faith of a single mom

2012-01-07T11:28:00.000-06:00

It's a new year! And a time to remind myself that it's never too late to dream! I decided the best way to accomplish new things is to set a goal of doing something creative every day. So far that has included painting a couple of ceramic pots and playing around in photoshop. Not sure if that qualifies, since what, in days past, took hours and days to create, now just takes a click of a button. But it's fun and good for the soul, anyway.

The last few months of this year were a time of change. It began with the "knowing" that I had to find a way to quit my second job. With the holidays coming up, my hours would get later and later, keeping me away from home until 10:00 or later the nights I worked. Just not acceptable. I knew I needed to be home. My heart was always torn when I was at work, wanting to be home, even though I enjoyed my job and the creativity it involved. So, one day during a break, a rare quiet moment, I sat down and prayed. The verse that immediately popped into my mind was Proverbs 3:5-6. I knew my heart and spirit were deeply troubled by my dilemma and as I thought on these verses, I wasn't sure how to interpret them in my situation, but I began to feel my trust increasing. It was still based on faith in a result I couldn't see, but I was ready to trust that God was working.

My trust was tested in more than one situation at a time. My parents moved into an assisted living home in Tennessee, close to my brother's family. This was such a life changing experience for me and required TRUST in God working His plan in their lives, not mine.

And then, an opportunity showed itself, that I didn't even recognize at first, but then realized that this was my chance to quit my second job, budget out my resources, and TRUST! So, with trepidation. . . I did! And each day was filled with a trusting so real it seemed tangible. It still does. Just being. Being at home. Time at home. I have learned that time is money. Time has a value that money can't buy. This decision was life changing as well.

Shortly after this change, I was transferred to a different school. So, I've been learning how to work with different students with different challenges. Trying to TRUST that I'm where I belong at the moment.

Praying that through my attempt at creativity, I can find a way to support my spending more time at home.
Isn't it funny how even when it comes to doing the things we love, it requires discipline? So, that is my goal, to discipline myself daily, to do one thing I love!

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T19:32:00.000-06:00

My New Year's quote for the past few years, has been
"We will open the book. It's pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves.
The book is called Opportunity and it's first chapter is New Year's Day."

This year I think it will be a little different. Each morning, as I look upon the blank page I
think I will wait and see what God writes on the page first, what He lays before me each day,
what He presents to me as "Opportunity".

This year has been one of trusting. Learning to trust and then being given opportunities to rely on that trust.

Proverbs 3:5~6 have become so ingrained in my spirit, thoughts and heart that the words will forever be a part of me!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Do not rely on your own insight
In all your ways acknowledge Him
And He will make your paths straight.

Some days, just by thinking on the words, saying them over and over, brought the trust I needed for the moment, for the day.

I love this time of year. After the emotions that Christmas brings about, I savor the quietness of the days that follow. And then we see the end drawing near. We can close out the old year, and wake up to a new year. Our God is faithful and is beside us regardless of the time of day, or the day or year, but for us, it's helpful to think of new beginnings.

My new devotional book, "Jesus Calling", says,

"As this year draws to a close, receive My Peace. This is still your deepest need, and I, your Prince of Peace, long to pour Myself into your neediness. My abundance and your emptiness are a perfect match."

December 31

Now, I can't wait to read what it says in the morning~

The first day of our new year~

I love new beginnings.

I love that our God is a God of . . .

forgiveness

new beginnings

grace

and second chances.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

I Will Be Here For You

2011-07-18T21:03:00.003-05:00

Isaiah 43:2
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.
Isaiah 43:1-3

Single Mom Devotional

2011-07-18T20:48:00.002-05:00

Here we go again! (I like to repost this from time to time as a reminder of where I've been and where I am going).

If you are a single mom, regardless of the path that brought you here, this is for you..so you can know that you do not have to walk alone.

For all of the women who share the role of single mom, including me, we belong to a very large group of women who share the same heart, the same struggles and the same needs.

In learning how to be single, sometimes we attempt to attach ourselves to another human being, hoping they will be able to meet our deepest needs and heal our hurts. We miss the feeling that we are part of a whole. In our “neediness” we think another human being might hold the answer. So we reach out to relationships that only pull us farther away from where we need to be and bring more hurt into our lives.

The most important truth I can share with you is this. . .

There is someone who I have fallen in love with. I am committed to Him and love Him with all my heart. I am not alone anymore. He meets every need I could ever have. He never leaves my side. He is faithful. He is strong enough to protect and provide for my children and myself. Spending time with Him every day has become my greatest joy. I have learned that I can trust Him in any situation. Regardless of how impossible the world may see my plight, He can bring blessing from it. He has shown me that the greatest blessings in my life have come from my greatest difficulties.

He is my God and my Savior Jesus Christ. He loves me. He loves you. There is nothing we have done or will do that can change that love. We have made mistakes, we have made wrong choices. Those we loved have made mistakes and wrong choices. These do not limit God and His power to restore. His grace and mercy are greater than our weakness. For it is in our greatest struggles that we see Christ. Only His pain on the cross is enough to save us from our greatest pain.

When we get to the place in our lives when there is no one else, no place else to go, nothing left to believe, Jesus is there waiting. His arms are stretched out to us in love and forgiveness. We can find Jesus in His Word, in the books we read, in the music we listen to, and always in our heart. I found that after years of wondering if I could ever be welcomed back into God's arms, I was the one who had looked away. All I had to do was look to Him. My eyes met His and He was right there with me. No human being could ever be as close.

"There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
Romans 8:1

Life is an Adventure!!

2011-05-27T07:39:00.000-05:00

This morning I have but a few moments to write my thoughts. Listening to God's whispers, remembering fading dreams, thankful for life's second chances, listening, listening, inspiration from all directions~

Listen. . . . . . . . . . . Can you hear it?

Stepping out on faith. . . . hope. . . .

2011-02-12T07:53:00.000-06:00

With the kind You show Yourself kind,

With the blameless You show Yourself blameless;

With the pure You show Yourself pure,

And with the perverted You show Yourself astute.

And You save an afflicted people;

But Your eyes are on the haughty whom You abase.

For You are my lamp, O LORD;

And the LORD illumines my darkness.

For by You I can run upon a troop;

By my God I can leap over a wall.

As for God, His way is blameless;

The word of the LORD is tested;

He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.

For who is God, besides the LORD?

And who is a rock, besides our God?

God is my strong fortress;

And He sets the blameless in His way.

He makes my feet like hinds' feet,

And sets me on my high places.

He trains my hands for battle,

So that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.

You have also given me the shield of Your salvation,

And Your help makes me great.

You enlarge my steps under me,

And my feet have not slipped.

2 Samuel 22:26-37

You Are My Hiding Place

2011-02-09T07:02:00.000-06:00

Last night, while reading in Psalm 91, this song kept playing in my mind. So this morning I had to find it to listen to.

I love God's second chances. We have another snow day today~ my second chance to actually get something done around my house while watching the snow outside! I have a house full of boxes in need of being put away, sorted through, or thrown away. So, this is my day.

I pray that this song fills your heart with peace, and blesses you, regardless of what your day holds, or the things you may be afraid of.

Blessings

Prayer for Today

2011-01-05T06:58:00.000-06:00

My prayer for today ~

Dear Lord,

Give me the eyes to see your purposes all around me.

Help me to see in the simplest of things, the blessings that I can be to others and the blessings they are to me.

Let me be faithful in my heart's attitude and my mind's thoughts, in the words I say and the things I do.

Guide me on my life's path and give me eyes to see your path before me.

Let me be a faithful guide to others on their life's path.

Take delight in the LORD,
and he will give you the desires of your heart

Psalm 37:4

Happy New Year to Everyone!

2011-01-01T08:58:00.001-06:00

‎"We will open the book. It's pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and it's first chapter is New Year's Day."

Edith Lovejoy Pierce

I think I've begun a "new" New Year's tradition! Yesterday, on New Year's Eve, I took everything out of my closet, 12 years of dusty treasures, in boxes and bags. What once filled my closet, now fills my room! I have to admit, the only reason I did such a thing is because I will be having some plumbing work done under my house and the only way they can get there is through the floor of my closet!! Now that's a good house plan and design for you!

Anyway, I usually just put it all back without sorting anything first, but. . . . this year . . . I have resolved to sort through each and every box and paper and bag before putting them back in my closet! It's really sort of fun to find memories long forgotten. Of course some things are better thrown away and forgotten, but that's fun too.

My daughter and I saw the new Narnia movie yesterday as well, and I left the theatre in tears! It was sooo good!! I would really love to see it again. Aslan has such a powerful presence. I love how they portrayed the symbolism and truths.

Kids are still sleeping, I might sneak out the door for a walk around the block and back to do some more ORGANIZING!!!

Have a wonderful day all~and have a blessed New Year~

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-28T08:51:00.000-06:00

Before December flies away in a couple of days I thought I should acknowledge it's presence at least! It always amazes me, how after all of the hustle and bustle of preparing, that Christmas Day always has a way of redeeming itself.~

Thanksgiving Thoughts

2010-11-23T16:39:00.000-06:00

Preparing for my kids to fly home tonight, and for the busy week ahead! Cleaning house, planning meals, probably the same thing you're doing these days. Trying to keep things simple and enjoy the day at home.

A few days ago I came upon some verses that were new to me, so I wanted to share them.

Psalm 143:10

Teach me to do Thy will,
For Thou art my God
Let Thy good Spirit lead me on level ground.
For the sake of Thy name, O Lord, revive me.

and. . .

Psalm 145:14-20

The Lord sustains all who fall,
And raises up all who are bowed down.
The eyes of all look to Thee
And Thou dost give them their food in due time.
Thou dost open Thy hand,
And dost satisfy the desire of every living thing.

The Lord is righteous in all His ways,
And kind in all His deeds.
The Lord is near to all who call upon Him,
To all who call upon Him in truth.
He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him,
He will also hear their cry and will save them.
The Lord keeps all who love Him. . .

These words blessed me and I hope they bless you as you read them while you prepare for the holiday ahead. The leaves are beautiful even down here in Texas although the weather is still pretty warm. Still have to bake some goodies to have on hand when my kids arrive.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Attitude!

2010-11-16T07:09:00.000-06:00

‎"The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90 % how I react to it." - Charles Swindoll. When I don't have a good attitude, I can exchange it at the foot of the cross. The cross of Christ puts everything else in perspective.

The Single Mom's Devotional by Carol Floch

Sunday Morning

2010-11-14T11:47:00.001-06:00

I woke up to a light and airy, bright and sunshiny, free and easy. . . Sunday morning. No schedule to keep, no demands to be met, just time to breathe and be~ My car is being worked on so I can't go anywhere. Yippee!

At 7:24 this morning my dogs wanted out, so I gingerly walked down the hallway, into the day, to let them outside. I thought to myself, "I'll just sit at my computer until they're ready to come back inside and then, back to bed!". Upon checking my emails, I discovered a friend had left a comment on my blog. My blog. My blog!

So, I've been here, becoming re-aquainted with my own blog and the blogs I've grown to know and love! The house was quiet until about 9:00 when my son and his friend woke up. After a big, unexpected hug, my son asked " what's for breakfast?" Ordinarily that question would have annoyed me, but this morning, I joyfully prepared French toast on which they added powdered sugar and maple syrup.

I've enjoyed cup after cup of coffee, looking out my window at the leaves on trees, the sunlight breaking through the branches, and contemplating my life. Somehow I've moved away from the things that I love. Writing. . ., photography. . ., and just pondering in general. Thank you for allowing me to do a little writing and pondering this crisp November morning.

Still working as a Teacher's Assistant, unable to find an open door there. Maybe I misunderstood the direction I was to take when I first headed this way. I love the kids, but find that I'm a circle trying to fit into a square hole again. Hmmm. Could it be that I need to work on straightening those edges?

Sometimes I feel I have outgrown the title of my blog. However I am definitely a mom, still single and can't live one moment without my faith. So, I guess I'll keep it!

Have a wonderful Sunday~it's good to be back!

Writing. . . .

2010-09-11T08:35:00.002-05:00

Writing, writing, writing. . .

Facebook is becoming a place where I can too easily share small thoughts, however, my blog gives me an outlet for my spirit. We need time for that~ maybe I'll have more of that in the future! I'm going to try and find little nooks and crannies of time. But, for now, I'm enjoying that second cup of coffee and heading off for my Saturday at work! It's a good thing I enjoy my job!

Wishing everyone here a wonderful weekend.

Life is good

2010-04-14T19:42:00.007-05:00

This rosebush my daughter gave me one year is blooming beautifully!

The pink and white flowers we planted in a pot on my front porch, but I don't remember what they are.

These irises were planted by the original owner of my home and bloom every year. This year I think is the best!

March. . . brrrr

2010-03-01T10:22:00.003-06:00

I just had to add some color! I'm giving myself a day off today. Well, not really, lots to catch up on around home. Laundry. . .mostly. Sometimes we just need time and quiet. It's a rainy day here. The grass is turning green and is about to need mowed. I've been learning alot lately about

* boundaries

it's ok to have them!

communicating them takes practice

* avocados

they're good for your wrinkles and for your health!

* courage

acting in spite of fear or the feeling that everything has to be perfect first!

wish me luck in acting with courage in my teaching job search for next year.

Well, better get back to folding the laundry. Have a great week!

But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.

2 Corinthians 12:9

Does This Look Like Texas?

2010-02-25T07:10:00.006-06:00

I know all of you folks up north may be tired of the cold and snow, but here in Texas. . . I'll take all the snow I can get! These were taken a couple of weeks ago when we received our record snow fall of about 10 inches. Beautiful!

Beautiful Day Today

2010-02-02T06:45:00.002-06:00

It's dark outside my window. I'm still on my first cup of coffee. I've just visited some of my wonderful blog friends posts and I've decided it's going to be a beautiful day today!

I wish you BLESSINGS!!

A New Day

2010-01-30T21:35:00.005-06:00

I'm sitting here on this cold, gray Saturday morning, happy to have time to write, happy in the place God has brought me to, happy for God's new work of healing in this new place, happy for the gift of new people in my life, happy to have these thoughts finally materialize on paper. Well, virtual paper that is.

So. . . we go about our lives, reluctantly climbing out of bed after a few snooze alarms in the mornings, we drink our coffee, hurry off to work, then hurry home, hurry off to work, hurry home, fix dinner, help with homework, give a few hugs, say goodnight~ sleep tight~ love you~ see you in the morning, do the dishes, wash some clothes, check emails, check in on everyone on facebook, watch some news, climb into bed and read Psalm 91, praying for my kids, and sending prayers of thankfulness for the love of our family and our home and all that God is providing.

We live inside the walls we've built to keep our hearts safe and our children safe. I go only where He wants me to go, walking carefully as to not stray off of the path He's set before me, keeping my children close in thought, prayer and focus.

Then, there comes a time when you believe God is preparing you for something new. Even your kids encourage you to step out of the safe and comfortable and take a chance. God even breaks out a few bricks in the wall and lets you see through to a new place. Does God want me to step out there? No, I'm safer in here where it's predictable. Another glimpse into the possibilities outside makes me wonder. Not outside of God's plan and purpose, but outside of my cocoon. Maybe His purposes are greater, maybe He has been strengthening my wings so I could attempt to fly. It's a slow process breaking out of that sheltering place, peeking out of what is known and what is safe, allowing God to heal and give courage.

The process of breaking out of the cocoon is what builds a butterflies' strength, so her wings are strong enough to carry her into the new world that is out there.

I love analogies and I love getting lost in words and thoughts. Pondering what God is doing and then when the light breaks through, sometimes just for a brief instant, I'm filled with wonder.

P.S. After writing this, I saw the clock, 9:11 am. I still had to take a shower, wash my hair, do the dishes and get to work by 10:00. So, I hurriedly started unloading the dishwasher and in the process bumped a glass against the kitchen counter. Broken glass went all over the floor. I thought good grief, now I'll never make it. So I swept up the glass and realized as I finished the dishes that if the glass hadn't broken, my floor would not be clean. Hmm. . . do I hear an analogy coming?

Thin Places by Mary E. DeMuth

2010-01-30T20:47:00.010-06:00

I'm reading a new book right now, Thin Places, by Mary E. DeMuth. It speaks of God's healing and coming near to us in the thin places of our lives. I find, as I read, that I have many thin places of my own that God continues to shine His light through to bring new life and healing in ways I could never imagine. Mary DeMuth opens her heart in such a way as to allow us to see ourselves reflected in her words.

"My internal messiness is a thin place for me where I realize God loves messy. He delights in my raggedy ways. Why? Because He redeems my messes. Cleans them up. Polishes them until they shine so bright the reflection of Jesus smiles back. Paul affirms this. He says, "We have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves" 2 Corinthians 4:7

Clean shiny folks don't have the sacred privilege of understanding God's greatness or power because they're so full of their own beauty. Messy folks understand the metaphor of an earthen vessel, a clay pot, a canister that holds refuse. And, in that humble state of mess-dom, we welcome the beauty of Jesus within.

So, yeah, I'm a raggedy mess. But God loves the socks off me anyway. I'm a cracked pot, a vessel God shines His loveliness through. Thank goodness for the cracks; otherwise how would God's glory shine out?"

Thin Places
Page 99

It's a New Year! (almost)

2009-12-31T09:49:00.001-06:00

"We will open the book. It's pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and it's first chapter is New Year's Day."

Edith Lovejoy Pierce

2009-12-23T08:13:00.000-06:00

It is Christmas every time

you let God love others

through you. . .

Mother Theresa

Only Two More Days~

2009-12-23T07:39:00.000-06:00

This is a reminder to myself that if and when I feel over stressed this holiday season,

I promise to stop, take a deep breath, and say to myself the words, "everything in love". If love is my focus, it brings a peace to my heart and things seem to come into focus. (at least it's worked before!)

Look to the LORD and his strength,

seek his face always.

Psalm 105:4

May the Lord bless your families this Christmas season.

May He hold you in the palm of His hand.

the Christmas spirit... are you lacking?

2009-12-21T11:43:00.009-06:00

The Christmas spirit. . . .

I've been thinking alot on this lately, what it is exactly, is it the same for all? When I was young, I always waited for it. I waited on that warm, fuzzy feeling brought on by Christmas lights and cookies baking in the oven and decorating the tree. I didn't give it alot of thought back then. I always knew it would arrive just in time to go out and buy presents. Some years it was Christmas Eve before I felt moved to go buy presents for my family. No worries...life was simpler then.

Christmas can be a hard time for those who are lacking. Lacking in anything really~ family, friends, time, money . . .As I've grown older, a panic sets in at times, realizing I'm responsible for my family's Christmas and feeling inadequate.

Just a couple of weeks ago, I was watching the commercials on tv with increased cynicism. I found myself wondering who was behind all of this commercialism anyway. The baby Jesus was born in a simple barn, with hay for his bed. How does buying the latest gadget for our loved ones celebrate his birth? I felt no Christmas spirit. In fact with $4.49 in the bank to last another 4 days until payday I was seriously considering celebrating Christmas with no gifts. I was reading up about others who had accomplished this successfully and I was trying to come up with creative ideas for other things we could do. I felt peace in God's provision, but for the most part I was feeling very lacking. Lacking financially, and most of all, lacking in the Christmas spirit.

I'm sharing this only because maybe you have felt the same. I woke up the next morning and I had a message that one of my photos had sold. That was my first little encouragement that God hadn't forgotten about me! Then a couple of days later came more totally unexpected blessings that only God could have sent. I then had to reconcile my latest blessings with my recent thinking. The Christmas spirit was beginning to take over! I entered into that crazy crowd of people looking for just the right gift for their most special people. I didn't feel cynical, or hypocritical. I felt joy! Warm and fuzzy joy! It's Christmas!

"Where did this come from?", I analyzed. I felt God's love and His presence in my everyday doings. I felt peace and began to see things a little differently. Remember how we as children watched our parents prepare for Christmas and experienced the joy of opening our presents on Christmas morning. We in turn tried to imitate this gift giving in our small ways. Making gifts with paper, scissors, glue and glitter or going to the store and buying small gifts that felt like treasures in our small hands.

Well, isn't that what we're all doing at this wonderful season of the year? God gave us His son, His most precious gift. What were the wise men and the shepherd's reaction? They showered Him with gifts somehow sensing the treasure they had been given.

Yes, we will get caught up in a little bit of materialism, watching for the best prices and driving all over town for just the right color or size. We're merely children, giving to those we love, imitating our Father, who showers us with gifts. God sees us as we see our children. Running around trying to give back just as we have been given to.

So, give yourself the gift of Christmas. It's Ok! You don't have to spend a fortune that you don't have. Enter into the joy. The Christmas spirit will sneak up on you. Remember that what we're lacking at this time of the year seems magnified, but also the blessings ~ the simple gifts take on new and a greater meaning. Homemade goodies, hand made gifts, time with friends or your children. Take time for the simple things. Remember what a difference one day can make. Open your heart.

It occurrs to me, as I finish this, that all that I have and all that I am is because of that baby sleeping in the hay. Isn't that all that really matters?

Merry Christmas!

"God can pour on the blessings in astonishing ways so that you're ready for anything and everything, more than just ready to do what needs to be done. As one psalmist puts it,

He throws caution to the winds,
giving to the needy in reckless abandon.

His right-living, right-giving ways
never run out, never wear out.

This most generous God who gives seed to the farmer that becomes bread for your meals is more than extravagant with you. He gives you something you can then give away, which grows into full-formed lives, robust in God, wealthy in every way, so that you can be generous in every way, producing with us great praise to God. "

2 Corinthians 9:8-11

(Now go read my friend's The Bus Stop. I guess great minds think alike!)

December

2009-12-01T06:00:00.000-06:00

It's December!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T08:09:00.002-06:00

I wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!! We'll be headed to Oklahoma this afternoon. I've been enjoying getting my house in order and baking lots of banana bread.

I always wonder how the days know how to "look" just like Thanksgiving time. The air is crisp, the sun is shining brightly, the leaves and pecans are on the ground. . .

Over the river and through the woods, to Grandmother's house we go!

Love to all!

today

2009-11-02T09:18:00.004-06:00

I'm at home today with a "code in my dose". The sun is shining beautifully outside. I've been wishing for a whole day to spend at home to catch up on laundry and clutter but now that I'm home for a day I don't feel like doin' nuthin'!

Oh well. I guess we all need "nothing" days now and then. Maybe I'll go try to read a book and take a nap.

Hope you all are enjoying this November day!

A..a...a...a...Chooo!

Devotional

2009-10-21T21:00:00.004-05:00

We Do Need People

2009-10-21T20:45:00.004-05:00

Hi all,

Everytime I read my devotional for single moms (devotion of a single mom) I feel like something is missing. When I say that we don't need another human being, I mean that we can't look to another person to fix us and I'm referring to romantic relationships. Because the truth is, God created us to need other people. We need to be around strong women who depend on their faith daily and who have been through what we're going through. We need our families. We need to spend time talking with women who need our help in facing the struggles they're in.

We do need each other. So don't isolate yourself as you live life as a single mom. We were never meant to live in isolation. It's easier to be strong when we have people to hold us accountable. Find a Bible Study for women or single parents and you'll find out you aren't alone out there. Find a singles class who like to do fun things together and include the kids.

Life as a single parent does have it's difficulties, but it has it's joys and triumphs too. Remember the definition of courage: doing something in spite of being afraid. It's not the absence of fear, but acting through your fear. When you get to the other side you'll be a stronger, more courageous person! It's really rather exhilarating!

(and then maybe someday . . . a long way down the road. . .or maybe not. . .whatever God has in mind.)

Back to Nature

2009-10-04T21:28:00.006-05:00

~

We did have a great camping trip. Complete with tree climbing, swimming in the river, hiking, all the things a boy needs from time to time. For Mom, sitting back, listening to the locusts and crickets and birds, sleeping in a tent, just being surrounded by the healing power of nature. It's always surprising how a little time soaking up God's creation can calm and help to erase the little daily stresses and even the big ones. We had a little more warmth and sunshine than expected but overall we had a great time.

The evening we returned home, we watched the PBS special about our National Parks. My camping confidence renewed, we made plans to camp more often and see more of the natural beauty both nearby and far away someday. The show talked about how real God's presence is felt and the healing to our mind and spirit we experience when surrounded by nature. I had to agree!

We came home with a second walking stick so I now have my own for our next hike. Those things come in handy!

It's the Weekend!

2009-09-25T22:54:00.004-05:00

We're getting packed up to go camping tomorrow morning early. My son is bringing a friend he's known for 10 years and we're meeting my class from church. We'll be sleeping in tents and cooking outside and fishing and hiking. I'm looking forward to the quietness of nature. We're going to Dinosaur Valley State Park. There's a Creation Evidence Museum next door that I've always wanted to visit, so maybe we'll get to this time.

They have a river you can cross on foot. First you have to take off your shoes and socks and step over the rocks through the cool water. It's lots of fun! This photo was taken a few years ago. I'll share new pictures when we get back home.

I hope you all have a great weekend. I plan to enjoy my two days off! Yippee!

My heart this morning

2009-09-15T06:44:00.001-05:00

As the deer pants for streams of water,

so my soul pants for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.

Psalm 42:1-2

This is my heart this morning. I've got to run and get ready for work.

Blessings to all who stop by!

Trust in the Lord

2009-09-11T06:41:00.003-05:00

Trust God from the bottom of your heart,

don't try to figure out everything on your own.

Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go

He's the one who will keep you on track.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the LORD with all your heart

and lean not on your own understanding
in all your ways acknowledge him,

and he will make your paths straight.

You know, sometimes life doesn't make sense. Sometimes we feel a burden we can't carry on our own. Sometimes we feel that we're being asked to do something that is more than we are capable of. Even when we can't see what God is doing, we trust. We won't try to understand, we will simply look to God and listen for Him everywhere we go and in everything we do.

My heart trusts in you, Lord. I'm listening.

I wanna be good!

2009-09-02T06:38:00.004-05:00

The sweet children in my classroom are already teaching me lessons in faith and in life.

There is a little boy who when he realizes he's gotten off track and said or done something impulsively, something he knows he shouldn't have, he looks up at me with big eyes and says " was that mean?" "I don't wanna be bad", " I be good", " I wanna be good!", or some variation of that. I look him in the eyes and tell him "you are good" and get back to the lesson at hand. Sometimes it takes reassuring him more than once.

Last night I found myself praying about a situation and my heart was yearning, speaking to God with the same words, realizing my own foolishness, "I wanna be good, I wanna do right and listen to you, Lord" and in the silence I heard it. My own words echoing back to me. I heard God saying back to me "you are good. You are loved."

Thank you Lord for being there always.

"Never will I leave you

never will I forsake you."

Hebrews 13:5

Little Willow

2009-08-27T21:40:00.005-05:00

Bend, little willow

Wind's gonna blow you

Hard and cold tonight

Life, as it happens

Nobody warns you

Willow, hold on tight

.Nothing's gonna shake your love

Take your love away

No one's out to break your heart

It only seems that way...hey

Sleep little willow

Peace gonna follow

Time will heal your wounds

Grow to the heavens

Now and forever

Always came too soon.

Little willow

Nothing's gonna shake your love

Take your love away

No one's out to break your heart

It only seems that way...hey

Bend, little willow

Wind's gonna blow you

Hard and cold tonight

Life, as it happens

Nobody warns you

Willow, hold on tight

.Ahhh, little willow

New days and blessings

2009-08-26T06:13:00.006-05:00

Gee, it's been a long time since I have written! I've been missing all of you out there in blogland! It's been a busy time around here, moving my daughter off to college, getting my son ready to start 7th grade, beginning my new job, getting used to an emptier nest, enjoying my daughter's first visit back home for the weekend, and the start of school.

I love the sweet children in my class at the middle school. I'm a teacher's assistant in a classroom of 9 children with varied disabilities. The challenge right now is to discover what each child is capable of learning and what they already know. They are all such characters and completely unpredictable.

While I'm so thankful for God's provision for my daughter to go away to college, (for me that part is a pure miracle) I find myself asking Him to give her the strength to face feeling homesick at times and that she will find friendship that she is missing right now.

I'm thankful for my two jobs and for that regular paycheck that will start arriving September 15. I'm counting the days!

I'm thankful for my 25 year old son who is now living and working in Denver, Colorado. He is in the perfect job for a young man who loves adventure and is great working with people. He sells roofs to homeowners who live in areas damaged by severe storms. So in the past few years he's had the opportunity to live in in Orlando Florida, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Austin and now Denver. I'm so proud of him and his success.

I'm thankful for my 23 year old daughter who lives nearby and is patiently waiting for that marriage proposal. (Pray with me on that one) I won't be surprised if one day she just up and goes to law school and advances in politics. I'm very proud of the gracious young lady she is becoming.

I'm even thankful for my puppy who finds a new shoe to destroy every day!

Love you all! Have a great week!

Whirlwind

2009-08-09T17:12:00.007-05:00

Wow, what a week we've had and it's not over yet! I've seen God's hand at work in so many ways, just in the working together of the details and providing what was needed at the time. One week ago today, I sent Chad off to church camp for a week. Because Shannon had to be at Oklahoma State on Monday morning for sorority recruitment week, he went to stay at his older sister Suzannah's house on Sunday. He got to go fishing and swimming and then on Monday morning she drove him to church to catch the bus to camp!

In the meantime, we drove up to Stillwater, Oklahoma so that Shannon could be there bright and early Monday morning. The girls are staying in the dorm she will be in permanently so she actually got her permanent room assignment for this week too. Then I drove back home in time to celebrate Suzannah's 23rd birthday Tuesday. I then had a few days of empty nesting and working. I received a few heart wrenching phone calls from my homesick daughter but she made it through the week and had alot of fun.

Friday, the buses arrived with the church camp kids. My son had a wonderful week and couldn't wait to introduce me to the new friends he made. He can't wait until Sunday now. That's cool! Answered prayers there!

We drove back up to Stillwater yesterday, and after dropping Chad and our little dog Oscar off at Grandma and Grandpa's, I met up with Shannon to see her new sorority house and celebrate with her. I wasn't in one in college so this is all new to me. Since she's going off to another state without any of her friends from home, I'm praying this will give her a good place to belong. Because the week wasn't an easy one for her and the decisions were really difficult, this was a faith building time for her. She prayed that God would put her in the sorority that He wanted her in, that she was supposed to be in. When she received her invitation it was obvious to her and all who had been praying with her, that her prayers were answered. The house even has a beautiful little prayer room in it. Her aunt and cousin shared in the day with us and it just felt like a blessed day all around.

We left Chad with his grandparents for a few days and drove back home late last night. Today, I had the special treat of spending the afternoon with BOTH of my girls. We went antique shopping and just looking and had wonderful, rare girl time. It was especially special since Shannon is leaving this week to move into her dorm and get settled in for school to start next week on Monday.

Life is full of changes and new beginnings. I've seen God's hand rescue me and just give me the strength I needed for the moment many times this week. I've seen Him work in my kids lives. I've seen Him stretch time and money to get us where we needed to be.

Trust in the LORD and do good.

Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.

Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart

Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it.

He will bring forth your righteousness as the light

And your judgment as the noonday.

Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him.

Psalm 37:3-7

Thank you, Lord. Our days are in your hands.

2009-08-04T23:44:00.002-05:00

In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice,

in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.

Psalm 5:3

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone,

my hope comes from Him.

Psalm 62:5

My Grandma's House

2009-07-27T11:31:00.011-05:00

My Grandma loved her church.

She loved welcoming us into her home in the country, standing at her blue painted front door, graciously giving out hugs and "I wuv u's" to all of us grandkids. I haven't stepped inside her home for several years. When she moved into the nursing home, my mom and uncle were able to sell her house to eight members of my Grandma's church. They rented it to various tenants.

My Grandma's house was situated on acres of Oklahoma farmland. It was beautiful to this Oklahoma girl's eyes. There were chicken coops, hay barns, water troughs, a windmill, bird houses, red clay creekbeds winding for miles it seemed, leading to treasure troves of antique finds, acres of pastureland to explore. . . heaven on earth for this city girl and her little brother. Breakfasts of musk melon and toast with sorghum molasses, long summer walks with my Grandma through pastures to find treasures, old glass bottles or tools, we never knew what we might happen upon. Climbing down the steps into the damp basement to help with weighing eggs, or canning. Dinners of fried okra, sleeping upstairs with the windows open, watching and listening for the birds as the sun came up.

One of her bibles, with her name inscribed on the front, has been my treasure since she passed away several years ago. I'm always finding words she had written alongside and verses underlined. The embroidered birds I shared with you in a previous post were lovingly stitched by her hands.

We were in Oklahoma for a family reunion yesterday. On the way home, I decided to drive by my Grandma's house. I knew she gave some of her land to her church. I didn't realize they had already completed their new building across the pasture from her home. All of the creek beds were leveled and the trees were gone. The barns and windmill had disappeared as if some hand had brushed over the surface of the land. On a whim, I turned into her driveway. There was a man there removing the garage door. "They're tearing the house down tomorrow, so they wanted me to remove the door today", he says as we approach. Evidently black mold has made the home unlivable and so the church has decided to tear it down to build a parking lot.

It was like stepping into a moment in time that was meant to be. Walking into her home still filled with memories and love, tears filled my eyes as I ran my hand over the walls and doorways, remembering days and moments, sights and smells. I watched my own kids look around with awe, the realization of the history and meaning our memories held shining in their eyes. Members of the church had already removed all of the glass doorknobs. Dust and cobwebs filled the window sills and corners. Upstairs we found sloppily painted purple walls, and a poem painted into the closet where as children, we had played with the same antique toys enjoyed by my mom and uncle, left for a new generation of kids to discover.

Wanting to take something of these long lost memories with us to hold and keep, we were able to remove some handles from her cabinets, a window from the front door, and two beautiful solid wood doors. I know my Grandma would love the fact that people from miles around are worshiping God on her land. I know she isn't holding onto her home any longer. It's not needed where she is, but my heart still aches a little as I let go of it today.

My grandma loved her church. I hope the church treasures her gift for generations to come. (They'd better. I wonder how long this parking lot has been planned? Sorry, just the cynic coming out in me.)

p.s. Can you believe I forgot to take a picture? When I find an old one to scan I'll add it here!

Sunday Rain

2009-07-19T14:49:00.003-05:00

We arrived home from church today just in time to enjoy a little rain and thunder. Very refreshing, perfect for a Sunday afternoon.

A Walk in July

2009-07-18T09:34:00.018-05:00

The quiet morning drew me outside to spend some time walking and contemplating. There was enough of a breeze to breathe coolness into the start of the day!

Beautiful Texas Bluebonnets, right in my own flowerbed!

We bought the seeds as souvineers on a trip in the spring and they finally bloomed~

This little guy scampered along with me for awhile~

I was finally able to capture him with my close up setting. He's found a nut of some kind~

He scampered up a tree and is enjoying his find~

Bright eyed and bushy tailed~!

Beautiful Sunflowers this morning along the way!

And another. . .

Wow! What a Sunflower!

My huge Cottonwood tree towers over my rooftop. Even though some people think it doesn't count because it's just a Cottonwood, I love my tree!

Moss roses in my flower pot. I'm still enjoying this macro photography thing!

Have a wonderful Saturday!

Rest and Trust

2009-07-16T08:47:00.004-05:00

I'll be heading off to work here in a little while. I've watered my flowers and enjoyed my coffee. Just wanted to wish you all a happy day and that God will be with you in all you do. I found myself caught up in striving and stressing over my job situation or lack of, yesterday, exhausted mentally and emotionally from looking for a second job. (I have a part time job this summer, and a job lined up for fall, but that's a month away). Until I saw myself and realized how silly I was being. God is in control, no matter what it looks like to us. Trust. That's my word for today. Rest and trust.

Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him

Psalm 37:7

Shadows

2009-07-12T08:53:00.004-05:00

Today is my son's 13th birthday! But, since he and his friends are still sleeping, I thought I'd sneak in a quick post. The Brenda Photo Challenge this time is on Shadows.

Watch for the Unexpected Miracles!

2009-07-11T07:00:00.008-05:00

Though the fig tree should not blossom

And there be no fruit on the vines,

Though the yield of the olive should fail

And the fields produce no food,

Though the flock should be cut off from the fold

And there be no cattle in the stalls,

Yet I will exult in the LORD,

I will rejoice in the God of my salvation. The Lord GOD is my strength,

And He has made my feet like hinds' feet,

And makes me walk on my high places.

Habakkuk 3:17-20

The steps of a man are established by the LORD,

And He delights in his way. When he falls, he will not be hurled headlong,

Because the LORD is the One who holds his hand.

I have been young and now I am old,

Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken

Or his descendants begging bread.

All day long he is gracious and lends,

And his descendants are a blessing.

Psalm 37:23-26

These days have been filled with joys and blessings, God showing me His answers to my long sought after prayers, and moments of pure panic. When I'm reacting to a situation with worry and fear, then I'm not trusting in God's provision and presence. Regardless of how things may appear, I can know with confidence that God holds my hand. Even though there is no fruit on the vines, and no blossom on the fig tree, God will be my strength. He will give me the ability to walk and climb in the steep places.

God's answers are not always, or usually, what we expect. But they fit into God's picture He is creating in our lives. Sometimes I'm so busy looking for what I was expecting that I miss the miracles God is providing!

"The African impala can jump to a height of over 10 feet and cover a distance of greater than 30 feet. Yet these magnificent creatures can be kept in an enclosure in any zoo with a 3-foot wall. The reason is these animals will not jump if they cannot see where their feet will fall. Faith is the ability to trust what we cannot see". . .(God's Plan for My Life, Living by Faith by Cooper Abrams)

If I didnt' have times of need in my life, I wouldn't have moments of realization and reflection like this. God wants me to draw near to Him and when I do, He comforts me and gives me the strength and faith to take the next step (or leap!)

2009-06-30T08:58:00.001-05:00

As for us, we will walk

In the name of the Lord our God forever and ever.

Micah 3:9

2009-06-23T23:29:00.005-05:00

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High,

Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.

Psalm 91:1

If I remain for a time in a position of being covered and protected by God, the Most High, then, I will continue in the place of His reflected image. Just my own late night attempt at paraphrasing. I started out my day memorizing and repeating this verse in my head, over and over. So, I guess it's right that I end my day thinking on the same words. I looked up the definitions of the words in Webster's, trying to find a way of making them more clear, more alive.

I like this one too.

I will lie down and sleep in peace,

for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.

Psalm 4:8

Goodnight All!

PHOTO CHALLENGE MACRO

2009-06-20T07:57:00.011-05:00

Good Saturday Mornin' to ya!

Welcome to "Get Up Close, Using Macro", our new Brenda Photo Challenge for today hosted by none other than Janice at Butterfly Gardens! Join me in visiting all of the participants and viewing their gorgeous UP CLOSE photos! I've decided I need to start using my old Nikon 35mm. I did capture a few in focus, but the cool breeze we have this morning kept things moving!

An old chain hanging from something outside the old, unused backdoor into the garage that we never use. I liked how the grain on the door is sharp under the actual chain and fades softer under the shadow.

No, this isn't my silhouette! However it looks like it could easily be! This is a dried leaf, sitting on my deck, one side curled over itself.

Can you guess which is the bush, and which is the vine that is taking over! It's taking over everything! We didn't have vines that this in Oklahoma!

How about Jack and the Beanstalk? An upclose look at the twists and turns of the vine as it takes over another unsuspecting victim.

And, finally a flower! I didn't have much luck with flowers today.

Have a great Saturday! I'm off to find some special treats for breakfast!

A Strange Day Indeed

2009-06-19T22:39:00.014-05:00

This is the moment when I wish I had a British accent and a mustache I could twirl. If I did, I would say, while twirling my mustache and peering over my spectacles, "this has been a strange day. Yes, by george, a strange day indeed!"

Seriously, though, I needed to inject some humor into this day, if only for myself! This morning started out fairly normally until the UPS man showed up on my front porch. An unexpected UPS envelope was left outside of my door because of the barking of my dogs inside of the door. So...I picked up this very thin envelope and read the senders information. Hmmm, no one I know. From California. . . I open the envelope and lo and behold. Three, count them 3, USPS money orders, each for $975.25 each. My first thought was "Lord"? Nah. Couldn't be. My second thought was, "I'd better start investigating this." I noticed upon closer inspection that the name and address signed on the money orders was different than the return address of the sender on the envelope. *Aha. First clue.

I sat down at my trusty computer and did a search for the sender's name. Nothing. Then I tried doing a reverse lookup search using only the address. Voila! A different name attached to the address with a phone number. I dialed the number while my son stood by my side. . . A lady answered. I said to her, " Hi. You're going to think this is strange, but do you know someone by the name of __ _____? She said, "Well, first of all, no it isn't strange at all. And second, no I don't know anyone by that name, but you're not the first one to call and ask me that question. She then began a 30 minute recounting of everything she knew, which did NOT include how and why this person would have her address and be using it to send unsuspecting people all over the country either checks or money orders. She had received a call from a lady in Tennessee and from a man in Florida. She has also gotten to know her local UPS person on a first name basis, and they keep anything returned to this name and her address in their "fraud file" to investigate further. She said that no one had been able to figure out how this person got their name and address and why they would send this to them. She had seen a report on some news show about a scam where the crooks want you to deposit the checks into your bank and then they are able to see your bank and account information and empty out your accounts! Egads! She proceeded to give me the police report # she has filed at her county sheriff's department.

After hanging up the phone I received 3 phone calls from an "unknown" source. All 3 were some man with a very heavy foreign accent trying to tell me something I couldn't understand a word of.
Next, I received an email, telling me they were glad I had received my package and would I please follow my instructions and do as I was told.
What instructions? It was then I discovered I had indeed been sent an email at 10:30 pm last night telling me what to do with the money. Help! I was to forward it to somebody in the UK by Western Union and give them the confirmation # afterwards. But I didn't do it.

I'm too smart for that I said to myself. I would never fall for anything so sinister. Then some of the wording in his email started to click, sounding vaguely familiar. Oh boy. Am I an idiot. I know better than that. How could I be so stupid? About a week ago, I received an email from a Secret Shopper company wanting me to be a mystery shopper for them. I had tried to sign up about a year ago to do something like this, so I thought, well good, that would be fun to do! So, I sent them back all of my information. Aha. There it is. That's how they found me. In fact, in the original secret shopper email, they promised me a 200.00 fee for completing my assignments. And in the email I received today, they told me to keep 200.00 and forward the rest to them.

To make a long story a little bit longer, I printed off all of the emails. I have them in the UPS envelope with the money orders. I have also saved all of my phone messages from this criminal. I'm thinking the money orders are stolen probably from the USPS. So, I think I'll contact them first.

I hope this is the end of it. But all day, I felt so creepy. Like someone was spying on me, or worse, trying to take something valuable from me.

I proceeded to my 1:00 job interview at a well known coffee shop and will find out Monday if I will be working there for the rest of the summer.

I went to work at my job this evening and when I got home, my daughter called me asking if I had seen her wallet. We then embarked on a heartrending search for her wallet, which contained many, many valuable items. My heart was breaking for her and me both. I drove back through the gas station, where she remembered using it last. I retraced her drive watching along all of the curbs and in the grass on the corners. I got out and actually looked in all of the trash cans at the gas station and on the top of all the gas pumps, while customers looked at me like I was a suspicious character! Can you imagine!! My daughter called her bank and reported her card missing. I drove on back home, remembering that her address was on her DL and maybe, just maybe, as I fervently, fearfully, prayed, that the person finding the wallet, would be a kind, honest sort and would find our phone number.

I was home not very long when the phone wrang. rang, I mean. It was a very young sounding young man, who asked if I was my daughter? I said "no, but this is her mom!(with every hope in my heart)" He said, well, I think I found your daughter's wallet. " I wished I could have reached through that phone and hugged that boy. I told him "Bless you! Oh Bless You!" He offered to meet us at a local elementary school parking lot to give it back. He had found it at the gas station. I can't describe to you, the renewed faith this gave to me! I had been calling this day a stinky, awful, stressed out day. And within seconds, I was praising God and telling this boy"God bless you!".

So, my daughter's wallet was returned with everything still intact. I'm so thankful. And, I think we both learned valuable lessons today.

I forgot to mention, at some time this morning, running out of breakfast cereal and the fighting between siblings and parent that ensued and as a result, my son storming off on his bicycle while I'm worrying myself silly over him. Then, hugs and forgiveness afterwards. Oh, my. No wonder I'm tired.

Well, I couldn't waste a crazy day like this. I hate to admit my foolishness in such a matter, but let it be a warning to all!

Oh, did I mention I got soap in my eye while showering to get ready for my job interview? Oh, never mind.

"Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you thinks that he is wise in this age, he must become foolish, so that he may become wise." 1 Corinthians 3:18

Oh, shoot. I hear strange noises out in my garage! Will this day never end? I hope it's the neighborhood cat. Sigh. . . .

new growth

2009-06-17T09:16:00.010-05:00

One of the perks of not working full time at the moment, is I have ttttiiiiimmmmeeee to read and reflect that I didn't always have before. In reading the post about pruning on The Master's Artist blog, I remembered my old rose bush that I trimmed way back earlier in the spring. It was here when we moved into this house a little over 10 years ago. It had grown to be as tall as the house itself and was looking very woody and dead in some places. So, I trimmed it back, as far as my clippers would allow and sort of forgot about it since it's towards the back, on the side of my house.

The amazing thing about it is, new green growth is growing out of what looked to be dead, and the roses are a bright pink color instead of the deep, dark red they were before! Even they are expressing the newness of new life.

Maybe that's what I'm experiencing in this in between time. Maybe this is a time to be open to newness, new color, new growth, new ideas. . . For some reason, worry about money hasn't hit me yet. I'm just more aware of God being in the details, details I see in the beauty of creation around me, details in creating and accepting what I have been given to create, and the joy in all of that. I think it's a kind of healing for me. I can certainly use all of that I can get!

Well, my dogs can't decide whether to play or take a nap. I think they've decided on the nap. I just put my tea bags in for some fresh brewed iced tea for today, my daughter's still asleep, my son's not home yet from his sleepover, I've emptied the dishwasher, and I'm soaking up the quietness of the morning. Love to you all.

Sweet Lamb of God

2009-06-16T08:42:00.005-05:00

Lamb of God

Your only Son, no sin to hide

but you have sent Him from your side

to walk upon this guilty sod

and to become the Lamb of God.

Your gift of love they crucified

they laughed and scorned Him

as He died

the Humble King

they named a fraud

and sacrificed the Lamb of God.

O Lamb of God sweet Lamb of God

I love the holy Lamb of God

O wash me in your precious blood

my Jesus Christ the Lamb of God.

I was so lost I should have died

but you have brought me to your side

to be lead by your staff and rod

and to be called a lamb of God.

O Lamb of God sweet Lamb of God

I love the holy Lamb of God

O wash me in your precious blood

'til I am just a lamb of God.

I woke up in the night singing this song over and over. When I woke up this morning, I was still singing this song. I'm not sure where it came from, well, yes I do. It's very comforting. I didn't know all of the words, so I was just sort of humming the tune in my head. I've been searching for a beautiful version of it to share, and this is the best I've found. I love being able to read all of the words too. Karen over at Loved and Engraved gave me the idea. Maybe we could have a classic hymn sharing blog theme. (or something like that). Anyway, sit back, close your eyes and enjoy.

(*A beautiful arrangement of the Christian hymn "Lamb of God" played on my Abell D Irish Whistle, the same one that Sir James Galway plays on The Lord of the Rings. Accompaniment CD is from a book available online. Flutemark)

No Fear in Love

2009-06-15T11:33:00.003-05:00

There is no fear in love,

but perfect love casts out fear.

1 John 4:18

God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. This way, love has the run of the house, becomes at home and mature in us, so that we're free of worry on Judgment Day—our standing in the world is identical with Christ's. There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life—fear of death, fear of judgment—is one not yet fully formed in love.
We, though, are going to love—love and be loved. First we were loved, now we love. He loved us first.

1 John 4:17-19

Do everything in love.

1 Corinthians 16:14

So, it occurrs to me, that if I am living my days in the presence of God, who is love, that my fears will diminish, and love will increase. I'm reading a book by Jan Karon called " Home to Holly Springs". It fills me with the sense that God is in the details of my life. If that is true, then the details take on new meaning. I have tended to skip over the details, because the big picture is what matters. However, the big picture is made up of all of the details. If I take care of the details, then the big picture will take care of itself. (I think). I guess what I'm trying to say, is that I'm learning to trust that God will help me with the details that I'm afraid of, and if He cares about the details, then they aren't so overwhelming to me. The big picture is too big for me to take care of, anyway. I think I'll trust Him with that. Jan Karon's books are precious. Her characters often refer to "praying the prayer that never fails". And that is my prayer today, for your day and mine.

Sing Out Loud

2009-06-10T13:26:00.012-05:00

"It is the greatest of all mistakes to do nothing because you can do only a little. Do what you can."

***

Anyway

* * *

You can spend your whole life buildin'

Somethin' from nothin'

One storm can come and blow it all away

Build it anyway

You can chase a dream

That seems so out of reach

And you know it might not ever come your way

Dream it anyway

God is great, but sometimes life ain't good

When I pray it doesn't always turn out like I think it should

But I do it anywayI do it anyway

This world's gone crazy and it's hard to believe

That tomorrow will be better than today

Believe it anyway

You can love someone with all your heart

For all the right reasons

And in a moment they can choose to walk away

Love 'em anyway

(Repeat Chorus)

You can pour your soul out singin'

A song you believe in

That tomorrow they'll forget you ever sang

Sing it anyway

Yeah sing it anyway

I sing

I dream

I love anyway

Martina McBride/Brad Warren/Brett Warren

*Sydney Smith

To Know This Love

2009-06-09T14:11:00.003-05:00

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!

Ephesians 3:16-21

This is my prayer for you today!~and for me, for all of us!

Do Re Mi

2009-06-07T21:52:00.003-05:00

This video is so much fun. I just found it on facebook. Maybe you've already seen it, but if not I hope you enjoy it! It made me smile :)

Sunshine on My Shoulders

2009-06-07T15:59:00.004-05:00

There are songs that are so woven into our memories and days that they become a part of us. This is one of those songs. Written in the early 1970's, it was one that I learned to play on my acoustic Yamaha guitar. (I even had a dream once that I married John Denver).

I'm enjoying a quiet, peaceful afternoon. Mowing my yard, thinking back over this past week, planning my flower beds in my mind, thanking God for His wonderful blessings, of sitting beside my daughter in church this morning, taking communion, of friends and fellowship, and knowing that my God is greater than can be imagined.

The sunshine is shining on my shoulders today as I work outside and I wish you the warmth of sunshine on your shoulders today, too!

Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder

2009-06-06T10:48:00.009-05:00

I love this subject for our new Brenda Photo Challenge hosted by Karen at Loved and Engraved. This has been a busy week, but I like the fact that God is reminding me to remember the beauty of what He is accomplishing around me.

This is a beautiful sight to all proud parents who only have

eyes for one of the 1200 high school graduates. My eyes were glued on the 19th row, 7th student in from the right side. Her expression says it all! The day finally arrived! Yeah!

My amazing 12 year old son graduated from 6th grade and my wonderful parents were able to be here to share the excitement of both graduations and the beauty of new beginnings and looking to the future!

"I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for."

Jeremiah 29:11

Seek Him

2009-06-01T09:15:00.000-05:00

Seek the Lord and His strength,

Seek His face continually.

Psalm 105:4

2009-05-31T22:31:00.002-05:00

I'm doing a little house cleaning and painting my bathroom tonight while listening to a really good oldies station. Boy, every song has been so fun to listen to. So, I thought I'd share a little "blast from the past" with you guys.

Ok. . . EVERY song sung by Cat Stevens is so poignant and beautiful. It's very difficult to only include three, but I've got work to do! How many hundreds of times did we listen to these songs and how did they shape our hearts when we were so young?

Doorways

2009-05-24T19:29:00.011-05:00

Somewhere near Presidio, Texas

Jefferson, Texas

Mission Doorway, San Antonio

Inside Mission in San Antonio

I love the stenciling

Courtyard Doorway at a San Antonio Mission

San Antonio Mission

Cabin near Honobia, Oklahoma, Thanksgiving Time

The Brenda Photo Challenge is hosted this time by Annie at Annie's Blog. The theme is Doorways, one of my favorite subjects. I've probably posted some of these before.

Thankful

2009-05-24T19:07:00.004-05:00

I'm thankful for new days and I am so thankful for prayer and friends and prayers of friends. On Friday, sitting in the room at the hospital with my daughter before, during and after her surgery, I found myself trying to worry and then this peace came over me, an awareness of God's closeness to us. She is recuperating fine, and my prayers now are for her complete healing so she doesn't have to go through this again. Love you all.

Praying this Morning

2009-05-22T08:16:00.003-05:00

Today is the last day of my beautiful eighteen year old daughter's senior year in high school. She has one test left to take today, a portfolio to finish up, and a checklist to get signed by the principal to ensure she has everything needed to graduate. She's exempt from her finals so she doesn't have to go to class next week. Graduation is June 2. While celebrating with her and feeling her joy in this time, it's been a time of stress as well, as we all know.

Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd,
I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul,
He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for Thou art with me,
Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.
Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies,
Thou hast anointed my head with oil,
My cup overflows.
Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

I know summer will soon be here, full of relaxing, sunny days.
I pray that God will be with all of you too, as you go about your lives and days!

Born Free

2009-05-18T14:30:00.004-05:00

Who remembers this movie? Isn't it funny how the movies and books and music we love as children stay with us? We rented this movie on Sunday and so far I'm the only one who has watched it all the way through. My old paperback copy of the book is missing its front cover, but still on my bookshelf. That's amazing. I remember what a powerful effect it had on me as a young girl and whatever pull it had on me then is still there. I love the song. I remember the cover of the sheet music, so I must have learned to play it on the piano. I'll have to look for it and see if I can still find the notes on my out of tune piano!

I will soon be moving to Africa and raising lions. I'll continue blogging from there. My heart is full!

2009-05-17T16:32:00.000-05:00

Looking through the backyard of my life
Time to sweep the fallen leaves away

Paul McCartney

Love this song

2009-05-16T20:32:00.003-05:00

It's time for healing time to move on
It's time to fix what's been broken too long
Time to make right what has been wrong
It's time to find my way to where I belong
There's a wave that's crashing over me
All I can do is surrender

Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos somehow there's peace
It's hard to surrender to what I can't see
but I'm giving in to something heavenly

Time for a milestone
Time to begin again
Revaluate who I really am
Am I doing everything to follow your will
or just climbing aimlessly over these hills
So show me what it is you want from me
I give everything I surrender...To...

Time to face up
Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out
That I've wanted to say for so many years
Time to to release all my held back tears

Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but I believe
You're up to something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly

Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but now I can see
This something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Something heavenly

It's time to face up
Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out

Thoughts for the Day!

2009-05-16T11:30:00.004-05:00

Worrying does not empty tomorrow of its troubles, it empties today of its strength.

Corrie Ten Boom

Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.

Abraham Lincoln

2009-05-13T22:29:00.004-05:00

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

Luke 11:9-10

I've been thinking lately about beauty and wisdom. I know we will see what we look for, whether it is in our own lives or in the lives of others, or in the world around us. If we seek beauty, we will find beauty. If we ask for wisdom, we will be given wisdom. I for one, intend to start seeking and asking! I hope to make my blog a place of inspiration, where both can be found. Who wants to walk with me up to the door and knock?

Today

2009-05-06T07:51:00.004-05:00

Dear God,

I'm sitting here looking out at the deep green of the trees, the rain drops on blades of grass, the gray of the sky. Focusing on your power, your love, your strength. So many details to take care of. So many obstacles to go around, looking for the smooth way through this time. This should be a joyous time really! My daughter is graduating from high school in less than one month! I think I'm feeling a mixture of sadness, the stress of getting everything done by the deadlines, and trying to enjoy this time for her.

upcoming events

pick up prom ticket

daughter takes college entrance test

Call the school to excuse her from classes

Pick up prom dress

order boutonniere

pick up senior pictures

pay for senior pictures

rent carpet cleaner

clean house

pick up repaired trombone

work

drive to Oklahoma to pick up grandparents

son's band concert

work

work

Prom

church

Mother's Day

work

work (got sick, so I didn't have to work!)

work "

work "

work "

work

drive grandparents back to Oklahoma

squeeze in another college visit or two

amiably discuss and agree with her dad on school choice and finances

accept financial aid package for chosen school

find a summer job for myself

find a full time job with school district for next year

Band field trip

take English, Language Arts and Reading test for grades 4-8

daughter's graduation June 2

I look back over this list, and in addition to being weights on my shoulders, each and everyone of these is also a privilege, and a gift. Lord, thank you for the jobs you've provided for me so far. Thank you for the job you will provide for me this summer. Thank you for meeting our needs. Thank you for the financial aid for my daughter to attend college. Thank you for my wonderful kids and their full and wonderful lives. I pray for your protection for them as they make their way in the world. Be with my daughter today as she takes her test. Please don't let her add my stress to her own. I lay all of these things at your feet. I know I'm trying to carry too many things at one time. You are able to carry all of us and our burdens!

My God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:19

Post Post!

I apologize, because this list could just as easily have been placed on a piece of paper on my desk or kitchen counter, but since it's here, I have highlighted all of the items accomplished so far in this purple color! How about that! Somehow the days have a way of taking care of themselves. I think I've read that somewhere. . .

Have a great day!

Hope

2009-04-29T21:28:00.003-05:00

Hope~ to desire with expectation of obtainment
~ to expect with confidence

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

Hebrews 11:1

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect

1 Peter 3:15

Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.

Psalm 25:5

The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him

Lamentations 3:25

Lord, let my hope be only in you.

OSU!

2009-04-26T11:12:00.011-05:00

Guess what we did this weekend? My 18 year old daughter and I visited my old college campus (well, one of three) and attended their open house. It was so fun! Everything was orange! We walked along the same sidewalks that I walked as a freshman and saw all of the classroom buildings I remember. My old dorm had been torn down even though it was new when we moved in some 35 years ago. The Italian restaurant I worked in was closed up and empty. It's still a friendly school with great spirit and attitude. It makes me wish I could go back to college days again and take advantage of all of the fun things to do! My daughter is still deciding on a school. But it was such a treasure for this mom to get to spend a day with her and relive alot of fun memories as well. Go Cowboys!

On My Front Porch

2009-04-24T06:31:00.006-05:00

On my front porch are two chairs. I bought them a few years ago. I was looking for something inexpensive but nice looking. I really like them, they are blue and green striped fabric on a wood frame with a little wooden table to match sitting in the middle. Usually when I sit outside I don't notice the empty chair sitting beside me. However, the other morning as I sat trying to capture a sense of peace and quiet, all I could hear was the constant roar of the nearby highway, with an occasional bird's singing, and my mind was full of thoughts refusing to be quiet.

All of a sudden, the emptiness of the chair seemed to have a presence all its' own. I began to imagine, what if Jesus were sitting in that chair. What would I say to Him if given the chance? What would He say to me?

We all have things in our lives that seem to keep reoccurring. People or situations . . . something that we just haven't been able to make sense out of. So I asked. I asked what am I supposed to do and how am I supposed to feel and respond in "my" situation. His answer to me, brought me peace. He said that there are words that people say and things they do that destroy, that are meant to cause destruction in some way. Remember when this happens, that these words are not from me. Remember My Truth, that you are loved.

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:1.

This morning, I was reminded of this verse as I sat on my front porch.

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Psalm 34:18

Now, if you read this and think I've lost my marbles, let me assure you I haven't. I didn't hear a voice or see a vision. But His words spoke to my heart and for the first time I realize that some things don't have to make sense. I don't have to make them make sense, when I know that I am loved.

God's Amazing Grace

2009-04-22T22:08:00.003-05:00

There is no limit to the things God has in store for us. His love holds the most unexpected gifts, just waiting for His moment to give them to us.

I just spoke to my sister in law (ex), who I had not spoken to in at least 10 years. The sound of her voice and laughter brought healing to a place in my heart that I didn't even know was there, but God knew. We just had a casual conversation, but the acceptance and love were still there as if no time at all had gone by. Isn't it amazing. . . God's grace. The grace we have known, we hold in our hands to give to others.

GOD, YOU'RE AMAZING!

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,

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,

God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.

Ephesians 3:20

Encouragement for the Day

2009-04-15T08:19:00.006-05:00

We all need encouragement, some days more than others. There is an enemy of our soul, watching and waiting for loneliness, fatigue, fear, worry, anything that distracts us from the path we're walking with Christ, the journey that God has set before us. God has made me aware lately, as if watching from a distance, the spiritual battle going on around us. We begin to feel alone, then tiredness sets in, and then when fear over any small (or big)circumstance enters our mind, we start to worry. When we worry we can't trust. Then the enemy has us where he wants us.

We become disoriented from the direction we were headed. It happens to all of us, at one time or another. I guess I wanted to write about this today because about a week or so ago, God began to show me new things. I was given a glimpse into a new realm of awareness of God working. And then this week, I am aware of fighting an invisible enemy. It's a pattern I can see scattered throughout my Christian life. Can you see it in yours as well?

It really began when I chose trust over worry. Sometimes I think that by worrying, I'm protecting my family, simply being cautious. But sometimes, God asks us to trust Him, to allow Him to give us a gift. Sometimes He wants to answer a prayer we have never prayed with words. He wants to answer the yearnings of our hearts that we don't even know how to express.

Two things happened actually, simultaneously. My son was given the opportunity to attend a father/son retreat on being a man of integrity. It was for his age group of boys getting ready to enter 7'th grade. Three men in our church volunteered to go as a"foster dads" so that the sons of single moms could also take part. I believe it will be a blessing for years to come in my son's life. The look in his eyes with the anticipation of going and the look in his eyes when he got home, I'll never forget. It was as if he knew this was a gift he was being given, something of great importance.

At the same time, there was a woman speaking Saturday morning to the women at my church. Her talk was called "Ministering to the Wounded Heart"*. While I was driving to hear her speak that morning, my heart felt as if I was "running" to Jesus. I knew I would meet Him there and hear Him in her words somehow. Her words helped me to understand myself and my past. God also gave me a new vision for my future. A joyful vision of ministering to other wounded hearts.

She shared how her plan was to minister to others through her strength. God's plan was for her to minister through her weakness*. God is so good. His grace is always right there, right where you are. He can turn our suffering into a treasure to be used by Him*. I guess that's what I mean in my heading, about God turning the greatest struggles in our lives into blessings. For me, I have found that when I struggle, then I draw closer to God. The closer I am to God, the more peace, hope and joy I am given, deep in my spirit, regardless of circumstances. Without suffering, without struggle, where would I be?

I pray that these verses are an encouragement and strength to you as you persevere and fight the battle.

Psalm 37: 39-40
The spacious, free life is from God, it's also protected and safe. God-strengthened, we're delivered from evil— when we run to him, he saves us.

Galations 5:1
Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you.

Romans 12: 9-10
Love from the center of who you are; don't fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.

Ephesians 6: 10-18
God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels.
13-18 Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.

Philippians 1:6
There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.

For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

* Alisa A. Hale
East-West Ministries

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T08:33:00.005-05:00

There is a peaceful rain falling and birds are singing. A beautiful Easter morning!

Happy Easter
from my house to yours!

John 20

1Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. 2So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!"
3So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. 4Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. 5He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. 6Then Simon Peter, who was behind him, arrived and went into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, 7as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus' head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen. 8Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. 9(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)
10Then the disciples went back to their homes, 11but Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.
13They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?"
"They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." 14At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.
15"Woman," he said, "why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?" Thinking he was the gardener, she said, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him."
16Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher).
17Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' "
18Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her.
Jesus Appears to His Disciples 19On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" 20After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.
21Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." 22And with that he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit. 23If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven."
Jesus Appears to Thomas 24Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord!" But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it."
26A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" 27Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe."
28Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!"
29Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
30Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

2009-04-10T06:26:00.008-05:00

These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers.Take these words along with the image when you post your award.

Just when I feel I've been neglectful of my own blog and my blog friends, I get a sweet message from Joni at Morning Coffee to encourage my heart and my writing! I've been really busy lately as well, hurrying to read what you've written, and not having the time to let you know that I've stopped by and that your words gave me inspiration for the day. Busyness means there's more work, which is good, however there's not as much time left over to nurture the soul. God has been busy though, allowing me a small glimpse into a new realm of awareness. Isn't it cool how that happens? So, I will be writing more soon.

Now, if I just had a few more hours to devote to blogland today! I'm passing this on to

The Perfect Walk

She has had to take a break from blogging and I want her to know she is missed. Her words always touched my heart for their honesty. Pray for Leigh in the Philippines.

Whispering Hope

Morning Coffee

A Woman's Worth

Psalm 90

2009-03-27T21:43:00.002-05:00

Teach us to number our days aright,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Relent, O LORD! How long will it be?
Have compassion on your servants.
Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.
Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, for as many years as we have seen trouble.
May your deeds be shown to your servants, your splendor to their children.
May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands.

Psalm 90:12-17

These words are my prayer tonight. I've missed Your word Lord. My days have been filled to overflowing and I need your peace. I see answers to my unspoken prayers and I thank you that you know my heart. I do pray for my work, the work of my hands to be Yours, to be established and planned by You. I commit my days to you. I commit my life to serving you. Your plans for me are all I need. My trust is in You.

Houston, Texas Spring Break!

2009-03-20T13:24:00.037-05:00

We drove down to Houston to see where my son is living and working and while we were there we did some sightseeing!

On our second day we visited The Johnson Space Center. We took a tram tour through Nasa and we saw some of the actual spacecraft that flew to the moon and some real space rocks!

The historic Mission Control happened in this building and the present day Mission Control is happening currently in this same building! A Space Shuttle launched 3 days before we were there.

You are looking at the Mission Control room for all of the Apollo Missions to the moon. "Houston, we've had a problem" was called into this very room. Pretty cool to think of all the history that happened right here.

This was incredible. This rocket was built for the Apollo 18 mission, however it never went to the moon because of a lack of funding for the space program in the 1970's. It's taller than the Statue of Liberty!

We left in awe of what man has accomplished in actually exploring space and landing on the moon and wondering where the next step will be. Oh, and guess what song was playing on the radio as we drove away? Rocket Man by Elton John!

The last stop on our trip home was to see this statue of Sam Houston.

Our first adventure is a trip to the Houston Zoo. I was always stopping to take one more picture and hurrying to catch up with my boys.

Azaleas were everywhere!

I loved the giraffes. They're so beautiful and elegant.

The lions were enjoying the warm sunshine after all of the cold and rainy weather we've had here lately. I know exactly how they feel!

Funny, little meerkats just sat there staring at...something?

The best part was getting to hang out with my two favorite guys. It was just me and "My Two Sons" for a few days. So much fun!

Little Oscar

2009-03-10T09:53:00.005-05:00

I would like to introduce you to the newest member of our family! He officially belongs to my daughter, but he has found his way into all of our hearts. It's funny how a puppy can fill up all the empty places and give so much joy! He's about an 8 week old teacup poodle/chihuahua. He's so little and sweet. We love him!

Pear Blossoms

2009-03-03T12:50:00.010-06:00

Pear Blossoms

I glanced out at my backyard today, ready to get the rake and continue cleaning up all of the leaves and twigs left over from last year. I saw the pear tree beginning to bloom. I worked out in the yard yesterday and sure didn't notice it. We've lived in this house for 10 years. There were many of those years when I was so busy treading the water of life that I was unable to see what was right before me. Today, as I walked out to the tree with my camera, I prayed a prayer of thankfulness for these quiet moments, a chance to see.

Dear Lord, thank you for the warmth of the sunshine, the beauty of this pear tree right in my own backyard, the strength that I find in you. I pray that you will restore our hearts and the lost years. Let the joy we find in you be our strength. Give us hope for the future, for our hope is in you.

"for the joy of the LORD is your strength."

Nehemiah 8:10

Isaiah 43

2009-02-23T08:22:00.001-06:00

Fear not, for I have redeemed you, I have summoned you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned, the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

Isaiah 43:1-3

Don't be afraid, I've redeemed you. I've called your name. You're mine.When you're in over your head, I'll be there with you. When you're in rough waters, you will not go down. When you're between a rock and a hard place, it won't be a dead end—Because I am God, your personal God, The Holy of Israel, your Savior.

Isaiah 43:1-3

Signs of Spring!

2009-02-20T08:23:00.015-06:00

The first thing to bloom in my yard each year is this Flowering Quince, transferred years ago from my mom's garden in Oklahoma.

Miniature Daffodils (I wish they smelled as pretty as they look!

A brand new bud on my pear tree

Henbit is just a weed, but it even has it's own beauty, until it takes over my yard!

Dandelions, amazing how this changes . . .

to this!

You can visit the Brenda Photo Challenge Blog to see all of the other participants. Joy at Shuttershy is our host this month.

Flowers appear on the earth, the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land. Song of Solomon 2:12

I love how God renews my life each day, in each situation, when I seek Him. Spring reflects that joy we feel in the renewal of life. I wish you many beautiful springtimes!

Stormy

2009-02-18T10:36:00.011-06:00

He was a wonderful dog!

One day about 6 years ago, my son presented me with a dog. Not just any dog. A very large, tall, two year old Doberman Pinscher. As my son and I drove in his car listening to the thunder and watching the rain outside the windows, I asked him what the dog's name was, "Stormy" was his answer. The coincidence of his name, with the stormy day on which he became a member of our family, helped to put to rest my doubts. Storm, or Stormy, became such a beloved pet. He taught me so much about love, sacrifice, gentleness, loyalty...the list could go on.

We had him for two months, when he was hit by a car. We all helped nurse him back to health and I think this time solidified his place in our home. There's something about the look a dog gives you, looking you straight in the eye, communicating love and joy. Alot of people were afraid of him. I just had to laugh, knowing what a wimp he really was. When someone would walk up the sidewalk to the house, he would stick his face out of the curtains. Because he had been woken up from a long nap, his eyes would squint, his nose would scrunch up, which showed his pointy teeth. I have to admit, I would have been scared too, but he always made me think of Jerry Lewis.

On the other hand, he was a beautiful, strong, muscular dog with a gleaming coat and color and drew admiration wherever we went. He was tall enough that he could actually "sit down" on the couch. He would just sit his rear end down and hold his head high and smile. He was so funny! He wasn't perfect, by any means. He would get so excited when someone walked in the door, that you couldn't have a conversation for about 5 minutes. I can also think of several favorite blankies and stuffed animals that were destroyed or disappeared. He loved walks, and he loved even more sneaking (or pushing) his way out the door and running FREE for awhile. He was a great guard dog and always gentle with my kids and their friends. I've heard this kind of dog referred to as a gentle giant. I have to agree.

My dog hasn't been well for about a year, and during the past two weeks we knew it was time. He struggled with breathing and even sleeping. He would look at me as if to ask for help and I felt so helpless. He spent time at the vets but had come back home Monday. He wouldn't eat, and it seemed he had lost his "spirit". He didn't have the energy to look me in the eye anymore. He passed away at home yesterday evening. We buried him in our backyard this morning, early. As I climbed into bed last night, I realized I wouldn't be listening for his footsteps or requests to go outside. I started wondering about his spirit. Where is he now? So, today I googled the subject. There seem to be alot of other people wondering the same thing. I even found bible verses which communicate God's love for His animals, something I never even thought of while my dog was alive.

And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, "To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever."

Revelations 5:13

"For every beast of the forest is Mine, The cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird of the mountains, And everything that moves in the field is Mine.

Psalm 50:10-11

A righteous man has regard for the life of his animal.

Proverbs 12:10

From now on, when I form a cloud over the Earth and the rainbow appears in the cloud, I'll remember my covenant between me and you and everything living, that never again will floodwaters destroy all life. When the rainbow appears in the cloud, I'll see it and remember the eternal covenant between God and everything living, every last living creature on Earth."

Genesis 9:8-16

LET EVERYTHING THAT HAS BREATH PRAISE THE LORD!

Psalm 150:6

"If having a soul means being able to feel love and loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than most humans." ~ James Herriot

Sanctuary

2009-02-09T14:24:00.003-06:00

a place of refuge and protection

a consecrated place

I've noticed lately how, in the midst of worship, my mind clears, my heart quiets, my worries flee, and God speaks. It's where my moments of greatest inspiration are found.

A clear mind. . .

(Webster's definitions of the word clear)

bright , luminous cloudless ,free from mist, haze, or dust . . .oh

untroubled , serene, clean , pure easily seen through . . .that's why

transparent easily heard easily visible . . .it's starting to make sense now

plain free from obscurity or ambiguity, easily understood. . .of course

unmistakable , capable of sharp discernment . . .I can see

keen free from doubt . . . I believe

sure , free from guile or guilt . . .I am saved

innocent ,unhampered by restriction or limitation, unencumbered by debts . . .I am free

absolute free from obstruction ,emptied of contents or cargo , free from entanglement . . . I've laid down my burdens, set down my load

lucid capacity to perceive the truth directly and instantaneously. . . Now, it's all clear to me

I love words and their meanings. They never fail to amaze me.

Textures and Patterns

2009-02-07T07:38:00.011-06:00

Everywhere you look in San Antonio, you see textures and patterns. Maybe that's why I love visiting there.

Mission San Jose

Mission Espada

The Rose Window at Mission San Jose in San Antonio.

I love old doors and windows for their texture. This is an old doorway in Jefferson, Texas.

I love this stained glass window in the atrium of our new church building.

I love the texture of old books!

I love the pattern that the sunlight and shadows make

on this old church in East Texas

The Brenda Photo Challenge is on Textures and Patterns. It's being hosted this time by Donna at Cottage Days and Journeys. I can't wait to see everyone's photos!

Can you believe I'm actually sitting here with my back door open listening to birds singing? Very lovely.

I'm Not Perfect!

2009-01-31T17:37:00.006-06:00

One of my favorite memories happened on a day when nothing had seemed to go right. I just couldn't do what I thought I had to do. There weren't enough minutes in the day to be the mom I wanted to be. The house wasn't clean, the dishes were in the sink, the laundry wasn't done and who knows what else.

But I stood there in the middle of this mess of a house and said loudly, as if making an announcement to the world," YOU KNOW WHAT? I'M NOT PERFECT!! I CAN'T BE PERFECT! NO MATTER WHAT I DO, MY HOUSE WILL NEVER BE PERFECT, LIFE WILL NEVER BE PERFECT AND YOU KNOW WHAT? IT'S OK!! I DON'T HAVE TO BE PERFECT." My daughter looked at me and said "Mom, I'm so glad you said that! I'm so glad you said that." We hugged and laughed and understood each other completely at that moment. In some way, I was giving my daughter permission to not have to be perfect, and she had given me the best gift she could ever give.

I remember that day every once in awhile. Probably not often enough. Yesterday while pondering this, I came up with some amusing thoughts that pretty well define the person that I am. I am consistently inconsistent, I am perfectly imperfect, I am a conservative non-conformist, I am a sentimental cynic, I am a quiet extrovert, I am an outgoing introvert, I am neatly messy, I am a lazy hard worker, I am a determined scatterbrain, I am a dichotomy: something with seemingly contradictory qualities. Which would explain my frustration at times, when I'm trying my best to be consistent, perfect, to conform, to be outgoing, to work hard, to be determined in my focus. Whew! Life will never be what we desire. How can it be with what I have to work with!

“If I discover within myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world” C.S. Lewis

I'm not sure how well that quote fits into what I've been writing about, but I really love C.S. Lewis quotes and this one speaks to me about the desire to be more than we can be, and the desire to accomplish something that is always just beyond reach. Maybe someday we'll understand.

"For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. Now faith, hope, love, abide these three, but the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:12-13

The gift my daughter gave to me that day was love. Unconditional love. The greatest gift of all.

Sunshine

2009-01-26T08:17:00.003-06:00

You guys are soooo awesome! What fun encouraging comments you sent regarding my "winter doldrums". Even from as far away as Florida and Australia where it's really warm right now. I love you all. Your comments are enough to brighten any day!

I wish for you sunshine in your hearts even if your skies are gray. How's that for a poetic thought this morning? See you soon!

Winter Doldroms. . . Blah Blah Blah

2009-01-24T07:06:00.004-06:00

Well, I think I have wandered aimlessly into the land of the winter doldroms. Aaaggghhh! Everything seems so boring and gray. I remember feeling this way every other year at this same time so I know it's normal, it's just so. . . so. . . boring. Maybe I'm just tired, I think! Coffee always helps! Actually, we are driving up to Oklahoma where it's even colder, to celebrate my Dad's 82 birthday! I'm excited about a change of scenery and to spend time with my parents. They still live in the home we moved into when I was 5 years old. I always enjoy going back home.

About a week ago, I decided my blog needed something new to brighten it up! I decided to put on some plaid flannel, that's always been a favorite of mine in the winter, but now even that seems boring. I'm determined to enjoy the snowflakes as long as it's cold outside, since I live in Texas, I don't get to enjoy them in real life.

I've had some new writing ideas, just haven't had the time to put them down on paper, or hmm, the virtual paper of my blog, I guess you could say. I've had the need lately to try and live in the real world, without my computer as much. But then, I find I've missed important emails from friends and interesting and inspiring blogs from you guys. Let's face it! The computer has become a part of our real world! It's kind of futuristic when you think about it. It's neat how God uses all of this new technology to bring His people together and accomplish His purposes too.

Got to go! Maybe I'll come back from my trip with a renewed perspective and energy! Just writing this has helped! Have a great weekend!

Tagged

2009-01-13T07:31:00.004-06:00

I've been tagged by Annie to post the 4th photo in my 4th file in My Pictures. So here it is! It's my son playing Inline Hockey. My older son played for several years and now my younger son is playing. This was his first season about 2 years ago now. It's a really fun game to watch. The town we live in built a skate park a few years ago with two rinks built just for hockey! My older son had to play on tennis courts!

I need to tag two people now so who will it be? How about . . . Kylie at A Bite of Country Cupcakes and . . . I've got to go to work! I'll finish posting later! Ok, Kimberly at Walk the Beach, you've been tagged too!

Have a great day!

Philippians 4:6-7

2009-01-12T07:14:00.002-06:00

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

New Living

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

NASB

Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

The Message

Just thought you might be comforted by the same words that are comforting me this morning! I remember memorizing this verse as a teenager. It's amazing when we focus on God's words and turn our worries into prayers, He really does give us His peace.

May you have a day filled with peace, in spite of what is going on around you!

Anything New Photo Challenge

2009-01-07T12:02:00.013-06:00

My boys went out on Thanksgiving afternoon and bought me some new Christmas lights and two new wreaths. They even climbed up on the roof to put them up for me! They looked so beautiful and really gave me a headstart getting ready for Christmas. Now I'll have new lights and wreaths to enjoy next Christmas season.

These are my new shower curtain and towels that my girls got me for Christmas! I love them!

Aren't they gorgeous? (see the bird?)

Some fun new birthday presents!

This is the school entrance for my new (three week) job beginning on Monday! The school does have alot of Hispanic children, but I didn't realize I took a picture of the Spanish side of the sign. I met with the teacher I will be substituting for this morning. I'll be in a resource classroom with 2nd and 4th grade kids helping them with reading and math. I'm really excited.

Anything New

2009-01-07T08:11:00.003-06:00

It's such a glorious new year and so recently after Christmas it should be easy to find something new to photograph. Hmmmm. . . let me put my thinking cap on. I'll be back with a few photos!
Brenda's Photo Challenge this time is Anything New and is hosted by Laura Belle at Laura's - I Spy Weekly Photos . You can check out everyone else's photos while I go find some new things!

Contentment

2009-01-03T08:39:00.005-06:00

Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have, for He Himself has said, "I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,"
so that we confidently say,

"THE LORD IS MY HELPER, I WILL NOT BE AFRAID. WHAT WILL MAN DO TO ME?"

Hebrews 13:5-6

I heard this verse about a week before Christmas in a sermon. I marked it in my bible and began reading it over and over at home, before going to sleep at night or during the day, just to be reminded of its' truth. For some reason, I had never connected the different thoughts expressed in these verses together.

If I am not to love money, which I didn't think I did, however, I carried an awful lot of concern around in my heart for something I didn't love. What is money, after all? It is various pieces of paper, with numbers and designs on them. It is round pieces of metal, minerals imprinted with numbers and designs. Placing this fact in front of me, looking at it as simply a thing, gives me a healthier perspective. It can just be numbers on a page. It doesn't give value to me, or to my life.

Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth.
For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory.

Colossians 3:2-4

Living my life in gratitude daily for what I have been given, learning contentment, has been one of the most rewarding journeys I have taken. To connect the words of Christ with this, "I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you", gives me a reason for being content. It's not based on denial of the facts of my situation, but based on something much greater.

What a gift, to read the words, "The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What can (mere) man do to me?" We all face many different struggles and worries, but the same truth can calm each of our hearts.

I awoke in the night many times during the week of Christmas, and I leaned heavily on these verses, letting them dwell in my heart and mind. This past week, the concerns I had then are no longer. The things I was worrying about never came to pass. The arrival of two different checks, two days earlier than expected, and of course God's grace, has carried me through to a place today of no worries! Maybe I should whisper those words, but I woke up this morning with the realization that there is nothing hanging over me, no darkness threatening to cast a shadow over my day. I was so surprised by this that I started searching my memory for anything that I might have forgotten about!

I'm writing this because I felt I needed to share the GOODNESS OF GOD and HIS FAITHFULNESS in my life. Whether it's impossible financial situations we are facing or health concerns for loved ones, or impossible people in our lives, the Lord's words ring true and will sustain us through this new year, 2009.

God bless you richly!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T08:58:00.002-06:00

"We will open the book. It's pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and it's first chapter is New Year's Day."

Edith Lovejoy Pierce

I found this quote last year on New Year's Day 2008. I included it in my first blog post, written on January 7, 2008. Writing and sharing with all of you has been lifechanging and has given me a creative outlet I needed. Reading your thoughts and insights, sharing in your lives has been a gift.

I'm realizing new places of healing taking place in my heart these days, making room for more beauty, for more openness to life. I'm beginning to love birds! I see them everywhere, in art and fabric, on plates and even on my new shower curtain! I see them differently somehow. Could they represent my heart's flight to freedom? May be. . .

“It may be hard for an egg to turn into a bird: it would be a jolly sight harder for it to learn to fly while remaining an egg. We are like eggs at present. And you cannot go on indefinitely being just an ordinary, decent egg. We must be hatched or go bad.” C.S. Lewis

“Hope is the thing with feathers, that perches in the soul, and sings the tune without words, and never stops at all.” Emily Dickinson

My prayer for us all, is a new year full of opportunities to fly!

Looking Forward to New Beginnings

2008-12-31T07:23:00.004-06:00

"There will come a time when you believe everything is finished. That will be the beginning."

Louis L'Amour

"The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease.

Great is his faithfulness

his mercies begin afresh each morning.

I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance

therefore, I will hope in him!”

Lamentations 3:22-24

After celebrating two Christmases, and two birthdays this past week, I'm enjoying the freshness and freedom we feel when we look to the new year. This morning as I've been contemplating the close of the year 2008, I've enjoyed reading your posts and have been inspired by your words. I'm ready for new beginnings. . . new hope. . . new accomplishments. . . new ways of looking at the same things. . .new strength to face each day. . . new friends. . .new opportunities. . .new joy. . .

This is what I wish for you!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T20:52:00.002-06:00

Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house. . .
Watching "It's a Wonderful Life"
Lighting candles
Reading the Christmas Story

And wishing all of you a wonderful, peaceful Christmas!

You lift up my spirit, You shine on my soul

2008-12-18T11:51:00.009-06:00

This song was just a gift to myself. I fell in love with Paul McCartney when I was 9 years old, about 44 years ago now. I discovered this new song the other day and I couldn't listen to it enough. Listen closely to the words. While I haven't always known if we shared the same philosophy, these words reflect my heart.

Christmastime Thoughts

2008-12-17T07:28:00.012-06:00

Ice Day! Woohoo! The schools were closed here on Tuesday because of icy roads so we had an unexpected day at home together! It was so warm and cozy inside and freeeeeeeeezing outside. Yep, ice is kind of a big deal here in Texas and I'll take any version of "white" I can get at this time of the year!

Beautiful surprises in the mail from friends bring joy and remind me of the gift of thoughtfulness and time that make a difference.

I feel really behind on getting ready for Christmas this year as far as shopping goes, even knowing what I need to be shopping for, but I've been blessed with the small gifts of Christmas. I'm reminded that it's the small things and the simple moments that I enjoy most about the Christmas season. Somehow the rest will happen and Christmas Day will arrive as it does every year, full of presents, food, and family, and a feeling of awe as I realize what the day means. How the whole world is changed for a day. . . as ours is changed for eternity, because of the birth of Christ.

Baking and decorating Christmas cookies. . .with the same cookie cutters we used when I was a little girl! This was a yearly event in my childhood and it brings back lots of memories. I'll admit I've skipped a few years in carrying out this tradition, but it's never too late to begin again!

Morning Praise

2008-12-14T07:46:00.002-06:00

I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.

Psalm 9:2

O my strength, I will sing praises to You;For God is my stronghold, the God who shows me lovingkindness.

Psalm 59:17

I will sing to the LORD as long as I live;I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.

Psalm 104:33

Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; His love endures forever.

Psalm 106:1

Beautiful Words

2008-12-09T12:03:00.003-06:00

It seems when I'm busiest, my blog posts become reflections of random ideas or words that have reached me through the busyness, not always having the time to explain my reasons. Every moment of my days are filled with prayers for my friend and his family. Lifting them up to God for His healing and strength. In the midst of these days, I'm aware of a loving Presence with me.

Sometimes beautiful words catch our attention unexpectedly whether through movies or books, reaching that part of us that needs to hear and believe them. While watching the movie "Prancer" the other night, I heard the quote "there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding." For some reason, those words broke through and gave me encouragement to BELIEVE. That truth lies underneath and over and beyond everything we see in this world.

I just finished reading my second book by Harold Bell Wright, called "The Calling of Dan Matthews". The book was full of gentle words and strong truths. I need these moments of quiet reflection, of being wrapped in another world, drawing some of the beauty into my own world. One of the quotes that was a gift to me is this, " ...do you think that anyone could ever replace the mountains, the ocean or the stars, or any of these wonderful things in the great universe, if they were to be destroyed? ...And do you think that anything in all this beautiful world is of greater importance- of more value to the world-than a human life, with all its marvelous power to think and feel and love and hate and so leave its mark on all life, for all time? ...Then don't you see how impossible it is that anyone should ever take your place? Don't you see that you have a place in the world-a place that is yours because God put you in it, just as truly as he put the mountains, the seas, the stars in their places? And don't you see why you must feel that you have a right to your own life-place, and that you must hold it, no matter what others say, or do, or think, because of its great value to God and to the world? And...do you think that anything in all the universe is dearer to the Father than a human life, that is so wonderful and so eternal in its power? So life should be the dearest thing in all the world to us. Not just the life of each to himself, but every life-any life, the dearest thing to all. I think this was true of Christ; I think it should be true of all Christians. I believe this with all my heart."

And so, I pray this could be my gift to you today, these words to take with you. I guess it's time to get on with my day, of sweeping the floor, washing dishes, shopping for and preparing some food, hearing about my kids' day at at school, having a new crown put on my tooth, and heading off to work this evening. Through it all, I'll remember these things I have pondered and carry them with me.

Love to all

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus

2008-12-07T21:13:00.002-06:00

Dear Editor, I am 8 years old."Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus."Papa says, 'If you see it in The Sun, it's so.'"Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?

Virginia O'Hanlon
115 West Ninety-fifth Street

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no child-like faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished. Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world. You tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding. No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood. Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.
Calvin Coolidge

Silent Night

2008-12-07T18:31:00.001-06:00

Silent night, holy night
All is calm, all is bright
Round yon Virgin Mother and Child
Holy Infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight
Glories stream from heaven afar
Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!
Christ, the Saviour is born
Christ, the Saviour is born

Silent night, holy night
Son of God, love's pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth "