-- Gail Lumet Buckley

After cooking a full Seder meal at Passover, I hung my apron up in the kitchen and packed for an unconventional Easter Weekend. Our road trip to California was filled with tons of songs on the IPOD, favorite coffee stops and beautiful spring weather and best of all, no cooking in the kitchen.

In San Diego, we stayed at The Lafayette Hotel and were we surprised that a Blues Festival was going on in town! We got back to the lobby on Friday night and the place was blaring with Johnny Mastro and the Poor Boys, one of my husband’s favorite bands.

The majority of our time was family togetherness. Families mirror each other and it fascinates me how we see ourselves in each other. Our emotions ran high with delight as we decorated eggs and hid them, played in the park, toured the old Point Loma Lighthouse, went to the zoo and Balboa Park, watched the live link of the Easter service at The Rock, ate out at our favorite restaurants, and enjoyed the ocean breezes on our faces. We created a wonderful Easter memory and a most unconventional one for me!

Break....or Breakthrough

2011-04-13T15:41:00.004-07:00

I plan to be offline for a blog break for a few weeks. We’re busy at my house preparing for our family’s Passover celebration. Next week we are taking some vacation days and going to San Diego to join the kids for the Easter holiday.

I’ve been waking up very early in the morning and while reading my Bible, I notice how cold the mornings have been. Just before dawn it seems coldest and darkest. Many of us are spiritually in that Middle Place. It seems so dark because our trials are wearying. Bright light is on the horizon. Let’s encourage one another because we know the miracle of Jesus’ resurrection and all of the hope it brings. Our miracles are coming; I believe it!

Happy Easter, my friends. May His joy fill us this season regardless of what we see in the natural. Praise Jesus, our savior!

He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13,14

Let My People Go!

2011-04-08T08:02:00.006-07:00

Yum, I’m thinking of that Seder main dish of roasted lamb with vegetables and rice as Passover draws closer! This past week my Bible study plan brought me to the early chapters of Exodus which relive the great deliverance of the children of Israel from oppressive Pharaoh in Egypt. So, of course, I’m excited as we anticipate a night of Jewish tradition in our family when we host our yearly celebration of Passover, remembering our deliverance. We love those Old Testament scriptures that point to Jesus, our great deliverer who set us free! My mind is swirling with menu plans. Then I got this bright idea of Seder humor! So here it is:

A little boy returned from Hebrew School and his father asked him, “what did you learn today?” The boy answered, “The Rabbi told us how Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt.” How? The boy said, “Moses was a big, strong man and he beat up Pharaoh. Then while he was down, he got all the people together and ran towards the sea. When he got there, he has the Corps of Engineers build a huge pontoon bridge. Once they got on the other side, they blew up the bridge while the Egyptians were trying to cross.” The father was shocked. “Is that what the Rabbi taught you?” The boy replied, “No. But you’d never believe the story he DID tell us!”

I think this one is cute, too: At our seder, we had whole wheat and bran matzoh, fortified with Metamucil. The brand name, of course, is "Let My People Go".

I’m linking this post to Friday Funnies and also Spiritual Sundays.

Spiritual Sundays ~ Those Resilient Grays!

2011-04-02T12:05:00.004-07:00

Gray Hair is a crown of splendor.

It is attained by a righteous life.

Prov. 16:31

I had a good laugh at McDonald's this morning. I had some paperwork to go over with my oldest daughter, Beloved, so we met there together to complete our task. As I sipped my McCafe, I watched her across the table scribble some notes. I had to tease her. "With all the money you spend coloring your hair and going several shades darker, those resistant gray strands are still popping up!" Her retort: "Well, Mom, thanks to you I inherited this problem!"

It's true. She can blame it on me. I cast the blame on my mom, too, because she grayed so early in life. I can always remember my mother in her sanguine ways making this her confession: "Gray hair does not grow on a dumb head!"

And my confession? Well, it's Isaiah 46:4!

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He,

I am He who will sustain you.

I have made you and I will carry you.

I will sustain you and I will rescue you.

Isa 46:4

Thank you, Charlotte and Ginger and all the friendly writers who make Spiritual Sundays such a wonderful place to hang out!

Friday Funnies!

2011-04-01T06:27:00.005-07:00

Happy Friday everybody! I'm linking up with Kim at Homesteader's Heart to add a little cheer to the world today. Here's my contribution:

A doctor was addressing a large audience in Oxford ...

"The material we put into our stomachs should have killed most of us sitting here, years ago. Red meat is full of steroids and dye. Soft drinks corrode your stomach lining. Chinese food is loaded with MSG. High transfat diets can be disastrous and none of us realizes the long-term harm caused by the germs in our drinking water. But, there is one thing that is the most dangerous of all and most of us have, or will eat it. Can anyone here tell me what food it is that causes the most grief and suffering for years after eating it?"

After several seconds of quiet, a 70-year-old man in the front row raised his hand, and softly said, "Wedding Cake."

Because He Lives, I Can Move

2011-03-26T11:19:00.006-07:00

I’m currently in one of those places where you lay out all the options and then you make the best decision. It seems, however, like none of the choices are fair or attractive. I know God will help me in my situation because I desire His guidance. I’m clinging to His Word which promises that ALL things work together for good for those that love God and are called according to His purpose, Romans 8:28.

I heard a great teaching this week about seeking God’s will and all the freedom that surrender brings. We can know that God is bringing about a victory if we trust Him with each and every decision. The speaker illustrated his point with a famous painting.

The painting depicts a look of despair on the chess player’s face. He’s playing Satan and his soul is at stake. It looks like Satan is winning. Checkmate! When Paul Morphy saw this painting back in the 1800’s, he set up a chess board and aligned the pieces to reflect the painting. Being a world champion, he studied the board. His conclusion was that this painting should not have been titled “Checkmate.” Morphy found a last move setting the man free!

I’m praising God for Jesus. He defeated Satan when He died on the cross. He is going to show me the winning move and deliver me from checkmate. The game is not over as Satan wants me to think.

Spiritual Sundays is a great place to be built up in the Word and praise. Many thanks to Charlotte and Ginger for hosting this meeting place of inspiration as well as fellowship.

Friday Funnies!

2011-03-25T05:13:00.008-07:00

This is how I felt this week! Not only has my laptop been challenging me, but my desktop at the office, too. So glad Friday is here. Let's smile together!

For more Friday Funnies, be sure to visit Kim at Homesteaders's Heart. Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

Under the Moon With Jesus

2011-03-19T08:19:00.004-07:00

The news was on TV when I woke up yesterday and the anchors were scaring people with reports of radiation expected to fall on the United States from Japan. My husband mentioned that he wished he owned a Geiger counter. But I was in my favorite spot reading my Bible while drinking that first cup of coffee and God gave me a word.

The 700 Club came on next and we watched their news report featuring Jim Berkland, a geologist who predicts that the next earthquake expected to hit southern California can possibly develop as soon as this weekend when the moon will be closest to the earth than it has been in the last 20 years. We have a daughter and granddaughter there along with another daughter who is visiting! Now my word from the Lord meant even more. Here it is:

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.
So we will not fear when earthquakes come and mountains crumble into the sea.
Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!
Psalm 46:1-3, The New Living Translation

God’s Word is timely on any day, especially when they are saying the mountains are going to fall. What thrills me is I wasn’t even looking for this word; God found me and encouraged me as I sought Him! That’s personal.

Spiritual Sundays is hosted by Ginger and Charlotte here. It is one of the best places to be inspired and meet wonderful friends.

Friday Funnies!

2011-03-18T05:33:00.005-07:00

I'm linking to Kim at Homesteader's Heart for Friday Funnies! Wishing you all a fun-filled weekend.

Truth in the Balance

2011-03-12T14:57:00.005-07:00

I was reading the gospel of Matthew yesterday and thinking about what a privilege it is to be a disciple of Jesus. I recalled my experience of about 20 years ago when I worked for a man who was a New Age baby boomer. He opened a restaurant in Sedona and hired the best chef, a great wait staff and me! I assisted in his office. The way he dealt with stress and business mishaps intrigued me. He would often advise: “Don’t worry, life is universally balanced. The largest galaxy to the smallest particle of matter is in harmony with the universe and totally balanced.”
Tell that to the people of Japan, or Haiti! I don’t know about you, but I need a savior when my world goes crazy. New Agers believe that God and nature are one because God cannot be separated from nature. To them it isn’t necessary to have a personal relationship with God because they believe we all are part of the universe and part of God.

So getting back to my study of Matthew 16, Jesus asked the disciples, “Who do you say I am?” Peter replied: "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God." I think right now we are in a good season of the Christian calendar to think about Jesus in these weeks before Easter and reflect on the truth of who He is.

I'm a follower of Jesus Christ, and I admit stressfull circumstances arise, and I feel overwhelmed at times. It's then that I remember His words: “In this world you will have tribulation. But be of good cheer. I have overcome the world.” No, I’m not one with the universe but I’m reliant on the one who created it. That is truth.

For more inspirational Spiritual Sundays, click here!

Friday Funnies!

2011-03-11T04:58:00.006-07:00

I'm joining Kim today and spreading some humor! Visit her at Homesteader's Heart for more funnies. Have a great weekend, everyone.

Upbeat Moments!

2011-03-09T13:08:00.011-07:00

I love upbeat moments and I cherish the pockets of joy that have sprinkled over my week. I'd like to share some with you. Winter is great in the high desert, but I have to admit it is exciting at this time of year when new growth starts to spurt.

My sweetheart gave me a new camera for Valentine's Day and I'm learning how to operate the features. If this post is a little picture-crazy, that's why. I'm camera happy! I gave my honey a "man cave" for Valentine's Day; here's the picture I took of it:

Our daughter dropped by the house the other day with cheesecake and fresh daisies. Her name means "beloved" and it fits her. I took a picture of her and her husband.

Our other daughter lives in San Diego. Her name means "strength" and "joy." It fits!

We received a bucketful of joy when my hubby's cousin, Wayne, visited last weekend. Hubby was an only child, so his cousin is like a brother. They were funny together.

Wayne brought an old photo album with him.

It was fun to look at ancient black and white

photos of the guys when they were little and

where dressed alike! My girls embraced

their second cousin.

We took Wayne to Jerome, AZ.

We had a fun lunch and talked and

talked!

Joy is such a wonderful thing to possess. No wonder the enemy tries to steal it from our souls. How do you choose joy, no matter what? Philippians answers that. Paul was not bound by his circumstances although he was in chains. His spirit was never chained. He rested in God and wrote a lot in prison all the while advancing the gospel. Likewise, our trials refine us and promote the gospel. I like Paul's perspective. I like the way he takes.

"But I want you to know, bretheren,

that the things which happened to me

have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel."

Phil 1:12

When we studied this in church last Sunday I did not know the warfare that would hit me this week. Today was especially rough, but I'm choosing joy in spite of my circumstances! I'm encouraged by the Word of God. It's the thing to do when we get in these hard places. Many are in rough places right now. Be encouraged.

Spiritual Sundays ~ The Talking Mug

2011-03-05T07:46:00.004-07:00

This is my new coffee cup. It talks to me every morning as I start my day. The scripture says: “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7. The script reads: Good morning, this is God! I will be handling all your problems today. I will not need your help—so have a good day. I love you!

The mug came with instructions. My girlfriend, Glenda, bought it for me at the Joyce Meyer Bookstore while we were at the conference together last weekend. She told me it’s a souvenir to remember all the fun we enjoyed in the Word together! I am to drink my coffee every morning dwelling on this 1 Peter verse and cast all my cares on Jesus who can handle all my problems. I think it is so cute and I’m thankful that she blessed me with it.

And then yesterday came. I got one of those blows from the enemy that knocks you down. Bad news. I just finished my coffee this morning and I’m sitting here remembering who’s I am and how much He cares for me. I'm encouraged.

Have a wonderful weekend, my friends. Remember, He cares for you!

Spiritual Sundays offers encouragement and inspiration. Log on here for more uplifting messages where Charlotte and Ginger host this wonderful Christian website.

Friday Funnies!

2011-03-04T04:51:00.005-07:00

Happy Friday, everyone! It's time to join Kim at Homesteader's Heart for some laughs as we enter into the weekend. Today I'm sharing an email that was sent to me yesterday. Hope it makes you smile. And always remember, take it with a grain of salt when your husband takes a phone message for you.

Joyce and the Girls!

2011-03-01T14:18:00.005-07:00

I love being with girlfriends. I’m still astounded by all the excitement of praising God with thousands of faith-filled believers at the Joyce Meyer Conference last weekend in Phoenix. Wow…all the great teaching…I’m laughing because I said that whatever the message topic would be, it would be handpicked for me. So what did God send me to hear? She spoke all weekend on Strife!

Just before I drove off, I read your comments to my last blog post and so appreciated your love and encouragement, my friends. Likewise, I would like to share my conference notes with you and hope you are blessed.

Notes from Joyce Meyer Conference Feb. 2011

Strife is an angry undercurrent while everyone thinks everything is just fine; it’s dangerous and it’s an evil spirit.

Choose upon awakening each day not to be touchy. Use God’s Word like a medicine and ask God for the grace to forgive and set myself free.

When I don’t get my way, have a good attitude. Say “I guess it’s good for me.” Don’t get mad at God. It is the enemy that is the source of the problem.

Peace does not just happen; we have to choose it.

Why do so many people choose anger and offense? Would they choose to receive a snake?

If the horse is dead, dismount.

I can get along with anybody; contention comes by pride.

Love gives up its right to be right.

Strife should be feared – it’s poison. There is power in agreement. Don’t give the enemy a foothold. It will turn into a stronghold.

Jealousy is caused by greed and strife.

God is always working even if my breakthrough seems long in coming. Keep serving Him!

Want the devil to leave you alone? Love! Increase in love!

Are you discontent? It’s because you’re not trusting God. Be content, even when you’re slandered. If I do what I can do, God will do what I can’t do.

What is so amazing about Joyce is that she demonstrates the Word as well as preaches it. My heart went out to her all weekend suffering with an abscess tooth and yet, she continued on. I woke up the morning of the last day with a migraine; it would have been so easy to stay under the blankets, but my girlfriends prayed and I went to the conference despite feeling fragile. There is such amazing power in God’s Word!

I hope you are as encouraged as I am. The Lord did amazing things not only on the stage, but in our hotel room, in the lines we stood in and our seats. It was the place to be to pray, fellowship and make new friends!

Girls Night Out

2011-02-23T15:36:00.005-07:00

Sisters function as safety nets in a chaotic world simply by being there for each other.
- Carol Saline

Getting a few days off combined with girlfriend fellowship is just the best! My suitcase is almost packed. I'm looking forward to tomorrow when I head out to Phoenix with the girls. Joyce Meyer is coming to town. You know what that means: a lot of hoopin and hollerin and a lot of Word! I can use some Godly encouragement. I wonder what Joyce will be speaking about in her conference this weekend. I hope it is about the Love Revolution. She's great at that. Whatever the topic, I'm all ears.

Wherefore I put thee in remembrance
that thou stir up the gift of God,
which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
2 Timothy 1:6

We're challenged in this verse to use the gifts given to us and be bold. In doing so, we inspire and encourage one another to keep on in our journey of faith and gain the victory! I'm sure there will be a lot of faith and inspiration this weekend both on the stage of the meetings and in our hotel rooms!

Some of my favorite Joyce quotes:

"Our joy does not have to be based on our circumstances."
— Joyce Meyer

"Have God make a message out of your mess."
— Joyce Meyer

"There are no drive-thru breakthroughs. Breakthroughs take time."
— Joyce Meyer

"Satan can control you if you let outward things determine your security."
— Joyce Meyer

Friday Funnies ~ Clotheslines

2011-02-18T05:36:00.004-07:00

I grew up in the era of clotheslines. As a little one, I would help my mom hang our washed clothes on the clothesline in our backyard and she connected two pieces of clothing with one clothespin to save room on the line. I was amazed how the clothes froze in the cold Chicago weather.

A CLOTHESLINE POEM

A clothesline was a news forecast
To neighbors passing by,
There were no secrets you could keep
When clothes were hung to dry.

It also was a friendly link
For neighbors always knew,
If company had stopped on by
To spend a night or two.

For then you'd see the "fancy sheets"
And towels upon the line;
You'd see the "company table cloths"
With intricate designs.

The line announced a baby's birth
From folks who lived inside -
As brand new infant clothes were hung,
So carefully with pride!

The ages of the children could
So readily be known
By watching how the sizes changed,
You'd know how much they'd grown!

It also told when illness struck,
As extra sheets were hung;
Then nightclothes, and a bathrobe, too,
Haphazardly were strung.

It also said, "Gone on vacation now"
When lines hung limp and bare.
It told, "We're back!" when full lines sagged,
With not an inch to spare!

New folks in town were scorned upon
If wash was dingy and gray,
As neighbors carefully raised their brows,
And looked the other way.

But clotheslines now are of the past,
For dryers make work much less.
Now what goes on inside a home
Is anybody's guess!

I really miss that way of life. It was a friendly sign.
When neighbors knew each other best by what hung on the line.

Have a wonderful Friday everyone. Be sure to smile today! For more funnies, drop by and visit Kim at Homesteader's Heart.

Love Like a Valentine

2011-02-12T09:32:00.010-07:00

I found this love letter on Bren's Blog a while back and I had to have it. I emailed it to my friends and my family. They were as impressed with it as I was. I guess a lot of us are determined to love others more deeply in the coming year. One gal, a teacher, wrote me that she is placing this on her desk to help her understand her students and to work on her own self. Another, a counselor, wrote me that she is reading it often to love her clients with the love of Jesus. Another girl is a manager and used it in her staff meeting with copies for everyone. My daughter put hers on Facebook.

For more wonderful expressions of the love of Jesus, be sure to drop by Spiritual Sundays, hosted by Ginger and Charlotte. I wish you all a very Happy Valentine's Day.

Friday Snow Funnies!

2011-02-11T04:58:00.007-07:00

Blogger friends have been writing about all the snow that fell this past week, like the ones that said they have two feet of snow. Wonder what that looks like.

Have a great Friday, my friends. May your day be filled with lots of chuckles that lift your spirits. A good way to do that is by visiting Kim at Homesteader's Heart.

Random Smiles!

2011-02-08T14:16:00.005-07:00

I’m taking a few minutes to pause and share some random smiles with you today!

During my lunch hour, I picked up my photos at CVS. When I got back to my office, I viewed them and decided to slip the ones of my daughter and son-in-law into their “already sealed” and stamped Valentine card. I chuckled to myself as I steamed open the envelope so I can enclose the photos before mailing. The back of their Hallmark envelope looks like my Great Dane chewed it for lunch. The Hallmark advertising jingle kept ringing in my ears…when you care to send the very best…

Speaking of my daughter, she told her Dad about her drive to work a few days ago. She is a “led-foot” and a bird flew in front of her vehicle flying from right to left. But she didn’t slow down. A few blocks down, the same thing happened but this bird flew from left to right, the opposite. She paused and thought “what’s this all about?” and realized she was going too fast. She slowed down and one block later saw a parked police car waiting to nab a speeder. Hubby told me this when I was at the wheel and, apparently, driving too fast. What can I say…”like mother, like daughter.”

Speaking of mothers and daughters….I found a cute pair of Capri’s in my closet that I hardly wore because they are too small. But they looked fabulous on my daughter when she visited from California last month. So get this…I gave my “Not My Daughter’s Jeans” to my daughter!

I’m not the best multi-tasker. I got some practice at the grocery store last week, though. So there I was waiting in the checkout line with my stash of coupons, store discount card and debit card and I pile my weekly groceries on the belt noticing the mom in front of me who is a confident, no-nonsense coupon clipper moving quickly with about 20 each of a hundred items. Just about this time, the woman in front of her happens to be a girlfriend I haven’t seen in years, Maureen. She notices me and screams and passes back her brag book to me so I can see her brand new granddaughter! It all worked out okay, I guess. The gal in front of me saved $93 on her groceries. I was impressed. It’s the rage now and I have to be current with the times! My experience turned out pretty good. I saved $15. But you should have seen Maureen's little baby’s 50 pictures or so, very cute! It all got done (at once!) Life is fun. You’ve got to roll with the punches.

“Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams.”
Ashley Smith

Friday Funnies ~ The Disney Women

2011-02-04T05:45:00.003-07:00

This week has been unusual weatherwise when that big storm swept over our country! My heart goes out to those battling with snowy driving conditions and all that ice. Although I live in a high desert terrain, it got down to 8 degrees two nights ago and everybody's pipes froze. I forgot what it is like to be outside during the day and feel tears slide down my face because it's so cold. Last night, we lost power for over two hours.

Time to laugh as we enter into the weekend! Friday Funnies is hosted by Kim at Homesteader's Heart. Stay warm!

Piles of Roses!

2011-02-01T14:31:00.004-07:00

“A diplomat is a man who always remembers a woman’s birthday but never remembers her age.” Robert Frost

I enjoyed a wonderful birthday yesterday. Thank you for all the kind words you spoke over me and the love you sent me in the Spirit.

Get a load of these flowers! I was overjoyed when Fed Ex delivered 18 long-stemmed roses to my office. My boss sent them. I just cannot out give this generous southern gent. Now you know why I was so determined over the holidays finding just the right recipe to make him a homemade sweet potato pie, his favorite. He liked it, by the way! You guys helped me; the least I can do is share the flowers! I did, however, eat the enclosed box of Lady Godiva chocolates myself.

I’ve been so busy and haven’t visited as much online as I like to do. Please know I hold you and your prayer requests close to my heart.

Spiritual Sundays ~ Sunday Seven

2011-01-29T13:28:00.008-07:00

1. I’m praising God for answered prayer. I asked Him to send our office a buyer so that we can start the year off with a sale. We have four sales!

2. When I was in San Diego two weeks ago, my 95-year-old mother called us with stomach pain and thought she would have to go to the hospital. We prayed and the Lord healed her. We praise Him!

3. I’m praising God for the extra time I’ve had to be with my daughter and granddaughter. We have enjoyed a long visit since the holidays and they just left for home a few days ago.

4. I’m grateful for God’s protection. He kept us safe as we made the trip to San Diego and then back to Arizona as well as their final trip home again.

5. Laughter is medicine for the soul. I laugh at myself when I think of all the silly songs I’ve been singing with my granddaughter that I re-learned at her library story time. And the Hokey-Pokey…I’m getting good at it.

6. Praise God for encouraging us with all we learn about Him in trials. I was able to encourage a client this week whose house burned down. What a great feeling to know His strength uplifted her through our conversation about the hard times. This is just as important as selling her a home, don't you think?

7. Lastly, I’m praising God for the wonderful family He gave to me. Last weekend we were all together at my house. They got a cake from the bakery, purchased a helium machine and filled the house with balloons. My birthday is Monday the 31st! I am blessed.

Praise the Lord for all of you, my friends, and your Jesus-filled blogs that I love to visit. We are blessed to have such an inspiring place as Spiritual Sundays, hosted by Charlotte and Ginger.

For the Grandfather!

2011-01-28T05:12:00.004-07:00

Be sure to drop by Kim's at Homesteader's Heart for more Friday Funnies! Thanks for making the world laugh, Kim! Wishing all of you a happy weekend.

2011-01-21T12:20:00.003-07:00

WHY MEN ARE NEVER DEPRESSED:

Men Are Just Happier People-- What do you expect from such simple creatures?

Your last name stays put.. The garage is all yours. Wedding plans take care of themselves. Chocolate is just another snack. You can be President. You can never be pregnant. You can wear a white T-shirt to a water park. You can wear NO shirt to a water park. Car mechanics tell you the truth. You never have to drive to another gas station restroom because this one is just too icky. You don't have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt. Same work, more pay. Wrinkles add character. Wedding dress $5000; Tux rental-$100. People never stare at your chest when you're talking to them. New shoes don't cut, blister, or mangle your feet. One mood all the time.

Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat. You know stuff about tanks. A five-day vacation requires only one suitcase. You can open all your own jars. You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness. If someone forgets to invite you, he or she can still be your friend.
Your underwear is $8.95 for a three-pack. Three pairs of shoes are more than enough. You almost never have strap problems in public. You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes. Everything on your face stays its original color. The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades. You only have to shave your face and neck.

You can play with toys all your life. One wallet and one pair of shoes -- one color for all seasons. You can wear shorts no matter how your legs look. You can 'do' your nails with a pocket knife. You have freedom of choice concerning growing a mustache.

You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives on December 24 in 25 minutes.

No wonder men are happier!

Kim at Homesteader's Heart is the host of Friday Funnies!