Postcards from Heaven

While I was "antiquing" with my wonderful Minnesota girlies (Lori & Greyley), it gave me a chance to look through some wonderful old postcards. Not only were there STACKS of them available (I'm talking hundreds in a couple different antique malls), there were some REALLY OLD ones! Not only were the post dates (1909, 1914, and more) fun to look at, but the one cent stamps were interesting too!

Some of the postcards were from places... cities, towns... just like the most common ones we send out today from vacation spots to let those we know back home how much fun we are having! (You know, all the 'bragging' and sympathy remarks... "Wish you were here!" LOL)

Some were actual Christmas Cards... so beautifully illustrated.



I remember years ago looking at pictures of my Grandfather's family put on postcards. Oh, how lovely they are! (You know the ones, where everyone is dressed in their Sunday best and NEVER smiled! right? :D)

So, to all the "Post Card Lovers" out there, let's share something today... a little bit of encouraging, hope, faith and love. Get you out some cards, postcards, stationery, whatever you have... and send out some 'connections' to someone today! Reconnect.

I have been meditating on the feeling of self-pity. You know the best way to 'kick the blues'? Just reach out to someone else... when you are sending all that kindness, your self-pity will disappear.

Jesus sends out love letters to us... old ones (in his WORD), constant ones (the preaching of his WORD) and the NOW ones..... when someone uses their hands and hearts like HIS! I love when I feel his touch... through someone sending me some "Postcards from Heaven".

Preparing a Place

Watching, waiting and anticipating....

When I am expecting company, I 'wear out the carpet'! Checking the driveway again and again. What time did they say they would arrive? Wonder if they are close? Will they get here soon? Is all ready for their arrival?

I think of the passage of scripture that Jesus gives us, telling us of his "preparation for our coming" to his house.... our home in Heaven...

¹Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. ²In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. ³And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:1-3, King James Version)

As God is preparing a place for us, shouldn't we be preparing a place for him? A place in our heart, our lives, our jobs, our hopes, our dreams? Is he a part of everything?

Every time I start to "prepare the house for company" I get into my "hospitality" drill. What do they like to eat? Are they allergic to anything? Are they diabetic (since we have so many in our friends and family circle!)? What are their favorite hobbies and interests? Are they like to drink coffee, tea or cappuccino?

As I was getting my guest bedroom ready for some company that we are expecting this weekend (Yeah L&G!), I was in the "wash the sheets" mode. You know the drill. Making sure no "dust bunnies" were in the corners, dusting, taking out extra "items" that get stored in that room (how DARE I call any of these articles JUNK!).

The bed is old (Yes, Suz, that is the set Mom bought off of you and Jr after the fire!), the walls are green (excuse me, they are BRIGHT LIME GREEN... the last color we painted them before Shelly left for college!) and the carpet is WAY beyond time for replacement... but it is part of our home. Our place of refuge and rest.



While I was "preparing" the room, I thought of another lady in the Bible who prepared a place for a prophet to stay....

⁹And she said unto her husband, Behold now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually. ¹⁰Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall; and let us set for him there a bed, and a table, and a stool, and a candlestick: and it shall be, when he cometh to us, that he shall turn in thither. ¹¹And it fell on a day, that he came thither, and he turned
into the chamber, and lay there. (2 Kings 4:9-11, King James Version)



How fun it is to know that you are "giving your best" to allow someone else to be comfortable. I'm sure the little lady shared that sentiment. A bed, table, stool and candlestick. Just because she may not have had "new items" did not keep her from providing them.

In my house there is old, new, borrowed (and blue! No, this is not a wedding, I just love that saying!).... I have very ECLECTIC tastes! I LOVE antiques. I have the wonderful old items from my family (the hand-me-downs), newer collections, comfortable pieces and 'deer-heads hung on the wall' in homage to my dear Hunter Husband! But you know what? Aren't we all that way? Many parts of our life are there for sentimental and emotional values instead of prideful ones.

So, with my new pillows and worn out carpet, would I be like the lady in the Bible to share what I have? Or would I say, 'mine is not good enough'....

Our lives should be given wholly to God ... open to share. Not be ridden with hidden parts for shame or embarrassment. I'm sure the prophet was so thankful for the space provided. So thankful for the open heart that provided this 'resting place' for him.

I think of Heaven. I think of the 'resting place' that God is preparing for us. I would follow him there even if there were no streets of gold or walls of jasper... no mansions, no gates of pearl. That he wants to give me all this, it just fine.... but I just want to see him. Gaze into his wonderful glory and thank him with every breath. What a wonder!

May I give him what I have and not worry about what I do not!

I want to give you a place Lord
in my heart and in my life
A place where you can feel welcome
loved and adored
Even though I know I cannot give you
a small part of what you deserve
You give me nothing but approval
and love me even more

Give all... receive more than you could ever imagine.

Heaven will be such a place... a 'prepared' place. Just for me... and you...

Strong Enough to Cry

Many think and even believe that crying is a sign of weakness.

Did you know that Jesus cried? (John 11:35, the shortest verse in the Bible) ~ JESUS WEPT.

Cry/Crying –verb (used without object)

1.	to utter inarticulate sounds, esp. of lamentation, grief, or suffering, usually with tears

Crying ~ when you suffer to the point that an outward expression occurs.... tears begin to flow.

Tears come for different reasons and sometimes at unexpected times...

Have you ever cried when you were really MAD or frustrated? Scared? Lonely? Hurt?

Ecclesiastes lets us know that there is a 'season' or 'time' for all things... and "a time to cry" is one of those times...

I love this quote...

[ You don't always have to pretend to be strong.
There's no need to prove all the time that everything is going well.
You shouldn't be concerned about what other people are thinking,
Cry if you need to, it's good to cry out all your tears,
Because only then will you be able to smile again. ]

What happens AFTER you have allowed yourself to have a good cry?

I cannot speak for anyone but me.... crying makes me feel clean.

[ I love walking in the rain, because no-one knows I'm crying. ]

After I have released my heart in the form of tears, I feel a refreshing, light-heartedness that brings on something that is utterly amazing to me...

JOY

"weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning". Psalms 30:5 KJV

I love JOY. It is one of my favorite 'fruits' of the Holy Spirit. It is just the berries! :)

So, don't be too proud... if you need some joy, have a good cry... you may just find that the joy comes quickly... or when it does come, get ready to laugh.

Laughing and Joy are twins! :)

Do you see what I see?

Although today considered a toy, View-Master began it's commercial life in 1939 as a home-entertainment medium intended for adults.

My first experience with a View-Master was the Christmas of my 6th year... Second grade! When I returned from Christmas break, my teacher asked us to do a 'show-and-tell' of something we received for Christmas. I was SO excited! Of course, my View-Master would be the coolest gift anyone got from their family (I already knew there was no Santa, our presents were under a Manger Scene, not a tree).

For Sissy's (my grand-daughter Aliyah) second birthday, Mamaw Mildred and Aunt Karen got her a View-Master with some extra view cards. It was so much fun watching her learn to use the viewer...



My girls talked about playing with View Masters when they were little. Their cousins had one and they really enjoyed flipping through the view cards... oh, the stories that unfolded! I am so glad my kids loved to read, listen to audio stories and play with this type of educational toy.


In life, we see what we want to see. Wouldn't it be nice to only load in the view card that we want to see? We all would like to "weed out" the bad, uncomfortable parts.

I am just asking you today, "Do you see what I see"? Is your heart still open and aware? Don't close yourselves off... even though it hurts, let your heart 'see' the needs around you....

Pop in a new view card everyday... the one called "Real Life". It's ok, even though it may be scary, God is viewing it all with you! :)

My one and only...

Long before the movie phrase came out, "You complete me", my honey and I were living the concept. We are the other "part" of each other. He is my life partner and best friend. I want to introduce you to a very special guy, "my better half", Glenville Paul McBride, Jr.

Glen (Jr) is the cutest, sweetest, most honest, dependable, handsome "hunk" on the planet..... and I can say that because he is MINE! My one and only....



In this day and age, it is very old fashioned to say, but here I go..... we are faithful partners. So when I say, "My one and only", I mean that in EVERY sense of the word.

He "gets' me. He takes into consideration each part of my multi-faceted personality and embraces each one. Believe me, that is no small fete! I can be complex...and that has not scared him off. We have now been married 27 years! As of October 23rd. We are in it for the long haul... no exit options! I only say that because we "mutually" respect each other. Don't get me wrong, if someone is in a abusive or demeaning relationship, saying "goodbye" might be the best option for sanity. I'm just happy that for us, God helps the love and respect remain. A must for longevity in a relationship...

We've come through some tough times. All our days have not been sunny, but we have endured them "together". God's amazing love has been woven into our lives... He will forever be our "thread".

My job had me away on my Anniversary this year...I arrived home at 8 PM that evening. My honey had me some gorgeous roses waiting...



On Sunday, I made dinner at home (Taco Salad and Waldorf Fruit Salad). The day I realized that just "being together" was better than any Anniversary Dinner out or gift, was the day I became a happier person... the greatest joys are shared, not purchased!

Monday was the special day, though.... I came home from work and found my sweetie making HOMEMADE BISCUITS! All this time I thought I was the cook in the family! Just had to take these pictures... how adorable is that?





Through our years together, God has blessed us with two beautiful daughters, two great son-in-laws and a gorgeous grand-daughter. Truly blessed, we are!

Our song is "Just you and I" that was recorded by Eddie Rabbit and Crystal Gayle.

Just you and I sharing our love together
And I know in time we'll build the dreams we treasure
We'll be alright, Just you and I

And I, remember our first embrace
The smile that was on your face
the promises that we made
And now, your love is my reward
And I love you even more, than I ever did before

We made it, YOU AND I



As a young, single girl, I used to worry about finding a life partner. I asked God~ "How will I know? How can I pick a guy who will be with me for the rest of my life?" God let me know that my sweetie was the one... now, looking back, I'm so glad I listened... keep talking Lord, and leading us. We have trusted you this far and will continue to... thanks seems too small a word...

What can I ask for?

What am I allowed to ask for?

When I was young, I learned REAL QUICKLY what to ask for and what NOT to ask for. I do not like confrontation, never have... so it there is an option that is "less stressful" or "less contrary", I would take it! And still do...

But, is this always the best route?

I know, sometimes you gotta speak up for yourself, right? Other times, I think I let myself become like a wimp.... or do I?

Jesus, the King of Kings, when confronted with a cruel, judgmental attitude, just stayed calm and only defended himself in a quiet, meek manner! He KNEW who he was! He was confident and secure in himself. [Reference: Isaiah 53:7, Acts 8:32]

Is that why we are not strong at times.... because we are not confident in ourselves? We are wishy-washy or indecisive because we don't know our own mind?

Ought Oh! We are getting on deep territory now!

Jesus speaks so clearly about asking and receiving-

Matthew 7:7-11 (King James Version)

⁷Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

⁸For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

⁹Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?

¹⁰Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?

¹¹If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

That is God's words... tried, true, tested... bankable!

It's not a myth that we have conjured up... it is fact... TRUTH.

BUT, this is what scares me... in the WORD I can find this...

Luke 18:7-9 (King James Version)

⁷And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them?

⁸I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?

It all boils down to the confidence you have in Christ.

Psalm 118:8-9 (King James Version)

⁸It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.

⁹It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.

1 John 3:19-21 (King James Version)

¹⁹And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him.

²⁰For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.

²¹Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.

I used to agonize over 'upsetting God' by asking him things.... then I realized HE AGONIZED TOO! Even though Jesus KNEW the ultimate plan was for him to die on Calvary, he STILL AGONIZED and questioned God all throughout the night...

HE knows ME! HE loves me, HE hears my prayers and petitions... they come from my "needy" heart...

And HE loves to hear from me! My heavenly father is waiting for my call, my request, my plea!

May I not belittle him by ignoring his gentle knocking on my heart's door. HE wants entry.... he is waiting... don't keep him waiting for too long!

Revelation 3:19-21 (King James Version)

¹⁹As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.

²⁰Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

²¹To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

So, what can I ask for? No limits! ... to your heart's content! Go ahead... see what your heavenly father pours out! Need love? Need a job? Need healing? Need uplifting?

You can go BOLDLY before the throne of grace...

Hebrews 4:15-16 (King James Version)

¹⁵For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

¹⁶Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

No problem... he's got it all ... right there in his hands!

I'm using these scriptures to encourage myself and MOST OF ALL...

Remind myself how big my heavenly father is and just WHO HE IS! WOW!

I smell the bread...

I LOVE the smell of bread in the oven...do you?

At work (here at the county senior center!), I get to smell homemade bread baking at least twice a week. YUM, YUM... makes me hungry just getting a "whiff". Sometimes, I sneak down and get a "hot one" right after it comes out of the oven! No fair, I know! My cook, Ellen, can do white or wheat and they are delectable!

OK, now to my own blog... today I am going to show you some of the "fruits of my labors". My hubby LOVES banana bread, so lately, I have been picking up RIPE BANANAS at the grocery store (You can get them cheap you know?) and making him some. Over the weeks, I have 'experimented' with different combinations...

Like, adding raisins, some cinnamon, even zucchini...YES, we have decided that the Banana/zucchini combination is our FAVORITE!



So, I will get the "old" recipe (that I dug out from a quaint recipe book done by the Summers family!) and share it with you...of course it is "altered" to include the zucchini that we all agree increases the flavor!


So, here it is (in my own words, just in case you cannot read the picture above!):

Get you a loaf pan, a cupcake pan (that makes 12) or some small loaf pans (I have three that equal one loaf pan ~ so cute!).

Spray them down with non-stick spray (or the old-fashioned way my Ma taught me ~ wipe the butter in there and cover/shake in the flour...works just as well!).

Add 1 cup sugar (or split 1/2 honey or 1/2 brown sugar for some interesting tastes! Hey, it's YOUR recipe, you "doctor it up"! 2 eggs, 1/3 cup butter, 1 2/3 flour (I use self-rising so I don't have to buy all those OTHER ingredients), chopped nuts (as much as you would like!), 2 or 3 ripe (mashed) bananas and at least 2 small (or one big) zucchini (now, I peel the zuchinni, but you do not have to, just shred it!).

Mix all these ingredients together (throw in any other spices you dare! I love to add some Cinnamon!) and bake on 350.

Now, the loaf pan takes at least an hour to bake...but the cupcakes and little loaf pans will be done within 20-25 minutes...watch them! If your oven bakes fast, you better be a watchin'! Burnt bread is not the desired outcome!

So, when I take these tasty morsels out of the oven, I load the butter on top and smear butter on them and eat them HOT! My, my.... nothing like it, fo sho!

Hope you bake you up a nice, tasty batch of banana bread, or other homemade treat! You and your family will enjoy immensely!

Tell me what ingredients you/your family like....I've had some say they like the raisins, others said theirs enjoy chocolate chip cookie chips)....let me know, I'm all about whipping up another batch just to try! :)

What can I say?

What can I say?

~ When words won't come because you are in so much pain that no "conscience thought" can be uttered?

~ When you hurt for someone and their situation and have no words of "how-to" fix it, because they are in uncharted waters that you have never proved or experienced?

~ When you know that you could so easily say the wrong thing and "push them over the edge" to a scary place.

What can you say?

As I ponder, I realize that just "being there" is the most powerful message. Your presence, your support and unconditional love, is the ONLY way you can communicate. Of course, during this time of "strong, supportive silence", you can bombard heaven for direction, answers and guidance. HE knows. HE cares. HE is working for our good...

I love the old song, "I give you Jesus".... I actually found a new version by Dennis Ross III on you tube... here is the link to both of these precious songs so you can listen, pray and worship with me...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmBObGKWmGY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJsphRtaW84

So, when you don't know what to say, and you've done all you can do.... Give it to Jesus! That truth and simplicity will NEVER change.

Not Knowing

Knowing. If we only knew... really knew...

How many times have you heard the expression, "If I knew then what I know now...". Experience is a great teacher...one of the best.

Yes, we wonder, ponder and 'down-right' worry about too much! If I put all my "useless" worrying together, I'd have a big pot of wasted time! You too, right?

As I have visited with some (more) friends from the past, I look back in wonder.... how different my life has gone than what I had planned! I never dreamed I would be in Calhoun County, the assistant at a Senior Center! Why, all my dreams contained working for the Lord as a missionary in a foreign land or big city! My how faint those dreams are now, when faced with reality... but how wonderful my "real life" has been! Full of wonderful family and friends.



This past weekend (Thursday thru Tuesday), I was fortunate to be able to visit with some family (my brother, Allen) and friends in Dallas. Some of the older friends; Suzie (came up from Houston), Bonnie and her husband Tony, Savita (Lori's friend), Lori Sabin (my new and precious friend and traveling buddy!), Lori and Mark Carouthers.

I let my mind wonder back to those "days gone by". Boy, that sure makes me sound old and reflective, doesn't it? Here I am visiting with old friends and making new ones at the same time (Lori did we only just "meet"? I felt I have known you forever!).




This song just keeps going over and over in my mind... Diana Ross, "Do you know where you're going to?"

Do you know where you're going to?
Do you like the things that life is showing you?
Where are you going to?
Do you know?

Do you get what you're hoping for?
When you look behind you, there's no open doors
What are you hoping for?
Do you know?

Once, we were standing still in time
Chasin' the fantasies that filled our minds
You knew how I loved you but my spirit was free
Laughin' at the questions that you once asked of me

Do you know where you're going to?
Do you like the things that life is showing you?
Where are you going to?
Do you know?

Now, looking back at all we've planned,
We let so many dreams just slip through our hands
Why must we wait so long before we'll see?
How sad the answers to those questions can be

Time keeps marching, life keeps changing... so much to do, so little time.

I hope you enjoy today. I hope you like where life has put you. Most of all, I hope you are surrounded by love from God, family and friends. Remember, as long as there is life... there are good times to share! What are YOU hoping for?

A-B-C's

Right now I am in the air on my way to Dallas. My flight leaves at 7:20 AM from Columbus, layover in Memphis (where I pick up little sissy Lori) and off to Dallas by 11:00 AM.

I wrote this blog 'in advance' since I knew I would be in the air or waiting at an airport somewhere today. Yes, I will take lots of pictures and "chronicle" this journey for you! You can meet who I meet and see who I see... how cool is that?

So, when trying to figure out what to write, my dear friend and sister-in-law Karen, sent me this.

It is the A-B-C's of Friendship:

A Friend...
by: Author Unknown, Source Unknown

(A)ccepts you as you are
(B)elieves in "you"
(C)alls you just to say "HI"
(D)oesn't give up on you
(E)nvisions the whole of you (even the unfinished parts)
(F)orgives your mistakes
(G)ives unconditionally
(H)elps you
(I)nvites you over
(J)ust "be" with you
(K)eeps you close at heart
(L)oves you for who you are
(M)akes a difference in your life
(N)ever Judges
(O)ffer support
(P)icks you up
(Q)uiets your fears
(R)aises your spirits
(S)ays nice things about you
(T)ells you the truth when you need to hear it
(U)nderstands you
(V)alues you
(W)alks beside you
(X)-plains thing you don't understand
(Y)ells when you won't listen and
(Z)aps you back to reality

I LOVE this. It is so true and Biblical. If we have true love... the love of Christ, we will have the attributes to allow us to be this type of friend. I sure do desire this... want to be the best friend I can be! To not be "shallow" or "self-absorbed" I must have HIS love.

So, as you go about your day, try to be the best friend today you have ever been! I will too... let me know how it goes...:)

The Penny Tree

As I "meditate" on life... it's experiences, it's lessons... I get inspired to tell YOU about it! Wanting to share my heart. Sometimes when I begin a blog, it is with a message of sharing... then I have to do some 'digging' or studying! I always end up learning more by sharing my thoughts with YOU! So, thank you for helping me get smarter...:)

A while back, I picked up a couple (MORE!) books to read. Seems like I go through "reading spells". Lately, I have not had the time to give to recreation reading. Outside of work or an occasion 'newspaper/magazine' skim, I have been tackling too many different projects to finish a book. With my vacation coming up (Here I come Dallas, ready or not!), I picked up a couple interesting books at the store the other day to ready while waiting at the airport. I would have said "book store" but our little, rural town does not have one! I found the book I am reading at the local Dollar Store! They got in a nice selection and one caught my eye. It is titled, "The Penny Tree".

I have only finished thirty-seven (37) pages and I am HOOKED! I already want to share a section with you... it has inspired me so!

First, I will share a review I found (Yes! I DO have to research lots to give you the "scoop"!) online.

Friday, July 25, 2008
Review by: The Highland Lassie (http://highlandlassiereviews.blogspot.com)

Book Review- The Penny Tree
Author- Holly Kennedy

Blurb:
Annie Hillman has been dangling from the end of her rope for so long, she’s forgotten how to do more than hold on. Back in her small hometown, struggling with her older sons truancy and her younger sons medical bills, Annie finds her only refuge is the old Douglas fir that has been special to her since childhood when her father helped her nail a penny to the trunk. Then the oddest thing happens. The local newspaper carries a front-page ad with a picture of Annie and an earnest message of love and regret from an unknown admirer.

Once again Holly Kennedy has written a gem. Of her three books this is my favorite. Ms. Kennedy writes a remarkable story of love, compassion, regret and most of all love. It speaks of things everyone can relate too. How the greatest gift we can give our children is love, and that a token of our never ending affection, something for them to call their own, to remember when life gets them down, is worth more than a lifetime of material gifts.

The book tells how life takes us on a journey down a treacherous and bumpy road but those who brace themselves and hold on for the ride are the one’s who prosper. Why? Because it doesn’t matter if we fall down along the way, as long as we get back up. The message is clear, giving up isn’t the answer. It may be a solution but NEVER the answer.

I loved this story! I laughed, I cried, and I couldn’t stop turning pages. AND the best thing of all it made me think. It made me reconsider certain things in my own life and that of my family. There is a twist in the book, and I must say, though I am usually good at figuring mysteries out, I totally missed this one! This book could easily be made into a movie. AND one day when the time is right, I hope to give my own children a Penny Tree.

I give this book 5 ***** stars!!!!



In sharing this first 'portion' of story, I wanted to tell you about the "Penny Tree" definition in the story. This tree becomes a symbol, a "locality" for a father to teach his daughter of a life-long lesson-

(Quoting Page 27 where the father is telling the daughter the meaning of the Penny Tree, she was 12 years old, just found out she was adopted and feeling very hurt and rejected...)

"My father gave me a penny tree when I wasn't much older than you are, and when he did, he said he believed everyone needs a special place to lick their wounds and regroup, somewhere that feels safer than anywhere else in the world. So that's what we're doing here today. We're nailing that penny to this tree because I want you to have somewhere to go that ground you, an axis for your world to spin around, and a place that's all yours and no one else's - for times when life throws things at you that you aren't sure how to handle. and it will throw things at you, Annie: things that test you and push you to your limits; things not unlike what you're going through right now. Only from now on, instead of running away from them, you'll have somewhere to think them through. Your own special spot where you can hurt in private when you need to be alone, and where you can weigh all the pros and cons to make the decisions you need to make."

As I read these words, my spirit was lightened! I have such a place! It is not a 'Penny Tree' but it is at the feet of Jesus. As a child I was taught that HE, the great God of heaven, would listen to my pleas... no matter how small or big... and help me to understand the "roads/curves" of life... allowing me to make good decisions. A special place of refuge... when problems were bigger then me... when I needed to make good choices.

How I rejoice in this place of wisdom! This place of trust. I can tell God in secret. He is just, forgiving, merciful, kind, loving, comforting... SAFE.

I have often told my children that I could not give them lots of worldly goods in this life... BUT, I can introduce them to someone who is EVERYTHING they will ever need! If I can just point them in HIS direction, they will be safe, cared-for, protected, educated, instructed and in the end, saved from the troubles of this life.

The best place to go... to the "Penny Tree", the "Cleft in the Rock", the place of safety... where my heavenly father resides.

Do you have such a place? I sure hope so... my hearts breaks for those who have not felt his love wrap around their lives in times of trouble. No greater love and no greater place than this...

Promises

Yesterday, after a long period of dryness, the rain came. I was visiting my step-mother and we were returning home from a great afternoon of shopping, visiting and (of course!) eating. All of a sudden, Jean saw the rainbow. We stopped the car and just sat a few moments in amazement. How totally awesome!

Rainbows remind me of the promises of God. I know that many have taken this symbol and used it for their own representation, but I KNOW what the true meaning is... GOD IS STILL WITH US!

The original definition from God Almighty still stands:

Genesis 9:15-17 (New International Version)

15 I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. 16 Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth."

God hasn't forgotten us! He still reminds us... in the same ways he always has.

Open your heart today... hear his voice, know his love, feel his communication. It's there... it has been all along.

Everywhere

He was just a little boy,

On a week's first day.

Wandering home from Bible school,

And dawdling on the way.



He scuffed his shoes into the grass;

He even found a caterpillar.

He found a fluffy milkweed pod,

And blew out all the 'filler.'



A bird's nest in a tree overhead,

So wisely placed up so high.

Was just another wonder,

That caught his eager eye.



A neighbor watched his zig zag course,

And hailed him from the lawn;

Asked him where he'd been that day

And what was going on.



'I've been to Bible School ,'

He said and turned a piece of sod.

He picked up a wiggly worm replying,

'I've learned a lot about God.'



'M'm very fine way,' the neighbor said,

'for a boy to spend his time.'

'If you'll tell me where God is,

I'll give you a brand new dime.'



Quick as a flash the answer came!

Nor were his accents faint.

'I'll give you a dollar, Mister,

If you can tell me where God ain't.'

Am I Important?

How important are you? To your children, your spouse, your parents, your friends...

I'm sure you could think of a zillion, million ways that these people would miss you if you were not around.

But how important are you to God? When I ask that question, do you get positive or negative thoughts? I sure hope they are positive!!! We need to have a positive view of God's love for us. Very easy to think bad of ourselves... this does not please God!

Think of it like this, how does you earthly parents feel about you? Good, godly parents will give you 'unconditional love'. You mess up, they keep loving... you act badly, they keep loving (even if some correction is thrown in there when needed, you know you are loved!!).

We are such NEEDY people... needing reassurance, direction, support and love CONTINUALLY! Jesus made us and knows human nature... he "Gets" us.

In needed to be reminded, here are some scriptures that only 'begins' to tell us his great love for us...my favorite is John 3:16:

16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

He gave his only son... that should say it all right there!!!

Here is some more:

GENESIS 1:26-27; PSALM 8:3-8

26And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

27So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

3When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;

4What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?

5For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.

6Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet:

7All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field;

8The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas.

God made us in his image or likeness, the first sign of the value he places on us. No other creature on earth is made in the image of God. The second sign of the value God places on us is that he placed people over all creatures on earth.

PSALM 139:13-16; JEREMIAH 1:5

13For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb.

14I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.

15My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.

16Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.

5Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

God made us with great skill; he crafted us with loving care. He showed how much value he places on us by the way he made us.

PSALM 139:17

17How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!

Almighty God thinks wonderful thoughts about us all the time. He looks inside of us and sees our real value.

PSALM 139:1-3, 6

1O lord, thou hast searched me, and known me.

2Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off.

3Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.

God values you so much that he watches over you no matter where you are or what you are doing. This truly is wonderful, too wonderful to believe. But it tells you how special he thinks you are. God cares about everything we do because he loves us so much.

1 CORINTHIANS 6:19-20

19What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

20For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

God values you so much that he even allows your body to become a temple in which he lives. God does not need to live in you. He can live anywhere. But by choosing to live within you, he declares you his temple, his dwelling place. What a great value he places on you to do that!

GALATIANS 3:26; GALATIANS 4:7

26For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

7Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

God values you so much that he thinks of you as his child.

MATTHEW 28:20

20Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

God promises to be with us always; why would he want to be with us if he didn’t value us?

Take a look in the mirror and ask yourself... How important am I to God? If you get the right answer, you will be rejoicing all day long....YOU ARE LOVED!!!!

Burst of Chocolate

Sensations of chocolate bursting at every bite!

Some days are sunny days, some days are bitter days, some days are cloudy days, some days are rainy days and some days are ..... chocolate days!

I REALLY LIKE the chocolate days... the days that feel like a treat! These days seem to be so easy, run smoothly and offer benefits that we have not expected. After all the days of fighting for control, hurting hearts, bitter tears, non-understanding....then POW! Along comes the most delectable of days....

Just 'knowing' that chocolate days are coming, makes me stronger. I can take the disappointments, knowing that chocolate days are coming.

And here on earth, we cannot comprehend the "chocolate days to come"... our Maker is planning them right now! Endless days filled with no tears, pain, disappointments, sickness, hurt... just peace, love, joy, happiness for EVERMORE.

I can endure, be confident in the 'knowing'... better days are ahead, chocolaty days...

Found this recipe... cannot wait to try... hope they will make my/your day turn into a special kind of happy day! Of course, if you don't have time to bake, a Hershey's or Dove Chocolate Bar will substitute just fine!

Chocolate Muffins

(Makes 12 mid sized muffins)

2 eggs

1 cup sugar

1 cup self raising flour

6 tablespoons cocoa powder

2/3 cups milk

2/3 cups butter

1 tsp vanilla essence

Optional

handful of chocolate chips

handful of chopped nuts ( almonds & cashews) & raisins

1. Start of with the usual drill - cream butter & sugar

2. Add in 2 eggs - 1 at a time. Add vanilla essence

3. Fold in flour & cocoa powder

4. Mix in chopped nuts/choc chips/raisins

5. Fill in batter into muffin cups

6. Bake for 15-20 mins in a preheated oven at 180 degrees celcius or till a fork inserted into the muffin comes out clean.

In the beginning

In the last post, I told you that I wanted to share some of my "Friends" in life...Well, here we go...

WOW! Have you ever tried to remember your first thought? Your first memory? How successful were you? Me? Not very...

I do remember always loving to sing. Our family was faithful members of the local Pentecostal assembly, so singing was the "weave" that strengthened our faith... proclaimed our love for such a great GOD!

So, when I was little and getting ready for church, I would go out into the yard and sing! I would sing to the flowers, the trees, the wind... making up words and melodies. How I wish I remembered those songs today!

There were two 'buddies' I had at the time that were an intricate part of my life. They were my cousins, Marla (5 years my senior) and Nila (just almost a year older than me!). Since we were 'neighbors' on "The Hill" (I'll have to take pictures and define "The Hill" to you soon!), we spent LOTS of time together. I actually remember them ALWAYS being there!... when I needed someone to eat my vegetables, or when I wanted to get my chores done quickly so I could go out to play, they always helped!

Home, Church, School...that was our life. When we were home, that meant running "The Hill" playing with ALL the cousins. Well, Marla, Nila and I (Hereafter known as "THE TRIO"), started singing. We would sit on the picnic benches, in our bedrooms, or in the "Little House" (This is the house that Grandpa Forsythe built for us!) and SING UP A STORM. I believe I was 7, Nila 8 and Marla 12 when we started on this journey...

At first, we just sang what 'we thought' sounded right! Marla sang lead and Nila and I sang TENOR! Yep, we could both hear that part! Then one day, Nila heard the ALTO part, and our three-part harmony sound was created. No formal training... just using the talents God gave us, we started singing ALL THE TIME! No Rambos, Bill Gaither or Happy Goodman albums were missed! We learned EVERY SONG by heart.

Since church was our life, we went to ALL the special services... Revivals, Youth Ralley's, Youth Weeks, "Second Saturday Sings" at Jewett, Camp Meetings... and THE TRIO was asked to sing at almost every one of them.

Marla, as the senior member, was our spokesperson. She would choose the song(s) we would sing at each occasion. We would always pray and ask God to use us to touch a heart, even if the occasion was a funeral. I cannot tell you the times we sang, "Only One Life" or "I'm Gonna Live So I Can Die Right" at these events! Street Meetings... the selections there were always, "Sweet, Sweet Song of Salvation" and "Jesus is the Only Way"- written by The Trio.

Another cousin, Sharon, (older sister to Nila and Marla) was our accompanist on the organ and Allen or Timmy would play the drums. After we were a little older, I started playing the piano for the group. What fun was had by all.

How I wish we had pictures of those times!!!! They would be fun to look at for sure. But, since our families were large and running on one income, there were not many pictures taken, or developed due to lack of financial backing!

The Trio sang together til I went to Jackson College of Ministries (JCM) in 1979, I was 17 years old.

Now, whenever I visit my 'home church from childhood', they still ask The Trio to sing. We will pull out "I Know He Loves Me" and "I've Got Jesus and That's Enough" like we did when we were young....yes, we are all middle-aged now! Hard to believe.

Sharing the times of singing with these dear friends, I realize that they were my first "true friends". I thank you Marla and Nila for being so good to me in every way. Sharing your time, laughs, clothes and food with me.

And you know that coolest part? I can still go up home (3 hours North), see one of these sweethearts, and start the conversation again...the one that never stops. That's what friendship is made up of... one life-long, never-ending conversation that starts and stops at any time.

Best of Friends

Friends

–noun
1.a person attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard

2.a person who gives assistance; supporter

3.a person who is on good terms with another; a person who is not hostile: Who goes there? Friend or foe?

Just looking back on the few short years I have lived (although I am "middle-aged", I still feel young!), I recall some of my best friends.

Over the next few days, I am going to "NAME NAMES"! Telling you of some of my friends, what they have meant to me, how they encouraged me....

Recently, I have "re-connected" with a few. It has been fabulous. Many of them are living 'Far, Far' away, but somehow, we have been able to cross-paths again. Fate? Like a miracle? I like to think by "Grand Design"... or Heaven's Purpose.

So, as I start to share my friends through the years, I want you to think about yours! Remembering precious memories is very therapeutic. By recalling the good times, fun times, crazy times and who was with us (our comrades in crime!), we realize how many wonderful people have 'been there' for us...through good, bad, or 'down' times... consistently. That SAFE feeling we get when we are together. Picking up the conversation after MANY years and not missing a beat...

Today, I remember. Today, I seek to find someone who I was once close to. I will call them, send them a letter, write them a "Thank You Note"... just want them to know that they have made a difference in my life...that they are important... if for no other reason than to help me get through life a little easier.

How about you? Is there someone who has come to mind lately that you would like to 'look-up' again? Give it a try... as I was writing this today, I thought of someone that I needed to send a card to....hope you feel the same way!

Til' tomorrow...

God Bless...

(Dad on his 73rd birthday, July 4, 2008)


Today is bittersweet.

Today is one of the funnest days "ever" on my calendar...usually.

From a young age, I remember ALWAYS having the BIGGEST and BEST picnics on the 4th of July. Uncle Sonny and Aunt Leona ALWAYS opened up their house and invited all the church family to their house for a day filled with good food, laughter and fun! Aunt Leona would have all the kids ~ Sharon, Gary, Ronnie, Marla, Timmy, Nila and Randy ~ getting the house "spic and span" for this annual event! All the stops were pulled out, even the house would be repainted (white with turquoise trim) for the occasion!

Many stories of those times come to mind...precious memories!

~ The one 4th of July when I had the chicken pox and had to stay on the couch at Grandma's ALL DAY, while looking out the window at everyone playing and having fun! My cousins Nila and Marla were so great to come in and check on me. Missed out on all the fun that year! SIGH...

~ Uncle Sonny getting out the big tubs and filling them with ice and cold water...never drank pop (soda) so cold or Watermelon!

~ Endless days of badminton

~ Me getting sun burnt SOOO bad... seems I never would learn to stay in the shade!

~ The year we let off so many "penny-enny" firecrackers late at night that the neighbors (over on the pike) called the cops on us! We hid out in the corn-field till the cops left...SHWEW! That was close!

Loved having everyone 'together'....that was the funnest part!

We knew we were celebrating the patriotic reasons for the day, but the 4th always had ANOTHER blessing, my Dad's birthday. It just seemed appropriate that he was a "firecracker" baby. I think he loved that a celebration was always made in his honor! :)

Grandma Minnie always found the freshest of new green beans to put in the pot and bake a scrumptious pan of cornbread to accent. Everyone brought a covered - dish. I never saw so much chicken, meatloaf, potato salad, baked beans.... (You can imagine...the family reunion style buffet!) A huge birthday cake always rounded out the yummy meal in celebration of Dad's birthday.

Many years have come and gone, family and church members have spread throughout the USA... but memories are still recalled of this special time on the "HILL". Unless you have been to my birthplace, you cannot understand the true meaning of "The Hill". I hope you get to visit/revisit some day.

With this "scattering" of family/friends, the last few years the 4th of July celebrations have become more "family oriented".... meaning, each family would have their own family cookout, go to the Wellsburg 4th of July parade, then gather back on the "Hill" for the fireworks. Since the "Hill" overlooked the Ohio River where the fireworks were released, it felt like we had front-row seats to the event! As a young child, I would set in awe and wonder at the beautiful sight....I am still thrilled with fireworks, lights and waterfalls today!

So today, we (hubby and I) decided to stay at our home and enjoy a cookout with his Ma/Pa and Sister. We had such a good time making new memories! We had spent last weekend with the girls in Indianapolis...had a cookout and watched some fireworks there.

BUT, it is still different this year. No birthday party, no "gathering" of the usual family members. I think it has just been too hard... We know that God has Dad... We know that he would not want us to miss the "fun and fireworks".

So, tonight, I am going to a close city to watch some fireworks. I know that Dad would be pleased.... he enjoyed life... I want to too.

With all my heart I want to say, God Bless America! And God Bless our Families! We need God's blessings on them both so greatly!

Safe People

Yesterday, I told you that I would cover the "Safe People" topic today. Since the "Unsafe People" article yesterday was taken from the book by Doctors Henry Cloud and John Townshend, I thought I would use their list...But changed my mind when I came upon another blog site...

Would like you to allow me to introduce Jonathan Daugherty's "Safe People" list (http://www.jonathandaugherty.com/2006/11/who-are-safe-people.html). When I compared the two to share with you today, his list was easier to understand and relate to...hence, here is Jonathan's list for rules for "Safe People":

Who Are Safe People?

The following are 7 key characteristics present in safe people:

1. Safe people are non-judgmental.

When you get serious about dealing with your secret sins you need people who are not spending their time judging you for your mistakes. You struggle enough with self-condemnation, you don't need someone else telling you what a mess-up you are. Safe people don't judge you.

2. Safe people listen.

When you reach out for help you need people who will really listen to your struggles. Safe people let you share your story and all the difficulty you have faced in carrying your secret sin alone. There is a sort of empathy with safe people. While they may not have traveled the exact same road, they listen with their heart and want to truly help.

3. Safe people maintain strong boundaries.

One of the dangers of seeking out safe people is that you might be so amazed at their compassion and care that you begin to move too close too quickly, and possibly confuse genuine help with old patterns in your addiction. Safe people, however, also know how to establish and maintain healthy boundaries that represent appropriate interaction and assistance. For instance, a safe person will not miss their son's baseball game just because you are having a weak moment. They will give you their time and energy when it is appropriate and falls in line with their other priorities.

4. Safe people protect confidentiality.

Trust is critical in the healing and recovery process. And trust is gained when safe people protect your confidentiality. You must know that the deep, dark secrets you are sharing will not end up in the city newspaper over the weekend. Safe people take confidentiality very seriously and will carry your pain to their grave if they must in order to secure your trust.

5. Safe people tell the truth in love.

Some people who may appear to be safe are really just looking for a way to present themselves as superior. They may tell you the truth (i.e. "If you continue in this pattern, you will destroy your life"), but they do so in a harsh, angry fashion. Safe people know how to tell you the truth in love. They are not pointing out your weaknesses to pump themselves up, but rather to help you move toward a full-Godly life that truly brings satisfaction.

6. Safe people pray for wisdom (i.e. they are humble).

Anyone willing to help another person with their most vulnerable area of weakness must understand that they need wisdom. And gaining wisdom requires humility ("the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom"). You can often spot the safe people by how often they ask God for wisdom, knowing that apart from His leading they could lead you astray. These are the kind of people you want around when traveling the road of life.

7. Safe people help you get help.

Finally, safe people know their limitations and have a heart of willingness to get you the help you need. They will walk with you as you expand your network of support to include a counselor, support group, or other individuals to help you reach the goal of a Godly life. When dealing with life's difficulties you need those with a servant's heart to lead you to the appropriate help.

As you walk through life, keep your eyes open for safe people. They will become your greatest asset in a life well lived.

'Watching out' for the "unsafe person" has been a life-long job. Keeping an open eye and ear requires much patience and diligence. Good, 'safe' people will NOT just land in every area of your life! You must seek them to find them. Much like seeking and finding a "safe", one-true and living GOD!