Wednesday, July 31, 2019
Tuesday, July 30, 2019
Never had I ever
Before this month I had never ever tie dyed before. To be honest it's another thing that I was intimidated to do because I hadn't ever done it before. But when I was preparing for things to do with SweetPea this summer, I decided it was time we tried. I'm so glad I did!, we both really enjoy doing it!
We don't always get the results we are looking for but we have been quite pleased with the results so far. One one of the tops there seemed to be a pretty empty area of dye on the bodice of the top, so I decided to put a heart there. It actually turned out pretty good. She is really into unicorns right now. Wish I could figure out how to do a unicorn on one of them. I might just see what I can do. I mean really sometimes you have to just try. You never know if you can do something unless you try.
So now I am looking for a great white sleeveless top that I can tie dye for myself! I usually do not by white tops- they just are not that flattering on me so I don't waste my money on them. But now I am so looking forward to finding s great one!! If I do I will take photos and show you the results.
It's been a busy month with not only my granddaughter but also some health issues for my mother in law. My granddaughter and I have had a lot of fun. We have gone on cool field trips and learned some cool things. All in all its been a pretty good month. And since I already know I will really miss Hailee when she's gone I have already begun to plan some things I want to do. My quilt design wall idea wasn't really working because I had a cat that though she should climb the wall. So we took that set up down 6 months or so ago. Thankfully my husband phase an idea so hopefully that can be set up soon. We have a plan to get to the bottom of why my quilting machine has not been working and a way to get it fixed. I can't wait to get it fixed so I can get busy and get some projects finished. I have slowly been working on finishing up another set of Block of the month blocks. And I have found another awesome block that looks like a bow that I want to figure out how to make and then I may eventually take several of my favorite BOM blocks and create a great quilt! There ar so many great ideas I have I just have to work towards getting them all done.
And you know from yesterday's post that I plan on getting a fall garden going this year. I will begin preparing my garden soon. Right now I'm in the planning where to plant what. Gotta have a good plan set up, and that's what I'm doing.
I have my instant pot and IP Vortex and I plan on continuing to learn what awesome things I can do with them! I have found some awesome recipes so far!! The Internet has some great resources! Some
I hope you all are doing well and staying cool. It's becoming more and more challenging for those of us in Texas. Have a great rest of the day! :)
We don't always get the results we are looking for but we have been quite pleased with the results so far. One one of the tops there seemed to be a pretty empty area of dye on the bodice of the top, so I decided to put a heart there. It actually turned out pretty good. She is really into unicorns right now. Wish I could figure out how to do a unicorn on one of them. I might just see what I can do. I mean really sometimes you have to just try. You never know if you can do something unless you try.
So now I am looking for a great white sleeveless top that I can tie dye for myself! I usually do not by white tops- they just are not that flattering on me so I don't waste my money on them. But now I am so looking forward to finding s great one!! If I do I will take photos and show you the results.
It's been a busy month with not only my granddaughter but also some health issues for my mother in law. My granddaughter and I have had a lot of fun. We have gone on cool field trips and learned some cool things. All in all its been a pretty good month. And since I already know I will really miss Hailee when she's gone I have already begun to plan some things I want to do. My quilt design wall idea wasn't really working because I had a cat that though she should climb the wall. So we took that set up down 6 months or so ago. Thankfully my husband phase an idea so hopefully that can be set up soon. We have a plan to get to the bottom of why my quilting machine has not been working and a way to get it fixed. I can't wait to get it fixed so I can get busy and get some projects finished. I have slowly been working on finishing up another set of Block of the month blocks. And I have found another awesome block that looks like a bow that I want to figure out how to make and then I may eventually take several of my favorite BOM blocks and create a great quilt! There ar so many great ideas I have I just have to work towards getting them all done.
And you know from yesterday's post that I plan on getting a fall garden going this year. I will begin preparing my garden soon. Right now I'm in the planning where to plant what. Gotta have a good plan set up, and that's what I'm doing.
I have my instant pot and IP Vortex and I plan on continuing to learn what awesome things I can do with them! I have found some awesome recipes so far!! The Internet has some great resources! Some
I hope you all are doing well and staying cool. It's becoming more and more challenging for those of us in Texas. Have a great rest of the day! :)
Monday, July 29, 2019
Trial and Error
My garden has do on pretty well this year. There have been some successes and some... Well duds. I have learned a lot this year and continue to write down notes of what is working for me and what isn't. Gardening is really a trial and error type of thing. You never know if things will work for you unless you try it. If it works~ great, make note of it and triply it again next time. If not - try something different next time.
I have 3 varieties of small tomatoes and all three have done well. I will continue to get different varieties in the future. It makes my salads more colorful! In the past I have tried large variety of tomatoes with little success. I may try the again some day, just not yet.
This year I learned that I prefer the Japanese eggplant. The skinny fruit tends to work better and the skin seems thinner. This I will try again next time.
We tried cantaloupe again - first time in a very long time. We got several delicious cantaloupe. And we learned somethings that will help us have more success in the future. I had opportunity to go to a little gardening class at my church. I learned of a technique I want to try with my cantaloupe.
Bell peppers haven't don't that great. I heard from a gardening club in this area that it's a challenge to grow bell peppers in our area. I think I will try jalapenos in my fall garden.
Okra plants love the Texas heat. But apparently so do ants. I have had an issue with ants getting my okra- like actually getting into my okra. I will be doing some research to see what I can do about that.
My Swiss chard did really well- my only complaint is I didn't plant enough. Will probably plant twice as many for my fall garden.
My malibar spinach did very well as well- they grow upward. We placed a short fence by the planter I planted them in- the problem is I need to plant them next to a taller trellis- so they can grow taller. Hoping I can harvest seeds from them to have for my next garden.
Can you tell that I have my new gardening plans on my mind. I don't think we have every planted a fall garden before but that is about to change!! I have been researching what plants do well in a fall garden and I'm so excited that there is quite a few to choose from!! I have list of what I want to plant and when I need to plant. Now I need to draw a chart of my gardening area and decide where to plant things!! I am excited about this.
In the past I have allowed things to intimidate me. Thing I didn't know how to do well. But I am learning that many things are trial and error. We have to just Troy to do things - we won't know if we can unless we try. I got a new appliance for my anniversary a couple of weeks ago~ an Vortex. I was very intimidated by it, but since my husband was busy with other things. I got it out and I actually roasted myself some eggplants the very first day I got it! I was so proud of myself. Sometimes we just have to press passed the fear and try it. Accepting the fact we may fail- but then we can try again and see if we can get success.
Gardening takes a lot of trial and error. We gotta just try stuff till it works. I even suggest trying things you don't know if you would like or not. Growing your own might bring a new appreciation to a new food. I plan to plant radishes. I have not been too fond of radishes in the past. But I have hope that growing my own will change that. I will let you know! :0)
I have 3 varieties of small tomatoes and all three have done well. I will continue to get different varieties in the future. It makes my salads more colorful! In the past I have tried large variety of tomatoes with little success. I may try the again some day, just not yet.
This year I learned that I prefer the Japanese eggplant. The skinny fruit tends to work better and the skin seems thinner. This I will try again next time.
We tried cantaloupe again - first time in a very long time. We got several delicious cantaloupe. And we learned somethings that will help us have more success in the future. I had opportunity to go to a little gardening class at my church. I learned of a technique I want to try with my cantaloupe.
Bell peppers haven't don't that great. I heard from a gardening club in this area that it's a challenge to grow bell peppers in our area. I think I will try jalapenos in my fall garden.
Okra plants love the Texas heat. But apparently so do ants. I have had an issue with ants getting my okra- like actually getting into my okra. I will be doing some research to see what I can do about that.
My Swiss chard did really well- my only complaint is I didn't plant enough. Will probably plant twice as many for my fall garden.
My malibar spinach did very well as well- they grow upward. We placed a short fence by the planter I planted them in- the problem is I need to plant them next to a taller trellis- so they can grow taller. Hoping I can harvest seeds from them to have for my next garden.
Can you tell that I have my new gardening plans on my mind. I don't think we have every planted a fall garden before but that is about to change!! I have been researching what plants do well in a fall garden and I'm so excited that there is quite a few to choose from!! I have list of what I want to plant and when I need to plant. Now I need to draw a chart of my gardening area and decide where to plant things!! I am excited about this.
In the past I have allowed things to intimidate me. Thing I didn't know how to do well. But I am learning that many things are trial and error. We have to just Troy to do things - we won't know if we can unless we try. I got a new appliance for my anniversary a couple of weeks ago~ an Vortex. I was very intimidated by it, but since my husband was busy with other things. I got it out and I actually roasted myself some eggplants the very first day I got it! I was so proud of myself. Sometimes we just have to press passed the fear and try it. Accepting the fact we may fail- but then we can try again and see if we can get success.
Gardening takes a lot of trial and error. We gotta just try stuff till it works. I even suggest trying things you don't know if you would like or not. Growing your own might bring a new appreciation to a new food. I plan to plant radishes. I have not been too fond of radishes in the past. But I have hope that growing my own will change that. I will let you know! :0)
With My Own Eyes
There are many, many health studies that have been done that prove this point or that. Today I want to tell you about a bit of a different health study. This one is one I saw with my own eyes. And the results speak volumes about the choices made.
I have seen with my own eyes what just a few different choices can make in someones health. I know a set of twins that are 77 years old. One boy, one girl.
The boy smoked for a few years and then quit. He has stayed very active throughout his life.
The girl- smoked for about 56 years- quit when they found lung cancer. For a few years she was active. Then later working at a donut shop kept her a bit active but when she sold her store she no longer was very active. It was after she sold the store that the lung cancer was found. She was lucky - surgery to remove the lower lobe of the lung was all the treatment that was needed. The she had a heart attack and later had some blood clots- leading to having to be on blood thinners the rest of her life..
As I watch these two age I am able to see clearly the difference just a few difference choices can make. It's never too late to make the healthy choices.
And as Paul Harvey used to say ~ And here is the rest of the story!
The boy? He is still pretty active. He has had to have a surgery or two on his shoulder and has had some skin cancers removed(runs in the family) but over all he is in pretty good health.
The girl? Well recently she has ruptured a disk or two in her back and is in quite a bit of pain. She was recently told that she will probably be wheelchair or walker dependent the rest of her life.
Lesson we can learn? We need to make the choices that will give us the best chances at good health- not only for the present but also for the future.
I have seen with my own eyes what just a few different choices can make in someones health. I know a set of twins that are 77 years old. One boy, one girl.
The boy smoked for a few years and then quit. He has stayed very active throughout his life.
The girl- smoked for about 56 years- quit when they found lung cancer. For a few years she was active. Then later working at a donut shop kept her a bit active but when she sold her store she no longer was very active. It was after she sold the store that the lung cancer was found. She was lucky - surgery to remove the lower lobe of the lung was all the treatment that was needed. The she had a heart attack and later had some blood clots- leading to having to be on blood thinners the rest of her life..
As I watch these two age I am able to see clearly the difference just a few difference choices can make. It's never too late to make the healthy choices.
And as Paul Harvey used to say ~ And here is the rest of the story!
The boy? He is still pretty active. He has had to have a surgery or two on his shoulder and has had some skin cancers removed(runs in the family) but over all he is in pretty good health.
The girl? Well recently she has ruptured a disk or two in her back and is in quite a bit of pain. She was recently told that she will probably be wheelchair or walker dependent the rest of her life.
Lesson we can learn? We need to make the choices that will give us the best chances at good health- not only for the present but also for the future.
Sunday, July 28, 2019
Go to God
Just wanted to share a recent devotional from my Streams in the Desert Devotional. :O)
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You will hear a word spoken behind you, saying, “This is the correct way, walk in it,” whether you are heading to the right or the left. (Isa 30:21)
When we are in doubt or difficulty, when many voices urge this course or the other, when prudence utters one advice and faith another, then let us be still, hushing each intruder, calming ourselves in the sacred hush of God’s presence; let us study His Word in the attitude of devout attention; let us lift up our nature into the pure light of His face, eager only to know what God the Lord shall determine—and ere long a very distinct impression will be made, the unmistakable forth-telling of His secret counsel.
It is not wise in the earlier stages of Christian life to depend on this alone, but to wait for the corroboration of circumstances. But those who have had many dealings with God know well the value of secret fellowship with Him, to ascertain His will.
Are you in difficulty about your way? Go to God with your question; get direction from the light of His smile or the cloud of His refusal.
If you will only get alone, where the lights and shadows of earth cannot interfere, where human opinions fail to reach and if you will dare to wait there silent and expectant, though all around you insist on immediate decision or action—the will of God will be made clear; and you will have a new conception of God, a deeper insight into His nature and heart of love, which shall be for yourself alone a rapturous experience, to abide your precious perquisite forever, the rich guerdon of those long waiting hours.
—David
—David
- (guerdon~ a reward or recompense.)
“STAND STILL,” my soul, for so thy Lord commands:
E’en when thy way seems blocked, leave it in His wise hands;
His arm is mighty to divide the wave.
“Stand still,” my soul, “stand still” and thou shalt see
How God can work the “impossible” for thee,
For with a great deliverance He doth save.
E’en when thy way seems blocked, leave it in His wise hands;
His arm is mighty to divide the wave.
“Stand still,” my soul, “stand still” and thou shalt see
How God can work the “impossible” for thee,
For with a great deliverance He doth save.
Be not impatient, but in stillness stand,
Even when compassed ’round on every hand,
In ways thy spirit does not comprehend.
God cannot clear thy way till thou art still,
That He may work in thee His blessed will,
And all thy heart and will to Him do bend.
Even when compassed ’round on every hand,
In ways thy spirit does not comprehend.
God cannot clear thy way till thou art still,
That He may work in thee His blessed will,
And all thy heart and will to Him do bend.
“BE STILL,” my soul, for just as thou art still,
Can God reveal Himself to thee; until
Through thee His love and light and life can freely flow;
In stillness God can work through thee and reach
The souls around thee. He then through thee can teach
His lessons, and His power in weakness show.
Can God reveal Himself to thee; until
Through thee His love and light and life can freely flow;
In stillness God can work through thee and reach
The souls around thee. He then through thee can teach
His lessons, and His power in weakness show.
“BE STILL”—a deeper step in faith and rest.
“Be still and know” thy Father knoweth best
The way to lead His child to that fair land,
A “summer” land, where quiet waters flow;
Where longing souls are satisfied, and “know
Their God,” and praise for all that He has planned.
—Selected
“Be still and know” thy Father knoweth best
The way to lead His child to that fair land,
A “summer” land, where quiet waters flow;
Where longing souls are satisfied, and “know
Their God,” and praise for all that He has planned.
—Selected
Saturday, July 27, 2019
Friday, July 26, 2019
Just As Your Soul Prospers
Something amazing has happened the last several mornings. Many places get hot during the day but at night they cool off really well, not Texas. Usually our lows during the summer is in the upper 70's and sometimes even the lower 80's. I have thought for a long time that if only we could have a few cool mornings it would refresh our souls and help us get through summer. And I was right! The last several mornings the temps have been in the 60's and it has been glorious! I have been able to open up my windows and air out the house and enjoy the cooler weather. The only problem I have is that I'm not able to go walking. That would make these cool mornings perfect. But for now I will be thankful for this time with my Granddaughter. Not everyone has the blessing of spending a good amount of time with their grandchildren .
As I was working on a recent post I cam across something I couldn't resist sharing. It's about the desire of God for every human being. I hope it blesses you as it did me!
As I was working on a recent post I cam across something I couldn't resist sharing. It's about the desire of God for every human being. I hope it blesses you as it did me!
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
3 For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth.
3 John 2-3
"Satan Destroys; God Restores. The Saviour in His miracles revealed the power that is continually at work in man's behalf, to sustain and to heal him...
Sickness, suffering, and death are work of an antagonistic power. Satan is the destroyer; God is the restorer....
The desire of God for every human being is expressed in the words, "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as they soul prospereth:(3 John 3)." MH112,113
Thursday, July 25, 2019
How to See Ourselves Accurately
I have shared in the past how we had a couple that were in 12 step programs and they provided a great group at our church for many years. I finally went and was so glad that I went. One thing that was said that I did not quite get was - sometimes what bothers us the most about other people really says a lot about us. Many times those exact things are things we are guilty of. I didn't quite believe this. Since then I have had personal experience with this type thing. I hate that it took me so long to figure this out. Because as long as we are in denial - we can not change. We need to admit we have a problem in order to let it go. In order to let God step in and transform us.
9 "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it? Jeremiah 17:9
"How to See Ourselves Accurately. No man can of himself understand his errors...In one way only can a true knowledge of self be obtained. We must behold Christ....When we contemplate His purity and excellence, we shall see our own weakness and poverty and defects as they really are. We shall see ourselves lost and hopeless...We shall see that if we are ever saved, it will not be through our own goodness, but through God's infinite grace." COL159
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Tuesday, July 23, 2019
My Best Deal .... Series
So today I want to share several different best deals that I have gotten recently. Last week my granddaughter and I went to a local Goodwill. While we were there I let her look through the clothes her size. She is getting to the age that she enjoys looking and picking out what she likes. She found a 2 piece OP Swimming suit- for $2.19! What a deal. I really like the OP 2 piece sets because the top is long enough it looks like you are wearing a 1 piece. I think that 2 pieces made like this ca be more modest because you don't have to totally expose yourself to use the bathroom. She found a few other things that really liked-bswimming suit was the best deal that day!!
Last Sunday I had a chance to do some thrift store shopping on my own. First I hit a small thrift store nearby. They were having a sale $1.00 for all clothing! I love it when they do this sale. I don't always find things for me but it's fun looking. Sunday I had luck, quite a bit of luck really! I found a cute Croft and Barrow short set pj set. I almost didn't get it because it was a size large and it's been quite some time since I have worn a size large, but for 1.00 I couldn't pass it up. And guess what? It fits!!
I have seen the Lu La Roe brand clothing for quite some time. I knew I'd like some of their pieces but didn't want to pay the big bucks for them. Even at the consignment shop that I go to- many times they are 9.99 or above. At the $1.00 sale I found 2! They fit pretty good- closer to being loose though. I went a head and bought them because I'm sure I can get some use out of them. Later that day I found one that was exactly the same as one of the ones I had bought for a dollar- this one was a size smaller and fits great! It was $4.49! Still a great deal!! The bigger one will be gong to the consignment store in a couple of weeks.
I also found the cutest sleeveless tunic with pockets- for a dollar! It was a brand I had never heard of before- 42pops. not only did I get a great top at an awesome deal, I found a new great brand to check out!!
I'm so thankful for great deals like these!! They are blessing from God!!
Sorry for no photos this time. I just don't have the time to do that kind of post right now. I am actually writing up this post on my iPad while my granddaughter sleep. I just don't know how to get the photos and do them on my iPad. Hopefully by the next best deal post I will be able to include photos, I know that makes it more enjoyable.
Monday, July 22, 2019
A Few Tips To Be Better Prepared
Today I wanted to share some thoughts I have with you all based on some recent events in my life.
Several weeks ago I took my Mother in law to the ER. She was put in the hospital and then transferred to a rehab. center and is there now. I have been the one responsible for keeping her in clean clothes. When I took her to the ER we had no idea that she would be gone for several weeks so of course she hadn't packed a bag of clothes. This meant that I had to go to her house to gather up clothes. There were some clothes hanging on hooks in the laundry room, some laying over a rocking chair in her room, hanging on a shoe rack on her closet door and some hanging in the closet. She had said that some of the things did not fit her. This made it more challenging for me to get her clothes. Some of her clothes were clothes she wore at home - holey, stained. And some were in better shape to wear in public. The challenge was to figure out what was what and get clothes that she could wear and were in decent enough shape to take to her. This is one great example of why we need to have our clothes organized.
We need to have clothes in our closet that fit us. If the clothes don't fit - move them to the back corners of the closet or better yet - pack them in boxes or totes and label them. You will want to go through them periodically to see if they fit and if you can add them to the closet.
When I was looking for clothes for her to wear I was told about dirty clothes were in a laundry hamper and in a laundry basket. So here again - to make it easier for someone who may be coming in to take care of things - maybe pick one place for your dirty clothes. I actually have two laundry hamper in front of one side of my closet. One hamper is darks and one is for my light colored laundry. It is easier to see when I need to do a load of laundry. And it would be super easy if my husband or someone else had to do laundry.
Another thing that I would suggest is to have at least a couple of outfits that are lose and comfortable. For me this would be my exercise outfits. That I now keep together. If you are put in the hospital - you will probably want comfortable clothes. And if you already have a couple of outfits together you can easily tell someone where those clothes are. I keep my sets together so I can be ready to get dressed to work out- but it is a great way to be organized.
Anyway these are just a few of my thoughts on how you can be a bit more organized and make it easier on someone who may be having to come in and get clothes for you or need to do the laundry.
This will save someone a lot of extra unnecessary stress. It took me several trips to her house. How can you be more organized to make it easier - just in case....
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Several weeks ago I took my Mother in law to the ER. She was put in the hospital and then transferred to a rehab. center and is there now. I have been the one responsible for keeping her in clean clothes. When I took her to the ER we had no idea that she would be gone for several weeks so of course she hadn't packed a bag of clothes. This meant that I had to go to her house to gather up clothes. There were some clothes hanging on hooks in the laundry room, some laying over a rocking chair in her room, hanging on a shoe rack on her closet door and some hanging in the closet. She had said that some of the things did not fit her. This made it more challenging for me to get her clothes. Some of her clothes were clothes she wore at home - holey, stained. And some were in better shape to wear in public. The challenge was to figure out what was what and get clothes that she could wear and were in decent enough shape to take to her. This is one great example of why we need to have our clothes organized.
We need to have clothes in our closet that fit us. If the clothes don't fit - move them to the back corners of the closet or better yet - pack them in boxes or totes and label them. You will want to go through them periodically to see if they fit and if you can add them to the closet.
When I was looking for clothes for her to wear I was told about dirty clothes were in a laundry hamper and in a laundry basket. So here again - to make it easier for someone who may be coming in to take care of things - maybe pick one place for your dirty clothes. I actually have two laundry hamper in front of one side of my closet. One hamper is darks and one is for my light colored laundry. It is easier to see when I need to do a load of laundry. And it would be super easy if my husband or someone else had to do laundry.
Another thing that I would suggest is to have at least a couple of outfits that are lose and comfortable. For me this would be my exercise outfits. That I now keep together. If you are put in the hospital - you will probably want comfortable clothes. And if you already have a couple of outfits together you can easily tell someone where those clothes are. I keep my sets together so I can be ready to get dressed to work out- but it is a great way to be organized.
Anyway these are just a few of my thoughts on how you can be a bit more organized and make it easier on someone who may be having to come in and get clothes for you or need to do the laundry.
This will save someone a lot of extra unnecessary stress. It took me several trips to her house. How can you be more organized to make it easier - just in case....
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Sunday, July 21, 2019
It Wasn't Just Larry
She stood in front of the large mirror at the sink. She had just finished washing her hand. She began to comment on what a big mess she had made as she proceeded to clean it up. As she wiped down the counter around the sink and the mirror she shared a bit of her heart with those of us in the bathroom at church. She said she used to always find water splattered marks on counter and on the mirror at home and used to always complain to her husband about what a mess he had made. Sadly now that he has passed - she realizes that it wasn't just Larry who had been making the mess. And you could hear the remorse in her voice as she walked out of the bathroom saying.."It wasn't Larry." Regret for nagging him about being messy. Accepting her part in the situation and wishing she could go back and do it differently. She made a huge impact on me. She gave me something to ponder.
What things are we doing that later - when it is too late to repair the situation -we will regret? Is there a "Larry" in our lives that we may be putting the blame on for something- only to later realize - It wasn't just Larry.
What things are we doing that later - when it is too late to repair the situation -we will regret? Is there a "Larry" in our lives that we may be putting the blame on for something- only to later realize - It wasn't just Larry.
Saturday, July 20, 2019
Friday, July 19, 2019
"The Lord is my strength"
Just wanted to share a recent "Streams in the Desert" Devotional with you. May you find strength for your journey! :O)
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The Lord hath sent strength for thee (Ps.68.28, PBV).
The Lord imparts unto us that primary strength of character which makes everything in life work with intensity and decision. We are "strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man." And the strength is continuous; reserves of power come to us which we cannot exhaust.
"As thy days, so shall thy strength be"—strength of will, strength of affection, strength of judgment, strength of ideals and achievement.
"The Lord is my strength" to go on. He gives us power to tread the dead level, to walk the long lane that seems never to have a turning, to go through those long reaches of life which afford no pleasant surprise, and which depress the spirits in the sameness of a terrible drudgery.
"The Lord is my strength" to go up. He is to me the power by which I can climb the Hill Difficulty and not be afraid.
"The Lord is my strength" to go down. It is when we leave the bracing heights, where the wind and the sun have been about us, and when we begin to come down the hill into closer and more sultry spheres, that the heart is apt to grow faint. I heard a man say the other day concerning his growing physical frailty, "It is the coming down that tires me!"
"The Lord is my strength" to sit still. And how difficult is the attainment! Do we not often say to one another, in seasons when we are compelled to be quiet, "If only I could do something!"
When the child is ill, and the mother stands by in comparative impotence, how severe is the test! But to do nothing, just to sit still and wait, requires tremendous strength.
"The Lord is my strength!" "Our sufficiency is of God" (2 Cor. 3:5. from The Silver Lining
Thursday, July 18, 2019
A New Look At Psalm 23
Today I wanted to share Psalm 23rd with you. This is how the verse is in my NET Bible. I also want to share a couple of little notes that are given in the NET Bible so you can have a glimpse of why I love this Bible.
23 A psalm of David .
The Lord is my shepherd ,
I lack nothing .
2 He takes me to lush pastures ,
he leads me to refreshing water .
3 He restores my strength .
He leads me down the right paths
*"The underlying reality is a profound theological truth: God must look out for the best interest of the one he has promised to protect, because if he failys to do so, his faithfulness could legitimately be called into question and his reputation damaged."
4 Even when I must walk through the darkest valley ,
*"The life-threatening situations faced by the psalmist are the underlying reality behind the imagery."
I fear no danger ,
your rod and your staff reassure me.
*"Comfort, console.. But here, within the metaphorical framework, it refers to the way in which the shepherd uses his implements to assure the sheep of his presence and calm their nerves. The underlying reality is the emotional stability God provides the psalmist during life threatening situations."
5 You prepare a feast before me
*"The reality behind the imagery is the Lords' favor. Through his blessings and protection he demonstrates to everyone, including dangerous enemies, that the psalmist has a special relationship with him."
You refresh my head with oil ;
my cup is completely full .
6 Surely your goodness and faithfulness will pursue me all my days ,
and I will live in the Lord ’s house for the rest of my life.
There are many other notes and I may later do another post on Psalm 23 to share some of the others but for now be blessed with these and if you would like you can click HERE to check out the other notes of Psalm 23
Wednesday, July 17, 2019
Tuesday, July 16, 2019
Howard and the Dragon Fly
Recently I learned that dragonflies eat mosquitoes which has caused me to really like them and appreciate them more. When I googled this fact to make sure it was correct before sharing about it hear I learned that in the aquatic larval stage the more damage is done to the mosquito population. The site I was reading said this larva stage can last up to six years~Wow!
A couple of weeks ago I went to a funeral. Howard was the husband of my son's teacher. He was a quiet man and I hadn't personally gotten to know him. As I listened to the testimonies of his large family I learned that this man, even though he was quiet had been a great, uplifting example to his family and friends. And as I listened to the little stories I was reminded of the importance of all of our choices, big and small. As we live our lives, those around us can't help but see and are influenced many times by our choices. And just like the dragon fly we may be doing more good for our environment than is realized.
A couple of weeks ago I went to a funeral. Howard was the husband of my son's teacher. He was a quiet man and I hadn't personally gotten to know him. As I listened to the testimonies of his large family I learned that this man, even though he was quiet had been a great, uplifting example to his family and friends. And as I listened to the little stories I was reminded of the importance of all of our choices, big and small. As we live our lives, those around us can't help but see and are influenced many times by our choices. And just like the dragon fly we may be doing more good for our environment than is realized.
Monday, July 15, 2019
My New Bible
I have several different study Bibles, each one brings something special to Bible studies. Several weeks ago when I heard about the NET Bible - I had to look into it. As I did I realized I had to have it. I knew it would help me understand the Bible better.
You don't have to buy the Bible in order to check it out- below I will have a link where you can check it out for yourselves. There is also a free app for cell phones that you can get. The reason why I bought the Bible is because I do most of my Bible studying at my desk in my bedroom. And I just love books and like to have easy access to my resources. But like I said you can get on line or download an app on your phone. I think this Bible will give many insights into the study of this special love note from God.
This is a photo of the first page of the book of Proverbs. I wanted you to see all the notes that go along with the text. Many times there are more note than texts on a page. Many great insights in the notes. Gives a deeper meaning to why certain words were used in the text and gives clearer understanding.
I am so thankful that I was able to get myself a copy of this Bible. I just know it will be used a lot and will be cherished!
Sunday, July 14, 2019
Like A Ripple in the Ocean...
Like a ripple in the ocean, other people's behaviors affect us. Sometimes in positive ways and sometimes their actions hurt us. One thing is for sure we can not control how others act. We can't control their actions or choices. Oh....we may try and sometimes we may even be successful but the only one we truly can control is ourselves. And the sad truth is that even then we struggle. Sometimes it's hard to even control ourselves.
Recently I have been struggling with the choices of some loved ones. Their choices have hurt me to the very core, but I don't have the power to change the situation. Oh I have tried but to no avail.
I have struggled with that sad, sick feeling and I know it can't be good for my health, so I have turned to God even more. Asking Him to help me process this pain and help me to let go of it. I want Him to help me to put my trust in Him and that He will work all things, even this, for my good. But God's timing is not my timing. I would like to have everything settled and working smoothly - the way I would like it also, but God's timing tells me to have patience. It tells me to keep my eyes on Him. Allow Him to minister to my heart and to calm my anxious soul. I'm learning to depend on Him more and more. I am learning to turn to Him each time the pain arises. He will sustain me. I can count on Him. I may not be able to control the decisions of others- but I can put my hope in God. I can put my faith in Him to sustain me and I can count on His peace to calm my soul. And in all of this, I can be thankful and praise His holy name for His unconditional love and acceptance, faithfulness, for His forgiveness and that He is full of mercy. Praise the Lord!
Recently I have been struggling with the choices of some loved ones. Their choices have hurt me to the very core, but I don't have the power to change the situation. Oh I have tried but to no avail.
I have struggled with that sad, sick feeling and I know it can't be good for my health, so I have turned to God even more. Asking Him to help me process this pain and help me to let go of it. I want Him to help me to put my trust in Him and that He will work all things, even this, for my good. But God's timing is not my timing. I would like to have everything settled and working smoothly - the way I would like it also, but God's timing tells me to have patience. It tells me to keep my eyes on Him. Allow Him to minister to my heart and to calm my anxious soul. I'm learning to depend on Him more and more. I am learning to turn to Him each time the pain arises. He will sustain me. I can count on Him. I may not be able to control the decisions of others- but I can put my hope in God. I can put my faith in Him to sustain me and I can count on His peace to calm my soul. And in all of this, I can be thankful and praise His holy name for His unconditional love and acceptance, faithfulness, for His forgiveness and that He is full of mercy. Praise the Lord!
Saturday, July 13, 2019
Friday, July 12, 2019
His Hand At Work
Monday July 8th started just like other July days, but by the end of the day God's providence was clearly seen through out the entire day.
SweetPea slept in late and by the time we got back to my house and got breakfast it was almost lunch time. I needed to pick up a few things from Aldi's so a trip to a nearby town was in order.
SweetPea has grown since last summer and up a size. I went through her clothes and ended up having to pull quite a few of her shorts. I thought that it might be a good idea for us to go by Goodwill and look for some clothes for her. So we left the house with the plan to hit Goodwill first and then Aldi's. As we were driving the 20 minute drive to town- I looked at the time and noticed how late it was and realized I would still need to make supper for everyone. I felt a strong feeling that we probably ought to just get to Aldi's and get back home.
Not long after we arrived back at home a really good friend, that I hadn't talked to in over a year or so, called. She and her husband had been living near her parents and an aunt, helping to take care of all of them. Anyway we talked for over 2 hours.
During the course of the conversation, she had asked how our pets were doing- chickens and cats. I had mentioned that our oldest cat, Lulu, was not doing very well and that I figured we would loose her within the year. Not too long after that I decided to get to the kitchen to start supper. As I walked through the dining room I looked out in the sunroom and saw Lulu. I instantly knew shew as in really bad shape. The look in her eyes and how she was breathing gave it away. I stepped back to the living room to get my husband. I was still on the phone but needed him to go to Lulu. I quickly told my friend that I thought we were looking Lulu right then. My friend has a precious heart, she praied for for Lulu and for us and told me to let her know what happened. I truily believe it was her prayer that helped Lulu to pass without going through a lot of pain. I was able to pet her and tell her how much we loved her and how she had been a great pet to us. My husband walked back into the room - prepared to take her to the vet. I said to him, "I don't think she will make it that long" and sure enough she had passed right after I had talked to her. We cried. But I was also thankful that she didn't have to suffer a long time - that is the hardest part for me - to see my pets suffer.
I think back over the day - how God had orchestrated that I would be home to get the phone call. The story behind why she called me and that we had been on the phone so she could pray with me and even that God nudged me to go to the kitchen when I did. Had I not listened to him - I may have just found her dead and not had the chance to tell her that we loved her.
God worked it all out. Plus I had really wanted to get back in contact with this friend again. She is a life long friend. Not that I have known her all my life - but that she is a friend I will have the rest of my life. We have been friends for over 15 years. We have shared some ups and downs. She is the friend who taught me that people can have disagreements or squabbles and work through them and be even better friends than they were before.She has a beautiful testimony and even though she is hesitant to share with everyone, she trusted me enough to share it with me.
Anyway I am so grateful for God's watch care and how even though I didn't know what the day held. He did. He worked things out. He cares about us and if we pay attention, we can see his had at work. The day may have begun like other days but it didn't end like them. This day I could clearly see God at work. May I continue to pay attention to the details and see His hands at work.
SweetPea slept in late and by the time we got back to my house and got breakfast it was almost lunch time. I needed to pick up a few things from Aldi's so a trip to a nearby town was in order.
SweetPea has grown since last summer and up a size. I went through her clothes and ended up having to pull quite a few of her shorts. I thought that it might be a good idea for us to go by Goodwill and look for some clothes for her. So we left the house with the plan to hit Goodwill first and then Aldi's. As we were driving the 20 minute drive to town- I looked at the time and noticed how late it was and realized I would still need to make supper for everyone. I felt a strong feeling that we probably ought to just get to Aldi's and get back home.
Not long after we arrived back at home a really good friend, that I hadn't talked to in over a year or so, called. She and her husband had been living near her parents and an aunt, helping to take care of all of them. Anyway we talked for over 2 hours.
During the course of the conversation, she had asked how our pets were doing- chickens and cats. I had mentioned that our oldest cat, Lulu, was not doing very well and that I figured we would loose her within the year. Not too long after that I decided to get to the kitchen to start supper. As I walked through the dining room I looked out in the sunroom and saw Lulu. I instantly knew shew as in really bad shape. The look in her eyes and how she was breathing gave it away. I stepped back to the living room to get my husband. I was still on the phone but needed him to go to Lulu. I quickly told my friend that I thought we were looking Lulu right then. My friend has a precious heart, she praied for for Lulu and for us and told me to let her know what happened. I truily believe it was her prayer that helped Lulu to pass without going through a lot of pain. I was able to pet her and tell her how much we loved her and how she had been a great pet to us. My husband walked back into the room - prepared to take her to the vet. I said to him, "I don't think she will make it that long" and sure enough she had passed right after I had talked to her. We cried. But I was also thankful that she didn't have to suffer a long time - that is the hardest part for me - to see my pets suffer.
I think back over the day - how God had orchestrated that I would be home to get the phone call. The story behind why she called me and that we had been on the phone so she could pray with me and even that God nudged me to go to the kitchen when I did. Had I not listened to him - I may have just found her dead and not had the chance to tell her that we loved her.
God worked it all out. Plus I had really wanted to get back in contact with this friend again. She is a life long friend. Not that I have known her all my life - but that she is a friend I will have the rest of my life. We have been friends for over 15 years. We have shared some ups and downs. She is the friend who taught me that people can have disagreements or squabbles and work through them and be even better friends than they were before.She has a beautiful testimony and even though she is hesitant to share with everyone, she trusted me enough to share it with me.
Anyway I am so grateful for God's watch care and how even though I didn't know what the day held. He did. He worked things out. He cares about us and if we pay attention, we can see his had at work. The day may have begun like other days but it didn't end like them. This day I could clearly see God at work. May I continue to pay attention to the details and see His hands at work.
Thursday, July 11, 2019
Middle of This Storm
When I went through the "cancer adventure" and all it involves I struggled with the "whys?" I just didn't understand. Others and even some in my own family had had cancer adventures that stopped at surgery and I just could not understand why I had to go through all the aspects of it. But a couple of years down the road I realized that it had been a very helpful thing that I had gone through it so that when my mother in law was diagnosed with cancer I could be more compassionate.
I, again, find myself in uncharted waters and not particularly enjoying this adventure but I am putting my trust in God; that He will use this situation as well. I know now that I have new insight into this situation and will have more compassion for those in a similar boat.
But in the meantime, in the middle of this storm, I choose to wait on the LORD.
I, again, find myself in uncharted waters and not particularly enjoying this adventure but I am putting my trust in God; that He will use this situation as well. I know now that I have new insight into this situation and will have more compassion for those in a similar boat.
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."
Romans 8:28
But in the meantime, in the middle of this storm, I choose to wait on the LORD.
14 Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord! Psalm 27:14
And I love how my new Bible put this verse:
Rely on the LORD!
Be strong and confident!
Rely on the LORD!
Psalm 27:14 NET Bible
I will be sharing more about my new Bible soon :O)
Wednesday, July 10, 2019
Tuesday, July 9, 2019
Construction Comparisons...part 3
Does a house build itself? Have you ever seen a house putting its walls up? Have you seen a house putting on a rook? Or maybe you have seen a house paint itself? Silly questions aren't they? But what is even sillier than that is us thinking that by our own strength we can build a character similiar to that of Jesus. The only think we can do is to become like clay in the potters hands.
"Potter and Clay. The great Master Worker desires to mold and fashion us. And as the clay is in the hands of the potter, so are we to be in His hand. We are not to try to do the work of the potter. Our part is to yield ourselves to be molded by the Master Worker." MH472
But now, O Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand. Isaiah 64:8
Just as a house can not build itself, neither can we transform ourselves. The good news is that God does not expect us to do this work. He provides everything needed to be like Him.
I leave you with this beautiful song about being in the Potter's Hand. :O)
But now, O Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand. Isaiah 64:8
Just as a house can not build itself, neither can we transform ourselves. The good news is that God does not expect us to do this work. He provides everything needed to be like Him.
I leave you with this beautiful song about being in the Potter's Hand. :O)
Monday, July 8, 2019
My Best Deal Becomes God's Providence
Eight mouths ago I found a great deal! $2.00 for a good amount of fabric. At the time I thought it was such a great deal and now I am even more thankful for it!! In with all the fabric I found were these 8 fat quarters! What an awesome find!! Well my nephew and his wife are expecting their first child which is thought to be a boy. I knew I wanted to make a quilt for them but was a bit discouraged because I had forgotten about this deal. And with my quilt shop shut down I did not know how I was gonna get the fabric to make the quilt. Then I ran across the pile of these fat quarters in one of my drawers and was thrilled again by God's providence!!
If you would like to check out the original post about these fat quarters click here: My Best Deal
Now I just need to find another stack of fat quarters - because I found out another nephew's wife is pregnant and I will need to make a quilt for them as well. :o)
I have my granddaughter this month so I probably won't get working on this quilt till August but I can spend some time here and there on the planning part. I will post photo of quilt when I finish it.
If you would like to check out the original post about these fat quarters click here: My Best Deal
Now I just need to find another stack of fat quarters - because I found out another nephew's wife is pregnant and I will need to make a quilt for them as well. :o)
Sunday, July 7, 2019
A Surprise in the Garden
When I bought my eggplant plants - I had no idea what a great choice I had made! As my little eggplants grew - I noticed they were long and skinny. I was thinking - I wonder when they are going to get fat? Well I mentioned my skinny eggplants to a gardening friend and she said there are different varieties of eggplants and some are long and skinny. Once I got home I checked the little tab that came with the plants and sure enough I had bought Japanese eggplants - which are long and skinny.
Saturday, July 6, 2019
Sabbath Praise ~ His Sheep Am I
It's summer time so I will be sharing some songs that I remember singing at CampMeeting - then and now. I hope you enjoy these songs.
I'd love to hear in the comments what your favorite songs were to sing at Campmeeting or VBS. :O)
I'd love to hear in the comments what your favorite songs were to sing at Campmeeting or VBS. :O)
Friday, July 5, 2019
Taking It For Granted No Longer
Going a week and a half without a working washing machine certainly reminded me of things to be thankful for. I was reminded during that time that not everyone has the luxury of having a washer and dryer- and it is truly a luxury. You are reminded of that when yours are not working.
I am reminded of how thankful I am for a good amount of clothes so that I don't have to stress about having to get my laundry done so I can have something to wear. I like keeping up with my laundry by washing 2 times a week. This works great for me. But I am so thankful to have enough clothes that I can go a week and a half without a working washer and I still had options of what to wear each day.
Sometimes it takes not having something to make us realize how much we truly appreciate it. Let us try to live our lives in such a way that we don't have to lose something in order to realize how thankful and grateful we are for it.
What are some things that you may be taking for granted? Why not take a few moments to thank God for these often over looked blessings. I know I am.
I am thankful that the part came in for my washer on Tuesday afternoon and just a few minutes later - my husband had my washer working. And yes I started my laundry right then and got all 3 of my loads done! It felt great to be able to get my laundry done!! What a blessing to have a working washer and dryer!! :O)
I am reminded of how thankful I am for a good amount of clothes so that I don't have to stress about having to get my laundry done so I can have something to wear. I like keeping up with my laundry by washing 2 times a week. This works great for me. But I am so thankful to have enough clothes that I can go a week and a half without a working washer and I still had options of what to wear each day.
Sometimes it takes not having something to make us realize how much we truly appreciate it. Let us try to live our lives in such a way that we don't have to lose something in order to realize how thankful and grateful we are for it.
What are some things that you may be taking for granted? Why not take a few moments to thank God for these often over looked blessings. I know I am.
I am thankful that the part came in for my washer on Tuesday afternoon and just a few minutes later - my husband had my washer working. And yes I started my laundry right then and got all 3 of my loads done! It felt great to be able to get my laundry done!! What a blessing to have a working washer and dryer!! :O)
Thursday, July 4, 2019
Time To Celebrate
Happy July 4th to you and your family! Our family will be enjoying family time today. A great parade in a town nearby and a family dinner. It's great to have a holiday to celebrate! Enjoy! :O)
Wednesday, July 3, 2019
Healthy Tidbits ~G-BOMBS
Here is a great video - only about 15 minutes long in which Dr. Joel Furhman talks about G-BOMBS. Are you eating your g-bombs every day?
Some great information! :O)
Some great information! :O)
Tuesday, July 2, 2019
Construction Comparisons....part 2
Last time we talked about constructing a home and how it is very similar to the construction of a Christian. We talked about how a good foundation is very important in both and that all the work is not done all at one time. It is a step by step process till it is finished.
In building a home sometimes when the weather is unfavorable- construction stops and waits for weather conditions to clear up. But in the Christian life some of the best work is done in unfavorable conditions.
"Through conflict the spiritual life is strengthened. Trials well borne will develop steadfastness of character and precious spiritual graces. The perfect fruit of faith, meekness, and love often matures best amid storm clouds and darkness." COL61
But even through the trials which are working out God's purposes, we can find peace.
You will keep him in perfect peace,
Whose mind is stayed on You,
Because he trusts in You.
Whose mind is stayed on You,
Because he trusts in You.
Isaiah 26:3 NKJV
I had to look up this word to see what it meant in order to get a better understanding of this quote:
Acquiescence ~ to accept. comply, or submit without open opposition.
Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever;
Do not forsake the works of Your hands.
Psalm 138:8 NKJV
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