Discovery

Have you even found something worthwhile? Where did you find it? Was it located in an "easy, out-in-the-open" place? Or, did you have to DIG FOR THE TREASURE? Was it buried under piles of trash?

Jesus talked about the kingdom of heaven being like a treasure....

Matthew 13:44-46 (King James Version)

⁴⁴Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.

⁴⁵Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:

⁴⁶Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.

How much is the "treasure" of heaven worth to you?

Matthew 16:25-26 (King James Version)

²⁵For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

²⁶For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

Heaven's rules are different than our rules....

~ You must Give to Receive

~ You must Forgive to be Forgiven

~ You must Seek to Find

~ You must Knock for the door to open

~ You must Ask and you shall Receive

~ You must Humble yourself to be Exalted

Seeking, Discovering, Wanting... all important factors to keep "learning" while on life's journey.

“When we seek to discover the best in others, we somehow bring out the best in ourselves.” William Arthur Ward

“Learning is the discovery that something is possible” Fritz Perls

“Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought.” Albert Szent-Gyorgyi

“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” Andre Gide quotes

“We discover in others what others hide from us, and we recognize in others what we hide from ourselves.” Vauvenargues, Marquis de

“One of the greatest discoveries a man makes, one of his greatest surprises, is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn't” Henry Ford


I want to learn to "stretch my limits"... "outgrow" my normal requirements and try new things, believe new options.... discover that God is infinite, BIG and limitless.




May I be like the lady in this picture....saw it and she really inspired me! Be careful in life, don't hurt anyone, but take a few risks! Jesus went into enemy territory to help many, may I do the same.... Maybe you'll see me driving by some day.... you can either join me or wave as I fly (drive) by.

Remember it's never too late to discover... what you find will be up to you!

Belly Laughs

I love to laugh. To me, life is boring without some good, clean, honest fun thrown in!

“Laugh a lot, and when you're older, all your wrinkles will be in the right places”

So, as I find/receive some funny jokes or cartoons, I like to share them with you, my wonderful friends. Wish we could be together when you look at these, but you can know for sure.... I am laughing right along with you!

Did you hear about the $3 million Redneck Lottery ?

The winner gets $3.00 a year for a million years.

Redneck Garden

Redneck Helmet

Redneck Yacht

Redneck Car Alarm

Redneck Weather Station

Redneck Road Trip

Redneck Weenie Roast

Redneck Alarm System

“If every word I said could make you laugh, I'd talk forever...”

Wishing you all the fun today that you can handle...I'm sure gonna get my share! :O)

TODAY

Today I ~

Awake and thank God for another peak at the world.

Hug my hubby and kiss him good-bye.... all the while thinking, "He is such a hunk, how did I ever deserve such a sweet/gorgeous guy?"

Look in my closet and have MULTIPLE choices to wear.

Run a warm bubble-bath and name each of my friends, family off to the Lord. (Yes, a busy working woman must use every moment given!)

Know my children will give me a call and just ask, "What's up?" My favorite time of day...

Go to a job that is so God/Family oriented that we talk about both on a regular basis!

Get to make sure my bills are paid...I just love it when the electric and water are running!

Will help my Auditors pick through my past fiscal year and look for loopholes.

Talk to my Board at our monthly meeting and discuss ways to keep our company solvent/productive and fun for the senior population of our county.

Sit down to dinner with my hubby and sister-in-law....we will share, laugh and enjoy the evening.

Get to eat at least three meals. (More if I desire to snack some!)

Can drive my car to work and around....

Enjoy the sun, rain or whatever weather we are allowed to share.

TODAY I GET TO LIVE. I am smiling already....:D

Hometown Cooking - Recipe #1

(My plate of FLITTERS: You will notice is already one short ! When it is this good, you HAVE to eat as soon as it comes out of the skillet!)

Being raised in "rural" WV, I had some wonderful cooking tips handed down to me... from some wonderful "country cooks". What fun! Over the course of.... well, from here till whenever, I am going to periodically share some of our favorites with you!

When I first got married, I had only "perfected" a few cooking specialties. Like most of us, being a good cook takes practice. When my children were toddlers, we moved to an area where there were limited "fast food chains", so our family just "recreated" all the usual favorites. The "McBride Taco Salad" has become a standard favorite. (Be watching for that recipe blog very shortly!).

Today, I want to share a simple recipe for "Flitters". You may laugh and ask, "What is a FLITTER?" Well, a flitter is a bread-like, pancake that you can make quickly and easily. I have made both flour and cornmeal flitters.

Flour Flitter ingredients:

Flour (I use self-rising Hudson Cream Flour...the BEST!)
Buttermilk
Water
Oil/Skillet

Cornmeal Flitter ingredients:

Cornmeal (I like to use Martha White Buttermilk Cornmeal)
1 Egg
Milk
Oil/Skillet

Of course, a true country cook never measures her ingredients, so you'll just have to mix the above items to your liking...that's how we roll! Some people like a more "crispy" flitter, so you would make the batter thinner. Some like a more "cake like" flitter, so you would keep the batter thicker. If you like a "sweeter" cornbread, you may want to put a little sugar in the cornmeal flitter.

Just like cooking pancakes, the flitter must be cooked in a "HOT" skillet. If you are like me, the first one is always too greasy....soaks up too much oil. I have to admit, I am anxious and do not wait for the skillet/griddle to get hot enough. But, the second (and subsequent) flitters are perfection! Cook to your desired tenderness, crunchy or fluffy!

Flitters are best served HOT and with such choices as;

Beans (Brown, Pinto, Northern, Navy...), Sliced Tomatoes, Fried Potatoes, Kraut w/Keilbasa and Green Onions on the side. YUMMY!

They are very quick to make, helping the busy mother/wife to put a nice meal on the table without taking all day.

I am a firm believer that a good meal can be prepared in under thirty minutes. Yes, I take longer when I am making a special meat or casserole, but when the hubby is hungry, let's get it on the table a.s.a.p! Keep him (and the kiddies) happy... you are happy....everybody's happy! :)

I have to admit that I did not come up with the FLITTER recipe myself. My mother-in-law makes the very best in the world! I told her she could put up a bean & flitter sign and make a fortune. She has showed me how to cook some awesome meals, and I will continue to share her secrets with you!

So, next time you want to add something a little "special" to your ordinary meal, whip up a "Flitter". Your family will love them, smile and ask for more!

Strength for the task

Since I have never been a military soldier, I am overwhelmed by the courage and commitment that I see in the men/women of our armed forces. Trying to explain their brave hearts or unselfish acts would be unfair...to them. They are what they are ~ They do what they do ~ it is protection in it's rawest form..... right in the heat of the fight!

Today I will TRY to say thanks. With Memorial Day just past, I realize that the need to appreciate our soldiers is greater than ever before. Veteran's Day is nice to honor the living, and Memorial Day is there to honor those who gave the greatest sacrifice for us, to have a "free" America.

My father served in the Army when he was VERY young. Luckily (and from much prayers of my Grandparents) he returned safely from the Korean War, serving time in Korea and Japan. Although he talked of his experiences, I never told him thanks.

As a youth, many times we take the "strength and courage" of others for granite. Reflection, many times, will remind us of the simple tasks that others have completed that makes our life easier today. We should be thankful, we should express our thanks.... not wait.



Since I have never had to be commanded to go into the "heat of the battle", I marvel at the fortitude (guts, grit, stamina and determination) of the soldiers mind. When you read or see a soldier "readying their mind" for service, many times you will see them praying. They know that the ultimate strength and protection comes from above.




As we face ANYTHING in life, may we be wise enough to follow the soldier's example.... seek help, ask guidance and pray for protection/knowledge from HIM.

Ephesians 6:10-12 (King James Version)

¹⁰Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

¹¹Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

¹²For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Yes, we are in a spiritual battle. We must have help. We CANNOT complete the task on our own.

There is a beautiful old song that The Hemphill's sang that said:

There's not one hole in my armour

Jesus covers me well

I'll never fall, if I wear it all

Satan's darts cannot prevail

Yes, we are in a spiritual battle. May I be smart enough to ask for strength for the task...

Sometimes the answer is "NO"

I love these pictures of Aliyah, "Sissy", my little grand-daughter. She was at our house for a visit last week. The pictures were taken in front of our fireplace. For some reason (probably because she is NOT suppose to!) she LOVES to reach in and open the chimney damper. As you can see, she knew she was not to touch, but her eyes told it all!

How I would love to pull that chain, how VERY MUCH I want to pull that chain HARD!

With toys scattered all over the house, she would rather play with a chain in the chimney!

Just like all of us, sometimes we want what we can not have. Why are the "untouchable" things in life so appealing to us?

I know someone who will not take "NO" for an answer. Don't you DARE tell her that she cannot do something! She will "hair-lip" the devil to make it so! Talk about STUBBORN.....when you look up the word in the dictionary, it has her picture. I have watched as she allowed this personality trait to cause so much chaos in her life. If only she could accept a "NO".

From personal experience, I know that being told "NO" is very unpleasant ~ It goes against the grain ~ against our wills. We may feel that it "inhibits" our natural process and successes. Will we listen to the command/warning, or do it anyways? Which way to choose?

Just this week, I read some postings on FB from friends. They were discussing how "smart their parents were". Throughout our "growing up years", there are many times that we may feel that parents do not understand, or are TRYING to make sure we do not have fun. It does not look/seem like they do not have our best interests at heart. NOT SO! A good, Godly parent CAN lead you safely through adulthood (with the help of the LORD!). Being thankful for the guidance is the key.

I want to interject right here.... humans are not infallible. Even a good parent makes mistakes! Often I have asked my girls to overlook my faults just as I have overlooked theirs....because we love each other. To truly love is to see past/beyond the imperfect parts and see the "true heart" of another. My decisions on their behalf may not have been the best choices, but they were made with love and caring. Of course, once they have reached adulthood, it is their time to try on the "decision making" skills. I'm sure they have found out that is is not as fun as they dreamed it would be. I also have learned to respect their decisions as I hope they continue to respect mine. We can now often "agree to disagree" without estrangement.

All I know is, when I seek HIS will/way in my life, I have to respect HIS decision. Realizing that HE sees the "Whole Picture" and loves me beyond belief, is enough to know that I can bank on HIS answers ~ HIS command ~ HIS suggestions ~ HIS guidance.

I want to also see all the positive ways that HE leads me, and protects me... just like we do with our loved ones. May I not throw a fit or get mad at an executive order. Heaven's command is ultimate ~ timely and perfect. May I be smart enough to admit that....

The "WHOLE" Big Picture...take 2

A few days ago, I began a blog on "The BIG PICTURE". I ended it with, "and later I'll tell you the rest of the story." (How Paul Harvey of me! :)) Well, here is part 2...hope you are ready. This has been fun, with the "continuation" clause. May have to do that again...

Well, in looking "deeper" in the "viewing" element, I had to share my "WHOLE PICTURE". I showed only a part of it on the last blog...here is the WHOLE DEAL ~



Look, now you can see SO MUCH MORE! The picture now includes me, my Mom, a background....you can see what I am wearing and both my "rosy cheeks". These items were "lost, invisible" before. Now, with the "zoomed out" option, the whole idea comes to view.

WOW! Now the whole concept is interpreted correctly. My B&B friends would say, "That's Powerful"!

Years ago, I heard a poem about a weaver. The weaver worked diligently and the buyer could not purchase the fabric until the weaver had finished the product with skill and precision. If you would have looked in on the weaver/artist before they were finished, you may have not liked the final piece. Such is life. If you look at individual parts, it may not be appealing. You must step back, and take another look. Then open your eyes for the full effect... the masterpiece.

I did find this poem and liked it a lot...

Just A Weaver

by Benjamine Malachi Franklin

My life is but a weaving, between my God and me, I do not choose the colors, He worketh steadily. Ofttimes he weaveth sorrow, and I in foolish pride Forget He sees the upper, and I the underside. Not till the loom is silent, and the shuttles cease to fly, Will God unroll the canvas, and explain the reasons why The dark threads are as needful in the skillful weaver's hand As threads of gold and silver in the pattern He has planned.

I like the phrase, "He sees the upper, I see the underside." Scripture states that HIS ways are so far above our ways ~ past finding out.

Some things are NOT FOR ME TO KNOW. I know, I like to be "aware" of the situation, and be "kept in the loop"... but sometimes Jesus doesn't share all the answers. My hubby loves the sweet old hymn ~

By and By
When the morning comes
When all the saints are
Gone to gather home
We will tell the story
How we've overcome
And we'll understand it better
By and By

Not in this life... later. We will then see clearly, face to face, in total understanding. I can see myself saying, "Aha, that's is what it was all about... couldn't see this beauty from the other side"!

You know, life is all about perception.

Hold your head steady and fix your eyes on the dot in the center of the picture. The colored dots will seem to disappear in a few seconds. The effect is due to retinal fatigue which occurs when the afterimage of an object cancels the stimulus of the object on the retina. The effect is most pronounced when the objects do not have well-defined edges that are detectable by small eye movements.

Case in point, looking at the "WHOLE" BIG PICTURE offers a different view than the narrow-minded, staring in ONE SPOT option.

I really like these perception tests.... here is another one.

Just a Clown?: When looking at this illusion one can see either a clown or the entire circus. What you see depends on the position of your head. When trying to see the entire circus you should tilt your head to the left.

Open my eyes, Lord. Give me wisdom to use them for perceiving all the avenues. Help me see all the colors, I want to see all the beauty. But I must look WIDE......DEEP.

"Peanuts Wisdomh"

Wisdom. We need it. We want it. It is not easy to obtain (so we think).

Jesus says,

James 1:5
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

I LOVE when HE says "SHALL". No funny stuff, no guess work....just "IT WILL BE". Gives me chills when I think of Jesus saying this to ME!

So, is wisdom easy? With God, it can be....and he gives it liberally, (def: lavished, openhanded, beneficent)....YEAH! Plenty...enough to go around... a "limitless" supply!

A dear friend of mine (thanks WP!), sent me some "wisdomh" (that is the way it was spelled in the article, not MY ERROR! :)). It was from the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the "Peanuts" comic strip.

He asked a few questions, then pondered and asked a few MORE questions....you tell me what you think, OK?

1) Name the five wealthiest people in the world.

2) Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.

3) Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.

4) Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.

5) Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.

6) Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

How did you do?

The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. BUT, the applause dies ~ Awards tarnish ~ Achievement are forgotten ~ Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1) List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.

2) Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.

3) Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.

4) Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!

5) Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials ~ the most money ~ or the most awards! They simply are the ones who CARE THE MOST!

Is that not a "whole lotta wisdom"? I love it when I learn.... a new technique, a new attribute, a new way of sharing. As I continue on my "quest", may I ALWAYS seek HIS wisdom.

What about YOU? Is there a "lesson in life" that has taught you something? Wisdom is definitely learned, not just "dropped in your lap"....you do your part (seeking, asking) and HE'LL do HIS! Good options!

My prayer today: Lord, help me find my way....guided by YOUR hand and help me use ALL the attributes/talents that YOU supply. And let me ask for help when I need it..... (please don't let me be "self-assured" and "pig-headed" too often!)....IJN, AMEN!

TAG: Now that we know the final outcome, do you think that we will still remember the winners from American Idol and Dancing with the Stars a few years from now? Or will their kids even care that they won such a title? Fleeting fame.... Recognition is gone almost before it is spoken.... don't hinge your life's happiness on it! You may be left behind... as life goes on and recognizes someone else.

The BIG Picture

Sometimes in life, I find that I have "tunnel-vision". I see what I WANT to see... Believe what I WANT to believe. I really do not want to say that I am "narrow-minded", but there are times I don't see the "WHOLE, BIG PICTURE".

Do you find this to be true in your own life? Do we "look over" the painful parts? Ignore the warning signs? See where others need help or instruction, but cannot see our own needs?

I have often sat down to "reflect" and "take inventory". I have even asked God in prayer to help me see through his eyes... with his understanding. So much of life has to be walked by faith and hope. God knows we could not handle the journey on "his level".

Psalm 118:23
This is the LORD's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.

Just to be able to comprehend "his level".... Beyond, Above....Amazing! I take comfort in knowing (believing) in HIS love, guidance, grace and encouragement.

There was a chorus that a young man sang when I was growing up. I do not remember his name, but I still hear the song in my mind...

Open our eyes, Lord
We want to see Jesus
To reach out and touch him
And say that we love him
Open our ears, Lord
Help us to listen
Open our eyes, Lord
We want to see Jesus

Yes, REALLY, REALLY open our "spiritual" eyes, Lord ~ Where my wants are not misinterpreted as your will ~ Where I see "growth" instead of pain ~ That I have the "right" words for the needy ~ That I offer more of myself ~ that my selfishness doesn't get in the way of a miracle.

I am really studying on these thoughts today...tomorrow may be the "rest of the story"....

Cannot Comprehend...

Although there are MANY things in life I (seem to) understand, there are just as many that I "do NOT". There are a few of the "things I cannot comprehend":

• How can someone not love a "nice" person?

• How can a parent mistreat a child?

• Why do spouses abuse their mates, who they claim to "love"?
  

• How can a teenager allow peer pressure and hatred take over and destroy another young person....verbally or physically?

• Why do some co-workers love to undermine and manipulate situations to "put down" another co-worker to gain their "position or title"?

In a NUTSHELL, why is it so hard for some people to love? Many say they love, but their deeds reveal their true heart. God is Love. If someone does not have HIM, they cannot have LOVE. Simple equation.... simple math.... simple truth.

The Bible CLEARLY states how love should act, what love should "look" like:

1 Corinthians 13

¹Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

²And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

³And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

⁴Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

⁵Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

⁶Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

⁷Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

⁸Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

⁹For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

¹⁰But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

¹¹When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

¹²For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

¹³And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

Jesus asks the question, "How can you SAY you love me, who you have not seen, and cannot love those who you HAVE seen?" I know I quote that passage a lot, but it is instructional to me. I cannot "speak the words" without "living the life".

I realize that I cannot allow the world to teach me....if I did, these "incomprehensible" acts could be explained or justified. I must allow the infallible Word of God, HIS teachings, to instruct me. HIS words have value, justification and rewards.....earthly and heavenly.

So, hopefully as I LEARN today, allow me to be "taught" by the MASTER. It is an intense training.... only for the strong, the weak cannot endure. Love and Forgiveness take strength. I want to be able to bear these traits. I want to exemplify HIM in my ways, not just my words.

I love Watermelon

Yes, little "Sissy" is a third-generation watermelon lover! It may go back further than that, but we do know that it goes at least that far!

I remember eating so much watermelon at our Annual 4th of July Picnic (at Aunt Leona's ~ extra special since it was also Dad's birthday!), that I would be sick....literally! I did not know at the time that the headache and stomachache I had the next day was due to me having diabetes (too much sugar, for sure!). Only knew it was wonderful while it lasted! Uncle Sonny would put the melons and cans of pop in a wash tub with water and ice. By putting this tub in the shade, the pop and melons stayed ice cold all day! I still remember freezing my hands as we "fished" for cans in the tub...what wonderful memories!

Shelly, "Sissy's Mommy", loved watermelon too! On days we would have it, she would eat nothing else. One 4th of July up at Dad's, Shelly again "tore away at the Melon plate"! Since we (Jr & I) had to work the next day, we had to make the three hour trip home ~ LATE! I mean after the fireworks display (that usually didn't even start until after 10 PM). Well, needless to say, Shelly was asking Daddy to stop at every gas station on the way home....and some of them were not even open ~ OOOPS! It meant for a frustrating ride home. The next year, Dad forbid Shelly to overdo it with the watermelon.

Our little Sissy loves to feed herself, and at this age (20 months), things can get a little "MESSY". I try to keep her in her high-chair to catch some of the "smears", but she will not wear a bib anymore...always tears them off!

When she was here over the weekend, she also enjoyed Macaroni & Cheese






and fell asleep on Mommy eating Cheesy Curls! :)

I learn so much from her.... may I keep enjoying life! Even watermelon... in moderated doses, but keep enjoying doing the things I love. And I sure do love watermelon! Isn't it funny how traits are passed down?...

Swing Me!

My little Grand-daughter (Aliyah, a.k.a. "Sissy") came for a surprise visit. I had not seen her in a month...and four weeks is a LONG time for Nanna and Sissy to be apart! Will she forget me? Will she remember us? Me and Pappy are just "adoring" this GRANDPARENTS trek!

When she arrived, she ran to me with open arms. A big smile upon her face...total trust and happiness on her little cherub face! We played in-doors due to the thunderstorms outside. BUT, yesterday afternoon, we took a trip (8 miles) to Mamaw and Papaw's house (to see Great-Grandparents Mildred and Glen & Aunt Karen).

Guess what? Papaw had taken one of Sissy's swings and put it up in the big Sugar Maple Tree out front! Well, the rain had stopped, so we wiped off the seat and Sissy went for a spin. The excitement on her face was astounding to watch! With each "push", you could see her gear up for a fun feeling! What wonder.... I loved just watching her.







She has total trust in us. She loves us unconditionally. She depends on us for EVERYTHING. A little child....I want to be more like that with my heavenly father!

Believe

At some point, you have to trust somebody. Even if you hurt and are afraid.... you gotta trust again... to start living again... learn to BELIEVE.

In our lives there is bound to come some pain, surely as there are storms and falling rain; just believe that the one who holds the storms will bring the sun.” "Many things about tomorrow I don't seem to understand. But I know who holds tomorrow, and I know he holds my hand."

Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something, and that this thing, at whatever cost, must be attained.” Marie Curie quotes

I AM WORTHY.... I AM UNIQUE... I AM SPECIAL... I AM IMPORTANT... I AM NEEDED... BELIEVE.

The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it's the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when he discovers that someone else believes in him and is willing to trust him with his friend.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

I can help... I can be a friend... I can make a difference... I am here to spread joy. BELIEVE.

I pull you from your tower, take away your pain. Show you all the beauty you possess, if you only let yourself believe.” Sarah McLachlan

Yes, it is hard to comprehend...but, just let faith, hope and love allow you to BELIEVE.

“I guess when all is said and done you are who you believe you are...and that should be good enough for everybody else.

Be... Believe.... In You... In Me.... In HIM.”

The Secret Ingredient

I love to "spice" up stuff. Life, food, fun...just about everything. An added "ZING" is always the ultimate goal. Why do something "good" when you can do it "GREAT"? Just another part of my "fun-loving-nature" I guess...

Well, one thing I have found that really gives some extra "KAPOW" is...... SUGAR! Yes, that is my secret ingredient.

In food, sugar can make the best recipe even better. Have you ever tried sugar in your gravy? Or green beans? Or in your spaghetti sauce? It's like sugar takes all the other ingredients and makes them "EXPLODE" with flavor!

I love the Disney movie, Ratatouille. He is the ultimate little chef...mixing all the best flavors and spices to create deliciously outstanding food for his establishment. My kind of guy (or rat?)...

I know that some people cannot handle real sugar, if they suffer from diabetes. Many in my family suffer from this health condition....myself included! We are just very fortunate to live in a time that supplies us with so many "sugar alternatives/substitutes". Splenda, Sweet-N-Low, Equal, to name a few. They even have Splenda in brown sugar! Wow, how blessed! What a joy to use on our favorite sweet potatoes...just wouldn't be the same without it!

Now in reflecting on the "sugar" side of life....I really like to make life fun and happy. Hopefully, I do not cause hardship or unhappiness for my family, friends, co-workers...anyone I encounter. Life is too great, too precious, too short to spend time making others miserable.

That's why I think many need to add some "sugar" to their diet! I hope that "cranky" people remember how to be nice. If they could just remember or look back to funner times and scrutinize what made that time/moment happy. I'm sure there was someone with a happy heart in the middle of it .....wanting to spread joy, wanting to share some laughs. Oh, that we can be reminded of those times and how they were created....and create some more!

With the "secret ingredient", you can affect so many with so little. "Little is much if God is in it!". Yes, joy comes with the gift of his spirit. I just get so excited when I realize how much "GOOD" he puts in everything. Here is a God that calls ALL the shots.... and designed the world to include his spirit that is so GOOD. It didn't have to be so, he could have been a "tyrant" ruler, but he chose LOVE in the truest form. For that I am forever and eternally grateful.

So, even though I may need to use a "watered-down substitute" for sugar in my meal preparations, I will NOT water down the sweetness HE has given to my life. I want it full-strength and powerful....full of ZIP, ZING and KAPOW! Yes, sometimes people think (yes, I have been accused of being fake!) that my happiness is not real...but, I can tell you with great assurance, It is real and the best "ingredient" in my life!

More sugar to ya! Spread some around (and in!) all you do... watch for the reactions... they will be asking, "Who is the chef"? :-P)

In the MIRROR

Luke 6:41 (King James Version)

⁴¹And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye?

Luke 6:41 (New International Version)

⁴¹"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?

My (BMM) interpretation: Why are you looking at your brother's small faults when you have a ton of BIG faults yourself??

Sure, it is easy to make someone else's imperfections come to light, but when the table is turned? OUCH!! It's not fun to be in the spotlight then... when someone looks at YOU and finds YOUR faults!

Many times it is just a good idea to take a "long look in the mirror". My imperfections will be shown ... no other image will be looking back at me....JUST ME, and me alone! I'm reminded of the wicked queen in the "Snow White" story....

~ Mirror, Mirror on the wall, who's the fairest of them all? ~

The mirror had to tell the truth. The mirror never lies.... it must show you as you REALLY ARE!

Another story in the Bible tells of two men who went to pray:

Luke 18:10-14 (King James Version)

¹⁰Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.

¹¹The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

¹²I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.

¹³And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

¹⁴I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

My (BMM) interpretation: You and another go up to pray. You begin to tell God all your virtues and brag about your accomplishments. "Lord, I have done so much good... my character is perfect and I am lacking in nothing. I'm so glad I don't have problems like my friend here.... He is so lacking....I feel sorry for him!" As my friend prays without saying much, he tells God, "Have mercy on me a sinner". God tuns from you, looks at your friend and says, "I accept you, I extend to you my forgiveness and peace." WOW! Who saw THAT coming?

With that example comes great responsibility. I am responsible for ME!

I have a confession to make....I do NOT like to look at my image (myself in the mirror! Or in a picture!). I know it is me.... I pinch myself, I hurt! Yep, it's me! Even though I may not like my reflection, I must like who I am.

Jesus said, "Love your neighbor as yourself." If I don't love myself, how can I love my neighbor? Simple Truth.

So, I must love ME! But how when I look in the mirror and see all MY imperfections? I don't feel good enough! I then look at others and see their faults too.....OH NO! I have become a "fault-finder". Beware, that is a vicious road to travel! Not happy with me, not happy with others....

When I was meditating on the "two people praying" passage, I asked myself, "Which one are YOU?" Of course, right off the bat, I thought I was the sinner, the one who received justification. Then I took a closer look...

Many times I DO feel that I am "worthy"..... I feel that I have moved BEYOND the "sinner" stage and have started "doing the right things". After reflection, I realize that I can easily be the "proud, Pharisee" and not even realize it....at least not until I really "Look in the mirror" and see what/who I really am.

Don't be afraid, God knows you as you are and loves you, you need to do the same....He sees the imperfections and knows how to bring the "good out". Just like we work loving with our children to help them "achieve", God is working with us...

Like the little children's song: (by Joel Hemphill)

He's still working on me, to make me what I ought to be

It took him just a week to make the moon and the stars

The sun and the earth and Jupiter and Mars

How loving and patient he must be

He's still working on me

The key is to "let HIM keep working". If you feel you have "arrived", the process is OVER!

Remember, there is a better you awaiting to be born today....Let him give you a makeover! You'll be glad you did...and so will others. A better, nicer YOU is always a good thing... and it reflects in the Mirror!

Some Random Thoughts

Sometimes my mind surprises me! (Don't get too excited please, notice I said sometimes ...)

There are days when it seems like all my "pistons" are firing in a consistent, unified force! Man, I love those days! My creative juices can just simplify all the daily "slush" and actually made some sense out of it. On these days, I am in control... I am the positive, effective "troubleshooter". The normal, mundane daily requirements don't get me down....I am a leader, I am strong and I am "handling life" all by myself....and doing a pretty good job of it! I start to feel kind of "successful"....

~ WATCH OUT! ~

I have a scary NEWSFLASH for you....you are not going to be able to go on this way.....STOP and pay attention.....this trip is full of pit-falls and detours. Life isn't always in the fast, "boogey" lane... sometimes you need to slow down or a CRASH will be on the horizon!

Who can handle life all by themselves? You? Nope...not me either!

I woke up this morning to many wonders....some of them being...

Electricity.... my refrigerator kept my milk cold that I poured onto my LIFE Cereal (my favorite besides hot oats!), the lights came on in my dark house (since Jr rises BEFORE morning light, around 5 AM), we ironed our clothes

Gas... my shower was taken in nice, warm water thanks to the hot-water tank that heated it to a perfect temperature while I slept, Jr's eggs that I fried for his lunch (He likes eggs sandwiches for lunch, fried crispy and hard!), I turned on the furnace for a bit ~ since the temperature was a little nippy

Food... there was plenty of "options" in the refrigerator and in the cupboard (juice, apples, toast, jelly, peanut butter, tea, bacon, hash-browns...)

Beauty Supplies... I reached for soap, cream, deodorant, tooth-paste, lip gloss, hairspray, tweezers, mirrors, hair clips...

Clothing... what to wear? So many options....should I dress casual, casual-dressy, or all out professional? No meetings today, just desk-work....I opted for the casual (Thank God for a place to work where I have that option!).

These were just a few of the "necessities" of life that are just "THERE". I didn't have to work for them...AMAZING! Of course they come with a price (I MUST pay the utility bills!), but they are just THERE! I don't have to milk the cow, run the mill for electricity, spin my own cloth, make my own clothes, bake bread every day, raise my own chickens....and the list is endless. OTHERS do so much for me! And these are folks that I probably will never meet or get to thank!

I also thought of the "FREE" benefits of life...the ones that come from our God Almighty.... "Just Because" gifts that I love so much!

Oxygen... breath in, breath out....Yep, lungs are enjoying the workout....fresh and revitalizing.

Love... my honey gave me hugs and kisses before he left for the job....how cute he is and how blessed I am!

Happiness Peace & Joy ... even though I will be doing many jobs today and needing much help, I feel happy and complete in HIM. It surely passes all understanding.

Health... yes, I feel good today! No pain, really thankful for a sound body and mind. Hope to keep it so and put it to good use!

Eternal Life... Can NEVER get over this gift from God. What did I ever do to deserve an "eternal life" option? Nothing....Nada....not one iota of work or success could merit this!

Yes, I am thankful, grateful and humbled by this great world... It is beautiful! Enjoy it today! Smell the flowers, drink in the landscape, watch a bird.... what a wonderful world!

Psalm 118:24
This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

I wrote this blog today after I got to work and was treated unfairly by an employee. After reflection, I realized ~ I will not let these "feelings" guide me, I will guide my feelings. I put my mind in reflective mode and I feel better already.....hope it works for you too!

Count your blessings, name them one-by-one....County your MANY blessings, see what GOD has done!

Follow the Recipe...then add LAUGHTER!

In honor of mother's everywhere this "MOTHER'S DAY", I would first like to say....welcome to the hardest working club, the most demanding job experience and the most hilarious act of life you will ever become a part of... It's called MOTHERHOOD.

Today, I will be quoting some of my favorite Erma Bombeck quotes. Anyone that can write books titled, "The Grass is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank ~ If Life is a Bowl of Cherries, Why Am I Always In the Pits? ~ Family, the Ties That Bind....and Gag! ~ just to name a few, is my kind of gal. Even though Erma's life ended at the young age of 69, I still remember some of her most famous one liners...

"Insanity is hereditary. You can catch it from your kids."

"There's nothing sadder in this world than to awake Christmas morning and not be a child."

"In general, my children refused to eat anything that hadn't danced on TV."

"Never loan your car to anyone to whom you've given birth."

"A child needs your love more when he deserves it least."

"Do you know what you call those who use towels and never wash them, eat meals and never do the dishes, sit in rooms they never clean, and are entertained till they drop? If you have just answered, "A house guest," you're wrong because I have just described my kids."

"It is not until you become a mother that your judgment slowly turns to compassion and understanding."

The ability to dole out love, correction, instruction, praise and warning is just a small part of being a parent. Knowing just "when" to act in the correct manner... so that a child's confidence is not crushed or their will is not "scarred for life" is a fine line. Everything must be done with tender love and care.

"Because I told you so!" becomes the stock answer at times. Why Mom, Why? If we had a coin for each time that question was asked! Why do we tell our kids "NO" sometimes? Because we sense the danger, know the risks, weight out the costs....if there is doubt for the safety of our offspring, we will warn them and "STOP" them if possible. We desire no harm to come to them, around them, or through them. Protection of the family is paramount! (Momma Bear will keep the cubs safe at all costs!)

But I believe that the "coating" on all the many "Momma Virtues" needs to be... LAUGHTER!

"When humor goes, there goes civilization."

If you can never laugh, the world seems gray. Without smiles, giggles, laughter... there is darkness instead of light.

Yes, we need to follow all the "bringing up baby rules"....they must be taught their A-B-C's, shown how to eat, brush their teeth and how to treat people fairly (just to scratch the surface rules!). But, don't forget the BEST PART....live a little, laugh a little and LOVE A LOT!

For when it is all over, you have gotten your children raised and they are educated adults, you will want some memories to look back to. And believe me, the fun ones are the best ones to remember....I keep laughing at those moments over and over again....Like a favorite movie, a best friend....they give me great joy and comfort.

Blessed .... times 3

My Mother, Rose Marie Forsythe with her "family of girls"

Emily, Rachelle, Michele, Amanda, Marlana, Danielle and Brenda
(Great Grandbaby Aliyah on Mom's lap)

My family with Momma Jean (combined brothers and sisters)

Paul, Allen, Brenda, Marlena, Suzie, David and Jerry (Walt was off helping someone!)

Mildred "Mamaw" McBride


For many, having one mother is enough. God had different plans for me and provided me with more....I have three!

I know not everyone can say that they have a good relationship with their mother-in-laws or step-mothers, but I do. They are just as dear to me as my own mother. Let me introduce them to you.

First up, my own Mom: Her name is Rose Marie Richards Forsythe. She grew up in Brooke County, WV. Wellsburg was her home throughout her youth. She married my Dad when she was 17 years old. I have two full brothers (David and Allen) and one half sister (Amanda). She suffered great loss when she lost two other daughters when I was young. Mom and Dad divorced after 19 years of marriage.

Mom is funloving, adventurous and a risk taker. I think each of us kids got these qualities from her. We are dreamers.....the creative juices don't fall far from the tree!

Next comes my Mother-in-law, Mildred "Mamaw" McBride. She came into my life at just he right moment. I was a young bride and needed lots of "training and tender care", she was the just the right Mom for the job. She instructed me on everything from cooking, cleaning to raising wonderful children. I'm so glad I listened....her wisdom is undeniable. Two "bits of wisdom" that she provided was: 1- Keep them close, they are a full-time job (AMEN!) and 2- Don't be afraid to instruct them (it will be easier coming from you than a stranger...you have the loving hand!)

When I was married for three months, my Dad remarried. Jean came into our life like a "breath of fresh air". She is an amazing woman. Suffering had been a constant in Jean's life, and she was now given the "second chance at love" just like we were....what a wonderful addition to our fold! She has said that she and Dad were like to lost souls that found each other. Jean brought me some more brothers and sisters; Jerry, Suzie, Billy (now deceased), Paul, Walt and Marlena. God allowed these two families to become "blended" and love is there....always will be!

I realize that I am complex and need lots of instruction, counsel and understanding. God knew this better than I and knew that "more than one hand" was needed to help this girl "grow to her ultimate potential", hence the three mothers. They have carried me, loved me, scolded me and been proud of me on all the right occasions.

Yes, I have been blessed in life...and in the "Mother Department" times three! That makes me extra special, right? I think so.... :D)