Morning Mist & Scattered Clouds

"Black Friday" Thought

2011-11-25T12:45:00.000-05:00

If Christmas is to celebrate

Jesus' birthday,

why is it

we buy gifts for everyone,

BUT HIM.

I have to confess I am the "chief of sinners" when it comes to this.

I am a slow learner....this just dawned on me last year.

So, hopefully ~ I can reevaluate my perspective.

212 years ago......

2011-11-22T20:05:00.000-05:00

THANKSGIVING DAY 1789
BY THE

PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

GEORGE WASHINGTON

A PROCLAMATION

Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of almighty God,

to obey His will,

to be grateful for His benefits,

and humbly to implore His protection and favor -

and Whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me

"to recommend to the People of the United States

a day of

public thanksgiving

and prayer

to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts

the many signal favors of Almighty God,

especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness."
Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States

to the service of that great and glorious Being,

who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be –

That we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks –

for His kind care and protection of the People of this country

previous to their becoming a Nation –

for the signal and manifold mercies,

and the favorable interpositions of His providence, which we experienced in the course and conclusion of the late war –for the great degree of tranquillity, union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed – for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted, for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and in general for all the great and various favors which He hath been pleased to confer upon us.
And also that we may then unite

in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions –

to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually – to render our national government a blessing to all the People, by constantly being a government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed – to protect and guide all Sovereigns and Nations (especially such as have shewn kindness unto us) and to bless them with good government, peace, and concord – To promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and Us – and generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.
Given under my hand at the City of New York the third day of October in the year of our Lord 1789.

Heavenly Father,

212 years later,

in Your great and tender mercy

under humble praise and glory

to the only One worthy...

may the above be so; yes, may it be so.

In Jesus' matchless name I pray. Amen and Amen

LINGER LooooooooooooNG!

2011-11-14T10:38:00.000-05:00

As we begin the season of hustle-bustle and hurry-scurry, I have another guest post that very eloquently points us to what is important. A much needed reminder beautifully written by an extraordinary and beautiful (inside and out) young woman, Anne Marie. She is a friend of my daughter's who is graciously and generously living her life loving and learning how to linger in East Asia. Her wisdom at such a tender age is inspiring:

lingering

According to Miriam Webster, this is what it means to linger:
   1. To be slow in parting or in quitting something
       2. a: to remain alive although gradually dying
           b: to remain existent although often waning in strength
       3. To be slow to act
       4. To move slowly

I want to be a person who lingers.

I want to linger over a hot cup of coffee before the noise of the day begins, instead of immediately feeling the need to check email.

I want to linger in the embrace of my husband's spontaneous hug at the kitchen sink instead of nudging him away so I can wash the next dish.

I want to linger in meditation on God's word instead of being satisfied to just check it off my list for the day.

I want to linger at bath time with Maddox and not care about what time it is or how much water is being splashed on the floor.

I want to linger in silence with a friend instead of feeling the need to interject with some answer or piece of advice that, let's be honest, probably isn't that great anyway.

I want to linger in my weakness.

I want to linger in the hard lesson God is teaching me instead of just wishing for the end result.

I know I'm gonna wake up one day when Maddox is grown and wish that I could do bath time with him again or sing him to sleep, so why do I try and rush through those things now? Why do I feel like I have to live life in a hurry from one thing to the next. I really have absolutely nothing to be in a hurry for.

If every moment is beautifully ordained by God, which I whole-heartedly believe is true, then why wouldn't we want to linger in them? And if we never linger, doesn't that mean we are missing out on what that specific moment has to offer? And if we keep missing the gifts that come in the moments, then aren't we missing out on the fullness of life that God intended for us?

I want so badly to go slow and savor minutes, hours, days, and the season God has me in. I want to let my child stay in the bath too long just because he loves it. I want to experience the slow and sometimes agonizing process of refinement that comes with learning the hard lesson, because that's how God shapes us and changes hearts. I want to know the extent of my weaknesses so I can better understand the extent of God's strength and grace - if I never linger in my weakness I will never have to depend on the Lord. I want to sit in the tough emotions, because there's a time for every one of them under Heaven. I want to hug Chris for a long time because I have no idea what tomorrow holds and if there will even be another hug.

Lord, teach me how to linger.

Thanks, Anne Marie ~ for such a good word. May we truly linnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnger according to God's economy and not our own....especially at this upcoming, hectic season.

A Post that Never LEAVES Me....

2011-10-21T21:02:00.000-04:00

I've been busy and out-of-town, but I wanted to pop in and breathe some life into "MM & SC."

So, how 'bout a breath of fresh autumnal air from a young talented woman.

This is a guest post from Laura, a friend of my daughters ~ she's darlin,' beautiful inside and out, as well as a gifted writer.

I read this post exactly a year ago. It is one of those that resonates to the depths of your souls and continues to reverberate with echoes of the words, the message, and the heart coming to mind every so often.

Enjoy!

Thursday, October 21, 2010

blanks walls and leaves on the ground

I love writing letters on leaves. Every year around this time, I used pick a lovely fall leaf, and write a note on it. Being a lover of mail and the written word, it just seemed like fun. In the fall, one of my dear friends from childhood would always open an envelope to find a colorful leaf with sharpie scribbles on it. I'm not sure exactly why I did it, but I knew this long-time friend would understand.

The funny thing about my love for fall leaves is the irony in it. I hate change. I cry almost every time I cut my hair. My clothes tear to shreds or go out of style before I quit wearing them - note, I still own and wear a pair of pants from the seventh grade at 23 - I own 3 colors of nail polish: hot pinky - orange, nude/lightish pink and clear. Why? Because I fake the change - I rotate 3 shades in and out so it "looks" like I change. I have the same car I drove at fifteen and sincerely don't want a knew one. And in my old house, the wall over my bed stayed blank for two years because I was looking for the perfect thing to hang over it and if I drilled holes in the wall, I couldn't change it if I didn't like it.

I have a new blank wall. Come see. Help me drill holes. And best example of all? I cannot let go of people. Memories. Change. I am the roots, not the leaves.

You may think I'm crazy, and, yes, my hatred is a bit extreme, but who really loves change - transience - temporary?

The leaves that I wrote letters on, that crunch under your feet as you walk to work, that act as decor on your mantles, that make for hours of fun when in piles - those leaves are proof that we can't escape change, but that it can still be a beautiful thing. Has death ever looked so lovely? Change is part of this world, and the desire for something eternal is just another reason to believe we weren't made for this.

Pictures from Morgue File (not original to Laura's post)

SHINE ON.....

2011-09-12T09:20:00.000-04:00

...... Shine on harvest moon ~ up in the sky.

Tonite will be a full moon ~ the harvest moon (the best known of all the moons).

It is the moon of song, poetry, and folklore. The herald of autumn and ripening fields.
Before farmers had mechanical pickers and electric lights, they relied on the light of the harvest moon t bring in their crops. Back then, most of the harvesting was done by hand. With everything ripening at nearly the same time, there was too much work to be done in the fields to stop at sundown. A bright full moon allowed farmers to work long into the night to reap the crops at peak harvest time. Many farmers said the moonlight gave them the equivalents of an extra day or two. (Charles Seabrook, Wild Georgia)

In East Asia, where my daughter is studying, it is a big deal. There, the harvest moon is celebrated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. Traditionally on this day, family members and friends will gather to admire the bright moon and eat moon cakes under the moon together. Some other traditions include carrying brightly lit lanterns and collecting dandelion leaves and distributing them evenly among family member.

"When the moon is full, mankind is one!" ~ Chinese proverb

When you look up at the full moon tonite (and any other full moon nite), pray for the world that God so loves ~ that "one mankind" ~ that they would KNOW the ONE TRUE GOD ~ the Creator, the Glory, the BRIGHT and redeeming LIGHT.

For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. II Corinthians 4:6

For us who have already had the immense and amazing privilege and honor of having His light shine in our hearts......SHINE for the harvest. Pray for the harvest. Pray for the laborers of the harvest...for the harvest is great, and the laborers are few.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a HARVEST if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

SHINE ON....for the harvest!!!

Perfect Equation

2011-09-03T08:33:00.000-04:00


Illustration by Katherine Brown (circa 1982)

God is sovereign.

God is good.

Sovereign + good = Rest

No need to strive.

No need to worry.

Rest.

Rest in His goodness.

Rest in His sovereignty.

Ahhhhhhh.....

This is in conjunction with: "Five Minute Friday"

Older

2011-08-27T10:14:00.000-04:00

I wasn't going to do "Five Minute Friday" (writing freely without worrying about editing or perfection for five minutes) this week ~ wasn't in the mood.

I saw the word for the week, and decided to go for it. Why?

Because, I had my birthday this week, and as we mark time here on earth, I am now officially a year OLDER.

I'm on the down-hill slope of life here on earth now.

I regret the time and years I've squandered, but rest that there is no condemnation in Christ Jesus, and that He will restore the years the locust has eaten. Hallelujah!

I like being older (the alternative would mean I am not here), and I want to be here for my children. Lord willing, I will continue getting older.

And while I am getting older, may I be getting WISER ~ in order to bear fruit and glorify Him.

THE HELP

2011-08-22T10:02:00.000-04:00

My HELP comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:2

Surely God is my HELP; the Lord is the ONE who sustains me. Psalm 54:4

For I AM the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, "Do not fear; I will HELP you." Isaiah 41:13

God is our refuge and strength, and ever-present HELP in time of trouble. Psalm 46:1

Let us them approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to HELP us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16

Pieces of the WHOLE

2011-08-08T15:07:00.000-04:00

I enjoy doing jigsaw puzzles.

I believe it started later in my life when in the summers I would visit my then retired Grandmother (she retired in her early 80's and lived to be 103), and she always had a puzzle going. We would sit for hour after hour, day after day, side by side.

We would share a laugh, share a moment, and share the luxury and peace of being together.

My daughter's hand in my Grandmother's

She would separate the pieces into boxes: sky, faces, flowers, etc., etc. We would exchange boxes, exchange our smiles, and exchange our love.

The pieces would connect, and we could have a WHOLE. The satisfaction complete.....my Grandmom and I.

WHOLLY loved, one by the other.

Join the fun:

MAPP ~ the Journey of Parenting

2011-08-04T08:02:00.067-04:00

Photo credit

Although I am NO EXPERT, and I have made tons of mistakes for which I so wish I could have "do-overs," I have been asked from time to time for parenting advice.

The parental road is one which we would travel many times over even though it can be treacherous, long, and full of pit-stops ~ some joyous, some frustrating, some heart-breaking, some heart-rendering, some sweet, some too long, some too swift, and some way too scary.

Allow the Holy Spirit to be your Guide and the Bible be your map:

M ~ Model.....no one likes a hypocrite, and even kids can sense them a mile away. Make sure you are living a life that holds up to what you are espousing to them, and to the standards you have set for them.

A ~ Affirm....the world and Satan are going to try to crush them at every turn. Remind them consistently of the "wonder" they are, how precious they are in the sight of God, and how much you love them. Caution: Be careful to not instill in them arrogance, and a sense of entitlement. There is a fine line between "affirming" and "you are so great that the world revolves around you."

P ~ Prepare....do everything possible to get them ready to leave the nest. Of course good moral character tops the list, and them teach them everything from laundry, to how to handle money, to how to wake up by themselves to an alarm, to how to stand-up to peer pressure, to how to cook, to how to be a good friend, to time management and much more ~ wrack your brain to think of things to teach them.

Here is the legend:

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. Deut. 6: 6 - 9

And then, navigate that map with PRAYER. Pray. Pray. Pray.

I Thess. 5:17 ~ Continually be prayerful.

If we are to be in continual prayer....the children God entrusted us with should be a HUGE PORTION of our prayer life.

Let me reiterate ~ I veer off these directions ALL the TIME, but I am looking to the perfect Parent and Cartographer to help me get back on track when I do.

Blessings to you, dear ones, as you navigate this wondrous thing called Parenting.

I am linking up to a Blog Hop hosted by a darlin', godly woman who has a fabulous website...

He Loves Me.....

2011-07-29T08:24:00.000-04:00

......STILL!!!

I am a jerk. He loves me anyway.

I am a liar. He loves me anyway.

I am selfish. He loves me anyway.

I am fickle, a breaker of my promises. He loves me anyway.

I am judgemental. He loves me anyway.

I am fearful. He loves me anyway.

I am wasteful. He loves me anyway.

I am LOVED......STILL.

Thanking You, Lord God, for Your unconditional, longsuffering, gracious, merciful, and sacrificial LOVE....for the ultimate price You paid for me ~ for there is NO CONDEMNATION in Christ Jesus. Oh, that I will be transformed more and more into Your image day by day. Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of my faith......STILL.

This is part of a fun exercise over at (in)courage; Five Minute Friday

Generations.... Past and Future

2011-07-26T10:20:00.003-04:00

You've seen or heard about the scenario....a family Bible, perused many times, and all of a sudden ~ a letter, never seen before... appears.

I was always somewhat skeptical. Come on, how could you miss it?

Well, skeptical, no more. I found a letter. I've looked through the Bible before searching for a hint of anything about my ancestors. To no avail. And then, it just appeared.

A letter addressed to my Great-Grandmother. Dated July 10, 1896. With an elaborate logo, "The World for God."

Curiously, anxiously, excitedly and cautiously....I opened it and read:

My dear Auntie,

Your letter was received some days ago. I have delayed answering it for we have been so been so busy. Have moved and all-together it makes us all torn up. We are also in a tent. It is a new one and I am trying my best to pay for it. It is costing me $133.00 and our corps is allready much burdened. It keep be very very anxious to know how to manage but we are getting along very nicely. Our crowds are keeping up over 2000 people every week and souls are being saved. Praise God.

It was impossible Auntie to come on Decoration Day or on the 4th of July as both of them was very heavy days for the corps. I often think of you and wonder how you are. If you are alone ~ or not. I am wanting to ~ if I can ~ to get a rest after the Summer is over as it will not be off much use to rest in winter-time, but at present could not leave the corps only be sickness or death.

We are here in Frankford surrounded by very peculiar circumstances related to the work. Dear Auntie, last week I was sent for to take a meeting over the other side of Phila. and Oh! how I felt when I got off the street car and found myself only about two blocks from the Hospital where mother died. There it was standing in plain sight. I did not know it was any ways near. How I remembered that awfull Saturday when in the pouring rain I stood outside the great big doors without a friend near but Christ and they told me she was sent away. But God helped me to bear it. He only knows how and so Auntie, dear Jesus will help you. When you are lonely and sad remember Jesus is very very very near. That He is right in the room by your side. Do not worry. Jesus will grieve if you worry, but trust Him with all your heart and lean not unto thy own understanding. He is so much to be trusted.

Remember me to Uncle John. I trust that he still is comforted by the peace that passeth all understanding. Is Katie still in Bustleton? If she is, she is only a few miles from where I am stationed. If you would give her my address she could come and see me.

Well Auntie, I must close this letter as it is getting on toward time to take the open air meeting we hold there every night-but-one on the public streets. Well, hallelujah for the privilege. I am so glad that Jesus saves me now, and that I am a Salvationist ~ fighting for God.

With love to all.

Yours Faithfully,

Eva Mace

Capt.

I was amazed. Had no idea. I don't really know much of my family's spiritual heritage, strength of convictions, commitment level, service, etc.. So, this was very interesting piece of information.

It also aids with my theory ~ although I know it is God's SOVEREIGNTY that has brought me to Himself, and He CHOSE me before time eternal to be His child.... I sense that the faithful that have gone before me in my earthly family, somehow in God's mysterious ways, helped to usher me in.

My parents were not church-goers. They would drop us kids off at the church on Sunday morning sporadically. I loved God, but there was a disconnect (ritual and not relational). All those Friday afternoons (from 3:00 to 5:00) for three years in order to be confirmed were like a dull painting, cloudy and meaningless.

My grandparents on either side did not attend church, as well. (My paternal Grandmother died when my father was seven. My paternal Grandfather lived in an Old Soldier's Home in Washington, D.C. My maternal Grandfather ~ no, and my maternal Grandmother worked nights.)

Hopefully they had come to the full knowledge of Him by believing that Jesus was the Son of God who died for their sins, but it wasn't discussed. Those generations tended to be like that.

So, somewhere in my past lineage, I feel like there were those who earnestly prayed for their family's future generations, who sought to live godly lives, and now we are reaping those benefits:

Understand, therefore, that the LORD your God is indeed God. He is the faithful God who keeps His covenant for a thousand generations and lavishes His unfailing love on those who love Him and obey His commands. ~ Deuteronomy 7:9

Capt. Eva Mace and all those gone before me with their LOVE for God, I THANK YOU and salute you...for I am eternally grateful.

May I love and obey Him as my forefathers and foremothers before me ~ for my future generations sake.

Photo credit: Christopher Sleight

He Walked Across the Street....

2011-06-26T06:22:00.256-04:00

For those of you not familiar with Atlanta geography and landmarks....the beautiful campus of the Georgia Institute of Technology is in downtown Atlanta. Along with that, is the world headquarters for Coca-Cola. Actually, they are right across the street from each other. Literally.

My husband graduated from Georgia Tech in December 1972 and after celebrating Christmas and New Year's with family and friends.....he walked across the street. He started his new job January 2, 1973 with Coca-Cola.

He worked HARD. VERY hard. VERY, VERY HARD. He made his way through the ranks.

He has many-a-story to tell....like when his territory, as a young buck, was Plains, GA when Jimmy Carter was President.

The little boy from Panthersville, GA with determination, perseverance, and smarts, carved out a career that not many nowadays can experience ~ almost forty years with the same company.

This little girl from Birdsboro, PA is grateful. Very grateful.

We were blessed to be afforded some terrific perks and opportunities all along the way, almost too many to recount. We did some fabulous travelling ~ with two of my favorites being the Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway (magical), and fun trips to such enchanting places as England, Ireland, Scotland, Sweden, France, Monte Carlo, Italy, Israel, Egypt, and Hong Kong.

JT (as his Coke family calls him) had a stellar career ~ brightly shining. And now it dims. His choice. It is time.

Words can not really express how PROUD we are of him. Our family is thankful for this man and his career.

And now.....BLESSINGS and LOVE, as he comes full circle. As, once again ~ he walks across the street.

He will be working with GA TECH.

God is Awful

2011-06-01T20:45:00.001-04:00

Did you have an intake of breath after reading the title of this post?

Are you shaking your head, and saying to yourself, "Whaaaat?" "Has she gone crazy?"

Yep, my God is awful.

Did you know that the origins (c. 1300) of the word "awful" once meant "full of awe" or "awe-inspiring."

Early definitions state: "filling with profound reverence," or "with fear and admiration fitted to inspire reverential fear;" "profoundly impressive."

Only in the late 18th century did "awful" acquire its modern meaning of "very bad," probably through repeated use to mean "so bad as to inspire awe."

This brings to mind the recent tsunami, earthquakes, tornadoes, and floods. Awful.

Do I understand the horrifying death, destruction and devastation wrought from these? No.

It is part of the Fall; of living in a Fallen world.

However, God is sovereign.

It harkens us back to the mysterious awe of the Creator and Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent One who reigns.

My God is and always will be full of awe.

Prayers and blessings go out to all who were affected by the disasters.

O LORD, our Lord,

How majestic is Your name in all the earth,

Who have displayed Your splendor above the heavens!

Psalm 8:1

HE does the decorating this time.....

2011-04-14T16:44:00.000-04:00

And blessed be His glorious name forever;

And may the whole earth be filled with His glory

Amen and Amen. Psalm 72:19

We decorate pine trees to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

(Photo credit: Teresa @ "A Baby Changes Everything")

However, GOD does the decorating for of the pine trees to celebrate the glorious RESURRECTION of His Son!!!

~ with CROSSES!

Just in time for Easter the pine trees pay homage to the AWESOME SACRIFICE and VICTORY over death by symbolizing Christ's Crucifixion with new growth.

NEW LIFE on a TREE!!!

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. ~ I Peter 1:3

Blessed Resurrection, everyone!

"Twenty-One"

2011-04-04T22:19:00.000-04:00

We mark time...it is the rhythm of how we live here, and milestones of time are noted.

So, Corinne would have been "twenty-one" today and she may not be here physically, but none the less ~ the day is just as worthy for honoring her and celebrating her.

1. Treasured daughter, big sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend.

2. She loved to read ~ teaching herself at age four, and a book was never far from her face.

3. She loved to dance ~ and dance she did!!!

4. She loved to ski, and was good at it.

5. She loved to learn, and was a brilliant student.

6. She loved to play games and was always up for the competition.

7. She was a Texting Queen.

8. She loved shoes.

9. She loved music and loved to sing.

10. She would have LOVED "Glee!"

11. She loved being outdoors and alstroemerias her favorite flower.

12. She loved being with her friends.

13. She never complained or fell into a pit of self-pity.

14. She lived her life to the fullest.

15. She loved math (although as she got older, would not admit to it).

16. Her determination ~ an inspiration.

17. She had a quick wit and great sense of humor.

18. Her legacy lives on.

19. She is loved.

20. She is missed.

21. Her day of birth a time of THANKSGIVING for having her in our lives for seventeen years.

Corinne's friends with a sculpture of her representing her Scholarship Program.

First year's recipient above center, family and artist, Jeff Wolf - far left,

Oh you got to you got to remember the love,
You know that love is a gift from up above
Share love, give love, spread love
Measure, measure your life in love.
~ Seasons of Love (one of Corinne's favorite songs)

TWO PEAS.....

2011-03-13T18:00:00.001-04:00

Always together.....hand in hand

Always have each other's back

All night and all day


Time and space have separated them, but after several months and 12,000 miles......back in the SAME POD ~ in East Asia!!!! (at least for a week)

Spring Blogging Party

2011-03-05T16:17:00.000-05:00

Spring has sprung here in the South, and I thought I'd join the party.

How would people describe your personality? (If they could only use ONE word.) Are they right?

Boring ~ not really, but reading these answers might prove it.

What celebrity/celebrities would create a “Star-Struck” feeling if you saw them in real life?

Can't think of any....perhaps someone extremely godly.

Who is your favorite blogger? Why?

Can't pick ~ like picking your favorite child.

What is your comfort food/drink?

Something salty/then something sweet. Sprite ~ reminds me of Christmas (only time my Mom bought 7-Up)

Be brave – tell us something very random and weird about yourself.

I have hoarding tendancies.

Do you have a strong desire to do something you’ve never done? What is it?

Finish writing a book ~ but, it must not be STRONG enough, 'cause it's not getting done.

Movies: Action, Drama, Romantic Comedy, Documentary, Comedy? What are your favorite genres?

Romantic Comedy ~ too much drama and heartache in the real world....like to escape to some fun when watching a movie.

Books: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Romance, Biographies, True Stories, Self-Help, Devotional/Study? What are your favorite types of reading material?

All of the above ~ so many books, so little time. I probably have enough books in my house for five lifetimes.

Music: Funk, Rock, Country, Jazz, Classical, Film Score, Blues, Classic Rock, Crooner, Alternative, Heavy Metal, Techno? What are your favorite types?

Oldies but goodies.

If you inherited a million dollars, what is the first thing you would do with your money?

Put it in the bank and pray about it.

Name one weakness of yours (confession is good for the soul).

Wasting time ~ ugh.

If you could live anywhere at all (and take all your loved ones with you), where would you go?

Italy

Strange Talent? Can you juggle basketballs, put your legs behind your head or perform some other strange feat?

No strange talent.

What’s something you consider yourself to be good at? (Don’t worry, it’s not bragging, it’s acknowledging a God given gift).

Putting together Women's Retreats.

What is one of your favorite things to catch a whiff of?

Lilacs and lily of the valley.

When you leave a social gathering, do you wish: You would have talked more or You would have talked less?

After studying Proverbs several years ago, I have decided to pretty much "zip it." I'm usually not much of a talker.

If money wasn’t a factor, what stores would you shop in?

Same. Can't understand spending hundreds of dollars for shoes.

What is your greatest fear or strange phobia?

Claustrophobia.

What is your greatest accomplishment?

nothing really ~ God gets all the glory for anything that would be considered an accomplishment in my life. Have to ask Him.

What are your favorite animals?

Dogs.

Are you a hopeless romantic?

No.

What movie or book character can you most relate to?

Bridget Jones ~ before Christ....I was a mess.

WORLD POPULATION

2011-02-05T10:54:00.001-05:00

During my Quiet Time this morning as I prayed, a few of the key verses I use to pray for the unsaved came to mind.....I Timothy 2:4 and II Peter 3:9

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
God wants ALL people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the TRUTH.

So, I thought...I wonder how many are ALL right now, and went to the WORLD POPULATION website/counter.

Fascinating ~

When I first got there, it was: 6,897,838,826.

Every few seconds I would refresh: ...927, 956, 985, 9,014, 043, 086, 115, 129, 158, 172, 187, 201, 232.

The AWESOMENESS of God takes my breath away.

Thinking about HIS OMNIPRESENCE....HE is there for EACH ONE of those births, deaths and everything in between.

Thinking about HIS OMNISCIENCE....HE knows every cry of every person, every hair on every head, and every thought of each and every one of us on this planet.

Thinking about HIS OMNIPOTENCE....it is through HIS almighty power that almost SEVEN BILLION people live, move, breath and have their being ~ and HE KNOWS every life, every movement, every breath, every thought, every word, and every deed.

WOW!

Soon to be.....SEVEN BILLION

Heavenly Father, and Creator of ALL things ~ the earth is full of Your GLORY, and may ALL of these t SEVEN BILLION people realize WHO the CREATOR of that GLORY is, and give their sinful hearts to YOU so YOU can reside there and they can live out the FULLNESS You long for them to have. By the BLOOD of the LAMB that saves yesterday, today and tomorrow, may ALL be SAVED and come to the KNOWLEDGE of the TRUTH. In Jesus' victorious name I pray. AMEN and AMEN

They are yellow, black and white. They are precious in His sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world.

Oh that EACH ONE, would REACH ONE.....don't let this happen.

God doesn't need us, but He wants to use us. May we be used of Him, to further His Kingdom for His glory...it is ALL due His GLORIOUS NAME, Jesus the Christ.

Addendum: as of press time....the population is now 6,898,045,314.

Seven billion coming soon ~ each one, reach one.

Welcome, February

2011-01-31T22:31:00.000-05:00

Ahhhh, the harshness and the dead of January is behind us.

The month of love begins and promises of things to come.

A month when our hearts start the pitter-patter of the hope of Spring, and its first floral appearing....

...the snowdrop

As winter fades above you,

Your crown pokes through the ground.

You tentatively peep and take

A regal look around.

Good morning little snowdrop, so full of hope and grace.How wonderful to welcome your gentle smiling face.

You stretch to reach the sunlight

With gracious, sylphlike yawn.

Your confidence is growing;

Hope of spring begins to dawn.

Good afternoon young snowdrop, so full of peace and love

How wonderful to welcome you to the world above.

The snow has disappeared,

And winter turns and leaves.

Your wave farewell reveals

Your long and slender sleeves.

Good day my little snowdrop, so delicate and fineHow wonderful to welcome you into this heart of mine.

You sway in celebration,

Dancing lightly in the breeze.

The weather has a delicate

And sudden, tiny sneeze.

Good evening humble snowdrop; I’m so pleased that you’re here.You bring a breath of life to the beginning of the year.

Copyright

Angela Yardy 2010

Snowdrops are a member of the lily family ~ closely related to the daffodil, originally from Turkey.

The snowdrop's affinity in Great Britian is similar to the tulip in Holland with splendid displays throughout the British Isles. According to the Great British Gardens website, there are over forty listings of estates and parks who welcome those interested in taking in the beautiful parade of winter's bourgeoning promise.

The snowdrop has been a garnered spectacle since the early Middle Ages because of its association with faith, as they cluster around churchyards and old religious foundations such as ruined abbies and prioiries. Imagine before the advent of electricity, the gloom of a February day and the dank darkness of a medieval church.

The snowdrop has had a strong association with a specific feast of the Roman Catholic Church: Candlemas. Candlemas takes place forty days after Christmas, February 2nd. It is the feast of the Purification of the Virgin Mary. Before the Reformation, parishioners formed in procession, brought their candles to be blessed, then lit, and set before the Virgin's statue. Then the precious candles were taken home to ward off evil spirits. It is not hard to imagine how, on a typically gloomy February day in a medieval church that was fairly dark anyway, that this must have provided a spectacle of brightness that left onlookers quite spellbound. It must have been the brightest moment, quite literally, of the whole year. Then the precious candles were taken home, to ward off evil spirits.

It is easy to imagine, too, how snowdrops were the perfect flower for the feast, flawless symbols of purity and cleanliness, and what pleasure must have been taken in gathering them, or in merely having them growing around a church on the day itself. They were known then as Candlemas bells.

For most of us, Candlemas and its traditions are long gone, but the flower whose plantings it inspired lives on to remind us that winter is ending.

Snowdrop ~ the hope of Spring.

The hope of Spring ~ Jesus the Christ.

Be strong and take heart, all you who HOPE in the LORD.

Psalm 31:24

"ALL IN"

2011-01-11T11:09:00.001-05:00

I started this post yesterday and no, this post is not about Auburn University's football program's slogan for this year ~ "ALL IN." But as I type this, AU is less than twelve hours away from being declared the NATIONAL CHAMPIONS....so, the concept certainly worked for them. As a mother of two Auburn grads, I just have to say, WAR EAGLE! Congrats.

Many bloggers start out their new year with a "word." They have included "Quiet," "Trust," and "Believe."

Mine is "ALL." It has been for a few years now, because I can't seem to wrap myself around it as I want, as I ought....probably never will, but I want to try harder. I want to be "ALL IN." I am scared and I am fickle, but yes.

A dear friend of mine starts out her year asking the Lord for a scripture verse.

Well, I have a whole devotional book filled with scripture verses that contain the word "ALL" that I have thoroughly enjoyed over the past couple of years....look forward to reading it each day. I highly recommend it:

The word "ALL" appears more than 5,000 times in the Bible. A lot to absorb.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Key verse ~ And He answered, "You shall love the Lord your God with ALL your heart, and with ALL your soul, and with ALL your strength, and with ALL your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." Luke 10:27

Comforting promise ~ And we know that God causes ALL things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

Sweet forgiveness! ~ "You have thrown ALL my sins behind Your back." Isaiah 38:17

What love and devotion! ~ "But the very hairs of your head are ALL numbered." Matthew 10:30

Doesn't get any better than this! ~ Surely goodness and mercy will follow me ALL the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23:6

Jesus is my ALL in ALL. Hopefully, I will LIVE like it, and not just sing about it.... although this song is a beautiful reminder:

Now to Him.... who is able to do far more abundantly beyond ALL that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21

And to you.... The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you ALL,

Becky

Maybe this year.....?

2011-01-04T07:18:00.000-05:00

...by Elisabeth Elliott:

Maybe this year will be the year of desire fulfilled.

Perhaps, on the other hand, it will be the year desire radically transformed, the year of finding, as we have not perhaps truly found, CHRIST to be the ALL-SUFFICIENT ONE, Christ, the "deep, sweet well of Love."

Here is the opportunity offered. Be patient. Wait on the Lord for whatever He appoints, wait quietly, wait trustingly. HE holds every minute of every hour of every day of every month of every year in HIS hands. Thank Him in advance for what the future holds, for HE is already there. "Lord, YOU have assigned my portion and my cup." Psalm 16:5 Shall we not gladly say, "I'll take it, Lord. YES! I'll trust You for everything. Bless the Lord, O my soul." E.E.

ALL the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:16

.....not maybe, Lord, but MAY I trust and rest in Your sovereignty, for it is blanketed like the warmest, coziest blanket on a bitter cold winter night with MERCY, GRACE, PERFECT LOVE, GOODNESS, KINDNESS, COMPASSION, FAITHFULNESS and FORGIVENESS, and look to the Author and Finisher of my faith; my Redeemer, my Friend, my Intercessor, my Counselor, my Victor, my ALL in ALL, JESUS, the CHRIST.

Blessed new year to ALL who read this.

All I Want for Christmas is....

2010-12-16T11:26:00.001-05:00

.....WORLD PEACE ~ right? RIGHT.

Definitely. But, this is not what this blog is about.

I have many favorite Christmas songs..... but, again, that is not what this post is about.

Today I would like to share one of my LEAST favorite songs with you:

"All I Want for Christmas is You."

Ugh ~ I think it is a combination of being OVER-PLAYED and the vision of Mariah being a silly caricature of herself in the inappropriate costume.

But, anyway....I have found a way to not only tolerate it, but embrace it.

Now, all the lyrics aren't quite symbiotic to my point....but the overall focus is now changed.

All I want for Christmas is........YOU, JESUS!

Yes, I already have Him. I asked Him to be my Savior almost forty years ago, I have a relationship with Him and He resides in me. However, so does my SELF, and as Princess Diana once stated: "It is a bit crowded."
So, LESS of me, and MORE of JESUS.

The irony of Christmas in today's culture is that we give EVERYONE else gifts, except the BIRTHDAY BOY...the PERSON whose birthday it really is and for whom we supposedly celebrate.

So, what would a good Christmas gift for JESUS be?

"ALL HE wants for Christmas is........YOU!."

After all, He left His throne, broke through the glory of heaven to come to earth, humbly and earnestly ~ to die a horrific, torturous death because He wants a relationship with you NOW and for all eternity.

Won't you give Him the gift of yourself?

Visit here for giving and receiving the GREATEST GIFT of all!

So, perfect ~ all I want for Christmas is JESUS and all He wants for Christmas is ME and YOU!!!

I found this cute youtube version of the song. I don't know these girls....but, how refreshing.
(You can stop at around four minutes....somewhat redundant and don't want to waste your time.)

Blessed gift giving and receiving!

"I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day"

2010-12-08T13:37:00.005-05:00

Generally speaking, we all know the first verse of the Christmas carol, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day...

.....their old familiar carols play.
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will toward men.

And that's about it, right?

The first verse evokes images of a time long ago.....a sweet, simpler time when the true meaning of Christmas would indeed ring out and could be embraced and enjoyed with intentional pertinence.

However, the back story behind this well-known song is a poignant expression of what many of us face ~ the immense pain that comes with living in a fallen world, and melding it with the hope and joy of the coming of our Savior and King. The tension between sorrow and happiness.

First of all.....the lyrics were written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Who knew?

In 1861, the famous poet experienced what we would call in today's vernacular, "a very bad year" ~ the nation went to war, brother against brother, and his beloved wife died tragically. This is a recounting of the incident:

The day before the accident, Fanny Longfellow recorded in her journal: "We are all sighing for the good sea breeze instead of this stifling land one filled with dust. Poor Allegra is very droopy with heat, and Edie has to get her hair in a net to free her neck from the weight." After trimming some of seven year old Edith's beautiful curls, Fanny decided to preserve the clippings in sealing wax. Melting a bar of sealing wax with a candle, a few drops fell unnoticed upon her dress. The longed for sea breeze gusted through the window, igniting the light material of Fanny's dress-- immediately wrapping her in flames. In her attempt to protect Edith and Allegra, she ran to Henry's study in the next room, where Henry frantically attempted to extinguish the flames with a nearby, but undersized throw rug. Failing to stop the fire with the rug, he tried to smother the flames by throwing his arms around Frances-- severely burning his face, arms, and hands. Fanny Longfellow died the next morning. Too ill from his burns and grief, Henry did not attend her funeral. (Incidentally, the trademark full beard of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow arose from his inability to shave after this tragedy.)

His journal entries mirrored his grief:

Christmas 1861 ~ "How inexpressibly sad are all holidays. I can make no record of these days. Better leaven them wrapped in silence. Perhaps someday God will give me peace."

December 25, 1862 ~ " 'A merry Christmas' says the children, but that is no more for me."

Almost a year later, Longfellow received word that his oldest son Charles, a lieutenant in the Army of the Potomac, had been severely wounded with a bullet passing under his shoulder blades and taking off one of the spinal processes

1863 ~ his journal remained silent.

Christmas Day, 1864 ~ he wrote the words to the poem, "Christmas Bells"

the verses continue.....

I thought how as the day had come
The belfries of all Christendom
Had roll'd along th' unbroken song
Of Peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair, I bow'd my head:
"There is no peace on earth," I said,
"For hate is strong and mocks the song,
Of Peace on earth, good will to men."

Then from each black, accursed mouth
The cannon thundered in the South,
And with the sound the carols drowned
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

It was as if an earthquake rent
The hearthstones of a continent,
And made forlorn, the households born
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep;
"God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
With Peace on earth, good will to men."

Hallelujah, just like the psalmist.....out of his despair, he dug deep into his soul, relying not on his feelings, but on the TRUTH of who God is!!!

My soul, wait silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory; The rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us" Psalm 62: 5-8

So, in this season of Advent ~ may the TRUTH of WHO GOD IS....

.... ring a joyous sweet song in your soul ~ for HE is AWESOME and so very WORTHY.

My Christmas wish for you, dear friend, no matter your circumstances....God's TRUTH and His profound presence in your spirit......the JOY that is "EMMANUEL, with us," and the HOPE of His glory.

Enjoy this historical hymn with a new rendition and new understanding:

Liberation!

2010-11-30T21:36:00.002-05:00

That is the word that keeps coming to mind, and how I am feeling....liberated.

Why? You may ask, if you are interested.

For all intents and purposes, I am doing NO Christmas shopping.

Yep.

My husband and I generally over the past several years have not exchanged. And this year, with one daughter in East Asia.....it is sort of pointless to spend lots of money to send over stuff she probably won't be able to fit in her suitcase when she comes home this summer. And our other daughter moved into a new place this past summer, and we helped her out making it cozy and feel like home.

Besides just a few things here and there for some other relatives, I have jumped off of the "retail treadmill."

It is sooooooooooo freeing, and feels absolutely marvelous.

I HIGHLY recommend it.

After all.....

haven't we already received the GREATEST GIFT of ALL!!!!!!!!!!!!!

If you have not ACCEPTED this wonderful gift.....yet, I pray you will. Nothing compares.

All you have to do is talk to God saying something like this:

I would like to receive the gift of eternal life and forgiven sins because Jesus, Your Son, came to earth to live and die for ME. I would like to celebrate the TRUE meaning of Christmas this year by accepting this gift.

AMEN

If you believe that Jesus is the Son of God, who took your sins (that you have done things that are contrary to how God wants you to live) away on the cross and was resurrected because He is part of the awesome triune God and He is alive and hears your prayers, then WELCOME to the family!

Please find a church that can help you to grow in this MOST amazing journey. (Just like there are distinct personalities to each person, so it is with churches. Keep looking until you find one that is right for you.) In the meantime, start reading the Bible ~ the New Testament is the best place to start.

GLORY to the NEWBORN KING!

and congratulations to you....

dear brother or sister in Christ.

May this be the most merriest of Christmases.

Giving Thanks

2010-11-12T09:16:00.229-05:00

I LOVE November with the crispness in the air, the earthy smell of the fallen leaves, and the cocooning process. I also LOVE that it is a month in which giving thanks is highlighted.

As I was pondering ALL for which I was thankful for, I thought it would take much more than the thirty days of November to express.....so I'll have to move into December, January ~ ahhh, let's just say 365!

Now, except for the top 25 of so.....they are pretty random, and you will see how scattered my brain can be.

I may have repeated, but I also lumped some categories together; i.e., food ~ so, if I individualized some ~ there would be plenty more.

1. My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ's humility, obedience, and sacrifice on the Cross.
2. That He saved me.
3. That I now have life, and life abundant.
4. That I will spend eternity with Him.
5. That my loved ones will be there with Him also.
6. That He is sooooooo patient with me.
7. That He loves me unconditionally and lavishly.
8. That He never leaves me or forsakes me.
9. That He is trustworthy and faithful.
10. That He supplies all of my needs according to His riches in glory.
11. Health
12. My dear husband
13. How hard he works
14. How kind he is
15. How generous he is
16, My wonderful children
17. How thoughtful they are
18. How committed they are to being authentic Christ-followers
19. How dedicated and trustworthy they are to all they do.
20. Their jobs :)
21. Their friends
22. Their future husbands
23. Their future children & my grandchildren
24. How sweet they are to my parents
25. That my parents are OK, considering their ages and health
26. That my sister lives ten doors away, and takes fabulous care of them
27. My brother-in-law, too.
28. My nephew and his wife, too.
29. My extended family.
30. My in-laws.
31. My friends.
32. My church.
33. My ability to travel.
34. All of my GREAT traveling experiences.
35. My giftedness which God gave me.
36. My senses.
37. Nature
38. My house.
39. My car
40. My clothes
41. My jewelry
42. Books
43. Pets
44. Furniture
45. Memories
46. Hopes
47. Dreams
48. Ancestors
49. Medical technology
50. Doctors
51. The GREATEST Physician of all, Jesus
52. Hospitals
53. Medicine
54. Insurance
55. Helping others
56. Food in the pantry
57. That my husband likes to cook
58. That he likes to fix my strawberries
59.. That S.B. likes to cook
60. That my sister likes to cook
61. That my sister-in-law likes to cook
62. Heating
63. Air conditioning
64. Sheets
65. Blankets
66. Pillows
67. Computers
68. Telephones
69. SKPE
70. Indoor plumbing
71. Winter
72. Spring
73. Summer
74. Fall
75. Sunrises
76. Sunsets
77. Rain
78. Snow
79. Airplanes
80. Cars
81. Other modes of transportation that makes our lives easier
82. Restaurants
83. Summer memories in Potter County
84. Summer memories "down the shore"
85. Teachers
86. Schools
87. Holidays
88. Worship
89. Music
90. Bible
91. The written word
92. Magazines
93. Acrylic nails
94. Make-up
95. Toothpaste
96. Shampoo and conditioner
97. Lotion
98. Perfume
99. Soap
100. Stationary
101. Calendars
102. Creativity
103. Art
104.  Stores
105. Postal service
106. Internet
107. Gardens
108. Farmers
109. Inventors
110. Missionaries
102. Ministries
103. Selfless people
104. Clean air to breathe
105. Clean water to drink
106. Beauty
107. Luggage
108. Television
109. Weather forecasts
110. Cameras
111. Photographs
112. Writing instruments
113. Paper supplies
114. Tea
115. All Coca-Cola products :)
116. Nurses
117. Nice neighbors
118. Mentors
119. Mentees
120. Encouragers
121. That God is sovereign
122. That God is victorious
123. That God is the King of King and Lord of Lords
124. the Holy Spirit
125. Dentists
126. Massages
127. Stuff that keeps you organized
128. Flowers
129. Trees
130. Gentle breezes
131. Beautiful waterfalls
132. Freedom
133. A country that was built on Christian principles
134. Wisdom from above
135. the Peace that passes all understanding
136. Joy
137. Comfort
138. Forgiveness
139. Security
140. Women's Ministry
141. Women's Retreats
142. Rest
143. Sleep
144. Respite
145. Storage spaces (basements, etc.)
146. Guest room for company
147. Porches
148. Moon
149. Stars
150. Clouds
151. Libraries
152. Sports
153. Games
154. Puzzles
155. Toys
156. that Scripture is alive ans active
157. that God is omnipotent
158. that God is omnipresent
159. that God is omniscient
160. that God is majestic
161. that God is marvelous
162. that God is magnificent
163. that God is my Father
164. Safety
165. Protection
166. Smiles
167. Tears
168. Harvests
169. Angels
170. Help
171. Mercy
172. Grace
173. Redemption
174. Quiet
175. Excellence
176. Integrity
177. Honesty
178. Laws
179. Traffic rules
180. Goodness
181. My God is good.
182. Kindness
183. My God is kind.
184. Compassion
185. My God is compassionate.
185. Justice
186. My God is just.
187. Love
188. My God is loving.
189. Prayer
190. Jesus is my Intercessor
191. Dancing
192. Praise
193. That My god is worthy of praise.
194. Restoration
195. Reconciliation
196. Righteousness
197. Plan B
199. My God is holy.
200. My God is glorious.
201. My God is awesome.
202. My God is the Name above ALL names.
203. My God is the Way, the Truth and the Life.
204. My God is unchanging and unchangeable.
205. I am not alone.
206. I am God's handiwork.
207. I am God's daughter.
208. I am God's friend.
209. God is my strength.
210. God is my shield.
211. God is the restorer of my soul.
212. Singing
213. Blogs that I love.
214. The women that write them.
215. Time
216. That God will restore the years the locust has eaten.
217. Thesauruses
218. Dictionaries
219. Concordances
220. Commentaries
221. Repairmen
222. Seamstresses
223. Light
224. Power
225. Chocolate
226. Fun
227. Laughter
228. Candles
229. Exotic locations and getting to visit them
230. Bible translators and the translations
231. Video cameras
232. Treasured mementos
233. Yarn
234. The afghans my Mom made me
235. The ceramics she made me
236. The cards my kids gave me
237. Thank You notes
238. Gifts
239. Iron sharpening iron.
240. A clean house.
241. God hears.
242. God cares.
243. God answers.
244. Birthdays.
245. Special days.
246. Ordinary days.
247. Windows
248. Eyeglasses
249. Contacts
250. Hair stylists
251. Good ideas
252. Plans that come together.
253. Veterinarians
254. U.S. Military ~ past, present and future.
255. God's amazing creation
256. God's creatures...except maybe mosquitoes ~ why God?
257. Police
258. Firefighters
259. EMTs
260. Ambulances
261. Funny jokes
262. Nice movies
263. Resources
264. Personalities like me
265. Personalities that are not like me
266. Accessories
267. Garbage collectors
268. Things that make my house cozy
269. Calculators
270. Oceans
271. Mountains
272. Lessons I've learned
273. My husband is a great father.
274.  The Church
275. Harmony
276. People who use their gifts to glorify God
277. Faith
278. Carpet
279. Carpet cleaners
280. Decorations
281. Decorators
282.  Clean laundry
283. Wisdom
284. that my God is triune
285. The Father God
286. His Son, Jesus ~ fully God and fully man
287. Holy Spirit
288. that the Holy Spirit lives within me
289. Unity
290. My God is longsuffering
291. My God is my Rock, my Anchor, my Refuge, my Everything
292. Treats
293. My husband's unconditional love
294. My children's unconditional love
295. My parent's unconditional love
296. My doggie's unconditional love
297. that "this too" shall pass
298. found "lost" objects
299. Mechanics
300. Plumbers
301. Ingenuity
302. a nice yard
303. trees
304. walking trails
305. tennis courts
306. swimming pools
307. sales
308. coupons
309. fun opportunities
310. God's glory
311. authenticity
312. understanding
313. good communication
314. comprehension
315. a purpose-driven life
316. friends to do things with
317. friends to travel with
318. friends that are there for me
319. aunts
320. uncles
321. cousins
322. time with grandparents
323. a sense of humor
324. remembering....
325. my heritage
326. Jesus is victorious, my Victor!
327. that God works all things together for good for me
328. that greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world
329. God's favor
330. Sanctification
331. God is my Sustainer
332. Jesus is my wonderful Counselor
333. Jesus is the Quieter of the storm
334. My God is the Name above all names
335. My God is on the Throne far above all rule and authority and power and dominion
336. Pedicures
337. Color
338. Garages
339. Garage door openers
340. Paper Towels
341. Food
342. Celebrations
343. Flowers
344. Snow
345. Maps
346. Hats
347. Gloves
348. Ingenuity
349. Vacations
350. Sun
351. Facials
352. Television
353. Movies
354. Videos
355. My teeth
356. My immune system

Thank You, thank You, thank You, God ~ from WHOM ALL BLESSINGS flow!

Happy Thanksgiving, ya'll!

"Is It Hot Enough For Ya?"

2010-09-06T11:42:00.002-04:00

We've had a few days of respite from the intense heat of summer, so extremely lovely ~ but apparently the 90's are coming back.

Everyone likes to talk about the weather. On beautiful days...we expound about how gorgeous it is outside. On extreme days...we complain about how hot, how cold, how rainy, how windy it is.

Especially, the heat.

Globally, 2010 is set to be the hottest recorded.

Where I live, the heat seemed relentless. We had 64 days of temperatures of 90 degrees or more. The most since 1993. The all-time record dates back to 1980 with 70 days.

Now, the reason I bring this up is this:

I keep thinking that those hot summer days that seemed relentlessly ruthless are really a terrible foreshadowing of spending eternity in Hell...a blip on the radar screen of an everlasting fire.
Hell, is not a subject readily talked about these days.

A survey done by the Barna Group have found these results:

Most Americans do not expect to experience Hell first-hand: just one-half of 1% expect to go to Hell upon their death. Nearly two-thirds of Americans (64%) believe they will go to Heaven. One in 20 adults (5%) claim they will come back as another life form, while the same proportion (5%) contend they will simply cease to exist.

Oh, that that statistic would be close. I hope it is off by .05% ~ because God wants NONE to perish, but ALL to come to the knowledge of Him (II Peter 3:9)...and that is pretty darn close.

There is a condition that must take place in order for 100% to indeed, not experience Hell first-hand. That is to enter into a relationship with the Living, Triune God. How to do that is easy: Acknowledge that you are a sinner, and believe that Jesus Christ came to the earth, fully God and fully man, died a sacrificial death to absolve you of your sins, is resurrected and sitting on the Throne in Heaven.

Yesterday at our church, Ken Boa gave a sermon on hell. Not being a theologian or particularly adequate in expounding on this subject, I am going to give you a few of his quotes from his website:

"The reason Jesus spoke about hell more than anyone else did is because He wanted no one to go there. "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9; also see John 3:16)

"Jesus taught the existence of hell. He had more to say about hell in fact, than heaven, in order to warn us and turn us to salvation. A few of the examples of Jesus' teachings on hell include Matthew 5:22, 29, 30; 10:28; 11:22-24; 18:9; 22:13; 23:15,33; 25:41,46; 26:24; Mark 9:43-48. Many other Scriptures affirm the existence of hell. The Apostle Paul spoke of everlasting punishment and separation from God (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9)."

(me again) Since God does not want us to have a relationship through puppetry (with Him being the Master Puppeteer), He gave us a choice. We can choose to believe we are sinners, Jesus Christ is the Son of God who died on the cross to take away those sins and restore us to a RIGHT relationship with our Creator, or NOT. That is what determines our eternal destiny....Heaven for those who accept Jesus as their Savior, and Hell for those who do not.

I am a nerd. I have a book, a "Weather Journal" in which I notate mostly extreme weather happenings.

Jesus has a book, too. It is going to determine the weather of each and every day (if there are days) of your eternal existence ~ ones which are beautiful, glorious and perfect, or ones which are unyielding in the blazing inferno.

"If anyone's name was not found written in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the lake of fire." Rev. 20:15

Please, please, please have YOUR name written in the Book of Life. God loves you, but He is also HOLY, and can not look at sin. His wrath is for those who refuse and reject His offer of salvation ~ to repent, be cleansed by Jesus, the sacrificial blood of the Lamb that was slain for this reason, and to accept the greatest gift of all ~ reconciliation with God, and eternity in Heaven. Choose God's love.

The weather is perfect.

Iced Tea ---- A Confession and a Carol

2010-07-09T16:11:00.007-04:00

OK, don't gasp...not in this heat.

Sweet tea is NOT served here.

Nope. Not at my house.

Although I have lived in the South most of my life, I can not stand sweet tea. There I said it.

But don't let that hold you back. Go "fix ya some tea" and then come back and watch a cute video clip:

"Southern Living" Southern Sweet Tea

6 cups boiling water
4 family size tea bags
1 to 1½ cups sugar

Pour boiling water over tea bags; cover and steep for 5 minutes. Stir in the sugar. Pour the mixture into a 1 gallon pitcher, and add enough water to fill it to the top. Serve over ice.

So, with my sincerest apologies to all my TRUE SOUTHERN SWEET TEA drankers, enjoy this tribute.

Happy sippin' ya'll!

The TRUE Empty Nest

2010-06-26T15:16:00.001-04:00

I have twins. Identical.

Being identical, they are similar in many ways (looks, interests, tastes), but yet very individual (personalities, pursuits, hobbies).

The same, but different.

They graduated from college last month....together.

Most mothers (and fathers) generally start the bewailing and 'wringing of heart' the Senior year of high school concerning their children leaving the nest.

Being a mother who would experience the "empty nest" all at once, I would often get the question: "How did you handle it?"

Well, I would say two things ~ one is.......a project. I had a project to keep me busy. So, I would suggest perhaps to pick a project and set a goal. Anything from small to large: cleaning out the basement, making a scrapbook of family vacations, taking a class you've always wanted to, volunteer, plan a trip, or a myriad of other things that would fit into your life and interests.

The other is ~ perspective. At the time my girls were graduating from high school, their cousin was fiercely and courageously battling a terminal cancer she was diagnosed with when she was thirteen. Now, that puts things in the proper context. My children were healthy, and entering a new chapter of their lives. A GOOD thing. Health, life and being able to take the next step on this flight in order to grow, spread wings, and fly is a beautiful and wondrous thing.

I know it helped that they were within a day's driving distance, and we saw them probably once a month or so.

Their last semester they both spent abroad. One in Italy and one in Germany. Somewhat harder. Thank God for Skype, however!!!

Now, to me ~ the TRUE "empty nest" is setting in ~ one is heading to her first "real" job and one is heading to East Asia for a year enrolled in university and interning with Campus Crusade for Christ.

The FINALITY of their childhood seems to be real now.

Much to their chagrin, however sometimes I am very good at practicing the old adage: "Once a mother, always a mother." (Did you put on sunscreen? Did you Mapquest? Did you eat today?). So,

The same, but different.

The basement is calling my name.....

Diana + Theresa = Hope

2010-06-06T16:40:00.001-04:00

Jesus is the TRUTH to be told;

Jesus is the LIFE to be lived;

Jesus is the LOVE to be loved;

Jesus is the LIGHT to be lit.

Let us love Jesus

with an undivided LOVE,

and others, as He

LOVES

you and me.

(Mother Theresa 1992)

The prayer book and tiara are a few of the pieces of memorabilia in the exhibit called:

"Diana: a Celebration!"

I can't help but wonder if Diana, in reading Mother Theresa's inscribed words to her

or in spending time with her,

ever accepted the TRUTH of Jesus' love...

...ever truly became a Princess, being a Daughter of the TRUE KING.

One can HOPE.

Since they both died within the same week, in my hope-filled, romanticized notions...

perhaps God planned for them to be on a "special assignment" together.

....in heaven, as it was on earth.

Hope so.

I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.
I Timothy 2: 1-4

Joy in the Journey

2010-03-14T14:51:00.000-04:00

"It is God to whom and with whom we travel, and while He is the End of our journey, He is also at every stopping place." Elisabeth Elliot

I am going on a long journey with lots of stopping places, and may not be able to post for awhile. The next few weeks I will be feverishly trying to get everything done that needs to be done when one is gone for a month's time. I also have a HUGE project at church that takes place shortly after I get back, so I am trying to accomplish as much as possible on that before I leave.

Now, this journey is a JOYOUS one ~ praise God. It is one of His lavish gifts for which I am extremely grateful. I will join my daughters for their Spring Breaks in Europe. Since they are not scheduled at the same time, nor are they concurrent; the four-week time span comes into play.

My daughters are graduating from college, and moving on into a more mature place in their lives....one of commitment and responsibility (read: jobs, with limited vacation time.)

So, this is a perfect opportunity to spend quality, unfettered time with them while visiting exotic locations. How wonderful is that?-

Sara Beth chose Turkey for her destination. We will spend time in Istanbul. I am very excited because I get to go back to one of my FAVORITE places I have ever been ~ Ephesus. OH.MY.WORD. To be able to see where Paul lived and preached ~ to walk the same streets!!! Incredible. And, by the way, those streets upon which I will tread once again, are MOSAIC. Yep, mosaic! The accoustics in the amphitheater in which he preached are phenomenal. You can whisper, and still hear. We will also visit Capedoccia. Capedoccia from what I've read is very interesting.

I will then spend some down-time on my own in Italy ~ visting Ariccia (Sara Beth's town, and visiting my friend, Anne in Assisi. Assisi has been on my Bucket List because of Francis.

Then, Meg has chosen Greece for her destination. We will be staying in Santorini for a few days and then some friends have graciously and generously offered us their home on the island of Naxos ~ about two hours ferry ride from Santorini. Wonder of wonders ~ EASTER in Greece is HUGE....bigger than Christmas, and Orthodox Greek Easter falls while we are there. So, I am very excited to see what that experience is like.

Now, here is an interesting side note. I have loved traveling all my life. However, a few years ago....I felt like I was putting it too high on my "Priority List," and it was interfering with my Top Priority ~ my relationship with God, because it was taking up too much time ~ planning and thoughts. So, instead of 'me' being my travel agent....I made God my Travel Agent. (Duh ~ He's my Travel Agent anyway, but I wasn't letting Him plan my itinerary ~ forcing my plans on Him, instead of the other way around. Not the way to go.
So, He has taken away my desire to travel. Which is sort of weird and sad, but 1,000% OK.

Though I am THRILLED to be able to travel with my girls...being gone for a month is a bit daunting to me. I am a HOMEBODY.

Like everything, I just want this trip to glorify my Father in heaven. With so many spiritual elements involved, I think He will show us some great and mighty things. I am praying so.

So, although I hope to post on my trip....can't promise between available Internet access and such.

So, hang in there with me. I'll be back. God and I are traveling.

True Victory!

2010-03-01T21:25:00.002-05:00

As I watched the Winter Olympics, and witnessed the palpable, exuberant, overflowing JOY of those who DID their personal best ~ it was a reminder that we, too, are in the Olympics.

Our performance may not be televised, but we certainly have an audience of ONE.

As followers of Christ, our "sport" is to run the race He has set before us with endurance and excellence.

Each of us have our very own unique race that God has designed, but the "game plan" is the same:

* "Love the Lord Your God with all your heart and all your soul and with all your might." And love your neighbor as yourself."

* Be humble

* Be obedient

* Be surrendered

Athletes must be humble, odedient and surrendered to their Coach, in order to be the best that they can be. In order to be a champion. In order to be victorious.

As a Christian, God is our coach. And He guarantees the victory.

"But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." I Corinthians 15:57

Are we listening to our Coach?

Are we being the athlete God called us to be?

Are we being victorious?

Oh, to have that joy of winning the "gold"....but for an audience of "ONE."

"But He knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold." Job 23:10

Whose Your Valentine?

2010-02-12T21:05:00.001-05:00

Once upon a time there was a girl who had four boyfriends.

She loved the fourth boyfriend the most and adorned him with rich robes and treated him to the finest of delicacies. She gave him nothing but the best.
Beautiful Love by Jô Angel div>

She also loved the third boyfriend very much and was always showing him off to neighboring kingdoms. However, she feared that one day he would leave her for another.

Love Vintage by Jô Angel
She also loved her second boyfriend. He was her confidant and was always kind, considerate and patient with her. Whenever this girl faced a problem, she could confide in him, and he would help her get through the difficult times.

Beautiful love 02 by Jô Angel on Polyvore.com

The girl's first boyfriend was a very loyal partner and had made great contributions in maintaining her wealth and kingdom. However, she did not love the first boyfriend. Although he loved her deeply, she hardly took notice of him!

Vintage Princess by Jô Angel featuring Disney Couture jewelry

One day, the girl fell ill and she knew her time was short. She thought of her luxurious life and wondered, 'I now have four boyfriends with me, but when I die, I'll be all alone.'

Thus, she asked the fourth boyfriend, 'I loved you the most, endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?'

'No way!', replied the fourth boyfriend, and he walked away without another word. His answer cut like a sharp knife right into her heart.

The sad girl then asked the third boyfriend,'I loved you all my life. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?'

'No!', replied the third boyfriend. 'Life is too good! When you die, I'm going to marry someone else!'

Her heart sank and turned cold.

Love 02 by Jô Angel featuring Juicy Couture accessories

She then asked the second boyfriend, 'I have always turned to you for help and
you've always been there for me. When I die, will you follow me and keep me company?'

'I'm sorry , I can't help you out this time!', replied the second boyfriend. 'At the very most, I can only walk with you to your grave.'

His answer struck her like a bolt of lightning, and the girl was devastated.

Then a voice called out: 'I'll go with you. I'll follow you no matter where you go.'

The girl looked up, and there was her first boyfriend. He was very skinny as
he suffered from malnutrition and neglect.

Greatly grieved, the girl said, 'I should have taken much better care of you when
I had the chance!'

In truth, you have four boyfriends in your lives:

Your fourth boyfriend is your body. No matter how much time and effort you lavish in making it look good, it will leave you when you die.

Your third boyfriend is your possessions, status and wealth. When you die, it will all go to others.

Your second boyfriend is your family and friends. No matter how much they have been there for you, the furthest they can stay by you is up to the grave.

And your first boyfriend is your spirit. Often neglected in pursuit of wealth, power and pleasures of the world.

However, your spirit is the only thing that will follow you wherever you go.

Cultivate, strengthen and cherish your spirit now, for it is the only part of you that will follow you to the throne of God and continue with you throughout Eternity.

Which boyfriend do you LOVE the most? Nurture? Spend time with? Lavish upon?

Your heavenly Father so longs for your spirit to be one with His. He never loses His vision for whom He designed you to be, even if you have fed the wrong boyfriends, and starved the right one.

So, in this season when we celebrate love, give your spirit the greatest gift of all ~ you!

The throne of God, full of mercy, grace, love, goodness, compassion, kindness and forgiveness, will seem closer than you think ~ for eternity is now.

The Holy Spirit is waiting for yours....the PERFECT LOVE, the PERFECT VALENTINE!

An Offer I COULD Refuse

2010-01-24T21:13:00.009-05:00

So, I had an interesting proposition pop up recently.

We received a letter from a "location scout" for a movie that is being filmed in our area this Spring. (They liked the look of the outside of the house ~ supposed to take place in New England and our house is traditional, red brick).

Curious, I thought it would be fun to explore further. Since my niece's boyfriend is in the business (Apollo 13 and Blindside), I called him and he said he knew her, everything was legit, and gave me some coaching.

I called her and we chatted and she said to e-mail her and she would come out and look at the house.

After we hung up, I thought I'd better find out more about the movie.

I "googled" it, and everything came to a S.C.R.E.E.C.H.I.N.G halt.

Here is what I find out:

New Line has picked up the Farrelly brothers comedy "Hall Pass" from turnaround from Fox, signing up Owen Wilson to topline the picture. Jason Sudeikis is also in negotiations to co-star.

The story centers on a married couple who find themselves in a lull in their marriage and just going through the motions. The wife then gives her husband (Wilson) a "hall pass," a free ticket to engage in extramarital encounters. Sudeikis would play the guy's best friend, who also gets a free pass.

The movie begins production Feb. 23 in Atlanta.

With the Bible being my plumbline and my compass, and knowing God's heart on this, I knew immediately that this was something I could not and should not pursue.

Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure,... ~ Hebrews 13:4

Of course, I have no idea how the movie ends ~ does the "Hall Pass" allow them to live happily ever after? But, the END certainly does NOT justify the means.

So, needless to say, I did not e-mail her.

It will be interesting to see which house they end up choosing.

Not ours ~ "But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:15

(Please know that this is JUST not right for our family ~ for whatever family that chooses to participate...I wish you nothing but the best.)

Recipe for the New Year

2010-01-02T12:52:00.057-05:00

Take twelve beautiful, full-grown months;
see that they are thoroughly cleaned from....any and old transgressions of ~
bitterness,
strife,
malice,
rancor,
hate,
jealousy
Scrub them completely from any clinging impurities of....
spite,
picking off all specks of ....
pettiness
foolishness
empty conceit
idols
self

....in order that these months ahead are unhindered from the past, so that they are as FRESH and CLEAN as when they came from HEAVEN'S great "PANTRY of TIME.

Cut these months into batches of thirty or thirty-one equal parts (February, accordingly.)

Do not attempt to lump the batches together, but prepare one day at a time, as follows:

One part QUIET TIME with the Lord (preferably in the morning)
One part READING of GOD'S WORD (preferably in the morning)
One part LISTENING for GOD'S DIRECTION (preferably in the morning)
All parts PRAYER
All parts OBEDIENCE
All parts LOVE
ALL parts FAITH
ALL parts HOPE
ALL parts HUMILITY
ALL parts PATIENCE
ALL parts KINDNESS
ALL parts GOODNESS
ALL parts GENTLENESS
ALL parts SELF-CONTROL
ALL parts FORBEARANCE
ALL parts REJOICING
ALL parts THANKSGIVING

Next, spice up this recipe with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and compassion. Dollop in a teaspoon of whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, of good repute, excellence, and praise. A dash of laughter, a pinch of fun, a sprinkling of friends, and a smidgen of tears and silence are important additions.

Stir vigorously with Jesus' forgiveness, freedom,
joy, peace, comfort, mercy and grace.

Place in a bowl of GOD'S FULL ARMOR, and bake continually with PRAYER.

.

Serve with a warm portion of gratitude and a wonderful over-flowing cup of GOD'S GLORY for the year ahead, and may His favor flavor your every day with blessings beyond measure.

(I adapted this from a devotional
I read 1-2-10 by Harold M. Smythe)

Calendar Girl

2009-10-30T10:40:00.017-04:00

I LOOOOVE calendars!

As each month rolls into the next, I relish the flipping of each page.

I have them ALL over my house.

Come December 26th, I am out the door ~ not to get merchandise bargains....but to get half-price calendars. Yippee!

Here are the ones I am enjoying this year:

This one I have in my dressing room that I look at while putting on make-up and blow- drying my hair.

This one I have on the back of my door to the bathroom. I see this one alot.

This one I have on my bathroom mirror. A girl can dream while she's brushing her teeth, right?

This one my husband bought me for Christmas and I have in my laundry room to keep up with the dogs' medicine.

This one I use as a diary to record my days' doings.

This one I have over my desk, so as I wait for my things to get printed....I can revel in the glory of God's creation and creativity.

This one I have by my bedroom chair because it warms the cockles of my heart.

There is also the ones I use for marking my schedule. They are ministries that are close to my heart:

Wycliffe Bible Translators and Hope Now Ministries.

After the year is up, I will keep these and pray over them.

As I matter of fact, I have a hard time throwing away any of my old calendars....sometimes I use them to put on packages or for craft projects.

Time.

Marking time. How truly fleeting it is. Tomorrow I turn over a new page ~ where do the old page go?

Billy Graham writes: “Our days are numbered. One of the primary goals in our lives should be to prepare for our last day. The legacy we leave is not just in our possessions, but in the quality of our lives. What preparations should we be making now? The greatest waste in all of our earth, which cannot be recycled or reclaimed, is our waste of the time that God has given us each day.”

Time is one of our most precious commodities. A remarkable gift from God.... given to us to use it as we choose, with no strings, no caveats. Ideally, we would choose to use it to glorify Him. How I hope that I somehow do.....despite the time I have wasted. May God restore the years the locust has eaten to glorify Him, and....Lord, just like Moses I pray ~ Teach me to number my days, that I may gain a heart of wisdom. May I be wise in my time management and all matters that concern You.

Yes, I am a "Calendar Girl." I want them to help me to number my days.

RICE and LICE

2009-08-11T18:40:00.047-04:00

Well, Labor Day is just around the corner....and, as usual, summer flew by.

It was a good summer.

Jim finished his chemo, and the PET SCAN was clear!!! Praising God, the GREAT PHYSICIAN, and thanking Him for His mercy and grace.

For me, it was a low-key summer, and I LOVED it. A few trips, here and there, but for the most part ~ HOME....where I like to be.

In May, we went to PA for a family wedding....saw lots of people I have not seen in Y.E.A.R.S. ~ so, that's always fun. Got to spend time with my Grandmother, 103 years old. I fed her, I combed her hair, I rubbed lotion on her, I laughed with her, and I sang and danced with her. She was gone a week later. What a GRACIOUS gift for God to give me one last time with her. I usually don't visit PA until later in the summer. So, thanks, Justin and Tina, for planning your wedding when you did. It also happened to be Mother's Day weekend. I haven't been with my Mother on Mother's Day in probably close to 30 years. So, we had a special event. I invited a group of women, who mean A LOT to me and my family....for tea. We went to Abigail's Tea Room in Reading. It was a delightful afternoon and a very rare occasion.

L. to R.: my Mom, Sara Beth, Sis.... my next-door-neighbor while growing up and like a second Mom, and Meg.

L. to R.: my Aunt Ruthie, my sister, Kathy, family friend, Denise, my niece Tammy, my Aunt Kay, and my cousin, Deb

The end of May, we went to Pullman, WA for another special event. My husband had commissioned a bronze sculpture of our niece, Corinne, in conjunction with her memorial scholarship. The first scholarship was being awarded since we lost Corinne to cancer almost two years ago. She was a senior in high school. The artist, Jeff Wolf, drove something like 14 hours to come to the "unveiling," which took place right before the awards ceremony for scholarships. His speech was so incredibly moving. He explained how Corinne's spirit touched him so very deeply, and how much it meant for him to do the sculpture of her.

Wanda and Matt (Corinne's mom and brother) came to visit last week. We went to the beach for a few days, and had fun playing games.

My girls, however, had a much busier summer.

Sara Beth went to Honduras on a mission trip, to "love on" some children at an orphanage.

She also was a counselor for a camp for children with cancer.

Meg went to China for six weeks. This, my child, who is a very picky eater. Thank the good Lord for rice....it sustained her.

Both had very interesting, eye-opening experiences.

Meg came back from East Asia telling tales of an extremely different culture, and with beautiful pearls.

Sara Beth returned with some very poignant tales, too; but unfortunately...she also returned with lice.

UGH!!!!!! Bless her heart! That has been quite a journey. We have managed to go twenty-three years without the PESTS....and NOW she got caught.

Unfortunately, we had to "put down" our dog, Abigail last week. She was a sweetie. So, that was tuff.

Abigail making herself cozy on top of my suitcase while I pack.

So, that sorta wraps up our summer in a nutshell.

Well ~

Summer '09,
Was one of a kind.
One ate lots of rice,
and the other got lots of lice!!!

Hope you had a nice summer.

Blessings and love,

Becky

Peonies and Parades

2009-05-25T07:06:00.004-04:00

Small town America. Summertime. Doesn't get any better than that. Starting with Memorial Day......

Peonies were in bloom, and a profusion filled our yard. Their lush heads generous with layer after layer of beauty and grace. From the palest of pink to the deepest of fuchsia, the glorious shades and hues decorating the end of May. The fragrance was fraught with the promise of that same beauty and grace being infused into our own lives, romanticizing the summer that lay ahead.

Our town honored the selfless sacrifices made by those who gave their lives for our country, and ultimately....us with a parade. The route started on my street and ended cross-town at the cemetery with a touching service.

I was a majorette in the band. I loved the Memorial Day parade. Creak. Slam. Bang. I was in parade formation. No having to drive to the school. No having to get on the school bus and be transported. No down time. No waiting around.

The parade route was festive with the American flag proudly displayed and waved, and lots of fun as familiar faces lined the streets reveling in the excitement of a marching band's beat and energy. Friends, family and neighbors yelling my name made it even sweeter.

The destination, however, was sobering. Solemn, as we entered the cemetery. Remembering....what the parade was about. Too many lives, cut short, in order for us to have lives lived long....lives blanketed in the peace of freedom and boundless in the joy of liberty. Prayers and tributes commemorating their ultimate selflessness were rendered...lest we forget:

Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

THANKS FOR YOUR LOVE, FALLEN SOLDIERS. WE REMEMBER AND ARE SO VERY APPRECIATIVE!

I marched those two miles gladly, and the peonies were happy to make the trip to the cemetery as well.....for we always adorned the family grave sites on Memorial Day with the lavish blossoms, in honor of the lavish love they gave by serving our country ~ John Isaac Reeser and John Hunter Reeser....we have not forgotten.

Tapestry of Friendship Under the Tuscan Sun

2009-04-21T17:26:00.005-04:00

There are tapestries all over Italy rich with color and content, but none more beautiful than the one the true Master Weaver wove one glorious week under the Tuscan sun ~ a tapestry of friendship.

For my 50th birthday, my husband gave me a Girls' Getaway to one of my favorite places on earth ~ Tuscany, Italy. The group consisted of me, my daughters, my sister, my cousin, and eight girlfriends.

It was idyllic. Truly. A week of stunning beauty all around us and beauty from within our group; as fourteen women's hearts were intricately woven together by threads of love, respect, friendship, laughter, and shared experiences into a striking tapestry more splendid than any medieval masterpiece we were privileged to see. This tapestry was interlaced with old filaments from childhood with my sister, aunt and cousin, contemporary fibers from many different friendships, some of which spanned thirty years, and of course, the distinct and strong strings of a mother-daughter bond. All of these strands were hemmed in with a brand new thread ~ our tour guide, Leo (pronounced Lay-o).

A new friendship was instantly fabricated. Leo fell in love with us and we with him.

A movie buff, Leo dubbed us his "Steel Magnolias." He was so intrigued and inspired by the deep, real, abiding friendships among our ladies, much like M'Lynn, Ouiser, Clairee, and Annell. He commented time and time again on how extraordinarily special our friendships were and even relayed our wonderful relationships to his own friends.

That was six years ago. Time erodes our connection and continents separate us; however, our friendship has endured.

Here is an excerpt of an e-mail I recently received from Leo ~

"Last night I saw on TV a very nice American movie, HOW TO MAKE AN AMERICAN QUILT, starring Anne Bancroft and Ellen Burstyn among others - what a jolly good film. It reminded me of our friendship, we may be miles away but we're so close in our hearts. You all really changed my life, had a great impact, I think that things do happen not just by chance, maybe somebody, UP THERE, had our paths crossing, don't you think so dear Becky? I do...

TAKE CARE, A BIG HUG TO ALL MY DEAR, DEAR, LOVED STEEL MAGNOLIAS

Ciao

Leonardo

P.s.
As I was writing about our paths crossing, a beautiful, warm, sun ray just got inside my room....

Thinking of you all....always"

Under the Tuscan sun, the real Son shone through radiating His love with gossamer strands of the Holy Spirit weaving a tapestry of friendship, old and new.

Visit the adorable, talented gals at http://anneandmay.com/?p=1132 for other celebrations of friendship.

Strength for the "Do-Not-Die" Program

2009-04-18T08:08:00.002-04:00

Strength.

That is a word that epitomizes my Grandmother. She needed it. Little did she know the amount of strength she would need to run her race.

Physically ~

She almost died at childbirth with my mother at age 20.
She had three more children.
She raised her children during the Great Depression.
She sold candy door to door when she became a single mom at a time when they were virtually non-existent.
She took care of her bedridden sister for many years.
She helped raise her granddaughter so her son and daughter-in-law could establish their business.
She worked in her son's restaurant until she was in her 80's.
And I'm sure there's a lot more of which I am not aware.

Emotionally ~

She lost one of her daughters at age four tragically to electrocution.
Her house burned.
Her husband left her for another woman.
And I'm sure there's a lot more of which I am not aware.

Spiritually ~

Her body ravaged with age from decades of living, I "yelled" in her ear, "Life is hard, but God is good."

Without skipping a beat, and an instant nodding of her head, she replied with much conviction, "Yes, He is merciful."

Anna Virginia Yocum Moore's endurance is extraordinary.

Her spirit and humor still intact, seemingly indomitable.

Easter Sunday, as I talked to my mother,

"How's Grandmom?"

"She's good."

"Does she know it's Easter?"

"I told her. She wanted to sing "In Your Easter Bonnet." So, we did."

One day not too long ago, she told my sister that she thought the nursing home was trying to get rid of her. Kathy reassured her that they are not.

"Well," she said, "you better bring me the Vermont Country Store catalog so I can order some new nighties."

One day, as my Aunt Ruthie was wheeling her down the hall of the nursing home, she laughingly said, "Pull in to one of these closets, so I can 'kick the bucket.' "

Although she did not "sign up" and is more than ready to go be with the Lord, she has declared:

"I must be on the 'DO NOT DIE' program."

I can understand why she thinks that.

She will be 104 on her next birthday in August.

Dear Grandmom,

You don't need new nighties from the Vermont Country Store.
You are clothed with strength and dignity.
Your fortitude and gracious demeanor with which you lived all of your 37,595 + days, without complaint or self-pity, is more beautiful than the most dazzling gown ever made.
You can rejoice at the days to come knowing you have left me with that legacy which I hope to exemplify as well, pass on to my children, and then to their children.

Thank you for all you've done for me and all you've been to me.

Happy Mother's Day....for the 83rd time!!!!

I love you more than words can express,

Becky

Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future. Proverbs 31:25

I DON'T IRON and I ABHORE WRINKLES.....

2009-02-02T17:18:00.000-05:00

.....so, what's my secret?

A garment steamer.

They are so easy and fabulous.

I don't hate to iron, but a steamer is SO much more convenient.

It is a slight investment, but trust me......worth every penny!

Blessings and love,

Becky

2009-01-26T11:41:00.000-05:00

I am a human-"be" ing. Most of the people I know are human-"do"-ers.

I know that God made me that way, but in this culture in which we live, it is not looked upon too favorably and I struggle with the embarrassment of it.

For example, I enjoy having very long Quiet Times in the morning.....particularly Saturday. My husband will shout upstairs and ask me what I am doing after a few hours. Although he is very understanding and does not negate that time in any way, I still feel guilty that I am not "up, and doing something."

So, I struggle with that.

My personality dictates a lot of "down-time" between my "do-ings." I don't think God wants us so over-"do"ing that it messes with us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. So, I try not to overbook. Again, in today's society....so hard to do, and for others, sometimes hard to understand.

There is also a fine line, with me, between "be-ing" and crossing over into laziness. So, I have to search myself and make sure I am not using my temperament as an excuse or cope-out. I don't want to displease Him and waste my time and my life ---- I know I've already done way too much of that....living selfishly. I struggle with that everyday.

I'm trying to focus on "more of Him, and less of me," so hopefully, I can be true to Him and to who God has called me to be, and what He has called me to do.....

without feeling guilty about what I think the world wants me to do.

Blessings and love,

Becky

Inaugural Post

2008-09-25T17:48:00.000-04:00

Howdy ya'll,

This is a test.

Testing. Testing. 1. 2. 3. 4.

Well, I've been wanting to start blogging for going on two years.

I'm finally diving in.

Hope I don't drown.