6 Most Encouraging Phrases

Why are people so timid about expressing encouragement to someone? I refuse to let my mind go into negative mode and accept it. It's my passion...may God use me in a special way because today I have 6 phrases you can use!!!!

I love you.

Dinner is served.

All is forgiven.

Keep the change.

You're lost weight.

I believe in you.

Just do it! Encourage someone this day. Use the Niki favorite encouragement phrase!!! : )

Sweet idea

If you know someone who is in the middle of a difficult trial, struggle - a long illness or a period of financial strain - your words of kindness and love, your confidence in them, your ability to lighten their load can bring hope and encouragement to their lives.

Reading List of Blogs

I love to read other blogs and keep up with what's going on in each life! It's a passion with me. Lately I have talked to so many people who think blogs are a thing of the past since we have Facebook. I don't agree. Facebook is a social networking and so cool, but blogs let you in on what really does interest the writer. I truly love to encourage people...I'm finding out people want to live unto theirself, so they aren't interested, or they don't think they can write, so they don't bother with reading blogs. I have people who subscribe to my blog and it thrills me...it shows me they care about me and that goes a l--o--n--g way!!!!

Right now I'm going on almost 900 posts I have written. Each day just gets better and more encouraging to me as I think back how far I have come since our Son put my blog in. It's a way of writing thoughts and being an encouragement even to one person, it is worth it!!! Getting up super early to read the blogs of friends that I have is so awesome! Recently I started reading Phil McGraw's blogs. Awesome!

Have a happy Saturday and a day off I hope from the hustle and every day grind of things! Be good to yourself and enjoy life!!!!

How to Fight Discouragement!!!

Reject rejection.

See mistakes as temporary.

See failures as isolated incidents.

Keep expectations positive.

Focus on strengths.

Vary your approach to achievement.

Bounce back.

I do a lot of this! It's a constant prayer and call to action for me to encourage instead of discourage!!!! How about you? + a lot of scripture that keeps me going!!

What makes you better?

Encouragement makes me feel so much better.

Makes the high spots in all of our lives and most of them have come about through encouragement from someone else!

Philippians 1:6 - "He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until day of Jesus Christ."

Makes you believe in yourself!

It forces you to have a good opinion of yourself; makes you get more out of yourself. And once you learn who you really are, you do your very best.

And that's what my blog is all about; I want more than anything more and less, than to live it! How about you? It takes getting out of your bubble and doing it! There's nothing worse than to be around someone that WILL NOT encourage...they tear down...all we're responsible for is ourselves and account to a God who loves us wonderfully to help us encourage!!! Keep on keeping on; never give up!

Veteran's Day!!

Sending a blog of encouragement to all the military people who deserve a great celebration for being a Veteran! I know my own husband I congratulate for serving in the Navy and a hero for Viet Nam war serving! He wears his Veteran Hat with pride and I give him all the fanfare because I appreciate every second served! Happy Veteran's Day! Tons of gratitude from me, that's for sure!

Settle for Very Best!

Never settle for less; give your very best.

Encourage and it gives the best to them and it comes back to you! I promise!

I truly believe ENCOURAGEMENT gives hope!

Psalm 33:22 - "Let your mercy, O Lord, be upon us, just as we hope in You."

That is settling for the very best! Have a "best" Tuesday!!!!

Lives Changed!

Have you ever felt your life changed?

I have.

We spent our entire lives encouraging others and now it's time we receive encouraged! That sounds odd to me, but receiving does change one's life!

No matter how busy you are, you must take time to make the other person important!

That will change a life of giving and receiving! Pure and simple! Enjoy your week. Bless and be blessed!

Everyone Appreciates A Kind Word!

One of the avid motivational speakers, John Maxwell said: "Speak up TODAY and say something positive. Even a tombstone will say something good about people when they are dead."

I believe it is not insincerity when you compliment your enemy. The compliment is an honest statement of praise for some objectiv trait or merit that deserves commendation. Your praise may help a lonely soul! The world is starving for appreciation. It is hungry for compliments. Somebody has to start the ball rolling! Try saying something kind to your fellow friends and family! It works!

High Apples

When I ever go to eat chinese food, I love it when they leave a fortune cookie because I love to read the inside admonishment.

Here's a super great one: "Reach for the high apples first; you can get the low ones any time." I'm stuck on that one. Let that soak in and be encouraged as you read it. This will give you a grateful attitude and be proud of your accomplishments!

Happy Friday! It's supposed to be 80 degrees! Reach for those high apples!!! yea!!

Pray Boldly!!!!!

Pray and obey!!!

Pray Boldly!!!

But, do pray!!!

God wants to do exceedingly above and beyond!!!

He will show us!

Like I've said, we need faith that He multiplies!!! Ask for it!

Ps. 118:24 "This is the day the Lord hath made, let us be glad and rejoice in it!!!"

Yesterday I was around EVERYONE (& I mean that) with unbelievable attitudes and I'm not judging, I promise. Have you ever been in a great mood and then run into down and outers??? HMMMM I have my share. So, I tell myself I can't change people - I just need to pray. One of my friends took me to lunch and then she wanted me to go with her to a store close by and she had to buy some "jelly shoes" for the pool she had been doing her water aroubics and out of six people who waited on us....all 6 blew her off. I felt badly for her, so I left and she was going to another store to check on them. I told her to forgive them and go on and not let them ruin her day.

Today I'm going to take some time and pray boldly and for myself that their negative attitudes don't remain in my mind. It takes an "Attitude of Gratitude" to just praise Him and keep on serving!!

Aloneness

Spending time alone can be fun, if you don't sit and pick out the dorky things you do! If you just get your mind on what you love to look at or people you find who will receive your enthusiastic attitude. There's been so many times when I go to visit a friend and find that some of the people around where they are, have odd looks like "who is she?" Then my brain starts thinking...."I don't like their non-verbal looks...." You know what I mean. I don't look for their approval, I would just love for them to join in the conversation and enjoy if they choose to come around.

Have you ever noticed that when you are walking your dog, people talk to the dog and not you? Hmmmmm

I love to go and see what is going on in the world so that I came come back home and journal for my-to-be up and coming book I want to write. Everyone knows I am a "People Person" so seeing someone hypes me up to write! Of course, there have been times when I sit on the bench in the mall to see exactly what is taking place in the world with people. I call it aloneness because I'm not alone; God directs my path and gives me just enough time, talent and testing to see if I am following my goals, dreams, and plans!!!! Enjoy being alone and take it for what it's worth. You are worth it for sure!!!!! Time to think, and think some more!!! : )
II Cor. 12

F-A-I-T-H

Acronyms
F - forgetting
A - all
I - I
T - trust
H - Him

Bottom line, we have to trust Him.
For all our needs, our love given out, our answers, and our victories!

I put my total trust in Him and ask that He is with me every second of every day!

His promises are sure and true! Put your faith out there and see if He is there. Yes, He is!

Greatest Time Ever!!!!!

Last night we had birthday celebration for our Son!!! The grandkids were absolutely adorable, brilliant, and so wonderful just being grandkids. I love the way they are so alert. Our grandson is eight years old and had on the coolest jeans...like his dad's and mom's...they had the holes in them. And I know those jeans are bought like that...I can remember the days my Momma told me to throw those away if they remotely looked like they had a hole in them or flaw. Everyone had a great time; it was so hard to leave!

Birthdays....they do not annoy me; they so overjoy me..... celebrating the recepient!!!! Our kids are sooo eternally grateful that we still "get together" and it brings such an amazing closeness. My prayer is "Dear God...never, never, never let us stray from each other as an extremely close family, and two hours, two seconds, or two minutes, let us ENJOY each other to the fullest." He has answered my prayer each time we celebrate a family member's birthday and the thanks we get is beyond comprehension! I will relive these memories a loooonnngggg time!!!! (Hence; no blog yesterday.....my mind wouldn't stop thinking of the joy our Son has brought to our lives!!!!!) Have a great Monday!

A Great Day For Us!

Halloween will always go down in history in the makings for my precious hubby and me!!!! Our first child was born on this day. Of course we celebrate in our hearts and minds, him, way over Halloween! It was a great day for us; it's just like it was yesterday....I was all prepared to pass out the greatest candy; instead about 3 p.m. I started serious labor pains and viola.....at approximately 7:30 p.m., Oct. 31st a wish came true for us, our Son came into this world, and has always brought us happiness, joy, and much respect and I love it because of his marvelous support and admonishes me to always have fun with whatever I do or with the grandkiddos!

.....so I'll say share this great Halloween Day with us as we enjoy it to the fullest!!! And have fun with those Trick or Treaters; I'm sure they will be all decked out in the costume of their choice!

From Where I Sit.........from Carol's Heart!!!!

I see a lot of encouraging that needs to happen from my end since that is my passion for having this blog. Being in the blog-is-phere and reading other bloggers' subjects, it seems there is a lot of down moments with them and to the extreme that they spend most of their lives with "past" (there's that word again) hurts, pain, etc. and to me would need lots and lots of encouragment! I'm not saying I'm perfect at encouraging, but they constantly send me e-mails thanking me and wishing they could be like me. Whoa.....that set me to thinking. Am I really an encouraging person? My hubby says it's a gift and passion I have and from where he sits, I live that way!!! He says the first thing I want to do is "encourage someone who seems to be having a low day and can hardly wait to say something that will compliment them to hang in there."

Okay, that's a great way of putting "ME" -- so I can handle that! I just cannot wait until their face lights up when encouraging words come out of my mouth! (That's a brag on God, not me.) Maybe it is a gift and what's wrong with bragging on this quality since I really feel like God has given me the gift of encouragement. Giving Him all the glory is great, because who is the number ONE person who needs the encouragement.....ME.....who wants to encourage the encourager????? I know Geneva did this week by her comment....and I say thanks, Geneva. You are definitely an encourager of encouragers....whoooohooo. I know our Son and Daughter are definitely encouragers. Although FB is taking over in winning relationship living by society. But, I still love blogging. It has been three years that I had our Son put in my new blog and I have hardly missed a day....so I'm celebrating a 3-year dream and for some reason I can't give it up! Enjoy your Friday!!! (& Halloween weekend!)

Past Vs. Present

I guess I am the world's greatest "Vs." writer....I enjoy so much comparing so that we all can make a choice to do what's happier for us!!!! Check out these questions and my comment.

Is your past one that you wish you had never lived?

Is your past something that you want to continue to relive again and again?

You cannot enter your tomorrow as long as you HOLD ON to your past.

Let go....to get to Present! :=D

Prayer Journal

I haven't blogged a while re: my prayer journal. I got it out today and I'm semi-caught up! But I did notice some wonderful blessings, so reading it was fabulous! My strength is in the Lord and His grace and mercy! I am soooo grateful to the delight of God's blessings because of prayer. Listen, prayer works! Never give up! Only God can wipe those tears from your eyes. Oh yes, it hurts when we are in needs....but He works it to come out victorious when we fully rely on Him!

Reading your own prayer journal is amazing; not to sound high-headed about it, but enjoying everyday life!!!

Worse Vs. Best

From where I sit and listen to women, I find (come on ladies....'fess up) it to be true that we tend to think about the worse, then best. Are we too negative? Only an individual can answer that question.

Why is it always his fault? His meaning boyfriend, hubby, or any male?

Maybe it's time to own up and admit we need to take a long hard look at ourselves and start practicing the BEST! woohoo as said multiple times on FB!!!!

Don't miss out on your opportunity to experience God's best in your life because you are focused on the worse of your life!

She served with joy!

My husband was so happy that God had blessed Him. So, he said "Let's go to Joe's and eat out." (Since this is a rarity since we retired.) Joe's is where their motto is "Where Irving Meets People." The Owner of the restaurant is "Carol." But when she trained her .....waitresses.....that's what they were called way back when, she trained them respectfully to SERVE with joy! In fact, they have a tenure of being there, so by now, they have mustered the art of servitude! Lo and behold the Hostell seated us in just the perfect table where our Server was incredible! She served! I cannot describe! She was one of those that puts the plates and saucers up her arm (my Sister Eva Sue was a Waitress like that). Of course Senior Adults gravitate to Joe's because #1, it is very cheap....15% discount if you're a Senior and the Service is so great! We complimented her and she asked that we say what we said to her Manager.

Of course, the Manager came over and we had no problem whatsoever gloating over her being such a super Server. That brought us so much joy to compliment her and she said she would put high marks for her when it comes time for her review.

The greatness of this blog....I'll wrap it all up.....when it comes to serving other people, every person is worthy of their best! We felt like King and Queen when we left Joe's. I'd love to hear you share your story of someone who has SERVED YOU lately. Have a joyful Monday, serving! I'm going to Serve homemade potato soup to my hubby. He's a little under the weather from having two shots; flu and pnemonia. He's experiencing some soreness....ugh....so that potato soup will work real well!!!!

Patience

Remember - It's God's timing!

Many times, God promises us things and rather than wait until He gives those things to us, we become anxious and attempt to make things happen. In the end, we create a mess!

God knows the precise timing for the fulfillment of the things He has promised us and wants us to be patience so that nothing can stand in the way of His bringing to pass what He wills.

Stay Close To God ...r...a...n...d...o...m thoughts

He is there, working in your favor! I'm a firm believer that what goes around, comes around; you reap what you sow. If you sow hatred against someone, you get hatred. It's just that simple! Some people just don't get it. If you choose not to speak to someone or reject them, you'll get plenty of rejection. I've seen this come about in every single minute in the ministry! If you look harsh at someone, you will get the same thing back!

As far as being a Christ-follower, I have noted all these years the question: why does someone want to live like that, knowing full well what the consequences are? Recently I noted with interest some pics someone sent to me and why would someone knowingly not smile at a really cool event? There's all kinds of excuses; they don't like their pic taken, they were having a bad dad, they wanted to sit and look angry or maybe they didn't know their pic was being taken. At any rate, I don't mean to be judging, but why look so unhappy, when you really are happy.

Staying close to God makes me want to live a victorious life and go with the flow! One bad apple can really spoil the whole bushell....God's word says "Worship the Father in spirit and truth for the Father is seeking such to worship Him." Jo 4:23

Snuggle up to Him and fully rely on Him! I promise - it works!

Only God Can Take Your Cares

Only God can take them on HIS shoulders.

There are bondages only God can break.

There are situations ony God can resolve.

There are circumstances only God can change.

Only God can fix your heart and cause you to love!

Only God can mend your mind.

Only God can give you a deep awareness of how valuable you to HIM!

What a glorious destiny He has for you!

Passivity

Sounds so negative, but when put in a positive direction, it is really a way to put your faith into action!

Passive people don't win in life. People expect that "well, it just happens (it meaning joy, happiness, etc.)."

It happens when you trust the living Holy God! Read Joshua 1:8 - it takes effort to speak, effort to read and study and meditate on His Word, and effort to do that every day, day in and day out!

While unpacking, I found I have three current Bibles I use at some time every single day. Not meaning that I work out of all three, meaning one of the Bibles have promises marked and I lean toward that one. I could become passive and not even reach for one of them and say, oh well, that's too much work! No, I want my life to count; I HAVE to rely on His promises or I'll never make it!

He is Lord of all and supplies our every single need! Have a super Thursday and remember to read Joshua 1:9; it will get you out of passivity!

What Does It Mean To Be On The Same Page?

It literally means, I think, have thoughts of safety, wellness, happiness, great health, prosperity, favor, rest, and wholesome with your hubby or even great friends!

In other words, nothing missing and keep the gap closed to the brokenness that comes in.

Also, it means same destination! I would like to admonish you to not be on another planet when it comes to being on the same page. I say that because, ladies, come on admit, we, at times tend to live in a me, myself, and I (into our own self) and have no clue what our spouse wants, let alone consider his opinion.

I saw a perfect example of this when we were dealing with an Executive at the bank who took a report we gave him; then he made up his own report and had no clue what our report said....in fact, he kept saying "just wanna be on the same page with y'all"...... wrong ....be on the same page; anyone with any facts could see how wrong he was.

Remember: Have a conscious commitment to a common goal together!!!! Happy Wednesday!

Audit Your Life!

Energy, creativity, commitment, and resources are the audit areas.

Know where you are physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Know your limits! Endeavor to consider yourself very important!

Keep yourself organized or you will become grumpy, and have an attitude where NO ONE will want to be around you.

Where I used to work, when an Auditor came in to audit the medical and dental claims, we treated them like VIP's and my boss always said "Always cooperate with them."

Try that on yourself; Audit your life and be a VIP!!! As they say on FB woooohooo!!!

True Self

Your true self is made up of your deepest desires and gifts, abilities, and dreams and passions. God created that in you. It is who He made you to be!

Selfishness is not a matter of pursuing your true self. Selfishness is when you stop giving to others and when you kee all of the harvest you reap for your own pleasures.

I find that when I share what I have, I feel so happy. It takes time (as we all know) to make a batch of wonderful toll house chocolate chip cookies. Sharing them with a neighbor means you have less, but think of the joy that thinking of others gives! I'm a global giver...when I make banana bread, it goes to the outer yonders of the earth to whomever. How about you? Do you give to God more and watch Him bless you mightily? Oooooo it feels so good! Have a happy Monday and be encouraged!

Victories!!!! .....Random thoughts......

You cannot conquer what you will not confront. And you cannot confront what you do not identify. Each and every day we must look in the mirror and deal with what we see there.

But, we must be willing to identify, confront, and conquer any issues in our life to have victories. I know so many people who carry "yesterday's problems" and cannot deal with them. God plans our destiny and wants to work out issues even if it gets to where it will awaken us some times and it could be an odd time of the day!

How can you see victories with blinders on? I also know some people who wouldn't admit it is their mistake for love or money! I think we are a much bigger person if we own up, fess it and go on with a happier life. I've also thought that there aren't very many people who can do that because it's easier to blame someone else. And then there's the dominating, controlling person that's around and as long as they can control, that will definitely cause not to confront.

My question is how can people live without warmth in their personality or love for the other person. I knew a girl one time that always said positive things about people...I wish I could find where she lives now, because I could use a double encouragement from her being so positive.

Begin the habit of caring, loving, and being positive and watch those victories soar!!

Choose What?

Life!

What is good!

What produces blessing!

.....and shows love!

Walk in Agreement!

.....make a decision to walk in agreement with the significant people in your life!

to come in agreement and affirm!

Be loving to the people we consider different from us!

Be at peace among yourselves. I Thess. 5:13

I went to the Mall to walk a bit and I cannot begin to tell you how many arguments I heard from either a Mom and a child or husband or wife! I was shocked. I don't know why; I guess it was so public!

Think about it; walking in peace....awe how refreshing! Happy Friday!

Others

What you make happen for others, God will make happen for you.

I so believe that statement! You must initiate or act upon what God has promised to you!

Start helping others.

The Bible is full of promises that are promised to you for "others."

Believe That God Can Heal You!

Healing is an equal-opportunity business.....

You must believe God is the Healer!

God can rebuild your broken life!

He can restore your broken home.

& best of all, He can remold your broken dreams!

I take my confidence in this from His Holy Word!

I challenge you to read the Psalms 119....the only longest chapter in the Bible!
(Then you will believe!!!)

Replenishing

If you are depleted spiritually, take time to replenish yourself spiritually.

If you are depleted emotionally, you need to do thos things that fill you up emotionally!

If you are depleted physically, you need to do what's necessary to get that energy back!

It doesn't mean we do stop caring.....we turn our cares over to the Lord, asking the Lord to take care of us in ways we cannot!

Replenishing is so needed! Go for it!

Backwards and Foward

You cannot look backwards and forward at the same time!

Your tomorrow does not have to be like your yesterday. Where you came from doesn't determine where you are going!

Too many people today are predicting their end based on their beginnings. In life the most important thing is not where you start, but where you finish.

I am so thankful that God can interrupt a person's life and change the destiny of that person for His good. God does not use your past to determine your future....why should you?

I encourage you to not plan your future only by comparing it to your past. Be blessed this Monday! Always look to the miracles, blessings, and answers to prayers!

Work 6 Days And Rest One Day!

God designed us to have a day of praise and thanks and quiet meditation on His Word. He designed us to have a day in which we gather with others to praise and give thanks and to study His Word.

The 3 R's...restoration, replenishment and refreshment. God designed us to have a rhythm in our lives in which we have a time totally devoted to restoring what has been given out, replenishing what has been used up, receiving back what has been spent, and refreshing what has grown stale. Then we can have a great relationship with Him!

Admonishing!!!!

.....someone to not give up.

.....being so grateful.

.....praying for those who have requested prayer.

.....getting the rest needed. (A must!)

.....get in the word!

.....have Saturday fun!

.....stay in a positive attitude.

.....remember your pets!

.....compliment a great job your hubby has done!

.....give your ownself a pat on the back also!

make it a super Saturday!

Where Do You Find God?

I find God at the kitchen sink.....since we are going through such unbelievable stress regarding the flu issues, for each and every dirty dish that's put in the dishwaster or counters wiped spotless because of germs, I definitely thank God that He is there to comfort and leave the issues up to him as I say a prayer of gratitude that He is there!!!!! He reminds me to be thankful and grateful for health and the ability to keep cleanliness to a max and remembering to wash my hands zillions of times, but most of all, that He is God and Lord of all!

It makes me let Him fill my heart with joy and gratitude for depending on Him! God is there, trust me, and as I walk away from the kitchen and return to my office area, I have the tremendous gratitude to pick up my Bible and find a verse of comfort: Proverbs 16:1: "The preparations of the heart, the answer of the tongue, is from the Lord." He is there to comfort, give grace and mercy. Thank you God!

Make It A Good Day!

Regardless of the circumstances, please make it a good day! Begin a moment of gratefulness and end with appreciation! I just appreciate our awesome kids! Yesterday I made choc chip cookies for my hubby. I wish I could take some to all of you that have been such an encouragement!

All I can honestly say, Make it a good day! Be appreciative!!!!! : )

Being Joyful

My question is are we "being" joyful? Or are we just that....Joyful?

If you are purposed in your heart to be joyful, I believe it just comes out and you can't help it.

I have a small group of ladies that work at the Mall that want my assistance and depending on how things GO at home, I can expect to see joyful or non-joyful. We will all admit, the habit of non-joyful creeps in. I'll admit at times, I have been swept into my attitude which was joyful and became non-joyful. Like I say, we all admit it!

So the answer to being joyful is not being persuaded to let it grind at me...if I'm joyful, I'm joyful and would I have an influence on them becoming joyful? Yes, I believe I can; does it take work and more work? You bet....ladies that already have their mind made up are definitely harder to reach, but I would think the moral to this story would be JUST BE JOYFUL and enjoy the hug at the end because they'll remember how the joyfulness rubbed off. And that's my take on being joyful....trust me it takes work to be joyful, but it pleases God and that is what really counts!

Never Give Up!

No matter what comes your way, you can make it become a pathway to destiny. Just don't give up!

Endure.

Your faith is dependent upon your ability to trust.

Your level of trust is determined by your relationships with Christ and others.

It takes faith to walk through a struggle than to be delivered from it.

Just keep on trusting His everloving care!

My prayer journal is getting caught up & you are in it!!! Thank the Lord for each one of you!

God's Wisdom

I wonder. Do we really let God in?

I've been giving that a lot of thought and came to the conclusion that is the WISDOM we get when we need answers and for vision!

Knowledge comes from study, but wisdom comes from God. Everyone one of us needs more of God's wisdom, I think. Not to sound preachy, but James 1:5 says "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to her. It's the destiny for our life!

Wisdom is the comprehensive, all inclusive insight into the ways and purposes of God.

My prayers, my love and may God bless all of you that read my blog with His wisdom today!

Live A Balanced Life

Balance is a learning process. We each have to learn to live in balance.

The beginning of what comes with learning is a recognition that we are triune beings-spirit, soul, and body.

The Spirit has a need for both taking in nourishment and giving out God's love.

The mind has a need for both tranquility and stimulation.

The body has a need for both rest and exercise. It took me a long time to learn this. I feel more balanced than I used to be. I hope your Saturday is just what you want and well balanced!

Apologize

Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.
Prov. 16:18

Be willing to say, I'm sorry."

Why is it so hard for a person to say "I'm sorry?"

Pride.....

We make all sorts of excuses; "He never says he's sorry so why should I say it!" It doesn't matter what the other person says or doesn't say. Say "I'm sorry" a thousand times if you need to.

Take the high road and pursue peace. If you have wronged someone, please make it right. That's a super great way to ruin a friendship.

I Peter 3:11 "Seek peace and pursue it." It keeps your attitude in tune!!!!

Let Love Reign!!!!!

Woohooo......I received lots of comments (I'm sure glad my 'puter is up and running....regarding yesterday's post!) No matter how much disappointment you've been through or bad stuff because of things beyond your control, you still have to be honest or as I call it "Go with Plan B!" We go from honesty to Plan B to Love!

Most of all let love reign! Keep the home fires burning; communicate, love, just keep love and happiness right before the eyes!!!! God promises us His mercy and grace at just the time we need it.

Honesty

I'm reading a book called "Games People Play." I can remember in College we had to read this book and some forty years later....people are still playing the same games! It's called retro. And honesty, they have no clue they are playing a game! Nor, do they have a clue that the individual receiving the "game" knows what is happening! If nothing else, it is comical. I know wives will love my take on this!

Honestly tells me that my husband will communicate who tries to win his friendship without me?

Honesty tells me there are those from even thirty-seven years ago that would love to know our daily activities.

Honestly tells me to love my enemies and keep a close watch on actions.

I encourage you to just be honest. People that play games can get into chaos! As my Mom used to teach us - the Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." In Christianity we call it "Reaping what you sow." I know I will get a lot of e-mails thanking me for this post, but my honesty and heart says "Write on Sista!!!" I love each one of you and thank God we still have the privilege of communicating!!!! Have a happy mid-weeker!!!!!

Be a part of true friendship and honesty.

Nourish Yourself

I call it "come to your senses."

Taking a bubble bath.......

Provides deep relaxation and space.

A lighted candle beside the tub, soothing background music, can all help to make us feel good.

This shows love to ourself.

Go ahead.

Nourish yourself TODAY!

Exceedingly Abundantly!!!!!

I'll spell out Ephesians 3:14-21 in a nutshell. Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory through Christ throughout all ages, world without end!

In the face of overwhelming pressures, remember to keep up activities that make you feel extra good. Like regular exercises, keeping our home in order, cleaning the bathrooms (ugh) and keeping up with devotionals and prayer journal! The pressure is miraculously transformed into relaxation...helps us to go into a mode that makes us fully rely on God.

Rely fully on God!

As a last resort, I finally ask God to help me overcome any obstacles I may be facing and be creative to ask Him for help to be exceedingly abundantly MORE in my decision making to keep those yucky overwhelming pressures off!!!!

Life is good when you're up on that mountain, so goes the song! Happy Friday!

Best Chef Ever!!!!

....and that would be?????

ME!!!

As I cheerfully planned the candlelight grilled steak dinner, for my hubby last night; and then comes the great moment....answering question "Is it cooked to your satisfaction, tender, and perfect for how YOU like it?" He commented that I'm top ranked chef now!!!

Okay, I'll proudly wear that title! He had the most happy look on his face as he ate that sirloin steak; grilled to perfection from his lovely wife!!! (Hey, ladies, it's okay to brag on ourselves...especially when they reek with bright shiney eyes, and all those lucious comments)....so I can only say, I was so taken by his wonderful compliments, I forgot to light the candle!

Also, the peas, mushroom, creamed with this Chef's masterpiece creamed gravy...he rant and raved over! I won all the way around! He totally loved the baked potato and cucumbers. Did I sleep well? I would say so and of course my fingers automatically went to "hurry up and blog about it!!!"

Try being the "Best Chef Ever" - I rank way up there and accepted the award most excitedly!!! Even our dog, Pixie had the most relaxed look and happiness as she saw us carrying on!!!

Does the Lord care about something as insignificant as getting the steak to perfection? He surely does and it is such a blessing to experience His love (& my hubby's love) in large and small ways. Help me, Lord, to always give you the praise and thanksgiving for gently reminding me to have a "Best Chef Ever" night for these two lovebirds!!!! : )

Keeping Spirits Up

I've found there are at least two ways to keep my spirits up and my heart cheerful, even in the face of the worst pressures of daily life. First of all, I WILL myself to thinking positively. I deliberately choose to concentrate on those things that are uplifting, and I push the negatives right out of my consciousness. Second, to reinforce my individual efforts, I try to spend a fair amount of time in the company of those who think positively, those who encourage me to stay buoyant and hopeful, no matter how gloomy things may seem. Top it off with Proverbs 17:19-24 and your spirits WILL be up as well as mine!!!!!

Forgiveness

I've had to forgive a lot of people to move forward..but what would you do if someone angrily blames you for something you didn't do ......knowingly led you on and dropped you flat on your face and always made you feel something was wrong with you??? I think I'm opening up a can of worms to a lot of couples that, I'm sure, live that way day to day.

It makes your trust in people be severely damaged and you doubt if you could ever trust again, let alone forgive. Hello...... so why don't you forgive? And what is the process of forgiveness??? Someone asks me, how do you arrive at compatibility in marriage? The key - forgiveness. (even as God in Christ as forgiven.) Eph. 5:1,2 It would take me all day to explain what I mean. Maybe in a quick summation...after forgiveness, we are ever ready to believe the best of each other. Our hopes are fadeless under all circumstances; we endure everything...our love never fails...it never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end. Just begin loving ALL over again. .....after BOTH forgive!

Bring 'em on!!!!

Encouragement! Where does encouragement come from? Definitely the Word! And in real life, the e-mails I get from alive, marvelous "friends" who really are friends and more friends! Bring 'em on! Our son gave me so many encouraging words that I wanted and needed to hear regarding communication with people. I am definitely a people person and it feels great to hear there are those out there that would be a definite encouragement....after all, who encouragers the encourager? Now I'm hoping God will bring 'em on! And I pray and hope I hear from quite a few who mean so very much to me. Yea for encouraging kids and grandkids....couldn't do without them! They bring a joyful smile to my face that will not fade for a l--o---n--g time!

There are sooo many things I passionately long to do in my life and with my life and for the others in my life. I pray your week will be encouraged by the gratefulness I have for you being a part of my life! Thanks!

The Think Tank...............random thoughts

While I was getting over the (ugh) bug...24/hr., that is.....I developed in my mind a Think Tank. You know, the wonders of what if's????? I would advise not to stay too long on that, but at the same time, it was fun thinking this and thinking that...so while it lasted, it feels good to be back to normal, as I call it, and instead of thinking something is....knowing that it really isn't...but I can honestly say it was encouraging to say the least. I'm a person who has to spend some time thinking. Unfortunately I'm one of those people who can get over things quickly. In other words, I don't carry a grudge. I do know people that purposely withhold their friendship and just wait to see how long it is before I contact them. And I will contact them. It makes me feel like I'm tackling the BIGGER picture and why spend time on something so minor.

One friend contacted me yesterday that I haven't had contact with for quite a while (not because of me...I promise) so I will answer her e-mail. People - you are missed when you don't keep in touch. With all the tremendous decisions we have to make regarding our retirement, it is amazing to hear from friends we know and have. So, thanks for the fact that as I spent time on "thinking" about you, how you are really doing, and how your family is...I will just let go, bring you before the throne of prayer and get on with my daily Bible reading which today is Titus 2:3-5. I'll think about embracing the 10 principles I have found in this great scripture as my priorities. Then, I will plan them into all my tomorrows! Yea!!!!

Becoming Women of Wisdom

How do you and I become women of wisdom? One day at a time. By practicing God's timeless principles of wisdom one day at a time you and I cultivate a life marked by wisdom. So, let the application of what you've learned from this blog regarding God's priorities for your life begin today...and extend for a lifetime!

(Prov. 31:10-31). Follow your priority plan! ....and stick to it!

My Blog Dream Was Born of the Spirit!

When I asked our son to put me in a blog three years ago; it was perfect timing. It has brought more joy and happiness in my life. I am grateful for the prayers given for me as I daily think of encouragement posts to all who have subscribed.

We don't encounter God in fantasy; we encounter God in real life.

Let go of the soulish fantasies in your heart so there is room for the dreams of God.

God's dreams for you are birthed in the realm of the Spirit of God. They are planted in your heart by the Holy Spirit, and they are nourished by His ministry in your life! wooohoo!!!

Self-Acceptance

I find that women need self-acceptance, not self-esteem. When their self-esteem comes into focus they act "high and mighty" and arrogant. Our culture calls to us that what we need is self-esteem, that all would be well if we just felt better about ourselves.That is a lie. We live on a broken panet. It is a disappointing place. Things wre never supposed to be like this. Marriage was meant to heal wounds, not deepen them. Since Eden we have been disappointed with ourselves. Life on this earth is hard. What do we do with our disappointment?

I encourage you to bring whatever it is about yourself that disappoints you to our loving God and let Him love you as you are right now. When God extends grace to you, you are ready to extend joy to ohers. God's love teaches us how to forgive. Let's turn our hearts now to those who have wounded us, accept yourself, and ask God for the grace to extend forgiveness. It's always a joy to help women on this subject, self-acceptance. And one in which their husband will thank me endlessly for the help given!

Healthy Relationships Part II

Cut unhealthy relaionships out of your life!

Trust God to help you recognize when a relationship is becoming detrimental to your business, your ministry, or the health of your family life. Trust God to give you courage to end the relationship, and then trust Him to give you broad enough shoulders and thick enough skin to take the criticism that you may face for ending the relationship.

It takes emotional energy to end a relationship, and if you cut every healthy relationship out of your life at one time, you are likely to be overwhelmed by the loss.

Look for real character in a relationship. If you have to d----r----a----w a compliment out of someone, trust me, they are not interested in you; in my situtation I feel it's just to get closer to my husband and that has been a blessing being married to a Pastor, and, trust me, he notices it also, so it does not make for a healthy situation.

Neither one of us would loose our identity to be a "Dad" or "Mom" to those when we were in the Pastorate - the fact is I heard someone say that once and I cringed because neither one of us liked it, believe you me! We were their Pastor and Pastor's Wife and now we have retired together (I have deep respect for his decision) and it's so easy to notice those who have other motives. Do those who think that not realize we have a son and daughter, and trust me, we both fulfill that role extremely nicely!

Happy Birthday, daughter-in-law! This is YOUR day and have a blast! Celebrate your super day!!!! yea!!!! Live it up!

Healthy Relationships Part I

Never loose your identity for another person's sake.

A healthy relationship is one in which there is balance. There is give and take and there is much mutual appreciation.....

and a building up of each other.

It is one in which honest words of appreciation are exchanged without hint of manipulation.

I have a devout friend and we always write "Humongous Hugs" on e-mails. She truly watches out for "her favorite Pastor" (which is my hubby, of course) and me! It gives me goosebumps to think of how caring she is! And I'm sure, in fact, she stands alone! I cannot find enough words of appreciation!

Meet A Need

Strive to associate yourself with people who are troubled by the troubles of others and who move to help them. The day will come when you need a friend who will show mercy and compassion toward you. Strive to be a person of mercy and compassion. Meet the needs of others, I feel, will put you in a position to receive what God has for you.

If a person is standing in the rain, give her your umbrella. Two days ago, I had the joy of helping a lady who truthfully had come to the end of her rope. All chemotherapy was done on her and the doctors said, "That's all we can do." Even though hospice was called in, she has now opted to cancel them and go back to work! All she needed was someone to believe what she was saying, but she made the decision. It seems helping people never ends. She changed right before my eyes!

I am in much appreciation for the many many have literally gone out of their way to be there for us and I truly beleive it equals out in the fact that we helped them. God keeps the record, we keep a grateful heart, and joy makes us feel proud!

Pour It On!

I'm wired for love which is the most encouraging word in our vocabulary. I've seen where women "withhold" their love from their hubby and miss out on the BEST love! Bring it on, I say!!! My hubby and I are on the same page on that issue!!!! I am so grateful and appreciative!

Be real.

We both LOVE retirement; great decisions, powerful communication, remarkable talent, super top notch chef(s) when we both head for the kitchen to cook at EXACTLY the same time! Teens have nothing on us....we are cool with this retirement!

Let Me Remember. . . .

People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.

Closure begins by telling the truth about what I feel.

I am entitled to honor what I feel.

When one door closes, another door opens.

Whatever you repress will become stress.

Yesterday I was able to bring CLOSURE on a person who called just to find out information that I was not ready to share; perhaps maybe because of trust. So,
she found out from someone else who readily shares things with no thought or respect of us!

I'm enjoying retirement. I'm really seeing how loving people really are!

You Are Awesome!

You are not a product of what has happened to you or what other people have said about you.

You are the sum total of what is in you and Who is in you.

"Doing My Blog"

Since day one when our Son put in my blog which has been three years ago, the qwestion "Are you still doing your blog?"comes my way. Absolutely! Since my gift is encouragement, I get encouragement from so many who read it! No, I'm not bragging on myself, I just want to say I appreciate your remarkable encouragement. Who encourages the encourager? In a true sense of the word, God does, but ladies or guys who send me e-mails (& don't have the courage to broadcast a comment..and that's okay) send me raving e-mails of which I am so grateful. So, if you "do a blog" please don't give up. Keep your mind healthy, happy, trustworthy, and kind to others!

Enjoyable! Take On Garage Sales

Labor Day was enjoyable! Had a great garage sale...neighbors and friends came out of the woodwork! All 28 years we've lived here...wow! Hadn't seen some of them for what I call humpteen years! Getting rid of stuff actually ended up fun! Met a couple who are what I call the most wonderful family! They had two small kids and 2 miniature chihuahuas and I told our daughter I'd love to join a chihuahua club...it seems to me that people who own those breed of dogs are so loving and kind. Would you believe one of the dogs came to me! Most usually they shy away from me...I couldn't get over it! I've never seen such a dog that does his/her thing and gets by with it. But the family was so tremendously helpful....they purchased the last minute stuff and even carried the tables in. My hubby couldn't get over it! We had a great day and trust me it was hot! One more thing...I'm not sure people really realize that people who are 86 or thereabout are very lonely people. They all came out just to sit in the chair by me and yack! Oh well, some day I'll be that age twenty years from now, so I didn't mind them coming back a few times to get attention. What got to me was the perfume they put on and stood in front of the fan. I am highly allergic to perfume, so I had to politely say, please don't stand in front of the fam with your strong perfume, I can't breathe. They didn't get offended, so that was good.

Have you ever had a garage sale? I don't really think I'll feel the results of it until tomorrow! (Soreness.) : ( And did you know, there are more men that come to garage sales than women? That was interesting! Looking for retro stuff and of course we had plenty of it! Hey, enjoy your Tuesday as everyone gets back in the swing of things! And....just thought I'd share some personal stuff this morning how enjoyable my Labor Day was!

A Question Of Fairness

Let's face it, something can be absolutely unfair and true at the same time. We don't determine what is true based on whether or not it is fair. What it is true that little Sally received a C, it was certainly not fair. And while the umpire's call may have been unfair, it sure enough happened.

Obvious as that may be, I have talked to many people who flippantly cast aside the claims of Christ because they deemed unfair. Essentially what they are saying is "Christianity is unfair; therefore I don't believe it is true." Life is not fair. Life will never be fair. Life can't be fair. I am a person who believes fairness is the most important a human being should be treated! However, we rarely expend more emotion demanding fairness when we get more than we deserve. I don't know how you explain the evil and unfairness in the world. But I know one thing, it makes me angry when one person is treated one way and the other is another when they are going by the same rules. For instance, in all the years my husband and I have been married, I constantly see people treat him completely different than me and they think I don't see it. I would be a moran if I didn't! I don't know how you account for bad things happening to good people. I find it in my heart to forgive that person that treats us differently and would to me a question of unfairness.

I believe Christianity offers both an explanation and a solution. The explanation is that when Adam and Eve sinned, life became irreversibly unfair. The solution is......well, putting faith in God and believing that which is fair so that we are forgiven people for all our unfairness to assure us that at the end of life, we trusted the God who makes everything fair for us. Placing faith in Christ makes it fair for all of us to become Christians and prepare us for eternity! I know I have done this, (accepted Christ's fairness and believing that HE is the one that died on the cross for our unfairness) and I hope you have. Have a peaceful, restful Sunday!

Strength!!!!

Our strength comes from God - it's not something we work up in ourselves.

We can do ALL things through Christ.

It is God's strength poured into us and working through us that enables us to overcome, to persevere, and to be STRONG.

We come to STRENGTH by resting in Him! Just give it to Him!!!

Pursue the Dream God has Put In Your Life

Instead of accepting the limits that have been placed on you (including the limits you have placed on yourself) challenge the system and pursue your passion!

Happy Labor Day....enjoy your day off!

People Who Lie

My encouragement is just tell the truth. I don't usually have negative writings on my blog, but I've had so many lies thrown at me lately, I want to share my thoughts. I don't mean to be on a soapbox, but even a small white lie is aggravating.

On the other hand, why do people lie?

The truth sets you free.

I agree Society dictates that it's better to lie than tell the truth. In the world of women that I work with, most of them tell me the reason they lie is that their husband wouldn't believe them if they told the truth. You can't change his mind. You can only tell the truth. It could become a vicious circle because what if both are not telling the truth?

If you don't keep a promise with someone, is that a lie?

What about the person who said they'd call or get in touch with you and they don't; is that a lie?

What constitutes a lie?

I would go so far as to say if a person doesn't look at you in the straight eyeball to eyeball, that's a lie to me. I would a lot rather someone just tell me the truth. If they say they will call me back and don't; I begin to lose faith in them and their word doesn't count. It's tough to work with ladies whom I know are telling me a lie. Am I judging? No, because I kept my word and to give as an example, they didn't keep their word. No excuse will do. That's tough, but I believe that eventually you would just not have any contact whatsoever with the person who lies. What about you? Does it irritate you as much as it does me? I know I will get e-mail responses....bring 'em on. I value your comments!

Remember to Pray

Several times I have been invited to share in an unusual form of prayer groups. Group membes commit to pray for a particular time for a specific things. What binds us together is the commitment to pray as one voice, at that time. Knowing someone is praying for me, even when that person is far away, means I am not alone. I truly believe Jesus felt the prayers of people and admonished them not to stop praying. (Mark 14:38).

When we commit to pray for someone or about something, we make an important promise. Following through on our commitment gives others gentle, flowing support that is "powerful and effective."

Help us to tell others when we are praying for them and keep our commitment.

Praying with others is a reminder that none of us is ever alone! I'm praying for you today, for your welfare and needs to be supplied. I request prayer for myself and am appreciative that you will remember to pray for our needs to be met.

Awesome Roses!!!

A devout friend of mine just recently gave me four stunning roses for my birthday. Have you ever stood still, looked into the head of a rose, and marveled at its beauty? Days before, such beautiful rose was small tight bud. Who could imagine that within a few days this would become a beauty so large it seemed impossible that it ever fit into that bud? What's more the rose can overwhelm with the pleasure of its exquisite fragrance.

Becoming a Christian is like this. Without Christ, we are limited and small, but once we have been united with Christ, we unfold and expand like that rose. In Christ, we can become full and rich in compassion, spreading the fragrance of love.

Encouragement Re: Choices

The willingness to make conscious choices is another way of demonstrating that you are ready to find new ways of living and being before you are FORCED to do it. When what we do, how we do it, and the way we do it no longer fits our purpose in life, we must choose to do something else. It means we are aware of our patterns, and no longer choose to embrace them. This becomes the choice to grow. When we consciously choose growth over stagnation and fear, the new choice decision will support our decision by bringing our lesson gently and lovingly.

You must make a choice to know the truth; the truth about your strength, your power, and your ability to withstand the consequences of your choices; makes it easier, because once you choose and see that things are getting a bit out of hand, or that you are in fact not ready, you have the ability, right, and power to make another choice. At the same time, stick to the truth (real facts) when you are making a choice. Weigh the pros and cons. That's my newest goal in making choices..pros and cons; believe you me it works!!!!

So Closely Connected in Marriage

Those of you that have the privilege of being married, did you ever wonder how close you really are to each other? My husband is definitely a LEADER.... several of my friends have asked me lately why I don't blog about marriage. I don't know the answer to that question. I just don't. We have what I call a "Private Marriage" having been in the public eye for thirty-eight years! Retirement brings connection even more closely than you could ever think or imagine. You are forced to discuss things whether you want to or not. He sees me all the time and I see him. In that regard, I truly love it! And yet, we let go....meaning he can do what he wants to do and the same with me.

Last night we had a great time with some friends of our's that have been married the same amount of years (42) and we noted with interest, they have the same goals...that was very interesting and we came to the same conclusion, don't interupt when wife or hubby is telling a story. So, that was cool!

Now, tonight we will be having a super great time with a couple who are awesome, so I am thrilled we are "stepping out of the box" - the normal seeming like rut of things, so life is good in the Donnelson household. A love that will not ever walk away and gets closer each day. Quality time, words of affirmation, acts of service, physical touch; the joy of being able to express our love and feeling truly loved in return. He shows so much love to me in so many ways.

Many of us married are trained to analyze prolems and create solutions. We forget that marriage is a relationship, not a project to be completed or a problem to solve. One way to learn new patterns is to establish a daily sharing time in which each of you will talk about things - what's happening to you and how you feel about them. Yes, ladies...men have feelings...and are emotional....make a choice to show your love and admiration (& I might add gratitude) but most of all, TRUST and you will be closely connected in marriage.

Devote Your Time To Developing Yourself

Don't invest in what fades. Invest in what lasts all through life and on into eternity! God doesn't want emotional nuclear waste inside you to spew out of you and contaminate others around you. He doesn't want hatred, anger, bitterness, or criticism flowing out of you. He wants the inside of you to be a "river of living water" flowing out to send life and refreshment to others.

Our daughter gave of so much while she was here to us. I cannot thank her enough. And yet if you were to ask her, she would say, we were the ones that gave so much spirit, etc. Have you ever been around someone that makes you feel like you are the greatest person that ever existed on the face of the earth? That's her. She is always concerned about her Dad and I and what makes us happy. I know she has her own phenomenal life to live, but I know, without a shadow of doubt, we are more motivated than we ever were while she was here. She was such a refreshment. And that's why I'm writing about devoting time to developing "your-self." That's what I feel like doing when we go our separate ways....take care of self so I can live a healthy life, being so grateful I am a Mom, Wife, Grandma, Friend...... all the important roles!!!! Life is so full of joyous living; especially when you are around someone who wants your dreams so accomplished. I just had to blog my feelings and her uniqueness - something inside of me said "Go for it!" ...an extraordinary hip hip hooray! ....a-ha I have bragging rights as a Mom and so do you ladies!!!!

Are You Genuine?

Many people falsely market themselves - especially being not genuine. They sell themselves as beautiful, quiet, meek, and laid back. Then two years into the marriage they have an "in your face" attitude. Questions like how does he or she treat people they don't need in their life? What does she value? What does he value?

So many people end up falling for the exterior packaging and don't pay enough attention to the gift inside. Spending years, decades, even lifetimes trying to change the person they married on the inside --- but guess what???? You cannot change a person, that's God's job!!!

The genuine person is not the outside package but the treasure, gifting, and value that lies within! Go for being genuine!!! The truth will come out sooner or later.

Let Go Of The Past!!!!

Is your past something that you want to continue to relive again and again?

You cannot enter your tomorrow as long as you hold on to your past.

Leaving the past behind does not mean that we only leave the negative aspects of the past behind. For some people, the struggle is in leaving behind a past they perceive to be better than their present.

There are some people who have trouble letting go of past success. Or they create a fantasized past and dwell in a set of false memories.

The past - no matter what it is - needs to be left in the past!

Just let it go......it's not worth the worry, fret, and you can't do anything about it, but FORGIVE!!!!!! Forgive the event, the person, and most of all SELF!

I hope this has encouraged ladies who really have this problem, because their husband prays and hopes they will let go of the past; whether it be his fault or her fault.

Be a Praiser, not a Complainer!!!

These days are flying by!! Agree??? I know it's because our beloved, amazing daughter is here and we charish every moment spent with her. We do not take it for granted even when we see our Son, Daughter-in-law and Grandkiddos or our Daughter!!! Believe you me, it brings such enjoyment and remarkable super great times!

I've noticed such great character our kids have because they are not complainers! So, today I am writing about this subject. Complaining is a trap. Complainers never rise above or move beyond those things that are a focus of their complaint. I know that it why I love being around both our kids...they are praisers....When praise happens we all raise above any adversity...raising eyes from the problem to the Problem Solver. When you praise, you get your eyes off what is wrong and on the goal of what can be right. When you praise, you get your focus off the adversity and on the great blessings that God has ahead for you. Genuine character. Love, love, love it! It takes work to praise....take the energy and time to live a life fully of non-complaining. It gets you nowhere! Hey - enjoy your Wednesday!!!!

The Party's Over..........

No blog.

Recouping from Birthday!!!! Every thing's a party for me...so with the excitement and happiness I felt, I am finally back to blogging which is my utmost passion!!!!

Imagine that a movie was made of your life. Nothing is left out. Everything you have ever done, thought or imagined is there for all to see. The indiscretions youth, the poor choices in relationships, words spoken in anger, the secret habits that are so hard to fun from and so shaming in the daylight are exposed for anyone who wants to take a look.

How would you feel?

Would you want to run and hide?

If you knew that everyone in your circle had seen your movie would you still show up for dinner?

And yet deep within all of us is a desire to be known. To be known and to be loved.

Are you loved and accepted? If my movie was shown to those I love and whose respect I treasure, surely would they think less of me? Some people would say, I haven't seen your movie. The most important thing in the world is that God has seen your movie and He loves you! Please read Psalm 139:1-6 Welcome to the outrageous LOVE OF GOD! I pass my happiness on to you.......be loved and feel loved...it's there! I felt it from tremendously from family and friends for rock-solid three days and I know it's there! Whoopee!!!!

Birthdays on 21st of August!!!

Count Basie, Princess Margaret Rose (Queen Elizabeth's II's Sister)
Kenny Rogers

Events on August 21, 1943: Roosevelt and Churchill meet in Casablanca to map war strategy. Hawaii became the 50th state. Philippine opposition leader is shot and killed as he steps off a plane in Manila. Jimmy Durante insured nose or $50,000. Oklahoma opened on Broadway. First Tom & Jerry cartoons came out.

In the Oval Office: President Franklin Roosevelt, VP Henry Wallace

Price of gasoline, 21 cents a gallon. Bread, 09 cents a loaf; milk 1 gallon 62 cents. First class postage stamp .03 cents...women in the work force 29% and a three bedroom home, $3,600. Average income $2.65 an hour.

Today I'm wearing the garb of gratitude for great health, happiness, and believe this: Only she is old who ceases to dream. It is time to dream again!

My Sweet Day!!!!!

The big day......my birthday tomorrow. Am I excited? Yes!!! I love birthdays!

Pleas'd to look forward, pleas'd to look behind; counting each birthday.....with a GRATEFUl mind!

I believe a birthday is a bridge that connects our past and our present, a time for evaluation and reflection. It is a time to rejoice with family and friends, to be told in a variety of ways that our lives matter to those around us. In the midst of the warm hearts that surround us in body or spirit, we realize again that we do not need more things, but we do need people to make our lives complete!

Truly, God gives us righly all things to enjoy! I am so grateful!

Preparing Yourself!

How come women are always wanting to "fix" their husband and not their self?

Hmmmm. You can't prepare yourself in a day. You must prepare yourself every day....key word "yourself"...... day after day.... after day after day....for the rest of your days!

The process of preparation is just that - a process. The journey in this life is just as important as the destination. God does not refine you, train you, transform you, or renew you instantly. He puts you through a process. This process requires patience. It requires a steadfastness and a faithfulness. It requires ongoing trust and obedience!

I believe if we keep our minds stayed in preparing for the battle that is beset before us each day is enough to keep us busy. There are so many hurting people who need love, encouragement, and kindness shown, instead of being shoved aside and left to not ever feel the happiness we could pass on inside of us for the joy we have from knowing a Savior who has given us so much! Yesterday I was talking with a lady who said all she has is work and hitting the bed; work and hitting the bed; etc. same rut every single day. I said, "Prepare yourself to change it!" I can't wait to talk to her today and she if she took one day to change it and if she "gets a life" - then let me know and from there she begins a change and it won't be easy at first, but the steadfastness and faithfulness will give her the confidence she needs to stop the hurting she is feeling.

I am thrilled to be able to help her. And I know she will experience joy unspeakable as she prepares herself on a different course, different pace, instead of running from the real problem, facing it and have oh such wonderful peace! Enjoy your Wednesday!!!!

Managing Time!

Oh wow! That sounds so easy and like fun!

Time cannot be bought or rented.
Time cannot be saved - you cannot store, freeze, or can time.

Time cannot be manufactured.
Time expands before your baby arrives and contracts after the delivery.

Time is slower for your children than for you.

The issue is really life - not time. We need to better manage our time and I call it Learn to prioritize........1. God 2. Husband 3. Children 4. Self 5. Family & Friends 6. Work and last but not least, Time for the unexpected! Titus 2:3-5

I hope this has been encouraging....I know it encourages me! Also, read Solomon's wise observations on time Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 and redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16 Make it a good Tuesday!!!! : )

Accept Dignity And Value You Have

Has a label been put on your life?

Incapable? Inferior? Failure? People are labelled all the time!

But the Bible is higher than any natural or man-made law. It tells you who you are and what you can do and what you can have!

God says "He will never leave us nor forske us." Hang on to that promise. Even if you are doing very difficult tasks....remember keep your dignity high and value yourself as being very confident in what you are tasking....I love to research -- most people would not label me as a researcher....but I have the patience, intelligence and a way to find the answer in a right way before I go goofing off and mess things up. I value my brilliancy to do that and I know I'm great at it!

I will be researching some information that will be of tremendous value to me and my hubby! And don't even worrry one bit about me, because I know I can do it! I value my wisdom and feel very challenged to find out what's right!!!! I know I am very successful in the area of research! Yea God on that one!!!! He gives me confidence, plus I value what our kids say and they say go Mom (as well as hubby)...yea!!! I can do this! I'll post about it at a later date! All I need is your prayers. Have a happy Monday!

Facing Giants!

At times I am eager to reach a goal but afraid to face the "giants." We all face giants such as financial difficulties, temptations of the flesh, and selfish desires. One of my scariest giants appeared when my husband decided to "retire." That means a possible move, a change in many things, and just a lot of decisions to make. I have found, though, that the abundant love of family and friends who have helped us get closer to decisions, is helping to dispel doubts and has given us strength to face and conquer our giants so that we can serve more fully!

I've never been a selfish person; my life exists on OTHERS...so to constantly have a "what about me?" attitude makes me feel like a giant is there saying "You can't do this...what are you thinking about?" Doubt, doubt, doubt! But, the greatest thing is I don't live my life on doubt but on trust and confidence that I serve a GREAT God who can give me a mind set of not letting the giants get in the way! Yea!!!!

An encouraging thought is God gives us the strength to conquer our fears and our giants! (Numbers 13:28) so never fear, He will remove all giant doubts and give us understanding and victory as we still make the "what's next?" decisions.

A New Fish!!!! Also, Prayer......Communication with God

Okay - this is way earlier than usual, but I got up to get a drink of water and walked by the acquarium and my fish had her babies!!!! So, of course, I'm staying up to watch the cutest snow white fish you ever saw! Awe....how cool is that. Now I cannot wait for hubby to get up and see! How sweet it is!!!!

I hope you all got to watch the Neil Diamond NYC concert last night on TV! Awesome, awesome, awesome! Back in our days dating, we fell in love watching or listening to this dynamite singer!!! Yippee...still sings so wonderfully! He was raised in New York and gave his background story. My hubby has every single song he sang on his recording equipment! Wow!

I also have encouraging thoughts on Prayer today:

Prayer: What I like about prayer is that it is a means of communication with God. You can speak to Him any time, night or morning, and you can know with certainty that He is listening to you!

There is no set formula for calling up to God and just say "hello," you can ask for something. You can tell Him that things are going rough and you need reinforcements! You can also call him and thank Him for the things He has done for you. You can tell Him you are baffled, bewildered, discouraged or that you are the happiest person in the world!

For me, in personal living, in fulfilling our place in the world, prayer is the hub that holds the wheel together. Without our contact with God we are nothing. With it we are "a little lower than the angels, crowned with glory and honor!" Enjoy your day!

Discover Your Dream

No one can define your dream but you. God gives your dream to you alone.

One of the greatest gifts you have in your life is the ability to see beyond your present state - to dream.

As long as you are alive, you do have a dream. You might not label it as such, but there is a dream within you. My dream was always to get married and have one of each, a girl and a guy and that we did. From the very second our Son was born, I began praying for a Daughter and viola.....my dream came true!!! It's all about God's great purposes and plans. Just think of the lives that have been touched as I fulfilled the destiny He had designed for me with adding to.....a Son and a Daughter, and now that has multiplied with two a precious Granddaughter and Grandson!

Should we always have a dream? Yes, most definitely! I'm working on my dream right now. If you want to see it, go see the movie Julia/Julia. The actress who kept cooking the food for the American Julia Child recipies is me......When my husband and I first married, I worried oh good grief am I going to be a great cook, because I never had any training whatsover on that! Now, he says not only am I the greatest cook in the world, but I need to write a cookbook on all I know about cooking. We recently (together) fixed our kitchen "User Friendly" - after being married 42 years....I had all my gourmet cooking electric appliances besides tucked away - out of sight, out of mind. Now I have them all in sight and we have had the greatest time using them!!!! So, if you should come to our home, you'll get some awesome food, cooked by the person who has had a 42-year dream; to please whomever is eating it and ENJOY a great meal, but I still have my dream after all these years.

My husband constantly raves about my being the greatest cook in America, so I think I'll keep this dream alive and working!!! How about you? What's your dream? I'd love to hear it! By the way, the actress in the movie was an avid blogger with no comments.....a-ha, if that isn't me...what is? Oh well, have a super Friday!!!!!

Definite Encouraging Thoughts

The story is told about a Psychology 101 Class that had an assignment. The assignment was to start a Compliment Club. Every day they were to pay an honest compliment to each of three different persons. They could increase that number if they wished, but to qualify for a class grade, it had to be 3. Then at the end of the 30 days they were to write a theme paper on this experiment.

Some students totally resisted this assignment. Some complained that they wouldn't know what to say. Others were afraid of being rejected. And a few thought it would be dishonest to compliment someone they didn't like. "Suppose you meet somebody you dislike, wouldn't it be insincere to praise your enemy?"

No it is not insincerity when you compliment your enemy - nobody is entirely devoid of merit or virtue. Your praise may raise the morale of lonely souls who are almost ready to give up the struggle of good deeds. You never know when your casual compliment may catch a person at the critical point when he or she would otherwise toss in the sponge!

I call it the Elevator Principle - we can lift people up or take people down in our relationships. This makes us proactive. The world is starving for appreciation and hungry for compliments. But somebody MUST start the ball rolling by speaking first and say a nice thing to someone. The Bible says "We must account for every idle word." Wouldn't you just love to make someone's day today? I sure would.

You will find as you look back upon your life that the moments when you have really lived, are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love!

How To Get Your Husband To Talk To You

I had a lady text, call on phone, e-mail me, and put it on her Facebook - "Carol, how do I get my husband to talk to me?"

Frame what you are saying within musculine interest area he has.

Respond proactively to what your husband shares - pomoting more sharing!

If he comes home and says "I had a horrible day at work." He just told you! So, don't say "Tell me about it." Don't push him for details. His is short and sweet....but as ladies....our's is drawn out.

Remember: Men and women communicate differently! + there has to be a lot of trust! (Both ways) Question is: Can you be trusted with his feelings?

Men express love by doing. Gen. 2:8-15....it started with Adam.....

P.S. Clue #1: Please give him processing time. This requires patience! When he begins talking, L-I-S-T-E-N....that's a definite MUST! Come on - I know you can do it! It takes practice, lots of love, and understanding! In a marriage, communicate rocks! If you want a rock-solid marriage, you have to commit yourself to not being a nag or stirring up arguments. Come on. I know you can do it, so he'll talk if you just become interested in what he has to say! Blessings as you get him to talk! I know you can!

801 Post - Here We Go!

Okay - I'm wound up today....God gave me an excellent night's sleep and yes, I do encourage Facebook to a certain extent,,,,,,,but do Jr. High Pics of ladies who are awesome lovely now, have to be posted on there? Now, I know why Moms aren't always accepted as a friend (on Facebook, that is and that's okay with me). They have the pics (I think). Maybe it's for fun...guess I'm more of an up-to-date Mom. There's nothing one can do about the past, so if the pics are what they are, nothing can change it. But, I don't agree in posting pics of especially Jr. High pics. Maybe because mine are weird. My freckles stand out like a sore thumb....I look hidious....sorry, it was not a great time in my life. But, if anyone wants to post current pics, yep that would be extremely acceptable!

So, that's my take - and I have to share my heart in defense of lovely ladies who have attended my W.O.W. class and yep, I know it is somewhat fun for someone to do that, it would humiliate me! As a note of encouragement today....just remember to look in the mirror and see God's wonderful handiwork how gorgeous you are today and what has become a beautiful wife and Mom and devout friend to so many. Look on the bright and happy side, because YOU DESERVE this awesome compliment!

800th POST!!! WOOHOO!!!

That's a lot of brainpower!!!!...and encouragement!

Today I want to encourage all ladies who endure suffering.

1. Keep a prayer record (or journal) and become aware of when you write the request, pray and leave it there.
2. Refrain from making too many crucial commitments or decisions during the time that you know is the worse suffering.
3. Try not to get behind in daily chores.
4. Avoid brooding over problems in self-pity sessions...unless both are venting.
5. Make a list of special small acts of love and kindness toward your husband and family which you can do during this time.
6. When you feel the suffering is over, thank God that it taught you to hang in there and you fully relied on Him!

The Bible says "Suffering will only be .... for a while ....." Find things to
give you a mind change, so you won't always feel like you suffer endlessly. Recently I did too much yard work and suffered with sore muscles. It seemed an eternity that my body would get back in normal shape...maybe a day or two, but trust me...my list of irritations kept getting longer and longer. I took a dose of Prov. 3:5-6....trust in the Lord....not me to heal, but Him! It will probably happen again, but this time I have a plan to keep dis......couragement....away and encouragement in the Word to get me through! Happy Monday!!!!! I know you will have a great Monday!

Rise Up And Praise Him!

I love that song! Rise up and praise Him! Being the Worship Leader, I loved it when that song was on the program! How about you? Because I know on Sunday is HIS DAY and we must find a way to praise Him for all the marvelous answers to prayers and blessings He gives us.. Remarkable!!! We are trusting His love, mercy, and grace to remain in His will!

He gives us our personal power to truly live for Him. And this is a great Lord's Day to do just that! Praise Him for all his bountiful blessings and His great love for each one of us that we will succeed in all things!

Let this day be a blessing to all!! Give Him all the glory!!!! (& praise!!)

Trouble

Trouble is an incubator for greatness!

The Lord knew exactly the pressure you need to get you to the place you are.

He knows the pressure it will take for you to birth what He has for you in your future.

He knows exactly what forces need to come against you and how to deliver you from them, so that by your coming up against those forces and experiencing God's super power, you are strengthened for what lies ahead.

It is the presssure you have experienced that pushes you into God's power and that my dear friend, will make you great!

I'm so happy my 'puter is back up....yea!! Thanks for all your prayers!

My Favorite Subject Regarding Love

Everyone's read my blogs....they know my favorite subject is LOVE. Besides your relationship with the Lord, the most important relationship you can have is your relationship with guess who??? Yourself. What you believe about yourself and the way you tret yourself will determine what you believe about others and the way you treat them!

Begin to celebrate yourself. When I worked with the ladies at church I would say "Have a Geneva Day" and that meant go out and celebrate yourself...buy yourself something even if it's ten cents! And do exactly what you want to do....only you want...what you enjoy. Only you know how far you have come to be the "you" that you are!!!

We love people to the degree that we love ourselves!

Embrace Your God-Given Strengths!

Don't let anyone make you but God. Don't let the world put you in its cookie-cutter mold. If you give into the way the world defines you, you will miss out on y our unique qualities - the very qualities that make you valuable. What makes an antique or an artifact valuable? The fact that it is rare and distinct!

If God made you beautiful, use your beauty.

If God made you brainy, work your brain.

If God made y ou a computer genius, then work behind the computer to the glory of God!

If God made you a "natural" at business, then make a billion dollars to further of the kingdom of God!

BUILT ON WHAT GOD HAS GIVEN YOU - GREAT STRENGTHS!!!!!
(....from W.O.W. Carol's teaching Women of Worth Class @ Lighthouse Church : )

Anger Emotion (continued from 7/31.....)

WE all know that Alexander the Great conquered the world. But what few people know is that this mighty general could not conquer himself! Cletus, a dear friend of Alexander's and a general in his army, became intoxicated and ridiculed the emperor in front of his men. Blinded by anger, Alexander snatched a spear from the hand of a solder and hurled it at Cletus. The spear took the life of his childhood friend. Deep remorse followed his anger; overcome with guilt, he tried to take his own life with the same spear, but he was stopped by his men.

When resentments, frustrations, hurt feelings, and simple fatigue accumulate, we explode. Is there actually a time to get good and angry? Paul (the Apostle in Acts) reminds us "Be angry and sin not...." "Do not let the sun go down on your anger...." Ephesians 4:26-27.

There's uncontrolled anger...it stifles your spiritual growth. We had a couple in one of our churches we Pastored who didn't want the church to grow - they were angry every time someone new came into the picture. They wanted deliverance because they wanted to be spared the embarrassment of jealousy. Angry at life itself, or someone getting close to the Pastor. That would be uncontrolled anger that gives place to Satan. (Causes irrational behavior).

1. Admit anger
2. Don't clam up.
3. Pray to God and ask for forgiveness that you lost control; confess to God that you pointed to tension and ask God to help you to grow away from anger but to forgive and forget.
4. Please don't carry a grudge....it will eat you alive! Admit being angered and ask for forgiveness. Clear the air. Anger and not resolved will cause you to become bitter, hostile, and will cause sickness if sizzles too long! Confess, and ask forgiveness and clear the air. Honestly, no one wants to be around an angry person; so I encourage you to say "I was wrong in getting so angry with you...it wasn't right, so please forgive me." Happy Lord's Day and serve Him and give Him the glory!!!

Changing Subject Today

I'll get back to the Managing Your Emotions real soon....I'm changing subjects today to a "lighter" choice.

The subject is LOVE. I have found that to love is to be loved. Love is my decision to make your problem my concern. And if you love someone, you definitely care about them! How many of us share that love? With our husband, our family, our friends, our animals?

Spread a little love around......today! I Cor. 13 is a great chapter to live regarding the love subject! Just show your love! Live it!!!!

Emotional Stability

This is a subject on managing your emotions. I was with a lady yesterday who tried to convince me it couldn't be done! I'm here to tell you, it can!!!! Get your cup of coffee and take some time to digest what I have to say:

God created us with emotions so that we might be able to enjoy Him and His creation. Often we have been tempted to consider our feelings as a bother, a hindrance to living a life of faith. I believe God gave us emotions so that we might live a well-balanced and wholesome life. After all, God Himself is an emotional being who expressed anger, pleasure, and compassion. Our goal, then, ought not to be to support our emotions, but rather to achieve emotional wholeness through finding God's answers to our emotional needs. Take for instance the emotion of sorrow. A loss.....we have to learn to COPE. So many women have the impression that their emotions are an embarrassment...an unwanted appendage.

We can benefit from negative emotions. Husbands have often developed insensitivity toward their wives by simply repeating what they have heard in church - that your feelings should be rejected. YET THOSE FEELINGS ARE IMPORTANT. They are a part of our total being.

I've known angry people who deny their anger; they are unable to admit such feelings. Others deny hostility, bitterness, or sorrow, thinking that Christians should not have such feelings; they insist that they are free from them. The result is that deep feelings often smolder beneath the surface of their personalities. I am convinced that emotional wholeness cannot be achieved through denying the deep emotions that we all have. (Including men and women!!!)

There is a drug for virtually every physical pain, every emotional disturbance. If you feel down, take "uppers," if you're emotionally excitable, take "downers"...but at all costs, feel good!!! Society dictates....if you have a sexual urge, fulfill it, if you have anger, express it, if you feel tied down, walk away from your responsibilities. At any rate, it's your life and you're number one, so do as you please.

The biblical balance would be to admit to ourselves and to God how we feel (someetimes we should admit our feelings to others too) and ask ourselves: Why do I feel the way I do? The past must be forgiven by God and we must be cleansed from its influence.

Joy is an emotional stability for me - it comes as a result of Christ rule instead of self-rule (in other words Christ is completely in charge) ....Galatians 5:22-23 - these are qualities that the Holy Spirit wants to form in us AS WE OBEY GOD'S WORD. Christ obeyed as He went to the Cross although He (in the flesh) did not want to. He obeyed though He didn't feel like it; the feelings came later. We can't expect a life without emotional turbulence, but there can be emotional healing; as the Spirit can work even amid our ups and downs. God wans us to manage our emotions. He's assured us that they need not manage us.

I've seen a lot of women who get stuck on the angry emotion and they don't think anyone can see it....I'll blog on that tomorrow....like a teapot....starts boiling slowly and ends up really boiling and they are stuck in the "I don't want to talk about it" mode.....a good ole communication of venting would be most helpful....because I believe it just festers and makes anyone around that person miserable. Wear the "joy" emotion just one day and I mean really wear it with your attitude and you will see a change and love it!!!! Have a joyful Friday!!!
Remember: Women are emotional and men are "fixers." Embrace emotional stability....yea and be thankful....who wants to be a dull, almost statue lady who shows ZERO emotional and no one wants to be around that person!!!! I know I won't ever be that dull!!!!

What Would You Call A Friend?

I would say a friend is someone who keeps in touch and reciprocates -- for instance, instead of you having to contact them, they contact you to see how it is and basically cares.

Truthful

Trustworthy

Happy for your answers to prayer!!!!

Real; not phoney

Encouraging

Friends sharpen the mind of each other.

What amazes me; I have well over one hundred people who want to be my friend on Facebook, but I never hear from them. That concerns me.

Prov. 27:17 says Iron sharpens iron....friends sharpen each other and are happy for great things that happen to them.

Have a blessed Thursday -- God has blessed me to give the encouragement I need to give and I know I will have a blessed day! I'm up early because a friend invited me to an early breakfast....now that's a friend, knowing I dearly love mornings and usually get up at the crack of dawn! : )

Grab Hold Of Your Destiny!

God redeemed us for a reason. He redeemed you for a purpose. He redeemed you so you can fulfill the assignment for your life. God sees you as useful. He has a mission for you to accomplish!

He designed you from start to finish. Even before anybody else accepted you, He accepted you.

Even before anybody else loved you, He loved you!

Grab hold....'cause He won't let go!!! Yea!! Enjoy your Wednesday!

Audit Your Priorities

I purposely got up early to read a story about a Pastor's wife who is getting married very soon. She is charming! She was married to a fabulous Pastor and has six kids! Her husband and 13 year old son were killed in a plane crash. And now she has met Mr. Right who was a single Pastor (never married) and they are tieing the knot soon. They make a lovely couple and with the three teenage girls and two boys left for him to "father" - he is super excited. And the way they found each other is over texting and a cup of Starbuck's. That is so cool! She was talking about it's been a bittersweet romance because with five kids left, she has given so much of herself that she can give! And she felt like sooner or later someone was going the "crumbs" instead of a "piece of pie."

My comments after reading her story, set realistic expectations for yourself. Know what you can do and know how much you can do. I love inspiring stories. I will definitely audit my priorities and slow down enough to catch up on reading. It is a great feeling - feeding one's soul!

See God For Who God Is

The more you see who God is the more you see who He is to you!

The more y ou see who God is to you, the more you see how valuable you are to Him!

I see God as being all powerful, all-wise, all-loving, and eternal.

I also see Him as my rock among the shifting sands of life.

Also, as a balm of Gilead in the midst of any sickness.

Most of all, as my provider in the midst of my lack!

We all need to see Him as ETERNAL and UNCHANGING in the midst of all of our busy lives! Do not be afraid. He will never leave you nor forsake you!

Dominant Thoughts

Naturally our dominant thoughts as a Mom go towards our kids, grandkids, all their animals, our animals, (including fishies), our family members (all inclusive), our previos church attendeees, friends, and all other people we think of. At the same time God cares a great deal about how we think! ....and what our dominant thoughts are! That's why in the Bible he says, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." Phil 2:5.

Let your thoughts reflect Christ and others.

Let His attitudes become your attitudes and live like you are a Christian.

Let Him confirm your actions.

And I think of love and forgiveness. (My favorite subjects.) Go ahead....love your adorable hubby and show him that you are there for him and will stand by him!!! woohoo!!! Those are terrific dominant thoughts!