NO WALLS

This says it all---exactly how I feel----

I dare you to listen and NOT tap your toes---

it makes me want to dance!




BLESSED SABBATH!

SUMMER ENDS IN THE HOOD

RESULTS ARE IN AND 




Our neighborhood came in SECOND (wow!) in pounds per household
donated. How much did we donate? 847 pounds of food, and most of
it was protein. (Food banks often have lots of carbs and run short of
protein.) 


We had a GREAT neighborhood chairperson who kept us all spurred on.

THE CHILDREN RETURNED TO SCHOOL LAST WEEK---

No sidewalks in sight--but walking together is showing unity!



There is a stream of children every morning walking the few blocks to school.

MEANWHILE--

Most of my week was spent on the other side of town with this guy-



I only had to chase after one--my question is HOW does his mother chase after three and WHAT will we do with a new baby in the mix in January!  She gets my vote for SUPER WOMAN!


AND---SHHHHHHH!--

I am on a quick road trip---little FUN & R&R before Fall schedule begins.  We will see just WHO among my kith & kin reads my missives---since I have not told a soul!

SINFUL YET PRECIOUS

I spent four days in the company of a man this week--that once again proved we are all born sinful!

He was SO willful---always wanted HIS way---with NO thought to my desires--SO inconsiderate!

He walked through a room and left his mess strewn from one end to the other with NO thought of picking it up.  Even when I gently reminded him, "Wouldn't you like to put your cheetos package in the trash"--he would just keep trucking!

He only eats what HE likes to eat---and that pretty much is junk---UNLESS I happen to have something in my hand which I am enjoying---AND THEN---he would like a bite of my Spinach salad!  NO time for me to run get him a fork--he prefers picking up my fork and shoving it in or better yet--just putting his hands in for a quick bite.

LOVES to run around sans clothes---enjoys a good streaking anytime/anywhere--even in the backyard if given the opportunity!

Wants to watch the SAME music videos---large machinery films---over and over!  There is only one computer---if I DARE open it up--he is there in a flash whining about what HE wants to watch!

Never washed a dish---did a load of laundry---or even picked up a dirty towel.  House work seems to be outside of his job description.

Dirt is his middle name----do you remember the cartoon character "Pigpen"?  


One moment clean as a whistle--the next his entire day's menu is on the front of his shirt--and I will NOT even speak about his runny nose!

Yes--we are ALL born sinful--willful--self-centered---AND yet---I was reminded me how easy it is for God to love us---




But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8

NO HONOR

A prophet has no honor in their hometown.  An oft quoted scripture--but one we associate with Jesus.  I am no prophet-but I have been mulling this over since a recent comment was made on a friend's blog.  Her son in law made a sweet comment about the post she had published and I told her it was high praise since it came from her SIL and reminded her of this scripture--her response was the gear starter.  She told me she had been asked to speak to her local church and she said, "No Way".  This blogger is a talented writer with great Godly wisdom--but she is not willing to speak to her local friends.  Why?

In my original comment to her---I told her my family seldom reads my blog--nor do many of who have known me for a long time.  Why not?  They know me too well.  They know my feet are made of clay--they know my faults--they know my weakness--they know my failures.  They see and know me for who I truly am--scars, warts, dirt, and all---they know me.  Looking past the fallen--the not so Godly--certainly not Saintly--sinner for wisdom is difficult at best.  Some may even laugh and say, "Can you believe her!"  

Yes, I have made a mess of many things in my life---I stray off the path---I wander in the wrong direction---I become lost and fearful--but because of grace I am redeemed.  When God looks at me--He sees me through the blood of Jesus--and I am whole--complete--and beautiful and wise--in His sight.   He honors me with His love---What A Blessing!



He himself had said that a prophet is not honored in his own hometown.
John 4:44

AT THE HOP---NEXT DANCE!

DO NOT FORGET TO VISIT THESE FOUR FRIENDS BLOGS TODAY TO SEE THEIR ANSWERS TO THOSE EARTH SHATTERING QUESTIONS ABOUT WRITING---THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE HAS TURNED AN EAR AND ARE WAITING WITH BATED BREATH!

Seriously these guys are TALENTED and GREAT writers!





Brooke Ackley Freeland-a YOUNG Whipper-Snapper--Brooke is here at "Brooke & Freeland".  Brooke was a college classmate of my daughter and her husband was Dr. SIL's best friend and roommate.  I have watched them all grow up--marry--finish med school--have families---and most important grow in the Lord.  What an adventure life has been for them all.  Brooke & Freeland have three children (babies I might add-the oldest is four) and are in the process of adopting.  A gifted writer, Brooke's blog is widely read and loved by many and to top that off she is an extremely talented photographer.  WHEN does she find time to do all of this???  Here is a brief biographical sketch Brooke wrote for me.

Hi, Im Brooke! Wife to Freeland and mom to River, Wylder, and Chapel. I was born and raised in Texas and now live in Ohio for my husband's job.  We love living here and we love the story God is writing for us here too but I cant explain how much I miss Mexican food, BBQ, Blue Bell Ice Cream and kolaches… and all our family & friends too! I love blogging and sharing what the Lord is doing in our lives, I love photography, baking, coffee, and dreaming.  My husband & I are passionate about orphan care and missions. We’re in the process of opening our home to foster kids in the next few weeks with our hope to be able to adopt! Ive blogged since we were engaged and throughout or marriage, moves, and kids here atwww.brookeandfreeland.blogspot.com
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~


LINDA CONLEY--a mid lifer, Linda is another friend--via the WWW and blog surfing and I found her here at "Just Simply Linda." A Southern belle transplanted to the frigid north---her body may be present way up there, but her heart still rings of the South!  Her style is eclectic and she has a sharp wit and my kind of sense of humor.  Her glib comments ring familiar and reminiscent of my own brand of humor.  Linda is in the process of returning to school---mid-life--and beginning a career!  GOOD FOR HER!  Linda's husband was a Marine, but has suffered health reversals which have led to his disability.  They are proud parents to a 17 year old son--and her honest -but witty comments about raising a young adult--have a ring of truth for most of us.  Linda's bio is-

Just Simply Linda

Is a 47 year old College Freshman, Christian wife & mom, and a Southern Tea Party girl transplanted to the liberal north a year ago. She has been married for 25 years to her high school sweetheart and they have one 17 year old son. The family lives with their German Shepherd in a big old house in western upstate NY. Her head is also filled with useless information, hence the reason for the blog.


~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 





LEN WOODS--beyond the mid life mark--but not past prime is my long time friend BRUTHER LEN!  Len was my pastor before my move and his blog "Typing in Tongues" is found here.  GIFTED---yet again---another talented writer, Len has authored several books and articles.  Communication with compassion would be my description of Len's forte.  A DIE HARD Saints fan---Len has proven with perseverance sometimes the impossible does become possible.  A Louisiana boy with purple and gold roots Len is the one we all stand close to on Sunday mornings--hoping to get through the crowd and get a kind word.  My modest friend Len has this to say about himself-

A Louisiana native, Len is a husband (to Cindi from Indy), proud father, and lifelong New Orleans Saints fan. After graduating from LSU (1980, journalism) and Dallas Theological Seminary (1987, systematic theology), Len has spent most of his adult life in pastoral/church ministry. Along the way he has also been a magazine editor (at Walk thru The Bible Ministries), an award-winning author, and has had brief stints as a chauffeur, waiter, meat grinder, and bookstore clerk. When not writing, Len enjoys coffee or dinner with friends, road trips, waterfalls, and dreaming of Colorado.



~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 



VANETTE HARRIS-my peer--Vannie is like me--we have aged with grace.  Vannie is the wife of a sweet peer and neighbor from my childhood.  She can be found here at "The Journey of Gypsy Rhapsody".  Vannie graciously ghost writes for the Airstream travel trailer "Gypsy Rhapsody" which they have made their home.  A travel log full of the adventures and travels all over this great country of Dave & Vannie as they live the retirement dream.  I am traveling vicariously with them as I read not only of the places they have been--but especially the wonderful people all over this land they have befriended.  Vannie writes of herself-

Author of her own blog site, artist want-to-be, seamstress, kinda-sorta vegan, wife, mom, grandmom, retired teacher…Vanette has discovered that life is all about the journey.  She knows that God has a plan just for her.  After retiring with forty-two years of teaching, she and her husband of forty-seven years sold their home in Lafayette, Louisiana, bought an old “fixer-upper” Airstream, and headed out to seek their fortune.  They have never looked back.  Future plans include a trip to Paris, France in 2015 (not in the Airstream or their budget), so Vannie is working this summer in Red River, New Mexico as a housekeeper for a condominium.  “You just never know where life leads…don’t get caught twiddling your thumbs.”

INVISIBLE

I finally discovered my SUPER power---I am invisible!  I was not born with this super power--it is a "Johnny Come Lately" coinciding with my move.  Being in the Big City has helped develop this power.  




I am able to walk into any store and others look straight through me--or around me--or totally ignore me.  Why this could not possibly happen--unless I was invisible.

I stumble into a room where a group of people are sitting or milling around and no one looks my way.  I must be invisible since not one word is uttered to me.  The anti-dote for my invisibility is speaking a word.  If I say "Hello" the power disappears and I become visible--since most of the time I am answered.  It is truly amazing--walk in the room--invisible---say not a word--invisible---speak--and presto---I am visible.

The same thing happens even at church---walk into a room filled with a thousand or more people---sit in a seat in the middle of a row--with people all around me---I am INVISIBLE--no one says a word.  IF there is a greeting time, I am momentarily visible---I say something--but quickly become invisible again.  






I live in the midst of hundred of thousands of people--seven million if you included the entire two city --mid-city area and I can become invisible for days at a time.  It is amazing!

This has caused me to pause and think---how many more out there also share this super power?  How many more are walking around with no one seeing them--totally invisible?  It is quite amazing!

But as it is written: “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.”
I Corinthians 2:9

A FADING FLOWER

You might ask, "Who Am I?"----




BLESSED SABBATH !

THIS WEEK IN THE HOOD



How cute is this!!  The neighbors in the Hood are uniting in an effort to get sidewalks built for the children to walk to and from school.  The school Kyle is referring to is a few blocks away from us all---walking distance--so in an effort to provide safe paths for these precious children and to promote healthy life styles including walking---City Hall is being deluged by us all.

NEIGHBORS UNITED!

LIFE GIVING WATER

It has been a hot and dry summer here in Texas.  After weeks of milder temperatures, summer returned with a vengeance.  Though my yard is tiny, it still requires water to stay green and for the plants to bloom.  We have watering restrictions here due to the severe drought of the past few years. The sprinkler system can only be run twice a week, but hand watering is allowed.   This requires wisdom in what you plant and diligence in supplying water by hand to select plants.



I have worked at keeping things alive.  Watering early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent the life giving moisture from evaporating in the heat of the day.  Most things are surviving, but the effects of the extreme heat are visible.



Today it finally rained and I sat and watched and listened as the heavens poured down the life giving water.  As much as I try, my efforts will never equal the benefits of a good rain.  A gentle shower from the clouds will always out benefit any man made attempts at watering.  I thanked God for the wonderful shower as I looked at my happy yard.






It is quite like our attempts at supplying water for our hearts and souls through man made efforts.  We may read the good books, listen to beautiful music, view wonderful works of art, but the greatest enrichment of our souls comes from God.  His words, songs of praise to Him, the majesty of nature He created all around us---the well spring of living water He pours over us over and over.  No man made attempt will ever equal God's living water in quenching our thirst for love and beauty---He is the well spring of living water. 


but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
John 4:14

SECRET LIFE

Close the door and lock the bolt, draw the drapes, lower the blinds, and dim the lights.  What happens behind closed doors with no one to witness will never harm.  Steal away--out of view--enter the cover of darkness and indulge in forbidden pleasures.  Eat whatever pleases us, watch whatever entertains us, read whatever amuses us, or drink whatever you might want--we are alone--no one knows--who will be harmed?  

Who will know of our secret passions--if we carefully keep it hidden from the eyes of others.  Never daring to tell---always silent and secretive--who will ever know or care.  What they do not know--will not hurt them--so keep it a secret--utter not a word.  The world is easily fooled and we are in control.



Ignore those silent stares of those who might suspect; deny the elephant sitting in the middle of the room; and explain away even the slightest doubt.  They will believe us--no one suspects a thing.  The truth will never come to light of the secrets in our lives.




There is no need for secrecy if not for shame.  Secrecy and shame walk hand in hand down the wayward path.  Shame is the signpost - the indicator you have turned from the path of righteousness unto the detour--the straight road to worldly desires.  The road requiring dousing the light and stumbling in the dark.



Unless and until, we like David, allow obsession to overtake us, desire to rule over reason, and entitlement to trump integrity.  Until we discover with the harsh reality of consequences, the secret was never ever unknown.  

God is watching us---like Adam and Eve---we are unable to hide or deny or make excuses.  There are no secrets--He is all knowing--all seeing--and never fooled by our denial.  We stand exposed and starkly naked before the throne---grabbing for the cloak of righteousness--never mind the blood on our hands---shouting our claim for the cloak of grace--to cover the guilty stain of the secrets in our lives.

There is a safe hiding place.  A refuge -- a high fortress---in the shadow of The Defender--where we will be protected and away from the trappers snare.  The only truly safe -secret place--



When will we learn?
You did your deed in secret;
I'm doing mine with the whole country watching.
(God's proclamation to David after the death of Uriah)
II Samuel 12:12

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
 will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say to The Lord,  My refuge and my fortress;
My God, in whom I trust.
For He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler,
And from the deadly pestilence.
Psalm 91: 1-3

AN ASS WHUPPING!

Asses do not get whipped here in the South---they get whupped!  This fellow popped into my head today-



IF I were riding a donkey (in a effort to be nice I will refer to the ass as a donkey), that I had ridden for YEARS without problem and he refused to move on the latest trip---would I take it as a sign that God wanted me to stay?  Probably not---NOW I am not an abuser of animals--so there would be no whupping of the ass (WHOOPS, SORRY!), BUT I would be trying to figure out what the problem was.  IF said, donkey after three beatings, began to speak to me--NOT in donkey talk, but with words---would I have a conversation with him?  Would I not consider it a tad bit unusual that a donkey was questioning my treatment of him?  Would it NOT occur to me that speech coming from a donkey's mouth was some kind of miracle?  OH NO--- it would take the sudden appearance of an angel with a sword to get my attention.  A donkey talking would not do the trick!

So it is, Friends---God is showing us--God is directing us---and still we go on our merry way down the primrose path away from His will.  So bent upon what we think will make us happy, we refuse to acknowledge the signs and even the road blocks thrown in our path---we just keep on trucking-looking past those signs and walking around the barricades--headed exactly where we do not need to be.  We are a bunch of dumb ----WHOOPS!

God is reminding me---look around ---read His Word---listen for His directions---stay on the path---the things of this world are fleeting--He is eternal---
When your donkey is in the ditch---look for the cause and ask for direction--before whupping the ---!


God's angel said to him, "Why have you beaten your poor donkey these three times? I have come to block your way because you're getting way ahead of yourself.  The donkey saw me and turned away these three times. If she hadn't, I would have killed you by this time, but not the donkey. I would have let her off."
Numbers 22:32-33

AT THE HOP

We bloggers all got together---and decided to play a game--


Blog Hop!

In my usual distracted-but enthusiastic manner---I just wanted to Play!

OH---groan--but you have to be picked----


Pick me--pick me--here I am, pick me!!!

And GLORY BE, this lovely lady---a YANKEE---NO LESS (GASP!) she chose me!


Linda Stoll-- Linda stays here at "Creekside Ministries" and in a kind act of compassion--she picked me to be on her side!  A counselor and life-coach (yes, I know I could stand some counselling) but most important Jesus Lover, Linda and I clicked from the very first blog and comment when I dropped by to see her.  She is now a blog coach---and heaven knows if I were coachable--I would pick her to be my coach.  A woman of wisdom, Linda has learned sitting at the feet of The Master and generously shares her in-sight and prods us to live a better life.  

The game--we all answer four questions about our writing and then introduce three more bloggers for you to enjoy.  Being slightly rebellious-I chose four--but when you read these four---you will want to hug my neck for sharing my wealth.  SO with no further adieu--I answer these earth moving questions before giving you the real prize--my four wonderful friends and their blogs!


Here's the 4 questions:


1 What am I writing or working on?

Currently I am working on getting my rear out of the bed every morning and trying to be productive, OH WAIT---you meant writing?

Daily I write a “To Do List”—which I promptly leave where I cannot find it---I also keep a growing grocery list—which I forget to take to the grocery store and of course, there is “My Last Will and Testament”.  OH STILL NOT YOU WANTED?

At the moment I am only blogging.  I am brainstorming the creation of my final blog—FINALLY I HAVE A DOMAIN-YET to be named!  The blog you are reading today is my third title—each created when I began a new season of life.  The one to come will be my final blog---pretty sure I am in the home stretch!

There are other books up there making the circle in the vast yet to be explained frontier of my mind —but I am floundering in my search for God to reveal my current “Object of Mission”.  God seems to love teaching me patience!  I have four chapters of a book written---and had to stop.  The story of the inspiring women God has placed in my life—it was so difficult to write of their pain and struggles that I had to put it down.  I have all the notes—and a good start—waiting for a stronger time in my life and a push from God to finish a job begun. 

There are several ideas—floating around in the vast emptiness of my brain---children’s books---how to be single----tales of Southern living---the story of my mother’s life---all waiting for me to get out of the bed one morning and become productive.

2 How does my work differ from others of its genre?

Genre---don’t we LOVE to throw that word around!  When did we go from classifications to genre?  The best description of my “Genre” is Random Eclectic.  Pretty much whatever God has placed on my heart and in my head---goes on the page.  Follow my reasoning here---SO if it pops into my head---and no one can read minds---it obviously is different from what anyone else writes.  Different—but similar—after all how many truly original thoughts are there?  My life experiences are different from yours, thus my perspective of truth will be different.  We can all learn from each other by sharing our slant on the same subject.  When I write, I hope to make you think—ponder—examine-wonder---if one reader is stretched I have done my job.

Then there are the days—I write silliness---adventures---stories—all to amuse—perhaps give a moment of levity or even a chuckle in days filled with seriousness.  Bluntly honest about the trials and tribulations of aging and being single, I find it best to laugh at myself and share the mirth.  Surely we are all comforted to know we are not the only aging klutz in a world filled with youth’s perfection?

Finally---occasionally I even write bad poetry—my poor literature teachers must be turning in their graves!





3 Why do I write what I write?

WHY NOT?  I flunked coloring in the first grade and all my artistic endeavors since have been reminiscent.  For some reason---writing comes natural—no effort—it just pours out of me.  My best writing—is always God inspired.  The days I think—this is a pitiful excuse—who will read beyond the first paragraph?—those are the days with the most readers and comments.  The days I think---HOME RUN!—no comments—few readers.  I do not get it---BUT that is OK! What speaks to me—may not speak to you.

I write mostly—for God’s Good Pleasure.  He that gave me the gifts and talents should always be glorified.

It is not always easy being single—we will all be single one day—unless you go first---hopefully I am blazing a trail and giving a map of how to finish well---even alone.  There are tons of talented young (anyone still wet behind the ears or under 40) writers on the WWW—not as many old fossils around.  I am NOT older than dirt—and still like to play in the dirt—but not still making mud pies.  The wisdom that comes with a lifetime of experience might encourage others trekking the path and maybe a YES-PREACH ON, SISTER! From those in the same life stage.

4 How does my writing process work?

OH-this is supposed to be a process?  

When the topic pops in my head—I write down a few words—on note pads, on my smart phone, in margins, on any available surface.  I then revisit them and write at a later time.  I have found if I write those few words—the idea and the details around it will all bubble to the surface once I begin the act of writing.

I take inspiration from The Word, sermons, books I read, the things going on around me, nature, a song on the radio --pretty much anything I come into contact with. It is amazing to look at the ordinary and see visions of the extraordinary. Being a bubble off center and having the ability to look at a tree and see more than a future chair has also been helpful.


My primary hope in writing is readers will see God’s redemption woven throughout my words and my life.  His faithful love, care, and provision are evidenced in who I am today.  He inspires me, guides me, and faithfully walks beside me every step of the way.  If one—only one—reads and walks away desiring Him---my process is then complete.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

I decided to give you four very different blogs--with varying themes --it is a good representation of what I love to read---ANYTHING & EVERYTHING.  I will introduce them by age---and SURPRISE---a man in the mix!  It is with great joy-I share my extremely talented blog friends ---happy reading from some of the best!
 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 



Brooke Ackley Freeland-a YOUNG Whipper-Snapper--Brooke is here at "Brooke & Freeland".  Brooke was a college classmate of my daughter and her husband was Dr. SIL's best friend and roommate.  I have watched them all grow up--marry--finish med school--have families---and most important grow in the Lord.  What an adventure life has been for them all.  Brooke & Freeland have three children (babies I might add-the oldest is four) and are in the process of adopting.  A gifted writer, Brooke's blog is widely read and loved by many and to top that off she is an extremely talented photographer.  WHEN does she find time to do all of this???  Here is a brief biographical sketch Brooke wrote for me.

Hi, Im Brooke! Wife to Freeland and mom to River, Wylder, and Chapel. I was born and raised in Texas and now live in Ohio for my husband's job.  We love living here and we love the story God is writing for us here too but I cant explain how much I miss Mexican food, BBQ, Blue Bell Ice Cream and kolaches… and all our family & friends too! I love blogging and sharing what the Lord is doing in our lives, I love photography, baking, coffee, and dreaming.  My husband & I are passionate about orphan care and missions. We’re in the process of opening our home to foster kids in the next few weeks with our hope to be able to adopt! Ive blogged since we were engaged and throughout or marriage, moves, and kids here atwww.brookeandfreeland.blogspot.com
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~


LINDA CONLEY--a mid lifer, Linda is another friend--via the WWW and blog surfing and I found her here at "Just Simply Linda." A Southern belle transplanted to the frigid north---her body may be present way up there, but her heart still rings of the South!  Her style is eclectic and she has a sharp wit and my kind of sense of humor.  Her glib comments ring familiar and reminiscent of my own brand of humor.  Linda is in the process of returning to school---mid-life--and beginning a career!  GOOD FOR HER!  Linda's husband was a Marine, but has suffered health reversals which have led to his disability.  They are proud parents to a 17 year old son--and her honest -but witty comments about raising a young adult--have a ring of truth for most of us.  Linda's bio is-

Just Simply Linda
 
Is a 47 year old College Freshman, Christian wife & mom, and a Southern Tea Party girl transplanted to the liberal north a year ago. She has been married for 25 years to her high school sweetheart and they have one 17 year old son. The family lives with their German Shepherd in a big old house in western upstate NY. Her head is also filled with useless information, hence the reason for the blog.



~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 






LEN WOODS--beyond the mid life mark--but not past prime is my long time friend BRUTHER LEN!  Len was my pastor before my move and his blog "Typing in Tongues" is found here.  GIFTED---yet again---another talented writer, Len has authored several books and articles.  Communication with compassion would be my description of Len's forte.  A DIE HARD Saints fan---Len has proven with perseverance sometimes the impossible does become possible.  A Louisiana boy with purple and gold roots Len is the one we all stand close to on Sunday mornings--hoping to get through the crowd and get a kind word.  My modest friend Len has this to say about himself-

A Louisiana native, Len is a husband (to Cindi from Indy), proud father, and lifelong New Orleans Saints fan. After graduating from LSU (1980, journalism) and Dallas Theological Seminary (1987, systematic theology), Len has spent most of his adult life in pastoral/church ministry. Along the way he has also been a magazine editor (at Walk thru The Bible Ministries), an award-winning author, and has had brief stints as a chauffeur, waiter, meat grinder, and bookstore clerk. When not writing, Len enjoys coffee or dinner with friends, road trips, waterfalls, and dreaming of Colorado.



~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 



VANETTE HARRIS-my peer--Vannie is like me--we have aged with grace.  Vannie is the wife of a sweet peer and neighbor from my childhood.  She can be found here at "The Journey of Gypsy Rhapsody".  Vannie graciously ghost writes for the Airstream travel trailer "Gypsy Rhapsody" which they have made their home.  A travel log full of the adventures and travels all over this great country of Dave & Vannie as they live the retirement dream.  I am traveling vicariously with them as I read not only of the places they have been--but especially the wonderful people all over this land they have befriended.  Vannie writes of herself-

Author of her own blog site, artist want-to-be, seamstress, kinda-sorta vegan, wife, mom, grandmom, retired teacher…Vanette has discovered that life is all about the journey.  She knows that God has a plan just for her.  After retiring with forty-two years of teaching, she and her husband of forty-seven years sold their home in Lafayette, Louisiana, bought an old “fixer-upper” Airstream, and headed out to seek their fortune.  They have never looked back.  Future plans include a trip to Paris, France in 2015 (not in the Airstream or their budget), so Vannie is working this summer in Red River, New Mexico as a housekeeper for a condominium.  “You just never know where life leads…don’t get caught twiddling your thumbs.”

Have you stayed with me to the end?  I KNOW I am not usually so wordy--but these are all GOOD WORDS---AND I HAVE to play the game!

so one week from today--I WILL REMIND YOU---expect to hear from these four and then they will send you to three more bloggers---UNLESS--they are rebellious like me!  LET THE GAMES BEGIN!


WHAT A CHARACTER!

We all have characters in our lives.  Some characters - that when you spot them--you go out of your way in order to avoid a conversation.  How many trips to the grocery or Wal Mart have been interrupted with a mad dash across the store to avoid a face to face confrontation with one of these characters. 


 There are characters I love running into---the friend who always offered a do nut as I ran by his car on my long Saturday run, the friend who told the waiter the table full of women eating with him were his "sister wives", the friend who is related to everyone in the parish and knows at least one story about each of them, and the friend whose southern drawl has entertained us all-from one side of the country to the other.  Wonderful characters who enrich and color my life with smiles and laughter.



Then there is this little character in my life.  He still does not say much---but what he does not say--he makes up for with his actions.  He has me wrapped around his little finger---anyone who cries when I walk out the door--melts my heart.  We all love to be loved---BUT this little stinker requires a set of eyes upon him every waking minute.  He has disassembled my printer, moved all my breakables, and robbed the snack cabinet every time he walks in my house--not to mention pulling his brothers hair, socking them without provocation, and snatching toys with the best of them.  He takes FULL advantage of being the baby!  He is in for a rude awakening come January! OH have I told you grand #6 is arriving in January?




Yes, my life is filled with characters--but today I was nudged not about individual characters in my life, but character which indicates how one thinks, feels, or behaves--our personalities--the bottom line of who we are.  Those who are well thought of---honest, filled with integrity, and of high morals--are said to be of great character.  What gives one the mark of great character?  How do we learn to be of good character?

A sermon I heard today touched on God allowing adversity in our lives to teach us good character.  The manner in which we handle the bad things--the unfair things--the hard things is the training ground for character.  David Jeremiah said, "Instead of asking, Why me, God?; we should ask What would you have me to learn from this, God?"  Well said---sometimes difficult--but well said.  It has caused me to back up and think about life and its lessons.  Am I developing character or becoming an eccentric old character?  Food for thought on this Monday morning!



And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ,  
Philippians 1:9-10

GRACE

How many of us accepted grace---but have failed to extend grace?  The picture is not complete--until you do.

Blessed Sabbath-


COOKED GOOSE

MEANWHILE Back in the Hood, there has been another outbreak of vandalism--including eggings this past week.  You know--last minute hurrah before school starts.  Some Poor Teens have made a HUGE mistake.  It seems here in the Big City--across the way--where the rich people live---they have sophisticated surveillance systems- with video taping capabilities.  WHOOPS!  GOTCHA!




Here it is on YouTube for all the world to see!  Thankfully you do not see the names these young men were called in the email that was sent to several of the local hoods in the quest to identify the perps.  Something tells me there are going to be some REALLY unhappy parents!       
  I am getting hungry--I smell a cooked goose!


DON'T MESS WITH TEXAS!

AND THEN WE FORGET

We are all deeply saddened and profoundly affected by the loss of Robin Williams.  A tragedy which has focused the media spotlight on the disease of depression.  We all are alarmed---on vigilant watch for those who may be affected since that day.  A public outcry for understanding and compassion has been issued for those who suffer. A heightened sensitivity and call for watchfulness has resounded for those affected around us.  Some slowly raise their hands and announce, "Me too",  I have known the demon--I have felt his torment--I have felt the tug of total loss of hope.  We are circling---comforting---sympathetic and empathetic--assuring all afflicted of our support --but the day will come--sooner than we expect--when we will forget.

It is never intentional--it happens without malice or purpose--it just happens.  9/11 came and we were shocked--rolled back on our heels---alarmed at how this could have happened.  We stood together--arm in arm--united against those who would dare to attack us--supporting those who lost so much that day---vigilant that it never be allowed to occur again.  It pulled us together and we flocked to churches--praying for those who lost---asking God's favor on our country.  The enemy was attacked--a victory was claimed---and then we began to forget.  We turned our eyes away from God and focused on the fracture created by political differences.  

It is repeated over and over through out history.  Read through 2 Kings---they forgot over and over.  Life became good--they became complacent---took the blessings for granted and turned from God.  Disaster would follow, they would unite in worship of God--begging forgiveness and favor, only to have the same pattern repeat once again.  Mankind are slow-learners---or we never learn.  Sadly it often takes great tragedy to open our eyes and turn them back to The Father. We do not intend to forget--it just happens.

My prayer--Lord sharpen our memories--prick our conscious--open our eyes --give us the wisdom to realize when others suffer we are Your hands and feet--we are blessed to be Your servants.  Help us, Lord, to not forget.

"Remember the former things long past, For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like Me, -
Isaiah 46:9 


POWER

Unless you know me really well, you do not realize my secret television obsession.  I do not watch much television these days, but occasionally in a weak moment I revert back to old habits.  I love to watch emergency room and surgery reality television.  I KNOW GROSS!  Consider this--it is my shark week, mountain man, dancing with the stars, idol, what to wear----I like blood, guts, needles, scalpels.

When my Kindle ran out of juice, I was forced to watch a hour of high drama television tonight.  For once I saw the value and did not think I wasted those moments.  

There was a woman whose heart stopped while in the emergency department during the show I was watching.   They pulled out all of their tricks--pushed all of the bells and whistles.  NOTHING---Flat Line.  Somehow her husband got past all the closed doors--- needed codes---and locks and walked into the room where they were working.  He asked could he put his hands on his wife.  Amazingly the doctor granted his request, I suspect he had given up all hope by this time.  He walked over--placed his hands on his wife's head, bowed his head, and was silent---the entire room was silent.  After a few moments, he backed away and began to leave.  All of a sudden her heart beat returned -with no medical intervention going on -her heart began to beat and her blood pressure began to rise.  Miraculously she was brought back from death with no medical magic happening- after he prayed for her.  The doctor was even flabbergasted and had no medical explanation.

A miracle--perhaps--the power of prayer--perhaps--my theory-the power of love and prayer.  I strongly believe in the power of prayer.  Having been prayed for I have experienced the power of intervention and supplication, I know it works.  Combine prayer and love and it is powerful .  What a gift to have someone who loves you and that also knows the power of prayer.  Miracles do still happen--you must believe though--and NEVER doubt the power of love and prayer.

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
II Timothy 1:7


EMBRACE THE CHANGE

I went to see the movie "Hundred Foot Journey" today and as always came away pondering the deep meaning.  It seems I never take anything at face value, but always look beyond the surface.  I will not spoil the movie for you, but will tell you the undercurrent---embracing change while clinging to lessons from the past.  

Life is filled with change---some have more than others---but none of us remain in a bubble of sameness.  Our children grow up, our grandchildren grow up, jobs change, retirement happens, moves are made, our health declines, some leave us, and on and on.  It is the "Circle of Life".






My thoughts centered not on the changes that happen to us all, but on how we embrace those changes.  How we continue on down the path when change happens. Do we march forward or become mired down in what has been?   What is God's desire for our reaction as life slowly evolves as we march down the path?


I reflected upon Ruth and her reaction to all the changes in her life and how she reacted.  Faced with the loss of her husband and no children, Ruth could have returned to her family and tried to do it all again--the same.  Instead she embraced the change and declared her loyalty to her husband's remaining family.  She chose to move to a foreign land--leaving behind the familiar.   Reaping from the lessons of faith learned in her marriage, she chose to follow Naomi and listen to her wisdom, even in finding a new husband.   She was obedient. 

I desire to be true to who I am, but also accept the circumstances and changes of today.  Take the lessons from the past and use them in walking the path of today.  My life does not look today as it did a few short years ago---but God has a plan for the remaining days.  I pray I am able to embrace the change with the wisdom from the past in obedience to His direction.  


"Don't force me to leave you, don't make me go home.
Where you go, I go,
Where you live, I will live.
Your People are my people;
Your God is my God."
Ruth 1:16-17