Nanna's Reflections

Mom's Clothesline

2012-02-02T12:18:00.000-05:00

Well, hi, folks. Sorry I'm not blogging much these days, but hope all is well with my old friends. Got this email a few days ago, and yesterday my clothesline fell down, so it seemed appropriate to post this while my dear hubby right now tries to hook it to a different tree.

Love this one and yes,there were people who really did all the correct things in hanging clothes.

I remember my grandmother and mother doing all of these things.

Of course you washed the whites first, then the mediumcolored and last was the dark dirty work clothes. I've seen this done in duringa drought, you used the wash water to wash the floor, then it was dumped on thefew dried veggies you had growing. The rinse water you washed the kids feet andit also got dumped on the veggie patches.

Remembering Mom's Clothesline

There is one thing that's left out. We had a longwooden pole (clothes pole) that was used to push the clotheslines up so thatlonger items (sheets/pants/etc.) didn't brush the ground and get dirty.

You have to be a "certain age" to appreciatethis one....

(But you YOUNGER ones can read about "The GOODol' days"!!)

I can hear my mother now.....

THE BASIC RULES FOR CLOTHESLINES:

(If you don't even know what clotheslines are, betterskip this.)

1. You had to hang the socks by the toes... NOT thetop.

2. You hung pants by the BOTTOM/cuffs... NOT thewaistbands.

3. You had to WASH the clothesline(s) before hangingany clothes - walk the entire length of each line with a damp cloth around thelines.

4. You had to hang the clothes in a certain order, andalways hang "whites" with "whites," and hang them first.

5. You NEVER hung a shirt by the shoulders - always bythe tail! What would the neighbors think?

6. Wash day on a Monday! NEVER hang clothes on theweekend, or on Sunday, for Heaven's sake!

7. Hang the sheets and towels on the OUTSIDE lines soyou could hide your "unmentionables" in the middle (perverts &busybodies, y'know!)

8. It didn't matter if it was sub-zero weather...clothes would "freeze-dry."

9. ALWAYS gather the clothes pins when taking down dryclothes! Pins left on the lines were "tacky"!

10. If you were efficient, you would line the clothesup so that each item did not need two clothes pins, but shared one of theclothes pins with the next washed item.

11. Clothes off of the line before dinner time, neatlyfolded in the clothes basket, and ready to be ironed.

12. IRONED???!! Well, that's a whole OTHER subject!

And now a POEM ...

A clothesline was a news forecast, To neighbourspassing by,

There were no secrets you could keep, When clotheswere hung to dry.

It also was a friendly link, For neighbours alwaysknew

If company had stopped on by, To spend a night or two.

For then you'd see the "fancy sheets", Andtowels upon the line;

You'd see the "company table cloths", Withintricate designs.

The line announced a baby's birth, From folks wholived inside,

As brand new infant clothes were hung, So carefullywith pride!

The ages of the children could, So readily be known

By watching how the sizes changed, You'd know how muchthey'd grown!

It also told when illness struck, As extra sheets werehung;

Then nightclothes, and a bathrobe too, Haphazardlywere strung.

It also said, "On vacation now", When lineshung limp and bare.

It told, "We're back!" when full linessagged, With not an inch to spare!

New folks in town were scorned upon, If wash was dingyand gray,

As neighbours' carefully raised their brows, And lookedthe other way.

But clotheslines now are of the past, For dryers makework much less.

Now what goes on inside a home, Is anybody's guess!

I really miss that way of life, It was a friendly sign

When neighbors' knew each other best... By what hungout on that line.

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-24T12:23:00.001-05:00

Many blessings to you and your family as we celebrate His first coming!

Thou didst leave thy throne
And thy kingly crown
ManyWhen thou camest to earth for me,
But in Bethlehem's home
Was there found no room
For Thy holy nativity:
O come to my heart Lord Jesus;
There is room in my heart for thee!

Heaven's arches rang
When the angels sang
Proclaiming Thy royal degree;
But of lowly birth
Cam'st Thou, Lord, on earth,
And in great humility;
O come to my heart Lord Jesus;
There is room in my heart for thee!

The foxes found rest
And the bird its nest
In the shade of the forest tree;
But Thy couch was the sod,
O Thou Son of God,
In the deserts of Galilee:
O come to my heart Lord Jesus;
There is room in my heart for thee!

Thou camest, O Lord,
With the living word,
That should set Thy people free;
But, with mocking scorn,
And with crown of thorn,
They bore Thee to Calvary:
O come to my heart Lord Jesus;
Thy Cross is my only plea!

When heaven's arches shall ring,
And her choirs shall sing
At Thy coming to victory,
Let they voice call me home,
Saying, 'Yet there is room-
There is room at My side for thee!'
And my heart shall rejoice, Lord Jesus,
When Thou camest and callest for me.

For Waltons Lovers

2011-12-02T18:47:00.001-05:00

Giving Thanks

2011-11-23T10:04:00.001-05:00

If these darling creatures can give thanks for God's provisions, then surely we can. Hope you are all well and your families blessed of the Lord. We are doing fine.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Cooler Corn

2011-10-14T23:18:00.000-04:00

Photograph by Scott DeSimon

This is one of those forwards I like to pass on from time to time, so here it is:

Am I the only person who hasn't heard of "cooler corn"?

As an obsessive food nerd, you'd expect that I would have at least heard of it, but over the weekend I was blindsided by the simple genius of this method for cooking loads of corn on the cob perfectly.

I was hepped to it while visiting my family in Maine. Short story: We like corn on the cob. And with eight adults at the table, that means a couple of dozen ears. We would have used the lobster pot to cook them all, but the lobster pot was busy steaming lobster.Then my sister, a capable Maine cook with years of camping experience says "let's do cooler corn!" Before I can ask "what is cooler corn?" a Coleman cooler appears from the garage, is wiped clean, then filled with the shucked ears. Next, two kettles-full of boiling water are poured over the corn and the top closed.

Then nothing.

When we sat down to dinner 30 minutes later and opened it, the corn was perfectly cooked. My mind was blown. And I'm told that the corn will remain at the perfect level of doneness for a couple of hours.

Turns out, Cooler Corn is pretty well known among the outdoorsy set But for those of us who avoid tents as much as possible, it's perfect for large barbecues and way less of mess than grilling. In fact, I may even buy another cooler just so I'm ready for next summer. Now that I'm in the know.

__._,_.___

Three Year Old Shana!

2011-10-10T20:19:00.000-04:00

Well you can see early autumn is grandchildren birthday time in our family, and today it's Shana's time to shine. Three years old!!

Shana, you are our sweet little cuddly girl. Always ready and willing to snuggle with the people you love. You make us happy when you look at us with those eyes and give us those hugs and kisses. You're a big girl. now!! For almost three years you've been the baby girl and the little sister, but now you're also a big sister. You really surprised some of us. Being the baby for all your life, I was thinking MAYBE you'd be just a little envious of the new baby that was coming to your house, But almost a month ago, your new little sister arrived and NOBODY loves her more than you do. I remember how you warmed our hearts the way you kept saying "Awwwww, look at her. Look at the little baby. Look at her little hands. Awww." Well you've always been one who loves baby dolls and now you have one who's living and breathing right in your house. And you're still as sweet to her as the first day, giving her lots of kisses. Someday, I think you're going to be a good mommy and your children will love you as much as you love your own mommy.

Someday, we all hope you will be as accepting and loving to Jesus as you are to the people you care about. Someday, we all hope you'll live up to the Proverbs 31:30 verse your mommy and daddy have given you to live by, and that you will be a woman who fears the Lord, and that will make you beautiful.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Hugs and Kisses,

Nanna

Another Girlie!!

2011-09-18T23:30:00.000-04:00

God in His kind mercies has added another girlie to our family. My husband and I are rejoicing to see yet another granddaughter added to the number. Now there are three!!! Sariah Grace arrived on Tuesday, September 13, 2011, weighing in at seven pounds, two ounces, 20 inches long, and adorable as all get out!

If you will look closely, you will see the loving hands of her big sister, Shana, who was the last arrival almost three years ago. (How time has flown.) Big sister, Selena, now five, was somewhere around too. I don't know which one adores her more!

All you grandmoms are sure to know the excitement we're feeling right now. We are richly blessed.

Five Years Old!

2011-09-04T20:20:00.003-04:00

I can hardly believe it was five years ago today. I heard your first cries from the other side of the curtain in the delivery room and waited so your daddy and mommy could have a few minutes with just the three of you. When I first saw you, you were only about three minutes old and I loved you right from the start. Actually even before that. There was a lot of excitement that day and there were many people who came to see you and they all fell in love with you as soon as they saw you. Of course for me, PopPop and Auntie Nee, our love for you has only grown as these five years have gone by. But that's because you're so easy to love. You have such a bright and happy spirit. You're so helpful and friendly and excited about learning new things. The Lord has given you a mind that likes learning new things which you are very good at. You are a blessing to all of us and we thank the Lord for bringing you into our lives.

Our biggest prayer for you is not so much that you be smarter than anybody else or that you can run faster or jump higher than anybody else, but that you will love Jesus with all your heart and that he helps you to be the kind of person that pleases Him. We kind of think we see Him already working in your heart and that makes all of us very happy.

Thanks for wanting to share your big day with us. We had a wonderful time with you and Shae-Shae this weekend.

God bless you, dear Selena, and may heaven smile on you this coming year.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Kisses and Hugs,

Nanna

Beautiful Savior

2011-09-04T00:00:00.002-04:00

Please forgive me my dear friends for my gross neglect of this blog and of you. Please be blessed by this reminder of the beauty of our Savior, which I posted before. He is worthy of all our praise.

To Kill an American

2011-08-19T10:14:00.007-04:00

(Received in a forwarded email recently)

You probably missed this in the rush of news, but there was actually a report that someone in Pakistan had published in a newspaper, an offer of a reward to anyone who killed an American, any American.
So an Australian dentist wrote an editorial the following day to let everyone know what an American is . So they would know when they found one. (Good one, mate!!!!)
'An American is English, or French, or Italian, Irish, German, Spanish , Polish, Russian or Greek. An American may also be Canadian, Mexican, African, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Australian, Iranian, Asian, or Arab, or Pakistani or Afghan.
An American may also be a Comanche, Cherokee, Osage, Blackfoot, Navaho, Apache, Seminole or one of the many other tribes known as native Americans.

An American is Christian , or he could be Jewish, or Buddhist, or Muslim. In fact, there are more Muslims in America than in Afghanistan . The only difference is that in America they are free to worship as each of them chooses.

An American is also free to believe in no religion.. For that he will answer only to God, not to the government, or to armed thugs claiming to speak for the government and for God.

An American lives in the most prosperous land in the history of the world. The root of that prosperity can be found in the Declaration of Independence , which recognizes the God given right of each person to the pursuit of happiness.

An American is generous.. Americans have helped out just about every other nation in the world in their time of need, never asking a thing in return.

When Afghanistan was over-run by the Soviet army 20 years ago, Americans came with arms and supplies to enable the people to win back their country!

As of the morning of September 11, Americans had given more than any other nation to the poor in Afghanistan .. The national symbol of America , The Statue of Liberty , welcomes your tired and your poor, the wretched refuse of your teeming shores, the homeless, tempest tossed. These in fact are the people who built America.

Some of them were working in the Twin Towers the morning of September 11 , 2001 earning a better life for their families. It's been told that the World Trade Center victims were from at least 30 different countries, cultures, and first languages, including those that aided and abetted the terrorists. So you can try to kill an American if you must. Hitler did. So did General Tojo , and Stalin , and Mao Tse-Tung, and other blood-thirsty tyrants in the world.. But, in doing so you would just be killing yourself . Because Americans are not a particular people from a particular place. They are the embodiment of the human spirit of freedom. Everyone who holds to that spirit, everywhere, is an American.

Are You Up for This?

2011-07-15T20:04:00.003-04:00

THIS IS GREAT for wordsmiths! Read all the way to the end. This took a lot of work to put together.

You think English is easy???
Read to the end ... a new twist

1) The bandage was wound around the wound.

2) The farm was used to produce produce.

3) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.

4) We must polish the Polish furniture.

5) He could lead if he would get the lead out.

6) The peasant decided to desert his dessert in the desert.

7) Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present.

8) A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum.

9) When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.

10) I did not object to the object.

11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid.

12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row.

13) They were too close to the door to close it.

14) The buck does funny things when the does are present.

15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.

16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.

17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail.

18) Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.

19) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.

20) How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?

Let's face it - English is a crazy language. There is no egg in eggplant,

nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple.

English muffins weren't invented in England or French fries in France .

Sweetmeats are candies while sweetbreads, which aren't sweet, are meat.

We take English for granted. But if we explore its paradoxes, we find that

quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea pig is neither

from Guinea nor is it a pig.

If you have a bunch of odds and ends and get rid of all but one of them,

what do you call it?

In what other language do people recite at a play and play at a recital?

Ship by truck and send cargo by ship? Have noses that run and feet that smell?

How can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same,

while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites?

You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language in which your house can burn up

as it burns down, in which you fill in a form by filling it out and in which, an alarm goes off by going on.

English was invented by people, not computers, and it reflects the creativity of the human race,

which, of course, is not a race at all.

PS. - Why doesn't 'Buick' rhyme with 'quick' ?

You lovers of the English
language might enjoy this:

here is a two-letter word
that perhaps has more meanings than any other two-letter word, and that is 'UP.'

It's easy to understand UP, meaning toward the sky or at the top of the list, but when we awaken in the morning, why do we wake UP ? At a meeting, why does a topic come UP ? Why do we speak UP and why are the officers UP for election and why is it UP to the secretary to write UP a report ?

We call UP our frie nds. And we use it to brighten UP a room, polishUP the silver; we warm UP the leftovers and clean UP the kitchen. We lock UP the house and some guys fix UP the old car. At other times the little word has real special meaning. People stir UP trouble, line UP for tickets, work UP an appetite, and think UP excuses. To be dressed is one thing, but to be dressed UP is special.

And this UP is confusing: A drain must be opened UP because it is stopped UP.

We open UP a store in the morning but we close it UP at night.

We seem to be pretty mixed UP about UP! To be knowledgeable about the proper uses of UP,

look the word UP in the dictionary. In a desk-sized dictionary, it takes UP almost 1/4th of the page

and can add UP to about thirty definitions.

If you are UP to it, you might try building UP a list of the many ways UP is used.

It will take UP a lot of your time, but if you don't give UP, you may wind UP with a hundred or more.

When it threatens to rain, we say it is clouding UP . When the sun comes out we say it is clearing UP.

When it rains, it wets the earth and often messes things UP.

When it doesn't rain for awhile, things dry UP.
One could go on and on, but I'll wrap it UP for now my time is UP, so........it is time to shut UP!

So True

2011-06-06T09:55:00.003-04:00

Such as, "What must I do to be saved?" You will probably get the wrong answer at Google, unless it takes you to Bible.com., Bible Gateway.com or the like. The right answer is only in the Bible!

Try Acts 16:31, for the answer, but it's all over the Bible, especially the New Testament.

Girlie Friendship

2011-05-23T12:11:00.002-04:00

I remember when I was in my late teens how important friends were. Above is a picture of my younger daughter (middle) with her two good friends from church. This is such an important time in their lives and I'm so thankful she has had them to share all the "girlie" things with. They all want to please God in their lives and are at various stages of schooling, etc. and each comes from a different culture. But they have unity in Christ.

However, my biggest prayer for them is that one day God will give to each of them a godly and honorable husband. I'm sure that He is the One who must do that and I'm praying they'll all be patiently waiting on Him until that time comes. I pray they'll keep themselves unto Him and for that day when He provides for them as only He can. I'm sure many of you will be praying the same prayer with me for our daughters and granddaughters.

By the way, my newest grandchild due in September is another girl. For whatever His reasons, the Lord has wanted our family to raise daughters for the kingdom. :)

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T00:27:00.004-04:00

To all mothers and those who have a mother's heart. Be blessed. May Christ be honored in your life and the lives of your children through your example.

I am thankful to the Lord for His gift of children. I remember my own dear mother today who has been in heaven now for 16 years.

The End

2011-05-02T13:19:00.003-04:00

It's difficult to rejoice over the death of someone who undoubtedly has just entered a Christless eternity with all the suffering that entails, but I, along with most Americans, am thankful to God for His mercies to us for the end of this decade of tracking down this one person who has been responsible for so much horror and terror. I am proud of our country, and though I've never been a fan of our current President, I felt a sense of oneness with him last night as he delivered his speech telling us of the events of yesterday. I particularly felt immense pride when hearing about that courageous group of people who carried out this mission with success and efficiency. God bless America.

Sweeties

2011-04-27T12:34:00.005-04:00

I hope your Easter was as blessed as mine. We had a nice day at church and as a family. Here are a few of my sweeties. We're having fantastic weather right now. In the seventies to eighties. Perfect. Talk to you soon.

Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed

2011-04-20T17:34:00.004-04:00

I received this in a e-newsletter today, and wanted to share it during this Passion week. I always reflect on these beautiful words by Isaac Watts this time of year.

Topsy-Turvy

2011-04-13T10:41:00.003-04:00

In the midst of finishing up the income taxes and scrambling to get our third quarter school work in, we had to take hubby to the ER Monday afternoon whereupon they kept him overnight and took forever releasing him late yesterday. (He was feeling some discomfort in the chest for a week or so, and the doctor didn't want to play around with that. However, all tests revealed that it's not his heart, but probably a digestive issue, so we're thankful for that.) So, we hopefully also have some car issues straightened out as well and life is going on? A bit on the topsy-turvy side, but going on anyway.

Please forgive me for not checking in on all of you more often, but I'll try to get by later today. No matter what's going on in our lives, Jesus reigns.

Be Still

2011-04-09T21:00:00.002-04:00

Hope this is a blessing to all. I'm posting it on all my blogs today. Beautiful images of God's creation throughout. Have a very blessed Lord's Day tomorrow.

Installation Delay

2011-03-28T09:24:00.004-04:00

INSTALLING SPRING...
████████░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░
33% DONE. Install delayed....please wait.
Installation failed. Please try again.

(Saw this on a friend's Facebook status and couldn't resist copying. Problem is it's so true here.)

God Will Take Care of You

2011-03-19T20:52:00.004-04:00

I thought now is a good time to post this, which I once posted on Facebook. Not altogether sure of their nationality, but I do have all people in mind with this, and especially the Japanese people. Enjoy. I'm sure you'll like it.

Pray for Japan!

2011-03-15T10:15:00.001-04:00

Checking In

2011-03-11T10:40:00.004-05:00

I don't know if you feel this way or not, but when I hear about a horrible disaster in another part of the world it usually seems funny that our lives go on as usual. Coming home today from some ordinary daily life things, I said to my daughter "Here we are going on with life as always and somewhere on this earth people are suffering from the effects of something that has completely devastated their entire well-being."

Well, I came to check in after my break and Japan, Hawaii, and those in the Pacific are fresh on my mind. I'm sure the same is true of you. Top of our prayer list for sure.

I am doing my income taxes again (as always this time of year), working on finishing up homeschool here in our house and prepare for graduation, doing little writing projects, looking at movies and dvds/videos of my new favorite TV program which I wrote about a couple of entries ago (love it), enjoying the grandchildren, teaching Sunday school, etc. etc. Nothing new. Somehow it's not that important anyway.

I notice quite a few of my blogging friends aren't posting as much either. I'm sure we'll all do it when we can and will all visit each other as time and circumstances allow.

Love you all. God bless.

Nearer My God to Thee

2011-02-25T20:41:00.002-05:00

Taking a quick break from my two weak break to post this. Couldn't resist.

Little Bean

2011-02-23T21:20:00.003-05:00

Can you see the little bean there? That's our third grandchild. Isn't he/she cute?

Listen, I'm going to be taking a couple weeks break. I will probably be keeping up posts for my other blogs which all have a specific purpose, but I'll break from the personal goings on unless there is something I'm just itching to say.

Be by to visit here and there. See you in a couple of weeks, Lord willing!

Arthur and Gwen

2011-02-14T12:29:00.011-05:00

I can't believe myself. I am not one who likes fantasy at all as a choice for reading or entertainment, but for some strange reason, I've been enjoying the BBC TV Merlin series dvd's given to Neesie by a friend. At first, I just sat on the couch doing something else while it was on, but then found myself getting interested in the stories. I always appreciate quality acting and good story development and I saw that first, even though there were strange looking creatures and all that crazy stuff which I usually hate. The long and short of it is, I'm finding it very engaging.

This series is a very loose adaptation of the King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table legend, which I never got into. In many ways, they're not sticking to the legend, which I could care less about. I don't want to go on too much about it, but do want to say what I like best. That is, even as old as I am, I still like fairy tales. I still like to dream a little about such things. And this series very much has a fairy tale woven in.

The time setting is before Arthur became king. He's crown prince and a brave warrior, etc. etc. There is this servant girl named Guinevere. Well, cutting out a lot of detail on the reasons why, in Season 2, Episode 2, the prince goes undercover, hiding out in the home of the servant girl for a couple of days. (He already knew her well, by the way.) She lives alone and was helping out in the particular situation. Well, this and that happened, she had to serve him, of course, and there was much that was amusing, but there was a point at which the young lady became so irritated with her guest that she "boiled over" and told him, in no uncertain terms, a few things about himself. She also told him of the importance of humility in a king, if he's to be a good one. The best part is that he listened. You could tell he did. You could also tell throughout the entire episode that this young future king was falling in love with this servant girl. Oh my. His father would have a heart attack if he knew that.

But here is what I really liked. This was the perfect setting for, at the very least, innuendoes about some sort of "hanky-panky" between the two. There was not the least hint of that. Somehow, in this day and age, they kept it clean. Even when Arthur assumed the only bed was his, not even considering that she would only have one, the focus was on his thinking only of self. Nothing else.

On this day on which romantic love is celebrated, I was thinking about this, and I'm glad the focus was on love, not on, well you know. A later episode confirmed that what had developed between the two of them was true love. I don't know what they'll do in the future with these lovers; I suppose I should expect that passion is coming. In the legend she is the queen (but she had never been a servant). There are many indications it may end up that way here, but the prince and maid will surely have to go through a lot for that to happen! It would be nice if they would keep the focus on love and that it would indeed lead to marriage. That's a lot to expect these days. (No spoilers if you know future happenings!)

Ladies, enjoy and be thankful for your prince today, if you have one. Mine has gotten gray and quite thick around the middle, but he's still my prince! And remember, prince or no prince, God's love is best.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY. Their first kiss near the end of the episode: (Many young ladies wait until marriage for that first kiss and that's so nice when that happens! May the Lord lead each girl to do what is best and right in her situation.)

Epitaph

2011-02-09T16:52:00.007-05:00

An epitaph written in a cemetery in England:

Remember man, as you walk by,
As you are now, so once was I,
As I am now, so shall you be,
Remember this and follow me.

To which someone replied by writing on the tombstone:

To follow you I'll not consent,
Until I know which way you went.

Wow. I found this in humorous stories at GatewayToJesus.com, but I hope it makes you think. Do you know where you will be when you leave this world? Do you know the one way to God? Do you know what is awaiting if you go the other way? In the Bible you'll see that the only way to spend an eternity with God is by repenting of your sins and turning to Jesus, the only Savior. And if you die without Him, it will be to a Christless eternity in a horrible place called hell.

Which way will you be going? Actually, this is not a laughing matter.

Is it Spring Yet?

2011-02-02T00:10:00.001-05:00

I don't care what he claims when he makes his prediction today, spring is just around the corner. I think even I'll be glad when it comes.

Today we were spared. A storm came through and the second half is coming through during the night (early hours of Feb.2), but they say it will be hard rains with some freezing rains. Many of you other folks got lots of snow, I hear. Hope you're enjoying it; we've had our share. Somehow the Lord will see us all through.

I made turkey soup today and it really hit the spot. I saved the bones from Thanksgiving and Christmas, so I had lots of them. I simmer them for three to four hours in 10 to 12 cups water, with lots of celery and a little onion. I throw in a couple of bay leaves and peppercorns. Smells great cooking. Then I take out the bones (takes forever), bay leaves, and try to find the peppercorns (always miss a couple which my daughter Neesie always gets in her bowl as she hates pepper the most), after which I add mixed veggies and noodles. I prefer noodles but some folks like potatoes I hear. It's best to make the broth the day before so you can skim off the fat, but I never seem to get around to doing it. I can't wait once I have the broth. It felt so good going down and was most tasty, I must say. I've had a scratchy throat and chills much of the day, but feel much better after eating that soup! Also, I've been overdosing on liquids all day. I think it's working!

With all this bitter cold and snow, my little birdies outside are giving my feeding station quite a workout. A hawk has been hanging around and I keep hoping he won't get one of my patrons, but I guess it's just a matter of time. Well, hawks have to eat too, as they say. I just don't want to see it.

Well, that's all that I have to say for today. Blessings to you all. Stay warm. We'll get through this.

Lovely Weather

2011-01-28T20:38:00.006-05:00

It's been a while since I posted a picture of my two girlies, so here it is. I think they're the only ones in the family who are enjoying this weather. It's been unbelievable. The photo above was a couple of weeks ago. We have had much more snow since then.

I think I better remind myself of some reasons why I dislike summer. I don't want to forget it while we're going through this particularly difficult winter. . .

Mosquitoes
Sticky humidity
Mosquitoes
Thunderstorms
Mosquitoes
heat
Mosquitoes

Well. Now I feel better. I'll not start pining away for July.

And about the granddaughters. I just saw the sweetest prayer at a friend's blog. Go here to read Karen's prayer, because I echo the sentiments.

A Secret Work

2011-01-22T16:57:00.004-05:00

My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Psalm 139:15

" 'My substance was not hid from thee.' The substantial part of my being was before thine all-seeing eye; the bones which make my frame were put together by thine hand. The essential materials of my being before they were arranged were all within the range of thine eye. I was hidden from all human knowledge, but not from thee: thou hast ever been intimately acquainted with me. 'When I was made in secret.' Most chastely and beautifully is here described the formation of our being before the time of our birth. A great artist will often labour alone in his studio, and not suffer his work to be seen until it is finished; even so did the Lord fashion us where no eye beheld us, and the veil was not lifted till every member was complete . . . 'And curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.' 'Embroidered with great skill,' is an accurate poetical description of the creation of veins, sinews, muscles, nerves, etc. What tapestry can equal the human fabric? . . ." ~ Charles H. Spurgeon, from The Treasury of David

How dare we dispense with this marvelous work of God as if it were nothing but a "choice" belonging to us, the creatures? How dare we take it upon ourselves to even think we can make a determination whether this secret work of the Creator should or should not live? I wonder what Mr. Spurgeon would have thought if what would be happening in this day had been foretold? If God withholds judgment on our nation, it is purely a display of His long suffering and mercy!

Fellow saints, let's continue to pray that in the face of mercy, the time will soon come that this darkness prevailing over us will begin to be lifted. Let's do all we can to see that it happens, even if what we do seems small compared to the big picture. Who knows how even our littlest efforts can be used by the great Artist, who certainly recoils at seeing His works destroyed.

(Posting on both my personal and devotional blogs to recognize Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, 2011.)

Today, Not Yesterday

2011-01-20T17:32:00.005-05:00

I have no yesterdays,
Time took them away;
Tomorrow may not be--
But I have today.

~ Pearl Yeadon McGinnis

What a reminder. I needed this, and I think perhaps many of you do too. Don't you pray that our Lord will help us to use today wisely, while laying aside any regrets about the yesterdays? Sometimes I reflect on how hungrily time is eating up my yesterdays, but that's not the right approach. In keeping with the apostle Paul, I hope you and I "forget those things which are behind, and reach forth unto those things which are before," continuing to "press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 3:13-14)

I'm hanging in there, trying to press on. Hope you are too, knowing the Lord will take care of tomorrow. I'm working on writing projects, and when I do, you understand that blogging suffers. Did you know I have four blogs? Well, I do. Two are connected with the home business, one of those is for children, and I stubbornly refuse to drop any of them, as they are all much enjoyed, each in a different way.

The above quote was borrowed from a delightful book by Emilie Barnes, entitled 15 Minutes with God for Grandma. You grandmothers might think about picking up a copy. The meditations Mrs. Barnes offers are short and sweet, plus she seems to be a kindred spirit in her love for quotes. A couple of them were just perfect thoughts for two blogs today, and I'll probably find more for the future. Some of you who are quotes lovers would appreciate that as well. I do recommend the book; it's a nice companion to a cup of tea or coffee.

I have a very old click art collection that has loads of flower graphics that are, of course, beautiful. What do you think of this lovely flower? Aren't flowers a wonderful gift from our kind Lord? Enjoy this one and have a blessed day. I hope to do some visiting to see some of you very soon.

Amazon Gift Card Deal

2011-01-19T11:33:00.006-05:00

I've emailed some of you, but in case you didn't get one from me, there is a really nice deal going on at this site where you can get a $20 Amazon gift card for half price. Most of us can use an Amazon card in some way, and if you tell three others who use the link you give them, you could get it for free. Please use the link provided here in this post to maybe help me out and then try telling others on your blog or through email so that perhaps you could benefit also. I believe time is of the essence so it's best not to tarry! Thanks.

End of Ozzie and Harriet

2011-01-12T16:31:00.008-05:00

Well the last of the Nelsons died today. My daughter and I continue to be fans of the Ozzie & Harriet show and have lots of the episodes here on dvd. We were sorry to hear that David Nelson, the older brother, passed away today at the age of 74. His younger brother Ricky died in a plane crash in 1985; his dad Ozzie was the first to go in 1975; and mom Harriet passed away in 1994. Even though criticized by some to be a family which was unrealistic, we still thoroughly enjoy the episodes which always make us chuckle at the normal everyday situations and conversations. I don't really know why we like it so much, but apparently lots of folks did back then as the show ran for 14 years from 1952 to 1966. It would never make it today, would it?

As I read somewhere, one more person from a "gentler, kinder past" has gone on. Well, thank the Lord for dvds and videos.

Unsearchable Riches of Christ

2011-01-08T15:43:00.004-05:00

"The unsearchable riches of Christ." Eph 3:8

NEVER forget that Jesus is our Brother, and that He has devoted all His riches to us, so that the riches of Jesus are the Christian's fortune. "Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for our sakes He became poor, that we through His poverty might be rich." He employed all He possessed for our redemption, sanctification, and salvation; and now, at the right hand of the Majesty on high, He giveth liberally, and upbraideth not. He has riches of grace, riches of mercy, and riches of glory. The residue of the Spirit is with Him. He has promised largely; He has proved His readiness to bestow, in the most wonderful way; let us therefore expect great things from Him, for He has unsearchable riches. O believer, look not at thy poverty, at thy wants, or thy circumstances, but look at Jesus; all things are under His feet, all blessings are at His disposal, and His heart is set upon thee to do thee good! He will supply all thy needs while on earth, and afterwards receive thee to glory. My soul, thy Jesus has all thou needest: therefore look to Him, and Him alone!

Possessing Christ, I all possess,
Strength, wisdom, sanctifying grace,
And righteousness complete:
Bold, in His name, I dare draw nigh,
Before the Ruler of the sky,
And all His justice meet.

(Shared thanks to a recent email from Johnny Farese.)

Hi Friends. I am well, though I'm neglecting this particular blog these days. As usual my plate is full, in more ways than one. I am rich because if I possess Christ, I have all things. Unsearchable riches. This is one of my favorite themes of the gospel. Are you rich? If you don't have the Lord Jesus as your Savior, you are poor indeed. But you don't have to be.

Just wanted to share that. Be blessed all.

God Will Take Care of You

2011-01-01T20:57:00.009-05:00

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10

Well, well, well. So already we come to a new year. How on earth did 2010 get by us so fast? This will be my first hymn for the year, and yesterday I thought of this one and decided it was perfect to reflect my thoughts for the coming days, weeks, and months. As you know, so many people close to me lost their spouses this past year. I wrote a post about the five widows, but there was also a dear younger woman who I had the pleasure of knowing pretty well who lost her battle with breast cancer this past year. Actually, her home going was on October 1st, the first day of breast cancer awareness month. So I've been thinking much about her husband Ed and her two children this past Christmas season.

This hymn, then, is for all of the above mentioned dear ones and for you and me as well. No matter what 2011 has in store, no matter how difficult a circumstance comes our way, we can be assured that our God will indeed take care of us. His care will sometimes take unusual twists and turns, but He has made a multitude of promises to us in His Word, and we well know that He keeps all of His promises.

Bless all of you dear friends who stop by and even if you've never been here before, I wish you the most blessed 2011.

Be not dismayed whate’er betide,
God will take care of you;
Beneath His wings of love abide,
God will take care of you.

Through days of toil when heart doth fail,
God will take care of you;
When dangers fierce your path assail,
God will take care of you.

All you may need He will provide,
God will take care of you;
Nothing you ask will be denied,
God will take care of you.

No matter what may be the test,
God will take care of you;
Lean, weary one, upon His breast,
God will take care of you.

Refrain
God will take care of you,
Through every day, over all the way;
He will take care of you,
God will take care of you.

~ Civilla D. Martin

Read and Share Bible

2010-12-28T20:54:00.003-05:00

My friend Susan is giving away a nice item for children. It's a Read and Share Bible which looks quite interesting. I'm going on over to enter and encourage you to do so also. This would be great for your grandchildren if you have no small ones of your own. And if you have no children at all, what a nice gift this would be for a niece or nephew. Come on over with me!

Extra Special Christmas Gift

2010-12-22T06:52:00.001-05:00

Even though the Lord Jesus Himself is the most special gift that has ever been given to us, His children, He chose in His providential goodness to give our family an extra special gift during the Christmas season of 1992. She was born on December 22nd of that year and came to us all wrapped in pink and white on December 26th. She stole our hearts right away. . . can't you see why?

So, every year on this date, in the midst of all the seasonal merriment, we celebrate this special Christmas gift. This year's celebration is a significant one, however. Today is the eighteenth one and you know what that means. Not only are we thankful that the Lord has allowed us to share this day with Neesie as she reaches this milestone, but we're able to rejoice that God has seen fit to draw her to Himself and that as she reaches young adulthood she continues to look to Him to guide and direct her life. We know He will.

Neesie captured the heart of her dad and mom and big sister on that day after Christmas eighteen years ago and continues to do so. Now added to the number of those who love her dearly are a brother-in-law and two doting nieces. And I can honestly say there are quite a few others among family and friends who consider her a truly special gift.

Somewhere in her childhood we began to recite Psalm 121 to her at bedtime, and that tradition continues to this day. Needless to say, that passage is her life verse(s) and we put its reference on every birthday cake and card. So as I say "Happy Birthday, dear Neesie", I say it with a prayer that the reality of these words in the psalm will keep you looking upward all the days allotted to you. We love you very much.

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord which made heaven and earth. . .The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore. From Psalm 121

Just a Coating

2010-12-16T23:39:00.000-05:00

See this picture? Just a little bit of snow, right? No problem, right? No, you're wrong. It brought a TON of problems to this area for the rush hour! I know all you folks who are counting the snow in feet are probably chuckling at our little half inch. Well let me tell you: It started snowing late in the afternoon with a rather wet, not powdery, kind of snow which immediately froze on the very cold surface due to the low temps of the past few days. This combination turned out to be murderous for the commuters coming home from work, AND my poor husband trying to get to Neesie's place of work to pick her up. He left a half hour early and was at least a half hour late getting her. A long story, but she and he and I were back and forth on the phone his entire ride. THEN, they had to come home, which took twice the normal time. In some instances, it was taking people an hour to go one mile. Sometimes, going 15 miles per hour was too fast. Five to ten mph was safest.

Unbelievable! The road crews hadn't prepared for this unexpected turn of events, I guess. If it had started earlier in the day as forecast perhaps it wouldn't have frozen so solid, or if it had snowed more than a coating perhaps there would have been some "crunch" for the tire wheels, but wow, this was unreal.

Well, thanks to the Lord, my folks made it safely home without an accident. Unfortunately, there were many who did not make out so well.

So, guys, I think I'd rather have your two or three feet. No I don't mean that.

Just reporting in.

"Silver" Church Anniversary

2010-12-11T13:19:00.008-05:00

"For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." Matthew 18:20

In September of 1983 my husband and I and our three year old daughter gathered with three other couples and their children for a picnic. Now having a picnic with other families is not an unusual occurrence by any means, but this meeting together was special in nature. You see, this group came together that day to discuss the possibility of establishing a church in our area. We were all like-minded in our theology and in what we believed concerning what God required of His Church in its worship. For a year we met as a Bible Study, with the help and covering of an established congregation which "mothered" us and with continued growth in our number during that year. Then, in September 1984, we had our first worship service, meeting for another year as a fellowship. By God's mercies, in December of 1985 we constituted as an official church body and ordained our pastor, who remains to this day.

Tomorrow, we are having a celebration of our 25th anniversary as a body of believers. We started out in a school, have at times used borrowed facilities graciously lent to us by other congregations, and for the past eighteen years worshipped in a building of our own. The faces of the various people meeting at one time or another have changed over the years. There have been glorious days and painful days. We have been a people with feet of clay, as is the case with every single child of God in every single congregation on the face of the earth. After all, aren't we all sinners in need of daily forgiveness? We have pressed on, however, seeking to serve our Lord and doing our best to honor Him.

But this is not a post about us; it's about the faithfulness of the Lord Jesus Himself who has been kind enough to allow us to see this anniversary, still proclaiming His Person and Work. It's most of all an expression of my gratefulness to a Savior who has promised to meet with His people at each and every gathering in His Name on this earth, wherever that gathering may be and even if they're only two or three of them.

These are the words of my dear Bishop Ryle on Matthew 18:20:

"There is comfort in these words for all who love to meet together for religious purposes. At every assembly for public worship, at every gathering for prayer and praise, at every missionary meeting, at every Bible reading, the King of kings is present, Christ Himself attends. We may be often disheartened by the small number who are present on such occasions, compared with the number of those who meet for worldly ends; we may sometimes find it hard to bear the taunts and ridicule of an illnatured world, which cries like the enemy of old, "What do these feeble people?" (Nehem. iv.2) But we have no reason for despondency: we may boldly fall back on these words of Jesus. At all such meetings we have the company of Christ Himself." ~ J.C. Ryle, Expository Thoughts on Matthew.

Thank you, dear Lord Jesus, for your faithfulness to us these past twenty-five plus years. Help us to "persevere and not be ashamed," as Mr. Ryle further exhorts.

Our church website is here. Also the above picture is a drawing of our building.

Unusual Santas

2010-12-09T13:42:00.005-05:00

Is it just me or do people have too much time on their hands these days? And I'm not just talking about us Americans. This event, whatever it was, took place in South Korea. I don't know...maybe they're trying to get their minds off the problems they're having coming from up north. Seems to me they better be concentrating on the folks from the "northern kingdom" as there is nothing funny about them.

Also, as cute as these little penguins may be, and as much as I like animals, I am really bothered by the waste of money that we see going on here and abroad on foolishness when there is so much worldwide hunger. Sorry, but that's my two cents for whatever it's worth. Tell me if I'm wrong--I don't mind.

Tranquility in Sorrow

2010-12-03T19:41:00.006-05:00

Between now and this past August, five friends of mine have lost their husbands. These are all ladies whom I have been friends with for many years, and in each instance, the marriage was a solid and long lasting one. Each was a wonderful testimony of the beauty of marriage, and now each of these dear ones will face the holidays for the first time as widows. Today I went to a church to get a good tight hug from the latest widow, shortly before she went to bury her companion of 46 years. I remember going through the whole saga of her dating him and then their marriage those many years ago. . .and now our tears mingling at such a time as this.

I just wanted to remember them now for a few minutes and ask that you'd please take a moment to say a prayer for Carol, Carole, Carolyn, Joan, and Joyce during this first Christmas season without their husbands. God has blessed each of them with children and grandchildren, so we can be thankful for that.

There is something I see in each of these ladies; it's something you see when the years have been many and the relationship has been harmonious and loving. I see tranquility in their sorrow.

Little Decorators

2010-11-29T20:26:00.003-05:00

Well, we had the tree sitting in the living room without decorations when my four and two year old granddaughters came over. So, they started it for me. Doesn't it look beautiful?

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T16:30:00.002-05:00

From our house to yours....many blessing for this Thanksgiving season. We have a great God, a wonderful Savior, a marvelous salvation, and a beautiful mansion in glory awaiting us. Why shouldn't we be thankful?

Have a safe and enjoyable holiday tomorrow and don't eat too much!!

White Lie Church Cake

2010-11-22T13:16:00.006-05:00

This story was too good for me to pass up passing on to you all. Just be sure not to read ahead to the end and I have no doubt you'll appreciate it.

Have you ever told a white lie? You are going to love this --especially all of the ladies who bake for church events.

Alice Grayson was to bake a cake for the Baptist Church ladies' group bake sale in Tuscaloosa, but she forgot to do it until the last minute.

She remembered it the morning of the bake sale and after rummaging through cabinets she found a dusty old Angel food cake mix in the back of her kitchen cabinet and quickly made it while drying her hair and getting dressed, while helping her son Bryan pack up for Scout camp.

But when Alice took the cake from the oven the center had dropped flat and the cake was horribly disfigured. She said, "Oh dear, there's no time to bake another cake." This cake was so important to Alice because she did so want to fit in at her new church, and in her new community of new friends. So, being inventive and not wanting anyone to think she was not the perfect woman able to handle all things at all times or that, God forbid, she not participate in her church's bazaar, she looked around the house for something to build up the center of the cake.

Alice found it in the bathroom -- a roll of toilet paper. She plunked it in and then covered it with icing. Not only did the finished product look beautiful, it looked perfect! Before she left the house to drop the cake by the church and head off for work, Alice woke her daughter Amanda and gave her some money and specific instructions to be at the bake sale the minute it opened at 9:30, and to buy that cake and bring it home.

When the daughter arrived at the sale, she found that the attractive perfect cake had already been sold. Amanda grabbed her cell phone and called her Mom. Alice was horrified...she was beside herself. Everyone would know ... what would she do, she would be ridiculed. She would have to move or kill herself! All night Alice lay awake in bed thinking about people pointing their fingers at her and talking, What would they think?
"Oh, my goodness; what can I do?" she wailed! She would be ostracized, talked about behind her back.

The next day, Alice promised herself that she would try not to think about the cake and she would attend a fancy luncheon/bridal shower at the home of a friend of a friend and try to have a good time. Alice did not really want to attend because the hostess was a snob who more than once had looked down her nose at the fact that Alice was a single parent and not from the founding families of Tuscaloosa, but having already RSVP she could not think of a believable excuse to stay home.

The meal was elegant, the company was definitely upper crust old South.... and to Alice's horror the CAKE in question was presented for dessert. Alice felt the blood drain from her body when she saw the cake, she started to get out of her chair to rush into the kitchen to tell her hostess all about it, but before she could get to her feet, the Mayor's wife said, "What a beautiful cake!"

Alice who was still stunned and trying to formulate what words she would use to explain the situation, sat back in her chair when she heard the hostess (who was a prominent church member) say, "Thank you, I baked it myself."

Alice smiled and thought to herself "THERE IS A GOD!!!!!!!

*I found this story at Christian Life Stories and thank them for sharing it.*

A Wonderful Savior

2010-11-20T20:08:00.003-05:00

Hallelujah. (And my darling sweet cardinal is an added treat.)

Don't Ask . . .

2010-11-18T10:58:00.002-05:00

. . .because I don't know. However, I felt compelled to post it. lol

Thy Law, My Delight

2010-11-10T10:29:00.014-05:00

Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction. I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me. Psalm 119:92-93

I got the idea for this WFW post from a blog post I just read yesterday. I have this VOM magazine and the cover picture touched me as well. Look at her hands and look at the Bible they are holding. This lady has no doubt undergone some type of persecution and her Bible has been burned, as you can see. But the persecutors have not destroyed God's Word nor have they incinerated this woman's love for it. Indeed, no doubt the spark of affection that the child of God has for His precious Word only is inflamed and burns all the brighter under the face of affliction.

As the psalmist says, the precepts of our Lord do quicken. That means they "keep us alive." Amen and amen.

More Word Filled Wednesday posts can be found at the Internet Cafe.

Fall Treats

2010-11-03T19:37:00.002-04:00

This is my FAVORITE fall treat. LOVE them! I can't think of anything I'd rather have on a blistery November evening, while sitting on the couch with a throw across the lap. The perfect companion. At least there is some nutrition, right? Especially with the nuts.;)

What's your favorite tasty treat for this time of year?

Thomas Sowell Quotes

2010-11-02T12:09:00.005-04:00

It's Election Day once again in America and I, among many others across this nation, have gone and cast my votes. There were only three offices up for election in our area, but of course one of them was extremely important. That would be the vote I cast for my congressman. Each and every one of us has that crucial vote this year. Please do cast that vote for your representative in Congress as it's been a while since it's been as important.

Thomas Sowell is a well known conservative economist and political commentator, among other things, and is a favorite of mine. This man really has his head on straight. I like him so much that I wish he were a Christian, though I don't think he professes to be. Wouldn't it be even more wonderful if the Lord would bring salvation to him? He'd really be dynamite then! On Facebook, I posted something he said in one of his latest articles and then happened upon some more quotes. In honor of this critical time in the life of our country, particularly for Election Day this year, I thought I'd post some of these quotes and let Mr. Sowell speak to us as Americans at this critical time in our history.

"The most basic question is not what is best, but who shall decide what is best. "

"The first lesson of economics is scarcity: there is never enough of anything to fully satisfy all those who want it. The first lesson of politics is to disregard the first lesson of economics. "

"What is ominous is the ease with which some people go from saying that they don't like something to saying that the government should forbid it. When you go down that road, don't expect freedom to survive very long. "

"Elections should be held on April 16th- the day after we pay our income taxes. That is one of the few things that might discourage politicians from being big spenders. "

"Freedom has cost too much blood and agony to be relinquished at the cheap price of rhetoric. " [My favorite]

"If the battle for civilization comes down to the wimps versus the barbarians, the barbarians are going to win. "

"If you are not prepared to use force to defend civilization, then be prepared to accept barbarism. "

"It is hard to imagine a more stupid or more dangerous way of making decisions than by putting those decisions in the hands of people who pay no price for being wrong. "

"Liberalism is totalitarianism with a human face. " "

Socialism in general has a record of failure so blatant that only an intellectual could ignore or evade ."

Mr Sowell focuses most of his attention on economics and on that we differ. I believe that the biggest problem in America is a moral one. I am against liberalism and socialism, yes, but more than that, humanism and secularism are the real issues. Our country desperately needs the Lord.

Be Still

2010-10-25T21:07:00.003-04:00

Dedicated to a dear friend of mine whose husband of 52 years has just passed on to glory. To my dear sister, as you told your dear one at his bedside, this is only temporary. You'll see him again over there. Be still and know that in every change our God faithful will remain, even though through thorny ways. Love you, dear sis. . . you have been so special to me over the years.

Rescued

2010-10-13T10:27:00.009-04:00

He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my foot upon a rock, and established my goings. Psalm 40:2

I have always loved this verse and what it means in the life of any believer. What is happening right now in Chile cannot but help make us think of this blessed truth.

This ongoing rescue of the miners is amazing. It is often unbelievable what man can accomplish when he sets his mind to it. What is sad is that often he (man) does not really understand (even though he make give a token acknowledgment) that he can do absolutely nothing apart from what almighty God allows. God is sovereign. He allowed this trapping of the miners and it's He that is orchestrating this whole rescue. We may not know fully what His purposes are in all of this, but He has them and all glory goes to Him.

I understand that when the oldest of the miners was taken out of the capsule that the first thing he did was get down on his knees in thanksgiving to God. Of course, we don't know what the true state of his soul is, but this miner surely did what each and every one of them should be doing. We can keep praying that as they are being rescued out of the pit, the same thing will some day be true in the spiritual realm.

Only Jesus saves from the horrible pit of sin. May He be glorified!!

Visit the Internet Cafe for more word filled Wednesday posts.

Shana's Turn!

2010-10-09T22:17:00.004-04:00

Now it's birthday time for Shana. As of tomorrow, our little Shae-Shae will be all of two years old! Do you remember when I posted about her birth? How can that possibly be two years ago?! Well, it has been and she is no longer a little baby. That doesn't mean Nanna can't still hold her on the lap and cuddle and give lots of kisses and hugs. She'll never get too old for THAT as far as I'm concerned.

Many people love little Shae. Of course, her mommy and daddy do; her big sister REALLY does, her Auntie Nee does too, and I could go on and on. But need I say, that she has a Nanna and Poppop who love her and are so thankful to the Lord for her and all the happiness she brings to all of us with her winsome little ways.

God bless you, sweet Shana-Bana. And may you come to love HIM even while you're young. We'll keep praying for you and your big sister.

A No-No

2010-10-07T10:58:00.006-04:00

Unbelievable. The Phillies kick off the playoff season with a No-Hitter! In a no-hitter, for those of you who don't know (or care), the star of the show is always the pitcher and credit goes to him, but the catcher is the next biggest part of the whole thing. Above you see Roy Halliday, who made history by throwing only the second playoff no-hitter in the history of Major League Baseball (and his second this season), but also you see his catcher, Carlos Ruiz, a/k/a "Chooch," who also happens to be my favorite player. And then we must remember, the other seven players who fielded all the plays should get a lot of credit also.

Such excitement in our area last night and this morning! All over the radio and TV it's being talked about. Nice to have something that's absolutely of no significance to life to take our minds off of the many serious things that are going on in our world.

I'm quite a fan of the Phils, but Jesus still reigns whether they win it all or not. Needed to remind myself of that. ;)

Natural Remedies

2010-10-04T13:57:00.010-04:00

Hi there. Long time no talk to. How's the weather there? It's cold, damp, and shivery here, especially nice weather to be home baking bread and drinking tea. Well, I'm doing neither, but will soon be going out to run some errands rather than stay in and be cozy. It's fall, which is the favorite season for me, but unfortunately, cold and flu season has started and we're already seeing that first hand in our family and among the people from church.

Now don't make fun of me, but when my daughters were young, they got lots of colds and flu illnesses with high temps. Oh, how I hated those days. Once, when Bev was five or six she got a really scary virus, which made her lethargic and with which she was running a particularly high fever. Somewhere in an old beaten up medical book which we had rescued from my husband's family home we read that putting onions and garlic in the sickroom would cause the fever to break. So we said why not try it, and try it we did and her fever broke that night, never to return. We've tried it on occasions since then and it just seems to so happen that fevers aren't quite as bad or last as long with garlic or onion in the room, even though not the most pleasant aroma to greet you when you enter.

Now, that has been of course poo-pooed as an old wives' tale, etc. etc. by the moderns of today but I say, what's it hurt? So last year with all the swine flu scary talk I kept an onion in Neesie's room all winter in a pretty little dish. When one would shrivel up, I would replace it. I figured it wasn't hurting anything and she just lived with it as she has had to do with many of her mom's weird ideas. Now I am not saying I necessarily believe all that, but as I said, I felt it wouldn't hurt anything. I do know that eating a few cloves of garlic when you have lots of chest congestion, will clear things out nicely if you don't mind what goes along with it. :)

And I do feel that the Lord can use whatever He wants to heal us and however He wants, so why not an onion or garlic? After all, He gives "herb for the service of man" as it says in Psalm 104:14.

With all that said, my purpose for this post is to pass along a link to an article on the Old Farmer's Almanac website which has lot of suggestions for natural remedies to help you when you get a cold. Please note fact number 4. When you get to the OFA site, also check out the link to the article on cold and flu prevention. I already practice a lot of the suggestions in that one and I really do believe doing so makes a big difference. So, read it all here and take or leave whatever you want from it. Oh, I just saw a link to cough remedies there too! Have a blessed day.

Fairest Lord Jesus

2010-09-24T19:47:00.002-04:00

Giving honor and praise to our Beautiful Savior.

Sneaky Nutrition - Sweet Potato Pie

2010-09-14T08:30:00.000-04:00

What wonderful weather we've been enjoying for the past few days! I even was thankful for the rainy day yesterday because of the drought watch in our area. Ahh, days of low humidity and temps in the mid to upper seventies. My favorite kind of days. And best of all, thoughts of the coming of fall. Summer stickiness leaving, limited days for mosquitoes, and the gentle and cool breezes flowing through the open doors and windows of our home. These are the days I love best.

Now comes the the time for baking the good stuff. Love, love, LOVE fall baking, especially with apples and pumpkin. And NOW sweet potatoes come into season, even though I eat them all year long. Do you eat them in your house? Does your family like them? Do you have ANY idea how nutritious they are? I was thinking this morning that it has been AGES since I've done a Sneaky Nutrition post, so it's high time that we have one.

Believe it or not, though, this sneaky post recipe is sweet and tasty. As always, UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOUR FAMILY BE TOLD THAT ANY OF THESE INGREDIENTS ARE GOOD FOR THEM. Okay, so the sugar and butter (and milk fat) make this post suspect to say the least, but at least while you're attacking the arteries and vital organs, you're serving up Vitamin A, C, & D, carotenoids, potassium, fiber, and calcium. Doesn't that make you feel a little less guilty? And if you want to sacrifice taste to offset the bad stuff, try it with canola oil in place of the butter and non-fat canned milk. I've never done that, but it may be worth a try. Now, we won't talk about the crust, but you could always make it without it and call it a sweet potato casserole. I have a crust recipe with oil which may be worth trying and may sometimes try using whole wheat flour some day, we'll see.

So here goes a favorite from my culture. Even though I like pumpkin pie a lot, for us there is nothing that can top sweet potato pie. No holiday celebration would be complete without it. And in all seriousness, you would be better off serving this powerhouse vegetable just as it is, baked in the skin and like us, with a glob of applesauce for extra moisture instead of butter. Oh, and by the way, our family uses yams instead of actual sweet potatoes. They are usually richer in flavor and more moist and colorful.

SWEET POTATO PIE

2 pounds yams
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, softened
1-1/2 cups sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 tsp. mace (opt.)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons lemon extract
1 cup evaporated milk
1/2 cup water
4 large eggs

1. Place yams in boiling water. Lower heat and cook until done. Drain and peel. Mash yams thoroughly. Add butter, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and mace. Stir well.

2. Add vanilla and lemon extract, milk and water. Stir well.

3. Beat eggs until fluffy and pour into potato mixture. Stir well.

4. Pour into two unbaked pastry shells. Place in preheated 375 F. oven and bake for ten minutes. Reduce heat to 325F and cook until center of pies are firm, about 30 min.

On a cool day, this is a wonderful aroma to have in your house. It's one of those smells that take me back to childhood. And really, there is nutrition.

No Words Needed

2010-09-07T11:36:00.002-04:00

"No Words Needed" is the title of an email some friends forwarded to me and this is the picture.

Four Years Old!

2010-09-04T00:08:00.006-04:00

When I started blogging in July of 2006, in every post that I wrote in those days she was centric. You see, at that time she was still in the womb and I was about to become a grandmother for the first time. Those of you who have been there know what it's like.

She was born on Labor Day of that year. I saw her just a few minutes after her birth, lying on her mama's belly with her eyes wide open and fixed on her mama's face. I was right outside the curtain when she came out and heard her first cries, a moment I'll never forget.

The baby days and toddler days are over for her and she's now a little girl. A precious little girl who is loved more and more (if that is possible) by her PopPop and Nanna each passing year. She is growing more endearing and delightful each and every day.

We love you very much, Selena. Happy Birthday, four year old!

So Refreshing

2010-08-27T14:08:00.005-04:00

If I could place an order for beautiful weather, today's would be exactly what I would choose. We've had the hottest summer ever!!! This is so refreshing. Seventies, low humidity and a wonderful breeze. Thank you, Lord. "He restoreth my Soul."

My dear birdie friends are so happy outside and it's so nice to have the windows open so that I can hear them.

How is it with you, dear ones? Please forgive your neglectful friend. I promise that I haven't deserted you. Blessings to you all.

Precious Suffering Children

2010-08-23T11:23:00.004-04:00

I guess this cured me from being down in the dumps about my sore toe. This is not particularly pleasant viewing, but one of the good things about modern technology is that it can often be used to put us right there on the scene of the sufferings and sorrows being lived out by people far away. Personally, I think we who live in such a pleasure and entertainment based society need to be put there more often. Can you add these little children, victims of the Pakistani floods, to your prayer list?

And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul. . . Isa. 58:10a

Pit to Prison to Power

2010-08-14T18:47:00.006-04:00

And who might that be? You guessed it! Joseph of the book of Genesis. I just told you about our trip to the Sight and Sound production of this story and now I wanted to let you know we just completed our week long VBS on the same story. It was quite a blessing. The really good thing about it is that the number of children who attended from the community far outweighed the number of children who came from church families. Pray that the Lord will use our efforts to His glory in the lives of these children and their parents.

We took lots of pictures, but I'm sharing a couple which I took that included my granddaughters. The top one is of Selena's class during their craft time on Friday. You can see her in the purple sun visor (which she had just decorated) intent on getting the little beads onto the pipe cleaner. Shana is too young to attend, but one of the ladies at church who had nursery duty gave her little bits of time to work on "projects" of her own. Shana was pretty happy, especially since Mrs. H. has always been a favorite of hers.

We all enjoyed it but are tired and thankful that it's over. Btw, I was the registrar for the first time. I really liked doing that and walking around being a utility person. Good exercise which was sorely needed!

Joseph

2010-08-04T22:13:00.005-04:00

Last week was a sort of "vacation" week for us as Neesie had off work and we just sort of "hung out" as the young folks say. The best part of the week was an overnight stay in Lancaster County, PA (Amish country) where we went to the Sight & Sound Theatres to see their production of "Joseph." It's well worth your time if you live anywhere in that area. Next week is our VBS and the theme is the story of Joseph. So I'm getting a double dose of my favorite Bible story. Do you have a favorite story and if so, what is it?

Here's a very quick trailer of the production:

What Will You Do With Jesus?

2010-07-24T10:28:00.008-04:00

The preacher recited this to close his sermon on Sunday and I've been thinking about it ever since. If you're saved you should reflect on these words, but if you are not saved, I urge you to think about your answer to this question:

Jesus is standing in Pilate’s hall,
Friendless, forsaken, betrayed by all;
Hearken! what meaneth the sudden call?
What will you do with Jesus?

Jesus is standing on trial still,
You can be false to Him if you will,
You can be faithful through good or ill:
What will you do with Jesus?

Will you evade Him as Pilate tried?
Or will you choose Him, whate’er betide?
Vainly you struggle from Him to hide:
What will you do with Jesus?

Will you, like Peter, your Lord deny?
Or will you scorn from His foes to fly,
Daring for Jesus to live or die?
What will you do with Jesus?

“Jesus, I give Thee my heart today!
Jesus, I’ll follow Thee all the way,
Gladly obeying Thee!” will you say:
“This I will do with Jesus!”

What will you do with Jesus?
Neutral you cannot be;
Someday your heart will be asking,
“What will He do with me?”

~ Simpson

Light Moment: Breaking News

2010-07-23T15:06:00.005-04:00

"Dad, I think the Browns next door are angry at us."

"Why is that?"

"They're probably mad because our dog can retrieve the newspaper and theirs can't."

"How could you possibly know that? We don't even subscribe to the paper."

"Yeah, that's probably got something to do with it, too."

Happy Birthday, Bev!

2010-07-20T12:24:00.005-04:00

Today is another birthday for Bev! For those of you who don't know, Bev is our older daughter. She's also wife to Edie, Mama to Selena and Shana, sister to Neesie, and a friend to countless others. She's now also a busy Christian business lady, working with me as my partner at Speakable Gifts and newly involved in another enterprise called Mommy Bag Marketing. The most important thing about Bev is that she is a child of the King, having a relationship with the Lord Jesus since she was a child. I can attest to the fact that in her case, she came to the Lord at a young age and her heart has been faithful to him since then. Her blog is called The High Calling and she would welcome a visit at any time.

Bev is always doing for others and her husband and sister and a few close friends finally had a chance to do something for her. She couldn't stop them from doing it because they surprised her--with a party on Saturday where all her closest friends and family attended. The picture above was taken at that event.

Happy Birthday, Bev! You are loved by Dad and Mom and many others. And you are a blessing to all of us. Closing with your life verses: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths. " Proverbs 3:5-6.

And the Winner is . . .

2010-07-20T12:03:00.005-04:00

* * * * * * * CATHY!!!!!!!!!! * * * * * * * *

My dear long time blogging friend has won our DaySpring giveaway! Cathy and I have a running joke about her winning prizes from me, especially from the days when she would guess the puzzlers on this blog. So now she's won this special coupon code from DaySpring and I'm tickled pink. When my daughter picked her name, my first reaction was amazed delight. I love Cathy a lot! She's such a humble sister, making her blog a place where others and Christ are lifted up, and not herself. So God wanted to bless her once again with this prize. Visit her at her Melodies and Hymnsongs blog when you get a chance. I hope she enjoys her shopping trip at DaySpring.com. (Oh, and thanks for the Facebook plug, Cathy.)

Thanks to all of you dear folks who participated. It certainly was a lot of fun for us, reading your comments and getting to know new people. Hope to get around to visit a few folks later on.

Blessings from DaySpring and Speakable Gifts.

DaySpring Giveaway

2010-07-12T00:02:00.011-04:00

See the above photos? They're examples of things you can choose if you become the winner of this, our latest giveaway! The DaySpring online store is offering a $20 coupon code and you can win it here on this blog. You could use this code to purchase the Seeds of Joy canvas tote bag or the organizer box. But you are definitely not limited to these products; there are many to choose from! So you get a nice gift for yourself or someone else and only have to pay shipping costs. And you have until November 1,2010 to use your code. That's good timing for all the special events that come in the fall, and of course, for Christmas.

Leave your comment to this post and you are entered. Here are several ways to enter your name. Please leave a comment for each time you do one of the following:

1. Comment and let me know you would like to have your name entered.
2. Blog about this giveaway. Please include a link to this post.
3. Write about it on your Facebook page and include a link to this post.
4. "Like" DaySpring on Facebook.
5. If you haven't already, "Like" Speakable Gifts on Facebook. (There is a link on the sidebar.)
6. If you haven't already, become a follower of this blog. You can choose one, two or more of the above, but please remember to comment for each so your name will be submitted that number of times.

Contest closes on Monday, July 19, 2010, and the winner will be announced on the next day.

Oh! Check out their line of teapots and teacups . I really like some of them and if I were to win (which I can't, of course), I would get one of those teapots!

Note: For those of you who like giveaways, we have the perfect place for you: Visit Giveaway Scout to find loads more. The are updating all day long, so you'll want to subscribe to their feed and visit them several times a day. They have a Facebook page as well. If you have the time, go there and enjoy yourself!

Havin' a Heat Wave

2010-07-06T16:41:00.003-04:00

It's one hundred plus degrees here. We are surely having a heat wave! What's it like where you are? I just got back from the post office and all I can say is "Whew!"

Pledge of Allegiance

2010-07-02T09:03:00.001-04:00

I found this on a website (Boy Scouts of America Troop 780-Dunn, NC) and thought it was an appropriate time to copy it:

When you pledge allegiance to the flag, you promise loyalty and devotion to your nation.

I pledge allegiance...
You promise to be true

...to the flag...
to the emblem of your country

... of the United States of America...
a nation made up of fifty states and several territories, each with certain rights of its own

... and to the republic...
a country where the people elect representatives from among themselves to make laws for them

...for which it stands...
the flag represents the United States of America

... one nation under God,...
a country whose people are free to believe in God

... indivisible,...
the nation cannot be split into parts

... with liberty and justice...
with freedom and fairness

...for all. ...
for every person in the country - you and every other American.

May your Fourth of July holiday be blessed of the Lord. May our country be blessed by Him and return to Him. Trusting you'll be joining in prayer with many others that this will be so. It's a good time for the Lord to be bombarded with lots of prayers for this needy nation. I'm sure you'll agree that our financial needs are not the top priority, but the spiritual and moral are.

Cold Water

2010-06-30T19:40:00.003-04:00

I got this in an email from some friends yesterday. Thought you'd appreciate it:

Can Cold Water Clean Dishes?
This is for all the germ conscious folks
that worry about using cold water to clean.

John went to visit his 90 year old grandfather
in a very secluded, rural area of Saskatchewan

After spending a great evening chatting the night away,
the next morning John's grandfather prepared
breakfast of bacon, eggs and toast.

However, John noticed a film like substance on his plate,
and questioned his grandfather asking,

'Are these plates clean?'

His grandfather replied,

'They're as clean as cold water can get em.
Just you go ahead and finish your meal, Sonny!'

For lunch the old man made hamburgers.

Again, John was concerned about the plates,
as his appeared to have tiny specks around
the edge that looked like dried egg and asked,

'Are you sure these plates are clean?'

Without looking up the old man said,

'I told you before, Sonny, those dishes are as
clean as cold water can get them. Now don't you
fret, I don't want to hear another word about it!'

Later that afternoon, John was on his way to a nearby town
and as he was leaving, his grandfather's dog
started to growl, and wouldn't let him pass.

John yelled and said,
'Grandfather, your dog won't let me get to my car'.

Without diverting his attention from the football game
he was watching on TV, the old man shouted!

'Coldwater, go lay down now, yah hear me!

Wedding Blog Party

2010-06-25T14:58:00.008-04:00

Today a blogger friend of mine had a very nice post about her wedding, with loads of lovely pictures, wherein she indicated she was taking part in a "Wedding Blog Party." I was immediately interested, partly because I'm a June bride and just had an anniversary, and also because our home business is diligently seeking to venture out and minister to brides with a new line of gifts and favors. So because of that, lately I've been particularly interested in all things wedding related.

After thinking about it and wanting to take part, I then wondered what in the world I would do, since I'm too short on time to copy a bunch of photos from our album, and since presumably we were to tell our stories, that might take me a while. Then I thought of a post I made in 2007 for our anniversary, and thought it would be fitting and proper to post it again for this occasion. Hope you like it!

Stephanie at Angelic Accents is the host of this little party, so if you like wedding stories and photos, you might want to visit there. Wow, you should see Stephanie's collection of wedding things and lots of other items as well! Now, here's a trip down memory lane from a thankful wife:

The Tale of an Arranged Marriage

Once upon a time there was a young lady who dwelt in a humble house in a humble little town in a nearby land. It came to pass that this young lady, who was an ardent baseball fan, became friends with a married couple who lived in a house which was on her selfsame block.

So it was that a few years before, in a faraway territory of the country, this married couple had met a nice young man who was on tour with a minor league baseball team. It later happened that at the time of our tale, the man of the married couple became employed by a local soft drink company. Lo and behold, he was amazed and delighted to find the same young man working there whom he had met some time before as a baseball player in that faraway territory.

The married couple thought that it would be a good idea if this young neighbor lady, who loved baseball, could meet this young co-worker man, who once played baseball. So they asked the young lady, who said “okay.” Then they asked the young man, who said “okay.” A phone number was given to the young man, whereupon a phone call was made to the young lady, and forthwith a first date took place—to where else? A baseball game

Time passed, and by and by, on the 12th day of June, in the year 1971, the young lady from the small town was taken as a bride by the young man who worked for the soft drink company. It was shortly thereafter that this young married couple officially began journeying together with the very One who had arranged and orchestrated all of the details of their lives in order that the aforementioned marriage might take place. This same kind Benefactor has kindly provided them with two daughters, a son-in-law, and a precious granddaughter. He also has bountifully supplied them with love, peace, and harmony.

The picture above is of the newly married couple as they were cutting their wedding cake. Thirty-six years have passed since the hot, humid day in June of that year; the couple is no longer considered young; they have continued to abide in humble dwelling places; and baseball is no longer an important factor in their lives. They are still together by the mercies of the same One who arranged the whole union in the first place. Even though they continue to be recipients of abundant blessings from His hand, it will not be until both of them reach their real home in a far better land, claiming their mansions there while living in the presence of their King, that this couple will live happily ever after.

From me, the once young lady, to my dear hubby, the once young man:

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

Cleaning Away

2010-06-24T15:15:00.005-04:00

Doing some much needed cleaning and organizing in the sun room, garage, and closets. You can just imagine. I'm in the right mood. You know--that "ditch it" mood. And the good thing is that I'm throwing out old paperbacks, files, and magazines on recycle day so that I don't get tempted to go and retrieve them. So, I'm dirty and dusty, but happy to be getting this done.

Hope you're all well. I'll check in with you folks when I get done.

The Tender Love a Father Has

2010-06-19T21:04:00.008-04:00

I just looked at our church bulletin for tomorrow (it's usually posted online at our church website) and I see that we're singing this hymn tomorrow. I thought I'd post it in honor of Father's Day. I am thankful for the father of my children and recognize the importance of what a godly father means to a family. Our sermon tomorrow will be about the need for fathers to know the state of their flocks (from Prov. 27:23ff) and may we pray for our husbands, sons, and earthly fathers who take this task seriously. God bless them.

And remember, the love of our Father in heaven is the best!

The tender love a father has
For all his children dear,
Such love the Lord bestows on them
Who worship him in fear.

The Lord remembers we are dust,
And all our frailty knows;
Man's days are like the tender grass,
And as the flower he grows.

The flower is withered by the wind
That smites with blighting breath;
So man is quickly swept away
Before the blast of death.

Unchanging is the love of God,
From age to age the same,
Displayed to all who do his will
And reverence his Name.

Those who his gracious cov'nant keep
The Lord will ever bless;
Their children's children shall rejoice
To see his righteousness.

Some people may not be familiar with this hymn. It's tune is here.

What???

2010-06-15T09:42:00.005-04:00

What will they do next?

A Golden Retriever, dyed to look like a tiger, plays with a Chow Chow, dyed to look like a panda, at the Dahe Pet Civilization Park in Zhengzhou, Henanprovince June 8, 2010. You know, I think our world is slowly turning itself upside down and this is just another indication.

I love animals , particularly adorable ones, and these guys definitely are cute, but I'm not sure how I feel about this.

The Lord's Doing

2010-06-12T12:14:00.007-04:00

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

Thirty-nine years ago today, I married a pretty nice guy. I think since it's been going along quite well that I'll keep him. Why has it been going along pretty well? The verse up above explains it. It's the verse I put on my anniversary card almost every year, because it's true. To God be the glory.

Light Moment

2010-06-07T13:52:00.004-04:00

Junior: Mom, the new baby looks just like Rover.

Mom: Junior! Don't say such a thing.

Junior: It's okay, Mom. Rover can't hear me.

Jesus Calls Us

2010-06-05T22:12:00.006-04:00

Lately I've been feeling sad about the state of Christianity today, especially in our country. I've been thinking about the call of the world and how often people who are considered Christians seem to be succumbing to that call.

But Jesus calls us. He beckons us to follow Him, and if we TRULY are following Him, much of what we see happening today would not be as evident as it is. Let's follow Him, shall we, and take heed to that blessed call. If we really do, maybe a lot of the things we see going wrong will begin to take a turnabout.

This hymn has been ringing in my ears all day. Do you know it? Mrs. Alexander is one of my favorite hymn writers, particularly wanting children to know the great truths of the Bible, but also writing songs which adults love. She once gave profits from a hymnbook to help support handicapped children in northern Ireland. Now that's my kind of hero in a world with so few of them.

Jesus calls us: o'er the tumult
Of our life's wild, restless sea,
Day by day his sweet voice soundeth,
Saying, "Christian, follow me."

As, of old, apostles heard it
By the Galilean lake,
Turned from home and toil and kindred,
Leaving all for his dear sake.

Jesus calls us from the worship
Of the vain world's golden store,
From each idol that would keep us,
Saying, "Christian, love me more."

In our joys and in our sorrows,
Days of toil and hours of ease,
Still he calls, in cares and pleasures,
"Christian, love me more than these."

Jesus calls us: by thy mercies,
Saviour, may we hear thy call,
Give our hearts to thine obedience,
Serve and love thee best of all.
~ Cecil Frances Alexander

Memorial Day 2010

2010-05-30T22:03:00.002-04:00

I still thank the Lord for our country and especially those who have served in the armed services and some having died for the freedoms that we have.

Hoping each of you have a blessed and safe Memorial Day!

CMB Resource Giveaway

2010-05-26T10:15:00.001-04:00

Christian Moms Business Resource is giving away one of our (Speakable Gifts) products on their blog! I sure would love it if one of my bloggy friends could be the winner. Go here to enter.

Increased Strength

2010-05-26T09:14:00.012-04:00

For more encouraging and uplifting Word-Filled Wednesday posts, visit Susan at Forever His.

He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Isaiah 40:29

We have loads of critters exactly like this one in our backyard, always scampering about trying to get at the birdseed. Actually, we like them. The other day when my daughter let our dog out, a fairly young squirrel like this one tried to escape via a dead limb which broke, dropping him with a loud banging sound atop our outdoor grill. He fell onto the ground, lying there limply whereupon our dog Fro hurried over (of course) and picked up this poor helpless creature in his mouth. Neesie , who was horrified, hollered at Fro to "drop it" (he's been trained to drop whatever he has at that command), which he promptly obeyed, and Neesie dragged him (Fro, not the squirrel) inside and then locked our bewildered dog in his crate. She came and got me and both of us stood at the back sliding door with sad hearts, watching this poor little bushy tailed animal trying unsuccessfully to lift itself up. We thought perhaps it had injured its spine or something. Finally, I did something: I prayed for him. Agree with me or not, that's what I did. I asked the Lord to either take him out of this world and end his misery or help him to get out of our yard. About 30 seconds later, he turned on his stomach and inched forward a bit; then, after another minute or so, he began to scamper at a pretty good pace across the yard and through the fence! A few minutes after that, we saw him heading up one of the bigger healthy trees in that yard!

I don't know what happened to him after that, of course, (they all look alike you know), but what a beautiful lesson this little critter was for me on Matthew 6:26 and the above Scripture. There have been and certainly will be times in my life and yours when we are physically, emotionally, and spiritually sapped of all strength. But the wonderful Creator God of this universe, who cares for the smallest of His creatures, won't He care for each one of us and increase our strength for yet another day in the journey?

Praise Him!

2010-05-20T18:08:00.002-04:00

Now is this cute or what? Oh how I wish I had a video like this of my granddaughters. They sing like this in the car!

Uh-Oh

2010-05-14T08:42:00.005-04:00

A couple had just arrived at the concert hall when the husband remarked. "I wish we'd brought along our piano bench."

"What in the world for?" his wife asked.

"Because our tickets are inside the seat."

This is always a big worry for me whenever I go some place, whether a musical concert, baseball game, or whatever when tickets are involved. This is one of those "fears" that I go a bit overboard on. Everybody has some. I usually check and double check that I have the tickets for wherever it is that we're going. I compulsively check over and again.

Another one of those weird fears for me is that I'm going to forget and leave the dog outside overnight. We always let him out one last time before going to bed, and when I'm the last to go to bed, I check in the sun room (where he sleeps in his crate) even when I'm sure he's in there. I HAVE to turn on the light and double check last thing before I go to bed. Very strange. I have more of these kind of things, but I won't bore you with more.

How about you? Do you have any of these compulsive type fears?

Endangered

2010-05-12T10:57:00.012-04:00

More posts for Word-Filled Wednesday can be found at All You Have to Give.

Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the

fruit of the womb is his reward. Psalm 127:3

Yesterday, I was listening to a broadcast over the internet and I heard this particular verse being referenced. Hearing it made me want to post this picture again and pair it with this verse. I posted this picture on several occasions, the first time being when we were waiting for the birth of our first grandchild. I've posted the same image on a couple of other occasions and it has become dear to me. I don't know where I got it, but there are many like it over the internet.

This verse and this image are just another indication of how far our country has strayed from the Word of God. I refuse to refer to the one who is pictured above as a "fetus." He or she is a baby and God refers to this baby as "fruit" and "a reward." Those who think otherwise are going to have to answer to Him.

The person who was being interviewed in that broadcast was given some hard news during her pregnancy with her child who is now nine months old. The doctor gravely looked at her and asked: "How committed are you to this pregnancy?" It was asked in such a way so as to let her know that she did not need to continue on with said pregnancy. She gave the best answer anyone can give: "I'm committed to this baby" was her reply.

It made me think about our need, myself included, to be more committed to the lives of the countless babies who are endangered. Unfortunately,there are some who are more at risk than the many animals which are on the endangered species list. And because of that, I fear our country should be on that list.

Pray that the Lord will lead us all into what more we can do for these babies and for the future of America.

The Vocation of Maternity

2010-05-08T11:39:00.003-04:00

"The best convent," I said, "for a woman is the seclusion of her own home. There she may find her vocation and fight her battles, and there she may learn the reality and the earnestness of life."

"Pshaw!" cried she. "Excuse me, however, for saying that; but some of the most brilliant girls I know have settled down into mere married women and spend their whole time nursing babies! Think how belittling!"

"Is it more so than spending it dressing, driving, dancing, and the like?"

"Of course it is. I had a friend once who shone like a star in society. She married and had four children as fast as she could. Well! What was the consequence? She lost her beauty, her spirit and animation, lost her youth, and lost her health. The only earthly things she can talk about are teething, dieting, and measles!"

I laughed at this exaggeration. . ."As you have spoken plainly to me, knowing me to be a wife and mother, you must allow me to speak plainly in return," I began. ". . .You will permit me to say that when you speak contemptuously of the vocation of maternity, you dishonor not only the mother who bore you, but the Lord Jesus Himself, who chose to be born of woman and to be ministered unto by her through a helpless infancy."

. . . I thought of my dear ones . . .and I thought of my love for them and theirs for me. And I thought of Him who alone gives reality to even such joys as these.

~~~from Stepping Heavenward, by Elizabeth Prentiss

Don't you love the way that Katherine put it? "The vocation of maternity." And what a blessed vocation it is, even though there are times it's a painful one.

I am thinking of all the young mothers who are engaged in the years of diapering, nursing, and nurturing; I'm thinking of the ones who are going through the years of teaching their children or helping them to learn, even if it's homework; I'm thinking of those who are plowing through the preteen and teen years and guiding them in the ways of the Lord; I am thinking of the moms of young adults who are holding Christ before them as they plant their feet in manhood and womanhood; and I am thinking of those with hearts sometimes torn, as they give them or see them off in a home of their own through marriage. I'm also thinking of those who are, with delight, welcoming in the next generation after that, with all the joys that grand parenthood has to offer them.

I believe Mother's Day is a fine holiday and it's a good thing that was instituted by our country some years ago; but I usually find it difficult not to think also of those who may find peculiar pain in it. There's one who is seemingly nearing the end of a long battle with breast cancer as she spends the day tomorrow with her husband and two young children; there are a few I know who are caring for very aged mothers in stressful situations; there is one who recently lost her beloved daughter who was also her best friend; there are some who will spend the day by the bedside of a very sick child who may not make it; and there are always those who want to be mothers, but God for His own reasons has withheld it from them. I'll have all these in my thoughts today and tomorrow.

So, for those engaged in this vocation, with all its blessings and challenges, I wish you a blessed Mother's Day. For all of those for whom this calling is yet a dream and hope, I wish you the same, because you have it in your heart. May the Lord Jesus use you all in the work of His kingdom.

Praying for Our Country

2010-05-06T22:24:00.003-04:00

I am so sorry that I neglected the National Day of Prayer, but it's not too late to post something. During the days of the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln sorrowfully declared these words:

"We have been recipients of the choicest bounties of Heaven...but we have forgotten God...We have forgotten the gracious had which preserved us in peace...Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us."

In the early days of this young nation, George Washington, wrote to governors of the newly freed states asking that they join him in this prayer, which ended:

"And finally that thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation. Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen"

Our poor dear country is so spiritually needy now. What would these two great men, who I firmly believe loved America with all their hearts, want us to do now? They would implore us to fall on our knees and plead with God for mercy to turn the hearts of many back to Him. People have been praying all over the land in various places today. I don't know how many there were, but I sure am thankful for those who did and those who will be continuing to lift up America to our only Helper: The Creator God of this universe, in the Name of His Son Jesus Christ.

I eat okra!

2010-04-30T17:10:00.002-04:00

This is sort of like breaking news: I'm starting to actually like okra. Well, at least a little. Or perhaps it would be better if I said I don't dislike it as much as I used to. Maybe it would be even more accurate to say that the way I'm cooking it now, I will even come back and get a bit more after eating my token spoonful and I don't feel like gagging. (BTW,I HATE fried okra!)

I started out cooking it just for my husband, who loves it, and I would force myself to eat it, but now I can truthfully say that I am not forcing it down. If you're wondering why I would bother to eat it when I haven't liked it, it's because it's one of the most nutritional food items you can find. Just look it up and you'll see. So what about you? Are you one of those who are in the minority like my husband and love okra, or are you a part of the vast majority who hate it? Do you cook it? If so, how?

Here's my recipe and it's the only way I do it now. It helps to have some of these other veggies with it, so that it gets lost in the shuffle a bit. But hubby likes it this way too.

Skillet Okra

1 Tablespoon olive oil
16 oz. bag frozen cut okra
1 onion, sliced
1/2 green pepper, sliced and pieced
2-3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 16 oz can diced tomatoes
1 cup frozen or canned corn
About 1/2 teaspoon salt
pepper
Mrs. Dash's table blend - sprinkle on
Basil - sprinkle on

Heat up the oil in a large skillet and then add the other ingredients. Sprinkle with the basil and Mrs. Dash (or some other spice you like), cover and heat until okra is tender. I think it takes about 15 minutes. It's not too bad this way!

Actually, I probably should fix him some later today. He's having a hard time these days. He found out he has a herniated disk and is going to a doctor for therapy at the present. We're praying that helps. Maybe some okra would help him feel better?

Oh, and my toe is better. Good thing, I have a lot more duties these days with his condition being what it is.

Hope all is well at your place!

A Needed Light Moment

2010-04-27T08:55:00.004-04:00

A doctor's receptionist answered the phone and was screamed at by an excited man at the other end of the line.

"My wife's in labor!" he yelled. "I think she's going to deliver any minute now."

"Please calm down," the receptionist said. "Is this her first child?"

"No, no! I'm her husband!"

Hobbling Along

2010-04-22T12:05:00.007-04:00

"He who limps is still walking." ~ Stanislaw J. Lec

I ran across this quote a few weeks ago and took note of it then. I don't know who this fellow is that said it, but I said to myself "Now that's the right attitude to have." Then, a couple of days ago, I saw it again and it had an even greater impact. You see, when I got up on Monday morning, I realized that my right big toe was hurting when I walk. I have no idea why; it's almost as if it was injured, but when and how who knows? Well, it still hurts to walk on it, but thankfully I am walking, even if it's not a very pretty walk.

Even worse than that is my husband. He went for an MRI on his hip Monday (it gives him trouble off and on) and since then, he's been in a lot of pain, probably because of lying in an uncomfortable position for that long. At least I only hurt when I walk, he hurts all the time right now, and getting into a comfortable position lying down is quite a challenge!

I talked to our daughter Bev earlier and she has this sciatic type pain from time to time and is having it pretty big time today! So we're quite a crew, aren't we?

Neesie has to work extra days this week so Chuck and I are needing to take her back and forth to work more days than usual, so that has added to the fun. At least, driving isn't painful for me, and for him I guess it's no worse than lying down.

So that's where we are with things right now. Thought I better check in. The taxes are done; third quarter grades were mailed in on Tuesday; and we've started putting our new products online. Go check them out when you get a chance! And please pray for us!

My Duty

2010-04-14T09:00:00.000-04:00

For more Word-Filled Wednesday posts, visit Lori at All You Have to Give.

Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. Romans 13:7

Well, I finished them today. Finally. As I have said before, I usually have very bad attitude about doing them, and it never fails that there is some sort of "hitch" that comes up as I work on them. This time was no exception, but the problem had to do with the H & R Block program as there was something I didn't understand. Well, a phone call to a customer service rep made it all okay and now it's done. I posted this verse for Word filled Wednesday to remind myself (and perhaps others) that this is part of my duty as a citizen of our country and I should not be sour about fulfilling that duty. But I am also reminding myself that I am obeying God in the meantime and certainly that makes it feel better. Do you agree?

Polish Tragedy

2010-04-12T10:21:00.004-04:00

Oh how our hearts go out to the people of Poland. Praying for them; may the Lord help them.

Faces of Haiti

2010-04-11T18:42:00.003-04:00

Lest we forget. . .I thought I'd bring the people of Haiti to our attention once again. Did you know that tomorrow is the three month anniversary of the earthquake? Unbelievable. This morning in Sunday school we had an emotional presentation by a man who has gone down there to assist with some of the Christian efforts. Some of the photos we saw and his first hand account left many folks in tears. You may not hear much about Haiti in the news anymore, but there is much going on down there and so many precious Christian people are doing ministry in the name of Jesus. I hope we all remember to keep this needy country in our prayers.

Belated Wishes

2010-04-05T23:04:00.005-04:00

I hope your Resurrection Day was as blessed as mine. We had a precious Easter sermon preached yesterday by a sweet man who has become a dear friend to our congregation. He is eighty-one years young and still going. After the service, I asked Dr. K. how long he had been walking with the Lord. "Since I was 11," he said. "So it's been seventy years." So I said, "So, you're 81." "That's what they tell me," he said. Isn't that just wonderful? To have walked with the Lord for seventy years.
And what makes it even better is the fact that he shows no signs of slowing down!

Then, the rest of the day was made so very enjoyable by a DELICIOUS ham dinner with the people I love most of all, humanly speaking. Want to see some pictures from our day, you say? Sure, here are a few for you:

Am I blessed or what?

Alas! and Did my Saviour Bleed

2010-04-01T09:24:00.005-04:00

Alas! and did my Saviour bleed,
And did my Sovereign die!
Would he devote that sacred head
For such a worm as I!

Was it for crimes that I had done
He groaned upon the tree!
Amazing pity! grace unknown!
And love beyond degree!

Well might the sun in darkness hide,
And shut his glories in,
When Christ, the mighty Maker, died
For man the creature's sin.

Thus might I hide my blushing face
While his dear cross appears;
Dissolve my heart in thankfulness,
And melt mine eyes in tears.

But drops of grief can ne'er repay
The debt of love I owe;
Here, Lord, I give myself away,
'Tis all that I can do.

~ Isaac Watts

Tomorrow, once again, we come to another Good Friday when we remember His sacrifice. Yes, it is a "good" Friday, because if it had not been for that sacrifice, where would we be? Meditate on it, dear friends, and may the words of Mr. Watts, written so long ago, minister to your hearts.

Thursday Already

2010-03-25T11:09:00.004-04:00

Well, hi dear friends. I have been neglecting my poor little blog here, I know. Can you believe it's Thursday already? Where in the world has the time gone?

In this household, it's the usual. Poor Neesie is bogged down under with schoolwork, and me? For one thing, I have started the income taxes and wonder of wonders, have remained sane so far! But then, I've only gotten ten percent through it, so that's not saying much. Seriously, though, since we switched to the H & R Block online tax service, it has been far far better than the old days. So much of the info is saved from previous years, and they do help guide you through the process. For us, it is worth the $29.95, so this is a little plug for the H & R online. Also, my sanity has remained more intact since I start it a bit "earlier" (that is, late March instead of early April!), and only do a small segment at a time. Somehow, it's seems less painful that way. I guess you can tell, there is not a lot of love for the IRS around here, and we don't even usually have to pay them anything! Unfortunately, it must be an area of besetting sin which should be given over to the Lord. That's not a joke.

Also, we're in the middle of developing new products at Speakable Gifts, some which are wedding related, so please pray for my daughter Bev and me as we seek God's help and direction in this. I'll let you know when we have it pretty much all together.

But we're still looking to Jesus in our little corner of the world. I know many of you are too. I'm going to try to "steal" some moments here and there through the course of the day to check on some of you to see what you're up to!

Happy Spring

2010-03-20T10:57:00.009-04:00

Well, folks, it appears that we've made it. On this first day of spring we can rejoice that we got through one of the worst winters that I can remember. And oh, how happy everyone is. The birds are, of course; we've been talking much about their singing, but I think most of us are feeling it a bit more than is usual for the coming of the season. Everything is still pretty bare outside, but the temperatures are wonderful! Low seventies for today; now you can't get much better than that!

Enjoy the day where you are! Summer is on it's way. Which, by the way doesn't necessarily make me happy, because as you will recall, I dislike summer, with it's mosquitoes, humidity and other discomforts, but let's just enjoy each as it comes.

And have a nice Lord's Day tomorrow! Don't let this health care legislation get you down--The Lord is in control. If He doesn't answer our prayers in the way that we desire, we can rest assured He is doing what is absolutely His will for this country. And His will is always best. And remember all the more: our citizenship is in heaven; this world is not our home.

Oh! This may be a treat for this first day of spring. Apparently, the sky is going to be putting on a show tonight in honor of the equinox Go here to find out more. (Please excuse the references to the age of the universe.)

Bulldog Puppies

2010-03-20T10:45:00.005-04:00

A notice in a weekly newspaper advertised bulldog puppies.

"Cute, already housebroken." the advertisement promised. "Eat most any food you put in front of them. Love children."

Fruitbearing

2010-03-16T22:48:00.007-04:00

You can find more Word Filled Wednesday posts to bless your soul at Cristy's Critty Joy.

The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree,
He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.
Those who are planted in the house of the Lord
Shall flourish in the courts of our God.
They shall still bear fruit in old age;
They shall be fresh and flourishing,
To declare that the Lord is upright;
He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.

Psalm 92:12-15

This passage has been dear to me for a good while now, but as the years pass, it becomes even more so. I know quite a few golden years folks who are really living this passage and they are such encouragements to me. Now that I too am older, I sure do pray the Lord will give me strength to bear fruit to His glory, even in old age.

Praising My Savior

2010-03-13T22:52:00.007-05:00

Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord. Psalm 150:6

Look what I found. My wonderful birds and my mom's favorite hymn together! What a blessing. Are the birds singing his praises where you live? They sure have been around here. Especially early in the morning! We should be more like them...Praising our Savior all the day long!

World Vision Tragedy

2010-03-11T08:47:00.005-05:00

Many of you know how I feel about the work of World Vision around the world. Whenever there is a terrible catastrophe, it is usually through this organization that our family gives, with confidence that the money will reach the people in need.

You may have heard the news yesterday, but having been out most of the day, I didn't hear until last night when I got the email from WV U.S. President Richard Stearns which started out: "It is with a sad heart that I write to you about a terrible loss to the World Vision family. . ." He then went on to tell about the brutal murder of six WV workers in their office in a district of Pakistan. Eight others have been hospitalized as a result of this attack by gunmen. I have to say the email left me shocked and horrified. I feel as though I am a part of the WV family (we have been sponsoring children with them for many years), and I don't remember ever getting an email quite like this one. Usually the emails tell about how they are helping in the various areas of devastation in the many countries which need it. WV often use nationals in their work, which I think was the case here. Please, please pray for those who survived, the families of the victims, and for the people whom they were trying so hard to help. Needless to say, the organization has had to temporarily suspend operations in Pakistan, but they also state their commitment to helping the people there. Such is the spirit of World Vision.

A Needed Lighter Moment

2010-03-05T09:02:00.004-05:00

In honor of geometry, which is trying to drive me batty:

What do you get if you divide the circumference of a pumpkin by its diameter?

Answer: Pumpkin pi.

Now that was funny, unless you have no clue what a circumference or a diameter is, and if that's the case, you may be better off. Maybe it's me, maybe I'm too old for this,maybe it's just that I would rather be doing about ten other things, but trying to work through and understand geometry with Neesie is getting. . .Well, let's just say I'll be glad when it's over. At first I liked it, if you remember my post a while back, but I think I've joined the ranks of countless others, especially girls, who consider it something that exists to make life just a bit more difficult. One book said that geometry is "a giant puzzle with interlocking pieces that you must snap together." Sorry to say, but it's not quite as enjoyable as those jigsaw puzzles that I have sitting in the other room that are so relaxing to work through. And who were all those people who figured all of this out anyway? That Euclid must have been quite a guy. I'm glad not to know him, lol. Oh well, this too will pass.

And on top of that, I need to get to the income taxes. That's another post, though. It would not be early spring without my talking about the taxes.

Please excuse the autumn picture in the springtime. Wish I had a piece of pumpkin pie right now.

Nanna's Reflections

Mom's Clothesline

Merry Christmas!!

For Waltons Lovers

Giving Thanks

Cooler Corn

Photograph by Scott DeSimon

Three Year Old Shana!

Another Girlie!!

Five Years Old!

Beautiful Savior

To Kill an American

Are You Up for This?

So True

Girlie Friendship

Happy Mother's Day

The End

Sweeties

Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed

Topsy-Turvy

Be Still

Installation Delay

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God Will Take Care of You

Pray for Japan!

Checking In

Nearer My God to Thee

Little Bean

Arthur and Gwen

Epitaph

Is it Spring Yet?

Lovely Weather

A Secret Work

Today, Not Yesterday

Amazon Gift Card Deal

End of Ozzie and Harriet

Unsearchable Riches of Christ

God Will Take Care of You

Read and Share Bible

Extra Special Christmas Gift

Just a Coating

"Silver" Church Anniversary

Unusual Santas

Tranquility in Sorrow

Little Decorators

Happy Thanksgiving

White Lie Church Cake

A Wonderful Savior

Don't Ask . . .

Thy Law, My Delight

Fall Treats

Thomas Sowell Quotes

Be Still

Rescued

Shana's Turn!

A No-No

Natural Remedies

Fairest Lord Jesus

Sneaky Nutrition - Sweet Potato Pie

No Words Needed

Four Years Old!

So Refreshing

Precious Suffering Children

Pit to Prison to Power

Joseph

What Will You Do With Jesus?

Light Moment: Breaking News

Happy Birthday, Bev!

And the Winner is . . .

DaySpring Giveaway

Havin' a Heat Wave

Pledge of Allegiance

I found this on a website (Boy Scouts of America Troop 780-Dunn, NC) and thought it was an appropriate time to copy it:

When you pledge allegiance to the flag, you promise loyalty and devotion to your nation.

Cold Water

Wedding Blog Party

Cleaning Away

The Tender Love a Father Has

What???

The Lord's Doing

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