GloreyBHere

365.149

2012-01-17T06:11:00.002-04:00

Blog will be hit and miss until April. I am working on courses/ministerial studies that eat a lot of my down time and I need to focus on those for the time being.

Matthew 7:7-8 Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

(Thanks Tracy, I had momentarily forgotten.)

Hebrews 12:14-15 Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.

Duly noted :)

365.148

2012-01-16T09:46:00.003-04:00

2 Kings 2:10 "you have asked a difficult thing," Elijah said, "yet if you see me when I am taken from you, it will be yours - otherwise, it will not."

Yup, I have asked a difficult thing - but I have asked. So my hope is that my request is focused on and that it is granted favour. Having said that, I will rest in that I have done all I can, now it is totally out of my hands and into God's - ultimately it is his doing one way or the other.

365.147

2012-01-14T16:52:00.001-04:00

Seems like so much could be done with this little building....It is a shame that it is in such disrepair. Located in Souris. I think the graveyard etc. is about 200 years old.

365.146

2012-01-13T07:05:00.001-04:00

Hard to ignore the storms that lots of people are experiencing....my thoughts today turn to simple words of encouragement a friend reminded me of this week and that originate with Dory, a sweet little (I think menopausal) fish who was an all-out encourager:

"Just keep swimming, just keep swimming."

365.145

2012-01-12T08:32:00.003-04:00

I was reading this morning, and this verse popped out, so it is one I will explore a bit. Joshua 1:13 "Remember what Moses the Lord's servant commanded you. The Lord your God is giving you a place to settle and is handing this land over to you."

It struck me as I read it that we all need a place to settle, a place to rest, a place where we are determined to make it home - physically, emotionally, and spiritually. We need to settle our position, our boundaries, and who we are in Christ.

It is when we are settled physically in our position, (namely the "land" that God has given me and I will not apologize or explain it away) that we can focus our resources, gifts, abilities on the tasks at hand. You have tasks, I have them. I can't tell you what yours is and you are better off not to tell me what mine is. It is God's voice that both of us need to be attuned. Once we recognize and claim the land that is ours we can properly focus on tilling up the soil and planting good crops that will yield a hundred fold.

To settle emotionally is to come to terms with who you are and what your value is according to God. From the little bit of research I did, I found that our bodies are actually worth about $4.50 in today's market - every one of us, whether we be kings or peasants. But not in God's book. In God's eyes, we are priceless. If you stop and think about it, you were designed to live right now, at this exact time in history, and are part of the chain linking one generation to the next.

When one "knows that they know" this and simply accepts it as the way it is, then a confidence comes that has nothing to do with skill, gifting, or ability, and you will find yourself able to set healthy boundaries in your life. The opinions and validation of others will not matter as much. You will serve others because you choose to, not because you are a door mat or are constantly bullied or guilted into doing someone else's will.

When the knowledge that you are totally encompassed by God's love, never to be forgotten, makes that long, 12-inch desert journey from your head to your heart, you will find you are settled spiritually. It is a journey where, one by one, the things that really don't matter start to fall away and lose their value until you find yourself anticipatory walking toward the One waiting; the One that has been waiting your whole lifetime for you to walk toward him and with him. You will be less concerned what everyone else is doing because you will be determined "as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" - however that looks in your life.

Which comes to the last point. Settled doesn't mean settle. God has a good plan for you and he does not want you to settle for anything less. Neither do I. If you have asked yourself the question, "Is this all there is?" I challenge you to start seeking, but seek in the right place. Jer 29:3 You will seek me and find me when you seek with all your heart.

I don't want to live in the land of barely enough, but in the land of plenty where I and others around me feel loved, honoured, cared for, blessed, and content. Where healthy lives are the norm. Don't you?

365.144

2012-01-11T06:37:00.004-04:00

Daisy oh Daisy

Mid Summer's song

The red dust stirs

And days are long

Grown helter skelter

Yellow delights

The fields are golden

A beautiful sight

"Poor person's" flowers

Spotted on the way

Pick 'em at random

To brighten your day

365.143

2012-01-10T06:25:00.005-04:00

Stuff. Stuff in your way. Pushing stuff out of your way. Moving stuff. Are you tired of stuff? Do you feel dust bunnies calling to you from your closets and cupboards, threatening to overtake you because you are not dealing with some things that need a good dusting?

January is a great time of year to clean house, physically and spiritually. A few good things are much more noticeable and appreciated when they aren't surrounded by so much clutter that a) you can't get to them to give them proper care and attention, and b) there are so many things surrounding those good things that you find it hard to focus on the beauty of what is really there.

Such is life.
Are you feeling cluttered?
Anxious?
Overwhelmed?
Don't know which way to turn?

Look around you. Gauge your anxiety levels - on a scale of 1 to 10 where are you? Anything over a 5 and chances are you are trying to fit too many things into your schedule. Or, you are avoiding attacking those dust bunnies because you think that somehow they will take a hike on their own. Unfortunately, that likely won't happen - left on their own and neglected, they simply multiply. Exponentially.

Take a step back and honestly ask yourself, what can go? What can be put off until another season? What things in my life right now needs to be a priority? (Not, what feels like a priority - BIG difference!)
If you have too much stuff around you it creates chaos and that ends up being transformed into a whole lot of dust bunnies you really don't want - anger, shutting others out, avoidance, etc. - characteristics that have great potential in sucking every bit of joy from you.

So the mantra of 2012 is "Say NO to dust bunnies!"

Work on stepping back a bit so that you can see the overall picture and rearrange your stuff, give everything a good cleaning (you might need help - that is OK) so that you can see clearly, appreciate what you do have, and remind yourself who you really are. (This is where the phrase "I am wonderfully and beautifully created" fits perfectly).

Taking these steps will go a long way to ensuring that this year is way gooder.

1 Sam 2:8 He lifts the poor from the dust and the needy from the garbage dump. He sets them among princes, placing them in seats of honour. For all the earth is the Lord's, and he has set the world in order.

365.142

2012-01-09T18:48:00.003-04:00

Fall, 1962. This is a picture of my husband being held by his brother Dukie who was about 16 at the time. So happy 50th birthday today to Gingher! How did this happen, the years passing so quickly?

I have known my husband since I was a 15 year old, all over the place and up and down teenager. I often look at our wedding pictures and think "if only I could have put 20 years' life experience into those two young people," but even thinking it I know our lives wouldn't have been much different, and I know that isn't how it works. Everyone treads and learns from their own path.

I give my husband credit for being persistent, loyal, and steadfast - qualities that have been revealed to be real treasure, worth more than mansions and riches. (But maybe as much as a few old tractors - ha, kidding).

As I sat across the table tonight amidst the laughter and chatter of our girls, I notice the white creeping into his hair and I smile. Life has not been perfect, isn't perfect, but life has been good; is good. Life is busy enough but we have consciously taken the time to spend on each other and the girls over the years.

I think it is likely that it won't be too long in the future that it will be once again just he and I sitting across the table from each other as the girls continue to walk their own paths and yes, I feel a wee bit sad, but I sigh with contentment because that is what we have worked together toward. I finish up the dishes and as I pack the last one away, I whisper my thanks...

Thank you God...all those years ago, even so young and naive, I chose better than I knew.

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2012-01-07T09:10:00.002-04:00

Everyone should have something fun just for fun. It isn't a waste of time to create and work on TOB's whether it be photos, knitting, or a painting..there are so many different avenues, price ranges, and time parameters that there surely is something that would appeal to everyone. Why? 1) stress reliever. 2) feeds your creativity so that other areas of your life are enriched. 3) helps you think outside the box. 4) another way to develop and grow. 5) creating or taking part in beautiful things is like a mini vacation and is a great reward for doing all the regular things in life that may not be quite as much fun. Good. Stuff.

365.140

2012-01-06T06:58:00.006-04:00

A letter to my girl. If you want to listen in, come, pull up a seat.

"I want to do something that matters."

Such is the cry of many of our young people looking at options and trying to decide what the next step might be, especially this time of year.

Dolly, if you look at this outbuilding you see that at the moment, it is keenly in need of paint and a lot of tender loving care. It in itself will turn to dust some day and there will be nothing left of it. But. The person who built it did something that mattered. He built for a purpose and the building was used for whatever it was intended for. That building and the work and effort that went into it was important to those who needed it and we can pretty much assume whoever contracted it, was happy because it filled the need they had.

I suppose my point is that whatever vocation we choose in life, whether it be administrative work at the local college, working on a mission field in Cameroon...or somewhere in between, it isn't necessarily the work itself that matters, it's why or who you are doing for; it is you, while you are doing it.

1) Does the occupational field you are looking at line up with your passion? Your gifts and abilities?
- you will find the most contentment working in something that lines up with your natural tendencies. Contented people are not "perfect" but they bring so much to our lives because unlike the chicken who ran around screaming that the sky was falling, they tend to be consistent, even-keeled people who take life one step at a time, and who are steadfast, committed, and loyal. (You don't have to look much further than the very real example you have in your Daddy.)

2) Is the job choice a stepping stones to other things, can you broaden your career choice with additional education and skill building?
- regardless of what vocation you ultimately choose (or chooses you) never stop learning; this is a big and amazing world we live in with a plethora of opportunities to explore and develop all kinds of interests. Try not to be overwhelmed with the choices, but try to turn your perspective around to excitement and expectation - look at all the amazing opportunities just on the horizon where you will meet and learn from all kinds of new, interesting people.

3) Be committed to make a difference regardless of what field you choose. Be aware that you will need to care for you first (which includes listening for God's voice in the midst of so many, dreaming, exploring and breaking down the process in smaller bits so that you are not overwhelmed..."what do I have to do today, next week, next month?" etc.) so that you are on solid ground - and so you can care for others with the right motive.
- there aren't any jobs or roles that are more Godly or spiritual than others. If you are a Christ follower, then regardless of what your work or what your title, you are a minister. Period.

4) While it is important to look at trends and employment statistics, the reality is God is a big God and if you do what you love and feel called to do, he will direct your steps. If he can steer the hearts of kings, he can steer the hearts of those who interview you.
-Sometimes you start in one direction and that start takes you to something totally different than what you thought when you began. That is OK, life is fluid - there are seasons for everything, There will be some jobs that are for a season - others may last one's whole working career. The real question is - who are you meeting along the way, where can I make a difference? Some days just encouraging someone on the phone, or helping a student along their way, or baking biscuits to share with co-workers is the best work you can do. The thing is there are divine appointments everywhere you look. You just have to be aware of them. Why? Well because then you will find whatever it is that you are doing...matters.

5) Whatever the vocation, be determined to walk with integrity. It is one thing to be appreciated for the work you do and receive promotions, it is quite another to manipulate and scheme. While there are some who take no issue in getting ahead at the expense of others, the reality is that getting ahead in this world simply for the sake of getting ahead won't matter a hill of beans in eternity.
-My good friend Marcia, said to me 20 years ago during the time her dad was dying, "Gloria, don't love things that can't love you back." I have never forgotten those words and in fact, I think of them often. Those words have saved me a lot of heartache and have helped me countless times choose the next right thing to do. Sometimes I made career choices that wouldn't make sense to many, but make perfect sense when held up to the light of that statement. My friend made a difference in my life by being honest and by sharing something she was learning in the midst of pain.

I have said all of this really, to say: you matter. You are a compassionate, bright, articulate, joy-filled young lady with great things ahead of you, regardless of what you "do."

Love you Dolly, have a happy day :)
Mops

(sidenote - yes, I am still learning! Just signed up for two more courses this semester at NNU, then 7 more to go before I am finished the Ministerial Course of Studies. To think I started at ground zero needing 24 modules...I am getting there, slowly but surely :)

365.139

2012-01-05T06:49:00.010-04:00

Was reading my cousin's blog this a.m - seriously, he is a gifted writer, chef, photographer and can pretty much turn his hand at anything. He has asked a question, or maybe it was more of a pondering, that got me thinking:

Can the culmination of our lives be anything more that the moments we sneak out while no one at the bar is paying attention? Is it better to go home early with our dignity intact or to straggle on the dance floor until last call is followed by a request by all involved to leave?

To which I respond a resounding, YES! My life, your life, will affect generations for good or not so good. It is important to know and realize God's Word and promises for questions such as the one that was asked. Immediately, the book of Deuteronomy comes to mind and I think of verses 5:9-10: You shall not bow down or worship them (idols); for I, the Lord your God am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and forth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.

A complicated, well written, poetic query of the heart answered plainly by a God who knew his creation would ask such questions. Don't we all ask similar questions in different forms? Do I matter? When my time is done, will there be anything left (besides a few dollars and some knickknacks that won't matter nohow)?

I want my children, and my children's children, and those who are yet far off, to benefit from the outpouring of love of all that I am toward my God, yes, even with the bumps, bruises, and skinned knees of life. We are keenly aware of the invisible, but very present threads from one generation to the next. Have you ever heard someone say, "He walks just like his dad." or, "Her mannerisms are identical to that of her mom or her aunt or her grandmother."

We can explain those things through genetics and biochemistry, absolutely, but what if, what if there is more to it? What if those genetics and biochemistry are complicated explanations for the simplicity of God's fingerprint apparent in one generation to the next?

Many things to ponder, and in that pondering, I press on, knowing that this life does make sense and that each person I meet is simply an opportunity to show God's care. One thing I am sold out to - and I am in good company I understand, is that I will press onward toward the goal to receive the Heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling me. Today, tomorrow, years from now, in God's time - and in that - there is peace.

I want to be like the elderly couple who are the last ones off the dance floor, the room almost empty, with lights low, the remnants of the event evidenced in dirty dishes and strewn chairs around the auditorium. They are not wanting to leave because, well because they have had such a darn good time. They have finished strong. As the last notes of the music fades and the sound of a cane and shuffling feet wander past my hearing, I whisper to them, "Don't leave til the band stops playing."

365.138

2012-01-04T06:34:00.000-04:00

Life gets overwhelming and tangled very quickly if we lose our focus on today to worry about tomorrow. People in every generation must have had to deal with this issue also because God's Word addresses it very clearly: Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

It is a good thing to plan for the future, but it is quite another to allow the worries of the future be a joy sucker today. Most of what we worry about will never happen. Imaginations and wanderings in our minds can be debilitating and will stop us from living today. If we focus on the matter at hand and determine to walk out our steps doing the next right thing with God's help, there will come a day where we look back and realize that we've just come through a pretty rough patch. The old saying goes, "how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time..."

If others continually ask you - or your own thoughts are screaming, "what are you going to do, what are you going to do, what are you going to do?" Silence that nasty question and those worrying and joy sucking thoughts with "What I am going to do today is exactly what God shows me to do and I am going to trust that he will shine a light upon my path and lead me in the right direction as I continue to follow him."

Then imagine sticking your arm out and holding up your hand in the "talk to the hand" gesture, get that visual clear in your mind, silence what needs to be silenced, stop talking, and keep going. There are lots of good things about the day before you; bits of joy and all kinds of opportunity to interact with others and experience happy moments. Wouldn't it be tragic to miss out on that good stuff because you worried so much about what might never happen tomorrow?

Do what you can, do what you must, do what is yours, and then leave the rest to God.

Duly noted.

James 4:14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.

365.137

2012-01-03T08:01:00.003-04:00

New Year's Bootcamp 101.

Here is a resolution for you if you have not already made one. And, if you have, so what - add this one to your list because maybe it is time to truly make a change that will affect every area of your life: Stop telling yourself things that you would never say to others. You. Are. Your. Own. Worst. Enemy. We would never tell someone that we meet that they are ugly, or stupid, or that they do not measure up. (To whom by the way), yet we stand in the mirror, or shrink back from life because we tell ourselves lies.

Lies.
Lies.
Lies.

How about making a resolution today that you will start to be kinder to yourself and tell yourself the

Truth.
Truth.
Truth according to God.

Psalm 139:14 states it very plainly: I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

Stop calling God a liar, take him at his word and remind yourself a hundred times today if you have to. Be aware. If you are aware of who you are and you are aware of God's presence, you can dramatically change the atmosphere in any room.
No? Well, take a second, and think about how the atmosphere changes when a naysayer, cup half empty kind of person enters the room.
Get it?
Got it.

Try it out today. Ask God to help you be fully aware of who you are in him (thank you Lord I am wonderfully and fearfully made) and to be aware of his presence.

Father, as you go with me today, would you help me to be aware of you and to be aware of all the times my mind automatically jumps to self sabotage. Give me awareness and strength to stop those lies and transform them into words of truth - that I am wonderfully and fearfully made and I praise you for that. Amen.

Have a happy day.

365.136

2011-12-23T07:58:00.005-04:00

Happy Christmas Eve Squared!

It's two days before Christmas

When all through the land

I find myself wondering "will I use fresh or will I use canned?"

Company's coming, there will be more at the table

I hope the girls help out and that everyone is stable.

The presents are wrapped, (well they are bought, more or less),

I'm trying to get through the season without stress.

The kids are still sleeping' Oh, for sure I'll leave them be

And spend some quality time just on me.

The house is still dark, the Christmas tree aglow,

I sit with my Father and tell him my woes.

This one and that one, oh, no one ever sees,

All the work I do, just to please.

And I hear a still small voice and it rings oh so true,

"My child, that stuff doesn't matter, but oh, how I love you.

You love and you care and extend yourself to others,

Well, that's some of the reasons I made you a mother.

You've been running around for gifts, (and then he did sigh)

But the things your family need are things you cannot buy.

Hug them, love on them, bring peace and then bless,

Laugh and hang out together in spite of the mess.

Things will get done, gifts will be long gone,

But the memories of love and family is what truly lives on."

So take time today on Christmas Eve Squared...

To step back a bit and then heartily share...

Greetings and well wishes (and be dependin' on prayer).

Happy Christmas friends - posts will be hit and miss over the next few weeks. Be blessed and remember why we celebrate! God is good - all the time.

365.135

2011-12-22T06:05:00.006-04:00

each word

spoken to
the air

reverberates

the good ones
need to settle
in right places

the other ones should
be packed up and sent away
somewhere else

where no
harm is done

365.134

2011-12-21T06:13:00.000-04:00

It's.

New.

Day.

365.133

2011-12-20T06:40:00.003-04:00

We are only about a week away from a brand new year. As I putter about this morning, drinking my coffee, sitting with my journal and contemplating the day, I have yet another great idea for an "encouraging business." The issue for me is not the ideas, it is the follow through; the marketing, the confidence needed to be able to move beyond my own boundaries. Will 2012 be the year I take a leap and unlock a bit more of that potential and step out of the boat to do some of the things I have dreamed of doing? Will it be your year?

For me -

It isn't about the money.

It never is, never has been.

It's about change.

It's about bringing hope and life into the lives of others; specifically - women. Women who are living in the shadows..... Well, that is me too in some areas. It is all of us to some degree. Shadows of fear of failure, insecurities, excuses we use.

So...start thinking about 2012 now. What are some of the dreams in you that have yet to be unlocked? Where to start?

1) Ask God to check your motives and to examine your heart first so that you start out on the correct path. Why? Although a parallel path may look similar, it will take you to a very different place.

2) How long have you had the desire to move out in this area? Often God places a call upon your life at a young age and either you have not recognized it, ignored it, or been too fearful to walk it out. Look back at your path and note the times when what you were doing seemed natural and came easy to you.

3) If you truly do not know, then simply ask God to reveal to you what it has he has specifically for you. He will answer in his way and in his time. Be aware, expect, and be ready.

4) If you notice another woman on the path struggling, for the love of God, don't walk over her; stop and help her along. I don't understand backbiting and the using of other women as climbing blocks. Seriously - do you think true success is seeing broken, bleeding, wounded people behind you? Do you really want to succeed at the expense of others?

We are in this thing called "life" together, and I truly believe that as we help others we are all stronger for it. Start dreaming - and write it down. It's almost midnight.

Luke 10:27 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and Love your neighbour (yes, that means everyone around you) as yourself.'"

365.132

2011-12-19T08:45:00.006-04:00

I was sent one of my all time favourite verses this a.m. from a friend. I discovered it a very long time ago hidden in one of lesser known books (minor prophets), Zephaniah. The book of Zephaniah was written as a warning to the Israelite's - imploring them to be who they were created to be - lights to the nations. It is an "if; then" book, similar to parts of Deuteronomy.

The verse is part of the "then" promise: Zeph 3:17 The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.

Who knows if you or I will ever be lights to the nations, but (and as much as I am reminding you - even more so, I am reminding me) today we can be lights in our homes, in our workplaces, and in our communities. As depressing and awful the news seems to be on many fronts these days, the truth is that God is still God and he loves his kids with an everlasting love. Regardless of circumstances, who is in charge, or what comes our way, it is my, our responsibility to show that unconditional love to others. Period.

Every time I have the thought to reach out, others quickly rise to combat it.

"You will be rejected."

(I did what I felt I needed to do and at the very least, I caused no harm.)

"If you do something kind, others sitting on the sidelines - or worse, the recipient - would wonder at your motive."

(What if that person desperately needs the exact word of encouragement or act of kindness only you have to give today?)

"Who do you think you are anyway?"

(One of God's ambassador's - no more, no less.)

Get your house in order. Obey. Do the right thing. When you make a mistake, don't stop on the road reading the road signs trying to figure out where you are and asking every person that drives by how to get to where it is you are supposed to be, simply look up, get your bearings, do the next right thing...and keep going.

Why? Well, for one, God will take delight in you and rejoice over you and you will have made a difference, however small, wherever you are - that very well could have a ripple effect far greater than anything you can see in the moment.

*If you listen to CBC, as I do, I have found myself wondering countless times, "wonder where Maple Plains is" and why the announcer always says "in Maple Plains it is x amount of degrees," well, I did find it - but I still don't know why they use Maple Plains as a PEI landmark....

365.131

2011-12-17T12:15:00.001-04:00

Focus. Focus. Keep the Main thing, the Main thing.

365.130

2011-12-16T06:54:00.001-04:00

I love all kinds of colour and took this shot inside the Basilica downtown....a bit of visit on a lunch hour in the very near future to sit in complete silence might be very beneficial this time of year.

365.129

2011-12-15T06:38:00.005-04:00

On those days where stuff happens - you feel as if you have been hit by a train and find yourself considering your next move; your way: lie down and die, retaliate, or loudly walk around wounded so that everyone within 10 feet knows your pain.

Or you could choose God's way...

Micah 6:8 He has shown you, o mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

365.128

2011-12-14T06:18:00.002-04:00

It's your move.

Really.

What are you going to do now?

Sometimes I think about the little tiny things that don't seem to have consequence yet end up changing the course of lives. A word spoken, a smile, stopping to listen to someone and something clicks and life seems to fall into place. But what about the words and attitudes that damage....anger spoken in the heat of the moment, judgement accompanied by ulterior motives, misspoken words that would have been better never spoken to the air, let alone someone else.

Gossip.

Accusation.

Slander.

Maybe if we really think about what we say and the impact of words on the lives of others we would choose more carefully. Words carry incredible power. Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names WILL hurt me - and you too, and others around us. Today, you have the power to lift up or tear down - regardless of what others speak about you. You can be the change, it doesn't have to be the same way it has always been.

Listen up. A dog that brings a bone, carries a bone.

Your move. Do you bring the bone? Carry the bone? Bury the bone?

Experiment today and live all your waking moments speaking and thinking on good things. Take negativity captive and shoo it out the door as quick as it wants to enter. It is not cold and it does not need a home in your house!

And hey, if you choose to think and speak good things about others that are a bit kinder than what currently is, you will find soon enough it to be truth.

Col 3:12-13 Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

365.127

2011-12-13T07:30:00.007-04:00

Treasure. Treasures. To be treasured.

Treasure: (n) accumulated or stored wealth; money, jewels, or other valuables of any kind.

Christmas shopping, most everyone is doing it these days. Have you been to the grocery store? Seems everything has gone up, but what I am most stunned at is the price of things not so easily picked up at the grocery store: integrity, morals, families, friends, better jobs, positioning, status...

Where's your treasure?

What do you treasure?

Are you treasured?

Some interesting concepts to consider and set personal standards. Why? Well, if you don't set your own personal standard, someone else will. You will be pushed and shoved little by little into the mold of what others think you should be and then you somehow find yourself on a path you never intended. Ugh.

But what about treasures that can't be bought? Healthy and fulfilling relationships, peace, joy, contentment, hope, are a few baubles that come to mind. Do others feel treasured by you? Are you committed to living out the extra mile* principle so that those you love feel appreciated, cared for, and special when they are in your presence - and just as important, when they are out of your presence?

I think most people would prefer the gift of being treasured rather than worldly treasures. Most people do "just enough" in their jobs, or for others, doing just enough work or having just enough love, joy, and blessing to get by. The cup of life is always at the half way mark, threatening to leak out all over the floor.

Come on - don't you want your cup in life so full it overflows, spilling out all over the place and others get poured on too? You can start now, today...it can be an early New Year's resolution - to attempt to be kinder, gentler, and speak with honour about others in every day life.

Choose. Choose to give and bless and be you, doing for others with a happy heart with no conditions and you will find over time your cup is full, fuller than you ever thought possible. Choose to be around those who make you feel treasured. Spend time with those who lift you up and encourage you to be all that you were created to be and you will find yourself doing the same for others - it's is true, you become like those you hang out with. As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another (Proverbs 27:17)

Speaking of "extra mile," did you know that this saying originated in the time of Jesus? The Jewish people could be conscripted (or forced by law) to carry a Roman soldier's gear exactly one mile. If the soldier spotted a Jewish person and was tired, it was no big deal for him to request the Jewish man to carry his packs. The Jewish man had no choice but to do so or to bring penalty upon himself. You can bet that every Jew knew exactly how many feet were in a mile and would go exactly one mile and carry the gear no further. It was considered a degrading and humiliating experience for a Jewish person to be "caught" by a Roman. In fact, it was considered unclean and he would have to go through a ceremonial washing process after completing the duty.

When Jesus gave the command, "Go the extra mile," it was well known and understood to those listening the command would mean great personal cost. What a testimony it is not only fulfill the duty, but to go further than what is required.

Matthew 5:41 if someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.

365.126

2011-12-12T06:16:00.007-04:00

Snapping pictures on the bridge yesterday; a great day all around. My sister, brother, and I, along with a few tag-alongs popped over to Wentworth to see my dad and his wife, Sheila. It was beautiful driving weather, the food and conversation great, the atmosphere relaxed. A banner day indeed.

thank you Lord

your mercies are brand

new every day

i am

entirely satisfied

knowing you are

present

in my

yesterdays

today

and

tomorrows

i place
a-l-l

my trust in You

amen

John 6:66-69 From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.

(Can anyone spell discouragement? There will always be times of testing, disappointment, and crash courses in the realities of life, even Jesus faced them.)

"You do not want to leave too do you?" Jesus asked the twelve.

(And Simon Peter comes through with an answer that could be shared by anyone who is a Christ follower, who recognizes that patches of life can be difficult, and who have debated and concluded that this walk of faith is worth it...)

Simon Peter answered him, "Lord to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to know and believe you are the Holy one of God."

(Good times, not so good times, all the hills and valleys - and for everything in between, only he has the Words of eternal, contented, fulfilled, and blessed life - and hey, you never know when you are in a valley what the view from the top is unless you keep climbing - it could be a miracle or a breakthrough)

Indeed.

365.125

2011-12-10T07:58:00.003-04:00

365.124

2011-12-09T06:22:00.003-04:00

Good morning. Seeing as it is December 9, 2011 (Happy Birthday Gracie!) I should be getting out my Christmas card. So - here you go. This (now very vintage) bauble is the only item I happen to have from my childhood. How a glass ornament survived in house with four kids, several moves, and likely a few animals is beyond me.

My mom asked me last night, "Gloria, aren't you doing Christmas at all this year?"

Well yes, I am doing Christmas this year :) Each year, maybe it is age, maybe it is that our kids are older and my thoughts will change once we have grandchildren, I don't know, but I am having a bit of a difficult time with the whole shopping and buying aspect. I deeply enjoy doing for others and blessing someone by finding just the perfect thing. But that is getting harder to find in the days of "if I need something, I simply go buy it." Especially when I read articles like I did yesterday where the mall "Santa Claus's" were reporting that kids wish lists have changed a great deal this year.

One child asked for a job for his parents.
Another child asked for packages of real toilet paper for his mother so she wouldn't have to steal it at local restaurants and gas stations.
These are not isolated incidents.
Unfortunately, you don't have to look far to see difficulty.

I enjoy the time people take to visit, to call, to write a note, sitting in the living room enjoying the reflection of the tree lights on the hardwood floor, early morning peace and quiet with a great cup of coffee and a bit of encouragement from my Bible, good health, contented and quiet family times, Christmas tunes new and old, and a whole lot of little things that might go unnoticed if you don't take the time for them. Most of the stuff that I really treasure is stuff that can't be bought. "Gifts" is definitely not my love language! LOL. I expect one would feel different if it was - but then again, some of the best gifts don't necessarily come with price tags.

So my Christmas gift for you this season is best wishes for contentment, joy, words of affirmation that you can tuck away for the Dog Days of February, a few wonderful meals shared with people you love, peace in your relationships, laughter from your toes, belting out Christmas songs from your belly, lots of moments of being exactly where you are right in the moment, great hugs, good news, some days of rest and relaxation, and a sense of gratitude for all that you do have.

Oh, and please - feel free to re-gift this message...

Luke 2:8-12 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.

365.123

2011-12-08T06:38:00.005-04:00

"Waiting is the hardest part of hope"

On a sidenote....3 great things yesterday. 1) "Passed" Employee review with flying colours. It was a sweet affirmation of my contribution to our department and sometimes it is simply really nice to know your efforts and work ethic are appreciated - and "words of affirmation" is my love language so yesterday's meeting was a highlight. 2) I attended a small function with a lovely bunch of coconuts, I mean, ladies. Ha ha. I was immersed in loving, accepting, easy company, soft lights and relaxing, peaceful decor for a few hours - so much so, that when I opened the door to leave it was a shock to enter the night air and "return" to reality. 3) I received the Best. Card. Ever. in the mail when I got home. This was the handwritten note on the inside:

"We have decided to make a donation to the animal shelter or give blood in lieu of Christmas

gifts from now on and would as that you do the same. Others certainly

are in need greater than we are. Even the food banks could use

some help I am sure. Hope you enjoy the holidays

and this wonderful time of year."

Love Dad and Sheila

A HUGE pleasant surprise and yes, I was wowed on several levels.

I am not typically a "gift' person and I totally appreciate the philanthropic message it contains. I recall opening a similar message a few years ago - I received two chicks one year from a student (she had donated to World Vision so that a little girl in a village on the other side of the world could work toward a better life in raising the chicks, selling their eggs, breeding them etc.) - and I felt honoured that her family thought enough of me to influence another person's life on my behalf. Fabulous gift idea :)

http://www.ncmc.ca/catalogue.html Nazarene gift catalogue - "Compassion as a lifestyle"

http://thewaterproject.org/?gclid=CICakfSi8qwCFcYRNAodqiHNMw Provides clean water - you can even "see" the well project that you invest in.

https://catalogue.worldvision.ca/Gifts/Forms/Home.aspx?mc=4260121&lang=en&gclid=COGairCj8qwCFaQRNAodUh3bMg World Vision catalogue.

I balance our giving with a few local efforts as well as a few far away. Food and clothing and yes, even a chick or two, just might be the best investment you make this year.

365.122

2011-12-07T06:52:00.009-04:00

Joshua 6:20 When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in and they took the city.

In an ever shifting world, the one thing we can count on is God. He doesn't change. Kingdoms come and go, values change, landmarks become unrecognizable, but God and his promises are sure.

Let's go back a lot of years. Can you imagine Joshua and his army standing outside the walled city talking strategy.

"Well fellas, I heard from God. I know that I know we have his promise for this victory and he has given me very clear instructions."

Shouts and whistles, "Yay! Joshua, our fearless leader will lead us into victory!

"We are to march around the city, armed, every day for six days, and on the seventh day we won't march once but we are to march seven times. At the end of the seventh time around, the priests are to blow their trumpets. When you hear the long blast on the trumpets, we all shout together, long and loud. The walls will fall down, and the army will go up, and we can go straight in."

"That's it?"

"Yes"

"Are you kidding?"

"No"

Right then a decision had to be made. Did they trust that their leader was actually hearing from God - was his relationship with him sound, was he trustworthy? Or was he a delusional lunatic? Joshua must have many years of credibility and wisdom under his belt.

"OK men, get your battle gear on!"

And the rest is history. As unbelievable as Joshua's plan was, it worked because it wasn't his plan - it was God's. He tells us that the wisest wisdom of the world is foolishness to him. Often times we just have to keep doing the next right thing because we are standing on promises that God made to us and we know that we know God will have the victory, even if it sounds crazy to others.

The tricky part is to know exactly what he has promised.

Is it me and my desires? Or is it God's promises?

I don't know. But if God is asking you do to some standing or march in ways that don't make sense and you want to be sure, then take the time and spend it in prayer and contemplation and inquire until you "know that you know." Write down exactly what it is you come away with so you can refer back to that place of remembrance. Why? Because on the 3rd or 4th or 6th time around the walls there will be naysayers who will want you to give up. You will be telling you to give up, because discouragement sets in. But. Sometimes it is darkest just before the dawn.

I wonder when we get to Heaven if we will see our journey and have a bird's eye view of the times we gave up one step short of victory? Or walked way beyond where God's promises stopped, zigzagging through life.

Haven't got time to stop and ask? You haven't got time not to.

Would it be so that you are clever and honest enough today to ask the right questions. And then would it be so that you are patient and strong enough to wait for God's answers.

*I went to the Welshmen Community Band concert last night. My good friend from many years back, Paul, was playing the trumpet. I was chatting with him last night about the blowing of trumpets in Biblical times. Thanks Paul for the inspiration for this snippet this a.m. Have a happy day!

365.121

2011-12-06T05:51:00.000-04:00

There is no one more miserable than one who has been set free from chains, and who has picked one link up at a time, until once again they find themselves shackled; in fact, they find themselves far worse off for having tasted freedom.

Gal 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened by the yoke of slavery.

365.120

2011-12-05T06:46:00.004-04:00

If you have opportunity, pick up a copy of Feast of Seasons by Steve Bell. It is well worth the listen. One of my favourite songs is Old Sage. The song is written from the perspective of one of the wise men (or an old sage) who experienced a journey of a lifetime. Has a whole lotta meaning in it, especially after an Encounter weekend that is still happening almost 5 years later. When we truly encounter, we are changed - there are things than never can be the same - well, because they aren't.

Old Sage (Home Again)
Music by Steve Bell / Lyric by Steve Bell and Jamie Howison

I remember how it started still
Those are days that I remember well
It was something in the stars that was new enough to tell
There was something going down

So we set off for a foreign land
With no idea what we just might find
’cause when you’re following a star
You have to walk at night
Sounds crazy even now
And still the search goes on for
My way back home
I can’t go back the way I’ve known
And now the road for me has changed
Nothing seems to look the same
Don’t get me wrong I’m not complaining
And every star along the way
Holds the promise for the day
When I will be at home again

Some tell me I’m a wise man
A kind of sage you know it makes me laugh
I don’t know what I’m not, barely know what I am
If you know what I mean

But everybody can remember when
They had to stop and start all over again
It was something ’bout that boy in Bethlehem
I will never be the same

365.119

2011-12-03T08:57:00.008-04:00

Last night I put up our tree, and as I put up the tree, typically Christmases past come to mind - as a little girl, a teenager, people come and gone.

So I woke up this morning and I had a really big cry. For the health of it. We tell little people "there, there don't cry" and from the time of childhood we learn that it isn't OK to cry. Hello? If the manliest of all men, Jesus, displayed sorrow (Jesus wept) then I figure a paradymne shift is needed. People cry. Sometimes life just hurts. Or we feel overwhelmed. Or things are sad. Or we are way happy. Crying is simply another emotion and lots of times it is a healthy way to release what needs to be let go.

Christmas seems to bring out the best - and the worst in people.

Not surprising, Teddy is the only one who would pose this a.m. So Teddy is saying, "Hmph, so cry and be done with it already instead of carrying all that grief around. And when you are done, wipe your tears and look around."

All around us are hurting people. Yes, it is overwhelming and one could look at the resources available and take the view of "I can do so little, why bother?" Even worse, you can ignore the view and push your way through life with glazed, unseeing eyes and pretend that everything and everyone is fine. We're all fine. So are you. Help yourself, would you. And darn it, if I don't see you; you don't exist.

Either way only works only for a time because as Jesus said, "the poor will always be with us." Which can certainly translate to, "whether the poor are here, in Africa, or poor in spirit, (emotions, loss, sickness etc.) some things won't change."

This season, open your eyes and help the one in front of you with no conditions (I will help you if you clean up your act, change your life, do something for me, yada, yada, yada). The revelation today is that it isn't your job to clean other people up and change them.

It's God's. Only God can transform lives. Today you can let go of the GRS (Global Responsibility Syndrome) and be free of trying to change others into what you think they should be. Your job is to love. Period. "Love one another" is the greatest command.

Maybe today someone needs something as simple as a word of encouragement. A few dollars. A phone call. A prayer. If you have the urge to do well, just do it. You don't have to explain anything. How many times do we have a thought to help another and then don't follow through because "what would people think?" Or it may be uncomfortable, out of my comfort zone. Just a minute now, isn't it the church that is supposed to do all that?

Look in the mirror, if you claim yourself a Christian, you are the church. Ok, now that's settled, have at it. One little task, a bit of effort - nothing to overwhelm, but you will find if you go out on a expotition (as Winnie the Pooh calls it) with purpose simply looking to brighten someone else's day, your perspective will change and others, including you, will be better for it.

I pray for blessing and encouragement and peace over you today, this season, and way beyond.

365.118

2011-12-02T07:07:00.005-04:00

What is joy?

(I personally think it is an acronym for Jesus Over You.)

Joy is defined as deep contentment, peace, inner happiness, and great delight; sometimes accompanied by laughter and sometimes not. Joy is much deeper than a chuckle or a belly laugh - it comes from the depths of one's core being and is visible. It is an attractive attribute and its presence makes you want to spend time with those who tend to walk in it regardless if the day is sunny, cloudy, rainy or otherwise. It's a day, and they are pretty much happy to experience it and the people in their lives, because their overall attitude is "life could always be worse."

It doesn't come from circumstances, although it rises to the surface when good stuff is happening. Why do I think this? Have you ever witnessed someone encounter an incredible good thing only to pick it apart until all that remains is the teeny tiny negative aspect?

Have you ever noticed someone facing something difficult only to find the teeny tiny good in it?

So have I. I was listening to CBC yesterday as I typically do on the way home from work and was fascinated and encouraged by the story of an 83 year old man who met an 89 year old lady in a nursing home. Both were widowed and had a list of health problems longer than your kid's Christmas list. They are, for realsies, at the end of the line.

Yet, here they were, being interviewed on their wedding day, explaining how they met (love at first sight - a table apart), they talked about their faith, some of their life events, and how thankful they were to have found each other at this stage of their lives. He shared that he would rub her legs for hours to keep the circulation going. They hold hands constantly. He checks up on her early in the mornings to make sure she is OK. (He is in room 52, she is in room 25).

They were going to a nice hotel not too far away for their honeymoon (he cannot drive, and she was excited for a fancy hotel and bubble bath). After their honeymoon they were hoping to get a shared room at the nursing home. "It looks like one will open soon." He stated. (Yes, I laughed.)

Many would look at their circumstances and write them off as too old, and say, "What is the point, realistically, how long would they have each other?"

I say, "Even if it is only for a day - then it's a good day."

I don't think you ever get old on the inside - your feelings may get wiser over the years, but not older. Whether you are 21 or 81, you still feel love and have the desire to be loved and cared for.

If I were a betting person, I betcha they have JOY all over them - and that staff members who face so much and who are constantly dealing with the end aspects of people's lives are way encouraged by their story. I know I was.

May you choose joy today! Me too!

P.S. Check out Jenny's blog to see the deal on this picture :)

http://jennysalphabetsoup.blogspot.com/2011/12/jennys-alphabet-soup.html

365.117

2011-12-01T07:07:00.002-04:00

All things being equal, today you have 1,440 minutes in your wallet. How are you going to spend them? Are you going to use them flippantly? Toss them away because they are of little value? Are you even aware they are at your disposal?

'Tis the season. Bustling, hustling, busy people we are. It has become a title, one we take much pride in. Wake up! Busy does not mean important.

Rushing here and there, frantically attempting to be ready for the season, baking, buying, shopping, browsing, decorating. If you find yourself wondering how much is enough, then read on.

If you measure your success, find your value, or feel safe in acquisitions or money in the bank, there will never be enough.

Stop and think about what your core values are. What do you treasure? What do you spend the majority of your time thinking about? Are they things that eventually turn to dust? "Don't love things that can't love you back;" were words spoken to me many years ago by a friend. That little line has served as a strong reminder over the years to put "things" in proper perspective. "Things" are fine - but they can never replace relationships or people.

Yes, it is true, money can buy happiness. But happiness is a fleeting state of mind - it whets the appetite, lasts momentarily, and is never satisfied.

Today, my deepest hope for you is for things that can't be picked up at the local market, put in a bank account, or stored in a shed: peace and contentment. "It is well with my soul" could be the best gift your give yourself and others this season.

Phil 4:12-13 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

365.116

2011-11-30T07:15:00.002-04:00

I was looking for a picture that would describe...I don't know - the inner workings of people's lives I suppose. Bits of beauty, reflections of others, some darkness, a few scattered, forgotten leaves. Texture.

In the past few days, I have heard the hearts of others - from some there has been incredible joys and revelation, for others, devastating circumstances and pain, and life is up in the air in many ways. I am convinced that all peoples suffer pain of some kind. Physical, emotional, or spiritual. And, with sorrow, I recognize that I inflict pain on others, often times, (I hope it is most times actually) unknowingly.

We all do. Even when we are not aware of it, we cannot meet the expectations or understand the filter that others around us view life through, and things we say or do may be a trigger or cause a pain that we have no concept.

And then there is worry. Fear. Dread. Already I find myself worrying about things months or years in the future and I am constantly reminded that the next breath I take is not guaranteed. I am old enough to realize that there are no guarantees in life.

Except one.

We have this opportunity to choose a pretty awesome life walking partner. Jesus. Our choice - one doesn't have to, but one can. He doesn't guarantee a pain or hassle free life, but his guarantee is way better than Future Shop© and it's for life - (and beyond, actually) - that he will never ever leave nor forsake us. Ever. Whether I am on the mountaintop reveling in a glory experience or I find myself in the valley wondering how the heck I ended up at the bottom. Again.

Bam. There he is, waiting to shoulder my cares, worries, fear, and pain. Bam. There is he is, inviting me to a peace and deep healing that only he can give. Bam. There he is, helping me to love and care for others way beyond my own capacity.

Your choice. Sometimes I think it would be easier if there were no choice. But that isn't who God is, he wants us to come to him through the way he provided. He won't make us walk his way, he simply invites us and offers the opportunity to each of us. Why? Well if you "made" your children love you, it wouldn't truly be love...you want your children to love you and spend time with you because you are developing this wow lifetime relationship and life is enriched and better because of good, healthy relationships.

Dear Jesus,

Today I want to invite you

to come and walk

with me. Yup, I know

I have done some things

that don't line up with how

you want and I am sorry,

truly sorry I have caused

others and myself pain.

Please forgive me

and wipe my slate clean.

Come into my life and

help me walk with you

and follow you all the days

of my life.

Amen.

Bam. Done, that is the easy part and a beginning - now go and walk it out. Find others who are like minded and hang out with them. Learn. Grow. Ask questions. There are different paths for different people. Different is ok, as long as you are hanging out with Jesus. Find a church that feels right to you and commit to it and to those who sit in the seats. Perfect? Ohmydear, no. Forgiven, know it, and have not forgotten? Uh huh, you got it.

Matthew 11:28-29 Come to me, all who are weary and heavy burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in spirit, and you will find rest for your souls.

365.115

2011-11-29T05:47:00.002-04:00

There is beauty

all around us

in us

in others

sometimes

we just don't

notice

'til

our eyes

adjust to the
light

365.114

2011-11-28T06:01:00.001-04:00

All the darkness in the world cannot put out the light of One. Single. Candle.

And that - is tremendous!

365.113

2011-11-26T13:32:00.000-04:00

kids used to play

with rag dolls

skipping ropes and bicycles

hide and seek

outside til dusk

now they worry

'bout global warming

and natural resources

will there be

enough for me

too many

grown up

problems for

babies

one generation

and life is changed

exponentially

wonder what

another tier

will look like

365.112

2011-11-25T07:15:00.012-04:00

No, there is not one who doesn't carry the dirt of daily living around with them.

Some days you start out clean and fresh and by 10 a.m. there you are with a whirl of dust around you. (Ever see the kid from Peanuts? Pig-Pen - he continually wandered around in the midst of a dirt storm).

Some days one can't be bothered or simply doesn't have the strength to shake it off and the dust bunnies build up - no, actually - they multiply. Exponentially.

And then you find yourself not thinkg about clean but trying to decide between clean enough and dirty. Oh dear.

Step one is seeing the dirt.

Step two is knowing (that you know) what clean looks like.

Step three is getting washed.

Step four is maintaining cleanliness.

Psalm 24

Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord?

Who may stand in his holy place?

The one who has clean hands and a pure heart.

There is a song by Pam Thum that sums this all up - I was looking for the song on Youtube but it was not available...some of the words are "get down to the river wash your sins away" but what I really love about the song is the last few words where an older man's voice cuts in and says in a gravelly voice "You. Can. Change. History."

Indeed!

That kinda clean is even better than Ivory© soap which is 99 44/100% pure.

365.111

2011-11-24T06:51:00.009-04:00

Broken.

If this boat belonged to you, your response could be...

-I'll just get rid of the whole thing.

-I haven't got time to deal with this, I'll leave it alone and it will go away.

-I will just replace it with something brand new. If it breaks, I will move on. Again.

-There is something wrong with it, I can't quite figure it out, but I don't like it.

-That broken glass makes me so angry!

-I'll talk about it non-stop.

-This does not fit into my life right now.

-Way too much work for me.

-Umm, actually it still functions, so I think I can put up with it.

Sounds crazy doesn't it. The boat a valuable item and it is not very likely someone would toss the whole thing or come to these conclusions because of a bit of brokenness.

But - what if that bit of brokenness is you - or me? The hard truth is - our response may not be so far off to some of the ones listed above.

-rejection

-hurtful words

-circumstances beyond our control

-labels

-failure

-low self esteem

-misjudged

-unaccepted

Ouch. Broken. Maybe the wounds are visible. Maybe they aren't.

Brokenness can be fixed. How do I know this? Because God says so. He tells us we can be as good as new, as white as wool, healed and whole. Like the window above, it may take a bit of work and a few friends to help out, a bit of glue and a master fixer upper. But it is doable and quite possible. And that is good news!

Psalm 147:3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

365.110

2011-11-23T06:37:00.002-04:00

I have tried just about every coffee maker in search of the perfect cup of coffee. One thing I do like is coffee and I often drink only one cup per day so I have always felt it was important (to me) to have a really great cup of java housed in a perfect cup - right weight, size, etc. Yes, I know it is a bit of a quirk and yes, I have a dozen or so mugs of all different sizes, weights, and finishes in my cupboard that attest to this quest.

I have tried the round pod machine, the plastic cup machine, several different expensive and inexpensive coffee makers looking for the cup of coffee that is very strong and has a perfect blend of taste. After several years of trial and error I have found the exact right coffee maker.

What I have discovered pretty much sums up life. Simplicity and lack of clutter seem to work best.

Yup, boiling water poured through a plastic cone lined with a non-bleached coffee filter + 2 TBSP of coffee = a perfect cup every time. Go figure. The cone costs 9.99 at Canadian Tire and you can use it for years. Perfect. Who knew? Well, I do and now you do too. (As far as actual coffee goes, I take a container of Folgers bold and set aside about 1/3 of if and add about 1/2 package of Starbucks or similar, any dark blend, to the container and shake to mix.)

Easy. Simple. Perfect.

365.109

2011-11-22T06:16:00.001-04:00

pilgrim I am

hesitantly

stepping

toward you

aware

that you

have

been present

all along

waiting

for me

to lace up
my sneakers

blanket music prayer resolution desire

expect trust submit release

deluxe orange luggage

I am

ready

365.108

2011-11-21T06:12:00.008-04:00

Gravity is gravity is what?

This beautiful droplet of water falling into a bottle is a natural consequence of leaving a tap dripping with a bottle underneath it. If I left the tap on all day every day there would not be one time that the drops wouldn't fall into the bottle (as long as I left the bottle in the same place) Why? Because gravity works every time.

I can try to convince you that I don't believe in gravity and that really, it doesn't truly exist until the drop hits the water - but as much as I tell you or shout it from the rooftops or hold placards telling you it isn't; aside from the hoopla and away from all the noise - it still is.

Do you think deep down everyone knows that too?

365.107

2011-11-19T07:58:00.001-04:00

Shhh, quiet. Sometimes we don't need to say anything.

365.106

2011-11-18T07:08:00.009-04:00

"Oh hi, good morning."
"Yes, I was sooo tired yesterday I was actually mixing up my words."
"Uh huh, I know that your wings are a shelter and that I can rest in their shadow....thank you, I do appreciate that even though sometimes I forget."
"Yeah, sometimes I feel that people don't listen to me and that they are having all these wow experiences and I feel left out...that somehow I am missing everything. Oh, I know it just seems that way, everybody has their stuff. I have lots too I am sure, I'll work on it."

"Oh yeah, I forgot - it isn't my job to search my own heart. LOL, ohmyland, why do I even try?"
"I know, well I should know but it is good to chat with you and be reminded. Yes, I'll rest in that today."

"OK, I will say it every time today I am tempted to put myself down or start on a path of stinkin' thinkin'...do I have to aloud? OK, ugh....OK...I am wonderfully and beautifully created. It sounds kind of silly to say that."
"Yes, I know it is true. Well, because you say it is, so it has to be. Yes, I am going to have to trust you to transform my mind, to transform me."
"Yes....what a relief. Why do I think that is my job again?"

"I know, regardless of what anyone says or insinuates. Got it. I am wonderfully and beautifully created and you are going to do the transforming, I just have to rest in you and enjoy the people and things you place in my path today. Today I will look for bits of joy and walk in your peace, oh, and can you help me to do the next right thing? Yes, seekers find - good to remember!"

"Well you have to remind me over and over again. Yes, that is good. So when I find myself thinking or going places I shouldn't I can just say something like 'thank you God for making me, me....thank you that you will do a wonderful work in me and you will produce good fruit in my life as I yield to you.' and then get back doing the things I need to. Sigh. Gotcha."

"Whew, I know, I know, one of these days, I'll get it. Rest and trust and, 'me, go easy on me,' good words today, I hear you. I am glad you are ever patient and love me every minute of every day, even when I don't love myself. No, even when I don't like myself! LOL...OK, you have a happy day too."

365.105

2011-11-17T05:51:00.000-04:00

sometimes you

find

treasure

you weren't

looking

for

very

unlikely

places

365.104

2011-11-16T07:13:00.006-04:00

This has to be one of the most unusual/interesting displays I have run across on my lunch time strolls. I wonder if these doodads were mostly obtained through drive-thru's and thrown on the dash or if someone selected them one by one and placed them for display. When Jenny saw the picture and said, "Hey! My whole childhood is in there."

I see Smurfs - maybe a couple of generations of childhood? Maybe it changes on a regular basis...like a revolving art collection. My art collection is on display on a bulletin board in our kitchen (sparkly pins).

365.103

2011-11-15T07:39:00.003-04:00

(L to R: Dukie, Goops, Gingher)

This was taken one day when I hopped out of the car with my camera and shouted, "I have to practice, let me take your picture!" And to my amazement, these three who never like pictures...they posed. Well, they were goofing around and let me snap off a few shots :)

Today I am thankful for the treasure of a few pictures of the three of them who spent countless hours together in the garage, on tractors, puttering around the yard. Just being brothers, friends, good neighbours, men who love their families and who continually reach out to help others.

I have known each one since I was 15 years old - wow, more than 30 years, and this week we say goodbye for now, to Dukie.

I often thank God for the many people he has put in our oikos (circle of influence). Family, friends, church family, co-workers - each one brings something of intrinsic value to our lives that only that person can bring.

Yes, all of us will experience hard days like today; it is a time to step back and remember good things and to honour one we have had the privilege to love, and it is also a time to be reminded to keep on working hard at being good to each other, perform acts of kindness, forgive others, and extend mercy and grace no matter what.

Why? Well, one never knows what a day will bring. And - I am thinking (well, actually I know that I know) that days lived with no regrets is the best way to live 'em out.

365.102

2011-11-14T06:59:00.006-04:00

It will be a busy week. It will be a difficult week in many ways. There will be tears. Handshaking. Memories shared. Laughter. This morning, in the stillness and dim light of the early day, as is pretty typical, I sat in my little kitchen with my Bible, journal, and coffee, returning to one of the most familiar psalms (Psalm 23), and I pray for my family and extended family, thanking God for his faithfulness and his comfort and strength.

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.

He makes me lie down in green pastures,

He leads me beside quiet waters

He refreshes my soul.

He guides me along the right paths

for his name's sake.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley,

I will fear no evil.

For you are with me;

your rod and your staff,

they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me,

In the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil;

My cup overflows.

*Surely your goodness and love will follow me

All the days of my life,

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord

Forever.

*The last verse is one my mother spoke over me 25 years ago, before I knew anything of faith, and I loved the sound of it - that good things could possibly follow me all the days of my life - I liked it so much, in fact, that I had to get a Bible to read it for myself. Those few words were the beginning steps of where I walk today.

365.101

2011-11-12T10:52:00.002-04:00

This was captured on one of my lunchtime walks this week. Interesting use of a mirror - not sure if it was there for a reason or just for a momentarily resting spot. Regardless, it made for a good set up of an unusual perspective with the reflection in both the glass and the mirror.

365.100

2011-11-11T08:11:00.001-04:00

Silence

365.99

2011-11-10T06:51:00.007-04:00

(left -my husband's great uncle, Henry Wooldridge 1894 - 1997 at age 23 just after returning from the battle of Vimy Ridge WWI (1917)

Today's post is in honour of Remembrance Day. May we never forget.

shan't
take

for granted

freedom

that wasn't

free
eighty years

later

still hear

the bombs

feel the

muck of

the trenches

and mourn

the loss

of friends

boys really

i was

old before my

time

365.97

2011-11-09T06:47:00.000-04:00

Quote from Robert Brault that I found amusing. (No, I don't own a GPS.)

It finally happened. I got the GPS lady so confused, she said, "In one-quarter mile, make a legal stop and ask directions."

365.96

2011-11-08T06:25:00.003-04:00

This is what I was reading/focusing on this morning:

1 Jn 4:4 You dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

Stop right now and ask yourself a couple of questions (for realsies): who am I? Who could I be? Maybe we need to "know that we know" today....maybe it is a day to simply ruminate (meditate, ponder, contemplate) on the words found in the link provided.

Maybe.

It truly is a new day.

365.95

2011-11-07T07:17:00.004-04:00

Don was taking a picture of me because I was taking a picture of him.

Which makes me wonder...how many times do we do things because we are influenced by the example of others? As I listened to all of the stories of the past 40 years at church yesterday, (in between tears) I thought of all the people - the two generations behind us that have laid the foundation for where we walk today.

Vision casting, seeking, application, hard work and effort of so many. For what? Has it mattered?

I suppose it depends on where your perspective lies and what you determine "matters."

If it lies in bum numbers in the pews, wealth, buildings, accolades, and the amount of programs there are, then maybe we have not been so successful.

But if it lies in people deeply committed to the "know that we know" vision, unity walking, attempting to live Sundays all week long, inviting/including others, and building structure for a generation of people who are yet far off then I think we have been successful.

A day for taking stock. A time to glance behind and acknowledge and thank those who have poured their lives into what many of them would not see today. It is also a time of affirming that we are on solid footing.

Lots of years ago, I thought we would journey this road and then get to an arrival point of sorts. My experience has been that we turn a corner and instead of seeing the end of the road, I see another turn. And like little kids sitting in the back of a big old 1960's car (with no seatbelts, I might add) we ask, "are we there yet?" Only to hear, "patience, just stay on the road and keep going."

Do you know what the reward is for good work? No, haha, it is not rest.

It is more work.

Once again it is time to put our heads down, roll up our sleeves, and continue on with the task we have been given because there are harvest fields all around us - and the realty is, if there are no containers for proper and healthy storage, the harvest rots in the field.

Come hell or high water, there she be: Second wind for the next leg of the journey.

365.94

2011-11-05T07:52:00.001-03:00

When it snows, ain't it thrilling,
Though your nose gets a chilling.....

That's the view on my front step this a.m. Nope, it ain't near so exciting as when I was ten. But it is our official ACTS OF KINDNESS DAY. What are you going to do? http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=283292375023828 Check it :) and have a most happy day.

365.93

2011-11-04T06:39:00.006-03:00

hands full

stuff

that don't
matter nohow

yearning

waiting

dreaming

with

hands

too full

of yesterday
gotta

turn 'em

over and

let go

receive

for giving

today

365.92

2011-11-03T09:46:00.001-03:00

I like the colours and the subject of this photo - it is always so neat to observe and listen to those who are musically inclined, even though I do not play any kind of instrument I sure appreciate those that do!

365.91

2011-11-02T05:57:00.003-03:00

planting

sowing

reaping

a time for

everything

under the sun

the question

what are

you planting

tomatoes can't

grow from carrot seeds

don'tcha know

Gal 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for in the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

365.90

2011-11-01T06:22:00.009-03:00

Chowder for supper. My experiment this morning is to make one loaf of bread* before work and see if I have the time to do so without feeling overly rushed. It took me 3 minutes to mix the bread, knead it a couple of times and put it in a dish to rise. My goal is to have it in the oven at 7:10 because I leave for work between 7:30-7:40 a.m. It could be pushing it a bit but I will see.

I wanted to make the loaf of bread to go with the chowder I am also preparing for supper. As I pulled all the spices out of the cupboard I (don't measure) threw a bit of this and a bit of that into the pot. Basil, thyme, celery seed, chives, parsley, Morton's seasoning....God brought to my mind the simple analogy that each spice is fine on its own; each one has unique characteristics and brings much to the pot. But put them together and the flavours meld and make something good; even better.

Allow those spices to heat up, work together, and give them time to blend and the end result is success. A good thought for life, relationships, and our need to give and take. I need others who bring a different perspective to my walk and others need me because of what I add to their journey.

Different is OK.

Gal 5:23 And the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, goodness. ~~But don't go overboard.~~ H~~old a grudge.~~ ~~Gossip.~~ Oops, you know those are all wrong and produce bad fruit...here is the way it should read: Against these things there is no law.

Awesome! Sometimes I get tired of following the rules.

Thank you Lord for each person I am going to come in contact with today, and for each you have put in my life. When I am busy on the outside, slow me down on the inside so that I can listen beyond what is spoken and truly care about/for others; maybe share a kind word, a bit of encouragement. Help me bring good things to your table today. Amen.

*OK, didn't really work - not enough time. I left it on the counter to bake when I get home. I might try mixing up a loaf at night and leaving it raise overnight...hmmm, I like the thought of something working while I (hopefully) sleep :)

365.89

2011-10-31T06:21:00.006-03:00

A great day Saturday! I went to the Holland College football game to snap a few pictures. This is, what I think, a pretty cool image of the reflection caught in the end piece of one of the band member. Then downtown for a stroll and a latte at Timothy's. Sigh. I love mini vacations.

Mini vacations, for me, are stress busters.

Wondering how to deal with stress? Here are some tips.

1. Learn how to say no. If you have to stand in a mirror and practice, do it. Have a piece of paper next to your phone that reads, "Let me think about that - I will call you back and let you know." Read it aloud when someone calls you and catches you off guard. If you are always saying yes to everything that is asked of you; you may be robbing someone else of the opportunity to learn or to succeed. Teach and equip others how to do things and let them at it. A shared work load is much easier to bear.

2. Try to avoid people and situations that you know will be a stress. Ok, well sometimes that cannot be avoided. If you know beforehand that you are likely going to feel stress, you can mentally and emotionally prepare for it. Realize you are a) aware of the situation b) it is for a specific amount of time, and c) you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.

3. Use stress buster techniques. Breath deeply. Pray. Listen to Bible verses or songs that will bring an undercurrent of peace. Talk to a friend. Exercise. Go for a walk. Journal your feelings. Drink more water. Get enough sleep. Stop stress eating - it will make you feel worse in the long run. Sugar and carbs are typically what we go for when we look for comfort food. They are not your friends. Look after you, because if you don't it is only a matter of time before you cannot look after others.

4. Manage your time - try not to leave everything until the last moment.

5. Look at the big picture. Likely you are at a difficult point. Attempt to take a step back (see #3) and look at your circumstances overall. Sometimes when we are too close to the situation it feels overwhelming.

6. Focus on the good stuff. You control what you think about. If you dwell on the negative it will impact you and your actions and stress levels. Find things to be thankful for and dwell on them. It will be a chore by times, but this does work!

7. Learn to forgive others and yourself. You cannot change the past but you can change the present and the future. Start fresh and work on letting go of things you cannot control or change - this has much to do with what you are thinking.

8. Think about what you are thinking about. Go to that place of anxiety and try to figure out what the anxiety/stress is all about- sometimes simply recognizing the cause can help you deal with it more effectively.

9. Go easy on others and yourself. Give yourself time to look after you but do not be so self focused that you spend your time navel gazing. There is a whole world out there! Sometimes the best thing you can do for you is to help someone else.

10. It is ok to get help. We are not created to be independent - contrary to what the world tells you. We need each other...sometimes we need the help of our doctors...and sometimes we simply need a shoulder to cry on. Use whatever resources you need to cope. Everyone needs community and resources and believe it or not - you don't have them all, all the time.

Isaiah 30:29 He (God) gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

365.88

2011-10-29T08:45:00.006-03:00

I woke up today contemplating tipping points. What are the things in one's life that moves them to act one way or another? Many years ago, I heard the song "I Did it My Way" sung at a funeral and remember feeling intense sorrow at the message everyone sitting in the service would have understood. Added to the pain of loss was the accompanying sorrow of a life lived out as its own worst enemy.

What is the tipping point in how we process the volumes of information, words spoken to us, about us, others' actions (or lack of)? Some choose/lean toward light, kindness, philanthropy, and compassion in order to make a difference in their oikos (their local community) or in a larger context, affecting people all over the world in a positive way.

Others choose/lean toward, selfishness, anger, fear, escape, "to each his own" attitude and spend a lifetime gathering stuff and trying to get ahead - often to the detriment of themselves and others, making a difference in their oikos (their local community) or in a larger context, affecting people all over the world in a negative way.

Why? Genetics? Faith? (or lack thereof), Upbringing?

I have also thought of that song to gauge my "regret" barometer. It is a good reminder for me not to speak what I know without a doubt I am going to have to apologize for later. Bah. Those words might feel really good in the moment but they taste terrible when you have to eat them. Thankfully, I have few regrets (well, I have two: Alyssa I regret that you did not go to England in your last year of high school, and Mr. Hennessy, I will forever regret the words of compassion I had clear opportunity to share with you. I am sorry that I allowed that moment to pass which robbed you of an opportunity to experience kindness from a stranger).

I don't have any conclusions really, I am sure that genetics, faith, and how we are raised are all factors - but it does make me wonder today if we, you and I, how much our lives and choices could be tipping points in others' lives? And what are we tipping toward?

Something to think about.

Ecc 10:12 Words from the mouth of the wise are gracious, but fools are consumed with their own lips.

365.87

2011-10-28T06:59:00.002-03:00

I love a good bargain. It feels great to get something way beyond the value of the ten dollar bill you just handed over to the cashier doesn't it? Now, how about a REAL bargain?

$10 to change one life for 10 years.

Yup, it's true. Go to http://thewaterproject.org/ and check out the facts. The Water Project is a not for profit organization totally sold out to provide clean drinking water for those who are desperate for it. You can even join up on a project and track its progress. Now that's a bargain!

Matthew 25:40 The king will reply, "truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."

365.86

2011-10-27T06:40:00.000-03:00

Does anyone else do their dishes in front of a window and then have to drop everything (well, not literally - although one might think so because I am constantly busting dishes) to capture the view?

P.S. if you click on the picture it will open bigger in a new window....

365.85

2011-10-26T06:18:00.007-03:00

Genesis 1:16 God made two great lights - the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars.

Let's chat about just one of those stars: Sirius. The surface of Sirius, the brightest star we know of, is 17,000 degrees Fahrenheit and is located about 8.6 light years away from us (a light year is merely 6 trillion miles) and is roughly 2 times the size of the sun (which happens to be 1,287,000 km larger than our earth).

In the verse above, "He also made the stars" is written almost as an afterthought. No biggie. Now go back and re-read that last paragraph so it will sink in a bit just how massive and fierce the star Sirius truly is.

It is startling and life changing to realize that the awesome (I mean terrifying, over the top, incomprehensible, awesome) God I choose to serve, who held the dust of the earth in his hands and who spoke into existence fiery, gigantic stars, yes, that God, in love and gentleness whispers, "come child, spend time in my presence." To think that he is concerned with my thoughts, my walk, my actions and wants to hang out with me. The privilege!

And then I, amazingly, in my ignorance and audacity - I tell him how things should go, remind him that there are a few promises yet to be fulfilled, and worry about things I have no control over.

Spontaneously and immediately, the wise word of my old childhood friend pops into my consciousness, (yes, Tigger), "Ridicarus!"

Proverbs 3:6 In all your ways, submit to him and he will make your paths straight.

Duly noted.

365.84

2011-10-25T06:42:00.000-03:00

I don't know who created this, it was on display on a sidewalk downtown. I think it was neat that even though the artist knew this creation wouldn't last any longer than the next heavy rain, he/she still put forth time and effort using beautiful, vibrant chalks. Interestingly, I noted that people respected that effort by walking around it and not on it.

Many who create seldom do so for the applause of others - it is for them, simply a form of communication.

365.83

2011-10-24T07:05:00.004-03:00

Closing one door often opens another.

Are you tired of feeling like you are in a rut and see nothing but muck around you...or even worse, you are starting to like the muck?

Well then it is Chronos (ancient word for choice timing) time to climb out of the rut and entertain CHANGE.

Cut your losses. Some things just are. Take stock, evaluate your current path, and adjust your coordinates. Walking a parallel path to the preferred one that God has for you will bring you to a totally different place than the one meant for you. Make sure you are on the right road - every now and then we need to look up and check the map to see if we are truly on track.

Hobbies - explore something new - where you have to go out and meet new people in your community. What interests you? Find a like-minded group. The Buzz and local ads have lots of stuff advertised. Photography has been a nice diversion from the mundane :)

Anchor yourself in the things you know (that you KNOW) are true.

Next. Yesterday is past. Unforgiveness will not change the past and lingering bitterness simply repels others. Today is a new day. Things CAN be different. Starting. Right. Now.

Get into good habits that will help you feel good about you. Really, how loooong do you want to put yourself down or feel terrible about you because you are doing or not doing something you know that is beneficial? No it isn't easy - but it is doable.

Endeavor to keep going. It will always be a temptation to go back to the comfort of the muck. Recognize it will be quite likely, especially as you step out of your comfort zone, that you will feel like returning is the only or the easiest option, but you can't trust feelings. (See note above on anchor). Feelings continually distort the truth, sabotage today, and steal from tomorrow.

365.82

2011-10-22T08:52:00.008-03:00

Will you love me today as you did back then

Still hold my hand even when

The morning has passed it's later in day

Wrinkles have come hair's all grey

Passion with comfort love without end

Will you love me today as you did back then

365.81

2011-10-21T07:08:00.001-03:00

A horse is a horse of course, of course and no one can talk to a horse of course unless the horse is Mr. Ed. Did you know that Mr. Ed even did commercials? Here's one for the Studebaker.

365.80

2011-10-20T06:57:00.002-03:00

The premise of Dear Photograph is that you take an old picture and fit it into today's surroundings. It is a neat site and going through old photographs and comparing to today is a fun little exercise.

Both of these are of our girls...our Blondie had a penchant for boots and had a path worn out under the swing set which is now long gone. The trees behind her are obviously about 20 feet high now compared to the puny 2-3 foot things they were when the original picture was taken. Proof positive that time marches on and stand still for no one.

The mushroom style haircut is another reminder of days past. As soon as I started baking, Alyssa would haul over the chair to the counter to help Mommy in the kitchen.

People always told me that the season of having little people about would pass quickly - and in the moment you hear them - but you truly don't understand how fast children grow up until you witness it first hand.

Ecc 3:1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens....

365.79

2011-10-19T06:06:00.008-03:00

Really. Who wouldn't want a stuffed lobster to cuddle up with in the evenings? Or at least hang from your rear view mirror (see the little ones at the top). At 50% off you could have one of each :)

No disrespect meant, but when I see items like this I do wonder at the wealth/poverty statistics around the world. Much of modern society struggles to put food (good or otherwise) on the table; in the US alone, one in six are having difficulty feeding their families, I didn't come across the percentage in Canada but I assume it is similar. Breakfast programs are needed, food banks are experiencing record numbers of people of all ages using their services. There is desperate need everywhere.

And I sigh.

Ok, ok, buy the stuffed lobster if you must - but direct a few dollars to the Horn of Africa will you. Or drop off a bag or two of groceries to your local food bank. (The door is open early in the mornings, you could pop off a bag before work ;) Maybe, send a cheque to a school's breakfast program. If your child uses the program and you can afford to give back either in food, money, or time...or if your child doesn't use the program and you can afford to give either in food, money, or time...you get the picture. Have a happy day - and be sure to give thanks for what you do have. I will too.

365.78

2011-10-18T06:07:00.012-03:00

YOUR city, office, work space, drive to work, coffee shop line up, grocery store, school - A random act of kindness can be done ANYWHERE, you don't have to be a member of our or any church, on PEI, or even in our country!

Are you ready? In honour of the Sherwood Church of the Nazarene's 40th anniversary, we are celebrating by making a difference. Join us on November 5, 2011, a day set aside for the Act of Kindness Challenge. Put your thinking cap on and come up with an unique way to brighten someone else's day.

Circle the date in red on your calendar or set your alarm on your iPhone to beep the day before and the day of. I value integrity and honesty in a big way, but in this one circumstance (only), I urge you to cheat! Don't wait til November 5; as the commercials say, just do it. Or make this a regular habit, it doesn't have to cost money - it can be as simple as sincerely thanking someone for doing their job, holding a door open, letting someone else go ahead of you.....

Involve your kids. Talk to them about kindness. As Dr. Barb said to me years ago, "Gloria, kindness and generosity are traits that are taught." I have never forgotten that statement - and I have found it to be true.

Feel really small in a big world? Tired? Discouraged? Then determine today to watch for an opportunity to show kindness. Because: a) You typically feel better when you help another and b) You CAN and you do make a difference. Don't believe me? Try it everyday for a week or a month and you'll see that at the very least, it makes a difference in you.

Think about how many lives would be influenced with all that goodwill and positive energy if each one reached one....or two, or ten!

A random act of kindness toward another is equal to a splash of cool refreshing water on a hot summer's day.

365.77

2011-10-17T06:09:00.003-03:00

I wish

For a day, or a few where

I could return

To the problems of childhood

When all I had to contend with was

Tying one end of the skipping rope to the light pole

Because there was just my sister and I

The dilemma of which book to choose

On our Friday night jaunts to K-Mart

But alas, we grew up

And so did our stuff, mostly good

Skipping ropes and children's books were replaced

By obligation, expectation, and responsibility

Our daughters and sons take us for granted

Just like we did then

They won't understand that privilege

Either

For a very long time

1Cor 13:11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became an adult, I put the ways of childhood behind me.

365.76

2011-10-15T08:12:00.000-03:00

Do you ever go downtown and simply look up?

365.75

2011-10-14T06:01:00.002-03:00

Sometimes I forget how broken the world really is....

(My 17 year old daughter had this on her facebook page last week and I have thought a lot about it ever since...)

365.74

2011-10-13T06:35:00.001-03:00

We used to watch the Gold Cup & Saucer Parade every year in front of this green house on Euston Street. My uncle Keith would be riding the police motorcycle and we would all be waving frantically at him as he rode by. Afterward, we would stop at Foster's Ice Cream (that is now a bed and breakfast) on the way home to Churchill Avenue.

I still remember opening the door of the ice cream parlour, it was always cooler than outside, (must have been air conditioned although that would be something I wouldn't have understood) and I can almost hear the jingle of the bell as the door opened. A husband and wife, maybe in their 50's or 60's would typically be behind the counter to take our order. Glass jars lined up on the counter with candy of all shapes and colours. Two for a penny I think.

It was pretty special to go to Fosters. As kids, (we lived there until I was six) we were allowed to go to Odette's by ourselves, which was only a house away but not to Fosters, as it was around the corner and across the street.

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2011-10-12T05:36:00.001-03:00

I could imagine this picture supersized (only time this word is used in a good way IMHO) and brightening up a whole wall somewhere - in an office or along a corridor. Amazing, the shades of colour in this flower - but then I discover it is more than the colour, it is the shape or the actual design that is beauty personified...because when the colour is removed it is still stunning.

Interestingly, science has reveled that the universe is not only enlarging but it is also speeding up. Maybe the older you get, time passing more quickly is not just an age thing - it is a reality. Who knew? Well, people have been saying it for years but there has been no proof up til a very short time ago.

It just might be even more important to stop and smell the flowers. Or in this case, the dahlias.

365.72

2011-10-11T05:51:00.002-03:00

Dear God,
tonight as I stand outside on a beautiful evening, I look to the sky and I realize once again that you are so big (you held the dust of the earth in your hands and placed the stars in the sky by name) and I am wonderfully reminded that ultimately, you are still in control, and that nothing takes you by surprise.

You give us so much choice/freewill that at times I wish there were no such things and that the world would be ordered and perfect; free from pain, disease, and strife. Yet, I get it, no choice would not truly be love. So in the midst of life as usual, can you please wrap your merciful arms around your children and give them an extra bit of a nudge today, maybe in their circumstances, or through a word of encouragement, maybe through an act of kindness and care from another, just to remind each one how much you love them - absolutely and unconditionally.
Love,
Me

Psalm 8:1,3-4 Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name on all the earth! You have set your glory in the heavens. When I consider your heavens and the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?

365.71

2011-10-10T08:50:00.000-03:00

Happy Thanksgiving :) This is one of the 1000 pound + pumpkins on display at Vessey's Seeds on Saturday. The Great Pumpkin Weigh Off contest.

365.70

2011-10-08T08:15:00.003-03:00

My husband thinks this picture is a TOB (see earlier post for definition). but me? Not so much - until recently. He can fix or build anything and in his downtime, he tinkers on tractors, machines, stuff. It has been a running commentary for a very long time (on my part) that we only really need one of these - and that they are not lawn ornaments. The response is that "one pushes snow, one gathers grass, one blows snow, one was dad's...."

I was lamenting to a friend about them all being lined up in the yard and what it must look like to others (yes there have been people stop to ask if they were for sale. "Ummm, no.") Her response changed my line of thinking. "But those tractors are a part of who Gingher is. When I drive in and see all his stuff, I know he isn't far away. Gloria, if they weren't here, then that would mean he isn't either."

Immediately, it came to mind the challenges families close to us have been through the past few years and how much sadness there is in sickness and failing health, and I felt soundly admonished. And rightly so.

The tractors stay, regardless of who might think what. Their appearance when I enter the driveway means that life is as usual in the Wooldridge household - and that, is a TOB.

365.69

2011-10-07T06:46:00.007-03:00

We were at Macy's and JC Penny in Bangor last weekend and already the dazzle of Christmas is being unpacked. It isn't really the shiny and new that grabs my attention, it is the old,vintage things, it's the scuff marks, the flaking bits of colour wearing off of the Christmas ornaments that, to me, add up to character - they've been places.
So have we.
There is something to be said about doing the hard work of coming to a place of peace in evaluating the past and then navigating your way around the memories in order to pick out the bits of good stuff. Hang on to those bits and then march them forward toward the promise of what is and what will be.

Our Christmas tree is typically a smorgasbord of vintage baubles, old things reclaimed and reused, passed from one to the next, signalling the obvious - that everything we have here is simply borrowed.

It is only October and that means there is lots of time to think about doing some things different this year so that Christmas is meaningful - and so you can capture the true joy of the season.

Downsize. Really, what do we need? Set a limit and stick to it - think quality rather than quantity.

Make a difference by:
*purchasing a chicken or a goat in a remote village in someone's honour that will help a family on the other side of the world. (This was one of the BEST gifts I have ever received!)
*slip extra $ to a single mom
*purchase a few grocery cards and hand them out to someone who could use them
*buy a cup of coffee for the guy behind you in the Tim's lineup
*give an extravagant tip in a Christmas card to the paper delivery, sanitation drivers, waiter/waitress
*leave the room better than when you entered
*laugh
*love others unconditionally
*put aside stuff that really doesn't matter nohow
*forgive others
*forgive yourself

Do whatever shopping you need to do early and stay away from the stores. Take a break - every ornament doesn't have to be out, cookies and breads and treats can be made in moderation, every gift doesn't have to be wrapped to the nth degree. And then...Sit down and firmly tell yourself, "Self, I will not get carried away this year and be exhausted because of all the doing - this year, I am determined to spend enough time in prayer and reflection until I get to the place of being so that my family has fewer moments of stress, more moments of healthy interaction, and good memories to take with them into the new year."

Luke 2:8-11 And there were shepherds living out in the fields keeping watch over their flocks by night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them. "Do not be afraid, I bring you good news that will cause joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Saviour has been born to you; He is the messiah, the Lord."

365.68

2011-10-06T06:31:00.006-03:00

October it is. This fall fella was hanging around Jewell's Country Market. It is the last few days for the market before it closes (annual 40% off sale happening now). The last several years, more than any other weather sign, the closing of JCM signals the change from sunny, meandering, summer days to the crisp, cooler ones of fall as both the girls have worked there several seasons.
We always enjoy stories of favourite customers who regularly pop in for ice cream or to pick up a few things, the locals often; the annual visitors, yearly.
The girls' schedules change and I know it will soon be time to get out the winter apparel and I intuitively want to stock up on good books to read in the evenings, knowing that it is a short break for me and come January I will taking another two courses....I think I have nine left to take. After all that - and a few more steps in the process I will be "Rev." I am thinking it will feel like a good accomplishment although I do not expect huge changes in my current path. (Blessed are the plodders)

Thank you Lord that our girls have had the good experience to work at JCM and have had lots of opportunity to interact with others. They have gained valuable experience of how a business works, how to navigate relationships, manage work responsibilities and prioritize, and how to make customers feel welcome and valued. All great life lessons that will last much longer than a summer job.

365.67

2011-10-05T06:12:00.008-03:00

A TOB (thing of beauty) is whatever object, idea, experience, or notion you deem beautiful. It's all up to you.

Today my TOB will be my white board in my office. In honour of Thanksgiving just around the corner, today I am going to practice the art (yes, it is a beautiful art) of thankfulness. I will set my iPhone at one hour intervals and when it beeps, I will go to my white board and write between 1-5 aspects of my life I am thankful for.

Why?

a) Because a thankful heart always finds something to be thankful for.

b) Because this practice is part of who I am.

c) Because I momentarily forgot.

d) Because now I remember.

So I will start off the day with five easy ones in particular order:

1. I am thankful that I am a happier, more content, appreciative person with God than I ever would be without him. Perfect? Ha! Hardly. (See c) above)

2. I am thankful I am healthy and can get up each day to a clean slate. It's a new day.

3. I am extremely thankful for a husband of 27 years who I have not spent near enough years with.

4 I am thankful for girls that have matured into lovely young women who respect themselves, others, and who are continuing to learn to question, think, explore, and be who they are created to be.

5. I am thankful for my mom and a good friend or two whom I can be (brutally) honest with - and (haha!) who can be (brutally) honest with me.

Ready, set....go!

365.66

2011-10-04T06:18:00.004-03:00

I do wonder. Why would someone take the time to paint each door a different colour when the buildings themselves are just in fair shape? It is like saying "come on in, the door is painted shiny and fresh - what really matters, you know, is first impressions.

OK, maybe not the intention of the person who held the paint brush.

Yes, first impressions are important, thank you to whoever coined that phrase, but don't stop there - it is second, and third, and fourth etc. impressions that matter in the long run. Are you balanced and consistent? All around us, in every area of life we see those who start the race strong but the reality is, few finish strong.

Some things (relationships, jobs, activities) look great at first glance and we tend to jump in with both feet, giving little thought to anything except that (fill in the blank) looks so much better than what I have or what I am doing right here.

But then, time passes and, uh oh, once you get past the front door, reality sets in and you see the situation for what it really is. There are holes in the walls, the roof leaks, and it is drafty.

Maybe you could be back to where you started. Ouch.

Maybe you could be further back than where you started.

Lesson? Look long and hard when you are making big changes and evaluate the situation from all sides (but not to the point of paralysis), listen to the still small voice of God, those you trust, and don't trample over red flags in your hurry to get to where you are going. Then...truthfully answer this question, "Self, does this change benefit me AND others?" (There is much wisdom in the words: at the very least, do no harm). If all lines up and the change seems good - go for it and don't look back. No regrets; be blessed.

Else, wait for the right thing, not the next thing - because it sure is a waste of time standing at the bus stop waiting for a train.

Prov 3:13 Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding.

365.65

2011-10-03T06:19:00.001-03:00

A beautiful shade of purple surrounded by countless shades of green. If you ask a colour scientist we are told that we can, in fact discriminate a difference in color/wavelength of about 2mm at the middle of the colour spectrum. The total number of colours we can discriminate is a bit vague: "Millions".

If you take a second look you see a star in the middle...and I suspect if you view this flower from any angle you would still see a star. Neat!

Luke 12:27 "Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labour or spin. Yet, I tell you, not even Soloman in all his spendour was dressed like one of these."

365.64

2011-10-01T08:28:00.002-03:00

Today I realized that it's not so much that I am scared I will lose my girls...it's that they might lose me. Please someone put a Global Positioning System on me ;) I do wonder why some people have great direction ability while others don't.

365.63

2011-09-30T05:36:00.000-03:00

I have a word for you today. A good word. A true word. Are you ready? There are millions, no billions of people in the world today but the really neat thing is that there is no one just like you. You are unique. Beautifully and wonderfully created in God's image. You are you; and your value isn't dependent on the stuff you do (or don't).

Are you walking in balance in all areas of life? Are you setting aside life and in-depth relationships in order to continually be in front? Have you got time to give to yourself and to others? Climbing the highest mountain, achieving the biggest goals, pleasing everyone all the time and getting everything right and perfect every time has nothing, n-o-t-h-i-n-g to do with your intrinsic value. The world, maybe family, maybe friends, will tell you differently. If you don't settle once and for all, your value according to what God says, then the murmuring chorus in the background of life - a sound like crickets chirping on a summer's eve, will continuously echo "strive, strive, strive." It is only you who can silence them.

What is lasting?
What do you value?
What would you die for?
And maybe even more importantly...
What. or who, are you living for?

Just askin'

365.62

2011-09-29T05:52:00.002-03:00

Spools of beautiful jewel-coloured thread. These conjure up the image of women from another era, sitting around a quilting frame sharing stories, joy, heartaches and life in general with each other. The beautiful art of friendship, much like the art of sewing, is increasingly becoming vague and muddied in a society that places great emphasis on the success of one (I did it!) as opposed to embracing the values of a loving community where loyalty and integrity are commonalities rather than exceptions. (Standing up and confronting wrong on behalf of others, placing the needs of others before your own, generosity that sacrificially costs the giver, doing the right thing - regardless of the outcome, helping others succeed, empowering those around you).

It is truly worth it to move up and ahead at the expense of others? Rationalizing and justifying work for a time, but the stark reality is, no matter where you go, you have to take you with you.

365.61

2011-09-28T06:26:00.004-03:00

This is a bike that my mom won (30+ years ago). She entered a contest on CFCY radio - you had to write one sentence and explain why you felt you should get a brand new CCM bike. She wrote something to the effect, "I am 40 years old and have never owned my own bicycle." Obviously, someone felt that should change and she then rode the bike around our neighbourhood.

I captured this picture last year on a quiet and still hoarfrost morning before leaving for work. There was no colouring changes etc., this was basically out of my Nikon, cropped. I love that pictures tell stories.

365.60

2011-09-27T06:06:00.000-03:00

I have gone a few times over the summer months to the Lily Pond on Lily Pond Drive at the Experimental Farm looking for a great picture. I haven't quite got it yet but I will try again hopefully before they are gone. There is something about a beautiful flower sprouting from murky waters that I find intriguing. Sometimes in the muck of life beauty emerges - then again, who is to say it isn't because of the muck they emerge?

God doesn't say "give thanks for all circumstances" which is how many people often misquote that verse - but he does admonish us to give thanks in all circumstances. Sometimes you just have to look through murky waters to find it. But seekers always find.

Yep, there is always something to be thankful for - even when we feel circumstances are way over our head, they are still under still God's feet. And that - is beautiful.

365.59

2011-09-26T06:05:00.000-03:00

Smile Trish :)

365.58

2011-09-24T09:17:00.000-03:00

You don't see this much anymore....

365.57

2011-09-23T06:17:00.001-03:00

A busy day today following the heels of a very hectic week.

But.

This morning I am going to well enjoy the Gold Coast Blend X-tra Bold Starbucks coffee I purchased with a SB gift certificate. Because I can. Sweet! Money can buy coffee, but it can't buy the peace that goes with it as I sit at my kitchen table this a.m.

What are other things money can't buy?

365.56

2011-09-22T06:03:00.004-03:00

a glimpse

of ick

the beauty revealed

is that ick

admits

truth to me
and sheds

light on what I

hold firm

365.55

2011-09-21T05:54:00.007-03:00

There it is...gone.

re·flec·tion [ri-flek-shuhn]

1. an image; representation; counterpart.

2. a fixing of the thoughts on something; careful consideration.

3. a thought occurring in consideration or meditation.

Proverbs 27:19 As water reflects the face, so one's life reflects the heart.

365.54

2011-09-20T06:29:00.013-03:00

Music or noise?

Sometimes we are way too busy. Even if not physically, we can still fall prey to being too busy in our thoughts. Life around us can be like a machine, people and things moving about, interacting and communicating. There is a beauty about it when it is properly oiled and maintained and all those intricate parts work together to "sing" and is music to the machinist. But what if there are pieces not working so well or a piece out of sync? Everything is ultimately affected and that song is translated into a repetitive, grating noise and we find ourselves stressed and agitated.

Stop.

Just stop.

When is the last time you simply stopped and experienced silence? No computer, phone, music, or TV in the background, no chatting or texting others. We have become a society that is connected at all times, afraid to be silent. It is hard work to be still - but being still is a discipline that we must plan and practice.

Sometimes we have to be powered down to receive much needed maintenance. Silence, stillness, and rest. They will do you the world of good so that you can do good in the world.

(P.S. if you are ever having trouble finding a quiet spot - head over to St. Dunstan's Basilica with your Bible and journal - it is open weekdays and you can just go and sit and enjoy the beauty of silence - it has to be one of the most quiet places in Charlottetown.)

Psalm 65:7 You silence the roaring waves and the noisy shouts of the nations.

365.53

2011-09-19T05:58:00.000-03:00

What do you see when you look at me

Mirror, mirror on the wall

Who among us is fairest of all

Raise your voice what did you say

I'll come back another day

Good morning Monday

365.52

2011-09-18T07:42:00.000-03:00

I was watching the young people at the Skateboard area at Victoria Park and asked if I could take a few pictures. This guy was off the ground more than he was on it. Regardless of how nimble they are or how much energy they have, I don't ever, as the song goes, "wish I was eighteen again."

365.51

2011-09-17T07:17:00.001-03:00

I like that it takes a second glance to notice what I think is quite special about this picture. My thought today is that there are times we come to conclusions based on a first impression or based on what others may have spoken. Is that fair? Nooo. If I didn't take a second look at this view, I wouldn't have noticed the very cool reflection of the tip of the little red fishing shack in a shallow puddle of rainwater - and I am the one who would have missed out.

Lord, thank you for the reminder that you ordain my circumstances - and that you are continually calling me to care for each one that you place in my path. Nudge me to take a second look for the uniqueness and beauty you have placed in everything and everyone you have created.

365.50

2011-09-16T06:21:00.002-03:00

It was a very busy and somewhat stressful day, but at 4:45 yesterday, my time belonged to Baby Lily. This laugh of delight was brought out by her momma dancing behind me. Lily, you made my week :)

Psalm 119:103 Your promises are sweet to me.

365.49

2011-09-15T05:55:00.000-03:00

This was taken Saturday also...interesting how shooting at an unusual angle coupled with a black and white treatment can make this old Gothic style church look positively menacing. It reminds me of a book that might start with, "It was a dark and stormy night...." Sure goes to show you that you can create lots of mood with photos. As I was taking this picture I noticed a huge wedding party on the street walking toward the Claddagh Room - if only I was closer!