tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45087308451931494572024-02-18T19:29:30.927-08:00Grace For TodaySharing God's Goodness and The Things I LoveAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-74395508982089449132013-12-04T07:20:00.003-08:002013-12-04T07:26:57.537-08:00Grace For TodayFor some time now, I have felt that I need to change the name of my blog. From the beginning it has been called "Tea, Friendship and the Fine Art of Card Making." These are three things I get lots of satisfaction from and continue to enjoy, but are not what is of greatest importance in my life. That would be my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. So this has caused me to ponder in the past few weeks what I should re-name my BlogSpot. I have found myself focusing on God's grace more and more and how much I need and want it daily in my life. So true of all of us, isn't it! I couldn't quite think of just the right name until this morning (I'm sure it was a God thing) and then it suddenly came to me - simple but powerful - Grace For Today! Yes, this "fit" perfectly. We live in and by the grace of God moment by moment and day by day. So welcome to my old but new blog with a new title and a new focus! Yes, I'll still be talking about tea, friendship and the fun of making handmade cards, but my blog has really always been about Him which means it's always been about His grace in my life. <br />
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Welcome to Grace For Today ~ God always has it in abundant supply! ♥<br />
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<em>Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.</em></div>
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</em>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-51430479102340238352013-11-22T22:07:00.002-08:002013-11-23T06:20:22.454-08:00Garment of Praise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I just finished reading in the book of Isaiah, Chapter 61 focusing on verse 3: "...and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor." I am very familiar with this chapter and verse, but today was one of those times when reading and meditating on God's Word that this verse just leaped out at me. I think it's because I am still having hard days due to my mom's death almost 4 months ago. Some days I seem to be fine and other days I still mourn losing her. This is not to say that I don't know where she is now and rejoice that she is happy and free and joyous in the presence of the Lord she served for so many years; just that it is hard not having her here anymore.<span class="text_exposed_show"><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show">Aren't you thankful that the Lord gives us a crown of beauty for ashes? I'm glad for the oil of joy that replaces and will continue to replace my mourning. And I REALLY like wearing a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair ~ thank You, Jesus! As I was reading this verse, in my mind I was putting on this garment and praising our Lord. The more I praised Him the more I felt His loving and healing touch. Did I feel like praising? No! But we do not go by our feelings, we do as the Bible tells us to do and I was told in God's Word to put on the garment of praise this morning. I plan on wearing it all day today and with His help I'll put it on again in the morning. </span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show">I like the idea of being an Oak of Righteousness. My righteousness is through my Lord and I want to be as solid as an oak tree. And just imagine being a planting of the Lord "for the display of His splendor." How incredibly awesome is that! I pray that every day, in every way, in every person I encounter and in every conversation I have, I will be a conduit for God's splendor. Lord, let it be.</span></div>
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</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-64308337795175971422013-11-22T21:51:00.000-08:002013-11-22T21:51:03.481-08:00Cultivated Tea Collection for the Armchair Traveler<span class="userContent"><div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_529040c2d6c980181287932">
In case you don't know, I really enjoy shopping at Trader Joe's. Today I went with the hope that their seasonal specialty teas would be available. I wasn't disappointed! In addition to the Vanilla & Cinnamon Tea and the Candy Cane Green Tea<span class="text_exposed_show">, I was delighted to find 3 new flavors (new to me, in any case!) in a beautiful "Old World" designed tin, aptly named "Trader Joe's Cultivated Tea Collection for the Armchair Traveler." The name alone would be enough to make me want to purchase it! The tin contains Rooibos from South Africa, Sencha Green Tea from Japan and Assam Black Tea from India. Hope you'll soon be stopping by for a virtual cup of tea and a long chat! Here are pictures of the colorful and artistic containers:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_BegA6dl_0mYoz0I5_oZtAyGc5ugt1MAOIt09Jqc_XTB9Ul4z3WWqN7UxPmUhRJycymo4V5PpJgIDQoPxCPTOe7sSunNKmfZt8eY0YXSn-5WB5WFpZ1PBcThMu7FLJQqlZsLa9wjJg/s1600/tea1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_BegA6dl_0mYoz0I5_oZtAyGc5ugt1MAOIt09Jqc_XTB9Ul4z3WWqN7UxPmUhRJycymo4V5PpJgIDQoPxCPTOe7sSunNKmfZt8eY0YXSn-5WB5WFpZ1PBcThMu7FLJQqlZsLa9wjJg/s400/tea1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-78070747827140910522013-11-21T23:15:00.001-08:002013-11-21T23:25:48.648-08:00Christmas Traditions<span class="userContent"></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am always interested in what others' Christmas traditions are; so with that in mind, how about sharing what your family does through the years at Christmas? And not just the day itself, but the days leading up to Christmas. Do you put your tree up early? We put ours up the first weekend in December. The year I retired we bought a beautiful artificial tree. I had always wanted a big tree so we bought the biggest one they had at the store! I love looking at it in early morning, before the sun rises and it is shining in the darkness. It is so beautiful and sparkly with all the pretty decorations and especially the bright lights glowing; they represent the one and only Light of the World to me. <br />
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I think of Christmases past as a child and the anticip<span class="text_exposed_show">ation of opening my gifts. It all comes back in a rush - our children's Christmas plays at church, parties at school, listening for Santa on the roof (yes I did!), and most of all telling Jesus Happy Birthday from my heart. I still wish Him a Happy Birthday and thank Him for the best gift of all - my salvation. As an adult, I love to decorate the Christmas tree, just as I enjoyed helping as a child. Most of my ornaments have been ones we've had for years. Many were made by my mother-in-law. She gives me a new ornament every year. That's a tradition I love and look forward to. (She also gives me a box of Brach's Chocolate Covered Cherries, too!). And for the past 10 years or so, I buy myself a new ornament when I'm out Christmas shopping. <br /><br /> I like to sip hot chocolate or tea while I'm decorating the tree and listen to Christmas carols. It really puts me in the Christmas spirit! Craig always does the lights for the windows and the tree and leaves the decorating to me. Some years I volunteer to help decorate our church campuses. That is fun and we all share lunch together.<br /><br />Now let's hear from you - what are some of the things you like to do during this Holy Season? <i class="_4-k1 img sp_eyiyiq sx_eba5be"></i><br /><br /> P.S. I'm adopting this warm, cozy house (pictured in the above graphic) for Christmas so that all of us can meet and share time together, enjoy lots of good food and treats, take a walk in the crisp, cold air and maybe even have a snowball fight! We're really not too old for that, are we? ☺<i class="_4-k1 img sp_eyiyiq sx_f6995b"></i></span></div>
</span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-87851525280077272412013-11-21T22:41:00.002-08:002013-11-21T23:41:49.568-08:00New CardsHere are a few of the recent cards I've made:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYnG4dCIdo4rpCi24gVTls2WZ5aIJzy7Ses5vDqU8rmEOVX_3gnFEOPN2ZBa0Fm8dQNrGVSr7zBylj11i7AR-2jaXdM7W2Ph32pM4-ZVBGUD4VIiVU6Or1SVgF3pJ4dET4K3HY_2e9Q/s1600/easelcard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYnG4dCIdo4rpCi24gVTls2WZ5aIJzy7Ses5vDqU8rmEOVX_3gnFEOPN2ZBa0Fm8dQNrGVSr7zBylj11i7AR-2jaXdM7W2Ph32pM4-ZVBGUD4VIiVU6Or1SVgF3pJ4dET4K3HY_2e9Q/s400/easelcard.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A teacup easel card</div>
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A Thanksgiving card</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawrTB-7KfinzHkSllQRPXYJmhLOT4pQ4ChypO5-kBaM0zv2UDEkCZsXVT4yyGLwLJKPZ0S4Uk2o-Z2tCO6CczlduxUOL6OUMPGl6rjA9qej9nn0NHlQXxbjYuGLCjKgdR5oWOl8aJuA/s1600/BDCard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawrTB-7KfinzHkSllQRPXYJmhLOT4pQ4ChypO5-kBaM0zv2UDEkCZsXVT4yyGLwLJKPZ0S4Uk2o-Z2tCO6CczlduxUOL6OUMPGl6rjA9qej9nn0NHlQXxbjYuGLCjKgdR5oWOl8aJuA/s400/BDCard.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A Parisian BD card for a friend</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-38794402410836614322013-11-21T22:34:00.000-08:002013-11-21T22:34:10.499-08:00Slow Down!<span class="userContent"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Has the following happened to you? I certainly has to me! I can remember a time a few years before I retired when I was determined to do "more, more, more" at Christmas. It left me so exhausted that my Christmas wasn't as enjoyable as it should have been. After that, I vowed that I would not let the season "rush" me but would spend extra time with the Lord and in just enjoying Christmas. Oh, every now and then, I do start to slip back but thankfully the Lord catches me in time! <br /><br /> It doesn't have to be about Christmas, Friends. Whatever you're doing, even if it's for the Lord and it's wearing you out, please pause and say a prayer and ask the Lord what He would have you do. We can so easily get caught up in our busy lives and in service to the Lord that we lose our closeness and int<span class="text_exposed_show">imacy with Jesus; not to mention being on an emotional roller coaster! I am speaking to myself as well as to you. Anyway, the excerpt from the book below says it better than I can, so hoping you'll take time today to gain strength from God's Holy Word, spending time with Him in prayer and getting that much needed spiritual as well as physical rest. <br /><br /> <u>Women Living Well</u><br /><br /> "It is in our slow moments when we best connect with our Creator...<br /><br /> When we do not slow down and rest, we miss God's voice. We tend to feel overwhelmed, irritable, frustrated, and unappreciated. Emotionally we can lose our way. We have been deceived into thinking that more is better: more food, more clothes, more toys, and more decorations. </span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show">"More, more, more" falsely promises to make us happy. Even when we are pursuing something noble, such as serving others or volunteering, the overactivity threatens to bring chaos to our homes and families." <br /><br />~Excerpt from Women Living Well - The Book</span></div>
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-27918432533461907852013-06-01T19:11:00.002-07:002013-11-21T23:27:38.842-08:00Afternoon Tea<span class="userContent"></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Afternoon Tea<br />
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<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show"> it is time for tea.<br /> The fine china cups<br /> are filled with the brew.<br /> There's lemon and sugar<br /> and sweet cream, too.<br /> But, best of all<br /> there's friendship, between you and me.<br /> As we lovingly share<br /> our afternoon tea.<br /><br /> ~Marianna Arolin~</span></div>
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</span></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-29361345990815118672013-04-22T09:48:00.000-07:002013-04-22T09:48:05.065-07:00It's All About Gratitude!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-LV8H7BvKU1SNNiS_gxoYq0BWvOqdFjzjatu8VS2lZfxrBqwWxaExv5EWq_nB0hckBaSZp-QLMJpDBE1a_JiZFUl7-ZQVbWIucZ3VehfYX6xrzWmXVMgmLG0ufinLa4a1-dTHsU7xA/s1600/gratitude.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-LV8H7BvKU1SNNiS_gxoYq0BWvOqdFjzjatu8VS2lZfxrBqwWxaExv5EWq_nB0hckBaSZp-QLMJpDBE1a_JiZFUl7-ZQVbWIucZ3VehfYX6xrzWmXVMgmLG0ufinLa4a1-dTHsU7xA/s320/gratitude.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Today, as I do five days a week, Monday through Friday, I got dressed and prepared to go out for my morning walk. Well today, as happens more times than I care to remember, I didn't feel like it. I felt fine physically but mentally I was lagging and almost decided not to step out the door. However, I finally let my better judgement rule and out I went. It wasn't very long as I was walking towards our central park in the middle of our apartment community that I had an attitude adjustment. Whether it was a thought put there by the Lord or something that just occurred to me (I really do think it was the former) in a reflective moment, I can't say for sure but I began to realize how fortunate I am to have two strong legs to carry me on my walk every day. I thought about the dear people in Boston who had lost limbs in the recent Marathon bombing. They will never walk or run again. Yes, they'll be fitted with prostheses which is a wonderful thing, but it won't be the same as it was before. I thought of my husband lying in bed with a serious back problem. Though temporary, he would love to be out walking again. I'm sure I could think of many more examples. I quickly repented of my attitude. <br />
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I like to think of myself as a grateful person. And I think I am for the most part. I thank the Lord daily for all His many blessings and benefits, but sometimes we let our feelings get in the way. At least I do. It doesn't matter how I "feel" when it comes to doing something I don't want to do but know it will help me in the long run We all know how beneficial exercise is, and I am so glad I got out there and took that walk. And I am doubly blessed that while I am doing something good for my health, I have the added pleasure of walking in very lovely surroundings. We have many beautiful flowers, plants, manicured lawns and a wide variety of trees to enjoy while spending time outdoors. Who could ask for more?<br />
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Thank You, Lord that you have caused me to have a change of heart this morning. Thank You for the beautiful place you have given me to live. Help me to awaken each morning with a song in my heart and on my lips - a song of praise and thanksgiving for all You have given me. May I always keep my eyes focused on you and not on my feelings. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-90899345505187242942012-10-14T17:52:00.002-07:002012-10-14T17:54:59.767-07:00And More Cards...Here are several of my most recent card creations. Right now I am working on my autumn cards as it will soon be time to begin making some for Thanksgiving and Christmas! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfWLN-rTDnCl6nxrD0ugGC2VIWKygflSrADkADDXnY3icAgBesCl-IgRTWU8raJ6CRSt4i8BEghMOUU9tprEpcJ5rJZg9auuBBxqwQrm-Y_IdjTkm0zLj7xRjWao3jCOYErkB_RArlQ/s1600/CupcakesCard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfWLN-rTDnCl6nxrD0ugGC2VIWKygflSrADkADDXnY3icAgBesCl-IgRTWU8raJ6CRSt4i8BEghMOUU9tprEpcJ5rJZg9auuBBxqwQrm-Y_IdjTkm0zLj7xRjWao3jCOYErkB_RArlQ/s320/CupcakesCard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The cupcakes are part of a small stamp set from Paper Wishes, a wonderful site where I order many of my craft supplies. Check it out at <a href="http://www.paperwishes.com/">www.paperwishes.com/</a>. You will be delighted at all they have to offer. In addition to card and scrapbook supplies, they offer tutorial videos on many of their products. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdmL3Zo_K8xGhs89gSAk72d9eFCWvE7ZT3NUd-8QjMlp_YNHCXVDLfJU6b-ageODdvaGyLsIAREvUAAFD5Qjw3bZi3Y-4-3Bf_skByRicCKXz4MkG1a4xaNzMChFsIfKZ27ucRjoclg/s1600/PleatedFlowers1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdmL3Zo_K8xGhs89gSAk72d9eFCWvE7ZT3NUd-8QjMlp_YNHCXVDLfJU6b-ageODdvaGyLsIAREvUAAFD5Qjw3bZi3Y-4-3Bf_skByRicCKXz4MkG1a4xaNzMChFsIfKZ27ucRjoclg/s320/PleatedFlowers1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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These adorable pleated flowers are from a Hot Off The Press template called "Pretty Pleated Flowers." They were easy to make and fun to create. <br />
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This is a card made by using my Spellbinder Grand Calibur, some pretty lace and a rose stamp colored with my Marvy Le Plume pens. A simple card to make and can be used for any kind of greeting card. <br />
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This jar full of candy treats is made from my new Hot Off The Press "Well Preserved" stamps. With a lace doily as background and some pink patterned paper and a pretty ribbon added, it makes for a cute gift for a special friend or family member who likes to can. Actually, anyone would be delighted to receive a paper gift of candy delights! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJOGoLReRqI4IAltfOSWMlb4W2JsccHtBc7SDpH2aQ-KmJTgHM3gHhQ3ZwNfdfT8JRRwbIXEYHQmzD4-LX6ZlXXZ3PeQxvL_QsVYkuFkujvkub0pGSYmbT7ZlCIFOky1aRXrJSFtBSA/s1600/VintageLady.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJOGoLReRqI4IAltfOSWMlb4W2JsccHtBc7SDpH2aQ-KmJTgHM3gHhQ3ZwNfdfT8JRRwbIXEYHQmzD4-LX6ZlXXZ3PeQxvL_QsVYkuFkujvkub0pGSYmbT7ZlCIFOky1aRXrJSFtBSA/s320/VintageLady.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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My favorite cards to make are those representing the Victorian or vintage era. On the card above I printed out a photo of a lady from this time period and added a few embellishments ~ lace, felt roses, dazzles and a date stamp. This will be a birthday card for my mother-in-law Dorothy's 90th BD in November. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-40589256186415176712012-08-05T21:26:00.001-07:002012-08-05T21:29:37.157-07:00New Cards & ToolsHello, Friends!<br />
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It's been a while since I've taken the time to blog. I plan on doing that later this week after I have recovered from this nasty summer cold. Yuck! In the meantime, I wanted to share a couple of my latest cards with you. I've bought some new stamps, learned how to make 3-D roses, and just had fun experimenting with new ideas and tools (such as my scor-buddy). God bless you and I'll see you again very soon!<br />
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Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love tea so I was delighted when I came across these tea stamps from Hot Off The Press! I used colored pencils to fill in the spaces in the tea pot, in the corner roses, and in "Tea Time." <br />
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The lines in the yellow background of this card were made using my new scor-buddy. They give the card more depth and enhancement.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-82361294060009978642012-05-18T19:20:00.001-07:002012-05-18T19:21:55.889-07:00New Tea Pots!Here are my two most recent tea pot purchases. While back in my hometown for a recent visit with family, I had bought the Rooster Tea Pot (found it at Walgreens Drug Store) for my sister Alice who collects tea pots <em>and</em> roosters. I knew she would love this combination that gives her two collectibles in one! When I returned to L.A. I decided to check our local Walgreens to see if they had the tea pots here, and not only did they have the rooster tea pot, but several others as well. And best of all, they were on sale so I was able to purchase two for the price of one! They are part of the Martha Vaughn collection. I am so pleased to have found them and to be able to add them to my collection. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEfhYPfgJVoJsdK-SVczCNckSHdwFCeV0dCwOZcvqFVEo-BomYbQX55JdyeK3o9u05058ahfs5laS-_tr9AQpx7HBBvkP-_lLSjnhp556O3t0k_TXD1O7te4LtdzAvVaWHEW64BO8lA/s1600/VaughTeaPot1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300px" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEfhYPfgJVoJsdK-SVczCNckSHdwFCeV0dCwOZcvqFVEo-BomYbQX55JdyeK3o9u05058ahfs5laS-_tr9AQpx7HBBvkP-_lLSjnhp556O3t0k_TXD1O7te4LtdzAvVaWHEW64BO8lA/s400/VaughTeaPot1.jpg" width="400px" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-73189330703427851972012-05-15T17:49:00.000-07:002012-05-15T17:49:49.966-07:00The Brevity of Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKouezILMsBq-08bRj68SKhzkqwfkjZWr8fAY_cHc1MVgyJb4r8ZiFlNXK573zw5gyk0pHuQxuhmcvqmOS4x2lNW8gn0bVmVyBrtU5M0buUXeW4VCj0atWT6AeYEeEqULSpPcMfaVSQ/s1600/Janelle.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKouezILMsBq-08bRj68SKhzkqwfkjZWr8fAY_cHc1MVgyJb4r8ZiFlNXK573zw5gyk0pHuQxuhmcvqmOS4x2lNW8gn0bVmVyBrtU5M0buUXeW4VCj0atWT6AeYEeEqULSpPcMfaVSQ/s1600/Janelle.png" /></a></div>I'm feeling sad today. My friend Kristine's sister-in-law passed away a few days ago and her funeral was held today. I didn't know Janelle, but I felt I did because I read her blogs on a daily basis. Janelle was 53 years old and had a brain tumor. She hadn't been able to post for the past 3 months, so her husband began to give weekly updates on her condition. She knew that unless God chose to heal her here on earth, she would be healed by going Home to be with Him. I was inspired by her upbeat and encouraging posts and looked forward to reading them every day. She would usually post a Psalm and expand on it by adding a personal word of what that particular one meant to her and how it helped her to trust Jesus and to know that whatever happened, her life was in His hands. She knew that He was in control of her life. She was so brave and lived life to the fullest. Even when she was so ill, she focused on the positives in her life and most of all on the goodness of God. She loved Jesus with all her heart and dearly loved her husband and two children. My heart goes out to them during this time. I know they are hurting, but they take comfort in knowing that Janelle's 9 month struggle is over now and she is with her beloved Savior. <br />
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Learning of Janelle's passing has made me think about the brevity of life. If you were to look up the word brevity in the dictionary, its primary definition would say "noun. 1. shortness of time or duration; briefness: the <b>brevity</b> of human life". And isn't that so? I Peter 1:24 says, "For all men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall." But if we read the following verse, we see that "... the word of the Lord stands forever." We are here such a short time, friends. This life is just a blimp on the radar screen, but even so I want my life to count for something. When I stand before God I want to hear Him say those words, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23). <br />
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Let's hold our loved ones close today. We aren't promised tomorrow, but praise God we are given His promise of a glad reunion day with those we love who know Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior. I so appreciate each day that the Lord has given me and will do my best with His help to live each day with gladness of heart, no matter what comes, knowing that I'm on a short journey here but my true home is in heaven. We'll experience no more pain, sorrow or separation, but will spend an eternity with Jesus and those we love. <br />
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Thank You, Jesus, that though we must say goodbye to our loved ones for a little while, we will meet them again one day soon. Help us to value each day, to remember that our time here on earth is short but we have all of eternity to look forward to with You. May we appreciate each new day and live with hearts that overflow with gratitude for You and for all Your many blessings. Be with those who have recently lost someone near and dear to them. Bring hope, healing and comfort to them and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. In Your most holy and precious Name I pray, Amen.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-24276196168712044242012-03-20T06:34:00.003-07:002012-03-20T06:49:29.568-07:00Detours<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYnII6Lx9_4F89FN5SBl1agbCLi34voJOjyiXLFpBoaUcR6wZ7DTn5l3kesy0xYwP0fUMZN_GBCexykg55EjgrcODgWe6mYPC_sc17s0UbsmWGdnWZqsUXblQqsjIDEHGJXXpb81wYA/s1600/Detour.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYnII6Lx9_4F89FN5SBl1agbCLi34voJOjyiXLFpBoaUcR6wZ7DTn5l3kesy0xYwP0fUMZN_GBCexykg55EjgrcODgWe6mYPC_sc17s0UbsmWGdnWZqsUXblQqsjIDEHGJXXpb81wYA/s320/Detour.png" width="320px" /></a></div><br />
I had a dream last night and when I woke up this morning, it was still fresh on my mind. I dreamed I was driving my car when suddenly I came upon piles of debris on every side. I knew I was witnessing the affects of a bad storm or tornado. I crept along slowly, due to the road forming a narrow pathway in the midst of all the chaos. I saw that several men were directing traffic. I remember thinking in the dream that I wanted to turn left, but was unable to do so because of all the wreckage in the streets. One of the men motioned me to keep moving forward. After a short distance, I came to another crossroads where I wanted to make a turn; this time towards the right but once again I encountered problems and was unable to make the turn. Another man pointed me in the opposite direction. And so it went until I woke up. <br />
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The first thing that occurred to me was the symbolism. Isn't this so like our lives? We have plans to do one thing, but for whatever reason, the Lord steers us in another direction. Perhaps if we'd gone the way we wanted, it would have ended in disastrous results. Just like the piles of debris I encountered in the dream, it wasn't safe for me to go the way I intended. But God knows best and graciously leads me in the right way to go. Sometimes we're required to take detours in life. But the bottom line is that as we trust our heavenly Father to guide us, we can be assured of reaching our destination. It may not be in the way we would have chosen, but it will be the better way. And isn't the journey so much more interesting! <br />
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<em>Here are a few cards I've made for Easter:</em><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqDNkoXil-MMCxgR_v_RB1BD0H0rPaaMesUEKY5-SNPr6sOksecoJxciK4cYSRm6aoSWzi5z8UBAks5nj1IdLKY_VeMqebUARmw0GuvI4TjVpua8h0397DUbwwttgMgUAvZoD5v7Yxxw/s1600/Easter2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="400px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqDNkoXil-MMCxgR_v_RB1BD0H0rPaaMesUEKY5-SNPr6sOksecoJxciK4cYSRm6aoSWzi5z8UBAks5nj1IdLKY_VeMqebUARmw0GuvI4TjVpua8h0397DUbwwttgMgUAvZoD5v7Yxxw/s400/Easter2.png" width="298px" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-47650886018318776502012-02-10T15:06:00.001-08:002012-03-20T06:58:18.548-07:00The Legacy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOiBYAD6CpYswjSML-SyJGcwlejNwVqvGd4Z01Lt1gip3n_YuxOZJjrh9N9E7t3AAiuXk2cBYD9UBFnBUSb-oAOltNbEi6XdCNwcD59FXbSi1kOllIsw9icZKrlrcsRc2TRvWBT_9nOg/s1600/NASB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOiBYAD6CpYswjSML-SyJGcwlejNwVqvGd4Z01Lt1gip3n_YuxOZJjrh9N9E7t3AAiuXk2cBYD9UBFnBUSb-oAOltNbEi6XdCNwcD59FXbSi1kOllIsw9icZKrlrcsRc2TRvWBT_9nOg/s400/NASB.jpg" width="298px" /></a></div><br />
Yesterday morning I stepped out of the elevator into our lobby in preparation for heading out for my daily walk, As I always do, I glanced to my left at the table standing against the wall. Imagine my surprise when I spotted two large stacks of Bibles setting there! People often leave books, pamphlets, small household items that they no longer want and even an occasional bag of clothing on the table, but never have I seen so many Bibles outside of a Christian bookstore at one time! They were in various sizes, most in Bible covers and there were a few books and devotionals included in the mix. Now to one who absolutely <em>loves</em> Bibles and their various translations and loves collecting them, I was in heaven! :) Though the majority of them were in Korean, I did find a New American Standard translation of the Bible in English, a book written by Joel Osteen and a very interesting resource entitled, "Discover What the Bible Says About 500 Real-Life Topics." Not having an NAS version of the Bible, I decided to keep it in addition to the other two books.<br />
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While leafing through the Study Bible, I imagined what the owner of this Bible was like. Had he or she passed away and relatives decided to leave this collection in the lobby for other tenants to pick up and take home? Had someone moved away and decided to leave many of their Bibles behind? I had serious doubts about this last option, as I couldn't imagine any believer parting with his/her Bibles willingly; at least that's how I would feel unless it was for a very unusual and good cause. I have a Bible that is coming apart at the seams, but I treasure it above all others and wouldn't give it away for anything. I'm sure there might be other reasons as to why the Bibles were left there, but I tend to think that the first case scenario might be what happened. When I opened the Joel Osteen book, there was a notation in the inside front cover that read, "Congratulations Kevin Lee! Shepherd Christian Church, Rev. Myung Hur." Perhaps Kevin won this book or it was given to him on a special occasion. I don't know for sure if this book or the other one belonged to the same person who owned the Bible, but it does seem likely. <br />
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This was written on the inside back page of the Bible:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2upTiHXjmRJGaQDNABfLv7obOE2z5uHeJbnpiJ_YZeSnORWgP1rwQq1BRua9kqjiFfgoNfNzUxD6Md27g4lD5dwtTGpq4uQrfCXd2pEC_3p1Eal1mXdcfZ0KOz5NW-We37lYW4fj0_A/s1600/NASB1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2upTiHXjmRJGaQDNABfLv7obOE2z5uHeJbnpiJ_YZeSnORWgP1rwQq1BRua9kqjiFfgoNfNzUxD6Md27g4lD5dwtTGpq4uQrfCXd2pEC_3p1Eal1mXdcfZ0KOz5NW-We37lYW4fj0_A/s400/NASB1.jpg" width="298px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Obviously, I don't read Korean, but I can't help being curious about the writing and the date. Was 1984 the year he bought the Bible, or maybe the year he was saved? I also found strips of paper in the Bible, marking various passages: Psalm 23, Matthew 4, Matthew 1:20, John 10:7 and Romans 3:10. These verses of Scripture must have had special meaning for him. Though there are no marginal or footnotes on any of the pages, I can tell this was a well read and well loved Bible. The front binding has been carefully taped where it had begun to separate. The pages are beginning to show signs of age but look as though they've often been lovingly thumbed through. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I will never know for sure who owned this Bible, but it doesn't take away from my pleasure and enjoyment of speculating and from having a new translation of the Word to read. I whispered a prayer to the Lord last night, requesting that if Kevin Lee has gone on to glory, to please let him know I have his Bible and am taking good care of it. And to tell him that someday when we meet, I'll look forward to sharing our love for Jesus as we praise and worship Him together. I have a feeling Kevin will smile when he hears this. :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><em>My latest Valentine creations: </em><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYHAdn2klpdW84PfHAcSTRroVx1qakMk3bQXTtKmQvb8EDvumdAUiOXdgZAv2oGHi93u2QJl1BSt2EADmos-Dl77OD7wRX7j1kX9s2UbVfAjeJVY7taOlLQUunaWBn1TU6mRf6KxGUyQ/s1600/ValentineCard.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="400px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYHAdn2klpdW84PfHAcSTRroVx1qakMk3bQXTtKmQvb8EDvumdAUiOXdgZAv2oGHi93u2QJl1BSt2EADmos-Dl77OD7wRX7j1kX9s2UbVfAjeJVY7taOlLQUunaWBn1TU6mRf6KxGUyQ/s400/ValentineCard.png" width="297px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-54249613639760844632012-01-24T08:59:00.000-08:002012-01-24T09:02:20.605-08:00Don't Be Afraid<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTavwD0GsBI4nCte62VraqzLtFEFlRCZQKmryrzxvTRoFpTI-5n3RsgCFu5IRvChJNaIagtk89x-5As_57ot9LH2Lb3w6hriOipF7leMYJh2bvmzk73qtWwDHfZSB625Du7mbtvV31g/s1600/GodIsThere.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTavwD0GsBI4nCte62VraqzLtFEFlRCZQKmryrzxvTRoFpTI-5n3RsgCFu5IRvChJNaIagtk89x-5As_57ot9LH2Lb3w6hriOipF7leMYJh2bvmzk73qtWwDHfZSB625Du7mbtvV31g/s1600/GodIsThere.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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I was reading from Psalm 27 this morning; it's one of my favorite psalms. How can you not like something that begins with <strong>"The LORD is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid?" </strong> (vs. 1). So many times I don't stop to think about this verse when something comes against me to upset or frighten me; I panic and begin to figure out ways to get out of a stressful situation or how to make it right in my own strength (which we all know is impossible) instead of immediately turning to Jesus for the answer. I do get there sooner or later, (smile) but I'm trying to do this right away and not give in to fear or let anxiety take over. The Lord is helping me and though I'll never completely conquer my tendency to give in to the panic or fear of the moment, if I depend upon our precious Lord to calm my spirit, take a deep breath and look to Him, I know He'll help me to overcome in any situation. And He'll do the same for you!<br />
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Thank You, Jesus for Your all consuming love for us. When we keep our eyes on You, we know that all will be well. You are our Papa God, our Abba Father, Who is concerned about every part of our lives. You don't want us to give in to those things that would take over our emotions and cause us to look for help in any other place but to You - You alone have the answers we seek and I ask that You help every one of us here today to turn towards You when we begin to doubt, to fear, to panic or are tempted to take flight. May we instead run into Your arms of safety. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.<br />
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<em>I've started making my Valentine cards this week. Here's the first one I made:</em><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh37saC20gL_fwJU69SXtWK_8AUI5gQJQ1l-oJDV8x7gEQaDDF3d1LDVkV6kSVu5Loc7tg07gNx-PRlg4ax78N0-lp_tcMAfzRb-bo2v8HzbHmYlR3Iy7jcIu5klrUh3BIionbz4Cosvw/s1600/ValentineCard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh37saC20gL_fwJU69SXtWK_8AUI5gQJQ1l-oJDV8x7gEQaDDF3d1LDVkV6kSVu5Loc7tg07gNx-PRlg4ax78N0-lp_tcMAfzRb-bo2v8HzbHmYlR3Iy7jcIu5klrUh3BIionbz4Cosvw/s400/ValentineCard.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-51708238740717184042012-01-13T06:52:00.000-08:002012-01-13T06:56:11.828-08:00Refreshing Prayer and Praise - Part II<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVGiFpzm8OM1IgMACoVIdmQTUGJYVfEv6lmH3KspPzlIG8CYYw_VBJCoJaAkDUH04wFKEKU-gjComNF-jn8cZpc9NMRC4s9NckqgODuwKq_CI2AxLTpwdrmG13JLYhkSrHiOQ80jg0Q/s1600/PrayingWoman.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVGiFpzm8OM1IgMACoVIdmQTUGJYVfEv6lmH3KspPzlIG8CYYw_VBJCoJaAkDUH04wFKEKU-gjComNF-jn8cZpc9NMRC4s9NckqgODuwKq_CI2AxLTpwdrmG13JLYhkSrHiOQ80jg0Q/s400/PrayingWoman.png" width="343px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Last time we thanked God for Who He is and for what He has done. Today, we'll look at the second prayer point:<br />
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<strong>Ask</strong> <strong>God</strong> <strong>to</strong> <strong>change</strong> <strong>things</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>our</strong> <strong>world</strong> <strong>so</strong> <strong>heaven</strong> <strong>happens</strong> <strong>here</strong> <strong>on</strong> <strong>earth</strong>. "Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." (vs. 10). Note: Just a reminder that these prayer points come from Pastor Scott Bauer's article entitled "An Hour of Prayer - How Do You Do That?" (I wouldn't want to take credit for something I didn't compose!) The expansion of the points is all mine, however. <br />
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The first thing we should do is pray for our family members by name and ask God to bless each one. There are so many ways to pray for our families - prayers for salvation, healing, breaking of bondages, deliverance, needs to be met, etc. Sometimes I've prayed general prayers for all my family members, but whenever possible, I like to name each one. When I do this, I feel connected to them as individuals and can focus specifically on what they need. I feel closer to them after having prayed for precise needs in their lives. I like to close my prayers by asking God to make His love and presence felt by each one. <br />
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Pray for your church and pastors. This is so important! We've been going through a time of transition in my church and have been without a senior pastor for over a year. Last Sunday morning, a new lead pastor was announced to our congregation. Pastor Ricky will be traveling between our church and his other church in Savannah, GA. Because of his frequent flying, I am asking God to give him His supernatural strength, in addition to laying messages on his heart that the Lord wants him to share with all of us. I pray that many will be drawn to Jesus and saved as they hear the Word spoken each week. I pray that our church will continue to love, worship, obey and honor our Lord Jesus Christ and that we will continue to spread the gospel each week to the lost and hurting. <br />
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Pray for your place of employment, school and neighborhood. I've been retired for 4 years now and since I'm no longer working, my prayer focus is on my neighborhood and my apartment community. I enjoy prayer walking in the mornings and asking the Lord to bless each home that I pass by. I pray that wherever my feet shall tread will see many brought to Christ.<br />
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Pray for the city where you live. (Jeremiah 29:7). I like to begin with prayer for the mayor, city council, chief of police, fire chief, emergency workers and all those involved in public service. I pray for salvation for every man, woman, boy and girl in the city of Los Angeles and that God's peace cover and surround us. And in recent years, I've begun praying for protection for our city from terrorists and any plan of destruction thought up by the evil one. I thank our heavenly Father that His hand of mercy is upon us and that all that the enemy would like to bring against us has been thwarted. <br />
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Pray for the nation. Let's keep our president, his advisors, our men and women of congress, and all those who lead and are in authority in our nation, in prayer. I pray that as we stand in the gap for our country we will begin to see a turning back to God, with repentance and resolve to follow Him. May God continue to bless this great nation, under Him!<br />
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<em>Well, I haven't made any new cards in a few weeks (I hope to correct that very soon!), but I'll share another tea pot with you. </em><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLqyEFgwaZs6CLp_ezNHH1BCJ9umJkEPjBZCTYun2LWvtKNUr1v2TvvPn2k70OZ0L2OLJj6YSmI0aeaA5_QWtjXxxvOSWSmggTsi0LV2VNux20r7GkfVPQnMCVJtxJv3_rJtj1EC_tUQ/s1600/Teapot1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300px" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLqyEFgwaZs6CLp_ezNHH1BCJ9umJkEPjBZCTYun2LWvtKNUr1v2TvvPn2k70OZ0L2OLJj6YSmI0aeaA5_QWtjXxxvOSWSmggTsi0LV2VNux20r7GkfVPQnMCVJtxJv3_rJtj1EC_tUQ/s400/Teapot1.jpg" width="400px" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-12957447480337096022012-01-09T16:00:00.000-08:002012-01-17T20:42:46.373-08:00Refreshing Prayer and Praise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPUIrpkgUzb9Z7DwlYnFyo8Qr_o3QSfyLqPbH6evaCvmrx6IkkuOYbChvXtLEJ-vkLLbJy1pEE3_dWp6GYA7wZwi-vJHAN4JGZ0NqPY7gVxUd3I0pFl-_kT53fjalbRiZDqswQpNPvDw/s1600/praying.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPUIrpkgUzb9Z7DwlYnFyo8Qr_o3QSfyLqPbH6evaCvmrx6IkkuOYbChvXtLEJ-vkLLbJy1pEE3_dWp6GYA7wZwi-vJHAN4JGZ0NqPY7gVxUd3I0pFl-_kT53fjalbRiZDqswQpNPvDw/s1600/praying.jpg" /></a></div>Some years ago my beloved pastor, Scott Bauer, (who went home to be with the Lord in 2003) wrote an in-depth prayer guide entitled "An Hour of Prayer - How Do You Do That?" I had tucked it away in another Bible I have and hadn't used it in some time. A couple of days ago I decided to begin using my favorite Bible again after having used another translation for the past few months. The guide was in the pocket of the inside front cover of my Bible and I was delighted to come across it again. I decided to use it during this first month of the New Year to refresh my prayer time and to reacquaint myself with some of the guidelines that Pastor Scott wrote about. The prayer guide is basically a breakdown of the Lord's Prayer found in Matthew 6:9-13. I'd like to share these 7 special points with you over the next several weeks.<br />
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First, <strong>"Praise God for Who He is and what He has done</strong>." <em>"Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Your name"</em> (vs. 9). I feel I can praise Jesus best by reviewing all He has done for me in previous months and years. This always keeps me encouraged as I thank Him for all the many answers to prayer I've received, but I especially need to thank Him for precise things He has done for me. I can think of so many! I'm thankful for a loving husband and family, good friends, a wonderful church/church family, a warm and cozy home, food on the table, clothes on my back, good medical providers who help me by caring about my health and well being, a beautiful area in which to live that encompasses ocean, desert, forests and mountains - all nearby or within driving distance. Obviously, I'm most thankful for salvation and the joy that freedom in Christ brings. My list goes on and on, as I'm sure yours would, too. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQUluqfSKYU_unMwddBowOLQAIZjPiSNBYJsHcc7q2sCusEMe5N3h68QLG2t659EHaJ5H1J0LOTSSGX5GGcmlceOqQk1hdqfXEV_RH-AQBHol0XL99hILDV027bqClaMpQpZWxO7hrag/s1600/pink-flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="107" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQUluqfSKYU_unMwddBowOLQAIZjPiSNBYJsHcc7q2sCusEMe5N3h68QLG2t659EHaJ5H1J0LOTSSGX5GGcmlceOqQk1hdqfXEV_RH-AQBHol0XL99hILDV027bqClaMpQpZWxO7hrag/s400/pink-flowers.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I like to think about recent answers to prayer that the Lord has provided. I love to thank Him for the answers to small but important requests that come quickly. Our laptop wasn't working last night, so I prayed that the Lord would give us wisdom in discovering what the problem was and how to correct it. He did and it was a very simple solution! Yes, we could have taken our computer to the local Geek Squad, but I always believe in going to God first for our every need. And aren't we often surprised when the answers come so quickly? It's at times like these that I love to praise and thank Him for being right on time! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Have you ever praised God by some of the many names He's known as in His Word? I like Jehovah-Rapha, "God our Healer." Another favorite: Jehovah-Jireh, "God our Provider." He is the Anointed One, The Ancient of Days, The Bread of Life and the Bright and Morning Star, among other glorious descriptions. <br />
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Next time I'll be focusing on the second line of the Lord's Prayer, "Your kingdom come, Your will be done..." Please join me in thinking of new ways to thank and honor our King. Let's fill our homes with prayer and praise in 2012! <br />
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<em>A pretty tea pot from a friend. The inscription reads: "Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him." Psalm 37:7. The tea pot is from the DaySpring collection.</em><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSX-mRkKjlyDEh8nFhuPliB542nOBVJ5ST4elarVjviI2Zq8nVRx5hxh8EM9KB6Mel_shv8KseZrGYjYcZREDGLYnq5B2zew7gDBgQHyZLeZVRMt1M7mBNdy2h-WsmkX2AVsv5slDDSw/s1600/Teapot6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSX-mRkKjlyDEh8nFhuPliB542nOBVJ5ST4elarVjviI2Zq8nVRx5hxh8EM9KB6Mel_shv8KseZrGYjYcZREDGLYnq5B2zew7gDBgQHyZLeZVRMt1M7mBNdy2h-WsmkX2AVsv5slDDSw/s400/Teapot6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-51343759634008165192012-01-05T08:09:00.000-08:002012-01-05T08:22:01.539-08:00Breaking New Ground<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGCm4P2dVEvMA3zf_62rZ8fxtZY5Tni4O9wxup-Lm-hLxJifeFccNflJtt22NikAvMrlnUBQkG9vP_25tReWPwqrSkLHKxMMx7Ejvj8p-302fCKeY9sWxcc06CGkXvrjcrAZFntTxxg/s1600/BreakingGround.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266px" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGCm4P2dVEvMA3zf_62rZ8fxtZY5Tni4O9wxup-Lm-hLxJifeFccNflJtt22NikAvMrlnUBQkG9vP_25tReWPwqrSkLHKxMMx7Ejvj8p-302fCKeY9sWxcc06CGkXvrjcrAZFntTxxg/s400/BreakingGround.png" width="400px" /></a></div><br />
Every year at the end of December, the leadership in my church chooses a new name or theme for the coming year. Last year was "The Year of Advancement", and in 2010 we had "The Year of Prophecy". This has been ongoing for many years. I always eagerly await to hear what each new year will be called and accept it as a prophetic word for myself as well as for our congregation.<br />
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I was especially pleased when it was announced that this year's theme would be "The Year of Breaking New Ground." The Scripture behind this theme is found in Hosea 10:12, "Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground, for <i>it is</i> time to seek the LORD, till He comes and rains righteousness on you." How hope-filled and anticipatory that sounds; I envision all kinds of possibilities for ground breaking!<br />
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A quote from my pastor: "If we become satisfied with where we are in God and cease to pursue a deeper relationship with Him, we then have need of breaking new ground. As Hosea 10:12 states, when we break up our fallow ground, we will find a fresh work of God in our lives, "until He comes and rains righteousness" on us as a result."<br />
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Did you know that the word fallow means, "plowed but left unseeded during a growing season"? In order to break new ground, I need to begin planting seeds of all kinds. And there are some things I need to leave behind me as I move forward into 2012. I think the most important one for me that needs to go is <em>worries</em>. How often have I fretted and turned problems over and over in my mind, knowing I should be giving them to the Lord, whose shoulders are bigger and who is well able to carry them? And when I do give them to Him, it often seems like it isn't long before I'm taking them back! There will always be "stuff" cropping up to upset or unbalance our daily lives if we let them, but I want to begin this new year with a fresh determination to give all my burdens to Him, NOT taking them back, but letting Jesus be in full control of my life.<br />
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I like the portion of the verse in Hosea that speaks about it being time to seek the Lord. That struck such a deep chord in my heart! I want so much more of my heavenly Father this year ~ a closer walk, a deeper commitment in prayer, sweet communion, waiting on His "still small voice" and being willing to obey whatever He tells me to do. <br />
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I'm still compiling my list and will probably be sharing more "ground breaking" (sorry, I couldn't resist!) thoughts and hopes for 2012. I hope you'll be making your own list, too!<br />
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<em>Here's a tea cup and saucer that are very precious to me. They were given to me in the mid-1990's by my friend Trudy:</em><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7Mi5SSjG-eX2ApBnwwxGTtKHg0JRLDsBQHaQ0jRMRy4D-eo9dK7YF6X4uXKz5p0TfGy2XfKOiFrlIBuykp7p6-zpsMiforggSi78Sb8K4OEaaVP10CI2sOEQf1QGk1LVIF7dtyELZg/s1600/Teacup2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300px" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7Mi5SSjG-eX2ApBnwwxGTtKHg0JRLDsBQHaQ0jRMRy4D-eo9dK7YF6X4uXKz5p0TfGy2XfKOiFrlIBuykp7p6-zpsMiforggSi78Sb8K4OEaaVP10CI2sOEQf1QGk1LVIF7dtyELZg/s400/Teacup2.jpg" width="400px" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-13579630242703125352012-01-04T21:22:00.000-08:002012-01-05T06:46:57.532-08:00My New Tea Pot!I just had to share my new tea pot with all of you. This was a Christmas present from my dear friend, Barb. I was so delighted when I opened the box and discovered that she had sent me a tea pot (thank you, Barb)!<br />
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It was designed by Sandy Clough and is called "Love Among the Roses." Inscribed on the lid in gold lettering is the verse from 1 Corinthians 13:13, "The greatest of these is love." <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh35MawRgYuzu826z9nRWOw5jpqGjg2EBspI9LkDxZCluv3_XFsWqGPFOqUmMTbj8Icg0smH_kCXv6uoKELrYYe1T6Y2zvnhDM27bUMkX_gcQqVf2tuBq5eW29cS-1rA0EpHz6ri2_tzg/s1600/Teapot8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh35MawRgYuzu826z9nRWOw5jpqGjg2EBspI9LkDxZCluv3_XFsWqGPFOqUmMTbj8Icg0smH_kCXv6uoKELrYYe1T6Y2zvnhDM27bUMkX_gcQqVf2tuBq5eW29cS-1rA0EpHz6ri2_tzg/s400/Teapot8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>And while I'm sharing the tea pot photo, I'll add a pic of one of my New Year's cards:</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-55992230189418795412012-01-03T14:37:00.000-08:002012-01-03T14:40:22.089-08:00Hollywood's Golden Age of Television<em><strong>This is an entry I wrote in November, 2009 as part of a Round Robin letter. I thought I would share it here. </strong></em><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitA3XZBqI0cxtWf2EXuFwVEO-IFeCYS97Sgkihkujx-lPx8m6D54WTBDxJf6TnSFLymuEiynX9wlkmZkyYDoK5HvpyZxP2OUIuqAz_sp0Y27Fphd5V3VVejNI02ibd8uy7FfXYOwK1hg/s1600/Lucy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitA3XZBqI0cxtWf2EXuFwVEO-IFeCYS97Sgkihkujx-lPx8m6D54WTBDxJf6TnSFLymuEiynX9wlkmZkyYDoK5HvpyZxP2OUIuqAz_sp0Y27Fphd5V3VVejNI02ibd8uy7FfXYOwK1hg/s1600/Lucy.png" /></a></div>Today I’m “goin’ Hollywood.” No, not literally, but you can’t live in the film capitol of the world for 36 years and not be influenced by it to some degree. Watching old episodes of “I Love Lucy” recently has made me feel very nostalgic for the golden years. <br />
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I Love Lucy was the first adult TV program I remember watching when I was only 3 years old. We lived on Kentucky street in Joplin, MO in an upstairs apt. ~ just mom, dad and me. It would be 2 more years before my sister Ellen would join us. I had a little brown rocker that I used to sit in when I watched television and I can remember my favorite shows being Howdy Doody, Captain Kangaroo and I Love Lucy. :) <br />
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In a few short years, my favorite TV programs (in addition to Lucy) would be Andy Griffith and Dick Van Dyke. Growing up in a small town in the Midwest, I little dreamed that one day I would not only live in Los Angeles where these shows were taped, but would also on a regular basis be driving by the studio where they were filmed! My route to church every Sunday and during mid-week takes me on Cahuenga Blvd., right in front of the former home of Desilu Studios. Since 1974, the studio has been known as Ren-Mar and has been home to such shows as the Golden Girls and Seinfeld, among others. It’s a very strange feeling to drive by this “laugh factory” and think about all the great comedies that have been made there and that have brought such pleasure to so many people through the years. I sometimes imagine I can hear the laughter echoing across the sound stages, drifting past the guard at the front gate and passing down Cahuenga Blvd. There’s a sad sound to it of days long gone, but not for long ~ after all, I can always pop one of my Lucy, Andy or Dick Van Dyke DVDs into the player and relive them all over again. <br />
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I’ve met several interesting people in years past who have connections to Hollywood. The first one who comes to mind is Linda Wilson. I met her through our prayerline ~ she lived in Raleigh, NC and was a news anchor at a local station there. She came to L.A. for a brief time to work on a Billy Graham movie. She’d had experience as a producer and was working as an assistant on the film. I didn’t get to meet her in person then, but she later moved here and began attending my church. She would tell me of projects she had going, always trying to get a foot in the door but never quite making it. You see, being in her mid-40’s at the time, she was past the age Hollywood deemed acceptable for a woman to be of any importance in the industry. She later wrote for a couple of women’s magazines and did other assorted projects, but after a few years she and her husband moved to Ohio to assist family members who were going through some difficult times. <br />
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I met Rita in a prayer circle a couple of years ago. She was a costume designer who was out of work. I asked her a few questions about her job which she readily answered. I thought how glamorous it must be to have such an exciting career ~ on the downside, I’m sure it’s lots of hard work and having to be under constant deadlines would be major stress ~ but still, all I can envision is MGM, musicals and all those fabulous costumes!! <br />
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Well, I am going to put this topic to rest now and move on. After all, I don’t want to run a good thing into the ground! Let me leave you with this old photograph I came across on an Internet site showing fans lined up waiting to watch a live taping of the I Love Lucy show. I wonder which classic episode they were going to see filmed and if they had even an inkling that what they were about to view would one day become television history? I had to smile when I saw the older ladies’ shoes. I had flashbacks of my grandmother wearing those same shoes during the 1950’s. :) <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIkoYpWwEhq4MJrJX1ZN17eXchU4bhvky9Ir-nGLFOQ3i5iYtSfW7q72p1kQZG2PNd5u03WQsKE0aKWUajH25rJtireDsFKQmCXLGVIR571XMDTM9nXBJj_emQ5QBRqGjHwntFn2biGw/s1600/ILoveLucy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253px" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIkoYpWwEhq4MJrJX1ZN17eXchU4bhvky9Ir-nGLFOQ3i5iYtSfW7q72p1kQZG2PNd5u03WQsKE0aKWUajH25rJtireDsFKQmCXLGVIR571XMDTM9nXBJj_emQ5QBRqGjHwntFn2biGw/s400/ILoveLucy.png" width="400px" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<strong>Fans line up along Romaine Street to attend a</strong><br />
<strong>filming of "I Love Lucy." </strong></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-59503606444844721142012-01-02T10:18:00.000-08:002012-01-02T10:25:40.682-08:00Titus 2 Women<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIbEUaYcDOA9jnbxCyDdBDGSgQ3manLGQlWpKl7aq2JabMb0CesdICApqWDxAN78w-pepCLpgELYjmEITOc0fPfN9rtb7p1KeJWwzMtI3uOWog77SiyNpGLW5lqDMz6cI3DPldGlwQ1w/s1600/MomNMe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIbEUaYcDOA9jnbxCyDdBDGSgQ3manLGQlWpKl7aq2JabMb0CesdICApqWDxAN78w-pepCLpgELYjmEITOc0fPfN9rtb7p1KeJWwzMtI3uOWog77SiyNpGLW5lqDMz6cI3DPldGlwQ1w/s400/MomNMe.jpg" width="260" /></a></div><br />
<em><strong>This post is somewhat similar to one I wrote and added here this past October, but different enough that I wanted to share it with you. It was originally written on December 19, 2009:</strong></em><br />
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<div>I have been thinking about the women in my family who’ve had such a great influence on me in my spiritual development and walk with the Lord. I’m sure we all have those special women of God in our lives, whether a relative or maybe an older woman we’ve known who has helped shape us spiritually. My mother comes to mind most of all. After all these years, I’m still learning new things about her! I didn’t find out until a couple of years ago that when I was about 3 years old (picture above is of Mom and me, circa 1954) she, my dad, my grandmother and Aunt Cliffie (with me tagging along, of course!) would go to the jail in Fayetteville, AR on Sunday afternoons and Mom would hold a service for the incarcerated men. She would begin with praise and worship, then bring a short message of some kind that would always include hope and the love of Jesus for each one. Mom was greatly influenced by the Bible college she attended in Cincinnati, OH. It was a wonderful school who, in the last century, hosted the great Oswald Chambers as a special guest lecturer for a short time. One of the things Mom and her friends did on a regular basis was hold street meetings. They were led by a preacher from the school named Bro. Jeffers, who my mom and her friend Martha (my godmother) still admire and speak of to this day.<br />
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My grandmother was another wonderful lady who was a living example of Jesus to me. She daily exhibited the sweet presence of the Holy Spirit living in her. She grew up in the mountains of Arkansas where church services were few and far between in those pioneer days, but at the age of 17 she sensed the Lord wooing her and was saved one night as she knelt by her bedside.<br />
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There have been other women in my family who have left their spiritual mark on me ~ my Aunt Joy, cousin Jewel, among others but it would take up too much time and space to write about them all. They’ve all been Titus II women to me. May God bless each one. Some are in heaven now and when I get there someday I want to have a long talk with each one to tell them how much I love and appreciate them and that I wouldn't be the woman I am today if it hadn't been for them.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4G49Ret1v7bjI9bb3qJ8QWXqliX6TtISjVlwX6G36zLQxK7T0jKWD9OkA3zDAECqzqQwBJ0o4FRPo53k5O0wwQZEnvDaxAgZI3qR16x0nJ1gTFxWo5vzXKHziIMJI-1rrdl1vkEvz5w/s1600/Teapot3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4G49Ret1v7bjI9bb3qJ8QWXqliX6TtISjVlwX6G36zLQxK7T0jKWD9OkA3zDAECqzqQwBJ0o4FRPo53k5O0wwQZEnvDaxAgZI3qR16x0nJ1gTFxWo5vzXKHziIMJI-1rrdl1vkEvz5w/s400/Teapot3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><em><strong>This is the first teapot that was given to me, back in 1997 as a BD present from my friend, Alice. It is simple, but elegant.</strong></em></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-65029275281122041132011-12-31T15:45:00.000-08:002011-12-31T16:11:25.014-08:00Happy New Year 2012!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0v23z-J3TfQBN58QyR5Sua0amHzMXnf7g5GEf2Ab8MiodFuTjnkgNiHZLavKYk7g3Jdgyt0EtRc4e2iILJFwpkfjw2xAfvOrwOtw-YZ3LX2mQUl0c0_cA-vsDAHcEOqxFKAZnJebBhQ/s1600/beautifulgirlspinkflowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0v23z-J3TfQBN58QyR5Sua0amHzMXnf7g5GEf2Ab8MiodFuTjnkgNiHZLavKYk7g3Jdgyt0EtRc4e2iILJFwpkfjw2xAfvOrwOtw-YZ3LX2mQUl0c0_cA-vsDAHcEOqxFKAZnJebBhQ/s640/beautifulgirlspinkflowers.jpg" width="412" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">In The New Year</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: black;">In the New Year,<br />
we wish you the best year you’ve ever had,<br />
and that each New Year<br />
will be better than the last.<br />
May you realize your fondest dreams<br />
and take time to recognize and enjoy<br />
each and every blessing.</span></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: black;">Happy New Year,<br />
And many more!</span></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">By Joanna Fuchs</span></i><span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>To all my family and friends ~ wishing everyone a very Happy New Year. May God's grace be poured out in abundance on you and may this year bring you closer to Him and to each other. Praying that you'll be richly blessed in the coming year ~ looking forward to sharing it with all of you! </strong></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-88755341675529080772011-12-31T07:49:00.000-08:002012-01-05T06:46:12.525-08:00On Loan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0NOSAzSjhI06cLB__ntRjOpsJJv1hjK-N0uwawsiyDvNl3l9Qz1tZTdDMIrz37WZWUykH-Dd7vY9aZR-4gC3M1F-UVpkPl4vuLfVshIO54w_lPrGKGFMvuZ_Ysw-6es4OwuSK3G6TFQ/s1600/Ellensbracelet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0NOSAzSjhI06cLB__ntRjOpsJJv1hjK-N0uwawsiyDvNl3l9Qz1tZTdDMIrz37WZWUykH-Dd7vY9aZR-4gC3M1F-UVpkPl4vuLfVshIO54w_lPrGKGFMvuZ_Ysw-6es4OwuSK3G6TFQ/s400/Ellensbracelet.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<em>Originally posted on August 12, 2011:</em><br />
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Today would have been my sister Ellen's 55th BD. We lost her last month after a long and courageous struggle with cancer. I think about her every day and it still seems unreal that she's gone. We weren't always close, but the last year of her life we did connect in a deeper way and talked about how we regretted the many years when we didn't see much of each other. It's not as though we had a disagreement or misunderstanding of any kind; it's just that I only make it home once a year and there isn't much time to spend together. Two weeks go by quickly and Ellen worked long hours at her job. She and her husband Don were raising three of their grandkids and between work and the kids, she didn't have time for much else. Regretfully, we would go for long periods of time without calling each other. A year ago May when Ellen was in the hospital having radiation treatments, we had some of our first "real" conversations in years. Something good came out of this terrible illness; Ellen and I were truly sisters again and we vowed to keep in touch from then on. We did and even towards the end of her life, she would tell me how much she loved me and how much she appreciated my prayers.<br />
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After her death and on the evening of her viewing, my sister Jackie came to me with a small box and told me it was a gift from Ellen. She had asked Jackie to give it to me after she was gone. I opened the box and found a beautiful bracelet with garnet colored stones. Jackie said it was one of Ellen's favorite bracelets; she had chosen it herself and wanted me to have it. Jackie remembered the day when ElIen selected it from her jewelry box. I couldn't contain my tears as I looked at this special gift. All I could think about was that as she was dying, she was thinking about me and what she could give me as a special rememberance of her. What an incredible gift! It touched me very deeply but even looking at the bracelet was so painful in light of her just having died, I couldn't put it on until this past Sunday when I wore it to church. I showed it to a few friends and told them the story of how Ellen had wanted me to have something of hers. They were touched and inspired by the story.<br />
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A couple of days after Ellen's funeral, my mom, sisters and I were talking and Mom said how good the Lord was to let us have Ellen for 54 years. I had never thought of it in that way, in terms of the number of years that were granted to Ellen and to our family, but Mom was right. When Ellen and her twin sister, Teresa were born they were several weeks premature. Teresa lived only a few hours after birth and Ellen almost lost her fight for life, too. She was so tiny that my dad nicknamed her "Shoebox" (she was almost small enough to fit in one) and to the best of my memory, the name stuck through her grade school years. It is an incredibly beaurtiful way to look at Ellen's life ~ she was "on loan" and how thankful we are to have had her for those 54 years. <br />
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Ellen, you've earned your crown of life.* Rest in the loving arms of Jesus and I'll see you again. I love you.<br />
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<em>*Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. James 1:12</em>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-67908607912610545862011-12-30T06:21:00.000-08:002011-12-31T15:49:35.027-08:00The Fragility of Life<em>This was originally posted December 17, 2009:</em><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm3EH_i5EAi4-Zm14i-3dwChLmW9vBkWSBI7Tz7JDT-K9Yp4NnCSx3s9CYv_CTmmviaU32uXTtkysIBRbQLAd_4Og6KQjERbG7QmMmsKVlWRTit4io8SuGJ7onIy5CiIWd3cU2E3MN8w/s1600/Saved+by+Jesus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm3EH_i5EAi4-Zm14i-3dwChLmW9vBkWSBI7Tz7JDT-K9Yp4NnCSx3s9CYv_CTmmviaU32uXTtkysIBRbQLAd_4Og6KQjERbG7QmMmsKVlWRTit4io8SuGJ7onIy5CiIWd3cU2E3MN8w/s200/Saved+by+Jesus.jpg" width="161" /></a></div><div>Carol Ann passed away yesterday. I didn't know her very well, in fact I'd only met her twice at the new home group Craig and I are now a part of. We had just seen her at our group traditional Thanksgiving dinner last month. She had fallen at church on Sunday, December 6th and an ambulance was called, but she refused to go to the hospital saying she was okay. Later that day she was in a car wreck and ended up in a coma and on life support. It seems she had struck her head when she fell earlier in the day and this caused her to black out while driving. We received an email last night saying she had gone home to be with the Lord. I was so sorry to hear of her passing, but as always when someone knows Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior, I am happy that she's now with Him in glory. I can't help reflecting on how fragile life is. Little did we know that the last time we saw Carol Ann would be only a few short weeks ago and before the next meeting she would be with Jesus, seeing Him face to face. Thinking on that causes me to shout in my spirit, "Glory to God!" Just think of it. Finally seeing the One in person who died for us, who shed His precious blood for us. Praise His Name! I think it's always good to remember how short life is and how important it is for us to be ready to go at any time. Psalm 103:15-16 says "As for man, his days are like grass; As a flower of the field, so he flourishes. For the wind passes over it, and it is gone. And its place remembers it no more." Knowing this, my prayer is that I will always be kind, generous, patient and loving toward all those I encounter.<br />
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<em>Here's the cute little ceramic tea cannister I received for Christmas:</em><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcNdcEa54RYT7kdb0XaGjq0POtCqhN329prIPgXkiCHeDgfIudUDgiTMaxTrN4cMr_tjRHIwGVZY1Km00zU0-Tz6I6Z7Pa4ECk-lYQajQW1dh1Zb_2gWoOz4-MvNAOx4AQZYPGrFTdw/s1600/RoosterTeaCannister.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcNdcEa54RYT7kdb0XaGjq0POtCqhN329prIPgXkiCHeDgfIudUDgiTMaxTrN4cMr_tjRHIwGVZY1Km00zU0-Tz6I6Z7Pa4ECk-lYQajQW1dh1Zb_2gWoOz4-MvNAOx4AQZYPGrFTdw/s400/RoosterTeaCannister.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17096272273603005242noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4508730845193149457.post-72756006968933135842011-12-29T14:46:00.000-08:002011-12-29T17:20:51.705-08:00My Worn, Precious Bible<em>For the next few days, I'd like to share several entries from my previous blog with you. Here is the first one, about " my worn, precious Bible." </em><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJZpxoVQc3eDl2FXjzPQTMhSJ9e6IwjNRO1SxsGtXmtPjAsbgSmyf5oUZ85ZbtpVX5aVSt2NA32NyKtnujwElM2QNgSqg3yssNcuM4jZfZ5MsqG03AhI2mjPEPAe27c57H5w64ea-iA/s1600/Praying+Hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJZpxoVQc3eDl2FXjzPQTMhSJ9e6IwjNRO1SxsGtXmtPjAsbgSmyf5oUZ85ZbtpVX5aVSt2NA32NyKtnujwElM2QNgSqg3yssNcuM4jZfZ5MsqG03AhI2mjPEPAe27c57H5w64ea-iA/s1600/Praying+Hands.jpg" /></a></div>The following portion of text is from my Beth Moore Esther Bible Study workbook. I immediately identified with what Patricia Raybon said about her Bible and what it means to her, how it comforts her and its preciousness to her. I've never heard it expressed so exquisitely! I have done all those things she mentions with my own precious Bible ~ in my case, it is worn, been pasted together twice (maybe three times) and loved beyond measure. I have several Bibles, but my NKJV Spirit Filled Life Bible is my favorite and most cherished of them all. I've written important dates in the front of it such as my day of salvation, baptism, family "Homegoings" and the day in 2003 when our beloved Pastor Scott Bauer suddenly went home to be with the Lord, the day I joined my wonderful church, and other dates I want to remember. I have special verses underlined, notes written in the margin, dates of healing and promises from God written next to scripture, etc. I'm sure you have these kind of things written in your Bible, too. Such precious memories and promises of hope. Doesn't it give you a warm and special feeling thinking of these times of communion and fellowship with Jesus and how He's seen you through everything in your life?<br />
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"Author Patricia Raybon described a time when she sought the presence of God in a hospital chapel while her husband underwent life-and-death surgery. 'I picked up a Bible. I waited for that nice rush that comes from holding a worn, loved copy of the Scriptures. Bibles like that have their own heat. They've been prayed over, cried on, sung with, stroked and gripped and loved so hard they just emote - just by being touched - that human loam and steam and hope that faith gives off.' ...Glance over at your Bible. Think what you've been through with God in those pages... Think of the hope, guidance, assurance and affection you've sought. Think how thankful you are that God wrote something you can hold to your chest, rocking back and forth, when your heart is shattered and your sight too blurred to read. Every Bible is the Word of God, but with no ears to hear it, hearts to love it, or hands to warm themselves by the fire of it, man is tragically lost to it." (BM)<br />
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<em>Here's a card I just made to "bless" someone in the New Year. My prayer is that each of you will be blessed in 2012!</em><br />
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