From A Celtic Heart

"RANDOM ACTS of KINDNESS"

2012-02-03T13:42:00.000-08:00

A "RAOK" gift to me by my special friend, Debbie

What a different world we would live in if we all, or certainly more of us, regularly practiced this business of "Random Acts of Kindness".   I think the most important part of this is KINDNESS.   Just giving and sharing in a manner that makes someone feel cared for, loved and appreciated. No strings attached. No questions asked. No motives questioned.

The second most important aspect is RANDOM . . . whenever, whatever, and to whomever. No particular rhyme or reason, no schedule, no assignments . . . just because that "is what I want to do now" and that "is the person I want to share this with".

I am finding such joy and pleasure in practicing random acts of kindness more and more. I sometimes call it "surprised by joy". And that just makes my day!! Recently, while on one of my many thrift store forays I found a partially embroidered piece that would make a great framed wall hanging or pillow top or something similiar.   Because of the nature of the piece and what I know about a certain friend, my immediate "joy" was twofold; 1) the piece was GORGEOUS, and 2) I knew just who to give it to. She told me she was delighted to receive it and rarin' to go on finishing the embroidery on it.

I've read, heard and been told many times and many years ago that the best way to get yourself out of the doldrums or a depressed state is to focus on someone else. It could be just being there for someone who is struggling or it could be an active pursuit of a "Random Act of Kindness". I am always humbled, touched and ministered to when I am the recipient! The thought of someone thinking of me . . . of sharing with me . . . of sending me something that will just make me smile!

I have MaryJane Butters' 2012 calendar on my wall and I have seen that February 17th is noted to be "Random Act of Kindness" Day.   I'm encouraging my farmgirl friends to look around and see who needs to be remembered on this day. I certainly have plans for sharing with some friends that I hope are just "surprised by joy". Who will join me??

"Mr. Teddy" and his big heart just remind me of the beauty of "Random Acts of Kindness"

The BEAUTY of GRACEFUL AGING

2012-01-30T18:24:00.000-08:00

My hubby has brought me many single roses over the years since we started courting and on our last anniversary on December 28, 2011, which was our 43rd, he brought me another one. Red. Stunning. Gorgeous.

It was not fully opened and he put it in a bud vase on the counter by my laptop on December 27th. Over the course of a few days it gradually opened up more and more displaying its glorious beauty. You can see pictures of it then in a post further down titled "Anniversary Rose".

It's rare that the roses I've been given don't bend their head over and become "sad" looking, sometimes before they fully open. This one didn't do that. It stood there, tall, straight, and proud, just growing more and more beautiful each day. I watched it every day as I could see it just above the screen on my laptop and I observed the process.

Then I noticed it starting to turn a deeper shade of red and in a slow, graceful process it kept turning color and the petals gradually drying until it was a deep, rich, burgundy red. Still fully open and still tall, straight and proud. I was just amazed at the transformation and decided to preserve it with spray finish and sealer and it now graces the decor of my bathroom.

This process has reminded me of the "graceful aging" of our marriage and how it has grown richer, deeper . . . and tall, straight and proud. We are still in love and we are still best friends! God brought us together, gave us guidance over the years through the struggles, gave us two gorgeous children and has blessed us immensely with the "beauty of graceful aging".

The story . . . according to BRAMBLE

2012-01-29T11:29:00.000-08:00

Boy! It had been a rough day and I was feeling like I'd been pulled through a knothole backwards!! But, even in my morphine induced stupor I recognized my mom's voice, hallelujah! (My mom is CJ . .the barefoot farmgirl from southwest Colorado). Whoa! Slow down! Just put one foot in front of the other . . . I'm so glad to see you mom! Why are there two of you? I only remember one. Whew!! Home?? I'm going home?? Oh my goodness, home!!

My mom and I just love each other so much!!!

Home. Dad. Cat. Comfort. Security. Thank you Lord! I was home and after a while the haze started to lift and I could actually see that I had only one mom . . the ONE I knew and loved! I could walk straight and make my tail wag and I'm glad I'm home! A little snack and a lot of love and the cozy warmth of home!

Jeremy comes to visit on Sunday, here we are having a conversation and I'm getting some lovin' from him!

Now, three days later I'm doing really good! My mom puts an old sock over the dressing on my leg so that I can go outside for "business trips", to walk about a bit, feel the breeze (brrrr!), feel the sunshine and sniff! Boy, do I love sniffing things!! I can do everything that I was doing EXCEPT go on my long power walks with my mom! Man, oh man! She has to leave me behind and I just hate it! She told me she misses me sooooooo much, but when I'm healed up better I can go again. I know what she's doing when she sneaks her sunglasses into her pocket and sneaks her walking shoes and jacket outside to put them on. I KNOW!!! I have to stay in the house and watch . . . wait . . . whimper . . . worry and do all of that all over again and again until she comes back. Well, good grief, she's gone on 4-5 miles walks . . . that's a lot of watching, waiting, whimpering and worrying!!! When she comes home I'm sooooooooo excited to see her, so relieved she's back and I let her know. We have the best "love on each other" fest! Then I have to keep an eye on her, so I watch her every move, follow her around the house, get worried if she heads for the door . . . mercy me! Mom!!!!!

I have one of mom's old socks on my right front leg to protect my bandage and leg

And, then there's the medicine! Well, I'm being a good girl and I take it. Mom is pretty good at hiding it in food in such a manner that I don't have to actually taste it . . bleah! I know I have to take it so I heal up good and can get back to my normal life. Saturday morning I got to go to town with mom in the car . . that was easy. I love looking out the window and then snoozing in the sun in the backseat while she's in the store. But I got a special treat when she went through the drive-in window at the Silver Bean Coffee stop . . . they give me doggie treats! Wowie! Zowie! Yup . . I got one!

I'm doing good!! Thank you, Lord!

Anyway, I'm doing good! Have to take extra care and "lay low" until I see Amanda (my lady vet friend) on February 7th. Then I get to say "HI" to all the girls there . . (YIPPIE!!! I love the girls there!) and get the stitches out and this bandage off . . . ahhhh! That will be SOOOOOO nice!!!

THANK YOU to all of you, my friends . . and my mom's . . for praying for me, for caring for me . . and my mom! You are all so appreciated and so special! I wish I could meet all of you and smile for you and wag my tail! I'm very friendly, loveable and awfully cute! And I like people, especially nice ones!!! THANK YOU!!! My mom says to tell you that too!!!! We sure love you!!!

A "Gumball" of BUTTONS!!

2012-01-28T12:46:00.000-08:00

My goodness, I just have so much fun with buttons! I have a collection that would make any button lover jealous, but I use them on my aprons and other sewing projects. I use them to embellish my papercraft products which include journals, cards, tags and ATCs. Some of the fancier ones or special ones from family collections, or even antique buttons I am pretty selfish with and keep around so that I can admire them.
I decided to put some of my colored buttons (only a small portion of my collection) in this "gumball" so that they could be enjoyed by more folks. The "gumball" is another one of my projects and have made many of them for candy dishes, or whatever anyone wanted to put in them. I've sold them, gifted them and have a couple I made for myself, this red one being one of those. More fun for the love of buttons!!!!

You Light Up My Life

2012-01-27T14:52:00.000-08:00

I'm always looking for creative projects that strike my fancy, aren't impossible or expensive to do and suit my style. I'm putting together gear and accessories for "Glamping" . . . glamor/girl camping with my daughter and we'll be doing it in a tent and an EZ-Up canopy. I've collected all kinds of linens, including lady curtains, sheets, doilies, tablecloths . . . much of it vintage. Also a collection of throw rugs to throw down to make it even more comfy.

A single shade on a wineglass with a tealight is another fun thing. NOTE: the entire circle bottom of the cup will need to be cut out or the tealight won't stay lit and the cup bottom will melt. The LED tealights could be used instead.

And, thought this project would be a fun, creative addition to our "glamp-site" (depending on it having electrical service). So, I made this garland with a 20-light strand of mini-lights, plastic solo cups, fabric and Mod Podge. A very fun project and now I'm thinking about making one that is just a variety of polka dot prints and one that is just Western prints.

Light! What a positive influence in my life!

Thank you Lord!!

2012-01-26T16:01:00.000-08:00

Well, she made it through surgery with flying colors and is now home and we start the recovery process. This photo taken not long after we got her back home and she's still under the influence of morphine.
We sure missed her today! It was just "not right" with her gone all day and our cat, Skye, was really out of sync as well, knowing "her dog" was missing.
She is doing good! She will be fine! I'm thankful for the Lord taking care of her . . . as I knew He would!!!

"Certified Farmgirl" . . . awwwww!!

2012-01-25T18:51:00.000-08:00

I add this picture of sweet Bramble in her brand new "Certified Farmgirl" bandana. She really is a certified farmgirl too . . she takes care of our Longhorn cows, our llama, our cat, my hubby . . and me!!! What a girl!!!!

She has surgery tomorrow . . . praying God's Hand on you my sweet friend!!!!

BRAMBLE . . my sweet friend!

2012-01-22T17:30:00.000-08:00

This is Bramble, my 8-year old female Australian Cattle dog. She is my best pal, partner on my power walks, a sweet, affectionate friend. She is fun, friendly and has been the best dog. This week she has to have a tumorous growth removed from the back of her front right leg. Her vet indicates there are no "scary cells" in the needle biopsy that was done, but the final determination of what this tumor is is yet to be determined by histology testing. She is a precious pal . . . I'm praying for the surgery to go smooth, the tumor to be benign, for her recovery to be swift and without problems. We still have lots of "playing" to do and power walks to take. Her surgery is scheduled for Thursday, January 26, 2012.

TOASTY TOES ???

2012-01-16T10:25:00.000-08:00

We had some snow before Christmas, but it had melted off and the mud dried up by then and our Christmas was "brown". We have had lovely, clear, sunny . . and dry . . . weather since then until early this morning. Yesterday I did some laundry and hung it outside to dry. We have an 8 foot "game" fence that runs across in front of house between the lawn and the fruit orchard and that fence makes an excellent clothesline. The last load of the day included my handmade crocheted slippers which weren't dry when I brought in the rest of the laundry so I left them hanging there. I woke early to get ready for work, saw the snow coming down . . . and this is what my slippers looked like.
No, they aren't going to keep my toes warm like this but we are so grateful for the Lord's provision of the snow . . . so very much needed! The slippers will dry . .. eventually!

Three pair of crocheted slippers and one pair of socks! Cloudy and snowing!

"Mr. Teddy" and I are going GLAMPING!!

2012-01-13T14:28:00.000-08:00

What is "glamping" you ask? Well it is "girl" camping, it is "glamour" camping . . it is a combination of both. Many glamping friends that I know have "glampers" which are typically camper trailers that they have made into their own little havens of camping paradise. They have been refurbished, restored, revamped and redecorated. I don't have the privilege of owning my own "glamper" . . . yet. But I know I can do it with a tent and a canopy. So I've been collecting all sorts of lovelies for making our tent and canopy into a glamourous girl hangout! The only "guy" who has been invited is "Mr. Teddy" and that's because he has been so faithful and diligent in keep watching over me. He is an antique bear I rescued from the "Bargain Basement" section of an antique mall and he was so grateful to come live at my house. He sits in my bedroom and keeps an eye on things. So, he and my faithful doggie friend, Bramble, and I are meeting my daughter . . . who is my traveling companion, partner in crime and best friend . . . in March near her home in Phoenix, Arizona for some tent-glamping time!!! Gonna pack these suitcases with my stuff, load up my car and head that way.
I'm SOOOOOO thankful for my daughter and the relationship we have and I'm looking forward to this time with her!!!

My "ANNIVERSARY ROSE"

2012-01-09T10:57:00.000-08:00

Bill and I were both sophomores at Arizona Bible College in Phoenix, Arizona. I had transferred there that year from another college, so it was new to me. Our first date was to the Arizona State Fair in the Fall of 1967. Neither of us had a car and we started going on our dates on Bill's roommate's Honda 90 motorbike. So, we buzzed around on that . . I came back to the dorm with windblown beehive hair . . you have to remember that highly teased and sprayed hair was the "thing" in those days. Bill also let me wear his uncle's Army jacket, so you can imagine the sight I was.

By Christmas we knew we loved each other and wanted to get married. We went shopping for an engagement ring and submitted our request to announce our engagement to the administration of the college. Yes, it was required and they had to know our parents had been informed and were in consent. We were both still under the age of 21. We officially announced our engagement at the college Sweetheart Banquet in February 1968.

We were married on December 28, 1968 in my home church, First Baptist Church in Cortez, Colorado. We had to drive through an absolute blizzard from Phoenix to my home here in southwest Colorado and, what was normally an 8 hour drive took 14 hours! All of my siblings, their spouses and children were present, as were Bill's family members from Arizona. My oldest sister made my dress and the dresses for my bridesmaid. I wore white velvet trimmed with rabbit's fur, they wore hunter green velveteen. Flowers were red roses, white mums and baby's breath. We had a very short honeymoon in Flagstaff and were back to school and jobs soon thereafter.

Our daughter, Robin, was born in October 1971 and our son, Jeremy was born in December 1973, both in Phoenix, Arizona. We lived there until the spring of 1974, moved to Tucson (where Bill's parents lived) until the summer of 1976 and then moved back to Colorado where we have lived since.

Like any marriage we've had our struggles, difficulties and hard times, but we made a commitment and, because we believe our marriage was ordained by God, we worked to let Him be in control. So, here we are, starting on our 44th year together . . . we love each other in a way we didn't know could or would be. We've learned a tremendous amount about each other which includes that we are individuals who contribute to the marriage relationship. Most importantly, God is the center of our lives and our marriage . . . and we know how to let go of stuff that doesn't matter and laugh a lot!
Thank you, Lord, for Bill and for our children . . and for giving us this marriage!

Bill bought me a single red ros which, on 01/09/12, is still standing tall, elegant and beautiful

This was one of the most fragrant roses I've ever been given. Can you smell it?

Thank you, Bill, for this gorgeous rose!

Birthdays, Anniversaries, and other Celebrations

2012-01-01T08:36:00.000-08:00

December is a very busy month for this family with all kinds of celebrations. While my parents, Gaylord and Evelyn Gardner, are now in heaven I still remember their anniversary which is December 7th. They were married in 1933 in Belen, New Mexico, my dad would have just turned 20 and my mom still 19.

December 12th is our son, Jeremy's, birthday and this year he turned 38. He was born a bit before his estimated due date but that had nothing to do with him being born with Down Syndrome. He has been a true gift to this family!!!

December 17th is my birthday and since it was on a Saturday this year and I had opportunity to do so, I just took myself and my little canine friend, Bramble, and went putzing and poking around. Stopped in my favorite shops, had lunch at "The Farm Bistro", took a couple walks in the park (weather unseasonably warm). Then picked Bill up and we had a yummy pizza at Dolores River Brewery . . and shared a lovely dessert made by Angie.

December 19th is my in-laws wedding anniversary. My father-in-law, Sam, is in heaven, having gone home in August of 2007. My mother-in-law, Caroline is living and well in an assisted living home in Tucson, Arizona. I still think of them and their years together . . . and we miss Sam a lot!

Of course, DECEMBER 25th is Christmas and the reminder of the birth of our LORD and SAVIOR!!! What a birthday to remember and celebrate.!!!! HALLELUJAH, WHAT A SAVIOR!!

December 28th is our (Bill and me) wedding anniversary. This year we celebrated 43 years. Our daughter, Robin was home and I got up and made a yummy, more-elaborate-than-usual breakfast for everyone. Robin cooked us a yummy and fun "Diner Dinner" that evening. I'm thankful for Bill!!

December 31st is our daughter and son-in-law's, Robin and Jim, wedding anniversary. They celebrated 7 years. Robin was driving back home on the day while Jim was at home in Glendale . . . well, actually he was doing a 20 mile training run for a marathon. So, I believe it was dinner together after Robin got home and Jim was back too.

So, December is past, 2011 is also past and we start a new month and a new year, 2012. I know that the Lord has many more opportunities in store for us in this new year!!!!

Jeremy and Robin . . . our beautiful children, who are now adults

Our "Birthday Girls" Birthday Lunch. Robin (her birthday was October 9th) me, our friend and neighbor, Lynne Beck (her birthday is December 27th) and another farmgirl friend, Sharon Demers (her birthday is also December 17th) We got together to celebrate on Thursday, December 29th at Fiesta Mexicana in Cortez

Well, ya' gotta be able to goof around once in a while!

Bill and me . . . 43 years married!

And, then we added our doggie friend, Bramble . . . she's such a sweetie

Robin and I are both "alumni" of Montezuma-Cortez High School in Cortez. We both attended all 4 years there, I graduated in 1966, she graduated in 1990. We found these t-shirts this past week and decided we needed them. I then found my "M" letter from when I was in high school. It's for students in the music program and it has all four bars on it. It actually survived our fire in 1994 . . . was filthy dirty with soot (carefully cleaned it) and the upper right corner of the "M" shows some evidence of burn. Robin thinks I need to frame it in a shadow box . . . I probably will.

Anyone up for going SKATING!!

2011-12-24T16:03:00.000-08:00

It's Christmas! It's cold and frosty . . . the farm pond should be frozen enough for ice skating, I would think! We could have such fun out there swirling and twirling around . . . falling down, getting back up, skating in pairs or ice dancing.
Then we could come back to the house, get close to the firepit and the toasty warm and cozy fire while we sip hot chocolate, coffee, tea, cappuccino and/ or cider. I've made lots of Christmas cookies . . or we could pop some popcorn, even make 'smores over the fire.

We could laugh, share in the joy of one another's company and we could sing Christmas carols! We could sing loud and clear . . . raising our voices to the starry skies and the heavens! Then we can tumble in the house, shed our outerwear, put on our Christmas jammies and slippers . . . laugh and sing some more! What a glorious night we could celebrate! "O HOLY NIGHT"!
THANKS BE TO GOD FOR HIS UNSPEAKABLE GIFT!!!

Christmas Tree Lit from the VERY TOP!!

2011-12-23T16:24:00.000-08:00

Our "Miracle Tree", the Colorado Blue Spruce that is at the end of our driveway and about 30 feet tall had to have it's tippy-top pruned off because it was a tad bit close to the power lines. We asked the tree company guys to be GENTLE, CAREFUL and THOUGHTFUL . . . because of the history of this stunningly beautiful tree's survival of our terrible fire in July 1994.
I watched them carefully trim off the top . . . and was glad they were careful, but it still made me a bit teary eyed. As my hubby says, "that tree was hard won". I went out and asked them for the top and decided it would make a perfect little Christmas tree out on our deck. The end was just perfect to fit in the hole (for a patio unbrella) in the middle of our metal patio table. I strung on some mini lights and topped it with a good Scottish tartan plaid bow . . . and we have our little blue spruce Christmas tree . . . all lit up from the top!!! Another way to enjoy a bit of our "Miracle Tree"!!

The "COMFORT and JOY" of homemade bread

2011-12-19T14:04:00.000-08:00

My mom was a farmwife, farmmom and the best cook ever and that included her mastery of homemade bread. She taught me everything I know about making bread and it is such a pleasure to engage in, what is now, an indulgence. When our children were still at home I made all of our bread, as well as other baked goods. After we became "empty nesters" and I was working more than one job, my hubby became the cook in the house. So, my breadmaking basically went by the wayside. It is now becoming one of MY holiday traditions . . to set aside days to bake and that includes my favorite yeast breads. I made several loaves and put them in the freezer to enjoy long after the holidays are over. I don't have a bread machine and have never used one. I'm not against their use, I just don't make bread often any more. However, I actually enjoy kneading bread . . . it is therapeutic for me! It is an activity that allows me to remember my mom, my life as a "farm kid', gives me opportunity to express gratitude to the Lord for His grace, mercy, comfort, strength, provision and love.

It is truly a COMFORT to me to make bread, taking in the aroma of the yeast and the baking smells, hearing that "hollow" sound with a thump that tells me the bread is done, rubbing a little butter on the hot tops.

The JOY is in slicing of the "heel" . . end piece while it is still warm and savoring it with butter and, sometimes, local honey. I enjoy homemmade bread anytime . . but for me, the JOY is that very first, heel slice fresh out of the oven! My family knows that that piece is MINE!!! Better not try to steal it from me!!

Honey Whole Wheat bread, fresh and cooling on the rack!

Getting my "therapy" by kneading the Oatmeal Molasses bread. That "heel" piece was just heavenly!

Angels Watchin' Over Me

2011-12-13T14:24:00.000-08:00

It was about 1:00 AM on Sunday morning, July 17th, 1994. The angel who was attempting to rouse me from sleep looked like my mom! This angel's job was to get me and my husband, awake, out of bed and out of our house because within 1/2 hour it caught fire and was totally destroyed!
It was an arson fire started by malicious pranksters playing with illegal fireworks! I don't believe they intended to burn our house down but it was malicious and irresponsible! Our yard and natural wooded area on three sides of our property were already engulfed in flames and we had time only to get dressed, call the fire department, get out, move our vehicles and pray!!!!

My mother had passed away earlier that year in February and this angel who had her appearance used the strategy to wake me that my mom had used when I was in high school and had to get up EARLY to practice the piano before going to school. I'm thankful for her! For that angel! For the fact that she was already in heaven when this happened and for the fact that both of our children were no longer living at home.
God worked a miracle out of that terrible catastrophe and we are grateful for how He worked through it! Yes, I believe in angels! I have many reasons to believe, without a doubt that they exist, that there are out there watching over us, protecting us and keeping us out of harm's way many, many times.

There are three lovely angels on this "tree". Some of the other Christmas angels are in pictures below with the sleighs!

I collect angels and have them all over my house. Some of them are put out only at Christmas, others are out all the time. I ALWAYS have some gracing the top of my piano! There are some Christmas ones there now, but I also have some hanging out in the bathroom. I can see them when I'm getting myself put together for the day . . and I'm reminded of their presence in my life and the lives of those I love so very much!

A Sleigh-ing we will go

2011-12-11T17:01:00.000-08:00

Someday I'm going to go for a honest-to-goodness sleigh ride. Seems like our winters of late have been rather sparse of snow, except for the last couple. We were in Arizona for the Christmas holidays the last two years which put a crimp in any style for a sleigh ride. We have gone cross-country skiing at night in the moonlight and while it is cold, we stay active enough and aren't out terribly long. There is something about that crisp, clear, snowy, moonlit venue that is invigorating and refreshing . . .and not just because of the cold. It's quiet and you can really reflect on that nocturnal beauty.

I have a few sleighs for decorating my house for Christmas and I'd like to share a few pictures of them here. I love to decorate my house all over and that includes the bathroom. It's just so fun for me to "deck the halls" of my house!

A vintage gold colored metal sleigh with green metal holly leaves and red bells as the berries. I've filled it with vintage glass ball ornaments, placed in on top of a vintage-look Christmas box. It sits on my dining table with some other items.

This sweet little white sleigh sits in my bathroom on the "towel table" and is graced with vintage hankies and an angel. There are Christmas towels, other vintage hankies and angels here as well

Another cute little red sleigh on the counter in my bathroom, enhanced with silk decorations, vintage hankie and linens, including doilies, a sweet crochet angel. And there are other Christmas decoration items here as well.

Christmas Clucking in my Kitchen

2011-12-07T19:36:00.000-08:00

I grew up on a farm and we raised a lot of different animals, crops . . and lots of chickens. I can tell you more about chickens than you'll ever want to know. But they seem to have some charm when it comes to kitchen decor and I have a few little "chickies" gracing my kitchen.
I'm also very fond of antique items and have some treasures that I was able to claim from our farm and a few things that were in my in-laws house.

Thought I'd have some fun and use the first egg scale we used on the farm in my decor, weighing a ball ornament. Use some cute little aluminum molds to hold more vintage ball ornaments or light string bulbs and add some other bric-a-brac.

A vintage quart milk bottle makes a great container for peppermint sticks. Tie up some silverplate utensils, add a vintage gallon milk jug and a complete set of vintage glass tree ornaments and use some fun dress shaped potholders and Christmas themed napkins.

Vintage thermos bottles all dolled up for the holidays, along with cordial glasses holding vintage ball ornaments, chickens, rusty bells, plates, mugs, evergreen branches, an antique butter churn and more napkins. And, just lay it out on kitchen-y towels and redwork tea towels.

Better look at the churn with a fun 1950's salt/pepper set and antique kitchen utensils.

Well, in true farmgirl, "lover-of-old-stuff" fashion, I wanted to incorporate some of these antique/vintage items into my kitchen Christmas decorations along with the chickens. Boy does this remind me of Christmas on the farm . . that big, two-story house whose only heat was the Warm Morning coal stove in the dining room and the fireplace in the living room.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Santa Claus . . and Snowmen

2011-12-05T12:43:00.000-08:00

I LOVE CHRISTMAS! I have such a fun time decorating my house and planning festivities to celebrate the season. In my heart I KNOW . . and BELIEVE . . that "JESUS is the REASON for the SEASON". That reason and that reason alone are what it is ALL about! HALLULEJAH! WHAT A SAVIOR!!!!

I enjoy the other parts of Christmas just for the fun and joy of it. In my Christmas boxes, bins and tins are lots of decoration items. Boy! I have a vast array of fun things. I have enjoyed collecting Santa Claus figures over the years. They range from a tiny Santa doing handstands, or one barrelling down the slopes on skis to a tall Santa dressed as a woodsman with a toggle button jacket and burlap gift sack. I just enjoy looking at all the different features of each one.

This is just a FEW of my Santas . . I just love the blue one on the left.

I also have a wonderful and delightful collection of snowmen figures. They range from a miniscule clay snowman covered with a glittery finish to a tall resin snowman holding garden implements. There are soft sculptures, metal, wood, clay . . . all kinds. I even have "Irish Snow People" which includes one with sheer green angel wings and another wearing a green Irish cloak. This pair was made for us by a fellow traveler on a tour in Ireland several years ago. Again, I just enjoy handling them, looking at the faces, admiring the different features. My snowman collection stays out through January!!

Just a couple of my snowy friends. I display my snowmen on this snow/snowman themed mini-quilt that I made.

Lovely Treasures

2011-11-23T21:27:00.000-08:00

I was just tickled pink to find this lovely embroidered vintage vanity set in excellent condition. A hairbrush, clothes brush and mirror with beveled edge. It sits on my dresser and I am able to admire it daily. I was able to obtain the vintage gloves in a barter with a farmgirl friend. With the doilies I thought these are a lovely addition to my dresser. Reminders of decades gone by.

Some Farmgirl Favorites

2011-11-21T10:19:00.000-08:00

The sweetest, most wonderful peaches were grown on our family farm

My "valance" of vintage potholders over my kitchen sink . . . just so fun to see them there!

The joy of baking . . in miniature!

My "Silverware" Tree

2011-10-30T09:57:00.000-07:00

I just had to have some fun with an odd selection of forks, spoons, butter knives, etc. So I bent then all in half, applied a little metallic paint here and there, glued on an embellishment which was either an earring, pin or some other piece of jewelry. Some folks may think . . . "hmmmm . . . and why"? But I like this for a simple elegant table or credenza decoration. Furthermore it is a whole of of fun.
And, once again, I liken it to the beauty that can be manifest through the quirkiness of us as individuals . . . God's children, created in His image!!!

A "Do-Over"

2011-10-30T09:51:00.000-07:00

What do you do with ratty looking, worn out things that some folks would not hesitate to toss out. Well, if you're like me you examine them for ALL the possibilities for a "do-over". This project WAS an old leather suitcase but with a lot of tender loving care it became TWO . . . yes, TWO . . .lovely little wall units for my house. The first one is the main part of the suitcase and it has hangers on it so it can be hung on the wall as well. This is currently sitting on the chest of drawers in my bedroom on top of vintage linens and with some other lovely decoration pieces with it. The other picture shows the lid of the same suitcase made into a display unit which is hanging in my bathroom.

Loving tender care . . . GOD's GRACE!!!!
WOW!!!!

Life is a Bowl of Cherries!

2011-10-30T09:42:00.000-07:00

I'm "sweet" on cherries and I love this vintage tablecloth that I was able to barter an apron for. And, I found this Mary Engelbreit teapot (sans the lid, sorry to say) at a local thrift shop. But I'll be able to enjoy it. Life is kind of like cherries . . there's the sweet, yummy part; the hard, difficult part that would be the pit and if not properly cared for they can go bad in a hurry. I want to be able to savor the sweet, yummy part and know how to the deal with the "pits" with grace and more grace. I don't want to miss out on any of it . . I want to enjoy the "cherries" of life!

An Apple a Day . . . it's Apple Time!

2011-09-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

It's almost October and it is apple time! Our farm produced several varieties of apples . . . yummy! And I spent many days on a 3-legged picking ladder with a picking sack hanging off my shoulders. I love the smell of apples, apple orchards . . and apple time!!! I was able to bring home the box stamps my dad had made that were used to stamp the big cardboard boxes we used when packing and shipping apples. There are some with the apple variety name, such as "Red Delicious", some with size, description such as "Extra Fancy", and one with the Gardner Diamond T Farm and Orchard label/address on it. I also was able to get some of the old wooden apple boxes and I use many of them in my house as shelving units, etc. Dad also made the best . . . oh, the tastiest apple cider . . . what a treat!!! We live just over the fence from the orchards (we no longer own them) but we are able to pick, enjoy the flavor and fragrances . . . and the memories!!!

Cat in a Bumbershoot

2011-09-15T11:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a rainy day and in the southwest we don't use rainboots or umbrellas much, but yesterday was a RAINY day. So, I put on my "pink plaidies" and took my purple bumbershoot to go get the mail. Of course, you don't close up your bumbershoot while it's wet. A little later in the afternoon I turned around to see our kitty, Skye, preening herself inside the upside down umbrella. As soon as I got my camera she turned around, sat up and posed! Sweet kitty! She is a tortoiseshell calico and unbelievably spry and active for her age. She was 10 months old when I got her from the shelter in June of 1995!!! She is a sweet, affectionate, "people" cat and loves to cuddle. She has been missing her top fang teeth for a long time but can still, without those teeth and at her age, wrangle down rabbits, squirrels, mice and gophers half her size. And she loves to engage in rough & tumble play with our dog, Bramble. We call their romping "rodeos"! Sweet kitty!!

By the way, out here in the west we call these articles "umbrellas" . . but they are also called "bumbershoots"!

Peonies and worn boots

2011-08-28T15:31:00.000-07:00

Peonies are one of my favorite flowers and I have this bush that produces some of the most beautiful and fragrant pink flowers. To me they are a sweet reward! I love to inhale that fragrance at any time, but at the end of a long, work-worn day it is extra special.
The worn boots just remind me of the rewards of hard work! Yes, we will be tattered and torn, ragged around the edges, worn out . . but the accomplishments are so rewarding and satisfying. Ahhhh . . the fragrances of work done!

Aren't NIECES just NICE!!!

2011-08-15T06:27:00.000-07:00

My daughter, Robin and I were able to see and spend time with my oldest sister's (Jan) daughter, Lynnelle Beaver, who lives in Westminster, CO

And, we were able to see and visit briefly with Kerry Gardner, who actually married into the family. She is married to Tim Gardner, my oldest brother's (Noel) middle son and they live in Parker, CO. On the far right is my oldest sister, Jan, who also lives in Westminster, CO.

In the Coeur d'Alene, Idaho area my sister's (Marilyn) daughter, Melanie Danbrook, came from British Columbia and spent the weekend camping with us and some other farmgirl friends.

I have lots of other nice nieces and nephews too. These are the ones we were able to see this summer!

MOTHERS and DAUGHTERS

2011-08-11T20:11:00.000-07:00

Robin, Mary Jane, me and Megan

Precious daughters, Megan and Robin

Robin, my daughter, and I had the wonderful privilege of taking a three week road trip this summer. We traveled in Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho and Utah.
Our final destination was MaryJanes Farm in Moscow, Idaho where we stayed at MaryJanes Outpost B&B for three nights. On our second day there we enjoyed a Tea Party hosted by MaryJane, her daughter, Meg and other gals at the farm, Kim, Rebekah, and Alicia.
It was such fun to share this time with farmgirls from Wisconsin, Missouri, Idaho, and Washington. (I'm from Colorado and my daughter is from Arizona)
It was such and honor to meet Mary Jane and for a few moments we "traded" daughters. As you can see we had such fun and enjoyed each other so much.

I know that MJ and Meg are close and their relationship and friendship is priceless.

I am so grateful for my daughter and the incredible friendship we have and that we can just have the best time doing things together, traveling, sharing a tent, laughing, stopping at Starbucks, hanging out . . .whatever.
It was the trip of a lifetime! Time with my daughter!!! I am blessed!!!

Western Hospitality . . . AWESOME!!

2011-08-08T09:02:00.000-07:00

This summer I had the WONDERFUL privilege of taking a road trip with my daughter, Robin, . . . "Farmgirls on the Loose" in connection with MaryJanes Farm Farmgirl Connection. We met and were taken care of in grand, glorious style by farmgirls in Colorado, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. There is absolutely NOTHING like Western hospitality! Thank you for sharing your homes, your familes, your dining tables, communities . . and all the fun with us!!!!Ilene Wilson, one of the "chicks" in our Farmgirls Southwest Henhouse. She prepared one of the most fabulous lunches ever for a "chick" lunch at her home in Denver

The Pilgrim family on the ranch near Baggs, WY let us stay for a couple days. We saw their ranch, cattle, horses, sheep . . tied aprons on goats and calves. Man what a good time we had. Michelle is one of our Farmgirls

On the right is Denise Smart, Farmgirl from Green River, WY with her daughter and grandson. They provided an amazing lunch in a park for us as we traveled through their beautiful city.

And, then we were able to stay with the Ed and Kathy O'Hara, with their daughters, Mia and Erin. They have a beautiful place in Hayden, Idaho which is near Coeur d/Alene. Marvelous cinnamon rolls, great burgers . . . and such a fun time.

Cy and Diana near Orofino, Idaho have a BEAUTIFUL place overlooking Dworshack Reservoir. They have a HUGE house they hope to turn into a B&B. We all had our own bedroom with quilts made by Diana. What a restful, relaxing gorgeous place to stay.

THANKS TO ALL OF YOU for showing us your true WESTERN HOSPITALITY!!!

Adversity

2011-08-05T18:00:00.000-07:00

Reading from Oswald Chambers, "MY UTMOST FOR HIS HIGHEST" . The typical view of the Christian life is being delivered from all adversity. But it actually means being delivered in adversity. "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." Psalm 91:1. God does not give us overcoming life - He gives us life as we overcome. The strain of life is what builds our strength. If there is no strain, there is no strength."

I pray for His continued strength for the stresses and strains of life and the difficulties that come my way that seem impossible. Thank you Lord, for your grace, mercy, strength and love!

"Gunsmoke" . .. and cornflowers

2011-08-05T08:17:00.000-07:00

One morning about 2 weeks ago as I was returning from my morning power walk I noticed that all of our Longhorns were laying down, enjoying the morning sun. They had been across the lane in another pasture up until about 3 days before this picture was taken so this pasture had grown up quite nicely.

This is a picture of "Gunsmoke" the 4-month old Longhorn calf, now a steer, peering at me through the periwinkle cornflowers.

GARDEN PLANTING "GAUGE"

2011-05-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

Around here they say you can plant your garden when "the snow is off the Sleeping Ute". By that they mean the Sleeping Ute Mountain which is to the southwest of our house and right in the very SW corner of Colorado. It is on the Ute Mountain Ute Indian reservation and visible from our house to the SW.

USUALLY, the snow is off the mountain about now and, USUALLY, we have planted part of our garden (NOT the plants such as pepper, tomato, etc. because there is ALWAYS a late frost the first part of June)

We have had THREE days of rain, hail, snow . . well just about all there is that is called wet. As of this morning, Saturday, May 21st, this is what the Sleeping Ute Mountain looks like. Not only is the snow not OFF the mountain . . . it just received more.

Hmmmmmmmmm . . . .what's a garden-planting farmgirl to do??

Bill has tilled the garden, but he wants to till it again. At first he said we needed to put the sprinkler on it first. Well, not now! We have to let it dry out now before he can till it again and fertilize it. We know everything is in God's timing!!!!

Meet my MOM

2011-04-20T19:52:00.000-07:00

Since Mother's Day is fast approaching I thought I'd share this photo and a little bit about my mother. She was born Evelyn Marguerite Gilman on March 29, 1914, the oldest of eight children. She married my dad, Gaylord N. Gardner on December 7, 1933. They met, married and lived in the Belen, New Mexico area until 1945 when they moved to southwest Colorado. They bought the farm that I spent my entire life on, sometime before 1948.

This photo has the date August 1955 in the margin and is one the very first color photos in my mom's photo albums. Left to right: my sister, Marilyn, who is their 3rd child. Next to her is our mom and then Janice, who is their 2nd child and the oldest girl. The little tyke standing on the fence is the youngest of all of us, Gaye Lynn and next to her is the oldest child, Noel.

In front on the left is me, and then my brother Gerry, who is their 4th child.

My mom loved the Lord and served Him. She loved her family and was the utmost as a farm wife and mother. She was also a musician, played the piano and taught a multitude of piano students all through her life. She encouraged, nurtured and helped four of her six children to learn to play and do it well, fortunately I am one of those four. She worked hard at caring for our home, her husband and her children. She was the best cook and knew how to raise a garden of gargantuan size, put it all away for the winter, bake, sew, do just about everything there was to do, keep us all pretty well . . . and love us like crazy!!! She became very ill with chronic lymphocytic leukemia which eventually, after several long, hard years, took her life on February 6, 1994. She was quite the lady!!!! And I miss her so much!!! THANK YOU MOM FOR YOUR LEGACY!!!! HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!

FARMGIRLS and SISTERS! FRIENDS!!!!

2011-04-06T07:33:00.000-07:00

Farmgirls . . . . Sisters! Friends!!! This picture is one from MaryJanes Farm and one of my very favorites. It just expresses the spirit of the heart of a Farmgirl. I have three sisters and two brothers and we grew up on a true, blue, work-hard-every-day farm. We drove tractors and while I don't think that all four of us girls were ever on the tractor together and most certainly not all six of us kids, this makes me think of my family and our farm.

It also reminds me of all the Farmgirl Connection farmgirl friends I have all across the country and how much I appreciate each one of them. I have had the wonderful privilege of meeting some of these farmgirls in person (and hugging their necks!) and I will have opportunities to meet more. But we have managed to build relationships through modern technology called "cyberspace" . . and we have managed to share the kindred spirit of a farmgirl. That spirit is one of caring, sharing, encouraging and having fun together!!!

I'm grateful for Farmgirls . . . Sisters . . . Friends!!!!

Spring is Coming!

2011-03-27T16:49:00.000-07:00

When we see the little blades of new green grass poking up through the ground and the first sign of flowers and spring it just seems to also bring a feeling of excitement! We have longer hours of sunlight, the temperatures are warming up and we see all the promise of new life. We can shake off the doldrums of the winter cold and dark nights!! Thank you Lord for spring and the new signs of life . . and allowing us to hope for the joys, newness and fresh growth you can bring into our hearts and lives!

The LORD Reigns!

2011-02-06T10:34:00.000-08:00

PSALM 93:1-2 "The Lord reigns, He is clothed with majesty; The Lord has clothed and girded Himself with strength. Indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved. Thy throne is established from of old; Thou art from everlasting."

New Hope for New Year

2011-01-07T20:12:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that a new year has begun already! How time flies!!
It would be easy to be depressed and discouraged about the way the world is and about some of the struggles, obstacles and difficulties that come our way in our own lives.

There are many things that could "sideline" us from a closer and more intimate walk with the Lord. I, personally, am going to try to focus on having an attitude of gratitude for all that God is! After all, HE is the Creator of the universe, HE is in control of everything and HE loves me like I'm the only one He has to love.

It is because of the God that I serve that I am HOPEFUL for this new year!!! I serve the GOD OF MIRACLES!!!

Seeking God

2010-11-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

Time with God . . . time to walk and talk with Him. Time to let Him minister and speak to us, to remind us of how very much He loves us! Time to LISTEN!!

I go for "power walks" every day that I'm not working my 12 hour shifts and am able to walk in an area near my house where it's out in nature, not interrupted by traffic and such. I see deer, elk, foxes, coyotes, ducks, geese, signs that a bear has just been by, porcupine . . . and skunks!

But it is my favorite time for prayer, time to focus on talking, walking, crying . . . or listening with my Lord!

This is from Chuck Swindoll's "Insight for Living" from earlier this week.

"Start Seeking God"

by Charles R. Swindoll

Lamentations 3:25

"Lord, I'm back and I diligently seek you." How many times have we said this? This time stop talking and sit silently. Wait patiently, seek diligently, sit silently. That means you need to pour out your heart and then deliberately be quiet. Spend a full day in quietness.

Meditation is a lost art in this modern, hurry-up world. I suggest you revive it. Not by endlessly repeating some mantra to get into some other frame of mind. Not that. Simply and silently wait before your faithful God. Read a passage of Scripture, perhaps a psalm, and let it speak. Say nothing. Just sit silently. Let Him talk. Let Him reassure you that you are fully and completely foriven and that your shame is gone. Feel His arms around you. Understand the cleansing that He's bringing. Feel again the freshness and relief of His presence.

God will give you a fresh start if you'll stop figiting. It works. I know. I've been there. Just submit to Him and accept His grace.

God will keep His promise to forgive and welcome you home.

His mercies are new ever morning.

(end excerpt)

BLESSINGS!!

2010-10-13T21:56:00.000-07:00

We were blessed with one daughter, Robin and one son, Jeremy. Robin is now all grown up with her own family, is a 2nd grade teacher at a charter school in Phoenix, Arizona. She is also my best friend and pal. We have been able to enjoy a wonderful friendship!!! I thank the Lord daily for this blessing, for the friendship He has given Robin and me and the kindred spirit in the things we enjoy and do together.

As we are separated by about 400 miles we don't spend a lot of time together, but our communication is almost daily!!! And our hearts are bound by the ties of love that is part of a mother/daughter relationship, a deep friendship and our mutual desire to honor and serve the Lord!!!

Girlfriends . . and Broken Dishes

2010-05-23T17:52:00.000-07:00

Further reading in "QUILTS FROM HEAVEN" this past week brought to me some information on the "Sunbonnet Sue" quilt pattern. Basically it was born out of the ladies quilting circles in the times where that was just about the only time a women had opportunity to talk with other ladies . . to share, to cry, to build peer relationships. It was about "girlfriends" and friendships. These REAL, TRUSTING relationships are kind of rare and so priceless. . . a true treasure.

Another pattern is that of "Broken Dishes" and the lesson here is how to make something beautiful out of broken pieces . . shattered dreams . . things in life we didn't want . . or plan.
Some of us have had to pick up the pieces from things that seem shattered beyond hope or repair. It is only by the incredible grace of God and His love . . .love we can never begin to describe, fathom or understand . . that we can draw on His strength, power and healing. If we can let His hand guide our hands and His heart beat through ours as we pick up the "broken dishes" we will see what beauty His Healing can create!!!

PSALM 93

2010-04-25T08:02:00.000-07:00

Daily, moment by moment . . . each time I see the glorious sunrise and spectacular sunset . . . I know that I am NOT alone and that I DO have the hope of eternity and God's promises. What freedom!!!

"The Lord reigns, He is clothed with majesty; the Lord has clothed and girded Himself with strength; indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved. They throne is established from of old; thou art from everlasting.
The floods have lifted up, O Lord, the floods have lifted up their voice; the floods lift up their pounding waves.
More than the sounds of many waters, than the mighty breakers of the sea. The Lord on high is mighty.
Thy testimonies are fully confirmed; holiness befits Thy house O Lord, forevermore." Psalm 93

Thoughts on QUILTS

2010-04-04T14:09:00.001-07:00

I was recently given the gift of the book "Quilts from Heaven" by Lucinda Secrest McDowell. It is a wonderful book on the "parables from the patchwork of life". This is an excerpt.

" Pieces of My Quilt"

If quilts could talk

I'd like to think I'd hear just what they'd say,

"I'll hold you close within my folds and wipe

your tears away. I'll keep you warm and give you strength to face another day,"

If quilts could talk . . .

If quilts would sing

I'd like to think I'd recognize each tune,

The lullaby or funeral dirge or wedding march in June.

Both sweet and haunting melodies I'd listen to them croon.

If quilts could sing . . .

If quilts could write

I'd like to think I'd read the words they'd pen

Of life and love and motherhood, of mystery without end.

And, oh, the drama they could share of everywhere they'd been.

If quilts could write . . .

If quilts could pray

I'd like to think I'd feel each heartfelt prayer

of thankfulness or grea concern for those within their care;

petitions to a loving God - the One who's always there.

If quilts could pray . . .

The quilt of my own life

Finds voice to talk, sing, write, and pray

As it weaves a hundred stories in its own eclectic way.

And with each stitch of grace and hope my legacy is built;

All fragments finally made a whole . . .

the pieces of my quilt."

The quilts in the picture are those that I now have, all gifts after our house fire in July 1994. Two of them came from the womens auxiliary units of two different local volunteer fire departments.

The others are from different rural community farmwives groups. I knew many of the ladies who hands had a part in making them . . . and they were work-worn, loving hands. I love these quilts and the ladies who made them!!!!!

SPRING in Colorado!!

2010-04-03T21:16:00.000-07:00

We have a lot of chubby robins hopping around our yard these days. These little visitors were all fluffed up and hunkered down this past Thursday morning after one of our spring snows. There were more in that group that didn't get their sweet little faces in the picture.

With the coming of spring in Colorado, there is always a lot of uncertainty in the weather. We can have sunshine, snow, rain, sleet, wind . . and more all just a few hours. And, then it can repeat it all over again more than once in the day.

But, spring brings incredible reminders of hope and new life. We see the green grass starting to break through the soil. There are flowers poking their heads up towards the sun and sometimes through the latest little snowfall.

Driving through the farm country provides endless scenes of new lambs and calves frolicking around in the fields. And we are reminded that life goes on and it is precious!!!

I'm thankful for the reminders of new life and hope . . . and I'm thankful for the new life and hope that we have in our Lord Jesus Christ! The Easter season and Resurrection week celebrations are amazing reminders of the fact that we serve a RISEN and LIVING CHRIST!!!
HALLELUJAH!!!!

NEW HOPE in a NEW YEAR

2010-01-08T10:59:00.000-08:00

It would seem that when January of a new year rolls around we tend to say we're going to do certain things, make changes in our lives, etc. We have good intentions and sometimes can carry it off for a while. Depending on what the "thing" is determines how well and/or how long we can carry it off.
I don't really make "resolutions" but I try to look at the new year with renewed hope and anticipation of things to come, of the things that God is going to do in my life, in my family and in the world around me. In 2009 I started, and completed, a year-long plan for reading through the entire Bible . . . what a rewarding and enriching experience. I started the plan all over again because there is SO MUCH in the Bible that I will NEVER "get" it all and I hope to grow even more by reading through it again. I do the same with the "My Utmost for His Highest" devotional collection written by Oswald Chambers. I have read that each year through and through for many years. I have dog-eared the pages that really impacted me the first time through . . . they still impact me. I still gain insights through those devotional writings.
I look forward to continued work on all the creative projects that I enjoy. I look forward to more time in our mountains this summer; to the commitment that I have with my daughter, Robin, to the breast cancer awareness events that we do every year; to time with my husband, Bill, as we continue to work on our creative projects, do Farmers Market, raise a garden, hang out toether and generally annoy each other as we have lovingly done for 41 years; to time with our son Jeremy and watching him embrace life and people around him as only he can.
I will continue to walk my long power walks . . . I call them "wogs" because they sometimes including some jogging. I will continue to play the piano, to sing, to enjoy my canine companion and friend, Bramble and the comfort of the cozy little house that the Lord has graciously provided us with. I will continue to mow the lawn and let the fragrance of cut grass envelope me; to plant a garden and enjoy the scent of good, ole garden dirt and derive pleasure of having dirt under my fingernails and on my bare feet as I work in my garden and flower beds . . . and then sit on our deck in the evening and relish the clean air, the cool Colorado climate and the gorgeous view of "our" mountains!!!
I will continue to love my Farmgirl Connection farmgirl friends and cherish those friendships . . . and pray for them. I will continue to care for my sister . . . and pray that the Lord will continue to give us the hope that only He can give.
I will continue to find myself on my knees before my Creator, my Shepherd, my Healer, my Comforter, my Provider . . . my Saviour, Lord and King . . . thanking Him!!! Praising Him!!! Loving Him!!!

WORDS OF PROMISE

2009-12-16T15:39:00.000-08:00

Another writing from Max Lucado in "Grace For The Moment".

"Every Christmas I read this reminder that came in the mail several years ago:

If our greatest need had been information, God would have sent an educator. If our greatest need had been technology, God would have sent us a scientist. If our greatest need had been money, God would have sent us an economist. But since our greatest need was forgiveness, God sent us a Savior.

Christmas cards. Punctuated promises. Phrases filled with the reason we do it all anyway.

He became like us, so we could become like him.

Angels still sing and the star still beckons.

He loves each one of us like there was only one of us to love.

God has given a son to us . . . His name will be Wonderful Counselor, Powerful God . . .
Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Excerpted from"When God Whispers Your Name"

THANK YOU FOR THE GIFT!!! THANK FOR THE HOPE WE HAVE!!! THANK YOU FOR OUR FREEDOM!!!! THANK YOU!!!!!

Grace Upon Grace

2009-12-09T18:59:00.001-08:00

Today's writing from Max Lucado's "Grace for the Moment" devotional book.

"Test this question: What if God's only gift to you were his grace to save you. Would you be content? You beg him to save the life of your child. You plead with him to keep your business afloat. You implore him to remove the cancer from your body. What if his answer is, "My grace is enough." Would you be content?
You see, from heaven's perspective, grace is enough. If God did nothing more than save us from hell, could anyone complain? . . . Having been given eternal life, dare we grumble at an aching body? Having been given heavenly riches, dare we bemoan earthly poverty? . . .
If you have eyes to read these words, hands to hold this book, the means to own this volume, he has already given you grace upon grace."

Philippians 4:11 "I have learned to be satisfied with the things I have and with everything
that happens".

This is also excerpted from his book "In The Grip of Grace".

WOW!!! Does this make you think!! It certainly hit home with me!! I pray that I can be content!!

I PRAY FOR YOU . . .

2009-11-29T08:44:00.000-08:00

Comfort on difficult days,
Smiles when sadness intrudes,
Rainbows to follow the clouds,
Laughter to kiss your lips,
Sunsets to warm your hearts
Gentle hugs when spirits sag,
Friendships to brighten your being,
Beauty for your eyes to see,
Confidence for when you doubt,
Faith so that you can believe,
Courage to know yourself,
Patience to accept the truth,
and love to complete your life.
I ask the Lord to bless you, as I pray, to guide you and protect you as you go along your way. His love is always with you, His promises are true, you know He will see us through, So when the road you're traveling on seems difficult at best . . . GOD WILL DO THE REST!!!

Thanksgiving Thoughts - God's Alphabet

2009-11-20T18:57:00.000-08:00

Although things are not perfect
Because of trial or pain
Continue in thanksgiving
Do not begin to blame
Even when the times are hard
Fierce winds are bound to blow
God is forever able
Hold on to what you know
Imagine life without His love
Joy would cease to be
Keep thanking Him for all things
Love imparts to thee
Move out of "Camp Complaining"
No weapon that is known
On earth can yield the power
Praise can do alone
Quit looking at the future
Redeem the time at hand
Start every day with worship
To "thank" is a command
Until we see Him coming
Victorious in the sky
We'll run the race with gratitude
eXalting God most high
Yes, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad, but
Zion waits in glory . . .where none are ever sad!!!

Time to Reflect

2009-11-14T19:54:00.000-08:00

I have journaled for years . . . it is a place to express and speak my heart and thoughts.

Just recently I have started making short, daily entries about one thing I am grateful for that day. This has also provided a time for me to really reflect on the past, the present and the future. It has also provided opportunity for me to spend time with the Lord, to pray . . . to intercede . . . to praise Him and to thank Him!!!

GRATITUDE

2009-11-14T19:12:00.000-08:00

We get so caught up in the challenges of life, which include all the struggles, stresses and difficulties, that we forget to actually look at what we have to be grateful for!!!
Certain aspects of my life are difficult, frustrating and discouraging. But I'm trying to focus more and more on what I have to be grateful for. I have a job!!! I have a home that's paid for!! I have a husband who loves me, sticks by me and puts up with my idiosyncracies!! I am able to pay my bills, we are out of debt and are able to eat and take care of necessities.
We have good health with hardly any illnesses. We have some very close, dear friends we can count on! We have the BEST neighbors!!! We have the hope of our eternal home in heaven and can claim the heritage of being CHILDREN OF THE KING!!! PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!

A Celtic Heart is . .

2009-09-08T17:04:00.000-07:00

. . . one of PASSION
. . . one of COMMITMENT

I am passionate about & committed to my relationship to the Lord Jesus Christ!! I am passionate about and committed to my family!!!