Great News!!!!!

Did you know God will come so close to you when you ask Him to? When you read your Bible and commune with Him: 1) I am nourished by His Word! 2)He surrounds me with His presence like the fragrance of roses in full bloom. His presence goes beyond all limits. It surpasses all else. it is stronger and more powerful than any mountain!

I'm learning to heed His guidance rather than react unwisely to whatever comes my way.

Trusting in God

I wonder, do we really trust God?

When we do, a huge weight of responsibility has lifted from my shoulders. As I completely, nconditionally, with no reservations, place my trust in Him; I feel new joy in my life.

The Bible says "Thou will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the Lord forever for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength." Isiah 26:3-4.

It's mandatory to trust in God and invigorated anticipation to have Him as our guidance. My heart takes delight becuase I trust in you, God, you are my holy God....I praise You for how your mercy toward me is like no other. Your love is eternal, I place all my trust and hope in You God!

I need to get ready for FNDN.....let's see what should I plan? Something simple is what I want.

BBF

Friends help you through the good times!

I give God honor and glory but I have helped people all my life.

Now I'm ready for BBF's to hear what they have to say. This will be fun, enjoyable and even my hubby is looking forward to meeting my BBF's. Thank you honey....yea...you are so supportive, loving and happy for me!

I Peter 5:10 "And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered for a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast."

Idea of a BFF

What is your idea of what a friend should be like?

Do you think a friend should give her opinion?

Why don't friends stick together?

Lies, bad attitudes toward the other friend, why??????

We'll find out. When we meet....we can find the answers.

Need more to sign up. Looking forward to having you in our home at our dining room table for your sharing. Yea!!! There will be much fun, I promise! I need to hear from your though. Let's move ahead! My hubby is so excited that I am doing this; it's been a dream of mine, I promise.

Three BFF's

Thank you Lord. I have three BFF's who signed up to be Best Friends Forever. of course, Geneva is the only one that announces on my blog. Some people choose to be "closet best friends" - hmmmm please stay with me, and don't drop out. Thanks!

Every friend has her niche. One girl is a great cross country runner, one is a talented painter. Another Corporate Staff Member. It makes me feel like they are not strange or isolated. I am blessed to have such cool friends.

I'm organizing a BFF. It might take some time, but please stay with me; I would like a few more. Love ya Best Friends!!!! We will all be blessed! I promise!

Word of encouragement: Spread a little love around today; even if it's left over candy kisses from Christmas!!!!!

BFF

If you are reading this, you are my BFF - Best Friend Forever!!!

Can't do without you.

My home is open to you. May my room always be open for you!

I can trust my friends......Y'all force me to examine myself, encourage me to grow!

A true friend is on call 24/7.

You are my BFF - my own personal guardian angel!

Girlhood friendships give me a model to keep trying to recreate my life for the best!

Friends get you through bad times and help you enjoy the good times.

I don't need much.....I need my friends, my husband and kids, my dog, and my Bible.

Wanna go with me as we love the Bible together as BFF? Proverbs says "A friend loveth at all times." I wanna hear from you, my BF (Best Friend)....Love, Carol

My Heart

I am going to take some time off from blogging. Every one that knows me know this is my LOVE, my HEART. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE BLOGGING! My brain needs some time off, so I am going to sparcely write blogs. I hope you are still there when this time is over. With all the writing I've been helping my husband with on "Making Love Work" I need some "brain time." It breaks my heart to do this, but I must. Thank you for staying with me. I'll be back real soon. Have a very happy Thursday and may God supply every single need you have.

Time

Time is our friend, our greatest benefactor. It is a philosopher's staff; it is the magic that lifts the crushing burden from our shoulders and makes smooth the rough placed in life.

Take time to be in the Bible. It's the greatest way to have enough time to have all challenges work in your life. I love my Bible and what the scriptures say.

The New Year 2011

Psalm 65:11 is my scripture.

My resolution: Healthy foods

Work on Hobby

Have coffee with lady friends

Love more

Write more and more and more on my new book

Have JOY in life not just occasionally, but more daily!

Keep worry out!!!

Pray for needs to be met and my hubby and I need this badly!!

How about you? Enjoy the Lord's Day TODAY!!!!

Happy New Year!!!

Should the Lord refined me like a precious metal. Now I pray, allow me to offer You a pure heart as a sacrifice of praise and New Year of service!

I know the Holy Spirit will go with me. He will give me strength to pass the test and I will give Him honor and glory.

New Year's Resolution....hmmmmm Not sure yet. How about you?

Help

Thank you Lord for helping me to stop struggling on my own, to place everything in Your hands. I felt like I was trying to paddle a boat with only one oar. You show me the right decisions to make, when to stop trying to do anything and most of all how to depend on you. I feel new joy in my life.

Thank you Lord for your help. Thanks to the Lord who helps each one of us.

Goodness

How tender and sure Your goodness. When I need a friend, you send one who is loving and true. When I seek advice, you provide it in your Word.

You bless me with my spouse Children fill my quiver. How could I be more favored?

When I fall, you are there to pick me up. When I'm weak, you are strong for me. When I'm in trouble, you help me through Thank you for being so good.

Exodus 34:6-7 And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed. The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in good ness and truth. Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving any tansgression and sin.

Enjoy Your Presents & Presence!!!!

I got presents for Christmas of course! They all fit, they are just wanted I wanted and I will wear most of them so wonderfully!!!!!


I really enjoy the presence of God watching over our family and giving us peace, hope, love, and joy!

My heart is so enriched for what the Christmas Season has brought this year. How about you?

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Today I concentrate on cooking Christmas Eve. This is our Christmas day!
We pray for you a very blessed and happy Christmas. My blog is my loving morning task. Love each one of you and send hugs, prayers, and blessings today and your MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Christmas Prayer

What do you see in me, dear Lord, that I could be used to serve you? I feel honored that you called me. Whatever you ask of me, I will do.

Encourage someone? Yes, Lord.

Brighten someone's day? Yes, Lord.

Praise you, Lord and say Yes? Yes Lord!

Thank you for accepting my strengths and weaknesses. Yes Lord.

Take me Lord, use me. Let me glorify your name.

Whatever you ask of me, I will do.

Because I know your grace is sufficient for my every need. II Cor. 12:9-10

Thank you for being born this beautiful Christmas Day. Thank you! Amen

Hurts & Bitterness!!!

There are so many women that carry hurt and bitterness. They fail even with help. I am learning to retrieve the lively, warm fires and to leave the sad, cold ashes behind.

Jeremiah 2(:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Call upon Him, pray with Him and He will listen to you! Forgiveness lingers like a healing balm. How dear, and how marvelous. Thank you Lord.

Overcoming Issues!!!!

Have you done everything you can to overcome your issues that you face? Are you frustrated, exhausted and at the end of your rope? Release all those things to the Lord. He is waiting patiently for you, ready to take charge of your life.

Just place it in His hands. Stop struggling. His love is eternal. Place all your trust and hope in Him!

A continuation..............from Friday's blog!!!

May God bring joy to each one of you as you ready yourself for Christmas. Keep snuggled up close to the Lord and give Him honor and glory in all things!

Peace & Joy of Mind!

A working mother loses peace of mind. She has little time for her family. Her mind's too preocupied with her job, her work problems, her responsibilities away from home. So she feels guilty. Especially when it's time to rush tow ork and one of the kids has a sore throat and the babysitter calls to say that she can't come.

But there are rewards of Motherhood. I still believe God's idea for Moms is to stay focused on peace and joy of mind! You have two vital jobs, home and Company. I always hope and pray the weekends aren't rough! All the things that have to be done. I trained our kids in strong character, responsible, and respect for elders, teachers or any adults that expect super attitudes. It worked. Both our kids are so smart in decision skills and very joyful staff members. May God bless Moms and all our kids as we all pray for each other to have peace and joy of mind!!!

There's Power In God's Love!

Each deep scar tells of a battle that has been won!
But there is still lessons in healing He wants us to learn.
A hert was breaking deep inside.
A trembling life, beaten, torn.

God tenderly touches with His power!
Healed the broken heart once more.
He made the soul strong again!
The soul will never be the same.
God brought needed character,
To praise and GLORIFY the Power in His love!

Have you felt it? It is my JOY for this day!
Thank you for your power, God and your amazing love!

Early To Bed, Early To Rise!!!

This means I have had plenty of sleep and am up ready to get the day started. Sometimes I totally believe I am the ONLY person up at this time of the day. We are having friends over Friday night and I'm excited! The menu is Mexican Cuisine and it will be delicious. Who wants to go out to eat when homemade is so delicious??
We need the friendship and fellowship. So, today being Wednesday and the event will be two more days, how will mine or your Wednesday be?

My Wednesday begins with the word! I'm thanking the Lord for His forgiveness, love, and JOY He gives me. He never holds a grudge against me. Instead, I know my sins are completely washed away. His love is far greater than how high the Heavens are above this little round ball caled Earth. His love stretches farther than the east is from the west. Thank you for the Joy You give me this Christmas to help others and be so blessed!!! Romans 8:28 "All things work together for those that love the Lord." Bring on Friday, Lord....that will be another "Early Rising!!!" : )

A Jolly Christmas!!!!!

And what does that mean? It means a Joyful Christmas. Don't let the hum-bad-gripes from anyone get to you!!! Yesterday I was talking to my Sister who lives out of state and the conversation was ba-hum-bug....so I put a stop to it! I was so proud of me. Listen....it's bad enough to have to pray that God supplies every tiny bit of needful things...so why should I want to sit and discuss ba-hum-bug! I want a joyful Christmas...JOLLY...laughter...fun...more laughter..just having God meet every need. And He will!!!! I pray and hope your Christmas will be jolly!!!!

Take a dose of Hebrews 10:24-25 "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another." I'm willing. Are you?

100 Joys!!!!!

Sarah Markley has 100 Joys going on her blog. Her blog is the very best I have ever read. She is an extraordinary writer and such a lovely person!!! I've been finding JOY every single day, hour, and minute to be a part. There are so many issues that happen that turn to joy if only we will let them.

Joy, true joy that comes from me, given through Christ gives me songs of praise and scriptures flow from my heart. I fall asleep with a prayer trailing from my lips with joy and awaken with a hymn of praise flowing through my mind. You, Lord, are my joy and strength.

The more joy I pass on to others, the more the Lord refills my well with unquenchable joy! Everlasting joys and peace. Thank you, God! And thank you Sarah, for being such a vital blessing to me (my hubby also) as he has retired from Senior Pastoring 38 years!!! Be blessed with a JOYOUS CHRISTMAS & definitely JOYOUS New Year!!!

Where Are The Encouragers?

Encouragement changes everything. You are blessed and always blessed! Helps you focus on the important of valuing and growing relationships.

I want to be an Encourager and I pray to God I am. I give Him the glory for making me this way!!!!

So Happy!!!!

Although the morning snapped with frost, the sunny day made doing chores and FNDN easy. Near dinnertime, a knock came at the door. A kind looking man appeared weary from travel. He was selling Christmas trees. It would make me happy to buy one, but I don't trust someone just driving by to sell something.

So, we put our lil' movie in and were so happy, discussing the events to come. It's important to communicate with hubby for future plans. We live on faith, so we really have to keep together on what we are doing. We're just so happy we can be of help, still, and be used of God.

How about you? Are you happy? Is this going to be a super Christmas for you and your family? It's a joy to blog and share some of our blessings and joy! I'm still getting comments on e-mail. I hope my comments portion is working. But, then I know a lot of other bloggers who do not get comments, so I'm just going to praise God for who I know read my blogs. God blesses me by keeping happiness!!!!

Denying........

Too negative for me. When people deny constantly that they "didn't say it." How can joy be in peep's life when they deny issues that they do not want to resolve? I call upon God for wisdom. Each day I thank Him for guidance in handling these kind of situations. Thank you Lord for how you help me tell about your Love. I treasure the Lord's leading as I share His lessons and rise each morning to face a new day. I write your words on plaques (in fact we have one hanging when you first open the front door.) that say "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15

Thank you Lord for helping me never compromise the standards you have set for me. I praise You for cautioning me to be kind and generous, honest and wise in speech. Thank you for strength as I strive to be a good example.

How about you? Do you have a problem with people denying?

Depending On God!!!!

I am depending on God to remain close to us this Christmas. With my hubby not feeling well, it is more important to get his medicines all in order so he can feel better.

The Lord is righteous in all His ways,
and holy in all His works.
The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him,
to all that call upon Him in truth.

Keep calling on Him. He is there!!!!

Appreciation For Aged

Thank you, Father, for our aged Christians and the wisdom we share. Thank you for our steadfast prayer lives that help carry out miracle after miracle. Thank you for letting us build on even the elderly good and bad.

I praise You, too, for persons who are never ready to retire from working in His Kingdom. How beautiful are those who adopt the younger to help, giving loving, nourishing care. That would be my hubby and I. Thank you for letting us have the courage to help and those that need help want help. We trust in God for His goodness.
Proverbs 6:20ff

Got Friendship

Yesterday a lady that was in our church took me to lunch. It was a blessing. It's nice to think someone still remembers the blessings and great things that occured in our life!

It was good for me to go with a person and have fellowship. When trials attack my life, friendship buffers me from peril. He helps me escape before I face other things. It was great and I am very thankful to be remembered! Happy Tuesday everyone!

True Joy!!!!!

This joy comes from you Lord. I can't quit telling others about this JOY He gives me. His songs of praise and Bible verses from from my heart. I fall asleep with a prayer awaken with a hymn of praise, and you, Lord gives me joy and strength. In good times and bad I have learned to praise you, Lord. As my praises soar upward to You, new continuing joy fills my heart like an artesian well. The more joy I pass on to others, the more , Lord you refill my well with unquenchable joy!

True Beauty of The Heart

A glad heart makes a cheerful countenance.

Kind, gentle,pure,loving, and thankful thoughts, springing from a heart of love, create true beauty of face. We will not be loved primarily for our lily-white hands and school girl complexion but for what we are - for what we think and do. A thankful heart, like the one expressed in our life improves one's complexion.

You can become beautiful as you ask the Lord to remove you fears, your tensions, your grudges, your bitterness, your discontent and your sins. He'll replace these undesirable traits and emotions with His love, His kindness, His forgiveness, His joy, and His peace.

True beauty of the heart!

HOPE

This week I talked to some women who have no hope. My heart goes out to them. You have to HANG ON to Hope.

Jeremiah 29:11-12 gives hope and a future....

I love the Lord for His kindness and patience with me when I worry about the what-ifs. I thank him for reminding me often not to worry. Fear dos not come from the Lord. I'm in His hands; He knows my needs before I even ask. I know His Spirit dwells within me. He is my only Hope. While I enjoy your hope, thank you Lord, for helping me to keep reaching out for the lost who have no hope.

Such JOY!!!

I put an all points post on FB that I was grateful for friends who are always there and our friend, Geneva was the one I was hoping would comment and she did!!! Come on...that's a God thing. Due to the phone conversations I had to make yesterday, I needed her to be a part. Wow!!!! What do you do when you see the hand of God exactly perfectly on target? I have tons of JOY and can't help but praise God for His workings! Thanks Geneva!!!! Bless you!!

Love 102

Praise God for the love of hubby, family and friends! We're almost finished with the notes!!! Woohoo. God helps on a daily basis to keep on moving ahead. Thank you Lord for helping us moment by moment. Happy Thursday everyone!

His Eye Is On The Sparrow

And He watches over us!!!!

Thank the Lord for reminding us of His Word abaout life everlasting. His eye is on the sparrow and He knows the hairs covered on your head.

Thank you Lord for Your comfort. I will serve and praise you with all my heart. How about you? Are you serving Him? He is our great and mighty God!!!

Praise You Because Of His Confidence

Who knows all the movement of God's Spirit other than You? Can any see what Your planes are for the future? Does one person know the day of His return? There is no one.

I cannot fathom it....I only know You are my everlasting God. You never grow faint or weary in caing for any of us. His strength goes beyond all other means as we depend on Him. Even with all our technology, He is even greater. He controls the balanc eof it all.

Thank You for how You give me strength as I wait upon you for confidence.

This is why I praise you, Father. Through Your strength, I can run and not be weary. I can walk and not faint!

Inspiration

We grow neither better nor worse as we get old, but more like ourselves.

by May L. Becker

Depending On Him!

Praise be to You, O Lord! How blessed I am for trusting and obeying you! What peace I have in delighting in your Word. In knowing and depending on you, I am free from all that worry and frustration. I'm free to experience a life of victory in you!

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because He trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the Lord forever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength.
Isaiah 26:3-4

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!!!!

We have a fabulous day planned! Sooooo thankful for our two kids and love, love, love them!!! And are VERY thankful for them!!!! THEY ARE SO THOUGHTFUL AND GRATEFUL!!! Marvelous!!!! So close a family!!! Hope your's is also!!!

What Are We Thankful For?

I'm thankful for my hubby, my kids, our devoted friends, and the families that live so far away. I'm thankful most of all for God's amazing grace that carries me through! I'm thankful we have the freedom to have our Bible with us. I sure wouldn't want to live in a country where they are not ok.

I love Thanksgiving and can't wait to see our family and be so grateful. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your's and may God bless you greatly!!!

Thankfulness

2 more days!!! Are you thankful?

I am. We couldn't make it if we weren't. Every morning I am the most thankful person on earth! God blesses us as we abide in His will. We get so many prayers for us and God has His protection on us. Still serving God....still helping others. We are VERY thankful to our God for His provision, care, and love! I'm also very thankful for the every drop of food on our table. Thank you Lord, so very thankful!

Prayers

Just ask God for prayers for families during the Holiday Season. God knows all about families and what they are going through. May He bless your home with so many blessings and supply your's and our needs. At that point, I am very grateful for the answers to prayer to happen! Always pray or/and journal your prayers. Then cross out when the prayer is answered. Blessings today to you!

A Need To Share As Women

Sharing makes us understanding of the problems involved. What I'm trying to say is just this: In every age and in every culture women need each other to share, to comfort, to enccourage,, to help, to care. And if this is lacking there are serious consequences affecting not only the woman herself, but her home, her husband, each child and consequently her community and church. Strained relationships, sharp criticism, lack of appreciation, and wrong attitudes begin building up in minds. Molehills become mountains if women do not share.

Sharing reveals workable solutions as each listens to another's "how I solved it."

Sharing brings release as each unloads and air some concerns.

Sharing strengthens each other and thos who know God pray together. Asking for wisdom from God in sharing is the bottom line. Your take on this. I would love to hear it! Happy Lord's day!

Continued Contentment

Please send comments on why you are not content? I would love to blog that with you! Happy Saturday!!!! Enjoy your time off work! Thank you for reading my blog. I appreciate you!!!

Be Content!!!

Are you content?

Now be honest! When did you gripe last about those things beyond your control? You're too short, or too tall. You don't like the community you live in. You wish your husband would get a raise.

According to the dictionary, the word "content" is derived from a Latin word which means to hold together.

If you are content you are organized. Your thoughts are holding together in the situation. You think clearly about the situation. You keep in focus the true values of life. You need to hold together to be content, with yourelf with just who you are, with the unique personality qualities, and talents God has assigned to you!

You exist as you are. So accept yourself. Be content!

Just Congratulations!!!!

Today is our 43rd wedding Anniversary!!! Wooo hooo!!!! Would you believe someone gave us a gift card to Outback.....we will be going at lunch since it's more economical!!! See ya tomorrow!!!!

What is a Grandmother?

little bit teacher
little bit best friend
loving,
kind,
cheer grandkids on!!!!!
What feeling in all the world is so nice to have my grandchild's hand in mine? It is soft, small and warm. It is as innocent and guileless as a rabbit or a puppy or a kitten huddling in the shelter of my clasp!

Looking through the world through the eyes of a child.

The notes that are left that say "I love you grandma."

Can't you tell? I love it!!!! I have a lot of friends who are Grandmas....woohoo These darling precious angels are such a heart of deep love and watching them grow is the very best!!!! Fabulous!!!!

Being Happy!!!!!!!!!

What makes you happy?

Some ladies are happy just being home bodies. Not me...I have to GET OUT! I am a people person so I have to wander out and see what is up in the world! A friend of mine says she is happy just staying home and staring at the walls. Oh, no, not me. It would be "housebound" for me and I would feel closed in.

It makes me happy to check on people and see how they are doing. God can help me make their day. Not that I want all of the glory, I just keep thinking they may need encouraged! That makes me happy! ...and the grass is always greener on the other side! I've been studying Habakkuk, so I need to not only be happy reading this book in the Bible but if I can let Christ shine through me, so be it!!!!

A Precious Daughter!!!

I purely love so deeply our daughter. She is always taking time out if she thinks we need to talk and it hearts me because I miss her greatly!

We talked yesterday and just had a marvelous time. How about you? Do you have a daughter you can confide in and she has super support for you? I sure do and this morning I am just saying "Thank you Lord for raising a daughter who is so giving of her preciousness, love and amazing thoughts." We both needed it!

Seek First To Be Understood

When you understand where people are coming from, what they are trying to say, what's important to them, and what they are trying to say, what's important to them, and so forth, being understood flows naturally; it falls into place with virtually no effort. Communication will break down, and you may end up with a battle of two minds.

I worked with a couple who spent the first ten years of being frustrated, arguing about their finances. he couldn't understand why she wanted to save every penny they earned, and she couldn't understand why he was a spend-thrift. After working with them, they have a nice balance between spending and saving. Seeking first to understand!

This will translate into better, loving relationships. Seeking to be understood....is the key to problems, victories, and a happy living!

Obedience is an Act of Faith

Essential element of our relationship with Him!

Romans 1:5.....believe and obey Him, bringing glory to His name.

God wants us to do everything He commands us to do.

Acts of Kindness

Even the smallest acts of kindness and encouragement can multiply inthe lives of others, snowballing into something bigger than we ever could have imagined!

You have never tested God's resources until you have attempted the impossible!

WHAT IS YOUR ACT OF KINDNESS?

Today I've been invited to a lady's jewelry making show. I would never have enough in my budget to buy anything, but I can go encourage her by being there since she has invited me so many times. So, that should be fun. Of course, I will save my energy for FNDN!!!!! yea!!!!

Being a Grandma

I offer a smile of delight; tons and tons of love, a soft cheek to snuggle, a warm embrace, and proud cheers! Love transends!

I cherish the change to see a new generation grow, prticipate in our grandkid's explorations and experiences with enthusiasm, and quiet comfort at every stage!

I love to gather words of appreciation and wisdom, to know it flows across the generations. I get to reaffirm my bond because of my past with Grandma's, reflecting on the past to inspire the future!

I love this part of my life!!!!! How about you?

Great Accomplishments!!

I corinthians 4:7 says we are no better than anyone else. All we all hve is God so why boast that you are the best!

There is a healthy satisfaction from accomplishment, which includes thanksgiving to God for what He has done through us. But it is arrogance to think we did the deed all by ourselves.

Give God the glory for all accomplishments! Yea!!! That's what I suggest! It works so great!

Wow!!!! Happiness is.........

Getting so many comments on my Facebook. Yesterday I heard from so many friends and it made so happy!!! I am a "keep in touch" friend and when I hear, I just bust out in excitement all over the place!!! It sure makes me feel like they care and want what's best for me!!! Yea.....it's spilling over in joy and happinesss even today as I begin the day! Thanks everyone!!!!

Give God Your Faith

God does not look at your past mistakes and exclude you from His promises. Neither does God give you His promises on the basis of any good works. It is your faith in Him that brings God's promises to you.

God doesn't look at your Resume. He isn't impressed with your cuteness or your cleverness. God says, "if you will give me your faith, I will give you more for your future."

Romans 8:1....no condemnation ....walk according to the Spirit!

Great Evening!!!

Chef Hubby ended up having just chili and crackers...no macaroni which was delich!!!!!!! Yummy....Baby, it's cold outside so it was delightful tasting. We watched the sitcom "Office" which I stayed awake for the entire 30 minutes. My eyes have automatic shuts when the TV is on. It always puts me to sleep, especially if I have eaten anything sweet.

Great evening! Ended with a phone call to us from our daughter, so I can honestly say the evening flew by!!!!

I'm thinking of changing my blog. I get so many comments about how positive I am, so I want to make my blog more personal and actually get some community involved. If we're not honest with each other and share, how do we learn to get over some of the pitfalls that wouldn't last as long if we just knew we're not alone...other women go through the same ills and great things that help women not get stuck in the same ole, same ole. What do you think? If you won't comment on this, plug in an e-mail to me so I can hear your heart! Happy Saturday!!!! And, by the way, FNDN was incredible!!!

Why Not Tell The Truth? (Cont'd) Thursday 4th & Friday 5th

Why do people lie?

Acts 20:30 says some will distort the truth in order to draw a following.

To become popular. In acts 5, Ananias brought part of the money to the Apostles, but claimed it was the full amount.

To make selves look good.

God is truth, so lying is in opposition to God. Truth always seeks what is right and good. Lying always seeks to cover up the truth. Proverbs 6:16-17 six things the Lord HATES - no seven....lies, haughty eyes, a lying tongue!

I would say women lie whenever they attempt to deceive God, others and their own self!

Truth stands the test of time; lies are soon exposed!

Priorities

What should be my highest priority?

To love God!

Mark 12:29-30 tells us how to develop the right priorities!

Seeking God and doing His will should be our first priority and will helpput all of our other priorities in order.

Proverbs 14:26 Those who fear the Lord are secure; He will be a place of refuge for their children.

Right priorities bring true happiness, joy, delight, and an abundant life.

What are your priorities? I will share mine: God (to keep my life balanced), my huband is next, then comes the kids, and then I prioritize my daily life. My home fits in there. Planning the evening meal, etc. Love, love, love priorities.

What does the Bible say about drugs?

II Peter 2:19
....you are a slave to whatever controls you.

And that is your MASTER.
If God is your Master, He will raise you up and encourage you, but drugs will only tear you down and make you a slave to their addictive power.

Have a happpy Monday!

Priorities Concerning The Pursuit of Achievements

Living by God's plan should be a higher priority than personal achievement.
Mark 10:31
Proverbs 3:6 Seek His will in all you do, and He will direct your paths.

Priorities are the scales on which our love for God is weighed. We focus most on what or whom we love most!

Let The Mind Of Christ Be In You

God cares a great deal about how we think! He wants us to be whole in our minds. That's why His word says, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." Philippians 2:5

Let your thoughts reflect Christ.

Let His creative ideas become your's.

Let His attitudes become your's.

Let His behavior become your's.

Enjoy your awesome Saturday!!!

Study His Word!

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!

He designed us so that our deepest form of restoration, replenishment, and refreshment to come closer in relationship to Him. I love it!!!!

How about you? What are you studying in His Word at this time?

My study is in Philippians!!! So full of praises!

Miracles

Miracles are visible signs that only God can perform that help us know Him and see His hand in our life.

Isiah 41:19-20 - read it.....it is the Lord, the Holy One of Israel, who did it!!!!!

Look for miracles. I do. If you have received one, let me know. I'd love to hear.

Finding The Courage To Face Change

Loving confrontation is different from argumental. Conflict is inevitable; when it arises, true cooperation seeks the highest good for all. Change may be part of God's plan for us. If so, we can trust God to take care of us through the changes. Exodus 4:13 Admitting our mistakes and sins opens the door to forgiveness and helps restore relationships. Are you ready? Go for it! Now!!

Good Model For Accomplishing Things

Ecclesiastes 4:9 Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor.

It is impossible for one person to play a duet or trio. It is hard to play football or soccer without teamwork. It is hard to have a happy marriage if only one mate works at it. Two people can actually do more than twice as much as one - as long as they are pulling in the same direction.

Is it wrong to be proud of our accomplishments?

There is a healthy satisfaction from accomplishment, which includes thanksgiving to God for what He has done through us. It gets to be arrogance to think we did the deed all by ourselves. Pat someone on the back that has helped you in some way. Enjoy your Tuesday in God's protection!

Is It Wrong To Be Proud Of Our Accomplishments?

There is a healthy satisfaction from accomplishment, which includes thanksgiving to God for what He has done through us. But it is arrogance to think we did the deed all by ourselves. (I Cor. 4:7)

With God's help we can do MIGHTY things!!

Earn God's Acceptance

How?

We canot earn God's acceptance. But His acceptance is available for free to you and everyone. All we do is believe that His Son, Jesus, died for our sins so that we could be free to enjoy eternal life with Him. When we accept his forgiveness and ask Him to be the very Lord of our life, He completely accepts us into His presence.

Romans 3:27 is a great scripture for this: "Can we boast, then, that we have done anythig to be accepted by God? No, because our acquittal is not based on our good deeds, it is based on our faith."

Happiness to Others

The Lord Himself is the wellspring of true happiness.

The more we love him, know Him, walk with Him, and become like Him,

The great our happiness.

Try it, you will like it!

Psalm 146:5 "Happy are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is the Lord their God."

Happiness to God

Can we finite; sinful human beings truly bring joy and delight to the Lord, the Creator of the Universe. Yes, and it is simple, though not easy.

We bring delight to God by honoring Him.

Obeying Him

Responding to His love

Seeking His forgiveness

Walking daily with Him

Zephaniah 3:17 "The Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty Savior. He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With His love, He will calm all your fears. He will exalt over you by singing a happy song!"

Good Decisions

Yea I love comments...thanks Geneva for yesterday's.

But, for today.......How do we know we've made a good decision?

II Timothy 3;16 All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right.

You always make the right decision when you follow the commands God has given in the Bible. Also, always check your motives - are you deciding based on what you want or on what is best for others? Are you making a decision that is helping others or hurting them?

Your decisions determine your actions and your actions show what is in your heart.

Finding Strength To Go On

Psalm 46:1-2 - "God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear, even if earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea."

What does it mean to fear God?
Because God is so great and mighty and because He holds the power of life and death in His hands. We must have a healthy, reverent fear of Him. A healthy fear helps us keep our perspective about where we need to be in our relationship with God.

When is fear not good?
Fear is not good if it kees us from doing the things we ought to do. We are not meant to live in fear.

Rely on Isaiah 41:10 "Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand."

Love

Love explains itself!

The Bible says "God so loved the world....." John 3:16 Do we really believe that. It comes from God! We keep close to Him so that He can shine His love through us. That's how I get my vision is through the fact that He gives me all the love I need to comprehend that some need Him in a great way.

How about you? Where does loving God stand with you? Have you ever felt unloved?

Coffee Time!!!

It's time we take a check on how coffee are we drinking. Yesterday I had a real interesting conversation with a lady that has a cup of coffee she drinks all day...she goes to Starbuck's and gets the largest cup and sips on it all day. My question is would it be fresh all day? It makes me wonder if she heats it up in the microwave each time she sips? Oh well, to each her own!!! I drink two cups a day and I can tell it has made a difference!!!

I'm doing a study on Habakkuk and in verse 2, he says "Oh Lord how long shall I cry, and though wilt not hear." I believe we must still cry out to God and He will hear. He is always here to help us any time, hour. Rely on Him! A big encouragement to you...rely on Him. Don't let the opportunity to go by but that He gives you your strength, joy, and health. Stay close to Him and don't give up!

Be Encouraged!!!

Just be encouraged! Let yourself have this happen.
1. Thank God you have friends who care.
2. Have a relationship with your friend.
3. What's keeping you from it?
4. Tell yourself you have a friend who cares.
5. Prov. says a friend loveth at all times.
6. Enjoy worshipping the Lord today!
7. Be grateful for friends!!!!!

My brain is fried from doing some writing on our marriage material.
Enjoy being encouraged and accept it!
Love, Prayers, and Peace!!!!

Do You Need Encouragement?

The question of the hour. We all can say sure we do! But do we? I can promise I do. Even when I even see the word, I know I can't wait to see what God gives me to say because I know I need encouragement! Some people do not know how to give it. And that's too bad. I think that's a cop out.....try living without encouragement one week...you will be miserable.

Last night hubby and I watched a baseball game and I kept thinking oh if they just had a little bit more encouragement may they would win!

I'm encouraged by Bible verses that I find and I've been a Christian for a long time, but see them and wonder why I hadn't seen them before. I'm doing a study on I Timothy. Very interesting. Enjoy your Saturday.

Has God Been Good To You?

As I awaken each day, and do most of my praying in the morning, wonder about that question, has God been good to you? I blog with six ladies and I see their spiritual yearnings and pretty much know. But what about you do you look at God and know that He is accomplishing something in your life.

In helping people, I rely on God one zillion percent!!! Yes, he's been good to me and my biggest need is to stay on keeping mind stayed on how really good God has been to me. Romans 8:28 is my favorite scripture. It puts me in the thank you mode because I know God has been good to me; I cannot deny it! Happy Friday!!

Develop The Leader In You

I learn a lot from our kids. Seeing the amazing leadership they have. It's such a joy and happiness as a Mom as we have observed their brilliant things they do. Of course they will humbly say, "Ah Mom....." and not brag on self. But as a Mom, I love to know we raised kids that truly are leaders!!! Wow!

What You Need To Know To Encourage People

Provide community to people who desire meaningful relationships

Be an example because people seek models to follow.

Helm them win because people want to be associated with success

Encourage someone downhearted.

Speak to their needs first.

Listen to them; they need to be understood.

Show them hope; there needs to be a better tomorrow.

Confidence because people are insecure.

Quote your favorite scripture and help them to begin reading the Bible.

This works! Let me know if you tried any and did they work?

Amazing Grace!!!!!

Yes, God's grace shines through. Have you asked Him lately for His special grace?
I have! I received an answer last night. And yes, His grace is amazing! Like the song says, Amazing grace how sweet the sound!!!

In a nutshell: I looked beyond my worthlessness; He patiently sanded away,
And like gold did refine this soul of mine.
Cleansing me day by day!
It's definitely a witness of His great love and grace!

How about you? Have you felt His amazing grace? Tell me about it.

Attitudes!!!!!

I've seen people so happy and then all of a sudden a bad attitude will appear. I have decided to not let it get to me. I spent years trying to figure out why people bring bad atttiudes for no reason. I think some people just don't care. The Bible says "Be content." If you can't change the situation, just keep your attitude happy or stable! Have you ever walked up to someone and you weren't sure their attitude would be sour and rude? Oh, I have many times. I would encourage you to think it is NOT YOU, it's their problem. Nothing you can do to change them. They have to change their own self.

Be careful with your attitude. There's a lot of people who would love to steale your joy! Don't let them! I tried that one for years also. "Blessed is that man that maketh the Lord his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies." Psalm 40:4 God knows all about it; let Him take care of their attitude!

l,l95 blog!

Let's celebrate! That's a lot of praise to the Lord for keeping me going with what He has to say about encouragement!

God bless all of us as we celebrate today and also worship the Lord! Thanks for sticking with me!

Life!!!!!! Random Writing

I am so so blessed for all he women I have known in my life who are asking me why am I such an encouragement? My look at life tells me if we are breathing we need and yearn for encouragement. Something that makes us come out of the rut or the pit and keep on going with life!

I love to study prayers. That also encourages my life. The book "The Prayers of Susanna Wesley" is awesome. Talk about busy with 19 kids!!!! When I think of this dear woman and her taxing circumstances, I can only surmise that.....there goes every woman's list of excuses for not praying in their life.

Life goes on. Find what you can do to encourage someone. I look for that IN ALL situations and it makes life happier, fun, and off of self!

Friday Night Date Night

Not tonight; we took our Friday night date night yesterday at lunch. I had done a survey for Outback and won a free lunch, including the bloomin' onion appetizer! So, I got the hamburger and my hubby got the salad. Have you had a date night lately or lunch date with your beloved hubby? It was fun. We saw a lot of executives come to lunch and had a change to meet the Propietor at Outback. When my hubby had a church, we frequented Outback, so they all said "Where have you been?" It was fun. As you know the Server always gives a loaf of bread to take home.

What have you done on your date night? I would love to hear. Have a very happy Friday and remember BE BLESSED in the presence of each other!

Blogging

Today I was introduced to a new term, blog blockers....meaning some people deliberately hold their blog comment to stalk the comments going through. This is new to me..why would someone want to do that? What is this world coming to? Would it be jealousy. Truly, I would love comments so I could hear what those of you who read it have anything to say. I blog with (regular) 6 bloggers and some of us don't get but three comments to the max. I'm not trying to prove anything like having a blog because I am writing a book. I am writing a book but I don't use blogging to get me going. I love it when ladies comment on issues and are honest that they are going through irritations or things that we all can participate in and help a person get through. We've all been through so much. My blog that I write I want to be encouraging and of course I get encouraging comments back. I checked it out with my kids and they think I fit so much better when I encourage which is what I am great at.

So encouraging it will be in my blogging. Since we took our trip, it's been hard to get back in the groove of things, but don't worry I will get there. I love your comments, so do not hesitate and I pray for you a very happy Thusday!

Women

Have you ever read of women who are addicted to a painful past? Pornography, giving their bodies to just anyone? This stuff is real. Or addicted to drinking too much.
You can be forgiven. And the bitterness it causes can go away. God is ready to set you free. Call me, I'll tell you how. Call me today. I am burdened about you and can only tell you God can heal. Wednesday would be a great day to come clean!!!
Love, Prayers, and Trust, Carol

Love Your Home!

The King James Version of the Bible says in Titus 2:5 that we women are to be keepers at home. Other versions of the Bible translate these words as workers at home, homekeepers, good housekeepers, good managers of the household, and "home lovers."

I like "home lovers" because I believe that if you love your home, you'll do all the rest. Both 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. No task will be too difficult and no job will be too menial.

Love will enable us and empower us to tackle it, master it, and excel at it.
Proverbs 31:29. Turn up the heat of your heart...and your passion....when it comes to God's purpose for us as women to manage our home and ask God to help you become a "home lover." I know we all can do it! Yea!!!

People Need Compliments!

For encouragement! If nothing else! I need about 12 a day and my hubby gives them. He needs a ton of them. I think it's because he dealt with heavy duty problems in the Pastorate. I'm just the person to give them because I see the pain he goes through.

So, today, give your friends and family compliments. Live it up! Be on others' help side today. I'm up early thinking of how I am going to get caught up on a week out. I know God will give me the grace and at the same time when I go places, I am going to compliment. Thank you Lord for extra grace!

God's Amazing Grace!!!

Comes just when you need it.
Ask Him to cover you with His grace!
It works!
As Christians we deserve the grace and give Him Glory!
Thank you Lord Jesus!
We honor you!
Praise your Holy Name!!!

I truly love to Sing Praises!!!

When our loyal friend, Geneva picked us up frm the airport here, she brought me a bouquet of very lovely fall flowers and a birthday gift for hubby from her and her precious hubby. Geneva, only God will be so praised for you taking time off work to pick us up. God is so wonderful knowing what our needs are. We have to count on friends when the family lives away or have been out of town and couldn't be available. This, really, has been my husband's best birthday. During his retirement, he has opted to do his own yard landscaping and guess who helps him....me!!! When we got back, there, of course, are tons of things to do, but somehow I just want to be a housebounder, wondering what I want to do next. Once being spoiled sure does make me just want to stare at the walls or beautiful flowers Geneva gave me and the ones in our back yard.

So I think I will just do that...why be in a hurry..just take time to praise God for all His mercies and favors He gives to each one of us. I keep thinking if I hadn't given up knitting when a friend of mine tried to teach me, I could enjoy more vacation time and knit, but I guess I better get back in the grind of things and let the Lord use me to still help couples who need a boost to get back on the same page. That's our passion now. Have you ever been in a "I can't get moving stage?" I've asked God to give me one more day to get going. I'll rely on God's grace....GRACE IS MY POWER, Ephesians 2:8-9.

Great Visit!!!!!

Wonderful!
Fabulous!
Marvelous!
Incredible!
Spoiled Us Rotten!!!
That is what it feels like coming back from our daughter's. She is such an uplifting
person and she just treated her Dad (PAPPA) and me in her lovely apartment. One entire week of extraordinary rest and places to see or eat which were breathtaking. She has two chihuahua and they are the cutest things you ever saw or would want! It was also my hub's 65th birthday and we celebrated with joy!!!
Then when we got back, the extremely crowded airport was packed to capacity and we found out after we left, they closed the airport due to storm weather. We were blessed beyond blessings to get on the plane and get here.

Have you ever been spoiled rotten?

You should try it sometime. Just let the love flow from a family member that is needed. She needed it as much as we did. It truly left me speechless when we left. Did I miss blogging? You bet, but this was worth the pampering, soothing, encouraging given to each one of us. So, I'm back and the ususal daily living. We will be back on schedule for the couples and just know that God will bless lives as we give them the right direction to go.

Blessings to you having a super great Friday and as I welcome myself back into the blogging atmosphere. : )

Back On!!!!!!!!

Having fun, that's for sure!

Our daughter is so very talented!!! Wow!!! She knits and everything is a masterpiece!!! She is knitting a sweater...marvelous! Just fantastic!!! One cannot imagine!!!!

Just soaking it up! And blessed to have her for a daughter, the person she is....lovely, brilliant, fun, great listener, so loving!
Have a happy Saturday and see ya some time next week.
Love, Carol

God's 4 Words for Wives

help, follow, respect, love him!

Include him in your prayer time each day.

I'll light on respect him! Ephesians 5:33 is the scripture.
Have you figured out the best time to approach him about the important matters of life or best way to speak to him?

He honors me; why shouldn't I honor him? It's inevitable! Be blessed this Lord's Day.

God's 4 Words for Wives

help, follow, respect, love him!

Include him in your prayer time each day.

I'll light on respect him! Ephesians 5:33 is the scripture.
Have you figured out the best time to approach him about the important matters of life or best way to speak to him?

He honors me; why shouldn't I honor him? It's inevitable!
Happy Saturday!

What Makes You A Better Person?

There are high spots in all of our lives and most of them have come about through encouragement from someone else. I appreciate the fact that I feel like I'm a better person when I talk to our kids. Philippians 1:6 says "He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." That makes me a better person. He's not going to finish the work He has to do in me. He just puts me back on the easel and keeps on constructing me to be a better person. It forces me to have a good opinion of myself.

How about you? Have you learned how good you really are?

Bounce Back!

When you have a bad situation, bounce back!

Reject rejection, see mistakes as temporary and see that failures are isolated incidents.

Keep your expectations positive and focus on your achievements so you can bounce back!

10 Disciplines for Mothering

Center life on the Lord.

Model godly character.

Pray for your kids.

Be there for them.

Take them to Church.

Choose your kids above all.

Discipline your kids.

Be your kids #1 Encourager

Make each day fun!

The impact of your mothering is unmeasurable. Remember how rewarding it is. Stick to the book of Proverbs because it answers ANY question you have on mothering. Happy Wednesday!

Great Look At Life With Friends!

I'm up early. Got caught up on my sleep....yea!!!

Here's a great look at life: Dear friend, one of the key ingredients of life is people....and people take time. So do friendships. To some it was just a sunshine call to cheer and encourage. For another person, with me, it is a listening heart and a prayer over the phone.

We should manage our time and our lives, our projects and our priorities. And we'll get to the social area of our life with people...with souls. Our Friend who sticks closer than a brother....Christ....Proverbs 18:24!

Nurture and manage all of our life....and one is great friendship and we will be letting that happen in our lives Friday night as we meet with our devout friends. Can't wait....always a great look at life!!! God bless them and send His wonderful love! Have you ever had that "can't wait feeling?" That's where we are NOW!!! Happy Tuesday!

My Encouragement for THIS Day!

Take the time to make another person feel important!

God's Love

I get my love from God. He showers me down with love...always enough to give to hubby, children, and grandchildren + friends and other family members on top of that!
He constantly talks about love in the Bible. Ask Him in your prayer to understand the love that only God gives. Enjoy His love TODAY and let Him saturate you with love, peace, joy and feelings of confidence that He is there for you day and night!!!