Keeping my Branch Connected to the Vine

Stormy Skies and a Rainbow this Evening

2011-08-06T23:00:00.001-05:00

I went out this evening to do some gardening. It looked like it was getting dark early, but did not look like it was going to rain to me. After about ten minutes, it started to sprinkle, then it quickly turned into a thunderstorm. After quite a downpour, there was a rainbow, and beautiful fluffy clouds and colors in the sky. I went out with my camera, and again, was amazed at the beauty of God's creation. These photos are in the order they were taken.

Here's the rainbow. It didn't last very long.

I was tickled to catch a photo of the lightning.

It was hard to decide which part of the sky to look at. The beauty was different each direction. There were some awesome colors to the west.

I think this was still looking west. The huge puffy clouds were above the colors.

This may be to the north. The clouds were more spectacular in person. They looked like they were layer upon layer.

A couple neighbor ladies across the street to the north came out, and said I should come over and see the west from their yard. I like the different types of clouds in this one.

I took this one of our house with the lovely clouds above, on my way back home.

Here's a view from the back yard, with a clematis plant arching above the trellis.

God bless your Sunday! We are having a voters' meeting to call a new senior pastor at our church tomorrow. I am excited to see how it turns out. We have 3 men we are praying about to see which it will be. Any one of them would fit in well with our church.

Cloudy Skies

2011-06-09T13:55:00.000-05:00

I was sitting down to do my Bible study lesson for tonight's cell group, and it was John 15:1-11. These are the verses where Jesus said He was the vine, and we are the branches. That reminded me I hadn't posted for awhile, and when I realized today is Thursday here, but Friday will soon begin in other parts of the world, I decided to go out and take some photos for SkyWatch Friday. To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch button in the sidebar.

It's overcast, with rain expected soon. I got some plants put in this morning before the morning shower. It did not last long, though, so if it doesn't rain more, I'll need to get out and water the new plants.

I like to take photos of plants with the sky in the background. The sky blends in with the blog's background in this one. This is a clematis vine.

We had to have the tree in the front yard cut down this spring. The view from the porch is different.

This clematis does not climb, so it needs to be tied up to the porch railing.

Facing north, the sky is more visible without the tree, but it is not a sunny day.

I am thankful for the rain, even though it meant my sky was not much to look at.

Nice to See Some Blue

2011-04-28T13:30:00.001-05:00

I see I haven't done a post since February 24. I am participating in SkyWatch Friday, which starts when it first turns Friday in some parts of the world. Click on the button in the sidebar to see skies from all over the world.

We've had lots of clouds and rain, but not the severe weather some have had. I've been praying when I hear the reports of the severe weather.

I hope good things come your way this weekend.

What a Difference a Week Makes!

2011-02-24T18:49:00.000-06:00

The sky in last week's SkyWatch post was a beautiful springlike blue. It is still winter, though, and the weather is not letting us forget that. This snow was predicted last night, and I kept looking out of the window at work, as the sky got darker and darker. Finally, around 1:30, the snow started out light, but each time I looked out a window, it was coming down heavier and heavier.

When I got home from work, I took some photos of the sky out the front door. The snowfall was still pretty heavy, but it didn't show up well in the photos.

The news at 5:00 said we'd gotten 3 inches so far, and could get another 2 or 3. To see skies from all over the world, click on the link in the sidebar.

Blue Sky, Maple Tree

2011-02-17T14:30:00.001-06:00

Our weather has been unseasonable warm. It's supposed to get cold again next week, but spring is in the air. I have a bug of some kind, and am about to take a nap, but I had to step out the front door and take a few photos for SkyWatch Friday first.

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday button in the sidebar.

SkyWatch Friday

2011-02-10T15:43:00.000-06:00

Our grandson was sick Saturday, so he didn't come over, like he normally does. Larry and I decided to go to Omaha because we had a coupon that I wanted to use for a Le Creuset pan. I'm pretty sure he took the same route as our daughter-in-law did when we went in January, but the weather was a bit different Saturday, and there was more snow. Here are some of the photos I took for SWF from the window. (BTW, Larry isn't thrilled by my taking bunches of photos when he's driving, but he cleaned my window for me before we left when I asked him to. Isn't that sweet?)

We left about a half an hour later than we did last time. The sunrise is earlier, too, but it was pretty cloudy, so not much sun shown through.

This is the Platte River.

By early afternoon, it started to rain. These are photos I took on the way home. We're thankful it didn't freeze when we were driving.

I rolled my window down and up to see if it would clear up. Instead, it produced this swirling effect. I kind of like it.

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday link in my sidebar.

More Photos Taken from a Vehicle

2011-01-19T13:30:00.001-06:00

Our daughter in law, grandson, and I went to Omaha Saturday, to a model train expo. We had lots of fun, even in the car. Linda was patient with me as I kept saying how beautiful the sky was and taking lots of photos on the road.

On the way:

On the way home:

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday link in the sidebar. Have a great weekend! (I went to schedule this to post at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, but failed to change the date, so it posted this evening, and said that it was posted at 1:30 today. Now I know to be more careful scheduling posts.)

Reading Again

2011-01-13T22:29:00.002-06:00

I decided to get a new subscription to Today's Light instead of using old ones, that I tend to misplace and not follow through on. Well, after a couple days, I lost my new copy. I'm glad I cut out the page that has the chapters for each day on it. I've read Isaiah 13-35 since getting the guide last Sunday. There are a bunch of verses I've marked in these chapters over the years.

The verses I have marked the most, along with a bunch of dates written in the margins, are Isaiah 32:17-18.

"The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever. My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest."

I am thankful that Jesus' righteousness is mine through faith in Him. Even though life isn't always peaceful, His peace is in my heart. I am confident my place in heaven is assured.

Have a blessed 2011!

SkyWatch, Some from Yard, Some from Last Week

2010-12-30T13:25:00.002-06:00

It was very cloudy yesterday, with some drizzling rain, and not warm, as the forecast had predicted. Today, it was supposed to be snowing and cold, but that has been moved to later today. Oh, they are showing a weather map on TV, and it's 36 an hour west of us, and 59 here. We aren't supposed to get much snow in my part of the state, but we could have icy streets. I have been cleaning my house, but now that I know how warm it is, I am heading out. Heidi will be tickled to go out for awhile.

I took these first photos mid morning. The sun has won this battle. The skies are blue right now.

These are more photos from the drive to St. Edward, NE for my husband's aunt's funeral last Thursday. The sky was even darker than this yesterday, and I didn't get any photos taken.

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday link in the sidebar. Have a safe and blessed New Year!

Old and New

2010-12-23T21:46:00.000-06:00

My husband and I drove a couple hours away to attend his aunt's funeral today. The time flew by for me, as I snapped over 500 photos there and back. I told Larry I should know better, but I've had some happy accidents when some of the photos have turned out OK. He said that's good, considering that the best photos are taken using a tripod. LOL

There was a 50% chance of snow today. They thought it would start a little north of our destination. It was so cloudy both ways, that you couldn't even see the clouds, but we only saw a couple minutes of snow trying to fall. To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday link in the side bar.

I was able to get a photo of the farm vehicle in front of us alone, but liked the contrast of the other cars with it, even though the quality of the photo isn't the best.

I have always loved Saint Edward, even though we rarely go there. I remember going there more often about 25 years ago, when our kids were small. The town has a good feel to me. A number of years ago, one of Larry's cousins and I went on a garden tour, and I'm pretty sure this property was one of those we saw. I love the look of the house.

Larry's grandpa, then uncle, and now cousin run this newspaper. She actually does different kinds of printing here, and does the newspaper in a near by town.

On the way home, the sun came out for awhile, enough for some clouds to be visible instead of the straight gray.

I took a bunch of photos of trains because our grandson loves trains right now.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

SkyWatch Friday

2010-12-09T13:32:00.001-06:00

I stayed home from work today, because I haven't been able to shake a headache for a couple days. Also, my PLMD was bad last night because of the caffeine I consumed to help with the headache. I decided to go to my chiropractor for an adjustment this morning, because that usually helps. I'm glad he was there doing paper work, since he was closed, but he told me to come on in. He was glad to take a break from the paperwork.

I took some photos on my way to and from the chiropractor with my iphone, but they didn't turn out very well. I decided to include this one photo facing north from my car. I kind of like the blue background of the sky with the downtown buildings, flag, Christmas decorations, and bare tree.

I went out and took a few photos from the yard to have more for SkyWatch Friday. There are still some leaves on one of these trees. This is facing west around 1:00 p.m. Central Time.

I should take some photography lessons. It looks lighter in the previous photo, but the next one is where the sun is.

A closer view of the above area:

This is facing up, mostly, and north. It's the same tree as the previous one. I wonder if these branches are going to need to be trimmed at some point so they don't damage the house.

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday button in the sidebar.

A Drive in the Country

2010-12-02T14:30:00.001-06:00

November 13, we took our grandson to get a haircut. Afterward, I thought Larry was going to drive in town until KJ fell asleep, but instead, he took us on a drive to a small town that he likes to take with his motorcycle. At first, I was a bit irritated, because I wanted to get home and spend some time outside. Then, the scenery told me to get my iphone out and take some pictures, and that put me in a better mood. Of course, most of the photos were taken with SkyWatch Friday in mind. The car window wasn't real clean, so there are specks in some of the photos. I tried to pick the ones that I like that were cleaner than others.

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday button in the sidebar.

More Photos from Work

2010-11-18T14:30:00.001-06:00

I like to point out how beautiful the sky is to students before and after school, and sometimes during the day, as we're walking past a window. We go to different areas of the building to recycle, and here are a few photos from a different area of the building than last time.

This is facing north. I like all the details of our old building, the blue sky, and the white fluffy clouds.

This is to the north and east. The trees are the same ones in the previous post from work.

Back north, and a little west:

Mostly to the west, you can see some downtown buildings.

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday button in the sidebar.

SkyWatch Friday

2010-11-11T16:35:00.000-06:00

I stood in the street after work Thursday, (Friday in some parts of the world) and took photos of the sky for SkyWatch Friday. Click on the button in the sidebar to see other skies from all over the world.

Facing north:

East:

South:

West:

It got down to 27 this morning, and there was heavy frost on the plants and ground. I'm thinking the reason I saw the frost was because it was light out, due to Daylight Savings Time being over. We've probably had some before, as it has gotten even colder before. I didn't have time to stop and take any photos. I'm pleased that there are still some blooms doing OK.

Have a blessed weekend! I think we're supposed to get some rain along with our cool temps.

Photos Taken from Second and Third Floor Windows at Work

2010-11-04T14:30:00.001-05:00

I took these photos with my iPhone while we were picking up recycling at work today. I'll have to take more out of other windows. To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday button in my sidebar.

Second Floor:

Third floor:

A Clear Blue Sky, and the Morning Glories are Finished

2010-10-28T16:06:00.001-05:00

The temperature got down below freezing last night. Most things look OK, but the morning glories are now ready to be pulled down. I may let the hollyhock flower stalks stay put awhile.

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday link in my sidebar.

Have a blessed weekend!

SkyWatch Photos from the Road and a Lake

2010-10-14T16:04:00.000-05:00

We had a family gathering at a local lake Saturday. Most of the photos I took from the car had reflections of the inside of the vehicle. A few turned out OK.

Sunset photos are rarely as beautiful as witnessing them in person. Such is the case here. I thoroughly enjoyed the sunset at the lake, and the reflections in the water. What I didn't enjoy was all the smoke, and we had to leave shortly after these photos were taken. I was a Campfire Girl, and have always loved campfires, but my lungs hurt to breath smoke and other odors.

Have a great weekend, and click on the link in my sidebar to see more skies from around the world.

Photos Taken from the Gas Station

2010-09-30T14:30:00.001-05:00

A couple weeks ago, when I got gas, I noticed how beautiful the sky was, and got out my cell phone camera to take a few photos for SkyWatch Friday. To see skies from all over the world, click on the link in my sidebar.

The bridge is part of a busy north/south street I use a lot.

Have a great weekend, wherever you live.

Wednesday's Sky Before the Rain

2010-09-01T20:37:00.000-05:00

Heidi and I went out for a yard walk as the clouds were getting darker. There was some thunder and lightning while we were out. There were lots of birds flying around.

I always enjoy taking photos of the sky through flowering plants. This clematis blooms both early and late summer.

I hope this plane made it to where it was going before the rain came. It was a good downpour.

There was still a little blue peeking through in the north.

I took some videos trying to get the sound of the thunder, but when I tried putting one in the post, it failed, with a message that that kind of file can't be put in.

To see skies from all over the world, or find out how to post yours, click on the SkyWatch Friday icon in my sidebar.

Some Photos Taken at Dusk

2010-08-19T21:10:00.000-05:00

After a few days of cooler weather, the heat returned today. I was tired after work, so didn't make it outside until it was almost dark. I remembered it's Friday other places in the world, and SkyWatch Friday has started. I wonder what number my link will be. I'm sure it will be over #100. Click on the link in my sidebar to check it out.

Have a great weekend!

A Hot Day in the Sky

2010-08-12T21:32:00.002-05:00

When I went out to get herbs for supper, I was stunned at how hot it was. Normally, I'm not bothered by the heat until I've been out in it awhile. I noticed that it was 100 degrees. After we ate, I remembered I wanted to take a picture of the outdoor thermometor, and by then, it had cooled by a couple degrees. I remembered I was late for SkyWatch Friday, so tipped the camera up to include the sky.

I went out into the yard to get photos of the morning glories climbing up the light pole. They are really up there!

While I was out in the yard, I heard a plane, and immediately looked to see where it was.

I zoomed in, but did crop this a little so the little bit of tree wouldn't be in the photo.

Why are you flying so low, airplane? Is it hot up there?

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch link in the sidebar.

Sky Photos from a Family Gathering

2010-08-05T13:25:00.001-05:00

One of my husband's cousins and her two almost grown kids came to Nebraska this week, and Tuesday evening, we went to a small town an hour away, to a race track for a family gathering, because her brother is a sponsor and huge fan of race cars. I wasn't thrilled about going, because I was afraid the vibrations would cause my jaw to hurt. I didn't take my camera, because I didn't want the extra weight, which could have also caused my jaw to hurt. I knew we were going to be in a private inside area, but what didn't occur to me, was how high it was going to be.

We had the most spectacular view of the sky, and got to see the clouds gather, and then witness a lightning show after dark, that far surpassed any fireworks display. At the beginning of the evening, I did get some photos with my iphone. I also took a few with a sister-in-law's camera, but didn't ask her for it during the lightning show. I haven't seen those photos yet.

It turned out to be a fun evening. We got to visit with relatives we haven't seen for awhile, and I even watched some of the racing, not knowing anything about it. I told Larry's cousin, the one who is into racing and lives in Nebraska, that I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. He said it's an acquired taste, to which I replied, "Well, I haven't acquired it yet." LOL

So, here are a few photos of the sky, and what we saw below.

I still wish I'd have taken my camera, but am thankful for the little one on my iphone. To see skies from all over the world, or find out how to participate, click on the SkyWatch picture in my sidebar. I hope to visit more blogs this week. I also have been limiting my computer time, and am trying to use better posture while on, due to the TMJD.

Thursday Morning Sky Photos

2010-07-29T13:26:00.002-05:00

It was cloudy when I first went out with my camera this morning, but as time went by, the sun came out, and the clouds turned white and fluffy. I took lots of photos of some of my favorite subjects against the sky for SkyWatch Friday. To see skies from all over the world, or find out how to post yours, click on the link in my sidebar.

The middle flower buds are rough goldenrod. Baptisia and false sunflowers are on the other side of the fence.

This light pole is not so pretty, and it doesn't even work, but it stays up, because my father-in-law put it up, and it reminds us of him. The morning glories are on their march to the top.

There are all kinds of obstacles to a clear view from my yard. The birds sure love to perch on the wires.

If I look straight up, I can see unobstructed clouds.

The tree across the street, on the right, is almost finished blooming.

I went out later in the morning to take closer photos so the blooms would show, but they are still hard to see.

I used my zoom to get a better view of something pretty in the sky.

While out, I thought this hibiscus looked nice with the sky in the background.

This posts at 1:30 my time, and somewhere in the world, it's Friday. Have a great weekend!

Verses I've Marked

2010-07-28T22:28:00.000-05:00

I read Matthew 14 today. There were several passages I'd marked in the past, but didn't date. I have always identified with the actions and heart of Peter. In the passage I'd marked, Jesus had sent his disciples ahead of him in a boat while he went to pray. He walked on the water to meet up with them, and the disciples were afraid he was a ghost when they saw him. He told them to take courage, that it was he, and they shouldn't be afraid. Verses 28-33 say:

"Lord, is its you", Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water." "Come," he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately, Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "Why did you doubt?" And when they climbed into the boat the wind died down. Then, those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the son of God."

In my daily living, I have stress from time to time. Cleaning the clutter out of a room was very stressful for me this summer. I am now experiencing pain in my jaw, due to the grinding of my jaw in the night. I am realizing I've also done it during the day. It's looking like I have TMJ. I am praying for healing. I am also praying that I keep up this wonderful Bible reading I've started.

When I first became a Christian, I was like Peter, ready to jump right in to whatever I felt God would have for me to do. I am thankful that God is who He is, and even when I'm not living through faith, He'll reach down and pull me back up when I ask Him to.

Lord, please help me keep my focus on you, and your love for me. Help me to show that love to others, as you desire. Help me to remember to have a heart of worship toward you.

Something Different

2010-07-25T15:58:00.000-05:00

I've mentioned how into the Word I was the first few years of becoming a Christian July of 1994. Here is a link to my testimony. I thought about editing it, but decided not to. I am still inconsistent in my Bible reading, yet I pray every day, multiple times a day, keeping my connection to God. I need to be nourishing my soul more. I have been in the process of reading Matthew over the last few months. I just finished chapter 12. I intend with the help of prayer, to be more consistent.

I had the idea to post something I got from the Bible reading I do as often as I can. Then, as I was reading, and wondering what to post about, I had the idea to share what verses I had marked the most over the years. Usually, I write the date when I underline, circle, or star verses, assuming I'll remember why I marked them. I'll see if I really do remember.

In 1988, I was attending our university. A man and his family were on campus, yelling at people that they were bad, and were going to hell. I stopped and talked to the wife, telling her something like, I was a Christian, and how could they know anyone's heart? I don't remember the conversation, but it was short. They also interrupted a church picnic, but I didn't interact with them at that time, but he was mean! I underlined Jesus' words in Matthew 12:7-8, and wrote the words, "shouting 'preacher' needs this."

"If you had known what these words mean, 'I desire mercy not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the innocent. For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath."

This was when Jesus was telling the Pharisees it was lawful to do good on the Sabbath. I don't remember what all the "preacher" on campus was saying, but he was pretty much preaching law. So, I think this would apply in this situation. Oh, and I did say something to someone at the university, and was told they are there once a year. I wonder what has become of them.

I am thankful my sins are forgiven, and that there isn't a way to earn favor with God. I was just telling my story to a friend from church, and said that while I did have a born again experience, I would rather have had that faith as a child and young adult, like many do. Come to find out, he had had one, too.

Thank you God, for reaching me with the gift of faith 26 years ago. I pray for others to receive it, as well.

I wanted to add a photo, because I am so used to putting photos in posts. I am also thankful for having a yard to garden in.

SkyWatch Friday

2010-07-22T13:22:00.000-05:00

I started out thinking I'd just find one or two sky photos for today's SkyWatch Friday post, but then couldn't decide, so I included more than 2.

We've had lots of rain this month, and lots of different kinds of clouds. These photos are all from Tuesday, the 20th.

The skies always look better in person than photos I take. I loved these puffy clouds that looked like a whole bunch of cotton balls.

Even with all the rain, we've had some pretty blue with the clouds.

I've mentioned this light pole was put up by my father-in-law when he was still alive, and lived here.

The morning glories are on their way up.

I adjusted the next photo so the sunflower plant on the right could be seen more clearly. I love the weather vane on the garage my mother-in-law bought. (The house is on the left, the vegetable garden on the right.)

This is the same sunflower plant that's in the previous photo.

I hope you have a great weekend, and are able to visit some skies from around the world. The link is in my sidebar.

SkyWatch Friday

2010-07-08T21:41:00.000-05:00

We've had lots of pretty clouds in the sky. I've not been out as much as I like, because I'm trying to get rid of the clutter in a room in our house. I have been able to take a few photos of the sky.

The first photo was taken July 4th at our son's and daughter-in-law's house.

These 2 were taken the same day, some time after the 4th.

To see skies from all over the world, or to see how to post yours, click on the SkyWatch link in the sidebar. Thanks SWF team!

Skies from Father's Day

2010-06-24T13:03:00.002-05:00

In my Corner Garden blog, I posted some photos of the garden tour where people garden with wildlife in mind. I want to post some photos from the tour that include the sky. I had gotten a late start due to a thunderstorm. It continued to rain off and on throughout the day. It felt like the clouds and sun were having a bit of a battle.

This is how the skies looked a couple hours before I left.

These photos were taken from an acreage on the edge of our city.

As I was driving to my parents, another thunderstorm with huge lightening arrived in the area. To see skies from all over the world, or find out how to post yours, click on the SkyWatch button in the sidebar.

SkyWatch

2010-06-17T11:38:00.000-05:00

I remembered to take some photos for SkyWatch Friday this morning, while the sun was in the east. I'm in garden mode these days, so included flowers in the pics.

The clematis, 'Purpurea Plena Elegans' is one of my favorite blooms right now.

The tall plant right next to the fence is rattlesnake master. It prefers more sun and a dryer soil than what it gets, but has done fine the 2 years it's been there. The purple next to it is a delphinium, and yarrow is in the background. Oh, and the sky is nice and blue to the south.

There were some nice fluffy clouds to the north, peering through the yarrow and a neighboring tree.

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday button in the sidebar. Have a great weekend!

Night Sky for SWF

2010-06-03T22:37:00.000-05:00

I couldn't remember if I had any photos on my camera, and remembered I hadn't posted for SkyWatch Friday, so I went out in the dark and took some photos, using my night setting. One is passable for SWF. Click on the button to see skies from all over the world, or find out how to post yours.

It's really spring, in case we weren't sure yet. I'm so excited to see all the changes in the plants and flowers as the season progresses. I thank God for the interests He's given me.

SkyWatch

2010-05-20T21:58:00.000-05:00

I forgot to take photos for SkyWatch Friday, but found a couple photos from the past week that show some sky. Here is a photo showing where I garden across the street, and the lovely trees high in the sky, that sometimes shade it. It's been cloudy and rainy this week.

This is our house, taken from the garden across the street. It looks like some blue sky is peaking through.

Click on the SkyWatch tab in the sidebar to see skies from all over the world or to find out how to include your sky.

Expecting Rain for SkyWatch Friday

2010-05-06T21:19:00.000-05:00

To see skies from all over the world, or to find out how to post yours, click on the link in my sidebar.

All Dressed up for SkyWatch Friday

2010-04-29T19:48:00.001-05:00

Last week, the leaves were showing on the trees. This week, they look like they are ready for the party called spring, or even getting ready for summer.

After taking some photos of blooms for my garden blog, a few hours before sunset, I took some photos of our yard from across the street. The first one is facing west. That's our house, shed, and garage in the photo.

This is south from the previous photo, facing southwest. I've mentioned the maple tree in front of the house grew from a "helicopter" seed from another tree, and was moved to this location by my husband when he was a boy, and his dad. The neighbors aren't so thrilled by all the helicopters that come flying into their yards in the spring.

This is facing south.

This is facing west, standing in the middle of the street in front of the house.

I turned around, to take a photo to the east. I deleted the one I took facing north, showing a clear blue sky. I imagine it's getting cloudier now, because it's supposed to rain. We are in a tornado watch this evening.

After writing the above, I went out and took a photo of what the north sky looks like now. It is starting to rain, too.

Well, it's been Friday a few hours in some places. I better get this up. To see more skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch button in the sidebar. Have a great weekend!

A Calm, Cloudy Spring Morning

2010-04-22T07:04:00.001-05:00

Hi, I've been forgetting to post for SkyWatch Friday. When I looked out the door this morning, the sky reminded me to get my camera and post. Click on the button in the sidebar to see skies from all over the world, or find out how to post yours.

Anticipation

2010-04-03T07:26:00.000-05:00

I have been mulling over this post while doing my daily activities, and now, since Easter is tomorrow, I thought I'd sit down and let the thoughts out. We had our kitchen remodeled a few weeks ago. Our winter was long and cold, so, I couldn't decide which I was more excited about, the small kitchen becoming more functional, or the arrival of spring. During these times I was also remembering that the thing I am most looking forward to is heaven.

I've mentioned that one of my favorite hymn verses is from Amazing Grace, where it says, "When we've been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun, we've no less days to sing God's praise, than when we've first begun." I sometimes forget to sing his praise, but the idea that I'm heaven bound gives me a song in my heart and the greatest thing to anticipate.

I am feeling blessed to have a nicer kitchen, and to be out gardening again. I am thankful for God's love for me, and presence in my life. I am thankful I don't have to earn his love. He is always ready to forgive me when I need it, and he keeps me from falling down too hard.

I want to include some photos of the kitchen and some blooms. May your Easter be blessed, and remember to look forward to heaven.

Before:

After:

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After:

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After:

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After:

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Before:

After:

And now, for some flowers:

Hellebores:

Pasque Flowers:

I'm anticipating more blooms to follow the daffodils:

Happy Easter!

SkyWatch Friday 3/12/10

2010-03-12T06:58:00.000-06:00

It snowed and rained off and on yesterday. I complained about the snow to a parent, who I didn't know, as he was walking down the hall. He said, "Oh, it will melt. It will be good for the grass." I told him he had a good attitude. That helped me feel better. I knew already that it wasn't supposed to be cold enough for a lot of accumulation, but the taste of 57 degrees on Saturday left me wanting more. Well, it will come, and whining will do no good. I'll try to remember that dad's good attitude.

So, here's what I saw yesterday morning before work. To see more skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday link in my sidebar.

A Nice Verse to Read Before Bed

2010-03-09T22:11:00.001-06:00

This will be the second evening in a row that I am reading some Bible before going to bed. I've mentioned how I was so into the Word when I was a new Christian, but over the years, have not set aside that time each day. Today, I didn't allow as much, but God is so good, and gave me some good verses to meditate on as I wait to go to sleep. One is Psalm 4:8:

"I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone,

O LORD, make me dwell in safety."

That is my prayer for anyone reading this, too.

A 42 Degree Mid Morning Sky

2010-03-04T11:45:00.001-06:00

I've missed some SkyWatch Fridays. I am home from work today, and in the process of clearing the kitchen for the remodel that is to take place in 2 weeks. I went out a little bit ago and took some photos of the sky. I knew the sun was in some of the photos, and that the sun does not lend itself to good photos, but I included one, because the rays form a star. I kind of like that.

To see skies from all over the world, or find out how to be included, click on the SkyWatch button in the sidebar. (SkyWatch starts Thursday, at 1:30 p.m. where I live, because somewhere in the world, Friday has arrived.)

I hope you have a joyful weekend.

Sky Photos Taken in the Dark

2010-01-21T19:29:00.000-06:00

I just found my missing cardreader a little while ago, stuck my camera out of the front door, and looked at the viewfinder through the door to take some photos using the "dark" setting on my camera. The photos still turned out dark, so I messed around with the adjustments in the edit section of iphoto. Each one has a little different look. None are quality work, but it was fun to mess with. This is my first time posting using the new posting format. I see there is no space between the photos. I'm not going to like it if I can't write between the photos. I'll have to experiment.

As it is, I am now busy getting things ready to hire someone to remodel our kitchen to make the space more functional. I posted about it in my Corner Garden blog.

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday button in the sidebar.

SkyWatch Friday from my Front Porch

2010-01-14T17:33:00.003-06:00

I've been so very busy helping our daughter move and helping clean her old place, I am worn out! I haven't been able to be on the computer very much. After work today, where it's Friday in some places of the world, I went out and took some photos of the sky from my porch. I wanted to include the snow, which is now melting in the afternoons, as our temps have gotten above freezing. At night, parts of the streets and sidewalks are getting icy. The sky was a pretty blue today, with a few wispy clouds. To see more skies from all over the world, or find out how to include yours, click on the SkyWatch button in my sidebar.

Cold Morning Sky

2010-01-08T08:37:00.003-06:00

It is currently -7 F. here. I just stuck the camera out the door to take some photos for SkyWatch Friday. Click on the SWF icon in the sidebar to see more skies from all over the world. The news is saying that much of the country is unseasonably cold. I hope wherever you are, you are keeping warm.

Moon Before the Blue Moon?

2009-12-31T14:30:00.000-06:00

I read a comment on either my or someone else's blog that mentioned we are going to have a blue moon soon. I wasn't sure what that meant, but last night, there was a lovely blue around the moon, that didn't show up well in photos. I enjoyed getting shots of the moon, though. Today, I did a search to find out what a blue moon is, and came away a tad confused, because different places say different things about it. It used to mean the 3rd full moon when there were 4 in a season, or something like that. Then, someone wrote in a Farmers' Almanac many years ago, that a blue moon is when there are 2 full moons in the same month. I just did another search and found an article on the NASA website where it is explained in a better way than I did.

So, tonight, look up and see the full moon, and no, it will not be blue, but it will be a blue moon! To see skies from all over the world, or to find out how to link yours, click on the SkyWatch link in my sidebar.

God bless your New Year, and have a fun, safe, and healthy celebration to welcome in 2010!

Grandson's First Doll video

2009-12-26T11:53:00.004-06:00

Snowed in for Skywatch Friday

2009-12-25T14:55:00.003-06:00

Since the forecast for a blizzard kept getting pushed back, and we were able to drive last night, I got up this morning, and after looking out the door, figured it would be OK to drive today. I got my exercise shoes and music on, and did aerobic cooking and kitchen cleaning. I assumed my husband was listening to the radio for driving conditions. After I got my gluten free pumpkin pies out of the oven, and the fruit cobbler in, Larry came in from shoveling and told me the neighbor said the main streets are OK, but the side streets and intersections are so bad, only 4 wheel drive cars could make it around. I spent an hour on the phone talking to my family, and we postponed our Christmas lunch. Larry and I enjoyed the chili, and I had made enough pie, that we were able to have some today.

I took some photos from inside the house, some out windows, and some out of doors. I had fun watching the poor birds come and go. There was a squirrel on a branch under its home. I wondered why it was there, and not inside.

Well, it's Friday in parts of the world, and SkyWatch Friday has begun. Click on the link in my sidebar to see skies from all over the world or find out how to include yours.

Again, Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T14:12:00.003-06:00

I love the saying that is currently on our sign at church that says,

"Jesus is the gift; we are the reason."

God bless you and yours this Christmas, and may you be filled with the joy of the Lord.

Late for the Sky...

2009-12-18T06:56:00.005-06:00

It's Friday morning where I am, but Friday started other places about 17 hours ago. The title of my post is from an old Jackson Browne album that I loved when I was in my 20s. Even though my memory is bad, I can recall some of the lyrics of the songs on it. Most of them were sad and depressing. That was a time in my life where I had fallen away from God and was not a happy time of my life. One of the songs was about taking a photo of someone. When the picture taker saw the person, they were laughing, but the moment the camera happened to find them, there was a look of sorrow in their eyes. I think it was called Fountain of Sorrow.

Well, I'm thankful those days are behind me, and I have the joy of faith in Jesus, even when I'm feeling sad. God's love for us isn't changed by how we feel at any moment.

I am laughing at myself, because I need to get to work, and just planned on putting up a quick sky photo from the other day. I had missed photographing a gorgeous sunrise, then was tickled when the sunset was almost as pretty. Happy SWF, and check out the link in my sidebar to see more skies from all over the world.

Snow, and a Blue Sky

2009-12-10T18:17:00.005-06:00

This is what the sky looked like December 8:

This is what it looked like today:

Don't be fooled by the lovely blue sky. I don't remember how warm it got today, but our low was -13 F. They said it was the coldest since a day in January of 2007, when it got down to -15.

To see more skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday picture in my sidebar.

Photos Taken 11/28/09 for SkyWatch Friday

2009-12-03T13:30:00.002-06:00

The tree in front of our house reaches quite tall into the sky. It was planted by my husband when he was a young boy, and his dad after they dug it from a neighbor's yard.

I love white fluffy clouds against a blue sky.

Whenever I hear or see something in the sky, I want to take a photo of it. I was tickled when I put these photos into my iphoto, and saw the star on this helicopter.

I took lots of photos of squirrels eating seed pods high in this tree across the street. I even took a video that I plan to post on my other blog Saturday for Camera Critters. This squirrel is high in the sky, so I wanted to include it in my SkyWatch Friday post.

To see skies from all over the world, or find out how to link yours, click on the SkyWatch Friday button in the sidebar.

Happy Thanksgiving SkyWatch

2009-11-26T10:40:00.000-06:00

I went out Wednesday after work to take photos of the big clouds in the sky, and flowers for my garden blog. It was in the 40s, and I had a good time being outside, as I haven't been able to be out much lately. I was out long enough to get some photos of the sunset. I saw the Schwann's man at my next door neighbor's door, and asked him if he'd noticed how pretty the sky was. He looked up, and told me, yes it is. When my husband got home from work and a couple errands, I asked him if he'd noticed, and he said he hadn't. I tell you, SkyWatch Friday helps one be more aware of what's going on in the sky, and I sure enjoy that! Click on the SWF button in the sidebar to see skies from all over the world, or find out how to include your post.

The moon is in the upper right of this photo.

Here's a closer view of the moon.

Photos don't do what I viewed today justice.

I walked to the busy street we live a block from, and tried to get a clearer view of the sky, but the street lights and lines insisted on being in the photos. The trees on the left are in the cemetery on that side of the street.

I am thankful most for the gift of faith in Jesus. I am thankful for God's work in my life, and the beauty of creation.

One of the gifts God has given me is the ability to forgive people. Sometimes it has taken longer than others though. As I get older, I find it easier, besides, it's what God has told us to do. I'm glad, but it has caused me to be impatient with others who hold grudges. Our church just served a meal at a local outreach center, which my group does 4 times a year. When I lead the prayer before the meal, I pray for God to help people to forgive those who need it in their lives.

If you read this, consider this prayer for you, too. Remember, forgiveness never means that we're saying the hurt someone has caused is OK. It may not even mean reconciliation in an unhealthy relationship. It frees the hurt one to move on and not dwell on the past or person who hurt them.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Late Afternoon Sky from 11/14 /09

2009-11-19T18:21:00.003-06:00

My husband and I have our almost 2 year old grandson on Saturdays. My parents want to see him every week, too, and lately they have had some lifting restrictions, so I've been taking Grandson there, and going into the computer room and blogging. On our way back to my house, I noticed how lovely the sky was. I was glad for the stop lights, so I could take a few photos with my iphone.

To see skies from all over the world, or to find out how to include yours, click on the SkyWatch Friday button in the sidebar.

Suppertime Sunset taken Wednesday for SkyWatch Friday

2009-11-12T14:30:00.000-06:00

To see skies from all over the world, or find out how to participate, click on the link in the sidebar.

Blue Skies, Fluffy Clouds

2009-11-05T18:18:00.006-06:00

The first several photos start looking up, then go a bit lower each time, showing the bare branches and split trunk of the walnut tree in front of the area where I garden at the neighbors' yard across the street. To see more skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch button in the sidebar.

I think this one is looking south and east from the intersection in the street.

The sunset was a nice one, too.

Looking south from our front porch:

God bless your weekend!

Some Thoughts on God's Will

2009-11-01T02:12:00.005-06:00

I was sleeping well, but in the night, started thinking about which church service I wanted to go to in the morning. Somehow my thoughts went to wondering if God really wanted me going back to the church I had left in January, and have now been going back to since August. I'm having trouble now remembering exactly what I was thinking, but it was not worry.

The reason I got up to write is so I would remember the chain of thoughts, and then go back to sleep not trying to remember. I'm not remembering now, though, but the one of the main things I got out of this is that in my experience, even when I pray for God to reveal his will to me for my life, I'm not always given clear direction. I think that whatever I do, mistakes, sins, and all, God uses it for good. (Hey, there's a Bible verse for that!)

The other thing, is that God's will for me is to love him first, and then love others. In my daily interactions with people, He wants me to love others with his love. That means turning off the crabbiness and turning on care and respect. Sometimes it also means setting boundaries. I can enjoy my gardening, spending time with family, and blogging. God provides other areas of service, such as cooking meals 4 times a year at our local outreach center for low income people. These last few sentences were added by me as I was writing, and were not part of the thinking. The thought was that whatever I do, God blesses it as I go. He doesn't direct me like I'm a puppet. I have choices, and God uses those choices to work in my life.

I don't think God cares so much which church I go to as long as it is one that believes in grace alone, through faith alone for salvation. I am so thankful I don't have to earn salvation! Figuring out how to love God first is sometimes hard, but it's such a blessing to experience his love for me.

Well, I better get back to sleep so I can go to the early service. ,o) I hope you are having peaceful rest. (The photo of my grandson and me was taken Saturday.)

A Rainy SkyWatch

2009-10-29T15:37:00.002-05:00

I looked through my photos, and didn't find any I wanted to post, so I went out in the rain and took some photos. I thought the leaves in the sky were pretty.

I included this one because there was a bird flying through the rain. The light that my father-in-law put in the back yard doesn't work anymore. When we first moved here, the neighbors were hoping we'd keep in on at night because the street can be dark. The morning glories love climbing up the pole each summer. These are dead, and need to be pulled down.

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch button in the sidebar. God bless your weekend!

SkyWatch Friday

2009-10-23T22:26:00.003-05:00

Since SkyWatch Friday starts where it first turns Friday in the world, this post is late, because it is now Saturday afternoon in some places. To see more of the world's skies, click on the SkyWatch link in the sidebar.

This photo was taken after work today. We got about 3 inches of rain the last few days, and today the sun came out. There were lots of birds out and about today, and I enjoyed all the noise they were making. There's no mistaking it's fall.

Have a blessed weekend!

Late for SkyWatch Friday

2009-10-17T20:39:00.002-05:00

I had lots going on the last few days, and today, when I got some photos off my iphone, into my iphoto, I saw I had some photos from the last week of September that I'd like to post. God's artistry is so evident in the sky. I am in awe of the beauty of creation. These photos were taken from the parking lot when I got to work in that morning.

To see more skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch button on my sidebar.

A Cloudy Day SkyWatch

2009-10-08T22:25:00.004-05:00

When I went out to take bloom and sky photos this afternoon, Thursday here, Friday some places, I heard lots of birds. I got a few of them in this photo. I plan on using the other photos in my Saturday Camera Critters post on my other blog. The trees will shortly be losing their leaves with colder temperatures expected. Freezing temperatures are forecasted for this weekend, with the possibility of snow.

To see skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch button in my sidebar. Speaking of which, I took my computer to a family gathering, and our niece, who is in kindergarten and I enjoyed clicking on blogs from the list, and seeing the skies and other things that were in those countries. We left some comments, too. What fun that was!

Have a blessed weekend!

Cosmos Finally Blooming, SkyWatch Friday

2009-10-01T13:30:00.000-05:00

To see more skies from all over the world, click on the SkyWatch Friday picture in the sidebar.

Tree Planting for SkyWatch Friday

2009-09-24T13:30:00.000-05:00

I got my phone camera out to catch the skies and tree planting at the high school I work at a couple days ago. A lot of trees were cut down the end of February, 2008, when I was home with the flu. Most students and a lot of the staff didn't realize how many trees they were taking out, and why most of them needed to come out. We were told some of them would be replaced by other trees. I'm glad they planted fairly good sized ones. Now, we need some grass so we won't go home and track mud in the house like I did this day.

To see skies from all over the world or find out how to include yours, please click on the SkyWatch button in the sidebar.

SKyWatch Friday 9/18/09

2009-09-17T13:25:00.000-05:00

These almost identical photos were taken of our Wednesday's sunrise, which was early evening somewhere in the world, where it will turn midnight Friday, my time today, (Thursday) at 1:30 in the afternoon. At least that's when SkyWatch Friday starts our time.

As I was driving to work, I looked up, and saw the spectacular sunrise, and dug my cell phone out. When I stopped at a light, I was able to take this photo across the street from the high school I work at, where a fast food restaurant is being built.

I took some more photos from the parking lot. I hope the people in these cars looked up at the beauty of God's creation.

Have a great weekend!

A Calm, Cloudy Day

2009-09-10T13:32:00.000-05:00

These photos were taken Wednesday afternoon, while somewhere in the world, people were beginning their Thursday morning. We had a little rain this morning, and the clouds have stuck around, but there is very little wind.

To see skies from all over the world, or find out how to include yours, please click on the SkyWatch Icon in my sidebar.

A Cloudy Morning for SkyWatch 9/4/09

2009-09-03T13:30:00.000-05:00

SkyWatch Friday 8/28/09

2009-08-27T22:45:00.003-05:00

My father-in-law put this tall light in when he was alive, and the morning glories love it, even though it doesn't work these days. This was taken a few days ago, and either it was cloudy or almost dark out.

I will be glad when the street work is done. I happened to be taking photos when someone drove by, and I caught the dust in the air stirred up by the car. When people drive fast, the dust is worse than this.

To see skies from all over the world, or find out how to include yours, go the SkyWatch blog.

SkyWatch Friday 8/20/09

2009-08-20T21:45:00.002-05:00

The sky has been spectacularly beautiful lately, but I don't seem to have my camera with me, and when I do, I'm not satisfied with the photos I take. I want to have a post for SWF, since I forgot to put my last one in this blog. This one was taken of the top of our garage and the sky above it either Tuesday or Wednesday.

To see skies from all over the world, or find out how to include yours, click on the SkyWatch icon in my sidebar. (It's already Friday somewhere in the world, so the meme has started!)

God bless your weekend!

SkyWatch Friday 8/7/09

2009-08-06T13:30:00.001-05:00

This is the sunrise from a few days ago. I mentioned on my other blog that I learned that if you hold down the "control" and "+" keys, what you are viewing will get larger. Each time you click on the plus key it will get even larger.

SkyWatch starts the first place in the world where Friday starts, which is Thursday afternoon where I live. To see lots of sky photos, or find out how to show yours, go to the SkyWatch blog.

Today's Devotion

2009-08-03T21:46:00.003-05:00

In July, 25 years ago, I became a Christian. I was always God's child, but did not believe He existed. I've mentioned that I devoured the Word for a number of years, and couldn't understand why more people weren't in Bible study. I even wrote some articles for the church's newsletter encouraging people to read their Bibles and/or come to Bible study. One of the articles, that I never submitted talked about when runners are getting their miles in, they feel so good and fit. When they don't run, they miss it, and when they start missing a lot, they lose some fitness. I compared that to being in the Word, and then neglecting it. Maybe I'll find it and post it in full.

Anyway, I've also mentioned that I go through spells where I am not in the Word. I still have my faith, and pray daily, and even intend to read my Bible, but I want to garden, blog, and maybe do some cleaning, and then I end up staying up too late, and say I'm going to try for tomorrow.

I've gotten some reading done the last few days, and am determined to keep it up. I found a Daily Walk from Walk Thru the Bible from August of 2004, and some others from other years that are from the New Testament, but when I sat down to read, I could only find the one that is in Jeremiah. I finished up day 2 of it today, which was chapters 7-10. It was emotional and a bit uncomfortable for me reading how upset God was with Judah's idolatry.

Then, I read in the study guide, "Make a list of some things you have reason to take pride in. Which item on your list gives you the greatest satisfaction? Do you know there is something God wants you to glory in? To 'pop' your buttons in pride over? To derive an 'ego boost' from every time you think about it? It isn't your bank account, your muscles, or your mind. It's your relationship with Him." (Daily Walk, August 2004)

I don't think pride is the word I would use. Maybe I'd replace it with "pleasure" or "satisfaction". I believe the interests I have are how God made me. He wants us to enjoy life, but He wants us to love Him first. I imagine I'm not the only one who fails in this area at times. I am so thankful for God's love and forgiveness. I've said that before, too. So, it's fine for me to spend lots of time gardening and blogging, if I'm not neglecting God in the process. I am so thankful it was easy for me to read several chapters and not think about the time.

My salvation is sure, but I want to know God here and now. Isaiah 55 talks about God's thoughts and ways being higher than ours, and that His Word accomplishes what he desires, which is that we will go out in joy, and be led forth in peace.

Peace!

SkyWatch Friday 7/31/09

2009-07-31T02:31:00.006-05:00

I have been neglecting this blog. I'm thinking about moving some of the memes I participate in to here. I already posted one on A Corner Garden, but decided to do one here this week, too, and next week will probably just do one here.

This is my back yard viewed from the side. The photos were taken a couple days ago.

Looking up:

To see skies from all over the world, or to find out how to include your skies, check out the SkyWatch Friday blog.

ABCs of the Word, "S"

2009-06-18T22:03:00.003-05:00

Pam, at Grey Like Snuffie hosts this Thursday event. Read her post and see how to find others and/or how to link yours to it.

"From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised."

Psalm 113:3

ABCs of the Word, "R"

2009-06-10T23:15:00.005-05:00

"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

Psalm 118:24

Visit Grey Like Snuffie, Pam's blog for more ABCs or to link your post to it.

ABCs of the Word, "P"

2009-05-28T01:00:00.000-05:00

I am thankful to be part of Pam's, at Grey Like Snuffie ABCs of the Word on Thursdays. Check out her blog, read her post, and see how to find more and/or participate.

(My new bed from last year, in September.)

"A man's ways are in full view of the LORD, and he examines all his paths."

Proverbs 6:21

"Shout with joy to God, all the earth! Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious!"

Psalm 66:1

This is my 100th post on this blog. I have been neglecting it and the Christian friendships that were being formed. I still think of you and pray from time to time. I am hoping to be more active soon.

I have joined another church, and the official welcoming day is this Sunday. I am feeling sadness at this point, kind of a grieving for the loss of my other church. A few people have called me to let me know they miss me and would like me back, but they are not the people who were refusing to forgive others. I really feel God is leading me in this direction. I just need to process it now, and go through some adjusting.

Praise God, because he always provides ways for us to draw closer to him. Our salvation is already in place through faith, and does not depend on how we are feeling from moment to moment.

God bless whoever reads this!

ABCs of the Word, "O"

2009-05-21T00:01:00.001-05:00

How did we get to "O" already? Pam, at Grey Like Snuffie, is on what I think is her second round of the alphabet. Check out her blog, find other entries, and see about joining in.

"Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law."

Romans 12:8

ABCs of the Word, "N"

2009-05-14T00:00:00.001-05:00

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again. Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things."

Philippians 4:4-8

This is part of a letter Paul wrote to the people in Philippi. Our circumstances, like his, most likely in house arrest, do not have to dampen our worship of or relationship with God. We let them too often, but I am so thankful God continues to woo me back into more intimacy with him. He truly is near!

Go to Pam's blog, Grey Like Snuffie, to find more posts or to find out how to post yours.

The clip art was free for posting a link to the site it came from, ChristArt.

ABCs of the Word, "M"

2009-05-07T21:48:00.004-05:00

Pam, at Grey Like Snuffie is on "M" this week. Go read her entry, and see who else is participating, and join in, if you'd like to!

I've chosen Titus 3:3-6:

"At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out generously through Jesus Christ our Savior,..."

I started to just do through verse 5, but liked how the sentence continued to verse 6, then saw that verse 7 is part of the same sentence. Hey, it's all good, but I decided to stop here.

ABCs of the Word, "L"

2009-04-30T00:00:00.000-05:00

"I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge- that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God."

Ephesians 3:16-19 (The prayer starts with verse 13 and ends with verse 21.)

I think Pam, at Grey Like Snuffie, where you'll find more ABCs, or can participate, has this passage in her sidebar or somewhere. I don't think we'll totally understand God's love until heaven, but we do get filled and have a grasp of it from time to time. God brings changes in our lives that change us to be more like him, and to draw us closer to Him. I am so thankful for God's love for me!

ABCs of the Word, "K"

2009-04-23T00:00:00.000-05:00

I missed several memes last week, including Pam's, at Grey Like Snuffie. Go there to see more verses that have the letter of the week, or to add yours.

"Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else."

1 Thessalonians 5:15

Easter Greetings

2009-04-11T21:30:00.007-05:00

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

I've mentioned before that God works with me on themes. Recently, it's been receiving strength like an eagle from God. Joining that has been love. My new church that I am in the process of transferring to has a class I joined that is studying the epistles of John. I have been reading 1 John at home, too. Whatever happens in life, God wants our actions to be based on our love for Him, and for others.

I get so full, and feel ready to go out there and love the people God has in my life. Yet, I find myself asking God and others for forgiveness for an unkind comment or action I have inflicted on them. Still, after receiving that forgiveness I am feeling stronger, and it feels like an adventure and not a burden to keep love in mind as I go about my day.

God tells us throughout His Word how to love. May we all keep these verses in mind as we spend time with our families this Easter weekend. There may be some we have had disagreements with, or who may have offended or hurt us in some way. My prayer for us is that we are able to bear with one another, and practice forgiveness and love, and ask for forgiveness where we've hurt someone else. Let us draw others to God.

Have a blessed Easter. Jesus is risen, risen indeed!

ABCs of the Word, "I"

2009-04-09T18:00:00.003-05:00

"Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."

Philippians 2:4

I like how God does not tell us to only do things for others. If that was the expectation, it would be hard to know how much sleep to get or food to eat, and we'd go around feeling guilty all the time. From what I've been reading in the Bible, I feel that what God wants is for us to treat others with Christian love, and not be totally self serving. It's good to find ways to serve him through helping others as He leads us.

For more WFW posts or to add yours, go to Pam's blog, Grey Like Snuffie.

Have a blessed Easter!

ABCs of the Word, "H"

2009-04-02T18:45:00.006-05:00

"We accept man's testimony, but God's testimony is greater because it is the testimony of God, which he has given about his Son. Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son. And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life."

1 John:5:9-12

What I love about this passage is all the "has"and "haves". God has already done what needs to be done for us, and we have right now what we need for eternal life. We have Jesus. Praise Him! Like I've mentioned before, one of my favorite verses of a hymn, is from Amazing Grace. It's:

"When we've been there 10,000 years, bright shining as the sun, we've no less days to sing his praise, than when we've first begun."

Lately, I have heard several people who say they are Christian say that there are other world religions that also lead to God. I even heard someone refer to someone who is not a Christian as being "religious" and a good person. I'm sorry, but being religious or a good person is not what makes anyone right with God. Don't be mad at me, like one of the people did though. I didn't create the world, and I did not write the Bible. If you want to find God, you will find him through faith that Jesus took your place on the cross and died for your sins.

For more ABC's of the Word, go to Pam's Grey Like Snuffie blog.

Word-Filled Wednesday 4/1/09

2009-04-01T20:00:00.009-05:00

"He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends"

Proverbs 17:9

This is a verse God wants me to apply to my life. I tend to want the approval of others, so run things by them to see if they agree I should be offended. The other day, a teacher I don't know bumped me off a copy machine I was using, and I crabbed at her. She was in a hurry and had a meeting, and she came right up and wasn't asking me if I had a deadline, and was not giving me a choice but to let her on. I was tired, my finger was hurting, and it was actually my break time, so I was trying to get the work done so I could get to my break. I felt bad after crabbing at her, and was formulating my apology when she left the room. I then went and told others how I felt bad about crabbing at her, but I was also telling them what she did that I thought was rude. It shouldn't have, but it made me feel better when someone agreed the teacher was rude. Well, she was, but that didn't call for me to get crabby with her.

So, now, God brought this verse to my mind again. We are studying 1 John in the Sunday class I have been going to for 3 weeks. I have really felt I was ready to act in love towards others. Well, I failed the other day, so have another reason to be thankful to God for his forgiveness.

Oops, Amydeanne, I don't think I was supposed to write so much. I'll be more careful next time.

Click on the icon in the sidebar to get to Amydeanne's blog and more WFW posts, or add yours.

ABCs of the Word, "G"

2009-03-26T00:39:00.003-05:00

Pam, at Grey like Snuffie, hosts ABCs of the Word. Go to her blog to join in or find more posts. Thanks, Pam!

"Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth."

Psalm 57:5

Word-Filled Wednesday 3/25/09

2009-03-24T21:24:00.004-05:00

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the

power of the Holy Spirit."

Romans 15:13

New Yes to God Tuesday Study

2009-03-24T19:49:00.002-05:00

Lelia, at Write From the Heart, has started a new book to study called, an untroubled heart, finding a faith that is stronger than all my fears, by micca campbell. (All the words on the cover are in lower case.)

I had surgery on the tip of a finger, and a mole taken off my face yesterday, had hives today from the antibiotic I was on, and am very tired from the pain medication. I have switched to Tylenol, and hope that takes care of the pain without the loopiness. I would appreciate it if you pray for healing as you read this. I will keep today's post brief .

The main thing I got out of chapter 1 was that the things that happen in our lives are not always because of our own actions good or bad, but whatever does happen, God is always with us. He gives us strength and encouragement, and draws us to Him.

ABCs of the Word, "F"

2009-03-19T18:27:00.006-05:00

"We who are Jews by birth and not 'Gentile sinners' know that a man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So, we too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by observing the law, because by observing the law, no one will be justified."

Galations 2:15-16

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."

Galatians 5:1

For more ABC posts, or to join in, go to Pam's blog, Grey Like Snuffie, as she hosts this Thursday event.

The clip art was from ChristArt.

Word-Filled Wednesday 3/18/09

2009-03-18T20:44:00.002-05:00

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."

1 Peter 5:6

I rarely go anywhere in the evenings during the week, because I am too tired, or just don't feel like going anywhere, and if I do, it's right after supper. Last night, I was going to plant some seeds indoors, and decided I had room for some more seeds, and at 7:30, I decided to go to Target. While there, I decided to see about getting a new battery for my watch, which is something I had been wanting to do, and forgot to do when I was there last. I'm saying all this to point out God has his own timing for things, and provides for his people.

While I was looking to see if anyone was working in the jewelry area, I looked at watches. I felt a bump from behind, and there was a lady in a scooter, apologizing to me, saying the thing doesn't stop right away. I told her I had to use scooters at stores for awhile because I had surgery on my foot. She told me she has had lymphoma a few years, and just recently was diagnosed with breast cancer. She talked a little more, sharing some concerns, then as she started to leave, I asked if I could ask her a question. I asked her if she's a Christian. She said she was, and I asked if we could pray. She said we could, and we held hands, and prayed right there in the jewelry department. She thanked me, and said that made her feel good. Right after that, her daughter and grandchildren joined her. I'm thankful God provided us those few minutes together.

Amydeane, at The 160 Acre Wood hosts WFW. Go to her blog to see more posts.

Self Talk Soul Talk, Week 11

2009-03-18T18:53:00.003-05:00

"Lift up: Praise the Lord, O My Soul" is the 11th and last chapter of the book, by Jennifer Rothchild. Lelia, at Write From the Heart is the hostess. Check her blog for the list of other posts, and the new study that is starting next week.

Sometimes when I have been drawing closer to God, I experience testings. In the past, there were times I felt a bit of resistance when I was praying and feeling the presence of the Holy Spirit so wonderfully, because I wondered what was going to happen next in my life. Lately, God has been blessing me with peace about the church situation. I have had joy in prayer, and trusting God so much that I have told him I don't want to feel that resistance I have in the past. Well, now the testing is coming on. Am I going to keep my eyes on him, and not worry and stew?

Yesterday's chapter was good for me to read today. The first sentences I starred were, "We think that happiness is simply a matter of habitat, and if we could somehow adjust all of the happenings of a given day, we would be happy. In other words, if we could make well with our circumstances, it would be well with our souls." Jennifer says happiness has to do with our hearts.

The circumstances I am experiencing are bringing out some of those symptoms of selfishness Jennifer referred to. My mind keeps going back to the issues, even though I do trust God for the outcome. I am needing to remember to praise God and focus on Him. I also need to go to bed on time. That will help.

A couple more quotes from the chapter I starred:

"Instead of indulging in self-exaltation, which leads to frustration and unmet expectations, lift up God. As He grows bigger in your thought closet, you grow smaller. This makes more room for others and will bring you true satisfaction."

"The Bible tells us that God takes pleasure in our praise. But when we set aside worries about our habitats and lose ourselves in the life-shaping, darkness-chasing, happiness-enhancing experience of pure-praise, the pleasure is all ours. Ah, it is well with our souls."

Praise God! I am feeling better already!

A Church for Me?

2009-03-16T19:56:00.005-05:00

I visited a church that is the same denomination as I am a couple Sundays ago. A couple days later, I had a visit from a family, who brought cookies, and the four year old son said, "We have a Bible for you!" I had been working on my WFW post, and they could see my Bible right next to where I was sitting, so they told their son I already have one. I told them about my blog. The next day, I received a letter from the church thanking me for visiting. Having two contacts from them made me feel so welcome, I went again Sunday. I was actually planning to go again, anyway. The church is quite big, but the second time I went, it didn't feel as overwhelming.

One cool thing about a large church, is that communion takes longer, and you get to sing more. I chose to visit this church because I learned from their website, that they have contemporary worship. The praise teams are awesome! Last Sunday, the team sang an awesome rendition of "The Anchor Holds" which was what the sermon was about. A man sang solo for most of it. It was so beautiful!

Since I went to the early service Sunday, I decided to go to a Bible study for older people, called, "Prime Time" afterwards. I went to that one, rather than the one in the sanctuary, because you can have your coffee with you. :o) Also, I thought their study of the Epistles of John would be a good one to go to. It felt so good to be there. I was welcomed, seemed to fit right in, and the study was great!

Praise God! I have found a good place to be, and we'll see if He leads me to join.

ABCs of the Word, "E"

2009-03-12T00:00:00.002-05:00

Pam, at Grey Like Snuffie is hosting another round of ABC's of the Word. Check out her blog for more posts.

As I was looking up verses that had the word "encourage" in them, one of my brother-in-laws called for my husband. Larry was out walking Heidi, and so we ended up talking. He told me he is unhappy with the church he has been going to because people there are being intolerant. I asked him what he meant, and we ended up kind of arguing. I was trying to teach him from the Bible, using 1 Corinthians 5:9-14 and some others, but he was in the mood to argue. I only took his bait a few minutes, and after several attempts to get off the phone, finally said I really needed to go. One of the things he kept saying was that the Bible contradicts itself. Finally, I said, "So you don't believe the Bible?" He said he does, but religion is personal, and people have to interpret the Bible on their own. Oh, dear, he needs prayer!

Then, I turned the page in my Bible to Romans 15:4-6:

"For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."

It is a hard teaching for those whose hearts are hard, but Jesus is the only way to God.

(The clipart was from www.christart.com.)

Word-Filled Wednesday 3/11/09

2009-03-11T00:00:00.002-05:00

"Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."

Romans 5:1-5

For more WFW posts, go to the 160 Acre Woods, Amydeanne's blog.

(The clipart was from www.christart.com.)

Self Talk Soul Talk, Week 10

2009-03-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

Chapter 9 of Self Talk, Soul Talk, by Jennifer Rothchild, didn't speak to me as much as the rest of the book, but I was back to my usual underlining, circling, and starring in chapter 10, "Press On: March On, O My Soul". The chapter teaches about perseverance.

Jennifer started out with the account of when she sang The Star Spangled Banner at a professional baseball game. As soon as she said she had choked on one word, I knew what her point was going to be. She said she couldn't hear the applause because all the positives were overwhelmed by the one negative, and later in the chapter, she pointed out that focussing on our mistakes makes us want to give up.

Oh, how I've had the tendency to do that to myself! Things can be going well, but I would dwell on the one not so great thing. We get evaluated every May at my job, and I get so stressed out. I can get lots of great comments, but that one suggestion for improvement, or a mark lower than I think it should be is what I focus on, and I am unhappy with the evaluation and wonder if I'm as good at my job as I think I am. The administrator who goes over the evaluation with me, and my husband will tell me it's a good one, and I shouldn't worry about anything.

"Are you prone to quitting when when things don't turn out the way you hoped? If so, welcome to the human race." She says when we are weary from from running the race, it's time to speak truth to our souls and say, "Press on. That will put a little perseverance in your thought closet!"

I think the longest I've stayed at a job is 10 years, but 5 of the years were at a different school than what I'm at now, so this is my 6th year where I am now. I am hoping to persevere and stay put until I retire in 9 years, at the age of 65.

Jennifer says one way to persevere is to turn our feelings into action. "If you feel overwhelmed because a project is due, do the project." "If a particular circumstance intimidates you, take a deep breath and confront the circumstance." "Steady, small actions will slowly reduce the big feeling that is paralyzing you."

Another way to persevere is to affirm our true identity. Who we are and what we struggle with are not the same thing. "Just because you have failed at something, doesn't mean you are a failure." We need to fill our thought closet with "I ams" based on who God is. Some of these, as listed in Appendix 1 are: "I am dearly loved." (1 Peter 2:9-10), "I am a friend of God." (John 15:15), "I am secure." (Romans 8:31-39).

In the section on speaking truth to our souls, Jennifer says, "If you continue to feed your low self-esteem with I can't or It's too hard for me, your low self esteem will grow. But if you begin to starve those things, they will slowly die." That is something God has already started in me. It's good to see it in writing and have it in mind.

There was more great stuff in the chapter, but my post is getting too long. I want to finish with one more quote I underlined. "Your thought closet may be full of big mistake milestones and poorly sung words. You certainly have had and certainly will have times when you just want to get off the field and quit. Remind your soul to focus on the finish, not the flaws and the failures."

I have been unable to make it to the blogs of others as much as I want lately. I hope to do some catching up this week.

God Bless,

Sue

AbCs of the Word, "D"

2009-03-05T21:34:00.003-06:00

"If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives. My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense-Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for our sins, but the sins of the whole world."

1 John 1:8-1 John 2:2

Visit Grey Like Snuffie to see more ABCs of the Word. Thanks Pam!

Word-Filled Wednesday 3/4/09

2009-03-04T17:03:00.006-06:00

Psalm 104:19

"The moon marks off the seasons,

and the sun knows when to go down."

"I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. May my meditation be pleasing to him as I

rejoice in the LORD."

Psalm 104:33-34

For more WFW posts, visit Amydeane's blog,

160 Acre Wood.

Self Talk Soul Talk, Week 9

2009-03-03T15:54:00.002-06:00

Chapter 9 of Self Talk, Soul Talk, by Jennifer Rothschild is called, "Chill Out, Be at Rest, O My Soul." This book study is part of "Yes to God Tuesday" sponsored by Lelia. Check her blog, Write From the Heart for more posts.

I am having trouble gathering my thoughts about what this chapter was saying to me. I think maybe it's that I need to find balance in my life. I frequently struggle with how I spend my time. I have friends who want to get together more than I do. In fact, my husband and I don't like to go out with friends often, partly because we leave our dog home all day, and don't want to leave her at night, too. There is a concert at school tonight that I'd like to go to, but am too tired. There are other things that I'd like to do, but don't find the time to do them, sometimes, it's because I want to be on the computer.

I have trouble keeping up with everything I need to do. The upstairs part of the house, where people are not allowed, is a mess much of the time. I need to let go of some of the stuff we have, because there is not room for it here. I'll start cleaning, but get sidetracked. I feel overwhelmed.

My favorite thing to do right now is blog. That is a good thing, but I have stayed up too late, and not gotten enough sleep. After getting an hour less sleep a day than I really need, not drinking enough water during the day, and breathing things my lungs are sensitive to, I had a head ache much of the weekend. It got worse early yesterday morning, so I ended up staying home from work. I went back to bed and slept past my normal 6:00 to 8:50! I drank lots of water, and went to bed on time. I am still tired today, but the headache is gone.

So, when I read this chapter today, I could identify when Jennifer said, "The time had finally arrived when my fatigue became more powerful than my fortitude." In her case, she was taking on too many speaking and writing opportunities. There was a time I was serving in several ways at my church, and spent quite a bit of time there, but I have pulled away from those responsibilities. But now, I'm just not taking the time to take care of myself.

One of the passages I marked said, "When we are physically and emotionally spent and worn, we become susceptible to the enemy's attack." Jennifer said we need to choose rest for our souls, to speak peace to them. I thought it was awesome when she pointed out that when God rested after creating the world, there was no mention of a beginning or end of that day, like there was for the others. She said God is our rest.

There were a lot more points made, that I already do, to a point. I think the answer for me is to make sure I spend time with God each day in the Word and prayer. When I neglect these things, the cares and worries, and guilt sneak in. I also need to balance the things I do so that I can get enough sleep.

This wasn't a very inspiring post, but I'm not feeling so inspiring right now. I'm tired!

I Guess God Wanted Him Prayed For

2009-03-02T11:37:00.004-06:00

Last week, while I was outside watching students getting on school busses, a man, around 30 to 40 years old was walking on the sidewalk, smoking a cigarette. I am sensitive to smoke, candles, room sprays, perfume, and the like. It hurts my lungs when I breath them. I kept my distance, but asked the man if he knew it's against the law to smoke on the school grounds. He muttered something, made a turn, and walked out of his way to walk right next to me as he kept smoking. As I tried to get away, I got a breath full of the smoke, and reacted, using a word I shouldn't have. I told him he didn't need to walk next to me with that d___ cigarette. As he walked away, he called me some very vulgar names with a very hateful voice, saying he'd smoke wherever he wanted to.

I was angry at his rudeness, but I imagine smokers think those of us who remind them of the rules are being negative, even if we are trying not to sound that way. Then, it occurred to me that God wanted me to pray for him, so I did, and do again if he comes to my mind. Praying for those who do bad things helps us forgive them. God is good!

ABCs of the Word, "C"

2009-02-26T00:00:00.000-06:00

"Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song."

Psalm 95:1-2

For more posts on the ABCs of the Word, go to Pam's blog, Grey Like Snuffie.

Word-Filled Wednesday 2/25/09

2009-02-25T06:52:00.003-06:00

"Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation an my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people;

pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge."

Psalm 62: 5-9

Self Talk Soul Talk, Week 8

2009-02-24T18:36:00.002-06:00

Lelia, at Write From the Heart has a wonderful and humorous post about how she is thankful for hosting our online study of the book, Self Talk, Soul Talk, by Jennifer Rothschild. Click on the name of her blog or the book in the sidebar to get to her site, and the other posts on Mr. Linky.

Chapter 8 is called, "Look Back: Forget Not His Benefits, O My Soul. The quotes from the book will be black. The first passage I underlined this week was, "Remembering is essential to the health of our souls. So we must tell our souls to look back often." Jennifer explained that both pleasant and painful memories can be good to look back on to assign meaning in our lives, understanding how we can profit, or learn from what happened in our past. "Memories can be profitable because they prevent us from repeating mistakes. They guard us against needless worry, and serve as a grounding force in our lives."

Jennifer went on to say that as we remember the events of our lives, we should prompt ourselves to, "forget not"what God has done for us. She said to give ourselves time to do this. "Look around. Take time to observe what lies just beyond the surface of your circumstances. You'll see evidence of the goodness and benefits of God. It feels good, doesn't it?" Jennifer did say, though, that she is speaking of memories that we can handle.

My son and grandson just came over for awhile, because they came back for something they forgot yesterday. I have lost my train of thought, and it's almost time for bed. Let me see if I can gather some thoughts.

Like many people, I have some memories I do not like to go back to. I was bullied as a child, and even as an adult, have been treated unfairly. I have done things that I regret, and have done things that hurt others. I have been overly sensitive, and defensive. I have had good friends who either died or moved far away. I have had spells of being anxious and depressed. Even so, in looking back, I can see that God has worked all things for my good.

I also have memories of good things. My current job is the favorite of all I've had, and without some of the things that were difficult to get through, I wouldn't have it. I had a good time being a stay at home mom until my daughter went to first grade. Our grandson just "hugged" the dogs pictured on our door mat. His sweetness is a wonderful recent memory.

"Remembering allows your experiences to grant you far more than a fleeting moment of pleasure or pain. Join me in telling your soul to 'look back.' When you do, you gaze into a thought closet that has been fully stocked with profitable truth worth remembering."

Serving God Together

2009-02-22T14:40:00.004-06:00

For the last few years, I have led a group from my church in cooking and serving supper 4 times a year at a local outreach center. We have 2 other groups, so together we cover one day a month. Yesterday may have been my last time.

We had someone who is still going to our church, but is feeling similar to how I do, uncomfortable, and not wanting to go to any more meetings, but plans on hanging in there, even though she's also missed some church. There was someone who was asked to do mission work at a new church, not far from the current one, where many of the disgruntled people have been going, so goes there now. There was a family who goes to a different denomination now. There was a couple, new to the church, and who I don't know well, so I don't know how they are feeling about things. I do know they are attending, because they told the one family they'd see them in church.

Some of the regulars in the group were attending Dare to Share with their teens, and one was out of town, so we barely had enough there. It felt good serving God with these people. We agreed we'd like to stay as a group, even if we are going to different churches. I think the others who couldn't make it would agree. The board chair for the 3 groups said it would be OK if we still served, and she would find someone to lead it if I decided I was going to change churches.

I am not going back to the church I visited the last two weeks, because I found out there is something major I disagree with them on. I don't know where God will lead me, and it very well could be back to my church. I am missing people there, but I just can't be around the tension right now. In the letter I wrote to our Pastor and elders, I asked for forgiveness for staying away for awhile, because I feel there are people I am letting down. We really do have a lot of awesome people, who live by their faith. Also, there are some things others know that the rest of us do not, and they feel led by God to do what they are doing, so I can't assume they are trying to cause problems for others. I just know that the Bible says we are to forgive.

When all is said and done, we all need to be willing to forgive each other. Like Pam said recently, people who don't like how others do things will share the same heaven. She said something like that, anyway.

What is happening now, is that God is drawing me to himself. I am not worrying about the church decision. As I was working yesterday, I thought about the situation, and asked God where he wants me to go to church. I felt a peace come over me, and it seemed He was letting me know that it could be awhile before I know where I am supposed to be, but it's OK.

I am thankful to have this community of Christian women in blogland. Bless you all!

(The pic was taken at January's meal, when I was covering in the absence of a leader for that group.)

ABCs of the Word, "B"

2009-02-19T16:34:00.003-06:00

Pam, at Grey Like Snuffie is hosting ABCs of the Word on Thursdays. Check it out.

"My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. "

John 17:20-21

This is where Jesus was praying for all believers, after praying for his disciples just before he was betrayed. The other day, someone put a verse up, in awe that we are the ones talked about in that verse. Here's another example where we are referred to. This is only part of the prayer Jesus prayed for us. How awesome that is! May we all be in Him, so that we can be united with other believers.

Word-Filled Wednesday 2/18/09

2009-02-18T00:00:00.002-06:00

"My mouth will speak in praise of the Lord. Let every creature praise his holy name for ever and ever."

Psalm 145:21

I was thinking this is a good way to keep our thought closets in good order, and to keep them cool and peaceful.

(As I was trying to type in the time I wanted this to be published in the morning, I accidently hit something that made it publish right away. When I tried to edit it and have it post later, it didn't work, so here it is a day early.)

(And after all that, I forgot to say that Amydeane, at 160 Acre Woods hosts WFW, and there are currently 54 posts you can check out, including the accidental link to my garden blog, I need to see if I have time to put a WFW post on. LOL)

Self Talk Soul Talk, Week 7

2009-02-17T05:00:00.001-06:00

Lelia, at Write From the Heart, hosts, "Yes to God Tuesdays". I just found her group when their study of the book Self Talk, Soul Talk, by Jennifer Rothchild began, and joined right away.

This book and study have been a blessing to me, in a transitional time of my life, each chapter, building on the week before, and helping me deal with my thoughts and feelings about walking in faith to find a new church home, and just living daily life. I am going to do what Lelia does, and make the words from the book a different color.

Chapter 7 is titled, "Calm Down: I have Stilled and Quieted my Soul." I didn't write any "wowie zowies" this time, but have plenty of circles, underlines, and stars. The first passage I marked was,

"Our reactions reveal the temperature inside our thought closet. We can use soul talk to keep the thermostat at a cool and steady temperature. We must learn how to still and quiet our souls, to tell our souls to quiet down."

My husband and I are both reactors. He has tennitus, which causes hearing problems, and we have lots of miscommunications. I get hurt and mad at him for getting mad at me, and he gets madder, since I've gotten mad, etc. etc. etc.

"So much of the anger we have in our lives comes from unmet expectations and frustration that we don't have ultimate control."

I haven't gotten angry about the things going on at church, but have been anxious, hurt, and frustrated that people have continued to be in conflict. I have tried to get people to forgive, but they do not listen to me. I am not in control!

"But the real source of anger isn't a tough circumstance or a difficult person; it's the way we choose to think about that person or circumstance."

God is working with me on this, and I actually have experienced peace, knowing God will work things out for the good.

"Some things in this life are simply hard. We don't like them, we don't want them, but we have to deal with them anyway."

"But peace is a quality that can characterize our inner world even when our outer world goes crazy."

"Jesus reveals its source with great clarity: 'Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives.' (John 14:27)."

"Ask God to help you embrace what you can't avoid, accept what you don't like, and channel your passion into wise responses."

Speaking of not being in control, I have been interrupted a number of times tonight, and my daughter came over just now, so I am going to call this a post. I may add more later. I think the main message of this chapter is, God is our source of peace, and He wants us to respond to things in a calm, Godly way. We can have peaceful thoughts, and not anger, which can start fires in our thought closets.

Peace,

Sue