Cleanliness

How true this is, the word cleanliness...for when Christ lives in our hearts we become new creatures and the old things pass away. II Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creaure; old things are passed away; behold al things are become new." It is really more important that we are clean on the inside than on the outside. God looks on the heart. Our Christian character and conduct reflect daily the cleanliness of our inward life.

You Shall Be The Best!

I've adopted the Proverbs 31 Homemaker as my model to take care of our home. It says I excel at my role of home manager. (vs. 29) My thinking goes something like this:
1. I have to keep the house clean.....makes me create order.
2. Three or Two meals a day.....what's the best on this?
EXCEL! Why not be the best?
Why not EXCEL?
It will bless your family so much by being the best!!!! I encourage you to excel because you are the best!

Trust!!!

Trust Vs. non-trust! It goes backward and forwards! One minute you can trust someone and the next it's hard to trust them....the same person. I personally like to trust. But, can you really trust? What causes you to trust? I would love to hear your take on Trust!!!!

(Short blog today...gotta finish some writing material re: Marriage Love)...have a happy Tuesday. Friday will be here before you know it!

Smiles!!!!!

How long has it been since you really smiled? It gives you peace of mind.

Let's not forget to smile - smiles can leave impressions that stay with us always!

We won't regret giving a smile and sharing it...especially with others in their need. It could be the only boost they get today and if you haven't smiled for a long time; try it; you'll find yourself looking on the brighter side instead of looking so gloomy.

You and I may be the only ones that care to brighten a perplexed soul. Begin the week to be happy for others and put your beautiful smile out there. Even family members need a smile! I encourage you to see how much your smile will shine and others will be smiling also! A smile to me is super empowerment and gives out quite a bit energy!!!

Early Bird!!!

I'm ALWAYS up early on special days...especially like Father's Day. All of the story falls into place, especially knowing our fabulous kids will call their Dad and I get so excited, I can't hardly stand it! So, what do I do...I get up early to make sure I have his card on the counter so that as he awakens he gets so excited for HIS DAY! I was teasing him and said if we still had the church service he would get the "Eldest Father" gift!!!

If you are a Father reading this...enjoy your day in all it's magnitude for you!!! You deserve the greatest day ever because you are SO DEDICATED, LOVING, and GENUINE!!!

Change Blog??????

I know it's Saturday and one of my fav days!

I'm thinking of changing my blog where I have more community.

What do you think?

I've been asked to give my take on various subjects which younger women want to hear.

My whole blog would mean my opinion and then you give your's.

Transparency which is my dream come true when I work with ladies.

Lately I haven't been getting any comments.....and maybe it's because I give my encouragement and you don't know what to add to it. In this new blog, you would get a chance to comment and oh what joy that would be for me.

I welcome your comments on this. Happy pre-Father's Day guys!!!!!

Dads

My hubby is a remarkable Dad and so is our Son! They always give so much patience when wee hands tug at them with their small demands!
And give such gentle and smiling eyes....
even though weariness, or noise obscures their vision.
No bad memories of these two Dads and I hope all Dads have an awesome "Father's Day!"
I'm already celebrating with my creative cards and love sent!!!! And I hope you do the same. They deserve, deserve, deserve it. As a Dad there is nothing my hubby wouldn't do! He is amazing!!! And to top it all off, he has played the role of Dad to a lot of Fatherless peeps!!!! Oh, may God bless him immensely for that because I've seen him spending hours on that one! You Dads deserve tons of recognition in approximately two days! Begin now to celebrate!!!

Happy The Home

Where love is found...
Loyalty, truth, and kindness.....
Is God loved above all others?
And do children honor their fathers and mothers?
Is the Home spacious, great or small?
And do you honor God?
Is it where lifting burdens others bear?
It's the only hope for the nation.
FAITH WILL CONQUER FEAR AND DESPAIR!
But, ladies...make sure homes reflect God's love
and tender care!!! : )
Come on, you can do it! I know you can!!!!

Just Because He Lives!!!!

As the song goes, "And life is worth the living.....JUST BECAUSE HE LIVES!!!!"

Yes, life is worth living.

If you have lived around women who did not think that, your heart would be oh so sad most of the time. But it's worth the living....He liveth in me....the Lord and what energy, enthusiasm, and worthwhile things I put into this life ARE WORTH IT!!!

It's not time to give up! I talked to a lady Monday who said she didn't know why her husband goes to work every day and is so dedicated to his job. Have you ever had to explain .... so that you two and your kids can live!!! Hello....that's a simple answer. No work, no pay (unless you are drawing SS) Where is her mind?

Life is worth living, because He lives...He proves it to us daily, second by second, days, weeks, months, years...let Him reward you and have a most happy Wednesday!

Decision Making

Not a second goes by that you and I aren't making decisions.

As you listen to someone speak, you have to carefully decide how to answer...and with what words.

When there is a crisis, options have to be clicked through mentally on the spot....and a decision on a course of action must be made quickly.

Decision making does not include laziness, self-indulgence, or secondary choices.

Remember your ability to making wise decisions is directly proportional to your degree of maturity. God will guide you...take time to listen to His beckoning call.

Community

An interesting word!!! If wanting to live a happy life with others - you will definitely want "Community." People who care, who communicate, who contact you and don't make any bones about it...you mean the world to them! ......hearing each other voices!! FB or Blog could never replace what it means to hear a friend or family member's voice. I hear from our two awesome kids; my heart is so overjoyed!

People we need community. The world doesn't revolve on selfishness. Let's put in community and change what society believes. The love of God will compel us to live this way!!! I rejoice that I hear from quite a few who know my cell phone number and I burst with joy! Over the weekend I heard from those who really believe in community. I'm getting with the program now and my heart is overjoyed to begin the week! I hope you hear from family and friends with a beautiful live voice! This lives out God's plan and purpose!!!

Life is just too short and too precious to be wasted on anything that does not help you live our God's plan and purpose in .... what's that word????
C-o-m-m-u-n-i-t-y!!! Woooohooo

Always Prayer!!!!

As FB says, "What's On Your Mind?" Prayer is today on my mind.
Wow! We received eight prayer requests this week. So many people are having surgeries or events in their fam. that need prayers now. Love, love, love to be asked to pray for some issue!!!! Prayer is the answer! It is the shelter in the time of storms! Whether it be illness, issues, families, work stuff, the list goes on and on.

Take your troubles to the Lord and leave them there. Don't pick them up, just leave them. He is there to heal, protect, give you peace, joy and contentment. How about starting TODAY, the Lord's Day. He will give you blessing beyond blessing! Prayer is real and soothing. It's always great to see the outcome and oh so wonderful!

Everybody Wants To Be Somebody!

Every person wants to be loved. Every person wants to be well considered. Everybody wants to be somebody. This is true from the smallest of children to the oldest adults.

How can you help other people to feel like they are somebody? By seeing them with some awesome good in them. I would rate that person a 10!!!! I believe that yu get out of people exactly what you expect from them. If you treat people like 10's, they respond like 10's. It's a deep human desire and we can help people become great simply by showing them how we believe in them! Happy weekend!

Helping Somebody Influences!

Yesterday I ENCOURAGED three people. I give honor and glory to God. These three adults have the late stages of cancer. Pouring my effort into helping them to NOT GIVE UP, continue to eat, look at funny movies!!! The greater the positive impact you make on another person, the more likely that person is to turn around and influence others positively. Helping someone has a ripple effect. Just step out. My hubby and I are not beyond being helped. We are grateful to the core, believe you me.

I hope your weekend is phenomenal! You mean soooo much to me! Happy Friday!!!

Thoughtfulness!

Are you thoughtful?

So you thank those who have been a blessing to you?

What directs you to get beyond yourself and be thoughtful of something that means a lot to you?

Are you completely self-centereed all the time?

Thoughtful means remembering to be encouraging to those who need it. We all need it! No one is exempt from it.

My hubby knows I dearly love to find my eye glasses in the morning as I walk into the kitchen to get my cup of coffee. I lay them down in the den and just before he goes to bed, he places them on the kitchen counter. Yep! Can't miss them and there they are every day! He is so THOUGHTFUL and believe you me I thank him. I have to have my glasses and he knows that...of course I can't see well to find them either.

At the same time I am thoughtful to remember to put sugar in his cup of coffee every single day for 42 + years. He compliments me that I put "just enough." He has to watch his sugar intake, so I put just exactly the right amount.

The list could go on and on for thoughtfulness between the two of us. How about you? Are you a thoughtful person or do you wait for everyone else to be that way???? Have a happy Thursday and do something thoughtful! It'll come back to you +++++!!!!

Home Blessings!

Homes do not become a reality just because we wish it, but they must be built with much prayer and guidance from our Lord.

The home is made up of many persons which we refer to as "Our Family." Father, the head of the house; A adjustments, M Mom the heart of the home; I image or impact of the home on members of the home as well as neighbors and friends. Influence on others.
L stands for love; the strongest bond to secure and establish family ties. Family love is based on God's love. and Y represents YOUTH - the children who come to bless the home! Prov. 22:6 - Train up a child in the way he should go.

Home blessings mean HOME SWEET HOME. So much love and care! We feel so safe and secure!!! That's home blessings....walking in the door and feel such happiness!!

Today is Pixie Day!

Pixie is our only dog now. Chloe passed on last week...we had her seventeen years. Is she missed? Definitely! Today is declared Pixie Day...at her last grooming which was last week, she has come down with fleas. Our friend, Clint told us about the right flea stuff, so we will just walk right into Petsmart and get the kind he mentioned with the "rid of them" ingredient that works! I cannot do fleas....I can remember my friend took care of her sister's dog and we actually sat and saw fleas jump. She had to fog her house after the dog was gone. That's my flea story! Everyone knows I will not report negativity on my blog....it's only because I cannot wait until I can say "No more fleas!" She is still a very loving dog and right now is vying for attention from both of us and it's been fun seeing her fit right in...I'm a morning person and my husband is night time; so Pixie gets the best of both worlds. She is so happy and jumps for joy because she deserves our love to give her. She is something else. Look on FB to see a pic of her. How about you? How many precious dogs do you have? God sure made Pixie beautiful; she is so full of love to me, and is no problem whatsoever!

It's Up!!!

Google has been down all morning. I am definitely a "creature of habit" person. Not being able to write my blog in the morning has really thrown me off for the day! Yea!!! It's up!!! Never thought I'd be blogging in the afternoon, so this will be pretty brief. Here's a great comment of encouragement:

Those who believe in our ability do more than stimulate us. They create for us an atmosphere in which it becomes easier to succeed! Let that motivate you today! See ya bright and early tomorrow morning!!!! Thanks for your patience!

Awesome Friends!!!

My hubby and I had a visit by our awesome friends, the Clarks, yesterday. Needless to say I am up early reminencing over the phenomenal time. I can't even begin to blog how great it was to our spirits. I don't keep iced tea in the frig. and of course, offered her coffee (she's my Starbuck's friend forever) and she didn't want any, so all we had was water and friendship! What a combination!

It brought so much happiness and joy to have them at our home. The older we become, it seems the faster the days slip by. Science has been able to add years to life, but our greatest problem is how to add life to years. How can we make the most of our life? The joy of living is not found necessarily in many years of existence. The man who is usually referred to as living the longest amount of years ever recorded was Methuselah....... (Gen. 5:27). It's been said he never accomplished one worthwhile thing. I said that to say this.....To hear what friends are doing is so worthwhile!!!! We hope they are very blessed and blessed greatly!!! Cool people!

Home Lovers!!!!

I like "home lovers" because I believe that if you love your home, you'll do all the rest. You'll work at building your home and your homemaking. You'll work at keeping your home! ...and being a good manager of your household!

I know that love is the world's most powerful motivator. So if we love our home, love being there and love managing it, building it, watching over it, and keeping it, then love will conquer all. That's my goal, is it your's? Go for it!!! Begin now!!!

Keepers at Home!

I'm up early enjoying the comments re: my FB pics!!! Makes my day...wow! thanks everyone!

Titus 2:5 says women are to be "keepers at home." translates...workers at home, homekeepers, good housekeepers, good managers of the houshold and home lovers! Whoa! I love all the titles and wear them seriously/respectfully!!

In the long run, you'll work at being a GOOD MANAGER of your household! Both you and I know that love is the world's most powerful motivator. If we love our home, love being there and love managing it, watching over it, keeping it, then LOVE will conquer all! No task too difficult and no job menial (meaningless!!!). Go for it; empower yourself to tackle it, master it and EXCEL at it! Prov. 31:29.

Do You Love Your Home?

I like "home lovers" because I believe that if you love your home, you'll do all the rest. You will work at building your home and your homemaking. You'll work at keeping your home. You'll work at being a good housekeeper. You'll work at being a good manager of your household.

You and I know that love is the world's most powerful motivator. So if we love our home, love being there and love managing it, building it, watching over it, and keeping it, then love will conquer all! Be dedicated to making your home a spirit of love, respect, and more love and respect. Relax because you know you can do....just do it!!!!! May you be blessed this Thursday by having LOVE in your home! (my favorite subject....all you need is love!!!....you go girl!!!)

The Love of Blogging

I cannot even begin how much I love to blog. When our son put in my blog three and one-half years ago, I was in ectasy and still am!!! The comments I get are amazingly incredible. I'm trying not to concentrate on what I do not know about blogging. All I know is my passion is to post encouragement! However, on Memorial Day I went in to make a comment back to one of my favorite readers and close friend and would you believe I deleted the entire blog for that day! I cannot even begin to write about how I tried to find it again...to no avail. All I can say is God knows all about it; gone forever! Sorry about that!

So far the subjects have been on "Love in the Making" a series I have written to help a wife help her in her role. It works! My heart goes out to ladies who give up on being a wife; no love shown at all to the hubby and it leaves my heart so sad for them. My hubby THRIVES on my love. He's told me countless hundreds of times that without my love and admiration for him, he would have slipped off into eternity way long before now! There's always a note from him or raving comments or a cell phone call.....he admires, adores, his eternal happiness to have my love. I give it too! I'm always extravagent to the max when it comes to our love, closeness, and utmost living a life about "real love" to this man!!!! Does God help me? Minute by minute!!! So, that's why I love blogging and thank you for reading it and giving me feedback which is what I love the most! It's my passion!!!! I'm an early riser and I will share, share, share and thank you for your wise, loving, so complimentary comments! Let the compliments begin!!!! Happy Wednesday to all!!!!

Build Your Home

Wisdom will help to build your home!

This may not sound very lovely or seem too appealing. Plans are made, care has been taken, effort has been expended, and the end results are attractive and beneficial. It's a home.....a home where the surroundings comfort the soul and the food sustains, nourishes, and energizes the body!

Proverbs 14:1 "EVery wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her hands." Instead of tearing it down, you should devote to building (literally) to your home. How do you spend your energy? If you are wise, you'll spend it building and bettering your home! Time is never wasted and it creates an enhanced environment with your family.

To me to build connotes faithfulness (like showing up for work on the job every day!) And don't forget attitude! Roll up your sleeves and get moving! Willingly take on the challenge....with passion and purpose!

Confidence!!!

Have you read Joyce Meyer's new book on Confidence?

Yesterday I had the privilege of reading it!

Awesome!

She puts it way up in the category of ENCOURAGEMENT so I thought I would mention it on my blog. The opposite, of course, is discouragement and since I don't blog negative information, I will give her a huge pat on the back for this book.

We all need confidence and I believe we forget what it really does for us. It's a big boost to how you feel!!!! If you are walking around in this world and have no confidence, you might want to ask God for a bucket full now!!!! Aim for more!

Consume Confidence. There are so many scriptures for confidence! The main goal is to aim at making the heart acceptable in the sight of the Lord (Ps. 19:14) and saturate your heart to be confident! Find a rhythm or a pattern that fits your lifestyle in confidence.

Confident in love, Bible reading, finances, teaching your children, more time, get up early and pray! Always aim for more confidence and be assured God will give you everything you need to feel strong in this commitment. Where'er thou art - at home, abroad, He still is near to thee to always give you the confidence you need. Wow!!!!!

Manifesting Our Love In Guidance!

Children are not looking for pals in parents, but for parents who will show their love through discipline and companionship. Too many parents are caught up in their own whirlwind of activities and never share themselves with their children.

A child should be treated with courtesy and compliments. Often parents only speak to their children when they need correction and this tends to make them misbehave simply to obtain attetion.

"Love is a basket with five loaves and two fishes. It's never enough until you start to give it away."

Learn to express your love.

Love is a Privilege!

Love is a privilege, not a duty! We need to show a wholesome, respectful love that does not smother the person but allows them independence while at the same time giving security!

The power of love....oh yes! No cable can draw so forcibly and no cord can bind as security as love can do with a very simple thread. LOVE MUST BE SINCERE. Love is to be constant, happy, shown in wisdom and understanding. Love cannot be bought.

It must be expressed.

(To be continued... I'm meeting someone this morning (yes, this early) who wants to share the love she has for her hubs!!!) Wooohooo

Faith Will Conquer!!!! ....Random Thoughts

Faith works!
Forgetting all I trust Him!
Who do you put your trust in?
Yes, it conquers!!!
I have faith that this chair I am sitting in will hold me.
That same faith takes hold when we put our complete trust in God!
That's where we live. Most people have no clue what it would remotely feel like to trust God and live in the Faith zone!!!
I never knew what it was like to live on faith until the last church my hubby Pastored ....we lived on faith. God always supplied at just the right time. You have to make your petitions known to Him, forgiving others as freely as He has forgiven you. Affirm that the Lord will constantly provide your needs by the faith in Him.

Keep your prayers going for "personal needs." It is God's desire that you know His will for your life. And that comes with trusting in Him.....all trusting. Prayer to have faith in trusting God prepares you to practice tough love, make Godly decisions and necessary changes.

Make your ear attentive to skillful faith living and the Godly wisdom that comes with it. (Matt. 6:33). I pray today you feel the many ways God supplies your every need just simply by relying on Him through Faith....Forgetting All, I Trust Him!

Be Equipped For Success

You are equipped because of a prayer you give to God!

1. Thanksgiving for the knowledge you know to do your job and even more!
2. It's because of God that you have rich and wonderful blessings.
3. He has delivered us out of the power of darkness and gives us understanding!
4. And that is success!

Most of all, be committed that you can do the work you have to do and be successful at it. Concentrate on being the best and let your boss know you did extra!!! Yesterday I talked with a lady who wants to live out God's Plan with Passion and Purpose. Plus have a successful marriage. It has to be a DESIRE to want a success in your life. We can do it ladies....just don't give up and sit around and feel sorry for yourself and play the victim role. You will GET NOWHERE!!! I promise...be equipped for success; know you can do it; and pat yourself on the back that you can do it!!!!! Happy Wednesday!!!!

Busy Women!!!

Hey there Busy Woman!!!! There's a difference, of course, between a busy woman and a lazy woman. Lazy women don't care ever about cleaning their home and making it comfortable for them, let alone others who come over. Then there is one who cares. Happy family...no one likes clutter on top of clutter!! We can't be too busy to redeem the time and make the most of of our time for our home. It shows we care when we give it some effort.

Weigh and evaluate the use and results of each priceless day. Uncover the time bandits and the time robbers that are allowing to cheat us out of our valuable minutes given to our home! Guard your time and home. Best of happiness! Come on. I know you can do it!!!

A Great Guideline!

Build your home!

Proverbs 14:1 "Every wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her hands."

What does the word build bring to mind? To me it conjures up images of effort, energy, and sweat! It connotes faithfulness...your dreams become a reality. And don't forget attitude! There's a roll-up-your-sleeves mentally that must go with home building. The tasks must be owned and tackled and with gusto! We have to welcome the labor it involves! The wise lady "builds" her house...it's her assitnment and she willingly takes on the challenge...with passion and purpose!

Love your home; manage it! I like homelovers because I believe that if you love your home, you'll do all the rest. You'll work at keeping your home; a great manager, and love will enable us and empower us to tackle, master, and excel it!

Early Riser!!!!!

Yesterday I met a lady who has the same sleep schedule. Early to bed, early to rise! That's a first! She has a Catering business; last Thursday she got up to make 500 pies, mind you!!!!!! (Chocolate, coconut and banana cream....from scratch!!!!)
In 1978 she lived in our house. She had graduated from school and wanted a home to rent while she went to college. So she came by our home and ended up sitting on the porch telling me her story (stories) : )

This is a first "Early Riser" I've met in a long time!

Actually that is the best time to bake. I've gotten up several times to make many, many loaves of banana bread.

Do you like to meet new people? It definitely was interesting!

May our God lift you up today and love you with an everlasting love today!

Who Is Keeping Score?

I would have a miserable day (definitely not encouraging day) if I counted on my fingers who reads my blog? Initially, putting it in was not to have a zillion comments, but all the years I have been in the Senior Ministry, I love to write to ladies and guys some "pass me down what you have done to keep such a happy life."

Random writing........

Who's keeping score? I don't think anyone that reads my blog is critical in this category of total of people who subscribe and read it!!!

People are ALWAYS asking me why I am happy and I tell it on my blog; some people have never had the privilege of being happy......truth....is.....they don't want to be happy. Misery loves company and they are their own misery!!! Ooooo that's too negative.

Here's a very ENCOURAGING thought for today:

Overcome issues with a new teachable spirit.

How's that working for you? Are you teachable or do you still have an overcontrolling spirit? You might as well know your life will be miserable!
Let God transform you!!!! How 'bout today? Saturdays are a great day to be thankful for even the smallest of thankfulness. Did you ever write a note to someone that means the world to you? Today I'll be making a Birthday card for a lady who will be 70 years old....er young. Can't wait....she's a bit color blind so she tells me the blues look like greens. But she is not judgmental or critical; just adores my creative cards!!!! I love her compliments!!! Have fun today everyone!!!!!!

I Truly Love This!!!!

Flatter me, and I may not believe you. (There's a difference in the real compliment!)

Critize me and I may not like you! (Amen on that one).

Be bitter towards me and I cannot be around you. (Very true!)

Ignore me; and I may not forgive you. (It's inevitable!!!)

Encourage me and I WILL NOT FORGET YOU. (Be oh so blessed!)

10 Disciplines for a Passion for The Bible!!!!

1. Refuse to miss a day.

2. Pray that you will even love the approach!

3. Consume different ways...video, aim at meditations.

4. Desire for wisdom and strength it brings!

5. I want to be a woman of THE BOOK - the Bible!!!

6. For accountability.

7. It helps me face the challenges of the day!!!

8. How did the women of the Bible handle life's escapables!!

9. Gives me extreme purpose!!!

10. Discipline, Happiness, Structure, and Encouragement!!!

Looking At Life!!!!

One of the key ingredients of life is people.....and people take time. I love to remind myself of this! Friendships are necessary, but be careful who you pick. You could have someone who works against you. I have a dedicated friend who many many years ago was a friend sent by God and represented a part of His purpose for my day and my life. Our family is glad she is my friend! That's so important for me.

Can you say you have a friend you can trust and is happy for you living a life of passion and purpose? She gives me consistent friendship. Prov. 27:10 says "Do not forsake your own friend." I have had my hubby say, "not a friend.....this lady you had coffee with." When I hear that warning, I am careful about what I do and say. Now, I have a friend; he gets a smile on his face when he knows I connect with her whether FB, E-mail, Blog, Texting, or Phone. It is our prayer daily that she will be blessed because my hubby says...."Carol, you are an incredible friend and I know you are definitely an ADDER to her life, as you are to mine.....I'm happy for you!" Nothing like hubby who cares enough to cheer me on!!! Love, love, love it!!!!

Wednesdays are my favorite day. ...and I love sharing positive comments, especially looking at life and rewarding myself for having such an awesome friend!!

Love Is The Key Ingredient

Honestly, some people say it is so difficult to love someone that is rude, out of sorts people and people with non-respect.

It's a challenge to me!!! First of all, I announce to my CLOSEST friend to pray for me as I approach that person. For some odd reason, I cannot be rude back to that person because prayer puts me in a mode that says, "It's their problem....if they want to be so self-centered, then they have to live with their self and I can just go on loving, my main incredient!!!" They know they push my button, so they're not going to change, but as the Beattles sang in my teen years, "Love is all you need...love, love, love is all you need!!!!"

I hope your Tuesday is just pretty great! Send that love out to others!!!!!! I'll be praying for you to get the "key ingredient" in, in, and more in!!!!!

Falling In Love!!!

Falling in love is easy.

Next to your relationship with God, your marriage is most urgent - and demanding.

I enjoy great accomplishments on many fronts and love living out God's plan that makes me a wise woman.

Follow your husband's leadership (Eph. 5:22) This represents God's will for every married woman. Some think that in our modern-do-your-own-thing...I-am-woman-world, submitting to our husband is outdted, prehistoric, even barbaric. But read that scripture and do it and you will have major respect for your husband. Never talk about him and downgrade him. I always say, "I'll have to check with my husband"
first.....the little things....but they say a lot!!

Your loyal love will work wonders in your marriage.....he is noble, so praise him and appreciate him!!!! I love to love him and love never ceases to bring great peace!!!

Why I Pray!!!

#1 reason: Mandatory!!!

When it comes to prayer, believe me, ignorance is not bliss!!! How in the world can we call upon the grace and mercy of the Lord, if we don't even know where we are in our prayer life?

Dear ones: this kind of careful attention is called for with any discipline. Have a prayer life, starts with a daily working knowledge of God's help!

Here's how it goes for me. I pray every morning when I get up....

Then I go a step further....

I write down my prayer requests in my personal journal.....

and.....

mark off prayers that have been answered.

Self-control....."Seek ye first the Kingdom of God....." List for prayer requests and it's a blessing to take time to pray!!! He knows our heart and wants to hear!!!

Begin today....I know you can do it!!!!!

Our Call To Prayer

No one could ever read the Bible and not notice its emphasis on prayer! From the opening pages of the Bible to its closing chapters, men and women of faith are heard crying out to God. Ineed, whole prayers are recorded for us word for word. Jeremiah 33:3; James 1:5; Matthew 7:7.

Do we really commune with the God of our Universe? He's our Sovereign and our Father!!!! He's the one who will never leave you nor forsake you.

I believe prayer nurtures our trust in God. A good father would never neglect his children and neither does our Heavenly Father. I have to pray regularly and boldly! I just decide that I will set aside some portion of time each day - alone - for prayer. That time can be 5, 10 minutes, or 15 minutes or more. I dedicate these minutes to the sacred path of prayer. I'll apply the same two principles to prayer that I use for Bible reading time.

Something is better than nothing.

And I would suggest, Always aim for more. Just think...it's You and God and you know He is with you intervening for you. I cannot live without it!

Nurture Your Friendships

We never wake up in the morning and coldheartedly, calculatingly decide, "I think I'll neglect my friends today." No, the neglect is most subtle. We just wake up in the morning and don't even think about our friends! Therefore, our friendships must be nurtured. You and I have to make willful decisions about the maintenance and growth of friendships with both family and friends...and that takes time, care and love.

Have a rewarding Friday and remember to nurture your friendships....amen and amen on this!!!!

God's Blessings

It's so easy to get stuck in minor difficulties, simply because it's purposed to cause discouragement. It almost worked for me. But, I get so reminded that God's blessings are what is at stake here and my choice: GOD'S BLESSINGS!!!

How about you? This has been Happy Mother's Day postweek. God has blessed the world with special women like us to be a Mom. That, in and of itself is such a blessing!! I have two marvelous adult kids that treat me so royally on Mother's Day and I'm having a super great week reminencing!!!! Not to mention, my flowers and incredible cards are the blessing of the Century!

I've seen God do the amazing things. Gen. 19:22 - right there when you need it!
Dare to receive God's blessings!!! Enjoy!!! Oh yes!!!! Greet everyone with a smile because it's the beginning of love even more because of our kids who have sure made my week!!! My resinate! Enjoy your "more of the week."

Spirit of Love

It's so sad that some ladies I work with cannot have a Spirit of Love. You will find as you look back upon your life that the moments when you have really lives are the moments when you have done things in a spirit of love. I believe that happens when you quit running your husband in the ground, but love him.

Check yourself.....yesterday I talked with a lady that said "That's the last thing I want to do; I'm paying him back." Sooo sad, why did you marry him?

I've seen some women who love their dog more than their husband. Check yourself...don't withhold love; that's the Spirit of ...... the home.......attitude....and way it should be!!!

Sarcastic Women!!!!

Everyone that knows me knows I do not do negative!!!! But, I have something on my mind that I am asking God to replace these thoughts (which I confess are negative) to thinking it really didn't happen, but that would not be true, because it did happen. Recently I saw a Lady purposely make sarcastic about one of our family members... remarks that shouldn't have been made or send e-mails, so sarcastic....and my mind cannot figure out why???? To hurt and injure on purpose? I really don't like to admit it, but I believe it was meant to be to hurt. At the same time, if anything was said sarcastically to them, they would start an argument that would never end. They are just waiting for a chance to dominate, control, dictate, and say bad things.....it's so sad.

They should be desiring a meaningful relationship, but are too jealous because they are not prominent and get cool things that happen to others who deserve great things. It's as they want to STOP something great happening to someone.

People like to feel special....sincerely compliment them.

People are looking for a better tomorrow....show them hope.

People get down-hearted.....encourage them!

People want to be associated with success....help them win.

I want to be a model to follow......and be an example.

So, don't let the miserable, down and outers, jealous people get the best of you.
Continue putting a roadblock because once receiving such negative, disgusting comments, it is very hard to transfer your mind, without really going to the Lord in prayer to get the negative thoughts out. They say things like that to PUSH YOUR BUTTON, and honestly some times it does, but this time I am working hard on going on with loving my family, friends, and enemies.....a big goal to accomplish Psalm 31:24 "Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart all you who hope in the Lord." Please respect....and it's not cool to be sarcastic; pretty soon you will be a lonely person who has NO ONE coming around. I know several ladies who are living miserable lives because of their sarcasims!!!!!! & don't be a victim of making such derogitory remarks!!!!

Fabulous Thought to Maintain! : )

After such an amazing Mother's Day (talk about being oh so loved by both kids....and everyone else) which was absolutely incredible, I came up with this thought and I hope all of you enjoy it:

Life is like a coin; you can spend it anyway you wish, but you can only spend it once!!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!

Copied from my Facebook: "What's On My Mind" by Carol
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY 2010!!! - This day has already taken my breath away as I have shared already the LOVE and JOY I've received for this fabulous day!!! God blessed the World with Special Women (Mom's)....liike US!!!! And our own Mothers who are in the arms of our precious Lord, or still here, we honor them! Mother: the greatest role on earth!!!!

The power of LOVE will be and has been given to me. Our kids will call me and I'm thrilled that we CONNECT!!!No cable can draw so forcibly and no cord can bind as security as the love that is so constant, happy, shown in wisdom, and understanding.

"Love is a basket with five loaves and two fishes. it's never enough until you start to give it away." Learn to express your love, Mom's - tremendous security...goes out to your kids and cannot be bought. It must be expressed!!!!

Hope of Today!!!

We have the hope of today, for every moment we breathe is a gift from God!

Looking forward to a tremendous Mother's Day tomorrow. I've already received great gifts from our two precious kids. I still call them kids even though they are grown adults.

They treat me like a queen and I am so blessed. It brings tears to my eyes how marvelous they give out a lot of love and appreciation to me for being their Mom.

TODAY: National Day of Prayer & Our Granddaughter's Birthday!!

Today is the National Day of Prayer. Let’s take time to focus our attention on praying for our Nation.

I pray today for God's mercy to be on the Haiti people and Tennessee and the so sad flooding. I know they are suffering great losses from the flooding. I pray the Lord shows Himself strong and faithful to these awesome people. It is a disaster. Oh God, please provide abundantly for those who have lost their homes and possessions.

I pray that those who are hurting will turn to You and be comforted for whatever their issues are THIS DAY.

Then today is our Granddaughter's birthday! She is such an adorable person; so sharp, full of tremendous energy and I could sit and watch or listen to her all day...she is always so cool and since day 1 she was born on this day, she has always been so full of life, joy and fun. She labeled this: "Shop 'til you drop day." And believe you me, when we had our Shop 'til you drop day (I think it was when she was double digit as she called it 10 years of age, two years ago). Anyway, we literally dropped at the Mall door, we were so pooped! I'm so excited for her; she deserves an awesome, cool birthday and we'll be celebrating with her tonight...can't wait!

If you would like to leave a prayer request for National Day of Prayer, please feel free to. I know more will be of e-mail, because some are timid about leaving a post, but have a day of God hearing your prayer as we all share this sacred day!

A Real Friend!!!

Yesterday I received a card from what I would consider a REAL FRIEND!

It stated a person who can look, but a friend sees the heart, understands your dreams. That hit me between the running lights. "Understands my dreams?" What is my dream? I don't even know! It made me start thinking to at some time write down my dreams and what I want in life. I know, but I've never written them down. At that point I will share with her, my real friend, and see if she understands. Trust me, she will understand, because I know the challenges and triumphs she has been through and I could rest assure, I've had a spell of those same challenges!

Friends understand because they have been through it also!

I have another DEVOUT friend and number one in my life....yesterday she sent an incredible e-mail and shared some great news regarding a task she is doing beyond the call of duty to not only do her daily job at work, but taking care of a relative who could not have made it without her encouragement to get well from serious surgery she had. She shared with me, "she could be on her own" but another relative will take over, to share her part....folks that's a friend!

Oh, my list could go on and on....God help me see I have friends who care and want me to be blessed. I love being their friend also!!!!!! whoowhoooo!!! Yea for them!!!!

Up Bright & Early!!!!

Communicating.....oh yes! Some notes.........

The art of communication is simply talking things over quietly, composed, using appreciation, admiration, respect, encouragement, understanding.

Looking at the problem from different viewpoints; everything seems to come out right and the once mountain problem becomes very insignificant!

Without communication there can be no adjustment. Ability to converse, to air any problem which may arise, to share with the other the private fears and worries and desires is so necessary!

Keep the lines of communication open without hostility, rudeness, or noisiness. It's important to have an understanding.

Have you ever made a statement to someone and both you are not on the same page? One is trying to say something that is off the planet as I call it. While the other thinks they know what the answer is? Being a good listener is vital!!!!

I love being up early to get the day started! Yea!!! I hope your Wednesday is happy!

Lines of Strong Communication

I strive to have a positive blog, so I will not discuss weak communication. I like the subject of strong communication.

Here's a few great things that make for STRONG communication:
Appreciation
Admiration
Respect
Encouragement
Understanding
Mutual Interests
Prayer
Consecration
Dedication

Proverbs 31:12 A wise woman will build a successful marriage by MEETING her husband's needs in this scripture. We must strive to keep our marriage in TUNE!

Happy Tuesday! Be blessed!

Change! (Gratitudes Galore!!!)

From time to time, I see change in someone, but unfortunately it's not for the best. But, since my blog is precisely for positive living and I would rather discuss the changes to someone that is positive; I'm going to choose my words. Over the weekend I saw two who HAVE CHANGED so marvelously. And believe it or not, they were incredible people (our daughter and our very close friend). The very close friend is giving a multitude of hours to take care, while working for a family relative....just miracle living! I give her a million pats on the back. Now, that is showing your Christianity and love from God and wants no major glory for it!!! Then, there was our daughter who set up this microsoft cam. chat where we could see her and she saw us! NOW I FEEL CHANGED. Oh, she was so incredible, I can't even begin to tell you what it did for DAD & MOM....wow - she didn't leave anything about us to see how we were. SUCH CARING and LOVE.

I begin the week with joy in my heart and cold chill bumps that two people entered our lives this weekend and made us feel like the most valuable people in this very world! Of course they both say I give them the joy by sending cards to them, but I give full credit to them because they reply and check on us!!!!! My change is I'm going to just keep my thoughts on the encouragement we have gotten through our Daughter and Son and Friend (I also want to include her husband : ) !!! May they have a phenomenal week for spreading joy, love and beautiful care!!!! They'll be real humble and say the gratitude goes to us....However, based on how we feel, it's them!!! We are so thankful!

It's A Privilege To Pray!

.....because

Prayer is the way we commune with God.

Prayer is a privilege.

The Creator of the World is who we are in touch with!

He will never leave us nor forsake us.

What a privilege we have to link up with God in prayer.

In my own life, I am wanting to see some answers to prayer, so I must remain in touch through prayer. So, I will remain patience and continue the prayers to see results.

How about you? Has He given you some awesome answers you can share? This is His day..all honor and glory to Him who wants to hear from us. I love that!

Children Are A Blessing!

We've been blessed! Our daughter got us a Microsoft camera for my 'puter and now tomorrow we are going to have the joy of seeing her and she can see us as we communicate! My husband looks awesome on "camera" -- me....hmmmm, but then I'll "doll" up to look awesome too!!!

I'm sure you've heard women talk on and on, complaining from one breath to the next, about the woes of raising children, referring to their little blessings from God as a brat-pack and rug-rats. You see, we've got it all wrong! Children are a blessing. They are an honor bestowed upon us from God. Motherhood is a privilege, and our children are our crowning glory! (I Tim. 2:15)

I hope this day goes by quickly so we can be blessed beyond comprehension to see her!
She was born in Kentucky....so of course we'll be watching the Kentucky Derby today....wouldn't miss it for the world. My hubby grew up there and then to think we lived there and am thrilled she was born there.

Blessings to you this day for the loving, adorable children you have to rejoice about! I'm with you on that one!!! woooohooo!!!

Attempting The Impossible

Have we done that lately?

Honestly you have never tested God's resources until you have attempted the impossible.

Sometimes did you ever feel like a monkey? Keeps jumping from pole to pole at the same pole and finally give up?

We live in a world where many people seem to hold us down when we want to climb and reach for our dreams. Sadly, they often do it because they are trying to be helpful.

The antidote is encouragement. Encouragement changes everything! It creates an atmosphere of encouragement for the people around us.....we have the power to improve the lives of others!

Attempt to do the IMPOSSIBLE! I dare you! (Psalm 10:17) (Exodus 14:13)

I pray for you to have a marvelous Friday!!! Yea!!!

A Positive Way To Manage Your Time!!!!

Well, my faithful friend, we have come full circule in our journey to understanding how to manage our lives as busy women!

Start with Ephesians 5:15-17 "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time...Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is."

God's Word first.

God's perspective on the areas you manage.

Develop the discipline that better ensures a measure of success in those areas.

We are to dedicate our lives to knowing and DOING God's will. His will: management of the minutes, the hours, and the days of our lives will come much easier.

Why? Because we are traveling in God's direction, toward God's will instead of struggling against God and His plans and purposes for us!

That's the positive way - doing God's work God's way! Keep Him first and all these things shall be added unto you! May God truly bless you this day!

Understanding Our Mate (Continued)

Understanding means accepting a person as he is for what he is. We are able to help each other but desirable changes are made only through patience, love, understanding and never by conflict. Accept him for himself - not the man you want him to be!

We can do far more to establlish a firm foundation by appreciation than by criticism. You must first of all, BELIEVE IN YOUR MATE. Trust him with your whole heart, confide in him, pray with him and for him, cooperate with him, shield him, (never take sides against him), cheer him, be patient when things go wrong. Try hard to understand his ways of thinking, his abilities, talents and his background. Often we are able to help him by SIMPLY LISTENING. Remember, sharp tongues and critical attitudes will only lead to disharmony and utter confusion for you and your mate as well as for your children and friends. (James 5:16) Even the most active couple whether in Church or in Social life, needs time alone, time to talk from the heart and time to listen without preoccupation or interruption. And this is the answer to understanding what a great MAN you truly have! = )

Positiveness

This word is extremely foreign to most people! They are so used to being negative; they cannot comprehend positiveness. I'm here to tell you, live this word in your life, along with positive scriptures and your life will be so much easy! Because when things are soooo negative; my Mom used to say, you can't see the forest for the trees! You're so busy in the chaos of the negativeness, you cannot see the positiveness!

I refuse to let negativity take over my life. One example: around women that RUN their husband down. Nope! I will not. Do I have tons of friends hanging around at my door? Nope! It would be different if they would even remotely mention issues they do wrong; oh no, it's his fault no matter what!!! Really sad. He doesn't stand a chance. The Bible says "Hell hath no fury as to an angry woman....." I believe that. Do women just wake up some day and decide to be so angry they are going to ruin his day for sure? He has just as much right to be in a great mood as you are! Oh, if only women could see this!

One of the keys to a happy and successful marriage is mutual understanding; aha---positiveness!!! It is next to impossible to live with a person you are always trying to "figure out." Understanding must not be mistaken for remodeling. No one likes to be made over - especially if it is your husband or wife trying to do it. This only tends to make the sparks fly!

To be continued tomorrow. It just dawned on me; I have a breakfast appointment with a lady. Oooops.....do not miss tomorrow's blog. Happy Tuesday!

This too shall pass.......

My heart is huge towards my blog Subscribers and E-Mailers. I want you to know.....this too shall pass.....you can get through and with God's amazing grace, mercy, and love! Overcoming with a more teachable spirit may be the answer! Since I haven't had time to answer all e-mails, I want to say, especially, be open to God's will and what He wants to put His loving arms around you and let His Spirit calm all fears!

I love you and want you to know you are the victor in so many things. I journaled the things I was thankful for and almost filled the pages of a journal. Begin the week with your head held high and let God brag through you His mercy and love. It will amaze people around you and you will feel soooo good. I know you will! Begin anew a new week, looking forward to the many talents, wisdom, skills you have. Believe me the list will go on and on.

So, now the question is, how do we deal with the time issue? For most of us, all our good intentions seems to somehow get swallowed up in the swirling whirlwind of our busy lives. And we have good intentions, only to find ourselves full frustrated and defeated. We lament with wonder, "What happened?" Redeem the time....this too shall pass!

Ooooo I LOVE THIS!!!!

Faith makes all things possible.

Love makes all things worthwhile!

Happy, happy Lord's Day! I appreciate so much those of you who have written comments via e-mail. I know it's hard to leave a comment; especially since some don't have the least idea how to, but please know even when I read your e-mails, my heart is HUGE towards you this very moment! And I thank you!

Disciplines

I have 3:

Reviewing my memorized Scripture verses. They come alive again with each visit!

Periodically reading through encouraging notes sent to me.

Journal.....I write everything I want to remember in my journal; prayers, sermon notes, beautiful wording, advice, ideas, dreams and goals and what my hubby, kids and grandkids mean to me (& family & friends).

End result: DISCIPLINE of reviewing to taste that JOY again and again! 'N-JOY your Saturday!!!!!

A Friend Loveth At All Times

I have friends. Sometimes I wonder what Proverbs 17:17 means: "A friend loveth at all times." Solomon stated it. So, I would feel in my heart that would be my husband because he does LOVE at all times.

How about you? Can you call your husband a friend? That's vital!

The value of a genuine friendship defies description. Friendship is too majestic, too sublime, too extensive, too inward for our human eyes to fully see. We see the fruits of it, but not the inner feeling that binds heart to heart and causes them to beat in tune. I can remember a lady in our church introduced me to a friend who needed help with marital problems (43 years of marriage) and through e-mail we conversed because she was an Interior Decorator and had many appointments. As a friend over internet, she would have made a great friend, but because she wanted to meet with me and my husband; her real reason was to manipulate my husband in counseling to see it her way instead of what the husband was saying. That was so disappointing to me because I was positive she wanted to be my friend. Did I get over it? Of course.

I could name many friends, but if you don't hear from them, are they still your friend? Hmmmm We need to ask the question: are they really interested in my friendship? Would they tell me?

Yesterday I received an e-mail from a genuine friend. Her Grandmother is in the hospital with recent surgery.....she took the time out of HER VERY BUSY SCHEDULE to e-mail me. Now, that's a friend! Trust me, I charish her that she "loveth at all times." I hope everyone has a Happy Friday!!!

What is Personality? More WIFE info........

It's understanding YOURSELF.

We need to understand ourselves. How can we ever hope to understand our mate if we do not understand our own self? How well do you really know yourself? Are we able to recognize our own strength and our own weakness? Often it is so easy to see the mote in the other person's eye and yet not know we have a beam in our own. Evidently in some areas we are not conscious of our own short-comings. We may be able to deceive ourselves but usually our mate has a perfectly good image of us. If we fail to meet his expectations, then it is our responsibility to check ourselves and correct our faults.

Do you try to make your home interesting, attractive, cheerful, a place of rest and relaxation? Do you devote time, thought and study to making it what your husband desires?

Do you serve meals he likes?

Do you handle household finances in a business-like way? Are you extravagant?

How about your appearance? Do you strive to be neat, attractive, in manner and speech?

Are you a good sport? Do you insist on always having your own way?

Do you show courtesy and consideration to his relatives?

Are you willing for him to be the head of your home?

After we have tried to become better acquainted with our own personality, and understand our attitudes, then we know our personality to change and understand him!

What Makes You Happy?

Money?

Problems all solved?

Appreciation?

Answers to Prayer?

Believe in Yourself?

What are you teaching yourself to be happy?

And I believe once you learn how good you really are, you never can settle for playing anything less than your very best to be happy! That's what I do. I get the Bible and find answers and settle with the answer. That's the best resource.

One of the best scriptures is: Genesis 1:26-28; Genesis 2:7 and Genesis 2:18-25.
This is a master plan or a blueprint for a Happy home! Go for it! These verses give the basic plan for the foundations of a marriage: sex, finances, religion, children or in-laws. However the most basic problem is the problem of personality conflict.

Those of you who know me, know that I don't write l--o--n--g blogs, so, with that in mind.........

Next blog: What is Personality?

My Lightbulb Moment

Never underestimate the power of an encouraging word. A Personal Banker said she wants to start a "Compliment Club" Every day we need to pay an honest compliment to each of three different persons. And Carol, we would make you the CEO because you are so GREAT at that! She gathered a crowd around her and one person said it would be dishonest to compliment someone they didn't like. Wouldn't it be insincere to praise your enemy? I said, no because the compliment is an honest statement of praise for some objective trait or merit that deserves commendation. Nobody is entirely devoid of merit or virtue.

The world is starving for appreciation. It is hungry for compliments. Somebody must start the ball rolling by speaking first and saying a nice thing to companions. "As we must account for every idle word - so we must for every idle silence." And that's my Lightbulb Moment. I felt honored. Even the Branch Manager of the Bank got involved. Thank you Lord, you know I needed that Lightbulb Moment!!! I pray you have one today!!! Yes, yes, yes!

Decisions That Are Given To A Wife

How do we determine the correct procedure in making decisions that are given to the wife? Only by reading and obeying God's Word for understanding, wisdom, and instruction and going to the Lord in prayer for His Divine strength and help are we able to cope with the different situations.

Homes do not become a reality just because we wish it, but they must be built with much prayer and guidance from our Lord.

The home is made of many persons which we refer to as "Our Family:"

F - Father, the head of the house
A - Stand between Father and Mother representing adjustments that must be made to main-
tain harmony and love
M - Stands for Mother - the heart of the home.
I - Stands for the image or impact of the home on members of the family; influence.
L - Stands for love. The strongest bond to secure and establish family ties. Family
love is based on God's love.
Y - Represents youth - the children who come to bless the home. Prov. 22:6 "Train up
a child in the way he should go." Prov. 22:1 Loving favour rather than gold..."

Be it ever so humble, there's no place like Home! & the Peace the Wife can give!

Right Living!

We shouldn't live a selfish life and ever hurt others through our greed. God made this earth for all and blesses each of us with His care. If while striving for success, and we're kicking others down we need to remember God is looking down on us and it's only through living right, that we'll have true success and happiness.

If we stomp on someone's heart to reach a goal we want to attain, God will see it from the start and won't uphold the dishonesty of the gain we think we are getting.

Living right gives us no regrets.

Happy Lord's Day and many blessings and may God give His special touch to you....his touch of beauty!!!!

Nine Encouraging Words To Ladies!!

We shall overcome.

And, with a more teachable spirit!!!

Take them to heart!!! ....and be blessed.

Small Stuff - Don't Sweat It!

Don't make mountains out of molehills! "This too shall pass!" This is what I do when I'm all stressed out of tune! (balance).

I ask my self a question....is someone trying to change me? I will not make it a big deal! It's important to have some super self talk as I categorize this problem.. Is this a 5 minute problem? Is this a 5 hour problem? A 5 hour problem (would be like missing a flight...) or is it a 5 month problem? I will stay in peace; do my best to not sweat the small stuff. My Momma in Oklahoma used to say "Don't count your chickens before they hatch?"

Acts 20:24 - "None of these things move me."

Life is a coin, you can spend it anyway you wish but you can only spend it once! Do you sweat the small stuff? Or do you deliberately add things to what someone said to make them look bad and what does it do? It starts a hostile argument. You're not the one in charge of their life? Why make a big deal out of nothing!!!

GOD IS IN CONTROL.

A Real Look At Life Ladies!!!!!

Okay, I'm up early. What else is new?

I want to think about the place where you live, the place you call home. You and I have little control over most of the events in our lives. But we set the atmosphere and spirit of the home. It's our place! Our sphere! My hubby doesn't care at all how I move furniture, or being a "keeper of the home." Come one ladies....keep your home clean. Husbands love that! I know so many whomen who have made so much trouble in their home simply because they leave crud, dirt around and if I were a hubby I would say "unacceptable!!!" Bottom line! This is a real looking at it! It takes about twelve minutes exactly to pick up the clutter, organize it.

Don't write off homemaking as a worthless occupation. Talk to some women who DO LOVE taking care of their homes. Don't be jealous. Ask your husband to encourage you and pray for you. Be accountable!

Create a REAL LIFE to have heaven on earth where you live!

A Calling To Contentment

Are you content? Philippians 4:11-12....."I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content..."

There's no doubt that contentment is a real tough issue for women. But we are admonished to live each and every day with passion and purpose to be content.

I want my face to fully shine with all sufficient joy --- and contentment --- in the Lord! Yesterday I spent time with a lady who is frozen with fear. Tragic! She has a beautiful Spirit, but will not acknowledge how content she is. I told her she has built walls around herself. She has everything in the world going for her, but couldn't see it. I enjoyed helping her see how peaceful it would be to ask God for contentment! I believe she will have had a great night's sleep. That was my prayer and encouragement to her. We shall see. Right now at this very time, I am being very content! And I'll be praying for you also. It is a great part of God's amazing grace that works!

Exercise!!!!

The word....exercise!

We have a new Grocery Store 6 doors down from our home now! It opens today! So, yesterday we were invited to a "Ribbon Cutting Ceremony" as everyone was permitted in for samples of food and to view the new Store! So we walked there! So, now we will be walking there probably daily to get our "EXERCISE" IN! whooopeeeee!!! Much needed, but I will honestly say I'm sore!!! And I call myself a "walker"...so you see we all need some exercise......so get with the program....can't deny it! Have a very happy Tuesday. What an odd day to open a Store, but we saw some really cheap fruit that we need desperately! It's a small store, but definitely lower in prices!

Communicating (My Fav Subject)

How about clear understanding? One day Mary decided her husband was not as attentive as she wished. Shet met him at the door with this complaint, "Honey, I've been watching the Joneses next door, he brings his wife candy and flowers. He always kisses her when he comes home. I wonder why you don't do that?" Very quietly he answered, "Because I don't know her that well." It is very important that we learn the value of communication in our marriage.

Yesterday I spoke with our precious daughter and she communicated she had been real busy and couldn't talk very long. Of course, that's a clue....honor her request and keep the communication short, sweet, and to the point. We all need to get the message....it's there....honor, respect and look for a clear understanding.

My husband and I were conversing about communication yesterday. Our question: Why don't people call on cell phone to enjoy friendship? There's no answer, but we both voted unanimously, it's SAD! But, then he said, "They don't care." Ooooo that one is really sad. I'm different. I'll make the call myself. I don't want to be included in that category of communication.

I appreciate so much the comments made to me on FB!!! It lights up my life and enlightens my day! I want to always communicate "encouragement" and those of you who write comments; they, in turn give me a perfect level of encouragement! It's mandatory for me!!!

Prayer

It's time to make a prayer list for me. I need to really study my own prayer list at this moment and cross out the answered prayers. What a beautiful to do so! A challenge, but I know the Lord will see me through. Thank goodness for His love and mercy as He gives me the decision and commitment to "catch up."

Bless you this Lord's day!

Dedication!!!

Dedicating this day for all the people who have mentioned to me they will really miss the Cowboys Stadium and I'm one of them. Both our kids performed at the Stadium through the MacArthur Band. Our son was a Drum Major and performed many times there and our daughter had performance there in Band and other events. So, in memory, before we go to church tomorrow, we will watch on Channel 8 the kid that presses the button (his Father is a Pastor in Garland) and we can't wait to see or possibly can hear it!

Happy Saturday! and God bless everyone!!!!

Purpose in Life!

My purpose in life.......encouragement! Meant for me....meant for you!

...someone lets me know they are praying for me. In fact, a dear "best friend" just sent me what she called "a prayer angel." Her note said that the little 3-inch kneeling angel was meant to sit on my desk so that each day I saw it, I would know one person was praying for me every day! Now that's encouraging!

...someone sends a little note of appreciation...for no reason at all. One day a tiny "chicken" card arrived in the mail, a cheery chicken. (I collect chickens so I see the cheeriness first!!! Inside the chicken had written these words--"Dear Carol. You have been so helpful/a life saver to me. You are to me a Titus 2 woman." ..more that it said.... Thank you and may God bless you and your beautiful family and ministry -- Remember, in Hebrews 6:10: "For God is not unfair. He will not forget how hard you have worked for Him." And the woman signed off with "Love you xxx" and her name. Friend, I have to say, first of all, that card arrived when my heart was so far down....I wondered if it would ever get "up" again! And the longer I carried it in my personal journal;that goes with me everywhere!!!! Some of you have sent encouragement on a regular basis...and I thank you so sincerely....would you believe....hardly a day goes by that I don't read what you wrote and I truly WOMEN give me my purpose in life by your encouragement!

My precious Jim is a true people person.....and he has taught me his principle for encounters with others "In every encounter make it your goal that the other person is better off for having been in your presence." I'm happy to admit, this people principle has become mine, too, and I hope will become yours as well.

Happy Friday! Choose a great purpose in life! It works!

Our Mate - How To Understand Him

One of the keys to a happy and successful marriage is mutual understanding. It is next to impossible to live with a person you are always trying to "figure out." Understanding must not be mistaken for "remodeling." No one likes to be made over - especially if it is your husband trying to do it. This only tends to make the sparks fly.

Understanding means accepting a person as he is for what he is. We are able to help each other but desirable changes are made only through patience, love, understanding and never by conflict. Accept him for himself - not the man you want him to be.

We can do far more to establish a firm foundation by appreciation than by criticism. You must believe in your hubby! Trust him with your whole heart, confide in him, pray with him and for him, cooperate with him, shield him, cheer him, be patient when things go wrong. Also please be trusting on what you do. If you lie to him, then you need to confess to him that you did lie and not blame it on the kids. The put downs have to go; that's being hypocritical. James 5:16 - "Confess your faults one to another...." great verse! All of this will give understanding and you are on the same page as him and love just is inevitable! ....and happiness!

Understanding Yourself as a Wife

In discussing personality, we must know or understand ourselves. How can we ever hope to understand our mate if we do not understand our own self? How well do you really know yourself? Are we able to recognize our own strength and our own weakness? Often it is so easy to see the mote in the other person's eye and yet not know we have a beam in our own. We may be able to deceive ourselves but usually our mate has a fairly good image of us. If we fail to meet his expectations, then it is our responsibility to check ourselves and correct our faults.

These are some questions it is good to ask ourselves as a wife:

1. Do I try to make my home interesting, attactive, cheerful, a place of rest and relaxation?

2. Do I devote time, thought, and study to making it what my husband desires?

3. Do I serve meals that are nutritious, appetizing to the taste, and what our family enjoys eating?

4. Do I handle household finances in a business-like way?

5. Am I extravagant?

6. How about our personal appearance at home, or in public?

7. Am I a good sport? Do we insist on always have our own way?

8. Do we try to encourage our mate's decisions even if we do not always agree?

9. Are we willing for him to be the head of our home?

10. Are we willing to follow his leadership in private and family devotions?

In trying to understand our own personality or discover our real motives, we realize we are actually what we have been becoming over a period of years. They can become stepping stones or stumbling blocks just as we will allow them to.

Then after we have tried to become better acquainted with our own personality, and understand our attitudes more clearly, then we need to: Understand our mate! (Thur.--tomorrow -- to be continued.)

A Wife's Dream!!!

A friend of mine wrote this and gave it to me. I had told her I am featuring "The Wife" on my blogs and her role to maintain a happy home and she sent it. Enjoy:

A MARTHA
I want to be a Martha full of hospitality.
I want my guests to have the best while visiting with me.
I lay the cloth so smoothly, place the silver by the plate
And hope the food is very good for all who there await.

I want to be a Martha, caring fondly for my own,
To wait upon 'til day is done, those sheltered in my home.
But in the midst of serving thee, though weighted down I be,
Lord, let me be like Mary who had fellowship with Thee.

Patience!

Love that word! Every minute you are angry you loose 60 seconds of happiness. Remember to keep your opinions to yourself. A halo has to fall only a few inches to become a noose!

The things you do not say, you do not have to regret later. How often I wish people could erase some of their hasty words to me and it's not even my fault!

Why be so angry and where does it get you?

Have some patience and love and really mean it!

Practice patience....it will come back to you 10-fold!!!!

Happy Easter

Praying for you to have a Happy Easter, including our kids, our grandkids, and family/friends who live many miles from us!

The things you do not say, you do not have to regret later. Tolerance - No two families are identical, Each has their own good points - - try to use these to enrich your own home! That makes for a Happy Easter!

We celebrate His resurrection and life He has given us because of this day!
So, as we all have great feelings for whatever takes place today, just know, Christ is alive and risen!!!!

Easter Happiness!!!!

I'll be back on "Marriage" on Monday on my blog. Thanks for your patience.

I want to say I really pray each one of you connect with the agony and suffering our Savior did by dying on the cross for our sins. That is Easter happiness, knowing He took our place and at this point comforts us as we celebrate what He has done for us!

Yesterday I visited with two ladies (one, age 72 and dying of cancer) (the other 90 years old) who had NO CLUE about the Easter happiness they can have. All I could do was offer the salvation message. (They are 2 long-standing neighbors). They are both in the middle of a difficult trial - a long illness or a period of financial strain. God gave me words of kindness and love, and the ability to lighten their load, bringing hope and encouragement to their lives. All they could talk about is that they want my hubby to "preach" their funeral. Finally, I narrowed the question down to "Has there been a time when you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior?" The 90 year old has without a shadow of doubt; the 72 year one bowed her head and repeated the sinner's prayer. I would suggest prayer and say thanks for letting me share this with you. My dear friends, this is Easter happiness!!!! Praise His Holy Name!!!!!!
You are welcome to share any special thing that has happened on this Easter or Good Friday! I was so thrilled to share with both of these ladies and you. Be blessed!

Respect In Marriage

Remember some of the things you had to learn the hard way. These are the points you will not want to experience again, but we each have to learn in our own time and own Respect limitations and the other's privacy.

I know some wives who, knowing their husband doesn't like it, do things that cause disrespect. Which leads to anger.....lack of patience that the husband has at this time. Remember - every minutes he is angry you both loose 60 seconds of hapiness. Remember to keep out of his no tolerance zone. In other words, don't deliberately cause anger and impatience because of already knowing that is a "don't go there" scene! I'm 99 and 100 percent you wouldn't want him to go into your disrespect zones.

Remember Matt. 7:1-3 - "Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure you mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam tha is in thy own eye?" Respect each other's boundaries! May you have a great Good Friday!"

I am memorizing Romans 5:5 a scripture re: love....I'm so happy I can celebrate the Resurrection of Christ and all He has done for us, through his unconditional love and grace. Be blessed this day!

Learn To Love From Afar

Do not create a smothering love - it will only put out the flame.

Understanding:
It has been said there are two kinds of men who do not understand women - bachelors and husbands. Often your in-law will be won when they realize you understand when no one else does. It is better to put a strong fence at the top of a cliff than an ambulance down below. Understanding can become a strong fence.

Communication:
Proverbs 15:11 - "A soft answer turneth away wrath."
Remember you do not know all of the troubles a person experiences unless you are walking in their shoes. We have to keep a meek and quiet spirit. Hold our mouth shut if we have to.

I'm going to stop right there. When I say learn to love from afar. Let God remove you from a, what I call, "a knock-down drag out." Anger is running rampent! You will regret it ladies, if you start a major fight or he does and you strike each other or throw something at each other. Just do not start a ruckus. You know you love him and he loves you, but keep a meek and quiet spirit. Scripture: I Peter 3:4 & I Thessalonians 4:11: I Peter 3:4 - goes for man or woman. Honestly, I've seen women say things to their husband that wouldn't even be good to say to anyone, let alone the hubby! What are you going to do? Are you going to love from afar?

....to be continued......

A Touch Of Love

When we repeat the wedding vows and accept the duties of a wife or husband, we immediately inherit a new family and whether we admit it or not, they are an actual part of our lives. Parents are always parents. (Remember that!) Parents should have tolerance for the new family even if you disagree with their way of life. Never criticize them openly or privately! The Bible gives two basic teachings on family living:
1....Leave and cleave.
2....Honor and care for Your parents!

Build your love on trust and truth! An in-law can be a really TRUE FRIEND who when you get to the end of your rope will be there to pull you up. Be sure and thank them!

LOVE - Romans 12:9 - "Let love be without dissimulations." Here love is spoken of as - let love be without hypocrisy! Romans 143:10 - "Love worketh no ill!"

TO BE CONTINUED ON TOMORROW'S BLOG.

How do you get confidence?

Your life is like a canvass. What are you going to hang or paint on it?

Where do we get confidence?

or....is it the Holy Spirit to tell us we don't need to go there? In other words to get the confidence from what the world says is what you don't need to do.

Hebrews 10:35 - Go to the Bible for confidence! Do not cast away from your confidence!!!

I believe confidence comes from a beautiful spirit! In other words, don't be frozen with fear! You can't give away something you don't have. You tend to build walls. Then you end up having no peace with people, no healing in the soul. You can have self confidence. We all deal with it. Be truthful! Listen to a mentor! Seek Godly confidence! We should trust Him with it! When you don't feel like you have confidence, you don't! But, with God you will have it! Maximize what you have!

Create and maintain an atmosphere of LOVE!

Today, we can do no greater thing than to create and maintain an atmosphere of love in our homes. We must remember that love which spoils and pampers, also weakens and hampers. Real love will strengthen and help one to be free to grow and to mature.

I made my hubby a "Love-bird" card! He went bonkers over it! Front and center..he placed it right by the coffee pot. That's where we leave cards, flower(s), or message to each other. Keeping the home fires burning, knowing another person lives here is my challenge! I see so many (what I call) "mean" wives to their husband. Don't they realize that could hurt the way they treat him? Try doing something to make for a lot of love. Are you out of ideas? Awe....come on.....get him a card or make one; straighten his bathroom towel, or shoes, or wash his car.

Have fun coming up with ideas. It will come back to your ten-fold!!! Happy pre-Easter week! Sending lots of love to all!

What Happens When The Entire Team Is Positive

Everything seems good.

Preparation seems to proceed more smoothly.

Every break seems to go your way.

The small victories seem sweet and the big onces make you feel amost invinciple.

The team enjoys the great morale!

In fact it energizes!

Try it - you will like it!

This the day the Lord hath made! Be positive by reading His Word and obeying it!

What's Your Passion?

Human beings. I love to help them get fire in their souls, and impossibilities vanish. A fire in the heart lifts everything in life and love excels.

When we find our passion, we can be assured that great things do lie ahead. What can you do to find your's? What can you do to help someone find their's?

Passion increases willpower. It is the fuel for the will. If you want anything badly enough, you can find the willpower to achieve it! Enjoy your weekend and your passion! I know I will!

Understanding Our Mate

One of the keys to a happy and successful marriage is mutual understanding. It is next to impossible to live with a person you are always trying to figure out. Understanding must not be mistaken for remodeling. No one likes to be made over - especially if it is your husband or wife trying to do it. This only tends to make the sparks fly.

Understanding means accepting a person as he is for what he is. We are able to help each other but desirable changes are made only through patience, love, understanding and never by conflict. Accept him for himself - not the man you want him to be. Trust him with your whole heart, confide in him, believe in your mate and cooperate with him! Shield him (never take sides against him), cheer him, be patient when things go wrong. Understand his ways of thinking; he is out earning money for the family and has a lot of stressful decisions to make!

Remember, sharp tongues and critical attitudes will only lead to disharmony and utter confusion for you and your mate! Happy Friday for sure!!!

Understanding Self!

Recently I had the privilege of speaking to a group of women on staff at a church and the Pastor's Wife wanted me to speak primarily on "How Do We Understanding Ourselves as a Wife" Here's what I shared:

In discussing personality, we must know or understand ourselves. How can we ever hope to understand our mate if we do not understand our own self? How well do you really know yourself? Are we able to recognize our own strength and our own weakness? It is so easy to see the mote in the other person's eye and yet not know e have a beam in our own. We may be able to deceive ourselves, but our mate has a fairly good image of us. When we fail to meet his expectations, then it is our responsibility to check ourselves and correct our faults!

It is good to ask ourselves periodically:
Do you try to make your home interesting, attractive, cheerful, a place of rest and relaxation? Do you devote time, thought, and study to making it what your husband desires? Do you serve meals that are nutritious, appetizing to the taste, attractive and what your family enjoys eating? Do you handle household finances in a business like way? Are you extravagant? (It has been said a woman can throw more money with a teaspoon out the back door than a man can bring in the front door with a shovel.)
How about your personal appearance at home, or in public? Are you a good sport? Are you punctual, cheerful, uncomplaining. Do you insist on always having your own way? Do you show as much courtesty and consideration for his relatives as you do for your own? Are you willing for him to be the head of your home? Are you willing to follow his leadership?

After we have tried to become better acquainted with our own personality, and understand our attitudes more clearly, then tomorrow I want to discuss "Understanding Our Mate." I know you will enjoy tomorrow's blog. I can't wait!

What Can We Do?

That's an interesting question. When things are well out of order and there's no fire in us?

Do what we can do to change it!

If we do what we can do....

God will do what we can't do!

Genesis 32:22

It's time we can do it!

Magnify the good stuff!!!!! Happy Wednesday!

Reverence

Reverence to your husband is more than an outward form, for it is an inner attitude. We reverence him because we love him. (Titus 2:4) Both husband and wife are commanded to love each other. But we should be aware that while she is commanded to love her husband, the husband is commanded three times to love his wife. (Eph. 5:24-33). The bible tells us that LOVE is of God. So, we realize that only a great love given of God will bind the hearts of husband and wife in the highest concept of true love. A marriage that is built on true biblical love will never fail. Practice love!
(& Reference!! : )

There's That Word Again: LOVE!

Today, we can do no greater thing than to create and maintain an atmospehere of love in our homes. We must remember that love which spoils and pampers, also weakens and hampers. Real love will strengthten and help one to be free to grow and to mature.

One little corner for love is all we need.....
A shoulder to cry on, a Bible to read....
A chair by the window with sun coming through....
Perhaps some love and pretty spring flowers still covered with dew....
Who'll warm this home with love each and every day.......
I've decided to be the one and know lots of love will not stray!!

Don't be the one who forgets the benefits and loving care you can give in your adulthood. God will give you help to spread that love and you will definitely know He will give you more love to extend to those family members that need the love you have straight from God! Enjoy your Monday!

Sympathy & Prayers

My prayers go out today to Terry and Robin Storch who just recently lost their thirteen old precious neice, Taylor Storch in the ski accident in Vail, Co. My sympathy, love, and prayers to them during this oh so sad time. And for the rest of the family. Our deep sympathy. Please take time out to pray for this family. The funeral is Tuesday in Coppell.

Healthy Self-Image

Looked in the mirror lately?

Don't like what you see?

Change it! Do you have a healthy self-image?

Dare to be a Proverbs 31 lady.....read, read, read it. It's so amazing. In fact, you are amazing! I always felt I wasn't desirable enough, no valuable to be loved. I faced those same fears and doubts that you do. I believe they were reinforced in your life because of the actions of someone expecting to dispell them! You are valuable!

You have a great healthy self-image and DO NOT let anyone tear it down! Your beauty astounds God!! Hold your head up high and be so happy in knowing your self-worth is beyond comprehension! I believe in you! Have a super great Saturday!

Remember - Everyone Wants To Be Somebody

I want to be a difference-maker in someone's day, week, or even life, sending tha person down the path of a better existence. What encourages you? It's difficult to encourage people if you don't know what encourages them. Sometimes I go to the Mall just to "study people." And I always want to know what lifts them up.

I was chomping on a delicious carrot last night and one of the fillings came out of my tooth. I just hope our Dentist isn't on spring break and is in his office today. We've been going to him forever. But he does love to play golf, so I covet your prayers. Oh dear God, help me through this one! I appreciate any and all encouragement! And oh, do those prayers feel so good! : = )

"Jolly" Peeps

This morning I am late writing my blog. I had tea with a charming lady....oooops a jolly lady who was so delightful! Her hubs was having their income tax done and we were so I enjoyed talking to her while we waited!!! She has had humpteen (OK lango)surgeries; hip replacement, bone in her foot, back re-replacement (twice) and had gorgeous hair, nails and personality! She kept asking me what I wanted out of life now that we are retired........she had such an avid interest in me; I feel spoiled! Sometime in April we are going to a genuine lady "tea party." Wish I could take my daughter and granddaughter because when they were about 3-ish years of age I had tea parties on their play sets at least three or four times a week. We would put hats on and jewelry to look real grown up! I know I will have to dress up for this event, but I'm thrilled to be asked to go!!!!

I hope this encourages you like it did me. Someone sought me out to invite. I was always the one that invited ooodles and bunches to Outreach at church and NOW IT'S ME!!! Oh, do I ever feel important! Have a happy Thursday and enjoy this sunshine today!

Encouragement is a Miracle!

More friends have been made by the miracle of encouragement!

Happy St. Pat's Day! Gotta get that in!

It just means taking the spotlight off self and giving someone else a high-five and saying "You can do it!"

Yesterday I was "tested" on my positive attitude! Oh, how I love it! That means I am doing the right thing. There is greater effort under a spirit of encouragement than under a spirit of criticism. I believe in my teammates and what you value; it makes us all better when we check our attitude - it takes me to a whole new level! If your day always seems to go bad all the time; there's something you can do about it! #1 pick up the Bible and read it! It has answers to life's delimas. Instead of dwelling on the horrific, look for answers! Attempt the impossibilities and make them possibilities! You say, "How?" Turn it into something possible that will work!!!

Happy Wednesday!!!!

There are things you can do to make it better!!!!

I have a family member who refuses to make things better. She dwells on the bad stuff, thinks she knows all the answers, and thinks she is right. I do not want this to be a negative blog....I promise....but pretty soon she will find herself with no one around. Today's unthinkables are tomorrow's victories!!!

Life is too short to harbor ill fate to family members. Think of what she is missing out on because we grow through tough times. (Rom. 5:3, 4, 5) Hope is anchored in Grace which produces character and perserverance.

Now you get to see God do the amazing things....You have what it takes to make it better! Go for it!!!