Happy New Year

Well folks, we are approaching a new year. As I look towards 2013 with hope, I look back at 2012 and realize the lessons I've learned and the things I am thankful for.  I will list a few below

Things I've learned

1. Marriage is a beautiful thing if both parties are committed to each other and to God. It is a lot of work but so worth it at the end of the day.
2. That no matter what life brings, God is always working things out for me. I may not understand His plan but it is always the best plan for me.
3. Sometimes you have to take life 5 minutes at a time while other times you have to take life one day at a time.
4. Try something new, it brings out your inner child. This year I learned to play disc golf, and I went sledding.

Thing's I'm thankful for

1. The people that I meet along my journey in life. 
2. My husband, I fall in love with him more and more each day. 
3. The fact that God hasn't given up on me yet and is still working on me.
4. That even though my husband and I live off of one income, all our bills are paid and we have food to eat on a daily basis.

Anyway, as you all start the new year, look at what this year has brought you, taught you and how it made you grow. Moving forward take all of that with you and make the best of your day each and every day. And above all invite Jesus to be apart of your daily life, I can't promise that life will be easier but you will have more peace as you weather the storms of life.

Happy new years everyone!

A year ago today....

Our Unity Candle

A year ago today, I married my best friend, the love of my life and my gift from God. It was such a great day. The above picture is our unity candle that we lit during the middle of our ceremony. 

It has been a good first year of marriage. I have learned a lot. I have grown as a person. Marriage is a lot of work (a full-time job) but its so worth it and so much fun. The one and most important thing I learned about marriage this year is that God needs to be the center of the relationship for it to work and survive the storms that come. The next three things that I have learned are: choose the battles you want to fight, quality time is necessary, and laughing is a key part of success. 

Anyway, as I look back on this year and reminisce about my wonderful day last year. I realize how blessed I am. My husband truly loves me and is a patient man. I am convinced that the majority of the stars in his crown when he gets to heaven will be because of me. He may even get wings for dealing with me. Oh how I love my husband. Happy one year anniversary to us. 

Merry Christmas

These are two of my favorite pictures...so I share them with you.

100th Post

This is my 100th post. What does that mean? Where do I go from here? Do I continue writing or do I stop here?

What is the purpose of the blog? For some its an online diary/journal. For others its their way of processing life. For me its none of the above. I just like writing. I am not a good enough writer to write a book, or a journal article, etc. So I take my chances at blogging.

I know that there are five people that read these posts when they have the time. I think that that is so sweet and special of them. There are a million other things in life that they could read and yet they take the time to keep up with my ramblings.

At the end of the day, I enjoy writing these blog posts. Many may see it pointless and that's ok because I know that somewhere in this world there is one person that enjoys reading these blogs just as much as I enjoy writing them

So to the faithful readers, happy 100th post. What's next?

The cat

I am not sure where this originated but it was passed on to me and I thought it was quite hilarious. But shows why cats are evil (Sorry to all cat lovers out there)

angry cat

looks so innocent

Calling in Sick

We've all had trouble with our animals, but I don't think anyone can
top this one:

Calling in sick to work makes me uncomfortable. No matter how legitimate my excuse, I always get the feeling that my boss thinks I'm lying..

On one recent occasion, I had a valid reason but lied anyway, because the truth was just too darned humiliating. I simply mentioned that I had sustained a head injury, and I hoped I would feel up to coming in the next day. By then, I reasoned, I could think up a doozy to explain the bandage on the top of my head. The accident occurred mainly because I had given in to my wife's wishes to adopt a cute little kitty. Initially, the new acquisition was no problem.


Then one morning, I was taking my shower after breakfast when I heard
my wife, Deb, call out to me from the kitchen.

'Honey! The garbage disposal is dead again. Please come reset it.'

'You know where the button is,' I protested through the shower
pitter-patter and steam. 'Reset it yourself!'

'But I'm scared!' she persisted. 'What if it starts going and sucks
me in?'

There was a meaningful pause and then, 'C'mon, it'll only take you a
second.'

So out I came, dripping wet and butt naked, hoping that my silent outraged nudity would make a statement about how I perceived her behaviour as extremely cowardly.

Sighing loudly, I squatted down and stuck my head under the sink to find the button. It is the last action I remember performing. It struck without warning, and without any respect to my circumstances. No, it wasn't the hexed disposal, drawing me into its gnashing metal teeth. It was our new kitty, who discovered the fascinating dangling objects she spied hanging between my legs. She had been poised around the corner and stalked me as I reached under the sink. And, at the precise moment when I was most vulnerable, she leapt at the toys I unwittingly offered and snagged them with her needle-like claws. I lost all rational thought to control orderly bodily movements, blindly rising at a violent rate of speed, with the full weight of a kitten hanging from my masculine region.

Wild animals are sometimes faced with a 'fight or flight' syndrome. Men, in this predicament, choose only the 'flight' option I know this from experience. I was fleeing straight up into the air when the sink
and cabinet bluntly and forcefully impeded my ascent. The impact knocked me out cold.

When I awoke, my wife and the paramedics stood over me.

Now there are not many things in this life worse than finding oneself lying on the kitchen floor butt naked in front of a group of 'been-there, done-that' paramedics. Even worse, having been fully
briefed by my wife, the paramedics were all snorting loudly as they tried to conduct their work, all the while trying to suppress their hysterical laughter......and not succeeding.

Somehow I lived through it all. A few days later I finally made it back in to the office, where colleagues tried to coax an explanation out of me about my head injury. I kept silent, claiming it was too painful
to talk about, which it was.

'What's the matter?' They all asked, 'Cat got your tongue?'
 If they only knew!

China and Connecticut

Yesterday in China a farmer took a knife to 22 children and one adult at a primary school. They ended up in the hospital but no deaths were reported. Across the world in Connecticut a 24 year old male walked into an elementary school and killed 20 children and six adults. One of those adults was the shooters own mother.


Why do I bring this all up you ask. Well for starters, this is such a sad and tragic disaster. In China, while the families do not have sorrow as for as death would bring, they are grieving because they sent their child to school yesterday morning not thinking that they would next see their child at the hospital. These children are young and might be (if they are not already) traumatized by this event. Some may not want to go back to school for fear of this happening again...In Connecticut, the parents of these children sent their children to school as they continue to plan and look forward to Christmas day. Many of these parents had surprises waiting for their children and were looking forward to see their child's face as they open their gifts as well as hear the excitement in their voice. Now these same parents are instead of planning for Christmas day are planning a funeral. That just isn't right. These children didn't need to suffer or experience such a traumatic event. The shooters family I'm sure is experiencing just as much trauma and grief. They are grieving the loss of three members as well as having to deal with thinking how one of their own flesh and blood could cause such an awful crisis.


These two events that happened yesterday, has taken a toll on me. It reminded me how short and valuable life is. We need to live each day as if its our last and tell those in our lives how much we love them. It also reminds me how both good and bad people experience death. I was also reminded about my need for Jesus in my life. How does one who was directly affected by this cope and move on with life, the basic answer, Jesus and taking one day at a time. How does a person wake up and decide that today I am killing as many people as I can? My opinion, this happens because of a lack of Jesus in their life.

Anyway, my heart and prayers goes out to every family affected by those two events. The ones mourning deaths, the ones going through the healing process, and the shooters family.

God's Boxes

I have in my hands two boxes, which God gave me to hold. He said, "Put all your sorrows in the black box, and all your joys in the gold."

I heeded His words, and in the two boxes, both my joys and sorrows I stored, but though the gold became heavier each day, the black was as light as before.

With curiosity, I opened the black, I wanted to find out why, and I saw, in the base of the box, a hole, which my sorrows had fallen out by. I showed the hole to God, and mused, "I wonder where my sorrows could be!" He smiled a gentle smile and said, "My child, they're all here with me."

I asked God, why He gave me the boxes, why the gold and the black with the hole? "My child, the gold is for you to count your blessings, the black is for you to let go."

"My prayer"

This prayer originally started out as an email that someone once sent me years ago. I am not sure where this prayer originated, but it is a beautiful prayer.  However, I have since deleted parts of the prayer and have added my own words and sentiments in it. In any case, this is "my prayer".


Dear Lord,

I thank You for this day. I thank You for my being able to see and to hear this morning. I thank You that I am able to walk and run. I'm blessed because You are a forgiving God and an understanding God. You have done so much for me and You keep on blessing me.

Forgive me this day for everything I have done, said or thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for Your forgiveness. Please keep me safe from all danger and harm. Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of each and every day to clear my mind so that I can hear from You.

Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. Let me continue to see sin through God's eyes and acknowledge it as evil. And when  I sin, let me repent, and confess with my mouth my wrongdoing, and receive the forgiveness of God.

And when this world closes in on me, let me remember Jesus' example --to slip away and find a quiet place to pray. It's the best response when I'm pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I can't pray, You listen to my heart. Continue to use me to do Your will. Show and teach me Your ways and Your will.

Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. I pray for those who are lost and can't find their way. I pray for those who are misjudged and misunderstood. I pray for those who don't  know You intimately.

I believe that God changes people and God changes things. I pray for all my family members, friends and enemies. For each and every family member in their households. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes that they are out of debt and all their needs are met.

I pray that every eye that reads this knows there is no problem, circumstance, or situation greater than God. Every battle is in Your hands for You to fight. I pray that these words be received into the hearts  of every eye that sees them and every mouth that confesses them willingly.

This is my prayer.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Random but sometimes in life.....

                                        Oooo
    Some people              (    )
    come into our lives      )  /
    and quickly go..          (_ /


              oooO
               (    )       Some people
                \  (        become friends
                 \_ )    and stay awhile...


    leaving beautiful          Oooo
    footprints on our           (    )
        hearts...                       )  /
                                           ( _/


                       oooO
                       (    )      and we are
                        \  (          never
                         \_ )      quite the same

                                   because we have
                                  made a good
                                    friend!!





    Yesterday is history.
    Tomorrow a mystery.
    Today is a gift.
    That's why it's called the present!





             Right Now -

    -somebody is thinking of you.
    -somebody is caring about you.
    -somebody misses you
    -somebody wants to talk to you.
    -somebody wants to be with you.
    -somebody hopes you aren't in trouble.
    -somebody is thankful for the support you have provided.
    -somebody wants to hold your hand.
    -somebody hopes everything turns out all right.
    -somebody wants you to be happy.
    -somebody wants you to find him/her.
    -somebody is celebrating your successes.
    -somebody wants to give you a gift.
    -somebody thinks that you ARE a gift.
    -somebody loves you.
    -somebody admires your strength.
    -somebody is thinking of you and smiling.
    -somebody wants to be your shoulder to cry on.


    Never take away anyone's hope.  That may be all they have

Thought of the day: December 1, 2012

"To every sincere prayer an answer will come. It may not come just as you desire, or at the time you look for it; but it will come in the way and at the time that will best meet your need. The prayers you offer in loneliness, in weariness, in trial, God answers, not always according to your expectations, but always for your good." Gospel Workers 258

Randoms...

I just filed for divorce! Divorcing my past, divorcing my pain, divorcing my doubt, divorcing my setbacks, divorcing my failures and divorcing lack and disappointments. The Judge gave me full custody of my inheritance  full custody of my destiny, full custody of my call, full custody of my life in Him. Divorce yourself from your past so that your future can be released.


This is for all the strong people, who have made it through so much in life...I am strong because I know my weakness. I am alive because I am a fighter. I am wise because I have been foolish. And i can laugh because I have known sadness. I am here not because of myself but by the mercy and grace of a loving God.


Did you know that the people that seem the strongest are usually the most sensitive? Did you know that the people who exhibit the most kindness are usually the first to get mistreated? Did you know that the ones who take care of others all the time are usually the ones that need it the most? Did you know that the three hardest things to say are: I love you, I'm sorry and Help me?

Thought for the day: November 30, 2012

Lamentations 3: 20-27 (The Clear Word)::


When I think  of what has happened, my hears sinks in despair. But there is one thing I can recall that brings me back a glimmer of hope; the Lord's continuous love and His boundless compassion. That's why He didn't totally destroy me. His great faithfulness is new every morning, as refreshing as the dew and as sure as the sunrise. The Lord is all I have, so I have put my hope in Him. The Lord is good to those who put their hope in Him, to those who seek Him. It is good to hope in the Lord and quietly  wait for Him to help us. It is good to learn while we are still young to put our hope in the Lord and not in ourselves.

Life

I am not sure who wrote this or where this originated but its is so true. For those of you who don't drink beer, please note that "beer" can be replaced, with water, coffee, tea, lemonade, etc whatever it is that you want.





professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, he wordlessly picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full.. The students responded with a unanimous 'yes.'

The professor then produced two Beers from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar effectively filling the empty space between the sand.The students laughed..

'Now,' said the professor as the laughter subsided, 'I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things---your family, your children, your health, your friends and your favorite passions---and if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house and your car.. The sand is everything else---the small stuff.

'If you put the sand into the jar first,' he continued, 'there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life.

If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff you will never have room for the things that are important to you.

Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness.

Spend time with your children. Spend time with your parents. Visit with grandparents. Take your spouse out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house and mow the lawn.

Take care of the golf balls first---the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand.

One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the Beer represented. The professor smiled and said, 'I'm glad you asked.' The Beer just shows you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of Beers with a friend.

Things I am thankful for...

Today is Thanksgiving Day (at least here in the United States) I think we should take time each day to think about the things we are thankful for and not just wait till the holiday's to be thankful. I too am guilty for not taking time as often as I should to be thankful. My goal for the next year and going forward to remember to have a thankful heart and spirit.


Anyway, here is my list of some of the things I am thankful for this year.. Please comment and share with me the things you are thankful for.

1. Jesus--Without Him, I would be very lost in this world. He is my Lord, my Savior, my Peace, and so much more.
2. My husband--He is very patient with me and loves me unconditionally. He makes me happy and keeps me laughing. 
3. My marriage-Marriage is a full-time job but it is so much fun when you have God and the right person in your life. Thank God we have made it almost a year
4. Christina--If you remember from previous blogs, (click the link if you don't) she is battling breast cancer. Anyway, she got the results this week from her latest scan and there is no new growth. I am so thankful, she is very dear to me and I want to keep her as a friend and sister for the rest of our lives. 
5. Family--they drive me crazy sometimes but at the end of the day, they love me and want the best for me. 
6. My mother-in-law--she is one of the sweetest, most caring, and God-fearing woman I know. I definitely don't have horror stories like you hear about in-laws. We get along great and we love each other. 
7. Friends--they too drive me crazy and make me laugh. But they are there with support, advice and to laugh at my foolishness. 
8. Blue--yes the color. Its my favorite color in the world. It makes me happy.
9. Contacts and glasses-without them I can't see
10. Blackberry--I love my blackberry. I know everyone else around me is in-love with their I-phones but my blackberry does all the things I need it to. So I am content.
11. Clothes--there are so many people that don't have clothes and here I am blessed to have options of what I want to wear on any given day
12. Apartment--I have a roof over my head and warmth. My husband and I just moved to a cold climate area and the other day as we were driving around we saw a homeless person. My heart went out to him because its cold out and he has nowhere to keep warm 
13. My goddaughter--She turned 4 years old last weekend. I wasn't there to celebrate with her, but I was able to talk to her a bit. She is my pride and joy. I love her as if she were my natural born child. 
14. Sales--I hate spending money especially since I hardly ever have any. But when I do I like sales and discounts because then I can make my money stretch and get more items.
15. Forgiveness--it changes your life when you are forgiven or you have forgiven someone else
16. Blog--I am able to share my thoughts, emotions, etc with many people. 

There is so much more that I am thankful for but that gives you a glimpse into my world. Please share your list of things you are thankful for...Happy thanksgiving, to those of you who celebrate it.

Leaves

Yesterday, after stuffing our bellies with a very yummy sandwich, my husband and I headed home. As we were driving up our carport, I noticed something on the driveway. I ask my husband who was driving, "what is on the driveway?". He replies "Leaves, babe." I in a rather shocking tone reply to his statement, "From where?" He kindly and sweetly replies "Umm, from trees, hahaha". Then I realized my question and we both sat there laughing.

One Tough Teacher

This is for all of the teachers I know...

A former Sergeant, having served his time with the Marine Corps, took a new job as a school teacher, but just before the school year started, he injured his back.

He was required to wear a plaster cast around the upper part of his body. Fortunately, the cast fit under his shirt and wasn't noticeable. On the first day of class, he found himself assigned to the toughest students in the school.

The punks, having already heard the new teacher was a former Marine, were leery of him and decided to see how tough he really was before trying any pranks. Walking confidently into the rowdy classroom, the new teacher opened the window wide and sat down at his desk.

When a strong breeze made his tie flap, he picked up a stapler and promptly stapled the tie to his chest…!!!!!

There was dead silence. He had no trouble with discipline that year.

Kylie

Kylie and I met a few years ago in the hallway of our college dorm. She was carrying a case of bottled water among a million other items. She was moving in that day. I introduced myself and asked her if she would mind if I help her with her things. I explained to her that I would be her RA for the year and that if she needed anything to please let me know. I helped her to her room, then said my goodbyes and went about my business for the day. Later that same night, I went to her room to check on her, we spoke for awhile. She seemed like a very sweet person so I was looking forward to getting to know her and hopefully become her friend.

Over the next few days, we hung out a lot and I learned that Kylie and I had a lot in common. We soon became best friends and were inseparable. When her birthday came around a few weeks later, I surprised her with balloons, a spa day and lots more fun. We had such a great day. Over the next several years we became like sisters. We took each other out on dates. We would cook together. We also got stuck in a snow storm waiting for the bus. We were so cold, that we told each other that if one of us would die the other would tell their family how much they loved them. We are a crazy pair. We prayed with and for each other, encouraged each other, and so much more. I saw God from a different angle--I saw God from her eyes. And together we started a journey towards obtaining a stronger relationship with God. However, we had to part ways so our journey together ended but yet we still pray for and encourage each other.

Its been three years since we have met and Kylie is one of my best friends. (So I had to text Kylie what year we met, I swore we meet in 2007 or 2008. However, she tells me that we met Jan 2009. I promise you it feels like its been more than 3 years since I've known her). I guess that's how you know you have an amazing friendship. I haven't seen her in a few years which makes me sad and I wish I could speak to her more often. However, I know that we are friends for life and that at some point in life we will catch up as if we just saw/spoke to each other yesterday. I miss you Kylie. I hope we can talk soon.

Thought for the Day: October 21, 2012

Look back and thank God. Look forward and trust God. Look around and serve God. Look within and find God. God closes doors no man can open and God opens doors no man can close.

Snapshot of my husband

I have a wonderful man, who helps balance my whole world. He isn't perfect but he is completely perfect for me. He is a man who works hard and would do anything for me. He makes me laugh and drives me crazy (in a good way). He is my best friend. He takes care of me, and I want to grow old with him. I am thankful for him each and every day. I can't live without him. This is just a snapshot of how I see my husband.

Flowers from my husband

The first rose my husband gave me

The pictures aren't the best quality but you get the idea....

The first bouquet of roses I got from my husband

Just because he loves me

The Resume of Jesus Christ

       Address: Ephesians 1:20
       Phone: Romans 10:13
       Website: The Bible.
       Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savior and Jesus

           Hello. My name is Jesus -The Christ. Many call me Lord! I've
sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your
heart.  Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.

           Qualifications

           ·       I founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3:19)
           ·       I formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7)
           ·       I breathed into man the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7)
           ·       I redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13)
           ·       The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me, (See Galatians 3:14)

           Occupational Background

           ·       I've only had one employer, (See Luke 2:49).
           ·       I've never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful.
           ·       My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15-17)

           Skills Work Experiences

           ·       Some of my skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting
                   the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18).
           ·       I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33).
           ·       Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)

           Educational Background

           ·       I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6).
           ·       In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3).
           ·       My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105).
           ·       I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).

           Major Accomplishments

           ·       I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26).
           ·       I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15).
           ·       I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15).
           ·       I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead!
           ·       There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can read them on my website, which is located at: www. - the BIBLE. You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.

           References

           ·       Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healings, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance

           In Summation
           Now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths, (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life, (See John 6:47). When can I start? Time is of the essence, (See Hebrews 3:15).

Two Traveling Angels

Two traveling angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family. The family was rude and refused to let the angels stay in the mansion's guest room. Instead the angels were given a small space in the cold basement.

As they made their bed on the hard floor, the older angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it. When the younger angel asked why, the older angel replied, "Things aren't always what they seem."

The next night the pair came to rest at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his
wife. After sharing what little food they had the couple let the angels sleep in their bed where they could have a good night's rest.

When the sun came up the next morning the angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field. The younger angel was infuriated and asked the older angel how could you have let this happen?

The first man had everything, yet you helped him, she accused. The second family had little but was willing to share everything, and you let the cow die. "Things aren't always what they seem," the older
angel replied. "When we stayed in the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold stored in that hole in the wall.

Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't find it." "Then last night as we slept in the farmers bed, the angel of death came for his wife. I gave him the cow instead. Things aren't always what they seem."

Sometimes that is exactly what happens when things don't turn out the way they should. If you have
faith, you just need to trust that every out come is always to your advantage. You just might not
know it until some time later...

The Girl in the Pink Dress

Unknown Author

There was this little girl sitting by herself in the park. Everyone passed by her and never stopped to see why she looked so sad. Dressed in a worn pink dress, barefoot and dirty, the girl just sat and watched the people go by. She never tried to speak. She never said a word. Many people passed by her, but no one would stop.

The next day I decided to go back to the park in curiosity to see if the little girl would still be there. Yes, she was there, right in the very spot where she was yesterday, and still with the same sad look in her eyes.

Today I was to make my own move and walk over to the little girl. For as we all know, a park full of strange people is not a place for young children to play alone. As I got closer I could see the back of the little girl's dress was grotesquely shaped. I figured that was the reason people just passed by and made no effort to speak to her.

As I got closer, the little girl lowered her eyes slightly to avoid my intent stare. As I approached her, I could see the shape of her back more clearly. She was grotesquely shaped in a humped-over form.

I smiled to let her know it was OK; I was there to help, to talk. I sat down beside her and opened with a simple, "Hello." The little girl acted shocked, and stammered a "hi," after a long stare into my eyes. I smiled and she shyly smiled back.

We talked until darkness fell and the park was completely empty. I asked the girl why she was so sad. The little girl looked at me with a sad face said, "Because I'm different." I immediately said, "That you are!" and smiled. The little girl acted even sadder and said, "I know."

"Little girl," I said, "you remind me of an angel, sweet and innocent." She looked at me and smiled, then slowly she got to her feet and said, "Really?"

"Yes, you're like a little Guardian Angel sent to watch over all those people walking by." She nodded her head yes, and smiled. With that she opened the back of her pink dress and allowed her wings to spread, then she said "I am. I'm your Guardian Angel," with a twinkle in her eye. I was speechless -- sure I was seeing things.

She said, "For once you thought of someone other than yourself. My job here is done."

Be Still

The following is from my woman's devotion "Renew" edited by Ardis Dick Stenbakken.

This particular passage was written for July 19, 2012 by Raquel Quieroz de Costa Arrais.

A furious squall scame up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" Mark 4:37, 38, NIV.

I had flown many thousands of miles in the past 10 years, but this was the most violent storm I had ever encountered. Leaving the country of Moldova on a beautiful sunny day, I was on my way from Kishinev to Washington, D.C., when suddenly the airplane began to buck like a wild mustang with its first rider. For nearly 15 minutes we seemed to be surrounded by a violent wind that never ceased. I had good reason to believe that the plane would soon plummet to the earth.

The disciples had shouted to the Lord, "Save us; we're sinking!" In the same manner I began to pray. As the small plane bounced and swayed, I held tightly to the armrest. I felt fear, but as I prayed I had the assurance that God was in control, no matter what happened.

I thought more about the boat ride taken by the disciples and our Lord. Everything  was fine until the storm hit; then all the disciples grew fearful and distraught. Jesus was asleep in the bask of the boat. He was calm because He was in control. It was the disciples--and me--who let our fear get the best of us!

Almost immediately the turbulence stopped, and we continued on to our destination.

One of the blessings to come from this experience was learning that when we face a storm in our lives we have to remember three things. First, we cannot control the storms; we have to pray and let God care for us. Second, storms do not last forever. Jesus will not allow you to be overcome. You are safe in His loving protection. Sometimes He will calm the storm; sometimes He will calm your heart. Either way, He wants you to know peace in the midst of your difficulties. "Be strong, fear not!" Third, you aren't alone. There is no storm we face that Jesus hasn't already weathered. And He promises to accompany us through everything we experience.

When we are caught in the storms of life, it's easy to think that God has lost control and that we're at the mercy of the winds of fate. In reality God is sovereign. He controls the boat. As we spend time getting to know Him and experience His love, we learn to trust Him no matter how large the waves and no matter how scary the storm.

"I Couldn't Stop The Car"

This is a passage from my women's devotion "Renew" edited by Ardis Dick Stenbakken.

This passage is dated May 16, 2012 and was written by Yvonne Curry Smallwood.

For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. Ps. 91:11

Our airplane had just touched down, and not wanting to allow another minute to pass, I clicked on my cell phone and called my parents. Dad answered. "We're so glad you're back," he said, then added, "And when you come by, your mother has something interesting to tell you."

After dropping our suitcase off at our house, we drove the short distance to their home. Immediately I noticed that only one of their two cars was parked in the driveway. After a brief conversation about our vacation, I asked, "Mom, what happened to your car?"

My 77-year-old mother sighed, then began relating a story that sent a tingle down my spine. "Your dad and I were on our way to church, and as I started to apply the brakes for a red light, I had none. I couldn't stop the car!"

My eyes grew big as she continued. "I worked in vain, certain that I was going to crash into the car ahead," she said. "But then suddenly something miraculous happened." I waited, silently thanking God that they were OK. "The car eased to a stop within inches of the car in front of it."

"Angels." The word dropped freely from my lips. "Angels stopped the car." We all agreed. God in His mercy saw what was happening and dispatched an angel to come to the aid of my parents.

Later I again reflected on this situation and how good God really is. We put our trust in so many "things." We assume that an alarm clock will wake us each morning, an airplane will maintain its altitude and not fall, and that water flowing from a tap will be safe to drink. But these are only things. It is our Father who taps us on the shoulder each morning. It is God who keeps the worlds from colliding in space. It is God who sends angels to protect us. We don't see angels, but we know that God has put them in charge of us. It's often angels whom God dispatches to save us in distressing situations.

Trusting God in all things is critical to our well being. He won't leave us when we put our trust in Him. And more important, He never fails. I'm so glad that He sent an angel to stop my parents' car; I'm looking forward to saying thanks, in person to this special heavenly being!

One question, another lesson from God

As many of you know, I am a social worker by trade. I moved to a new place so that I could live with my husband. Anyway, in my new home, it is required that if I want to work as a social worker I must first take an exam to obtain my license. Therefore, I have been studying for several months for this exam. I was scheduled to take my exam on September 17. I studied, I reviewed, and throughout the whole process as with everything else I prayed for God's blessings. September 17 came and I went to the testing center prayed and then sat down for 2.5 hrs and 170 questions. The weeks prior to my exam I was certain that I was going to pass and would be on my way to my social work career. On the day of my exam, I knew in my heart that God was in control and that whatever happens it in His hand and that it will all work out in time. So with that said, the test was set for 4 hours and was a total of 170 questions. As I stated before it took me 2.5 hours to take the exam. I got the results the same day. As I finished, I said one last final prayer, pressed submit and walked to the front office to get my scores. The lady handed me a piece of paper that said I failed by one question. I barely made it back to my car before I started crying. I then proceeded to cry all the way home. When I got home, I went to my bedroom and laid in bed and cried some more.

Well then my parents, husband and mother in law remind me that God always has a plan and its always perfect.They also told me that I should see it as a fail because it was one question, its more like God saying hold on, not yet. I was upset with God because He knows how much I want to go back to working as a social worker but because of this failed exam I am not able to resume my career. But then the light-bulb in my head went off and I got the bigger picture.

This experience isn't about me or what I want. I asked for God's will to be done and that His plan and purpose for my life be fulfilled. I have no doubt that God called me to be a social worker. But as I am going through this process I learned that God lets us exercise our free will. I told Him I wanted to take this exam and when. Yes, I did ask Him for help and all, but He is also not going to force me to go His way. It is my choice. I must deal with the consequences of my decisions. He does, however, still have our back when we make our own plans. So while yes, I don't have my social work license, I do have a lesson from God. He has me where He wants me for now. In His time, I will retake my exam and pass and be able to enter the world of social work. Till then, I can still help people that I come across in my every day going. I don't have to be in an office to help someone out. I finally understand the concept that my timing and God's timing is TWO different timetables.

Your Driver Today Is......

This is an entry from my woman's devotion dated January 11 written by Ardis Dick Stenbakken

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go: I will counsel you and watch over you. Ps. 32: 8, NIV

I felt anxious and stressed as I stepped onto the shuttle bus that ran from the long-term airport parking lot to terminal. It was still early in the morning, but I'd been up a couple hours putting last-minute items in my suitcase, getting my water bottle filled-well, you know how it is just before you leave on a trip. As usual, I wished I had at least another day to get everything ready to leave home. I had driven the hour to the airport, parked the car, and gotten my suitcase, carry-on bag, purse, and papers gathered up and transferred. What had I forgotten? Would the security lines be as bad as they'd been last time? Would I have time to get something to eat before I needed to board my flight? So many concerns!

But now I settles into my seat on the shuttle and looked around. And then I saw it. There, above the windshield, was a small sign that read: "Your driver for today is: Jesus."

I smiled, took a deep breath, and relaxed. Jesus was my driver. I didn't need to be stressed anymore. Now, I know that Jesus is a common Hispanic name, and the sign really had nothing to do with my Lord and Redeemer. However, it did remind me that if I let Jesus, my God, be my driver, be in control of my day and my life, I could relax. My blood pressure could return to normal, and I could my day. When I let Jesus take control, I can know that what happens is something that God wants, or allows, to happen.

I find this promise of how it can work so reassuring: "May the God of peace,...that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen" (Heb. 13:20, 21, NIV).

How about you? Is Jesus your driver today? As we begin a new year it is so important that I allow Jesus to be my driver. Not only must I let Him be my driver--I must also let Him pick the destination an how I will get there. Handing over control can be so hard, but so rewarding!

I think it is time for me to move out of the driver's seat and let Jesus take over permanently--and no backseat driving!

"Kayla"

Eleven days ago, my mother sent me an email that said "Kayla Brown said to please call her, her number is (123) 456-7890". I immediately called my mother and asked "Kayla Brown from years ago"? She said yes and began to explain to me how they ran into each other. I was so shocked that I had to call Kayla that same day. So here is the story of my dear friend Kayla.

Years ago I met a girl name Kayla, in our BIO 181 science class at a local community college.  We then became friends. We were inseparable for the next several years. I would take Kayla to church with me, or to my house to hang out with my family, to the mall, and to my work place (in fact she met my husband back then as my husband and I were coworkers at the time). She would try to get me to watch scary movies with her, but I am a wimp and wouldn't watch anything that had a hint of horror in it. I love the snack wheat thins, which she religiously called "tasteless thins". We also had amusing debates on why I was a vegetarian and why I thought she should be one.We also use to make bets on our lives. She won the "You are getting married first" bet, however, neither one of us remembers what our bets were, haha. Good times with my dear Kayla. We somehow lost contact with each other about 3 or 4 years ago.

Well as God, would have it, Kayla started her last set of nursing clinicals at the same hospital my mother works at. Her professor was talking to my mother, when Kayla recognized her and called her name. She reports that she was so excited to see my mother and began asking questions of how I was, etc. Anyway, ever since that random run-in with my mother, Kayla and I have been in communication with each other and have somewhat picked up were we left off. I am so happy and thankful to God for reconnecting us. We have birthday's in the same month, and just had a lot of fun with each other. I love her laugh, it is so contagious.  I really feel that God orchestrated Kayla's clinical path so that she would run into my mother so that we could reconnect. I sure did miss her. Welcome back to my life Kayla.

Lady Driver over 65

A mature (over 65) lady gets pulled over for speeding...

Older woman: Is there a problem, Officer?
Officer: Ma'am, you were speeding.
Older woman: Oh, I see.
Officer: Can I see your license please?
Older woman: I'd give it to you but I don't have one.
Officer: Don't have one?
Older Woman: Lost it, 4 years ago for drunk driving.
Officer: I see..Can I see your vehicle registration papers please.
Older Woman: I can't do that.
Officer: why not?
Older woman: I stole this car.
Officer: Stole it?
Older woman: Yes, and I killed and hacked up the owner.
Officer: You what?
Older woman: His body parts are in plastic bags in the trunk if you want to see.

The officer looks at the woman and slowly backs away to his car and calls for back up. Within minutes 5 police cars circle the car. A senior officer slowly approaches the car, clasping his half drawn gun.

Officer 2: Ma'am, could you step out of your vehicle please! The woman steps out of her vehicle.
Older woman: Is there a problem sir?
Officer 2: One of my officers told me that you have stolen this car and murdered the owner.
Older woman: Murdered the owner?
Officer 2: Yes, could you please open the trunk of your car, please?

The woman opens the trunk, revealing nothing but an empty trunk.

Officer 2: Is this your car, ma'am?
Older woman: Yes, here are the registration papers. The officer is quite stunned.
Officer 2: One of my officers claims that you do not have a driving license.

The woman digs into her handbag and pulls out a clutch purse and hands it to the officer.The officer examines the license. He looks quite puzzled.

Officer 2: Thank you ma'am, one of my officers told me you didn't have a license, that you stole this car, and that you murdered and hacked up the owner.
Older woman: Bet the liar told you I was speeding, too.

Don't mess with mature ladies, lol

WordRival

Back when my husband had a blackberry and we had been dating for just a month or two, he introduced me to the game WordRival. We played often until he went off to boot camp and got a different phone. Well I still have my blackberry and I still play WordRival. But since I no longer had my husband to play with, I just play random opponents. A few months ago, I started playing this particular opponent. As our game was coming to an end, my opponent asked me if I wanted to play again, we then played four more games. Shortly after that, we shared our names with each other and found out that we both were playing on our blackberry. We have since become friends. She lives in Canada and is just a sweet person, I love talking with her (we have a lot in common). I have learned a lot from her and she has been an encouragement to me. I am so very glad we "met". We communicate almost weekly and are still playing WordRival and have started playing another game (WordCraze) together, lol. Oh how technology and a simple word game connects people.

Thought for the Day: September 29, 2012

Hello my dear readers, I know it has been a while, I am back....Here is your thought for today:



When we pray, God hears more than we say, answers more than we ask, gives more than we imagine...in His own time and in His own way...:)

Have a great day everyone.

Thought for the day: August 23, 2012

Today is August 23, 2012 the thought for the day according to me is:

"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around."
~~Leo Buscaglia

Camila-Besme

Besame y a destiempo
sin piedad y en silencio
Besame frena el tiempo
has crecer lo que siento

Besame como si el mundo se acabara despues
Besame y beso a beso pon el cielo al reves
Besame sin razon porque quiere el corazon
Besame...

Sienteme en el viento
mientras yo muero lento
Besame sin motivos
y esta vez siempre contigo

Besame como si el mundo se acabara despues
Besame y beso a beso pon el cielo al reves
Besame sin razon porque quiere el corazon
Besame...

Besame, besame como si el mundo se acabara despues
Besame y beso a beso pon el cielo al reves
Besame sin razon porque quiere el corazon
Besame...

Besame asi sin compasion
Quedate en mi sin condicion
Dame tan solo un motivo y me quedo yo
Y me quedo yo [3x]


Copied from MetroLyrics.com

Carlos Baute--Colgando en tus manos

Quizá no fue coincidencia encontrarme contigo...
Tal vez esto lo hizo el destino...
Quiero dormirme de nuevo en tu pecho...
y después me despierten tus besos.

Tu sexto sentido sueña conmigo,
se que pronto estaremos unidos.
Esa sonrisa traviesa que vive conmigo.
se que pronto estaré en tu camino.

Sabes que estoy colgando en tus manos,
asi que no me dejes caer.
Sabes que estoy colgando en tus manos.

Te envío poemas de mi puño y letra.
Te envío canciones de 4:40.
Te envío las fotos cenando
en Marbella y cuando estuvimos por Venezuela.

Y así me recuerdes y tengas presente,
que mi corazón está colgando en tus manos.
Cuidado, cuidado, que mi corazon està colgando en tus manos.

No perderé la esperanza de hablar contigo.
No me importa que dice el destino.
Quiero tener tu fragrancia conmigo.
Y beberme de ti todo lo prohibido.

Sabes que estoy colgando en tus manos,
asi que no me dejes caer.
Sabes que estoy colgando en tus manos.

Te envío poemas de mi puño y letra.
Te envío canciones de 4:40.
Te envío las fotos cenando
en Marbella y cuando estuvimos por Venezuela.

Y así asì me recuerdes y tengas presente
que mi corazòn està colgando en tus manos.
Cuidado, cuidado, mucho cuidado, cuidado.

Marta yo te digo me tienes en tus manos.
Cuidado, mucho cuidado.

No importa que diga el destino quedate conmigo
cuidado, mucho cuidado,

Lo quiero todo de ti
Tus labios, tu cariño, lo prohibido.

Te envío poemas de mi puño y letra.
Te envío canciones de 4:40.
Te envío las fotos cenando
en Marbella y cuando estuvimos por Venezuela.

Y asì me recuerdes y tengas presente,
Que mi corazon està colgando en tus manos
cuidado, cuidado...

Que mi corazon està colgando en tus manos
que mi corazon està colgando en tus manos
que mi corazon estò colgando en tus mano

Matthew West-Strong Enough

Mikeschair--Let the Waters Rise

My 28th birthday...

Last week I turned 28 years old. I don't feel old and I certainly don't act like a 28 year old at all times. I did not see myself married at 28 but here I am happily married. And my husband made my first birthday away from my family quite an amazing one. On my actual birthday (Thursday) my husband bought me a gps. I am directionally challenged so this is a very useful and helpful gift :)
He also ordered a specialized homemade birthday which was incredibly delicious. The following day (Friday), he threw me a surprise party. Then on Saturday, was my grand finale, he took me on a dinner/movie date. It was indeed a great weekend.



Other enjoyable gifts I received were from my brother. He bought me an eco-tea-cup  and a box of crayola nail polish. Its been fun stuff. I think everyone should get a gps, an eco-cup and crayola nail polish.

My new chapter of life has been kicked off on a great note. I am looking forward to see what God and life has designed for me.

Sometimes life just isn't fair

I need to vent, so I apologize for those reading this post that gets offended or upset due to my thoughts and feelings at the moment. But this is something I am working through on my own.

Lately, I have heard from several people in my life about other people who have had "life" happen to them. And it just makes me mad because life isn't fair and I wish it could be. 

In the place were I used to live for the past 2 years, there have been several people who have become pregnant out of wedlock. Now, I am not judging by any means. I know we all make mistakes. The thing about it that gets me so upset is that the various people I have heard about have been one of the followings: a recent high school graduate; a college student; a woman with children that have multiple fathers; a person who has no job, no education and doesn't have stable housing; and the list goes on. Given there situation, all of them are getting celebrated, having a baby shower, and the whole nine. In all honesty, I am happy for them. They are going to need all the support they can get because "life" just got taken to another level and is about to become even more challenging. I do not envy them in that regards and I wish them all the best and that they recieve continued support from their friends and family. 

Why does this bother me you ask? Well, when I got engaged to my best friend over a year ago, I was forced to call off my engagement. Several people who I thought were special people in my life told me that the only reason I was getting married was because I was pregnant, and many other cruel statements. In order to get people off my back and to cope with finishing my masters, working a full-time job and a full-time internship, and trying to maintain a healthy relationship with my boyfriend who was getting ready to leave for boot-camp; I called off my engagement. During the weeks and months that followed, it was pure hell. I had several discussions with people who thought (and still think) I was/am pregnant and/or making the biggest mistake of my life. Anyway, things somewhat worked out in the end and I am now happily married.

But I never got my engagement party or my bachelorette party. I did have a simple, quaint and beautiful wedding which I am totally grateful for. But I still wish I had more than the handful of people I had supporting me and was able to actually be happy about me being engaged or getting married. I do realize that it is probably my fault since I did things a little backwards by not having my husband ask my dad and brother permission to marry me. But I don't think that it is fair that people, who got caught in a moment and are now having a baby gets all the parties while, here I am without a child, a bachelors, and a masters degree, and a full-time job at the time was unable to celebrate in my moment of happiness and joy. In fact, what should have been one of my happiest times in life turned out to be a very long, hard, depressing, life-learning experiences I have ever had. I felt and still do believe that getting engaged and married was not a mistake for me. It may have been a bit on the rapid scale but in the end, I felt and believed (still do) that this is where God was leading me.

I know it isn't right for me to be so upset that they get the party and I just have to settle that at least I got my simple wedding and am to this day still NOT pregnant like many people were secretly hoping for in a very negative way. But it really does upset me and makes me bitter. I know that this is something I need to get over because I will never get my engagement party or a bachelorette party. I must and will move on, but in the mean time I had to process this part of my feelings so that I can move on. I learned a valuable lesson, even though I may not agree with how one is living their life, I should never judge them and if they come to me asking for my help, support, or encouragement to stick with what they believe is right for their life; I must put my own reservations to the side (especially if the person and I were able to talk about my reservation in a very caring way prior) and lend a hand in whatever way that I am able to. Well, as I work these feelings and thoughts (yes I have left out some parts, I figure you are getting the idea as you read this) out, I become a better and stronger person because of my experience. I hope that whatever you are going through in your own life, you have friends and family who support you as you make your decisions and walk through your valley of life.

Puppet Street Show

I thought this was a good video.

Making magnets

Yesterday, my darling friend Christina introduced me to the art of making magnets. These are the three that I made for some of the special people in my life. I think that I will continue this project and make it one of my new hobbies in life.

J Moss Good and Bad

This is one of my favorite songs right now....

Christina, Target and a trip to the Emergency Room

The Lord is truly looking out for my best. Yesterday, I was supposed to have lunch with a young girl who just graduated from high school, however, her mother called me on Tuesday night to let me know that she had a doctors appointment and that she wouldn't be available during the time I could go to lunch. So I made other plans, but now as I look back on my day yesterday, I am convinced God was orchestrating the whole thing....

Yesterday morning, I went to the doctor to have a minor procedure done. I left the office and drove home. My wonderful husband surprised me and came home for lunch so we went to lunch together. We got back home and we said our goodbyes as I was going to meet up with Christina (you met her a few blogs ago) at Target and he had to go back to work.

I make it all the way to Target, meet up with Christina and we start shopping. We are in Target for maybe ten or fifteen minutes when all of a sudden the store started spinning and I say to Christina I need to sit down. So I sit down on the floor at the edge of the card isle. I sit there for a few minutes and think I am starting to feel better when all of a sudden, I start to feel like I am going to pass out. Christina goes to get me a bottle of water, when she returns I sip some of the water as she fans me (at that time I feel hot). Anyway, we decide that maybe we should call for help.

To cut a long story short, I ended up being transported to the Emergency Room. They never could find out what was wrong with me but I was able to get discharged and returned home. Christina called my husband who was freaking out and rushed home as soon as he could. While Christina, waited with me for my darling husband to get home, we sat and had great conversation and looked at videos, and books.

So here is why I truly believe God orchestrated this thing, had I been with the high school graduate, I wouldn't have had a way home as she does not have a car or a drivers license. I don't think she would have been able to handle all of the "Fun" that was experienced by all yesterday. Christina, on the other hand, remained calmed, prayed for and with me and was able to leave a message for my husband since I was in no shape or form capable of doing myself. Christina was able to drive me home and keep me company both at the emergency room and home. I was able to share some videos and books with Christina.

At the end of the day, it was God, my husband and Christina that were with me when I needed them the most. I love them.

"Just Stop and Think"

This clip is from the book Crazy Love by Francis Chan. If you are looking for a book to help you with your relationship and journey to and with God, this is one of those books to read. I haven't completed the book yet. But it has some powerful, life changing concepts. But if you don't have the book or access to the book, this short 15 minute video sums it up quite nicely.

June 27, 2012 Thought for the day

God always has something for you, a key for every problem, a light for every shadow, a relief for every sorrow and a plan for every tomorrow.

Awake in the middle of the night...

So as you all know (but more so for the new readers) whenever I talk about those that are close to my heart, I change their name to protect their identity. So with that said, let me tell you about the experience I had last night.

For the past few days I have been waking up in the middle of the night for two or three hours at a time. I pray, make mental to-do-list, ponder blog post ideas, and even have text message conversations with family and friends. Usually, I am frustrated because after doing all of that I still am wide awake and am unable to fall back asleep.

However, last night was different. I woke up like usual around midnight and decided that I would send a text message to my "Gerber Daisy". I asked her if she had completed her quizzes and if she was still up by chance to talk with me till I fell asleep again. She replies, that she had totally forgotten about the quizzes.

While having a conversation with "Gerber Daisy", I started another text conversation with my "cousin, the Preacher" (he is a friend from my college days, we adopted each other as cousins). Anyway, in the middle of the conversation, I tell him that I stalk his blog. He then tells me that he has been trying to figure out who that was.

So last nights, random hours of lack of sleep provided very positive. I helped my "gerber daisy"out and gained a new reader. LOL

June 19, 2012 Thought for the day

I can't say that this is always true in my experience but in some cases this is true and good advice.


"Remember, you can't reach for what's in front of you until you let go of what's behind you." ~~Author Unknown

June 15, 2012 Thought For the Day

I was talking to my "Gerber Daisy" (you might remember her from a previous post) this morning and telling her that I think that I should start doing a thought for the day on my blog. She thought it was a good idea. So this will be my first thought for the day. But I should give you all a disclaimer, as you know I am not very good at posting something on a daily basis so please don't expect a thought for the day on a daily basis. I do, however, promise that as I come up with them or see them I will add it to my blog so that you have your thought for day. Is that ok with you all? Without further ado, here is your thought of the day for June 15, 2012.

Sometimes all you can do is not think, not wonder, not imagine, not obsess. Just breathe, and have faith that everything will work out for the best.

*Christina*

This blog is about a person I just met a few months ago. I have changed her name to honor her privacy. I will call her Christina. I met her at a conference this past April. We were waiting for the program to start. We had a short conversation and exchanged numbers and said we would keep in contact. Over the next several weeks we would exchange texts and try to set up a meeting time. Well we finally were able to meet up this past weekend and what a delightful time I had with her.

Christina took my husband and I on a tour of downtown. It was so much fun and I learned about new places I can try in my new home state. Anyway as we spent the next few hours together, Christina shared her story with me. She truly inspired me. Christina is such a sweet, gentle, genuine, and kind person. She has such a beautiful spirit about her and personality. I am looking forward to getting to know her more. She is currently battling breast cancer (at such a young age) but has such a positive attitude towards it. She also shared with me that she is a new christian and her love for God and excitement for where God is leading her.

Something she said to me that has made me work on changing my perspective in life was that she has found her cancer to be a blessing in many ways.

How many of us have had a diagnosis that shattered our world and instead of seeing the blessing we see a curse and fall into a dark mood? How many times do we look at a situation in our life that we deem as a negative or a curse and can honestly say its a blessing? How many times do the people around us make us feel like we need to lose hope or find a reason for hope? I know in my life I don't always find the positive things in my negative situations. I try to but sometimes it just seems so dark. Here it is, this beautiful young woman has had a dark cloud come over her and yet she is able to walk with her head held hi and a huge gorgeous smile on her face. Truly an inspiration. She has taken life by the horns with God carrying her through and has embraced her new walk of life. I hope that as I continue to learn and grow in life that I am able to remember to hold me head up high, keep a smile on my face and turn to God to work it all out for me.

Anyway, my dear readers, I know a few of you have prayed along the way with me so I ask you now that if you have a chance and remember my friend Christina that you pray for her and ask God to continue to heal her and/or keep her positive outlook. In either case God's will be done...Thank you I truly appreciate it.

Things I have learned from children

I recently started working with children (6 weeks to age 2) again and these are just a few of the lessons I have learned (please keep in mind this is very general). I have taken my observation of these children and compared it to my daily life and my relationship with God...

1. Children generally enjoy and need to be held. (I need to be held at times, but above all do I let God hold me?)
2. Children generally love everyone. (Do I take the time to love those around me or the people I meet on a daily basis).
3. When a child is in need of something they go to the adult reach out their hand and in their little way ask for help. (Do I go to God when I need help? Do I remember to reach my hand out to Him and ask for help or do I try to solve my problems on my own?)
4. Children generally want to help you with whatever you are doing. (Do I take the time to help others?)
5. Children love hugs. (I love hugs, do I give them out especially when needed? Do I get hugged when I need it the most?)
6. Children are generally and genuinely happy with life. (Despite my issues, do I let myself be generally and genuinely happy? Things could always be worse so I need to remember to be positive and happy.)

You are not special

This is one of the best speeches I have heard in a while...

Her Heart--Anthony Hamilton

Dear Life--Anthony Hamiliton

Personalized Passage

The following is from my devotional book Renew editor Ardis Dick Stenbakken page 121...

This particular passage was written by Maxine Williams Allen for April 22 and is entitled Personalized Passage.


The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. Psalms 23:1


As I closed the book I decided to take the challenge offered by the writer to take a favorite verse of Scripture and personalize it. "The Lord was speaking to you right then in your situation," the author had admonished. I chose Psalm 23, and what I needed that day---that very moment---was for the Lord to be my very own personal motivational coach. So I wrote:

"The Lord is my motivational coach, I shall not lack confidence.

"He maketh me to lie down when I need rest; He leads me beside the quiet waters of reflective time to rebuild my strength.

"He restores my battered self-esteem.

"He guides me in paths that are right for me---though I may not understand---for His name's glory.

"Even though I go through situations that are emotionally dark, barren lowlands, You will give me the inner courage necessary to proceed without fear of the situation or of evildoers.

"You empower me, Lord, through intermittent use of Your rod and Your staff---that comforts me.

"You prepare a banquet of encouragement for me to envision the completed goal, even in the midst of naysayers, the jealous, the spirit assassins, the discouragers.

"You anoint my head with the balm of Your peace for my conflicted mind; my emotional cup overflows with gratitude for Your love and grace.

"Surely Your goodness and mercy will continue to pursue me all the days of my life, reminding me that my goal is to dwell in Your house---forever."

Why not take the challenge and personalize a passage today? God wrote all of Scripture to speak to you personally. We can appreciate that more when we personalize the test to our situation.

When I personalize, I hear God speaking to me through the verses, reaching to the depths of my present need, providing the answer even to my unspoken questions, and providing direction when I don't even realize that I've lost my way.

Maxine Williams Allen

40 miles and locked out...

My life for the past few days have been nothing short of eventful. IF you are reading this please be prepared to laugh at me....(I apologize in advance this is a long one)

Friday:
I was having a rough week and decided that I needed to pamper myself. So I treated myself to a hair trim and a pedicure. After my pedicure I felt better and decided to go home change my outfit and go to the agency in town that had a job opening but wanted applicants to apply in person. I got home changed and went on my merry way. After dropping off my resume I drove down a few blocks and found a Target (so you know I just had to stop). However, before I could get there I saw my cellphone service company across the parking lot. I figured how convenient I can milk two cows with one hand. So I stopped at the cellphone store and asked if I could get my phone fixed. They said yes it would be about an hour to an hour and a half. I didn't have a problem for across the parking lot was my favorite store Target. So I walk over to Target and enjoyed browsing and shopping. After I had enough and spent more money than I should have I walked backed to my car to drop off my new belongings. I then proceeded to walk across the parking lot back to the other stores in this shopping plaza. An hour and a half finally passed so I made my way back to the cellphone store to check the progress of my phone. When I get there I am told that what they did the first time did not work so they are working on Plan B and needed about another forty five minutes. So I said ok and went next door to eat some lunch.

After my small sandwich and drink, I decided to walk back to the other side of the shopping plaza and walk around in the other stores. I walked through five different stores and then headed back for my phone. At last my phone is working so I take my phone and head back to the car. I get in the car and head home (or so I thought). Ten minutes pass and I realize that none of the streets look familiar so I decided to turn on the GPS that comes on my phone. However, to my dismay, the GPS and several other applications were not loaded back onto my phone. So I decided ok I will just make a u-turn and head back to the cellphone store. I made the u-turn and drove and drove. After quite some time I ask myself why haven't I seen the store yet. I then realize I am terribly lost and have no GPS to help me out. I look at the clock and realize I still have about twenty minutes before I can call my husband to help me. So I take matters into my own hands. Instead of making another u-turn, (since the first one didn't help me out any) I decided I should make a left or a right (I can't remember which I actually made). I keep driving and driving. There isn't a sign for anything I recognize. No McDonalds, Taco Bell, Target, Walgreens, CVS, gas stations, etc...nothing for miles..I can't even remember the last time I saw a street name.

Finally my husband calls me and asks "where are you?" I reply, "I have no clue please help me". He replies "what street are you on?" My reply "couldn't tell you, I have seen a street name for miles". "Oh Lord, babe" was his reply. "Tell me when you see a street name" as he continues to talk to me. I finally see one after being on the phone for five minutes. I tell him and he gives me directions to get back home. We hang up and I follow the directions. Half way through the directions, guess what I find on the left hand side of the road? You got it, the cellphone store and the Target that I was at earlier. So I pulled in and asked them to put back the standard applications that came with my phone. They apologized for the inconvenience and reprogrammed my phone. I didn't leave the store till I checked every application to make sure it was on my phone and working.

So I get back in the car and continue with my husband's directions and finally make it home. He then tells me "You never cease to amaze me. Let me show you how far you were". So he pulls up google maps and shows me...I was 40 miles out of town, which means I was 55 miles from the house. Lol, never a dull moment when I am around.



Monday
My neighbor went for an afternoon two mile walk. We get back to our street, I open the door and leave the doors unlocked. I started with my afternoon chores around the house. I started in the kitchen. I realized that I left my "make-shift" recycling bin in the car. So I grab my car key, made sure the door was unlocked and head out to the car port. I pull the door in as to not let the bugs in the house. When I get back to the door from getting my container out of the car I turned the knob and realized I have locked myself out of the house. Apparently I forgot I had left the door unlocked and when coming back outside I turned the lever on the knob and locked it without realizing it. So I walk to my neighbors door and ask if I can borrow her phone to call maintenance to let me back in my life. We laughed for a few moments and then called and ten minutes later I am back in my house.