The Day of His Birth

Well the pies are made and salads started. And we're suppose to get some snow tomorrow. I love a white Christmas. Not like last year, we couldn't even travel for Christmas dinner which was only 20 min. away. When they plowed our street, we live on a dead end, the snow was piled up so high we couldn't even get out. So praying that everyone will be able to get with your families and friends. Christmas cards mailed, gifts wrapped, and Christmas clothes laid out. Busy, Busy!! The lights and trees decorated with our special ornaments, the smell of our favorites cooking near by, and the memories we carry with us from year to year. But, do we stop and remember the day Jesus was born is upon us. Was talking to Linda the other day and she said she enjoys celebrating him everyday. Do we and if not, why don't we??? How would it be if the first thing we think when we wake in the morning, is what a blessing today will be. And listen and watch for the signs that he is with us and showing us the way. So many days we let the day go by and take everything for granted. Then as night falls we may stop and talk with the Lord before we settle in before the next day approaches. What did we miss, what was he showing or telling us. All the busyness we so often can't remember half of what we did in one day. Let's try to slow down in the new year and make him #1 as soon as we rise. We may be really surprised at the things we hear and see, once we are focused on the Lord, and believe and have the faith that he's walking right beside us. Well I believe that I have 1 more symbol of the season to share with you.

Holiday Greenery

Evergreens in the winter have long been used for decorating. Their brightness in the gloom of winter represents eternal life, and hope for spring. Some legends say holly represents the crown of thorns worn by Christ, and the berries represent the blood He shed.

"Bring in the fir tree, the box, and the bay,
And deck out our cottage for glad Christmas day!"

These are words of a delightful old carol.

MAY YOUR HOLIDAYS BE EVER JOYOUS.

We pray that everyone has a wonderful Christmas and safety in travel. we will see you after the New Year. Hugs, Brenda

Good Morning!!!

Well, forgive me? I have been out of the loop here lately. With this being the week before Christmas, I imagine that many of you are busy as well with other things. Brenda, I just loved all that you shared with Christmas symbols. If I am repeating this, forgive me ok? I just learned that the early traditions of Christmas cards was to send the message of the gospel to those who could not read. The massive, beautiful stained glass windows in churches were done for that same purpose so very long ago. What beautiful reminders we have of our Savior's birth.

It is a very cloudy , cold day here today with the sun trying to peak thru once in awhile!! I know so many of you have already had rough winter weather!!

Well, I am still making some Christmas presents, and mailing out cards. Just a wee bit behind this year??!! LOL! But I have been enjoying the season this year, I don't always. It has become too commercial for me. However, a lot of what I have done is handmade and that kept me away from the hussle and bussle!!! This will be my goal more and more every year. Helps me to focus on the things that really matter!!

Enjoy your day everyone! Stay safe and warm those of you in the hard winter hit areas!


God's Blessings to All,

Linda

The machine just keeps going and going!

Got up today and started in on finishing up sewing projects that are for Christmas gifts. I've been sitting here at this machine so long, that if I had a old Threadle machine, I wouldn't be able to stand up. What a blessing to have the electronic's we have today. I think the threadle is neat and love all the older things. But when it's time to getting some work done, I'll take the new ones. Some days I rant on and on about everything I have to do. But than I'll think about how the ladies of years past had to do the chores. Can you imagine doing the laundry in the winter! Anytime of year, it would take them the entire day!!! Now we just go in and turn a timer on and go about our merry way. Today we can clean house, do laundry and fix the meals in one day. Now I'm not saying that's the way I do it!!! But we have that opportunity if we want. For one thing, years ago the mom's were not running the children to sports events, parties, church activities, shopping, etc. The children then had to wait until mom had time to sew their new clothes. Everything was freshly made to eat. And as far as needing to go shopping for something to play with, there was no need, they would make their own or just play make believe. I'm not saying that we need to go back to all of the ways of the past, but it sure does make us stop and thank the Lord for the advances that have taken place. I can't even imagine what our grand-kids will someday have. But the one thing that we all shared from the past, today, and in the future, Is the Love of God! Because everyday we learn something new from him if only we look around us and listen. Well I have a couple of Symbols of the Season to share.

Poinsettias

Although it is native to Mexico, the poinsettia as a symbol of Christmas is strictly American. First brought to the U.S. by Joel Poinsett, our minister to Mexico in 1836, the flower was named for him.

Lovely legends surround the bloom. One is of a poor child who wished to give a gift to Mary and was heartbroken because she had no money. As she approached the manger, she pulled some scrawny flowers at her feet, in a gesture of kindness. As she did, the flower was transformed into scarlet brilliance.

Enjoy the many varieties and colors of modern poinsettias as you celebrate your holidays.

Mistletoe

The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe dates back to ancient times. When the Norse god Baldur was killed by an arrow of mistletoe, the tears of his mother became the plant's white berries. His life was restored by Frigga, Goddess of Love, who is said to have kissed anyone passing under the mistletoe. Thereafter, even enemies would call a truce when meeting under the plant.

Until next time, listen for what the Lord is guiding you to do. Hugs, Brenda

Boy its cold outside

Good morning, talk about cold!! They are predicting rain, ice and possible some snow flakes. But I guess, what do we expect. Remember last the big snow storm right at Christmas. It's ok, I love seeing it snow if I don't have to get out. And this time of year I have plenty to keep me busy inside. Want to share a couple of Symbols of the season.

The Christmas Tree
Trees have been associated with the holiday season for hundreds of years. One story involves St. Boniface, a 7th century monk. He used the conical fir tree to represent the Holy Trinity. In Central Europe, trees were hung upside down as a symbol of Christianity.

Martin Luther is reported to have lighted a small evergreen for his children, to demonstrate how the stars twinkled on the very first Christmas. The custom became popular throughout Europe. Prince Albert brought the custom to England in the 1840's.

As immigrants traveled to America they brought the custom with them. A shiny, tinsel-bedecked evergreen at Christmas is one of this country's most beloved holiday symbols.

The Christmas Rose
Deep in the mountains of Europe, a flower blooms in the depth of winter. This flower, a hellebore, is called the Christmas or White Rose. One legend tells of a young shepherd girl who was very sad because she had no gift to present to the Christ Child. In her sadness, she wept. Where her tears touched the ground, beautiful roses bloomed. She plucked a bouquet and presented it to the Babe.After that gift, the rose bloomed around Christmas every year.

What a totally blessed happening to see all the beautiful things that the Lord has provided for us, to see his love for us. Let's keep our minds and eyes open to see even the smallest blessing he is offering! Hugs, Brenda

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas

Well with the little bit of snow that we received over the weekend, it put me in the Christmas mood for sure. I got busy getting my cards out and will be starting my baking tomorrow. I had saved cards from the past years and came across a card that was titled "The Symbols of the Season". I'd like to share a few with you and more tomorrow. I found this very interesting.

Rosemary
This perennial herb has long been associate with the story of Christmas. The most popular legend relates that the flowers of the rosemary plant were originally white. During the Holy Family's flight to Egypt, Mary stopped to rest. She washed the Babe's clothes and spread them to dry on the nearby scrub. The plant's flowers became a heavenly blue, and a marvelous fragrance was bestowed upon the plant.

Legend also says that this plant will never grow taller than the height of Jesus, and if it outlives the 33 years of his life, the plant will grow outward, not upward.

Rosemary has been used for centuries to decorate altars at Christmas. It is regaining popularity as a prized holiday green and is widely used in wreaths and topiaries.

The Candy Cane
The candy cane, so beloved as a holiday treat, is symbolic of the first Christmas. It was created to resemble a shepherd's crook, for it was the shepherds who first heard the news of the Birth in the manger.

The stripes are also symbolic: the wide red stripe represents Christ's sacrifice, while the white stripes stand for purity.

This holiday as your savor its sweetness, be reminded of the sweet gift given to mankind centuries ago.

I know that all the commercialism will fill alot of our holiday. But I'm going to set with the grandkids and talk about the first Christmas. And what it means to each of us. Then we will go at midnight for the candlelight service. It's just beautiful and the meaning of it is a true blessing. So as we go along preparing for that day with family and friends, let's stop often and remember the, "REASON FOR THE SEASON!"
Will bring you more symbols tomorrow. Hugs, Brenda

Wonderful Day!

I do hope that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. It was a little chilly out, but that comes with the time. If you dinner table looked anything like ours did, you got your tummy full of alot of different dishes. And boy were they good! And the best part was seeing my oldest grandson, Stephen. He had just got in from Kentucky where he goes to college. Have missed those hugs. We now have a little one in our group, Patrice's nephew. And all my grand-kids had a ball playing with him. Isn't it what its really all about. Family and realizing the blessings we have all been given this past year. Mom wasn't able to go with us, so today I have a turkey in the oven, have made my pies and potatoes and noodles are cooking. Come Monday, diet is on the top of my list. But I just can't pass up all the holiday goodies. Well let us know about your day and your plans for getting ready for Christmas. Have a wonderful day! Brenda

Thanksgiving

Well are you preparing for the big dinner tomorrow?? I love this time of year when you smell the turkey and dressing cooking and of course the pumpkin pie! Yum Yum!! Thought I'd share my Cranberry Salad with you. This is a favorite at our table.

CRANBERRY SALAD

1 lb. cranberries (I use the package in the produce department)
2 cups sugar
Grind berries, add sugar, let it set in refreg. overnight
Add:
1 pkg. sm. marshmellows
1 #2 can crushed pineapple (drained)
1 pint whipping cream
Whip and fold into mixture

Then just sit back and listen to all the raving about how goooood it is.

Stay safe in your travels and love the blessing of family.

In a few days we will start Christmas Ideas. With all the busyness, lets not forget what Christmas really means for us.

I can't believe that this year is almost gone! I'm going to try next year to just enjoy each day that the Lord gives me and not worry about tomorrow. For he will be with me and help me through whatever may come up.

Let us know what your favorite holiday recipe is!!
Hugs and Blessings, Brenda

Family Times

What can be better than getting together with your loved ones and just enjoying who they are. With the holidays upon us, we will be planning several times to be together. Well Tom and I had a wonderful and fun weekend! Our daughter and son-in-law went out of town for their 20th wedding anniversary. We went to their house to stay with the grandchildren. You need to know that Spencer is 16 and Macee is 11. So they really don't need to be watched but to have someone if they need anything. When we all arrived at their house after school, there was a crock pot full of chili that Patrice had put on that morning. Yippee! No cooking that night. Spencer just kind of hung out and was getting his living space cleaned up for when Stephen comes home Tuesday from college in Kentucky. And he got his homework finished so he didn't have to bother later. Macee had a friend over and we had a fun night of watching movies and Macee made shakes. Then Sat. off we go up to the high school for a fund raiser for the Youth Disabled Olympic. Now we had several group of boys form their own teams(note, they have never played volleyball). Now you have to know that I had one grandson, Johnnie on a freshman team and than, Spencer on a Jr. team. There were about 6-7 other teams. We laughed ourselves crazy. And the boys were laughing and having a good time. If you know about how the teams play the brackets if finally came down to the two best teams for the play offs. Guess what, my two grandsons were going to play against each other! Well the Jr.s just knew they would take these guys, they were much bigger and older. Well they will never live down the end results. Freshmen won!!! It was all for fun and helping out others. And isn't that what life is about. Laughing and enjoying those who touch your life and being there to support and be there to help when needed. This Thanksgiving lets all take a few minutes and just look around you dinner table and see the blessings the Lord has given us. I did just that over the weekend. As we sat and played games Saturday evening, I felt blessed that my grandchildren just wanted to spend the time with us. Laughing, mostly at me, trying to come up with answers to the game. And to think that a 16 and 11 year old enjoyed having a night with grammy and poppy, touched my heart. The Lord is Good, we just need to take the time to stop and see all the little blessings in our life. Happy Holidays!

CHILLY FALL DAY!!!!

Good afternoon, ladies! It is a beautiful, but very crisp, day here today! We had lite snowfall, yesterday that thankfully did not stick!!! Not ready for the white stuff, lol! Yesterday was National Bread Day, thank you Beverly for letting us know, sooo with the help and encouragement of the MJF farmgirls......I made a loaf of bread. I used to bake bread and rolls often. Then just stopped for many reasons. As I find more of myself again, and get back to the things I used to love to enjoy doing.......I get brave and take up the new challenges again. I made an Irish Soda Bread. It came out lovely. Will try to post a pic in a few days. It is a dense bread, but I find the flavor kind of nutty and good. I will do some yeast breads next month. I love the process of making bread and often think of how rattled and stress we are today. The process and joy of growing our own things, making our own things.........well, it has become a lost art for most. I may be in an apt. now. However, my balcony can produce a small container varitey of herbs and such. Without the land to keep up and the younger, healthier body to do the chores, LOL......I am able to take up knitting and some sewing again. I am not able to be on this ol injured foot of mine for too long, so I am able to try to knit and get some sewing and crafts done. These things, I truly think, allowed us to relax more, back in the day, so to speak. Today, everyone is running around all crazy and we seem to have lost a lot of the 'simple' things. Even if you feel you are not 'talented' in baking, crafting, needlecrafts, etc. Think about taking a day and start a simple project of one of these!! There are recipes, instructions and patterns online for free!! How about it ladies? You may surprise yourself and I guarantee that you will find it peaceful and more enjoyable than you may have thought!! ENJOY!! Blessings, Linda

C

GIVEAWAY DAY!!!!

Ladies, today was our 'party' drawing day!!! The winner is.............da-da-da-dada!!! Beverly from Missouri!! Congratulations!! We will be getting ahold of you Beverly! Thank you to all for joining in on our blog and we will have a 'party' every couple months or so. Please keep joining us and leaving your thoughts and comments. We love to hear from you.


How has the day gone for everyone? We hope well. What are everyone's Thanksgiving plans? Any fun recipes to share? Traditations to share?

I think my favorite Thanksgiving dish are the cranberries, we usually have mashed rutabagas, I love those, and my all time fav is pumpkin pie!! How about all of you?

What is everyone thankful for this season? I think family, and prayeres for good health come to my mind first and formost!

Have a good evening Ladies!!

Blessings, Linda

Christian Women's Week

Good Morning! Yesterday I received this beautiful saying from my friend Marsha! She said it would be ok to share it with you.

When I say that I'm a Christian, I'm not shouting that I'm clean living.
I'm whispering, I was lost.
But now I'm found and forgiven.

When I say I'm a Christian, I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak and need
His Strength to carry on.

When I say I'm a Christian, I'm not bragging of success
I'm admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess.

When I say I'm a Christian, I'm not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are far too visible

But God believes I'm worth it.

When I say I'm a Christian, I'm not holier than thou
I'm just a simple sinner who received

God's Good Grace, Somehow!

I just wanted to share with you and that you will share with other ladies, so they will also know that they are cared for.

Thank you Marsha!

STRENGTH FOR OUR DAYS

Good Morning Ladies!!
Well, you know those times when something comes out of nowhere, you sure were not expecting it, and it has the potential to just rock the boat that you are already struggling to keep afloat? That 'boat' called life!!!!

This is where I am at this AM. Details are not important, but my kids dad has resurfaced again. The first time was after 20 plus years, literally on the evening of my father's death, the only father figure my kids ever had!! He stayed in some of my kids life for a few months, then they had a falling out. Well, after nearly 4 years, here he is again as he has sent a letter to the 2 he connected with and had a falling out with. Now, I am not trying to make light of this in any way, on a personal level, I feel sick to my stomach!!! But, at these times, you have to just step back and kinda think, 'REALLY GOD'!!!??? Thought we were done with this trial sometime back!!

As I begin my day, I am hanging on by a thread and will pray those prayers that are tough to pray when you honestly are not at all sure what or how to pray!!!

What truth that I do know, I will cling to---that even when life seems so absurd and out of control, out of my control, when my anger and hurt and frustration get the best of my family and I, HE will be there to step in and hold us up!! Of that I have complete confidence!! Will I like or even enjoy how He may go about it?? Don't think so! Lol! But somehow, in HIS STRENGTH my family and I will get thru the days and challenges and struggles that lie ahead. There seem to be a few lately as there some serious health issues within family members lately as well. What is that saying? '3 steps forward, 2 steps backward?'

Ladies, as you go about your day and face some of your own difficulties and trials, please know that Brenda and I are here to listen and we want for all of us to share and be a comfort and strength to one another. Lift one anothers burdens in prayer and support. May His strength be all sufficient each moment at a time today! Blessings to all!! Linda

Ladies

Challenge

Good Morning! I will need to give you a little background for you to understand my challenge. When our youngest grand-daughter was born, at just a few weeks old, we had to take her to Children's Hospital. The doctor's told us that had we not gotten her there we would have lost her. She stayed there for a couple of weeks and when having her back home was watched by doctors for about a year. Today she is a well and very happy girl of 11 years old. We call her our little angel. When we brought her home, I said that someday I want to do something for all the God's precious little ones. I been reading a bible study about your purpose. And today while listening to today's sermon, that I could do my dream for God's children. I have decided to start making stuffed toys and take them to our Children's Mercy Hospital. They will have something made with God's love, to hold and cuddle. So my challenge is, what could you do for the little ones in you hospital near you. Sharing our love with a little something that was made from our hands using the gifts God has given us is a true blessing. How about it??? If you feel drawn to do this, Let us know make and give through God. Hope to hear from you.

GOOD MORNING ALL!!!

Well, it certainly seems that the air at night here is getting very cold, below freezing at times! I think winter is soon coming. As I logged on this AM, I was glancing at the slideshow on the blog of sunsets. After living in the California desert for many years, this move has been a huge change. The 4 seasons alone, LOL!! I will miss the sunshine as the winter months hide is so very well out here. However, the seasons also bring feelings of change and newness to them as well as we prepare for each one in a different way. Isn't God like that with us? Always changing, molding, working to make, hopefully, a better person than we were yesterday? I hope for that each day! That I may be open to what I need to learn and how I need to grow!


Ladies, we are having a blog 'PARTY'. We will draw a name on Nov 15th. It will be a package of just some fun little surprises! Become a follower, leave a comment and let's share our journeys together and be a blessing to one another!

Have a great day everyone! Blessings, Linda

What is your purpose?

The bible study Linda and I are doing right now is really deep in some places. Have you ever wandered what your purpose was, as God saw it??? I believe that there are many of us that feel that we just don't have anything we would think could be used for our God given purpose he has given us. Until I read this day's chapter, I pretty much felt that way. Don't get me wrong, I love people, just talking to them, helping them out. Have been a teacher in a Christian Pre-school, loved teaching children and also loved leading bible studies with adults. I felt that I was helping in some way, while learning along side of them,I was receiving back also. Math has always been my favorite subject. So working as a office manager for several construction companies, was very enjoyable. Met many people from all walks of life. And loved everyone of them, gave me a chance to see the different ways of life. I got to know them all personally and would sit with them many times and just let them talk about their families. But still thought I was never really giving what my purpose was. I once said, after our youngest grand-daughter, now a very active, and precious little(almost a big girl) girl of 10 was in Children's Mercy Hospital for over a week when she was maybe 2-3 weeks old. We almost lost her, and we call her our little angel! But I said, if I could do anything special it would be something in the baby ward. But yesterday, I had an eye opener. Forever, I have been so wrapped up in crafts, many kinds of art. And I felt for along time, that I wonder how I would use my talents to serve the Lord!! Finally I thought, I know that I physically couldn't sit all day rocking all those sweet babies. Just holding them and letting them know that they are loved and safe. But I do all sorts of sewing, knitting that I could make little blankets for a start, to keep them warm and comfortable. It may not be my arms holding them, but it would be made from my heart and hands. So I am going to start as soon as I get my supplies. Then I started thinking about all the ways my crafts could be used at my church. Making banner's, teaching the children, also would love to start a gift shop of many things that, when you walk in the door, you know that it is homemade and gifts that our Christian sister's and brother's would enjoy receiving. Never have I needed something to keep my mind racing on, but this one does feel RIGHT! Pray for me,please, that a smile from God could be seen by my sharing the talents and gifts the Lord has given me. And that the beautiful little babies will feel his love from their little blanket's And, if you are searching, know that my prayers are there for you also, that when he opens your eyes to what he has given you, that you will share it with other's. Have a wonderful and Blessed day! Hope to see you back again soon. Hugs, Brenda

NEW SEASON COMING!!

Can you feel that fall is in the air? The temperatures are dropping, and the leaves are falling!! As we begin to experience a season of yet change again? Let us focus on what goes on INSIDE of ourselves rather than outsied. Brenda and I had a long great talk today about the spiritual changes that we hope to begin, as we want to grow and change for the better, in Christ. It is often so hard to take a long hard look at ourselves and seek to change the things that are not really pleasing to the Lord, or ourselves. Join Brenda and I as we start a journey of working to change and become better at the things we could do differently, things to make us better as believers! Start to 'journal', put down the things you may want to change and keep track of your progress, thoughts. It is a great way to start!! As the evenings will become longer, colder, this is a great 'indoor' project. What do you think, ladies? Have a great afternoon!! Blessings, Linda

Gods Calling

Well yesterday I really thought the Lord was telling me what I should do. As you all know, I've been taking care of mom. She lives on her on, but really should not be. I run myself crazy going up to her house and then when I'm not there, worry about her. So I was looking for places that have more space that we could move her in with us. Found a really nice 3 bedroom and 2 full baths, one with a shower. Which she needs badly, the bathtub is just to hard getting her into. So discussed this with her and she thought it would work out good. Because she wants me around all the time. Tom and I agreed that this would be the best way to go. Then early this morning she calls me to say that she's not going to move. I just told her that would be ok. But I'm so confused by my thinking and feeling that was the Lords way of helping us both out. She would be there with us if she needed us, and I wouldn't be taking care of two places. I know there is a message in all of this for me. So will spend time in prayer to see where he leads me on this situation. How do you know what is the right thing to do??? It's all on me, because my brother doesn't offer any help. What do you think about knowing when God is leading or it's just what we think he wants? Praying that we all can be lead to do what God would do. Have a nice day, and look for the blessings that he has given you today!

A WILD DAY!

Today was a good day, was going to spend the day with my daughter, Patrice. She is one of those that always likes to have her Christmas shopping finished by the 1st of November. I use to be that way, but not anymore. We had a really fun day shopping and of course had to stop for a wonderful lunch. She is one very busy mommy and for us to get a day for just the two of us is a difficult task. So she just took the day off teaching and took off early this morning. After her two children were off for school. We arrived home about 5:00 and about 30 minutes later my very dear friend, Mary, called and said that she had fallen, could we please come up. She had alreay called the EMT and they soon arrived. They checked her over and said they thought she really needed to have some x-rays. So instead of them transporting her we just took her up to the hospital. Had her x-rays and soon found out she had fractured her shoulder. So off to bone dr. tomorrow. And for sure, she won't be back to work for a month to heal. You just don't know when things are going to happen to change your plans. We were blessed with a wonderful day and just as fast, it all changed and time was spent with a lot of concerns. As I sat there at the hospital I got to thinking how fast things can change, and thought about the times that we just take for granted that there will always be tomorow. Just wanted to remind everyone and myself, never put off telling those you love how important they are in your life. It only takes a few minutes to let them know how you feel. For tomorrow you may not have the chance. I know that this wasn't a life or death situation, but when I left her tonight, I gave her a hug and a kiss on the cheek. And she will continue to be in my prayer's for a smooth recovery. If you would please pray for her also, I know she would appreciate them. I've seen the miracles come from prayers. And I'm a true believer in the works of prayer. Well must go for now, it's time to give myself some rest time, off tomorrow to care for mom with things around the house. And praying for a wonderful day ahead for all of us!

GOOD SATURDAY MORNING TO ALL!!!

Good morning ladies! Well, thank you as some of you join Brenda and I as we learn this 'blogging adventure' that the Lord is guiding us on!! We are going to have a fun giveaway! A grab bag of crafting odds and ends to make you smile! Just become a follower, leave a comment!! We will draw the winner on Nov. 15th!!

Well, we are trying to learn how to post pics of our own, pics from the web, etc. What an adventure this is as we are 2 'grannies' who are learning on our own with the Lord's help how to do computer stuff!! LOL!! Pray for us!! We want this to be a welcoming blog, where we all can share and learn from one another!!

Well, yesterday I put up 2 jars of refrigerator pickles!! They are pretty good, but still curing. I will try to post a pic and share the recipe this weekend. Any of you have some fun, great recipes that you might share?

Brenda and I have been e-mailing this am about our never ending fears and doubts and how that becomes such a stumbling block in our walk with the Lord! Anyone else struggle with that?
How we are our own worst enemies!! Goodness!!

It is my hope and prayer that the Lord is with you and guiding you today!! He is our everything, even on the days we may be struggling and not feeling so strong. If we allow Him, that is when we WILL feel His presence the most!

God Bless your day! Linda

LIVING FOR GOD

Linda and I have started reading and discussing the book "The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. We have both read it before, but with some of the different situation's that we are dealing with today, thought it would be a great help to reread. It was about where your commitment is today, and if we continue with that commitment where will you be in twenty years. It says, "Your commitments can develop you or they can destroy you, but either way, they will define you." The question came to mind, that to live and commit to the ways of the culture we live in, is really basically easy. But to walk with the Lord and commit all our thoughts, actions and works for him, takes a constant mind on "what would God do!" I realized to make God the commitment in my life I will have to except the new life he has given me. I would say that he is the core of my life, yet there are those times when I probably don't think or do as he would have me to. I need work on thoughts I may have of others and try to know that their behavior and words may hurt, but it's not my place to correct them. I just need to love them as a child of God, and he is the one that will touch their hearts. So see, even when we think we are doing so well and walking with him, there's still continued growth in living for him. Maybe sometimes he slips in a little change in our way of living so that we won't get so comfortable with where we are! What do you think? I try to live right for him, but there's still more I could do. What do you say, that today as we go about our daily activities, we stop and think "What would God do?" Have a blessed day!

HOW ABOUT A 'PARTY GIVEAWAY'!!!!!

Ladies, for all of our new followers, how about a giveaway??? Become one of our blog followers and we will put you in for a drawing. More details to follow..........

HAVE A GOOD DAY!!??!!

Good afternoon,

Well, it has been awhile since I have been on to post as well. Brenda and I will be more faithful as we are learning the ends and out of this?!! We are learning how to post our pics and the pics found online that we like. I am HUGE on sunrises, sunsets and nature so I hope you enjoy the little slideshow that I added, accidently!! Still learning.......

Fall is in the air for sure out here. Leaves are turning and the air is cooling......PLEASE not too cool as yet tho. Just not ready for the freezing temps of winter.

As I feel the air change and see the trees change......I am reminded of how 'change' is not something that I do very well. I am a creature of sameness.....is that even a word? LOL!!
I love the fall, no matter where I am living. It is my favorite season. But as winter will be approaching I kind of grit my teeth to prepare! Oh sure, the snowfall IS lovely and peaceful....the freezing cold and wind is just NOT!! My 'ol' bones are never happy..LOL!

As I have moved from a sunny state to a 4 season state.......I have fought the sadness and confusion of changes that a move brings. The Lord led me to a study at my new church to help ease in the transition. We use a book titled 'After The Boxes Are Unpacked, moving on after moving in' by Susan Miller. Bless you my farmgirl sister Kathy, for sending me this book!! What a blessing this book has been. What a blessing the ladies in the study have been!!! Little did I know that months after receiving this book, the Lord would guide me into a bible study teaching the book!! Definately one of those 'Scattered Little Blessings'!!! If any of our blog followers are in this situation, look into this book on E-bay, Amazon, etc. It is an easy read, very helpful, and helps you to realize that we are not alone in some of the feelings we may have as ladies!! Also check out www.justmoved.org. Great site!!

Hope to hear from any of you who are struggling, need a boost, or just want to share with us some moments of you time. May God bless your day! Blessings, Linda

HAD A SPELL OF BUSYNESS!

Well it's been awhile since I've come to the blog. My mother is 86 and starting to have some serious health problems. Have had her in the hospital 3 times in the last couple of months. I knew that I was busy before, taking her everywhere she needed to be, helping around the house and taking care of her med's. But this time, it's really getting me down. She's had two falls and Tom and I have not been able to get her up on our own. We had to call the EMT's. I have one sibling and I'm trying not to complain. But it gets very irritating when he's not there to help out at all. He'll check in once in awhile and maybe go an see her every few months. And thinks he's done enough. But the good thing, is the Lord has blessed me with a loving husband and two wonderful grown children, and five grand-children that are there when I do need help. It could be very easy to go on a pitty party and feel sorry for myself. But what good would that do. And I'm sure that the Lord doesn't want me passing my time that way, when there is so much more GOOD that I could be doing. So the Lord and I stay in contact all the time now. There's nothing that I do or say to mom that I've not asked him for advice and guidance. I really believe that God doesn't make these situations where mom has gotten hurt and ill, but I do believe that he takes advantage at those times to teach and show us just how much we need him in our lives. On our own, our decision making, is not well thought through and we miss a lot of what he's lead us to do. So everyday I begin by thanking him for giving me the strength to do what needs done. And for all my family and dear friends that are there to support me. It's ok to ask for help!, which is one that I struggle with. But just that small time of away time and rest, surprisingly it is a huge gift that gets you back up and going. We have so many blessing right there in front of us if only we would open our eyes to see. The Lord is Good and he's with us at all times. If you have been a caregiver with an older family member or any age for that fact. Please share with us, so we can share our prayer's with you. Go forward and make this a day the Lord will smile upon us!

The Trying Times

Good morning to all,
Anyone have those trying days? Where try as you might life just 'gets in there'? The past couple weeks have been like that as Brenda and I have shared. I have a park near where I live, that has several ponds, small lakes. I hope to post pics soon!! Need to learn how to do that!!LOL! Anyway, lately, I go there and just sit in my car and enjoy the view, the sounds of nature, the quiet time with God. To smile, pray, cry if needed. If I get there early I can watch the sun rise up in the distance and shed a glossy shine on the water. The beauty of it all is just amazing!!For those few minutes, nothing else exsists except looking at His Glory!!
Now, I know that most of our days are filled with the 'busy' of todays world. There is just the daily things of life to deal with. For many there are extreme trials of life that you may keep to yourself in pain. I just want to encouage all of you, no matter how dark your struggles and circumstances are........PLEASE find just one thing that can give you a feeling of peace, if only for a moment of the day and cherish it.
Please know, that as Brenda and I will be sharing, we DO UNDERSTAND!!! We have and are going thru difficult times ourselves and some days it is truly a fight to hang in there, let alone find the 'good' in the day!!
Know that we are all the same, and can hopefully share and grow together. Tell us your stories.
Blessings for you day, Linda

BLESSING OF ANOTHER DAY

The birds are singing beautifully this morning. Sun is shining and surprisingly quite. When I look out my office window in the back of the house, all I see is trees. One of my favorite place to be in the morning with my cup of tea. For me its hard to get going in the morning, because I don't want to let go of all the blessings the Lord is showing me. Which is a GOOD thing, as Martha Stewart would say!! Just a little note, that's as close to Martha I will ever be, she would faint if she saw how I did things. But to get on through the day, I'd just rather get a good book, do bible study and chit chat with friends. THEN I see the little lady across the street from me, she's 99 and everyday she's up and going. She helps with the Historical Society, the clothes closet. She would never miss attending church and the social groups. Can't miss her card playing group!!! And Always has a smile on her face. The other day I saw her sitting out on her porch, and I stopped to see how she was doing. She told me she was lonely, she had nothing to do that day! So I just went up and sat down with her on her porch swing and we had a good visit. She's just full of stories. I really do enjoy her! When I got up to go home, she took my hand and told me she was so glad to have me over to visit. Bless her heart! What to me was nothing outstanding, to her, it brightened up her day. SO here I am, again the Lord showing me that I don't have to create a big impression, just a little touch and a smile can go on forever. He will always see the little things we do, and is very happy with us. So let us know what you have done today to make someone smile. It feels good and I'm still smiling being with her! Have a wonderful day!

GRAND-CHILDREN

Just want to share picture of grand-children. They double dated for homecoming.

GRAND-CHILDREN

Just want to share my picture of grand-children. They double dated for homecoming. Spencer thought they were just going to stand there and smile. But Trisha surprised him and threw her leg up and he grabbed her so she wouldn't fall. You can see the look on his face that he was SURPRISED!

FALL DOWN, GET BACK UP!!!

Good Morning to All!!!
May I share a couple of my favorite scriptures? They are ones I always rely on to hold me up even when I am down.
'ALL things work together for good for those who are called according to His purpose.........Romans 8:28
'For I know the plans I have for you, plans to give you a hope and a future.....Jeremiah 29:11
If these are not already familiar to you, please take the time to look them up. They can be a beacon of light in our darker days.
I just spent the last several days in 'the dark'. With various health isssues and trials facing family members, I just 'caved' under the fear, hurt and uncertainity of things!! I am not proud of that. As a believer I know that I should be stronger, I should be leaning on the Lord more and questioning less!!?? However, we ALL have these times don't we? We live in a fallen world full of pain, hurt, confusion, and at times anger. Anger at life, ourselves, others around us, and if we are honest? Often times we direct our anger and hurt at the Lord!! That is how I spent this last week or so. I felt a deep despair. With prayers, and thanks to all who prayed with me, I began to find the 'Scattered Little Blessings'. Some, honestly were not so 'little'! However, when you are in that pit of depression, even the good is hard to find. Daily, with His strength and help, I do believe we can find our way out. It is often a little by little process, however, He will continue His work within us!! My family circumstances have not changed. How I CHOOSE to look at them is beginning to change. I do not know all the things that many of you are struggling with. It is my hope and prayer that, today, you lay it all at the feet of our Lord Jesus. That you be honest with Him in your prayers, allow Him to begin to work in your circumstances. Now, let me assure you, Brenda and I are Grannies yes! But we have our own life stories, our own histories, our own 'been there done that'. Whether it was ourselves, family, or friends that have experienced life to the fullest, lol, we probably understand whatever you may be going thru. We hope to be used of the Lord to be of help, a place where we can share, grow, and lift one another up and just get blessed by one another!! Blessings and prayers to You!! Linda

Frustrations

Have you had days when you just couldn't get anything right. Well it seems like the last few days that's where I've been. Linda and I have talked and talked about a way that we could share our love of "God". With us both having physical limitations we came up with the idea that maybe with a blog we could share our thoughts and feelings. Now neither one of us know what were doing. haha But with the help from family members we have at least got one beginning. But there's just so much we want to do with it. We see all the beautiful ones that we visit and they are very attractive. But, last night I was trying to go to sleep and the thought came to me that if this is something the Lord is leading us to do, he will provide the information we "think" we need to have, when he "knows" we are ready for it. The pretty backgrounds and pictures add attention to the site, but it's the "words" that are important. As you can well see we have not even sent this out for other's to comment on. It's all just been testing. But then I think, well the post we left were from our heart and they should be shared. Why is it that you always think you have to make something Better before you show it to others???? So, am I alone in this struggle? If I just sit here and see the blessings he has already provided to us, why is it we hesitate?? He's provided us with other's that have shown us the way to the "LORD" and we both have the ability to type, able to sit for a while without to much discomfort. And the desire to search his word for his way through our journey. WHY is it we always think there has to be more.

Gods Blessings

This morning while drinking my cup of tea, I thought this would be a good day to clean up and put away all my yarn deco and bring out the Fall. So I went around to the back first. I have a 7-8 ft. porch post that we had found in a garage sale. I painted it sage green and Tom put up 3 iron hangers for my plants. Memorial Day I had taken a beautiful hanging basket out to my daddy. He loved red, and this was red and white flowers. During our really hot-hot part of summer, I just couldn't keep enough water on it and I thought I had lost it. Today when I went back there, I thought I saw some color in my dead plant. Pulled all the dead part out and the planter was filled with red and white flowers. I felt daddy was smiling down at me. THE LORD IS GOOD! It made me think of the times that we are down and hurt, that God is always there to care and protect us, just like he did my little flower. What miracles have you seen in your life lately?? So often we are waiting for something big, the big kaboom! Many times it's the little things like my flower. Take a break and look around at all the beauty that the Lord has provided us everyday that we just expect it to be there. When I suggest to look, I'm meaning, really SEE what is there in front of you. Then you'll see God intends for us to be surrounded with beauty. He's handing it out to us everyday. Have a wonderful day and please take time to talk with God today. He loves it when you come to him in conversation.

Blessings to everyone! WELCOME to our new blog. We hope that it can be a place to share and strengthen one another thru the Lord. As Brenda has shared we will also have some fun giveaways once in awhile. So keep joining us!! Blessings for your day's. We are two moms and grandmas that the Lord brought together in friendship. We have experienced trials and joys in our lifetime. We do not have all of life's answers, by any means. We are a work in progress! But we hope that thru this blog we all can share our joys and sorrow as well as our fun and laughter!!

Blessed Sunday

It's going to be a wonderful day for everyone! You know the Lord doesn't want us to carry so many burdens in our hearts. With all we deal with every day it can become quit a weight on our shoulders. He wants us to have love and peace to guide us. And all the things we are in and all the things we just keep hanging on to because we think we just can't get rid of them. I think we know by now that they are not the important thing to make us feel happy. Have you noticed that when all the problems and hassels are getting you down and you just hand it over to the Lord and trust and believe that he's going to guide you where he wants you to be, that a peace comes over you and you know all things will work out. As we all well know, it may not be as we had PLANNED, but it works, out for the best, for all of us. It's such a blessing to wake up every morning, knowing that he already knows where and what we are to do today. The time we spend in Prayer with him, he will bring insight in to what path you need to take for that day. Go out today and praise the LORD! For he will bring you love, contentment and peace! Lord, help us to continue to pray for all that loss family and friend on 911. We can not let what happened that day fade away. And Lord, for all those reading this today, be with them and guide them through the journey you are taking them on. Thank you for this beautiful morning and the new change is season. It is such a blessing to see all the new miracles you put forth in front of us. I pray we all can take the time, to take all the beauty in. In our heavenly father's name, AMEN

Wonderful Saturday

Woke up this morning and first thing I saw was the beautiful sun shining in my window. The windows are open and I just love hearing the birds singing. The Lord is Good. Then I had a visit with Linda and of course we share our laughter!! Again the Lord is Good. When signing up on Mary Janes Farm, I never dreamed that I would make such a wonderful new friend. Now she just seems like she's part of my family. And can you believe we've not yet met in person. But that is coming real soon, and we both can hardly wait. My ten year old grand-daughter sent me a pic of herself trying on dresses that she is getting for a wedding she's to be in. When I saw it, tears just came to my eyes. She looked just like a princess.
We want them to experience life as they should, but boy it's hard to let them grow up. Linda and I are working on this blog thing. So far can only get the posting done. So until later, have a wonderful day!


Have Faith In The Lord!!

Welcome to our new and first blog. Linda and I(Brenda) have working hard just trying to learn how to create a blog. Yes I know! Everyone says it's so easy. But we are just happy that we've gotten to this point. We are two granny's that live our life for the Lord and he has blessed us with 10 grandchildren. So our lives seem to be pretty much surrounded with little ones, and young adults. We want this to be a place that you will want to visit everyday and get some inspiration from all the little blessing's we have received, maybe a good receipe, or if we've been busy with crafting-we'd like to share that with you also. And of course our funny experience's with our familie's. And hope that you leave comments as we go. Well just trying this out and hoping soon well find out how to make this place (pretty!) See you tomorrow!